'It is a shade we return to time and time again' – why designers love Farrow & Ball's quietly indulgent Pointing

The article highlights Farrow & Ball's 'Skimming Stone' paint shade as a versatile and popular neutral for home interiors. This greige hue, described as a warm, light gray with subtle lilac undertones, offers a balanced appeal, making it suitable for various design aesthetics, from maximalist to muted palettes. Its ability to create a soothing and inviting atmosphere without appearing sterile has garnered widespread appreciation among interior designers. Skimming Stone derives its name from a 19th-century plaster color, evoking a nostalgic quality reminiscent of modern limewash finishes. It occupies an 'in-between' position in Farrow & Ball's Contemporary Neutrals collection, bridging the gap between cooler tones like Strong White and warmer mid-grays such as Elephant's Breath. This unique positioning contributes to its adaptability, allowing it to harmonize with a broad spectrum of colors and materials. Interior designers consistently praise Skimming Stone for its chameleon-like qualities. Elissa Hall of Awning notes its ability to neutralize and harmonize rooms without being too 'frigid' or 'earthy.' Anna Tatsioni of Decorilla emphasizes its perfect balance between gray and beige, creating a modern yet timeless appeal. Jen Stevens of Fonde Interiors highlights its inviting warmth, which is often challenging to achieve with other neutral shades. Regarding application, Skimming Stone is well-suited for bedrooms and living rooms due to its calming nature, fostering a sense of serenity. It also performs exceptionally well in transitional spaces, seamlessly adapting to different color palettes throughout the home and maintaining a cohesive flow. Its compatibility with natural materials like marble and wood makes it an excellent choice for kitchen cabinetry and bathrooms, where it can enhance natural light. The article also explores color pairings that complement Skimming Stone. Designers recommend combining it with warmer dark browns, rich terracottas, and natural materials like French limestone to create a sophisticated and grounded palette. Patrick O'Donnell, a Farrow & Ball paint expert, suggests pairing it with London Clay, plum, and wine reds such as Brinjal for a deeper contrast. For those preferring jewel tones, navy accents can add depth and sophistication. Alternatively, a softer, layered approach can be achieved with gentle blues, delicate blush pinks, crisp whites, watery teals for subdued contrasts, or mild buttery creams for tonal layering. Dramatic effects can be created by pairing it with strong accents like Farrow & Ball's Hague Blue on built-in features. Styling with Skimming Stone focuses on layering textures and incorporating diverse elements. The neutral backdrop accommodates rich and heavy materials, encouraging the use of different fabrics and finishes. Combining contrasting prints in soft furnishings can create a cozy and eclectic feel. The shade also provides an ideal canvas for mixing vintage and modern pieces, tying together items from different eras and locations. Natural elements like wooden furniture, greenery, wood flooring, and stone accents further enhance its appeal, while metallic fixtures or bold furniture in darker tones can balance the look. Finally, the article advocates for 'color drenching' with Skimming Stone, applying the paint to an entire room. This technique, a prominent interior design trend, allows the subtle nature of Skimming Stone to create an immersive and cohesive environment, transforming the space with a sophisticated and intentional design. This approach ensures the color's full impact is realized, offering a gorgeous greige update to any home. #FarrowAndBall #SkimmingStone #GreigePaint #NeutralColors #InteriorDesign #PaintTrends #HomeDecor #ColorDrenching #DesignTips

The article highlights the recent launch of Farrow & Ball's new paint color collection, a significant event in the interior design calendar given the brand's infrequent releases. These new shades are presented as reflecting the current mood of 2023, which favors transforming homes into spaces that are both restful and imbued with character. Joa Studholme, Color Curator for Farrow & Ball, emphasizes that the timing of this launch is opportune, as people are increasingly ready to express their personal style within their homes. The new palette encompasses a range of hues, from neutral taupes and powdery pinks to rich smoky greys and fresh greens. Several prominent interior designers offer their perspectives on this new collection. Eva Sonaike, known for her bold use of color, commends the compatibility and versatility of the new Farrow & Ball shades, noting their characteristic powdery softness. Her personal favorite from the collection is Eddy, which she envisions as an elegant neutral capable of complementing brighter colors. However, she expresses caution regarding Hopper Head, a darker grey, suggesting its use for proportional work, feature walls, or shelving to add depth, due to the inherent challenges of decorating with grey tones. Amy Youngblood, an advocate for calming neutral color schemes, believes the new palette aligns perfectly with the growing popularity of the organic modern style. She highlights how these warmer-toned cool colors harmoniously blend with natural woods and stones, materials increasingly prevalent in contemporary interiors. Youngblood sees the collection as striking a balance between playfulness and calm, recommending the more neutral shades for overall room painting and the vibrant ones for accent walls. Pip Rich, Editor of Livingetc, reflects on Farrow & Ball's history of releasing trend-setting colors. He predicts that certain shades from this new collection will become defining elements in home decoration for years to come. Specifically, he identifies Templeton Pink, a subtler version of Sulking Room Pink, and Kittiwake, a soft blue-grey, along with the rich Wine Dark, as strong contenders for widespread popularity, anticipating their immediate adoption in his own home and in featured designs. Anastasia Casey of Identite Collective, who specializes in naturally calming designs, observes a shift away from bright, minimalist spaces towards a cozier aesthetic with European influences. She suggests using Selvedge or Beverly for painted kitchen cabinets to introduce color while maintaining a fresh and timeless appeal. Casey also notes that while white walls remain popular, subtle contrasts on millwork and trim are gaining traction, recommending Stirabout as an ideal warm neutral for this purpose. Bethany Adams, a self-professed Farrow & Ball enthusiast, anticipates a strong demand for these nurturing tones, believing they resonate with people's desire for calm, creativity, and comfort in their homes. She points to Tailor Tack and Templeton Pink as evidence of the enduring appeal of blush hues, while also finding inspiration in the greens and blues like Kittiwake and Eddy. Cristina Lehman of C.Lehman Home appreciates the mature and muted interpretation of classic colors within the palette. She favors the neutral colors such as Stirabout, Tailor Tack, and Templeton Pink, as well as the cool and calming shades like Kittiwake, Eddy, Whirlybird, and Selvedge, particularly for offices and bedrooms, including children's spaces. For creating moody atmospheres, Lehman recommends Hopper Head and Wine Dark, noting Hopper Head's position between existing popular dark shades like Railing and Down Pipe, making it a versatile choice for entryways, studies, or small powder rooms. #FarrowAndBall #PaintColors #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #ColorPalettes #DesignerInsights #NeutralColors #ModernInteriors #2023Trends

