My Favorite Room ... with designer Jessica Kilcoyne

Drew Cauley, a designer from Design Resource Gallery, identifies his breakfast room as his favorite space within his home. This preference stems from his intentional design choices aimed at fostering a seamless connection between the indoors and the natural environment outside. The room's aesthetic is heavily influenced by a large landscape mural that serves as a focal point, bringing elements of nature directly into the living space. Complementing this visual feature are various natural wood accents, carefully integrated throughout the room to enhance the organic, outdoor-inspired ambiance. Cauley's design philosophy for this room emphasizes comfort and tranquility, creating an inviting atmosphere for daily routines. The selection of materials and finishes is deliberate, contributing to a sense of warmth and natural beauty. The natural wood elements, for instance, are not merely decorative but also tactile, grounding the room in organic textures. These choices collectively create a harmonious environment that supports relaxation and a connection to the natural world, aligning with the designer's vision for a personal sanctuary within his home. The breakfast room functions as more than just a dining area; it is a space designed to uplift and inspire, reinforcing the importance of natural light and organic design in daily life. This room exemplifies how thoughtful interior design can significantly impact well-being and daily experience by blurring the lines between indoor comfort and outdoor serenity. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #BreakfastRoom #LandscapeMural #NaturalWoodAccents #DesignPhilosophy #DrewCauley #DesignResourceGallery

Jess Cooney, a Massachusetts-based interior designer, is recognized for her approach to combining timeless architecture with contemporary, relaxed living. Her work primarily focuses on historic homes in the Berkshires, where she aims to create spaces that are both deeply grounded and highly functional. Cooney’s design philosophy is significantly influenced by her personal experience with a large, active family, emphasizing how design can contribute to a calmer, more fluid, and intentional home environment. She prioritizes storage and flow in her designs, enabling homes to adapt seamlessly from accommodating large family gatherings, like Thanksgiving, to serving as intimate retreats for one or two people. Cooney highlights the importance of versatile spaces that can expand and contract based on the number of occupants. She ensures that her designs account for practical aspects, such as the layout of breakfast nooks and laundry facilities, to facilitate ease of living. Her goal is to create an effortless environment, regardless of the number of people present, promoting a sense of tranquility. A key element of her design strategy involves integrating smart storage solutions, especially for families with children. She designs designated areas for items like band-aids and wet towels, often plotting routes from outdoor areas like pools or yards through mudrooms and laundry rooms. This meticulous planning aims to minimize clutter and allow family members, particularly children, to enjoy their activities without causing disruption to the home's overall peaceful atmosphere. Central to Cooney’s design ethos is the concept of grounding a space through its base materials. When working with older homes, she strives for schemes that are original to the building, often incorporating reclaimed materials. For instance, she might use reclaimed flooring from old barns or limestone pavers from the UK, which already possess a sense of patina and history. This approach, layered with playful elements, helps to root the space and ensures clients feel their investment is worthwhile. She also advocates for the use of plaster walls to enhance this grounded feeling. Cooney notes a cultural difference in the appreciation of patina, with Europeans often embracing it more readily than Americans, who tend to prefer new and pristine finishes. She educates her clients on the beauty of wear and tear, suggesting that scratches and dings contribute to a softer, more character-rich environment over time. While working with traditional homes, Cooney frequently incorporates modern furniture, particularly mid-century pieces, to introduce freshness. She values beautifully worn leather chairs that offer both modernity and comfort. This blend of vintage and new furnishings is intended to cultivate a sense of soul and evolution within a space, contributing to a grounded and calming ambiance. Her preference for 100-year-old rugs is also noted for their durability and ability to withstand heavy use. Additionally, Cooney often uses reclaimed wood beams and handcrafted tiles, emphasizing their tactile qualities and timelessness. She explains that the dramatic seasonal changes in the Berkshires, where she primarily works, necessitate materials that are robust and enduring. These elements, she believes, possess inherent personality and soul, standing in contrast to fleeting trends. Cooney’s work extends to educating her clients on the nuances of design. A frequent piece of advice she offers is that not every element in a home needs to be a showpiece. She encourages clients to selectively choose what aspects will stand out and what will remain subdued. Her philosophy suggests that when too many decisions are treated as major, interesting choices, the overall effect can be overwhelming. Instead, she recommends pulling back at times and focusing on creating smaller, impactful moments within each room, ensuring a harmonious and balanced interior. Her designs underscore a practical, soul-driven approach to creating tranquil and functional living spaces that stand the test of time and family life. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #JessCooneyInteriors #TranquilSpaces #StorageSolutions #Patina #MaterialSelection #ModernFurnishings #BerkshiresDesign

