Are glass coffee tables still on trend? Designers weigh in on this 'love it or hate it' style

Creating a timeless kitchen requires careful consideration of various features, and one element that often comes into question is the glass-fronted kitchen cabinet. While these cabinets align with a traditional aesthetic, their current relevance and ability to remain contemporary are subjects of discussion among interior designers and kitchen experts. With numerous kitchen cabinet ideas available, the chosen style significantly influences the overall feel and aesthetic of the space. It is crucial to select cabinets that complement the interior design without making the space appear dated. Historically, glass-fronted kitchen cabinets experienced a dip in popularity when more contemporary and minimalist designs dominated kitchen trends. However, there is currently a resurgence in their appeal, driven by both their aesthetic and practical advantages. Glass finishes are effective in maximizing light flow into darker areas of a kitchen, preventing cabinets from appearing as solid, overwhelming blocks. This characteristic is particularly beneficial in small kitchens, where even a minor alteration to upper cabinets can significantly enhance brightness and spaciousness. Beyond small spaces, glass-fronted cabinets are well-suited for various kitchen styles, including traditional, farmhouse, cottage, and rustic designs, providing a timeless charm and a visual break from extensive built-in surfaces. Glass also introduces an element of interest and texture to a kitchen scheme. Clear glazing allows for the display of contents, a desired effect for showcasing attractive tableware. Alternatively, reeded glass can be employed to diffuse the view of items, offering a balance between openness and concealed storage. The versatility of glass-fronted cabinets allows them to be tastefully integrated into diverse interior design styles. There are several effective approaches to incorporating them, ranging from tall cabinets to distinctive focal points. One popular method is to opt for fluted glass, which, while allowing visibility, provides a blurred effect. This obscures the precise contents of the cabinets, reducing the need for immaculate tidiness and enabling a 'display-ready' appearance without constant effort. Fluted glass cabinets contribute a vintage charm and can break up the visual bulk of wooden storage, especially in floor-to-ceiling applications. Another approach involves using glass-fronted cabinets to frame specific kitchen features, such as a cooker. Instead of outfitting every cupboard with glass, selecting one or two glass-fronted units can create an attractive focal point and introduce symmetry. This 'less is more' strategy allows these special features to stand out and contributes to a more bespoke kitchen design tailored to individual needs. Furthermore, incorporating antique or vintage glass-fronted pieces, such as upcycled islands or old medicine cabinets, can introduce significant character and a sense of 'old-meets-new' to the design. When using vintage items, it is advisable to place them away from high heat or dampness to preserve their condition, or reinforce them with stronger glass if they are to be in high-traffic areas. For a bolder aesthetic, the interior of glass-fronted cabinets can be painted a vibrant color, offering a fun and personalized touch. This creates a striking contrast with the dominant cabinetry scheme and adds visual interest. Finally, integrating glass-fronted cabinets into kitchen islands is becoming increasingly popular, particularly in open-plan kitchens. This design choice softens the island's appearance, making the kitchen area feel more inviting and creating a cohesive flow into an adjacent living space. Toughened glass should always be used in such applications, with specific styling enhancing the transition from the living room to the kitchen. In conclusion, glass-fronted kitchen cabinets remain a relevant and stylish design choice. The key lies in thoughtful curation, ensuring the glass elements complement the existing space and aesthetic rather than overpowering it. Whether used to enhance an open-plan layout, frame a range cooker, or introduce a pop of color, this revived trend offers numerous possibilities for creating a contemporary and cohesive kitchen design. #KitchenDesign #Cabinetry #InteriorDesignTrends #GlassCabinets #KitchenRevival #HomeDecor #KitchenStyle #VintageDesign #FlutedGlass

Coffee tables are evolving beyond their traditional function, becoming central design elements that reflect personal style and contribute significantly to a home's aesthetic. For 2025, the emphasis is on bolder and more expressive designs, moving away from conventional and predictable styles. Interior designers and editors are highlighting nine key trends that are shaping the current coffee table landscape, ranging from material choices and shapes to overall design philosophy. One prominent trend is the resurgence of post-modernist designs, characterized by sculptural and geometric forms for legs and bases. These tables often incorporate playful elements from the 1980s, combining classical pillar-like structures with modern clean lines and restrained color palettes. Materials like travertine and glass are frequently used to showcase these intricate forms, creating versatile pieces that transcend fleeting trends. An example is a vintage Lella & Massimo Vignelli for Casigliani coffee table, praised for its timeless blend of references. Another significant trend is the use of ethereal glass, which brings a soft, otherworldly quality to interiors. Inspired by contemporary lighting trends, these glass coffee tables, such as Glas Italia’s Simoon range by Patricia Urquiola, offer unique textures and depth. The surface, often coated with ground Murano glass, provides a subtle texture that adds chic and understated glamour, making the coffee table a functional art piece that integrates seamlessly with its surroundings. The 'library table' concept emphasizes practicality and authenticity in coffee table decor. Instead of purely decorative objects, designers are opting for stacks of books, often mixed with useful catchalls. This approach allows for a less pretentious display, where book selections can be diverse in topics and colors, encouraging interaction and conversation among guests. The focus is on a 'lived-in' feel, with book arrangements considering color schemes for a symbiotic visual effect. Flared legs are making a comeback, adding a sense of whimsy and generous proportion to coffee table designs. This style, reminiscent of 70s fashion, helps tables feel less basic and more playful, blending well with various decor styles. Designers note that flared legs offer a unique character that can enhance the overall interior aesthetic. Beautifully-veined stone, particularly marble, continues to be a sought-after material for coffee tables. The trend leans towards bold veining that creates drama and visual texture, especially in spaces with a sparse color palette. Custom-designed marble tables, often utilizing remnants from other projects, feature unexpected shapes like three legs instead of four, adding dynamic movement and a unique sculptural quality to the room. Architectural styles are also influencing coffee table designs, with fluted textures and curved forms appearing in pieces that complement other architectural elements within a home. These coffee tables are often designed to integrate with the broader architectural context, echoing curves found in dining tables or skylights, and creating a cohesive design narrative within the space. Monobloc forms, characterized by large, solid blocks of material like concrete, marble, or stone, are popular for their structural feel. These tables act as plinths, grounding the space and emphasizing a central gathering point. They create contrast with softer furnishings and often highlight natural materials, contributing to an aesthetic and minimalist atmosphere. Natural curves in coffee table designs are taking a new direction, moving towards biomorphic aesthetics inspired by organic shapes. These curves, less abstract than previous iterations, use repetition and unique forms to add character. Designers are exploring modern organic and biomorphic designs that offer a fresh interpretation of curved furniture. Lastly, unexpected shapes, such as geometric or triangular forms, are being used to create focal points and inject personality into a space. These unconventional shapes provide interest and depth, particularly in rooms with linear designs, allowing for a more creative and playful approach to styling while maintaining elegance and practicality. Combining multiple nesting tables of unusual shapes can further enhance this effect, shifting traditional layout perceptions. Ultimately, coffee tables are not just surfaces but platforms for personal expression and conversation starters. The objects displayed on them, such as books, candles, plants, and decorative boxes, are chosen for their artistic impact, mood-enhancing qualities, and ability to reflect personal interests, contributing to a welcoming and engaging living space. #CoffeeTableTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #FurnitureDesign #ModernInteriors #SculpturalFurniture #MaterialTrends #ContemporaryDesign #DesignInspiration

