You Need This
You Need This… I Promise | March 2022
My favorite clothes store is Ann Mashburn in Atlanta. It is a perfectly curated collection of the things I want to wear all of the time. Ann Mashburn is just cool and her store is just cool too. She puts out a monthly-ish newsletter called "You Need This...I Promise" and it's about the pieces that every woman needs in her wardrobe. So, in the spirit of Ann M, I thought I would share the things I think every house needs, I promise. Whether you are just starting out or in your forever home, these are the pieces that will stand the test of time and continue to reinvent themselves as you move through the seasons of life.
Sofa This one is obvious but you should invest in a really good sofa - one that is well made, comfortable and has good lines. Ann M. did this years ago with a pair of George Smith sofas from England. These classic sofas have transitioned to various homes as Ann and her family made several moves over the years. Unless you are living in tight quarters in New York, an 84" sofa (that's 7 feet) can go almost anywhere. Wherever it lands, it can be refreshed with updated throw pillows or new upholstery over and over. Talk about nine lives!
Pair of Lamps Think about it…you can use a pair of lamps in almost every room in your house. From bedside tables to the dining room buffet to end tables in your living room, they will find a spot to land. These lamps are the perfect balance between traditional and modern. Change up the shades and they could be more contemporary. They could find a place in any room in your house for years to come.
Side Chair The side chair is like a good friend who will always be in the right place at the right time. In your office, an extra seat in the living room, or in a bedroom, a side chair will always fit in and can be easily refreshed with new fabric or a new accent pillow.
Chandelier Lighting is the jewelry of the home that gives it extra sparkle and shine! Investing in a special piece like a chandelier will never disappoint. This chandelier was custom made by Julie Neill in New Orleans and is even more beautiful in person. Just remember if you ever sell your house, you must take your chandelier down before the house goes on the market or it will be considered a permanent fixture of the house!
Art When it comes to art, I have one simple rule: always buy what you love! A great piece of art should make your heart race a little. And if you love it, you will always find a place for it no matter where you live. I like to move my art around the house when I am ready for a change. It is amazing how it takes on new life based on its surroundings. Give it a try, you’ll see!
I hope you enjoyed the first of many newsletters this year. If there is a topic you want me to cover, please email me your ideas at ann@annprinceinteriors.com. If you are interested in my help creating a classic space where your family can make lots of memories, please reach out. Happy decorating!
Until next time,
- Ann
