Creating a space that reflects your unique personality is so important. Displaying cherished memories throughout your home, rather than boxing them up as "keepsakes" contributes even further to the warmth and character of a room and allows you to see and enjoy the things you love every day.

A snippet of Susan’s collected items at the vacation home she shares with her partner, Bert.

Defining a 'cherished item' depends on the origin of the things you hold dear — perhaps the things you love have sentimental value, aesthetic appeal, or a combination of both. For Susan, the founder of SAM, many of the things she loves most have been collected in her travels to Stockholm, Paris, Florence, Amsterdam, and beyond or gifted to her by her three special daughters.

Susan advises, "Don’t be afraid to use all your special things in home design — it’s what memories are made of."

So how can you integrate these special mementos into your decor? Get creative! From artwork to heirlooms and souvenirs, there is a place for everything if you truly love it. By choosing items that resonate with you and your style, whether purchased, thrifted, or gifted, you can add warmth and character to your living space. Here are a few suggestions for seamlessly integrating them into your space:

Create a Showstopping Gallery Wall

Transform a blank wall into a captivating gallery by arranging a curated collection of your cherished items. Mix and match artwork, photographs, maps, or other sentimental pieces in frames to create a visually appealing and meaningful display. Start by selecting a mix of frames that complement your style and arrange them in a way that feels balanced yet eclectic. This method not only showcases your special pieces but also adds a personal touch to your home decor.

Take a "Shelfie"!

Shelves are perfect for displaying a mix of decorative items and cherished keepsakes. To create an eye-catching "shelfie," start by layering items of different heights and textures, such as books, framed photos, and small trinkets. Incorporate plants or other natural elements to add freshness and life to your arrangement. Through thoughtful organization, you can create a stylish and personal vignette that highlights your favorite pieces.

Add a Personal DIY Touch

Infuse your space with creativity by incorporating do-it-yourself projects that feature your cherished items. For example, you can create custom picture frames, shadow boxes, or even a quilt using fabric scraps from memorable clothing. These projects not only allow you to display your special pieces uniquely but also provide a sense of accomplishment and connection to your home. Personal DIY touches ensure that your decor is one-of-a-kind and deeply meaningful.

Design a home that tells your unique story by enhancing your space with the things that make you smile. The way your surroundings look contributes greatly to the way you live and the way you feel every day.

Do you have a sentimental item or collection you've incorporated into your home? We'd love to hear more about it! Share it with us or tag us in your photos on Instagram using @samdesigninc.