*Editing and Balance* . I've been in my 1300 sq. ft. home for almost ten years. My aesthetic hasn't changed much, but, the way I style my home has. I'm all for using what you have, upcycling, thrifting and having "place" holders. As I've matured, and learned what brings me joy, I've paired back a lot. I don't like visual clutter, I do like to style for the seasons, and the balance happened when I swapped the overly ornate and feminine and added in more rustic/masculine pieces. I learned how to carry a color palette from room to room for a cohesive look and where to add vignettes. I no longer feel like I have to re-invent the wheel for seasonal styling. I try not to style in the same way year-to-year, just use what I have in a fresh way. Home is a sanctuary for me and I enjoy walking in the door and feeling like I just got a warm and cozy embrace. It's a process, not a race. You make small tweaks as you can and eventually it all comes together.
Agree! Splurge on good help. I make well under $20 an hour and am paying someone $80/ hr to help finish my kitchen. I’m going to do the floor and lower beadboard walls and paint, but he and his helper are doing the 220 electrical and hanging heavy cabinets. I’ve got to work 2-1/2 weeks to pay him for one day, but it’s still worth it!
My decorating budget is only $40 a week, sometimes I save for months to get something. I love the game :) and I’ve made huge changes in my house over the years.
For most of our marriage I had $20 a week for all spending money. It took time to bring everything together, but there's so much joy in the journey, don't you think?!
I literally spend most of my time when I’m not working, designing my home to be the sanctuary that I want. I feel like most people don’t understand that but maybe they do maybe there are more people like us. I think it’s a place that makes you feel comfy, safe and away from distractions. Thanks Valentina. ❤
Absolutely fantastic video! I have fallen victim to buying 20 small cheap things instead of the one thing that I really love and/or was a show stopper. I would love a video about the balance in design.
20:55 - 21:37 I couldn agreed more. My husband and I purchase a 1980s home, embarking on years of renovations. Despide my pride in our home, I refrained from inviting friends over during this period, as the constant construction left it looking perpetually messy. Living in a constantly under-construction home was incredible stressful for our marrage, but it taught us valuable lessons about each other. There were countless day where I felt upset and exhausted. As someone who thrives on social interaction and hosting, it was difficult not feeling proud of our home. I missed my friends and the vibrant social life I once had. Finally, when the renovations were complete and our home looked stunning, it was time to sell. looking back, I realized it was bittersweet moment, as the journey had been fraught with constant arguments with my husband over costs, design, and materials. Despite the challenges, that beautiful home stands today as a poignant lesson of life.
Preach it, girl! Your home should be a refuge and should restore your soul. We can’t do much with the space we work in, but our home is in our control. I think that mostly, people need to clean and declutter to feel better.
Valentina i just have to say you are absolutely the best and please never stop laughing and been cheerful and transmitting all that good energie along with all that knowledge that you have💖
My sofa was my first actual "splurge" item. I was buying a big girl sofa for the first time and I wanted to do it right. Got a neutral, classic leather chesterfield, and it has served me SO well over the years. Splurging on the right items saves you money over time.
I made a power move, inspired by you I painted my fireplace dark blue. Everyone was skeptical. I stuck to my vision and now I grin every time I walk into my living room. Thank you Valentina
I learned the power move and balance naturally by watching you for the last 2 years. Just couldn’t describe it. You have changed my decorating life with this idea of power moves and balance.
This is my favorite video from you! Long term universal tips... It can apply to anyone, renters or owners, people at any stage! The compounding mistake, brilliant! Thank you!
What a great video! So many nuggets of wisdom… One of the greatest is that we live in our home and it should be a place of refuge and peace! Thanks for this great video Valentina! Would love a video about power moves and balance in decor… Trying to learn how to be bold but neutral on a budget
Valentina…I recently discovered your channel, and I love it! One of the things you mentioned in this video was realizing that we don’t have to live with our mistakes….I wish I had known this, and given myself permission to let go of the things that were mistakes. I held onto things for years because it was a gift, or it cost a lot of money, or because it had belonged to a dead loved one, or a thousand other different reasons, not realizing that it was within my power to let these mistakes go! Learning this lesson was such a valuable game changer for me….even though my home is very modern and minimal, I only have things in it that I truly want and love…and that makes all the difference in the world!😊
Absolutely. I discovered during decluttering that I was only holding on to things because they were from the 80s or part of a collection (mainly books). I had to ask myself if I liked them or just kept them because they were old. As soon as I put them in the donate pile or bin, there was a sense of relief and each choice was 100% successful for me. One piece I kept was a wood burning I did in ‘83 but I painted over it and turned it into a riser. I’m learning about only having things I love and it is making a massive difference when I need it the most.
Excellent! There is so much truth to the power your environment has to make or break your spirit and enjoyment of life! It’s the same power a personal makeover has. People come alive when they are nurtured deeply and this is one you do with, by and for yourself and loved ones everyday. Thank you for such enlightenment.
👏🏼 Yes! It is such a skill to know what will work in your home, and it’s certainly not something you learn over night. We all need to be easier on ourselves sometimes. Awesome video, Valentina!
You go girl!! You were on fire today! The thing that resonated the most with what you said, was about living with the mistakes we make. I also am a perfectionist. I hate making mistakes! And when it comes to my home I have made several. The willingness to admit to myself that I made a mistake is difficult. But I’ve made some splurgy mistakes that I made myself live with for WAY to long! Thanks for the great reminders today.
I am moving in nine days and needed this video to prioritize and breathe through the process. It is better to live without rather than fill the spaces. I barely know the rhythm of this new and larger home. I am more comfortable with empty spaces, because of your perspective and guidance.
