How to Blend His and Her Styles

Aren't we ladies lucky when our mates embrace our decorating styles?

Well, maybe embrace is too strong a word.

But it is a blessing when he says, "Do whatever you want sweetheart" without rolling his eyes.

My ironstone, his dominoes.

Actually, I think most men could probably care less what color throw pillows we choose. 

If it were up to Ron, he would banish all throw pillows from our home. 

Still, I bounce ideas off of him before deciding on big purchases. 

I think he trusts my style although he usually points out we don't have room for the item. 

So how can we incorporate some items into our style that makes him happy too?

Let's take a look at how some of his favorite collectibles

could be blended with mine throughout the house. 

Here his little silver dog, Mack, (a hood ornament from a Mack Truck)

 looks sculptural next to my pretty old hardback book. 

Fortunately, Ron and I have similar interests and enjoy antiquing and thrifting together. 

So he is on board when it comes to vintage decor. 

A room looks more interesting and thoughtful if all the furniture 

didn't come from the same store on the same day in the same fabric.

Vintage wooden furniture makes a room feel warm and cozy

whether it's a masculine or feminine room. 

Most men like a clean, uncluttered look with just a few well-chosen accessories. 

Everything in this photo is mine although it could easily be his. 

Something from his occupation can add interest to a room and make it more personal. 

Before retiring, Ron was a photojournalist. 

He has a nice collection of old cameras that add interest to a vignette.

His hobby can also provide unique ideas on decorating a room. 

He's an afficianado of model trains and creator of historically accurate layouts. 

This layout even includes an antique store! 

(and yes, it's in the basement!). 

His collection of old railroad lanterns fits right into our farmhouse-style sunroom.

These brightly-colored metal tool boxes look industrial yet farmhouse.

I want one!

And family heirlooms like this syrup pitcher filled with marbles 

makes a simple masculine statement.

Antler sheds always look cool in any style room. 

Probably the most important item for a man is a big comfy chair. 

This chair and ottoman I found at an estate sale is comfortable and masculine and I like it too.

Men tend to prefer big heavy furniture so a mix of light and airy 

with more masculine furniture creates a good balance. 

If Ron had his way, he'd probably choose an oversized chair in camo from Cabelas!

Hold the throw pillow. 

Another decor item of his that blends nicely with my French Country feel is this
old newspaper announcing American aviator Charles Lindbergh's landing in Paris. 

It adds an authentic touch of history to our guest room.

One thing that he would probably want that I can't budge on, let alone have space for, 

is one of those gigantic manly TVs.

I'm thankful that those enormous 1970s stereo speakers have been downsized 

and flatscreens can be hung on a wall. 

Still, I'm looking forward to the day when we can watch TV
by pressing a button to project a holographic image on the wall.
I think he'd like that too.

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