How to Decorate

Podcast, Ep. 222: stylist & author Melissa Penfold

Abbey Nolte — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 10:30:58 +0000

Stylist & Author Melissa Penfold.

We are joined today by our first Australian guest ever! Melissa Penfold is Australia’s foremost authority on style and design, a bestselling author, columnist, editor, and journalist. She calls her book Living Well by Design the ultimate decorating book. Melissa talks about keeping design simple, functional, and uniquely you. We also discuss a lot of pointers from her book to help you create a style that makes you happy.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What was Melissa’s process and selection for creating her book?
Why Melissa doesn’t think design is “hard”.
How to play up your home’s strengths.
How to differentiate your house especially in a subdivision.
What are Melissa’s g0-to design elements?
How to shop for quality no matter your budget.
Why having a variety of textures is so important.
It’s important to use every room in your house; and make them all your happy place!
How does design in Australia differ from design in the US?

Decorating Dilemma

Hello!

I’ve been catching up on all my episodes and recently listened to Cheryl Luckett’s episode- a risky move as now I’m planning my own Project 36. On that note, I have a dilemma with what to do on the sliding glass doors and window in my kitchen and eat in area.

I moved out of an apartment and into a townhouse last summer in Boston’s Southie neighborhood. I’ll include some of the electric blue “before” listing photos to illustrate what we’ve done so far (laying hardwoods, skim coating the popcorn ceiling, and painting everything neutral). We are preparing to kick off a kitchen renovation in 2 weeks and will be putting in white cabinets with polished nickel hardware and marble subway tile backsplash.

In the eating area, we currently have a white tulip table and chairs from our old apartment as well as a tan banquette (I call it the kitchen couch) that I scored brand new on Facebook Marketplace for $50. The banquette blends very closely with the wall color, so I was thinking I may drape a small colorful blanket over the back to add some interest for cheap. I am also on the hunt for a secondhand stained wood oval or rectangular table that is larger than the white one so that we can seat 6 in this area when my sisters come over. The white Ikea cabinet is nice to have, but I am open to moving it elsewhere since the items in the cabinet will be stored in the kitchen post-renovation. We are also going to hang a cute flowery light fixture over the table where the can light is currently (I’ll attach a picture) and put crown molding around the room.

My question is how I should handle the sliding glass doors. You can see in the photos that our deck area backs up to other houses, so privacy is a concern or else I would probably have nothing on the window. There also is not enough space on the right-hand side of the door to have curtains on both sides. I was thinking about doing a faux roman over the kitchen sink and using the blind that is on there now for function. Should I have curtains on the sliders in a matching fabric pulled all the way to the left? Should they coordinate but not match? What kind of pattern or color would you suggest? Is there a better way to get some privacy on the sliders?

Also, I’d love any other ideas on how to spice up the eating area in general. Painting could be fun, but there isn’t really a natural point to stop the paint before it comes into the hallway.

Help! And thank you

Emily

Hi Emily,

What would make the biggest difference of all is to open up the entire back as one large door ceiling to floor. I’m not sure if that’s in your budget, but it would make it fabulous! However, if you want to stick with what you’ve got you can correct the window and sliding door by getting rid of the vertical blinds and hanging new curtains from the ceiling. Hang them on the left on a metal rod and use fabric the same color as the walls; it doesn’t have to be expensive but use it in abundance. Go wider than the window and do a proper Roman shade instead of faux. I like the floors and the tulip table, but I would lose the tablecloth and put the chairs around the table in a pair. I would also keep the banquet and the Ikea cabinet. If you want to change the paint just carry it through the whole space. It’s a lovely color, but you could go slightly warmer with less grey and more beige. I would also change the handle on the sliding glass door to something more modern. A very large, rectangular rug in that space would also anchor the whole area.

One thing I would do outside is get two large potted trees just outside that door; maybe orange or olive trees. You could even grow something along that fenceline–jasmine smells lovely and grows like wild!

Good luck, Emily! You’re 90% there. Please send us photos when you’re done!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in iTunes so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone.

Happy Decorating!

