Much of the credit can be given to its whipstitched borders: a Western-adjacent detail I clocked at a high-end residence during a trip to Mexico City, and have occasionally spotted inside the lobbies of carefully curated boutique hotels. The embellishment is usually stitched in calfskin or crisp linen, but Shea McGee's Target collection has made the look more affordable with a cotton-poly blend. And let me just say: that $20 Empire shade has no business looking this expensive.

Elsewhere, paper-thin pleats on table lamps and lace-cut-like filigree on task lights are equally impressive. Some pieces (including a ceramic table lamp that, frankly, should’ve been gatekept) are already gone. But several covetable lighting ideas remain up for grabs – for now, that is.

Whether you’re swapping a full fixture or just mixing and matching bases and shades, take it from someone who shops professionally: move fast. Because once TikTok finds them, they’ll be triple the price on eBay – and trust me, you’ll wish you didn’t hesitate.

If you’re into Shea McGee’s Threshold line for Target, wait until you see what she actually lives with. Her McGee & Co. collection is her namesake counterpart brand – and these 15 pieces all have a place in her own home.

You see, the best outdoor furniture should be transportative by design. Through both style and comfort, it can have the power to make your backyard look and feel like the most private, 5-star resort. Of course, luxury outdoor furniture doesn't come cheap, especially the styles that look the most resort-like. However, thanks to Lulu and Georgia’s Summer Sale on outdoor furniture, you can get the best and most comfortable pieces at a decent discount.

I’m always eager to turn my backyard into a vacation-worthy retreat. So below, find nine of the most stylish outdoor furniture pieces from Lulu and Georgia’s summer sale to give your patio a resort-like feel that's on trend for summer 2025.

The Lulu and Georgia summer sale only runs until July 7th, so be sure to get the best resort-worthy outdoor furnishings while they’re still available.

Looking for more ways to decorate your patio for less? We’ve got you covered. Find our patio furniture deals – from bar carts to side tables and couch sets, these outdoor deals are worth your attention.

The Jade Mirror, a totally classic, timeless piece, is down from $428 to just $129.97. That's a huge 70% off, a massive saving of $298.03. This isn't a tiny mirror either; it would be ideal above a bathroom vanity or a console in an entryway. I plan to hang mine above the fireplace.

The summer sale event at Anthropologie is one of the best Fourth of July sales happening right now, with 50% off all sale items or up to 40% off full price pieces, so there are some massive, unmissable discounts.

The reviews are glowing for the Jade Mirror too, with 4.5 stars. One reviewer notes, 'the shape is so unusual and simple' and I think that's spot on. It reminds me of a mirror I picked up years ago at an antique store. It has a vintage style to it with the elegant, long, slightly tapered shape and curved edges, but it's simple enough that it would work with any style. If you like a transitional style, that blends old and new, this would work particularly well.

There's plenty more unmissable deals happening at Anthropologie right now, but here are a few more of my favorites that I don't want to gatekeep:

Fourth of July weekend always sees some major sales, but it never gets better than a sale on sale event – the pieces are already discounted! Anthropologie does note that the sale on sale items are final, so no exchanges or returns, just look out for that 'final sale' note when you purchase. You also won't see the full discounts until you add an item to your cart.

So it is just my luck that one of the biggest outdoor decorating trends for summer 2025 (and beyond) is wrought iron furniture. Timeless, classic, and totally chic, this vintage-style metal work furniture has made it global and is the perfect way to create an old-world, charming look in your backyard.

I've spent a little time finding a select few of my favorite pieces on the market to help you style an outdoor space that feels like a scene straight from a postcard.

Up there with some of the best outdoor furniture, wrought iron brings a uniquely architectural elegance – think curves, scrolls, and waves – to your outdoor living room or outdoor dining room spaces in a way that rattan or teak can’t quite achieve.

And I'm not alone in this obsession. Designers are also on board, just take a peek at Lulu and Georgia's x Sarah Sherman Samuel collaboration for plenty of shapely metal furniture finds in striking black iron that feels super chic next to her signature stripes and playful prints. Alternatively, for a softer look, Jake Arnold's outdoor collection at Crate & Barrel offers a range of romantic hairpin steel furniture finished in soft sage green.

Of course, you can also shop totally vintage. I picked up a gorgeous 6-piece white wrought iron dining set for just shy of $250 at an antique fair that has well and truly transformed my patio (and my backyard BBQs), you've just got to pray to the thrifting gods for a bargain. And don’t shy away from a little rust or wear – patina adds authenticity and a sense of story.

Shop wrought iron patio furniture

Unlike some trends that fade after a few seasons, wrought iron garden furniture holds its own, both in durability and design. Whether it’s an ornate bistro table or a scrolled bench tucked under an arbor, these pieces feel storied, romantic, and refreshingly untrendy. Here are a few of my favorites.

There's something so lovely about hosting at home in summer, and to do so in style with pieces full of history and character is the cherry on top. If you're looking to create a stylish slice of Europe at home, perhaps this is the trend for you.

And if you're looking for garden decorating ideas that feel a little closer to home, check out this Hamptons-esque, Nancy Meyers style patio set.

And what better way to give your home and garden a timeless update than to decorate with antique and vintage finds, whether it's a beautiful wooden coffee table, a mid-century chair, or even a vintage prep table for your kitchen.

I've found the best sales happening near you, from Brimfield Antique Flea Market, which only takes place three times a year, to the coveted Brooklyn Flea that always warrants a visit. And with even more dealers and sellers offering outdoor finds, it's the perfect opportunity to get your backyard ready for alfresco hosting and dining.

Find your local antique fairs and shows

If you are looking for shows, markets, and sales in your local area, select your region below for a tailored list:

Antiques and vintage sales in the Northeast

Antiques and vintage sales in the Southeast

Antiques and vintage sales in the Midwest

Antiques and vintage sales in the Southwest

Antiques and vintage sales in the West

Top tip: Always make sure you check the organizers' websites or social media before traveling to antiques and vintage fairs – they can sometimes be canceled last minute for unexpected circumstances. They will also have information on parking, amenities, and whether the vendors accept credit/debit cards or cash only.

Antiques and vintage fairs in the Northeast

Brooklyn Flea

When: Every Saturday & Sunday
Time: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Where: DUMBO Archway, 80 Pearl Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Entry fee: Free

Brooklyn Flea is New York's most iconic flea market, so it's probably not surprising that it's become a coveted hotspot for unique vintage finds. Large furniture items are off the table here – no one wants to navigate the subway with an armchair in tow – but there are plenty of sellers offering vintage artwork, home trinkets, and quirky pre-loved ornaments and statues for your home. Make sure you bring a big bag or trolley to carry all of your finds – it's rare that anyone leaves this vintage sale empty-handed.

Brimfield Antique Flea Market

When: 8th-13th July
Time: Most vendors open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Where: 35 Palmer Road, Brimfield, MA 01010
Entry fee: Free

One of the oldest (and perhaps largest) outdoor antique flea markets in the United States, the Brimley Antique Flea Market is one you don't want to miss. The event, a six-day shopping extravaganza that takes place just three times per year, sees the small New England town taken over by an array of sellers, guaranteeing a wonderful day out with plenty of treasures for your home to be found.

East Hampton Design & Antiques Show

When: 11th-13th July
Time: 10:00 am until 6:00 pm Saturday, and until 5:00 pm Sunday
Where: Mulford Farm, 10 James Lane, East Hampton, NY 11937
Entry fee: $18

One of the most sophisticated antiques events on the calendar, the East Hampton Design & Antiques Show is held every year as a benefit for the East Hampton Historical Society, and promises some beautiful antiques and Mid-century home decor. There are always fine examples of antiques here, from wood furniture and bust statues to French fabrics and ornate chandeliers.

Jubilee Park Flea & Collectible Market

When: 20th July
Time: 9:00 am until 5:00 pm
Where: 936 Allwood Rd & the corner of Clifton Ave, Clifton, NJ 07012
Entry fee: TBC

You are less likely to find larger furniture items at Jubilee Park Flea & Collectible Market, but there are plenty of home decor and accessories, from vintage trays and fabrics to retro lighting and old-school clocks. It's a truly eclectic event, so expect to be surprised by what you find.

Antiques and vintage fairs in the Southeast

The Raleigh Market

When: Every Saturday and Sunday throughout July
Time: 9:00 am until 5:00 pm
Where: 4285 Trinity Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607
Entry fee: Free

Held at the state Fairgrounds, The Raleigh Market has been running for over 50 years – and for good reason. Varied and eclectic perfectly describes the sale, with a collection of items from vintage fabrics to antique art and even quirky home decor you won't find anywhere else. Parking and admission are free, and there are plenty of food trucks on site, making it the perfect day or weekend trip.

West Palm Beach Antiques Festival

When: 4th-6th July
Time: 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Friday and Saturday, until 4:00 pm Sunday
Where: 9067 Southern Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL 33411
Entry fee: $11-$25, depending on admission type

Enjoy a sunny 4th of July weekend at West Palm Beach Antiques Festival, Florida's largest antique festival, located in the South Florida Fairgrounds. This sale has plenty to offer visitors looking to pick up some unique antique furniture and decor pieces, including silverware and garden furniture. Perfect for a seasonal home and backyard upgrade.

Scott Antique Market

When: 10th-13th July
Time: 10:00 am until 5:00 pm Thursday, 9:00 am until 6:00 pm Friday and Saturday, 10:00 am until 4:00 pm Sunday
Where: Atlanta Expo Centers, 3650 & 3850 Jonesboro Rd. SE, Atlanta, Georgia 30354
Entry fee: $5

You'll find plenty of antique and interior decor at Atlanta's Scott Antique Market, which sees the expo centers filled with vendors from around the country. Make sure you bring cash with you to this one, as tickets at the gate cannot be purchased by card. Parking is free, so you can spend as much time as you want across the three day market.

Nashville Flea Market

When: 25th-27th July
Time: 8:00 am until 5:00 pm Friday and Saturday, until 4:00 pm Sunday
Where: 401 Wingrove Street, Nashville, TN 37203
Entry fee: Free

A visit to Nashville Flea Market is almost a local tradition, having started in 1969. Held on the fourth Sunday of every month, you can expect to find an array of antique homeware, furniture, ceramics, and collectibles among the 300+ vendors and stalls. It's a must-visit if you are in the area – if you're arriving by car, there is a $10 parking fee.

The DC Big Flea Antiques Market

When: 26th-27th July
Time: 9:00 am until 6:00 pm Saturday, 11:00 am until 5:00 pm Sunday
Where: Dulles Expo Center, 4320 Chantilly Shopping Center, Chantilly, VA 20151
Entry fee: $10 for the whole weekend

Whether you're on the hunt for fine antiques or more rustic vintage painted furniture, The DC Big Flea Antiques Market, the Mid-Atlantic's largest antiques flea market, has it all. From French artworks and ornate frames to quirky ornaments and colored glass, there's something for every style and space here.

Antiques and vintage fairs in the Midwest

Petoskey Antiques Show

When: 5th-6th July
Time: 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Saturday, 10:00 am until 4:00 pm Sunday
Where: Emmet County Fairgrounds, 1129 Charlevoix Ave, Petoskey, MI 49770
Entry fee: $10, under 16s go free

What could be better than celebrating the July 4th weekend by heading to Michigan's beloved Petoskey Antiques Show? Over 120 dealers will fill the fairgrounds, offering antique furniture, collected decor, and miscellaneous treasures you simply can't resist. This one is a great opportunity to find some great pieces for your backyard, too.

Tri-Sate Antique Market

When: 6th July
Time: 6:00 am until 3:00 pm
Where: Lawrenceburg, IN Fairgrounds
Entry fee: $5

The Tri-State Antique Market has been running since the 1980s, so it's a well-established and much-loved event. Held on the first Sunday of every month, the market welcomes over 125 vendors selling everything from collectibles to decor, including antique garden furniture and accessories. There is free parking, restrooms, and plenty of food trucks on site.

Sunday at Sandwich

When: 13th July
Time: 7:00 am for early bird admission, 8:00 am-3:00 pm for regular
Where: Sandwich Fairgrounds, 1401 Suydam Road, Sandwich, IL 6054
Entry fee: $10 early bird, $5 regular

Sunday at Sandwich is held every second Sunday from May to October, so it's one worth visiting while it's in season. This is a great choice for a fun-filled family day out, with plenty of vendors selling new and preloved buys, as well as lots of vintage home goods and decor like tins, glassware, globes, and trinkets.

Green Bay Vintage Market

When: 24th July
Time: TBC
Where: 990 Tony Canadeo Run, Green Bay, WI 54304
Entry fee: TBC

The Green Bay Vintage Market began in 2021 to create a space for small vintage businesses, and it's been thriving ever since. Most noticeably, the vintage home goods on offer here are perfect for bringing a timeless feel to your home without the commitment of larger furniture items. This market has a few different locations, so make sure you check their website for a confirmed location.

Antiques and vintage fairs in the Southwest

First Monday Canton

When: 3rd-6th July
Time: Dawn to dusk
Where: 800 First Monday Lane, Canton, TX 75103
Entry fee: Free

Hosting 5,000 vendors spread over 450 acres, it's clear to see why the First Monday flea is self-described as 'the world's largest flea market.' There's a great range of antiques and vintage pieces here for anyone looking to update their interiors, including furniture, lighting, and even wall decor. There is plenty of parking around the market for $10 per vehicle. Quite a few vendors are cash only, so keep that in mind when you visit.

Sweet Salvage Vintage & Home Decor Occasional Marketplace

When: 17th-20th July
Time: 1:00 am - 6:00 pm
Where: Phoenix, Arizona. Contact the organizers for an exact location
Entry fee: Free

This month's 4-day Sweet Salvage Vintage & Home Decor Occasional Marketplace sale is back, and it promises plenty of beautiful homeware buys. July's theme is 'cool and collected,' focusing on inspiring vintage finds to create a serene staycation vibe at home. Parking and entry are both free, making it an affordable day out, unless you end up finding plenty of interior decor you just can't resist.

Melrose Vintage Market

When: 20th July
Time: 10:00 am until 3:00 pm
Where: 525 S. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ
Entry fee: $5

Melrose Vintage Market has become a regular event, now held on the fourth Sunday of each month. July's market has a retro summer market theme with an array of vintage items from fashion and jewelry to homeware and accessories. While you can certainly pick up some beautiful pieces here, the vendors vary, so you aren't always guaranteed a large amount of home buys. However, there is live music, brunch, and free tote bags.

Antiques and vintage fairs in the West

Alameda Point Antiques Faire

When: 6th July
Time: First entry at 6:00 am, no entry after 3:00 pm
Where: 2900 Navy Way (at Main Street), Alameda, CA 94501
Entry fee: From $5 to $20, depending on time of entry, free for children under 12

Over 800 dealers gather on the first Sunday of every month for the Alameda Point Antiques Faire, and here are some truly special antique and vintage designs to get your hands on. Tickets can be purchased with cash, and parking is free with a shuttle to take visitors from the car park to the event entrance.

Beaumont Outdoor Flea Market

When: Every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday throughout July
Time: 6:00 am until 2:00 pm
Where: 1501 E 6th Street, Beaumont, CA 92223
Entry fee: Free on Wednesdays, 50¢ on Saturdays, $1 on Sundays

Held three days a week throughout the whole month, you can be sure to find refreshed stock every time you visit Beaumont Outdoor Market. There's a mix of new and antique items, so it's almost a one-stop shop for all of your interior needs. There are always food vendors on site, as well as free parking and restrooms.

Santa Monica Airport Antique & Vintage Market

When: 6th & 27th July
Time: 7:00 am to 3:00 pm
Where: Interim Open Space, 3233 Donald Douglas Loop, Santa Monica, CA 90405
Entry fee: $5

Hosting regular vendors who know and love the market, Santa Monica Airport Antique & Vintage Market is a must-visit for antique furniture, accessories, and unique home decor, from fabrics and art to rugs and wooden furniture. Parking is free, and even your pets are welcome at this market!

Rose City Vintage Market

When: 12th-13th July
Time: 8:00 am until 5:00 pm Saturday, 10:00 am until 4:00 pm Sunday
Where: Portland Expo Center, 2060 N Marine Dr, Portland, OR 97217
Entry fee: $10-$30 depending on admission, $4 for children aged 12-17, under-12s free

Rose City Vintage Market boasts plenty of vintage delights for shoppers. Combined with an outdoor flea, you can expect to find an array of pieces, from art, antiques, and Mid-century modern designs to Americana and old-school memorabilia. Perfect for anyone looking to give their home a retro flair.

Rose Bowl Flea Market

When: 13th July
Time: 5:00 am - 8:45 am VIP, 9:00 am general admission
Where: 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena, CA 91103
Entry fee: $20 VIP, $13 general

Beaumont's sister market, the Rose Bowl Flea Market has been running for over 50 years and has become a coveted event in the West. It's a great choice for sourcing a truly unique range of home buys, including antique and vintage furniture and decor finds. There is plenty of parking, too.

Antiques and vintage fair shopping tips and essentials

It's important to arrive at antiques shows prepared. You might be used to online shopping, but this is a totally different experience. So, here are our tips for making sure you look like a pro – even if it's your first time at a fair!

Firstly, make sure you measure before you buy. And we're not just talking about the antique furniture that's piqued your interest – plan ahead by measuring the areas of your home you are considering for the piece. This way, you know what will or won't fit before you invest.

Different markets have different rules, so it's always useful to bring cash. A lot of dealers and sellers only accept cash, as do some of the fairs themselves for entry and tickets. Using cash is also a great way to stick to a budget if you are prone to overspending!

A step many people overlook, but that is one of the most important, you really need to come prepared for how much you plan to buy. If you are looking for large furniture items, make sure you're vehicle is big enough, or hire a van for the day. Some dealers will be able to arrange delivery for items, but it's worth checking ahead of time.

Don't forget to think about how you plan to carry all of your buys, even if you're just picking up small decor items. It's always a good idea to bring a foldable trolley or wagon, so you can pull your buys along with no fuss! This Collapsible Wagon Cart from Amazon is a great choice.

Whether you're searching for the most popular pieces to buy at an antique fair or you've been inspired by collectibles interior designers look out for when antique shopping, these fairs, shows, and markets are the best spots to find unique items. And if you're new to the world of buying old, experts will have plenty of tips on how to start an antiques collection.

As it turns out, this sofa trend is quite literal. A boneless couch is, quite simply, a couch without bones – no visible frame, no rigid shape, just pure, pillowy form. ‘The term boneless couch might sound like it belongs in a culinary conversation, but this furniture phenomenon has become one of the most polarizing trends in interior design,’ says interior designer Nina Lichtenstein.

Often lightweight and sold in flat-pack boxes, this new furniture trend is a shapeshifter. Once freed from their packaging, they expand on their own – much like a mattress-in-a-box. And while admittedly slightly absurd sounding in theory, logistically, they're a godsend.

‘For apartment dwellers and commitment-averse millennials, they offer a low-maintenance, no-fuss alternative to traditional, bulky seating,’ Nina explains. As any New Yorker like myself can attest – a sofa you don’t have to saw in half to get up the stairs is basically priceless.

@sierra_ort

♬ luxurious x be your girl jersey mix - VIP

Of course, when something sounds this good, there’s usually a catch. Some of the boneless couches I have come across can look a little, well, cheap – and with some Amazon versions going for around $300, it's because they are exactly that. But as anyone who’s ever lived with an ugly sofa knows: cheap is fine, cheap-looking is the real crime, so I have done some digging to find some boneless couches that nail this trend and look chic.

In terms of styling, to prevent the interior design trend from appearing overly marshmallow-adjacent, Nina suggests anchoring the softness of the boneless sofa with structured accent – say, a sculptural lighting or a sharp-edged side table – for contrast.

So, are ‘boneless’ sofas here to stay? Nina thinks so. ‘At the end of the day, softness sells. Especially when the world outside feels anything but,' she says.

Ahead, the best Amazon boneless couches to build your own soft-sided sanctuary – and unlike that infamous boneless pizza, these actually deliver. In a box, no less.

There’s plenty more where that came from. Browse our edit of the best Amazon furniture finds ahead of Prime Day to get some equally chic, and affordable pieces.

Joanna started with an all-white box room that lacked character, divided by a pair of doors. She was tasked with creating two separate his and hers offices for a young couple with different interests and styles. She explains the project was about, 'Balancing two rooms – one that’s very masculine, and one that is very feminine.'

The result is two distinctly individual spaces. One is luxe, moody, and filled with old-world decor, and the other is refreshingly elegant and French-inspired, both representing the owners' contrasting personalities.

Joanna uses clever styling and a classic palette to make the two rooms feel connected, transforming a once neglected space into stylish studies. Plus, she's shared where to buy the key pieces from each space.

Before

His home office after

Despite the home offices being very different in style, Joanna uses rustic, vintage-inspired decor to give both spaces a similar sense of character and aged elegance.

Starting in his office, Joanna explains how she added character to the space. 'This was their formal living room, into the formal dining room. Literally just a white box with concrete floors. And now what you see is these warm laminate floors. After we applied the molding and this chair rail, we then painted it all one color and then added this beautiful wallpaper. The (Windsor Blue wallpaper available at Home Depot) is from my newest collection with York. I love how all of this really comes together. You have these layers, you have this texture.' These architectural touches frame the space and radiate grandeur, perfect for a refined study room.

The keywords for this room were Masculine & Moody, which this space certainly feels. But it's not without a softness and warmth too, mostly in thanks to the gallery wall

All good home office desk ideas feature some chic desk decor. Joanna scatters gold accents that contrast beautifully with the deep navy walls, like the brass calendar and tray.

Her home office after

Taking one space and dividing it into two, Joanna separates the rooms with a pair of doors. Although the two rooms are different, Joanna explains that you can blend the two spaces together using the right decor, common colors, and good styling. 'Then you step from dark to light, and you see how these patterns and colors and even the styling all tie back to each other. You can really blend that beautifully, even in the difference, even in the contrast, how do you tie it together so it doesn't seem so different?'

The keywords from her office could not have been more different from Masculine & Moody, for this space the brief was Happy French Girl.

Starting with the wallpaper idea, Joanna says, 'In here I used my wallpaper, this is French Linen Stripe from Magnolia. We did some trim work on the ceiling and painted it Sunday Stroll from Magnolia. Taking their very basic, normal, hollow core door, we added this applied molding to make it feel just a little more elevated.' Like his office, her office features similar architectural features that create a sense of character.

Like all good rug trends, this piece helps bring warmth and pattern into the room. Joanna says, 'I really wanted to ground the space with this beautiful patterned textured rug.' The vintage-style furniture gives the space some patina and personality. 'These sweet, simple chairs just help create a moment where they can drink coffee, tea, and connect.'

There are plenty of thoughtful details in her office, but the personal shadow box is an intentional touch that nods back to the client. Joanna says, 'The story here was she wanted it to be very French-inspired. This is one of my favorite things to add to any space, just a collection of stories and intention that makes the room feel a lot more meaningful.'

Joanna makes the home office look beautiful with her signature elevated country style. It's obvious that the young couple has been considered right from the start, as Joanna nods to their personalities in small but mighty ways throughout the design.

This does mean each year I nail my patio set up, creating an outdoor living room oasis that I spend more time in than my indoor living room. But so far this summer, something has been missing.

This week, I have discovered exactly what it was – a hammock. And not just any hammock, a chic hammock from Lulu and Georgia. And bonus, right now it has 15% off and then an extra 20% off, which is part of their site-wide summer sale happening this week.

I have always loved lounging in a hammock on vacation, I can't believe it's taken me this long to bring one into my own patio. What it has added to the space is a more laid-back vibe. I have both a lounge area and an outdoor dining area in my backyard, both of which see heavy use, and hanging this hammock on the edge of the living area has almost created a whole new outdoor room.

It serves a different purpose from the other spaces; it's an escape for guests when they need it, and it's where I have found I am spending most of my time when I am in the backyard alone, too. It's the same relaxed feeling as lounging on an outdoor couch, but even more so. I feel like I am on vacation when I am gently swinging in this hammock with a book and iced coffee. A resort-like escape for $134.60? Yes please.

The Lulu and Georgia summer sale is filled with plenty more stylish pieces to update your patio, and your indoor rooms too. There's up to 30% off the whole site, but that's including sale items too so you can find some really good quality pieces at really reasonable prices right now, so be sure not to miss these offers while they last.

