Perfectly Imperfect: How to Style with Ease

Imperfect details are not about carelessness — they’re about atmosphere. A gently creased tablecloth, casually arranged cushions, and a mix of shapes and textures: it’s these subtle nuances that make a home feel warmer, more human and inviting.

A lightly creased tablecloth isn’t a sign of haste but a deliberate touch — the fine folds left after careful storage add a quiet sense of occasion, as if the cloth has been waiting for its moment.

The same approach applies to cushions and throws: there’s no need to arrange them in perfect pairs or place them symmetrically. Textiles have a way of looking effortlessly right, wherever they fall: even when a cushion ends up draped across a nearby armchair. This relaxed approach brings warmth and personality to a space.

Symmetry can bring order, but it’s the slight deviations that keep a room interesting. An off-centre vase, a pair of objects that don’t quite match, or an uneven arrangement of decorative pieces: these small choices create focal points that allow the eye to wander comfortably. Especially in smaller spaces, where perfect symmetry can feel restrictive, a touch of asymmetry adds ease and flow, ensuring the room feels inviting rather than overly formal.

When setting the table or arranging decor, matching isn’t the goal. Combining different shapes of tableware, varied materials, and mixed finishes brings a lived-in, layered quality.

This approach avoids a too-polished look and instead makes the space feel genuinely personal and welcoming. It’s a reminder that beauty can lie in contrasts and combinations, rather than uniformity.