Issuu

GREAT

LON, OCE

HOMES AUGUST 2026

Bring on the color LON, OCE

2 - HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS GREAT HOMES - Thursday, August 20, 2026

The New Color Code A pAlette for All seAsons

How homeowners are embracing richness, warmth and mood By Karen Bloom

alk into a home in just about any Long Island neighborhood and you will notice a subtle shift in the air. The stark, clinical starkness of all-white walls and cool gray millwork — an aesthetic that dominated suburban interiors for over a decade — is quietly making its exit. In its place? A rich, tactile, and deeply grounding palette that balances coastal elegance with organic warmth. Homeowners are reimagining luxury living by inviting nuanced color back into their primary spaces. From dramatic front doors in deep marine hues to moody olive-toned kitchen cabinetry and velvet accent seating, the newest color trends reflect a desire for homes that feel like intimate retreats rather than polished showrooms.

The new neutrals: Goodbye cool gray, hello creamy taupe and mushroom For years, “safe” meant cool slate gray and ultrabright white. Today, Long Island’s homes are leaning into soft, complex neutrals that infuse spaces with architectural dimension and light-reflecting warmth. Homeowners are tired of living in sterile, ultramodern environments. They want their homes to feel cocooning, especially during Long Island winters. Brokers and designers are seeing a massive pivot toward mushroom taupes, warm oatmeals, and soft parchment tones. Instead of stark white walls, designers are turning to warm creams with faint yellow or greige undertones, such as Benjamin Moore’s Swiss Coffee or Edgecomb Gray. These shades capture Long Island’s unique natural light, which shifts dramatically from bright summer mornings over the Sound to amber winter sunsets, without feeling harsh or clinical. Mushroom and warm taupe are stepping up as the go-to shades for millwork, trim, and living room walls, creating a seamless backdrop that pairs effortlessly with natural white oak floors and polished brass hardware. For those who aren’t ready to go too far with color, Joe DeVito, owner of White House Home Design Services in Malverne, suggests treading carefully — but take the plunge! “When working with clients who are craving a bold departure from their current interior, however they are feeling unsure of making a statement with shades that inject moody drama or a bring a bright, lived-in radiance to their interior spaces, I often remind them that “it’s not a tattoo!” “I love to find a balance between my design vision and my client’s sense of style and comfort. I strive to create interiors that can be lived in and enjoyed with a common thread of timeless sophistication. “One of my favorite go-to paint is Farrow & Ball. Their color trends for 2026 lean heavily into grounded, character-rich earth tones and expressive warmth. Key palettes from them that inspire my creativity feature faded soft terracotta’s, rich chocolate browns, dramatic eggplants and gentle buttery soft yellows. Whether it’s pigment saturated paints, luxurious textured wall coverings or custom window treatments, floor coverings and upholstery; curating layers of color is a great way to define a beautiful interior.” Kitchen cabinetry: Moody greens and earthy blues steal the show If there is one room where color is making its biggest impact, it’s the kitchen. While white quartz and perimeter cabinetry remain a staple for bright, open layouts, island and perimeter accents are taking a decidedly dramatic turn. Alongside olive greens, ocean-inspired blues are evolving. Rather than bright nautical blues, homeowners are selecting moody, gray-undertoned navy and slate hues like Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy or Newburg Green. Used on lower cabinetry, butler’s pantries, or wet bars, these shades bring a sense of tailored heritage to coastal builds. First impressions: The statement front door The entrance sets the tone for the entire residence, and front doors have become a canvas for playful sophistication. While classic high-gloss black remains a traditional favorite on Colonial and Georgian architecture, modern traditionals and coastal ranch renovations are embracing unexpected door hues: Inky Marine Navy: A refined node to seaside living that complements cedar shingle and stone facades. Burnt Sienna and Clay: Warm, earthy rust tones that add instant curb appeal and pair beautifully with lush green landscaping. Deep Plum and Merlot: For historic homes, dark, moody berries offer a regal yet welcoming entry.

