That Time I Designed... Christian Grey's Penthouse For "Fifty Shades Darker"

The article presents an interview with Kristin Gray, an interior designer based in Los Angeles. Gray shares insights into the interior design industry, emphasizing that owning a design business extends beyond creative design to encompass business processes, marketing, logistics, and human resources. She highlights the importance of building personal connections and trust with clients, stating that successful interior design is ultimately about providing high-level client service with integrity. Gray recounts her professional journey, beginning in 2005 when she moved to Los Angeles after college with aspirations of working in design or architecture. Her first role was as an office manager at an architectural firm, where she acquired skills in AutoCAD and blueprint reading. During this time, she pursued further education, enrolling in a Design Psychology class at UCLA Extension, which combined her undergraduate background with her interest in design. This marked the start of a seven-year endeavor to earn her Master's in Interior Architecture, a period during which she simultaneously gained practical experience in the design field through various work opportunities. She reflects on her growth as a designer, stressing the value of self-belief, confidence in her abilities, and her commitment to creating homes that serve as havens for her clients. Gray also offers a suggested itinerary for a week-long visit to Los Angeles, focusing on diverse experiences. Her recommendations include spending an afternoon in the Downtown Arts District, particularly The Row, to explore Smorgasburg's food offerings, browse shops, and enjoy coffee at Go Get Em Tiger. Another day would involve a visit to Terranea in the South Bay for a stroll along the coastal walking path, a meal, and potentially a massage. For dining, she suggests Planta Cocina in Marina del Rey, noting its delicious food and appealing design. The itinerary also features exploring South Bay beach towns like Redondo and Manhattan Beach, complete with shopping, coffee or acai bowls at BlendzUp, food and drinks at Salt & Pearl, and dinner and entertainment at Belle Epoque. Cultural activities include visiting the Huntington for art and gardens and attending a show at the Hollywood Bowl. A relaxed day at the beach is also included in her ideal Los Angeles experience. In her 'shoutout' section, Gray expresses gratitude to the many individuals who have supported her career. She acknowledges past colleagues, friends, and her husband for their encouragement during challenging times, their motivation for professional advancement, their support for her education, their recommendations for new projects, and their trust in her work. Her website, 'kdgrayinteriors.com,' is provided as a resource for those interested in her work. The article encourages readers to nominate others deserving of recognition within the community, aligning with the platform's mission to highlight 'hidden gems' and foster community interaction. #InteriorDesign #BusinessOwnership #ClientRelationships #ProfessionalJourney #LosAngeles #TravelItinerary #LocalRecommendations #Gratitude

Interior designer Neal Beckstedt adopted a unique strategy for integrating color into the House of ELLE Decor, a 4,100-square-foot penthouse in downtown Manhattan. Instead of either completely eschewing color or using it extensively, Beckstedt opted for a sporadic application to guide visitors through the apartment and introduce excitement. He drew inspiration from past issues of ELLE Decor and the palette of Farrow & Ball paints, envisioning a well-traveled international couple as the home's inhabitants. The design aimed to merge traditional and modern aesthetics, reflecting the building's late 19th-century architecture and recent condo conversion. Berwick Edel, an interior renovation company, executed the painting and wallpapering. Beckstedt's approach involved layering colors and creating contrasts to establish a progressive journey through the home, from an intimate foyer to a more neutral living room and culminating in a striking wine room. In the foyer, Beckstedt selected Farrow & Ball’s Pigeon, an earthy green-gray, for the walls to create an intimate welcome. This was complemented by Blue Gray on the wainscoting and Farrow’s Cream, a slightly darker cream, on the ceiling. All three shades were applied in Farrow & Ball’s Modern Emulsion finish. This subtle combination was intended to provide a contrast with the brighter living-dining area, making the white spaces appear crisper. For the expansive living-dining room, Beckstedt introduced an unexpected touch of color with a ceiling alcove painted in Farrow & Ball’s Setting Plaster, a warm, dusty pink, using Estate Emulsion, and an accent of Archive in the same finish. This creative use of color aimed to add a sense of surprise and drama. Beckstedt emphasized that the key to cohesion without being overly matching lies in the relationship between the chosen colors and artwork. In the guest bedroom, a single wall was painted in Farrow & Ball’s Red Earth, a sunbaked terracotta in Estate Emulsion. This bold backdrop was paired with desert-hued furnishings, including custom velvet bedding and a Dan Christensen painting, maintaining a calm and modern feel through a harmonious color family and varied textures. The wine room, located just off the living room, was designed as the most dramatic space. Beckstedt transformed it into a glossy red jewel box by painting the walls and ceiling in Farrow & Ball’s Picture Gallery Red with a Full Gloss finish. The rug, vintage sofa, Napoleon chair, and a Larry Zox painting all matched this scarlet hue, accented by black and brass in the floor-to-ceiling wine rack. This room was the only one to feature a glossy finish, providing a striking contrast to the matte finishes used elsewhere in the penthouse, and served as a focal point for drama and shine within the entire home. #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #LuxuryPenthouse #ManhattanRealEstate #FarrowAndBall #PaintColors #HomeDecor #ModernTraditionalBlend #Showhouse