Omg! What you said about making your home a place you love... that is so true! HOME should be your SANCTUARY. I'm so conscious of the things I bring in. If it doesn't bring a sense of joy, no matter how little, it really shouldn't be there. Thank you 💕
Long time follower. I have enjoyed how you have evolved in accessories. I am a lifetime minimalist. Power move… design your home that creates peace when you wake up everyday. Thank you for all your energy and advice!
Valentina, your talk today resonates with me profoundly. I am happy to say that almost from the beginning of my decorating "career" I have followed that advice. I don't own, and never have owned, anything that I didn't love. Some things I gradually outgrew and gave away but I loved them until then. I have items I bought 30 to 40 years ago that I still love and, interestingly, some of them are being touted today as cutting edge design, such as old dough bowls, primitive, aged pots, marble, stone materials. Like you I keep evolving and have enormous fun doing it. Ever since I was 13, when I realized I could actually create my own environment it has been a passion and continual source of joy. But for the internet I would never have known there were others like me. I am so, so grateful for creative people like yourself. They make my life so rich.
So helpful to identify where it’s best to splurge! Loved the clarity that brought. Also appreciated the encouragement to save up for what’s important and to take out what bothers you. And you are SO sweet!! 😊
Valentina, this video has been one of the most amazing video you have ever posted. I have followed you since the beginning and through out all of these years I have learned so much to be selective with my decore. Not only has helped me to keep my home elevated but also to keep my wardrobe elegant and beautiful! Thank you for teaching me and sharing your wisdom! ❤🙏🥰
Oh V you really got me emotional with this one. My house makes me feel down as there's so much needs doing to it. I know if it was all done I would be so happy. I feel like my life has been on hold for so long because of it. Money is a big factor, finding the right trades people to do stuff is another but we hope to start this year (said that before). My health and wellbeing will really improve once it's done, I know it will. People say it's just a house don't worry about it but it means so much more than that to me. You were spot on with everything in this video xx
I really do believe that there's a balance. Yes, it's just a home and it's a process and we can't let the process keep us from enjoying each day we are given, but I think when we begin to move towards the dream the inertia is what also helps us find that peace and joy along the way! xoxo
Its not dangerous to fail. This is the only way to learn. The concept of CALM & POWERFULL is soo good. And how to spend your money. Please talk even more about this. This is so important! Let me yell you, you are the best inspiration on TH-cam! I looove your videos. Love from Denmark 🇩🇰
Forgiving myself for a bad purchase is such a hard thing to do!😂😂😅 but it always feels so great when you admit it and pass it on!❤ I’ve had to learn that the hard way too. Thankyou, Valentina for sharing your wisdom and knowledge with us.
I love to decorate also,I got rid of a lot of stuff and only have out what I love. I don't have money to do a lot of things, but just trimming things down makes it look like I made a difference.Im more relaxed in my home now .Like to watch your videos. Keep on laughing,it's contagious!
yess!! I found some old photos from Morocco and Copenhagen that I think if anyone is interested, I might do a video with to show the progression. At one point we had almost nothing left and then begin the process of rebuilding.
I wish I knew that living with someone that has a complete different view and style than yourself makes it very difficult to realise the dreamhouse that you truly want....and also You Can Not change someones taste!!! ❤
Great video Valentina. I was just admitting to my husband this morning that I made a mistake with our paint choice. Sometimes, you don't know until you are living with something for a while. Hopefully, we will repaint this summer 🤞😊
Firstly, I love the phrase of a ‘power move’ to make your room alive. I’ve heard other designers calling them ‘hero pieces’ to balance a room. However power move describes how impactful and meaningful our favourite pieces can be. What I mostly enjoyed was the emphasis on having a home that you love and the impact it has on you. I truly believe it’s a mental health requirement for all of us to have beauty in our lives. It’s nurturing, soothing and restorative to our whole being. Having a safe and loving place to retreat to is a basic human right, and having them beautiful, artful and creative I think should be considered equally as important. Thank you Valentina for discussing this. In a couple of months, I’m having a kitchen renovation that I’ve waited 16 years for. I’m so excited. It’s going to allow me to do a lot of editing and time to think about what to keep and what to sell. I’ve now got a clarification on how to make those decisions and I’m grateful for it. Thanks again ❤
Yes, your home is your sanctuary! I am in total agreement that admitting a mistake and moving on is the best way to go. In the past I have tried to "make it work" when in reality I should have just donated the piece and moved on. Such great advice.
Hi Valentina, I have been following your channel now for 3 years. I love how you have designed your house. I have the same likings and style. My house is also in black and white but has also incorporated wood. When I saw you started incorporating wood and tan in your house, it just brought a smile on my face and a feeling of achievement as well. I have learned a lot from you. Thanks for your videos.
Goodmorning Valentina, Hope you are having a wonderful Sunday. I eally enjoyed this episode. I hate the idea of spending $$$ ibig bucks on a sofa. I live in a beauiful studio and now I'm feeling that I'll make the investment and get me a descent sofa. I'm looking at something or 3 seating, around $1,000. I now know that I will have to go out and try some sofas before I invest that much money, and I'll have to save for about 3 months to aford one. Listening to you today made me realize , yeah, gor for it girl!
I totally agree Valentina. Unfortunately my biggest home mistake is the wood floors I chose. I hate the stain and I’m stuck. Sanding and refinishing is such a huge mess and inconvenience, I can’t even imagine. But I’ve definitely gone through so many decor items that was time to pass on. It feels so much better to get rid of unused items. The house feels lighter and happier, and of course there’s the fun of buying new ones.
ugh!!! Yeah, when it's a big surface like that it's so painful. Maybe it just goes on the "When it's time" list and in the meantime using rugs to soften the blow can go a long way!
Thank you so much for this video, I really enjoyed it. I love the thought of getting stuff out that you don’t love, even though it was a good deal or it was expensive, if you don’t love it, it should not be in your home. I love my home and as I get older, it’s more important to me to be surrounded by things I love. Also, I just love your passion for what you do; you are so inspiring!!!
