Kate Chastain Shows Off Her DIY Home Update and the Amusing Detail on Her Front Gate

This article highlights the interior design philosophy and personal home of Kristin Paton, a designer who seamlessly blends European glamour with a fashion-forward sensibility in her 1892 Colonial Revival home in Cambridge. Paton, whose passion for design began with fashion magazines like Vogue, trained in New York, London, and Florence, ultimately choosing interiors as her field. She applies a layered approach to design, starting with the home's fundamental structure and adding period-appropriate elements such as coffered ceilings and molding in her family room addition. Paton and her husband became stewards of the historical house, originally built by Cabot, Everett & Mead, in 2009. Despite its age and the need for significant updates—including a 1940s kitchen and a large terrarium—they committed to honoring the home's original character while modernizing it for a young family. Her design choices reflect her experiences living in London and studying architecture in Florence, infusing the space with elegant continental style that is also welcoming and durable for her three children and two sheepdogs. She emphasizes a non-precious approach, allowing pets on furniture and integrating practical elements without sacrificing sophistication. The home’s aesthetic features a blend of Old World grace and contemporary touches. The entryway, enhanced with a new balustrade, leads to a paneled entrance hall showcasing an antique Macassar-ebony sideboard and Italian Empoli glass. The dining room is notable for its Fromental handpainted-silk wallpaper, which Paton discovered in Hong Kong, and a unique lighting arrangement of green bell jars instead of a traditional chandelier. This space, furnished with antique horsehair chairs and a Dessin Fournir rosewood table, evokes a surrealist salon atmosphere. Casual gatherings take place in the kitchen, which features a Calacatta marble countertop and Crate & Barrel barstools. Coffered ceilings connect the kitchen to a bistro-style dining nook inspired by Parisian weekends, furnished with chocolate-hued pleather banquettes, sleek mirrors, Biedermeier chairs, and antique lamps from a French flea market. Paton embraces mixing elements, combining fine pieces with more practical ones. French doors open to a spacious rear porch and backyard with a trellised terrace, complete with Philippe Starck chairs and an outdoor fireplace. The finished basement adds functionality with a wine room, a kid-friendly TV room, a gym, and a guest bedroom. Paton’s design showcases a strong understanding of fashion and function, creating a home that is both elegantly styled for guests and intelligently outfitted for her family. She describes her home's style using a fashion metaphor: “sleek enough for the runway, yet ready to wear,” indicating a design that is both sophisticated and livable. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CambridgeHome #KristinPaton #EuropeanGlamour #ColonialRevival #FashionForwardDesign #HistoricHomeRenovation

A homeowner successfully transformed her bedroom with a DIY wooden feature wall inspired by Instagram, achieving a stylish Scandi look for significantly less than a professional quote. Calsey Banks from Birmingham, impressed by similar designs online, decided to undertake the project herself after receiving a builder's quote of £300. Her initiative saved her £150, as she completed the entire project for just £150. Calsey sourced MDF strips from B&Q; and used no-nail glue to attach them to the wall. She emphasized that the project didn't require specialized tools, noting she only used an electrical saw to cut the MDF to size. A key to achieving a uniform look was using a divider to ensure consistent spacing between each strip. Once all the wooden strips were in place, she painted the entire wall, including the gaps, using Regency Cream by Craig and Rose Paint. Adding a personal touch, Calsey utilized the leftover MDF pieces to create a decorative picture ledge on the wall, which she positioned at different angles to enhance the overall aesthetic. This creative use of materials not only added character but also eliminated waste. Her project demonstrates that bold DIY efforts can lead to stunning results and significant cost savings. The article further showcases other examples of wood panelling, suggesting that playing with the spacing between wooden strips can personalize the look. It highlights how this popular wall trend is versatile and can be effectively used in various rooms, including dining rooms and bedrooms, particularly behind the bed for a Scandi-inspired focal point. The success of Calsey's project encourages others to tackle similar home improvement tasks, proving that impressive design can be achieved on a budget with a DIY approach. #DIYHomeDecor #WoodPanelling #BedroomMakeover #ScandiDesign #BudgetDecor #HomeImprovement #CreativeDIY

