Home & Design | Calm and Collected

Boulder-based interior designer Linda Mounce has crafted a modern farmhouse for her family, emphasizing a seamless flow throughout the home by implementing a consistent color and material palette. Her design philosophy centers on creating "quiet houses" where selected items can truly stand out, achieved by painting all walls the same shade of white. Mounce chose an un-tinted base white paint, which she discovered had been used for the trim, proving that extensive swatch testing isn't always necessary for an effective outcome. Complementing the white walls, she selected a custom, ultra-matte stain for the white-oak floors, which she jokingly refers to as "the color of dirt," advocating for matte finishes to minimize visible dirt. With this foundational palette in place, Mounce furnished the rooms with a blend of old and new, high-end and affordable, and modern and traditional pieces. She advises against matching furniture sets, preferring a diverse mix to create a more authentic and visually engaging look. Her sourcing ranges from artisanal creators to large retail chains, as she believes relying on a single brand can lead to a one-dimensional aesthetic. Examples include pairing an upholstered headboard from Target with mirrors from West Elm and nightstands from Noir in the master bedroom, and a Restoration Hardware dining table with an inexpensive rug from HomeGoods. Mounce's strategy involves keeping major and costly furnishings neutral, while reserving vibrant design elements for less expensive, easily changeable items like pillows, artwork, and rugs. Her signature "organic modern" style heavily leans into organic elements, aiming to introduce warmth often missing in modern spaces. This warmth is primarily delivered through texture rather than color, incorporating rustic wood, natural stone, plush sheepskins, wool rugs, and living plants like fiddle-leaf fig trees. Mounce emphasizes that faux plants are a perfectly acceptable alternative for those without a "green thumb." She cautions against overusing mixed materials, suggesting that a few chosen elements, such as plants, sheepskins, or a specific metal finish like brushed brass, should be sprinkled sparingly throughout the home to maintain coherence without overwhelming the senses. This deliberate editing, she explains, is crucial for achieving the elusive sense of flow and creating the impression of expert design. The article further details specific design applications within Mounce's home. In the entryway, she created a functional landing space with an antique Chinese butcher’s table, a round mirror, and automatically timed lighting for convenience and safety. The dining room serves multiple purposes, blending kid-friendly leather chairs for daily use with upholstered seats for guests. The mudroom is designed for practicality, featuring pantry-sized cabinets for bulk storage and a custom bench made from reclaimed barn wood, chosen for its durability and natural distress. Outdoor spaces are treated as extensions of the home, with dedicated areas for lounging and dining, enhanced by a sectional, a concrete coffee table, and timed globe string lights. For fixed elements like countertops, flooring, and cabinetry, Mounce advocates for neutral and simple choices, exemplified by white Shaker-style cabinets and subdued PentalQuartz countertops in the kitchen. In the master bedroom, rich textures from layered pillows, a patterned blanket, and an African juju hat add warmth, with strategically placed mirrors to amplify light and height. Subtle exterior details, such as horizontally cut siding and a mix of gray wood and pale stone, contribute to the modern farmhouse's authentic feel. Lastly, a bold accent wall in the master bathroom, tiled with patterned Cementine Posa, demonstrates how to make a strong design statement without overpowering the space. Mounce advises limiting such bold statements to a single wall, such as behind a tub or sinks, rather than an entire area like a shower. Overall, Mounce’s design approach combines thoughtful planning, strategic material choices, and a curated mix of furnishings to create a harmonious, functional, and visually appealing home that balances modern aesthetics with organic warmth and personal character. #ModernFarmhouse #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #BoulderHomes #NeutralPalette #OrganicModern #TextureInDesign #FunctionalSpaces #LindaMounce

This article explores the singular, non-negotiable design element that various interior designers consistently incorporate into every project, regardless of the client or scale. These elements are seen as crucial for imparting character, initiating conversation, or serving as a vital finishing touch that completes a space. The insights gathered from multiple designers reveal a diverse range of preferences, each grounded in a specific philosophy about what makes a home truly complete and livable. Darci Hether, for instance, advocates for the use of performance fabrics for upholstery on items like sofas, dining chairs, ottomans, and even mudroom cushions. Her rationale centers on the availability of high-quality indoor-outdoor fabrics that are so versatile they can be used anywhere without compromising aesthetics or durability. This choice highlights a practical approach to design, ensuring longevity and ease of maintenance without sacrificing style. Debbie Mathews LeRoy emphasizes the inclusion of antiques, aligning with her design philosophy that "every room needs at least one antique." She explains that antiques, whether a stack of old books or an elaborate chandelier, introduce history, character, and a unique patina that modern pieces often lack. These vintage items provide a rich backdrop against which newer elements can create interesting contrasts, adding depth to the overall design. Zoë Feldman focuses on functional elements that enhance the mood and usability of a space, specifically dimmers for lighting. She points out that dimmable lighting allows for flexible mood adjustments throughout the day, transforming a room from bright and functional to soft and intimate effortlessly. This simple addition is highlighted as an easy yet effective way to improve a room's ambiance and livability. Gabriela Eisenhart's essential element is a live tree, which she incorporates into main living areas to bring a sense of calm and life that is otherwise unattainable. This preference underscores the belief in integrating natural elements to create a grounded and serene environment within the home. Naïka André similarly values functionality and personalization, always including books in her projects. She notes that books are not only functional but also serve as personal home accessories, making any space feel more "lived-in" whether stacked on a coffee table or styled on bookshelves. Steph Schlegelmilch consistently uses wood stump side tables, particularly those with an aged appearance. She believes these pieces add character and versatility, fitting into various design styles from modern to rustic. Their adaptability allows them to be placed in diverse locations, from bathrooms to living rooms. Liz Williams insists on a sculptural or vintage lamp in every room, viewing it as an opportunity to add personality, height, color, and texture. She suggests that unique lamps, or even repurposed objects turned into lamps, can introduce an element of surprise and depth. Maggie Griffin integrates animal print fabrics, suggesting that even a small touch of panther, leopard, zebra, antelope, or giraffe print can significantly enhance a room. Jessica Nicastro's preference is for custom poufs, highlighting their versatility and timeless appeal. These poufs can be customized to fit any interior style and function as footrests, extra seating, or stylish accents. Sarah Tract prioritizes custom throw pillows, considering them a crucial detail that unifies textures and materials, achieving an elevated and layered look. Darci Hether, in her second mention, emphasizes custom bedding with specific stitching details to elevate a bedroom from basic to a "true sanctuary." Finally, Autumn Oser consistently includes antique furniture with turned legs to inject history, craftsmanship, and a soulful, well-collected feel into a home. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTips #AntiqueFurniture #LightingDesign #HomeAccessories #TextileDesign #CustomDecor #IndoorPlants

