Some living rooms resonate with you long after your first glance, and Johnny Galecki’s is my favorite example. Defined by its maximalist aesthetic (courtesy of the revered Pierce & Ward), the space is a treasure trove in every sense of the word – anchored by a blue sofa trend.

Identified as the Cloud sofa from Restoration Hardware, and designed by Timothy Oulton, Johnny's sofa is an icon of 'sink-in' comfort. It's characterized by its deep, low-profile silhouette and, even more importantly, its saturated blue colorway, which is stunning against the room's earthier elements.

While the Cloud collection is standard (available from Restoration Hardware), the specific royal blue velvet used in Johnny Galecki’s home is custom upholstery. Alternatively, this modular sofa from Wayfair makes Johnny's cloud-like look even more accessible. It will look stunning in any living room, especially those with maximalist bones like Johnny's.

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Following Johnny's example begins with a blue living room sofa, whether you have the space for a large sectional like his or a more compact loveseat. However, as design experts explain, we do need to style this piece with caution.

There is a sitting room I designed a few years ago now, where we settled on a deep navy wool sofa, the color of ink. Dark blue does something black cannot. It carries the same depth, but with warmth and a quiet pull, so a room feels enveloping rather than hard,' comments Simon Mayhew, interior designer and founder of TXTURED.

'The mistake is treating it as a neutral. It is not. It is an anchor. Style it against texture and contrast. Unlacquered brass, smoked oak, a linen cushion in rust or ochre. Let one warm, tactile thing sit beside it,' Simon explains. 'And it endures. A good navy will still feel considered in ten years, long after the season's greys have dated.'

Johnny Galecki’s living room proves that you don't need to fear bold design choices. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to move away from the sea of beige and grey, this is it.

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Can Johnny Galecki do no wrong when it comes to interior decor? He's the unexpected style icon whose richly layered and characterful room designs (courtesy of design duo, Pierce & Ward) are on all of our Pinterest boards here at Homes & Gardens HQ.

Even his guest room has had the signature Galecki treatment, featuring deep, earthy palettes, vintage finds, rustic touches, and pattern – lots of it – in his wallpaper choice. Mixing patterns in interiors can be a bit of a minefield, but if you get it right, the reward of a beautifully multi-layered and whimsical space, a la Johnny Galecki.

I've asked the experts about the pitfalls of pattern clashing with wallpaper and accessories, and how to make it work for you. Plus, I've tracked down wallpapers inspired by Johnny Galecki's guest room, from the exact Mulberry's Grand Flying Ducks (Wallpaper Direct) to Pierce & Ward's Wide Multi-Stripe Wallpaper (West Elm), as well as some design pieces to help you recreate the actor's distinctive style.

Buys Inspired by Johnny Galecki's Pattern-Clashing Guestroom

Whilst we might think wallpaper ideas should involve using one key print in a room or creating a feature wall, Johnny Galecki's guest room, proves that you can use different prints to great effect. But before you go mixing up different patterns and colors at will, there are a few design tricks to note.

Yanise Monet, Interiors and wallpaper designer, explains: 'Mixing wallpaper patterns is really about creating a visual conversation. The patterns don’t need to match, but they do need to relate. I always recommend starting with a cohesive color story, even when the patterns are very different, sharing tones will keep the room feeling intentional and sophisticated.' This is exactly what we see in Johnny Galecki's guest room with his palette of earthy salmon pinks, sage greens, and browns.

Joelle Uzyel, a residential interior designer based in Beverly Hills, agrees: 'Keep a connecting tone running through both patterns and into the rest of the room. It does not need to be the dominant color. It can be a secondary tone or even a near-neutral. That repeated color is what makes the eye read the mix as a decision rather than an accident.'

The designers of this space, Louisa Pierce and Emily Ward, have not only used the walls to create impact with pattern on the walls, but have also brought in ceiling wallpaper ideas. Yanise shares: 'I love treating the ceilings as a fifth wall. A bold graphic pattern on the walls paired with a softer or complementary pattern above it can create depth and drama without overwhelming the room.'

As well as a cohesive color theme, it's important to consider the style and scale of your patterns. 'Mixing wallpaper patterns works best when the room gives the eye somewhere to rest,' explains Joelle. 'The principle I always come back to is scale. If two patterns fight for the same visual weight, the room feels unresolved. One pattern needs to be large and expressive, while the other stays quiet and structural. That contrast gives the eye somewhere to land.'

The striped and botanical bedroom wallpaper combination in Johnny Galecki's home works perfectly as the patterns elevate each other rather than competing for attention. 'Stripes and florals work beautifully together for exactly this reason. A stripe has a clear axis. It gives the eye a grid to follow. A botanical or floral moves organically and breaks that grid. The tension between them reads as intentional,' adds Joelle.

She continues: 'The mistake I see most often is two patterns at the same scale in similar colorways. They collapse into each other, and the room feels restless without anyone knowing why.'

You can also apply the rules of scale, color, and pattern to other elements in the room, such as rugs, bedding, and throw pillows. As long as you vary the prints, such as mixing a ditsy floral print on a throw pillow (like the Lafayette pillow cover by McGee & Co) with a pinstripe on a duvet cover (Pierce & Ward's linen set at West Elm is perfect), but keep a color theme consistent, you'll create a seamless and intentional look.

Yanise concludes: 'When color, scale, and rhythm are considered together mixing patterns becomes less about rules and more about creating the room that feels curated and expressive.'

Want to try this trend? Once you've selected your contrasting prints and a color thread, read up on how to wallpaper a room for the best results.

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Two years later, and I still can’t get enough of Johnny Galecki’s home library. From the moment you step inside, your eyes are drawn to the color – a deep, velvety red that blankets the walls, ceiling, and built-in shelves. It’s impossible to ignore, and yet it doesn’t feel overwhelming. Instead, it wraps the room in warmth and intimacy. In a world where so many interiors play it safe with neutrals, this library dares to be bold, and that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable.

Red room ideas are a bold color choice – full of energy, passion, and warmth. It can even affect us physically, quickening the pulse, sharpening focus, and heightening the senses. Yet when used thoughtfully, it can transform a space beautifully.

Johnny Galecki’s home library, designed by Pierce & Ward, is one of my favorite examples of how to decorate with red successfully, creating a space that feels vibrant, sophisticated, and inviting all at once.

How Johnny’s Library Makes Red Work

What makes this library so remarkable is how confidently it leans into red without letting it overpower the room. Step inside, and you immediately feel the energy, drama, and surprising sense of comfort all at once – a perfect illustration of color psychology in action.

As Color Expert and Author Karen Haller explains, ‘Red is the one color that we are unable to live within large quantities,’ noting that it can trigger subtle stress responses while simultaneously sharpening alertness.

Designer Vanessa Arbuthnott adds, ‘Red doesn’t just grab attention – it stimulates conversation and invites connection.’ In this library, you can feel both of these dynamics working together: the color is energizing yet welcoming, bold but balanced.

The walls, ceiling, and shelves are color-drenched in a deep, velvety crimson that could easily feel overwhelming. Yet the space is softened and balanced by carefully curated elements: dark wood shelving, a thoughtful mix of books and objects, and textured finishes add depth and prevent the color from feeling oppressive. Every detail feels deliberate, as if the room was designed for living, reading, and lingering – not just for show.

