And the "collected"/ Alice & Wonderland look I'm thinking of is more like this fun, quirky space(Domino):
What got me thinking on this was that an anon left me a comment yesterday saying she/ he didn't like my bookshelf and that this "cluttered" look was exactly what homeowners were trying to avoid. (ouch! ;) But I have to say sometimes I WANT that cozy, collected, crazy-layered feeling in a space... (my bookshelf below)
The "collected" rooms have this great sense of age to me... and are a bit more English in feeling like this room by Celerie Kemble. They always make me want to lay down & read a book...
I love being in a room full of interesting things where your curious eye gets to keep going & going... The pieces are smaller & there's more going on...
My grandparents' house is like this & there's always been so much to look at and take in. I've always loved this wall of family photographs that my grandmother did. It's hard to tell but there is a soft creamy-beigey damask wallpaper behind the photos:
And also this: (minus the AMAZING chairs!!! :)
But it's starting to get a little brisk outside & I'm craving some STUFF!!!! On my walls, on my shelves, on my sofa!!! A soft throw to curl up with on every spot in the house!!! I can very easilly handle the throw blankets, pillows & shelves (I've already got my cozy bookshelf in there - ready for a fire & reading!!!! oh wait... my fireplace is fake!!! haha oh well, i can pretend.) but it's the WALLS I really need to figure out right now... With the sleep-deprived blur that I know is on its way, I will need to keep my artwork in one place for a while. In my living room, I've got windows all along one whole wall...
And I did my huge blow up of an etching on the blank wall in the dining room (below) .... Both of those are very clean, airy, large-scaled & simple.
So it's up to that last wall... the wall the mantle is on... (pic taken when we first moved in... now we have HW floors and an area rug, totally different furniture, lighting, chairs on the way... so there's a lot more going on...) But with THAT WALL- what to do -what to do?
How do I want it to feel?!!! Do I want a jumble of paintings & prints & interesting things I've collected over the years? Or do I want simple, clean? maybe a mirror with sconces and a few balanced drawings? So far the only thing with the "curiosity" feeling I love is my bookshelf. I can easily do clean & simple on my tabletops or mantle and switch them out with a full hodge-podge of personal finds, but I need to make a decision on this mantle wall!! I know nothing is permanent (and how crazy this sounds) but 10+ months sounds like a long time to me!!! I just need to think on the feeling I want in there... for now ;) Any thoughts?
How about you? Do you struggle with this? Alek of From the Right Bank to the Left Coast just did a post posing this question & showing her inspiration from both sides... I'd love to hear!!
xoxo,
lauren
and also- about negative comments. I got my first one yesterday and it stung! (it was -I think -as politely put as the commenter could have said it & don't think she/ he was trying to be hurtful at all.) And I do I know that when we create blogs we're really putting ourselves out there, but I do consider you all friends and feel really comfortable posting here... What I write here is as much for me as for you... This isn't a hard-core interior design blog. It's like an inspiration journal where I work things out & get creative & share what I'm going through with those who want to join in.
And I really put myself out on a limb when posting photos from my home. From now on, I'd really appreciate that instead of leaving negative comments, people just refrain from saying anything at all. (And I'm not talking about design debates, point of views, etc... We can ALWAYS disagree or share different point of views- I had a lot of fun with the last debate.) I know how sensitive this sounds but I just don't want negativity in this space of mine that I share with you all. I post unfinished spaces & work in progress and small DIY projects and if I feel like everything has to be perfect on here, then it really stifles my creativity & willingness to share what I'm doing on my home on here. When I'm in a design magazine and my work is published for a all to critque, I can take it, but THIS is my happy spot. ;) ;) (hahaha I WISH!!!) Anyway, thanks so much & I really do hope you can understand!!!
xoxo
As a decorator & a textile designer, this is my place to muse... perfection doesn't interest me; Reality and charm do. Fresh floppy flowers from the garden over long-stemmed roses any day, I love it when things are slightly off and tell a story. 
56 comments:
I completely understand, having a blog myself, that you don't want to read negative comments. I hope for your sake that from now on you only hear positive ones! I know that my style is different from yours, but I love that and it's why I read your blog. I want to hear about other thought processes, point of views and styles so keep up the good work. I love your blog!
