Breaking Design Rules With Purpose: A Conversation with “The Nester” Myquillyn Smith
“Break the rules on purpose because we believe the room will look better. Not because we don't know better.” That's the premise of Myquillyn Smith’s new book, “House Rules.” In my conversation with her we pull apart some of these key rules and why they’re so useful, across the board. I love her examples of balancing casual and formal elements, the value of antiques and art, and how decorating with meaningful objects is better than decorating with diamonds. The Slow Style philosophy regarding intentionality, contrast, and patience in home decor comes through loud and clear. I’m so happy to have Myquillyn back on the show!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
In a world where trends in home decor seem to change at lightning speed, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and pressured to keep up with what's "in." However, in a recent conversation with home decor expert Myquillyn Smith, also known as The Nester, we uncovered some invaluable lessons on creating a beautiful home that truly reflects your unique style and values.
Reject Decorating Rules
At the core of Myquillyn's philosophy is a firm pushback against the notion of strict decorating rules. Her latest book, "House Rules," challenges the idea that there is a one-size-fits-all approach to decorating. Instead, her “rules” emphasize the importance of listening to your home and embracing your individuality in the design process.
Embracing Antiques and Personal Art
Myquillyn highlights the significance of incorporating antiques and personal art pieces into our homes. Antiques add a layer of history and character to a space, creating a sense of depth and storytelling. Similarly, creating or repurposing art that holds personal meaning allows us to inject our spaces with a unique touch of creativity and individuality. By being patient and selective in our choices, we can curate a collection of pieces that resonate with us on a deeper level.
Finding Luxury in Simplicity
Intriguingly, Myquillyn redefines luxury by emphasizing the beauty of simplicity and space. She shares a powerful insight about the luxury of having nothing on a wall, allowing the room to breathe and creating a serene atmosphere. By stripping away excess decor and embracing a minimalist approach, we can create a sense of calm and elegance that transcends the need for excess.
The Power of Purposeful Margin
One of the key takeaways from Myquillyn's approach is the concept of purposeful margin. Just as art needs negative space to shine, our homes benefit from areas of simplicity and emptiness. By allowing for intentional margin in our decor, we create visual balance and harmony that elevates the overall aesthetic of our spaces.
Embracing Change and Evolution
Myquillyn's journey through different homes and design styles showcases the beauty of evolution and change in our decor choices. She encourages us to embrace the process of refining our spaces over time, allowing our homes to grow and evolve alongside us. By being open to experimentation and adaptation, we can create living environments that truly reflect who we are and how we've evolved.
Myquillyn's insights offer a refreshing perspective on home decor that goes beyond fleeting trends and into the realm of personal expression and authenticity. By embracing imperfection, individuality, and purposeful design choices, we can create homes that not only look beautiful but also feel deeply meaningful and personal.
So, the next time you find yourself overwhelmed by the latest decor trends, remember the wisdom of The Nester and approach your home with a spirit of creativity, authenticity, and a dash of rebelliousness against the rules. After all, in the world of home decor, beauty truly lies in the imperfections and the unique stories that make a space truly yours.