Interior designer Kate Marker initially planned to flip a 3,000-square-foot, four-bedroom, five-bathroom Cape Cod-style home in Barrington Village, a Chicago suburb, after downsizing from her 10,000-square-foot countryside estate. However, during the renovation process, she realized she was designing the home as if it were her own, incorporating finishes, materials, and accents she would personally love. The pivotal moment came when her contractor vaulted the kitchen ceilings, giving her a new perspective and solidifying her decision to make it her family's home. Marker embarked on ambitious renovations, including converting the existing garage into a primary suite and adding an upstairs lounge for her two teenage daughters, ultimately creating a beautiful, charming, and welcoming home for her family of four. The entryway of the home features checkered floors, wallpaper, and mustard walls, blending historical charm with a funky aesthetic. Custom millwork adorned with Little Greene Paint wallpaper in the insets leads into the living room, which showcases a mix of found treasures and pieces from Marker's own line, Kate Marker Home. The light and airy family room highlights a limestone mantel with an elegant fluted pattern. The formal sitting room leverages its low ceilings to create a cozy atmosphere. The kitchen, originally isolated, was transformed by removing a wall to seamlessly connect the dining and cooking areas. It now serves as a central walkthrough space. Marker designed the kitchen with a modern French bistro concept, incorporating lower white-oak cabinetry and upper cabinets painted in Oxford Stone by Farrow & Ball, accented with Armac Martin hardware. Honed Calacutta Fior marble and Tamazula Granite provide a subtle tone-on-tone aesthetic. Instead of a large island, a peninsula was chosen to maximize space, and vaulted ceilings, illuminated by Hudson Valley Lighting pendants, create an airy pathway into the family room. A standout Ilve range with Meoded plaster fabrication and a creative coffee bar featuring Kate Marker Home tile and a round window complete the kitchen. The dining area features a long Haven Dining Table, serving as a focal point and a wood accent piece, facilitating family gatherings. The primary suite, converted from the garage, boasts French doors that flood the room with natural light and extend to a private patio. The primary bathroom includes an arched doorway, a standalone tub by Allure, and a white-oak vanity, with a vintage rug adding texture to The Fine Line tile. For her teenage daughters, Marker created a reading nook with vertical paneled walls to enhance height in the low-ceilinged space, furnished with poufs, playful light fixtures, and decor from Kate Marker Home. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #CapeCodStyle #KateMarkerHome #KitchenDesign #LivingRoom #BedroomDesign #BathroomDesign #HomeDecor

Linda Dekkers, an interior stylist and cofounder of Fronteriors, a company specializing in custom fronts for IKEA cabinets, transformed her small three-bedroom coastal holiday home in Ouddorp, Netherlands, by strategically using statement walls. Instead of conventional paint, Dekkers opted for a unique approach: cane wallpaper. This choice allowed her to introduce texture and define distinct zones within the compact space. The wallpaper, which features patterns inspired by woven rattan, is incorporated into both the dining-living area and the master bedroom. The aesthetic effect is so convincing that it’s difficult to distinguish it from actual woven cane unless viewed closely. The Dutch brand NLXL is responsible for producing this wallpaper, utilizing ultra-high-resolution scans to create a trompe l’oeil effect that mimics the natural material. Dekkers emphasizes that integrating texture into a room is crucial for elevating a space from flat and uninspired to one that feels rich, full, and alive. Despite its cost, approximately $300 for 50 square feet, Dekkers views the cane wallpaper as an investment rather than mere wall decor. She likens its significance to a piece of furniture, highlighting its enduring design appeal. The use of caning in interior design has a long history, notably seen in Swiss architect Pierre Jeanneret’s Chandigarh chairs, which have maintained their relevance for over 70 years, indicating that cane-inspired designs are not a fleeting trend. In the dining room, Dekkers paired the cane print wallpaper with a pale pink vintage wardrobe, creating a modern contrast. For the master bedroom, she adopted a more minimalist style, forgoing a headboard to allow the accent wall to serve as the primary focal point. NLXL’s collection offers various cane wallpaper designs, including square webbing, a crisscross pattern, teardrops, diamonds, and plain strips. Dekkers specifically utilized the square webbing design in her dining room. Dekkers notes that this particular wallpaper is heavier than many other types, necessitating assistance during installation, which she received from her mother. However, she assures that the effort is well worth it, as the textured walls create a striking visual impact that ensures the space is noticed and appreciated, regardless of the season. The article showcases how a seemingly simple material choice can significantly enhance the depth and character of a home. #InteriorStyling #CaneWallpaper #TexturalDesign #SmallSpaceDesign #HomeRenovation #DutchDesign #AccentWalls #ModernInteriors

