I saw this collection of photos over at Southern Living (and the bedroom from Southern Accents) was curiously drawn to the simplicity of the design and the color scheme. I say “curiously” because I have noticed my design taste has evolved over the past few years.

In the past I was really drawn to the “evolved over time look”  — more patterns, colors, accessories and mixtures of styles. Things that “go” but don’t necessarily “match.” In fact, I still am drawn to that look. But lately I have also been intrigued with the peace and calm a design like this offers.

I think choosing a simple color scheme, less accessories and a lot of solid fabrics and walls like in these photos does simplify the design choices and the process.  If you are starting from scratch it is fairly easy to duplicate a look like this.

Successfully pulling off the “evolved over time look” with a wide variety of patterns and colors can be a real challenge.

However, reality is that most of us have all sorts of random pieces and upholstery we have to pull together or want to use, and it is not always financially feasible to recover or redo everything just to get this “less is more” look. Especially on a budget! It can be done but it would require some effort, patience and careful editing. And probably some sewing skills and a big can of spray paint.

So, let’s have a little fun weighing in on the “evolved over time look” versus this streamlined “less is more” look. They can both be lovely, but which do you lean towards right now and why? Which one is easier for you to pull off?

photo inspiration: Southern Living Laurey W. Glenn
bedroom from Southern Accents: Antoine Bootz