If you want to upgrade your living room, you have many avenues to go down. So in which direction do you want to go for your transformation? Read these great ways to upgrade your living room area to find the perfect approach for your home.
Continue reading 4 Great Ways To Upgrade Your Living Room Area
For many, 2020 will go down in history as the year of masks, working from home, and social distancing. However, the interior design community will remember it as the year that gave birth to cottagecore. Cottagecore is an interior design trend that embraces the simple, cozy, authentic home. It is a new iteration of ‘country style’ that celebrates the old and the new. Think handmade quilts and reclaimed wood layered with industrial light fixtures and bold wallpaper. To call it an interior design trend is ironic, as it is all about renouncing the “latest thing” and creating a home that honors the individual. Nevertheless, cottagecore is in; hello rustic reverie. If you are looking to incorporate the cottagecore aesthetic into your home, here is where to start.
Continue reading Cottagecore: The Biggest Design Trend of 2021
Choosing the perfect sofa for your home can be a daunting task. You may be asking yourself, should I go with trendy or timeless? Do I need a sectional or a sofa? Where can I find quality furniture that will last? If you have just moved into a new Houston home, you may be itching to get this process over with quickly. However, taking time to consider this important purchase will pay off. With hundreds of Sunday naps, movie nights, and family gatherings ahead, you will want to take these things into consideration when buying a sofa.
Continue reading Sofa Shopping Guide: Coziest Click of the Day
Japandi style is the must-have interior trend that is a hybrid of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics. The look is minimal, functional, warm, and calming, with touches of wabi-sabi enthused imperfection. We’ve compiled some tips to help you work Japandi style into your home. But first, why are the two styles, such happy roommates?
You may not think that Japan and Scandinavia have a lot in common, but when it comes to design elements, they’re more similar than you may think. Each one’s aesthetics focuses on simplicity, natural elements, and comfort, so it’s no surprise that we’re seeing more and more designers combine the two looks together and calling it “Japandi” (aka Japanese and Scandi). Though a relatively new trend, expect to see Japandi pop up on your Instagram feeds this year.
Japandi styles feature beautiful craftsmanship with a focus on quality and handmade pieces over throwaway, cheap structures.
The natural warmth of wood is revered in both Japanese and Danish designs. Work it into your home with key furniture, ideally keeping surface treatments to a minimum. Wood-paneled walls make for great features. Then introduce natural accents with statement houseplants, preferably in terracotta pots.
NATURAL COLORS
Here is where the Japandi camp divides. Those tipping toward the Scandi expression will likely opt for a white or neutral-based palette with rich accents. Others will choose large swathes of rich color on walls and other elements. In both cases, work with natural tones like blues, greens, plums, and browns. Black is also a favorite in Japandi style rooms.
ACCESSORIZE WITH CARE
The philosophies behind both nations’ design languages call for accessories that prioritize functionality over decoration. Think unglazed ceramic tableware, vases, and a few books. Lastly, combine Scandi’s homey comforts with Japanese imperfection through contrasting cushions and throws.
If you’re a fan of minimalism and “Hygge,” chances are that you have already started to experiment with the Japandi style. To really play with this look, focus on natural materials such as unfinished woods or bamboo pieces that bring in the feeling of nature and simplistic beauty. We also recommend using muted colors with hints of pale green or bringing plants and greenery into your home to give it a sense of outdoor living.
Reducing clutter is also key to achieving the Japandi style. This design aesthetic focuses on clean lines and open spaces. But if you have an active household and struggle to find that minimalist look, we recommend trying “faux minimalism” with natural containers such as boxes and baskets, built-ins, or folding screens to hide excess items and keep your space feeling clutter-free.
To get the best of both worlds, draw on the coziness of Scandi design with warm textures and soft pieces while maintaining the elegance of Japanese decor. While both styles have a focus on the utilitarian, it’s important to maintain a zen-like sense of calm in your space.
Because Japandi design is focused on craftsmanship, it’s not meant to be disposable. Look for pieces that will stand the test of time and work with your decor for years to come. It’s a clear antidote to the one-time-use culture we have embraced for so long. Instead, focus on pieces that are sustainable and safe for our planet.
Though both Japanese and Scandi decor aren’t new, the combination of the two is sure to be a rising trend in the future.
It’s been a whole year so you’ve likely gotten very familiar with the interior of your home. It’s a good idea to fill it with positivity. Enter feng shui, the ancient Chinese practice that charts the balance of energy, or chi, via scientific calculations. The goal of feng shui is to invite positive chi into your home so that your life feels both energized and balanced, and it’s a relatively simple way to improve the vibes of your space.
