Nina Magon dreams in lilac marble, ombre rugs and iridescent finishes

Nina Magon, founder of Contour Interior Design, has established a reputation for glamorous, modern interiors in Houston. Her journey into interior design was influenced by a lifelong appreciation for beautiful objects, cultivated since her teenage years through shopping trips with her aunt for luxury items like Versace plates and Waterford crystal. Although initially encouraged by her parents, who immigrated from India and Canada, to pursue a business career, Magon first studied economics and finance at Southern Methodist University. She also secretly attended fashion classes at the Art Institute of Dallas, indicating an early passion for design. After graduating, Magon ventured into retail, opening a lingerie store. However, the demanding hours and limited financial returns led her to close the business. She then joined her parents' real estate company, where she discovered her true calling. Magon realized she could combine her interest in fashion with real estate by designing homes. She convinced her father to finance a spec home project in West U, for which she oversaw the design and construction. To gain expertise, she enrolled in interior design classes at the Art Institute of Houston and even hired her professors as consultants for her project. This first endeavor proved highly successful, selling before completion and generating more profit than her previous retail business. Inspired by designers like Zaha Hadid and Mies van der Rohe, Magon developed a vision for luxury modern design. In 2008, she established Contour Interior Design, which now manages a diverse portfolio of residential, commercial, and hospitality projects. Her firm also designs interiors for the spec homes built by her husband, Karun Magon, through his company, Capital Builders. Magon is expanding her reach further with a licensing agreement with Universal Furniture, through which she will launch a 20-plus piece collection of European-influenced, high-end luxury home furnishings in April 2019. Her personal home, a 6,000-square-foot mid-century modern residence in Memorial, serves as a testament to her design philosophy. Purchased for its lot value, the house was a fixer-upper with a dysfunctional layout. The Magons undertook a significant renovation in 2013, gutting and reinventing the interior to create a more open and functional living space. They reduced the number of bedrooms to create larger, more luxurious rooms, converted a bar into a powder room, and transformed a sunken living room into a media room. The home now features a sprawling open-concept ground floor, a gleaming white foyer, and a modern aesthetic dominated by a black, gray, and white color palette with occasional bursts of color from art and accessories. Karun Magon influenced his wife's embrace of modern design, advocating for it as a forward-thinking style. The home incorporates automated systems for security, lighting, air conditioning, and television, all controlled via smartphones or an iPad, a feature that many friends have since replicated in their own homes. The Magons also recently integrated Vastu Shastra, Hindu architectural principles, into their home by consolidating their prayer areas. Nina Magon's career received a significant boost from her participation in NBC’s “American Dream Builders” in 2014, where she tied for third place. This experience, though initially daunting, built her confidence and opened doors to prominent projects, including designing the interiors of the 51Fifteen Restaurant inside Saks Fifth Avenue in Houston's Galleria, a project praised for its design elegance and ability to cater to a stylish clientele. #NinaMagon #ContourInteriorDesign #InteriorDesign #HoustonDesign #ModernInteriors #LuxuryDesign #HomeRenovation #UniversalFurniture #AmericanDreamBuilders

Meghan Markle offered a rare glimpse into her home, specifically her son Archie’s nursery, through a Father's Day Instagram post dedicated to Prince Harry. The social media post, a montage of family home videos set to Jason Mraz's "Have It All," included a clip of Harry reading to Archie in the nursery. This peek revealed a calm and neutral aesthetic, consistent with the Sussexes' known design preferences. The nursery features light beige walls, complemented by a darker beige upholstered sofa that serves as the primary seating area. This sofa is adorned with textured throw pillows and a light blue throw blanket, which includes fringe detailing, adding a subtle element of visual interest. Above the sofa, a minimalist children's gallery wall is arranged with three framed artworks, one of which appears to be an elephant illustration and another a quote, further contributing to the room's serene and thoughtful design. For those inspired by this understated yet elegant nursery style, several key elements can be replicated. The foundation of the look is the wall color, emphasizing warm, neutral tones such as beige or soft taupe. Markle has previously indicated a preference for vegan, non-toxic paints infused with essential oils for her nursery walls, specifically mentioning The Organic & Natural Paint Co. for its calming and memory-boosting blends. In regions like the United States, comparable low-VOC, child-safe paint options are available to achieve a similar healthy and serene environment. Seating plays a crucial role in the nursery's comfort and style. A streamlined sofa or daybed that harmonizes with the wall color is recommended. Furniture pieces with clean lines and removable covers are practical choices for ease of maintenance in a child's room. Complementing the seating, textiles such as throw blankets and pillows in cream, off-white, or pale blue, especially those with fringe trim, introduce visual texture while maintaining a soft and inviting atmosphere. The art display is another significant component of the nursery's design. A minimalist gallery wall, featuring coordinating prints in light frames positioned above the seating area, creates an engaging yet uncluttered focal point. Finally, the overall aesthetic is completed with minimal finishing touches. This involves carefully selected accessories like a few books, simple lighting fixtures, and the incorporation of natural textures, all contributing to an uncluttered and tranquil space. #MeghanMarkle #NurseryDecor #HomeDesign #NeutralPalette #InteriorStyle #CelebrityHome #UnderstatedElegance #DIYHomeDecor