Lauren,
First let me say that your blog is wonderful and very inspiring! I am so sad for you that someone would say anything negative - perchance they were trying to be funny? (I also read Decorno and those commenters, in trying to be funny, know no boundaries)
This post hits the nail on the head for me! My parents house is so full of collections, (albeit tastefully arranged, thanks in part to me!) that I actually try not to collect any one thing in particular, but adore curiosities and artful layering. I crave peaceful simplicity (I have 3 lovely energetic children) yet can't help wanting to surround myself with books and objects that once had another life and still contain beauty. I think you can have both in the same house.
I like to constantly rearrange, adding and subtracting as I go. Since I buy for my antique business, sometimes I like to try things in my own home first before I am ready to "give them up." I agree with you about containing the "clutter" to one area, especially if the room is small. Also I think that when the room (or house) has more architectural interest inside, like mouldings and other fixed details, that it is easier to leave it more "open and airy", because the beauty and interest is already there.
Can't wait to see what you do with your mantle wall! I am sure it will be fantastic! Off to read what From the Right bank to the Left Coast has to say!
:)Heidi
I agree with you. Why post something negative? And then as Anon? Doesn't seem fair. You know, I don't always like everything I see, but I would NEVER tell a blogger that. If I feel I must comment, I comment on something I do like. And, concerning your post today, I struggle with the clean vs. cluttered too. Some days I want to get rid of everything. And others I love the way it looks.
I, too, love your blog!
SMiles!
Michelle
Oh,I almost forgot, I want a wall that looks just like the one in your grandparent's house!
SMiles!
Michelle
Lauren, I love your bookcase precisely because it has that "curiosity shop" feeling... so much to look at! That it's all "contained" within the confines of the bookcase is what makes it work in a home like yours that's not so cluttery. I've struggled with the same issues... clean, simple farmhouse? or over-stuffed English cottage?... and after all these years I have recently decided to just go with what really makes me happy... lots of color and lots of stuff! As tastefully arranged and carefully collected as possible. (which is not nearly as effortless as it looks, as I'm sure you know!) I think the wall around your mantle is the perfect place to hang a collection of art around a mirror. As long as you keep it symmetrical and relatively "contained", and refer to some of the colors and weight in the art with a pillow or accessory here and there in the room, I think it could look really great. Give it a try! Nail holes are easy to cover if you decide you don't like it.
I feel your pain with the minimal vs. puposely cluttered. My husband and I just got married, and I have so many knicknacks that everything is turning into...what did you call it? ...curiosity shop. Our bedroom has nothing but furniture and curtains, because I don't know what to do in there.
oh no Lauren!! I just realized that my daughter must have signed into her google acct on my computer! The comment above from "katey" is actually from me, Tracy at Comfort&Luxury, not some random 19 yr old!! Bad Katey!!
Well, you know I'll be no help whatsoever here since I can't make a decision to save my life! :) After many changes, my fireplace is currently a complete blank wall because I can't decide what to do either. I guess you could call it uber minimal now! Whatever you do, it's going to look fabulous because you have an amazing eye. And very well said re: negative comments. Plus, I think your bookcase looks fantastic and I love that it's in tucked into that corner. Thanks also for the shout out! xoxo, alek
This is such a struggle for me too! I think you hit the nail on the head when you said it depends on how you want to feel in that room. In the end, I do lean more towards layered and cozy, especially in common area rooms, because I want my home to be comfortable and welcoming to guests. I think open and airy is beautiful to look at, but can sometimes come across as cold.
On another note -- this blog has such an amazing, positive attitude! It's unfortunate someone had to inject negativity.
It's funny that you linked your desire for spare vs. cozy interiors with the seasons--I have noticed the same thing in myself. When spring/summer comes, I want everything spare and cleaned out. But once fall comes, I like texture, coziness, and a bit more "clutter." I say just do what you want to, and if you want to change it later, so be it!!
Lauren,
Personally I love the way your bookshelf is "styled". Where else would you put all of the fab stuff you have and want to look at everyday? I don't think I would have minded the negative comment as much as the fact that the person was too cowardly to say it as themselves.
