Book Review: Living Harmony by Vittoria Navone

Interested in creating a home environment that reflects you true self? I have to say, I’ve been guilty of underestimating the importance of interior design or most of my life. As a person who is definitely on the wanted register for the clutter police, this book really helped me to refocus my energy on creating a living space that I can help me feel more centered in myself.

What surprised me about this book is the wide range of approaches that can be taken to improve one’s home environment! From a more bohemian style to embracing the benefits of feng shui and Zen harmony, there’s something here for everyone. Moreover, I was delighted to discover that I didn’t need to choose (and stick to) one particular approach; now my home is the result of a combination of styles, all of which work together in harmony!

Color theory was an area that intrigued me, as color, apparently, has a direct influence on mood. Combined with a Zen approach to light and shadow, it’s possible, I realized, to create a unique space which combines different elements of our personalities. For me, it’s important that my living space calms the nervous system and creates a safe, uplifting setting in which to relax. Whereas my husband doesn’t mind a bit of clutter, I prefer a minimalistic approach. As such, we’ve decided on designated places for junk and unnecessary bits and bobs, keeping the living room and bedrooms as clutter-free as possible.

If you’re looking to rethink your living space, then I’d highly recommend this book! It’s the kind of reference guide that you can keep on your bookshelf, referring back to it every time you fancy rethinking the layout of a particular room. Highly recommended!

62 responses to “Book Review: Living Harmony by Vittoria Navone”

  1. Dave Astor Avatar

    Excellent review of what sounds like a very useful book, Ada! Could be good for someone like me who has the interior-design awareness of a turnip. 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Lol, same with me, Dave! This is the first book that has piqued my interest on the subject. I’m hopeless, but do like Japanese-inspired living and minimalism (although it’s hard to achieve, as I share a home with two teenagers, who have a lot of stuff lying around!). I’ll refer to it in future, though, and see my ideal living space as a work in progress, so to speak! Thanks for checking out the review and for your kind comments! 🌸

      Liked by 1 person

  2. mjeanpike Avatar

    That sounds like a most interesting and useful book, Ada 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Thanks for checking out the review, Jean! Yes, it’s very interesting and helpful, and I need the assistance, trust me! My house is so cluttered, but finally I have hope that, with a balanced approach, things will work out! I loved hearing about the influence of feng shui and Japanese decorating; it’s given me some cool ideas to create a soothing space. 🪴🦋

      Like

  3. Resa Avatar

    Very interesting, Ada, I get it. This sounds like a very helpful book.

    I have taken a similar approach: a room for creative clutter, a plant room with no tv just plants, light colours, lots of window and a couch, a clear bedroom and a creative cooking clutter kitchen.

    We own a lot of art, but I don’t clutter the walls with it upstairs. Downstairs is my hubs studio, and it is like an art gallery down there.

    So yes, a room for every mood, and a rooms to please each partner is a great approach.

    Thank you for sharing this book! I’m sure many will find it helpful! 🌹🌟🌹

    Liked by 1 person

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Oh, wow, Resa; your house sounds like a well-thought-out artist’s haven! You’re so creative, I’m not in the least bit surprised that you have each space under control and serving a purpose! I wish I’d given things as much thought as you have when we first moved in; sometimes I feel like we’ve never really settled in at all! Your plant room in particular sounds lovely. I’ve always wanted a Japanese Zen garden with a water feature and potted plants (no grass), which is my dream over the next few years (we’ll need to get it landscaped first once it’s just the two of us and the boys have left home…). My husband makes models, and for the time being has no room of his own in which to put them, so I think he’d like one to himself as they’re scattered all over the living room at the moment!

      Thanks for checking out the review and your kind comments! 🪴🌸🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Resa Avatar

        It’s a pleasure visiting your blog, Ada.

        I know rents and mortgages are out of this world right now, and space is at a premium. Still if you can somehow swing a personal /creative space for each of you, that is all your own, the relationship benefits greatly over the years.

        I don’t go into my hubs space w/o texting first or knocking… and he gives me the same consideration.

        The plant room… I love the plant room. Actually I need to go water shortly. It is a lot of loving work, as I have around 50 plants, of all sizes.

        I hope you get your Zen room. It sounds wonderful.