The 'quiet luxury' interior design trend, also referred to as the 'old money' aesthetic, gained significant traction in 2023 and continues to influence design and decor choices in 2024. This trend emphasizes understated elegance, timeless appeal, and the use of high-quality materials, distinguishing itself as a more relaxed and warmer iteration of minimalism. It prioritizes simplicity and refinement, aiming to create serene, calming spaces that convey sophistication without ostentation. The enduring popularity of quiet luxury is attributed to its ability to offer comfort, elegance, and serenity within the home, with a focus on durable, high-quality pieces that also consider environmental impact. To effectively implement the quiet luxury trend, several key principles are highlighted across different areas of the home. In bathrooms, the concept promotes warm minimalism, transforming functional spaces into personal retreats for relaxation and de-stressing. This approach, sometimes blending with Japandi aesthetics, incorporates natural materials like rich walnut to soften contemporary designs. Similarly, kitchens are evolving beyond purely functional areas to become sophisticated living spaces. The emphasis here is on integrating texture through elements like jute rugs, woven materials, and rough stoneware to enhance warmth and interest, especially when decorating with neutral palettes. Minimizing noise and clutter is another core aspect of quiet luxury, described as 'hushing the house.' This involves decluttering to create muted, serene environments where the shapes, materials, and color schemes contribute to a sense of calm rather than being overly prominent. A 'less-is-more' mentality is adopted while maintaining warmth through careful selection of colors and textures, aiming for a cohesive and timeless scheme. Bedrooms are designed to foster deep slumber and relaxation, focusing on creating a cozy and calm atmosphere. This includes incorporating personal, nature-inspired artworks, soft rugs, and carefully chosen color schemes that promote tranquility and well-being. The trend also advocates for gentle, nature-inspired color palettes, particularly organic neutrals and earthy browns. These hues create a soothing environment that aids relaxation and promotes warmth, serving as an escape from the outside world. This shift reflects a desire for homes to feel special and layered, with comforting colors that are both visually interesting and emotionally reassuring. Entryways are similarly designed to be warm and welcoming, balancing traditional minimalist principles with elements of softness and warmth through choices like warm woods and blush pinks against contrasting backdrops. This approach ensures a 'clean' space that highlights key, meaningful pieces. The power of a beige palette is particularly underscored, evolving beyond cold or bland perceptions to become 'new neutrals' that are warm by nature and adaptable to both traditional and contemporary homes. These earthy pigments bring nurturing qualities into the home, creating soothing schemes. Finally, investing in high-quality materials is crucial for quiet luxury, especially in kitchens and bathrooms where material choices have a significant visual impact. Materials like granite for countertops and solid timber throughout the home are favored for their durability, unique beauty, and timeless appeal, ensuring that every element contributes to an authentic and sustainable aesthetic. Artisanal and handmade pieces, quiet color palettes, and unique craftsmanship are central to achieving this understated yet sophisticated look. #QuietLuxury #InteriorDesign #OldMoneyAesthetic #WarmMinimalism #HomeDecor #NeutralPalettes #SustainableMaterials #TimelessDesign #UnderstatedElegance