The layout and layering further help make red feel approachable. Built-in shelving guides the eye naturally, while subtle accents and textures break up the color just enough to keep it dynamic. The crimson hue envelops the space like a warm embrace, turning what could have been an intimidating choice into a rich, immersive experience.

Why It’s a Masterclass in Color and Atmosphere

Red is a stressful color, and it can be intimidating, but when handled with intention, it becomes transformative. In Johnny’s library, the color energizes the space while creating intimacy, focus, and even a sense of ritual – it’s a room you want to step into and spend hours in. Two years later, it still feels fresh, inspiring, and relevant, proving that bold color, when thoughtfully executed, can be both dramatic and welcoming.

This library is more than just a striking visual statement; it’s a lesson in how color, psychology, and design sensibility come together to create a space that feels alive, lived-in, and unforgettable.

Johnny Galecki’s home library reminds us that interiors don’t have to shy away from bold choices – with care, courage, and a bit of creativity, color can turn any room into something truly extraordinary.

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You don’t need to completely drench a room in red to experience the drama and warmth of this rich, vibrant color. Experimenting with red can be simple and approachable with the right products. These carefully chosen picks capture the look beautifully – and they work in almost any space, big or small.

I'll admit that 'circus chic' has never claimed a spot on my mood board before, but Johnny Galecki's Nashville home might just have swayed me. There's one space that I can't stop thinking about: showcasing a vintage armchair, a marble fireplace, and some spectacular striped wallpaper, it's a real sight to behold.

It's likely the stripes that bring a circus to mind, but there's nothing childlike or kitschy about this space. In fact, the wallpaper blends dramatic black columns with gold leaf – a print that's cleverly echoed by matching lampshades on a rustic wall sconce, and there's a definitively Gothic air to every detail.

Alone, the wallpaper is a daring choice; paired with the abstract artwork, it could feel dated, and the neutral channel-back chair could easily look out of place. Yet together, these three elements form a striking vignette, transforming a quiet corner into a masterpiece. It's the brainchild of celebrated designers Pierce & Ward, and a reminder of why they're so beloved across Hollywood.

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You don't need to add opulent gold wallpaper or a vintage armchair to channel Johnny's look; I'd start with a striped decor piece like the Wade Logan two-tone lamp from Wayfair, styled with some earthy ceramics like CB2's Canale green vase, and some faux stems, of course.

To me, Johnny Galecki's Nashville home brings the whimsigoth interiors trend to life – with a dash of luxury thrown in. While it's awash with dramatic colors and vintage finds, there's a feeling of opulence that accompanies the eccentricity.

The gold wallpaper is, naturally, the star of the show, and it adds real grandeur to this simple corner. Combined with the stunning wood floors and the marble fireplace, the space could easily feel imposing, but this is where careful styling comes in.

Take the armchair for example: finished in soft neutral fabrics with a curved silhouette, it lends the room a sense of softness. And with the brighter tones of the artwork above, this moody space is imbued with energy and personality.

Gothic interiors can be breathtaking, but they can also feel a little ominous or dark. To me, Johnny's decision to bring lustrous gold leaf together with pale beige seating is what elevates this space, introducing a touch of brightness while still preserving a cozy atmosphere.

According to Molly Cody, Founder of RESET Interiors, it's this artful contrast that can really complete a room.

'We'll be seeing a soft blend of white and beige tones alongside more contrasted colors throughout this year,' she comments. 'To prevent a one-dimensional look, designers are using a variety of bolder colors to ensure longevity in living room schemes.'

Naturally, whimsical (or circus-inspired) living room ideas aren't for everyone, but Johnny's space is proof that even bolder design choices can be balanced out to create an inviting feel. It looks like high-contrast design schemes are taking center stage this year.

Johnny Galecki might be best known for his role as Leonard Hofstadter in The Big Bang Theory, but since his whimsical home featured in Architectural Digest’s March 2024 issue, he has quietly become a compelling source of interior design inspiration. His moody, Gothic taste offers a confident counterpoint to pared-back minimalism, with no corner left unturned – not even the bathroom.

In fact, the bathroom stands as one of the clearest expressions of Galecki's design sensibility. Featuring checkboard wall tiles, vintage-style vanities, and oversized custom mirrors, it feels more akin to a private members' club than a conventional family bathroom. But beyond its dramatic aesthetic, the room delivers an important design lesson in bathroom lighting centered on the power of ambient light sources.

Antique brass honeycomb pendants with custom lamp cords, courtesy of the designers Pierce & Ward, hang over the pastel-toned sinks, while a large smoked glass sconce anchors the wall. Together, they cast a warm, inviting glow that softens the room's darker elements, proof that ambient lighting matters, even in the most unexpected of spaces.

If you want to know how to layer lighting, you can't go wrong with using Johnny's bathroom as an example. Ambient lighting refers to the general, overall illumination of a room, which, in most bathrooms, is typically bright and stark. Although this is often necessary (with bathrooms being practical spaces first and foremost), adding in the likes of wall lights and sconces can instantly elevate a room, making it feel more luxe, cozy, and welcoming.

Take Galecki's bathroom. There will, of course, be an overhead light source out of shot, but the use of a dramatic wall light flanked by two matching pendants brings a softness to the space. With them, the otherwise moody room feels cozier, warmer, and more inviting.

Hazel Park, lead lighting designer at John Cullen Lighting, notes how this sort of intentional lighting is often overlooked in bathrooms, and yet, it's arguably even more important than other parts of the home

'Decorative pendant lights suspended above the sink are thoughtfully paired with a statement wall light to create a layered lighting scheme that prioritises ambient illumination,' she says. 'This softer, more diffused light is essential for gently illuminating the face, avoiding harsh shadows while enhancing everyday rituals.'

The result, she says, is a warm, flattering glow that elevates the space. 'It lends a sense of calm and understated luxury while still providing practical task lighting at the mirror,' she concludes.

Looking for ways to give your bathroom a members' club makeover? Take notes from Galecki's use of ambient lighting. Make bathroom vanity lighting ideas the focus, not an afterthought, and your space is guaranteed to feel warmer, cozier, and more luxe.

There's something about minimalism that's always spoken to me in ways that never felt possible in louder, bolder spaces. Incorrectly, I often tied maximalism with trends (such as cluttercore) or audacious color pairings that felt far too experimental for my small home. Then I saw Johnny Galecki's living room, designed by the eminent design duo Pierce & Ward, and it changed everything.

Johnny's home proves that the term 'maximalism' doesn't equate to something that feels overwhelming.

The olive-green paint, paired with the deep blue sofa and patterned rug, creates a bold – but not overpowering – canvas for his artworks and accessories to shine (we love this Brigitte Bardot print for a similar look). I'll admit, I never thought I would feel content in a maximalist living room, but Johnny's space is one of the dreamiest I've ever seen.

When creating a maximalist home that feels as curated as Johnny's, laying textures strategically is key. Abigail Ball, the marketing and brand manager at Bisley, has some advice on mastering this tricky aesthetic.

At Bisley, we believe the art of styling a maximalist living room is all about self-expression – curating colour, pattern, and personality to create a space that tells your unique story,' Abigail comments.

'This eclectic aesthetic invites you to be bold, layering textures, mixing vintage and modern pieces, and showcasing everything from artwork to treasured keepsakes. It’s not about following rules, but about creating a home that feels joyful, lived-in, and unmistakably yours.'

