Jura Koncius just wrote a terrific article in the Washington Post about Millennials being more interested in experiences than in accumulating things for their homes. For this generation, nostalgia is in short supply.
Koncius points out that it’s not that Millennials don’t care about their surroundings. They do. Newell Turner, Editor-in Chief of House Beautiful, says in the article that “Millennials are design-conscious, informed consumers” who choose furnishings that have special meaning. They just don’t believe in investing in their surroundings the way older folks might.
I understand, Millennials. You don’t have as much disposable income as previous generations did. You have student debt, and you’re starting your careers during a bummer of a recession. It’s not easy.
But if you value experience, isn’t home the most profound experience you can have?
It’s where you have meaningful interactions with your friends. It’s where you and your partner build a life together. It’s a sanctuary where you relax and recharge.
It’s worth your attention and a bit of your hard-earned money.
I strongly encourage you to invest in stylish and decent-quality furniture from well-priced retailers such as West Elm. For one thing, the better the quality, the better the furniture will withstand multiple moves. (Because you are planning to move soon, aren’t you?)
And yes, the photographs from your travels can be your artwork, as long as you blow up the pictures to 8 x 10″ or larger and mat and frame them. (Preferably in a tidy grid, as Michael did.)
The rug you stuffed in your rucksack and lugged halfway around the world should have pride of place in your home, but believe me: it’s too small to anchor a room. Place that 5 x 7′ rug on top of a larger rug and all of a sudden, it works. Crate & Barrel has a good selection of well-priced, low-profile sisal rugs.
Finally, even if you rent, please invest $100 and a weekend and banish the “rental-unit cream” from your home. Paint your walls with environmentally-conscious, low-VOC Benjamin Moore Natura paint.
Home is an experience, my dears. One of my favorite clients said that to me, and it became my mantra.
Your home must ground you, strengthen you, and bring you joy, so that you are inspired to go into the world and fulfill your passions. It’s worth an investment of your time and money.
Bossy color | Annie Elliott interior design is an interior design firm based in Washington, D.C. We create outrageously beautiful homes for fascinating people — starting with color.