Design Experts Help Venus And Mars Find Harmony At Home How to Add Fun and Romance to the Home Decorating Experience

Furniture World Magazine

Stylistic differences between the sexes can create challenges in the home, according to a recent survey conducted by the American Furniture Manufacturers Association (AFMA). While Venus and Mars live peacefully in the same house, finding furnishings for their home that they both love is sometimes not of this world. Gender differences - coupled with a galaxy of style choices - can throw the planets out of orbit. Moreover, while 79% of women surveyed cite shopping as a favorite activity, 74% of men surveyed claim they would rather do anything else. Given such polar viewpoints, can Venus and Mars ever find stylistic harmony under the same roof'? According to two renowned design experts, it's not only possible, but also easy if you know how. Finding Common Ground: Designers Meg and Steven Roberts - the married authors of A Home for All Seasons - say it is important to select furnishings for your home that reflect who you are as a couple and make you both feel at home. "Your furniture is part of who you are - it makes your house your home," says Steven Roberts, co-president and chief marketing officer of the The Echo Design Group, Inc., a New York City company that creates home furnishing designs, as well as world-famous designer scarves and neckties. "It's important that you both feel relaxed sitting on your sofa, comfortable eating at your kitchen table and happy entertaining family and friends in the living room." Men and women traditionally-don't look for the same things in furniture. "We find men seek comfort and function when it comes to furniture," says Steven. "Whereas, women make style a higher priority. Today, with such a variety of furniture available in all price ranges, couples can marry comfort, function and style in a home that suits them both." While Venus and Mars may not have the same taste in furniture, there is a consensus on where to start. The AFMA survey reveals the majority of men and women do agree on their decorating priorities, ranking the living room and master bedroom as top interests. "If it appears overwhelming to get started refurnishing your home, focus on one or two rooms you both agree need work," suggests Meg Lesser Roberts, Echo's senior home designer. "It's much easier when couples choose one room to redecorate, or a few pieces to replace, and work from there." Meg and Steven know firsthand the issues couples face when decorating their homes. In addition to their career experience, the two designers have been married to each other for 16 years. "Our tastes and needs have changed over the years, and so has our furniture," says Steven. "We haven't always agreed on how to decorate our home, but we always find a way to work it out. There are always solutions out there." "When it comes to home fashion, the eclectic look is one of the most popular trends," says Meg. "You can blend his and hers styles and create a room that looks great." According to Steven, agreement will most likely result from communication between the couple. "Give Mars a little credit," Steven quips. "Nowadays, men are more in-tune with fashion than ever before. Don't be surprised if we show interest in furnishing our home." Meg agrees. "Furniture manufacturers are offering so many different styles and prices, you will find something that pleases you both. And, you'll be even more satisfied knowing your partner is happy, too," she says. Shopping for Two: As the AFMA survey indicates, the mere thought of shopping tends to strike fear in the hearts of men. But Meg and Steven offer several suggestions to make furniture shopping more enjoyable for both parties. Once Venus and Mars align on home furnishing priorities, Meg recommends a simple activity to help couples when Mars is hesitant to shop. "Men like action plans - so, women should do a little of the legwork in advance. Look to magazines, catalogs, style books and even friends' homes for inspiration. Keep a scrapbook of ideas, designs or fabrics with mutual appeal. When you head out to the furniture store, it will be a much appreciated, more targeted approach." The Roberts also offer advice for couples on deciding what furniture is right for them. "Above all," says Steven, "trust your own sense of style. If you like an item, buy it. Only you and your partner know the best way to express who you are and your sense of design through home furnishings." Finally, Meg and Steven stress that collaboration not only helps couples get the most from selecting and shopping for furniture, but also ensures they arrive at the best results. According to Meg, "When you're both involved in choosing furniture that makes you happy, the result will be totally rewarding and satisfying."