Slow Style Home: Decorating Personal, Meaningful Interiors

• 6 Design "Rules" for an Anti-Generic Home

  Last week, I interviewed a designer who strongly follows and advocates for design rules, and while that method works for some, I advocate for a different, more personal approach to home design. I discussed various design rules, their origins, and how they can be broken to create a unique, joyful space that reflects individual style. I categorized design rules into three buckets: classical aesthetic principles, practical rules learned through trial and error by pros, and cultural trends. I believe in playing with these rules rather than strictly adhering to them. I shared my thoughts on specific rules such as lighting sources, scale of lampshades, furniture placement for flow, family portraits, rug sizes, and curtain lengths, emphasizing the importance of understanding the 'why' behind each rule. For me, design is more art than science, and I encourage exploring and creating a space that truly represents one's unique style. Slow Style is about enjoying the process of decorating and finding joy in creating beauty that resonates personally. Want to finally define your style? Grab your free worksheet and uncover your personal aesthetic!

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• Fast or Slow? Which Decorating Approach is Right For You? with Betsy Helmuth

  In this episode, I sit down with Betsy Helmuth, a professional designer known for her fast-paced, rule-based approach, which contrasts with my slow style method. While I emphasize self-exploration and taking time to layer a home, Betsy's clients prioritize efficiency and clear guidelines to avoid mistakes in their design decisions. Betsy shares how she helps her New York City clients choose practical, affordable furniture, often from Ikea, over high-end pieces due to their transient living situations. She provides tips like investing in items with moving parts, such as drawers, for better durability. Betsy also discusses her method for creating a cohesive color palette using an inspiration piece with three colors, and her 60-30-10 rule for color distribution. This episode highlights the value of understanding multiple approaches to design and finding what best aligns with your preferences. Want to finally define your style? Grab your free worksheet and uncover your personal aesthetic!

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• Maximalism Doesn’t Mean Cluttered: How to Add Layers and Make an Impact with Danielle Balanis

  In this episode, I had a delightful conversation with Danielle Balanis, a Birmingham-based designer known for her bold, layered, and mixed aesthetic. Danielle's designs exude joy, abundance, and energy, adhering to the principles of the Slow Style philosophy. She emphasizes developing an aesthetic rather than adhering to strict style categories, focusing on creating evocative experiences rather than matching products. Danielle draws inspiration from varied sources like fashion and film and stresses the importance of playing with design elements and taking time to let styles unfold. We discussed several projects where she broke conventional design rules, such as rejecting the 60-30-10 color rule and using unusual combinations and scales. Danielle shared specific stories behind her projects, such as draping a whole bathroom to create a luxurious feel and using unexpected elements like antique mirrors and layered patterns. She highlighted a family room framed with dramatic portières and a moody, persimmon-accented bedroom designed for a show house. In her personal creative space, she showcased a blend of textures, colors, and collected items that reflect her unique style. This conversation is full of advice for those hesitant to embrace bold designs, encouraging you to trust your instincts and explore. Want to finally define your style? Grab your free worksheet and uncover your personal aesthetic!

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• Fix My Room: Basement Bar Edition

  Today I'm sharing a 1:1 coaching call from a listener who wanted help with his basement bar. It's a small area that he felt could use a big update.  And he wanted to use his recent trip to Germany as a jumping off point.  If you're watching this on YouTube, you'll see photos of his bar and some shots I pulled from German taverns for inspiration.  Want to finally define your style? Grab your free worksheet and uncover your personal aesthetic!

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• Fix My Room: Small changes make a big impact in a living room

  In this first episode of my new "Fix My Room" series, I take you behind the scenes of a real-life design coaching session with Kathleen. Join me as I help her transform a frustrating living room into a peaceful, light-filled space by focusing on what truly brings her joy. We'll explore how a few strategic changes—removing heavy curtains, relocating clutter, and finding the perfect rug—can completely shift how you experience a room. This isn't about spending lots of money, but about creating intentional, meaningful design that reflects your personal style. Want to finally define your style? Grab your free worksheet and uncover your personal aesthetic!

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