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Podcast, Ep. 221: designer Lilse McKenna

Abbey Nolte — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 18:13:47 +0000

Photo: Victor Harshbarger. Designer Lilse McKenna

Our guest today is interior designer Lilse McKenna. Before starting her own firm, she worked with designers Markham Roberts and Lindsey Coral Harper and drew inspiration from their styles. She has since had her work featured in House Beautiful, The Wallstreet Journal, Real Simple, and more. Her signature style is rooted in tradition yet layered with colors, textures, and patterns. We talk about how she uses layers, where she searches for killer fabrics, her best budget buys, and more!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Why Lilse wants your interior to make you “think”.
How did Lilse get started?
What Lilse loves about fabrics.
Tips for the pattern people and non-pattern people.
What are Lilse’s rules for sconces, wall art… and mattress heights?
Lilse’s thoughts on the “Grandmillennial” style.
Are vertical line patterns in wallpaper a new trend?
Where does Lilse like to save vs. splurge on items?

Decorating Dilemma

Hi ladies!

I recently discovered your podcast and am OBSESSED. I started at the beginning and am currently on episode 18, cataloging all kinds of great ideas for my new build, which is scheduled to be completed in July. Thank you for providing a fun escape from the stress of homebuilding, plus amazing ideas for home decor!

My dilemma is this: the new house has a full guest bath on the main level, toward the front of the house. The shower/tub WILL be used, so I need to install a curtain of some kind. However, I don’t want it to scream “bathroom!” 5/19/because it will be visible when someone walks down the foyer and into the rest of the house (see attached floor plan). I would like the bath overall to be fun and immersive yet elegant. I’ve attached a screen shot (hopefully you can see it well enough?) of my mood board, with my selections of tile, cabinet, lighting, and mirror. Yes, that’s a Ballard wallpaper. What would you recommend to keep the shower and curtain from becoming the main focal point? Color? Fabric? Length? The ceilings are 10 feet, and there is a transom window above the shower.

Lastly, here are a few links to bathrooms with curtains that have vibes that could work for me:

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/492159065536771677/ (completely hides the shower/tub)
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/492159065536806362/ (I think I like the floor-to-ceiling look, but I wouldn’t want bathroom curtains to go all the way to the floor)
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/492159065536771687/ (I probably can’t pull this off because I have a shower and therefore can’t hang pictures, etc. in the shower area. I just like how integrated the tub feels)

I appreciate any pontificating you’d like to do on the subject.

Thank you!!

Melissa in North Carolina

Hi Melissa,

I like the Pinterest example you showed with the custom shower curtain that was especially long, hung close to the ceiling, and almost to the floor. You may have to custom make it, but I would get an ivory linen with a narrow contrast banding on all 4 sides that pulls from the colors of the wallpaper. This will make sort of a fabric wall and make it look less “bathroomy”. You could even have the shower curtain made with pinch pleats or grommets to make it look more like a curtain.

Good luck! We are very invested in your shower curtain so show us after photos!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Happy Decorating!

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Holiday 2021 Paint Colors

Mallory Thomas — Thu, 30 Sep 2021 20:11:09 +0000

As the weather cools and we spend more time hunkered indoors, your wall colors need to feel fresh and inviting. From deep blues to calming neutrals, our 2021 holiday paint colors are easy to love all season long.

Please be aware that color may vary due to various light conditions, finish and other factors. It’s always a great idea to test a paint sample on your wall first.

West Coast #1671 Benjamin Moore

This saturated shade never fails to add drama and dimension to a space. In this room, we paired cool blues with warm terra cotta tones. Because blue and orange sit across from each other on the color wheel, sprinkling them in a room together creates instant complementary color magic.

Cumulus Cloud #1550 Benjamin Moore

Timeless, elegant, and classic. This neutral color goes with everything, but is anything but boring. In this Scandinavian-inspired room, the wall color acts as a beautiful blank canvas for a pop of pink, clean white woods, and metallic accents.

Palisades Park #439 Benjamin Moore

If traditional holiday colors aren’t your thing, this green is merry and bright without feeling stuffy. Plus, it mixes perfectly with any type of wood tone. Green is also a great choice to make your room feel fresh and lively during the colder months. Why not bring the outdoors in?

