The secret to creating a beautiful home isn't in cloning a big-name designer's style, or washing a room in the latest trend. It's about thoughtfully constructing a space that celebrates the people who live there. Our design choices should not be inspired by today's "it" color palettes or furniture styles, but by the opportunity to bring to life the story of us: what we love, what is precious from our past, what we dream of for the future.
You infuse a space with your personality layer by layer, in the little design choices and the big ones. My friend Lisa is a master at this. Her home is loaded with personality. Everywhere you turn, you see her sense of humor, love of tradition and adventurous spirit. I want to spotlight six ways Lisa has put her unique stamp on her home, to inspire us to do likewise.
1. Replace generic light fixtures with something special.
Look up. Are your light fixtures the generic numbers selected by your builder? Do you love them? If not, think about replacing them with pieces that are filled with character — your character. Lisa picked a charming chandelier for her upstairs bath instead of a ho-hum lackluster light. With its warm gold metal and sparkling crystals, the fixture makes the bath feel like a romantic retreat.
2. Add a piece of statement furniture.
Every room needs one focal point that makes a big statement. If your room doesn't have one already, what about adding a piece of furniture covered in an arresting fabric?
3. Treat your bookcases as storybooks.
Take a tour of the bookcases, hutches and cabinets in your home. Are you using these fabulous pieces to their full potential, to add personality to your home? Bookcases are stages for little vignettes that share snapshots of your life.
4. Hang some out-of-the-box artwork.
Do a quick appraisal of your walls. Are they bare? If you have hung art, do the pieces light up your spirit and reflect your personality? If not, it's time to fill your walls with works of art that are equal to you. In one of her daughters' rooms, Lisa added a whimsical gold hunting trophy. What can you turn into art in your home? Trays, dishes and family mementos are all great options. If you can hang it, it can be art.
5. Find pillows that are loaded with personality.
A pair of dazzling earrings or a gorgeous scarf can transform an outfit. Fabulous accent pillows do the same thing in your home. The right mix of pillows can lend oodles of personality to a generic sofa or chair or bedding ensemble. In her guest room, Lisa kept her color palette tight, letting a mix of textures and patterns tell the story. Pick a spot in your home to refresh with interesting pillows.
6. Finish your windows with flair.
Your windows are pieces of art in their own right, featuring the world outside. Like art, they look their best in a great frame. Full window treatments are an investment, so select styles and fabrics that won't be dated in a few years. Lisa's Roman shades and classic panels trimmed in a Greek key tape are timeless and breathtaking. Do you have windows that need a makeover? Resolve to dress them up in 2018.
