I'm an interior designer. Here's how I make my 350-square-foot studio apartment feel bigger and luxurious.

The article explores interior designer Justin Charette's approach to decorating his small Gramercy Park apartment in New York City, challenging conventional design 'rules' for compact spaces. Charette advocates for the use of bold colors and large-scale furniture, directly contrasting the popular belief that small rooms require neutral palettes and smaller pieces to appear larger. His design philosophy emphasizes creating a joyful and grand space, even within limited square footage. Charette's apartment design is presented as a departure from the prevalent neutral-only aesthetics often seen on social media. He aimed to inject volume and color into his home to counteract the urban landscape outside. A key element of his strategy involves incorporating large-scale furniture, which he argues makes a space feel and appear more expansive, adding a sense of grandeur. This perspective challenges the common inclination to use small furniture in small rooms, suggesting that thoughtfully chosen larger pieces can actually enhance the perception of space. The article highlights how Charette integrates vibrant colors into his apartment. A colorful throw found during a trip to Mexico City served as the initial inspiration for the color scheme. While the main furniture pieces are kept neutral or black, allowing for flexibility and future changes, pops of color are introduced through accents, art, and easily changeable elements. For example, the media credenza features red sliding doors that can be re-sprayed, demonstrating a commitment-free approach to incorporating color. The designer also mentions an unexpected element, a pink kitchen ceiling, as an inexpensive way to add impact without a significant long-term commitment. Another significant aspect of Charette's design is the strategic use of black. Despite being a dark color, black is employed throughout the apartment in furniture, tiles, and door hardware to create a sense of continuity and prevent the space from feeling disjointed or 'choppy.' This bold use of black, surprisingly, contributes to the apartment's overall lightness. The living room features an ombre wall, transitioning from black to white, which serves multiple purposes. It acts as a statement piece without competing with existing artwork, avoids over-reflection of light from windows, and visually enhances the room's height, subtly blending into the white ceiling. The designer also considers the weight and depth of furniture in smaller spaces. He prefers pieces that are on feet, such as the open bedroom frame in his own bedroom, to create a sense of airiness and prevent the space from feeling heavy. This design choice further contributes to the perception of openness and lightness. Charette's overall goal for his apartment was to embrace color and scale in meaningful ways, resulting in a living environment that is light, fresh, and joyful, successfully demonstrating that small spaces can be bold and grand. #SmallSpaceDesign #InteriorDesign #ColorPsychology #FurnitureScale #ApartmentDecor #ModernHome #DesignTips #NewYorkLiving #JustinCharette

The desire to integrate art into living spaces has become widespread, moving beyond an exclusive realm to encompass a broader audience interested in contemporary pieces. Art serves as a valuable medium for cultural and historical narratives, offering aesthetic pleasure. The challenge lies in harmonizing art with other interior elements to achieve balance. Interior designer Natalie Tredgett emphasizes a purposeful approach to design, ensuring each art piece is thoughtfully placed to enhance, rather than compete with, the room's energy. When incorporating art, the objective is not to directly match the room's decor to the art or vice versa. Instead, the focus is on creating a balanced environment where all elements coexist harmoniously. This involves considering a complementary color palette that works with the art, building upon a wider spectrum of colors. Beginning with hues that resonate with the artwork, contrasting colors can then be introduced. Instead of exact matches, the strategy involves selecting color families, drawing inspiration from paint charts that display various shades of a color, or observing natural palettes. Fabric choices can also incorporate a multitude of colors that align with the art. The complexity of the artwork also influences design decisions. For intricate pieces, pairing them with calm textures and patterns helps maintain balance, preventing either the art or the room from overpowering the other. Each element is given its designated place and purpose within the overall design. Beyond selecting existing pieces, there is an opportunity to commission unique artworks and objects. Social media platforms and art fairs have broadened access to artists, making it easier to collaborate on custom pieces. The aim is to create items that deeply resonate with the homeowner, bringing personality, happiness, and enjoyment to their spaces. An example includes commissioning lamps made from upcycled plastics, where the artist and designer collaborated on size, color palette, and form to create a distinctive, cherished piece. Layering is a fundamental aspect of this design philosophy. A home is not a static museum; it evolves with its inhabitants' lifestyles, and art and objects must adapt to these changes. Layering acknowledges that other elements, such as furniture, family photos, books, and lighting, will interact with the art. The key is to identify the central focal point in a room and use it as an anchor, positioning it where the eye is naturally drawn. The surrounding elements, including art, lamps, objects, and textiles, should then build upon this anchor with color harmony, contrasting patterns, and varied materials. This approach ensures that while each piece has its individual presence, they collectively form a cohesive composition. Successful design involves a dynamic interplay where the eye dances across a diverse array of unexpected yet unified pieces. When a room is designed effectively, no single element monopolizes attention. Instead, the art and the room together function as an installation that marries form and function, rich with memories and emotions unique to the owner. The beauty of the design lies in the synergy of its components. Achieving this balance, allowing each piece to have its breathing room and significance without overshadowing others, encourages homeowners to tell their personal stories through their curated spaces. The ultimate goal is to integrate art thoughtfully, giving each piece the presence it deserves within a cohesive and evolving home environment. #InteriorDesign #ArtIntegration #HomeDecor #ColorPalettes #ArtPlacement #Layering #CommissionedArt #NatalieTredgett

