Idyllic, Depression-Era Watercolors of American Design

This article provides a visual journey through American home interior design from 1940 to 2010, highlighting key trends and cultural shifts that influenced domestic aesthetics. Each year, from 1940 to 1959, is presented with an illustrative photograph and a brief description of the prevalent design styles, technological advancements, and socio-economic factors impacting home decor. Beginning in 1940, the impact of World War II is evident, with decor remaining static due to material shortages, featuring classic 1930s hallmarks like damask curtains. By 1941, Streamline Moderne furniture with its curved lines, inspired by aerodynamic design, began appearing. Radio was the primary form of home entertainment in 1942, found in over 80% of American homes, far more affordable than the newly invented televisions. The midcentury modern design movement started taking root in 1943, though its full flourishing awaited the post-war era. Art Deco and Art Nouveau continued to be popular in 1944, with geometric wall hangings and organic headboards. Kitchens in 1945 were compact but benefited from modern appliances. Floral patterns were popular in upholstery in 1946, though they would soon give way to more modern styles. The transition of the 1940s is underscored in 1947 with the appearance of a television set in an otherwise traditional living room. Chinoiserie, a 19th-century fad, made a strong comeback in the 1930s and persisted into 1948 as international travel and trade reopened. Patterned wallpaper, often with abstract designs, was widely used in bedrooms by 1949. The 1950s marked a new era with televisions becoming more popular by 1950, alongside rural-style decorations like gingham-upholstered chairs. The butterfly chair, a design from Argentina in 1938, exploded in popularity in the U.S. in 1951 after its design entered the public domain. Tropical motifs in interior design and fashion were trendy in 1952, with fringed armchairs from previous decades still present. Tiled fireplaces, reminiscent of Art Deco, and geometric-patterned wallpapers were fashionable in 1953. Open floor plans became a signature of midcentury modern homes in 1954. A classic 1950s look in 1955 included black-and-white checkered linoleum floors paired with country details like Shaker-style chairs. Kitchens expanded in size in 1956 to accommodate new appliances like dishwashers and garbage disposals. Pastel colors such as mint green and baby pink were popular in 1957, often accented with red. Truman Capote’s maximalist home in 1958, despite the growing trend towards minimalism, featured Chinoiserie, patterned wallpaper, and a red palette. By 1959, some living rooms maintained a basic furnishing style, focusing on colors characteristic of the decade.

Candace Wheeler, an influential figure whose life spanned nearly a century of rapid transformation in American society, moved from a rural upbringing to the bustling jazz-age New York City. At the height of her career in the late 19th century, Wheeler was instrumental in instigating changes in the lives of American women. While considered a feminist, her approach was not radical; her leadership stemmed from a profound sense of responsibility for less fortunate women and a vision for their financial independence. In an era marked by a devastating war and financial instability, Wheeler prioritized economic empowerment for women over political power. Although she supported women's suffrage, she channeled her energy into training women for self-sufficiency rather than actively pursuing voting rights. Wheeler initially engaged in not-for-profit benevolent organizations, a conventional avenue for women's charity work in the 19th century. However, she deliberately distinguished herself from the typical 'charity lady,' rejecting the dilettante status often associated with the term. As a middle-class woman, she lacked the financial and social capital typically required to ascend to leadership roles in elite charitable circles. Instead, Wheeler's impact was driven by her artistic talent and strong social conscience. Her effectiveness as a leader was fortified by her passion for art, her connections with prominent artists and designers, the support of her husband and brothers, and her unwavering self-confidence and drive. Leveraging these resources, she built a significant career as a designer of textiles and interiors, as well as a teacher, lecturer, and author. Between 1877 and 1893, from the establishment of the Society of Decorative Art to her final major commission, the interior design of the Woman's Building at the World's Columbian Exposition, Wheeler was recognized as the national authority on decorative textiles and interiors. She continued to contribute to the design world through her writings, including books, articles, and her autobiography, 'Yesterdays in a Busy Life' (1918). In an era that often undervalued strong women, Wheeler championed art and design as viable professional careers for women, shifting perceptions from hobbies to professions. She was among the first American women to create designs for manufacturers, paving the way for countless female designers, some of whom she personally trained within her woman-run firm, Associated Artists. She also played a pioneering role in establishing interior decoration as a recognized profession. Throughout her extensive life, Wheeler created numerous beautiful objects and promoted a distinctly American style in textile and wallpaper design, characterized by colors and patterns inspired by American flora and adapted to the unique qualities of American light. However, her most profound legacy lies in her role as an early 'career woman' and designer, serving as an inspiring role model for women at the turn of the 20th century, encouraging them to seek equal footing with men in the workforce. #CandaceWheeler #AmericanDesign #TextileDesign #InteriorDesign #WomenInDesign #19thCenturyArt #SocialConscience #FeministHistory #DecorativeArts

