If These Walls Could Talk

The concept of a 'gallery wall' traditionally evokes images of framed family photos, but this article expands that notion to encompass a diverse array of objects and styles, transforming walls into dynamic displays of personal expression and decorative flair. The article showcases various innovative approaches to wall decoration, moving beyond conventional framed art. One featured idea involves industrial-style oversized clocks, demonstrating how functional items can be repurposed as impactful decorative elements. This approach is exemplified by a display at N. Reding and Sons Vintage Industrial Uniques, where multiple large clocks create a timely and visually striking statement. Another technique highlighted is the use of mirrors. A Birmingham home, designed by Corey Damen Jenkins, incorporates a collection of antique and vintage-inspired mirrors, which collectively create a 'serious pop' on the wall, adding depth and reflecting light to enhance the room's aesthetic. Beyond traditional décor, the article explores more unconventional options like wall planters. Glazed ceramic wallscape pots, available in various sizes, can be arranged to form a 'garden gallery wall,' effectively bringing nature indoors and turning plants into living art pieces. This method offers a refreshing alternative to static wall art and introduces organic textures and colors into the living space. A particularly creative example is presented from Art Van's new store in Canton, where hundreds of white melamine plates are arranged to form a large-scale collage. Leah Zanetti, Art Van's director of graphics, explains the challenge of finding lightweight dinnerware suitable for vertical mounting. The installation process, carried out by Detroit's Prop Art Studio, involved drilling tiny pins into the back of each plate and cup, which were then mounted to the wall with silicone. This intricate display creates a unique focal point in the dining area, demonstrating how everyday objects can be elevated into significant artistic installations. The article also includes examples from Ashley Furniture, which utilizes a mix of oversized art and various wall décor items to craft a 'cool collage,' suggesting that varied scales and textures can contribute to an engaging display. For those who prefer a more classic approach, a dining room wall featuring a collage of family photos is also shown, acknowledging the enduring appeal of personal photographic displays. Tips for creating an effective gallery wall are also provided, including advice from interior stylist Kirsten Grove of 'Simply Styling.' She recommends maintaining a spacing of 4 to 5 inches between standard-sized frames to ensure a cohesive and balanced arrangement. The article further diversifies its suggestions by presenting a gallery wall made from scarves, offering a soft, textile-based alternative to framed items, and a display of vintage artwork, which can add character and a sense of history to a space. Lastly, the article notes the availability of a wide range of oversized clocks at retailers like Pier 1 Imports, emphasizing the accessibility of diverse decorative elements for creating impactful wall displays. Overall, the article aims to inspire readers to think creatively about wall decoration, encouraging them to use a variety of objects to personalize and enhance their living environments. #InteriorDesign #WallDecor #GalleryWall #HomeStyling #CreativeDecor #HomeAccessories #ArtisticDisplay #DIYHomeDecor

Kelly Killoren Bensimon, a former star of “Real Housewives of New York City” and a Douglas Elliman Real Estate agent, offers an exclusive tour of her loft-style apartment in The Police Building in downtown Manhattan. This historic landmark, once the New York Police Department’s headquarters, has been converted into residences and has housed numerous A-list celebrities. Bensimon, who has resided in various apartments within this gilded property over decades, expresses her affection for the building’s ambiance and its vibrant location, highlighting the illustrious individuals who have lived there, including Calvin Klein, Steffi Graf, Christy Turlington, and Linda Evangelista. She emphasizes the rich history embedded within the walls, noting that if they could speak, they would reveal countless stories from the "supermodels, super elite, best bankers, designers, and artisans" who have passed through or resided in the building. As the building’s broker specialist, Bensimon feels privileged to live and work in such a distinguished location at 240 Centre Street. Upon entering, residents are greeted by an ornate Beaux-Arts lobby featuring hand-sculpted ornamental ceilings, a grand staircase, marble columns, and grand crystal chandeliers. Bensimon’s two-bedroom apartment mirrors this classic, old-world aesthetic but incorporates a French influence. Her living room features a towering mirror wall with grey accents, which she believes creates a "very Parisian vibe" and simultaneously expands the space while making it feel cozy. For the interior design, Bensimon collaborated with celebrity-loved creative consultant Gregory Bissonnette, resulting in a space that boldly mixes bright colors and varied textures. The apartment showcases an array of artworks, including pieces by Julian Schnabel and Ghada Amer. A particularly cherished item is a painting by one of her daughters, displayed in a Chrome Hearts frame, adding a personal and sentimental touch. Another meaningful piece is a reclaimed Parsons table from her parents’ Illinois home, which she uses to display coffee table books, lamps, vases, and other artistic curiosities. A prominent feature in the room is a large horse statue from the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, a gift from Anna Wintour, and adorned with a leather saddle from the late Italian fashion executive Carla Fendi. Bensimon’s marble breakfast table is surrounded by 18th-century dining chairs from her ex-husband Gilles Bensimon’s family art collection, resting on a soft pink carpet from fellow "RHONY" alum Jill Zarin’s homeware brand. Her real estate success is marked by a shelf filled with Moët & Chandon Champagne bottles, each representing a home sale, which she hopes to open for a future celebration. The primary bedroom is bright and airy, with ample natural light, an en-suite bathroom, and a dedicated wall for her extensive designer purse collection. This collection includes a Louis Vuitton handbag from her time as editor of Elle Accessories and a gold Tom Ford clutch worn to the 2023 Oscars. Among her favorite bedroom items are a black-and-white Chanel throw blanket and a KAWS sculpture gifted by Karl Lagerfeld. She also highlights her dog, Tarzan, as a resident of this "iconic room," emphasizing the collection of items that represent various aspects of her life. The second bedroom, lofted above the living area and accessed by a sleek white staircase, further showcases the apartment’s unique layout. Bensimon proudly displays her "unbelievable" closet space, which includes a dedicated shoe closet. She showcases her vast footwear collection, pointing out a gold pair of Tom Ford stilettos worn to BravoCon, noting that many shoes evoke special memories. Ingeniously, Bensimon has repurposed Hermès scarves into decorative pillows and framed wall art, injecting pops of color and texture while transforming luxury items into functional decor. She even uses a jumbo Hermès Birkin bag as a throw pillow holder, a versatile item that also accompanies her to the Hamptons. Ultimately, Bensimon advises that creating a home is about "decorating and living with what you love," defining this as the "ultimate lifestyle." #KellyBensimon #PoliceBuilding #ManhattanApartment #InteriorDesign #LuxuryLiving #RealEstate #CelebrityHomes #NewYorkCity