Tapestry Beige #975 Benjamin Moore

A warm beige that just feels cozy. In this room, we used tons of natural textures, earth tones, and comfy fabrics to keep things light and livable.

Find our best tips on choosing paint colors or browse paint colors from past catalogs. To stay up to date with all things How to Decorate, sign up for our monthly newsletter.

Did you like this post and find it helpful? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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Podcast, Ep. 220: designer Charlotte Lucas

Abbey Nolte — Tue, 28 Sep 2021 12:41:51 +0000

Designer Charlotte Lucas

We are beyond thrilled to welcome our guest today, Charlotte Lucas, of Charlotte Lucas Interior Design based in Charlotte, North Carolina! Since starting her business in 2012 she has been featured in ELLE DECOR, Southern Living, Veranda, House Beautiful, and more. Charlotte also has an incredible fabric and wallpaper line called House of Harris. We talk about Charlotte’s love of color and patterns, how she balances funky and traditional, using layers, and more!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Trials & Triumphs with nursery completion, organizing kid clothes, basement flooding, house updates, and caretaker insight.
Charlotte’s approach to choosing bold upholstery choices.
How Charlotte helps her clients visualize their spaces with artist renderings.
What is Charlotte’s process for getting to know the client and their tastes?
When, where, and how does Charlotte use a contrast wall?
How does Charlotte balance traditional and daring styles?
More about Charlotte’s fabric & wallpaper line House of Harris.
Charlotte leans towards funky MCM pieces, but mixes them in with other styles.
Charlotte loves using layers and telling a story in a space.
What are Charlotte’s g0-to accessories and where do her clients usually struggle?
What unusual pieces does Charlotte like to put on bookshelves?
What is Charlotte’s approach to gallery walls?
Important questions about designing Taryn’s door!

Decorating Dilemma

Need some ideas to bring more warmth, texture, and subtle color for a beach home.

Thank you!

Sheree

Hi Sheree,

We just did this for a client! A beach house is all about embracing where you are. So this is a place to restrain from color, as hard as it is, and go for texture, layers, and warmth. I like to do this with materials like caning, bamboo, rattan, and anything woven. There are so many vintage dealers both in local coastal outlets and online for wonderful pieces like this. I would definitely keep the furniture neutral but maybe add soft color with a lamp/lampshade or other accessory; your pillows would be a great place to add some. You could even paint one of those woven pieces. Try to grab color inspiration from your natural, outdoor surroundings (i.e. sky, sunset, sands, plants, etc) at different times of day. Another great thing for a beach house is grasscloth wallpaper. It’s not terribly expensive and it provides incredible texture; there are a lot of brands out there. You could even do it in the back of the bookshelves! We think your rug is too small, so think you should either size up or layer it with another bigger rug. With an open floor plan, it is important to create defined and separate spaces. Light fixtures in the kitchen or dining area could definitely help accomplish this.

You already have a great base, so no drastic suggestions! You can message me on Instagram at @charlottelucas if you have more questions or want to send me after photos!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Happy Decorating!

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Podcast, Ep. 219: designer Janie Molster

Abbey Nolte — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 11:00:25 +0000

Designer Janie Molster

We are so thrilled to welcome back our guest today, Janie Molster, who you may have heard on episode 117. She is an interior designer from Richmond, Virginia known for decorating spaces with exuberant color and a masterful mix of antique and contemporary pieces. Since we last spoke to her in 2019, she has written a book called House Dressing: Interiors for Colorful Living. Today we chat about her signature color usage, antiques, the importance of balance, and designing your house for TODAY and not waiting for someday!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Trials & Triumphs with gallery walls and wires, soft washing a 90 year old house, getting rid of bats, new windows and doors, finding the perfect nursery rug, and doggies ruining the perfect nursery rug.
Janie’s philosophy is to make homes glamorous yet durable.
Balance is the key!
What are Janie’s rules when it comes to window treatments?
How does Janie do pink so well?
How to still have fun and be bold with neutral colors.
What are Janie’s tips to shop for antiques?
What antique piece is Janie currently in love with?
Janie’s design philosophy on ceilings and floors.