Chelsea Harris, a copywriter for Schoolhouse, successfully transformed her plain white rental bedroom in Portland, Oregon, into a cottage-worthy space for under $500. This renovation was part of a larger effort to update her circa-1940s apartment, which she moved into to reduce rent expenses and enjoy historic charm. She had previously renovated her galley kitchen with checkerboard floors, painting lower cabinets yellow, adding a peg rail, and applying butcher block-inspired contact paper. Following this, she tackled her bathroom, where she installed a beadboard wall and decorated it with pink accents. The bedroom was her final frontier for adding color and personal touch, aiming to keep costs under $500. Harris adopted an "ask-forgiveness-not-permission" approach to decorating her rental, prioritizing a comfortable living space over concerns about her security deposit. Her bedroom makeover began with choosing a paint color, a process she found challenging. She ultimately selected Behr's Nature’s Gift, a sage green hue, and applied two to three coats directly to the walls without priming. The initial painting process in gloomy Portland weather required later touch-ups in natural sunlight to ensure full coverage. The next step involved adding a subtle wallpaper. Harris lived with the newly painted room for several months before deciding on a wallpaper that would significantly change the space. She opted for the Ric Rac wallpaper from Spoonflower, noting its small-scale squiggles that appear as a solid color from a distance, which suited her preference given her existing plaid rug. Calculating the necessary amount of peel-and-stick wallpaper was straightforward using the website's tools. Installation took approximately two and a half hours, complicated slightly by slanted walls, which required careful painting of the ceiling trim to create a visually straight line for the wallpaper. To address the wallpaper appearing a bit short and to add a traditional touch, Harris installed a wide piece of trim from Home Depot along the bottom edge of the wallpaper. This process involved two hours of painting the trim due to its crevices and then mounting it with a nail gun. For storage, she utilized free shelves from a friend who was moving. These shelves were integrated above a reading corner, providing additional storage without adding bulky furniture. To create a cohesive, built-in look, she painted the shelves and their Amazon-sourced brackets the same sage green color as the walls. Finally, Harris incorporated gauzy curtains from IKEA and brass curtain rods from Target. She already owned the curtain rods, which complemented her desired warm brass accents. The sheer nature of the curtains was intentional, allowing for privacy while still letting in natural light, a crucial consideration for a room without abundant light. She also repainted a thrifted wardrobe, which had a poor sponge-paint finish, to match the room's aesthetic. This wardrobe, along with a living room closet, serves as primary clothing storage, as her partner uses the main bedroom closet as a workspace. Harris primarily executed the DIY aspects of the renovation, with her partner moving in after much of the work was completed, benefiting from the updated space. #RentalRenovation #BedroomMakeover #DIYDecor #BudgetDesign #SageGreen #PeelAndStickWallpaper #PortlandHome #CottageStyle #HomeRenovation

Mimi Shin, a UCLA-trained architect and interior designer, brings a unique perspective to her work, deeply influenced by her decade-long career as a fashion editor at prestigious magazines like Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue. Shin’s design philosophy emphasizes a foundational approach to space, prioritizing timeless, handcrafted materials, and graceful proportions, similar to how a fashion editor would focus on the silhouette of an outfit. She integrates carefully curated accessories to elevate the overall design, treating them as analogous to the finishing touches in fashion. This methodology is evident in her personal Venice bungalow remodel, which serves as a prime example of her ability to blend new construction with existing character. Shin's journey into interior design was sparked by a realization that her passion lay in the broader aspects of design rather than solely clothing. After a transformative dream, she pursued architecture at UCLA, attracted by its innovative 3D modeling program. Her architectural education provided her with a comprehensive understanding of construction, zoning laws, building codes, and materials, which she considers crucial for establishing credibility in a male-dominated field. She notes the importance for women in the industry to be highly qualified and knowledgeable, enabling them to confidently engage with other architects. In her professional practice, Shin has cultivated a loyal client base among Los Angeles's creative and executive communities, including Hollywood writers, producers, and Snapchat executives. Her clients value her design expertise and her distinctive fashion background. Her own home, a Spanish colonial beach shack in Venice, showcases her design principles. Facing the need for more space, Shin opted for a thoughtful expansion rather than a complete demolition, adding a second story to the main house and constructing a discrete two-story back house. This expansion respects the original character of the bungalow while addressing modern needs, including additional bathrooms and a media room. The outdoor space of her Venice home further exemplifies her innovative approach, featuring a rectangular pool, an outdoor dining area, and a wooden sauna nestled within an ORCA-designed urban garden. The design cleverly integrates these elements without making the lot feel crowded, maintaining a sense of openness and surprise for visitors. Shin consciously preserved the original footprint and scale of her bungalow, contrasting with the “raze and rebuild” philosophy sometimes taught in architecture school. She implemented design choices such as limewashed plaster walls to create a lived-in, authentic feel, preferring this over the sterile appearance of new drywall. Shin's fashion background is particularly evident in her approach to accessories and finishes. She integrates vintage furniture pieces, like a Charlotte Perriand chaise lounge, which add character and a sense of history, much like a stylist would use a worn item to add authenticity to an outfit. Her bathrooms feature an artful mix of tiles by Nathalie du Pasquier for Mutina, custom stained-glass windows, and fixtures chosen for their aesthetic appeal, often resembling jewelry. She actively seeks wall sconces that evoke earrings, highlighting her continuous thought process regarding lighting as a form of adornment. Her work demonstrates a cohesive integration of fashion-forward detailing with solid architectural principles, resulting in effortlessly beautiful and deeply personalized spaces. #MimiShin #InteriorDesign #FashionEditor #HomeTours #VeniceBungalow #ArchitecturalDesign #Remodeling #DesignPhilosophy #CreativeSpaces