The article explores how colour can significantly impact home spaces, drawing inspiration from the vibrant seasonal colours of the Indian subcontinent. It features insights from leading architects and designers who share their projects and strategies for incorporating colour effectively throughout the year. The piece highlights four distinct projects, each demonstrating a unique approach to colour application in residential design. The first project, 'Rose Milk House' by 85:15 in Chennai, designed by Vaishali Srinivasan for her parents, emphasizes contextually-rooted spaces with a lived-in appeal. The design is inspired by 1990s government quarters and incorporates personal details like French red wardrobes, laminated finishes, and traditional textiles. A prominent feature is a bold band of green lime plaster that interacts with daylight to reveal varied textures. Srinivasan advises using personal keepsakes, art, and textiles to discover a colour palette that resonates with individual tastes, ensuring spaces feel uniquely personal. The second project, 'The Leftovers' by MuseLAB in Mumbai, is a 2,200 sq.ft. apartment redesigned for art and design enthusiasts. Principal architects Huzefa Rangwala and Jasem Pirani utilized colour-blocking to create a neo-vintage gallery-like atmosphere. A terracotta ceiling warms communal areas, while bedrooms feature signature hues, such as a dramatic indigo cascading from ceiling to wall to highlight artwork. Rangwala emphasizes that colours are integrated with the family's cherished possessions, making colour a language for expressing their story. MuseLAB suggests starting with subtle elements like furnishings and textiles, and experimenting with tonal variations. The studio currently favors dusky pinks, powder blues, and olive greens for their sophisticated and adaptable qualities. The third project, 'The Deco Haus' by Chestnut Storeys in Chennai, is a 7,000 sq.ft. private residence where principal designer Farah Agarwal blends contemporary design with the home's historic integrity. The design strategy involves balancing statement accents against subdued neutrals. A neutral base for the walls allows bold pops of colour to be introduced through furniture, sculptural inserts, or accent walls in deep greens. Agarwal notes that this approach creates a visual rhythm and incorporates personal elements like art and photographs. She recommends embracing jewel tones, blending muted pastels with bolder shades, and incorporating earthy hues such as ochre, moss, and terracotta. Additionally, Agarwal highlights the importance of texture, suggesting woven fabrics, metallic accents, and natural materials to add dimension. The final project, 'Jade' by The Arch Studio in Pune, is a 1,750 sq.ft. apartment designed by Siddhina Sakla. Her work is characterized by warmth, cultural resonance, and functionality, using vibrant, soothing tones like soft yellows and deep greens through paint, fabrics, and finishes to create emotionally rich spaces. In 'Jade,' colour serves as a visual bookmark, providing an individualistic persona that is further enhanced by textiles, bespoke drapery, traditional Lakkadhaara furniture, and gold-accented ceilings. Sakla's approach aims to move away from sterile whites, creating colourful, personalized homes that reflect comfort, utility, and nostalgia. She advises choosing a champion hue and building a palette from there, blending subtle patterns and coloured accents through upholstery, vintage finds, or wall mouldings, and using curtains or lighting to add colour year-round. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColourPalette #ArchitecturalDesign #ResidentialDesign #IndianDesign #MuseLAB #ChestnutStoreys #TheArchStudio

The article explores Baileyana Park, a historic Hillsborough estate with a rich Hollywood legacy, now owned and meticulously updated by designer Simona Irwin. Originally conceived as a compound by the renowned "King of Comedy," Mack Sennett, the property served as a secluded retreat for Hollywood stars and San Francisco socialites alike. Sennett, famous for his silent movies and an honorary Academy Award recipient, frequently entertained celebrity friends such as Bing Crosby, Charlie Chaplin, and W.C. Fields at this residence, a fact substantiated by archival photographs and Sennett's autobiography. The estate's centerpiece is an extraordinary swimming pool, a rarity for its time, featuring hand-cut Italian tiles that extend from the surface to the bottom. Simona Irwin, who shares the home with her venture capitalist husband, Scott Irwin, and their three daughters, highlights that the pool’s design creates an immediate vacation atmosphere and its sun-drenched position ensures usability throughout the day. When Irwin acquired the property 12 years ago, she undertook a retrofitting of the pool, carefully preserving its original handmade Italian tiles, maintaining its historical appearance as seen in Sennett's "Bathing Beauties" silent movie series, many of which were filmed on site. The home itself exudes the glamorous and cinematic aesthetic reminiscent of 1940s Hollywood Hills residences, making the most of natural light. Beyond the pool, the estate is distinguished by its expansive multi-level gardens, terraces, and numerous entrances. Two ancient redwood trees majestically frame one of the property's entrances, a site so iconic that locals often visit to photograph themselves with the gate and trees as a backdrop. The design seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor living, with large sliding glass doors in the living room opening onto a vast terrace overlooking the pool, offering residents a sense of complete privacy and relaxation. The estate features three distinct entrances, each with its own character: the main entrance framed by redwoods, and two side entrances adorned with mature trees and classic French chateau-style gates. A dedicated section of the house, complete with its own entrance and pathway to the pool house and swimming pool, is designed for the children, allowing for family entertainment without disturbing other areas of the home. Simona Irwin's design philosophy is deeply influenced by her upbringing, her mother and grandmother's appreciation for beauty, and her experiences living abroad, particularly her years in Paris. She applies a fashion-like approach to interior design, emphasizing the harmonious blend of color and texture, and prioritizing natural light and a welcoming aesthetic over heavy, overpowering elements. Despite adding a significant amount of square footage to the house during renovations, Irwin ensured that the additions blended seamlessly with the original structure, making it difficult to distinguish between old and new. This meticulous approach has allowed her to modernize the historic property for contemporary standards while preserving its original character, ensuring its continued status as a cherished part of old Hillsborough. #HomeDesign #HistoricEstate #HollywoodLegacy #InteriorDesign #LuxuryLiving #OutdoorSpaces #ArchitecturalRenovation #CaliforniaHomes #SimonaIrwin