One thing unites Johnny Galecki, Blake Lively, Bradley Cooper, and LeBron James – and it comes in the unconventional shape of their bedroom. The Big Bang Theory actor's space, designed by Pierce & Ward, follows the same bizarre but luxurious trend we've observed in all these celebrities' homes: an open-plan bedroom and bathroom space that's not separated by doors.

We first learned of this increasingly popular bedroom layout when Cooper revealed his 'bathtub, toilet, and the bed are all in the same room' (via the Armchair Expert podcast). Since then, we've seen Lively and Reynolds blur the lines between their sleep and bathing spaces after introducing a marble tub in their rustic bedroom, while James added a walk-in shower area to a living/dressing room area.

Galecki's room removes conventional bathroom walls (and misses a door), meaning the space feels open-plan but the areas remain zoned. In an interview with Architectural Digest, Pierce shared how Galecki gave them permission to 'forgo bathroom walls,' before adding that glass windows were the perfect solution.

'I was like, yeah, but you want some kind of division, so let’s have this gorgeous window where you still feel totally connected, but you can have some separation,' Pierce comments.

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While this layout is unconventional, it's undeniably luxurious and (as recent looks in celebrity homes have shown) increasingly popular. The interest in this layout is understandable among designers, who explain that there's more to this stylish seasonal shift in design than its striking aesthetic.

'An open-plan design between the bedroom and bathroom creates a seamless transition that visually expands both areas. This is one big factor behind why it's used in luxury spaces – because it enhances the sense of space in a room, making it feel bigger and more luxurious,' comments interior designer Courtney Cole.

'By allowing the two rooms to flow into each other, the natural light can flow more easily, too. Using glass partitions or sliding doors helps contribute to this light distribution, reducing barriers to the light in the room. This makes the room feel more calming and ambient and is one of the reasons why people love this as a design choice,' Cole says, noting that the lighter feel is welcome as the days shorten.

Plus, the intricate design process behind such a layout is a reason we're seeing it in celebrity properties. These spaces are typically large and are able to overcome practical technicalities that make this aesthetic possible.

'It hasn't been integrated into most homes, which adds an elevated sense of style to the living space. Without having traditional walls, there is a certain amount of versatility by being able to choose a partition for privacy or glass for style, which makes it a stylish and personalized choice for the home,' Cole notes. It's also the reason why it's a favorite in exclusive hotels – the perfect winter retreat.

'The layout of the integrated bathroom/bedroom is mainly seen in luxurious hotels, so the homes that do adopt this style choice have a sense of elevated luxury.'

Do you like the look of this unorthodox interior design trend? Let me know in the comments below.

It's not often that an interior design stops me in my tracks, but the first time I laid eyes on Johnny Galecki's color-drenched library, it's fair to say I was stunned. Covered in a striking cherry red paint, the space is surprisingly welcoming – all brought to life through carefully curated touches.

The paint color was (of course) the first thing to grab my attention, but it didn't take long to realize that what makes the design truly special are the luxurious vintage details, from the midcentury lighting to the retro patterns. Thoughtfully layered by interior design duo Pierce & Ward, the library is a lesson in having fun with design.

On a mission to recreate the rather enviable library look, I've curated a list of the six best pieces to buy to transform your own study, home office, or reading nook into a work of art like Johnny's.

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Johnny's library is undeniably artfully curated. Featuring striking red walls and decadent furniture and decor, it's a lesson in fusing fun with luxury. While painting your walls in cherry red may not be on the cards, you'll be pleased to know you can recreate the look with these six chic picks.

Johnny's library is a lesson in fearless design that honors its owner. It might be bold to some, but I think it's the perfect balance of fun and luxurious – and it couldn't be a more inspiring space to work in.

There are some kitchens that resonate with you long after your first sight. One such example is Johnny Galecki’s old-world space, the product of celebrity-favorite studio Pierce & Ward. We first laid eyes on the actor's kitchen in 2024, and over a year later, it remains a favorite across the team.

What makes Johnny's log cabin-style kitchen so special is his curation of accessories, both functional and decorative. However, some of them combine both. Starting with his kitchen island, Johnny has gathered rattan baskets (like these from Wayfair), rustic containers, and wooden bowls (like this one from Target) that bring a French farmhouse-inspired aesthetic to dark storybook space.

On his shelves, the treasures continue. He's collected a range of antique-style copper pans and a kettle that looks as though it's had a place in the kitchen for centuries. To the right, colored crockery, like these green bowls from Anthropologie, introduces the perfect amount of vibrancy to the room.

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Replicating Johnny Galecki’s look has never been easier. I've handpicked some products directly inspired by his kitchen, including some exact matches, such as the iconic Susteas Tea Kettle (available at Amazon). You can bring hints of his storybook-style home, no matter the size of your kitchen.

There’s something truly magical about fall – the way nature dresses itself in fiery reds, burnt oranges, deep rusts, and golden yellows. Walking through woodland, the leaves crunching beneath your feet, the hedgerows heavy with berries, and the harvest bringing rich pumpkin and plum tones to the kitchen table, it’s easy to see why these colors are an interior designer’s dream. Johnny Galecki’s log cabin-style kitchen, crafted by celebrity-favorite studio Pierce & Ward, captures that seasonal inspiration perfectly, creating a space that feels both snug and restful.

The beauty of the fall palette lies in its versatility. Rich, earthy tones like ochre, terracotta, and dusty rose provide a calming backdrop that sits harmoniously with timber and stone – common in period homes – while allowing more vibrant hues like ruby red, plum, and deep orange to shine as accent points.

Fabric designer Vanessa Arbuthnott explains, 'Decorating with neutrals goes beyond the neutral palette of off-whites and soft browns – fall presents us with an array of glorious rusty reds, dusty pinks and ochre yellows that naturally pair well together.'

Sue Jones, creative director at Oka, agrees: 'Walking through woodland is so inspirational. These colors give interiors a moment of calmness and a feeling of serenity. They sit back in a room and don’t jump out at you.' There’s a reason these tones are increasingly popular in kitchens – spaces where comfort, warmth, and conviviality are paramount. Layered across cabinetry, accessories, and furnishings, they create a grounding, cocooning environment that feels timeless.

Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene, notes the growing trend towards decorating with brown and other earthy hues for wellbeing: 'There’s a greater desire to surround ourselves with comforting colors that are easy to scheme and provide tranquillity in our homes. Browns and honey-hued colors are re-taking their rightful place in our interiors. Shades of honey, caramel and chocolate bring warmth and comfort, creating cozy, enveloping spaces.' Her point is clear: these tones don’t just look beautiful – they nurture the home and the people living in it.

Layering is key to making a fall palette sing. Sue Jones recommends mixing textures and lighting: 'Think about dotting different types of lighting around the room at various heights. Incorporate a variety of lamp bases with sculptural features, shades with nature-inspired patterns, and, of course, candlelight. For soft furnishings, mix materials like jute, leather, and linen to add depth and texture.' In Galecki’s cabin kitchen, the effect is immediate – a welcoming, tactile space where every detail feels carefully considered.

Whether used wall-to-wall or sprinkled through accessories, fall hues are incredibly adaptable. In contemporary kitchens, deep burgundy cabinets, terracotta tiles, and copper accents can be paired with neutral walls and wooden countertops for a sophisticated, layered effect. Alternatively, layer these room colors more sparingly with textiles, cushions, rugs, or decorative objects for a subtler nod to the season.

