I’ve lived in all sorts of places over the years — from shared flats in London to a house in Tokyo and now a colourful home in Auckland. In fact, I’ve had 18 addresses (yes, I just counted them). The first time I moved, I was six — and it was literally just next door. The second time, I was 22. Every move after that happened as an adult, across different countries and continents. (And that doesn’t even include the weeks I spent in friends’ guest rooms/ on their sofas while hunting for my next place.) If there’s one thing I’ve learnt from all these moves, it’s that personal style in interiors will always outlast any fleeting trend.
It’s easy to get swept up in what’s popular — the trending paint colours, the must-have coffee table books, the chair of the moment (bouclé, anyone?). But for me, the magic happens when a room feels like you. Not like a show home. Not like a Pinterest board. Just unmistakably yours.
Decorating with Joy (Not Just Aesthetics)
Some of my favourite pieces wouldn’t get a tick of approval from the trend police. A clashing mix of trinkets from around the world, a lamp that’s a little too big for the table it sits on, a second-hand find that’s a bit scruffy but bursting with character. But every one of them brings joy — and that’s the whole point.
Personal style in interiors isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection.
Use Trends, But Don’t Be Used By Them
I’m not anti-trend. I love keeping an eye on what’s new and experimenting when something truly clicks. But I always ask myself: Would I love this if it weren’t trending right now?
If the answer’s no, then it’s a pass. Because the most memorable homes aren’t cookie-cutter copies of the season’s favourites — they’re the ones with soul.
Make It Yours
Want to paint the ceiling plum? Go for it. Mix rattan with brass and vintage velvet? Why not. The beauty of personal style in interiors is that it gives you the freedom to create something that’s not just stylish, but meaningful.
Because in the end, it’s not about what’s “in”. It’s about what feels right. And there’s nothing more timeless than that.
The Trouble with Decorating Just for Trends
Here’s the thing: trends change. Sometimes faster than you can say “Scandi-minimalist”. If you’ve ever gone all-in on a look that felt “so now” — only to find a year or two later it suddenly feels tired, overdone or just not you anymore — you’re not alone. I’ve done it too. A space that once felt fresh can start to feel more like a showroom than a sanctuary. And unless you’re redecorating constantly (and who has the time or budget for that?), it’s a fast track to feeling disconnected from your own home. That’s why grounding your choices in personal style — not just what’s trending — gives your interiors lasting power. You’ll still love them long after the trend cycle has moved on.
Need a Hand?
If you’re feeling a bit stuck with your own space and not sure how to make it feel more you, I’d love to help. I can help you figure out your style, rework a room, or pull together the pieces you already own in a way that feels intentional. Sometimes all it takes is a fresh set of eyes — and a few good ideas. Click to get in touch.
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