The Importance of Mood Boards

Homely Design Studios Explains the Purpose of Moodboards

Welcome to the Homely Design Studios blog. Homely Design Studios is an online interior design company who enjoys bringing a bold, layered and tailored design to every client needs. Here we share with you the many reasons why mood boards are worth the extra time and why it is a tried and tested timesaving creative tool. Read on to find out more.

It has happened to everyone. You spend countless hours producing a beautiful, pixel-perfect design only to have it rejected by the client because it isn’t what they were envisioning in their mind’s eye. It’s the dreaded “we know it when we see it” curse.

As designers, we often think we have all the answers. But even if you are talented and your work is top-notch it's easy to misread client expectations. Words fail miserably when trying to translate design concepts. Remember,  what one person calls “edgy” another might see as chaotic. Visuals communicate things that words cannot. A picture is worth a thousand words, and mood boards are a great tool to create that picture for your client.

What exactly is a mood board? Mood boards or inspiration boards are used in a variety of disciplines. You’ve no doubt seen them used for Interior Design. They are also used frequently in Fashion, web design, etc. In essence, they are a compilation of inspirational elements used by every designer to flesh out ideas at the beginning of a design project. Think of it as rapid visual prototyping.

How do I create one?

The first thing you should do is evaluate the project. The direction you choose will be based on the time allotted, personal work habits and most importantly your client’s personality.


What are the benefits?

Faster production. With a visual guide created and a clear vision of where you’re headed it’s much easier to jump right into the visual process. There is no blank-canvas syndrome to deal with and no more time wasting on a concept they might not like. Best of all, there are no big surprises!

Smoother client buy-in. Additionally, mood boards make it clear that you are listening to them and considering their input. They can also gain insight into the thinking behind your decisions, dispelling the all-too-common notion that designers choose everything on a whim.

Less frustration, more fun (yay). Mood boards are so much fun, they hardly feel like work. They also keep revision cycles to a minimum, something every designer can appreciate.

Examples

Now that you know why they’re useful, it’s time to make them a part of your process. Not quite ready to jump in? Check out a few examples we've made to get your creative juices flowing.

 a black & white patio mood board for a fabulous
client who adores monochromatic schemes so much.

Here we wanted to create that luxe feels while
blending in both rustic and modern design style.

Our take on masculine glam. The client wants  luxury aesthetics creating
"awe" feeling when entering the reception area.

Try using mood boards in your next project. They’re a fun, efficient and effective way to communicate big design ideas.

Have you used mood boards or are you considering them? Please share your comments below.

Homely Design Studio believes that design improves a person's quality of life and happiness. It is more than just pieces of furniture, finishing, and colors. It's curating a space that is specially tailored to the client's style, needs, and personality. Contact Homely Design Studios today to discuss your interior decorating project. Our friendly & creative team are always ready to help you. Like the official Homely Design Studios page for more mood board ideas of all kinds. Show your support online and follow Homely Design Studios design journey on Instagram here.

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