Kit Kemp Talks How to Bring Color, Calm and Mythical Creatures into Your Room

Artist Stephanie Dillon and her husband, Reilly, were captivated by a model home in Eden Prairie, which boasted a blend of whitewashed shiplap and shakes on its exterior, creating a timeless and airy aesthetic. The interior featured light-filled communal spaces, each with a distinct character, moving away from conventional floorplans. The color scheme ranged from calming charcoals and pale neutrals to deep greens and rich terra-cotta, evoking a European atmosphere. Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang, owner of West Bay Homes and the designer behind the model, drew inspiration from her travels to Paris, characterizing the style as French contemporary farmhouse. She envisioned the kitchen as a French pastry shop, integrating multiple layers of meticulously detailed materials throughout the 5,000-square-foot residence. The kitchen's design incorporates three types of glazed tiles for the backsplashes, with a small hexagonal tile chosen for its light-reflecting properties, contributing to an elevated visual experience. Dillon, an acrylic and mixed-media artist known for painting her emotions, found a kindred spirit in Vogelgesang, whose design philosophy also prioritized passion and feeling. Dillon retained Vogelgesang to complete the interior design of their new home. The designer expressed enthusiasm for incorporating Dillon's extensive rug collection. Elements like shiplap and painted charcoal, seen on the exterior, were repeated inside on the basement's fireplace wall and the vaulted ceiling of a lounge area adjacent to the kitchen, along with charcoal-colored square tiles extending from counter to ceiling in the kitchen backsplash. This repetition of color ensures cohesiveness and a holistic progression throughout the home, where all environmental elements relate to one another. Vogelgesang skillfully managed the abundance of materials, preventing a busy or cluttered appearance, much like Dillon blends colors on her canvases. Some design choices stand out, others recede, and some shimmer, collectively defining the mood of each space. The materials coalesce into a balanced and proportionate composition, resulting in a home tailored for an artist. Vogelgesang aims to create spaces that are timeless and elegant without being overly delicate or cost-prohibitive. The lower-level bar area features charcoal shiplap around the fireplace, painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Dorian Gray, and steps down into a sunken media room, showcasing the designer’s preferred brass and gray combination. Brass hardware also adorns the front entry doors. Light fixtures, including those from Mitzi on the library ladder, were strategically chosen. The unexpected entry leads to a "dining hall" that functions as a grand foyer, as described by Vogelgesang. This space features nine-inch-wide-plank white oak floors laid in a herringbone pattern, with ceiling beams bisecting its soaring height, allowing ample natural light. The built-in bar features a backsplash of alternating light and dark neutral tiles, custom cabinetry with dental molding, and a marble sink skirt. Open shelving in the kitchen displays two sizes of backsplash tiles from The Tile Shop, with custom alder wood cabinetry finished with a clear whitewashed stain and brass hardware for an enhanced shimmer. The kitchen, inspired by Parisian pastry shops, includes two islands for ease of navigation, with only one housing a sink to allow for uninterrupted dining on the other. The mudroom boasts large-format heated tiles combined with white oak cabinetry, finished in a whitewash stain, offering an industrial concrete look harmonized with French country cabinetry. A basement guest bath incorporates vibrant color through whimsical floral tiles from The Tile Shop on one wall and Sherwin-Williams’s Perfect Periwinkle on the adjacent wall. The library features a bold mix of Sherwin-Williams paints: Canyon Clay on the walls and Gauntlet Gray in a high-gloss enamel finish on the moldings and doors, complemented by chartreuse chairs. A wide-plank whitewashed cedar wall on the rear deck provides privacy. The prep kitchen off the mudroom embraces color with Waverly Classics wallpaper by York, cabinets painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Green Onyx, and a hammered copper sink, showcasing how personal touches can enhance practical areas. The powder room dazzles with an antiqued mirrored glass tile wall from The Tile Shop, a custom white oak vanity with a marble shelf, and Savoy House sconces. The floors throughout the home incorporate patterned ceramic tiles from The Tile Shop. The home's floor plan, while a traditional rambler, diverges into an unconventional layout where the front entry opens into a vaulted foyer and dining room, serving as a pass-through to the kitchen and great room. #HomeStyle #InteriorDesign #HomeTours #FrenchContemporaryFarmhouse #CustomCabinetry #TileDesign #ArtisticHome #ArchitecturalDetails #EuropeanInfluence

