may want to make sure that the bathroom is emp-
ty when you photograph – yet another awkward
moment.) Use these images to create your dream
room and inspire you to make informed choices.
SURF THE WEB
A final source of inspiration for me is the inter-
net. Use search words that have come up in your
homework. “Chandelier,” “Upholstered chair,”
“Stores like…” As we all know, the Internet is an
enormous resource and is invaluable in getting
information. Not only will it help you find local
stores, often the online catalogs carry far more
items than can be shown in a retail space. Remem-
ber that chair you saw at a store and couldn’t af-
ford? The Internet has become so competitive that
almost any search item will come up with mul-
tiple suppliers. What’s more, larger retailers’ pho-
tos show rooms that are merchandised in a way
that can provide additional inspiration and give
you a sense of how things can be used together in
ways you may not have thought about. Restora-
tion Hardware and Pottery Barn have mastered
their online sites and re-invigorated store catalogs
as well. You almost need a bottle of wine to get
through Restoration Hardware’s 600-page tome.
Or perhaps that’s just me.
Whatever your approach to getting started, your
design file will save you a lot of work. Something
as simple as a picture to show a contractor, store
clerk or interior designer is the best way to com-
municate a concept. As you sift through the huge
number of ideas that you have accumulated while
doing your homework, you are getting an edu-
cation in interior design. I call this enlightened
choice. It brings you to a new level in understand-
ing design that will allow you to proceed with
confidence to create the dream that you envision.
And if you ever meet an interior designer, be sure
to invite them over. I’ve been known to work for
food. §
Based in Portland, Jonathan Hopp has worked as a residential in-
terior designer for over 25 years designing homes all over the U.S.
In 2011, he published Interior Bliss: How To Decorate Like A Pro
Without Breaking The Bank. A regular personality on Portland's
AM Northwest, Jonathan shares tips and trick of the trade to
create a home that will be a delight for years. jonathanhopp.
com Write him at JonthanH@JustOut.com
February 2013
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