I told Taylor that I feel so much closer to finished in our house, to which he quickly laughed off. He’s right. When I walk in my dining room in person I love it but, as soon as I started looking through my pictures from the reveal I immediately saw things I already want to add. And I was so frustrated by my photos. I totally get why they say to have your rooms professionally photographed. I just couldn’t seem to capture the real feel of the room no matter what angle I took. It was so frustrating to see the pictures and feel like they didn’t portray the room accurately. But, I had to catch myself and instead of getting bummed out, remember that perfection was not the goal. My goal was to update a room that has long been ignored. My dining room had some functional things but, they weren’t special to me and they didn’t tie into the larger vision I have for my house. The changes I made in the room were very intentional and helped add a common thread between the living areas: fresh and modern accessories, black & white accents, and layers that fit our style.
I have rushed to complete a room before and every time I am not happy with the results. It’s why it can be hard to be a decorator because as much as you want to deliver a fantastic room-in-a-box the truth is a great room happens by evolution. Adding layers and figuring out what works best just takes time. I’m not discounting this profession I have chosen because I absolutely think hiring a decorator is smart for a lot of reasons, but it’s just important to remember that the perfect results can’t and don’t always happen overnight. And it’s important for me to remember this in my own house! I know that this room will eventually get a couple more layers but, I will let them happen naturally. It may be the perfect art I scope out on a random Saturday or a trim on the curtains maybe new fabric on the seat cushions or a great rug. The possibilities are endless and that’s what always keeps my mojo going.
So, I do love my room and I am so happy to have taken part in this 6 week madness. My room probably isn’t finished but you know what? I don’t even want a “finished” house. What would I do with my spare time? I love constantly tweaking things and it’s exciting to see how a room can change from year to year. Plus the best houses are those that feel lived in and to feel lived in you have to add real life layers as you go. So what if my photos made the room look sparse? I know that when I walk into my dining room I feel happy and when I had a bunch of girls over to celebrate that room it was functional and something I was proud of. I would say that made my 6 weeks a success. The party may be over but this room is still making me smile…
It’s like anything in life…you can see the glass as half-empty or you can choose to be proud of yourself, embrace your ideas, and be excited for what’s ahead. I have more plans for my little dining room but I am not letting those over shadow the fact that I worked really hard, trusted my gut, and eventually created a room that feels very me.
Elizabeth @ The Little Black Door says
My dear, I think every single one of us knows exactly how you feel. That is part of the fun/stress. And you said it perfectly, I never want to be in a 'done' house. How boring! Your dining room turned out wonderfully and I think if it truly was 'done' it might have felt good for a day or two but it would have made you far more restless. Great post!
Cassie @ Primitive & Proper says
i don't think i want a finished house ever either- then what? i love this post!
Kris @ Driven by Décor says
Beth, I have the exact same sentiments about my ORC space. It's missing a layered element and collected feel that you just can't get when you're throwing a space together in six weeks (unless you start planning way ahead, which I didn't). But it's so worth it to get the ball rolling on an outdated room, right?! We are our own worst critics – I honestly LOVE your space!!
Linda {Calling it Home} says
Haha, what designed obsessed person is ever satisfied? Do any of our rooms look the same immediately after the picture is taken? That's what I love, it's just a moment in time. Glad to hear you will be back and thanks for the mention.