I've been quietly collecting vintage dog prints from thrift stores and flea markets for years, drawn to their character and charm. So when I saw that designer Shea McGee had included a sweet Pointer pup portrait in her new Fall collection at Target, I felt totally seen. And now I am seeing this adorable style of artwork everywhere, Anthropologie just did a whole collection too!

Taking to Instagram this week, Shea shared a playful video showing off her latest canine design. 'How cute is this little dog artwork? I love it so much,' she gushed. Little did she know, she was speaking something (or someone) into existence with this new product drop...

'This is the only dog I'll have in my home,' she jokes in the video, later revealing the real-life puppy they have just welcomed into their family. 'I once said the only dog I’d ever have in my home was the one in our new Target collection... and then came Gigi,' reads the caption. Gigi, in case you're wondering, is the McGee family's adorable new Cavapoo.

And while we can't all start manifesting puppies into existence via wall decor ideas, we can certainly join Shea in this oh-so-cute trend. The best part is, it feels super stylish too.

Dog art, especially when it’s in a vintage style, adds humor and heart without compromising on sophistication. Whether it’s a stately oil painting of a Labrador or a cheeky little pug in a baroque frame, these pieces have a way of drawing you in and making you smile.

Whether you're a fellow dog lover or simply want to bring a little nostalgic character to your walls, this unexpected design trend is proof that a home with heart (and a waggy tail) is always in style.

Below, I’ve gathered some of the best dog art pieces available right now – from affordable Amazon finds to Anthropologie’s unique picks that look straight out of an antique shop.

From affordable finds to hand-painted treasures, there’s a sweet dog wall art find out there to suit every style and every breed preference. And if you’re looking for advice on how to decorate with vintage art, check out our guide to sourcing and shopping like a pro.

There’s a timeless and effortless quality to the Nancy Meyers outdoor look, but thanks to those sprawling beachside homes and sun-drenched ranches, I didn’t think I could achieve the Nancy Meyers aesthetic in my small backyard. Until this surprisingly chic Amazon find proved me completely wrong.

Capturing the breezy elegance, charm, and relaxed-yet-refined aesthetic, this sweet Christopher Knight Patio Conversation Set from Amazon has brought some serious Meyers movie magic into my modest backyard.

If, like me, you've got a part-time job in stalking both Nancy Meyers' Instagram and her daughter Annie Meyers-Shyer's home renovation account, you'll know that the number one staple of a Meyers backyard is wicker.

I know Amazon likely isn't the first place you think of to shop for the best outdoor furniture, but let me tell you, with a little brand know-how and some serious scrolling, you'll be surprised by the best Amazon outdoor furniture pieces to be found.

The compact size and curvy silhouette of this set are what first caught my eye. With its rounded, woven chairs and shapely glass-topped table, it doesn’t overpower my small patio – but it does completely transform the feel of it. From morning coffees to evening wine chats, this bijou set has quickly become my favorite spot in the garden.

It’s proof that you don’t need a movie set or mansion to channel that iconic Nancy Meyers charm, just the right pieces and some big, blooming hydrangeas.

But of course, a new bistro set isn't the only key to achieving the Nancy Meyers backyard look. If you've got a little more space, try adding some classic teak pieces topped with crisp white cushions, rattan or white-washed wooden finds, and maybe bring in a few stripes too. Above all, opt for pieces that invite you to sit, sip, and lounge back in style.

It's the small outdoor decorating ideas that really bring the magic, so be sure to add some overflowing planters, a pretty patio umbrella, soft flowing lanterns, and a basket of blankets for impromptu picnics or late-night hosting.

If you're looking to add a few more Nancy-style Amazon finds to your basket, below are just a few of my favorites. And if you're patient, Amazon Prime Day is right around the corner with thousands of deals dropping on their first-ever 4-day sale starting July 8th.

Shop Nancy Meyers backyard buys at Amazon

This little Amazon wicker set may be simple, but it’s completely changed how I use and enjoy my patio, proving that you don’t need a massive backyard or a Hollywood budget to create something special. If you’ve been dreaming of creating a Nancy Meyers moment in your garden, hopefully, this is your sign that you can get the look no matter your patio size.

And if you're looking for some planting inspiration, check out Nancy Meyers' climbing plants porch design to help you create a whimsical wisteria moment.

While many color combinations feature complementary hues, those that sit opposite one another on the color wheel, resulting in a high-contrast look, pink and brown feel unexpectedly soft and harmonious when used together, shares designer Lynn Kloythanomsup of Landed Interiors: 'Brown and pink seem to work in harmony since they are adjacent on the color wheel. Pink is a tint of red, and brown is a shade of orange. Red and orange are next to each other on the color wheel, and are close in relationship.'

Here, I've rounded up my favorite rooms that reflect the on-trend (yet timeless) pink and brown color combination to inspire you to decorate with these two hues. From bathrooms to bedrooms, living spaces to dining rooms, these room color ideas offer inspiration for many spaces and design styles.

1. Ground a soft pink with dark brown accents

The best pink paints make a stylish wall color choice, but you may want to choose those that are pale to ensure a timeless look. In this cozy living room, Sherwin-Williams' Ivory Lace provides a touch of pink while working as a neutral. The ceiling beams were painted with Benjamin Moore's Bittersweet Chocolate, and together the two paint colors offer a pared-back take on this color combination.

'When it comes to rooms where pink and brown come together, we select pinks that are toned down or neutralized, and not necessarily bright or hot, so that they pair well with the many variations of brown,' explains the interior designer Lynn Kloythanomsup of San Francisco Bay and NYC-based Landed Interiors.

2. Make a bubblegum pink paint sophisticated with brown furniture

If you want to create more of a playful look, go for a bubblegum pink paint, such as Benjamin Moore's Yours Truly, which was used on the walls in this traditional living room. While the decor in this room reflects tradition, the pop of pink provides an unexpected contrast that keeps the space from feeling too serious.

Although colorful, this pink room feels perfectly balanced alongside the various brown tones through the rug, furniture, and fireplace. Lynn explains that undertones are an important consideration when choosing pink tones for this color combination:

'In our rooms, we're also looking at the undertone of colors to pair them together. We like to work with colors that have a muddy undertone, so even when our rooms are colorful, they share a common muted undertone, or an earthiness.'

3. Choose copper tones and pale pinks for a subtle look

While pink and brown can be a lively pairing, it can translate equally well to more refined tastes. 'Both pink and brown are highly versatile colors,' says interior designer Martin Horner of Soucie Horner. 'Put them together, and you have a classic juxtaposition of light and feminine with dark and masculine.'

In this relaxing bedroom, coppery brown tones are introduced with the drapes, balanced with the palest pink tones through the soft furnishings. 'The brown drapery fabric leans to the coppery side, so it has a glamorous, rather than heavy, feel. The pinks are as pale as can be, like soft English roses. At its core, this is a pink and brown room – but in a serene, sophisticated way, not a chocolate and bubblegum sort of way,' Martin adds.

4. Go for a soft brown on the walls with pink accents

Since brown is a neutral color, it works well as a wall color in many rooms. While chocolate brown paints lend themselves to color-drenching in small rooms for a cozy feel, choose lighter shades of brown for social spaces.

Here, Portola Paints' Antlers, a limewash paint, gives the walls an earthy and textural look. The pink tones repeated through various accents, including the rug, pillows, and drapes, add warmth and color to the room, yet the overall scheme feels calming and sophisticated.

'Brown and pink make a beautifully balanced pairing, especially in spaces where you want a softer, more inviting atmosphere,' says interior designer MK Smith of Smith Interior Design. 'The contrast between the two hues adds just enough visual interest while still keeping the mood warm and welcoming.'

5. Bring in pops of pink with wallpaper

Wallpaper ideas provide another way to bring the brown and pink color combination to life – a good choice if you want to create a maximalist look. Interior designer Nicole Lanteri, founder and principal designer at Nicole Lanteri Design, added drama to this dining room with a patterned wallpaper that features bold shades of pink, while brown was incorporated through the large walnut dining table.

'Given the room’s quirks – multiple entrances, off-center elements, and bold striped walls – we leaned into its uniqueness with a surrealist wallpaper and bold trim. Brown and pink layered in depth, contrast, and personality, making the space feel cohesive, moody, and welcoming,' Nicole comments.

6. Elevate a brown wooden vanity with pink Quartzite counters

In a powder room, brown and pink is a go-to color combination for adding warmth and creating a welcoming feel. For a timeless look, incorporate these two hues in muted tones through solid materials, as demonstrated here.

'In this powder room, a warm brown oak vanity and leather pendant anchor the space, while the striking Cosmopolitan Quartzite countertop catches focus,' explains designer Lucas Goldbach, partner and design director at En Masse Architecture & Design. 'The pink stone is warm but bold, while the brown and brass details ground the palette. Cool tones in the wallpaper and window trim add just enough contrast to let the pink and brown shine, creating a layered and enveloping experience.'

7. Introduce a third color for a bolder look

For a colorful and uplifting look, why not add a third color to your pink and brown scheme? Decorating with yellow, especially mustard tones, makes a wonderful addition to these two hues, adding more warmth and vibrancy, while feeling perfectly balanced.

'Instantly chic, a brown and pink combination is a classic way to layer a neutral with an element of playful color. In this space, the client's antique French bed was a must-use. To keep the space from feeling dark or dated by this oversized dark brown element, we used pink, peach, and mustard tones, immediately giving the room an elevated yet playful vibe,' say interior designers Mallory Robins and Elizabeth Bennett of Kobel + Co.

8. Pair wood tones with dark pinks

If you enjoy decorating with bold tones, a vibrant shade of pink pairs wonderfully with warm wood tones, adding depth and richness to a room. In this living room designed by Los Angeles-based interior designer Jessica Nicastro, the bold pink tones of the artwork and flowers inject vibrancy into the room, which otherwise feels fairly neutral.

'Brown and pink are both complementary colors in the sense that when they are on their own, they are a pop in a room, but when put together, they harmonize without competing or clashing,' explains Jessica.

When decorating with bold tones like this, you don't need to use much; even a subtle addition through artwork or soft furnishings can transform the space.

9. Use pink in place of neutrals in a bathroom

Bathroom color ideas often stick to a palette of neutral tones such as whites and creams, but soft pink makes a much warmer and more welcoming alternative. Paired with wood tones, a soft pink color scheme gives this functional room a much cozier feel, and you shouldn't be afraid to use this soft hue all over, as seen in this bathroom designed by Kristina Khersonsky of Los Angeles design firm STUDIO KEETA.

'The combination of pink and brown offers warmth while striking a visually appealing contrast,' says Kristina. 'Brown brings a natural, relaxed sense, while pink brings a freshness and lightness. The unlikely pairing is grounding and visually interesting.'

Shop the pink and brown decor edit

Whether you're inspired to paint your walls pink or are looking for a more subtle way to bring this color combination to life, we've rounded up our favorite brown and pink decor picks for you to shop.

Pink and brown work effortlessly together, adding coziness and warmth to a room while maintaining a timeless quality. Whether you choose playful shades of bright pink or keep things more neutral with pale tones, this is a color combination that translates to many decorating styles.

If you're looking for more color inspiration for your home, take a look at the unexpected color combinations that work surprisingly well.

Known for her modern rustic style, Amber is the founder of ultra-chic homeware brand Shoppe Amber Interiors and a successful interior design studio. If you've been following Amber, you'll know she has the ability to take a space (of pretty much any description) and turn it into a space that's warm, rustic, and luxurious yet liveable.

Recently, Amber shared a before-and-after of a bland, all-gray home. She saw past the stark overhead lighting and cold surfaces, transforming the rather uninspiring spaces into welcoming rooms that each feel connected to her warm, organic design style.

Dining room

There was nothing wrong with the original dining room; it just lacked character, and felt a bit stuck in the early '00s. The initial space was a little cold; it had some nice furniture pieces, but the scheme was flat. The overall vibe was stark rather than that all-important welcome you expect from a dining room.

Amber totally transformed the space, revamping the walls with a chic lime wash and adding in exposed wooden beams to frame the room and bring depth. To build upon the rustic earthiness of the wall and ceiling finishes and features, Amber added some antique-style wood furniture that brings that all-important sense of grandeur and tradition, which is so fitting for this space.

We can't ignore the statement wall mural. The feature breaks up the layers of brown tones, and it's the perfect area of interest for guests to gaze at during meal time. It's a serene forest landscape, simple yet still prominent, that connects all the earthy and rustic elements and acts as the room's framing focal point.

Living room

Another room that feels unrecognizable, Amber reimagined the once bland gray living room, transforming the architecture of the space by adding a stone fireplace, wall paneling, exposed beams, and a rather enviable window seat.

The layout has been extended for the window seat, and the result is a living room that feels spacious and open, not to mention far more intentional. Getting rid of the conventional square layout, Amber added this separate zone for daytime relaxing, proving how much difference these thoughtful spaces make.

There are other characterful touches that make a world of difference to the space, like the fireplace that gives the living room a sense of subtle intricacy and grandeur, and adds age to a room that was once so typical of a new build.

Despite decorating with neutrals, the space feels interesting and inviting, proving that even the most subtle colors are welcoming when layered right. Amber's followed a real neutral color spectrum, scattering the palest creams to the darkest browns, all coming together to create a sense of luxury and snugness. Combine this with the chic organic materials like linen and wood, and you've got yourself a dreamy modern organic style living room that feels effortlessly cool and sophisticated all at the same time. A world away from all-gray everything.

Bedroom

The bedroom feels like a whole new space, it is a whole new space. From the windows to the bed frame, every single element has been elevated with Amber's signature rustic touch.

Changing the infrastructure of a room isn't always possible, but Amber proves that even the most mundane, stark spaces can be made to feel warm and snug. She's kept the new wood floor (luckily, the color ties in with the brown scheme) and covered it with a plush rug that provides plenty of warmth and coziness.

Creating an archetypal rustic bedroom idea, Amber has said goodbye to the rather dated velvet bed frame and switched it for a sophisticated upholstered style that pairs beautifully with the richer brown tones.

Another element she's transformed is the windows. They originally had stark black frames that created a really high contrast. Using the limewash finish, she's blended the windows and made them feel much more seamless and harmonious to the scheme.

Office

The built-in wood shelving unit is the first thing that stands out when you look at the home office. A practical yet stylish use of space, the wood creates warmth and naturalness that connects to the rest of the home. This room is definitely different from the others; it has a luxurious grandeur that radiates sophistication, perfect in a more formal office.

Matching the gold accents, Amber has added a bold gold desk bang in the middle of the space, offsetting the natural wood and creating a high-end feel. The desk sets the tone of the space, reminiscent of mid-century styles.

Amber has styled the shelves with all kinds of trinkets, vintage books, and other meaningful pieces that take the shelves from bare to characterful and interesting. The vintage-style picture lights create depth, the perfect aged accents to contrast against the new wood.

Each shade offers subtle differences, bringing its own atmosphere and aesthetic to your home. But interior designers turn to some greige paints again and again, no matter the project – and Benjamin Moore's Light Pewter is a favorite.

A go-to neutral, Light Pewter hue is versatile and complex, and unsurprisingly, one of Benjamin Moore's best sellers. Here's why interior designers favor the shade, and how to incorporate it into your own home.

How to decorate with Benjamin Moore Light Pewter

One of Light Pewter's biggest draws is its ability to accentuate just about any room's design scheme – no matter the lighting, layout, or color palette. Arianna Barone, color marketing manager at Benjamin Moore, says the shade is a 'versatile light warm gray' that works well as a 'foundational' shade.

'Offering the comforting and welcoming vibes of beiges and the modern, fresh touch of grays, Light Pewter 1464 is a very adaptable hue, making it fit seamlessly into a variety of color palettes and design styles,' says Arianna. 'It is a color with true staying power that you will love for years to come.'

1. Anchor your home's aesthetic with Light Pewter

Lauren Saab, founder of Texas-based Saab Studios, recommends using Light Pewter to set the groundwork, allowing it to establish a color scheme for your whole home. She says the shade is her 'go-to neutral when a space needs softness without skewing too warm'.

'Light Pewter is incredibly versatile, which makes it ideal for anchoring a home’s palette,' says Lauren. 'It shifts effortlessly between palettes, anchoring both warm and cool tones without feeling rigid or flat.'

Lauren prefers to use the hue in open-plan homes and shared living spaces, where she says 'cohesion matters most'. Pairing Light Pewter with Benjamin Moore's Saybrook Sage for a 'tonal, grounded scheme' or the brand's Stillwater shade for a 'cooler' look, she has used this neutral time and time again.

'It has a quiet depth, neither beige nor gray, that reads differently throughout the day but always feels grounded,' says Lauren. 'It doesn’t scream for attention, which makes it ideal for rooms meant to exhale in. It has that rare ability to make a space feel both calm and composed.'

2. Add contrast without excess color

Jennifer Carter, principal designer of New Jersey-based Studio Envie, has used this chameleon shade in multiple projects. She says it's the perfect hue to opt for if you'd like to avoid a stark white or dull gray, but don't have room in your design scheme for another bold color. In this kitchen, she picked Light Pewter for its comforting undertones.

'In the checkered floor kitchen, we used Light Pewter on the walls because we wanted some contrast to the white perimeter cabinets without adding another color into the mix,' she says. 'We wanted it to be a touch warm against the gray flooring and blues in the cabinets and bench seat.'

'The amazing thing about Light Pewter is that it is able to hold its own when paired with blues, greens, pinks, and whites,' Jennifer continues. 'It allows designers and clients alike to pair it with a variety of other colors without it being limiting.'

3. Layer Light Pewter with pattern and texture

Light Pewter's ability to establish a calming foundation and truly ground a space makes it the perfect shade to experiment with. Rebecca Amir, founder of New York-based Rebecca Amir Design, suggests layering the hue with eye-catching colors and textures – whether you're after a bold look, or something a bit more serene.

In this bedroom, located in Brooklyn's Cobble Hill neighborhood, Rebecca leaned into the color's pewter undertones, pairing it with blue accents and a patterned headboard. She says she wanted to create a calming backdrop, and allow the textures, details, patterns, and art 'to unfold without competition.'

'I love the way it pairs with a nice crisp white on the trim or millwork – in the Cobble Hill bedroom, we did all of the trim and doors in Benjamin Moore Baby's Breath,' she says.

'Think of Light Pewter as your canvas,' Rebecca continues. 'It's not a color to be afraid of. While I've used it in past projects to create serene bedrooms, I think it would be really nice in a living space as well as where it can be layered upon with patterns and textures that come from the furniture and fabrics.'

4. Experiment with different finishes

Light Pewter shines bright in any single application, but Kathy Heiner – founder of Virginia-based KLH Designs – recommends using the shade in multiple finishes for a dynamic and unexpected design scheme. She uses the greige shade often, even opting for it in her own home, and says she appreciates its ability to blend with a wide range of colors and textures.

'My favorite application is to use high gloss on the trim and flat on the walls,' she says. 'This can really accentuate gorgeous trim in an old house, like this one in Gloucester, Virginia.'

'This color is an excellent neutral as it works well with both warm and cool elements,' she continues. 'I have used it in spaces with heart pine flooring, a blond oak floor, or a grey stained floor. It also looks lovely with most stone and tile selections.'

5. Use Light Pewter as a backdrop for artwork

James Aman, co-founder of New York-based Aman & Meeks, says Light Pewter is the perfect hue to choose if you're looking to enhance your collection of artwork. It offers 'more character than standard white' when used as a base for gallery walls, he says.

'It's an excellent base tone that remains impactful,' says James. 'We particularly love pairing it with lavender or light blue accents.' In this living room, Light Pewter provides a neutral, serene backdrop for a statement mirror and bold pops of color. The color is 'ideal for spaces you want to highlight or make an impact,' says James.

6. Try the shade in transitional areas

Because Light Pewter blends so effortlessly with such a wide range of shades, it acts as a go-to transitional choice for designers. Caroline Kopp, founder and principal of her eponymous Connecticut-based design firm, says the shade is 'tasteful and refined', working well in sunny spaces, as well as those relying on artificial light.

'Light Pewter is a great transition color alongside other soft whites like Benjamin Moore’s Seapearl,' says Caroline. 'For a ceiling color to go with Light Pewter I would do Super White. If you want to do your trim in an updated way you can apply Light Pewter all across your baseboard, wall, and crown.'

Pictured above, KLH Designs has used Light Pewter in two finishes to line an elegant arched hallway, connecting various areas of the home. Caroline says she's used the shade in a similar application – to coat a paneled hallway leading into her primary bedroom. 'I live with it and love it,' she says.

7. Add subtle warmth to your space with Light Pewter

'I love that it's not a cold gray or beige that feels too yellow (two things I always try to avoid),' says Rebecca of Light Pewter. 'It has a beautiful warmth that makes the room feel comfortable, and a subtle creaminess that prevents it from ever feeling stark.'

In this bedroom, located on the Upper West Side of New York City, she took advantage of the color's creamy tones to place it alongside other beiges, mauves, and rosey hues. 'It's also a chameleon,' she says. 'It can read as soft, almost ethereal off-white, while under the glow of a lamp, it reads a bit deeper and more pewter-like.'

Bring a touch of Light Pewter home

Love the look of Light Pewter, but not ready to paint? The versatile gray-beige shade also serves the home well in small doses, adding texture and depth all across the house.

Using Light Pewter as a neutral (yet complex) foundation opens up near-endless options for color pairing, one reason of many that designers cite for relying on this shade. Whether pairing with white for contrast, or something a bit bolder, it serves as a reliable go-to hue.

'My favorite color pairings include layering in other warm grays like Smoke Embers 1466 and Seattle Mist 1535,' says Arianna Barone, color marketing manager at Benjamin Moore. 'To bring in more saturated hues, incorporate colors like Van Courtland Blue HC-145, Atmospheric AF-500 and Dusk to Dawn 1446.'

Of course, monetary value might not always be at the forefront of our minds when thrifting. Many interior designers advise following your heart and buying what you love for your home; however, having something that also increases in value can only be a win-win. While instinct is a useful guide, doing that little bit of extra research to gain that insider knowledge might just pay off.

So, how can you ensure your vintage buys only increase in value? To help steer your second-hand sourcing, we asked antique dealers and interior designers who love decorating with vintage and thrifted finds for their top tips.

1. Invest in high quality pieces in good condition

When it comes to antiques and thrifted vintage buys, most dealers and interior designers agree that if you want something to retain its value, then condition matters.

‘I always tell clients to look for quality craftsmanship. Solid wood construction, dovetail joints, and original hardware are all great indicators of lasting value,’ says Tracy Morris, founder of Tracy Morris Design. ‘For example, when sourcing a chest of drawers, I look for smooth-gliding drawers, sturdy legs, and elegant proportions – those details speak to both longevity and timeless appeal. If something feels special and well-made, it’s often worth the investment.’

Similarly, it’s best to avoid broken or damaged items when sourcing vintage pieces that you want to increase in value. ‘I steer clear of anything that has tipped from rustic into decaying. If the piece is riddled with wormholes, structurally unsound, or has been smothered by overzealous repairs, it is rarely worth investing in,’ adds Susannah Cameron, founder of Chez Pluie, the online store based in Provence that specializes in French antiques.

‘Choose pieces that have stood the test of time without losing their soul,’ adds Susannan. ‘If a piece has been restored, learn what was done and how. Restoration should be sympathetic and respectful of original techniques, particularly with timber. Honest dealers will be upfront about repairs, replacements, or quirks like absent keys and modified fittings.’

2. Buy pieces with provenance – look for stamps, labels, or makers' marks

Knowing the provenance and history of an item is key when buying antiques that will increase in value. Items that come with proof of their origins and history will hold their value, as it will give future buyers peace of mind.

‘Make certain the provenance and construction are well documented,’ says Susannah. ‘The best finds come with a story worth retelling. A product description should include the age of the piece, the maker, the material and finishes, and the country or region of origin (cast iron, walnut, blown glass, vernis Martin, etc).’

Pieces from known makers or those that are limited edition, or come with a unique back story, often tend to retain their value and are key collectables interior designers always look for, so keep your eyes peeled for evidence, say the experts. ‘Stamps, labels, or makers' marks, usually found on the underside or back of a piece, offer valuable clues,’ says Dallen Russell, of InSite Builders & Remodeling.

Look for signatures on art, hallmarks on silver or labels on furniture. In addition, ‘original packaging or documentation can significantly increase an item’s value,’ explains Dallen Russell. ‘These details confirm authenticity and are especially appealing to collectors who appreciate a piece’s complete history.’