Anne-Marie Eddy, owner of ReFabulous Decor in Vineyard Haven, transforms vintage furniture and household items through upcycling, giving them new life and purpose. Initially trained in corporate sales, Eddy, along with her husband Jim Eddy, first established Big Sky Tents in 1998 on Martha's Vineyard. Her creative pursuits led her to discover Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, known for its ease of use without priming or sanding, non-toxic properties, and quick drying time. This discovery prompted her to begin painting furniture in her own home, eventually inspiring her to open ReFabulous Decor in June 2013. ReFabulous Decor, which has relocated twice and is now situated at the corner of Main and Union streets, serves as both a retail store and studio. Eddy sources her pieces from various places, including yard sales, the Chicken Alley Thrift Store in Vineyard Haven, and estate sales conducted by Rush & Fisher auctioneers. She also has loyal customers who assist her in finding suitable items. Her selection criteria prioritize good quality pieces at affordable prices to ensure accessibility for Islanders. During her work, Eddy sometimes uncovers hidden treasures within the furniture, such as old notes from the 1940s, photographs, and pocket change, which adds to the historical narrative of each piece. The business plays a role in the local community by providing an affordable option for Islanders to acquire unique, beautiful furniture and to update their existing decor. Eddy emphasizes that many pieces have undergone an "Island shuffle," and her work helps them find a permanent home. Her most popular product is Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, with neutral colors like Old White and Paris Grey being the most requested. Customers are increasingly experimenting with color mixing for custom looks. The "driftwood" aesthetic is a particularly popular choice among clients, achieved through blending neutral tones with a damp cloth. ReFabulous Decor also offers a wider range of decorative finishes, top coats, metallics, glazes, and colored waxes to support further customization. The store also functions as a space for local artists to display and sell their work. Eddy and her staff offer personalized consultations, helping customers visualize how to restore their furniture using paint samples and providing advice on various techniques. They utilize social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and their website to educate customers through videos and tips. The store also offers a wide array of DIY tools, including Miss Mustard Seed Milk Paint, Saltwash for a sun-and-salt-wash effect, Prima Marketing mixed-media supplies, and Iron Orchid Designs products such as decor stamps, transfers, molds, and rollers. Additionally, they carry the General Finishes line of glazes, pearlized finishes, and topcoat sealers. The shop provides unique stencils and brushes, offers hands-on stenciling instructions, and rents out stencils for projects, alongside free in-store demonstrations of their DIY products. ReFabulous Decor also takes custom furniture orders and sells handcrafted jewelry and other home decor items. #furnitureUpcycling #DIYHomeDecor #AnnieSloanChalkPaint #vintageFurniture #Martha'sVineyardBusiness #refurbishedDecor #creativeEntrepreneurship #sustainableLiving #localBusiness

The article explores the emerging interior design trend of grid walls, contrasting them with traditional gallery walls and offering insights from prominent designers. While gallery walls often feature a spontaneous arrangement of varied frames, grid walls emphasize uniformity, with identical, equally spaced frames creating an ordered, grid-like pattern. This design approach brings a sense of order and symmetry to a space, allowing for personal expression within a structured framework. Designers Bria Hammel and Nadia Watts highlight the visual intrigue and soothing repetition that grid walls offer, comparing their effect to that of wallpaper. Watts notes the 'quiet power in their order that truly anchors a room.' The popularity of grid walls aligns with a broader shift in design towards maximalism with a touch of tradition, seen in trends like color-drenching and skirted furniture. Unlike disparate displays that feed into a 'more-is-more' mentality, grid walls introduce a sense of decorum and sophistication. Danielle Domingues of Collins & Co. Interiors points out that grid walls refocus attention on the content within the frames, particularly family portraits, allowing them to be displayed in a timeless and elegant manner. This trend is versatile and suitable for modern, minimalist, or traditional homes where symmetry is valued. To create an effective grid wall, designers recommend careful planning. Bria Hammel advises laying out frames on the floor first to determine optimal spacing and emphasizes avoiding overcrowding while maintaining consistent frame sizes for symmetry. Marea Clark and Tami Ramsay demonstrate how the layout can be adapted to specific room needs, whether grouping pieces tightly over a sofa or spacing them out above a wide headboard. Precision is crucial, with every inch mattering. Nadia Watts suggests using a minimum of four pieces to achieve a balanced and intentional grid, with uniform frame sizes establishing visual rhythm and structure. To minimize visual clutter, simple frames are preferred, allowing the artwork or photographs to take center stage. Domingues favors slim 25-inch-by-25-inch frames from Pottery Barn for a sleek, modern look. As for content, Zoë Feldman suggests black and white photography or art presented in diptychs or triptychs to enhance clarity and allow the art to speak without distraction. Watts adds that consistency in color palette, subject matter, or artistic style helps unify the overall look, making the grid wall appear thoughtfully curated. Ultimately, the goal of a grid wall is to tell a personal story through an organized and aesthetically pleasing display. #GridWalls #GalleryWalls #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #SymmetryInDesign #PictureFrames #VisualIntrigue #DecoratingIdeas

