For many of my b-school classmates, this is an exciting time of new jobs, new cities and new digs – they're setting up a permanent home for the first time in two years. For them, the nomadic student life has come to a merciful end. Some, no doubt, will carry on the dorm inspired living that centers on the question "how can I make my 65-inch plasma/PlayStation/Wii console a focal point in my home?" Others are looking to create an equally personal expression of home by tackling some serious decorating. I've always believed in the high ROI of living well.
The stress associated with decorating can lead to a sort of decorating paralysis… or worse, purchases one ends up regretting in a few weeks or months. Before blowing a signing bonus at your local IKEA or Pottery Barn, I encourage nesters to seek inspiration and develop a plan before getting all starry eyed over that Hänstrūmgorg Sofa.
Apartment Therapy offers a daily record of stylish urban homes. The ideas are often practical, always chic and usually completed stretching a dime. Every week, AT features the best finds on Craigslist from coast-to-coast and every year holds the Smallest-Coolest Apartment contest, which I have vowed to win in 2011. Stay tuned.
Elle Décor just launched a room-by-room look book with all sorts of luxurious inspiration from homes of the likes of Tamara Mellon, Nacho Figueras, John Derian et al. I warn you, this site inspires odd questions: why paint when you can wallpaper… or cover your walls in fabric… or leather… or mother of pearl tiles? The look book will give you a sharp eye of what you want and need in a room before heading to Craigslist or the mall.
If you find the homes in the places above are bit tame for your taste, The Selby is in Your Place tracks the homes of artists and designers all over the world. While the design choices are far from practical, they can be quite inspiring. These folks live full-throttle in the world of creative ideas, which is reflected in their homes.
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