January 28, 2021
Creating a Home with Personality
Beauty attracts the eye but personality captures the heart. I think the honesty of this sentiment extends far beyond the personal application. As a designer, I like considering it as a mantra for a holistic approach to interior design. I have been in many exquisitely beatutiful homes that, for whatever reason, seemed to lack a sense of character and charm. Identifying that absence and how to remedy it can be quite a task.
I believe this is a challenge we all face when working to achieve a balanced space so I thought it might be worth sharing a few tips I've learned along the way to ensure you are creating a space both aesthetically pleasing and rich in personality.
1. Resist going overboard on any specific trend.
This is the most common and most expensive mistake people make in their homes. The outcome tends to be a space that lacks depth and dates itself quickly leaving the owner with the inevitable cost of a future makeover. Be mindful to incorporate elements of trends with more classic pieces that can be the staples within your overall design.
2. Don't be afraid to be bold
Many clients are terrified to commit to color, let alone make a statement in their homes, for fear they will tire of the pattern or color over time. This can lead to an austere and monotonous look in their homes with an overabundance of neutrals and one note selections. Giving your space that wow factor can be as simple as incorporating the right artwork and accent pieces. These elements can be rotated in and out of the space seasonally or replaced for a quick transformation. Even identifying an accent wall for wallpaper is a relatively low commitment as it can be easily changed in the future.
3. Mix in some old with the new
Don't make the mistake of buying everything new. Nothing adds character to a space like the charm of a storied piece within your home. Whether you are incorporating a Gustavian clock or heirloom armoire, when blended with a fresh modern aesthetic, the look achieved is rich and grounding.
4. Don't forget to incorporate elements of yourself
Your home should ultimately be a reflection of your life and values. Don't avoid the addition of personal elements that will make your house feel like home. Photography from your own travels, personal collections, and family objects handed down are all fantastic ways to infuse your space with character and personality.
As with most things in life, there is no one right answer but I hope these tips can serve as a recipe for creating a harmonious space that is both beautiful and soulful.
By Amanda Dayton