The Fundamentals of Interior Design

Interior Design Certification Program – The Fundamentals of Design

Author:: Theresa Stocking

Interior Design Knowledge

DesigningRooms

Living Room Design

Living Room Design Challenges

These days, the living room is one of the most important rooms in the home — and also the breeding ground for some of the most serious interior design mistakes. Luckily, whether the issue is sofas lining the walls or ignoring aesthetics in favor of strict functionality, most of these problems also have a fairly easy fix.

Keep an eye on the proportion of the furniture.

Misunderstanding proportion

Proportion is one of the key elements of interior design. Essentially, this concept boils down to the way in which items in the room relate to one another. Ideally, each component of the room varies in shape and size to keep things visually interesting, yet still come together to make the space feel properly unified.

To do this, most designers make use of the golden ratio. This equation says that furniture arrangements are most aesthetically pleasing when kept to a 2:3 ratio. Take the picture above as an example. You’ll notice it features a coffee table that’s two-thirds the length of the couch and a couch that’s two-thirds the width of the area rug. Aim to mirror these proportions in your own design.

You probably won’t have to break out any rulers to pull this look off. Use your perception to find the proper proportions. As you arrange your space, pay close attention to how these set-ups make you feel. If something feels “off,” play

around with the arrangement until you feel more at ease. At that point, your proportions will likely be in order.

Be sure to create a seating arrangement in your layout.

The layout

We’ve all seen a living room or two where all the furniture is pushed up against the walls, leaving one cavernous space in the middle of the room. While this initially may seem like a great way to make the room feel bigger, it ultimately leaves the space feeling off balance. It also vastly limits the amount of usable space.

In this case, rather than using the walls as your guide, your goal should be to create distinct groupings with your furniture. Start by picking a focal point for the room — such as a fireplace, some built-ins, or even a sizable TV screen — and build your arrangement around that point.

Most living room designs will center around this main grouping. However, that doesn’t mean it has to be the only one. If you have enough space to create an area that has a secondary function — like a reading nook or work desk — arrange those items in a grouping of their own. The important thing is that every piece of furniture feels as though it was purposefully placed to work with the rest of the items in the room.

Layer design elements to build visual interest.

Neglecting your layering

These days, living rooms are some of the most-used spaces in our homes. They’re where we go to kick back, relax and unwind after a long day. However, as these rooms have become progressively more “lived-in,” they’ve also fallen victim to prioritizing function over form to the extent that the space ultimately feels incomplete.

When your space is lacking that aesthetic touch, effective layering is the key to bringing it back to life. A complete design is made up of a combination of the following elements:

• Wall coverings: Paint, wallpaper

• Flooring: Wood, carpet, vinyl

• Furniture: Beds, chairs, tables

• Textiles: Pillows, blankets, area rugs, bedding

• Lighting: Overhead lights, table lamps, ambient features

• Wall hangings: Photos, artwork, mirrors

• Decor items: Flowers, coffee table books, tchotchkes

Your best bet is to look around the room and take stock of any layers missing in your design. Then, over time, make an effort to include them. As you add items, be sure to choose items that come in a variety of shapes, sizes and textures, so you’ll also see the benefit of additional visual interest.

Unity will make your look come together

Forgetting about unity

Sometimes, our living rooms can become collections of the design elements we’ve collected over the years rather than a single, definitive style statement. Whether it’s a result of combining households or several moves, a touch of unity is usually all it takes to pull even the most eclectic design together.

In this case, color is your secret weapon. Take a second to look at the photo above and notice how the vast majority of items fall within the same color palette. Even if you’re not a fan of matching that much, adding a few coordinating shades can help pull the room together. Barring color, you could also use pattern or texture to create a common thread.

LivingRoom:SmallSpacesPartI

We will start this module by discussing the frequent challenges posed by working within small living room spaces. If this describes your dilemma you can choose to look at the limited living space as a creative design challenge. The key to living happily and beautifully in small quarters is combining space-saving and multifunctional solutions while expressing

your client’s personal style. Smart decisions will give the client the space they need while making the room extraordinary and welcoming. These 10 tips can help you make the most of an all-important room: the living room.

1. Open it up to other rooms. If there is limited living area, you may want to view the living room as a flowing space and, when possible, open up doorways or walls so adjacent rooms blend together.

A living room can be a larger combination of a living, dining and kitchen space if you take down the walls that separate them. Likewise, widening doorways and opening them up to the ceiling will create a larger, more open feeling. If making major structural changes is not possible, try simply

Tip: 10 ways to open up a small living room.

1.Open it up to other rooms

2.Use built in furniture or shelves

3.Get creative with layout and lighting

4.Lett in natural light

5.Paint strategically

6.Skip the overstuffed look

7.Multifunctional furnishings work best

8.Use a large rug

9.Create a focal point

10.Add in personal design style

removing the doors to each connected space.

This not only will improve the sightlines and light in each room, it will allow for an easier flow of movement.

2. Use built-in furniture and shelves. It’s a good idea to invest in built-in solutions and appropriate shelving to fit your space and needs. Custom built-ins are ideal in a small room because you can size each piece of furniture for your challenging space while adding a feature or two that maximizes its use.

For example, a built-in sofa can have useful storage hidden underneath. If

hiring a carpenter or buying a custom piece isn’t in your budget, get creative and put your DIY hat on. Can you place an attractive rollaway drawer underneath your sofa? How about floating a deep shelf with brackets on a wall as a desk?

Similarly, instead of a custom-made wall unit, place shelves in an artful pattern on a wall to create a media unit. When hanging shelves, place them all the way up a wall to create a vertical pattern. Higher placement of design features helps create the feeling of volume in the room.

3. Get creative with the furniture layout and lighting. When possible, try arranging furniture to create separation between functional zones. This helps define different uses within a single room. For example, place a desk behind a sofa to fashion a workspace, or arrange your chairs and sofa in a way that clearly separates the living room from the dining space.

You can further define the layout by placing a different overhead light fixture in each separate space. For example, in the living space zone, go for a light fixture that’s close to the ceiling (flush or semiflush mount). Then, in the adjacent dining space, place a hanging pendant directly over the table.

4. Let the sun shine in. Emphasize your natural light sources to make your room brighter. A sunlit room feels more open and helps eliminate shadows that can make an enclosed area feel smaller. The simplest way to enhance natural light in a room is to place a mirror where it will reflect the light from a window. This will not only reflect light but also create the illusion of more depth in the space. When possible, place your most-used pieces of furniture — such as the sofa or your favorite cozy chair — so that they have a view of the outdoors.

If natural light is minimal, consider installing track lighting. While not taking up valuable table or floor space, its bright light and flexible track heads can substitute for direct sunlight.

5. Paint strategically. The classic tip of using white or paler hues is still spot-on advice for painting a smaller space. Also, painting the trim and walls in the room the same color draws the eye up and highlights the ceiling, as in this room.

But you can also use darker colors. Soothing hues such as navy or charcoal gray, for example, can make a smaller space stylishly inviting. The trick in a small room is to balance a darker wall with lighter elements to create depth and brighten the room. For example, place a lighter-colored sofa against a dark wall. Layer with more light-colored furniture, shiny accessories and a pale rug.

You can experiment with painted stripes on a wall. Whether vertical or horizontal, the stripes will visually expand or elongate that featured wall.

6. Ditch the overstuffed college-era sofa. This may be rather obvious, but it’s important: Avoid oversized and heavy-feeling furniture. It will take over and make the room feel smaller. Instead, opt for low-profile, streamlined furniture, particularly sofas.

Low-profile furniture essentially means low to the ground. A low-profile sofa, for example, means there’s a small distance from the floor to the sofa seat. From a design standpoint, this usually means smaller sofa legs, streamlined cushions or a narrow base.

Use the extra wall space your low-profile sofa provides to balance the space with wall decor that starts low and goes high. Great examples are hanging a large-scale art piece or arranging a vertical row of shelves that draws the eye up.

7. Multitask. When living small, it’s imperative that you ask yourself: Can this serve more than one purpose? By having key pieces pull double duty, you can easily accommodate all your living room needs. Perfect examples are a console table or wall unit as a desk and the highly useful pullout sofa bed.

Storage is another useful feature to add anywhere it can fit. Instead of dining chairs, perhaps try a bench with hidden storage. Instead of floating shelving, opt for floating drawers. They serve the same purpose and give you extra compartments for necessities. Similarly, place a tray on top of a storage ottoman to serve as a multifunctional coffee table.

8. Go big with a rug. It might seem counterintuitive, but when possible, use a rug that extends beyond the furniture in each functional space. For example, in a living area, a rug that sits under the sofa, coffee table and additional seating will draw the eye wider and make that living space appear bigger. On the other hand, a smaller rug sized just a bit larger than the coffee table can feel more like a bath mat, causing the living space to read as its limited size.

9. Create a focal point. Take advantage of a living room’s diminutive size to easily create a design feature. Specifically, choose one aspect of the room to highlight with something visually interesting. The eye will be immediately drawn to this standout feature, with less emphasis on the room’s challenging size.

A terrific example is to design a feature wall behind a sofa with color, texture or wall decor. Use a wall covering such as grass cloth, feature a mural or place different framed artwork and mirrors on a brightly colored wall.

10. Express yourself, don’t repress yourself. Just because you’re living small, it doesn’t mean you can’t include stylish features that represent you. In a small room, it’s easy for the furniture to take over the personality of the room.

Since the living room is where we spend a lot of time, imbue your room with personality via accessories that tell the story of you and your household. Creatively framed photos, a sentimental knickknack from a grandparent, or personal artwork or collections are great one-of-a-kind decorative elements that personalize your cozy living room.

LivingRoom:SmallSpacesPartII

With a few design tricks, you can make a living room feel much bigger. Try these tips for tweaking your colors, furniture, window treatments and more to make your client’s living room look and feel bigger.

1. Use plenty of light colors

You’ve probably read that painting your walls white or another light shade (like soft grey or subtle taupe) can help a room look bigger, and that’s definitely true. But you can make this effect even more powerful by using similarly airy shades for other furnishings as well.

The living room shown here includes a white rug, white sofa, white TV console and white coffee table (among other things), which together help create a seamless and breezy look.

This method doesn’t have to be as impractical as it might sound. Seating with removable covers, hard surfaces in white (such as white laminate media units or marble-topped tables) and hardy natural fiber rugs in pale shades will give you a light color scheme that doesn’t feel impossible to keep clean.

In general, choosing some major furnishings in a pale shade similar to the wall will help avoid breaking up the living room, but you don’t have to choose everything in white to benefit from this effect.

Don’t think you can live with a white sofa? A midtone grey is an excellent shade for hiding all types of blemishes because it won’t immediately show light or dark flecks (like stray hairs or lint).

2. Include hints of dramatic black

Just because you’re using a lot of light colors doesn’t mean you can’t add a little drama. Introduce small elements of black to give your living room a strong sense of contrast and therefore interest. Black-and-white patterns especially add just the right hint of black to energize a small room without shrinking it, as do black-and-white photos or art pieces.

Adding some contrast actually creates an interplay of depths, with different pieces advancing and receding, and this can trick your eye into seeing the room as a bit bigger.

3. Layer a feature wall

Speaking of playing with depth, if you want to add an interesting feature wall, consider doing it on a wall with a window and layering the dramatic treatment behind a light curtain. The wallpaper feature in this room looks a bit farther away because it’s tucked behind the simple white drapes, and that makes the room seem deeper. It also gives a visual break that keeps the paper from appearing too busy.

4. Use soft sheers

For window treatments in the living room, soft sheers are often a great pick, assuming you don’t need absolute privacy. Curtains that aren’t completely opaque let your eye take in a hint of the view beyond, which makes the room feel less closed in when the curtains are drawn.

If you want total privacy sometimes, or to be able to shut out the outside light, you can also layer sheers behind opaque panels to have both options. Choosing similar shades for the two will help them visually blend together for a seamless effect that feels big and not busy.

5. Uncover your windows altogether

Privacy not a concern in your living room? Consider leaving the windows uncovered. It removes one more element that breaks up the room, saving a precious inch or three of space and leaving the outside view fully exposed, which draws the eye outward.

6. Include lots of lighting

Natural light goes a long way toward making a living room look bigger, but artificial lighting helps too. Include plenty of light sources to create a big and bright look during the day and a more selective and cozy glow at night. Include lights with dimmers when possible and try to use lighting from at least three categories (such as floor and table lamps, hanging fixtures, recessed ceiling fixtures or wall sconces).

7. Draw the eye

Here’s a clever trick: Sometimes the best way to make a room seem deeper is by drawing the eye completely outside of it. This living room doesn’t include any feature wall treatments, but the eye can’t help but land on the fun wallpaper print in the adjacent bedroom. Placing that feature wall where it could be seen from the living room cleverly adds some interest to both rooms while making the living space feel less confined.

8. Use a generous rug

Rugs can be great for defining a specific zone as separate from its surroundings, such as anchoring a seating group in an open-concept space. However, to make a small living room look bigger, you don’t want to break it up but rather highlight a long stretch of floor.

Use a generous rug that comes close to the borders of the room to add richness and draw the eye in different directions.

9. Make use of large mirrors

Adding mirrors can seriously fool the eye into thinking the room is twice as large, especially if you use one big enough to appear almost like a door or window into another space. Look to floor mirrors, oversize wall mirrors or even stretches of mirror tile to create the illusion to maximum effect.

10. Use barely there tables

In a small space you can only eliminate so much furniture. After all, what use is a living room with nowhere to sit?

But one place you can reduce your bulky furniture is the coffee table. Use a leggy table to make the living room look bigger and allow you to stretch your legs a bit more, which help the room feel bigger too.

This trick doesn’t just apply to your coffee table. Use a sofa, chairs and side tables with long legs and a less bulky silhouette to create longer sight lines and give you more leg room.

11. Skip the coffee table entirely

Want to be truly bold? Skip the coffee table and rely on side tables and ledges for setting down drinks and other items. Leaving out the table in the center of a seating group instantly makes a living room look and feel much more spacious. Besides, often all you really need is one good footstool anyway.

12. Use open shelves

While living with less is always a great goal, sometimes you just need some extra storage. Include some open shelving without closed-in sides to stash visually interesting pieces without boxing in the room, so you don’t feel like you’ve lost 25 to 50 centimeters of space.

You can make living room storage do double duty by turning drawer units or a chest into a bench. Just make sure your storage piece is sturdy enough to hold a person’s weight.

13. Include multiple focal points

Ultimately, you shouldn’t be scared to include some pieces that add drama and personality to your living room, even if they break up the walls and don’t create a perfectly seamless and minimalist optical illusion. Including multiple medium-strength focal points instead of just one singular feature (or none at all) encourages the eye to move around the room so you take it in completely.

CreatinganInvitingLivingRoomSpace

Consider these common-sense decorating ideas to make the living room more comfortable and cozy

Is your client’s living room functional but not as inviting as they would like? There are several simple ways to make it feel more like a room they would want to hang out in.

1. Don’t make the TV a full-time focal point. Televisions, like smartphones, can deter conversation. Don’t let the TV take away valuable social connections.

If you have the space in the home, move the TV to another room, such as a den. Your client can actually live in your living room, whether that’s talking to their significant other, kids or friends they are entertaining.

If the TV must go in the living room, consider concealing it behind cabinetry. You can also partially or fully insert it into a wall niche or built-in and add doors, as shown here.

2. Anchor floating furniture. If the sofa sits in the middle of the living room, anchor it with a sofa table so it doesn’t look like a floating island. This will make the area seem more structured and substantial instead of looking as though something is missing.

