Before you approach any design project, there’s one thing you need to consider: intention. Just like the verse from Solange’s lyrics, “Do nothing without intention. Do nothing without intention”—every part of your home should be carefully considered. This applies to the color palette, each piece of furniture you invest in, every artwork, right down to the materials and surface textures you choose. If you’re struggling with this process and need help getting clarity, follow Signe Bindslev Henriksen‘s lead. The architect and designer says there are two design questions to ask yourself with every decision: Does this piece move me? Do I absolutely have to live with it?
It’s evident from the thoughtful design and art choices in Henriksen’s Copenhagen apartment that she only chooses pieces that speak to her viscerally. “You should be able to say in a split second whether you like something or not,” she tells Athena for Live Beautiful. This is an interesting sentiment to consider when thinking about the dialogue in your home—choose pieces that have a voice and then imagine them in conversation with each other in the space. Let there be tension, juxtaposition, and contrast, too but overall the pieces should sing in harmony, providing layers of visual interest and intrigue.
In celebration of Live Beautiful’s one year anniversary, this week we continue our unveiling of unpublished pages from the celebrated tome. Read on for a special rapid fire interview and curated collage designed by Henriksen for the book and be inspired by her dramatic tonal contrast and thoughtful restraint.
