Basements have a reputation for being dark, cold, and generally unpleasant to be in unless it is fully converted. But how can you keep a basement warm to make it more functional, be it a storage spot, utility room, or secret den?

From insulation to kitting it out with the right furnishings, there are several ways you can trap heat to make this underground space a little more habitable.

There is more to it than investing in the best way to heat a basement, however. Here’s what the experts suggest to keep it toasty.

How to keep a basement warm

If you are rarely in your basement, you might not see much point in keeping it warm. However, Nick Barber, LLC manager at Utilities Now, points out that it could damage your home. ‘Keeping a basement warm is a matter of both comfort and protection. A cold basement can lead to moisture accumulation, which invites mold and mildew to grow, presenting health risks and structural damage. A warm basement, on the other hand, reduces the overall demand for energy in your house by reducing heat loss from the upper floors. It is an investment in both your home's longevity and your daily comfort.’

With that in mind, here’s how to keep the heat in without sending your bills sky-high.

1. Add a source of heat

It should go without saying that to keep a space warm, you need something to heat it. For basements, there are a few home heating options depending on how you use the space, continues Nick Barber.

He explains, ‘The most appropriate way to heat a basement depends on its size and the purposes the basement is put to.

‘Space heaters [such as the top-rated Skonyon portable oscillating space heater, from Target] for small areas are the go-to solution for the sake of speed and saving money, but extending the central HVAC system or using radiant floor heating, particularly for long-term fixation, is advisable. Otherwise, electric baseboard heaters or ductless mini-split systems would also be fine in terms of efficiency, performance, and controllable heat.

‘If the basement is frequently used, the installment of radiant flooring (one of the best basement floors) assures unwavering warmth and comfort.’

2. Add thick soft furnishings

Heating will certainly help to keep your basement warm, but that heat will quickly dissipate if it is soaking into cold brick and concrete.

Brad Roberson, president at Aire Serv, a Neighborly company, suggests using cozy decorating ideas to kit out a basement with thick soft furnishings to add an extra layer of comfort that will keep heat in – ‘They can also use carpets to help insulate the floor. Investing in thermal curtains [available in several lengths and colors at Walmart] is a great curtain hack for a warmer home, and can also help keep the temperature comfortable.’

3. Insulate and seal drafts

As with any other area of the home, basement insulation ideas and draft-proofing will help to stop air transfer to keep warm air in and cold air out.

Nick Barber says, ‘Insulating an uninsulated basement is a great way to retain warmth. Start by sealing gaps and cracks in the foundation walls with caulk or expanding spray foam. Install rigid foam insulation boards directly onto the walls or spray foam to create a thermal barrier. For the floors, add an insulated subfloor or area rugs to reduce cold transfer.

‘Besides, insulating pipes and ducts can also stop the loss of heat from your space and keep your entire space more comfortable during a harsh winter. In the process, it'll make the basement cozier, plus it improves overall energy efficiency to cut energy bills for your home.’

4. Check door and window seals

If your basement has external access points, Max Veggeberg, HVAC expert and CEO at Tetra recommends checking them over and fixing drafty doors or sealing window gaps to stop air leaks. ‘Ensuring all exterior doors and windows are properly sealed and insulated will further enhance warmth and make heating more efficient in the basement,’ he explains.

Basements are one of the best spots to insulate in a home to keep it warm all winter. To truly eliminate hot and cold spots in your basement, consider using a thermal camera, from Amazon, to locate cold points in the space, and focus your efforts on insulating these areas. A professional contractor will be able to do this for you and advise on the best type of insulation for your space, too, to keep a poorly insulated home warm.

Once the home of a French film star, this grand art deco villa with its striking pink facade in the south of France was the epitome of faded glory when bought by the present owners. They decided to seek the help of the experts who had helped with the house design of their London home, to restore the villa to its former glory.

That's where Georgina Cave, the creative director and founder of Cave Interiors, came in - she worked on the villa with her daughter Anouska and their team. She comments, ‘It was very much about renovating and bringing it back to what it would’ve been in its heyday'. 

Georgia explains, 'Most of the original features were missing so we reintroduced panelling and cornicing.’ They also opened up window arches and designed the new fanlights in the salon, introducing them over internal doors in other areas such as the bureau and main bedroom. ‘We continued that theme throughout the house to make it more in keeping with the Art Deco aesthetic and French style’, she continues.

The property is listed – the exterior paint color was sacrosanct, for instance. Work allowed included the building of a timber-clad extension at the back of the property with a kitchen, snug, two bedrooms, and a bathroom. A new basement created the space to incorporate a playroom, three bedrooms (two of which benefit from en suites), a family bathroom, and a utility, as well as a redesigned statement staircase.

Cave Interiors were responsible for the planning, which involved reconfiguration of some of the rooms. Upstairs for instance, the main suite was redesigned to create a main bedroom, dressing room, bathroom, and a guest bedroom with an en-suite.

The interior is imbued with an elegant, enduring quality. ‘The client didn’t want the country Provençal look so we worked closely with her to create a classic and timeless design,’ says Georgina. ‘It needed to be in keeping with the environment, so we chose local stone and colors with the Mediterranean light in mind.’

The decor exudes ‘a gentle glamour that encompasses the taste of the client’, and this is epitomized, for example, by the number of pendant lights. ‘The one in the bureau was the first one we sourced and a favorite of ours,’ says Anouska. ‘The client likes pieces with glass so there’s a lot of Murano. Around 90 percent of the lighting was antique - much of it is mid-century.’

The statement kitchen includes an informal dining area that opens onto the terrace. It was a difficult space to design because of its long and narrow shape. The client was inspired by fluted marble, so Cave Interiors designed an arresting Arabescato Corchia marble island. Green kitchen cabinetry, which picks up on the goldy green threads running through the marble, was chosen to complement it.

A muted color palette is used throughout the home. ‘It’s soft and gentle to work with the light,’ says Georgina. The client was open to the occasional strong colour and this is showcased in the bureau where an unexpected red introduces verve. ‘We wanted to create a bold statement with the deep red,’ says Anouska. ‘It has a masculine air but elements of prettiness.’

The elegant redesigned staircase creates an instant impact. ‘The idea was to have this lovely, flowing, circular feel. The steps at the base are curved to bring you round as you walk down, which was important,’ says Georgina.

Paneling is carried down the staircase and through the rest of the house, injecting flow and grandeur as well. ‘We wanted it to feel quite majestic because it is a grand villa and makes a statement with its beautiful architecture.’

Meet the designers

Georgina and Anouska Cave share their style inspiration

What part of the home was the biggest indulgence?

The fluted Arabescato marble-clad kitchen island.

What one small change has the biggest impact?

Creating the effect of a single-pane window in the main salon overlooking the sea.

What's your go-to color?

A combination of Farrow & Ball’s Slipper Satin and Lime White in the main areas to create a neutral backdrop.

Favorite homeware brand?

Fiona McDonald for vintage and bespoke.

Describe your style in three words.

Masculine yet pretty.

Reveal a secret address we should know about. 

Les Trois Garcons for vintage and antique pieces stored in its warehouse in France.

Can you recommend an Instagram account we should be following?

Atelier Vime.

We are currently seeing a big revival of Art Deco decor in 2024. A look synonymous with the glitz and glamor of the Roaring Twenties, it is a truly opulent and luxurious style. 

While this bold and rich style of decor may not be for everyone, this year's interior design trends are all about channeling an eclectic, transitional look that marries together a collection of different design influences, and there are many ways you can add an Art Deco feel to your home without going overboard, as seen in Zoe Saldana's beautiful Beverly Hills kitchen.

Her Art Deco kitchen showcases a sophisticated blend of the warm and the cool, the industrial and the decadent, and is a wonderful example of how to channel an Art Deco style in a more modern setting.

Designed by Italian-based kitchen brand, Officine Gullo, the kitchen is a wonderful celebration of Art Deco design, and highlights a truly luxurious blend of materials.

The design features an agate gray color scheme, beautiful burnished brass detailing, and stunning green forest marble for the kitchen countertop ideas and kitchen backsplash ideas.

The striking brass trim used across the kitchen cabinets and hardware works wonderfully to create that glamorous Art Deco feel, with the contrasting gray color scheme helping to offer a note of calming contrast; helping to make the overall kitchen ideas feel fresh and contemporary. 

Jennifer Ebert, Homes & Gardens' digital editor, discusses how Art Deco has returned for 2024. 'When many of us picture Art Deco spaces, we are drawn to big, bold maximalist designs that showcase sleek geometric patterns, tactile tassels and fringes, glass and velvet. However, for this year's interior design trends, we are seeing many designers incorporate elements of Art Deco in a more subtle and sophisticated way.'

She continues, 'As shown in Zoe Saldana's kitchen, the striking brass detailing helps to add that glamorous, Art Deco edge to the space, with the simple gray color palette and beautiful marble finish adding a more relaxing and minimalist note to the space. This modern kitchen exudes a sense of calm and tranquillity, yet still feels wonderfully warm, luxurious, and, of course, functional.'

Shop the look

If you're looking to incorporate elements of an Art Deco style in your home but are unsure on where to start, we explore in our dedicated feature, 'Updated Deco' is the trending way to embrace an Art Deco aesthetic in 2024.

As with all iconic interior design styles, they never really go away. Occasionally, however, they will surface with more prominence and excitement in the decor world. Stemming from the French 'Arts décoratifs,' Art Deco, was born in Paris, emerging around 1910 as somewhat of a metaphor for new life following World War I. 

Defined by geometric lines and symmetry – quite a different look to the sinuous and nature-inspired aesthetic of its predecessor, Art Nouveau – Art Deco decor is filled with theatre and symphony. 

Synonymous with luxurious hotels and Parisian-style interiors, it is no wonder this style is sought after to elevate bathroom ideas. Defining shapes, gold tones, and drama, we explore how best to translate the timeless appeal of Art Deco in a bathroom setting.

Art Deco bathroom ideas that are timeless and inspiring

Since Art Deco is having a moment, we sought inspiration from those who know this interior design style best. Here are some bathroom looks to covet:

1. Combine sumptuous paneling and marble

Since the Art Deco movement began in France, who better to introduce us to a modern style Art Deco bathroom than interior designer Hugo Toro? 

Hugo talks us through the Art Deco features in this Appartement Saints-Pères project in Paris. 'The use of green marble and dark wood offers a rich and elegant contrast, typical of the Art Deco style. Clean yet strong lines, and the emphasis on angles, especially with a bathtub positioned at a 45-degree angle, reflect the geometry and symmetry favored by Art Deco.'

The space is rich in shapes, arresting materials, and texture, and the trio color palette is luxurious in every sense of the word too – symbolic of the daringness this era had to offer. 'The emerald green color of the marble directly references the bold and luxurious color choices of Art Deco,' Hugo shares with me.

'The theatricality of the space, including the presence of a step, evokes the importance of staging and theatrics in Art Deco design.'

Hugo has included Lalique-signed fixtures in this bathroom space and it is these fine details of sophistication and craftsmanship that nod to the iconic interior design style in a timeless yet modern way.

2. Give the space warmth with intriguing colors and pattern

From the brass fixtures, to the small frame adorning the characterful bathroom mirror, there is so much to love in this bathroom space that plays hommage to Art Deco in a subtle fashion. Designed by Pierce and Ward for @joshbrolin @kathrynbrolin, it is a bathroom design that is unique, and full of personality.

'We love tile and small spaces so bathrooms are always really fun for us to create,' says Emily Ward and Louisa Pierce. 'For this Malibu project, the house is so open with such beautiful natural light so we wanted to take advantage and use pattern and color to embrace the coziness but still have them feel fun and interesting,

'We don't call out styles like Art Deco when we are working but it's one of our favorites and we are always so happy when people connect that.'

3. Nod to the charm of the time with a chandelier

Lighting can give a bathroom edge, as Maestri Studio proves in this space which is infused with all the Gatsby-style luxury of the Art Deco era.

The gold chandelier and trio of sconces elevate the luxury bathroom scheme by bringing detailed shapes and dimensions to the ensuite. When it comes to choosing fixtures, consider fluted designs, frosted bulbs, crystal, and gilded detail for your bathroom to feel luxurious.

4. Include playful detail for theatre

Vintage pieces can always have a place in a modern setting, as we can see here in Josh and Kathyrn Brolin's bathroom, also designed by Pierce and Ward. This space proves how bathroom tiles can be loud and unapologetic, bringing all of the flair you would expect of the Art Deco era. 

The twist with the vintage sink, is that it has its own high heels, of course. But this is not the only design talking point. Shapely sconces, exposed pipework, and artwork are all reflective of the exciting scene. 

5. Employ a black and white tile color palette

For those who like monochromatic drama, Lauren Lerner of Living with Lolo shows us how to make an Art Deco statement with a head-to-toe tiled walk-in. 

'To infuse this bathroom with Art Deco charm, I highlighted bold contrasts and geometric patterns,' Lauren tells me. A contrast of strong repeat patterns makes this space sing and it is the ultimate demonstration of charisma.

6. Bring life with brighter hues

This is not to say that brighter, more dopamine-filled colors have no place. Printed turquoise blue blinds work particularly well as a bathroom window treatment in this space. Brights can bring the effervescence of Art Deco to a bathroom, especially when paired with more demure materials as Lauren Lerner of Living with Lolo has done here.

'Employing a color palette of black and white, accentuated by a splash of color and hints of brass, the space exudes a sophisticated allure. Geometric tiles and sleek chrome fixtures contribute to the Art Deco aesthetic,' Lauren shares with me.

'Statement mirrors and ornate lighting with angular designs were incorporated, complemented by accessories and a distinctive wood and resin side table, resulting in a refined yet timeless ambiance.'

7. Make it zen and lofty

Born in a period of enlightenment, a spa-like bathroom finish can pair well with notions of Art Deco, as designer Ina Rinderknecht shows here. The soft veining in the marble basin, light gloss tile, and frosted finish of the sconces marry together for a charming finish.

Use neutral beige bathroom tones and layer patterns to infuse the charm of Art Deco in an understated and chic way,

8. Let gold finishes define the design

From the reflective gold tones to the circular mirrors, this bathroom is full of intrigue and design aspects. Much like in Art Deco living room ideas, bronze can work hard alone, or be used to accentuate other more prominent features in this style of interiors.

9. Punctuate the canvas with geometric lines

For Art Deco appeal in plain and beautiful sight, accent a neutral bathroom with clean geometric lines. 'The Art Deco style harks back to the 1920s and 30s and is characterized by geometric shapes, rich colors, and luxury finishes. Despite taking inspiration from over 100 years ago, the Art Deco look has a timeless quality which is sure to stand the test of time,' says Joanne Sangster, Senior Designer Ripples London. 

'A monochrome scheme is always a good place to start when creating an Art Deco-inspired bathroom and can be incorporated in a number of interesting ways,' continues Joanne Sangster of Ripples. In this gorgeous design, black framed mirrors add impact and define the space, without dominating.

10. Lean into curves and arch details

To bring the shape of the Art Deco movement into the architectural detail, we love the metro tile arch in this bathroom by Maestri Studio. The matte black shower fixtures teamed with a patterned floor tile add further depth, and make a striking canvas that is simply elevated by gold detail.

FAQs

What are the best colors to use in an Art Deco bathroom?

A rich color palette that exudes glamour deserves a place in an Art Deco bathroom, just as a black and white, or more monochrome scheme also lends itself to this style. 

'I love using white metro tiles with black grouting to create a striking contrast. These can then be paired with pops of colors such as rich blues, deep greens and even mustard yellows,' says Joanne Sangster of Ripples. Use artwork, tile, and fixtures as an opportunity to introduce different hues and luxurious finishes.

'Then special finish brassware can be layered on top of this to bring that element of luxury that characterized Art Deco design. 'Elsewhere in the scheme, you can incorporate patterns, through wallpaper, accessories or even a modesty panel. A scallop, diamond or fan design works really well to channel the glamour of the era, and can be made as bold or as subtle as you like.'

If you were wondering whether Art Decor is back on trend? We think all these bathrooms prove this classic style will always be on trend...

It's no secret that Art Deco is having a bit of a revival in 2024. But while we're totally on board with a return to glitz and glamour, this era-defining design style can feel both daunting and at times, a little too costumey. That's where 'Updated Deco' comes in.

Updated or 'new' deco marries the distinctive art deco decor style of the 1920s and 30s with contemporary style. Think geometrics, opulent materials, curved lines, and a retro color palette that works to bring oodles of personality and character into your home. 

Sound intriguing? We've sat down with design experts to find out their favorite ways to inject a roaring twenties twist into interiors with the updated deco trend. Here's what they had to say. 

What is the 'Updated Deco' trend?

In order to avoid your scheme feeling like a Great Gatsby-themed party, it's important to embrace an overall simple-meets-high-society vibe. This can be done one of five ways, as we've highlighted below. Here, we share the 5 best characteristics of updated deco decor, and how to use them in your home.

1. A retro color palette

When it comes to updated deco, less is definitely more. To avoid your scheme looking too literal, take a more muted and retro approach to the Art Deco color palette.

Art Deco was an age of riotous joy, noise, cocktails, glamour, and color. And while that sounds like a great foundation for a home bar scheme, perhaps that doesn't translate quite so much throughout the entire home. Draw inspiration from retro color trends and look to bring in a color palette made up of rich burgundies, sage greens, light blues, and buttery yellows. 

In contemporary spaces, it's all about creating a contrast. Pairing rich, saturated tones with neutral backgrounds that let the colors breathe and introducing vibrant accents to add drama to more subdued hues. Incorporating earthy tones like terracotta, ochre, and olive green will add a sense of warmth and authenticity to updated deco interiors.

2. Curved lines, rounded corners, and pill shapes

Clean lines and angular, shapes define the Art Deco movement. But a great way to soften the hard lines of modern minimalism is to embrace fluid, sweeping curves, circular shapes, archways, and rounded corners. From arched doorways and curved moldings to circular mirrors and elliptical patterns, these softer lines imbue spaces with a sense of past and present, like in the Art Deco kitchen seen above.

This departure from hardness signals a shift towards a more inviting approach to Art Deco. The resurgence of pill-shaped furniture and decor has become emblematic of the updated deco aesthetic, evoking a sense of nostalgia for the iconic designs of the era, while the organic silhouette brings a contemporary sensibility.

'I like little hints of a motif, rather than a full-on homage to a time period,' says interior designer Bethany Adams. 'So maybe the lines of the furniture or lighting reference the time period, but are very much from the modern world. Art is a fun way to nod to Art Deco, too, because it was such a visually rich time and there are graphic prints and artworks that can easily be incorporated into your current scheme without having to commit to a full overhaul,' she suggests.

3. Gilded and glamourous small details

Its the small details that make the biggest impact, and no interior design style reflects this more than Art Deco. Look to adopt a few interior design tweakments, such as upgraded hardware as seen on the vanity above to bring a little gilded glamour to your existing pieces.

'Embrace opulent architectural details, ornamentation, rich patterns, and textures, or add some of your own,' advises Hannah Fenton, founder of Cult Revival.  'Architectural salvage yards are brimming with such design elements that honor history and serve as great conversation pieces.'

Gold and brass have long been associated with the era, making it the perfect choice for adding a touch of extravagance. From gilded trimmings and hardware to ornate mirrors, moldings, and lighting fixtures, these opulent accents add depth and dimension to modern interiors.

4. Statement wall decor and sconces

Use your walls as a form of expression. Statement wall decor, mirrors, and light sconces have become defining features of Art Deco living rooms, adding layers of ambiance to spaces while paying homage to the bold aesthetics of the original movement.

‘Defined by opulence and a refined palette of elegant whites, sophisticated black, jewel tones and glamorous metallics, an art deco feel throughout a home can be created in a number of ways,' says Stefan Ormenisan, creative director and co-founder of MindTheGap. 'Weaving touches of luxurious materiality such as marble, lacquer or gilt designs with geometric or graphic elements throughout your interior, whether through gold accents such as door handles or mirrors which will instantly elevate your space, upholding the inherent luxury and glamour of the art deco era,' Stefan suggests.

Lighting plays a pivotal role in highlighting architectural features and accentuating focal points. Whether it's sleek, streamlined designs or ornate, sculptural pieces, sconces will enhance the ambiance and create a sense of gilded-age drama.

5. Stylized geometrics

Of course, it wouldn't be Art Deco without a shout-out to print and pattern. From bold, angular shapes to intricate geometrics, these motifs serve as a defining element that brings rhythm and structure to interiors.

For an updated take on the trend, designers are reimagining those iconic designs with a modern twist, experimenting with scale, color, and texture to create something that resonates with today's style.

'I adore the Art Deco style, both in its original form and its current resurgence,' says Gretchen Murdock of MODTAGE Design. 'Art Deco's timeless allure embraces clean lines, geometric elements, and luxurious materials like metal and marble. Modern interpretations include the use of stylized geometrics and warm metals as accents. The Art Deco style continues to inspire, shape, and redefine modern elegance and we are on board for this,' she adds.

Wall treatments like wallpaper ideas and art installations play a crucial role in setting the tone of a space. 'Very much considered the golden age of wallpaper, introducing an art deco atmosphere to your home offers a decadent and unique opportunity to use a bold wallpaper with geometric patterns and metallic details which will encapsulate the timeless style of the art deco era,' adds MindTheGap's Stefan.

If you've been wondering, is art deco really back on trend? Hopefully, this updated iteration of the style is just what you need to convince you to adopt a transitional design in your home, with a balancing act of old and new. Look to muted versions of the palette, experiment with geometrics, curved lines, and a little glamour, and most importantly: have fun. This is an interior style for the bold and the vivacious.

Art Deco design may have been at the height of its popularity in the early decades of the 20th century, but it still has plenty to offer to today’s interiors. A fabulous color palette, distinctive patterns and motifs, and sleek forms can all find a place in modern spaces.

Art Deco decor is luxurious, extravagant, and inspired by the advances of the age with its skyscrapers and ocean liners – and it can bring this optimistic spirit and opulent detail to a home that’s firmly in the 21st century, too.

We asked interior designers to share the history of Art Deco design, its elements, and the ways all lovers of glamor and style can introduce it, and this is what they told us.

Art deco design: the details

Art Deco is an opulent style that enjoyed immense popularity in its heyday and draws inspiration from the advances of its period. ‘The hallmarks of art deco are straight lines arranged into ornate patterns, such as zigzags or chevrons,’ explains Alex Bass, founder and CEO of Art Advisory and Interior Design Studio Salon 21. 

‘Art Deco uses a lot of rich, jewel-tone colors. It also includes materials that match this like lacquer, brass, upholstered fabric, and other metals. Furniture and lighting of art deco design is typically more ornate as well.’

And Art Deco living rooms, Art Deco bedrooms, and Art Deco kitchens can all be great choices for homes today. Discover the details of the look as well as its history here.

Origins of art deco design

Art Deco design originated in the last century. ‘Art deco, short for arts décoratifs in French, gained popularity in the United States during the 1920s and early 1930s, though it originated in Paris in the 1910s,’ says Aino Heinäsuo, head of design at Redecor. ‘Art Deco had its peak after the First World War, reflecting a collective yearning to transcend the recent trauma and embrace life with exuberance, indulging in luxury and extravagance. This surely was one of the most popular decorative styles in architecture, design, and visual arts in this period of art history.

‘It embodies the essence of modernity, drawing inspiration from the era’s technological and architectural advancements, including electric lights, towering skyscrapers, and majestic ocean liners. However, it declined in the late 1930s with the rise of mid-century modernism, which introduced new materials like stainless steel and plastic. Although it had international influence, World War II and the rise of functional modern architecture marked the end of Art Deco’s dominance.’

It has left a notable legacy, however. ‘What is amazing is how Art Deco was interpreted by many different countries,’ says Alex Bass. ‘Notably for us in NYC, we have a lot of stunning examples of art deco architecture and design still intact, such as the Chrysler building which is often cited as the epitome of art deco.’

Art deco motifs

Look out for typical Art Deco motifs. ‘The interior design style is characterized by its geometric and linear shapes, such as zigzags and triangular and trapezoidal shapes,’ says Aino Heinäsuo. ‘Sunburst or sunrise motifs were also common, often seen as golden sun-shaped mirrors on the walls. ‘Animal prints were extremely popular during this time, especially shark, zebra, and tiger skins,’ she adds.

Also characteristic, says Alex Bass are ‘florals, Egyptian-inspired motifs and other geometric shapes’, and she points out: ‘Low relief decoration is also a signature and fluting on fabric, etched in glass, mirror, etc.’

Elements of art deco design

As well as its distinctive motifs, other aspects typify Art Deco design. ‘Traditional art deco featured rich, jewel-tone color palettes, such as reds, blues, and greens often complemented by neutral shades like beiges, creams, or muted yellows,’ says Aino Heinäsuo. ‘The combination of black, white, and gold was frequently used to create a luxurious color scheme. The generous use of gold and steel in Art Deco furniture and accessories paid tribute to the wealth that new industries created at the time.’

Its lighting also characterizes the look. ‘Lighting fixtures can be metallic, gold, chrome, or glass and provide a modern, sleek, yet sophisticated look. An example of an art deco lighting fixture is a skyscraper lamp, which is long and often narrow just like a skyscraper,’ explains interior designer Jamie Mitri, founder of Moss Pure.

Pattern appears in many locations in the style. ‘Geometric patterns can be used anywhere in art deco, from the floor tiles, curtains, fireplaces, doors, chairs, wall art, and coffee tables to name a few,’ says Jamie. 

As for furniture? ‘During the Art Deco period, large, opulent furniture pieces were essential for infusing spaces with luxury,’ says Aino. ‘Elaborate sideboards and wardrobes were popular additions, alongside simpler furniture featuring sleek curves and smooth lines.’

Introduce art deco style

While most of us don’t want to have interiors worthy of a museum, Art Deco is back on trend, and suited to homes today. ‘Incorporating bold and luxurious styles is a great way to elevate your space,’ says Alex Bass. 

‘I love to shop vintage for pieces, specifically barware. Adding a jewel-tone velvet or patterned fabric to a chair is a great way to add a pop of this style into your home. I’d make sure that you’re using high-quality materials and avoid finding cheap alternatives as it will make your home feel gimmicky. A great way to avoid this is finding actual Art Deco pieces by thrifting or hunting for great, authentic vintage.’

‘Art Deco motifs integrate seamlessly into contemporary luxury design,’ agrees Aino Heinäsuo. ‘The style’s emphasis on clean lines and sleek forms provides a strong foundation for modern luxurious settings. Enhancing the aesthetic is easy with the addition of textiles, wallpapers, and decorative elements featuring Art Deco motifs.’

It can also be part of interiors with varied influences, Aino points out. ‘I’ve observed Art Deco elements being successfully incorporated into eclectic and vibrant designs, where a diverse range of styles and elements are seamlessly combined to craft a distinctive and visually engaging atmosphere,’ she says. ‘The key is to be bold – adding just one or two elements to the space might make it feel disjointed and result in an overall unbalanced look.’

