A moment with wallpaper design house de Gournay

Hannah Cecil Gurney, daughter of de Gournay wallpaper founder Claud Cecil Gurney, showcases her unique London home, heavily influenced by her upbringing surrounded by the brand's fantastical wallcoverings. Having grown up with her father’s designs, Gurney, now working on global marketing and development for de Gournay, expresses a profound love for the company’s creations, describing her childhood as a “magical fairyland with birds flying around the walls.” She emphasizes her emotional connection to wallpaper and textiles. Her apartment, shared with her husband Eddie Harden and two dogs, is a vibrant display of color and pattern. Despite her husband's limited interest in interior decoration beyond a large television, Gurney has transformed their home into a distinctive space. She believes each room should possess its own distinct color and mood, akin to entering new worlds. This philosophy is evident throughout the residence, which features a master bedroom adorned in rose pinks and soft lilacs, a lounge in subtle greens and yellows, and a dining room in a tranquil blue. The kitchenette stands out with gold ceilings and walls, complemented by sapphire blue cabinets, creating an aesthetic reminiscent of a chocolate box. Gurney acknowledges that some might perceive her combination of colors and patterns as chaotic, attributing it to her imaginative nature and relative inexperience as a decorator. De Gournay, established by Claud Cecil Gurney in 1986, is celebrated worldwide for its hand-painted wallcoverings that depict exotic flora and fauna. These designs are a central element in Hannah Gurney's home, illustrating the brand's capability to transform living spaces into immersive artistic environments. For instance, the lounge features the 'St Laurent' wallpaper, inspired by Yves Saint Laurent's own home, paired with a velvet couch also from de Gournay and a custom marble floor. Gurney notes the practical durability of the furnishings, stating, “Nothing is fragile, a glass of wine or a dog can end up in the couch without problem.” The hall boasts a hand-painted panorama wallpaper titled 'Early Views', typical of de Gournay's artisanal approach. The integration of abundant natural light through large windows and numerous plants further enhances the vibrant atmosphere, with geometric marble flooring providing a striking contrast to the elaborate wallpapers. Gurney plans for a larger home in the future as she anticipates starting a family, suggesting an evolving design journey for her next residence. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #DeGournay #Wallpaper #LuxuryHomes #LondonLiving #SpringDecor #EclecticDesign #HeiressHome

Retailer Merry Vose, known for her three clothing boutiques Cabana, Canary, and Clover, frequently travels to Paris for work, often accompanied by her close friend, interior designer Julie Hayes. While Vose focuses on fashion, Hayes explores flea markets and antique stores for design inspiration. Their shared experiences in Parisian Fashion Week, particularly the extraordinary apartments rented by designers, with their high ceilings, intricate moldings, and herringbone floors, significantly influenced Hayes. She envisioned creating a "Paris apartment in Dallas" for Vose. The friendship and professional collaboration between Vose and Hayes span two decades. Hayes initially designed Vose's home, and later, the interiors for her boutiques and vacation homes. In 2019, when Merry and Chad Vose purchased a new house in Preston Hollow, Hayes immediately recognized its potential. Despite being a contemporary one-story residence, the house featured fine millwork, well-proportioned rooms, and high ceilings, echoing the spaciousness and luxury (le luxe) that Hayes admired in Parisian architecture. The house, built in 2004 by architect Lewis Graeber III, is situated on two secluded acres. The interiors were envisioned as spaces for entertaining, given the couple's three grown sons. Architect Weldon Turner and builder Rusty Goff were engaged to undertake renovations, notably transforming the kitchen into a light and airy space reminiscent of a French patisserie. This involved raising and vaulting the ceiling, painting wood beams white, and installing parquet wood floors inspired by Parisian designs. A custom plaster range hood, crafted by Casci Ornamental Plaster, was designed to resemble a cupola from Printemps Haussmann, a famous Parisian department store. The gallery, a sunlit hallway connecting the entry to the main living areas, establishes the home's aesthetic. It features potted palm trees and vintage Louis XVI-style settees sourced from Casa Gusto in Palm Beach, drawing inspiration from a gallery at Le Bristol Paris. This elongated space also functions as an entertaining area, with tables set up for dining. Hayes notes a growing trend in home design to integrate dining spaces into various rooms, including living rooms and hallways, due to the absence of a dedicated dining room in many modern homes. The large living room, adorned with atmospheric Gracie wallpaper, boasts high ceilings and multiple seating arrangements, creating a glamorous ambiance. An intimate seating area is defined by a 1950s Italian rosewood banquette in its original white bouclé, discovered by Hayes at the Paul Bert Serpette antiques market in Paris. Vintage metal grotto chairs from Ceylon et Cie complement a mid-century brass table by Philip and Kelvin LaVerne, perfect for both dining and games. A tiger velvet sofa with blue pillows and Venetian glass lamps reflects the style of French designer Madeleine Castaing. On the opposite side, a formal dining setup features a sculptural table with a green marble top from Balsamo in New York City, paired with blue leather chairs, potentially by Maison Jansen. A custom rug, designed by Interior Resources, draws inspiration from Yves Saint Laurent’s home in Tangiers, adding to the decorative yet comfortable atmosphere. The design incorporates vibrant colors and patterns, reflecting Merry Vose's preferences, evident in her boutiques. The interiors feature sea-inspired blues and watery greens. Pink, a favored color, is prominently used in the main bedroom, with grasscloth walls, draperies, and a rug in varying shades, highlighting the Jim Thompson palm fabric on the bed. The library showcases a combination of green-lacquered walls and lavender accents. A set of 1950s Italian rosewood chairs, previously owned by Vose, with their original lavender leather upholstery, fit perfectly into this space. For Vose, the home serves as a sanctuary that evokes the feeling of a vacation, transporting her without requiring travel. Visitors have also noted this sense of being transported, especially when experiencing the living room with its Gracie wallpaper and lush greenery outside the windows. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DallasHomes #LuxuryInteriors #ParisianInfluence #Antiques #GracieWallpaper #CustomFurniture #DesignerCollaboration

