I recently read the best article dealing with decorating style..."10 Odd, Yet Essential, Elements of Style" by Deborah Needleman, Editor in Chief of WSJ Magazine. (A Big Thanks to Janna Lufkin for the facebook post on this!)
I couldn't help but concur with so many of the points she was making...elements I had incorporated into my home and knew they worked for me...but I guess work for others too...
a few examples to illustrate a few of Ms. Needleman's points...
Element #1 - A little animal
There is indeed something about having some sort of inanimate creature in your space...my stuffed dog was picked up years ago at a yard sale...it badly needed a home so I obliged...he looks down over my worktable from among my design books...
Element #4 - An odd chair
Again, another yard sale find...I know it looks like it is ready to collapse under its own weight, but it is extremely sturdy...and extremely comfortable. I love the splashes of paint, the twisted wire repairs and the saw marks on the seat...it is indeed odd but perfect...
Element #8 - Decorative mirrors
A common element in many homes...a mirror does wonders to enhance whatever quality of light you have in your space. I opted for one that has wonderful peely paint and the advantage of dual hanging hardware on the back...so it can be hung vertical or horizontal...whatever decorating mood fits at the time...
Element # 10 - Some patina
This I have in spades...the color, texture and tone of patina speaks to my soul and infuses my home. I realize this look is not for everyone but a little bit of tarnish among the smooth and shiny gives a lived-in look that instills comfort in any space.
And I would like to add my own personal element,
Element #11 - Nature.
I find a bit of nature, whether its a leaf, a flower, a feather or a seashell, contributes a relaxed sense to your home.
Read the 10 Odd, Yet Essential, Elements of Style article in its entirety here...and be on the lookout for Deborah Needleman's new book, The Perfectly Imperfect Home...I'm on the hunt for it now...
