Leanne Ford’s Latest Design Project Features a $15 Entryway Hack We’re Stealing

Leanne Ford, a prominent designer, collaborated with Semihandmade to create a new line of semi-custom cabinets. Her primary goal for this collection was to address a common issue with white oak door fronts, which often develop an undesirable yellowy-orange tint due to protective sealants. Ford aimed to achieve an unfinished, natural white oak look, a challenge she personally experienced on numerous projects, sometimes leading to extensive hand-sanding to remove veneer. Through her collaboration with Semihandmade, Ford worked with manufacturers in Ohio to develop a precise stain formula that delivers the desired natural aesthetic. In addition to the natural white oak option, the collection includes a warm white painted front, utilizing Sherwin-Williams's Shoji, a favorite shade of Ford's. The door styles in this collection are deliberately curated to be versatile and widely appealing, featuring a classic Shaker, a flat slab, and a 'Frame' option, which is a slender version of the Shaker profile. Unlike traditional Semihandmade offerings that focus on IKEA kitchen hacks, this line is part of Semihandmade’s own semi-custom range, meaning customers receive complete cabinet boxes with their order. Ford shares seven key design tips, drawing from her experience with her latest project—a historic home in Pittsburgh that she renovated and listed for sale. Her first piece of advice is to re-evaluate the conventional 'kitchen work triangle.' She suggests considering individual needs and cooking habits rather than strictly adhering to this layout, embracing a willingness to deviate for personal comfort and functionality. Her second tip involves repurposing cabinetry for bespoke elements, such as integrating cabinet lines into a vintage island, a technique she employed in a closet to create a beautiful, finished piece from all angles. When selecting door styles, Ford advises starting with hardware choices. The desired size, visibility, and style of knobs and pulls can significantly influence the most suitable door profile. For instance, a simple slab door offers maximum flexibility for various hardware, while a Shaker style pairs best with simpler, smaller options. Ford advocates for concealing appliances, making panel-ready appliances a non-negotiable in her designs to ensure dishwashers and refrigerators blend seamlessly with cabinetry. Regarding countertops, she favors honed marble over glossy, encouraging clients to embrace its natural aging and staining. In her Church Lane project, she utilized salvaged marble, over-grouted with wide grout lines, to create an artistic and imperfect aesthetic, emphasizing that perfection can be monotonous. For optimizing storage in shallow spaces, Ford recommends using floor-to-ceiling boxes equipped with bars and S-hooks for hanging items, a solution she applied in a bedroom with limited deep cabinet space. Finally, Ford suggests knowing when to limit millwork, emphasizing that a kitchen doesn't require floor-to-ceiling cabinetry throughout. She points out that Semihandmade provides side slabs that allow for ending cabinet runs, creating opportunities to incorporate vintage tables or butcher block islands and breaking up continuous cabinetry for a more varied look. #LeanneFord #Semihandmade #CabinetDesign #KitchenRenovation #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #DesignTips #WhiteOak #CustomCabinets

Leanne Ford, known from HGTV's "Restored by the Fords," is launching a lighting collection with Target under its in-house home brand, Project 62. This collaboration brings Ford's distinct design aesthetic to an accessible market, featuring elements such as brass exteriors, intricate netting, and exposed bulbs. The collection is designed to offer a significant interior transformation without a high cost, aligning with Ford's vision of making stylish lighting available to a broader audience. Ford had previously shared her predictions for 2019's top lighting trends, where cage fixtures were highlighted as a key trend. Her new Project 62 line directly reflects this prediction, incorporating net-like, cage features in at least five of its more than 30 different lighting options. This demonstrates a cohesive link between her professional insights and the products she is bringing to market, suggesting a well-thought-out collection that is both on-trend and practical for home decorators. The designer emphasized her motivation for creating the collection, stating that she aimed to produce lights that were not readily available at an affordable price point. She sought to fill a gap in the market by offering clean, classic lighting styles that are accessible to everyone, easy to find, and budget-friendly. This approach underscores a commitment to democratic design, making high-quality aesthetics attainable for a wider consumer base. Prices for the collection start at $30, making it an economically viable option for many households. The range of products is extensive, including floor lamps, sconces, and oversized pendant lights, ensuring that various lighting needs and preferences are met. This comprehensive selection allows consumers to integrate Ford's design philosophy into different areas of their homes, from ambient lighting to task-specific illumination. The collection is set to be released in-store and online on February 10. This launch provides an opportunity for consumers to acquire designer-grade lighting solutions from a recognized HGTV personality at a mass-market retailer, blending celebrity endorsement with affordable home decor. The initiative is poised to influence interior design trends by popularizing specific lighting styles and making them more widely available. #LeanneFord #TargetCollaboration #LightingCollection #Project62 #HomeDecor #AffordableDesign #InteriorLighting #DesignTrends #BrassAccents