The article introduces Inner Child, a home decor brand founded by Michelle Pham, which specializes in colorful, handmade, maximalist decor. The author, Tori Polizzotto Jones, shares her personal journey from a minimalist aesthetic to an appreciation for maximalism, influenced by sentimental family heirlooms. This shift in personal style led her to discover Inner Child, a brand that resonates with her newfound love for vibrant and expressive home furnishings. Michelle Pham, the founder of Inner Child, explains her inspiration for starting the brand. She observed a gap in the U.S. market for accessible, handmade textiles and crafts, which are often found only through extensive travel. Her aim was to bring these unique, artisanal items to a broader audience. Inner Child's products are distinguished by their 100% handmade nature, encompassing fabrics, patterns, and textures. The brand offers a variety of home linens, including blockprint tablecloths, napkins, placemats, and table runners. Additionally, Inner Child has developed a sustainable practice by creating recycled paper goods from leftover cotton textile production. The brand's name, 'Inner Child,' reflects Pham's philosophy that joyful and whimsical decor should not be outgrown. She notes that while adult tastes often lean towards muted, minimalist palettes, children instinctively gravitate towards color and experimentation. Inner Child seeks to reintroduce this playful approach into adult homes, encouraging consumers to embrace delightful and colorful items. The brand continuously innovates, transforming new design ideas into stitched realities quickly to meet consumer desires for vibrant home aesthetics. Among Inner Child's bestsellers are the Ocean Wave Waste Bin, made from hand-marbled and block-printed recycled cotton papers. This collapsible, sustainably made bin serves both as a waste receptacle and a chic storage solution. Another popular item is the Araminta Toiletry Bag, available individually or in sets of three. These bags are designed for functionality, featuring four inner pockets and a wipeable plastic liner, with fabric hand-block printed by an eighth-generation artisan team. The Purple & Blue Checkered Reversible Sujani Quilt is another standout, crafted by one of only two remaining families globally practicing the Sujani weaving technique. These cotton-filled quilts take over 16 hours to handloom and offer a unique 'puff pillow' effect. Pham's inspiration stems from her childhood experiences, including reading extensively about crafts and textiles, and traveling widely in her twenties, which exposed her to diverse crafts and ways of living. Her mother, a talented seamstress, also instilled in her a deep appreciation for colors, patterns, and fabrics from an early age. Living in New York City further provides daily inspiration from fashion and people's choices. Pham also sheds light on the realities of running a small business with handmade products. She single-handedly manages all aspects of Inner Child, from design and production to warehousing, shipping, and marketing. This hands-on approach has given her comprehensive mastery over her business operations, from recognizing ideal shipping boxes to understanding fabric compositions and maintaining daily communication with artisans. Despite the immense workload, she finds the work highly rewarding, emphasizing that it is a constant, demanding endeavor rather than a typical nine-to-five job. The brand's core message is to promote the accessibility of handmade items and to encourage adults to embrace joyful and whimsical home decor that allows for self-expression and happiness, regardless of age. #HomeDecor #MaximalistStyle #HandmadeProducts #SmallBusiness #MichellePham #InnerChild #TextileArt #SustainableDesign #Entrepreneurship

The way a home is decorated significantly impacts mental health and emotional well-being, extending beyond mere aesthetics to create a sanctuary. Interior design draws on powerful psychological influences related to perceptions of color, nature, organization, light, space, and visual appeal. Danielle Mathews, co-owner of Reborn Renovations, explains how specific interior styles can influence emotional states, offering insights into curating living spaces that foster relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. This understanding empowers individuals to transform their homes into environments that actively support their psychological health. Color plays a crucial role in mood regulation. Cool colors such as blue, green, and lavender are known for their calming effects, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety. In contrast, warm colors like red can stimulate energy and intensity. Thoughtful color selection for walls, furnishings, and accents can thus create a desired emotional atmosphere within a room, promoting tranquility or vibrancy as needed. Strategic use of color can turn a chaotic space into a peaceful retreat or an uninspiring room into a dynamic area for activity and engagement. Incorporating natural elements into home decor can significantly reduce stress and promote relaxation. Materials such as wood and stone, along with plants and nature-inspired patterns, bring the outdoors in, fostering a sense of connection to nature. This biophilic design approach creates a more calming environment, enhancing mental restoration and overall comfort. Even small additions, like a potted plant or a piece of natural wood furniture, can make a difference in cultivating a serene atmosphere. Organization and cleanliness are paramount for mental well-being. Clutter and disorganization can be overwhelming, contributing to increased stress levels. Conversely, a well-organized and functional space with adequate storage solutions promotes a sense of calm, control, and clarity. By reducing visual noise and creating a logical flow, an organized home minimizes mental fatigue and enhances daily efficiency, allowing occupants to feel more at peace and in command of their surroundings. Lighting, especially natural daylight, profoundly affects mood, vitality, and sleep quality. Maximizing natural light through design choices, such as large windows, light-colored curtains, and open layouts, can significantly improve psychological health. Where natural light is limited, strategic use of artificial lighting can mimic natural patterns, providing warmth and brightness that positively influence circadian rhythms and emotional states. Proper lighting reduces eye strain and creates inviting, comfortable spaces. Finally, the layout of a home plays a vital role in emotional comfort. Open and spacious layouts, free from excessive clutter, tend to facilitate better moods compared to cramped or cluttered environments. Thoughtful furniture arrangement and spatial planning can create a sense of openness, making rooms feel larger and more inviting. This thoughtful approach to layout and furniture placement can elevate emotions, reduce feelings of confinement, and encourage a sense of freedom and ease within the home. #HomeDecor #MentalHealth #InteriorDesign #StressReduction #EmotionalWellbeing #ColorPsychology #BiophilicDesign #HomeOrganization #NaturalLighting