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

This article, published by T Magazine, showcases a curated selection of inspiring bedroom designs from around the world, ranging from minimalist sanctuaries to maximalist experiments. The collection features various designers, artists, and homeowners, highlighting their unique approaches to creating personal resting spaces. Each entry provides a brief description of the featured bedroom, often detailing specific design elements, furniture, and artistic influences. Featured bedrooms include that of interior stylist Colin King's Brooklyn apartment, which incorporates a 1950s pietra dura artwork and pieces from Roman and Williams Guild. Federico de Vera's family home in the central Philippines showcases a repainted 1970s children's bed with a bedspread made from Ilocos region's native *inabel* cloth. Fashion executives Carlo Alberto Beretta and Jacopo Venturini's Milan apartment features a blend of global textiles like an Uzbek suzani, a Ghanaian bedspread, and a Peruvian carpet, alongside 1950s Italian armchairs. The collection also includes a guest room in Tivoli, N.Y., designed by Adam Charlap Hyman, characterized by Laurel Trellis wallpaper, a WB Form Cloud Lamp, and vintage Ikea furniture. The Bali home of Maison Kitsuné co-founder Gildas Loaëc and stylist Romy Ishii Loaëc presents a linen-draped bed, embodying an airy sanctuary. In Sweden, the bedroom of designer Ingegerd Råman and artist Claes Söderquist features an oak bed designed by Söderquist and glass vessels by Råman. Further examples include a guest room in Dar Zero, the vacation home of Jamie Creel and Marco Scarani in Tangier, Morocco, adorned with a marigold headboard and a patchwork tapestry. The lofted bedroom of architect Robert Finger and designer Robert Remer’s Wellfleet, Mass., cottage includes a portrait study by Adelaide Newhall and a family quilt. A maximalist experimental bedroom in Brussels, shared by artists Jaime le Bleu, Line Murken, Salomé Sperling, and Sijmen Vellekoop, highlights custom-designed and built elements, including a stainless-steel wrapped bed and ceiling-mounted paintings. The article also features the preserved bedroom of writer Anaïs Nin in Los Angeles, which has remained largely unchanged since her death in 1977. Textile designer Nathalie Farman-Farma’s Greenwich, Conn., guest bedroom combines a Japanese lamp, an antique French bed, and an American crocheted blanket, with walls and curtains in Décors Barbares' cotton percale Zénaide. Architect Valerio Olgiati’s Villa Além in Portugal showcases one of its nearly identical bedrooms. Designer Tiffany Howell’s Los Angeles home is represented by a bedroom featuring deep, saturated colors, including Portola Paints' Joshua Tree and an ink blue quilt. Architect and furniture designer Harry Nuriev’s Paris apartment includes a unique bedroom with mobile phones reimagined as mirrors and a duvet cover made from underwear. The upstate New York home of fashion stylist Thomas Christos Kikis and film producer Derek Curl features an Indian block-printed ceiling, Robert Kime wallpaper, and various rugs. The historic Lilla Hyttnäs, home of artists Carl and Karin Larsson in Sweden, displays Karin’s woven drapes. Guido Toschi and Massimo Rausa’s home near Turin, Italy, features a guest bedroom with 19th-century Piedmontese beds and roller-stamped pink walls. An artist’s house in Harlem presents a primary bedroom with a quilted curtain by Adam Pogue and a 19th-century Azerbaijani rug. Finally, the apartment of architects Carla Chávez and Nicolás Viteri in eastern Quito, Ecuador, and architect Rodolphe Parente’s Parisian apartment with custom brass-and-wool headboards are highlighted. The Milan apartment of interior designer Nicolò Castellini Baldissera and writer Christopher Garis showcases an 18th-century Genovese bed surrounded by souvenirs and portraits. #InteriorDesign #BedroomDesign #HomeDecor #GlobalInteriors #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryBedrooms #Styling #FurnitureDesign

