Thoughts on Finding Your Style

Remember those 3 questions I suggested that you ask yourself before beginning a home redesign or renovation project? Well, today we are going to dive deep into the first question, “What are your likes and dislikes?”

In this post I’ll help you realize your preferences and help you tap into your creative side. Think of this as a personalized brainstorming session where you are free to visualize the space of your dreams. There are no rules or limits to the space you would like to create! This may be overwhelming to you as there are so many sources for inspiration, you may find it difficult to make decisions. However, right now we are not writing anything in stone － everything is revisable. We will narrow the focus later down the road.

But for now, close your eyes and visualize your ideal space.

I get it. this is easier said than done.

As someone who helps others find their style I was taken aback recently when someone asked me what my personal style was. I’m a bit of a style chameleon, favoring certain qualities about EVERY style. How can I pick just one?

So, I thought about the spaces in my home and tried to think of what style they resemble. Then I just about fainted imagining this person walking into my house to witness the horrors of what a designer’s house looks like － with two kids and a dog. Of all 11 rooms in my home I’m proud of two, and even for those rooms I could make a long list of things I’d like to change.

I had a hard time answering this question because:

1. I’m typically asking these questions, not the other way around, and

2. I can’t choose just one or even two styles that I gravitate towards most. It really depends on the day!

However, I’m very thankful that I was placed in the hot seat because it reminded me how intensely vague and difficult of a question it is to concisely answer.

You may be thinking:

I fancy understated sleek lines. I’m a form-follows-function sort of gal. Does this mean Mid Century is my style? But what about the calmness of soft neutral tones and wood accents that characterize California Casual? Timeless art, antiques and symmetry are also pleasing. This means I like traditionally Classic design. On the other hand, I really do love sinking down into layered no fuss and fringy Bohemian textiles…

I could go on, and so could you, probably. It is fair to say that on any given day we can sway from one style to the next, and just because someone has a preferred style this does not necessarily mean it is expressed throughout their entire home － nor should it be! Using one style statement throughout a space will create a monotonous atmosphere that lacks character.

3 Things to Remember:

1. Most of the time it is best to mix styles as well as old and new things to keep it interesting.

2. An easy way to do this is to diversify your shopping habits and seek out new retailers to try.

3. Buy what you like and surround yourself with things that will help you live your best.

When you close your eyes and imagine your space what do you see?