Living well encompasses so many aspects- more than the backdrop we designers create, more than the things we surround our clients with, its more far-reaching than that. Yes, stylish interior design and a beautiful house or a prime apartment are key components to living well- but its not everything. Living well is a daily act. Its a conscious decision to be the best you can be and live the best you can every day. Living well is maximizing what you have and striving for better when you can. Its using everything you have and everything you are at the highest level.
I was recently on site with clients that are at the tail end of a full kitchen remodel. Anyone who has ever lived through a remodel can attest to the perils of a remodel situation. Though the project is nearing completion, there is much to be done. There's still plastic on the floor in surrounding rooms, crown moulding to be installed, painting to take place and the finishing touches such as knobs and pulls to grace the gorgeous new cabinetry.
Since it was an early evening appointment, my clients offered me a light meal of sandwiches. One of my favorites is peanut butter and jelly (although they laughed to hear my humble request, they agreed that a classic PB&J is, in fact, a great sandwich!). So, in the midst of remodel chaos, in the living room at a table that is normally in the kitchen, we ate sandwiches. My favorite part, aside from their gracious hospitality, was the fact that they put the condiments in cut crystal dishes. I can honestly say that I have never put peanut butter or jelly into a crystal serving dish. This is a new high in everyday fine living. In fact, its a new high in living well under distress (remodels have been described as torturous), and I loved it! These people "get" it!
This is just one example of living well. Here are a few ways to live well each day with means you already have:
-Utilize fabulous lighting every evening. Don't just reserve it for company! Lighting creates warmth, ambiance and lends comfort- use it! Put your ambient lighting on a dimmer switch if its not already, then adjust the lighting levels according to activity. You can also place lamps on timers- honestly, there is no excuse! Its amazing how much more relaxed you can be when the lighting is dim and very warm. You will enjoy your home more when its "glowing" correctly. Good light also makes humans look incredibly attractive- so there is another bonus!
-Set your dinner table as you would for company. Use your linens and candlesticks. It takes all but two more minutes to set these items out and two more to break it down after dinner. Don't save these things for special occasions- every day should be an occasion.
-As mentioned, use your china! For morning cereal, for coffee...for pizza! Embrace it. Love it.
-Use serving pieces to serve your family their meals. Don't just scoop from the pot or the dish on the stove (so guilty of this!). Presentation counts far more than anyone truly realizes. Use the bread basket, use the platters, use the gravy boat!
-Display fresh flowers in a gorgeous vase (or recycle a San Pellegrino bottle for a casual kitchen bud vase). There is something about real flowers, aside from the fragrance, that really perks up a room and causes a smile in passing. Fresh flowers trump artificial, hands down.
-Burn your candles. Get into the ritual of lighting them upon arrival home. The scent and warmth really make you feel cozy, and candlelight adds that extra sparkle to a lighting scheme. I have a handful of scents I burn throughout the year, changing the scents with the seasons. Further distinguish your home with a hallmark of warmth and subtle fragrance.