The article introduces grid walls as a rising interior design trend, poised to replace the traditional gallery wall. Unlike the often eclectic and spontaneous arrangements of gallery walls, grid walls emphasize uniformity, featuring identical frames equally spaced to create an organized, grid-like pattern. Design experts, including Bria Hammel and Nadia Watts, highlight that this design approach brings a sense of order, symmetry, and quiet power to a space, anchoring the room with a balanced structure that still allows for personal expression. Grid walls offer a harmonious blend of visual intrigue and soothing repetition, akin to a well-designed wallpaper pattern. This trend emerges as the design world leans towards a more maximalist and traditional aesthetic, with other popular trends like color-drenching, wallpaper, and skirted furniture. While these trends can lead to busy interiors, a grid wall introduces a sense of decorum and visual calm, preventing the space from becoming overwhelming. Danielle Domingues of Collins & Co. Interiors points out that grid walls refocus attention on the content within the frames, particularly promoting the display of family portraits in a sophisticated and timeless manner, countering the perceived decline of physical family photo displays in the digital age. This organized presentation elevates the artwork or photographs, lending an artful edge to the decor. The versatility of grid walls is another key advantage. They seamlessly integrate into various home styles, including modern, minimalist, and traditional interiors, where symmetry can significantly enhance the overall aesthetic. Furthermore, once established, grid walls are relatively easy to update, offering long-term flexibility for homeowners. However, careful planning is crucial before installation. Designers recommend laying out frames on the floor to visualize spacing and avoid overcrowding. Consistency in frame sizes is paramount to maintaining the symmetrical appeal. The final layout of a grid wall can be customized to suit a room's specific needs, whether grouping pieces closely over a sofa or spacing them out above an extra-wide headboard. Regardless of the arrangement, maintaining equidistant spacing between frames is essential for precision and balance. Repetition is also key, with recommendations for using a group of four or more pieces of the same size to establish visual rhythm and structure. To minimize visual clutter, simple frames are preferred, allowing the displayed art or photographs to be the focal point. Designers like Zoë Feldman suggest black and white photography or art displayed in diptychs or triptychs for a clean, symmetric look that lets the art speak without distraction. While consistency in color palette, subject matter, or artistic style is advised to unify the overall aesthetic, some variation can also add interest, ensuring the grid wall feels thoughtfully curated and tells a unique story. #GridWalls #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DecoratingTrends #Symmetry #GalleryWalls #MinimalistDesign #TraditionalHomes #PictureFrames

Statement walls offer a compelling way to introduce creativity, visual interest, and a unique personality into any interior space. Instead of uniform design across all walls, a focal point wall strategically breaks monotony and adds a 'wow' factor, making a room more engaging and dynamic. This approach is particularly effective in smaller spaces, where a well-executed statement wall can create an illusion of greater openness and dimension. Several local design experts highlight different methods for creating impactful statement walls. For instance, Brad Ramsey Interiors emphasizes using murals in bedrooms. Brad Ramsey notes that a bedroom's wall behind the bed naturally serves as a focal point, making it an ideal canvas for a mural, even a subtly designed one, to add significant visual impact without overwhelming the space. This technique transforms a functional wall into a piece of art, contributing to the room's aesthetic appeal. Another approach involves incorporating natural and textured materials to add warmth and character. Beth Haley Design showcases a sitting area where reclaimed wood is used on a wall, introducing a rustic element and rich texture. Beth Haley suggests that such material choices, or highlighting existing architectural features like brick, can energize a room and add another layer of pattern without making the space feel cluttered. These walls can also help define zones in larger rooms or enhance coziness in smaller ones, acting as conversation starters due to their unique material. Art installations provide another avenue for statement walls, turning a plain surface into a curated gallery. J. Haynes Interiors illustrates this with a family room featuring a gallery wall of collected artwork above an antique console table. JoAnne Haynes explains that grouping thematically similar pieces can create a more impressive visual narrative than a single large artwork. Such a display can hold sentimental value and tell a personal story, enriching the room's atmosphere. For children's rooms, patterned wallpaper offers a balance of playfulness and sophistication. Jessica Jennings Design features a young girl’s bedroom with 'Chou Chou' wallpaper by Sister Parish. Jessica Jennings highlights that focal walls, when thoughtfully chosen, can create interest and provide a personalized touch that makes a home unique to its occupants. This design choice ensures the room remains appealing as the child grows. Finally, functional elements can also serve as dramatic focal points. Van Mol Restoration demonstrates this with a mirrored media room where a large vintage mirror accentuates a stairwell landing. Derek Van Mol appreciates clients with a clear vision, and this example illustrates how a functional object can be transformed into a stunning centerpiece. This method cleverly uses utility to enhance aesthetics, creating a distinctive and memorable feature. These diverse examples underscore the versatility of statement walls in enhancing various interior designs, from modern lofts to cozy nooks and family-oriented spaces. #InteriorDesign #StatementWalls #HomeDecor #FocalPointWalls #MuralDesign #ReclaimedWood #GalleryWall #Wallpaper #MirroredWalls