The article showcases Liz Tew's favorite room, highlighting her approach to creating a relaxing and inviting living space. The design centers on a serene color palette, utilizing Benjamin Moore's Pale Oak for the walls, which sets a calming foundation for the room's aesthetic. This choice of wall color contributes significantly to the overall tranquil ambiance of the living area. Several key design elements are incorporated to enhance the room's visual appeal and comfort. Woven raffia wall hangings are prominently featured, adding texture and a natural, organic touch to the space. These hangings are noted as a growing trend in home decor, indicating a contemporary design sensibility. The integration of art pieces is another significant aspect of the room's design, with a collection from artists Annie Howell, Katie Hinshelwood, Grace Pouch, and Whitney Stoddard creating a cohesive and visually stimulating grouping. This curated selection of art reflects a thoughtful approach to personalizing the space. Natural elements are strategically used to introduce warmth and visual interest. A wooden circular mirror serves as a natural texture element, providing a contrast to the cooler tones in the room and adding a sense of organic elegance. Furthermore, a tall fiddle leaf fig tree is positioned in a corner, adding height and bringing a touch of nature indoors, which contributes to the room's freshness and vitality. Textiles play a crucial role in enhancing the comfort and style of the living space. The couch features throw pillows by artist Laura Park, which introduce patterns and colors that complement the overall design. These pillows are paired with thick banded curtains, creating a harmonious and polished look. The attention to detail extends to smaller accents, such as a beaded decoration on a vintage door knob, illustrating how minor elements can contribute to the room's character and charm. A particularly notable art piece in the room is "ÒLarry LlamaÓ" by local artist Marian Pouch. This painting not only serves as a focal point but also connects the interior space to the local art scene, as a larger version of the piece adorns the Camperdown Plaza in downtown Greenville. This inclusion underscores a blend of personal taste with an appreciation for local culture. Overall, Liz Tew's favorite room is characterized by a carefully balanced combination of calming colors, natural textures, curated art, and thoughtful decorative details. The design emphasizes creating an inviting and aesthetically pleasing environment through a harmonious selection of furnishings and decor, reflecting a contemporary yet timeless approach to interior design. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #LivingRoom #PaintColors #HomeStyling #ArtCollection #NaturalElements #TextileDesign #GreenvilleHomes

Art serves as a transformative element in home décor, offering a means to refresh living spaces and reflect personal tastes without extensive redecoration, particularly beneficial for renters. Experts suggest that a strategic selection and display of artworks can revitalize a home's ambiance, evoking emotions or establishing specific moods. For instance, abstract art with loose, expressionistic marks can create a romantic atmosphere, while a more graphic style can impart a modern, urban feel. The flexibility of art allows for periodic reconfigurations, mirroring how public galleries re-hang their collections, providing a renewed perspective within a home. Practical considerations for hanging art include using small nails for easy patching in rental properties or opting for leaning art against ledges, book stacks, mantelpieces, or consoles for a casual display. When integrating new art, it should complement existing furniture and homeware rather than compete with them. This can be achieved by placing art alongside items with similar aesthetic qualities, such as echoing patterns in a rug or the curves of ceramics, or by creating juxtapositions with personal ephemera like postcards or family photos. Wall-hung art can also provide a visual counterpoint to bulky furniture, acting as a focal point that balances the weight of larger pieces like sofas. Furthermore, carefully chosen art can unify a room by linking disparate design elements, such as contrasting materials or colors, ensuring a cohesive look. Artworks can reflect or complement tones present in fabrics or wood, thereby integrating the room's overall design. Beyond traditional wall art, incorporating usable art, such as art-themed coasters and placemats, can make art acquisition and display more approachable and enjoyable. Artists like Selina Snow demonstrate how personal art collections, including works by family members, travel souvenirs, and her own creations, can be curated against a neutral backdrop to create a unique and personal environment. Snow emphasizes the importance of linking colors and motifs in a way that enhances individual pieces without causing them to blend indistinguishably. She advocates for professional framing for original artworks to ensure their preservation and suggests installing UV protective window film in bright areas. Sculpture also has a place in home interiors, extending beyond gallery settings. Instead of relying solely on tables or plinths, sculptures can be displayed on affordable free-floating shelves at varying heights to create engaging domestic arrangements. For those looking to start an art collection, visiting art exhibitions, auctions, and open-studio events is recommended to discover art that resonates personally. Many galleries offer a 'try before you buy' service, allowing potential buyers to see how art integrates into their home environment at different times of day and in various locations. Before making permanent hanging decisions, it is advisable to experiment with configurations by laying pieces out on the floor. Ultimately, the selection of art should be deeply personal, reflecting what truly speaks to the individual, whether adhering to a specific theme or simply choosing pieces based on intuition, as there is no right or wrong approach to art selection. #HomeDecor #ArtDisplay #InteriorDesign #ArtCollection #LivingSpace #HomeStyling #ArtConsultancy #RoomTransformation #PersonalExpression