The article explores the rising popularity of Alpi Sottsass wood veneer in interior design, a material created by acclaimed designer Ettore Sottsass in 1985 and manufactured by Italian company Alpi. This veneer, known for its distinctive grainy and groovy pattern, is gaining traction as an alternative to traditional plywood, particularly in kitchen designs and furniture. Designers are drawn to its unique aesthetic, which some describe as resembling a zebra pattern or sand waves. Eline De Bruyne, a Belgium-based teacher and interiors enthusiast, incorporated Alpi Sottsass into her kitchen, seeking a designer furniture-like appearance for her storage units. This choice reflects a broader appreciation for the material among those who admire the Memphis movement of the 1980s. While Alpi collaborates with several designers like Patricia Urquiola and Kengo Kuma, the Sottsass design, especially in its gray colorway, is becoming increasingly prevalent in contemporary projects. Magda Kwoczka of Finch Studio, based in Poland, has notably used the Sottsass product in multiple areas within a single apartment. The manufacturing process of Alpi veneers begins with FSC-certified wood, typically poplar, limewood, or ayous, sourced from forests in Cameroon. This wood is then transported to Alpi's plant in Modigliana, Italy, where it undergoes a detailed sequence of stripping, dyeing, compositing, gluing, pressing, squaring, shearing, and testing. For U.S. customers, Brookside Veneers acts as the primary distributor for the Ettore Sottsass Alpi wood, with orders requiring direct contact through a request form or sales agent rather than online purchasing. While the ordering process is manageable, interior designer Dawid Konieczny notes that it can take approximately four to five weeks for delivery. A significant factor to consider is the cost, which is provided upon request from Alpi. Konieczny highlights that Sottsass veneer is considerably more expensive, roughly five times the price of simple white oak. Despite the higher price point, designers like Konieczny and Kwoczka justify the investment due to the veneer's originality and the prestige associated with its designer. The material's versatility means it can be used in various interior applications, with the only limitation being its unsuitability for outdoor, non-weatherproof environments. Designers are finding innovative ways to integrate Alpi Sottsass veneer into their projects. Dawid Konieczny, for instance, used it to construct a bed frame in a Warsaw home, drawing inspiration from desert landscapes. Magda Kwoczka showcases its effectiveness when juxtaposed with materials like Calacatta Viola marble, creating a captivating interplay of patterns. Architect Matt Bowles of Tenbooks plans to use the veneer in kitchens to contrast with the solidity of stone countertops, appreciating its departure from conventional linear-grained hardwood products. Dustin Fritsche of Softer Studio discovered the material's potential in smaller furniture pieces, noting its significant visual impact even in limited applications, such as a sideboard in a living room. Its malleability, owing to its thin-sliced nature, also allows for the creation of curved surfaces, as demonstrated by Kwoczka's rounded cabinets in a home office and De Bruyne's kitchen doors, which effectively conceal various items while adding an element of wonder to the built environment. #AlpiSottsassVeneer #EttoreSottsassDesign #MemphisMovement #WoodVeneerTrends #InteriorDesignMaterials #KitchenRenovation #FurnitureDesign #DesignerWood #HomeDecor

The perception of gallery walls as a dated decor trend has been challenged by designer Sara Simon's approach in a Greenwich Village townhouse. Previously dismissed for being cluttered or belonging to an older design era, Simon's work demonstrates that with thoughtful execution, gallery walls can achieve a timeless aesthetic. Simon's design, featured in a $23 million New York City townhouse, utilizes a gallery wall composed entirely of black-and-white photography, primarily depicting musicians and cultural icons. This choice of a consistent monochrome palette is crucial in unifying the diverse images, making the wall appear cohesive despite its varied content. The images, such as The Beatles meeting Muhammad Ali or Frank Sinatra mid-shave, possess a vintage quality without being anchored to a specific decade, allowing them to blend seamlessly. Scale is another critical element in Simon's design. Recognizing the height of the walls in the parlor room, she incorporated a mix of large and smaller frames to fill the entire space, avoiding a rigid, grid-like appearance. This approach creates an animated feel that harmonizes with the room's vintage furniture and the home's historical character. Simon intentionally avoided perfectly aligned frames, opting for a more organic and dynamic arrangement to enhance this effect. To further unify the eclectic collection, Simon chose consistent wood frames throughout the gallery wall. While she emphasizes that matching frames are not a strict rule, this choice contributed to the overall harmony of this particular installation. She believes that the true success of a gallery wall lies in its ability to reflect the personality and interests of the homeowner, describing it as an expression of the individual's life and perspective. Simon highlights that her design principles are not rigid doctrines but rather adaptable strategies. She acknowledges that in her own home, she employs a gallery wall that mixes photographs, paintings, and various colors. This flexibility underscores the idea that customization and personal relevance are key to making a gallery wall timeless and meaningful. The setting of Greenwich Village, known for its artistic and eccentric residents, further supports the notion that a personalized, art-filled environment feels perfectly at home. In addition to the main gallery wall concept, the article provides several product suggestions for readers looking to create their own gallery walls. These include a pre-curated set of varied frames for an eclectic look, a bold colored print to make a statement, a consistent geometric frame for a cohesive feel, and a vintage-inspired photographic print. The article also touches upon incorporating tiny art and utilizing matted frames to give casual snapshots a sense of authority. It concludes by suggesting the inclusion of vintage tapestries as an emerging trend in art and decor, potentially integrating them into a gallery wall for added texture and interest. #GalleryWalls #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #ArtCollection #BlackAndWhitePhotography #PersonalStyle #TimelessDesign