Floating shelves have been a popular interior design feature, offering a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. However, like many design trends, their timelessness versus fleeting popularity is often debated. Interior designers and experts weigh in on whether floating shelves maintain their appeal in 2024, noting that while they are still relevant, their function and application have evolved. Historically, floating shelves served as a simple and affordable storage solution, often characterized by their vastness and capacity for numerous belongings. In recent years, their role has shifted from purely utilitarian to more decorative, often used to create a focal point or a 'shelfie moment' in various rooms. Kathy Kuo, CEO of Kathy Kuo Home, emphasizes their versatility, viewing them as an integral part of a wall decor toolkit that adds character and depth to any space. Floating shelves are increasingly being incorporated into functional areas like kitchens, where they offer an alternative to bulky cabinetry. Marie Flanigan of Marie Flanigan Interiors notes that kitchen shelving provides a less imposing storage option, ideal for smaller spaces, while also allowing homeowners to showcase cherished kitchenware. This approach merges practicality with display aesthetics. Despite the enduring presence of traditional floating shelves, designers are exploring and favoring alternative shelving styles. Glass open shelving, particularly those with brass accents, is gaining traction. These hanging shelves offer greater versatility, especially in kitchens with islands or peninsulas, as their transparent nature reduces visual bulk. Marie Flanigan highlights that the delicate touch of brass adds cohesion and an elevated, curated look, making them a stylish choice for displaying beautiful pieces while keeping practical items accessible. Freestanding shelves are another popular alternative, particularly suited for smaller rooms such as bathrooms and pantries. These units maximize vertical space and offer diverse storage options, including drawers for concealed items and hooks for towels or dishcloths. This multi-functional aspect makes them more practical than floating shelves in specific contexts, combining open display with discreet storage. Shelving with decorative hardware is also making a comeback. Designers are opting for thinner shelves secured with ornate brackets, often in metallic finishes like gold, to complement existing room hardware. Hebe Hatton, head of interiors at H&G, points out that while traditional floating shelves tend to be thick for structural support, bracketed designs allow for more elegant and slender profiles, adding a touch of flair to utilitarian spaces where decorative elements can be challenging to introduce. Bespoke shelving units, especially built-ins, are experiencing a resurgence, particularly in living areas and home offices. These larger installations serve as significant focal points and are ideal for spacious rooms where their bulk can be balanced by the room's scale. They not only provide extensive storage capacity, far surpassing that of individual floating shelves, but also contribute to a cohesive and well-designed scheme, preventing vast empty wall spaces. In conclusion, floating shelves remain a relevant trend in interior design. However, their application has evolved to include more decorative purposes and specific functional areas. The emergence of alternatives like glass open shelving, freestanding units, shelves with decorative hardware, and bespoke built-in units indicates a diversification in shelving choices, allowing designers to select the most appropriate style for different spaces and aesthetic preferences. #FloatingShelves #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecoration #KitchenDesign #StorageSolutions #ShelfieStyle #BuiltInShelving #ModernShelving #DesignVersatility

