An interior designer shares 11 things she always makes sure she has in her home

Cathy Hobbs, a celebrity interior designer and owner of Cathy Hobbs Design Recipes, outlined ten design elements and styles she avoids in her own living space. These preferences are based on functionality, aesthetic longevity, and the potential to create clutter or a dated appearance. Her insights provide guidance for those looking to create a timeless and uncluttered home environment. One key recommendation is to steer clear of artificial dried flowers, as they can make a modern decor scheme feel old-fashioned. Instead, Hobbs suggests incorporating artificial palm leaves, grasses, or succulents for a more contemporary touch of greenery. Similarly, when it comes to artwork, she advises against framing inexpensive posters, which can diminish the overall aesthetic of a room. For those on a budget, she recommends opting for wall hangings or framed photographs over canvas art. Hobbs also avoids acrylic and plastic furniture or accessories, despite their affordability. These materials are prone to cracking and can develop a milky appearance over time, reducing their visual appeal and durability. She suggests seeking more robust alternatives, particularly materials suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, to ensure longevity and maintain a sophisticated look. Gallery walls composed of many small, eclectic pieces are another item Hobbs excludes from her designs. While they can seem like an easy way to fill a blank wall, such arrangements often create visual clutter and fail to properly anchor a space. Her preference is for larger, bolder statement pieces that can command attention and provide a more cohesive design. This principle extends to general home accessories; Hobbs suggests selecting fewer, larger decor items to ground a room and prevent visual distraction, rather than numerous small items that can contribute to a cluttered feel. When organizing bookshelves, Hobbs advises against overfilling them with books and trinkets. She advocates for a minimalist approach, suggesting that leaving some shelves empty can enhance the overall aesthetic and create a sense of spaciousness. In home offices, she stresses the importance of clearing clutter, particularly when the workspace is not in use. She recommends choosing desks with drawers or using bins to neatly stow away work-related items, ensuring the space remains tidy and functional. Long hallways are identified as prime opportunities for design, which Hobbs believes should not be wasted. She incorporates design elements, such as mirrors, to elongate these spaces and compensate for the typical lack of windows and natural light. Mirrors can effectively make narrow hallways feel wider and brighter. Hobbs also strongly advises against wall-to-wall carpeting, despite its ability to create a seamless look. She argues that wall-to-wall carpeting often signals an outdated style and suggests that hardwood flooring is a superior choice, preferred by most homebuyers for its modern appeal and ease of maintenance. Finally, Hobbs recommends avoiding bright and trendy colors for main furniture pieces, such as sofas. While such colors can be fun, they tend to go out of style quickly. Her preference is for neutral foundational colors like gray and cream, which are timeless and allow for greater flexibility in updating decor through accessories rather than replacing major furniture items. This approach ensures that a home's core furnishings remain stylish and versatile over time. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTips #HomeStyling #ClutterFree #NeutralPalette #HardwoodFlooring #MinimalistDesign #InteriorDesignerAdvice

Jennifer Walter, a principal designer and owner of Folding Chair Design Co. with over 13 years of experience, identifies ten specific decor items and design styles she would avoid in her own home. Her recommendations aim to help individuals navigate the overwhelming number of home decor trends and make informed investment decisions. Walter advises against printed canvases featuring low-quality photos or pop art, suggesting that many of these pieces resemble stock images or mass reprints, which have declined in popularity. Instead, she recommends sourcing reasonably priced, framed artwork from online platforms such as Etsy, Minted, and Society6, as these pieces offer a more elevated aesthetic. Regarding structural elements, Walter expresses a dislike for barn doors, despite their prevalence in modern-farmhouse aesthetics. She notes that while they are often used to cover large walls or close off spaces, they do not universally suit all types of rooms and can appear out of place in non-farmhouse settings. The designer also considers Tuscan-style kitchens to be dated, characterized by elements like pink terra-cotta floor tiles, distinctive tile patterns behind range hoods, and intricate iron accents. As an alternative, Walter suggests using artisan tiles, such as Zellige tile, which are handmade, come in various colors, and offer an age-old look while aligning with modern design sensibilities. When it comes to personal photographs, Walter suggests avoiding displaying large, prominent arrays of standard school or family photos as a room's focal point. She recommends more artistic presentations, such as abstract or less obvious photos blown up and framed together in a hallway, or a black-and-white image of a pet used as focal art in a bedroom. Halogen floor lamps, particularly torchiere-style ones, are another item Walter would exclude due to their potential