While The Home Source Team is no expert, and the calculations really depend on your exact space, there are general guidelines. We’re here to inspire some good energy for making your at-home time as pleasant as possible.
The five important elements of feng shui are wood, metal, earth, water, and fire.
Wood
Symbolizes growth and vitality. Placing wood items in your space encourages personal growth. Plants and wooden furniture are easy ways to add this element.
Metal
Symbolizes logic and intelligence. It supports knowledge and mental sharpness. Add this element to your space with metal frames or sculptures.
Earth
Symbolizes stability and balance. It helps to ground and stabilize. Bring the earth element inside with rocks, crystals, and landscape imagery.
Water
Symbolizes wisdom and serenity. It helps with clarity and relaxation. Mirrors, reflective surfaces, and aquariums are ways to add the water element to your space.
Fire
Symbolizes passion and energy. It’s representative of transformation, expansion, and volatility. Use candles and red objects to enhance your space with fire.
The Bagua or energy map of your home will serve as a blueprint, or a clear map as to what colors are used in specific rooms, what images are best in your home, how to position the furniture for best energy flow, etc. Knowing the Bagua is crucial to successful feng shui decorating, so be sure not to ignore this step.
1. Make a good impression with your front door.
In order to attract energy into your home, you need a welcoming front door.
2. Clear the clutter.
Too much mess prevents the energy from flowing and also clutters your brain. A clean space gives you room to breathe and to clear your head.
3. Make use of crystals.
Use rose quartz for love, tourmaline for protection, or citrine for healing and wealth.
4. Make sure air and light can get in.
Since air is a key component to the very meaning of feng shui, it must be allowed in. A combination of natural light and air will bring in good energy and rejuvenation.
5. Place the bed and desk towards the doorways.
Facing the entrance increases power and minimizes vulnerability.
6. Add a natural element.
Decorate each room with a houseplant. Not only do they improve energy, but they also increase health and naturally purify the air.
If you prefer to apply feng shui principles to a room rather than a whole house, here are some things to keep in mind.
When designing your living room, begin with the largest piece of furniture you have (typically, a sofa). Make sure it faces a door or opening and is placed against a wall, ideally the one furthest from the entrance, and allow for a few inches of breathing room between.
If you have additional seating like a lounge chair, choose where to put it based on what is conducive for conversation. Try not to cramp the space. The goal is to create energy flow.
When deciding on a coffee table, try to avoid harsh angles. If a circle or oval feels too contrasting to the rest of your furniture, just contrast the shapes in the smaller elements as this creates better balance.
Use sheer window coverings to allow light in but prevent energy from escaping. If you prefer completely uncovered windows, try placing a plant nearby.
Adding red elements will help invigorate the room and help to energize.
Similar to the living room, start with your bed and place it far away from the doorway, but not directly facing it. Try to avoid having too many electrical components close to your sleeping space.
If possible, avoid putting a television in your private space. This often becomes the focal point of the room, which takes away from the calming energy.
Combine masculine and feminine details to make sure both parties are represented and a balance is established. If you have a metal or wooden bed frame, choose soft-colored linens.
Fill your bedroom with cozy material to invite restful, calming energy. Using hues in green and blue can add to this type of feeling. Clearing out whatever is under your bed also helps energy flow.
The biggest tip for home office decor is removing the clutter. As much as 50 percent of your desk should be clear, which means it’s time to hide those cords!
Similar to the layout in the other rooms, position your desk facing the door because this gives you a position of power, which is important for your place of work or productivity.
Decorate this space with a few personal objects like a family photo and incorporate greenery as the energy from plants will help you stay focused. To invigorate the area, add red details.
In terms of color, use gentle yellows and greens to calm and center. Add earth tones for stability and flowers or a motto to remind you of what you need to accomplish.
Okay everyone. Here is the part 2 that you all have been waiting for.
RECAP AND PART 1:
Your zodiac sign can reveal a lot about your personality, with each astrological sign having its own individual strengths, traits, and desires. Are you an energetic Gemini who constantly likes to switch up their interior design style, or a trend-conscious Aries who is always one step ahead of the design game? Or maybe you’re a globe-trotting Sagittarius who loves displaying treasures from around the world.
By using your star sign to help make interior design decisions, you can create a warm and welcoming space that truly reflects your inner character. From your must-haves to your must-avoids in terms of color, style, and accessories, we’ve covered all you need to know about injecting a little personal style based on your star sign, into your home.
September 23 – October 22
Element: Air
Ruling body: Venus
First, Libras prefer to stay away from flamboyant style, opting for minimalistic interiors instead.
