Rachel Zoe’s Tips On Styling Your Home

This article explores ten chic decor ideas inspired by Rachel Zoe's personal bedroom, offering readers practical suggestions to recreate a similar glamorous aesthetic in their own spaces. The inspiration is drawn from an exclusive image featured in Zoe's upcoming book, "Living In Style." The first suggestion focuses on establishing a strong foundation with a canopy bed, emphasizing its ability to create a sense of luxury and defined space within a bedroom. This element serves as a central focal point for the overall design. Next, the article highlights the importance of incorporating texture through a faux fur throw. This addition introduces softness, warmth, and visual interest, contributing to a rich and inviting atmosphere. To personalize the space, the article recommends expressing individual style with a fashion print. This allows for the integration of artistic elements that reflect personal taste and add a unique touch to the decor. Fresh cut flowers are suggested to invigorate the room, with an emphasis on single-variety bouquets in white, such as calla lilies, hydrangeas, or roses. This detail adds a touch of natural elegance and freshness. The fifth idea involves playing with pops of color through decorative pillows. This strategy offers an opportunity to introduce vibrant hues and patterns, enhancing visual appeal and comfort without overwhelming the space. Providing plentiful seating with chic chairs is another key recommendation, ensuring both functionality and style. This allows for comfortable areas within the bedroom for reading or relaxation. To organize accessories stylishly, the article suggests utilizing a mirrored tray. This item combines practicality with a touch of sophistication, reflecting light and adding a decorative element to dressers or nightstands. Honoring tea time with a designer kettle is presented as a way to introduce an element of refined living. This detail contributes to a luxurious and thoughtful atmosphere within the bedroom. Adding ambience with a scented candle is advised for creating a calming and pleasant environment. Scent plays a crucial role in setting the mood and enhancing the overall sensory experience of the room. Finally, the article suggests looking to Lucite for lighting solutions. Lucite lamps offer a modern, clean aesthetic, providing illumination while maintaining a light and airy feel to the decor. #RachelZoe #BedroomDecor #GlamStyle #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #LuxuryLiving #DecorTips #FashionInspiredHome #StylishLiving

The article compiles a list of 27 home design trends that individuals find irritating or 'ick-worthy,' gathered from the BuzzFeed Community. These trends range from common aesthetic choices to functional design elements that users believe detract from comfort, practicality, or personal style. One recurring complaint targets the prevalence of gray and beige color palettes in home decor, with contributors arguing that these neutral tones create bland and uninspiring living spaces, even extending to children's nurseries and toys, which are seen as detrimental to child development. Another common 'ick' is cool or white-toned lighting, which many compare to the sterile atmosphere of a doctor's office or warehouse, rather than a cozy home environment. Functional design elements also draw criticism, such as front doors that do not face the front of the house, making navigation confusing for visitors. The misuse of bookshelves for decorative items instead of books is highlighted as a source of clutter and a pretense of trendiness. Patterned wallpaper in every room, especially when clashing patterns are used together, is described as overwhelming and causing an 'acid trip' effect. Similarly, faux shutters that are clearly non-functional are disliked for their deceptive appearance. Lighting and flooring choices also receive negative feedback. Ceiling fans with a single, flat light are deemed unappealing compared to those with multiple lamps. Tiled counters are criticized for their susceptibility to grime accumulating in the grout lines, while strip lighting is seen as creating a clinical or gallery-like atmosphere rather than a homely one. The impracticality of carpets or rugs in dining rooms is noted due to potential spills and cleaning difficulties. Storage solutions like floating shelves are broadly disliked for collecting dust, being impractical, and appearing cheap. Dark-colored tiles, particularly black, are considered problematic in kitchens and bathrooms as they can make spaces feel enclosed and make it difficult to spot bugs. Barn doors used for bathrooms are specifically called out for their lack of privacy and inability to contain odors. The absence of lamps in favor of recessed lighting in some wealthy homes is noted as a frustrating trend, contributing to a less inviting ambiance. Decorative elements like dried vine balls and signs with generic phrases such as "live, laugh, love" are found to be dusty and cheesy, respectively. Exposed lightbulbs, including large skeleton pendants and Edison bulbs, are equated to exposed wires and seen as aesthetically unpleasing. Feature walls, particularly those with dated textures or colors, are criticized for being difficult and costly to change once they go out of style. Bathroom design trends that are disliked include open showers without curtains or glass enclosures, which result in cold experiences, and freestanding bathtubs placed too close to walls, making cleaning difficult. Finally, crushed velvet furniture is dismissed as having "live, laugh, love" vibes, and low-slung, armless, or extremely deep seating is criticized for being uncomfortable and inaccessible for individuals with physical impairments or age-related stiffness, signaling an unwelcoming environment for older or disabled guests. The practice of placing area rugs on top of carpeting is also universally panned as unhygienic and aesthetically displeasing. The article concludes by inviting readers to share their own home design 'icks.' #HomeDecorTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeAesthetics #DesignIcks #HomeImprovement #DecoratingTips #BuzzFeedCommunity