fire hazard, as their 500-watt bulbs can reach high temperatures. She advocates for modern floor lamps that incorporate current trends, such as rattan or velvet shades, or sculptural designs that function as both lighting and artistic statements. Walter also cautions against mixing disparate flooring materials and synthetic wood finishes throughout a home, as this can create a disjointed appearance. She advises maintaining a consistent flooring material and finish, or, if replacing all flooring is not feasible, choosing complementary materials like large-format tiles or carpet. Matching furniture sets, particularly for bedrooms and kitchens, are identified as a missed opportunity to inject personality into a space. Walter prefers selecting individual pieces to create a more unique and varied aesthetic, noting the availability of stain-resistant fabrics for kitchen and dining chairs that allow for upholstered options. Furthermore, metal window treatments are deemed undesirable due to their sterile appearance. Walter suggests using soft woven shades or other textured options available from online blinds companies or through designers, as these alternatives can enhance a window's appearance without the high cost of custom treatments. Lastly, wooden signs with generic slogans such as "home sweet home" or "live, laugh, love" are outdated. Instead, Walter recommends sourcing vintage signs from platforms like eBay or Etsy, or opting for diverse artwork to fill wall spaces creatively. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #JenniferWalter #DecoratingTips #Furniture #Flooring #WindowTreatments #ArtSelection #TuscanKitchen

The article delves into the common elements consistently found in the homes of interior designers, offering insights into their approach to creating aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces. It emphasizes that designers prioritize small details and well-curated items over specific furniture pieces. The piece draws upon the expertise of four interior design professionals: Shay Holland, Malka Helft, David Samuel Ko, and Vy Truong, who share their perspectives on essential home items. One key aspect highlighted is the importance of quality cleaning products. Shay Holland notes that designers value products that streamline daily cleaning routines, citing items like Magic Erasers for minor scuffs and high-end vacuum cleaners such as Dyson for comprehensive cleaning. The visual appeal and practical design of cleaning tools are also considered significant, with the suggestion that sleekly designed alternatives to expensive brands are readily available. Another essential category is well-crafted kitchen essentials. Holland explains that interior designers often invest in aesthetically pleasing and functional kitchen tools, from wooden spatulas to stylish espresso makers. Items displayed on countertops are particularly important, as they contribute to the overall visual harmony of the kitchen space, demonstrating that practicality can coexist with beauty. High-quality bedding is also a staple in interior designers' homes. Holland emphasizes the preference for exceptional linens, particularly sheets that resist pilling and bunching. While acknowledging that thread count can indicate quality, she points out that designers focus more on the overall feel and durability of the bedding rather than strictly adhering to thread count metrics. Recommendations for high-quality bed sheets are also provided. The article further stresses the significance of good lighting. Interior designers understand that lighting is not merely a functional necessity but also a crucial element that impacts mood and well-being. They prioritize adequate lighting sources throughout the home and often replace standard builder-grade fixtures with more stylish options. The choice of light bulbs, such as classic incandescent or energy-efficient LED, is also mentioned as a factor in enhancing a home's ambiance. Malka Helft identifies quality table linens, such as cloth napkins, as a distinctive touch in designers' homes. She views cloth napkins as a sophisticated addition for hosting, capable of elevating dining experiences with their interesting patterns and designs. Bathroom accessories are also deemed important for creating ambiance, with Helft suggesting that designers frequently update items like soap dispensers, wastebaskets, and tissue box holders to maintain freshness and visual interest, regardless of whether they are made from leather, metal, or glass. White towels are another consistent feature, according to Helft, who describes them as creating a polished, retreat-like atmosphere. Despite their tendency to show dirt, white towels are noted for being easy to clean and resistant to fading. The article also touches upon the use of bleach for maintaining their cleanliness. Catchall trays are mentioned by David Samuel Ko as practical yet chic organizational tools found on nightstands, entryways, or home office desks. These trays serve to organize various items, such as keys, lighters, measuring tapes, and pens, and are also useful for guests, acting as a curated 'junk drawer.' Vy Truong highlights the presence of large architecture or design coffee table books in interior designers' homes. These books function both as decorative elements and sources of inspiration, offering visual comfort through their colorful splashes, harmonizing patterns, and distinct designs. Lastly, sculptural vases, particularly those of varying sizes, are another common item. Truong explains that these bold and unexpected vases add visual interest to any room, aligning with the home’s overall theme, tone, or design. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTips #HomeEssentials #InteriorStyling #KitchenDesign #BedroomDesign #BathroomDecor #HomeOrganization

