What is Lived-In Style? Perhaps better defined as a way of living rather than a specific look, for some it may bring to mind the comfy reading chair you cozy up in next to the window with a stack of books waiting nearby. It might get you thinking about those soft, faded jeans you pull on every weekend, or the collection of found treasures displayed on your mantel. It’s laid-back, comfortable, no-fuss and uniquely you.
Moreover, lived-in style isn’t about perfection, but rather about finding joy in the imperfections that give our lives, and our homes, their unmistakable character. It’s mismatched and worn, used and repurposed, kind and respectful to the earth and its resources. And it’s what all the homes in Lived-In Style have in common, whether in the city or country; modern, traditional or something in between; budget-conscious or not. Rather than purchasing an entire living room from a catalogue or copying a neighbour’s perfectly appointed parlour, each homeowner has gathered pieces they love from here, there and everywhere and, over time, woven them together to create energizing spaces that are truly their own.
Kaitlyn Coffee narrowly missed out on scoring twin Le Corbusier chairs at a thrift shop, but managed to snag at least one of them for her living room. Antique American and English desks are a foil to the more modern sideboard and coffee table, all of which display books as well as favourite finds from over the years. “Note the Barbra Streisand book,” Kaitlyn hints. “There are lots of hidden ‘Barbra’ items around the house. She’s my idol!”
In the kitchen, Angie Cavalier was happy to forfeit storage in exchange for sweeping backyard and garden views. The island is actually a farm table that was found outside of a barn in England.
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