The article delves into the world of professional prop stylists, revealing their secrets to making any room appear "camera-ready," similar to the aesthetically pleasing spaces often featured in magazines. These stylists, distinct from designers, excel at rearranging existing household items to enhance visual appeal. Their expertise focuses on refining a room's presentation, ensuring it looks its best for photographs or simply for everyday enjoyment. The techniques shared are practical and often involve small, strategic adjustments that can significantly impact a space's overall look and feel. One fundamental tip is to "embrace the tray." Los Angeles-based stylist Liz Strong highlights how trays effectively organize clutter, transforming disparate items like coffee makers and mugs into a cohesive coffee station. This strategy is also useful for stovetop essentials or bathroom vanities, creating order and visual unity. Another common homeowner error, according to New York stylist Matthew Gleason, is hanging art too high. He suggests that artwork should be centered at eye level, approximately 57 inches from the ground, to achieve optimal visual balance. For soft furnishings, the article recommends "sizing up on pillow inserts." Using an insert that is two inches larger than the pillow cover ensures a plumper, more luxurious look. Texas stylist Becki Griffin further suggests adding Poly-fil to saggy pillow corners for an inexpensive yet effective fluff. Additionally, for perfectly straight draperies, stylists advise raiding the tackle box for fishing weights. Inserting these weights into the bottom hem of curtains helps them hang evenly and can even compensate if the drapes are slightly too short. Stylists also encourage "embracing art in unlikely spots." California-based stylist Heather Bullard suggests placing artwork in unexpected areas, such as inside a curio cabinet, propped on a dresser, or layered on bookshelves, to add personality and visual interest. To address unsightly cord bumps under rugs, the article recommends using flat extension cords, which maintain a smooth floor surface. When it comes to bookshelves, the advice is to "loosen them up." Books should not be pushed flush against the back of the shelf; instead, their spines should be closer to the front edge. Incorporating horizontal stacks of larger books, interspersed with vertically arranged ones of varying heights, along with non-book items like pottery or artwork, creates a dynamic and appealing display. Removing dust jackets can also contribute to a more refined look. Antique bread boards are a staple in stylists' kits, valued for their ability to add warmth to kitchens and, as Mississippi-based stylist Page Mullins notes, to discreetly hide electrical outlets when propped against a backsplash. "Showing off your groceries" involves arranging fresh produce, particularly lemons or artichokes, in large wooden bowls on kitchen islands or counters to introduce vibrant color and life. When styling open kitchen shelves, Heather Bullard emphasizes varying heights, for example, placing a bowl next to a tall pitcher rather than another similarly sized item, to create visual interest. A good steamer is also considered an essential tool for quickly removing wrinkles from fabrics like sink skirts, table linens, and draperies. "Bringing on the baskets" serves a dual purpose: hiding clutter and adding texture to a space with their utilitarian yet decorative appeal. "Going big with branches" involves using large, cut branches in vases, especially foraged ones, to create dramatic height and natural elegance. Finally, the article encourages "getting quirky" by incorporating imperfect or whimsical items that tell a story, such as studio pottery, a found feather, or family heirlooms. The "rule of threes" is also highlighted, where grouping items in threes is considered more aesthetically pleasing. This can be applied by combining bowls, boxes, and large books, often topped with a brass object for a polished finish. #HomeStyling #DecoratingTips #InteriorDesign #PropStyling #HomeDecor #DesignTricks #KitchenDesign #BedroomDesign #BookshelfStyling

This article highlights various home decor and furniture pieces, emphasizing unique designs, craftsmanship, and the stories behind their creation. It features a reintroduction of the Lawrence Peabody chair from 1962, now custom-crafted in America from solid teak or wicker with high-density foam cushions and customizable fabric choices. Another piece is Shanan Campanaro's largest rug collection for Eskayel, inspired by Marrakech and the High Atlas Mountains. This collection includes the Kotoubia/Duomo rug, made from Merino wool and silk blend, hand-knotted with varied weave structures and pile heights. The article also presents a whimsical kitchen apron called 'Siberia' by Helen Wilson of Witch and Watchman, depicting a jungle of animals on a crimson Siberica leaf background, offering an eccentric take on chinoiserie. Pillows designed by Sigi Ahl are showcased, crafted from felt made from recycled clothing by Eileen Fisher, as part of Fisher's zero-waste initiative, which has seen over a million clothing items returned. Joana Aranha's Fingerprint Chaise Longue, made from Indian Acacia wood with an extra matte varnish and a linen-cotton blend upholstery, is also featured. Her pillows incorporate hand-sewn gold zippers and a trademark tassel with the 'flower of India' insignia, inspired by a red flower Aranha found in New Delhi. Adriana Hoyos' Rumba upholstered chair is described with its distinctive silhouette, pronounced curves, generous seat, and gold-finish metal studs on a wooden frame, combining comfort, craftsmanship, and design. The Francis desk, named after Hillary Petrie's father, is presented as a simple yet complex piece with intricate joinery, ideal for floating in a room. This custom version is crafted from natural Douglas fir with a clear water-based finish and saddle leather drawers, all made in Egg Collective's woodshop or in collaboration with New York City fabricators. Michael Wainwright's new artisanal dinnerware brand for Lenox, 'Crafted,' introduces the Pompeii collection, which features durable stoneware with charming blue-on-white patterns and gold accents, designed for playful layering and everyday use. The Margot Chest by Bruce Andrews is highlighted for its dazzling emerald green, piano-ribbed front, and silver leaf-covered solid maple base with contoured legs. Handcrafted in America, this piece measures 40 3/4 inches wide, 18 3/4 inches deep, and 44 inches tall from its 12-inch leg. Aoife Mullane's textiles feature foiling on fabric, drawing inspiration from sea glass and pebbles, incorporating glamorous metallic touches in bronze, copper, and silver. Michele Varian's lighting designs are noted for their use of solid, unplated metals like brass, copper, or steel, with sculptural Mala 'bead' pendants inspired by Constantin Brancusi and modern primitive design, which will naturally patina over time. Alexandra Petrache's HALFDROP textile collection, specifically the Layers Yellow pattern, is shown, inspired by antique Romanian rag rugs. This reinterpretation features bold, organically layered patterns in mustard yellow and complementary grays, with hand-drawn lines enhancing fluidity. These 20-inch pillows are made of 100 percent cotton. The Lake Shore Watercolor Console from John Strauss Furniture is presented as a piece of art, featuring a watercolor by Tracy Hiner digitally printed and applied as a veneer to the doors, protected by an acrylic coating. The console has a satin sheen navy lacquer finish, stainless steel legs, and touch-latch doors with adjustable shelves. Lastly, Stacy Kunstel's Chunky Captain Compass Table, designed with Michael Partenio, features a massive turned maple base painted in a glossy custom Benjamin Moore color, Blueberry Hill, and topped with a 48-inch white-honed Carrara marble. Maggie Cruz’s Alexandra Cane Bench, influenced by her Cuban heritage and Miami, showcases Art Deco styling in a coral dust finish with white-washed cane and optic white linen upholstery. #HomeDecor #FurnitureDesign #InteriorStyling #TextileDesign #ArtisanCraftsmanship #SustainableDesign #ModernPrimitiveDesign #ArtDeco