The article discusses five major wellness interior design trends predicted for 2025 by interior designer and biophilic trailblazer Oliver Heath. It emphasizes the significant impact homes have on mood and well-being, especially as they become more multifunctional spaces for living and working. The first trend highlights the integration of technology and materials that mimic nature indoors. This involves utilizing elements that bring natural patterns, textures, and colors into the home, along with technology like subtle lighting systems, air purifiers, and mechanical ventilation and heat recovery (MVHR) systems to enhance indoor air quality. Oliver Heath stresses the benefits of natural elements for relaxation, de-stressing, and recuperation. The second trend focuses on adopting nature's color palette. The article explains that colors found in the natural world, from autumn's burnt oranges and reds to spring's sunshine yellows and calming greens, will heavily influence decor choices. These colors are believed to evoke positive experiences and promote a relaxed mood when incorporated into home interiors. Mini green walls represent the third key trend. Initially seen in outdoor gardens and large corporate spaces, these vertical gardens are now making their way into homes, particularly for city dwellers with limited outdoor space. Oliver Heath anticipates a rise in modular indoor green walls, which can be created using compact plants or even living wall murals, to add instant visual impact and a connection to nature. Fourthly, home growing systems, specifically smart hydroponic systems, are identified as a growing trend for 2025. These systems allow individuals to cultivate herbs, fruits, vegetables, and flowers indoors year-round, regardless of external space. Hydroponics, which involves growing plants in nutrient-rich water without soil, is presented as an accessible and efficient method for indoor gardening, providing fresh produce and greenery even in winter months. Finally, the article discusses the continuing importance of social spaces, both indoors and outdoors. Oliver Heath predicts an increase in rooms designed for communal activities, with dining tables becoming central to open-plan kitchen living areas as social hubs. Additionally, outdoor areas are expected to be utilized more holistically for year-round relaxation and entertaining, with a focus on covered spaces that enable enjoyment in various weather conditions, thereby supporting physical and mental well-being through natural daylight exposure. #WellnessInteriorDesign #BiophilicDesign #HomeDecorTrends #NatureInspiredHome #IndoorGardening #SmartHomeSystems #SocialSpaces #ColorPsychology

The article presents a curated list of 32 products designed for individuals who prefer an eclectic home style, emphasizing unique and conversation-starting pieces. This selection of home decor items caters to a diverse range of tastes, moving away from minimalist aesthetics towards more vibrant and quirky designs. Each product is accompanied by a brief description highlighting its unique features and potential placement within a home. Among the featured items are a "this actually is my first rodeo" needlepoint pillow, offering a humorous and personal touch to a living space, and a "Live Laugh Limp Bizkit" banner, intended for those with a specific musical taste. Decorative accents include a brass "poop deck" sign for a touch of bathroom humor, an animal-themed paper holder that adds whimsy and can spark conversation, and a pair of astronaut bookends for enthusiasts of space-themed decor. Lighting options are also eclectic, such as an iridescent shell lamp, designed to bring a unique mood to a room with its removable, battery-powered pearl light, and a tulip floor lamp, described as perfect for adding character despite its potentially "tacky" appearance. For customizable ambiance, app-controlled LED rope lights are suggested, allowing for creative wall designs or playful messages. A candle warmer lamp with a floral shade is presented as an alternative to overhead lighting for those who prefer softer illumination. Practical yet playful items include a giant Lego storage drawer, which doubles as versatile furniture and storage for various knickknacks, and a funky floor-length mirror, intended to enhance selfies and serve as a popular talking point. Nostalgic elements are covered with a working lip-shaped phone, celebrated more for its decorative appeal than its function. Seating is addressed with a duck-shaped seat cushion, aiming to provide comfort and a pop of color to a workspace. The article also features a cow print ottoman with animalistic details, suitable for adding a whimsical touch to a living room or nursery. A hanging disco ball planter is highlighted for those who wish to infuse their home with a disco vibe, and a mushroom shelf provides a unique way to display small treasures. Finally, a Rubik's cube tissue box cover offers a playful illusion of intellectual prowess, and an ultra-unique vinyl stand made from a refurbished newspaper box serves as a functional and environmentally conscious piece of furniture for record collectors. Each product is presented with enthusiastic endorsements, often including customer reviews that underscore the item's appeal and practicality for an eclectic home environment. The list aims to inspire individuals to embrace a more personalized and expressive approach to home decoration. #EclecticHomeDecor #HomeDecor #UniqueFinds #QuirkyHome #InteriorDesign #HomeStyle #StatementPieces #AffiliateMarketing

