It is easy to believe that a well-styled home must be full. Full of furniture, full of color, full of decor, full of art…. Yet often, the most striking homes are those where restraint has been practiced.
“What you edit may matter more than what you add.”
Restraint is not about emptiness. It is about choosing carefully. When you give a room space to breathe, the few things you do bring in gain strength. The single antique chest of drawers in our master bedroom has such presence because it isn’t competing with five other antiques. Having the top almost completely clear allows the chest, the painting, and the elegant lamp to speak clearly and harmoniously together.
Making Room for Meaning
When a room is filled with too much, the eye has no place to rest. It can be confusing to know what thing is supposed to be the feature in the room. Even if it is subconscious, your mind wonders: “What is the main point of this room?”
This truth never became more apparent to me than when we began a full house deep purge. We’ve been pretty ruthless (at the time I’m writing this post) have gotten rid of 3,246 items! By limiting your belongings and decor, you create space both physically and mentally that gives peaceful rest to the eye, the mind, and the cleaning to do list! The pattern of the wallpaper, the prettiness of your alabaster lamp, the single bouquet on the dining room table, all become more noticeable.
“Restraint clears away the noise so beauty can be heard.”
Restraint as a Thread
Practicing restraint does not mean every room must be sparse. It simply means each room has been edited with intention. The thread of consistency runs more easily when there is less competing for attention. Your home will also feel peaceful because it is manageable! I’ve enjoyed my home so much more now that we own fewer things. It’s amazing how easily we can find the things we need.
“Restraint is not the absence of style. It is the mark of lasting style.”
Restraint That Endures
Trends come and go quickly, but restraint, especially in decor gives a home longevity of intentional personal style. By avoiding the urge to fill every surface, you leave room for your home to evolve gracefully as you have new experiences. New pieces can be added without disrupting harmony. Old favorites can be kept without feeling cluttered. Until next time, take care,
Rachel