3. Choose well preserved items from collectable eras

Pieces which are good quality examples of collectable eras, such as Mid-century furniture, are a good bet when looking for investment buys. ‘Pieces with a clear provenance or from known makers tend to hold their worth and even appreciate over time,’ explains Tracy Morris. ‘Trust your eye but also do a little research; the more you know about styles and periods, the better your chances of spotting a gem.’

'High-quality mid-century furniture (anything Danish, signed, stamped) is typically worth quite a bit and can be very collectible,' explains Virginia Chamlee, author of Big Thrift Energy. 'Similarly, French Art Deco is highly collectable, though there are a lot of copies on the market (interestingly, though, even some of the copies – those actually made in the same period – can also be valuable).'

Recognizing classic shapes and timeless designs is key to understanding long-term value, adds Dallen Russell. ‘In furniture, this might range from the elegance of the French Rococo period to the minimalist appeal of a Parsons table – styles that have endured for generations. In homeware, vintage copper cookware, ironstone serving pieces, and mid-century glassware are examples of sought-after pieces that continue to appeal to collectors and appreciate in value.’

4. Develop your knowledge of a certain area

To ensure antique and vintage items only increase in value, think about specializing in a certain area. The antiques world is vast and prices and trends are constantly changing, so there’s no way you’ll ever be an expert on it all, so think about focusing on a certain era, maker, or genre you are interested in suggests Suzannah Cameron.

‘Follow your own curiosity and cultivate knowledge in specific areas. With time, your eye sharpens. You’ll begin to recognize a silver hallmark at a glance, a familiar painter’s hand, or a distinctive glaze used in a particular region. Look for subtle clues that confirm the maker, such as the X beneath a piece of Moustiers faïence or the ET initials under Émile Tessier’s ceramics.’

With a passion for French antiques, Susannah is always on the look out for timeless pieces, including 'pottery from the southwest of France; Biot jars – the semi-glazed Provençal storage vessels that lend themselves to both indoor and outdoor settings; wicker in all forms, from armchairs to harvest baskets and early 20th-century Bentwood bistro chairs — especially those stamped Thonet.'.

5. Be prepared to play the long game

If you’re looking specifically for vintage items to sell on, then you’ll need to think ahead of the game and be prepared to wait a while, say the experts.

‘Sometimes, thrifting for resale is like playing the long game – you have to buy things before they are super popular. This is where looking at shelter publications and Pinterest, and Instagram comes in. What are the big-name interior designers buying?’ advises Virginia Chamlee.

‘If you see a table at a thrift store that you noted in a recent video for a celebrity home, that's probably a good buy. You almost have to foresee vintage trends a few months or even years ahead of time.'

A seasoned thrifter, Virginia is experienced in spotting items before they surge in popularity. Recently, she has seen an uplift in the sale of vintage quilts, which luckily she has been collecting for years. ‘Something I've been thrifting and saving for years are crazy quilts (patchwork quilts that have kind of an Americana quality). I've always been drawn to these, and over the past five years or so, they've started to pop up in a lot of designer spaces. So that was an early investment that paid off,’ says Virginia.

6. Buy what you love

When looking for vintage items that will grow in value, you need to ask yourself what value you’re looking for – do you want something to sell on, or do you want something that will bring you joy and add value to your interiors for years to come?

‘I tell clients not to get too caught up in resale value right away. If something is well-constructed and emotionally resonant, it’s likely to stand the test of time. The best rooms aren’t full of investment pieces, they’re full of things that feel personal,’ says Sara Swabb.

‘Buy things you love. Buy it because it speaks to you, not because you think it's valuable, trendy, or simply a great deal or find,’ echoes Molly Kunselman, founder and principal designer at Molly Kenselman Design. ‘If you find an item you love, but it has a blemish such as a ceramic piece with a small chip, buy it anyway. You can probably barter the price down due to the blemish, but more importantly, a small imperfection speaks to the story the piece is a part of that extends before and (possibly) after you.’

7. Take care of your antiques

It’s not just buying the right things that ensures antiques go up in value; it’s also how you care for them. Be sure to keep them in tip-top condition

‘Once you’ve thrifted a gem, preservation is key,’ says interior designer Magda Callery. ‘Keep wood moisturized, avoid direct sunlight on artwork, and use museum putty or archival materials where appropriate. A piece's condition can make or break its long-term worth.’

Of course, that doesn’t mean keeping antiques under lock and key or never using them; however, if something is particularly valuable or fragile, make sure it is stored or displayed safely.

‘I do believe that most vintage pieces retain their value, provided they are of a certain quality. The easiest way to ensure vintage buys retain their value is by placing them in areas that are not high-traffic. Once a vintage piece is damaged, it can be difficult to sell it,’ adds interior designer Alexandra Azat, founder of Plaster & Patina.

Ultimately, if you're searching for antique and vintage buys to elevate your home, then it all comes down to personal taste. However, if you are looking for investment pieces, then to ensure your thrifted pieces grow in value, always choose pieces that are in good condition and have provenance, say the experts. Taking time to research makers and eras you are interested in is also advised.

'When buying vintage or antique pieces, I always ask: is it well-made, is it useful, and does it tell a story? Items that check those boxes tend to hold or grow in value, especially if the piece reflects quality craftsmanship, provenance, or timeless design,' says Sara Swabb.

Whether you’re working with kitchen tiles or bathroom tiles, getting the grout right can elevate your space from fine to flawless. But don't just listen to me, take Joanna Gaines' word for it.

Posting on Instagram this week, the designer and TV star shared a behind-the-scenes tour of her latest Mini Reni series sunroom and bathroom makeover. Her biggest tip? Spend time on the little details, like grout color, to help tie everything together.

Why you shouldn't forget your grout

Grout is often one of those details that you leave the tiler to take care of for you, typically selecting a clean-looking white (that never actually stays looking clean) or perhaps a gray for a more modern look. But I hate to tell you – this decision is on you.

'I like to see grout in person, on site, with the actual tile,' says Joanna. 'If you've spent that much time on the colors and the actual material itself, why not spend just as much time to make sure that that grout color ties everything together?'

Seen making the final call on the grout to go with a green and white checkerboard tiled floor for her latest makeover, Joanna is presented with samples from white to beige to see which works best with the zellige tiles.

The video clearly demonstrates just how important it is to test and swatch your grout to avoid grouting mistakes. In Joanna's case, she finds the lighter shade too white and stark against the handmade nature of the chosen tiles, and selects a creamy beige tone that blends everything together.

Think of grout almost like the outline of a drawing. It can enhance the lines and geometry of your tile, or blur them for a more tonal, textural effect. But it needs to be chosen with intent.

For example, in my home, I chose a rustic terracotta kitchen floor tile that has earthy, unique, handmade shapes and colors within each tile. I wanted to lean into those warm tones and pick a shade that almost melts into the tile, rather than defining each edge with a bold white or dark line.

Similarly, in the retro river house kitchen by Jessica Helgerson, seen above, a teal fireplace tile has been used to make a design statement in the space. The chosen grout is an almost-perfect color match to the tiles, which gives a color drenched, unifying effect instead of creating contrast.

Alternatively, you can try some unexpected grout colors to make a statement. A popular choice is a dark gray or black grout with simple white subway tile, but you can make this work in a more traditional or rustic setting, as designer Shannon Eddings has achieved with this checkerboard shower above.

You can also go bold with your color combinations and try some vibrant pairings, such as white and ochre or a vibrant pink. It's also a great way to elevate budget tile or upcycle existing tile that's perhaps feeling a little tired or boring.

Sure, grout might not be the sexiest part of a renovation, but as I’ve learned – with thanks to Joanna Gaines – it’s one of the most important yet overlooked finishing touches. Taking the time to test different shades, see them in natural light, and truly consider how they interact with your tile or room scheme can make all the difference in how the final space feels.

It’s that extra 10% of effort that brings everything together.

Trust me, I know this feels like one more thing to add to your never-ending list of design decisions, but I promise this isn't a small detail you can just leave to the contractors. I've been hurried into a grout choice or pushed into picking trade white by builders in the past, and have always regretted it afterward.

For me, grout is a make-or-break situation. So I treat it with the same care and attention I give to choosing paint colors, materials, or layouts. As Joanna says, why spend all that time finding the perfect tiles, just to ruin them with a dirty-looking grout color or a harsh, dark line? Let this be your sign to get yourself a color chart before you even think about how to grout tiles.

Plenty of interior design trends feel like time capsules. Take midcentury modern style homes, for example; they're a shining example of design from the Baby Boomer generation. While many of us love the retro nostalgia of this aesthetic (I think it radiates contemporary coolness), I'm sure many of the Boomers who lived through it are more than over the trend. The cyclical nature of trends probably leaves whole generations thinking 'no, not that again.'

Here, I spoke with interior designers of all ages about what features, decor, and aesthetics they hate from their generation.

1. Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964)

The 'Baby Boomer' generation was a time of advancement in industrial and commercial interior design. Designers took risks with new materials, creating distinctive looks that were the first of their kind.

Liz Williams, Founder and Principal Designer of Liz Williams Interiors, says, 'The baby boomer generation leaned into futurism in design – vinyl furniture, Formica counters, and, of course, TV trays seem to be the things that are not remembered fondly! These elements can feel cold or dated in today’s homes.'

Debbie Mathews LeRoy, Founder and Principal Designer of Debbie Mathews Antiques & Designs, explains her love-hate relationship with the retro style. 'While I’m technically a baby boomer (though on the tail end!), I grew up surrounded by a loud color palette. My parents' decor involved a lot of avocado greens, golds, and rusts. I will never forget our living room shag area rug that was striated in a variety of colors, and my mother literally raking it to make the carpet fibers stand up! We had kitchen appliances in gold, and my grandparents had appliances in avocado green.'

Unlike the midcentury modern teak furniture that defined the era, Debbie is attracted to all things ornate and antique. 'And my furniture couldn't be more different than the mid-century modern pieces that my parents embraced. I prefer continental antique furniture made out of walnut that now has a rich and imperfect patina, with perhaps inlay and carvings that are far from the minimalist pieces my parents gravitated towards.'

She adds, 'It is hard for me to say that I hate the 1960s style that was so prevalent during my early childhood, as I have so many fond memories associated with this style, but I have certainly found my preferences in a softer, more soothing palette embracing history and a more timeless design aesthetic.'

2. Generation X (born 1965-1980)

Similarly to the retro kitsch vibes that defined the latter end of the Baby Boomer period, Generation X embraced all things colorful, loud, and a little garish. Liz was born in this generation and says (like Debbie and many others) she dislikes the 'harvest gold, avocado green, and rust – the appliance colors that set the tone for the rest of the home in the ‘70s. While I like some of these colors on their own, together they are too earthy. Wall-to-wall shag carpet and oversized TV consoles also come to mind as something I don't miss.'

Kitsch kitchen trends dominated this era, including overly bright colors and stark finishes. The seventies were a time when industrial, man-made materials took center stage, so it makes sense that so many designers from this generation avoid such looks. Gretchen Rivera, Principal Designer at Casa Casual studio, was born in this generation and explains that many of these things make a home look dated in 2025. She says, 'I dislike what’s generally called “faux luxury” or “decorative inauthenticity,” a style that imitates rather than originates. I have no patience for what is known as fast furniture – cheap, trendy, and disposable pieces that contribute nothing to a sense of permanence or integrity in a space.'

Gretchen continues, 'A lot of us in Generation X came of age in plastic wood-paneled basements with fake plants and Corinthian Leather upholstered seats, eating microwaved pasta out of stained Tupperware with MTV playing in the background. We saw firsthand how suburban sprawl replaced craftsmanship with convenience, how the malls and model homes of the ‘80s and ‘90s prioritized appearance over substance. We grew up as skeptics in the shadow of mass marketing and learned to spot what was fake from a mile away. The nostalgia of Generation X isn’t for distressed barn wood bought new. It’s for things that earned their look and finish the hard way.'

It seems Generation X has been traumatized by all things fake and inauthentic. Jan Jan Odesanya from Mondän & Co Interiors agrees, saying, 'We were sold the dream of Tuscan kitchens, red feature walls, and espresso-stained everything. Many of us are still living with the fallout – quite literally. My take: We’ve outgrown the drama. These days, it’s all about light oak, quiet tones, and letting the materials speak. No more proving anything with fake columns or heavy granite slabs.'

3. Millennials (born 1981-1996)

Although some 1980s interior design trends have been revived recently, many of the most distinguishable styles of this decade are hated by interior designers who lived through it. It's not just the 1980s that are filled with rookie design mistakes; there are plenty of styles Millennials hate from the succeeding decade, too.

Liz says, 'Most design in the 80s was overdone – elaborate window treatments, massive furniture sets, and bulky entertainment centers. Millennial clients usually want cleaner lines, more airiness, less clutter, and rooms that feel personal but not fussy.'

Interior designer Nicole Casella, from Febal Casa, a leading Italian home design brand, says, 'As a Millennial interior designer, I’ve always gravitated toward spaces that feel intentional, balanced, and connected to personal lifestyle. One of the styles I personally struggle with is overly themed decor – think beach houses filled with seashell everything or rustic spaces overloaded with “farmhouse” signs. It tends to feel forced and often lacks the elegance that makes a home timeless. I believe a home should reflect the people who live there – not just a Pinterest board.'

Although some 1980s colors are making a comeback in 2025, Jan says she's not a fan of the gray that dominated the late 1980s and 1990s. Explaining her dislike towards archetypal 1990s interior design trends, Jan says, 'Gray. So much gray. Floors, sofas, walls – all in that one cool-toned hue that made everything feel like a dentist’s office. My take: The rebellion is underway. I’m seeing a craving for color again – mustard, rust, forest green, anything to bring the warmth back. The “Live Laugh Love” signs are finally coming down, and good riddance.'

4. Generation Z (born 1997-2012)

Many 1990s trends creep into Generation Z, so it seems only fitting that many of us (I'm a proud Gen Z member) steer clear of defining styles like gray shades, mirrored surfaces, and anything overly pastiche.

Liz says, 'My children are part of Gen Z, and I’ve noticed some fatigue around the all-gray, farmhouse-everything look. Shiplap walls and barn doors are feeling a little overdone. This group wants more color, individuality, and a bit of vintage charm. They're confident mixing styles and aren’t afraid to take risks.'

Transitional design is all the rage among my generation (myself included) as it embraces all things well-made and eclectic without straying too far into one style. Nicole agrees, saying, 'Millennials and Gen Z clients increasingly dislike “fast furniture” and disposable decor. They prefer investing in fewer, higher-quality pieces with a story behind them – Italian craftsmanship, for example, always resonates.'

Jan says her Gen Z clients are 'Bold. Brave. And occasionally… totally overwhelmed. Their spaces are a mashup of blob mirrors, checkerboard rugs, and neon signs. It’s expressive, sure – but sometimes it’s chaos in disguise. My take: Editing is the new luxury. A well-designed space shouldn’t feel like an algorithm. You don’t need to reference every micro-trend to prove you’ve got taste.'

There are so many interior design styles that have defined the past four generations. While retro colors and industrial materials dominated the middle of the 20th century, pastiche rustic-style looks dominated the latter half. Despite many of these distinct styles serving as examples of what not to do, the past 80 years of interior design has been an ever-evolving journey that showcases the endless possibilities of creativity and curation.

Be it a particular piece of furniture or a specific design element, every designer has that 'secret sauce' they swear by for a harmonious space that looks perfectly polished. Think of it as the icing on the cake – the one detail that makes a room look finished, pulling all the other threads together for an expertly curated home. It's something they rely on time and time again, no matter which interior design trends happen to ebb and flow.

While that's all well and good, professional designers are just that – professionals. Without their toolkit and prowess, how can we be expected to pull off the same tricks? Well, to help you on your way to creating a stylish home with designer-level details, I spoke with designers Martha Mulholland and Nicky Mudie to find out which pieces they always recommend to their clients to tie a look together.

1. Pillows and throws

No room is complete without some soft textiles to warm the space and add texture (yes, that includes the kitchen). Be it beautiful, patterned upholstery, a scattering of throw pillows, or some simple drapes, using fabrics can be so effective. It's a finishing touch that offers a chance to introduce color and pattern when a room needs it most, helping to tie a scheme together.

From a practical perspective, the details will prevent your room from looking stark, cold, and unwelcoming. As Nicky Mudie explains, 'soft furnishings in layered fabrics and patterns give warmth, comfort, and a cohesive feel'.

For interior designer Martha Mulholland, accessories like tossed pillows are a recommendation for every client, no matter their style. 'These finishing touches give a space character and help it feel complete,' she says. Take the space above, for example, where the same patterns are carried through both beds and the window seat, creating a recurring motif for visual harmony.

You could also use your soft textiles to introduce an accent color that runs through your area rug, curtains, and sofa pillows. The added beauty of this idea? You can easily switch up the color or pattern through the seasons or as your style changes for minimal cost.

2. An area rug

If you have hard floors, an area rug is a non-negotiable to make a room feel complete. 'They anchor the space, define zones, and add texture and color,' says Nicky. Be intentional when choosing a rug, they might sit at floor level, but they take up a lot of visual space in a room. Is a natural jute rug more in tune with your minimalist decor style, or do you need to bring pattern to your floors to echo motifs in your wallpaper?

Designers swear by the right rug to pull a room together, and it shouldn't be an afterthought. In fact, as the very foundation of a room, you might want to build the rest of your room around one, choosing furniture that fits perfectly and decor in complementary colors and patterns.

Pay attention to rug placement rules, too (yes, it should go under your biggest pieces of furniture). This will ensure your space looks well-balanced and carefully considered. 'You'll need to go big, and even bigger than you think you need,' Nicky notes.

3. Antiques

Every space needs that one conversation piece that draws the eye. It has to be unique, intriguing, and full of character, something easily achieved when decorating with antiques. If you're looking for a home that's less homogenous and cookie-cutter and more eclectic and personal, add a vintage or antique heirloom to every room.

It's something Nicky always relies on to create a truly unique interior for her clients. 'A well-chosen vintage piece grounds the room and adds soul,' she says. 'It could be a chest of drawers, a side table, or even lighting.' Even a small tchotchke on a set of shelves could be the one piece that's needed to complete the perfect vignette. This attention to detail will imbue a space with character and offer a great springboard to inspire a wider decorating theme.

4. Accent lighting

Rule number one of the designer handbook: don't overlook your lighting. Far from being a mere functional tool, lighting can be the thing that pulls a whole room together.

You won't find a single designer in the world who settles for overhead lights alone. 'To make a room feel complete, you need to always include a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting,' says Nicky. 'Think ceiling lights, floor lamps, and table lamps.' Layering lighting in this way will create a room that feels warm and inviting with visual depth and dimension.

In spaces like the living room and bedroom, designers often advise clients to put an overhead light at the bottom of the priority list (even the kitchen is becoming less harshly lit, these days). Instead, the designer preference is side lighting with warmer bulbs.

'Prioritizing table and floor lamps rather than overheads, and fitting them with warm, dimmable bulbs, can entirely shift the mood of a space,' says Martha. 'Even a fairly simple room can become atmospheric with the right light.' Consider matching the finishes (be it a patterned shade or metallic brass) for a truly cohesive look.

5. Artwork and mirrors

There's nothing like a bland, bare wall to bring down a room's aesthetic. Even if the rest of the space is perfectly put-together, a gap on a wall will always make the room look as though it's lacking in some way. Decorating with artwork, however, you can pull the whole space together for a polished, refined appearance.

This is because art is usually hung exactly where the eye comes to rest, creating a hero focal point that anchors the room, 'and every room needs something to draw the eye,' Nicky tells me. Designers often recommend a vintage painting to draw guests in, but be wary that the size matters. In certain cases, a gallery wall made up of several smaller prints and paintings might be more appropriate, or perhaps a large tapestry is the best option to fill the space.

In fact, it doesn't have to be a piece of wall art or decor at all, says Nicky. 'Art brings personality and visual interest, but a mirror adds light and the illusion of more space,' she says, something that might be most beneficial in small rooms.

6. An accent chair

Some designers are adamant that every room needs seating, not just your living room. Adding an accent chair to an entryway, bedroom, or kitchen not only offers an opportunity to rest tired legs, but it also creates a beautiful design moment that helps pull a room together.

Usually, when we talk about cohesive, curated interiors, we think about common threads and motifs that feel safe and predictable. Sometimes, however, adding a piece of furniture that introduces an element of surprise or intrigue can be more effective, and accent chairs do just that.

Often, an unexpected design feature, a single chair, can make a great design statement that acts as the finishing touch in a space. 'Even in a small room, one sculptural or characterful chair can add balance and personality,' says Nicky. Think about adding a mid-century style leather chair to a bedroom full of soft textiles and heavy textures, for example, or a plush, patterned armchair in an otherwise neutral living room.

7. Scent

Finally, while not strictly a piece of decor, the power of a good home fragrance to tie a room together shouldn't be underestimated. Designers often recommend that clients find a scent that matches the room's mood to add an extra layer of detail that draws on another one of our senses. It's the perfect finishing touch to an expertly designed interior.

'Scent is often an overlooked detail that can elevate a space and has a remarkable impact on how one feels,' says Martha. 'A truly cohesive room isn’t just visually cohesive, it’s a multi-sensory affair: fabrics should feel sumptuous, light should be romantically soft, and the air should smell like something lovely. Designing with all five senses in mind is, to me, the real alchemy of interior design.'

The finishing touches in a room can be just as important as those big important decision you make early on. And I find this bit, the pulling together of a room, the most fun, the most creative. Brining in those small accents like pillows and candles and artwork is when I start to see a room really become mine.

Full price, all the pieces are great value, giving Joanna's classic modern rustic style on a tighter budget, but add up to 40% off and these pieces are unmissable. Her latest collection that launched early this year was, of course, very focused on outdoor and summer decor, and there were so many classic pieces that would instantly elevate your patio.

And while summer might be in full swing, it's never too late to add to your setup with some new pieces, especially with the holiday weekend coming up. I've rounded up the buys I would add to my cart to give my patio a quick mid-summer spruce.

Shop the Hearth & Hand™ with Magnolia sale

There's plenty more outdoor pieces to shop in the Hearth & Hand™ with Magnolia sale, with up to 40% off, but be quick as I can see stocks are getting low on some of the most popular pieces. Plus, if you order ASAP, you could be enjoying your new buys over the holiday weekend.

Warming, grounding, and surprisingly adaptable, decorating with brown is, of course, nothing new. But it's certainly having a moment, and we're seeing a big return to rich, enveloping brown paints like chocolate, espresso, and tobacco.

Luxurious and rich yet traditional at the same time, Little Greene's Ganache took me totally by surprise. And then I returned to it again and again for almost every room in my home.

My love for chocolate brown naturally started in the kitchen. Then it slowly crept its way into my wardrobe, and some of the chicest pieces I've bought recently have been wrapped in this sweet cocoa shade. But no one was more surprised than I to find myself drawn to its enveloping tones for my home, too.

'Chocolate brown shades are perfect for creating smart spaces that bring indulgence, comfort, and warmth to the home,' says Ruther Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene. 'With their earthy tones, rich chocolate browns are a subtle nod to nature and work wonderfully with natural materials such as stone, wood, wicker, and rattan finishes.'

It shares the versatility of black but with a warm, welcoming undertone and inherently luxe feel. And what makes Ganache especially appealing is its softness. Unlike black, it doesn’t dominate; instead, it enhances whatever it’s paired with.

'Brown is a great tone to incorporate in your space. It's moody, it's cozy, and it looks good in both neutral rooms and colorful spaces,' said designer Taylor Simon in a recent TikTok video. 'It provides a deep, moody color without being too stark like black, while still providing great contrast against lighter walls,' she explained.

With a nod toward retro color schemes, it can feel delightfully nostalgic yet still sits just as lovely in contemporary spaces as it does amongst more traditional interior design styles.

As a long-term neutral lover, I've been slowly trying to lean into bolder colors in my current home. It is Edwardian with tall ceilings and full of character, so it can handle a little fun! I color drenched my living room in Farrow & Ball's Parma Gray (a misleading name, it hasn't a hint of gray within it) and then needed to find a complementary color for the fireplace.

After consulting with the experts – I even asked for Farrow & Ball's tips on decorating my blue living room – I learned that browny-red tones would work beautifully, and the winning swatch was unsurprisingly Ganache, seen above in my work-in-progress living room.