The article discusses the decline of open-plan living as a dominant interior design trend, tracing its popularity from the late Nineties and early Noughties to its current waning appeal. Initially embraced by many as a symbol of aspiration, mimicking the aesthetics of converted factories and warehouses, open-plan homes were characterized by the demolition of internal walls to create large, flowing spaces. This trend, dubbed the "Faux Industrial Revolution," captivated homeowners, particularly Generation X, who sought to transform even traditional period properties into expansive, loft-like environments. However, the article highlights the numerous drawbacks that have emerged from this design philosophy over time. Interior designers and homeowners alike are expressing growing dissatisfaction with open-plan layouts. Issues such as draughtiness, dust accumulation, and the difficulty of maintaining tidiness are frequently cited. Alexandria Dauley, an interior designer, shares her personal frustration, noting the constant challenge of keeping her kitchen/living/diner concept tidy with teenage daughters and the incessant noise and clutter it generates. She expresses a desire for separate living spaces, a large utility room, and a butler's pantry in her next home, indicating a shift towards more compartmentalized living. Rayman Boozer, another interior designer, observes a similar sentiment even in New York City, where loft living has historically been popular. He attributes this shift to the influence of period dramas like *Downton Abbey* and *Bridgerton*, which inspire a longing for elegant, distinct dining experiences and a separation from the kitchen's chaos. Boozer laments his own open-plan home, where guests inevitably gravitate to the kitchen, making private meal preparation challenging. The article also points out the sensory inconveniences of open-plan spaces, such as unbearable noise levels from cooking, conversations, and entertainment. Bookworms, for instance, resort to noise-cancelling headphones to find peace in these environments. Joanna Plant, a decorator, emphasizes the overlooked importance of acoustics in large spaces and notes a rising client preference for smaller, cozier rooms, which are better suited to the English climate than the expansive designs influenced by architects like Frank Lloyd Wright in sunnier California. Daniel Hopwood, an architect who once facilitated the removal of internal walls, now finds himself restoring them, confirming the cyclical nature of design trends. He explains that while open spaces once signified affluence, they often lacked charm and functionality for daily living. The article suggests that the new status symbol in home design is not expansive open areas but rather single-task ancillary spaces, such as flower rooms, sculleries, laundry rooms, and butler's pantries, which echo the practical, yet elegant, layouts of English country houses. For those not ready to completely abandon the sense of openness, the concept of "broken plan" living is presented as a compromise. This approach uses elements like half walls, open shelving, and glazed partitions (such as Crittall-style screens or stained-glass doors) to create distinct zones within a larger space while retaining natural light and a feeling of spaciousness. Examples include deVOL designs and Plain English kitchens that use partitions to contain cooking smells and create separate functional areas like secondary kitchens or sculleries. Ultimately, the article concludes by advocating for the return of walls, not only for practical reasons like tidiness and noise control but also for fostering privacy and allowing children to have their own space away from constant parental oversight, thereby challenging the myth that open-plan living inherently creates a better social environment. #OpenPlanLiving #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeRenovation #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeDecoration #BrokenPlanLiving #DesignShift #HomeComfort #ArchitecturalTrends

Submaterial, a company founded by David Hamlin in 2006, specializes in creating handcrafted design pieces for modern interiors. Operating from a 35,000-square-foot studio in New Mexico with a team of 30, including 25 skilled craftspeople, Submaterial transforms raw materials such as wool felt, cork, metal, glass, and wood into precise geometric works of art. The brand's product range includes wall art, acoustic panels, mirrors, and architectural room dividers, all designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Hamlin's initial frustration with balancing artisanal creation and running a successful business ultimately shaped Submaterial's core philosophy. This philosophy emphasizes the beauty of handmade craftsmanship alongside the capacity for scalable production. Each piece showcases meticulous detail, clean lines, rich textures, and a striking interplay of color and form, highlighting the brand's commitment to quality and design integrity. One of the key strengths of Submaterial's approach is the inherent flexibility and modularity of its designs. This allows for effortless adaptation, from grand installations to more subtle compositions. As both designer and manufacturer, Submaterial offers extensive customization options for color and material, catering to diverse environments, including bold commercial spaces and intimate residential interiors. The company is committed to sustainability, utilizing natural and responsibly sourced materials like carbon-neutral cork from Portugal and durable merino wool felt. Many products also leverage the natural sound-absorbing properties and rich texture of FilzFelt’s high-quality German-milled 100% wool design felt, reflecting a collaborative approach to material sourcing. Lean manufacturing practices are employed to minimize waste, with offcuts being repurposed for educational institutions, artists, and even recycled into new materials. While the majority of Submaterial's pieces are made-to-order, the brand also offers ready-to-ship options and has recently introduced a pre-order event for its popular Circadian No. 2 wall art piece. This artwork, characterized by layers of vibrantly colored felt within a powder-coated aluminum frame, exemplifies the brand's blend of rhythm and color. The introduction of pre-order collections aims to make these desirable pieces more accessible to a wider audience. Beyond its environmental commitments, Submaterial also prioritizes social sustainability. The company ensures that all employees receive a living wage or higher, fully covered health insurance, and support for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Hamlin emphasizes that Submaterial's future-focused vision is mindful of its impact on the world, proving that a successful business can uphold values of craftsmanship, fair compensation, and community responsibility while producing handmade goods. #TexturalWallArt #HandcraftedDesign #ModernInteriors #SustainableMaterials #WoolFelt #CorkDesign #AcousticPanels #InteriorDecor #DavidHamlin

Decorative wall panels are experiencing a significant resurgence in interior design, offering a versatile and stylish solution for enhancing various spaces within the home. This trend encompasses both traditional wall panel kits and more modern acoustic wall panels, each providing unique aesthetic and functional benefits. Wall panels serve as an effective alternative to traditional plastering, allowing homeowners to achieve a refined and sophisticated look without the extensive labor or cost associated with professional plasterwork. The article highlights that wall panel kits are designed for ease of installation, making them a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts. These kits typically consist of pre-cut, lightweight MDF strips that can be readily affixed to smooth walls. The installation process usually involves applying a suitable wood adhesive, with the option of additional securing with a nail gun, particularly in high-traffic areas, to ensure long-term stability. This method allows sections of the existing wall to remain visible between the installed slats, creating depth and visual interest. To achieve a cohesive finish, the entire area, from the top moulding to the skirting board, is painted after installation, seamlessly integrating the panels into the room's design. Full wall panels, on the other hand, offer a comprehensive solution for walls that may require more extensive coverage or are in need of plastering. These panels provide a solid surface and demand proper securing with screws to ensure a robust and lasting installation. The distinction between wall panel kits and full panels lies primarily in their application and the degree of coverage they provide, with kits being more decorative and full panels offering a more foundational wall treatment. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, acoustic wall panels are noted for their retro and fashionable quality, contributing to improved sound insulation within a space. This functional benefit makes them suitable for various rooms, from living areas to bedrooms, where reducing ambient noise can enhance comfort and tranquility. The article also touches upon a wider range of moulding and cladding options available, including decorative mouldings, stripwood, interior timber wall cladding, dado and picture rails, and interior PVCu cladding. These options provide homeowners with diverse materials and styles to customize their wall treatments further. Bathroom wall panels are specifically mentioned as a practical and stylish solution for moisture-prone environments. These panels offer a waterproof and easy-to-clean surface, making them an ideal choice for bathrooms where durability and hygiene are paramount. The popularity of decorative wall panels is attributed to their ability to add character, depth, and a sense of luxury to any room, making them a highly desirable investment for home improvement projects. #WallPanels #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #DIYHomeImprovement #AcousticPanels #WallCladding #Mouldings #BathroomDesign #HomeRenovation