Decorating Dilemma

Dear Ladies,

I love your podcast and learn something new in every episode. Your guests are fascinating, and I really love the way you help listeners resolve their design dilemmas. I have one that I think is quite common–how to put together an interesting neutral room.

We recently moved into a home that, while traditional on the outside, has a very open floor plan. My husband and I are retired, and we enjoy the abundant light and spaciousness of the interiors. However, we are beginning to realize that there are design challenges with so many sight lines from room to room. I have been searching for months for just the right fabrics for my traditional family room sofa and pair of club chairs, which we plan to have reupholstered. My go-to formula has always been to do the sofa in a “flat” neutral and use contrasting, more textured colors for the pair of chairs.

Now I would like to break out and do something different–I really don’t want another pair of contrasting blue chairs! The rug in the room is a heavily textured custom wool. The adjacent dining room has walls in Farrow and Ball Pigeon and a geometric sisal rug. We plan to add two large chinoiserie framed prints to the dining room walls for additional color. We will use oushak rugs in the foyer and runners in the kitchen for more color and texture.

There will be two other chairs in the family room. The gray wing chair in the corner near the fireplace will eventually be replaced with a bergere-style chair and ottoman in a large print that will add a fun pop of color and design to this neutral room. This chair and ottoman will be visible as you walk in the front door, so we prefer to find the foyer rug first and then select this fabric. There is also a small occasional chair with a rounded cane back. Once rugs and bergere fabrics are selected, we will finish with more color and texture on the sofa pillows. I’m not too worried about finding these elements, but before I do anything, I want to resolve what to do with the sofa and club chairs.

My initial thought was to skirt the sofa and use a linen-look cream performance fabric on it, perhaps with a contrast band on the skirt. But every textured neutral I find for the chairs still doesn’t seem to give enough contrast. It either looks too much like the sofa, the rug, or is a geometric pattern which I consider too busy, especially with what I have in the adjoining dining room. Should I stay with my plan of having both a cream sofa AND a pair of cream textured chairs or do you have other suggestions? I am beginning to wonder if the problem is the neutral rug! Without color on the floor, is this primarily neutral game plan just too boring? Because of the texture of the rug, layering a smaller patterned rug over it would not be my preference.

Lately I have been wondering about the performance velvets–I could do the sofa in a taupe or warm gray velvet and use a cream welt. That would give me neutral with a bit more contrast and might open more options for the chairs.

I have also thought about doing the performance linen on the chairs instead and having the upholsterer piece a wide stripe down the center of the back and seat cushions in another colorway of the same performance linen. But then, I’m back to finding something with enough texture difference for the sofa. We have young grandchildren, so I believe it is important to use performance fabrics. But I feel like the performance fabrics I see are not highly textured or interesting. They just look too “”bland”” together because they are all similar in texture unless I use one of the few tone-on-tone geometric or herringbone patterns. I would consider using a durable non-performance fabric on the chairs if I can have them treated.

Neutral rooms seem like they should be easy, but they are NOT!

A few other notes: We plan to replace the slipcovered dining room chairs with modern chippendale style chairs in a glazed cream finish, so those beige slipcovers are going away–another reason that I prefer to avoid a geometric pattern in the family room.

It would be so much fun for me to hear how you would apply your creative skills to this dilemma!

Kristie

Hi Kristie,

I love where you’re going with the performance fabrics! To your point about patterns, I’m with you and think you should stick with a solid color. They have come a long way. If it were me, I would definitely consider going slightly darker on your sofa and in a warm taupe or gray to ground your room. Overall for your space go for warmth. On that back wall, I would do some sheer curtains (you can hear my rant earlier in the episode about curtains!). Then I would consider a console table for the back of that sofa. I can tell you’re drawn to a quieter mix of materials, so for patterns I would focus on pillows and lampshades. You could add something like an upholstered bench for when you have guests over and you could potentially add some pattern there. I would not get hung up on adding pattern to the pair of chairs; I would go with performance linen white. Art, like you said, is a great way to add color! Lastly, with the spaciousness of your room I think you can size up on your coffee table. Your furniture is rather spread out so I would consider pulling it in to make it more convivial. Don’t create a “time out” space for your guests!

