If you're stuck in a design rut and don't know where to turn for home inspiration, it can feel like you're falling through a never-ending rabbit hole of plain ideas. You may have tons of different aesthetics or looks that would work amazingly in your home — but narrowing it down to what you actually like can be tricky. This is especially true if you're stuck in an echo chamber of the same interior styles, unable to find out-of-the-box schemes.

Want to switch up your inspiration process and have the light-bulb moment you've been hoping for? Here are 10 places to look for interior design inspiration.

10 Ways To Get Inspired

Here are some of our personal decorator's favorite places to intentionally look for value-adding design ideas:

1. Pinterest

Whether you frequent Pinterest or have never dared to open the app, there's no denying the truth: Ideas can be found everywhere on this platform, no matter what you're looking for. Scroll through various accounts for general plans or make your search more personalized by looking up specific interior design looks.

2. Mood Boards

Whether you look at our personal decorator-created mood boards or find some online that match the look you're going for, these design blueprints can be great jumping-off points to get your creative juices flowing.

3. Home Magazines and Blogs

Why fix what isn't broken? Home magazines — and now online blogs — have delivered stunning and unique home ideas for decades. And the best part is, you can find several types of publications that focus on varying aesthetics. Say goodbye to scrolling through the same ideas recreated over and over again, and say hello to innovative projects.

4. Friends' Homes

A friend's recommendation almost always means more than anybody else's. That's because we trust our people's judgment calls, and their home is no different. If you have a similar style to your bestie, take a look through their home — with permission, of course — and discover what you do and don't like about the space. Consider it a showroom for your own home.

5. Showrooms and Stores

Speaking of showrooms, several stores have model rooms set up simply to inspire you and help you have that light-bulb moment you've been wanting.

6. TV and Streaming Shows

Some of the best design tips can be found in curated sets. Any design network will work, but don't be afraid to pay close attention to the rooms in your favorite shows. You never know when home decor inspiration will strike!

7. Museums and Travel

The world is big, vast and full of home design ideas, so pop into museums, cathedrals and historic buildings on your next vacation. Oftentimes, new cultures and experiences can provide the different styles you've been looking for.

8. Home Improvement and Design Apps

Need some quick design tips? The world is your oyster with a smartphone in hand. Download design apps created by trusted decorators and peruse options for your living space. You can also browse our portfolio for tons of breathtaking interior design ideas.

9. Local and Global Markets

While traveling is an amazing way to discover interior design ideas, you can also find the latest design trends right in your own city by stopping into local stores that showcase pieces from around the globe. This could include vintage furniture inspired by French architecture, modern art from a local designer or home decor made by expert craftsmen in India.

10. The Great Outdoors

Mother Nature could be considered a design enthusiast, with the ability to weave beautiful colors and materials together. For a literal breath of fresh air, take a step out of your front door and look around at the different hues and textures outside. This can be a great way to blend biophilic design into your home naturally.

Interior Design Decorating Rules To Live By

Now that you know where to pinpoint interior design inspiration, here are some best practices to guide your home projects:

• Start with a vision, not just a room: Define the overall mood and theme before choosing furniture or paint.
• Balance proportion and scale: Choose furniture and decor that match the room's size and ceiling height.
• Create a focal point: Every room should have a visual anchor (fireplace, statement art, accent wall).
• Layer lighting: Use a mix of ambient, task and accent lighting.
• Stick to a cohesive color palette: Use three to five complementary colors and repeat them throughout the space.
• Mix textures and materials: Balance smooth with rough, shiny with matte and soft with structured.
• Use the rule of thirds: Group decor in odd numbers (three or five) and arrange them in varied heights.

Partnering With a Professional: An Inspired Idea

When you work with a professional decorator, you don't have to worry about coming up with all the creative and jaw-dropping ideas — your partner will have them for you! All you have to do is tell the interior decorator what you like and what you want the home to look and feel like and they'll take it from there.

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