Optimizing the layout of a small living room can be a challenging task, but applying specific design strategies can enhance both its functionality and perceived size. Instead of allowing limited square footage to restrict decorating choices, the correct furniture arrangement and selection can significantly increase the room's utility. To navigate the trends and principles for small living rooms, designers offer valuable insights on what approaches to embrace and what to avoid. One key recommendation from designers is to adopt an open-plan layout. This involves visually expanding the living room by integrating it with an adjoining space, thereby creating a more airy and spacious feel. Rather than using circular seating arrangements that define and potentially confine zones, it is advised to position seating against the walls. This strategy maximizes circulation space in the center of the room, allowing for easier movement and a greater sense of openness. Large sectionals, complemented by flexible pieces like poufs, stools, and floor cushions, contribute to a streamlined aesthetic and a light, uncluttered ambiance. Guillaume Coutheillas, founder of frenchCALIFORNIA, emphasizes that the goal in a small living room is to make the space feel larger by connecting it to the rest of the home. This can be achieved by removing physical separators to create a direct connection between areas or by strategically placing transitional furniture, such as chaises, benches, or swivel chairs. These transitional pieces subtly define zones without physically reducing the room's footprint, maintaining an expansive feel. Conversely, designers suggest moving away from the traditional use of standard, large coffee tables in small living rooms. This conventional element can often consume valuable space and limit flexibility. Instead, the trend is shifting towards multifunctional pieces that serve more than one purpose. For example, storage ottomans can function as both a coffee table and provide additional storage, offering greater utility than a simple tabletop for drinks and books. Devon Wegman, founder and design director of Devon Grace Interiors, highlights the benefits of incorporating large ottomans as coffee tables in compact city homes. She notes that these pieces not only expand the usable space but can also be modular, fitting together to create a central focal point while retaining the flexibility to be moved as needed. This adaptability ensures that the furniture serves the dynamic needs of a small living area, preventing it from feeling cramped or overwhelmed by oversized items. In summary, transforming a small living room into a functional and seemingly larger space involves strategic layout decisions. Embracing open-plan designs, positioning seating along walls to maximize central circulation, and opting for multifunctional furniture like storage ottomans instead of traditional large coffee tables are key designer-approved approaches. These strategies contribute to an environment that feels more expansive, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing. #SmallLivingRoomLayout #OpenPlanDesign #MultifunctionalFurniture #InteriorDesignTrends #SpaceOptimization #LivingRoomIdeas #HomeDecor #DesignTips

The article explores how to add personality and warmth to an all-white room, drawing on insights from interior designer and viral TikToker Hans Lorei. White rooms, while offering a clean and timeless aesthetic, often lack character without careful consideration of texture, color, and unique pieces. Lorei's approach transforms these blank canvases into expressive and inviting spaces through five key design tips. The first tip emphasizes thinking like an art gallery. In an art gallery, every object is intentionally selected and displayed for maximum impact. Applying this concept to a white room means choosing furniture and decor that stand out through their color, material, or shape, rather than blending into the background. A white sofa, for instance, might be replaced or complemented by pieces that introduce contrast and visual interest, elevating the room's mood. Examples of such pieces include a rich red lacquer coffee table that incorporates the lacquer trend, an accent chair that combines unique shape, texture, and soft color, and a fluid, sculptural side table that evokes an art exhibit, tapping into the chrome decor trend. The second tip focuses on upgrading light fixtures. Replacing basic lighting with fixtures that resemble art or sculpture can dramatically alter a white room's ambiance, especially where architectural details are minimal. Lorei suggests selecting lights that serve as focal points, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal. This can involve anything from colored glass flush mounts with warm tones to sculptural silk chandeliers or vintage-inspired Art Deco ceiling lights, all designed to introduce life and intentional design into the space. The third recommendation is to incorporate large-scale art. While gallery walls are popular, a single dramatic, oversized piece of art, such as a large painting, quilt, or vintage tapestry, can make a significant statement. Lorei encourages looking beyond traditional art and exploring affordable options from online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy. Large art pieces draw the eye and transform an empty wall into an expressive feature, adding dynamism and personality to the room. The fourth tip suggests using lamps as sculptural elements. In minimalist or all-white environments, everyday items like lamps should function as art installations. The material and shape of a lamp become crucial, as they contribute significantly to the room's character. This could involve selecting lamps with unique details, incorporating portable lamps, thrifting vintage lighting, or simply replacing a plain lampshade with a bolder alternative. The goal is for lighting to provide color, texture, and personality, acting as sculptural accents that enrich the space. Lorei's final tip addresses window treatments, often an overlooked aspect of interior design. He advocates for replacing plastic blinds or simple white curtains with options that introduce warmth and texture, such as bamboo or subtly colored linen. These treatments create much-needed contrast and warmth, enhancing the room's overall appeal. For renters, non-permanent solutions like layering curtains over existing blinds or using tension rods can achieve a similar effect without structural changes. The article concludes by emphasizing that these accessible changes can profoundly impact a room's aesthetic, proving that significant transformations do not always require major renovations or bold wall colors, but rather thoughtful selection and layering of design elements. #InteriorDesign #WhiteRoomDecor #HomeDecor #DesignTips #ArtfulLiving #LightingIdeas #LargeScaleArt #SculpturalElements #WindowTreatments #TexturalDecor