• • •

A colorful kitchen island can create a striking focal point while adding depth to an otherwise neutral space.

Everyone agrees: Your front door is the low-risk, high-impact zone of home color. If you’re nervous about painting a whole living room a saturated color, a rich, glossy jewel-tone on the entry door gives you that instant personality boost as soon as you pull into the driveway. Furniture and décor: Embracing saturated accents Color isn't just restricted to paint tins. Furniture, window treatments, and accent textiles are embracing rich, tactile saturation. In living rooms and den sanctuaries, rich velvet sofas in ochre, deep terracotta, and stormy cyan are taking center stage. Instead of monochrome rug layouts, designers are layering vintage Turkish rugs featuring muted saffron, dusty rose, and indigo. Natural wood finishes are also getting darker and richer. The washedWarm neutrals, rich textiles and saturated accents are creating living out blonde woods popular a few seasons spaces that feel inviting and lived-in. ago are giving way to mid-tone walnut, rich chestnut, and warm oak, which provide a solid visual anchor against soft taupe or sage walls. Expert advice: How to bring color into your own home For homeowners looking to step out of their neutral comfort zone without overwhelming their floor plan, designers recommend a phased approach: Start in enclosed spaces: Powder rooms, home offices, and wine tasting rooms are ideal spaces for color saturation. Darker shades in smaller rooms create a cozy, luxurious “jewel box” effect. Consider your exposure: South-facing rooms receive warm light all day and can easily handle cooler blues and greens. North-facing spaces benefit from neutrals with warm, yellow or pink undertones to offset cool light. Test large paint swatches: Paint hues shift dramatically between daytime sunlight and artificial evening lighting. Test a 2x2-foot painted board on multiple walls before committing. “I’m definitely seeing a shift in home interiors,” Oksana Malayeva, an agent with Signature Properties in Rockville Centre, explains. “For many years, the trend was white everything — white kitchen cabinets, white countertops, white walls, paired with gray floors and cool gray tones throughout the home. That very clean, almost sterile look is starting to soften. White kitchen cabinets are still popular, especially because they’re timeless and help a kitchen feel bright and open, according to Maleyeva, but homeowners are warming them up. “Instead of an all-white kitchen, we’re seeing white upper cabinets mixed with wood-tone or darker lower cabinets and islands. Warmer countertops, brass or brushed-gold hardware, natural wood accents and warmer backsplashes are also being used to give kitchens more depth and character. “I’m also seeing more interest in cream, beige, taupe, mushroom and soft greige cabinetry, along with deeper greens and blues for kitchen islands. Natural wood cabinets are coming back as well, but in a much more updated and sophisticated way. “Throughout the rest of the home, people are moving away from having every wall painted the same light gray. Wallpaper is also enjoying a resurgence, she adds, especially as an accent feature in dining rooms and living rooms. “Accent walls are back, wallpaper is definitely back, and homeowners are becoming much more comfortable using texture, pattern and moodier colors in dining rooms, bedrooms, powder rooms and even entryways. “From a real estate perspective, I think buyers still love homes that feel bright and fresh, but “bright” doesn’t have to mean everything is white anymore. The homes that really stand out are the ones that have warmth and personality while still feeling cohesive. “When a buyer walks through the door, you want them to remember how the home made them feel. Sometimes it’s that beautiful wallpaper, a warm wood kitchen island or a dramatic accent wall that gives the house its personality and makes it memorable.” As Long Island homes continue to evolve, the underlying message of current color trends is clear: personality, warmth, and connection to nature are here to stay. By swapping stark contrasts for layered hues, homeowners are creating spaces that feel as good to live in as they look.

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS GREAT HOMES - Thursday, August 20, 2026 - 3

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4 - HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS GREAT HOMES - Thursday, August 20, 2026

Waterfront living: What every buyer should know Thomas Tripodi is a waterfront property expert.

