5 Things I Learned About Sophistication Working for the Ultra-Wealthy

In 2013, I joined one of the top Italian furniture brands as a designer, and I spent the next 10 years immersing myself in the world of the ultra-wealthy. Here’s what I learned from them about sophistication.

1.

Every design choice is intentional.

There should be a clear concept of the design of the home, and everything should relate to it. Design choices are made intentionally, are well thought out, and furniture pieces and accessories are carefully chosen. It’s important to understand that elegance is in the details. From the color of the door handles, to the light fixtures, to the chair legs; every decision speaks to the other in some way. They have a clear conceptual idea of the home, which makes the interior design selections much easier. The furniture should also fit the spaces properly, never too large scale or too small. The proportions of the furniture is extremely important to the flow and feeling of your home.

My blog post on finding your own design style can help with this: Stay True to Yourself – A Guide to Finding Your Authentic Style

2.

The house is clean, tidy, and organized.

If you want to convey sophistication, make sure your home is clean and everything is in its place. No junk, no broken items, no dirt or stains, and minimal cords and cables are showing. The house should be well cared for and give the air of being pristine. The home should also smell nice, whether by incense, diffusers, or candles (but don’t overdo it, be subtle).

It’s true that the ultra wealthy don’t do their own cleaning, but they are extremely clean. Even if you don’t have house cleaners in the budget, you can convey this feeling by having less items and making small changes like not eating on the sofa and not wearing shoes inside the house. Simple lifestyle changes can make the home easier to maintain.

3.

Less is more.

When we are referring to sophistication, less is more. Sometimes when we think of wealth we think “more”, but when it comes to sophistication that’s not the case. I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase, “quiet luxury”. There is elegance in simplicity, and high-end buyers understand that. It’s not about how much you have, but how you present what you do have. It’s about quality, and it’s the quality that gives any item the elegance.

Instead of feeling like you have to constantly acquire things to feel that sense of wealth, take your time and invest in less pieces are very high quality. Make a list of items you want, and take your time finding the right thing at the price you can afford.

4.

Artwork and books are important design elements.

Having well-placed art in the home conveys a strong sense of sophistication. Coffee table books are also beautiful accessories, and can be additional “art pieces”. These elements should be very intentionally placed, and should add to the design of the home. Coffee Table books are also great conversation pieces, as they are a way to highlight your interests.

Of course, art can be expensive, but we aren’t collecting Picasso’s here. Attend local art fairs, and invest in some original art that interests you. Have it professionally framed or you can even frame it yourself. For expensive books, you can visit thrift and antique stores. I have found many beautiful coffee table books that way.

5.

Take care of your things (and yourself).

Sophisticated people are gentle with their things. Their clothes are clean, without wrinkles, and they fit well. Their handbags and shoes are maintained, and their jewelry is cleaned and polished. They appear put together groomed.

Organize your garments in way that presents them well, and get rid of old things you no longer use. I was once in the closet of a client who was a celebrity football player, and he had his belts rolled up into perfect rows arranged by color. This is someone who could afford to be careless with his belongings, but instead he was very meticulous with them. Caring about yourself and your things conveys high self worth and yes, sophistication.

What do you think about my observations? Are these habits you’re already practicing or are they something you could see yourself adopting? Let me know below!

Dara Tannenbaum Realtor®

Email: [email protected] | Instagram: @daratannenbaum | Website: daratannenbaum.allentate.com