Take time to fit in before diving in
I had the pleasure of doing a consultation for a new client that came to me through a magazine article. Touring the home, I had a strange feeling of disconnection between the home, the furnishings and the people. I learned they had just moved in a month earlier and were still getting used to their new surroundings.
The canvas of the house – the paint on the walls and the floor coverings – were chosen by the previous owner. The new family brought their furniture and accessories into the home. The two styles had no relationship to each other and didn’t work together.
The wife was aware of this and was anxious to get started making the changes necessary to express her style in her new home. She had a strong heritage which she expressed through her furniture and accessories. It was also very important for her to put her heart into her home.
Her husband had some different ideas that she believed were in conflict with hers. Fortunately, he was able to join us and we were able to work through the differences. He had also just moved into a new office and was feeling the discomfort of change there, too.
Although their styles were different, their goals were the same, and they both craved feeling the essence of their family that they wanted to create together in their new home. I call this 1+1=3. Joining two people with different tastes can result in an outcome that is unique and special for them.
Before giving suggestions, I needed a sense about how they each wanted to live. To my surprise, I found myself struggling and wondered why. After asking many questions, we all realized that they were not sure what they wanted or how they wanted to set up the home for their family and personal living.
After reviewing their options and design possibilities, I suggested they wait about three months from the time they moved into the house before making any decisions. Waiting would help determine how the house worked for them, what they liked best and what was missing. They were very relieved not to have to make any decisions when they did not feel ready to do so.
Most often, clients hate to hear that it’s best to wait. It can be the most difficult thing to do and it can also be the most rewarding. This way, you are sure to make decisions from a place of knowing and experience instead of having to guess as to the outcome. The results will be what you really need and want.
It takes time to come to understand a new environment and how you fit into it. Since each space affects us differently, we need to tune in to our sensitivities and reactions. Houses may not have feelings, yet they have a definite structure that dictates how to combine styles, colors, textures and shapes. We have to see how we relate and can function in those parameters. If we can’t, we have to look at why and see what changes have to be made to give us comfort and connection in our homes.
Remember, rooms have no feelings, YOU do!