The next victim was my staircase. It's a big surface area, and the chosen color would be in your sightline immediately from the front door through to the dining room, living room, and all of upstairs. So it had to be perfect.

Leaning into the colors in my Victorian-style mosaic entryway floor – which as you can see above has tones of traditional brick red, butter yellow, brown, and black – I wanted to pick something that would feel contemporary, cool, but also work with a traditional palette. A hard brief.

I chose to pick out the brown in the tiles, giving the stairs a glossy, chocolatey wash of paint that somehow feels equal parts traditional (like a rich mahogany wood might) and stylish at the same time.

People often think of dark colors as dramatic or moody, but they can also be wonderfully grounding. If you balance them with lighter elements and tactile finishes, they bring real depth to a scheme, just like the nightstand in this neutral bedroom designed by Emma Ainsbough above.

'When used across all elements, they can really envelop a space, adding impact and drama to a space as well as partnering beautifully with neutral hues and natural finishes for a tonal contrast,' Ruth adds. 'Try color drenching Ganache in a scheme across walls, woodwork, and the ceiling for a truly impactful, cozy finish.'

In my case, Ganache has become the 'red thread' that tied everything together – from the living room to the hallway, to unexpected spaces like the cupboard in the corner of my kitchen and a bar cart in my dining room. It's now my go-to hue for making a space feel warm, layered, and with the right amount of contrast.

Shop chocolate brown home decor

Choosing Little Greene's Ganache for multiple surfaces in my home felt like a bold move, but it has turned out to be the most grounding decision in my entire remodel. It's certainly proof that dark colors don't have to feel heavy or oppressive, and in the right tone or sheen, they can be endlessly versatile and totally chic.

So, next time you're faced with a color chart, why not give brown a go? You might be surprised by just how much you love it. And if you're thinking, 'what colors go with brown?', check out our dedicated feature for all the complementary colors.

The latest episode (number 6 in the series) aired last week, and as usual, Joanna channeled her modern rustic style and entirely reimaged two neglected, lackluster rooms. She took a sunroom and the tired adjoining bathroom and transformed them into two serene spaces that feel connected and perfectly balanced, not to mention they nail so many key design trends despite not having a lot of square footage.

Taking to Instagram, Joanna walked through the design process whilst pinpointing her favorite items that helped to make both rooms feel charming and inviting. She said, 'I want to show you some of the stuff that I grabbed at the market that really just helps bring this space to life.' Despite decorating with vintage, many of the pieces are from Joanna's own store, Magnolia, so you can recreate the laid-back cottage look at home.

Before

Spotlighting her favorite pieces, Joanna starts in the sunroom and talks us through the power of vintage-style touches. Starting with the trim color that frames the space, from the door frames to the perimeter of the floor. A classic window trim color idea, the shade is a deep oxblood red that Joanna created herself. She says, 'This trim color is a color that we matched to the tile in the bathroom. I love it and it ties in with these branches.'

She then moves on to the sofa area. The vintage stand creates a sense of height and drama paired with the wild plant, she says, 'This whole moment right here. You've got this lamp stand that has a vintage design to it.' Joanna has scattered other wooden vintage-style accents, which each bring warmth and a sense of hominess. She explains, 'This wooden sconce is beautiful, I actually have these in my butler's pantry as well.' The jute rug and rattan blinds create even more warmth and texture and add to the pared-back, comforting feel of the space.

Joanna explains the power of a statement piece to connect the overall design. In this case, it's the vintage-inspired floral tapestry that is at the center of the space. 'Last but not least, the tapestry. I feel like all the design started with this, and now as you step around and look at the space, everything ties back to what you see here.'

After

Moving into the next room, Joanna explains that the small bathroom needed some elevating. 'This bathroom is a small space. All we had to do was just maximize this vanity and make sure it felt more like a primary bathroom.'

Rustic touches uplifted this space, making it feel cohesive with the sunroom, such as the oxblood red tiles and the new vanity unit. Framing the sink area, the tile color matches the trim in the sunroom. The rectangular tiles create a sense of opulence and richness that's balanced by the white marble countertop.

Similarly to the sunroom, charming vintage accents are scattered throughout the bathroom. Joanna says, 'Here's an old vintage letter that was found at the antique store. You can see we mixed a lot of old and new.' More contemporary pieces, like the gold hardware and delicate glass jars, balance the heavier wood accents. 'There are some new pieces in here that are from Magnolia. I love this ribbed glass, this green tint, ties back to this little soap dish.'

The charming sage green checkerboard floor connects the two spaces and provides a contrast against the rich red trim and tiles, bringing a sense of heritage and whimsy that feels so fitting in both rooms.

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Joanna's transformation of the sunroom and bathroom is undoubtedly impressive. It showcases the power of layering – from vintage accents, to warm textures, and a strong dose of color, they all work together to revitalize, uplift, and comfort as soon as you enter.

‘There can be a tendency in the U.S. to favor schematic, structured schemes,’ she says. ‘Here, I learned that embracing a slight sense of imbalance makes for more interesting, dynamic design. There’s no fun in everything looking perfect.’

That philosophy guided her transformation of this home in Atlanta, a 1990s property close to one of the city’s parks. The house design was a study in contrasts: ‘There was heavy stone, brick, and various types of wooden beams, as well as an intricate iron staircase,’ says Sally.

Her clients, a retired couple, sought a home that would function effortlessly – both as an elegant yet intimate space for their daily lives and an expansive retreat for their family and guests. ‘It was vital that every room had a clear purpose so the entire house was used. We wanted it to feel cohesive rather than cavernous,’ she explains.

Sally began by softening the architectural features to improve the sense of flow. The pine floors were stripped to achieve a paler, more natural finish, while in the kitchen and breakfast room, a white slurry wash helped harmonize previously discordant stone and brickwork. In the adjoining sitting room, new iron-framed glass doors flood the space with light and create a seamless connection to the pool and garden.

Sally and her clients took a detailed approach to defining each room’s purpose. A pantry was turned into an elegant study for the wife, while one of the reception rooms became a snug designed as the couple’s private retreat.

While the sitting room adjoining the kitchen was envisioned for breezy, alfresco-inspired entertaining, the front-facing sitting room has a richer, cozier feel that lends itself to cooler months. Here, tobacco-hued raffia walls add depth and warmth, offering a textural backdrop to art and ceramics. ‘I factored in benches and stools that would double as seating,’ says Sally.

Sally was intentional in decorating with antiques to anchor the design. ‘The owners wanted to start fresh here, so antiques were essential in bringing a sense of history and soul,’ she says. The resulting collection spans continents and eras: a 19th-century French enfilade in the snug provides storage for games; a Dutch vitrine cabinet in the sitting room displays family objects; and Italian and English pieces lend patina throughout, suggesting a home that has evolved naturally over time.

Equally important to the design is the art, which serves as a defining feature of the interiors. In the entrance hall, a series of botanical prints by Kate Friend set the tone for the colors used in the adjacent rooms.

‘Art was a starting point rather than an afterthought,’ says Sally, who also helped source pieces for the bathrooms and kitchen, where a bold oil painting subtly elevates an otherwise relaxed, organic aesthetic. ‘I like the balance of the vibrancy of the painting and the earthiness of the étagère we hung on the other side of the window.’

Landscape designer Alec Michaelides beautifully interpreted the clients’ vision for the garden, while Sally’s interiors echo the surroundings with touches such as vintage botanical fabrics, antique Turkish rugs, and richly tactile finishes. Her instinct for contrast is evident throughout: in the dining room, teal-hued doors create a striking dialogue with toffee linen slipcovered chairs, while in a bedroom, canary yellow corduroy headboards pop against slightly acidic green walls.

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For Sally, the greatest reward has been experiencing the home as her clients intended. ‘They are incredibly generous, gracious hosts,’ she says. ‘Being invited to their gatherings and seeing the house full of life is the best testament to the design – it’s being used, enjoyed, and lived in exactly as we envisioned.’

A traditional house style, Tudor Revival-style homes are scattered across the country. With their ornate timbered exteriors, angular roofs, and uniquely shaped windows, Tudor-style homes blend classic Gothic features with cottage-like Tudor elements. It's not just their outsides that spark intrigue; often, their interiors are equally as rich, from high ceilings to stained glass windows, these homes are filled with character.

A reminder of America's rich architectural history, they're a popular property style today and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

What is a Tudor Revival style house?

A result of early 20th-century Romanticism, Tudor Revival-style homes were inspired by the characterful exteriors of Medieval architecture (namely found in Europe). They were first introduced in the United States sometime towards the end of the 19th century and continued to flourish into the next century, popping up all over the country.

Typically, a Tudor Revival-style home can be distinguished by its half-timbered exterior (usually made from contrasting dark wood), unusual layouts, a steeply pitched roof, unconventional paneled windows, and a distinctive chimney that protrudes upwards. You might also find an ornate front porch or veranda attached to a Tudor Revival home, or a grand arched doorway that radiates rustic charm.

5 Tudor Revival style homes

These five Tudor Revival-style homes are unique in both exterior and interior, yet all showcase the brilliance of this one-of-a-kind architectural style. Each embraces character and eccentricity in the best way possible.

1. A New York Tudor home with a transitional interior

Interior designer Dorothee Junkin explains she 'played a game of shuffle', reimaging the layout of an early 20th-century Tudor Revival home located in Westchester, New York.

‘I always enjoy the unique challenges and opportunities that come with working on older buildings,' she says. 'They can be capricious and stubborn, but they also have a lot of character and a way to guide you towards unexpected and beautiful spaces.'

Describing the architectural style, Dorothee says, 'Tudor Revival properties with their steeply pitched roofs, multiple gables and decorative half-timbering are character homes. However, if left unmonitored and unattended, a neglected corner can quickly cause a host of problems.'

'While it was unfortunate that most of the original interior features had been lost, collaborating with our wonderful clients to revive their house was a truly delightful experience. The result is a remarkably livable home that blends aged and contemporary elements, with a comfortable flow and deeply enjoyable spaces.’

2. A grand Tudor Revival estate in Georgia

An example of newly built architecture inspired by historic design, this Tudor Revival-style house, located in Marietta, Georgia, is an impressive feast for the eyes, standing proud in its idyllic setting.

Jessica Bradley, founder of Jessica Bradley Interiors, brought the home to life, fusing tradition with modernity. She says, 'Working on this home was a unique and inspiring challenge. While the architecture pays tribute to classic Tudor Revival, our goal was to soften and lighten its traditional formality. There’s a timeless elegance in the bones of the house, but we approached each space with a fresh lens, introducing warmth, approachability, and livability without sacrificing detail.'

She adds, 'What I loved most about this project was the opportunity to honor the architecture while making it feel tailored for modern family life. Every decision, from wood stain to fabric texture, was about striking that balance – respecting the grandeur, but letting the house feel like a true home.'

3. A charmingly quaint Texas Tudor house

Much like Queen Anne-style homes, this charming Texas home features a pair of stylized arched doorways and a prominent chimney, giving it a real sense of character and personality.

Kate Bendewald transformed this period property from neglected to prosperous. Acknowledging its distinctive architecture, Kate sought to enhance the bones of the building.

'This home was a real labor of love,' she explains. 'We worked closely with the clients and the builder to preserve and bring back some of the original details. For example, when the client wanted the old single pane glass doors removed (for energy efficiency), we were able to reuse one in the pantry area.'

While its interiors are refreshingly contemporary yet sympathetic, its exteriors feel authentic, a shining example of traditional architecture at its best. The arched doors, the unique chimney, and the array of windows scattered around the home all give the property a lovable charm.

4. A Tudor style house filled with original features in Portland

Jessica Helgerson has a design studio in both Paris and Portland. She recently revived a historic Tudor home in Portland, updating its floor plan and enhancing its original features with new woodwork that matches the original design.

'This gorgeous Tudor home had several rooms that were already absolutely lovely, amongst them the living room and library,' Jessica says. 'For those, our goal was simply to preserve the rooms and furnish them. We took our cue from those spaces – with their dark douglas fir beams, paneling, and cabinetry, leaded glass windows, plaster walls, and simple details – for the rooms that we entirely re-imagined (amongst others the primary bedroom and bath, the kitchen and butler's pantry, the breakfast nook). '

She adds, 'That’s always our method when approaching a project with good bones; to very carefully study the existing house and then reflect the best parts of it in the new work we do. This is how we avoid our work feeling dated, and instead create rooms that feel right for the house itself.'

5. An idyllic Tudor in Minneapolis

Built in 1927, this Tudor Revival style home is located in a Minneapolis suburb. Despite its age, the house feels refreshingly contemporary, both inside and out, blending history with modern finishes.

Its characteristic porch, prominent chimney, and array of mismatched windows are tell-tale signs of the classic architectural style. Acknowledging its surroundings, the exterior of the house has been painted cream, a refreshingly modern addition not often seen paired with this property style. Its unique decorative brick features give the facade intricacy and character, paired with the asymmetrical windows and door.

Tudor Revival style homes are filled with charm and serve as enduring examples of America's broad architectural history. From Queen Anne to Ranch style homes, Tudor style falls somewhere in between these two distinctive looks, taking inspiration from Medieval architecture and fusing it into the American landscape.

If you're wondering where to begin with home decor, don't fret – Macy's has you covered. Here, you'll find every single furniture and decorative piece you could possibly imagine, making it super easy to give your home the relaxed, resort-style vibe that's essential for summertime. Think floral and beachy prints, fresh greenery, stylish decor pieces, outdoor entertaining must-haves, and more.

Instead of splurging on a pricey vacation, why not invest in yourself and turn your home into the summer escape you've been dreaming of? The right pieces can help you create your own taste of paradise – imagine tropical, bright accents and charming decor that make every day feel like a staycation. Sure, a week in Italy sounds amazing, but why not transform your backyard into a Tuscan escape you can enjoy every single day? Here are some of my top picks from Macy's that'll help you bring those dreamy summer home vibes to life.

BBQ Season

Summer is for firing up the grill and hosting unforgettable outdoor gatherings, and Macy's has everything you need for the occasion. From lavish BBQ grills and patio dining sets to multi-use bar carts and stylish dinnerware, these items will make you the ultimate host this season.

Coastal Chic

Coastal design is making waves in home decor right now. With pieces like a contemporary fish-shaped serving platter, seashell-accented lamps, and coral-designed pillows, you can bring the breezy, beachy vibes to your home, even if you're miles away from an ocean.

Pops of Color

Summer is the season to brighten up your home with bold, cheerful hues. From a colorful quilt set and vibrant table lamp to a trendy butter-yellow cooler and eye-catching cookware, these pieces add the perfect pops of color to your space.

Finishing Touches

Adding a few thoughtful accent pieces can instantly make your space feel more polished, inviting, and summer-ready. Think chic vases, decorative trays, eye-catching candlesticks, and greenery that brings life to your home. These are the pieces that tie a room together and give it that effortless, elevated resort feel. Whether you want to add more flair to your dining area, coffee table, or a vacant shelf, Macy's has all the decor to help you make a statement this season.

When it comes to how to hang plates, I tried a few options before landing on the best one. I tried the popular option of wire hangers, which are specifically designed for this job. But while my kitchen might embrace quirky and characterful design, when it comes to the details, I am a perfectionist, and the fact that I could see the hangers on the edge of the plate wasn't going to work.

I also tried adhesive strips that didn't feel sturdy enough for my heaviest pieces, and hooks that made the plates stick out too much. I wanted something strong and invisible. Then, a designer recommended the Disc Adhesive Plate Hanger.

The adhesive stickers weren't the cheapest option I tried for my gallery wall, the wire plate hangers were around $12 for 12, but despite them being advertised as invisible, they aren't, and if, like me, you are a stickler for aesthetics, spend the few extra dollars on the stickers, because they truly are invisible.

I also tried a no-nails option too but found that for the weight of my plates, the size of the recommended hook was so huge that the plate noticeably stuck out into the wall. I think you would be fine with heavy-weight Command strips if you had lighter plates or are renting for a shorter period, but I am so precious about my finds, I was worried they would fall and smash. I have had the plates on my wall using the Disc plate hanger for over six months now, and they have never budged.

Hanging plates on the wall is a really simple way to update a kitchen with things you already own. I had so many beautiful plates hiding in my cabinets, and now they are out on show full time, not just when I host dinner parties.

How you hang them really makes the look – until I discovered these stickers, I was never happy with how they sat, but now they are really secure, no fuss distracting from the plates, and they sit totally flush to the wall. The whole job was so easy, and I plan to update my hanging plates with the seasons too to give my kitchen the easiest of refreshes.

While packing, I've been taking a long, hard look at what counts as essential for a home in 2025, and my decisions are surprising me. Things I thought were key to a happy life are no longer needed, while some things many would think were unnecessary are, in fact, important to the way my new, smaller rooms look and feel.

I've been learning about what are the design essentials every home needs (and these are coming with me in this move), and the things that I definitely don't need, especially when space is tighter.

The non-essentials I am ditching in this move

Over the years, designers have told me these pieces were essential, and I believed them. But now I am moving into a home where space is tighter, I have realized these pieces are a bit of a luxury – a definite non-essential.

1. A home office sofa

At one point, surely after COVID, a sofa was a home office essential. We were all spending so much time on video calls that a relaxed seating option was a necessity. But, surprise, surprise, mine has just become a dumping ground for mail, clean laundry, discarded sweaters, and bits of old envelopes that have important work notes scribbled on them. The only one who actually sits on it is my cat. So it's going, unable to justify its position in the removal van.

2. A bed-end bench

It's what hotels do, right? A cushioned bench at the end of the bed, somewhere to sit in comfort as you gather your thoughts or dry your hair or wait for your partner to finish getting ready. But, like my office sofa, it just became a place for half-worn clothes or laundry that needed to be put away, anything but relaxing to look at. It's gone.

3. Entryway seating

You may be sensing a theme here, but yes, the bench in my entryway, has become less a place to sit and calmly put my shoes on, as it is a place to throw mail, bags, and coats the moment I walk in the door. Entryways are meant to be pass-throughs; they were never designed to be places to linger. So get rid of any seating and swap for a console so you can actually get in some entryway storage, as well as a nice spot to style some vignettes.

The design essentials coming with me

These are the pieces that have survived my stringent decluttering for downsizing and will be making their way to my next home.

1. A comfy and stylish office chair

Osteopaths look away now, as I'm sure this flies in the face of all Health and Safety wisdom, but in light of not having an office sofa, I'm clinging even more firmly to my comfy office chair.

I've requisitioned one of my velvet dining chairs for the job. It's not ergonomic, it doesn't swivel, but it does have a high back and so offers some level of support. Essential for the piece of furniture I use more than probably anything else in my home.

2. A characterful collection of crockery

My glassware and mug collection are both being thinned down. Anything that isn't part of a set, anything that is not a favorite, is going (so much less to bubble wrap). But my bowls and plates? Particularly my salad bowls? They're staying. Loved and collected over time, they bring real character and charm to the table. You can always buy new glassware, but you can't buy that one salad bowl you've had for years and that still brings character to a kitchen every time I've moved house.

3. Verstile throw pillows

I'd fallen out of love with couch pillows lately. Two boisterous puppies had chewed all mine up, and moving them out of reach each day to bring them back down in the evening under supervision was too much like hard work. But since my dogs have calmed down, I've reintroduced them, reminding myself how a little pop of color goes a long way. Yes, they're bulky to pack, but yes, they're staying.

4. Chic candlesticks

Ok, but hear me out. Yes I think candlesticks are essential. Instant ambience creators, turning a dinner into A Dinner, or bath time into A Soak. Or, of course, in a power outage, you'll be so glad you have plenty of vessels to house your candles. Plus, they're tall and skinny and really easy to wrap. So while my unlit scented candles are going, my candlesticks – and the candles that go in them – are staying.

5. Timeless vases

Ok, so this has been harder to justify, as even the tiniest of my vessels needs a lot of bubble wrap (and therefore a lot of space in a packing box) to ensure it arrives in my new home safely. And while I probably ought to let them go (seriously, they're at three boxes now), I can't. Because placing them on a new shelf in a new house, or on the same dining table in a new dining room, makes the place feel like home. I think it's ok to have illogical loves of things just for their beauty, and for that to make them essential. Kind of essential, anyway. They're staying.

6. Decorative trays

If I were decluttering, surely I should declutter both the stuff that goes on my decorative tray and the tray itself. But I can't get rid of my vessels, and so I can't get rid of my tray, which helps to contain the objects and create a sense of order. Anyway, it's slim and mostly flat, so it packs like a dream.

I swear by trays as a decor essential because they really elevate a surface and make a vignette look more intentional. And they are so versatile, you can pop one on a coffee table or an ottoman for a spot to perch a drink or add one to the middle of a kitchen island to stack cookbooks and add a vase of flowers.

Clearly, my definition of essential wouldn't be the same as, say, Marie Kondo's. Unless you factor in that all these things bring me joy, or good back support in the case of that office chair. What I've really done is look at what is cluttering up my life (or being used as a vessel for clutter) and get rid of that, keeping only what makes me happy and will actually work in my smaller space.

If you enjoy decorating with antiques, it's worth knowing how online auctions work and how to get the most out of them. And although auctions are filled with goodies, they can feel a little different from your typical online shopping experience. To understand the best ways to navigate an online auction, I asked interior designers who have long been buying antiques for their top tips that will help you secure a steal.

The best sites for online auctions

• Live Auctioneers offers a range of pieces at a range of prices, from art to furniture. You can find the specific style you're after with the search engine and set your maximum bid from the outset.
• eBay is filled with affordable treasures from sellers across the globe. You can find pretty much anything on here and bid on pieces at competitive prices.
• Etsy is best for handcrafted goods (although you can find antiques here too), offering bespoke items made by creatives across the world.
• Christie's & Sotheby's fall on the more luxurious side of the spectrum. Known for their prestigious collections, rare art, ceramics, and furniture, these auction houses offer the rarest and most collectible pieces from notable makers.

1. Request a condition report

There are antiques you should be collecting and others that are less valuable; however, no matter which piece you have your eye on, you should always check the condition of the piece before you buy.

Interior designer Charlotte Boundy incorporates antique furniture and decor in her own home as well as her clients'. She says, 'I love buying antiques and vintage paintings at auction. Aside from triple-checking dimensions (which is a common mistake), when bidding on a piece, always request a condition report if the item's wear and tear isn’t clearly shown.'

She adds, 'A charming patina is one thing, but hidden cracks or repairs can turn a treasure into a complete waste of money. Once you have successfully bid and won an item, take time to arrange the best courier possible. I recently bought a Victorian cased bird at auction. When it arrived in my studio, it was no longer attached to its legs.'

2. Be specific with your search terms

When trying to hunt down the collectibles interior designers look for when antique shopping, you need to perfect your search terms to ensure that the results you are being delivered match your expectations.

Laura Hammett, Creative Director of the eponymous design studio, says 'One of my biggest tips is to be specific with your search terms – using the right keywords is essential. Think in terms of material, era, and style. For example, when I was sourcing a piece for our own home, I searched for a ‘19th Century French Louis Philippe Commode’ and found the perfect one on eBay.'

The key is to use definite terms, ensuring to describe the piece as much as possible. Specifying the qualities of your desired object ensures you find it amongst the endless other options that could be named under similar titles.

3. Do the research into what you want for your space

While sticking to one platform might seem more straightforward, scouring other sites will ensure you're getting the best deal, both in terms of condition and price.

If you're following the eclectic interior trend and want to find the missing piece to your scheme, ensure that you thoroughly investigate an auction site, as you might discover a gem you'd not yet considered. Interior designer and gallerist James Yarosh says he always thoroughly researches a site before deciding on a piece.

'Sourcing vintage pieces is integral to my design process, because they add depth and history to a space. Blurring timelines keeps a room from feeling one-note. When sourcing these pieces, I always start with a deep dive through online platforms to discover pieces that will “answer” the question my current design project is asking. Once I have identified the objects that satisfy the design tastes of the specific projects, I then take another deep dive for those pieces through other platforms in order to curate design solutions for different sizes and budgets.'

4. Shop with emotion (within reason)

With an array of treasures to choose from, the thought of deciding on a piece might seem impossible; however, it's important to put emotion above all else (within reason). If an item stops you in your tracks, it's probably worth a bid.