Shannyn Weiler, a Utah-based interior designer, initiated a debate on TikTok regarding the display of family photos in homes. She contends that an excessive display of personal photos, which she terms a "shrine," can appear tacky and narcissistic. Weiler illustrates her point with a personal anecdote about her first apartment being filled with only wedding photos, leading to a "shrine"-like feeling. She extends this concept to rooms dominated by baby photos or pictures of a single grandchild, suggesting that such displays lack variety and design sophistication. Weiler advocates for a more balanced approach to home decor, recommending the integration of diverse artwork, mirrors, or other art prints alongside family photos. She emphasizes the importance of mixing different visual elements to avoid the monotonous and self-absorbed impression created by an abundance of personal images. Her perspective suggests that a home's aesthetic should extend beyond personal memorabilia to include broader artistic expression, creating a more refined and less insular environment. The designer's views sparked considerable discussion among the public, with many social media users expressing disagreement. A significant portion of commenters argued that a home should primarily reflect the tastes and preferences of its occupants rather than being designed to impress visitors. Many asserted their preference for displaying family photos, viewing them as integral to personalizing their living spaces and celebrating their lives and loved ones. Some commenters specifically stated they would rather have pictures of their children and family moments than generic art prints, highlighting a prioritization of emotional connection over conventional design principles. Conversely, some individuals concurred with Weiler's professional opinion, admitting that an overwhelming number of personal photos, especially in public areas of the home, could indeed appear narcissistic or lacking in taste. Examples included houses solely decorated with wedding photos, which some found to suggest a narrow range of interests. This group often advocated for a more curated approach, where family photos are either limited in number, confined to private spaces like bedrooms, or thoughtfully integrated with other decorative elements. The article also references broader design discourse, noting that Weiler's opinion aligns with views expressed by other design experts, such as Sarah Han of Apartment Therapy. Han compares an excessive display of self-portraits to having a tattoo of oneself, reinforcing the idea that it can be perceived as vain. Joanna Goddard, a lifestyle blogger, found similar divided opinions among her readers when she posed the question of whether family photos in the living room were tacky. The responses consistently showed a clear split between those who embrace such displays as personal expressions and those who adhere to a more formal, less personal decorating philosophy for public areas of their homes. Following the viral reaction to her initial video, Weiler posted a follow-up, reflecting on how design ideas can be initially resisted but eventually adopted. She suggested that while some design advice might not resonate immediately, experimenting with new approaches can sometimes lead to unexpected aesthetic appreciation. This response acknowledged the varied reactions and encouraged an open-minded approach to interior design principles, regardless of personal initial biases regarding family photo displays. #InteriorDesign #FamilyPhotos #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #SocialMediaDebate #Aesthetics #PersonalStyle #WallArt #TastefulDecor

This article delves into the transformative power of wallpaper, showcasing various inspiring examples from the Belle archive. It highlights how wallpaper can introduce texture, character, and color to interior spaces, moving beyond the trend of white paint and minimalism. Hannah Cecil Gurney, director of the handpainted wallpaper company de Gournay and daughter of its founder, emphasizes the transportive qualities of wall coverings, recounting her childhood experience of living in a home entirely adorned with them. The article presents several distinct approaches to incorporating wallpaper into home design. One classic example features a historic country home's maximalist ensuite, where Virginia White Collection ‘Sofia’ wallpaper from Tigger Hall Designs provides a luxurious backdrop for pink lacquered details. Another instance showcases a French-inspired farmhouse, where Phillip Jeffries ‘Blossom’ wallpaper in Taupe from The Textile Company in the guest bedroom complements the lush surrounding landscape, offering a chic country aesthetic. For those seeking a more understated elegance, the article points to a formerly masculine apartment that underwent a refreshing modernization with Thibaut ‘Shang’ grass-cloth wallpaper. This pastel grass-cloth provided a timeless backdrop, enhancing the owners' cabbageware collection. A bohemian luxe style is illustrated through an eclectic Melbourne house, where the powder room is wrapped in Cromwell, Lewis & Wood ‘Tribal’ wallcovering from Elliott Clarke, designed to whisk residents away to enchanting places. Ultimate luxury is exemplified in a glamorous family residence, an ode to high-end fashion, featuring Phillip Jeffries ‘Abaca Harvest’ wallpaper from The Textile Company in the formal dining area to convey sophistication and softness. The maximalist approach is further explored with a country manor guest bedroom in Anna Spiro’s Melbourne home, where a warm-toned palette and Brunschwig & Fils ‘On Point’ wallpaper create visual intrigue. A cozy gingham aesthetic, reminiscent of a Nancy Meyers film, is presented in an Adelaide Bragg-designed apartment, where blue and green florals and gingham patterns are layered against Colefax and Fowler Tealby Stripe wallpaper. The article also touches upon neutral textures, with grass-cloth highlighted as a classic choice in an eclectic Byron Bay home, emphasizing its inherent textural and color variations. Whimsical landscapes are personified in Hannah Cecil Gurney's own London home, a vibrant display of color and pattern from her family's handpainted wallpaper company. Country florals bring romance and freshness to an ensuite bathroom designed by Thomas Hamel & Associates, featuring pale sage and floral patterns. Finally, an unapologetically maximalist home in Melbourne's Golden Mile is showcased, with classic pieces set against Soane Britain ‘Scrolling Fern Silhouette’ wallpaper in Emerald, and a moody botanical theme is achieved in a former Newtown bakery with bold botanical wallpaper from Cole & Son complementing an emerald-painted fireplace. The piece also suggests practical wallpaper options, such as the 'Plaid Parade in Beige' from Eurowalls for a vintage feel, the 'Ethereal Garden' for bringing natural beauty indoors, and a 'Grasscloth in Green' for tactile texture. These examples collectively demonstrate the versatility of wallpaper in enhancing diverse interior styles and personalizing living spaces, even offering removable options for those seeking a less permanent commitment. #WallpaperDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #MaximalistInteriors #ClassicDesign #CountryStyle #BohoLuxe #LuxuryHomes #TexturedWalls

