When it comes to decorating dining rooms, I always recommend putting your personality into it, as this is a great way to show dinner guests what you're all about.

One celeb who has done this is Jennifer Garner, who showcased hers on a tour with Architectural Digest. I've asked designers why features such as her feature wall, rustic table, and chic lighting work so well and how you can get the look in your own space.

If you're looking for dining room ideas that are warm and inviting, the 30 Going On 30 star's space has so many beautiful aspects worth noting.

Jennifer Garner’s dining room is a perfect example of harmonious, inviting home decor, thanks to its whimsical yet warm scheme.

“Personally, I love the gallery wall featuring Lara Porzak's butterfly artworks, which artwork provides a personalized focal point and visual interest,” says Ryan Fitzgerald, design expert and owner of Raleigh Realty.

He continues, “The antique farmhouse table also catches my eye, as it exudes charm and durability — perfect for withstanding daily use without losing aesthetic appeal.”

Ryan recommends heading down to secondhand furniture stores or perusing antique shops for similar vintage, high-quality tables to anchor your own dining space.

“I also like the task lighting focused on the table which lets diners see easily, while ambient light from pendants and sconces illuminates the space,” adds Aaron Alway, interior designer at Black Label Design Group.

To achieve a cozy style similar to Jennifer’s, he recommends anchoring the space with a dining set, and then mixing upholstered seating for contrast and comfort. “The details come together to craft a space for gathering,” he adds.

Don’t be afraid to step outside the box and bring your personality in, as adding your own touches will enhance the space and is a big interior design trend for this year. “I love how in Jennifer’s dining room nothing feels overly matchy-matchy — there's a variety of color and different styles of art, but it all feels very cohesive and intentional,” agrees Kathy Kuo, interior designer and founder of Kathy Kuo Home.

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Overall, Jennifer Garner’s dining room pairs personal touches with durable, neutral-toned elements for a timeless, inviting look.

“From displaying cherished art to choosing sturdy antiques in soft hues, her space provides fantastic inspiration for homeowners,” Ryan finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scouting out more of the actor’s space? We also love Jennifer Garner’s bathroom and her KitchenAid mixer.

Wallpaper is one of the quickest ways to transform a room. Whether you're looking to jazz up a spare room like Vanessa or transform a key space like a living room, it always brings the drama.

I spotted a nature-inspired wallpaper print in Vanessa Hudgens' home on her TikTok, which didn't surprise me as natural prints and colors have been huge this year. I've asked interior designers why it works so well and even tracked down a budget-friendly alternative.

If you're looking to bring the latest interior design trends to your home in a way that's chic and timeless, this style is worth taking a peek at.

One of the main reasons that Vanessa Hudgens’ wallpaper idea works so well is because of the light color palette.

“This lightens the room and balances the darker wood furniture, which contrasts against the print beautifully,” says Bre Hance, principal designer and CEO of InHance.

“I also like how the long branch and trunk at full height really elongates the room and makes it feel more grand,” she continues.

As well as this, it looks beautiful as it taps into a timeless small space interior design trend — nature.

“People are drawn to elements that make them feel connected to the outdoors, especially in today’s world where everything can feel so fast-paced,” explains Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty. “Nature-inspired designs like this bring a sense of calm and grounding into a home.”

If you want to bring the outdoors into your home, you can do this in a host of different ways.

“Try wall treatments that look like trees or plants and blue and green colors accessories or art,” suggests Bre.

“You can place a mirror that reflects an outdoor feature at almost no cost to you,” she adds.

Plus, you can incorporate indoor plants into your home to refresh your space and add vibrancy.

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Nature-inspired prints are incredibly on-trend right now, and Vanessa Hudgens’ walls make it easy to see why.

“There’s something about bringing the outside in that just works, whether it’s for a sense of peace or simply for the aesthetic,” Rachel finishes by saying.

Want to carry on shopping the High School Musical star’s home? I also have Vanessa Hudgens’ coffee maker on my wish list.

When it comes to dining room decor, going for glam is always a good idea. It's a great way to impress your guests and ensures mealtimes feel extra special.

RuPaul's space is a beautiful example of this, with sumptuous fabrics, jewel tones, and luxe decor. I've asked interior designers why these features work so well and how you can recreate the look at home — even if you're not the host of RuPaul's Drag Race and are on a budget.

If you're looking for dining room ideas that will add drama to your home, RuPaul's place is dreamy and dazzling.

Looking at RuPaul's dining room, you can immediately see the bold choices at play — and let me tell you that they werk.

“The mix of colors and patterns makes me happy! It’s eclectic and can easily be recreated for any home whether on a budget or not,” says Bre Hance, principal designer and CEO of InHance.

The first things that caught my eye were the green velvet dining room chairs, which bring in one of 2024’s hottest design trends — jewel tones.

“They've got that deep, rich tone that just pops against the neutral backdrop, while the gold hardware adds a level of sophistication,” explains Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty. “They're the kind of chairs that say, ‘This is luxury, but it's also comfort.’”

Rachel adds that the table with its clean lines, balances out the lushness of the chairs, and create a nice contrast to them.

“The chandelier is a statement piece, with the warm glow from the golden feather-like design bringing a soft, luxurious feel to the room without overwhelming it,” she says.

The wallpaper is another bold choice, with it being busy but still adding texture. “The small pattern works because it's paired with simpler, more solid elements in the room,” Rachel adds. Even if you’re renting, you can achieve a similar look with peel-and-stick wallpaper.

I’m also a fan of the huge bar area, which has a speakeasy, Art Deco style deco. “It works because it's built into the room naturally — nothing about it feels forced or out of place,” Rachel explains. “It's a perfect backdrop for entertaining, with just the right amount of attention to detail.”

For those looking for small dining room ideas, you could go for bar carts instead, to create a hosting zone without taking up too much room.

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By playing with fun prints and bold textures, the star has created a fabulous room that looks oh-so-luxe.

“From head to toe, through to the accessories, RuPaul’s dining room is a total winner and brings all the fun vibes,” Bre finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scouting out more celeb dining areas? For those who love chic yet minimalist looks, Eva Longoria’s dining room is also a stylish space.

One of my favorite holidays has to be Halloween. I love finding new ways to decorate my home around this, and one of the hottest styles this season is Beetlejuicecore.

The new movie Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is inspiring interior designers everywhere to add striking colors, playful patterns, and gothic and vintage furniture to the homes they're dressing. I've asked them how to get the look, as well as well as picked out some beautifully spooky buys.

If you're looking to bring Halloween trends into your place this year, this is a big one that's perfect for maximalist lovers.

What is Beetlejuicecore?

This latest interior design trend is inspired by the popular Beetlejuice movies which all have a similar aesthetic.

“The Beetlejuicecore trend takes inspiration from the iconic Tim Burton franchise, pulling in a mix of spooky, vintage, and eccentric elements that when done right, can create a space that's bold, quirky, and uniquely yours,” explains Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty.

“Think black and white stripes, bold colors like purples and greens, and a mix of gothic and vintage furniture that looks like it's been pulled straight out of another era — or dimension,” she adds.

Why is Beetlejuicecore popular at the moment?

The reason Rachel says that spooky, vintage styles like this have made a comeback is simple — people are craving something different, something that breaks the mold of the minimalist, sleek designs that have dominated for so long.

This is something I’ve seen time and time again this year, such as with the trends of vintage nostalgia and dopamine dressing.

“There's a desire to inject personality into homes, and Beetlejuicecore does that in a big way,” says Rachel.

She continues, “It's a trend that's unapologetically loud and playful, tapping into that nostalgia for the bizarre, yet creating spaces that still feel cozy and lived-in.”

How to bring Beetlejuicecore into your home

For those who want to dip their toes into Beetlejuicecore, start with stripes — aka the pattern the titular character wears.

“Stripes are the signature print of the Beetlejuice movie and will be the main design element to consider when styling your home to achieve an authentic, Beetlejuice-inspired style,” explains Cassandra Leisz, creative director at Ruggable.

“When adding striped patterns to your interior, it’s important to remember the impact the direction of the pattern will have on your room,” she says.

For example, Cassandra says horizontal striping will make a room appear wider whereas vertical striping will give the illusion that the room is taller.

You can either achieve this with peel-and-stick wallpaper or with a fun black and white striped rug.

As well as going for this impactful print, it’s also important to consider how you can incorporate pops of color.

“When it comes to opting for a color palette for your striped decor, you can either opt for high-contrast stripes or low-contrast stripes, depending on how bold you want to go,” says Cassandra.

“You’ll want to choose moody hues of charcoal, black, navy or burgundy to really hone in on the gothic undertone of the film,” she adds.

Finish all this off with vintage decor pieces for an authentic look that looks old-school cool.

“Vintage-style mirrors, or an old-school, gothic lamp can instantly bring the vibe without taking over the entire room,” Rachel adds. “Mixing those bolder pieces with more neutral or toned-down items helps balance things out.”

“If you're on a budget, thrift, and secondhand stores are your best friend. They're a treasure trove for vintage furniture and unique décor that fits the Beetlejuicecore vibe,” she continues.

In these, you can find old frames, antique candlesticks, or even some funky mismatched chairs that add just the right amount of spooky flair without costing a fortune.

Get the Beetlejuicecore look

By drawing inspiration from the Beetlejuice movie and tastefully incorporating it into your home, you can create a space that’s spooky and chic.

“The trick is to balance the dark, eccentric elements with something softer, so your space feels more like a curated, interesting home rather than a set from a movie,” Rachel finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scouting out this season’s hottest looks? You may also find fall decor trends useful.

Fall is the season of bountifulness and beauty, and one of the best ways you can celebrate this in your home is by decorating your table.

Whether you're planning on hosting Thanksgiving guests or just want to make your evening meals a cozier experience, giving your table a glow up is a great idea. I've spent hours looking online and I've sought out a host of centerpieces, napkins, and dinnerware that are perfect for doing this. As Real Homes' content editor, I've got an eye for beautiful design and an even better eye for a bargain.

If you're looking for fall home decor buys that will suit your dining room perfectly, these picks are worth taking a look at.

Fall centerpieces

Create a Thanksgiving decor focal point that your guests will want to gather around.

Fall dinnerware

Complement your delicious Thanksgiving meals with these dinnerware pieces that are good enough to eat.

Fall napkins

Keep your fall outfits neat and tidy by ensuring you have the cutest seasonal napkins.

By decorating your table with these pretty picks, you're sure to create a space that's delightful for guests this season.

Want to carry on styling your home for the season? I'm also a fan of fall kitchen ideas and fall doorstep ideas.

Have you ever dived into a delicious pot of JELL-O and wondered what it might be like to sit on it? Okay, no, me neither — but nonetheless, I'm totally here for the jelly brand's new furniture range The Jelly Collection on Amazon.

“For over 150 years, JELL-O has been at the heart of joyful family moments, big and small,” says Tyler Parker, brand manager of desserts at Kraft Heinz. “By blending our heritage with a modern twist, we’re inviting consumers to embrace the playful spirit that has made JELL-O a beloved favorite for generations.”

The funky chairs in the range are available in four fun colors — yellow, green, red, and orange — which all represent a JELL-O flavor (lemon, lime, strawberry, and of course, orange!). They also all come with an adorable built-in JELLO-cup holder, so you can snack while you relax.

If you’re looking to bring dopamine decor or the Y2K aesthetic into your house, apartment, or even your dorm room, these adorable seats are worth taking a look at. They're only available for a limited time, so you might want to be quick if you think they're as cute as I do.

I think these chairs will make any home look bright, colorful, and inviting, and at just $30, you could always grab a couple to create a lovely living room seating set.

As well as this, I also think they’re a quirky way to bring the nostalgia trend into your home, which has been a huge interior design trend this year.

As Real Homes' content editor, I'm always looking for beautiful and interesting home renovations. One of my favorite that I've seen recently is Ed Westwick and Amy Jackson's on Instagram, which is a beautiful example of how to bring sustainability in without compromising on style.

I've asked an interior designer and an architect why their choices work so well and how you can get the look at home. Wooden and marble materials, bright and natural lighting, and neutral color palettes are some of their favorite parts.

If you're looking for dream home renovation ideas that are stylish and swoon-worthy, this home has plenty to fawn over.

The first thing that captured my attention was the gorgeous open-plan kitchen and living room design.

“This creates an airy space by removing walls, ideal for entertaining and allowing natural light to flood the interior,” says Pam Hutter, design expert and principal of Hutter Architects.

She adds that the large windows and skylights boost this natural lighting and connect the indoors to outdoor living spaces.

This is complemented by the reclaimed wood flooring and beams, which are an eco-friendly choice and add warmth. Sustainable choices are big interior design trends for this year.

“I like that these add a soft, natural texture that perfectly complements the rustic-modern aesthetic,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

If you’re looking to grab reclaimed wood yourself, it’s worth seeking out local reclaimed lumber dealers, demolition sites, and older farms.

These are present throughout rooms such as the spacious state-of-the-art kitchen, with high-end stainless steel kitchen appliances, marble kitchen countertops, and an oversized island.

Even if you don’t have the budget for real marble, you can make your small space look luxe by using peel-and-stick tiles.

Luxe touches also feature in the master suite. “The master suite has luxury details like a freestanding tub, marble shower, and dual vanities, which are all brilliant modern bathroom ideas,” Pam says.

All of this is softened by the lime wash walls. “This is an eco-friendly choice that adds a natural texture that perfectly complements the rustic-modern aesthetic,” Nina adds.

Limewash is just a paint type made from literally lime and water, and gives the surface a textured, matte, and chalky appearance.

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By focusing on eco-friendly and natural materials, natural light, and neutral colors, you can create a space like this one on a budget.

“Ed Westwick’s home renovation is a masterclass in blending rustic-modern countryside charm with sustainable luxury, creating a space that feels both timeless and inviting,” Nina finishes by saying.

Looking for more rustic and relaxed celeb home inspo? I also love Hailey Bieber’s kitchen, which is so California chic.

I'm a big fan of rom-coms. Richard Curtis' movies such as Four Weddings and a Funeral, Love Actually, and Notting Hill in particular all have a relaxed, warm, and beautifully thrown-together vibe that makes them satisfying to watch. TikTok has named this the frazzled English woman aesthetic, thanks to the main characters in these whose homes are very much lived-in,

While the Nancy Meyers aesthetic dominated interiors in spring and summer thanks to its bright and breezy style, this cozy film-inspired design style is much more suited for fall and winter. I've asked interior designers what it's about, how to get the look at home, plus picked out beautiful decor buys.

If you're looking to bring fall home trends into your home and like all things European and English cottage style, you're going to love this look.

What is the frazzled English woman trend?

This interior design trend is perfect for those who love snug and sophisticated interiors. “The frazzled English trend takes great cues from the worlds of Richard Curtis movies,” says Kfir Aharon, design expert and owner of House Design Hub.

He continues, “The style adores the lived-in, somewhat messy home of characters that have been played by actresses like Renée Zellweger, Kate Winslet, and Keira Knightley.”

“To many, this aesthetic is that little relief from perfection that has grown too weary — an eminently real, cozy approach to home decor,” he adds.

How to bring the frazzled English woman aesthetic into your home

This style is all about embracing a casual, cluttered coziness, which is easy to bring into your home.

“I achieve this look for my clients using vintage-inspired furniture like faded velvet settees or upholstered headboards, lots of pillows and throws in floral prints or chintz patterns, and a lighter color palette of creams, pale blues, and roses,” says Bob Berriz, interior designer and owner of Berriz Design.

Natural light is key, so Bob suggests focusing on maximizing windows and adding crystal or glass accessories to make a small space appear bigger and brighter.

“Another hallmark of this style is collecting antique or thrift accessories like stacked books, porcelain vases, or silver trays to give the space a lived-in feel,” Bob explains.

“I often add decorative touches from local craft fairs or antique stores to make the space authentic to my client.” This is also a great way to bring the vintage nostalgia trend into your home.

The key is not worrying about everything matching perfectly, as the charm is in the slightly undone look. “By doing this, the overall impression will be a relaxed, feminine sanctuary inspired by English country charm,” Bob adds.

Get the look

With some key pieces and a curated collection of accessories, anyone can channel the frazzled English woman look in their own home.

“Start by designating a space for unwinding with a cup of tea and a good book — that's the essence of this charming style,” Bob finishes by saying.

Want to carry on bringing autumnal coziness into your home? I’m also loving Anthropologie's fall collection this year, which is full of pretty pumpkin buys.

One of my favorite things about fall is the beautiful colors that come with it. Rich berries, sunset leaves, and dark brown paths are all synonymous with this season.

If you're like me and love these, there are plenty of ways to bring them into your home. “Whether it’s getting a house ready for market or simply making a space feel more like home, fall is the perfect time to play around with rich colors and inviting decor,” says Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty.

For those looking for fall home decor ideas that incorporate gorgeous hues, these are all worth trying out in your place.

1. Burnt orange

Earthy tones are a fall staple, but if you want to bring warmth into your home this season, you might want to think beyond your basic browns.

“Let’s spice things up a bit! Think about using burnt orange to bring a natural, grounded feeling to a space, but with a bit more character than your typical neutrals,” Rachel explains.

“I’ve even seen clients use it as a base for stenciled designs, giving a playful, textured effect that adds a unique personality to the room,” she adds.

This is a fun way to add warmth to your walls without going overboard — especially if you’re planning on switching back after the season is done.

2. Mustard yellow

Fall leaves don’t just turn orange — they also turn rich shades of yellow, which is a bright and playful shade.

“When used strategically, you can use mustard yellow to bring a fresh, vibrant energy to your space,” says Rachel.

“For example, a mostly neutral fall living room with a stunning mustard yellow armchair with a deep teal throw draped over it can look perfect,” she continues.

Or, you could go for a yellow peel-and-stick wallpaper like above. I think the Red Barrel Studio Daela Peel & Stick Floral Roll from Wayfair is super chic and it's easy to reposition.

Rachel adds that this is a surprise element that keeps things interesting without overwhelming the snug vibe you’re trying to create.

3. Cream

For those who love minimalist interiors but still want to get in on the fall color decorating game, you can pick out neutrals with warm undertones.

“Cream tones are always brilliant for creating a warm, relaxing feel,” says Jerome Bertuglia, design expert and owner of Prime Homes, Inc.

“For a cozier look, incorporate plush textiles like chenille, velvet, or boucle in a mix of these shades,” he adds.

The Kelly Clarkson Home Madison Chunky Knit Throw from Wayfair is very similar to the one above and is handmade, too.

You can also pair them up with touches of rust orange, ochre, or burnt sienna to add even more fall into your space.

4. Forest green

Taking long walks through trees with dark green cedar trees, wrapped up and clasping a hot chocolate, is one of my top fall activities.

So, it just makes sense to go for this moody hue — especially as darker tones are one of the top interior trends for this year.

“Clients love deep forest greens, which evoke the lushness of fall foliage. Use this jewel tone on walls or with decorative accents for dramatic impact,” says Jerome.

If you want to go for something a little less dramatic, teal blue is also a beautiful shade that transitions well into spring and summer.

5. Bronze

Love making your small space look luxe? Metallic shades are one of the best ways to do this, which you can get in fall colors.

“Don’t shy away from using color in places you wouldn’t normally think of, like your kitchen or bathroom,” Rachel suggests.

She adds, “Swap out some of the usual black or silver hardware for bronze.”

You can also go for bronze-colored lighting fixtures, such as the Eloise Glass Sconce from Anthropologie that's perfect for bringing the vintage nostalgia trend into your home.

This is a subtle yet stylish way to bring a touch of sophistication to spaces that are often overlooked in the seasonal decorating frenzy.

Play with these colors and you’ll create a space that feels special and inviting.

“There are so many wonderful ways to bring the spirit of fall into your home's design,” Jerome finishes by saying.

Want to carry on decorating for this season? I’m also loving fall kitchen ideas and fall doorstep ideas at the moment.

Out of all the trends that have come and gone this year, the one that has prevailed and that I have seen everywhere is vintage nostalgia.

I've given this a name, as I haven't seen it defined anywhere yet. Basically, this is the art of people bringing in items that they have a sentimental attachment to, which gives the home a vintage, personable feel. I've asked interior designers who have spotted it too what it is, why it works so well, and how to get the look at home.

If you're looking to bring the latest interior design trends into your home in a way that's meaningful and impactful long-term, this one is worth trying.

What is vintage nostalgia?

When it comes to big and small space interior design trends, minimalist interiors are out and maximalist interiors are in this year.

Vintage nostalgia is all about carefully curating pieces that have meaning to you and incorporating them into your home in a modern and stylish way.

“The stark, cool interiors took over the interior space in recent years, but now, there's a growing desire to infuse warmth and personality into our homes,” explains Rebecca Hansen, principal designer and founder of Rebecca J Hansen Design Studio.

“If it's a mid-century chair passed down from your grandparents or side tables you find at a flea market, they invoke memories and feelings of that time,” she continues.

These pieces are sentimental and are stories of the homeowner. “We don't want to live in an antique store, nor do we want to live in a sparse gallery-like space — it's about balance in the overall narrative of the home,” Rebecca adds.

Why vintage nostalgia is so popular at the moment

At the moment so many people are reaching for nostalgia in various areas of their lives, whether they’re watching their favorite ‘90s TV shows over and over again or incorporating vintage pieces they love into their homes.

“I think people are drawn to nostalgia for a reason. In these uncertain times, it evokes a sense of comfort and security, reminding us of happy memories,” says Joyce Huston, lead interior designer and co-founder of Decorilla.

“I added my favorite childhood blanket (yes I still have it) back home and these types of items spark great joy and create a warm and inviting atmosphere in my home,” she adds. Fabrics are a great way to bring this in, whether you go for a throw like Joyce or dust off your grandma's favorite tablecloth.

How to bring vintage nostalgia into your home

If you want to bring vintage nostalgia into your home in a way that’s refined and inviting, there are a host of things you can do.

“I have advised my clients to pair a sleek, modern couch with a vintage armchair, as well as hanging a piece of abstract art next to a family heirloom,” says Joyce. “You just need to make sure the scale and proportion of the pieces work together.”

She continues, “A fresh coat of paint or reupholstery can breathe new life into an old piece. This is a great way to personalize a vintage find and make it fit your style.”

Joyce also says to make sure vintage pieces are used as accents, not the focal point of the room. This is because too much vintage can make the space feel cluttered and overwhelming.

“I feel it’s better to have a few well-chosen vintage pieces than a bunch of random stuff. I often look for pieces that are made well and have a timeless quality,” she adds.

Get the vintage nostalgia look

By bringing vintage nostalgia into your space, you’re sure to create a space that feels cozy, inviting, and irresistibly yours.

Want to carry on bringing 2024 trends into your home? I also identified Amalficore as a huge trend this year, which is so cute and summery.

Fall has to be my favorite season. The leaves are beautiful colors, the days are made for hot chocolate, and I get to decorate my home with adorable seasonal decor.

I've asked interior designers for the styles they think will be big this season, and I'm so excited about all of them. Putting an emphasis on coziness, choosing earthy colors, and playing with vintage styles are just a couple of top suggestions.

If you're looking to bring the latest interior design trends into your home and want to tailor your home for fall, these are all worth trying.

1. Maximum coziness

This is the season for snuggling up, and this year more than ever people are reaching for home comforts.

“One thing I have noticed clients asking for is putting an emphasis on coziness,” explains Andre Kazimierski, design expert and CEO of Improovy Painters of La Grange.

“Colors like greens and browns can really help invite a warmer, cozier atmosphere inside, while also helping connect to the natural elements of the season,” he continues.

Andre adds that decorative elements such as candles and naturalistic decor such as preserved leaves are also perfect for enhancing the warm and inviting vibes.

2. Playful nostalgia

One of the biggest small space trends this year has been nostalgia, with people bringing in pieces that remind them of certain times and things. This is coming in a big way in fall.

“I've been seeing a desire for more ‘on the nose’ fall decor like colorful leaf garlands, pumpkins, and brighter fall tones,” explains Nikki Lo, interior design expert at hipandhome.

She continues, “For a lot of people, fall is getting warmer, and they're losing all the fall classics that naturally occur this time of year, like cooler temperatures and changing leaves.”

Nikki adds that this is a great way to celebrate and romanticize this season. So, don’t be afraid to hang up fall wreaths, choose fall decor like pumpkins, and go big with leaf motifs.

3. Earthy tones

While it can be easy to reach for oranges and burgundies this season, this year designers are thinking slightly outside the box.

“In terms of colors, earthy, muted tones like sage and olive green are taking center stage, often paired with natural materials to create serene, grounding spaces,” says Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty.

“These colors work beautifully in minimalist settings and can be easily incorporated through paint, textiles, or even the addition of indoor plants,” she adds.

If you want to add colorful contrast, Rachel suggests using vibrant hues like cobalt blue to add pops of energy and personality. “These can be introduced through accessories like throw pillows, artwork, or accent chairs,” she adds.

4. Organic minimalism

This year design pros have been waving goodbye to all gray-minimalism, instead adding pieces with more personality.

“I’ve seen a shift from this towards a warmer, more organic minimalism that incorporates natural materials like wood and jute,” Rachel says.

This style emphasizes a mix of wood tones and organic textures, resulting in spaces that feel both modern and inviting.

5. Cottagecore vintage

I’ve seen cottagecore making a huge comeback this year, which is hallmarked by vintage-style decor with animal and nature motifs.

“This trend is all about personal expression and curated collections, encouraging the blending of decor from different eras and styles to create spaces that feel authentic and timeless,” explains Rachel.

If you want to find pieces with real character, I recommend scouting out secondhand furniture stores such as Goodwill and looking on sites like Etsy.

To bring these fall decor trends into your home, make sure to focus on layering textures and incorporating statement pieces.

“Plus, feel free to blend different styles — like pairing an earthy-colored sofa with a vintage coffee table — to create a unique, balanced aesthetic that reflects your personal taste,” Rachel finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scouting out seasonal decor? Finding out where to buy Halloween decorations will also be useful.

During summer, one of my favorite things is a delicious scoop of pistachio green gelato. It's classic, comforting, and seriously sweet.

This season the shade has made waves in the interior scene, and let me tell you, designers are as excited about it as I am. I've asked them why it's so popular, how to style it in the home, plus put together beautiful pistachio green buys that I've got my eye on.

