Mad About The House's Kate Watson-Smyth reveals her interior design regrets

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

Kathryn M. Ireland, a renowned interior designer, discusses her unique approach to design, her career trajectory, and her philosophy on living. Raised in London and Scotland, Ireland accidentally entered the design world after people admired the aesthetic of her home. Her initial foray into interior design involved working with high-profile clients like Steve Martin and Caroline Kennedy, who were drawn to her "undecorated look." This style prioritizes comfort, family, and practicality over formal, traditional design elements, a philosophy exemplified by her decision not to design foyers and her appreciation for a living space that accommodates real life, such as children's building blocks in a living room. Ireland emphasizes the importance of functionality in design, particularly in smaller spaces like city apartments. She suggests innovative solutions such as "equipment garages" for exercise machines, transforming built-ins into discreet storage areas for items like Pelotons. The recent period of increased time spent at home has highlighted the need for deliberate contemplation of living spaces. Ireland recounts how this newfound stillness led her to reassess and enhance the functionality of her own guesthouse, identifying overlooked needs for storage. This introspection encourages individuals to thoughtfully consider their surroundings and identify areas for improvement. Her collaborative platform, The Perfect Room, reflects her vision for democratizing design. This website allows individuals to purchase curated rooms by their favorite designers or upload images for sourcing specific design elements. The platform aims to provide designers with royalties for their work and foster a collaborative environment in the design industry. Ireland's global lifestyle influences her work, as she divides her time between California and France, where she has transformed a farmhouse into a large guest retreat. This international perspective also informs her retreat business, which offers immersive experiences in locations like Marrakesh, the Cotswolds, and the Nile, focusing on camaraderie and personal reflection rather than just leisure. Ireland advocates for a relaxed and spontaneous approach to life and entertaining, contrasting it with the often-over-stylized portrayals of perfect living. She believes that real life is not a photo shoot and encourages simplicity in hosting, favoring casual meals and genuine connection over elaborate preparations. This extends to her personal preferences, as she often prefers cooking at home with friends over dining out, viewing her home as a sanctuary. She highlights the concept of "retreating at home," suggesting that individuals can create a getaway within their primary residence, reducing the need for additional properties and minimizing their carbon footprint. Her advice is to embrace the present space and make it feel like a cherished escape, reflecting her broader philosophy of living easily and authentically within one's surroundings. #InteriorDesign #KathrynMIreland #HomeDecor #UndecoratedStyle #ThePerfectRoom #DesignPhilosophy #HomeRetreat #FunctionalDesign

In anticipation of the return of TLC’s popular home design show, “Trading Spaces,” this article revisits some of the most memorable and, at times, disastrous room transformations from its original run. The show, known for its rapid makeovers and the often-unpredictable choices of its designers, frequently left homeowners with mixed emotions, ranging from delight to outright dismay. This compilation highlights 13 instances where design choices went awry, leading to shocked reactions and even tears from the homeowners. One recurring figure in these infamous makeovers is designer Hildi Santo-Tomas, whose unconventional and provocative approach often pushed the boundaries of interior design. Her projects included covering walls entirely with straw, a decision that predictably met with homeowner disapproval. Another of Santo-Tomas's bold moves involved a dining room accent wall featuring a floor-to-ceiling mosaic portrait of her own face, a unique and unforgettable personal stamp on a client's home. She also once transformed a kitchen into a 'horror show' with off-putting red paint, coffin-shaped shelving, and a blood-stained tarp as an 'art project,' which was far from appetizing for the homeowners. In a bathroom makeover, Santo-Tomas stapled hundreds of fake flowers to the walls and painted the trim gold, a design choice that, while peculiar, could have been worse by her standards. Perhaps her most audacious design was inverting an entire living room, hanging all the furniture from the ceiling, rendering the space impractical for daily living. Designer Doug Wilson also contributed to some of the show's most controversial designs. He once crammed a small room with a loud red-and-white pattern and oversized lounge seating, making the space feel even more confined. Wilson was also responsible for one of the show's most infamous moments, dubbed the 'Crying Pam' episode, where he covered a brick fireplace with a modern white facade, leading to the homeowner's emotional breakdown during the reveal. In another instance, he created a jungle safari-themed bedroom with zebra print walls and bamboo accents, a concept that prioritized theme over comfort and taste. Wilson's collaboration with Santo-Tomas on a monochromatic room challenge also yielded surprising results; while Santo-Tomas impressed her homeowners with an all-black room featuring an intricate ribbon wall, Wilson's all-white room was less well-received. The article also touches on other regrettable design decisions. Santo-Tomas's attempt to paint walls with paintball guns resulted in a greasy, unremovable mess that damaged the drywall. Another designer, inspired by a homeowner's interest in glass beads, incorporated them excessively into pillows, curtain rods, and a fireplace facade, complementing it with an uninviting concrete floor. Lastly, Wilson's all-white room, created as part of a monochromatic challenge, involved painting over the homeowners' newly refurbished wood floors against their explicit wishes, creating a sterile, Kubrickian aesthetic that was far from what they desired. These examples collectively illustrate the unpredictable nature of 'Trading Spaces' and the wide spectrum of reactions its designs elicited from homeowners. #TradingSpaces #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #DesignFails #HildiSantoTomas #DougWilson #RealityTV #HomeMakeover #WorstDesigns

