The Best Online Platforms for Finding Interior Design Inspiration
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Whether you're designing your first home, renovating a single room, or simply craving a fresh new look, finding interior design inspiration is often the first step. But with so many images and ideas floating around the internet, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
Fortunately, there are some standout platforms that consistently deliver high-quality, curated, and accessible design ideas. These online sources offer everything from mood boards and DIY tips to full room reveals by leading designers.
Here is a guide to the best online platforms for finding interior design inspiration—no matter your style, budget, or project scope.
1. Pinterest
Pinterest remains one of the most powerful tools for discovering and collecting design ideas. With millions of searchable images and curated boards, it is like a virtual pinboard for every room, mood, and aesthetic.
Why it works:
You can search by room, colour palette, furniture style, or even layout.
You can save and organise your favourite ideas into custom boards.
The visual format is ideal for spotting trends and getting quick inspiration.
How to use it well:
Be specific in your search terms, such as “Scandinavian living room ideas” or “small space kitchen layout.”
Follow interior designers, brands, or creators whose style you admire.
Use the “More like this” feature to expand your visual search.
Pinterest is perfect for everything from creating mood boards to planning full renovations. Follow me here!
2. Instagram
Instagram is a treasure trove of design inspiration. Interior designers, stylists, and home décor brands share daily content that ranges from professional projects to behind-the-scenes styling tips.
Why it works:
It provides real-time design updates from experts around the world.
You can explore using hashtags like #interiordesign, #homedecor, or niche ones like #modernfarmhouse or #Japandi.
Instagram Stories and Reels offer quick glimpses into styling, shopping finds, and room makeovers.
Pro tip:
Save posts to curated Collections to organise by room or style.
Follow influencers and design pages that align with your personal taste.
Instagram offers both aesthetic inspiration and a connection to the wider design community. Follow me here!
3. Houzz
Houzz is one of the most comprehensive platforms for home renovation and design. It is a hybrid between a design inspiration site, a directory of professionals, and a renovation planning tool.
Why it works:
Thousands of real-life project photos by professional designers and architects.
You can filter by style, room type, location, and budget.
It also provides access to product links and design services.
Ideal for:
Those planning a renovation or custom build.
Finding local professionals or browsing portfolios.
Getting ideas backed by expert execution.
Houzz combines function and inspiration, making it a great all-in-one resource.
4. YouTube
YouTube might not be the first platform that comes to mind for interior design, but it offers long-form inspiration and valuable insights into how spaces come together.
Popular content includes:
Home tours by designers and influencers.
DIY tutorials and renovation journeys.
Product reviews and styling tips.
Some noteworthy creators and channels:
Studio McGee
Mr. Kate
The Sorry Girls (Canada-based DIY and design)
House & Home (Canadian interiors and expert advice)
Why it stands out:
You can see how a space functions in real-time.
It feels more immersive than static photos.
Great for learning about the process behind the design.
YouTube helps you connect emotionally with a space—and understand how it works.
5. Design Blogs
Design blogs continue to be a valuable source of curated, insightful inspiration. Unlike social media, blogs often go deeper, offering context, advice, and product recommendations.
Blogs worth bookmarking:
Apartment Therapy – Practical tips, small space ideas, and real home tours.
Emily Henderson – Designer-led advice with a mix of renovation content and styling.
EyeSwoon by Athena Calderone – High-end design inspiration blending food, design, and lifestyle.
The Spruce – Accessible how-to guides and décor roundups.
Why blogs matter:
They are searchable and easier to revisit.
Posts often include source links and expert commentary.
They offer inspiration plus helpful design education.
Use blogs for both vision and execution—especially when making purchases or decisions.
6. Online Magazines and Publications
Digital versions of iconic design magazines bring professional-level inspiration to your screen. These are often filled with trend forecasts, editorial photoshoots, and interviews with top designers.
Top sites include:
Architectural Digest – Luxe spaces and celebrity homes.
Elle Decor – High-end design with a European flair.
House & Home – Canadian interiors with a local perspective.
Domino – Playful, trend-forward styling and DIYs.
Why they are useful:
Editorial photography is aspirational and high quality.
Trends and seasonal inspiration are updated regularly.
You gain insight into current movements in the design world.
These publications offer a polished, professional lens on interior design.
7. TikTok
TikTok is growing rapidly as a source of interior design inspiration, especially for younger audiences and budget-conscious decorators.
What to expect:
Quick before-and-after room reveals.
Budget DIY hacks.
Styling challenges and viral product finds.
Why it is different:
TikTok favours creativity and accessibility.
You get raw, real-life inspiration rather than polished perfection.
It is great for trendspotting and discovering small creators.
Tip: Use search terms like #DesignTok or #RoomMakeover to find curated content.
8. Online Retailers with Style Guides
Many furniture and home décor retailers now include lookbooks, style guides, and shoppable rooms directly on their websites.
Top examples:
IKEA – Layout ideas and multifunctional furniture inspiration.
CB2 and West Elm – Stylish room shots and trend-driven guides.
Wayfair – Style Finder quiz and curated inspiration by room.
Article – Minimalist layouts and Nordic aesthetics.
These platforms allow you to visualise products in a styled space and see what pieces work together.
Finding Your Own Style
With so many platforms to choose from, the key is to explore with intention. Instead of collecting thousands of random images, look for patterns in what you like.
Ask yourself:
What colours and textures am I drawn to?
Which layouts feel comfortable and functional?
Do I prefer clean lines or layered eclecticism?
By noticing your preferences across platforms, you will start to build a clearer vision of your own interior style.
Final Thoughts
Interior design inspiration is everywhere—but the best platforms make it easier to visualise, plan, and execute your vision. Whether you prefer the curated boards of Pinterest, the real-time updates of Instagram, or the in-depth advice from blogs, there is a space that suits your way of dreaming and designing.
The key is to focus, save your favourites, and then take the next step—whether that is hiring a designer, tackling a DIY project, or shopping for the right pieces.
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