If you're looking to bring summer decor trends into your home and want to bring in a fun pop of color, pistachio green is a gorgeous way to go.

Why pistachio green is on trend

This year I’ve seen nature-inspired textures and tones become major interior design trends and interior color trends. Pistachio green brings both of these together in a stunning way.

“Pistachio green is a captivating color that blends a strong green base with subtle yellow undertones, creating a shade that is both refreshing and versatile,” explains Andrea Schumacher, interior designer at Andrea Schumacher Interiors.

“It evokes a sense of calm and connection to nature, making it an ideal choice for home interiors, while color’s earthy quality brings the outdoors in, fostering a serene and grounded atmosphere,” she says.

Andrea adds that green, particularly in the pistachio shade, has long been associated with elegance and timelessness. “Its rich tones add a touch of luxury to any space while remaining adaptable across different design styles.”

She continues, “Beyond its natural and glamorous appeal, pistachio green also exudes a mature and sophisticated vibe, making it a popular choice for contemporary interiors.”

For example, if you love Brat summer green but don’t want to go for Charli XCX’s living room style, pistachio is a chicer way to go for green.

How to bring pistachio green into your home

When it comes to styling pistachio green at home, there are plenty of options, whether you're on a budget or looking to make a lasting investment.

“Wallpapers or accent pieces like throw pillows in pistachio green are easy and affordable ways to incorporate the color into your space without causing damage,” Andrea says.

“Investing in statement furniture pieces or timeless wallpapers in pistachio green can also transform a room into a stylish sanctuary,” she adds.

For a larger impact, you can also consider switching up your flooring.

“Bamboo planks or carpeting in paler pistachio shades can make a small space appear bigger,” says Pam Hutter, principal designer and owner of Hutter Architects. “Darker, moodier greens like forest on floors can also work well, especially if balanced with lighter green accents elsewhere.”

Pistachio green also works well when contrasted with richer shades, making your small space space look luxe.

“Try pairing the color with gold or deep blue elements to create a sumptuous and cohesive design,” Andrea adds.

Shop our pistachio green edit

Overall, the key to styling pistachio green is finding the right balance of light and brightness and contrasting this with deeper, more muted shades.

“This creates a harmonious yet playful space reflecting the optimism of the color itself,” Pam finishes by saying.

Want to carry on bringing summer shades into your space? I also love butter yellow, which has been everywhere this year.

A backsplash is an integral part of your bathroom, not only can it add a design feature, but it's practical too. Those pesky splashes from every member of the family can accumulate quickly during the day and cause damp issues later.

Whether your bathroom is small or large, it's worth having a backsplash even if it's just a few inches above your sink, it all helps. 

We've sourced our bathroom ideas for you to try in your home and there's something for everyone whatever your style. 

1. Stencil on to white tiles

If the budget is tight then be inspired by this fabulous idea from paint and color expert, Annie Sloan CBE. All you need is some white tiles behind your sink, the right paints, and a stencil – or if you're creative you can paint your own design freehand. 

"Chalk paint can be applied to virtually any surface – including tiles! It’s fabulous on backsplashes and flooring," says Annie. "Here, we used a stencil to give a charming and whimsical floral design above the sink. It gives the cheap white tiles a bespoke, boutique hotel flair on a budget and can easily be updated to keep your bathroom looking and feeling fresh, season after season."

Florals are a good place to start to prettify a dark bathroom, or if you love a modern look then consider a graphic design instead. 

2. Match your backsplash to your floor

If you're remodeling and tiling your whole bathroom then consider taking your wall tiles up past the top of your sink to create a backsplash, and of course, we absolutely love this idea of matching your wall and floor tiles at the same time!

Damla Turgut, founder of Otto Tiles & Design explains why it works so well, "I love to mix and match tiles within an interior scheme as it adds so much more interest, character, and depth to a space. With this route, ensure that your bathroom floor and splashback echo the same color palette as the yellow stripes tiles here."

For a similar teal blue try Benjamin Moore's Waterfall 2050-50, a bright teal that looks great with yellow. 

3. Choose ice cream shades

Bathroom backsplashes can vary in height from the top of the sink, this measurement is up to you really. We like this deeper version that includes the soap dish too.

Utilising tiling in areas prone to splashing is a good idea according to Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages. He recommends behind the sink or near the bath/shower. "There are so many gorgeous tile options on the market now, and we love the different combinations you can achieve when pairing this with a bold wallpaper."

Adding a tile/wallpaper combination is a particular favorite design feature, "Tiling on the lower half of the wall and then wallpapering above can look fabulous particularly when you color match the predominant color of the paper to the tiles – the closer the match the stronger the impact."

We've picked our top three pink tiles so you can recreate this joyful bathroom backsplash. 

4. Choose a terrazzo tile

Terrazzo tiles have become popular over the last few years because they offer color and pattern that can transform your space in no time. 

It's a fun look even when just using black and white – and the beauty of it is is that you can get plenty of different colorways to suit any scheme. 

We've sourced these matte black terrazzo porcelain tiles from Walmart which will do the trick nicely to create a bold contrast against a white sink. 

5. Try navy squares for a classic look

Choose the right kind of splashback to suit your scheme – and we mean material choices as well as colors. According to Jason Cherrington, director of Lapicida, the type of material you choose needs to be suitable and practical. 

"Porcelain tiles are perfect for a bathroom backsplash as they require very little upkeep, are highly durable, and are easy to clean. In addition to the practical benefits, porcelain in the bathroom can make a beautiful design focus, as seen in this bathroom featuring our Italian Qualis rice blue tiles. They have an irregular surface with an opalescent glazed finish for an organic feel and make a fabulous backdrop for the basin.”

Highlight your bathroom backsplash with these Josef Iron retro LED wall sconces from Nordstrom, you can adjust the head for the perfect angle and they have a timeless design. 

6. Take your backsplash up to the ceiling

For a seamless design don't have a short backsplash, take it right up to the ceiling instead for one continuous visual look. 

This elegant twin sink area is located in an alcove so it naturally lends itself to a tiled back wall. The dark wood cabinetry with brass hardware grounds the space whilst the white countertop and subtle gray and white patterned tiles lighten the top half. 

We sourced three similar looks for you to check out below. 

7. Invest in marble

You can't beat a chunky marble bathroom countertop and backsplash, and this design really suits the pink retro sink that sits in the middle.

"For this 50's revival bathroom, we were searching for wall tiles in various shades of pink to ensure that the vintage 50's sink we’re reusing complements the color scheme," says Paulina Hospod, president at AHA Interiors.

Paulina then sourced the countertop and backsplash, "We also looked for a pink-toned marble and found this beautiful slab of Rosa Aurora that is now a part of the vanity top and shampoo niche."

If you're on a budget consider using Amazon's Yancorp contact paper. It's easy to apply and ideal if you're renting and want a quick update. 

8. Wallpaper is a decorative option

Believe it or not, you can use wallpaper as a backsplash and it's becoming quite a trend in bathrooms these days. With the new technological advances wallpaper is a lot sturdier and moisture-repellent than years ago. 

"Whilst wallpaper doesn’t sound like the most practical or hardy finish for a bathroom wall we can assure you it’s absolutely fine," says Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages. According to Jamie, a properly ventilated bathroom will happily accommodate wallpaper, but he does recommend sealing it. 

"Finish with a coat of decorator’s varnish on top and you can be confident that it’s well protected from splashes. It’s available in dead flat, gloss, or satin. We personally prefer the dead flat for a completely sheen-free surface, but for extra protection in backsplash areas, you can use satin, followed by dead flat. Having this product in your decorating arsenal will ensure your wallpaper stays in perfect condition."

We like SamaN waterbed dead flat varnish from Amazon, it's suitable for wallpaper and frescoes so should work well in a bathroom. 

9. Shades of blue and white

To make life easier, you can use the same tile scheme throughout your bathroom, this will give you a backsplash and an all-encompassing design. If your bathroom is on the small side then choose tiles that will brighten up your space. 

We love this combo of shades of blue with white, it's summery and cheerful and nothing beats a calming blue bathroom. It also works really well with the blond wood vanity and wall. 

We've done the hard work for you and have researched blue and white tiles ideas below. 

10. Mix two marbles

Create an elegant feel in a neutral bathroom by choosing two types of marble and using them together. 

Marble always looks great and adds a luxe feel, choose one style for your countertop and team that with marble-style tiles to act as a double backsplash. Layering like this adds texture and pattern to a scheme. 

"This powder bath design was centered on an accent zellige mosaic tile that influenced the rest of our design for the space – the marble topped shagreen floating vanity, arabescato flooring, simple mirror design, and brass fittings," says Trish Lynn, founder of Colette Interiors. 

Add warmth with a brass faucet and hardware. For a similar style to these tiles have a look at Wayfair's mosaic wall and floor tile. It has a honed finish for a softer more natural look. 

Our bathroom backsplash ideas will give you enough inspiration to update your scheme. Depending on whether you are handy at DIY you can use real tiles, seal a wallpaper, or refresh with peel-and-stick tiles. Extremely effective, they're ideal if you're on a budget and want a quick fix. Your backsplash can be plain, colorful, or textured, it really depends on what you love the most, either way, they add style and a level of protection. 

This may seem like a random trend, but trust me when I say that coffee table trends are useful to find out. This is because this table is one of the most important parts of the living room, so it's a good idea to make sure it has as much impact as possible.

I've asked design pros for the styles they've seen come up this year, and they're all easy to incorporate into the space. Organic shapes, mixed materials, and large-sized ones are just a few that they've seen. 

If you're looking to follow living room trends this year and want to focus on focal furniture pieces, these coffee table trends will come in useful.

1. Natural materials

One of the biggest interior design trends this year has been natural, sustainable materials, with many people choosing these for furniture pieces like coffee tables.

“Coffee tables crafted from reclaimed wood, stone, and even live-edge slabs are gaining popularity,” explains Elissa Hall, lead designer and founder of EDH Interiors.

She continues, “These materials not only bring a sense of the outdoors inside but also add unique textures and warmth to living spaces.”

For instance, Elissa says a live-edge walnut coffee table can serve as both a functional piece and a statement of sustainable design. The Keelan Scott Live Edge Coffee Table from Wayfair is a beautiful example of this and comes with all the assembly tools required.

2. Unique designs

Coffee tables with a simple rectangular or circular shape are officially out, with people reaching for ones with more playfulness and character.

“Think an organically shaped surface, a spherical base, or pairing materials you wouldn't normally pair together,” explains Nikki Lo, design expert at hip&home. “The table is the star of the show, and the accompanying decor is just the cherry on top.”

She continues, “I love this trend because it encourages people to express their personal style in coffee table form. While there's nothing wrong with a basic coffee table, this trend is encouraging people to get creative and add a functional piece of art to their home.”

To bring this into your home, Nikki says to look for anything out of the ordinary and anything that makes you stop and look.

If you want to go out of your way to find something different, try searching in secondhand furniture stores and thrift stores to find a unique showstopper.

3. Spaciousness

Finding spacious coffee tables with storage is ideal for those designing small living rooms, as this allows you to make the most of the space you have.

“Large, rectangular tables with storage underneath anchor living rooms and provide surface area for decor, books, and snacks when entertaining,” explains Francisco Romero, design expert at Romero Hardwood Floors Inc.

You can go for a range of materials in these, but Francisco suggests going for ones with steel frames with wood or stone tops, as they’re versatile and complement most decor styles. 

For example, the Wade Logan Lift-Top Bijolle Coffee Table from Wayfair matches this suggestion, is stain-resistant, and comes with a one-year warranty.

4. Mixed materials

More homes this year are embracing creativity, mixing a range of styles and materials in order to create a characterful look.

“The juxtaposition of sleek metal frames with rustic wooden tops or glass surfaces creates a balanced aesthetic that fits both contemporary and eclectic interiors,” explains Elissa.

“Recently I brought a coffee table into a minimalist farmhouse project, which had a brass frame and a reclaimed wood top,” she says.

By mixing materials like this, you can add a touch of sophistication without overpowering the room’s simplicity.

5. Luxe styles

One trend that hasn’t gone anywhere is quiet luxury, with many celebs embracing it in their homes, like in Lewis Hamilton’s living room, This is easily brought in with a statement coffee table.

“A marble top table with a gold metal frame will make a bold statement,” Francisco says.

Pair this up with accessories that will make your small space look luxe, such as the best candles or coffee table books (my sister has the Chanel: The Complete Collections Book from Amazon and it's a brilliant conversation starter), for a chic, hotel-style finish.

Coffee table trends edit

In the end, the most important trend is finding a table, whether glass, wood or metal, that fits your personal style and needs. 

“Anchoring your furniture arrangement around a coffee table you love will make any living space feel complete,” Francisco finishes by saying.

Want to shop for more trends you can bring into your living space? Finding out lighting trends for the year will also be useful.

If you're living in a small space, changing up your flooring is one of the best ways to make it appear bigger, as the right shades can create the illusion of more depth.

I've asked interior designers for the best colors to try, and they have all agreed on three chic designs that are worth trying. From pale stone to bold patterns, there are a host of textures that will suit a variety of aesthetics.

For those looking for small kitchen ideas that will make a small space appear bigger, choosing floor colors and patterns that will enhance the room is a smart idea.

1. Stone

Whether you love minimalist or modern kitchen floor ideas, gray flooring will add sophistication to your space.

“For renters and homeowners alike, lighter colored floors like pale gray stone open up cramped kitchens and reflect natural light to make the space feel more spacious,” says Nick Chatzigeorgakis, interior designer at Intrabuild.

“Pale gray can create an open, airy feel, while reflective stone can deeper into the space,” adds Ryan Norman, design expert at Nordman Builders.

For renters, Ryan says that self-adhesive vinyl planks in subtle colors offer a similar effect more affordably. 

For example, the Bond Tile Sanskrit Porcelain Patterned Subway from Wayfair is water-resistant and can be used on walls as well as floors.

2. Checkerboard

I’m a fan of patterned kitchen tiles, with marble checkerboard flooring adding a touch of luxe and regular checkerboard working brilliantly in '50s diner style kitchens.

“For small but dramatic kitchens, a bold patterned tile can create visual interest without closing in the space,” Nick says.

He suggests mixing and matching shades, as dark colors by themselves can make your cooking space look cramped.

You can also balance this pattern out with light and bright cabinet ideas and kitchen island ideas, which will also help it stand out even more.

I love the look of the Merola Tile Merzoni Tiles from Wayfair, which are giving me serious Parisian vibes and are high-quality, according to shoppers.

3. Wood

This is one of the most timeless kitchen designs, with wood always looking effortlessly elegant and inviting. 

“Wood floors work well in small kitchens because they warm the space,” Nick says. “For example, we used narrow rustic oak planks in a project to keep the kitchen cozy rather than closed-in.”

Ryan agrees, saying he used a similar material in a cottage-style kitchen, which made it look cozy and relaxed.

“The results come down to manipulating tones and textures to dictate how the space is perceived,” adds Nick.

You can still achieve this even if you’re renting, such as with peel-and-stick vinyl like the Homease Vinyl Flooring Plank from Walmart that comes in four different colors.

With the right balance of light and bright elements, even a patterned or darker floor can create drama without sacrificing openness. 

“The results come down to manipulating tones and textures to dictate how the space is perceived,” Ryan finishes by saying.

Want to carry on creating the illusion of more space in this room? Finding out the kitchen cabinet colors that will make a small space look bigger will also come in useful.

Shop kitchen flooring buys

I have seen retro home decor ideas absolutely everywhere this year. Interior designers are leaning towards nostalgia, as more and more people crave comforts at home.

I've asked a range of design pros who have all decorated with retro interiors how they've brought this style in, while keeping homes looking fresh and stylish. Mixing and matching eras, bold prints, and funky accessories are just a few of their favorite tips and tricks.

Whether you're looking to bring one of the hottest interior design trends into your home or just love the idea of going for a blast to the past, I've got you covered with plenty of inspiration.

1. Swap in retro appliances and accessories

One of the easiest ways to make a bold impact in your retro-style space is by switching out big and small kitchen appliances.

“Vintage-style appliances like Smeg fridges are key elements in these designs, offering a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern functionality,” says Sean Phillips, interior designer and founder of Otto ADU.

If you’re renting like I am and don’t want to do anything drastic, you can also swap out smaller accessories for vintage-style decor.

“Things like lava lamps, sunburst clocks, or old adverts framed as art can add personality,” adds Malak Bellajdel, interior designer and consultant for Interior Moderna.

2. Bring in pops of vintage color

Some of the biggest interior design paint color trends this year include natural tones and pastels, which are also great ways to bring nostalgic style in.

"One fun way to bring a vintage vibe into your space is to focus on colors that remind us of past decades,” says Malak.

“Think avocado green and harvest gold from the ’70s or pastels like mint and pink from the ’50s,” she says.

You can also use furniture to bring these colors in — for example, the Mercer41 Johntavius Velvet Barrel Chair from Wayfair comes in a beautiful mint green, has a tufted back, and comes with all the assembly tools required.

3. Anchor with a few key pieces

When it comes retro, it can be easy to go overboard. While this can look fun and eclectic, it does run the risk of your space not looking cohesive.

“I often recommend starting with a few key pieces and building from there. A vintage rug or a statement light fixture can be the perfect anchor for your retro-inspired room,” explains Joyce Huston, interior designer and co-founder of Decorilla Online Interior Design.

“Even just adding a retro-style accent wall or a few vintage throw pillows can give your room a classic feel,” adds Malak.

This way, you won’t end up with a time capsule and will have a space with nostalgic nods that still feel chic. 

4. Be bold with patterns and textures

Once you’ve decided on your retro color palette, key appliances, and main focal points, you can layer these carefully with different patterns and textures.

Malak explains, “Geometric prints, bold florals, and shag rugs all scream retro.”

She also suggests adding fun wallpaper to a small space like an entryway or looking for curtains or vintage-inspired patterns. 

You could also pair these up with retro textures, such as crushed velvet pillows in flower shapes. I like the Drew Barrymore Home Pleated Decorative Pillow from Walmart, which comes in four gorgeous colors and has a removable cover.

5. Pick the right furniture

Furniture is a great way to get the retro feel, with so many time periods offering different styles.

Joyce explains, “Whether it’s the sleek lines of mid-century modern or the bold patterns of the ’70s, there’s a retro vibe for everyone.”

“One client, a young professional, was obsessed with groovy vibes. We transformed her living room into a psychedelic paradise with a mustard yellow velvet sofa, which was bold, unexpected, and totally captured her personality,” she adds.

Malak agrees, saying that pieces with tapered legs or smooth, curved lines are a good choice. “You can usually find these kinds of features in mid-century pieces,” she adds.

For real authenticity, you can scout out vintage furniture pieces at secondhand stores such as Goodwill. 

6. Don't be afraid to go glam

I love bold prints and sharp lines, but I’m also a fan of going down the more glitzy route, such as with Art Deco style.

“For one client, we channeled the glamor of the Art Deco era,” explains Joyce. “We used rich jewel tones, mirrored furniture, and geometric patterns to create a sophisticated and luxurious space.”

The beauty of this aesthetic is that it works in every room of the house, whether you want to make your small bathroom look luxe or create a hotel-style bedroom.

7. Mix and match different eras

One of the best ways to bring retro style in with a modern feel is by mixing and matching different eras.

“This may seem like a lot, but sometimes an eclectic mix feels more authentic than sticking to just one decade,” Malak adds.

You could either do this in one room or scatter various styles throughout your home to create a colorful and vibrant journey for you and your guests.

No matter whether you go big or small or what time period you encapsulate, retro home decor will add personality to your home.

Want to carry on scouting out nostalgic design? I love ’50s diner-style kitchens, as they’re so striking and can be easily achieved in different-sized homes.

When you're putting together your first home, or starting to hit your interior style stride, there aren't many furniture pieces that deliver as much impact as a gorgeous and fun sculpted or statement chair.

I'm a homes editor and perpetual bargain hunter, so a good looking chair is my all-time top furniture buy. It instantly serves serious style into any room, plus creates a great opportunity to bring in function — one of my top tips for small space living.

I've handpicked a few chair styles that make my heart sing and asked a brilliant interior designer for her best accent chairs, including picks from her own home. I've also tracked down alternatives you can grab at a big discount if the designer prices are out of budget.

Designer tips for picking statement chairs

Nina Lichtenstein, principle designer and founder of Nina's Home Design says when selecting a sculpted chair for your space, ensure its size fits comfortably and complements the existing decor without overwhelming it. 

She explains, "Pay attention to proportionality, especially if the chair needs to slide under a table. Consider the chair's height and design to seamlessly fit under the table, taking into account legroom and table height."

She also advises to make sure the chair complements the overall scale and proportion of the room, as this can affect both visual harmony and practical functionality. 

Nina adds, "This attention to detail ensures the chair enhances, rather than disrupts, your room's design aesthetic and usability."

The scalloped chair

I'm a sucker for a shell or clam-shaped statement chair. It gives a nod to my favorite era where Art Deco reigned supreme, but also gives any space, however plain, a touch of interest. My velvet scalloped statement chair, pictured below, worked well with my plain white vanity and was the first furniture item I purchased for my newly-built home to give it a spot of life.

I only paid around $100 dollars for it, the foam held its shape well, the upholstered material didn't show signs of wear despite three years of daily use and house guests always comment on how nice it is.

I live in the UK so my navy one is from Dunelm (and no longer stocked), but in the US, there are plentiful uncanny lookalikes, including the Hendrix Velvet Barrel Chair from Wayfair,  which comes in 14 colors, is rated 4.8/5 stars by customers, and available with one-day delivery.

The shell shape works for other areas of small home design, making a great addition to a kitchen island or dining area. Alternatively, glam up your home office with a scalloped chair on wheels such as the VANITII Accent Chair Swivel Vanity Chair from Bed Bath & Beyond, which comes in three colors.

As you can see in the image above, my newly-built home was as plain as they come, with white everything. So, the first thing I did when we moved in was add a chair I loved to the space to tide me over until I had the time and resources to paint, add in window treatments, change my mirror to the cheaper alternative of the viral Anthropologie Gleaming Primrose gold mirror, and add a rug.

I've handpicked three other scalloped designs I love below, and though I haven't tried these out myself, I've compared and contrasted features, colors, materials and spent hours reading through hundreds of customer reviews to understand what was great about them from shoppers who bought and loved them.

The rocking chair

Have you ever sat in a rocking chair? If not, you're missing out. There is something intrinsically soothing and lovely about the simple pleasure of being rocked, making this chair style a favorite of mine.

Whether you're in your parenting era, racing through your reading list in a cozy nook, or simply enjoy the gentle and welcome motion of a rocking chair, this comfortable pick is a winner.

Nina agrees, emphasizing how crucial it is to consider comfort when picking a sculpted or statement chair. She says, "Look for ergonomic designs that provide adequate support for prolonged sitting. Additionally, consider the maintenance requirements of materials used — choose fabrics or finishes that are easy to clean and maintain to ensure long-term usability and aesthetic appeal."

The beauty of a wooden rocking chair is the option to have it indoors or out.

Nina's gray rocking chair, pictured above, is the Eleya Dark Gray & Stega Gray Fabric Outdoor Rocking Chair from Article.

Nina says, "Crafted for the outdoors with high-performance fabric, this chair seamlessly transitions indoors, making it an ideal addition to any home. Its specially coated legs prevent floor scratches and ensure quiet rocking, enhancing its usability both on my wrap-around deck and in my sun room."

The Eleya is made from powder-coated aluminum and teak wood which are both durable for outdoor use, but also versatile and light if you want to bring it indoors.

Nina adds, "This spacious rocker is perfect for shared moments, comfortably seating two people — be it a parent and child, grandparent and grandchild, or two children. To style this versatile piece, place it beside an end table to hold your favorite book and a refreshing drink. Enhance its comfort and aesthetic appeal with a draped throw. Choose a neutral textured one for a cohesive look or a colorful one for a striking contrast. 

"Pair it with a complementary ottoman to maximize comfort and functionality. Its supreme comfort, combined with indoor-outdoor versatility, makes it a standout piece. I love it for its comfort, versatility, durability and stylish adaptability both indoors and out."

Nina's guests consistently praise its comfort and functionality, making it a fab pic for social-heavy spaces in the home, or a nice seating option for guest rooms. 

She recommends this sleek style of statement chair for homes with a modern farmhouse, Scandanavian, transitional (mix of classic and contemporary), rustic, coastal or mid-century modern look. 

If you prefer a glam, Art Deco, maximalist, Victorian, or an industrial look, this one probably isn't for you but hang tight for options that will suit.

The spindle-back chair

Nina has the above striking dining chairs in her open plan farmhouse style kitchen, and the structured lines of the Jace Modern Upholstered Nettlewood Dining Chair from Kathy Kuo Home are divine to look at. 

She says, "The timeless silhouette of this chair is updated with unexpected details. The chair boasts a honey brown-finished nettlewood frame paired with speckled beige performance upholstery, ensuring exceptional durability. Gunmetal-finished iron spindles elevate the seat back with an industrial touch, adding to its unique charm."

Nina recommends pairing this chair with a wood dining table to create an inviting and stylish dining area. She adds, "Enhance the dining experience with complementary table linens and centerpieces that complement the chair's warm tones and natural materials."

Nina loves this style of chair for its supreme comfort, affordability, and its earthy color palette that fits perfectly within a cozy, nature-inspired aesthetic.

Constructed from iron and solid oak and finished in brown and grey, this chair is highly adaptable, fitting into various home aesthetics thanks to its neutral colors and eye-catching design. It’s priced at $549, currently on sale for $440.

The Kathy Kuo Chair pictured above in Nina's home would fit beautifully in various design aesthetics, including bohemian and Scandinavian, but give it a wide berth if you love art deco, which is known for its bold geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and lavish materials. 

The sculpted chair

It's the sort of beautiful design you might see in a hotel lobby, but there is no reason you can't bring this shape into your home, rented or otherwise. The curved lines and and interesting seat shapes combine to make a visually striking focal point for any room. 

You can add one to the ends of a dining table or pop a gorgeous chair with a side-table and foot rest in your living space to welcome guests in style. My personal favorite is a sculpted barrel chair because the smooth, curved lines are quite simply, gorgeous to look at and instantly give a high-end feel to any space.

