Designers Should Get Out (More)

Inspiration is everywhere, as I’ve talked about before. The wise designer gets out and about as much as possible. Luckily, to get inspiration, you don’t have to go to exotic, foreign climes. Inspiration lurks on your very doorstep.

Part of my daily routine is taking the Furry Empress (our savage attack labrador) for a walk. Luckily, where I live in Torquay there are several woods and clifftop walks in close proximity. Getting out into nature is a doodle.

The coastline around here has given me much inspiration over the years. For example, this scene—for me—perfectly captures the feel and look of the Lonely Coast:

There’s nothing earth-shattering about this photo, but to me it screams of lonely cliffs, isolated coves and trackless forests. I can imagine nefarious smugglers sneaking ashore in isolated coves. I can imagine strange, foul things creeping through trackless forests. I can imagine danger-filled adventures. That’s the Lonely Coast in a nutshell!

Could I have designed the Lonely Coast without such inspiration? Sure. But could I see and imagine it so easily? No.

So, if you are struggling to get some design done, go out for a walk. Clear your head, and get some inspiration.