The concept of the 'fifth wall' in home decor, traditionally referring to the ceiling, is undergoing a shift as experts increasingly highlight the floor as a prime surface for adding personality and making a statement. While ceilings have long been a focal point for decorative finishes like paint, paneling, or wallpaper, there is a growing consensus that the floor is now taking center stage in setting a room's tone. Neel Bradham, CEO of Parador, emphasizes that the floor serves as a canvas for personality, pattern, and storytelling underfoot. This evolving perspective stems from homeowners' increasing confidence in expressing their individuality through design, moving beyond neutral backdrops to embrace more assertive style choices. Statement flooring, though not a novel idea, is gaining significant traction due to its ability to capture attention more frequently than the ceiling in daily life. Anthony Scott, global product and innovation director at Havwoods, notes that expressive flooring is about creating a defining feature through material, pattern, or finish. This trend does not diminish the importance of ceiling design but rather introduces an additional avenue for visual interest and impact within a space. Jenna Forsdyke, an interior designer at Pfeiffer Design, agrees that both the ceiling and floor are crucial for elevating a room and injecting unexpected individuality. However, the floor possesses unique grounding qualities, providing an anchor for the room and guiding the flow of the space, often being the first element noticed. Experts suggest several approaches to incorporate statement flooring effectively. A key consideration is long-term vision, treating the floor as the foundational element for the entire room's design. This involves selecting formats and finishes that will maintain their appeal over time. Patterned wood options like herringbone or chevron are recommended for their ability to add texture and personality while ensuring timelessness. Another technique is zoning, where different tones or patterns of flooring are used to define and separate distinct areas within a larger room, a reliable method for structuring space. Playing with pattern is also encouraged, whether through graphic rugs, striking wood designs, or oversized panels, to inject color, texture, and visual interest, provided the choice aligns with the homeowner's needs and the overall room aesthetic. Finally, maintaining a balanced design is crucial when implementing statement flooring. If a bold floor pattern is chosen, it is advisable to keep walls and furnishings simple and understated to allow the floor to be the focal point. To achieve cohesion, elements like colors from the flooring can be echoed in artwork, accessories, and furniture throughout the room. This ensures that the expressive floor integrates harmoniously with the rest of the decor, creating a unified and impactful space rather than an overwhelming one. The article concludes by inviting readers to consider embracing statement flooring as a powerful design tool in their own homes, reflecting a contemporary shift in interior design priorities. #StatementFlooring #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #FlooringIdeas #FifthWall #PatternedFlooring #HomePersonalization #DesignTrends

In smaller homes and studio apartments, rooms often need to serve multiple functions, like a bedroom becoming an office or a living room transforming into a play area. The process of dividing these chameleon-like spaces into intentional zones can be daunting. When physical walls are not an option, strategic use of furniture, lighting, and decor becomes crucial to differentiate between flow and chaos. This article, drawing insights from five interior designers, Wirecutter editors, and an interior-design consultant, offers practical techniques to effectively zone a single room into multiple distinct areas. One primary method discussed is the use of area rugs. Larger rugs can create clear boundaries within a space without the need for walls, making designated areas such as a living room or dining space appear larger. This technique is effective in both open-concept layouts and single-purpose rooms. Rug placement can also define pathways and absorb sound, contributing to a more intimate and spacious feel. A top recommendation for this purpose is the Revival Ombre Wool Rug - Dawn, noted for its minimalist design, plush texture, and rich dyes. Room dividers offer another versatile solution for visual separation. These have evolved beyond simple partitions to include options ranging from affordable IKEA screens to iconic designs. Room dividers provide temporary partitions without sacrificing flexibility, allowing for easy rearrangement. Editor Katie Okamoto highlights a unique roll-up Bamboo Room Divider, which can be unfurled into various curved configurations to section off spaces like a home office or a makeshift foyer. For more permanent yet space-efficient division, curtains mounted on ceiling tracks are suggested. This method, while requiring some installation, offers customizable transparency and is particularly useful for maintaining privacy in bedrooms or obscuring awkward sight lines in small apartments. The IKEA Vidga ceiling track system and Quince Cotton Sheer Curtain Set are recommended for this purpose. Furniture arrangement can also act as architectural elements to define zones. Floating a sofa, for instance, can create a distinct seating area separate from dining or work zones. The design of the sofa's back is important as it will be visible from all sides. Recommended sofas include the customizable BenchMade Modern Eva Sofa and the elegant Article Sven 72" Tufted Velvet Loveseat. Freestanding bookcases, such as the IKEA Kallax shelving unit, are praised for their dual functionality as room dividers and storage solutions, addressing a common need in smaller spaces. Lighting plays a significant role in carving out distinct areas. Similar to rugs, pendant lights can anchor specific zones. For those without access to an electrician, plug-in pendant lighting can be mounted with an eye hook. Table and standing lamps further contribute to shaping areas. Smart bulbs are highlighted for their ability to adjust color temperature, allowing users to transition from cooler, productive light for work to warmer, mood lighting for relaxation, shifting the room's energy. Caroline Mullen's apartment layout demonstrates how furniture, rugs, and lighting can create separate domains. Finally, color, pattern, and texture are powerful tools for zoning without physical barriers. Painting a wall or ceiling in a different hue, a technique known as "color drenching," can define a specific area. Wallpaper also offers a similar effect, allowing for special moments in tight spaces like hallways or mudrooms. Designers General and Cristina Casañas-Judd used graphic wallpaper to transform an underutilized nook into a bar area. Wall texture, such as wooden panels, can also delineate spaces and absorb sound, adding visual and acoustic separation. The article suggests that grouping existing decor by color or pattern can subtly define areas, providing personality and order to a small space. By implementing these strategies, a small, multifunctional room can feel intentional, relaxing, and conducive to a better work-life balance and harmonious shared living. #InteriorDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #HomeDecor #RoomDividers #SpacePlanning #FurnitureArrangement #LightingDesign #ColorDrenching #AreaRugs