In your dining room, the chandelier is great. But it could also really use some beautiful and bold curtains! I would also consider painting the walls all the same color. If you’re nervous about patterned curtains, you could use the same color as the paint for warmth. And the colors from the rooms should speak to each other. Then I would put something fabulous that lives in the center of your dining table. It doesn’t have to literally be “alive” as it could be a collection of vases, sculpture, etc.

You have such a great space with wonderful lighting. We love it and can’t wait to see what you do!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Janie Molster Designs
Janie Molster Designs on Instagram
House Dressing also available at Target, Amazon, Barnes & Noble
HTD Episode 117
Chairish
1stDibs

Happy Decorating!

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Podcast, Ep. 218: Dutch Interiors with Barbara de Vries

Abbey Nolte — Tue, 14 Sep 2021 15:23:27 +0000

Our guest today, Barbara de Vries, has a most impressive and varied background as a creative. Her prolific career includes launching CK at Calvin Klein, working on projects for Ralph Lauren and Pantone, creating her own fashion line, and co-founding her own publishing and media company. She also worked as a model and an environmental activist. Today we talk to Barbara about her new book, Coming Home: Modern Rustic, Creative Living in Dutch Interiors.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Barbara’s adventurous career path.
How Barbara’s Dutch lineage has inspired her philosophy and style.
The difference between using the old and the new in the US vs. Europe.
How the work from home movement is evolving our spaces.
Cultural differences make a big difference in kitchen size and design.
Why we all can benefit from using more daily conservation efforts.
A Decorating Dilemma about the power of well adjusted drapes.
What can we learn about Dutch Interior Design to take into our own homes?
Barbara was a model and an environmental activist?

Decorating Dilemma

So we moved into this great house this summer. While not a completely open concept floorplan, from the living room, you easily see the kitchen, dining room and front hall. The prior owners painted each room a different color…and the ceilings different colors from the walls in the kitchen and LR.

Overall, the palette is complimentary, but not sure if it’s quite my taste. I’ve lived in it for a while to see how I feel about it. I’ve decided that I like the LR wall color, but not the ceiling. Also, not crazy about the DR wall/ceiling color.

The LR gets some good natural light first thing in the morning, but after about 11 it gets a bit shaded. The walls are a shade of red that’s somewhere between terracotta and berry. The ceiling us closer to salmon colored. I like the wall color it makes the room cozy and us a little more fun than white. I’m not a fan of the ceiling color. It’s okay in natural light, but with regular lighting in the evening is too pink or maybe just too noticeable.

But how do I pick a new ceiling color!? Should it be the same color of the kitchen ceiling to give it continuity? (I don’t want a million colors, but also not sure if the kitchen ceiling color works). And I’m not sure how to pick a DR color that won’t jar with the rest of the open floor plan (current color is too yellow/brown). Also – I’m not sure if this rises to the level of a decorating dilemma, but I suspect other listeners have this question and maybe you can discuss in future designer interviews…

Dining. Room. Rugs.

So lovely but the one tried it, it just got disgusting! I love how they look in a DR because DRs tend to be a little sparse than other rooms.. Between kids and large family holiday gatherings, spaghetti sauce, pot roast, red wine…everything ends up on the floor, lol. I’m not really interested I’m Ruggables…and I think an indoor/outdoor rug might look weird?

Any ideas? Do people do this or is it just for photos on IG?

Thanks,

Caoilte

I must say I have never seen a house with all the ceiling painted before and I understand that not being your style. Ideally, you would paint all over everything. If your budget doesn’t allow it, though, then I would advise painting the ceilings white. Your house would immediately come much lighter and bright. Going room by room, I would buy 2 paintings and a mirror for the dining to the wall to the left of your window. I wouldn’t worry about a rug because the light reflects beautifully on the natural wood floor. Drapes could also make it look cozier in there. I would get large vases and keep fresh flowers in there. I would also paint the wall below the staircase and the hallway ceiling white. I would live with the terracotta in your living room and maybe add some pieces that reflect that color. If there isn’t a rug in there, I would get a rug that picks up on those colors. And if you don’t want to paint, maybe try tile underneath the cabinets.