Symmetry in interior design and architecture plays a crucial role in creating a calm and relaxing home environment, as humans are instinctively drawn to balance and order. Melissa Hanle of Hanle Interiors emphasizes that symmetrical designs appeal to people at a subconscious level, fostering a sense of well-being. Finding this equilibrium can transform any room into an idyllic and serene space. Even in rooms that aren't inherently symmetrical, various techniques can be employed to introduce or create the illusion of balance. There are three primary types of symmetry applicable to interior design projects. Translational symmetry involves repeating patterns, such as a gallery wall with uniformly spaced frames. Radial or rotational symmetry centers around a focal point, like a round dining or coffee table, where elements radiate outwards or are arranged circularly. Bilateral symmetry, also known as mirror imaging, involves designing a space where two halves reflect each other, creating a perfectly balanced visual. To implement symmetry at home, identifying a focal point is the crucial first step. This focal point can be an architectural feature like a fireplace or a window, or a decorative element such as a large piece of art. Ashley Clark of sKout Interior Design suggests considering the scale and height of artwork and accessories; for instance, a single large piece on one side can be balanced by a grouping of smaller pieces on the other, matching the overall height or footprint. Julie Hovnanian of Hovie Interiors advises using central elements like a kitchen stove or a great room fireplace as anchors for symmetrical arrangements. For new constructions or renovations, planning window and doorway placements to frame key features like a bed can enhance symmetry. If perfect mirroring isn't possible, creative solutions can be used, such as placing a piece of art of similar size opposite a window, or using a table with a lamp to achieve the same height as an architectural feature. Furniture placement is also key; intentional arrangement can either highlight or detract from the symmetrical appeal. For casual design styles, symmetry becomes even more vital as it provides a calming, predictable balance to otherwise eclectic pieces. While symmetry is often associated with calmness, asymmetry is not inherently negative and has gained popularity in modern and contemporary design. The key to successful asymmetrical design lies in achieving overall balance. Hanle explains that if a room has an angled ceiling creating a tall wall on one side, it can be balanced by visually heavy furniture or a large artwork on the opposite side. For those unsure where to begin, Hanle recommends prioritizing symmetry in more formal areas like living and dining rooms, and especially in entryways. A symmetrically designed entryway can set a welcoming and harmonious tone for guests upon entering the home, making a positive first impression and contributing to the overall sense of order and tranquility. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #Symmetry #DesignTechniques #CalmHome #RelaxingAtmosphere #FocalPoint #BilateralSymmetry #TranslationalSymmetry #RadialSymmetry

While meditation is widely recognized for its benefits in relaxation, stress reduction, and improved sleep, a study by Get Laid Beds indicates that only 11% of UK adults use it as a relaxation technique. This article aims to guide readers on how to integrate meditation into their nightly routine by transforming their bedroom into an ideal space for this practice, ultimately promoting a sense of calm and better sleep. One crucial aspect of creating a serene bedroom environment is optimizing lighting. Experts Karen Stone and Colin Reeve of Peaceful Way Retreats emphasize that light significantly influences our circadian rhythm, which regulates sleep. They recommend low lighting before sleep, suggesting the use of lower lumen light bulbs or cool-colored hues. Additionally, making the room extra dark with blackout blinds or a sleep mask helps minimize light disturbance, ensuring sound sleep. Recommended products include the Drowsy Silk Sleep Mask, known for its comfort, and blackout Roman blinds such as the Luna Bordered Natural and Black Blackout Roman Blind from Dunelm. A sleeping aid like the Beurer SL10 DreamLight LED Sleeping Aid Touch Table Lamp is also suggested to facilitate a conducive sleep environment. Investing in quality bedroom products is essential for a good night's sleep. This includes a comfortable bed with a suitable mattress and appropriate bedding for the season. Attention should also be given to pillows and props that provide proper support for sitting or lying down during meditation. For those desiring a dedicated meditation area separate from the bed, a corner of the room can be utilized. This space can be enhanced with a comfortable floor cushion or a soft blanket, combined with gentle lighting and essential oil diffusers to create a sensory experience. Examples of beneficial products are the Grove Velvet-Finish Ottoman Bed Frame from the House Beautiful collection at Dreams, the Simba Hybrid® Essential Mattress, and the LEEWADEE Meditation Cushion Set. Maintaining a clean and decluttered bedroom is vital for fostering a calm and balanced atmosphere, which aids both meditation and sleep. This involves clearing surfaces, opting for calming colors, and minimizing accessories. The experts also advise incorporating calming scented candles, particularly those with lavender notes, or air-purifying plants. Sho-moon's Calm Candle, which includes mandarin and chamomile, is highlighted for its balancing properties and comes with an accompanying Reiki-infused audio meditation accessible via a QR code. Other suggested products include the Neom Perfect Night's Sleep Scented Candle and the Bamford English Lavender Flora Reed Diffuser. Embracing the power of noise can also contribute to a relaxing meditative state. While excessive noise can be disruptive, specific sounds can be highly beneficial. Karen and Colin suggest exploring various calming music apps and recordings to find what works best for individual preferences, acknowledging that not all sounds (like whale sounds) are universally soothing. For those who prefer silence, earplugs or a white noise machine can effectively mask other disturbances, promoting a consistent and peaceful background. Finally, the practice of pausing and focusing on one's breath is emphasized as a way to anchor the mind and promote relaxation. The experts recommend dedicating a set amount of time for this practice, avoiding reflection on past events or future worries, and instead, focusing on the present moment. This deliberate creation of a 'mini retreat' helps recharge and refresh, allowing the nervous system to regain balance. Even a few minutes of mindful pausing can be significantly beneficial for overall wellbeing. #BedroomDesign #MeditationSpace #WellnessHome #SleepSanctuary #InteriorDesign #CalmingEnvironment #Decluttering #Mindfulness

