How to Score Secret Deals on Floor Samples, According to Design Insiders

This article offers comprehensive guidance on selecting the perfect carpet or rug for a home, drawing insights from three design experts: Daniel Prendergast, Director at The Rugseller; Kirsty Barton, Brand Storytelling Manager at Alternative Flooring; and Rupert Anton, Spokesperson for The Carpet Foundation. The piece highlights that while both carpets and rugs offer significant comfort and aesthetic benefits, the decision-making process involves numerous considerations, including color, texture, material, and overall design, irrespective of budget. Rupert Anton notes a recent decline in carpet sales following a boom during the Covid years, attributed to the sustained popularity of LVT and wood flooring for their practicality and ease of maintenance. However, he emphasizes that carpet remains a favored choice for specific areas such as stairs, landings, bedrooms, and some living rooms. Kirsty Barton elaborates on the functional differences, suggesting high-pile carpets for luxurious softness in bedrooms and tightly woven, hardwearing options for high-traffic areas like hallways and stairs, which also offer soundproofing benefits. Anton adds that the increasing consumer desire for calm, nurturing interiors has contributed to a carpet comeback, aligning with the material's soft, warm, and textural qualities, a sentiment echoed by Barton. The article delves into current trends, observing that while neutrals maintain their timeless appeal as best-sellers, there is a growing demand for patterned flooring that injects personality into spaces. Kirsty Barton mentions stripes, florals, and a variety of vibrant colorways, from soft pastels to rich greens and deep tones, as a means to make the floor a central design element. Rupert Anton corroborates this shift, noting a move away from grey tones towards warm earthy colors like ochres, soft golds, earthy greens, sage greens, and blush pink. He also points out a rise in patterned carpets for stairs and landings, with herringbone and geometrics gaining traction over traditional stripes, alongside natural textures such as loop piles. For rugs, Daniel Prendergast observes that neutrals are still popular for their versatility. However, he highlights a growing trend for homeowners and designers to incorporate more patterns to personalize their interiors, often by layering patterned rugs over neutral bases to enhance visual impact. Custom-made rugs, geometrics, Scandi-inspired designs, vintage looks, and nature-influenced motifs are also gaining popularity. Material matters are also addressed, with Rupert Anton noting a trend towards eco-friendly and bio-based materials. This includes 100% undyed British wool carpets with natural backings like cotton, jute, and natural rubber latex, as well as synthetic and cellulosic fibers that are fully biodegradable. Daniel Prendergast supports this, mentioning the increasing popularity of recycled PET rugs made from plastic bottles, which are durable, stain-resistant, and soft. Natural materials like jute, sisal, and seagrass, along with washable rugs, are also seeing increased demand. Practical advice for decision-making includes considering the room's suitability and expected wear, especially in high-traffic areas, and assessing family circumstances (e.g., presence of children) to determine durability requirements. Experts advise investing in the best quality carpet affordable due to daily use and selecting a design that will be loved for years. For rugs, Daniel Prendergast suggests starting with a rug to define the room's aesthetic, considering room dimensions, existing furniture, and budget. He also introduces the "18-inch rule" for rug placement to ensure balance, recommending that rugs extend adequately under dining tables to accommodate pulled-out chairs and under beds to appear on both sides. The article concludes with specific tips for choosing carpets and rugs, emphasizing suitability, decorating plans, longevity, and proper sizing to create an illusion of space. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #Flooring #Carpets #Rugs #DesignTrends #MaterialMatters #HomeImprovement

Estate sales are valuable resources for interior designers seeking to integrate unique, vintage, and high-quality pieces into contemporary schemes, thereby enhancing the character and distinctiveness of a home. Such sales provide an opportunity to acquire items with a rich history and patina, which can introduce warmth and contrast to new constructions, creating a lived-in and inviting atmosphere. The emphasis is on finding objects that are no longer in production, possess unique craftsmanship, or feature decorative finishes. High-quality wooden furniture, including tables, chairs, closets, and bed frames, crafted from solid woods such as walnut or mahogany, are frequently sought after. These items, often available at a fraction of the cost of new furniture, retain lasting value and can be restored or repurposed to suit modern aesthetics. Designers advise looking for pieces with strong foundational structures and interesting silhouettes, as these can be updated with decorative finishes like paint or glazes. Examples include dining tables, chairs, sideboards, and even chandeliers that, with minor attention, can be given new life. Beyond furniture, estate sales are excellent for discovering unusual tables and chairs that can be reimagined through reupholstering, refinishing, or restoration. This approach allows designers to create personalized and curated spaces by integrating hidden gems with potential for transformation. Shoppers are encouraged to carry a tape measure and a list of specific dimensions to ensure items fit their intended spaces. Ceramics and tableware, such as fine china, silverware, and glassware, are also prominent finds. These items, often in excellent condition, can be acquired at competitive prices and are perfect for decorative displays or full dinner services, adding elegance to any setting. Vintage books, ranging from leather-bound volumes to those with interesting botanical or architectural illustrations, are ideal for styling shelves and creating unique decorative accents. Smaller furniture items like side tables, stools, and petite chairs are considered safer investments due to ease of transport and their ability to add charm and functionality without significant commitment. Bamboo furniture and accessories, known for their lightweight nature and discreet open frames, are also highly desirable for their ability to introduce a vintage feel without appearing stuffy. Decorative items and vases are essential for styling shelves, sideboards, and coffee tables, with designers often grouping them in odd numbers or large collections for maximum impact. Silver-plated pieces, original artwork, and unique accents are valued for their ability to add a collected and layered feel to a home. Finally, antique and vintage mirrors, particularly those with decorative frames, are frequently purchased to enhance light, space, and visual interest in any room. These less divisive pieces offer a timeless appeal and are a practical choice for wall decor. #EstateSales #InteriorDesign #VintageFurniture #HomeDecor #AntiqueFinds #DecoratingTips #Thrifting #UniquePieces #SecondHandItems

