For Rita Konig, interior design isn’t only about coherence and comfort — it should be a celebration of stuff

Rita Konig, a prominent figure in interior design, shares insights into her extensive career, emphasizing her approach to decoration and personal style. Growing up in the industry with her mother, Nina Campbell, Konig initially explored other career paths before finding her calling in interior design. Her early experiences included decorating a flat in Holland Park and later moving to the US, where she contributed to Domino magazine by curating shopping stories in various cities across America. Upon her return to London in 2012, Konig focused on building her decorating business, which now includes a team of four designers and a Chief Operating Officer. She also contributed a monthly column to House & Garden for several years. Konig identifies herself as a decorator rather than a designer, a distinction she attributes to her mother's influence and her belief that much of interior decoration involves embellishment. She argues that personal objects, memorabilia, and artwork are crucial in making a house feel like a home, advocating for their inclusion even over immediate paint choices. She highlights the importance of incorporating personal items to infuse a space with individuality and warmth, preventing it from resembling an impersonal display. Konig has also engaged in numerous collaborations throughout her career, including projects with The Lacquer Company, for which her Belle Rive tray is credited with inspiring a 'tray renaissance,' and upcoming collections with Schumacher and Officina. She recently launched her second online course with Create Academy, which focuses on the renovation of her own home, covering practical aspects like budgeting and the iterative nature of the design process, especially concerning joinery. She stresses the importance of allowing time for reflection and adjustments during renovations, noting that initial drawings often require modifications. Konig shares specific elements that are consistently present in her own home, such as artwork, objects, books, and a drinks tray, which she considers essential for making a place feel lived in. She recalls cherished items she brought with her to New York that continue to hold pride of place. Her approach to color has evolved over time, from vibrant sorbet hues in her first flat to more grounding ochres, tobacco browns, and burnt oranges in her current home. She views color as a unifying element in a room, citing the use of red to link different components in her living room. Konig also advocates for a 'hero fabric' in each room, around which other elements are coordinated, and suggests incorporating unexpected patterns, like a zebra print sofa, to add character. Regarding lighting, Konig advises simplifying circuits and utilizing a lighting designer to create different scenes for various times of day. She mentions Sally Storey's method of designing 'morning,' 'afternoon,' and 'evening' settings, and her use of integrated spot lighting with decorative pendants. For window treatments, she prefers sheer fabrics, sometimes paired with blackout blinds, for both aesthetic and practical reasons, noting their cost-effectiveness compared to traditional curtains. She also uses woven blinds from India for their ability to filter natural light. The article concludes with a curated list of Konig's preferred brands and suppliers across various categories, including antiques, rugs, wallpaper, glassware, books, bedlinen, towels, eiderdowns, blankets, lamps, and general home goods, offering readers a glimpse into her trusted resources for creating stylish and personalized interiors. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #RitaKonig #CareerHighlights #DesignPhilosophy #DecoratingTips #OnlineCourse #HomeRenovation

Rebecca Constable, an interior designer known for creating timeless and inviting homes that also accommodate daily life, recently launched Room by Room Interiors. This new venture offers ready-to-go design schemes, providing an accessible and affordable alternative for individuals seeking design assistance without the commitment of hiring a full-time designer. These schemes include comprehensive guidance, from key design principles to specific recommendations for paint colors, furniture, and accessories. Constable's design journey began after transitioning from a career in management consulting and project management at John Lewis. Following the birth of her children, she sought a more flexible profession, initially redesigning her own home and then assisting friends and family, which organically led to the growth of her interior design practice. She notes the significant overlap between project management and interior design, highlighting the organizational aspects crucial to both fields. Her personal home is characterized by a vibrant and layered approach, incorporating color, pattern, and various textures. Each room is distinct, and Constable frequently uses different fabrics to achieve this variety. She also emphasizes the use of natural materials such as oak floorboards, marble tiles, and quartzite counters, embracing the natural wear and tear these materials exhibit over time. Her favorite room is her and her husband's bathroom, which she describes as a calm and luxurious space for relaxation. Constable's design philosophy is deeply influenced by her Swiss grandmother, whose home featured a rich collection of antiques, self-painted oil paintings, and hand-decorated furniture. This eclectic mix of old and new, combined with a love for color and pattern, defines Constable's style. Her own home reflects this sensibility, blending antique pieces with more modern elements. Regarding her latest endeavor, Room by Room Interiors, Constable explains that the platform addresses the challenge many people face in finding the right design elements for their homes. By curating complete design schemes, the service aims to simplify the decorating process for those who lack the time or inclination to research extensively. This initiative makes professional interior design principles and product selections available to a wider audience. Constable also shared a wish list of ten items that align with her design aesthetic and current preferences. These items include a versatile sofa bed from The House Upstairs, a Folia Scalloped Natural Linen Wall Light from Lights & Lamps for architectural detailing, and a Wilmington Reeded Bedside Table from Alfred Newall, valued for its curves and the timeless quality of limed oak. Other items comprise a Frill Pouffe from Six The Residence for bedrooms or dressing rooms, a Dunes Rug from Pelican House x Lucy Williams, praised for its brown and blue color combination, and an Exton Mirror from Vaughan, considered a timeless piece suitable for various spaces. The list also features Marton Side Tables from The White Company for their utility in small spaces, a Ma Ma Lay Rattan Tray from Kalinko for desk or bedside organization, Brass Wiggle Handles from Bias Editions for a fun and luxurious touch, and a Rosemary Willow Diffuser from Bamford, appreciated for its fresh scent and aesthetic appeal. These selections collectively showcase Constable's commitment to functionality, natural materials, and a balanced blend of classic and contemporary elements. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #RoomByRoomInteriors #RebeccaConstable #DesignInspiration #Furniture #HomeAccessories #TimelessDesign #NaturalMaterials

