Decor Recent Reads

After reviewing several decor books, I wanted to take a deeper dive into one that truly resonated with me: Susan Sully's 'Past Present: Living with Heirlooms and Antiques'. While many books focus on modern trends or complete overhauls, Sully's approach offers a refreshing perspective on creating a home with soul and history, something I've personally grown to appreciate more and more. Her book isn't just a collection of pretty pictures; it's a philosophy. It champions the idea of integrating pieces with a story – be they treasured family heirlooms or vintage finds – into contemporary living spaces. What I loved most is how it showcases homes where antiques, sometimes over a century old, aren't just displayed but are actively lived with, sitting comfortably alongside modern designs. It's about finding harmony between different eras, creating a layered look that feels uniquely personal rather than like a showroom. This really speaks to me because I believe our homes should reflect our journey and personality, not just the latest catalog. One of the biggest takeaways for me was the emphasis on valuing the original composition of antiques. In a world where 'flipping' furniture often means painting over beautiful wood or drastically altering a piece's character, Sully's book celebrates the patina, the wear, and the inherent beauty of age. It's a gentle reminder that not everything needs to be 'rescued' by being completely transformed. Sometimes, the beauty lies in its authentic state, a concept explored in the OCR images where 'Antiques are showcased as they are and not "flipped"'. This helped me rethink how I approach potential antique purchases or even pieces I already own. If you're wondering how to start incorporating this 'Past Present' style into your own home, I have a few personal tips inspired by Sully's philosophy. First, don't feel pressured to acquire grand, expensive antiques. Start small! A single vintage mirror, a unique ceramic vase, or even an old wooden stool can add immense character. I often browse local thrift stores or antique markets; you'd be surprised what treasures you can find that speak to you. Family pieces are also gold – even if they don't perfectly match your current aesthetic, there's a story there that can make them irreplaceable. Second, don't be afraid to mix and match. The beauty of Sully's examples is how seamlessly modern silhouettes blend with older pieces. A sleek, contemporary sofa can look incredibly chic next to a weathered antique chest, creating a dialogue between the past and present. It's about balance and finding pieces that complement each other, not necessarily match. Think about textures, colors, and the overall feeling you want to evoke. Finally, embrace imperfection. Antiques often come with their own quirks, dents, and faded spots. These aren't flaws; they're part of the item's history and character. Learning to appreciate these details, as advocated by Susan Sully, can transform your perspective on decorating. It moves away from sterile perfection towards a lived-in, soulful aesthetic. 'Past Present' has truly opened my eyes to the art of curating a home that tells a story, making it a definite recommendation for anyone seeking a timeless, personal touch in their decor journey.