The demand for wallpaper continues to rise, with patterns becoming increasingly artistic and vibrant. Naples-based designer Jeffrey Fisher, known for his expertise in artful wall coverings, highlights his top selections for luxurious styles that command attention. He emphasizes various designs, each offering distinct aesthetic qualities and potential applications within home interiors. One featured selection is "El Dorado" by Élitis, crafted from raffia fibers woven into embossed vinyl. This design provides a textured feel and a sun-bleached appearance, drawing inspiration from seaside aesthetics. Available in over 40 shades, Fisher notes its ability to deliver a high-impact visual statement, suitable for creating a striking backdrop in various rooms. Another sophisticated choice is "Abanico" by Arte. This wallpaper offers a delicate interpretation of a tropical motif, characterized by wispy brushstrokes that evoke the appearance of pandan leaves. Fisher describes this design as particularly refined, suggesting its use for spaces where a subtle yet elegant tropical touch is desired. For those seeking abstract art, Fisher points to "Graffito Salmon/Cream" by Groundworks, a collaboration between star interior designer Kelly Wearstler and Lee Jofa. This design merges fine art with street art elements, featuring a bright peach, hand-painted print. Fisher intends to incorporate this bold and contemporary pattern into a future installation, highlighting its modern appeal. Fisher also expresses admiration for Andrew Martin’s wall coverings, praising their quality and realistic depictions. Among these, he highlights "Penny Post by Andrew Martin" in red. This design showcases a collection of vintage one-penny stamps, imbuing a sense of old-world charm. He recommends it for studies or bedrooms where a touch of nostalgic character is sought. Lastly, for mid-century modern aesthetics, Fisher turns to Asteré, a brand that collaborates with artists to create original designs. "L’ivresse" by Paris-based artist Garance Vallée is featured, characterized by bold, geometric shapes reminiscent of the 1950s and 1960s. Fisher advises using this style in larger spaces, such as hallways, stairwells, or rooms with tall ceilings, common in Southwest Florida homes, to fully appreciate its expansive and impactful design. #WallpaperTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryWallcoverings #JeffreyFisher #ArtisticPatterns #DesignInspiration #MidCenturyModern #TropicalMotifs

Knotty pine paneling, characterized by its rustic markings and imperfections, is experiencing a resurgence in interior design, moving beyond its previous association with outdated 1970s aesthetics. This type of wood, humbler than oak and more rustic than regular pine, evokes a nostalgic, summer camp-like feeling. The trend aligns with other organic and cozy styles like cottagecore and Scandi-modern, with Pinterest also identifying Americana-inspired design as a key trend for 2024. The article encourages embracing knotty pine for various applications, such as ceilings or living room walls, advocating against painting it to preserve its natural charm. Knotty pine's distinctive knots are natural imperfections formed as a tree grows, engulfing dead branches that then harden within the trunk. These unique markings ensure that no two pieces of knotty pine are identical. While some pine varieties, like ponderosa pine, typically remain knot-free, others, such as white pine, are known for their prominent knots. The current comeback of knotty pine sees designers favoring lighter stains or clear coats to highlight its natural hue, fitting well with the popular minimalist Scandi aesthetic. Max Humphrey, a designer and enthusiast, clear-coats raw pine to maintain its original color. The renewed popularity of knotty pine is also attributed to its ability to add a sense of age and character to a space without overwhelming it, fitting into a breezy yet timeless style. Historically, pine was a cost-effective and widely available building material in 18th-century America, making it a favorite during the Colonial era. Early American pine walls bear a striking resemblance to modern simple paneling, underscoring the enduring appeal of this material. Regarding cost, knotty pine is generally more affordable than non-knotty pine and most standard hardwoods. For example, an eight-foot board can be purchased for around $17, and pre-cut tongue-and-groove paneling costs approximately $1.64 per square foot. Despite being a soft wood, knotty pine is durable. Minor dents and scratches that accumulate over time tend to enhance its aged appearance, which is often difficult to achieve with materials like plaster or drywall. Its resistance to heat and humidity also makes it a practical choice for moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms. The article highlights four versatile ways to incorporate knotty pine into home decor: in the bedroom, hallway, kitchen, and attic. In bedrooms, it can create a cozy, recessed nook. For hallways, bare-bones doors and patterned runners can complement knotty pine. In kitchens, a horizontally wrapped vent hood and paneled walls contribute to a rustic cabin feel. Finally, in attics, a knotty accent wall can serve as a backdrop for a playful gallery display. These applications demonstrate the material's adaptability and its potential to add warmth and character to various living spaces. #KnottyPine #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #WoodPanelling #RusticCharm #DesignTrends #AffordableMaterials #HomeRenovation