The result is effortless and inviting. The rich, warm palette paired with natural materials and layered textures transforms the space into a sanctuary for cooking, eating, and relaxing. This fall, let nature’s colors inspire your interiors – you’ll find that a few thoughtful touches of rust, plum, and gold can make your home feel instantly snug, restorative, and ready for the season.

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Bringing nature's own color – the fiery reds and burnt oranges of the woodland – into my own home has been pure magic. I was so inspired that I replicated the look in my own kitchen, using wood-toned cabinets, sand-colored tiles, and copper accents.

The results have been transformative; the space has been curated into a cocooning, restorative sanctuary for cooking and relaxing. Every time I walk in, I feel that same sense of serenity and quiet warmth you get on a crisp fall walk, making my home feel truly prepared and snug for the season.

There is no doubt that warm neutrals have reclaimed their status as the most sophisticated tones for home use, with the kitchen of actor Johnny Galecki serving as a perfect example of this refined style. While many people feel most comfortable when surrounded by carefully balanced colors that create an understated, cozy environment and make few demands on the eye, decorating with neutrals alone is not a fail-safe combination. It is all too easy to fall into the trap of using bland, depressing colors that are nothing like the complex, layered palettes featured in his home.

Designed by the interior design firm Pierce & Ward, Galecki's kitchen features a quiet luxury palette that beautifully blends grounding shades of warm beige, taupe, and ochre with an unexpected pale blue. This season, we are drawn to these 'quiet luxury' colors, but we are mixing them up with unusual color combinations for rooms for maximum impact.

We have decidedly steered away from Millennial favorite gray and tired magnolia palettes. These days, rich, tonal color schemes take center stage, often featuring underappreciated muddy hues. The interior design duo behind Pierce and Ward, Louisa Pierce and Emily Ward, frequently throw out the rulebook with their penchant for unexpected color combinations.

Shades of beige, mustard, and brown are rarely the conventional paint and fabric colors of choice for the discerning decorator, but Pierce & Ward, who coined the term 'ugly colors,' say every house needs a dose of these underappreciated muddy tones to dial down the pretty and perfect.

Along with these grounding shades, pale blue, turquoise, and teal are the complementary color trend having a significant moment in the spotlight. It is easily the tone of choice for many, from amateur decorators to interior designers, as it's incredibly easy to live with and perfect for layering, believes Patrick O’Donnell of Farrow & Ball. ‘Lighter, sea-inspired blues also have positive attributes in color psychology, such as enthusiasm, sympathy, warmth, encouragement, spirituality, loyalty, and thoughtfulness.’ It is an uplifting and restorative color to have around the home.

Decorating with blue makes for a calming backdrop for a busy kitchen, and it can be instantly warmed up with those crucial contrasting neutrals like beige, ochre, oranges, and yellows. ‘We are very careful when picking blues for a room that doesn’t get too much natural light to make sure that the undertones are not too gray,’ says Liv Wallers and Cath Beckett, co-founders of Yellow London.

Calm, subtle, and surprisingly versatile, this gentle shade – which often carries a hint of steely gray – is the current underdog of the biggest, most sophisticated color stories dominating contemporary design.

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The unexpected mix of colors (blue and green, to be specific), large-scale chandelier, and assortment of materials, including leather, wood, and velvet, is not only visually appealing but also somehow works marvelously together.

Typically, I am drawn to living spaces with calming, minimalist sensibilities. Neutral tones, natural materials, and soft textures are what feel most me; however, I love to be proven wrong, and Johnny Galecki's maximalist living room has done just that.

The Pierce & Ward-designed room is truly maximalist in every sense of the word. From the green-painted walls to the blown-up, black-and-white photographs, the space is a masterclass in bold pairings and pattern play.

The unexpected mix of colors (blue and green, to be specific), large-scale chandelier, and assortment of materials, including leather, wood, and velvet, are not only visually appealing but all somehow work marvelously together. It's safe to say I'm convinced of a maximalist home approach now.

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One of the aspects I love most about this space is the coffee table decoration. Covered in stacks of books, magazines, and paperweights, the table has a bookshelf wealth feeling; one that encourages browsing and lounging around in the surrounding sofas. It notably doesn't feel cluttered either, with the stacks spaced out and piled up neatly and intentionally.

I also love the mix of patterned cushions on the different couches. While the space features solid-colored sofas in navy blue, key lime green, and brown, the plaid, floral, and striped pillows add some more personality to the conversational seating area.

Finally, the dramatic lighting ideas make the space feel glamorous and primed for entertaining. Rather than going for a soft scheme of lamps, the overhead lighting serves as a bold point of interest in itself, and makes the case for keeping the big light on.

Johnny Galecki’s Ojai, California, home is full of charm, but it’s his moody, cocooning library that’s making waves in the design world. Recently shared by acclaimed interior designers Pierce & Ward on Instagram, the space is a masterclass in one of 2025’s most compelling paint trends: color drenching.

For the uninitiated, color drenching involves painting every surface in a room – walls, trim, ceiling, and even built-ins – in a single, saturated hue. The effect is immersive, atmospheric, and deeply sophisticated.

In Johnny Galecki’s case, a rich, velvety red coats the entire space, creating a dramatic backdrop for vintage armchairs, a well-stocked bookshelf, and a cabinet of curiosities that reflect The Big Bang Theory actor’s eclectic taste.

What makes the red room particularly compelling is its finish – there’s a subtle sheen to the paint, likely a lacquer or high-gloss, which elevates the tone and catches the light in just the right way. The choice of room color feels luxurious and a little mysterious, perfectly suited for a library that invites quiet retreat. It’s also a reminder that small or low-lit rooms don’t always benefit from light colors; sometimes, embracing the dark can be transformative.

Color drenching is gaining momentum for good reason. As design continues to move away from sterile minimalism and toward richer, more expressive spaces, this technique offers a bold yet cohesive way to work with color. By eliminating contrasting lines and framing elements, the eye is allowed to rest, and the result feels intentional, calming, and high-impact.

If you’re looking to try the interior design trend at home, start with a smaller space – think a study, powder room, or reading nook. Choose a shade that speaks to the mood you want to create, and don’t be afraid to go deep. A matte finish will add softness, while high-gloss or satin can lend a more refined touch. Add texture through furniture and accessories to keep the room dynamic.

Johnny Galecki’s library, as imagined by Pierce & Ward, is proof that bold color can be both timeless and on trend. It’s not just about making a statement. It’s about creating a space that feels completely, unapologetically yours.

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Take a cue from Johnny Galecki and embrace the impact of a single, statement shade – drench your space in rich, tonal red for a look that feels both bold and beautifully cohesive. Here are my favorite product selects to help you bring the look home.

Now for the fun part – if you're an Aries, color drenching is the bold, fearless home decor trend your zodiac sign was born to love. As the fiery first sign of the zodiac, you're known for your confidence, energy, and appetite for taking risks – and no trend embodies that spirit quite like layering a single hue across walls, furniture, and even the ceiling.

Warm, cozy, mysterious, and ever-so-slightly gothic: These are all words you might use to describe the 'cabincore' trend that's appeared in design conversations over recent years. They're also the terms you would use to categorize Johnny Galecki's bedroom.

To help create the cabin-style bedroom of his dreams, the Big Bang Theory actor enlisted the help of celebrated design duo Pierce & Ward, esteemed for their unique blend of vintage charm and modern elegance in some of the most famous celebrity homes.