I just discovered you/your work/this channel and must thank you for enthusiastically sharing your genuine self. Your energy and commitment is inspiring. Helpful advice, too! I’m grateful.
Great video!! So true , you have to invest in the things that get the most wear and tear. You and Jack are my favorites for sure. Much love to you and family ❤
100% agree with all of your points and their relevant no matter what style you choose. I think your house is absolutely gorgeous, but I could never live in it, the same way. You could probably never live in my house because I am a color lover. That being said, I use original oil art pieces as power pieces in my house, and I don't splurge on items that may be trendy or are easy to replace and change out. The one thing I would caution, I don't do overly expensive candles, but I don't do cheap candles because the better quality candles with less chemicals and more pure ingredients do tend to come at a higher cost
I 💯 percent agree with everything you said in this video!! My home is my happy place & after living here for 9 years now, I finally have it pretty much mistake proof! There is no place like home, as Dorothy would say.
Oh, mistakes! I have an art piece that was gifted to us (from my art collector friend) that is the color inspiration for our living room. Well I had bought a grey sofa that was SO WRONG for all the other colors I wanted in the room. I groaned about it for months, and I knew my husband would not be happy, but I finally just sold it and replaced it with THE CORRECT COLOR sofa (from Pottery Barn) that made a huge difference. You are SO RIGHT about forgiving ourselves and just getting rid of the mistakes.
Look at you getting all philosophical before you even had your coffee! Luring us in with the pretty things and keeping us around with deep thoughts. All good advice though. As I get older, I feel like I'm getting better at balancing the save items and splurge items but it took some time. And then I got a cat and had to learn that lesson all over again! She doesn't need every cute cat toy and bed - she mostly just wants to hang out in a box or on fresh laundry! But learning to show restraint is a big one - how often do we buy something because it's a good deal just to find out that it doesn't fit your lifestyle or decor?! It's an ever evolving process.
I love this 'soapbox' video, Valenina. Thanks for teaching us how to choose, then focus on things that are most important to us. I think your principles work for both money and time... decorating and life in general.
Valetina, you make me feel so much better. During my home renovation I have commited a lot of mistakes, still getting them fixed. I was feeling really bad untill now, thank you so much❤
You made such a brilliant video with no coffee? (Clutching my pearls….) This video was eye opening and made me feel better. We love our home but there are certain areas that need a defibrillator! I really need to dive down into your videos because I need help! ❤ Thank you for your beautiful spirit!
I’m a fairly new subscriber and this video has helped me….so much! I’m sitting in my home and it looks like my Mom. I’ll explain. I like antiques; much of my home is filled with really beautiful antiques that I’ve collected but more so, have been given to me by my parents. In the last few years my style has been changing and something has begun to really irritate me. As you were talking it was dawning on me that I’m surrounded by things that look like my Mother, not me. There’s been an obligation to keep them because they’ve been gifts, heirlooms, and they’re valuable. It’s time to fill my home with objects that more accurately reflect my tastes, and I’m not going to keep things out of obligation. Of course there will be some that I keep because I really love them, but I don’t love a lot of it. Thank you for this video.
Fb marketplace and consignment stores might help a lot. By all means try to get more from your valuable pieces, but realize lots of antiques aren’t as valuable as most people think.
Unbeknownst to you, you have literally helped me redesign my whole living room and kitchen… You’re my little interior design TH-cam Yoda. Thank you for the video!!!
I live on a content budget, and I love watching and learning from you on how to better my life. In a few years I will be moving to Utah selling my 16x80 mobile home and wanting to size down to 12x30 1 car garage converting to my home. I'm planning my interior style to a simple one. I LOVE your design so very much. I live alone with my two kitties, and I don't need a lot of room anymore, especially since I don't like to clean house. Watching this video has helped me in so many ways especially the power moves and balancing the eye to a restful way. The mistakes that I have made in my life had been a learning curve and I can choose to live life better. I love you and Jack so very much. Thank you for sharing your lives with us, ~linda, Texas
You have always been, and continue to be, so inspiring with your passion of design and helping people achieve their own perfect safe space. We have lived in the Middle East 25 years and when returning to Uk had to mix a relaxed light wood beach feel furniture from our UK home , now mixed with the more formal Dubai style furniture we brought back. I have kept only what a love, added a few other pieces of furniture, and with your guidance, have managed to create what I feel is a stylish home filled with things I love and enjoy seeing everyday. keep on inspiring us Valentina. You are fab ❤ xx
This is such an important message, Valentina. I actually had to explain to my sister that she didn’t need to keep everything I ever gave her. Letting go is okay. Here’s an extension of this same line of thinking. When someone “needs” to pass something forward to me, I accept … without question … in order to help them. It’s kind of a service really. It’s so hard for some people to let things go … well past the time when the thing last “sparked joy.” Sometimes they really want to let go, but have guilt …. unless …. unless they “gift it.” Of course, I pass it forward, donate, or recycle the thing more easily, because I don’t have the same emotional attachment. Super helpful for relatives downsizing. The funny thing is that even though the person realizes those end tables or that frame, book, etc. did not end up in my living room, they never ask, because they don’t actually want the thing back. 😅
Oh I just loved this video .... definitely agree with buying a good statement piece rather than itsy bits that clutter your home ..I've totally been there thanks so much for sharing xx
Love the story about the pink poof!! Actually it's a relief to hear I'm allowed to make mistakes! Phew. I love the wisdom and authenticity in this video. Thank you
You have such an infectious personality along with superb taste. And from one perfectionist to another, I aim for perfection with every item within my home. And as a homebody, I must surround myself with the best that my money can buy so I identify with your sentiments expressed in this Vlog. Life is short, make it sweet, beautiful.
