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Design Your Way Into a Home Filled With Personality


Gold candle holder and green bold wallpaper
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I may be scarred from so many years of greige interiors - white kitchens, Agreeable Gray on the walls, gray furniture, LVP flooring in whatever shade of grayish wood was on sale... no offense - I was guilty of this too! When I was building my last house, I somehow fell into the trap of the neutral backdrop - which is perfectly fine - but instead of choosing warm neutrals in different shades, I somehow ended up with Repose Gray on most of my walls and that grayish LVP flooring I just mentioned.


That was 2021, and since then I have been on a mission to liven up the spaces in my home, make them warmer and more inviting, give them personality, bring in color & patterns and make bold design choices that I love. And I'm here to help you do the same - even if you are slightly hesitant!


Collage of colorful home decor items: pillows, rugs, artwork. Text: "Give your home some personality." URL: stacywardhome.com.

Here is a step-by-step guide to get started:


  1. Start Small for Big Impact. Choose one unexpected item - either a color or style - that you typically wouldn't choose.


When you’re looking to inject personality into your home, starting small can be incredibly effective. Focus on one room or even a single corner of a room. This approach allows you to experiment and refine your style without feeling overwhelmed by a complete overhaul.


sculptural candle holders
Inner Child sculptural candle holders

By starting with a small space, you can test out different ideas and see what truly resonates with you. Perhaps it's adding a unique lamp that casts a warm glow or incorporating a quirky piece of furniture that catches the eye. Small changes can lead to significant transformations, setting the foundation for a home that feels distinctly yours.


Velvet bumble bee pillow cover
Velvet bumble bee pillow cover

Furthermore, working on a smaller scale gives you the freedom to make mistakes without the pressure. It’s easier to repaint a single wall or swap out accessories in one corner than to redo an entire room. This flexibility encourages creativity and helps you develop a deeper understanding of your personal style.


Gold wall candle sconce
Antique Art Deco wall candle sconce


  1. Add One Color to Make a Statement. And make it a color you don't typically choose but have always loved.


Color is a powerful tool in home decor, capable of altering the mood of a space and reflecting your personality with ease. To begin, choose one color that you love and use it to make a statement in your home. This doesn't mean you have to repaint your walls; instead, consider incorporating this color through accessories, artwork, or textiles.


Revival ombre wool rug rust color
Revival ombre rust-colored rug

For instance, if you are drawn to the calming effect of oranges, introduce it with cushions, throws, or a piece of art. This approach allows you to infuse the space with personality without overwhelming it. The key is to balance the chosen color with neutral tones, allowing it to stand out without being overpowering.


Zebra pillow cover in pink
Zebra pillow cover in pink

Adding a single color can also serve as a unifying element throughout your home. By repeating this color in various rooms, you create a cohesive flow that enhances the sense of harmony within your living space. It becomes a signature element that ties everything together while adding depth and character.


Red koi print
Red koi print

Etsy design ideas and inspiration


  1. Shop Locally, Handmade, & Etsy for Unique Finds. You may already have a piece in your home that can be better showcased.


One of the best ways to add personality to your home is by incorporating unique pieces that tell a story. Shopping locally, perusing handmade markets, and exploring platforms like Etsy can uncover treasures that reflect your taste and support independent artisans. These items often have a charm and character that mass-produced goods lack.



Rainbow handmade ceramic vase
Rainbow handmade ceramic vase

When you source items locally or from independent creators, you bring a piece of their story into your home. Whether it’s a handcrafted vase from a local potter or a vintage map from a nearby thrift store, these pieces come with a history that enriches your space. Plus, knowing the story behind each item adds a layer of meaning and connection.


hand-marbled picture frame green and blue
Inner Child hand-marbled picture frame

Etsy is a great resource for finding unique, personalized pieces that fit your style. From custom-made furniture to bespoke art prints, the options are endless. Supporting artisans not only adds character to your home but also fosters a sense of community, making your decor choices feel more personal and intentional.