Tom Tripodi

riginally from Oceanside, Tripodi grew up on the water. “My father was a

dock builder for 50 years,” he said. “From Atlantic Beach to Baldwin, he had one of the biggest reputations around.” A licensed associate real estate broker with the Tripodi/Shemtov Team at Douglas Elliman, Tripodi

This bayfront property at 853 W. Park Avenue in Long Beach is listed by Thomas Tripodi

Whether you purchase a home

“And they really love

has over 25 years of selling

on Reynolds Channel or a condo

experience. He and his team

in one of the new beachfront

Tripodi offers advice for all

represent buyers and sellers

complexes, you can enjoy the

homeowners in Long Beach.

across the barrier island, from

calming waters and wildlife views.

“Wether you’re on the ocean or

Point Lookout to Atlantic Beach

Where they differ is access and

the bay — you’ll want to wash

activity. Oceanfront properties

and beyond. “We really gear ourselves towards these luxury waterfront properties,” he said. “We sell more than anybody.” Waterfront property is rare in such proximity to New York City, but there are several factors to consider when making a purchase. “It’s not only the home

include a mix of housing options from apartments on the boardwalk to homes behind dunes. A great fit for a surfer looking

for their next wave,

he bay gives me more opportunity to do things, whether I want to boat, kite surf, dive or whatever, and then I can walk right to the beach.

you’re buying, but where you’re buying,” Tripodi said. “It’s your

Thomas Tripodi

views, the area, the amount of property and bulkhead. You have

but the beaches are public and residents can’t access the beach directly in their backyard. Bayfront properties

of the salt,” he said Homeowners must also winterize their boat, store a floating dock and protect furniture from weather damage. “Living on the water takes a little adjustment,” Tripodi said. “Then it’s relatively easy.” When purchasing on the water, buyers have to consider flood insurance. “Its not cheap, but if

which offer direct

you’re living on the water, it’s part

private access to the

of the expenses,” Tripodi said.

water. “I personally

“Interest rates doubled in the last

like the bay, but I

couple of years, but it’s insurance

understand everyone loves the

that in case something happens

ocean,” Tripodi said. “I could live

you’re covered. It’s important.”

on the ocean and be happy, but for me, the bay gives me more

is going to cost. How deep is the

opportunity to do things, whether

water? How expensive

I want to boat, kite surf, dive or

are repairs?

whatever, and then I can walk

pretty exquisite because we have

everything on your deck to get rid

are mostly houses,

to consider how much everything

“Waterfront living in this area is

this community.”

right to the beach.” Living on the water offers

Tripodi knows from experience that being by the water can enhance your lifestyle, making the extra costs worth it. “You could always fix up a house,” he said. “But if you could buy a location,

a big tide change so the water is very clean,” Tripodi continued. “Since there is very deep water,

Q: What is the most

important thing a buyer should do when purchasing waterfront property?

A: You want to know the

condition of the bulkhead. Get an expert, some people hire a home inspector but they’re not experts. You want a bulkhead expert. Get someone that is qualified to look at the bulkhead, the life of it, and figure out how many years you can get out of it.

Q: What is the typical lifespan of a bulkhead?

A: Typically you’ll buy a house with a 20-year-old bulkhead and you’ll have to reface it within one to five years. That will last you an additional 15, 20 years before at some point they start leaking sand and you have to deal with that. Eventually you’ll have to replace it and you’ll want a good bulkheader.

you have the ability to keep a 70-foot boat, a sailboat with a huge keel or a mega yacht docked in your backyard.” But living on the water isn’t

Q: How much does a

exclusive to boaters. “I love it

bulkhead cost?

because even if you don’t use a

A: A new bulkhead can cost

boat, just to have nobody behind your house, you have this level of privacy,” Tripodi said. “I live on the water,” he said. “I

Perfect for relaxing and entertaining outdoors.

get to see all the greens and blues and the seals, crazy stuff.” “There’s pods of whales

residents a unique experience, especially in Long Beach.

get by or somewhere you can see the water and change the house later.”

around $1,000 per linear foot. Most houses here had 50-feet of bulkhead, so costs could be around $50,000. But you could also reface your bulkhead and put another layer on the original one, which can last another 15, 20 years for a fourth of the price.

that have come to Long Beach

“I swore I wasn’t gonna come back

recently,” Tripodi said. “And

to Long Island, because

when I go fishing in the ocean,

I don’t love suburbia,” Tripodi

you’re in 30 feet of water and you

said. “But when I found the Long

buy a home, you’re not looking

Beach community, the mentality

for an investment,’” Tripodi

was so different and more open

said. “But the nice thing about

than many places on Long Island.

waterfront is that it can be a

Carolyn Argento

fantastic investment.”