Farah Prochaska, a Utah-based design blogger and freelance stylist, embarked on a DIY bathroom renovation project inspired by designer Leanne Ford's signature textured wall treatment using Surecrete. Prochaska was motivated after watching Ford apply the concrete coating on "Home Again With the Fords" and seeing it in person at one of Erik Allen Ford's Buck Mason stores. She successfully transformed her children's builder-grade bathroom into a more serene space, documenting her process and sharing key lessons learned. The project involved several crucial steps and considerations. Prior to applying Surecrete, Prochaska streamlined the existing bathroom by replacing an old all-in-one tub-shower with a new alcove bath and framing the walls with a waterproofing membrane. She also removed trim work around the window to achieve a sleek surface. A significant lesson learned was the importance of thorough preparation, particularly priming. Initially, Prochaska attempted to apply Surecrete directly onto the bright red, waxy waterproof board of the shower, as she had observed on television. However, this resulted in the red color peeking through and an uneven application, leading her to sand down and chisel off the initial coating. After this setback, she successfully prepared the walls with two coats of an all-purpose primer, creating a neutral and smooth base for the Surecrete. Applying Surecrete requires specific techniques. Prochaska advises covering the entire area, including floors, switch plates, faucets, and toilets, to protect them from the material. She also recommends creating a drop station outside the working area to prevent tracking debris through the house. When mixing Surecrete, it's a combination of half Surecrete, half colored powder (she used Whitewater), and one quart of water, mixed to a pancake batter-like consistency. The mixture requires continuous stirring and occasional addition of water, noting that adding water will slightly darken the mixture, which can be embraced by applying random swipes for a natural variation in tones. Prochaska suggests starting the Surecrete application at the top 8 inches of the room, near the ceiling, using a fan-like motion. This approach helps manage drips and blobs that might occur due to the awkward angles. After the top section is complete, she recommends smoothing out any drippings and applying a few random 1-by-1-foot swatches around the room, as this will represent the whitest shade of the cement. For cleaning, Surecrete is waterproof and can be easily cleaned with a kitchen dish brush and clear dish soap. The renovation extended beyond just the Surecrete application; Prochaska further committed to the aesthetic by replacing the old vanity cabinet with a floating IKEA unit, installing a concrete sink, and a marble countertop. An asymmetrical mirror completed the look, and she even sourced a matte black faucet which caught the attention of Leanne Ford herself, signifying the success of her DIY endeavor. #BathroomRenovation #DIYProject #Surecrete #LeanneFordInspired #HomeImprovement #TexturedWalls #BeforeAndAfter #DesignInspiration

Interior designer Leanne Ford argues against the societal pressure to retain inherited items, especially those that do not align with personal taste or bring joy. Ford emphasizes that individuals are not obligated to keep family heirlooms if they do not genuinely love them or find them aesthetically pleasing. She highlights a common cycle where unwanted items are passed down through generations, creating a burden rather than a cherished possession. Ford, while acknowledging her own appreciation for vintage pieces, differentiates between genuinely loved vintage items and those kept out of a sense of duty, suggesting that if inherited items make one's home feel like someone else's, it's time for reevaluation. The article discusses the widespread accumulation of 'stuff' in homes, including statuettes, vases, artwork, and furniture, often inherited from family members. This phenomenon is described as an 'epidemic of stuff,' ranging from 'boomer junk' to 'adult kid junk.' The severity of this situation is underscored by the emotional and practical burden these items can place on individuals, particularly when faced with items like old doilies or Precious Moments collections that lack personal appeal. Ford offers practical advice for dealing with inherited items. She suggests that if an item is truly loved, it should be kept. However, if there is an issue with its appearance—such as color or finish—she encourages modification through painting or stripping the wood to better integrate it into one's personal aesthetic. The core message is about personal freedom in home design and the importance of surrounding oneself with objects that evoke happiness and reflect individual style, rather than being bound by sentimental obligations that lead to clutter and dissatisfaction. The abstract further implies that keeping items solely for their sentimental value, especially when they are disliked, is a problematic approach to home design. Ford advocates for a proactive stance in curating one's living space, urging individuals to consider their future selves and their children by discarding unwanted inherited items now. The piece playfully concludes by suggesting that unwanted heirlooms might find a new home with Ford herself, reinforcing her genuine love for vintage items that fit a specific aesthetic, contrasting with the general notion of inherited clutter. #HomeDesign #InteriorDecorating #LeanneFord #FamilyHeirlooms #Decluttering #PersonalStyle #VintageDecor #FreedomOfExpression