Real Homes content editor and resident trends expert Eve Smallman says, "Sculptured barrel chairs are a sophisticated way to add style to a small space quickly. Whether you put yours next to a bookcase to create a reading nook, pair it up with your couch to add dimension to your living space, or use it as an alternative study chair, the beauty of this sort of seat is that it can be used most anywhere in your home.

"While they have striking silhouettes by themselves and work well with neutral tones, I like the idea of going for jewel tones or soft textures such as boucle, to make even more of a contemporary impact in your home. Pair these up with matching decor to create a cohesive scheme that’s tied together and centered around this eye-catching furniture piece."

Meet the expert

If other spaces in your home need some chair TLC, our guide on the best Amazon office chairs, or best folding chairs for small spaces will send you in the right direction. If you're still stumped for ideas, Hilary Duff's accent chair is sure to bring some extra chair inspiration.

There is one shade that I've seen spread everywhere this year, and that is dreamy buttery yellow. It's light and airy, but still feels cozy, which is just one reason why I'm in love with it.

I've asked interior designers why butter yellow is the color of the year so far, explaining how it made its way from the catwalk into interiors, as well as how to decorate with it. It's so versatile, so you can complement it with warm hues or contrast it with cooler ones.

If you're looking for interior design color trends for the year that are cute and cheerful, butter yellow is my top pick.

Why butter yellow is 2024's hottest color trend

Softer shades have dominated interior design trends this year, with people reaching for dreamy, dopamine decor style shades. But, the one that has stood out and has lasted from season to season is butter yellow.

“Butter yellow is a versatile and inviting color that can bring a real sense of optimism and coziness to any space," says Cassie Leisz, creative director at Ruggable. "It's much softer and muted than bright yellows, making it easier to incorporate into various design styles.

She says that celebrities from Rihanna to Hailey Bieber have been sporting it this year, helping drive its popularity in fashion. Just like the unexpected red theory, it has transitioned into interiors.

“We also saw a lot of butter yellow tones in the latest season of Bridgerton, so it’s no surprise that this trend is just as popular in interior design,” she says.

I’ve also seen personality become a big part of interiors this year, and butter yellow is a fun base for layering other shades. 

“A soft, buttery yellow tone is a lovely alternative to a warm white or beige if you're looking for a subtle infusion of color,” adds Kathy Kuo, interior designer and founder of Kathy Kuo Home.

If you’re looking for small space design ideas, this shade is a brilliant way to make a small room appear bigger.

“It's particularly suited for rooms that need a lift or areas that don't receive much natural light as it helps mimic the way sunlight bounces off walls, in the same way as a golden hour glow,” Cassie explains.

How to bring butter yellow into your home

Want to start bringing butter yellow into your home? As with all interior trends, it’s a good idea to start small before committing fully.

“Introduce it through accessories, florals, or artwork accents, or refine it to just one space in the home like a study or entryway,” Cassie says.

She adds, “This allows you to experiment with the dolor and see how it complements your existing decor before making a larger commitment."

From here, you can choose whether to go for a warm and sunny take on it or to make it pop with darker shades.

Kathy says, “This sunny hue lends itself well to mixing and matching with any number of warm color combinations, as well as a striking contrast against cooler blues and greens."

Cassie agrees, saying to combine it with powder blue or cool-toned pinks for a Bridgerton design, or with sage greens and light peach shades for an earthy feel. “You can also layer butter yellow with other shades of yellow, like pale butter and rich mustard, for a sophisticated monochromatic look.”

If you are painting a room with it, Cassie recommends grabbing a color swatch of it and capturing pictures of it throughout the day to see how well it suits natural and artificial lighting.

The most important thing is to keep in mind your desired interior design aesthetic.

“For a romantic, vintage-inspired look, opt for a butter yellow with a hint of creaminess that evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth. But, a brighter, cooler butter yellow can add a fresh, energetic touch for a more contemporary vibe,” she says.

Shop our buttery yellow edit

Whether you go big or subtle, this beautiful color is a gorgeous option for brightening up your space.

“The key is to use butter yellow accents strategically to create subtle connections that tie the room together,” Cassie finishes by saying.

If you’re looking for more summer shades, chalky blue is also trending this season.

A little lost when it comes to styling decor? Ashley Tisdale's tips are here to transform small spaces that are looking a little worse for wear. 

She certainly has a knack for interior design, sharing behind-the-scenes looks of her home on her social media accounts. The actress and singer recently revealed how she styles a credenza — a decorative cabinet unit used in living rooms, entryways, or dining rooms. And her advice is bang on trend, according to our interiors experts. 

See how to employ these interior design trends in tiny nooks and crannies around your apartment or small house.

Ashley Tisdale's tips for styling a credenza

From Ashley's marble kitchen island to her on-trend living room couch, the High School Musical star knows her stuff when it comes to modern decor.

In one of her latest Instagram posts, Ashley shared her tips for styling a credenza, which is a pretty handy piece of living room furniture for storing anything from books to blankets or electronics. While useful for storing things inside, the credenza top can look a little empty if lacking accessories.

To combat her space looking too clinical, Ashley has styled her warm, wooden credenza with coffee table books, candlesticks, and an impressive centerpiece. These calming textures and lived-in decor are some of the best living room trends for 2024, and interior designers agree.

Bree Steele, interior designer at RJ Living says, "The way Ashley mixes accessories, consistency in the color palette, and different shapes and textures align really well with different design aesthetics. The way she creates balance with her look makes the credenza look curated and personal, which is what heaps of people are looking for in their decor."

How to get the look

Ashley shared her tips on styling this space, avoiding any outdated living room trends that may backfire and make the room look out of style. 

Ashley advised followers to "accessorize with candles, vases, and coffee table books" to add some visual interest. Adding one of the best candles or a centerpiece such as this marble vase from Amazon (which is highly rated with over 500 reviews) will help break up the empty space.

"These items are really versatile and can easily be adjusted to fit any decor style. The specific suggestions of candles will add warmth and ambiance, vases will provide opportunities for introducing color and texture, and coffee table books will bring personality and sophistication," adds Bree. 

Ashley then advises to "stick to a consistent color palette" which can help make the area look more cohesive. Ashley's use of warm neutrals is a great example of a small living room trend for 2024. Try painting the surrounding area with Taupe 03 Soho Roc House Matt by Lick, which is a subtle shade with red and gray undertones. 

"A consistent color palette will make sure that the arrangement looks harmonious and well-thought-out. It helps tie the different elements together, creating a unified look that enhances the room's overall aesthetic," says Bree.

Lastly, Ashley says, "Don't be afraid to mix size, shapes, and textures," which is in line with this year's summer decor trends. 

"Mixing different sizes, shapes, and textures will help to add visual interest and will prevent the display from looking flat or monotonous. It will do this by creating a dynamic composition that draws the eye and keeps the arrangement engaging," says Bree.

If your credenza is still looking a little lifeless, adding some extra greenery with one of the best indoor plants can liven things up. This can also add some extra height to break up the visual line. "Make sure everything is balanced by varying the heights and sizes of the decor you include," adds Bree.

I'm a homes editor and in my experience, small space furniture needs to deliver on three things to make it a good buy: style, function, and competitive pricing.

Given that I spend 2000+ hours a year writing and editing homes articles, I know a good bargain when I see it and whilst you've been sleeping, I've spent hours fishing out the best Amazon furniture deals for compact homes.

I've carefully chosen 11 Amazon furniture deals to help you furnish your home (and tell you exactly why each one made my list). These all have great discounts, but if you do want to hold off for a bargain, you might want to find out when the next Amazon sale event is.

Amazon furniture deals you can't afford to miss

I won't be offended if you skip my picks and go straight to the deals you are most in need of, so here's a quick-list to get you there, fast. Otherwise, scroll for my knockout Amazon furniture picks worth nabbing while stocks last.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

• Amazon furniture deals
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• Amazon bedroom furniture deals
• Amazon chair deals
• Amazon outdoor furniture deals
• Amazon mirror deals

Amazon living room furniture deals

Amazon bedroom furniture deals

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Amazon chair deals

FAQs

What is Prime Day?

Amazon Prime Day is a sales event from the retailer which began as a thank you to its Prime members over a decade ago, offering flash discounts and deals only available to Prime members. 

Now, it is an annual event, and happens typically in July and again later in the year, offering exclusive sale prices to Prime members.

When is Amazon Prime Day?

The 2024 Prime Day was from July 16-17 and is available to Prime members and those on a 30-day free Prime trial, students aged 18-22, and Amazon Household members. The 2025 date has not been announced yet, but I'll be sure to update this page when it is announced.

Can you shop deals without Amazon Prime membership?

No, you can't. But there is a slight loophole. If you take advantage of the Amazon Prime free trial for 30 days, and you can enjoy the same deals and super-fast Prime delivery like fully-fledged members. Just remember to cancel your membership before the end of the trial so it doesn't automatically charge you. I have been a Prime member for 14 years and there isn't a year that goes by that I skip it.

I use my Prime membership weekly, and love the fast delivery, deals, easy returns and other benefits including Prime TV and its well worth the spend. I pay it annually for ease but you can set up a monthly payment to spread the cost.

For the US, Amazon Prime subscription costs are currently $14.99 a month, or an annual payment of $139, which will save you over $40 compared to the monthly subscription.

If you receive SNAP, Medicaid, or other qualifying government assistance, you can save more with Prime Access, too. You will need to provide a copy of the proof that you're in receipt in the process, so have that handy.

How we find Amazon Prime Deals

We have a few methods. First, we navigate to Amazon, and search various sections for the top deals, as well as Prime Day Deals, and then we compare those items to our own records of the latest prices, or as available on camelcamelcamel, a price checker to make sure deals are really good deals worth sharing. 

We also look specifically for items that we have tried and tested ourselves, as well as checking and reading hundreds, if not thousands of customer reviews during our collation of great bargains. We make a note of the good, the bad, the ugly, and apply our team's collective experience too of these items if we have them in our own homes, have tested them or had hands on experience of the product.

We compare and contrast materials, features, sustainability features, dimensions and any other distinguishing variants such as color and size.

We also add new deals in for items that we haven't tried and tested, but look like they have a great and comparable specification, using our ecommerce and appliance knowledge of the industry (for instance, the best single-serve coffee makers), and considered alongside the deal price, may make a recommendation.

If Amazon has labelled an item as Amazon's Choice, we pay attention to that as this is not a label retailers can buy. Amazon use lots of data including what customers search, versus what they buy, the most popular and highly rated items, availability and how likely customers are to return it, to give particular items the label. Number 1 bestsellers also carry weight for our decision-making, but we do make sure to offset these Amazon-given labels against customer reviews and our own knowledge of the retailers, brands, appliances, furniture and more.

We typically feature items that have a minimum of 4.5/5 star ratings from customers, though occasionally, we might feature great deals on items between 4 and 4.4 stars, especially if the bargain price makes it what we consider a wise or worthwhile purchase.

Amazon is a great place to purchase high-ticket items like furniture, as well as other decor pieces for around the house. I also love the huge range of Amazon rugs on the site, which come in a host of different styles. 

I've seen marble checkerboard flooring all over my Instagram feed at the moment and I have to say it's absolutely gorgeous. 

When it comes to zhuzhing up your home, you just can't beat a chic classic with a twist. So, I've asked interior designers why they're using it so much at the moment and how to bring it into your home. Fellow renters, get ready, as I've scoped out easy tips for you, too.

Some of the best interior design trends for the year are simply new takes on timeless favorites. This flooring trend is a fabulous example of this.

Why we love marvelous marble checkerboard flooring

This flooring trend will look great in all areas of the home, whether you're searching for entryway trends or bathroom trends. My designers have suggested tile ideas and decor tips throughout, which I've scoped out from trusted retailers, along with putting together marble checkerboard flooring picks I've got my eye on.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

Why marble checkerboard flooring is on trend

This pretty pattern that’s reminiscent of grand, Bridgerton-style design homes has now made its way into contemporary spaces.

“The resurgence of marble checkerboard flooring can be attributed to its ability to blend classic elegance with modern sensibilities, creating spaces that are both sophisticated and inviting,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

The repeating and alternating colors and patterns trace back centuries but are completely adaptable to modern tastes and styles. 

“Marble is the current design star for this pattern with its organic and naturalistic looks that offer an array of choices for veining and colors,” explains Alyssa Trautman, interior designer at FLOOR360.

“The surge in popularity for blending the two trends into marble checkerboard floors was inevitable since porcelain tiles are now widely available with realistic marble looks without maintenance hassles,” she adds.

You can also enjoy this look in a rental with peel and stick tiles, such as the FloorPops Marble Vinyl Tiles from Amazon that are water-resistant and washable.

I’ve seen people bringing playful personalities into their homes this year, and this quiet luxury flooring trend will allow you to do this in a sophisticated way.

“It brings a little bit of pattern and visual interest back into our homes, where they’ve otherwise been pretty plain and minimal, in recent years,” adds Rick Berres, design expert and owner of Honey-Doers.

He continues, “Think of it as the anti-Kardashian house, where everything is sparse and beige.” In contrast, Rick says this is opulent, bold, and contrasting, while still remaining tasteful.

How to bring marble checkerboard flooring into the home

The key to bringing in any design element is picking the right room that will make it shine.

“Its durability and low maintenance make it great for busy areas of the home like entryways, mudrooms, and kitchens,” explains Leigh Spicher, design expert and national director of design services at Ashton Woods Homes.

“One of my favorite entryway tiles is the classic black and white checkerboard tile because it adds a sense of regal elegance to any home,” she says.

“Go for a classic black and white horizontal installation or consider installing tiles in a diamond pattern and select alternating neutral color marble tiles like light gray and medium gray,” adds Alyssa. 

For those renting or unsure about permanent flooring changes, Nina suggests bringing marble checkered patterns in through rugs and runners. 

“This option provides the visual appeal of the design with the flexibility to change it out as desired,” she adds.

In terms of adding decor alongside it, Rick says that you can be bold and style it with anything because it will look good no matter what you do.

“You can keep going for a neutral theme if you want, but you can also add color such as through gold accents and this won’t look out of place,” he adds.

For example, you could use gold as kitchen lighting. I think the Hudson Valley Lighting Anniebee Pendant from Saks is beautiful, and love the fact it’s easy to install and maintain.

Or, you could make gold the star of the show by using a statement piece like the luxe Sydney Coffee Table from Banana Republic that’s textured and has a streamlined silhouette.

Shop marble checkerboard floor buys

Marble checkerboard flooring brings together timeless elegance and modern versatility beautifully.

“Whether used as a bold statement in a grand foyer or as a subtle accent in a cozy powder room, this flooring choice promises will add sophistication and charm,” Nina finishes by saying.

If you’re looking for more of this year’s trends to bring in and want to go for something more colorful, Amalficore is a playful choice also worth exploring.

Lily Allen’s design tip for creating a colorful living room that is sleek and well-styled is so smart and her advice is worth listening to, given that she lives in a famously beautiful and personalized home.

The Smile singer, whose home featured in Architectural Digest suggests picking a colorful rug first, before choosing anything else, in order to create a base color palette. I love this tip, so I've delved into everything you need to know about this design hack with interior pros and picked out highly-rated colorful rugs.

If you're collating living room ideas and don't know where to start, this trick from Lily Allen, whose stunning Brooklyn townhouse went deservedly viral, is totally worth copying.

Lily Allen's design tip is colorful and clever

When putting together living room paint color ideas, starting with a rug like Lily suggests will help keep the rest of your room cohesive.

As well as delving into why it's such a brilliant trick, I have put together a colorful rug edit with gorgeous and affordable picks from trusted retailers, to help you get the look.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Why we love Lily Allen's design tip

When listening to Miss Me? — Lily Allen’s podcast with Miquita Oliver — I couldn’t help clocking this genius color tip she suggested on it.

“The mistake people make is with color — it’s very hard to decide what color a room should be and then put a rug in at the end that’s going to match with everything,” Lily Allen shares.

She continues, “If you start with the rug, you can see what your color palette is and you start from there — that’s what I always do.”

When designing homes, achieving a cohesive and inviting space often hinges on the delicate balance of color, say interior experts.

“This strategy, though simple, can have a profound impact on the overall aesthetics and ambiance of your home,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

If the colors of your rugs and walls are in harmony, this can also create the illusion of a larger space. 

“This is particularly beneficial in smaller rooms or apartments, where a seamless color palette can make the area feel more open and airy,” Nina adds.

How to bring Lily Allen's design tip into your home

If you want to follow Lily Allen’s design tip in your own home, Nina has a couple of useful suggestions.

“Choose rugs with patterns that include your wall color and complementary hues,” she explains. “This approach adds texture and complexity without overwhelming the space.”

If your wall color is bold or vibrant, balancing it with a neutral-colored rug (the Seven Six Home Rug from Walmart is foldable and non-slip) can prevent the room from feeling too intense. 

“Conversely, if your walls are neutral, a rug in a matching neutral tone can create a sophisticated and understated look,” Nina suggests.

Once your rug and wall colors are harmonized, use accessories to enhance the theme.

Nina says, “Throw pillows, curtains, and artwork in coordinating colors can reinforce the palette and add layers to your design.”

One of my favorite places to get cheap wall art from is Desenio, and I have the Have a Seat Poster from Desenio in my basket to add to my living room wall. I love how colorful it is and the hand-drawn nature of the poster makes the art feel accessible and impactful without being overwhelming. The seating pun is also fun.

Colorful rug edit

Matching rug colors to your living room colors is a timeless design strategy that can transform your space.

“Whether you prefer a monochromatic scheme or a balanced blend of shades and patterns, this approach simplifies decorating and ensures a polished, put-together look,” Nina finishes by saying.

If you love colorful celeb-inspired home decor ideas, Lewis Hamilton’s living room is also filled with personality.

Lighting trends for the year are worth knowing if you want your home to dazzle your guests and to be well-lit at the same time.

I've asked interior designers about the lighting trends they're using this year and why they think they're going to be big in 2025. From statement lighting with nostalgic touches to natural and organic materials, there are so many different ones to choose from.

If you've used interior design trends for the year and want to finish off your look with eye-catching decor, reaching for stylish lighting is a fabulous idea.

Lovely lighting trends to try for 2025

These lighting styles will work in many rooms in the house, so whether you're looking for small living room trends or small kitchen trends, I've got you covered.

I've also curated highly-rated picks from trusted retailers throughout, in case you want to bring them into your own home.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Playful styles

Bringing personality into the home is one of the key small space trends for the year, with more people reaching for pieces they love for that dopamine decor effect.

“Unique pieces of lighting are at the forefront of 2024 trends,” explains Andrea Schumacher, interior designer and founder of Andrea Schumacher Interiors.

“For example, colored glass chandeliers are vibrant and eye-catching, perfect for adding a pop of color and elegance to any room,” she says.

You could also go for a cleverly-shaped chandelier, such as the Regina Andrew Coastal Living Ombré Wood Bead Chandelier from Saks.

She also suggests using disco ball-shaped lighting to bring a touch of fun and whimsy, transforming a room into a lively and vibrant space with a retro flair.

This is such a fun idea which I'm going to be replicating, so I've put the Meagoo Disco Ball from Amazon in my basket, which rotates and has 18 LED lights.

2. Natural materials

Natural materials are everywhere at the moment, with them working for everything from coastal grandmother interiors to wooden kitchen ideas.

“Sustainability and a connection to nature are significant trends in interior design, and lighting is no exception,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

“Fixtures made from natural materials like rattan, wood, bamboo, and linen are becoming increasingly popular,” she says. 

These materials bring warmth and texture into the living room, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

If you want to achieve a similar look to the picture above, the Dovecove Deantrei Rattan Floor Lamp from Wayfair is dimmable and has an antique-style bronze finish.

Or, go for a stone-style floor lamp instead for a more earthy feel, such as the Giulia Floor Lamp from Banana Republic.

3. Gold wall sconces

While bold and unique lighting is in vogue, classic wall sconces with a touch of gold continue to hold their ground and are a key lighting trend to look out for. 

“Classic wall sconces remain popular because of their timeless appeal and versatility,” Andrea explains.

“They are perfect for those who prefer a more understated elegance but still want their lighting to make an impact,” she says. 

Not only this, but Andrea says sconces effortlessly blend with various design styles, from traditional to modern, making them a staple in interior design.

4. Midimalism lighting

For those who prefer a sleek, modern aesthetic, midimalism lighting trend fixtures are a perfect choice. 

“Characterized by clean lines, exposed bulbs, and elegant forms, these designs add a little urban sophistication,” Nina explains. 

Make sure to choose metal finishes like black, brass, and copper in order to go for a characterful look that will blend into modern living spaces.

I'm into the Barclay Table Lamp from Pottery Barn, which has a beautiful copper base and has a white linen shade.

5. Layered lighting

Gone are the days of relying on a single overhead fixture — now, interior designers are choosing to bring together multiple lighting trends together at once.

Nina explains, “Layered lighting involves combining various light sources to create a dynamic and versatile living space.”

She adds this approach typically includes ambient lighting which provides overall illumination, task, lighting for activities, and accent lighting or highlighting artwork and decor (such as the Daybetter LED Lighting Strips from Amazon with over 20,000 five-star reviews).

The latest lighting trends all serve as brilliant inspiration, but it’s most important to find ones you resonate with and that match your home’s decor.

“By thoughtfully selecting and layering different types of lighting, you can create a home that’s beautifully illuminated,” Nina finishes by saying.

If your lighting focus is outdoors rather than indoors, patio lighting ideas are perfect for glowing up your backyard.

I didn't have Art Deco style on my trend bingo card this year, but I have been seeing glittering gold hues and jewel tones everywhere — and so have designers.

They've been bringing it into their clients' homes this year and are predicting that it's going to be everywhere in 2025. I've asked them why it's back again, how to decorate with it in the home, plus sought out highly-rated art deco picks from trusted retailers.

When it comes to designing your home with interior design trends for the year, reaching for ones with timeless appeal — like Art Deco — is always a good idea.

Art Deco style is back — and it's going to be huge in 2025

Whether you're looking for small space trends or are dressing for a bigger home, Art Deco is a classic style that suits so many different sized spaces.

As well as speaking to interior designers, I've curated an Art Deco style edit to help you start bringing it into your home ASAP.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

Why Art Deco is back on trend

If you don’t know what Art Deco is, don’t stress — it’s a really easy design trend to get your head around.

“Art Deco, with its roots in the 1920s and 1930s, is characterized by bold geometric patterns, lavish ornamentation, and rich colors,” says Elissa Hall, lead designer and founder of EDH Interiors.

“Its resurgence can be attributed to a collective yearning for opulence and glamour, particularly after periods of minimalism,” she adds.

For example, greige is one of the outdated paint colors designers aren’t using anymore — instead, they’re choosing to go with interior paint color trends that are richer.

As well as this, one of the key trends for this year is showcasing your own style in the home.

“As people seek to infuse their spaces with personality and a sense of history, Art Deco's timeless elegance and versatility offer the perfect solution,” Elissa adds.

The historic element of it is another reason why people want to bring it into their homes.

“In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, many are finding comfort in the nostalgic allure, which art deco very much represents,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

It’s gorgeous, glamorous, and great for making a small space look luxe — even if you’re on a budget.

How to bring Art Deco style into your home

If you’re looking to embrace the Art Deco style, Elissa recommends starting with statement pieces such as a geometric rug or bold, patterned wallpaper ideas. 

“These elements can serve as focal points, setting the tone for the entire room,” she says.

Nina agrees, adding, “Search for repeating shapes such as chevrons, zigzags, and sunbursts to add visual interest and a sense of rhythm to your interiors.”

I like the look of the Willa Arlo Weinert Geometric Double Roll from Wayfair, and think the gold metallic accents will brighten up any small space.

From here, you can really play with sumptuous materials and textures.

“Opt for pieces that combine velvet and metallic textures, like a velvet armchair with brass detailing or a mirrored side table with chrome legs,” Nina says. 

The interplay of different materials will create a rich, layered aesthetic — for example, the Aukfa Velvet Futon Convertible Sofa Bed from Walmart would make a gorgeous focal point, comes in five different colors, and is easy to assemble.

“Additionally, incorporating gold or chrome light fixtures and mirrors can add a layer of glamour and reflectivity, enhancing the overall ambiance,” Elissa adds.

Don't be afraid to go bold with this, such as with a statement light like the Aryn Pendant from Banana Republic Home that comes in two different sizes.

Finish the whole look with decorative items like sculptures, vases, and artwork that feature bold lines and symmetrical designs.

This will tie together the whole room, creating an Art Deco-style space that Gatsby would be proud of.

Art Deco style edit

The revival of Art Deco in interior design showcases just how timeless it is, and I can’t wait to see it dominate in 2025.

“It’s a compelling choice for those looking to infuse their homes with nostalgia, glamor, and sophistication,” Nina finishes by saying.

If you’re looking for other trends to try this year, Amalficore is a brand new one that’s the style of the summer.

You might want to learn how to microcement over tiles if you want to give your kitchen or bathroom a modern makeover.

I've asked interior designers for their top tips on microcementing over tiles, and it turns out it is super easy, but preparation and careful application are key. The gorgeous result will make the extra time taken totally worth it.

If you're looking for DIY projects you can do at home for an impactful result, microcementing your tiles could be worth trying.

How to microcement over tiles

If you're looking for brilliant ways to use microcement in your home, going over your tiles is a fabulous way to add sophistication when making over your space.

The interior designers I've talked to about it have recommended useful products to help you do this. Wherever possible, I've curated highly-rated buys from trusted retailers. I've also put together a microcementing essentials kit, in case you want to get started ASAP.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

Step one: Prepare the area meticulously

Make sure the space is as prepared as it can be. Microcementing is a commitment — once you start cementing, there isn’t any going back so having a good base to work from will bolster results.

“It’s a good idea to ensure the existing tiles are intact, thoroughly clean, and grease-free,” says Nick Chatzigeorgakis, interior designer at Intrabuild. “Loose tiles should be re-secured or replaced, and a thorough scrub with a heavy-duty degreaser [such as the highly-rated Heavy Duty Citrus Degreaser Cleaner Concentrate from small biz DU-MORE is available on Amazon] is essential to remove any dirt or residual substances."

Once cleaned, Nick recommends applying a bonding primer tailored for microcement, such as the Mapei Eco Prim Grip from Amazon. It enhances adhesion and is mildew resistant which is handy for high-humidity areas such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Step two: Apply the base coat

From here, you can apply the microcement to your tiles, starting with an initial base coat and letting that dry completely.