Farrow & Ball's Wimborne White is highlighted as an exceptionally popular and versatile off-white paint color, favored by interior designers and color specialists. The article delves into the characteristics that make this shade so appealing for various home aesthetics, from modern to traditional. It is described as a 'just off white' with a subtle yellow undertone, contributing to a warmer and cozier feel compared to pure whites like Farrow & Ball's All White. Patrick O'Donnell, a color expert at Farrow & Ball, characterizes Wimborne White as an 'empathetic white' due to its inherent warmth. This quality allows it to brighten and expand a room without imparting a cold or sterile ambiance, a common issue with some cooler white paints. Interior designer Betsy Wentz emphasizes its role as a neutral, suitable for a wide range of applications including walls, ceilings, trim, and cabinets. To maximize the perception of space and brightness, Patrick O'Donnell suggests a 'color-drenching' approach, where Wimborne White is extended from the walls onto the ceiling, avoiding contrasting colors that might visually break up the space. This technique enhances the expansive and fresh feel the paint offers. The subtle warmth of Wimborne White is crucial to its appeal, preventing spaces from feeling stark while still achieving a bright, clean aesthetic. Interior designer Kyle O'Donnell, who has used Wimborne White in his own living room, praises its consistent warmth regardless of ambient light. This makes it an excellent choice for social areas where an inviting atmosphere is desired. The article outlines three specific areas in a home where Wimborne White can be effectively utilized. Firstly, in a living room, it serves as a classic and understated backdrop that allows for vibrant furniture and decor elements to stand out, maintaining a light and airy feel. Secondly, for bedrooms, Wimborne White's gentle quality is ideal for fostering a calming and relaxing environment, free from stimulating colors. Patrick O'Donnell notes its ability to beautifully reflect light, contributing to a serene sleep space. Lastly, in bathrooms, this off-white provides the desired brightness without the clinical starkness often associated with cooler whites, ensuring a tranquil and inviting atmosphere. The warm undertones prevent the space from feeling cold, making it a timeless choice for bathroom decor. #FarrowAndBall #WimborneWhite #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #HomeDecor #NeutralPalette #WarmWhites #LivingRoomDesign #BedroomDesign #BathroomDesign

The article explores the growing popularity of Farrow & Ball's 'Hague Blue' paint color among interior designers, highlighting its unique qualities that make it a versatile and sought-after shade. Dark, moody colors are increasingly favored for introducing personality into living spaces, and 'Hague Blue' stands out as a sophisticated choice. While blue is generally associated with serenity, the dramatic, dark undertones of 'Hague Blue' elevate it to a stylish and impactful option. Patrick O'Donnell, a Farrow & Ball ambassador and paint expert, describes 'Hague Blue' as a 'moody shade' that is a 'true treat in any room.' Unlike colder blues that might resemble 'millennial gray' or overly dark hues that can be daunting, 'Hague Blue' possesses green and yellow undertones. These undertones infuse the color with warmth and vibrancy, preventing it from feeling stark or uninviting. This characteristic makes it suitable for various rooms and lighting conditions. The paint's name is derived from the colored woodwork often seen in Dutch interiors, and Farrow & Ball suggests its effectiveness as a trim color or an accent on walls. Its versatility is attributed to the warmth it imparts, making it equally effective in naturally lit living rooms and darker spaces that receive minimal sunlight. Interior designer Amy Jones of Greta-Mae Interior Design affirms its ability to bring depth and warmth, transforming functional rooms into sophisticated ones, and has successfully utilized it in bathrooms, bedrooms, and living areas. 'Hague Blue' is adaptable for diverse spaces due to its dark yet warm nature. O'Donnell notes its suitability for north-facing rooms, as its green undertones prevent it from feeling too cold. Similar to navy blue, it functions as a universal shade, fitting well with existing navy blue living room, kitchen cabinet, and bedroom ideas. Its deep saturation creates drama while maintaining blue's inherent tranquility. The color is particularly effective in smaller areas like entryways, powder rooms, and mudrooms, where its intensity can create a striking visual impact. Amy Jones explains that 'Hague Blue' was chosen for a particular bathroom design for its classic, timeless quality, which beautifully complements the space. The rich, deep tone adds a sense of luxury and provides a strong contrast to crisp white sanitaryware. For complementary colors, O'Donnell advises pairing 'Hague Blue' with an empathetic white, such as Farrow & Ball's 'Old White,' rather than a stark clean white, to soften the contrast and ensure harmonious integration. Benjamin Moore's 'Swiss Coffee,' a yellow-tinted white, is also suggested as a beautiful complement. Given its warm undertones, 'Hague Blue' can function as a neutral in color schemes, similar to navy blue and deep olive greens. Its position on the color wheel, opposite orange, means that warmer tones will generally complement it well. Suggested complementary shades include Farrow & Ball's 'India Yellow' and 'Pink Ground,' as well as Benjamin Moore's 'Kona.' Styling 'Hague Blue' in a home offers various possibilities. This cozy paint color is a dramatic yet easy pairing for different design styles. Its resemblance to navy gives it a traditional and vintage-inspired appeal, evoking a sense of nostalgia. Amy Jones highlights its depth, making it an ideal backdrop for layering patterns and textures to add character and warmth. For a contemporary look, color-drenching walls and trim in 'Hague Blue' creates a dramatic yet chic statement without overwhelming the space. For a more subtle introduction, incorporating 'Hague Blue'-inspired decor, such as throw pillows or vases, can add a touch of this dramatic yet soothing shade. #HagueBlue #FarrowAndBall #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #HomeDecor #ColorSchemes #DesignTrends #NavyBlue #WarmUndertones