Italian finishing brand Ideal Work has unveiled five new collections on Dezeen Showroom, featuring highly customizable finishes, wall coatings, and flooring options. These products are engineered to emulate the appearance of concrete and metal, offering a versatile solution for transforming spaces without requiring extensive and disruptive renovations. All materials are hand-finished and designed to be between two and three millimeters thick, ensuring a continuous surface with no visible joins and no alteration to the original slab level. One of the featured products, Microtopping, is a micro-cement finish designed for renewing existing surfaces. It allows for a range of colors and intensities and can be hand-finished to achieve polished, silky, clouded, or acid-stained effects. This finish is suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications, including walls, stairs, and bathrooms, and can adhere to various materials such such as concrete, ceramic, and wood, offering a flexible design solution. Purometallo is another innovative offering, a metal powder-based coating that replicates the look of real metal. It is available in six distinct color options, including gold, bronze, copper, pewter, iron, and Corten steel. Different application techniques can create diverse textures, from a shiny foil appearance to an iron-oxide effect. This coating's adaptability makes it ideal for a wide array of surfaces, including walls and furniture, providing a refined metallic aesthetic. Ideal Work has also introduced Lixio Plus, an enhanced version of its Lixio flooring system. This update allows for the use of larger marble aggregates, ranging from five to 12 millimeters, promoting more sustainable material sourcing by enabling designers to select locally acquired marble. Lixio Plus offers customization in terms of marble aggregate size and color and comes in three finishes: glossy, slip-resistant satin, or hammered. Its UV resistance and ability to withstand adverse weather conditions make it suitable for both interior and exterior use. Nuvolato Architop is a three-millimeter-thick finish that mimics the appearance of concrete. Composed of a blend of cement and other ingredients, it can be applied over existing surfaces such as concrete, ceramic, marble, or sand-cement screeds. This finish provides an efficient way to refresh interiors or restore floors, bypassing the need for demolition or extensive remodeling. Nuvolato Architop is particularly recommended for high-traffic public areas, commercial spaces, exhibitions, and industrial-style lofts. Complementing Nuvolato Architop, Concrete Optik is a thin cement polymer wall coating designed to replicate the aesthetic of fair-faced concrete. It is suitable for both interior and exterior walls, and can also be applied to furniture or curved surfaces. Available in a diverse palette of colors and finishes, Concrete Optik allows for significant customization through Ideal Work's proprietary applicators, enabling designers to tailor the coating to specific design preferences. Ideal Work, established in 1997 in Vallà, Italy, specializes in developing and producing a wide range of surfaces, flooring systems, wall coatings, hard landscaping finishes, and decorative cement-based plastering. Their product lines cater to both indoor and outdoor applications, offering styles that span industrial, classic contemporary, minimal, and brutalist aesthetics, highlighting the brand's commitment to versatility and design innovation. #IdealWork #FinishingMaterials #WallCoatings #FlooringSolutions #Microcement #MetalFinishes #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalSurfaces

The thrill of discovering unique furnishings and the regret of missing out on a coveted piece are common experiences for interior designers, as recounted by nine professionals in the field. These designers share their personal anecdotes of both significant acquisitions and elusive 'holy grail' items, offering insight into the passion and pursuit involved in curating exceptional interiors. Will Meyer, a devotee of Danish design, recently acquired a Hans Wegner daybed but continues his quest for the perfect Papa Bear chair, an iconic piece he believes will eternally remain stylish. Amy Lau's 'big find' was a set of sculptural Dommus chairs by Joseph Walsh, which she commissioned for her New York apartment after a studio visit in Ireland, impressed by their handcrafted and expressive design. Pierre Yovanovitch expresses a long-standing desire for a rare and expensive Uno Ahren masterpiece, specifically his 1927 inlaid Mahogany Secretaire, admired for its flawless execution and unique Garden of Eden imagery. Nate Berkus laments multiple missed opportunities to purchase a Picasso ceramic owl. He first encountered one while working at an auction house in Chicago, unable to afford it then, and later saw others in Paris and on 1stdibs, observing its increasing value with each sighting. Miles Redd's most significant discovery is a mirrored bathroom by David Adler, found in a Chicago salvage warehouse. This unique piece, which he uses as both a bathroom and a dining room, holds special value due to its singular nature and the emotional connection it provides, making him feel as though he is 'inside of a diamond' every morning. Alexandra Champalimaud recalls admiring the Mattia Bonetti Rock dining table at a design fair, describing it as extraordinary and full of personality, but ultimately passed on it due to not having a suitable space. Martyn Lawrence Bullard shares an auction disappointment involving a Jacques Adnet Hermès Saddle leather daybed. Despite thorough research and a set budget, he missed the piece by two bids, regretting his hesitation and emphasizing the importance of passionate pursuit in auctions, as he has been unable to find a similar item since. Robert Couturier maintains a detached perspective on objects, viewing himself as a temporary owner and valuing history over intrinsic monetary worth. However, he holds a particular affection for a painting by Jean Baptiste Greuze depicting an angel. This piece, inherited from his great-grandfather and a constant presence in his grandmother's home, evokes profound memories of his upbringing and the love of his grandmother, offering a sense of 'bonheur' and timelessness. Michael Smith expresses his admiration for the Lovö chair, designed by Axel Einar Hjorth in 1932. He had bid on this dynamic and remarkably modern piece at auction but was unsuccessful, wishing he could have incorporated it into one of his classic yet modern projects. #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #HomeDecor #Designers #LuxuryInteriors #ArtAndCollectibles #DesignStories #Acquisitions #LostOpportunities

