Brittany’s Interior Design Style Evolution
9.13.24
Ever find yourself scrolling through old Pinterest boards and saying to yourself, “What was I thinking when I pinned this?” If you’re nodding along, then you’re in good company!
That’s exactly how I felt mustering up images to share with you of the design styles I was drawn to through the years. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not that the old pins are horrendous, it’s just that I don’t identify with them anymore. I mean, that’s the beauty of growing and evolving! Everyone has their own style and that’s great and should be celebrated! It’s a process of figuring it out at the beginning, but as you live more life, you quickly recognize the designs that light you up and those that don’t. Let’s not shy away from the things that bring us joy just because they may be judged by others or not what others would choose.
Design styles can be as fluid as our tastes in fashion, music, art, etc, and mine has undergone quite the transformation over the years. It started with trends and then became something completely its own; a look that truly reflects my personality and experiences.
Let’s go back, back to the beginning (sings Hilary Duff) back to the early 2010s—what a time to be alive! I was all about the latest design fads. Remember when industrial design was all the rage? Or how about when rose gold was practically a neutral? And chevrons—don’t even get me started. I loved it all but it personally lacked something special and it took me years to decipher. What was lacking in the love for trends was a love for spaces with deeper meanings; like a great concept that carries us through i.e. a story. Your space tells the unique story of you, the things you collect, cherish, etc that you should be able to proudly display!
I began to slowly realize the sudden change in perspective when I set out across the pond. I had the privilege of visiting Europe with one of my sisters in 2016…can’t believe that was already 8 yrs ago!!! We traveled to 6 different countries (France, Belgium, Netherlands, England, Scotland, Ireland) and 11 different cities -don’t worry, I won’t name them all. It was a whirlwind of a 17-day trip and one I will always cherish. There is something to be said about finding yourself through travel. You not only learn about people outside your bubble, their way of life and culture, but you also learn and discover more about yourself.
Wandering through historic cities, admiring centuries-old architecture, and soaking up the cultural richness of Europe made me appreciate the beauty of historical design in my own space. The ornate details, grand moldings, and intricate patterns I encountered became a huge inspiration. It was a journey that helped me connect with a style that wasn’t just about following trends but about crafting a space with personal significance. It’s crazy how a simple trip outside the States can do all of that!
Inspired by the timeless elegance of European architecture and the fascinating blend of old and new, I returned home with a fresh set of designer eyes. My style evolved into a combination of mid-century modern aesthetics and historical eclecticism. Just to put a label on it I'd call it, “eclectic mid-century modern with historical details”. Either way you put it’s still a mouthful. There’s something about the sleek lines and angles, rich walnuts, and playfulness of mid-century modern that just gets me! I will always have a pull toward that style but the other elements surrounding it are like a revolving door. I may feel more boho or traditional or beachy at times but eclectic mid-mod is still a staple.
Imagine a room with sleek, retro furniture paired with antique treasures. Think deep walnut wood, intricate moldings, a backdrop of soft colors accented by playful patterns, and a mix of antique finds that tell a story. It gets me excited about design!
Here’s a fun snapshot of my pin evolution on Pinterest, from 2010 - present day. Enjoy!
My earliest pins reflect a love for grays with little pops of color and/or bold patterns.
I was attracted to white subway tiles. Whether it was in a mid-century modern, traditional, or rustic industrial space, it didn’t seem to matter.
Blush pink rooms? Yes, please! So many pins like this from many years ago.
As you may see, the shift was radical from earlier years to now. This is the style I love wrapped up in a nutshell :) These spaces light me up! The warm deep woods, pops of color, and patterns with a hint of traditional elements.
I’ll always be drawn to pinks and mauves. These spaces are just more elevated than the pinks in the spaces from years prior.
And today, my style is a culmination of it all. These photos are may appear random but they are spaces that I’m diggin’ right now.
I’ve learned to proudly showcase the things that bring me joy—like my love for pinks, florals, and Christian art. My space now reflects a journey of self-discovery and confidence, where every piece has a purpose and a story. I’m now incorporating more elaborate details that echo the elegance and history I fell in love with during my travels.
So, would I 100% without a doubt say that I know my design style through and through? No, not at all. It’s a journey and one that never ends. As you grow and learn and experience life, things will call to you at different stages. I think the most important thing to remember is that it is quite alright. You are allowed to change your mind and you are not pigeonholed into one particular style. Have fun, mix it up and be playful with it! It’s your space and you can do with it what you will! I know I will :)
Cheers to finding your unique style! -Britt
*All images shown are designed by Others and sourced from Pinterest or Instagram