Fringe, a popular feature on recent fashion runways, is now emerging as a significant trend in home decor, reflecting a desire for modern elegance, glamour, ornamentation, embellishment, maximalism, and romance in interior spaces. Designers note that fringe, ranging from delicate eyelash to bold bullion, can add texture, depth, and movement, bridging traditional decor with contemporary flair. This article explores 20 creative ways to incorporate fringe into various areas of the home. Ottomans are ideal for experimenting with fringe due to their smaller size, with long leather fringe capable of elevating a standard ottoman into a focal point. For open floor plans, semi-transparent fringe can serve as a room divider, offering separation while maintaining an open feel. Options include beaded, metal, natural fiber, silk, or velvet fringes, installed via mounted tracks, fixed panels, or tension rods. Lighting fixtures, such as chandeliers and lampshades, can incorporate fringe in various colors, thicknesses, and materials, creating a statement piece and diffusing light to produce a cozy ambiance. Decorative fringe can also be applied to wallpaper to create architectural details, similar to wood molding, particularly with grasscloth wallcovering. Window treatments can be enhanced with fringe detailing, adding softness and visual interest, whether through subtle trims on Roman shades or dramatic tassel fringes on drapery. Mirrors with unique shapes and textured frames can be adorned with fringe, such as a long fringe draping down the sides of a leather-framed mirror. Pillows are an easy way to incorporate the trend without a significant commitment, transforming ordinary pillows into art pieces with brush, tassel, or caterpillar fringe in contrasting colors. Ceiling accents, like fringes draped along beams, introduce unexpected sophistication, warmth, and texture, using materials such as silk, velvet, wool, or metallic fringes. Sofas benefit from bullion or brush fringe, which adds a chic, custom look while concealing furniture legs. End tables can be skirted with fringe, mounted at the edge of the tabletop, to add movement and charm. On bedding, fringe can be applied to bedskirts, pillowcases, or canopy treatments, creating a focal point or transforming bed frames into luxurious statement pieces. Throw blankets with fringe are a simple and low-commitment way to introduce texture and movement to a space, making a standard blanket more appealing. Tablescapes are also embracing fringe, with trim appearing on runners, placemats, and cloth napkins. A fringed tablecloth offers an easy, less permanent way to experiment with the trend for various occasions. Shelving accents can feature slim brush fringe on the edge of shelves, tying colors together and adding a whimsical touch, especially in children's rooms. Drawer hardware can be adorned with trim and tassels, adding a layer of luxury, texture, and accentuating room colors, even on interior door knobs for a boudoir feel. Fringed rugs and runners provide a simple way to refresh a space and add a trendy element without major renovation. They blend traditional charm with modern aesthetics, and runners can elongate spaces while updating kitchen decor. Banquettes can become focal points with heavyweight bullion or roped fringe applied to their base perimeter, or welt trims for contrasting color. Wall hangings, from tapestries to framed art, can incorporate fringe to add three-dimensional texture, depth, and tactile engagement. Chairs can be elevated with a fringed skirt or tassel fringe added to the bottom, offering a facelift through reupholstering. Finally, staircases can be dramatically embellished with fringe on risers or along the banister, using metal grommets for added detail. Many fringe applications can be DIY projects using glue guns or Velcro, making it an accessible trend for home enthusiasts. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #FringeDecor #TextileTrends #DecoratingIdeas #DIYHomeDecor #HomeStyling #Maximalism

This article highlights the preferred Farrow & Ball paint colors of interior designers, showcasing a range from moody blues to delicate neutrals, all known for their rich pigments and liveable qualities. Farrow & Ball is a highly recommended brand in interior design due to its distinctive color palette and high-quality paint formulas. Given the extensive selection of colors available, selecting the right one for home decor can be challenging. To assist homeowners, several interior designers share their most frequently used and favored Farrow & Ball shades, providing insights into how these colors can transform various spaces. The featured colors include 'Middle Ground,' an archive color described as a warm blue, ideal for south-facing rooms where it creates a calming backdrop that changes beautifully with the light throughout the day. Alice Gaskell of Alice Grace Interiors particularly favors this shade for bedrooms, noting its unique blue-green balance that complements warm wooden tones. Another popular choice is the combination of 'Mizzle' and 'Down Pipe.' Nadia Watts, a Denver-based interior designer, frequently uses Mizzle as a main color for kitchen cabinets, contrasting it with Down Pipe for kitchen islands. Mizzle, a soft gray-green reminiscent of a misty drizzle, pairs well with Down Pipe, a deep blue with gray undertones, creating a complex and rich effect. These 'in-between' colors function almost as neutrals, making them versatile enough to integrate with various other colors and patterns and ensuring they remain timeless. 'Elephant's Breath' is another standout, particularly for its deep and rich pigments, according to Kristen Fiore of Kristen Elizabeth Design. Along with 'Dove Tale' and 'Worsted,' these gentle neutrals are recommended for cabinets as an alternative to solid black, bringing depth without overwhelming the space. Lighter gray tones from this collection are also suggested for trim and baseboard moldings. Lucy Currell of Studio Iro favors 'Oval Room Blue,' a perfectly balanced dark blue, which she used to color-drench an entryway in an old pub. This approach, covering walls, woodwork, and ceiling in the same shade, created a profoundly relaxing ambiance in the large space, demonstrating the color's depth and tone. For those seeking something a bit more unique, Nicola Sanders of Studio Sanders recommends 'Potted Shrimp,' a gentle blush pink from Farrow & Ball's archive collection. She describes it as an excellent pink that avoids being too fresh or cloying, with a subtle yellow undertone that imparts a warm, glowing quality. This versatile shade has been used for front doors and effectively in color-drenched sitting rooms. Finally, 'Skimming Stone' and 'Cornforth White' offer versatile neutral options. Melissa Read of Studio Burntwood highlights Skimming Stone as an extremely versatile and conservative choice, valued for its warm undertones without being yellow, making it an ideal calming backdrop that can be enhanced with accent colors. Rina Patel of Vastu Interior Design suggests Cornforth White as a subtle gray alternative to stark whites or creams, especially for clients transitioning from cooler gray trends who wish to introduce warmer tones. It works well to make other colors stand out in a scheme, much like pebbles on a beach. The article concludes by emphasizing that in addition to color, paint finish is crucial, with Farrow & Ball offering options from Dead Flat matte to Full Gloss, and Eggshell for a mid-sheen look. #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #FarrowAndBall #HomeDecor #ColorSchemes #NeutralColors #BluePaint #PinkPaint #GrayPaint