I would really appreciate a video on the key subject of power balance in a room - thank you for your lively and informative videos! Thank you for your sincerity and passion 🧡
Thank you for your inspiration and all the help you provide. I need to start letting things go because I am surrounded by so many decor that I dislike but I couldn’t get rid of it because it was expensive. I used to love z gallerie years ago and I got tons of decor from them. I believe this is a good sign to start selling them and buy more modern organic look items that I have been wanting for a while now
Omg! This was such a powerful message for me and one that I'm finally doing at the age of 59, I'm finally hitting my stride and what my style is in my home. Thank you so much for this message as we bought flooring 4 years ago that still hasn't been installed lol. Love your channel.
I’m learning to sew. Friend gave me a sewing machine. My house needs shades & curtains for all the windows, and I have in mind exactly the look I want, along with a taste for quality fabric (champagne taste in fabric on a beer budget). I can’t afford custom window treatments, but even store bought shades & curtains run into hundreds of dollars. Am finding real pleasure in looking at and choosing fabric. Made by first pillowcase today. $4 a yard from the remnant table. Trim band & border, cool ! French seams are awesome.
❤Thank you! Like always, you had me chuckling. 😁💛🤗 That last tip:”not compounding my mistake” and move on, is one I definitely need to put into practice. I’ve learned, since I had my kitchen & 2 bathrooms remodeled 4 years ago, buying accessories I liked, not loved, wasn’t going to make my house feel the way I wanted it to feel. It only cluttered it. The remodel made the difference. And then I started watching your channel and realized I wasnt being intentional with my accessorizing. So, restraint has been one I’ve put into practice. But my goodness, woman, may I just say, watching your videos on the different hauls you make pose a very difficult challenge for me to stay the course. 🤭 Like your recent H&M haul with all the amazing finds you shared-vase, candle, pillow case, etc.- I be like, “*Gasp* Love! I’ll take that, that and that.” Aaand they are arriving at my doorstep tomorrow.😳🫣 I need to restrain myself from watching your haul videos 😉😄 In all seriousness, you’re a delight and your videos inspire me to change for the better. This one was timely, especially at the end-. “Start today” and “Make one small step.”-I have a lot of “stuff” I need to purge and I struggle to let go, but now I’m gonna move frwd & keep telling myself along the way, “Remove the things you don’t love,” and “don’t compound your mistakes and move on.” Thank you so much! Hugs and love from the Westcoast 🤗❤️
Valentina, I just adore you and I am so thankful for you. You are such a breath of fresh air. I can’t always afford to buy things for my home but when I am ready to buy something I always look to you first because you really think out the things you present to us and make sure that we are getting something worth while, and if I’m going to buy something and I can buy it from a sweet person like you, well, that’s a win-win for me. This is one of my favorite videos from you in a long time. Thank you, Valentina ❤ But to answer your question: I get a little bit of A.D.D. compulsivity and buy things that don’t fit in my space, whether stylistically or otherwise. I need to practice restraint. I also have a hard time passing on a good deal. Anyway, thank you, again.
😅This message was so heartfelt, it was very touching. I could identify with everything thing you said. Honestly, you made me stop and think about my purchases. Thank you!❤
Oh my goodness! You are so right ! When I see something I like I ask myself do you really have a place for it and do you really need it right now because I love my home the way we have decorated it. You and Jack are the best!
*Editing and Balance* . I've been in my 1300 sq. ft. home for almost ten years. My aesthetic hasn't changed much, but, the way I style my home has. I'm all for using what you have, upcycling, thrifting and having "place" holders. As I've matured, and learned what brings me joy, I've paired back a lot. I don't like visual clutter, I do like to style for the seasons, and the balance happened when I swapped the overly ornate and feminine and added in more rustic/masculine pieces. I learned how to carry a color palette from room to room for a cohesive look and where to add vignettes. I no longer feel like I have to re-invent the wheel for seasonal styling. I try not to style in the same way year-to-year, just use what I have in a fresh way. Home is a sanctuary for me and I enjoy walking in the door and feeling like I just got a warm and cozy embrace. It's a process, not a race. You make small tweaks as you can and eventually it all comes together.
ahhh! This just makes me so so happy!!
Love this!
Love this!!!
Agree! Splurge on good help. I make well under $20 an hour and am paying someone $80/ hr to help finish my kitchen. I’m going to do the floor and lower beadboard walls and paint, but he and his helper are doing the 220 electrical and hanging heavy cabinets. I’ve got to work 2-1/2 weeks to pay him for one day, but it’s still worth it!
Thank you. You made all the points I was trying to make. Love it!
One of your best videos yet! Interior Psychiatry ❤️❤️❤️❤️
You coined a great phrase. Love it 🙌
eeekkk!! thank you and yes! I really believe it is so powerful!
My decorating budget is only $40 a week, sometimes I save for months to get something. I love the game :) and I’ve made huge changes in my house over the years.
For most of our marriage I had $20 a week for all spending money. It took time to bring everything together, but there's so much joy in the journey, don't you think?!
@@HouseofValentina yes! It’s a fun fun game!
$40/week is a lot for me..that's basically what I do per month
I literally spend most of my time when I’m not working, designing my home to be the sanctuary that I want. I feel like most people don’t understand that but maybe they do maybe there are more people like us. I think it’s a place that makes you feel comfy, safe and away from distractions.
Thanks Valentina. ❤
Absolutely fantastic video! I have fallen victim to buying 20 small cheap things instead of the one thing that I really love and/or was a show stopper. I would love a video about the balance in design.
Yes to more content about how to create a balance of power move and calm!
To me, this was one of your best videos! It really helps prioritize the purchases when creating your home. Great Video
oh yay! I'm so glad you found it helpful! xoxo
Love this video.
I agree, loved ❤ it.
Amen….what a wonderful discussion! Thank you!!!!