This article explores a curated selection of coffee tables, highlighting their evolution from functional household items to sculptural statement pieces. The coffee table, a central fixture in many living rooms, has roots in various cultures, including the Ottoman Empire and East Asia, where low tables were integral to daily life. Its modern form gained prominence in Victorian England, adapting to informal social gatherings. By the mid-20th century, designers like Isamu Noguchi elevated its status, transforming it into a piece that blended form and function seamlessly. The 'Meltingpot' table by Dirk van der Kooij exemplifies innovative material reuse, crafted from recycled plastic prototypes and color tests. Each piece showcases unique, plasticine-like patterns, reflecting a commitment to circularity and material transformation. Ana Kraš’ 'Slon' tables, named after the Serbian word for 'elephant,' are part of the 'chubby furniture' movement, featuring rounded, monolithic forms with cylindrical legs and lightweight tops. This collection includes various pieces, with the coffee table embodying a playful yet sophisticated design. Sebastian Cox's 'Hewn' coffee table, introduced in 2014, champions circularity through its use of coppiced hazel from his Kent woodland. The design contrasts rough hazel legs with a smooth English ash top, emphasizing natural origins and material character. Norm Architects' 'Plinth' series for Audo offers minimalist marble podiums that serve as versatile side tables, coffee tables, or platforms, celebrating the monolithic beauty of natural stone and available in various marble types and a unique Kunis Breccia stone. John Pawson's 'Berg' coffee table, a collaboration with WonderGlass, appears as an ice sculpture made from cast glass, highlighting glass's potential for delicate yet dramatic design. The 'Fortune' coffee tables by Egg Collective are modular, sinuous pieces available in multiple sizes and shapes, designed to nestle together or stand alone. Crafted in burnished or polished stainless steel, select pieces feature symbolic inlays from the 'Snake Eyes' collection, adding layers of mysticism and personal meaning. Patricia Urquiola's 'Undique Mas' tables for Kartell, a softer and fuller reimagining of her earlier 'Undique' collection, feature an almost cartoon-like appearance. Made from polyester-lacquered beechwood, they are available in three shapes, sizes, and complementary colors for flexible arrangement. Sori Yanagi's 'Monjiro' coffee table, part of the 'Yanagi' collection for HIDA Sangyo, combines simplicity and functionality with modern forms, featuring a solid white oak top and a criss-crossed chrome base, reflecting HIDA's woodworking expertise and commitment to sustainability. Si Hyun Park’s bent stainless steel coffee table, despite its industrial look, draws inspiration from Shaker furniture's practicality. It is sturdy, lightweight, and low-maintenance, with sandblasted surfaces featuring nature-inspired patterns. Lastly, the 'Pastille' coffee table by Vonnegut Kraft, a collaboration with ceramist Natalie Weinberger, features a tactile matte black ceramic top with a pitted glaze. Its graphic stretcher base creates optical illusions, with moiré patterns that shift based on the viewer's perspective. These diverse designs collectively illustrate the coffee table's role as a canvas for material experimentation and artistic expression, reflecting both the designer's vision and the owner's personality. #CoffeeTables #FurnitureDesign #InteriorDesign #ProductDesign #SustainableDesign #ModernFurniture #HomeDecor #DesignTrends

Fluted, or reeded, glass kitchen cabinets have maintained their popularity in contemporary kitchen design, evolving from a novel choice to a more common yet still fashionable element. These cabinets, characterized by vertical grooves, soften natural light and add visual interest, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. The textured surface provides a degree of privacy, obscuring cabinet contents while allowing light to penetrate, making them ideal for displaying select items while concealing everyday clutter. According to Artem Kropovinsky, founder of Arsight, fluted glass kitchen cabinets remain on trend due to their adaptability across various design styles, from minimalist to classic. The subtle texture introduces depth without overpowering the overall design, and the grooved surface diffuses light, creating a softer, more ambient atmosphere. This semi-obscured view of cabinet interiors offers a balance between display and discretion. Understanding the pros and cons of glass kitchen cabinets, including fluted options, is important for homeowners considering this design choice. One application of fluted glass is in classic white cabinets. Here, the textured glass adds depth to the pristine white finish, contributing to a light and airy feel, particularly beneficial in small kitchens where reflective qualities make spaces appear larger. White cabinetry, often a go-to for its versatility and ability to brighten compact areas, can sometimes lack depth. Fluted glass inserts address this by introducing texture without compromising the clean aesthetic. The ridged glass diffuses light, preventing harsh reflections, and is relatively low-maintenance, as the textured surface helps to mask fingerprints and watermarks. Another approach involves dark-toned cabinets with fluted glass accents. Amelia Hunter, co-founder of Space A, notes a rising trend toward richer, darker hues in kitchens. Deep shades like navy blue, charcoal gray, or forest green, when combined with fluted glass, create striking contrast and add depth and dimension. While dark cabinets can feel heavy, especially in dimly lit spaces, the translucent fluted glass allows light to filter through, preventing the kitchen from feeling enclosed. Strategic lighting, such as pendant lights or under-cabinet lighting, can further enhance this effect. Natural wood cabinets with fluted glass doors offer a blend of rustic and contemporary styles, appealing to homeowners seeking natural materials and warmth. The visible grain and imperfections of wood create an organic aesthetic that complements the structured lines of fluted glass. This combination is suitable for kitchens that integrate both classic and contemporary elements, offering a timeless yet current design. This pairing is considered a strong contender for future-proofing kitchen designs. For modern and minimalist kitchens, full-length fluted glass panels are a compelling solution. These designs utilize uninterrupted panels that span the cabinet's full height, drawing the eye upward and enhancing the perception of space, making ceilings appear higher. This is particularly effective in kitchens with lower ceilings. In open-plan settings, these cabinets can serve as functional storage and subtle room dividers, sometimes designed as freestanding units or glass-enclosed pantries. LED strip lighting can be incorporated inside for an ambient glow. From a practical perspective, fluted glass provides discretion for those who appreciate the look of open shelving but prefer to keep contents slightly hidden, allowing for a silhouette display effect. The versatility of fluted glass allows it to pair well with various materials, offering extensive customization options to suit diverse kitchen aesthetics. #FlutedGlass #KitchenCabinets #InteriorDesign #KitchenTrends #HomeDecor #GlassCabinets #DesignTips #ModernKitchen #Cabinetry