The home environment significantly impacts an individual's well-being, serving as a personal sanctuary. While aesthetic preferences vary, certain design principles can uniformly promote a sense of calm and tranquility, transforming a living space into a zen oasis. These principles generally advocate for simplicity, balance, and the integration of natural elements, including specific colors, textures, and plants, alongside thoughtful lighting. Selecting appropriate colors is a fundamental step in cultivating a zen atmosphere. Warm neutrals and nature-inspired hues such as calming greens, earthy tones, and sky blues are effective in fostering peace and relaxation. Specific paint recommendations include Farrow & Ball's Breakfast Room Green, London Clay, and Wimborne White, each offering unique undertones that contribute to a serene ambiance without appearing stark or overly vibrant. These colors are versatile and can be applied across various rooms, not just living areas. Clutter reduction is another critical aspect of zen living. Storing items out of sight in enclosed baskets and boxes rather than open containers significantly minimizes visual clutter, thereby promoting feelings of calm. This approach aligns with the principle that zen spaces thrive on simplicity and clear lines, emphasizing concealed storage solutions to maintain visual clarity. Incorporating houseplants not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of a room but also improves air quality and can positively impact mood, reducing stress levels. Low-maintenance plants suitable for existing lighting conditions are ideal, especially for new plant owners. Beyond aesthetics, the functional flow of a space is paramount. Furniture arrangement should facilitate effortless movement and avoid overcrowding. Achieving symmetry and balance in the layout contributes to a natural sense of order and tranquility. The integration of natural materials such as wood and stone into decor creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. These materials can be incorporated through flooring, furniture, or tiles, effectively bringing the outdoors inside. Continuous decluttering is essential for maintaining a harmonious home. Breaking down the task into manageable segments, focusing on one room at a time, can make the process less daunting. Japandi interior design, a fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics, embodies minimalism and practical comfort. This style is characterized by ambient lighting, soothing colors, natural elements, low-level furniture, and clean, soft lines, making it an ideal trend for creating a zen space. Attention to bathroom design also plays a role; avoiding all-white schemes in favor of warmer palettes like earthy tones (browns, greens, terracotta) adds depth and promotes relaxation. Furthermore, upgrading bathroom fixtures, such as thermostatic and rainfall showers, can elevate the bathing experience to a spa-like retreat. Furniture choices also contribute to a zen environment. Opting for low-profile, neutral-toned sofas with clean lines maintains an uncluttered look, while soft textures like linen or velvet in muted colors promote relaxation. Similarly, rounded shapes in furniture and accessories provide a soothing, inviting feel compared to hard-edged styles. Soft furnishings and varied textures, such as knitted throws, velvet cushions, and soft rugs, add visual depth and engage the sense of touch, contributing to a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Layering soft, warm lighting from various sources, including wall-mounted lamps, floor lamps, and Himalayan salt lamps, creates a dynamic yet harmonious ambiance. Designating a specific 'mindful' space for relaxation or meditation can provide a dedicated area for unwinding. Paying attention to scent through diffusers or candles with calming fragrances like lavender can further enhance the sensory experience of a zen home. Ultimately, while adhering to these principles, personal preference remains key; the most important aspect is that the home fosters happiness and relaxation for its occupants. #ZenHome #InteriorDesign #Decluttering #CalmingColors #NaturalMaterials #JapandiDesign #HomeDecor #MindfulLiving #SoftLighting

The concept of 'quiet luxury' is gaining traction in interior design, mirroring a similar trend in fashion that favors understated, high-quality items over overt brand display. This aesthetic, explored in the new book "Quiet Luxury," emphasizes non-ostentatious interiors made with exquisite materials, muted colors, timeless designs, and pared-back chic. It is defined by a focus on quality, craftsmanship, and longevity, moving away from volatile trends towards a more personal style that values well-made, enduring pieces. This cultural shift reflects a growing inclination towards sustainability, minimalism, and a connection to natural materials, distinguishing it from fast-paced, disposable consumption. The 'quiet luxury' style draws heavily from both American and European modernism. Peter York, a cultural commentator, connects its origins in interiors and fashion to affluent East Coast Americans, referencing the 'old money' aesthetic portrayed in TV shows like Succession. He notes the historical Anglophilia among American plutocrats, who admire British clothing and interiors, leading to a transatlantic fusion of styles. This is exemplified by figures like US heiress Nancy Lancaster, who merged American and British design sensibilities. However, York also points out that while this style has become international, some perceive it as potentially bland or excessively subtle. Architect Richard Parr highlights Italian influences, particularly Giorgio Armani's understated elegance, as a significant contributor to the quiet luxury aesthetic, noting the enduring appeal of spaces like the Armani Hotel in Milan. The core principles of quiet luxury include simplicity, clean lines, and the thoughtful use of understated materials, echoing Ludwig Mies van der Rohe's 'less is more' philosophy. Iconic examples include his Barcelona Pavilion, which, despite its lack of ornamentation, exudes luxury through rich materials like Tinian marble and rust onyx. Pierre Petit of Atelier DAAA describes this philosophy as one that 'whispers rather than screams luxury,' manifest in elements like mohair velvet chairs or Charlotte Perriand's Berger stools. Quiet luxury also allows for the integration of classical decorative elements, such as molded ceilings and marble-clad arches, provided materials are chosen for their natural, unpolished qualities, such as bronzed metals and untreated woods. Véronique Cotrel's 'Stairway to Heaven' project in Paris exemplifies American mid-century modernism's influence, advocating for clean interiors, natural materials like wood and stone, and minimalist design that maximizes natural light and a sense of space. This trend is also a reaction against maximalism, which, while visually exciting, can feel wasteful and quickly outdated in an era of environmental concern. Designers like Margit Argus of Studio Argus note a collective yearning for authenticity and calm spaces, aligning with a growing emphasis on wellness and mindfulness. Nicole Hollis, a San Francisco-based interior designer, views this aesthetic not as a fleeting trend but as a timeless approach to creating serene and restorative home environments. She emphasizes symmetry, the avoidance of diagonal lines, natural materials, and muted palettes to quiet the senses. Consistent use of materials, such as sourcing an entire block of marble for a project to ensure matching veining, is a hallmark of this meticulous attention to detail. Historical precedents like Piero Portaluppi's Villa Necchi further illustrate this blend of rationalism, refined aesthetics, and modern comforts. Practical advice for achieving this style includes making sustainable choices, mixing old and new pieces, avoiding fleeting trends, and allowing furniture to acquire a natural patina, ultimately advocating for a mindful and curated approach where decluttering is paramount and a few standout pieces can transform a room. #QuietLuxury #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #Modernism #Sustainability #Minimalism #Craftsmanship #TimelessDesign #LuxuryInteriors

