Vintage Victorian Charm

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I'm passionate about using unique and meaningful pieces to decorate my house. Hi, I'm AJ! (Instagram: @a.j.1904) As a San Francisco local, I love to explore the city for vintage and thrifted pieces. Whether it's a mid-century modern chair, a handmade quilt, or a vintage painting, I'm always on the hunt for the perfect piece with a story to tell that can add a special touch to my home. I'm passionate about using unique and meaningful pieces to decorate my house, and I love to share them with my friends and family. I love living in Haight Ashbury. It's a one-of-a-kind, diverse area full of eccentric people, good music, and a variety of cultures. As a resident, one is welcomed with open arms, and there is a strong sense of community. There's always something intriguing happening here, which I love exploring and finding all the hidden gems. With a plethora of restaurants and shops, the dining experience here is incomparable, and the pricing is reasonable. Moreover, the arts and culture scene in Haight Ashbury is remarkable, with music venues, galleries, and festivals to visit. In addition, I'm glad to be a part of the creative energy in this neighborhood.

I've always found San Francisco's Victorian houses charming. When I first moved here, I knew I had to find one to call my own. After weeks of searching, I finally found a 118-year-old Victorian house that was perfect. The house was like a time capsule, with its old-fashioned chandeliers and ornate staircases.

The moment I moved in with my partner, our home was filled with laughter and warmth. We explored the city during the day and cuddled up on the couch for old movies in the evening. We enjoy taking our furry family – my dog Ripley, and two cats, Loki, and Ollie – on weekend walks in the park. Ripley likes to run after squirrels, while the cats chase each other through the tall grass. Living here has been a truly magical time!

My living room has large bay windows that allow plenty of light. It is filled with vintage furniture, homey touches, and plenty of vegetation.

My design preference is eclectic, curated maximalism and cozy, which is clearly visible in my interiors. When I moved in, the house was already painted in a subtle shade of blue, with neutral gray walls giving me the perfect backdrop to add a touch of bold colors.

I adorned the walls with art (some vintage and others from local artists) and photographs that I have taken over the years. These pictures tell stories of my life and the people I have loved. They bring a feeling of warmth and comfort.

For a classic-yet-modern look, I sought vintage furniture and decor. I visited antique stores and combed flea markets for the perfect pieces, then added a few modern accents for contrast. My whole home is filled with unique travel souvenirs from all over the world, providing a sense of nostalgia and a bit of personality. I started off by investing in some of my favorite home furnishings. I got a comfy, inviting couch, a few top-notch leather armchairs and tables, some unique art pieces, and some charming vintage rugs and lamps. I also included some cozy extras like throws and cushions to make the atmosphere warm and inviting.

With the furniture in place, I began to add some greenery. I have a real fondness for plants, and I filled the apartment with more than 50 plants of all shapes and sizes.

To complete the space, I added candles, scented oils, and books about vintage furniture. To make it more inviting, I always play some Lo-fi, deep house, or jazz music.

My bedroom is a cozy blend of postmodern and coastal styles. It's painted in harmonious colors, and the rattan and seashell accents give it a beachy feel. The sleek white furniture provides a modern touch, and the natural wood accents keep it feeling homey.

My queen-size bed is the centerpiece of my bedroom. It has a luxurious gray headboard and a mountain of plush pillows and blankets. I just love curling up in bed with a good book!

Two comfy armchairs stand in the corner, the ideal spot for a good read or a lazy day. A vibrant orange Verner Panton chair provides a cheerful splash of color.

I proudly display many of the books I have collected – and read – over the years. They are my source of knowledge and have played a big role in shaping who I am today.

My home office has an eclectic, mid-century, and modern vibe. Light gray walls, dark wood floors, and a wall with abstract paintings and sculptures – it's the perfect mix of style and comfort. Plus, a vintage stretched fabric and my favorite lamps offer a sense of serenity and inspiration – the perfect environment to focus and get things done.

Right in the center of the room sits a stunning teak desk, designed by Peter Lovig Nielsen. I always keep the desk organized with stacks of paper and other office supplies.

In the corner of the room stands a plush bouclé armchair, it’s bathed in the sun during the day from the window behind.

I feel like my home and all of my belongings really reflect my identity, and I'm proud to showcase it to my loved ones. I had no clue how much warmth and happiness this 118-year-old Victorian would end up bringing me. Now, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else! I feel very fortunate to have found this place. My design tip to others would be to begin with a neutral palette. It serves as a perfect background for more vibrant furnishings and accessories. It's effortless to alter the decor according to the changing trends and style. Introducing items such as rugs, throws, cushions and curtains can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Diversify the textures to bring visual interest and depth to the space. Bring the outdoors inside by adding natural elements such as houseplants, wooden accents, stone pieces and ceramic items. Adding family photos, heirlooms, or artwork can help make your house more personal and unique. Showcase your collections. This will add individuality and give your space a more curated look.