How I Found My Style Sundays-Down To Earth Style

I am Holly from Down to Earth Style.

Pamela was so kind to invite me to share 'How I Found My Style' here on her lovely blog.

I use the term "down to earth" because my home and designs are meant to be practical, not pretentious, and I try to keep our earth in mind by bringing nature indoors and by keeping what I can re-use out of our landfills.

My decor reflects the way we live. Having two young boys at home means I can't be too concerned if things get broken, scratched, spilled on or used for anything but what it was made for.

Making a home comfortable is my priority when it comes to design.

 If I had to identify my style as country, vintage, rustic or traditional? I could use your help in that regard, but I have heard Rustic Country, Modern Rustic, Shabby Chic....Rustic seems to be the most consistent word in the descriptions I hear. What would you call it?

Worry-free and cozy are the main criteria here and with a skimpy budget I took advantage of what was available in my corner of the country. Old windows and doors were cheap and with my conscience for keeping our earth clean - I turned to salvaged finds to bring more charming character into our new "spec" home.

I have an enormous collection of magazines that I still flip through now and again for inspiration. Honestly, that is where I have found much of my style. Blending different looks and ideas into the way I want to live, with my own instincts for what's comfortable or livable, using materials I already had on hand or could afford.

 Well worn accents are a favorite of mine, especially if they have a story to tell. But, if I can make a 'one-of-a-kind' piece myself that adds to the space....I will.

One of my big "first" projects was this kitchen island. I love a chunky, rustic piece of furniture in the kitchen. I  overcame any fear of the miter saw when I knew it wasn't practical to ask my husband to make exactly what I envisioned for me.  He would gladly entertain the boys  (he's got his priorities straight) while I tore out the original standard island to build this new piece that "fits".

Once I started using the saw to shape my creations, I never stopped.

I welcome you all to visit my blog to see other projects I enjoy creating and sharing using new and recycled materials.

If a particular style fits the way you live - embrace and embellish it - then call it your own, with or without words to define it.

Thank you, Pamela, for letting me share with your readers a little piece of my style.

Thank you Holly for sharing your beautiful home with us all!