Halloween, a season synonymous with mystery, enchantment, and a touch of the macabre, offers a unique wellspring of inspiration for designers and design aficionados. This article delves into a curated selection of home furnishings and accessories that embody the captivating essence of Halloween without resorting to overt, novelty decorations. Instead, these pieces seamlessly integrate dark, luxurious aesthetics, intriguing textures, and enigmatic motifs into everyday design, offering an elegant nod to the holiday's captivating allure. One featured collaboration, Bois Paradis by Roche Bobois and Christian Lacroix Maison, exemplifies this approach with its "Cueillette" print. This design showcases botanical elements in deep green hues against a stark black background, applied to velvet sofas and chairs. The result is a collection that is both opulent and subtly mysterious, evoking the rich and somewhat unsettling beauty often associated with Halloween themes. The Gambalunga candleholder, designed by Formafantasma for Roll & Hill, presents a fascinating study in balance and illusion. Its slender, gravity-defying form creates an impression of weightlessness, as if suspended by an unseen force. The thoughtful placement of its circular base ensures practicality by catching melting wax, marrying an ethereal aesthetic with functional design. This piece embodies the delicate balance between the fantastical and the practical, making it a sophisticated addition to any space. Calico Wallpaper's Night Collection in Slate offers another sophisticated interpretation of dark aesthetics. Inspired by the opulent yet moody Hall of Mirrors at Versailles, this wallpaper emphasizes contrast and depth through a black background interwoven with gold and white veining. The pattern subtly mimics the intricate, almost web-like structures, adding a layer of luxurious mystery to walls. This design provides an opportunity to transform a room with a dramatic and refined visual statement, perfect for an accent wall or an entire space. Breaking away from traditional garden aesthetics, the Swedish brand Garden Glory introduces a collection of gardening tools and outdoor accessories with a distinctly edgy and bewitching vibe. Their offerings include colored garden hoses with brass or leopard print nozzles, claw-shaped solid brass hose holders, and glam garden gloves and shovels. These items blend functionality with a playful, darker aesthetic, demonstrating that even utilitarian objects can contribute to a home's overall design narrative and capture a bit of Halloween's whimsical darkness. The Blackline Collection of cutting boards from Blackcreek Mercantile & Trading Co. challenges conventional notions of kitchenware. By utilizing a natural reactive process on white oak, the collection achieves a distinctive, deep black finish derived from the wood's tannic acid. This method creates a durable, food-safe dye that imparts a mysterious and impactful aesthetic to an otherwise mundane item, inviting intrigue and conversation. Finally, the Crux Pendant from Allied Maker offers an evocative lighting solution. This hand-blown fixture features a smoky, clear-to-black ombré bell that encases a floating glass sphere of light. The design's inherent mystery and moodiness make it a striking focal point, particularly when contrasted against lighter walls, further emphasizing its dark and ethereal qualities. Each of these pieces collectively demonstrates how to integrate subtle Halloween-inspired elegance into interior design, celebrating the holiday's spirit through sophisticated and artistic applications. #HalloweenDecor #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign #LuxuryDecor #FurnitureDesign #WallpaperDesign #LightingFixtures #GardenAccessories #Kitchenware

The article highlights the increasing importance of bedrooms as calming retreats, especially following a year marked by heightened anxiety. Designers emphasize creating a sanctuary-like atmosphere in this personal space. Pamela Shamshiri of Studio Shamshiri notes a shift towards using color to influence mood and emotions. Instead of sterile white, the studio now incorporates muted and calm hues, such as pale blues, yellows, and deep indigos, to introduce warmth and a nurturing feel. Shamshiri also mentions the use of curved transitions from walls to ceilings to eliminate sharp corners, contributing to a more calming aesthetic. Celerie Kemble, a New York City-based designer, echoes the sentiment about avoiding harsh angles by advocating for curtains that soften window casings. She suggests that a draped room promotes a greater sense of calm. Furthermore, Kemble recommends wallpaper or wall upholstery to unify walls and make angles recede, creating a softer, more enveloping environment. For enhanced privacy and intimacy within the bedroom, she advises considering canopy beds with curtains. Beyond aesthetics, the article stresses the significance of tactile elements like plush upholstery and soothing textiles. Chanae Richards, founder of Oloro Interiors, introduces the benefit of integrating plants into bedroom design. Plants not only offer a visual connection to nature but also contribute to a healthier indoor environment by removing toxins from the air. Richards specifically recommends snake plants for bedrooms. The article also delves into the role of lighting in fostering a serene atmosphere. Dan Fink, a New York City designer, suggests using sheers instead of blackout shades to allow modulated natural light into the room, supporting the circadian rhythm and uplifting the spirit. He emphasizes the importance of making bedrooms beautiful in both morning and evening, highlighting how sheers create a glow that celebrates the start of a new day. For artificial lighting, Fink advises against relying solely on ceiling fixtures. Instead, he recommends deploying several lamps controlled by dimmers to provide soft, ambient light, particularly for bedside reading, which contributes to a restful mood. The overarching goal for designers is to create bedrooms that are so inviting that individuals desire to spend more time in them. Studio Shamshiri, for instance, is increasingly incorporating meditation spaces into its bedroom designs. Similarly, Fink often adds small desks or settees, catering to the idea of the bedroom as a multifunctional, yet primarily restorative, haven. Kemble reinforces this perspective, describing her bedroom as a "special zone where nobody can get to you," a favored spot for relaxation with a book or television.

