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The Creative Haven of Helma Bongenaar
Helma Bongenaar is a name that resonates in the design community, especially among those who appreciate the beauty of vintage aesthetics. Known for her eclectic style, Helma combines her passions as a photographer and a stylist, deftly weaving her influence as an antique collector and cookbook author into her creative pursuits. Her vintage-filled home in Amsterdam is a testament to her multifaceted talents, embodying what she calls "clustercore" — a style that embraces the charm of collected treasures and thrifty finds.
A New Chapter in France
Recently, Helma and her husband took on an exciting new project — a quaint cottage in the French countryside. Describing the renovation as a lengthy process, she anticipates a transformation distinct from her beloved Amsterdam home, infused with a French flair and her characteristic vintage touch. "There’s so much work to do, but I know exactly how I want it to look," she shares, providing a glimpse into her creative vision.
Design Inspirations and Practical Tools
When asked about the book that inspires her design decisions, Helma mentions "Inside Houses" by Martin Rosswog. This beautiful tome highlights untouched interiors of old houses, reflecting her preference for authenticity over immaculately designed spaces. It’s about embracing the past while creating a functional and comfortable living environment.
Her approach to home cooking echoes her design philosophy; Helma’s favorite kitchen utensil is simple yet effective — the tried-and-true wooden spoon. It’s a reminder that the best tools are often the most straightforward. In her own kitchen, one can find cabinet fronts sourced from building wreckages or dumpsters, showcasing her commitment to reusing materials creatively.
Lessons in Sustainability
Helma’s design philosophy underscores an important trend in sustainable living — reuse and repurpose. "My unpopular design opinion is… reuse everything! Just use paint to refresh it and make it different," she insists, advocating for minimal waste and maximizing function and style with a dash of creativity.
Creating an Inviting Ambient
When it comes to setting a comfortable atmosphere at home, Helma finds solace in the city’s natural sounds or the music of Charles Aznavour wafting from her old vinyl records. She believes that a home should reflect both personal tastes in aesthetics and the broader integrated environment, creating warmth through personalized touches.
The Value of Vintage Aesthetics
As home owners and design enthusiasts look towards future trends, Helma’s insights emphasize a thoughtful merging of the old with the new. The fabric of a home can be enriched by the stories behind secondhand pieces, adding depth and character that mass-produced items often lack. For those contemplating their renovations or home enhancements, Helma’s process offers a wealth of inspiration.
Final Thoughts
If you’re feeling inspired by Helma’s innovative approach to home design, consider how you can incorporate vintage elements into your own space. Whether through a careful collection of antique finds or creative upcycling of materials you already possess, each choice can bring you one step closer to a living space that tells your unique story. Embrace thrifty decor and make sustainable choices that honor both your style and the planet.
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