Mindful Interior Styling
Home is my happy place, my sanctuary, a place of peace. And thinking back to my childhood, it always was. I think my mom instilled that in me. No matter where we lived or moved, she always made whatever space we had feel perfectly cozy, organized, and beautiful. She didn't have a lot of extra money and worked 7 days a week, but she could take a bland, small rental and fix it up beautifully, she'd even throw some landscaping outside to give it a sense of curb appeal. I respected my mom so much for that; making home feel like such a welcomed space, no matter the place. When I was young, she would allow me to change my room around often and supported me fully through my Hawaiian obsession (anyone else go through one of those?) I'm thankful for that creative reign as a kid. I feel like it greatly influenced my love for home design and curating a space that feels personal, peaceful, and beautiful.
Below I'm sharing some of the ways I use interior styling to create a mindful environment in my home. It's part of what makes my home, my sanctuary. I'd love to know- what are some of the things you do in your home that helps you feel more connected to your space?
1. Collect objects that are special or unique to you. I have some sentimental bits & bobs that were given to me from my grandparents. They all enjoyed thrifting and antiquing, so when I'd visit their houses I would let them know if there was something I loved, such as that ever-so-adorable mini brass elephant- something I walk by daily that now reminds me of my sweet grandma. The hand-shaped trinket dish was my great-grandfathers and I think it's such a great little piece. Your special items don't need to be vintage or antique- just something special to you, say.. the marble table numbers from your wedding stacked in the order of your wedding date (I loved them so much I needed to find a place for them). While you don't want to clutter your space, you can't go wrong for putting a few of your favorites on display. It's a simple way to remind yourself of the things that make you happy or matter most to you.
2. Mix old & new. This sort of ties in with the above- but, add more thrifted or vintage items into the mix! Whether its books, furniture, or various home decor, it will definitely add uniqueness to your home. Sometimes you don't have to go far to find it either! Both the Vincent Van Gogh & Brittanica books were found in the trash area in the stairwell of my apartment, and the small white modern vase atop the media stand I found randomly on a Brooklyn sidewalk. I started thrifting years ago and never looked back. Not only is the hunt of thrifting exciting, but you’re reusing and reducing, which is always a good thing!
3. Curate a collection of matchbooks from places you've traveled. It's something fun to seek out while you're traveling, & it will remind you of places you've been.
4. Create a cozy space to relax and unwind. Pair with an essential oil candle depending on your mood, along with whatever else helps you relax. You deserve it!
5. Statement-piece to showcase your treasures. I'm a lucky gal, it's true. My very talented father-in-law custom built this piece for us and the story goes like this: Alex and I went on a Eurotrip starting with Paris and fell in love with the cremone bolts on our apartment windows (these are things we notice on vacations), and then we got engaged in Italy (definitely a conversation for another day :)). That to say, when there was talk about a custom media stand to fit this wall, we remembered the cremone bolts that we adored and decided to design this piece! We bought the bolts through Signature Hardware, and the glass from a local supplier. The rest was built by the hands of our very own master woodworker. This piece showcases my treasures, while being a treasure itself. A double-win! I love being in my home and looking around at the the things that bring me joy, or are special to me, for whichever reason that may be.
6. Keep neutrals in the bedroom. I prefer mostly neutrals in my bedroom. I have dreamed of having a room that totally exudes peace and relaxation, and with the help of neutrals, plants, and minimal decor I am finally at a point close to that. Gone are my days of clutter in the bedroom and I can't tell you what a relief it is. I do still love my bits-n-bobs, so forgive me I'm trying hard, but I did clear out a lot! If that's you too, I dare you to clear out your bedroom clutter, even just a little. You will feel refreshed!
7. Fill your home and surround yourself with plants! Everywhere, at all times. It's simply non-negotiable :) . Not only are many house plants natural air purifiers, but they also add life to a space! Your home will feel cleaner, brighter, and happier with plants. It is also satisfying to watch them grow (when our black thumbs don't get the best of us.) If you think your space is missing something, but can't put your green thumb (I mean, finger) on it, I can guarantee it is missing plant life!
I can't close out this post without giving a shoutout to my best girl. My shadow, my light, the good in my life. If there's anything that gives a home meaning, it's the people and pets inside. This dog is my whole heart and then some. I am obsessed with her and I won't apologize for it. This is Nina Valentina and she's a very good girl. You will see a lot of her around here :)
If you've gotten this far- thank you from the bottom of my heart for following along! Let us know in the comments if you plan to apply any of these tips to connect to your own space!
xx Ash