This article highlights the vibrant and personality-filled Brooklyn home of creative director Dan Pelosi, offering a glimpse into his design philosophy centered around color, houseplants, and creating a space conducive to entertaining. Pelosi, who initially lived in the West Village, relocated to Brooklyn driven by the desire for a larger space, specifically a dining room, to host friends and pursue his passion for cooking. He discovered his current apartment, the upper two levels of a brownstone, through a friend's social media post and quickly secured the lease, recognizing it as the ideal setting for his vision. A central feature of Pelosi's home is a custom-designed dining table, built in collaboration with Brad Miller of Bronx Woodworks. Pelosi's design prioritized functionality, with inset legs to accommodate up to 14 guests comfortably, reflecting his love for communal dining. He intentionally collected various pairs of chairs, allowing guests to choose seating that best suits their comfort, fostering a democratic and inclusive dining experience. The dining area is further enhanced by a gallery wall showcasing a diverse collection of art, predominantly from friends and former classmates from the Rhode Island School of Design, emphasizing personal connection over anonymous aesthetics. Pelosi's approach to art placement is intuitive, creating a relaxed and imperfect arrangement that aligns with his personal style. The home's comfortable and colorful atmosphere extends throughout. The living room serves as a serene retreat, furnished with a well-loved leather sofa, layered rugs, and an abundance of houseplants, creating a jungle-like ambiance. Pelosi's deliberate layering of rugs adds a tactile and luxurious feel to the space. The kitchen, a fresh remodel when Pelosi moved in, has been infused with color through additions like stools by Eric Trine and a vintage turquoise dome light fixture. It also features a "prop library" of color-coded serving ware and a wet bar setup, reflecting Pelosi's dedication to culinary arts and entertaining. The bathroom stands out as the only non-white room, painted a blush color that Pelosi notes creates a flattering glow. Pelosi's design ethos rejects the notion of a single "pop of color," instead embracing an entire home filled with vibrant hues and personal touches. His bedroom features a bench serving as a long nightstand, and a wall adorned with an inspiring collection of emotionally significant items, reminiscent of design school "swipe" walls. The guest bedroom, a cherished space, displays a quilt made by his mother, highlighting the sentimental value placed on personal items. Overall, Pelosi's home is a testament to his belief that a living space should be inspiring, relaxing, and a reflection of one's personal aesthetic and passions, especially in a world that can often feel isolating. He aims for his home to be a sanctuary where he and his friends feel comfortable and connected. #BrooklynHome #CreativeDirector #ColorInDesign #Houseplants #EntertainingSpace #CustomFurniture #ArtCollection #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor

Kim-Joy Hewlett, the beloved Bake Off star and cookbook author, has transformed her Leeds home into a vibrant, dopamine-filled living space, which she playfully describes as 'a giant cake I can live in.' Purchased in 2021 with her husband, Nabil Homsi, the house is a testament to her whimsical style, characterized by bold colors, fearless print-mixing, and quirky DIY touches. The journey into her home begins with a striking aqua green staircase, complemented by a yellow bannister, a zebra runner, and a clustered bubble-style light fixture. The lower walls are painted bubblegum pink, and a custom terrazzo floor evokes the appearance of sprinkles, setting an immediate tone of joy and energy. Kim-Joy's design philosophy prioritizes creating a 'wow' factor, particularly in the hallway, which she considers the most important space as it’s the first impression of her home. To achieve a double-height hallway, she made the unconventional decision to sacrifice an upstairs bedroom and relocate a bathroom. This bold structural change underscores her commitment to designing a space that is not only functional but also deeply personal and inspiring. Her approach reflects her broader worldview, encouraging fun and exuberance in everyday life, much like her animal-shaped bakes that brought her fame on The Great British Bake Off. For the renovation, Kim-Joy collaborated with Studio J Architects, who respected her vision and allowed her to take the lead. She utilized free online tools to develop floor plans and 3D walkthroughs, ensuring her specific needs—such as an instant boiling water tap and ample open shelving in the pantry—were met. The kitchen and dining areas are central to her home's charm. The dining room, designed for entertaining, features diverse seating options, including a swinging hanging egg chair. A butter-colored Kitchen Aid mixer takes pride of place on the island, reflecting her passion for baking. Kim-Joy and Nabil personally tiled the kitchen, learning from YouTube tutorials and opting for a black epoxy grout despite warnings about its difficulty to clean. The kitchen's bold green and pink cabinetry is harmonized by wood fluting and a subtle stone backsplash. An elegant arch separates the kitchen from a perfectly pink pantry, which Kim-Joy likens to a doll's house. This pantry holds her impressive collection of sprinkles, which visitors, especially children, often gravitate towards. Her affinity for bold colors extends beyond her home decor to her fashion and baking, with pink being a recurring choice when in doubt. A highlight of the dining area is a maximalist watercolor mural by artist Hazel Carruthers of Avalana Designs, depicting a jaguar in a jungle scene. Lighting and environmental comfort were also crucial considerations for Kim-Joy, who suffers from chronic migraines. She strategically tempered the garden's bright morning light with pale bamboo wood fluting in the kitchen and installed warm-toned colored bulbs throughout the house. To minimize noise, she placed the washing machine upstairs, away from the main living areas. Her living room features a neon orange loveseat, a favorite spot for her and her cats, Mochi and Blinky. This piece, along with a pink sofa, were internet finds, showcasing her knack for uncovering resale bargains. The guest bedroom boasts a circus-like brown and pink striped wall, created through a DIY project, while her primary bedroom features a pink and white checkerboard wallpaper. Despite the extensive renovations, Kim-Joy views her home as an ongoing project, constantly finding new ways to tweak and personalize it, embodying her belief in continuous creative engagement. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ColorfulInteriors #DIYHomeDecor #CelebrityHomes #WhimsicalDesign #KitchenDesign #Renovation #DopamineDecor