Madeline Stuart, a prominent interior designer in Hollywood, has recently published her new book, 'No Place Like Home: Interiors by Madeline Stuart' (Rizzoli, $55). The title itself is a nod to 'The Wizard of Oz,' reflecting Stuart's deep connection to Hollywood's golden age. Stuart is recognized for her work with a clientele that includes notable figures like Larry David, Gary and Jeanne Newman, Lisa Henson, John Goldwyn, and Jeff Klein, as well as past clients such as Jason Alexander, Stacey Snider, Lindsey Buckingham, and the late Nora Ephron. The book highlights several of Stuart's projects, with a particular focus on her redecoration of the iconic Steamline residence. This home, originally built in 1930 by MGM’s production designer Cedric Gibbons for actress Delores Del Rio, was a challenging yet rewarding project for Stuart. She approached the redecoration with sensitivity, aiming to preserve the original ambiance while incorporating modern comforts. This involved meticulous details such as replicating the home's original gleaming black floors and redesigning French dining chairs to more contemporary proportions. Stuart, the daughter of director Mel Stuart ('Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory') and decorator Harriet Stuart, grew up immersed in a Hollywood environment. This upbringing instilled in her a unique perspective on interior design, allowing her to create spaces that feel authentic and somewhat 'undecorated.' She views each project as a director approaches a film, conducting extensive research to ensure that the design reflects the inhabitants' personalities and the architectural style of the home. This methodology ensures that each of the eight residences featured in her book possesses a distinctive character, a departure from designers who might repeat signature elements across different projects. Her design philosophy is centered on uniqueness and personalization, as she strives to 'reinvent the wheel every time.' Stuart emphasizes that her approach, while not necessarily a conventional business strategy, is driven by a desire to explore the vast array of beautiful design possibilities rather than adhering to repetitive styles. Her inspirations are diverse, ranging from a Hispano-Moresque beach house with individually designed bathrooms to a Wyoming mountaintop retreat furnished with modernist pieces by designers like Paul McCobb and Milo Baughman, eschewing traditional rustic decor. Despite the intricate detailing and unique themes, Stuart’s interiors maintain an ordered, spacious, and comfortable feel. She believes that beyond aesthetics, functionality and comfort are paramount. She highlights the importance of ensuring that a chair is comfortable or that there is a designated space for watching television, underscoring a practical approach to luxury living. Stuart’s work demonstrates a thoughtful balance between historical reverence, personal expression, and modern practicality, offering a fresh perspective on interior design within the Hollywood context. #MadelineStuart #InteriorDesign #HollywoodHomes #NoPlaceLikeHome #CelebrityClients #ArchitecturalStyle #HomeDecoration #RizzoliBooks #CedricGibbons

Kate Chastain, known for her role in *Below Deck*, recently showcased a DIY home update on her Instagram, transforming a discarded holiday wreath left by previous homeowners. Instead of disposing of it, Chastain repurposed the twig wreath by adding Florida-inspired palm frond trimmings, creating a rustic and seasonal decoration for her front gate. This update aligns with her previous plans for home upgrades in her Melbourne Beach, Florida residence, where she is raising her 2-year-old son, Sullivan Cay. The initial photograph of the updated wreath drew attention not only to the decoration itself but also to an unexpected design element on her "antique gate." Observant followers and Chastain herself noted a phallic-like rod pattern beneath the wreath, which amusingly resembled the "rocketship-shaped blanket fold" she famously created during *Below Deck* Season 2. Chastain acknowledged the similarity, playfully stating that she was "trying to rebrand" the gate's appearance despite the unintentional resemblance. The "rocketship" blanket incident from *Below Deck* Season 2, Episode 4, remains one of the show's iconic moments. In 2014, Chastain retaliated against a challenging charter guest by folding a blanket into a suggestive shape, which she insisted was a "rocketship." When questioned by Chef Ben Robinson, she humorously defended her creation, implying a destination beyond Earth for the guest. This act of "rage-filled genius," as she described it in a confessional, was a passive-aggressive yet entertaining response to a difficult situation. Chastain retired from yachting in 2020 after more than a decade in the industry and has since embraced her role as a mother and homeowner in Florida. Her social media updates often provide glimpses into her current life, including her parenting experiences and home improvements. This particular DIY project not only highlights her creativity in home decoration but also cleverly references a memorable moment from her past television career, demonstrating her ongoing playful and witty personality. The home update, while seemingly simple, sparked a nostalgic connection to a fan-favorite *Below Deck* anecdote, intertwining her personal life with her public persona. #KateChastain #HomeDecor #DIY #BelowDeck #FloridaLiving #HomeImprovement #RealityTV #OutdoorSpaces #GateDesign

