I love rooms that feel playful and light-hearted, especially when they include a subtle quirky touch. A whimsical approach brings character and personality to a home, while avoiding the pretension or stiffness that can creep into design. As we grow older we sometimes lose that childhood sense of wonder, and while some prefer a more serious “grown-up” aesthetic, others want to keep a sense of youthful delight and express it through their surroundings.
Sometimes whimsical details are obvious at first glance; other times they’re a pleasant surprise discovered as you explore a room. Either way, those unexpected elements make a space feel joyful and personal.
Whimsical decor isn’t for everyone, but I find it fun. Over the years we’ve added playful touches to every home—through pops of color, pattern, and carefully chosen accessories. Below are a few examples from past homes and a peek at our plans for the current one.
Some long-time readers might remember the DIY map wallpaper I installed in a small hall. It was a spur-of-the-moment idea, and often those impulsive choices produce the most charming, whimsical results. If you overthink it, you might never try.
I fell for these curtains years ago and have moved them from house to house. Their colorful pattern feels inherently whimsical. I haven’t found the perfect spot for them in our current home yet, but they’ll show up—likely in an upstairs bedroom or hallway.
Another way to introduce whimsy is to embrace childlike delight—animals are a favorite of mine. We use animal figurines, lamps, drawer pulls, and artwork to add charm without feeling juvenile. Even though our home is adult, that doesn’t mean it needs to be overly serious. We simply apply restraint and select whimsical items that maintain a sense of refinement so they complement the overall design.
A quirky detail I added in our previous home was a bunny door knocker on the front door. Small touches like that make a house feel like you. They’re personal and memorable without overwhelming the space.
I like to tell a story through decor. Since animals inspire me, I often imagine a scene—meadow, enchanted garden, or fairytale setting—and choose accessories that build that narrative. When pieces contribute to a cohesive scene, the result feels thoughtful and playful.
Coastal motifs also play a big role in how I decorate. Living by the sea has deepened my love of coastal art and accessories. Even before we moved to the shore, I used these elements to imagine a quaint seaside setting—and now that we truly live on the coast, those influences feel especially fitting.
Scalloped shapes always read slightly whimsical to me. A scalloped rattan tray and a blue-and-white scalloped pitcher bring a subtle, cheerful character to a vignette. Little details like wooden whale-tail spreaders tucked into a pitcher bring a smile and enhance the coastal story.
We recently completed a remodel and are about to begin decorating. We intentionally used traditional, timeless elements as a backdrop so our seasonal and whimsical touches can evolve. Some whimsical choices will be obvious, while others will be quiet surprises that only we know the story behind. At the end of the day, decorating is about how your home feels to you, not what others think.
We’ve already chosen a “style-setting” fabric that will guide our palette: blues, greens, golds, whites, and a soft blush. With that foundation, I’m excited to bring in accessories and layer texture and pattern for each season.
Do you enjoy whimsical decorating? What are your favorite ways to add playfulness to a room?
Whimsical Decor:
Sources: Meadow print // Whale platter // Neutral floral rug // Bunny wallpaper // Scallop pillow (color options) // Animal dessert plates // Accent chair // Blue table lamp set // Star light sconce // Scallop rattan tray // Polka dot basket // Spiral candle
2 Mood Boards for Our Home (with a touch of whimsy):
Sources for the left mood board /// Sources for the right mood board
More Whimsical Decor (click images for details):
Related Posts:
5 Whimsical Happy Rooms: Sunday Strolls & Scrolls
Bunny Accessories I Love
How to Decorate to Bring Happiness to Your Home
Inspired By: Scalloped Patterns in Decor and Furniture