20:55 - 21:37 I couldn agreed more. My husband and I purchase a 1980s home, embarking on years of renovations. Despide my pride in our home, I refrained from inviting friends over during this period, as the constant construction left it looking perpetually messy. Living in a constantly under-construction home was incredible stressful for our marrage, but it taught us valuable lessons about each other. There were countless day where I felt upset and exhausted. As someone who thrives on social interaction and hosting, it was difficult not feeling proud of our home. I missed my friends and the vibrant social life I once had. Finally, when the renovations were complete and our home looked stunning, it was time to sell. looking back, I realized it was bittersweet moment, as the journey had been fraught with constant arguments with my husband over costs, design, and materials. Despite the challenges, that beautiful home stands today as a poignant lesson of life.
Preach it, girl! Your home should be a refuge and should restore your soul. We can’t do much with the space we work in, but our home is in our control. I think that mostly, people need to clean and declutter to feel better.
yess!! that's so true! It's so therapeutic just to purge and clean!
Well said Julie!
Valentina i just have to say you are absolutely the best and please never stop laughing and been cheerful and transmitting all that good energie along with all that knowledge that you have💖
It’s so true the people that follow this channel are some of the kindest generous souls, my home is being transformed one wall at a time!!
My sofa was my first actual "splurge" item. I was buying a big girl sofa for the first time and I wanted to do it right. Got a neutral, classic leather chesterfield, and it has served me SO well over the years. Splurging on the right items saves you money over time.
I wish I had done that from the beginning! That's such a good example of what we can achieve by making wise choices along the way!
I made a power move, inspired by you I painted my fireplace dark blue. Everyone was skeptical. I stuck to my vision and now I grin every time I walk into my living room. Thank you Valentina
This is best video you have ever made, in my opinion. Concrete suggestions, genuine, humble advice, and a grateful ending. Thanks!
Wow, thank you so much!!
I learned the power move and balance naturally by watching you for the last 2 years. Just couldn’t describe it. You have changed my decorating life with this idea of power moves and balance.
This is my favorite video from you! Long term universal tips... It can apply to anyone, renters or owners, people at any stage! The compounding mistake, brilliant! Thank you!
What a great video! So many nuggets of wisdom… One of the greatest is that we live in our home and it should be a place of refuge and peace! Thanks for this great video Valentina! Would love a video about power moves and balance in decor… Trying to learn how to be bold but neutral on a budget
By far, the most powerful and best episode yet. 👍🏴
And, yes I would love to hear more about creating a balance between power and calm pieces in my cozy apartment!!
Valentina…I recently discovered your channel, and I love it! One of the things you mentioned in this video was realizing that we don’t have to live with our mistakes….I wish I had known this, and given myself permission to let go of the things that were mistakes. I held onto things for years because it was a gift, or it cost a lot of money, or because it had belonged to a dead loved one, or a thousand other different reasons, not realizing that it was within my power to let these mistakes go! Learning this lesson was such a valuable game changer for me….even though my home is very modern and minimal, I only have things in it that I truly want and love…and that makes all the difference in the world!😊
Absolutely. I discovered during decluttering that I was only holding on to things because they were from the 80s or part of a collection (mainly books). I had to ask myself if I liked them or just kept them because they were old. As soon as I put them in the donate pile or bin, there was a sense of relief and each choice was 100% successful for me. One piece I kept was a wood burning I did in ‘83 but I painted over it and turned it into a riser. I’m learning about only having things I love and it is making a massive difference when I need it the most.
Excellent! There is so much truth to the power your environment has to make or break your spirit and enjoyment of life! It’s the same power a personal makeover has. People come alive when they are nurtured deeply and this is one you do with, by and for yourself and loved ones everyday. Thank you for such enlightenment.
👏🏼 Yes! It is such a skill to know what will work in your home, and it’s certainly not something you learn over night. We all need to be easier on ourselves sometimes. Awesome video, Valentina!
👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼 awesome video! Sometimes we just need to hear it’s ok to get rid of something!
You go girl!! You were on fire today!
The thing that resonated the most with what you said, was about living with the mistakes we make. I also am a perfectionist. I hate making mistakes! And when it comes to my home I have made several. The willingness to admit to myself that I made a mistake is difficult. But I’ve made some splurgy mistakes that I made myself live with for WAY to long!
Thanks for the great reminders today.
I am moving in nine days and needed this video to prioritize and breathe through the process. It is better to live without rather than fill the spaces. I barely know the rhythm of this new and larger home. I am more comfortable with empty spaces, because of your perspective and guidance.
Omg! What you said about making your home a place you love... that is so true! HOME should be your SANCTUARY. I'm so conscious of the things I bring in. If it doesn't bring a sense of joy, no matter how little, it really shouldn't be there. Thank you 💕
Long time follower. I have enjoyed how you have evolved in accessories. I am a lifetime minimalist. Power move… design your home that creates peace when you wake up everyday. Thank you for all your energy and advice!
Valentina, your talk today resonates with me profoundly. I am happy to say that almost from the beginning of my decorating "career" I have followed that advice. I don't own, and never have owned, anything that I didn't love. Some things I gradually outgrew and gave away but I loved them until then. I have items I bought 30 to 40 years ago that I still love and, interestingly, some of them are being touted today as cutting edge design, such as old dough bowls, primitive, aged pots, marble, stone materials. Like you I keep evolving and have enormous fun doing it. Ever since I was 13, when I realized I could actually create my own environment it has been a passion and continual source of joy. But for the internet I would never have known there were others like me. I am so, so grateful for creative people like yourself. They make my life so rich.
You’re incredible! Decluttering now! You give me direction instead of being overwhelmed! Thanks❤
Valentina!!! You are a hoot, your energy is off the charts awesome, absolutely love yoir channel!!!!
