Finding your aesthetic Identifying what you love is the number one component in creating a home that you’ll love.  We live in very exciting times when it comes to interiors as we can buy from any corner of the globe. There are a few key aesthetics out there that it’s worth being aware of as its crucial to identify the core aspects of each one in order to develop your own sense of style.  You’ll probably want to blend different elements from various styles and eras.  Let’s go through some of the styles and focus on their key elements.  This will allow you to identify the bits that you love. Scandinavian: Probably my least favourite. Predominantly pale wood and white walls.  A combination of beauty, simplicity and (my least favourite part) functionality.  Generally a very neutral heavy palette; streamlined and ultra clean.  Playful colours are peppered in but in general it’s very understated.  It’s become so popular because it’s actually a very easy way to decorate and doesn’t need too much consideration as to create this minimal unfussy look is pretty simple.  Traditional: These are pretty timeless and take their cue from 18th and 19th centuries.  Often viewed as being boring or staid, this style consistently creates calm, orderly spaces.  Symmetry plays a big part, woods are dark, and rich colours adorn walls and elaborate ornate details and fabrics are luxe, think silk or velvet.  It’s a very structural style which is why I like it best when used in combination with more modern styles.  Industrial: Championing raw and rustic elements, think exposed steel, distressed wood, copper accents and exposed bulbs.  It’s a warm warehouse look that celebrates manufacturing and mechanical ingenuity with an appreciation of raw unfinished surfaces like concrete and timber trusses.  Mid Century Modern: Characterized by organic shapes, minimalist silhouettes and refined lines. It’s a highly desired style and relevant materials include moulded plastic, plywood and aluminium.  It’s fuss free and I’m constantly dipping into this style.  French Provincial: Warm style, colours are often earthy, woods abound and there is an overarching farmhouse style.  Natural inspiration is abundant as are soft linens and lots of texture.  Boho Style: Reflects a carefree vibe with few rules.  Think globally inspired pieces mixed with vintage finds.  Its eclectic, warm, super-cosy style.  I love it as there is a laissez-faire attitude that goes along with it, the perfect match for maximalist interiors.  Eclectic: Interiors that incorporate elements from various cultures and all of the styles mentioned above.  It’s the hardest to pull off and, as with maximalist interiors, it’s the thoughtful editing and the linking of disparate elements through texture, material, style and colour that make it work. So once you’ve considered all of the above styles and identified the aspects you love it’s always worth remembering too that your home will never be finished.  You will always add or take away.  This is what I love about maximalist interiors, they are never locked into one single style, they look and feel constantly switched up and are forever evolving. Another point to consider is that you ARE going to make the odd mistake along the way.  Decorating in a maximalist, eclectic fashion is one of the hardest things to do and I make mistakes all the time.  However, from mistakes we learn and evolve and we need to enjoy the process and the journey.  Having confidence in your own style means that you will create a home that YOU love.  A home that oozes your personality but most of all a home that makes you feel exactly how you want it to.  So throw away the rule book, forget trends and trust your heart.  Happy decorating.