“I recommend applying the first coat using a trowel,” says Priyanshi Jain, interior designer and founder of Pixels & Spaces. “This layer should not be perfect, but should cover all the tiles initially.”

Good-quality trowels don’t need to be expensive — for example, the Canshen Stainless Steel Cement Trowel from Amazon is under $20, comes with a finishing tool, and is made from rust-resistant stainless steel.

It’s also a good idea to keep tools clean throughout the process. 

“A bucket of water and a sponge should be used continually to prevent the microcement from hardening on the tools,” Nick adds.

Step three: Add the finishing coats

Once you’ve got your base down, you can carry on adding cement over your tiles for a sleek and polished look.

“Apply one or two more thin layers of micro cement to make sure each layer is smooth and free of any trowel marks,” says Priyanshi.

She says that each layer should be thinner than the last, and to take extra care with each one to make sure you create a smooth finish.

“Lightly sand using fine-grit sandpaper between the coats if necessary to get rid of any imperfections, and be gentle to avoid creating any grooves on the surface,” she adds.

You can just use plain sheets to do this, such as the 3M Aluminum Oxide Sandpaper from Walmart. It can be cut to your preferred size and is made from aluminum oxide mineral, which is great for sanding wood, painted surfaces and metal.

Step four: Apply sealant

Once you’ve applied your cement coats, you''ll need a sealant on top.

Nick explains, “For finishing, use a high-quality sealant such as polyurethane or epoxy. Apply at least two coats to ensure protection against stains and moisture, which prolongs the lifespan of the microcement.”

He says that this sealing step not only secures the surface, but also gives it a polished look.

If you’ve microcemented over tiles in your home, you’ll want to find one that’s fast drying, such as the Varathane Water-Based Ultimate Polyurethane from Amazon that comes in a variety of finishes and is scratch-resistant.

Step five: Leave to dry

So, you’ve learned how to microcement over tiles — yay! Now all there’s left to do is leave your microcement to dry.

“Make sure the space is well-ventilated to aid drying times and reduce fume inhalation,” Nick suggests.

If you’ve incorporated this into your kitchen ideas, open windows and turn on your range hood. Similarly, if you’ve used this in your bathroom ideas, switch on the extractor fan.

Microcementing essentials kit

Learning how to microcement over tiles is so easy that you’ll want to carry on doing it around the rest of your house.

“From my experience, these detailed steps ensure a durable and visually appealing microcement finish over existing tiles,” Nick finishes by saying.

Finished with tiles and want to move onto your kitchen counters? Learning how to microcement kitchen worktops may also come in useful.

Finding ways to use microcement in the home is relatively new, but you can expect to see it everywhere pretty soon, on walls, in shower enclosures, and even on kitchen cabinets.

We've found some of the best microcement home projects we've seen around from those that have resulted in the complete transformation of an entire room, to smaller-scale examples that still pack a serious style punch.

One of the best things about it is how useable it is – you can even use it for microcementing kitchen cabinets, for example. With little guidance and practice, most enthusiastic and willing homeowners should have no trouble getting to grips with it.

Our favorite ways to use microcement

First things first, what exactly is microcement? If you're planning on using micocement on kitchen worktops or other surfaces, you'll need to get in the know.

"Microcement, also known as micro-topping or micro-concrete, is a trendy decorative coating composed of cement and polymers," explains DIY and home interiors writer Claire Douglas. 

"Microcement is a decorative coating made of cement, water-based resins, additives, and mineral pigments that may be applied to a variety of vertical and horizontal surfaces," explains Matthew Drake, founder of The Decora Company. 

"This building material stands out because it can be layered directly over a variety of materials, including plaster, marble, terrazzo, floor tiles, and plasterboard. A quick refurbishment of spaces is possible with little effort and a thickness of only 3mm." 

Microcement can often be bought as a kit, containing everything you need for a particular project, but it is also possible to buy it in separate bags which are brilliant for bigger projects. 

1. Microcement vase

Let's start small and achievable with a DIY vase – this is a great project to help you get started using microcement. 

"After finishing my most recent project, I had a bit of microcement left over, so I started experimenting to see if I could make some pots with the rest of the kit and some old cloth napkins," explains Claire. "You can improvise a lot with this DIY project – just use any fabric you have going spare."

Claire used a microcement kit for the job and you will also need a vase or pot to use as a mold, as well as fabric. Before beginning, cover your chosen object with plastic wrap to protect it. We love the shape of the CYS EXCEL Clear Glass 3D Flower with Ruffle Rim from Amazon. 

Having mixed up your microcement, according to the manufacturer's instructions, soak your cloth in the mixture and then place it over your chosen object, smoothing and folding it as you go until you are happy with the effect. 

"Using a paintbrush, layer up more of the microcement mixture onto the neatly arranged fabric," explains Claire.

Once the first coat is dry, you should apply a layer of primer then start on your second coat of microcement. When this next layer is fully dry you can carefully slip the object you used as a mold out, before layering more microcement onto the inside of your new vessel. 

Finally, you can either leave your new creation in its organic state or paint it in a shade of your choice. 

2. Kitchen countertop

While you might not feel confident microcementing kitchen countertops, it can result in some stunning effects. 

Maybe you have a tired-looking tile counter surface and have been looking into painting countertops, or perhaps you have had a go at building a breakfast bar or island yourself and are wondering how to finish it off – whatever you are starting with, microcement is a brilliant way to finish it, plus it can be layered up to hide all kinds of joins.

You will need to prime your surface first using a specialist microcement primer and a foam roller. This will help with adhesion. Next, make up your microcement before pouring it onto your countertop and smoothing it out. Most kits will come complete with smoothing and finishing tools, but if you are not using a kit, try ROMAN’s Wallpaper Smoothing Tool from Amazon which would do the job well.  

"It's better to apply the microcement from the top down, that way if you get any drips or spillages they won't fall onto areas you've already perfected," advises Claire Douglas who carried out this project herself. "Microcementing can get quite messy, so I recommend covering the floor with cardboard or sheets."

It looks best if you continue your microcement finish down the sides of your counter too, but make sure the top and sides are dry before you attempt to finish off the smaller, more fiddly, front edge of the counter. 

A second coat will be required before you sand the whole thing and neaten up the edges. Finally, be sure to seal your finished surface so that it is stain-resistant.

3. A luxurious shower enclosure

There are many beautiful ways of finishing off a shower enclosure that goes beyond shower tile ideas or waterproof panels – but microcementing a shower can really add warmth and texture that can be hard to achieve with other materials. 

You should be aware that it can be hard for DIYers to get as perfect a finish on the walls as the pros. Like plastering, this is a job that takes practice and skill. That said, if you are happy with something a little more rustic, then this is a project worth having a go at. 

"If you are applying microcement to a wet area, it’s essential that you properly waterproof the space first to avoid any issues down the line," advises Kellie Reidy, author of January Revival Home Renovation + Interior Styling,  who renovated her bathroom, including the showering area, in microcement. "Pay particular attention to any corners and joins, as these are the most common places for leaks.

"We chose to use a gray waterproofing agent to reduce the chance of it altering the color of our microcement," continues Kellie. "We recommend you avoid using any silicone-based gap fillers, as the primer may not stick."

"Once you have completed your waterproofing, you will need to apply a coat of high-quality white paint primer to all surfaces you plan to coat with microcement." Try INSL-X Stix Acrylic Waterborne Bonding Primer from Amazon.

Just as when microcementing any surface, there are a number of options when it comes to the types of products you can use. Most DIYers find that kits containing all the necessary materials and tools offer the easiest route. In the case of shower enclosures, there are many designed specifically for wet areas that will result in a completely waterproof finish.

4. Boring shelf upgrade

Microcement is a brilliant way to totally transform both standard fixtures and fittings, such as off-the-shelf pieces of furniture, as well as to upcycle old items in need of sprucing up.

If you are after some unique kitchen storage ideas, consider buying plain wall shelves and giving them a total makeover with microcement. 

Stylist Claire Douglas did just that with a set of MOSSLANDA IKEA shelves, using them to create a one-off coffee station in her kitchen.

"As usual, this was a project being completed on a shoestring budget," says Claire. "I’m a huge fan of the texture and depth that microcement adds to a surface and regularly incorporate it into my interior schemes. 

"I primed the surface using the primer included in the microcement kit and a roller before applying the first layer of mixed microcement thinly with my skimming spreader. I applied two layers of microcement (priming in between) on both the shelves and the wall behind as well as the sides of the nook (the adjacent cabinets). I didn't sand at all as I wanted the texture, but you could sand to make a smooth finish if you wish. You should seal the microcement because it is porous until this point and can absorb dirt and moisture."

5. Finish off boxing out

Wondering how to finish off the stud work housing the plumbing for your wall-hung toilet or bathroom sink or for modern small bathroom ideas to help make a space feel bigger? Microcement could just be the thing you are after.

This minimalist bathroom, by Southern Home Interiors, has a beautifully cohesive look thanks to the fresh pale grey microcement finish that has been used for the walls, stud work, and bathroom sink. 

If you are worried about an entire microcement finish looking too clinical, include warmer elements such as rich timber finishes and brushed brass or bronze, as has been done here. 

The HOMLUX Bath Hardware Set from Target features a towel bar, toilet paper holder, and towel ring and comes in a beautiful brass finish.

6. Housing for appliances

Looking for an alternative to kitchen cabinetry to house your appliances? This is one of those small kitchen upgrades that will have a big impact and lend an individual finish to your kitchen, plus it is great for anyone trying to keep costs down. 

Claire opted to build her freestanding refrigerator into a microcement-finished unit she constructed herself and the results are stunning. She built a timber frame big enough to take the appliance, before cladding it in MDF.

"I glued the edges where the MDF sheets met to ensure that no moisture would be able to get in and cause the frame to separate later on," explains Claire. "I also did this where there were any joins or imperfections in the frame.

"Once the glue had dried, I sanded it lightly to ensure the surface was smooth, then primed the whole unit." It would be worth investing in a pack of sanding sheets of various grits, such as the 3M Aluminum Oxide Sandpaper from Amazon.

Claire then applied two coats of microcement – leaving 24 hours between coats – using the spreader that had been recommended by the manufacturer.

7. Homemade planter

This DIY alternative planter idea project would make the ideal gift, although you may well be tempted to keep it yourself once you see the results. 

You first need to find a planter, pot or bowl that you love the shape of and it is a good idea to first apply a waterproof membrane before microcementing. 

"If you have some already, it’s worth taking a few minutes to apply it, but it’s on the pricey side so I don’t think I’d buy it just for this project," advises DIY expert Jenna LeBlanc, of Jenna Sue Design Co. who completed the above project. 

If you are using a powdered microcement, you want to mix in water until you have a consistency a little like pancake batter – this will allow you to brush it onto your planter easily.

"Untinted microcement dries off-white, and I wanted a light gray cement color, so I mixed in a splash of blank latex paint," explains Jenna. "I used a large masonry brush to apply it (which I later realized was overkill). The microcement went on easily, but it didn’t cover completely with such a large brush. After a couple of hours, the planter was dry enough for a second coat. This time, I used a small chip brush and it worked so much better!" Try the Project Source 2-in Natural Bristle Flat Paint Brush from Lowes.

In some cases, two coats will be enough, but you might find you need three depending on the consistency of your mix. Once dry, give the pot a light sand and paint or limewash, according to the look you are after.

8. Feature wall

One of the quickest ways to update any decor scheme or to add character and individuality to a bland new space is to utilize some creative feature wall ideas.  

There are lots of different ways you can do this. Some people simply choose to give one wall a new lick of paint, opting for a bold color that sits in contrast to the rest of the scheme. Other homeowners wallpaper one wall using a strong pattern or a mural design.

If you are on the lookout for something a little different, however, finishing off one wall with microcement will give you an instant focal point that will be full of texture and interest. 

The wall here has been given a coating of the micro-cement system Continuo, available from The Decora Company.

"Generally this is a five-layer system that we sell as a kit," explains Matthew Drake. "This includes primer, two coats of the decorative micro-cement, and two coats of a polyurethane clear coat. The micro-cement and the clear coat both come as A/B components where the B component is mixed in as the hardener. Generally, the microcement system can be used anywhere indoors."

9. Easy backsplash

Stuck for affordable and stylish kitchen backsplash ideas? While tile, metal sheets, glass, and even vinyl wallpaper are all interesting options, it really is worthwhile taking note of what DIYers up and down the country are doing right now to give their kitchens an ultra-unique look by microcementing backsplashes.

In order to tie all the elements of her kitchen together, Claire Douglas chose not only to finish her countertops using microcement but took things a step further by using it for her backsplash as well as the ledge that protruded out from the wall. 

Soften the finished look off with wooden kitchen accessories such as this beautiful  Architec Sheesham Wood Gourmet Cutting Board from Walmart.

10. Outdoor furniture

If you have some patio furniture that has seen better days, microcementing it could just transform your set — and this is a perfect way to make a patio look expensive on a budget. 

You need to ensure that the microcementing kit you buy for the task is suitable for exterior use as this will mean it is weatherproof and UV-stable. Most suppliers will recommend that you finish your microcement off with a PU coating – check whether this is included in any kits you buy as you may need to purchase it separately. 

You also need to be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions really carefully as this is a project that is going to need to be particularly durable if you want it to stand the test of time. 

For a nice smooth finish, use a concrete finishing tool like the MARSHALLTOWN Cast Magnesium Hand Float Amazon.

DIY microcementing essentials

Microcement is a great material for bathroom makeovers, as well as for lots of easy DIY projects. Consider using it alongside other small budget bathroom ideas for a total transformation that won't cost the earth. 

Jeremy Allen White's mirrors have officially inspired me to change up my wall decor game and go for a quirky, eclectic vibe.

The star of cooking comedy-drama The Bear has proven he can serve up sizzling home decor style just as well as he can delicious dishes. I've asked interior designers why his mirror set-up works so well, plus picked matching mirrors that I'm eyeing up to achieve a similar look.

His mirrors are retro-style, one of the biggest interior design trends this year. I like the fact they match this but are elegant, ageless, and the style is easy to replicate at home.

Why we're loving Jeremy Allen White's mirrors

Even though they’re simple to the eye, Jeremy Allen White’s mirrors have bags of character and charm.

“This smart and sleek mirror set is not just an ordinary square or circle — instead, the retro design is a bit asymmetrical and adds repetition and interest to the space,” explains Angela Rennie, interior designer and founder of Angela Rennie Design.

“The simple dark brown, wooden frames allow our eye to focus on the subject and get a glimpse into how the room is decorated,” she adds.

It’s not just mirror styles that stand out here — it’s how they’re placed onto the wall, too.

“The mirrors, available in an array of sizes, are thoughtfully arranged on the wall in a manner reminiscent of a curated gallery,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

She says this not only adds visual interest but also creates a harmonious blend of modern and vintage aesthetics. 

Nina continues, “The reflective surfaces enhance the serene, neutral interior, showcasing the meticulous design of the surrounding space.”

As well as this, Nina loves the interplay of the rich wood tones and the mirrors' metallic reflections, which she says create a striking contrast and a sense of understated luxury.

How to recreate the look at home

The beauty of Jeremy Allen White’s mirror wall art is its simplicity, which means you can keep things uncomplicated when trying the look in your home. 

“Mirrors are fabulous for making a small space appear larger in the way they bounce light back into the space and create the illusion of a bigger space,” Angela explains.  “A tip for creating this vignette in your home is to shop at Target or Home Goods  (such as mirrors from TJ Maxx) where you don't have to spend a fortune."

For example, the Olivia & May Wall Mirror Set from Target comes in at just under $120 for three mirrors, are made from solid iron, and are easy to wipe clean.

“But, mirrors don't necessarily have to come in a set — you can create your own set by buying in odd numbers, such as three or five,” Angela adds.

You can also switch up the frame styles, as long as there’s a unifying element such as the same color or metal finish.

“Also, be sure to try and buy various sizes, small, medium, and large, so that there is a variety,” she suggests.

Shop our Jeremy Allen White mirror edit

Want to bring the star's marvelous mirror style into your own home? These picks will help you do just that.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

Jeremy Allen White’s mirrors are more than just functional objects — they add an artistic flair to his home.

“By bringing Jeremy’s mirror styling technique into your own home, you can add refinement in a way that will make any space feel timeless,” Nina finishes by saying.

If you’re looking for more stylish celeb home inspiration, Lewis Hamilton’s living room is colorful and chic.

I have been looking for retro lampshades and swooning over the gorgeous selections as I curated this shopping edit. This decor item is such a great way to add color and pattern to a room quickly and bang on trend, too, with retro vibes riding high this year.

As a shopping editor, I've spent hours looking through trusted retailer sites to find retro-looking lampshades with personality, rated highly by customers who reviewed their purchases. Florals, bright colors, and hints of gold were a strong theme. I've also asked interior designers why retro lampshades are trending and how to style them in your home.

Vintage-style decor is one of the hottest interior design trends for the year. If you're into this as much as I am, upgrading your lighting style with retro lampshades are a brilliant place to start.

Don't miss these gorgeous retro lampshades

Bringing small space trends into your home is easy to do with smaller decorative pieces such as lampshades.

“Retro lampshades are popular right now because they bring a sense of nostalgia and warmth to a space,” explains Pam Hutter, interior designer and principal at Hutter Architects. “They are an excellent choice for homes looking to blend vintage charm with modern comfort.”

I've looked through trusted retailer sites to find beautiful, highly-rated picks that I think will look amazing in so many homes.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

Shop beautiful retro lampshades

Why retro lampshades are popular

Even though retro lampshades nod to the past, that doesn’t mean they aren’t a timeless piece of decor. 

“These were popular back in the 80s, but you can still use them in your homes today because of how versatile they are,” says Brian Curran, interior designer and founder of Drafting Services.

“Personally, my favorite patterns on retro lamps are geometric ones, because they look clean, the symmetry adds a layer of beauty and depth and the textured shades also add another layer of uniqueness to it,” he explains.

For anyone adding retro lamp shades to their homes, Brian recommends taking full advantage and going for bold colors to add a splash of brightness to an otherwise boring canvas of the house. 

“Bright-colored lampshades match great with a neutral palette living room along with some textured mats and unique statement pieces as decor,” he adds.

With bold geometric patterns, earthy tones, and playful florals, there are so many different retro lampshade styles that will make a statement in a room.

“Whether it's a mid-century modern living area or a contemporary bedroom, these patterns and colors can complement a range of interior designs, creating a harmonious blend between the old and the new,” Pam finishes by saying.

Once you’ve got your indoor lights sorted, you might want to consider switching up your backyard lights too, such as with dreamy outdoor lanterns.

If you hate your kitchen counters and wondering which is the better budget fix, wrapping with adhesive contact paper or painting them, then I can help.

I’ve done both in the last two years and the one I chose to do first — painting my kitchen counters — didn’t have longevity so I gave wrapping my counters a go next. In this comparative guide, I explain why I tried these two kitchen counter makeover techniques, what I loved and loathed about each, my top tips, product recommendations and which method came out on top (spoiler: it was wrapping).

I tackled the countertops in my newly-built home, hoping this budget-friendly small kitchen upgrade would make the space feel more 'me', and the good news is that the process was transformative and I have zero regrets about giving both a go!

Wrapping kitchen counters vs painting 

I suppose any DIY project in this space might be prone to kitchen DIY mistakes but luckily, both these techniques for giving your kitchen countertops a makeover are pretty straightforward and low-risk. You just have to do the correct prep first to ensure the surface is grime and dust free for wrapping, sanded for painting and you have all the kit you need to get the job done.

And, if you're renting, check permission to alter counters by sanding and painting before cracking on to avoid fines.

Where my DIY expert or I have recommended products in this article, I have curated highly-rated products from trusted retailers to help you shop the techniques.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

Why I needed to makeover my kitchen counters

My newly-built home was beautifully bright, filled with natural light in every room, and flowed from one space to the next in a lovely, welcoming way. Wide doorways, modern kitchen flooring and so much light in each room made it an easy buy for us.

But we bought it 'as seen', and therefore had no hand in choosing the kitchen  cabinets or colors for kitchen flooring. As a result, the construction team went for budget, neutral fixtures throughout.

It was all brilliant white walls, no ceiling molding (which is a beautiful ceiling idea, by the way), dark gray-blue hard-wearing low-pile carpet, gray vinyl flooring in the open plan kitchen-diner and bathrooms. In tandem with it being so newly-built, there were no nooks and crannies to give it structural character.

It had been built with very dark gray kitchen counters that not only looked cheap, but had a weird dimpled texture that made it hard to clean, and, as I initially thought, would be hard to wrap with adhesive contact paper.

Why I didn't get new kitchen counters

From the moment we got the keys, I wanted to rip out those counters. We got some way down the line design-wise and had a new kitchen designed and ordered with matte deep blue cabinets, a stacked tower double oven, a white butler’s sink, white marble veined counters and back-splashes to match.

One thing got in the way: being repeatedly let down by the installers. After three failed attempts to have it fitted we gave up on our kitchen supplier and put the project on ice. After eight months of back and forth and no new kitchen, I canned the project and decided to DIY as many kitchen makeover elements as I could, when I could, until one day, we buy our forever home and spend our new-kitchen money there.

I am disabled and have chronic pain so any DIY projects usually take me quite a while, as I chip away at the project piece by piece, a few minutes at a time, until it’s done. I started by replacing the kitchen cabinet pulls with brushed brass, straight hardware and they gave the space an instant face-lift while I decided on what to do about the kitchen counters.

I live in the UK and bought mine from Amazon. This 30-pack of Brushed Brass Kitchen Cabinet Pulls from Amazon are identical and highly-rated by happy shoppers. It instantly brightened up my space.

My options for a kitchen counter makeover

After ruling out a kitchen counter custom cover that slots over the existing one because of cost, I considered ways to cover kitchen counters including resin, painting, micro cementing, and learning how to DIY counter tops with adhesive contact paper. 

I loved the idea of resin as it would even out the weird dimpled texture of our counters and let me go all out on the color and even adding shimmer or glitter (kits like the Giani Granite Paint Glitter Top Coat on Amazon is highly-rated by buyers), but after looking at videos I realized I did not have the energy or time to commit to a more complex makeover. 

The same went for the micro cementing. As beautiful the result looked, with two cats prone to pinging up onto the counters, a young child, a busy household and a rather broken body, I couldn’t commit time, skill and physical effort needed.

I did like the variety of contact paper on offer, but worried it would not stick to the dimpled texture of our counters.

I settled therefore on painting our kitchen countertops. But, within a few months after painting them, it was flaking so badly in high traffic or humid areas (near the stove, where we did the majority of our chopping, prepping and meal making, plus around the sink) that I had to wrap them anyway.

What I loved about painting my kitchen counters

Before I totally poo-poo painting your kitchen counters, there was some stuff I liked for sure.

I went with a brilliant white counter paint and protective top coat to lock in the brightness and make it durable for this hardworking heart of the home. I figured I’d paint the walls any color I wanted at some point but didn’t know what color I wanted so keeping the counters neutral would be a wise choice, I reckoned. 

It looked beautiful and was so satisfying to paint with a small paint roller. My husband and daughter both helped as I can’t stand up for long and between the three of us, it was cleaned with sugar soap (we made up a batch using a concentrate, such as the Ever Build Sugar Soap 500ml Concentrate available on Amazon, sanded counters by hand, painted and sealed all in one busy Saturday.

The counters were touch dry within two hours and could be used, cleaned or tolerate spills within 24 hours, just in time for our Sunday lunch guests.

It took quite a few days for me to finish sealing the edges where the up stand met the counter with waterproof white sealant (I used two small hand squeezed bottles of the Gorilla Waterproof Caulk and Sealant from Amazon for 22 feet of counters) but it was worth it as it looked so fresh. 

Whilst our home was newly-built, it had stood empty for 18 months post-construction so the previous sealant had gone a bit yellow and wasn't one you could simply paint over. We learned that the hard way when my husband insisted on painting over it and within two hours it has separated or flaked off!

What I hated about painting my kitchen counters

The chipping... oh the chipping! It was so bad, after a few months, the area around the sink had areas as wide as three-inches where the paint had completely peeled off. It was not durable in the slightest. I live in the UK so I used the Homebase Maison Deco Refresh white paint, base and top coat for the job based on its price point matching my budget. We followed all instructions to the letter but it simply wasn't durable.

While I can't speak to the quality of similar kits from The Home Depot, such as the Beyond Paint Multisurface Refinishing Paint, it does come highly-rated by over 2500 customers which is helpful. 

I didn't pay close enough attention to the star-rating of my chosen product, which was low (2.5) and I should have. I'd been paying more attention to the cost in all honesty. Whilst our kitchen is relatively small, I had more than 22 feet of countertops at a depth of two feet to cover and that cost quickly added up. 

My tip to you is buy the best quality paint or contact paper possible with your budget, and pay close attention to customer reviews. 

What I loved about wrapping my kitchen counters

So when big patches of the counter paint peeled off near the sink, and despite using white counter protector mats such as the Winco Heavy Duty Plastic Cutting Boards from Amazon to keep direct contact with the countertops at a minimum, it was all speckled where little chunks of the paint had peeled off.

I decided to take the plunge, and bought some cheap white contact paper from Temu. I usually eschew fast fashion and home brands wherever possible but I wanted to see if it would stick first to the dimpled texture of my counters before splurging my cash. It did stuck, but the lack of pattern on the paper, and how desperately thin it was made it look crinkled, wrinkled and dimpled no matter how much I worked to push out the air bubbles.

I even had this nifty little wallpaper tool kit from Amazon for the job, which turned out to be amazing, but not even that could fix the cheapness of my first batch of adhesive kitchen counter paper.

In the end, decided to go for a light wood grain look instead of a plain one, and bought mine in store, instead of online so I could feel the thickness and see the quality for myself. 

As I live in the UK, I bought the Homebase Fablon Sticky Back Plastic in Light Spruce and it was spectacular. If you like the look of mine, you can buy a similar, highly-rated item such as the Con-Tact Self Adhesive Oak Contact Paper from The Home Depot, or check out Wayfair's selection including the HomLPope Granite Look Waterproof Contact Paper. 