Joanna Gaines, a prominent figure in home design with over two decades of experience through "Fixer Upper" and Magnolia Market, shares her insights into timeless design choices that homeowners can confidently integrate without fear of them becoming dated. Her philosophy often revolves around classic aesthetics, vintage touches, and practicality. One of Gaines's enduring recommendations is the use of bright white paint for trim and molding. She emphasizes that a crisp, pure white trim, such as her "True White" shade from the Magnolia Home collection by KILNZ, makes architectural elements stand out and complements any exterior paint color. This choice remains fresh and helps define a home's structure while offering visual contrast. Beyond aesthetics, refreshing trim and molding with white paint is an accessible way to revitalize a space, especially if existing paint is chipped or yellowed. Durable siding is another crucial element for timeless home design. Gaines, along with her husband Chip, advocates for James Hardie siding, a product they have used and trusted for over 20 years. She highlights its functional longevity and aesthetic appeal, noting that homes clad with this siding retain their curb appeal for decades. Gaines's preferred color palette for siding leans towards earthy tones like greens and blues, which maintain a neutral feel and integrate seamlessly with white trim and landscaping elements. Built-in storage solutions are presented as inherently practical and timeless design choices. Gaines views built-ins as an old-fashioned amenity that provides both charm and efficient storage without encroaching on living space. For those unable to install permanent built-ins, she suggests mimicking the effect with freestanding bookcases or vanities painted to match wall colors, using popular options like IKEA's Billy Bookcase or Anthropologie's Fern Marble Top Bookcase to create a custom look. Gaines encourages mixing various decor styles to create a unique and timeless home environment. She explains that a home truly feels personal and enduring when it reflects the evolving tastes and stories of its inhabitants rather than adhering strictly to a single trend. The key is to select pieces that resonate personally and then find common elements, such as wood tones or fabric textures, to unify the diverse styles. This approach allows for the integration of different eras, like pairing mid-century modern with bohemian elements, as long as there's a cohesive thread. Regarding textiles, Gaines champions classic print rugs as a versatile and timeless addition. Her collaboration with Loloi showcases designs that blend old and new, featuring patterns like French ticking stripes, Turkish-inspired motifs, and bold grids. Rugs offer an easy way to introduce visual interest and movement into a room, and their swap-ability makes them a low-commitment design choice. Modern, machine-washable options provide convenience without sacrificing traditional aesthetic. For paint colors, Gaines advises against chasing trends and instead recommends choosing hues that homeowners genuinely enjoy. She believes that personal preference leads to greater longevity in paint choices, as people are less likely to repaint if they love the color. This approach ensures that a home's color scheme remains appealing for years, or even decades, regardless of shifting fads. Specifically, dusty pink paints are highlighted for their timeless charm and elegance. Gaines points to shades like Magnolia's Ella Rose and Rosy Pink as classic hues that create a soft, welcoming atmosphere. These subtle pinks can be used in various spaces, from hallways to accents on furniture, and pair beautifully with natural textures like linen, rattan, or light oak to maintain a sophisticated and cozy aesthetic. Finally, black and white striped wallpaper is presented as a bold yet simple pattern that transcends trends. Gaines herself identifies with this style, appreciating its timeless quality. Vertical stripes can also visually enhance a room by making ceilings appear taller. Her collaboration with York offers a range of wallpapers, including classic stripes, intricate geometrics, and delicate florals, providing options for various design preferences while maintaining a timeless appeal. Marble in bathrooms is also noted for its association with luxury and longevity, with Gaines emphasizing its ability to brighten spaces and its elegant veining. Pairing marble with warm woods and soft metallic finishes enhances its classic appeal. Patterned tile, particularly designs with a long history like zellige, offers a personal and traditional character, connecting a home to craftsmanship and history without overpowering the space. Gaines's use of patterned tile for a fireplace hearth in "Fixer Upper: The Castle" exemplifies how it can complement original architectural features. Overall, Gaines's recommendations emphasize durability, personal resonance, and classic design principles, encouraging homeowners to create spaces that feel authentic, comfortable, and perpetually stylish. #JoannaGaines #HomeDesign #TimelessStyle #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #BuiltInStorage #ExteriorSiding #PatternedRugs #WallpaperTrends

This article highlights a new and extensive range of decorative wallpapers, emphasizing their modern designs and ease of application. The collection aims to refresh and personalize any home space, offering various styles suitable for different rooms and aesthetic preferences. The new wallpapers feature an easy paste-the-wall application method, simplifying the redecoration process for homeowners. The range includes diverse categories such as decorative wallpaper, specifically designed options for living rooms and bedrooms, and feature wallpaper for creating focal points within a room. The article also mentions specialized wallpapers for kitchens and bathrooms, suggesting their suitability for areas that may require more durable or moisture-resistant options. For those seeking specific aesthetic themes, the collection offers floral, leaf, and nature-inspired patterns, as well as glitter and metallic finishes for a touch of glamour. Geometric wallpapers provide contemporary and structured designs, while lining paper and blown vinyl wallpaper are available for preparing surfaces or adding texture. Additionally, the range covers patterned wallpapers like striped and checked designs, and those mimicking natural materials such as bricks, tiles, and stone, providing versatile choices for various interior styles. There are also options tailored for children's rooms, known as 'Kids Wallpaper,' and larger Wall Murals for expansive decorative statements. Traditional damask patterns are also part of the selection, catering to classic tastes. To assist customers in their selection process, the availability of wallpaper samples is noted, allowing individuals to preview textures and colors before making a larger purchase. Essential tools and materials, such as wallpaper paste and various wallpaper tools, are also mentioned, indicating that the offering extends beyond just the decorative paper to include everything needed for successful application. The article underscores that high-quality wallpaper can easily transform a space, whether aiming for a minimalist look or adding vibrancy to a busy family home. The emphasis is on simplifying home updates through innovative application methods and providing a wide array of choices to match any personal style. #DecorativeWallpaper #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #WallpaperTrends #DIYHomeImprovement #PasteTheWall #FeatureWall #PatternedWallpaper #WallpaperTools