When purchasing a condominium, various factors typically influence buyers' decisions, including location, proximity to public transport, access to reputable schools, and land tenure. However, one crucial element often underestimated or overlooked is the floor plan, which can significantly impact the living experience and the property's potential resale value. Many first-time condo owners only recognize the profound effect of a poorly designed layout after they have moved in. A 1,200-square-foot unit, for instance, might appear spacious on paper but can feel unexpectedly cramped or present challenges in furniture arrangement due to inefficient design choices such as awkwardly placed walls or excessive corridors. The article emphasizes that understanding a floor plan, even in its basic 2D representation, is vital before committing to a purchase. It illustrates this point by examining three specific condominium developments in Singapore: The Line @ Tanjong Rhu, Montebleu, and Atrium Residences. Each example highlights how particular layout decisions can detract from the overall liveability and practicality of a unit, irrespective of desirable external attributes like freehold status or extensive facilities. For The Line @ Tanjong Rhu, a freehold condo with 130 units in District 15, the three-bedroom layout is noted for its interior challenges. A prominent issue is a long corridor leading to the balcony directly from the main entrance. While visually striking, this design sacrifices usable space and presents an unconventional entry sequence, as guests must navigate past two bedrooms and the kitchen before reaching the living area. This layout is particularly inconvenient for families with young children, as returning home late might disturb sleeping occupants. The kitchen is also small and lacks a dedicated yard, integrating the washer/dryer within the kitchen space, which is impractical for a three-bedroom unit exceeding 1,000 square feet. Additionally, the master bedroom's proximity to the living area raises privacy concerns, although the balcony's placement at the corridor's end does facilitate ventilation. Montebleu, another freehold condo near Balestier Road with 151 units, demonstrates how inefficient space allocation can disappoint buyers. A 1,141-square-foot three-bedroom unit features an excessively large air-conditioner ledge, a design inefficiency that GFA (Gross Floor Area) harmonisation rules now address. The unit includes two small common bedrooms, which may not meet expectations for its size. The absence of a yard, common in older condos of similar dimensions, is also a drawback. Despite these issues, the unit offers a 'dumbbell' layout, providing more privacy for the master bedroom and minimizing wasted space from long hallways. However, the bathroom's location near the dining area is a potential privacy concern, making its use conspicuous if a dining table is present. On the positive side, it features a fully enclosed wet kitchen, a rarity in many contemporary condos. The presence of bay windows in all bedrooms is cited as another inefficiency. Finally, Atrium Residences, a freehold project completed in 2008 near Aljunied MRT station, illustrates the impact of bay windows on perceived space. While benefiting from its location near the developed Paya Lebar Quarter, the condo's 142 units are in a dense urban setting. The three-bedroom units, at 1,227 square feet, appear spacious in terms of area. However, a significant portion of this space is occupied by numerous bay windows, found in the living room and all three bedrooms. This design choice, prevalent in early 2000s condos to inflate square footage for developers, leads to considerable inefficiencies. The master bedroom even includes an additional bay window on the balcony, further reducing functional space. These examples collectively highlight that the true utility and comfort of a condo unit often depend more on its internal layout than on its advertised square footage or external amenities. Effective floor plan analysis can help identify problematic areas such as unproductive nooks, corridors with limited utility, or layouts that require extensive renovation. These details are often obscured in marketing materials and can be challenging to visualize in new launch developments before construction is complete. Buyers are advised to obtain and thoroughly review floor plans and consider how the layout aligns with their desired design themes and practical living requirements. Seeking professional consultation for in-depth analysis of unit layouts is recommended. #CondoBuying #FloorPlanAnalysis #RealEstateTips #PropertyLayout #SingaporeProperty #HomeBuying #InteriorDesign #PropertyValue

