The Artful Balance: How Bronte Taton-Boulet Creates a Home of Beauty and Function

“There's no strict formula, just a curation of things I love and that feel right in the space."

Practical Beauty

When asked about how she maintains such a sophisticated space with a child, Bronte's approach may surprise many parents. "It might surprise people, but I've never baby-proofed my home. Clementine has always grown up around fragile vases, sculptures, vintage furniture." Rather than creating a separate aesthetic for family living, she's integrated her daughter into her design philosophy from the beginning.

That said, Bronte doesn't sacrifice functionality. "The biggest non-negotiable for me is having washable upholstery and rugs. With a child, two dogs, and a garden that's constantly in use, mess is inevitable. But rather than compromise on aesthetics, I choose materials that are also practical. A home should be lived in, not tiptoed around. I think there's beauty in that kind of relaxed environment." 

Meaningful Spaces

The physical layout of a home can profoundly impact how family life unfolds within it. For Bronte and Clementine, certain areas have become anchors for connection. "The main hall/central space in our home is definitely the heart of everything. It's where Clementine plays, draws, watches movies. Even when we're doing different things, we're still together."

These spaces become more than just rooms—they're the settings for memories. "Our bedroom is the designated Friday night movie spot. It's become this cosy ritual that we both look forward to." Even more precious are the unscheduled moments: "There are so many, but one that stands out was a recent dinner outing with Clementine, just the two of us. We had a really nice conversation about her school day and the things she's interested in. Without the usual distractions, I felt really present and connected. Those one-on-one moments are rare now that school is in full swing, so I hold them close."

Beauty in Balance

Bronte's approach to home design offers a refreshing perspective for those who feel that children and beautiful interiors exist in opposition. Her home demonstrates that aesthetics and function can coexist—and perhaps even enhance each other. As she reflects on her design choices, she notes with satisfaction, "Yes, my washable linen sofa and armchairs! I originally chose them with practicality in mind (kid-friendly, pet-friendly) but I've come to love the lived-in, relaxed texture they bring. They've softened the whole look of the space while making it more inviting."

Motherhood has shaped, rather than constrained, Bronte's unique design sensibilities and her career as an art dealer. Finding harmony between her passion and family life, she proudly shares some of the most distinctive pieces that have earned their place in her home"I have a few! One is an abstract figurative painting in the dining room, created by the original owner of the house. It's a nice connection to the home's history. Another is a cubist painting from early 1900’s Spain. An then there’s the Scandinavian sheepskin up-holstered bedroom, which I found in Gothenburg, where my sister lives”.

The true art of home creation, as Bronte demonstrates, isn't found in perfection but in the thoughtful balance of beauty, function, and meaning without sacrificing one for the other. It's about creating spaces where memories can be made without worry—where both antique treasures and everyday moments are valued equally. As Bronte notes, “a home should be lived in, not tiptoed around”.

Perhaps the most beautiful design choice is the one that allows life to happen, naturally and joyfully, within the spaces we create. “I find peace in the quiet moments, especially when shared with loved ones”, Bronte shares, emphasising the importance of being present with your family above all.