And I totally love the wooden boxes on the bottom two shelves!
hi L, firstly, if it helps, my way of dealing with the "clutter" issue is to have less in communal areas, and then more of what you want, where you want it, in the personal places (eg. your bedroom/bath etc). I think it does make communal areas look "busy" (aka cosy), but sometimes it can appear messy... that's just the way I deal with it - doesn't mean I actually do it! haha
As for neg comments, if someone put that on my blog I'd promptly advise not to post again (or visit for that matter!) My blog is not for them to have a go - they can bugger off with that rubbish - if they don't like, they don't have to visit! simple. THEN I would def go and edit my blog to make it read the way i wanted it to - why not, it's my blog, I can do whatever makes me feel good - don't let it get to you that there are some ninkompoops (aussie slang) out there!!! I love your blog!
I hear you with the cluttered vs minimal look. Isn't it funny how hard it is to figure out what YOU want for yourself?! At least nothing is permanent (but yes, 10+ months does seem like forever!). About the negative comments, good for you for saying something. One negative comment can really ruin your day, especially when it's personal about your own home! Ouch! I feel your pain! (But I LOVED your bookshelf. I thought it was perfect. Except for the gator..he scared me! ha!)
I understand not wanting negative comments. Instead of just trash talking, they should at least offer an idea. Maybe say, " I wouldn't do it that way. I would do it this way. What do you think?" I don't mind those. Seriously, I have a harder time being creative with my house than with someone else's. As for that wall, I would do the crazy art work on the wall. Although, I am kinda getting into the winter mode. I am like you. I remove everything for the summer and want piles of stuff around when it gets cold. Not too many piles, though. With 5 kids, they don't last too well...! ;0)
I with you, I like a mix, and my desires change with the seasons. I think you're heading in a great direction with a bookshelf heavy with things you love in a room that's more sparse. if you get tired of it, you can always take away -- that's the beauty!
I so dislike negative comments. didn't his/her mother tell her that if she didn't have anything nice to say, not to say anything at all?? I agree, this should be a happy place! it's not life or death, it's just paint colors!
I loved your book shelf. I also struggle with simple or color and fun! I am built a house and its so over whelming decorating. We moved in last night and I am struggling about patterned curtains or solid, etc!
I am fighting myself with the same problem right now..and totally agree that as the cooler weather comes I want more layers and coziness-then when it's hotter I want less..Maybe you should try to find a middle ground somehow?..Then if you find yourself still wanting more coziness and layers you can always just add in more! -or take away lol..Trial and success!
btw..I liked your bookshelf lol..and what matters most is that YOU like your bookshelf!! LOL...it's in YOUR home after all isn't it? :D Have a wonderful day!
I hope this is not taken as a negative comment, its meant to express my opinion about your predicament (minimal vs layered). I love your grandmother's wall not only because of the aesthetic but because it is so real and genuine. The photos, the collections, the knickknacks that make up a rich layered room take time, years, kids, travel,dogs etc... I am sure you as a designer can tell the difference between real clutter and styled clutter, it feels fake, engineered, and staged. Be patient, you are young and are just working on a second baby...As to your big wall, how about a monster screen tv? Just kidding. I like the idea of family photos (b&W or toned) in exactly the same size and same simple frames in a linear formation (6 across or 3x2 or 3x3) Its clean but relates to you.
First-That is what I love about design blogs, we are all such a supportive "community" I thought and hardly anybody has anything negative to say. I'm sorry that someone said something negative! I would get so shaken if some one did that to me...
second-I've been feeling really cluttered in my apartment too and thinking of pairing down a little bit. Storage? Not sure but I think you're on the right track with the more organized yet collected look. It feels really right. Go for it especially since you know you're going to be collecting more!
xoxo
Alicia
I love the curiosity shop look as long as it's in someone else's house. First of all I could never make it look good and secondly, i'd have to keep it all dusted and i hate dusting. Ugh.
Sorry to hear about your negative comment. I think it's kind of like a right of passage with blogging. I know I've had it happen and it sounds like lots of other bloggers have too. Unfortunately, it takes the wind out of your sails for a bit. As with everything, you can't please all the people all the time. Luckily it's the exception not the norm.
Keep blogging! Your blog is inspirational!
Don't let the haters get you down! You have an amazing eye and everyone loves your blog, girl! Hugs to you!
re: negative comments - I agree; my Mother always used to say, 'if you haven't got anything nice to say don't say it at all'.