This article explores the intersection of Feng Shui principles and manifestation, offering five expert tips to curate a home environment that supports personal growth and goal attainment. It posits that a well-designed living space can actively contribute to a positive mindset and attract desired outcomes. The initial step emphasizes the importance of decluttering, aligning with Feng Shui's primary commandment of removing stagnant energy. Holistic interior designer Gala Magriñá explains that editing possessions to retain only what resonates with one's current identity and future aspirations creates vital space for new opportunities. Maintaining a clutter-free home is presented as essential for inviting new experiences and avoiding limitations imposed by outdated items. The second tip highlights the significance of focal points in every room. Amanda Gibby Peters, founder of Simple Shui, suggests that each space should feature a striking element that captures attention, whether through vibrant colors, oversized decor, or objects of intrinsic beauty. These visual cues are intended to reinforce a sense of self-worth, courage in pursuing dreams, and the belief in an abundant life. The article clarifies that focal points do not always have to be traditional elements like a television and encourages creative expression. The third recommendation focuses on the intentional curation of art, particularly in the bedroom, a space central to daily manifestation. Given that the bedroom is where individuals rest, dream, and awaken, its environment is crucial for setting a conducive tone. Beyond adhering to traditional Feng Shui advice regarding bed placement and nightstand harmony, Peters advises selecting art for the wall opposite the bed with specific goals in mind. This ensures that the first and last images seen each day reinforce personal aspirations, leveraging these powerful moments of transition between conscious and unconscious states. The fourth piece of advice encourages embracing significant changes within the home to trigger substantial shifts in life. While minor adjustments can gradually alter a home's energy, a bolder approach, such as introducing an accent wall with positive colors or completely redesigning a bedroom layout according to Feng Shui principles, can lead to more profound transformations. This proactive approach to design is presented as a catalyst for breaking old patterns and manifesting new realities. Finally, the article underscores the principle of assigning purpose to every corner of the home, aligning with the foundational role of intention in both manifestation and Feng Shui. Amanda Gibby Peters stresses that every room should have a clearly defined function, and its elements should support that purpose without haphazard arrangements. For instance, in a bedroom, the bed should be the central focus, free from clutter on dressers or nightstands. This intentional organization helps guide visual focus, fostering an environment that actively supports desired experiences and lifestyle changes. The article concludes by suggesting resources for those new to Feng Shui and manifestation, emphasizing the importance of clear objectives and aligned actions. #FengShui #InteriorDesign #Manifestation #HomeDecor #Decluttering #HolisticDesign #Mindset #PositiveEnergy #GoalSetting

The author explores the concept of "Design with a capital D," a term coined by T magazine editor Pilar Viladas, which refers to high-end, statement-making interiors. While admiring such designs, the author questions the necessity of always making a bold statement in a room, noting that rooms can become "rudderless" if too safe. The author's personal approach is to seek an "anchor" rather than a "statement" in design. The author discusses the pitfalls of the "statement wall," suggesting it can lead to a sense of completion prematurely. An experience is recounted where a client had invested heavily in De Gournay wallpaper for a dining room, leaving the rest of the apartment undone. The author's solution was to elevate the surrounding decor to match the grandeur of the wallpaper, emphasizing that complete overhaul isn't always necessary to transform a space. The author also touches on situations where decor becomes too tasteful, requiring a "punch" to disrupt the complacency. A personal anecdote illustrates this: while designing her own sitting room with elegant, understated elements, she introduced a zebra linen fabric to add an unexpected jolt. The author reflects on the influence of style icons like Lee Radziwill, whose tiger silk velvet sofa served as an inspiration, but also cautions against "statement seating" becoming a design cliché. The author advocates for introducing bold elements later in the decorating process, after a sense of balance has been established, to prevent them from dominating the entire space. Balance is highlighted as crucial, comparing it to cooking, and a trick for achieving harmony between rooms with strong patterns involves using a complementary color from the wallpaper in the adjacent room. The author admits to a lack of restraint in her own decorating preferences, contrasting it with the admired minimalist approach of interior designer Joanna Plant, who expertly curates a few perfect items. This personal struggle stems from a desire to possess many beloved items. Ultimately, the author emphasizes that rooms are not meant to be static but should evolve, bringing life to otherwise inoffensive interiors. The author dismisses the worry of rooms becoming boring, stating that their primary purpose is to serve as a backdrop for living, not to constantly entertain. The underlying message is to have fun with decorating, allowing for playful elements without overthinking cleverness, as seen in the September 2025 issue of Elle Decor. #InteriorDesign #Maximalism #DecoratingTips #HomeDecor #DesignPhilosophy #RitaKonig #StatementDecor #RoomBalance