This article details the transformation of an Art Deco apartment on Fifth Avenue, New York, by BUILTIN Studio for empty nesters, Linda and Ben McGrath. The apartment, which had not been renovated since its construction in 1948, presented a unique challenge and opportunity for the design team. Despite its functional layout and stunning Central Park views, the interiors required a complete overhaul to match the clients' desire for cosmopolitan living and flexible entertaining. Simon Babin, Studio Director at BUILTIN Studio, explains the design process, emphasizing the goal of creating a modern home with warmth and glamour. The redesign began by addressing the apartment's 'estate condition,' which meant outdated interiors. BUILTIN Studio, known for updating older apartments, focused on strategic changes to optimize space and views. A key aspect of the renovation was the reconfigured layout, designed to accommodate both large and intimate gatherings while highlighting the panoramic views of Central Park. The team aimed to infuse warmth into the interiors through a carefully curated color palette, inspired by vibrant stones and striking fabrics, all contributing to an overall Manhattan glamour. The main living room exemplifies this approach, featuring matte Venetian plaster walls that create a sense of lightness and warmth. The plaster, based on Benjamin Moore's 'Muslin' paint, was meticulously developed over several mockups to achieve a soft, tonal texture without appearing overly burnished. This choice significantly contributes to the room's inviting atmosphere, transitioning smoothly from daytime brightness to evening coziness. Continuity and connection between rooms were achieved through modern openings with bespoke trims that echo Art Deco's stepped lines and clean ornamentation. A clever use of textiles further enhances this connection, particularly between the primary bedroom and living room. Identical drapery carried throughout these spaces, combined with a subtle pocket door, creates an illusion of a larger, continuous space, especially when the park-facing windows appear unbroken with the door open. The fabric, Schumacher’s Deco Leaves, chosen in a neutral colorway, pays homage to the building’s Art Deco heritage and became a significant influence on the home's overall palette. The design process involved extensive collaboration with the clients, building selections around fabrics they found appealing. In the dining area, a space-saving yet sophisticated solution was devised: a built-in, gently curved banquette. This feature not only maximizes seating for at least six people but also creates a cozy, contained feeling. The banquette's upholstery, a Woodland Leopard Velvet textile by Schumacher in a golden colorway, became the inspiration for the room's warm and luminous palette. The renovation also introduced new portals, notably the connection between the galley kitchen and the dining area. This transition point was utilized for a dynamic color shift, moving from the dining area's honeyed glow to the kitchen's darker tones of green and yellow, effectively highlighting the architectural feature and encouraging social interaction around the peninsula. The bathrooms allowed for creative experimentation with stone, leading to the selection of richly veined materials with warm undertones. Two private bathrooms were designed for Ben and Linda, each with distinct material palettes and design elements catering to masculine and feminine preferences. Finally, the bedroom was designed as a calm retreat with clean lines and a contemporary palette, intentionally simpler than the owners' previous, more ornate space. This approach allowed their existing Biedermeier furniture to blend seamlessly, adding warmth without disrupting the serene aesthetic. Throughout the apartment, the overarching theme is a visual connection to the Manhattan cityscape, offering the empty nesters and their dog a fully updated and exciting new chapter of city life, where the twinkling city lights become an integral part of their home's charm. #ArtDeco #ManhattanApartment #InteriorDesign #BUILTINStudio #HomeRenovation #ColorPalette #EmptyNesters #LuxuryDesign #FifthAvenue

Interior designer Susannah Talley, after moving from a 3,000-square-foot carriage house in Prides Crossing, Massachusetts, downsized to a 475-square-foot studio on the Upper East Side, which she affectionately refers to as her “treehouse.” This transition occurred 27 years ago. In 2008, Talley's experience with small-space living gained an additional dimension when she discovered an abandoned dollhouse and undertook its restoration. This project, detailed in her 2015 self-published book, *The Dollhouse: A Love Story*, became a shared creative endeavor with her husband, Truman “Mac” Talley, during his illness. The living room of Talley’s studio is designed to evoke the ambiance of a country home, featuring family portraits and comfortable chairs arranged around a decorative fireplace. This fireplace ingeniously conceals a flat-screen TV. The armchairs are upholstered in a mixed “Tree of Life” patterned fabric from Jofa, complemented by wall-to-wall carpeting from Patterson, Flynn & Martin. Talley offers practical advice for maximizing small spaces, such as utilizing floor-to-ceiling mirrored walls in strategic locations to create the illusion of greater depth. She emphasizes the importance of selecting furniture that is appropriately scaled for the space, advising against oversized sectional seating due to its potential to overwhelm a room and complicate the placement of reading lamps. Instead, she recommends comfortable club chairs paired with well-positioned reading lamps and movable ottomans over traditional sofas. Upon entering the studio, the inviting decor immediately conveys Talley's expertise in creating beautiful and welcoming environments. A notable design element is the decorative fireplace, which, upon closer inspection, reveals a crackling fire image displayed on a flat-screen TV. Above the fireplace hangs an unsigned family portrait. Talley ingeniously converted a closet space into a functional bar area. This space features checked skirting fabric from Schumacher, wallpaper from Cole and Sons at Jofa, and paint from Farrow & Ball. Talley advocates for varying wall surfaces through different wallpapers and paint colors to create the perception of distinct rooms within a small area. She also prefers wool wall-to-wall carpeting for its ability to hide dirt, eliminating the need for guests to remove their shoes, which she considers an imposition. Another clever design solution within the studio is a functional dressing table integrated into a deep window sill near the bed. This was achieved by inserting a “sandwich of decorative wallpaper within two curved pieces of glass,” with decorative trim providing a finished edge. Hidden right-angle brackets offer structural support for this feature. The dollhouse, found abandoned on the street, was a significant project for Talley. She recounts her immediate connection to the dollhouse, seeing it as an answer to her desire for a creative project. She meticulously sanded away crayon and marker scribbles, drilled holes for lighting using Christmas-tree lights, and painted the exterior a deep eggplant shade to harmonize with her apartment’s decor. Together with her husband, Mac, she embarked on furnishing and decorating the dollhouse’s rooms. Talley sourced miniature items for the dollhouse from The Tiny Dollhouse Store on East 78th Street, acquiring objects like a two-inch dog bed, a thimble-sized bunch of bananas, and a fist-sized baby grand piano. The dollhouse kitchen is meticulously detailed, complete with tiny pots, pans, plates, cookbooks, and a miniature bottle of wine. The dollhouse's boudoir features a black-and-gold japanned bed and matching chairs, a gift from her sister. The walls are adorned with deep pewter-blue damask, and the floor is covered with navy-blue felt serving as wall-to-wall carpeting. A purple cocktail coaster from India was repurposed as a bedspread, and an upside-down beaded votive holder functions as a perfectly scaled bedside table. A painting by Talley’s daughter, Expressionist painter Isabelle Peabody, hangs on the wall. The dollhouse also includes a miniature menagerie of four-legged friends, completing the domestic scene. This project became a poignant and creative outlet, providing a miniature world within their real-life small space. #homeDesign #smallSpaces #interiorDesign #studioApartment #dollhouseRenovation #decoratingTips #creativeLiving #upperEastSide #SusannahTalley