The article details the renovation of Mary Portas's London home, a project undertaken by the interior design firm Space A, founded by architects Amelia Hunter and Anna Drakes. Portas, known for her advocacy for British high streets and, more recently, her book 'Work Like a Woman,' sought to create a living space that reflected her values of collaboration, care, and respect, moving beyond conventional notions of profit and growth. This ethos guided the entire design process, emphasizing the support of talented young business owners and embodying a more conscious approach to living. The collaboration between Portas and Space A was significant, leading to the establishment of Space A itself, born from Project OO, a collective studio that Portas initially approached. Portas highlights the importance of supporting businesses that prioritize values beyond mere financial gain, especially in a post-pandemic world, where empathy and understanding the implications of design choices are paramount. This philosophy is also central to her new book, 'Rebuild: How to Thrive in the New Kindness Economy.' A key aspect of the renovation involved integrating the property's original and pre-loved features. Portas incorporated old church tiles she had collected, as well as those found within the house, to decorate the fireplaces and utility room. The vintage sink in the powder room was retained and given a modern twist with vibrant orange paint and House of Hackney wallpaper, creating a contemporary yet eclectic feel. The design elements throughout the home blend timeless quality with bold contemporary touches. The basement features English oak paneling, herringbone flooring, and custom joinery, contributing to a classic kitchen aesthetic. Upstairs, the two open-plan reception rooms are distinctively divided by color—one side in Dulux’s ‘Olive Grove’ and the other in ‘Powder Pink’—creating visual interest and defining separate zones within a fluid space. Consistent with Portas's persona, the home prominently features British brands and artists, such as Grayson Perry's 'Britain is Best' tapestry, which finds a natural place in the decor. When selecting furniture with interior decorator Louise Donald, Portas prioritized collaborating with individuals who demonstrated kindness, honesty, and genuine passion for their products, rather than just the brands themselves. This focus on the human element and the emotional connection to objects aligns with Amelia Hunter's concept of 'five a day for your space,' equating well-chosen design elements to 'metaphorical vitamins and minerals' for psychological well-being. Ultimately, Portas views her home as an extension of her spirit, a place filled with color, character, and warmth, serving as a sanctuary where she can be her authentic self. The project's success is attributed to working with people who understood her needs as a woman, fostering a sense of nurturing and belonging within her living environment. #LondonHome #InteriorDesign #MaryPortas #SpaceA #FemaleEntrepreneurship #SustainableDesign #KindnessEconomy #BritishDesigners #HomeRenovation