The article provides an intimate look into the Sunfish Lake home of antiques dealer Robert Riesberg and his wife, Christine Hartman, which doubles as both their residence and a by-appointment-only gallery for Riesberg's business. Their Federal-style house, built in 1925, is characterized by a blend of traditional design and warm hospitality, furnished with museum-quality 17th, 18th, and early 19th-century antiques, art, objects, and rugs. Riesberg, with over 50 years of experience, emphasizes buying pieces he would personally want to keep, noting that this passion drives his successful career. The home features a series of formal rooms, including a front parlor with a mahogany drum table, sideboard, and a 1760 cherry New England flip-top secretary desk, with walls painted in Benjamin Moore’s Rosy Apple. A light-filled formal dining room and gallery, added by Riesberg, is used for parties and family gatherings, showcasing French Louis XV rococo console tables with rare brèche d’alep marble from approximately 1760. The exterior of the home maintains its Federal-style architecture, while the kitchen, though the least formal space, is adorned with 18th-century Windsor chairs and Delft tiles depicting manganese figures from the same period. Creative design solutions are evident throughout, such as a small closet ingeniously converted into a walk-in bar with a Dutch door. The sunporch, featuring terrazzo floors and shelves filled with Delftware, opens to a grape arbor, offering a serene space. The fireplace mantel and paneling were custom-designed based on Connecticut fireplace patterns, symmetrically decorated with blue-and-white 18th-century Delftware. The central hallway boasts ash and walnut flooring modeled after traditional French parquetry, complemented by 19th-century oil landscapes, a late 18th-century portrait, and a Regency commode from around 1710. Riesberg’s study, designed with Connecticut inspiration, features millwork painted in a custom green and houses a substantial collection of books and catalogs on antiques, art, landscaping, and architecture. The article also includes five tips from Robert Riesberg and Christine Hartman for incorporating antiques into one's home. These tips encourage individuals to discover their personal taste by visiting various sources like museums and antique shops, and building a file of preferred items. They suggest taking inventory of existing belongings to identify pieces that don't align with one's aesthetic or function, thereby creating space for new acquisitions. The couple advocates for broadening one's scope beyond furnishing a room strictly by a singular period, encouraging the mixing of contemporary furnishings with antique gems to create a space that reflects individual taste and personality. Riesberg advises understanding the craftsmanship of antiques, particularly those made before the machine age (pre-1840), to appreciate their design details and value. Finally, they recommend taking a slow approach to building a collection, emphasizing that a few beautiful, well-chosen pieces are more valuable than a multitude of mediocre ones, and that truly beautiful homes evolve in stages. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #Antiques #FederalStyleHome #VintageDecor #HomeTours #LuxuryInteriors #CollectingAntiques

The entryway serves as a crucial transition point from the external world to the internal sanctuary of a home, influencing the overall mood and first impressions of a living space. It acts as a buffer between daily chaos and a calm domestic environment. A well-designed entryway should evoke a sense of peace, reduce stress, and instill a feeling of being comfortably at home upon entry. This is achieved through careful consideration of elements such as color schemes, storage solutions, seating, textiles, decor, mirrors, and lighting. Creating a relaxing entryway begins even before entering the house, with the front porch. A well-maintained and inviting porch, featuring comfortable seating, lush greenery, and subtle lighting, can set a welcoming tone. This outdoor extension of the home should reflect the interior's overall style, with features like a porch swing adding an intimate touch and fostering a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Inside the entryway, a light and breezy color scheme is recommended to promote tranquility. Muted, neutral tones such as soft beige, pale blue, or light gray are visually soothing and make the space feel more open and airy. These calming hues should be integrated into walls, furniture, and decor to achieve a cohesive and serene atmosphere. Effective storage is essential for maintaining a clutter-free entryway, which directly contributes to a peaceful home environment. Built-in storage or dedicated solutions for shoes, bags, and everyday items help to keep the space tidy and alleviate mental clutter. Incorporating elements like shoe baskets, enclosed cabinets, or hooks can significantly improve organization. Custom storage solutions, including vertical designs for narrow hallways or integrated seating with storage, can maximize space and flexibility. Adding a bench or a comfortable chair provides a functional spot for putting on or taking off shoes, while also enhancing the area's relaxing ambiance. Such seating can be further enhanced with pillows, soft fabrics, and blankets to elevate comfort. Incorporating naturally textured forms also contributes to a more peaceful and welcoming feel for both residents and guests. Textiles like front door curtains can introduce softness, elegance, and coziness to an entryway. These curtains can also serve practical purposes, such as insulating against drafts and providing privacy. Choosing insulating materials like wool and allowing for some pooling length can create a cocooning effect, reinforcing the sense of warmth and security. Personalized decor helps to infuse the entryway with warmth and character, reflecting the homeowner's style. This can include artwork, family photos, or statement pieces. Console tables can be styled with decorative accents like fresh flowers, scented candles, or unique dishes for keys and other small items. Integrating bookshelves or niches for books and art further personalizes the space. The chosen artwork should have a calming and positive effect. Mirrors are a versatile addition, bouncing natural light to create a perception of greater space and allowing for last-minute appearance checks. A statement mirror can add both functionality and decorative flair. To further enhance light, opening up sightlines with picture windows into adjacent rooms or using glass-paneled doors can visually connect the entryway to the rest of the house, making it feel larger and brighter. Finally, thoughtful lighting is crucial for establishing the right mood. Multiple light sources, including overhead fixtures, table lamps, and wall sconces, can create a layered and inviting ambiance. Table lamps on console tables offer a warm glow, providing an alternative to brighter overhead lights. Scented candles can also contribute to a relaxing atmosphere, greeting guests with a pleasant aroma and soft illumination. #EntrywayDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #RelaxingSpaces #ClutterFree #ColorPsychology #LightingDesign #PersonalizedDecor

