Why Don't My Clients’ Homes Look Like My Home? 3 Revealing Reasons
To Each Their Own
Some interior designers work within a specific design style. They specialize in a certain “look” and become known for it. People gravitate towards that designer because they want that same look in their own homes. It’s a clear alignment that makes some designers the obvious choice.
You’d probably agree that for a Farmhouse interior, you would hire Joanna Gaines (if money were not an issue). She’s built her empire on this style and she’s known for it far and wide. Likewise, you’d hire Justina Blakenly for a Boho vibe, Bunny Williams for her Traditional look, or Shea McGee if you’re into white-on-white Minimalism. These designers have made names for themselves based on the design styles they love, and their brands and websites reflect that.
What I Love
When you visit my website, you see colors, patterns and flowers because that’s what I vibe with personally. I grew up in the 60’s and 70’s, and that aesthetic has a sweet place in my heart. Not surprisingly, my favorite styles are Boho, Vintage and Eclectic. But orange, purple and aqua aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, so you may not have the same affinity for them as I do, and that’s okay.
What They Love
When you take a look at my portfolio page, however, you see that each project has a different look and style. They’re not 70’s-inspired interiors, or full of bright colors and flowers. Some are Traditional, some are Contemporary, and one of them is straight-up Mid Century Modern. My work doesn’t show the same aesthetic in every project. I’m not known for a particular design style.
Traditional Living Room
Contemporary Sitting Room
Mid-Century Modern Bathroom
Here’s The Deal
You may wonder why my take on style is different:
1. I believe that a good designer is familiar with many different design styles.
2. Style is a matter of individual taste.
3. I don’t want to box myself in.
In my education and experience, I learned about the history of interior design and how styles evolved and responded to the times. I learned the ‘languages’ of these styles, the characteristics that distinguish them from one another, and I want to stay fluent in them. Working with a variety of styles keeps my job interesting and challenging; it’s a big part of my Mixology Method.
I also believe that design style is a matter of individual taste. One person might dig clean lines and neutral colors, while another person lights up with vibrant colors and intricate details.
With every project, I design the room according to my client’s tastes. I love creating a space through the eyes of my clients, so I don’t lay my 70’s aesthetic onto them if that’s not their thing. Because it’s their personal space (not mine), I want my clients to resonate with their own decor.
Until Next Time,
Nan
About Nan
I’m an interior designer who helps people turn their homes into their sanctuaries without the pain of renovating. I’ve been working as a professional designer since 1995 and one thing I love about interior design is how it can evoke a mood and create whatever feeling you want in your space. In that way, it’s kind of magical.
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