The article highlights Kelly Clarkson's Wayfair collection, specifically focusing on pieces that emphasize texture to enhance home decor. It notes that during a sale period, much of Clarkson's New York-inspired collection is significantly discounted, with some items up to 80% off. The core theme of the curated selection is the importance of texture in making modern, minimalist, and neutral-colored interiors visually engaging and preventing them from appearing flat. The article showcases several specific items from the collection, detailing how their textures contribute to a well-curated living space. One example is a jute rug, which, despite its adaptable beige shade, maintains visual interest due to its subtle texture. Velvet items, such as an orange ottoman pouf with a fluted texture, are also featured, drawing attention to the resurgence of 1970s design elements. A deep purple velvet task chair with gold legs is presented as a luxurious and practical addition to an office space, demonstrating how texture can elevate even functional furniture. Further examples include a knitted throw blanket made from acrylic yarn, designed to bring a cozy and traditional feel to beds, sofas, or armchairs, with tasseled edges adding a decorative touch. A hand-braided large jute basket is highlighted for its relaxed aesthetic and utility in organizing household items. Additionally, a distressed table lamp with a concrete base combines a sturdy material with gentle paint strokes to create a textured effect, ensuring visual appeal despite its neutral color palette. Finally, a machine-woven linen area rug with a marble finish is described as a versatile piece suitable for various rooms, from the living room to the bedroom. The article emphasizes that these textured items are designed to complement neutral color schemes and sleek silhouettes, preventing spaces from feeling monotonous. The affordability of these pieces, with prices starting at $32.99, is also noted, particularly in the context of Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, indicating that these deals are temporary. The overall message is that incorporating textured elements from Kelly Clarkson's collection can transform a home into a cozy and visually rich sanctuary without a high cost. #KellyClarkson #Wayfair #HomeDecor #TexturedDecor #InteriorDesign #CelebrityStyle #FurnitureDeals #CozyLiving #BlackFridaySales

Interior designer Gillian Gillies's renovated kitchen in her North Toronto home, shared with husband Dean Einarson, became the heart of their living space. The design process began with a specific object: a Kohler Cape Dory enameled cast iron sink in 'thunder grey,' which served as the aesthetic foundation for the entire room. This approach reflects Gillies's design philosophy, where a beloved object acts as a crucible, inspiring the overall design and allowing other elements to play off it. The renovation of the kitchen was part of a larger, floor-by-floor overhaul of their home. Gillies, originally from Edinburgh, Scotland, moved to Toronto in 2003 after meeting Einarson in St. Lucia. Their house, while a dream come true, required extensive work. The gradual renovation allowed Gillies to experiment with different tradespeople, turning her home into a 'laboratory' for her design practice, which was new to the Canadian scene. The kitchen was one of the last areas to be addressed due to an existing deck that Gillies initially hesitated to remove, considering it wasteful. However, a practical necessity arose when she put her foot through one of the deck steps, prompting the decision to proceed with its removal. The renovation included a 50-square-foot addition, creating a small eating area that the couple affectionately calls their 'bistro.' Gillies describes her design philosophy as aiming for spaces that feel inviting and 'cocoon-like,' emphasizing the importance of 'nice, soft elements.' The kitchen design incorporates various textures and layers to achieve this effect. Full-length curtains, a long runner, and koi-patterned wallpaper from Osborne & Little contribute to a soft and neutral backdrop. The lighting scheme is diverse, featuring a chandelier from Lamp Cage in Toronto, egg-shaped ceiling-mounted fixtures from Circa Lighting, and sconces acquired during their honeymoon in Rome. Gillies highlights that styling pieces are crucial in bringing a space together. The strategic use of fabric, wallpaper, and toss pillows in her kitchen exemplifies this. Color is introduced through easily changeable accents, such as floral arrangements, a fish-emblazoned banquette pillow, and a landscape painting by artist Deborah Gibson. This allows for frequent refreshes, ensuring the space remains engaging and prevents monotony. Gillies jokingly notes that living with a designer means furniture is rarely in a fixed place, with all her pieces equipped with felt pads for easy rearrangement. The article also provides a 'Get the Look' section, listing specific products and their retailers, including the Kohler Cape Dory sink, Osborne & Little wallpaper, and various lighting fixtures and home decor items used in the kitchen design. #KitchenDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #TorontoHomes #DesignerKitchen #CastIronSink #HomeDecor #GillianGillies #FavoriteRoom