FAQs

What is the difference between art deco and art nouveau?

Art nouveau predated Art Deco and had a different inspiration. ‘The main difference is the way lines are used,’ says Alex Bass, founder and CEO of Art Advisory and Interior Design Studio Salon 21. ‘Art nouveau is meant to embody nature, and hence the ironwork, painting, modeling, etc is very ornate and feminine. Art Deco almost feels like a stark contrast, yet the two styles complement each other quite well.’

Discovering your interior design style and realizing it in your home will add to your well-being by creating a home that feels like you. For lovers of luxury, art deco is a great inspiration and its opulence isn’t just suitable for large rooms. It can make a small room look expensive, too.

Art Deco is known for its all-out maximalist look, with interiors sporting bold colors and sleek, defining lines. And luckily for those who love a daring design, Art Deco decor is coming back in style. This 1920s-era statement look is getting a 21st-century refresh, and inspiring designers to adopt its defining features – and small, ornate details are only the beginning.

To get a better sense for why designers are loving Art Deco interiors at the moment, we spoke with several, who shared their favorite '20s features – plus how they're giving them a refresh in 2024. 

Here's what the experts had to say, and how you can bring the Art Deco trend home without dating your space.

Is Art Deco still in style?

Interior designers often turn to Art Deco, and for good reason. Its iconic look is comprised of geometric patterns and all things gold, with oversized artwork and intricate wallpaper. Interior designer Marie Flanigan says she loves Art Deco 'for its sleek lines and slightly curved silhouettes, along with the stylized symmetry of the period.'

'Further, the saturated color palette is beautiful to layer into a space while keeping the overall feel relatively neutral. I think the aesthetics of Art Deco are absolutely still applicable today across many design aesthetics – I love incorporating touches of Art Deco style when it suits the homeowner,' says Marie.

Art Deco's bold patterns and shapes have made it a distinctive, unmistakable style. Marie adds that the look's use of symmetry 'will always be paramount to how interiors look, feel and live.'

Why are people drawn to art deco design features?

Many elements of Art Deco design, from its noticeable use of color and pattern to its nostalgic look, resonate with homeowners and designers today. Katie Paulsen, director of interior design at Dallas-based Maestri Studio, says that Art Deco's 'bold pattern and strong color' have contributed to the style's recent re-emergence.

'In the early 2000s, spaces leaned heavily toward the minimalist style and everyone wanted white on white. Luckily, clients have learned to embrace unique spaces again and they want their homes to reflect more of who they are,' says Katie.

Now, she says, very few spaces are all-out neutral, and 'most are undoubtedly authentic.' People are embracing their personal design styles, and historic looks are creeping in once more. Art Deco's strong lines and shapes, 'never-before-seen cabinet front styles' and fireplace surrounds are personal favorites from these '20s-inspired spaces, Katie adds.

Jill Steinberg, co-founder and COO of Fine & Dandy Co., says that 'Art Deco never really went away,' calling it a 'classic design genre that works beautifully with both traditional and modern aesthetics.' A perfect match with this year's trending transitional style, Art Deco can easily be adapted for the modern day. By being thoughtful about which aspects of the aesthetic you introduce to your space, you can achieve a nostalgic feeling while still steering clear of a museum-like look.

'The style embodies a vintage feel with clean, elegant lines and we think of it as wonderfully glamorous, which is why it’s one of our favorites. I think what we’re seeing is that more people are starting to appreciate the versatility and elevated look this genre offers. It can instantly transform a space into something special and impactful,' says Jill.

Wallpaper ideas are one of the easiest ways you can enhance a room with an Art Deco refresh. In this vintage bathroom, Fine & Dandy Co.'s Tangier wallcovering brings a touch of glamor and class to the space, blending bold gold detailing with a moody color scheme. Other Art Deco-style features, like a stunning light fixture and defining architectural elements tie the space together for an overall sophisticated look.

'Art Deco style can be incorporated more boldly as wallcoverings – like Fine & Dandy Co.’s Paramour, Plume, and Tangier designs, to name a few – or through architectural details, but certain accessories, such as mirrors, wall art, lighting or other decorative objects, can also be very effective in capturing the look,' adds Jill.

'While Art Deco never truly went out of style, its popularity has certainly waxed and waned over the decades. However, in recent years, there has been a renewed appreciation for its timeless appeal and distinctive design elements,' says Niko Rasides, design director at Nicholas Anthony.

Now, Art Deco appeals to homeowners and designers for the 'sense of escapism and luxury' that's often associated with its 'emphasis on opulence and glamor,' he adds. With a stunning combination of statement architectural features and personality-driven design choices, the style is making a comeback during a maximalist decor renaissance. Your home is a statement, reflecting your design style, personality and lifestyle, and Art Deco resonates with many homeowners seeking a refresh in 2024.

'Whether it's through sleek metallic finishes, geometric patterns or sumptuous velvet upholstery, Art Deco adds a touch of old-world charm and sophistication to modern interiors, making it a perennial favorite among design enthusiasts,' says Niko.

How to keep Art Deco fresh for modern interiors

All-out Art Deco spaces can be overwhelming to the eye, especially in the context of 2024 design trends. But there are certainly considered ways to integrate Art Deco into your space without taking to a time machine. Marie Flanigan suggests paying special attention to the 'lines of furniture' when picking out pieces for a '20s-inspired space.

'Clean lines and curves, along with sleek silhouettes are typically very easy ways to incorporate Art Deco into different spaces,' she says.

Light fixtures in Art Deco style are also quite easy to track down, she adds. Ultimately, when decorating with vintage – whether it's lighting,  streamlined furniture, or other design elements – the key to mastering Art Deco for 2024 is keeping the overall style relatively simple. Marie says she tries to 'be very intentional about what goes into the room.'

'Look for ways to add geometric shapes, whether it’s a round mirror, square pavers or even sofas that create clean rectangles. I also love the pops of color that Art Deco interiors bring to a space and I typically gravitate toward the saturated neutral color palette that’s reminiscent of the time period. Look for inspiration images and see what pieces would translate well to your interior scheme,' Marie adds.

Some rooms capture the Art Deco allure with ease more than others. Lauren Kavanagh, art director at Hovia, says that 'dining rooms provide an excellent canvas for Art Deco style.'

'These spaces are often associated with hosting and entertaining, making them ideal for showcasing the opulence of Art Deco design. Items like decorative glassware, elegant bar carts, and statement lighting can all evoke the spirit of Art Deco, adding that touch of sophistication and flair,' she says.

Art Deco decor also looks stunning for bathroom ideas, especially in a powder room where you're looking to go bold with the design. Lauren adds that, 'decadent lighting reminiscent of the era and decorative tiles in geometric patterns and bold finishes are making styling an Art Deco bathroom easier than ever.'

Art Deco certainly isn't for everyone, but its timeless appeal and defining elements have made it a standout trend for 2024. Go bold with your home's color palette and experiment with patterns for a decidedly maximalist look that'll never truly go out of style.

An Art Deco living room has enduring appeal – when designed and executed well, this style offers a balance of sophisticated style and bold design. Hailing from the early 1900s, Art Deco is an era and style that revolved around jazz, and the design elements offer a nod to its origins.

Today's interpretation of Art Deco style takes cues from the aesthetic, blended with components of other interior design styles. Instead of transforming your home into a shrine to the 20s and 30s, it's about tastefully infusing your space with Art Deco decor. Think elegant decadence, rich jewel tones, and metallic accents.

Creating an Art Deco living room that feels balanced and stylish is no easy feat. To offer some inspiration, we've asked interior designers to share how they would introduce this vintage-inspired design style into a living room scheme.

 Art Deco living room ideas 

Art Deco style is more than gold accents and bold, geometric designs. A living room should balance style and comfort, so consider these ideas before infusing Art Deco design into your space. After all, you want your space to feel inspired, not an imitation of the olden days!

1. Adorn walls with decorative paneling

Most classic interior design styles have architectural details that feel core to the aesthetic. In an Art Deco living room, decorative wall paneling is a great way to introduce an err of decadence that feels on-trend.

'There are two ways to introduce Art Deco style into any room,' says Penny Drue Baird, principal at Dessins LLC. 'The first is architectural – you can add moldings, paneling, and other architectural features in woodwork or metal that incorporate the streamlined repetitive lines or zigzag features of the Art Deco period,' she explains.

Where a farmhouse or rustic style scheme might call for shiplap or wainscoting, Art Deco spaces require a design that feels more decorative. In this living room, textured rectangular wall paneling has been added on every wall and painted a deep teal shade. Paired with the amber accents, the living room scheme feels stylish and elegant while retaining a sense of coziness.

2. Padded furniture and upholstery

Art Deco design exudes a sense of luxury, so introducing furniture that looks high-end and feels comfortable is key. 'The second way to add Art Deco style would be in the soft furnishings themselves. Upholstery would feature channeled lines of padding, either vertical or horizontal or undulating concentric lines,' explains Penny Drue Baird.

'Case goods would be made from intricate inlays and decorative patterns, using precious materials, such as rare woods, galuchat (ornamented shagreen), fine bronze and brass metals, or mother of pearl, as examples. These pieces can be coffee tables, side tables, or cabinetry, such as cocktail bars or chests,' she adds.

3. Add geometric patterns

Geometric patterns and designs are something no Art Deco living room would be complete without. From wallpaper ideas and paneling to rugs and throw pillows, try to introduce a geometric design somewhere in the space as a nod to the design style.

'Introducing Art Deco into a living room involves incorporating geometric patterns through rugs or wallpapers, using sleek furniture with mirrored or lacquered finishes, and adding metallic accents like brass or chrome,' explains Juliette Thomas, director at Juliettes Interiors. 

'Bold colors like black, white, and gold can be utilized, along with statement lighting fixtures and decorative accessories to evoke the era's glamour,' she adds. In this living room, a color palette of black, gold, and white has been used throughout, while geometric patterns have been added via the feature wall paneling and area rug.

4. Introduce art and sculptural decor

Although geometric patterns might be the first design element you think of when it comes to Art Deco design, there are other decorative details that offer a nod to the aesthetic. 

'We like to incorporate patterned fabrics and rugs that have these hallmarks to style an Art Deco living room,' explains interior designer Jessica Lagrange, but adds that this is not the only way she introduces Art Deco style to a living room.

'Art and sculpture pieces are another way we like to incorporate the Art Deco element in a living room. With a contemporary approach to a traditional design, this adds an element to the space that truly stands the test of time,' says Jessica. 

5. Opt for soft lighting

Living room lighting plays an important role in any style of space – in an Art Deco living room, lean towards softer lighting. Include brass sconces that cast the light down the walls, and ceiling lights that highlight the architectural details in a room.

'Lighting is key,' says Eddie Maestri, principal architect and creative director at Maestri Studio. 'The soft lit ceiling coves of Art Deco style are definitely back. Symmetry is key, as is statement lighting with period nods,' he adds.

In this Art Deco living room, symmetry has been introduced with the two bookcases, while soft downlighting in each shelf offers an ambient glow that feels core to Art Deco style.

6. Look for furniture with a curved profile

Living room designs rely on the furniture in them – from sofas and accent chairs to coffee tables and sideboards, they all play a big part when creating a successful scheme. As such, the furniture you introduce to an Art Deco living room can make all the difference to the overall aesthetic.

'As a trend centered around comfort, tactility, and exuberance, living rooms are the perfect space in the home to apply the Art Deco design style, and choosing the correct furniture pieces is key,' says interior designer Molly Woodward-Moor.

'With soft furnishings, look for curved shapes and stylized pieces in softer velvet-like materials and a pop of color. A sofa or accent chair in a rich ochre yellow, moss green or rust red creates a focal statement that exudes confidence. Avoid angular designs in rigid materials or leather finishes, that can feel cold, clinical, and uninviting,' she explains.

7. Decorate with green hues

Art Deco style has a distinct color palette. Glamor and decadence are at its core, so decorate with jewel tones and deeper hues for a dramatic, yet elevated finish. 'Art Deco style is a sleek, but glamorous design style that often includes bold lines, intricate geometric patterns, high-gloss finishes, and saturated colors,' says Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore.

'For a living room, consider bringing in lush green paint colors, like Boreal Forest AF-480 or Vintage Vogue 462, paired with warm metallic accents to play into the decadence of Art Deco design. For a subtle nod, consider painting built-ins or furniture in these handsome hues providing the perfect backdrop for gold and brass accessories. To fully embrace the opulence of this design style, use these colors on all four walls for maximum glam,' she adds.

8. Blend vintage charm with opulent style

It will probably come as no surprise that a successful Art Deco living room is one that blends vintage pieces with those more opulent, decorative elements. This helps to prevent a scheme from feeling too new and shiny while offering a nod to the style's roots.

'Art Deco interior is all about having a touch of glamour alongside a vintage charm,' says Saffron Harper-Ward, interior designer at Knight Frank Interiors. 'Ways to include this style into your home include furniture with bold, geometric shapes and clean lines – polished surfaces, metal accents and luxurious upholstery in rich colors or patterns is a good starting point,' she adds. 

Mixing different finishes and pairing contrasting tones can add the bold elegance this design style is renowned for – a dark color on the wall paired with shiny brass lighting or pairing light and moody hues is a great place to start. 'Adding dramatic lighting fixtures like chandeliers or sconces with geometric shapes and metal finishes to make a statement as well as painting the walls in deep, rich colors or opt for wallpaper with Art Deco patterns,' suggests Saffron.

When designing an Art Deco living room, prioritize creating a balance between a comfortable, cozy space and a sense of opulence and glamor. Opt for jewel tones and decorative paneling, curved silhouettes, and soft lighting. It's all about highlighting architectural details and designing a scheme that feels elegant and cohesive. Don't go overboard on the metallic pieces and introduce elements of vintage style – it's not Art Deco if you don't celebrate its roots.

Art Deco kitchens were not on our bingo card for 2024. But, just as era-defining trends go around, they come back round to surprise us once more.

Fresh off the back of a 2010s-induced grey, minimalist obsession, it feels only right that in contrast, we're craving a touch of luxury to inspire our kitchen ideas in 2024. With searches up on both Pinterest and Google, it's safe to say Art Deco decor has made a comeback in a big way, bringing with it bold geometric shapes, luxurious materials, and unmistakable glamour.

So what's the way to do Art Deco in a modern kitchen? Picture sleek lines, gleaming metallics, and more muted color palettes than the traditional. Whether you’re looking to add a few Art Deco-inspired pieces to your existing kitchen decor or want to go bold with an entirely new look, we've sat down with the experts to find out their favorite ways to add a touch of roaring twenties to the heart of your home.

5 Ways To Bring A Touch Of Art Deco Into Your Kitchen

If you're drawn to geometric patterns, gleaming metallics, and rich tones, why not consider turning your kitchen into an entertaining hub reminiscent of the Gatsby-era? Think marble countertops, plenty of stainless steel, and curved lines that all play harmoniously in a contemporary space.

Characterized by streamlined, geometric shapes, Art Deco, which originated in the 1902s epitomizes glamour, luxury, and sophistication. But is it really going to be such a big kitchen trend in 2024?

'I believe that mid-century revival of recent years is going to be overtaken by Art Deco in a big way in 2024,' says interior designer Hollie Bowden who designed the glossy yellow kitchen seen above. 'It is known for a number of materials that are popular at the moment, such as glass and stainless steel – and adding some deco pieces to that mix makes these materials feel fresh. The glossy elements of this kitchen, like the ceiling and stainless steel, bring vitality to the space while maintaining a calm and serene,' she explains.

When it comes to Art Deco, less is definitely more. So start with the basics, and follow these 5 inspiring ways to inject a little 1920-30s glamour into your kitchen.

1. Create a sense of movement with curved lines

Sweeping curved lines and angular, geometric shapes defined the Art Deco movement. But in 2024, an era that prioritizes comfort and warmth at home, it's those soft, fluid moments that will help take your kitchen from functional to inviting.

Take this sophisticated yet cozy dining nook in a kitchen by Parisian designer Fabrice Juan. The space doesn't scream 'Art Deco' but thanks to the heavy ceiling molding, curved furnishings, and soft color palette, the overall vibe suddenly feels retro and nostalgic. The diagonal striped floor nods to the graphic nature of the trend with a pared-back subtlety. It's these juxtapositions that create visually striking spaces.

'To recreate this aesthetic in your own kitchen, consider incorporating light tones for cabinetry and flooring to evoke a sense of warmth and authenticity,' advises Fabrice. 'Pair these with accent flooring featuring intricate patterns or textures to add visual interest and depth. Introduce mirrored cabinets strategically to maximize natural light and create a sense of spaciousness. Finally, select materials such as ceramics, plaster, marble, and graphic fabrics with bold patterns to infuse the space with character and charm.'

Now, one curved corner won't be enough to instill that 1920s feeling so ensure all your lines are slightly rounded. Incorporating rounded countertops, arched doorways on cabinetry or soft edges on hardware will all add a touch of sophistication to the space. Plus, they're incredibly practical. Curved lines can enhance the flow of movement within the kitchen, creating a more open environment for daily tasks.

2. Introduce geometric patterns and prints

Now it wouldn't be Art Deco without mentioning geometrics. Art Deco's love affair with geometry is a celebration of boldness and precision. Whether you want a sleek and modern look or something more vintage-inspired, geometrics can be included in your backsplash through tiles or even wallpaper, accessories, or via your kitchen floors.

'Art Deco’s timeless allure embraces clean lines, geometric elements, and luxurious materials such as metal & marble,' says Gretchen Murdock of MODTAGE Design, who designed the kitchen seen above. 'Modern interpretations include using stylized geometric tiles and warm metals like copper.'

'Designing an art deco kitchen does not always require a bold use of dark colors or daring wallpaper to create the timeless luxury feel of an art deco kitchen,' says Felix Milns, founder of HUX London. 'Instead, it can be created through selecting subtle decorative finishes such as gold metallic accents or using geometric tiles for a splashback that still creates an impactful art deco vibe, without a major upheaval of your existing kitchen design.'

If you prefer a more subtle take on the style, small details will still make a big difference to the overall feel. Perhaps bold print feels too much, so try working with geometric shapes instead and consider a plain hexagonal tile or angular bar stools for a nuanced take on the design.

3. Include metallics - the shinier the better

In an Art Deco kitchens, metallic accents are key. From the polished stainless steel kitchen trend that's gaining momentum in 2024 to glitzy gold, incorporating shiny metals into your scheme through hardware, lighting, and even furniture is the way to make this feel contemporary.

'A handful of vibrant, eye-catching statement pieces is all it takes to design a space that feels truly art deco,' suggests Mara Rypacek Miller, managing director and founder of Industville. 'Consider using gold, brass, and chrome accents and repeating the use of these materials throughout the room to create cohesion in the space.'

'Industrial style lights are a great way to instill a sense of glamour in a kitchen. The combination of metals and glass paired with a rich color palette on the walls and cabinetry will evoke a feeling of 20th-century luxury in the space,' adds Mara.

In the spirit of the maximalist approach, these reflective surfaces will enhance the play of light, creating an illusion of spaciousness. This is particularly effective in small

kitchens, where every design element contributes to the perception of grandeur.

4. Stick to a rich palette and dark wood tones

A rich palette and dark wood tones embody opulence. Choosing a sumptuous kitchen color palette will help to lay the foundations for a lavish kitchen design. Just think of all the speakeasies and underground bars that appeared during the Art Deco movement, and apply that same thinking to your own space.

'Art Deco is all about luxury materials and craftsmanship. Consider the type of materials you want to use – think marbles, walnut and only the plushest of fabrics - which should be high-end and left in their natural state, in order to let their beauty be part of the design,' advises Richard Davonport, managing director at Davonport Kitchens.

'In this Art Deco kitchen, Burr walnut veneer and marble has been used to create a kitchen island that resembles a piece of art,' he continues. 'The veneer is book-matched to create a symmetrical pattern, showcasing the natural beauty of the wood grain. The cabinet is supported by a bespoke metal frame base in a brass finish, reminiscent of the Art Deco period.'

Balance jewel tones with more muted and contemporary shades like buttery yellow and soft blues with warm, dark wood tones. Consider these rich hues for cabinets, walls, or your decor – less is always more. The result is a kitchen that feels like a jewel box, inviting and enveloping.

5. Add glamour with molding and paneling

There's that famous saying that before you leave the house, you ought to take off one accessory or piece of jewelry in order to avoid looking "too much". Well, here the opposite couldn't be more true.

Molding and decorative detailing like paneling, trims, and other adornments could be the defining factor that transforms a standard kitchen into one that speaks the language of a bygone era. Whether its via a statement ceiling, crown molding, ornate baseboards, or brass trims added to your cabinet fronts, consider accessorizing your kitchen. It's that attention to detail that feels so at home with the Art Deco style.

'One way in which art deco is coming back into style is through the return to paneling throughout the home,' agrees HUX's Felix Milns. 'Within a kitchen, paneling can be introduced as a nod to the inherent glamour of the art deco era. Adding paneling to cabinets, or indeed even to the ceiling, is an instant way to elevate a space and create an art deco feel.'

A fairly divisive design style, Art Deco is one that previously seemed a bit "too much". But thanks to 2024's interior design sensibilities, a little modern functionality, and some rather gorgeous schemes created by interior designers, this era finally feels like one we can get behind. Whether you're a seasoned design enthusiast or a novice seeking a touch of glamour, may your Art Deco-inspired kitchen become a truly timeless space, filled with glitz, glamour, and sophistication.

Designing an Art Deco bedroom requires a balance of the elegance and glamor the design style is renowned for, and introducing cozy elements that are core to any bedroom scheme. 

A bedroom should feel relaxing and inviting, and many of the design elements of Art Deco cater to this perfectly. From the jewel-toned color palette that celebrates rich, luxurious shades to the cozy velvet upholstery and Art Deco decor, there are a number of cues that can be taken from the style and infused into interiors.

Whether you're working with a blank canvas or a space that needs to balance more than one interior design style, these Art Deco bedroom ideas are sure to add a refreshing sense of luxury feel to your scheme.

 7 on-trend Art Deco bedroom ideas

Art Deco style doesn't mean covering your bedroom in gold and adding mirrored furniture in every corner. The right fabrics, colors and decorative elements can take your bedroom from dreary to decedent in no time. Here, interior designers share their ideas on creating a stylish Art Deco bedroom.

1. Create a feature wall

A blend of design elements comes into play in an Art Deco bedroom. It's important to keep an err of opulence to the room, but a bedroom also needs to feel cozy and warm, so choose an upholstered headboard with a curved profile. 'Curves in bed shape design are big right now, and an easy way to kick off art deco style in a bedroom,' says Eddie Maestri, principal architect and creative director at Maestri Studio.   

As well as the cozy elements, adding warmth and interest to the walls will add an aesthetic detail, while also contributing to a cocooning feel around the bed. 'Add a bedroom accent wall to bring in some architectural texture and interest, simple streamlined bedding, and some sculptural lighting elements. Our Hill House primary bedroom is a good example,' adds Eddie.

2. Add a geometric headboard and mirrored nightstands

Geometric designs are core to Art Deco design, and a statement headboard is an eye-catching way to introduce it. 'Transform a bedroom with Art Deco flair by selecting a statement headboard with geometric patterns or luxe velvet upholstery,' recommends Juliette Thomas, director at Juliettes Interiors.

In this scheme, the headboard is complimented by other luxurious furniture and decor items, adding a sense of decadence to the scheme. 'Introduce mirrored nightstands and glamorous lighting fixtures for a touch of elegance. Incorporate rich textiles like silk or satin for bedding and curtains, and adorn with metallic accents and bold, symmetrical artwork,' adds Juliette.

3. Add Art Deco light fixtures

Bedroom lighting plays a big part in any scheme. To lean into Art Deco style, introduce fixtures that feel vintage, glamorous, or with geometric forms to embrace the designs of the era.

'One way we like to introduce Art Deco style into a bedroom scheme is by the addition of light fixtures reminiscent of Art Deco style,' says Jessica Lagrange, of Jessica Lagrange Interiors. 'We like to blend this style with the addition of contemporary forms and elements that mix well Art Deco style features. We highlight this blend by the mix of new and contemporary with vintage pieces,' she adds.

'We suggest choosing lighting fixtures that make a statement, such as chandeliers or wall sconces with Art Deco-inspired motifs like geometric shapes, polished metals and frosted glass shades,' suggests Guillaume Coutheillas, founder and creative director of frenchCALIFORNIA.

4. Decorate with luxurious fabrics

Fabrics play a big role in a bedroom scheme. Cottons and linens feel light and airy, ideal for coastal or California casual scheme. In Art Deco bedrooms, it's about adding a sense of luxury and comfort, so embrace velvets in rich, moody hues.

'For an Art Deco bedroom, you want a timeless, sophisticated design for rest and relaxation. Like many bedrooms, your bed can be the feature of the room with a geometric headboard. This can be upholstered in a luxurious, emerald or navy velvet,' says Saffron Harper-Ward, interior designer at Knight Frank Interiors.

'Look for bedside tables with ornate details like mirrored surfaces and intricate patterns and add statement lighting fixtures, such as a sculptural chandelier or geometric bedside lamps for a touch of glamour and warmth. For smaller Art Deco touches, you can add decorative items like clocks, vases or sculptures that echo the art deco emphasis on modernity and elegance,' she adds.

5. Don't be afraid to mix interior design styles

In today's home, an Art Deco bedroom scheme looks best when paired with elements of other interior design styles. In this bedroom design, elements of Art Deco style have been introduced, such as the padded headboard, gold hardware and velvet upholstery.

'For the bedroom, we genuinely combined our clients' styles,' says Sallie Lord of GreyHunt Interiors. 'We focused on adding pieces that would create a modern Art Deco feel, like the mixed-material nightstands with curved edges and a media cabinet with curved oval designs with crystal knots to bring in glamour,' she adds.

6. Introduce geometric and gold accents

The first things that come to mind when you think of Art Deco design are probably geometric patterns and gold details. These design elements work wonders in a bedroom scheme, as demonstrated in this design by Laura Fox Interior Design.

'This home is a modern take on Art Deco featuring sharp, repeating lines, rich marble, and luxury velvets – opulence for the more modern generation,' explains Laura. 'This project has a gorgeous, Art Deco-inspired bedroom with a geometric embroidered pillow and luxe gold nightstand,' she adds.

7. Decorate with rich, jewel tones

Decorating with jewel tones adds a luxurious touch to an Art Deco scheme – bedrooms are the perfect space for adding darker hues as they create a cozier atmosphere. 'For an Art Deco bedroom, choose a color scheme that includes rich, jewel tones such as emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red, or deep purple. These colors add a sense of luxury and drama to the bedroom that evoke the Art Deco glamor,' says Guillaume Coutheillas.

Deep reds, moody blues and emerald green tones all lean into the Art Deco aesthetic and add a richness to a scheme. 'Look to statement-making hues, like Wenge AF-180, Amazon Green 2136-60 and Onyx 2133-10, to bring an elegant dose of drama to your bedroom. These enveloping hues make for a cozy but sophisticated sanctuary, perfect for starting and ending your day,' suggests Arianna Barone, color marketing manager at Benjamin Moore. 