This article shares valuable shopping tips for HomeGoods, a popular home decor chain known for its deals. The author, a home design director, provides strategies to maximize savings and find unique items. One key recommendation is to shop early in the day, preferably on weekdays like Thursdays, when stores are well-stocked and organized. Mondays can also be good as shipments often arrive then, but may involve more restocking activity. Building a rapport with sales associates is highlighted as a beneficial strategy, especially when searching for specific items or brands, as they can provide alerts on new arrivals. Shoppers are advised to look for red price tags, which indicate clearance prices at HomeGoods and its sister stores (TJ Maxx, Homesense, and Sierra). While dedicated clearance sections exist, marked-down items are often found mixed throughout the store. The article emphasizes the importance of thoroughly searching shelves and displays, as many hidden gems and misplaced items can be found by sifting through layers of products like pillows and artwork. The author recounts an experience of finding a matching storage bin by searching diligently through a stack. Dedicated sections for bedding and towels are presented as prime locations for discovering high-quality items from well-known brands such as Stearns & Foster, Vera Wang, Ralph Lauren, and Calvin Klein at discounted prices. The organizational method of towels by color is noted as a particular advantage for decorators. The kitchen section is identified as another area with excellent deals, offering everything from holiday-themed dish towels to baking pans and branded items like Mikasa dishes and Le Creuset baking dishes. HomeGoods is also recommended as a go-to for wooden cutting boards, suitable for both meal prep and charcuterie presentations. The article encourages shoppers to remain open to discovering lesser-known brands, as quality is not solely dependent on brand recognition, and many high-quality products come from smaller companies. This approach is particularly useful for finding multiple items for special occasions or exploring new decor trends. Lastly, shoppers are encouraged to negotiate discounts on slightly defective items and to utilize the store's hold service for larger purchases, ensuring they don't miss out on desired pieces due to immediate transportation challenges. #HomeGoods #ShoppingTips #HomeDecor #DiscountShopping #InteriorDesign #ClearanceDeals #SmartShopping #RetailSecrets

The size, layout, and overall usability of a home are primary factors buyers consider when evaluating properties, as these elements must align with their family size and lifestyle requirements. To enhance a home's attractiveness to potential buyers, real estate experts Leslie Davis and Lyndsay Lamb, known from HGTV's "Unsellable Houses," advocate for creating multiple distinct spaces within a single open-plan area. This strategy was demonstrated in an episode where they transformed a home that had languished on the market for two months, despite its desirable location. The duo successfully divided an open floor plan into a fully furnished and accessorized living room, dining area, and kitchen, thereby showcasing the room's capacity and versatility. Lamb emphasized that this design approach helps buyers visualize the generous proportions of the space from both an aesthetic and functional standpoint. When preparing a home for sale, it is crucial to facilitate a buyer's ability to envision themselves living in the property. This is particularly important for families, who often seek homes that require minimal modifications post-purchase. The core of this approach involves establishing distinct zones that maximize space efficiency without creating a sense of disorder. This enables prospective buyers to appreciate the various functional possibilities within the home. Lyndsay Lamb and Leslie Davis effectively implemented this by defining a dining room area. They repositioned a chandelier to hang directly over the dining table, thereby formalizing the space and clearly delineating it as a dedicated dining zone. Additionally, they utilized large area rugs to further differentiate the mini living room and dining table setups, establishing clear boundaries between these adjacent spaces. In essence, the strategy focuses on demonstrating the potential and functionality of an open-concept layout by visually segmenting it into various purposeful areas. This not only highlights the spaciousness of the property but also provides buyers with a clear understanding of how each section can be utilized, making the home feel more adaptable to their specific needs. The careful placement of furniture, lighting, and floor coverings plays a pivotal role in achieving this clear delineation, transforming a large, undifferentiated space into a series of inviting and functional zones. This approach aims to reduce any uncertainty buyers might have about how to use an open layout, thereby increasing the home's market appeal and reducing its time on the market. #HomeSellingTips #RealEstateAdvice #OpenConceptDesign #HomeStaging #InteriorDesign #HGTVUnsellableHouses #SpaceMaximization #BuyerAppeal #FunctionalSpaces

Selecting the appropriate flooring for a home is a significant decision, often fraught with challenges, as it represents a long-term investment that can define a space for decades. This article consults several local design experts to demystify the process and offer practical advice on choosing the best flooring materials. The designers emphasize that while homeowners may desire the seamless experience often depicted on television, the reality involves careful consideration, including functionality, longevity, and aesthetic balance. They provide insights into various flooring options, current trends, and strategies for making informed choices that align with both personal style and practical needs. Allyson Hicks of Allyson Hicks Design Consulting advocates for timeless flooring choices, particularly for foundational elements like wood floors, stressing that paint colors are much easier to change than an entire floor. Hicks notes a shift away from the previously popular gray wood tones towards warmer hues, which she finds particularly suitable for the Louisiana region as they complement local architectural features like antique beams. While recommending a classic approach for main flooring, she encourages bolder choices and intricate patterns in smaller, less central areas like bathrooms and laundry rooms, where tile work can introduce character without overwhelming the entire home. She suggests using black and white patterns for clients who are hesitant about incorporating bold colors. Meghann Landry of McMillin Interiors highlights functionality and design longevity as crucial factors in flooring selection. She advises homeowners to consider how a space will be used to ensure the chosen material meets practical demands. Landry also emphasizes the role of flooring in achieving balance and texture within a room, comparing it to fabrics in its ability to layer and add depth. For bathrooms, she frequently opts for white marble, believing it allows other accents and bolder colors to stand out more effectively, reflecting a trend towards using white stone elements with varying cabinet colors to create visual interest. Karen Giffel of Karen Giffel Interior Design tailors her flooring recommendations to each client's lifestyle, whether casual or formal, and their specific needs, such as accommodating young children. For families with active children, Giffel often suggests vinyl wood tile floors, noting their enhanced durability and aesthetic improvements over time. These materials can withstand significant wear and tear, making them a cost-effective and child-friendly option. Beyond practicality, Giffel also discusses the importance of small, sophisticated details like brass inlays to elevate a design. She highlights that these elements can create a modern yet traditional mix, appealing to current homeowner preferences for blended styles. Ashlyn Elofson from Trends by Design suggests moving beyond traditional wood flooring to create unique design statements through patterned and shaped materials. She expresses enthusiasm for incorporating innovative materials, such as those from the Jamie Beckwith Collection, into upcoming projects. Elofson has recently utilized bleached white oak flooring, appreciating its ability to introduce warmth while maintaining a clean and contemporary look. For areas where budget is a concern, such as bathrooms, she recommends using materials that convincingly mimic more expensive options. For example, porcelain tiles designed to resemble marble offer a budget-friendly solution when combined with genuine marble countertops and backsplashes, effectively reducing costs in areas with extensive square footage while maintaining a luxurious aesthetic. #FlooringDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #DesignTrends #MaterialSelection #TimelessDesign #FunctionalFlooring #BudgetFriendlyDesign #LouisianaDesign

