We are one month into 2023 and every design magazine, website, and blog is bombarding its readers with the latest trends, what's in, and what's out for 2023. Even here at Ivity Co, we'll be sharing the newest aesthetics and elements with you.
But, how in the world can you keep up year after year?
The truth is - you don't have to (and you shouldn't!)! Trends are in existence to change your space at its core - they're meant to inspire, evolve, and add to the style that already exists in your home.
Creating an ever-lasting style for your home isn't about replicating or going full steam into each new and exciting trend, it's about knowing what you truly like (hello, inner work!) and leaving behind what doesn't vibe with you.
It requires self-exploration, complete honesty, some critical thinking, and a dash of intuition. In time, you'll find a space that ebbs and flows - absorbing only the newest ideas in design that feel right to you, in a way that works for you.
In Design, The Rules Are Meant To Be Broken.
We, as modern-day humans, have been taught and conditioned throughout our lives in a very linear way. We're brought up to believe that everything has logic and a rule to follow. For example, the rule "i" before "e" except after c.
What about the words 'weird', 'reign', and 'leisure'? Rule breakers. Every. Single. One. Of. Them. And rightly so - they're all lovely and break the mold at the core of their definition.
Design as a whole isn't entirely different than the English language. As designers, we're trained that certain characterizations and elements within a space will define it into one particular category or style. We're then taught to create continuity and cohesiveness with that style.
The reality is a home or space designed strictly in one style will ultimately become dated, probably faster than you can photograph the end results! Style is a lot like the "i" before "e" concept. We start with the framework of an aesthetic and then, with an understanding of the basics, take liberties to create something entirely new that resonates.
Let's Review an Example Together. Mid-Century Modern.
The Mid-Century design style is iconic. Characterized by a distinct focus on function over form, minimalist details, bold colors, and mixed materials (think woods, metals, and glass), it was a game-changing evolution of design.
When this style first came into vogue - colors hadn't been used that way before. Furniture pieces were never truly multifunction before. Do you think this happened by following prior styles and trends? Nope. It happened through innovation, experimentation, and a little bit of chance-taking.
If at the core of who you are, clean lines and bold colors are your thing - fantastic, this aesthetic is a great starting point! Do you find yourself hating metals and glass but loving wood? Do you prefer luxe textures of more glam interior spaces? Fantastic. Nix the metal, amp up the texture and maybe throw in some deep jewel tones instead of the primary colors typically used.
Now you've got a style - something that is cohesive, has a language, and is uniquely you. Even more, it's a space that can grow with you for years to come.
How Can You Apply This in Your Own Home?
We've put together some initial steps you can take to start creating a home that feels like a haven, fits your life, and will keep up with your evolving self for years to come.
Find (lots of) images of interior spaces. Start with 30-50 images - there are some great websites for inspiration - Pinterest is always a great option.
Print (yes, print!) the photos. Lay them out, hang them up - whatever works for you.
Grab a sharpie and get to work! Circle, star, or check off everything you like. What are you looking for? Think color, details, scale, materials, space (cluttered or clean?), and pattern for starters - but get as big-picture or detailed as you like.
Review the images and identify the top 3-5 elements you are consistently drawn to and use those as your base palette. Do you love white walls, wood furniture, luxe textures, and lush green plants? Great! These components can become the staples of your space that carry throughout - they're your base language.
From there - sprinkle in everything else you loved in moderation. Off-handed, I love a good 80/20 (ish) balance. 80% of the room is made of those core design elements from step 4 and 20% are the add-ons, personalizations, and extras.
What it all comes down to is trusting yourself through the process. Creating your own design language, something that is uniquely you is a very personal experience.
If it gets overwhelming, we at Ivity Co are here to help and offer design consultation services and can help you determine your unique style, build an aesthetic and transform your home into your own personal haven.
Stay Inspired!
Danielle