You can put a lamp or two on the table to create a reading spot where side tables won’t fit. Plus, a sofa table draws your eye away from unsightly upholstery seams or lesser grades of leather on the back of your sofa.

Ideally, the table should be a bit lower than the sofa back. Tables substantially higher tend to look a bit off and can knock the back of heads.

3. Embrace nature’s softer side. Slick and polished surfaces can feel hard, and their reflections tend to cause eye fatigue — not exactly the hospitable feeling you want in a living room. Texture will add visual warmth and a richer, more tactile experience.

If you prefer the sleek look, don’t think you need to go with a rustic theme to add texture. Look for chunky woven fabrics for furniture and throw pillows, grass cloth or fabric wallcovering and natural-fiber carpets. Linen is a great choice too. Notice here how the upholstered table catches the light beautifully.

Natural materials like wood, and even a few references to flora and fauna, will also add warmth and a semblance of peace to your space.

4. Throw in some curves for inclusiveness and comfort. Curves are intuitively more inviting than rectilinear shapes. Rounded and soft, they tend to make us feel more protected and comforted.

Creating a quasi-circle, this pair of curved sofas fosters inclusivity. One side completes the other, so neither sofa feels cut off, making conversation more relaxed.

Granted, curved sofas aren’t exactly commonplace or practical in many rooms. But you can introduce curves in other ways, such as on rolled arms, rolled backs and turned legs. American midcentury modern furniture designs tend to be organically shaped with gentle contours, as shown by the grouping here.

5. Rest your arms. Arms that sit too low on sofas and chairs may be uncomfortable for many people. Before you present the furniture, be sure the guest sits down and tests it to make sure that not only the arms, but also the height, depth and back angle are reasonably comfortable. The last thing a guest wants is a sofa or chair that looks nice but that they avoid because it’s uncomfortable.

6. Avoid having fans directly above seating. Ceiling fans cool in the summer and improve air circulation for heat distribution in the winter, but rotating blades aren’t psychologically comfortable to have spinning over your head. Even if they’re securely anchored, many folks feel apprehensive sitting directly beneath them.

Locating a ceiling fan central to the room but over a circulation space or even a coffee table, as shown here, is a better approach.

7. Maximize greenery for better health. The decor in this room is gorgeous, but the fiddleleaf fig in the corner is what leaves a lasting impression.

It’s well-known that plants are good for our well-being, boosting our moods and cleaning the air. Not bad for a comparatively small investment that also adds a lot of natural beauty.

8. Aim for flexibility in lighting. Similar to dressing in multiple layers in winter, layering drapery panes over shades for maximum light adjustment in your living room will make it more pleasant to use at different times of the day and year, as well as for various activities.

Drapes also visually soften the hard-edged appearance of Venetian blinds while adding style. This living room, for example, would look a bit bland without the light blue drapery.

Make sure there are plenty of lamps near seating groups. Your mix could include table lamps, floor lamps, overhead fixtures, like chandeliers or pendants, as well as wall washers and sconces. Ideally, rooms should have three points of artificial light.

9. The soft side. A cozy throw is perhaps the easiest and cheapest living room addition. It’ll get loads of use in the winter, and even in the summer by guests who may not fully appreciate the AC setting.

Bedroom Design

Bedroom Furniture Placement

Placing the bed in the room

• If your bedroom has a great focal point, like French doors or a large beautiful window, your bed placement should acknowledge it. Place your bed opposite the focal point, if possible.

• The foot of the bed should be the first thing you see as you walk into a bedroom and should be placed furthest from the door. This isn't always possible due to architectural details like windows, doors and closets, or simply the size of a bedroom.

• When designing the bedroom try to avoid having the bed crossing the doorway as you enter, as this can make a bedroom look smaller.

• The ideal bed position allows you to walk around each side of the bed with a three foot walking space between the bed and the wall.

WorkingwithaSmallBedroomSpace

• The most successful color combinations for small bedrooms are monochromatic room designs. This style uses only one color in varying shades, tints, tones and textures in the wall paint, draperies, furniture and flooring. A monochromatic room design successfully creates the illusion of a more expansive and calming space.

Using a monochromatic color scheme in a small room will seemingly expand the space

• Scale is the most important thing to consider when choosing furniture for a small bedroom. When designing the bedroom, you want the room to seem as large as possible. Don’t be afraid to have one or two large pieces of furniture in a small space. Using a bold piece of furniture, such as an upholstered armchair or armoire will actually make a small space look less cluttered then many smaller pieces.

• When designing the bedroom, especially a small one, use armless furniture, which will take up less visual and physical space.

• Select "open" furniture, like a metal bed frame or a nightstand with a see-through glass top and legs.

• Hang a mirror where it will reflect the outdoors or a lighting fixture to give the impression of more space and light.

• Take advantage of the vertical space in a small bedroom by using tall pieces of furniture instead of wide ones. You'll get the same amount of function without losing all that floor space.

For small bedrooms, place the bed against a wall.

• Stay away from sleigh and canopy style beds. These beds have a heavy presence and will take over a bedroom, appearing to shrink it in size.

• Occasionally, angling the bed will work in a difficult space.

• If you can't fit a bedside table with lamp on each side of the bed, try hanging a pair of lighting fixtures on the wall instead. Another option is to hang pendant lights from the ceiling.

• Rather than placing one large area rug under the bed, place two identical rugs side by side and evenly spaced on each side of the bed. This will draw the eye outward and seemingly stretch the room horizontally. Using rugs with wide stripes will help elongate the room as well.

• Avoid matching bedroom suite furniture when designing a small bedroom. Matching suites can make a room look dated and crowded. Try using a mix of light and dark pieces for a fresher look.

Best bed positions according to Feng Shui tips

• In a small bedroom with no special features, the bed becomes the focal point merely because of its size. Positioning the bed in a small bedroom presents a challenge but placing it sideways against the wall is an option.

• If you wish to apply some Feng Shui to the bedroom, position the bed in the "command" position. This is where you can see the door while lying in bed but aren't in direct line with the doorway.

• According to Feng shut principles, a bed lined up with the doorway is called the "coffin position."

• The best place to put the bed is against the longest wall. If you're lucky, the longest wall will be directly opposite the door, making the ideal setup for traffic flow around the bed

• If you don't have a wall without windows and doors, try placing the bed in front of a large window, just be sure that the bed has a headboard.

Bedside Tables: Place bedside tables on each side of the bed if possible when designing the bedroom. They don’t have to match, but should be

similar in scale, color or material (wood tone, for example). Tables on each side will give the bed more presence.

Place matching lamps on each table. If you don’t have a matching pair, try to keep them similar in scale or "visual" weight. Matching lampshades can be purchased to give dissimilar lamp bases something in common.

• If you don’t have space for bedside tables for placing lamps, consider hanging a pair of wall light fixtures on each side of the bed. Another option is to hang pendant lights from the ceiling.

• Create a bedside vignette. Place a clock, a couple of hardcover books stacked up, or a vase of flowers, etc., on bedside tables or a dresser. Remember to arrange in odd numbers. Don’t over accessorize; you don’t want the effect to look too contrived.

• When designing the bedroom, keep wall art to a minimum. You don’t have to hang artwork on every wall and avoid hanging pictures on walls with windows. All you really need is something over the bed to accentuate it as a focal point. Too many pieces of art and accessories will take away from the serene environment that you want to create.

Create vignettes when designing the bedroom

• Window treatments should diffuse light and give the room a feeling of privacy. Sheers across the window with drapes hanging on the sides will lend a feeling of elegance.

• Don't block a lovely view with heavy window treatments. If privacy is not an issue, simply leave them bare.

• A window with a view of a brick wall, etc., should be creatively treated to filter the eyesore. Mini blinds or sheers will allow light to filter in while hiding an ugly view.

• Many people use a portion of their master bedroom as an office space these days.

Bedroom:MasterBedroomDesignIdeas

Design the bedroom with a cozy sitting area

• Avoid recommending large televisions for the master bedroom. The master bedroom should feel like a peaceful and romantic retreat, not a media room.

• If you have room, set up a comfy chair and floor lamp to suggest a cozy reading area.

• Master bedrooms should appeal to both sexes. Don't go too feminine or masculine with your colors and accessories. Stay away from ruffles and lace or sports memorabilia motifs. Paint walls in a neutral cool soothing grey, pale blue or green, all which appeal to both sexes. You can also take cue from the client’s perspective and opinions.

• Paint the master bath the same color as the bedroom, or in a slightly darker or lighter tone of the same color to create good flow between the rooms.

• Match the bed linens and window treatments to the color of the wall for a peaceful look. This also eliminates a cluttered look.

• Keep window treatments simple and neutral in color in the master bedroom. Ceiling to floor window drapes will make ceilings appear taller and impart a feeling of luxury to the space. If you have an ugly view or need privacy, hang sheers to filter the view.

• Shades and blinds are another option for window treatments in the master bedroom. They come in so many beautiful colors and textures and can be used alone or in combination with other window treatments.

• Your goal is to maximize the natural light coming in when designing the bedroom. If the bedroom has beautiful windows or view and the guest is not worried about privacy, just remove them.

• To make low ceilings appear higher, hang curtain rods close to the ceiling instead of just above the window. Use full length curtains that hang to the floor. This will add a longer vertical element to the room, making the ceilings seem higher.

• To widen a narrow window and allow more light in, buy a rod that extends beyond the frame. When you pull the curtains back, more of the window will show. Your goal is to have curtain panels hanging alongside rather than covering a portion of the window. Make sure the edges of the window frame don’t show though, or the illusion will not work.

• To make a window appear taller, install the rod closer to the ceiling. Add a valance to cover the gap between the rod and frame and the window will look taller.

The Dining Room

How to Seat Your Dinner Guests in Comfort

The dining room is one of the most important rooms in the house for many families. It is used to gather together for holidays, play games, or simply gossip about the latest news. You want to be sure that your guest has the best experience possible when designing this all so important room.

The rectangular dining table. Rectangular tables are the most popular shape for dining. Consider the length of table that the room can comfortably fit. Generally, 36 inches between the edge of the table and each wall or other piece of furniture will allow for chairs to be pulled out with ease.

If you can, leave 48 inches between the table and the entrance into the room. Having an arched entrance like the one in this picture stops the awkward bunching of people at your door when you announce that dinner is served.

Once you know how long your table can be, you can then work out how many can comfortably sit around it. Allow at least 24 inches of elbow room for each guest.

These days, no matter what shape or materials are used, the average dining table measures 29 to 32 inches from the floor to the top of the table.

The upholstered dining chair. The origin of the word “chair” comes from the Latin “cathedra.” Seating for bishops and lords in cathedrals was distinguished by an upright structure, while common folk sat on benches or stools.

Once you have chosen your table, you can choose your chairs. Scale is equal to comfort, and the wrong chair will be a cruel, daily reminder of that.

The most comfortable seat height for a dining chair is when there is 10 to 12 inches between the top of the seat and the top of the dining table. If your chair is 18 to 20 inches from the floor to the top of the seat, it will fit well under a standard table.

A good way to judge the quality of an upholstered chair is to check under the seat. A quality hardwood chair frame that has been doweled (small, round wooden pegs, glued and screwed into the timber joints) will last a lifetime.

The round dining table. A more intimate space loves a round dining table. If you prefer to entertain small groups of friends and family, or you don’t have a dedicated dining room, round could be for you.

Just as with a rectangular or square table, measure your space and apply the same chair measurements. Allow 26 inches per person for elbow room on a three- to six-seater and 24 inches for six or more.

A round table usually has one pedestal leg, offering extra leg room. I like the timber footrest on the bottom of this pedestal, as those seated can raise their feet off the ground and get a little extra support.

General seating guidelines:

• Four people will fit around a 36- to 44-inch table

• Four to six people will fit around a 44- to 54-inch table

• Six to eight people will fit around a 60- to 70-inch table.

The larger your round table is, the harder it will be for all your guests to converse with one another — keep this in mind if you have a large dining room and are tempted to go with a round table.

The metal dining chair. Metal furniture is popular in more minimalist spaces. Extremely hard wearing and easy to keep clean, metal chairs are terrific dining chair solutions.

Generally, the length of time any one person can sit comfortably on a dining chair is three to four hours — less if the chair has no padding. Your chairs may already come with a fixed upholstered seat cushion; if not, having a detachable cushion made is not difficult. The insert should be firm and generous, as this not only will enhance the structure of the cushion but will keep your friends and family from visiting the chiropractor.

Many dining chair backs have a rake, also known as a slope. As on the metal chairs shown here, this slant can be from 5 to 8 degrees from the top. It stops people from sliding off when they get too relaxed.

The most comfortable seat size is around 15 1/2 inches across the back and 18 inches across the front. The seat should be 15 to 18 inches deep. If it is too deep, it will press against the back of the legs and cause slouching.

The square dining table. Not as popular as the rectangular or round dining table, the square dining table has its pros and cons. If your space is small and you plan dinners for only four to six people, it is a lovely intimate design.

This stunning rosewood table is 54 inches square, which is a perfect size for six people. If you need to seat only four people, a table 36 to 44 inches square will suffice.

Everyone’s personal taste differs on how the back height of a chair should look in relation to table height. More contemporary tables like this one cope well with a shorter back, while a classic design may require a taller back. For lumbar support, a back height between 12 and 16 inches is ideal. If the chair has armrests, it needs to support the forearms without shoulders being raised. The height of the rests should be 7 to 9 inches above the seat.

DiningRoom:KeepitSimple

It's a very simple formula: Table + Chairs + Light Fixture + Dinner = You're Done! The rug, centerpiece, and any side pieces are optional. Get the table first—figure out the size you need and go from there. As long as the table fits in the room with some space to walk around it, you cannot go wrong.

The simplest way to set up a dining room is with a Price Is Right matchymatchy set. Resist the temptation. Look at how great these shell chairs look with a wooden table and a DIY light fixture in this room.

This dining area literally uses the bare minimum—just a table and chairs that let the view be the main focus.

This dining room has beautiful built-ins and trim work. These details are rectilinear while the table and chandelier bring in circles.

Here the designer has started with a base of wood with the table and chairs, brought in amber glass in the light fixture, and added steel with the cabinet.

Because the stone wall provides such gorgeous texture, the simple table and chairs are a great choice.

A spare minimal space is perfect for a hefty wood table and sculptural chairs—they really have a chance to shine here. The crisp white pendant seems like an extension of the ceiling.

One guide for getting the rug size right: Push all of the chairs out so that edges of the seats are about one foot away from the edge of the table. Your rug should be at least large enough to extend underneath this area.

Because this room does not have any sort of hanging light fixture, a tall centerpiece draws the eye up and provides a focal point.

The patterned rug is the most eye-catching element in the room, and the upholstered chairs pick up color from the rug. The soft chairs contrast with the large wooden table. Finally, the black ring chandelier brings some of the dark colors from the rug up into the lighter part of the ceiling.

A motorcycle in the dining room. Could be a deal-breaker for a couple!

The room has a base of original Victorian details, a traditional Venetian Fortuyn pendant, and a very contemporary and sculptural table. It's "Massachusetts, meet Italy”.

If you aren't comfortable with a very spare dining room, perhaps a dining room-slash-library is an idea for you. This is a great spot for getting work done and making good use of the space any time of day.

This dining room is bold and has horizontal tiers: the red stripe of lights, the wide piece of art, the chair tops, the stripe of red from the seats, and finally the Floor tiles. It looks complicated but sticking to a simple and strict color palette makes it easy to pull a room like this together.