The article presents room design ideas from maximalist expert Abigail Ahern, focusing on creating personalized and character-filled homes. Ahern, known for her 'more is more' philosophy, encourages bold color palettes, luxurious textiles, diverse patterns, and embellishments, contrasting with minimalist aesthetics. Her new book, *Everything*, serves as a guide for individuals to express their personalities through home design, especially relevant given the increased time spent indoors. Ahern emphasizes the importance of incorporating tactile textures to add depth and interest to a space. She suggests mixing various textures, such as shaggy rugs, metallic accents, woolly cushions, and fluffy throws, to create friction and visual richness. A key principle highlighted is the 'golden rule' of repetition, where any single texture should be used at least three times within a space to ensure cohesion and harmony. This approach helps prevent a room from feeling disjointed and contributes to a well-integrated maximalist design. Regarding color, Ahern advocates for intuition over apprehension, particularly when considering dark hues for smaller rooms. She advises against seeking external opinions, as color choices often provoke fear in others, and encourages designers to trust their own instincts. To inject vitality into predictable spaces, she recommends introducing a few colors that seemingly deviate from the main palette, thereby infusing the room with unexpected life and energy. For furniture arrangement, Ahern prioritizes traffic flow but advises against overthinking it. The primary goal is to ensure ease of movement without obstruction. A distinctive tip from Ahern is to float furniture in the middle of a room, even in compact spaces, to foster intimate conversation areas. She argues that pushing furniture against walls can make a room feel institutional, akin to a waiting room, and encourages regular rearrangement to revitalize the home's ambiance. Lighting plays a crucial role in transforming a dull space into a cozy retreat. While acknowledging the vast array of styles, Ahern prefers lighting fixtures that complement existing decor rather than overtly standing out. She specifically recommends investing in table lamps, which can either blend with the room's style or serve as an interesting focal point. Mixing two different table lamps with similar colors or geometric shapes can introduce visual symmetry. For dramatic effect and definition, pendants are suggested. Layering materials is another essential technique for creating depth. Ahern advises against matching materials too closely, such as a grey ceramic coffee table with a grey concrete floor, instead suggesting a marble alternative. Incorporating rustic elements like rattan or cane and blending shiny with matte finishes adds complexity. For a cozy atmosphere, the article highlights the warmth of wood, with finer grains offering formality and larger grains providing a casual feel, or a combination of both for a richer effect. To avoid a monotonous, catalogue-like appearance, Ahern stresses the importance of varying heights and scales within a room. She suggests combining tall and short, thin and plump items, such as placing a small chair next to a larger table. Oversized lamps or sculptures can serve as captivating focal points, creating visual interest without clutter. The article emphasizes that grand gestures often yield the most mesmerizing results. Finally, the article underscores the need to inject personality through pattern. Homes should reflect their occupants' individuality. Creating a gallery wall with beloved prints, or clustering patterned cushions on a solid-colored sofa, are immediate ways to add dimension. For those feeling more adventurous, mixing patterns through rugs and wallpapered walls is encouraged, combining graphic with organic elements or leopard print with florals. Incorporating diverse cultural influences can also create a fascinating design. To maintain an eclectic yet cohesive look, linking motifs, scales, and colors is crucial. #AbigailAhern #MaximalistDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #RoomDesign #TexturalElements #ColorTheory #FurnitureArrangement #LightingDesign #PatternMixing

The article explores how to recreate the signature cozy and elegant aesthetic of Nancy Meyers' films in living room decor, particularly for the autumn season. It highlights five key design approaches inspired by the filmmaker's iconic movie sets, emphasizing comfort, luxury, natural textures, and a blend of traditional and contemporary elements. The author notes that Nancy Meyers' films are renowned for their effortlessly staged and inviting living spaces, making them a popular source of inspiration for fall decorating. One approach is to combine comfort with a hint of luxury, as seen in a living room by Brad Ramsey Interiors. This style features soft gray tones, tactile materials, and furniture arranged to encourage conversation around a fireplace. Theresa Butler, an interior designer, points out that Meyers' living rooms, such as Jules' apartment in "The Intern," often blend exquisite architectural elements like intricate molding and elegant fireplaces with modern furniture, creating a timeless and balanced design. This aesthetic offers depth without being overly opulent, appealing to those seeking enduring home decor. Another characteristic of Nancy Meyers' style is the use of layered natural textures. This creates a quiet luxury feel, reminiscent of Cameron Diaz's living room in "The Holiday." Theresa Butler explains that these spaces feel lived-in due to the display of personal items like books and photos. In neutral spaces, natural materials like stone and wood, combined with simple ceramic displays, contribute to a rustic yet sophisticated ambiance. Layering rugs and mixing various textures such as cotton, rattan, and metal are crucial for achieving a curated, comfortable, and un-staged look. Simplicity and elegance are central to the Nancy Meyers aesthetic, often featuring a fresh coastal vibe. A neutral sectional paired with tactile soft furnishings, such as throws and pillows with defined patterns, can effectively transition a space for autumn. Noelle Harvey of Sunday House emphasizes the importance of selecting timeless finishes to create a lasting design. Strategic lighting, including pendants, table lamps, and sconces, is also highlighted as a way to enhance a living room's inviting atmosphere, as exemplified by Nancy Meyers' own entryway staging. The article also suggests being bolder with rich colors to emulate the autumnal feel of Meyers' films. Inspired by fall foliage and heavy fabrics, this approach incorporates ochres, burgundy, and cappuccino shades for a cocooning effect. Hannah Oravec of Lawless Design recommends bringing the outdoors in with natural colors and materials like wood and velvet to add warmth. A base of earth tones such as rust, greens, mustards, and beiges can effectively highlight these characteristics, creating a truly autumnal color scheme. Finally, the concept of "overstuffing" with pattern and nostalgia is presented as a way to capture the cozy exuberance often seen in Meyers' traditional farmhouse-style sets. This involves combining linear stripes with intricate floral designs and geometric prints. Katie Rosenfield notes that this trend taps into a desire for comfort, nostalgia, and family memories, evoking a classic American aesthetic associated with overstuffed furniture, blue and white decor, and coastal living. This timeless look, with its blend of comfort and luxury, is ideal for transitioning from late summer into early fall. #NancyMeyers #InteriorDesign #LivingRoomDecor #FallDecor #HomeDecor #CozyInteriors #LuxuryDesign #NaturalTextures #ColorSchemes