Designers Marita Simmons and Krysta Gibbons of Kipling House transformed a small, octagonal room in a historic Hinsdale home, originally presumed to be a gentleman's cigar room, into a dedicated ladies' lounge. The designers drew inspiration from the home's existing history, aiming to create a space for the modern woman to relax after a demanding week. The aesthetic features a deep purple paint on the walls, inspired by a Pierre Frey fabric with aubergine undertones. This rich color is contrasted with a custom peacock-blue banquette and matching Roman shades, establishing a vibrant and feminine atmosphere. To further tie into the room's former identity while reinterpreting it for a female audience, the designers incorporated metal wall motifs from Architectural Grille. These motifs were crafted to resemble a decorative bone inlay box, a subtle nod to the traditional cigar box, reimagined with an elegant touch. The room's purpose as a feminine retreat is clearly communicated through a prominent wall art piece depicting a reclining woman, suggesting relaxation and repose at the end of the day. This artwork reinforces the concept of the space as a personal haven. The lounge includes a functional sitting area where the designers ingeniously addressed space constraints. A swing-arm sconce was innovatively converted into a swing-arm drinks table by replacing its socket with a custom lazy Susan top, demonstrating a creative and practical approach to small-space design. This DIY solution maximizes utility without compromising the room's aesthetic appeal. Adjacent to the sitting area is a sophisticated dry bar, cleverly integrated into what was once an underused closet. The bar boasts luxurious finishes such as burl wood wallcovering, a merlot-leather bar top, brass banding, and stone shelves, creating a chic and functional nook for entertaining or personal enjoyment. The transformation extends to a powder room, which received a refresh with mossy green paint, an antique floor-to-ceiling mirror, and a custom pin-striped vanity skirt. This attention to detail across different areas of the space ensures a cohesive and refined design throughout the ladies' lounge. The article provides a comprehensive list of the key design elements and materials used in the renovation, including specific brands for chairs, dining table bases, stone tabletops, banquette fabric, rugs, stools, paint colors, wall details, and lighting. These details offer insight into the quality and style choices made by Kipling House. The overall project exemplifies how thoughtful design can reimagine historical spaces to meet contemporary needs, creating a luxurious and personalized retreat. #InteriorDesign #LadiesLounge #HomeRenovation #FeminineDecor #SmallSpaceDesign #LuxuryInteriors #KiplingHouse

The Kelly Clarkson Home Collection, launched in 2020 in collaboration with Wayfair, offers a diverse range of over 1,000 home furnishings and decor items. This collection caters to various spaces within a home, including bedrooms, offices, living rooms, dining areas, and outdoor spaces. The distinctive characteristic of the collection is its elegant, modern, yet cozy aesthetic, which sets it apart from other home collections available in the market. The items aim to blend contemporary design with a warm, inviting feel, appealing to a broad audience seeking both style and comfort in their living environments. Currently, many products from the Kelly Clarkson Home Collection are available at discounted prices. These savings are part of Wayfair’s ongoing promotions, such as warehouse closeout events and their Anniversary Sale, where items can be found with discounts of up to 60 percent off. For consumers who may not find an immediate purchase that suits their needs, the collection is continuously updated with new additions, ensuring a fresh selection of furniture and decor for various tastes and preferences. This ongoing refresh allows the collection to remain relevant and responsive to evolving home design trends. Among the highlighted items from the collection are several pieces designed for different areas of the home. For the bedroom, the Carlie Tufted Upholstered Low Profile Standard Bed and the Orellana Panel Headboard are featured, offering stylish and comfortable options for sleeping spaces. The Adrienne Tall Steel Vanity Stool is presented as a functional and elegant addition to a vanity area, combining utility with a sleek design. For living spaces, the Cheekwood Wide Square Abstract Pouf Ottoman provides versatile seating or a decorative accent, while the Concert Trestle Dining Table and Brittany Arm Chair are showcased for dining areas, emphasizing both communal gathering and individual comfort. Storage solutions are also addressed with the Acklen Iron Bookcase, which combines practicality with a modern industrial aesthetic. Lighting and environmental comfort are represented by the Alessandra 5 Blade Crystal Ceiling Fan, offering both illumination and air circulation with a touch of sophistication. For outdoor living, the Chantilly Long Reclining Single Chaise with Cushions and Table and the Lillian Polyethylene (PE) Wicker 2-Person Seating Group with Cushions provide options for relaxation and entertaining in exterior spaces, designed to withstand outdoor conditions while maintaining the collection's signature style. These selections collectively represent the breadth and aesthetic consistency of the Kelly Clarkson Home Collection. #KellyClarksonHome #Wayfair #HomeDecor #Furniture #InteriorDesign #HomeCollection #DiscountedFurniture #ModernHome #ElegantDesign

