The nightstand

I get a lot of questions about what it means to be a holistic interior designer. Holistic interior design encourages both myself and my clients to take a deeper look at how we want to feel in our homes. This is such an exciting method of interior design, because it focuses deeply on an individual’s daily life. For example, a client may want to feel grounded and peaceful in their home office. This might mean that they are attracted to warmer colors — or perhaps a palette of blues makes them feel calm.

A simple starting point for curating your sacred space is your nightstand. It’s there when you wake up, and it’s there when you go to sleep. A nightstand can be both functional and beautiful. My daughter and I were having lunch at The Monroe in downtown Orlando, and we both commented on how refreshing it was to be in a NEW space. That same uplifting feeling is precisely what I want to help you capture through this small DIY redesign project.

Let’s start with the WHAT.

Here is my list of just a few potential items to have on, or in your nightstand. I hope they get you thinking about what may spark a bit of joy for you!

1. Picture frame — what or who makes you smile?

2. Candle — having the option of non-scented (for visual ambience) or scented, depending on your mood.

3. Rechargeable lighter or beautiful matches — for your candles.

4. Plant — a plant needs care, just like we do. Caring for your plant is a reminder to care for yourself.

5. Linen spray — misting your pillows with scents that help you unwind can be made into a soothing bedtime ritual.

6. Bedside water carafe — I have to go to sleep knowing I have my glass of water beside me. I’m a big water drinker! Having a carafe ensures that I don’t need to get up for a refill.

7. A Lamp!

8. Gratitude journal — I try to spend each morning saying my gratitude prayers. Purchase a beautiful journal and pen to keep on, or in your nightstand. Making a list of all that you were grateful for at the end of each day will change your life.

Design

When it comes to where you will put these items — have FUN!  Think about creating different heights or “Earth — Sky — Heaven”. New York City’s skyline is filled with buildings of varying heights, and it looks great that way! Perhaps your lamp is your tallest accessory. In front of your lamp, you have paired together your favorite candle and a small beautiful tray of your go-to jewelry. This is an example of playing with height and grouping items. Creating a few groupings of items, especially based on their heights, can be a beautiful way of organizing accessories on top of your dresser.

You Deserve It

The best thing is, it doesn’t have to stop at your nightstand. Imagine your whole home feeling how you want it to feel. Everyone deserves to feel safe and happy in their homes. Contact me on my website, or at pauline.weingarten@gmail.com. I would love to help you cultivate sacred spaces in every room of your home!