This article highlights the interior design of a 7,500-square-foot Chestnut Hill home, orchestrated by Cohasset-based interior designer Katie Frazier. The project focused on creating a comfortable, convenient, and aesthetically pleasing living space for a family of five who transitioned from city life to the suburbs during the COVID-19 pandemic. The homeowners, both holding demanding corporate careers, sought a highly personalized interior for their newly acquired house, which was already nearing completion by architect Marcus Gleysteen when they purchased it. Frazier's design approach centered on a transitional aesthetic, blending modern and traditional elements to achieve a "light and bright with interest" scheme. A key aspect of the design was the integration of "invisible" features that prioritize functionality and comfort. For instance, the kitchen's stove hood conceals a television screen that can be revealed for viewing from the island, eliminating the need for guests to crane their necks. The home office includes refrigerated drawers for beverages and snacks, and a dedicated closet was designed specifically for luggage storage. The husband's T-shirts each have their own designated drawer, illustrating the meticulous attention to organization and convenience throughout the home. Furthermore, electronic wiring is seamlessly hidden, contributing to the clean and uncluttered environment. Despite the prevailing pale and serene color palette in many areas, Frazier introduced vibrant statements of color and pattern to add character and visual interest. Examples include a custom-designed red wallcovering in the powder room located off the mudroom, saturated teal cabinetry in the butler’s pantry, and a soft, dark gray hue for the woodwork in the home office. The living room features elegant green-velvet sofas, providing a rich focal point. The design also incorporated spaces to display the family's expanding art collection, with a colorful abstract painting by Josh Jensen in the home office and an enigmatic painting by Brittney Ciccone above the living room mantel. The majority of the furniture in the house is new, carefully selected to complement the larger scale of the rooms compared to their previous city residence. Custom cabinetry, crafted by JD Millworks, was installed throughout the home to meet the family's specific needs and preferences. Importantly, the design process did not involve any structural modifications to the house; the existing architectural layout proved suitable for the family's requirements. Frazier's firm, established after her mentorship at Hudson Interior Designs, undertook this project in April 2020. A significant challenge during the project was navigating the uncertainties and safety protocols associated with working during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these obstacles, the project was completed successfully and on schedule, without any health incidents, resulting in a luxurious and comfortable suburban sanctuary for the family. The article was originally featured in Boston Home's Fall 2024 issue under the title “Easy Living.” #InteriorDesign #ChestnutHill #HiddenFeatures #LuxuryHome #TransitionalDesign #CustomCabinetry #FamilyHome #KatieFrazierInteriors #BostonHome

This article shares valuable shopping tips for HomeGoods, a popular home decor chain known for its deals. The author, a home design director, provides strategies to maximize savings and find unique items. One key recommendation is to shop early in the day, preferably on weekdays like Thursdays, when stores are well-stocked and organized. Mondays can also be good as shipments often arrive then, but may involve more restocking activity. Building a rapport with sales associates is highlighted as a beneficial strategy, especially when searching for specific items or brands, as they can provide alerts on new arrivals. Shoppers are advised to look for red price tags, which indicate clearance prices at HomeGoods and its sister stores (TJ Maxx, Homesense, and Sierra). While dedicated clearance sections exist, marked-down items are often found mixed throughout the store. The article emphasizes the importance of thoroughly searching shelves and displays, as many hidden gems and misplaced items can be found by sifting through layers of products like pillows and artwork. The author recounts an experience of finding a matching storage bin by searching diligently through a stack. Dedicated sections for bedding and towels are presented as prime locations for discovering high-quality items from well-known brands such as Stearns & Foster, Vera Wang, Ralph Lauren, and Calvin Klein at discounted prices. The organizational method of towels by color is noted as a particular advantage for decorators. The kitchen section is identified as another area with excellent deals, offering everything from holiday-themed dish towels to baking pans and branded items like Mikasa dishes and Le Creuset baking dishes. HomeGoods is also recommended as a go-to for wooden cutting boards, suitable for both meal prep and charcuterie presentations. The article encourages shoppers to remain open to discovering lesser-known brands, as quality is not solely dependent on brand recognition, and many high-quality products come from smaller companies. This approach is particularly useful for finding multiple items for special occasions or exploring new decor trends. Lastly, shoppers are encouraged to negotiate discounts on slightly defective items and to utilize the store's hold service for larger purchases, ensuring they don't miss out on desired pieces due to immediate transportation challenges. #HomeGoods #ShoppingTips #HomeDecor #DiscountShopping #InteriorDesign #ClearanceDeals #SmartShopping #RetailSecrets