Rachel Schlather, the blogger behind CLEfashionista, transformed her new Strongsville home with a Cleveland-themed gallery wall, making it a central decorating priority upon moving in last year. Her approach involved a curated collection of prints, posters, and art sourced from local shops, reflecting a style she describes as “midcentury modern with a touch of Cleveland.” Schlather aimed for a cool, un-kitschy vibe by taking her time with the selection process, acquiring pieces over several months. This allowed for a blend of budget-friendly items and more expensive art, ensuring a balanced aesthetic. Color coordination was a significant factor, leading her to even paint some frames to perfectly match the overall scheme. The meticulous planning involved laying out the gallery wall on the floor numerous times before finalizing its arrangement. The gallery wall is prominently displayed in the joint dining and living room of her 1960s ranch-style home, creating an immediate and lasting impression on visitors and serving as a conversation starter. One of Schlather's most cherished pieces is a print of the Leonard Schlather Brewing Co. This find holds personal significance as her husband is a distant relative to one of the brewery’s namesakes. Operating from 1857 to 1902, the company's storage facilities were historically located in the building that now houses the Great Lakes Brewing Co., a detail often mentioned during brewery tours. Further enhancing the local theme are two framed maps from Lakewood’s Cuyahoga Collective, positioned above the dining table. These maps feature Strongsville, her current hometown, and Marblehead, the location of her family’s lake house, a frequent summer retreat. These pieces serve as year-round reminders of cherished family memories and important geographical connections. A framed copy of The Plain Dealer front page commemorating the 2016 NBA Championship is another key element, included at her husband's insistence. This newspaper article celebrates a significant moment in Cleveland sports history, adding a dynamic and commemorative aspect to the collection. Beneath the gallery wall, a cozy sitting area is bathed in natural light. This space features midcentury-style chairs in a warm hue paired with a gray couch, designed for both admiring the art and relaxation. Schlather emphasizes the functional and inviting nature of this area, noting that the furniture and decor are not overly formal, making it practical for a household with two children. This sitting area is regularly used for enjoying coffee or working, underscoring the blend of aesthetics and utility in her home's design. #ClevelandThemedDecor #GalleryWall #HomeStyle #MidcenturyModern #LocalArt #StrongsvilleHome #HomeDecor #CLEfashionista

A 1930s family home located in Irvington, New York, has been lovingly redesigned to incorporate vintage touches while still respecting its historic status. The interior design studio White Arrow masterfully balanced the past with the present, creating a colonial-style home that is both classically inspired and cozy. The property serves as a case study in effective storage solutions, blending old with new elements, and leveraging color and heritage prints to bring a home to life, embodying a modern farmhouse aesthetic. The mudroom offers the first glimpse into the home's charming color palette. Featuring a heritage-inspired blue that sits between navy and denim, it frames the space without overwhelming it, making a simple storage bench and window a stylish statement. This is balanced by white accents and subtle patterns, creating an inviting area. Farrow & Ball's Stiffkey Blue No. 281 is highlighted as an uplifting shade used in this space. The dining room seamlessly blends new and old elements, adhering to transitional design principles. An antique dining table and vintage-inspired chairs evoke the building's history, complemented by a floral wallpaper. The whimsical print is balanced by a refreshing blue paint on the window and door frames, providing depth and coziness without dominating. Keren Richter, co-founder of White Arrow, emphasizes the immersive feel of the dining room, noting its original built-in cabinetry, scenic wallpaper, statement pendant light, and antique farmhouse table, all visible from the entryway. The entryway, while seemingly simple, features elegant, bespoke touches. Classic white paint creates a soothing atmosphere, allowing the period architectural details such as wood parquet flooring, a quaint round window, and a curved bannister to shine. A textured jute runner contrasts with the smooth floors and white walls, while an antique pendant light and console align with early 20th-century architecture, contributing to a vintage charm. The living room is decorated in a sophisticated blue and white palette, reflecting a heritage-inspired pairing that conveys timelessness. Richter describes the home's eclectic variety of bespoke, vintage, and contemporary pieces, including mid-century Swedish antiques, American Shaker furniture, and exuberant British and Scandinavian textiles. The living room showcases this mix with an array of patterns in armchairs and cushions, lending a whimsical feel balanced by refined velvet textures. The farmhouse kitchen is bright and airy, radiating tranquility through clever built-in cabinetry and sturdy surfaces. Richter explains that the design prioritizes sophistication alongside functionality for a family with three young children, incorporating ample storage, durable fabrics, and a collected mix of new and vintage items. Arabescato marble countertops introduce an alternative texture and pattern, adding a touch of luxury to the white kitchen. Benjamin Moore's Cloud White OC-130 is used for cabinets and walls in various parts of the home, offering a sophisticated off-white shade. A breakfast nook, elegantly situated in the kitchen corner, balances old and new elements with rustic furniture and heritage prints, enhanced by rattan blinds that filter light. The bedroom features an unexpected deep pink palette, creating a moody yet warm and inviting atmosphere. Richter highlights the cozy monochromatic primary bedroom with richly painted Farrow & Ball walls, complemented by bedding, lampshades, and a burgundy-painted Shaker dresser. Sulking Room Pink by Farrow & Ball is noted for its warmth and elegance, ideal for a bedroom. The whimsical floral bedding and Scandinavian geometric rug balance the deep rose paint. The powder room maintains a familiar heritage feel with ditsy wallpaper and brass accents, combining historic charm with a welcoming ambiance. A marble pedestal sink, aged tap, and a 1950s antique mirror enhance its grandeur. This project demonstrates that bold colors and prints can create a soft and livable home, with each room maintaining a unique identity while contributing to a cohesive design through a mix of old and new decor and sophisticated paint shades. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #CountryHomeStyle #VintageDecor #ColorPalette #FarmhouseStyle #TransitionalDesign #HeritagePrints #IrvingtonNewYork

