Tuesday 25 August 2009

Your Sense of Style...



I was reading through one of my books the other day (a very rare occurance these days!!!) and I came across a piece that I'd written that I really like! And so, I thought I'd share it with you....

'Creating a stylishly decorated interior is one thing; being able to live and breathe in it with ease is another. In my time as an interior stylist and writer I've seen many homes where the design and decoration are disconnected from the activity and life they are intended to support. Your home's interior should be a participant in your life, not just an 'observer' - it should inspire emotion and satisfy the senses, making living that little bit more comfortable. After all, your home bears witness to so many of the comings and goings, to so much of the laughter, tears and celebration that make up your history. When you decorate your interior in a way that embodies a true sense of who you are and reflects the life and the energy that pulse within its framework, you are creating a home to nurture the soul as well as provide shelter for you and your family....'

pic from Light Locations

16 comments:

Rajee Sood said...

Love each word you say ... couldn't agree anyless ... and you know what I profess the same ...

MICHELLE said...

That's such a great way of saying it. Which is why I always think it's best to build a room/home over time, collecting things here and there. That gives it personality and a personal touch as opposed to if there was a huge shopping spree right in the beginning.

Paint Me White said...

Think your words are quite true Shannon well written. I am a property manager and go into people's homes on a daily basis. I see so many homes that are just crying out for personality. There are so many people out there that have no interest in their homes whatsoever and actually live in a very cluttered and untidy manner. I just want to grab everything and start all over for them. Sandy

Irene ~ RE~VINTAGED said...

I am very close to re doing a very tired and worn out (and lets be frank - hideous) 70's kitchen. I have spent so much time thinking about how to create my new kitchen so it can enhance our daily life as well as satisfying my need for somewhere pretty and practical. Whats the point of something that looks Fabulous! in a photo but does nothing to make your families daily life easier and happier. As an 'Interiors Magazines' addict I have seen so many of those Fabulous! rooms. (Mind you I have also found inspiration for my kitchen from these magazines too.)
So your words resonate with me strongly.
Irene x

Dumbwit Tellher said...

Nurturing the soul is spot on. This is so well written, quite enjoyed it.

Cheers!
Deb

Amanda said...

Lovely words Shannon, and so true. Many magazine homes that I just love on paper wouldn't be suited to my families lifestyle. I do like to borrow a little inspiration though.

Unknown said...

So true. I tend toward the impractical because I fall in love with design and constantly strive to reinterpret the pieces so they are livable. Would Karim Rasheed just die if he knew I have a tea towel covering his coffee table when I use it to eat/drink while I am reading blogs? I also wish I could think of a better use for my unused living room than just holding a dining table & 2 couches inherited from my mom. Maybe you could do a post about this??

beachvintage.com said...

This just makes so much sense. I try to make my home a place where my family can all live without worrying about silly things like putting feet on the couch or even the coffee table. As long as we call all be relaxed I dont really care.

BALLET NEWS said...

Hello, really wanted to leave a comment for you because your blog is so beautiful. Time flies when you're having fun and I've really enjoyed reading your interesting posts. Your pictures are brilliant too. Thank you for sharing them and have a great weekend - best wishes....

Brenda Pruitt said...

Sage wisdom! I totally agree. I love my home. And after reading your "about me" I'm with you there also. I go out once or twice during the week. But I always want to hurry and get home. This is where I love to be. Home.
Brenda

Thea said...

Beautifully written. I have been enjoying your blog too.

Barb Fisher - Hopscotch said...

So well written Shannon, and I totally agree. I have been designing our new kitchen/family room and it's been a real study in gorgeous-'this is how I really want it to look'-design versus practicality and budget (oooh that's such a dirty little word).

I've taken a fairly common sense approach (not like me at all usually!)and am hoping that when it's all installed in three weeks time, I've managed to combine my designer sensibilities and ideals with the practicalites of every day family life.

Time will tell!

Kathleen said...

Very well said...and that room and that fabric is to die for!

Ju said...

Wise words Shannon. You are an inspiration in combining your wonderful creativity with the often forgotten reality of having space you LIKE and can live with!!! Forever your major fan :)

Denise | Chez Danisse said...

So true. Now I must get to work shaping up my little space so it is inspiring and comfortable!

belinda said...

how wonderfully true. it's hard to sometimes remember this when you're faced with perfection on each page of a magazine or design blog, despite knowing exactly how much work goes into removing signs of life from a room for a shoot. that's why i love the real homes and why i'm happy to record the failures as well as the successes of my decorating attempts. there is nothing quite like a home that reflects the personality of its owners - you instantly feel comfortable and welcome there, even if it's not your own! which book is this one from? i must get your books...