Interior design do’s and don’ts

Kravet "La Via Loca" by Lilly Pulitzer wallpaper surrounded by color-splashed ambiance and old-Florida charm.

Mineral City

1. Farm table custom made from old barn wood with a natural finish. Ten banana leaf chairs surround the table and are anchored with a Dash & Albert hand woven cotton rug. The two-part farmhouse cabinet filled the adjoining space to give this room a warm, welcoming area for a large family gathering.

The Coastal Farmhouse

The Kitchen Nook showcases kitchen islands and counter stools as well as a versatile display unit.

Seascape Interiors

2. Dining chairs, table and sideboard handmade out of sustainable solid mahogany wood, made using the traditional techniques of dovetail joints noted for strength and durability. Slightly distressed for a vintage look.

Seascape Interiors

SDH Hydrangea shown in sage colorway with 500 thread count in 100% Egyptian Cotton, made in Italy.

Opulence of Southern Pine

2. Ann Gish collections, first printed in a complicated botanical pattern and then over-embroidered to add to the texture and depth. Natural elements combine with the Wild Silk coverlet and shams.

Opulence of Southern Pine

Contemporary, traditional and vintage furnishings on a Kelly green background framed in gold complement a rattan chair with a fuzzy blush colored pillow.

Mineral City

Posted Friday, October 18, 2019 3:25 pm

By Amber Lake

Bedroom allure

Your bedroom might not get the most traffic with guests, but don’t be afraid to indulge in luxury. A beautiful bedroom stands out not with color and eye-catching design, but with simplicity and a focus on soft, comforting elements. Indulge in a luxurious bed, mattress and linens — your future self will thank you. Why pay for an expensive hotel when you can have a 5-star sleep every night at home?

For a refined bedroom design, think subtle colors and monochromatic tones. Make the focus of the room the bed and choose one that fits the space. For a room with high ceilings, choose a large headboard. For lower ceilings, find the perfect platform bed. When dressing the bed, choose sensual fabrics with high thread counts. Layer plush and silk to create texture. Dress the windows in rich drapes that filter light, creating a mood to match. The perfect bedroom is one that feels like an escape from the outside world.

Capturing coastal without the cliché

Getting a little seaside with your interior design can be a great way to bring the outside, in. The trick, however, for keeping your coastal bungalow from looking like a 2-for-1 tiki bar is all about channeling a mood, rather than plastering beachy paraphernalia everywhere. Stay away from signs and margarita-themed décor. Rather, opt for coastal color palettes, such as neutrals, crisp white, muted green and blues. Choose simple window treatments and let the sunlight flow. Let natural fibers and wood accents become the running motif, with interesting decorative pieces taking center stage. The takeaway? Simply, stay away from anything that says “beach” rather than just feels beachy.

Adopt an interesting accent

No, don’t suddenly start speaking with a cockney dialect when inviting guests to your home. A better way to impress company starts with an interesting accent piece that draws the eye, creating a truly unique space that is all your own. A simple chair with “flair” or colorful dining room table can both complement a room’s décor without feeling out of place by evoking both distinction and harmony within its surroundings. Try a contrasting color on an item that already channels your style or an unconventional material that add drama to an interior space. When choosing an item, think less about the piece’s functionality and more about the feeling it evokes. Does it excite you? If so, it might be a great focal point to your home design.

Trend balance

Jump on the trend bandwagon by pairing natural fiber furnishing with an industrial chic lighting fixture. The blend works well to modernize your space with little effort. Additionally, take a Marie Kondo chop to your style by eliminating the excess in favor of a more minimalistic look. Opting for a fresh, natural design without the clutter is an effortless way to revitalize a tired space into something more contemporary.