The article focuses on how a designer transformed an unattractive, builder-grade air vent into an aesthetically pleasing design element using a simple, affordable purchase. Anthony Rodriguez, creator of 136 Home, found himself consistently bothered by a standard white air vent located near his kitchen, which became a daily eyesore due to its prominent placement. His belief that small details significantly impact a home's overall design prompted him to seek a more elegant solution for this common fixture. Rodriguez's search led him to a $28 brass plate from Signature Hardware, featuring an Art Deco-inspired pattern, which he used to replace the original vent. The replacement process was straightforward, requiring only a screwdriver to remove the old vent, clean the opening, and install the new one. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the new plate's damper box matched the existing opening for a seamless fit. Rodriguez also applied caulk around the edges to compensate for an uneven wall surface, further perfecting the installation. Beyond Rodriguez's personal project, the article explores additional creative approaches to disguising air vents, drawing inspiration from Washington, D.C.-based designer Zoe Feldman. Feldman's methods include integrating decorative wire-mesh panels into media cabinets to conceal vents, making them appear as intentional design features rather than functional necessities. Another technique involves customizing grilles by painting them to match the surrounding wall's plaster finish, thereby harmonizing them with the room's aesthetic. Additionally, Feldman suggests extending wallpaper patterns onto the outer edges of vents to seamlessly blend them into the wall design, enhancing the room's visual continuity and sophistication. The article highlights that addressing these minor, often overlooked design elements can significantly elevate a home's interior. It suggests that such small-scale renovations do not necessarily require extensive effort or high costs but can yield substantial improvements in the overall look and feel of a space. The examples provided demonstrate various techniques, from simple swaps to more integrated design solutions, to transform functional but unsightly fixtures into integral parts of a cohesive interior design scheme. This approach underscores the impact of meticulous attention to detail in home aesthetics, offering practical and inspiring ideas for homeowners seeking to refine their living environments. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #DIYProject #HomeImprovement #AestheticUpgrade #DesignSolutions #SmallDetails #BudgetFriendlyDesign

Once confined to mountain cabins, 1990s basements, and Swedish saunas, cedar walls are experiencing a significant resurgence in modern interior design. This wall treatment, historically associated with rustic aesthetics, is being reimagined by contemporary designers to offer warmth and a subtle evergreen scent without the dated appearance of its past iterations. The key to this modern revival lies in a strategic approach to finish, color palette, and accompanying decor. Traditionally, cedar paneling in its less desirable form was characterized by a glossy, orange-red tint, often paired with elements like Tiffany lamps and laminate flooring, contributing to an outdated look. However, a new generation of designers is proving that the natural beauty of unpainted timber—whether pine, cedar, or oak—can be elevated to create sophisticated and inviting spaces. The core principle for modernizing this material involves opting for a light, matte finish that preserves the natural texture and color of the wood. This approach moves away from heavy stains and glossy treatments, allowing the wood's inherent character to shine through in a more refined manner. To prevent the wood paneling from appearing overtly rustic or reminiscent of a bygone era, designers are integrating vibrant textiles, bold paint colors, and striking art pieces. These contrasting elements serve to modernize the space, injecting a fresh and contemporary feel while leveraging the warmth that wood naturally provides. The juxtaposition of natural wood with modern furnishings and decor creates a dynamic and visually appealing environment that transcends traditional cabin aesthetics. Max Humphrey, a Portland, Oregon-based designer known for his Americana aesthetic, exemplifies this trend by staining wood in lighter tones and pairing it with pale furniture. This method brightens the space and updates the classic wood-paneled look. Similarly, French designer Pierre Yovanovitch has adopted this style in projects like Le Coucou in Méribel, France. He maintains a monochrome palette, such as a rusty red-dotted carpet complementing a painted ceiling in the same hue, to update quintessential Alpine pine paneling. This cohesive color strategy allows the wood to integrate seamlessly into a sophisticated, contemporary design. Frances Merrill of Reath Design embraces the cabin vibe, enhancing the rusticity of wood planks with elements like checkered table skirts, oil paintings, and patchwork quilts. Crucially, she ensures the overall design remains current by incorporating furniture with clean, modern lines. This thoughtful balance prevents the space from feeling dated, instead creating a harmonious blend of rustic charm and contemporary elegance. The renewed interest in wood wall treatments signifies a shift towards natural materials and an appreciation for their inherent beauty when thoughtfully integrated into modern design schemes, positioning them as a compelling alternative to popular finishes like shiplap. #WallTreatment #InteriorDesign #CedarWalls #HomeDecorTrends #WoodPaneling #DesignInspiration #ModernRustic #HomeRenovation #MaterialRevival

