When it comes to interior design, the word “clutter” has often been used as a dirty word. Slightly better than “clutter” and often bordering on “maximalism,” clutter tends to be in direct opposition to the picture-perfect homes we’re used to seeing.
However, recently it has become a bit of a buzzword. First came Cluttercore, then came the organizational trend that really shook professional organizers and minimalists. But when I noticed “Intentional Clutter” trending on TikTok last month, I knew this was a trend I could really get behind.
First introduced by creator Ethan Gaskill in a video for the popular retailer Lulu & Georgia, the intentionally messy aesthetic appeals to people who live within their walls and aren’t afraid to show off their individuality. , and celebrates homes that reflect those who support just a little clutter. .
What is the tendency to intentionally clutter?
(Image credit: STUDIO KEETA / Photography Ye Rin Mok)
So what actually is international clutter? Simply put, it’s a term coined on TikTok to describe a purposefully organized and somewhat curated collection of knick-knacks, personal items, and random objects (aka clutter). Used to represent a space that has a pocket.
The result is a home that is somewhere between maximalist and minimalist design, and full of character.
“My favorite interior design trend right now is intentional clutter,” Ethan explained during a conversation with Lulu and Georgia. “I don’t know if it’s really classified as a trend, but I think people are embracing the idea that homes are meant to be lived in, and that clutter is a natural part of it. I like it very much.”
“I’m also a person who loves all my trinkets and little things,” he continues. “It’s very nostalgic. I love houses where you walk in and there are little Easter eggs all over the place that tell a story about the type of person who lives in the house. I love how it’s so laid-back, easy and casual. It’s a great trend to incorporate.”
(Image courtesy of deVOL Kitchens)
Similar to styling vignettes, intentional clutter allows you to showcase your favorite things around your home, reflecting yourself and the items that bring you real joy. .
“Intentional clutter can be difficult to master, but when done right, it can elevate your home and give it a lived-in, authentic feel,” says Kylie Blalock, co-founder of House of Hive. ” he explains. “It gives the impression that the home is functional rather than sterile, and that every item has a purpose, even if it’s not perfectly tidy.”
Here, interior designers share their thoughts on how to make an intentionally cluttered home look effortless.
(Image credit: Sarah Barholomew Design/Photo by John Merkl)
“To achieve this look, the key is to live in your home and allow it to evolve,” Kylie continued, explaining how this differs from trends and over time. He describes it as an aesthetic that accumulates and makes you and your home better. Families grow in homes.
“Plus, invest in items you actually want in your space, like a beautiful coffee table book, a carefully selected collection of vintage china, a stylish throw blanket draped haphazardly on your couch, or a charming “Even consider investing in a clean vacuum cleaner and kitchen pots and pans,” she suggests.
“When chosen thoughtfully, these items can add charm and character to a room, making it feel complete rather than cluttered.”
Eat, drink, and take a nap: go home
A popular coffee table book, Eat Drink Nap by Soho Home is a true collector’s item. This neutral book that shows you how to perfect the art of entertaining is a great base for additional styles.
Loewe Perfume Bunny Scented Candle
We love Loewe candles at H&G, but this scented bunny-shaped candle is a game-changer. Created to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit, this scent is a medium-strength scent with top notes of white chocolate and vanilla.
mango wood carving pedestal
Available in three sizes, these wooden pedestals are the perfect addition to your kitchen countertop. Style it around your favorite salt cellar, pots and pans, or use it to take your charcuterie board up a notch.
(Image credit: STUDIO KEETA / Photo Austin Reis)
STUDIO KEETA founder Christina Hersonsky is a big fan of this idea. “We call it clutter with an organized style,” she explained.
“Gone are the days of perfect minimalism, where the house looked unoccupied,” says Christina. “Homeowners crave organization, yes. But more importantly, homeowners want to reflect who they are and organize their belongings (books, art, sculpture, It’s about a yearning to live in a space that is expressed through a collection of small objects.”
“Intentional clutter is the systematic accumulation of personal possessions that a homeowner has acquired over the years, and is a result of who the person is and what their taste level is. It is a direct reflection of who you are and how you live your life.”
(Image credit: Cathy Nordstrom/Anne Nyblaeus)
Designer Bethany Adams agrees: “Stacking a few books and extinguishing a candle or two can give your home a cozy, lived-in feel that over-decluttering can’t provide.” I will.
Look at free tabletop space, such as credenzas, shelves, entry tables, and kitchen countertops, and think of ways to increase your styling possibilities. As stated by many experts, stacking books creates a sense of height and is a great place to reflect your interests.
Additionally, candles, trinkets, plants, and rays of light are all welcome “clutter” items that style your home while still looking intentional. You should also prioritize items that have sentimental value. Framed photos, antiques, travel souvenirs, and hand-me-downs from family add some soul to your space.
Radicaln Marble Chess Set 12 Inch White and Green
A game set will always be a great decoration for your living room. Whether on your coffee table or bookshelf, this marble onyx white and green chess set looks so timeless and chic.
Sophie Bille Brahe Velvet Jewelry Box
Crafted from luxurious velvet with a satin interior to keep your jewelry safe while traveling, this Sophie Bille Brahe box is too pretty to keep hidden away in a drawer. Can be used as a nightstand or chest accessory.
equestrian pedestal object
McGee & Co’s rocking horse is finished in weathered black on an iron base, adding a subtle touch of character to your interior. Equestrian enthusiasts will be delighted to see this at home.
More than a TikTok trend, the intentionally messy aesthetic is meant to encourage you to take a break from the pressures of tidy, picture-perfect interiors and relax a little inside your home. That’s certainly not a bad thing.