Nostalgiacore is an emerging interior design trend centered on incorporating vintage decor, retro patterns, and motifs from the past to create a warm, personal, and layered home environment. This trend provides a sense of familiarity and comfort, serving as a counterpoint to the rapid pace and technology-driven nature of modern life. It encourages individuals to relive simpler times and childhood memories through their home aesthetics. According to Danielle Taylor, interior designer and founder of Cosu Studio, nostalgiacore involves integrating elements such as heirloom furniture, vintage textiles, and timeworn finishes to evoke a sense of comfort and history within a living space. The increasing momentum of this trend is attributed to a societal desire for grounded living and an escape from daily stresses, reflecting a return to simpler eras. Anita Lo, owner of Clara's Box, highlights that popular culture, including reboots of classic media, frequently draws inspiration from past decades, contributing to this trend's appeal. Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages, notes that personal memories from the 1980s, characterized by kitsch patterns and bold florals, have fueled a collective desire for coziness and individuality in home decor. To embrace the nostalgiacore aesthetic, one effective method is to select retro-inspired patterns and earthy color palettes to form a foundational design. Jamie suggests using floral patterns, Victorian-inspired Toile de Jouy, and aged color schemes, emphasizing the appeal of vibrant, blousy blooms paired with velvet cushions. The addition of statement fringed lamps can illuminate darker areas and enhance the character of a room. Sourcing vintage furniture and decor is another key aspect of the trend. Anita recommends supporting small businesses by purchasing secondhand items like posters and antique chairs. Alternatively, individuals can explore their own homes or those of family members for meaningful items that evoke nostalgic feelings. The trend advocates for embracing the natural imperfections of vintage pieces to achieve a lived-in, cozy atmosphere. Once vintage items are acquired, integrating them with contemporary pieces creates a sense of a home curated over time. Danielle suggests layering various textures, such as linen, wool, and aged solid wood, to add depth to the decor. Incorporating meaningful objects like black and white photographs, old books, or artwork with historical significance further personalizes the space. Lena Gierasinska, head of product and displays at Barker and Stonehouse, highlights the utility of open shelving for showcasing collections of vintage crockery, books, or ceramics, which can infuse personality into a room. Hanging decorative plates on walls is also noted as a way to reference past decorating styles. The overarching goal of nostalgiacore is to create a home that feels rich with personal memories and fosters a comforting sense of nostalgia, irrespective of how recently these memories began to form. #Nostalgiacore #InteriorDesign #VintageDecor #RetroPatterns #HomeComfort #DesignTrends #PersonalizedHome #HeirloomFurniture #CozyInteriors

Farrow & Ball paints are widely recognized for their rich pigments and flattering shades, making them a continuous favorite among interior designers and homeowners. The brand offers a diverse palette, ranging from relaxed and earthy neutrals that serve as timeless backdrops to moody blues and greens, all designed to create warm and welcoming spaces. Joa Studholme, Farrow & Ball Color Curator, emphasizes that the primary goal of using color is to foster environments where individuals feel proud and comfortable in their homes. The article highlights ten of Farrow & Ball's most popular paint colors, offering inspiration for elevating home interiors in 2024 with sophisticated and versatile shades. Each color, whether subtle or bold, aims to feel deeply livable, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. The selection includes 'Setting Plaster,' a dusty, earthy pink inspired by freshly plastered walls, which has become a best-seller and a new neutral alternative to grays. Charlotte Cosby, Creative Director at Farrow & Ball, notes its understated beauty in creating a soft, dreamy environment, especially when applied across ceilings and woodwork. 'Ammonite,' named after Dorset coast fossils, stands as Farrow & Ball's most popular neutral. It possesses a subtle gray tone, adaptable to any room orientation, and offers a calming feel. Joa Studholme suggests pairing it with brighter whites like All White for a noticeable contrast and recommends Farrow & Ball’s ‘white and light tones’ primer for optimal results. 'Railings,' a softer alternative to black with blue undertones, is ideal for creating dramatic and enveloping spaces, particularly in studies and dining rooms. Joa explains its versatility for both walls and woodwork, even suggesting it for front doors. 'Down Pipe,' a dark lead gray with blue undertones, enhances complexity and is often used for accent walls or intimate sitting rooms, offering an industrial yet soft feel. It pairs well with white woodwork for striking contrast. 'Sulking Room Pink,' a muted rose with warm tones, draws inspiration from the French word ‘bouder’ (to sulk) and boudoir shades. Joa describes it as an incredibly soft and easy-to-use color, perfect for furniture and walls in contemporary homes when paired with complementary darker tones or 'Great White.' 'Hague Blue,' a strong blue with green undertones, is derived from Dutch woodwork and is suited for north or east-facing rooms due to its warmth. Joa advises using it with the same color on woodwork and a dark neutral like 'Shaded White' on the ceiling for sophistication. 'Strong White,' a cool white with light gray undertones, adds a contemporary touch to homes. Joa highlights its popularity in kitchens for a fresh look and its ability to create an illusion of space, especially in rooms with small windows. 'Green Smoke,' a smoky green with blue pigment, is a muted shade referencing late 19th-century interiors. Charlotte notes its inviting depth, particularly under candlelight and in exterior spaces, and its ability to create a serene atmosphere. 'Elephant's Breath,' a warm-toned gray with a hint of magenta, is a beloved shade for decorating with gray. Charlotte describes its uplifting warmth, which can appear lilac in west-facing spaces, and its versatility when paired with sophisticated shades like 'Sulking Room Pink' or 'London Clay,' or with 'Strong White' for a softer neutrality. Lastly, 'Stiffkey Blue,' an inky blue named after a Norfolk beach, offers a dramatic yet optimistic feel, appearing bluer in well-lit spaces and more indigo in darker rooms. Joa notes its uncomplicated and upbeat feel compared to other strong blues. Farrow & Ball attributes its popularity to high levels of pigment, rich resin binders, and quality ingredients, which provide a unique depth of color and long-lasting finish. Charlotte Cosby emphasizes the meticulous testing of their paints to ensure extraordinary color and durability, offering a thoughtfully curated palette for various interior and exterior applications, suitable for both modern and traditional styles. #FarrowAndBall #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorTrends #NeutralColors #BoldColors #DesignInspiration #HomeImprovement

