I’m homebody. I probably spend at least 90% of my day at home. I work from home, I workout at home, I cook and eat most of my meals at home. And something I’m notice (that many others did during the pandemic) is the environment around me.
I just finished a life-changing book called How to Live with Objects by Jill Singer and Monica Khemsurov.
I've gathered 9 valuable lessons I learned that will change the way you interact with your home and the objects around you.
“What’s an object? We ask ourselves whether it’s ‘well-resolved,’ which means whether it’s a good idea that has no design features we would want to add or take away."
Coherence in design. This is why brand design is such a critical step to a young company’s foundation.
Without intentionality from the beginning, can you communicate your purpose effectively? 🤷♀️
Well-resolved design appeals to both form and function.
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"For designers, the process of making — with its attention to materials, techniques, shapes, and details — is more important to their practice than an overarching concept or narrative."
The design process is where the ✨ magic ✨ happens.
This quote reminded me that focusing on the journey and the intricate details of design can bring more depth and meaning to the final product.
This is important.
Our living spaces are more than just things. They're an extension of ourselves and our journey through life.
Be mindful of the items you choose to surround yourself with and how they reflect your story, personality and aspirations.
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"My house is not just a thing. It's an extension of my physical body and my sense of self that reflects who I was, am and want to be."
*"Homemaking is done bit-by-bit, in a process that you form and layer with your own aesthetic over time."
— Catherine Lock*
I appreciate my mom for teaching me this amazing lesson: Prioritize a home that feels like a home.
Creating a beautiful and personal living space doesn't happen overnight.
It's an ongoing process that evolves as we grow and change. So embrace the journey of homemaking and continually refine your aesthetic over time.
*"Style, all who have it, share one thing: Originality."
— Diana Vreeland*
Don't be afraid to be you! Embrace your unique style and let it shine.
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I learned early on in designing brands for cool brands that the more you try to be like others, the more you “blend in.”
And trust me, that’s not a good thing.
Diana’s quote means originality helps you stand out in a sea of sameness.
I loved the practical advice sprinkled throughout the book, especially when it comes to hunting for unique objects.
Here are some gems I picked up:
*"At estate sales, never forget to look in garages and basements."
— John & Linda Meyers*
*"Move around swiftly, scanning for anything that stands out visually."
— Carmen Nash*
These tips inspired me to be more adventurous in my search for one-of-a-kind treasures. So I went out to my local Goodwill to find this cute little lamp:
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Just a quick note on thrifting ✏️ There’s something really cool about finding objects like this. You know that lamp has a story to tell.
It’s lived far beyond its appearance at that store and in your home.
"Consider this our official endorsement for inviting objects into your space that are enigmatic or even a little bit ugly."
Imperfection can be beautiful and thought-provoking.
Imagine walking into your friend’s home and seeing the most hideous couch you’ve ever seen. You’re going to comment on it!
This quote taught me to embrace that stuff. The quirky, offbeat and uncomfortable items that can add character and depth to a space.
After all, these unique pieces make our homes truly ours.
When it comes to choosing objects to surround yourself with, trust your gut.
Space is important. So fill it with objects that you truly gel with.
If you're drawn to a particular item or design, there's a reason for it. Your intuition can guide you toward pieces that resonate and create an environment for you, its inhabitant.
Every object has a story…
Embrace these stories and let them add depth and meaning to your space. By honoring the narratives behind the objects in our homes, we can create a more meaningful and personal environment.
Ever heard of Victoria van der Laan? She posts a few textile sketches every week on Instagram, and you have to win a raffle to have the opportunity to buy them.
But hold on – There’s a catch. You pay what you wish!
And luckily, I won. So much good color inspiration! I could stare at it all day.
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How to Live with Objects has truly changed my perspective on branding, design and even how I interact with the environment around me.
What do you think? Do you resonate with any of this?
Happy objecting 😇
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