I was recently reading through Elle Decoration (April 2011 issue) when I came across Jonathan Adler's tips for a happy home. For those of you who may not know, Jonathan Adler is a designer with his own line of creations which are clean and modern with a soupçon of playfulness. He shares his home with partner Simon Doonan, creative ambassador of New York fashion emporium Barneys, so I imagine there's a need for some happy home ground rules with that much creativity in force!
Photo c/o Bemz: Tylösand sofa in variety of fabrics
Tip 1: There are no rules. "Our living-room faces a brick wall, so I commissioned our friend John-Paul Philippe to create an eye-inspired paintings to hang in front of the windows. Instead of us looking out, it's as if the windows are looking in."
Tip 2: Perfection is bland. "When you've created the perfect space - majestically arranged, harmoniously hued - you must mess it up! Throw in an off-note: a lemon yellow chair, a picture hung lower than you think it should be, an oversized lamp in a small room."
Jennylund armchair in Static Stripe - Fuchsia, Tomelilla armchair in Fuchsia from Bemz
Tip 3: Be naughty. "Simon and I are both pretty straight-laced, but our decorating style is an outlet for our louche side."
Tip 4: Buy better. "My company motto is: We won't make it if your heirs won't fight over it, and I mean it. I try to buy and make only pieces that are well crafted and memorable - things that my family will be fighting over for centuries to come (a la Bleak House)."
Ekeskog sofa in Salamander - Black/White and Nils chair in Kokeshi - Black/White/Red both from Bantie Designer collection at Bemz
Tip 5: Honor orange. "When in doubt, I throw in an orange accessory. Orange looks as crisp and refreshing as it tastes."
Tip 6: Mix it up. "Every room needs a dash of hippy and a dollop of socialite."
Utopia Mermaid Vase by Jonathan Adler
Tip 7: Faces are fabulous. "Visages humanize inanimate objects. Arrangements need focal points, and faces are my sure-fire favorites."
Jennylund armchair in Sand Beige with a cushion in Gustavian Flowers - Black and a Karlanda bench in Classic Ruta - Black, all from Bemz
Tip 8: Go for gold... or silver. "Using precious metals in your home is like adding a little jewellery to your outfit. Every space needs some glamour."
Tip 9: Make is personal, squishy and comfy and you'll be happy!
According to Jonathan, the fail-safe formula for home decor is: 95% chic + 5% happy = irreverent luxury. You may not agree with all his tips but I'm sure there's something in there for everyone. I'm particularly fond of tip number 6.
Credit: Elle Decoration UK, April 2011
It's your house, so it's your call! Tip number 1 has got to be one of the best home improvement tips out there. You just have to be good in organizing without sacrificing your creativity. Don't you agree? By the way, did they use natural lighting on the third pic? If they did, those windows sure bring in tons of good light.
Posted by: Sandra Ludwig | May 20, 2011 at 03:20 PM
HI Sandra!
You're spot on. I think we all have our own ideas that can be put to work which is what makes our homes our own, unique spaces. Just like us, they have a personality of their own.
And to answer your question - the house is very bright but extra lighting was used.
Thanks for visiting us and sharing your views!
Christie at Bemz
Posted by: Christie at Bemz | May 22, 2011 at 10:13 PM
Great site, thank you for sharing, I thought all in one day!.. really nice. You have a beautiful pen, hats off to you.
Posted by: Brisbane roofing | July 20, 2011 at 05:19 PM
Wow.. Wonderful arrangements of sofas and all things. I like your smart way which look like very stunning. I like studying your posts. Stay up the good work!
Posted by: מרינה הרצליה | February 13, 2012 at 07:00 PM