Interior designer Amy Kartheiser says she 'shops with feeling and not just function'. One of the things making your antiques look cheap is a lack of meaning and purpose behind their purchase. Always seek out pieces that mean something to you. She says, 'If something gives you pause or sparks emotion, lean into that. I’ve built entire rooms around one beautiful, unexpected find, such as a marble bust, a hand-thrown vessel, or a landscape that feels like it’s always been part of the home. One of my current clients constantly asks the question before anything is purchased, "Does it spark joy?". Nothing is purchased without a yes.'

Laura agrees that emotion is key. 'When something is truly special, you’ll know – I’ve waited months to find the right bobbin leg table or an antique clock, and those are always the pieces that make the home feel layered and lived-in.'

5. Measure the scale

Accuracy is key with any home purchase. Whether you're decorating with art or shopping for furniture, measure the designated area it's supposed to fill and ensure that the potential piece aligns – the last thing you want is a chair that's too big for the space it's supposed to sit in, a common mistake to avoid when buying furniture.

Amy says, 'A 36" console might sound petite until it arrives and completely overtakes a narrow hallway. Always measure, twice actually, and don’t forget to consider how it will live in your client's world, not just look good in a photo.'

6. Check more than one vendor

If you are trying to stick to a certain price point, avoid vintage and antique decor that starts near your maximum spend (as it'll go up when bidding begins); instead, use the same search term and browse other websites to find a better alternative.

Interior designer Jennifer Rhode incorporates art and antiques in many of her designs. She suggests, 'When searching for vintage pieces online, try several websites because the pricing can be wildly different even for items from the same maker. A set of "Moller chairs" might run twice as much with one vendor as another, so it is good to put a little extra time into your search. The shipping costs can also vary a lot, too, so you need to factor that into your decision.'

While it's tempting to go for the more affordable option, don't forget to consider the condition of the piece, as this may be factored into the lower price.

7. Consider the source

Always consider the location of your potential buy. Online auctions offer a vast selection due to the variety of vendors from across the globe. This can sometimes be an issue for certain pieces, particularly large furniture or rare art, that could get damaged during shipping.

On top of this, Jennifer says it's important to consider origin for other reasons. 'If you are purchasing vintage wooden pieces, be mindful of the climate they are going to and where they are coming from. I worked in Colorado for many years, where the climate is extremely dry. Choosing wooden pieces from a climate with humidity (New York, for example) is risky because the wood is not acclimated to the dry climate and may crack or warp. I learned this the hard way (luckily with chairs for my own home, not a client's.) It is best to shop at local vintage stores for these kinds of furnishings, or make sure the piece is coming from a "like climate."

The beauty of sites like eBay is that you can select your location and opt to collect the piece.

8. Set a budget

Last but by no means least, always set a budget. This will prevent you from getting stuck in an adrenaline-fuelled bidding war.

Once you've decided how much you want to pay for something, it can become much easier to find what you're looking for. Most auction sites will allow results to be filtered according to their price, which means that the search bracket has been narrowed down, allowing you to source a piece you can actually afford. 'I always set a firm maximum budget to avoid any last-minute panic decisions,' Laura adds.

When browsing an online auction site, try to have one piece in mind so you don't get overwhelmed or distracted. 'Don’t be afraid to look beyond the glossy shots,' advises Laura. 'Many of the best finds come from listings with slightly less polish but with incredible bones. A little restoration or clever styling can completely transform a forgotten piece into a future heirloom.'

So, which are the Sherwin-Williams colors designers select for their kitchen cabinet colors time and time again? And what qualities do these hues bring to the design?

We’ve asked interior experts to share the shades they’ve chosen and how the color works in the room. From the understated to the bold, some of these paints are Sherwin-Williams' best sellers, classics that come up again and again, and some are more unique, but pick a paint from this list and you are already off to a strong start.

1. Take Five

A specific element of the design can suggest the perfect shade for kitchen cabinets – and that was the case for a light blue kitchen that Black Ink Interiors remodeled in Flagstaff, Arizona.

‘It features Sherwin-Williams Take Five paint color,’ says Jenny Slingerland, owner and principal designer. ‘It’s the perfect blue paint to complement the Schumacher wallpaper and to bring cheer to a previously dark kitchen.’

2. Limewash

Shannon Adamson of Shannon Adamson Interior Design selected Limewash from Sherwin-Williams for this neutral kitchen.

‘This is a perfect light neutral because it treads that very fine line between cream and gray,’ she explains. ‘It’s much deeper than a standard builder white, creating an unmistakably custom look in the cabinetry while bringing the airy feel the clients wanted.

‘The island was painted in Sherwin-Williams Cornwall Slate to provide tonal variation to the palette, and to emphasize the pale green handmade backsplash tile,’ she adds.

3. Austere Gray

Gray kitchen fan? Take a look at Austere Gray, the color chosen for the cabinets in this Florida kitchen by Cara Shahbandi of Stanton Home Design, which responds beautifully to the way in which the light changes through the day.

‘The front of the house and kitchen face directly east, so you get this beautiful warm morning light, but the window above the sink faces north, so it brings in some moodiness to the color as well,’ she explains. ‘I would definitely consider it a chameleon color as it changes so much throughout the day from a brighter sage green to a gray-green color.’

4. Tricorn Black

A black kitchen can prove an elegant choice, and cabinets in black give this kitchen a look that won’t date. ‘Tricorn Black is a classic, true black that adds sophistication and elegance,’ says Lauren Lerner, CEO and founder of Living with Lolo.

‘It’s perfect for kitchen cabinetry or an accent wall, creating a bold contrast with lighter countertops or backsplashes,’ she says. ‘Its versatility suits styles from modern to transitional, and its timeless look ensures it never goes out of style.’

5. Greek Villa

Want a warm take on a white kitchen? Take a lead from Jennifer Guerin of JG Color Studios, who chose Greek Villa from Sherwin-Williams for this room.

‘This hue of white is a warm, creamy white tone, which creates a welcoming and inviting atmosphere,’ she says. ‘Its subtle yellow undertones prevent it from appearing stark or cold, and it mixes well with the cooler backsplash and existing countertop.’

6. Realist Beige

If you love to decorate with neutrals, be inspired by this beige kitchen. ‘We used Realist Beige,’ says Lauren Utsch of Lauren Christopher Designs.

‘Our goal was to achieve a light mushroom color to give some depth to the kitchen. With the open floor plan and white walls, we wanted to add a touch of warmth so it was not so stark white. The white oak island blended well with the beige.’

7. Night Owl

Green kitchens span shades including olive and apple, but you might also consider this take on the color for cabinets.

‘I used Sherwin-Williams Night Owl, a really lovely moody green that offers a beautiful balance of gray and green without going too army green or too sage-y,’ says Shannon Adamson. ‘With the vaulted ceiling and light wall colors, we needed the cabinets to lend visual weight and contrast to the otherwise light tones in the space. Night Owl provides that effect without feeling heavy or overbearing.’

8. Extra White

If you need to increase natural light in your kitchen, consider Extra White for kitchen cabinets, which Valerie Helgeson of Design Directions combined with a second color from Sherwin-Williams.

‘The clients were set on bringing in a strong blue, but since the kitchen connects directly to the dining and living areas, we wanted to keep it from feeling too bold or disconnected,’ she explains. ‘We landed on Seaworthy for the island: it’s a rich blue-gray that feels grounded but still brings a lot of color, and we balanced it with Extra White on the perimeter cabinets to keep everything feeling bright and cohesive.’

9. Dorian Gray

Try combining takes on the color when you’re decorating with gray. ‘When we landed on Benjamin Moore Rodeo for the walls throughout most of the house, we knew we’d found the perfect warm pale gray for our client,’ says Brad Ramsey, principal and founder of Brad Ramsey Interiors.

‘Sherwin-Williams Dorian Gray provides a slightly richer gray on the cabinetry while not overpowering the space or making it too dark. For this kitchen, we needed some warmth on the cabinets to balance the dark zinc hood and wood ceiling details in the adjacent spaces. It’s an inviting cook space that beckons the family to hang out while the meal is being prepared.’

10. Waterloo

If you want to add vitality to a blue kitchen, check out this hue. ‘We chose to paint these kitchen cabinets a moody, bold, sophisticated blue by Sherwin-Williams, called Waterloo, for its captivating depth and elegance,’ says Gina Hicks, owner and principal of Vivid Interiors.

‘This rich hue transforms the kitchen into a vibrant space where creativity flourishes and memories will be made. We envision lively ABBA-infused dance parties, as the color inspires joy and celebration. It’s not just paint; it’s the perfect backdrop for good times and great company.’

The best Sherwin-Williams paint color for your kitchen cabinets will create the characteristics these interior experts have identified. The color’s warmth or cool, interaction with the room’s natural light and its light reflectance, and the mood the room should have are all crucial to make the right selection.

When creating a memorable home, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach; what makes a home memorable will vary from person to person. For those who love to decorate boldly, vibrant color combinations and flamboyant wall coverings are all guaranteed to bring wow-factor and create a talking point.

That said, memorable doesn't have to mean maximalist. Sometimes less is more; indeed, minimalist spaces can command equal attention when designed well. In addition to color and pattern, architectural features can have a role to play, as can lighting and furniture choices. Artwork, too, can transform a room, while carefully curated collectibles, handcrafted and meaningful items, will all add unique character to a space.

Really, creating a memorable home is about designing a home that feels like you. So, whether you’re embarking on a complete redesign or simply want to bring more personality to an existing space, you’re in the right place, as we’ve rounded up an array of head-turning schemes and ideas to inspire, alongside some handy tips from top designers.

1. Add a whimsical wall mural

Exotic wall murals and wallpapers are a fabulous way to create magical, memorable spaces. Decorated in a beautiful hand-painted mural from De Gournay, this dining room instantly transports guests to an exuberant tropical jungle and makes for a memorable dinner setting.

To dial up the glamour, the designer, Courtnay Tartt Elias, founder of Creative Tonic Design, added a gloss ceiling and an elaborate chandelier, along with a luxurious antique table. Not only does this mural make a great talking point, it also holds personal significance for the owners, conjuring happy memories of travel and holidays.

'To make a home genuinely memorable, I like to start by getting to know the client on a deeper level – asking about their favorite travel destinations, meaningful memories, and even quirky family obsessions,' says Courtnay. 'This client loved Palm Beach and had an affinity for monkeys, so we worked with de Gournay wallpaper to customize and personalize details. It’s all about telling their story – that’s when a space becomes truly unforgettable!'

2. Embrace bold color combinations

Color is by far the easiest way to create instant impact in a room, and embracing contrasting colors within the same space will immediately command attention. When choosing a head-turning palette for a colorful room, take inspiration from the color wheel and go for two tones that sit opposite each other, as done here with a peach and green combination.

‘Color is a wonderful way to highlight or incorporate architectural details into your design schemes. Perhaps the bravest approach is combining contrasting colors, by using color blocks of contrasting mid-strength colors to create a dynamic and bold scheme,’ says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene. Alternatively, ‘a tonal color combination, perhaps using a deeper shade of the same color, or a complementary color will create a softer, more harmonious interior.’

‘The elegant warm stone, Split Pink is a versatile shade that will radiate peachy warmth when paired with contrasting greens. Use above paneling in Harley Green and Livid to create a dynamic contrast that is both sophisticated and elegant.’

3. Go for a color drench

If you're looking to create a lasting impression, then you can't go wrong with a color-drenched scheme. Dark colors work particularly well in living rooms and snug rooms where you want to create an intimate feel, as demonstrated in this luxury living room by Storie Collective.

'We wanted this space to feel cocooned and intimate, with a sense of quiet luxury. The rich, saturated blue immediately creates mood, and the velvet wallcovering from Phillip Jeffries enhances that with its soft texture and subtle sheen,’ explains Sara Swabb, founder of Storie Collective. ‘It gently reflects light in a way that gives the walls depth and movement, especially in the evening, which wouldn’t be possible with flat paint alone. It’s both inviting and dramatic, which felt right for a room meant for retreat.’

Sometimes, the technique can actually help make small living rooms feel bigger, as the continuous use of color blurs boundaries between the walls and floor, and distracts from the size and shape of the room.

4. Layer patterned fabrics for a maximalist look

For a memorable, maximalist home, lean into layers and combine patterned fabrics in a range of designs and scales. If you’re a fan of English country interiors, then chintz and stripes are a go-to pairing.

'With florals and stripes, the trick is balancing the boldness of both designs while keeping the overall look cohesive. Start by picking one of the patterns to be the focus,’ says fabric designer Cinny. Here, Raine floral chintz is the star of the show, used generously on the curtains and bed canopy, while Arthur stripe makes the perfect coordinate. ‘A stripe helps make the room feel more modern and less fussy. Both these designs are equally bold, but the coordinating color palette helps tie them together and avoids them clashing.’

To dial up the look further still, embrace frills, ruffles and trims over curtains and soft furnishings for a flamboyant finishing touch. ‘I always tell clients not to be afraid of layers. Let the curtains be full, choose gathered silk lampshades for a soft, warm glow, and don’t forget the details like trims, braids, and little flourishes,’ says Henriette von Stockhausen. ‘Also include something unexpected, like a quirky object or a pop of color, to stop the space from feeling too 'done' or predictable.’

5. Embrace muted maximalism

If you’re cautious about decorating with color then fear not, as you don’t need to rely on bold hues to create a memorable home. Neutral tones can have just as much impact, as this scheme proves. In this powder room Sara Swabb of Storie Collective has channeled neutral maximalism by combining a leafy wallpaper by Martha Armitage with a striking marble sink, resulting in a space bursting with individuality.

‘A memorable home feels deeply personal and a little unexpected. I always encourage clients to choose one or two bold gestures in a space – maybe it’s a large-scale wallpaper in a powder room, a room cocooned in the same color, fabric or texture on the walls, or a quirky family heirloom on display. Even in neutral palettes, contrast in materiality or patina creates a lasting impact, such as in this project,’ explains Sara Swabb.

6. Create a statement ceiling

For so long, ceilings were ignored in interior design, but now they are being rediscovered as a fifth wall with many designers treating them as a canvas for creative paint effects and wallpapers. Whether teamed with bold walls as part of a maximalist interior or to make a talking point in a neutral room, decorative ceiling ideas are a great way to make a home more memorable. They can also serve as an optical device, helping to lead the eye upwards.

‘This room, which we call the den, is meant for lounging, TV watching, and kids playing video games, but it's open to the rest of the house, so we needed a way to make it feel cozy and intimate. Adding the wallpaper on the ceiling gives it a cocooned feel and adds pattern in an otherwise patternless room,’ says Corine Maggio, founder of CM Natural Designs. ‘The orange suede sofa was the perfect color to complement the blue in the drapery, and it also ties in the wallpaper, which has small bits of citrus notes in the flowers and butterfly wings.’

7. Hang personal artwork

Whether it’s a large piece above a sofa or a series of works hung as a gallery wall, thoughtfully chosen artwork, carefully framed and displayed, can make a room more memorable. When it comes to decorating with art, there are different approaches to take, explains interior designer, Henriette von Stockhausen.

‘Sometimes the client’s existing collection becomes the natural starting point, helping to define the color scheme or the overall vibe of a space. I love beginning with art, it offers such insight into a client’s personality, tastes, humour, and even their appetite for risk or restraint. It’s a great window into who they are,’ says Henriette von Stockhausen, founder of VSP Interiors. ‘Ideally, we begin with the art, but it’s not always practical to have the perfect piece lined up for every room from the outset. In those cases, we source artwork that complements the finished scheme.’

8. Curate a display of meaningful possessions and collectibles

Filling your interiors with things you love is what really puts the heart and soul into a home and makes it more memorable. Be it decorative objet d'art, family photos, handcrafted pieces, or antique collectibles, these pieces have stories to tell and help make your space unique.

Built-in shelving makes the perfect space to display collectibles, or you could opt for an antique dresser for extra character and charm, as shown here in the home of Corine Maggio, interior designer and founder of CM Natural Designs.

'Layering things that are personal to you: travel souvenirs, heirloom pieces, and things that show your hobbies and interests. These kinds of things are unique to you and make your home more meaningful,' says Corine Maggio.

'These shelves are filled with pieces that are beautiful, functional, and deeply personal. There’s a jar of old dominoes we found at an antique street fair. A glass container holds personalized matches from our wedding, alongside a surprisingly heavy piece of the Golden Gate Bridge and a folded book I bought at my favorite coffee shop in San Diego, which also sold antiques. There are many books that have shaped us, and special coffee table books gifted or collected over the years.'

9. Create a feature floor

Sometimes bold wall treatments can be overpowering. If you prefer to keep a space neutral, but are still keen to inject personality to make a room more memorable, then a feature floor makes a great alternative. Whether it’s patterned floor tiles or a statement rug, making an impact underfoot is a clever way to create quiet drama. Here, Alexandra Azat, founder of Plaster & Patina, chose patterned floor tiles to bring life to this neutral kitchen.

'Our absolute favorite way to create a memorable space is through a custom, unique floor pattern,' says Alexandra Azat. 'Although we are all used to seeing wallpaper, it isn't the norm to have access to creating a completely customized, interesting floor. We created this completely customized encaustic floor here for this old Spanish home, creating a space that feels nostalgic yet incredibly updated and bespoke.'

When it comes to how to make a home memorable, there's no blueprint. Often, the most memorable homes are those that have unique charm and aptly reflect the personality of their owners. The key is to have fun and fill your home with the things you love.

'A memorable home does not shy away from showing the true personality of the homeowner,' says Naomi Dresser, principal designer and founder of Fig St. Design. 'Nothing shows the layers of life better than an authentic art collection, bold wallpaper patterns, and sentimental trinkets collected over the years.'

Rooms that all old homes once had and perhaps fell out of fashion are once more becoming all the rage. From larders to keeping rooms, these traditional spaces that were once a staple in classical architecture are popping up in interiors everywhere. While each has its own unique purpose and charm, there's one room that I couldn't be happier to see being factored into house designs of the moment – the sleeping porch.

The clue is in the name when it comes to this historic room. It's a space designed for the utmost relaxation during the warmer months, allowing you to bask in the warm breeze without taking a step outside.

What is a sleeping porch?

Described as 'a summer’s lullaby' by designer Bryan Graybill, a sleeping porch was once the perfect place for rest during the warmer months. Typically located within an extension of a property (namely the porch), a sleeping porch was a popular feature pre-aircon times, fusing outdoor and indoor living, creating a breezy spot to unwind.

It's a common room that older homes once had, but have fallen out of favor as air conditioning replaced the need for these cool, indoor/outdoor spaces. There's a bit of a medical history here too, as sleeping porches were encouraged in the Victorian era to ensure plenty of fresh air to stave off diseases like tuberculosis.

But today they are just a calming spot to feel the fresh cool air and still be surrounded by beautiful interiors, and designers say this dated feature is due a comeback.

Not to be confused with front porch ideas, sleeping porches are more elaborate in design, enclosed, usually with screen windows, and can sometimes feature on the first floor and stretch the whole length of the home.

How are designers incorporating sleeping porches today?

Sounds dreamy? We agree, so here we speak with designers who have embraced the sleeping porch and incorporated them into their modern-day remodels.

1. To create the most inviting of guest bedrooms

Sandra Cavallo, known for her account Old Silver Shed, created a dreamy sleeping porch in her Cape Cod home so she could gaze at the sea view. She said, 'When we designed our house on Cape Cod, we knew we would have a lot of guests (who doesn’t want to visit the Cape in the summer?) Though our home is a new build, we wanted it to look and feel like it has been here for a hundred years, so we were careful to study the old, shingle style beach cottages that dot the New England coast and incorporate some of the traditional design elements.'

Embracing the Cape Cod house style, Sandra added the porch to honor the traditional architecture. She said, 'I decided that our guest bedroom would be modeled after a classic sleeping porch, where people would sleep in the summer when the heat was oppressive.'

'The room faces southwest, so in summer there is always a light breeze. I kept the bedroom small and cozy, wrapped it with windows and doors to take advantage of the breeze. We used old exterior doors for the entry to make you feel like you were stepping outside. The rest of my home is a mix of modern and vintage, but the guestroom has a distinctly cottage feel, so my guests would enjoy a truly charming Cape Cod experience.'

2. To add character to a new build home

This coastal-style sleeping porch, designed by Carly Ahlman Design, feels refreshingly relaxing and serene. How much do you want to prop yourself in that bed with a book on a sundrenched afternoon?

'We love the inherently cozy feel that a sleeping porch creates,' says Carly. 'They are the perfect place for built-in beds for sleepovers or a sunny place to set up a workspace. We also love that these spaces are reminiscent of older homes that have enclosed porches – they are a great way to make a new construction home feel more charming.'

3. Too add extra space in an underused part of the home

Designed by Lauren Conner Interiors, this sleeping porch is not located in the traditional porch area of the home but instead sits in a former garage. The designer made use of the underused space attached to the home and transformed it into a relaxing and plush sleep space that feels cozy and connected to nature.

Lauren says, 'This former garage has been transformed into a laid-back game room and extra sleeping porch for the main lakehouse overflow. It’s a rustic, no-frills space with a charming camp vibe and plenty of vintage finds, many of them original to the cabin. The collection of maps documents different time periods of the lake. Think of it as indoor camping, but with the comfort of A/C and the bonus of games for some good old-fashioned fun.'

Sleeping porches are a timeless addition to a home, allowing you to enjoy fresh air and a garden view with utter ease and relaxation. A room every period home once had, they're a peaceful and elegant space that makes year-round lounging even more serene.

Since discovering there's actually a lot of chic furniture to be found on Amazon, I have become a bit obsessed with hunting it down. And in my daily scrolling, I have also found that some of my most-shouted-about pieces have gone on sale, before Amazon Prime Day even gets started. Officially, Amazon Prime Day starts on 08/07, but I have seen prices already start to drop.

Right now, Amazon is my go-to for great furniture deals, good quality pieces, at reasonable prices, with quick delivery times. But I'm aware that shopping for furniture on Amazon can be quite daunting. The endless scrolling, countless options, and mixed reviews can leave you feeling even more confused than when you started. So you might as well let the experts take on the hard work and filter everything down by top reviews, best brands, and designer lookalikes for you. Here's everything you need to know.

Best Amazon Furniture

Here are a few quick links to the best brands I personally love if you want to do some of your own browsing, but if you prefer a little more guidance, I have also categorized furniture finds by room if you keep scrolling. I've also included my top Amazon furniture deals happening today below too.

• Creative Co-Op
• TOV Furniture
• Jennifer Taylor Home
• Bali & Pari
• SAFAVIEH
• Martha Stewart
• Meridian Furniture

'I tend to browse by brand,' says Lindsey Davis, our Content Director for Lifestyle eCommerce. 'Safavieh has a range of classic and luxe look items at a very reasonable price. Christopher Knight (yes, of Brady Bunch fame) offers some beautiful mid-century style pieces and on-trend silhouettes. Plank + Beam was a fairly recent find for me, but it is now my first stop for solid wood furniture I can build at home. Even Ikea furniture is on there now, which is great if you can't reach one in person or are dissuaded by the delivery fees.'

Shopping for furniture on Amazon can be hit or miss. But when you know what to look for, like solid wood frames, quality upholstery, and thoughtful design details, you can absolutely find gems. I have also been personally victimized by online furniture shopping that either looks cheap when it arrives or falls apart within a year. That's why I've put customer reviews at the forefront of this hunt, making sure I've sifted through every review and recommendation to bring you a truly trusted list.

Here are 24 of my favorite finds, sorted by room for your ease:

Best Amazon living room furniture

The living room is where everything happens – lounging, hosting, working, you name it. So it deserves some special attention. I’ve rounded up the best Amazon finds that balance comfort and stylish living room furniture trends, from chic coffee tables to cozy accent chairs that instantly elevate your space.

Best Amazon bedroom furniture

Your bedroom should feel like a luxury retreat, but furnishing it doesn’t have to be expensive or overcomplicated. Amazon is actually one of the best places to buy bedroom furniture, so long as you take your time to do the research.

I’ve found some surprisingly gorgeous pieces, from space-saving nightstands to upholstered beds that make your bedroom feel calm, considered, and stylish without the designer price tag.

Best Amazon office furniture

A functional home office doesn’t need to feel like a soulless cubicle. Whether you're after a comfy desk chair, a compact desk, or storage, these Amazon office finds combine practicality with good design.

Best Amazon dining room and kitchen furniture

When I was redoing my dining room, I couldn't have been more shocked at the price of chairs and tables these days. Luckily, Amazon makes these big-ticket buys way easier and more accessible, and they've nailed some of the most timeless dining room furniture trends, too.

Is Amazon a good place to buy furniture?