In 1967, fiber artist Sheila Hicks collaborated with architect Warren Platner to design two linen-and-silk wall panels for the Ford Foundation headquarters in New York City. Platner was responsible for the interiors of the 12-story modernist landmark, designed by Kevin Roche John Dinkeloo and Associates. Hicks's original wall panels, which featured rosettes threaded around metal discs, suffered significant damage over the years due to an attempted fire retardation treatment in the 1980s, the abrasion from Eames executive chairs in the conference room, and cigarette smoke in the auditorium. Recognizing the historical and artistic importance of these pieces, Ford Foundation President Darren Walker, appointed in 2013, initiated their replacement. He commissioned Hicks to recreate the murals. Hicks accepted the project without an artist's fee, underscoring her commitment to the foundation and her artwork. The re-installation took place in August 2014, with Hicks overseeing the process. This reprisal of her work for the Ford Foundation coincided with a broader resurgence of interest in Hicks's art, marked by other large-scale public commissions, including a yearlong exhibition at the Palais de Tokyo in Paris, and a general renewal of appreciation for weaving as an art form. The modern tapestry was produced in smaller, modular sections by Enrico Martignoni, the chief installer, and project leader Dominique Pastor. This modular approach was adopted to facilitate easier replacement if any section were to be damaged in the future. Crucially, the new silk-blend threads will not undergo the same caustic chemical fire-proofing treatment that damaged the original works. Additionally, the new panels are more cost-effective, utilizing a silk-blend thread and plastic discs in place of the original metal components. The article also touches upon the broader design elements of the Ford Foundation building. Warren Platner, known for his opulent modernist style, integrated bold metallics into his interiors, such as the gold-plated, floor-to-ceiling doors leading to the subterranean auditorium. The landscape designer Dan Kiley, celebrated for his work on projects like the Miller House and the St. Louis Arch, created the lush indoor urban garden within the Ford Foundation. Architects Kevin Roche and John Dinkeloo designed the headquarters with the employee in mind, reversing the traditional skyscraper layout to ensure every office had exterior views or overlooked the indoor park within the ten-story glass atrium. Skylights at the top of the atrium, framed in Cor-Ten steel, allow natural daylight to flood the space. Even the executive chairs, modified by Charles and Ray Eames, featured brown leather upholstery and brass accents to complement Platner's design, and notably, still included pull-out ashtrays. #SheilaHicks #FordFoundation #TextileArt #ModernistDesign #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #ArtInstallation #WarrenPlatner #KevinRocheJohnDinkeloo

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

Target recently launched a limited-edition collaboration with designer Diane von Furstenberg, offering over 200 colorful items across fashion, beauty, and home categories. The collection, which debuted on Saturday, includes home furnishings with ’70s-inspired prints, featuring maximalist leaf, mod geometric, and animal-inspired motifs. The collection aims to provide a warm-weather upgrade for homes, with prices starting at $10. Among the highlighted home items is the Charlotte’s Garden Room Divider, priced at $500, which features a floral-animal pattern. This piece is designed to divide living spaces or create a stylish background for video calls. Another item is the Geranium & Ginkgo Leaves Comforter, available for $80, a botanical-print comforter set that is reversible, effectively offering two distinct styles. The collection also includes a Swivel Accent Chair, priced at $900, which has an eye-catching geometric print and is intended as a focal point for reading nooks. For smaller accents, the Sea Twig Washcloth Set, costing $10, provides a vibrant green alternative to standard white washcloths and is made from soft jacquard cotton. The Geranium Leaf Shower Curtain, priced at $30, is designed to refresh bathroom aesthetics with its leafy pattern. A Vintage Weave Bench, available for $450, is a versatile upholstered piece suitable for various rooms, such as an entryway or at the foot of a bed. In addition to home décor, the collection features accessories like a Stainless Steel Water Bottle for $15, designed with color-blocked patterns to encourage hydration. A Geranium Leaf Journal, also priced at $10, is included as a functional and aesthetically pleasing item for organizing thoughts and tasks. The overall collection emphasizes bright, statement-making patterns to brighten up any space, catering to those looking to infuse their homes with a vibrant, maximalist style. #DianeVonFurstenberg #TargetCollaboration #HomeDecor #MaximalistStyle #InteriorDesign #LimitedEdition #HomeFurnishings #SpringDecor #SeventiesInspired

This monthly series, "In Our Carts," highlights a curated selection of new product launches and collaborations in the home and lifestyle sphere. The June 2024 edition features a range of items, from bedding and rugs to furniture, lighting, and kitchenware, all chosen for their design and functionality. One of the notable collaborations is between Danish home brand Tekla and Artek, which resulted in a new line of bedding. This collection includes duvets and shams in three colors, adorned with Finnish architect Aino Aalto’s Kirsikankukka pattern, inspired by a Japanese scarf. The collaboration also marks Tekla's first venture into kids' bedding. Cold Picnic, known for its printed rugs, has expanded its offerings with a new collection of richly hued, solid-color rugs. These nature-inspired designs, such as Grass Green, Roasted Tomato, Sky Blue, and Pear, are crafted from 100% New Zealand wool, providing a luxurious feel underfoot. Dusen Dusen has introduced three new vibrant and graphic throw pillow designs: Daisy, Hourglass, and Ricrac. These pillows come in bold colors like sunflower yellow, denim blue, and Kelly green, adding a playful touch to home decor. CB2 has launched new alabaster sconces designed by Australian studio VUUE. These hand-carved alabaster globes are available in two sizes, 6 and 10 inches, and offer a blend of old-world glamour with a modern sensibility, suitable for various interior and exterior settings. Fashion designer Carly Cushnie has collaborated with Lulu and Georgia on her first furniture collection. This 11-piece line showcases a mix of materials, including cane, wood, bouclé, fringe, and velvet. Standout pieces include the warm-toned Yucca sofa and the burl-wood Sabal console table, offering extensive mix-and-match possibilities. Opinel has released a cleverly designed grilling set that emphasizes simplicity and utility. The stainless steel tongs are extra-long with notched tips and a curved edge for effective gripping. A unique feature is the folding knife that ingeniously transforms into a spatula handle, complete with a Virobloc locking ring. The knife handle also integrates a bottle opener, enhancing its functionality for outdoor cooking. R+D Lab has partnered with Mexican chef Elena Reygadas and Fenn Apartamento to create the Rosetta collection of glassware. This collection features three new glass shapes—Acqua, Sour, and Martini—inspired by ancient vessels discovered in Pompeii. While named for specific drinks, these versatile glasses are suggested for various beverages, such as white wine in the water cups and cordials in the stemmed glasses. Finally, Belgian architect Vincent Van Duysen continues to expand his collection with Zara Home. The latest additions emphasize natural materials like wood, concrete, and solid brass, featuring pieces such as a daybed, a library system, and organically shaped concrete side tables. Dark brown is a prominent color throughout this new iteration of the collection, reflecting a sophisticated aesthetic. Baggu has also collaborated with Collina Strada on a line of limited-edition prints for its reusable bags, picnic blankets, and towels. A new highlight from this collaboration is the Horse Bag, a mini zippered pony-shaped bag, and the Boxer Plaid print on the Small Cloud carry-on, combining playful design with practical application. #ProductLaunches #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TextileDesign #Furniture #Lighting #Kitchenware #DesignCollaborations #NewArrivals