Peggy and David Matthews, celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary, undertook a significant interior design renovation of their Southside Place home, which they built 20 years ago. The initial design of the house catered to their young children, but with their five children now ranging from 16 to 28, and several back home due to the coronavirus pandemic, the family's needs and lifestyle have evolved. Peggy Matthews, who owns Rapid Record Retrieval, a legal support company, expressed a desire to upgrade, redo, and refresh their living space, driven by her love for change. The redesign project was spearheaded by Marie Flanigan Interiors, with Marie Flanigan and design director Melanie Hamel leading the effort. A key aspect of the renovation involved transforming a multi-purpose front room, which had served as a playroom and teenage hangout, into Peggy's personal retreat. This room now features deep blue lacquered walls and built-in bookshelves, a sofa reupholstered in white fabric, a bold geometric rug with chartreuse accents, and a dark blue tufted ottoman. This space allows Peggy to relax privately, though it remains appealing to other family members as well. Peggy's passion for fashion significantly influenced the design choices, prompting the designers to incorporate sophisticated yet functional fabrics inspired by runway trends, including Hermes and Jean Paul Gaultier fabrics. The home's existing art collection, notably Andy Warhol's "Cowboys and Indians" lithographs, served as a primary source of color inspiration. The rich ochers and cobalts present in Warhol's pieces, such as "Mother and Child" in the front room, "Geronimo" in the family room, and "Kachina Dolls" in the hallway, guided the selection of the home's new color palette. Flanigan and Hamel aimed to create a vibrant interior that matched Peggy's dynamic lifestyle, moving away from an all-white aesthetic. The dining room, frequently used for family gatherings, was reimagined with customized de Gournay "Willow" wallpaper featuring delicate branches and a Lindsey Adelman "Branching Bubble" chandelier. Vintage side chairs, discovered on firstdibs.com with garish green frames and old upholstery, were meticulously restored with a gold-bronze finish and reupholstered to complement the wallpaper. The family room was designed with two distinct seating areas to accommodate both large group television watching and intimate conversations, and even includes a designated "dance floor" for entertaining. Minor updates were also made to the kitchen, including replacing traditional island legs with edgier stainless steel ones to match the existing stainless steel counters and range hood. New barstools, combining wood frames with varied fabric on the backs and seats, added warmth. A geometric patterned backsplash was installed after a range replacement, contributing to the updated decor. The breakfast area received new furniture, including a round table that can expand to an oval for larger gatherings. Furthermore, part of the backyard patio was enclosed with large glass panels to create an indoor-outdoor sunroom, offering a climate-controlled space that can be fully opened to the outdoors. This sunroom is furnished with a mix of blue and white patterns in performance fabrics, including a bold Martyn Lawrence Bullard Perennials print on a large ottoman, a striped chair, a solid sofa, and a chevron rug, ensuring durability and a cohesive aesthetic that extends the home's style into the outdoor living area. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #FashionInspiredDecor #LuxuryInteriors #ArtCollection #CustomWallpaper #ModernTraditional #IndoorOutdoorLiving #FamilyHome

Russell Loughlan, a budding British designer and illustrator, deliberately designed his 19th-century Georgian-style rowhouse on Kent, England’s oceanfront with social media in mind. Loughlan's journey to this dream home involved moving four times over a decade, each time getting closer to the water. The renovation itself presented numerous challenges; Loughlan acquired the property through a bank auction, discovering that it had served as a vacation home for 96 years and was in significant disrepair. Issues included a lack of heating, eroded steel supports, widespread mold across its five floors, and even unexpected features like fake doors and smuggler's tunnels to the beach. The original layout was also top-heavy, with cramped living spaces downstairs and larger bedrooms upstairs. Complicating matters further, the home is a preservation site, meaning Loughlan faced strict regulations. He needed approval for every paint swatch and piece of hardware, with local counselors meticulously documenting changes, from repainting the exterior a distinctive Tiffany blue to replacing radiators. Rather than altering the constrictive floor plan, Loughlan embraced it, using bold color schemes to define and differentiate each room. The entryway features a burnt orange, while the enclosed stairwell is painted teal. For the kitchen, inspired by a tapas bar in Seville, he opted for a monochrome palette reflecting the English Channel outside, incorporating turquoise backsplash tiles, navy lower cabinets, and half-painted walls, extending the two-tone concept even to the kitchen door. Upstairs, Loughlan implemented creative color combinations in the form of hand-painted stripes. He eschewed wallpaper, preferring the visible imperfections of a hand-painted finish. This painstaking process, which took four days to complete just one wall, resulted in a guest bedroom adorned with sage and white stripes and a bathroom featuring emerald green stripes. The seemingly tight layout ultimately proved beneficial for creating Instagram-worthy vignettes. Loughlan views each corner of his home as a mini, yet fully livable, set, meticulously curating scenes to draw viewers into the home's narrative. His social media feed frequently showcases original wood-burning fireplaces with styled mantels and color-blocked doorways that reveal transitions between striped and solid walls or shades of burgundy and blue. The fixer-upper, now affectionately known as the House on Dolphin Street, has garnered over 10,000 Instagram followers. Loughlan's behind-the-scenes content, particularly his approach to the bedroom walls and art collection, has been especially popular, leading to new design commissions. He initially aimed to create a home he loved and hoped others would appreciate, a goal he has successfully achieved, and then some, transforming his personal design project into a professional springboard. #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #SocialMediaInfluence #RenovationProject #ColorPalette #GeorgianArchitecture #HandPainted #DesignInspiration #CoastalHome