Although they love luxurious details and fabrics, a Libra desires a home that’s balanced between elegance and tranquility. A Libra doesn’t want their space to be too over the top.
Your interior design style is likely to be French Luxury/Rococo. Libras must avoid garish prints and modern designs. A Libra constructs a peaceful home which they fill with elegant mirrors, scattered cushions, and romantic paintings and prints. The color palette is made up of Champagne pink, lilac, and light grey. Any room decorated by this zodiac sign is sure to be a lavishly pretty boudoir that portrays absolute serenity and warmth.
October 23 – November 21
Element: Water
Ruling body: Pluto
Scorpios love to stand out and make a statement. They are passionate, seductive, and not afraid to speak their mind. Most of the respondents under this sign have chosen the Industrial style as their favorite. If you want to achieve this style you will need to invest in metal elements and furniture, be bold with black, and if you can, add elements of exposed brickwork into your home.
Secondly, Scorpio-born is passionate, determined, and decisive and once they know what they want, will not stop until they have reached their goal. Scorpio’s have no interest in fad trends or artificial decor; they want the real deal and for their home to reflect their honesty and self-awareness. As a result, those with this zodiac sign express their character by the details in their possessions and, intrigued by its history, are often drawn to mid-century gothic or industrial architecture.
Your interior design style is likely to be Industrial/Gothic. Dark colors such as emerald green and plum purple, and mixed textures including fur, silk, and wood are much-loved, while a jungle of house plants are frequently found in Scorpio homes. This sign needs to be submerged in nature – artificial plants or imitation furnishings are simply not good enough.
November 22 – December 21
Element: Fire
Ruling body: Jupiter
Sagittarius is the philosophical defender of the galaxy, who armed with a bow and arrow, is a keen traveler, curious about the wider world and what it has to offer. Therefore, this sign’s greatest treasure is their freedom.
Your interior design style is likely to be Coastal. Sagittarius loves to travel, so it’s unsurprising that their go-to interior style is coastal themed. Whether you live close to the sea or not, simply tap into soft hues of blue, grey, green, and white, a color combination that is never far from a beach scene.
Those with Sagittarius as their star sign wear their heart on their sleeve and their home is a reflection of their wild character and obsession with our planet.
December 22 – January 19
Element: Earth
Ruling body: Saturn
A sign that represents time and responsibility, and is very serious by nature, Capricorn is often seen as the father of the zodiac. Capricorn-born individuals do still lust after elegant details to admire. This hard-working sign values great craftsmanship and hand-worked touches. They honor those who took time and patience beautifully building the furniture they’ve purchased. A Capricorn’s appreciation of quality that stands the test of time makes their home a sanctuary that’s classic and heartwarming.
Your design interior style is likely to be Traditional. With a timeless sense of style, Capricorns are big on traditional, comfortable home décor. Those with a Capricorn sign are attracted to furniture that has a stately feel – think large armoires, leather sofas, or cabinets full of crystal or fine china. Their style is not trend-driven; they know what they like and it needs to be practical, economical and reliable.
January 20 – February 18
Element: Air
Ruling body: Uranus
Although they can easily adapt to the energy that surrounds them, Aquarius-born has a deep need to be alone and away from others in order to restore their power. This means it’s essential that their home is a haven of harmony and tranquility.
Thanks to the ruling planet Uranus, Aquarius-born have a visionary quality. Capable of perceiving the future and knowing exactly what they want, these interior designers are sure to choose something that will awaken and inspire them. As the water–bearer sign, the Aquarius sign loves vibrant hues and colors of the ocean, like blue, green, violet, and indigo. Their homes incorporate all elements of life too; often filled with vases and soothing Zen fountains. As an air sign, roomy space with lots of ventilation is a dream of by an Aquarius too.
Your interior design style is likely to be Avant-Garde. This sign’s design style is avant-garde and unconventional, yet also ensures the latest gadgets look right at home. Hand-painted details, DIY fixtures, and ridiculous patterns are at the core of an Aquarius’s home. Aquarius’s have a great eye for exciting artwork that provokes conversation. Sometimes even their own art work makes the walls.
Your zodiac sign can reveal a lot about your personality, with each astrological sign having its own individual strengths, traits, and desires. Are you an energetic Gemini who constantly likes to switch up their interior design style, or a trend-conscious Aries who is always one step ahead of the design game? Or maybe you’re a globe-trotting Sagittarius who loves displaying treasures from around the world.
By using your star sign to help make interior design decisions, you can create a warm and welcoming space that truly reflects your inner character. From your must-haves to your must-avoids in terms of color, style, and accessories, we’ve covered all you need to know about injecting a little personal style based on your star sign, into your home.
