I have a theory which I was discussing with my friend Allison over at Pink Fibro. Whenever I do a post on something "pretty" or "decorative" I get lots of comments. I get, well, not much response at all when I post something that is architectural or ultra modern.
Personally, I prefer to live in an interior which is eclectic, personal and the opposite of minimal, but as a design jounalist I can really appreciate a fabulously sleek modern house. I just wouldn't want to live in it.
I think that most people - and most bloggers out there - feel the same way.I often have this discussion with my husband who is an architect and is particularly good at designing older-style houses with generous proportions and details but feels architectural peer pressure to "do modern".
I'd like to hear what you think.
You have touched a nerve here Catherine.
ReplyDeleteMy preference is for quite 'elemental' decor, but I tend to swim in more 'pretty' waters, blog-wise, which I'm really not suited for. I am forever choking back the impulse to say "step away from the glue-gun!". When I post about the AIA House Tour, no response. My cat or some flowers, yup.
I wonder if Ladies who Blog skew towards the thrifty, paint it white school, and maybe don't have the budget for houses which can draw on deeper reserves, let along 'fabulously sleek' which tends to cost arms and legs. Maybe posting in areas which are architectural or ultra-modern simply means a smaller pool of involved individuals.
I think some of those uber modern homes can look so un-lived in. Most of my clients are family people and therefore those stark interiors are just not going to work for them. Like you, I can appreciate them but they don't scream, "Come in, relax, I'll put the kettle on."
ReplyDeleteI thnk Tricia Rose is on the money. I have a blog about renovating a Queenslander decorating in a mid century mod style and the audience pool is smaller. I love modernist design and I love seeing it worked into older style homes.
ReplyDeleteDear Catherine,
ReplyDeleteI love looking at all types of designs and interiors, something in everything inspires me even though I may not see it at that moment.
Personally, as a person who loves neat and clean spaces, I do like the idea of modern design and architect but not for my home. I like the personal touches of different pieces, antiques, things collected from my travels, etc. and often times theses don't fit into the "modern" environment. I've been to a few Italian homes with modern furniture and they just don't seem to have any character.
p.s. a very thoughtful and interesting post.
A happy follower!
Pretty, pretty, pretty! I thinks it talks more about owner, while modern style not always is communicative.
ReplyDeletexo Mela
Hmmm, as an artist I can appreciate the aesthetic of super modern, but not the comfort factor. I'm renovating a 1910 home and while I like old 'stuff' I also want to inject a modern feel here and there, whether it be furniture or art. Realistically, a lot of super modern design can be super expensive. The up-cycling crowd just cant go there, even if they wanted to (me included). Also, I just want to feel really comfortable in my own home!
ReplyDeleteps I'm a tragic for a pet blog post as well!
Very thought-provoking responses. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI was married to an architect who preferred the clean, sleek modern lines and it was beautiful but I never felt at home. When we separated and bought my own home, it looks more like your top picture and I finally feel at home.
ReplyDeleteI love looking at sleek minimalist style but I know I could never ever live like that. I do want a contemporary, breezy pavilion-style house just once in my life though - I need to find out if sipping wine surrounded by all that glass would feel as good as it looks!
ReplyDeleteOh yes, I'm all for the pretty look, so long as it's not taken to extremes. The sleek, urbane look is fine for hotels and other people's houses, but I associate it with work so find it less relaxing.
ReplyDeletelove the pretty look - it just makes you go "ohhh I'd love to be sitting in that room!"
ReplyDeleteThe second photo reminds me a bit of my last house. I now live in a completely opposite style house and I may be an oddball but I love both equally. There's something so calming about sleek spaces but the other is more fun and interesting. So I guess it really depends on my mood on any given day!
ReplyDeleteHmmm... interesting point. I guess I am drawn towards images that really speak about the personality behind them. Modern can sometimes be too sterile, too clean. I do love modern, but in small doses. All out modern just isn't practical for me.
ReplyDeleteI agree that sleek is great in theory; uncluttered, etc but most of these interiors seem too uninviting to me. Give me pretty any day. Your top picture makes me happy.
ReplyDeleteIt's a tricky one. I like pretty but I don't like twee. And I like sleek but I don't like clinical. I guess I just like things to be cozy and feel like home. If you can't relax in your own home where can you?
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