If all the suggestions are too much work, I would definitely start with the white ceilings, white dining room, and white panel on the stairs. It’s a great, sunny space! We would love to see the after photos!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Happy Decorating!

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Podcast, Ep. 217: designer Philip Mitchell

Abbey Nolte — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 11:00:53 +0000

Photo: Annie Schlechter. Designer Philip Mitchell

We are so excited to welcome back one of our favorite guests, Philip Mitchell, of Philip Mitchell Designs to the show! He is a Toronto and New York based designer with a full service firm. He has been featured in House Beautiful, Better Homes & Gardens, House & Home, Veranda, Architectural Digest, and more. His upcoming book, Collected Interiors: Rooms That Tell a Story, is available for pre-order now. We talk about Philip’s love of storytelling, finding joy in the unexpected, a commitment to loving your space, and ART!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Discussing Philip’s new book and his belief that a house should tell a story.
Philip’s two questions he asks all clients.
What are some exercises we can do to edit our own design ideas?
How Philip breathes new life into old pieces.
Philip’s philosophy and approach to art.
Why Philip thinks loving a piece is more important than style or investment value.
Philip loves unconventional places to display art.
When does Phillip like to place lighting on art?

Decorating Dilemma

Hi ladies,

I love the podcast and am currently working my way through the archives. Not only is it helpful but so entertaining.

I need major help with this room. We moved in a year ago as a rental but are currently in the process of buying it. My style is California coastal minimalist. We are very casual; I hate clutter and I’m not afraid of some negative space. But I like large scale art and color too. It faces north so the lighting is very tricky. We are currently planning a kitchen renovation so the budget for this room is minimal. Also, I have 3 young kids so the furniture stays and the window treatments are custom by the previous owner so they also stay. Sadly, the ceiling fans are also nonnegotiable because we live in a tropical climate.

My plans are:

Move the two chairs to another room and buy a pair of accent chairs
Move the large abstract art to the entry way, put something square there
Get a third white shelf and then center them and style them
Get better looking ceiling fans
Maybe an upholstered ottoman

My questions are:

1.) Paint- I tested a series of colors in the light blue, light green family and they look terrible in this lighting. I’m down to White dove, simply white and edge comb grey (all Benjamin Moore) but is the room going to be too boring if it is white? What other colors would work in a very long northern room?

2.) I’m on team Taryn when it comes to family photos but the gallery wall at the back doesn’t seem to make enough of an impact. We don’t have a dining room; this is the dining area. I have always loved Grey Malin’s large scale aerial photography and think a triptych would look amazing there. But if I have actual tropical views, can I also have photography of tropical type views? What else could I put there?

3.) Are the lamps large enough? How do I add more lighting?

4.) Any recommendations for an ottoman than is large enough for the space

Thanks!

Sarah

Hi Sarah,

Your space and your view are extraordinary! These are all great questions. For me the number one thing regarding the paint is that Northern rooms are tricky. It looks as though you are in a very tropical location. I would tend to go very neutral, use one of the whites you have, because then it will not fight with all of the colors that will change throughout the day with the light. Regarding the shelves, I agree with all of your suggestions. I love the idea of doing a new pair of chairs. I would also add a third chair by the fireplace. I love the family gallery wall, but I would move it to where you have that contemporary piece of art. Then you can move that piece to the “gallery” wall. Just swap them! It’ll be a great focal point. I know you are on a budget, so I would find similar fabric drapery panels to match what you already have on some of those bare windows. I don’t feel that your lamps are too small, but I would probably move the side table with the lamp over to the sofa backing to the dining room. Then I would look into adding another small side table where we are taking that one away. Then possibly a floor lamp there and over by the small chair next to the fireplace. Instead of having a giant ottoman in that big floor space, how about more than one thing? Maybe a rectangular ottoman (forget the tray…it always falls with kids!), round table, and square table. It will add some flexibility and practicality with a room that the family uses often. Let’s also toss some color in here with pillows, drapery, or other accents.