Designer Nina Farmer of Nina Farmer Interiors embarked on a project to design a cliffside summer house in midcoast Maine, aiming to draw inspiration from the dramatic panoramic views of the ocean and the picturesque rocky coastline. The design challenge was to create an interior that complements, rather than competes with, the stunning outdoor scenery, providing a sense of solitude and calm amidst natural beauty. Given the first floor's open floor plan, Farmer opted for a tight color palette, introducing patterns and colors primarily through furnishings to avoid distracting from the exterior views with wallpapers. Farmer's design approach included incorporating unexpected moments of color, thoughtfully proportioned to the outside panorama, in areas where one could pause and appreciate the hues. Having previously worked with the clients on their main residence, Farmer understood their preference for a cozy and atmospheric space that felt appropriate for Maine's fog and salt air, steering clear of typical beach house aesthetics. The Scottish origin of one of the homeowners also influenced the design direction, contributing to a unique aesthetic. The design process began with the flooring, where a dining room rug featuring colors not commonly associated with seaside homes became a key inspiration. This rustic red hue was then extended to the living room ceiling, while a bright yellow was introduced in the kitchen cabinets. To establish a strong connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape, Farmer integrated stone tones—including pink and gray—along with evergreen shades and deep, earthy colors, mirroring the large rocks visible from the back of the house. Textural elements such as plaids, flannels, worn woods, and a variety of vintage pieces were used to create a layered, lived-in feel, suggesting a collection of items acquired over time rather than a newly decorated space. The first floor primarily received a refresh of its finishes, with Farmer appreciating the existing character of the brick and board textures while desiring a clean canvas. The second floor, however, required structural modifications. An upstairs sitting room was reconfigured into a primary suite to maximize the spectacular views. Farmer focused on making significant visual and emotional impact with minimal structural changes. The newly designed primary bathroom, lacking windows, became an opportunity for a bold design statement. Here, a sculptural shower was created using Clé zellige tiles in colors that echoed both the landscape and the adjacent bedroom’s palette, featuring a disordered design outlined by a solid line. A vintage 18th-century oak dresser, retrofitted with Belgian Bluestone, updated hardware, Belgrave iron sconces, and a custom patterned mirror, served as the vanity, reflecting the shower’s unique design. Every element of the house, down to the dramatic black dishware in the kitchen, was curated by Farmer, who enjoys considering these small details and their contribution to the home's overall narrative. The informal, asymmetrical chick blinds throughout the house reinforce the relaxed atmosphere, indicating a home designed for comfort and ease. #NinaFarmerInteriors #MaineCoast #InteriorDesign #CoastalHome #DesignInspiration #ColorPalette #VintageDecor #HomeRenovation #LuxuryInteriors

Midimalism, a contemporary design trend that harmoniously blends elements of minimalism and maximalism, offers a balanced approach to interior decoration. This style aims to create spaces that are eclectic yet thoughtfully curated, providing visual interest without overwhelming the senses. It is particularly well-suited for bedrooms, where it can foster a soothing, inviting, and personalized sanctuary. Unlike the often stark aesthetic of pure minimalism or the abundance of maximalism, midimalism maintains depth and character through carefully chosen layers. Interior designer Kim Armstrong describes it as a tightrope walk between richness and rest, where layers are present but selected with precision. The midimalist bedroom avoids clutter while still feeling personal and rich in detail. One key aspect of achieving a midimalist bedroom is the integration of both traditional and modern accents. This approach involves selecting a contemporary, neutral color palette and pairing it with elegant, simple bedding. Vintage decor and antique furniture are incorporated, but in a balanced manner, often uplifted by modern soft furnishings. The goal is to create a timeless design that reflects the owner's tastes and balances style with practicality, using meaningful pieces sparingly to give them greater purpose. Another characteristic of midimalist design is the strategic use of color. While a more minimal decorating approach is adopted, vibrant colors and rustic decor are introduced as pops, ensuring the space remains refreshing yet impactful. Holly Vaughan, founder of Vaughan Design, emphasizes that midimalists appreciate texture, color, and pattern but prefer these elements not to dominate. The strategy involves focusing on a few key elements of pattern, texture, and and color to create interest without busyness. When incorporating patterns, designers recommend using less vibrant colors to maintain a subdued overall scheme. If a bolder color is used as a primary element, other components are kept softer, or a neutral backdrop is chosen to allow colorful or smaller-scale patterns to serve as focal points. Layers of quiet patterns are also integral to the midimalist aesthetic. This involves combining various textiles, wall coverings, art, and furnishings so they complement rather than compete. Patterns are welcome, but their scale is typically subdued, such as small-scale wallpaper or textural grasscloth, paired with a limited number of coordinating prints (four or five at most, compared to the ten or twelve often seen in maximalist spaces). The color palette is often cohesive, leaning towards analogous or monochromatic schemes, where every hue contributes to a unified visual narrative. Establishing a neutral base is crucial for midimalist bedrooms. This foundation allows for versatility, enabling bolder, colorful accessories and furniture to be introduced without clashing. Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore, suggests choosing a neutral base that aligns with the home's overall color scheme. For instance, if a home leans towards warm colors, warmer neutrals or white paints with warm undertones are recommended. For those who wish to incorporate multiple colors, a visual balance is maintained by following a ratio, such as 60% for the main color, 30% for the secondary, and 10% for an accent. The accent color helps to unify the scheme and prevent it from becoming ultra-contrasting. Finally, midimalist bedrooms involve layering decor with a clear focal point. Despite being more curated than maximalist spaces, they still embrace personal decor and art. Layers of texture and detail are used to add depth to a neutral color palette. A prominent element, such as a large framed tapestry, can serve as the main focal point, flanked by complementary pieces like sconces, adding character without overwhelming the viewer. Accessories are intentionally edited; a single sculptural lamp, a vase with fresh flowers, or a well-worn book can hold significant visual weight. Art pieces are chosen strategically, often with a single strong piece displayed with ample space around it, allowing both the artwork and the observer to appreciate it fully. #MidimalistDesign #BedroomDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #CuratedSpaces #NeutralColorPalette #LayeredDecor #ColorPops #TraditionalModernBlend #HomeSanctuary