The article highlights Jules Stafford, an interior design alumna from George Fox University, and her impactful work at DesignCase, a firm recognized for its community-focused projects. Stafford, a bi-cultural woman with Mexican and Filipino heritage, integrates her understanding of diverse cultures into her design philosophy, emphasizing the creation of hospitable spaces that foster community. A notable project discussed is the Immigrant Food restaurant in Ballston, Virginia, which she helped design. This restaurant is celebrated for its vibrant aesthetic, reflecting various immigrant cultures, and its role as a hub for cultural exploration and community engagement. Stafford's work extends beyond commercial projects to pro bono community initiatives. DesignCase recently revamped teacher lounges in a local K-12 public school, designing intentional spaces for educators across different grade levels. This project deeply resonated with Stafford, who witnessed the profound positive impact these revitalized spaces had on the teachers, reinforcing her belief in the power of design to serve and uplift communities. She views these opportunities as a way to steward her talents and contribute meaningfully to society. The article also delves into Stafford's personal journey, detailing her upbringing in Hesperia, California, within a large family that instilled in her a strong sense of community and a knack for organizing events. Her early experiences with hospitality and planning naturally transitioned into an interest in interior design. As a first-generation college student of color, Stafford faced unique challenges in pursuing higher education. Her family, with no prior college attendees, found the prospect of university cumbersome. She navigated a crossroads between pursuing a design-focused school or a faith-based institution, ultimately finding George Fox University and its Mosaic Scholars Program, which offered both academic and leadership development support. Her transition to George Fox was initially difficult due to the distance from home and financial pressures. Overwhelmed, Stafford considered leaving after only two weeks. However, the unwavering support from university staff, particularly Bryce Coefield and Jenny Elsey, played a crucial role in her decision to stay. They provided her with options and encouragement, demonstrating the strong community ethos at George Fox. Further support came in the form of a nanny position with George Fox’s women’s volleyball coach, Emily Davis, which offered her housing and extended her stay at the university, allowing her to thrive academically and personally. Casey Martin, Stafford's interior design professor, also provided significant mentorship and practical assistance, including helping her secure employment when an initial job fell through. Martin's commitment to connecting students with industry professionals and offering comprehensive support, whether professional or personal, was instrumental in Stafford's success. The collaborative spirit among her peers in the interior design program, where students supported each other through competitions and celebrated collective achievements, further underscored the importance of community. Stafford's story culminates in her securing a position at DesignCase, a moment celebrated by her classmates, symbolizing a shared victory and the fulfillment of her aspirations. She continues to advocate for collaborative design, emphasizing the need for diverse perspectives to create impactful and meaningful spaces, believing that even small organizations can achieve significant positive change. #InteriorDesign #CommunityEngagement #AlumniSuccess #GeorgeFoxUniversity #FirstGenerationStudent #CulturalFluency #ProBonoWork #Mentorship #CareerJourney

Laura Kirar, an internationally acclaimed American-born, Mexico-based interior and product designer, shares insights into her unique style, diverse inspirations, and creative process. Her design philosophy emphasizes the combination of raw materials with her deep understanding of art, architecture, fashion, and music. Kirar’s early influences stem from her upbringing in Chicago, where she was exposed to significant art and architectural collections, including works by Daniel Burnham, Louis Sullivan, Mies van der Rohe, Frank Lloyd Wright, Brancusi, Georgia O’Keeffe, René Magritte, and Salvador Dalí. These foundational experiences shaped her perspective, leading her to view furniture as sculptural objects and spaces as canvases for human experience. Kirar's passion for both art and architecture guided her career choice. She describes her approach as abstract, knowing when to adhere to design principles and when to innovate. The ability to create environments where lives unfold is a powerful motivator for her. Her current inspirations include contemporary artists, fashion designers, and musicians such as Peter Zumthor, David Wiseman, Milena Muzquiz, Monica Rezman, and Marcela Diaz. She expresses a particular fondness for coral pink in all its hues, describing it as luminous and soothing, suitable for various applications from walls to textiles. Travel plays a significant role in Kirar's inspiration, leading her to discover unique shops worldwide. In Mexico City, she frequents Trouve for vintage items. New York offers Les Atelier Courbet, The Future Perfect, and Artemest. In London, she highlights The Carpenters Workshop Gallery at Ladbroke Hall, and in Paris, Pierre Frey for textiles, along with various antique and vintage markets like Marche Biron. Mexico itself is a profound source of inspiration, influencing her sense of color, scale, and textures, and fostering her appreciation for traditional crafts found in its mountains, valleys, and cities like Oaxaca and the Yucatan. Kirar is also a passionate collector, believing that artists benefit from surrounding themselves with inspiring objects. Her collections include vintage chairs, ceramics, pottery, art books, hand-woven textiles, vintage cowboy boots, and silver Navajo accessories, all chosen for their stories. She recently acquired her fourth art piece by Cisco Jimenez, suggesting a new collection in the making. Her personal art collection includes a Cindy Sherman photograph, which has inspired the palette for an entire room. Beyond visual arts, Kirar finds inspiration in film, particularly through MUBI, enjoying classic films, film noir, thrillers, and sci-fi. She also has eclectic musical tastes, ranging from The Cure to opera, classical, rock, punk, and jazz, appreciating the intimacy of live performances. Among her extensive product designs, which number over a thousand, she favors the Mar floor lamp and Vargueno chair from her collection with Arteriors. Her Vir Stil and Paletta bath collections for Kallista have been bestsellers for two decades, and her Caviar chandelier for Arteriors has consistently topped its bestseller list since 2010. Kirar also enjoys cooking, drawing on her Italian heritage to create dishes like pici al limone with sautéed radicchio. She also puts a contemporary spin on traditional Mexican chiles rellenos. Her philosophy is that cooking can be spontaneous and creative, often improvising with available ingredients. This reflects her broader approach to design and life – a blend of diverse influences, personal passion, and creative adaptation. #InteriorDesign #ProductDesign #LauraKirar #CreativeProcess #ArchitecturalInfluence #ArtInspiration #MexicanCrafts #DesignPhilosophy #GlobalTravel