Sales Manager/Associate Broker

see these huge whales. It’s stunning to see these whales right on our shores and it’s so beautiful.”

“Everybody’s in relaxed mode,”

“When I sell real estate, I tell people, ‘Look, you’re buying to

he continued.

Herald Content Studio articles are produced by the Herald's marketing division and independent of the newsroom. The Herald may be compensated by featured companies or purchases made through these articles, which does not constitute the Herald's endorsement.

— Madison Gusler

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS GREAT HOMES - Thursday, August 20, 2026 - 5

ugust is a wonderful time to savor the final stretch of summer—a season filled with sunshine, relaxation, and making lasting memories. From beach days and backyard gatherings to evenings spent with loved ones and friends, it’s a wonderful reminder to enjoy the moments and the places that make us feel at home. Whether you’re making the most of your current home or considering a move before the seasons change, August can be an ideal time to explore new possibilities. As the #1 brokerage on Long Island,** Douglas Elliman is proud to help guide your real estate journey while supporting the communities we’re honored to serve. Wishing you an August filled with sunshine, memorable moments, and a wonderful finish to the summer season.

-Carolyn Argento

Adam Malmut

Alex Portes

Alex Rubin

Amr Elguindy

Angela Alaimo

Anna Mieczkowska

Anthony Aiello

Arianna Wynn

AuYeung “OJ” Ching

Barbara Gunn

Carmela Urso

Christina A. Carter

Crystin Quick

Cynthia Altkin

Donna Nardi

Emily Skelly

Emily Wilson

Eugene Clark

Gil Shemtov

Glen Fox Team Lead

Gregory Naudus

Janet Deutsch

Jenna Delaney

Jimmy Amram

Jonathan Gottesmann

Jonathan Yunger

Joyce Coletti

Karla Grasso

Katy Sarge

Kristin Altfather Team Lead

Laura Dello Russo

Lisa Corso

Lisa Luttinger

Lori Goldfarb

Marina DeNapoli

Maria D. Gallagher

Mary Lanzillotta

Michael Nolan

Monika Dvorak

Pat Corso

Richard Iorio

Richard Pook

Robin Terzi

Rosalie Garcia

Saul Sharabi

Tamta Gigilashvili

Theresa Balazs

Tom Tripodi

Team Lead

Agents Not Pictured: Nia Belton, Patrick Nolan and Arsen Khaimov.

Vanessa Adams

Carolyn Argento Branch Manager

Looking to make a strategic move in your real estate career? Scan the Code to Visit Us Online

Long Beach Office | 30A West Park Avenue | 516.432.3400 | elliman.com 110 WALT WHITMAN ROAD, HUNTINGTON STATION, NY, 11746. 631.549.7401 © 2026 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. IF YOUR PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY LISTED WITH ANOTHER REAL ESTATE BROKER, PLEASE DISREGARD THIS OFFER. IT IS NOT OUR INTENTION TO SOLICIT THE OFFERINGS OF OTHER REAL ESTATE BROKERS. WE COOPERATE WITH THEM FULLY. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.