The interior design firm Pierce & Ward, founded by Louisa Pierce and Emily Ward, has gained recognition for their distinct aesthetic, which they've applied to the homes of several celebrities, including Dakota Johnson, Emma Roberts, Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Hudson, and Tobey Maguire. Their design philosophy, detailed in their book "A Tale of Interiors," focuses on creating lived-in, Old Hollywood-inspired spaces that tell a story. This approach often involves embracing unexpected design choices that contribute to the overall depth and character of a room. One of Pierce & Ward's signature techniques is the use of "ugly" hues. They advocate for incorporating shades of beige and brown, which they refer to as filler hues like pea green, puke-y mustard, and baby vomit, to prevent rooms from appearing overly perfect or sterile. These muted, earthy tones are strategically balanced with more classic colors such as blush pinks and butter yellows to create a dynamic and inviting atmosphere. The designers suggest that these unconventional colors add a sense of history and warmth, contributing to a cozy and slightly magical feel. Another key aspect of their design strategy involves utilizing inexpensive materials in creative and unconventional ways. For instance, they frequently use classic subway tile, a budget-friendly option, but elevate its appearance by experimenting with grout colors or covering entire kitchens with it. They also explore different tile formats; in one project, they used an affordable black and white hex tile to create a floral pattern that extended from the floor to the ceiling, even covering the range hood. When budget permits, they favor clay tile for its organic texture and light-reflecting properties, further enhancing the unique character of a space. Pierce & Ward also prioritize working with existing architectural elements and incorporating vintage finds. In Dakota Johnson's mid-century California home, they chose to restore and repaint the original 1940s metal cabinetry rather than replacing it, using Benjamin Moore’s Alligator Alley. This decision was driven by their appreciation for the home's history and the original architect's vision. When installing new cabinets, they intentionally seek out imperfections, preferring a simple Shaker panel style that isn't excessively flawless. They also place significant emphasis on vintage hardware, often sourcing antiqued brass handles from platforms like Etsy, believing that these elements make new spaces feel older and more authentic. The designers draw inspiration from the existing environment, both indoors and out. For Dakota Johnson's main bathroom, they extended the concrete flooring scheme from the downstairs to the upper level, covering the entire space with concrete and softening its harshness with earthy burl-wood mirrors and peachy roman shades. They also consider the surrounding landscape, integrating natural elements and colors that complement the outdoor setting into their interior palettes. This holistic approach ensures that the design feels cohesive and deeply connected to its surroundings. Finally, Pierce & Ward are proponents of using wallpaper extensively, often covering entire rooms, including ceilings, rather than limiting it to a single feature wall. They prefer sourcing vintage wallpaper to avoid trendy patterns and steer clear of metallic finishes. To achieve a custom and integrated look, they recommend matching the wallpaper to the moldings and trims, believing this creates a more cohesive and narrative-driven space. These techniques collectively contribute to the firm's signature style, characterized by depth, authenticity, and a sense of timeless elegance. #InteriorDesign #CelebrityHomes #PaintColors #TileDesign #RenovationTips #VintageDecor #WallpaperTrends #HomeDecor #DesignPhilosophy