We are so jealous of your view and think buying this place was the RIGHT move! Thank you so much for listening and please send us some after photos!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Happy Decorating!

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How to Pick the Best Mattress

Abbey Nolte — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 16:03:58 +0000

For the ultimate night’s sleep, you need the ultimate luxury mattress. With so many different options to choose from, deciding on the best mattress can be overwhelming. Many factors go into picking the perfect spot to sleep for you and your family. Do you prefer soft or firm? How much support do you need? Do you get hot when you sleep? Hybrid mattress vs. memory foam? When it comes to making your decision, don’t sweat. We’re breaking down each mattress from our new collection to help you get your best sleep yet.

1. Pick Your Mattress

Plush

If you enjoy a soft mattress that you can sink into, then our Haven Plush Euro Top is for you. This hybrid mattress features a plush euro top for ultra-softness and deep sleep comfort, combining the finest materials and craftsmanship with the latest in proven sleep technology.

Key Features:

Extra springy and resilient, 100% New Zealand wool creates a gentle sleeping surface that holds its loft over time and wicks away moisture.
Cashmere wool is extra fine, wonderfully soft and thermoregulating, helping to maintain your ideal body temperature throughout the night.
Natural Talalay latex gently lifts your body, conforms to your unique shape and distributes weight evenly.
The 896 plush 3-zone pocketed spring unit boasts 15-gauge springs for conforming support and ideal comfort throughout the entire mattress.

Firm

If you need firm support, but yearn for contouring flexibility, our Adora Firm Tight Top is the mattress of your dreams. Each layer is designed to provide the next level of sleep-inducing comfort, all supported by a pocketed 3-zone spring system.

Key Features:

High-density comfort and support creates a firm sleeping surface and provides plenty of support.
The perfect blend of silk, wool and cashmere in the quilted top keeps you comfortable, cool and dry.
Plush CertiPUR-US certified quilting foam includes gel which provides additional pressure relief and more airflow throughout the mattress.

Comfort

We went in search of our dream foam mattress and found it in the Ella Tranquil Comfort Top. The 2-inch tranquil foam top relieves pressure on critical areas of the body to prevent tossing and turning, while also reducing motion transfer for an uninterrupted night’s sleep. Tranquil foam also helps your body heat dissipate quickly, keeping you cool and comfortable.

Key Features:

1-inch layer of high-density foam creates a firm sleeping surface, providing more support than standard foam.
Dense foam core virtually eliminates partner disturbance while providing long-lasting support.
1.5″ high base foam ensures excellent edge support and deep-down comfort.

2. Try a Topper

If you’re not ready to pull the trigger on a mattress just yet, you can always opt for a topper. Adding a topper on top of your current mattress adds an extra layer of comfort just where you need it. Toppers also help to prolong the life of your mattress, acting as a barrier to the daily wear and tear your mattress receives.

Our Adora Topper is an easy solution for anyone who needs firm support while they sleep. If you’re simply looking to add another layer of softness and comfort to your bed, then you can’t go wrong with our Haven Topper.

3. Don’t Forget Your Foundation

Take your nighttime comfort to the next dreamy level with a luxurious and supportive bed foundation. Choose from 3 different profiles: slim, low and high to custom fit your bed and personal sleeping style.

Slim – If you have a thick mattress or a tall bed frame, opting for a slim foundation will offer the support you need without making your bed too high and difficult to get in and out of.
Low – If your bed is designed to be low to the ground, use a low foundation to keep that sleek/modern look.
High – If your bed is lower to the ground and you want to add some height, a high foundation will help you achieve that balanced look.

4. Add the Finishing Touches

Once you have your mattress setup figured out, you’ll need to add the finishing touches with down pillows and a dreamy duvet. Down essentials are the key to a great night’s sleep because they’re not too heavy and not too light. Don’t forget to complete the look with beautiful covers and shams to reflect your personality and style.