This article details the transformation of a 100-year-old American Craftsman home in the foothills of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains by the design firm Salvesen Graham. The project was initiated when a young couple, one American and one British, relocated from California and sought a home that blended their cultural traditions, offering both relaxation and elegance without being overly formal. The designers, Mary Graham and Nicole Salvesen, aimed to create a comfortable yet sophisticated living space. The house, part of a community of heritage homes dating back to the early 20th century, presented a unique opportunity for Salvesen Graham, a firm more accustomed to working with buildings over 100 years old in the UK. The designers meticulously preserved and enhanced the home's period features, such as its brick and shiplap exterior and expansive veranda. Their approach balanced respect for the original architecture with a desire to update it for modern living, rather than creating a "living museum" of a 1900s mining town house. In the entryway, a small-scale patterned wallpaper contributes to a Victorian aesthetic, complemented by an Arts and Crafts lantern. The designers made a conscious decision to paint some of the original pine woodwork a sage green to neutralize its overwhelming orange tones, allowing the unpainted sections of craftsmanship to be appreciated more easily. This thoughtful intervention highlights the delicate balance between preservation and contemporary adaptation. The drawing room was designed as a sophisticated space for entertaining, with the clients actively participating in sourcing art, including an abstract floral piece. The living room, in contrast, serves as a more casual gathering area. The project was significantly impacted by the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to initial client-designer interactions via Zoom. This period also amplified the British client's desire to infuse English design elements into the American architectural style. A central pass-through space in the house was transformed into a hallway-cum-library, offering an intentional quiet zone that connects different rooms. The kitchen, designed in a Shaker style, bridges functional utilitarianism with English charm. Its formal layout was maintained, rejecting the trend of open-plan spaces, and features fitted units and a large island painted in various shades of blue. The dining room, referred to as the "hearth room," provides an informal dining experience with windows on three sides, creating a sense of dining among treetops. The space incorporates a striped floral fabric for curtains and Roman shades, aligning with painted tongue-and-groove paneling on the ceiling. Upholstered dining chairs, vintage rattan chairs, and a vibrant green built-in window seat contribute to a layered aesthetic. The bedrooms, particularly the master suite, are characterized by a rich interplay of color and pattern, featuring florals, stripes, paisleys, and soft geometrics in a cheerful palette of pinks and greens. Salvesen Graham, founded in London in 2013 by Mary Graham and Nicole Salvesen, is known for its layered aesthetic and timeless approach, aiming to create warm and soft interiors inspired by Georgian England and 18th- and 19th-century Indian textiles, while bringing an edge to quintessential British charm. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #AmericanCraftsman #BritishCharm #SalvesenGraham #ColoradoHomes #HistoricRenovation #TraditionalModern #LayeredAesthetic

The Cochran family, including parents Sheryl and David, and sons Luke and Matt (with wife Courtney), shares a distinct interior design aesthetic characterized by a blend of modern, vintage, and quirky elements. This aesthetic has evolved through their shared love for music, art, and eclectic pieces, with the parents' curated home inspiring their sons' living spaces. David Cochran, an artist, contributes significantly to their art collections, and family painting sessions further enrich their homes' decor. The siblings' individual design choices also influence each other, with new finds by one often sparking ideas for the other. Courtney and Matt Cochran’s historic home in the Fan District, built in 1909, exemplifies this shared style. They meticulously preserved the home's original charm, refinishing floors and retaining existing chandeliers to maintain its inherent grandeur. Their approach to furnishing involved a slow and deliberate process of acquiring pieces from estate sales, antique markets, and local stores like Class and Trash. The entryway features an original crystal chandelier juxtaposed with an industrial console table and an African elephant mask, showcasing their ability to blend diverse styles. The dining and living area combines a West Elm dining table with midcentury modern chairs and a velvet sofa, illuminated by vintage stained-glass panels. The use of subtle color notes and carefully chosen art and decor creates a harmonious space that seamlessly merges new and old. Luke Cochran's South Side Richmond home also reflects the family's aesthetic, with his mother, Sheryl, providing design guidance. Renovations in Luke's home were minimal, primarily focusing on removing walls to create a more open layout, thereby preserving its original character. His design philosophy centers around unique pieces, such as an antique carved wooden cabinet sourced from Circa in Charlottesville, which is contrasted with contemporary gold lamps. The dining room features deep blue walls and modern cabinets, softened by a wooden pantry door from Caravati’s in Ashland. A retrofuturistic Sputnik-inspired light fixture bridges modern features with warm wooden elements, resulting in a refined yet comfortable atmosphere. Across both homes, a consistent theme emerges: the juxtaposition of furniture with eclectic art collections and luxurious mirrors. This common stylistic thread connects the generations, illustrating how a shared passion for design can manifest uniquely in different living spaces while still retaining a familial signature. Each home, while reflecting the individual tastes and travel experiences of its occupants, maintains an inviting ambiance where art, music, and creativity are central to the living experience. This intergenerational influence and the conscious curation of diverse elements define the Cochran family's interior design approach. #homes #interiorDesign #homeDecor #families #antiques #vintageStyle #artCollections #eclecticDecor

The Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum's exhibition, "The Jazz Age: American Style in the 1920s," is presented as the inaugural major museum exhibition focusing on American design trends during the 1920s. Despite its American concentration, the exhibition serves as a dynamic international showcase, reflecting the era's rapid cultural and technological advancements. Sarah Coffin, curator and head of product design and decorative arts at Cooper Hewitt, co-organized the exhibition with Stephen Harrison of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Coffin noted that previous European Art Deco exhibitions often overlooked American contributions. The exhibition's inception stemmed from the discovery of a significant collection of previously underexhibited 1920s materials during the Cooper Hewitt's multi-year renovation, coinciding with the Cleveland Museum of Art's holdings, which include pieces from the influential Paris 1925 International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts. The two-floor exhibition is a visually overwhelming experience, featuring over 400 objects that embody the decadence, novelty, and eclectic styles characteristic of the Roaring Twenties, as described by F. Scott Fitzgerald as an "age of miracles, it was an age of art, it was an age of excess, and it was an age of satire." Organized around themes such as "Bending the Rules" and "Abstraction and Reinvention," the exhibition displays a diverse array of items, including furniture, flapper dresses, paintings, and Prohibition-era cocktail shakers, illustrating the cross-pollination of influences across various artistic media. Many contributing designers were European immigrants or had their works imported, while American designers often studied abroad, incorporating European techniques and aesthetics like tubular metal from the Bauhaus or bold colors from De Stijl. Examples include Ruth Reeves, who studied textiles with Fernand Léger in Paris before working on Radio City Music Hall designs, and Viktor Schreckengost, who blended his Vienna sculpture studies with his Ohio pottery background. Coffin emphasized that the exhibition highlights the vibrant exchange of ideas among designers from different countries converging in American urban centers, leading to an extraordinary amalgamation of modern design thinking on American soil. The installations showcase this international exchange, such as British designer Wells Coates’s Bakelite radio on German designer Kem Weber’s streamlined sideboard, both intended for mass production. Pieces like Russian-born craftsman Samuel Yellin’s wrought iron fire screen alongside Lorentz Kleiser’s tapestry of Newark’s transformation demonstrate the persistence of historical European aesthetics. Architectural influences are also evident, with Austrian émigré Paul Frankl’s "Skyscraper Bookcase" incorporating the zoning-enforced setbacks of new skyscrapers, a motif echoed on a smaller scale in Erik Magnussen’s Cubic coffee service. The exhibition aims to draw connections between objects, illustrating the palette and styles of the era, such as a Jean Dunand enamel vase placed beside a similarly colored dress. It also reveals influences between designers, like Edgar Brandt’s screen impacting the Rose Iron Works of Cleveland, highlighting a continuous artistic dialogue. The exhibition "The Jazz Age: American Style in the 1920s" remains open at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum through August 20. #JazzAge #AmericanDesign #ArtDeco #CooperHewitt #DesignHistory #CulturalExchange #ExhibitionReview #RoaringTwenties #ModernDesign