The author, a writer for Realtor.com®, chronicles her personal home renovation journey, detailing how she applied design advice gleaned from popular reality TV home improvement experts like Chip and Joanna Gaines, Christina Haack, Jonathan and Drew Scott, and others. The renovation of her 1927 English Tudor-style home in San Francisco, purchased in 2020, took place throughout most of 2021, transforming a property that had not been updated in decades. The overall footprint of the two-story, four-bedroom, two-bathroom, 2,230-square-foot house was maintained, but the floor plan was adjusted, and every surface was touched. One of the core principles applied was to design for real life rather than solely for resale value, a concept championed by "Home Town" star Erin Napier. Since the author and her husband intend to grow old in the house with their two young children, decisions were made to suit their family's current and future needs. This included converting a formal extra bedroom into a flexible space that can function as a home office, as recommended by Brian and Mika Kleinschmidt of "100 Day Dream Home." The renovation also embraced open spaces, removing a wall between the kitchen and dining room and widening openings to the foyer and living room, allowing children to be visible and connected while parents work, cook, and clean, aligning with Shea McGee's insights from "Dream Home Makeover." Russell Holmes of "Renovation Impossible" reinforced the idea that value extends beyond monetary appraisal to include enjoyment. The kitchen, a key area for return on investment, received significant attention, particularly the island. Christina Haack of "Christina on the Coast" inspired the decision to install a large, oversized kitchen island. The author opted for a 7-foot by 5.5-foot slab of Calacatta gold marble with bold veining, which, despite its cost, became a central feature for family dinners and gatherings. The selection of materials prioritized timelessness over fleeting trends, a recommendation from Dave and Jenny Marrs of "Fixer to Fabulous: Italiano." The use of honed marble for countertops and backsplash, with continuous gray veins and a matte finish, paired with brushed-brass fixtures, aimed for classic durability, ensuring the white-on-white kitchen would remain stylish and functional for years. Preserving original architectural details was another important aspect of the renovation. Despite the extensive overhaul, elements like antique doors, knobs, a cast-iron bathtub, multi-paned windows, and sections of the hardwood floor were retained. Where original features were missing or unusable, efforts were made to re-create the look, such as with crown molding and tall baseboards. Joanna Gaines highlighted the cost-saving benefit of salvaging original items, while Clint Harp emphasized that blending old and new elements creates a desirable design balance, allowing appreciation for timeless pieces. Strategic splurging was advised by Tamara Day of "Bargain Mansions" and Michel Smith Boyd of "Luxe for Less," who suggested investing in frequently used items like sofas. The author and her husband prioritized a comfortable sectional from Room & Board, featuring a durable, custom green upholstery. Personal preferences guided interior decor choices, adhering to Jonathan Adler's rule: "Forget the rules. If you love it, it will work." This led to an olive-green couch matching her husband's vintage truck and pink accents inspired by "Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge" judge Tiffany Brooks. The downstairs powder room was a space for bold experimentation, featuring a palm print wallpaper reminiscent of the Beverly Hills Hotel, a tip supported by Alison Victoria of "Windy City Rehab." Careful consideration was given to paint colors, drawing inspiration from Keith Bynum of "Bargain Block" for exterior curb appeal and Tamara Day for interior lighting nuances. The home's exterior features a cream base with dark chocolate trim, while the interior is painted in Cool December by Dunn-Edwards Paints, providing a neutral backdrop for colorful decor. Finally, decluttering practices, inspired by Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent of "The Nate and Jeremiah Home Project" and Jean Stoffer of "The Established Home," were implemented, encouraging the retention of only cherished items and minimizing horizontal surface clutter, with a realistic acknowledgment of managing everyday mess, as even Marie Kondo admits. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #RealityTV #HomeImprovement #KitchenDesign #TimelessDecor #DeclutteringTips

This blog post outlines current spring home decor trends as advised by an interior designer mother. The trends encompass various items suitable for different areas of a home, from children's rooms to outdoor spaces and dining areas. The first recommendation is for wicker animal-shaped baskets, specifically an elephant basket from West Elm, which serves as both decor and storage for toys. A more luxurious elephant side table from Serena and Lily is also suggested as a high-end alternative. Another practical yet stylish trend highlighted is the use of thin, indoor doormats that do not obstruct door swings. The Porte & Hall "Insider" doormat is presented as an example, praised for its slip- and water-resistant properties and availability in multiple patterns, effectively catching dust and dirt at an entryway. The article then moves to decorative accents, suggesting vintage silver pieces, specifically rose vases. These unique items, often found on Etsy, are noted for their ability to add a classic touch to any room and can be used for small floral arrangements. Following this, vintage typewriters are introduced as a display piece trend, not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their functionality, adding a nostalgic flair inspired by pop culture. Outdoor living is addressed with a recommendation for square-backed Adirondack chairs. These chairs are favored for their comfort, durability, and weather-resistant qualities, making them suitable for beaches, sports games, or backyard lounging. A West Elm version is noted as a premium option. For indoor entertainment, a multi-game Carrom board is suggested as a decorative item that doubles as a fun activity for children and guests, offering versatility for various games like checkers and pool. Small decorative items also feature prominently, including hand-carved egg stones, available in jade and beige, which are believed to bring positive energy to a home and can be used as paperweights or bowl fillers. Vintage-inspired watering cans made from weather-resistant steel are another trend, blending functionality with an antique look, with an Anthropologie option from England mentioned for those seeking a splurge. Bedroom decor is covered with a focus on rattan headboards, specifically a dark walnut wood option from Walmart. These headboards offer texture and an airy feel, providing a vintage aesthetic at an accessible price point. For living areas, washable rugs with vintage-inspired designs, such as the Cozey Olivia Periwinkle Grey rug, are recommended for their durability and ease of cleaning, especially for households prone to spills. Dining and gifting ideas include hand-painted taper candles adorned with floral designs, which can serve as centerpieces or thoughtful gifts, featuring non-toxic paint for safe burning. Seagrass placemats with wavy rims are suggested for natural tablescapes, ideal for outdoor gatherings. Lastly, personalized cutting boards, which can be engraved with handwritten recipes, are highlighted as a sentimental and practical gift idea that can be displayed year-round. An example from Etsy by WoodHaveSaid is mentioned. #HomeDecor #SpringHomeDecor #InteriorDesign #DecorTrends #WickerAnimals #AdirondackChairs #VintageDecor #WashableRugs #RattanHeadboards