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6 - HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS GREAT HOMES - Thursday, August 20, 2026

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HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS GREAT HOMES - Thursday, August 20, 2026 - 7

Two Generations Working Together

For All Your Real Estate Needs

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Jonathan Gottesmann

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HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS GREAT HOMES - Thursday, August 20, 2026 - 9

8 - HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS GREAT HOMES - Thursday, August 20, 2026

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10 - HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS GREAT HOMES - Thursday, August 20, 2026

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HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS GREAT HOMES - Thursday, August 20, 2026 - 11

Factors to consider before a Florida move

Karla V. Grasso

or decades, Florida has been a popular destination for many Long Islanders looking to retire, escape harsh winters and take advantage of the state’s lack of an income tax. But while the Sunshine State continues to attract buyers, the financial picture isn’t as simple as it once was. “I think people think it will be less expensive, but in reality it’s not,” said Douglas Elliman Realtor Karla Grasso.”Insurance, groceries and other costs are not that much different.” For many buyers, the biggest surprise is that the total cost of living in Florida has increased over the past several years. Home prices rose sharply during the migration boom, making it harder to find the bargains that once attracted so many New Yorkers. Grasso said buyers should look beyond a home’s purchase price. Homeowners insurance has increased dramatically in many parts of Florida

Courtesy of Madison Gusler/Herald Long Islanders moving to Florida must be prepared for the warm weather to last year-round instead of enjoying the seasons. because of hurricane risk, while higher home prices, homeowners association fees, special assessments and property taxes can add significantly to the cost of ownership. Although Florida has no state income tax, those expenses can narrow the financial advantage. Everyday expenses have increased as well. Grasso said many people are surprised by rising grocery, healthcare and utility costs, along with heavier traffic in many popular communities. “I also think they don’t realize that it’s hot down there, very hot, and there’s no change of seasons, which I think most people love the most,” Grasso said.

The financial adjustment isn’t always the hardest one. Grasso said many people don’t realize how much they’ll miss the life they’ve built on Long Island until after they’ve moved. “They don’t realize how much they miss old friends and family members and gettogethers,” she said. “I am finding I am looking for shortterm rentals for my friends to come home for longer visits and family occasions.” Before putting a home on the market, Grasso encourages homeowners to look closely at their finances. “If a family is considering moving, the financial questions they should be

thinking about would be how much cash will remain available after their sale, after taxes and mortgage payoffs,” she said. “Is there enough left as a nest egg?” Taking time to understand the financial realities and personal tradeoffs can help families decide whether Florida is still the right place to call home. — David Arkin

Karla V. Grasso Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

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KARLA V. GRASSO Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

516.972.9525 c

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HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS GREAT HOMES - Thursday, August 20, 2026 - 13

Interior design trends buyers are embracing

Crystin Quick or Crystin Quick, a licensed real estate professional with Douglas Elliman, helping

clients envision a home’s potential comes naturally. Before entering real estate, she curated private label fashion collections for Saks Fifth Avenue, where she developed an eye for timeless style, color, texture and balance. Today, she brings that same perspective to guiding buyers and sellers through the evolving world of home design, with an understanding of which trends have staying power. “As a Certified Home Marketing Specialist, I also advise clients on updates that enhance both everyday

Courtesy Crystin Quick Real estate professional Crystin Quick has noticed a return to warmer palettes and decor when looking to purchase a home. neutrals. Natural wood tones are also

warm neutral palettes, natural wood

materials can dramatically transform

making a comeback, replacing cool

finishes and layered textures often

a home while enhancing both

gray finishes that once dominated

leave a lasting impression.

everyday living and long-term resale

interiors.

Those same design choices also

Texture is another defining feature,

tend to photograph well online while

value. “My role often extends beyond

with linen, woven materials, bouclé

creating an emotional connection

helping clients buy or sell — I

and other organic elements adding

during in-person showings. Buyers

enjoy helping them envision what’s

depth and character. Accent colors,

are looking for homes that feel move-

possible,” Quick said. “Great design

including muted blues, sage and

in ready but still offer character

isn’t about following every trend —

warmth.” The cold, all-white modern

rich espresso are being incorporated

rather than spaces that appear overly

it’s about creating spaces that feel

aesthetic that defined much of the past

thoughtfully to create timeless spaces

minimal or driven by short-lived trends.

authentic, welcoming and timeless.”

decade is giving way to spaces that feel

with personality.

living and resale value,” Quick said. A shift toward warmth Quick believes homeowners are craving what she calls “the return of

What buyers are responding to

Thoughtful updates that last

Warm whites are replacing stark

Quick said buyers consistently

According to Quick, homeowners

whites, while shades such as cream,

gravitate toward homes that feel

don’t need a complete renovation

oatmeal, mushroom, sand and soft

inviting from the moment they walk

to refresh a space. Updates such as

beige have become today’s preferred

through the door. Homes featuring

paint, lighting, hardware and natural

welcoming, layered and lived in.

