Over the past several months, I’ve tried to identify what makes a home interesting.  What makes my eye linger on a magazine editorial, or hit save on a Pinterest or Instagram photo.  Taste and style fluctuates from person to person, but for me, it’s layers.  Layers create an editorial home worthy of a center spread.

When I need a little inspiration, I head towards the pages of Architectural Digest or the feed of Vogue Living, and notice that it takes me longer to take in the entire room.  My eye has to focus on numerous parts of the photo, not in a way that is busy, but just that I don’t want to miss anything.

Depth has been added to the room with pattern, color and a mix of new and old that comes together like a livable piece of eye candy.  You want to understand the purpose and motivation behind each design decision and learn the designer’s inspiration.  Even if the style isn’t your personal taste, you can appreciate the artistry behind the finished product.

When I peruse the archives of these design publications, I immediately want to know the source of the artwork or the furniture, because it’s unlike anything I have ever seen.  It’s unique.  It pains me to see people decorate with the same exact pieces over and over again to the point where I know the name of the couch and exactly where to get it from.  I believe this is the reason that items I pick up from the Paris flea market and fly back in my luggage is sold before I land – clients know that they are one of a kind with a story.  I love a house with a story – curated pieces from walks of life that come together in a unique way.  A home doesn’t have to come together within months or even years.  Eliminate the one trip get all of your decor.  Throw that straight out the window.

I love seeing when homeowners have taken risks.  When I see a kitchen island dressed in marble like I have never laid eyes on, or a master headboard that is like a piece of art.  Just because you haven’t seen it done before, doesn’t mean it’s wrong.  Try it, then layer around it.  And remember everything can be turned into an interesting piece from an artistic take on a family photo to a redesign of an ancestor’s dining room table.  Don’t be afraid of the risks – the reward can be stunning.

There are so many additions I wanted to add to our Shem Creek home, but we decided to sell it and move on to the next.  In my opinion, there weren’t enough layers quite yet.  The side tables in the living room weren’t styled enough, the rug needed more personality, the coffee table books weren’t stacked nearly high enough and I needed about ten more pillows.  The rooms could have held more personality.  I loved what I did, but there is always room for more.

I’m always here to help, and I love seeing your homes via DM!  Send me questions and I’ll send back a little inspo!  No better time than now for a home project.

XX, P