        Sending love! 🪴🌸🦋

        Liked by 1 person

    2. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Oh that’s wonderful, Resa! We’d love to do that, but with two teenagers living in the house, it’s not yet an option! I’d love to set up my husband with a model-making room of his own, and I, too, could have a designated writing space. Right now, I write in the bedroom and he makes his models in the living room, which isn’t ideal, but we’ll get there! Your plant collection sounds fab. I love plants and had a bonsai when I was little; I love Japanese-inspired plants, water features, and decor! Hope all’s well with you and thanks again for stopping by xx🌸🌷

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Resa Avatar

        Teenagers!?! Wow…
        I had no idea. Of course it would be difficult to manage extra space. Like you said, you’ll get there!
        hugs! 🤍🦢🤍

        Liked by 1 person

  4. lyndhurstlaura Avatar

    Excellent review, Ada. Great information there for organising the house. Thanks for sharing. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Thanks, Laura! Yes, I wish I’d had this when I moved in. However, I’m looking forward to rearranging things and maybe creating a Zen garden at some point! A calm living space is important to me, although it can be hard to actually achieve. I’m hopeful this book will help! 🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      1. lyndhurstlaura Avatar

        I’m sure it will, Ada – and we’d like to see some pics when you’ve got things as you want them! 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

    2. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Lol, you might have to wait a while, Laura; it’s a work in progress!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. lyndhurstlaura Avatar

        Best of luck with it! ❤️

        Liked by 1 person

  5. balladeer Avatar

    Great review! I know little about decorating but I’ll tell my wife about this book!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Thanks! I hope she likes it if she decides to give it a shot! 🌸

      Liked by 1 person

  6. P. J. Gudka Avatar

    Really great review. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book about de-cluttering or organising, this might be my sign to check out this one!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Hi Pooja, thanks for checking out the review and your kind comments! Yes, me neither, but I decided to try this one, as it piqued my interest (and didn’t seem to difficult to implement!). I’ve made some changes, but will probably make many more once it’s just me and my husband in the house. Hope all’s good with you! 🦋

      Liked by 1 person

      1. P. J. Gudka Avatar

        That’s great, new genres sometimes surprise us in a good way! Yes, all is well with me and hope you’re doing great too 😊

        Liked by 1 person

  7. thomasstigwikman Avatar

    There are so many things to consider when creating a home environment, that it reflects your true self, of course, but also the preferences of spouses, kids, dogs, and the resale value. It is tough. This book sounds like a practical and very helpful guide, and you wrote a great review.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Hi Thomas, thanks for your kind comments! Yes, I totally agree! That’s a great point; it’s tough factoring in the preferences of kids, spouses, pets, etc. as well. Not to mention the different approaches people have toward living space in general (and mess!). This book covers a wide range of approaches, and for me, a flexible one works best. I’d love to have a Zen garden, though; that’s my dream for the future! 🪴

      Liked by 1 person

      1. thomasstigwikman Avatar

        Yes it sounds like a very good book and I hope you’ll get your Zen garden.

        Liked by 1 person

    2. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Thanks, Thomas; me too!! It would be nice to sit peacefully outside and enjoy being alive for a while!🪴🌸

      Liked by 1 person

      1. thomasstigwikman Avatar

        I sit peacefully outside for a little bit every day, often with a beer, or a book.

        Liked by 1 person

  8. Yeah, Another Blogger Avatar

    Thanks for bringing this book to my attention. We’re going to have much of our house’s interior painted. And we could use some guidance in re color choices.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Thanks for checking out the review and for commenting! Yes, I know what you mean about color choices. I had no idea color was so important until I read this book. Hope the decorating goes well! 🌸

      Liked by 1 person

  9. Mary K. Doyle Avatar

    This is a different book for you to review, Ada. Very nice change. Our homes certainly affect our writing. I hope all is well with you, my dear friend.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Hi Mary! Thanks for checking out the review, and yes, I agree, it is indeed a new kind of book. I really enjoyed it, and it’s given me loads of ideas on simple yet effective ways to change my home for the better, so it’s a calm space that inspires rest and reflection (rather than chaos!!). I’m good, thanks; enjoying the better weather! Hope you are well, too, Mary xx🦋

      Liked by 1 person

  10. Priti Avatar

    Looking very interesting book. Well shared 💐

    Liked by 3 people

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Thanks for checking out the review, Priti! Much appreciated! 😊

      Liked by 1 person

  11. Diana L Forsberg Avatar

    I like the concept of color theory. Thanks for sharing your review of the book.

