Creating the Look You Want
Making your home feel uniquely yours can be overwhelming. You walk into a home that seems all “finished” and “put together” only to go home and feel that you don’t have the skills or creativity to make yours look just as grand. Well, I say everyone has what it takes to personalize your home but most people either don’t enjoy it or they just don’t want to think about it because it’s not in their comfort zone. What my research has shown (that just makes me sound smart) is that my client’s always know what they do and don’t like when presented with options. They have a general idea in their mind of how they want their space to look but just can’t seem to see the whole picture and then put a plan in motion. So here are a few tips to getting started and then if all else fails - call your favorite friend who loves design!
Look around your home and find those treasured pieces that you love. Maybe it’s a piece of art, a vintage chair, a family heirloom or something as simple as a pillow that you absolutely love.
Now settle in with a cup of your favorite beverage and start looking at Pinterest or Houzz. Use the items that you found to start your search but don’t overthink what you decide to save. Eventually, you will start to see a pattern in your styles be it Modern, Scandinavian, Industrial, Farmhouse or Traditional. This will help guide your choices going forward.
Don’t get hung up on just one style. The uniqueness of your home comes when you blend styles and unexpected elements such as a rustic dining room table with a modern light fixture. There are no rules on what you can and can’t put in your home, but you do want to have a consistent style throughout and then add personality with a few eclectic finds here and there. If something speaks to you or makes you smile then incorporate that piece in your overall decor.
Take time to shop. Please don’t go to one store and pick out everything. It only makes your house look like a showroom, lacking personality. Instead, buy some of your larger pieces such as sofa, chairs and rug at one place but then take the time to go to some local shops or art galleries to find pieces that will really stand out.
Give it time. Creating an interesting and “finished” feel takes time and money. Don’t rush into anything just to check it off of the list, but rather pick up things here and there from places you have traveled or shops that inspire you. This will make your house feel more like your home and everywhere you look will bring you joy!