One of the first things I will ask a new client is: “What do you want to keep that’s already in your home?” Those things - the antiques, the art, the keepsakes - are what really tell the story of who my client is. Mixing them into the new items that we select for the home is an art, and one that I really love. If you just threw out all of your belongings and had a designer bring in everything new, you would have a beautiful home, but one that isn’t very personal. So what DOES give a home that personal touch? Here are 4 things to consider:

Original Art

This should be art that you love, that really speaks to you. If you love it, then it needs to be part of your home. I’ve worked with clients who had an extensive art collection of important pieces and clients who has some lovely paintings that they found at local galleries. Either way, original art can really reveal a lot about who you are and what you like.

Antique & Heirlooms

Whatever you do, don’t throw out or sell any antiques and heirlooms before you have a chance to look them over with your designer. Some of those pieces can look absolutely amazing in a new and more modern setting. Or they might just need to be refinished or painted to give them new life. Allow your designer to sort through things with you because each one of those things also tells a story. Especially if they’re from your family members! Many of them will also add a one-of-a-kind look to a room, something you won’t see in anyone else’s home.

Special Photos

We all love to frame photos of family members or special memories. But you also may have some incredible older vintage photos or fabulous shots from vacations that should be given a place of honor. Sort through your family photography and show your designer any photos that are super-special or that are works of art in their own right. Those carry a lot of sentimental value and will definitely show your guests more about who you are.

Curate Collectibles

If you have a collection of things that are important to you, be sure to make them part of your decor. It could be vintage teacups, cool cutting boards, silver compacts, or something else. Whatever you collect, find a place to give them a spotlight.

Use these ideas to make your home’s decor much more personal and unique. Let your home tell your friends and family more about who you are!

Warmly,

Beth