How to Create a Mood Board and Find Inspiration for Your Interior Design Project
Embarking on a new design project is exciting, and the best way to set yourself up for success is to come prepared with a clear vision.
A well-thought-out mood board can help translate your ideas into something tangible and cohesive, serving as a guiding light throughout the design process. Here’s how to create your own mood board and gather inspiration on Pinterest and Instagram to maximize your collaboration with an interior designer.
Step 1: Start with Your Vision
Before diving into specifics, take a moment to reflect on how you want your space to feel and function. Ask yourself these questions:
What is the purpose of the space?
How do I want to feel when I’m in this room? (e.g., calm, energized, luxurious, playful)
Are there specific colors, materials, or design styles I’m naturally drawn to?
Answering these questions will help you narrow your focus and guide your search for inspiration.
Step 2: Dive into Pinterest
Pinterest is a goldmine of design inspiration. To get the most out of it:
Search Smart: Start with broad terms like “mid-century modern living room” or “neutral color palettes” and refine your searches as you go.
Create Boards: Organize your ideas into specific boards for each room or theme (e.g., “Kitchen Inspiration” or “Cozy Textures”).
Be Specific: Pin images that resonate with you—not just ones you think look good. Note what draws you in: Is it the light fixture? The wall color? The furniture arrangement?
Use the Lens Tool: Pinterest’s lens tool allows you to take a photo of something you love and find visually similar images for inspiration.
Step 3: Explore Instagram
Instagram offers a more dynamic way to connect with real-life designs and designers. Here’s how to make the most of it:
Follow Designers and Brands: Search hashtags like #InteriorInspo, #ModernDesign, or #CoastalLiving to find creators and companies that align with your taste.
Save Posts: Use Instagram’s “Save” feature to organize your favorite posts into collections. You can create collections for furniture, layouts, color schemes, and more.
Engage: DM images you admire to your designer!
Step 4: Build Your Mood Board
Now that you’ve gathered your inspiration, it’s time to put it all together:
Choose a Platform: Use digital tools like Canva, Milanote, or Photoshop for a polished look. If you prefer a tactile approach, print your favorite images and create a physical board. Ask your designer to help you with this process!
Curate Thoughtfully: Include a mix of textures, colors, furniture styles, and decor elements that inspire you. Arrange them in a way that feels cohesive and tells a story.
Highlight Priorities: If certain pieces or styles are non-negotiable, make them stand out on your board. For example, circle your dream sofa or favorite color palette.
An example of a materials palette!
Step 5: Share with Your Designer
When you’re ready to collaborate with your designer, your mood board will:
Help communicate your vision clearly.
Save time by narrowing down options.
Ensure your designer understands your preferences and priorities.
Be open to their feedback; a designer’s expertise can elevate your vision to new heights while staying true to your aesthetic.
Final Tips for Success
Edit Ruthlessly: Avoid cluttering your mood board with too many ideas. Focus on the ones that truly speak to you.
Trust Your Instincts: Choose images that evoke an emotional connection, even if you’re not entirely sure why.
Stay Open-Minded: Inspiration is a starting point, not a final decision. Allow space for your designer’s input and creativity.
Creating a mood board is not only fun but also an empowering first step in bringing your dream space to life. By taking the time to gather inspiration and organize your ideas, you’ll be well-prepared to partner with an interior designer and turn your vision into reality.
Check out our mood board templates to help get you started!
A well-thought-out mood board can help translate your ideas into something tangible and cohesive, serving as a guiding light throughout the design process.
We've put together a couple of mood board templates in Canva to help get you started. Add the templates to your Canva account, and then drag and drop your inspiration images into the placeholders. (Yes, these work with the free version of Canva.) Enjoy!