The research team at Zillow has identified key interior finishes and materials that can significantly increase a home's value, analyzing over 350 keywords across 2 million listings. The findings indicate a shift towards an "organic modernism" aesthetic, moving away from the modern farmhouse style, with buyers actively seeking and competing for homes featuring raw but refined finishes. These preferred features can lead to a sale premium of up to 3.5 percent, translating to an average of an additional $12,500 on a typical U.S. home. Among the top features identified, soapstone counters stand out, outperforming quartz by contributing to a 3.5 percent sale premium compared to quartz's 2.6 percent. Soapstone's natural character adds an old-world charm that resonates with buyers. An example cited is designer Sary Em's Philadelphia kitchen, where a soapstone-topped island was integrated into a late 1800s house, providing accessible storage and harmonizing with the home's historical context. Wet rooms, defined as fully waterproofed bathrooms, are another feature that enhances home value, potentially boosting it by 3.3 percent. This trend encourages the elimination of shower doors in favor of extensive use of materials like tile, Tadelakt, or marble slabs, creating a seamless and luxurious bathroom experience. White oak floors are also a significant value-add, contributing to a 3.2 percent increase in sale price. This suggests that the flooring choice is a crucial detail for potential buyers. Beyond white oak, other desirable flooring options include herringbone patterns and cork, indicating a preference for unique and natural materials underfoot. Finally, Venetian plaster walls offer a sophisticated way to add softness and texture to a space without relying on excessive decor. This decorative finish can increase a home's value by 3 percent. An illustration of its effectiveness is seen in influencer Remi Ishizuka's Texas living quarters, where designers utilized Venetian plaster around a fireplace hood and window bench. This application created a streamlined look and effectively neutralized stark architectural elements like cold gray stone pillars, demonstrating its ability to transform and unify a room's aesthetic. #HomeValue #RealEstate #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovations #ZillowResearch #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #FlooringTrends #WallFinishes

This article offers an expert guide to shopping effectively at HomeGoods, a popular home decor chain known for its deals. The author, a home design director, shares her personal strategies and tips to maximize the shopping experience and find valuable items. She emphasizes the importance of timing, recommending that shoppers visit their local HomeGoods store right when it opens, ideally on a weekday such as a Thursday, when shelves are more likely to be fully stocked and the store is less crowded. Shipments typically arrive on Mondays, so visiting later in the week can ensure a wider selection as restocking progresses. Building a rapport with sales associates is highlighted as a beneficial strategy, particularly for those seeking specific items or brands. Friendly staff members might provide advance notice about the arrival of desired products. Shoppers are also advised to look for red price tags throughout the store, as these indicate clearance items and potential discounts, even outside the designated clearance sections. Thoroughly searching all areas of the store, including the back of shelves and misplaced items, is encouraged to uncover hidden gems and unique finds that might otherwise be overlooked. The article specifically recommends focusing on the bedding and towel sections, where high-quality items from well-known brands like Stearns & Foster, Vera Wang, Lauren by Ralph Lauren, and Calvin Klein can often be found at reduced prices. These sections are frequently organized by color, which aids in selecting items that match specific home decor palettes. The kitchen section is another area highlighted for excellent deals on essentials such as dish towels, baking pans, and branded items like Mikasa dishes and Le Creuset baking dishes. The author particularly favors HomeGoods for purchasing wooden cutting boards for both meal preparation and charcuterie presentations. Additionally, the article suggests being open to discovering lesser-known brands, as brand names do not always equate to higher quality. Many high-quality products, especially those aligning with new home decor trends or needed in multiples for special occasions (such as cloth napkins or colored glassware), can come from emerging or independent companies. Finally, a practical tip for defective items is provided: shoppers should not hesitate to ask for a discount if an item has minor imperfections that can be easily addressed or concealed. The author also advises utilizing the store's hold service for larger items, recounting a personal experience of holding an entryway bench to arrange for suitable transportation, thereby securing a desired purchase. #HomeGoods #ShoppingTips #HomeDecor #ClearanceDeals #InteriorDesign #RetailTherapy #SmartShopping #KitchenEssentials #BeddingAndTowels