Forget the matchy-matchy sets and go with something you absolutely love. You'll be amazed at the variety of chairs that look great with the big old dining table you inherit.

DesignStyles

Art Deco Style

With old-school swagger and irresistible glitz, art deco design makes a splashy statement in the home

What it is: Art deco style spanned the period between World Wars I and II, peaking in the late 1920s and early '30s. It emphasized form as much as function and focused on glamour and opulence. As the Great Depression deepened, so did art deco's popularity — it provided a sense of escapism for a nation that desperately needed it.

Why it works: Art deco style embodies the best of the Roaring Twenties. It's exuberant and suave, with a sophisticated elegance and a forwardthinking mindset. It broadcasts an air of luxury and whispers of the world as an oyster.

You'll love it if ... You like your jewelry bold and flashy. You dressed as a flapper for your last Halloween party. You long to live in Miami's South Beach (those gorgeous hotels!). You know the difference between a martini and a Gibson, and you'll take the latter. You have a long-standing love affair with chrome.

Style

Secret: Evocative Lighting

Mood is everything in art deco style, and layered lighting is crucial to creating the right atmosphere. Sconces and torchières beam light up or down to cast a flattering, sultry glow. Art deco fixtures were futuristic for their era, with polished, shiny materials such as chrome and brass, and many reflect the strong geometric influence that’s a hallmark of the style.

Glam it up: Art deco lighting borders on bombastic yet maintains a fundamental elegance. The sunburst pattern (a popular art deco motif, by the way) that emanates from this sconce lends a sassy top note that makes the space stand out.

Style Secret: Strong Geometry

Perhaps the signature element of art deco style is its emphasis on geometric shapes. Angular patterns, stepped designs and bold curves all highlight the look — no fussy, dainty patterns or profiles. Picture a 1930s theater marquee and you’ll have the idea.

Glam it up: Like a stroke of eyeliner, the black tile in this bath helps to define and draw attention to the space (imagine how timid it would look with the mint-green and white palette alone). It plays off the square and rectangular planes of the sink, mirror and sconces for visual cohesion and a beautiful interplay of angles.

Style Secret: Sleek Surfaces

In keeping with its optimistic overtones and view to the future, art deco is all about shine, shine, shine. Lacquer, polished wood and metal, and glossy paint combine for a slick and gleaming effect. Sprinkle glass and mirrored pieces throughout an art deco room to add to the reflective quality.

Glam it up: Want to take an art deco space over the top? Add a note of shagreen, a highly textured featherlike material traditionally made from the skin of sharks or rays. Don't worry — imitation versions on the market closely approximate the real thing without the concerns of animal cruelty.

Style Secret: Lush Textiles

Natural weaves and plain fabrics? Not in this style. Graphic patterns and sleek textures rule. Mix vinyl, silk and satin for layers of tactile interest; choose rugs, carpets and upholstery with geometric, rhythmic motifs. Animal prints feel appropriately showy as well.

Shop geometric rugs

Glam it up: A touch of metallic silver or gold brings an extra-swanky feel to an art deco room. Don’t overdo it, but feel free to choose textiles that are shot with shimmer: a coverlet woven with gold threads, a pillow embroidered with silver detailing.

Style Secret: Black and White

Black and white is the iconic art deco palette. Classic, sophisticated and timeless, it has an inherent drama that fits this style like a custom Chanel suit. And combined with the shine that typifies the art deco look, a black and white color scheme simply dazzles.

Glam it up: Craving color? Go bright. Golden yellow, kelly green, peacock blue and regal purple all evoke the energy that pervaded the art deco era at its peak. Be savvy about using these brilliant hues, however — art deco interiors tend toward minimalism, so err on the side of restraint. Play them against a quieter backdrop and limit them to one or two dominant choices to avoid an over-the-rainbow mishmash.

Style Secret: Lacquered Furniture

True to the hallmark art deco gleam, lustrous lacquer became popular in a big way during this period. Its attention-getting gloss makes exotic elements, such as this fan-shape headboard, feel even more so. You can't go wrong with classic black, red or white, but think beyond the basics — consider spicing up a simple palette with one signature piece lacquered in an outrageous color such as persimmon.

Glam it up: Give lacquered case goods even more pizzazz by bedecking them with glamorous hardware. Seek out vintage door, drawer and cabinet knobs and pulls, or consider some of the excellent reproductions that are available. Choose angular and, yes, geometric shapes that fall in step with the lines of the time.

Style Secret: Mirrored Furnishings

Mirrored consoles, chests or tables are a must in an art deco room. While you don’t want to go crazy with them (the space shouldn’t feel as if you can never escape your reflection), two or three judiciously chosen pieces help to bounce light around and bring the sparkle.

Glam it up: Hang a framed mirror above a mirrored piece of furniture for a dramatic one-two punch. The white bamboo that surrounds the mirror in this living area blends into the background just enough to avoid overshadowing the mirrored table that’s the real star of the room.

Style Secret: Symmetry

True to its emphasis on line and form, art deco style has a fundamental symmetry that departs from the earlier Victorian and art nouveau philosophies of decorating. This symmetrical approach extends to all aspects of the style, from architecture to furniture design to the placement of art and accessories.

Glam it up: Symmetry doesn't mean rigid lines and straight profiles. The theatrical, flowing curves of this mirror maintain balance but help to soften the space. The arrangement on the table beneath bears out the theme of repetition.

Arts and Crafts Style

With a dual focus on nature and craftsmanship, Arts and Crafts home interiors have a wholesome, organic appeal

What it is: Unlike more loosey-goosey design styles, Arts and Crafts operates within a well-defined set of parameters — and for a well-defined reason. The Arts and Crafts movement took off around the turn of the 20th century as a backlash against the fussy, overwrought style of the Victorian era. It rejected the factory-produced furnishings and decorative accents that prevailed at the time, embracing instead natural beauty and traditional craftsmanship. Artisans such as Gustav Stickley (who coined the term Craftsman, sometimes used for this style) and William Morris were seminal in establishing the Arts and Crafts code, and it characterizes much of architect Frank Lloyd Wright's work.

Why it works: Arts and Crafts style is driven not only by clear design guidelines but by an entire canon of beliefs. It has a refreshing honesty and purity of spirit. Arts and Crafts interiors are full of heart and harmony, a holistic reflection of the ideals that gave rise to the style in the first place.

You'll love it if ... You've ever made a pilgrimage to the Gamble House. You think nature is the greatest designer of all time. You're more comfortable in hand-knit sweaters than in sequined scoop necks. You spent your honeymoon camping under the stars. You say homemade gifts are the best kind — and you mean it.

Style Secret: Well-Crafted Woodwork

Simply put: You can’t have Arts and Crafts style without wood. It’s probably the single most important element, and it largely informs the emphasis on natural, organic beauty that defines this decorating approach. You’ll almost never see painted wood in an Arts and Crafts interior — instead, the focus is on rich stains that preserve and showcase the natural beauty of the grain. Oak is the iconic wood of this style, but pine, maple and other indigenous species also appear.

Look closer: Arts and Crafts woodworking isn’t just about the material; it’s also about putting the handiwork on display. In this foyer and living area, you can clearly see the joinery and the meticulous detailing in the paneling, stairways and trim. The stain amplifies, rather than hides, the natural variations in the wood.

Love this style? Find an architect to create your dream home

Style Secret: Colors from Nature

The classic Arts and Crafts palette takes its subtle, muted beauty straight from the natural world: stones, bark, leaves, grasses. Although you don't have to limit yourself to browns and greens, any hues that are less obviously organic — such as blue — should be dusty or dirty. Here's one fail-safe way to approach it: Study the flora and foliage that grow in your home and neighborhood, then translate those colors to your interior.

Look closer: The warm, rich colors in this space meld together as beautifully as they would in the outdoors. Although you won't always see hues in Arts and Crafts interiors that are as bright and clear as the yellow on the walls, this one works because it both blends with and enlivens the woodwork, upholstery and art-glass window. It's sunny and light without venturing into pastel territory — which would be an Arts and Crafts no-no.

Style Secret: Functional Furnishings

Arts and Crafts style is as far from frothy Victorian sofas and ornately carved case goods as it’s possible to go. Instead, it embraces sturdy, unadorned, comfortable furnishings that are built to last and are as much about function as form. What they lack in ornamentation, they make up for in the attention to detail and materials. Although the offerings on the market today aren’t necessarily handmade, as was de rigeur in the past, choose ones that look as though they could be.

Look closer: Most Arts and Crafts-style furniture is heavy on the wood, but that doesn’t mean you’re doomed to an aching spine from hard chair seats. Simple leather, cotton or linen upholstery, as in this living space, makes for a softer landing and feels appropriate to the design.

Style Secret: Natural Flooring

Carpet? So 19th century. Arts and Crafts flooring falls right in step with the natural aesthetic: hardwood (planks or parquet), stone, slate. Tile with an Arts and Crafts glaze, a specially applied matte finish that lends tremendous depth, works beautifully in a mosaic grid. Cork is a great choice as well.

It almost goes without saying that you don’t want to hide these materials under too many rugs, but if you do bring floor coverings in, keep them true to the color scheme, choose a natural weave and don’t get too ornate with the pattern.

Look closer: Avoid flooring that looks too uniform, edgy or mass produced (this is not the time to lay vinyl tiles or experiment with concrete). The slate in this entry bears striking variations in color that show nature’s hand at work, and each piece has a one-of-a-kind pattern that no machine could duplicate.

Style Secret: Hand-Painted Details

With the Arts and Crafts emphasis on the handmade, stenciled and handpainted details grew popular as an answer to the manufactured, massmarket wallpapers and other decorative treatments of the Victorian era. Simplicity is the key — keep these touches minimal to avoid visual clutter, which goes against the aesthetic. As with the palette throughout, themes and colors with ties to the natural world always feel appropriate.

Look closer: It's not just about the visuals — it's about the message. The words painted in this stairwell speak to the idea of peace, amity and warmth that goes hand in hand with Arts and Crafts style. Whether you're inscribing a favorite saying or stenciling a leaf pattern, be sure the connotations feel as apt as the decorative flourish.

Style

Secret: Mica and Tiffany Lighting

Arts and Crafts puts less emphasis on accessorizing than some styles, and decorative flotsam is minimal. That means lighting, as one of the only real accents, needs to pop. Both mica and Tiffany (or Tiffany-inspired) glass lamps and fixtures fit the bill: mica for its organic feel and rich glow; Tiffany glass for the proud way it wears its craftsmanship. Although those two lighting styles are Arts and Crafts icons, you could get away with lighting that checks the other boxes (warm-tone metals; clean lines; simple, geometric forms).

Look closer: In keeping with the utilitarian lines and lack of curves that define the Arts and Crafts look, fixtures generally have clean, squarish or angular profiles. Here, the pendant complements the horizontal and vertical planes of the breakfast nook, yet its sloping sides break the tension and prevent a static feel.

Style Secret: Art Glass

Jewellike in their detail, stained and leaded glass windows and doors are common among Arts and Crafts homes. They feature linear, geometric patterns or motifs that call to mind elements of the natural world.

Look closer: Glass panes such as these are one of the only instances in Arts and Crafts style in which form and function have equal weight. Even so, the windows above don't sacrifice outdoor views in favor of embellishments — the exterior space beyond remains clearly visible.

Style Secret: Warm Metals

Chrome and steel look as out of place with this style as flip-flops with a cocktail dress. Bronze, brass and copper with oil-rubbed, antique or patinated finishes complement the signature wood tones and enhance the overall feel of warmth. Metals often are hammered or otherwise distressed in a nod to craftsmanship.

Look closer: The oil-rubbed bronze on the fixtures here not only picks up the warmth of the woodwork and stone but also grounds and gives definition to the space. Although the lighting may not be strictly classic Arts and Crafts, its strong, boxy shape and simplicity complement the feel.

Contemporary Style

What's contemporary style? Strong lines, smooth forms, minimal accessories — with room for rule breaking

What it is: Technically, contemporary design is rooted in the moment (as in this moment, here and now — how’s that for having to think on your feet?). But in broad terms, it represents an about-face from the conventions of traditional decor.

Less is more: smooth profiles instead of ornamentation, solid or subtly patterned fabrics in lieu of colorful prints, minimal accessories rather than big collections. While it doesn’t have the overt warmth of older design styles, it won’t cast a chill either.

You’ll often hear the terms “contemporary” and “modern” tossed about interchangeably, but they’re not exactly the same thing. Modern refers to a specific design movement that arose in the early 20th century and follows stricter guidelines; contemporary, by definition, is more fluid and tolerates a bit of rule-breaking.

Why it works: A strong emphasis on line and form — two essentials of good design — gives contemporary style its energy. These rooms are designed with abundant open space and natural light in mind, which makes them feel airy and expansive. Because there isn’t any clutter, every piece has to count.

You’ll love it if… At art museums, you gravitate to the abstract works. You have more than two books with the word Simplify in the title. Heavy curtains make you claustrophobic. Geometry class was the high point in your school day. You’re tempted to stash most of your stuff in storage and redecorate all in white.

Style Secret: Simple Lines

Repeat after us: lines, planes, angles. Now make it your mantra. Contemporary design is oriented along a strong horizontal-vertical axis, from architecture to furnishings. The structure of a space becomes an integral design component on its own.

But also consider… Does that mean everything in your home must have square corners? Of course not. Balance the look with a few curves; the key is to stay true to simple geometric forms: circles, orbs, cylinders, waves. Leave the scallops and curlicues to your more traditional friends.

Style Secret: Sophisticated Neutrals

Cream, white, tan, beige, black and red — these are the bedrock upon which contemporary design lies. Monochromatic and tone-on-tone schemes allow the lines and shapes within a space to take center stage.

But also consider... Neutral is a pretty broad term. Choose a shade with undertones that add interest (the stony gray-blue shown here, for example). Try cream with a hint of pink, gray with a touch of green, or beige with some gold. If you want a jolt of brighter color, keep it judiciously focused: an accent wall, say, or a bold piece of furniture.

Style Secret: Open Space

Contemporary design celebrates what isn’t there as much as what is. Empty space takes on an almost sculptural quality, carved out by the strong architecture. Because of their openness, contemporary interiors are especially well suited to large-scale furnishings, art and accents.

But also consider… Too much space with too little to anchor it makes a room feel lost and forlorn. Break furnishings into groupings to help divide up a large room. Chandeliers or pendant lighting can visually pull down a high, cavernous ceiling.

Style Secret: Unadorned Floors

If you’re wild for the feel of bare feet on cool tile, you’re in luck. Contemporary design eschews rugs and carpeting in favor of sleeker, harder surfaces: bamboo; blond woods such as maple or ash; stone; ceramic. Ebonized planks or dark-stained concrete can ground contemporary rooms (as long as you’re prepared to make friends with your dust mop).

But also consider… That’s not to say you can’t have a rug in a contemporary home; it’s just a matter of choosing the right one. You wouldn’t necessarily want to throw down a fringed Oriental, but a geometric design or a textural weave might be just the ticket. Or experiment with a grid of carpet tiles. If you must have wall-to-wall carpeting, choose a solid color and a very low pile.

Style Secret: Serious Shine

Contemporary rooms are nothing if not polished, and that means high-gloss surfaces fit right in. Chrome, steel, lacquer, glass, plastic, tile and more all work in tandem to help bounce light around a space. Mix materials for contrast and depth.

But also consider… Too much reflectivity will make your eyeballs quiver. Break up the gleam with matte elements — check out the beautiful interplay of glossy and honed surfaces in this bath. Or temper shine with texture, such as ribbed glass or brushed nickel.

