What Truly Makes a Home Well-Curated

Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash

How do you craft a space that looks and feels well-curated? Somewhere to unwind after a busy day, a space to entertain loved ones. Hint: it isn’t the latest design trend.

Do you ever walk into a friends home and just feel so cozy, even if the decor isn’t your vibe? There is truly one thing that makes a home feel well curated, and no it isn’t the latest design trend, though trends are a great source for inspiration. The secret to creating a well-curated home is having a space that truly reflects you as a person.

That is why in the beginning phases of working with an interior designer, they ask questions to get to know all about you. What interests or hobbies you enjoy. Who you share your home with. What your morning and night routine is in your space. What design style you are drawn to.

But how do we assess for ourselves how we can make our homes a reflection of us?

Think Outside the Box

I like mid-century modern so all of my furniture and decor HAS to be mid-century modern. No. I think when we try to box ourselves into certain styles we run on auto pilot in a way where that style is influences our decisions rather than reflecting what we are drawn to. What if you love mid-century modern, so you opt to purchase a mid century modern breakfast table and chairs, but you see some ornate traditional decor that you adore? So be it! We have to observe and see what we are drawn to, rather than trying to emulate a particular style to a T.

What Catches Your Eye?

Once you get out of the mindset of trying to emulate a particular style it’s time to find some things that you are drawn to in regards to interiors. Hello Pinterest! Pinterest has loads of inspiration, saving pins that you love can be a great way to get started with exploring what you would love to add to your space (like I did below). And your style can change over time!

It’s also good to note what colors you are drawn to for your space. Do you like earthy muted tones, or pops of deep, moody color? What you pin on Pinterest can give you clues to your favorite color palate. My Pinterest board tells me that I like darker wood tones, with natural colors like deep green. It can be easy to include your favorite colors into a space through paint colors, wallpaper, pillow, blankets, curtains, and rugs. And if you like a certain color of wood, keep that in mind when selecting furniture, but do not be afraid to mix shades if they are not a perfect match.

Another good way to get inspiration is to “find things.” Don’t go to a furniture or antique store with an agenda, rather, walk through and take note of what catches your eye. Feel free to take a photo of what you love. If it’s something small or you know it will fit in your space, purchase the item to include in your home. I do this all the time at antique and thrift stores, if something catches my eye, I love it, and I know I have room for it, I will purchase it for my space.

Lastly, ask yourself if you are more of a minimal person or like to have more pieces in your home. Does too much clutter overstimulate you, are you constantly getting rid of things? Maybe you would prefer a design that is more neutral with clean lines, as opposed to someone who adores walls full of decor and mementos. Your home tells the story of you. Follow your instincts when selecting pieces to create a space that feels uniquely yours.

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