Styling a coffee table effectively is a nuanced art, requiring a balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal. The challenge lies in creating a display that reflects personal taste without appearing overly contrived or "over-posed." A recent trend in interior design, dubbed "coffee table stacking," offers a solution by emphasizing a single decor element: books. This approach focuses on piling books high on coffee tables to create a bold statement that offers both casual elegance and a sense of authenticity to living spaces. Interior designers are embracing this trend as a way to inject personality and a lived-in feel into a room. Timothy Godbold, a Hamptons-based interior designer, recalls being inspired by Elton John's library table, which featured a substantial stack of books amidst other decorative items. Godbold appreciates the maximalist yet unpretentious nature of such a display, contrasting it with overly styled coffee tables that lack authenticity. He suggests that this method fosters a more casual chic aesthetic, making the coffee table a focal point that subtly reveals the homeowner's interests and passions. Justin Charette, another interior designer, concurs, highlighting that stacks of books offer significant insight into the homeowners' personal interests, creating a conversational element in a social space. Beyond personal expression, coffee table stacking also provides practical benefits. It builds layers, which can be useful for placing other objects, and serves as an effective, budget-friendly way to fill a large coffee table while maintaining visual interest. When selecting books for this trend, designers advise a thoughtful approach. While the idea of haphazardly arranging books might appeal to a laissez-faire aesthetic, being selective is crucial. Timothy Godbold recommends choosing a variety of topics, as people often read the books. He also suggests considering color palettes, avoiding colors that clash with the room's overall design to ensure a more cohesive and "symbiotic" feel. Justin Charette adds that the books should reflect personal interests, but also possess attractive covers and spines. He advises using mostly large, hardcover books to achieve the desired substantial look. To complete the look and prevent the arrangement from becoming too singular, designers often incorporate other elements. Timothy Godbold suggests adding personal belongings on top of the book stacks, such as key trays or vases for flowers, to introduce different heights and textures. This personalization helps to avoid the "overly decorated" trap, ensuring the display feels genuinely connected to the homeowner. The goal is to achieve a balance where the stacked books serve as the primary visual anchor, complemented by a few carefully chosen objects that enhance the overall aesthetic without overwhelming it. This trend transforms the coffee table into a curated reflection of personality and intellectual curiosity, moving away from rigid styling rules towards a more organic and inviting presentation. #CoffeeTableStyling #InteriorDesignTrends #BookStacking #HomeDecor #LivingRoomDesign #CasualChic #PersonalizedInteriors #DesignTips #AuthenticDesign

Coffee tables are integral to living room aesthetics and functionality, serving as a focal point that can significantly influence the overall design of a space. Design experts have identified five key trends in coffee table design for 2024, each offering unique ways to enhance a living room's style and utility. These trends emphasize the importance of selecting a coffee table that not only aligns with current design sensibilities but also reflects personal style and practical needs. One prominent trend is the incorporation of natural materials. As there is a growing appreciation for sustainability and bringing elements of the outdoors inside, coffee tables crafted from reclaimed wood, stone, and live-edge slabs are gaining popularity. These materials introduce unique textures and warmth into living spaces. For instance, a live-edge walnut coffee table can serve as both a functional piece of furniture and a statement of sustainable design, offering durability and a connection to nature. This trend aligns with broader interior design movements towards organic and eco-conscious choices, making such tables a versatile addition to various decor styles. The second trend highlights unique designs, moving away from conventional rectangular or circular shapes. Modern coffee tables are embracing more playful and characteristic forms, such as organically shaped surfaces, spherical bases, or unexpected material pairings. This approach positions the coffee table as a standalone piece of art, encouraging homeowners to express their individuality and creativity. This trend is particularly appealing for those looking to infuse personality into their living areas, transforming a functional item into a conversation starter. Exploring second-hand or thrift stores can also be a way to discover truly distinctive and one-of-a-kind pieces that embody this trend. Spaciousness is another key trend, particularly for those with small living rooms. Large, rectangular coffee tables often feature integrated storage solutions, maximizing utility in compact spaces. These tables provide ample surface area for decorative items, books, and refreshments, while hidden compartments help maintain a clutter-free environment. Materials such as steel frames combined with wood or stone tops are recommended for their versatility and ability to complement diverse decor styles. Such designs prioritize both aesthetic appeal and practical storage, making them ideal for modern living. The fourth trend involves mixing materials to create a balanced and sophisticated aesthetic. This trend embraces the juxtaposition of different textures and finishes, such as sleek metal frames paired with rustic wooden tops or elegant glass surfaces. This approach allows for the creation of a unique character in a living space without overwhelming it. For example, a coffee table with a brass frame and a reclaimed wood top can introduce a touch of sophistication to a minimalist or farmhouse-inspired interior, blending different elements harmoniously. Finally, the quiet luxury trend continues to influence coffee table design. This style emphasizes understated elegance and high-quality craftsmanship. Coffee tables featuring luxurious materials like marble tops and gold metal frames make a bold statement, evoking a sense of opulence. Pairing these tables with sophisticated accessories, such as premium candles or visually appealing coffee table books, enhances the luxurious feel, creating a chic, hotel-inspired ambiance. Ultimately, the most important aspect across all these trends is selecting a coffee table that aligns with individual style and functional requirements, ensuring it anchors the living room and makes the space feel complete. #CoffeeTableTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #NaturalMaterials #UniqueDesigns #SpaciousFurniture #MixedMaterials #LuxeStyles #LivingRoomTrends