Cohesion between coziness and luxury are integral to an Art Deco bedroom scheme. A jewel-toned color palette, luxurious velvet upholstery and statement headboards are key to designing a space that captures the essence of Art Deco style. Opt for subtle gold additions and introduce geometric patterns that aren't overwhelming – a bedroom should be calming and relaxing, so keep this in mind when decorating your space.

As February draws to a close, spring is most definitely in the air, and with March (the official start of spring) just around the corner, it does warrant asking if is it time to put away the heavy drapes and cozy throws and start decorating for spring. I certainly feel ready to be seeing lighter, more uplifting colors and spring-inspired prints.

Spring decor is best brought in slowly and steadily. You don't want to take your home from the depths of winter straight to mid-summer in one weekend, but rather make small but consistent changes as the weather changes. Give it a few weeks, and you'll notice that your whole home feels fresh and lifted as does the weather, without having to put in lots of time or effort. 

But when should you start making those changes and what changes should you be making? We asked interior designers when they start decorating for spring (spoiler: right now) and what small but impactful changes to make to your home decor. 

When should you start decorating for spring?

How to decorate your home for spring and when it should be done, will slightly come down to the climate of where you live, plus your personal tastes and style. Spring is my season for example, and I like my home to feel fresh and like there's been a shift as soon as the Holiday decs come down. But if you enjoy cozy decor, or the weather means layers and heavy fabrics are a must for the first few months of the year then decorating for spring might come later. Essentially, there are no hard rules about when to decorate your home for the change in seasons, do so when feels right for your space.

With that in mind, designer Bethany Adams suggests ' I usually wait until after Valentine's day to start shifting my decor towards spring. I'll start by forcing bulbs indoors – this can take a month or so – and placing them in lovely shallow planters covered in bright green moss. Just that little hit of green is enough to perk up a room, but once the bulbs start coming up, it actually feels like spring indoors!  

'About this time is when it's safe to put away the heavier blankets – the faux fur, the velvet, the cashmere, which remind one of winter,' she continues. 'Pussywillow branches are usually out early, and these last a long time so I'll grab a bunch from the grocery store and put them in a statement vase on the mantle. I also start swapping out my tropical plants for the evergreens that take their place in my indoor planters in winter.  All of these little things add up to a lovely progression towards spring, well before the trees bud outside.'

I love the idea of looking to nature as a way of knowing when to start decorating for spring. Bringing in greenery is such a lovely and easy way to give your rooms just a hint of that change in season. This is the perfect thing to do right now to make your home feel just slightly more spring-like. Tulips in a vase, daffodils, even branches of blossom will also bring in those vivid colors that we associate with early spring and are so desperate to see after winter. 

'To amplify the springtime ambiance, incorporate changing floral arrangements –whether faux or real – and introduce the delicate beauty of spring branches adorned with buds, my personal favorite,' explains Jennifer Davis. 'Fresh flowers not only bring a burst of color but also infuse your space with delightful fragrances.'

'Elevate the ambiance by transitioning from candles with earthy scents to ones that offer brighter, fresher fragrances. Nature-inspired elements can be further integrated by introducing botanical prints into your decor through artwork, or throw pillows. These additions will create a seamless connection with the outdoors, evoking the essence of spring within your home.' 

Switching out scents is something I do pretty much straight after Christmas. It's something so small but really changes the feel of a home without having to make any premature decor switches. Gone are the heavy baking scented candles and instead I burn fresher, more light floral or citrus scents. 

Designer Kathy Kuo agrees that the start of March is the ideal time to start decorating your home for spring. 'The first official day of spring is March 20, so I like to start integrating springy elements into my home decor starting at the beginning of March so by the end of the month I'm fully transitioned to the new season.'

'Spring decor can take many forms depending on what your overall interior design style is. I love to bring out vases in lighter colors and fill them with seasonal blooms and also swap out my cozy winter throw blankets for lighter weight cotton ones, and swap my velvet and hair-on-hide decorative pillows for linen ones.'

'Typically, the best time to start decorating for spring is as soon as the snow starts melting and temperatures begin to rise, signaling the transition from winter to spring. Start by shedding the weight of winter fabrics like velvets and wool in somber tones, and welcome the season with lighter, brighter hues such as pastels, soft greens, and sunny yellows. Opt for airier materials like cotton and linen to replace heavy winter fabrics,' agrees Jennifer.

Making these more impactful switches is something I do over the weekends of very early spring. I have been caught out before changing bedding and drapes out too early as we all know how many false springs there can be in March and April. So I start with throw pillows and the throws on my couch and bed. Changing these for more spring-like colors and prints like florals and gingham give my living room and bedroom a change but the warmth is still kept in until the weather makes up its mind. 

'The first step in preparing for spring is editing the weight of fall and winter by swapping out plush throws and pillows with those of light-weight linens and cashmere,' explains designer Kara Childress. 'My favorite part about a spring home is using fresh branches and greenery throughout, such as cherry blossoms, French lilac, forsythia, and dogwood.'

'Extend this refreshing transformation to your throw blankets, swapping out furry and woolen throws for gauzy fabrics that exude lightness,' continues Jennifer Davis. 'Infuse the spirit of spring into every corner of your home with strategically placed elements in the form of throw pillows, blankets, curtains, and small decorative items like vases or candles.'

When you choose to decorate your home for spring is a personal choice. I have been doing it since New Year's Day. But the general consensus seems that from the end of February onwards you should start making (weather-appropriate) switches in your home. Don't change everything out in one go, start with smaller things like the scent, and let what's going on out in nature dictate what's going on in your home – bring in spring flowers and foliage as the perfect starting point and then slowly switch out fabrics, bedding and throws as the season progresses. 

If you need a break from all of the holiday decor but want some decorative hosting pieces that still feel seasonal with a whimsical touch, the new Catherine Martin for Anthropologie collection is a must-shop. This collaboration features festive pieces for cocktail party hosting, inspired by the Art Deco style of the 1920s, and it dropped just in time for New Year’s. Designed with celestial stars, stunning swans, and gilded glass, the collection has an antique feel with a fresh, modern spin. 

The Catherine Martin for Anthropologie collection features a range of serving ware, including cocktail glasses, serving platters and boards, dessert plates, and decorative pieces (like a gorgeous star-studded throw pillow and a luxe marble tic-tac-toe game). The collection also features some adorable teaware, such as a cup and saucer set, a sugar pot, and a creamer. 

While it feels impossible to choose favorites - they’re all so gorgeous - there are several items we’ve already added to our carts. 

Catherine Martin Anthropologie collection

However, while I love these, this is far from the only Christmas decor to buy. It's not even the only choice at Anthropologie. I covered Anthropologie's early Christmas decor, and then covered the best drops when even more Anthropologie Christmas decor came out. That's to say nothing of the other excellent Christmas decor out there. We've also taken a look at the best of Shea McGee's Christmas dec

It is perhaps no secret that Art Deco interiors have had a modern revival in recent years, but in his Toronto mansion, Drake has taken this aesthetic to new heights. With the help of Canadian designer Ferris Rafauli, the singer set the standard for the Modern Art Deco trend through spaces that ooze 'high luxury,' and this begins with the living room. 

Much like the rest of his home (named 'The Embassy' by Drake), the living room exhibits overwhelming grandeur, including Tuscan leather, tobacco leaf, and a cocooning dark color scheme. However, while this rich palette is something to note, it is the gold accents that serve as the ultimate nod to the Modern Art Deco style. 

Decorating with gold comes with inevitable caution, as this hue is so luxurious that it's important to use it in excess. Even Drake's home, one of the most opulent spaces we've ever seen, uses gold sparingly – and designers say it's right on trend.

'Gold is always going to be a popular accent color for a variety of interior design styles, and the recent trend for gold decor proves how versatile this metallic is,' comments designer Kathy Kuo. 

'When I think of 70s gold, I think of really laidback luxury – it's mellow and whimsical but also very chic and upscale. My advice for bringing this trend into your home would be to embrace 70s gold as a winking contrast or accent rather than the dominant decor element. Too much can make your home look like a set piece, but the right amount is both fun and flashy.'

Designer Mariya Snisar agrees. She, too, emphasizes that we should not over-indulge in gold but should, instead, look to include 'a few rich gold accent decor pieces' that can 'create this alluring aesthetic' without overpowering our space. 

'To ensure the gold decor items don't look gaudy or out of place, you’ll want to consider their size, texture, and position in the room,' she says. 'Smaller gold decor accessories can be grouped close to each other, while bigger pieces like floor lamps or tables can usually stand alone.'

In Drake's home, Ferris Rafauli paired the gold pockets with deep hues: black marble and glossy dark brown, but in more pared-back homes, this color complements warm hues, such as those found in wood paneling and open brick walls. 'Their textured surfaces contrast well with gold’s smooth, lustrous finish,' Mariya comments.

'Gold also looks wonderful when paired with cooler colors like teal and Parisian blue, which cause gold to stand out more.' Gold-hued accessories offer a similar, luxe aesthetic and pair equally well with these surrounding tones. We're starting with these picks below.

Finding the perfect winter color trends for your home relies on two fundamental elements. Firstly, select a color that you and your family will love throughout the entire season. Secondly, source a color that will keep you warm and cozy during the dark, cold months. This may sound easy or complicated depending on your color expertise, but worry not, our experts are on hand to ensure your room color ideas are perfectly on point come winter.

Understanding color trends lies at the root of all interior design decisions, and exploring the latest colors, along with consulting the color wheel, basic color theory, and recent paint trends, will ensure that you choose the perfect winter palette for your space.

2023 winter color trends are both cosseting and calm, impactful yet soothing, and celebrate both comforting neutrals and daring brights, so there is something for everyone, no matter your style.

1. Teal

A welcome choice for winter, teal is having a moment in the spotlight. The uplifting yet serene teal is an interesting contradiction, blurring the boundaries between blue and green, and equally fun and sophisticated when added to an interior scheme come winter. 

Used for centuries, it is currently riding a renaissance, according to Charlotte Cosby, head of creative at Farrow & Ball. ‘Teal is a very balanced, versatile shade that can be used to create a subtle or dramatic space, as it shifts between blue and green in varying levels of light. Its green undertone brings a sense of calm and cohesion to a room, perfect for spaces where many people gather.' 

But why does teal uplift and calm in equal measure? Tobias Lewis, head of brand at Valspar, has a theory that links to the shades found in the natural world and the recent global pandemic. ‘Colors that have a biophilic nature, such as blue and green, evoke a stress-relieving and mood-boosting atmosphere. This makes teal – a deep, cyan-green shade – ideal for rooms to entertain in, including the living or dining room.'

It is a wonderful choice for a room that can take both cool and warm undertones, making it perfect for the colder seasons.

2. Ochre

Ochre might seem like an unseal choice for winter, but unlike its brighter cousin yellow, an earthy golden ochre is a shade that shines, but it also creates rooms that are rich and enveloping – it's a hue that's like a warm embrace in winter.

‘Ochre is a color that evokes happiness and provides a sense of positivity,' says Andy Greenall, head of design, at Paint & Paper Library. 'While it is perfect for areas of the home where there is much activity and socializing, ochre can also add energy and vitality to a bedroom, especially a children's bedroom.’

'It’s easier to incorporate this shade into a scheme if you’re slightly put off by bright yellow paint in your home and it is particularly effective in darker, moodier spaces as it creates a feeling of seasonal warmth,' explains Sarah Brown, founder, of Sarah Brown Interiors.

3. Black and white

Far from binary, the aesthetic associations of black-and-white room ideas for winter are rich and varied. Symbolizing balance and equilibrium, the pairing can also be used to isolate, capture attention and confuse; they are artists’ fundamental tools for capturing volume and form, and for architects to create rhythm and order. 

Within interiors, checkerboard floors of black and white marble have been found to pave grand villas of ancient Rome, but fast forward to the 20th century and the palette signifies purity in Modernist design. 

During the winter months, a simple glance out of the window can provide rich inspiration for two-tone decorating; from the silhouettes of leafless branches to the long shadows from the low winter sun. 

For a dramatic look, go high contrast with pure black and white; alternatively, for a softer take on monochrome, layer up a myriad of grays. Whatever your temperament, both options make a great base for colorful furniture and collectibles. As for complementary hues, anything goes, but a shade such as Limitless, Glidden's 2024 color of the year, will help bring life and warmth.

4. Gold

Metallic gold is a wonderful way to add the Midas touch to your home for winter. Use this lustrous hue to create rooms that radiate warmth and exude luxury, unlike any other color. 

From subtle flecks of gold detailing to full-on gold walls and ceilings, decorating with gold brings radiance and subtle shine to every surface it touches. Along with its mood-enhancing qualities, gold is a highly versatile color that can be paired with many other shades to make a home look expensive and rich.

‘Sophisticated gold brings in a touch of optimism to a room, perfect for bringing a sense of positivity into the home,’ says Justyna Korczynska, senior designer at Crown. ‘The color creates a sense of calm with a feeling of restfulness and well-being.’ 

Similar to ochre, gold makes a wonderful accent color too. 'Gold is an invitation to dream and to travel,' says Jamie Beriestain, founder, of Jaime Beriestain Studio. 'I don’t use it a lot, but sometimes it can fill a space with light.'

Hugely diverse decorating with gold can be used to create spaces that are stimulating and energizing, fun or formal, to cozy and welcoming.

5. Forest green

Calming, creative, and with strong links to nature, dramatic dark green is a versatile color that is perfect for those cold, winter nights.

The majesty of ancient forests has long inspired interior design. Whether the grandeur of an oak tree or the enchanting shape of an acanthus leaf, rich, velvety greens offer homes a nurturing connection to nature that is often lost in the winter. 

There are many varieties of deep green. ‘It can have a warm, yellow undertone or a cool, blue hue,’ explains Justyna Korczynska, senior designer at Crown Paints. ‘As a color family, deep green is incredibly versatile and can be paired with so many shades and materials that will bring out either its warm or cool tone. Deep green really comes to life with plenty of natural light, so it suits south-facing rooms best. It can, however, work in a dark, narrow space too, when paired with terracotta shades and mid-tone wood to bring in warmth,’ she adds. 

‘I love decorating with green because it is very calming,’ says interior designer Sarah Vanrenen. ‘I also love using patterned wallpaper in green. I don’t think space is a barrier to going bold – don’t be put off by using strong colors and patterns in even the smallest spaces and use it on all four walls. The effect is dramatic and green works with so many other incredible colors, too.’

For the perfect winter color scheme, be inspired by the colors and textures of the forest.

6. Navy blue

Used in decorating for centuries, serene dark blues are enduringly popular, harmonizing with many hues for gloriously diverse results.

The depth of pigment of darker blues means that they offer an emotional content that can be as nurturing or soothing as any green, particularly when you decorate a room floor-to-ceiling in a dark, velvety blue. For some homeowners, the idea of dark colors might feel foreboding, but for others, it is the dark ‘night’ of a shade that offers serenity in a winter room scheme.

Navy blue is a soulful shade. For a relaxing retreat, wrap a room in a cocooning deep dark indigo. Leave no surface untouched, painting paneling, fireplace surrounds, architraves and doors with the same color for a moody atmosphere. Style with highlights of antique furniture, and gilded wall lights for casting a subtle glow. Before making your final paint choice, swatch a room with samples to analyze how they work with the light in your room.

FAQs

After Chip and Joanna Gaines unveiled a renovated castle in their hometown, Waco, Texas, last November, we assumed the power couple had reached their career highlight. Then, they purchased Hotel 1928.

The building, which formerly belonged to the Karem Shriners, rose above the city's downtown in, you guessed it, 1928 – and since then, it has served as a social melting point. 

'For nearly a century, the building on the corner of Washington Avenue and N. 7th Street has been a place where people gather to rest and relax, find inspiration, and celebrate,' the team shares. It was the heritage that served as the ultimate inspiration point for the design duo. 

Designed in the style of an early twentieth-century Moorish Revival lodge, the 50,000-square-foot structure was a natural attraction to Joanna, who first established her signature style on HGTV's Fixer Upper. In the last decade, she has become synonymous with her earthy twist on the modern farmhouse style – a unique aesthetic that is evident in all her work, including this hotel.

However, in the case of this project, it comes with a natural Art Deco influence. 

From the pendant lighting and gold finishes, it's clear that Chip and Joanna designed with the '20s in mind, but they were also able to bring some authentic features, including a beautiful terrazzo floor, back to life. 

Some of Joanna's favorite elements she shares are the 'high gloss Venetian plaster, green leather banquettes, double staircase in the library, and custom mosaic tiles.'

'For us, this project represents everything we are most passionate about — hospitality, restoration, and home,' Chip and Joanna add. 'We’ve always been firm believers in the value of home, as a place but also as a feeling. Our dream for this hotel is that it would serve as an extension of home to every guest who comes to stay.'

While the Magnolia designers are celebrated for their home renovation skills, Hotel 1928 was an entirely new experience, both in its scale and the type of spaces Chip and Joanna found themselves renovating. 

The structure spans three stories, almost 60,000 square feet, and comprises three restaurants and bars and a ballroom for good measure. 

'When you think about a 50,000 square foot remodel, this is the big leagues,' Chip says in the Fixer Upper: The Hotel trailer. 'This is what you dream about, and I think Jo and I are out of our element to some extent, but we're up for the challenge.'

As hinted in the trailer, Fixer Upper: The Hotel, the full story behind this renovation, will premiere on Magnolia Network on November 8. We've already marked our calendars.

It's officially cozy season, making it the perfect time of year to ensure your home is as warm as possible for the months ahead. While there are many ways to elevate your home decor for fall, decorating with rugs is arguably one of the easiest ways to increase the warmth of any room in the home, from the dining room to the bedroom. 

We're turning to interior brand Ruggable, who has recently launched a capsule collection of rugs in collaboration with artist and interior designer Jonathan Adler, and it's providing us with every bit of inspiration we need for fall decor ideas. 

Embracing Adler's signature style, the new rugs take inspiration from the glamour of the Art Deco movement, featuring bold, geometric patterns that are guaranteed to add drama to your home. The colors are an array of rich and earthy hues, making them easy to style, and while they certainly have a certain level of a festive feel about them, they're subtle enough to look great in the home all year long. 

'The designs offer a unique aesthetic that leans into modern glam with a pastel luxe color palette – something a bit fresh for both brands,' says Jeneva Bell, founder of Ruggable. 

While choosing carpet ideas in the home is a costly investment that can be seen as far more of a practical design decision, rugs on the other hand can be swapped out throughout rooms in the home over time which means you can be far more experimental with the design. Ruggable's rugs are also washable which ensures they'll look great for years to come, even in rooms with high levels of footfall. 

Shop Jonathan Adler x Ruggable Rugs

While there are many different designs to choose from, we've rounded up some of our favorites from the collection which you can shop below. Perfect for living room rug ideas and dining room rug ideas alike, style them to create a cozy feeling throughout the home that looks endlessly timeless and elegant. 

Geometric pattern

A splash of color

Monochrome

You can find out more about the Jonathan Adler collaboration and shop the full collection of rugs – which are available in a number of sizes to best fit your space – at Ruggable.com. 

It's fair to say, that deciding on when to decorate your home for Christmas is a topic that has many of us divided in opinion. 

From December 1st (or for some even earlier), to Christmas Eve, many of us will follow different traditions with our Christmas decorating, but we're here to explore some of the most popular times to decorate so you can make the right decision for you and your home. 

With many of our favorite retailers releasing their Christmas ornaments and festive decor as early as July, it will come as no surprise that more and more of us are starting to decorate our homes early for Christmas – but is there a definitive date for decoration? We speak to the experts.

When should you put up your Christmas decorations?

There are many factors to consider when decorating your home for Christmas; from the size of your home, to the types of decorations you choose, how much time you have, and, ultimately, how much you love Christmas.

Whether you're currently planning your Christmas tree and are eager to start decorating, or want to wait until after Thanksgiving and are wondering which day to choose, to help you decide on the perfect time, we explore everything from traditional decorating dates to putting up decor on October 31st – Merry Halloween?

1. The first day of Advent

The beginning of the Advent period is traditionally celebrated by lighting candles, starting advent calendars, and putting up Christmas trees and other seasonal decorations.

This Christian tradition of Advent starts on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and marks the beginning of a period of time where preparations are made before the birth of Jesus. This year, the first day of Advent will be on Sunday 3rd December. 

As this date falls on a weekend, it makes for a perfect time to decorate your home for the festive season.

2. Straight after Thanksgiving

'The ideal time to start decorating for Christmas is ultimately based on your personal preference. Some people love the holiday season and like to start decorating for Christmas as early as November, making the festive holiday feel longer, however, others may prefer to decorate closer to the big day,' says interior stylist, Vivianne Chow.

'Personally, I begin decorating right after Thanksgiving and have made it a family tradition to put up our Christmas tree during Thanksgiving weekend together.'

There are many other festivities to enjoy in the lead-up to Christmas; from celebrating the changing of the seasons with fall decor, to Halloween and Thanksgiving. Once Thanksgiving celebrations are over, it then makes sense for many to swap Thanksgiving decor with Christmas decor in one weekend, keeping feelings of fun, festive cheer going.

3. December 1st

Mark the start of the official countdown to the big day and put up your Christmas decorations on December 1st.

'Growing up, I remember visiting local garden centers with my mum and we could never believe the baubles and festive decorations were already out on display in October. The first weekend of December seems about right if you ask me. It's straight after Thanksgiving and is a great way to mark the beginning of the most joyful and festive month of the year,' says Millie Hurst, Homes & Gardens' Section Editor.

4. Decorate in stages

Your decorations do not have to all go up on the same day, often it is better to decorate your home in stages – especially if you're planning stand-out festive displays across multiple rooms in your home.

From putting up advent calendars and Christmas wreaths on December 1st, to waiting until the first weekend of December when you have more time to put up your Christmas tree and outdoor Christmas decorations, decorating your home for Christmas should be a fun, joyful experience and shouldn't be rushed.

5. Whenever works for you

Ultimately, there is no right or wrong time to put up your Christmas decorations, it is completely up to you on when the time feels right. 

'At the end of the day, I think it's important (in all forms of decorating) to do what makes you happy. If you want to decorate early, then do it! If you are someone who loves Christmas, start decorating straight after Thanksgiving. If you can't stand the clutter that comes with Christmas decor, then wait until closer to the big day, or do as the Victorians once did and decorate on Christmas Eve. Put up your decor when it feels right for you,' advises interior decorator Jenna Shaughnessy.

One other factor to consider when deciding on when to start decorating for Christmas is the type of decorations you will be using, as Sarah Ruffalo, professional tree decorator and owner of The Holly Jolly Box says, 'If you're wanting to decorate with a real tree and lots of beautiful winter flowers and foliage, it is best to wait until the first week of December to decorate, as the greenery will typically last for 3-4 weeks.' Nobody wants a wilting Christmas tree on Christmas day.

FAQs

Ultimately, the right time to start decorating for Christmas is when it feels right for you and your family. It's nice to have some kind of decor in your home throughout the winter months switching from fall, to Halloween, to Thanksgiving and then transition into Christmas. Just consider the practicalities like the type of decor you like, the amount of time you have, and if you have any events planned this year that you would like your home decked out for.

Ashley Tisdale may be a celebrated actress, but her talents expand far beyond the silver screen. 

Instead of enlisting an interior designer when moving into her LA home, Ashley, best known for playing Sharpay Evans in High School Musical, enrolled in Kelly Wearstler's Masterclass before creating a Cali-cool space with an undeniable-Wearstler-inspired twist. And no room showcases this quite like her living room. 

'Warm tones and open windows. I'm in love with how my living room turned out,' Ashley says while describing the neutral space. However, while her color palette is certainly worth the shout-out, it is her fluted wall that has really got designers talking. 

Fluting, or fluted panels, first surged the Art Deco movement of the 1920s and '30s, and it's easy to understand why the interior design trend found fame in this era. Characterized by geometric shapes, these panels epitomize the glamor of this eternally influential design movement – but there is more to this technique than its good looks. 

'Adding a fluted effect helps to extenuate the verticality of the room and makes the space taller or grander,' says Maryland-based designer Esther Chi. In her projects, Esther uses fluting across rooms, starting with the living room, like Ahsley, but also in the entryway and stairwells to create a 'sense of cohesiveness' in the home. 

And Esther is not alone in her support of Ashley Tisdale-inspired fluted trend. 'I am currently working on a project in Park Slope, Brooklyn, with this gorgeous effect,' comments designer and Compass real estate agent Monica Breese. 

'I love wall paneling, but the fluted trend is something I have embraced in some recent designs. It gives dimension to a space. It’s a built-in piece of art.'

Monica, like Esther, also recommends bringing our fluting beyond the living room, into the entryway area, and beyond to allow this feature wall to impress in more than one space.  

'We are currently installing the paneling in a Park Slope townhome and are using a fluted look not only in the living room but also along walls going up the stairs – from the ground floor up to the fourth floor,' she comments. 

'It gives an added detail to the often overlooked space. We also have fluting around the island as an additional detail to complement the kitchen.' 

For more Ashley Tisdale-inspired design quirks, we're tapping into her living room's look with these three buys below. 

At the start of the year, we predicted that curves would boast a prime place in the top bathroom trends for 2023. It's no surprise then, to see interior designers and celebrities alike echoing this luxe design style for 2024.

Inspired by the Art Deco movement, bringing curves into the bathroom, and more specifically curved sinks, is a design feature we're seeing cropping up recently; from recent projects by esteemed interior designer Kelly Wearstler to the pool bathroom of Emma Chamberlain's Los Angeles home, which was designed by Proem Studio. 

'Curved sinks are becoming more and more popular, largely because of the sleek and elegant imagery they bring to a bathroom,' explains bathroom design expert Richard Mann. 'This contemporaneous design can work very well inside modern bathrooms with minimalist organization. They are also frequently used as a focal point of a bathroom because of their striking impression.'

Channel the decadence of art-deco

Inspired by the Art Deco movement, which is all about symmetry, opulent colors, and luxe materials, curved sinks certainly nod to this style of design. Their statement shape demands attention in the room whilst they look endlessly sophisticated thanks to the soft curves as opposed to harsh lines.

'While some might view curved sinks as a current trend, the vessel or curved vanity and sink has its roots in the Art Nouveau and Deco movements and their advantages position them as a lasting design choice,' explains interior designer Nicholas Kaiko.

Consider material choice

When it comes to choosing bathroom materials to use in curved sinks, there are a number of options to choose from. While Kelly Wearstler's design features heavy stone that looks instantly luxe with rich veining detailing, Emma Chamberlain's is made from a solid wooden base while the top is kept simple is a sleek off-white. 

Kaiko explains: 'The materiality of a sink can elevate its design. Stone, as depicted in the Kelly Wearstler image, with its timeless elegance and natural variance, makes for stunning curved sinks.'