March 21 – April 19
Element: Fire
Ruling body: Mars
An Aries is full of energy and people are drawn to your fun, warm personality. Aries people aren’t afraid to try something new. You love to be out and about, so you prefer your home to be low maintenance.
Your interior design style is likely to be contemporary. Think hues of beige, white and black, combined with various modern textures.
The life of an Aries is constantly filled with social engagements, however those with this star sign are also lovers of their own space. To create a haven perfect for Aries, think open spaces, large sofas and beds and private areas to which they can retreat.
April 20 – May 20
Element: Earth
Ruling body: Venus
Relaxing in style is what this sign does best, and as a sensual and tactile individual, touch is the most important of all their senses. Silks, velvets and cozy cashmere showcase the Taurus’ fine taste but also provide the comfort that is at the heart of all interior decisions this decadent personality makes.
Your interior design style is likely to be Traditional Luxe. Taurus is ruled by Venus, the planet of beauty. Comfort, security, and a warm, peaceful environment are important to you. The best food and décor await behind the doors of a Taurus space.
May 21 – June 20
Element: Air
Ruling body: Mercury
You’re easy-breezy, a great communicator, and always on the hunt for new things. Gemini is also ruled by twins, meaning you have two very opposite sides to you, making you seem eclectic. You’re the one sign that can love traditional and modern at the same time while falling in love in an instant with the next design trend.
A Gemini’s changeable and open mind makes them creative and keen to communicate, and born with a wish to experience everything there is out there, a Gemini likes to submerge themselves and their home in memories and keepsakes. Every room in their home is different too; they have no distinct interior style but instead a collection of everything they love in one place.
Your interior design style is likely to be Eclectic. Gemini needs to be careful not to collect too much. Keeping a space clear will allow this indecisive sign to change up their home to their next desired style – which even they can’t keep up with.
June 21 – July 22
Element: Water
Ruling body: Moon
Cancers are the ultimate homebody. Your home is very important to you and it’s always cozy, comfortable, and unpretentious. People gravitate to you because of your soothing, nurturing personality.
Like crabs, who rely on their hard exterior for protection, the home of a Cancer is their safe sanctuary. Sensitive and caring deeply about matters of the family and their home, this star sign is drawn towards quaint and cozy interior styles made up of one-of-a-kind, mis-match finds.
Your interior design style is likely to be Traditional. Cancers have a great eye for spotting rare and well-desired reworked designs and antiques. When you step foot inside a Cancerian home, don’t be surprised to see photos of all of their loved ones too.
July 23 – August 22
Element: Fire
Ruling body: Sun
The king (or queen) of the jungle, Leo is the life and soul of every party. Needing space to show off their indulgence in the finer things, a Leo designs their home as regal and as loud as themselves.
Expensive textiles and deep colors, and of course gold highlights wherever possible showcase this sign’s flashy but classy taste. There is nothing minimal or simplistic about a Leo’s life or their interiors. These natural born leaders can find it extremely difficult to resist the things they want, which, in the home, can include oversized cushions made using the most lavish fabrics and large sofas or beds in rich, statement colors
Your interior design style is likely to be Maximalist. You’re regal and you know it. You were born to shine and be the star of the zodiac. In fact, many Leos have wild hair or some attribute that sets them apart from the crowd. Your home is a reflection of you – unique, lavish, and eye-catching.
August 23 – September 22
Element: Earth
Ruling body: Mercury
The efficient and practical Virgo needs their house to reflect their desire for organization and simplicity. Keeping their color palette neutral, earthy tones are loved by this sign as they allow them to feel calm and relaxed. However, for those willing to add a slight touch of color, peach, light blue, or olive green are common choices.
A Virgo’s design style is one of the minimalism qualities, avoiding mismatched or thrifted furniture which, to them, represent mess. Wooden or tiled flooring throughout also means their home can always be cleaned quickly, avoiding the antagonizing idea of a cream carpet turning mocha.
Your interior design style is likely to be Modern. You have an eye that notices every tiny detail. You need order, organization and cleanliness or you’ll go crazy. Because Virgos belong to the earth element, you prefer natural materials. People appreciate your helpful, practical personality and your need for harmony at home.
Stay tuned for part 2!
We especially love the use of live edge wood dining tables, as they lend an organic and elegantly understated tone to the dining room. The natural wood tones are unique to each table which makes every piece one of a kind. I am totally loving this live edge wood dining table right now. The simplistic design is timeless yet modern. It has me dreaming of using it in a client’s home, so I decided to show you how I would style it. Read on below for the inspiration behind this modern coastal dining room I created.