Style Secret: High-Impact Furniture

Contemporary furnishings have clean lines and striking profiles. You won’t find a lot of skirts or slipcovers — even the most tailored versions can look too soft and full. Instead, focus on pieces that show a little leg.

But also consider… An overdose of long-legged tables and chairs can make a space feel awkward and unsettled. A low-slung sofa, a simple ottoman or cylindrical end tables will offset the spindliness of their counterparts.

Style Secret: Center-Stage Windows

Can you picture tasseled draperies or a balloon valance in this space? Neither can we. Windows in a contemporary milieu are usually abundant, and they’re often left undressed to highlight their crisp lines and let natural light flood in.

But also consider… If privacy’s an issue, or if you just don’t like feeling that you’re on display, integrate sleek window treatments that won’t stop the eye: sheers or solid panels that blend into the wall color; narrow blinds; mesh shades. As long as they’re done in a neutral solid or barely-there print, and kept very tailored, Roman shades are another possibility.

Style Secret: Minimal Accessories

Remember how we said, "less is more?" Eschew eclectic groupings, fussy finds and bric-a-brac; keep accessories simple, few and well-chosen. In this pared-down arrangement, every piece adds drama without detracting from the streamlined feel.

But also consider... Collectors, take heart: You're not doomed to a series of garage sales. While this isn't the setting for the family Staffordshire, simple objects that feel of a piece — such as white porcelain vases or glass fishing-net floats — fall in step with the aesthetic. Arrange them in a tight, uniform manner that enhances the space rather than detracting from it. Bookshelves should be filled with hardbacks; paperbacks are better suited for traditional rooms.

Style Secret: Overscale Art

Walls in contemporary rooms don’t usually have much in the way of adornment: no heavy moldings, no plate collections, no family photo groupings. So they’re a perfect foil for large works of art that shine best amid gallery-style simplicity. Canvases should be framed very cleanly, if at all. Streamlined sculpture, black-and-white photography, glass and prints also work. And if you like your art a little edgy, it’ll feel right at home. But also consider… Art shouldn’t compete with an accent wall or another attention-stealing focal point. Torn between one or the other? In our book, art wins.

Country Chic Style

Embrace rustic simplicity with whitewashed woodwork, faded florals, soft pastels and more

Can’t decide between a simple Scandinavian interior and a pretty country style? Why not have the best of both worlds? “Pale country chic” is an interior style that blends the two, combining the pared-back simplicity of a Scandinavian home with the rustic whimsy of a country one. So if you have a penchant for pretty pastels, faded florals and washed linens, or if your dream home is a pale and pretty country cottage, this is the look for you.

1. Whitewash the woodwork. The first step is to lighten up the space and draw as much daylight into your room as possible. Dark-toned wood finishes are counterintuitive in this look, so keep surfaces and woodwork light-toned or white.

Whitewashed floorboards and crisply painted walls create a bright and relaxed backdrop in this airy room. The white painted beams magnify the effect.

2. Go for faded florals. Bright country florals are out for this look, but soft, washed-out patterns are definitely in. Pick florals in soft pastel shades or choose vintage textiles for that authentic soft-wash look, and you’ll create a room that is understated and pretty.

You don’t need too much pattern to create this effect either. Mixing in just a few patterned cushions or pillowcases with crisp white bedding, as was done here, will be enough to create the desired effect.

3. Mix and match patterns. There’s nothing precious or overtly expensive about this relaxed look, so you don’t need to concern yourself with hunting down matching accessories or formal items. A hodgepodge of patterns and textures in faded tones is much gentler on the eye.

This soft and inviting sofa piled with pretty pillows is a perfect effortlesslooking example of how to mix florals. As long as they are tonally similar, the look will work.

4. Favor pastel colors. Approach color cautiously. Avoid anything primarytoned and embrace anything pastel-toned.

The result you’re aiming for is a soft wash of color, so pick a pastel shade with plenty of white. If you are unsure, consider whether the paint color jumps out at you or softly recedes; you want the latter. The finished look should be soothing and calming — a big piece in a soft color will act as a backdrop rather than the main feature.

5. Edit your accessories. While vintage accents and quirky accents are to be encouraged, shelves full of clutter are not. A few select items arranged with care and consideration will help to create the calm simplicity you’re after.

This glass vase of hydrangeas is a great example. They provide just enough color to tie in with the gentle floral pattern of the curtain fabric, but do so without dominating the space. A simple photo frame and a small tray of accessories provide additional interest without overpowering.

6. Fill your home with flowers. This look has romance at its heart, so plenty of flowers are essential. Forget expensive blooms in formal arrangements; choose relaxed arrangements in an assortment of vintage vases or enamel jugs instead. Sweet peonies, scented hyacinths or hedgerow treasures are just the ticket.

7. Try soft gray as a neutral. To get a soft, bleached-out look, consider using gray as your neutral instead of a warmer-toned beige. Gray has the effect of toning down a warm palette and creating a softer, cooler look instead. It’s a perfect backdrop for pastels and florals.

8. Embrace vintage. Modern furniture shapes and glossy finishes are definitely not elements of this look. Vintage free-standing items, such as the bedside table here, are in.

A well-worn patina or a distressed paint finish is encouraged as well. Preloved pieces of furniture have a history and a story that fit right in with this style. Pale finishes are key, but don’t worry if you fall in love with a darker piece; if the shape and size are right, then you can simply lighten it up with a wash of chalky furniture paint.

9. Love linen. Texture is an important element of this style. Washed cottons, natural wood and matte surfaces are all important elements, but the king of them all has to be linen.

A piece of vintage linen with a soft red stripe is a key indicator of timeless country style and mixing in a few pieces in the form of a pillow or a throw, as shown here, adds a layer of texture and authenticity that elevates a pastel-based design. On a smaller scale, consider the same approach for your tea towels.

10. Painted Furniture. Pale cottage chic is simple, rustic and pared-back at its heart, so vintage furniture and mismatched items are to be embraced. This dining room, with its pastel chairs, whitewashed paneling and vintage signage, is a perfect example.

Industrial Style

With its raw, utilitarian appeal, industrial style gives modern homes a sophisticated edge.

What it is: It used to be that industrial wasn’t even a style — it was a fact of workaday life. But somewhere along the way, we began to appreciate its lack of pretension and the visual appeal that lies within utilitarian surfaces, stripped-back architecture and salvaged objects. It exploded into a trend that shows no signs of waning, and these days, you’re as likely to find industrial décor within the walls of a multimillion-dollar mansion as in a converted loft in a gritty part of town.

Why it works: There’s a hardworking, proletarian quality about industrial style that resonates, and because it celebrates humble materials, it can be as affordable as you need it to be. Pared back to the essentials, it showcases the beautiful interplay between pure form and function. It’s unassuming, comfortable in its own skin and all the more chic for it.

You’ll love it if… You’re allergic to big-box furniture stores. Your favorite shop is the salvage yard. Your classmates wore neon and Keds; you paired steel-toed boots with vintage dresses. You saw Factory Girl for its title alone. You had cinder-block shelving well beyond your student days.

Style Secret: Functional Furnishings

Industrial furnishings are minimal and no-nonsense, with strong, clean lines and without a hint of excess. Mix new pieces with reclaimed ones — search thrift stores, flea markets and garage sales, and don’t be shy about investigating curbside castaways. Repurposing is central to this style: wooden crates turned into tables, old lockers used as storage, battered ladders turned into shelving.

Smart strategy: Although homey, cushy furnishings can feel out of place, you don’t have to perch on metal stools and sleep on cots, either. Padded pieces should be simple and free of frills — nothing breaks the tension of industrial décor like an overstuffed wing chair or a tufted ottoman. Choose solid upholstery in natural textures and neutral colors.

Style Secret: The Art of Salvage

Industrial style erases the line between trash and treasure and reveals beauty in everyday flotsam. Singular finds with emphatic lines and forms, from old parking meters and typewriter tables to overscale bolts and gears, give the look its characteristic strength. And if they look a little shopworn, so much the better.

Smart strategy: Honestly, it's hard to go wrong here. If a striking object or a collection of pieces speaks to you, display it with pride. You can create greater impact by grouping like objects together or turning salvaged finds into furniture.

Style Secret: Open Space

Industrial style had its genesis in big, cavernous buildings — warehouses, garages, packing plants — so it only makes sense that an open floor plan is a hallmark of the look. High ceilings cap expansive rooms that often serve multiple functions, such as a kitchen, dining room and living area all blended into one.

Smart strategy: Break up a long expanse of space with well-placed furniture. An island and twin pendant lamps visually separate this kitchen from the space beyond. You'll also want to pay special attention to creating visual echoes and a unified look throughout to avoid a jarring stop-startstop effect.

Style

Secret: Edgy Art

Would it feel awkward in a traditional home or a sweet, feminine cottage? Then it’ll probably be the life of the party in an industrial space. Old road signs, giant abstract works, mixed-media sculptures — risk taking gives this style its swagger. Found objects, such as pulley wheels and giant faucet handles, can be mounted on the walls or massed on shelving for a powerful graphic punch.

Smart strategy: When in doubt, you cannot go wrong with black and white photos. Keep mats wide and frames ultrasimple. The grid on this wall, bound by a custom rail-style treatment, is stunning because of its sparseness.

Style Secret: Cool Colors

When you think about an industrial color scheme, you probably envision gray, gray and gray, with a little black and white thrown in for kicks. And while it's true that the range of colors in this style tends to be narrower than in others, there's wiggle room in the palette — as long as you don't overdo it.

Start with a background of neutrals that have cool undertones, and then you could bring in a measured dose of citron, tangerine, fuchsia or another saturated hue. Or go dark and moody, as in this bathroom: indigo, plum, moss.

Smart strategy: Even if you decide to stick mostly with grays, vary the shades — some light, some deep, some in the middle — to keep the space from feeling one-dimensional. Because of the emphasis on materials such as concrete, corrugated metal and perhaps a smidgen of rust, industrial style usually has built-in texture to break up the monochromatic palette. But if a room feels flat, consider adding a few more tactile elements to lend depth.

Style Secret: Heavy Metal

If there’s a go-to industrial material, it’s metal. Tin, steel, iron and aluminum create a clean, cool, functional sensibility and lend just the right touch of sleekness without feeling too upscale. Anything that can be forged or welded is fair game: exposed ductwork, stairwells, countertops, divider walls.

Smart strategy: Choose “cold” metals (not gold or brass) that have a matte finish or a kiss of patina. Industrial style is not about shine and sparkle — save that for your jewelry. And break up all the metal with other materials, such as wood or stone, to keep from feeling as though you live in a factory (unless, of course, that’s what you want).

Style Secret: Architecture on Display

Architecturally speaking, an industrial room leaves nothing to the imagination. The infrastructure is often on full display, right down to the ductwork. Unfinished walls, bare windows and exposed beams show the structural skeleton that holds the space together. It's rough around the edges, in the best possible way.

Smart strategy: Embrace the rawness. Don't cover cinder block or brick walls with plaster or hide ducts and pipes behind a ceiling. If privacy's a concern, consider a frosted treatment or film for windows, but obscuring them with blinds and curtains can detract from their austere appeal.

Style Secret: Basic Flooring

The rise of industrial style may be the single biggest reason that concrete floors entered the mainstream. Whether they’re honed or polished, they telegraph industrial chic like few other materials can. But wood (preferably showing its age), epoxy, simple tiles, or even rubber can be pitch perfect. Here’s a test: Would you put it in a warehouse? If the answer is yes, you’re good to go.

Smart strategy: Rugs and carpeting dilute industrial’s hard edge. If your tootsies are numb with cold or your knees ache from unyielding surfaces, consider splurging on radiant heating beneath the floor, or invest in portable cushioned mats for areas where you stand for long periods (such as the kitchen)

Japanese Style

Peaceful and pure, Japanese interior design style celebrates the ancient customs of the East

What it is: Japanese interior decorating is rooted in traditions that have existed for millennia. Guided by a longstanding canon of symbols and beliefs, it upholds the ideals of harmony, balance and order, and places a high value on the beauty of the natural world.

Why it works: Japanese style conveys a sense of purity and integrity that's like a balm to our frazzled lives. It's ever so slightly exotic and mysterious yet comforting at the same time.

You'll love it if ... You'd rather have a plate of soba noodles than a bowl of fettuccine. Your shampoo smells like cherry blossoms. You rely on the sound of trickling water to soothe you to sleep. Your pick for movie night is Lost in Translation — again. You've traded your hefty German cleavers for lightweight santoku knives.

Style Secret: Serenity

If there's one word that sums up Japanese style, it's Zen — a Japanese sect focused on meditation. Interiors that reflect this influence whisper of contemplation, balance, peace. Lines are simple, vistas unobstructed, light abundant and the overall feel calm.

East meets West: Even if the bones of your client’s space aren't strictly Japanese, you can approximate the look by paring down. Strip the space to the essentials: Pack away clutter, undress walls, get rid of superfluous furnishings. Arrange what's left in a way that maintains an open, flowing sensibility.

Style Secret: Shoji Screens

Shoji screens, a traditional element of Japanese architecture, are made from translucent paper (or in the modern world, glass or plastic) anchored by a grid of natural wood. Because space in Asian homes tends to be at a premium, shoji screens often slide open and closed rather than swinging out.

East meets West: You can interpret shoji screens for all sorts of different uses: windows, kitchen cabinets, room dividers and more. The key: Don't obscure them with furniture or accessories — you'll block the light that filters through and mar their austere beauty.

Style Secret: Natural Colors

Nature has an immense influence on Japanese style, and the palette is pulled from the world around us, inspired by earth, wood and stone. Use neutral, subtle colors that don't fall at extreme ends of the spectrum. Think creamy whites rather than stark ones, espresso browns instead of black, pale and midtone woods, and subdued greens and grays.

East meets West: If you long for a bold stroke of color in a Japanese interior, you can pull it off — carefully. Limit yourself to one or two hues, in very restricted focal points, or else you risk upsetting the balance that's so vital to Japanese design. For instance, you might group a few sculptural red vases on a mantel or strew deep blue floor pillows in the living room.

Style Secret: Water Features

Japanese style emphasizes strong connections with nature, and water — from bubbling fountains to rushing streams — helps to create a tranquil atmosphere. Whether they're in an interior room or an exterior living space, water features also bring a subtly dramatic note that can't help but capture attention.

East meets West: A fountain isn't the only way to bring flowing water indoors. Try a freestanding or built-in water wall, a trough that recirculates water or an indoor-outdoor rain shower. Or get creative and choose artwork that depicts streaming water or waves — it's the next best thing to the actual wet stuff.

Style Secret: Plants

Introducing a touch of living greenery infuses a Japanese-style interior with vitality. Choose traditional plants such as bonsai and bamboo, potted in sleek, minimalist containers made of wood, stone or another organic substance. Keep the palette focused — green foliage is more appropriate than a bounty of colorful blooms.

East meets West: Want to venture beyond classic Japanese plants? Bring in specimens that suit the style's sleek, minimalist look: horsetail, ornamental grasses and more. Or explore ikebana, the time-honored art of flower arranging (and there's no shame in having the florist pinch-hit if you're all thumbs when it comes to floral design).

Style Secret: Rocks and Stones

There's that link with nature again. Rocks are central to Japanese style, and they're most often found in traditional rock gardens. Smooth, polished stones, such as river rocks, best complement the serene and fluid feel of a Japanese space.

East meets West: By all means add a rock garden to your landscape but extend the use of rocks to your interior too. Use them to accent tile in a bathroom, as a floor surface or even as a wall covering.

