I’ll be the first to admit, I’m not always entirely practical. On occasion, I’ve been known to stuff my feet into ridiculously painful high heels because just because they look best with an outfit, forgo a jacket on a chilly evening because it didn’t “go” with my top, and carry evening purses that were too small to hold all of my things. Clearly, these are all examples of when I let form takes precedence over function.
But when it comes to decorating my home, I’ve found that my decisions affect everyone living in the house, not just me, and so it’s better to ensure that functional needs are met first and foremost to create a comfortable living space that works for everyone. That being said, there’s no reason that items can’t be both functional and beautiful!
Side story: There is a step down to our living room from the entryway. Both spaces have hardwood floors and because the hardwood ran the same direction in both rooms, several people didn’t see the step and tripped down it. My dad, Mr. Practical, suggested that we line the step with the yellow, anti-slip tape you see at subway stations. (Seriously, he wasn’t kidding…) Obviously, I didn’t go that route, but instead, added a rug to the living room and changed the layout of the furniture so that visually, they looked like two different spaces. Problem solved with an option that was both practical and stylish!
{Where Form & Function Collide}
I believe that when you marry form and function, you’ll be the happiest with the end result. After all, we quickly tire of items that look good but don’t work well. Similarly, items that work well but don’t look good don’t add to the aesthetic of our homes. Instead, look for multitasking items that can do both things at once!
While looking through Pottery Barn’s Fall 2013 catalog, I saw several items that beautifully serve their intended purpose. Note: This post is NOT sponsored by or in any way affiliated with Pottery Barn. I’m just sharing with you some items that I love and think you will, too!
The Warren Pulley Task Lamp has functioning pulleys that adjust the angle of the light.
The Wingate Swivel Chair is adjustable and practical but adds some much texture and warmth to an office.
This Square Pocketwatch Clock is a functioning alarm clock with a lot of personality!
How cute is this pig paper towel holder?!
So as you shop, keep in mind that you’re decorating for real life, and your home needs to be functional, but also reflect your personality and taste. You’ll find you get the biggest bang for your buck when form and function collide!
P.S. For more information about determining your functional needs, check out Creating a Design Plan in 4 Easy Steps!
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