The increasing emphasis on flexibility in contemporary interior design is a response to evolving architectural needs and the reduction of interior spaces. This shift transforms interiors from static entities into dynamic, versatile environments. Ricardo Bofill's assertion that "architecture is the art of structuring space" underscores the importance of fostering adaptable spaces. While strategies like multipurpose design and flexible furniture contribute to this versatility, the crucial aspect of acoustics is often overlooked, particularly in environments such as offices, conference rooms, schools, and auditoriums. Therefore, enhancing acoustic performance is essential for creating functional multipurpose interiors. Skyfold's operable walls offer a solution by combining soundproofing capabilities with aesthetic design. Beyond their acoustic benefits, these movable, folding, and retractable walls provide customized solutions for space reconfiguration. Their ease of use allows for rapid division or expansion of interiors. Furthermore, these systems offer a variety of surface options, including whiteboard, glass, and other finishes, which can be combined to optimize both aesthetics and functionality. This adaptability enables the systems to transition seamlessly between solid and transparent configurations, ensuring maximum flexibility to meet diverse project requirements. Solid folding operable walls are effective for dividing spaces, enhancing privacy, and improving acoustics. The Skyfold Classic solution, for instance, offers extensive customization options and can reach heights of up to 36 feet (11 meters), making it suitable for a wide range of projects. This series features a quiet, fully automatic folding system that retracts into the ceiling, freeing up floor space and eliminating the need for floor and wall tracks. This design is particularly advantageous for spaces with stepped or sloped floors, where partitions can be configured to meet at 90-degree angles. The Zenith series combines the features of the Classic system by integrating vertical folding elements with a straight-down descent mechanism. This design is ideal for areas where wall obstructions or furniture might impede a purely vertically folding wall. Most Zenith models can reach a maximum height of 12 feet (3.6 meters), with the Zenith 48 model extending up to 48 feet (14.6 meters), all while maintaining efficient soundproofing. The Zenith Premium configuration further includes closure panels that conceal the wall's pocket, ensuring a flush and discreet ceiling appearance, thus integrating the vertical folding system as a seamless accessory. For visual and spatial connection, vertically folding and retractable wall systems incorporating glass panels act as significant design elements. The Prisma system exemplifies this by offering flexibility through a lightweight structure and clean lines. Its straight-line telescopic descent allows it to retract seamlessly into the ceiling, optimizing floor space without visible floor and wall rails or hinges. This makes it suitable for corporate and educational settings requiring a sober design while enhancing comfort. The system accommodates wide openings and covers heights up to 12 feet (3.6 meters). Similarly, Mirage's vertically folding operable wall system features clean lines, a lightweight structure, a variety of glass and Plexiglas panels, and highly efficient acoustical seals. This system also retracts into the ceiling, maximizing floor space. It includes an automatic turnkey operation mechanism and security features. These movable wall solutions represent advanced design elements that merge functionality and flexibility in interiors, offering a straightforward method for transforming spaces. Architects, designers, and other professionals continue to explore the advantages of operable walls, with new web tools available to provide information on innovations from leading manufacturers in both vertical and horizontal operable wall systems, helping professionals find relevant products and brands. #MovableWalls #RetractablePartitions #FoldingWalls #InteriorDesignFlexibility #AcousticSolutions #SpaceTransformation #ArchitecturalInnovation #MultipurposeInteriors #GlassPartitions

Design experts emphasize the ceiling as a crucial, often overlooked, element in interior design, referring to it as the "fifth wall." Instead of leaving ceilings plain white, designers advocate for transforming them into "statement ceilings" using various techniques such as wallpaper, shimmery paint glazes, or contrasting paint colors. This approach can dramatically enhance a room's aesthetic and bring it to life. The recent Junior League of Detroit Designers' Show House showcased several examples of bold ceiling treatments. Annie Kordas of Kordas Interiors, for instance, used a moody wallpaper featuring whimsical woodland creatures, named 'Forêt Noire,' on the nursery ceiling. This wallpaper served as the central design element, acting as a night sky to provide visual stimulation for the baby. Angie Lane, an architect and interior designer with A. Lane Architecture, opted for a hand-painted plaid pattern on the ceiling of her Michigan-themed lodge. This large-scale plaid paid homage to the lodge ambiance and complemented an Alexander McQueen rug on the floor. Kordas suggests several ways to enhance ceilings beyond wallpaper, including painting them a distinct color and adding a dramatic center light fixture. For spaces with exposed wood beams, she recommends staining them dark to add dimension and coziness, especially in rooms with higher ceilings. Furthermore, incorporating double crown molding or applied moldings can contribute to a more sophisticated and "finessed" look. In long hallways, a series of striking light fixtures can create a compelling visual flow. Barb Johnson, owner of Walls of Virtue, a faux painting firm, confirms the increasing popularity of statement ceilings. She notes that applying special finishes to ceilings is labor-intensive, often leading to higher costs. One popular technique involves adding shimmer, which can be mixed into paint. When illuminated by a light fixture, the shimmer reflects light, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Another method is to apply a glaze with "sparkle dust" over a base coat, offering a relatively simple way to achieve a decorative effect. Johnson's work in the Banham family home in West Bloomfield exemplifies the transformative power of statement ceilings. In the foyer, she meticulously applied multiple layers of gold paint over a white pearlescent base to a 25-foot ceiling, requiring specialized scaffolding. This opulent ceiling is visible from three levels, including a basement wine cellar with a glass enclosure. The first-floor powder room also features Johnson's artistry, with gold foils applied to the upper and lower wall portions, complemented by a pearl white middle section with an epoxy finish for durability. The homeowner, Reem Banham, notes that these unique ceiling designs often become a focal point, with visitors frequently photographing them. Johnson emphasizes that successful ceiling design is an art form built on layering, where each element contributes to the overall rich and complex effect. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CeilingDesign #Wallpaper #PaintFinishes #FauxPainting #ArchitecturalDetails #DesignTrends