Decorating in real life vs in the Media

We all know how many decorating and renovating shows there are on the array of media available - filled with drama, unrealistic budgets, fast turnarounds and filled with fashionable items.

The issue with portraying renovating and decorating this way, despite it not being very realistic, is the focus on the end result being a big reveal, rather than the journey to get there. It is possible to cut out the hysterics, and enjoy the process.

The design component is a seen as a scribbled plan on a piece of paper, list made, and off to the shops. In real life, to get a fabulous design result takes plenty of time and effort. Much more care and attention should be taken to review existing pieces that might be used in a space, make a practical and rational plan for what should go where and then take a seriously considered search to place and source those items. There may be customised pieces to be ordered, made and shipped. Add into the mix essential consideration for the use of colour, texture, light and art. Even a seasoned designer with supplier knowledge at their fingertips will not achieve this in a day.

The reveal does not take into account the many and varied tasks to undergo - administration of orders, checking, chasing, problem solving, as well as being the ultimate diplomat dealing with clients (if you are a designer), trades and suppliers. All of this takes time and should not be a deterrent but rather an unrushed part of the design process.

Considerable time and effort, over many years, enables designers knowledge of suppliers and their products but also time to build solid relationships, which in the event of a problem, can result in fixes so that our client has as smooth an experience as possible.

As I see it, media is often doing a disservice to design professionals and consumers alike in setting unrealistic expectations and driving people to expect to be stressed and overwhelmed by designing a comfortable and beautiful home.