Always keep in mind that seeing is a “reaching out”.  To see, we have to pay close attention.  When you pick a bunch of daffodils and need to choose a container, concentrate on the yellow and visualize it against a cobalt blue, then select a blue pitcher or vase.  You have to forget about everything else and make an intimate connection between one object and another, one juxtaposition and another, balance and counter balance.  – Alexandra Stoddard, Open Your Eyes

To have a well put-together home takes attention to detail; beauty is in the details.  The designer is reminding us that everything we place in our homes should be well considered and placed in the larger context of the room.  How does the item coordinate or contrast with the surrounding elements?  Placing those daffodils she mentions into a clear vase and plopping the small vase of 6 daffodils in the middle of a large dining table is not a well considered decision and won’t showcase the daffodils or the surroundings.  Check out this book by Alexandra: The Decoration of Houses is a beautifully written book to add to your bookshelf.

Though not a daffodil, this picture I took of a sunflower illustrates the same principle.  Look how fabulous the strong yellow is against the cobalt blue – always a dynamic combo!

Do you have a favorite designer quote to share?  I love collecting quotes because I find inspiration and encouragement and affirmation when I read through them.

Be Sociable, Share!

•