Sometimes the objects in your house have to come with a story. They can’t all be bought and placed the weekend you move in. Too many young people make the mistake of rushing out to Home Goods or Z Gallerie to get every accessory and pillowcase. To be clear, those are great places for essentials, but not appropriate for full ensembles or flashes of detail and taste. The art of decorating a space is like dressing. Look too matched up, without personal flair, and people snicker as you walk by in your retail uniform ensemble.
My parents have had many years to collect and invest in bits and pieces that speak to their aesthetic. Saying it’s eclectic is a tired cliché, but it truly is. They liked the Pottery Barn teak-and-toast style in the 90s, but moved in a decidedly sleeker direction in the last 15 years, investing heavily in glass and metal, black or gray leather, and streamlined, unfussy shapes. Along the way, they’ve picked up local artistry, family heirlooms, gifts from friends, and all matter of decor to fill up our home. I like that it’s not all the same, but it has a modern-rustic hybrid feel.
Here are some of my favorites:
Tiffany & Co. Rock Votive Holder (gift)
glass and chrome base lamp with linen-look shade
recycled metal frame with translucent plastic color window (brother made!)
Carolyn Heller original mini print in gold frame that falls constantly (hence sides separating)
mixed media (canvas, copper, rivets, oil?) piece from St. Augustine
family heirloom sailboat-marina painting, oil on canvas (artist unknown)
DeSimone original painted face on china plate
 Antelope skull and clock sculpture in bathroom
local artist painted palmetto frond (bought at Ybor Saturday Market)
Bo Concept nubby tweed modern couch with chrome legs