Oh Dear I am elated every time You are here !😂❤😅😊❤
I feel the same way about you guys!! Truly! I'm so happy the internet helped us find each other!
So helpful to identify where it’s best to splurge! Loved the clarity that brought. Also appreciated the encouragement to save up for what’s important and to take out what bothers you. And you are SO sweet!! 😊
Valentina, this video has been one of the most amazing video you have ever posted. I have followed you since the beginning and through out all of these years I have learned so much to be selective with my decore. Not only has helped me to keep my home elevated but also to keep my wardrobe elegant and beautiful! Thank you for teaching me and sharing your wisdom! ❤🙏🥰
I had a silk scarf and had it made in to pillows, they are gorgeous!
oooohh! I did that with some of my maternity clothes. I turned them into pillows so I could remember those sweet days!
I love you too! I get so much from your videos and I love your heart. ❤
Wow, thank you!
Oh V you really got me emotional with this one. My house makes me feel down as there's so much needs doing to it. I know if it was all done I would be so happy. I feel like my life has been on hold for so long because of it. Money is a big factor, finding the right trades people to do stuff is another but we hope to start this year (said that before). My health and wellbeing will really improve once it's done, I know it will. People say it's just a house don't worry about it but it means so much more than that to me. You were spot on with everything in this video xx
I really do believe that there's a balance. Yes, it's just a home and it's a process and we can't let the process keep us from enjoying each day we are given, but I think when we begin to move towards the dream the inertia is what also helps us find that peace and joy along the way! xoxo
Thank you V x
“If you luck out and hate it early enough …” Yeeeesssss! 😂
Its not dangerous to fail. This is the only way to learn. The concept of CALM & POWERFULL is soo good. And how to spend your money. Please talk even more about this. This is so important! Let me yell you, you are the best inspiration on TH-cam! I looove your videos. Love from Denmark 🇩🇰
After Years of following You it just keeps getting more exciting every time You Teach !😁😁😁😁😁
yay!! I'm so happy to be on this journey with you!!
Forgiving myself for a bad purchase is such a hard thing to do!😂😂😅 but it always feels so great when you admit it and pass it on!❤ I’ve had to learn that the hard way too. Thankyou, Valentina for sharing your wisdom and knowledge with us.
We really do beat ourselves up about it, don't we?
I love to decorate also,I got rid of a lot of stuff and only have out what I love. I don't have money to do a lot of things, but just trimming things down makes it look like I made a difference.Im more relaxed in my home now .Like to watch your videos. Keep on laughing,it's contagious!
yess!! I found some old photos from Morocco and Copenhagen that I think if anyone is interested, I might do a video with to show the progression. At one point we had almost nothing left and then begin the process of rebuilding.
I wish I knew that living with someone that has a complete different view and style than yourself makes it very difficult to realise the dreamhouse that you truly want....and also You Can Not change someones taste!!! ❤
That can be a very big challenge and definitely requires compromise on both sides!
@@HouseofValentinait’s a BIG challenge and it’s a great time to hire an interior designer ❤
I love the black and white decor-Stunning!
I completely agree! We all deserve to live in beautiful homes that make us feel warm, cozy and content
Great video Valentina. I was just admitting to my husband this morning that I made a mistake with our paint choice. Sometimes, you don't know until you are living with something for a while. Hopefully, we will repaint this summer 🤞😊
It's painful, but sometimes you just need to change it! You will always be happier in the end!
Firstly, I love the phrase of a ‘power move’ to make your room alive. I’ve heard other designers calling them ‘hero pieces’ to balance a room. However power move describes how impactful and meaningful our favourite pieces can be.
What I mostly enjoyed was the emphasis on having a home that you love and the impact it has on you. I truly believe it’s a mental health requirement for all of us to have beauty in our lives. It’s nurturing, soothing and restorative to our whole being. Having a safe and loving place to retreat to is a basic human right, and having them beautiful, artful and creative I think should be considered equally as important. Thank you Valentina for discussing this.
In a couple of months, I’m having a kitchen renovation that I’ve waited 16 years for. I’m so excited. It’s going to allow me to do a lot of editing and time to think about what to keep and what to sell. I’ve now got a clarification on how to make those decisions and I’m grateful for it. Thanks again ❤
Thank you for this video. When I watch you, I feel like I can do anything
I love the only add things in your home that you love.
I 💯 agree with you, Valentina. Only have the things that you love in your home. And you will feel calm and relaxing. 😊
Yes, your home is your sanctuary! I am in total agreement that admitting a mistake and moving on is the best way to go. In the past I have tried to "make it work" when in reality I should have just donated the piece and moved on. Such great advice.
Hi Valentina, I have been following your channel now for 3 years. I love how you have designed your house. I have the same likings and style. My house is also in black and white but has also incorporated wood. When I saw you started incorporating wood and tan in your house, it just brought a smile on my face and a feeling of achievement as well. I have learned a lot from you. Thanks for your videos.
Goodmorning Valentina, Hope you are having a wonderful Sunday. I eally enjoyed this episode. I hate the idea of spending $$$ ibig bucks on a sofa. I live in a beauiful studio and now I'm feeling that I'll make the investment and get me a descent sofa. I'm looking at something or 3 seating, around $1,000. I now know that I will have to go out and try some sofas before I invest that much money, and I'll have to save for about 3 months to aford one. Listening to you today made me realize , yeah, gor for it girl!
I totally agree Valentina. Unfortunately my biggest home mistake is the wood floors I chose. I hate the stain and I’m stuck. Sanding and refinishing is such a huge mess and inconvenience, I can’t even imagine. But I’ve definitely gone through so many decor items that was time to pass on. It feels so much better to get rid of unused items. The house feels lighter and happier, and of course there’s the fun of buying new ones.
ugh!!! Yeah, when it's a big surface like that it's so painful. Maybe it just goes on the "When it's time" list and in the meantime using rugs to soften the blow can go a long way!