Mikhaila Friel moved into a furnished one-bedroom apartment in Glasgow, Scotland, in July with her boyfriend. The apartment, located in the Merchant City neighborhood, came fully furnished, but the couple added some personal touches, including a bookshelf, TV, plants, an ottoman, a beanbag, two bar stools, and kitchen appliances. Despite these additions, Friel felt the open-plan living and kitchen area could be improved to appear more spacious and brighter, especially given Glasgow's often dark and gloomy weather and limited natural sunlight. To achieve this, Friel sought the expertise of Jordan Samson, a TikTok-famous interior designer. Samson provided several tips to enhance the apartment's aesthetic and functionality. One of his primary suggestions was to introduce a rug into the living area to visually "anchor" and define the space within the open-concept room. He recommended a light, neutral-colored rug to maintain the existing airy feel of the furniture. Regarding the bookshelf, Samson critiqued Friel's current exposed unit for creating "visual clutter," which he believed made the living space feel smaller. He advised considering a floor-to-ceiling bookcase with a mix of open and closed shelving, such as Ikea's Billy/Oxberg bookcase, to draw the eye upward, reduce clutter, and still allow for decorative displays. Recognizing that Friel had recently purchased her current bookshelf, Samson offered alternative solutions to make it more visually appealing without replacement. He suggested alternating horizontal and vertical book stacks and layering items by placing the largest ones first, followed by smaller ones, to achieve a balanced look. Samson also addressed the placement of plants on the windowsill. While generally appreciating plants in this location, he advised against it for Friel's apartment because it had only two windows at one end of the room. He recommended relocating the larger plant or substituting it with a smaller one to maximize natural light entry. Additionally, he suggested replacing the existing curtains with longer ones that extend to the floor, which would elongate the walls and create the illusion of higher ceilings. For the kitchen area, which lacked wall decor, Samson proposed two options to differentiate it from the living space. He recommended using stick-and-peel wallpaper to create a feature wall or installing a large mirror with a thin frame. A mirror, he explained, would not only define the space but also make the surrounding area appear larger. These recommendations aim to transform the apartment into a more expansive, brighter, and visually organized home. #InteriorDesign #ApartmentLiving #SmallSpaceSolutions #HomeDecor #OpenPlanLiving #JordanSamson #GlasgowApartment #DecoratingTips

This article details the transformation of Angie Teater's 350-square-foot studio apartment in Midtown East, Manhattan. Originally a plain beige space, it has been dramatically redesigned to reflect a bold and sophisticated aesthetic, accommodating distinct living, dining, and sleeping areas within its compact footprint. Angie, an interior designer, describes her style as "easy elegance," aiming for a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere, reminiscent of a luxury hotel suite. The article highlights the significant evolution of her home decor. Angie recounts that when she first moved into the apartment eight years prior, her possessions were largely functional items acquired without much thought or personal attachment. Her journey to transform the studio began with a conscious decision to create her dream apartment. This involved collecting numerous inspirational images that aligned with her desired aesthetic and gradually replacing her existing, unloved items with pieces that she genuinely cherished and that suited the small space. A pivotal moment in the apartment's evolution was the decision to paint a wall ebony. This bold choice, while not universally appealing, proved to be a defining feature that significantly contributed to the dramatic and luxurious feel of the space. The influence of luxury hotels, such as the Belmond collection and Oberoi Hotel & Resorts, is acknowledged as a key inspiration for Angie's design, as these establishments have mastered the art of high-style relaxation. For readers looking to achieve similar results in small spaces, Angie emphasizes the critical importance of meticulous measurement and proportion. She advises making a list of necessary items, then carefully measuring the available space to determine optimal placement and appropriate sizing for each piece. This methodical approach ensures that every element serves a purpose and fits harmoniously within the limited area, maximizing efficiency and aesthetic appeal. #StudioApartment #SmallSpaceDesign #HomeTransformation #BeforeAndAfter #InteriorDesign #ModernStyle #NYCStudio #SpaceEfficiency

The article details the transformation of a guest bedroom into a versatile studio kitchen, driven by the need for a well-lit space for recipe and product photography. The initial idea arose from the limitations of the existing kitchen, which lacked natural light and was used daily by the family, making it unsuitable for creative work. The guest bedroom, however, offered abundant natural light, making it an ideal candidate for conversion. The design project had several key objectives. First, the space needed to function as a kitchen prep area for shooting recipes, requiring countertops and prep surfaces, even without full kitchen appliances. Second, the layout was designed to maximize the natural light available throughout the day. Third, a neutral backdrop and open display shelving were essential for photographing products for the Casa Zuma brand. Fourth, a central worktable was needed to facilitate various activities, including crafting, cooking, and collaborative meetings. Finally, the entire project had to be executed on a tight budget, which necessitated creative and cost-effective solutions. The transformation began by emptying the guest bedroom, which was not frequently used despite its charm. The existing neutral woven headboard was repurposed for a child's bedroom, demonstrating a practical approach to reuse. The author emphasizes the philosophy of utilizing every part of the home to its fullest potential, justifying the conversion despite losing a guest room. A custom-made island was a central feature of the new studio. After an unsuccessful search for a suitable off-the-shelf option, a reclaimed wood island was commissioned from an Etsy shop, Whatman Barn Furniture. This island, surrounded by woven leather counter stools, provided a rustic and timeless aesthetic while offering ample workspace for various creative tasks. For the lower cabinetry and countertop, IKEA products were chosen to meet budget constraints and achieve a European farmhouse style. Sektion base cabinets with a light ash effect were selected, topped with a laminate countertop in a bleached wood tone. A crucial detail highlighted was the addition of legs to the base cabinets to achieve standard counter height. Open shelving was a more complex element. The goal was a single marble shelf for displaying dishes and Casa Zuma products, but marble's cost and weight posed challenges. The solution involved finding clearance marble shelves from Ballard Designs and using visible steel brackets for a slightly industrial look. The installation of these brackets presented minor difficulties due to wall studs, leading to a pragmatic approach of "progress not perfection." A significant cost-saving find was a $39 woven pendant light fixture from an Etsy shop, Beldi Boheme. This pendant replaced a pre-existing ceiling fan, adding a California-meets-Mallorca aesthetic and serving as a stylish focal point. The article concludes by showcasing the functionality and aesthetic success of the new studio kitchen, emphasizing its role in supporting the team's creative and collaborative efforts while adhering to a modest budget of just over $2,800 (excluding a prior wall plastering project). #HomeRenovation #StudioKitchen #InteriorDesign #DIYProject #BudgetDecor #CreativeSpace #HomeOffice #SmallSpaceTransformation #DesignTips