The research team at Zillow has identified key interior finishes and materials that can significantly increase a home's value, analyzing over 350 keywords across 2 million listings. The findings indicate a shift towards an "organic modernism" aesthetic, moving away from the modern farmhouse style, with buyers actively seeking and competing for homes featuring raw but refined finishes. These preferred features can lead to a sale premium of up to 3.5 percent, translating to an average of an additional $12,500 on a typical U.S. home. Among the top features identified, soapstone counters stand out, outperforming quartz by contributing to a 3.5 percent sale premium compared to quartz's 2.6 percent. Soapstone's natural character adds an old-world charm that resonates with buyers. An example cited is designer Sary Em's Philadelphia kitchen, where a soapstone-topped island was integrated into a late 1800s house, providing accessible storage and harmonizing with the home's historical context. Wet rooms, defined as fully waterproofed bathrooms, are another feature that enhances home value, potentially boosting it by 3.3 percent. This trend encourages the elimination of shower doors in favor of extensive use of materials like tile, Tadelakt, or marble slabs, creating a seamless and luxurious bathroom experience. White oak floors are also a significant value-add, contributing to a 3.2 percent increase in sale price. This suggests that the flooring choice is a crucial detail for potential buyers. Beyond white oak, other desirable flooring options include herringbone patterns and cork, indicating a preference for unique and natural materials underfoot. Finally, Venetian plaster walls offer a sophisticated way to add softness and texture to a space without relying on excessive decor. This decorative finish can increase a home's value by 3 percent. An illustration of its effectiveness is seen in influencer Remi Ishizuka's Texas living quarters, where designers utilized Venetian plaster around a fireplace hood and window bench. This application created a streamlined look and effectively neutralized stark architectural elements like cold gray stone pillars, demonstrating its ability to transform and unify a room's aesthetic. #HomeValue #RealEstate #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovations #ZillowResearch #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #FlooringTrends #WallFinishes

Zooey Deschanel's living room, designed with her husband Johnathan Scott, exemplifies a characterful interior style by artfully blending vintage and modern pieces. This design approach, moving away from minimalism, is recognized by experts as a significant interior design trend for 2025. The centerpiece of their living room is a green velvet sofa, whose modern moss color complements the room's dark wood accents. Behind the sofa, a wooden sideboard displays a vintage phonograph and an orchid in a white pot, adding to the room's eclectic charm. An antique-framed oil painting on the wall further enhances the old-world aesthetic. Megan Slack, Head of Celebrity Style, highlights that this style reflects a growing interest in personalized spaces. Deschanel's ability to integrate vintage elements, such as her interest in music, with modern aesthetics elevates the overall design, creating a unique and personal ambiance. The strategic combination of a trending color in the sofa with classic design elements in the artwork ensures the space feels both historic and contemporary, preventing it from appearing dated or museum-like. The potted orchid, despite its small size, contributes significantly to the room's energy. The article provides recommendations for recreating Deschanel's living room style. A plush green velvet loveseat, similar to hers, is suggested as an elegant and historical addition, especially when paired with dark wood and vintage pieces. An antique Thomas Edison phonograph is presented as a genuine historical item that can instantly infuse a living room with a storied character and style. For those seeking a similar aesthetic at a lower cost, an embossed wood vintage-style picture frame is recommended for its antique appearance and high-quality construction. The effectiveness of Deschanel and Scott's design lies in its seamless integration of old and new. The antique oil painting, set against a modern backdrop, avoids an old-fashioned feel, while the modern sofa is grounded by classic design elements. This interplay makes each piece of furniture more interesting and cohesive within the overall design. The article emphasizes that this approach allows individuals to express a strong personal point of view in their home decor, integrating a collection of antiques with modern items to create a unique and distinctive space. #ZooeyDeschanel #LivingRoomDesign #VintageDecor #ModernTwist #InteriorDesignTrends #CelebrityHomes #EclecticStyle #HomeDecor #AntiqueFurniture

This article features an interview with Zoe Feldman, a Washington D.C.-based interior designer known for creating warm, characterful, and personal homes. Feldman, who trained at Parsons School of Design, emphasizes the importance of understanding a building's architecture as the foundation for her design approach. She believes that the 'bones of a building' set the tone for the interior, which she then enhances with bold colors, rich textures, and carefully selected art. The discussion begins with Feldman's initial assessment of a space, focusing on its inherent architectural qualities and whether it requires added warmth or soul. She describes her personal design philosophy as naturally warm, casual, and approachable, qualities she strives to infuse into every project. When working with new builds that often lack character despite soaring ceilings, Feldman's strategy involves creating coziness by framing areas to give them distinction and purpose. This might include adding moldings or slightly lowering ceilings to make open-concept spaces feel more intimate and functional, ensuring each area serves its intended role. Feldman views homes as a form of self-expression and guides clients by exploring their existing collections, such as vases, records, art books, or travel souvenirs. She believes that highlighting cherished analogue objects makes a home more conversational, inviting connection and dialogue among visitors. Being surrounded by such items, according to Feldman, creates a sense of wonder and warmth, making a living space feel like a rich tapestry of one's life experiences. Color plays a significant role in Feldman's designs, and she encourages clients to overcome their fear of using it. Inspired by artist Mark Rothko, who used bold shades to evoke emotion, Feldman suggests incorporating colors that resonate personally. For instance, blue for calm in a bedroom, pink for happiness in a sitting room, or green for connection to nature in a kitchen. For more cautious clients, she introduces color through upholstery or artwork, or by dedicating bold hues to specific, briefly experienced spaces like dens, dining rooms, or powder rooms, where a strong statement won't overwhelm the entire home. Texture is another subtle yet powerful element in Feldman’s work. She shares her current favorites, including mohair rugs for their softness and comfort, and cashmere for its luxurious feel, particularly in a buttery camel tone. She acknowledges that some choices, like cashmere sofas, are not practical for every household, especially those with children and pets. However, she advocates for using materials that suit the client's lifestyle. Lightweight wool drapes are also favored for their ability to catch light beautifully and adapt to different seasons. The interview also delves into art sourcing, where Feldman, with her background in art dealing, highlights its transformative power. She advises against matching art to a space but rather considering how it responds to the room, and she often plays with scale, using oversized pieces for dramatic effect or small, delicate ones to invite closer inspection. She encourages people to embrace art without intimidation, stressing that cost is not a barrier and that the key is to acquire pieces that evoke love and personal connection. #InteriorDesign #ZoeFeldman #HomeDecor #ColorPalette #TexturalDesign #ArtInDesign #SoulfulInteriors #DesignPhilosophy