'However, budget constraints don't mean compromising on aesthetics. Man-made materials like laminates offer an abundance of color and finish options, while materials like Corian and concrete provide a modern, seamless look,' says Kaiko.

Balance practicality with style

Not only are curved sinks an aesthetic choice for the bathroom but they're also praised for their practical qualities, as Kaiko explains: 'Curved sinks, with their smooth profiles, not only lend a contemporary feel but also simplify cleaning. The absence of sharp corners also makes them safer, especially in homes with young children.'

However, it is also important to be aware of the practicality of your choice of material, as Mann suggests: 'The sink is a particularly vulnerable area to spread any stains, simply because of the amount of water that touches the surfaces.'

Looking for some more design inspiration for the bathroom? We spoke to the design experts to round up our favorite bathroom ideas, spanning a wide range of styles to suit your preferences. 

We may have spent the latter half of 2022 swooning over The White Lotus' set (especially the ornate Villa Tasca in Palermo), but Alexandra Daddario's current reality rivals her fictional world. 

The actress, best known for the hit show, resides in a stylish LA home that is already on our radar. We've already penned a love letter to her minimalist bedroom and blue Shaker kitchen – but now, Alexandra has offered a look inside the most glamorous room to date: her open-plan living room. 

Complete with fluted wall paneling, a statement green couch, and an abundance of geometric-printed cushions – Alexandra marries art-deco patterns with retro hues and materials to create a timeless space on the right side of daring. 

We may have already compared the space to the famous White Lotus Italian villa, but confess: this home looks equally Parisian – not least thanks to its quietly luxurious materials and timeless prints that tap into the 1920s European design aesthetic. It's a look that hasn't gone unnoticed by Etsy's trend expert, Dayna Isom Johnson. 

According to Dayna, the 'relaxed refinement of the Parisian apartment aesthetic is all about embracing the French "art de vivre", also known as the "art of living well", – something Alexandra masters in this divine space. 'Parisian interiors' is among the top design trends that Etsy predicts will influence how we decorate our home for the rest of 2023 – and we're using Alexandra's living room as the ultimate muse. 

'Focus on sourcing classic, quality materials, and charming antique and vintage finds – like gilded mirrors, marble accents, and oil paintings in ornate frames – paired with dark woods and light walls,' Dayna recommends. 

Yes, after years of lighter-colored, Scandinavian-inspired woods ruling living room trends – dark wood has fallen back in favor – and of course, Alexandra is already ahead of this movement too. 'On Etsy, there has been a 337% increase in searches for walnut desks and accessories and a 28% increase in searches for brown seating or furniture,' Dayna adds.

The darkness of Alexandra's dining table also emphasizes the room's Art Deco style even further. The basis of this look involves creating contrasts – think rich blacks and brown woods with softer golds, creams, and sandy beiges –or, in the actress' case – creamy-colored paneling. 

Complete with the greens of the retro velvet sofa (and a houseplant, that's worth an honorable mention), Alexandra manages to pay homage to this year's biggest trends while staying timeless. And we want to buy our way in at the first opportunity. 

Here are three key picks to begin with.

With the alluring connection with nature, there is so much scope for decorating with green walls. Pale shades can create relaxing spaces, rich, velvety greens offer a sophisticated aesthetic, while vibrant tones can feel enlivening and exuberant. 

A naturally organic shade, green is very easy to live with. Take inspiration from the varied greens and textures of the forest. For a soothing ambiance, layer lighter or darker tones with tactile fabrics such as linens and velvets.

There are many different shades of green across the spectrum that pair well with many other colors within interior design, while experts say there are also colors to never pair with green. The important thing is to pair whatever hue you choose with the right accent color to create a feeling of flow throughout a room. This is why it is important to know how to use a color wheel. 

‘Green reassures us on a very primitive level. We know we can find food and water, which means green equals life. Using greens in our home, we can bring in these feelings of rest and reassurance,’ says Karen Haller, color and design psychology specialist and author of The Little Book of Colour. 

However, include green in a room carefully. 'Surrounding ourselves with too much green or the wrong shade can lead to feelings of stagnation and lethargy,’ Karen adds.

Whether you are decorating with green walls painted in a bold block color or introducing it through pattern, there are many green room ideas to inspire for every space in your house.

Decorating with green walls – and more

With so many ways of decorating with green walls, whether you are considering green bathroom ideas to green bedroom ideas, it’s advisable to first examine the architectural features and flow of your space before settling on room color ideas.

‘Green is incredibly versatile, but it’s important to consider the colors that already exist within the space, be that furniture, flooring, artwork or textiles; these are all elements that should be included as colors within your palette,’ says Ruth Mottershead of Little Greene.

‘Most importantly, consider the atmosphere you want to create; is it calm and cocooned or energetic and vibrant? Vivid, lively greens work well in rooms that are made for entertaining, such green dining rooms, kitchens, and green living rooms. But you don’t have to commit to all four walls: you can opt for just a pop of bright, rich contrasting green on dining chairs, woodwork or paint a single door – it’s a quick and easy way to add impact and an element of surprise to an interior.’

In addition, there are different varieties of the various shades of green when you are decorating with green walls. For instance, 'dark green can have a warm, yellow undertone or a cool, blue hue,’ explains Justyna Korczynska, senior designer at Crown. ‘Deep green as a color family is incredibly versatile and can be paired with so many different shades and materials that will bring out either its warm or cool tone. Deep green really comes to life with plenty of natural light, so south-facing rooms would be best. However, it can work in a dark, narrow space too, when paired with terracotta shades and mid-tone wood to bring in warmth.’

Create a deep green cocooning backdrop

Highlight wall paneling ideas with a velvety rich green, such as Botanical Noir from Crown, taking it over architraves and skirting to ceiling height.

Painting all five walls (including the ceiling) in the same shade when decorating with green walls creates a cocooning effect, perfect for snugs.

Take inspiration from the forest

The majesty of ancient forests has long inspired interior designers to experiment with decorating with botanicals and whether it is the grandeur of an oak tree or the enchanting shape of an acanthus leaf, rich velvety greens offer our imaginations and our homes a nurturing connection to nature.

For an elegant and relaxing living room when decorating with green walls, create an oriental forest scape inspired by timeless chinoiserie designs, such as this wallpaper from Romo, with its captivating silhouette of delicate wildflowers and elegant trees, for a dramatic, continual wallcovering. Contrast with chairs upholstered with floor-length pleated skirts in a light neutral fabric.

Use contrasting color blocks

Forget the old prejudices of not using blue and green together, and create a sophisticated color-blocked scheme with a carefully considered combination of the two. 

In this two-tone kitchen, kitchen walls in Farrow & Ball's velvety green, Beverley, pair beautifully with cabinets and moldings in the brand's Selvedge blue, and pops of yellow and orange accessories add joyful accents for year-round cheer. This perfectly demonstrates the versatile choices open to you when decorating with green walls.

Offer a warm welcome

Create a warm and inviting scheme by decorating with green walls. Green is a balanced and welcoming shade as a green hallway idea – and it is also practical as it will not show up the marks and scuffs often associated with high-traffic areas.

Here walls painted in Fynbos from Paint & Paper Library offer a wonderful contrast to patterned hall tiles and pale woodwork. 

Contrast vine wallpapers with dark wood

Rich greens work particularly well with antique dark woods. Contrasting a pretty vine wallpaper design with upholstery in reversible geometric pattern linen looks wonderful when teamed with antiques such as mahogany and bobbin-turned furniture. 

‘I use a lot of green because it is very calming,’ says interior designer Sarah Vanrenen. ‘Nature has really come to the fore and greens and blues evoke that very well.’

‘I also love using patterned wallpaper in green. I don’t think space is a barrier to going bold – don’t be put off by using strong colors and patterns in even the smallest spaces and use it on all four walls. The effect is dramatic and green works with so many other incredible colors too.’

This pretty large vine wallpaper combines well with a little sprinkle of blush pink by way of pleated lampshades and antique lusterware ceramics.

Pick a pale green to promote restfulness

A pale green is restful, especially in a busy space; but in a bedroom that's lit warmly, it can feel incredibly soothing, especially if matched with a blush pink. Green is generally considered to be the best color for a bedroom by paint experts, as well as one of the most relaxing colors. You can use the color wheel to ensure the green you pick matches accent colors of the right tones. Conjuring scenes of romantic, flower-filled country gardens, pink and green is a natural pairing. The important thing is to pair whatever hue you choose with the right accent color, like the soft pink above, to create a feeling of flow throughout a room.

Try pairing warm, pale green hues such as Little Greene's Ulla with blush pink for a restful and romantic bedroom scheme.

Decorate with sage green for a relaxing living room 

Chalky sage green walls are a restful choice for a living space. Pair with botanical design elements and fresh greenery to invite the feeling of nature indoors. 

The smart bold stripe armchair and elegant rug with scallop edge detail add a modern note. It is fun to play with different shades of green in the mix, as here with the artichoke green of the armchair from Ceraudo and the celadon green of the cane side table from Trove. 

'The wall canvas, with floral botanical design wallpaper from Designers Guild is a clever way to introduce a panel of pattern in a contained way, without overwhelming a room,' says stylist Kiera Buckley-Jones.

Dare to go for a wall-to-wall apple green for warmth

An easy way to introduce color to a living room is to go bold with your walls. Whether you opt for a bright paint color, or choose a wallpaper in a vivid green tone, you can really transform a room instantly and easily. 

For an optimistic space consider painting walls in vibrant, jewel-like peridot greens. Try walls in Sage & Onions, a shade from Little Greene's National Trust Greens collection, with a dado painted in the blue-toned Tea with Florence for a contemporary twist. 

And as the two colors most regularly seen together in nature, combining green and blue room ideas requires our eyes to do little, to no, adjusting, which is perfect for creating a feeling of harmony – even in small dining rooms.

Decorate with emerald green for a heritage feel

With its roots in the timeless beauty of nature, mid-greens make brilliant backdrop for displaying artwork. Try a mid-green paint in a living room as a base for hanging a variety of your favorite plates for an interesting living room feature wall. 

Be brave when choosing living room color schemes in small spaces. Keeping the wall the same color as the furniture helps to blend the room together – if nothing stands out, then your eye will flow around a space, and in a small living room this can be key to making it feel larger.

Create a vintage kitchen with leaf green cabinets

Leaf green can be teamed with contrasting colors to create a vintage kitchen aesthetic, as this kitchen from British Standard by Plain English proves. Shaker-style cabinets in Little Greene's Hopper are paired with chequerboard tiles and exposed salmon-pink plaster walls for unique, homely look, but you could also pair with a paler green for a fresher feel.

'People are being braver and having more fun with color in the kitchen,' adds Richard Moore, Design Director at Martin Moore. 'Previously our clients were choosing bold colors, such as electric blue and hot pink, for smaller accent pieces in the kitchen. However, today we are seeing an increase in the number of people opting for bright colors throughout the kitchen, especially on kitchen cabinets and walls.'

Pair olive green with period patterns

With warm, earthy undertones, light olive shades are a brilliant choice for decorating with green and are a good match for rusty tones, natural materials and folksy fabrics as this scheme by Lorfords and Edward Bulmer proves.

‘Early recipes for olive green seem to have been a browny hue but by the 19th century the addition of Prussian blue meant that it was a full green close to the colour of a plump Mediterranean olive,' says Edward Bulmer. 

'Too dark and the color tends to black when in the shade, so I have kept it a strong mid tone. It can be a great woodwork color and is also robust enough for exterior use.’

Bring vitality to a kitchen with olive green cabinetry or walls

Imbued with the nourishing powers of nature, green kitchen ideas are having something of a moment. This hasn't gone unnoticed by designers, who recognize the power of green and have introduced it into their kitchen ideas in a variety of smart, creative and sophisticated ways.

‘Serpentine, our striking olive green, is used to splendid effect here in our latest Devine design. It’s a stunning color with earthiness and depth that leaves you feeling nourished and full of life, perfect for kitchen environments,' says Tom Howley of the eponymous kitchen company. 

'This bold color may pack a punch, but you have a scheme with undeniable appeal when combined with burnished brass hardware and Caesarstone Organic White worktops.’

Equally, olive green walls can make a dramatic impact when paired with paler cabinetry for a timeless aesthetic.

Bring the outside in with a bold botanical wallpaper

With green available in a whole host of shades, it’s easy to find green living room ideas that will suit your look and give your scheme a seasonal lift, whether it’s a large-scale makeover for the living room or simple styling project. 

Fabric and wallpaper ideas featuring botanical prints are pretty without being too feminine, and they work just as well in both modern living rooms and country living room schemes. In this botanical-inspired green living room, Cole & Son trellis wallpaper speaks of blissful spring and summer days in the backyard.

Choose a delicate mural for a beautiful finish

Wall mural ideas are having a real moment, and foliage wallcoverings and botanical designs work really well at evoking an elegant, almost conservatory-like feel, linking the room with the outdoors. This delicate Romo wallcovering of wistful willow branches performs as an elegant backdrop for gathering at the table with friends and family, a beautiful example of green dining room ideas.

The table is decorated with a wonderfully whimsical, ruffle-edged cloth from Amuse La Bouche, in this fresh minty stripe, which enhances the overall fresh and informal feel. 

'The combination of delicate foliage and perky stripe is a heavenly combination here, evoking a fresh and airy dining space, elegant but not too formal,' says Kiera Buckley-Jones, the stylist who created this space for us.

Combine green abstracts with white for a fresh feel

Is there any color more suited to this current climate than green? At at time when our happiness and health have seemed more important than ever, it's only right that we'd want to surround ourselves in shades that symbolize growth and renewal. 

If papering wall-to-wall with green prints is too daunting a prospect, consider using green fabrics to bring a fresh twist to a neutral living room which can be introduced through window treatments, upholstery or on lampshades, and then choose a white wall paint with a green undertone. 

Bold abstract prints in leaf green including Schumacher's Full Circle fabric (on curtains) and Rapture & Wright's Albaicin linen mix fabric (on chair), with its Moorish feel, both help create a to a lighthearted, cheerful look. 

Mix green plains, stripes and florals for elegance

Opting for curtains and upholstery in contrasting leafy green fabrics is a good way to soften and liven-up large rooms with high ceilings. Pairing prints which are complementary in tone, but which feature contrasting designs and scales will help the look feel coherent – while also creating layers of depth and interest. Try Charlotte Gaisford's elegant Chandolin Flower fabric on curtains.

'I have lots of green fabrics in my collections and in my own home. I love the uplifting feeling that a swathe of fresh green can bring to a room, whether in curtains, wallpaper or soft furnishings. Furniture in contrasting patterns but similar colors pull it all together,' says Charlotte Gaisford.

Put green on the ceiling for a contemporary twist

Make working from home a more inspiring experience by papering a small home office with a whimsical, uplifting green wallpaper. Ceiling ideas like this are making a real splash in interiors at the moment. Here Lake August's Nasturtium wallpaper makes a real statement as a ceiling wallpaper and gives a cocooning effect when used on walls and across the fifth wall – the ceiling. 

Frame a green wallpaper with a bold border

Including wallpaper among your green hallway ideas not only helps bring visual interest to transient spaces, they are also a vehicle for showcasing your personality. 

Occupying only a small part of your home and one that is used for short periods of time, entryways are also the perfect location for those big patterns and color that might feel overwhelming elsewhere. 

Try a decorative green wallpaper complete with a border for an elegant, vintage feel. Here, the traditional green scheme gives this otherwise neutral entryway a light touch, despite the pattern-on-pattern approach.

Decorate a green bathroom for an Art Deco appeal

Regardless of the size of your space, you can still have fun with an array of colors, patterns and bathroom paint ideas, as this stunning green bathroom shows. 

Conjuring the luxury and grandeur of the Jazz Age, emerald green was a popular shade in the Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods and was often used in glass products by the likes of Lalique glassware and Pilkington. These emerald green ceramic bathroom tiles contribute to a luxurious sleek feel in this bathroom, especially when teamed with luxurious brushed brass fixtures and fittings from Drummonds. 

Turn your bathroom in a vintage-inspired haven

For a more traditional bathroom scheme, switch the modern wet room look for a panelled bath and a decorative botanical wallpaper. ‘Decorating with green works very well in bathrooms as it reflects and complements the aquatic tones of water. We love using wallpaper in bathrooms to add a pattern and texture, which can have prepped or glass lining to prevent it getting wet,’ explains Penny Morrison, Founder and Design Director at Penny Morrison Studio. 

This Aspa design by Sarah Vanrenen for Penny Morrison at The Fabric Collective would be perfect for a country manor.

What color goes with a green wall?

There are many colors that go with a green wall. Green is a hugely versatile color that can pair well with all sorts of shades, but works particularly well with earthy, natural tones, as Ruth Mottershead of Little Greene explains.

'Green combines fabulously with earthy tones, along with paler shades like creams and stone, and darker, richer colors such as browns, blacks, cherry reds and ochre which can give a more dynamic effect.'

‘Used in its wide range of hues, green is incredibly versatile and can add drama or calm to a room,' adds Edward Bulmer. 'I also believe that because of its make-up, it forms a very reliable background for a whole range of other natural materials like wood, stone and terracotta. For this reason, it is often a very good choice for hanging pictures on.'

Mirroring the landscape, green and blue is also a combination that can work well in interiors, suggests Tricia Guild, founder and creative director of Designers Guild.

‘People feel nervous about teaming blue with green, but I believe it’s a quintessential pairing. Just imagine the landscape – the endless blue optimism of a summer sky against a green and pleasant land. It's a classic combination that evokes familiarity and comfort. Make it more dynamic by using glamorous fabrics, such as our Varanasi printed silk taffeta.’ 

Neutrals offer a fresh contrast as well as colors such as turquoise, blush pink, and copper. 

When it comes to decorating with green in kitchens, pairing green with crisp white can be particularly effective.

‘Bright white is a great choice for creating crisp contrasts that will freshen and lift earthy greens. Two-toned kitchens have been in popular demand over the past year or so, not only combining colors but materials too. With bold color now materializing in kitchen design, using a two-toned palette enables you to add a bright shade without overwhelming the space,’ says Tom Howley, Design Director at the eponymous kitchen company

‘Another underrated combination to consider is light green and pink. A lush sage and blush combo are a match made in heaven for feminine bedroom scheme,’ say Rob Abrahams and Rob Green, co-founders of Coat paints.

How do you add green to a room?

If you are thinking of painting a room in green then consider the tone and warmth of the color as well as the position and lighting of the room. While many greens are beautifully neutral and work well in all sorts of situations, there are certain paint ideas which will work better in different rooms.

Energizing and uplifting, zesty lime, vibrant apple and botanical leafy shades are an uplifting choices for green kitchen ideas while greens with warm undertones, like olives as, are great for creating cozy green living rooms and for north-facing rooms. Alternatively, those at the cooler end of the spectrum such as soft mints and verditer shades are often well-suited to calming green bedrooms.

'Light greens are a great choice for north-facing rooms because of their warm undertones and are super adaptable, calming and reliably pair with both dark and neutral colors to create the perfect room combination,’ say Rob Abrahams and Rob Green, co-founders of Coat paints.

‘Dark greens are also a great choice for smaller spaces such as a narrow hallway or small bedroom. It may sound unusual to choose a dark shade for a small space, but it’s a great way to embrace the coziness that comes with compact areas. Try painting the walls, skirting boards and ceilings in one deep shade to soften the edges of the room to make it appear bigger than it is.’

What color trim goes with green walls?

There are many color trims that can go with green walls. You can pair them with a lighter or darker shade of green than your chosen wall paint or wallpaper, or pick out another color used in your decorating scheme for a complete contrast. For instance, anchor the look of kitchen cabinets by using a trim in a matching shade, add a contemporary edge to pale green walls with dark trim, or pick up on the hues of soft furnishings and accessories by reflecting in the trim color.

I'd heard plenty about High Point Market before I flew in last week, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer scale of it. I've attended Paris Deco Off and Salone di Mobile in Milan for Homes & Gardens, and both are extraordinary. But High Point Market is something else.

First there's the sheer size. Then there's the size of the brand showrooms: 20,000ft? Not unusual. Only in America! Then there's the people. I'd been told to expect a warm Southern welcome, and I wasn't disappointed, though I met incredibly friendly, engaged, fascinating people from all over the US, and all over the world. If you were one of them, keep in touch.

I was there to meet interior designers, to see what some of the best brands in the world were launching for 2023 (after all, these will dictate interior design trends for the next 12 months), and to spread the word that, though we're a British heritage magazine brand, Homes & Gardens' website talks to the US reader first (millions a month, in fact) – though we equally appreciate our millions of monthly readers from Britain and the rest of the world.

While there, I hosted a British high tea at Currey & Co, attended a dinner and (ahem, karaoke) hosted by Kravet and Mabley Handler, joined a panel talk arranged by Currey & Co and hosted by Gary Inman, and hosted a garden party at Eichholtz. And in between that, I had appointment after appointment with brands and interior designers both familiar and new to me. I'll post the highlights on Homes & Gardens' Instagram once I've had a chance to sift through the hundreds of photos I took. But in the meantime, I'm sitting on a plane with patchy WiFi and plenty of time to write, so I thought I'd share the recurring trends I spotted at High Point Market 2022, so you know what to look out for in 2023. Forgive the lack of professional photos – most were snapped at speed while there was a gap in the crowd.

High Point Market 2022 trends spot

Listed in no particular order, this are the materials, shapes, colors and themes emerging this year into next.

1. 'Emotional support' furniture

Bouclé and velvet as upholstery materials are still showing strongly, but there's a definite shift towards two new looks/finishes. The first is one that creates what I'm calling 'emotional support' furniture. Essentially, the upholstery looks and feels like a lamb's back. Or a poodle's. Or a long-haired cat's. Whatever, settle into one of these chairs and you'll find yourself unable to stop stroking the upholstery. It's incredibly relaxing and welcoming. And the effect is just as soothing as when you're stroking your pet. It's pure bliss. Eichholtz's take is pictured, and Bernhardt had plenty of these pieces, but many of the contemporary brands had their own versions too.

2.  Tweed suiting upholstery

It doesn't seem long ago that furniture was covered in smart tweed-look upholstery, but it is most definitely back - last seen yesterday at Eichholtz. The benefit? The tweed generally has three to four neutral colors woven together, so it will fit seamlessly into any bolder color scheme, or bring a touch of texture to neutral rooms.

3. 'Evidence of hand' & craftspersonship

These aren't necessarily exactly the same thing. Stickley were understandably at pains to show me the traditional methods and hand-crafting that went into making their furniture, as were some of the smaller brands I discovered, whose craftspeople are based in the States and over in Europe, India, Africa and the Far East. 

However, there's a real demand and desire more widely for what's being called 'evidence of hand' (I think that was coined by Christiane Lemieux of Lemieux et Cie, who was showing me her collections for Global Views (above) and Visual Comfort). It means pieces, which may or may not be mass market, but which are hand-finished or at least which look hand-finished. And it's no surprise - whether hand-made one-offs, limited editions or mass market pieces, they give homes a curated, individual appeal.

4. Calculated inconsistencies that tell a story

I'm attributing this phrase – which speaks to 'evidence of hand' and is often applied in the same way as 'calculated vintage' (below) to give a new piece an old or unique look – to Lance at Jaipur, too, though he wasn't the only person to mention it. In fact, when I met Eddie Maestri of Maestri Studios out of Texas, we discussed this – and how he was delighted with a recent eBay purchase of an Italian table that had the tiniest chip on it. 'I'm happy with the chip, it shows the table has a story behind it,' he said, or, at least, I paraphrase. 

5. Calculated vintage

This trend came up again and again, and it speaks to the 'evidence of hand' and desire for authenticity theme I mentioned above. I have to give credit to Lance Trachier, Creative Director at Jaipur Living for this phrasing. During the fascinating tour of the showroom, he explained how original vintage rugs might be at the top of everyone's wishlist but that they are often purchased for the living room, with less expensive, much more practical lookalikes reserved for less seen or heavily used rooms beyond – think the kitchen, playroom and bedroom, where you might not want to commit your budget to a hand-made, delicate piece. The 'calculated' part of the 'vintage'? The designs and motifs mimic the originals, often through hand applied ageing so that a brand new rug can look as good as old.

6. Pseudo neutrals

Let's talk color trends. Furnishing and decorating with neutrals isn't what it used to be because neutrals are no longer limited in scope: now, everything from dusky pink to grey purple is being used as a background neutral. This was evident in Mabley Handler's pinks for Kravet right through to Fabricut's fabric range for Liberty, and it makes rooms richer, warmer and more characterful.

7. Chromophobia

Monochromatic color schemes are out, according to many of the brands and designers I spoke to. Whether you go for the joyful colors and prints shown by Thibaut and Scot Meacham Wood Home, the fabulously colorful furnishings at Julian Chichester, or use pseudo neutrals to add color layering, it's all about variety.

8. Art Deco reinvented

Particularly noticeable in the lighting of Hudson Lighting Group and Arteriors, the sideboards at Century and Bernhardt (above), and the home bars I saw everywhere, Art Deco decor is back. Its echoes are seen particularly in the circles and geometrics on the fronts of sideboards, in the smoked glass of lighting shades and coffee tables, in the lighting silhouettes, even in the juxtaposition of the ubiquitous curved sofas and armchairs and rectangular rugs and angular coffee tables.

9. Mixed materials

This furniture trend has been around for a while, but it's out in force, seen in lights that are a combination of glowing, inner-lit alabaster and aluminum; in furniture that's composed of ebonized wood, steel and bouclé, and in coffee tables that pack timber, metal, and natural stone into their makeup. 

10. Modern fancy

Thanks Christiane Lemieux of Lemieux et Cie for this one. I hardly know how to describe it – Christiane can no doubt correct me. The nearest I can get is that it's a contemporary aesthetic that's left that cold, sleek minimalism way behind it and incorporated so much of what I've talked about above: 'evidence of hand', intriguing combinations of materials, purposeful individuality and eye-catching shapes and textures. Above, you can see it applied in her range for Precedent.

11. Sustainability

'Buy well, buy once' is a running theme that connects us right back up to the craftspersonship I talked about above. Interior designers say their clients are much more interested in the provenance and processes involved in the materials and pieces they are sourcing, and that bleeds back to the brands and the production processes they invest in. I think brands need to talk sustainability up more – we should all know everything there is to know about what we're writing about, promoting, selling and buying. 

12. The cut out club chair - that swivels!

You'll have to forgive me. I'm British born and bred and, as far as I knew, you couldn't buy a swivel chair in UK high streets. I think it's probably because our homes and rooms tend to be smaller so our furniture is often pushed back against the walls, so no need, or use, for a swivel. With the advent of open plan living and multi-purpose rooms, that's going to change. Especially since, Arteriors told me, they do sell swivels into the UK, so other brands must do too. The best are those that are deceptive and don't look like they swivel, that are incredibly comfortable (to be honest, I did so much walking that they were all dreamily welcoming), and that have a fabulous silhouette. For me, that's the cut out club swivel chair, and there are models made for outdoors. Outrageously stylish for sunny afternoons. 

