Sometimes I get hung up on “rules” in decorating. Matchy matchy stuff: Can you do a dark wood floor in one room and a concrete floor in another? Or can you can do a vintage light fixture in the hallway and a modern one in the dining room? I get almost frantic with insecurity even though my instincts are screaming at me to relax. Often, in these times of decorating distress, I dial my friend GG’s number and ask her for her thoughts, to which she replies “Emily, you know I don’t believe in rules. If you love it, it will work.” Then I feel more secure to go off the beaten path and try new things.
This week I have seen many homes for sale that have taken a fresh direction in their decor. No rules for them. I have also seen many homes that have followed all the rules and hey, they look great too. I know the ones who went off the beaten path probably had to fight their Realtors and Home Stagers on removing lots of the flashy fun stuff, so I can’t wait to see which properties sell first.
This image above, a loft in NYC (from Marthastewart.com) is one that I greatly admire. Certainly there are some rules being followed, but in a super fun way. Colour and pattern, a mix of furniture eras and materials make for a comfortable looking, attainable yet somehow contemporary room. -EN
