Decorating for the Stars: Happy Birthday Libra

Even if you are not a believer, it's always fun to check and see what the stars are SUPPOSED to hold for you. Each month we take a look at what makes each of our boats float, home decor-wise. This month, we wish a Happy Birthday to LIBRA!

From the ancient Greek, Libra was  a unit of weight (around 12 oz), and why the sign of Libra to be represented by a set of scales. 

The assumption might be that those born under that sign are operate in an even-keeled, steady and balanced manner. Well, they'd be kind of right...this is what they STRIVE to do.

For Libras, balance is the goal, but it can be an elusive one, mostly by their own doing.

If you are decorating with-or for-an October-born person, you have your work cut out for you.  Outwardly they will have a pleasing and agreeable demeanor, but love to debate, to take a contrary view, seemingly  just for the heck of it. But often they are debating themselves.

They're not meaning to be disagreeable, they just  see it as a necessary part of their pursuit to be fair and open-minded. So they may appear pleased and content, but BA-ZINGA they will challenge you in a precise and detailed manner.

Although they will argue they are not indecisive (!!), they take their time in making decisions, weighing all the possibilities and options, envisioning scenarios and recourses. They run hot and cold, up and down, left and right. And they will push themselves past even their reserve, then need absolute calm and rest to restore their vitality.

Still with me? Good. Here is way to make Libras genuinely happy in their space:

Calming, soothing colors, monochromatic or analogous color schemes.

Symmetrical arrangements of furniture and accessories; and soft lighting.

Gentle acoustics: White noise-a small fountain, maybe an aquarium. Thick carpets, and lined draperies to absorb sound.

Sleek, polished Egyptian cotton bed sheets, fluffy bed pillows and plush bath towels will refresh and revive them.

Books. Yes, and hardcover please. Even the uber early-adapter Libras will prefer 'real' books to the electronic ones.

And art. Not for the pedigree, but for the quality of image. Abrupt abstracts are a no-as are dogs playing poker...think peaceful landscapes, portraits, or mellow abstracts instead.

Just don't expect them to make any quick decisions!

Marie Graham is an Interior Decorator, owner of The Refreshed Home , and a Pisces. Specializing in making average and unremarkable spaces shine, she can be reached directly at marie@therefreshedhome.com  or 914.607.2895. Local Realtors can meet her at the HGAR Conference in Tarrytown on 10/29.