Interior Obsessions – Summer Home

The end of summer always makes me want to extend that time just a bit more, even though the hectic nature of my life doesn’t really change throughout the summer months. But it reminds me of family vacations, going to camp, or staying in a cabin. I reminisce about those times when we live more simply – you know that little twinge when you’re at the beach, lake or mountains without all your ‘stuff,’ and realize that you really don’t miss it much at all. Our closets are pared down, our kitchen is basic, and we tend to live according to the sunrise and sunset, actually enjoying all those moments in between. Truth be told, those times always make me want to chuck all my stuff out the window when I get home. There is a kind of rusticated austerity, a fundamental simplicity to that type of space that you can bring into your home, even mixing those pieces with your current favorites.

Think simple construction – thick pieces of wood, exposed hardware and spaces limited to just those items that are a necessity. Metal accents, especially in an imperfect finish, make a great accessory, in chairs, tables and decor items. Natural finishes and rougher textures keep these pieces warm and inviting. Try scaling back a little – pick a room and take out a piece or two of any size. It can be something cluttering a bookshelf, or it might be as large as a piece of furniture. Try moving it out, and see how you feel about it. If you miss it, it might be worth keeping, but then try another. See if you can do without all those extras. Try living more simply and recapture the ease of those summer times.

(above) Picnic Table

Cot on a Deck + Wood Bench and Hooks

Simple Headboard

Stool as Nightstand + Bench Blocks

Rustic Kitchen

Amy wrote this post. She is the designer and owner of FormFire Glassworks, where she creates modern lampwork glass beads and jewelry, and by day designs custom homes for a small firm in Southern California. You can follow her twitter @formfireglass.