Fashion Week fun art print
Fashion Week fun art print

  1. Embrace Pattern to Add Depth and Interest. And dare to go bold!


Patterns are a fantastic way to introduce personality and interest to any space. Whether you're drawn to bold geometrics, delicate florals, or classic stripes, patterns can add vibrancy and depth to your home decor. The key is to strike a balance so that patterns complement rather than overpower your space.


Fable Wallpaper in Emerald
Fable Wallpaper in Emerald

Start by incorporating patterned elements in small doses. Consider using patterned throw pillows, rugs, or curtains to bring life to a neutral room. Mixing different patterns can also be effective, as long as you maintain a cohesive color palette. This approach allows you to express your style while keeping the overall look harmonious.


Revival checkerboard rug
Revival checkerboard rug

Don't be afraid to experiment with patterns in unexpected places. A patterned backsplash in the kitchen or a feature wall in the living room can become a focal point, drawing the eye and creating a sense of intrigue. Patterns are versatile and can be tailored to reflect both bold and subtle personalities.


Clarence House wallpaper
I love the pattern of this wallpaper in my powder room!

  1. Don’t Follow Trends, Follow Your Heart. If there's one thing I've learned from the gray debacle, it's to NOT follow the trends.


The world of home decor is constantly evolving, with trends that come and go like the seasons. While these trends can offer inspiration, it’s important to prioritize your own preferences when decorating your home. Following your heart over fleeting trends ensures that your space remains meaningful and timeless.


People in the Water blue wallpaper
People in the Water wallpaper

Decorating according to personal taste allows you to create a home that is uniquely yours. Instead of focusing on what's popular, consider what truly makes you happy. This might mean displaying your favorite collections, such as vintage cameras or travel souvenirs, or choosing unconventional colors and textures that speak to your soul.


Hand Painted Whimsical Tiger Print
Hand Painted Whimsical Tiger Print

By focusing on your preferences, you also save yourself the trouble of redecorating every time a trend fades. Timelessness is found in authenticity, and when you design a space that aligns with your identity, it remains a source of comfort and joy for years to come.


Chinoiserie print Roman shade
I had this Roman shade made on Etsy to match a throw pillow in the same fabric.


  1. Add Textiles for Comfort and Character. Again, try something daring or unexpected with your textiles.


Textiles are the unsung heroes of home decor, offering both comfort and character. From plush throw blankets to soft area rugs, textiles add layers of warmth and texture to your space, making it feel inviting and lived-in.


Revival sunset ombre rug multi-color
Revival sunset ombre rug

Start by exploring different fabric types and textures, such as wool, linen, or cotton. Each material brings its own unique aesthetic, enhancing the personality of your space. For example, a chunky knit blanket draped over a sofa adds coziness, while sheer linen curtains bring a touch of elegance and lightness.


Tattoo tigers throw blanket
Tattoo tigers throw blanket

Layering textiles is another effective way to add depth and visual interest. Mix and match various textures and patterns to create a rich, tactile environment. This approach not only enhances the physical comfort of your home but also provides a canvas for expressing your personal style.


Family room with bright colors
I adjusted my color scheme a bit before I sold my house, but I wanted to keep the bright turquoise and the oranges.

  1. Light Up Your Home with Personality. Lighting fixtures are one of the best ways to inject personality into your home IMO. Have FUN with your lighting!!


Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood and highlighting the personality of your home. The right lighting can transform a space, creating a welcoming and comfortable environment that caters to various activities and emotions.


Vintage pendant light green
Vintage pendant light

Consider layering different types of lighting, such as ambient, task, and accent lighting, to achieve the desired effect. Use dimmable lights to adjust the brightness according to the time of day or occasion. This flexibility allows you to create the perfect ambiance for relaxation, work, or entertaining.


Two-globe arc pendant
Two-globe arc pendant

Opt for unique lighting fixtures that reflect your style and add character to your space. Whether it’s a statement pendant light or vintage table lamps, these elements become functional art pieces that enhance the personality of your home.


Handmade orange table lamp with scalloped shade
Handmade orange table lamp

Pink light fixture
One of my favorite light fixtures ever, from Stray Dog Designs.

Ready to make more bold design choices? Let's chat! stacy@stacywardhome.com

 

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