comments about decor online

[pitterwoo]

blog post from Elle Decor about how people can get pretty awful about the comments on interior design.  I think the last paragraph is the best part.

THE UGLY SIDE OF BEAUTIFUL ROOMS

And that may mean reframing an opinion on a rug from “PATHETIC! What a WASTE.” to “Sorry, not my style.” Or “I would have tried that in a darker color, to complement the furniture.” In other words, if you can’t say anything nice, say it in a smart, informed way. Or if you have nothing to say at all, maybe it’s best to shut down the computer and enjoy the scenery of your own home. We’re sure it’s lovely.

I think in this forum we tend to provide a lot of constructive commentary, especially when it's a poster's own home.  ::Pats self on back:: We're pretty great.  

[auntie]

One thing I like about this place is the general level of courtesy even when one is being truthful.

I only post my more current looking spaces. I'd have to do a TRIGGER WARNING before posting pics of my 1986 grandma golden oak kitchen with the brass accents, red wallpaper, cheezy overhead lighting and cheapo sheet vinyl anyway. I judge me, I'd expect all sentient beings to judge my lack of initiative. Maybe when I'm done paying tuition.

[Deleted]

Very true.
The feedback here has toned and tamed a lot. When I first joined the original board in 2006 it was downright b*tchy and obnoxious. Like if it wasn't custom built and PB you no one and it didn't matter. There was also a lot making fun of (and not in a good natured way) of before pictures. And OMG if there was ever clutter or real life in your picture you were made fun of for months.

Basically a lot of b*tching but never any advice on what to do.

I wasn't too much of a fan.

Then we went through a love everything, never say anything constructively negative phase, which was equally annoying.

Then we got really really good at handing out advice constructively. I loved that phase and learned a lot. There were a lot of us just keeping it real and that was great.

Now I feel like the advice is still there and awesome and we're nice to each other, but so much of it is out of my league. Like 30K kitchen remodels, suggestions for 4K countertops, 10K windows etc. Stuff that doesn't cross my reality because..well...Everyone I know is in Lowe's picking out the best laminate money can buy, kwim?

It's just the ebb and flow of the board and totally fine/interesting. I just don't have much to add when I'm over here all, "Look I moved a throw pillow!" Ha.

[simpsongal]

"If you can't say anything nice..." seriously Elle Decor? That rule doesn't apply to the internet. I think it applies to this board b/c this is a more personal experience, but I think Elle is being a little ridiculous.

I haven't been coming around H&G as much lately. I'm busy with the baby, plus I realized that I didn't need to post for suggestions and feedback b/c everyone's taste is different.

[Deleted]

Sept 15, 2014 9:54:57 GMT -5 @justdairy said:

I just don't have much to add when I'm over here all, "Look I moved a throw pillow!" Ha.

Ha! That's me!