The article explores the long-standing real estate adage that wallpaper can hinder a home's sale, examining whether this conventional wisdom still applies in today's market. Wallpaper, a design feature known for adding flair and personality, often represents a very personal choice, and not everyone shares the same aesthetic preferences, particularly for bold patterns or vibrant colors. Even subtle options like solid-color grasscloth are more challenging to change than a simple coat of paint. Traditionally, real estate brokers have advised sellers to opt for neutral paint tones to appeal to a broader audience. However, wallpaper has seen a resurgence in popularity recently, with the advent of easier-to-install options like peel-and-stick varieties, making wall coverings less permanent. The article delves into the impact of existing, potentially outdated, wallpaper on a home's marketability and whether sellers should undertake the costly process of stripping walls before listing. Experts offer nuanced perspectives, suggesting that the effect of wallpaper on home sales is not uniform. Tita Omeze, a Corcoran broker with an interior design background, notes that stylish wallpaper from the last 15 years can be a positive attribute, even opening buyers' eyes to design possibilities. She points out that cool mid-century modern wallpaper from the 1950s and 60s can sometimes be a bonus, illustrating how she once layered art over vintage wallpaper in a West Village listing, which generated positive feedback from buyers who appreciated the eclectic look, even if they intended to remove it later. Conversely, Drew Coleman, a realtor from Oregon and founder of Opt Real Estate, identifies older, dated wallpapers, particularly those from the 1980s with ornate floral designs and strong adhesives, as significant deterrents. These types of wallpaper can signal a huge and difficult removal task to potential buyers. The condition of the wallpaper also plays a crucial role. Faded wallpaper or peeling seams indicate neglect, according to Omeze, suggesting to buyers that the home has not been well-maintained. In such cases, she advises sellers to remove the wallpaper and repaint with a fresh coat. Both experts emphasize the importance of neutrality when aiming to attract the largest pool of potential buyers. Coleman reiterates that wallpaper can be divisive, and a neutral palette typically helps buyers envision their own style in the space, often recommending removal and repainting in neutral tones. The quality of installation is another critical factor. Expertly applied wallpaper is key; bubbles, tears, or misaligned patterns can create a negative impression. The article also suggests strategic use of wallpaper in specific areas. Coleman advises treating wallpaper like a spice in cooking, using it sparingly to elevate certain spaces without overwhelming the entire home. He recommends incorporating wallpaper in smaller, less high-traffic areas such as powder rooms, foyers, or on accent walls, where it can differentiate the home without dominating the aesthetic. Ultimately, while the decision to use wallpaper in one's home is a personal one that should bring joy, the article advises homeowners to consider the long-term commitment and potential impact on resale. If there's a possibility of growing tired of the design, a more permanent wallpaper choice might warrant reconsideration. The overarching message is that while modern, well-maintained, and strategically placed wallpaper can be an asset, outdated or poorly installed wallpaper remains a potential hurdle in the home-selling process. #HomeSales #WallpaperTrends #InteriorDesign #RealEstateTips #HomeStaging #DesignDecisions #PropertyValue #RenovationAdvice

Sheena Murphy, founder of nune studio, offers insights into her approach to interior design, emphasizing that thoughtful design enhances overall wellbeing. Her style is characterized as modern, eclectic, layered, and planet-aware, reflecting her belief in creating comfortable and livable spaces. Murphy has completed projects in both London and the US, currently basing her operations in London while incorporating a distinctive "Stateside cool" into her designs. She identifies her 8th Street Townhouse and Charles Street projects as personal favorites, highlighting the collaborative process involved in their creation, whether with architects or directly with contractors. Murphy primarily uses neutrals, particularly warmer tones, as foundational backdrops, citing Farrow & Ball's Purbeck Stone, Ammonite, Elephant’s Breath, and Jitney, along with Atelier Ellis’s Stony Plaster, as preferred choices. She expresses a particular enjoyment in designing children's rooms, which she finds allow for a more playful and whimsical approach, demanding multi-functionality and adaptability due to children's rapid development. These spaces often push her to experiment with color and pattern more extensively. Her creative process is also significantly influenced by the simplicity and natural beauty of the British countryside, which she finds invigorating. For timeless interiors, she admires Vincent Van Duysen and Axel Vervoodt, while for contemporary and layered designs, she looks to Decus Interiors, Templeton Architecture, and Ashe Leandro. She also keeps an eye on the distinctive work of designers like Brian Paquette, Rose Uniacke, and Disc Interiors, and draws inspiration from Instagram accounts such as Sarah Elliott, Rebecca Wakefield, The Modern House, and Genevieve Lutkin. When initiating a room design, Murphy prioritizes surveying the space and taking detailed measurements of existing architectural elements. For small spaces, she recommends investing in lighting, window treatments, and sofas, noting that curtains or roman shades and sculptural lighting can significantly transform a room. Sofas are considered a crucial investment due to their frequent use. In large open-plan areas, her strategy focuses on creating defined zones through furniture and textiles, emphasizing the importance of space planning, furniture layouts, rugs, lighting, and storage to provide division and definition. Regarding decorating, Murphy's color scheme and mood board development are informed by the property’s external environment, the client’s lifestyle, and the home’s architecture. This comprehensive approach guides the selection of color palettes, forms, and materials, influencing shapes and styles. For a single room, she typically uses one wall color, accentuating architectural details with tonal variations. She appreciates mixing patterns but stresses the importance of scale to allow each pattern to stand out, with the number of patterns varying based on room size and type. For eclectic furniture arrangements, a unifying color palette is essential to prevent a chaotic atmosphere. Murphy advises against chasing trends, advocating for timeless designs and planet-friendly, natural materials that ensure longevity. She encourages purchasing items loved and intended for long-term use, ensuring they serve a purpose and connect with other aesthetic elements. Functionality is paramount in kitchen design. While she favors wood and limestone for flooring, she cautions against wood for messy cooks due to maintenance. Limestone is highlighted as a durable, cost-effective, and easy-to-maintain natural alternative. For worktops, marble is her preferred choice, although she suggests limestone or quartzite as natural alternatives for those hesitant about marble's cost or perceived delicacy. She avoids porcelain or quartz, favoring natural stones, but acknowledges stainless steel for its utilitarian appeal in avid cooks' kitchens. Paint colors are always selected in natural daylight, with attention paid to bulb temperature to avoid distortion. Finally, Murphy advises splurging on lighting and vintage pieces, while saving on occasional items like side tables, secondary chairs, and accessories. For budget-conscious projects, prioritizing paint and lighting is key. She concludes by listing her preferred vendors for various interior design elements, including furniture, fabrics, joinery, kitchens, bathrooms, wallpaper, paint, lighting, flooring, tiles, and kitchen hardware. #InteriorDesign #SheenaMurphy #NuneStudio #HomeDecor #DesignTips #EcoFriendlyDesign #NeutralPalette #SpacePlanning #KitchenDesign