In Johnny's case, they were tasked with creating a gothic-inspired sanctuary that feels welcoming yet slightly unconventional, and nowhere perfects this quite like his bedroom.

We've already spoken about Johnny Galecki's unorthodox bedroom layout, involving an open-plan bedroom and bathroom space that's not separated by doors. However, we thought his twist on the cabincore trend was worth a mention in its own right.

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To master the cabin-inspired look, Johnny used three main tools: wood-paneled walls, dark olive green paint, and the perfect amount of texture (the latter making the room feel cozy instead of stark). The look is certainly not for those who love a minimalist aesthetic, but it's perfect for those looking to create a cocooning sleep space that feels uniquely yours.

'Cabin-style bedrooms are built on texture and warmth, using materials that feel inviting rather than polished,' comments Gareth Davies, the design director at Classic Interiors.

'Wood panelling is especially effective here because it instantly adds depth and softness to a space, particularly in warmer tones or heavily grained finishes. Even a single wall can bring that cocooning effect.'

Colors and textures aside, Gareth says that mastering task lighting (just as Johnny has done) is crucial to maintaining the dark yet functional impact.

'Task lighting is another key detail. Wall-mounted fixtures or discreet bedside lamps work well for this style, offering practical lighting without overwhelming the room. The goal is to avoid anything too clinical, so softer, directional light is what you're looking for here,' he says.

'Rather than being overly styled, this is a design language that feels familiar and settled. In a bedroom, that matters the most – it helps switch the mind off and makes the space feel like a genuine retreat.'

Would you ever opt for this cozy look, or do you prefer a minimalist approach? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Big Bang Theory's Johnny Galecki is a fan of eclectic interior design, maximalism, and bold color choices, and none more so than in his larger-than-life sitting room.

Eye-catching, expressive, and enchanting in every way, his maximalist living room is one of the most irresistible spaces in his Nashville home. Designed by interior design firm Pierce & Ward, maximalism is the decor trend of choice.

Maximalist decor ideas are about embracing excess. Think large doses of color, exuberant pattern, and plenty of textural elements. While 'more might be more', the current interior design trend for maximalism doesn’t equal mess. Think of your space as a carefully curated Aladdin’s 'cave of wonders', with each item on display even more fascinating than the last.

The way we decorate our homes defines our personalities. While we’ll always need to furnish our rooms with practical pieces, how they look will always play a huge part in why we choose them, going for designs that reflect our personalities and make our hearts sing. And if there is only one space in your home that will benefit from being bold, it is the living room.

Channelling an on-trend maximalist aesthetic, packed with statement, feel-good pieces, Johnny's home is a unique masterpiece. However, despite the eccentric look, the overall scheme is cohesive. The bold red walls work wonderfully with the gentle pink soft furnishings and reddish wood tones elsewhere, for example. It is a well-curated design, with an exceptional use of room color ideas.

If you wish to replicate a similar look, I always advise readers to start with the color palette. The right color trends are key to our mood and how likely we are to feel connected with our homes. If you’re unsure, start by looking at your closet, 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, and your home should reflect that aesthetic.

When it comes to the decor, simply start with a strong base, such as large pieces of furniture and flooring, as the anchor for your scheme. You can use both patterns or plains, provided you space them out and limit the color palette to two to three shades; this way, they’ll create the ideal background for your accessories.

Then, when choosing smaller pieces to finish off, look for unusual shapes and pops of colour – try eye-catching statement designs, while avoiding anything too matchy-matchy. And above all, have fun with it.

Maximalist design has been a part of the design world for centuries, but now it has manifested in our homes and has evolved into 'curated chaos' as I like to call it. With proper curation, the rules for decorating with maximalism are easy to follow – and quite honestly, anything goes.

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If you came of age believing that you should never mix blue and green together, you are not alone. The source of the adage of never mixing these two contrasting colors has murky roots. Scratch beneath the surface and its origins are hard to fathom. One of the most likely theories, given that so much idiom in the English language derives from maritime vernacular and superstitions, is that sailors were warned not to paint the hulls of their boats green lest they become invisible when capsized. But it’s tenuous.

These days, many designers and decorators are taking more risks with their chosen room color ideas, and thankfully we've seen more exciting color trends as a result.

Actor and star of the Big Bang Theory, Johnny Galecki' living room, designed by Pierce & Ward, throws the rulebook out of the window and manages to get the dubious pairing oh so right.

‘It simply doesn’t occur to me to work with a rule book when it comes to color,’ agrees decorator and textile expert Susan Deliss. 'It’s about what feels right for the room, its light, and its surrounding environment. It’s a question of tone and judgment. In a sunny climate, you can get away with pairing mid to dark-tone greens and cobalt or navy blues. This modern living room is the perfect example of why you should follow suit when it comes to color combinations for rooms.

Designer Sarah Vanrenen is another fan of blending blue with green. ‘To warm it up, add a splash of pink or orange in the cushions.’ She also chose to use this combination for the walls of her garden room to create a seamless link to the grass beyond the open sides. ‘I always find green an incredibly uplifting and mood-enhancing color; it feeds my soul.' While the blue feels like a soothing sky or deep blue ocean.

It has simply never occurred to me – at least as I've become older and wiser – not to mix these two nature-inspired hues. Botanical tones work with most shades to create rooms that are harmonious and easy to live with. They work beautifully with deep sea blues; it is part of nature. Johnny Galecki's maximalist living room is a testament to that theory.

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As much as I love a full bookcase and overflowing houseplants, I am, at heart, a minimalist. You can imagine, then, that anything involving dusty vintage hues and clashing patterns is not my dream decorating style – and it wasn't until I saw Johnny Galecki's guest bedroom. It's an example of the most daring yet well-balanced spaces I've ever seen (and as a celebrity style editor, I see a lot).

Designed by the revered design duo Pierce & Ward, Galecki's home is a whimsical celebration of all things gothic – a unique aesthetic that arguably comes into play the most in this bedroom. Gothic palettes are often synonymous with darker hues (to which there are some in the patterns); however, the clashing vintage patterns introduce a new way of playing with gothic interior design.

This style is increasingly associated with rich, quietly moody aesthetics – and historical luxury is at its core. When asked to think about a gothic-style space, I picture an ornate, richly patterned historic manor in the English countryside – some of which are in the hills in northern England where I grew up. These historic spaces have the same ambiance as Galecki's guest bedroom – and the secret is in the patterns.

In the actor's space, designers Louisa Pierce and Emily Ward used Hamilton Weston’s French Stripe as a wall covering, while Mulberry Home’s Flying Ducks covers the ceiling. In case this wasn't already enough pattern, they introduced an ornate area rug from Nashville's Nasir's Rugs – exhibiting a rich pink and black border that taps further into the gothic theme. There's also a patterned triangular bedhead (again, in a dark hue) and floral cushions on the bed.

Combining stripes, flowers, and botanical prints on the behead, floor, walls, and ceiling is a brave design move, but it's one that, despite its audaciousness, works in harmony. Martin Waller, the founder of the global design brand Andrew Martin, agrees. 'More is always more. Layer texture and pattern to create excitement in a home. More rugs, more art, more objects,' he says.

As I mentioned, I am a minimalist at heart, but Galecki's maximalist bedroom convinced me that layered patterns can still bring calmness to a modern home. If you want to follow his example without overindulging in colors or prints, designer Matthew Williamson recommends starting with a rug. 'One of the best places to start when bringing color and pattern into the home is with a floor covering, setting the tone and anchoring the rest of the space,' he says.

