No matter what size project you’re planning on undertaking, whether it’s re-decorating a room or having a house built, it’s is ALWAYS important to have some idea of how you want the finished product to look.  Getting ideas from books, magazines, and the internet is a great start.  Not only do these images get you motivated to get that project accomplished…they also serve as visuals to keep you focused on your goal while aiding the trades people that will be assisting you with your design project.  I suggest organizing these images in a file drawer or in a notebook so they are all together when you need to reference them.  Another helpful step in pre-project planning is to talk to other people that have undergone similar design projects, this way you hear first hand what to expect.  If your project is an kitchen or bathroom go out to plumbing or appliance showrooms and physically see and touch faucets, sit in tubs, or compare the differences of ranges and refrigerators.  Ask the sales reps. lots of questions.  When shopping, remember functionality.  There’s no point in having a expensive “big brand name” oven if you can barely boil water.