Nidhi Kapur, the founder of Maiden Home, established the brand in 2017 to address a perceived gap in the modern home decor market. Her experience furnishing her first home revealed a prevalence of generic designs and subpar craftsmanship among large retailers. Leveraging her technology background, Kapur aimed to offer sophisticated yet affordably priced furnishings directly to consumers. Maiden Home sources its products from artisans in North Carolina, focusing on quality and distinctive design. The direct-to-consumer (DTC) model enables the brand to maintain competitive pricing while delivering high-end aesthetics. In the summer of 2022, Maiden Home launched Tribeca House, a temporary pop-up experience in New York. This initiative aimed to provide clients with a tangible interaction with the brand's aesthetic and demonstrate how Maiden Home's curated approach could be integrated into their personal living spaces. The pop-up was situated in a two-story, 2,500-square-foot loft, offering ample space to showcase a selection of items from the brand's summer 2022 collection. The layout and presentation at Tribeca House were designed to inspire visitors and offer fresh perspectives on contemporary home styling. The featured pieces at Tribeca House included several key designs from the summer 2022 collection. Among these was the minimalist Mulberry ottoman, characterized by its clean lines and functional design, reflecting a blend of modern simplicity and practicality. Another highlight was the Kenmare chair, crafted from ash wood and upholstered in a white tweed fabric, emphasizing texture and natural materials. The Vestry nesting tables also garnered attention; this pair of tables featured asymmetrical forms and were constructed from domestically sourced red oak, showcasing the brand's commitment to quality materials and unique design elements. The pop-up aimed to illustrate the brand's 'collected home mindset,' encouraging customers to view furnishings as cohesive elements that contribute to a unified and sophisticated living environment. By presenting these items in a curated physical space, Maiden Home sought to bridge the gap between online browsing and the tactile experience of selecting home decor. The initiative reinforced the brand's dedication to providing accessible, high-quality modern furnishings that prioritize both design and craftsmanship. While Tribeca House was a temporary installation designed to engage customers and introduce new collections, Maiden Home's core philosophy emphasizes the enduring nature of its products. The brand's focus on timeless design, durable materials, and expert craftsmanship ensures that its furniture is intended for long-term use, contrasting with the fleeting trends often associated with mass-produced items. This commitment to longevity is a central tenet of Maiden Home's identity, promising pieces that will remain relevant and cherished in customers' homes for years to come. #MaidenHome #HomeDecor #NewYorkPopUp #ModernFurnishings #DirectToConsumer #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #ArtisanCraftsmanship