The latter doesn't have any reviews yet, but the HomlPope brand on Wayfair is rated 4.3 stars across a range of homeware so we reckon it's quality should be worth a punt.

Mine ended up being thick, easy cut and both easy to stick, and easy to peel off without residue. I covered all counters in just one afternoon and folded down the corners neatly and they've stayed tucked away without any lifting.

There were no bubbles or dimples during application either, and it looked fantastic. No drying time was needed and with a few rolls, needed and some coming spare, it was economical. 

So far, it's had many months of heavy use and apart from a tiny couple of tears from sharp objects clattering badly onto the most-used kitchen counter, it's holding up really well, especially around the humid and wetter areas.

The wood look has also warmed up my white kitchen and influenced my other decor choices into the dining area, including a new wooden extending dining table and these complementary pink subway peel and stick tiling from Amazon for the walls. They're easy to cut around outlets and awkward corners and can be wiped clean without lifting.

What I hated about wrapping my kitchen counters

The area around the sink was tricky to do with one piece of adhesive wrap and took two people. The fix would have been to stop being so perfectionist about it and do it in multiple pieces but that's not in my nature and I also didn't want to allow more seams than absolutely essential that would let water in. I managed to clear the sink by about 10-15 inches each side with one piece of contact paper and the durability as a result has been great.

However, I didn't having to slightly overlap the contact paper to avoid gaps in some areas when applying the adhesive sheets, which much like wallpapering well around awkward bits. Plus, my counters are deep so I had to choose either to wrap in small widths, going from front to back, or going in longer stretches of counter, left to right. 

My wooden design meant it wasn't possible to line up the wood grain look where one length ended, and another began. The good news is, while I might be able to spot these little niggles, honestly, you can't tell when you're not up close. And, the reality is: who are you going to invite over to your home who would be mean enough to say something about your kitchen counter DIY effort?  

The only other other negative is I can't use bleach on the counters anymore and when I'm cleaning post raw-meat handling, I am super paranoid about germs. Still, I use a good antibacterial spray such as Lysol's Lemon All Purpose Disinfectant Spray from Target and do a second final clean with a hot, soapy sponge does the job.

The overall winner for making over my kitchen counters

A million times over, I would choose wrapping my kitchen counters over painting them. It looks beautiful, has a lovely finish, is proving durable, is easy to clean and will be easy to remove if I want to redo it with another look later down the line.

Since you're in the mood for kitchen DIY, delve into our guides on laying your own laminate flooring, painting your cabinets, and definitely consider adding a fluted panel to your kitchen cabinets as it looks gorgeous and can be DIY-ed in a weekend.

There are so many summer color trends that are sizzling and stylish this year, and I'm in love with all of them.

I've asked interior designers and color experts for the shades their clients keep asking for, and what they themselves are reaching for they've been reaching for. From cozy cornflower blue to sweet, laid back yellow, there are plenty of shades that will help you bring character and chicness in.

Finding out the latest interior design color trends is always useful, whether you want to refresh your home for the season or just want to switch your shades up in a new way.

Stunning summer color trends

All these colors are suitable for those looking for small space color trends, as well as for people with larger homes.

Our designers and color experts have recommended specific shades throughout, which we have sought out matching highly-rated buys wherever possible.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Muted yellow

Sunshine yellow’s sophisticated older sister, muted yellow is the star of the show this summer. 

“Yellow always adds vibrancy, but I’ve really loved incorporating this color in muted tones to create a more polished finish,” explains Priyanshi Jain, interior designer and founder of Pixels & Spaces.

If you’re looking for a specific shade, Glidden’s Color of the Year is a gorgeous example of this. 

“Containing both the power of a primary color and the essence of a neutral, Limitless is a fresh, warm hue that’s the perfect on-trend color for summer,” says Ashley McCollum, Glidden’s color expert.

I think that muted yellow would also look beautiful paired with crisp white bed sheets or a cream couch, such as with the Bourina Herringbone Blanket from Amazon, which has a smooth finish, is versatile, and is easy to care for.

2. Cornflower blue

Blue has to be one of the most versatile colors out there, so even though it’s a summer color trend, you can commit to it and be rest assured it’ll stand the test of time.

“Without a doubt, a standout this summer is the use of blue,” explains Andrea Schumacher, interior designer and founder of Andrea Schumacher Interiors. “It’s favored for its calming and cooling properties, making it an ideal choice for creating serene environments.”

I have seen cornflower blue everywhere this season, which I’m thrilled about as it's one of my favorite colors full stop. 

I’m also currently scoping out non-stick pans, so I’ve got the Beautiful Hero Pan from Walmart in my basket, which is from Drew Barrymore’s popular range and is made from durable aluminum.

3. Terracotta

This Mediterranean shade is a summer color trend and has been one of the interior design trends for this year that hasn’t gone anywhere so far.

“Terracotta is so on trend and blends effortlessly with natural elements like wood and stone,” says Priyanshi. “Color your walls or accessorize your home with this color and bring a sense of Southwest charm,” she suggests.

I like the idea of bringing this in with indoor plants, such as the Bergs Fluted Pot from Anthropologie which is handcrafted in Italy and includes a drainage hole.

It’s also one of the key shades for bringing in Amalficore, which we’ve crowned the design aesthetic of the summer. Our editor Punteha van Terheyden also painted her home office walls and ceilings with terracotta with great impact.

4. Cool-toned marble

Marble is one of my favorite ways to make a small space look luxe, and the cool-toned version of it is a top summer color trend.

“Natural, cool-toned marble is particularly in vogue, offering a refreshing and serene aesthetic perfect for the warmer months,” advises Andrea. “These materials add texture and visual interest to any space, while their inherent durability makes them a practical choice for long-term use."

This is also easy to bring in through chic decor items. I love the Marble Crafter Dionysus 7-Piece Marble Coaster Set from Saks, which comes with a cute caddy and is a breeze to wipe clean.

5. Digital lavender

I’ve seen pastels make big waves this year, and one that has pulled away from the rest as a standout is the lovely lavender.

“Digital lavender is a vibrant and bold shade of purple that adds a pop of color to any space,” suggests Jonathan Faccone, design expert and founder of Halo Homebuyers. “This can be incorporated into a room through accent pieces like pillows, rugs, or artwork, or through bolder choices like painting an entire wall in this hue."

Jonathan also recommends mixing and matching different shades of digital lavender for a layered effect. 

I like the idea of doing this cute decorative pieces like the Daisy Soap Dispenser from Urban Outfitters, which is hand-painted and has a glossy finish perfect for small bathrooms.

6. Soft beige

While bold colors are definitely making a statement, I have also see a trend towards soft neutrals in 2024. 

“Shades like light beige are popular choices right now for creating a chilled-out atmosphere,” says Jonathan. “These colors work well together and can be used to create a cohesive color scheme throughout the house.”

These work especially well as lighting and can be used to create a striking effect, such as with the Hamimi Pendant from Banana Republic that's beautifully textured.

As well as this, Jonathan says they provide a great base for incorporating pops of color with accent pieces. 

7. Gold

Along with muted yellows and soft beiges warming up summer color trends, gold accents are also making a significant impact this season. 

“Incorporating gold not only adds a touch of elegance and sophistication but also brings warmth and richness to a space,” Andrea says. 

This can be as bold or as subtle as you like. For example, I like the Hibiscus Tieback from Anthropologie which gives me all the tropical vibes and comes with all the hanging hardware you need.

“Beyond hardware, we've seen gold being used creatively in peel-and-stick wallpaper designs, offering a luxurious touch that can transform any room into a stylish retreat,” Andrea adds.

By bringing summer color trends into your home this season, you'll be able to create an inviting space that make your place feel brand new and will wow your guests, too.

Now you've scoped out sumptuous shades, you might also want to find matching summer decor trends to complete the look. 

It's official: the brown trend is in right now. At first, I was surprised to see this color make a big comeback. But, after speaking to interior designers, I'm officially converted to its versatility and warmth.

We delved into why they're loving decorating with it and how to bring it into small spaces. One of my apprehensions about the color is the fact it can make spaces look dark, so I've asked them for tips on how to avoid this. Embracing brass accents, adding reflective tiles, and opting for lighter browns are easy ways to enjoy it.

If you're looking to follow interior design color trends for the year, bringing brown into your small space is a beautiful way to go.

Brown trend — everything you need to know about styling it in small spaces

Following small space color trends for the year is a brilliant way to find new shades you might not have thought of using.

My interior designer experts have recommended specific buys to help you get the look throughout, which I've curated highly-rated matching picks from trusted retailers. 

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Embrace brass or gold accents

Add sparkle and shine with brass or gold accents, which are also one of the biggest summer decor trends this year.

“These metallics complement brown beautifully by adding a touch of elegance and warmth,” explains Andrea Schumacher, interior designer and founder of Andrea Schumacher Interiors.

“The rich tones of brass and gold highlight the depth of brown, creating a luxurious and inviting space,” she adds.

Andrea suggests using gold-framed mirrors, brass light fixtures, or gold-accented furniture (the Etta Avenue Leslie End Table from Wayfair comes fully assembled and is made from strong aluminum) to enhance the brown elements in your room.

2. Try taupe tones

While darker colors can make a small space look darker, going for taupe when bringing in this brown trend is a smart move — especially as it’s one of the best colors for north-facing rooms.

“Light taupe tones are the best if you have a small and limited space, as they won’t overwhelm the area and will create a sense of openness,” explains Priyanshi Jain, interior designer and founder of Pixels & Spaces.

She recommends coloring the walls with it (Lick's Taupe 03 Paint Sample is the same shade pictured above and has warm red undertones) or laying down rugs in taupe tones (the Laine Ivory & Natural Rug from Ruggable comes in three different shapes and is washable) to create a cozy, relaxed vibe. 

Accessorizing with taupe is an enjoy way to enjoy the brown trend without committing to putting the hue on your walls or buying brown big-ticket furniture items.

3. Choose slimline furniture

Choosing small space furniture in brown trending tones is an easy way to bring in the color — but when you do so, be sure to choose pieces that are slimline. 

“Opt for furniture pieces that are not overboard or too bulky, as these types of furniture can make the place feel clustered and overwhelmed,” suggests Priyanshi.

You don’t need to spend a lot to do this, either — for example, the Mainstays Side Table from Walmart is under $15, folds, and is portable.

4. Pair blue and brown together

Even though brown is trending, this doesn’t mean you have to solely bring this color in when incorporating it into your home.

“Pairing brown with blue can bring a balanced and harmonious feel to a small space — for instance, a blue couch or a blue rug can complement the warm tones of brown furniture or walls,” says Andrea. 

I have my eye on the Mercury Row Brumback Velvet Couch from Wayfair, which has over 600 five-star reviews from shoppers on Wayfair who say it’s vibrant, sturdy, and ultra-soft.

“The coolness of blue contrasts with the warmth of brown, creating a visually appealing and dynamic look,” she continues.

If you want to brighten the area, Andrea recommends opting for lighter shades of blue. “On the other hand, darker blues can provide a richer, more dramatic effect,” she adds.

5. Paint an accent wall

If you’re really committed to going all-in with the brown trend and want to paint your walls with it, you might not want to cover all of them.

“Instead of coloring the whole room brown, consider coloring an accent wall with a chocolate brown shade,” recommends Priyanshi.

For those looking for the perfect rich shade, Benjamin Moore’s Wenge pictured above (available as a paint sample) is a delicious, deep shade that pairs well with taupe, beige, and light pink.

Priyanshi says choosing a darker tone like this will add a touch of depth and coolness to the area.

6. Reach for glossy brown tiles

Want to zhuzh up your kitchen or bathroom tiles with a color that isn’t just plain white? The brown trend can look gorgeous and glossy in this format.

“Brown tiles can add a natural, earthy element to the space — consider using brown tiles with different textures or finishes to add visual interest and depth,” Andrea suggests.

Whether it's a glossy brown subway tile for a sleek, reflective look or a matte, textured tile for a more rustic feel, Andrea says tiles can effectively anchor the room in warm, inviting tones.

I'm a big fan of this idea, so I've added the Bond Tiles Arbor Porcelain Tiles from Wayfair to my basket, as I love the geometric shapes and the fact they're water-resistant.

7. Vary the brown tones

Create dimension and interest in your trendy brown small space by varying the brown trend tones you bring into it.

“The vibe you're trying to achieve greatly influences how you should use brown,” says Andrea.

To brighten a space, she suggests pair brown with lighter colors, such as light blues.

“Or, if your goal is to create a more intimate and darker ambiance, consider using varying shades of dark brown or even incorporating black,” Andrea adds. 

This monochromatic approach can add sophistication without making it feel cramped, as enjoyed in two-tone kitchens.

Whether you want to go all-out with paint or would rather go for something more subtle, this color is a must-try.

“Using the brown trend in your home strategically can make the place look warm, inviting, and spacious,” Priyanshi finishes by saying.

One of the other trends we’ve seen pop up this season is Amalficore, which brings together earthy tones and colorful accents.

Amalficore is going to be the aesthetic of the summer. I am a trends editor and believe me, it is the next big thing. It's bright, beautiful, and full of lemon motifs that give it a playful Mediterranean feel. 

While last year was tomato girl summer, this year is officially Amalficore's time to shine. I have given the design aesthetic this name myself, as while I've seen it around, no one has actually given it an official term. I've asked designers who have also seen it come up what it is, how to decorate with it, plus shopped zesty buys.

If you're looking for summer decor trends to bring into your home or outdoor space this season, I've got you covered with everything you need to know about this fabulous and fruity style.

Everything you need to know about Amalficore

Keeping up with the latest interior design trends is a brilliant way to freshen up your home throughout the year. This summer, Amalficore is the one I'm squeezing into my place.

Where the designers I've spoken to have recommended specific products, I've picked pretty buys throughout to match their advice. 

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

What is Amalficore?

If you’re wondering what Amalficore is, I’ve got you covered with a proper definition of what the style entails. 

“A new interior design aesthetic has emerged, blending the vibrancy of Italian coastal towns with the serene charm of rustic elegance,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

“Dubbed Amalficore, this design trend captures the essence of the Amalfi Coast, merging colorful exuberance with earthy undertones,” she adds.

Picture being on vacation, lounging on a crisp white sun lounger, with terracotta tiles underneath you, a clear blue pool to your left, and a glass of cold lemonade in hand. That’s Amalficore summed up.

Where did Amalficore come from?

I have seen Amalficore making its way into interiors this year, with stores such as H&M Home and Desenio pioneering the aesthetic. I've also seen it come up as a TikTok design trend. After speaking to interior designers who confirmed they’d seen this style in clients' homes too, I decided to give it a name. 

This is because the Italian Amalfi Coast is known for its famous large lemons. Along with this, it has a beautiful scenery bright blue skies and oceans, plus earthy and colorful buildings.

How to decorate with Amalficore

This sun-kissed, laidback-luxe look of coastal Italy is easy to bring into your place by mixing up bright colors and textures.

“Infuse a bit of Italian glamor into your home with a Mediterranean color palette of bright blues, crisp whites, and pops of citrus tones and earthy terracotta,” explains Kathy Kuo, interior designer and founder of Kathy Kuo Home.

You can also go for smooth, natural materials, such as the Margaux Tray from Banana Republic which is handmade in India and is made from mango wood.

In terms of furnishings, Kathy recommends aiming for an aesthetic that is as comfortable as it is chic. Plush cushions, woven materials like cane and rattan, and artfully boho decor touches are all going to fit in perfectly. For example, the Business & Pleasure Co. Chaise Lounge Cushion from Anthropologie looks straight out of a hotel, is easy to clean, and is treated for anti-corrosion.

You can also work in indoor plants and greenery to add richness to the space. “Trees and lush vines can transform your space into a Mediterranean haven,” explains Nina. “Not only do they add a nature vibe, but they also purify the air and enhance the overall ambiance.”

Go for the full Amalficore vibe by choosing a lemon tree such as Gurney's Meyer Lemon Tropical Citrus Fruit Tree from Walmart, which has a beautiful fragrance and thrives indoors.

“Now, finish off the look with an Aperol Spritz and relax Italiano-style!" Kathy adds.

Shop the Amalficore edit

Want to bring all the citrusy, colorful vibes into your home? These buys will help you do just that.

The Amalficore trend is such a fun way to bring summer style into your home and is a trend that I think will be here for years to come.

“By incorporating the vibrant colors, natural materials, and artisanal touches of Amalficore, you can transform your home into a Mediterranean sanctuary, filled with warmth, charm, and Italian magic,” Nina finishes by saying.

If you want to carry on decorating your place for warmer weather, outdoor decor trends might come in useful, too.

Kerry Washington's dining room is making me want to repaint mine immediately. The Scandal actor has been announced as a star in the new Knives Out film, so I took the opportunity to scroll through her Instagram feed and remind myself just how fabulous she is. 

On my journey, I spotted a video of her talking through her spread with the design magazine Rue, where she showed off her beautiful home. I loved it all, but the part that really caught my attention was her bright orange dining room. So, I just had to ask design pros why it works so well and how to bring the style in.

If you're looking for dining room ideas that will set your home apart from the rest, having a look at what Kerry has done is sure to inspire you.

Why we're loving Kerry Washington's dining room

Kerry Washington has proved that her impeccable taste beyond the screen (I’ve wanted her Scandal wardrobe for so long) and into her home. 

“Her dining room, a stunning blend of contemporary elegance and vibrant charm, showcases her unique ability to create spaces that are both inviting and visually striking,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

The first thing that catches the eye is the bold pop of orange, which energizes the space beautifully. “This vibrant accent wall is adorned with a large, framed black-and-white artwork, creating a striking focal point that perfectly balances the room's dynamic and sophisticated aesthetic,” Nina adds.

To create a similar look, you could try hanging up just one framed print as dining room wall decor, such as the Black Brush Strokes Poster from Desenio which has striking colors and is printed on paper made from an FSC mix.

At the heart of the dining room is a sleek, rectangular dining table with a polished wood finish. “Its clean lines and minimalist design are complemented by a set of modern dining chairs, each upholstered in a chic gray fabric with elegant wood legs.”

She says the dining room chairs provide a sophisticated counterpoint to the vibrant orange wall, grounding the room's design with their understated elegance.

Hanging above all these is a statement chandelier, which combines sculptural design with gold metallic tones, improving the dining room lighting. “I can imagine that the chandelier’s warm, ambient light casts a soft glow over the dining area, enhancing the room’s inviting and intimate atmosphere,” she adds. 

I think the Hudson Valley Lighting Chandelier from Saks is a very close match to Kerry's. It is a splurge, but it has a sophisticated steel frame and comes with all the mounting hardware you need.

How to recreate the look

If you want to bring the look into your home, start by choosing a bold color to create a dining room accent wall. “This doesn’t necessarily need to be orange — pick a bold shade that speaks to you, grab a paint sample of it, and place it on your dining room wall to see if it works in the space,” suggests Emily Lambe, deputy editor at Real Homes.

“It’s also a good idea to check the best colors for north-facing rooms and the best colors for south-facing rooms before you commit,” Emily adds.

Being mindful of the finishing touches is also key to tying the whole room together. “Kerry’s dining room table is filled with pieces that are carefully chosen to enhance the aesthetic while adding personality,” Nina says. “On the dining table, a shapely vase and a stylish bowl infuse the room with warmth and character without overwhelming the space.”

For example, the Fedia Bowl from Banana Republic will add light and dark dimension to a dining room table thanks to its unique silhouette. 

By bringing in contemporary fittings, bright colors, and dramatic decor, you can create a space that matches Kerry’s. “Making your dining room a focal point in your home is a brilliant way to make it more inviting for guests to gather around and enjoy,” Emily adds.

Shop our Kerry Washington dining room edit

Kerry Washington’s dining room is a vibrant oasis that perfectly marries modern design with a bold, colorful twist. 

“With its harmonious blend of style, functionality, and a striking orange wall, this dining room is a wonderful example of how to create a space that’s both beautiful and welcoming,” Nina finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scouting out celebrity dining rooms? You might like Olivia Rodrigo’s dining room, which also has a mid-century style.

I'm so ready to bring summer decor trends into my home. While I do love spring, I am getting a little tired of pastel colors (*gasp*) and want to bring fresh shades and vibrancy into my home.

I've asked interior designers what they're going to be reaching for this summer when decorating, and there are plenty of styles that are chic and will last into other seasons. Coastal Hamptons vibes, playful pattern mixing, and luxe gold tones are just a few that will do the rounds this season.

If you want to welcome in the latest interior design trends into your home, there is such a variety to choose from. I am in love with all of these for different reasons, and I'm sure you'll be a big fan of them, too.

Sizzling summer decor trends to try

Whether you're looking for small space trends or have a larger home to decorate, these trends will add sunshine to your space.

Our designers have recommended specific decor pieces to help you achieve these, which I have curated matching picks for throughout in case you want to start re-decorating (I know I do!).

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Gold tones

Bringing in color trends for the year is an easy way to glow up your space and change how it looks completely.

“Gold and warm tones are making a significant impact in home decor this summer because they instantly brighten spaces and create a cheerful, inviting atmosphere,” says Andrea Schumacher, interior designer and founder of Andrea Schumacher Interiors.

“These colors evoke warmth, luxury, and comfort, making any room feel more welcoming and lively,” she adds.

To bring gold in, Andrea recommends starting with picture frames and decorative objects (the Vietri Moon Glass Leaf Small Bowl from Saks is chic, hand wash only, and made from glass) and then gradually building up with mirrors, furniture, and even feature walls.

She adds, “Layer various warm tones to create a rich, cohesive look and ensure they complement the existing color palette and decor elements.”

2. Coastal Hamptons

I was a huge fan of the coastal grandmother trend that made a splash last year, and have seen nautical interiors sneaking back again, albeit in a slightly different way this year.

"For summer 2024, I'm seeing so many signs that upscale Coastal Hamptons is going to be the look of the season,” explains Kathy Kuo, interior designer and founder of Kathy Kuo Home. “The Coastal Hamptons look is all about a sense of laidback luxury, with plenty of visual nods to the beach and the seaside environment."

To bring this look in, Kathy recommends going for weathered teak patio furniture with crisp white and blue pillows and throw blankets, statement lighting featuring capiz shell (you can grab 100 two-inch capiz discs from Etsy and customize existing items) and driftwood.

Consider too some super-chic nautical-inspired dishware and glassware for entertaining poolside (the Novobey Shell Snack Plates from Walmart are stackable, lightweight, and non-slip). 

3. Bright, bold hues

Big, bold shades are back this year, and they’re a brilliant way to energize your decor with summer trends.

“Incorporate vibrant accent pieces such as pillows, artwork, or area rugs in shades like citrusy yellow, coral pink, or turquoise blue,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design. 

Inside, she suggests balancing these hues with neutral backgrounds for a striking yet harmonious look.

I also like the idea of bringing these outside, such as with patterned throw pillows to create a cozy place to relax under the sun (this is one of my favorite stylish pergola ideas). For example, the Bay Isle Home Berkeley Throw Pillow from Wayfair is reversible, comes with an insert, and is machine washable.

4. Amalficore decor

The bright red and yellow tomato summer aesthetic was one of the biggest TikTok decor trends last year, but it is its grown-up Mediterranean counterpart that designers are seeing loved this year. I’m officially calling it Amalficore, by the way.

“Think of earthy tones, like terracotta, ochre, and olive green, complemented by crisp whites and deep blues reminiscent of the sea,” explains Nina.

“Complete the look with artisanal accents like mosaic patterns, vintage pottery, and intricate metalwork to create a warm, inviting ambiance,” she adds.

To get the summer decor trend look myself, I have the Spritz and Spa Breeze Poster from Desenio in my basket at the moment, which I’m going to style above my gold bar cart. 

5. Pattern mixing

Retro styles such as 2000s interior design have made a huge comeback this year, thanks to people leaning heavily into nostalgic decor. One of these is pattern mixing, which is a key summer decor trend.

“Pattern mixing is a hot trend for summer 2024 because it adds a fun, unique, and dynamic element to home decor. This trend allows for creativity and personalization, making spaces feel more vibrant and interesting,” says Andrea.

“Mixing patterns can transform a room, giving it depth and character while reflecting the homeowner's personality,” she adds. 

To implement pattern mixing in your home, Andrea recommends starting by identifying a colorful focal point, such as a cherished piece of art or a unique heirloom, and letting that inspire your color palette. 

“You don't have to dive headfirst into bold wallpapers — instead, consider incorporating color through smaller elements like statement lamps or lively area rugs (the Absida Rainbow Rug from Ruggable is an Instagram favorite and has five color options), which can be easily swapped out if needed,” she adds.

6. Textured walls

Create an eye-catching focal point in your home by bringing in textured walls filled with personality.

“Textured walls are making a bold statement this summer — especially those featuring graphic patterns,” says Andrea.

“To incorporate textured walls into your home, start by selecting a color pattern that complements your existing hardware and furniture,” she says. “Then, choose textures and graphics that enhance the room’s overall aesthetic, ensuring they bring out the colors of surrounding decor.”

When selecting a textured wall, Andrea recommends considering the room's purpose and the desired ambiance. 

“From here, balance the textured wall with neutral tones in the rest of the decor to prevent the room from feeling too busy,” she says.

I really love the Gracie Oaks Jahlissa Roll from Wayfair which has a beautiful patterned texture that is giving me all the Bridgerton design vibes and is water and heat resistant. 

7. Tenniscore

Thanks to the Challengers movie starring Zendaya, tenniscore has swung into the summer decor trends list.

Nina explains, “Tenniscore interior design is a stylish trend inspired by the elegance of tennis and country club aesthetics, blending classic sports elements with refined decor.”

“To achieve this look, use a color palette of whites, greens, and navy blues, incorporate natural materials like wood and rattan, and select timeless furniture pieces,” she says.

You can also decorate with vintage style decor tennis memorabilia, such as framed rackets and tournament posters. I think one of the Salvagedvintagegoods Rackets from Etsy, which have authentic worn patinas and come in different styles, would look amazing in a wooden frame.

With these summer decor trends, you can transform your home into a serene and stylish retreat.

“Welcome the warmth and vibrancy of summer by incorporating these summer decor trend ideas, and create a home that feels fresh, inviting, and perfectly aligned with the season's laid-back charm,” Nina finishes by saying.

If you’re reading this and want to take things back a season, spring home decor ideas may come in useful for you instead.

