It’s the weekend; let’s lighten up. Here are two of my very most favorite designers, Alexandra Tolstoy and Butter Wakefield. They each have a unique style and a lot in common to my eye. They have an unapologetic love of color. And they insist on comfort. Those are my two priorities…oh, and how happy their homes are. Happy, exuberant, whimsical and personal style. Dare we say dopamine style? Our homes should delight us first thing in the morning, last thing at night, and especially after an outing, long or short. If you don’t walk in your front door and feel your shoulders lower, let’s talk.

Now both of these women are decidedly maximalists. As am I. Full disclosure, I cannot understand anything else. Everyone I share my enthusiasm with often responds with something similar to “well there’s…just…so…much…stuff.” Well, yeah. Hence the genre called maximalism. I call it a good start. But truthfully, it absolutely tickles my fancy.

I dream in maximalism. I actually dream of walking around inside strangers houses and taking note of the paintings on the wall and the patterns on the fabrics. It’s my idea of a good time. But don’t be fooled – it’s not an easy style to pull off. I work at it and never seem to get the relaxed result these two women have achieved. I have a theory about that, but I’ll save that for another day. I will tell you this: I have watched countless hours of maximalist house tours and not a one of those homeowners is glum. They seem genuinely chuffed.

Let’s recreate Butter Wakefield’s Conservatory on a budget! Loveseat Slipcover: https://amzn.to/4bBhdra; Colorful Floral Paintings: https://amzn.to/4cNLWmF; https://amzn.to/3RYHBo2; Farmhouse Style Plate Rack: https://amzn.to/4cuXMSg; Floral Ceramic Plates: https://amzn.to/3xY3qNF, https://amzn.to/3xG1lpN; Peel & Stick Floor Tiles: https://amzn.to/3WfnWmw, Striped Throw Pillows: https://amzn.to/45Uku3P, Wall Sconce, Set of 2: https://amzn.to/4eU3Pl2, Galvanized Tray Table: https://amzn.to/4eOQU3X…I’m afraid you’re on your own for the dog.