Home renovation and design expert Christina Haack, known for her shows 'Christina on the Coast' and 'The Flip Off,' has identified a significant kitchen layout mistake that she believes can negatively impact a home's resale value and overall aesthetic: having the front door open directly into the kitchen. Haack emphasizes that the kitchen is often considered the heart of the home and the most crucial room for potential buyers, making its design and placement paramount. Haack's primary concern with a front-door-to-kitchen layout is the immediate impression it creates upon entering a home. She argues that this arrangement can make the space feel less inviting and even chaotic, especially if the kitchen is not perfectly tidy. Beyond the visual impact, she also points out practical drawbacks, such as strong cooking odors immediately greeting guests as they enter, which can set an undesirable tone for the entire house. She advises that kitchens should ideally have their own distinct space, separate from the immediate entry point, to provide a more organized and welcoming environment. In an episode of 'The Flip Off,' Haack demonstrated her design philosophy by removing constricting walls in a home and relocating the kitchen. This strategic move allowed her to expand the kitchen's footprint, creating a more spacious area for food preparation and dining. Her design goal was to achieve a 'classic design with a pop,' aiming for a kitchen that felt earthy, elegant, and inviting simultaneously. The final design featured white oak cabinets, a high-end stove, a large island, and a porcelain backsplash, illustrating her vision for a well-designed and strategically placed kitchen. Haack's perspective aligns with that of other design experts. Three professionals interviewed by 'Homes and Gardens' also highlighted the critical role of kitchen layout and design in influencing a home's value and the cooking experience. Designer Tom Howley, for instance, suggested viewing open-plan spaces as a cohesive whole with multiple zones, dedicating specific areas for cooking, dining, lounging, and even compact office spaces. This zoning approach is crucial for creating flexible and functional spaces that cater to various lifestyle needs. Haack further reinforces her design philosophy by noting that her own updated kitchen, featuring black oak cabinets and white marble countertops, is not positioned directly by the front door. This personal choice underscores her belief in the importance of kitchen placement for both functionality and aesthetic appeal, aiming to balance family-friendly utility with high-end design elements. Her insights offer valuable advice for homeowners considering kitchen remodels or looking to enhance their home's resale potential. #ChristinaHaack #KitchenDesign #HomeRenovation #ResaleValue #HGTV #InteriorDesign #TheFlipOff #ChristinaOnTheCoast #HouseBeautiful

Kate Hudson provided a glimpse into her Los Angeles home, specifically showcasing a stylish, vintage-inspired pink bathroom. During lockdown, the Hollywood actress has been sharing aspects of her family life and home decor. The bathroom features patterned pink wallpaper and a vintage white mirror, reflecting a consistent design choice seen throughout her residence. Her kitchen is adorned with an orange and blue geometric print wallpaper, while her bedroom boasts a contrasting floral wallpaper, indicating a fondness for vibrant and diverse wall coverings. Kate Hudson resides with her boyfriend Danny Fujikawa, their daughter Rani, and her two elder sons, Bingham Bellamy (with Muse frontman Matt Bellamy) and Ryder Robinson (with ex-husband Chris Robinson). She recently posted a photograph of all three children together on Instagram, commenting on the challenge of getting them to look at the camera simultaneously, a sentiment that resonated with many of her followers. The family recently celebrated Bingham's ninth birthday, which included a special breakfast with personalized pancakes and a small family gathering. Matt Bellamy and his wife Elle, along with their daughter Lovella, also joined the celebration, highlighting the amicable co-parenting relationship between Kate and Matt. Kate mentioned in a 2019 podcast, 'Divorce Sucks!', that both Chris and Matt, despite their busy touring schedules, are very present fathers. During the COVID-19 lockdown, Kate spoke with Ellen DeGeneres about her family's daily routine, acknowledging that homeschooling had been an "adjustment." She described a structured approach where her youngest son, Bingham, receives more direct assistance with his studies, while Ryder manages his lectures and Zoom sessions independently with periodic check-ins. Hudson expressed gratitude for her family's health amidst the challenges of managing work and homeschooling. The article positions Kate Hudson's home as a stylish and vibrant living space that accommodates her family life. #KateHudson #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #CelebrityHomes #LosAngeles #FamilyLife #VintageStyle #WallpaperTrends