This article offers an exclusive look inside the various ultra-modern mansions owned by Kris Jenner, a prominent figure from 'Keeping Up With The Kardashians,' detailing the interior design and key features of these luxurious properties. In 2021, Kris Jenner acquired a $20 million mansion situated adjacent to her daughter Khloe Kardashian’s future residence. Beyond this significant purchase, she possesses three additional condominiums in Calabasas and a £9 million estate in La Quinta, California. The article also references her former ownership of the iconic Kardashian family home, which her son Rob Kardashian subsequently occupied and redecorated for Christmas, as evidenced by photos he shared featuring his daughter, Dream. The tour begins with Kris Jenner's bedroom, revealed during a visit from designer Diane Von Furstenberg. Consistent with the overall aesthetic of her homes, the bedroom features a minimalist design with a muted cream and white color palette, a low-rise bed, and cashmere covers, creating a serene and luxurious atmosphere. The living room, showcased during a Christmas photoshoot with her grandson Mason, is characterized by a sophisticated cream and black color scheme. Furnishings include cream and white sofas and armchairs, a black grand piano, and an open log fireplace with a herringbone wood backdrop, suggesting an elegant and cozy space for family gatherings. Another view of the living room from the hallway highlights its open-plan layout on the ground floor, featuring a large cream rug over wooden flooring. Kris Jenner's hallway is distinguished by double-height ceilings, enhancing its grandeur. It is furnished with a stainless steel console table and a wooden seat, complemented by wooden stairs and a matching bannister. A unique and noteworthy feature of one of her mansions is an entire room dedicated to crockery. This 'dish room' is described as a museum-worthy space, meticulously arranged with fine China pieces, underscoring her penchant for organized luxury and collecting. Her office, revealed in a selfie, is equipped with high-gloss black cupboards accented with silver frames and handles. The space is personalized with various awards and family photographs, blending professional functionality with personal touches. The kitchen is presented through two distinct styles from different properties. One kitchen, seen in an episode of 'Keeping Up With The Kardashians,' features cream cupboards, grey marble worktops, and a black dining table. Another kitchen, from a different home, showcases black cupboards and walls, with vibrant pink kitchenware providing a pop of color, demonstrating a diverse range of design preferences across her residences. These insights provide a comprehensive overview of Kris Jenner's opulent and meticulously designed homes, reflecting her modern aesthetic and luxurious lifestyle. #KrisJenner #CelebrityHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #ModernDesign #InteriorDesign #KardashianFamily #HomeDecor #MegaMansions #CoreyGamble

