This is an important question; the answer largely depends on your goals. If you're decorating for yourself, feel free to embrace your taste entirely—choose colors, patterns, and unique pieces that make you feel at home. However, if you're decorating with potential buyers in mind, focus on creating a neutral and broadly appealing environment. Aim for clean lines, neutral palettes, and well-staged spaces that help buyers envision themselves living there. The goal is to create a warm, inviting blank canvas rather than showcase your personality.

When it comes time to decorate your vacation home, you may feel a little uneasy. The style you are comfortable with in your primary residence will only sometimes function in your second home. Having a vacation home is the ultimate dream for some people, a chance to vacation in a favorite location that is also your home. Also, it’s an excellent opportunity to host family and friends. And many people will rent out the house when not in use. Airbnb and VRBO rentals have become very popular.

As an interior designer, people ask me one of two questions. First, where do you find all these great pieces for your client's homes? And second, is mixing metals okay? To answer the first question, I shop a lot and have a terrific memory. For the second question, mixing metals can be inspiring and exciting for your Decor.