The article explores how to transform a personal bedroom into a luxurious retreat akin to a five-star hotel room, drawing insights from expert interior designers. It emphasizes that while many hours are spent asleep in a bedroom, creating a space that exudes comfort, relaxation, and luxury is crucial. The central theme revolves around emulating the instant feeling of relaxation experienced when checking into a high-end hotel. The first key tip focuses on establishing a "plump and plush bedscape." Designers recommend investing in high-quality bedding, a comfortable mattress, and full, fluffy pillows, often suggesting 100% duck or goose down for ultimate softness. Crisp white sheets with at least a 300 thread count, preferably sateen or percale, are recommended. The bed layering technique involves using large Euro square pillows for height, matching shams to the duvet or quilt, and adding a textured throw. The article also advises treating the bedroom like a hotel with daily bed-making to maintain a sense of luxury. The second tip highlights the importance of a "palette of hushed, soft, and soothing tones." Neutral colors such as white, beige, and soft grays are suggested to create a calm and serene atmosphere, mirroring luxury hotel aesthetics. These tones not only promote better sleep but also visually expand the space, contributing to an open and airy feel. While neutrals form the base, subtle accents of soft pale blues, gentle greens, or blush tones can be introduced to add character while maintaining a relaxing ambiance. "Mood lighting is key to ambiance" is the third piece of advice. Interior designers stress the need for varied lighting options, moving beyond basic overhead lights. The goal is to create a moody and soft environment using indirect lighting and dimmer switches. Combining ambient, task, and accent lighting is recommended, with a statement chandelier adding glamour and bedside lamps offering both functionality and style. The importance of natural light and appropriate bedroom window treatments is also noted. The fourth point, "Keep decor to thoughtful, pared-back amount," advocates for a minimalist approach. Instead of cluttering the space, designers suggest selecting a few high-quality, purposeful pieces. Sonya Haffey advises focusing on simple, high-quality finishes, while Regina Sturrock emphasizes uncluttered surfaces to maintain a clean, hotel-like environment. The article clarifies that this doesn't preclude personal touches, but each item should be deliberate and contribute to the overall mood without overwhelming the room. Ample bedroom storage is also encouraged to keep miscellaneous items out of sight. The fifth tip, "Consider your furniture arrangements carefully," stresses the importance of flow and symmetry. Enrique Vela suggests incorporating thoughtful design details like a banquette or cozy seating area, stylish bedside reading sconces, and convenient power outlets. Centering the bed with matching nightstands and lamps creates a balanced look. A small armchair or bench at the foot of the bed can add practicality and comfort. Thoughtfully placed console tables or dressers can provide additional storage and a designated getting-ready area. Finally, "Scent the space for ultimate relaxation" emphasizes the powerful impact of fragrance on mood. Interior designer Kathy Kuo highlights that investing in top-quality bedding and luxury home scents, such as candles or oil diffusers, can significantly enhance the hotel-like experience. The advice is to choose a scent that evokes joy and relaxation and make it a permanent fixture in the bedroom, further contributing to a truly restful environment. These collective tips aim to help individuals create a luxurious and relaxing sleep experience at home. #BedroomDesign #LuxuryInteriors #HotelStyle #InteriorDesignTips #HomeDecor #Relaxation #Bedding #ColorSchemes #LightingDesign

