The ultimate interior design checklist for homeowners, home stagers, and vacation rental hosts. Designing a space you love doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re refreshing your home, preparing a property for sale, or setting up a stylish vacation rental, these 10 simple steps will help you create a cohesive, beautiful, and functional space — one that truly reflects your style and serves your needs.

1. Start with a Deep Clean and Declutter

Before you buy a single item, give your home a clean slate. Clear out clutter, deep clean every room, and create organized zones. This simple step instantly makes any space feel larger, calmer, and more welcoming.

2. Determine Your Starting Point

If you're tackling more than one room, identify which space you’ll start with first. Focus on the area that will make the biggest impact — like an entryway, living room, or bedroom — to set the tone and keep the project manageable.

3. Gather Inspiration from Pinterest and Beyond

Use Pinterest, Instagram, and design blogs to spark your imagination. Pin colors, furniture styles, layouts, and decor that resonate with you. As you collect ideas, consider how you want the space to feel: cozy, modern, relaxed, or elegant?

4. Choose 1–2 Anchor Pieces to Build Around

Embrace your creativity and let your unique style shine through by selecting 1 or 2 items that truly resonate with you. These pieces will serve as the foundation for your design, allowing you to craft a space that is a true reflection of your personality and taste. Whether it's a statement artwork, a cozy rug, or a vintage lamp, let these items inspire and guide you as you curate a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and deeply personal. Let your design journey begin with these beloved items as your starting point, and watch as your space transforms into a sanctuary that brings you joy and comfort. 

5. Measure Everything Before You Shop

Before diving into the excitement of shopping, it's crucial to take a moment to measure. Whether it's for a new piece of furniture or a home improvement project, ensuring accurate measurements will save you time, money, and potential headaches in the long run. So, grab that measuring tape, jot down the dimensions, and let's set the foundation for a successful and stress-free shopping experience!

6. Create a Wishlist Across Your Favorite Stores

Stay organized by creating a wish list on different websites for stores you enjoy shopping at. Imagine the convenience of having all your favorite items saved in one place, ready for you to buy when you’re ready. Remember to shop around, read reviews, and consider not only price but durability and comfort.

7. Make a Mood Board to Visualize Your Design

 When creating a mood board, it is essential to gather picture snips and place them together on a Word document or print them out and create a vision board. Make sure to take note of the dimensions and price. By organizing your ideas this way, you can effectively curate a collection that speaks to your unique style and vision. Remember, it's important to have a clear plan in place before purchasing any items to ensure that every piece you add to your board contributes cohesively to the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve.

8. Test Paint Samples in Natural Light

When it comes to choosing the ideal paint color for your space, there are several crucial factors to consider. It's essential to think about the natural lighting in the room, the specific mood you wish to evoke, and how the chosen color will harmonize with the existing design elements. Remember to purchase paint samples and test them in various areas of your home, observing how they appear under different lighting conditions throughout the day. This process ensures that you make a well-informed decision that perfectly suits your space.

9. Pause and Reflect Before You Purchase

Once your design plan is in place, give yourself a few days to sit with it. Revisit your mood board, share your ideas with friends or family, and make sure everything still feels right. Reflection helps avoid impulse buys and keeps your design aligned with your goals.

10. Shop Big Pieces First, Then Layer In Style

Put Your Plan Into Action

When it comes to decorating your space, start by selecting the larger items first to establish a solid foundation. Once you have your key pieces in place, you can then add accent pieces to elevate and personalize the overall look. By following this approach, you'll create a well-balanced and visually appealing space that truly reflects your style and personality.

Designing your dream home is about more than just aesthetics — it’s about creating a space that feels like you. Whether you’re staging to sell, designing for daily living, or setting up the perfect vacation rental, following a clear, intentional process makes all the difference.

If you’re ready to take the next step, explore more tips on the Simply Practical Blog, and follow up on social media, @simplypracticalsolutions.