This blog post explores a Toronto home, designed by Ashley Montgomery Design for podcast host and food blogger Rivki Rabinowitz, that masterfully blends traditional aesthetics with a bold, colorful palette. Rabinowitz, who describes her style as “grandma who likes to party,” sought to create a home that felt like the “structural personification of a hug,” a desire influenced by the cold Canadian winters. Drawing inspiration from designers like Beata Heuman and Pierce & Ward, the 5,000-square-foot property is a testament to layered patterns, flavors, and textures built upon an ironically traditional foundation. The design departs significantly from Rabinowitz's previous home, which she found sterile due to its neutral color scheme. In contrast, this residence incorporates 35 different paint colors, including cinnamon, ochre, raspberry, chocolate brown, smoky blue, and burnished brass tones, all contributing to a cohesive and warm atmosphere. Designer Ashley Montgomery highlights the challenge of achieving this vibrant look without it feeling chaotic, emphasizing the restraint required to balance such a broad spectrum of colors. The collaboration between Rabinowitz and Montgomery was seamless, with Montgomery finding Rabinowitz's unique style inspiring and pushing her out of her comfort zone. Key areas of the home showcase this distinctive approach. The foyer, for instance, features a yellow and maroon-colored checkered floor, an element that initially concerned Montgomery but ultimately proved successful. The kitchen, designed with the family’s Kosher observance in mind, includes three distinct sinks for dairy, meat, and general use, along with plaster molding, an arched hood, a second fridge, freezer, and dishwasher. The pantry, described as a workhorse area, boasts jade green marble countertops, initially seen as unconventional but now cherished by Montgomery. The primary bathroom exudes richness and elegance with yellow wallpaper, burgundy cabinetry, and sky-blue tiles, while the powder bath combines Farrow & Ball India Yellow paint with a Red Earth ceiling and blue quartzite stone. The living spaces are equally thoughtful; the family room ingeniously conceals a television behind custom art, and the dining room features mural-like wallpaper and a unique light fixture. The office spaces are tailored to individual tastes: Rabinowitz's office is a feminine sanctuary with a ladylike palette, vintage prints, and Benjamin Moore Old Stone walls, while her husband’s office, inspired by Moroccan design, incorporates 18th-century Egyptian doors and House of Hackney wallpaper. Bedrooms for the three daughters continue the theme of personalized and vibrant design. The oldest daughter's room showcases House of Hackney wallpaper and Penny Morrison drapery. A shared bathroom for two daughters balances personality with adjoining bedroom palettes, featuring Pierre Frey wallpaper and durable penny tile. Throughout the home, custom details, vintage finds, and a meticulous selection of materials contribute to a space that is not only visually stimulating but also deeply personal and functional, designed to be lived in and enjoyed for everything from playdates to Shabbat gatherings. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #TorontoHome #ColorfulInteriors #TraditionalModern #AshleyMontgomeryDesign #RivkiRabinowitz #EclecticDecor #CustomDesign

The article explores how to prevent interior design from becoming "boring" by incorporating character and personality into spaces, moving beyond transient trends. Monica Santayana, co-founder of MONIOMI Design, emphasizes that predictability is detrimental to interesting design, advocating for spaces that evoke feelings of joy, nostalgia, or curiosity. Designers are encouraged to stay true to their personal preferences rather than strictly following current trends. One key strategy discussed is to "disrupt harmony just enough." This involves introducing unexpected elements, such as mixing patterns, placing bold items in subtle rooms, or exaggerating proportions to maintain visual engagement. Santayana explains that each room should be treated as a unique chapter in a larger story, ensuring movement, surprise, and discovery throughout a home. Ronald Alvarez, also from MONIOMI Design, stresses that a space should never feel generic but instead possess personality and purpose, asserting that designs feel dull when everything matches perfectly. Another crucial tip is to contrast textures and tones. Camilla Masi, an interior designer at Otto Tiles & Design, suggests using a calm, neutral palette as a base and then adding unexpected pops of color, unique patterns, or richly glazed tiles. This approach prevents a space from appearing flat or predictable. Alvarez reinforces this idea, highlighting the creation of tension through contrasts such as hard and soft, organic and graphic, or vintage and new elements. He notes that even in monochromatic schemes, depth can be achieved through intentional variations in light, material, and form. Incorporating bold art pieces is identified as a direct method to inject soul and individuality into a room. Art can set the overall tone and is often considered by designers as the most essential item to retain in a space. Manuela Hamilford, founder of Hamilford Design, explains that art elicits emotion and conversation, reflecting the inhabitants' identity. A home that authentically mirrors its occupants’ lives will inherently avoid being boring. The article also advocates for playfulness in design. Overlooked transition areas, such as doorways, can be transformed into design statements. Raili Clasen of Raili CA Design suggests painting archways in vibrant colors, tiling them, or using contrasting wallpapers to create impact and a sense of fun. These playful interventions frame the room and establish memorable "moments." Finally, the most significant advice is to embrace experimentation and avoid "playing it safe." Genevieve Bennett, Head of Design at Liberty Interiors, encourages designers to be bold and brave, freeing themselves from concerns about external opinions. She recommends experimenting with unexpected color and pattern pairings, like juxtaposing graphic stripes with traditional florals or adding vibrant colors to minimalist spaces. Bold prints, she suggests, can introduce a sense of fun, starting with a lead textile and building the design from there. This approach of "pattern sprinkling" fosters both interest and balance, ensuring that a space designed with passion and creativity will resonate with others.