Decorating a studio apartment presents unique challenges due to limited space. Many common decorating choices can inadvertently make these small living areas appear even smaller than they are. Insights from interior design experts reveal several key mistakes and offer practical solutions for optimizing studio apartment aesthetics and functionality. One significant oversight is failing to utilize vertical space effectively. While square footage might be limited, the height of a studio apartment offers opportunities for storage and decor. Experts suggest incorporating tall shelving units, such as bookcases, to maximize storage without encroaching on floor space. Similarly, large pieces of artwork can draw the eye upward, creating an illusion of grandeur. Removing cabinet doors in kitchens, as demonstrated by a winner in Apartment Therapy's Small/Cool Contest, can also make the space feel more open and inviting by showcasing contents rather than hiding them behind solid facades. Another common error involves furniture selection. Counterintuitively, filling a studio with numerous small furniture pieces can make the space feel cluttered and cramped, rather than open. Designers recommend opting for a few larger, well-proportioned pieces that fill the space deliberately, creating a sense of cohesion and order. For example, one large sofa can feel less cluttered than multiple small armchairs. However, caution is advised against overly bulky furniture that is dark and heavy, which can visually weigh down the room. Instead, transparent furniture made of glass or acrylic is highly recommended as it allows light to pass through, creating an airy and expanded feel. The choice of wall color also plays a crucial role. While white walls are often perceived as a go-to for small spaces, they are not the only option. Experts encourage residents to embrace color, using it strategically to define different 'zones' within the open-plan studio. Accent walls, though declining in popularity for larger homes, can be very effective in studios for delineating areas like a sleeping nook or dining space. Painting a portion of a wall behind the bed, for instance, can create the effect of a headboard without occupying physical space. Furniture without legs, such as sofas that sit directly on the floor, can make a studio feel heavy and confined. Furniture with visible legs elevates items off the ground, creating an illusion of space underneath and an overall lighter, airier ambiance. Mid-century modern pieces, known for their tapered legs, are often ideal for this purpose. Even vintage furniture with skirts can be repurposed by removing the fabric to expose the legs. Over-decorating walls with too much artwork or decor can also lead to a cluttered appearance. It is important to consider negative space, allowing areas of the wall to remain clear to prevent visual overwhelm. Strategic placement of art, ensuring balance and flow, helps the eye navigate the room without feeling trapped. Similarly, while room dividers seem like a logical solution for sectioning off areas in a studio, they can often make the space feel smaller by physically blocking sightlines. Instead, furniture arrangement, such as angling a couch away from a bed, or the use of rugs to 'anchor' different areas, can achieve a similar divisional effect without the visual heaviness. If dividers are desired, translucent shelves that allow light to pass through are preferred. Lighting is another critical element. Dark studios appear smaller, but floor lamps and bulky table lamps consume valuable space. Wall sconces, which provide light without occupying floor or surface area, are recommended. Maximizing natural light by avoiding heavy window treatments and opting for sheer, light-filtering options is also crucial for making a studio feel bright and spacious. Finally, the common practice of pushing all furniture against the walls to maximize central space is often counterproductive. This creates a 'dead space' in the middle and can give the room a dormitory-like feel. Pulling furniture just a few inches away from the walls can make the space feel warmer, more inviting, and less confined, enhancing the overall perception of size and comfort within the studio apartment. #StudioApartment #InteriorDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #HomeDecor #FurniturePlacement #SpaceOptimization #VerticalSpace #LightingDesign #Decluttering

Compact living is a reality for many, especially in urban environments, but small spaces do not inherently mean a cramped feeling. Strategic design and optical illusions can expand the perceived size of any room without requiring extensive construction or remodeling. This article compiles insights from six interior designers who offer practical tips and tricks for maximizing the sense of space in smaller areas. Lighting plays a crucial role in creating the illusion of space. Harsh overhead lighting, such as spotlights, is often unflattering and limits the perception of depth. Instead, designers recommend utilizing layered lighting, specifically low and mid-level directional task lighting. This approach highlights specific features, corners, and cornices, effectively pushing the visual boundaries of the room outwards. Wall lights are effective for accentuating art and joinery, guiding the eye towards the room's edges and creating a sense of expansiveness. Optimizing natural light is also vital. Incorporating internal windows, for example, can enhance natural light penetration, establish visual connections between rooms, and add depth, making a space feel larger while maintaining distinct area separation. Reflective surfaces, closely linked to lighting, are another powerful tool. Furniture with mirrored or reflective surfaces, such as tables, can be strategically placed. Cleverly angled mirrors in a room can generate significant reflective optical illusions. More integrated design elements, like cladding door reveals with smoked mirror panels, can blur boundaries and add drama, making a room feel more open and less confined. Integrating nature and biophilia can transform small living areas. Access to outdoor spaces, if available, should be maximized, such as converting unused roof terraces or lightwells into functional, inviting areas with decking, seating, and string lights. Indoors, biophilic elements can emphasize verticality and depth. Tall vertical shelving, especially when combined with plants, draws the eye upwards, creating the impression of greater height and more usable space. The ceiling, often overlooked, is referred to as the 'fifth wall' and can significantly impact the perceived height of a room. Playing with stripes or patterns on the ceiling can create architectural interest or optical illusions. Extending the wall color up and over the ceiling, a technique known as colour-drenching, can prevent a room from feeling segmented and effectively elongates the space. This technique can involve paint or even wallpaper that seamlessly transitions into matching paint, demonstrating that a cohesive color scheme across different textures can achieve the desired effect. Contrary to common belief, small spaces do not necessitate small furniture. The strategic placement, usability, and visual interest of furniture are more important than their size. A neutral base, which can include dark neutrals, can soften a room's dimensions. Furniture with distinct shapes and colors can create 'visual pockets of interest' that direct the eye across the room's full length and breadth. These elements act as effective distractions in narrow spaces, making them appear larger. Built-in furniture, such as bespoke banquettes and shelving units, is also an excellent solution for optimizing space in compact areas. Finally, creating distinct zones within a small space can improve its perceived proportions. Area rugs are particularly effective for this purpose. By demarcating an area, a rug creates a 'smaller internal border,' which visually tricks the eye into noticing the surrounding 'white space.' This defines a new ground for furniture, contributing to a more organized and expansive feel. #InteriorDesign #SmallSpaces #SpaceMaximization #LightingDesign #ReflectiveSurfaces #Biophilia #CeilingDesign #FurniturePlacement #ColourDrenching