Naomi Coe, founder of California-based design studio Little Crown Interiors, led the creation of a luxurious and functional nursery for real estate moguls in Beverly Hills. The 275-square-foot space was transformed into a "cozy, luxurious, and girly" environment for their new daughter, blending existing pieces with modern and traditional elements. The design process began with the client's request to incorporate a cherished Edra sofa, which served as a focal point around which the color palette of whites, pinks, and bronze accents was built. A key aspect of Coe's design philosophy for nurseries is ensuring the baby's crib is placed in a safe and central location. For this project, a Nursery Works crib, chosen for its all-acrylic construction, was positioned on the back wall opposite the sofa. This selection introduced a modern touch that harmonized with the home's traditional architectural features, while also contributing to an open and airy feel within the room. Blush hues and diverse textural elements were integral to achieving the desired aesthetic. Notable additions included a custom Kifu Paris changing table and a striking Alexander McQueen-designed rug. The rug, described by Coe as the centerpiece, introduced a whimsical element characteristic of a nursery while maintaining sophistication through subtle black accents, fulfilling the client's desire for an elegant yet playful space. To further enhance the room's traditional aspects and leverage its architectural features, Coe and her team looked to the ceiling. They collaborated with Rebel Walls to customize a wallpaper design that would fit the high, inset ceiling, creating a distinctive statement piece. The chosen color and pattern added a new dimension to the room, drawing the eye upward and contributing to the overall dreamy and curated atmosphere of the nursery. The project successfully combined practicality with high-end design, delivering a personalized and elegant space for the new family. #NurseryDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #BeverlyHills #LittleCrownInteriors #HomeDecor #FeminineDesign #ModernLuxury #ResidentialDesign

In 2017, Snarkitecture and Gufram collaborated on the 'Broken' series, which featured mirrors and a bench with frames that appeared stone-like but were actually made of polyurethane and coated in concrete-looking Guflac paint. This innovative use of materials created an ambiguous mix of hard appearance and unexpected softness in their initial collection. Now, the Italian radical design brand Gufram and the experimental New York architecture and design studio Snarkitecture have revisited this collection, introducing a new edition of furniture in a pastel pink shade. The inspiration for this new color came from classic bubblegum, chosen to add a fresh layer of playfulness to the 'Broken' series. This specific shade of pink was meticulously developed over the last year in close collaboration with the Gufram team. The newly colored 'Broken' bench by Snarkitecture for Gufram and the 'Broken' mirror are central to this updated collection. This pink furniture collection was specifically created for a special display at K11 Musea in Hong Kong. K11 Musea, inaugurated in 2019 by Adrian Cheng, serves as both a retail and art venue. For its annual 'Art Karnival' event, Gufram exclusively presented an immersive, all-pink showcase to debut this new color palette for their collaboration with Snarkitecture. The event provided a unique platform to highlight the playful and innovative nature of the revisited collection. Accompanying the full-sized pink furniture pieces, a collection of 'Guframini' was also launched in the same bubblegum pink shade. These 'Guframini' are miniature versions of some of Gufram’s most iconic radical design classics, including the 'Bocca' sofa and the 'Cactus' coat stand. These miniature versions were exclusively created for the K11 Musea event, further expanding the pink theme across their product range. Charley Vezza, Gufram’s global creative orchestrator, explained the choice of pink. He noted that Gufram had never previously released a product in this color. For the 'Broken' series, pink was a significant departure from Snarkitecture's usual black and white palette, signifying a deliberate and well-considered color choice. The decision to use pink was a simple yet bold one, encapsulated by the question, 'Pink… why not?' The collaboration highlights Gufram's legacy of radical design and Snarkitecture's experimental approach, demonstrating how a change in color can recontextualize and inject new life into an established collection. #Snarkitecture #Gufram #FurnitureDesign #PinkFurniture #RadicalDesign #ProductCollaboration #DesignExhibition #K11Musea #InteriorDesign

The selection of paint colors for a home can be a daunting task, as the chosen palette significantly influences the room's overall aesthetic and initial impression. The article offers professional advice from Joanna Gaines, a renowned design expert from Magnolia Network, on timeless paint colors that can alleviate this stress and maintain a fresh yet classic look. Gaines emphasizes the critical role of color in home design, recalling a personal anecdote where an unsuitable exterior paint choice resulted in an undesirable "highlighter yellow" outcome. This experience underscores her learned expertise in color selection, which she has since refined through her successful involvement with HGTV’s "Fixer Upper" and her popular decor brand, Magnolia. She has since compiled a list of dependable paint colors. The first recommendation is neutral whites, presented as an interior design staple. This shade, also favored by Jonathan Scott, offers a clean and calm backdrop, making it an ideal canvas for various furniture pieces and wall decor. Gaines suggests using white paint in high-traffic areas such as living rooms and kitchens. To avoid an overly bright or harsh effect, she specifically recommends neutral, creamy, and inviting white tones, citing "Shiplap" from her Magnolia collection as a prime example. Next, the article highlights botanical greens. These fresh spring shades are particularly effective when paired with predominantly white interiors, adding a vibrant touch. Gaines clarifies that the recommendation leans towards soft and natural green hues rather than bright lime greens. "Magnolia Green" and "Silverado Sage" are provided as suitable options, with the latter offering a darker tone. For those hesitant to commit to an entirely green room, she suggests incorporating the color through doors or accent walls, especially in bathrooms, for a subtle yet effective refresh. Finally, bold blues are featured as a popular choice in modern color palettes, especially for spaces like bedrooms. Gaines acknowledges that dark paint colors can be intimidating and may visually reduce the size of a room if not chosen carefully. However, blue shades are generally considered a safe and sophisticated option. She advises selecting blues with grayish undertones for an overall cool and calming effect. Examples from her Magnolia collection include "Weekend" and "Demo Day." These options provide a refined and tranquil pop of color without being excessively dark, contributing to a clean and composed atmosphere. #JoannaGaines #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #MagnoliaNetwork #TimelessDesign #NeutralWhites #BotanicalGreens #BoldBlues

