Ever browse through old photos and find shots of your home that make you cringe a little? That’s basically what happened to me recently when I found a few old pictures of our breakfast nook. The photos were taken probably 4 months after we moved in and it’s very clear that I was struggling with the space. In all honestly, I had no idea what I was doing. And it showed. But fast forward a few years and the breakfast nook is one of my favorite rooms in our home. Plus, it pretty much epitomizes my design style. The difference in these photos is pretty crazy, so I thought it would be fun to compare them and chat about how I found my design style.
To how it looks now:
Big difference, right?! This is the result of a lot of trial and error my friends. And really, this transformation is simply about figuring out what I love while taking time to slowly (and intentionally!) make those changes.
The Secret Sauce to Finding Your Design Style
In the process of transforming this breakfast nook, I took time to learn about what I’m drawn to in decor and design. And honestly, that’s THE best way to figure out your own design style. It’s not rocket science–it’s basically just putting the time in to research different styles. Look at design magazines, Pinterest, and even other blogs to find what you like. There’s modern, rustic, industrial, eclectic, farmhouse, etc. Each style has its own design elements, so just spend a little time figuring what inspires YOU and build from there. It may be a mix of several different styles or one all on its own.
Once you know what you love, you can then start to slowly make those changes in your home. Maybe it’s switching up the wall color, or adding in more texture and wood elements like I did in this breakfast nook. It doesn’t all have to be done at once–it’s definitely a process that takes time and intention!
My Best Tip for Creating a Home You Love
I also highly recommend adopting a new strategy when it comes to buying decor or furniture for your home. For me personally I always ask myself if I truly LOVE something before I purchase it and bring it into our home. So that means even if I find an amazing sale on something, like a random knick knack that’s marked 50% off, I won’t buy it unless I absolutely love it and can see myself using it in our home for years to come. This process allows me to fill our home with timeless pieces instead of cute things I only feel so-so about. I promise you, being more intentional will make it MUCH easier to create a home you love with things that truly speak to your heart.
Well I hope you found this post helpful if you’re struggling to figure out your own design style. Above all, be patient and know that it doesn’t happen overnight. It’s definitely a trial and error process and it takes time to find your stride. Also don’t be afraid to make changes if you don’t end up loving something like you thought you would. I’ve done that many times and it’s always better to re-do something so you’re happy with it instead of living with something you don’t love. Make sense?! Anyway, thanks so much for dropping by the blog today! xoxo !
PIN FOR LATER:
You never disappoint ! I love that you do before and after pictures. It helps me see how even small changes (like the light fixture for only $5) can change the look of a space.
I think before and after photos are so helpful too Marilyn. Plus it’s fun to see how far things have come! xoxo
This breakfast nook looks amazing, love the bigger table and bench, everything light and bright, so welcoming! Best wishes.
Thank you Beth, it’s definitely come a long way!
love your comment on style…and I love yours!
Thank you Michele!
Just signed up to your newsletter last week and everyday have been reading your post..your advice is so helpful. You give great ideas and give ways to get things done or how to achieve goals we have. Love your posts and thanks for your time. Look forward to what’s coming!!!!!
Oh yay! SO glad you signed up for the newsletter Ann. And I’m thrilled to hear you’ve been enjoying the blog–thank you so much!
You are the cutest thing since the color pink. And oh do I relate! Great advice on not buying something unless you love it. Can hardly believe you did that plank wall by yourself. You amaze me. Have a great weekend!
haha! Cindy you just brought a huge smile to my face! Thank you for your sweet words, you are too kind!!
Great tips here. I’m finally figuring out what my style is. It’s so funny because I get inspired by others, but then when I try to “copy” instead of “create” it just doesn’t work for me. I’m really figuring out how to mix farmhouse, modern, and boho… 🙂
You’re right Chelsea, what looks great in one person’s home doesn’t always look good in another. It’s definitely a process, but I’m all about finding your own groove!
Thanks! Great advice and very helpful!
Love the planked wall! I am in my late 50’s and styles change over the years and we as people change! I have always loved antiques, but used to have lots of “stuff” sitting on tables etc. Now I prefer a less cluttered look…..less to dust too 🙂 Love your style!!
Totally agree Mary, our styles change as we change over time. It seems to always evolve and improve as time goes on!
To say that you have hit your stride is a serious understatement, you are AMAZING!! Wish I could meet you in person????. (I live in Vermont so we are kinda far apart!)
Aw that’s so kind of you Heather, thank you! Maybe one day I’ll make it to Vermont!
Sarah, absolutely love your style and all you have done. Looks beautiful. I found my style and transitioned to it as of last June when I moved into my house. I love the comfort and cozy feeling it brings and surrounds us with. My only dilemma is I have certain pieces that have been given to me by family members that aren’t in my new style but need to work them in because they mean so much to me. Luv your style and home. Thanks for all the tips.
Terrific article. Very helpful and encouraging. Thank you. I have to say my favorite item is your vintage light.
*Smiles*
Thank you Pamela! I love that light too, I wish I had a tutorial for that. Great little project!
Great tips. I have finally found what I really like. Very few things are brand new in my house. I love to find old things and repurpose them. I need to have a garage sale for all the “stuff” that just did not work. 🙂
haha! You and me both Dawn. I’m planning to get my garage sale done this spring!
Sarah
All I can say is HELP me, come to AZ and help me! Haha! In my dreams right?! I love reading your blog. I feel like I identify with you in a lot of ways. I am 32 a wife and mom. We recently moved into the house we hope to raise our children in. The only problem is, the house is in a 1980’s time warp. Or at least it was, we have been working hard on it. But I found myself nodding my head In agreeance as I read your post about finding my style. I haven’t hit my stride yet, but your blog is helping me! So I guess I’m saying thank you for your blog. It’s helping me find my way to a house I LOVE and one that feels like mine.
Chelsee
P.S. I wasn’t kidding, come to AZ we can yardsale together!
haha! You just brought the biggest smile to my face Chelsee. I’d love to come to AZ and yard sale together. You could show me where to find the best deals! I’m so glad you’ve been enjoying my blog. And high five for giving some love to a 1980’s fixer upper, I know it isn’t easy! Keep up all the hard work.