Creating a beautiful home takes time
Beautiful homes that have lasting value often grow out of blending the old and new. I love to see family heirlooms and found treasures mixed with modern pieces. Harmony is created through relating colours, shapes and proportions rather than matching everything perfectly from a catalogue. Pieces that are you unique to you – even eccentric – add personality and ensure your home delights you and your guests.
A home that reflects you
Visiting a showroom and shopping the complete ‘look’ is a solution that will probably date quite quickly. So if you like a trend, consider if you can incorporate just a few pieces or colours .
Aim to fill the spaces in your home with pieces that compliment your lifestyle. Dining chairs should make you and your guests so comfortable you aren’t in a hurry to leave the table. You shouldn’t live in fear of dropping something on the floor. That corner of your house that has great light in the morning can be furnished so you can enjoy your coffee (or tea) there. That is not to neglect the visual aspect to your home, it’s just to say that the home has to ‘work’ as well as be beautiful.
Choose quality
Consider quality craftsmanship as a touchstone for everything you purchase – it will pay off in the long run. Antiques often represent good value in this regard. The trend for upcycling and recycling is a response to the cheap, throwaway nature of much of what is on offer today. In the future this blog is going explore some of my favourite elements that go in to creating beautiful homes that have lasting character.
Collecting and display
Lastly, do not neglect what is hanging on your walls. The way you hang and present your art can make a huge difference to how it is perceived and enjoyed. If you don’t own any art, starting a collection is not as hard (or as expensive) as it sounds. Mirrors, family photographs and sports memorabilia can also benefit from thoughtful presentation. The key is to apply some principles to harmonise them, and discretion in where you place them.
I hope this has set you thinking, and I look forward to sharing more ideas and tips in the coming weeks,
