How To Determine Your Design and Decorating Style – Part 2

Part 2 – Your Own Inspiration

Honing your personal style in the design of your home is rather challenging sometimes. Sure, you know what you like in general. But how in the world does one pull it all together to stylishly translate it into home décor? It’s easier than you think! Just follow our guide to get you started and your imagination will run with it and do the rest. In Part 1 we gave guidelines on how to source outside inspiration. Here in Part 2 we’ll complete our guide with suggestions about ways to be your own visionary!

• Consider the things that you already own and love. Has a particular piece of furniture stayed in the ‘keep’ category every time you have a garage sale? Is there an art print that has been part of every decorating scheme you’ve had for the last ten years? That tells you a lot about the things you really love to be surrounded by! Also take a look at your hobbies and passions. The things in life that bring you passion should absolutely be part of your home décor. Is mountain climbing the thing that makes your heart sing? If so, think about ways to incorporate into your home by way of artwork or accessories.
• Don’t be afraid to rework something you own and love. Take risks and try changing it up. For instance, if you someone gave you a beautiful, antique buffet but you hate the color, paint it! The old idea of leaving antiques untouched is a waste. Make it into something you adore. Better to commit a huge blunder and “ruin” it with your novice attempt, than to keep it in its original state and not fully enjoy it.
• Let your style happen. What do we mean by that? Don’t try to figure it all out at once. The most beautiful spaces are those that develop over time. Unless you have a major deadline of some kind, the space doesn’t have to be built in a day. Not only will you love it more if you let it happen naturally, you will also treasure it a great deal because it took time and dedication to bring it to life!