Marble, a natural stone esteemed for centuries in building and decorating, remains a luxurious and timeless material in interior design. Despite evolving trends, experts affirm its enduring appeal, attributing it to its natural character, diverse color and texture variations, and inherent durability. While marble is undeniably popular for kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, and decorative accessories, its practicality, especially in high-traffic areas, and cost-effectiveness are factors designers consider. In kitchens, marble is celebrated for its elegant and luxurious aesthetic as a countertop option. However, its softness and porous nature make it susceptible to staining and chipping. Designers like Naomi Astley Clarke suggest quartz as a practical alternative, offering a similar natural stone look with enhanced durability and resistance to stains and scratches. Claudio Corniola of Laminam highlights porcelain slabs as another innovative option, capable of emulating marble's appearance without the high maintenance and cost. These alternatives cater to those seeking marble's aesthetic without its specific care requirements. For bathrooms, marble is a favored choice due to its natural water resistance and ability to create a spa-like ambiance. Designers recommend honed finishes over polished ones in wet areas to improve durability and reduce slipperiness, advising against dark marble for these spaces. The versatility of marble extends beyond primary surfaces. Interior designers such as Artem Kropovinsky and Kristina LoMonaco emphasize incorporating marble through accent pieces like trays, coasters, and lamp bases. These smaller elements provide an effortless way to introduce luxury, offering an accessible entry point for those on a budget or looking to add subtle sophistication. Kristina LoMonaco particularly notes how marble, when combined with warmer materials like wood and textured fabrics, can modernize a space. When it comes to flooring, marble provides a classic and opulent foundation, though it is typically a more expensive option. Patricia Knight of Zinnia Design Studio underscores marble's timelessness and artistic potential but also points out its porosity and susceptibility to scratches, necessitating frequent sealing. She suggests modern alternatives like sintered stone products, such as Neolith, which offer strength, durability, and a more sustainable profile. These alternatives allow for a marble effect without the premium price or intensive upkeep. Overall, the consensus among interior designers is that marble transcends fleeting trends. It is viewed as a classic, sophisticated, and versatile material that continues to bring a unique, luxurious, and timeless quality to any home, regardless of style or age. The material's natural beauty and ability to create an indoor-outdoor connection ensure its lasting presence in interior design, even with the rise of more affordable and practical alternatives. #MarbleTrends #InteriorDesign #LuxuryMaterials #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #HomeDecor #NaturalStone #DesignAlternatives #TimelessDesign

The article highlights six new collections that showcase the enduring appeal and versatility of glass in contemporary design. These works demonstrate designers' fascination with the fragile material, utilizing rigorous techniques to create both decorative and functional pieces. The featured collections primarily come from emerging designers who are challenging and elevating traditional glassmaking practices. One of the highlighted collections is Agmes Anniversary, a collaboration between jewelry brand Agmes and glass artist Anthony Bianco of Bianco Light & Space. This collection marks Agmes's sixth anniversary and includes an organically shaped handblown bud vase and a textured small dish, available in various colors, alongside personal accessories that revisit an earlier glass jewelry line. Another notable collection is PhilaTerra, a charitable initiative by Colony, a New York City-based cooperative design gallery, creative firm, and studio, in collaboration with artist Deborah Czeresko. Czeresko, a winner of Netflix's 'Blown Away,' produced a limited edition of 100 glass vases, some colorless and others vibrantly hued, designed by Colony founder Jean Lin. Proceeds from the PhilaTerra collection support the Environmental Defense Fund and the Rainforest Foundation US. Heath Ceramics, known for its experimental and collaborative approach beyond clay, partnered with glassblower Cedric Mitchell for a new collection. Mitchell, based in Los Angeles, created a series of elegant bottles and vases with subtle Memphis influences, as well as jewel-toned cocktail stirring glasses and tumblers. Mitchell is also an instructor and a team member of Crafting the Future, a nonprofit that funds young talent for craft school experiences to promote diversity in the field. Sophie Lou Jacobsen, a sustainably-minded glassware designer, introduced her "Asking for a Friend" collection at Assembly Line in Brooklyn. This collection, on display through July 1, features Jacobsen’s distinctive silhouetted works, which were produced at Keep Brooklyn’s studio. The "Vetro Alga" exhibition by multidisciplinary designer Dana Arbib, curated by Alex Tieghi-Walker’s Tiwa Select, was showcased during New York Design Week at Galerie Michael Bargo. Arbib's work explores her Libyan heritage through glass, collaborating with Venetian artisans to honor Venice's rich glassblowing history. The collection, whose name means "seaweed glass" in Italian, draws inspiration from her distant relative Salvatore Arbib, a prominent Venetian glassblower from the early 20th century, resulting in textured vessels and bowls made in Murano. Finally, Swedish artist Annika Jarring's Line vase is recognized for the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize. Jarring’s innovative technique involves shaping 392 small glass elements with silicone to create an architectural vessel. Inspired by the ornamental jade pieces of ancient Chinese burial suits, this sculptural piece is one of 30 works shortlisted for the prize and will be exhibited at the Seoul Museum of Craft Art. #GlassDesign #HomeDecor #ContemporaryGlassware #DesignCollections #EmergingDesigners #ArtisanCraftsmanship #InteriorDesignTrends #CharitableDesign #GlassArt

