Over the weekend I was having a bit of a clear out and a de-clutter. Typically, what happens is I re-discover items, particularly books. then end up distracted as I begin re-reading them, while the taste in hane gets totally forgotten.
The three I unearthed are all interior design books, including one I was given in my teens called ‘House Style’ by Lorraine Mack. I love the fact that it still has my name stickers on it.
Flicking through the pages, what strikes me is that the hacks and tricks we use today to create our homes use the same principles used in interior design for centuries. For example, screen and room dividers creating privacy and smaller intimate spaces were used in China centuries ago. That same principle is still used today to break up our open-plan living spaces, but instead of using wood and paper, we are using shelving or pocket and glass sliding doors to achieve the same objectives.
Favourite book no 2 was bought more recently. ‘The Sensory Home’ by Pippa Jameson. Pippa explores how, with some thought and consideration, we can easily create comfortable home spaces, through our choice of lighting, colour, texture, and room layouts, which all play to our senses, helping us improve our mindfulness and mental wellbeing. These techniques work for both neurodiverse and neurotypical people.
It’s an inspiring read and has helped me to think more consciously about the needs of my home, without having to compromise on style.
The third book is called ‘Thrifty Chic’, by Liz Bauwens and Alexandra Campbell. I picked it up in the lovely little Interiors Shop in Stroud, which sadly no longer exists.
Thrifty Chic chimes with me. It’s not about shabby chic – that was never my thing. This book shows you how to create beautiful, timeless and bespoke spaces on a budget.
It’s about knowing what key items to invest in and where you can be thirty. Creating spaces this way, takes time, as sourcing cost-effective options takes time, with items more likely to be found in independent shops rather than on the high street. Patience is key, but the satisfaction of finding that perfect treasure is incredibly rewarding.
If you want help creating a space that works for you and your family’s needs, or in finding your style to create your bespoke interior, then get in touch.
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