I'm officially in love with these Pinterest summer decor trends that social media has predicted will be everywhere this season.

I was lucky enough to get a sneak peek at the Pinterest Summer Trends Report that it released on May 22, and let me tell you — it's filled with aesthetics that are all about showcasing personality. With expert help, I've broken down each home design trend and explained how to style them in your own place.

When it comes to scouting out the latest home decor trends, seeing what people are searching for on socials is a brilliant indicator as to what's about to hit the mainstream and what interior designers will be reaching for next.

Sizzling Pinterest summer decor trends

I'm always scrolling through Pinterest for interior design ideas, and if you're the same as me, you're going to love the styles it's predicting will be huge this season.

For each aesthetic I've also curated high-quality matching buys, in case you want to bring them straight into your place.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

Nancy Meyers core

This is one trend that I did not predict making the big time this year, but it’s actually not a surprise. With quiet luxury being one of the top trends last year, it makes sense that the design world has transitioned to a more comforting, elegant take on it.

“Nancy Meyers' movies have such a distinct look and feel that's perfect for the summer. It's a mix of peppy and traditional style with modern touches thrown in to keep things fresh,” says Emily Lambe, deputy editor at Real Homes. 

“Picture spacious kitchens with white cabinetry, plush furniture, soft neutral tones, and a touch of timelessness,” adds Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design. 

She continues, “These spaces feel lived-in and warmly inviting, with personal touches and thoughtful details throughout.”

Pinterest has seen an increase of 2055% of people searching for Nancy Meyers homes this year. Some of her films with iconic interiors include The Holiday, The Parent Trap, and Father of the Bride.

“To get the look, use a palette of whites, creams, and soft blues, invest in quality furniture, and incorporate natural materials,” Nina says. These also hallmarks of the coastal grandmother trend.

For those looking to add these in subtly and sweetly, you can add personal touches such as framed family photos, fresh flowers, and soft throw blankets (the Latitude Run Teshena Blanket from Wayfair is similar to the one above, can be tumble dried, and has a one year warranty).

Dopamine decor

I have seen dopamine decor come and go over the years, but it has made a big, bold comeback again this year, as many are now designing with personality in mind.

Two expansions of dopamine decor that Pinterest has seen a jump in this year so far include whimsical decor which is up 4690% and color drenching which is up 990%.

Emily says, “Dopamine decor is great if you're a 'more is more' person. Embrace bold colors, loud patterns, and strong shapes with a maximalist feel.”

In terms of bringing this in, Nina suggests using bright colors like yellows, pinks, and greens, bringing in quirky art pieces (I have Desenio's Candy Garden Waterfall Print in my basket, which has a unique mosaic pattern), and layering textures and materials.

Eclectic vintage

When I’ve spoken to interior designers this year, I’ve found so many of them recommending vintage style decor as a stylish way to bring refined style into the home.

Nina explains, “Eclectic vintage is all about blending old and new, mixing antique finds with modern elements.”

“The style celebrates individuality, showcasing a curated collection of treasures that tell a story,” she says.

This particular take on vintage has shot up 1418% in Pinterest searches this year, with complementary tea sets vintage up 168% and vintage dinnerware up 212%. 

It’s important not to be afraid to choose pieces you like and pair them together, rather than trying to meticulously curate. “Let your imagination run wild with kooky accents and fun pops of color — you might surprise yourself with what you end up styling,” Emily adds.

Themed dinner parties

Summer days are made for having guests round, serving up delicious food on dining tables, and chatting around the table while the sun sets.

These have taken a whole new life on Pinterest, with searches up 430% for Bridgerton design tea parties, fairycore dinner parties up 150%, and Greek dinner parties up 75%.

I've also seen Amalficore come up the ranks on TikTok and Pinterest and think it's going to be one of the hottest design trends this summer.

“What's not to love about a themed dinner party in the summer? Pick something you know and love and run with the style,” Emily says.

“They create memorable experiences through creative decor, tailored menus, and engaging activities,” Nina adds.

You can customize your event with everything from themed music and food to fun ice cubes (the Xgunion Plastic Ice Cubes from Amazon are reusable and non-diluting) and personalized place settings.

No matter what your style, there is a Pinterest summer decor trend that will work for you. By using these, you can show off your sparkling personality by bringing in pieces you love and dazzle guests with how stylish your space is. 

If you want to carry on decorating your home for the season, learning how to refresh your home for summer is a fabulous idea.

Pergola ideas are beautiful ways to create a secluded sanctuary in your backyard, no matter what the size of your space or how good a gardener you are.

From warming features such as lights and heaters to natural touches like flowers and woven materials, we've rounded up many ways to turn a standard part of your outdoor space into a divine place to relax and lounge.

If you're looking for backyard privacy ideas that will create a focal point in yours, a pretty pergola could be the way to go for you.

Beautiful pergola ideas

Whether you're searching for privacy screen ideas or just want to try something different in your backyard, pergolas are worth a go, bringing sophistication and seclusion. 

1. Add shade next to a wall

You don't just have to use pergolas as standalone structures. Instead, why not try mounting your pergola to the side of your home?

If your abode boasts a gorgeous industrial design style, continue this underneath your pergola with furniture and accessories featuring raw materials, bold lines, and dark, neutral color schemes.

2. Glow it up with lanterns

Pergola ideas offer the perfect structural space to hang up glowing lanterns, which will add a cozy, glowy atmosphere with soft lanterns.

For a romantic, bohemian vibe, add a pair of lanterns (we like this pair of ROSHWEY solar powered globe lanterns on Amazon for their pretty shadows) with blankets (we love the luxurious hand-carded merino throw from Banana Republic), which will elevate your evening plans without leaving your home. 

Snuggle up with your favorite person (or four-legged friend), and gaze up at twinkling stars with these above you.

3. Use it to zone your space

Optimize the functionality of your outdoor space by using your pergola to divide the space into multiple activity zones. From outdoor dining spaces to yoga sanctuaries, the possibilities are endless. 

Experts at Trex say, "A pergola is ideal for instantly framing and defining a space. A relatively easy addition to any deck or yard, pergolas create the look and feel of an outdoor room while adding a distinct architectural element.

"Its main purpose is to provide shade, which makes it ideal for those working from home and wanting to catch rays while seeing their screen."

4. Add a sturdy pergola hat

Protect paws and feet from the ‘walking on fire’ effects of the summer glare with a sturdy pergola hat (shade) that can provide property protection, plant support, and beauty to your patio.

Master gardener, Kate Russell, of The Daily Garden, and author of Stop Wasting Your Yard!, says, "‘Well-made pergolas with sturdy hats do more than simply look nice. They protect us and our patio furnishings and patio dining sets from the sun's summer glare, provide climbing materials for grapevines and many other plants, and reduce the heat sink effect."

5. Grow shade-bearing plants

Incorporate beautiful nature into your pergola with fragranced climbing plants and trellis ideas that transform it into a living outdoor feature. 

Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love, says, "A pergola over a nice garden path creates a great opportunity for growing shade-bearing plants. Honeysuckle is a favorite in the south when it comes to growing on a pergola. Grapevines grow well, as do passionflowers. Anything that grows along a vine, or is classified as a clinging plant, will grow well."

Just make sure that you place the pergola itself in a place that gets enough sunlight and rain, and match your choice of plants to the pergola environment you have available for planting.

6. Install ceiling panels to protect it from fallen debris

If you want to avoid a confetti of constant twig and leaf debris from raining on your pergola parade, consider adding a ‘ceiling’ to yours instead.

Grace Baena, interiors curator at Kaiyo, explains, "If you love the openness of a pergola but you don't want to have to worry about tree debris and weather damage, try installing glass panels on the top of the pergola."

This will protect your seating area underneath while still allowing you a full view of the sky above.

7. Try a striking awning

Refresh your outdoor living space with a stylish sunshade that adds a dimension of texture.

Samantha Steur, design expert at SunSetter says: "Awnings are a stylish and simple solution for homeowners who want to expand or enhance their pergola to create an oasis outdoors for relaxation, gathering, and entertaining."

They offer many advantages and benefits including greater outdoor enjoyment, weather, and UV protection, rain or shine.

You can purchase awnings from many retailers online, including a stripey green and cream awning from MCombo at Wayfair, which comes in two sizes, has been given five stars by happy customers, but be warned the installation charge is north of $500.

8. Float on air with a DIY pergola swing

Swing away your stresses with a happy-go-lucky, DIY ‘chair in the air’ that turns your pergola into a place for both for rest and play.

Robert Johnson, founder of Sawinery, explains, "A pergola swing is an incredible structure. Add some shelves on the sides, which you can then use as a table or planting station."

If you're not the most DIY savvy, you can always choose the best hanging chair and bring this into your pergola space instead.

9. Stay toasty with an outdoor heater

To keep yourself pleasantly warm on cooler nights under your pergola, why not installing heater or fire pit ideas?

These can be installed in outdoor alfresco areas and will add a warm ambiance to the space, whether you're dining underneath your pergola or are sitting underneath it with drinks.

This is one of the best pergola ideas if you live in an area that tends to get cooler weather, or you like to enjoy your outdoor space year-round.

10. Increase the overall value of your home with a luxe pergola

If you’re thinking about moving to pastures new, sprucing up your outside space is a must to add to the value of your home. 

Pergolas are one of the key outdoor decor trends that you can add to enhance the style of your space and to increase how attractive it is to prospective buyers. Channel your inner Selling Sunset and get building your own pergola ASAP.

11. Create an outdoor oasis with trending jewel-tones

One of the biggest design trends for the year is jewel-toned pieces, which are ideal for creating a sense of positivity and escapism in your pergola.  

For a bold statement and to bring the beauty of rare gemstones into your backyard, add bright tones of exterior paint in lustrous cobalt blues and uplifting fuchsia pinks can liven up uninspired furniture. 

You can always learn how to upcycle furniture and paint everything from table legs to your whole pergola in these shades. 

These striking colors are a stylish choice for anyone looking to draw attention to focal points within your garden.

12. Try a low-budget revamp with a DIY pergola

We’re always on the hunt for quick, simple, and cost-effective ways to revamp, refresh, and update backyards. This includes pergola ideas — meaning it's now or never that we learn how to build a pergola.

Save your dollars by cutting out the middleman, learning a new skill, and DIY-ing your own outdoor space. Who needs to shop for bargains when you can nail the look yourself?

13. Bring in the bubbles with a hot tub

If your garden is lucky enough to host one of the best hot tubs, why not create a weatherproof set up with a pergola overhead? Place your hot tub underneath your pergola, sheltering it from everything the elements have to throw at it and enjoy bubbling away all year round.

14. Create an outdoor dining area under a pergola

A pergola can be a great focal point in a backyard, as well as serving as the perfect place to focus your socializing, too. 

Add outdoor dining table ideas underneath yours, complete it with outdoor dining chairs, and hang lush lighting. By doing this, you can create an ambient place for feasting and entertaining all season long and beyond.

15. Take it from day to night

Pergola ideas needn't be costly. As this picture shows, simply adding a white tablecloth to the table, adorning it with the best candles, and finishing with a cute plant take the pergola set-up from chilled out daytime vibes to evening chic.

16. Use bright colors to decorate

If you've gone for a super basic DIY pergola design as a more budget-friendly option, that's not to say that your pergola can't be the place to be for gorgeous backyard party ideas.

Brighten it up with bold outdoor cushions, and run pops of color from top to bottom using bunting, colored string lights, and more. 

17. Paint it blue

If blue skies are your thing, you can paint your pergola in this shade. By doing this, you can create a serene atmosphere in your backyard, even on gray days. Chalky blues are in favor this year, so why not try Glidden Essentials 'Innuendo' Exterior Satin Paint from The Home Depot which is a lovely versatile exterior paint in this fashionable shade.

18. Keep it cozy with a cover

We love how the @layered.home has created a really cozy set up under a pergola with a gathered covering. Perfect to soften the look plus, that burnt orange is making us dream of sunsets for days. This has to be one of the most fun pergola ideas we've seen, and the geometric outdoor rugs really bring balance and intrigue. 

If you like the look of the one we've pictured above, try the black and ivory Isael Geometric Outdoor Rug from Wayfair which comes in three sizes and can be delivered within 24 hours.

19. Opt for a fixed, sturdy structure

Go deluxe with your pergola and invest in a design that has glass or metal roofing that you can open when it's bright and close when it's drizzly. 

A solid structure is ideal to divide your outdoor space too, creating an area for dining and better defining the rest of your yard.

20. Stretch out your deck

For a stylish deck idea that feels like a natural extension of your home, you'll want to invest in a solid pergola, likely custom-made, that stretches the length of your entire decked area. 

Mirror the construction with your furniture and you'll have one really sophisticated and functional backyard space in no time.

21. Match your fence

Chances are, whether you buy a fully formed pergola or a DIY pergola kit, it will arrive as unfinished bare wood.

While you can leave it as is and it will still look lovely, you can also paint it to match your fence and other hard landscaping for a refined and cohesive finish. 

We love how @nest_number_9 has painted her pergola black to make it more of a feature in her garden. 

22. Square the top frame for interest

We're all about mixing up our pergola styles, and we love the look of a square top frame. 

The modern structure and chic white finish bring the look of this outdoor space together really nicely. 

As well as this, we love how it's complemented with an outdoor fireplace idea and plush furniture, which enhances the sleek look.

23. Create an outdoor lounging space under a pergola

We love the boho feel of this outdoor setup; the layers of texture and neutral color palette look so luxe and give a real hotel feel. 

You could always take this look one step further by adding trendy outdoor lounge chairs, rugs, cushions, throws, and soft lighting.

24. Blend into the landscape with natural materials

For a pergola idea that really blends into the backyard, opt for a roof made from natural materials. 

You can pick up reed screens from DIY stores and then simply secure them in between the beams of your pergola structure. 

25. Grow dazzlingplants up and around your pergola

One of our favorite pergola ideas is getting plants growing up and around the structure.

Plant garden borders to disguise the base of the pergola, and mix in some climbers too that will grow up and over the beams. 

Not only will this look lovely, but this will provide natural shade from the sun, too. Pictured is wisteria, but please note that this plant can take many years from planting to bloom, and the success and speed will depend on the type of wisteria you plant, the conditions and care.

26. Add plenty of lighting to your pergola

Lighting is key to creating a pergola space that feels cozy and inviting, even on chilly evenings. 

Combine a variety of garden lighting ideas, and drape around string lights, dot about some lanterns (the Lights4fun Candle Lanterns from Amazon have flickering bulbs and a handy six-hour timer), or even hang pendant lights from the beams.

27. Nod to rustic pergola vibes

We love how simple and rustic this pergola is, with the light-colored natural decking and neutral colors of the exterior walls. 

The rustic looks makes the pergola area seem like an extension of the house too, adding an extra dining space attached to the kitchen.

28. Build yours against a brick wall

For more wind protection, a covered pergola built up against an external wall will create a really solid outdoor living space.

One of the easiest pergola ideas, the characterful brick wall combines with the quality finish of the pergola design. And, we'd like to sit there, too.

29. Add cover with natural landscaping materials

Benefitting from a backyard screening idea such as a covered pergola doesn't need to cost the earth. 

Instead, work with mother nature and opt for natural reed or even bamboo. Not only will they bring coastal vibes, but they will also add a little more privacy to your space too.

30. Try a contemporary black frame

For a modern look, keep your pergola bold and simple. A plain black structure makes the perfect frame for an energetic space inside full of color, lighting and accessories. Such a setup is sure to make those summer days extra special.

31. Squeeze a pergola into a side return

You don't need loads of outdoor space to add a pergola. For a small backyard idea, you can squeeze one into an unused side return. This will make it a natural extension of your home and provide a beautiful spot for respite when you need it.

FAQs

What's the best height for a pergola?

The dimensions of your pergola will depend on your personal requirements and preference, but generally the roof of a garden structure should be high enough to allow even your tallest friends to walk under it comfortably — think up to 2.5 meters. 

What style of pergola should I choose?

The varieties of pergolas are extensive but they generally fall into two main styles: traditional and modern. Unlike other aspects of choosing a pergola, the style comes mostly down to taste. If you have an out of town backyard you may prefer a traditional style. Or, if you live in a more urban area, then a sleek design might be more up your street and in-keeping with regional aesthetics.

Where should I place my backyard pergola?

According to Pergola Kits USA, popular areas to install a pergola include:

• Over a driveway to protect your car
• Over decking or patios
• Outdoor kitchens, barbeques, and/or outdoor dining areas
• Above a hot tub
• Beside a pool
• Over a garden path to frame it

There are so many pergola ideas to choose from that it can feel difficult to make a decision — but the most important things to focus on are sun protection, and relaxing or socializing outside. 

Once you've found your perfect one, you can carry on designing your backyard with easy to follow steps, and consider the backyard privacy mistakes to swerve.

Nothing sounds quite as inviting as resting on a cloud couch. Lookalikes of the viral Restoration Hardware splurge are just as cozy and stylish as the trendsetter, but a fraction of the price. 

The cozy silhouettes, ample configurations, and of course, plush fabric all contribute to the original's viral fame. Support from the likes of Kendall Jenner and Nina Dobrev doesn't hurt, either. But rest assured, you can feel like you're floating on a cloud à la A listers without shelling out thousands for The Cloud. 

If you're looking to refresh a small living room and turn your space into a restful sanctuary, these selections are as close to relaxing on a Cumulonimbus as you'll get. 

Why everyone wants a Cloud Couch

Every so often, a product takes over social media feeds and completely dominates the decor scene. You remember the hype surrounding the Gleaming Primrose mirror from Anthropologie, right? This comfy living room staple has similar star power. 

"In interior design, certain furniture pieces rise above mere functionality to become iconic symbols of modern living," says interior designer Nina Lichtenstein. "Among these, the Restoration Hardware Cloud Sofa has emerged as a superstar, captivating design enthusiasts worldwide."

Actress Kerry Washington, who has one of her own, warns shoppers not to expect to be productive after resting on one of these $4,000+ pieces. Gabrielle Union has been known to strike a pose alongside her Cloud on Instagram. It's a chic yet comfy statement maker if ever there was one. 

"Essentially it is a viral phenomenon due to its style and build," Nina says. "What sets the Cloud apart is its design ethos, which prioritizes both form and function. Crafted with a sturdy frame and generous cushions, it strikes the perfect balance between structural integrity and sumptuous comfort.“

And to top it all off, it fits in seamlessly with all of the best living room trends, no matter what you're going for.

"The modular design is a key component to its success because it means the style options can be customized to fit into different spaces and suit different needs," says designer Bree Steele. "Because the couch has a minimalist and versatile design, it can fit really well into many different decor styles."

Shop Cloud Couch dupes

The customizable Cloud Couch proves that there are plenty of ways to style a sofa without bringing in too many accessories. But if the original is too far out of budget, we’ve found a few cozy selections that can be personalized, are suitable for small spaces — and much lighter on the pocket.

Prices were correct at the time of publication. 

Should you be working with a large space, you might want to consider rivaling RH's original with the likes of the Meridian Furniture Plush Standard Cream Velvet Modular Sectional from Walmart or IKEA's Finnala sectional. 

Regardless of the size or the way in which you personalize each module of the couch, there's unanimous agreement about the way in which to show off this sofa stunner. 

"A couch like this can be the room's focal point if you want it to be," Bree says. "To achieve this, use a neutral color palette for the walls and floors, like soft pastels or earth tones. Choosing colors like this will complement the inviting nature of the couch, and make it seem truly like a cloud in your living room."

With the help of a faux fur blanket to add texture, a sleek sculpture to create visual interest, and personal touches to add charm, you're well on your way to a space you'll love.

"By integrating this iconic piece into your home and styling it thoughtfully, you can create a sanctuary that celebrates both style and substance—a space where comfort meets sophistication," Nina adds.

Working with limited space? Our designer-backed tips for how to make a small living room look bigger will make the most out of what you do have, putting function and style and the forefront.

Retro small bathroom ideas are perfect for those who love quirky character and bringing throwbacks from the past into their home. 

Newstalgia is all the rage, so we've asked interior designers how to bring it into your small bathroom on a budget. Get ready to fall in love with playful prints, vintage fixtures, and art-deco accents.

For those looking for small bathroom ideas that showcase personality and are fun and playful, retro is the way to go.

Ravishing retro small bathroom ideas

Whether you're looking to bring in small bathroom design trends (vintage is back, FYI) or just love colorful interiors, you can't go wrong with retro.

Our experts have recommended specific buys throughout, which we have curated matching buys for to help you get the vintage look in your washroom.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Pick bold wallpaper

Make a bold and beautiful statement with retro-inspired wallpaper featuring whimsical prints or bold graphics. 

“Choose designs with floral motifs, abstract patterns, or atomic-era themes to add personality to your small bathroom,” suggests Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

She recommends applying wallpaper to a single accent wall or using it to wrap the entire space for maximum impact (the Latitude Run Striped Roll from Wayfair doesn't require any paste and has superior strength) — hello, va va voom!

2. Pay attention to the fixtures

Every detail counts in a small bathroom, so be sure to pay attention to smaller pieces like the fixtures.

“I like to select ones that are retro-inspired, which can be through shapes that are reminiscent of mid-century designs or art deco styles,” explains Gaia Guidi Filippi, principal designer and founder of Gaia G Interiors.

“A wall-mounted style with cross handles will often give that old-time feel,” she adds.

Gaia says selecting the right finish for the style is key here, and to think unlacquered brass for a more vintage-looking vibe and a wood and polished nickel combo (the Franklin Iron Works Light from Amazon has 120 volts and can be controlled with the push of a button) for something really mid-century. 

3. Add a tilt mirror

Mirrors are an absolute must for a retro small bathroom, as they can make a small space appear bigger thanks to their reflective qualities.

“A tilt mirror is so reminiscent of a bygone look and so pretty and easy to incorporate into a small bathroom space,” Gaia says. “Rectangular shapes and ovals, in brass or polished nickel help to achieve the retro look.”

Investing in one of these will make your room sparkle and create an inviting spot to do your all-important skincare routine. 

For example, the Hamilton Hills Gold Pivot Mirror from Walmart has glass backed with security vinyl and doesn’t require any additional accessories. 

4. Choose pastel shades

Some of the best paint colors for small bathrooms involve pastel shades, which are soothing, soft, and reminiscent of the 1950s and 1960s. 

Nina explains, “Paint walls in pastel hues like mint green, powder blue, or peach pink to create a retro backdrop. Pair these colors with white accents to keep the space feeling airy and open while adding a hint of vintage sweetness.”

You can DIY the same look as above yourself by brushing on peachy paint onto a white wall. 

We think Benjamin Moore’s Springtime Peach will marry up well with clean shades and vibrant oranges if you want a bolder look.

5. Pick eye-catching tiles

As well as using wallpaper to bring in a quirky look, opt for retro flair with vibrant tiles. 

“Opt for classic designs like black and white checkerboard floors, geometric motifs, or colorful subway tiles reminiscent of mid-century aesthetics,” Nina says.

She adds, “Apply these tiles selectively on floors, walls, or backsplashes to add visual interest without overwhelming the space.”

For smaller bathrooms, we recommend keeping these glossy and bright, such as the Supreme Tile Borgo Tiles from Wayfair made from porcelain and that have a low water absorption rate.

6. Go for a freestanding sink

Allowing as much light to flow through the space as possible is key to brightening up a small bathroom, which will help make it look bigger. This is where a freestanding sink comes in.

Gaia explains, “A fantastic way to bring a real vintage vibe to a small bathroom is to choose a freestanding sink with exposed plumbing.”

“You can even use the front or sidebar to hang a lacy vintage hand towel,” she continues. “It’s a show-stopping way of making a bathroom feel retro,” she adds.

You can either go for an ultra-chic option like Gaia’s or pick something simple and space-saving such as the Utilitysinks Compact Sink from Walmart.

7. Find retro storage solutions

You can maximize space and enhance the retro look with clever small bathroom storage solutions (yes, really!). 

“Install open shelving crafted from wood or metal and hunt down vintage perfume bottles for soaps and shower gels,” Nina suggests.

Head down to secondhand furniture stores such as Goodwill, as they are great places to find these sustainably. 

Or, if you’re looking for a quick solution, the Union Rustic Wall Shelves from Wayfair are made from solid wood and are fully handmade.

By combining these retro small bathroom ideas, you can transform your compact space into a delightful retreat.

“Embrace the playful spirit of bygone eras while infusing your style to create a bathroom that is both functional and has vintage allure,” Nina finishes by saying.

If you prefer a softer look, farmhouse small bathroom ideas also look nostalgic yet are sweet and dreamy.

There's something very appealing about blue small bathroom ideas, perhaps because many of the hues are so calm-inducing — perfect for the one room in the house dedicated to restoration and relaxation.

This timeless color particularly looks fabulous in small bathrooms, opening them up and ushering in style without making it feel cramped. Our interior experts reveal their favorite shades and how to style versatile blue hues with accents of blush, apple green, and off-white, plus the different ways to bring in blue beyond painting.

Our expert-led 10 blue small bathroom ideas bring the perfect design inspiration to help you turn your small space into one that's chic and feels expansive, whatever the square footage.

Stunning blue small bathroom ideas 

From the palest sky blue featured in narrow small bathrooms, to a deep teal, there's an ideal blue for everyone — and it's the perfect color for compact washrooms.

"Blue is an excellent choice for a bathroom for several reasons. It's known to evoke feelings of calmness and relaxation, perfect for creating a soothing atmosphere in a space dedicated to unwinding and rejuvenation," says Jamie Watkins, co-founder, Divine Savages. 

Where our interior design experts have recommended products, our experienced in-house shopping team has curated highly-rated matching buys from trusted retailers.

Prices were correct at the time this article was published.

1. Choose a paint shade that matches your tiles

We love a cohesive color-drenched look, but it can be hard to get it right if you're using different materials whilst still hoping to match up the colors. Using different finishes of paint from the same range can help alleviate that.

The calming blue bathroom pictured above has been painted in Farrow & Ball's Sardine, a chalky shade with a lush softness to it.It also comes in multiple finishes. To paint white tiles, sand, prime then use an eggshell finish. 

You can pair this chalky blue with an off white on some walls to create balance. Lick's White 05 Matt will pair well with a variety of blue shades, including muted tones.

