Please start with my first blog and work your way through them in order to better understand my Create A Home With Heart design strategy.. Click here and start from the beginning, I’ll see you back here soon xxx

To create a home that stands the test of time and truly resonates with you, it’s important to fill it with meaningful items. Don’t settle for a functional and visually appealing home – aim for something more. Strive for a way of living that brings you joy and fulfillment. Craft a sanctuary that reflects your personal story and imbue it with heart. Let the essence of your unique self shine through in every aspect of your interiors.

In summary, the strategy involves exploring your past, present and future, looking for colours, patterns, textures, materials and objects that you love, that you have a connection with, and that tell your story.

It’s crucial that you just let your brain be free. Focus on gathering and exploring; don’t think about how each element will inspire your home. That’s much later down the track. In a nutshell, just let yourself explore.

If you follow this strategy, I promise you’ll love your home in a way you could never have imagined.

Begin by exploring your personal history and identifying colours, patterns, textures, materials, and objects that hold special meaning or evoke fond memories.

Go through old photos, rummage through an old box or google search images that reflect past times. Think about the places you’ve lived or visited? What was your favourite sport or hobby? Are there any family heirlooms such as fabrics, objects, prints and furniture that mean something to you? What was your favourite piece of clothing and ask yourself why you loved it, was it the colour? texture? form? What flowers evoke fond memories from your past? What trees did you climb?

Growing up, there was this huge old oak tree at my primary school that we used to spend hours playing in and collecting acorns. Now, whenever I see an oak tree, I’m transported back to these fun times.

While not every memory from your past has a place in your life now, it’s worth looking into as it’s the foundation of your unique story. You may be surprised at the similarities between what you liked then and the things that you like now.

Let’s focus on the present. Take a moment to open your wardrobe and see if there are any clothes, jewellery or shoes that reflect your personal style. What are your current hobbies and interests? What are your preferred flowers or plants? What places do you enjoy visiting? Which tracks do you like to walk, which art gallery, city, book, play, local restaurant, artist or fashion designer do you prefer? What’s your current obsession?

Consider the environment of your home, including your surroundings and the community nearby. It’s more thrilling to explore outside than to spend time browsing the internet on your computer. Take a stroll in your backyard and the surrounding area, and if you pay attention, you’ll notice various patterns, hues, and textures.

It could be the colours on a label, the stitching detail on a garment, the dappled texture of shadow play on your fence, the shape of a leaf or the myriad of colours in a clump of seaweed.

The things you’re naturally drawn to are cues. Remember to take photos and when you’re home take a look through them.

When thinking about your story, don’t forget to consider your future aspirations. What excites you and where do you see yourself? Maybe you dream of living in the countryside, in which case, choose objects that reflect country living. Or perhaps you’re drawn to city life and want to surround yourself with urban reminders. Is there a hobby you’ve always wanted to pursue but haven’t had the chance?

Personally, I’ve always dreamed of visiting Africa and seeing the incredible animals and landscapes. That’s why I’m fond of animal prints and earthy tones that evoke this aspiration. I also envision my family owning a sailboat someday, so I’m drawn to materials and elements that speak of coastal living.

Whatever your dreams and aspirations may be, surrounding yourself with reminders of where you want to be can be both exciting and motivating.

Join me for my next blog where I show you how to keep track of the things you love so they’re ready to use and inspire your home interiors when you need them.

Click here to find out more about our design services.

Contact Auckland Interior Designer Hayley by heading over to the Strategy Session booking page.

AKA LOU

AUCKLAND INTERIOR DESIGNER