What Does Style Mean?

I was reading my magazine while camping last week and read a great article about Style.
Style means, expressing yourself... taking risks... looking for the unexpected... adding color... and mixing it up!
So now how do you do that?
There are so many different ways to express yourself in your own home - something as simple as adding new throw pillows, a piece of custom art or a new rug is a great basis to start. When you are out shopping and you spot a fun funky pillow, don't hesitate! BUY IT! it will add a little of your personality to your couch or chair.

Changing out lighting fixtures in a room is a great way to express yourself, like you do with jewelry and accessories for your wardrobe you have to look at designing your home with a similar eye.

Lighting can be eye candy in a room. Here are some great fun funky lights that don't put too much strain on the pocket.

These little drops will add a little style to a dark corner or a shelf in need of some TLC

Can you picture how outstanding your dining room will look with this chandelier above your table?

It is important that when you are designing your home that you only worry about what you like! You do not need to worry about what other people will think. Working with clients I have heard comments such as I don't know if so and so will like it? Do they live here? NO! You want to express yourself not them.
Do you need to put a label on your style? Only if you want to - make it fun! Traditional with a flare for global chic. World Traveler meets Miami ( hmmm that one could be interesting).
What about showing your style while your kids are growing? They have style too, right?
A great quote from The Novogratz - "don't wait until your children are grown and out of the house to decorate. Live in the moment and enjoy your home with your kids."
The Novogratz are a fun funky family with amazing talent. I was talking with a friend the other day about redesigning her kiddos bedrooms and I want to make it a space that the kids can feel comfortable. We talked about letting them do some of the work and being able to express who they are in the rooms. It is a special place for children and adults, so why not maximize the possibilities. Kids grow fast so designing with a budget and transitional possibilities is also very important. As for the rest of the home - don't be afraid of living with your kids, there are very creative and stylish units for storage and great family pieces that will help bring your family together.

                                                                       

The most important thing to remember when you are designing your home - is to have fun with it, ask for help from a designer if you get stuck and take your time. There is no reason to rush perfection!

Happy Designing!