Sound the klaxon and call my mother because my boyfriend asked me to move in with him. Does that mean I’m going to? Well, no - not yet at least. Despite being together for more than eight years, and much to the confusion of friends and family, one ostensibly trivial yet profoundly consequential dilemma has kept me from shacking up with a man - the issue of interior decor.
My flat is a meticulously curated mid-century haven, crafted with intent to reflect my personality, taste and inexplicable penchant for silly little trinkets. His is a lad pad - framed Spurs shirt enshrined above the bed, golf clubs huddled in the corner, and a gargantuan sofa in desperate need of upholstery. “Where would I display my stack of Frank Lloyd Wright books with no teak coffee table!” I lament. “Where would the cowhide rug go! The 1970s mirror I lugged all the way home from the Hackney flea! My collection of gluggle jugs!”
Therein lies the conundrum - that of aesthetically sandwiching our identities together to create a love nest.
“I think when it comes to finding inspiration for your home as a couple, looking a little more broadly is key,” says content creator Jess Stovold, whose home I regularly find myself cooing over. “We take a lot of inspiration from art, movies, holiday destinations we love, as opposed to just looking at other homes or interior trends, and I feel like this has been key to curate a space that’s really representative of our taste, together and individually.”
“If you and your partner have different style or aesthetic tastes, this could be a way to find some middle ground through shared interests, and then taking the design elements from there. We’re quite lucky in the sense that our styles and vibe is pretty much the same, but you can’t go wrong with starting sentimental and working your way out from there. Yes, you might have different tastes in colour palettes, but I can guarantee you both have the same place that’s special to you that you can look to for inspiration.”
How does this materialise? “Shells from holidays, notes and postcards framed on the walls, trinkets in dishes and picture books on coffee tables,” Jess advises. “A home is such a privilege and getting to fill it with memories is the best way to make it feel cosy. We have a gallery wall going up our stairs that we created by sourcing lots of different size and texture frames from charity shops, and framing things that were sentimental to us. We have a receipt from our first date, some of the menus from our wedding, films and shows my partner has worked on, and magazines from places we’ve been.”
The creative mentions that texture is also key, with soft furnishings from rugs to throws injecting a space with a cosy feel. The same goes for lighting, opting for warming lamps and saying no to overhead lights (something that has been drilled into me since childhood thanks to my mum’s favourite line “It’s like Heathrow airport in here!” loudly exclaimed before furiously swiping at the light switch.) Also, keeping a Pinterest board for continuity is key.
In an attempt to get over myself and fall head first for the love nest, I’ve rounded up my favourite pieces to bring an intimate, sentimental and playful vibe to the home.
How to create the perfect love nest:
Wedding Initials Trinket Tray
The Go-To
As Jess says: "I think having things around is so underrated. Not clutter, but sentimental elements." This sweet trinket tray is perfect for couples wanting to add a personal touch to their space. A little bit of you, a little bit of them.
Chain of Fools Eco Velvet Drum Table Lamp
Poodle & Blonde
Crafted from the brand's Seventies-style 'Chain of Fools' velvet in a glorious jade hue, this Poodle & Blonde lamp is primed to drench your home in warming light. A geometric design makes for a unique accent and we love that the print reflects the relationship status of those who own it - locked in.
Pair of Michelangelo & Bianca Bath Soap Dishes
Villa Bologna Pottery
This adorable duo is the sweetest addition to your shared bathroom. Originally designed in the 1970s and handmade in Malta from earthenware clay, these playful soap dishes are set to delight.
Hug Chair
Jorge Suárez-Kilzi
Jorge Suárez-Kilzi’s Hug Chair features a striking, curved design that becomes the centrepiece of any home. Expertly crafted from stainless steel in Madrid, it’s an enduring investment for couples looking to make a shared statement with their space.
Tubereuse Rouge large scented candle 300g
Diptyque
Diptyque's ruby red candle isn't only attractive, but boasts dulcet tuberose tones hailing from the wide fields of Southern India, where these fragrant white flowers are grown. Simply light up and kick back together.
Lambswool Blanket
Tekla
Sheathe yourself in petal-soft wool with this luxurious throw by cult brand Tekla. Featuring subtle brand detailing and a timeless yet trendy striped design, this warming blanket makes for the ultimate couch comrade. Hunkering down has never looked so chic.
Striped Frame
Damson Madder
Immortalise those treasured shared moments with a funky photo frame by Damson Madder. Ideal for those seeking fun, gender neutral homeware essentials.
Set of 2 Salad Servers in Silver
Completedworks
The beautiful Completedworks salad serves are set to spark conversation come your next dinner party. Whimsical and sustainable, the quirky gems are crafted from recycled stainless silver, set to elevate the tablescape with a touch of metallic charm.
Personalised Brown and White Small Pet Bowl
Henry Holland Studio
If you share your love nest with a furry friend, look no further than Henry Holland. The brand is brimming with fun, made-to-order pieces with personalised finishes - because puppy love counts too.
Corazon Nordic Placemat
Casalatina
If you want your home to say 'love' without being too on the nose, then subtle heart motifs are the way forward. These charming place mats courtesy of Casalatina offer a dose of natural texture, topped with deep Marsala-dyed palm embroidery and handwoven in the artisanal town of Sandoná, Colombia.
Stoneware Set of 2 Heart Mugs with Saucers
Le Creuset
Available in petal petal or deep crimson, Le Creuset's stoneware set of heart-shaped mugs is a failsafe buy that celebrates love in the home.
Love Letter Ceramic Matchbox
Maison Flaneur
Introducing the newest addition to your mantelpiece, this charming ceramic matchbox that's to ignite hearts. Not a want but a need.
Morning Glory on the Vine: Early Songs and Drawings
Joni Mitchell
Music is to be shared, and what better way to infuse your nest with an intimate vibe than with a helping hand from your favourite artist? Coffee table books like the above offer guests a glimpse into your interests and Spotify playlists. Ensure yours take pride of place.
Espresso Coffee Machine
Smeg
There's nothing more welcoming than walking through the door to the rich smell of coffee brewing. Start your mornings together with a quick chat over coffee before heading out, thanks to this 50s-inspired Smeg Espresso machine.
How we chose:
- Style: Each piece is thoughtfully chosen to celebrate a couple’s shared home aesthetic, reflecting the personalities of both partners.
- Price: This round-up features a range of prices for all budgets, from pocket-friendly photo frames to luxury homeware investment pieces.
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. Best Quality Designer Handbag may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.
