“I’m going to make everything around me beautiful – that will be my life.”
This powerful declaration comes from Elsie de Wolfe, a true pioneer. She was not just an actress or a socialite; she was America’s first professional interior decorator. This single sentence captures the essence of her revolutionary approach to design and life. It serves as more than a professional mission statement. Indeed, it is a profound philosophy for intentional living. De Wolfe’s words invite us to see beauty not as a luxury, but as a fundamental goal. Furthermore, they empower us to become active creators of our own environment.
The Core Philosophy: A Life of Intentional Beauty
Elsie de Wolfe’s quote can be broken into two powerful ideas. The first part, “I’m going to make everything around me beautiful,” is a proactive call to action. It rejects passivity. Instead of waiting for beauty to appear, she commits to creating it herself. This concept extends far beyond chintz chairs and floral wallpaper. It suggests a mindful curation of one’s surroundings, from the home we live in to the relationships we nurture. It is about taking control and shaping our world.
The second part, “that will be my life,” elevates this action into a life’s purpose. Beauty was not a hobby for de Wolfe; it was her vocation and her very identity. This transforms decorating from a simple task into a meaningful existence. Consequently, it suggests that our daily efforts to create order, harmony, and aesthetic pleasure can define our entire lives. It frames the pursuit of beauty as a noble and fulfilling journey.
A Rebellion Against Victorian Gloom
To fully grasp the impact of her statement, we must understand the world she inhabited. Elsie de Wolfe began her career at the turn of the 20th century. At that time, Victorian design dominated homes. These interiors were often dark, cluttered, and heavy. Think rooms filled with массивe furniture, dark woods, and heavy draperies that blocked out natural light. The aesthetic was somber and, to many, oppressive.
De Wolfe championed a radical alternative. She introduced light, air, and comfort into American homes. Her signature style involved fresh colors, mirrored surfaces, and a mix of antique and modern pieces. She believed a home should be a source of joy and a reflection of its owner’s personality. Therefore, her mission was not merely aesthetic; it was a movement to improve people’s well-being by transforming their personal environments. Research supports this idea, showing that well-designed spaces can significantly improve mood and productivity. For example, one study found that employees with control over their workspace design were happier and more efficient. Source
The Impact of an Enriched Environment
Modern studies continue to validate de Wolfe’s intuition. A well-designed environment can have a tangible impact on our psychological state. For instance, access to natural light can improve mood and reduce stress. Similarly, an organized and uncluttered space can enhance focus and create a sense of calm. Experts have found that workers in aesthetically enriched spaces, such as those with art and plants, can be more productive. This data clearly shows that beauty is not frivolous; it is functional. Source
How to Live by Elsie de Wolfe’s Mantra Today
You do not need to be an interior designer to adopt this philosophy. Making your world beautiful is an accessible goal for everyone. It starts with small, intentional choices that accumulate over time. Here are a few ways to apply this timeless advice to your own life.
Curate Your Personal Space
Start with your immediate surroundings, like your home or workspace. You can begin by decluttering a single drawer or shelf. Introduce elements that bring you joy, such as a plant, a piece of art, or a favorite photograph. Choose colors that make you feel calm and happy. The goal is not to achieve perfection. Instead, the objective is to create a space that supports and inspires you daily. Your environment should be a sanctuary, not a source of stress.
Extend Beauty Beyond Your Home
De Wolfe’s philosophy can apply to every facet of life. You can bring beauty into your relationships by practicing kindness and active listening. Moreover, you can find beauty in your work by taking pride in your efforts and creating a positive atmosphere for colleagues. Even your digital spaces can be curated. For example, you can organize your desktop or unfollow social media accounts that detract from your peace. It is about consciously choosing to create and appreciate harmony in all areas. Ultimately, this practice of finding and creating beauty becomes a habit that enriches your entire existence.