Continuing our Nate Berkus week…
I love Nate’s new book, The Things That Matter. It is so much more than a pretty coffee table picture book–I actually wanted to read it because there are some poignant stories (but, don’t worry, still beautiful interiors!) He’s chosen carefully when it comes to the people, homes, objects that he features. The whole premise is that you should surround yourself with things you love and mean something to you–novel right? No, but unfortunately many people are more worried about things looking pretty for others than looking around and saying, geez, I love this room because it says something about ME. They’re NOT mutually exclusive.
An example from the book is how Stylist Kelly Framel of TheGlamourai.com displays her collection of jewelry and belts on dress forms in her bedroom:
if you love something, it doesn’t have to be organized behind closed doors! This image from Nate really sums up my post today:
Today, thought I’d share some of the favorite objects in my house that are directly influenced by my upbringing.
First and foremost, I have my dad’s artwork throughout the house. My dad is a talented painter (in my humble opinion…) and my walls are lucky enough to benefit!
Here’s one I have hanging in my family room
Dad currently has an exhibit going on at the Orange Art Gallery in Ottawa, Ontario (my hometown!) so if you’re in the neighborhood, go check it out. You can see some of his current portrait work on their website too.
Another thing I love, is this ceramic bus from Mexico. My parents bought this about 30 years ago and when I bought my first house in Chicago, they gave it to me as a house warming gift. I love that it says Chicago as its destination–so appropriate for my life! I now have it sitting on the console in my dining room.
On the coffee table in my living room, I have this gorgeous glass bowl. Imbedded inside the glass is melted African beads. This bowl was on my dining room table when I was growing up and reminds me of so many fun dinners with my family and my mother’s love of African jewelry. I love the way the afternoon light hits the bowl and bounces the colors around.
Just a little taste of the things I love. I know a really personal post that you won’t replicate in your own home, but the point is, follow Nate’s lead and display the things that tell your story!
I agree with the other post. Design should evolve and be personal. A statement of what we value in our lives.
great post Tessa – this is exactly how I feel. Things need not be coordinated – it’s the connection to your life that make them meaningful and that resonate in a space.
I loved some of Nate’s points during yesterday’s Twitter chat, especially the one about not following trends and just evolving your space as you go a long. I guess I need to read the book, because I never thought about art/pieces in my home reflecting my upbringing until now – most of the art in my home are African inspired!
I love this post Tessa. So beautifully personal. I also love your tapestries and rugs. They remind me of your roots before Chicago.