Nina Takesh, a Los Angeles-based interior designer and founder of Nina Takesh Design, is celebrated for her ability to craft interiors that combine contemporary elegance with a global perspective. Her design approach is deeply influenced by her background as co-founder and former CEO of the luxury baby brand Petit Tresor, as well as her extensive experience designing homes both in the U.S. and internationally. This diverse experience has honed her instincts for balance, proportion, and meticulous detailing, which are evident in her visually striking and highly livable spaces. Takesh describes her signature style as a blend of refinement and warmth, aiming to create environments that envelop inhabitants in a sense of comfort, love, and a touch of mystery. She deliberately avoids cool colors and starkness, favoring warm tones that interact harmoniously to produce an inviting atmosphere. This pursuit of 'mystery' in design leads her to question fully open-concept layouts, which she believes reveal too much of a home’s aesthetic too quickly. Instead, she advocates for designs that incorporate pathways and distinct rooms, guiding visitors through a journey of discovery and maintaining an element of surprise. To achieve this sense of a journey, Takesh often modifies architectural elements like door openings, particularly in ranch-style homes where she might introduce arches to enhance visual interest. She emphasizes the importance of sightlines, ensuring that undesirable views—such as a toilet from a bathroom door—are concealed. A notable example of this technique is her use of a 'disappearing door,' flush with the wall and covered in wallpaper, to seamlessly integrate a powder room into a bar area, preserving the flow and intrigue of the space. Bold silhouettes and sculptural shapes are prominent features in Takesh’s work, inspired by her global travels and observations of intricate details in diverse settings, from Italian ornamental gates to patterns on clothing. She enjoys sourcing unique items from flea markets, which she finds to be rich hunting grounds for inspiration. A consistent design decision across her projects is the use of specific molding profiles, applied in a distinctly European manner, sometimes extending up and over ceilings to elevate a room. She also favors lower paneling in dining rooms to create an enveloping and warm ambiance. Her color palette frequently includes rust tones, often incorporated through mohair and silk fabrics, and natural materials like raffia and sisal for their warm, oatmeal hues. These natural textures are versatile and help to 'ground' high-end rooms, allowing for a juxtaposition of ornate and everyday elements, such as pairing an 18th-century armoire with an IKEA sisal rug. Greens and browns are also staples, chosen for their timeless, calming qualities that evoke nature. Takesh stresses that texture is paramount in her designs, aiming for at least six distinct textures—such as glass, marble, mohair, cashmere, wood, and metal—in a room to prevent flatness and provide variation in sheen. She has increasingly embraced the depth offered by contrasting polished with matte finishes. Takesh observes a growing willingness among clients to experiment with bolder design choices, moving away from past inhibitions. However, she points out a common design mistake: incorrect art placement. She insists that art in living spaces should be hung at eye level when seated on a sofa, rather than too high, to be properly appreciated. For her, true craftsmanship, visible in details like good paint and precise caulking, is what ultimately unifies and perfects a room’s aesthetic. #InteriorDesign #NinaTakesh #DesignPhilosophy #HomeDecor #LuxuryInteriors #TexturalDesign #ColorPalette #ArchitecturalDetails #VintageFurniture

Mia Jung, the New York–based interiors director at Kligerman Architecture & Design, shares her current inspirations through a curated flat lay. Jung describes her aesthetic as gravitating towards textiles that are "soft, delicate and tranquil," favoring understated yet masterfully crafted pieces over more ostentatious designs. Her mood board, envisioned for a "dream bedroom," celebrates individual materials and their purposeful provenance, reflecting a "quiet beauty" derived from dedicated craftsmanship. The assemblage showcases a variety of artfully executed bespoke styles and handmade designs, encompassing items from hand-blown tinted glass light fixtures to multi-tonal embroideries. Jung emphasizes a feeling of happiness and appreciation when observing these pieces, noting the extensive skill and thought invested in their creation. The detailed breakdown of her selections highlights 14 distinct items, each chosen for its unique contribution to the overall serene and sophisticated mood. Among her selections is a bespoke rug by Sabina Fay Braxton, admired for its dreamy look and feel, and its complex yet simple composition. A hand-silvered Murano glass sample for a Cloud Console by Mia Jung at Charles Burnand Gallery is noted for its remarkable control and technique. For fabrics, she includes Key West linen in 2002 by Sette, valued for its humble, natural quality and versatility, and the soft, subtle hand-woven alpaca chenille DW-149 bespoke fabric by Mitchell Denburg, which adds richness to upholstery. Lauren Hwang New York's Khadi Jute fabric in Stone is chosen as a fundamental natural fabric, serving as a background for layering. Additional fabric choices include Byram fabric in Juniper by Colefax and Fowler at Cowtan & Tout, which provides saturation and texture without being overpowering, and a custom embroidery by Lesage Intérieurs, appreciated for its handmade quality and ability to add depth. Lighting is represented by Cherry Bomb Pendants in White and Olive Green samples by Lindsey Adelman, described as soft, pastel, and star-like. For furniture, a Yarrow Cabinet in dyed parchment by Roman Thomas is highlighted for its beautiful color and simple form, allowing the material to shine. Decorative elements include a Living World églomisé panel in Peonies sample by Confluent Studios, which Jung suggests using as an art piece within furniture, and a custom surface art sample by Studio HK, featuring an ash rose-colored ombre plaster ideal for stunning walls. Finally, for floor coverings and hardware, she selects a mohair curtain in a custom colorway by FJ Hakimian for its wonderful weave and color, a GK Series crystal door knob by E.R. Butler & Co. for its feminine and crisp jewelry-like touch, and a light blue mohair carpet by FJ Hakimian, valued for its beautiful color absorption and interesting variations. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration #MaterialSelection #HandmadeDesigns #TextileArt #LuxuryInteriors #BespokeFurniture #Craftsmanship