Homeowners Jason Persinger and Lynae Norman in Villa Heights sought to infuse personality into their 90-square-foot entryway, a space visible from all first-floor angles. They enlisted Britni Antonelli and Kelsey Peyton, co-founders of Pep + Palm, to transform the previously uninspired area into a vibrant, welcoming space reflecting a 'mid-century boho' aesthetic, drawing inspiration from plants, nature, and organic textures. The project spanned six weeks, resulting in an entryway that aligned with the homeowners' earthy, natural, and moody vision. A key design element introduced by Pep + Palm was a green Thibaut cork wallpaper adorned with metallic gold flecks. Despite exploring various options, the homeowners consistently returned to this specific wallpaper, ultimately embracing it based on the designers' assurance of its aesthetic impact. To achieve a bold yet balanced look, the designers opted for a dark paint color, Benjamin Moore’s Vintage Vogue, a green with brown undertones, for the built-ins, doors, and trim. This choice might seem counterintuitive for a room with limited natural light, but it was offset by strategic lighting. Two modern, curvy sconces, each housing two bulbs, were installed on either side of a floor-length mirror. This mirror not only amplifies light but also reflects natural illumination from a nearby window, preventing the space from feeling enclosed. Further incorporating earthy tones and mid-century flair, a burl wood table with a distinct grain and curved edges was placed in the entryway. Complementing this, two rattan stools beneath the table added organic texture to the design. Personal touches were also integrated, with Antonelli contributing a floral artwork featuring oranges and other warm colors, providing depth and harmonizing with fresh flowers and plants displayed on the built-in shelves. Accents were carefully chosen to enhance the space. A cowhide rug provided an unexpected pattern, anchoring the room, while a jute tablecloth contributed another layer of organic texture. Jungle-themed pillows on the window seat introduced pops of red and orange, adding a playful element. Functionality was also a consideration, with a high, round table in the center designed to be movable to the window bench for convenience. The wicker stools offer additional seating, and an upholstered green stool from Worlds Away serves as a practical spot for putting on or taking off shoes. The floor-length mirror also provides a functional element for last-minute checks before leaving the house. The transformation successfully created a dynamic and inviting entry. #EntrywayDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #MidCenturyBoho #Wallpaper #ColorPalette #OrganicTextures #LightingDesign

De Gournay, a prominent design house, is known for its exquisite hand-painted wallpapers that are recognized for their craftsmanship, vibrant aesthetics, and intricate details. Founded in 1986 by Claud Cecil Gurney, the company emerged from a quest to find Chinese artisans capable of restoring antique wallpapers using traditional methods. The family-run business, whose name is the French spelling of the founder's surname, specializes in adorning walls with vivid reinterpretations of historical scenery and landscapes, drawing inspiration from global cultures and centuries past. What started in London has since expanded to major cities worldwide, including Paris, New York, Moscow, Shanghai, San Francisco, and Beirut. Hannah Cecil Gurney, a director at de Gournay, highlights that their wallpapers are designed to bring interiors to life, transforming spaces by creating a specific ambience and adding comfort. Beyond wallpapers, de Gournay also produces high-quality fabrics such as organza, duchess satin, and faille, and meticulously hand-decorates porcelain. The creation of a de Gournay wallpaper is a labor-intensive process, involving a team of six or more artists and utilizing traditional, largely natural materials. Clients can select from an extensive library of design prints or opt for a bespoke service that translates their unique visions into reality. Customization options extend to embellishments, including hand-embroidered details like fruits, feathers, and flowers, often featuring individually sewn beads. This level of personalized craftsmanship distinguishes de Gournay’s products as "haute couture" for interiors, ensuring each piece is a unique work of art that stands apart from mass-produced replicas. Hannah further explains that many collections are inspired by renowned artists or beautiful locations globally. Artisans dedicate significant time to each order, with some panoramic panels requiring up to 90 hours of painting. This ensures that every wallpaper set is unique, tailored to the project's dimensions, and specifically hand-painted for the client's space, guaranteeing no two orders are identical. Among de Gournay's most sought-after collections are the vibrant Chinoiserie, Japanese & Korean, and Papiers Peints Panoramiques. The Chinoiserie Collection, inspired by 17th and 18th-century European houses and original Chinese wallcoverings, features elegant garden scenes with birds and flowers suitable for various interior styles. The Japanese & Korean Collection draws from Japan's Edo period, presenting more contemporary designs of Korean peonies, silk trees, swimming fish, and flowering wisteria, reflecting the natural world. Papiers Peints Panoramiques, part of the Scenic Collection, harks back to 19th-century French block-printed panoramic wallpapers, depicting enchanting global scenes on richly gilded, scenic, or antique Xuan papers. Additional popular collections include the abstract Eclectic Collection, which combines floral patterns with bold landscapes, and the Diaghilev Collection, influenced by 20th-century Ballet Russes and the Art Deco era, showcasing de Gournay's embroidery, gilding, and painting techniques. De Gournay maintains its design philosophy while engaging in collaborations with designers and creatives. Notable partnerships include one with fashion house Erdem, which resulted in a botanical display of hydrangeas, irises, and chrysanthemums alongside sparrows on silk and rice Xuan paper. In 2017, supermodel Kate Moss collaborated with the company on "Anemones in Light," a floral wallpaper design that changes appearance throughout the day. De Gournay wall coverings require expert installation and museum-quality acid-free paper to ensure their longevity. The company offers three ordering options: "Pret a Porter" (ready to buy), "Made to Measure" (personalized designs and colors), and "Dreamworks" (completely bespoke designs, typically delivered within three to six months). The pricing of de Gournay wallpapers varies based on wall dimensions, area size, and the type of wallpaper selected. Additional services, such as hand embroidery, which is popular despite its cost, and waterproof glazing for areas like bathrooms, also affect the price. In the UK, a standard Chinoiserie panel starts from £700, with prices increasing based on complexity. Whether inspired by a tiled mural in Lisbon or a Rococo mansion in Stockholm, each de Gournay wallpaper is a unique interpretation of history, blending tradition with modernity. The company's dedication to creating distinctive, high-quality wall art through the skilled work of its artisans contributes to the realization of aesthetically perfect interiors. #DeGournay #HandpaintedWallpaper #LuxuryInteriors #InteriorDesign #WallDecor #ArtisanalCraftsmanship #Chinoiserie #BespokeDesigns #HomeDecoration