Living in a small space often presents challenges, particularly regarding storage solutions and the inclusion of specific functional areas like an entry. While large dining rooms or expansive entries might be sacrificed, creative solutions can still create a welcoming and practical first impression for a home. This article highlights a popular and effective hack for establishing an entry-like space even in compact living situations. The core of this small-space entry solution revolves around three key components: an oversized mirror, a skinny console table, and wall hooks. The oversized mirror is crucial for creating an illusion of grandeur and expanding the visual perception of a small area. Placing the mirror adjacent to or in front of a window can further enhance this effect by doubling the amount of natural light in the space. This visual trick is fundamental to making a compact entry feel more open and inviting. Accompanying the mirror is a long and narrow console table. The primary criteria for this piece are its slender profile and its ability to offer functionality. This console serves as a versatile surface for various items, from decorative accessories and jewelry to a practical catch-all for keys, mail, and other small essentials. Its slim design ensures it doesn't obstruct movement or overwhelm the limited space, making it a functional yet unobtrusive addition. Completing the ensemble are wall hooks, which offer both decorative appeal and practical storage. Depending on personal preference and aesthetic goals, one can opt for a streamlined hook shelf or individual hooks for a more eclectic look. These hooks are indispensable for hanging coats, bags, umbrellas, or any other items that would otherwise clutter the small entry area, ensuring the space remains organized and tidy. For those who find a console table less suitable, an alternative approach involves adjusting the ratio of the mirror and incorporating a larger bench. A generously sized bench can fulfill a dual role by providing both storage and a convenient spot to sit down before leaving or upon entering the home. This variation is particularly effective in spaces where a console might still feel too bulky or where seating is a higher priority. An example of this is seen in a compact Brooklyn apartment, where a wall-mounted shelf maximizes vertical storage, complemented by a rustic bench and a smaller mirror. This small-space entry hack is not limited to tiny homes but can also be applied to larger residences that lack a defined entryway. By strategically placing the mirror and skinny console combination near the main door, any empty spot can be transformed into a beautifully functional and aesthetically pleasing welcoming zone. In such cases, omitting the bench can contribute to a more simplified and elegant aesthetic, maintaining the overall clean lines and sophisticated feel. This adaptable design strategy ensures that every home, regardless of its size, can make a strong and functional first impression. #SmallSpaceLiving #EntrywayDesign #HomeOrganization #InteriorDesignHack #FunctionalDecor #SpaceSavingSolutions #HomeDecoration

Dezeen Showroom has unveiled 14 new products this week, featuring a diverse range of furniture, lighting, and finishes for both commercial and residential projects. Among the highlights is the "Technicolour" textile collection by graphic designer Peter Saville for Danish brand Kvadrat. This collection draws inspiration from the colorful sprays used by farmers to mark sheep, translating this rustic aesthetic into a series of vibrant handwoven and robot-tufted rugs with color spots, iridescent curtains, and upholstery made from British sheep's wool. Saville describes the collection as bringing "the industry of the land, in raw form, into the living environment," likening it to "rural graffiti." Other notable product additions include the "Mouro" lamp, designed by Patricia Perez for Case Furniture. This portable and rechargeable table lamp, suitable for indoor and outdoor use, features a disc-shaped LED light that rotates 360 degrees, enclosed within a rectangular frame that doubles as a handle. Rainlight's "Phlox" collection for Okamura offers a comprehensive range of seating and tables, including conference chairs, lounge chairs, high stools, and five table shapes. The collection, characterized by its gently undulating silhouettes, is inspired by the petals of the night-blooming phlox flower. For storage solutions, Bruno Rainaldi's "Ptolomeo" bookshelf for Opinion Ciatti is designed to emulate the appearance of books stacked in high piles while providing structural stability. Named after the founder of the Library of Alexandria, this stainless steel shelf is available in black, white, or Corten effect lacquered finishes. Dedar introduces two new textile collections: "The Art of Jacquard" and a "Textile wall covering collection." The Jacquard collection features ultra-thin yarns woven directly into the fabric to create rich patterns, including tropical bird motifs, nature-inspired designs, bold graphics, and abstract floral landscapes. The wall covering collection, inspired by grand tapestries, includes four patterns, such as screen-printed illustrations on linen and classic weaves of jute and linen, aimed at creating a cozy atmosphere. The "Hymn" lamp by Hiroto Yoshizoe for Ambientec is another portable and durable lighting option for indoor and outdoor settings. It employs two magnets to create constant oscillations, producing a flickering effect reminiscent of a candle flame. GamFratesi's "Beetle Chair," available through Suite NY, has been re-released with four new upholstery options in neutral shades, alongside black or brass leg finishes. John Pawson's "Frame" dining table for Nikari, originally designed for his own farmhouse, is a minimalist piece made from responsibly sourced ash or oak wood with a natural oil finish, boasting a lifespan of over 100 years. Alegre Design's "Talent" desk for Actiu is a versatile, mobile, and height-adjustable workstation designed for educational and training environments, featuring a dry-erase worktop that functions as a whiteboard when folded. Finishes also see new additions with CDUK's expanded "Corian Solid Surface" range, now available in a broader spectrum of neutral and warm colors. This material is lauded for its hygienic, durable, abrasion-resistant, and fade-proof qualities, making it suitable for both commercial and residential applications. Forbo Flooring Systems introduces "Marmoleum Linear," a carbon-neutral, plant-based linoleum flooring made from linseed oil, waste wood flour, and jute, designed to mimic wood with irregular grey and neutral stripes. ADEX presents the "Habitat" tile collection, a sustainable ceramic option for interior walls made with 55 percent white-body ceramics for enhanced durability. Lastly, Decocer's "Crag" tiles offer a family of porcelain tiles that replicate the look of stone and weathered steel, suitable for indoor and outdoor walls and floors, characterized by an industrial aesthetic and textured matte finish. #ProductLaunch #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #TextileDesign #LightingDesign #SustainableMaterials #DesignInnovation #HomeDecor #WorkplaceSolutions