Interior designer Bee Osborn shares the story and design choices behind her idyllic country cottage in the Cotswolds, a home that became a permanent family residence during the pandemic. The article details the extensive, yet thoughtful, renovations undertaken to transform a tired three-bedroom property into a warm, stylish, and functional living space. Osborn emphasizes the use of texture, natural materials, and practical space-saving solutions throughout the house. The renovation began with the property itself, which had been in the same family for years and was in need of updating. Osborn, initially looking for a rental, stumbled upon the cottage and felt an immediate connection, likening it to her childhood home. She purchased and moved into the cottage with her builders, who started gutting and rewiring the property immediately. The transformation of the kitchen is highlighted, where a tiny original kitchen was expanded by integrating an accessible barn. Osborn decided to maintain the barn's original sunken level and natural walls, creating a unique feature. Reclaimed materials were extensively used, including an old kitchen floor for the roof and a stripped-down original Crittall window that now forms doors. The flooring in the kitchen is 'Barnwood Floor' from Osborn Interiors, and the cabinets were custom-made by a local joiner with a natural, raw wood finish. High-end pendant lights from Pinch were a significant investment, balancing the rustic elements with smart design. The kitchen also features a TV snug with L-shaped seating made from repurposed fence planks, equipped with built-in USB plugs, and a mirrored TV from Picture Frame TV with a custom-painted frame. The dining room boasts a large, custom-made pendant from Hadeda, serving as a focal point within a nine-circuit lighting scheme that creates subtle pools of light. The main attraction is a resin and 10-year-old oak table, meticulously crafted over four months, which has proven both beautiful and practical. The Blue Room, inspired by an inky off-black wall in a previous office, features a sofabed custom-made to fit the space and contrasting with the dark wall color. Despite planning permission issues for French windows, a large window was installed. Linen fabrics, leather, and wicker are used throughout, reflecting Osborn's preference for natural materials. The living room maintains its original fireplace, with versatile hampers and baskets serving as storage and side tables. The paint color in this room is a custom mix, and artwork is sourced from antique markets. The master suite, initially a small room with limited space, underwent a significant redesign. Osborn removed the fireplace and stained glass window to reorient the bed and create space for an en-suite bathroom. The bedroom connects visually with the downstairs through wood-clad ceilings and walls from a reclamation center, and hidden cupboards are integrated throughout. The en-suite bathroom includes a second-hand eBay bath and discreetly placed loo. Expensive Porta Romana lights and Anthropologie wardrobe handles add luxurious touches. All bedrooms feature 100% linen sheets for a relaxed aesthetic. Finally, an outdoor 'Pod' by Sandman Homes, measuring 3m x 5m, is made from reclaimed wood, features a wildflower roof, an electric wood burner, and collected baskets, providing an additional charming space. Osborn's design philosophy prioritizes natural materials, thoughtful construction, and practical solutions, creating a harmonious and personalized home. Osborn's work can be further explored through her Instagram and website, OsbornInteriors.com. #InteriorDesign #CotswoldsCottage #HomeRenovation #NaturalMaterials #SustainableDesign #ReclaimedWood #SpaceSavingSolutions #CountryLiving #BeeOsborn