Yes! If the picks above haven't convinced you that there are some seriously chic pieces to be found on Amazon, then I'm not sure what will. Amazon is great for cheap, convenient furniture, but don't let that confuse you; that doesn't mean low-quality or throwaway. As long as you know how to shop Amazon, what to look for, where to look, and do your research, you can find some truly timeless, beautiful pieces.

'For those of us old enough to remember when Amazon only sold books, it isn't the first place that comes to mind when you need new furniture,' adds Lindsey. 'However, as we now all know, there is little you can't get on the online retailer these days, and their furniture selection is as diverse as the rest of their categories.'

What is the best way to shop Amazon for furniture?

Personally, I like to start my search by brand or by storefront rather than by item. Of course, you can check out our list of fave brands at the beginning of this article, and there are lots of lovely designers or influencers with GREAT storefronts to shop, so why not let them do most of the browsing for you? A personal favorite is Lone Fox's Storefront, and I also love to check Chris Loves Julia's page.

Lindsey also recommends being mindful of the algorithm. 'Due to the amount of choice, there is an art to shopping Amazon for furniture,' she explains. 'Remember that the majority of people shopping there are looking for affordability and speed of delivery, so the algorithm often serves the most shopped picks first – expect a range of practical storage furniture and home office essentials.'

'Amazon is popular with college students and parents furnishing kids' rooms on a budget, so you have to dig a bit more to find the more sophisticated selections. But trust me, they are there.'

Finally, the key to shopping Amazon's vast selection is the reviews. I only tend to make a purchase on Amazon if it has a decent amount of reviews at 4* or 5* and love to scroll through customer images and reviews to get the most IRL angles of an item and pros and cons to the order (e.g quick assembly or colors differing to images online).

Luckily, there are plenty of great IKEA hacks to make IKEA furniture look more expensive. So I spoke with IKEA shoppers, interior designers, and home DIYers about their favorite ways of making IKEA furniture look more luxurious and elevated.

The results were endless, proving that affordable furniture can be made to look more luxe. With a keen eye and a bit of DIY knowledge, you can transform even the most mundane pieces into a high-end centerpiece that's both practical and stylish.

Whether you're reupholstering or adding paneling, you can entirely reimagine IKEA furniture with these six nifty ideas that will take your piece from affordable to elevated.

1. Add character to IKEA pieces with paneling and molding

While there are plenty of IKEA pieces that look expensive, an area we all know is more practicality over aesthetics is its storage. All the classic best-selling storage, while versatile and hardworking, lack a luxury feel.

To make your IKEA storage furniture feel more expensive and luxurious, consider adding some form of molding or paneling, as this can transform a plain piece.

Louise Kemp, founder of lkhome__ on Instagram, took a simple IKEA built-in unit from the BILLY series (pictured above) and made it look more expensive by adding some character with paneling. 'I think the main way we made our IKEA units look more expensive was by adding to them,' Laura explains. 'For example, we added coving, a tongue and groove sheet, and additional MDF boards to give it a built-in look.'

To make the unit feel even more bespoke, Louise added some hardware and painted it a refreshing sage green. She adds, 'We also changed out the handles and added antique brass ones, with matching lighting. Finally, we painted it a lovely shade of green, which looks completely different from the plain white Ikea units we started with!'

2. Incorporate aged hardware on drawers, cabinets, and cupboards

Whether you're adding vintage kitchen hardware to your IKEA kitchen or you're fitting new handles on a cupboard or chest of drawers, sophisticated metal accents can make all the difference to a mundane piece of IKEA furniture.

Designers say hardware can make a room look more expensive and can entirely transform a mass-produced piece into a unique work of art. Adding aged accents like brass handles or knobs will make your IKEA furniture feel not only more sophisticated but also add patina and character to a modern piece.

Sarah Brady, Founder and Creative Director of Salt Design Company, says 'Add new hardware to make your IKEA furniture look more expensive. Don’t settle for default hardware. Switch out the knobs and handles for something more stylish, like brass or leather, to instantly upgrade the piece.'

3. Opt for designer collaborations and style simply but effectively

There are some IKEA products that designers swear by, and these picks mostly come from IKEA's frequent designer collaborations. It's in these ranges that you'll find the IKEA furniture that looks the most expensive.

Interior designer Tola Ojuolape says she always opts for pieces that have been designed in collaboration with iconic designers, and these feel more expensive and bespoke.

'When I want my IKEA furniture to look more expensive, I would opt for pieces from IKEA's iconic designer collaborations, such as the Ilse Crawford Collection, which emphasises timeless, sustainable design,' she explains.

'Her rectangular dining tables, often made with natural materials like cork, offer an understated elegance that can be elevated further with thoughtful styling. I would layer the table with complementary vases from her latest collection, textured linens, as well as more vibrant crockery (trays, cups, and vases) from IKEA’s Tesamann’s Collection to create a cohesive, high-end look, especially when hosting.'

And the easier tip Tola offered for elevating IKEA furniture – fresh flowers. Simple but effective. She adds, 'Finally, I would add fresh flowers, nothing overly styled, just thoughtfully arranged. It’s those small, deliberate choices that make the setup feel curated and more high-end.'

4. Elevate your IKEA furniture by mixing it with vintage pieces

Styling an IKEA piece with vintage decor can make just as much difference as entirely revamping it with DIY. Artful and attentive styling elevates even the plainest IKEA pieces, making them look more expensive and unique.

You can make an IKEA bed look more expensive by styling it with vintage bedding and cushions, or you can elevate an IKEA shelving unit and make it feel more interesting by decorating it with layers of antique decor.

Sharing her styling tips, Sarah Brady says, 'Curate your IKEA furniture with intention. Add personal touches like books, artwork, and decorative objects. Layer in textures to elevate open shelving and surfaces with depth and character.'

Decorating with antiques will make your IKEA pieces feel grander and more sophisticated. You want your furniture to feel more refined and unique, so by opting for vintage decor, a characterless piece is instantly improved. For example, an antique vase on an IKEA coffee table is far better than a more mundane style. Or, an ornate gilded mirror can make an IKEA console appear less stark, creating the perfect contrast of styles in a hallway.

6. Paint your piece in a bold color

You'd be surprised how much a lick of paint can transform a piece of IKEA furniture. A timeless paint color can make natural wood pieces feel far less boring and more bespoke.

If you want to transform a lackluster cabinet or shelf into a work of art, follow in Kanza's footsteps. Founder of the Instagram page handmadehome_durham, Kanza has transformed her space using DIY. She says, 'I didn’t want to part with my IKEA Kallax – it’s been with me through multiple house moves, is built to last and offers generous storage, but its basic look didn’t quite fit with my evolving decor style. Rather than replace it, I decided to upcycle it. I added MDF arches to soften the shape and painted the entire piece in Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue – a rich, deep tone that instantly made it feel more elegant and high-end. The transformation turned something functional into a statement piece that now feels cohesive with the rest of the room.'

If you want to transform a shelf or cabinet like Kanza's, opt for the best dark blue paints that ooze sophistication and warmth. For a lighter alternative, consider a refreshing sage green or plaster pink.

Kanza adds, 'My top tip for making KEA furniture look more expensive is to treat it like a blank canvas, a base to add on to rather than a finished product in itself. With a bit of imagination, whether it’s a bold colour, new hardware, or a custom shape, you can turn something functional into something beautiful and personal.'

6. Reupholster cheap IKEA furniture with more luxury textiles

Whether you're reupholstering a chair or creating a cushion, adding a vibrant textile can transform an IKEA piece into a high-end and unique statement.

Interior designer Noz Nozawa added her own DIY cushion to her affordable outdoor IKEA sofa, giving it a much-needed dose of pattern and color. She explains, 'I think IKEA makes some great furniture frames and bases that are a wonderful quality for their value. The way I elevate these frames is by making custom cushions with more vibrant textiles.'

'In my own home, I have the outdoor Jutholmen modular sofa, which I chose principally for its ideal dimensions and boxy arms to fit on my small San Francisco patio. The great price point on the frame gave me room to splurge on seat and back cushions that I covered in a fab Lee Jofa outdoor chenille.'

'You can also elevate IKEA benches or headboards by reupholstering them in a durable performance fabric.'

Small touches can make all the difference to mundane furniture. Whether you're tackling a DIY project or simply styling your piece with vintage decor, there are plenty of ways to make IKEA furniture look more expensive.

It's a hammock chair, which ALDI has done a few of so far this summer, and they have flown off the shelves, but from a style perspective, they have always had a slightly practical, camping vibe to them. However, this new launch is aesthetically pleasing and nails the biggest summer trend: retro stripes. There's also a cream offering for the neutral lovers, and my second favorite, a vibrant terracotta shade, too.

And as well as being super stylish, they are just $19.99! Which, even for ALDI, seems incredibly cheap.

We all know that ALDI Finds don't hang around for long (excuse the pun), so if the hammock chairs are already out of stock online, not available in your area, or you don't have a local ALDI to pop down to, these alternatives have been on my wish list since the start of summer. All still chic and reasonably priced.

A hammock chair just became an essential piece of outdoor furniture for the summer – the perfect piece to create a relaxing spot within your patio. It's also a really affordable buy – even if you miss the $19.99 bargain at ALDI, Wayfair, Walmart, and Target all offer hammock chairs for just over that price point.

Avid vintage collector and interior designer Nate Berkus proved this theory when he took to Instagram to show off one of the most beloved pieces in his home – a vintage orange-tinged marble coffee table.

The coffee table itself is a beautiful, timeless piece, but I was also taking notes on his coffee table styling ideas. It's a surface in my home I rearrange almost weekly, and I learned some key lessons watching Nate talk through his space.

1. Pick a coffee table that's going to add an interesting base

Nate's beautiful marble coffee table has a backstory. He explains in the video, 'Funny story about this coffee table. It's made from Rosso marble. It was designed by Gae Aulenti in the 1960s and 70s, and Knoll produced it.'

'Jeremiah and I saw this table online from an antiques dealer in Palm Springs when we lived in Los Angeles. We called the shop and we said, "Do you still have this table?" and they said, "Yes, we have a truck leaving for LA in an hour, so if you want this table, it can be in your living room in three hours."

It's a gem of a piece, a real statement. Although Nate explains that even for him, the terracotta shade was unfamiliar, the risky choice pays off; 'It was definitely a risk for us years ago when we bought this color, as we thought it was really adventurous. What I love about it is it's definitely post-midcentury, sixties, seventies vibe, but it's super strong, super stable, very architectural, and very sculptural.'

It's the color and textures peeking through the coffee table decor that make it the perfect base for building vignettes with a ton of depth and interest. It's not so bold you can't add whatever you want on top, pattern and texture-wise, but it's also not just a bland background for decor.

If you want to get your hands on the exact same piece as Nate's and have a toppy budget, you can shop the 'Jumbo' marble table on 1st Dibs. Or, I found some similar styles that have that same wonderful texture and warm color.

2. Bring in beautiful pieces that also have a practical purpose

All good coffee table setups are about balance. These are quite practical surfaces that can't totally give way to pure aesthetics, and Nate's coffee table gets that balance spot on using beautiful pieces that could also cater to something practical.

Case in point, the ornate glass dishes that top the piles of books, perfect for coralling clutter and keeping a coffee table organized when you need. I have added a couple to my coffee table set up, and they are ideal temporary homes for keys, spare change, lipsticks – things that would normally be thrown on the table now sit neatly in dishes that double as decor.

Of course, Nate also included a tray within his coffee table decor. A must to give your styling some structure and zone the space. It's also an opportunity to add in some different textures – the softer rattan contrasts with the clean lines of the stacks of books, and the fluid shapes of the vintage candlesticks.

3. Create zones with in your coffee table decor

While Nate's layout of his coffee table decor seems effortless, there's definitely some method behind the arrangement. The pieces are stacked in individual areas that prevent the surface from feeling overwhelmed or cluttered and allow for the beautiful marble to still have plenty of stage time.

Each piece of decor has been given space to breathe. This is something I am guilty of overlooking when rearranging my coffee table, and filling my space to the brim is a coffee table mistake I have been guilty of making – blank space is just as chic as decor.

So, taking inspiration from Nate, I have now 'zoned' my coffee table in a similar way, creating small areas within the surface space. There's definitely more table on show, but it's actually meant that I can be more creative with the decor, creating multiple separate vignettes. And having that negative space has definitely made my coffee table look more expensive too.

My coffee table decor looks better than ever, thanks to a mix of being both pared back and more layered. I can see more of the table, which definitely looks more elegant, with some lovely wooden texture coming through, and yet there's more decor on there than ever, thanks to the zones I have created. It was a 10-minute rearranging job, adding pieces I already had in my home, but following these three simple lessons has made a big difference.

Why? Because it's so versatile. Good for rooms with bright light, low light, calming schemes, or clashing patterns, this best neutral paint manages to work in them all. As a detail color, a ceiling, cabinets, or whole house, designers have embraced this unsung hero of a hue.

'Farrow & Ball Pointing’s restraint is its strength,' says the decorator Ashley Aspin. 'It brings warmth and freshness without competing for attention, so it’s perfect for homes where stronger color is in the art, furniture, tiles, or paneling. It works fantastically well in smaller because it brightens rooms where light can often be compromised – even south-facing spaces.' For more reasons designers love Farrow & Ball Pointing, read on.

What color is Farrow & Ball Pointing?

With so many colors on the color chart, it sometimes takes Farrow & Ball's own in-house brand ambassador, Patrick O'Donnell, to decode them.

'Pointing is the red-based sibling of Wimborne White – both perennially popular and effortlessly useable,' he says. 'There is a perfect softness to Pointing and a brilliant choice for ceilings and trim for a classic look, but without any harshness that a generic white often brings. Due to the very subtle, palest red note within Pointing, it’s an easy win color combination when teamed with delicate pink or warm neutrals, but super flexible with many other colors too.'

How do designers use Farrow & Ball Pointing?

1. To add coziness

For the interiors author, TV presenter and content creator Will Taylor of the wildly popular @brightbazaar account, Farrow & Ball's Pointing is a starting point for many of his schemes. In his New York apartment, above, he chose it for everything at the top of his living room.

'Pointing is my go-to for ceilings and crown molding because it has a soft, warm undertone that makes a room feel cozier compared to a stark white,' Will explains. It allows a sense of crisp freshness above the sludgier wall color, but it isn't as stark as brilliant white paint would be.

2. To bring warmth

The interior designer Portia Fox is known for her luxe and calm schemes, and it's no surprise that Pointing has become somewhat of a favorite. 'We used Farrow & Ball’s Pointing on the walls of the living room, study, entryway, and staircase of this project,' Portia says.

She chose it from a vast number of different options, Pointing being the standout. 'We trialled a few different shades for these spaces before settling on Pointing, which brings a lovely, fresh warmth that pairs beautifully with a wide range of material palettes,' she adds.

3. To add comfort

Rebecca Fisher, founder of the design studio Homeshaped, loves to use Farrow & Ball Pointing on a room's details, as she says it has a comforting effect.

'Pointing is an earthy of-the-land white, which gives it a beautifully unassuming and comforting quality,' Rebecca says. 'A favorite in my home and that of my clients, because it’s happiest as a support act. Although a warm neutral, used on the double doors and sills in my south-facing living room, it blurs the edges between outside and in, softening the cooler greige walls.'

4. For kitchen cabinetry

The beauty of Pointing is that it can add a contrast to sludgier tones without startling them completely.

'This kitchen we did the kitchen cabinetry painted in Pointing,' says Angelia Squire, founder of Studio Squire. 'We wanted a bright white shade for the cabinetry to offset our bold marble counter, and Pointing was exactly that. It is a shade we return to time and time again when we want a really sharp, crisp, clean white.'

5. To increase the feeling of luxury

For the designer Danielle Edwards of Moths Interiors, Pointing is more than 'just' a neutral. It's an extra way to elevate an already elevated interior.

'There's an element of indulgence with Pointing that brings a sense of luxury and softness to a room,' Danielle says. 'In a living room, it pairs beautifully with velvets, throws, and candlelight, while also evoking the warmth of golden hour when sunlight streams in, creating a space that feels both warm and delicate.'

6. In light-filled spaces

With its red undertone, Pointing comes alive in light-filled spaces, taking on a bit of the heat from the sunshine that pours in. This is why Rachael Curzons, co-founder of the studio Bailey Curzons, used it lavishly in this dining room with its large windows.

'We used Pointing on all of the joists, the paneling, kitchen cabinets, window frames - effectively all the woodwork here,' she says. 'With rich, warm undertones reminiscent of thick cream, Farrow & Ball’s Pointing gently grounds light-filled spaces, preventing them from feeling clinical or hollow.'

7. To counteract bold patterns

The versatility of Pointing means it also takes on a glow in north-facing rooms, where its darker pigments begin to show themselves. Pheobe Hollond, director of Studio Hollond, loves to use it in this way, against bold prints on furniture and floor.

'Pointing is one of those whites that does a lot for a room, it's a hard-working white,' she says. 'Not only is it fresh, it is very warm. So when a space is heavily patterned and also north facing, it is the perfect choice of white to bring that uplifting feeling to a space.'

8. To give a sense of depth and age

Another Pointing fan is the designer Rachel Gowdridge, who chose Pointing for the entirety of a recent project.

'It was all Pointing on the walls throughout,' she says. 'We wanted to keep the backdrop neutral and let the art/lighting/accessories do the talking, but I felt the spaces needed a level of warmth.'

'I'd used Pointing before in my own house, and think it's a good tone for achieving that neutrality/warmth balance. It also works well in both north and south-facing rooms, which was perfect for this dual-aspect house. I love it because it makes the spaces feel lived-in and timeless without being stark or sterile, and it has a subtle, chalky quality that gives a sense of depth and age.'

9. For extra elegance

'I wanted a paint color that was versatile to fit any color scheme, classic and elegant for the space,' says designer Tasmin Love, who created this bedroom, above.

'Pointing was the perfect shade to cover all those bases and provide the warmth I wanted to portray on the interior. I also wanted something the client could easily buy again on the off chance that she needed to touch up a chip on the joinery.'

As the designers have explained, Farrow & Ball Pointing is a versatile shade that works in many ways. These buys, in Pointing-inspired colors, will work just as well to bring character and depth to your decor.

So when I learned that the Threshold designed w/Studio McGee collaboration was expanding with new launches today (June 16), I set myself an alarm and got scrolling. And honestly, this might just be my favorite Shea McGee collection yet.

Tapping into some of the biggest interior design trends for 2025, these new-in pieces might just be her most design-led yet. Think rich maroon reds, high-gloss lacquer finishes, tapestry prints, and vintage-inspired details. And all at a Target price point? I'll be racing you to the checkout.

I often have a hard time getting excited about fall or winter collections (don't even get me started on early Christmas) when we're in the middle of summer, but I'm making an exception for this early fall decor drop.

Filled with transitional pieces in rich, warming tones that will look at home year-round, this collection has been designed to offer an update to your home from summer 2025 all the way through to fall.

You might already have noticed that the lacquer trend is making waves this year, but it is typically an expensive designer favorite. Until now. Shea's latest collection features several glossy accent pieces that nod to this glamorous vintage trend, in a rich burgundy shade that helps to punctuate Shea's trademark neutrals.

And that's not where the vintage inspiration ends. You'll also find plenty of twisted and turned wooden designs in the collection that will help you create a luxe, layered vignette at home (without having to set foot in the thrift store).

The latest Threshold x Studio McGee collection at Target features several standout pieces that nod to the lacquered look. Each piece is finished in a deep oxblood hue that feels more like a refined statement than a trend-driven accent. The coffee table grounds a living room with its sculptural oval shape. The console table adds drama and polish to an entryway or behind a sofa. And the side table is a versatile punctuation mark in any room, offering just the right hit of shine.

Offering the perfect balance of nostalgic, timeless style with a contemporary edge, this new collection delivers the perfect excuse for a seasonal refresh that will see you well into fall and beyond.

Whether you're shopping to refresh your living room or looking to bring in some richer hues and textures for the months ahead, Shea's new designs bring a high-end feel home.

Here, I've pulled together my edit of the most stylish finds that I think are particularly worth your attention. But be quick, as always, the best pieces are already selling fast.

Every time Shea drops a new collection, there’s always one or two pieces I regret not adding to my cart fast enough – and I have a feeling this launch will be no different. I’ve already bookmarked my favorites, but the best finds never stick around for long, so if something’s caught your eye, I wouldn’t wait.

And if that wasn't enough, you'll be pleased to know that alongside these new pieces, Shea McGee's summer Target collection has had a bit of a restock with some of her prettiest pieces returning, including Shea McGee's skirted furniture at Target.

When you’re considering different wallpaper ideas for a particular space, the most key decision is that you want something timeless, something you won't tire of in the years to come.

Here, we ask top interior designers which wallpaper prints they never tire of. What are the patterns that never fail to deliver, and how do they, among the vast array of choice, pick a design that will outlast wallpaper trends and avoid the dreaded pattern fatigue?

Wallpaper decision fatigue can be as frustrating as it is wearing. It's further pressure to consider if your favorite wallpaper will feel in years to come, after having your walls expensively repapered, what if you tire of the pattern you once adored?

'Wallpaper designs can inject color, pattern, and interest into a scheme. But you do need to choose carefully, as you don't want to tire whatever is adorning your walls!' says interior designer Fiona Duke

'Timeless designs that mirror your style are likely to work better than following the latest interior design trends. Think about what you will be using the space for and what scale of design will work best. If you are thinking of making more of a statement and want to be a bit more daring, being mindful of the space's function will help to prevent any wallpaper pattern fatigue.'

So here are three wallpaper styles top interior designers say will defy trends:

1. Ditsy florals

‘It’s so hard to pick my favorite wallpaper ever, but I always gravitate towards ditsy small-scale prints,’ explains interior designer Sean Symington.

‘There is something about them that adds a subtle touch of depth to any space. Currently, I’m obsessed with the Poppy Sprig wallpaper from GP&J Baker. So much so, we wrapped my entire studio office space in this! It has such a lovely warmth and texture, and three different colors incorporated, which makes it so much easier to dot those colors around the space in different ways, making for a holistic scheme.’

‘Wallpaper can be such a fun incorporation into any room, so my top tip, first and foremost, is to go bold and have fun with it!' Sean advises

'Getting the scale of the wallpaper print is the next most important thing; if a scale is not right for the space, it may have the opposite effect on how you want to accentuate the room. Then, pick a design that has color dimension to it, that’s really how to make something timeless and not tire of it.'

'This way, the wallpaper becomes more of a backdrop, quietly tying the room together rather than dominating and being the main focal point, allowing your interior choices to evolve around it and shift the mood of the space over time.’

2. Small scale geometric prints

Kentucky-based interior designer Jen Bienvenu also thinks you can't go wrong with small-scale prints, but her preference is more abstract.

'Veere Grenney’s Folly wallpaper for Schumacher is right up there with my favorite wallpapers,' says Jen. 'Chintz and floral patterns follow a cyclical cycle of falling in and out of fashion, but Grenney’s Folly pattern has real staying power.'

'Reminiscent of coral, it’s one of my favorites because of its versatility. It feels at home in both large and small application settings. It can read geometric or floral based on its movement. And depending on the colorway, it can read coastal or find itself at home applied to the walls of a cabin in the woods.'

'When I study this paper, I’m unsure of what organic shapes I’m staring at. Is it more sea-like or twig-like? Either way, it has that mysterious quality that draws us into our appreciation for the world.'

3. Classic stripes

'I never tire of decorating with stripes,' says Fiona Duke. 'And the Estelle wallpaper by Sandberg wallpaper brings vibrancy and happiness in abundance. The striking design is bold and brave, yet also able to blend into the backdrop of a room design. It's very adaptable and feels super classic too.'

‘If you are going to opt for striped wallpaper, I prefer wrapping it around a whole room. It shows you've committed to the design and are being purposeful with the placement,' she adds.

'If it's for a bedroom, then you need to be mindful of the overall impression this will give. Opt for small-scale designs and softer color tones, as you don't want it to feel too overpowering. However, if you're installing in a space such as a powder room, then fewer rules apply and you can afford to go big and bold. Make a statement. Get people talking. Create a buzz around this room!'

If you're on the hunt for the best wallpaper for your space, these designers have plenty of inspiration to offer. It's worth keeping your finger on the pulse with current trends, but on the whole, trends come and go, so take inspiration from these experts' advice and put your personal preference first, choosing prints you know you will never tire of.