The article explores anticipated home decorating trends for 2022, drawing insights from seven interior design professionals, including Leanne Ford and Yasmine Ghoniem. The overarching theme emerging from their predictions is a shift towards a sense of calm and expressionism in home environments, moving away from some of the more playful trends observed in 2021 such as stone sinks, checkered rugs, blob-like candles, and arched mirrors. Leanne Ford advocates for a "free-for-all" approach, encouraging homeowners to experiment and embrace imperfections, citing her own use of coffee grounds for wall patina and recycled tiles in a guesthouse. This sentiment underscores a move towards unique, personalized design solutions. Rayman Boozer predicts a rise in grasscloth wallpaper, valued for its textural quality and ability to add a subtle yet rich layer to a space, allowing for bolder choices in pattern and color elsewhere, despite its higher cost due to natural fiber composition. YSG Studio founder Yasmine Ghoniem foresees a trend of indoor-outdoor flooring, specifically terracotta and travertine, moving into interior spaces. This trend is highlighted for its aesthetic appeal, ease of maintenance, and potential to challenge traditional wood flooring dominance, with an emphasis on experimenting with exaggerated grout lines for distinctive looks. Raili Clasen suggests leveraging patterned niches by wallpapering alcoves and crevices to create engaging display backgrounds, transforming simple drywall into decorative elements. Monochromatic palettes are identified by Clasen as a way to achieve high contrast using varied tones within the same color family, moving beyond single accent walls. Michael Hilal discusses the evolving perception of neutrals, noting a post-pandemic desire for vibrancy alongside tranquility. He highlights using color itself as a neutral, creating calming sanctuaries with rich, saturated hues like a moss-hued room with coordinating wall-to-wall carpeting and modular sofa. Hilal also anticipates a return to California design principles, focusing on natural, bold materials such as wood beams, paneling, rocks, and abundant plant life, reflecting a longing for connection with nature. Kathleen Walsh observes an increased demand for stylish and functional utility spaces, including laundry rooms, kids’ lounges, and pantries. She emphasizes designing these frequently used areas with both practicality and aesthetic appeal in mind, exemplified by a laundry room featuring hand-painted wallpaper, a charcoal farmhouse sink, and integrated built-ins. Finally, Cortney Bishop points to a growing interest in upcycled and vintage furniture, encouraging the repurposing of old pieces to tell unique stories within a home, transforming items like dressers into bathroom vanities or coffee-table book pages into wall art. This trend reflects a look back to unique, quirky items, embracing sustainability and individuality in decor. #DecoratingTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LeanneFord #YasmineGhoniem #MonochromaticPalettes #NaturalMaterials #UpcycledFurniture #StylishUtilitySpaces

Leanne Ford, a prominent designer, maintains a consistent design philosophy when it comes to lighting: "The bigger, the better," specifically emphasizing oversized paper lanterns. These large, lightweight shades are a staple in her projects, including her Pennsylvania guesthouse, where a taupe linen pendant lamp from Imprint House is centrally placed above a thrifted coffee table. A common characteristic of these large shades, including popular styles like Hay’s rice paper shade, is that they typically do not include a bulb or an electrical cord. Ford's solution to this challenge, and what she considers her best Etsy purchase, is a chic brass cord kit starting at $98. This cord kit is crucial for Ford, who notes its importance for integrating vintage finds and Noguchi lanterns into her designs. The specific kit she favors is from LeKrazy Horse, a Denmark-based Etsy vendor known for excellent customer service, timely shipping, and high ratings. The E27 base ceiling pendant kit features a bulb socket and a ceiling canopy crafted from solid brass, available also in a burnished brass finish. It comes in four different cord lengths, extending up to 157 inches, with the seller offering custom cord measurements upon request. A practical consideration highlighted by a reviewer is the need to verify the size of the junction box to ensure the canopy provides adequate coverage. Beyond its functional aspects, the cord kit offers aesthetic versatility. Ford suggests personalizing the twisted fiber cord, which can be custom-colored, by painting it or wrapping it with rope to better match the surrounding decor. She also advises creative ways to enhance plain white shades, such as adding abstract Sharpie swirls—a technique she herself employs—or pairing the kit with a mesh wire shade to showcase its design. This approach underscores Ford’s ability to combine functional necessities with personalized artistic touches, making the cord kit an indispensable tool for achieving her signature design aesthetic. #LeanneFord #EtsyFinds #HomeRenovation #LightingDesign #PaperLanterns #InteriorDesign #DIYHomeDecor #DesignTips #BrassHardware