Interior designers possess a unique ability to transform any space, from a neglected room to a blank canvas, into an aesthetically pleasing and functional environment. This article delves into six such 'secrets' that professional designers employ to achieve magazine-worthy results, often overlooked by the general public. These strategies emphasize foundational elements, subtle details, and impactful accents that collectively elevate a home's design. One significant technique involves manipulating architectural elements, specifically by incorporating vaulted ceilings. Designer Suzanne Barrow frequently includes vaulted ceilings in renovations or new builds. These ceilings add considerable architectural character, whether through a subtle pitch, exposed beams, or a full cathedral style. By turning the ceiling into a focal point, this design choice transforms an often-ignored surface into a defining feature that dramatically enhances the overall house design and visual appeal. Another crucial, yet often underestimated, detail is the strategic concealment of outlets. Yvonne Harty, a Sacramento-based interior designer, highlights the transformative power of these minor adjustments. While furniture can effectively hide outlets in living areas, Harty offers specific solutions for kitchens. She recommends concealing outlets under upper cabinets, within drawers, or utilizing flush-mount outlets. This practice maintains clean and visually uninterrupted backsplashes, a priority especially with the rising trend of stone backsplashes over traditional tiles. Furthermore, gaining a fresh perspective on one's living space is essential for identifying and rectifying design flaws. Reanna Channer, founder of Design to Elevate, suggests photographing a room to achieve this objective. She learned early in her career that photography acts as a powerful diagnostic tool, revealing precisely what needs adjustment in a space that feels 'off.' This objective visual assessment can pinpoint issues that are otherwise difficult to perceive with the naked eye. The foundation of a well-designed room, according to Channer, lies in meticulous furniture layout. She advocates for using an area rug as a guiding element for furniture arrangement. An area rug serves as an ultimate tool for defining a space, grounding key furniture pieces, and establishing clear pathways for movement, thereby enhancing both functionality and aesthetic coherence. Lighting, often considered solely for its practical purpose, is another area where designers implement impactful strategies. Relying on a single light source is a common oversight. Instead, designers, such as Barrow, emphasize layering multiple light sources, including ambient, task, and accent lighting. Each type of lighting contributes to creating a specific mood or 'moment' within the home, serving both decorative and functional roles simultaneously. Finally, an accessible yet impactful accessory for instantly elevating a room is the use of a large vase filled with sprawling branches. Channer suggests this as a cost-effective way to introduce significant drama and scale into a space. This accent can draw attention away from undecorated areas and instantly refresh a room's appearance. The principle here is often to 'go bigger,' selecting generously sized branches to maximize visual impact. These six designer secrets, from architectural enhancements to subtle decor choices, underscore the nuanced approach professionals take to create harmonious and visually appealing interiors. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTips #SpacePlanning #LightingDesign #ArchitecturalDetails #FurnitureArrangement #DIYDesign #KitchenDesign

The article presents 80 interior design ideas compiled from professional designers, offering actionable advice to personalize and enhance living spaces, regardless of budget or size. The introduction emphasizes the rewarding nature of transforming a space and the value of expert input in achieving a dream home environment. The guide aims to help readers infuse their personality into their homes, covering aspects from selecting bedroom paint colors and window treatments to choosing the perfect couch. Key themes highlighted throughout the various design tips include marrying old and new elements, as demonstrated by Maggie Clarke, who refinishes inherited furniture to give spaces a soulful quality. The importance of lighting in open-concept areas is discussed, with Tamara Honey explaining how lighting can serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. Strategic storage solutions are also covered, such as Adam Ben Wagner's approach to integrating kitchen cabinetry as full-height bookshelves, creating a seamless transition between spaces. The article also addresses designing for comfort and inclusivity, suggesting that guest spaces should not be overlooked, as highlighted by Amber Lewis's design of a guest bathroom with a luxurious soaker tub. Unique touches like hidden speakeasies behind bookcases, also by Amber Lewis, and personalized elements inspired by one's quirks, like Breegan Jane's Moroccan fountain for auditory privacy, are presented as ways to add character. Practical considerations such as playing to a room's proportions, as Janie Molster did with tall draperies in a breakfast room, and designing for the realities of family life, including using performance fabrics for mess-prone areas, are also discussed. Further design insights include adding dimension to small spaces through architectural features like arched ceilings, as advised by Kelly Hurliman. The creation of inviting and serene functional areas, such as a home gym by Tanya and Jim Ryno of Iron House Design, is also featured. The significance of adequate seating for entertaining, with Dane Austin's rule of matching living room and dining room capacity, and the value of looking to the past for cozy elements, like Anne McDonald's English snug, are also shared. The use of grounding elements to balance patterns, a secret from Colleen Simonds, and veering away from tradition, such as using a portable island instead of a built-in one by Fort Design Studio, are innovative ideas. The article also includes practical tips like working around one's lifestyle by installing convenient spice drawers, as showcased by Fort Design Studio, and tweaking layouts to maximize perceived space, as demonstrated by architect J.E. Schram's kitchen remodel. Collectively, these diverse ideas provide a comprehensive guide for homeowners to transform their living spaces with professional flair and personal resonance.

