I recently returned home from a trip to Colonial Williamsburg. My husband and I have visited more than two dozen times in the last seventeen years. One of the reasons we visit so often is this destination’s ability to provide us with a perfect dose of rest and relaxation.

My dh loves the gardens and I love the decorating; so, we spend hours taking long leisurely walks soaking in the atmosphere. We weren’t expecting much from the gardens because of the time of year. They were wonderful! I will share more about them another time. Since the decor is my favorite part of the visit, I would like to begin with that today.

We deliberately stayed in three different restored houses so that I could take lots of photos and get my fill of leather, wood, and beautiful fabrics. The photo at the top is of a common room in Market Square Tavern, we enjoyed a night in the room across the hall. This leather chair has been in that location for years. It molds to the body perfectly providing a spot for relaxation and conversation. Oh the stories it could tell if it could talk!

The other photos were taken in the bedroom of a very small house called The Quarters. I was inspired by the canopy bed and rich wood furniture. I immediately came home and ordered a new dust ruffle and new curtains in a beautiful toile fabric. I guess I want that soothing feeling right here at home!

  I enjoy the simplicity of Early American design. There is no place for things that are not functional; however, the use of beautiful woods, fabrics, and leather provide a warmth rather than a sterile environment. You can probably tell I came home determined to make some changes around our house. Joan will be proud, I hope! I am getting rid of the clutter and going for function and beauty. I am quite certain that like any other personal change I make this too will be work in progress, but I am excited about the possibilities.

I would love to hear about your decorating style. Remember when we all took the Stylescope quiz at HomeGoods.com? How have you implemented its suggestions into your decor? Have you ever come home from vacation imspired to redecorate? What did you do? I can’t wait to hear, you all give me tons of inspiration!