The article discusses how geographical location within the United States significantly influences interior color preferences, according to designers. Several factors, including local architectural styles, natural environments, and climate, are identified as key drivers behind these regional differences in color choices. The article segments the country into five major regions: Northeast, Midwest, West Coast, Southeast, and Southwest, detailing the distinct color trends prevalent in each. In the Northeast, designers observe a strong inclination towards neutrals, with bolder colors typically taking on a classic feel, such as blues and greens. Experts like Ruth Mottershead from Little Greene highlight Portland Stone as a popular neutral base, while shades like Obsidian Green and Air Force Blue are favored for more colorful applications. Allison Mattison of Trellis Home Design notes that these choices reflect the region's heritage and architectural styles, often incorporating deep navy, forest green, oxblood, and crisp ivory. Darci Hether, an interior designer based in Connecticut and NYC, explains that urban clients often opt for calming and serene colors like cream, gray, and slate blues to counteract the city's fast pace. Joe Waroquier adds that coastal New England, particularly Nantucket, prefers soft, weathered tones resembling driftwood grays, dune beiges, crisp whites, and classic Nantucket blues, which align with local architecture and misty Atlantic light. The Midwest shares similarities with the Northeast, favoring grounded palettes that include earthy neutrals and richer tones. Laura Lubin of Ellerslie Interiors mentions a preference for taupe, deep greens, and warm neutrals suited to the climate and architectural styles like Scandinavian, Prairie, and Craftsman. Behr paint company confirms the popularity of colors such as Muted Sage, Jojoba, North Woods, Vine Leaf, Cherry Cola, and Dark Crimson, indicating a leaning towards natural, earthy hues influenced by the region’s diverse landscapes. The West Coast, especially California, exhibits a more relaxed, sun-washed aesthetic. Staver Gray of Ward + Gray notes the prevalence of soft earth tones, warm terracottas, and faded coastal blues that complement the indoor-outdoor living style. Caitlin Creer observes a preference for 'muddy' earthy colors among her West Coast clients, contrasting with the 'cleaner and crisper shades' favored by her East Coast clientele. Little Greene’s sales data for California shows a trend towards red-based hues like Rolling Fog Light, Mochi, Atomic Red, Bronze Red, China Clay Dark, and Castell Pink, reflecting a preference for warm color schemes. Moving to the Southeast, Allison Mattison describes a softer vibe with airy pastels, powdery blues, warm whites, and soft greens, creating a welcoming and graceful atmosphere reflective of the region’s hospitality. Karen Germond of KMG Design Studio highlights the enduring popularity of blues, particularly along the coast, which evoke the marshlands, ocean, and clear skies, offering a sense of calm and refreshment on hot days. However, in Florida, especially the southern part, colors become much more vibrant and tropical, featuring coral, turquoise, bright citrus, and lush greens, often paired with glossy whites and sleek finishes, reflecting a playful, resort-style energy. Finally, the Southwest, according to Dallas-based designer Lauren Saab of Saab Studios, gravitates towards sunbaked, grounded colors such as terracotta and clay, exemplified by Benjamin Moore’s Cinnamon Slate, and sage green. These choices mirror the desert terrain and glow under golden afternoon light, creating interiors deeply rooted in the landscape. Behr’s top colors for the Southwest also include muted tones like Teton Blue, Jungle Camouflage, and Harvest Brown, reinforcing the preference for natural, earthy palettes. The article concludes by emphasizing that while regional preferences exist, homeowners ultimately should choose colors that reflect their personal taste, regardless of location. #InteriorDesign #ColorTrends #PaintColors #RegionalPreferences #HomeDecor #NortheastDesign #WestCoastStyle #SouthwestPalette #SoutheastHues