Re: the over mantle dilemma, it would be lovely to have some sort of mirror there, perhaps with antique gold frame, which would bring out the richness in the wooden mantle and just image the wonderful reflected glow of festive candles in the mirror.
Good luck!
Nicely said. Someone would hardly walk into your house and blurt out something like that and, to me, that is what blogs like this are. Little personal pieces of ourselves and our homes and it is downright rude to say anything negative about that. I join the others who suffer with the minimal/collected issue. I love how you are mixing them though and your bookshelf from yesterday inspired me to re-do mine!
lauren, try not to get too bugged out by negative comments. if some douchebag wants to tell you they think your shelves are cluttered fuck 'em. they most likely have an ass for a face and have a lot of hate and anger inside to want to leave that on your blog. i mean at the end of the day, to each his own right?
as for the design dilemma i am right there with you in every possible way. love both looks, but i think too much stuff looks good only editorially. it's a bitch to dust too. i think striking a happy medium is the way to go.
xo
j
I have the same struggle with my house all the time!! Do I want to put all my little stuff away or do I want to get more out and put it around the house? Do I want to get rid of all the crazy color and just do more simple colors? I feel like I deal with some issue around this everyday. I'm interested to hear what everyone else said too- I have to go back and read the comments.
Also, about the negative comments, I say take them with a grain of salt. I know easier said than done, but for the 1,000 of positive comments there is always going to be one that is not so nice. Just know that you daily readers love you and think you are great and super talented. In fact I am going to go as far as saying that I look up to you, a lot actually! I have saved a ton of the pictures that you have posted on here for my own inspiration files, and most of them are from your own home!! xoxox
Hei!
I'd keep it it clean and simple for now, and let the area "grow" naturally as time goes by. Add layers and softness for winter in textures and of course lightening- being able to change the room with soft lightening and candlelight could be enough for now, and give you all the coziness needed for fall and winter. I fear that (kind of)rushing the cluttered/curioso-look easily will end up feeling forced/staged and not truly be made up with things that give you great pleasure and good memories. For me, every object in my rooms should either have a functional purpose or mean something to me/give me joy, and I think this is especially important regarding the look you're contemplating.On the other hand,I think you achieved it beautifully with your bookcase though, so I don't really have any doubt that you could pull this off with this wall as well:-)))
Can't wait to see more!
Hug from Susanne (It says Kurt, but I share my googleaccount with my husband)
Okay, I don't think I've ever commented, but HAD to today. First off, collections vs. clean lines is something I thought only I struggled with. Especially in the kitchen. I don't want "stuff" (no matter how pretty) in my way, but when things are pared down in feels sterile. UGH. I do "controlled chaos" within bookshelves, but otherwise
I need peaceful. 5 kids have enough stuff of there own without my crap....er, treasures, everywhere. It's almost like Christmas time, right? I love for it to come out and make everything warm and cozy, but I can't wait to put it away and for everything to feel nice and simple again. And then I'm sad becasue it feels empty ;)
As for the commenter, poo on them. I've seen plenty of things I don't like, but that's my opinion....something I wouldn't feel necessary to have to force on somebody else as a design rule. You don't like it, move along.
It reminds me of the section in House Beautiful, where they have designers tell their little secrets and what they like to do in rooms, and then right below that they have another designer that says NO WAY would they ever do that. Beauty is subjective. It's a wonderful thing. Otherwise we'd all have the same hairstyle, wear the same colors, live in the same city, buy the same sofa.... If it's right to you, it's right. Unless, of course, anonymous is planning on moving in....
I hate those anonymous comments. Negative people use them to hide their identity and spread their misery around. You know your fabulous and so is your sense of style.
Hi Lauren,
I'm new to your blog but I just love it. Every time I post a picture on my blog of something that I have done I take a deep breath hoping it will be well liked. But I know that there is a chance that someone will be honest and say they don't like it. It's a free world and people can say what they want. But by far most everyone is so, so kind they far outnumber the negative. I think the blog world mirrors the real world. Everyone at my work knows I have a blog but no one comments about it. So I'm always left wondering what they think of it or me for that matter. I just have to remember I do this for me and me alone.