The article highlights a specific corner in Martha Stewart's 'tiny apartment' which she frequently uses for evening outfit photos, attributing its appeal to its Italian-style design. Stewart explicitly stated her design brief for the apartment was to emulate a 'mother-in-law's apartment in the back of the palazzo.' This particular space, featuring a stone fireplace and a gold mirror, is described as a masterclass in elegant gold decorating, avoiding an overpowering aesthetic. Key elements contributing to the luxurious feel include terracotta and marble-style floor tiles, high ceilings, and ornate crown molding, all reinforcing the Italian theme. The centerpiece of this admired corner is the combination of a striking stone fireplace and an opulent gold mirror. The mirror, reminiscent of museum pieces, is presented as a crucial decorative element. The article then suggests similar gold mirrors for readers to recreate the look, including a 19th Century American Federal Giltwood Eagle Bullseye Convex Mirror, a Willa Arlo™ Interiors Manawa Round Wall Mirror, and a contemporary Anassa Circular Mirror. These suggestions cater to different stylistic preferences and price points, enabling a broader audience to integrate such a statement piece into their homes. Beyond the aesthetic contribution of the mirror, the article emphasizes the significance of the stone fireplace itself. Owen Pacey, a fireplace expert from Renaissance London, is quoted, explaining that fireplaces serve as anchors for a space, providing context, personality, detail, and a sense of establishment. He stresses the importance of careful consideration when choosing a fireplace. Pacey elaborates on natural stone as a 'character builder' for a home, noting that the inherent imperfections and inconsistencies in each stone piece contribute to a unique quality. He further illustrates this point by mentioning the distinct pathways of Carrara marble veins and the one-of-a-kind constellations formed by nebulous fossils in jet-black Kilkenny limestone. The article concludes by asserting that natural stone, when introduced into a home, offers an authentic and warm effect, enhancing the home's fundamental structure. While it shouldn't be relegated to a secondary role, the individuality of each stone element, such as jambs, mantels, or corbels, elevates the fireplace to a work of art. Martha Stewart's admired corner exemplifies this principle, showcasing a harmonious blend of luxurious materials and thoughtful design that evokes a classic Italian aesthetic. #MarthaStewart #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #FireplaceDesign #GoldMirror #ItalianStyle #CelebrityHome #LuxuryDecor #NaturalStone

Victoria McIntyre, a neurological nurse and mother of two from Perthshire, embarked on a DIY project to transform her kitchen, successfully creating a stylish brick-effect feature wall for just £12. Having recently returned to work from maternity leave, Victoria found redecorating during lockdown to be a welcome escape from daily stresses, especially with her husband working from home. This kitchen renovation followed her previous success in transforming three bathrooms. The initial idea for the feature wall came from a desire to move beyond the popular geometric wall designs while still utilizing frog tape, a method she and her husband found appealing. Victoria and her husband specifically wanted a brick-effect wall where the 'bricks' matched the size of the existing brick tile splashback in their kitchen. This decision, however, added a layer of complexity to the project. The process began with applying several coats of white paint as a base over the original deep grey wall. A crucial step involved precisely measuring and applying frog tape for the horizontal lines, as the walls in their new build house were not perfectly straight. Each horizontal line had to be marked using a measuring tape and spirit level to avoid a wavy effect. The vertical lines were then added, using a spare wall tile as a guide for consistent brick sizing. This meticulous frog taping process alone took six hours. After the tape was meticulously applied, the painting itself was relatively quick, taking only about 10 minutes. Victoria used a deep fluffy roller with minimal pressure to achieve an almost porous effect, mimicking the texture of natural brick. For areas the roller couldn't reach, a natural sea sponge was used to fill in the gaps. The aim was to cover the entire wall with as little paint as possible to enhance the brick-like appearance. The total cost for this project was remarkably low, at just £12, which covered two rolls of frog tape and a small tester pot of deep grey paint, purchased online from a local Crown Paint store during lockdown. The white base paint was already available at home. Victoria expressed her delight with the final outcome, noting that she and her husband initially had concerns about how it would turn out, contemplating painting over it entirely if it looked bad. However, they both loved the result, finding that it added a unique flair to the kitchen and created an illusion of greater space. The project also garnered positive feedback from visitors. Victoria highlighted the cost-effectiveness of the renovation, stating that she never anticipated it would be so inexpensive, and considered it a low-risk endeavor given the minimal cost. She encourages others to share their DIY stories, reinforcing the article's focus on accessible home improvement projects. #DIY #HomeRenovations #KitchenDesign #FeatureWall #BudgetDecor #FrogTape #InteriorDesign #CreativeHacks