Americana style, a design aesthetic deeply rooted in the history and inventiveness of the United States, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. This enduring appeal stems from its youthful modernity and the inherent comfort it evokes, reflecting a nation that had to create its own traditions. Designers David Netto, Anthony Baratta, and Michelle Holland highlight the style's versatility and its ability to blend tradition with modernism, emphasizing its comfortable and approachable nature compared to some European styles. The Colonial Revival architectural style, which gained traction after America's centennial in 1876 and peaked during the post-World War II housing boom, serves as a historical example of Americana's cyclical popularity, often aligning with periods of increased nationalistic sentiment. Eliza Crater Harris of Sister Parish Design also notes the comfort in continuity that Americana traditions offer, likening it to a cherished family quilt that brings a sense of joy, security, and permanence. Several key strategies are recommended for tastefully incorporating Americana into contemporary homes without creating an overtly patriotic or thematic look. First, designers suggest laying a foundation with plain, understated pieces, such as handwoven flatweave rugs with classic patterns and subtle colors. This "plain style" provides a versatile platform that allows for diverse decorative elements to be built upon it, demonstrating a chic simplicity. Second, the integration of primitive pieces with modern geometric forms is encouraged. This approach involves selecting folk art or found objects, like antique overdoor fans or weathervanes, that possess a simple geometry, preventing the space from feeling overly rustic or themed. The emphasis is on a thoughtful mix of high and low elements, aiming for ease and restraint rather than a maximalist display of Americana. Third, celebrating American heritage through handwoven textiles is a highly recommended method. Designers like Baratta advocate for the use of handwoven rugs, hooked rugs as artwork, and quilts displayed on walls, appreciating the craftsmanship involved. Holland particularly suggests hand-loomed stair runners, which not only serve a functional purpose but also act as a cohesive thread for a home's color palette, with their slight imperfections highlighting artisanal creation. Fourth, mixing art with craft is crucial, incorporating quirky antique objects that bridge utility and beauty. This includes bench-made furniture, tramp art mirrors, rag rugs, and woven baskets, reflecting the resourcefulness of early Americans who combined embellishment with function. These intricate pieces are seen as forms of meditation, offering calming focal points within a space. Fifth, designers advise creating a conversation between different eras of Americana, rather than sticking to a single period. This involves blending regional American styles like Victorian, Mission, and Shaker within the same home, fostering a dynamic and layered interior that tells a story. This approach leverages old pieces in clever ways to create a sense of youthfulness and depth, embracing the inherently blended nature of Americana. Sixth, embracing Colonial ingenuity through painted floors is highlighted as a timeless design trick. This cost-effective method can refresh old floors or add character to new ones, with Harris and William Cullum of Jayne Design Studio championing its ability to introduce historic charm and character. Finally, making something for one's home, such as painting furniture or crafting pillows from textiles, is encouraged. This DIY approach allows for personal expression, celebrates one's lifestyle, and removes the pressure of seeking perfection, aligning with a renewed appreciation for cleverness and resourcefulness in design. #AmericanaDecor #HomeDesignTrends #InteriorDecorating #HandwovenTextiles #FolkArt #DesignTips #ColonialRevival #DavidNetto #AnthonyBaratta #MichelleHolland

Selecting the right paint color for a porch is crucial for enhancing a home's curb appeal and maintaining comfort, especially in warmer climates. The chosen color should complement the overall house aesthetic, with front porches often leaning towards traditional hues, while screened-in porches offer more flexibility for playful shades. Light colors are beneficial in hot regions as they reflect sunlight and keep the area cooler. Southern designers often draw inspiration from nature, favoring greens that create a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor spaces. Greens such as Farrow & Ball Bancha, Lichen, Benjamin Moore Peale Green, and Farrow & Ball Green Ground are popular choices. Bancha is ideal for screened porches due to its bold nature, suitable for painting interior walls, ceilings, and trim. For front porches, softer greens like Lichen are recommended for doors, windows, or shutters, while Peale Green is appreciated for its muted sage and olive tones that create a welcoming atmosphere. Green Ground offers a refreshing pop of color against white homes. Calming blues also hold a significant place in Southern porch design, with the traditional "haint blue" porch ceilings, believed by Gullah Geechee communities to ward off spirits and deter insects. Modern interpretations include muted, earthy blues like Valspar Blue Cashmere. Sherwin-Williams Upward, the 2024 Color of the Year, is suggested for porch ceilings to accent the landscape, while Farrow & Ball Borrowed Light is a classic choice for a light blue ceiling, also suitable for painted porch floors and indoor wood flooring. Peach palettes are gaining popularity, particularly Benjamin Moore’s Daytona Peach, which adds a vibrant pop of color without clashing with neutral home exteriors. For bolder or darker houses, a lighter peach shade can create a balanced look. Charleston Green, an almost-black shade, is a versatile choice for furniture or front doors, effectively refreshing antique wicker furniture and highlighting features like joggling boards. Benjamin Moore Black Forest Green, Sherwin-Williams Jasper, and Sherwin-Williams Greenblack are comparable options. Muddy-toned neutrals are practical for porch floors, as they effectively hide dirt and dust without absorbing excessive heat. Sherwin-Williams Mushroom provides a warm blend of cream, brown, and gray, offering subtle contrast. Benjamin Moore Harwood Putty mimics a whitewash effect with a slight blue tint, suitable for primary exteriors or small details. Benjamin Moore Stone offers a moodier brownish-gray. Grant Beige by Benjamin Moore is a versatile neutral that complements both red brick and white wood exteriors. For those seeking deeper, more dramatic tones, moodier greens and blues offer striking contrast. Farrow & Ball Studio Green, an extra-deep dark green, creates beautiful outdoor rooms and harmonizes with natural wood and copper lighting. Benjamin Moore Deep River, a gray-green, provides a cozy retreat. Farrow & Ball Drawing Room Blue is a rich, timeless blue that makes a statement while serving as a backdrop for bolder accents. Benjamin Moore Hale Navy is a widely favored navy that suits various applications, from screened porches to painted floors. #PorchPaintColors #SouthernDesign #HomeExterior #OutdoorLiving #PaintTrends #CurbAppeal #GreenPaint #BluePaint #NeutralTones