Interior architect Kunal Shah's Goa home is a 2,500 square-foot residence designed as an homage to nature and its reflection in art, incorporating a minimalist aesthetic through white washes, wood, and natural greenery. The home is structured across two levels, with a deliberate focus on controlling heat and maximizing natural light and air circulation. A double-height living room serves as a central feature, specifically engineered to allow hot air to rise and to facilitate a constant flow of air through openings on three sides, ensuring comfort without extensive air-conditioning. This design also provides expansive views, capturing both sunrise and sunset. The layout includes a library on the mezzanine level, strategically positioned to offer a spacious view of the double-height living room, maintaining a sense of openness. The dining room, originally a bedroom, is situated on the other side of the entrance foyer, connecting to a powder room and kitchen. The upper level houses the main bedroom and a terrace, while a guest bedroom is located on the ground floor. The house prominently integrates its natural surroundings; views of lush vegetation are framed by Burma teak windows. Shah carefully considered the light filtering through existing trees like jackfruit and mango, tailoring window sizes to optimize natural light without creating symmetry, but rather solving environmental challenges and enhancing the atmosphere. The material palette emphasizes natural elements, with flooring in grey kota and black kadappa stone, chosen for their aging properties and ability to absorb solar glare. Bathrooms are finished in white Indian marble. Shah advocates for natural materials due to their sustainability, aesthetic appeal, and graceful aging process, noting that they become smoother with use and maintain their integrity without chemical intervention. The interior decor and art collection introduce color into an otherwise muted palette, complemented by the rich tones of linseed-oil-finished Burma teak wood. This wood not only adds visual depth but also provides a tactile experience, with the grain and texture perceptible to touch and feel. The art and decor pieces are a diverse collection, reflecting Shah’s personal journey and tastes, rather than adhering to a strict design philosophy. He incorporates both street finds and items collected during travels, acknowledging that the curation is an eclectic mix of pieces acquired for their momentary significance. Many larger furniture items, such as beds, wardrobes, mirrors, and bookshelves, were custom-designed by Shah himself, aligning with a mid-century modernist aesthetic blended with colonial influences and Art Deco flourishes. Notable designer pieces are interspersed throughout, complementing his extensive art collection, which includes works by Zarina Hashmi and Jeram Patel, and sculptures by Laki Senanayake. The home is a testament to thoughtful design, where art, texture, and nature harmoniously converge to create a unique living experience in Goa. #GoaHome #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #NaturalMaterials #ArtCollection #SustainableDesign #MidCenturyModern #GoaArchitecture #KunalShah

The article details the transformation of a lower-level space into a multi-purpose, family-friendly media room by designer Rajni Alex. Initially, the house lacked a sufficiently expansive area for large gatherings like movie nights or Super Bowl parties, with existing family rooms and reading spaces being too small for 'big' entertaining. The chosen location for the new lounge, at the end of a lower-level hallway with direct access to the backyard, offered an ideal setting for group activities. To achieve an elevated lounge aesthetic, Alex implemented several design elements. A metallic ombré wallcovering by Phillip Jeffries was installed above a curved seating bank, complemented by cubbies featuring soft-glow LED lighting. The ceiling was adorned with a faux suede material, selected for its realistic appearance and lighter weight. Additional walls received textural treatments through striated grasscloth and a layered plaster-and-paint hatchwork pattern, ensuring visual cohesion despite their individual characteristics. The designer aimed for the wallcoverings to possess unique identities while harmoniously blending together, creating an environment that feels both sophisticated and inviting. For the media aspect of the room, a custom console with a TV lift was developed in collaboration with Walker Woodworking. This innovative design allows the television to be concealed when not in use, integrating it seamlessly into the room's decor as a piece of furniture. To enhance the theatrical experience, chocolate brown draperies, lined with trim designed by Ben Johnston for S. Harris, were added to both sides of the space. These design choices collectively contribute to a sense of being enveloped in comfort, which was a key objective for Alex. The lounge also features a five-foot wide, organically shaped chandelier from Visual Comfort & Co., designed to mimic branches, adding both architectural interest and a sculptural element while maintaining a modern feel. A 16.5-foot armless sofa, upholstered in burnt orange mohair, serves as a central point for relaxation, capable of accommodating multiple people for various activities. This area can be easily reconfigured for cocktail seating with the introduction of sleek drink tables and pattern-backed swivel chairs. A 48-inch midcentury-style shagreen pedestal table from Elan Atelier is designated for card games or backgammon, further enhancing the room's versatility. Velour draperies contribute to the luxurious screening-room ambiance. Additional seating is provided by two barrel-back swivel chairs, offering views of either the surroundings or the fireplace. The flooring consists of a plush yet durable JD Staron indoor-outdoor area rug layered over a Fibreworks rug, chosen for its resilience against spills and its ability to withstand foot traffic, reflecting a practical approach to design without compromising comfort. The fireplace surround is crafted from Cosentino and Architectural Grille products. Key components and furnishings throughout the lounge include a Bernhardt sofa with S. Harris fabric, Harlequin pillow fabrics, Coley Home chairs with Fabricut and S. Harris fabrics, Uttermost tables, and S. Harris drapery fabric and trim. Accessories were sourced from Wayfair Professional, West Elm, and Accent Decor. The custom cabinet was created by Walker Woodworking, housing a Samsung TV, with hardware by Philip Watts Design and art by Angela Simeone from Minted. The bar area features a reflective, tile-like wallcovering from Zoffany as a backsplash, with glassware from Replacements, Ltd., Kohler fixtures, an Architectural Grille shelf railing, and a Cosentino countertop. The millwork is painted in Grate Black from Farrow & Ball, and the bar art is by Amanda Carol. These selections emphasize a blend of luxury, functionality, and family-friendliness. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #MediaRoom #LoungeDesign #FamilyFriendly #CustomFurniture #Wallcoverings #TexturalDesign #LuxuryInteriors