This article explores various ideas for creating a dedicated meditation room or wellness space within a home. The focus is on designing an inviting interior that promotes mindfulness, relaxation, and overall well-being. Kim Weller, a meditation practitioner and head of well-being operations at Banyan Tree Veya Phuket, emphasizes the importance of having such a space to make meditation practice more effective and to encourage a sustainable daily habit. The article suggests that any spare room, basement, or even a small corner can be transformed into a tranquil oasis. It also offers expert advice on how to design a meditation room, beginning with choosing a calm, clutter-free location. Recommendations include painting walls in soothing hues, establishing a focal point like an altar or artwork, and incorporating soft furnishings such as throw blankets, pillows, or cushions. Additionally, the article highlights the importance of natural elements, suggesting the inclusion of houseplants or stones, and personalizing the space with inspirational phrases, crystals, scented candles, or essential oils. The article provides eleven specific design ideas to inspire readers. These include creating a cozy atmosphere with a floor sofa, keeping the space light and bright with neutral colors and natural light, and embracing a bohemian aesthetic with rattan daybeds, string lights, crystals, and plants. Another suggestion is to draw inspiration from nature by using shades of green and incorporating 3D leaf installations and numerous houseplants. It also advises sticking to calming color palettes, such as warm neutrals layered with shades of blue, to reduce stress and encourage relaxation. Decorating with a variety of houseplants, including hanging ones, and adding a comfortable hanging egg chair are also recommended. The article stresses the importance of removing all distractions, citing an example of a minimalist “White Room” dedicated to sensory detox with only a yoga mat and singing bowls. It also suggests scattering multiple cushions and pillows for varied seating options and incorporating meditation accessories like Buddha statues and singing bowls. Dedicated yoga rooms are presented as another option, transforming small spaces with energizing blue walls, houseplants, and aromatherapy. Maximizing natural light by utilizing sunny rooms with large windows and comfortable area rugs is also highlighted. Finally, the article encourages readers to find decorations that evoke a sense of Zen, such as statues, potted plants, and ceramic vases displayed on shelves. #MeditationRoom #HomeDecor #Mindfulness #WellnessSpace #InteriorDesign #YogaSpace #ZenDecor #Relaxation

This Nashville home, initially a speculative build by Build Nashville, transformed into a personalized "Zen Abode" for co-owner Jamie Duncan, drawing inspiration from her experiences in Costa Rica. During the frame stage, Duncan decided to purchase the house, collaborating with interior designer Elena DeSoto while adding her own custom touches. The design prioritizes a blend of modernity and softness, achieved through the careful selection of textures, greenery, and art. Duncan's personal customizations primarily focused on the backyard, where she integrated a sunken fire pit, an outdoor shower, mondo grass, and a cabana. Inside, she introduced beams in the living room and basket lights in both the dining room and stairwell. The overarching inspiration for these elements, and indeed much of the home's aesthetic, stemmed from her profound appreciation for Costa Rica, particularly a luxury resort experience. She sought to replicate the finishes and textures observed there, incorporating details like polycarbonate panels with bamboo reeds in the cabana's skylights and the outdoor shower's design, echoing the resort's architectural features. The home's design philosophy emphasizes a minimal color scheme, which is then enriched by diverse textures to create a welcoming and serene atmosphere. Duncan views texture as a key element, allowing for a modern house to feel soft and organic rather than harsh or cold. This is evident in the juxtaposition of materials such as concrete for showers and floors with solid wood beams in the living room, showcasing a thoughtful layering of different elements. Beyond its architectural and textural considerations, the residence functions as a personal art gallery. Duncan highlights the 27-foot wall in the dining room, specifically designed to showcase a custom piece by local Nashville artist Cory Basil. She maintains a commitment to featuring art exclusively from local Nashville artists or those with whom she has a personal connection, or pieces acquired during her travels. This curated collection further enhances the home's unique character and personal significance. Ultimately, the home serves as Build Nashville's model house, demonstrating to potential clients the possibilities for creating their ideal living spaces. It exemplifies how thoughtful design, personal inspiration, and a focus on texture and natural elements can converge to produce a breathtaking and inviting environment that feels both contemporary and deeply personal. #homeDesign #interiorDesign #nashvilleHomes #costaRicanInfluence #zenLiving #modernSoftness #architecturalDesign #localArt #textureInDesign