This article details the transformation of a 4,100-square-foot penthouse on Commonwealth Avenue in Back Bay, Boston, owned by Savannah and Henry Helgeson. The Helgesons purchased the unit in 2012, attracted by its ideal location—a block from Newbury Street and within walking distance of the Public Garden and Esplanade—and its two-floor layout with a private elevator, which was a more manageable alternative to their previous five-story South End walkup. However, the penthouse presented several challenges, including an awkward master suite and an outdated kitchen. The couple lived in the unit for a year with the previous owner's furnishings to fully understand its deficiencies before embarking on a major renovation. They enlisted the expertise of interior designer Nicole Hogarty with clear objectives: to open up the master suite, completely gut and redesign the kitchen, and optimize every square inch for functionality. Hogarty was inspired by Savannah's warm and inviting personality, aiming to create a home that mirrored this generous spirit, as the existing space lacked the elegance required for both entertaining and relaxation. Collaborating with Venegas and Company, Woodbourne Builders, and C & R Flooring, Hogarty oversaw a comprehensive kitchen renovation. This included installing tall Premier cabinets for enhanced storage, applying a custom stain to the existing oak floor to infuse warmth, and incorporating a wet bar that cleverly doubles as a breakfast bar. The living room received custom-designed large window seats, providing comfortable spots for the couple and their two dachshunds, Roscoe and Molly, to enjoy. In the master suite, Hogarty reconfigured two small closets into a single, spacious one. She also merged four awkward spaces to create an open, spa-like bathroom, which features a steam shower designed to accommodate Henry's height, his-and-hers Savoy sinks from Waterworks, and a large, squared-off tub. The bathroom's aesthetic was further elevated with Waterworks "Basketweave" tiles made from Thassos and Carrara marbles for the floor and shower walls. Hogarty adhered to Savannah's preference for a neutral color palette, predominantly using grays to establish a serene backdrop. This allowed for the introduction of rich textured details, such as a pieced-cowhide rug from Landry & Arcari, Parsons dining chairs from Restoration Hardware upholstered in Galbraith & Paul “Lotus” fabric, and an Edward Ferrell + Lewis Mittman sofa in Holly Hunt “Great Plains” mohair. The Helgesons' personal touches are evident throughout, with some artwork reflecting their travels, like a reproduction map of Paris from Restoration Hardware. The couple's passion for aviation is showcased through a custom bookshelf designed to display Henry's collection. To complement their growing art collection, the team worked with Jules Place, a South End gallery, to incorporate vibrant, eclectic pieces, including floral photographs by local artist Debby Krim and Karole Moe’s "Orange Wave" acrylic. A central feature of the renovation, and Hogarty's pièce de résistance, is a sculptural, floor-to-ceiling wine cellar. This design element was inspired by the Helgesons' annual trips to Napa and their frequent in-home sommelier-led wine tastings. The cellar, capable of housing several hundred bottles, is prominently positioned as the first thing guests see upon exiting the private elevator, serving as a significant conversation starter. Beyond the wine cellar, other subtle yet elegant details include an antiqued-glass backsplash behind the kitchen's wet bar and an oversized A. Rudin custom sectional sofa. This sectional was specifically designed with added length and lumbar support for Henry, upholstered in velvet with silk paisley pillows, enhancing both daily comfort and evening sophistication. Hogarty emphasized the versatility of the living space, noting its ability to comfortably host anywhere from two to twenty people, allowing the couple to relax informally or entertain formally. Original architectural elements, such as ebony and marble inlays and crown molding, were meticulously preserved to maintain the building's historical integrity. Additional design choices include Phillip Jeffries "Quartz" wallpaper that mimics stone veneer behind the custom wine rack and Kravet leather-wrapped dining room doors adorned with polished-nickel studs from Nanz, all contributing to the blend of modern elegance and historical charm. #HomeDesign #LuxuryPenthouse #BackBayBoston #InteriorRenovation #ModernLiving #CustomDesign #WineCellar #SpaBathroom #ElegantInteriors

George Covin, a Portland-based interior designer and principal of House of George Design, specializes in transforming residential spaces into personalized and vibrant environments. His design philosophy emphasizes the integration of color, texture, and individual personality into every project. A notable example of his work involves the interior design of a condo in Northwest Portland, where he successfully implemented these principles to create a distinctive living space. In this particular condo project, Covin meticulously selected elements that contribute to a cohesive and dynamic aesthetic. The dining area, for instance, features a prominent chandelier that, according to Covin, would be overwhelmingly conspicuous if not balanced by a rich palette of surrounding colors. This highlights his strategic use of color as a foundational element to harmonize diverse design components. Moving to the kitchen, Covin incorporated a bold design choice with red lacquered lower cabinets, contrasting them with white upper cupboards. The integration of wood panels on the refrigerator and pantry doors further adds to the kitchen's sophisticated and personalized appeal, demonstrating a thoughtful blend of modern and natural materials. This combination creates a visually striking yet functional space that deviates from conventional neutral kitchen designs. For the living areas, Covin utilized carpet tiles from Flor, ingeniously assembling them to form a custom rug. This rug serves as a central design element, drawing together and reflecting the various colors present throughout the home, thereby enhancing visual continuity and comfort. The living space also features a practical innovation: a hide-away Zoom Room bed seamlessly integrated into a bookcase. This multi-functional furniture piece addresses space constraints common in condo living while maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the room. The primary bathroom was redesigned to evoke a spa-like ambiance. A key feature of this transformation is the inclusion of a soaking tub enclosed within a narrow glass structure. This design choice not only adds a touch of luxury but also aligns with emerging trends in interior design, with experts like Houzz predicting such features to gain popularity in the coming year. The guest bathroom, though smaller in scale, showcases Covin's ability to work with a defined color scheme. Here, he utilized a quartet of colors—white, black, turquoise, and natural wood—to create a visually appealing and well-balanced space. The intentional use of these distinct colors demonstrates his skill in crafting unique environments even within more compact areas. The overall project illustrates Covin's talent for converting initially bare or standard condo interiors into personalized, colorful, and texturally rich homes that reflect the unique tastes of their occupants. #InteriorDesign #GeorgeCovin #HouseOfGeorgeDesign #PortlandDesign #CondoInterior #ColorTheory #HomeDecor #ModernLiving #DesignTrends