In a 1990s-built home in Surrey, England, designer Holly Vaughan of Vaughan Design & Development was tasked with transforming a property that, despite its generous size and attractive bay windows, presented challenges due to its overly expansive and often redundant rooms. The owner, having recently acquired the house, sought assistance in effectively zoning these long spaces to enhance their functionality and infuse character. The existing interior featured magnolia walls, beige carpets, and pine woodwork, providing a blank canvas for a complete overhaul. Vaughan’s approach involved segmenting the large areas into distinct zones, starting with the creation of an inviting everyday dining space, complete with comfortable bench seating. This was complemented by a more formal dining area designed for entertaining guests. Recognizing the remaining square footage, the designer innovatively carved out additional spaces, including a dedicated game room and a cozy banquette book nook. This strategy ensured that every part of the home served a specific purpose, addressing the initial issue of underutilized space. The material selection was carefully considered to accommodate the owner's lifestyle, particularly her four-legged companions. Vaughan opted for durable and easy-to-maintain flooring solutions such as parquet, stone tile, and washable rugs from Weaver Green, balancing practicality with aesthetic appeal. While vintage runners were initially considered for their ability to hide stains, the convenience and cost-effectiveness of washable alternatives proved to be a significant advantage, demonstrating a pragmatic design choice that did not compromise the overall look. The color scheme embraced the homeowner's preferences for pinks, greens, and yellows, moving away from the bland existing decor. Instead of using overly bold hues, Vaughan implemented pockets of color that harmonized with more muted tones. For instance, in the living room, varying shades of green were used for the millwork and library wall, creating depth and sophistication. In the dining area, Farrow & Ball's 'Hay' paint color was chosen for its inherent warmth, further enhanced by the inclusion of rattan chairs and pendant lights to complete the aesthetic. The design also incorporated elements like a striking black and white checkered floor in one of the main communal areas, providing a classic yet bold statement. A highlight of the renovation is the powder room, where Vaughan indulged in a more playful design. Here, a combination of a tulip print wallpaper by Ottoline and pink zellige tiles from Mosaic Factory created a dynamic contrast between soft florals and textured squares. Fabric light shades by Alice Palmer were added to evoke a charming cottagecore ambiance. The formerly underutilized bay window was transformed into a snug book nook with a built-in window seat and shelving, offering a comfortable reading spot and enhancing natural light through relaxed Roman blinds. The design culminated in a game area at the end of a long sitting room, furnished with a handsome marble table and frill-edged curtains, providing an alternative space for post-dinner relaxation and activities like cocktails or board games. These thoughtful design decisions collectively imbued the home with character and functionality, effectively addressing the challenges posed by its spacious yet undefined layout. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SpacePlanning #ColorSchemes #FunctionalDesign #CustomInteriors #DesignInspiration #RoomZoning

