When working with a client I find that many people want immediate gratification and they want the project completed all at once and as quickly as possible.
There can usually be a time frame due to an upcoming holiday or other family gathering. As we all seem to procrastinate, the project can be rushed in order to meet the deadline!
Whether rushed or not, I like to discuss with my clients the idea of taking their time when it comes to certain details. Sometimes it’s wiser to find a place holder to put into a spot, whether it is furniture, art, or any decor item. Maybe use something you already have to complete a project until something better comes along, or until the budget allows.
Larger items like furniture and rugs can be expensive to ship from a far away place. Artwork can be easier to ship. I like to suggest that artwork, whether it hangs on the wall or a decor item that sits on a surface, can be curated as you travel near or far.
There always seems to be art shows that pop up as I travel to smaller towns. It is fun to purchase art that has a fun story to it. It can bring back memories of your travels and create a good story as you entertain your family and friends in your home.
Maybe you have a friend who is an artist, whether a sculptor or a painter. I love hanging artwork in my home that my friends have created!
Make sure to make notes of dimensions and take pictures of the areas you are considering so that as you travel you have the tools to make the right decisions.
Don’t forget that if you group smaller items, they can make a larger impact.
I like to create gallery walls in clients’ homes.
So many people have large walls that need to be considered. Start out small and grow the project over years. Maybe incorporate pictures from the trips where you purchased the decor.
Don’t be afraid to ask the shop owner if they can ship. In vacation friendly towns, most shop owners are used to shipping across the world.
Take a look at the clay soldiers I purchased in China several years ago. I have a long hallway in my home and I knew I wanted something for the walls.
I decided to wait until the right thing presented itself. When I saw these statues, I knew exactly where I could place them.
Even in a far away country, the shop owner made the shipping process easy and very inexpensive!
Although the hall is narrow, I was able to create niches that recessed into the wall so that very little would protrude into the walkway. Now my hall has a lot of personality and I love to tell my friends of my visit to China and seeing the unearthed clay soldiers of Xian!
Design can be so much more than just aesthetics. It can represent the story and travels of your life well lived!
