Design point of view…..

**Warning….rambling post coming.

During the past couple weeks I have had some

situations and challenges experiences that have lead me to really

think about how I design spaces, why I design a space a certain way

and what influences my direction and decisions.

Back when I spent way too much time only dreaming about

helping clients create beautiful homes, I was discouraged by

my own thoughts.  Could I really create a career in a field

that I lacked the proper training?

And while I fully acknowledge I don't know CAD, have

never drawn a space or possess other technical skills 

taught in interior design programs,

I know for sure that I have a design point of view. A point

of view that is unique to me but influenced by some of 

my design heroes…….

Like the Emily Henderson designed space below.

I am working on numerous client projects right now.

I am also designing a space basically, just for me.

I have had a lot to think about.

And while I can try and channel my best Anna Spiro {the room

below is her design}….I really can only channel Jill Hinson…..

it would be wrong to think I could be anyone else.

It's a fact…...I work well with vintage, neutrals,

unique art, accessories galore, pillows{!} and natural elements.

While I appreciate fancy furniture and finishings, 

most of my clients appreciate my ability to mix it up, 

find a bargain, stretch a budget and STILL 

create a beautiful, personal space.

When I find myself questioning whether I have what it takes, I look

around at all the 'famous' designers whose work I admire and study,

{like Jaime Meares, whose own living room is pictured below},

they all bring a unique point-of-view to the spaces the design.

A point-of-view that will appeal to some and not to others.

And that's ok.  Their spaces are their art - subjective and open to 

interpretation, eliciting emotions and reactions as much as

a priceless painting.

As a designer {or a decorator, whatever}….I respect the

point-of-view my clients bring to the table too.  I really believe

I am hired to curate how they want their home to look

and feel - it's not about me completely imposing my style on them.

I offer choices and options, all equally good ones.

Nothing made me think more about my role and my point-of-view than

working in my own home this weekend.  As much as I began trying

to be Emily Henderson as I designed my space, I quickly realized I can't BE

Emily Henderson….it felt awkward and too 'try-hard'…when

I let it go and began designing my space as me, it worked, it felt 

{for lack of a better word} right.  

I am grateful for the inspiration of others, I hope it makes me better.

And mostly I am grateful to my clients who trust me and

my point-of-view - I will never stop trying to be a better designer,

to offer creative, functional and affordable solutions.

I acknowledge that my point-of-view may not be

for everyone and that's ok.  Thankfully I have learned that

any rejection of my aesthetic is not a statement on my worthiness

as a designer but rather a difference of opinion.  

As they say, "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder".

Just look at the home of designer Kelly Wearstler below!

{which I love, btw}

Congratulations to Ashley@Parsons Farm and Kristen Wall!

You each won a $75 credit to Minted!!!