2. Incorporate pretty florals

Consider introducing a floral element to your blue bathroom — this can include decorative basins, window treatments, towels, lampshades, trinkets or art. As long as there is a common blue thread, it'll help build in texture, variety and visual intrigue on theme. 

“A colorful basin is a good starting point when designing your bathroom, as it will act as the focal point of the space. Floral designs are particularly nice to work with as they can easily be paired with other accents in a bathroom to tie the room together. 

Finding a similar fabric for blinds, curtains or other details can create a bold, colorful statement as well as delivering cohesion. We would recommend painting walls all one color when using lots of florals in the space, as this will prevent the room feeling overwhelming," says Anna Callis, founder and designer at London Basin Company. 

3. Combine a bold wallpaper with a blue ceiling

When you're working with a small space you can get really creative without being too hampered by budget as the smaller square footage will typically yield a lower spend needed on materials and furnishings. 

Spending some of your pot on a suitable small bathroom wallpaper idea you've had saved on your Pinterest mood board for ages is money well spent. 

Jamie, CEO of wallpaper company Divine Savages advises, "To use blue wallpaper effectively in a small bathroom, consider the tone and pattern carefully. Opt for light or medium shades of blue to enhance the sense of spaciousness, while avoiding darker shades that may make the room feel smaller."

Then, if you're feeling bold, paint your ceiling in a blue that matches one of the hues in the wallpaper, Jamie adds. "Be sure to team it with plenty of plain elements of the same color so as not to overwhelm the space. 

"These elements could be painting the ceiling, tiles, painted cupboards & other woodwork, or softer elements such as a Roman blind, shower curtain or even the towels. It all helps to balance the design and create a cohesive look."

4. Play with tile layouts

Small bathrooms are great for getting the creative juices flowing, and one way to do that is to play with tile layouts. Stripes are well known for making a ceiling feel taller so choose a wallpaper for that and add striped tiles for your shower area.

"Swathe vertical stripes across walls and up onto the ceiling as it's a great way of making a room look and feel much larger — a tried and tested trompe-l'œil as it draws the eye continuously up and away from the floor," advises Damla Turgut, founder and creative director, Otto Tiles.  

Wayfair's Channell Striped Roll in Blue is a great match to the wallpaper shown above and comes in seven subtle colorways. We love the retailer's nifty calculator to help you figure out how many rolls you need. Less maths, more style. Hurrah!

5. Navy and fresh white looks great together

There's something grounding about navy. It's not too dark, but deep enough to create an impact. Navy blue in a small bathroom looks stunning when paired with a modern white vanity and globe pendant, and contrasting with striking colored accessories as exampled in the real bathroom above.

Kimberley Harrison, founder and principal designer, Kimberley Harrison Interiors, designed the space and explains why this is a perfect blue for small bathrooms.

She says, "Our client was looking for a bold and sophisticated design for their small powder bathroom located off their game room. The use of blues, particularly the luxurious navy wall color paired with the light Emma Hayes Songbird wallpaper in navy & teal, aims to brighten up the space and create a relaxing and luxurious ambiance."

If you're yearning after a deep blue, we hear you. We love Benjamin Moore's Deep Royal 2061-10 which we reckon is a classic navy hue that channels elegance effortlessly. If you have an all white bathroom and want to keep it that way but love this look, consider adding distinguished navy with small bathroom paneling ideas.

Alternatively, add some accessories in the hue. We love the Kate and Laurel Skylan navy blue wall mirror on Amazon for its wooden design features and easy-to-hang installation hardware.

6. Consider a combination of patterns

If you don't fancy an all-blue bathroom, then white with blue touches is a good half-way house.

The charming small modern bathroom pictured above has lots of character, due to the variety of patterned blue areas. 

Whilst the vanity is the main source of blue and is a brighter shade than the painted sides of the tub, a mix of differently patterned tiles brings great depth to this small bathroom.

The geometric floor tiles link the brightness of the vanity with the muted blue of the tub's exterior, whilst the white of the interior links directly behind it with vertically stacked small-form wall tiling.

The result is a fabulous blue bathroom that's full of charm, isn't boring and ties cohesively together without overwhelming the room. 

To help you recreate this look, we've sourced some look alike items to the picture above, to get you started.

7. Choose a dark teal for drama

There's absolutely no reason why you can't choose a darker shade of blue in a small bathroom, in fact, it can help to make it feel more calming and serene. 

Teal works really well with wood cabinetry as it lightens up the space, choose a wallpaper that has a simple design so not to distract for the other elements. We love how the marble backsplash matches the damask design. 

For a similar wallpaper have a look at Wayfair's Damask Double Roll in Teal / Gold or, if you prefer painted teal walls then take a peek at Benjamin Moore's Dark Teal, 2053-20. 

8. Zone with a swathe of dark blue tiles

Embrace a beautiful inky blue to zone your bathing area and take it up and over the ceiling too for a truly all encompassing look that with added depth.

Smart and contemporary, these blue tiles create a bold and striking statement. Team with white for balance and add in some textures for warmth such as wicker storage ( we like the handwoven three-pack of StorageWorks Wicker Storage Baskets from Bed, Bath & Beyond) wood and fluffy white towels.

You'll find blue metro peel and stick tiles  available from many retailers including Walmart, who carry a budget-friendly Walplus 12" x 6" 12 sheets in Deep Blue .

9. Embrace a botanical theme

Choosing a blue theme can work very well in a small bathroom, starting with a mural wall covering that tells a story. It could be coastal for example, or similar to this blue linear palm tree style design pictured above.

Then you can accessorize to create more drama, large scale artwork and big mirror work really well in this space because they suit the mural design. Take the blue shade down to the skirtings to draw the eye down to a striking floor. 

One great way to add some fauna to your walls if you're in a rental is to add some wall decals to a plain blue walls, we like the renter-friendly  Wayfair Plants & Flowers Non-Wall Damaging Wall Decal to elevate your blue bathroom in no time.

10. Add blue accents to create depth

Small bathrooms can lack character and this is where paint comes into play. Blue is perhaps one of the favorite shades for a bathroom due to its connection to the coast. However, if you feel large swathes of blue isn't your bag, then start by using it as an accent instead, and choose a bright blue for this.

Annie Sloan CBE, color and paint expert explains, "When done well, using blue hues in a small bathroom like Greek Blue evokes a sense of tranquillity and openness, expanding the space both visually and emotionally. Done wrong, it can be cold, hostile or sterile.

"By embracing the innate rusticity of coastal aesthetics, you can turn the size of a small bathroom into an asset. Artfully textured distressed painting, multi-functional pieces of furniture (such as this chest of drawers) and color repetition are all great ways to maximise space, charm and character in a small bathroom."

Meet our experts

There's no doubt about it, blue certainly offers a calming feel in a bathroom even if its size is an issue and now you have plenty of ideas to mull over. 

If blue is your vibe, extend the scheme to your sleep space with blue bedroom ideas.

The best colors for south-facing rooms will make your sunshine room sizzle with serious style.

If you're blessed with this facing room and want to know how to make it shine even further, we've got you covered with advice from interior designers. From modern neutral colors to jewel tones, there is a shade for all design styles.

When it comes to choosing the best paint colors for your home, being mindful of how the sun hits it is important for making it look warm and inviting.

The best colors for south-facing rooms 

After learning how to paint a room like a pro, it's time to choose the perfect hue to help you nail the task first time around. Matching it to the orientation of your home will help eliminate that sinking feeling when it's all done and dry, and you hate the way it looks at all hours of the day and night. 

Where our interior design experts have suggested paint colors, we have sought out the closest matches possible. 

All prices were correct when this article was published.

1. Jewel tones

South-facing rooms get a lot of light and can therefore take much deeper colors well than other spaces. Complement the shimmery rays coming into your space with regal jewel tones that will bring all the Bridgerton design vibes.

“For a bit of drama and sophistication, consider incorporating bold jewel tones into your south-facing room,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

“A rich burgundy shade, for example, can add depth and personality to the space,” Nina adds. It's also one of the small space color trends for the year.

You can also try sapphire blue (Farrow and Ball's Drawing Room Blue is a clean, graphic shade) if you want to balance the warmth of the natural light entering your room.

2. Cool white

Reaching for a trusty neutral is a smart idea, as decorating white walls is a total breeze and offers countless options for accent colors around the room, as well as making it easy to swap seasonal decor and furnishings in and out without clashes.

“Using a cooler-toned white paint will counterbalance the naturally amber-based cast that will be in the space,” explains Carly Shafiroff, interior designer and founder of Carly Jane Design.

Carly’s go-to cool whites are Decorator's White by Benjamin Moore and Cloud Cover by Benjamin Moore, which are both dazzling shades that are worth grabbing tins of for your whole house.

3. Terracotta

If you enjoy bathing in the sun in your south-facing room, make it feel even more warm by bringing in a truly Mediterranean shade.

Nina says, “Earthy tones such as terracotta can bring a sense of groundedness and harmony to a south-facing room. This warm, earthy color pairs well with natural light and creates a welcoming and relaxed ambiance."

For those who love the shade but are hesitant to bring it in with paint, you could always try adding terracotta decorative accents such as the Mercury Row Throw Pillow from Wayfair. It's reversible, machine-washable, and comes complete with the correct insert.

4. Pastels

Don’t sleep on bringing in cute colors, as they can show off your playful personality and make your space feel ultra-cozy. We especially love seeing them paired with pretty spring home decor picks.

“Soft pastel shades like light lavender or blush pink can enhance the airy feel of a south-facing room,” Nina says. "Pastel colors reflect light beautifully and add a serene feeling to the space.”

You could bring in multiple pastels at once by picking the right wall art print, such as the My Room My Rules poster from Desenio which would look adorable hung up on a kids’ room wall and comes in two different sizes. 

Desenio's fun and colorful Candy Garden collection of artwork had the ladies in the Real Homes office swooning as we're all suckers for dopamine decorating and most of the pieces would complement your fun pastel paints whilst also adding texture — an easy way to add visual intrigue.

5. Metallics

If your south-facing room isn’t too big, bringing in metallic colors that can reflect light will make a small room look bigger.

Nina explains, “Shades like silver or gold can enhance the luminous quality of a south-facing room.”

Nina also suggests incorporating metallic finishes on light fixtures and mirrors (the Zadro Mirror from Saks has three-color light settings and brightness adjustability) to catch and reflect sunlight. 

Our budget swaps for Anthropologie's beautiful gold Gleaming Primrose Mirror, with French-inspired ornate detailing and floral crowns would be the perfect addition to any room.

6. Navy blue

Love your south-facing room’s glow but also are a fan of moody hues? We don’t blame you — they’re wonderfully relaxing and are one of the top interior design trends for the year.

“To create depth and contrast in a south-facing room, experiment with darker hues like navy blue,” Nina suggests. "Use this dark color strategically to anchor the space and add visual interest.”

Darker hues can create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, especially in larger south-facing rooms.

To include this in a more subtle way, you could always paint a side table this shade (or grab one already made with it, such the ABBSR Plant Pot Table from Walmart which has a detachable tray and is easy to clean).

7. Beige

If you want to really lean into the soft lighting coming into your space, bring this out even further by choosing a shade of beige.

“Beige complements the abundance of natural light and can be painted on both the walls and the ceiling,” Nina explains.

Alternatively, you can always bring it down low onto the floor, such as with the Cyrus Beige Rug from Ruggable pictured above which has four pad options, is washable, and comes in three different shapes.

Choosing the best colors for south-facing rooms is all about harnessing the natural light to create a harmonious home whatever the time of day.

Nina finishes by saying, “Experiment with different color combinations and textures to personalize your space and transform it into a welcoming haven filled with natural light and style.”

If you’re next painting project is on another aspect of your home, our guide on the best colors for north-facing rooms will set you on the right path.

Anthropologie's ornate Gleaming Primrose mirror is one of the hottest interior buys right now, rising to social media fame and spotted in the homes of celebs including Shay Mitchell and Joanna Gaines. Its stunning squoval shape (square oval) and gold floral embellishments have seen fans savings for months to buy theirs. 

But if you can't afford the price tag, we've tracked down a budget-friendly dead ringer for the viral gold Baroque buy in the Way Day sale. The Fleur De Lis Living Anglo Arendahl Traditional Accent Mirror, a 4.8-star $100 ornate gold squoval stunner has caught our eye, with a further 10% off ahead of the sale on May 4. And it's not that different from the original and utterly gorgeous Gleaming Primrose mirror. 

Find out more about both buys, below.

Shop Anthro's Gleaming Primrose Mirror – or Wayfair's lookalike

Anthropologie's Gleaming Primrose mirror is supremely versatile and suitable for any room, creating a striking contrast in homes with contemporary aesthetics, whilst also working perfectly with oh so current Bridgerton design ideas.

"The Gleaming Primrose Mirror from Anthropologie has captivated interior enthusiasts with its timeless allure and versatility," says interior designer Nina Lichtenstein. "Its popularity stems from its exquisite vintage charm, characterized by an ornate frame available in gold or antique black finishes, adding an elegant touch to any space."

Nina recommends how to style it for maximum effect.

"For a romantic look, pair it with soft, floral accents and vintage-inspired furniture," she says. "Alternatively, achieve a more eclectic vibe by juxtaposing it with modern furnishings for a striking contrast. No matter the setting, this mirror is a must-have for those seeking to infuse their space with sophistication and character."

Though there are Anthropologie sales to be had, the fan-favorite Gleaming Primrose mirror is rarely discounted. In reviews on the retailer's site, many shoppers admitted keeping it in their basket for months while they saved, or splurging on it at the first opportunity.

But if you're not ready, willing, or able to splurge, the Anglo Arendahl Traditional Accent Mirror is an excellent way to make your small space look luxe on a budget, sharing many features with Anthro's mirror. It's also available in six finishes including silver, black, bronze, white and gold. Anthro's mirror, on the other hand, is available in black or gold.

If neither of those are quite right for you, we've found three budget-friendly ornate gold mirrors that feature similar style elements to help you shop the Anthropologie Gleaming Primrose look for less.

More budget alternatives

Capture the essence of the social media-famous sensation with these swaps. 

Prices were correct at the time of publication. 

Meet our expert

FAQs

What style is the Anthropologie Gleaming Primrose mirror?

The Gleaming Primrose Mirror is a Baroque statement maker with its floral-like embellishments and a vintage gold-look finish. It's a luxe piece but designers argue its versatile and can slot in, or contrast in any room, regardless of the decor type, be it modern, classical, or minimalist.

"Whether hung on a wall to create a focal point, placed atop a console table for an entryway statement, positioned above a fireplace mantel to reflect warmth, or standing on the floor to lend a sense of grandeur, the Gleaming Primrose Mirror effortlessly complements various decor styles," Nina adds. 

Can't get enough of Anthro? Lou Rota's new Anthropologie tableware collection is "timeless and elegant with a touch of whimsy", and you're going to love it.

Finding the best colors for north-facing rooms is key if you want to warm up your room and give it a glow that the sun won't.

We've asked interior designers what colors they pick out to make a stunning splash in this space. Think light creamy white, warm and rich earthy terracotta, and gentle yellow. Basically, if your place doesn't have the Mediterranean's sunshine, you can simply bring its gorgeous color palette to it.

If you want to choose the best paint colors for your home, keeping in mind the direction of each room is key to making it truly shine.

The best colors for north-facing rooms, according to pros

Once you've learned how to paint a room, you can then move onto choosing a shade that is perfect for it, such as colors for north-facing rooms.

Our experts have recommended specific shades throughout, which we have shopped wherever possible.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Warm neutrals

If you don’t want to constantly switch up your paint color, picking a neutral shade that will work with all interior design ideas is a brilliant move.

“Opt for soft neutral colors like soft whites for north-facing rooms,” suggests Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

Alternatively, you can also go for a gorgeous warm white to add warmth to the room,

“One of my go-to recommendations is a creamy white like Benjamin Moore's Simply White,” explains Ryan Fitzgerald, design expert and owner of Raleigh Realty.

“It has just a whisper of yellow undertones that gently brightens and enhances the natural light,” he says.

In terms of what to swerve, Nina suggests avoiding stark whites, as they may appear too harsh in rooms with limited natural light. 

2. Soft pastels

Don’t panic — even in north-facing rooms, you can still bring a pop of gorgeous personality into it.

Nina explains, “Introduce gentle pastel shades like soft blue and blush pinks to infuse a north-facing room with color while maintaining a tranquil ambiance.”

She adds, “These warm pastels add depth and personality without weighing down the space.”

One of our favorite blues is Farrow and Ball’s Borrowed Light, which is aptly named for bringing brightness into north-facing rooms.

3. Gentle yellow

For those searching for the best paint colors for small bathrooms or kitchens, we’re into the idea of bringing in sweet and cheerful colors.

“For kitchens and bathrooms, counteract the lack of light with gentle yellow or warm off-white tones — think Benjamin Moore's Muslin,” says Ryan.

“The sunny disposition makes these practical spaces feel open and airy,” he adds.

Ryan suggests grounding these with mid-tone greige cabinets or accent walls to add a beautiful balance to the space.

4. Rich terracotta

Turn your home into a Mediterranean-inspired oasis by opting for  terracotta, which is a stunning color for north-facing rooms.

Ryan says, “If you want to go a little bolder, consider earthy terracotta shades that effortlessly infuse radiant warmth.”

He continues, “I think Benjamin Moore's Brick Red has a lovely golden orange undertone without veering into primary pumpkin territory.”

You can either use this on accent walls or paint smaller strokes to highlight architectural detailing in your home. Helpfully, this is also one of the best colors for south-facing rooms, so you can grab a whole tin for your house if you like.

5. Sage green

Whether you’re looking for spring interior design ideas or not, reaching for nature-inspired colors for north-facing rooms is a lovely way to bring the outside in. 

Pale greens and blues evoke a sense of serenity and freshness in north-facing rooms. 

“I like to choose sage greens to create a calming atmosphere in your home,” Nina says.

She adds, “These colors work particularly well in bedrooms or bathrooms, where a tranquil ambiance is desired.”

For those looking for green small bathroom ideas, sage green would look great either painted on a vanity or across all the walls.

6. Greige

While dark grays are the worst colors for small spaces and north-facing rooms, warmer grays are a sophisticated alternative.

“For a living room or bedroom, I love velvety greige paint colors which create an incredibly cozy, inviting ambiance,” Ryan says.

One of Ryan’s favorites is Benjamin Moore’s Balboa Mist, which is one of those shades that will go with anything.

“Add in layers of warm textiles, natural wood accents, and pops of cheerful color through artwork or accent pillows,” he continues.

7. Metallics

Go for major glamor by picking a paint color with shimmery shades, so you can make your whole place look beautiful and bright.

“Metallic or satin paint will help bounce light around the room, enriching your north-facing room,” suggests Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

“Pair these up with mirrors to add even more reflectiveness, which is also a great way to make a small room appear bigger,” he adds.

You can also bring in a mirror with a silver border for the best of both worlds, such as the Jamie Young Co. Arch Mirror from Saks.

Both our experts also recommend grabbing sample pots and creating swatch boards to test your chosen shades at different times of day, before leaping a full tin.

“With a little bit of planning and know-how, you can absolutely embrace those north-facing rooms as serene, cozy sanctuaries rather than dark holes,” Ryan finishes by saying.

If making your room look current and fresh is important to you as well, you may also want to find out the interior design color trends for the year.

Fancy a trip to the English countryside? Ruggable x Morris & Co.'s latest drop will transport you without stepping foot outside of the house, and it's all available beginning April 25.

After the brands' initial collaboration in 2023, the powerhouses decided to join forces once again for 15 new pieces that celebrate spring. Expect rich prints, floral accents, and soft shades. 

If you haven't already, it's time to reset your space for spring and add some rustic charm to your home.

See the new Ruggable x Morris & Co. drop

Ruggable x Morris & Co.'s latest collection, 14 indoor rugs and one doormat to be exact, lends itself to an old-school charm, and the pieces add the perfect finishing touch to any farmhouse bedroom idea and rustic living room aesthetic. 

"Inspired by vintage botanical designs, this collection brings heritage design, reimagined for modern life in a soft, spring-centered palette," according to Ruggable. "Blooming with brand-new prints and delightful details, the whimsical designs celebrate the beauty of nature."

Whether you're in search of spring home decor ideas or want something more permanent for your space, these versatile, washable, and durable selections could fit the bill. Each option comes in a variety of sizes, and prices start at $129. 

Real Homes staff writer, Eve Smallman, is already clearing her living room to make room for one of the collab's latest additions. 

"I have my eye on the Meadow Sweet pattern (available on Ruggable), which I think will look gorgeous in my Scandi-inspired living room that's filled with indoor plants and flowers," she says. "I'm going to pair it with light wooden furniture, a gold floor lamp, and a soft pink couch, which will complement the tones and allow the pattern to really pop."

Sounds like the perfect combo to us! All that's missing is a cup of tea resting on a nearby table.

What to shop

Ready to execute those small living room ideas? Here's how to get the creative juices flowing:

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In addition to another partnership with Morris & Co., the new Ruggable x Justina Blakeney collection includes 19 rugs with her signature boho aesthetic that run the gamut, including geometric-patterned neutrals and kaleidoscopic floral patterns. 

Should Morris & Co.'s aesthetic speak to you, consider an addition from the regal Ruggable x Bridgerton collab, inspired by the series’ motifs, and six modern regency designs in a variety of shapes and sizes. Of course, the line is luxe living room decor at its finest and is sure to impress even the likes of Queen Charlotte. 

If you're still searching for inspo, Magnolia by Joanna Gaines x Loloi just dropped new rugs and throw pillows that includes "brown-toned neutrals and vintage-inspired motifs, along with elegant navy and aqua colors for a timeless selection of styles." The Magnolia x Loloi Mona Oatmeal Multi Rug has become a springtime favorite amongst shoppers.

If you're in need of a cozy reading spot, Hilary Duff's accent chair is the perfect living room addition. 

The How I Met Your Father star took to Instagram to share her comfy accent chair in a gorgeous maternity photoshoot. We couldn't help but notice her coordinating neutral decor and took some styling inspiration. 

Our design pros weigh on how to recreate the look with some small living room ideas that are sure to upgrade your set-up.

Hilary Duff's accent chair reading nook

Hilary shared a dreamy reading nook in her space, which looks ideal for a neutral small living room. The actress and singer is shown relaxing with a furry friend on her lap, surrounded by chic decor pieces. 

"Hilary Duff has mastered the cozy effect with an elevated take on the bean bag chair. Ideal for a nook of any kind, her neutral, all-encompassing accent chair evokes a calming vibe and begs you to take a breather with a cup of tea," says content editor, Danielle Valente.

Styling one of the best accent chairs for small spaces in a neutral room like Hilary's creates a chill atmosphere for unwinding after a long day. A large seat like hers can also act as a substitute for a large sofa if you don't have room for one.

"The relaxing aesthetic is complemented by her beige curtains and simple wall art, making this part of her living room a refreshing retreat. It's elegant and tasteful, all while being super snuggly," says Danielle.

How to recreate the look

Recreating Hilary's set-up is pretty simple with the right styling tips. Investing in the right small-space furniture is the first step, and Hilary's accent chair is a great alternative to bulky sofas or sectionals. 

Elevate the look of a bean bag chair (which may be a little too reminiscent of dorm furniture for a grown-up pad) with a padded accent chair large enough to sink into. For another celeb-inspired idea, The Drew Chair by Drew Barrymore is just the right size and shape to recreate the look.

Once your chair is secured, you'll need to add some decor accent around the room. Add some neutral curtains like these Threshold linen curtains available from Target to your living room windows. Pro tip: adding floor-length curtains will help make the windows look larger overall. 

Hilary incorporates wall decor into her living room with a minimalist framed illustration. This abstract line art poster from Desenio creates a similar effect. Sometimes less is more and one simple piece can really make a statement. 

Want to add a little more interest to your space? Break up the neutrals with a few extra pieces in your favorite color. "If you're looking to take things in a slightly different direction with a fun pop of color, style a chair like this with a printed throw pillow and knit blanket," says Danielle. 

If you're a neutrals fan through and through, apply Hilary's styling tips throughout the whole house. Neutral bedroom ideas will turn your sleeping space into the perfect sanctuary for a good night's sleep. Or embrace the spa look and try some neutral small bathroom ideas like marble accents and warm wooden materials.

In case you missed it, the Victoria Beckham birthday party photos are making the rounds on Instagram. These snaps not only capture a star-studded celebration but the gorgeous entryway of VB's Hyde Park, London, home. 

Before ringing in her 50th, the designer and Spice Girl gathered her family for snaps in her sophisticated hallway, showcasing a gorgeous black mirror and stunning chandelier. We asked our design experts how to recreate the swoon-worthy style, including mirror options, plant tips and functional pieces to make this work for you.

Take inspiration from VB's home when working in your small entryway mirror ideas, and let our interior pros help you nail Victoria's chic interior style.

See the Victoria Beckham birthday party pics — and her impeccable style

Regardless of whether you have a big space to work with, or are in need of small entryway ideas, the intimate pre-party photos from Victoria's birthday bash are a masterclass in channeling bold but minimalist luxe vibes. 

"For a striking look in your front entryway, go for a less is more approach like Victoria," says Emily Lambe, deputy editor at Real Homes. "She embraces clean lines with a black mirror frame, contrasting the white molding on the wall."

Ready to make the look your own?

1. Take a minimalist approach

There's a bold statement piece at the heart of Victoria's space, brought to life by embracing minimalist entryway ideas and letting the accents like her mirror and chandelier speak for themselves. 

In small spaces in particular, we know less really is more and a pared back look with a few key statement pieces will help welcome guests into a beautiful, impactful yet uncluttered entryway.

RH's deputy editor Emily has some more small-space friendly ideas to bring Victoria's style into your home. 

She says, "Add balance with two wall sconces on either side, then add some greenery to break up the monochrome look. The result will look bold while still somewhat understated and minimal."

2. Get creative with lighting

Small entryway lighting mistakes can throw off the whole feng shui of the space, and you don't want to ruin the ambiance. Carefully choose where you're putting your light source to make a great first impression when guests arrive. 

"I like to hang entryway mirrors opposite the door, as this reflects plenty of light into the space — a great way to make a small entryway look bigger," says Eve Smallman, staff trends writer at Real Homes. "You can place a console table underneath it with indoor plants like Victoria has to make it even more of a focal point."