Home design trends, much like fashion, are cyclical, with some enduring and others leading to homeowner regret. A recent survey of homeowners revealed several trends that, despite initial appeal, ultimately proved to be costly, impractical, or aesthetically displeasing. These experiences highlight the importance of considering long-term functionality, maintenance, and personal preference over fleeting fads. One frequently cited regret is the installation of subway tile. While visually appealing in curated media, homeowners report that the extensive grout lines make it a magnet for dirt, requiring daily cleaning to maintain its pristine appearance. The difficulty and expense of removal also make it a commitment many wish they had avoided, contrasting sharply with the ease and versatility of wallpaper, which can be changed or covered more readily. Similarly, a past trend of sponge painting, particularly with vibrant colors, proved to be an arduous and ultimately unsatisfying endeavor, leading to incomplete projects and eventual repainting. Open floor plans, a popular modern design choice, also garnered significant criticism. While offering a sense of spaciousness, the lack of walls contributes to pervasive cooking odors, constant visual clutter from dirty dishes, and a significant reduction in noise privacy. The absence of defined spaces can also make it challenging to create separate zones for different activities, leading some homeowners to consider re-installing walls. Certain appliance and fixture choices have also led to regret. Microwave drawers, while saving counter space, are criticized for uneven heating due to the absence of a rotating plate, frequent spills, and difficult internal cleaning. Stainless steel appliances, a common choice for a sleek, modern kitchen, are universally disliked for their propensity to show every fingerprint and smudge, demanding constant wiping. Farm-style sinks, though charming, have also been a source of disappointment for some homeowners, though the specific reasons for their dissatisfaction are not detailed in this context. Cabinetry and countertops represent another area of potential regret. Dark painted cabinets, especially in colors like navy, show wear and tear significantly more than natural wood, making scratches and imperfections highly visible. This has led some to wish they had invested in higher-quality natural wood options. Dark quartz countertops, while initially perceived as elegant, can obscure dirt and spills, creating an unsanitary environment and leading to an overall feeling of heaviness or gloom in the kitchen. The long-term emotional impact of a disliked countertop choice can be substantial, influencing daily mood and satisfaction with the home. Broader philosophical regrets also emerged from the homeowner survey. Many expressed remorse over feeling pressured to constantly update their homes to align with "Instagrammable" ideals. This pursuit often led to unnecessary expenses and stress, particularly for those living in older homes. Instead, a growing sentiment advocates for appreciating the existing features of a home and prioritizing functional needs over aesthetic trends. This perspective champions saving money for essential repairs and learning to be content with what one has, rather than chasing an elusive vision of perfection. Specific color and architectural trends have also faced backlash. The "everything gray" trend, once seen as modern and chic, is now often described as dull and boring, leading homeowners to long for more vibrant colors. Arched doorways, though charming in some settings, were regretted when they clashed with the overall style and layout of a modern home, appearing out of place. Similarly, painting an entire living room black, intended to be cool and sleek, often resulted in the room feeling significantly smaller and claustrophobic. Finally, barn doors, a trend embraced for their rustic appeal, are now seen by many as instantly dating a house, with pocket doors being preferred for their similar functionality without the same aesthetic baggage. These experiences collectively underscore the need for homeowners to critically evaluate trends, considering practicality, maintenance, and how well a design choice integrates with their home's existing character and their personal lifestyle, rather than solely focusing on contemporary popularity. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeownerRegrets #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #LivingSpace #RenovationMistakes #DecoratingTips #PracticalHome

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

Kathryn M. Ireland, a Los Angeles-based interior designer, is releasing a new book titled "A Life In Design" on October 24. This book commemorates her three decades in the industry, highlighting her distinct and fearless approach to interior design. Ireland's philosophy emphasizes a non-serious, playful attitude towards decorating, which has attracted a diverse clientele, including notable figures like Steve Martin and Drew Barrymore. The book will feature some of her Hollywood projects and personal residences, showcasing her signature style of blending colors, global styles, and various fabrics. Ireland's journey into interior design began unconventionally. She transformed her filmmaker husband's editing studio in Santa Monica into a decorative accessories shop, which quickly gained popularity. Her initial foray into professional interior design came when Steve Martin, impressed by an article she wrote for House & Garden about another celebrity home, commissioned her to design his cottage. For Martin's home, Ireland incorporated subtle seafoam green and cream fabrics with interesting textures to complement his vibrant modern art collection. She also designed simple yet luxurious curtains and created relaxed seating areas, fostering an environment suitable for conversation or impromptu musical sessions, reflecting Martin's interest in playing the banjo. Ireland views each project as a significant learning experience, and her work for Steve Martin taught her the importance of starting with art and antiques in her design process. Her design projects extend beyond celebrity homes to include residential transformations across various locations. For instance, she renovated cosmetics giant Victoria Jackson's ranch house in Ojai, California. This project involved extensive work, such as stripping floors and remodeling bathrooms, and introduced elements like Moroccan and Mexican tiles, Spanish light fixtures, and European furnishings. Ireland also added unexpected details, such as curtains made from vintage Mexican serapes and distinctive red floral-shaped light fixtures in the master bedroom, embodying her preference for amusing, unexpected touches over kitsch. Her expertise also extended to a full-scale renovation of a British actor's farmhouse in the Cotswolds, formerly owned by Sir Mark Palmer. In this project, she meticulously preserved the original spirit of the house while infusing her style. This included wallpapering the master bedroom with her Marrakech Natural in Teal fabric, pairing it with a French armchair upholstered in Pampas Teal by Andrew Martin, and incorporating an armoire from Lorfords in Tetbury. A kente cloth bedspread, created by an Ashanti tribe in Ghana, further exemplified her global aesthetic. Ireland's connection to Ghanaian fabrics dates back to the 1980s when she traveled there for a documentary, and these textiles have since become a primary inspiration for her own fabric collections, which are also featured in her new book. Ireland describes her rooms as resembling a "United Nations," where diverse elements from Bali, Ghana, and France coexist harmoniously. She believes that while many elements can be prominent, they must collectively create a sense of balance and unity rather than any single item dominating the space. Her long-standing engagement with textiles began at an early age, winning a sewing prize at seven for a patchwork quilt, and she continues to sew her own clothes. Ireland, who started her career in fashion, views home design as an extension of fashion, believing that decorating is a therapeutic and relaxing process for both herself and her clients. #KathrynMIreland #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignBook #CelebrityHomes #GlobalStyles #TextileDesign #CaliforniaDesign