'A beautiful rug can give you a palette or a sounding board for the rest of the room. You could pick out specific colors from the weave and take them onto the walls, into the soft furnishings, and even up onto the ceiling for a dramatic look,' Williamson says. 'You could also experiment with pattern, pairing a leopard print rug with a striking floral wallpaper or sofa.' For a Galecki-inspired starting point, I love this dusty pink rug, available via Wayfair below.

When looking at living room placement, designers often reiterate the same rule – keep the sofa away from the wall. This placement brings otherwise 'dead' space to life and creates breathing space that will make our room appear more spacious (even if it's just a couple of inches), and, is even said to make a space feel bigger. But just how does this rule translate to the bedroom? Johnny Galecki may have the answer.

We have already discussed how the Big Bang Theory actor's space, designed by Pierce & Ward, has already broken layout conventions by having the bathroom in the same room as the bed (yes, there is no wall between the two areas). However, Galecki has reimagined bedroom layout norms once more via the placement of his bed.

Unlike most bedrooms we see, Galecki has chosen to position his bed away from the back wall, more towards the center of his room. This creates space to walk around the bed and makes clever use of the central area that would otherwise go empty – something that may be particularly beneficial in smaller bedrooms (though working with a compact space is not the case in Galecki's gothic Nashville abode).

We love the unusual layout of Galecki's daring space (and it ticks all the boxes in terms of design), bedroom Feng Shui experts urge us also to consider what it means for our energy.

'In feng shui, the placement of your bed is crucial to one's well-being as it is believed to impact your health, relationships, and overall energy. Generally, it is recommended to place your bed against a solid wall to provide the energy of stability from behind, symbolizing support and security in all areas of life,' comments Energy Alignment Specialist, Erin Ratliff.

'Ideally, the bed would be in the "command position" so that you can easily see the door without being directly in line with it. This creates a comfortable, relaxed, and safe energy. Being in line with the door should be avoided as it would expose you to excessive chi (energy) flow, causing sleep disturbances.'

Ratliff adds that placing our beds away from the wall (and more towards the center of the room) also 'holds potential energy of vulnerability' and instability or the feeling of being 'out to sea.' However, with that said, there are some cases where we may be able to enjoy the practical (and aesthetic) benefits of this layout without negative impacts on our room's Feng Shui.

'More modern school of Feng Shui might offer some flexibility and room for interpretation here. Exceptions could be made for oversized bedrooms would could accommodate balancing, harmonizing design elements such as room dividers, large headboards, and cordless lamps for side tables,' Ratliff reassures.

'In feng shui, there are rarely strict rules and absolutes. The most important thing is to consider the unique energy flow and layout of a space as well as the inhabitant's personal energy needs.'

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Feng Shui aside, we can tap into Galecki's bedroom via his olive green color scheme. We love these perfectly-hued pieces that will work in any sized space (wherever we place our bed).

Monochromatic interiors often go one of two ways – either they come out over the top and overdone, or the final result is sleek and elevated. Getting the balance between bold color and timeless refinement down is more tricky than it looks, and bringing the all-one-hue look home isn't for the faint of heart. But when special attention is paid to rich textures, considered finishes, and every last detail, the monochrome look is truly hard to beat.

Johnny Galecki's luxurious bathroom, designed by Pierce & Ward, is a stunning example of a monochrome color scheme at its best. Making use of ambient lighting and glossy accent tile to complete the look, the Big Bang Theory actor's space is calming and classic.

'Johnny Galecki’s bathroom is a masterclass in monochrome design, showcasing how thoughtful choices in color, texture, and material can transform a simple bathroom into a serene and stylish retreat. This elegant space is not just about black and white; it's about the sophisticated dance of light, shadow, and texture that makes monochrome anything but boring,' says Nina Lichtenstein, founder and principal designer at her eponymous firm.

Johnny's bathroom features soft and sculptural light fixtures that illuminate a carefully selected and paired range of finishes. From simple wood paneling to shimmering, checkered tile layout, the light plays differently with every surface throughout the space. Interior designer Kathy Kuo says this combination of light and pattern creates 'visual contrast' that makes the monochrome look more appealing.

'Though the color palette itself is very minimal, the statement-making wall lighting and ceiling lighting create the illusion of a pop of warm color, and the checkered tiling on the lower part of the walls is bold and eye-catching without being overwhelming,' says Kathy. 'The metallic elements in the sink hardware and the towel rings add just the perfect pop of understated glamour.'

The bathroom isn't typically the most homey, inviting room of the home, but this space blends washroom functionality with comfort-forward design beautifully. Earthy colors found in the wood flooring, woven trash basket, and marble countertop, 'ground the design,' adds Nina.

'These natural textures provide warmth and add an organic feel to the otherwise structured and polished space. The variety of finishes – from the sleek metal of the sinks to the soft fabric of the pendant lights – creates a rich composition that is both visually appealing and tactilely engaging,' she says.

The actor's bathroom takes on a neutral, warm beige hue that leans a bit moody, but bathrooms can benefit from monochrome design schemes across the entire color wheel. If you're loving the all-one-hue look but don't want to go quite so dark, Helen Shaw – international director of marketing for Benjamin Moore – suggests a classic black-and-white palette to start.

'Embracing a monochromatic paint scheme is a fantastic way of creating a chic, minimalist look in a bathroom. If working with a smaller bathroom, embrace a clean white color scheme to open up the space, then use accents of black on paneling, skirting boards, or as a linear divide to the room to make a real statement,' says Helen.

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Johnny's bathroom proves that a carefully varied selection of textures and materials is the secret recipe for a monochromatic space that'll never date. By playing with light, shadow and earthy hues throughout the space, Pierce & Ward got the look down once and for all.

You only have to scroll two inches deep on Pinterest to realize pink and green is the dream color duo for all things interiors. It is not the most obvious pairing, seeing as the brash clash can be somewhat intimidating, but believe us when we say this one is worth a go. 

As in nature, shades of green sit easily with other colors and lend any space a calming tranquil feel. Partner it with soft, soothing pink and you have a dream combination that's perfect for rooms where you want to relax and create a mellow, calming atmosphere. The secret lies in getting your hues right: think warm, deep pink with a muddy, olive, or sage green. This might explain why interior design firm Pierce & Ward has used this bedroom color combination in actor Johnny Galecki's guest bedroom.

Imbued with the timeless beauty of the natural world, myriad greens make a soothing bedroom scheme when tempered with accents of warm pink.

Green is in general a calming and relaxing color for a guest bedroom. Being the color that represents nature, it’s one that makes us feel good and positive. ‘The poet and philosopher Goethe used to describe green as a useful color, a good color to have around,’ explains Francesca Wezel, founder of Francesca’s Paints. ‘Dark green is often used in traditional gentlemen’s clubs and libraries, goes well with wood and is a color that stimulates concentration and deep thinking.’ When it comes to choosing color combinations for rooms, Francesca adds, look to nature for inspiration. ‘Green looks marvelous with pink and pink-hued browns,' she adds.

‘Green and pink is one of our favorite combinations as it can work on so many levels,’ says Lucy Barlow, creative director of Barlow & Barlow. ‘You can use a strong emerald with a bubble gum pink, but you can also use a plaster pink mixed with a sludgy olive green to create a more sophisticated space.’ 