This article explores the favorite home items of various interior designers, offering insights into products they would repeatedly purchase and tips on how to incorporate them into personal living spaces. Kimberly Bevan from Bevan Interiors highlights the Design Within Reach Rice Paper Shade, praising its ambient glow, large-scale buoyancy despite its size, and versatility across modern and traditional settings, all at an accessible price point. She advises light feather dusting for maintenance. Emily Vaughan of Emily Vaughan Interiors recommends the BlueStar Range, a professional-grade appliance acquired during a 1952 home renovation. She values its open burners for even high-temperature cooking, easy-to-clean cast iron cooktop, and capacity for two full-size sheet pans, noting that colorful appliance options could enhance cohesion in a kitchen. Shelagh Conway from Triple Heart Design values the Maison Distressed Black Oak 4-Door Buffet Sideboard as a substantial dresser that provides a grounding element in her large bedroom, adapting to various design changes. She suggests embracing black in bedrooms for a calming effect, often mixing it with other wood tones for textural depth. Byron Risdon of Byron Risdon Interior Design Studio endorses West Elm Luxe Chenille Throws for their softness, luxury, and durability, making them suitable for both guests and daily use. He looks for comfort, softness, and durability in throws, suggesting a size that covers the body without being overly large. Ariel Richardson, lead designer at ASR Design Studio, praises the Miele Washer and Dryer for its compact, stackable design, efficient cleaning cartridges, and ventless drying technology, which allows for flexible placement. She emphasizes the environmental and clothing benefits of front-load washers. Tamara Honey of House of Honey finds the Disco Ball to be an instant mood transformer, recommending its placement near a window to enhance the magical effect of glimmering lights. Aimee Meisgeier from AM Interior Design favors the Beta Modular Sofa for its deep comfort, modular customization, and corduroy fabric, which is both cozy and practical for pet owners. She advises measuring the space and defining needs before purchasing a modular sofa. Linette Dai of Linette Dai Design cherishes the CB2 Muse Smoked Coupe Glass for its chic design and modern aesthetic, using it for both cocktails and sparkling water. She suggests pairing coupe glasses with bite-sized snacks in sculptural dishes. She also appreciates the CB2 Suspend Walnut & Marble Media Console for its natural elements, beautiful walnut veneer, marble top, and practical storage. She advocates for minimalist styling of console tops with essential, functional decor. Azali Kassum of Azali Kassum Design collects Victoria Morris's ceramics, specifically the Large Gourd Vase in Ivory, for its unique handmade flair and sculptural elegance. She advises hand-washing ceramics with gentle soap and air-drying in the sun. Gina Gutierrez from Gina Rachelle Design recommends the Joss & Main Tellis Marble Picture Frame for its classic and timeless appeal, versatility in size and finish, and ability to fill empty spaces. She applies the “rule of three” for styling. Sarah Rinehart Fleischer of SRF Interiors finds joy in Dana Bell's painting, “Dancing on Yellow, 2001,” for its bold colors and perfect fit in an awkward wall space. She suggests keeping room measurements handy for online art purchases. Lorna Gross, CEO of LORNA GROSS Interior Design, finds the Jo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin Home Scented Candle to be a constant source of calm. She advises keeping candle lids on to prevent dust and burn marks, and lighting kitchen candles after meals. Nadia Watts of Nadia Watts Interior Design highlights the Kartell Pilastro Stool for its unique lines, interesting shape, and multi-functional use as a side table, footstool, or extra seating. She prefers furniture that is both artistic and functional. Brianna Untener of Brianna Scott Interiors loves the Serena & Lily Milo Alpaca Throw for its softness, luxury, and year-round coziness. She prefers displaying throws on chairs to visually unify a room. Shauna Glenn of Shauna Glenn Design trusts the Annie Selke Paint Chip Multi Hand Micro-Hooked Wool Rug for its durability in high-traffic areas and ease of cleaning. She emphasizes regular vacuuming and shaking of wool rugs. Joni Burden of J. Banks Design favors the Gabby Laura Swivel Chair for its timeless elegance, compact size, comfort, and versatility. She appreciates swivel chairs in family rooms for their adaptability. Isabel Ladd of Isabel Ladd Interiors consistently uses Palmer Green Paint by Benjamin Moore, describing it as a deep, rich green with yellow undertones that acts as a neutral in maximalist aesthetics. She recommends using tinted primer and considering the desired ambiance when choosing green paint. Ariel Richardson also champions Ruggable Rugs for their durability, washability, and stain-repelling properties, making them ideal for households with pets and children. She advises washing on a delicate cycle with cold water and low heat drying. Abby Gruman of Abby Leigh Designs chose the Artistic Frame Studio Side Chair for its cane and wood contrast, modern flair, and traditional essence, valuing it for family