Here are some ideas to help you on your way:

• Go to your local library and search for books on houses of all different styles and designs. If possible, include a book on building construction.

• While you are at the library (or bookshop) try to find an art book, preferably with lots of colour prints in it, which covers different styles of art as well.

• Check your newsagent or friends’ coffee tables for house, kitchen or home style magazines.

• Keep an eye out for any pictures that catch your eye, a photo of a garden or bookshelf or a window - anything!

• Buy a big scrap book, some pencils and glue.

• Keep the scrap book open and try to have everyone make a contribution at this first meeting.

• Go through the art book with some post-its and ask everyone to mark the paintings they like. This will give you an idea of how similar or different your aesthetic interests really are.

• Make some notes of ideas which appeal to everyone.

• Write a list of points that you like and/or don’t like about the house you are currently living in.

• Write down things that you’d like to have in a new house.

Have fun and don’t be afraid to think outside the square.