The Joy of a Layered Home

And How to Create a Unique, Joyful Space

Maximalism is officially back in style after over a decade of minimalism leading the design world, and I couldn’t be happier- it makes my home look less nuts. No shade on Marie Kondo- I think her advice is often misconstrued; a home full of objects that spark joy is often maximalist. Meaningful objects that invoke fond memories or express our taste and ideals work together to curate a space that both lifts and comforts your spirit.

A joyful, and full, home is created in artful layers- not through buying for the sakeof accumulating “stuff.” In my own home, the walls are dotted with old drawings framed into art, paintings bought on trips, and quirky finds from my mother-in-law’s collection. An uncle’s eccentric homemade lamp graces a cabinet; my husband’s grandfather’s circa-1960’s ashtray awaits a time when it can safely share a space with our children.

Most of us (myself included) aren’t able to fill an entire home with heirlooms or souvenirs from global adventures- and that’s a good thing: allow your space to reflect your evolution over time & plurality in interests.

Embrace the curvy details on a modern furniture find, or the vintage woodworking on a thrifted piece. Layer in saturated colors and bold patterns, a quirky cat blanket, and anything else that brightens your mood.

Artisanal and independently designed accessories create the opportunity to design your space as a reflection of your personality and values. In my own office, an old caricature of my grandfather lives on in a floating frame as sentimental art, flanked by a curvy, feminine vase from Ila Ceramica, a woman-led Mexican ceramics studio. Vibrant notebooks or a scented candle usually finish off the vignette.

In a recent interview with D Home, interior designer Erin Sander spoke of the value of “pieces that are made by hand with a history and a person standing behind them,” praising “artisans’ abilities to make environments ‘deliberately unique” and giving them “warmth in an understated way.”’

If this style appeals to you, I hope you’ll love what we’ve curated at Anacua House. With an emphasis on quality, whether simple or whimsical in design, our products are sourced from brands passionate about their designs at every step- from concept to production, to your home. They’re independent designers, family-run workshops, and community-conscious artisans obsessed with creating beauty. From accents like coasters, candles, and vases, to textiles and glassware, you’ll find design-forward affordable luxury décor that will grace your home for decades.

Happy Shopping!