You can always rely on decorating with vintage to give your home a dose of eclectic charm. While vintage and antique stores offer a host of pieces, the beauty of thrift stores is the sheer array of pieces they offer for a lesser price. From decorative mirrors to collectible ceramics, amongst the many rows of unassuming decor, you'll find one-of-a-kind objects that can entirely transform the home for not very much money.

I asked designers which pieces to look out for, what items are guaranteed to make a home appear more curated and expensive, and they came back with these eight essentials.

1. Tableware and glassware

It's not hard to find tableware at a thrift store, and it's worth knowing that vintage tableware is often made by established makers, making it a timeless investment. It can make all the difference to a table arrangement or kitchen shelves, too, and bring a sense of sophistication and grandeur.

Sharing his tips on thrifting vintage glassware, Jacu Strauss, design, and creative director of Lore Group, says, 'My favorite items at thrift stores are real crystal glassware and silverware (cutlery in particular). I hardly ever buy new crystal for myself, and I buy used silver or silver-plated cutlery. It looks and feels so much nicer and just needs a little polish twice a year.'

If you've spotted a set in need of some care, swot up on how to polish flatware to give it a new lease of life. Similarly, you can remove cloudiness from drinking glasses, so always consider a set of tumblers or wine glasses at the thrift, even if they appear a little unloved.

2. Artwork

Thrift stores often stock a selection of art, be it hand-drawn prints, scenic landscapes, or vintage posters, so no matter your interior design style, there's likely to be something there for you. Thrifted artwork usually doesn't cost very much, and yet can really make a room look more expensive.

Thrifting is all about treasure-hunting,' says Sophie Salata, head of brand at Vinterior. 'It’s about unearthing the unexpected, the pieces that carry history, hold a story, and quietly elevate a space. Done right, thrifting is less about cost and more about character. So what’s worth checking out? Original art in vintage frames – moody landscapes, expressive portraits, or still lifes. The trick? Go for what grabs you and always think about the size and scale.'

Thrifting expert Rachel Leonard Kennedy has long been sourcing art for her home. She explains, 'When people walk into my home, the first thing they ask about is all the elegant painted portraits of (what they assume) are my relatives, on my walls! It’s the most fun conversation starter to tell them that my gallery wall of paintings is a total strangers I’ve rescued from thrift stores! If you can find original paintings and put them in similar frames, you can create a gallery wall that looks like it belongs in a museum. I’ve found paintings at thrift stores for as little as $2, and the most expensive one I’ve ever purchased was $120.'

3. Stoneware

Thrift stores are filled with pottery, from jugs to vases, you're pretty much guaranteed to find some kind of hand-thrown piece that oozes rustic charm. Decorating with vintage ceramics is a surprisingly chic way to design your home, too, whether you're creating a display of stoneware on a shelf or simply positioning a vintage vase at the center of a table.

Rachel says she always looks out for one specific pottery style at the thrift store. 'Stone and travertine vases, trays, and trinket bowls are very in vogue right now, and lend an expensive element to coffee tables, bedside tables, dining tables, or counter tops. Snag a natural stone bowl and pile with some lemons or clementines for an instant centerpiece that’s both budget-friendly and decor on-trend. Anything made with natural stone is typically expensive retail, and it’s a very popular material for designer decor right now.'

She adds, 'The best part is that this design trend has actually been around for decades, which means you can easily find stone or travertine pieces from the 80s and 90s that look like something you’d see in a modern decor boutique now. There are so many uses for an attractive stone bowl. I found a scalloped travertine bowl at a thrift store locally where I live for $7, and I keep it on my entryway table to dump my purse contents in when I get home. That way, when I leave the house again, I simply put the items from the bowl into the latest purse I’m using, and I’m out the door in seconds.'

4. Picture frames

Of course, decorating with vintage art is a classic way to make your home feel characterful and eclectic, but don't underestimate the power of vintage picture frames, as it's these often overlooked accessories that can elevate an image and make it appear both older and more expensive.

Thrift stores have an array of vintage art, so fear not if a painting doesn't speak to you, as the frame just might. An ornate gold frame or an intricately painted style can make your art feel much more interesting and eclectic, transforming an already pretty picture into a true work of art.

5. Trinket dishes

Trays and dishes are thrift store items that can transform a living room, so keep your eyes peeled next time you're shopping. These small but mighty accessories can uplift an empty surface and elevate even the simplest of arrangements.

For a grand look that feels timeless and sophisticated, Annie Harrison from Fare Inc. says to opt for, 'Silver trinket dishes can be used for dropping keys or styling on top of coffee table books for a layered, storied look.' Look out for silverware with a hallmark, as this is a sign the piece is made from authentic silver and will last for years to come.

Alternatively, for a less traditional look, a rustic rattan tray will give a coffee table an eclectic, curated feel that follows current trends while still feeling classically chic and elegant. Simply fill it with magazines and a bud vase, and you've got a simple yet expensive-looking arrangement.

6. Ceramics and china

You're guaranteed to find a shelf's worth of china at the thrift store. While some of it may edge a little towards the Grandmillennial decor aesthetic, it's not hard to find china that feels classic and timeless, designed by long-established makers.

There's a long list of dishware brands to shop second-hand, from Spode to English Creamware. It's useful to keep in mind iconic names when scouting for a set of cups, saucers, or dishes, as many of them can make a room feel more expensive, whether displayed as a collection in a dresser or used to set the table with when guests are over.

Interior designer Shani Core has long been thrifting gems to elevate her own home as well as her clients'. She says, 'My favorite collections to thrift include antique Majolica, Flow Blue, and any pretty, decorative antique porcelains with vibrant colors. These can be hung in a grouping on a wall, displayed on a console table, in a China cabinet, or in a pantry.'

7. Wooden furniture

Sourcing antique furniture at the thrift store may seem like a long shot, but you'd be surprised at the number of gifted pieces, particularly at the bigger branches. Quality pieces are often donated rather than thrown out, so don't rule out a trip to the thrift store when shopping for a vintage armchair, coffee table, or console.

Wooden furniture makes a scheme feel grander, older, and far more elegant and expensive compared to pieces made from synthetic materials, not to mention it's much more likely to last longer.

Shani says that the best furniture to buy at thrift stores will always be made from wood. She says, 'I’m always on the lookout for antique wood chairs, especially if they have intricate hand-carved wood details and unusual turned legs! I almost always reupholster them in something pretty with a contrast welt to update and make the cushions more comfortable. Pairs are great, but sometimes an odd random chair breaks up the symmetry in a room and makes it much more interesting!'

8. Mirrors

Mirrors can retail for high sums, particularly dramatic floor-length styles or gilded varieties. Not only is thrifting a mirror far more cost-effective, but you can often find antique and vintage styles that feel more interesting and decadent than some newer pieces.

Look out for mirrors with impressive frames or uniquely-shaped styles that would look stylish among other shapes, as these pieces will make your home feel not only eclectic, but well-considered and expensive.

Don't be put off by aged pieces either, in fact, interior designer Rebecca Hughes says you should embrace them. 'A large, decorative mirror can open up a room while adding a sense of history. I’m especially drawn to the unique patina and gentle foxing that naturally develops in old glass – it adds such charm.'

Annie Harrison from Fare Inc. also suggests always looking out for, 'Bronze patina framed mirrors or mirrors that are heavily foxed: more elegant and timeless than hand-painted metal finishes and factory applied antique finishes, so they look much more refined and authentic.'

So you don't have to spend a lot to make your home look more expensive, there are plenty of gems to be found at the thrift store that will elevate your home and give it depth and a collected feel that always gives a more sophisticated feel.

Over the years, we've seen many different bath ideas rise to the top of trends, but freestanding designs have remained a favorite and timeless choice. But is introducing one to your bedroom ideas a step too far?

We've asked interior designers for their expert opinions on the rising trend for bathtubs in bedrooms to find out if this is the new way to create a luxurious design or an impractical, logistical nightmare.

Should you put a bathtub in your bedroom?

When you're remodeling your home, it's easy to get carried away with adding all of your dream features, especially when it comes to the main bedroom. Perhaps a bath is part of your evening ritual, so you want to give it a more prominent spot, or maybe a bath won't fit in your ensuite, so it's the best alternative. But do designers recommend it?

'If space allows, I always encourage our clients to consider including a bath in the bedroom. There is something so serene about the idea. It brings a sense of sanctuary and calm, much like a beautifully designed hotel suite,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.

'It feels like the ultimate luxury, especially when positioned near a window with countryside views. If privacy is needed, a simple sheer curtain works beautifully. Café-style curtains are a favourite of mine as they add softness without blocking too much natural light,' she adds.

And while it feels like a new way to make a bedroom more luxurious, this trend for bedroom baths isn't quite as new as you might think. 'It can be traced back to the Middle Ages when many of the rich lords would have a bath in their bedroom,' says Keeley Sutcliffe, design manager at BC Designs.

'Fast forward to the 1990s, and the trend was revived by boutique hotels placing free-standing roll-top baths at the end of huge beds. They are at last becoming a desirable feature; separate bathrooms are out, hello open plan bathing,' she adds.

There's a ritualistic element that makes a bathtub in a bedroom feel so luxurious. There's a theme of relaxation and rewinding, a focus on self-care, which is why, where architecture allows, designers love this feature.

'There is a softness in blurring the boundaries between bathing and sleeping. When the layout allows for it, a bathtub in the bedroom invites a different kind of rhythm. One that privileges pause over productivity,' says Britt Zunino, of Studio DB.

'In our upstate home, the bathtub becomes both a sculptural focal point and a ritual object, placed intentionally in front of expansive glass to bring the outdoors into the most intimate parts of the day. It creates a direct line between rest and restoration. The kind of quiet luxury that feels earned, not ornamental.'

But the other reason a bathtub in a bedroom works so well is that it's always a cozier room. It's warmer, softer, and always feels more relaxing than a bathroom that's filled with harder, colder materials.

'Bedrooms are often more layered and comforting than bathrooms, which is why I think there has been a rise in people choosing to include a bath in the bedroom. It turns the space into something more like a grand suite rather than just a place to sleep,' says Lauren, who has designed several bedrooms with freestanding tubs.

What functional elements do people need to consider?

While your thoughts might immediately go to the luxury side of a bedroom bathtub, there are a lot of functional considerations to think about. For example, making sure the area is watertight to avoid any plumbing disasters.

'Functionality is just as important as how a space looks. We often create a dedicated zone for the bath within the room, perhaps with a slight change in floor level or flooring material. In one project, we used wooden flooring beneath the bath, which was practical. The rest of the room had a different finish,' explains Lauren.

If you have your heart set on introducing a bath to your sleep space, it's important to get the planning right. From plumbing to materials, there's a lot to consider if you want this to be a usable feature.

'It starts with good planning,' says Britt, who also emphasizes the need for properly thought-out ventilation, light control, and privacy. 'Ensure there is adequate plumbing access and proper waterproofing, especially around the tub, [and] choose durable, natural materials like stone or sealed wood that can age beautifully.'

It's also really important to consider how and who will use the bathtub. 'When it comes to family living and splashing children, a separate bathtub in a family bathroom is most likely a must. Bedrooms tend to have electrical equipment, expensive items, and soft furnishings that don’t mix very well with bubbles or water,' adds Keeley.

How to style a bathtub in a bedroom

Designing and styling a bathtub in a bedroom is a bit different from that of a bathroom. A bedroom is a cozier, softer space, so the way you style your bath and bathing essentials needs to feel cohesive and at home in it.

'Styling should feel gentle and intentional. A stool beside the bath can be a practical and beautiful addition, ideal for shampoo bottles or folded towels. A bath tray is another useful detail, especially where built-in storage is limited. Texture is key here. Natural materials, layered fabrics, and soft lighting all help to make the room feel calm, warm, and luxurious,' says Lauren.

'Lighting is also worth thinking about. In a bedroom, lighting tends to be softer and more atmospheric than in a traditional bathroom, which helps to create that spa-like feeling,' she adds.

It's also a good idea to stay away from anything that feels to utilitarian – instead, introduce soft lines, cozy materials, and a scheme that feels cohesive with the other decor in your bedroom.

'Keep it quiet and elemental. In our space, we paired a soft, rounded tub with a sculptural marble table and a simple vessel of cut stems. A boucle chair adds warmth and texture, and a neutral palette of white, cream, and natural stone grounds the space without overwhelming it,' says Britt.

It's the pieces you add around the bath that are key to making it feel at home in your sleep space. You want to blur the lines between sleeping and bathing areas, so bring in decor and scents that do just that.

'Everything should feel collected, not decorated. A well-placed towel, a book, a bloom. Restraint is what makes the scene feel lived-in and considered. Include nearby surfaces such as a pedestal or low table for candles, books, or a towel. The key is to treat the bathtub as furniture, not as a fixture. It should feel integrated into the language of the room, not an afterthought,' Britt explains.

Essentially, you need to ensure that the space around your tub is functionally sound to hold up to water, but feel lived-in, cozy, and like it belongs in your bedroom. 'Think tactile materials like stone, plaster, linen, and wood. Let light be a through line, and curate objects with both utility and poetry,' she notes.

So, if you were wondering if you should put a bathtub in a bedroom, the answer is a resounding yes, as long as you have the space and ensure the area is perfectly prepped for it. Not only is it the best way to create a luxury bedroom, but it's also a luxury hotel interior design lesson we should all be taking home with us.

But interior designer Shea McGee has taken to Instagram to answer everyone's biggest design dilemmas, and she's started her new 'office hours' series off by answering the question we all want to know the answer to: how to decorate a home on a budget.

The secret? Knowing exactly which items should be considered investments for longevity, and which decor pieces can still look beautiful, even at a lower cost. 'I think if we're focusing on a living room and bedroom, I look at things in price tiers and where I'm going to invest,' says Shea in the video.

Here, we take a deeper dive into which pieces in your bedroom and living room Shea says you should invest in, and the less prominent features you can afford to save money on.

Where to invest

When you're thinking about the items in your home you want to invest in, look to the large, focus pieces. For Shea, it's the large furniture items you use every day and that sit at the heart of your design that you should prioritize.

'A sofa and your headboard are where I would invest. So make sure that your sofa is the highest quality you can get, and make sure your bed is a bed frame, not just a headboard that you lean against the wall – try to get the best you can,' says Shea.

And it makes sense – your sofa is the place of relaxation in your living room, and it's a piece that your eye will instantly be drawn to. Equally, your bed quite literally sits at the heart of your bedroom, and if you opt for a frame with a beautiful headboard, it can form the base of the whole room's design.

When you're investing in a furniture item – especially a sofa – try to opt for a style that feels timeless and transitional, so no matter how you choose to redecorate or how your interior design style changes over the years, your sofa will always fit and feel cohesive in your scheme.

Where to save

Good news – there are more areas than you might expect where Shea says it's easy to save money that don't necessarily look as though you've you've opted for a more affordable alternative.

And they focus on the more decorative pieces that you are more likely to want to swap out over time. 'Those accents around the room, like rugs – I think there are a lot of great, affordable rug options out there – as well as accent tables. Accent tables go in the mid-price range, the same with a coffee table,' she explains.

Rugs ground the room and add a lot to the overall look and feel of a room, but they are also part of the walkway and have large furniture items sat on them, so regardless of how much you spend, you will likely want to replace them more regularly than other pieces in your space.

Accent and coffee tables are still an area to save rather invest, but don't go for something too low budget, as the most affordable designs can look cheap. The price will depend on the size and materials, but try to choose designs made from solid wood over plywood or cork, as these won't age well and will end up costing you more in the long run.

You could also shop vintage or second-hand, as you are likely to find quality-made pieces for a fraction of the price you'd find for contemporary pieces. Look to your nearby thrift stores, or even visit your local antiques and vintage markets for one-of-a-kind designs.

Shea's advice is simple – invest in the larger furniture items you use every day, and save on the smaller decorative pieces you're likely to want to swap out over time. And if you're embarking on a larger project, we have plenty more tips on where to spend and save in a home remodel.

That's because bedding isn't immune to style trends, and in 2025, there are certain bedding colors that are out of style. It's not only about trivial trends, either. 'Color has a profound impact on mood and sleep quality, with certain hues promoting relaxation while others can feel either too stimulating or dull,' explains interior designer Nina Lichtenstein.

In a design world where wellness and comfort are now taking top priority, there's no room for lurid or lackluster colors that don't feel conducive to a serene bedroom idea. If you want your sleep sanctuary to look beautifully chic, here are six shades that are out for 2025.

1. Dark gray

There was a time when dark, charcoal gray bedding sets were all the rage. Synonymous with moody schemes and the 'millennial gray' craze, gray bedding now feels overdone. 'Once beloved for its minimalist appeal, monochrome gray bedding now feels one-note and emotionally flat,' explains designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'It lacks the personality and warmth people are seeking in their homes.'

As a bedroom color idea, most grays are far too dark and cold to be soothing or relaxing, but what should we be using instead? 'Replacing the dark shades are classic tones like whites, softer grays, and earthy neutrals,' says Jonathan Attwood, co-founder of bedding brand, scooms. 'Reflecting the light beautifully and adding an airy feel, these lighter shades make bedrooms feel fresher, more expansive, and set the mood for rest and relaxation effortlessly. They're also a versatile, neutral base to build your design scheme around, working with an array of colors and textures to allow you to update your decor seasonally.'

For something close to gray but with added warmth, Nina suggests layered mauves, dusty plums, or a soft check in lilac tones. 'These add subtle depth while still feeling serene and sophisticated,' she says.

2. Plain white

Generally, white bedding is an enduring choice that promises to stand the test of time. From a bedroom trends point of view, however, plain white bedsheets aren't in the running for the 'most stylish' award in 2025. 'Crisp white sheets have long been seen as timeless, but in 2025, they’re starting to look sterile, especially when paired with brighter or more expressive duvets,' Nina explains.

Instead, when choosing bedsheets, designers are embracing subtle splashes of color that bring a bit more character and personality to a bedroom. For calming tones that don't depart too far from white on the color scale, Nina recommends a soft melon, butter yellow, or pale mint. 'These colors feel fresh and unexpected, especially beneath a patterned cover, and hint at personality without overwhelming the space,' she says.

You could also limit yourself to just one white element of bedding, like your pillows or undersheet, for example. Or, for something a little different, consider a white quilt or duvet with a colored undersheet for a pop of color that offers a fresh and contemporary feel when the covers are pulled back.

3. Navy

Deep navy was once a popular bedding color, but this rich, inky shade is now waning as a bedroom color trend. 'A full navy bedding set used to be a symbol of smart, tailored style, but now it’s reading too heavy and traditional, particularly in smaller bedrooms,' Nina notes. If you want a cool tone that feels less heavy, she suggests cornflower blue, dusty teal, or periwinkle with warm-toned contrast pillows such as ochre or soft peach. 'The balance of cool and warm breathes new life into the palette,' she says.

Emily Attwood, scooms' other co-founder, has also noticed a clear shift away from this dark bedding tone in recent years. 'While deeper shades once offered a sense of drama and sophistication, they now tend to overpower the modern bedroom, which leans more towards creating a soft, serene, and versatile escape,' she explains. 'Designers and homeowners alike are preferring lighter and earthier schemes that create a calming atmosphere whilst being versatile enough to work with a wider range of smaller accessories, furniture, and textures.'

Lainey Hollis, SVP of Product Creation at Boll & Branch, says blues have lasting style in the bedroom, but recommends pulling inspiration from naturally occurring shades. 'Our new introduction of the color Hydrangea is inspired by coastal landscapes and the color of the sky and sea,' she says. 'This is a calming color that has limitless possibilities to be paired with white or other colors of the landscape, such as Sand.'

4. Cool pastels

I know what you're thinking − sky blue sounds suspiciously like a cool pastel, no? Well, yes, but it's a little more nuanced than that. When it comes to the bedding colors that are out of style in 2025, it's cool, unsaturated tones used entirely alone that designers are keen to avoid.

'Overly cool baby blues and saccharine pinks, for example, are shades that are losing ground because they feel more juvenile than intentional,' says Nina. Instead, 2025 is all about adding an injection of warmth: a peach pillow here and a mauve throw there.

If you're committing to a monochrome pastel theme, lean towards warmer tones like muted rose, clay-pink, or a peachy apricot to make a more stylish impact. 'These tones still offer softness but feel more grown-up and design-forward,' says Nina. (They're generally considered some of the best bedroom colors for sleep, too.)

One possible exception to the rule is green. Pastel iterations of this shade have enduring appeal in the bedroom thanks to their associations with nature. 'Drawing from soothing greens from the garden, we love the colors Meadow and Sageleaf to bring colors from the outdoors into your interiors,' says Lainey.

5. Beige everything

Want to make your bed like an interior designer? We shouldn't need to remind you, but too much beige risks looking bland. As Nina notes, 'neutral doesn’t have to mean boring, but full beige or taupe bedding can easily fall into that trap'.

In 2025, she says people are craving more depth and nuance in their bedding colors. Think layered neutrals with warm chocolates or sophisticated greens thrown into the mix. 'Layer neutrals with complexity,' Nina says, recommending a flax linen paired with olive green, warm ivory, or soft stone. 'Tonal variation is key.'

Lainey loves neutrals as a color family for their soothing properties, but also recommends contrasting them with another color. 'We love to pair warm and cool tones in muted, complex neutral colors,' she says, adding that variations in texture are important, too.

6. Matching, monochrome sets

Now we know it's not strictly a color, but it's an important lesson in bedding trends nonetheless – matching monochrome sets have fallen out of favor in 2025. 'Uniform pillowcases, shams, sheets, and duvets in a single color or print can come across as dated and overly "put together",' says Nina.

Instead, this year is all about curating an eclectic focal point where every element of your bedspread boasts a different, complementary tone. 'Mix unexpected textures and tones, such as a stripe with a solid, linen with velvet, or a small-scale floral with a neutral chambray,' Nina says. The goal is to create a bed that feels collected, not catalogued.'

There's no denying the fact that your bedding should be cozy and comfortable first and foremost, but it should also be visually impactful, too. Choosing the right bedding color isn't just about buying into trends, but it will ensure you have a stylishly chic boudoir conducive to the best night's sleep possible.

It's a collection that goes viral every year, and the best pieces sell out fast, so while June may feel a little premature to be planning your Halloween decorating ideas, it pays to be early to get your hands on the pieces you want.

There are some returning favorites in the Pottery Barn Halloween collection, and some spooky, stylish, adorable new additions too.

Shop the new Pottery Barn Halloween collection

Pottery Barn is really getting a head start this year, but we all know how popular these pieces are, so stocking up while things are in stock is no bad idea. Not sure we are quite ready to talk Christmas just yet, but Pottery Barn has also launched a sneak peek at its 2025 Christmas collection, too if you want some festive feels in June.

I recently asked designers what one thing they thought always made a room look more expensive, more elevated and put together, and the answer was unanimous – hardware. Door knobs, cabinet handles and draw pulls, the feedback was that this small feature can make or break a home.

Although unassuming, hardware is an impactful accessory that strays from just kitchen cabinet hardware ideas and can pack plenty of punch when done well. Whether you're starting with an entirely blank canvas and giving a newly built home some character or you want to make your period property feel more authentic, a simple chic brass doorknob, vintage drawer pulls, or an ornate cabinet handle can make a room feel bespoke, sophisticated, and eternally chic.

'Hardware can really make a space,' interior designer and co-founder of Pierce & Ward, Emily Ward tells me. 'We always use it to add character to shelves with beautiful brackets and charm to new kitchens and antique furniture.'

Updating the hardware on your thrifted second-hand finds is one of the easiest ways to give them new life. I recently sourced a beautiful solid-wood dresser, but the handles were wood too, and I wanted to create a bit of interest. I switched them for some classic fluted shell handles – it was a quick and affordable switch that made so much difference.

Handles can add character to the home and transform new furniture, too. Whether it's an IKEA closet that needs some character or a lackluster desk that needs a duo of handles for its drawers, brass and gold accents can give them patina and grandeur.

'Beautiful hardware can offer those small, surprising moments of delight,' says interior designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'Just as importantly, it can also support you in how you live. A handle that fits perfectly in your grip, or a lever that replaces a difficult-to-turn knob, can enhance your day-to-day experience, especially for those with specific physical needs. Good design meets you where you are, and hardware is often one of the most intimate expressions of that.'