The article explores how Inscape, a new meditation studio in Manhattan, integrates technology with traditional meditation practices to create a tranquil environment, and offers practical advice on how to replicate this 'zen' atmosphere at home. Founded by Khajak Keledjian and Lew Frankfort, Inscape aims to provide a peaceful urban sanctuary amidst the city's chaos. They collaborated with architect Winka Dubbeldam to design a multi-sensory space that uses light, sound, and air to guide visitors into a meditative state. The design principles of Inscape emphasize creating a gradual transition from the bustling outside world to the serene meditation spaces. Dubbeldam incorporated 'transition' areas like a living room, retail space, and relaxation zones to help attendees unwind before entering the darker meditation rooms. This concept is adaptable for home use, suggesting that individuals should consider the environment surrounding their meditation space. Clearing clutter and adding calming elements like plants or soft rugs in entryways can help prepare the mind for mindfulness, making it easier to achieve a meditative state. Another key aspect of Inscape's design is its innovative use of lighting. Unlike many traditional meditation spaces that eschew technology, Inscape utilizes dim, low-level lighting to create an immersive experience, mimicking an endless horizon. Dubbeldam highlights that low lighting, as opposed to overhead lighting, is more conducive to relaxation, as it reduces strain on the eyes and promotes a sense of calm. For a home meditation area, this translates to installing dimmer switches or using low-light lamps, ensuring that the visual environment supports tranquility. Finally, the studio focuses on maintaining consistent sound and temperature, recognizing these as crucial elements for an uninterrupted meditation practice. The bamboo-clad meditation spaces at Inscape are equipped to provide continuous ambient sounds, such as music or white noise, and a stable, comfortable temperature. The article encourages readers to embrace technology, like smart thermostats and sound apps on smartphones, to achieve this consistency at home. By controlling the environmental factors of sound and temperature, distractions are minimized, allowing for deeper focus. The overall message is that achieving enlightenment or a mindful state at home is attainable by thoughtfully designing the environment, using a comfortable seat, adjusting lighting, and ensuring consistent temperature and sound, all without necessarily forgoing modern conveniences. #MeditationAtHome #ZenDesign #HomeMindfulness #InteriorDesign #SmartHomeTechnology #UrbanSanctuary #MindfulLiving #RelaxationSpace #HomeDecor

The editor-in-chief of Country Living, Rachel Hardage Barrett, discusses the common pitfall of seeking instant gratification in home decorating, a trend often fueled by social media. She argues that true, personal, and layered spaces—the kind frequently featured in Country Living—do not emerge overnight but rather evolve through a process she calls "Slow Decorating." This approach is likened to designer James Farmer's "cast-iron skillet strategy," where spaces are seasoned over time to achieve a more nuanced decorative flavor. Barrett highlights that her own regrettable design decisions were typically made in haste. Inspired by seasoned homeowners and designers, she now champions a more deliberate approach, emphasizing several key lessons. The first lesson is to "Shop for the Piece, Not the Room." Designer Libby Cameron, known for interiors that feel acquired over time, advocates buying versatile furniture that can be moved and repurposed across different rooms. Barrett suggests asking if a piece can be used in at least three different areas of the house before purchasing, moving away from a rigid, fill-in-the-blank decorating strategy towards a mix-and-match method. The second lesson, "Sweat the Small Stuff," involves focusing on thoughtful details that imbue a room with personality, such as unique artwork, sentimental souvenirs, or curated collections. Barrett recounts her experience renovating a Mississippi farmhouse, where she prioritized acquiring small, meaningful items like pheasant glassware and vintage books. This allowed her to feel progress in the project, making it easier to patiently wait for the right larger, more significant pieces like a sofa or sideboard. "Prioritize Quality" is the third lesson. Barrett advises investing in hand-crafted furniture or quality antiques, even if initially more expensive, as they offer long-term value compared to cheaper, mass-produced items. This principle echoes the Slow Food movement's emphasis on knowing the origin of products, extending to understanding the artisans or antique dealers behind home items. This connection often comes with interesting stories, adding to the intrinsic value of the piece. The fourth lesson is to "Mix Materials and Eras." As Country Living Senior Homes & Style Editor Anna Logan points out, the most compelling examples of Slow Decorating are timeless spaces that resist being categorized into a specific era. Embracing patience in decorating helps avoid falling for fleeting trends, preventing a home from becoming dated quickly, a common issue seen with styles like Modern Farmhouse. Finally, Barrett stresses that "Finished Isn’t the Goal." She argues against the desire to complete decorating, suggesting that homes, like individuals, should continuously evolve. Additions should reflect new interests and personal stories, turning a home into an ongoing narrative rather than a static endpoint. This approach resonates with collectors who value curation and experience over mere possession, finding greater happiness when items are connected to personal experiences. #SlowDecorating #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #AntiqueFurniture #QualityOverQuantity #PersonalStyle #TimelessDesign #MindfulShopping