The design industry widely recognizes the crucial role of lighting in shaping a room's ambiance. Beyond merely switching to warm white bulbs or incorporating table lamps, social media's home DIY enthusiasts are now embracing adhesive sconces as a popular solution to enhance their living spaces. This trend is akin to peel-and-stick wallpaper, utilizing an adhesive backing to attach battery-operated light fixtures to walls, providing a beautiful glow without the need for hardwiring. DIY designer Galey Alix highlights the user-friendliness of adhesive sconces, noting that they are easy to install and reposition without fear of making a permanent mistake. This makes them particularly appealing for renters seeking to personalize their temporary homes, a convenience that gained traction during the shelter-in-place orders in 2020. The ability to add lighting without complex electrical work or permits offered a practical and immediate solution for home improvement during that period. Alexandra Gater, a design blogger and member of House Beautiful's 2024 Creator Class, emphasizes how adhesive lighting contributes to a warm and cozy atmosphere in any room, whether rented or owned. She frequently integrates these fixtures into her makeovers, particularly as bedside wall lamps in compact spaces where traditional table lamps would occupy valuable surface area. The installation process for adhesive lights is remarkably simple, accessible to DIYers of all skill levels. The market offers a wide array of adhesive lighting solutions suitable for various areas within the home. Gater recommends brands like Poplight, which feature Bluetooth connectivity and app control, while Alix suggests smaller peel-and-stick circle lights for discreet placement under kitchen cabinets with an overhang. Beyond their ease of installation and versatility, adhesive sconces are also highly affordable, with many options available for under $50. Significant advancements in adhesive lighting technology have ensured that quality is not compromised despite the lower price point. Alix confirms the improved durability and longevity of these products, noting that their adhesive properties and battery life have significantly improved. She acknowledges, however, that applying adhesive lights to older paint, wallpaper, or drywall may potentially cause some damage upon removal. Despite this minor consideration, adhesive lights remain an accessible, cost-effective, and illuminating solution for enhancing home decor. #AdhesiveSconces #HomeLighting #DIYHomeDecor #RentalFriendly #InteriorDesignTrends #LightingSolutions #BudgetDecor #HomeImprovement #SmartHomeLighting

Pattern in interior design, far from being merely decorative, introduces depth and narrative to a room, creating a sense of magic and transporting the mind to different worlds. While the skill of combining patterns is considerable, the initial step for any pattern-related decision is to be captivated by a specific design. Emma J Shipley's Mythica collection, a collaboration with Clarke & Clarke, exemplifies this with its range of wallpapers and fabrics inspired by wildlife, mythology, and fantastical elements. Launched on February 4, this collection features jungle dreamscapes and sea forests, reminiscent of Jules Verne, often incorporating mythic creatures. Shipley, a British artist with Irish heritage, describes her creative process as beginning with a story. She seeks inspiration in nature, sketching and photographing, and immersing herself in fantasy literature before integrating these elements into her designs. This involves identifying key motifs or 'icons' and meticulously arranging them within the pattern, adding detail iteratively. An example from her collection is the Quetzal wallpaper, which prominently features the resplendent quetzal bird, observed by Shipley in Costa Rica. These birds, with their iridescent blue-green plumage and vivid red breasts and long, ribbon-like tails, appear almost mythological. The design combines quetzal birds with hummingbirds, bats, lizards, and a tiger heron, creating a cohesive narrative rather than a naturalistic depiction. Another wallpaper, Odyssey Mythos, draws inspiration from Greek ancient sites, museums, and the film "Jason and the Argonauts." Its central motifs are horses, traditionally associated with Poseidon, reimagined with Pegasus wings, fish tails, and cheetah spots, showcasing Shipley's signature use of animal patterns in unexpected contexts. Shipley's patterns are available in various colorways, from vibrant multi-colored options to subtle monochromes. She emphasizes that while she designs in black and white, the addition of color profoundly alters the mood and feel of the design. The Mythica collection also includes jacquard weaves, where the pattern is woven into the fabric, and embroidered patterns, such as the 'Owl of Athena,' which repeats a small golden owl motif on a linen base. This variety allows for layering patterns to create a diverse scheme, which can range from maximalist to subtly enhancing a pared-back, neutral space with personality. Combining patterns can be challenging, often leading homeowners to opt for plain interiors. Interior designer Maggie Brady of Pearl Redesigns highlights that a pattern-less home can appear flat. She notes that the fear of overwhelming color is a common stumbling block, suggesting that incorporating neutrals makes pattern mixing more manageable. Brady's primary advice is to maintain simple and consistent color combinations to ensure visual harmony. The process typically begins with a 'hero piece' that establishes the room's underlying color palette. For instance, in a country bedroom design, an antique Aubusson rug with a peachy-pink, green, pale blue, and olive palette dictated the room's color scheme. Subsequent patterns, such as a bold floral bedspread and a blossom print wallpaper, were chosen to align with these established tones and often shared a similar scale, making them easier to integrate. Even with multiple patterns, the room maintains a restful atmosphere due to the consistency of tones. Brady also advises consistency in style when mixing patterns, recommending adherence to a specific period, such as mid-century, to create a sense of established charm. She encourages experimentation, suggesting that if a pattern doesn't work in one spot, it can likely find a home elsewhere in the house. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #PatternMixing #WallpaperTrends #EmmaJShipley #MythicaCollection #TextileDesign #ColorPalette #DesignInspiration