Valentina! You are hilarious!! I love watching your videos, they give the best advice and make me smile.
aww! yay!! 😘😘
Thank you so much for this video, I really enjoyed it. I love the thought of getting stuff out that you don’t love, even though it was a good deal or it was expensive, if you don’t love it, it should not be in your home. I love my home and as I get older, it’s more important to me to be surrounded by things I love. Also, I just love your passion for what you do; you are so inspiring!!!
You are so welcome!
Yes please! Do a whole video about the balance of power and calm (per your comments at around 15 mins in)! 😊
I just discovered you/your work/this channel and must thank you for enthusiastically sharing your genuine self. Your energy and commitment is inspiring. Helpful advice, too! I’m grateful.
I love your energy, passion and laugh. Infectious. Thank you for all the great advice. We have just bought our Dream Villa. Loving your channel.
Great video!! So true , you have to invest in the things that get the most wear and tear. You and Jack are my favorites for sure. Much love to you and family ❤
Best video. The guilt we feel after we buy and regret is real.
100% agree with all of your points and their relevant no matter what style you choose. I think your house is absolutely gorgeous, but I could never live in it, the same way. You could probably never live in my house because I am a color lover. That being said, I use original oil art pieces as power pieces in my house, and I don't splurge on items that may be trendy or are easy to replace and change out. The one thing I would caution, I don't do overly expensive candles, but I don't do cheap candles because the better quality candles with less chemicals and more pure ingredients do tend to come at a higher cost
That's so true about the candles! And many of my family and friends has loads of color in their home and I genuinely enjoy it with them!
I 💯 percent agree with everything you said in this video!! My home is my happy place & after living here for 9 years now, I finally have it pretty much mistake proof! There is no place like home, as Dorothy would say.
Oh, mistakes! I have an art piece that was gifted to us (from my art collector friend) that is the color inspiration for our living room. Well I had bought a grey sofa that was SO WRONG for all the other colors I wanted in the room. I groaned about it for months, and I knew my husband would not be happy, but I finally just sold it and replaced it with THE CORRECT COLOR sofa (from Pottery Barn) that made a huge difference. You are SO RIGHT about forgiving ourselves and just getting rid of the mistakes.
OMG that hotel lobby!!! I keep going back to pause the video. It's like a really good movie - you find something new every time you view it.
Look at you getting all philosophical before you even had your coffee! Luring us in with the pretty things and keeping us around with deep thoughts. All good advice though. As I get older, I feel like I'm getting better at balancing the save items and splurge items but it took some time. And then I got a cat and had to learn that lesson all over again! She doesn't need every cute cat toy and bed - she mostly just wants to hang out in a box or on fresh laundry! But learning to show restraint is a big one - how often do we buy something because it's a good deal just to find out that it doesn't fit your lifestyle or decor?! It's an ever evolving process.
I love this 'soapbox' video, Valenina. Thanks for teaching us how to choose, then focus on things that are most important to us. I think your principles work for both money and time... decorating and life in general.
Love Love you so much ❤and your husband you guys are the best!
Valetina, you make me feel so much better. During my home renovation I have commited a lot of mistakes, still getting them fixed. I was feeling really bad untill now, thank you so much❤
LOVED this video! Gotta go! I need to get rid of things in my home I don’t love. Thank you!!
You made such a brilliant video with no coffee? (Clutching my pearls….)
This video was eye opening and made me feel better. We love our home but there are certain areas that need a defibrillator! I really need to dive down into your videos because I need help! ❤ Thank you for your beautiful spirit!
Love this video! These two phrases “showing restraint and knowing what to spurge” are so true!
You are hilarious Valentina!❤ Thanks for all you do, and more importantly sharing your knowledge each and every week. You are one of a kind.,❤🙏
I’m a fairly new subscriber and this video has helped me….so much! I’m sitting in my home and it looks like my Mom. I’ll explain.
I like antiques; much of my home is filled with really beautiful antiques that I’ve collected but more so, have been given to me by my parents.
In the last few years my style has been changing and something has begun to really irritate me. As you were talking it was dawning on me that I’m surrounded by things that look like my Mother, not me. There’s been an obligation to keep them because they’ve been gifts, heirlooms, and they’re valuable.
It’s time to fill my home with objects that more accurately reflect my tastes, and I’m not going to keep things out of obligation. Of course there will be some that I keep because I really love them, but I don’t love a lot of it.
Thank you for this video.
Fb marketplace and consignment stores might help a lot. By all means try to get more from your valuable pieces, but realize lots of antiques aren’t as valuable as most people think.
Unbeknownst to you, you have literally helped me redesign my whole living room and kitchen… You’re my little interior design TH-cam Yoda. Thank you for the video!!!
ahhh!! You are going to make me cry! That makes me so happy!! xoxo
I live on a content budget, and I love watching and learning from you on how to better my life. In a few years I will be moving to Utah selling my 16x80 mobile home and wanting to size down to 12x30 1 car garage converting to my home. I'm planning my interior style to a simple one. I LOVE your design so very much. I live alone with my two kitties, and I don't need a lot of room anymore, especially since I don't like to clean house. Watching this video has helped me in so many ways especially the power moves and balancing the eye to a restful way. The mistakes that I have made in my life had been a learning curve and I can choose to live life better. I love you and Jack so very much. Thank you for sharing your lives with us, ~linda, Texas
You have always been, and continue to be, so inspiring with your passion of design and helping people achieve their own perfect safe space. We have lived in the Middle East 25 years and when returning to Uk had to mix a relaxed light wood beach feel furniture from our UK home , now mixed with the more formal Dubai style furniture we brought back. I have kept only what a love, added a few other pieces of furniture, and with your guidance, have managed to create what I feel is a stylish home filled with things I love and enjoy seeing everyday. keep on inspiring us Valentina. You are fab ❤ xx
eeekkk! This makes me so happy! I have goosebumps just thinking about that amazing mix! I know it's gorgeous!