This guide outlines essential steps for accurately measuring a room to determine the required amount of flooring, applicable to real wood, luxury vinyl, and laminate options. The primary method involves calculating the area in square meters (m²), as flooring is typically sold in this unit. For rectangular rooms, the calculation is straightforward: multiply the length by the width. For example, a room that is 4 meters long and 3 meters wide would require 12 m² of flooring. More complex room shapes, such as L-shaped rooms or those with bay windows and alcoves, require a more segmented approach. The strategy involves dividing the irregularly shaped room into multiple smaller rectangles. Each rectangle's area is calculated by multiplying its length by its width. Subsequently, the areas of all these individual rectangles are added together to determine the total square meterage of the room. This ensures that every part of the floor area is accounted for, preventing underestimation of material needs. A crucial aspect of flooring estimation is accounting for wastage. It is recommended to add at least 10% to the total calculated area to cover potential off-cuts, mistakes during installation, or the need for specific-sized pieces to start new rows. This 10% buffer is calculated by multiplying the room's total m² by 1.10. For instance, if a room's area is 12 m², an additional 1.2 m² would be needed, bringing the total to 13.2 m². This allowance is vital because during the installation process, cuts are often necessary around obstacles like pipes or for achieving a staggered pattern, leading to leftover pieces that cannot be fully utilized. Having an adequate buffer prevents delays and additional costs associated with ordering more material mid-project. This proactive approach ensures a smoother installation and avoids situations where necessary pieces are unavailable. #RoomMeasurement #FlooringInstallation #HomeImprovement #DIYFlooring #MaterialEstimation #WastageAllowance #FloorPlanning

This article showcases a collection of outstanding projects from prominent local interior designers, each highlighting a unique approach to creating captivating spaces. Scott Sanders' cabana exemplifies 'Island Style,' blending 1970s inspiration with contemporary pieces and vibrant colors like cobalt blue and turquoise. The design incorporates natural elements such as bamboo, wicker, and rattan, contributing to a tropical yet sophisticated ambiance. Gil Walsh Interiors presents a living room themed 'Among the Stars,' characterized by a harmonious blend of turquoise, citron, lighter blues, ivories, and grays. Walsh's design focuses on brightening the space and integrating modern fixtures with a mid-century feel to complement the architectural geometry, featuring glamorous starburst motifs. Katherine Shenaman Interiors crafted a 'Pretty in Pink' nursery, embodying a fresh and modern aesthetic while retaining youthful charm. The room is dominated by rosy pink, with a Bradley USA wallpaper and a Wendy Clark Designs rug. Whimsical elements, such as rabbit chairs by Stefano Giovannoni, cater to children's playfulness. Sara McCann Design Group redefines game rooms with 'Playing Favorites,' proving they can be both fun and stylish. The design for a family game room lounge uses brilliant greens and rich caramels against white cypress walls and ceilings, inspired by Palmetto fabric and enhanced by viridian Winnie lamps, creating a luxurious and comfortable tropical atmosphere. Krista Watterworth Alterman of Krista + Home introduces a 'Feast for the Eyes' with a Bali-inspired contemporary kitchen that deviates from typical all-white designs. It features dark woods, natural materials like banana bark chandeliers, gold upholstered stools, and integrated appliances, presenting an earthy yet modern aesthetic with a global and moody vibe. Angela Reynolds Designs, in collaboration with Smith Architectural Group and Davis General Contracting, showcases 'Contemporary Glamour' in a dining room. This design merges classic architecture with contemporary elements, including black fluted lacquer columns and a custom dining table with silver-leaf banding. The room's focal point is a pair of John Pomp chandeliers, whose handblown glass clusters illuminate the space while preserving ocean views. Lorraine Rogers-Bolton of Rogers Design Group, with Amanda Wyant-Binns, created a 'Dream Weaver' bathroom that fulfills a client's vision of tranquility. The space features a silver and crystal chandelier, calming grays and whites in the wall covering, snowy stone with gray veins, and an oval tub, all contributing to an ethereal, airy, and contemporary feel. Finally, Jim Dove Design’s 'Letting in the Light' kitchen in a Hobe Sound home emphasizes natural illumination. Dove integrated three windows to maximize light, which enhances crisp white accents, high-gloss white cabinetry, and countertops. Serene azure blues in the Sub-Zero refrigerator and custom cupboards create a calm ambiance, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryInteriors #DesignTrends #PalmBeachDesign #ResidentialDesign #ContemporaryGlamour #IslandStyle #KitchenDesign