Style Secret: Tatami Mats

Made of woven rushes, tatami mats are the quintessential Japanese floor covering, and they symbolize Japanese style in a way that few other objects can. They're minimalist and sleek, helping to ground the space in serenity.

Traditionally, tatami mats are arranged in very specific sizes and patterns according to the dimensions of the room, but there's no need to adhere to old rules — choose the mat that works best for your space.

East meets West: Think beyond the floor. Hung on the wall in the same way that you might mount a rug or quilt, tatami mats punctuate a space with quiet tone and texture. You can also use them as table runners or coverings.

Style Secret: Sculptural Lighting

Natural light drives Japanese style, but fixtures with clean profiles and minimalist lines stand in after the sun sets. Here, a Japanese cricket lamp hangs pendant style above a floating nightstand, instead of a more traditional table lamp. You could also choose iconic fixtures that evoke the spirit of Japanese decor, such as the Nelson pendant lamp.

East meets West: Hanging paper lanterns are quintessentially Japanese but think beyond garden parties and kids' rooms.

Key West Coastal Style

A wide range of influences have created the small island’s signature breezy style

Just 94 miles from Cuba, Key West is a singular American destination. The small island’s influences include Spanish settlement that dates back to Ponce de León in 1521, a British takeover during colonial times, shipwreck salvagers, fishermen, traders, Cuban culture, Ernest Hemingway, Jimmy Buffet, LGBTQ pride and so much more. The resulting culture and atmosphere is unique and relaxing. Here are some ideas for how you can create the look for your client.

Front porch panache. Key West is a great spot for watching the world go by and waving to it from the front porch. Carpenter Gothic balustrades, shutters and light blue ceilings are typical marks of a quintessential Key West porch.

Cuban flavor. At just 94 miles from the southernmost tip of the Keys, Cuba is a Key West neighbor that shares a history of Spanish settlement and has remained an ongoing cultural influence. Cigar boxes and a conga bring a little Cuba to this D.C. bachelor pad, while the style, colors and bullfighting poster bring to mind one of Cuba and Key West’s most famous residents, Ernest Hemingway.

Framing the distinctive artwork from a cigar box top is an easy way to bring a taste of Cuba into a room.

Fish. Deep sea fishing is an activity associated with Hemingway and Key West. These days many prefer to use cruelty-free resin or metal fish sculptures as trophies.

Palm fronds. Even if you live in a climate like that in Minneapolis where you can’t plant palm trees, you can bring a bit inside. Look at the effect just two fronds have in this light and airy kitchen.

A woven ceiling fan. Add an air of Key West to your sunroom or porch. A tropical-style fan with woven blades will add Keys texture to your look.

Bahama shutters. These crank-out shutters shade the sun like awnings while allowing ventilation. They are a distinctive architectural element that calls to mind the Keys.

Here’s a glimpse at how Bahama shutters can enhance the interior of a porch. This mix of wood tones with soft greens is a popular Key West palette.

Fearless color. Key Westers are not afraid of bright color. Palettes pulled straight from a parrot’s feathers create a happy place to party.

Outdoor spaces are a good place to infuse with color inspired by Keys style.

No room for a hammock? A rainbow of picket-fence fish folk art swimming across a wall creates a little Key West spirit.

Fabulous greens. For those who prefer a more limited color palette, soft greens are a Key West way to go. This light mint works well with different shades of wood and woven textures that are prevalent all around the island.

Bring your Key West color inspiration into a workspace, so you can enjoy some of that barefoot and happy feeling even if you’re facing an endless spreadsheet.

British Colonial style. The British took over the Keys from Spain back in 1762. Furniture they brought with them had to be light, small and easy to move. Tropical items like bamboo headboards, trunks that doubled as chests of drawers and other campaign furniture like folding chairs and desks are typical of the look that still influences Caribbean style today.

Gauzy canopies. Draping white fabric from a bed recalls the light and airy feeling of a mosquito net, a necessity before screens were invented in the early 1800s.

Colorful beach cruisers. Better for your body and the environment than mopeds and scooters, taking a spin on one of these will make you feel like a kid again. And they look adorable next to the house.

Mediterranean Style

Bring home the popular look with the region’s characteristic colors, ceramics, furnishings and more

On the Mediterranean coast, whitewashed houses enveloped in the scents of nature call us across the sea with their beguiling charm. Let the following 11 characteristics of their distinctive style serve as a guide to re-creating, at any latitude, the timeless appeal of the region’s architecture and interiors.

1. White. In a warm climate, protection from the sun and heat is crucial for the greater part of the year. It’s no surprise, then, that buildings are often coated in reflective white. Besides the cooling and antibacterial properties of the traditional lime wash, the white finish promotes visual relaxation and a sense of cleanliness for both the eye and the mind.

2. Blue. More than any other color, blue acts as the counterpoint to white’s dominance in the region’s architecture. Its diverse shades — pale blue, turquoise and ultramarine are the most frequently used — recall the sea and break up the uniformity of a white backdrop. Blue is great not only for doors, window frames and finishes, but also for furniture and accessories.

3. Stone. Highly prized and frequently used throughout the area, stone is often left exposed in both outdoor and indoor spaces. It’s also versatile, allowing for the creation of beautiful pieces like this amazing bathtub. Especially characteristic of the region is tuff, a stone formed from compacted volcanic ash.

4. Ceramics. Italy’s majolica pottery, Morocco’s zellige tile, and the azulejo tile of Spain and Portugal are a huge part of the Mediterranean tradition. The use of new or salvaged tile, especially in bathrooms and kitchens, not only evokes the charm of Mediterranean style, but also allows for thousands of decorative possibilities from different tile combinations.

5. Frescoes. In villas and palaces, Mediterranean style includes rich ceiling frescoes and sophisticated floor designs, often featuring floral motifs or mythological scenes. These elements can blend with contemporary furniture for a more modern take or create deliberate accents within the Mediterranean aesthetic.

6. Handmade. Whether you’re in Italy, Greece or Morocco, many elements in the Mediterranean architectural vernacular have smooth shapes that have been lovingly fashioned by hand. Chairs, countertops, built-in benches and niches are often hand-crafted. Especially when stylishly embellished with personal items, such elements speak to an individual and human touch.

7. Wooden furniture. The furniture that has a privileged role in Mediterranean interiors is therefore also handmade, unsophisticated and marked by the passage of time. This furniture exalts in the beauty of the simple and slow work that lies at the heart of its creation. For a traditional Mediterranean aesthetic, look at conifer woods especially.

8. Natural materials. Alongside old stone, lime and handmade finishes, we often find furnishings and household linen made from natural materials. This bedroom is a perfect example: The cotton sheets are an invitation to fall asleep (linen would have worked as well), while the straw baskets are a perfect decorative accent.

9. Reed pergolas. On hot and sunny days, pergolas with reed lattices make terraces and gardens enjoyable even during the warmest hours. Their structure promotes the growth of climbing plants, which add spontaneous organic decoration. In the evening, a latticed pergola beckons to the guests of the house, serving as the natural center for a delightful outdoor dinner.

10. Olive trees in terra-cotta pots. If one had to name a plant that, more than any other, influenced the history of every Mediterranean civilization, it would be the olive tree, which grows throughout the Mediterranean basin. These trees are often found planted in wonderful (and natural) terra-cotta pots.

11. New Mediterranean minimalism. The area isn’t just about traditional style consisting of architectural staples; it also showcases the best expressions of contemporary architecture and design. Especially interesting are projects that integrate the Mediterranean spirit with a minimalist touch: houses large and small that deftly mix concrete with old, original materials, essentially representing the abstract icons of traditional forms while maintaining that smooth and cozy Mediterranean touch.

South Beach Style

This breezy Miami look features lots of crisp white and leafy hues for a laid-back feel that celebrates summer

South Beach, Miami, Florida. It’s such a beautiful place to live and visit that the local decor inspires interiors all over the world.

First and foremost, South Beach style is about capturing the breezy summer spirit of Miami. With lots of sparkling white, transparent materials and other pale neutrals applied to the major surfaces, these interiors appear airy and open. This sort of palette is great for making any space look as large as possible. South Beach real estate is hot, so every bit of square footage needs to be used to its fullest potential.

Even if you don’t live in such a coveted climate, you can borrow from South Beach style to get a big-and-breezy, sophisticated-yet-fun look in your home by following some or all of these tips.

Rich Textures

To keep white-based palettes interesting, before even adding another color, use plenty of diverse textures, such as pale, grainy woods, stone, leather, metallics and woven natural fibers, such as these breezy caned chairs.

You can also introduce visual textures such as painterly stripes and subtly rich wallcoverings. The color of this wall treatment may be a humble beige, but its subtle stripe texture makes it read as anything but ho-hum.

Oceanic Accents

A big reason South Beach palettes often rely on lots of white is because they already have a natural accent color: the blue of the ocean. Sometimes you don’t need much else when you have a view onto a stunning coastline.

White with subtle tones of blue create a feeling of serenity and high design. This room projects a feeling of comfort, yet retains its contemporary feel.

Of course, if you don’t have windows overlooking a beach or permanently sunny skies, you can still add fresh aqua shades through upholstery, pillows and artwork. We may sometimes associate blue with sadness, but this hue feels happy and energetic, and it makes bright whites look even brighter.

Pops of Color

Besides its breezy atmosphere, South Beach style is known for its fun hits of vibrant and pastel colors. Applying these hues to transparent or softsheen materials like glass and velvet will give the color extra depth, making it appear rich and complex rather than overwhelming.

Try adding saturated purples, magentas and teals, soft dusty pinks, vibrant yellows, leafy greens and bold oranges — and don’t be afraid to mix. Using a diverse palette of accent colors takes the emphasis off any one color, so the overall look is actually less dramatic than sticking to one hue.

Pops of White

Speaking of dramatic, another color approach is to use a saturated color all over, with accents in white to tone things down.

This teal room includes white pieces such as the wall art, table and light fixtures to break up the solid shock of color, making the look bold but tempered. If a space feels just a little too dramatic, try layering in more white to bring the look back down to earth.

Architectural Features

South Beach interiors dabble in bright hues, and they aren’t shy about having some fun with the exteriors as well.

A pastel hue on the outside of the home makes for a welcoming look and can help accentuate architectural features. Sky blue is again an excellent choice — it’s too natural a hue to ever go completely out of style.

Lush Leaves

South Beach is rife with dreamy greenery. Take inspiration from the plentiful palms and bring in plants and leafy patterns to give your home a similar lush appeal, regardless of its location. Even a few oversized fronds laid on a table or arranged in a vase can bring in a sense of the outdoors and add some interesting organic lines to offset rectangular furnishings.

Nature-themed wallpapers like this one also create a sense of greenery, even if your views are of a city far from the beach.

Look for simple leaf prints, or try one with exotic animals to add an extra splash of color.

Indoor Trees

Why settle for a print when you can have the real thing? Indoor trees like the fiddle-leaf fig bring the drama of a southern palm inside — but in a more manageable size. The fiddle-leaf fig has leaves in a dramatic scale, as well as an eye-catching silhouette.

Soft Wood

Perhaps inspired by driftwood washed ashore, South Beach homes often feature soft wood tones finished in whitewashing or subtle stains to achieve a relaxed but put-together look. Embrace a perfectly imperfect knotty wood for flooring and you can skip the area rug. The rich character of the material adds enough interest on its own.

Artistic Expression

Finally, South Beach interiors don’t aim to be cookie-cutter. Miami has a thriving art scene, and South Beach interiors are frequently full of unique pieces and individual expression. Be confident in your own taste and include at least one piece of art that speaks to you, even if it isn’t to everyone’s taste. And the bigger you can go, the better.

Traditional Style

What it is: From antique furnishings to floral-print fabrics, traditional style sometimes gets a bad rap as fusty and outdated. But that’s missing the point. While it’s true that this look takes its inspiration from the past, it’s really about comfort. Every element feels familiar, properly placed and predictable — in a good way.

Why it works: There’s a reason that traditional decorating has thrived for so long. It promises warmth and welcome, and it delivers. Refined furnishings, mannerly textiles, dignified colors and a sense of order make this beloved style easy to live with. What’s more appealing than that?

You’ll love it if… Chaos makes you queasy. Your favorite movies are untouched by Technicolor. You’ve vacationed in the same spot since you were 12. You swoon over Blue Willow and Wedgwood. Your ideal day involves a bookshelf full of classics and a tumbler of Scotch. You own anything tartan.

If you’re thinking Yes! Totally me!, read on for a breakdown of what traditional style is all about, plus tactics for keeping it current.

Style Secret: Symmetry

The traditional look is all about balance, from architecture to furniture placement. Furnishings tend to be grouped in formal arrangements that invite conversation and positioned along the axis of a room. Your pieces don’t all have to match, but this isn’t the style for you if you’re drawn to an offbeat, eclectic mix.

Make it fresh: Although you don’t want to stray too far from symmetrical

placement, there are subtle ways to keep a room from feeling static. Prop a tall mirror against one wall, hang art in a grouping that creates a sense of motion, or angle a cocktail table next to an armchair. Here, the irregular shape of the rug loosens the room just enough to give it energy.

Style Secret: Soft Edges

No sharp angles here — traditional rooms emphasize curves and sinkright-in comfort. Skirted pieces feel cozy and genteel and counterbalance leggy tables and chairs. Cushions are plump; pillows are plentiful.

Make it fresh: Keep skirts tailored to avoid a dated look, and choose neutral, textural fabrics to make an old-fashioned sofa or chair feel of the moment. And refrain from cramming lots of tufted furniture into a single room, or you risk looking too Victorian.

Style Secret: Conservative Color

In a traditional space, color doesn’t shout — it’s laid-back and mellow. Neutrals such as cream, beige, taupe and tan prevail, but deeper browns, reds, greens and blues (think about a paneled library) look fab in traditional interiors as well.

Make it fresh: Neutrals are always in good taste, but if you don’t want to play it too safe, think beyond the basics. Pale blue, lavender, spring green, chamois or even soft red can work in this way.

Keeping colors tone-on-tone is the key to making them sit down. Bright shades, such as lemon yellow, fuchsia or turquoise, feel newer, but to keep the style planted in traditional territory, balance them with more restrained hues — and stick with conventional positioning, architecture and accessories.

Style Secret: Rich Wood Tones

Walnut, cherry, mahogany, oak — darker wood tones rule traditional style (leave the bamboo and blond maple to another house).

From walnut railings on a white staircase to cedar beams across the ceiling, it provides the warmth and coziness so essential to this look.

Make it fresh: Let hardwood floors shine: don’t leave them completely bare, but don’t obscure them with a rug that’s too big. Layer in wood furnishings that are in the same color family for a collected, yet still pulledtogether, look.

Style Secret: Statement Molding and Trim

Traditional rooms are known for their beautiful finishing touches. Often, millwork and plasterwork bear strong detailing, including venerable motifs such as egg-and-dart or Greek key, and is painted crisp white or ivory. Although traditional trim doesn’t have to be ornate, it does need to add visual weight; skimpy moldings or a floating mantel won’t seem at home.

Make it fresh: Give an elaborately carved fireplace surround an updated spin by keeping the mantel arrangement simple and clean. Let wainscoting blend into the wall. Eschew elaborate columns and finials in favor of cleaner — but still classic — lines.

Style Secret: Exotic Rugs

Kilims, Persian carpets and Oriental rugs never go out of style (good thing, because after you spend the cash for a top-quality floor covering, you won’t want to hide it away). And they’re like fine jewelry: You can make them work with anything. They have a way of blending into the background, yet their presence always anchors the room.