This blog post compiles a list of 34 interior design trends that people find objectionable, drawing from reader submissions. The article highlights various aesthetic and functional concerns raised by individuals regarding popular home decor and architectural choices. Many of the criticisms revolve around impracticality, high maintenance, and a perceived lack of timelessness in modern designs. Open shelving in kitchens is frequently cited as impractical, leading to dust accumulation and requiring perfectly matched dinnerware for an aesthetically pleasing look. Many readers also express frustration with the lack of adequate storage in large, expensive new homes, particularly the absence of entryway closets for coats and shoes, or sufficient space for cleaning appliances. Lighting choices also come under scrutiny, with oversized fixtures featuring overly bright Edison-style bulbs being disliked for their harsh illumination and flickering issues when dimmed. Microwaves integrated into lower cabinets are deemed inconvenient and potentially hazardous, especially for individuals with mobility challenges or homes with young children. Another common complaint targets "shower rooms" where a freestanding tub is enclosed within a glass shower, leading to increased cleaning demands due to scum buildup on the tub. Design trends that prioritize aesthetics over functionality are a recurring theme. Examples include outlets placed inside kitchen drawers, which hinder the use of appliances, and ventless range hoods that fail to remove cooking odors and steam effectively. The open-plan concept is criticized for allowing cooking smells to permeate the entire living space, creating an undesirable environment. Similarly, placing laundry facilities in the kitchen is seen as unsanitary and inconvenient. Exterior and structural trends are also discussed. The use of fake fireplace chimneys and fake stone siding on new constructions is seen as disingenuous and cheap-looking. The widespread use of pot lights in ceilings is viewed as an overkill, with many preferring a single, well-chosen light fixture. Farmhouse sinks are criticized for their flat bottoms, which lead to poor drainage and increased water usage for cleaning. Two-toned kitchen cabinetry is often described as disjointed and appearing like a mismatched collection of leftover pieces. Furthermore, shower niches without internal shelving are considered useless, failing to provide practical storage. Other criticized trends include the practice of designing homes solely to appeal to potential future buyers, leading to bland and uninspired interiors. The destruction of existing trees for new developments and the construction of large houses on small lots are also lamented for their negative environmental and aesthetic impact. Functional elements like two-handle faucets, which make temperature regulation difficult, and freestanding tubs, which are hard to clean behind, are also a source of annoyance. The article also mentions specific regional issues, such as all-black modern farmhouses in the hot Southern climate, which are deemed impractical. Lastly, horizontal deck balusters are seen as a safety hazard for climbing toddlers, and the painting of original brick on mid-century homes is viewed as a detrimental alteration. Fake stone and quartz countertops are also mentioned as cheap-looking and dated, respectively. The layout of walking through a bathroom to access a closet is considered a privacy issue, and clear shower doors are seen as impractical for shared living spaces. Small garages are also listed as a significant inconvenience due to the increasing size of modern vehicles and restrictive homeowners' association rules.

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

Fanny Ward, a London-based interior designer and stylist, shares insights from her extensive career, which spans collaborations with major brands like Fortnum & Mason and Harrods, as well as designing interiors for homes, hotels in locations such as Marrakesh, St Lucia, Geneva, and even super yachts in the Mediterranean. Now in her 70s, Ward reflects on her journey into the design world, which she describes as serendipitous. Her career began after her marriage ended, working at The Dining Room Shop where she discovered a passion for visual merchandising and decorating. An unexpected feature of her home in the Sunday Express by editor Eve Pollard led to a portfolio development through collaborations with renowned photographers like Fritz von der Schulenberg and Simon Upton. Her first significant professional role was with Dulux paint, where she was responsible for promoting their color schemes. This experience, along with her innate 'eye' for design—a trait she attributes to her mother—allowed her to learn on the job and develop a practical approach to interior design. Ward emphasizes that an inherent aesthetic sensibility is crucial and cannot be taught in a classroom setting. Throughout her career, she has worked with a diverse range of clients, but a pivotal moment was her collaboration with Volga Linen and Theresa Tollemache, which led to her taking on a full-time interior design role after decorating a large estate in Scotland. Ward recounts memorable projects, including transforming television presenter Jim Davidson's house into a Moroccan casbah. This project involved extensive customisation using Arabic fabrics, unique chair coverings, abundant cushions, and MDF mouldings to create an authentic atmosphere. She highlights her unwavering passion for good lighting, advocating for 'borrowed light' techniques, as practiced by Georgians, to brighten dark spaces and uplift the mood. She strongly advises against overhead lighting in most rooms, preferring floor or table lamps, with exceptions for bathrooms, kitchens, and strategically hung chandeliers. Her design philosophy also includes tailoring her color palettes to the project's location, incorporating natural elements like lichen yellows and various greens for Scottish projects, and emphasizing textures such as tweeds and chintz to blend the indoors with the outdoors. Ward provides practical advice on furniture placement, suggesting that sofas and chairs should be moved slightly away from walls to create a more inviting space. She also champions the preservation of a building's original character, emphasizing sustainability and the importance of allowing a home's personality to evolve with its inhabitants through quality furnishings. Despite having access to high-end suppliers like Howe London, Love Your Home, George Smith, Little Greene, Annie Sloan, Lewis & Wood, and Nina Campbell, Ward also champions affordable options from Ikea and Dunelm for transforming spaces on a budget. She encourages painting old furniture to give it new life, showcasing her belief that good design is accessible regardless of financial constraints. Currently engaged in a barn conversion in Scotland, Ward expresses her love for working on projects from the ground up, meticulously drawing everything to scale to immerse herself in the design process. She finds immense joy and engagement in her work, which allows her to meet fascinating people and their stories, while also maintaining a healthy work-life balance by setting boundaries for her working hours and taking time for personal life and travel with friends and family. Her advice to aspiring designers is to gain experience by working for others and to be brave in pursuing their passions and building connections. #InteriorDesign #FannyWard #CareerHighlights #DesignPhilosophy #HomeDecor #LightingDesign #ClientProjects #Entrepreneurship #CreativeProcess

