First Step to Creating a Beautiful Home

As an Interior Decorator, I’m often asked to give suggestions for creating a more beautiful home, and in a lot of cases the first thing I think of is “decluttering”.

I’m serious.  Many people simply have too much “stuff” and while some of it may be lovely, it’s impossible to see the most beautiful pieces because the sheer volume of items is way too distracting.

Here’s an example of a basement family room which started out with so much clutter you could barely see the T.V.:

And here’s what the room looked like after a big clear out of the clutter, a fresh coat of paint, some new furniture, and a few decorative touches:

“After” — Design by Lesley Arnould, Embellished Interiors

William Morris, a famous English architect, believed that you should not have anything in your home that is not beautiful or functional.  Of course this is easier said than done but if you keep this premise in mind when deciding what to keep and what to let go of you will begin to become more discerning about the items you place in your rooms.

In her book  Clear Your Clutter with Feng Shui, Karen Kingston wrote, “You are connected to everything you own by fine strands of energy.  When your home is filled with things you love or use well it becomes an incredible source of support and nourishment for you.  Clutter on the other hand, drags your energy down…when you get rid of everything that has no real meaning or significance for you, you literally feel lighter in body mind and spirit.”

I really believe if we choose carefully and mindfully the things with which we surround ourselves, our homes will be beautiful and feel more harmonious and tranquil.

Someone who really takes decluttering to a whole other level is Martha Stewart, and whether you’re a fan or not, you have to admit Martha really is the Queen of Home Organization. Check out her linen closet below:

Even if we all can’t reach Martha’s standards (and they are so high that most of us can’t) Spring is a great time to clear out some of the clutter and let the fresh air into your home.  As Karen Kingston so aptly put it, “Clearing the clutter allows the fresh winds of inspiration to enter your home and your life.”

So, take the next step in making your home more beautiful by tackling a cluttered area in your home.  You’ll feel better, and Martha will be proud of you!

If you need help in taking the first step in beautifying your home, please contact Embellished Interiors for a consultation.

Linen Closet — marthastewart.com