Infusing Elegance and Calm into Your Home Design

My childhood home was a whirl of creativity — a beautiful storm that was as inspiring as it was chaotic. In the midst of all that energy, I craved a quiet corner, a haven where I could simply be. That longing has shaped my approach to design.

For me, it's not just about creating a visually pleasing space. It's about crafting a sanctuary, a personal refuge where you can shed the stresses of the day, recharge your spirit, and feel profoundly at home. It's about decluttering not just your space, but your mind, choosing colors that soothe your soul, and surrounding yourself with elements that spark joy and serenity within you.

I thought, this month, I'd share a few ways you can encourage a calming atmosphere in your home, without a complete overhaul redesign. Some of my favorite concepts and trinkets to bring a breath of fresh air and cozy comfort into your home. 

BRINGING NATURE IN

Bring the outdoors in! Incorporate natural elements into your decor or add houseplants to freshen up your space. Simple and never overstated. Annuals and succulents are some of my favorites because they are effortless to care for and bring a natural energy inside. 

If you haven't visited yet, take a trip to Pistils Nursery downtown — local PDX shop with incredible wall plant hangers! This fabulous Shop was featured on the Magnolia Network’s Storefront Stories!

And of course I can't mention plants or wall hangers without mentioning Carter & Rose, one of my all time favorite PDX shops!

MINDFUL LIGHTING 

I love dimmers. With our beloved incandescent lightbulbs going away, it’s been tough to find lightbulbs that mimic the warm light and that dim. When looking for bulbs, be sure to look for Kelvin Temperatures in the 2700 range and always shoot for dimmable bulbs.

You also need to make sure your switches are LED dim-compatible. It’s a little complicated but well worth it. Soft, flattering light that you can control helps you to set the mood you need and take sharp glare out of your day.

Online 1000Bulbs.com is a great source to find exactly what you are looking for. Locally, Sunlan Lighting (just Down the road from Pistils!) is a great source and a very unique shopping experience. 

(EFFORTLESSLY) CLEAN UP THE CLUTTER

Have you noticed that our homes mirror our minds? A cluttered space can reflect a cluttered mind. But here's a secret - the key to a serene home isn't having less, it's storing smarter.

Smart storage is about creating a system where everything has a place, making tidying up a cinch. Think of a console table with compartments for your mail and keys, or kitchen cabinets designed for easy access to pots and pans. It's not just about buying containers or furniture. It's about looking at your space with fresh eyes and asking, "How can I make this work better for me?"

Portland-Owned Made Trade sells sustainable and fair trade storage baskets for blankets, toys, or to store your keys right when you walk through the front door! 

'Til Next Time — Arlene