Grey is a highly versatile and timeless color for bedroom interiors, adaptable to various design styles from earthy charcoals paired with soft pinks to pale greys complementing minimalist Scandinavian aesthetics. Daniela Venturini, an art director and trend forecaster at Wayfair, emphasizes its role as a blank canvas that allows other colors to stand out. She highlights the importance of balancing grey with warm accents, textures, and pops of color to add depth and create an inviting and stylish space, avoiding a flat appearance. The article offers numerous ideas for incorporating grey into a bedroom. One approach involves using grey as a framing device by painting doors and windows grey while keeping walls lighter, drawing attention to the outdoors. Another suggestion is to use beige-toned greys or limewash finishes to create a warm and cocooning effect, as seen with elegant boucle beds paired with chalky textures. Grey can also serve as a neutral backdrop, allowing vibrant accessories and patterns to shine, with putty tones making colors stand out beautifully. For bedrooms with alcoves, grey fitted furniture in shades from soft dove to charcoal can offer a modern and warming alternative to white or wood. Choosing the right shade of grey is crucial, with lighter shades creating a cooler, fresher atmosphere and darker charcoals offering a more dramatic feel. Victoria Walker, product manager at Hillarys, notes that the chosen shade should align with whether the window covering is meant to blend in or be a feature. Creative uses of grey include painting a faux headboard with masking tape and varying tonal greys on walls. Darker greys, approaching black, can create a dramatic and sophisticated look when combined with dusky pinks and brass finishes, especially when the homeowner is an interior designer. Earthy accents such as charcoals, stone, and slate greys blend well with other natural tones, while muted sludgy pinks can warm up a dark grey room. Scandinavian influences demonstrate how simple grey bed linen and white walls can be enhanced with warming elements like a jute rug. Greige, a blend of grey and beige, is presented as a relaxing option that offers a warmer twist on classic grey while maintaining a modern feel. Dramatic greys are showcased by deep charcoal paneling, accented with striking lamps and brass details, with a tip to use wallpaper to mimic the panelled look. The article also discusses the importance of undertones, noting that cooler greys often have lilac and blue undertones that can be highlighted in the color palette. Color drenching, or saturating a room in a single grey tone, is suggested for creating a soothing and relaxing environment. Grey color combinations can be striking, such as pairing an industrial architectural grey with crisp white or buttercup yellow. Brass accents can add elegance to putty grey fitted wardrobes, and blush pink is an exceptionally good pairing for both light and dark greys, used as injections rather than overwhelming the space. Even small touches of color, like sunny yellow, can bring out yellowish undertones in grey paint, making a bedroom wonderfully warm. Industrial design naturally incorporates grey through slate grey woodwork, steel pipes, and concrete ceilings, which can feel cool but not cold when balanced with lilac-toned bed linen. Window dressings like pale grey shutters filter light elegantly, and gallery walls with complementary neutral tones and slim frames can prevent a busy grey space from feeling overwhelming. Overall, the article provides a comprehensive guide to utilizing grey in various ways to achieve diverse bedroom aesthetics. #BedroomDesign #GreyDecor #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorSchemes #ScandinavianStyle #ModernInteriors #HomeImprovement

Ochre, a highly pigmented yellow, is emerging as a significant color trend for 2023, providing depth to neutral schemes and drama to darker ones. This earthy amber hue is being embraced in interior design, notably in the Beverly Hills home of John Legend and Chrissy Teigen, which was crafted by celebrity interior designer Jake Arnold. The rising popularity of ochre follows the trend of 'Gen Z yellow,' suggesting a broader turn towards vibrant yet sophisticated color palettes in home decor, moving beyond predominantly beige, sand, and taupe interiors. Ochre is valued for its mood-lifting and warming qualities, injecting energy, confidence, and optimism into otherwise neutral spaces. Its versatility makes it suitable for various rooms, proving particularly effective in high-traffic areas like living rooms and kitchens, as well as in north-facing rooms that often lack natural light. Historically, ochre is a natural pigment with a rich decorative past, deeply rooted in various cultures and civilizations. Annie Sloan, a color and paint expert, highlights its ancient origins as a pigment dug directly from the ground. Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands, also identifies ochre as an older form of orange pigment. When incorporating ochre into a design scheme, it should be treated as a 'neutral' element, intended to complement and enhance other colors rather than dominate the space. Susan Deliss, a textile designer and interior decorator, advises against overly bright or 'canary' yellows, instead recommending shades that accentuate architectural features or add warmth to cooler environments. In Teigen and Legend’s home, Jake Arnold, known for his subtle, earthy design aesthetic, skillfully used ochre to create a vibrant focal point in the dining area within their open-plan living room, aligning with the clients' vision while integrating his signature style. For those hesitant about using ochre as a dominant color, such as a whole-house color scheme or on large furniture pieces, incorporating it in smaller doses is an effective alternative. Emma Deterding, founder of Kelling Designs, suggests using ochre as an accent color in elements like piping, cushion fringing, or artwork. This approach allows the color to provide a 'pop' and lift to existing schemes that feature beige, browns, and grays, adding cheer and vibrancy without overwhelming the space. The accessibility of ochre through various home decor items, such as velvet stools, throw pillow covers, and linen blend curtains, makes it easy to integrate this trending hue into any interior design. #OchreColorTrend #InteriorDesign #CelebrityHomes #JakeArnold #ChrissyTeigen #OpenPlanLiving #HomeDecor #AccentColor #ColorPsychology