In a world saturated with fleeting color trends, discerning homeowners and interior designers often seek enduring palettes that transcend seasonal fads. This article delves into five classic colors that consistently find favor among design professionals when navigating the pressures of ever-changing trends. The overarching philosophy behind these choices is to create spaces that feel timeless, balanced, and deeply connected to their environment and inhabitants. The discussion begins by emphasizing the importance of focusing on the desired 'feel' of a space rather than merely its 'look.' Andrew Griffiths of A New Day Design highlights how a home's context and its residents' personalities should guide color selection, drawing inspiration from natural surroundings. This approach ensures that chosen colors contribute to a cohesive and emotionally resonant interior, regardless of current trends. Sage green emerges as a top contender, revered for its sophisticated yet earthy qualities. Its strong connection to the natural world makes it a perennially popular choice for creating serene and inviting atmospheres. Interior designer Kathy Kuo praises sage green's versatility, noting its suitability across diverse design styles from French country to modern farmhouse. Benjamin Moore's October Mist is specifically mentioned by Sara Malek Barney of BANDD/DESIGN as a go-to sage green that seamlessly integrates into various aesthetics, consistently delivering a polished look. Off-whites, particularly those with warm undertones, are presented as another enduring classic. While neutrals might seem an obvious choice, their effectiveness in creating light, airy, and subtly cozy schemes is often underestimated. Jessica Dorling of Dorling Design Studio champions Sherwin-Williams' Greek Villa for its balanced warmth, providing a timeless and versatile foundation that offers a sense of calm and stability. Alexis Warren similarly advocates for Benjamin Moore's White Dove, a warm cream paint that acts as an ideal backdrop for fabrics while brightening a space. David Ries of Ries Hayes suggests Benjamin Moore's Fog Mist, describing it as a 'Goldilocks' color that is exceptionally versatile and well-suited for situations where trend fatigue is prevalent due to its warm, cool, luminous, and neutral qualities. Earthy tones, encompassing blue-grays, greige, and taupe, are also highlighted for their lasting appeal. Jaclyn Isaac of Doni Douglas Design argues for treating blues as neutrals, drawing parallels to natural elements like Carrara marble, the ocean, and the sky. She specifically points to Benjamin Moore's Cobblestone Path as a grounded and livable blue-gray. For warmer earthy tones, Vyanca Soto of Market Studio Interiors favors Portola Paints' Piano Room, a rich and deep hue that brings timeless elegance, warmth, and sophistication. Navy blue offers a classic dark alternative to plain neutrals, providing a rich and sophisticated ambiance. Nadia Watts frequently returns to Benjamin Moore's Hale Navy, noting its bold, classic, and timeless nature. She considers it a versatile neutral that pairs well with almost anything, creating a refined look without being overtly trendy. This deep blue hue is especially effective in creating cozy and sophisticated spaces. Finally, charcoal, particularly in almost-black shades, is presented as another classic dark paint color. Cheryl Clendenon of In Detail Interiors pairs an almost-black charcoal with white for a crisp, timeless, and moody allure, recommending Benjamin Moore's Jet Black. Hannah Goldberg of Hannah Charlotte Interiors similarly utilizes Portola Paints' Lone Cypress, an incredibly dark blue-green that functions as an off-black in certain lighting, enveloping rooms with richness and depth, suitable for walls, ceilings, and millwork. These timeless colors, often drawing inspiration from the natural world, provide a solid foundation for home design that transcends ephemeral trends, offering lasting beauty and comfort. Each color choice contributes to a sense of stability and enduring style, allowing designers and homeowners to create spaces that feel both current and classic. The consistent preference for these hues underscores their inherent ability to foster harmonious and inviting interiors that resist obsolescence in the face of changing design currents. #InteriorDesign #ColorTrends #TimelessColors #HomeDecor #PaintColors #SageGreen #OffWhites #NavyBlue #Charcoal #EarthyTones

This article explores interior design "microtrends" that design experts predict will have lasting appeal beyond their initial surge in popularity. It addresses the common concern of investing in fleeting fads and aims to guide homeowners in making timeless decor choices. The piece highlights ten specific trends that designers believe will endure through 2025 and beyond, moving from temporary phenomena to established design principles. First on the list is curved sofas. While a revival of a 70s classic, these sculptural and convex furniture pieces are praised for softening spaces and fostering a more convivial atmosphere. Designers emphasize their versatility as floating statement pieces rather than being confined to walls, suggesting an enduring shift in spatial arrangement. Monochrome color palettes are also presented as a timeless approach, offering visual strength and emphasizing depth. This trend, often paired with color drenching, encourages a cohesive and harmonious aesthetic where every color decision is intentional. Skirted furniture, another microtrend, is re-emerging with a contemporary twist. Designers appreciate the beautifully patterned pleats on ottomans, chairs, and sofas for creating a homey, cottage-core feel without the "frumpy" connotation of past styles. The modern pleated skirts are seen as a refined nod to traditional aesthetics that will continue to gain traction. Color drenching, the technique of saturating an entire room in a single hue, including ceilings and woodwork, is identified as a trend driven by a desire for increased character and personality in homes. Designers believe this immersive approach to color unequivocally sparks joy and will remain popular. Raw, unfinished textures, such as lime plaster and microcement, are anticipated to rise in popularity. These materials contribute to an organic, artisanal look, building on previous trends like raked plaster and stucco. Their sustainability and eco-friendliness, combined with their unique patinas and textures, make them appealing for various surfaces, from walls and fireplaces to ceilings and even tile floors. Mural wall coverings, moving beyond simple accent walls, create immersive scenes with statement motifs, particularly verdant themes with lush greenery and floral patterns. This trend is favored in communal spaces like dining rooms, providing engaging focal points that celebrate nature's calming influence. Raw wood kitchen cabinetry signals a move away from sterile, white kitchens towards warmer, more inviting spaces. The inherent timelessness of organic materials like wood, especially in kitchen islands, offers a perfect balance of tradition and modernity, complementing various materials such as marble and metallic hardware. Standout ceilings, once neglected, are now becoming a fifth wall for decorative expression. Designers report increased use of paint, wallpaper, high gloss finishes, and even exposed wood on ceilings, transforming them into focal points that create enveloped and cozy spaces. Red decor, initially popularized by the "unexpected red" trend in 2024, is evolving towards deeper, darker hues like maroon. This adaptation is seen as a more timeless approach, suitable for creating relaxing and safe ambiances, especially in smaller rooms. The article predicts a continuation of color-drenching with these rich tones. Finally, the microtrend of "lived-in" interiors emphasizes uniqueness and storytelling within a home. This trend values personalized decor and accessories that subtly and overtly reflect the inhabitants, moving away from generic, "cookie-cutter" spaces. It encourages homeowners to curate spaces that visually map their experiences and preferences. In essence, the article argues that these seemingly small trends are not fleeting fads but rather design elements with inherent longevity, capable of becoming staples in interior design for years to come. By adopting these lasting microtrends, homeowners can create chic and enduring spaces. #InteriorDesign #DecorTrends #TimelessDesign #HomeDecor #CurvedSofas #MonochromePalettes #SkirtedFurniture #ColorDrenching #RawMaterials #MuralWallcoverings #WoodenCabinetry #StatementCeilings #RedDecor #LivedInInteriors