13. Wellness

It's the obvious one, for me, to finish with. It was a hot topic at the panel discussion for Currey & Co, and I had a fascinating chat with interior designer, lifestyle and wellness expert Joshua Smith about how he incorporates it into his work. Wellness, it is evident, goes beyond the yoga mat, the spa bathroom and the perfectly curated bedroom. It's equally about choosing colors, shapes and materials that please our eyes and soothe us when we touch them, about creating rooms and finding pieces that are unique to all of us and which tell a story, and about sourcing materials and furniture that do as little harm as possible to the planet, so that our homes can be more than just well-presented showpieces, but truly personalized havens, too.

Fall is many people's firm favorite season. With the cooler weather and the warmer-toned interiors, it is hard to avoid the desire to decorate your home for the season. So, how do you decorate your walls in the fall for added flair? 

With fall decor ideas at the forefront of everyone's mind, decorating your walls for the season may not be the first thing that comes to mind. Despite this, adding either temporary wall decor ideas or more permanent wallpaper ideas can help to bring the fall season into your space either for the period, or to hail the season throughout the year. 

Here, designers have offered their ideas for decorating your walls in the fall.

How can I decorate my walls in fall?  

Decorating walls doesn't have to be a permanent change and can encompass ideas such as wall hangings or art, alternatively adding new wallpaper or paint can instantly change up a space and provide a semi-permanent new look for any space. 

1. Opt for wall sculptures

While decorating with art is an easy and obvious way to decorate your walls in fall, adding dimensional wall art and sculptures can help add texture and variety to the space. 

‘Instead of opting for prints or 2D art consider searching for wall sculptures. These could be unique ceramic, resin, or woven designs which can be easily displayed on a wall, when you push the boundaries of what art is, individual pieces like this look expensive and personal,’ suggest Jen & Mar, co-founders of Interior Fox. 

Consider adding wall baskets, for example, to incorporate natural textures that are so closely associated with the fall season. 

2. Change wallpaper for a long-lasting fall florish

While wallpaper and paint ideas are a more permanent wall decor idea, they can help to cultivate a fall feeling throughout the year for those that adore the fall season. 

‘Create a relaxing haven that evokes the soothing power of nature with the richly layered leafy wallpaper ‘Vine’ in Verde,’ suggests Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene. ‘This beautifully textured surface printed design adds a sense of depth, with birds and berries appearing to emerge from the canopy of deep green foliage.’

‘Our Fall 2022 wallpaper collection consists of six patterns inspired by the spice markets of Indonesia. Although we offer colors in soft greens and blues, we focused on warm colors you would experience while visiting the markets, warm golds, reds, and browns,’ Clay McLaurin of McLaurin & Piercy suggests. 

‘Our central pattern, Maluku in color Tiki, is grounded by a warm deep red and tells a rich story that marks a moment in time. Dash in color Earth, printed on grasscloth, will quickly warm up a space in a dining room or study. Include our Dash printed fabric on linen in the same space to continue the stripes on the furniture.’ 

3. Avoid bright shades

When it comes to curating the perfect fall color schemes for decorating your walls, it is best to avoid the harsher, brighter hues that are usually associated with summer and spring. 

‘Avoid harsh bright whites and instead combine with the natural stone hues and soft greys of ‘Portland Stone Dark’ and ‘Rolling Fog Dark’ and for a luxurious feel that envelops the space and adds warmth, paint the ceiling in the sumptuous ‘Purple Brown’,’ continues Ruth Mottershead.

‘Regal yet mellow, Tyrian Plum’s warmth, ripeness, and depth of pigment make it the perfect backdrop, but despite its richness, it’s not just for the winter months,’ says Annie Sloan, color and paint expert. ‘Deep purple pairs beautifully with navy blue and can be lifted depending on the season with cornflower blues, soft pinks and whites for a flattering year-round look.’ 

4. Add an accent feature

Accent wall ideas offer an excellent canvas for changing up a room without redecorating the whole space. 

'Accent walls, the back wall of bookshelves, or a small powder room would be ideal locations to use our new collection of wall coverings without spending too much on covering an entire room,’ says Todd Piercy of McLaurin & Piercy. 

‘Maluku used in a powder room would be beautiful and cozy as it would envelop the space telling the patterns rich story. Oasis would make a wonderful accent wall as the scale is perfect for a punch of pattern in a room. Batak, Meadow, and Dash used behind a bookshelf would add the perfect texture to such a small, yet busy space.’ 

5. Add a festive wall wreath or garland 

Fall wreath ideas should not only be reserved for your fall front door decor, just as festive fall garlands are not reserved for fall mantel ideas. Incorporating fall wreaths and garlands as wall art for fall walls can help to introduce nature into the space while keeping your decor on the walls, as opposed to simply decorating with plants or decorating with dried flowers on surfaces such as coffee tables or bookshelves that may already be cluttered, used frequently, or are already styled. 

6. Install sculptural sconces  

Lighting ideas do not have to be purely functional. There is beauty to be found in sculptural wall sconces that can be used both for functionality, layering lighting in a space and as a wall art piece. 

With the fall period bringing darker days, wall lights are also more practical than the long summer months in living room lighting ideas or bedroom lighting ideas so you can relax after a long day but also read a good book or enjoy another hobby.

Julian Page, head of design at BHS suggests using non-wired wall lights for a festive finish that can easily be removed or changed out with the seasons. ‘For wall lights, try a plug-in light. Wall lights with a plug work similarly to any table or floor lamp and don’t require any complicated electrician work. And when you would like another style, simply unplug and swap for another – it’s that easy!’ 

7. Change up a gallery wall

If you already have picture frames around the home or gallery wall ideas, changing out the images in existing frames or replacing artwork can help to decorate your walls for fall without permanently changing your space and decorate for fall on a budget. 

Choose images or art that have warm tones or autumnal themes – or even personal photos from fall days out.  

How do I start decorating for fall? 

If you're wondering how to start decorating for fall, consider changing out summer themes items for fall decor pieces such as warm-toned soft furnishings and artwork and layering luxe natural textures such as wool for a warm, cozy appeal. 

Sticking to a cozy fall scheme with deep greens, warm tans and deep browns alongside warmer neutrals such as creams and beiges take a step away from the crisp summer schemes to differentiate the two seasonal decorating styles. 

A movie room is an ultimate luxury. However, gone are the days of dull or dated cinema-style lounges or unsightly black boxes squeezed into corners of family or living rooms. These days, movie room ideas are all about luxury, comfort, and style, and yes, it is possible to combine all these decadent qualities into one space. 

There is no need to sacrifice style when designing an entertainment center for the whole family to enjoy. There are many versatile TV stand ideas and designs out there to choose from that can best integrate into your home and work alongside your existing living room TV ideas or within a new space entirely.

Movie room ideas

We've curated a selection of beautiful solutions to create a movie room scheme that you can be proud of, whether that be alongside existing family room TV ideas, or as a standalone space that rivals even the best movie theaters.

1. Use LED lighting for a subtle glow

‘A dedicated movie room is a really fun space for the family,' says Caroline Milns, head of interior design at Zulufish. 'Lighting is key and this intelligent lighting system with dimmable LED around the ceiling and additional lower-level wall lights, gives great flexibility, offering different ambiances as required. 

'Storage is equally as important and built-in bespoke units with plenty of space will ensure the movie room remains clutter-free with all cabling and wiring concealed from view, ensuring the focus is solely on enjoying the movie. For the ultimate comfort, why not opt for a larger style sectional with a few throws and cushions for an additional layer of coziness.'

2. Indulge in the ultimate seating experience

'When it comes to the future of home cinema, these luxurious recliners are complemented by the multi-purpose media consoles,' say the KING Living Design Studio.

'Sitting between two King Cloud V sofa modules, the media consoles are able to store subwoofers and other devices. Accompanying the visuals and premium comfort, sound can be both heard and felt through the seating, providing a multidimensional home theatre experience.'

3. Create a cozy space with dark walls 

'Perfect for family nights-in, a movie room needs to be a warm and inviting space that embodies coziness and relaxation,' says Ann Marie Cousins, interior design and founder of AMC Design. 'Dark colors paired with dark walls are a great way to make a room feel cozy, plus the dark walls can seamlessly hide the TV for when you want to relax with a book instead, for example.'

'Although a smaller movie room, opt for a large, oversized sectional which offers generous seating for family and friends, that is comfortable enough to spend hours on at a time. Don’t forget good black-out blinds or curtains for added atmosphere.'

4. Cocoon yourself in tactile textures and pattern

This cinema room in Aspen was created as a place for the family to enjoy time together, a chance to wrap the room in a cocoon of cozy inviting textures and to create an incredibly indulgent and relaxing space.'

'The custom Todd Merrill Studio couch was upholstered in an emerald velvet by Dedar that plays off the carpet from The Rug Company,' says Samantha Todhunter, founder and creative director of Samantha Todhunter Design. 'The artwork is by Ian Ross.'

5. Match your movie room to your existing interior style 

Combining two decorating styles means that you need to pay attention to decorative details. 'I wanted this theater to feel fun yet luxurious. Shades of dark blue make the room feel lush and meld with the rest of the home's decor,' says Brittany Farinas, CEO and creative director of House of One Interior Design.

6. Use movie theater-style seating 

The focal point of every space, these movie room seating will provide a comfortable retreat for weary feet, and an indulgent vantage point for television viewing pleasure, so it is vital to find the perfect seating for the space.

'Make sure you arrange your chairs at a slight angle to create a sense of depth in the room, as shown here, otherwise if you place all seating against the walls you might end up with a narrow 'bowling alley' look,' says Mel Bean, lead interior designer at Mel Bean Interiors.

7. Opt for an Art Deco inspired theme 

'We love seeing our Divine Savages Crane Fonda wallpaper in charcoal in Arianna Danielson's home cinema. She wanted something luxurious and a little extravagant with an overarching Art Deco vibe.'

'With her black sofas and dark, moody walls our monochrome wallpaper offers a stylish and playful contrast to the lower half of the walls making the room equally as good-looking when the lights are on, adding the perfect touch of Art Deco to her cinema space,' says Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages.

8. Adapt the space you have

'This open plan living area has sunken space that can be used for everyday relaxation, however, there's also a projector attached to the ceiling which means it can be turned into a fabulous movie room when its dark – a great interior design trick to consider if you don't have the space for dedicated movie room,' says Lucy Searle, global editor in chief, Homes & Gardens.

9. Make your TV part of the design

'Cinema and media rooms are becoming more and more popular in design projects, with them being spaces where clients can come together with loved ones to watch their favorite box sets or movies,' says Emma Deterding, founder and creative director of Kelling Designs. 'Whereas before, TVs would often be concealed, now they are becoming a part of the design plan with modern designs being works of art in their own right – some even have the option to display art or family photos when not in use.'

'We've found that any size of TV goes, so long as the space is available and in cinema rooms, we tend to install anything from 75in to 90in. It's all about dedicating a wall to the TV or a projector if you have space and then including really comfortable seating. We're seeing clients opt for really deep, comfortable sofas and armchairs over the cinema-style seating to create a more stylized, relaxed look that will seat the whole family.'

Summer may still be in its final weeks, but so many of us feel a shift at this time of year. We can help looking forward to cozier days, crisper weather and all those lovely traditions that come with fall.

Okay, so officially fall starts on 22nd September, but that's not to say you have to wait till then to start making some small switches to your home decor. But how do you know when to start decorating for fall?

Do you start when your favorite brand launches its fall decor? Or when the weather starts to change? Or is it more a feeling you get? We explore some of the best times to start decorating for fall, plus get some designer tips on how to start making some decor changes.

When is the best time to start decorating for fall?

'For me, personally, I can't start until the weather turns crisp, which in Louisville, Kentucky isn't until October,' says designer Bethany Adams. 'In my native New England, though, we'd be bobbing for apples before Labor Day. In short, do whatever makes you happy, whether your pumpkin spice is hot or on ice.'

Agreed. There's really is no set time to start decorating for fall, but we have explored a few key factors that may help you find the perfect moment to embrace fall decor in all its glory.

1. Wait for the cooler weather to settle in

One of the best times to start decorating for fall is when the weather begins to cool down for longer periods.

After the intense heat of summer, cooler weather is often the first herald of the fall season and can help to make fall decor, such as living room fall decor, feel all the more cozy and inviting.

'Late September may still be warm in many parts of the country but with October on the horizon, it’s not too early to start embracing fall as the weather starts to change,' suggests designer Jennifer Walters. 'You don’t have to pull out the skeletons just yet, but subtle changes like a wreath on the door and even the scent of your regular candles can fill the home with autumnal spirit.'

As the weather shifts, you may also want to look for changes in the leaves. The beautiful red and orange tones of autumnal leaves are a great signifier that fall is approaching – and the warm colors provide beautiful inspiration for decorating ideas in the home as well as for activities such as fall craft ideas and fall wreath ideas.

Cooler weather also allows for the lighting of fireplaces and wood stoves, making fall mantel decor ideas more appealing.

2. Start the season on October first

Despite fall officially starting with the fall equinox on September 22nd, October first marks the beginning of the so-called ‘spooky' season.

October is the perfect time to begin adding fall decor or Halloween decorating ideas to your home in preparation for the holiday. From decorating with pumpkins, to ensuring you have plenty of the best candles dotted around you home, Halloween decor and fall decor will always go hand in hand.

3. Decorate at the same time as your neighbors

If you are conscious of ending the summer season too early, looking to see if your neighbors have started to decorate may help you to decide when to start decorating for fall.

Start your fall porch ideas and fall planter ideas when you notice other people doing the same in your neighborhood – there is nothing worse than bright, possibly loud Halloween decor illuminating the street a month and a half too early.

It may also be a good idea to start small if waiting for other people, such as with an elegant autumnal wreath for fall front door decor – you then might pave the way for your neighbors to start doing the same.

4. Decorate for fall without Halloween influences

If you want to get a head start on decorating your home for fall, consider using decor pieces that do not speak to the Halloween holiday.

For more subtle fall decor, similar to cozy room ideas, consider items that help to set a snug mood; such as autumnal-inspired candles, lush throws and cushions in reds, oranges, and yellows, and subtler motifs such as pumpkins and leaves. You can also introduce rustic elements such as decorating with dried flowers and wreaths made from fall foliage; bringing natural fall color schemes and the beauty of nature into your home.

Interior designer Brooke Spreckman from Design Hutch suggests, 'swap out the little things that you touch and feel every day. Such as a new hand towel and soap dish in your powder room in a rich, cozy color palette. You can also rearrange or buy some beautiful new seasonal artwork. A nice visual re-set throughout your space will undoubtedly make you feel refreshed and ready to take on fall.'

We explore how to decorate tastefully for Halloween in our designated guide

5. Decorate for fall in stages

If you are unsure when to start decorating for fall or how to start decorating for fall, consider making small, simple changes in your home in stages.

'I like to start the fall decor transition the week after Labor Day,' says designer Kathy Kuo. 'I like the idea of transitioning slowly, especially since September in many places still can feel very warm and summery. I gradually start swapping my decorative pillows, throw blankets, and bed linens; and by October I'll start adding in seasonal decorative objects that are more overt.'

Start by removing summer decor items such as cushions, florals, centerpieces, and thinner throws to make space for fall pieces such as thicker soft furnishings in more luxurious textures such as velvet and wool, or simple switches in table scaping pieces like runners and napkins.

As the season progresses, buy pumpkins and other seasonal plants for fall color to adorn your home and front porch, before finally embracing fall fully with obvious decor pieces and Halloween decorations.

Shop fall decor

FAQs

Before you start decorating for fall, it is also worth considering generally preparing your house for the colder months by cleaning out your hearth ready for cool fall nights. We explore how do I prepare my home for fall in our designated feature, and have also created a fall cleaning checklist to help you on your way.

These are our favorite bedroom themes – bar none. More than any other space in the home, your bedroom is the one place where you want to feel joy and happiness, but when it comes to bedroom themes, deciding which is the best for your home can often prove perplexing for many. 

Having a theme for your bedroom helps to create a coherent look – and while it’s good to keep up with trends, the most important thing is to make sure it’s one that’s true to your personal style and suited to your home. 

With fewer practical constraints than other areas of the house, once you’ve covered the basics, deciding on the theme can be tricky, especially when bedroom trends are constantly changing. 

All great looks start with beautiful and inspiring images, so indulge in a research session with our decorating section, then make a moodboard for your project. 

Read on for all the good bedroom themes and inspiration you need to get your bedroom ideas off the ground in style.

What are good themes for bedrooms?

Designing a bedroom is an intricate and extremely personal process, however there are a few key things you can do to get started,' explains interior designer Emma Sims Hilditch at Sims Hilditch. 

'First, you need to decide on a theme for the bedroom; this can be inspired by many things – a particular color palette used in a piece of artwork, an item of furniture from a certain era that you particularly like, or you can start from scratch by creating a virtual moodboard on Pinterest. Once you have identified your preferred color scheme and style, you can use this to inform the rest of your bedroom design,' advises Emma Sims Hilditch.

1. New England

Tap into the enduring appeal of the coast, with a grown-up, elegant take on maritime style. New England style brings a whole range of ideas to mind, from the impressive mansions of the Kennedy, Astor and Vanderbilt families, to rustic beach houses kitted out in jaunty details.

However, the essence of all of this is comfort. Of course, you don't have to live in New England to bring a bit of this classic American style to your home. The quintessential elements are easy to introduce in any bedroom, whether you live in a Californian ranch or a Manhattan apartment. 

Both nautical and coastal style are informed by the colors, textures and materials that form the landscape of sea and shore. But nautical adds in an extra design element inspired by maritime life – yachts and sailing, the heritage of steamships and ocean liners.

When introducing this theme into the bedroom, choose a color palette inspired by the water's edge, mixing fresh neutrals with blue-grey, maritime navy and terracotta for schemes that have seashore appeal. Layer striped linens, painterly designs, rough-hewn wood with curated beach finds and coastal curios for a sophisticated take on seaside living. 

2. Scandinavian 

Scandinavian décor is popular for several reasons: pared-back, unfussy, uncluttered spaces – and a winning combination of form and function create aesthetically pleasing, yet practical bedroom interiors. The combination of clean lines, a light and bright ambience, and natural materials that typify one of these rooms has enduring appeal, after all.

‘The reason people like Scandinavian bedroom ideas is because they are so versatile,’ says artist and color expert Annie Sloan. ‘There are so many varying shades of white from warm white to cool white and the great thing about decorating with it is that whatever your style of interior – be it contemporary or country – white-on-white is a scheme that is guaranteed to look chic in a Scandinavian bedroom.’

Designed by Lucie Ayres, founder of 22 Interiors, this space utilizes texture to perfection. Texture in interior design is vital, and is not simply just about how décor and soft furnishings feel, but it's also about 'visual texture' – using different materials to add interest and breathe life into a room. This is an important element of the Scandinavian design ethos.

3. Industrial 

With their rugged looks and celebration of raw materials, industrial décor is now more popular than ever – and it is easy to see why this look is desired so highly, even now. 

The industrial look is all about versatility; this is what gives industrial interiors their unmistakable aesthetic. So, when deciding how to decorate your home, the practicality and simplicity of your chosen pieces should always be at the forefront of your mind. 

When it comes to decorating ideas and furnishings, an industrial interior should be practical and uncomplicated. Clean lines, minimalist forms and stark contrasts are a must, but this simplistic approach does not mean you have to compromise on comfort or warmth.

The mainstay of industrial design is unfussy, practical furniture with flat-fronts – it’s a sleek look and one that is ageing incredibly well. In fact, much of what we consider to be modern design dates back to the 1930s. Even the sleek, polished designs so typical of modern industrial design right now have been around since the 1960s.

Thankfully, the current trend for industrial style and minimalist décor is a far warmer affair. The clean lines and a fuss-free finish are still there but with texture, surface finish and soft color that bring character and are easy to live with. The simple lines show off clever engineering, form and finish, and the latest engineering techniques have helped give new life to materials previously out of favor.

4. Art Deco

Art Deco style is defined by the glamor and opulence of the early 1920s. With the advent of large-scale manufacturing, interior designers and architects wished to enhance the appearance of mass-produced functional objects. 

This trend was directly reflective of the mass usage of machine-age technology rather than handcrafted methods. Unsurprisingly, the Art Deco ethos diverged from the Art Nouveau style, which further emphasized the uniqueness of handmade objects and featured stylized forms.

Often seen in bathrooms more than any other space in the home, Art Deco has slowly started to move into bedrooms and dressing rooms. The key is to have just a few well-proportioned pieces, not multiple furnishings, which can look disparate and underwhelming. 

Here, interior designer Rebecca Hughes has used a softly patterned wallpaper idea to draw the walls in. The extra-wide bed and corresponding ottoman help to fill out the space, while a pair of large-scale matching artworks harnesses the scheme. 'Opt for three or four statement pieces, says Rebecca, 'using symmetry to add a little grandeur and subtle pattern for depth.'

5. Mid-century 

With their classic looks and pared-back style, mid-century modern decor ideas are enduringly popular – and it is easy to see why this look is revered so highly, even in the bedroom. 

Spanning the decade between the Thirties and the Seventies, these simple shapes were inspired by earlier design movements, including the Bauhaus school in Germany. Materials such as moulded plastics allowed world's best interior designers to explore new textures, colors and forms.  

For a cozier take on the open-plan look, this mid-century modern bedroom has a walk-in wardrobe finished in the same textured hessian fabric as the wall behind the bed. It’s in an apartment designed by Italian brand Cassina at the Television Centre in west London, a mid-century landmark recently revamped by architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris. 

The warmth of the natural hessian is accentuated with wooden shelving in the dressing room, amber glass lights – Ficupala by Cassina – and a pale plush carpet, which heightens the sense of enveloping softness. But to maintain a light feel, the surrounding walls and the ceiling are simply painted in an off-white shade.

6. Bohemian

Popular during the Seventies – when rattan furniture, clashing colors and indoor plants reigned supreme – Bohemian bedroom ideas are having something of a resurgence in the bedroom.

A good choice for the maximalist at heart, Boho style is all is all about embracing excess. Sometimes in decorating, you just need to stop worrying about what goes with what and go with the flow, follow your instincts and choose patterns, colors and furniture that make you happy – and the Bohemian bedroom is amongst the most relaxed of bedroom themes. 

Emily Henson, author of Bohemian Modern agrees: ‘The modern bohemian bedroom is a place where creativity, individuality, and a wild mix of color and pattern meet in a contemporary environment.' 

If you’re unsure, start by looking at your wardrobe as we’re usually better at expressing ourselves with fashion choices than our homes. Is it a riot of color and pattern? Then you’re probably something of a maximalist. 

7. Modern farmhouse 

Farmhouse bedroom ideas have been having its moment in the spotlight over the past few years – and for good reason. This laid-back bedroom trend strikes the perfect balance between sophisticated and rustic; like an escape to the countryside without leaving the city limits.  

The modern farmhouse style is the perfect blend of the traditional country look with the more minimal contemporary design. Clean lines and a sleek aesthetic has been the go-to interiors style for a while, but with so much happening in the world these days, we're craving a touch of the more comforting, cozy elements for our bedrooms.

When you hear the word 'farmhouse' you might imagine the classic rustic look, perhaps slightly cluttered and without any strong design thread. This is where the 'modern' element of this style is important. Emma Sims-Hilditch, founder of Sims Hilditch comments that although people often crave the charm of a country style home, 'they also want their home to be practical and to work for their needs.'

Modern farmhouse is the contemporary take on the rustic style, so everything is tailored and thoughtful. This bedroom theme embodies comfort,' adds Emma. 'To us, modern farmhouse style is all about creating a warm interior with layers, pattern and color. One way to get this look (if budget allows) is to open up ceilings to expose the rafters and make the most of the height.'

'Keep within a fairly strict color palette, too. This will prevent the look from becoming too eclectic and rustic, and instead feel curated and considered, as one might expect from a modern bedroom.

Our Memorial Day decor will help kick off the summer in style. As the unofficial start of the season, Memorial Day means backyard barbecues, outdoor picnics, and al fresco dinner parties. 

Of course, the day is also about remembering the men and women who gave their lives for our country, so a proper tribute incorporates patriotic motifs and all-American red, white, and blue.

Below, we've rounded up 10 Memorial Day decorating ideas that celebrate both summertime and the good ol' U.S.A., whether you're looking for a way to dress up your front porch, you're hosting a fancy garden party, or you've thrown together a last-minute neighborhood barbecue. 

Memorial Day decorating ideas

Our favorite Memorial Day decor is, of course, red, white and blue, which means you can reuse them again as July 4th decor ideas, too.

1. Add red, white, and blue to the porch

If you have a seating area on your porch, give it a Memorial Day update with red, white, and blue decor. Think: Throw pillows, an outdoor rug, and colorful lanterns. When it comes time to host a long-weekend get together, add to the ambience with servingware in the same hues. 

2. Set a star-spangled table

For a chic take on Memorial Day decorating, set a table that nods to the American Flag without being literal. Stylist Jennifer Griffin combined a plaid tablecloth with classic blue-and-white porcelain dinnerware and vases to create a layered look with a sophisticated All-American feel. The finishing touch? Watermelon wedges that act as a simple appetizer course while also adding to the decor. 

3. DIY a flag display

Your best grill recipes will look even better served up with a side of classic Americana. Create a simple but charming Memorial Day centerpiece with small burlap flags. To get the look above, fill a selection of colorful glass bottles with a few inches of sand, then stick a flag into each bottle. For a visual statement, group the bottles together on a tray. 

4. Invest in decor you can use all summer

Consider Memorial Day a chance to stock up on summer serving and hosting essentials, like melamine plates, multi-use baskets, and cloth napkins with seasonal motifs.

'I use décor outside that not only looks great but has a dual purpose,' says Jenny Reimold, interior stylist and HomeGoods style expert. 'I used a $20 whale-shaped wicker basket I found at HomeGoods and styled it for various uses, from holding star-spangled napkins on a table, to serving up fresh blueberry muffins as a grab-and-go summer snack station or holding sunscreen poolside.'

5. Hang fabric wreaths 

Wreaths don't have to be just for the front door. Instead, add a pair of red, white, and blue wreaths to the siding of your home with a small nail or Command hook. This look will work as summer porch decor through the Fourth of July, but you can use in on your back deck to set the scene for a Memorial Day barbecue, too. 

6. Set a red, white, and blue table

If your Memorial Day weekend plans involve an outdoor dinner party, a festive tablespace is a must. For a sophisticated look, skip the flag motifs for a more evocative setting.

'No matter what holiday or theme you're decorating for, there's usually a literal way to do it, and one that's a bit more subtle and creative. Neither is right or wrong, but if you're opting for the latter, choose colors, textures, and designs that remind you of the look you're trying to create,' says Sarah Spiteri, Homes & Gardens editorial director. 'Instead of flag prints, pull out the colors in the flag and use them in varying shades and across the different elements of your table, for example.'

