Page 48 - Waterways_Winter_2018_Neat

I think through the process start to finish, and
The family room, a
nautical-accented bedroom
and the back porch exude
stylish comfort.
46 WATERWAYS | Winter 2018
how that home would look when someone
really lives there on its best day. Books
arranged on a shelf not like a decorator came
in arranged it but like it was done by an avid
reader. Bedside tables that are utilized and
not just for show—a stack of books, a lamp,
a tray for jewelry or knick-knacks, a pretty
water carafe and a vase for flowers. It has
to make sense. If it doesn’t it’s just fluff.
Q. How often should you update decor?
If you are doing it right, not that often! That’s
why I’m a big advocate of classic design. It
never goes out of style. Following trends is a
surefire way to keep us designers in business
forever, however!
I do say, though, your large items—sofas,
rugs, curtains—should be like dressing. Those
are the items to really invest in and be me-
thodical about ordering. Your accessories are
your handbags and shoes. You can constantly
change them seasonally or every so often to
make things feel fresh.
GRACEFUL HOLIDAY DECORATING
Q. What are some common pitfalls
you see in holiday decorating?
Using too many store-bought Christmas
decorations. Look beyond the obvious.
Incorporate fruit such as pears or pretty
leafy orange tree branches. Mix greenery
such as holly, eucalyptus or magnolia
branches with something unique to your
area, such as old bleached deer antlers
or pretty gardenia flowers.
Q. Do you have any special ornaments
or keepsakes you and your family look
forward to putting on display during
the holidays?
Growing up I always loved my mother’s
Christmas stocking that her mother made
her. It was oversized with large red sequins
and thoughtful adornments of little dolls
and other things that were special to my
mother. I asked my mom if she would do the
same thing for my children. It took her about
six years, but she made them for my whole PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SOUTHERN LIVING MAGAZINE/HECTOR MANUEL SANCHEZ
family. We each have one in a different color,
and there are special details that are unique
to each of the four of us.
THE TAKEAWAY
Q. What’s your best piece
of decorating advice?
Always incorporate at least one antique
into a room. It gives the room authenticity.