Colton Dixon Winger, cofounder and owner of the styling agency Cuniform, has expanded his expertise from personal wardrobe curation to sustainable home design. Winger’s approach, rooted in the philosophy of repurposing existing items and sourcing vintage or pre-owned goods, mirrors his successful strategy in fashion. His venture into interior design began with "rearranging services," where he would reorganize a client's current furniture and decorative items to create more cohesive and intentional spaces. This hands-on method stems from his lifelong interest in architecture and interior arrangement, a passion he cultivated since childhood by constantly reconfiguring his own room. Now, Cuniform Interiors operates with a dedicated head of design, Bethanie Jones, and offers comprehensive services, including 3D renderings, structural modifications, and full kitchen remodels. A significant challenge in this expansion has been adapting the sustainable ethos from clothing to home furnishings, as the logistics of transporting and sourcing larger items differ considerably. However, the core principle remains consistent: prioritize what a client already possesses and, when new items are necessary, seek out sustainable and second-hand options. One notable project involved Mia Malave, a long-standing styling client of Cuniform, who sought Winger’s help when moving into a midcentury modern home in West Seattle. Malave desired an open, interconnected living space where conversations could easily flow between the living room, dining room, and kitchen. Her existing kitchen, however, was enclosed by walls and low-hanging cabinets, obstructing the desired open-plan feel. Winger collaborated with Casual Surveying Co., a local design-build firm, to dismantle these barriers, creating an open-concept kitchen furnished with midcentury-appropriate walnut cabinets and a central oak island. For Malave's guest room, Winger skillfully repurposed her existing rug, table, and other decor, augmenting them with unique finds like a vintage metal ladder from Epic Antique to serve as a blanket holder. The furniture for the ground floor was meticulously sourced, with nearly every piece being vintage or recycled. This commitment to intentional, sustainable sourcing often requires patience, as clients may need to wait longer for the perfect, ethically acquired item rather than settling for readily available new products. For instance, a Parisian desk was acquired from local antique dealer Kassie Keith, and a large bamboo dining table was found on Craigslist for a mere $100, complemented by refurbished German chairs. After several attempts to find a suitable sofa, Bethanie Jones located an investment-quality 1970s Milo Baughman piece from her warehouse, which became a central element in Malave’s living room. Malave, still searching for a coffee table, has embraced the deliberate pace and vintage aesthetic, acknowledging that her preference for timeless, well-preserved older items aligns perfectly with the midcentury character of her home. The process highlights Cuniform's dedication to functional design and conscious consumption, demonstrating that beautiful, meaningful spaces can be created through thoughtful selection and repurposing rather than relying solely on new purchases. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #SustainableDesign #VintageFurniture #MidcenturyModern #Repurposing #ConsciousConsumption #WardrobeCurator #SeattleInteriors

The author, Natalie Jahangiry, a multidisciplinary designer, discusses the concept that a home is never truly finished and argues that this is something to be embraced rather than avoided. She challenges the common perception that interior designers' homes are perfectly styled spaces, highlighting that this is often an unrealistic and staged portrayal of home living. Jahangiry emphasizes that homes are dynamic entities that evolve with the shifting needs, styles, and life stages of their inhabitants. She illustrates this point with her own experience, detailing how she enthusiastically decorated her home upon moving in two years prior, only to find that changing family dynamics, personal style evolution, and the demands of raising two young children necessitated revisiting and altering previously "finished" rooms. She admits to having multiple half-finished projects and acknowledges the inevitable wear and tear of family life, such as fingerprints and scratches, which contribute to a home's lived-in character. Jahangiry offers several pieces of advice to readers, encouraging them to prioritize authenticity over trends. She suggests that it is perfectly acceptable for parts of a home to remain unfinished and advises individuals to work at a pace that suits their family's needs. She advocates for decorating slowly, making small, incremental changes, and embracing the natural evolution of personal style rather than striving for a fixed, perfect vision. She also debunks the myth that neutral, all-white interiors are always best for resale, asserting that a home should be decorated for present-day living and personal enjoyment. Her perspective encourages a softer approach to interiors, one that celebrates imperfections and views a home as a "living, breathing design" that adapts to its occupants. She concludes by stating that growth, flexibility, and personality are more valuable than perfection in home design, urging readers to let go of the idea of a "finished" home and instead appreciate their homes as they continuously transform and reflect their lives. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #HomeLiving #DesignPhilosophy #FamilyLife #Authenticity #DecoratingTips #EvolvingHome #NatalieJahangiry

The author, an ELLE DECOR A-List designer, details her recent experience renovating and extending her London apartment. She notes that while designers' own homes often turn out to be their best work due to the absence of client-imposed visual compromises, designing for oneself can present its own set of challenges. Initially exciting, the project often gets pushed aside in favor of client work, leading to the 'cobbler-with-no-shoes' phenomenon. The collaboration aspect, crucial in client projects, is largely missing when working on one's own space, sometimes leading to a sense of loneliness as the only push-and-pull comes from one's own team, who may be reluctant to offer contradictory opinions. Despite these challenges, the author appreciated the flexibility and speed with which decisions could be made and adjusted. Design changes could be implemented swiftly, or even reversed, without the need for multiple client meetings, presentations, or extensive persuasion. This freedom allowed for bold choices that might be difficult to sell to a client, such as applying tobacco linen to north-facing sitting room walls or painting window frames and trim in a unique 'Toad' green. These bold design elements, while adding to the expense and timeline, ultimately created a high-impact, calming atmosphere, evoking a country feel for guests. She draws a parallel to Albert Hadley, who famously used his own apartment as a design laboratory, experimenting with unique elements like lacquered chocolate-syrup-colored walls and ceilings. This illustrates how designers' personal spaces become arenas for unconstrained creativity and experimentation, free from the pressure of client approval. When making daring design choices for her own home, the author experiences less anxiety about the outcome, knowing she can live with and adjust the results if necessary. This contrasts with client projects, where bold decisions carry significant financial implications or risk a loss of trust if initial iterations don't meet expectations, potentially stifling creativity. The article also touches on the differing nature of budgets when designing for oneself versus for clients. While client budgets always have boundaries, personal projects offer a different spirit of allocation. The author found value in things that might be considered extravagant for a client, such as a four-poster bed requiring 90 yards of fabric, which she expresses no regret for, despite it being a budget-buster. This highlights the personal satisfaction derived from investing in specific design elements for one's own enjoyment. Ultimately, the author concludes that the process of designing her own home, despite its inherent 'pain,' was a rewarding experience, allowing for a level of creative freedom and personal expression that is often tempered in client-focused work. The outcomes, particularly the bold and distinctive design choices, have brought significant personal satisfaction and validation, reaffirming the unique benefits and challenges of being one's own design client. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #DesignerLife #LondonApartment #CreativeFreedom #BudgetManagement #PersonalStyle #DesignChallenges

