Create | Ali Heath
Ever wonder how some homes feel so authentic, so inspiring, and so good to be in, while others fall flat? When you walk into a home that has an energy that draws you into its world, you begin to feel curious about the people who dwell there, why they chose such artwork, or how they are able to express themselves so personally through the objects that fill their home.
In Create, At Home with Old & New, Ali eloquently explains how to achieve that magic feeling that is unique and personal to each of us in our own homes.
I was drawn to this book because I have been following Ali on Instagram for some time, her work is warm, embracing, and down-to-earth. Her words are equally as lovely. She has a wealth of experience and knowledge in the home design industry and it shines through in the way she simplifies the art of creating a home.
She goes through ways to establish your style, we love the page that breaks down how to get started. This is more of a manifesto for living well. I think about copying it and pinning it up in my studio. It's a reminder of all the different ways to create that magic feeling we all want in our homes.
We also love that she talks about shopping more sustainably. By this, she means looking at what we already have or gently worn items and making them look beautiful by mixing them in with our brand-new items. When we purchase fibers, we should always source natural materials, like wool, hemp, and cotton. It's better for our earth, but also makes us feel better when we interact with them. She says to think Perfectly Imperfect. Ali shows us the value in changing the way we shop, by including treasured antiques and vintage pieces in our modern homes. Those white square boxes that so many are ending up with now, crave the history and story that only an old piece can give.
Here is a little taste of all the wisdom she shares:
Seek inspiration everywhere.
Begin a mood board.
Except that not every house is perfect.
Keep it personal - surround yourself with things that have an emotional attachment for you. These are reminders of the different stages of your life.
Ali says "Books are one of life's great pleasures. Read them, learn from them, dust them, rearrange them. Then close them up and put into practice what you learned in your authentic way. " Wise words that we hope you all head after reading her beautiful book.
And remember, NEVER STOP CREATING - The best interiors always continue to evolve.
