Personal Aesthetic

When it comes to design, I wouldn’t say that my overall personal aesthetic adheres strictly to any specific movement, but my tastes in interior design and fashion strongly favor minimalism and utility. I gravitate toward earth tones, black and white, wood grain, and white lighting—colors and textures that provide a sense of calm, balance, and functionality.

In terms of interior design, I find myself drawn to furniture that emphasizes clean lines and practicality. This preference has led me to collect Scandinavian modern and Mid-Century Modern pieces whenever possible. Both of these styles emphasize function and beauty, with a focus on natural materials and timeless silhouettes. Budget constraints and the fluctuating availability of secondhand furniture have prevented me from committing entirely to this aesthetic in my current home. Still, I have been able to acquire some well-designed pieces through platforms like Facebook Marketplace. While some of my furniture is made from engineered wood (such as IKEA products), I am gradually incorporating these secondhand higher-quality pieces into my space as I refine my collection.

[1] The discontinued IKEA Mandal bed frame, which I found on FB Marketplace.

 

[2] An Ethan Allen Radius dresser, which I was able to find on FB marketplace and refinish.

My appreciation for minimalist furniture design likely stems from my childhood. My mother worked in the furniture industry when I was growing up, which allowed her to bring home some interesting furniture come bonus season. Some of these designs resonated with me, and over time, I developed a deep appreciation for higher-end furniture and the modern aesthetic. Though I can’t pinpoint an exact moment that sparked this preference, I have always been drawn to MCM’s balance of form and function.

Beyond interior design, my fashion choices also reflect a similar ethos. I favor function and simplicity, often wearing plain clothes in neutral colors—earth tones, black, and white. Workwear brands make up a significant portion of my wardrobe due to their durability, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. Like my furniture choices, my clothing emphasizes practicality. 

If I decide to create a piece of furniture for my current project, I will likely stay within my preference for modern furniture. This would help me to further develop my collection, while also ensuring that whatever I build is something I want to display in my home. At the moment, I am in need of side tables, and below is a design that I would like to take inspiration from. 

[3] A scandinavian modern side table made by Stockton Heritage.

 

Image Sources:

[1] https://www.ikea.com/es/en/p/mandal-bed-frame-with-headboard-birch-white-s89094948/

[2] https://www.designplusgallery.com/product/ethan-allen-radius-six-drawer-dresser-original-price-2600/

[3] https://www.stocktonheritage.com/shop/minimalist-end-table-mid-century-modern-end-table-scandinavian-side-table-minimalist-nightstand