There’s a lot of chatter online about what’s fashionable in home decor and what isn’t. Personally, I think decorating should be deeply personal. Your home should reflect what brings you joy. Trends come and go, but the pieces that make you smile are always in style. Decorating for yourself—choosing items that spark happiness—is the best rule to follow.
I’m drawn to accessories that tell a story or reflect my interests, so I couldn’t resist this little brass mouse rowing a leaf boat. Quirky animal pieces with personality have always appealed to me. This tiny adventurer feels like a character from a story—where is he headed, and what tales does he have to tell? Small, unexpected objects like this add warmth and whimsy to a room.
Should he have a name? I think so—I already love him.
Accessories do more than fill a shelf. They serve as reminders of things we love, places we’ve been, or moments that matter. When you surround yourself with meaningful items, you’ll feel the positive emotions and memories each time you see them. A home should be a place that evokes comfort and happiness.
Beyond art and accessories, I love working with favorite colors, varied textures, fresh flowers, charming architectural details, and cozy nooks for curling up. Those elements all contribute to a warm, inviting space. Layering items you love creates depth and makes rooms feel lived-in and personal.
Creating a home you enjoy also makes daily care and maintenance feel more rewarding. When the things around you reflect your tastes and memories, chores become part of preserving a space that matters. It’s often the small details—the quirky object on a mantel, a stack of beloved books, a well-placed throw—that turn a house into a home.
Do you decorate with items that make you happy?
You’re invited to join a community of home lovers in the HomeBody Gathering Place. This membership offers resources, training, activities, and challenges focused on intentional, meaningful home design. It’s a place to connect with like-minded people, share ideas, and find inspiration for creating spaces that reflect who you are.
If you enjoy surrounding yourself with pieces that tell your story, consider making a few small changes to your space: curate a shelf of meaningful objects, add a plant or fresh flowers, bring in a textured throw, or create a cozy corner for reading. These simple touches help daily life feel more joyful and intentional.
At the end of the day, thoughtful decorating is about surrounding yourself with things that lift your spirits. Whether it’s a whimsical figurine, a cherished piece of art, or a corner arranged for comfort, choose items that make your home a place where you feel happy, inspired, and at peace.