This is such an important message, Valentina. I actually had to explain to my sister that she didn’t need to keep everything I ever gave her. Letting go is okay. Here’s an extension of this same line of thinking. When someone “needs” to pass something forward to me, I accept … without question … in order to help them. It’s kind of a service really. It’s so hard for some people to let things go … well past the time when the thing last “sparked joy.” Sometimes they really want to let go, but have guilt …. unless …. unless they “gift it.” Of course, I pass it forward, donate, or recycle the thing more easily, because I don’t have the same emotional attachment. Super helpful for relatives downsizing. The funny thing is that even though the person realizes those end tables or that frame, book, etc. did not end up in my living room, they never ask, because they don’t actually want the thing back. 😅
You were preaching!! ❤😂 "Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." - Winston Churchill
So many pearls of wisdom in this video. Thank you, Valentina!
Oh I just loved this video .... definitely agree with buying a good statement piece rather than itsy bits that clutter your home ..I've totally been there thanks so much for sharing xx
Well said, Valentina❤❤❤
Love the story about the pink poof!! Actually it's a relief to hear I'm allowed to make mistakes! Phew. I love the wisdom and authenticity in this video. Thank you
Definitely a video on Balance. I have learned so much from your videos.
You have such an infectious personality along with superb taste. And from one perfectionist to another, I aim for perfection with every item within my home. And as a homebody, I must surround myself with the best that my money can buy so I identify with your sentiments expressed in this Vlog. Life is short, make it sweet, beautiful.
Thank you Valentina 🙏 for all you do.❤️
Love you and so happy I found you.
🙏
I would really appreciate a video on the key subject of power balance in a room - thank you for your lively and informative videos! Thank you for your sincerity and passion 🧡
Thank you for your inspiration and all the help you provide. I need to start letting things go because I am surrounded by so many decor that I dislike but I couldn’t get rid of it because it was expensive. I used to love z gallerie years ago and I got tons of decor from them. I believe this is a good sign to start selling them and buy more modern organic look items that I have been wanting for a while now
Seriously !!! Learning where to spurge!! Huge!! Valentina you are right!!!
Omg! This was such a powerful message for me and one that I'm finally doing at the age of 59, I'm finally hitting my stride and what my style is in my home. Thank you so much for this message as we bought flooring 4 years ago that still hasn't been installed lol. Love your channel.
You are such an inspiration!! Stay true to you .... and so glad you have PURE JOY! ❤
I’m learning to sew. Friend gave me a sewing machine. My house needs shades & curtains for all the windows, and I have in mind exactly the look I want, along with a taste for quality fabric (champagne taste in fabric on a beer budget). I can’t afford custom window treatments, but even store bought shades & curtains run into hundreds of dollars. Am finding real pleasure in looking at and choosing fabric. Made by first pillowcase today. $4 a yard from the remnant table. Trim band & border, cool ! French seams are awesome.
❤Thank you! Like always, you had me chuckling. 😁💛🤗
That last tip:”not compounding my mistake” and move on, is one I definitely need to put into practice. I’ve learned, since I had my kitchen & 2 bathrooms remodeled 4 years ago, buying accessories I liked, not loved, wasn’t going to make my house feel the way I wanted it to feel. It only cluttered it. The remodel made the difference. And then I started watching your channel and realized I wasnt being intentional with my accessorizing. So, restraint has been one I’ve put into practice. But my goodness, woman, may I just say, watching your videos on the different hauls you make pose a very difficult challenge for me to stay the course. 🤭 Like your recent H&M haul with all the amazing finds you shared-vase, candle, pillow case, etc.- I be like, “*Gasp* Love! I’ll take that, that and that.” Aaand they are arriving at my doorstep tomorrow.😳🫣 I need to restrain myself from watching your haul videos 😉😄
In all seriousness, you’re a delight and your videos inspire me to change for the better. This one was timely, especially at the end-. “Start today” and “Make one small step.”-I have a lot of “stuff” I need to purge and I struggle to let go, but now I’m gonna move frwd & keep telling myself along the way, “Remove the things you don’t love,” and “don’t compound your mistakes and move on.” Thank you so much! Hugs and love from the Westcoast 🤗❤️
Thank you Valentina!!! I think you were talking directly to me! I was even drinking coffee while listening. :)
Thank you so much , we learn a lot 🙌🏾.I enjoyed everything in this video 🙏🏾. We are blessed to have you Valentina 💕.
Valentina, I just adore you and I am so thankful for you. You are such a breath of fresh air. I can’t always afford to buy things for my home but when I am ready to buy something I always look to you first because you really think out the things you present to us and make sure that we are getting something worth while, and if I’m going to buy something and I can buy it from a sweet person like you, well, that’s a win-win for me. This is one of my favorite videos from you in a long time. Thank you, Valentina ❤
But to answer your question: I get a little bit of A.D.D. compulsivity and buy things that don’t fit in my space, whether stylistically or otherwise. I need to practice restraint. I also have a hard time passing on a good deal. Anyway, thank you, again.
I like your advice I only going to fill my house with thing I love 💕 I believe in myself ❤
Ah! You are going to make me cry! I wish we all had that confidence. "I believe in myself." Those are powerful words to live by!
Such empowering messages! Just what I needed now!
Thank you for your contribution! love your energyI
You are so welcome!
Yes, mama!
❤❤❤
😅This message was so heartfelt, it was very touching. I could identify with everything thing you said. Honestly, you made me stop and think about my purchases. Thank you!❤
Oh my goodness! You are so right ! When I see something I like I ask myself do you really have a place for it and do you really need it right now because I love my home the way we have decorated it. You and Jack are the best!