This article explores three of Farrow & Ball's most beloved paint colors: French Gray, Hague Blue, and Setting Plaster, offering expert advice from Farrow & Ball's color specialist, Patrick O'Donnell, on how to best incorporate them into home interiors. These paints are consistently popular among interior designers and homeowners, known for their versatility and ability to create specific moods and aesthetics. French Gray, despite its name, leans more towards green and is recommended for creating a calming living room scheme. O'Donnell suggests pairing it simply with Slipper Satin for trim and ceiling, a warm white paint that offers a softer alternative to stark whites. To introduce an accent, he recommends incorporating a splash of Preference Red, either through fabric references or painted furniture, noting that these 'plummy reds' complement the green tones effectively. Hague Blue is a widely recognized and popular moody blue shade. O'Donnell advises using this bold color for kitchen cabinets to achieve a classic look. To uplift this deep hue, he suggests incorporating Bancha, a mid-century-inspired olive green, in smaller doses. For overall lightness and relief, painting all walls and ceilings in Shaded White is recommended, creating a balanced and harmonious environment. Setting Plaster is described as 'the most flattering of earth pinks.' This soft hue is particularly suited for bedrooms, where it can contribute to a serene atmosphere. For an accent color, O'Donnell suggests teaming Setting Plaster with Mouse's Back, highlighting the beautiful combination of pink and brown. To complete a relaxing bedroom scheme, School House White is recommended for trim and ceiling. The article emphasizes that these expert-suggested color schemes provide an excellent starting point for those looking to create a calming bedroom, an on-trend kitchen, or to add more color to their home. It highlights the enduring appeal and versatility of Farrow & Ball's paint collection, guiding readers on how to leverage these popular shades to transform their living spaces. #FarrowAndBall #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorSchemes #FrenchGray #HagueBlue #SettingPlaster

Fluting, an ancient architectural technique characterized by shallow grooves across a surface, is experiencing a significant resurgence in interior design. This trend is valued for its ability to add texture, character, and a touch of Art Deco glamour to modern homes, moving beyond its traditional use in columns to become a key feature in various interior applications. The article highlights nine ways interior designers are incorporating fluting into their projects, emphasizing its versatility and aesthetic appeal. One prominent application of fluting is in kitchen islands, transforming them into chic focal points. Design experts like Laura Butler-Madden favor fluting for its textural quality, often using it in gloss finishes to create a contrast with matte cabinetry and allow other design elements, such as wooden flooring, to stand out. Australian Maek Residences demonstrate how fluted kitchen islands can beautifully juxtapose with darker elements and serve as a backdrop for smooth, pale wood furniture. Fluted wall dividers and glass paneling offer an effective solution for maintaining light while ensuring privacy. Interior design studio Day True utilizes fluted glass in cabinet doors and bespoke feature elements like room dividers and shower screens. This application adds texture and a play of light, drawing inspiration from classical architecture to create dramatic backdrops or conceal joins and doors. Kitchen cabinetry also benefits from fluting, allowing for bold and serene statements. Victoria Spencer-Eves of VEVES interior design emphasizes fluting as a way to add texture and depth without relying on obvious patterns that might quickly date a design. She notes the tactile nature of fluting, which invites interaction and appeals to human senses, aligning with a minimalist yet architectural design approach. Bathrooms incorporate fluting in vanity units, adding elegance and texture. Ham Interiors showcases blush pink fluted vanity units, highlighting how fluted pieces can integrate into both contemporary and traditional schemes. Michelle Gerson Interiors further demonstrates fluting’s potential in bathroom design with wide vanity units featuring integrated drawers and cabinetry. Beyond large surfaces, fluting is used as a subtle detail in furnishings, such as banquette seating in dining areas. California-based Dart Studio illustrates how fluted seating can create an inviting and sophisticated atmosphere, reminiscent of smart restaurant interiors. Fluting is also making its way into bedrooms through hotel-style headboards. Russian interior design agency Quadro Room uses fluting both vertically for grandeur and horizontally for a luxurious feel, often as a fixed installation behind the bed. Art Deco-inspired fluted lighting fixtures are currently popular. Emily Bizley of Studio Bizley notes that this trend, while nodding to 1930s elegance, is made more accessible by modern manufacturing techniques like CNC cutting. Fluted lighting, along with reeded glass in cabinets, adds fine lines and texture, creating balance and harmony, especially when paired with monolithic elements like ceramic baths or swirly marble surfaces. Finally, fluting serves as a wall material, offering intriguing design possibilities. Day True's dining room design uses fluted walls to define open-plan spaces, providing an architectural counterpoint to large windows and potentially offering acoustic insulation. London-based Studio Clement demonstrates open fluting for dividing galleried open-plan areas, allowing light to filter through and adding architectural interest, warmth, and texture to hallways. #FlutingTrend #InteriorDesign #TextureInDesign #ArtDecoGlamour #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #ArchitecturalDetails #HomeDecor #DesignVersatility