This article highlights a curated selection of design blogs that serve as continuous sources of inspiration for the editors at Domino. The featured blogs cover a broad spectrum of design sensibilities, from vibrant, color-centric aesthetics to minimalist, sustainable living, and extensive home renovations. The article acknowledges the diverse talents within the design blogging community and aims to guide readers toward discovering new and established voices that align with their personal style. Among the celebrated blogs is "Bright Bazaar" by Will Taylor, known for its dazzling affinity for color and focus on accessible, modern design through a vibrant lens. John and Sherry Petersik's "Young House Love" is recognized for their extensive experience in home renovations and makeovers, offering readers insights into their ongoing projects and family life. Joy Cho's "Oh Joy" is presented as a multifaceted empire that has evolved from a graphic design studio into successful books and product collections, while still providing valuable design tips and lifestyle guides through her blog. The article introduces "Historias de Casa," a Brazilian blog by Bruna and Paula, which offers a glimpse into charming homes, shops, and studios in Sao Paulo and beyond. Despite being in Portuguese, the blog's colorful, plant-filled imagery and easy DIY suggestions provide ample inspiration, encouraging readers to channel bohemian vibes in their own spaces. Erin Boyle's "Reading My Tea Leaves" is lauded for its expertise in small space living, providing practical tips for styling tiny apartments alongside a commitment to sustainability and conscious consumption. Carmeon Hamilton's "Cohesive Randomness" showcases the Memphis-based interior designer's home renovations and personal style, reflecting her successful design business. Stephanie Watkins' "Casa Watkins Living" captivates with its "global eclectic" aesthetic, featuring colorful, worldly finds and practical DIY projects. Emily Blanchard's "Emily Everyday" empowers women through their homes by sharing her personal design journey, offering tips on sourcing vintage rugs and engaging in DIY endeavors. Amber Lewis's "Amber Interiors" is recognized for its masterful grasp of California-cool style and cheerful personality, consistently drawing readers back for fresh inspiration. Katrina Blair, formerly of Chic Little House, now offers broader lifestyle content on her rebranded blog, combining small space styling tips with articles on entertaining and travel. Chris and Julia Marcum's "Chris Loves Julia" is a renovation-focused blog that chronicles their home improvement projects and provides a behind-the-scenes look at extensive remodeling through their podcast. Heather Bullard's eponymous site is a destination for dreamy inspiration, reflecting her unique perspective as a magazine editor and freelance prop stylist, alongside her culinary interests and current "Grove House" project. Athena Calderone's "EyeSwoon" showcases her roots in design, offering a wealth of style inspiration and interior projects. Ashley Rose's "Sugar and Cloth" stands out for its impressive catalog of DIY projects and creative hacks, ranging from abstract art to fabric wall walls, and even a dedicated section for macarons. Ursula Carmona's "Homemade by Carmona" provides a down-to-earth approach to decorating, focusing on organization tips and achieving expensive tastes on a budget. Shavonda Gardner's "SG Style" highlights her expertise in small space living and bohemian decor, sharing her signature style and home tours from like-minded design enthusiasts. Anita Yokota's blog, originating from Instagram, offers a relatable voice and mastery of boho-California style, alongside styling services. Sarah Gibson's "Room for Tuesday" features a diverse range of content, from lifestyle tips to firsthand design experiences from her home renovations. Finally, Niki Brantmark's "My Scandinavian Home" serves as a comprehensive catalog of Swedish style, complete with styling guides and an intimate look into her own home, appealing to fans of minimalist Scandi-inspired decor. Medina Grillo's "Grillo Designs" provides straightforward tutorials and crafty hacks for smart DIYs and upcycling projects, making design accessible to novice decorators. #DesignBlogs #HomeDecorInspiration #InteriorDesign #DIYProjects #HomeRenovation #SmallSpaceLiving #SustainableDesign #ColorTrends #BohoStyle

This article highlights common interior design mistakes, referred to as "pet peeves" by professional decorators, offering insights into subtle details that significantly impact a space's aesthetic and functionality. Drawing expertise from several renowned interior designers, the article identifies ten specific issues that can detract from a well-designed home. The first common error discussed is the use of curtains that are too short or curtain rods installed too low. Designers emphasize that curtains should hang high, close to the ceiling, and gently touch the floor to create a sense of height and elegance. Proper curtain placement contributes to a polished and integrated look, preventing windows from appearing disproportionately small. Another significant pet peeve is the improper mixing of metal finishes, specifically the combination of polished chrome and polished nickel. While mixing metals can be an intentional design choice, experts caution against certain pairings that clash rather than complement. The article also addresses ill-fitting rugs, stressing that a rug's size is crucial for grounding a space. A rug that is too small can make a room feel disjointed and smaller than its actual dimensions. Conversely, a larger rug typically enhances the overall cohesion and scale of a living area. The placement of art is another point of contention; art hung too high can disrupt the visual balance of a room, making it feel out of proportion. Designers recommend hanging art at eye level to ensure it harmonizes with the surrounding decor and furniture. The article further advises against furnishing an entire space from a single store, advocating instead for a curated approach that involves collecting pieces over time from various sources. This method allows for a more personalized and eclectic look, avoiding a showroom appearance. Inconsistent light bulbs within a single room are also identified as a design flaw, as they can create an unharmonious lighting scheme. The recommendation is to choose a consistent color tone and wattage for all bulbs in a room to maintain a cohesive ambiance. Excessive recessed lighting, often likened to an "airport runway," is criticized for creating harsh, unflattering illumination. Designers suggest incorporating multiple light sources, such as flush-mount fixtures and lamps, to achieve softer, more layered lighting. Plantation shutters are surprisingly listed as a pet peeve by one designer, who argues that they offer less warmth and ambiance compared to drapes or shades, despite their cost. The article also points out the common mistake of using white trim on colorful walls, which can undermine the intended sophisticated statement of a bold color choice. Instead, designers propose tone-on-tone or complementary hues for trim to enhance the wall color. Lastly, prominent microwaves are highlighted as a functional eyesore. Designers prefer to conceal these appliances, either by integrating them into cabinetry on an island or within a pantry, to maintain a clean and streamlined kitchen aesthetic. These expert opinions collectively underscore the importance of attention to detail in creating a truly well-designed interior. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTips #ExpertAdvice #HomeStyling #DecoratingMistakes #RoomDesign #Aesthetic