The "quiet luxury" trend, which originated in fashion and is characterized by understated elegance and high-quality materials, is now significantly influencing interior design. This aesthetic emphasizes refinement and simplicity over overt branding, a shift seen in investment fashion brands like The Row and Totême, and mirrored in home decor by brands such as Neptune, The White Company, deVOL, and Farrow & Ball. Celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow, Victoria Beckham, and Angelina Jolie have adopted this style, making it a prominent influence across lifestyle sectors. Charlotte Green, co-founder of Sixty3 London, describes quiet luxury in interiors as creating spaces with "laid-back opulence" and "effortless sophistication." The focus is on prioritizing budgets for the finest quality materials, bespoke joinery with intricate details, and soft furnishings with interesting trims, rather than showy elements. This approach values subtle details and a considered design process that results in a pared-back yet luxurious feel. Interior trends generally have a longer lifespan than fashion trends, making investments in quiet luxury decor a worthwhile endeavor for homeowners. Several key elements define the quiet luxury decor trend, starting with plush bedding. The White Company founder Chrissie Rucker OBE highlights the importance of a beautifully styled bed, emphasizing plump pillows, quality duvets, and luxurious bedding as central to the quiet luxury experience. She advises creating a clutter-free bedroom with thoughtful touches like greenery, candles, and organized bedside tables to enhance the sense of specialness and comfort. Another crucial aspect is the use of warm earthy tones. Farrow & Ball's international brand ambassador, Patrick O’Donnell, notes a movement away from cool greys towards nature-inspired neutrals such as stony browns, soft beiges, and gentle spice colors. He recommends shades like "Jitney," a soft brown-based neutral, paired with a warm white like "Wimborne White," to achieve a clean and inviting aesthetic. This palette contributes to a tranquil and minimalist environment. "Slow design" is also integral to this trend, advocating for a thoughtful and deliberate approach to decorating. Toby Perryman-Payne of @tobyshome suggests taking time to understand one's home and how it is used before making design decisions, ensuring that the space truly reflects personal preferences and needs, and minimizes design mistakes. This patient method allows for a deeper connection with the living environment. The selection of natural materials is paramount. Chrissie Rucker stresses the importance of choosing pieces that add character and gentle texture, such as timber, stone, and sisal for floors or rugs. Incorporating natural elements like greenery and fresh, in-season flowers, simply arranged, further enhances the connection to the outdoors and adds an authentic touch. Even sprigs of greenery or grasses can contribute to this natural aesthetic. Finally, the quiet luxury approach extends to the kitchen, favoring understated elegance and ordered simplicity over ostentatious appliances. Rucker suggests that well-organized open shelves displaying neat piles of plates, sparkling glasses, and cutlery in attractive jugs can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Utilizing good-looking storage jars and wooden serving boards also contributes to this clean, sophisticated look. Minimizing clutter and noise through soft furnishings like carpets and rugs is also essential for creating a serene and tranquil living space, fostering a peaceful atmosphere amidst busy modern lives. #QuietLuxury #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #EarthyTones #NaturalMaterials #PlushBedding #SlowDesign #UnderstatedElegance #LuxuryInteriors

This article explores six expert-backed strategies for transforming a living room into a serene and calming sanctuary, acknowledging its current multifaceted role in the home. Given that living spaces have adapted to serve as offices, schools, gyms, and cinemas, establishing an environment conducive to rest and relaxation has become more critical than ever. The first recommendation focuses on the power of a neutral color palette. Interiors experts suggest using various shades of cream or smart greys, layering these tones across walls, furniture, throws, and cushions to create a cohesive and tranquil aesthetic. This approach avoids stark contrasts, promoting a soft and inviting atmosphere. Secondly, the article highlights the importance of incorporating diverse textures and layers to enhance comfort. Starting from the ground up, a deep-pile rug can provide a cozy underfoot sensation. On furniture, layering cushions with different tactile finishes, such as quilted velvet, silky cotton, and slubby linen, adds both comfort and visual interest. This textural variety makes a sofa more appealing for unwinding while enriching the room's design. The third tip emphasizes bringing nature indoors. Houseplants offer numerous health benefits and contribute to a sense of calm. Integrating tall plants like Swiss cheese plants, Kentia palms, or snake plants can effectively transform forgotten corners, creating an instant connection to the natural world. For those without a green thumb, artificial plants are presented as a maintenance-free alternative that still achieves the desired aesthetic. Fourth, the article addresses the necessity of banishing clutter. Excessive possessions can induce stress, making decluttering an essential step toward creating a peaceful living environment. The advice suggests keeping only items that "spark joy," utilizing shelves, sideboards, and display cabinets for organized storage. For smaller items, stylish storage solutions like Seagrass Belly Baskets are recommended to maintain tidiness. Fifth, the importance of layered lighting is discussed. Maximizing exposure to natural daylight is encouraged for its positive impact on well-being. In the evening, a combination of table lamps, floor lamps, and wall lights is advised to create softer, more relaxing illumination, known as 'layered ambient lighting.' Overhead lighting should be dimmable, and specific lighting types like traditional table lamps for a soft glow, uplighters for ambient light, and reading lights for task-specific illumination are suggested. Finally, the article advocates for incorporating calming scents. Using candles or diffusers with essential oils, such as lavender, eucalyptus, sandalwood, or fireside scents, can add an often-overlooked dimension to the interior, aiding in relaxation and fostering inner peace. These scents are chosen for their association with tranquility and coziness, further enhancing the living room's role as a haven. #CalmLivingSpace #LivingRoomDesign #NeutralDecor #TexturalLayering #IndoorPlants #Decluttering #LayeredLighting #Aromatherapy

