A Journey of Design: An Interior Decorator’s Travel Experience

As an interior decorator, every trip I take is far more than just a break from daily routines—it’s a profound opportunity to discover new design inspirations that will transform the way I approach my work. Traveling opens up a world of fresh ideas and perspectives, which deeply influence how I design spaces, whether for a client or my own personal projects. Each destination I visit offers a treasure trove of design elements that may not be available in my immediate environment, and it’s in these places that I find the true magic of design.

When I step into a new culture, I’m immediately immersed in a sea of colors, textures, patterns, and layouts that tell unique stories about how people interact with their environment. Whether it’s the minimalist beauty of Scandinavian interiors, the ornate elegance of French palaces, or the vibrant warmth of Moroccan bazaars, each setting offers a different way of perceiving and experiencing space. These observations are more than just aesthetic pleasure—they shape the way I understand form, function, and emotion in design. The colors of a sunset over Santorini, the texture of the stone walls in an ancient Greek ruin, or the design of a handcrafted rug in Istanbul may seem like small details, but they offer endless possibilities for incorporating similar elements back into my work.

Travel also enhances my design perspective by teaching me to look beyond the surface. In Italy, I learned how to appreciate the delicate balance between old-world charm and modern style, where centuries-old architecture seamlessly blends with contemporary art. In Japan, I discovered the minimalist approach that values simplicity, serenity, and thoughtful organization. These principles encourage me to infuse my work with mindfulness, whether it’s in curating a more intentional, clutter-free home or carefully selecting pieces that serve both form and function.

During a recent trip to Italy, I found myself mesmerized by the rustic charm of Tuscan villas. The weathered stone walls, wooden beams, and earthy tones were a stark contrast to the sleek modernity I often work with, but I quickly realized how beautifully these textures could translate into contemporary designs. I imagined incorporating natural, weathered materials in city apartments to add warmth and authenticity, much like the cozy interiors I saw while sipping espresso in the heart of Florence.

Another memorable experience took me to Marrakech, where I was captivated by the interplay of vibrant colors, intricate tile work, and exotic textiles. The bold reds, oranges, and blues felt like a celebration of life and culture, sparking ideas for spaces where color and pattern dominate, but still with a sense of balance and harmony. The Moroccan concept of layering textures with rich, tactile materials also inspired me to experiment with layering in my designs, making spaces feel rich, inviting, and personal.

The beauty of travel for me, as an interior decorator, lies in discovering new aesthetics that transcend borders. The fusion of cultures, design principles, and materials has enriched my practice, allowing me to blend different elements into a unique narrative in every space I create. Each journey adds new layers to my design philosophy—proof that the world’s beauty and creativity can always inspire fresh ideas and innovative solutions in the world of interior design.

Moreover, the more I travel, the more I realize that design is not just about what you see, but how you feel in a space. It’s about how a place evokes emotion—whether it’s the calming influence of a Zen garden in Kyoto or the rustic comfort of a mountain lodge in the Swiss Alps. These experiences help me understand how certain elements—like lighting, texture, or color—can create an atmosphere of peace, energy, or excitement within a room. This emotional connection to space is something I strive to bring into every design I work on.

The blend of cultures, the diverse ways people live, and the innovative approaches to design I encounter on my travels constantly fuel my creativity. With each trip, I return not only with new ideas but with a renewed sense of purpose, eager to experiment and incorporate new influences into my designs. It’s not just about creating beautiful spaces; it’s about creating spaces that resonate with the people who live in them, that feel like a reflection of their personality and their experiences.

In essence, traveling allows me to step outside of my familiar design environment and embrace new ways of thinking, seeing, and creating. It broadens my design vocabulary, helping me evolve and continuously grow as an interior decorator. Each journey is an inspiring adventure that reminds me that the world is full of endless possibilities—possibilities that are waiting to be explored and woven into the spaces I design.

it’s an opportunity to gather new design inspiration. Traveling exposes me to diverse colors, textures, patterns, and architectural styles, each influencing how I approach design. Whether it’s the minimalist beauty of Scandinavian interiors or the vibrant warmth of Moroccan spaces, these experiences broaden my design perspective and deepen my understanding of how design can evoke emotions. By incorporating elements from different cultures and environments, I create more meaningful, personalized spaces for my clients. Traveling not only sparks creativity but also helps me grow as a decorator, enriching my work with fresh ideas and new ways of thinking. Every journey enhances my ability to create spaces that are both beautiful and functional, reflecting the diverse world around us.