What Makes a Home Feel Authentic? Lessons from European Interiors
Design trends come and go, and I’ve noticed that many creatives love to talk about how their work is “inspired by European design” — whether it’s a nod to a French farmhouse or a quaint English cottage. For me, it’s never felt quite that straightforward. I don’t consciously set out to recreate a specific style or follow a design formula. But when I reflect on what draws me in — what truly feels meaningful in a home — it’s the European way of living that resonates deeply.
It’s less about specific design features and more about the philosophy: the way they embrace imperfection, celebrate history, and layer homes with warmth, comfort, and a sense of story. There’s an ease to European interiors — a feeling that homes are meant to be lived in, not staged for display. That idea of creating a space that evolves with time, reflecting the lives lived within its walls, feels more relevant than ever.
1. Imperfection as a Mark of Life
One of the most liberating aspects of European interiors is their embrace of imperfection. French homes, for instance, rarely chase the idea of perfection that’s so common in American design. Instead, they celebrate the beauty of materials that age gracefully — marble that shows signs of wear, linen curtains with a soft texture, and wood floors that creak underfoot.
These signs of life aren’t flaws; they’re markers of history, of time spent in a space. They remind us that a home isn’t meant to be a static showcase, but a dynamic, evolving environment that holds our experiences.
2. The Comfort of Layers
English homes are known for their layered, cozy interiors — thick draperies, well-worn rugs, and armchairs that invite you to curl up with a book. These homes feel like sanctuaries, spaces that nurture and comfort.
In Portland, where the weather often draws us indoors, this layered approach to design feels especially relevant. By surrounding yourself with textures, colors, and objects that bring you comfort, you create a space that invites you to slow down and simply be.
3. Blending Old and New
One of the most striking things about European interiors is how effortlessly they mix the old with the new. In a Parisian apartment, it’s common to see a sleek modern lamp perched on a centuries-old table, or contemporary art displayed against a backdrop of intricate millwork. These contrasts add depth and personality to a home.
Incorporating this approach into your own space doesn’t require grand gestures. It’s about letting your home reflect the life you’ve lived — pairing a family heirloom with a new piece you love or placing a vintage rug under a modern sofa. It’s these juxtapositions that make a space feel unique and personal.
This philosophy has long informed my approach to design. A great example is the Northwest Hills Remodel – Phase II, where vintage elements were carefully preserved and paired with modern updates to honor the home’s character. The result was a space that felt authentic, layered, and deeply personal — a perfect balance of old and new.
4. Design with Meaning
European homes tell stories. They’re filled with objects that carry meaning — not because they’re trendy or expensive, but because they represent a moment, a memory, or a loved one.
As you design your home, think about what you want it to say about your life. What are the items you’ve collected on your travels? What pieces make you feel connected to your past? Design isn’t just about filling a space; it’s about creating a place that feels like home — a space that welcomes you with open arms at the end of the day.
5. Prioritize How Your Home Feels
Perhaps the most valuable lesson from European interiors is that how a room feels is AS important as how it looks to YOU. A truly authentic home isn’t about chasing perfection; it’s about creating a space that feels warm, inviting, and deeply personal.
Instead of aiming for flawless aesthetics, consider how your home makes you feel. Are you comfortable? Do you feel at peace? Can you sit in your favorite chair and let the world fall away? These are the questions that matter most when designing a home that feels authentic.
Final Thoughts
At Lord Design, we believe that the best homes aren’t perfect; they’re deeply personal. They reflect the lives of the people who live there, with all their quirks, stories, and histories.
So, as you think about your own space, resist the urge to make everything perfect. Instead, let your home evolve naturally over time. Embrace the imperfections, layer them with warmth and meaning, and trust that it will become the most authentic version of itself — just like you.