This article explores the enduring appeal and practicalities of incorporating vintage and historically-inspired wallpaper into contemporary home design, focusing on scenic panoramas and chinoiserie panels. It delves into the challenges and rewards of sourcing antique wallpaper while also highlighting modern companies that continue these traditional crafts. Finding true antique wallpaper from earlier periods, such as the 18th or 19th centuries, is extremely difficult due to the fragility and natural degradation of the materials over time. Suzanne Lipschutz, founder of Secondhand Rose, notes that while she has some pieces from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, most early wallpapers have simply disappeared. She more commonly finds European wallpaper from the 1960s and 1970s, or papers from the 1990s that emulate older patterns. Max Sinsteden of Olasky & Sinsteden emphasizes the unique charm and "magical" patina that comes with genuinely antique papers, though he acknowledges that finding and reinstalling them often involves an extraordinary story. For those seeking vintage wallpaper, options include finding houses on the market that already feature it, such as a Natchez, Mississippi, home with Zuber’s Scenes of North America wallpaper. Alternatively, online marketplaces like eBay and 1stdibs, along with online auction houses, can offer individual panels or incomplete sets. If a set is incomplete but from a brand still in operation, like Zuber, the manufacturer may be able to help complete it. The article advises not to be deterred by missing panels, as manufacturers can often reproduce them. Modern companies like de Gournay carry on the tradition of hand-painted scenic and chinoiserie wallpapers. Claud Cecil Gurney founded de Gournay in 1986 after a frustrating experience trying to restore antique Chinese wallpaper. His company now offers customizable hand-painted designs. Interior designer Ashley Whittaker expresses her fondness for these wallpapers, stating they provide an excellent starting point for a home's entire color palette. She suggests using these impactful wallpapers in prominent areas like a foyer or dining room to set the tone immediately, rather than hiding them in less visible spaces. Whittaker also encourages layering mirrors and artwork over the wallpaper, treating it as a backdrop rather than something too precious. The article also touches on the versatility of these special papers. While they are often seen as a status symbol in public rooms, Catherine Olasky of Olasky & Sinsteden suggests placing chinoiserie wallpaper in more private areas like a bedroom, allowing the homeowner to enjoy it more frequently. A crucial piece of advice for installing high-quality wallpapers is to use a muslin backing. This three-part installation process, described by master paperhanger Jim Yates in a previous piece, allows the wallpaper to be removed and moved to a new location, transforming it into an heirloom. A notable example is Jackie Kennedy Onassis moving Zuber’s Scenes of North America wallpaper from a house slated for demolition into The White House in the 1960s. This practice elevates wallpaper from a temporary decoration to a lasting family treasure. Finally, the article encourages embracing imperfections like watermarks and staining in vintage wallpaper, as these features can enhance its beauty and character. #VintageWallpaper #HistoricDesign #InteriorDesign #Chinoiserie #ScenicWallpaper #HomeDecor #WallpaperInstallation #DeGournay #Zuber

Interior designer Andrew Howard discusses his approach to creating a Florida home that reflects his family's cherished memories and personal tastes. The four-bedroom new build, completed in 2020 for his wife Katie and their two sons, is the second home he has designed for them. Howard aimed to infuse the new construction with personality, drawing inspiration from their vacations in Martha's Vineyard to give the facade a New England period charm, despite its Florida location. Howard's design philosophy for this home prioritized a "collected family-friendly look" over a strictly cohesive aesthetic. He describes his preference for each room to offer a unique "adventure," emphasizing the use of color and playful patterns to create energetic spaces. Blue, which he considers his neutral, serves as a recurring motif throughout the house, but each room maintains its distinct character. The open-plan kitchen, living area, and breakfast room, for example, use blue and striped wallpaper to add vibrancy, with a gingham design in the breakfast nook. To maximize light in the windowless kitchen, a shiny ceiling and shimmering splashback were incorporated. Practicality was a key consideration in the design, particularly for a family-friendly home. Howard notes that most surfaces, except in the sitting room, feature durable materials like vinyl wallpaper or custom-made scuff-resistant wallpaper, and many fabrics are outdoor-grade. This intentional choice ensures the home is resilient to daily wear and tear. The designer also focused on creating spaces that resonate deeply with his family members. He drew inspiration from a TV special about Elvis Presley's jungle room for the media room, and a photograph of the Brooklyn Bridge, their favorite city, is prominently displayed. The home also features dedicated spaces tailored to specific family memories. A guest house serves as an adults-only hangout, inspired by Howard’s experience playing in a band's green room. The formal dining room boasts a custom mural depicting scenes from a special family trip to Martha's Vineyard, including a boat, lighthouse, and dune walk, with the children even integrated into the artwork. This personalized detail ensures the family feels a strong connection to their surroundings. The sitting room, a child-free retreat for Andrew and his wife, is described as the "pièce de résistance." Howard chose a flamboyant crewelwork fabric for this space, embracing a full spectrum of colors to make a bold statement. He highlights his "more is more" approach to color in this room, reflecting his desire to create an impactful visual experience. In addition to the home tour, the article provides five rules for using decorative wallpaper, as advised by Andrew Howard. These include using wallpaper as a starting point for a decorating scheme, using flamboyant large-scale wallpapers in entertaining spaces like sitting rooms and powder rooms, being creative by papering ceilings or creating feature walls, designing custom wallpapers for a personalized touch, and adding wallpaper to the insides of glazed cupboards for extra interest. These guidelines offer practical advice for incorporating patterned wallpapers to achieve dynamic and personalized interior designs. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #FamilyHome #PersonalizedDesign #WallpaperTrends #ColorSchemes #FloridaHome #NewBuild