The concept of the formal dining room, once seemingly rendered obsolete by the open-concept living trend and the rise of casual dining, is experiencing a resurgence in 2025. This shift is driven by a desire for more intimate, intentional, and distinct spaces within the home, moving away from the inherent casualness that dominated during the open-plan era. Interior designers are observing a renewed appreciation for these dedicated dining areas, which offer an elevated dining experience, separated from the daily clutter and noise of the kitchen. This re-evaluation of the dining room's role in modern homes is attributed, in part, to recent global events that necessitated multifunctional rooms and a broader trend towards creating cozy, personalized environments. Designers such as Caroline Milns, head of interior design at Zulufish, explain that homeowners are actively seeking quieter, more formal zones that provide a sense of intimacy and distinction. This allows for meals to feel more intentional, glamorous, and immersive, fostering connection and a sense of occasion. Kathryn Dunagan, vice president of Marc-Michaels Interior Design, highlights a growing emphasis on slowing down and being present, with the dining room becoming a meaningful part of this movement. There's a visible trend towards designing spaces where distractions like phones and televisions are absent, encouraging genuine conversation during meals. The modern formal dining room differs significantly from its traditional, often stuffy predecessors. It is no longer reserved solely for holidays or special occasions but is becoming integrated into weekly or even daily rituals, promoting intention and connection in routines. The key is to blend contemporary design with functionality, ensuring the space feels special without being stiff. Designers advise infusing personality through dramatic lighting, rich textures, and unexpected color palettes, allowing for a bolder, more theatrical expression than other areas of the home. However, it's crucial to maintain a welcoming atmosphere, preventing the space from feeling unapproachable. Decor plays a vital role in creating this reimagined formal dining experience. Caroline Milns suggests embracing design concepts that confidently layer rich patterns with unexpected color combinations and incorporating bespoke furniture that serves as both utility and art. The dining table remains the central focus, offering spatial definition and a dramatic focal point. Plush, upholstered chairs are recommended to invite comfort and lingering conversation, balancing formality with relaxed elegance. Anchoring the space with a generously sized, richly textured rug adds warmth and acoustic softness, enhancing the room's depth and cohesion. To ensure the space feels purposeful, custom cabinetry or display furniture can be used to showcase curated dinnerware collections, creating a refined, gallery-like ambiance. Contemporary approaches include using bold wallcoverings, unique pendant lighting, or high-gloss ceilings to create visual drama. Architectural elements like partial walls, glass partitions, and steel-framed doors are employed to subtly separate the dining area while maintaining clear sightlines and natural light flow, making the room distinct yet seamlessly integrated within the home. Even in smaller spaces, impact can be achieved through thoughtful design choices rather than size, demonstrating that formal dining rooms can be both grand and functional. This renewed approach to formal dining reintroduces a sense of occasion and intentionality, reflecting a desire for balance between the versatility of open-plan living and the sophistication of dedicated, intimate spaces. #FormalDiningRooms #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #ModernDining #DesignResurgence #IntimateSpaces # intentionalLiving #InteriorDesigners #SpacePlanning

The coffee table is an integral furniture piece for any living room, serving both a functional and aesthetic purpose. It provides a convenient surface for beverages, magazines, and decorative items, while also significantly contributing to the overall style and atmosphere of a space. Given the vast array of options available, selecting the right coffee table can be a daunting task. This article aims to simplify the decision-making process by exploring various types of coffee tables and highlighting a selection of modern designs available in the market. Several distinct types of coffee tables cater to different needs and preferences. Trunk coffee tables, often rectangular and featuring a lidded top reminiscent of traditional suitcases, offer a unique vintage appeal. Storage coffee tables, equipped with drawers or compartments, are ideal for maintaining a clutter-free living area. Tray top coffee tables, with their removable tray surfaces, are particularly suitable for serving drinks and snacks. Mirrored coffee tables can create an illusion of increased space, similar to wall mirrors, by reflecting light and surrounding elements. Nesting coffee tables, consisting of two or more tables that progressively decrease in size and can be stored beneath each other, provide flexibility and space-saving solutions. Lift-top coffee tables feature a portable tabletop that can be adjusted from a low cocktail height to a dining table height, offering versatility for various activities. Finally, upholstered coffee tables are a practical choice for households with children, as their soft edges minimize the risk of injury from accidental bumps. When choosing a coffee table, it's essential to consider the available space, functional requirements, and personal style. The living room, often a central gathering point and the first area guests see, benefits significantly from a well-chosen coffee table that complements the seating arrangement and holds necessities like reading materials and remote controls. The article then presents a curated list of 20 modern coffee table designs, detailing their brands, primary materials, table types, dimensions, weights, colors, and warranty information where applicable. Examples include the BLUEWUD Osnale and Noel Engineered Wood Coffee Tables, known for their contemporary wooden designs and practicality, and the Klaxon Lupine and Keelan Engineered Wood Coffee Tables, offering modern aesthetics and durability. The Esquire Plastic Coffee Table is presented as a budget-friendly yet classy option with additional storage. Priti Boo-M and Golden Dreamer Morgan Iron Wooden Coffee Side End Tables showcase unique designs with MDF tops and metal bases. SI Creation Handicrafts features a Sheesham wooden folding coffee table with traditional handcrafted patterns. Heera Moti Corporation offers a modern blue and white coffee table emphasizing simplicity, while Simran Handicrafts provides a bowed round industrial metal table. Vudy's round coffee table with tripod legs offers a versatile, modern look for small spaces. More elaborate options include the Home Centre Finn MDF High Gloss Two-Tiered Coffee Table with a glass top and added storage, and the Area Furniture Teak Coffee Table, a long-lasting contemporary piece made from teak wood. The INDISKIE Gold Finish Marble Coffee Table adds a touch of elegance with its marble top, and the Solimo Acamar Solid Sheesham Wood Coffee Table comes with four stools, offering a complete seating solution. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of thoughtful selection to enhance living room style and addresses frequently asked questions regarding kid-friendly options, suitable materials (wood, glass, marble, travertine), and proper sizing relative to a sofa, suggesting that a coffee table can also serve as a colorful art piece in a neutral room. #CoffeeTableDesigns #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #LivingRoomFurniture #ModernFurniture #CoffeeTableTypes #FurnitureSelection #HomeStyling #IndianFurniture