Should you not be working with much in the way of space, you can also get small shelving units for your favorite plant babies.

"If you have a smaller area without much floor space, you can hang open wall shelves on either side with plants on for a similar effect," Eve adds. 

The niffgaff Mail and Key Holder Shelf on Amazon is a good starting point and we particularly love how it's not only stylish, but multifunctional with space for decor as well as keys, coats and more. The sleek matte black color will keep the VB minimalist look going without overwhelming the space.

Interior designer Nina Lichtenstein says, "Position the mirror strategically to maximize natural light and create the illusion of space. Placing it opposite a window or a light source can brighten up your entryway and make it feel more open. Notice how Victoria’s mirror reflects a gorgeous chandelier."

3. Go the DIY route

From mirror tricks to plant additions, there are plenty of DIY small entryway ideas to zhush up your space à la Victoria. 

"Victoria’s mirror has beautiful intricate detailing around the frame, which gives it a striking look," Eve notes. "You could DIY this yourself by painting a vintage mirror in a glossy black."

Try a quart of Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Ultra Cover Gloss Black General Purpose Paint from Home Depot, which is a fast-drying, super smooth latex paint. The bump free result will your space look like a celebrity home without the Hollywood price tag.

4. Pay attention to color

What works particularly well in Victoria's home is the contrast of the mirror with the rest of the space, proving why color choices are so important. 

"Whatever mirror you choose, opting for a neutral wall base like Victoria has is a smart move, as this will allow your bold mirror to really pop," Eve adds. 

It'll also make sure a guest's attention will instinctively move to the focal point you've set up in your entryway. The pictures taken ahead of the Victoria Beckham birthday party prove this point. Even with her lovely family lined up and smiling for the camera, your attention is drawn to the beautiful surroundings of her home. Bingo!

5. Keep function in mind

Ensure that your entryway mirror serves a purpose beyond aesthetics," Nina says. "Use it for last-minute outfit checks before heading out, or consider placing a small basket or hooks nearby for storing everyday essentials like umbrellas or hats."

What to shop

According to Eve, the Gleaming Primrose Mirror in Antique Black from Anthropologie is highly rated by shoppers and is always all over Instagram feeds, if you don't want to go the DIY painting route. 

And it's no wonder the piece is one of Anthropologie's all-time bestselling styles. It has ornate yet dainty detailing, is wide enough to make a big impact in your small space and we love the fact each piece is handcrafted, making each one unique.

If that one isn't quite right for you, we love these minimalis mirror options, too. 

Of course, Posh Spice is the epitome of style. Channel more styles from her London home by taking a peek at Victoria Beckham's moody bathroom style and Victoria Beckham's kitchen, a rustic yet modern look you'll love.  

Lou Rota has teamed up with Anthropologie for a new playful yet elegant line of kitchen accessories that will inspire you in more ways than one.

The former natural history documentary producer's love of entomology has not only shaped the new additions to the Anthro Mother Nature collection, but inspired thrilled Anthropologie shoppers to use the pretty items as wall-mounted decor. 

The beautiful kitchenware with floral and insect-inspired accents is flying off the shelves so take a peek while working on your spring home decor ideas — we're confident it'll make its way onto your wish list. 

Shop the Lou Rota x Anthropologie Mother Nature collab

Vases with birds, plates with giraffes, spoon rests with bumble bees — Lou Rota's Mother Nature Anthro line is an animal lover's dream and too sweet to resist, so figure out ways to maximize space in your small kitchen and make room for the collection, be it on your on table, or on display.

"Lou Rota has long been a fan favorite among our customers," says Julie Gwin, the retailer's Associate Director of Collaborations: Home, Apparel and Accessories. "Her creations are timeless and elegant with a touch of whimsy, making them a true collector’s item.

"It’s always a delight to see the creative ways our collectors style them too, often showcasing her plates hung as decorative art on their walls."

Whether you're planning on using the plates as hosting essentials for Sunday brunch, a Mother's Day treat, or styling them around the kitchen to make a statement on their own, you're going to fall in love with everything about them: colors, textures, prints, and more.

"We especially enjoy pairing her pieces with our Lilypad and Lyla dinnerware collections, and recently introduced her own dinner plate for layering as well," Julie adds. 

Consider adding a rustic charm to your Lou Rota tablescape with Anthropologie's Color Weave Round Seagrass Placemats for $16, and pair your setup with Anthro's Farmhouse Pottery Petite Gingham Scalloped Napkins ($85, set of four) or the colorful, botanical Meera Napkins ($48, set of four). 

Enhance the nature-inspired theme with fresh florals and accent the table with candles of varying sizes (while still being able to see your guests, of course). 

What to shop

Have you figured out the best ways to organize cabinets in a small kitchen yet? Heed our warning that you're going to love this beautiful collection and will need more space in your cabinets for it!

For similar dinnerware options with just as much charm as Lou's latest drop, Anthropologie x Alexandra Farmer and the Anthropologie Turkuaz Kitchen collab offer adorable accessories for your table. Trust us, these beautiful buys will surely get the conversation started at your next dinner party. Don't forget to shop the current Anthropologie sales while you're at it!

We've seen 2000s interior design trends come back and we could not be more thrilled about it. Give us all the bold colors and metallic shimmer, and hand us a glitter gel pen to write this article with.

If you're as excited about this as we are, we've got you covered with top noughties inspired decorating tips from designers, as well as insight from a psychologist about why we're all reaching for nostalgic styles at the moment.

For those searching for interior design trends that have been popular in the past (and are now back!), it's time to dial up your time machines and set the date back to the 2000s.

The 2000s interior design trends making a comeback

Before we delve into all things 2000s (we have a guide on what Y2K style is), we sat down and figured out exactly why nostalgic designs have exploded back onto the scene the way they have.

“We find the inclusion of nostalgic elements in our homes comforting as they remind us of a time when we felt safe and secure,” says Dr Meg Arroll, psychologist and author of Tiny Traumas (Thorsons).

She continues, “Nostalgia helps us to connect our present lives to personal meaning and our core values and can increase confidence to face the challenges ahead with a more optimistic perspective.

“Go ahead and dive into whatever retro and vintage looks take your fancy in the knowledge that nostalgia can be beneficial in these challenging times,” she adds.

We’re all set to help you do just that, with expert advice and these gorgeous 2000s shoppable picks.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Bold wallpaper

Bold and colorful wallpaper was a hallmark of 2000s interior design. Now, people are using them to showcase personalities in their homes after a stint of more muted interior looks.

“Embrace this trend by incorporating vibrant wallpaper in smaller doses, such as an accent wall or within panels,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

“Choose contemporary patterns and color palettes that feel fresh and complement your overall decor scheme,” she suggests.

Renters can do this with the best peel-and-stick wallpaper. This is also a useful option if you want to be able to switch up your home’s style on the regular.

2. Open shelving

Having decorative elements out in the open was big in the 2000s. Now, popular styles have now pivoted from boring minimalistic homes with barely any decor back to this approach.

Nina says, “Opt for sleek and minimalist open shelving units to display curated collections or functional items.”

She suggests mixing photo frames and indoor plants (the Wekiva Foliage String of Turtles from Walmart will look great on shelves) with practical storage to create a visually appealing and organized display.

3. Metallic accents

Metallic finishes were super hot in 2000s interior design, thanks to how easily they add sparkle and shine. We’ve always thought they were a timeless choice, and it’s clear now everyone is back on the same page.

“Metallic finishes were widely popular in the 2000s, from shiny brass to sleek silver. Bring this trend into the present by integrating metallic accents through hardware, lighting fixtures, or decorative accessories,” Nina says.

If you don’t want to go too OTT, simply select subdued metallic shades like brushed gold (the Goldenwarm Cabinet Pulls from Amazon are an easy solution) or matte black for a sophisticated touch.

4. Bright wall art

Hands up if your bedroom walls were covered with posters from magazines in the 2000s? Same. You’ll be pleased to hear that wall art is back in a big way.

“Pop art defined 2000s decor, and is so easy to bring in with playful artwork,” Nina says. “You can either balance these neutral backdrops or contrast them with fun wallpaper to create a cohesive and energetic finish."

For example, we have the Pop Art Perfume Poster from Desenio (one of our favorite places to get cheap wall art from, FYI) in our carts, and are picturing it above our makeup vanities.

5. Colorful kitchens

When you’re cooking up a storm in your kitchen, having your place match all the good vibes you’re bringing to your dishes is a fun idea.

“A notable trend making a comeback is the use of minimalistic design with bursts of bold colors,” says Nick Chatzigeorgakis, design expert and CEO of Intrabuild. “This can be particularly seen in kitchens where clients crave both a sleek, modern look and energetic vibes that reflect '00s pop culture."

In a recent kitchen renovation, Nick reintroduced the 2000s interior design trend of integrating bold colors by installing a vibrant backsplash and cabinets. Nick says replicating this will captivate the essence of Y2K flair in any kitchen, whether you’re looking for large or small kitchen colors.

If you can’t change your kitchen cabinets colors, you could always go for small kitchen appliances in bold shades, such as the Smeg Pink Kettle that’s Amazon’s Choice.

6. Shabby chic

We love boho style decor, and the most Instagrammable iteration of this — shabby chic — is a 2000s interior design trend that’s here again.

“Shabby chic is having a moment. You know the look — super cozy with distressed wood, pretty embroidered pillows, and vintage embellishments,” explains Adrian Pedraza, design expert and owner of The California Home Buyer.

She suggests starting with crisp white walls, and then adding in some sage greens or soft pinks to warm it up.

“Go hit up some second hand furniture stores or antique shops to find great pieces such as arched mirrors or dressers with that chipped paint look,” Adrian adds.

If you’d rather treat yourself to a new piece, the Fabianna Throw Pillow from Anthropologie is a stylish combo of Y2K colors and shabby chic textures.

7. Statement rugs

One of our top ways to transform a room is by throwing down a statement rug, which is a 2000s interior design trend we’re pleased to see is here.

“Large, graphic rugs were a staple in 2000s interiors, and you can update this trend by choosing ones with contemporary patterns,” Nina says.

Our staff writer Eve Smallman has the Ruggable Barbie Dreamworld Rug and says it has added just the right amount of color and chicness to her living area.

Spread these 2000s interior design trends throughout the home for a playful look that bridges old and new in an appealing way. 

“With careful curation, 2000s style absolutely still has its place in 2024 interiors,” Adrian finishes by saying.

If you want to carry on decorating with trends, living room trends are easy to bring in and will impress your guests.

The moment has come, Swifties: Tortured Poets Department has arrived, ushering us into a new Taylor Swift era not just musically, but stylistically, too.

The pop star's latest album sports a moody, academic vibe, reminiscent of famed wordsmiths penning tales of love and loss (someone might want to check in on Swift's ex, Joe Alwyn). Our design pros reveal how to channel the look at home.

If you're ready to nail dark decorating ideas (Taylor's version), our interior designers have the answers — think vintage typewriters, quills, and heavy notebooks filled with glossy black ink. Let's dive in.

How to get the Tortured Poets Department' look at home

Whether you're mapping out small office upgrades or embracing dark academia in other areas of your home, Taylor Swift's new album will no doubt help spark those creative juices. 

A library-esque Spotify pop-up has just been unveiled in Los Angeles, California, to celebrate the album release, and it's every English major's dream — and those ideas are easy to copy when making tweaks in your space. 

"It's clear Taylor is embracing a somber and neutral aesthetic for this album, along the lines of her Folklore and Evermore eras," says Real Homes deputy editor Emily Lambe, the team's resident Swiftie. "Channel some dark academia vibes and turn your space into a tortured poet's library with a few decor items that represent the passage of time — a wooden clock, dried flowers, and statue busts."

Ready to get started?

Prices were correct at time of publishing.

1. Choose the right color

The best colors to paint a small office (and beyond) when going for an academic vibe are moody hues. 

"Opt for deep shades of burgundy, navy blue, forest green, and rich plum to create a sense of drama and introspection," says interior designer Nina Lichtenstein. 

Emily also suggests playing with charcoal gray tones and adding dimension with brass accent pieces. 

2. Add vintage elements

Folks, it's time to get your #ThriftTok on. 

"Seek out antique and vintage furniture pieces and decor items to capture the timeless and romantic allure of Taylor's aesthetic," Nina adds. "Look for ornate mirrors, vintage typewriters, old books, musical instruments, and distressed wooden furniture to infuse your space with a sense of history and nostalgia."

Emily suggests accentuating the area with items like lace textiles, bird cages, and globes. The CALIDAKA Geographic Antique Globe from Amazon and the Stratton Home Decor Farmhouse Wood and Metal Birdcage from Walmart are good starting points. 

"And of course, don't forget a typewriter and a fountain pen to write down your own poetry," she adds. 

3. Create a book nook

As any good poet knows, styling a book nook is a necessity when embracing an academic look. Where else are you supposed to read and feel inspired?

"Arrange a comfortable armchair or chaise lounge with soft cushions and throws," Nina says. "Add a vintage floor lamp for atmospheric lighting and stack books of poetry or Taylor's albums nearby for inspiration."

4. Choose warm lighting

And of course, you'll want to top off your Tortured Poets Department look with the proper lighting. 

"Enhance the ambiance with soft lighting and candles to create a warm and inviting atmosphere," Nina says. "Use string lights, table lamps with fabric shades, and scented candles to add a touch of romance and intimacy to your Tortured Poets Department-inspired home."

Our guide of the best scented candles can point you in the proper direction for a blissful olfactory experience.

Meet our experts

Love all things Taylor? We've asked the experts for Taylor Swift decor ideas for her every era, if you're feeling more Reputation or Fearless, than Tortured Poets Department.

The latest Ashley furniture sale is getting shoppers prepared for the summer, kicking off seasonal discounts early. 

Whether you're searching for furniture or mattresses, the early Ashley Memorial Day sale offers customers plenty of savings: outdoor deals from $79.99, living room discounts from $69.99, and yes, you can cash in on these promos ahead of the annual holiday on May 27. 

If you're thinking about refreshing your space for summer, why not have a look at the offerings — we've cherry picked the best of the bunch.

Shop the Ashley Furniture sale 

Ashley Furniture sale quicklist

Considered the biggest discounted selection yet, the Ashley Memorial Day sale has lots of furniture and mattress offers running from now until June 3, several days after the holiday has come and gone. See where else the retailer is slashing prices in the quick list below: 

• Ashley Furniture clearance, up to 50% off (online only)
• Ashley Furniture sale living room deals from $69.99
• Ashley Furniture sale outdoor deals from $79.99
• Ashley Furniture dining room deals from $89.99
• Ashley Furniture bedroom deals from $199

Additionally, the sale offers "Furniture Hot Buys", which are special deals on Ashley Furniture that are likely to sell out quickly, so make sure you're not sleeping on any of the savings up for grabs, including couches, beds, dining sets and outdoor furniture.

Ashley living room deals

A small living room refresh is welcome with the change of seasons. Here are a few pieces to help get the ball rolling this summer.

Ashley dining room deals

Cheers! Now that BBQ season is back, you're going to have plenty of guests stopping by for dinner. If you're eating in the comfort of your AC, these dining room buys will bring all the welcoming vibes. 

Ashley Furniture sale decor deals

Designers recommend seven new outdoor decor trends to elevate your backyard space. Which ones do you like?

FAQs

Is Ashley Furniture easy to assemble?

Customer reviews indicate that Ashley Furniture pieces are easy to assemble. If the product you purchased requires assembly, instructions will be placed in the packaging to guide you throughout the process. 

If you need assistance, you can contact the retailer's customer care department at 866-436-3393 or via the Ashley website's help centre. You'll be asked to provide your name, your email address or mailing address, and the item numbers for the products that needs to be put together so have the details handy.

Additionally, Ashley Furniture offers a No-Hassle Delivery and Assembly option that see the items delivered to your place and set them up in the room of your choosing. However, the crew will not take old furniture away. 

Check out the store's pre-delivery tips should you need a little guidance before your new furniture arrives.

Can I return Ashley Furniture if I don't like it?

Shoppers can return purchases, should there be an issue with their items. The Ashley Furniture Return Policy details how customers can go about bringing back their items. 

Within 30 days of delivery of an online purchase, you are eligible for a refund or an exchange. Should the item in question get damaged during the shipping process, call Ashley Customer Care at 866-436-3393 within 72 hours. Once the item is received, the store will refund the cost of the item, minus the shipping and handling fees. 

If you want to return something you purchased in the store, the retailer suggests checking the terms that were provided to you when you purchased the item, as these conditions can vary by product and location. 

Mattresses and foundations may only be returned if delivered damaged or later found to be defective, according to the retailer. Should this be the case, contact the care department within 72 hours to figure out a way to proceed. After the 72 hours have passed, you'll need to consult the manufacturer's warranty, if applicable.

Some clearance items state "all sales are final" so if you have any questions about your right to return, contact the retailer directly before purchasing.

What is comparable to Ashley Furniture?

If you are looking for similar styles and price points in home decor, peruse these retailers for your next find: 

• Home Depot Mother's Day Savings
• IKEA new lower prices
• Target home deals
• Walmart Flash Deals
• Wayfair Mother's Day Deals

Still feeling summery? We can't blame you! The latest Walmart sale will get your home summer-ready with thousands of discounts — including lookalikes on viral buys and genius gardening goodies.

I live in a newly-built home and when we moved in, everything was painted top-to-bottom Brilliant White. Ceilings, doors, walls, windowsills — everything was a blank canvas. I vowed I'd paint everything straight away, but you know how life is. 

Three years later, I finally booked a few days off work, determined to turn my Pinterest small home-office mood board into a dopamine-decor reality by painting the walls and ceiling. I thought it would be straight forward, but I learned a few key things I wish I'd known before starting. I'm sharing them to save you the hassle of learning them the hard way, like I did.

In my experience, when painting the ceiling, there are six essential things to consider, and having just completed a second ceiling-painting weekender, I can confirm these really do make this DIY task easier.

What I learned painting ceilings in my home

People tell you adding color to the fifth wall in your space will add drama and draw the eye up, creating the illusion of space and making small offices look bigger — but they don't tell you explicitly that it'll also zap the light right out of the room. 

Here's what I learned, the products that did and didn't work, and what I did differently the second time around.

1. It really will feel darker

I wasn't oblivious to the fact the room would feel darker if the ceiling wasn't white anymore, but it shocked me how much of the natural light, and illumination from the ceiling lamp light, would be sucked straight into the terracotta-colored paint I chose for my small study (thankfully not one of the worst colors to paint a small office).

I was gunning for a 'womb-like' coziness and this color really delivered on that front. But there was an unexpected side-effect. Before painting the ceiling, my white north-facing home office was just fine with a lone ceiling light on in the day, or none at all. Afterwards, I had to add multiple small office lighting ideas to make it comfortable to work in, even on the brightest of days.

Adding lamps is a simple and enjoyable fix, especially if you love shopping for homeware as I do, but it was an unexpected expense I hadn't budgeted for in the initial project. 

To fix the lack of illumination after painting the ceiling, I added a Dunelm paint-it-yourself Bobby Lamp (available in UK only) with a bright LED bulb behind where I sit and work (because the already colored ones were too expensive for an unexpected expense). In the USA, the Kee 62" Floor Lamp from Wayfair is gorgeous and a similar look to mine.

I also added string lights in front of me, which are lovely and cozy and offer enough light to offset the brightness of my computer screen against the darker wall behind it.

In our primary bedroom, which we painted after the terracotta study (this terracotta from Behr paint is a close match), I picked a lighter paint shade — a light neutral with a hint of pink — because... well, lesson learned the first time. I tempered the temptation to go for as dark a shade, even though our bedroom is south-facing and super bright all-year round.

I also tested a few sample pots of color on the wall, in three different aspects of the room, and let it sit for a few days so I could view how the color looked in different areas of natural light (one in shade, one in bright light, and one I'd spend a lot of time looking at by my dressing table), by day, dusk, and night, and on dark vs bright days. I live in the UK so there are a lot of gloomy, gray days!

The result of waiting it out a few days and viewing it on different walls was confidently picking a shade slightly darker than I was originally brave enough for. My toasted almond neutral paint sample splodges had proven to be fine in the day, with no need for extra illumination. 

At night however, the ceiling light isn't enough anymore. Because of this, I'm getting another Bobby lamp with bright LED bulb (and I'm painting it red because the room is currently looking a bit sterile and in need of a few pops of color).

2. Not all ceiling rollers are created equal

The one I used initially had a flat pile and kept sliding on the ceiling when I rolled it. It's worth noting I have chronic pain and could only manage short bursts of painting before calling in my husband to finish the rest, but he had the same experience. 

I had planned ahead and bought a roller on an extendable pole to make it easy to paint whilst still firmly standing on the ground. However, my one kept spinning around, and the roller head slid off the pole a few times, scratching the plaster on my ceiling.

I'd picked that item on account of it being cheaper and lighter in weight to the more expensive option (and to make it easier on my herniated neck discs), but actually, it wasn't helpful. It also meant when you applied pressure to roll, either the left side or the right side was in firm contact with the ceiling, but not both. 

The cheapness of the product meant it kept coming apart, making the process longer and more difficult than it had to be and ultimately resulting in more corrective rolling and repeated strokes to cover uneven paint distribution.

Interior designer Nicole Cullum, says, "Save your back by using a paint stick to extend your roller (such as Lowe's Project Source telescopic extension pole or try their WHIZZ Ceiling and Walls Roller, highly-rated by customers) ), use medium to thin coats of paint on your roller, and apply long strokes for a smooth, even application. Avoid dipping your roller fully into the paint tray with a heavy saturation that will splatter, drip, and leave roller marks along the ceiling."

The second time around, when we painted our bedroom ceiling, we invested in a sturdy one. It was heavier but worked much better (for my husband, that is, as I had to bow out quickly because of my neck pain). 

We also went for a fluffier roller (the Harris long pile ceiling roller sleeves available on Amazon), which stopped the sliding around when the roller was heavily saturated with paint.

3. It'll take longer than you think

Painting the ceiling is tiring on the arms, painful on the neck and upper back, and surprisingly much more effort than painting the walls or dare I say it, color drenching. You also need to strike a careful balance of loading up your roller with enough paint to get a decent go out of every reload, but also not too much that it splatters everywhere (including a dusting of paint on your face, so invest in goggles).

In the end, I opted for slightly overloading the rollers and doing a long run across the ceiling to minimize drip (though we covered everything with painters sheets) and still get a good amount of surface area covered each time. 

In the primary bedroom, this method sent a sizeable glob flying towards my fitted floor to ceiling navy blue closet. Luckily, the heavy duty plastic sheets we'd snuggly covered them up with caught the brunt (try heavy duty plastic tarp available on Amazon).

Nicole says, "Although ceiling paint is formulated to be less prone to drips and splatter, accidents still happen during the painting process. Remove any furniture, rugs, or valuables if you can, and cover the floor with a drop cloth, or heavy duty contractors paper, then cover any remaining furniture and wrap your light fixture with plastic sheeting."

If like me you have chronic pain, do get a friend, partner or anyone you can rope in to come help. For me, both painting the ceiling tasks led to painful flares I needed days of recovery and lots of painkillers for.

Even for the fit, healthy and able-bodied, like my husband, he still ended up with a sore back and was tired at the end of it. Take breaks, do each task in manageable chunks and if it rolls over (no pun intended) to day two or three, don't fret. It will still look all neat and even when you're finished and it's dried off. I know this for certain because that’s what I did with my study — painting it over a few days.

Use a plastic bag to tie around your rollers and paint brushes (or get a few paint brush bags such as the Allway Store reusable wet paint brush protectors on Amazon) and they'll stay wet, crust-free and ready to carry on when you are.

4. Invest in good painters sheets

The first time around, I bought the cheapest paint sheets and they were a complete pain. They tore easily, and every time I walked or moved, they blew up into bubble pockets and at some points, lifted up and touched the wet walls being painted too.

Though modern paints are nowhere near as smelly and fume-filled as before, they still have a smell, so you'll need the windows open wide for comfort (it's hot work rolling all that paint, too). 

The second time, we invested in much thicker ones that did not budge, tear or move and made life easier (such as the High Density Painters Plastic Sheeting at The Home Depot).

When painting a room yourself, there are things you can skimp on, such as having your hardware store mix up a dupe of an expensive paint, without much ill-effect. My advice is to save money on paint and instead invest in good kit.

5. The way you paint isn't the be-all and end-all

The way paint looks when it's wet and with overlapping brush or roller marks used to incite perfectionism panic in me, but my daughter, who is seven, made a perfectly good point whilst she was tackling the lower half of the study's walls.

She said, "Nobody is going to see it apart from us, and the friends we invite over. And, if they see a bit that isn't perfect, they are not going to be unkind and point it out."

Sage words from my kiddo, entirely true, and a game changer in my stress levels during this DIY task. The reality is by the time the paint fully dries, the only things that will remain remotely visible are patches you've missed when painting, or thick blobs of paint you didn't roll out.

Other than that, most paints rolls on really smooth and looks great when it is dry. Don't sweat it. Use the W method, go in straight lines, or go crazy like my daughter did and paint in all directions. In the end, it usually all dries well and looks great.

Nicole adds, "I like to give any paint surface at least two coats to ensure full coverage. If you are applying a darker color, use a deep tint primer that can be tinted to match your paint to help save on extra applications to get to the fully saturated color."

Walmart's Glidden HEP Grab-N-Go Interior Paint and Primer in Flat White is highly rated by customers.

6. You really will love it

Despite the snags I hit along the way with both rooms, I will say I absolutely love the result. The study feels exactly as I hoped and extending the color to the ceiling has really made this little space feel interesting and unique.

Given that I spend at least 40 hours a week in here, even now as I'm writing this article, it brings me joy every time I step in or look up. 

With the bedroom, I was aiming for a cottage-style room with sumptuous, neutral, cozy vibes and painting the ceiling brings in that cocoon type feeling in spades. Now, I just have to upgrade our bedding and lamps, add a rug and plan which room I'll be roping my husband into helping me paint next.

If you're considering taking the plunge and applying color to your ceiling, don't hesitate because it is really hard to hate the results. But do invest in the right kit, test out your paint options on multiple walls and the ceiling before picking, and plan ahead with time to rest.

For more inspiration for your DIY painting project, delve into this year's small space interior paint trends.