Lauren Wesley Designs, an Atlanta-based interior design firm founded by Ebonee Clark and Jameelah Watkins, both featured on HGTV's "Married to Real Estate," has transformed a fashion model's historic Roswell loft into a distinctive work of art. The designers aimed to create a bold, passionate, yet comfortable and welcoming space that reflects the client's personality and style. Their approach eschewed monochrome trends, embracing a colorful boho aesthetic characterized by natural elements and striking statement pieces. The designers emphasized the transformative power of wallpaper, noting that modern options offer unique ways to add interest, texture, and artistry to a home, with the added benefit of being removable for versatility. They highlighted that contemporary wallpaper is far removed from its traditional, often dated, perception. A key aspect of the design involved leveraging the loft's architectural features, particularly its breathtaking windows. The designers sought to integrate the outdoors, creating a seamless flow between the interior and the natural environment. A standout space in the home is the "content room," which features large black panel windows providing abundant natural light. This room was specifically designed to serve as a perfect backdrop for fashion hauls and content creation. The application of palm leaf wallpaper throughout this room adds a unique touch, complementing a blush sofa and a beaded blue chandelier, thereby contributing to the room's overall aesthetic and functionality. Ebonee Clark and Jameelah Watkins underscore the importance of taking risks in interior design. They believe that apprehension about selecting bold wallpaper or non-traditional upholstery colors can limit creativity. Instead, they encourage clients and aspiring designers to be adventurous in their choices, asserting that design should be inspiring and enjoyable. This philosophy is central to their work, enabling them to craft spaces that are not only visually appealing but also deeply personal to their clients. Beyond merely beautifying homes, Lauren Wesley Designs aims to inspire their clients to embrace a lifestyle that celebrates individuality and personal well-being. They view their role as interior designers as an opportunity to connect with clients on a deeper level, transforming living spaces into reflections of who their clients are and aspire to be. This holistic approach to design fosters environments that are vibrant, authentic, and conducive to a fulfilling life, moving beyond mere aesthetics to create meaningful and inspiring personal sanctuaries. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #AtlantaDesign #HGTV #RoswellLoft #BohoStyle #WallpaperTrends #LaurenWesleyDesigns

Kourtney Kardashian, often recognized for her role in 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians,' has established herself as a significant figure in interior design, showcasing a distinctive and elegant approach to decorating her Calabasas home. Purchased in 2014 for £6.5 million ($8.5m), her 12,000-square-foot property, set within 1.86 acres, features a home cinema, spa, sauna, sports court, a large swimming pool, six bedrooms, and numerous meticulously designed living spaces. Kardashian's design philosophy emphasizes understated elegance, particularly evident in her living room. This space combines neutral furnishings and natural textures, creating a sophisticated monochrome scheme. Key elements include a classic piano, a monochrome wall hanging, and a unique chaise longue, all contributing to a stylish yet uncluttered aesthetic. A notable feature is the eye-catching tiled fireplace with herringbone tiling, serving as a striking focal point. She also advocates for using coffee table books to effortlessly update a room's decor, as highlighted on her website, Poosh. Her bathroom design exemplifies how to create a tranquil and spa-like environment. Soft cream walls are complemented by dark wood units, and the space is adorned with neatly folded towels, luxurious beauty products, and a touch of greenery, ensuring a relaxing ambiance. Kourtney suggests that even small changes, such as adding pretty soap or scents, can significantly enhance the bathroom's feel. In her office, Kardashian demonstrates a willingness to infuse personality into her decor. She combines chic finishes with whimsical touches, such as playful graphic prints and an unusual Batman portrait. Architectural floor lights and marble shelving complete the look, proving that a workspace can be both stylish and inspiring. Kardashian's appreciation for high-end design is evident in her love for British designer Tom Dixon. She particularly fancies his brass pieces, like a spun brass tea set, which she notes can be integrated into various interior styles to add a chic and eye-catching element. She highlights the enduring appeal of brass in home decor. She skillfully employs neutrals to create calming spaces, as seen in her bedroom. Here, neutral tones are paired with natural wooden accents, and a clutter-free environment is maintained. Tactile light grey carpet and floor-length curtains contribute to a soft and private atmosphere. Kourtney prioritizes organic bedding, specifically Legna linens, and suggests using simple glass carafes in guest bedrooms to reduce plastic use. While favoring neutrals, Kardashian also embraces bold elements. Her Christmas decor, for example, features a vibrant mix of opulent gold ornaments, glittery baubles, and peacocks, set against dramatic striped wallpaper. This showcases her ability to incorporate color and quirky art into her design scheme without overwhelming the space. Her outdoor living areas are as meticulously designed as her interiors. The garden features manicured lawns, rows of matching sun loungers, and large leafy trees, creating an atmosphere of alfresco glamour. A Mediterranean-style outdoor kitchen, complete with a covered breakfast bar and marble tables, provides a sociable space for entertaining by the pool. This demonstrates her comprehensive approach to home design, extending elegance to the exterior. Finally, Kardashian exhibits an innate understanding of current trends, as evidenced by her choice of crisp white sofas in her living room. This daring yet effective style statement highlights her ability to select pieces that are both fashionable and functional, maintaining a cohesive and stylish aesthetic throughout her luxurious home. Her design choices consistently reflect a sophisticated blend of elegance, personal expression, and practical living. #KourtneyKardashian #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryHomes #CelebrityHomes #Calabasas #UnderstatedElegance #ModernDesign #NeutralPalette