There is an exciting duality to this grown-up color pairing – it's soft, delicate yet strong and composed. The upshot is a calm, cocooning shade that's excellent for bedrooms, and indeed any room where you want a serene feel.

In Johnny Galecki's home, pattern also plays an important role in how these two colors are received. Be brave and clash stripes with florals, as Louisa Pierce and Emily Ward have done so here. Evocative of summer gardens, with joyful scenes of roses and peonies peppered against verdant foliage, floral prints are inextricably linked with a pink and green palette. They are guaranteed to bring a romantic feel to any space. Meanwhile, the stripes bring order and structure to a space and have the ability to redirect the eye upwards to the extraordinary bedroom ceiling.

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There is no doubt that neutrals have been the most popular tones for home use during the first decades of the 21st century – and perhaps for good reason. Many people feel most comfortable when surrounded by carefully balanced colors that create an understated environment and make few demands on the eye. 

Neutrals offer infinite possibilities for making spaces airy and relaxing, refined and timeless, or elegantly sophisticated. However, decorating with neutrals alone is not a fail-safe combination and it is all too easy to fall into the trap of using bland, depressing colors that are nothing like the complex palettes featured in Johnny Galecki's home.

Designed by interior design firm Pierce & Ward, Johnny Galecki's rustic kitchen features a quiet luxury color palette that beautifully blends warm and grounding beige, taupe, and ochre hues with an unexpected pale blue. This season we are drawn to color quiet luxury colors, but we are mixing it up with unexpected color combinations for rooms. 

It is safe to say that we've steered away from Millennial favorite gray and magnolia color palettes. These days, rich, tonal color schemes take center stage, and it is about time.

The interior design duo behind Pierce and Ward, Louisa Pierce and Emily Ward frequently throw out the rulebook with their penchant for unusual color combinations for rooms. Shades of beige, mustard, and brown are rarely the go-to paint and fabric colors of choice for the discerning decorator but, Pierce & Ward, who coined the term 'ugly colors', say every house needs a dose of underappreciated muddy tones to dial down the pretty and perfect. 

Along with these so-called ugly colors, pale blue is the one color trend having a moment in the spotlight. It is easily the tone of choice for many, from amateur decorators to interior designers as it's incredibly easy to live with and perfect for layering, believes Patrick O’Donnell of Farrow & Ball. ‘Pale blue also has positive attributes in color psychology, such as enthusiasm, sympathy, warmth, encouragement, spirituality, loyalty, and thoughtfulness.’ It is a good color to have around the home.

Pale blue makes for a calming backdrop for a busy kitchen which can be instantly warmed up with beige, ochre, oranges and yellows. ‘We are very careful when picking blues for a room that doesn’t get too much natural light to make sure that the undertones are not too gray,’ says Liv Wallers and Cath Beckett, co-founders of Yellow London.  

Calm, subtle and surprisingly versatile, this gentle shade – with a hint of steely gray – is the underdog of 2024's biggest color stories.

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Inspired by the natural world, olive green is restful with a touch of heritage. Strong yet soothing, it brings an enveloping feel but can also sit quietly and allow bold furniture to shine. But this adaptable green fell out of favor in recent years, with more people preferring to use dark, forest green instead. However, olive hues are back, and this outdated color trend has had a welcome renaissance. 

Green is in general a calming and relaxing color. Being the color that represents nature, it is one that makes us feel good and positive. The poet and philosopher Goethe described green as a useful color, a good color to have around. Olive green, in particular, is entwined with the permanence and beauty of nature and is a timeless choice for interior decorating that shows no signs of abating.

In addition to its mood-enhancing properties, olive green is loved by interior designers for its versatility. Restful and calm, it works in any room and can be paired with many other colors. This might explain why interior design firm Pierce & Ward has used this color in actor Johnny Galecki's main bedroom. Often described as an 'ugly color', olive green is a rich, earthy antidote to the sugary pastel hues we've seen lately. After all, every house needs a dose of underappreciated muddy tones to dial down the pretty and perfect. 

Peruse the paint cards and you will find no one olive green the same, yet all are undeniably soothing. ‘This shade has a serene and classic feeling, combining effortlessly with an array of colors, from delicate pinks to sunny yellows, to provide countless decorating options,’ says John Smigielski, marketing director at Linwood.

‘This tone of green, which is both a subdued yet lively color, for me is a neutral. It is a great backdrop for any interior and works well for displaying art, as well as in more relaxing rooms, such as bedrooms’ explains Birdie Fortescue. 

‘It will complement both warm and cool tones, allowing it to serve as a subtle backdrop, or take on a more prominent role in the overall color scheme,’ adds Nicole Salvesen, co-founder and senior designer at Salvesen Graham. ‘We often suggest colors to clients that aren’t too true and which are more knocked back in their pigmentation; olive green is a great example of this, making it easy to scheme with.’

This is a wonderful color that works well all through the year and is ideal if you are trying to bring an element of nature or a heritage feel into a more contemporary city home. It’s a restful and calming shade that works wonders on bedroom walls. Galecki's bedroom is a testament to its soothing qualities. 

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If you prefer to introduce color through fabrics, papers, furnishings and accessories, there is no shortage of designs available, with olive green continuing to feature heavily in collections. Checks and stripes in olive green are a country staple; alternatively, choose from a wealth of small- to large-scale botanical designs to continue the natural theme.

Finding the right kitchen color schemes and combinations you'll love for years to come has never been more important, with the kitchen now a multi-purpose room designed as much for living as it is for cooking. And, the best, most beautiful kitchens don't just stick with one kitchen color scheme either. A thoughtful, considered approach, using two or three key colors is often best when perfecting color pairings. 

Big Bang Theory's Johnny Galecki is no stranger to using statement color creatively. Designed by interior design firm Pierce & Ward, Galecki's eclectic, maximalist home in Nashville, Tennessee, is a testament to that. The kitchen, crafted to harmonize with its environment, features a monochrome color scheme of yellow and brown. Warm and enchanting in every way, this earthy pairing is one of the best color combinations for kitchens. 

When decorating for warmth and comfort, color is a transformative tool. In this modern rustic kitchen, the designers have borrowed inspiration from nature's seasonal spectrum of earthy tones to create a warm and welcoming space. 

If you had told me a few years ago that I would be singing the praises of a yellow and brown color combination, I would have scoffed at that suggestion. However, after the turmoil of a pandemic and the lingering uncertainty in the world, I've turned my attention towards comforting color schemes that soothe, ground, and nurture.

‘Tell someone you are painting a room brown and watch them recoil in horror,' says Sarah Brown, director, of Sarah Brown Interiors. 'However, this much-maligned color is a great backdrop for accessories in brighter colors, especially pastel yellow, or creamy beige.’ 

Considered a dark neutral, earthy brown is grounding but also has an elegance that is truly sophisticated. Versatile, it can be striking on its own or allow other hues to stand proud. Being polychromatic, brown goes with everything, but in deeper, very rich hues it is particularly good at flattering beautiful, yellow and terracotta hues, as shown in Galecki's home.

Decorating with yellow is a wonderful antidote to subdued browns and beiges. ‘Yellows work fantastically well with salvaged timber and brickwork – they bring out all the warmth,' says Maria Speake, founder, of Retrouvius. 'It can evoke a happy, warm and mood-enhancing feeling.' 

