**Warning….rambling post coming.
During the past couple weeks I have had some
situations and challenges experiences that have lead me to really
think about how I design spaces, why I design a space a certain way
and what influences my direction and decisions.
Back when I spent way too much time only dreaming about
helping clients create beautiful homes, I was discouraged by
my own thoughts. Could I really create a career in a field
that I lacked the proper training?
And while I fully acknowledge I don't know CAD, have
never drawn a space or possess other technical skills
taught in interior design programs,
I know for sure that I have a design point of view. A point
of view that is unique to me but influenced by some of
my design heroes…….
Like the Emily Henderson designed space below.
I am working on numerous client projects right now.
I am also designing a space basically, just for me.
I have had a lot to think about.
And while I can try and channel my best Anna Spiro {the room
below is her design}….I really can only channel Jill Hinson…..
it would be wrong to think I could be anyone else.
It's a fact…...I work well with vintage, neutrals,
unique art, accessories galore, pillows{!} and natural elements.
While I appreciate fancy furniture and finishings,
most of my clients appreciate my ability to mix it up,
find a bargain, stretch a budget and STILL
create a beautiful, personal space.
When I find myself questioning whether I have what it takes, I look
around at all the 'famous' designers whose work I admire and study,
{like Jaime Meares, whose own living room is pictured below},
they all bring a unique point-of-view to the spaces the design.
A point-of-view that will appeal to some and not to others.
And that's ok. Their spaces are their art - subjective and open to
interpretation, eliciting emotions and reactions as much as
a priceless painting.
As a designer {or a decorator, whatever}….I respect the
point-of-view my clients bring to the table too. I really believe
I am hired to curate how they want their home to look
and feel - it's not about me completely imposing my style on them.
I offer choices and options, all equally good ones.
Nothing made me think more about my role and my point-of-view than
working in my own home this weekend. As much as I began trying
to be Emily Henderson as I designed my space, I quickly realized I can't BE
Emily Henderson….it felt awkward and too 'try-hard'…when
I let it go and began designing my space as me, it worked, it felt
{for lack of a better word} right.
I am grateful for the inspiration of others, I hope it makes me better.
And mostly I am grateful to my clients who trust me and
my point-of-view - I will never stop trying to be a better designer,
to offer creative, functional and affordable solutions.
I acknowledge that my point-of-view may not be
for everyone and that's ok. Thankfully I have learned that
any rejection of my aesthetic is not a statement on my worthiness
as a designer but rather a difference of opinion.
As they say, "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder".
Just look at the home of designer Kelly Wearstler below!
{which I love, btw}
Congratulations to Ashley@Parsons Farm and Kristen Wall!
You each won a $75 credit to Minted!!!