Make it fresh: Frankly, this is one element that’s better as-is. But if you want to try something different, you could layer an Oriental rug on top of a sisal or seagrass one (not, we beg you, the other way around). Or play with scale: a small rug next to a larger one, or three narrow rugs in a row.

Style Secret: Gentle Shine, Showy Sparkle

Skip the chrome — you want metals with soft, warm undertones. Think brass, bronze and copper for lighting and plumbing fixtures. Gilt-framed mirrors and artwork are always on point. Crystal chandeliers and sconces complement traditional elegance nicely.

Make it fresh: First: No '80s-era shiny brass. Instead, choose metals with some tarnish, patina or texture. Oil-rubbed bronze looks updated but blends well with classic décor. Or try pewter — it worked for the Colonists.

Style Secret: Pretty Patterns

Plaids, stripes, florals, toile and more — each has a place in traditional style (sometimes, all in the same room). Feel free to mix and match, but stay in the same tight palette, and don't go too bold or splashy.

Make it fresh: No matter what, patterns in a traditional room should have that fundamental sense of symmetry. But you can update them by choosing an oversize scale and upbeat color. The damask fabric on the dining chair here adds punch without straying too far from its traditional roots.

Style Secret: Refined Window Treatments

Sweeping silhouettes, luxe fabrics and embellishments such as tassels draw attention to traditional draperies. Panels — either straight or pleated, and with or without finials or tiebacks — and valances are old standbys. Simple plantation shutters work well too.

Make it fresh: Don't let draperies puddle, which feels tired. Layer simple curtain panels over a rattan or bamboo shade instead of sheers. If you're a fan of streamlined styles, choose Roman shades. Just be careful about matching curtain fabric to furniture fabric; too much of the same print can feel cloying and overwrought.

Style Secret: Artful Accessories

Just as a good host blanches at the thought of seeing guests underfed, a traditionalist can’t stomach cold, blank walls or sparsely populated shelves, which defeat the all-important air of welcome. Collections are massed together or fanned out in a logical way: china, figurines, plants, books, boxes, globes.

If it’s not mounted over the mantel, art usually follows the hang-it-at-eyelevel rule; a group of similar pieces often sport identical frames and are arranged in a tidy grid. Plates and platters look right at home on the walls. Mirrors tend to be grand and gracious (think sunburst, bull’s-eye or Venetian).

Make it fresh: Austere paintings and sculpture will strike an off note in a traditional space, but you don’t have to stick with Renoir reproductions and hunting scenes, either. Lots of modern art feels soft and graceful enough to fit in, and, of course, black-and-white photography is timeless and versatile. Leaving canvases frameless can make them feel less formal.

Unless you’re into fern bars, pass up frilly plants in favor of more sculptural foliage. Consider simple ironstone, Delft or creamware instead of porcelain; balance elaborately patterned pieces with clean white ones.

Hollywood Regency Style

True to its Tinsel town roots, Hollywood Regency style is theatrical, elegant and ready for its close-up

What it is: Born of larger-than-life movie set design during the golden age of filmmaking, Hollywood Regency brings the glamour and glitz in a big way. It was intended to create a dramatic backdrop for the real drama taking place in its midst. Actor-turned-designer William Haines and his contemporaries Dorothy Draper and Billy Baldwin pioneered the look; in recent years, star designers such as Kelly Wearstler and Jonathan Adler have helped to propel it to renewed popularity.

Why it works: Hollywood Regency samples from a smorgasbord of other styles (chinoiserie, neoclassical, art deco, modern) without feeling like a mishmash. It exudes sophistication and confidence, with an undertone of swagger. The appeal lies in its refined air and impeccable elegance, as well as the way it encourages personality and individual expression.

You’ll love it if … You belt out show tunes in the shower. Friends label you a drama queen (affectionately, right?). You think every space — even your laundry room — deserves a crystal chandelier. Your garden is filled with lotus flowers; your yard, edged with bamboo. Sunset Boulevard tugs at your heart every time.

Style Secret: Small-Scale Furnishings

With an eye toward cocktail parties and conversation, Hollywood Regency interiors put people squarely in the spotlight. The classic school of thought is to keep chairs, chaises and sofas low slung and modest in scale so they don’t overshadow the guests perched on them, and to arrange them in a way that invites tête-à-têtes. Avoid scattering furniture against the perimeter of a room, or, worse, grouping it around the TV.

Behind the scenes: In such a dramatic style, you might imagine that furnishings would be outlandish. But Hollywood Regency furniture actually hews to the neoclassical-inspired lines of traditional English Regency antiques, albeit with a more modern and stylized air. Art deco, with its symmetry, ornamentation and streamlined profile, also informs the look.

Style Secret: Strong Color

If there's one color scheme that anchors this style, it's black and white, which epitomizes the sharp contrast that characterizes Hollywood Regency interiors (and shows up well in films). But jolts of bright, juicy color lend the energy that the look demands. Think turquoise, fuchsia, tangerine, regal purple. Keep the palette focused to avoid a kitschy rainbow effect.

Behind the scenes: Layer in color in a way that celebrates contrast. A teal chair against a sapphire-blue wall won't pop in the same way that a red one against bright yellow will. Metallics also can help enhance and amplify the brights, as long as they don't compete with them.

Style Secret: Bold Pattern

Pattern helps to embellish the Hollywood Regency setting. Trellis and animal prints, Art deco and neoclassical motifs, wide stripes and geometrics all are on point, as is black and white harlequin flooring. Leave the timid florals and mannerly plaids to another style; this one requires a more emphatic approach.

Behind the scenes: Wallpaper is back in vogue, and Hollywood Regency practically begs for it. Now’s your chance to work in a showy print or splurge on a hand-painted mural-style design. If you worry that a whole room will be overkill, try papering just an accent wall or the ceiling, or set off an oversize panel with a gilt frame.

Style Secret: Lacquered Finishes

What's a glamorous room without a little sheen? With lustrous depth and a tough-as-nails finish, glossy lacquer elevates pedestrian furnishings and takes elegant ones over the top. Choose vivid colors, such as tomato red, Prussian blue or kelly green, and lacquer unexpected pieces — perhaps a bamboo étagère or a pedestal table — to make the look even more daring.

Behind the scenes: True lacquering is a complicated and time-consuming process, usually handled by pros. So, take a shortcut. We won't tell. Home centers and paint stores carry lacquer spray paints (Krylon and Rustoleum are two major brands) that will give you the gleam you're going for.

Style Secret: Luxe Fabrics

Picture film heroines of the ‘30s and ‘40s: swingy silk gowns, satin robes, fur stoles. Now translate that to your interiors. Thick, opulent fabrics stand up to the grandeur of a Hollywood Regency room. Choose textiles that appear as lush to the eye as they feel to the hand: velvet, chenille, suede.

Find fabric in every material

Behind the scenes: Selecting the right fabrics is only half the battle — you’ve got to use them to maximum effect. You want more yardage, not less. Allow for lavish draping, generous gathering and a broad sweep. Imagine the bed in this photo with a few skimpy sheers underneath a plain, flat canopy. Kind of loses its magic, doesn’t it?

Chinoiserie

Chinoiserie, a French term that denotes Chinese-influenced style, became a fashionable top note in Hollywood Regency interiors, thanks to the fascination with Asian décor that arose in Old Hollywood (Grauman's Chinese Theatre, anyone?). Whether it appears in the guise of wallpaper, furniture, art or accents, it features intricate detailing; traditional Asian motifs, such as birds, flowers and landscapes; and, as often as not, touches of gilt. It feels outré yet familiar at the same time.

Behind the scenes: There's a difference between authentic Chinese décor and chinoiserie, which originated in 18th-century Europe. Chinoiserie represents a more flamboyant and whimsical interpretation of Chinese style, and this makes it especially well-suited to a room with theatrical flair. But because Hollywood Regency embraces a collected, worldly look, Chinese antiques and accessories feel equally appropriate. Blend the two together for a pleasing punch-and-counterpunch effect.

Style Secret: Mirrors, Mirrors

The question of mirrors in this style is not whether, it’s how many. (Mirrors and movie stars were made for each other, after all.) Mix mirrored panels, framed mirrors, furniture and accents to create sparkle and cast light. Use them judiciously, however, or you’ll feel like you’re in a carnival funhouse. While a layered effect, such as a framed looking glass mounted on a mirrored wall, can be striking, a lot of different mirrors reflecting each other will add up to visual confusion.

Mirrors for every nook and cranny

Behind the scenes: You should always pay attention to what a mirror will reflect, but it’s especially important with Hollywood Regency’s emphasis on showcasing people at their best. Guests may not mind catching a glimpse of themselves as they sip a drink or nibble a canapé, but it’s a rare soul who wants to watch herself consume a three-course meal in the dining room. If a wall mirror won’t work in your space, consider other reflective surfaces, such as mercury glass lamps and mirrored tabletops or picture frames.

Style Secret: Fanciful Details

Just like the cinema, Hollywood Regency style evokes a sense of escapism. Outrageous accents are right at home: luxuriantly carved frames and mirrors, voluptuous crystal lamps, tasseled pillows, splashy art. Include touches of the exotic and avant-garde, and focus on personal pieces that lend a sense of who you are. Emphasize character — mass-produced objects rarely hold the charisma that this look demands.

Behind the scenes: Hollywood Regency style is not cluttered, but neither is it spare. Here’s the tricky part: editing in a way that walks the tightrope between minimalism and excess. A fabulous piece should command the spotlight, so let it — crowding it with flotsam will dilute its power. Select accents with enough presence and panache, and they’ll make an impact through quality rather than quantity. And above all, be sure there’s a common denominator, be it color, finish or theme, among the items you choose. Otherwise, the look can quickly devolve into chaos.

Working with Pattern and Texture

The key to using pattern and texture successfully in a room is getting the right balance. You can add texture with textiles, natural materials and architectural features, and incorporate pattern to define zones and bring a space to life. Here are ways to use them effectively without going overboard.

Mix Fabric Patterns Like a Pro

Typically, use 3 patterns in a space. This is just enough to make it interesting, but not so much that it will seem too busy. But don’t be afraid to break this rule. It will totally depend on the look you are going for.

Remember that your patterns don’t have to match, they just have to blend. They have to have some element in common. That might be color, style, or scale.

Start with a great pattern

This will be the jumping off point for the other fabrics that you choose so of course it makes sense to start with one pattern that the client loves. Chances are this pattern is going to say something about her personality and the colors will make her feel good. Does the first choice pattern have a organic origin or is it a geometric?

Almost all pattern will be either organic or geometric.

• Organic patterns can include floral patterns or anything inspired by nature. They can be very literal or a bit more abstract. Organic patterns can have swirl and movement and it is typically difficult to see where the pattern repeats itself.

• Geometric patterns are those that have a definite pattern to them and typically have a lot of contrast too. The simplest geometric patterns are polka dots or stripes, but there are many varieties of interesting and more complicated geometric patterns as well.

• If your first choice is organic inspired, you are going to want to choose a geometric next. If your first choice is geometric, you will want to choose something nature inspired.

Example

Little girls room or nursery, starting with this floral fabric. Since this is a you will want to choose a geometric next.

Consider color.

Is there a color in your first choice fabric that you want to highlight? Use that color to make your second fabric choice. Back to the example… Bringing out the green, a geometric pattern that mimics lattice to go with a sort of garden feel.

Now think about scale.

Large scale prints and patterns work best on large pieces like curtain panels and duvet covers and small scale prints and patterns tend to work best on smaller items like throw pillows, lamp shades, or valences. Take that into consideration, but don’t be afraid to break the rules a bit

That said, for your 3rd pattern choice you are going to want to consider scale. If both of your choices so far are medium to large scale, you will want to choose a small scale pattern for your third choice. But if your choices so far are smaller in scale, you will want to choose a large scale pattern. This is also a perfect opportunity to pull out another color from your choices so far.

Back to the example…

The first 2 choices are medium in scale so go very small scale with this lilac gingham. Not only is it perfect for the feel of a little girl’s room, but it pulls out the purple perfectly and because the pattern is so small, almost acts as a solid without being a boring solid.

Maybe for a boy’s room?

This fabric combination would work anywhere.

Organic inspired fabric: Here it is 2 ways…

Subtle, but very pretty grown up look…

Mix natural and tactile textures.

The colors in this design are neutral, but the layers of natural texture add a depth and warmth that bring an otherwise flat design to life. The sheepskin, natural-fiber flooring, linen and painted brick wall work really well together to make the room more tactile.

Don’t forget the importance of touch as well as looks in a room. Texture can dampen sound and give the room a cozier feel.

Mix Wild Patterns While Keeping Calm

Go neutral for the main furniture pieces and crazy with curtains and pillows for a comfortable space with just enough energetic character

To achieve a relaxing feeling in a living room, it makes sense to choose neutral colors and tame patterns for the majority of the visual space. But that doesn’t mean you have to strive for blandness. Adding dollops of overthe-top pattern here and there in the drapery, pillows, chairs or rug can give a room just the right amount of energy while maintaining the aura of calm.

1. Window Treatments, Pillows and Rug

Homeowners’ request: Turn a long, narrow formal living room into an open-concept room with comfortable seating for eight to ten people. They also wanted a built-in that could store children’s toys and display books and collections.

Pattern punch: Designer Claire Paquin took inspiration from Chiang Mai Dragon drapery fabric from Schumacher. “Once we saw the pattern — an

intense floral with bearded dragons and Chinese lanterns — we knew it had to take center stage as the window treatment fabric,” she says. “We drew upon the vibrant color palette of teals, reds, plums and chartreuses to create a fresh and youthful space for the family.”

To balance the intensity of the fabric, she kept the other patterns subtle. There’s a medium-scale geometric rug, small-scale geometric sectional pillows and casual tie-dye striped chair pillows. “The X-bench fabric is a teal velvet with a spider-like pattern in rich plum that works perfectly with the colors in the Chiang Mai Dragon fabric,” she says.

Other special features: Mixed materials — Lucite, faux shagreen, wood veneer, metal, velvet and satin. “The result is that the room is richly layered, so that even though the colors and patterns are playful, the room feels sophisticated at the same time,” Paquin says.

Designer secret: “The key to a successful design that incorporates many bold colors is to keep the foundational items neutral,” she says. “The rug, sectional, chairs, cocktail table and credenza are all neutral in either gray or beige tones. This allows the multicolored drapery to shine instead of becoming distracting or overwhelming. It also allowed us to pull out the teal and chartreuse accent colors in the pillows and X-benches as well as red for the decorative accessories.”

“Uh-oh” moment: “We had finalized what was a beautiful, cohesive scheme with a completely different focal fabric, but the client was struggling with the design and could not pull the trigger,” Paquin says. “When she told us that she had another fabric she wanted us to consider, we were nervous because we thought we would be back to square one and all of us had already invested a lot in the initial design.

“It turns out that when we saw the fabric, it easily slotted into essentially the same design. In the end, the most important thing is that the client is thrilled with the result. It was a good lesson for all in terms of going with your gut. And if your gut is telling you the design is not right, then keep searching until you get it right. This room reflects the personality of the client, and the last-minute change was completely worth it.”

2. Chairs, Stools and Pillows

Homeowners’ request: A comfortable, bright and durable space inside their 1960s ranch home where they could lounge and hang out with their young boys, ages 4 and 2. Having recently moved from Southern California, the couple wanted to incorporate a beach feel with ocean colors.

Special features: Custom sectional. Game corner.

Designer secret: “Keeping things neutral with the use of one or two main accent colors allows for lots of pattern play without being overly busy,”.”