This article details the transformative interior design project undertaken by Boca Raton interior designer Nikki Levy. Levy was tasked with injecting drama and interest into a newly constructed, fully furnished five-bedroom, five-bathroom home in Boca Raton. The unique challenge of this project was that all major furnishings and permanent fixtures, such as marble floors, had already been purchased or installed, leaving Levy to work with an existing foundation. Despite initial reservations about taking on such a project, Levy was drawn to the home's "fantastic bones" and its double curved staircase, which she saw as a dramatic focal point. Levy approached the project with a focus on cohesiveness and artistic integration, layering details to create unique and thoughtful spaces. In the kitchen, an artist meticulously mapped out a ceiling design inspired by wallpaper from the formal dining room, creating a textured, multi-directional pattern. The living room was enhanced with black metal wire wall hangings that provided a striking contrast against neutral walls and furniture. For the family room, faux finish painters were employed to create a textural wall finish, complemented by a barn door with a graphic vibe leading to the music room. A significant part of the transformation centered on the dramatic double stairwell. Levy further enhanced its elegance by adding custom design benches with a dusty gold base and velvet shagreen-esque cushions at the base. The walls of the lower staircase were adorned with an array of brass and silver metal bowls, creating a unique visual impact upon entering the home. The client's husband's office was personalized with an ombré wall effect, transitioning from gray to white, symbolizing the Philadelphia skyline, his hometown. A key client request was a special bar that could fit into a three-foot space without a traditional sink. Levy designed a cold inlay bar with rich wood tones and a HydroFaucet that chills, sparkles, and boils water, ingeniously incorporating a single drain to provide full functionality. Near the formal dining area, metal flowers welded together and whitewashed with raw metal peeking through were used to add interest. The dining room also features a vertical display of wine bottles in a glass case spanning almost the entire wall. Levy also championed the prominent placement of a large, colorful portrait of a woman, which the client had initially considered hiding, making it a central design element flanked by oversized lamps and a self-patterned table. The master bedroom was transformed with a Phillip Jeffries wallpaper made from woven banana bark and paper, featuring a bold stripe pattern with a wabi-sabi flair. This textured wall-covering brought the existing furniture, including a velvet headboard, to life, creating an oasis-like atmosphere. The master bathroom features a "wow factor" with a wall design by Alex Turco, which combines photographic, digital images, and hand-applied resin to create an organic, polished marble-like structure. An Arteriors chandelier with a fringed, unstructured vibe and deep colors complements the space. Levy's design philosophy, shaped by her South African origins and experience with increasingly sophisticated and international clients in Florida, emphasizes connecting with clients to create personalized and unique homes, often utilizing 3D imaging technology for previews. Nikki Levy Interiors has received multiple Houzz Awards and participated in the 2022 Kips Bay Decorator Showhouse. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #LuxuryHomes #BocaRaton #NikkiLevyInteriors #CustomDesign #ArtisticInteriors #TexturalDesign #DecoratorShowhouse

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

Interior designer Bee Osborn shares the story and design choices behind her idyllic country cottage in the Cotswolds, a home that became a permanent family residence during the pandemic. The article details the extensive, yet thoughtful, renovations undertaken to transform a tired three-bedroom property into a warm, stylish, and functional living space. Osborn emphasizes the use of texture, natural materials, and practical space-saving solutions throughout the house. The renovation began with the property itself, which had been in the same family for years and was in need of updating. Osborn, initially looking for a rental, stumbled upon the cottage and felt an immediate connection, likening it to her childhood home. She purchased and moved into the cottage with her builders, who started gutting and rewiring the property immediately. The transformation of the kitchen is highlighted, where a tiny original kitchen was expanded by integrating an accessible barn. Osborn decided to maintain the barn's original sunken level and natural walls, creating a unique feature. Reclaimed materials were extensively used, including an old kitchen floor for the roof and a stripped-down original Crittall window that now forms doors. The flooring in the kitchen is 'Barnwood Floor' from Osborn Interiors, and the cabinets were custom-made by a local joiner with a natural, raw wood finish. High-end pendant lights from Pinch were a significant investment, balancing the rustic elements with smart design. The kitchen also features a TV snug with L-shaped seating made from repurposed fence planks, equipped with built-in USB plugs, and a mirrored TV from Picture Frame TV with a custom-painted frame. The dining room boasts a large, custom-made pendant from Hadeda, serving as a focal point within a nine-circuit lighting scheme that creates subtle pools of light. The main attraction is a resin and 10-year-old oak table, meticulously crafted over four months, which has proven both beautiful and practical. The Blue Room, inspired by an inky off-black wall in a previous office, features a sofabed custom-made to fit the space and contrasting with the dark wall color. Despite planning permission issues for French windows, a large window was installed. Linen fabrics, leather, and wicker are used throughout, reflecting Osborn's preference for natural materials. The living room maintains its original fireplace, with versatile hampers and baskets serving as storage and side tables. The paint color in this room is a custom mix, and artwork is sourced from antique markets. The master suite, initially a small room with limited space, underwent a significant redesign. Osborn removed the fireplace and stained glass window to reorient the bed and create space for an en-suite bathroom. The bedroom connects visually with the downstairs through wood-clad ceilings and walls from a reclamation center, and hidden cupboards are integrated throughout. The en-suite bathroom includes a second-hand eBay bath and discreetly placed loo. Expensive Porta Romana lights and Anthropologie wardrobe handles add luxurious touches. All bedrooms feature 100% linen sheets for a relaxed aesthetic. Finally, an outdoor 'Pod' by Sandman Homes, measuring 3m x 5m, is made from reclaimed wood, features a wildflower roof, an electric wood burner, and collected baskets, providing an additional charming space. Osborn's design philosophy prioritizes natural materials, thoughtful construction, and practical solutions, creating a harmonious and personalized home. Osborn's work can be further explored through her Instagram and website, OsbornInteriors.com. #InteriorDesign #CotswoldsCottage #HomeRenovation #NaturalMaterials #SustainableDesign #ReclaimedWood #SpaceSavingSolutions #CountryLiving #BeeOsborn

