Timeless Interiors
Timeless Interiors
Tips to create a space you’ll enjoy for years.
Years ago, I went through a huge transformation in decluttering and minimizing our home. Once our space became peaceful and easy (well easiER, I do have three kids) to clean, I was ready to add artwork. But, I felt nervous to add color or any original art.
As I went through the process of decorating our new space, I came up with a few tips to keep in mind when you’re choosing artwork.
I learned how to truly distinguishing between what I actually love and what I’m constantly (subconsciously) being influenced to “love”. I learned to stop hopping from trend to trend, and to start tuning in to what brings me joy.
You, too, can be confident in your choice to create a timeless interior.
Be Intentional - Take Your Time
Taking time to let your space evolve slowly will result in a timeless, trend-resistant, result. Rushing to completely design your space in one shot is more likely to result in a burst of joy, but ultimately a quick let down.
Buy pieces of art and furniture slowly over time. Without delving into an indecision spiral, make sure each piece aligns with your values. Remember, timeless does not have to equal boring! It just means to think about the colors and feelings that you gravitate towards. Stay true to yourself and you can’t go wrong.
Invest is quality over quantity. When purchasing art, look for phrases like “archival quality”, “solid wood framing”, and “gallery wrapped canvas”. Since you’re going for timeless, make sure your new art will last.
Resist impulse purchases. Resist keeping up with trends. Turn inward towards what YOU personally enjoy. (see tip 4 below)
2. Create a Focal Point, or Two
Humans love contrast. Our eyes naturally roam until they find a solid place to land. Create a focal point in your space with art! You’re not just here to fill walls quickly. Create a flow, a feeling, a story with meaningful art.
A pop of color against a neutral space is an easy way to create a focal point. Scared of color? Trust your gut and go with colors that sing to you. What lights you up? What inspires curiosity or gives your mind an escape?
Hanging tip! The center of the artwork should hang 60" inches from the floor. Most galleries, artists, and interior designers agree on this.
3. Create a Story in Your Space
To add meaning to your space, think about your own story and the artist/maker’s story. This is an easy way to spark conversation and feel confident in your purchasing choice.
Reflect on your own personal story. Choose art that sparks something within YOU - a memory, curiosity, an emotion.
Learn about the artist - their story, process, values, background. Knowing where, why, and who the art is coming from helps add meaning that goes beyond the initial aesthetic.
Create a mood board for the space. What feelings are you trying to create here? Do you want it to feel cozy and calm? Or do you need the space the be inspiring and sparking your creativity?
4. Get Curious without Judgment
Really, this is a lesson in LIFE, not limited to designing spaces or choosing art. The point of getting curious without judgment is to notice what YOU love without the noise from the rest of the world.
Turn inward to notice what makes you happy, brings you joy. Get curious about yourself.
Here’s the kicker though - be curious, without judging yourself and your choices. Resist the urge to compare yourself against the algorithms and influencers. If the things you love are different from what you expect (or what the world leads you to believe is “trendy” or “normal”), explore where it’s all coming from - and explore gently without harsh criticism.
You don’t even need to know WHY you love something. If you feel it in your gut, go with it.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful. As always, if you have questions, reach out to me at hello@krystlestevenson.com. I’m happy to help!
Kindly,
Krystle