3. Chairs, Pillows and Art

Homeowners’ request: A casual and comfortable gathering place for family and friends.

Pattern punch: Ikat patterns blend chocolate and citrus green, accenting the neutral sofas and patterned sea grass rug.

Other special features: Reclaimed heart pine floor. Reclaimed cypress wood ceiling.

Designer secret: “The use of the mirror above the fireplace mantel, trimmed in painted wood, provides additional light, adds to the expanse of the room and reflects the exposed-rafter and wood-plank ceiling,” architect Stephen F. Smith says. “It was a detail that the owners questioned at first, and now is one of their favorites.”

How to Pair Different Prints

From demure florals to fearless camouflage, learn to mix patterns without making a mishmash

At one time or another, we've all come across a similar pattern dilemma: What goes well with my favorite plaid armchair? Will my new chevron ottoman work with my damask bedding? Can I use polka dots, animal prints and florals in my child's bedroom?

Finding the right balance is tough, but this pattern primer will give you all the need-to-know information about your favorite prints.

Characteristics: Versatile, on trend, bold yet relaxing. Where to use it: In small doses, such as on vases, curtains or pillows. Try a tile or painted accent wall to make a statement. Pairs well with: Almost any other print, Tucker says. The trick: Keep the color palette consistent and balance the scale — one large and bold pattern, another small and subtle.

Pulling it off: To avoid a DIY look, mix it with luxurious velvets, Fenimore suggests. It also pairs well with metallics and jewel tones, especially when used as artwork.

Floral

Characteristics: Romantic, timeless, light and airy.

Where to use it: Wallpaper, draperies, bedding, pillows and upholstery.

Pairs well with: A stripe that pulls out a less-obvious color in the floral pattern — that way the room will look less “decorated.”

Pulling it off: Center a large-scale floral pattern on smaller pieces for a wonderful effect.

Characteristics: Global, eclectic, exotic, earthy, adventurous, handmade looking.

Where to use it: Pillows, dining chair cushions, curtains.

Pairs well with: Stripes, tone-on-tone graphics and solid silks, Fenimore says.

Pulling it off: “Ikats make for a great surprise lining on a more traditional drapery treatment, or as one side of portieres as you pass through,” Tucker says.

Ikat

Paisley

Characteristics: A true chameleon. Energetic, retro, daring, bohemian, but also warm and cozy.

Where to use it: Curtains, curtain linings, walls and upholstery

Pairs well with: Herringbone.

Pulling it off: “Use large scale for a bold and playful look,” Tucker says. “Keep your paisleys tonal for a more transitional look.”

Animal

Characteristics: Eclectic, sassy, fearless, vibrant, glamorous. Where to use it: Rugs, pillows, bedding, wallpaper, drawer liners and artwork.

Pairs well with: Shimmery velvets and nubby linens. Pulling it off: There is a very fine line between chic and cheap so buy the best — it needs to be top quality.

Dot

Characteristics: Fun, happy, outgoing and playful. Where to use it: Rugs, pillows and accent pieces — on a small or large scale.

Pairs well with: Similarly colored stripes and plain colors, as long as they don't compete. Pulling it off: "Steer clear of giant polka dots, or you'll look like a game of Twister," Tucker says.

Polka

Plaid

Characteristics: Buttoned-up conservative and classic; French, English and Scottish feel.

Where to use it: Upholstery pieces and headboards with straight lines; silk curtains when paired with vibrant colors.

Pairs well with: Similarly colored florals and solid colors. Pulling it off: "Pay attention to matching the pattern exactly — nothing looks worse than a badly sewn or mismatched plaid," Tucker says.

Quatrefoil

Characteristics: Tailored, formal, elegant, French. Where to use it: Upholstery on large pieces, like sofas and chairs; stencil patterns; etched glass; iron gates.

Pairs well with: Solids, stripes and chevrons, but not herringbone, Tucker says.

Pulling it off: For a look that's less formal, more eclectic and edgier, look for quatrefoil prints that incorporate at least three colors, Fenimore says.

Damask

Characteristics: Demure, subdued, versatile, traditional. Where to use it: Metallic wallpaper and on flooring and draperies. Pairs well with: Florals, stripes, solids and plaids — everything except another damask or pattern with the same scale. Pulling it off: A true woven damask can be used on the reverse as well, with subtle differences in coloration.

Camouflage

Characteristics: Adventurous, fearless, natural, forgiving, organic. Where to use it: Small accents, such as upholstered ottomans, beanbag chairs and dog beds (great for hiding all that hair).

Pairs well with: Solids, stripes, plaids and chevrons. Pulling it off: "Treat camouflage as a textural solid," Tucker says. "Keep the color palette neutral and sophisticated."

Layered Patterns

There are actually very few rules about what goes together and what doesn't when it comes to patterns (although Brian Patrick Flynn does a bang-up job of explaining pattern layering here). You can follow the color wheel or chuck it. You can stay geometric or decide that florals and plaid look divine together.

But throwing things together rarely works out. As with anything in good design, patterns should be combined with intention. And even though the rules are flexible, there are some things to keep in mind when it comes to layering patterns.

• It's good to have a unifying element. Sometimes it's color, sometimes it's color value (the lightness or darkness of a shade), and sometimes it's something harder to define (theme).

• Pay attention to the scale of a pattern. You generally don't want a bunch of large-scale patterns competing. Pick one large-scale pattern and let it be your anchor.

• Clutter is a patterned room's worst enemy. There are, of course, exceptions to this rule, but generally speaking, pattern works well when it is not competing with a lot of knickknacks or a big mess.

In the end, layering pattern can be tricky, but it is worth the effort. Layered patterns keep a room from looking like a corporate apartment. They add depth and personality and make a space unique. But doing this does take guts.

A Persian rug is a patterned masterpiece — rich, colorful and classic. It's tempting to let it be the focal point of an otherwise neutral room. But these rugs go so well with so much, there is no need to limit yourself. This eclectic room incorporates classic stripes, a modern abstract painting and a variety of patterned pillows. Together the look is a warm meeting of old and new, traditional and bold.

Here's another example of a Persian rug getting along swimmingly with multiple patterns and textures. In this room it's not just the fabrics but also the materials — stone and wood — that contribute to the overall effect. The room works because there is a yellow-beige undertone throughout, lots of black and white in different scales, and very little clutter.

Look at this traditional, subdued and elegant room just chockablock with pattern. It's on the rug, the ceiling, the screen and the pillows. It remains subtle because the colors are soft or neutral and everything about the room is symmetrical.

Using wallpaper is going to add a lot of pattern to a room. But that does not at all mean it has to be the only pattern. This bold mod flower design is in contrast to and complemented by the bold geometric rug. The greens throughout — in the painting, the wallpaper and small touches — bring the look together, and the pops of magenta add needed brightness.

Many traditional ethnic patterns are just made for combining. Embroidery of all colors and styles can work in a controlled jumble. Of course, it helps to have a low-key, neutral background like this roof deck does. It allows all those patterns to pop.

Here's another example of how many traditional and ethnic patterns can mix well. There are Tibetan prayer flags, a Persian rug and all manner of other patterns and colors. They share a deep color scheme — lots of burgundies, browns and indigos — and a geometric symmetry. But mostly they share an exotic, earthy feeling.

Here's another pattern-filled room that's brought together by the deep, rich hues. That zebra print against a Persian rug shouldn't work, but the entire room mellows it out with the earthy browns, mossy greens and dark reds.

The mod-house version of layering pattern. The various patterns, colors and textures help divide the different spaces in this long, open hallway and draw the eye forward. Why do the patterns work? Because the rest of the space is so clean, uncluttered and neutral, and because the scale and shape of the pattern are varied.

Nothing about this room can be described as clean, uncluttered and neutral, and yet the crazy mix of patterns and colors works too. Why? Because geometric lines and bright colors are repeated. See that floral design on the pastel pink pillow? It echoes the bright starburst in the wallpaper. The wooden chair matches the orangey red in the wallpaper, and the pictures themselves are part of the grid pattern. But then everything is loose enough not to look too styled. Confusing, huh?

The wallpaper and chair fabrics in this sleek, modern dining room are all in the same geometric family in complementary colors with similar values.

This traditional living room has lots of pattern, but the patterns are all repeated — three floral blinds, two plaid stools — and brought together by the same denim blue and yellow-beige. You can also pick out the small-, medium- and large-scale patterns pretty easily.

Another pattern-crazy traditional living room. Here the uniting force is golden yellow and a tactile lavishness. Everything in this room looks worthy of touching.

The patterns here are so soft and subtle, they almost register as solids. But don't be fooled; stripes, florals and abstracts are doing hard work transforming what could have been a boring room into a stunning beauty loaded with texture.

CommonTextilePatterns

Flame Stitch Patterns

“Everything old is new again" feels particularly apt regarding the resurgence of flame stitch designs. This centuries-old embroidery pattern has recently returned for a playful but sophisticated look in home interiors. Furniture, wallpaper and even trays are using it, bringing life and whimsy to interiors.

A brief history of the flame stitch. Flame stitch is a design, rather than a type of fabric. One theory that historians have about the origins of the flame stitch is that it emerged from the marriage of two embroidery stitches popular in the 13th and 14th centuries: the Gobelin (or brick stitch) and the Hungarian (or zigzag stitch). The resulting combination was a favorite of

Princess Elizabeth of Hungary, who traveled to Perugia, Italy, so often that some believe this is how the flame stitch became so popular in Italy.

Another theory is that the flame stitch developed from the influence of Middle Eastern textiles, such as ikat, that were coming into Italy via the Silk Road.

The flame stitch wallpaper with a modern twist in this photo looks bold but still works with the room's design. The warmth of the wallpaper connects really well with the wingback chairs. Upholstering the chairs in a contemporary leather linked them perfectly with the cowhide rug.

These days the flame stitch comprises a compound weave that uses natural or man-made fibers. The curtains and bed bolster shown here pay homage to the flame stitch pattern with a great deal of care and class.

. A breathtaking example, albeit on a less a grander scale than some other uses, is the delightfully modern fabric on this classic Louis-style chair design.

These modern Jonathan Adler Bargello wave pillows look like they were inspired by the diamond pattern of the 17th century. The graphic rug mingles beautifully with the pillow pattern.

Contemporary flame stitch designs. Missoni creates possibly the most well-known contemporary interpretations of the flame stitch pattern, as seen in this rug. Although Missoni's offerings have more of a zigzag than a true flame stitch, they have become go-to choices when we want to flirt with color in a space.

This rug brings a great deal of texture and life to the sitting room, while the punchy pillows serve as a necessary counterbalance.

Modern-Day Chintz

Chintz can be tricky. Its bold, old-fashioned flower prints can so easily tip into fusty English bed-and-breakfast if you're not careful. But if you are careful, it can add color, texture and a touch of classic elegance to your decor.

Maybe it's chintz's current unpopularity that makes it an excellent antidote to overly trendy, high-minded design. It pops up most often these days in Shabby Chic–style rooms, but even there it seems to have been pushed aside in favor of grain sack. In modern décor chintz warms things up, and a little goes a long way. But the best thing about chintz may be the feeling that it doesn't take itself too seriously. With chintz you can really get comfy..

This bit of chintz on this staid and elegant settee really makes the room. It adds the perfect touch of color and personality.

A subtle chintz on these two plush chairs gives what could have been a boring beige room a feminine elegance.

Shabby Chic–inspired style meets boho eclectic in this bare, pink room with a simple chintz curtain.

More modern boho with a splash of chintz. In this setting there is nothing Grandma about it.

Chintz doesn't have to be girly-girl. Just add a stag head and the room will go a bit 19th-century English hunting house.

A modern black and white chintz pattern. It adds a little warmth to this modern room. But not too much.

Chintz with the absence of accompanying frills. It's feminine but still modern and uncluttered.

You know it's the quintessential use of chintz when it looks like it would go perfectly with a nice cup of tea.

Another spot of chintz in a cozy corner.

A contemporary chintz-like pattern makes all the difference in this room. Imagine the space without it — spec-house beige.

Hounds Tooth

Named after the jagged teeth of a dog, hounds tooth is considered an upscale pattern with a gentlemanly air. While often associated with men’s suiting fabric, chef’s pants and Sherlock Holmes’ hat, hounds tooth has found firm footing in home decor. Here are the best ways to use this classic pattern.

Hounds tooth could be described as a checker pattern running a race. More dynamic than idle squares, hounds tooth looks like it’s on the move. It’s a type of twill made by alternating bands of four dark and four light threads in both vertical and horizontal directions. One thread is advanced at each pass to give it its characteristic slant.

Hounds tooth is a 19th-century creation hailing from the Scottish Lowlands, where it was originally worn by sheepherders. It’s also known as shepherd’s check and dogtooth.

Hounds tooth jumped from the fields to upscale fashion in the early 20th century and has since been a go-to pattern. While hounds tooth traditionally has a clubby, highbrow tone, it can also be fresh, bright and youthful.

Scale variety. Just like dogs, hounds tooth comes in all sizes. Patterns can range from oversized to minuscule.

When to go big. Though considered a traditional pattern, large-scale hounds tooth has a more contemporary aesthetic. If the hounds tooth pattern on this blue and cream dining chair upholstery was a tenth of the size, it wouldn’t have nearly the same bite.

Puppytooth. Small-scale hounds tooth is casually referred to as puppytooth. While there’s no dimension threshold separating the two, hounds tooth at this more reserved scale is undeniably classic.

Just be aware that puppytooth may read as a mixture of the two separate colors viewed from afar. So, a black and white puppytooth might appear as gray when you’re not up close.

Some

of the

best ways to use hounds tooth:

Upholstery. Anne DeCocco of DeCocco Design calls this upholstery “poppin’ hounds tooth.” She says she used it because she wanted the chair to be appreciated for its clean, comfortable lines and to bring a hit of fun to the room. “Hounds tooth is a masculine pattern to me — sort of menswear in tone,” she says. “I love that. It’s clean and crisp and brings a nice shape into the space. And it never looks dated.”

Welting options. Something to think about with hound’s tooth upholstery is the welting. Here, DeCocco used a contrasting welt in a solid gold to show off the lines in the classic shape of the chair and coordinating ottoman. “A self-welt would have disappeared,” she says.

In this room there’s a self-welt on the two armchairs. Because a self-welt doesn’t create a high contrast, the eye isn’t as focused on the outlines of the furniture piece where the welting is located. Rather, the surface of the hounds tooth fabric itself comes to the forefront. There’s no right or wrong, but some pieces lend themselves better to a self-welt and others, a contrasting welt.

Pattern size in relation to furniture components. Remember to consider the size of the hounds’ tooth pattern in relationship to the components of your furniture piece. This example shows one full “tooth” pattern expertly centered down the slender, swooping arms. If it were larger and “falling off” the side arm, it would lose its refinement. Elegance is in the details.

Tight and fitted. Hounds tooth looks best when it’s upholstered tightly to the frame, as on this handsome side chair. Likewise, loose cushion designs should have snugly fitting covers.

Too-loose cushion covers, or relaxed slipcovers will distort the hounds tooth pattern in the fabric’s undulations and can make the piece look sloppy and visually unsettling.

Paisley

While paisley may remind you of men’s neckties, kaleidoscopes and psychedelic ’60s garb, it’s actually an ancient Persian pattern. Aside from being truly interesting to look at, paisley ranges from simple to ornate, large to small and bold to subtle, and even bridges multiple generations. Here’s how you can get this uniquely versatile pattern to work in your home.