If you’re looking for furniture that will bring the WOW factor to your living space, a live edge table might be the choice for you.
The term “live-edge” refers to the natural edge left on at least one side of a piece of wood.
Rather than the sharp, clean lines in more traditional wooden furniture, live-edge retains the natural beauty of the tree. Other natural characters of the wood, such as knots and cracks, are often left the way they are and become beautiful features of the live edge table.
Live-edge designs help you bring the outdoors into your home in the form of functional, modern furniture.
Each live-edge dining table is an original, one-of-a-kind piece. There’s a huge number of options when it comes to picking your table including the species, woodcut, colors, and more.
When it’s time to go shopping for your new masterpiece, it can be a bit overwhelming deciding between the various options.
Here are some of the more common features you’ll come across.
A wood slab can be cut vertically from a tree. They will usually have a live edge on both sides. Due to the length, this is the most traditional option for coffee and dining room tables.
A wood slice, or tree round, can be cut horizontally from a tree. The slice will have a live edge all the way around and beautifully displays the growth rings. Side tables usually have this type of cut.
Burl tends to be one of the most expensive options. Some trees have a large rounded outgrowth as a result of a deformity, called a burl. Burl wood is highly prized for stunning grain patterns and unique, bumpy edges.
Bowties, also known as butterflies, are inlaid pieces of wood across a crack in the tabletop. They prevent the crack from getting wider while adding another beautiful element to the finished piece.
Depending on the type of table and wood used, the craftsman will decide whether to leave the bark on or take it off.
It’s somewhat more common for the bark to be removed and edges sanded down slightly.
Long gone is the myth that natural wooden furniture only belongs in remote cottages. As you know, live-edge dining tables have an ageless design that will always belong no matter how many times you redecorate your home.
From rustic country home to modern, minimalist spaces, these tables will complement their surroundings.
Wood conveys a sense of warmth and life that will bring a feeling of comfort to the room. The natural flow of a live edge table adds movement to an area full of straight lines and sharp corners.
The neutral tones of wood rarely clash with décor and the wood grain patterns make the table a natural work of art.
Recently, live-edge furniture is becoming increasingly popular in both home and commercial settings. Check out what your favorite interior designers have been up to and you’ll likely spot pieces of natural wood furniture.
Just about anything made from wood can retain more of its natural wonder.
Finally, live-edge tables are just one of the many options quickly growing in popularity. You can get headboards, countertops, and stools made with the same craftsmanship of live-edge tables.
Coasters, cutting boards, bowls….the list is endless!
More than ever, our homes need to function as a calming haven that is our escape from the world. Comfort is paramount. Whether you’re kicking back to watch a movie or enjoying a delicious family meal, your home should inspire relaxation and reflect a comfortable and stylish interior design in every room. The key is figuring out how to balance comfort and style in all your spaces. Here are 14 easy ways to elevate your comfy, cozy home so that you are content and comfortable in your own space.
Every comfortable living room should have a deep seating option, especially if you have kids. It provides a comfy place for you to kick back and relax with your family, have movie nights with friends, or even just stretch out for an afternoon nap. We love a sectional for extra space, but it’s up to you if you want a sofa or a sectional.
Whichever option you go with, top it with some cozy and fun patterned pillows to give it some extra cushioning. If you’re not sure that one will fit in your living space, don’t worry. Obviously, there are plenty of options available and you’ll easily find a more compact design that’s just as stylish and cozy.
Trust me when I say that there are plenty of ways to cozy up your home with scents, whether derived from a candle, a diffuser, an essential oil spray, or just the smell of perfume in the air. Having scents around the house creates an instant mood.
Sometimes, a solution to cozying up your home in one simple step is to light a candle! Candles don’t have to be expensive to smell amazing, either.
Plush pillows and soft tapestry. Baskets and natural fibers. Smooth leather and rough natural woods. A combination of textures is a key element to any comfortable home design.
It’s about engaging all the senses in every room of the house, so experiment with a wide mix. Try pairing a leather bench with a slipcovered sofa, hang an eye-catching chandelier in front of a mirror above your mantel, or go for the raw-wood headboard and offset it with piles of soft linen pillows. Get creative with your furniture and accent mix and see what suits your taste.
Decorating your home with driftwood is a wonderful idea because it is not only stunning to look at, but also very eco-friendly since you are re-purposing old wood into brilliant designs. Having an organic look in your home with nature-inspired objects of driftwood is a very trendy style. It not necessarily limited to just beach or coastal style, this look can create a super rustic ambiance. This will not only soften up your home but provide a comfy mood for the room.
When it comes to instant style, patterns are a great way to add visual interest and a personal touch to any space in the home. It also provides a strong sense of comfort.
