Decorating Styles 101: A Comfy and Casual Home

Filed under: Your Home, Projects, Design, etc, Furniture

A casual home doesn't have to be a sloppy one. Here's how to decorate in a way that's functional and fashionable.

When you see a chic and seemingly effortlessly dressed woman, there's no doubt she spent some time cultivating her casual look: The same is true of the best casual homes. ShelterPop talked to Judith Wilson, the author of the new book "Casual Living: No-Fuss Style for a Comfortable Home" about what casual style means and how to get the look right.


"I think some people think, 'casual' means a bit chaotic and a little bit messy," says Wilson, "But in my mind, if you get the shell of your home organized and correct right at the beginning - it allows you to be relaxed and casual." Wilson's prescription for a casual comfortable home is to plan carefully to create a home that doesn't need too much day-to-day attention to leave more time for you to get on with actually living.

What are Wilson's secrets? Read on:

Everything should have a place. You need to have enough storage to put everything away. Then you'll have a place for everything, and you can tidy up more easily, says Wilson.

Start with a neutral base. Neutrals are always a great starting point for any room. "It makes for a tranquil, relaxed interior," says Wilson. Creating a background of neutrals makes it easy to add in colors according to your own preferences.

Choose fuss-free textiles. Choose fabrics and upholstery with a bit of movement and a gentle crumple. "There are some curtains that are so smart they're only going to look their best if the blinds are hung at a certain angle," warns Wilson. Instead, opt for fabrics with a laidback feel.

Opt for easy-care surfaces. Think about the cleaning and maintenance of surfaces when decorating your home. "Acres and acres of glass in your bathroom will require daily maintenance," cautions Wilson, whereas you'll never notice a scratch in an already well-aged tabletop. If your surfaces don't need too much attention, then you can get on with living and not have to think about it.

Incorporate vintage elements into your home. If you mix older pieces in with newer ones, the new stuff won't look so pristine and serious, says Wilson. "An old piece brings with it a sense of history," she says. "It automatically relaxes the room."

But...know when gently worn is really just shabby. Something like obviously faded floral chintz is charming in its wear, where as anything that's downright ripped or stained is past the point of repair.

Pare down your belongings. "Casual living is not about living in a sparse way," says Wilson."[However], it is about living in a careful way, so that you can enjoy the things around you." If things start to feel cluttered, put a few things away or donate them.

Make it personal. "I am a great believer in a personal home," says Wilson. Whether it's a postcard or a small bouquet of fresh flowers, Wilson says a few personal touches bring a home to life.

Ask some friends for help. A home is meant to make both you and your guests feel at home. For outside advice, ask a friend about your home. "If you have guests who are honest, sometimes they can give you some surprisingly helpful comments," says Wilson.

Don't try too hard! Casual should be easy, says Wilson, "Follow your natural instincts."


Craving more design inspiration? Check out our Decorating Styles 101 series:
- Decorating Styles 101: Cowboy Chic
- Decorating Styles 101: Equestrian Style
- Decorating Styles 101: Modern Coastal

 

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