Gallery walls have become a popular home decor trend over the past decade, allowing individuals to display their unique personality and style through a collection of framed art. Designers confirm that gallery walls remain a timeless and versatile design choice. The key to a successful gallery wall lies in thoughtful curation, moving beyond simply filling a wall to tell a personal story. Experts suggest an eclectic mix of art from various genres and mediums, emphasizing that authenticity and meaning are crucial. While there's no strict formula, the overarching principle is to select art that resonates personally. Creating an impactful gallery wall involves considering several elements, starting with the room itself. The color scheme of the room should guide the selection of art colors to ensure harmony with existing decor. Composition offers broad flexibility, from walls dedicated solely to family photos to those showcasing a blend of prints, paintings, and three-dimensional objects. Many designers advocate for mixing mediums or adhering to a specific color palette or theme. However, opinions vary on including personal photographs alongside fine art; some designers suggest separating them to maintain an artistic focus. When it comes to frames, both a cohesive look with identical frames and an eclectic mix of different frames can work, depending on the desired aesthetic and the variety of the art itself. If the art collection is diverse in color and medium, coordinating frames can provide a unifying element. Spacing is another subjective aspect of gallery wall design. A more casual arrangement might use three to four inches between pieces, while a more structured, intentional look often involves two inches. Designers suggest starting with a two-inch spacing and adjusting as needed, noting that closer spacing (down to 1.5 inches) can be suitable for smaller areas. While the selection of art is significant, the actual hanging process can be the most challenging part. Many professionals recommend hiring an art hanger for precision and to avoid wall damage. For those undertaking a DIY approach, several tips are offered: first, arrange the art on the floor to visualize the layout and spacing, taking a photo for reference. Second, use paper or cardboard templates, taping them to the wall to experiment with different arrangements without making permanent holes. Third, begin by hanging the largest or most significant pieces, then build out the rest of the collection around them. Alternatively, one can start with a central piece and expand outward in all directions. Ultimately, gallery walls offer a powerful means of infusing personality and creativity into a living space. Their enduring appeal stems from their ability to tell a story, spark curiosity, and captivate viewers. By embracing varied elements and experimenting with arrangements, individuals can create a gallery wall that brings beauty, interest, and a sense of wonder to their home, reflecting their unique taste and journey. #GalleryWalls #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ArtCollection #DecoratingIdeas #WallArt #DesignTips #PersonalStyle #EclecticDecor

The Shaker kitchen, originating in the 1700s with the Shakers (formerly Quakers), embodies an ethos of functionality, simplicity, and practicality. This design philosophy translated directly into their interiors, with the kitchen style becoming one of the most enduring and recognizable. Shaker kitchens are characterized by their simple, clean lines, dove-tail joints, and intricate detailing on cabinet doors, allowing for adaptability between contemporary and classic aesthetics through updates to fixtures, fittings, and colors. Despite the emergence of more modern looks, the question remains whether Shaker kitchens continue to hold their ground in current interior design trends. Interior design experts generally agree that Shaker kitchens maintain their relevance due to their timeless appeal and versatility. Amy Dalrymple, founder and creative director of Dalrymple Studio, emphasizes that the classic style of Shaker kitchens is inherently timeless and will not age. She suggests that the longevity of the kitchen's style depends more on the finishes chosen. While some kitchen colors may date quickly, darker hues like maroon, green, and navy tend to have a more enduring appeal. Dalrymple also highlights the importance of investing in high-quality fixtures and fittings, such as handles and splashback tiles, as these elements can significantly influence the perceived age of the design. Paul O'Leary, co-founder of deVOL Kitchens, speaks to the extraordinary versatility of the Shaker kitchen. He notes that the design has transcended its humble origins to adorn showrooms globally and is favored by clients across continents. O'Leary points out that Shaker kitchens can range from understated elegance with linen colors, wooden worktops, and painted knobs, to show-stopping glamour when finished in black with burnished bronze handles and quartz or copper worktops. This adaptability, he states, was beyond their initial predictions, making it their bestselling range. Tom Rutt, founder of TR Studio, reinforces the idea that Shaker kitchens are a worthwhile investment due to their timeless style and longevity, crucial considerations for a costly kitchen project. He explains that the core Shaker style can be adapted to suit any aesthetic, ensuring it remains relevant and does not date. Rutt cites a project where a navy blue Shaker kitchen was paired with contemporary brass fixtures, sleek Carrara marble, and Crittall Style glazing, creating a balanced blend of traditional elegance and modern freshness. Tom Kennedy and Jamie Watkins, founders of Divine Savages, highlight the Shaker kitchen's inherent flexibility, which allows for easy updates. They suggest that refreshing tired-looking Shaker cupboards with a new coat of paint and statement kitchen wallpaper can instantly transform the space, giving it a more modern and personalized feel. By selecting a core color from the wallpaper and matching it to the cabinet paint, a cohesive and updated look can be achieved, moving the kitchen from clinical to homely. Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr, further emphasizes the versatility of Shaker-style kitchens, noting their clean lines and unadorned aesthetic make them suitable for various design schemes, from traditional to contemporary. He adds that the design's strength lies in its ability to accommodate any color choice, from jet black to coral, ensuring a fabulous and adaptable outcome. In essence, Shaker kitchens are not merely 'on trend' but are a classic foundation that can be continuously updated and customized to suit evolving preferences, ensuring their enduring presence in interior design. #ShakerKitchens #InteriorDesignTrends #KitchenDesign #TimelessStyle #HomeDecor #KitchenCabinets #DesignVersatility #ClassicDesign

