Slow Decorating: How We Turn a House Into a Cozy Home

Slow decorating, how we make our house a home

Last weekend we celebrated the upcoming arrival of our new granddaughter with friends and family. It was a joyful, special time. While I was sad to leave loved ones, I always enjoy returning to my everyday rhythms—and I was eager to set up a vintage bamboo cart we brought home with us.

img 168142 2 1 — **Sources:** Patterned Lampshade + Wall Sconce //

The first thing I did when we arrived was check my peonies outside. I clipped a few blooms for a small bouquet—there’s something so restorative about bringing flowers inside. I’ve missed the flower foraging I enjoyed in our previous garden, and creating a cutting garden here is high on my list. Fortunately, deer don’t seem to bother peonies in our area, so I plan to plant many more.

img 168142 3 1 — **Sources:** Plaid chair // Bamboo shades // Jute and Cotton rug

My mom had held onto a vintage bamboo cart for years, and she surprised me by bringing it here. She used to style it with plants and books, and I love the idea of having it in the living room. I’m deciding what to put on it now—plants would be lovely, but my dogs love to nibble, so I’ll choose carefully. Styling this little corner will be fun.

When my mom asked if I wanted the cart, I said yes right away. I didn’t even know she still had it, so it was a happy surprise.

This room is modest in size, so I’m selecting furniture and accessories that feel right for us—interesting and comfortable without crowding the space. Finding that balance takes time, and I expect I’ll continue to rearrange things over the seasons.

Each piece we add layers more personality into the house. The home slowly begins to tell our story. I prefer a slow, layered, collected approach to decorating—meaningful pieces added over time—rather than quick, trendy makeovers.

img 168142 5 1 — **Sources:** Jute Wrapped Chandelier with Shades // Rattan Serving Cart // Patterned Rug (Ocean/Gold)

After bringing the cart in I moved a few things around and began small adjustments. I grabbed navy scalloped trays I had set aside for summer and used one as a simple centerpiece on the dining table—use what you have. I considered cutting hydrangeas but decided to wait until I take photos outside when the sun is out.

I also experimented with the round table between the two living room chairs. It felt a bit crowded, so I moved it and discovered the space felt more open. Instead of a larger table, we’ll use smaller accent tables for drinks and convenience. In summer we like to keep the doors open for the dogs and guests, so a lighter layout works better.

I folded down the table sides and placed it behind the sofa for now. It works well there and gives us an extra surface when family visits. That temporary solution might be the perfect fit for the moment.

A basket that had been beside the bamboo cart found a new home stacked on top of another basket. It was an accidental pairing, but I love how it looks. Small, unexpected arrangements like that make a room feel lived-in and personal.

The fireplace felt like a dark void when not in use, and since the insert is behind glass I couldn’t place items inside. Styling around it instead—with vintage pieces on either side—softened that look and made the area feel summery.

Now the marble-topped washstand sits on one side of the fireplace and the bamboo cart on the other. That collected arrangement adds character and tells more of our story, which I’m really enjoying.

I previously shared the vintage washstand in an earlier post.

img 168142 9 1 — **Sources:** Scalloped shade lamp // Kitchen sources

Looking toward the kitchen, I made a simple swap: I removed two plates from the wall and replaced them with blue-and-white bowls. The change felt immediately more summery and fresh.

Related: How I hang plates, platters, and bowls on a wall.

That’s what I’ve done so far. I’m excited to spend more time outdoors in the sunshine and to share our progress out there soon.

Are you a slow decorator? Join us. We’re opening our HomeBody community this season to explore simple, slow, and savored seasonal home rhythms together. Learn more and register if you’d like to join.

I took more photos that day—below are a few additional shots followed by a list of room sources.