Michelle Gage, creative director and founder of her eponymous Philadelphia-based firm, approaches each room as a blank canvas with the potential for rich, artful design, drawing inspiration from Renaissance paintings. Her firm’s work spans from jewel-toned and moody to bright and cheerful. Gage and her senior designer, Nicole Flynn Mullany, created a mood board reflecting this versatility with a spring-forward feel, incorporating materials frequently used in their projects. The collection features lush, durable velvets and a variety of motifs. Floral patterns appear in a metallic white wallcovering and a deep blue Liberty upholstery fabric. The mood board also includes playful elements like a leopard-print rug, teal-saturated vellum, and fruit-hued tile. Gage describes the theme as “our favorite things,” emphasizing how personal accents contribute to unique interiors. This is evident in quirky objects such as a vintage portrait photograph, an ornithological letter opener, and a matchbook from a Parisian restaurant. Gage's signature style is defined by velvet upholstery, whimsical wallpaper, and occasionally burl. Among the selections presented are a vintage shell dish filled with brooches, and the Elizabeth Tape in Blueberry by The Vale London, chosen for its jewelry-like beading. A walnut veneer in Lindsey by Made Goods is a firm staple, frequently incorporated into projects. Lacquered Teal Vellum by Julian Chichester is another recurring material. The Lady Kristina Rose Vintage Velvet Fabric in Lapis by Liberty of London at Fabricut is planned for a living room sofa, showcasing a bold pattern. A unique talon letter opener and Floriane Linen in Golden by Alice Sergeant Textiles, used for a pillow, add to the personalized feel. Pink Dahlia Ceramic Tile by Zia Tile offers vibrant color options, while the Dottie Rug in Yellows on Cream by Temple Studio brings a playful chartreuse pop. The Maria Wallpaper in Metallic White by Voutsa is highlighted as a long-sought-after element that Gage finally integrated into a project. A matchbook from La Fantaisie in Paris, a Brass Dachshund, and the Mufasa Woven Wilton in Bronze by Distinctive Carpets & Rugs—a leopard print—further personalize the collection. Anni Stripe Fabric in Rose by Imogen Heath features preferred berry tones. Breccia Capraia Marble by Artistic Tile is presented as a classic choice for a fireplace mantel, and Loire Bullion Fringe in Merlot by Samuel & Sons offers an unexpected color for a traditional detail. Finally, a black-and-white portrait reflects Gage's preference for art featuring strangers, and Snazzy Citron Velvet by CR Laine is noted for its durability and timelessness. #InteriorDesign #MichelleGage #MoodBoard #HomeDecor #Textiles #Wallcoverings #VintageFinds #ColorPalette #PatternMixing

The article highlights singer-songwriter Marina Diamandis's bedroom as a prime example of modern maximalism with a distinct Victorian influence, signaling a revival in dramatic, storybook interior trends. Marina's bedroom showcases a fusion of 19th-century design elements with bright, contemporary patterns, creating a look described as feminine, chic, and highly inspirational. Key features of her space include a four-poster bed with scalloped posters and lush canopies, intricate floral wallpaper that extends from the walls to the headboard, and crisp white bedsheets, complemented by a gold wall mirror. This design approach, dubbed '21st century meets grandma-core' by interior expert Andrew Seed, emphasizes a celebration of florals, warm colors, and draping to create a personality-filled room. Design experts advocate for this maximalist trend, noting its ability to feel both trendy and timeless through a thoughtful mix of antiques and contemporary sensibilities. To replicate Marina's aesthetic, the article suggests starting with a statement bed. An upholstered headboard in a rich fabric is recommended, with further customization through bespoke, handmade designs. Incorporating a curved silhouette or waved headboard is advised to introduce an interesting, avant-garde element that can contrast with more traditional bed linens. Following the bed, wallpaper plays a crucial role in achieving this look. The advice is to invest in bespoke prints or textiles, supporting independent designers who specialize in handprinted designs or have a history with botanical and floral printmaking. The emphasis is on quality designs to ensure that the maximalist execution is styled rather than chaotic. The article stresses the importance of careful consideration when selecting wallpaper, focusing on both pattern preference and material quality to achieve a cohesive and sophisticated result. Finally, the article suggests accessorizing the bed to enhance the vintage, maximalist feel. A four-poster bed with drapes is presented as a significant investment that can imbue a sense of regal, vintage magic. For those seeking a more accessible alternative, a bed skirt is recommended as a simple and affordable way to add a decorative flourish without requiring a new bed base. This approach allows for the creation of a layered and textured environment that echoes the charm and character of Marina's vintage-inspired bedroom. #MarinaDiamandis #MaximalistBedroom #VintageInspiredDesign #VictorianInteriors #FourPosterBed #FloralWallpaper #BedroomDecor #InteriorTrends #CelebrityStyle

