If you have ever built a home, remodeled a home or even redecorated your home, you know how overwhelming it can to keep up with all of the information like paint colors and window measurements and fabric samples. My clients often ask me what is the best way to keep track of all this pertinent information and I think there are several good systems, it really depends on which one works best for you.
If I am taking on a large design job I like to use an accordion file. I label each tab with the name of the room like "living room" or "master bedroom" or by category for example "notes" or "photos." This system works well for me because I can keep all information in the pocket for each room (tear sheets of products, sketches, room dimensions, etc.) and I can carry the accordion folder with me to showrooms so I have everything I need at my fingertips.
If I am taking on a large design job I like to use an accordion file. I label each tab with the name of the room like "living room" or "master bedroom" or by category for example "notes" or "photos." This system works well for me because I can keep all information in the pocket for each room (tear sheets of products, sketches, room dimensions, etc.) and I can carry the accordion folder with me to showrooms so I have everything I need at my fingertips.
Another good system for organizing your redecorating project is a spiral notebook or sketch book. For example, you can attach photos of your living room sofa, notate the measurements and even paperclip the fabric swatch directly to the page. A notebook is also easy to carry around with you and you can make direct notes while on shopping excursions. If you want to have the information at hand but don't feel the need to be quite so organized, you can also keep all the information in a zippered pouch. Samples will fit nicely and all of your sizes and dimensions can simply be jotted on graph paper.
In order for any of these systems to work however, you must keep the information updated and easily accessible! I would recommend keeping it in your purse or your car. If you are out shopping and find an amazing handmade pillow and want to know if it will match your new bedding, you have the fabric swatch handy. Or if you finally find the perfect antique farm table but are not sure it will fit within the confines of your dining room, you can retrieve your file, notebook or pouch to look up your room's dimensions. Ta da! You have just avoided buying yet another piece of furniture that won't fit in your home!
~Images: 1) Unknown 2) Martha Stewart Good Things 3) Blueprint
