Decorating A Happy Home : Interior Design Blog

There have been countless books published on the art of interior design. Every month, there are new installments of decorating magazines on the newsstands. And, in today’s world, we now also have design blogs. There are so many design styles and philosophies. It can be overwhelming! That’s why I have cultivated a very simple approach to interior design. It’s one my clients love and it’s something everyone can embrace: home should make you happy. I think everyone will agree with this idea. The question is, how do you make it happen? I’ll share a few tips:



Don’t fret about “naming” your style: Getting hung up on labels – traditional, contemporary, modern, transition, country, coastal – can be exhausting and confusing. Your style is what you love, what you gravitate towards. For most of us, this is a mix of styles. In fact, mixing traditional pieces (often full of memories) with styles that are more current and contemporary often creates an amazing wow factor.

Don’t always buy new: I am part of the design team at Robb & Stucky. It’s my dream job. So, it sometimes surprises people when I advise that they not buy new furniture. Reupholstering and refinishing well-loved pieces should always be in the consideration set. Surrounding yourself with the things you love – which is fundamental to that happy home we all seek – means connecting with your past through furniture items handed down over years.

Don’t go it alone: As an interior designer, I have a passion for home. I feel fulfilled and satisfied as a person when I help clients find their voice, their style and their look at home. I help clients make good decisions. It’s never about me. It’s about helping the homeowner create that happy home. If you’re starting a design project, it will make the project more fun and more successful if you have a professional in your corner.

Interior design is a labor of love for me. I was awarded my very first “project” many years ago in Rio de Janeiro: every Saturday it was my job to tidy up our family living room. I didn’t mind at all. My work often included a new floor plan, as I moved sofas, chairs, tables and accessories around to try new things. I have some of those very furniture items in my own Florida home today. It connects me with the past and propels me into the future. I am very happy at home. Are you?

ABOUT MONICA KIMBALL:
Monica Kimball seems literally born to be an interior designer (just ask her family or her clients). She recently completed training to take her innate talent and sense of style to the next level. When she’s not designing at Robb & Stucky, she’s painting. Faux finishes are her expertise. Monica is the real thing: a creative, emotional, and detail-oriented. You can reach Monica at 239-415-2890.