Décor exists and matters for a multitude of reasons, from purely aesthetic to sending a message. For me, it exists as a way for me to have a part of my life that is 100% me and as a sign of control. For 18 out of my 20 years of living, I have always shared a room. This was necessary, being a child in a family of 6 kids. Throughout these years, the decorations were always a joint decision, with contributors from my sisters, my mom, and myself. There were, of course, aspects that were purely “me” but it was never 100% mine.

After moving away for college, I finally had the chance to decorate my own room! Despite it being a dorm room, I still had a chance to fully express myself and my style. From picking my own comforter to my own wall decorations, and even my own towel color, my true colors began to be sprawled out in my 130 square foot room.

From there, my creative juices kept flowing! Moving on to sophomore year, I moved into my first apartment, and had a huge room to fill! I couldn’t contain my excitement for being able to decorate! Picking the rugs, pillows, wall decorations, and more, I drove my parents, roommates, and my bank account wild. Despite them all calling me crazy for wanting to completely rearrange and redecorate my room every month, I was happy. Every time I stepped into my room, it was my own sanctuary—a place where I could go to unwind after a long day of classes and work. Being surrounded by my colorful, DIY wall hanging, area rug, the personalized photos of my friends, and my favorite candle (that I quite literally cried over in the middle of T.J. Maxx), I was truly content.

Decorating and designing is something that I find exciting and interesting. It has even inspired me to pursue a career as a visual designer/planner after I graduate! So, why does décor matter? It matters because it gives people a chance to express themselves and even find their future calling!