This blog post showcases the transformation of a new-construction townhouse in Manayunk, Philadelphia, into a vibrant and playful living space through the application of bold colors and patterns. Villanova-based interior designer Michelle Gage spearheaded the project, which commenced after a client in her mid-30s sought to personalize her unadorned, approximately 2,000-square-foot home. Gage's design approach emphasized eclecticism, color, and intricate patterns, aligning seamlessly with the client's vivacious style. The design process began remotely, with the client providing listing photos to Gage, who then conceptualized the interior before an in-person visit. The project spanned a year, culminating in December 2017, and focused on creating distinct moods for different areas of the house. The open-concept first floor was designed as a lively entertainment hub, featuring a teal velvet sofa as a central element in the living room. This focal point was complemented by a brass-and-marble coffee table and a neutral leather chair, balancing the sofa's bright hue. Hanging prints were strategically placed to act as "color vehicles," harmonizing with the sofa and introducing subtle pink accents. In the dining area, a vibrant blue patterned wallpaper was chosen to create a cohesive flow with the rest of the main floor. To optimize space, a round CB2 pedestal table was incorporated, paired with leather bucket chairs for textural contrast. The kitchen area was also integrated into this colorful scheme through trendy wall art, connecting the various communal spaces. The second level of the townhouse saw a spare bedroom reimagined as a dressing room, a suggestion from the client. Gage enhanced this space with a floral wallpaper from York Wallcoverings and included a daybed to accommodate guests. This area, while incorporating pattern, offered a distinct functional purpose within the home. For the third-floor master suite, Gage opted for a more subdued palette, primarily using grays and neutrals. This decision aimed to create a private oasis for the couple, offering a serene contrast to the vibrant lower levels. The master bedroom, designed to merge masculine and feminine styles, features a custom-built and upholstered headboard from Chairloom, necessitated by the original bed's inability to fit upstairs. Playful mint green sconces add a touch of personality to this otherwise calm retreat. The overall design effectively illustrates how strategic use of color, pattern, and personalized elements can infuse a new-construction property with character and warmth. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #Manayunk #ColorfulInteriors #MichelleGage #TownhouseDesign #EclecticStyle #PatternedWallpaper #CustomFurniture

Matilda Goad, a 31-year-old designer and creative consultant, has become a prominent figure in the intersection of fashion and interiors. Her designs, characterized by eccentric flourishes, rainbow colors, scalloped edges, and cane detailing, are highly popular on platforms like Instagram, where she boasts over 62,000 followers. Goad has also established herself as a go-to homeware expert within the fashion industry, counting notable figures such as creative director Alex Eagle and designer Margherita Missoni among her admirers. Her strong connections to the fashion world are evident through her familial and social circles, including her cousin, Vogue journalist Plum Sykes, her best friend and Shrimps founder Hannah Weiland (whose 2018 wedding Goad styled), and her friend and neighbor, podcaster and author Pandora Sykes. During a tour of her recently renovated London home with her three-month-old baby, Domino, Goad emphasizes her keen attention to detail in her decorating approach. She explains that her decorating style mirrors her fashion sense, prioritizing detailing, accessories, textures, and colors. Examples of her meticulous design choices include vibrant red grout on white pantry tiles, cut-out cane diamond paneling in her bedroom wardrobes, and French bistro-style half-curtains by her breakfast table. Goad's journey into interiors was somewhat serendipitous. She began her career in fashion, working for Vogue Russia, Teen Vogue, and Wonderland magazine, and later assisting photographer and stylist Venetia Scott. Her transition to interiors occurred when she struggled to find an affordable lampshade with specific design elements. This led her to customize lampshades by adding braiding and eventually having them professionally made. This pursuit of visual perfection culminated in the launch of her eponymous brand in 2016. The brand, which initially featured a best-selling range of lampshades, has since expanded to include cutlery, napkins, planters, and other items, with prices ranging from £24 to £300. Her products are retailed at prominent stores like Liberty and Matchesfashion.com, and she also maintains a global customer base through her website. Goad is mindful of not overproducing, aiming for a concise collection where every item serves a strong purpose while also being aesthetically pleasing. In May 2019, Goad and her husband, Tom Corbett-Winder, moved into their three-story terrace house in northwest London. The renovation, which took four months, was managed by Tom's project management company. The outcome is a colorful and contemporary space that seamlessly blends practicality with style, embodying Goad's whimsical aesthetic while remaining a functional family home. The home features several clever design solutions: a reeded drawer cabinet in the sitting room, painted a vibrant betel-nut red with Beata Heuman bow handles, offers deep storage for children's toys. The denim-upholstered banquette in the kitchen incorporates hidden plug sockets and built-in storage. Japanese-style bar stools swing out from a reinforced breakfast bar to maximize space. While the design includes feminine touches, Goad ensures a balanced aesthetic by incorporating elements that add a subtle toughness, preventing the overall look from being overly sweet. For instance, her pink bedroom is balanced by scuffed wooden floorboards and a four-poster wooden bedframe, an eBay find that she personalized with blue rings using leftover tester pots. Goad draws inspiration from diverse sources, ranging from her mother's appreciation for chintz to the art of Swedish artist Hilma af Klint. She actively shares her design knowledge through her monthly newsletter, the Dispatch, where she recommends suppliers and sells vintage finds. Despite the polished appearance of her home, Goad considers it an ongoing project, constantly adding and adjusting elements, believing that a home evolves over time. She likens small changes, such as swapping a lampshade, to putting together a new outfit, emphasizing that these adjustments can refresh a room. Ultimately, she believes that the feeling a home evokes prepares one to engage with the outside world. Matilda also offers several practical tips for achieving a stylish home: repurpose luxurious fabrics for smaller impactful areas, use misspelt words or designer names in eBay searches for bargains, follow accounts like @haines_collection for affordable fabric offcuts, don't hesitate to use placeholder items until the perfect piece is found, and introduce unexpected furniture pieces into rooms to make them feel less sterile. She also recommends several antique dealers on Instagram: @oldalbion for vintage gems, @thehomebothy for decorative antiques, and @vintageonthevine for Goadesque chintzy pieces. #MatildaGoad #InteriorDesign #LondonHome #HomeDecor #FashionAndInteriors #DesignTips #ColorfulInteriors #Renovation #HomeStyling