Now on to your bookcase. I just absolutely love it. After reading the post yesterday I immediatly sent it to my daughter-in-law who is struggling w/arranging a huge built-in bookcase in their new home. She loved it too. So there you go 2 new admirers in 1 post. Way to go.
Janet
You go girl!! As open as they are, blogs are truly personal and you need to protect that space for you as much as your readers.
You're doing an amazing job with this blog--keep up the fantastic work!
LOVE the bookcase btw!
I have the same struggle as you - I want my home to be interesting, and I hate the feeling of empty spaces, but I also can't stand clutter. I don't know if I will ever find the perfect balance. About the negative comment, interior design is art and beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I think most people in this world would love your work and the meanie that left you that comment must not have good taste, or is an unhappy person with low self esteem.
I don't have a blog but am so jazzed to see and hear what others have to say. I think you hit the nail on the head when you noted that your blog is a spot for you to work out your ideas---soliciting ideas, suggestions and thoughts is key to fully developing an idea. I think what is most troubling and offensive, quite frankly, is that someone would list their statement/opinion as an anon. Everyone should be able to discuss, and if you are afraid of posting your id/name, then there must be something inappropriate or unwanted. Keep working and keep posting---don't let one person's negativity stifle you.
Ahhh, the search for the feeling of relief. You never get it done, it is an amorphous thing. Just be happy in this moment & the dichotomy of both sensibilities makes complete sense. Yin yang.
Danny Thomas sent Marlo a horse bridle as an opening night gift for her Broadway debut with the note,"Run your own race baby, run your own race."
Hi Lauren,
Boy if this topic did not just hit me square in the head! Having just bought a new (very old built in 1865) farmhouse, I am finding that I want this new place to be as fresh and simple as possible. Also, I for one am very tired of collections that are out of hand and look too cluttered. I grew my decorating teeth in the mid 1980's when country clutter was cool and as a antique dealer this was very easy for me to do. So, I think why not do a clean mix that is not too overwhelming? Still enjoy homey comfort but with a dash of minimal design.
Blessings,
Carol
I love your blog - I fight with the same thoughts everyday about more or less and which is the best option for each room! Thanks for posting!
I think as I have gotten older I like a simpler clean uncluttered look. Sure I still love throws and lots of pillows but as far as a lot of stuff everywhere, no. In fact I just spent the last several hours organizing my kitchen and cleaning off countertops. I love a clean simple look...plus I have to dust it all.
I know what you mean about anon comments...I have had several mean ones and yes it bites big time. I no longer allow anon comments on my blog. Sorry they were rude to you.
LeAnn:)
Hi Lauren,
Here's when you get negative comments, when your blog gets big, like yours is! I have received some thinly veiled negative comments and I just think about what Penelope Trunk said, If what you write has everyone nodding like sheep, how boring is that?
What makes your blog unique is your voice, your aesthetic, and your intelligent writing. A negative comment just keeps things real and is a true indication (I think) that you are getting too big for some people.
I loved your bookshelf. It's a BOOKSHELF after all. if you didn't want anything showing it would have doors. I think you did a gorgeous job and frankly (like I tell my clients) the only time minimal works the best is if you have everything hidden behind storage cabinets and then you have the one scuptural piece of art or flower on a long console and that's it.
Hmmmm. . . I have gotten carried away here I see. I say, count them, they are true indication that you are a star :)
It saddens me when I read negative comments I subscribe to Apartment Therapy which posts House Tours where people open up their homes for us (voyeurs in a sense) to look through. I can't believe the nasty comments some people leave. It blows my mind. As you say, as a blogger you are vulnerable. You are doing something that these commenters arent, which is putting yourself out there. Kudos to you, my friend. Don't ever let negative people change you or inhibit you. I love your blog, and it's pretty evident a whole lot of other people do too! Hugs, Lynne
LOL I got so indignant on your behalf I forgot to put my 5 cents worth in re the issue. Speaking from the viewpoint of a mother, I would go with fairly simple but cosy in the meantime to make it easier on yourself while you have young children. Later, it is easy to add things and develop your style further as they grow older and more respectful of your things.
And for the record, I loved your bookshelf.
I loves your bookshelf! Decorating is a personal thing - live with what you love!
