The famous British interior designer, William Morris, stated, “If you want a golden rule that will fit everything, this is it: Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.”
I grew up in houses full of stuff. Having travelled and lived in different cultures, countries and cities, my parents amassed an adhoc collection of original African masks and beads, English china including Toby jugs and mixed it with other collections such as Italian ruby red glassware. And they continue to collect. My mother has a Welsh dresser absolutely full of white and blue china. Just when I thought they had stopped, she has recently developed a liking for butterfly and dragonfly brooches – which I admit I do love as most are Art Deco style.
I decided once to try minimalism. We put ornaments and decor away, donated cushions and other items and sold off our furniture having sold our Australian Kelly cottage. We had moved in to a Neo-Georgian house with elegant windows, wooden floorboards and a modern black and white kitchen and neutral bathroom. After a month, we realised that it was not for us. The space felt empty and soulless. Yes, I admire those who can do this but I like to kick off my shoes and pull my feet under me on a sofa, My husband leaves piles of books in different places . We missed our stuff.
Semi-Minimalism
We have opted to go 50% of the way. This means less stuff and giving away items. We followed the three piles principle of one pile to keep, one to donate/give away and a third pile to throw away. Much harder to do than it sounds but once you get going, it is therapeutic! It also means clever storage and we bought trunks and cabinets for easy storage. By decluttering and clearing out, we could actually see what we had.
Seasons
Another friend changes over bed linen and decor for winter and summer. I have started to do that and it is very satisfying. The throws and heavier accessories and darker colours come out in autumn to add warmth and a sense of cosiness. In spring, we change to lighter textures and colours to welcome the sun.
