I learned a long time ago the secret to creating a timeless home – one that will always be in style and that fits me perfectly.  The secret is being slow.  Gathering pieces you love and taking years to do it.  Winning the race at a turtle’s pace.

The Secret To Creating A Timeless Home

Using a vintage mantel to create a focal point in the dining room is one of my favorite timeless looks.

I like immediate gratification, so the plan can feel laborious at times.  But as the months and years go by, you begin to understand that patience is satisfying.  That having a goal can be invigorating because each time you are out and about, you aren’t buying what’s trendy.  You are collecting what makes you smile and expressing yourself in a way that isn’t trite.

Then one day, you realize, you’ve created your niche!

Mixing old French pieces in your home adds character.

Compare a model home or a house that is staged to sell.  They are usually well-presented as they try and appeal to the masses.  But there lies the problem.  To have a timeless home, you don’t want a mass-produced look.  One that you can put together in a couple of days.  You need a home with character and personality.  A home that represents your family, no matter how quirky.

Turning everyday coasters into artwork can be a timeless look.

By taking your time and dwelling in your home, you can evaluate how you live and consider your needs. That reflection helps you make thoughtful decisions, not only about function but also about how you want your space to feel.

Using a desk as a sideboard in the dining room.

Going at a turtle’s pace also helps us feel better about our homes.  We aren’t trying to keep up with the Joneses, so to speak, or feeling inferior as we scroll through social media.  Social media turns into inspiration.

I love using a vintage iron bench for a coffee table.

You probably already have your large pieces.  Like a sofa, tables, bed, dresser, etc., but if not, start there.  Buy only what you love and consider spending a little more for large, basic pieces if you plan to keep them around.  I like change so I don’t spend a lot for a sofa or anything else for that matter.  That way I don’t feel guilty when I want to replace something.

Funny soaps can show off your disposition.

When filling your home with rugs, artwork, lamps, and accessories, don’t worry about the wall color.  You can always change that.  Many times, if you have a home filled with treasures, you don’t even notice the wall color.  However, it’s worth noting that when the paint flows from room to room, it looks cohesive and can also be inspirational.

Personality is as easy as changing a lamp finial.

I can’t stress enough that it can take years to complete this undertaking.  Our first house took me 13 years to get it “finished”.  It wasn’t really finished.  Every room looked great and I didn’t feel like I wanted to change anything.  Then we sold it, moved, and started over.  The house we are in now has gone through many changes and will probably never be finished.  I bet I’ll die here and my kids will curse my name for having left so much stuff.

A love for vintage plates that get used weekly.

But the stuff is so cute!  I tease them and say this house will have the estate sale of the century!  Ask yourself these questions as you’re shopping.  Do you love it?  Does the piece say something to you or about you?  Does it give your home personality or is it a piece to fill an empty spot?  Can you not stop thinking about it?  Then you should probably get it.  Nothing weighs heavier than a big ol’ sack of regret.

Autumn on the entry hutch.

“The Secret To Creating A Timeless Home”

Besides the secret being to take your time decorating your home, it’s also a way of life.  Your goal is to one day be sitting in a room, look around, and realize you’re smiling from ear to ear.  You’ve seen every nook and cranny and can say – I love my home and my home is me.

Happy Decorating Friends!