The article details a successful loft conversion project in a narrow Victorian two-bedroom property, which was undertaken to address the growing space needs of a family with two children and a requirement for a guest room. The homeowners engaged Rees Architects, led by Daniel Rees, to expand their living area. The primary challenge was the limited ceiling height of only two meters in the original loft space, which would have been further reduced by the structural framework of the planned dormer. To overcome this, the architects ingeniously lowered the ceilings on the two floors below, creating a balanced and proportionally aligned three-story home rather than a cramped loft. The loft conversion resulted in the addition of two extra bedrooms and a bathroom, significantly increasing the property's functionality. The main bedroom, now located in the loft, features integrated window seat ideas clad in plywood. These window seats offer comfortable seating and garden views, eliminating the need for additional furniture that would otherwise consume valuable floor space. The interior design of the main bedroom is characterized by a muted color palette, fostering a calming atmosphere. Daniel Rees explained that the beams in the master and spare rooms were left exposed but painted the same color as the walls to enhance the sense of space and depth. Built-in wardrobes under the eaves maximize storage, with hidden compartments behind clothes rails. Angled brass skirting creates an optical illusion of greater height, contributing to the crisp aesthetic, while carefully positioned glazing ensures ample natural light. Innovative design solutions were also applied to the hallway doors, which were configured to maximize floor space. When open, these bespoke doors allow access to the master bedroom and ensuite. When closed, they effectively incorporate a section of the hallway into the master bedroom, while providing privacy for the bathroom. Magnets embedded in the door leaves ensure they remain fully open at a 90-degree angle, maintaining a flush finish. A large rooflight with an integrated blackout blind illuminates this flexible hallway area. The walls in certain sections feature a rubber and cork material, which not only provides a contrasting texture against the black design elements but also offers acoustic insulation properties to absorb sound. The new bathroom in the loft showcases modern design with clean, uncluttered fixtures. Wall-hung sanitaryware contributes to a sense of spaciousness. The walls are covered in Marmoleum, a natural and CO2-neutral material that provides a durable, low-maintenance, and seamless finish, avoiding the breaks typically seen with wall tiles. The windows are strategically placed to create an elongated appearance, further enhancing the perception of space. A compact walk-in shower is included, without a glass enclosure, simplifying maintenance, and the floor is also finished with Marmoleum in a pattern reflecting the nearby cork and rubber walls. Matte black shower fittings complete the contemporary look. The guest bedroom is designed as a multifunctional space with movable furniture, allowing for adaptability. Olive green walls and dark floors provide an effective contrast, with the window framing garden views. Despite the deep hues, light-colored furnishings and a bright ceiling maintain an airy feel. Before the renovation, the property had a standard, cramped Victorian layout with only two bedrooms, which was insufficient for the family's needs. The loft conversion transformed this into a more spacious and balanced family home, demonstrating how upward expansion can be a highly effective solution for creating additional living areas. #LoftConversion #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign #SpaceMaximization #VictorianProperty #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #BathroomDesign

The article details a DIY project by designer Drew Michael Scott, known as Lone Fox, who transforms a basic IKEA ottoman into a stylish, skirted upholstered bench. This hack leverages the growing trend of furniture skirts in interior design for 2025. Scott utilizes two affordable IKEA products: the IKEA Dalholen bench and IKEA HÄGGVECKMAL curtains. The project is presented as an accessible and budget-friendly way for individuals to incorporate a significant design trend into their homes without incurring substantial costs associated with purchasing new, high-end furniture. The transformation begins with the preparation of the IKEA Dalholen bench. The initial step involves removing any existing buttons from the bench. Scott advises cutting the string on the backside of the buttons to easily pop them out from the front. This ensures a clean surface for the subsequent reupholstering process and prepares the bench for its new aesthetic. This part of the process is highlighted as surprisingly satisfying due to the ease of button removal. Following the button removal, the next stage focuses on cutting and stapling fabric to the top of the bench. Scott uses one panel of the IKEA HÄGGVECKMAL curtains for this purpose. The fabric piece is cut slightly larger than the bench's top surface to allow for folding and stapling. The designer instructs to staple one side of the fabric, pull it taut across to the opposite side, and then staple it firmly to ensure a smooth, tight finish. For the corners, the fabric is neatly tucked in and stapled on the underside, with any excess material trimmed away. The natural lines of the plaid curtain fabric serve as a useful guide for consistent stapling, contributing to a professional appearance. Once the fabric is securely stapled to the bench top, the original buttons are reattached. Scott uses embroidery floss and a needle to thread through the buttons and then through the original button holes on the bench. The floss is then stapled on the backside of the bench, mimicking the original attachment method. This step is crucial for tightening any loose fabric on the bench's surface and is emphasized as giving the piece a professionally upholstered look, enhancing its overall elegance and finish. The final two steps involve creating and attaching the skirt. For the skirt fabric, the second IKEA HÄGGVECKMAL curtain panel is used. Scott cuts the curtain panel to the same length as the bench legs, ensuring that the existing hems of the curtain can be utilized to avoid extra sewing. This attention to detail simplifies the DIY process. To achieve the desired skirted effect, the cut edge of the fabric is gathered using embroidery floss and a needle. This gathered fabric is then strategically placed around the perimeter of the bench and stapled securely. Each of the prepared fabric panels is designed to cover one long edge and one short edge of the bench, creating a continuous and cohesive skirt. The article concludes by praising Scott's ingenious IKEA hacks for their ability to transform simple furniture into character-filled pieces on a budget, making this particular project an ideal weekend DIY for those looking to embrace the skirted furniture trend. #IKEAHack #DIYFurniture #InteriorDesignTrends #FurnitureSkirts #HomeDecor #BudgetDecor #UpholsteredBench #WeekendProject