— Susanna Ciurleo

Crystin Quick

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

REALTOR®, CBR®, CHMS, SRS

Local Expertise. Exceptional Service. Oceanside & Long Island Real Estate Douglas Elliman President’s Circle Top 20% of Agents Nationwide • LIBOR YPN Top Rising Star Real Producers Top 40 Under 40 Rising Star • Strategic Marketing & Expert Negotiation • Elevated, Personalized Client Experience • Seamless Transactions from Start to Closing

REAL ESTATE | 1.528994

elliman.com/crystinquick

O 516.432.3400 | M 516.404.7688 crystin.quick@elliman.com Long Beach Office | 30A West Park Ave. | elliman.com

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14 - HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS GREAT HOMES - Thursday, August 20, 2026

Art of the accent Details tell your story

How we're embracing richness, warmth and mood By Karen Bloom

he smallest details can have the greatest impact in your home. Well-placed accents do far more than fill an empty surface or occupy a corner — they bring warmth, movement and personality to a room, giving architectural features and foundational furnishings a sense of life. Decorative accents are often what give the space its emotional character. The most successful interiors rarely feel as though every item was purchased at the same time or selected from a single showroom. Instead, they appear thoughtfully collected over time. A hand-blown glass vessel, an antique sculpture, a striking piece of artwork or an object discovered while traveling can tell a story and introduce a sense of provenance that cannot be replicated by mass-produced décor. The goal is not simply to decorate, but to curate. Every object should contribute something to the room, whether through craftsmanship, texture, color, function or personal meaning. Finding the balance Luxury interiors depend on a careful dialogue between harmony and contrast. Too much uniformity can make a room feel predictable, while too much contrast can create visual noise. The key is finding a balance between the two. Structured architectural forms can be softened with sculptural or organic shapes. A sleek marble coffee table, for example, can be paired with a handwoven rug or a naturally shaped wood stool. Smooth lacquered cabinetry can gain dimension from linen, leather or textured ceramics. The contrast between refined and tactile materials gives a room depth without sacrificing sophistication. Color can work in much the same way. A neutral foundation of ivory, taupe, stone or warm gray provides a versatile backdrop for more distinctive accents. Rather than introducing an entirely new palette with every accessory, designers often repeat one or two colors in varying shades throughout a room. The result feels layered and intentional rather than overly coordinated. Scale is equally important. A collection of small decorative objects can disappear on a large console, while an oversized sculpture may overwhelm a delicate side table. Before adding an accent, consider the scale of the furniture, the height of the ceiling and the amount of visual space surrounding the piece. The power of three When arranging mantels, console tables, coffee tables or custom shelving, designers often turn to the “rule of three.” Grouping objects in odd numbers creates visual interest and tends to feel more natural and dynamic than perfectly symmetrical arrangements. The principle is flexible rather than rigid. Three objects do not need to be identical, nor do they need to be placed at equal distances from one another. In fact, varying their height, shape and texture can make the arrangement more compelling. Vary the height. Pair a substantial antique mantel clock with a slender forged-bronze lamp and a low stack of leather-bound art books. The differing heights draw the eye across the arrangement. Mix textures. Three vessels in the same general color can have completely different finishes — perhaps one with a high-gloss glaze, another in matte terracotta and a third featuring a hand-carved surface. The common color creates cohesion, while the varied textures add dimension. Consider proportion. A towering mirror or large-scale artwork may need a substantial sculptural object beneath it to visually anchor the arrangement. Smaller accents can then be used to bridge the difference in scale. The objective is always intentionality. In a luxury interior, less can often say more.