    Liked by 3 people

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Hi Diana! Thanks for checking out the review and commenting. Me, too! I prefer muted colors for my bedroom and more color (duck-egg blue) for the living room. I don’t think I’d sleep as well with too much clutter or color in my bedroom, to be honest!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Diana L Forsberg Avatar

        I agree–muted colors for a bedroom are great options.

        Liked by 1 person

  12. Ilsa Rey Avatar

    Oh man. I feel guilty. Our furniture was either free or cheap on Facebook Marketplace. What does that say about us? 😛

    Liked by 3 people

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      I think it says you’ve got an eye for a bargain and know how to prioritize and upcycle! Some of out stuff is second-hand; it’s amazing what moving it about can do to a room’s energy/calmness factor! Thanks for stopping by! 😊

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Ilsa Rey Avatar

        Oooh upcycle. I like how that makes me sound environmentally conscious and not just cheap! 😉

        Liked by 2 people

    2. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      ha ha! I know what you mean! 🤣

      Liked by 1 person

  13. shehannemoore Avatar

    Most annoyed Ada,, that once again WP never gave me notice of your post despite being subscribed. But saw your comment over on Dave Astor’s blog so popped by. Another great post.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Hi Shey, how nice to see you! Thanks for popping over to check out the review. Yes, I liked this book and now have aspirations to rearrange my entire living room! Hope all’s well with you😊

      Liked by 1 person

      1. shehannemoore Avatar

        Good for you. I hope if you do we get to see pics xxx. I’ve good and hope you are too.

        Liked by 1 person

  14. Klausbernd Avatar

    For a long time, I lived very minimalistic in my house. I had no furniture (all wardrobes and cupboards were built-in), but I had fine carpets in all rooms except the kitchen and bathrooms. Then it changed after many years. First came bookshelves and art (pictures and sculptures), then a table and chairs, and now I even have a writing desk, but I still have some empty rooms. Anyway, I noticed the fewer things I have around me, the more creative I am and the better I feel. But there is one exception, that are books and art.
    Klausbernd 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Hi Klausbernd, thanks so much for your thoughtful comment and for checking out the review! I think it’s fantastic that you had a minimalistic approach to your home; it’s something I aspire to one day. I agree that bookshelves and art are important in creating an inspiring yet calm environment, and love the fact you have empty rooms, which must be a joy to walk into to (so peaceful!). It’s interesting that it’s inspired your creativity, and makes me wonder if our living spaces are interlinked to our mindsets in a more fundamental way than I previously imagined. I like plants and hope to incorporate more into my home one day🪴

      Liked by 1 person

  15. Alice In Menopause Avatar

    What a cool book! I think we benefit so much from learning how to bring more intentionality to our living spaces, how it impacts our mood, creativity, etc. Added this book to my Amazon cart, (wait should I find a anti-monopolistic retailer?!) Smh, lol.

    Liked by 3 people

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Hello Alice! Thank you so much for your lovely comments and for checking out the review. Yes, I agree; it’s so helpful to find a book that helps us find a way to live more intentionally and create spaces that make us feel calm and generate positive vibes depending on what we want as individuals. As someone who shares my home with two teenage boys, I can forget this, but at some point in the next few years, I want to introduce some changes that reflect who I am as an older woman, rather than the youngish experimentalist I was when I moved in (hence the green wallpaper, lol!). Hope you enjoy the book! 🌸

      Like

  16. Lori Pohlman Avatar

    I love that type of book, Ada. I will look into it for help with design ideas for this new (but quite old) home I’m in. Even if I don’t have the budget for big changes, I can usually find ideas and come up with inexpensive ways to create a living environment that feels right. Nice post!

