5 Ways to Make Your Home More Romantic
Designer Lindsay Reid lets us peek into her California cottage, warmly decorated in soft hues and lively patterns and prints. Here are a few easy ideas that you can steal for your home, too.
1. Decorate with Potted Plants in Lieu of Fresh Flowers
You don't always have to set up a table with fresh cut flowers. A potted plant, like lavender, will last much longer. Plus, it fills the air with a fragrant scent. Of her own patio, Reid says, "It's inspired by all the beachy towns in the Mediterranean, where alfresco dining is a way of life. I love the little bistros and homes with wild, rambling gardens and haphazardly set up tables and iron chairs. The whole setting is carefree and thoughtful at the same time."
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2. Try Wicker Furniture
Indoors
Using a material associated with the outdoors helps soften a space. The wicker furniture gives the room a casual vibe and coordinates well with the bamboo print of the cushions. The room is sophisticated, yet "unpretentious," says Reid.
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3. Layer Patterns
Romance doesn't have to mean pink or purple. "I have some serious preppy urges: chintz, checks, seersucker, monogrammed linens, Chinese porcelain. I consider blue-and-white a neutral and can't think of a color that it doesn't go with," says Reid. By sticking with one color palette and layering with multiple patterns, the space seems richer — without the ruffles.
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4. Hang a Textile
"I have a textile addiction," says Reid. A big, rich, patterned blanket, rug, or quilt adds color and automatically warms the room. It's an intriguing substitute in lieu of framed paintings and is equally artistic with its woven designs and texture.
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5. Drape Fabric on an End Table
"I know it has a granny stigma—a lot of people see them and say, 'Ewww'—but for me they're a showcase for beautiful fabric, and they soften up a room," says Reid. Skirted pieces can help ground a room, and make it feel it more feminine. She suggests forgoing a glass top, unless you plan on serving drinks on it.
What are some ways you add romantic touches to your home?
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