The article emphasizes the often-overlooked design potential of ceilings, dubbing them the "fifth wall" of a room. This concept, shared by interior decorator Heather Chadduck Hillegas, suggests that treating ceilings as an integral part of interior design can significantly enhance a room's overall feel and completeness. The author, editor of Country Living, initially skeptical, adopted this approach and found it made a substantial impact on her own home. The article highlights various methods to incorporate ceiling design, moving beyond the conventional white paint. One straightforward and budget-friendly method is painting the ceiling a color other than standard white. Hillegas, for instance, drew inspiration from the Southern tradition of painting porch ceilings "haint blue" to deter evil spirits, applying a similar blue to a dining room ceiling in a Lowcountry river house she designed. Sherwin-Williams' Lullaby and Sea Salt are suggested as preferred blue paint colors for such applications. The author recounts personal success with this method, having experimented with various ceiling colors, including light pink and black, in her Mississippi farmhouse. Beyond paint, the article outlines eight additional creative ways to enhance ceiling design. Adding painted paneling, such as beadboard, shiplap, or tongue-and-groove, is presented as a powerful decorative combination. An example cited is a colorful Alabama farmhouse where this duo creates a striking effect. Another innovative idea involves using galvanized metal, as seen in a Texas home where salvaged tin with a gray-silver finish was used throughout, offering a rustic appeal. Applying a pattern to the ceiling is another suggested technique. A kitchen designed by Gideon Mendelson features a green and white gingham pattern, which can be achieved through decorative painting or patterned wallpaper. Color drenching, where an entire room, including the ceiling, is enveloped in a single color, is highlighted for its cozy and immersive effect. An Arkansas family room, designed by Hillegas, utilizes a rich green to extend the landscape's feel indoors, with Sherwin-Williams' Saguaro mentioned as a suitable shade. For a natural and textured look, reclaimed wood is recommended. Lauren Palmer's 1980s ranch house, featuring textured pecky cypress ceilings, is presented as an example of how this material can ground an otherwise all-white space. Pressed tin panels, often salvaged, add significant texture, as demonstrated in a bedroom within a grain silo-turned guest house. A dramatic and edgy effect can be achieved with high-gloss black paint, such as Sherwin-Williams' Tricorn Black, which was used in a farmhouse foyer. Finally, whimsical wallpaper is an option for adding character, with Holly Audrey Williams using Fornasetti’s ‘Nuvolette’ in a Leiper’s Fork cottage, noting its timeless appeal and suitability for children’s rooms. #CeilingDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #Wallpaper #PaintColors #ReclaimedWood #GalvanizedMetal #ColorDrenching #HomeRenovation

The article explores the interior design trend of layering different tones of wood to create rich, warm, and sophisticated spaces. This approach moves away from monochromatic wooden furniture and single-tone finishes, advocating for a varied wood palette in surfaces, furniture, and accessories. Key advice from designers Alexy Kos and Che Huang of Child Studio emphasizes using sustainable, indigenous wood species like pine, oak, cherry, and maple, while strictly avoiding exotic and endangered woods. The article presents five examples that showcase the effective application of this trend. The first example features a dining room designed by Child Studio, incorporating mahogany library walls paired with Rosso Levanto marble and a round maple table. The choice of woods with slightly reddish tones contributes to a deep, opulent feel. The designers highlight that layering various wood tones and textures creates a timeless atmosphere, making a home feel warm and lived-in. They suggest that understated designs, where timber serves as a background element, age more gracefully, allowing accessories or art to update the space. The second illustration focuses on a lighter, brighter application of layered woods within another Child Studio project. Curved walls, furniture, and screens, all made from different wood tones, demonstrate how careful selection of wood grain can unify a space dominated by timber. The designers stress the importance of choosing specific pieces of timber with attractive natural patterns and soft, natural grain patterns. They also advise against high gloss levels, recommending oils and varnishes to preserve an organic appearance, avoiding an artificial or plastic look. A kitchen-diner designed by Melbourne architects Kennedy Nolan serves as the third example, featuring wraparound tonal wood paneling on walls and ceilings. This design prioritizes warmth, texture, and durability. Founding partner Patrick Kennedy explains that eliminating white and lining all surfaces in timber amplifies the material's warmth and softness, enhancing views. While initially hesitant to mix timber species, the studio carefully balanced tones, avoiding high contrast and selecting timbers for their inherent qualities, following a tradition seen in vernacular architecture. The fourth example showcases a vignette at Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, designed by NICOLEHOLLIS. Here, Douglas Fir-clad walls and ceilings are combined with a mix of wood furniture, including a deep red-brown sideboard and a pale-framed armchair, with cane elements drawing the natural materials together. Alexy Kos and Che Huang suggest pairing light and dark timbers to create contrast and interest. They recommend using different shades of oak for lighter tones and cherry and walnut for darker ones, using one as a backdrop and highlighting with the opposing shade. This contrast can yield a smart, sharp look, while softer, subtle tones create a more casual feel. The final example is an architectural hallway by Jake Arnold Design, where a subtle difference in wood tone between the staircase and columns highlights the architectural beauty of these elements. A stone table provides a contrasting focal point against the deep woods. The designers suggest that natural elements like marble, limestone, brass, and wool textiles complement mixed woods beautifully. This overall approach of layering wood tones and textures is presented as a sophisticated and welcoming interior design trend. #InteriorDesign #WoodLayering #DesignTrends #HomeDecor #MaterialMixing #ChildStudio #KennedyNolan #NicoleHollis #JakeArnoldDesign