In a world often dominated by minimalist trends, embracing kitsch in home decor offers a delightful antidote, infusing living spaces with joy and personality. Kitsch, often misunderstood, celebrates the unconventional and is characterized by vibrant, eye-catching colors such as bold pinks, zingy greens, sunny yellows, and electric blues. Incorporating these colors through elements like a brightly colored sofa or vividly patterned cushions can immediately elevate a room's mood. Patterns are fundamental to kitsch design, with polka dots, stripes, florals, and geometric shapes coexisting harmoniously. To prevent a cluttered feel, it is advised to select a cohesive color palette that allows diverse patterns to blend seamlessly. For example, a floral wallpaper can be effectively paired with striped curtains or polka dot cushions, provided the color scheme is unified. Experts in this style, such as House of Hackney founders Frieda Gormley and Javvy M Royle, are known for their bold, eclectic designs that skillfully merge traditional decor with modern flair, showcasing how to master this aesthetic without overdoing it. Kitsch often evokes a sense of nostalgia, drawing inspiration from past eras. Incorporating vintage furniture, retro accessories, and antique trinkets helps create a space that feels both familiar and unique. Items like old vinyl records, vintage cameras, and mid-century modern furniture are excellent choices for cultivating a kitsch-inspired ambiance. The key is to select pieces that exude a playful, glamorous, or dramatic feel, adding character and charm to the home. Art serves as another powerful medium for expressing this aesthetic. Vintage posters, pop art, and even framed comic strips can inject fun and personality into walls. Gallery walls, featuring various styles and sizes of art displayed together, are particularly effective. Additionally, quirky elements such as neon signs or collections of kitschy figurines can bring a smile to anyone’s face and enhance the overall whimsical atmosphere. Beyond aesthetics, kitsch contributes to creating cozy and inviting spaces. This involves selecting furniture designed for social interaction and comfort, complemented by soft textiles like throw blankets and plush rugs to add warmth. A well-designed reading nook, complete with a comfortable chair, a quirky lamp, and a stack of colorful books, can quickly become a beloved spot in the home. Ultimately, the essence of kitsch lies in its personal touch, encouraging individuals to decorate with items that hold sentimental value or reflect their unique personality. Whether these are souvenirs from travels, family heirlooms, or handmade crafts, these personal elements are what truly make a home joyful and welcoming through kitsch decor. #KitschDecor #HomeInteriors #EclecticStyle #VibrantColors #PatternMixing #VintageDecor #Nostalgia #PersonalTouch

The design process for Wren's room, the oldest daughter of the McGee family, incorporated her specific request for a white and gold color palette while aiming for a timeless and playful aesthetic. The room features a foundation of low-pile, soft "Sumana" carpet in "Sand" from Stanton, providing comfort suitable for a child's space. To address a lower ceiling and add visual interest, a statement wall was created. This wall features paneling on the bottom half, painted in Grey Owl by Benjamin Moore, balancing a cool tone with a warm, beige floral wallpaper from McGee & Co. on the upper section, introducing charm and femininity. A significant design challenge was an off-center window, which was rectified by integrating built-in bookshelves above a desk, extending into a window seat. This window seat includes a custom cushion from Etsy, a classic wicker sconce, and patterned pillows, collectively establishing a balanced and inviting focal point in the room. Wren's vintage desk chair adds a unique, personal touch to the study area. For the main furnishings, Wren's preference for white and gold was central. A white "Northcott" bed from McGee & Co. is flanked by gold sconces, reinforcing the chosen color scheme. The introduction of light pinks and blues, along with varied patterns and textures, contributes to a playful yet cohesive atmosphere. A white-reeded dresser, aligning with design elements found elsewhere in the McGee home, provides practical storage and visual continuity. This dresser is accessorized with an oversized textured lamp, a book basket, and faux greenery, completing a thoughtfully styled vignette. The adjoining bathroom was a collaborative effort, with the vanity custom-crafted by Killowen Cabinet Co. based on sketches detailing curved elements, flush inset drawers, and specific countertop designs. A vintage floral painting, a treasured find, became a central decorative piece, contrasting with Wren’s request for a white, gold, and pink bathroom. To fulfill this, terracotta tiles from Clé in a subtle vintage rose hue were chosen for a border and shower area, providing a touch of pink without being overly juvenile. Gold fixtures from Kohler Co., including a faucet and showerhead, complement the golden accents. Gold pill sconces from McGee & Co. and a silver, Venetian-style mirror are incorporated, blending modern and classic design elements effectively. This careful selection of materials and colors ensures the bathroom is both appealing to a child and adaptable as she grows. Overall, Wren's room and en-suite bathroom exemplify a design strategy that blends a child's personal preferences with sophisticated and enduring design choices, creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically rich. #KidsRoomDesign #BedroomDecor #BathroomDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #CustomFurnishings #Wallpaper #Lighting