Pattern in interior design, far from being merely decorative, introduces depth and narrative to a room, creating a sense of magic and transporting the mind to different worlds. While the skill of combining patterns is considerable, the initial step for any pattern-related decision is to be captivated by a specific design. Emma J Shipley's Mythica collection, a collaboration with Clarke & Clarke, exemplifies this with its range of wallpapers and fabrics inspired by wildlife, mythology, and fantastical elements. Launched on February 4, this collection features jungle dreamscapes and sea forests, reminiscent of Jules Verne, often incorporating mythic creatures. Shipley, a British artist with Irish heritage, describes her creative process as beginning with a story. She seeks inspiration in nature, sketching and photographing, and immersing herself in fantasy literature before integrating these elements into her designs. This involves identifying key motifs or 'icons' and meticulously arranging them within the pattern, adding detail iteratively. An example from her collection is the Quetzal wallpaper, which prominently features the resplendent quetzal bird, observed by Shipley in Costa Rica. These birds, with their iridescent blue-green plumage and vivid red breasts and long, ribbon-like tails, appear almost mythological. The design combines quetzal birds with hummingbirds, bats, lizards, and a tiger heron, creating a cohesive narrative rather than a naturalistic depiction. Another wallpaper, Odyssey Mythos, draws inspiration from Greek ancient sites, museums, and the film "Jason and the Argonauts." Its central motifs are horses, traditionally associated with Poseidon, reimagined with Pegasus wings, fish tails, and cheetah spots, showcasing Shipley's signature use of animal patterns in unexpected contexts. Shipley's patterns are available in various colorways, from vibrant multi-colored options to subtle monochromes. She emphasizes that while she designs in black and white, the addition of color profoundly alters the mood and feel of the design. The Mythica collection also includes jacquard weaves, where the pattern is woven into the fabric, and embroidered patterns, such as the 'Owl of Athena,' which repeats a small golden owl motif on a linen base. This variety allows for layering patterns to create a diverse scheme, which can range from maximalist to subtly enhancing a pared-back, neutral space with personality. Combining patterns can be challenging, often leading homeowners to opt for plain interiors. Interior designer Maggie Brady of Pearl Redesigns highlights that a pattern-less home can appear flat. She notes that the fear of overwhelming color is a common stumbling block, suggesting that incorporating neutrals makes pattern mixing more manageable. Brady's primary advice is to maintain simple and consistent color combinations to ensure visual harmony. The process typically begins with a 'hero piece' that establishes the room's underlying color palette. For instance, in a country bedroom design, an antique Aubusson rug with a peachy-pink, green, pale blue, and olive palette dictated the room's color scheme. Subsequent patterns, such as a bold floral bedspread and a blossom print wallpaper, were chosen to align with these established tones and often shared a similar scale, making them easier to integrate. Even with multiple patterns, the room maintains a restful atmosphere due to the consistency of tones. Brady also advises consistency in style when mixing patterns, recommending adherence to a specific period, such as mid-century, to create a sense of established charm. She encourages experimentation, suggesting that if a pattern doesn't work in one spot, it can likely find a home elsewhere in the house. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #PatternMixing #WallpaperTrends #EmmaJShipley #MythicaCollection #TextileDesign #ColorPalette #DesignInspiration

The interior design landscape of 2025 is poised for a significant shift, embracing boldness, drama, and a refined take on maximalism, moving away from the quiet luxury and nature-inspired themes that dominated 2024. While timeless spaces and sustainable practices will continue to be important, the coming year emphasizes vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and personalized design elements. Designers anticipate a return to maximalism, though with an elevated, more elegant approach. One of the most compelling trends for 2025 is the refreshed maximalism, characterized by 'drenching' spaces in dynamic hues. This involves using a single color or various tones of the same color across multiple surfaces, transforming rooms into immersive and personal environments. Kitchens, traditionally adorned in neutrals, are expected to burst with rich colors like mustard yellows, deep emerald greens, burnt oranges, or vibrant cobalt blues. Pattern, particularly wallpaper, will also play a crucial role, extending to ceilings, often referred to as the 'fifth wall.' Decorative ceilings, whether painted to match walls or adorned with intricate details like wood beams, are set for a revival, adding character and unexpected elegance to living spaces. Another prominent trend is the continued rise of warm, earthy tones, especially brown. Pantone's selection of "Mocha Mousse" as the 2025 Color of the Year underscores this, highlighting the color's ability to connect interiors with nature. Designers view brown as a versatile, inviting neutral that lends a timeless quality to rooms, echoing a 1970s revival. This focus on natural and comforting palettes aligns with a broader emphasis on wellness within home design. Bespoke furniture is also set to gain traction, moving away from the 'fast furniture' model. With increased client discernment and a demand for personalization, custom-designed and semi-custom pieces will become more prevalent. This trend supports craftsmanship, sustainability, and allows homeowners to create unique spaces that reflect their individual tastes and personalities. The shift towards bespoke items also highlights a growing awareness of environmental impact, as clients increasingly prefer eco-friendly materials and sustainable production methods. Furthermore, the integration of vintage and retro pieces with modern furnishings will be a key aspect of 2025 design. This approach, which involves incorporating flea market finds or inherited antiques alongside contemporary items, adds warmth, personality, and a sense of history to interiors. This blending of old and new is seen as a sustainable practice, minimizing waste and contributing to unique, layered aesthetics. Vintage lighting, such as Murano glass lamps or shaded sconces, will be mixed with sleek, minimalist modern fixtures, striking a balance between nostalgia and contemporary appeal. Finally, "sensorial design" will continue to evolve, focusing on engaging all five senses to create enriching spatial experiences. Beyond visual aesthetics, designers are incorporating elements like sound (relaxing music), scent (aroma diffusers), and texture, along with thoughtful lighting. This holistic approach aims to positively impact mood and emotional well-being, often integrating biophilic design principles to connect inhabitants with nature. These trends collectively point towards a future of interior design that is bold, personal, sustainable, and deeply engaging on multiple levels. #InteriorDesignTrends #Maximalism #ColorDrenching #BespokeFurniture #VintageDecor #SensorialDesign #Sustainability #HomeDecor2025 #DesignInnovation

