Design Happens

Today I’m welcoming you inside my house to show you a space that does, indeed, delight me daily — it’s my den. Everyone deserves a home that is filled with items that inspire them and that reflects their personality (and just makes them feel really good). My little Tennessee abode does just that, but no room does it better than the den.

Everything in this room means something to me. In front of the sofa (not pictured) is a china cabinet that holds my grandmother’s china and crystal.

The room is really a bedroom, but since I’m a bachelor and don’t have a ton of house-guests, keeping it a guest room seemed like a waste (the sofa is a pullout — so I am somewhat of a welcoming host). I just love the coziness of the space and the atmosphere at night when all of the lamps are on. The back wall is filled with plates and pictures that I have collected from antique stores along with treasured family photos.

The curio cabinet is the focal point of the room and packed with “tacky” stuff. I tell people when they look inside it, “This is the real Grant!” And, it truly is. It’s full of souvenirs from my travels (yes, I proudly own it, I love cheap tchotchkes — and mine mean something to me!), favorite childhood toys and neat gifts I’ve received over the years. I like to think that having these items inside a curio classes it all up (and contains) what could otherwise be seen as a mess.

I, Grant Dudley, enjoy trinkets — don’t judge me. I think tchotchkes can be fun and tasteful in the correct setting.

Now tell me, what’s your favorite room inside your home — and what makes it so special? Also, if you have a photo (if you don’t, go take one!) — Tweet it to Design Happens at @hgtvdecorating and show me your space!