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HHello—Courtney here. I have a soft spot for quirky animals. I enjoy them in real life (with the notable exception of sloths) and I especially love their presence in fabric patterns and home decor. I also have a fondness for animals in sweaters. Maybe that’s a bit odd, but it’s comforting to see brands like Anthropologie, West Elm, Rifle Paper Co, and World Market bringing that playful spirit into their collections.
I grew up in a home that embraced whimsical animal decor, and my mother still keeps a few amusing pieces scattered around her rooms. Those little touches make a space feel relaxed and approachable. My mom and I share a similar sense of humor—we laugh often, exchange screenshots of funny animals, and post the occasional silly video. Decorating with a wink and a smile fits who we are; it reminds us not to take everything too seriously.
One of my favorite examples is the quirky deer head that hangs in my mom’s office. I spend a lot of time working in that corner, and it wouldn’t feel the same without that whimsical piece above my chair. When we decided to bring him home, my mom laughed and said, “If it’s wrong, I don’t want to be right.” That lighthearted attitude captures why a little eccentric decor can be so delightful.
In what ways do you add lighthearted fun or humor to your decor?
Gather is a selection of design inspiration and gift ideas by Courtney Michaels, creative coordinator and contributor for The Inspired Room.
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Gather: Foxes
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