To get the look above: Pair blue-and-white patterned melamine plates with a striped or gingham-checked tablecloth, and wrap basic plastic planters with cloth napkins to create a simple centerpiece.  

7. Style the porch with vintage lanterns

Retro-inspired gas lanterns are a summertime decorating must for a few reasons. For one, they elicit memories of summer sleepaway camp and family overnights at the state park. Plus, you'll find them in a range of classic colors that'll reinforce any outdoor decorating scheme. And, of course, you'll only add to the ambience of your outdoor event by lighting them up at night. 

8. Decorate the front porch

One of our favorite front porch ideas is seeing a home's exterior resplendent in the stars and stripes. If your home has a porch, take advantage of the opportunity to share your patriotism, and hang flag pull-downs from the roof of your porch or across the front railing, or wrap columns and beams with a flag banner. For a simpler look, fly an American flag from your front flag pole. 

9. Add a patriotic pop to planters

Looking for a quick and easy way to dress up your table centerpieces or patio planter ideas? Buy a set of miniature stick flags, and push them into the soil in your planters, or stand them in the middle of a flower arrangement.

The handmade, pint-size versions above are from Etsy, but you'll also find a large selection online at retailers like Amazon or Target, too. 

10. Hang a bunting

Whether you're looking to elevate your patio ideas for a family get together, or you simply want to add a festive pop to your fireplace mantle indoors, a red, white, and blue bunting is up to the task. 

The beauty of a cloth bunting is that it's both versatile and reusable, so you can rehang it in a few months for the Fourth of July, or stash it away for events in years to come. 

11. Create all-American planters

If you're planning your patio planters for the season, consider incorporating red, white, and blue for a Memorial Day decorating idea that keeps on giving. To make them feel festive, but simple enough to keep out all summer, consider a blue or red planter, like this Grandin Road version, filled with white hydrangeas. Or, swap the idea and fill a white planter with blue hydrangeas, instead.

To ensure your hydrangea continues to stay blue, treat the soil it grows in, says Melanie Griffiths, editor at Period Living and one of Homes & Gardens' resident gardening experts. 'Hydrangeas change color based on the pH level of the soil. For blue and purple shades, you'll want a more acidic soil with a lower pH,' she says. A fertilizer with aluminum sulfate will do the trick, or try adding coffee grounds to your soil. 

12. Design a sophisticated scheme

Just because Memorial Day is synonymous with the casual backyard barbecue doesn't mean you can't turn the day into an elegant affair. Forgo plastic plates and disposable cutlery for the good china or transferware with a blue-and-white pattern, set on a fabric tablecloth. Add to the atmosphere with cut crystal stemware and arrangements of red and white dahlias and carnations in glass vases.

13. Swap out throw pillows

Break out your best grill recipes and call your friends, you're about to spend the whole day outdoors. If you're lucky enough to have a backyard that fits an outdoor sofa or conversation set, make it extra cozy for long-weekend lounging with patriotic-patterned throw pillows.

To ensure the decor looks holiday-ready, but not kitschy, play up one or two American-flag themed pillows with complementary options like blue and white solids, or striped patterns in varying scales. For bonus points, lay an outdoor rug that complements your All-American color scheme. 

14. Decorate with flowers

Flowers are a simple, yet beautiful way to decorate for any holiday. For a look that's specific to Memorial Day, choose red and white blooms, like the combination of roses and daisies, above. Oher pairings that work well? Red ranunculus and white garden roses, or white dahlias and red gerbera daisies.

For a tablespace, pair the bouquets with simple blue-rimmed dishware, or blue-and-white striped table linens. 

15. Don't forget the backyard

Lawn games are a must-have backyard idea for any barbecue, so why not choose options that underscore your decorating theme? Think: croquet mallets with red and blue striped handles, a cornhole set with an Americana theme, or a ring toss game in the colors of the flag.

As a bonus, look for lawn chairs, bench cushions, or outdoor umbrellas with a red, white, and blue scheme. 

When should I start decorating for Memorial Day?

If you're decorating the outside of your house for the holiday, plan to start decorating for Memorial Day a week or two in advance. Because it's not a major holiday for decorating, like Christmas or Halloween, and the decorations are more generic, decorating any earlier might not register to passersby that your patriotic decor is meant to honor a specific holiday.

If you're decorating for a party or barbecue, decorating the day of the event, or up to a day in advance is appropriate.

Once you've decorated, however, feel free to leave your decor up straight through the Fourth of July, especially if it's on the more subtle side. Flag Day is June 14, and then the Fourth of July is just a few weeks later. 

Welcome to the year of Art Deco decor, our modern take on the pure drama, energy and optimism of all things Art Deco. Think rounded and smooth corners, the clean-cut lines, the geometric patterns, the glass, the velvet… but with an edginess that’s here to stay. 

Here we explore the very best of the Art Deco décor trend – and how to effectively and beautifully use this popular interior design aesthetic in your home. 

Art Deco decor ideas – how to embrace this popular trend

The age of jazz, roaring cars, glamorous décor and romantic train travel, cocktails in slender glasses, swinging ropes of pearls, beads and bobbed hair, feather boas and fringes, optimism and energy, color and noise – forget 2020, let us take you back to the early 1920s.

These decorating ideas will inspire you to recreate the timeless Art Deco interior design trend in your home – in 10 simple yet stylish ways.

1. Create a layered look with glamorous touches

This apartment lies in the iconic Battersea Power Station in London, so a lot of the design influences were inspired by the Art Deco heritage of the building. 'I opted to divide the large living space into three distinctive functions, starting with the dining space pictured,' says interior designer, Natalia Miyar. 'The entire room is papered in a champagne-colored linen with a woven finish that gives it softness and warmth.'

'We looked at Art Deco rugs by Francis Bacon and came up with this design which is my favorite piece, she adds. 'It references his style but with a more linear interpretation. I like to create contrasts within the palette so we introduced petrol blues, black and gold.'

'Nothing beats an upholstered chair for long, relaxed dinners. This design was inspired by a 1930s piece. I love the contrast of the angular chairs and curvy dining table, which again takes its inspiration from the Art Deco era with a finish that resembles parchment.'

The displays of art and objets bring character and visual interest to the space. The designer picked up vintage pieces and juxtaposed them with contemporary works, including a bowl by Irish glassblower Edmond Byrne and an engraving by Cuban artist Guido Llinás.

2. Add glamor with fluted details 

Now found on glass, basins, backsplashes and kitchen cabinet ideas, the ribbed surfaces of the Art Deco era are making waves in art deco kitchen ideas. 

For fluting on a grand scale, look to Smallbone’s Icarus Collection for inspiration. Demonstrating the impact of outsized sculpting in the kitchen, this unique design nods to 1920s glamor via scalloped glass, rich textures and warm tones. A shimmering wash of brushed gold accentuates the curved oak cabinet fronts, while allowing subtle graining to shine through. 

‘The unique curve was achieved using materials technology typically used in the protection zones for cars in F1 motor racing to reinforce and lighten the doors,’ says Smallbone’s ideation director, Iain O’Mahony. ‘The aim was to capture a sense of boundless imagination and craft-led design.

3. Take inspiration from the terrazzo trend

Give your bathroom an instant update with this stylish surface that adds dynamism in spades. Terrazzo comes in many forms, but the main types of authentic terrazzo are cement or resin based. 

For this Art Deco bathroom in The Siren Hotel, Detroit, design development firm ASH NYC cleverly combined both types of terrazzo according to use. The bathroom flooring is a cementitious terrazzo, which feels soft underfoot and is extremely durable but requires annual resealing. The chequerboard installation is a smart visual technique for diluting terrazzo’s bold impact. The eye-catching basin is resin-based terrazzo, which comes in bright colors and has a smoother, hygienic finish that’s easy to clean and less prone to cracks than cement-based terrazzo, with no sealing required.

4. Be inspired by a vintage pink color scheme

'I enjoy using pink in its many forms, dull, blush and even an orange-y pink,’ says Charu Gandhi, director of Elicyon. 'Our projects are often quite tailored and chic so we find pink is very adaptable and fits well, it can be striking but also romantic and gives a real sense of soft glamor – almost a romanticism. Pink room ideas also work very well with metals and even champagne gold trim fabrics, a common element within Art Deco decor ideas.'

Most colors go with pink but if you want to create a sophisticated look, stick to decorating with pink and natural shades, especially earthier tones, such as warm brown and cinnamon. Other colors that go with pink and look elegant include black, dark blue, deep green and orange. 

5. Revisit time-worn designs

Reclaimed wood has clear environmental benefits, not to mention unique historic appeal. Often associated with very rustic, time-worn designs, this version by salvage specialists Retrouvius demonstrates a more sophisticated approach. Made from old timber shelving, the geometric door fronts are beautifully executed for maximum impact. 

‘Our salvaged tropical hardwoods were used in the areas where the main cooking action takes place,’ says Maria Speake, founder, Retrouvius. ‘Brilliant for the backsplash and kitchen countertops, the wood is innately water-resistant, hard-wearing and the odd splash of oil from cooking all adds to the timber’s own natural oiliness and is absorbed to help protect the wood.’

6. Up the glamor with plush velvet

Art Deco works are often symmetrical, geometric, streamlined and pleasing to the eye. This style is in contrast to avant-garde art of the period, which challenged everyday designers to find beauty in what were often anti-traditional forms.

Welcome bygone-era glamor into your home with beautiful materials. Luxurious and eclectic, velvet gives furnishings a deluxe update this season. In a sultry palette of jewel tones, these dramatic looks have a rich, heritage-meets-fashion attitude. Soften hard architecture by lavishing touches of pomegranate, midnight teal and emerald forest with humble, natural textures like exposed wood. Channelling Art Deco grandeur, this is all about juxtaposing opulence with an honest foundation.

7. Play with scale

Large bedroom ideas can be challenging, as furniture tends to get lost in big spaces. The key is to have just a few well-proportioned pieces, not multiple furnishings, which can look disparate and underwhelming. 

Here, interior designer Rebecca Hughes has used a softly patterned wallpaper idea to draw the walls in. The extra-wide bed and corresponding ottoman help to fill out the space, while a pair of large-scale matching artworks harnesses the scheme. 'Opt for three or four statement pieces, says Rebecca, 'using symmetry to add a little grandeur and subtle pattern for depth.'

In this classically designed room with Art Deco elements, strong lines have been used to add definition: from the dark wood-framed chests and studded ottoman to the blinds with contrasting trim. Overscaled artwork cements the look.

8. Introduce decorative paneling

Sometimes all you need is the very hint at a partition to visually zone off one space from another. Use decorative glazing carefully and you may find you only need to extend this a foot or so into the center of a room to break the open-plan kitchen flow enough to create the desired separation. 

This project from design firm Maddux Creative uses a steel frame with geometric glazed panels. Nodding at Art Deco design, the panels have been filled in with a variety of glazing techniques, from colored to fluted glass. Continue the feeling of stepping into a new space by adapting the flooring accordingly, too. Here, the floor tiles reflect the tones and geometrics of the panel, emphasizing its importance in the scheme.

9. Invest in a standout home bar

The decadence and glamor of the 1920s is back in a big way, and you can apply this mood anywhere in your home.

A generous home bar is now the epicentre for modern home life and a hub for entertaining, so this interior designers believe this to be the optimum space to go for all-out opulence on a grand scale. 

‘This return to grandeur is refined and luxurious yet comfortable and allows for mixing different period pieces while connecting the schemes through unified color palettes,’ explains Marisa Gutmacher, executive design director at Samuel & Sons.

10. Go for a dynamic combination

To treat a bathroom as purely functional is to miss out on the opportunity to explore noble materials and eloquent furnishings inspired by the Art Deco period.

As a smaller room, the powder room is ripe for embracing wallpaper in Art Deco patterns and prints. ‘People worry about durability and practicality but, with a little care, there’s nothing to fear,’ assures Jamie Watkins, co-founder, Divine Savages. ‘We recommend utilizing tiling or painted paneling in areas prone to splashing. Paneling the lower half of the wall and then wallpapering above is a particularly sophisticated look.’

'I love pattern layered on pattern,' says Dara Caponigro, creative director, Schumacher. 'The trick is to use different scales – something large, medium and small with a common color thread – even if it’s just a small note of the same color carried through. Every single one of my walls is papered with a pattern. It creates a wonderful jewel box of sorts and has great emotional impact – so much better than boring white walls. 

What defines the Art Deco style?

Art Deco style is defined by the glamor and opulence of the early 1920s. With the advent of large-scale manufacturing, interior designers and architects wished to enhance the appearance of mass-produced functional objects. 

Art Deco is often defined as the pursuit of beauty. It was directly reflective of the mass usage of machine-age technology rather than handcrafted methods. Unsurprisingly, the Art Deco ethos diverged from the Art Nouveau style, which further emphasized the uniqueness of handmade objects and featured stylized forms.

How did the Art Deco trend start?

Trends have been with us for a long time. Sometimes a single event can unleash a trend. The 1925 Paris world’s fair, Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, is credited with launching Art Deco style.

Country kitchen wallpaper can raise eyebrows in even the most ardent pattern-lover. Will a pretty wallpaper suit the functionality of a country kitchen space? Where in the room should it go? And should it match your cabinets or contrast with them? 

But if you are looking to add character to your kitchen ideas, and with cabinetry taking up much of your walls, wallpaper can be a good opportunity to introduce color and pattern. 

For a warm and welcoming kitchen, country wallpaper ideas featuring delicate florals and nods to nature are the ones you’ll want to look for. Neutral and earthy tones suit large wall areas in country decorating ideas, though brighter, bolder hues can add a contemporary edge and work well as a feature wall. 

Country wallpaper ideas for kitchens

Country kitchen wallpaper will add another layer of detail to what should be a pretty, welcoming space – though it needn't be wholly traditional. Though ditsy florals and pretty pastel prints might be the obvious kitchen wallpaper ideas, more contemporary designs can give your country kitchen a more modern feel. Here, we bring you our favorite country kitchen wallpapers to inspire your room's new look. 

1. Create a contrast with country wallpaper

Country kitchen ideas can cleverly straddle both modern and traditional looks, with a contemporary country kitchen wallpaper key to getting that look just right. What do we mean by that? Well, while a traditional wallpaper design would look out of place in a modern kitchen, as you can see in the room above by Harlequin, a more contemporary repeat pattern can look wonderful in a simply-styled period-style kitchen.

Our advice would always be to tackle a kitchen remodel this way around – with timeless cabinetry and fixtures and fittings, and a more adventurous approach to decor, which can be changed more quickly and at less expense.

2. Be bold with color for a contemporary feel

Country kitchen wallpaper doesn't need to be pale or pastel. Wallpaper ideas with richer, deeper tones can add drama and depth to the room, and bring a modern touch to rustic homes.

'Opt for a rich color palette such as ochre or terracotta when choosing country wallpaper for the kitchen to inject a joyful splash of color,' suggests Paula Taylor, Graham & Brown's Color & Trend Specialist. 'This will add warmth to a cold north-facing kitchen or radiate a dazzling glow when bathed in natural sunlight.'

Pair with unbleached wood for a rustic style which evokes a homely country kitchen, or opt for painted kitchen ideas in a similar shade.

3. Incorporate a country scene

Bring a bucolic, romantic look to your country kitchen with a wallpaper that evokes a rural landscape.

'While the kitchen can be a chaotic mix, look for small prints or toile de jouy that have an airy feel,' says interior designer Elle Cole of Elle Cole Interiors. 'Papers with classic touches like florals, landscape scenes or trellis designs work particularly well and give a romantic touch to a country kitchen.'

4. Complement your cabinet color

Think complementary, not contrasting, when opting for colors for country kitchen wallpaper and painted kitchen cabinet ideas.

'You’ll want to be sure that the colors in your wallpaper tie into your cabinet color and any adjacent painted walls so that the space remains cohesive,' explains Lisa Rickert of Jolie Home. 

'A few of my favorite colors for country kitchens include warm whites, beiges, and earthy greens. Consider layering different shades of the same color, for example, a wallpaper with a beautiful green or blue background looks great paired with cabinets or walls painted in a lighter shade of the color.'

5. Use matching fabric and wallpaper

For a softer, rural-inspired look, think about pairing coordinating or complementary wallpaper and fabric. This works especially well for blinds, cabinet curtains and upholstery on seating, plus country kitchen curtains, of course.

You could choose the same scale of pattern for your country wallpaper and fabric ideas for kitchens, or choose one element that has a larger pattern, to switch up the look. You could also choose the same pattern but in a different colorway for the fabric to bring a less matched look.

'A few country-style wallpapers we adore are by Colefax and Fowler, Berkeley Sprig, Ashmead, Leaf Trellis, Sanderson and Felicity,' says Elle Cole of Elle Cole Interiors.

6. Choose a modern floral

Floral designs are a natural choice for country kitchen wallpaper ideas – they fit both the naturalness of the rustic theme and the freshness associated with food and ingredients, giving your space a French country kitchen appeal.

'Floral and natural wallpaper prints have seen a resurgence in popularity for kitchen decoration as a result of the "cottagecore" trend, which references natural materials and heritage prints to capture a feeling of comfort and rural simplicity,' explains Paula Taylor, Color & Trend Specialist at Graham & Brown. 

'These countryside- themed motifs can prevent a kitchen from feeling purely functional by breathing life and vitality into the space.'

7. Paint kitchen cabinets to complement country wallpaper 

Create a cohesive look by painting kitchen cabinets in a shade that complements the rest of your scheme. Here, a sage green kitchen island picks up the foliage tones from this fantastic floral kitchen wallpaper. 

To recreate the look, shop the Poetry II collection from Tapetenfabrik Rasch.

8. Add country charm to a modern kitchen

Striking the balance between contemporary design and country appeal can be tricky. But this space proves that you can create a country kitchen with the help of wallpaper. 

Despite its streamlined cabinetry, this intricate Tudor Garden wallpaper from Lime Lace injects plenty of country charm. The design draws on Tudor knot gardens as a reference, bringing a touch of history to the contemporary scheme.

9. Keep things simple with a pretty repeat pattern

An interiors taste that is slightly more minimal doesn’t mean missing out on country kitchen wallpaper altogether. Instead, opt for a pretty repeat pattern in a neutral tone and pair it with a simple paint scheme. Here, paper and paint are used together to add interest without overwhelming the space.

‘With much of the surface area in kitchens often taken up with cabinetry and countertops, small areas of kitchen walls are wonderful places to add pattern and texture with wallpaper,' suggests Andy Greenhall, Head of Design at Paint and Paper Library. 'Because these rooms are often visually cluttered, choose a simple pattern to maintain a sense of calm.’

‘Our Honesty design is an elegant all-over print, featuring a watercolor and crayon rendering of an honesty sprig. The motif is given plenty of space, allowing the ground to present its soft color – a gentle balance that is well-suited to busy spaces such as country kitchen diners.’

10. Use your country wallpaper to create a focal point

Combining this vintage-inspired wallpaper with Shaker cabinetry in a matching tone creates a focal point in this country kitchen. This is further enhanced by the use of pendant lighting and a striking kitchen island.

Recreate the look with the Crane Fonda ‘Palm Green’ wallpaper from Divine Savages.

11. Use picture rail moldings to increase the sense of height

Whether you are blessed with high ceilings or want to create the illusion of more head height, picture rail moldings are your friend. Simply add your country kitchen wallpaper up to the proposed height and keep the rest of your scheme a pale color. You will add character without allowing a bold print to overwhelm your space.

Find the Gibbons Carving wallpaper at Lime Lace.

12. Embrace original features when wallpapering

Some may look at a paneled room and assume that wallpaper will not work, but this sweet space proves that is not the case. A well-chosen country kitchen wallpaper with a simple repeat pattern can add additional character to a room with plenty of period features. 

When choosing a country kitchen wallpaper, designer Elizabeth Ockford suggests that you bear in mind that the kitchen is the space ‘where the outside and inside of the house meet – be that fruit and vegetables or flowers coming in from the garden, or where the family and pets gather to cozy up after a country walk or over a long lunch. And wallpaper in that room can reflect that, in color and subject matter.'

In Ockford's Cleo wallpaper, you get a large variety of common or garden bugs, delicately drawn onto clean-colored grounds.

13. Choose small patterns for a pretty country kitchen

This pretty blue pattern offers an abundance of country character without making the small space feel boxy.

‘Small pattern wallpapers can look great in kitchens,’ says Daniel Slowik, Associate Design Director for Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler. ‘There are likely to be large areas of joinery where large patterns would be wasted. Small patterns in bright colors lift the space.’

Find this Windsong wallpaper at Jane Churchill.

14. Choose an Art Deco print for a country twist

Perfect for country homeowners whose tastes span both traditional and contemporary interior trends, this stunning Art Deco-inspired paper bridges the gap. It promises to add plenty of character, adding a contemporary feel to country schemes.

Find the aptly named Amazing wallpaper from Tapetenfabrik Rasch.

15. Create an immersive space

Wrapping the entire kitchen with country wallpaper will create an immersive, embracing space. Feel free to play with expectations when it comes to patterns. Here, a Chinoiserie print matches beautifully with the pale blue of the range cooker, putting a fresh perspective on country kitchen wallpaper. 

‘For country kitchens, I also generally try and choose smaller scale prints so it acts as a quiet backdrop,' shares Henriette Von Stockhausen, Creative Director of VSP Interiors. 

'I often use Howe Bourne Street’s wallpapers as they have a real country feel without being too staid, and there are some great colorways! Together with curtains, art, and rugs, wallpaper helps to avoid the cold functional look that kitchens tend to have and transforms it into a more lived-in room.’

16. Play with an intricate but neutral pattern

An intricate pattern can add character to a kitchen wall, and the natural tone featured here prevents the wallpaper from overwhelming the space while complementing the rustic floorboards and cabinetry.

Photography Melsetter collection, Morris & Co

17. Channel the wildlife

Images of nature and birdlife instantly evoke a sense of the countryside, which is why they are so popular in country style wallpaper patterns. Check the pattern repeat before your buy, to minimise wastage when lining rolls up. 

For example, this particular design by Farrow & Ball has a pattern repeat every 61cm (or 24 inches). Fortunately, many wallpaper websites have specially designed calculators to help you work this out, or they also have in house experts on hand to advise. 

18. Head for the coast

‘Neutral colors have often featured in kitchens,’ says Fiona Howard, British textile designer. ‘However, a wall in a tomato orange, a leaf green or a pretty sky blue can lift  the mood and character of the kitchen,’ she adds. 

Fiona Howard’s Harbour wallpaper comes in three colorways to suit different schemes – including this classic combination of blue and white. 

Better yet, all of her wallpapers are designed by hand and printed using environmentally friendly inks, and for every roll of wallpaper sold a tree is planted in conjunction with One Tree Planted.

19. Go back to nature

Many traditional fabric patterns have been redesigned to work for wallpapers too, so it is easier than ever to achieve a classic look. 

This whimsical Baroque design from Little Greene was uncovered by the National Trust, hiding beneath wall-hung tapestries at Erddig in Wales, United Kingdom. It has now been reimagined into a classic-contemporary wallpaper design.

20. Be bold

If you want to make a real impact with country kitchen wallpaper, why not cover a whole wall in a bold pattern? This design idea can help brighten up a cozy nook or small dining area in a corner. Just be sure to use colors featured elsewhere in the space for a cohesive look, rather than a clashing one. 

21. Look on the bright side

Fresh and fruity tones can brighten up even the darkest of kitchens – just be sure to choose a wallpaper with a wipe-down finish, or ask your decorator to apply Decorator's Varnish for added protection. 

Most brands will highlight if their designs are suitable for use in a kitchen, so keep a look out for phrases such as ‘wipe down’, ‘washable’, and ‘scrubbable’ in your search. 

Pearl Lowe collection, Woodchip & Magnolia

22. Try a ditsy print

A mini or ditsy country kitchen wallpaper print will always create a feminine and country feel, especially a floral design.

It is best to avoid applying wallpaper directly behind a hob or a kettle, otherwise you may run the risk of it peeling prematurely. But to create a quaint and quintessential country kitchen, place your wallpaper behind shelves, or line the back of dressers.

 ‘A line of herbs looks wonderful placed in front of wallpaper, and I think pictures always look more interesting hung on wallpaper too,’ says British textile designer Fiona Howard. 

Design by Sandberg 

23. Treat wallpaper as art

Who needs artwork with a wallpaper pattern like this? The large format design echoes the look of a gallery wall in this particular kitchen, and the tree design brings a sense of the outdoors inside. 

If possible, look out for wallpapers which are ‘paste to wall’, for easier application. 

Caspian collection, Sanderson.

24. Zone with a feature wall

‘Wallpaper can be an unexpected design note in a kitchen adding interest and a certain softness against the hard surfaces,’ says Patrick O’Donnell, Farrow & Ball Brand Ambassador. 

‘Your design choice can be discreet and delicate, or more dramatic like the large scale Hegemone. You can even zone an area within your kitchens, such as the dining area illustrated with our rhythmic pastoral design Gable – perfect for more Rural kitchens as it echoes of farm and fields,’ he adds. 

Room by Farrow & Ball.

25. Pick an archive print

An archive print will convey a vintage look that's perfectly suited to a country setting. This Brooke House Cinder pattern from Little Greene has a classic design to complement the traditional style of the kitchen. 

Creating a feature wall around the mantlepiece helps to elevate the country feel even further. 

What country wallpaper designs look best in a kitchen?

Country-style wallpaper designs for kitchens will always be a classic choice, and with many of us spending more time at home these days, the idea of creating a warm and welcoming kitchen is more prevalent than ever. Look out for traditional patterns in alternative or bold colorways for a modern twist on a classic design. 

'Country-style wallpapers add a rustic-chic look to any kitchen or cooking area,' says Amy Stansfield, Content Creator at Wallsauce. 'We're seeing kitchen wallpapers that have vintage designs inspired by William Morris gaining in popularity. For a typical country kitchen, another trend is faux wood panel wallpaper in off-white, navy or natural wooden tones.

'When selecting country wallpaper ideas for kitchens, I recommend sticking to mostly organic motifs, such as florals or greenery,' says Lisa Rickert, Creative Director and CEO of Jolie Home. 'These look especially great with cabinets painted green, blue or a soft neutral. Mid to large scale patterns tend to work best, since smaller scale designs can feel busy or overwhelming to the eye.'

Is kitchen wallpaper in style? What country designs are on trend?

Natural, earthy tones tend to be the best color schemes for country kitchen wallpaper – so bear this in mind when choosing a wallpaper design. Make sure at least one color in the pattern matches or complements the tones in the rest of your kitchen to ensure it won’t end up clashing with your scheme.

Joe Pesci has sold his waterfront home on the Jersey Shore for the original asking price of $6.5 million. 

The New Jersey native is best known as an actor who collaborated with Robert De Niro and Martin Scorsese in titles such as Goodfellas, Casino, Raging Bull, and The Irishman. He originally listed his home in 2019 after deciding to relocate to California to live amongst his peers.