The Art Deco era, characterized by sleek lines, geometric shapes, and a sense of glamour and glitz, continues to influence modern interior design. This aesthetic is experiencing a notable resurgence, with many designers and homeowners incorporating its elements into contemporary living spaces. Pinterest, a key platform for design trends, has identified the Art Deco revival as a significant trend to watch, highlighting a growing interest in this opulent style. This article explores various ways to infuse Art Deco charm into a living room, drawing inspiration from archived designs and recent decorator show houses. Several examples illustrate the versatility of Art Deco in different settings. In an Atlanta home designed by Yong Pak and Melanie Turner, chevron stripes on a rug and a crystal chandelier in the living room evoke a Gatsby-esque atmosphere. At the Kips Bay Decorator Show House in Palm Beach, Marshall Watson & Reid Deane Ganes created a tropical Art Deco paradise using retro palm frond wallpaper, geometric rattan furniture, and abstract wall art, demonstrating how the style can be adapted to specific themes. Jan Showers brought glitz to a Kips Bay Dallas lounge with a gilded de Gournay wallcovering, and strategically placed back-to-back settees to encourage conversation, inspired by Hubert de Givenchy’s Paris townhouse. Further examples showcase the breadth of Art Deco applications. Eddie Maestri's music room at the Kips Bay Decorator Show House Dallas embodies the Jazz Age with streamlined accents and a geometric bar. Janine Carendi MacMurray's design in an 1845 Greek Revival home successfully integrates avant-garde art and artistic rugs, reflecting the abstract art trends of the Roaring Twenties. A 1920s Atlanta home, updated by Huff-Dewberry, Inc., embraces its original era with velvet pieces and a gilded mirror, highlighting the enduring appeal of vintage glamour. Natasha Baradaran’s living space at the 2022 Kips Bay Decorator Show House in Dallas features a circular sofa, glass-topped coffee table, and a glamorous chandelier, showcasing a sophisticated interpretation of the style. Anna Brockway, co-founder of Chairish, designed a vintage-inspired living room with an Art Deco black table, fringed velvet sofa, and shapely artwork, demonstrating how individual pieces can contribute to the overall aesthetic. Steven Gambrel’s approach to a 1920s New Jersey estate involves linear furnishings and brass accents, offering a more neutral and subtle take on Art Deco. Mary McDonald and Daniel Kahan updated another 1920s estate with curved geometric shapes and modern-meets-vintage furniture, emphasizing the dramatic flair inherent in the style. Lastly, Norman Askins’s design for a Georgia home features a diminutive seating area with a fringed settee and a brass-tipped glass table, subtly incorporating Deco classics, while Caroline Gidiere's Georgian-style home includes a formal seating area with a lacquered coffee table and gilded mirror, providing a poised, traditional slant on Art Deco. #ArtDeco #LivingRoomDesign #InteriorDesignTrends #GlamourousDecor #RoaringTwenties #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration #VintageStyle #KipsBayDecoratorShowHouse

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

The article explores six architectural trends that are expected to define home design in 2025, emphasizing a shift towards more thoughtful and lasting styles rather than fleeting fads accelerated by social media. Architects observe a growing dissatisfaction with mass-produced, trend-driven designs like the modern farmhouse and advocate for more unique and historically informed approaches. The evolving trend cycle, influenced by digital platforms and home-improvement media, has led to an overabundance of certain styles, prompting a desire for change among design professionals and homeowners alike. The insights provided by four architects highlight key areas of transformation in residential architecture. One significant trend is Natural Modernism, characterized by an increased integration of natural elements such as large windows, raw materials like wood, steel, and stone, and nature-inspired color palettes. This approach aims to foster a stronger connection between inhabitants and their natural surroundings in an increasingly digital world. Another emerging trend focuses on Historical Character, moving away from monochromatic, overdone styles like the white farmhouse with black windows. There is a renewed interest in incorporating more color and drawing inspiration from diverse historical architectural styles, such as modern industrial, modern Tudor, and a sleeker interpretation of French Country, with regional variations in popularity. The article suggests that historical context plays a crucial role in the relevance of these styles. Additionally, there is a noted appreciation for 1920s Details, reflecting a renewed interest in the craftsmanship and elegant restraint of early modernism. This trend involves sculptural forms, minimal detailing, and the use of natural materials like wood, stone, and brick, often complemented by tile or metal roofs. A notable departure from recent open-concept living is the return to Closed Floor Plans. Architects observe a movement toward more defined spaces, where rooms like formal dining areas are re-evaluated, and kitchens are often designated as separate, distinct zones for cooking, while larger rooms accommodate various gathering activities. The concept of Third Spaces at Home also gains prominence, addressing a perceived lack of communal spaces outside the home. This trend involves creating dedicated areas within the residence for activities previously conducted externally, such as guest accommodations, storage for sports equipment, home gyms, and specialized workspaces, reflecting evolving lifestyle needs. Finally, a strong emphasis on American-Made Materials is highlighted. Triggered by past supply chain disruptions and geopolitical factors, there is a growing consciousness among clients and designers to source building materials domestically. This shift not only supports local economies but also helps reduce construction timelines due to shorter shipping distances and a focus on locally sourced goods like wood, stone, and metal. These trends collectively indicate a move towards more authentic, functional, and enduring architectural designs. #ArchitectureTrends #HomeDesign #NaturalModernism #HistoricalCharacter #ClosedFloorPlans #ThirdSpaces #AmericanMadeMaterials #InteriorDesign #Craftsmanship

