Defining My Style

I was a teenager when I took on my first design project. I bought lots of pizza and held a sponge painting party with  some of my friends. We painted my bedroom then stenciled the moon and stars in stripes around the room. Although stenciling was quite popular at the time it really wasn't widely accepted to do it in stripes. My concept for that little design project was sleeping under the moon in stars in a bed of roses. Back then I knew nothing about color theory or how to work with pattern and had absolutely no clue how to create a vignette or that a properly laid carpet needs padding or that flea markets and yard sales are a perfectly acceptable place to find usable decorative objects especially when your strapped for cash. But everyone has to start somewhere.

I have come a long way since that first project and have finally defined my style. I have always gravitated toward natural elements. And even in that first rudimentary design, I knew that I wanted to work to bring the outside in.

Today, I would define my style as shabby french farmhouse with lots of exposed beams, brick, or stone which add a strong rustic influence. That's right, Shabby french country farmhouse to me is NOT ruffles, painted vintage and crystal chandeliers! And of course the more I can bring the outside in, the more at home I feel.

Here are some images I have collected that give a rough guide to my style influences.

I would use these bottom cabinets with an apron front farmhouse sink.

From Aesthetically-Thinking.blogspot.com

In lieu of upper cabinets I would love these open shelves on beadboard paneling with lots of white accessories and that little splash of greenery.

From Greenwellies.tumblr.com

I would carry that beadboard right around the room. I love everything about this little window seat. The little touch of blush pink (or coral depending who you talk to) all the white, and greenery. I would probably switch out the little window box planter with something made from reclaimed wood like the cabinets.

Found on Desdemventana.blogspot.com

Of course there would be exposed beams running throughout the space. I just LOVE the rough brick stairs. In stead of decorating these walls with pitchforks, I would love to see some rounded niches running up the stairs that I would decorate with a beautiful candlescape.

From Midwest Living

In the livingroom, I would definitely have to have exposed beams and stone. The furniture though would definitely have to go. 

I would probably change it out for this mid-century sofa and chairs because I just love the lines. But I would reupholster them in a washable durable off-white solid fabric.

From Country Living

From Dotandbo.com

And I would switch out the ottoman in the picture for something with a rustic natural element like this one.

From JossandMain.com

 I love how this light fixture has a rustic industrial feel to it with its structure and weathered finish

Expressing my inner style unleashes a freedom that is difficult to suppress. I have come up against many doubters over the years. And those doubts have beaten down my desire to try.

Until now.

I invite you to follow me as I learn to share my creativity, passion and growth.