Embarking on a decorating journey can be exciting, but it’s crucial not to overlook the process’s first and most essential step. Many individuals skip this step, only to find themselves in rooms that may look pretty but lack the desired atmosphere. In this new Polished Habitat Decorating Method series, we’ll delve into each step of the decorating process over the coming months. The goal is to empower you to create a space perfectly suits you and your family. Today, let’s focus on the often-neglected first step.

The Neglected First Step:

The first two steps in the decorating process are deceptively easy to skip. However, they are more critical than any other aspect along the way. Getting these initial steps right makes subsequent tasks easier and ensures your satisfaction with the final result. Today, we’re addressing step number one.

Decorating Step 1: The Two Essential Lists

This initial step requires only a pencil, a notebook, and your undivided attention.

List #1: Feeling

1. What emotions do you want to feel when you enter the room? (Energized, relaxed, airy/light, comforting/cocooned, cool/streamlined, warm/homey, formal or informal, etc.)

2. Consider the space’s social aspect. How do you want guests to feel when they enter?

3. Reflect on your favorite places and list a few reasons why you loved them.

4. Conversely, recall an uncomfortable experience in a room. What about the space that made you want to leave?

Remember, there are no right or wrong answers; it’s about creating a space that aligns with your feelings and preferences.

List #2: Function

1. How do you currently use the room? (Reading, TV, Exercise DVDs, Book Storage, Entertaining, etc.)

2. Are there items in the room that would be better suited elsewhere?

3. Are there additional functionalities you wish the room had?

4. Consider storage needs, seating requirements, and the needs of other family members who use the space.

Focusing on feelings and functionalities, spending, and achieving everything within budget.

The first step in decorating is often overlooked but proves to be the foundation for a successful outcome. Creating these two essential lists – one focusing on feelings and the other on functionalities – will set the stage for a room that looks good and feels right.