Hey, hey, hey. How y’all doing out there? Me? I’m hitting the ground running. I’ve got a growing list of projects to complete, and it’s a good place to be in right now. Regardless of how hard I’m working though, I still want to make sure I’m sharing you with you guys all things design inspo and info. As always, I’ve got some good stuff that I’m ready to drop in your direction, and since you’ve read the title, I’m sure you can guess what it is.

When it comes to interior design, I know a lot of us initially think a lot in terms of a great before and after. That’s to say that the focus is typically based in how a design looks, the parts that catch our eye. Now let’s keep it a hunny: we all enjoy a good after shot, but I want to talk a bit about the “more” that goes into a design. When we, as designers, pull together a space, we consider several different factors that are geared toward our clients. Those factors are determined by our client. Those factors are what I call value.

At times clients know what they value and are able to communicate that in some way, and sometimes our clients aren’t aware of what they value at all. That’s when, as designers, use our skills to determine what those things are. Either way, good or even great design is determined by value before all else. That value is you: what do you want in a space and what you need in a space. Consider some of these factors to help see how design is determined by value.

Storage Needs: Everyone needs some type of storage. What determines the type is what you’re looking to store. A researcher and avid reader? Bookshelves. And a library depending on how large your collection is. A crafter? Tons of storage boxes with easy to reach shelving. Fashion influencer? A closet fit for the gods. It’s about what’s most important. Let’s look at some more.

Circulation: Ok, it looks like a fancy word, but the concept is simple. Circulation is about how you get around. For instance, how do you envision moving around your kitchen to prep and cook your meals. When someone enters your home, where’s the first place they go? Right into the living room? In a defined or created entryway? Or how about this: how are you going to set up the new nursery or bedroom baby station so you don’t trip or stub your toe while going in for a 3am diaper change? Yes, consider that new mommies and daddies. I know it’s a lot of y’all.

Physical Health: Listen as someone who suffers from allergies, having the right materials in my space is crucial. There’s a lot that goes into the making of materials, so having pieces and linens that are natural and/or emit zero or low emissions is important. Do you or someone in your family suffer from back pain? Getting the proper armchair that provides the right amount of support is just as, if not more, important than how it looks for many.

Use Factors: How you intend to use a space helps us define what items need to be included in your design. Are you super social and into entertaining? You might want furniture that takes advantage of extra seating options. If you’re more of a homebody who likes curling up and laying around, you might get a deep sofa or super comfy chair and a half. Those applications are defined by your value.

Mental State: I’m considering mental state as opposed to mental health here because design can invoke a sense of calm or healing for your health, or it could absolutely be used to stimulate certain parts of your brain. Think about a doctor’s office. It’s usually simple in style with calming colors like blues and greens on the walls. On the other hand, you would walk into a space like a casino and be met with bright colors like reds and golds with lots of stimulating lights to get you excited.

Specialized Needs: Consider the family member who has to get around using a wheelchair. How does the space change to accommodate her? What happens when a child is diagnosed with autism? How the space looks and is used will need to be deeply explored and adjusted to help in creating a comfortable and familiar space. Not only that, but the elderly are provided with their own challenges, where simply getting in and out of the bathtub can be difficult. Targeted upgrades become the main focus for the space.

To put it simply, design is about intent, and intent is imbedded in design. But you can’t get intentional with design without first understanding the value. And the value is determined by you. So what I want you to do something for me. Instead of just looking at a room or space and wondering what new decor you should include, consider what value you want to place on your space. When you have that, you’ll be in better position to bring out the best in your space, especially if you enlist the help of a designer.

And that, folks, is it for today. Before you go, check out my Services page for all the services I’m offering, and hit that contact page to get started with your next project. And don’t forget to like, comment and subscribe to the page. See ya next time!