I also enjoy seasonal decorating! It fun to live with cluttered in the winter and minimalist in the summer!
xx-Gina
Hi, Lauren,
I have been reading your blog from the beginning and love it! I love the whole concept/foundation of design blogs since they ARE personal between the blog writer and the reader. As a regular reader of your blog, I feel very protective of and kind towards you since you do put yourself out there to share your life and your design philosophy with us. This discussion about how we need to be kind towards each other is amazingly well timed given this week of unusual incivility in the public arena. Anyone who is a regular on the design blogs knows what a nice group of people there are out there. And how no one aesthetic is the RIGHT one. I am so grateful to you for your blog and hope that all of us who are weighing in on the side of civility and kindness will help you forget about the hurtful comment and will help change the perspective of those who might otherwise write something that could be hurtful.
xo
Hi Lauren,
First of all let me say I love your blog! I love that you post photos of your new home and all that you are doing to it! You have great style and taste and are an inspiration to many! I really dont get the negative commenters...you are the third blog this week that I have come across that has had one! If you cannot say something nice...just dont say it! Are you fleaing with Eddie and Jaithan this weekend? I am coming down to go with them on Sunday!
xo,
annie
so much support here, should make you feel good. I think you have some great inspirational photos here. I really like the twig chandelier, wood table and metal chairs in that one photo. Thanks!
Lauren, I struggle with less is more or more is more too. I've always had a love for my stuff & it's hard to pare it down & still have it feel like "my home". I love your bookcases. I tend to do lots on mine too & I just love that look the best. I sometimes try to do a more pared down look & sometimes I succeed & sometimes I don't, but you have a wonderful sense of style, so don't let anyone tell you otherwise. One thing I've found about blogging, you can't please everyone.
I am so in the same boat, I want both. I do think there is a point where you can achieve both.
I remember when my room was put on Apartment therapy, I got blasted. no fun at all.
One thought about negative comments. I block anonymous comments and that seems to totally alleviate the problem as most negative comments seem to be from anonymous cowards. Just a thought. I really enjoy your blog and look forward to meeting you Friday.
How about the minimalist curiosity shop! ;) That sounds like my house!
Well all kinds of great inspiration pics to choose from! These days I definitely find myself more drawn to the minimalist, less cluttered look. But keeping it cozy and having a homey feeling is exactly the challenge! Good luck...
:) T
I have the same dilemma. I love both looks but seem to have gone the crisp, sparse look without realizing it. I think I trust my eye more with sparseness rather than harmonious placed clutter. BUT just today I began mapping out the new salon wall in our den - so perhaps there can be a little of both!
If you are looking for Small Dining Room log on to Spacify.com.
i am from the bamboo home decor , such home feels very comfortable.
Lauren, I had to come back here and tell you about an anonymous comment left right after yours on my post [Gross-I can't believe you used silk flowers] I had to laugh!!
Lauren, I had to come back here and tell you about an anonymous comment left right after yours on my post [Gross-I can't believe you used silk flowers] I had to laugh!!
Hey, Lauren :)
I'm totally with you on the Jekyll and Hyde minimalist vs. eclectic homey look. It's like loving both Belgian and English interiors. What to do? :)
I **think** I'm beginning to get a feel for my own balance as I plan out this remodel. I'm keeping things like walls, floors, and window treatments very neutral. Just like you said, the warmer months = less for me. As the weather cools down, I envision bringing out more "smalls" and more pattern, color, and texture through throws, pillows, and a few slipcover switcheroos. On the walls? That's a tough one. I'm not really tempted to sway whole hog into the minimalist camp, so I think the walls will fall squarely on middle ground in most rooms.
Looking forward to seeing your living room evolve! My own will take a short eternity :]
XO,
Jacci
my favorite thing about your blog (besides that i LOVE your style) is that it's a peek into the regular life of an interior designer. you're fabulous, but you're also real. so many design blogs are full of perfect finished spaces and fancy photography, and reading them often wears me out and makes me feel overwhelmed. i love that you've invited us all on your journey and are sharing your house in process. it helps me understand that i, too, can create a beautiful space, and that it's ok for it to take time. i keep getting really stressed with only being able to accomplish one thing at a time, with not having a finished space. but every day when i read your posts, not only am i inspired by the design eye candy, i'm also inspired by the realistic portrayal of collecting items and decorating a home that you really love. thank you!!
the end ;)
I think your bookshelves look great!
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