Krysti Lyn, a whole home designer, discusses her career journey, design philosophy, and personal experiences. She reveals that her career in design began at the young age of seven, identifying it as an innate gift for "seeing in scale." This ability allows her to visualize how objects fit within a room beyond their aesthetic contribution, a skill she considers a designer's superpower. Despite not actively choosing this path, she expresses gratitude for the opportunity to fulfill her purpose daily, serving clients who benefit from her unique perspective. Lyn specializes in a transitional design aesthetic, which involves blending and merging various design styles and periods. She emphasizes her versatility and ability to select appropriate materials for her clients, attributing her success to this client-centric approach. Her professional journey, however, has not been without challenges. She openly shares that her personal and work life was significantly impacted by domestic violence. This experience, while difficult, ultimately strengthened her resolve, teaching her the importance of self-advocacy and re-focusing on her future. She highlights that this period of adversity made her more determined and taught her to establish boundaries, including learning to say "no." Her professional goals include maintaining her status as an authority on design options, continuously integrating new products, tools, and styles into her practice. She prides herself on creating timeless designs for her clients, understanding that her work involves a significant degree of responsibility and trust. These two elements, she notes, are fundamental to her profession. She considers the ability to build and maintain trust with clients as paramount to her success. When asked about her recommendations for a friend visiting Los Angeles, Lyn outlines a personalized itinerary. This includes a casual meal at In-N-Out Burger, followed by a three-day staycation at her home in Palm Desert, complete with a hot tub, private massages, charcuterie, and Malbec red wine. The trip would also feature a short visit to Las Vegas for a show and a stay at a luxury hotel, interspersed with visits to quaint local spots for improv or murder mystery dinners. A morning drive to Malibu for breakfast to enjoy the scenic views is also on the list. For those interested in Hollywood, she mentions a visit to a famous celebrity cemetery. Significantly, she emphasizes introducing her friend, Kathy, to as many clients as possible, revealing Kathy's integral role as a faithful assistant, confidante, and source of support throughout her career. This acknowledgment underscores the importance of personal relationships in her professional life. Lyn also touches upon the role of mentorship in her career, stating that she did not have a traditional mentor. Instead, she navigated her early career through prayer and faith. She acknowledges one instructor from Harrington design college who authored a notable Modern Furniture Resource Book, and expresses that being recognized by Harpo Studios for her participation in "The Ugliest Room Contest" was a pivotal moment, making her feel understood and appreciated early in her career. This recognition served as a validation of her unique talent and approach to design. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #TransitionalDesign #DesignPhilosophy #Entrepreneurship #PersonalJourney #CreativeProfession #ClientRelationships #LosAngeles

The article explores the growing trend of homeowners replicating successful interior design schemes from their previous residences into new ones, arguing that this practice is not a sign of laziness but rather a clever and confident approach to creating a comfortable and personal living space. The author, Nicky Rampley-Clarke, shares her own experience of moving to a Grade II-listed property in the Cotswolds and consciously choosing to duplicate design elements she loved from her previous home. This includes installing the same textural sisal carpet, selecting Cole & Son wallpaper in similar styles (albeit different shades), and even considering reordering the same Soho Home lighting. Her rationale stems from the extensive time and effort previously invested in curating a look that felt warm, timeless, and uniquely ‘them,’ and she sees no reason to abandon a proven formula. This sentiment is echoed by others, including Jodie Hazlewood of @thehouseupstairs, who, while planning her new home in Bristol, identified ‘nine things’ she would definitely repeat. These range from practical luxuries like a hot water tap and ample electrical sockets to larger design choices such as an upstairs sitting room for unwinding and a preference for non-fitted, vintage kitchen furniture over standard units. Hazlewood emphasizes that these repeated elements contribute to comfort and ease, defining what a ‘home’ truly means to her. Similarly, Steph Nicholson of @houseonthecorner_16, moving to Northamptonshire, found herself gravitating towards the same green and red colour scheme she used in her old Cambridgeshire home. She attributes this to her established love for these colours, regardless of trends, and the sustainability aspect of reusing existing furniture and furnishings. Nicholson also highlights the emotional comfort derived from recreating a familiar environment, particularly after a significant life event. Interiors stylist Sam Grigg provides psychological insight into this phenomenon, suggesting that repetition often stems from the sheer exhaustion of decision-making in the face of numerous decorative choices. Once a successful formula is found, people are reluctant to deviate. Grigg also points out that experience over time helps individuals discern what truly ‘feels right.’ Beyond mere practicality, she notes a sentimental attachment to specific colours, fabrics, or patterns that become integral to one's personal story. This creates a visual thread and a sense of continuity that accelerates the process of making a new house feel like home. Ultimately, the article concludes that repeating successful interior designs is not a lack of imagination but a confident act of self-awareness and intentional design, prioritizing comfort, joy, and a deep understanding of one’s personal aesthetic over constantly chasing new trends. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #PersonalStyle #HomeComfort #Renovation #DecoratingTips #SustainableDesign #PsychologyOfDesign

