Jamey Briggs owner of Briggs and Company understands that the art of easy living is about making your home comfortable for yourself, your family and your friends. “Formality no longer is the norm but that doesn’t mean you can’t have style though,” he said. Briggs has his finger on the pulse of today’s trends and sees that the art of home decor will be moving steadily towards easy living.

He gives some suggestions on creating a style for living and entertaining. First, “fresh,” “clean” and “simple” are words to use when describing designs for “easy living” that many clients seek today. A more neutral color palette that uses pops of color in select areas along with pared-down furniture and accessories express a fresher, more up-to-date look.

The way people achieve the fresh look is largely by lightening, brightening and editing. Briggs suggests making a home fresh instead of fussy can often be achieved in as little as a day. The decorator suggests, “Start by taking a hard look at what you have in a room. Look at places like mantels, bookcases and tops of cabinetry. Rather than a bunch of dusty artificial greenery, try one large item – maybe a charger plate on a stand or a large vase or urn. In bookcases and on tables, arrange family photos by the style of frame. Clear clutter off the mantel, put a pair of something larger on it like candlesticks or clear glass vases filled with green apples.”

Window treatments are another place to freshen up. Instead of heavy, dated swags, poufs and tie-backs with ornate hardware, opt for simple panels of fabric on smaller rods with simple finials. “I think the vibe a home gives off definitely has a psychological effect on people – whether they’re consciously aware of it or not. A home that’s too cluttered and dated is as bad as a home that’s stark and cold,” Briggs said. “The magic is to strike the right balance. I feel a home should be edited and organized visually but also should be warm and approachable.”

To achieve the easy-living look, Briggs suggested ample editing, coupled with mixing and layering. Group personal treasures on a table by starting with a tray, then stacking books, with a special item on top. Use plenty of pillows and throws on upholstered furniture to soften the look, adding texture and/or color. Mix older furniture and accessories with new items to keep it fresh.

Careful editing of clutter, clean lined furnishings, and a light touch can freshen your home and your outlook.