This article explores a collection of 26 residential projects designed to evoke a sense of peace and tranquility, drawing inspiration from Zen principles. These homes emphasize natural light, open floor plans, serene color palettes, and a strong connection to the outdoors, creating environments that serve as peaceful retreats from modern life. Each featured home showcases distinct architectural and design approaches while maintaining a unifying theme of calmness and integration with nature. The featured designs include a beach house with a dark exterior that contrasts with its bright, airy interior, demonstrating how external appearances can belie an internal sanctuary. Another project highlights a pool house in Texas that encourages an outdoor lifestyle, with most living spaces situated outside and adaptable elements like sliding timber barn doors. An updated Eichler home in Silicon Valley is showcased for its picturesque atrium, designed as a full garden at the heart of the house, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. Further examples include a Swedish cabin featuring a rooftop meditation sanctum, offering panoramic views of its natural surroundings, and a leafy enclave that prioritizes garden-centric living, with interiors designed to constantly provide views of the outdoors while maintaining privacy. A creative temple nestled in the California Redwoods emphasizes bringing the outdoors in through the extensive use of wood and reclaimed materials. An Osaka tiny house utilizes poetic arches and lush courtyards to create a sense of progression and warmth within its compact footprint. The collection also presents a Texan shelter, the Elsewhere Cabin, thoughtfully integrated into a quiet vineyard, and a serene garden oasis in São Paulo, which was transformed from a cramped apartment into a mid-city refuge with plants, vines, and pergolas forming a natural barrier against urban elements. A backyard enclave provides a peaceful haven for book lovers with its graceful ovoid design and glowing anchor point shed. A minimal seaside getaway in Japan is highlighted for its focus on serenity and surfing, designed with few distractions to maximize appreciation for the sea and nature. Additional projects include a sleek California home that eschews clutter to highlight its views, a Bauhaus-inspired Chilean “Quincho” designed for relaxation and meditation, and a minimalist Texan home where giant oak trees dominate the courtyard, providing essential shade. A sun-drenched dwelling uniquely situated in the middle of a pond, elevated on stilts, allows for swimming underneath. A chic Mexican oasis uses muted tones for meditative results, with sliding glass doors creating seamless indoor-outdoor connections. A Brazilian home, inspired by Japanese Zen gardens, features timber beams that frame tranquil views of interior courtyards. A Stinson Beach home utilizes massive, movable glass walls to invite the outdoors in, creating a fluid transition between interior and exterior spaces. A lakefront home merges prefab design with concrete slabs and an open floor plan, its industrial feel softened by oak cabinetry. A Melbourne home embodies garden-centric living, integrating a vintage dining set with a painted brick wall. A rustic space perfectly illustrates Wabi-Sabi design, including a "watshitsu" room for meditation and tea drinking with a fully glazed wall. A strikingly sustainable Connecticut house wraps around a serene pond, designed to overlook water views, and a quiet Swiss chalet draws inspiration from the surrounding Les Jeurs Mountains. Finally, a Japanese architect's live/work space is inspired by a single tree, featuring high ceilings and walls that open to the outside, and a peaceful retirement bungalow sits beside a bubbling brook and rolling hills, characterized by a wide roof overhang and a private guest bedroom. #ZenDesign #PeacefulHomes #IndoorOutdoorLiving #NaturalDaylight #SereneColors #BiophilicDesign #ArchitecturalOasis #TranquilSpaces #SustainableDesign

The article provides an intimate look into the Sunfish Lake home of antiques dealer Robert Riesberg and his wife, Christine Hartman, which doubles as both their residence and a by-appointment-only gallery for Riesberg's business. Their Federal-style house, built in 1925, is characterized by a blend of traditional design and warm hospitality, furnished with museum-quality 17th, 18th, and early 19th-century antiques, art, objects, and rugs. Riesberg, with over 50 years of experience, emphasizes buying pieces he would personally want to keep, noting that this passion drives his successful career. The home features a series of formal rooms, including a front parlor with a mahogany drum table, sideboard, and a 1760 cherry New England flip-top secretary desk, with walls painted in Benjamin Moore’s Rosy Apple. A light-filled formal dining room and gallery, added by Riesberg, is used for parties and family gatherings, showcasing French Louis XV rococo console tables with rare brèche d’alep marble from approximately 1760. The exterior of the home maintains its Federal-style architecture, while the kitchen, though the least formal space, is adorned with 18th-century Windsor chairs and Delft tiles depicting manganese figures from the same period. Creative design solutions are evident throughout, such as a small closet ingeniously converted into a walk-in bar with a Dutch door. The sunporch, featuring terrazzo floors and shelves filled with Delftware, opens to a grape arbor, offering a serene space. The fireplace mantel and paneling were custom-designed based on Connecticut fireplace patterns, symmetrically decorated with blue-and-white 18th-century Delftware. The central hallway boasts ash and walnut flooring modeled after traditional French parquetry, complemented by 19th-century oil landscapes, a late 18th-century portrait, and a Regency commode from around 1710. Riesberg’s study, designed with Connecticut inspiration, features millwork painted in a custom green and houses a substantial collection of books and catalogs on antiques, art, landscaping, and architecture. The article also includes five tips from Robert Riesberg and Christine Hartman for incorporating antiques into one's home. These tips encourage individuals to discover their personal taste by visiting various sources like museums and antique shops, and building a file of preferred items. They suggest taking inventory of existing belongings to identify pieces that don't align with one's aesthetic or function, thereby creating space for new acquisitions. The couple advocates for broadening one's scope beyond furnishing a room strictly by a singular period, encouraging the mixing of contemporary furnishings with antique gems to create a space that reflects individual taste and personality. Riesberg advises understanding the craftsmanship of antiques, particularly those made before the machine age (pre-1840), to appreciate their design details and value. Finally, they recommend taking a slow approach to building a collection, emphasizing that a few beautiful, well-chosen pieces are more valuable than a multitude of mediocre ones, and that truly beautiful homes evolve in stages. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #Antiques #FederalStyleHome #VintageDecor #HomeTours #LuxuryInteriors #CollectingAntiques