If you’re not one for a lot of color and pattern in your house, try adding bright accents such as printed pillows, bold wall art, and quirky design objects that you can switch out as needed. This lets you ease in patterns without committing in a big way.
Plants are cozy because they are living things.
Be warned though: at some point or another, some of your plants will die. It happens even to the most seasoned gardeners so don’t despair! It’s part of the learning process.
The other wonderful thing about having lots of plants means you get to accessorize with just as many glorious vessels! Plants housed in pots, planters, and baskets are in and of themselves very cozy and have the benefit of adding textural pops of interest to any room. There is something about live plants that just makes for a comfy, cozy home.
Using rich and deep colors is an effective way to give an impression of warmth. Dark charcoal and navy both look fantastic on walls and work well together, especially when teamed with furnishings in contrasting colors, such as berry shades and mustard yellow,’ she explains. Wooden furniture is also excellent in combination with a dark palette.
Bring in burnt oranges, deep reds, mustard yellows, earthy tones, or saturated colors for a bolder choice. Reflecting on the seasons in your home is a great way to freshen up your space. To really lift these colors and bring them to life, consider a mixture of creative layouts, patterns, and textures.
Mid-century modern and industrial styles in particular look great teamed with rich shades.
Copper and brass work especially well with grey and navy walls. Of course, you can introduce a bit of sparkle with most colour schemes if you go for small highlights such as scatter cushions, tea light holders, and picture frames.
Another great use of metallics is on the inside of lampshades as it will cast a warm glow to the surroundings, and even when not lit will still add interest and opulence to the scheme.
You can instantly dial up the comfort and style in your bedroom by adding a soft tufted headboard as the centerpiece. The plush texture and curves will make it a captivating focal point in the bedroom while also offering you padded support.
Plush = Comfy AND cozy.
Balance it out with other luxurious accents, such as glamorous lighting, a bold rug, and a chic bench. The goal is to design a room that makes you want to sleep in on the weekends and turn in early on weeknights.
Console tables are an incredibly versatile piece of furniture. Whether pushed up against a wall or against a sofa, these can act as easy barriers to separate different areas of an open-concept living area or to separate seating arrangements.
A simple wooden console table provides storage and creates a barrier between the seating area and the open space around it. Moving furniture away from the walls creates a much more intimate seating area.
There’s something comforting about books. Bookshelves take up a large amount of wall space, so they’re easy to add to a living room where the furniture is pushed away from the walls.
For owners with a smaller collection, arranging items together with knick-knacks and accent pieces is a great way to fill the vertical space. This design also attaches a large piece of artwork to the empty shelves just above the sofa. Who wouldn’t want to read in a comfy, cozy home?
Next, make sure to decorate your home with the stuff you like, so you would always feel cozy where you live. If you like to read, make yourself a house library. If you like to watch movies, make yourself a house cinema. Anything that would further personalize your home, and make it more welcoming.
I am a pillow hoarder & usually load up every single piece of furniture. This instantly makes for a comfy, cozy home. Sometimes this can annoy people who look at our photos or some get intimidated by adding pillows because of the “room” issues, but in our home, we sit on the pillows, toss them on the floor, hug them, squish them, & wear them out. The pillows at our house are meant to be used & to really be used for comfort. No pillow is safe around these parts.
One of the most important ways to character to your home is to include vintage or antique pieces! They don’t have to be family heirlooms. In fact, purchasing second hand pieces on Craigslist or in thrift stores can be so rewarding and add so much charm to your home.
And there you go, folks! Those were some of the best interior design tips for a comfy, cozy home. If you enjoyed the article, or if you have anything to ask, let us know.
Trends change about every 10 years, and after 2020, I think everyone is ready to flip a new page!
2020 has had such a big impact on everyone, and really in all parts of our day-to-day lives. Financially, physically, spiritually, relationally – you name it, it has been affected.
Home Source Funriture has had an influx in sales due to the fact that people are restyling their homes.
The DIY crowd was out in droves as a lot of people realized they have the time to get projects done in their homes, yards, and gardens. Even my mom got a chance to finish her dream garden.
In a similar vein, the interior design styles and focuses that became more popular are really centered around the idea that people are spending much more time in their homes due to the pandemic.
On one hand, I think most everyone wanted their home to feel more comfortable, and more like a sanctuary.
While on the other hand balancing a need to be able to functionally do just about everything at home. Working, schooling, socializing and exercising- all in addition to the regular “home” things like eating and sleeping. It is a shift that puts the focus on our homes and immediate surroundings in a way that really hasn’t been seen in quite some time!
