Today I am so delighted to present to you a guest post from Emma Welsh on one of my favorite topics-travel and design! Please read on for her wonderful insights!

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Discovering new people, cultures, and traditions are experiences that you can only find by traveling. The adventures can be inspiring, informative, and even life-changing. The challenging part about traveling is coming up with ways to keep the memories alive. Some attempt to bring home clothing, food, or souvenirs, but for interior designers, the most valuable thing we collect is inspiration. When you travel, observe the pops of color and the illustrious patterns. Pay attention to your surroundings and source design inspiration ideas to bring back home. Your home tells a story about your life and what better way to illustrate your story than to use elements from your travels.

While in Japan take in the unique elements of Zen philosophy that are present throughout the country. Zen is reflected in the natural elements and simple lines in Japanese art, architecture, and design. 

From the music from renowned composers like Bach and Beethoven to the architectural styling from the Bauhaus academy, German cultural influences have served as inspiration for centuries. Observe the use of steel in their decorative art and architecture to turn your home into the modern dwelling of your dreams.

If the complex patterns that are prevalent across Russia aren’t enough inspiration, look to the use of the color red in design and decor. Red is a powerful symbol in Russia. It represents decadence and honor and is woven throughout Russian architecture, traditional clothing, and decor.

Whether you fall in love with the tradition, hospitable locals, or expansive landscapes, Peru offers travelers a chance to experience one of the oldest civilizations. Take in the vivid colors of nature and handcrafted textiles and bring your inspiration home.

Experience Ethiopian culture at giant festivals such as Timket or Enkutatash. Partake in the celebrations and acquire woven baskets made with traditional techniques. If you can’t attend a festival, traditional Ethiopian objects can be found in marketplaces across the country.

Whether you collect Ethiopian baskets or Peruvian textiles, each geographic location has a unique culture made up of local art, cuisine, and traditions. Use these tips from Invaluable to bring back inspiration and tell the stories of your journeys and perhaps inspire new adventures down the road.

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*Special thanks to Emma Welsh for her guest post!

Emma Welsh is a writer at Invaluable.com, the world’s leading online marketplace for fine art, antiques and collectibles. You can see more of her and her colleagues’ work here