This article explores the integration of vintage aesthetics into contemporary home design, drawing inspiration from *Sunset*’s 2016 Idea House located in the Claremont Hills of the Bay Area. The residence, a five-level, 3,600-square-foot cantilevered structure designed by architect Robert Nebolon, features James Hardie siding and aims to embody the Bay Area's architectural character and innovative spirit. Interior designer Lauren Geremia, along with her team Emily Ord and Erin O’Brien, was tasked with warming the modern shell of the house by blending furnishings and paint from ATGStores.com with vintage pieces and artworks by Western artists, creating a home that functions as both a retreat and a source of design inspiration. The design principles employed throughout the house emphasize a harmonious blend of old and new. In the living room, for instance, the layout and soft golden palette are strategically designed to maximize the impact of the surrounding views. An often-overlooked corner of the living room is transformed into a functional reading nook, demonstrating how even small spaces can be made to count with the right furniture choices, such as a strong yet comfortable vintage wingback chair. The designers frequently source vintage furniture from online platforms like Pamono, Amsterdam Modern, Antiques & Modern, Viyet, and Lawson-Fenning. The kitchen showcases a bold approach to wall treatments, with an Arts and Crafts wallpaper by William Morris serving as a backsplash instead of traditional tile. This wallpaper is treated with a Scotchguard-like coating and covered with tempered glass for protection, offering an unexpected burst of pattern. The marble countertop extends to meet the wallpaper, creating a cohesive look. Suggested old-world wallpapers for similar applications include Florence Court by Cole & Son, Hornbeam by Farrow & Ball, and Leaves by Area Environments. Classic details are added to the kitchen through inset oak cabinetry, referencing early 20th-century Craftsman homes, and organically shaped brass hardware. Throughout the home, hardware selections contribute to the overall aesthetic, with designers favoring products from Rejuvenation, Schoolhouse Electric, and Myknobs.com. Custom millwork in the master bedroom provides ample storage and conceals structural elements, enhancing both functionality and visual appeal. The master bathroom features a unique layout with back-to-back vanities and offset sinks in a long, narrow space, maximizing individual usability. Art plays a crucial role in each room, adding character and warmth through a mix of nature-based photography, pencil sketches, and large-scale pieces from various Western artists, with recommended sources including Saatchi Art, Crown Point Press, Paulson Bott Press, and Artsy. The guest room is designed to evoke a vacation atmosphere through layered patterns and textures, including an island-style bed frame. In a small bathroom, vertical tile application creates an illusion of height, while statement lighting fixtures and unique wallpapers, such as gold-splattered options, add a touch of glamour. Layered rugs contribute to a casual, bohemian feel and provide comfort underfoot. The media room is made family-friendly with indoor-outdoor fabrics on upholstery and walls, ensuring durability. Finally, the integration of nature is paramount, with six glass-wrapped decks allowing light to penetrate the interiors, and a tiered geometric garden featuring succulents and low-water perennials in steel planters. #VintageDesign #ModernHome #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #BayAreaArchitecture #IdeaHouse #WallpaperTrends #HomeStyling #ArtIntegration

The article explores how to incorporate Art Deco style into contemporary bedrooms, emphasizing subtlety and knowing key references to avoid a 'themed hotel' look. Art Deco, an influential design movement from the 1920s, is characterized by rich materials, elegant shapes, and bold patterns. The piece highlights eight distinct approaches to achieving a modern Art Deco aesthetic. One key method involves introducing burled wood furniture, particularly for headboards. Burled wood, valued in the Art Deco era for its exoticism and decorative veneers, provides a timeless depth that bridges contemporary design with nostalgia. Designers Justin Capuco and Brittany Hart note that selective use of burl adds subtle texture and highlights key pieces, with its maximalist patterning and a combination of graphic straight lines and curves creating a streamlined Art Deco feel. Another technique is to use wicker, which experienced a renaissance during the Art Deco period. While traditional wicker designs featured bold geometric forms and intricate detailing, modern interpretations balance these classic elements with a more pared-back simplicity. Interior designer Nicole Dohmen used a wicker cabinet in a bedroom to introduce playful curves and soften the overall look, demonstrating how to blend heritage with modern design elements effectively. The article also suggests mixing straight lines and curves to achieve a cohesive Art Deco style. Interior designer Yana Molodykh, who admires Art Deco for its creative freedom and geometric characteristics, used striped wallpaper as a foundation and layered contrasting shapes. Rounded bedheads, plush rugs, and vintage artwork softened the dynamic patterns, creating a space that subtly nods to the Art Deco era while maintaining a contemporary feel. For those seeking a more extravagant Art Deco feel, mixing patterns is recommended. Oscar Lucien Ono's design for the Maison Cassandre Hotel in Paris combined embossed walls and leopard-print lampshades with neoclassical statues, creating a 'cabinet of curiosities' spirit. Bold geometric motifs and varied pattern scales contribute to a rich and sophisticated Art Deco scheme. Classic Art Deco wallpaper is another effective way to infuse the style. Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages, explains that Art Deco wallpapers feature bold geometric patterns, symmetry, rich jewel tones, and metallic accents, bringing glamour and sophistication. These wallpapers work as a strong focal point, easily combined with other wall coverings like paneling for added texture. The strategic use of black as a contrast is also highlighted. Oscar Lucien Ono incorporated black picture rails throughout the Maison Cassandre Hotel bedrooms, creating a stark contrast with lighter, golden tones. This detail, reminiscent of Art Deco frames, punctuates the space with visual rhythm and elevates it with a timeless, luxurious character. Built-in furniture offers another avenue for Art Deco integration. Small design flourishes in handles or closet door styles can evoke the era. Jacu Strauss, creative director of Lore Group, designed hotel apartments with octagonal and hexagonal shapes reinterpreted in headboards and wardrobe mirrors, using warm materials like bookmatched burl wood to blend simpler geometric patterns with luxurious elements. Finally, decorative lighting is crucial. The article emphasizes the Art Deco approach to lighting, which put fixtures center stage. While some modern pieces might lean towards Art Nouveau, the principle remains: choose lighting that is decorative and bold. The use of a Murano chandelier, described as capturing bohemian elegance, exemplifies how statement lighting can serve as a dreamy counterpart to rich textures and patterned walls, enhancing the overall Art Deco charm. #ArtDeco #BedroomDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #Wallpaper #FurnitureDesign