Some of the most obvious design element changes I saw last year were that mid-century modern furniture seemed to really start taking a back burner, and I think that’s mainly due to comfort! Those couches can look really stylish and sleek, they didn’t hold a candle in the comfort of the welcoming department.
Minimalism also seemed to be dying down.
Again, I think this is because of the idea of people needing to use their homes so much more and need to use their own space for so many more of their everyday activities, they realized they would need a bit more of the things they could have previously done without.
Personally, I am seeing so much more color in 2021! I think we’ve had our past decade with lovely whites and neutrals, but now the colors are making their way back, and I am here for the color pops!
Honestly, I think the specific colors themselves that are having their time in the sun are the jewel tones!
Think: mauve, apricot, peach, coral, mustard yellow (this one is the one I’m loving the most), forest green, navy blue, hunter green.
2. The Farmhouse Split:
Another big change I’m noticing is a bit of a split in the Farmhouse Style that has become so popular.
About half of the current farmhouse trend is headed to modern farmhouse, similar to Studio McGee’s style.
3. Cottage Core
If you’re not familiar with cottage core yet, I think the best way I can explain it is:
Basically a farmhouse backdrop, but with lots of florals and colors in the foreground.
4. Wall Treatments:
In 2021, I can see the white shiplap trend really starting to quiet down, at times simply with different colors (I’ve seen some painted black recently), and at other times, replaced altogether with a new take on board and batten walls.
I’ve been seeing lots of geometric and grid-shaped accent walls made with 1″ x 2″ pieces of wood and then painted in the dark rich colors I mentioned earlier.
Wallpaper is making a pretty fantastic comeback as an accent wall! With lots of colors and fun florals.
Fun accent wallpaper is another thing you shouldn’t be surprised to see in my own home in the coming year.
5. Kitchen Interior Design Trends for 2021:
In the kitchen, I’m seeing light, almost raw wood cabinets coming back – which feel like they fit very nicely with both modern farmhouse and cottage core.
6. In the Living Room:
Something fun that I have noticed a few times are these long, high bookshelves – I’m talking within about 1′ of the ceiling that almost look like an aspect of the millwork.
It’s a kind of creative use of that space that I haven’t seen around much before!
I’m also seeing lots of plants making their way into designs in all the different parts of the home – which I think really ties into the idea of us wanting sanctuary in our homes since we’re there so much.
Cognac sofas are also really popular! Home Source has plenty of different styles of cognac sofas and they are always in stock. Not only are they stylish, but they are super comfortable!
What’s really neat about cognac is that it’s both a classic, and a current trend! This is one piece I’d recommend a bit of a splurge on if it’s something you love!
7. Caned Furniture:
If you find vintage caned pieces while thrifting, I’d definitely suggest you snag them up!
There are also some really creative caned furniture options I’ve been seeing around! Some have been so bold as to use it as a full treatment on their cabinet doors, but I think I would stay away from such a large usage on a hard fixture, and stick to adding them on a smaller furniture piece that you can swap out later if needed.
I also think concrete fireplaces will be popping up more and more this year!
This is actually one time I might say it would be OK to ignore my “hard finishes” rule if this was a look you really loved. This treatment could totally be done over the top of an outdated stone fireplace if you were looking for a change.
8. Lastly, Black is back!:
I think it’s been about since the 80’s that black has been kind of relegated to the sidelines, but I truly see it making a comeback in 2021.
It can be so beautiful when used as an accent color, but I have to say that I think it can become a little flat, gothic and heavily masculine when used in too great a quantity.
Feel free to dabble and add those sophisticated elements, but be careful not to over do it!
The Home Source Team hopes this serves as a helpful look ahead and inspiration for you!
Let us know in the comments below which of these you’re most looking forward too, or if you see any other trends on the horizon that you think I might have left off!
Shelia Hail is the owner of Olivia Hail Designs. Olivia is her middle name and she claims that it’s her designer alter ego. Shelia, originally from Northern California, is a residential interior designer in Houston! Her business goal is to design more commercial spaces in addition to residential spaces. Designing boutique hotels is a dream of hers.
Likes: Food, travelling, her family, meeting new people, music, and designing things.
Dislikes: Negative Nancy’s, when things aren’t done efficiently, and waiting for things.
Well, I have just entered my third year of being an interior designer in Houston. I knew I wanted to become an interior designer when I started decorating and designing spaces for the events that my church held in Arizona. I graduated with a communications degree. When the church let me design these events for them, I really got to explore my creative side.
Then when Christmas came around, I decorated my home and wanted to do more! I started posting on Facebook groups, offering my decorating services for the holidays! When a local Houston mom reached out to me about decorating her home for the holidays, I was so excited! Creating and designing spaces for people and communities to make memories is absolutely my favorite thing to do now.