Interior designer Traci Connell, recognized as a 2022 Best Designer, shares insights into her personal home, which she inhabits with her husband, Michael McDonald. Their residence, marked by distinctive architectural features like a C-shaped floorplan, triangular windows, and angled ceilings, previously housed a series of architects. Connell's design philosophy for her own living space prioritizes a "neutrals and natural" aesthetic, diverging from the vibrant palettes she often employs in her professional work. She describes her home as a place that "breathes a sigh of relief," filled with blacks, whites, creams, and subtle hints of greens and camel tones. This approach allows her to unwind from the constant creative demands of her profession, where she is frequently surrounded by color. A core aspect of Connell's design strategy involves a strategic blend of high-end, custom-made pieces with more affordable, ready-made items from large retailers such as Crate & Barrel, CB2, and Ikea. She emphasizes that while her clients seek custom designs, certain foundational and utilitarian items can be sourced from big-box stores without compromising the overall sophisticated look. This combination prevents the space from feeling overly formal or "stuffy," creating an environment that is both visually appealing and highly practical. Connell explains that everything in her home is meticulously curated, showcasing how accessible items can be elevated when paired with bespoke elements. The couple moved into their home four years prior, just before their wedding. Following a house fire, they embarked on a multi-phase renovation, transforming the adversity into an opportunity for fresh design. Despite the fire, Connell preserved original elements like the brick floors. She maintained her neutral color scheme, selectively introducing rich pops of color, such as deep greens or aubergines, in unexpected areas. Her rationale for a predominantly neutral interior is that the vibrant personalities and attire of guests often introduce enough color, aligning with her desire for a relatively quiet and serene backdrop. Connell highlights several specific design choices throughout her home. In the kitchen, original features like the hood, range, and silestone countertops were retained, while cabinetry was redone and striking rift-cut wood details were added. She incorporated Olympia white marble for the islands and backsplash, a personal indulgence. The dining room, in contrast to the overall neutral theme, features a dramatic grasscloth wallpapered ceiling, reflecting Connell's inclination to "push limits a little bit" as a designer. The family office embraces all-black walls, made possible by abundant natural light, and includes colorful original art, a vintage Sutherland desk, and lacquered green bookcases from Scout Design Studio. The master bedroom showcases a black-and-white aesthetic with bedding from Peacock Alley and Harlequin fabric accent pillows, alongside nightstands from Currey & Co. and lamps by Arteriors. The bathroom features a distinctive wallcovering that mimics tile and a durable porcelain flooring, completed with a Stone Forest sink and a Made Goods mirror. The family room, a testament to her love for nature and neutrals, is bathed in warm ivory tones, complemented by exposed brick floors and various plants. It features a custom sectional by Hickory Chair, swivel chairs from Four Hands, and a Feizy rug, along with a beloved bar area where Connell and her husband enjoy their "Martini Friday" tradition. The article includes a Q&A section where Connell elaborates on her philosophy of mixing high and low-priced pieces, stressing the importance of removing overly popular mass-market items from design presentations to maintain a unique, custom aesthetic for her clients. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #TraciConnell #DallasHomes #NeutralPalette #LuxuryDesign #AffordableDecor #HomeRenovation #DesignPhilosophy

The Kardashian-Jenner family is widely recognized for their preference for pared-back color palettes, a design philosophy that extends from their fashion lines to their interior decorating choices. Kylie Jenner's family room serves as a prime example of this aesthetic, showcasing a tonal gray scheme that is both chic and dynamic, intentionally avoiding the 'Millennial Gray' trend often associated with outdated interiors. This sophisticated space, designed by Martyn Lawrence Bullard, demonstrates how a monochromatic palette can achieve depth and visual interest through the strategic application of textural layering. Kylie Jenner’s family room is characterized by its luxurious elements, including a large book-matched stone fireplace and a Ralph Pucci swing chaise. The chosen gray tones lean towards silver and platinum, creating a celeb-coded ambiance. Custom-designed mirrored consoles from Martyn Bullard's atelier further enhance the room's opulent feel. Despite its reliance on a single color, the room successfully conveys dimension and visual appeal, primarily due to the careful selection and layering of diverse textures. Interior designer Elana Mendelson highlights the effective use of texture in Jenner's living space, explaining that it transforms a monochromatic palette from flat to dynamic. The stone fireplace, with its polished surface and organic patterns, acts as a compelling focal point, introducing warmth and depth to an otherwise cool-toned environment. Complementing the stone, various soft textiles, such as a plush area rug and a fur throw pillow, contribute to softening the visual impact and enhancing the room's comfort. These elements collectively underscore the importance of material and finish variation within a singular color scheme. Beyond just texture, the success of the room also lies in its clever application of tonal decorating. Interior designer and paint expert Tila Lee points out that the nuanced shades of gray, all possessing similar undertones, prevent the space from falling into the 'Millennial Gray' stereotype. This approach involves layering different shades of gray that share the same undertone, which helps to create visual interest without making the room appear overly busy. Lee emphasizes that matching undertones is crucial for a cohesive gray scheme, as mixing different undertones (e.g., green and blue) can result in a discordant appearance. To further elevate the room's sophistication, metallic finishes are incorporated. Tila Lee notes that silver accents are particularly well-suited to Kylie's cool-toned palette. While gold could be used in schemes with warmer undertones and accent colors, silver complements the existing grays beautifully. Ultimately, the design of Kylie Jenner's family room serves as a masterclass in achieving a dynamic and visually rich monochromatic space through the thoughtful layering of textures, careful consideration of tonal variations, and the strategic use of metallic accents. #KylieJenner #CelebrityHomes #GrayInteriors #MonochromaticDesign #TexturalLayering #InteriorDesign #LuxuryDecor #MartynLawrenceBullard #TonalDecorating

