Ah, the year is 2020. The start of a decade that has given an entirely new meaning to “home is where the heart is.”

If my notes are correct (*glances at checklist*), home is now a place where daytime sweatpants and nighttime sweatpants are a thing (I bid thee good day, jeans). It’s where tie-dye and TikTok are insatiable trends that coexist in viral harmony. And I would be remiss to forget that home is also a place where the limit does not exist for video conferencing (we know and we feel for you).

As the option to go virtual for meetings, happy hours, and hallmark life events has become an unspoken mandate, our homes have become the MTV Cribs feature we never saw coming. Instead of living in dread or opting for that trending virtual background, let’s take a walk and talk through a few home styling strategies. These ideas will elevate your space to a level of joy and vibrancy that will have you ready to (willingly) showcase how you’re living (… and all of us ready to CTRL-Save your room with a view).

It’s time to pour that LaCroix into your finest wine glass because this tour starts now!

Style Strategy #1: Embrace the Luxury You’re Working With

While Cribs is known for showcasing envy-inducing views into lavish celebrity homes, the modern definitions for high-end real estate are a-changing and I’m not mad about it. For example, whenever a “penthouse” was previously mentioned, my baller-on-a-Home-Goods-budget personality automatically thought, Unattainable. Well, not anymore! Thanks to a marketing refresh, a penthouse can be defined as any unit with a different layout from others in the building, ample outdoor space, or premium views; and it’s not necessarily on the top floor!

So with that in mind, I’m here to tell you we each have the space to cultivate an elevated and vibrant home experience, regardless of the size, location, or circumstance. Is your pinky up? Because it should be.

Style Strategy #2: See Yourself in Your Space

Minimalist? Maximalist? I-like-what-I-like-ist? You have the permission to create a view that resonates with every fiber of your being. I promise, as you start to see yourself in your space it begins to transform into a happy place. In my home, this vision translates into an amuse-bouche of color, pattern, and plants (yes, all of them are my children) reminiscent of past tropical getaways.

Minimalist? Maximalist? I-like-what-I-like-ist? You have the permission to create a view that resonates with every fiber of your being.

Surprisingly, showcasing my authentic self through my home decor came with a fair share of trial and error. I have always admired those social media-worthy dwellings with modern, monochromatic, and minimalist design styling. With my Pinterest board locked and loaded, I was ready to copy and paste this trend into my condo.

In a full-fledged identity crisis, I went as far as purchasing a neutral area rug and classic wood bed frame! Lo and behold, though I remember thinking they were beautiful pieces upon arrival, I felt like something was… missing. Ironically, the bed frame was delivered damaged, so I took that as my sign from Jesus to abandon the inauthentic and reunite with what truly represents me.

What does this mean for you? Whether it is through incorporating your favorite color, an heirloom piece, or a vintage find that makes your heart sing, integrate that into your space without apology. Did I mention I’m already loving what you’ve done with the place? Authenticity looks so amazing on you.

Style Strategy #3: Start With a Focal Point

Rome wasn’t built in a day (… or during a global pandemic), so give yourself grace on this design journey and know that it is OK to start slow. In fact, I believe taking your time allows the breathing space to best curate your personal style while lessening the risk of design regret (… like the time I painted my entryway Halloween orange).

As I decorated my space, while adding vibrant colors topped my list, I was cognizant that there must be some method to the madness. In taking it slow, I started by shopping for a “signature” piece of furniture and an area rug that would serve as a constant source of inspiration. I love using area rugs as a fun way to ground my personal style and create a cohesive flow!

However, if area rugs are not your cup of tea, a piece of artwork, accessories, or paint/wallpaper can also accomplish the same result. Once you have decided on your focal piece, pulling colors or unique elements from that piece of decor will have you volunteering to share your joyous curation with friends and family!

Style Strategy #4: Bring the Outdoors In

With the great indoors being our new travel destination of choice, I am in full support of adding some green. In my humble proud plant parent opinion, plants are such a wonderful way to add texture, vibrancy, and interest. And please note, you do not need eighty of them to accomplish this! Placing even one plant in a corner that could use some love, on a kitchen counter, or as a warm entryway welcome is my favorite way to breathe new life into any space. As an added benefit, plant pots are another simple way to add personal flair! Joy truly can be found in the little details.

Well, I do believe we have seen enough for one day! It’s about time for me to top off my glass and send you on your way—you have a penthouse to decorate.

Shayla Owodunni

Shayla is a Minnesota native who doesn’t ski, loves a good bonfire, and will always say yes to coffee…and plant shopping. She runs a management consulting firm by day and walks an interior plant styling passion project by night(s)/weekends. You can follow Shayla (and her 80-some plant babies) on Instagram.