Often times, you will hear me say… I am 10% Designer and 90% Psychologist…
I was recently asked this question at a talk I gave in Charleston about the “Secrets of Southern Design”…
Is it important for both a husband and wife to get what they each want during a room makeover or a whole home re-design?
…and the funny thing was, it was asked by the husband!
My answer: YES, YES, YES! It must be a win/win for both! And, my friends this is not just advice for designing your home, but great advice for marriage in general! It is important to work with a designer that understands and respects this! (or else your designer could be setting up up for years of bitter resentment about who had more say in the creation of your home TOGETHER!).
Yes, women, T.O.G.E.T.H.E.R.!
A few key things I have gleaned in my years of experience of “coaching and counseling” husbands and wives in the design process.
What men want –
1. Comfort
2. Budget
What women want –
EVERYTHING ELSE
That is a little easier to work with usually than what women want – so I like to get the men taken care of first. If he trusts and knows that I am on his side, then 9 times out of 10, he steps out of the way and lets his wife have the rest. I cannot stress enough how important it is to marry both sides!
Advice for women – TRUST ME ON THIS! And, let him have his recliner, ok?
Advice for men – If what it important to you is having a comfy sofa and staying within a budget – then I will make sure you are the official “butt tester” for each one until we have it right AND I will go to any means to keep your costs where they need to be! So, if you don’t feel passionate about it, let it go! And, let your wife and I make it beautiful.
I like to keep things simple when it comes to this and have worked with too many couples to not have a formula that can really work, if everyone is willing to work TOGETHER.
I would LOVE to know how you and your partner work through design decisions in your home, if this advice is any help or if you have anything to add or share! Leave me a comment below!
For help with your home or room design please contact us at Kimberly@