Gray, often perceived as a dull color, is a versatile shade that can be used in home interiors. Its adaptability comes from its undertones, which can lean warm (with red) or cool (with blue), allowing it to harmonize with various color palettes and design aesthetics. This article showcases 32 designer-approved colors that pair perfectly with gray, offering inspiration for home refreshes. One approach to utilizing gray is by combining it with earth tones like browns and greens to introduce warmth, as demonstrated in a desk nook design. Gold accents, such as sconces paired with cloud-like gray wallpaper, can add shine and depth to light gray, which can sometimes appear silver. Rich charcoal gray, used as a trim color in a breakfast room, is complemented by olive green leather benches, enhancing the cool undertones of gray. For a cohesive look, multiple shades of gray, from near-black walls to silvery sheets, create a fully fleshed-out and intentional tonal palette. Pops of color can be introduced with shades like mauve pink, which brightens an all-gray utility pantry, or cobalt blue, used in small doses in a test kitchen to prevent visual clutter. Warm-toned browns can soften gray in a sitting room, making it feel cozy. Slate blue, derived from a blue-toned black paint, offers a calming and cohesive feel when paired with gray brick walls in a kitchen. Terra cotta velvet and natural wood accents warm up a cool, sage-like gray in an office setting. For a luxurious and restful atmosphere, a monochrome gray palette can be achieved by varying gray tones to add dimension. Deep green-gray cabinetry is grounded by cream-colored molding and walls in a kitchen. Hunter green cabinetry and upholstery, along with warmer woods and patterned tiles, evoke an English countryside feel when paired with light gray walls. Mahogany wood antiques can ground modern gray, especially when combined with textured gray wallpaper in a pantry. Light green, such as a gray-blue patina, complements chrome chairs and green-gray wall paint in a dining room. Light greige, black accents, and brass fixtures create a polished living room. Marigold yellow and magenta jewel tones are softened by warm gray walls. Sapphire blue, found in swirling gray cloud-patterned wallpaper, adds a punch of color to a dining room. Gold and coral tones warm up a charcoal sofa and light gray walls in a living room. Orchid purple, used in a vibrant rug and charcoal gray cabinets, brings a playful element to an office. Fern green trelliswork turns a pale gray office into an enchanted garden. Other pairings include hot pink and orange textiles grounded by muted pewter in a bedroom, and pale-blue bedding with silk-wrapped walls creating a serene bedroom retreat. Russet orange sofas contrast with almost-black charcoal walls and ceilings. Deep shades of golden yellow and brass add glamour to gray layers. Rose pink velvet on an antique settee stands out against a soft gray base. Warm white paint, like Benjamin Moore's Simply White, creates an interesting impression in a living room. A spectrum of warm grays and taupes makes a living room feel cozy. Clean white in a neutral-toned bedroom emphasizes texture and a laid-back vibe. Unlacquered brass sheets warm up a Brooklyn kitchen. Custom cerulean upholstery on midcentury furniture energizes a quiet gray study. Nautical navy accents are used in a San Francisco bedroom, allowing for strong punches of color against a gray palette. Finally, rich leather brown and sepia tones warm up a silk-and-abaca-clad bedroom in a historic house. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #GrayInteriors #DesignerTips #HomeStyling #PaintColors #RoomDecorating #HomeRefresh

Television personality Keltie Knight embarked on a significant home renovation two years prior when she purchased a fixer-upper in Los Angeles’s historical district. This extensive project necessitated a complete gut renovation. Despite her demanding schedule as an Emmy Award winner, *Entertainment Tonight* host, and founder of the *LadyGang* podcast and TV show, Knight was enthusiastic about transforming her new residence. Her initial attraction to the home was its fundamental structure, particularly the unique circular bedroom. After enduring nearly a year of sleeping on a mattress placed directly on the floor, Knight was eager to initiate the bedroom’s redesign. A self-described design enthusiast, she dedicates time to design blogs, curates her Instagram around homemaking themes, and actively engages in decor shopping. To ensure her vision for the bedroom was effectively realized, Knight enlisted the expertise of Kylee Trunck, a designer from Havenly, whom she discovered through the platform’s mobile application. The bedroom's existing state, characterized by its blank canvas and distinctive architectural features, provided Knight and Trunck with considerable creative freedom for the redesign. Trunck observed that Knight's personal aesthetic leaned towards the eclectic. Knight presented several initial concepts for the space, ultimately selecting a design that incorporated a subtle bohemian influence. The overarching design scheme for the entire home is anchored by a black and white color palette, complemented by a thoughtfully chosen array of plants. This combination cultivates a relaxed, "California-cool" atmosphere, reminiscent of East Coast chic. The bedroom serves as a direct extension of this established aesthetic. For Knight and her husband, Chris, the design prioritized both visual appeal and practical utility. Given Chris’s stature, a large, visually striking bed was deemed essential. The space integrates various elegant, custom elements tailored to their individual requirements. For instance, side tables were specifically wired, and reading lights were installed on both sides of the bed to facilitate Knight’s late-night reading habits. A designated reading nook was incorporated to align with Knight’s preference for keeping televisions out of the bedroom. Furthermore, a fireplace, a long-cherished aspiration for Knight, was included. These personalized details not only cater to the couple’s lifestyle but also contribute to the bedroom’s cozy and distinctive ambiance. The couple, who maintain a transient and bicoastal lifestyle, found that these bespoke touches were crucial in making the house feel more like a permanent home. The bedroom's high ceilings and exposed beams naturally exuded a sense of "effortless charm." Knight decided to sand down these beams to eliminate their original red stain and opted for white walls to further emphasize the room's height. Behind the bed, wall paneling was introduced to create a contemporary interpretation of traditional shiplap. To introduce vibrancy and depth to the black and white color scheme, Trunck strategically incorporated various textures, suggesting that the addition of patterned rugs and pillows would significantly enhance the room’s liveliness. As the renovation progressed, Knight began acquiring decorative items, including Rwandan "peace baskets" from a recent trip, which she incorporated as wall art. These baskets, along with her collection of books and photographs, were considered by Knight to be integral to imbuing the space with its unique "soul." #CelebrityHomes #BedroomDesign #HomeRenovation #BohoChic #InteriorDesign #CustomDecor #HavenlyDesign #KeltieKnight #CaliforniaCool