The article details the home renovation journey of Temi Johnson, a participant in BBC1's Interior Design Masters, who transformed her two-bedroom Victorian end-of-terrace house in Hertfordshire into a vibrant and personal space, ultimately leading her to pursue a full-time career in interior design. Temi and her husband initially fell in love with the house's location, which offered good links to London while feeling like it was in the countryside. They had previously lived on a narrowboat to save for a mortgage, and ironically, their new home was right next to a boatyard they frequented for repairs. Upon purchasing the house, Temi quickly realized it needed significant work beyond a cosmetic makeover, including extensive modernization and redecoration, especially the bathroom which had exposed old soil pipes. Despite these challenges, the house retained its original parquet flooring and had a small kitchen extension, providing a good foundation. The renovation began with ripping out the downstairs kitchen and old shower room, transforming it into a larger kitchen, laundry room, and downstairs toilet. This phase, initially planned for six weeks, stretched to nearly three months due to unexpected building issues, forcing them to wash dishes in the bathtub. Temi's vision for the kitchen was a decent-sized space for entertaining, reflecting her love for food. She describes the kitchen as the heart of the house, where they spend most of their time with friends and family. The design incorporated cabinetry with hidden storage and open shelving, cubbyholes for plates, and a built-in wine rack. For the worktops, she opted for durable quartz over more expensive and delicate marble, considering they have a three-year-old. The kitchen also features a country-style Butler sink and brass taps and handles, with the island housing the oven and hob. The living room was designed to feel larger and more inviting, using a bright orange eco-friendly lime-wash paint from Francesca’s Paints, as Temi expresses a dislike for wallpaper. The room is furnished with a mix of vintage finds, including an Ercol sofa and a brass coffee table from eBay, complemented by cherished artworks. Temi highlights her love for antiques and vintage items, emphasizing their character and charm, and describes her style as a blend of traditional and modern vintage with a strong emphasis on color. She mentions painting the fireplace black, a detail inspired by a previous boat renovation, and notes the polarizing reactions to her orange living room. Moving to the private spaces, the main bedroom features a birch bed from Ikea and a color scheme with Dulux’s Bright Skies on the walls and a Farrow & Ball Arsenic-matched paint for the door. A fitted wardrobe with curved door inserts and large circular brass handles, sourced from Pushka Home, was custom-built to fit an alcove. Her son's bedroom is designed for play and storage, featuring a raised Ikea bed to accommodate toys and a teepee that serves as a snug area. The bathroom, a surprising challenge during the renovation due to unseen damage and previous modifications for disability, was updated with a second-hand bath and sink from eBay, with all plumbing replaced. Temi concludes by advising against rushing home decoration, encouraging homeowners to take their time to find items they truly love, emphasizing that a home will come together authentically with patience. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #VictorianHouse #Hertfordshire #ColorfulDecor #KitchenDesign #LivingRoomIdeas #BedroomDecor #DIYHome