Decor with a purpose An accent does not necessarily have to be purely decorative. Some of the most successful details combine beauty with function, allowing a room to remain elegant while still accommodating everyday life. Decorative boxes can conceal remote controls or other necessities on a coffee table. A beautiful tray can organize a collection of candles or books. Throw pillows and cashmere blankets can introduce color and texture while making a sofa or reading chair more inviting. Even practical pieces such as table lamps, serving pieces and decorative coasters can become opportunities to introduce craftsmanship and personality. This approach is particularly important in large or open homes, where an abundance of space can tempt homeowners to fill every available surface.

Natural materials and artisan craftsmanship bring warmth and authenticity to sustainable interiors.

Resist that impulse. An oversized room does not necessarily need more objects; it needs the right objects. A few carefully selected pieces can have considerably more impact than a collection of unrelated accessories. Empty space is part of the composition, allowing important furnishings, artwork and architectural details to breathe. Start with the room’s foundation When selecting accents, begin with the elements that are more difficult and expensive to change. Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, countertops and architectural finishes should establish the foundation of the palette. A sofa, custom millwork or stone fireplace represents a significant investment, while decorative accessories can be changed relatively easily. Once those foundational elements are established, accents can be used to introduce seasonal color, new textures or emerging design trends without requiring a major renovation. This also makes it easier to create a cohesive look throughout the home. Accent colors can appear subtly in Soft colors and tactile layers create a bedroom designed for relaxation and several rooms — perhaps through restoration. artwork in the living room, a textile in the bedroom and ceramics in the kitchen — creating continuity without making every space look identical. Creating flow with Feng Shui For homeowners interested in the relationship between design and well-being, the principles of Feng Shui offer another way to think about the placement of decorative accents. The ancient practice emphasizes balance, harmony and the movement of qi, or energy, through a space. While interpretations vary, the underlying concept can be useful from a design perspective: Rooms should feel comfortable, functional and easy to move through. Furniture and accessories should not unnecessarily obstruct pathways, and objects should be placed with consideration for how the room is actually used. Color is another important component. Green, for example, is traditionally associated with freshness, growth and renewal. Earthier shades such as yellow, orange and brown can create a warm and grounding atmosphere. These principles can be incorporated subtly through artwork, ceramics, textiles, plants and other decorative elements. In bedrooms and other restorative spaces, softer hues and tactile materials can encourage a sense of calm. Eucalyptus, muted blush, warm ivory, alabaster and natural taupe can create a serene backdrop, while throws, bedding and hand-loomed textiles add softness. In gathering spaces, stronger accents can provide energy. Burnt orange, amber, deep red or other saturated tones can be introduced through artwork, pillows, rugs or sculptural pieces without overwhelming a more neutral foundation. The same philosophy can extend to home offices and other workspaces. Natural materials, plants, artwork inspired by water and carefully positioned lighting can create an environment that feels focused without becoming sterile. Ultimately, the most important principle is to create a room that supports the way you want to live in it. Luxury with a lighter footprint Sustainable design has become an important part of today's interiors, with homeowners looking for materials and furnishings that are beautiful as well as thoughtfully produced. Natural fibers, reclaimed wood, responsibly sourced materials and artisan-made pieces can bring both character and environmental consciousness into a home. Bamboo, rattan, organic textiles and reclaimed woods can provide warmth and texture, particularly when paired with contemporary architectural lines. Handwoven fabrics, botanical-dyed linens and globally inspired textiles can introduce a sense of craftsmanship while creating a more collected aesthetic. “There is so much diversity and a refreshingly conscious approach to design today — luxury is now defined by quality of origin as much as aesthetics,” says interior designer Barclay Butera. That philosophy reflects a broader shift in residential design: The most desirable interiors are not necessarily the ones with the most expensive objects, but the ones in which every element feels considered.

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS GREAT HOMES - Thursday, August 20, 2026 - 15

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