The practice of displaying art against curtained or upholstered walls is gaining traction in home design, blending modern aesthetics with the luxurious, layered look reminiscent of the Victorian Era. This trend is a departure from traditional white walls, offering homeowners new ways to personalize their spaces and engage with their art. Susan Barrett, president of Barrett Barrera Projects, advocates for this approach, viewing it as an exciting method for individuals to incorporate art into their daily lives. She notes that this style echoes historical preferences, such as art displayed against silk-covered walls, tapestries, or murals, creating a fresh aesthetic through the interaction of varied patterns and textures. Barrett, a proponent of maximalism, appreciates the dynamic interplay between these elements, suggesting that hanging art over murals or tapestries allows different design components to converse with each other rather than having one dominate the visual space. To enhance this layered effect, she often uses picture shelves in her exhibition spaces, providing both dimension and flexibility for rearranging artwork. For those inspired to adopt this design technique, creating cohesion and visual interest is key. Barrett suggests using a consistent ribbon, such as thick satin or grosgrain, to hang multiple pieces of art. This not only unifies the display but also introduces an additional layer of texture and decoration. She emphasizes the value of experimentation in wall ornamentation, believing that viewing art from novel perspectives can deepen appreciation. This method encourages homeowners to break away from conventional display norms and explore creative ways to integrate art into their living environments, fostering a more engaging and personal connection with their collections. Aaron Dains, from St. Louis Art Installers, confirms the rising popularity of this trend, though he notes it's not yet widespread. He observes that antique-style gold frames and oil landscapes, with their distinct brushstrokes, are particularly effective when juxtaposed against fabric backdrops, as the textural contrast enhances both the art and the wall covering. Dains highlights the importance of meticulous planning and execution, especially when dealing with delicate surfaces like upholstered or suede-covered walls, where minimizing marks and nail holes is critical for a polished finish. His team employs precise techniques, such as using laser levels to pinpoint exact hanging locations, ensuring that only necessary marks are made. While the installation of art against fabric-covered walls may require professional assistance for many homeowners, both Barrett and Dains encourage a playful and flexible attitude towards home decor. They emphasize that such design choices are reversible, allowing individuals to experiment without the commitment of major renovations. The underlying message is to enjoy the process of decorating, embrace different styles, and view art as a dynamic element within the home that can be rearranged and reinterpreted over time. This experimental approach allows homeowners to discover what truly resonates with their personal style and enhances their living spaces. #HomeDecor #ArtDisplay #InteriorDesignTrends #VictorianInfluence #Maximalism #TexturalDesign #ArtInstallation #HomeStyling #CreativeLiving

Vintage paint colors are experiencing a resurgence, offering a way to infuse interiors with charm and character, whether in traditional or modern homes. These colors, often inspired by historical periods, are perennially popular with interior designers, with many paint companies developing heritage palettes. While paint colors typically fluctuate in popularity, experts highlight specific vintage shades poised for a comeback this year, moving away from cooler contemporary trends towards warmer, more authentic hues. Historically, interior paint finishes were hand-mixed using natural pigments like ground earth, minerals, and vegetables, resulting in a more mellow and nuanced texture compared to today's vibrant synthetic paints. The availability and affordability of earth pigments like ochre, sienna, and umber made them commonplace, with brighter mineral pigments reserved for the wealthy. The 20th century, with its advancements in synthetic pigments and titanium dioxide, brought a broader spectrum of vibrant colors to the masses. Despite this, vintage colors are generally characterized by their subdued nature, a reflection of their traditional origins. Different eras favored distinct palettes: Georgian interiors often featured pea green, sky blue, and pastels, while the Regency period leaned towards rich reds, greens, and yellows. Victorians embraced deep reds, browns, and dark greens. Mid-century modern design often used neutral backdrops complemented by bold primary colors, mustard yellows, teals, and oranges in furnishings, alongside light pinks, blues, and corals. Today, a wealth of modern paints draw inspiration from these vintage colors, with brands like Farrow & Ball and Little Greene looking to period homes for their palettes. When selecting interior paint colors, factors such as room size, orientation, lighting, and personal feelings are crucial. While avoiding fleeting trends is generally advised in favor of colors that suit the architecture and personal preferences, exploring current color trends can provide valuable inspiration for decorating projects. According to color experts, warm earthy shades are leading the comeback. This includes soft, mellow yellows evolving into rich mustard and golden hues with ochre undertones, as well as terracotta and various browns. Earthy pinks and peach tones, reminiscent of fresh plaster or sun-drenched Mediterranean buildings, and even retro 80s interiors, are also seeing a revival. Additionally, 'grubby' greens, characterized by black and umber undertones, are making a return, including mossy and drab olive shades that evoke Victorian aesthetics. A more surprising trend is the re-emergence of vibrant acid greens from the 1960s and 70s. Francesca Wezel, a color expert and founder of Francesca’s Paints, emphasizes that this revival isn't just about replication but reinterpreting past looks with a fresh, modern sensibility, creating spaces that are both stylish and personal. Specific vintage paint colors highlighted include light buttery yellows, evoking Italian architecture and 1950s kitchens, which add a warm, uplifting, and joyful ambiance to spaces like kitchens or hallways. Brands like Sherwin-Williams and Behr are featuring these shades, noting their ability to act as vibrant accents or brighten smaller rooms. Sandy and gold ochre hues are also gaining popularity, reflecting a desire for grounding, comforting, and nature-connected spaces. Benjamin Moore's Summerdale Gold, a grounded honey gold with green undertones, is presented as a confident yet calming choice that pairs well with tactile materials. Sherwin-Williams' Quilt Gold, reminiscent of 1970s retro design, is seen as an excellent playful accent. Grounding browns, including chocolate, cinnamon, and terracotta, are proving irresistible for their ability to bring rich, cocooning warmth and a moody, vintage feel, transitioning from dated 1970s associations to contemporary interiors that value natural materials. Plaster pink and peach tones, with their warm terracotta shades, offer rustic charm and a Mediterranean touch, with brands like Edward Bulmer Natural Paint and Farrow & Ball showcasing these soft, versatile colors as flattering neutrals. 'Grubby' greens, defined by black or brown undertones, provide an aged, mellow, and nostalgic feel, with COAT Paints noting a shift towards these earthy greens. Finally, retro teals, popular in Mid-century Modern palettes, are making a comeback for their ability to create a luxurious and inviting vintage atmosphere when paired with creamy whites, earthy ochres, and terracottas. Acid greens, particularly zingy limes from the 1950s and 60s, are also on the rise, offering vibrant and energizing options for the color-confident, as highlighted by Farrow & Ball and Behr, for accent walls or color-drenched spaces. Embracing these vintage colors ensures a timeless scheme that adapts as tastes and trends evolve. #VintagePaintColors #InteriorDesign #ColorTrends #NostalgicDecor #EarthyTones #RetroStyle #HomeDecor #PaintPalettes #DesignInspiration

