“You can tell when you open the door! You can tell if there’s love in the home! Every table and chair seems to smile…do come in, come and stay for a while.” ~ Bing Crosby
Unlike my own children who lived in several houses during their time under our roof, I lived in the same house for 18 years when I was growing up. In fact, my 97-year-old mother still lives there. When I go to visit her, I see things that tell the story of my family – studio portraits of my sister, two brothers and me hang on the long wall in the family room, a large aerial photo of our family farm hangs above a small fireplace in the den, the cherry dining table and 10 chairs (that Dad bought at an estate sale) are in the dining room, the light blue hobnail vase (a wedding gift to Mom and Dad more than 75 years ago) sits on a shelf in the living room, a large blue and white platter is prompted on the buffet in the dining room (a gift from Mom’s brother on his return from World War II). Mom always used this platter for the ham or turkey when our family gathered for a meal. Items like these bring back wonderful memories and remind me of the love I have for my family.
As a decorator, I can help you choose the perfect chair, sofa, art and accessories, but I cannot buy that special uniqueness that family treasures can add. Those treasures help add “love” to a home because they help tell the story of the family that lives there. I love a home that tells a story!
I am aware that furniture and accessories are just “things” and, in the scope of life, it’s the people that live in the house that are most important. However, “things” do matter because they tell your story. Nate Berkus expresses it best: “The truth is things matter. They have to. They’re what we live with and touch each and every day. They represent what we’ve seen, who we’ve loved and where we hope to go next. They remind us of good times, rough patches and everything in between that has made us who we are.”
Add love to your decorating:
- A neat and orderly home…clutter makes a person feel uncomfortable.
- Family heirlooms…quilts, antique furniture, handwork, old photos, etc., incorporated into the home’s décor.
- Pictures of family tastefully displayed.
- Artwork chosen because it symbolizes something meaningful to the family.
- Rugs on the floor, comfy/inviting furniture and sofas with throw pillows and afghans.
- Children’s artwork displayed as if it were a masterpiece.
- Soft music playing.
- Typographic art with words that have a positive message or create a warm fuzzy feeling.
- Good smells…potpourri, essential oils, candles or something baking in the oven.
- Greeting people at the door and seeing them off when they leave…hugs are always nice.
The month of February brings thoughts of “love.” Need help adding “love” to your home or help telling your family’s story? Give ReDESIGNS by Ava a call to create a beautiful space where your family can feel loved, refreshed and encouraged.
