Wow, home design is not easy. I’ve been back and forth to World Market four times this week trying to decide on some wall plaques. I’ve been to Crate & Barrel three times to drool over some soft leather chairs, and I’ve been on and off the internet looking for those same soft leather chairs at a better price (note: so far, no luck; I think you get what you pay for when it comes to leather).
I am not complaining, though. My husband was teasing me this evening that worrying over home decor is a pretty indulgent set of worries to have. He’s right, but I am finding that making a house a home does require some trouble.
I thought I would make a list of some of the things I’ve learned recently that might help others.
- I always worried I was too boring when it came to decor, but I don’t think that way anymore. When I get home from work, I want to be comfortable and relaxed, not challenged. I agree with designer Michael Smith who writes in his new book, Houses: “When I’m designing a living room, I naturally want to put a sofa against a wall and two chairs opposite it. Some designers might find that boring. The reality is, it’s soothing. Most people prefer it that way.”
- I use accent pieces to add flair. Here is where I let my creativity shine. A zebra-toned throw or a sequined pillow add novelty and fun without over-taxing my mind. Accent pieces and accent paint color can also be easily changed.
- I like World Market, Pier 1, and Ikea for small things. For larger items like furniture, I think they can be too trendy and I don’t like the quality.
- For furniture, I tend to prefer smaller boutique-like stores over large showrooms. For example, I’ve found better service and more interesting design at Deer Park’s Crate & Barrel than Woodfield’s Macy’s.
- I’ve gotten some great deals on-line, but I’ve learned to do my homework. I bought a beautiful leather chair from Target.com, but it was about 3/4 the size I had imagined it would be. A sense of proportion is key. I’ve also noticed it is difficult to get a true sense of color on-line.
- I recommend resisting the temptation to buy trinkets. Some people can pull this off, but they are the exception. The first thing a Realtor or stager edits out of a home going up for sale is all the little clutter that lines mantles, end tables, shelves and counter-tops. That being said, some artifacts have sentimental value or do add to a room. For example, I love family photos, and I love seeing other people’s family pictures, too.
The magazines I’m reading lately to help me with my little projects are House Beautiful and Metropolitan Home. Metropolitan Home is way edgier than I would naturally go in my home, but reading it keeps me thinking and opens up my mind to new design ideas. House Beautiful is full of great pictures, practical commentary, and it presents a variety of styles, which again stretches my mind.