This article explores the New York home of Mark and Renee Rockefeller, focusing on its unique interior design that blends classic elegance with modern and eclectic elements, despite a predominantly neutral color palette. The residence is the former Park Avenue duplex maisonette of William F. Buckley and his wife Pat, a space originally known for its high style and entertaining capabilities. The current inhabitants, Mark and Renee Rockefeller, have transformed it into a lively family home for their four young children, challenging its conventional layout by, for instance, combining maid's rooms into bedrooms to accommodate their family life. This transformation highlights a design philosophy that prioritizes coziness and functionality while maintaining aesthetic sophistication. The initial planning for the renovation was conducted with Annabelle Selldorf, who contributed to the design of a family kitchen. Subsequently, architect and decorator Daniel Romualdez, a previous collaborator with the Rockefellers, took over the project. Romualdez recognized the inherent qualities of the Buckley maisonette and aimed for a subtle, layered interior rather than a complete overhaul. The design concept revolves around a light and neutral palette of beige, cream, and bone, which serves as a backdrop to the family's art collection and vibrant daily life. This approach counters the common perception of neutral interiors as predictable or bland, instead infusing the space with a sense of boldness and adventure through unexpected combinations and textures. Specific design choices illustrate this unique approach. In the living room, original moldings are preserved but abstracted by covering the entire room in faux suede, inspired by historic upholstered rooms. The dining room, grand in scale, was made more intimate through the use of upholstery. Romualdez commissioned textile designer Carolina Irving to create a custom fabric for the dining room walls, enlarging a tiny Javanese batik print to a monumental scale and complementing it with a diagonally printed border, giving the room the discipline of paneling with a unique textile application. This detail-oriented approach ensures that even with a neutral base, each room presents a distinct and engaging character. The apartment also houses significant artworks and furniture, many of which are heirlooms from Nelson Rockefeller's legendary Fifth Avenue apartment, designed by Wallace K. Harrison and Jean-Michel Frank in 1937. This collection includes pieces by Giacometti, Matisse, Léger, and a centerpiece Picasso tapestry of “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon,” commissioned by Nelson Rockefeller himself. The tapestry, created with Picasso's direct involvement in selecting wool tufts, is one of three versions made, reflecting a blend of artistic vision, business acumen, and political strategy. Further inspirations come from other Rockefeller family homes, such as David Rockefeller's library, known for its welcoming English pine paneling. Mark and Renee's library features oak paneling with intentionally chosen imperfect veneers, a decision reflecting a willingness to embrace perceived flaws for a more authentic result. The article emphasizes that the apartment's distinctive outcome is a collaborative effort, much like the Modernist designs of Nelson Rockefeller's era, showcasing a taste for adventure in interior design. Despite housing priceless art and residing in a superb architectural setting, the apartment maintains a strong sense of being a functional family home. This is exemplified by anecdotes of children playing lacrosse in the entrance hall, underscoring that the space is lived in and enjoyed, carrying forward a family tradition of warmth and usability amidst grandeur. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryLiving #RockefellerFamily #ArtCollection #ModernistDesign #NeutralPalette #NewYorkRealEstate #ArchitecturalRenovation

Master florist Jennifer Figge reimagines four iconic 20th-century American interior designs through the art of floral arrangements. The article highlights how Figge channels the distinctive aesthetics of renowned designers and their famous spaces, translating their unique styles into imaginative botanical compositions. The first reinterpretation focuses on Brooke Astor’s Park Avenue library, designed by Albert Hadley. This setting, known for its opulent livability, features sang de boeuf enamel walls, brass trim, and an extensive 3,000-volume book collection. Figge’s arrangement for this space incorporates oxblood ranunculus to echo the glossy, floor-to-ceiling bookcases, blush hellebores to introduce a playful femininity, and an aged brass vase that subtly references the room's jewellike trim. The floral design captures the sophisticated and refined atmosphere of Hadley’s work, making it suitable for receiving distinguished guests. Next, the article explores Michael Taylor’s guest bedroom in San Francisco, emblematic of his "California look." Taylor's signature style emphasizes elemental beauty and restraint, utilizing organic elements such as a log canopy bed, Yosemite Slate flooring, Italian wicker, and lush alder trees against a serene white backdrop. Figge's floral response to this design employs complex materials like velveteen wisteria seedpods, spherical Bishop’s Balls, and blooming star-of-Bethlehem. These choices mirror Taylor’s immortal sense of balance and his ability to create a visually rich yet understated environment where more layers of detail emerge upon closer inspection. Dorothy Draper’s "Gutsy Glamour" is brought to life through her most famous design playground, The Greenbrier. Here, aqua-striped wallpaper harmonizes with rhododendron patterns on the sofa and carpet, creating a vibrant and confident scheme. Figge’s arrangement for this space is as fiercely vivid as Draper’s aesthetic, featuring commanding red dahlias, lilac sweet peas, and umbrella ferns. This floral composition boldly reimagines the loud, active, and colorful combinations that were hallmarks of Draper’s design philosophy. Finally, the article delves into Mark Hampton’s inviting elegance as seen in a 1980s New York dining room. Hampton's design incorporated chintz and treillage to evoke an English garden enchantment, serving as an airy backdrop for antique porcelain and silver collections. Figge’s reinterpretation creates a romantic idyll with peach dahlias, lavender cosmos, and periwinkle blue lace flowers. The arrangement highlights old-fashioned David Austin Sweet Juliet roses, which are presented as the true stars, embodying the delicate charm and transportive quality of Hampton’s design. This particular piece captures the blend of classic beauty and understated luxury that characterized Hampton's approach. #FloralArrangements #InteriorDesign #20thCenturyDesign #BrookeAstor #AlbertHadley #MichaelTaylor #DorothyDraper #MarkHampton #HomeDecor #LuxuryLifestyle