good design + my style

Many historic buildings were created with "good bones":   tall ceilings and windows, and nicely proportioned rooms, making everything immediately more elegant, which has made this latest remodel so interesting, if a bit intimidating.

Older homes and furniture often were constructed of high quality materials that were made to last -- also part of the "good bones."  Furnishings made to last can be pricey, but can often be found in consignment shops for a fraction of the price of new.  Ikea and Target feature many fun design items at a lower price point, but their furniture can present challenges:  pressed fiberboard furniture and cabinets tend to end up in a landfill after just 1-2 owners, making purchase of higher quality a better value longer term.

While  clean lines and elegant proportions are a staple in good design, not everything need be minimal:  lack of embellishment can make a home feel stark.  Extra detail is always appreciated, and ornate items and finishes can lend a jewel-box aura when they are high quality!  But embellished items can look especially beautiful when combined with simple objects, or contrasted by items and rooms with clean lines -- excitement is always created by contrast.

And, overall, in our homes at least, this all has to happen on a budget -- tricky to be sure; but isn't that challenge part of what makes creating a home fun?  I like to think so!