With the release of Rebecca Atwood’s new book Living with Pattern: Color, Texture, and Print at Home, its about time we all got a refresher of inspiration for adding pattern into our lives! In her book, Rebecca describes a space that is layered with patterns and says, “The trick no one tells you is that there is no formula. You just need to keep your eyes open and get specific about what you really love.” The true guide to a space that is uniquely yours is simply discovering what you like and sticking to it. “You don’t need to be a designer—but you do need to learn what you like,” which as most of us know can be difficult when we are surrounded by so much inspiration of other people’s preferences. We can begin to think we like something that we actually don’t because it is currently trending or our friend likes it.
While inspiration isn’t a bad thing, it can distract you from finding your own unique style. Emily Henderson’s master bedroom design, featuring Rebecca Atwood’s blue marble fabric is a great example. This space is so unique and immediately catches your attention because it is unlike anything you have seen before in a typical bedroom. Why is that? Most likely its because Emily chose things that appeal to her and describe her through objects. This room is a representation of her style because as Rebecca says in her book, she figured out what she liked and stuck to it!
So what are you waiting for? Go out and explore! Find the things that you love, even if they aren’t what’s popular and be proud of it. It will take trial and error, and your style will change as you change but give yourself some grace! Before you know it, you’ll be creating spaces that you love because they feel like you. You will begin to confidently portray YOU, and not just the trends that surround you on the day to day.