Situated on the seven-mile-long barrier island in the Lavallette section of the Shore, the 7,200-square-foot home boasts a waterfront pool, spa, and a pier that leads onto the ocean. The sale was the most expensive in the area – making it one of the most notable properties in New Jersey – and one of the world’s best homes. 

With its distinct free-standing curved staircase and its light and airy palette, the entrance hall serves as a host of entryway ideas that set the tone for the entire home. 

The mansion boasts an open floor plan that ensures the rooms feel spacious – whilst creating a space to accommodate large parties that can spill out to the spacious pool terrace at the water’s edge. These white-hued open spaces also frame the bay, whose blues create a contrast with the home’s neutral scheme. 

The large eat-in kitchen is a further source of kitchen ideas, complete with an island for catering large meals for dinner guests. This space leads to the dining room that is encircled by glass doors and leads to the pool terrace and bay. 

Beyond these living spaces, Joe Pesci’s mansion boasts a media room with walls decorated with film posters – in a nod to his career on the silver screen. Meanwhile, the upper level, which can also be reached by elevator, has eight bedrooms, eight bathrooms, and an office. These rooms all have access to upper terraces that overlook the ocean. 

While these upper terraces act as the perfect party place, there remains an additional party room next to the pool and spa – including a separate kitchen for casual entertaining.

This exterior space also offers a host of oceanic garden and swimming pool ideas through its infinity-style feature that offers a sense of serenity whilst overlooking the Atlantic.

The Pesci listing was held and sold by Michael Puccio of RE/MAX Central, North Manalapan, New Jersey. Photos courtesy of TopTenRealEstateDeals.com. 

Plump, voluptuous, and with curves in all the right places – we’re talking about furniture trends, of course. 

After many months stuck indoors and using our homes as a place of both work and play, comfort has become key. As a result, we’re seeing furniture tend towards the curvaceous, with full-fat silhouettes inviting us to sink into their cocooning clutches. 

Sofa.com’s upholstered furniture collection knows that getting cosy is cooler than ever, and is full of shapely forms, undulating contours and bouncy surfaces, all wrapped up in a wide range of high quality fabrics.

We took a look at Sofa.com's range, and discovered a wealth of full-figured furniture inspiration for all areas of your home to create a luxurious, welcoming and indulgent interior, from huggable dining chairs to perfectly squashy sofas.

Find out how to bring the cocooning trend into your own home with the help of Sofa.com’s beautifully handcrafted collection.

1. Get supportive comfort for the whole family

Curvaceous seating doesn’t just look good, it feels good too. The half moon-shaped armrests and back of the Cohen Modular Sofa not only add a contemporary twist to a minimal, modern silhouette, but also provide additional lumbar support. This makes it perfect for providing maximum comfort while sitting upright on its low-rise seat, as well as for reclining. 

Want to fully kick back? Add an extra unit to create an L-shaped layout, and create more room to either stretch out solo, or design a comfortable relaxation space for the whole family. The Cohen’s modular nature means you can add more units over time as the family – or indeed your home – grows. 

2. Use cocooning shapes to create an inviting dining space

Who needs blankets this autumn when you can wrap yourself up in your furniture? ‘Cocooning’ is one of the most coveted furniture design trends of the moment, with shapes that arc around the seat – and give us a bear hug from behind – becoming increasingly popular. 

This trend isn’t confined to the living room either: the Coco Dining Chair, with its fully upholstered curving frame and luxurious blind button back, allows you to fully unwind at dinner time. This contemporary approach to dining furniture is a great way to bring a new energy to your social spaces, one of relaxation and comfort which encourages friends and family to come together. 

3. Get tactile with boucle 

How a seat feels isn’t just about the shape, but about the material you run your fingers over as you settle in for the evening. Sofa.com offers more than 100 fabric options in which to upholster your favourite pieces, including an on-trend addition in its new Luxe Bouclé. The super soft, twisted wool style is having a real interiors moment, and here its cosiness is amplified by the undulating lines and plump cushioning of the Ginger Armchair. 

4. Plump up classic seating styles 

Getting comfortable in 2021 doesn’t mean you need to forget everything you love about classical styles – just consider giving them a little extra squish. The wing back gets a contemporary update in the Ernest Armchair, which takes the enduring silhouette and adds an extra layer of cushioning, with buttoned details creating rolling hills of plushness. Choose between wooden legs or a swivel base for the ultimate home office desk chair. 

5. Update Art Deco with a little bounce

The Art Deco period has made its presence felt in contemporary design for years now, for good reason – and almost a century after its emergence, we’re really starting to get comfortable with it. This season, embrace all its bounciest bits, from concaving armchairs to luxurious fluting details. The Harper Footstool not only builds on the comfort of its sister armchair, but offers a squashier, more contemporary take on these 1930s style insignias. Sumptuous fabrics like velvet are the perfect choice for this silhouette, instantly creating a sense of luxury and indulgence at home. 

6.  Keep comfortable with extra cushioning

From scattering them on the sofa to stacking up pillows on the bed, one cushion is never enough. The Bowie Sofa knows this too – layering up cushioning is the perfect way to add softness to an angular seating shape, and its boxy silhouette style gets not only a feathered seat base, but an additional bolster to support you however you need it. 

If you’re keen to maintain some straight lines in your furniture design choices, deep-seated comfort is the perfect way to introduce the cocooning trend into your home, and create a space dedicated to cosiness. 

To bring the cocooning trend into your home, discover curvy furniture designs for every interior at Sofa.com.

For antique furniture enthusiasts, 1stDibs changed the shopping game 21 years ago. To honor its 21st anniversary the online antique marketplace has curated a list of the most beautiful 21 objects currently on the website to celebrate the brand's history. 

1stDibs was launched by Founder Michael Bruno at the start of the millennium. It aimed to bring the magic of the Paris flea markets online and revolutionized interior design for many. A great example of what he has achieved is in Michael Bruno's New York home – a historic property that makes a wonderful backdrop for typical 1stDibs' finds.

The brand has evolved over the last two decades, starting as a marketplace focusing on furniture, it has branched out to include jewelry, fashion, and fine art. In 2016, it made a dramatic change and even started selling new and custom designs alongside its antique pieces. 

From a small-knit community of sellers, The brand now hosts pieces from over 4,200 sellers around the world. 

 1stDibs 21 objects  

To document this history, 1stDibs has tapped its network of sellers, artists, and curators to create a list of 21 objects – 1st21. 'To mark each year from our founding to today, we looked inward at our own milestones and outward to some of the notable happenings that inspired and shaped the global design community,' explains Karen Silveira, Creative Director at 1stDibs. 

'Our 21st anniversary gave us the opportunity to appreciate 21 stellar objects currently available on the site across the spectrum of collecting categories: from a 150-million-year-old fossilized dragonfly to a Tiffany Studios luminous dragonfly chandelier from the turn of the last century,' adds Tony Freund, Editorial Director at 1stDibs.

As well as a lovely retrospective, we’ll be using this list as the ultimate cheat sheet for the iconic design pieces we’re looking to collect for our homes.

You can view the full list of 21 objects in the 1st21 campaign on the website. But, here are just a few of the objects that have already captured our attention.

1. 2001 - Georges Jacob Louis XVI-Style Armchair, ca. 1775-95

No other piece of furniture could sum up the first year of 1stDibs as well as the Georges Jacob Louis XVI-Style Armchair. This chair sold as a pair reupholstered in vintage fabric epitomizes the Parisian roots of the company. 

The bergère is a perfect example of a piece of antique furniture that fits seamlessly into living room ideas. 

The chair was designed in the 18th century and focused on comfort and relaxation. It features ample lines and padding. It is a chair that has been created to be moved about and to lounge in. 

‘French antiques always work and always look beautiful. Those pieces help places remain classic. And they pair well with modern sensibilities because they’re comfortable,’ explains Melissa Morgan, M Interiors. 

‘Louis XVI bergères and fauteuils are comfortable because they’re human scale. They don’t take up a lot of space on a floor plan.’

 2. 2002 - Tiffany Studios Dragonfly Chandelier, ca.1900 

This beautiful Tiffany studios Dragonfly Chandelier is one of many treasures by Louis Comfort Tiffany, a leader of the Art Nouveau movement, on 1stDibs. The award-winning chandelier is actually attributed to his colleague Clara Driscoll who shared his artistic vision.

The stunning item perfectly sums up 2002, as that was the year that the Metropolitan Museum of Art opened a permanent exhibition devoted to the world of Louis Comfort Tiffany. This piece could easily sit in a museum but would look lovely as an accent to existing living room lighting ideas.  

 3. 2003 - Art Deco Railing from NYC’s Waldorf Astoria, 1930

2003 marked the year that 1stDibs introduced New York sellers onto its website. What better way to mark the East Coast expansion than with an item that sums up a key piece of New York history. 

This Art Deco railing comes from the Starlight Lounge in the Waldorf Astoria hotel. The supper club was named for its retractable roof, so guests could sit under the night sky listening to jazz greats such as Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald. 

The railing is a testament to the power an antique can have when added to your staircase ideas. Every time you pass it, it becomes a magical talisman transporting you to the roaring '20s in New York’s heyday.

 4. 2004 - Slim Aarons Poolside Gossip, 1970

Since its early days 1stDibs has championed mid-century design and California modernism. In 2004 the marketplace cemented this connection by expanding to the West Coast of the US. 

What better way to sum this historic moment up than with Slim Aarons Poolside Gossip photograph print? The print embodies the effortless glamor of the '70s, and will look stunning hung above a mantlepiece. Alternatively, it is the perfect starting point for brainstorming dining room ideas for your next soiree. 

 5. 2014 - Faye Toogood Roly-Poly Chair

The iconic Roly-Poly chair was selected to embody 2014, the same year that Faye Toogood launched the collection at Salone di Mobile. Since its launch, the pieces have become a favorite among collectors. 

Faye Toogood said of her 2014 collection that it ‘reflects my journey of becoming a mother and seeing the world through the eyes of a child.’

This selection of the chair celebrates not just this iconic collection but highlights the important role of female makers and artists on the platform. Faye Toogood is just one of the notable female makers with a powerful presence on the website. 

We don't imagine that these 21 objects will be on the website for long. However, as Tony Freund, Director of Fine Art at 1stDibs points out, treasures appear on the website all the time. 

'We never know what remarkable item one of our eagle-eyed dealers is going to put up for sale on 1stDib, opening a new world of discovery, knowledge, and appreciation for us.'

And Just Like That, John Corbett listed his vintage-inspired Californian condo – for an asking price of $1.31 million. The actor – who is best known for his role as Aidan Shaw, Carrie Bradshaw’s fiancé in Sex and the City – alongside his roles in My Big Fat Greek Wedding and To All The Boys, resides in an iconic high rise just off the Sunset Strip. The building is a hive of celebrities who congregate beside its rooftop pool, complete with sun-drenched loungers and a view of the city’s skyline.

Beyond its quintessentially Californian exteriors, the glamorous interiors further epitomize the condo’s location – with a scheme that combines Hollywood’s golden age with vintage Las Vegas allure. These luxe furnishings and audacious palette mean John’s apartment is among the most exciting properties listed in Los Angeles – and one of the world’s best homes. 

Despite its heritage dating back to the mid-1960s, the condo’s entire 1,607 square feet pay homage to the allure of the roaring 20s, kissed with kaleidoscopic vintage posters and textured furnishings that are fueling our black living room ideas. 

Beyond the sumptuously-toned living area, the kitchen maintains the rich color scheme through its dark wooden cabinets and black backsplash that create a juxtaposition with the coral rug. 

Meanwhile, the master suite is an unrivaled source of inspiration for our luxury bedroom ideas – enveloped in mirrors and trimmed with a golden fringe, the room encapsulates the same vintage Hollywood aesthetic that is ever-present throughout the condo, from the bathroom to the private terrace. 

This terrace showcases a south-facing panoramic view of Los Angeles’s skyscrapers – offering a glorious vision of the metropolis by day – and a sparkling vision once night falls above the city. 

Alongside its statement view, the terrace elevates our south-facing garden ideas to new heights through its modern outdoor furnishings that blur the lines between the interior and exterior spaces to celebrate a contemporary garden trend.  

The complex, at 1100 Alta Loma Road, boasts the amenities and security of a boutique hotel – including a modern gym, private tennis court, and rooftop deck – all moments away from the ‘hottest spots in Hollywood.’ Justin Alexander of Compass currently holds the listing. 

Bedroom chandelier ideas will inject timeless decadence into your night-time retreat and turn any simple sleep space into a glamorous boudoir.

As the grand duchess of bedroom ideas, chandeliers are typified as lighting fixtures that hold lamps on a number of branches, although these individual bulbs (or, originally, candles) can often be concealed by elaborate caging. 

While most commonly thought of as a statement feature for communal spaces, there is no reason why your bedroom doesn’t deserve such an indulgence. 

‘A bedroom is a great room to add a chandelier to, creating serious wow-factor,’ says Owen Pacey, Founder of Renaissance London. ‘A great way to level up your bedroom is with a grand, statement chandelier, whether that’s an ornate, rococo-style, gilt piece or a contemporary sputnik globe.’ 

Bedroom chandelier ideas 

Chandeliers come in all shapes, sizes and styles so you’ll need to be sure which variation works best for the room.

Whether you’re looking for bedroom lighting ideas that channel mid-century modernism or the mirrored halls of Versailles, we’ve brought together some spectacular chandelier inspiration and tips from the experts to help you choose the right one. Get ready for that lightbulb moment.

1. Keep it classic with crystal 

‘Bring a refined touch to the bedroom with a crystal chandelier taking centre stage above the bed,’ suggests Natalie Mann, New Product Development Co-ordinator for Iconic Lights. 

Crystal is a sublime choice for a chandelier, with both aesthetic and functional benefits that are great for bedroom ceiling light ideas. As well as creating a twinkling centrepiece for the room, crystal prisms have been traditionally used in chandeliers to refract light around the room and enhance impact. 

‘This elaborate, intricate, and thoughtful design adds a touch of glamour and luxury to the room and creates an instant wow-factor’, says Mann of this crystal globe chandelier.

‘Often associated with the Gatsby era, the timeless design features an assortment of crystals that distribute the light in a mesmerising fashion, creating a soft and ambient glow.’ 

2. Think carefully about scale – but don’t be afraid to go big 

Thought chandeliers were only for stately homes? Think again.

‘You can use a chandelier in any space, no matter how big or small,’ says Pacey, listing it as one of his key bedroom lighting tips. ‘Keep chandelier designs in proportion to the area. For example, if your bedroom is large, pendant lights need to be sized up or even used in clusters.’

While considering the size of your room is important, don’t be put off playing with scale to make a statement. ‘In smaller bedrooms too, you can create a real impact by using an oversized chandelier, or perhaps a flush-style ceiling lamp where ceilings are lower.’ 

3. Stay circular with an empire chandelier 

When thinking about how to plan bedroom lighting, consider your room's architecture.

‘Choosing the style of chandelier for a room will depend on the overall interior design and the style that suits the architecture of the property,’ says interior designer Jenny Allan.

‘However, in terms of shape, usually circular chandeliers work better than rectangular ones in a bedroom, as the curves soften the angles of the bed.’ 

Chandeliers are most commonly found with a rounded structure so that they can be enjoyed from any angle, but if you really want to get curvaceous, choose an empire chandelier. This French-originating style is not only based around a core hoop, but sees chains of crystal beads draped around it, pulled into curves by gravity. 

4. Choose a contemporary bedroom chandelier

Glistening clear crystals are effortlessly elegant, but a more contemporary approach might suit your decorative style more. This design has a distinct mid-century feel (and you can find matching designs like this for bedroom wall lighting ideas, too). 

5. Channel Art Deco elegance with a tiered chandelier 

The chandelier has hundreds, if not thousands of years of history, but for some 20th century inspiration, put the spotlight on Art Deco. 

As a design era that combined both simplicity and the spectacular, tiered chandeliers channel the period at its most glamorous. You can go all out with an eleven-tier, diamond-shaped arrangement like this one, styled against dramatic dark tones, or keep things a little simpler with a three-tiered fixture. 

6. Champion sustainability with an antique chandelier 

‘The aesthetic value of choosing antique lighting is immeasurable,’ says Pacey. ‘Choosing such a piece yourself gives a home personality and life.’

Selecting an antique, or even vintage, chandelier not only makes your lighting fixture unique, but going second hand is good for the planet too. ‘They have such character and a history which is irreplaceable, and of course it has the added benefit of being sustainable.’

This ornate, candle-style crystal chandelier delves into the past to complement its surroundings in a historic farmhouse-style home. 

7. Swap crystals for modern mattes

Of course, not every chandelier has to be dripping in crystals. This chandelier plays with tradition by employing a classic empire design, but switching glistening glass for opaque, matte beads that resemble white marble.

Hanging above a velvet daybed, this modern take on the chandelier is at the centre of a scheme that updates traditional notions of luxury bedroom ideas.

8. Use a chandelier as part of a maximalist scheme

Forget subtlety, it's time to get extra. Maximalism is in and that is great news for chandelier-lovers. Your bedroom's patterned walls might already be throwing a party with its patterned textiles, but throw in an ornate chandelier at the heart of an all-out scheme and you'll have the shindig of the century.  

This colourful guest bedroom idea pairs a bronze chandelier and its blue crystal beads with a Rococo-style yellow wallpaper, blue upholstered headboard and red throw cushions. The result is quite the soirée. 

9. Get quirky with a sputnik chandelier 

The mid-century space race didn’t just put men on the moon, it also gave birth to a whole new type of chandelier.

Inspired by the funky shape of the first ever earth-orbiting satellite, sputnik chandeliers commonly feature straight branches with globe-like bulbs at the end, often held at differing lengths and asymmetrical angles. An even quirkier example than most, this chandelier features multicolored glass lampshades for an arty feel in this modern master bedroom idea.

10. Go boho with natural elements 

How do you take a chandelier to the beach? Well, it might be hard to find somewhere to hang it, but it is possible to bring in relaxed natural elements into such a lighting scheme for a bohemian vibe.

In this bohemian bedroom idea, rustic textures lead the scheme from the four poster bed to the woven armchair, while the chandelier completes the sea-breeze vibe by switching a crystal-beaded cage for netted fabric. 

How do you choose a chandelier for a bedroom? 

When choosing a chandelier, it really comes down to three things: size, style and material. Do your research and get to know whether you want an empire or a sputnik, and you’ll then be able to hone in more on the specifics of your style. 

‘Crystal chandeliers work well if you are looking to create a more delicate feminine interior while simple, less ornate options give a more contemporary feel,’ explains Allan. 

Consider the size of the bedroom too. If you want the chandelier to be a detail in the room, keep it at scale with other design elements. If you intend for it to make a room-leading impact, go big. 

Can I put a chandelier in my bedroom? 

Absolutely. It may be that you need to go a little smaller in the bedroom than you would in a large reception room, but it’s entirely possible to make them look great and in-keeping with your style.

‘Bedroom chandeliers should be placed typically at the bottom of the bed or centrally in the room,’ says Allan. ‘It is important that they are not too oversized in that they overpower the space but they do need to be a certain size to give impact. Typically we would go for a light with a 50-60cm diameter.'

Been dreaming of a sumptuous, decadent black bathroom, but never quite dared? The new Bert & May x Anthropologie Noir tile makes it super-easy to take the leap.

Scrolling through the #darkinteriors hashtag on Instagram uncovers more than 180,000 images of dark and luxurious interiors since November 2020, featuring trends such as powerful jewel tones and moody wallpapered feature walls. Search interest for ‘dark bathrooms’ was almost three times the amount of searches for the same period (+192%). 

See: Bathroom ideas – stylish decor ideas for all bathrooms

The Bert & May x Anthropologie partnership started in 2018 with a Bert & May pop-up in the Anthropologie Kings Road (London) store and a limited tile range. The new Anthropologie Noir colorway is a fresh take on the original Anthropologie Gold.

The opulent Noir tile contrasts with the raw washed-out natural pigment of the charcoal black background against flashes of gold octagonal shapes that hint at bold glamour. Lending itself well to schemes that are soft and tactile, or sharpened up with clean contemporary lines the Noir is a versatile tile that looks beautiful in different lights and settings.

See: Bathroom trends 2021 – 19 inspiring new looks for your bathroom

The gothic direction in bathrooms has been inspired by on-trend paint brands. Keeping the look modern and fresh by opting for textured or patterned tiles is a great idea.

Take inspiration from the team and pair yours with black painted walls softened with opulent accessories, such as a gold-framed mirror, or keep things industrial and team with concrete sanitaryware and matte black furnishings.

• See: Tile trends 2021 – from Art Deco to terrazzo to outdoor tiles

Inspired by the beautiful gold hints that run through the Anthropologie homeware style, the original Anthropologie Gold brought a softer, more delicate design to the Bert & May collection, with its gentle tessellations glinting against the natural pigment of the Brighton Stone backdrop.

The combination of Bert & May’s passion for artisan techniques and finding unique patterns that blur the lines between art and design, and the creativity that is at the core of the Anthropologie ethos has created a sophisticated but understated collection.

Will you dare to go back to black? We're already planning our move to the dark side...

Get worldwide shipping and shop the Noir tile at bertandmay.com. 

Fluting is a classic look in interior design that is enjoying a renaissance in modern home decor. It's a fantastic way to add texture to a room as well as giving a little nod to Art Deco glamour.

See: Interior design trends 2021 – the 20 top looks for the year ahead

And, while you might have seen it many times in architecture, the look is now becoming a key feature inside our homes, from kitchen cabinets and kitchen islands, to vanity units, shower doors, sinks and lighting.

Below, see how fluting has been used by five interior designers – and get inspired for your own fabulous fluting project.

What is fluting?

Fluting is a truly ancient technique used in architecture. Fluting is usually a series of shallow grooves that run across a surface, creating a pleasing play of light. Typically, this effect might have been used to make columns seem perfectly round, thinner and more elegant. 

Today, it is used for our interiors in all kinds of applications for exactly the same reasons – plus it's a useful way to add texture to an otherwise minimalist decorating scheme.

Helen Parker, deVOL's creative director, says fluting is 'tactile, traditional and a little different, with a certain decorative quality'. She adds: 'It has a charm, a character and a delightfully wholesome feel to it, it is certainly not a boring look but somehow retains a sense of simplicity and nostalgia. In these times of bolder interior decoration and less minimalism, it seems an easy way to include a little more texture and interest.'

1. Fluting to give a kitchen island that extra chic-shock

'I love texture,' muses design and renovation expert Laura Butler-Madden. 'In all of my designs I like to keep color palettes fairly serene and incorporate nature and texture wherever I can to add interest and depth. 

'Fluting is something I have always loved; when we started working with Blakes London on the kitchen designs, it was something we were really keen to use on the island. We considered a natural wood fluting initially, but I really wanted the stunning wooden flooring from Trunk to be able to shine, so I chose a stunning gloss finish in the same color paint (Holland Park) from Mylands that we used for the main cabinetry. I love the contrast of the textures, as well as the gloss paint contrasting with the matt finish on the cabinetry.'

She adds: 'I’m not generally very trend-led with my design work – I prefer to create spaces that are elegant and timeless. I think that fluting will be popular for many years to come.'

See: Kitchen island ideas – guaranteed to make a statement

The fluting in the kitchen island above, designed by Australian Maek Residences, makes a wonderful contrast to the black elsewhere in the kitchen, and is the perfect backdrop for the smooth curves of the pale wood furniture. 

Photo by @jody_darcy; styling by @tatulli_designstudio; furniture and accessories by @mobilia_ and @loamaustralia.

• See: Kitchen island ideas – guaranteed to make a statement
  

2. Fluted wall divides and doors for light-flooded privacy

Interior design studio Day True uses fluting to great effect in dividers and glass panelling.

'Fluting texture is a detail we have been seeing more and more in interiors,' says Hayley Robson, creative director, Day True. 'We usually see it as vertical shallow grooves running along a surface, which adds texture and promotes a play of light. It takes inspiration from architecture that dates back to ancient times. In kitchens we use fluted glass in cabinet doors (below) and in bespoke feature elements such as glass divides (above). 

'In bathrooms we have seen fluted details in furniture and basins, and also in the form of shower screens (below). We love to use fluted panels as wall features to create a dramatic backdrop, the vertical pattern creates the perfect way to hide a join or conceal a door.'

3. Fluting on kitchen cabinetry to create a statement

How fabulous is this statement yet serene green fluted kitchen? Victoria Spencer-Eves of VEVES interior design says: 'Fluting is a fantastic way to add texture and depth to an interior, without adding an obvious pattern or ornamentation which could date quickly. For our project, The Art House, we applied fluting to the lower kitchen doors, which balanced out the double height space. Our clients love the finish; it's incredibly tactile.  

'When creating something bespoke, it's important to calculate the spacing between the flutes, so you don't end up on a half flute between doors, so it can take some mathematics!'

She adds: 'Textural finishes have always been the mainstay of our design work, which is largely inspired by architecture and rooted in minimalism. They invite you to touch them, creating a direct interaction between the piece and the owner, which really appeals to us as humans, I think.'

See: Kitchen cabinet ideas – the materials, styles, colors and trends to know

4. Fluted vanity unit – for elegance and texture in a bathroom

We're not sure why every home doesn't have a blush pink vanity unit after seeing this beautiful design by Ham Interiors (above).

'We love using fluted pieces in our schemes, they add great texture and in the right finish they can be used in both contemporary and traditional schemes,' says Katie Cox, interior designer at Ham Interiors, who created the look with her client @karitacole.

She continues: 'The vanity unit shown is one we make as part of our Studio Ham collection, we were initially inspired by our favourite Swedish antiques where a reeded finish often adds great character and detail to very simple pieces of furniture.'

Below, New York-based Michelle Gerson Interiors has been more ambitious in the bathroom (below) with a wide vanity unit with drawers and cabinetry cut into the fluting. Cabinetry by @ciuffocabinetry; photo by @marcoriccastudio.

5. Use fluting as a detail only

Fluting can just be a detail within a larger space – including it adds texture and interest and will make any room look more expensively decorated. This kitchen is by Bayswater Interiors; design @lindyegalloway; photography, @chadmellon.

6. Add fluting in furnishings

We love the fluting in the banquette of this dining space by California-based Dart Studio. Part of a wider renovation to make the kitchen and dining room a more sociable, open-plan space, the fluted seating area is inviting and restaurant-smart.

7. Fluting for a hotel-style headboard

It's safe to say that Russian interior design agency Quadro Room is a fan of fluting, using it to great effect in their bedroom designs as headboards. The fluting, whether used vertically to create the impression of grandeur, or horizontally for a hotel-style luxury feel, is fixed to the wall behind the bed so that is more of an installation than a piece of furniture.

8. Art Deco fluted lighting

Fluted lighting inspired by the glamour of the Art Deco era is really having a moment.