The article details a living room renovation project undertaken by Vy Yang, the Senior Contributing Editor at Design Milk, in collaboration with interior designer Alex Yeske. The goal was to transform a previously sterile, neutral, and disorganized living space into a functional and aesthetically cohesive environment that caters to both adults and children. Before the renovation, the room suffered from a lack of design cohesion, characterized by neutral furnishings, no rug, and an overwhelming presence of children's items, leading to a cluttered and unbalanced feel. Yang identified several pain points, including the lack of distinct functional zones for adult relaxation and child play. Designer Alex Yeske developed three initial layouts, which were refined through discussions to accommodate the family's needs, particularly the presence of toddlers. The final design scheme aimed to address these issues by introducing warmth, defining spaces, and incorporating personalized touches. A crucial initial step was repainting the north-facing room with Backdrop's 'Moon Ritual', a warm gray-beige, to counteract the dingy effect of the previous white paint. The fireplace mantle and bricks were also refreshed with Backdrop’s 'Supermoon' white paint, and custom cabinetry, initially envisioned, was substituted with Room & Board's Keaton Bookcases in white oak due to budget constraints and lead times, offering a custom look with added portability. The centerpiece of the room became a Sixpenny Gabriel corner sectional in Quiet Sage, chosen for its comfort, quality, and sophisticated color. The fabric, a French flax linen, was selected after careful consideration of a feather-down fill sourced ethically from the food industry. To balance the room's many square elements, a round Field Round Coffee Table from Sundays Furniture in walnut was introduced, providing a safer, low-profile option for children. Two straw cushions were added for toddlers at the coffee table to encourage proper seating during snack times. Custom drapery from Everhem, paired with Woven Wood shades in Khaki, added texture and warmth, coordinating with a rush straw rug from Shop Rush House. The drapery featured a discontinued Pindler fabric, which Alex Yeske painstakingly sourced, and custom accent pillows were made from unique fabrics by Fabricut and Schumacher, reflecting a personalized aesthetic despite the cost. A gallery wall was curated with pieces from Artfully Walls, a vintage geometric print, a 'Learning From Japan' print from the Design Museum in Copenhagen, and an original floral ink print by Molly Fitzpatrick of DittoHouse, allowing for future additions. A dedicated children's nook was created with an Ecobirdy table and chairs, made from recycled plastic toys, and a Duc Duc Indi bench for storage and play. This designated area fostered autonomy for the children and helped contain toys. An entryway drop-off zone was designed around a Jayson Home Carnegie Chest of Drawers, complemented by a vintage table from Facebook Marketplace and chocolate brown Moroccan zellige tiles from Zia Tile, blending old-world charm with modern elements. The Amélie light fixture from Cedar & Moss with a walnut canopy further unified the space's aesthetic. The finished living room achieved a harmonious blend of "coastal grandma meets graphic designer" vibes, balancing contemporary furnishings and art with classic and vintage items, creating a comfortable and inviting environment for the entire family. #InteriorDesign #LivingRoomRefresh #HomeFurnishings #AlexYeske #CustomDesign #FamilyFriendlyDesign #RoomBoard #ShopifyApp #GalleryWall