    Liked by 3 people

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Hi Lori, thanks for checking out the review and your kind comments! Yes, I enjoyed this book, too, and also have new design ideas, even just simply moving something to a new location can make such a huge difference! I’ve always been intrigued by Feng Shui and see this as a good opportunity to experiment! 🌸

      Like

  17. godtisx Avatar

    Interesting suggestion. Thank-you.

    Liked by 4 people

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Thanks for checking out the review!

      Liked by 2 people

      1. godtisx Avatar

        My pleasure!

        Liked by 2 people

  18. Carolyn Haynes Avatar

    Love your insightful review, Ada! Always up for a good read. 😃💕💕

    Liked by 3 people

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Hi Carolyn, yes, I learned so much about how to reorganize/rearrange my living space from this book! I’m even planning on putting together a Zen garden to help relax and inspire me. I love a calm, peaceful atmosphere, and, for me, home should be e place where I can find both of those things!🪷🪷

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Carolyn Haynes Avatar

        I completely agree, Ada! A calm, peaceful home can make such a difference. I love that you’re planning to create a Zen garden—that sounds like a beautiful way to bring even more tranquility and inspiration into your space. I’m doing the same and look forward to reading her book and learning more!
        Wishing you lots of joy as you create your own peaceful sanctuary! Keep us updated on your progress. I’d love to see photos. xoxoxo 😃♥️

        Liked by 2 people

  19. da-AL Avatar

    this sounds wonderful! I’ve dabbled a bit with feng shui & often found it helpful

    Liked by 2 people

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Hi da-AL, so kind of you to stop by to check out the review! That’s interesting; I’ve never tried it, but would like to. For some reason I feel a need to try to rearrange my living space, get rid of clutter, and generally make it a calm and restful place, but it’ll be a work in progress, I think! Thanks for your kind comments and for stopping by 😊🌸🌻🌸

      Liked by 1 person

  20. Willie Torres Jr. Avatar
    Willie Torres Jr.

    Wonderful Review… Creating a peaceful home is a wonderful investment in both our well-being and daily life.

    Liked by 3 people

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Thanks so much for checking out the review and your kind comment! Yes, I agree, creating a peaceful home is important! I’m trying to do so, but with two teenagers living here, it can be a struggle! Small steps, like getting more house plants, is key, I think! 🪴

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Willie Torres Jr. Avatar
        Willie Torres Jr.

        You’re very welcome … A peaceful home is built one small step at a time, and I’m sure all those little efforts will add up.

        Praying God fills your home with His Peace, Joy, and abundant Blessings. 🙏

        Liked by 1 person

  21. ourcrossings Avatar

    I would love this book because I am a keen believer that the physical environment can directly affect your mental health, daily stress levels, and overall physical well-being. I find that my home has a huge impact on how I feel. I don’t really have a knack or a big budget for revamping my living space, and it is challenging to achieve what I have in mind with two small kids always running around, breaking things and making a mess, but a few years ago I started by slowly tackling one drawer/cupboard/wall space at a time. I still have a long way to go, but I already feel the shift in a mood that comes with making small and constant effort to make things better around the house. Thanks for sharing, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

    Liked by 2 people

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Hi Aiva,

      Thanks so much for your very thoughtful reply! Yes, I know exactly what you mean! With two teens in the house, I, too, find it hard to keep my living space calm and clutter free, but am also trying to work on clearing out certain areas (especially my bedroom, which is my space with minimal distractions and nice plain walls and furnishings). I’ve also started collecting indoor plants, which have made a huge difference! One day, I’d like to make a Zen garden outside, maybe with a water feature so I can sit and enjoy the peace and quiet! Thanks again for your kind comments and for checking out the review! 🪴🌸🌻

      Liked by 1 person

  22. Swamigalkodi Astrology Avatar

    I feel…the story is really about learning to create boundaries—not just in a home, but within a relationship and within oneself.
    The clutter, colors, light and different styles become a metaphor for accepting differences while deliberately creating a space where both people can feel like themselves.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. The Introverted Bookworm Avatar

      Thanks for checking out the review and for your thoughtful comments! Yes, I agree; creating boundaries is really important, especially since our homes are supposed to be where we feel most safe (and able to be ourselves). I think it’s also a place to express out individuality, in whatever form it takes. 😊

      Liked by 1 person

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Welcome to The Introverted Bookworm!

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