Emily Bizley, of Studio Bizley, says: 'The current trend for fluting and reeding is a bit of a nod to the elegance of a bygone age ('30s Art Deco) but its current popularity is made possible by modern manufacturing techniques like CNC cutting – say, for fluting and reeding used to articulate surfaces on joinery. It is a great way of adding texture to a scheme – the repetitive lines and curves allowing light to play over the surface.'

She continues: 'In the bathroom above, the wall lights, made of individual glass rods, and reeded glass on the cabinet echo one another and add a layer of fine straight lines to a bathroom which includes a very monolithic solid ceramic bath and basin, as well as the swirly organic surface of the Arabescato marble. The aim is to create a balance and a harmony between these things. The reeded glass gives a bit of finesse and restraint.'

9. Fluting as walls

Fluting as a wall material can be used in a number of intriguing ways. Above, in this dining room designed by Day True, it is creating definition in an open-plan space, creating an architectural foil to the bank of windows on the adjacent wall and – no doubt – providing acoustic insulation.

Below, open fluting is used to divide a galleried open-plan space by London-based Studio Clement from an upper hallway. The fluting is open at the back, allowing strips of daylight to filter through into the upper floor; from below, it creates architectural interest, warmth and texture. Photography by Eduard Hueber.

Located in the Mira Loma neighborhood of San Francisco, this 1930s built home has an Art Deco appearance, typical to the surrounding homes in the area.

It was the fairytale book aesthetic that really drew the owners in when looking for their first home, and it is easy to see why they adore it so much. In order to get the design just right, the owners hired interior designer Leo Cesareo. A decision that certainly did not regret.

Leo is a San Francisco based Artist and Designer that has worked with some of the design world's premiere interior designers, including Steven Volpe, Jay Jeffers and Lauren Geremia.

A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, Leo's approach to space and composition draws from his formal education in the visual arts. He strives to create unique interiors that are tailor-made for the contemporary individual and household.

We speak to Leo Cesareo about the design project.

The house is a small Art Deco row house – three bedrooms and two baths – and because the house isn't big, we really focused on the details to make the space interesting and unique. 

My clients, Anthony and Garrett are newlywed, and has this is their first home together, we knew it had to be special from the get-go. They both have a relaxed, casual demeanour, and spend a lot of time at home, so it was important to make their new home together, a place to entertain that truly reflected their style and outlook on life.

• See some of the world's best homes – beautiful properties from around the globe

This is their first home together, so we knew we had to get it right. They had been living in it for a few months before they reached out to me. 

The home was in pretty good shape but it was missing the flare for the dramatic that my client Anthony wanted. The kitchen and master bathroom were dated and in need of a new design direction. 

My client Anthony knew early on what he wanted to achieve with the remodel. We worked together to bring drama and a touch of whimsy to their otherwise drab interiors. We were able to come up with a design that was respectful of the age of the home and yet modern and eclectic. 

On the main level, we added architectural elements such as a beautiful new fireplace to their living room and arches in their hallway. It was a big undertaking and really put a dent in our budget, but it's such a great addition to the living room that it really was the right call. 

To this day, my client still sends me pictures of them enjoying a book next to the fire on a cold and rainy day. It makes me happy to know that it was worth all the trouble.

• See: Design house – This classic home in Indiana has been given a modern monochrome update

For us it was important that we created a scheme that the owners would cherish forever, so for wow-factor we had the kitchen cabinets refinished in a luxurious black motif, installed new brass hardware, and installed desirable quartzite countertops and backsplashes throughout.

The hood was customized with decorative wood slats, custom brass shelving and a much needed breakfast banquette – with storage – that ended up stealing the show. 

Throughout the rest of the home we added new decorative lighting, hardware, furnishings, accessories and art. 

In the master bedroom we added arched bookshelves and a custom four poster bed. We expanded their original master bath by about 60 square foot. This allowed us to add a comfortably sized walk in shower and a much needed double vanity to their master suite. 

We used quartzite countertops in the kitchen and ceramic tile and quartz in the master bath for durability. We had a limited budget so we had to make sure that our selection of materials would leave an impact. 

For the hardware and lighting fixtures throughout we chose aged brass for a little art deco glamor, and for the plumbing fixtures we chose a matte black finish to help tie the space to the present. 

In terms of sourcing items for this project, we wanted to keep it local. My friends at Stone Fleury helped us with the furnishings, Wayfair came through in a big way, when we were in a pinch. 

Our vision for the furnishings and decoration was to create an elegant space that was dexterous enough for lounging and entertaining. 

My clients have an elderly dog, so all their furniture choices had to be durable first, and comfortable second. 

The one request my client's husband had was that he get a recliner and we managed to find a great option that was custom upholstered to match the living room. 

Many of the other pieces and accessories were sourced at vintage shops and the Alameda Flea Market, (always a great local source for one of a kind treasures). I designed their custom banquette with a local woodworker and upholsterer as well. 

Frustratingly, this project took twice as long as originally expected. This was due to notoriously tough permitting issues with the city of San Francisco, as well as some unexpected setbacks we discovered along the way, which in retrospect – and, for a house this old – should not have surprised anyone. 

We worked right into the lockdown in March 2020, and my clients had to do a lot of the finishing touches themselves because of it, but they absolutely love their new home and are thankful that we got started on it when we did, since everyone's spending so much time at home now. 

I am so proud of how this project turned out, and that I was able to transform their first house together into a warm and inviting space – one that is truly unique.

Photography / Liz Daly

Interior design / Leo Cesareo

Instagram is just one of the ways that we monitor lighting trends – and this year's most popular looks are as inspiring as ever. 

Lighting in your home is not only responsible for creating a specific ambience, but is also an easy way to make a design statement, which is where trend-watching comes in handy for discovering new designs. 

This year, however, it's not all about aesthetics – Claire Antsey, lighting buyer at Heal’s has researched thousands of Instagram posts for us to reveal which designs have been shining through on social media platforms, and top of the list is LED – eco-friendly lighting. Call it the Greta Thunberg effect, if you will – it's a welcome addition.

See the rest of the list below – including Claire's expert lighting advice.

1. Let there be... LED

LED lights (8,010,263 posts) take center stage on Instagram with over eight million posts featuring these eco-friendly lighting options. And, with a wide range of styles and colors on offer, you can tailor this lighting choice to suit your own style. 

Expert tip: LED lights are not only eco-friendly, they are wallet-friendly too with bulbs lasting up to 15 years. They are also a safe option for the home as they don't contain any toxic elements. 

• See: Living room lighting ideas – 16 ways to light your living space

2. Chandelier chic 

Chandeliers (2,948,840 posts) are a great choice if you who want to add some elegance to your home. Entry halls, staircases and even above dining tables are the perfect places to make this sophisticated addition.

Expert tip: Chandeliers don’t have to be old fashioned and exclusive to manor homes, you can find some great modern pieces that reflect your taste, including statement geometric pieces.

3. Neon brights

Not just for nightclubs, neon lights (2,145,021 posts) make a statement in any room. As the perfect mood lighting for dark rooms, they are also excellent for capturing showstopping Instagram shots.

Expert tip: From statement custom signs and wall mounts to small quirky table lamps, a neon light brings a sense of fun and personality to any room in an instant and makes for a great talking point. 

4. Table lights – in brights

Whether it’s for a bedside, coffee or a console, table lamps (338,330 posts)  are a staple non-committal piece. Opt for modern brights, like these beautiful Matthew Williamson-designed pieces, to give country classics a vibrant makeover.

Expert tip:  Table lamps look best in pairs and are a smart bedroom lighting idea. Nothing completes a bedroom more than matching bedside table lamps. 

5. Pendant pieces

Pendant lights (165,190 posts) are great statement pieces, and make a classic choice to hang above kitchen tables and islands. However, they also make a stylish statement in a home office or hallway, and can be mixed and matched for an interesting and eclectic display. 

Expert tip: Clustering pendants gives an effortlessly classy look and will add extra dimension to a room.

6. Desk lamps

Desk lamps (81,106 posts) have really come into their own since working from home became the new norm. Opt for a standard Pixar-shaped or Anglepoise for a timeless option. 

Expert tip: According to studies, cool light bulbs are best for studying and learning performance.

7. Architectural sconces

These beautiful wall-mounted Instagrammable lights are perfect in pairs or as stand-alone pieces. Architectural sconces (58,810 posts) add an ambient glow to any room

Expert tip: Sconces look amazing either side of your bed, and make great alternatives to bedside table lamps for that clean-lined look.

• See: Bathroom lighting ideas – brighten up your space with an efficient lighting scheme

8. Wall lights

zWall lights (48,715 posts) are an excellent way to both light up the room and fill wall space in a chic way that enhances your home decor theme. You can choose from orbs, geometric, industrial, cage, pendant, chandelier options and more to ensure the look gels with your interior style.

Expert tip: This Instagrammable lighting style looks great when synchronized throughout different rooms to create an organised look.

9. Floor show

Floor lights (8,101 posts) and lamps are the perfect finishing touch for any room and, with their freedom of movement, you can put it wherever you like. From tripod to rattan, these statement pieces will make a chic, warming finish to any room.

Expert tip: Floor lamps that have removable lampshades are great if you love to swap out seasonal colours; having a customizable lamp will give you complete design freedom.

10. Art Deco

Ever glamorous and enduring, Art Deco lights (6,453 posts) take you back in time, perfect for quirky individuals who love everything vintage. Gold leaf, chrome finishes, geometric shapes, orbs, and repetition to add detail are common traits of this ornamental style.

Expert tip: Art Deco lights come in many different styles; if you want a mix of contemporary and vintage, deco pendant lights are the perfect fit. 

With seemingly endless mountain views, ski slopes and sights from Wasatch-Cache National Forest to Thousand Oaks Trailhead, it is easy to see why the owners chose to settle down in Halladay, Utah.

Creating a space that the family could lay down roots meant hiring an interior designer that they could rely on to turn this house into a dream home. 

They hired interior designer Jessica Bennett of Alice Lane Interior Design, who would go on to completely transform the property – from top to bottom – which meant that the house is now unrecognisable to what it was before.

• See some of the world's best homes – beautiful properties from around the globe

The property

'The project was a remodel of a home the owners built 10-15 years ago – it was in dire need of an refresh,' says Jessica. 

'The finishes, trim, and cabinetry needed an update to give them new life, so we redesigned the main level spaces and reused as many existing cabinets and finishes as possible. The owner requested a space that was light and bright – and, most importantly, was comfortable for their children and grandchildren to relax in.' 

We speak to Jessica Bennett of Alice Lane Interior Design about the design project.

Hall

We dressed the walls with a soft grass cloth and filled in the grout on the stone with lighter brighter tone. 

The original fireplace mantle was replaced with a clean-lined cast stone surround, while the ornate stair balusters were replaced with a custom baluster designed with tidy lines. 

New art, lighting, and furniture made this space stylish and welcoming.

• Reese Witherspoon's house: 5 decorating tricks we’ve learnt from the actress

Home office

This space got a facelift with new paint. The built-ins were once a dark wood tone, now a soft shade of white. 

The homeowner’s favorite color is blue and requested this space to be colorful. We layered in blue upholstery and rug with pretty pastel tones. 

Finally, the new light is the jewelry of the space.

Living room

The original media cabinet was dark and heavy and didn’t allow for a large television. We designed an off white cabinet that layered the television over the built-ins and allowed for flexibility to switch out the electronics easily in the future. 

To achieve a textured look, we blended warm and cool tones with cozy textures in this room to create an inviting space for the family to entertain and hangout. This space can easily seat a large group comfortably for all the parties they host.

Kitchen

The original wood cabinets received a fresh coat of white paint and the dark painted island was lightened to a soft greige – thus breathing life into the kitchen. 

These brand-new Ralph Lauren pendants add the warmth that this space needed. 

Main bedroom

We designed a new fireplace surround and brightened the finishes in this space. 

The once dated furniture was exchanged for transitional furniture – with clean lines and sophisticated colors a must.

Main bathroom

We freshened up the bathroom with a beautiful white marble, a freestanding tub, and a new off white vanity. 

This room desperately needed an element of sparkle and intrigue, so we added in mirrors and statement lighting. 

Powder room

This was the room that started the whole remodel. The husband didn’t like the wallpaper and thought the whole scheme look dated. 

Taking this in to consideration, we updated the wallpaper, vanity, lighting, and tiles – in keeping with the contemporary finishes we used elsewhere.

Mud room / laundry room

Functionality was the driving force behind this redesign, so with this in mind, we updated all the cabinetry to ensure if was not only stylish, but practical, too. 

Our favorite detail is the mesh drying racks for sweaters and delicates.

Playroom

We knocked down the wall between the dining nook and the former guest bedroom, to create a playroom for the children to hang out in. 

It’s perfect because of the quick access to the kitchen – so the adults can keep an eye on the children while dinner cooks.

A color is a defining factor in this space, as well as storage, and we think we've nailed both. 

Photography / Nicole Hill Gerulat

Interior designer / Jessica Bennett of Alice Lane Interior Design

Browsing bathroom pictures for inspiration for your revamp? You're in the right place. 

These are some of our favorite bathroom ideas and they're the perfect starting point for designing a new bathroom scheme, whatever the size of your space or budget.

Bathroom pictures

1. A monochrome bathroom with plenty of pattern

The geometrical 3D pattern on the floor is by far the most contemporary element of this Drummonds bathroom and is also renowned for visually widening narrow rooms, an optical illusion that works wonders for this confined bathroom layout. 

Marble tiles tone in with the more traditional fittings but it still makes a powerful statement. The walls are paneled in refined Carrara marble, with the vein pattern beautifully book-matched in the center of the bath.

Suppliers for products – or similar – include: Drummonds; Minoli; Lapicida.

2. A bold monochrome bathroom with striking fittings

This luxurious master bathroom was created by architectural interior designer Louise Putman of Recreate Interiors, recreateinteriors.co.uk, who knocked two former children’s bedrooms together to create a spacious en-suite to the master bedroom. 

The owners wanted a relaxing retreat with a design that was sympathetic to the age of the property so a longer-than-average elegant freestanding bath became the focal point of her design.

Fittings: all C.P. Hart. For similar bathroom wall lights, try Pooky.

3. A striking marble bathroom that oozes hotel style

For natural elegance and timelessness, designer Hollie Bowden chose bookmatched Arabescato marble, with an inlaid nickel trim. 

When it comes to small bathroom ideas, Hollie is something of a genius. She believes in keeping the number of materials to a minimum, as it is more dramatic, maximizes the look and also feels more cohesive and fluid. Nickel was chosen for the brassware for its understated glamour.

Bespoke vanity unit and mirror cabinet, Hollie Bowden. Basin, Waterworks; Bath, The Water Monopoly; Basin Mixer, Bath and Shower Mixer, Chessleton. Shower and fittings, Drummonds.

4. Vibrant bathroom with Art Deco and Moroccan influences

A wow-bathroom with vibrant colors and striking fittings which takes inspiration from Moroccan baths. 

Geometric patterned tiles are used on the walls and floor where they come into direct contact with water, and the remaining walls and ceiling are finished in Venetian polished plaster, which was color-matched to the emerald green of the tiles.

Shower fittings, all Drummonds; Tiles, Marrakech Design.

5. Small cloakroom with pink walls and a bespoke tiled frieze

Make a bold statement in a small cloakroom with a bespoke tiled frieze above a dado using an 
upscaled image taken from an old woodblock design printed onto wall tiles. Dusky pink is a good, restful choice for the bathroom. 

6. Tropical bathroom inspired by warm Hawaiian shores

Contrasting textures are a great way to introduce a sense of depth to a scheme. In this modern bathroom idea, a subtle raffia wall covering throws the smooth curves of the bath into eye-catching relief.

7. A classic bathroom with beautiful artefacts

Classic bathrooms don't have to spell stuffy – you can have a lot of fun, as demonstrated in this traditional bathroom idea. 

Opting for a single muted color in an eggshell finish for walls, paneling and window frames will create a blank canvas, allowing furniture and curios to stand out.

8. A sophisticated bathroom with classic, Italian style

Classic and timeless, Arabescato marble with its striking veining embodies Italian elegance at its very best. Additional shades of gray on the blind and the wall ceramics bring cohesion to this simple, stylish look.

9. A classic coastal bathroom with artwork

The classic coastal theme can be extended to the bathroom where painted paneling and a plinth help define the bathing area.

10. Monochrome bathroom scheme with whimsical wallpaper

In this inviting bathroom, the block color of the wall paneling and floor allows a wonderfully whimsical wallpaper idea with a strong motif to shine. 

Meanwhile, understated border details on the curtain and the towels help to pull the look together for a cohesive feel.

11. A classic country bathroom with roll-top bath

To give a classic roll-top bath a contemporary feel, consider simple rather than decorative feet and opt for a delicate painted border instead of an all-over color. 

Fixing hooks to a foraged birch branch provides extra hanging space and adds a whimsical touch.

12. Statement bathroom with a bold wallpaper

This distinctive waterproof wall covering is an innovative alternative to tiles and, with its quirky daubed design, brings a softer feel to this contemporary bathroom scheme.

13. A vibrant green bathroom with botanical-inspired wallpaper

Small spaces can be elevated with bold decorating choices, like this compelling pictorial terrarium wallpaper and moody moss-green tongue-and-groove paneling.

14. A bathroom with a rich palette of tonal browns

Accents of amber and ochre bring softness and a touch of Eastern spice to a sleek modern bathroom sanctuary. The simple motif on the blind is reminiscent of Indian woodblocks, while a mother-of-pearl inlaid Rajasthani cabinet adds character.

Photography/Simon Bevan

15. A bathroom with traditional fixtures and decor

A cheerful indigo-patterned wallpaper above good old-fashioned tongue-and-groove paneling creates a classic bathroom. Paired with a smart bronze basin and tap unit, this space feels fit for a town or country house.

16. A contemporary bathroom with patterned Moroccan floor tiles

From seagrass and bamboo to rattan and cane, natural woven textures are ideal for bringing interiors to life. Hints of pink in this patterned, Moroccan bathroom floor tile idea add an exotic influence to this modern bathroom.

17. A bathroom with Greek influence and Moorish design

An adjoining bathroom offers an opportunity for more adventurous decorating, as shown in this en-suite idea with a strong wall color and chequered flooring. Echoing the palette of the bedroom scheme ensures a unified look.

18. An English country-style bathroom with turquoise bath

Muted walls ensure the turquoise bath makes a strong statement, with a fine black line offering a modern take on the traditional dado rail.

19. A traditional bathroom with gingham accents

The artful blend of a traditional soft-pink gingham curtain and modem oversized floor tiles brings a rich sense of character to this pleasing gray bathroom scheme.

20. A traditional bathroom where the bath takes center stage

If you have a spacious bathroom or are considering converting an existing bedroom into a bathroom, this is an excellent approach. The white floors, large mirror and big window all keep the bathroom feeling bright and spacious, allowing the walls to be painted a deeper, dramatic shade to frame the bath within.

Spring is just around the corner and it's the perfect time to start thinking about an interiors refresh. Need some inspiration? The sofa.com Spring 2020 collection is here to lend a hand, and offers an array of new shapes, from sofas and armchairs to beds and stylish accessories.

From rich saturated colors to beautifully handcrafted detailing and luxurious textures, a variety of aesthetics take centre stage this season. Modern luxe, relaxed living and rustic elegance are the brand's top styling trends this season.

See: Living room ideas – inspiring ways to decorate and furnish your space

Discover 5 top pieces from the Sofa.com spring 2020 collection

1. Bella bed in dove grey

This brand-new silhouette takes its inspiration from the glamorous Art Deco era, and combines timeless style with a contemporary twist.

2. Stella 2.5 seat in paprika

'As we enter a new decade, spring summer 2020 will see homeowners search out warm positive colours and what better way to radiate a welcoming feeling than from your sofa?' says Claire.

'Strong yet subdued colours, such as our new Paprika smart velvet, are warm and inviting. Paired with strong deep hues such as navy it becomes vibrant yet when surrounded by soft greys or off-whites, it is a calming space to retreat to.'

3. Avery double bed in olive

The pretty three-button design on Avery, which would look great upholstered in any of the brand's fabrics or with contrasting buttons, creates the ideal backrest for settling down with a book each evening to unwind and recoup. A trusted look suitable for any home.

4. Ernest armchair in butterscotch

The perfect modern gentleman, the Ernest is the kind of chap you can sit with for hours and never get bored (though you might get so comfy that you have a doze!). An updated take on the classic wing design with a smartly buttoned back, Ernest is an expert at adapting to modern or traditional settings without ever compromising on iconic style. Available with smart wooden legs or a swivel chrome base.

5. Harper armchair in orchid

Taking inspiration from the Art Deco era of British design, the Harper oozes glamour and sophistication with its fabulous fluting - a big trend for 2020.

Claire Wilks from the Design Team at sofa.com comments on the collection: 'Fluting emerged as a big trend last season and we are confident it will continue into 2020. Our gorgeous Bella bed is the brand new addition to our fluted family joining the Harper, Ruby and Albie sofa collections – these designs ooze luxury and glamour whilst paying homage to delicate fluting of the Art Deco era.

'Riding on the trend for subtle detailing, we are introducing button tufting into two of our new shapes for the upcoming season. Our Ernest armchair is a brand new shape for the season, channelling contemporary opulence. This loungy statement chair will add drama and mid-century style into your living room - pair with our Georgette button-back footstools for the perfect set.'

Sofa.com, sofa.com

The US is teeming with awe-inspiring bucket list destinations and experiences, but beyond the most notable cities and regions are some truly remarkable emerging destinations in America for 2020 that should be on your radar.

‘Undertourism’ is a growing global travel trend, seen on both a local scale—for example, exploring up-and-coming neighbourhoods and boroughs in popular cities—and on a larger scale, where travellers are considering lesser-known destinations.

From low-key beach breaks to culinary-focused city stays, seeeight emerging destinations in America for 2020 that are waiting to be explored…

See: Life & Design section

Discover 8 emerging destinations in America for 2020

See our news section for more expert interiors tips, product launches, and luxury travel and property updates

1. For modern art and award-winning food: Baltimore, Maryland

While Baltimore may have made its name as one of America’s most important port cities in the 1700s, today the Charm City is experiencing one of the largest millennial booms in the country, with a growing class of entrepreneurs and artists. As a result, the city has a thriving food, drink and art scene.

Art lovers should head to the Baltimore Museum of Art, home to the largest collection of Henri Matisse in the world, and to the American Visionary Art Museum, which showcases the work of self-taught artists, and encourages visitors to participate in walk-in weekend workshops.

The city’s food scene has also enjoyed a culinary renaissance, with new food hall markets opening up, such as the Lexington Market, and restaurants with James Beard award-winning chefs at the helm, including The Woodberry Kitchen.

2. For wilderness and adventure: Mammoth Lakes, California

Most visitors to California make a beeline for SoCal beaches, but those looking for an outdoor adventure combining picturesque scenery with excellent culinary options should make time for Mammoth Lakes, in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

During the summer, Mammoth offers wilderness camping, mountain biking, hiking and fly fishing, whilst skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing activities take over in the winter months.

Accommodation ranges from cool campsites and luxurious hotels to the Tamarack Lodge—Mammoth’s most secluded resort, where cosy cabins line the water’s edge of Twin Lakes. An emerging destinations in America for 2020 list wouldn't be complete without it.

3. For arts districts and craft beer: Dallas, Texas

Austin has long been favoured as Texas’ hip city escape, but visitors who head north to Dallas will discover a city with a flourishing arts scene, as well as some of the state’s best bars and restaurants.

Downtown, the Dallas Museum of Modern Art features 22,000 works of art stretching over 5,000 years of history while in the leafy suburb of North Oak Cliff, the Bishop Arts District is home to independent shops selling locally designed jewellery, art and all-natural beauty products.

Deep Ellum is the spot for an alternative night out; colourful murals line the streets, and craft-beer bars sit side-by-side with blues music venues.

See: Explore this stunning new Parisian hotel

4. For jazz and art deco architecture: Tulsa, Oklahoma

Emerging destinations in America for 2020 are surprising and diverse. For example, there’s more to Tulsa than its self-billed name ‘the Oil Capital of the World’ – although the wealth generated from the industry is what helped create its beautiful Art Deco downtown.

Those keen to explore the ‘Deco District’ should start at Decopolis—a museum, souvenir shop and bookstore that gives out free walking maps highlighting the city’s magnificent architecture, including the Philcade Building, with its art deco architecture exhibit.

Meanwhile, music lovers should head to the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame at Union Station to learn about music legends and attend Sunday jazz concerts in the concourse.

5. For history and seafood: Portland, Maine

Portland, Oregon has been celebrated as a quirky holiday destination for years, but its namesake town on the east coast, Portland, Maine, has plenty to offer travellers interested in history and coastal cuisine.

The port city was first settled in 1632, and its rich maritime heritage can be experienced through historical walking tours or a visit to the Maine Historical Society Museum in downtown Portland.

Seafood lovers can enjoy a lobster roll from one of Portland’s many excellent quality seafood shacks, or opt for an elevated experience at the James Beard Award-winning Eventide Oyster Company, which offers some of the best seafood dishes in town served with a signature Bubbly Mary (a bloody Mary with cava).

See: The most popular luxury family holiday destinations

6. For gastronomy and the great outdoors: Tuscon, Arizona  

Tucson - designated as the USA’s first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2016 - has some of the best tacos in the country thanks to its location an hour’s drive north of the Mexican border.

It also has so much to offer outdoors lovers, including hiking through the Sabino Canyon and Saguaro National Park, exploring three miles of passageways and caves at Colossal Cave Mountain Park or horse riding and rock climbing at White Stallion Ranch.

Accommodation options in Tucson include Hotel McCoy - a colourful mid-century-inspired modern art hotel suitable for laidback travellers, and Posada by Joshua Tree House - a serene five-suite inn located within 38 acres of forest, perfect for nature-lovers.

7. For beaches and bars: Fort Lauderdale, Florida 

Fort Lauderdale is just an hour’s drive north of Miami, and has beaches and bars to rival its famous neighbour. The highly anticipated Seminole Hard Rock Hotel—a huge casino and hotel complex built in the shape of a guitar featuring 469 rock star-worthy rooms and suites, waterslides and live events—opened in late 2019.

Fort Lauderdale is also one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in the world, and is home to the world’s first LGBTQ+ Visitor Centre, which showcases the attractions and bars that may interest visitors.

8. For dining and distilleries: Louisville, Kentucky 

Home to the Kentucky Derby and the Muhammad Ali Centre, Louisville is ideal for an easy-going city stay with excellent restaurants. The city’s burgeoning food scene ranges from contemporary American cuisine with city-skyline views at the rooftop restaurant 8UP, to thick and cheesy Louisville-style pizza at Impellizzeri.

Imbibers can enjoy the state’s national drink, bourbon, at their pick of distilleries and bars such as Gerstle’s in Crescent Hill, serving signature deep-fried cheese balls with bourbon and a side of live blues and rock’n’roll, and Old Louisville’s 610 Magnolia, which pairs locally-distilled bourbon and wine with multi-course tasting menus.

Head to Visit the USA for more information.