Interior designer Trip Haenisch, author of the new book "Personal Space," discusses his approach to decorating Hollywood homes, focusing on incorporating color, using furniture as art, and creating a "collected" feel without appearing dated. Haenisch, recognized as a top interior designer by The Hollywood Reporter, showcases his past projects in the book, which features a foreword by Courteney Cox and includes clients like Laura Dern, Hank Azaria, and WME co-CEO Patrick Whitesell. One prominent project highlighted is the 7,600 square-foot Cape Cod-style home of Erik Feig, founder of Picturestart, and Susanna Felleman, SVP Business Affairs at HBO, in Pacific Palisades. Haenisch infused the home with personality and modern color, adding a playful blue runner in the entryway, orange wallpaper in the television room, and an indigo bar that connects the kitchen and family room. The couple desired a chic yet welcoming environment, and guests frequently comment on the lively color scheme. Haenisch also integrated their expanding art collection, featuring works by artists such as Ellsworth Kelly and Chuck Close, by designing spaces that allow the art to shine. He also emphasized the concept of "furniture as art," creating a custom dining-room table with a unique wood base and an Italian mosaic fabric pattern. Feig's favorite room is the library, while Felleman enjoys the family and living rooms, appreciating the carefully curated pieces. Another project featured is the 8,900 square-foot traditional home in Bel Air belonging to Shannon and Michael Rotenberg, executive director of Matthew McConaughey’s Just Keep Livin Foundation and a partner at 3 Arts Entertainment, respectively. Shannon, who dreamed of a white brick house with black shutters since childhood, wanted lemon yellow incorporated into the interior. Haenisch used this vibrant hue throughout, including a bright door leading to the powder room, and a yellow lucite Alexandra Von Furstenberg game table in the formal living room, which Shannon describes as providing a perfect "pop of color" that balances the traditional style with a contemporary touch. The master bedroom features a soothing lavender and gray palette, with paneling inspired by an old Paul Williams house and unique light fixtures. Haenisch combined traditional elements like the paneling with contemporary pieces such as a Christian Liaigre bed. For their eldest son's room, Haenisch suggested a red-and-white polka dot wallpaper only on the back wall to avoid overwhelming the space. The Rotenbergs' home also includes auction finds like crystal sconces and Biedermeier furniture, alongside modern pieces such as an egg chair and Joe Colombo bar stool. The kitchen prioritizes comfort with a window seat for watching TV, complemented by vintage lights. Michael Rotenberg's wine collection is housed in a wine cellar with vaulted ceilings and a Robert Rauschenberg painting at the end of the corridor, creating a fresh juxtaposition. The backyard boasts an infinity pool and offers an indoor/outdoor California living experience, with sliding doors in the dining room opening to the patio, fostering a sense of togetherness during family gatherings. #InteriorDesign #HollywoodHomes #TripHaenisch #LuxuryInteriors #ColorInDesign #ModernArt #HomeDecoration #CelebrityHomes #DesignBook

Author and photographer Garance Doré collaborated with interior designer Sarah Sherman Samuel to transform Doré’s Mar Vista house into a personalized home, moving beyond its initial functional and modern design characterized by open spaces and light gray walls. Their vision aimed to strategically utilize natural light and create a harmonious, peaceful, and purposeful atmosphere throughout the house. This involved employing an earthy palette of neutral colors to enhance sunlight in the living room and studio, contrasting with dark, saturated hues inspired by the night sky for the bedroom and as accent colors. Doré emphasized the importance of having contrasting spaces within a home, noting that while the overall house is bright and airy, she desired surprising elements that add depth. Choosing the color palette was simplified by using the “Everyday Balance” Color Collection from HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams. This collection, part of the brand’s 2019 Color Trends of the Year, is designed to eliminate the guesswork in coordinating colors. It features eight earthy, neutral, and bold hues that are curated to complement each other seamlessly, allowing for easy mixing and matching without the need for professional design assistance. Doré, an illustrator familiar with color palettes, found the collection incredibly helpful and efficient in the design process. The living room was designed to exude warmth, clarity, and simplicity, making visitors feel welcome. Sherman achieved this by painting the space with HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams INFINITY “Pure White.” This particular white has a slightly shiny finish that effectively bounces light around the room, contributing to an overall bright and playful ambiance, avoiding a matte or flat appearance. The room's warmth and inviting nature are further enhanced by incorporating textural elements, organic shapes, and numerous plants. Doré’s studio, which faces west, benefits from ample natural light, ideal for her photography work. Pink, being one of her favorite colors, influenced the decision to use the dusty pink “Quaint Peche.” This shade was chosen to foster a creative environment without overwhelming the space, and its calming qualities, reminiscent of rose quartz, provide a mental retreat during busy projects. For the bedroom, Doré specifically requested the darkest space in the house to ensure a restful night’s sleep. The choice was the inky green “Dark Night” shade from HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams. This color effectively absorbs light, even the slightest amount filtering around blackout shades, serving as a softer and more refreshing alternative to traditional black or gray, while still maintaining functionality and complementing the home’s overall aesthetic. The article concludes by encouraging readers to explore more color inspirations from HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams at Lowe's. #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #HomeDecor #PaintColors #GaranceDoré #SarahShermanSamuel #DesignInspiration #SherwinWilliams #HomeTransformation