Matilda Goad, a 31-year-old designer and creative consultant, has become a prominent figure in the intersection of fashion and interiors. Her designs, characterized by eccentric flourishes, rainbow colors, scalloped edges, and cane detailing, are highly popular on platforms like Instagram, where she boasts over 62,000 followers. Goad has also established herself as a go-to homeware expert within the fashion industry, counting notable figures such as creative director Alex Eagle and designer Margherita Missoni among her admirers. Her strong connections to the fashion world are evident through her familial and social circles, including her cousin, Vogue journalist Plum Sykes, her best friend and Shrimps founder Hannah Weiland (whose 2018 wedding Goad styled), and her friend and neighbor, podcaster and author Pandora Sykes. During a tour of her recently renovated London home with her three-month-old baby, Domino, Goad emphasizes her keen attention to detail in her decorating approach. She explains that her decorating style mirrors her fashion sense, prioritizing detailing, accessories, textures, and colors. Examples of her meticulous design choices include vibrant red grout on white pantry tiles, cut-out cane diamond paneling in her bedroom wardrobes, and French bistro-style half-curtains by her breakfast table. Goad's journey into interiors was somewhat serendipitous. She began her career in fashion, working for Vogue Russia, Teen Vogue, and Wonderland magazine, and later assisting photographer and stylist Venetia Scott. Her transition to interiors occurred when she struggled to find an affordable lampshade with specific design elements. This led her to customize lampshades by adding braiding and eventually having them professionally made. This pursuit of visual perfection culminated in the launch of her eponymous brand in 2016. The brand, which initially featured a best-selling range of lampshades, has since expanded to include cutlery, napkins, planters, and other items, with prices ranging from £24 to £300. Her products are retailed at prominent stores like Liberty and Matchesfashion.com, and she also maintains a global customer base through her website. Goad is mindful of not overproducing, aiming for a concise collection where every item serves a strong purpose while also being aesthetically pleasing. In May 2019, Goad and her husband, Tom Corbett-Winder, moved into their three-story terrace house in northwest London. The renovation, which took four months, was managed by Tom's project management company. The outcome is a colorful and contemporary space that seamlessly blends practicality with style, embodying Goad's whimsical aesthetic while remaining a functional family home. The home features several clever design solutions: a reeded drawer cabinet in the sitting room, painted a vibrant betel-nut red with Beata Heuman bow handles, offers deep storage for children's toys. The denim-upholstered banquette in the kitchen incorporates hidden plug sockets and built-in storage. Japanese-style bar stools swing out from a reinforced breakfast bar to maximize space. While the design includes feminine touches, Goad ensures a balanced aesthetic by incorporating elements that add a subtle toughness, preventing the overall look from being overly sweet. For instance, her pink bedroom is balanced by scuffed wooden floorboards and a four-poster wooden bedframe, an eBay find that she personalized with blue rings using leftover tester pots. Goad draws inspiration from diverse sources, ranging from her mother's appreciation for chintz to the art of Swedish artist Hilma af Klint. She actively shares her design knowledge through her monthly newsletter, the Dispatch, where she recommends suppliers and sells vintage finds. Despite the polished appearance of her home, Goad considers it an ongoing project, constantly adding and adjusting elements, believing that a home evolves over time. She likens small changes, such as swapping a lampshade, to putting together a new outfit, emphasizing that these adjustments can refresh a room. Ultimately, she believes that the feeling a home evokes prepares one to engage with the outside world. Matilda also offers several practical tips for achieving a stylish home: repurpose luxurious fabrics for smaller impactful areas, use misspelt words or designer names in eBay searches for bargains, follow accounts like @haines_collection for affordable fabric offcuts, don't hesitate to use placeholder items until the perfect piece is found, and introduce unexpected furniture pieces into rooms to make them feel less sterile. She also recommends several antique dealers on Instagram: @oldalbion for vintage gems, @thehomebothy for decorative antiques, and @vintageonthevine for Goadesque chintzy pieces. #MatildaGoad #InteriorDesign #LondonHome #HomeDecor #FashionAndInteriors #DesignTips #ColorfulInteriors #Renovation #HomeStyling