Kate Albrecht and Joey Zehr, known as the YouTube-famous design team Mr. Kate, have garnered a substantial following of four million subscribers by providing renovation tips and performing stunning home makeovers for various influencers. The married couple, who have been collaborating for a decade, specialize in transforming spaces for YouTube celebrities such as Jeffree Star, James Charles, the Dolan twins, and Molly Burke. Their work frequently appears on their YouTube channel, where they share insights into their design process and reveal the finished projects. Working with YouTubers presents unique design considerations, as these spaces often serve as filming locations. Mr. Kate emphasizes the need to create environments that translate well on camera, incorporating elements like contrast, color, and distinctive touches that align with the YouTuber's personal brand and resonate with their audience. They find designing for YouTubers to be a creatively stimulating experience due to the clients' willingness to be adventurous with their spaces, allowing for more dramatic and impactful design choices. One notable project was the renovation of Jeffree Star's home spa. This extensive undertaking required a full construction crew and weeks of labor to achieve an opulent design that mirrored Star's glamorous public persona. Despite the significant effort involved, Mr. Kate deemed the outcome to be luxurious and beautiful. Another project involved designing Molly Burke's bedroom, with a particular focus on creating a multi-sensory environment. Given Burke's blindness, Mr. Kate ensured the room was both accessible and engaging by incorporating diverse textures, such as a wall made of stuffed animals and another featuring sequins, and adding scented accessories to create a calming atmosphere. Beyond their high-profile celebrity projects, Mr. Kate also provides practical advice for budget-conscious renovations. They demonstrated that significant transformations are possible even with limited funds, having designed an entire house for under $1,000 primarily using thrift store finds. They advocate for simple, cost-free changes, such as rearranging furniture to improve a room's flow and appearance. A common mistake they observe is the tendency for furniture to line the walls, leaving a large, empty central space. They suggest moving sofas or accent chairs away from walls to create a more inviting layout. Thrift store shopping is another key recommendation, as it allows for the discovery of unique and affordable items that can add character to a space. Mr. Kate identifies the biggest home decor mistake as a reluctance to take design risks. While acknowledging that neutral aesthetics are valid, they encourage people to introduce bold elements, such as a patterned rug or a large piece of art, to prevent a space from becoming bland. They also advise against rigidly following design trends, emphasizing that personal preferences should dictate decor choices rather than fleeting fads. Their philosophy centers on viewing design as a comprehensive, 360-degree experience, encouraging consideration of not just walls, but also floors and ceilings, suggesting elements like swag lights or area rugs to add interest and softness. #YouTube #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #JeffreeStar #JamesCharles #MrKate #HomeDecorTips #CelebrityHomes #BudgetDesign