Glassware, historically considered less significant than ceramics, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, driven by a renewed appreciation for its aesthetic and historical value. Collector Mark Hill notes the puzzling disparity in value and scholarly attention between glass and ceramics, despite glass's enduring appeal. Mid-century glassware, particularly pieces from Murano, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, the UK, the US, and Czechoslovakia, remains highly sought after. This era showcased a wide range of styles, from Murano's elaborate, kaleidoscopic designs using ancient techniques like murrine to the modernist simplicity and nature-inspired colors favored by Finnish designers such as Alvar and Aino Aalto with their iconic Savoy vase, and Timo Sarpaneva's textured Finlandia glassware. These designers often influenced each other, with British designers like Geoffrey Baxter drawing inspiration from Scandinavian aesthetics, incorporating natural textures into his designs. The international studio-glass movement, initiated in the 1960s by American artists like Harvey Littleton, democratized glassmaking by enabling individual artists to produce pieces in smaller furnaces, leading to more expressive works. Contemporary homeware brands are now channeling this mid-century aesthetic, exemplified by Danish brand Hay's Splash vase, which utilizes techniques like rolling molten glass over colored fragments. While the visual appeal of glass is a significant draw, current trends also reflect an interest in authentic craftsmanship, a sentiment highlighted by the Netflix series "Blown Away," which showcased the skill and drama of glassblowing. This show also brought attention to the increasing number of women entering the previously male-dominated field of glassmaking. Modern glass artists, such as Deborah Czeresko, the winner of "Blown Away," are also using their craft to explore conceptual and political themes, addressing issues like feminism and environmentalism through installations. Designers like Erwan and Ronan Bouroullec experiment with glass for architectural and conceptual pieces, while artists like Jochen Holz utilize techniques like lamp-working to create unique, asymmetrical glassware in vibrant hues. The industry is also evolving to incorporate more environmentally friendly practices. Manufacturers such as Japanese brand Sugahara and H&M Home are developing ranges from recycled glass and employing energy-saving production methods. British artist Allister Malcolm uses waste lead crystal, reuses offcuts, and powers his studio with solar panels. The "market for craft" report indicates a significant increase in the value of sales for individual glass pieces in England. Emerging trends include the growing popularity of colored glass, as observed by Turkish brand Nude, and a movement towards mismatched sets in tableware, offering greater freedom in design and color, as noted by SCP owner Sheridan Coakley. Technological advancements like 3D printing are enabling more intricate designs, while traditional handcrafted methods, such as lost-wax casting, remain vital for artists like Angela Jarman, ensuring the continued evolution and appreciation of glamorous glassware. #GlasswareDesign #MidCenturyModern #ArtGlass #HomewareTrends #SustainableDesign #Glassblowing #Craftsmanship #InteriorDecoration #NordicDesign

Curved couches have been a prominent trend in interior design for several years, leading to questions about their longevity and whether they remain a worthwhile investment in 2024. Interior designers overwhelmingly affirm that curved couches are a lasting style, transcending fleeting trends to become a classic. This assessment is based on several factors, including their aesthetic versatility, functional benefits in space planning, and historical precedents. One of the primary reasons for the enduring appeal of curved couches is their ability to make spaces appear larger and more inviting. According to New York-based designer Allison Garcy, curved furniture offers a resourceful way to enhance spatial perception and create cozy seating arrangements. The intentional asymmetry of curved pieces adds visual interest without overwhelming a room, which is particularly beneficial for smaller or open-plan living areas. This functional advantage contrasts with the rigid lines of traditional rectangular sofas, which can sometimes make a room feel more constrained. Curved shapes naturally guide the eye, contributing to a sense of fluidity and openness in an interior. Beyond their functional benefits, curved couches also reflect a broader cultural shift in design philosophy. There is a growing movement away from overly curated, minimalist, or static interiors towards a celebration of authenticity and personal expression. Curved furniture, especially when upholstered in varied colors and patterns beyond the popular white bouclé and neutral velvets, allows homeowners to inject unique personality and warmth into their living spaces. This trend signifies a move towards more expressive and less rigid design choices, where furniture serves as a reflection of individual taste rather than just adherence to current fads. The choice of upholstery material plays a significant role in determining the long-term relevance of a curved couch; opting for less trendy fabrics can help ensure its timelessness. Designer Kathy Kuo highlights the versatility of curved sofas in adapting to different interior styles. She notes that they can seamlessly integrate into both modern and cozy aesthetics, offering a visual statement that is both contemporary and organically inspired. The key to their lasting appeal lies in selecting a well-crafted piece with high-quality upholstery in a versatile color. This ensures that the sofa retains its elegance and functionality regardless of evolving design preferences, making it a reliable choice for diverse interior schemes. The historical context of curved furniture further solidifies its status as a classic. Jennifer Walter, founder of Folding Chair Design, points out that curved sofas have existed since ancient Egyptian times and were notably embraced by Italian designers in the 1950s and 1960s, as well as by figures like Vladimir Kagan in the 1970s. This rich history demonstrates that the curved form is not merely a contemporary trend but a recurring design element that has been adapted across different eras. Its association with mid-century modern design, characterized by subtle lines and organic forms, particularly appeals to modernists and those seeking a blend of classic and contemporary elements. In terms of spatial arrangement, curved couches excel in creating better circulation within a room. Their flowing lines can soften the rigid angles of square rooms and other furnishings, establishing a harmonious balance. Designers often recommend floating curved sofas away from walls to maximize their visual impact and improve traffic flow. However, careful consideration is required for complementary pieces like coffee tables and chairs to ensure that the entire arrangement looks cohesive from all angles. This thoughtful placement allows curved sofas to act as central, sculptural elements that enhance the overall design and functionality of a living space. While the consensus among designers leans towards the enduring nature of curved couches, some caution against trend-driven purchases. Designer Julie Anne Burch advises prioritizing quality, timeless pieces over those that might quickly become dated. This perspective suggests that while the curved form itself may be classic, the specific iterations or popular interpretations of the trend could have a shorter shelf life. Ultimately, the decision to invest in a curved couch should be driven by personal preference and how well the piece integrates into one's existing interior design style. If a homeowner genuinely loves the aesthetic and it complements their space, its status as “on trend” becomes less critical, affirming that true classics resonate beyond fleeting popularity. #InteriorDesign #CurvedCouches #FurnitureTrends #HomeDecor #LivingRoomDesign #SpacePlanning #Upholstery #ClassicDesign #DesignLongevity