I always go with less. Learning from other designers, you always have to do everything grand which is mind-blowing to me. Although less is better for me, it has to be intentional. It doesn’t make me a minimalist at all though. I want the home to feel like it’s lived in. Clutter is just not my niche.
I love mid-century modern! I also love everything else – that’s why I love this store! Home Source Furniture is fabulous because it’s very well-traveled. Finding these funky little pieces is fun for me! It’s fabulous.
The most recent project that I have done is a renovation. It is modern and European with a little bit of transitional. It makes sense because this client travels and their family is in German. Being able to do that from beginning to end is so much fun! I had a say in what wall could come down and what goes where. My client told me that she trusted me. That was HUGE for me. The reason why a relationship is important to me was that my client was not second-guessing me. When I second-guessed by a client, I start to doubt myself and question what I am doing. My client really boosted my confidence!
Home Source Furniture is different because y’all have a variety of stuff! The warehouse is also huge; however; it can be overwhelming for clients. As a designer, it gives us the opportunity to treasure hunt for one-of-a-kind pieces. The warehouse also doesn’t have to be totally stylized. It’s a lot of inventory! It would be nice to see new displays of furniture every so often in the showroom. There is a lot of furniture here that could be stylized beautifully together. Decorations like live (or fake) plants and books would also help make the showroom come together.
We invited Lisa Kelley to Home Source Furniture to get to know her better as well as ask her some tips and tricks on how to spice up your home during quarantine. Lisa Kelley is not only an interior designer. She is a wife, married for 33 years (to the best guy in the world). A grandma to two of the most amazing grandkids, and a mom to five adult children, including a daughter in law.
Her goal for 2021 is to set boundaries. The whole pandemic has caused her to rethink what is most important in her life. Setting boundaries will help her keep less busy while creating a sense of peace and tranquility. “I do not want to let my calendar dictate my life,” she says. “I’d rather be more in control of what my life looks like.”
Fun facts about Lisa Kelley:
Likes: Great lighting, vintage rugs, and statement pieces.
Dislikes: Vessel sinks, buying matching furniture sets, and pillow soft sofa cushions.
She has always known that she has a passion for making people’s homes look beautiful. When she babysat during high school, she would rearrange the house while the kids were sleeping. “I’ve always been able to see things in 3D.” says Lisa. However, she did not go to school for interior design. Instead, she studied fashion and design. She then became a flight attendant for Delta Airlines for 33 years, traveled the globe, and was inspired by the homes she saw all around the world. The passion intensified as her kids got a little older in high school. She started designing for commercial businesses and has worked with some of the most amazing designers, contractors, architects, and engineers. “I got to do these ginormous projects, built from the ground up. Now I am a residential interior designer and I love it.” Lisa states. “A good transformation is what satisfies me as a designer here in Houston.”
Her favorite style in her home is a fusion of both old and nouveau. “I love treasure hunting and that is why I love Home Source Furniture! I love going through the warehouse and picking out one-of-kind treasures or wood pieces that I can incorporate with some more modern pieces,” she mentions. “My home is comfortable but also whimsical. I guess you could say my style is European. Having people use their five senses in my home is what I strive for.”
“I love starting with less. The problem is that people love to fill space with stuff. So getting rid of something to make room for the new things is pretty upsetting and a waste of money to be honest. I think less is more since it’s a healthier place to be in and gives you a sense of tranquility rather than a sense of clutter.”
She mentions that when there is less clutter, there is less stress. However, there are times when a collection is okay such as vases and pottery. It depends on how it’s stylized and if it is functional in the home as well.
“Club chairs have to be one of them since there is a trend of using extra space in your home as a sit-in cozy nook. I also love the very organic natural pieces such as the live edge tables or driftwood decor. These pieces bring a little more warmth to a space and that’s what every home needs!”
There is also the Uvlade leather sofa with wide arms and depth to it that Lisa absolutely loves. There’s a vintage look to the leather, to where if you scratch it, it will add more rustic charm. The arms are exceptionally wide where it lends itself to additional seating.
“When you walk into the showroom at the Home Source Furniture warehouse for the very first time, you notice it’s styled beautifully. You can turn every corner and see every type of furniture for every style of home. It’s gorgeous and I love it. All of my senses start tingling because I want everything. Then you walk into the warehouse, and it becomes overwhelming because there is so much more furniture to look at. I would stylize the warehouse and showroom with more greenery and rugs. You walk in and immediately smell wood. Bringing warmth to all the senses is very important; especially within a business.”