The article presents an insider's guide featuring Kate Regan, the interior designer behind The Sitting Room, an Excelsior-based design studio and home-furnishings boutique established 15 years ago. Regan shares her preferences and insights across various design elements and inspirations, reflecting her studio's reputation for a timeless yet fresh aesthetic. Regan emphasizes the importance of texture in interior design, advocating for the mixing of different materials to create depth and comfort. She suggests combining lightweight linen with aged velvet for fabric, and anchoring a room with a densely woven wool rug, comparing its comfort to a cable-knit sweater. The integration of organic materials such as rattan or seagrass is also recommended, with a specific mention of the Palecek modern wing chair as an example. Regarding paint color, Regan highlights Benjamin Moore Gray Owl (OC-52) as a versatile neutral that adapts to different lighting conditions, appearing gray, blue, or sea glass. She notes its ability to complement accent colors like berry, cobalt, and yellow, lending a fresh and crisp yet warm feel to rooms. For patterns, Regan indicates that many of her designs originate from a "magic fabric" with an inspiring color palette, citing a new Schumacher fabric as a prime example she is eager to incorporate into future projects. Her favored design era is the Sixties Palm Beach style, admired for its vibrant color palettes, organic materials, and a happy, casual yet cool and sophisticated vibe. In terms of home technology, Regan admits to not being high-tech but appreciates the practical utility of Google Home as a personal DJ. She finds inspiration through digital platforms like Instagram and Pinterest for idea translation, and especially through travel, recalling the charming architecture and natural beauty of Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina. When it comes to designing specific rooms, Regan enjoys creating kids' spaces, as they allow for greater creative freedom and the playful combination of multiple patterns and textures, provided the materials are durable. For a luxurious touch that remains approachable, she recommends a beautifully monogrammed cashmere throw in any room. Her overarching design philosophy, or mantra, is to create spaces that are both beautiful and livable. #InteriorDesign #HomeFurnishings #KateRegan #TheSittingRoom #DesignInspiration #Texture #PaintColor #DesignEra #HomeDecor

This article details the interior design process of a 10,000-square-foot Houston, Texas estate by designer Courtney Hill Fertitta. The primary design challenge involved making each room distinct while maintaining a cohesive overarching theme throughout the home. Fertitta addressed this by replacing door and window details with a nude trim, creating a neutral base for individual room designs. The two-story entryway serves as a grand focal point and establishes the design direction for the downstairs area. It features a light and bright aesthetic, with a bold color pop that influenced the patterned rug in the adjacent family room. This strategic use of color and texture allows for a visual progression from one space to the next. The downstairs continues this bold theme with a purple-toned office, a green-walled library, and a living room with gold accents. High ceilings presented an opportunity for creative lighting and wall color choices. Fertitta incorporated a large glass chandelier in the entry, along with subtle pendant lights in the kitchen and sleek gold fixtures in a guest bedroom. Many of the lighting fixtures are vintage, having been sourced early in the project to fulfill various aesthetic and functional requirements. Layered lighting is emphasized for its ability to adapt to mood and external conditions. The design heavily utilizes patterns and textural details, carefully balanced to avoid overwhelming the formal spaces while ensuring comfort for a family with young children. A key principle was to highlight one patterned or colored element in a room, complementing it with rich, saturated tones. This approach is evident in the dining room, where scenic wallpaper is paired with softer fabrics. Smaller areas within the home, such as two bar areas, allowed for more design risks while still adhering to the overall theme. The downstairs bar, connected to a bright kitchen with metallic accents, incorporates reflective back-painted glass and open shelving. The upstairs coffee bar, attached to a brown and neutral-toned guest bedroom, features suede wallpaper, gold accents, and hidden storage to add sophistication and visual interest. Fertitta's favorite room is the sophisticated green library, which also functions as a casual dining space. This multipurpose room was designed with a focus on lighting, furniture, cozy accents, and a grand scale. Elements such as tortoiseshell wallpaper behind bookcases, a large chandelier, wooden chairs, and a patterned wall were combined. To prevent visual clutter, different shades of a single color were used, and natural light from French doors contributes to a calming atmosphere. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryHome #HoustonDesign #CourtneyHillFertitta #GlamorousInteriors #DesignInspiration #MultipurposeRooms

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