The term “paisley” originated in the Scottish mill town of Paisley, where fabric produced in the 18th and 19th centuries copied Mughal Indian versions of paisley patterns. However, paisley’s true roots stem from Iran, where it’s known as boteh or buta. The pattern was created about A.D. 224, and its kidney- or tear-shaped design represents stylized vegetal motifs.

Paisley patterns can be simple or complex. First decide whether you would like your paisley to stand out or be mixed in with other design elements.

“Floating island” paisley. The paisley in the wallpaper shown here is simple and straightforward. Each shape is its own entity floating against a solid background.

“All-over” paisley. If the stand-alone paisley pattern is too conspicuous for you, consider a paisley that has other design elements mixed in. This will create an all-over pattern that’s intricate and usually on the formal side, as on the handsome entryway bench shown here.

One of the benefits of this type of paisley pattern is that a number of other colors are often present, from which you can pull additional hues for secondary color schemes and accessories.

Note that these more intricate paisley patterns often have large repeats, so you may need more material, depending on your application.

Unique graphic qualities of paisley. Unlike plaid and other patterns that rely on adjacent elements to create a whole pattern, paisley is selfcontained. Because of this distinction, it can really stand alone and make a statement.

In this Atlanta sitting room, graphic paisley patterns of differing sizes have been strategically painted on the ceiling to create a heads-up focal point.

Large-scale paisley. The paisley pattern is curvaceous and has movement. Because it’s easier on the eye than, say, a geometric-based pattern like a check, it can work on a large scale without being visually paralyzing. This striking Rajapur wallpaper by Cole & Son has a substantial 30-inch (76-centimeter) repeat. It’s framed by architectural molding to offset it from the surrounding woodwork on the wall.

On the smaller side. If you’re not of the mindset that bigger is better, consider a more diminutive paisley, like this tonal paisley linen fabric.

Small-scale patterns tend not to be busy and easily mix with other patterns, especially bolder geometrics.

Textural paisley. Like many other patterns, paisley can be found on printed fabrics as well as heavier woven fabrics suitable for upholstery. One of the benefits of a woven paisley fabric is that it is textural; different surface levels capture the light differently. So, the swirling design adds not only visual but tactile interest. The gold woven paisley fabric on these two sofas is an Italian jacquard.

Printed paisley pattern. Some paisley patterns are printed on top of the fabric. In Indian block printing, which appears to be the method used for the fabric on this ottoman, wood-carved blocks are used to apply the pattern directly onto the fabric by hand. Printed fabric typically has a more casual aesthetic and is commonly used for light- to medium-use furniture, drapery and pillows.

The paisley upholstered on the backs of these chairs is similar to the pattern shown in the child’s quilt in the previous image. However, the neutral tones change the mood to one that’s reserved, elegant and appropriate for this grown-up living room.

Paisley as artwork. Paisley is such a wonderful and enchanting pattern, it can even stand on its own as artwork.

Polka Dots

Spots are hot, and not just for tots

With their fun-loving persona, polka dots are a go-to pattern for decorating nurseries and kids’ spaces. But they’re not just for kiddos. Check out the benefits of using polka dots to create a bright spot in your home.

The term “polka dot” was coined in the mid-19th century amid the polka dance craze. Although it’s a centuries-old pattern used in many cultures, it really took hold in the U.S. in 1928, when Disney introduced Minnie Mouse in her signature red-and-white polka dot dress and hair bow. The cheerful pattern has adorned America’s apparel since the ’30s.

Jude Stewart, writing for Slate, sums up our perception of polka dots today as “optimistic, prosperous, ostensibly prim, but also dizzyingly energetic, the Atomic Age dissolving into particles before our eyes. … What could be a less complicated, less loaded pattern?”

Traditional spaces. Polka dots are a terrific pattern for formal spaces, but their success hinges on scale and color. Smaller polka dots lend themselves to a traditional look, while larger dots are associated with more casual, contemporary spaces. The conservatively sized dots on this fresh green-and-cream ottoman fabric add a punch of color but are in keeping with the classic elegance of the space.

Midcentury modern. Polka dot mania was in full swing from the 1930s to 1960s, and the pattern is a natural for midcentury modern style’s clear, uncluttered, graphic look. This armchair’s polka dot upholstery blends harmoniously with the home’s natural woodwork and the neutral color palette of the other furnishings. The muted hues of the dots also help temper the pattern, so it doesn’t feel childish or cartoonish.

Subtle spots. Though polka dots are inherently bold, a tone-on-tone version is understated and soothing to the eye. This tonal polka dot wall is subtly ethereal.

A great mixer. Polka dots are like cranberry juice: great on their own, but even better when mixed with other ingredients.

In this dining room, intricate trellis wallpaper pairs with dining chairs upholstered in a fetching polka dot print. The circles don’t compete with the lines of the trellis, so the dissimilar elements work together. In general, polka dots mix well with graphic patterns, such as stripes and plaids, as well as sinuous florals.

Pattern density. Polka dots that are close together, even touching, will appear “busier” than those that have more space between them. However, dense dots do create drama, as evident in this hallway.

It’s best to use close-set dots in simpler spaces that don’t have a lot of architectural changes or intricate functions. Otherwise, the pattern will tire out your eyes and everything may look jumbled.

This looser polka dot pattern has more breathing room and reads as more restful than the denser pattern.

Do you like polka dots but aren’t ready to go all-out? Try the pattern on sheets, throw pillows, area rugs or a shower curtain.

Geometric

If your home decorating isn’t adding up, consider angles and shapes to help solve the equation

Though geometric patterns have been used in architectural and interior design for centuries — think ancient Greece and Morocco — you might have noticed they’ve become increasingly popular in modern homes over the past few years. Perhaps it’s their innate ability to add visual interest and texture to any style of home, whether it be eclectic, sleek or contemporary. Geometric patterns can enhance a space, but it’s not uncommon for people to be afraid of clashing. To make the most of the style but prevent yourself from going overboard, let’s take a look at designs by those who’ve done it right.

Christopher Elliott Design used bold shapes and colors to add drama to this bedroom and made the look work with neutral accessories. If you want to go this big, whether via a feature wall or oversize artwork, make the area your focal point, so as not to overwhelm the space.

Geometric patterns are popular for kitchen backsplashes because they are so versatile. They can add interest without the need for color or make a statement with bold hues. In this kitchen a little bit of color was cleverly sprinkled into the pattern, so as to be bold but not too out there.

The theme continues in the living room through soft furnishings. The pattern in the rug, throw and cushions adds warmth to the minimalist design.

Tip: You can mix and match different patterns, but to ensure a cohesive look, stick to coordinating colors in a limited palette — in this case yellow, white and gray, which also tie in with the home’s overall color palette.

See how this rug lifts this space? While it’s certainly one of the focal points in the room, it’s not at all overpowering, thanks to its simple design and two-toned theme.

If your space needs a style update, a geometric rug could be the easy solution. Chevron is one of the most popular graphic prints being used in interior design today, and the contrasting color choices here add impact.

These upholstered chairs nail the chevron print, adding a luxe touch to the contemporary room. You could look for furniture pieces with hard, straight lines in shapes such as hexagons and trapezoids for a subtle nod to the theme, too.

Scared that loud colors and geometric shapes will make you feel stuck in a ’70s time warp? Try a pastel color palette that is less imposing and more calming. Lighter shades used on a larger scale, such as on the walls, will make a room feel light and fresh.

Toile

Engaging, elegant and so very French, there's a toile for more styles than you'd think

Even if you didn’t know its name, you’ve likely seen a toile fabric or wall covering. With monochromatic pictures printed on a light background, a toile pattern often portrays idyllic, exotic or pastoral scenery. If you’ve ever wanted to subtly introduce cows or hot-air balloons into your decor while still keeping it elegant, this is your pattern. Here’s what to know about using toile in your home.

The word “toile” (pronounced “twahl”) as we use it today is actually a bit of a misnomer. “Toile” in French just means “fabric.” Toile de Jouy is the accurate name of this pattern, which was originally printed on fabric in the French town of Jouy. Its name became truncated somewhere along the way.

Toile was created in 1770 with the invention of copper plate engraving, which allowed for its characteristic fine detailing. Beforehand, white fabric was hand painted or printed with clunkier wood blocks. While single-color motifs on white are by far the most common, two-toned and darkbackground toiles do exist.

Toile tells a story. Toile scenes evoke nostalgia and can transport your imagination to another place or time. Toile almost always starts a conversation.

While not all do, most toile patterns show scenes of something going on — a snapshot of some aspect of life. Some popular motifs feature bucolic countryside landscapes complete with farm animals, milkmaids and haymaking, like Barnett’s example shown here. Others may have an exotic focus with Chinese pagodas, umbrellas, tropical flora or idyllic classical allegories. There are some humorous contemporary takes available, too, like sketches of modern-day Brooklyn, New York.

Toile works in surprising settings. While toile is a centuries-old creation, it works as well in contemporary settings as in formal ones. In the modern Seattle home seen here, a midcentury Eames lounge chair is paired with a duo of toile-covered bergères. Certainly, the more graphic black-on-white color choice helps in the blending of eras.

Toile can be the life of the party or soft-spoken. Depending on the particular pattern and color saturation, toile patterns can either be as soft as a whisper or as bold as a stop sign. You need to decide which effect you want to achieve. This bedroom design features a spirited red pheasant toile pattern that is the star of the room.

Meanwhile, the soft rosebud toile on this daybed adds a hint of pattern. Instead of engulfing the space in a busy design, the daintier toile lets the architecture of the bed frame and antique fashion prints overhead come to the forefront.

Toile works in large doses. While not everyone agrees that more is better, toile is unique in that it can work as an all-encompassing pattern.

This bedroom has the same green and white toile fabric upholstered on the towering walls, the window shade, the cushion and the beds’ headboards and footboards. Replicating this look with a stripe, for example, would be completely disorienting. While a prominent pattern, this toile installation still gives off a restful vibe.

And it works in small doses. If the whole-room approach isn’t for you, using toile on a smaller component, like window treatments, is a good alternative. Because a toile pattern is sinuous and doesn’t have a strong directional design like a plaid or check does, it’s flexible in the shapes it can accommodate without the pattern’s becoming lost or distorted.

Toile looks super on simple pinch-pleat drapery panels as well as pieces with more complex shapes, like this relaxed Roman shade designed by LLB Traditional Design. The toile design reads just as well in the intricate folds as on the face of the shade.

Consider your pattern size. Toile patterns tend to be on the larger side, which is why they’re often installed on walls. So before selecting a pattern, consider the room you’re planning to use the toile in and whether it’s appropriate.

The toile in this bedroom has a gargantuan repeat and looks to be about 84 inches in width. Designer Isabelle Formigé-Miller says this pattern was chosen because of the expansiveness of the room. While stunning here, it wouldn’t work in a small powder room.

And if you’d like continuity. If you plan to use toile on multiple pieces next to one another, like window shades or chairs, you may want the patterns to align. This is especially true if the toile has a prominent motif.

These kitchen chairs are a perfect example. The tree-like shape on the backs of all the chairs is in the same location on each piece. To achieve this, you’ll likely need to order more fabric than what you’d need if using a different pattern. Your upholsterer will let you know how much to order depending on the size of your pieces, the fabric width, the repeat and whether you want to highlight a certain section in the motif or not. The additional yardage can sometimes be substantial, so be prepared. It’s imperative to have this discussion with your designer or upholsterer so everyone has the same expectations.

InteriorDesignFundamentals

7 Elements of Interior Design

The problem with Interior Design is that many people confuse it with Interior Decoration. While the former refers to designing an entire living space from scratch, the latter refers to decorating an existent living space with added furniture and upholstery. Interior Design is indeed a science that is bound by its own elements and principles and yes, it is not as simple as one imagines it to be! Generally interior designers go by the rule book that states that ‘There are 7 elements and 7 principles of Interior Design’.

We are going to cover all the 7 elements of interior design.

1. Space

Space is one of the most important elements of interior design. Space acts as a foundation on which the entire interior design plan is built. Hence it is essential that the designer is well aware of the space available, its dimensions and its utilities. Space is divided into two types namely – TwoDimensional Space which covers the floor (includes length and width) and ThreeDimensional Space which forms the living space (includes length, width and height). A space that is essentially filled with furniture/décor items is a Positive Space and an empty space is a Negative Space. An equilibrium has to be maintained between the

positive and negative spaces and either overcrowding or skimping on the furniture/décor items is going to affect this equilibrium.

2.Space Planning

Lines give birth to forms and shapes and are responsible for establishing a sense of harmony, contrast and unity (3 of the 7 principles) in a living space. They define shapes and act as visual guides of an interior space. Lines are broadly categorized into three types – Horizontal, Vertical and Dynamic. While horizontal lines adorn structures likes tables, chairs and beds, vertical lines can be found on windows, doorways and almirahs. While horizontal lines add a safe and secure feeling to the space, vertical lines emote free and expansive nature. Dynamic or angular lines, which are action oriented add drama and can be seen on structures like stairs. An interior designer must know how to utilize these lines to define the forms, another important interior design element.

3. Forms

Forms mean shapes in general, an outline of any three-dimensional object in the space. Forms can be created by combining two or more shapes and can be accentuated with the help of other elements like texture, patterns and colors. A well-defined form establishes harmony and additional forms add balance to the space. There are two types of forms – Geometric (manmade) and Natural (organic). Also, forms are categorized as open and closed; open forms are those that can be looked into and closed forms are those that are enclosed by a closed surface. A solid understanding of the above-mentioned elements i.e. space and line is required to achieve a goof form.

4. Light

Light is one of the most obvious elements of interior design. Either natural or man-made, without light other elements namely color, texture and pattern have no significance at all. Light sets in the mood and ambience into a living space and highlights every other element including space, line and forms. While smart placement of doors and windows should take care of the natural light, man-made or artificial lighting is broadly divided into three major types namely – Task Lighting, Accent Lighting and Mood Lighting. Task light as the name implies, includes light sources like table and bed lamps which have a defined purpose, dedicated for a specific task. Accent lights are meant for highlighting a particular piece or show item like artworks, structures, sculptures and so on. Mood or ambient lighting basically set the mood of the living space and illuminate the overall space.

5. Color

Colors don’t need any special introduction. Colors establish an aesthetic connection between objects and set the mood. Colors must be chosen based on the psychology and the mindset of the dweller. For example, red is an excellent choice for dining room as it encourages appetite and green for bedroom as it is the color of tranquility and health. Each color has three distinct characteristics namely Hue, Value and Intensity, and an interior designer must be well aware of these characteristics to perform various permutations and combinations. Colors are broadly classified into Primary and Secondary colors and also sub-categorized into Tertiary, Complementary, Analogous and Monochromatic colors.

6. Texture

Texture mainly deals with surfaces and determines how a typical surface looks and feels. Texture adds depth and interest into a living space and defines the feel/appearance and consistency of a surface. Texture is broadly classified into two types – Visual Texture where the texture is only visible and Actual Texture where the texture is both seen and felt. Anything that has to do with textiles such as pillow cover, bed spreads or anything to do with covers like drapes, wall paint or wallpapers have a texture. While there must be a dominant texture to define a mood, a contrasting texture must also be included to avoid monotony.

Colors

7. Pattern

Patterns add interest and life to interior design and work along with colors. Patterns tell a story of their own and add the elements of continuity and smooth transition in a living space. Patterns could be of any shape and mostly comprise of attractive and repetitive designs. Paisley, a design pattern which takes the shape of a droplet-shaped vegetable is one of the most commonly used patterns on wall paints, pillow covers and other decorative surfaces.

Textures