Of course, hardware can often have the biggest impact in the kitchen. If you are looking to make your current kitchen look more expensive, switching your hardware is going to have the biggest effect on the smallest budget. It's also a practical way to add character and personality. It can be tricky to get decor into this hardworking space, which is why going decorative with your hardware can really add some much-needed interest.

Helen Parker, Creative Director of deVOL Kitchens agrees, explaining, 'I would always look at the knobs and handles in your kitchen to elevate the space. Really beautiful hardware makes an enormous difference to the finished look of a kitchen, quality is more expensive, but it also makes an average kitchen suddenly feel much more bespoke.'

To create a unique look to your kitchen cabinets, source vintage and antique varieties on sites like eBay and Etsy.

Viewed as small and discreet, doorknobs are often overlooked when it comes to home design, but in reality, they can create just as much impact as painting a door or restyling a shelf. Door handles are thoughtful details that suggest you've paid the utmost attention; it's these touches that will ensure your home feels collected and considered.

'It’s often said that hardware is the jewelry of the home, and for good reason,' says Nina. 'Just as a statement earring or heirloom ring can transform an outfit, a thoughtfully chosen door handle or drawer pull can define a space and bring soul to a room, quietly anchoring the aesthetic with surprising power.'

She adds, 'Far from being purely functional, hardware offers one of the most accessible ways to inject personality into a room. A brushed brass pull can soften a high-contrast kitchen; a hand-forged iron knob can lend gravitas to an otherwise understated hallway door. These small details, often touched more than any other surface, carry tactile significance. They invite interaction, making the experience of opening a cabinet or stepping into a room feel intentional.'

While you can opt for the same doorknob style and decorate your home with cohesive accents scattered throughout, you don't have to match your pieces. In fact, a handpainted knob may feel more suited for a bathroom or a laundry room entrance, whereas a grander brass hexagonal knob might work better for the entrance to a kitchen or living room. These subtle accents tell a story and entice you into a room, showcasing your style as a designer in an understated yet elegant way.

Bo Knoblauch, Vice President of Product Development at Rejuvenation says, 'Regardless of the style you’re drawn to, refreshing your home with custom cabinet hardware adds a subtle touch of sophistication that will transform any space. There’s a clear interest in hardware with intricate and subtle decorative touches – details that add character and texture without overwhelming a space. Reeded detailing, for example, adds dimension to your cabinetry. On the other hand, sleek silhouettes and clean lines bring a high-quality, contemporary look to your kitchen, bath, or laundry room.'

Whether you're adding some vintage kitchen hardware to your scheme or you're simply swapping out a plain doorknob for a more ornate style, these small but impactful changes can elevate your rooms and make your home look more expensive without having to spend $100s.

The beauty of decorating with antiques is the versatility they bring to a space. With so many styles to choose from, creating a one-of-a-kind home can be achieved with a keen eye and knowledge of the classic eras and makers. However, styling your antiques is just as important as sourcing them and can make all the difference when it comes to how they affect your overall scheme.

Whether it's poor lighting, overly modern furnishings, or simply too much styling, these are the seven things that make your antiques look cheap, suggested by expert collectors and designers.

1. Overly restoring or cleaning

Some may say there is vintage and antique decor to avoid, such as a worn-out piece of furniture unlikely to stand the test of time; however, there is another antique that should be avoided entirely – one that's been overly restored and made to look too new. A squeaky clean, tarnish-free, reinvented antique looks cheap and less like the real deal as its age has been disguised.

Designer advice is to steer clear of pieces that have been heavily 'updated' or 'upcycled'. Jacu Strauss, Design and Creative Director of Lore Group, says 'The main thing that makes an antique look cheap is trying to make it look like new. For example, when it is restored too much, or parts are restored unnecessarily. The beauty of antiques is the imperfections that come with age. For example, an over-polished or glossy wood surface or an overly restored gold frame on a painting. Loving antiques is loving the imperfections and the mystery of their past. The same applies to painting over wood antiques, like whitewashing. That is a sin.'

2. Mixing antiques with replicas

One of the most common mistakes when it comes to styling antique furniture or decor is putting them amongst replicas. While it might be tempting to create a collection of antiques for less, this actually makes the valuable pieces appear fake too. The result is a rather awkward display that feels tasteless.

Sophie Salata, Head of Brand at Vinterior, says 'Unfortunately, one of the quickest ways to diminish the impact of antiques is by mixing them with replicas. Imitation pieces can dilute the authenticity and craftsmanship that make antiques so special – it disrupts the narrative and flattens the sense of history they bring to a space. Instead, it’s far more effective to contrast antiques with pieces from entirely different eras. Pairing them with honest, contemporary design creates a sense of balance and intentionality. This contrast allows the antique to stand out as a point of interest rather than getting lost in a sea of imitation.'

Interior designer Shani Core agrees, saying, 'When creating a gallery wall or plate wall, make sure you choose items of a similar quality. Mixing fine antique Majolica or Flow Blue with a new plate will make the entire display look cheap. The same goes for a gallery wall, when mixing antique artworks with wood frames, please don’t add in giclee art or plastic frames, or the entire mix will suffer.'

3. Cool toned lighting

Lighting ideas can make a big difference to an antiques display. When you think about the walls of a gallery or museum, you almost always see a subtle wall sconce or picture light illuminating a painting or sculpture. It's useful to think of your antique styling in the same way; you want your pieces to shine in all their glory, so consider the right lighting style and a flattering bulb to allow your treasures to sing.

If the lighting is off, the pieces will appear cheap and one-dimensional rather than ornate and interesting. Allison Smith, founder of Antiques with Allison, says, 'Lighting can play a more important role than most people think. Cool-toned light bulbs can flatten antiques while a warm-toned bulb brings out their patina, wood grain, and beautiful gilt details.'

Opt for a soft, warm light bulb such as this one from Amazon to ensure your antiques are illuminated without feeling stark or clinical.

4. Poor quality furnishings

While pairing contemporary decor with antiques is a classic way of honoring the transitional design style, overly modern, cheaply made pieces can clash with antiques and detract from their quality. A low-quality rug or a fad-like piece of decor can make your antique appear affordable and far less of a rarity.

Birdie Fortescue is an antique expert and interior designer who has long incorporated preloved gems in her projects. She says, 'Antiques are a wonderful way to bring character and a touch of gravitas into your home. However, even the finest pieces can lose their charm when paired with synthetic fabrics, stark lighting, a poor floor covering, or overly modern colors.'

Birdie says the important thing is to opt for artisanal, well-made pieces to pair with them. 'I love to mix different periods and materials to add depth and texture to an interior. To enhance the presence of your antiques, opt for high-quality or handcrafted pieces in natural tones and textures that complement, rather than compete with them. It’s a fine balance, but when done well, an eclectic blend of old and new brings individuality, charm, and lasting value to an interior.'

The best neutral paints will allow your antiques to sing while still providing a room with warmth and color. Or, for a more heritage look, consider the best dark blue paints for a contrasting pairing that pops against an ornate antique.

5. Painting your antique furniture

Sometimes a lick of paint is just what a piece of antique furniture needs; however, if you've discovered a high-quality piece that shines perfectly well on its own, paint can actually decrease its value and make a once expensive antique appear cheap and mass-produced.

Painting wood furniture does not always make antiques look cheap, especially if the piece was originally painted and needs a refresh. If you do decide to update it, try to choose a paint color that's close to the intended shade rather than an overly bold paint that clashes with the style of furniture.

Shani says, 'For a long time, some people considered brown furniture to be out of style. In my humble opinion, fine brown wood antique furniture should never be painted, and especially in a bold color! Painting your grandmother’s fine antique mahogany table bright red makes the table look cheap, especially when there are lots of decorative hand-carved details. And the same goes for mirrors, chairs and the like!'

6. Overstyling

There is such a thing as overstyling. In fact, an excessively edited room can lack homeliness and comfort, qualities that are important in interior design. The same applies to antiques; a display of china or paintings that have been painstakingly put together is instantly evident and appears staged rather than well-styled.

The key to decorating with art is creating an arrangement that feels effortless while still allowing each antique painting and print to shine individually. A wall covered in frames is often impactful and the perfect way to showcase your tastes, but if you've overly considered the painting styles, eras, and sizes (for example, grouping them together according to their type), it can detract from the beauty of the antiques individually.

Susannah Cameron, Director of vintage decor company Chez Pluie Provence, says, 'Homes are not showrooms. Rooms should feel as if they’ve been used, not set. If everything is arranged too precisely, the space loses air and feels contrived. It’s the small irregularities that make a room believable.'

7. Too much contrast

Mixing decades in interior design is all the rage; it showcases your ability to fuse contrasting styles alongside your tastes as a collector, a principle of the eclectic interior trend. However, Susannah says, '"High-low” may work for an outfit, but it is hard to master with antiques.'

Pieces that feel very contemporary won't sit right beside an aged relic. Susannah explains, 'Raw wood. Hand-thrown pottery. Carved stone. Wrought iron with rust at the edges. These quality materials know how to sit beside antiques. They have weight, and they carry memory. Avoid anything that feels too new, too shiny, too fast. A plastic chair beside a 19th-century table won’t feel complementary – it will feel out of place.'

She adds, 'Antiques and modern pieces live well together when they share a certain humility. It’s not about contrast, but about conversation. A weathered guéridon beside a clean-lined sofa. An 18th-century terracotta urn in a rambling garden bed. Let shape and texture guide you.'

Antiques shouldn't feel obligatory,' says Susannah. 'Choose them because you love them and for how they make the room feel. A walnut armoire can settle a hallway. A painted commode might catch the morning light just so. It’s not about matching a style – it’s about atmosphere.'

The space was the perfect spot to showcase the new collection, much like the Palm Heights hotel, there was a sun-drenched, retro, 1970s feel. I had escaped to another, far more relaxed world.

And that's what this new collaboration is about, bringing a touch of a luxury vacation into your home. 'This collection is about capturing that magical feeling of being on holiday in your home,' explains Palm Heights' creative director Gabriella Khalil. 'That could be a relaxing, beautiful moment in your bathroom feeling fantastic in your robe, or having guests come over and creating memories around a table with special glassware. While Palm Heights is a highly visual and chic space, there is also a real playfulness about it at the same time and the mix of both of these worlds would be my ideal for people to take away from the collection.'

The collection is made up of 23 pieces, there's glassware, home accessories, robes, towels, fragrances, and more, all challenging that 1970 Palm Heights style. The key colors are yellow and brown, a combination that is a big color trend for this summer and mirrors the palette of the hotel – the yellow is the exact shade used on the resort's sun umbrellas.

'There is something magical about the lifestyle of personal design hotels and the creative personalities behind these projects,' says Evelina Kravaev-Söderberg, Head of Design & Creative at H&M HOME.

'Gabriella’s vision for Palm Heights is captivating, blending bold aesthetics with a vibrant, retro charm that feels fresh and contemporary. This partnership and the collection marries the hotel’s energy, style, and sense of escapism with our approach to creating affordable, modern design – inspiring interior enthusiasts all over the world to create personal and stylish spaces.'

Shop the collection

Thrift stores are, of course, so much cheaper than antique stores, and while there's often a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to furniture, if you know what to look out for, you could find some really unique vintage pieces. So I spoke with the experts to find out what furniture they recommend looking out for at the thrift store.

1. Peacock chairs

Rattan furniture is not only featured amongst this year's vintage furniture trends, it's been popular for decades, meaning you can find all sorts of unique styles at the thrift store. However, there's one style that's a classic vintage staple – the peacock chair, dubbed for its dramatic arched back and bamboo detail.

Amber Michelle, founder of The Magic Of Round Top, is a long-time vintage collector and loves a peacock chair as it's an example of furniture one should always thrift. She says, 'I love finding the beautiful peacock chairs from the '70s. Look for artisan furniture that is beautifully handcrafted from amazing woods that can serve as heirloom pieces for your family.'

'Buying secondhand and thrift is a mission near and dear to my heart, as it not only allows you to be very creative in home decorating and creating designs the whole family can create together, but it is also extremely good for our planet,' Amber adds. 'Choosing thrift over buying new really says a lot about what matters to you. Thrifting for furniture is heart and soul-based shopping.'

2. Stools

Every room needs a stool; it's a humble yet mighty piece of furniture that can fill dead space and provide extra seating, or surface space, all without dominating. Whether you're adding one to your pantry or placing one beside your couch, stools come in many shapes and sizes, making them an easy piece to bring into your scheme, regardless of your interior design style. They are also a great piece to thrift.

Mike Fretto, CEO of furniture company Neighbor, often hunts for stools at the thrift store due to their affordable prices and one-of-a-kind styles. He says, 'I think that stools are definitely a great type of furniture to look out for in thrift stores. New stools are often pretty overpriced for how small and basic they are design-wise in all actuality. Buying them second-hand can be a great way to ensure you aren’t overpaying.'

'Stools are also often some of the easiest types of furniture to customize. Uneven legs are pretty easy to fix, and they can be stained or painted without needing a whole lot of expertise.'

3. Vanities and desks

While it can be hard to hunt for specific pieces at the thrift store, as furniture can vary in age and style, a classic piece to always keep in mind is a desk or vanity. An antique desk can be just what a home office needs, giving it a sense of patina and character. Alternatively, a vintage desk can double up as a vanity and sit in the corner of your bedroom.

Jane Shapiro, founder of Mothership Thrift and Vintage, says, 'Vanities and desks are my favorite pieces of furniture to thrift. The quality of materials and details in the design is hard to match with modern furniture. For example, an Art Deco vanity will be made out of solid wood, have a thick glass mirror, sturdy drawer pulls, and often handy storage compartments.'

Caring for antique furniture is surprisingly easy, says Jane, 'There are so many easy-to-use and effective products on the market to help maintain and restore old wood and metal, so you can keep adding new life into antique vanities and desks.' We would always recommend adding touch up markers to your DIY kit, they hide scratches and discoloration in seconds.

4. Bamboo furniture

A big furniture trend for 2025, bamboo is a material popular for its relaxed, bohemian feel and its reliable sturdiness. A classic style used in mid-century design right up to the present day, bamboo furniture often lies in thrift stores.

Whether you're hunting for the perfect seating for your front porch idea or want a comfy chair for your living room, bamboo furniture feels both relaxed and traditional. Emma Carole Paradis, co-founder of interior design studio Impeccable Nest, says 'I love to thrift bamboo furniture (think British Colonial). We love to find beautiful bamboo armoires and corner étagères in beautiful dark woods. These immediately give an interior a warm hug and an elegant feel once they're placed. We never pass up some fun barware for our clients and our own home. The cheekier the better!'

5. Mid-century accent chairs

Mid-century furniture often retails for high prices and has been collectible over recent years due to its contemporary, cool connotations. So if you spot something you love from this era in a thrift store, snap it up as it's likely you'll get the best price in thrift stores over vintage shops.

Hannah Oravec, from Lawless Design studio, says she always goes thrifting with certain European furniture styles in mind. 'You can never go wrong with mid-century modern or rustic European styles. I gravitate towards Danish modern, French, and Belgian farmhouse styles, mixed with English cottage. These seamlessly blend new and old in a manner that is both collected and eclectic in feeling.'

While you're less likely to find high-brow makers than in a dedicated vintage store, Hannah says she always keeps in mind the names of her favorite makers in case she stumbles across a hidden gem. 'Keep an eye out for designers like Fritz Hanson, Pierre Jeanneret, and Henning Kjaernulf. They designed beautiful, classic pieces that are both chic and timeless.'

6. Wooden dining tables

Whether you're looking for the perfect long table for a traditional dining room or a small round style for a breakfast nook, thrift stores often stock an array of donated furniture that can make creating your dream space far less expensive but just as lasting.

Rachel Leonard Kennedy often thrifts furniture. She says, 'Real wood will always be the best furniture to buy at thrift stores as these pieces are going to last longer than the modern press-board stuff that’s for sale. A real-wood piece is going to carry a hefty price tag at a modern furniture store, so when I come across something made with natural wood, I always consider taking it home. My dining room table is a round, mahogany wood piece I scored for $25 from a thrift store in Germany. I have an end table in my living room that I found at a thrift store in Huntsville, Alabama, from the late 1800s for $80, made entirely of a beautiful dark walnut.'

A top tip from Rachel for cleaning wood furniture is, 'Buy some Murphy Oil Soap cleaning spray and wipe your wood pieces down every couple of months to keep them supple, plus you’ll enjoy the added perk of having a delicious orange wood scent wafting through your home like a candle.'

You never know what you'll find at the thrift store, whether it's a bamboo chair or a handmade stool; endless treasures are waiting to be rehomed. If you can't make it to the thrift, remember you can buy vintage furniture online and find all your favorite styles with ease.

As designer Rachel Blindauer says, 'Color in your tile ideas isn’t just aesthetic – it’s architectural memory. It sets tone, scale, and mood. Whether handmade or precision-cut, tile should serve the space it lives in – and the life that unfolds there.'

Here, interior designers reveal the five tile colors are officially out in 2025 and are best avoided if you are remodeling your bathroom this year and want to create a timeless, yet on-trend space.

1. Cool gray

We're all aware gray is no longer the ever-popular color it once was, espeically in it's cooler forms, so it's no surprise it's a tile color that's going out of style for 2025. Instead, we are turning our attention towards warmer, more welcoming tones.

Elana Mendelson, principal luxury interior designer at Elana Designs, explains, 'As we move through 2025, tile trends are shifting toward warmer, more organic tones, and several once-popular hues are falling out of favor. Cool gray tiles, a go-to for years, now feel sterile and overdone, with warmer neutrals like greige or taupe emerging as softer, more inviting alternatives.'

Kym Terranova of Leigh Vaeth Tile + Stone echoes this, saying, 'Our clients and their designers have been choosing warmer tones instead, for a cozier feel. Natural terracotta or unglazed clay tile are great alternatives if you are looking for neutrals.'

2. Glossy white

The sleek shine of glossy white tiles is also on this year's to-go list. Once a loved bathroom tile trend for its clean appearance and how it can expand the size of a room, this year this once-loved tile color falls into the same category as cool gray, coming off more sterile and uninviting than contemporary-chic.

'A shade that I have noticed really loose momentum is the bright, glossy white ceramic field tile,' says Jo Rich, designer at Raydoor Sliding Walls & Doors. 'You used to see this tile everywhere in kitchens and bathrooms a decade or more ago, but it's often small scale and high shine now reads as overly sterile.'

Swapping these tiles out for bathroom tiles with a little more life, such as a soft biege can add character to a space without feeling drab. 'A better alternative that I have seen an increased interest in is a large format matte porcelain tile in a soft dove gray,' suggests Jo. The matte finish is less obtrusive: there's no sheen or glare that can risk the room looking clinical.

3. White marble

Traditional white marble has been adored for seemingly forever, but some designers have warned it's becoming an overused, dated tile trend. It's taking its turn on the back burner in 2025 to give others stones the spotlight.

'White marble tiles are taking a backseat as homeowners lean toward warmer stones like travertine or limestone, which offer similar elegance with more texture and character,' says Elana. It isn't so much the marble itself that isn't hitting design trends, but rather this particular type lands flat and too blank.

There are countless other colors of marble out there, such as seaspray greens and tones with more amiability like soft yellows, browns, and blues that will create an incredibly inviting environment in your home.

4. Navy

'Navy had a great run, being loved by designers for their timelessness,' says Rachel Blindauer. 'From Shaker cabinets to ceramic backsplashes, it grounded modern farmhouse and coastal spaces alike. But it’s a color that commands the stage – and when used too rigidly in tile, it can limit a room’s longevity. It doesn’t always play well with changing trends in metal finishes or evolving wood tones.'

If you feel passionately about decorating with blue in your home, Rachel suggests switching navy tiles to something that works more timelessly, such as blue-greens, French gray-blues, or even moody indigos with earthy undertones.

5. Brown-beige

Designers predict seeing a notable decline in brown-beige tiles around people's homes in 2025. Once seen as earthy and interchangeable with all kinds of decor, they now fall under the umbrella of being both a bit too drab and a little too dark.

'Brown-beige tiles, reminiscent of the late ’90s and early 2000s, and they are definitely being replaced by lighter taupes that feel fresher and more contemporary,' says Elana.

A simple shift in hue here can instantly breathe more life into your home, which, when accompanied by a houseplant here or there, will truly transform a once "okay" space into a thoughtfully tiled oasis.

If you're looking to spruce up your home this year, we recommend looking at the biggest color trends of 2025 first, where 10 color designers share their thoughts, tips and tricks on curating the most beautiful spaces.

Joanna Gaines has proven just how stylish mudroom ideas can be in the latest installment of her 'Mini Reni' series. Moody colors, classic patterns, and brass details have given this underused corner a new lease of life.

It's convinced me that the mudroom is the perfect place to introduce bold design features – and I've found almost everything she used, so you can easily recreate the look.

I often gravitate towards decorating with neutrals in more functional spaces like utility rooms and mudrooms. They just instantly feel clean and spacious – something we all want from our functional zones.

However, Joanna Gaines' latest project has convinced me it's time to put down the white paint and embrace a bolder scheme. The mudroom transformation strongly supports decorating with a moody color palette to create the most striking design.

'This room was basically a shell, and the client really wanted it to feel charming; she wanted it to feel moody and super functional. We added these cabinets just because it's a mudroom, it needs lots of storage,' Joanna explains in Magnolia's Instagram video.

To nail the moody look her client desired, she went bold with a deep blue hue on the walls, woodwork, and paneling. Painted in Coffee Nook from Magnolia Home, described as 'a dark smoky gray with blue undertones,' it's a moody hue that feels rich and warming, exactly what you want from the first room you step into from outside.

'We added this arched cased opening here,' she notes, referencing the opening between the mudroom and the adjoining art room that has been painted the same dark color. 'She really liked this idea of charming anywhere we could apply an arch or a scalloped – it's something we were really mindful of.'

There is a clear color story throughout the mudroom that blends moody hues with a timeless aesthetic. And the wallpaper, Floral Treasures Wallpaper in Beach Glass from Papier, a warm neutral covering with a traditional floral repeat, contrasts beautifully with the dark paint and really sets the palette for the scheme.

'All of the colors we implemented in this space tie back to this cute little wallpaper we found. You've got the blush, and then you've got that hint of darker terracotta in the middle that you'll see on these floors.'

A feature that really catches your eye is the mudroom tiles introduced throughout the space. Checkerboard floors are a classic design that's becoming increasingly popular again, and they add so much interest to this mudroom. The two tile colors reference that statement wallpaper, creating a sense of cohesion.

'And then to add a little more of that fabric softness, we have this classic stripe fabric for this bench moment,' she adds, referencing the custom-made and upholstered seat cushion in Perennials Fabrics' Ticking Stripe Fabric in Dove, which adds another layer of classic style to the design.

The adjoining art room has been color drenched in the same dark blue color, creating a bold and all-encompassing space. While the mudroom area feels more pared-back with lots of hidden storage and clean lines, the art area is all open shelving with supplies on full display.

'This is the space where we were designing for her to create in. For artists, I know it's nice to be able to see all of your materials and everything you want to work with on your shelves. But there's also quite a lot you want to hide! It was key to make sure there was some order to creating, but also some inspiration right in front of her,' Joanna explains.

The space is busy, but it's also perfectly curated. With most of the owner's art supplies displayed on the open shelving, on the opposite wall, the Quinn Wooden Dish Cabinet from Magnolia has been introduced in an unexpected way.

'We had this piece designed for the store, originally inspired for a kitchen where you'd have your plates, any glassware, and spices, but knowing that we had this bigger wall here, I felt it would be great for her art, papers, and supplies. This is one of those products that you can use in different ways, and I just love the way that it looks on this wall.'

But what ties the whole space together are the decorative accents. Joanna has kept the decor simple to avoid filling the room with visual clutter. The pedestal table with a twisted leg detail adds a warmer, natural texture and gives the potted plant height and a sense of permanence.

On the wall, a round mirror bounces light around the room and is perfectly placed for a quick appearance check as the homeowner leaves and enters. And directly opposite, perched on the ledge of the wall paneling, are two gold vases filled with blooms and a large, simplistic art print.

While the decor has been scaled back, they offer a taste of the busier displays in the adjoining art room and give a subtle hint at the style and personality of the rest of the home. Even the lighting, two Art Deco-inspired ceiling lights, and a more vintage feel that elevates the space.

And for me, it's a lesson in getting a mudroom design right. It's equal parts moody and charming, and it remains bold and stylish without compromising on function. It's a space I want to recreate in my own home, ASAP!