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Inspiration
3 min read
Before you dive into product selections and planning layouts, it’s essential to understand the style you’re aiming to achieve in your renovation. Whether you're starting from scratch or refreshing an existing space, building a clear design vision will give your project direction—and make decision-making a whole lot easier.
Step 1: Understand Your Style
After endlessly scrolling through Pinterest, Instagram, or your favourite design blogs, take a moment to gather 5–10 images that truly inspire you. These don’t need to be limited to interior shots—they could include photography, art, fashion, or nature. Focus on images that evoke the mood, tone, or textures you want to bring into your home.
What you’re looking for are common themes. You might notice recurring colours, materials, shapes, or even feelings across your saved images. These patterns are key to identifying your interior style and can form the foundation of a mood board for your project.
Need a little extra help? Try our style quiz on the website—it’s a great starting point for narrowing down your aesthetic.
Step 2: Start Collecting Samples
With your inspiration images in hand, begin searching for real-life samples that align with the look and feel you're after. These could include:
Tile samples (you can easily order these from our website or via the link in bio)
- ABI Interiors tapware finishes
- Paint swatches
- Flooring or carpet options
- Stone or benchtop samples
- Soft furnishings and textiles
- Accessories or hardware
This is where your vision starts becoming tangible. Sampling is essential—it allows you to touch, see, and compare how materials interact in real light, alongside each other. It also opens up the opportunity to trial bolder colours or finishes you might not have considered from online images alone.
Step 3: Get Creative and Have Fun
Now for the fun part—curating your flat lay!
Find a clear surface with plenty of natural light and begin arranging your samples. Lay them out and take a step back. What works together? What stands out (for the wrong reasons)? Eliminate anything that feels off-track and start building layers that add dimension and depth.
A few tips for a successful flat lay:
- Limit it to 10 elements or less to avoid visual clutter
- Focus on balance and contrast—think texture vs smooth, matte vs gloss
- Refer back to your inspiration images to stay aligned with your vision
- Snap a photo from above for easy reference later
Most importantly—enjoy the process. This is your chance to explore, refine, and get excited about your new space.
Creating a cohesive design vision doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it can (and should!) be one of the most enjoyable parts of your renovation journey. By gathering inspiration, collecting samples, and curating a flat lay, you're well on your way to a space that reflects your personal style.
Need a second opinion or expert guidance? Our experienced design consultants are here to help. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining your selections, book a design consultation or chat with our team in-store—we’ll help you bring your ideas to life with confidence.
Published on 18th June 2025
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