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

Martha Stewart, despite not using curtains in her own home, has created a line of curtains available on Amazon, currently on sale. Her personal preference for not having curtains stems from a practical need to wake up early with the sun, as she lives and works on a farm, requiring her to be active by 7 a.m. This lifestyle choice allows her to embrace natural light and the routine of farm life without obstruction. However, recognizing that curtains are an essential element of home decor for most individuals, Stewart has designed a collection catering to diverse needs and aesthetic preferences. Her collection features a variety of lengths and thicknesses, ranging from delicate sheer options to blackout curtains, suitable for different rooms and desired levels of light filtration and privacy. The article highlights several selections from her collection, all of which are currently discounted. One featured item is the Martha Stewart Water's Edge Tufted Rod Pocket/Back Tab Window Curtain Panel Pair. These lightweight curtains, part of her Lily Pond Coastal Window Collection, are designed to softly filter sunlight, creating a light and airy ambiance. They are particularly recommended for kitchen windows, envisioning a serene morning coffee setting. The Sherwood Velvet Grommet Window Curtain Panel Pair, from Stewart's Skylands Traditional and Elegant Window Collection, offers a blend of comfort, warmth, and maximalist style. These velvet panels are ideal for spaces with transitional or traditional decor, adding a dramatic and cozy touch. For those seeking a traditional, cottagecore aesthetic, the Martha Stewart Jakarta Rod Pocket/Back Tab Window Curtain Panel Pair, from the Bedford Country Farmhouse Window Collection, provides floral curtains with a blackout lining. These are suitable for living rooms, dining spaces, or bedrooms, offering both style and practicality with their easy hanging options and machine-washable fabric. The Glacier Sheer Rod Pocket Window Curtain Panel Pair presents a versatile and fashionable option. These sheer curtains subtly filter light, making a room feel bright and spacious, and can be used as a standalone treatment or layered for a more dramatic effect. Another option from the Bedford Country Farmhouse Window Collection is the Lido Linen Blackout Foam Lined Rod Pocket/Back Tab Window Curtain Panel Pair. These foam-lined curtains are designed to block unwanted sunlight, reduce noise, and minimize drafts. They also help protect furniture, rugs, and floors from fading due to sun exposure, while adding textural interest to a room. Finally, the Laguna Stripe Tie Tab Window Curtain Panel Pair, from the Lily Pond Coastal Window Collection, features yarn-dyed, semi-sheer fabric with a soft pinstripe. These curtains offer subtle decorative interest and are well-suited for contemporary living rooms, entryways, or landings where ample sunlight is desired. #MarthaStewart #CurtainDesign #HomeDecor #AmazonDeals #InteriorStyling #WindowTreatments #CelebrityStyle #HomeFurnishings

Interiors stylist Laurie Davidson transformed her home office into a Western-style retreat, drawing inspiration from her travels and a love for country aesthetics. The original office, one of the first rooms decorated upon moving in, was described as bland with white walls and an unappealing storage unit, lacking personality and creative inspiration. Laurie aimed to infuse the space with a cozy, rugged feel, incorporating warm woods, rustic textures, and a specific color palette. The makeover began with selecting a paint color called Isabel’s Bloom from Claybrook Studio, a warm peach shade reminiscent of a sunset or setting plaster. This color was chosen to maintain a light feel while adding warmth, complementing the envisioned wood furniture and accent colors of brown and terracotta. Despite an existing grey laminate floor, Laurie decided to keep it to manage costs, planning to cover most of it with a large rug. For furniture and accessories, Laurie collaborated with Wayfair, leveraging their extensive selection. She chose a large desk with a wood top to match existing scaffold shelves and a comfortable office chair. A key addition was a faux cowhide print chair, intended as a relaxing spot for meetings and a 'break-out space' within the office. To address an old radiator, a radiator cover was installed and painted to match the walls, creating a seamless look and a functional 'tea station' for hot drinks, reducing disturbances to her partner also working from home. Shelving in a scaffold style was incorporated to display decorative items. The accessories focused on earthy, textured pieces, including terracotta candles, cane storage boxes, and artisanal ceramics, all sourced affordably from Wayfair. To bridge the gap between indoor and outdoor living, a characteristic of ranch-style homes, Laurie introduced real and faux cacti, willow stems, and plants from Leaf Envy. The storage solution was streamlined, replacing a large, unattractive unit with a single, rustic-looking unit on the back wall and a smaller, wheeled filing unit for desk essentials. This new storage offers space for fabrics, paint swatches, books, and even a dedicated cubby for drinks, featuring a faux concrete appearance. Wall art played a role in enhancing the Western theme, with canvas prints in orange and brown tones adding visual interest without overwhelming the space. Laurie often utilizes the faux cowhide chair during online meetings, appreciating its contribution to the room's overall aesthetic. The transformation has significantly impacted Laurie's work environment, fostering creativity and a peaceful, uncluttered, and homely atmosphere for her and her cats, Chas and Dave. Wayfair’s style advisor, Dee Fontenot, highlights the importance of personalizing a home office to boost productivity and creativity, suggesting wall art, plants, and specific scents like peppermint and cedarwood to enhance focus and mood. #HomeOfficeMakeover #WesternStyleDecor #InteriorDesign #RoomTransformation #RusticInteriors #CowgirlChic #DIYHomeDecor #WayfairFinds #ProductivityBoost