2.Homebody 101: How to Use This

Homebody 101: How to Use This Book

01 SETTLE IN

First things first: Light a candle, pour yourself a cup of coffee or a fresh iced drink, and get comfortable. Consider this book your tool, or somewhat of a companion, here to guide you toward a better understanding of how to create rooms that look and feel like you. This is how you begin to create spaces that you love to be in.

02 FRAME OF MIND

This part is really important: As you go through this book, remember that your home should be a reflection of you. It’s essential to understand that it isn’t about arbitrary design rules or guidelines, but rather owning your story and loving the home you’re in today. Then you can begin to see that there’s no point in comparing what you have (or don’t have) with others. Every word, takeaway, and photo in this book is meant to cheer you on toward creating spaces where you love to be, whether you live in a rented apartment or your first (or third) owned home. It really isn’t about a someday dream house, it’s about today. No matter the size or shape of the place where you live, it is worthy of gratitude because it’s home and it’s yours.

03 LEARN TO IDENTIFY

In the first chapter, you’ll find a breakdown of six core design styles. I consider these to be the foundational genres that help make up your personal style. By being aware of which ones resonate with you, you’ll begin to define and navigate your preferences. Throughout the book, you will find a unique mix of homes that I’ve designed as well as a few that were designed by others. Each of these homes represents a particular style profile that blends two or more of the core genres I’ve outlined to show how personal styles are iterated in different people’s spaces.

04 THINK CRITICALLY

At the beginning of each chapter, I’ve proposed specific design components for you to consider as you make your way through each room. As you assess the spaces, do so with a critical eye, studying the styles and details that you see. Thinking critically is not about being critical. Rather, it’s with thoughtful consideration that you can begin to identify the things you’re drawn to and find yourself resisting. This approach will help you take stock of the design choices that really resonate with you.

05 TAKE NOTES

Any time something resonates with you, write it down. Take note of things you like as well as those things that you dislike—both are equally informing. This is also where I hope you’ll begin to dream up ideas for the rooms in your own home.

06 TROUBLESHOOT

At the end of each chapter you’ll find a section that offers practical solutions for the most common pain points we experience in our homes, such as low lighting, small spaces, and outdated elements. I suggest a few examples for how you can troubleshoot these potential problem areas. Sometimes all it takes is a small mind-set shift or some creative reimagining to solve the design challenges in your home.

07 USE THE GUIDE

My hope is that by the end of this book, you’ve gained the confidence you need to translate what you’ve learned into the design of your own home. The design template at the very back will help, with sections designated for sketching a floor plan, troubleshooting, calls to action, where to eliminate, and where to invest. If you need more room to dream, you can print additional templates at magnolia.com/homebody. Now it’s time to get started. You’ve got this!