Home design is a dynamic field where personal preferences frequently clash with prevailing trends. While individual expression is paramount in decorating a home, the aesthetic choices of one person might not resonate with another, leading to a wide array of opinions on popular decor. This article compiles a list of 22 contemporary home design trends that many individuals find objectionable or impractical, based on public feedback. Among the most criticized trends are doorless bathrooms and showers, which raise concerns about privacy, hygiene, and water spillage. The absence of a door in a bathroom, especially when directly connected to a bedroom, can lead to issues such as odor and humidity affecting the sleeping area, and a general lack of personal space for occupants. Similarly, doorless showers often result in water splashing throughout the bathroom, requiring constant cleanup. Another point of contention is the use of faux materials, particularly fake wood beams. While authentic exposed beams are appreciated for their historical and aesthetic value, artificial versions made from foam or other synthetic materials are often perceived as cheap and tacky, undermining the intended rustic or modern farmhouse look. The trend of built-in appliances also draws criticism due to the difficulties it presents for maintenance and replacement. When appliances are integrated seamlessly into cabinetry, repairing or substituting them can become a costly and complicated endeavor, often requiring significant structural modifications to the kitchen. Color choices, specifically the widespread use of "agreeable gray," are frequently disliked. Many find this neutral shade to be uninspiring or even depressing, comparing it to "wet cardboard" and noting its difficulty to cover when repainting. This highlights a broader aversion to overly bland or generic color schemes that lack warmth and character. Urban planning and house construction trends also receive negative feedback. The practice of building excessively large houses on small lots is seen as detrimental, leading to minimal yard space, a lack of privacy due to close proximity to neighbors, and limited outdoor usability. Similarly, the design of homes where garages are the dominant visual feature at the front is criticized for its unappealing aesthetic, diminishing the overall curb appeal of residential areas. Interior layout choices are also under scrutiny. Large master bedrooms and bathrooms that disproportionately reduce the number of other rooms are deemed impractical for most households. Additionally, layouts that require walking through a bathroom to access a closet are considered inconvenient and lacking in privacy, especially when multiple people share the space. Two-tone kitchen cabinetry, particularly mismatched islands or upper and lower cabinets, is often viewed as a fleeting trend that will quickly become dated and necessitate expensive renovations. Functional aspects of design, such as vessel sinks (often referred to as "above-ground sinks") and freestanding bathtubs, are criticized for their impracticality. Vessel sinks can be awkward to use and clean, while freestanding bathtubs create hard-to-reach spaces that accumulate dirt and dust. The absence of mudrooms or functional entryways in new builds is also a concern, particularly in regions with varying climates where designated spaces for shedding outdoor gear are essential to keep main living areas clean. Kitchen island sinks are disliked for placing dirty dishes on prominent display, and pot fillers are questioned regarding water freshness and overall necessity. Lastly, the absence of stair banisters is deemed a significant safety hazard, and the widespread use of DIY paneling to mimic period properties is seen as an artificial and often poorly executed design choice. The popularity of barn doors is also criticized for their impracticality, lack of soundproofing, and tendency to appear tacky. Finally, the placement of bathrooms directly adjacent to kitchens or dining areas in new constructions raises hygiene and aesthetic concerns for many. #HomeDesign #InteriorDecorating #HomeTrends #ArchitecturalDesign #Renovation #ResidentialLiving #PersonalAesthetics #HouseholdEfficiency

Jessica Duce, a Houston-based designer from JDuce Design, provides eight valuable tips for home remodeling, drawing from her extensive experience, including a significant renovation of her 5,000-square-foot home in Champion Forest. After an initial career in banking, Duce transitioned to interior design, establishing her own firm and later co-founding Vacation Rental Designers, a collective for designers specializing in luxury vacation rental homes. Her personal home renovation project, sparked by her husband's discovery of the property in 2020 and timed for their daughter's 2023 wedding, serves as a practical case study for her recommendations. Duce emphasizes the importance of a clear vision, starting with a comprehensive plan and budget. She advises coordinating elements across rooms, such as architectural details or paint colors, to ensure a cohesive design throughout the house, even when tackling renovations one room at a time. Her own home features Sherwin-Williams "Jasper Stone" in the office and various wallpapers, with "West Highland White" used extensively for interiors to maintain a bright and open feel. Duce highlights the transformative power of paint, noting its affordability and potential for DIY application. For instance, repainting her living room from yellow to white significantly brightened the space. Another key tip is to actively seek bargains. Duce suggests exploring Habitat for Humanity ReStore for new materials like tile and lighting, and attending showroom sample sales for significant discounts on furniture, as she did when purchasing a green sectional sofa at Ballard Design for half price. She also advocates for shopping at resale stores such as StillGoode, The Guild Shop, Bluebird Circle, and Houston Junior Forum for unique finds, and customizes affordable items like seagrass shades from Lowe's with designer trims. For installation services like blinds, she recommends allowing stores to pre-measure and install to ensure accuracy, with the measurement cost typically deducted from the overall installation fee. Duce promotes the reuse of scraps, illustrating this with a bench made from construction wood scraps in her mudroom. She suggests saving leftover tile or stone slab pieces for smaller spaces like laundry rooms or powder rooms and reusing existing doors to cut costs. Upcycling big-box items is another smart strategy; for her pool house bathroom, she transformed an inexpensive Lowe's sink cabinet with a slab remnant and upgraded hardware. Similarly, a utility sink for the laundry room was elevated with a fabric skirt matching wallpaper used in adjacent rooms, creating a cohesive and high-end look. For existing features, Duce advises keeping valuable elements like crown molding or built-in bookcases, which can be updated with paint or added lighting. However, she also champions the courage to gut when necessary, as demonstrated by her kitchen renovation. Her kitchen, initially an awkward square layout, was completely overhauled to create a main kitchen and a "dirty kitchen" for prep and cleanup, featuring contrasting cabinet colors (black and white in the main kitchen, Benjamin Moore's "Pacific Teal" in the dirty kitchen). This renovation included high-end Signature Kitchen Suite appliances and a bar with refrigerated drawers and a Zip Water fixture for various water types. Finally, Duce encourages splurging on certain items that significantly impact a space's aesthetic and function, specifically mentioning countertop slabs and quality lighting. While some tiles in her home were sourced from affordable retailers like Floor and Decor, others came from more expensive stores like Tile Shop, demonstrating a balanced approach to budgeting for different elements. #HomeRemodeling #InteriorDesign #DesignTips #KitchenRenovation #BargainShopping #DIYHomeDecor #JessicaDuce #HoustonDesign #Upcycling