Choosing the right paint color for a home can be a difficult task, especially when aiming for a neutral tone that provides versatility without being too stark or too warm. While white is a common neutral choice, gray has emerged as a preferred alternative among interior designers. This article highlights Benjamin Moore's Classic Gray as a top designer favorite, along with five other highly recommended gray shades from the brand. Classic Gray is lauded for its extreme versatility, offering a cool and calm aesthetic that serves as an ideal backdrop for various art pieces and room designs. Designer Nancy Price notes that this particular gray allows the room's elements to shine, rather than the paint color itself. It embodies the concept of 'greige,' a modern neutral that blends gray with warm beige, preventing it from leaning too cool or too warm. This balanced hue makes it suitable for a wide range of interior styles. Beyond Classic Gray, the article presents other notable Benjamin Moore gray paints. Harbor Gray is featured in a Manhattan apartment designed by Amir Khamneipur, contributing to a luxurious and spacious feel despite the apartment's size. This soft, tonal gray is used on kitchen cabinetry, showcasing its ability to create a serene environment. Metropolitan, Benjamin Moore's 2019 Color of the Year, is described as a sleek and sophisticated soft gray with cool undertones. Ellen O’Neill, Benjamin Moore's director of strategic design intelligence, explains that Metropolitan fosters a contemplative state and provides an understated yet glamorous common ground for design elements. For those seeking deeper gray tones, Kendall Charcoal is introduced as a rich and dark option. Designer Peti Lau utilized this shade in DJ Drew Taggart's West Hollywood home, specifically in the dining area, where it provides a striking contrast against white ceilings and trim. Amherst Gray offers another elegant dark gray choice, as demonstrated by designer Analisse Taft-Gersten in her Connecticut home. She used it to paint a kitchen island, creating a sophisticated contrast with Calcutta gold countertops and Silver Satin cupboards. Finally, Gray Owl is recommended for its soft quality with subtle blue undertones. Designer Ann Wolf used this color in a Houston bedroom to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, particularly effective in spaces with high ceilings, where many colors tend to stand out. The article emphasizes that these designer-approved gray paints from Benjamin Moore offer diverse options, from light and airy to rich and deep, ensuring suitability for various preferences and design schemes. The selections are presented to assist homeowners in finding a fail-safe gray paint that enhances their living spaces. #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #BenjaminMoore #GrayPaint #HomeDecor #DesignerFavorites #Greige

The article explores the preferred color palettes of interior designers, offering insights into hues that are consistently incorporated into various decorating projects. It highlights five prominent colors: yellow, warm neutrals, blue, white, and green, detailing why each is a favored choice among professionals. Yellow is presented as a versatile and inviting color, with Charlotte-based interior designer Alexis Warren noting its ability to layer effectively with other shades and add brightness. Despite perceptions of it being a bold choice, yellow is experiencing a resurgence in modern homes, with examples such as sandy yellow kitchen cabinets demonstrating its charming and warming effects. Warm neutrals, including soft taupes, greiges, and off-whites with warm undertones, are emphasized for their timeless appeal and versatility. Melissa Read, creative director at Studio Burntwood, explains that these shades provide a calm and inviting backdrop, making them suitable for various interior design styles and allowing for easy updates to furniture and accessories without needing to repaint. An illustration features Farrow & Ball's Scallop in a light dining room, showcasing its undisturbed yet inviting quality. Blue is celebrated for its calming and peaceful qualities, often associated with natural serene environments like lakes or beaches. Denver-based designer Nadia Watts frequently pairs blue with green to evoke a sense of growth and renewal, aiming for peaceful, nature-connected, and cozy spaces. Ashley Macuga of Collected Interiors also favors soft blue hues for their ability to enhance natural light and bring happiness. White remains a classic choice, lauded for its freshness, timelessness, and calming effect. Sarah Latham of Latham Interiors and Meg Lonergan frequently use white or ivory, especially Benjamin Moore’s Soft Chamois, for its warm undertones that create an inviting atmosphere. Amy Peltier also recommends Benjamin Moore's Chantilly Lace for a crisp, clean, and modern feel, suitable for creating a timeless backdrop. Green is consistently integrated into projects by designers like Alexandra Kaehler and Allison Garrison. Kaehler appreciates its ability to bring the outdoors in, noting its warmth and versatility, whether used as a soft sage or a bold emerald. Garrison highlights green's soothing and grounding effects, often incorporating it through custom cabinetry, rugs, or simply through the addition of plants to achieve a natural and calming ambiance. The article concludes by reinforcing that while neutrals are timeless, the thoughtful integration of vibrant colors like yellow and green can also achieve enduring style. #InteriorDesign #ColorPalettes #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #YellowInteriors #NeutralColors #BlueSpaces #WhiteDesign #GreenDecor