THE DEPTHS OF DESIGN

Whether it is a vase of flowers next to the bed, or treasured photographs lining the walls; stacks of design books I’ve purchased over the years or curated treasures scattered on every surface, aesthetic is everything and it is just as important as oxygen for me in order to feel settled within a space. When you surround yourself with meaningful things, your soul will be fed and the inspiration will keep you feeling buoyant.

I have been collecting shelter magazines for the better part of twenty years, and still have the bizarre ability to look at a single, random edition of Elle Decor or House Beautiful from 1998 or 2003 and instantly recall the article, name the designer and all the details about the featured home. It’s kind of an odd “talent”, if you will, especially given the fact that I have trouble recalling my Amazon or Apple ID password on a daily basis. I think this is where my obsession with peeking inside the walls of beautiful homes came from and has only intensified with the advent of Pinterest, HGTV, and online shopping. I’ve taken this as a sign that I truly have a passion for interiors and design and that it sparks something almost indescribable in me. I can remember falling in love with the rooms that Michael S. Smith designed, as well as Katie Ridder’s use of color and pattern with abandon. Nate Berkus, Martyn Lawrence Bullard, and Paloma Contreras have provided endless inspiration and would be at the top of my list, along with local San Francisco designer Palmer Weiss to decorate my dream home if I had a budget without boundaries.

One of my favorite ways to personalize a room is with a gallery wall. Even going back to my first apartment, when all I could afford were Ikea frames filled with travel postcards and family photos, this was my signature stamp for filling a space with meaningful items and telling a story. My style has evolved somewhat in this category, but not much because I still love to add to our rooms over time with framed vacation photos and artwork from the kids. It’s a great way to add color, depth, and dimension as well as showcase personal conversation starters. And an Hermès blanket is always a beautiful touch. And still on my wishlist.;)

I like to classify my style as “modern traditional” with a heavy dose of East Coast classicism. Never stuffy or formal, I like a touch of whimsy with a healthy mix of high and low. As you know, I’m a huge fan of Home Goods, Target, and yes, even World Market; pair those everyday finds with a special piece from One Kings Lane, Restoration Hardware, or 1stdibs. Marry them all together to make the space your own, and allow your rooms to evolve and grow with you over time. Loads of pillows, patterned drapes, a unique ottoman, and a coffee table full of flowers and personal keepsakes- to me, these components are the essence of layered, lived in luxury.

The key to knowing and trusting your own personal style, in my mind, is time. Trial and error will most certainly occur, so embrace it as part of the process. Trust your gut, listen to what you love, and don’t be afraid to take chances. Allow your taste and style to evolve over time and be open to new designers; if we all still hung Nagel’s on our walls, loved brass beds layered with Shabby Chic ruffles, or thought carpeting in the bathroom were luxurious, where would we be today?

Stay inspired and don’t be afraid to embrace your own personal style evolution.

xo,

klm