I used to wing it—Pinterest here, a throw pillow there, and somehow expected my space to magically come together. 😅 Girl, the result? A hot mess of clashing colours and vibes that didn’t even feel like me.
Then I discovered moodboards. And listen—GAME. CHANGER. It was like giving my brain and budget a map. Creating a moodboard helped me move from “I kinda like this style” to “Omo, this is my dream space.” No more scatter-brained decor decisions. Just intentionality. Calm. Cohesion.
Whether you’re redecorating a corner or planning a full home makeover, this little visual planning tool is your secret weapon. Let me show you how.
What Is a Moodboard, Really?
Okay, think of a moodboard as a visual summary of your dream space. It’s where your colours, textures, furniture, and overall vibe live before you spend a single kobo. It could be digital (hello, Canva!) or good ol’ cut-and-paste from magazines.
Mine usually includes:
- Paint colours I’m considering
- A rug I saw on sale
- Pinterest inspo photos
- Furniture I’m eyeing
- Notes like “calm + coastal” or “rich, moody Lagos flat”
Having everything in one place helps you see your ideas, not just feel them in your head.
Why You Need One (Especially If You’re On a Budget)
One time, I bought a navy blue velvet chair. Stunning, yes. But when I got home, it clashed terribly with my deep grey walls. 😩 If I had checked my moodboard, I’d have known that this chair is drama; your home is peace.
Moodboards help you:
- Stay consistent with your style
- Save money by avoiding impulse buys
- Communicate your vision clearly if you’re hiring a designer
- Reduce decision fatigue (hello, 2025 goal!)
How to Make One (No Design Degree Needed!)
Here’s how I create mine:
- Pick a theme or vibe – Cozy farmhouse? Minimal Lagos chic? Afro-boho? Choose what speaks to you.
- Use tools like Canva, Pinterest, or Milanote – I use Canva most days because it’s drag and drop.
- Collect images – Screenshots from IG, Pinterest pins, screenshots from online shops like Jumia or H&M Home.
- Add colour swatches – Pick 2–3 dominant colours + 1 accent tone.
- Include notes – I write things like “needs to feel calm for night prayers” or “kid-friendly, but stylish.”
Real-Life Win: My Bedroom Makeover
I once made a moodboard for my bedroom when I was stuck between dusty peach and forest green. That board helped me see how forest green with rattan accents gave me more of the earthy, grounded vibe I wanted. And when I finished the space, I genuinely felt proud—not confused.
Plus, when my sister saw the moodboard, she sent me a link to a rattan pendant light on sale. If that’s not God-ordained design, I don’t know what is 😄
If you’ve been stuck in the “I kinda know what I want but not really” phase, moodboards are your best friend. They give your ideas shape, your space clarity, and your spirit peace. No more overwhelm. Just vibes. Just intentionality.
So, whether you’re designing your first apartment or refreshing your living room—start with a moodboard. Trust me, future-you will thank you.
Need help creating a moodboard to plan your next home refresh?
👉 send an email or join the email community for more home styling gems delivered to your inbox.
