Home Chic Home: Modern-Meets-Vintage Design At Mhouse Inc.
How would you describe your personal style?
I like an eclectic mix of new and vintage items. Most people are surprised by how warm my spaces feel for being so clean and modern. I think it’s because I usually introduce a surprising burst of color or texture and there is always at least one item that makes you smile.
What was the inspiration behind your daughter’s bedroom?
For kids’ rooms, I tend to gravitate toward kitschy items from the 50s and 60s. I love the colors from those decades and I started collecting vintage fabrics before my daughter was even born. Then I came across the wallpaper and fell in love. I knew I didn’t want to do a “pink” room so I just ended up incorporating all of the bits and pieces that I loved. Though nothing really matches, it somehow all works together.
I love the selection of art above the dresser. How did you go about sourcing them?
Some are vintage paint by numbers that I have collected over the years. I remember loving those as a kid so whenever I found one here or there I had to have it. Someone had also given me a stack of old salesmen’s brochures for suits and clothing patterns. I have to admit, I tore some out and framed them! And then, of course, there are pictures of my daughter as a baby can’t live without those.
What should parents keep in mind when designing their child’s bedroom?
I always try to encourage people to fill their kids’ rooms with things that both they and their kids love to look at. There is no reason why a child’s rooms can’t bend well with the rest of the house. I find it really unusual when I walk into a home that is, say, all creams and beiges, then the kids rooms are all primary colors!
Did your daughter play a role in decorating her bedroom?
She loves her room and has been my best client so far (she hasn’t questioned a single decision!). Of course, every morning the pillows and dressers are arranged in a way that is all her own.
What’s the secret to designing a home that’s at once stylish and kid-friendly?
I think the main thing about kids in a home is that they seem to create clutter wherever they go. Storage is key. And I have a rule: If one thing comes in then another gets passed along. That way, we never overflow and there is a place for everything.
How do you manage your thriving career with motherhood?
It’s not easy! But as long as I keep myself organized, I somehow manage to fit it all in (though I’m usually running, literally!). I’m a list freak and can multitask like nobody’s business. It helps to have a structured schedule so that I can plan my appointments around my daughter. Once in a while, even the best laid plans can fall through that’s when comes along as my assistant!
(Photos: Donna Griffith)
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