This blog post explores the vibrant and cheerful redesign of Raeleen and Charlie Yoon's Larchmont home, a project undertaken by Kendra Amin-Dufton and Brad Dufton of Color Theory Boston. Having previously worked with the Yoons on their Boston residence, the designers were aware of the family's affection for color, drawing inspiration from their frequent travels to Costa Rica and a Mid-Century Modern aesthetic. The goal was to create a lively and welcoming home filled with personal touches. The kitchen, designed by Sarah Robertson of Studio Dearborn, was intended to be the heart of the home. Despite initial layout complexities due to large openings into the sitting room, creative solutions were employed for base cabinetry storage. Throughout the home, walls are kept muted to allow colorful furniture and textiles to stand out. The kitchen features a large island, a combination of blue and white cabinetry, and floating shelves, creating a crisp and clean ambiance. Quartz composite is used for the island counter, while marble is incorporated elsewhere, including the tulip table. Brass accents on pendant lighting add a touch of glamour. A notable feature is the 360-degree rotating wood-burning fireplace, which efficiently heats the space and contributes to a cozy atmosphere. The range hood was designed to be reflective, blending into the wall, and subway tile extends behind the single wall cabinet and around the banquette for cohesiveness. The dining room showcases Raeleen's collection of vintage pieces, displayed on glass shelves against lavender gray walls that highlight the colorful ceramics. An oval table facilitates movement, and brass details complement the wall color, while chair upholstery integrates the blue-and-white scheme from the kitchen. The teenage daughter Kendall's room reflects her love for books, blues, greens, and nature, featuring bird-themed wallpaper, coordinated linens, a rug, window treatments, and a desk chair. A nest-like hanging chair provides a private reading nook, emphasizing her personal sanctuary. The article also highlights five stylish ways to incorporate color into a home, as suggested by interior designer Kendra Amin-Dufton: using a bright pop of color on the front door, being bold with large furniture pieces in jewel tones, utilizing all-over color in smaller rooms like powder rooms, adding an unexpected pop of color on the ceiling, and employing variations of the same hue in diverse textiles. Further details of the home include a more formal, moodier living room with smoky-gray walls, brass accents, and a silk rug, alongside a biofuel floating fireplace. The son Brady's bedroom caters to his high energy and love for sports with a cork tile wall, basketball hoop, sound-dampening carpet tiles, a lofted bed with a desk, and a secret 'bat cave' for downtime. The powder room is designed to be bold and fun with black-marble vanity, while the basement features two zones: a kid's area and a 'man cave' with an 'architecturally incredible' wood pool table and a jazz bar aesthetic. A sitting and meditation room is designed with a colorful modular sofa, complemented by warm pink and lavender walls and an over-dyed vintage rug, aiming to create an enveloping sunset-like atmosphere. The family room serves as a central relaxation spot, introducing colors used throughout the home, with a colorful geometric rug, additional colored furniture, and black-painted ceiling beams acting as a unifying design element. A reading area at the back includes a gallery wall of the children's artwork, completing the family-centric space. #HomeRedesign #ColorTheory #InteriorDesign #LarchmontHome #MidCenturyModern #KitchenDesign #VibrantInteriors #FamilyHome #CustomDesign

San Francisco-based interior designer Tineke Triggs is celebrated for her daring yet meticulously curated spaces, blending bold creativity with everyday livability. Her unique approach transforms interiors into immersive environments, whether through jewel-toned living rooms, transformative ceiling murals, or homes layered with art and narrative. Triggs describes her design process as intensely personal, stemming from her visual thinking as a dyslexic individual, which allows her to translate a client's essence into a design even when they struggle to articulate it. She aims to design spaces that reflect a client’s deeper, often unexpressed, personality and desired lifestyle. For Triggs, comfort in a home means avoiding an over-styled aesthetic where every detail feels obsessively curated. She advises against overthinking design, likening it to planning a wedding where minor details can overshadow the overall experience. Instead, she emphasizes that the most crucial aspect of home decor is its storytelling capacity. She is not a minimalist, preferring to saturate every plane with layers of color and meaning. Her designs integrate art, accessories, carpets, and antiques, each element contributing to a narrative about the inhabitants. While every element contributes to the overall story, she notes that not all furniture needs to be a 'statement piece'; some can simply be comfortable and functional, with walls and accent pieces primarily carrying the narrative weight. Triggs highlights the often-overlooked importance of ceilings, calling them the most vital 'wall' in a home. She sees the ceiling as an opportunity to expand a space and complete a room, asserting that a disregarded ceiling makes a space feel incomplete. She works with decorative artists, such as Caroline Lizarraga, to create imaginative ceiling treatments like gilded wallpaper with paint dripping down the walls, aiming for designs that surprise and delight. When selecting a ceiling pattern, the project's overall needs dictate the choice. For instance, in a 'man cave' with low ceilings and dark walls, she introduced an agate-inspired design on the ceiling to serve as a focal point and add drama. While some clients may be conservative, Triggs gently pushes design boundaries, incorporating bold elements like feathered wallpaper on a ceiling in an otherwise traditional blue room. Her guiding principle is balance, avoiding over-stimulation—a habit influenced by her ADD—to ensure spaces feel inviting rather than overly dramatic. She believes comfort and boldness can coexist, favoring rich, vibrant jewel tones and metallics that echo nature while maintaining liveliness without overwhelming opulence. Her design process begins with collecting various pieces that catch her eye, then refining them through a visual, often chaotic, method of creating multiple schemes simultaneously. A home is considered complete not just with furniture, but with the addition of art, accessories, plants, flowers, books, blankets, and pillows, which make it feel lived-in and cozy, ultimately completing the story of the space. #InteriorDesign #TinekeTriggs #HomeDecor #CeilingDesign #NarrativeDesign #PersonalizedInteriors #DesignPhilosophy #CustomDetails #BoldInteriors