Architect's Mind Map

Work Smarter...Not Harder

Great article i came across today! If you an architect or an interior designer, this is a great read!

Plan Your Work

1. Understand the difference between “effective” and “efficient”. Effective is doing the right things. Efficient is doing things in the right manner. Both are important, but you need to be doing the right things first before you can do them in the right manner. Combine the two and you’ll be really working smarter, not harder.

2. Remember the 80/20 principle. Eighty percent of your results come from just twenty percent of your effort. Focus on results, not work. More hours does not always equal more results.

3. Outline your process. Yes, every project is unique, but the tasks and milestones in each project are pretty similar. Outlining the process helps you see where to eliminate steps or make the process more efficient. Mind Maps are a great tool for this exercise.

Decorating Tips from Olivia Palermo

1. Create a photo wall with your shared black-and-white images. Print a variety of shots in different shapes and sizes—family photos, landscape shots, architectural imagery—and frame them with simple, complementary frames.
2. Don’t leave any space untouched. Decorate shelves, tables, and other surfaces with unique objects that the two of you have collected over the years, from travels, flea markets, and more. What is important to remember is, if you like it, it works!
3. Create a cozy environment with scented candles. Strategically place candles in the living room, bedrooms, and bathrooms for a cozy feel. Incorporate scents like orange blossom and jasmine, which aren’t overly feminine.
4. Bring both of your personalities into the home with coffee-table books. Choose books that represent your interests, travels, and passions. You can even create your own photo books on Shutterfly that incorporate photos from your special events or trips for an added personal touch.
Did you have a hard time decorating when you and your guy moved in together?
The apartment my husband and I first shared was so small {I moved into his studio! } that I was more concerned about fitting my shoes than creating a cozy vibe!