This article details the transformation of a large, awkwardly shaped family bathroom into a luxurious, spa-like sanctuary. The homeowners initially faced a long, galley-shaped room in poor condition, featuring carpet, metallic wallpaper, and broken tiles. Despite its size, which prompted initial thoughts of splitting it into two rooms to create an additional bedroom, the owners ultimately decided to retain it as a single, expansive bathroom. This decision was made after realizing the significant costs associated with converting part of the space into a bedroom. The renovation project began after two years of the family sharing a small en suite while the rest of the house underwent renovation. The original family bathroom was described as a "filthy carpeted room" with a bath awkwardly placed in the center. The owners engaged Ripples, a design firm, to manage the transformation. Ripples handled the design and coordinated with the building contractor, ensuring a smooth process. While the homeowners acknowledge they could have saved money by managing some aspects themselves, they valued having a central point of contact for the project, which proved effective. A key design element implemented was the compartmentalization of the large space. A stud wall was introduced to separate the shower and bath area from the toilet and sinks, creating distinct zones within the expansive room. This approach successfully made the disproportionately large bathroom feel more intimate and functional, preventing it from feeling cavernous. The owner expresses immense satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting the calming atmosphere the renovated bathroom provides. They now consider it a wonderful quiet space for unwinding, contrasting it with their previous need to visit a gym to de-stress. The article also highlights specific design choices that contributed to the bathroom's luxurious feel. Twin basins with matching lights and mirrors were installed, not only to fill the large space but also to achieve a desirable "hotel-style bathroom" aesthetic. The placement of the bath under a replaced Velux window allows for stargazing while soaking, enhancing the relaxation experience. Initially, the design included only one tall storage unit for a minimalist look, but the family's practical needs for maximizing storage led to the installation of two units, prioritizing function. The shower is a standout feature, described as "phenomenal," and the inclusion of wooden wall paneling was a deliberate choice to recreate the relaxing spa ambiance the owners enjoy from their experiences in spa hotels. The success of this renovation has led the owners to consider engaging Ripples again for their en suite bathroom, which remains in a dated 1970s style. #BathroomRenovation #SpaLikeBathroom #HomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #LuxuryBathroom #AwkwardLayoutSolutions #HomeRenovation

The article details the transformation of a 2003 family home in Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, from a spacious but architecturally featureless property into a luxurious and personality-filled residence. Interior designers Mollie Ranize and Kim Serani of Dmar Interiors spearheaded the renovation, focusing on integrating character and style through various design interventions. The project involved replacing flooring, updating lighting, introducing new paneling and wall treatments, and adding two new staircases. One key aspect of the redesign was highlighting existing valuable features. The great room, for instance, possessed a double-height arched window, which was previously underutilized. Mollie Ranize capitalized on this by installing custom window treatments that extended from floor to ceiling, drawing the eye upwards and emphasizing the expansive backyard view. To infuse warmth and personality into the home, the designers focused on the homeowners' preferences for a modern yet warm aesthetic with glamorous touches, while ensuring it remained family-friendly and sophisticated. This was achieved through the selection of textured upholstered pieces and a consistent color palette, applied with varying saturation levels across different areas to create a pleasant flow and connection throughout the home. A significant transformation occurred in the dining room, where boldness and drama were introduced through custom wall treatments. A full drywall wall became a focal point with hand-antiqued mirror panels, flanked by black-painted custom wood slats with subtle spacing for depth. An accent ceiling with wallpaper and integrated lighting further enhanced the luxurious and dramatic effect, complemented by an oversized chandelier and statement wall sconces. Targeted improvements were made to existing furnishings, particularly in the kitchen. Recognizing the solid quality of the existing cabinets, Mollie opted for strategic updates rather than a complete overhaul. This included replacing the extractor hood, painting the cabinets, adding new quartz countertops, installing a patterned ceramic backsplash, and updating cabinetry hardware. These specific enhancements significantly elevated the kitchen's aesthetic and added personality. The kitchen island, often a central feature, was entirely replaced to provide an instant style upgrade and enhanced functionality. The old island, with an unnecessary second sink and an outdated design, was swapped for a new custom-built island. This new island offered more functional storage and expanded seating for four counter stools, improving the kitchen's utility and appearance. New flooring was a critical element in establishing a sense of flow throughout the home. The original great room had parquet flooring that did not extend into the family room or adjoining spaces. The designers unified the flooring by installing a beautiful mid-tone engineered white oak floor, adding warmth and movement that connected the various living areas harmoniously. Simple upgrades were also applied to elevate tired spaces, such as the home bar. While retaining the existing bar cabinetry for its masculine touch, Mollie updated it with black quartz countertops, a marble backsplash with brass inlay, new brass hardware, a new faucet, and three new pendant lights. This approach of applying luxurious touches to functional areas can be replicated in other utility spaces like pantries, laundry rooms, mudrooms, or powder rooms. The entryway, foyer, and staircase underwent a dramatic transformation from a dark and dated space into a luxurious and personality-filled area. The designers removed ornate and heavy railing systems, stone flooring, and purely ornamental columns. They then created a custom marble tile pattern for the floor, softened the walls with molding, rebuilt the staircase with stained wood treads and white risers, and relocated an oversized crystal chandelier from the great room. A clean-lined railing completed the grand staircase, contributing to an elegant and impactful entrance. Finally, the primary bedroom was updated to create a calm and luxurious sanctuary. This involved removing columns, installing consistent engineered wood plank flooring, replacing light fixtures, and painting all walls and ceilings. New furnishings and custom window treatments were then layered in, resulting in a contemporary feel with pared-back glamour that matched the overall luxurious aesthetic of the redesigned home. #HomeRedesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #ArchitecturalCharm #HomeRenovation #KitchenUpdate #FoyerDesign #BedroomSanctuary #DmarInteriors