Editor’s Note: Eye for Design

Some people have an eye for design, and some don’t. I, sadly, don’t.

When I walk into a beautifully appointed room, I know it and can appreciate it, but when it comes to my own space, it’s a mishmash of furniture, objects and art with no real theme or look to it. There are some antiques, some thrifted pieces, lots and lots of books, poor plants hanging on for dear life, a slew of cobalt I once collected and art from my travels. It’s cozy to me, but in no way has any sense of design. If there is a part of my house that is arranged in an interesting way, that’s likely because a friend has suggested it.

It’s fascinating to me how certain people are so good at it and others aren’t. Oh I know that some aspects of design and decorating can be studied, learned. There’s a theory behind mixing colors and textiles and using space and light. When a room appears breathtaking, it’s generally because someone who knew what they were doing carefully arranged it that way.

The other reason these rooms look the way they do is because they are curated using objects and furniture that are of excellent quality and are often handcrafted — thus, having withstood the test of time, and for good reason. In a world taken over by Ikea and Crate & Barrel, furniture and textiles with depth and beauty will linger long past trends that come and go. Likewise, art that speaks to your soul or evokes a sense or memory adds layers to your home, contributing to the overall feeling.

This is not to say that every room must be elegant and filled with antiques. Some of the most beautiful spaces are simple and rustic. Whatever brings you joy is, ultimately, the most important thing and should determine how you decorate your space. I always look around for inspiration and ideas. There are endless places to do this, both online and in the real world.

Within this issue, Serenity, the country home of Patrick Dunne and Nathan Drewes, is a wonderful example of a space that is both elegant and cozy. The two men are curators and designers and have created a thoughtful, lovely interior and exterior space in their Bayou Carron home.

Also in this issue, we’ve highlighted the fantastical work of St. Rose artist, Nonney Oddlokken. Her art is stitchery steeped in the magical and Cajun folklore.

I hope you find some inspiration here. Cheers!

Reine Dugas
Editor
Reine@Louisianalife.com