gatherings. She notes the current trend of cane in unexpected furniture pieces. Laetitia Laurent of Laure Nell Interiors transformed her family room with Phillip Jeffries 9190: Beat Wallpaper, creating a living mural that unifies the space and encourages creative endeavors. She suggests regular dusting and occasional wiping for wallpaper maintenance. Alex Yeske of Alex Yeske Interiors appreciates The Rush House Original Rug, a natural fiber seagrass rug, for its warmth, texture, softness, and customizable, replaceable squares. She recommends vacuuming on a lighter setting and blotting stains for natural fiber rugs. Marie Cloud of Indigo Pruitt Design Studio values the Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine for its combination of functionality and quality, including an integrated burr grinder and steam wand. She suggests creating a dedicated coffee station. Paige Blodgett Scher of Paige Blodgett Interiors painted her entryway with Bancha Paint by Farrow & Ball to define and warm the small space, praising its yellow undertones and dramatic effect. She advises choosing darker shades to add depth to small areas. Cynthia Lananh of Cynthia Lananh treasures the Le Labo Santal 26 Classic Candle for its neutral, sophisticated scent and elevated packaging. She suggests pairing candles with design-savvy accessories. Brittany Hakimfar of Far Studio considers the Zip Water HydroTap Celsius All-in-One Water Filter Faucet her most beloved appliance for its instant still, sparkling, hot, and cold water delivery in luxurious finishes. She recommends classic chrome or matte black for contemporary kitchens and living brass for traditional ones. Finally, Lina Galvão of Curated Nest loves the Scout Design Studio Promenade Sofa for its approachable style, sculptural arms, comfort, and forgiving fabric. She notes that for modern, sculptural sofas, one might forgo pillows to let the shape shine. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignerPicks #HomeFurnishings #DecoratingTips #ApplianceRecommendations #Textiles #ArtAndAccessories #PaintColors

Brooke Lang, a principal designer at Brooke Lang Design, outlines twelve specific items and design trends she would avoid in her personal living space, offering practical reasons and alternative suggestions. Her insights aim to guide individuals in making more informed home design choices, moving beyond fleeting trends towards more timeless, functional, and personal aesthetics. Lang advises against an excessive use of precious antiques, suggesting that while vintage pieces can add character, too many can make a space feel dated. She recommends integrating vintage items sparingly, mixing them with modern decor to achieve a balanced look. Open kitchen shelving is another element Lang would forego, citing its impracticality due to dust accumulation and the need for perfectly uniform dinnerware. Instead, she recommends painting or updating existing cabinetry hardware for a kitchen refresh. Acrylic furniture, in Lang's view, belongs in the 1960s due to its lack of durability and inability to be easily repaired when scratched or cracked. She suggests opting for more timeless materials like wood or marble for furniture. Harsh lighting is also on her list of avoided items, as it can make a home feel sterile and unwelcoming. Lang advocates for warm lighting, recommending soft white or incandescent bulbs to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Wall hangings featuring inspirational quotes or general text are another design choice Lang dismisses, categorizing them as a modern-farmhouse trend that should be left behind. She encourages selecting more original artwork, such as landscape prints, vintage oil paintings, or colorful abstract pieces, to add contrast and personality to a room. Overly distressed furniture, a hallmark of the modern-farmhouse style, is also out. Lang suggests incorporating natural textures and raw finishes, like jute, bouclé, and linen, for a contemporary feel. Paper window shades are deemed acceptable only for temporary solutions during a move, but Lang advises investing in more sophisticated and affordable window treatments to elevate a space. She particularly notes that high-quality curtain rods and rings can significantly enhance the appearance of curtains. Small living-room rugs are another no-go, as they can unbalance a room. Lang emphasizes that a rug should serve as an anchor, large enough to fit at least two legs of each piece of furniture or extend 6 inches beyond the sofa on each side. Matching furniture sets are seen as lacking character and individuality. Lang promotes eclectic decor, encouraging homeowners to mix and match pieces to reflect their personal style and to allow for greater flexibility in shopping. Tufted sofas, with their often bulky appearance and diamond or square patterns, are also discouraged. She recommends lighter, more fluid options like sculptural or curved sofas to create a more inviting and visually pleasing living area. Finally, shiplap, while having rustic charm, is considered overdone and impractical by Lang due to potential damage and repair difficulties. She suggests limewash paint as an alternative, offering dimension and an old-world, vintage aesthetic. Laminate flooring is another material she avoids, emphasizing that original hardwood floors, if present, should be refinished rather than replaced, as it's a manageable DIY project that adds value to a home. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #BrookeLang #HomeStyling #Antiques #KitchenDesign #LightingDesign #FurnitureChoices