How would Obama's style change the decor in the White House?

Written by Mi-Ling Stone Poole

What is Obama's style? Would it change the decor in the White House?

I'm sitting here writing my weekly column and watching Anderson Cooper and guests discuss the 2008 presidential campaign.

On the program there is talk about Obama's style.

He's noted for his sense of humor and his oratorical skills. And his wife, Michelle, is not only a stylish woman but she's an excellent speaker as well. It would be interesting to get a tour of their Chicago home to see just what kind of decor they favor and the lifestyle that they have chosen.

We've experienced the Clinton White House style. His love of jazz comes to mind. Hillary comes across as more traditional.

Both sets of Bushes have shared their Southwestern style, which includes their love for ranch living and Mexican food.

The Reagans appeared more refined but they enjoyed the California ranch life. Nancy did a wonderful job of redecorating some of the rooms in the White House.

The Kennedy White House style was elegant but they were also known for their love of the beach and their family vacations in Hyannis Port, Mass. And, of course, Jackie's personal style is still being imitated today.

When I was a young girl, my aunt and uncle took me on a tour of the White House during the Nixon administration. I recall being intrigued by the beauty of the rooms and admiring all of the historic paintings and furniture from a roped-off vantage point. Just naming a room the Blue Room or the Green Room gives it importance.

Would Michelle and Barack Obama's style change the look and feel of the White House?

I recently watched a Christmas tour of the Bush White House on HGTV. The first lady's theme for the White House in 2007 was all about our national parks. She did a wonderful job. Every national park was given an ornament, which they decorated or painted. More than 300 ornaments adorned the tree in the Blue Room.

Based on what I have read about the Obamas I have a hunch things wouldn't change that much. You might be eating a little more Chicago-style pizza or getting treated to a bowl of Barack's chili and Oprah would certainly be a favorite on the guest list. The parties in the State Room might have a little more pizzazz with the help of Oprah's friend Colin Cowie.

What a treat it would be to decorate even one room in the White House! OK, so I'm dreaming ... but what would a White House Christmas look like with the Obamas? Would Oprah's decorating guru Nate Berkus give them a hand?

see visions of an international theme, maybe even a collection of ornaments from around the world. The Palm Room might reflect Barack's love of surfing. Maybe the tree in the Blue Room would be decorated with stars that represent the hopes and dreams of the poor and underprivileged.

It's just a thought!

Now go out and create your own unique comfort zone!

Last Updated on Monday, 09 March 2009 14:49