We’re seeing a resurgence of more earthy tones and color combinations for rooms. Rustic hues work charmingly in period properties that have an archival-inspired interior as they have natural dyes that work perfectly alongside more warming and cocooning tones. Galecki's kitchen is the perfect space for hunkering down at home, come rain or shine. 

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Big Bang Theory's Johnny Galecki is a fan of eclectic interior design, maximalism, and bold color choices, and none more so than in his home library. Eye-catching and enchanting in every way, red is one of the most irresistible colors known to man.

There are many options when it comes to decorating with red. A passionate and life-enhancing color, red room ideas offer a luxurious bank of positive energy. Whether you highlight a design scheme with touches of carefully chosen accessories or paint walls floor to ceiling in a deep shade of this versatile color, it can transform interiors and create different moods, from refined to playful, depending on its application.

In Galecki's home, designed by interior design firm Pierce & Ward, the walls, including the fifth wall, have been color-drenched in a vivid red hue. Color drenching refers to using one color, or its tonal variants, in a big way. 

‘A “drench” can be a strong, confident look with the benefit of unifying the architecture with the various elements of the room,’ explains Merlin Wright, design director, Plain English. ‘This homogenizing effect helps conceal irregularities in older properties, and in smaller rooms can disguise the room’s edges creating an illusion of space.’

It is a paint trend that should be considered carefully before committing, but done right, a home library color-drenched in red, can be visually striking and immersive. 

With bold colors, it is time well spent to consider how you react to the color and how it makes you feel. There is often a clue in our wardrobes as to which colors we lean towards. However, while we can change our outfits, we can’t so easily make that change with our interiors. 

Red rooms can be too intense for some people. It reminds us of danger and is considered one of the most stressful colors in history, and a color that makes you angry. It is strong, aggressive, and stimulating, which is why it is often used in warning signs and traffic signals. Physically, red can induce reactions in the body that are similar to stress responses, such as increased heart rate, heightened senses, and higher body temperature. 

However, despite this, red is enigmatic, and strong, and can be used to great effect, and many designers agree. 

‘A color like this feels both cozy and uplifting,' says Natasha Greig, director, of Veere Grenney Associates. 'It has great depth, so when used in small rooms all over the walls, it makes the room feel more generous. For our work as designers, it is a perfect backdrop to almost all colors.’ 

Brandon Schubert, director, of Brandon Schubert Studio believes that red color-drenching spaces work wonders in his client's homes:  ‘I love deep red hues and use them often in my projects,' he says. 'It’s a color that can take on loads of different attitudes depending on what you pair it with. It’s that versatility that makes deep rusty reds a perfect choice for joinery, ceilings, and even furniture.’ 

‘We have been using red to decorate the walls of our homes from the beginning of human existence, and that doesn't show signs of fading.

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Experimenting with red is simple with the right products. We love these picks that tap into the look (and work in almost every space). 

Best known for his role as Leonard on the hit sitcom The Big Bang Theory, Johnny Galecki purchased the Nashville home in 2018 to provide a home for his family, away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, and curate a home that could house his entire collection of maximalist treasures and curios. 

Where minimalism champions stripped-back design, the philosophy behind maximalism is that less really isn’t more; in fact, the busier the better. The aesthetic of excess, maximalist decor ideas has found favor among interior brands and designers in recent times, but the principle is nothing new.

Throwing the entire color and pattern book at a room is very now, with everyone's mood boards heaving with flamboyant florals, bold stripes, global ikats, and block prints. More recently, style mavens are curating lived-in spaces that embrace the excess. If you love the 'more is more' interior design trend, I'd wager you're already a little max in your tastes, too.

The actor tapped interior design firm Pierce & Ward to transform his living room into a treasure trove of eclectic colors, mismatched furniture and offbeat accessories. The final result is truly outstanding and individual.

In a conversation with Architectural Digest, Galecki spoke about wanting to embrace the old. 'While most remodels want to make the old new, our goal was very much the opposite,' he said. 'Sadly, much modern workmanship and materials simply don’t compare to that of a hundred years ago.'

His love of bygone curated elegance emboldened Louisa Pierce and Emily Ward of Pierce & Ward to create the maximalist living room we see before us. However, despite the eccentric look, the overall scheme is cohesive and the room color ideas, chosen to reflect nature's earthy palette, harmonize beautifully in this comforting and cocooning haven. 

Recreating a maximalist look in your own home is easier than you think. 'There are no rules to pattern or color mixing – the more eclectic the collection, the more interesting and fabulous it will be,' says Anna Spiro, interior designer. 'Select a range of different textiles, patterns and colors. Put into the mix, for instance, a large floral fabric, a small floral, a stripe and a geometric textile or two.'

Ann Grafton, creative and managing director, of GP&J Baker is a champion of clashing pattern and color to create a bespoke style: 'Layering pattern on pattern creates a rich, maximalist look,' she says. 'Maximalism tends to be most successful when the patterns used share a color palette. Try using several designs in a similar tone but vary the scales of the patterns by combining large statement prints with smaller block prints, to create a layered scheme.'

The key is repetition in interior design, scale and form. 'Hitting the same print a few times within an interior is crucial,' says Sean Symington, director of Sean Symington Design. 'I love using the same fabric for different applications. Scale is equally as important. I think it is important to play with varying scaled patterns within a room.' 

Finally, form is probably the most important rule of pattern mixing. Nothing makes us more excited than seeing a bold geometric next to a feminine floral. This contrast is key, and Galecki's living room is a perfect example of this style.

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A space rarely leaves us speechless, but this just might be the one. It's bold, it's green, and it's theatrical: it's John Galecki's mansion. 

A peek into the living room shows the dramatic space filled with warm textures and classic patterns alongside modern black-and-white photographs. The rich living room seems almost impossible to place in time; an 18th-century wagon wheel chandelier hangs comfortably over an art deco pool table and an antique oriental rug, while a postmodern feather chandelier lights up the hallway in the background. The beautiful transitional design created by Pierce and Ward leads the eye all around the room for a stunning effect.

'WOW, this is one sexy, moody magnificent home! My eyes are overwhelmed with so many beautiful places to look,' says Jove Meyer, NYC-based interior designer of the green living room.

However, despite the boldness of the space, the green walls and natural floors help to keep it grounded. Jove says, 'The wide plank wooden floors are the perfect tone and neutral base for the rest of the design to shine from. Next, my eye goes to the green paint that warms the room and leads up the tall ceilings to meet more patterns in the wallpaper there.'

Jennifer Ebert, digital editor at Homes & Gardens, adds: 'Though John Galecki's home is filled with pattern, texture, and color, I wouldn't call it "busy." The muted tones and unifying quality of the wallpaper against the ceiling give it a sophisticated, antique feel. He has expertly demonstrated how to decorate with antiques while maintaining a contemporary energy.'

The styling of antique furniture with modern art furthers the sophistication of the space. Jove says, 'Layered on the wood is a gorgeous rug that brings in a fantastic pattern that leads us to this fantastic chrome pool table in the center of the room. The oversized iconic portrait of rock and roll legend Keith Richars, shot by Stephanie Pfriender Stylander, and Bardot, shot by Terry O’Neil, pop not only because of their large size and black and white tones but because they are striking with the eye contact and smoke.'

He continues, 'We cannot ignore the fabulous details like the fringe at the bottom of the chairs and the fluorescent light in the next room over. There is such a great blend of whimsy and moody that go together beautifully!'

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While creating transitional style can come with growing pains, it's a wonderful technique for creating truly unique spaces.