Interior designer Kate Marker introduces her philosophy for creating a home that genuinely reflects its inhabitants, emphasizing beauty, balance, and a sense of belonging. The core of her approach, detailed in her new book 'The Love of Home: Interiors for Beauty, Balance, and Belonging,' revolves around empowering individuals to make design choices that cultivate joy, strengthen connections, and enhance overall well-being within their living spaces. Marker aims for homes to not only be aesthetically pleasing but also to feel inherently good to live in. The article provides an in-depth look at a specific design project: her close friend's Nordic-inspired modern farmhouse. This collaboration allowed Marker to infuse the home with personalized elements that resonate deeply with the family's stories and heritage. The design process was seamless, facilitated by the strong personal connection between Marker and her friend. The home's layout is characterized by an effortless flow between rooms, contributing to a harmonious atmosphere. Drawing inspiration from her friend's Swedish roots, the design integrates Nordic touches, maintaining a clean and airy aesthetic while incorporating warm materials and creating cozy nooks for both individual retreat and family connection. Key to Marker's design philosophy is the strategic placement of personal keepsakes, transforming them into 'conversation pieces.' These items, ranging from family heirlooms to cherished thrift-store finds, serve as visual prompts for storytelling, fostering deeper connections among family members and with guests. For instance, a brass Greek goddess figurine, discovered by her friend, holds a prominent spot in the family room, embodying a narrative of discovery and personal attachment. Marker highlights that such pieces are instrumental in making a home feel authentic, lived-in, and deeply personal, moving beyond mere decoration to evoke emotion and shared history. The article further elaborates on the concept of 'conversation pieces' through furniture selection. Marker advocates for incorporating swivel chairs in common areas like family rooms, sitting rooms, or sunrooms. Beyond their stylish appearance, these chairs offer practical functionality, allowing occupants to effortlessly shift between enjoying a view and engaging in conversation. The ability to pivot easily from one focus to another enhances social interaction and comfort. Similarly, Marker proposes a 'golden rule' for sofa selection: opting for a single bench cushion that spans the entire length of the sofa. This design choice not only creates a visually seamless and elegant look but also promotes a sense of togetherness among those seated. In contrast, sofas with multiple, divided cushions can inadvertently make someone feel marginalized if they end up in a seam, thereby hindering the feeling of belonging that Marker strives to create. Ultimately, Marker's vision encourages homeowners to craft spaces that are rich with personal meaning and facilitate genuine human connection. By thoughtfully integrating sentimental objects and selecting furniture that promotes interaction and comfort, a home can become a true sanctuary that tells its own unique story and reflects the identities of those who live within its walls. This approach ensures that the home is not just a dwelling but a living narrative, continuously unfolding and evolving with its inhabitants. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #PersonalizedHome #ConversationPieces #NordicDesign #FurnitureSelection #KateMarkerInteriors #HomeStyling #MeaningfulSpaces

The article offers a detailed look into the Atlanta home of interior designer Whitney Durham, owner and lead designer of Whitney Durham Interiors, and her husband Nathan Durham. Purchased in 2013, the 1932 cottage-style home, measuring 3,800 square feet with four bedrooms and three bathrooms, has undergone several updates to reflect Whitney's evolving design aesthetic while retaining its original charm. The Durhams initially bought the property with existing additions, such as an owner’s suite, an expanded kitchen, and a screened-in porch, which they later enclosed in 2016 to create a sunroom. In early 2020, a pool and cabana were added to the backyard, enhancing the outdoor living space. Whitney's design philosophy centers on injecting color, mixing old and new, and combining high-end and budget-friendly pieces to create a curated, joyful atmosphere. This is evident throughout the home. For instance, the foyer features an antique Turkish rug and an abstract painting by Michelle Armas, complementing the home's original Gothic blue front door. The living room showcases new sofas from Ellenburg Chair Company alongside antique mirrors and a vintage zebra hide, while an abstract painting by Elaine Burge and a two-tier chandelier by Aerin from Circa Lighting serve as focal points. The formal dining room was converted into a sitting room, furnished with custom swivel tub chairs, a vintage Lucite chandelier, art by Renee Bouchon, and a large abstract painting by Whitney herself. This space also incorporates Schumacher fabric for window treatments and Moroccan ottomans from B.D. Jeffries. The guest suite, which was the original owner’s suite, features bold coral walls with Hale Navy accents, beds from SWOOX Curated Consignment, a vintage dresser, and art by Teil Duncan and Christina Baker. The sunroom, created from the enclosed porch, provides a family gathering space with a custom sectional, swivel chairs, layered rugs, and an open connection to the kitchen. The kitchen itself has been updated with white quartz countertops on the island, a classic white subway tile backsplash, and vintage Turkish runners. Lighting fixtures by Sean Lavin and art by Elaine Burge further enhance the space. The owner’s suite is characterized by high ceilings, a collection of art, an antique canopy bed, and lamps made from vessels passed down from Whitney's grandmother. The children's bedroom features custom headboards, bedding from Serena & Lily and Ballard Designs, and monogrammed pillows, while their shared bathroom includes new mirrors, shiplap, and a whimsical cowboy painting by Elaine Burge. The playroom offers ample seating with a custom sofa and leather club chairs, adorned with their sons' artwork. The article highlights the collaborative effort in the home’s renovation, with landscape architect Graham Pittman working on the backyard. Whitney emphasizes that a home should be a source of happiness, filled with meaningful and carefully chosen pieces, reflecting her consistent approach to interior design. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #AtlantaHomes #WhitneyDurhamInteriors #HomeRenovation #CottageStyle #EclecticDesign #ArtCollection #FamilyHome

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