Browse our collection of mattresses and bedding. For more bedroom inspiration, read these helpful posts below:

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Podcast, Ep. 216: designer Ashley Whittaker

Abbey Nolte — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 11:00:44 +0000

Designer and Author Ashley Whittaker

We loved our first episode with Designer Ashley Whittaker so much that we are thrilled to have her back this week to talk about her new book, The Well-Love House: Creating Homes with Color, Comfort, and Drama. Ashley talks about her love of natural and durable materials and how we can have an indestructible yet elegant home. She shares tips on adding some beautiful pieces to keep things fresh and happy, how to tell if your furniture is talking to each other and what’s going to make a room feel inviting vs. off-limits. Ashley also shares some stories behind the photos in her beautiful book and a few client success stories that we can learn from in undertaking our own design adventures.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Ashley’s goal of “set it and forget it” when it comes to designing well-loved homes.
The ingredients of a comfortable family room and how to still add elegance and beauty.
Examples of natural fabric and textures that can take some wear and tear but still hold up beautifully.
How to know when you have the right furniture plan.
Why Ashley recommends starting the design process with the walls.
If your walls aren’t finished, your house does not feel finished.
A few of the homes featured in Ashley’s book include a Connecticut estate, a chic Manhattan home and a beach home, along with a fun special story about each client.
How to make rooms not feel so seasonal so they can flow from season to season.
When it comes to styles like midcentury, a little goes a long way.
Ashley’s imaginative use of lampshades, and how we can use lamps and lighting to create beauty in our well-loved home.

Decorating Dilemma

Hi ladies!

Thanks for helping me with my exterior colors (the advice of using Charleston green with black and white on my red brick home). We followed the advice and love our home. I have another dilemma that I’d love your help with.

Our dining room is in the middle of our home, it’s a room we pass through to get to other rooms. So, deciding what “walls” make up the dining room has been a bit tricky. I want to lighten up and elevate the space with some texture wallpaper. I am considering Ballard Designs Harlow Textured Wallpaper in blue.

This angle I am standing from the front door so this is what you would see walking through the house.

Questions –

Following the “”flow of the room from the front door”” rule, this means the wallpaper should wrap under the arches, correct?
The arches are different because we expanded, and it would be labor and cost intensive to make them match (the non-arched way used to have patio doors). I also think adding any molding will draw more attention to the differences. Is there a way to make them look better or is this not a big deal?
Standing from the other side of the dining room, you can see the hallway (that is currently white). I don’t want to wallpaper the hallway, is it ok to leave this white?

Open to other ideas and thoughts. I just really don’t know where to start and stop. A friend mentioned painting all the walls white to match and doing an accent wall, but I am not fond of accent walls since 2010.

Thank you for your time!

Diana

We admit this is a little bit of a challenge to wallpaper a room like this. If you were to paper, it may be more than just this one room and you will have to figure out where your wallpaper ends. Also, there’s not a ton of walls in this room so you may not get the biggest bang for your buck. How can you get an even bigger and better wow factor? Well, maybe you could paper the ceiling or even add textured grasscloth. Painting the ceiling a sky blue may be able to work in a beautiful reflective way. As for the wall color, I would get a more creamy or modern white. That would be a great contrast with the sky blue.

Thank you for writing, and good luck!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Happy Decorating!

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Podcast, Ep. 215: designer Kimberley Seldon

Abbey Nolte — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 17:14:32 +0000

Designer Kimberley Seldon

Our guest today, Kimberley Seldon, does a little bit of everything in the design space. She’s a designer, TV show host, business coach for interior designers, keynote speaker, and a podcast host. Kimberley takes us through the evolution of her journey in the design world, her “3-legged stool” approach, tips for the business of design, and more. We also take a Decorating Dilemma where we discuss the importance of being clear on your vision before you go into any big project.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Trials & Triumphs in construction, landscaping, keeping a tidy house, and working from home.
How Kimberley went from the TV world to the design world to the business coach world.
What is Kimberley’s client process?
How Kimberley turned her speaking engagements into a brand.
Business lessons that Kimberley has learned.
Kimberley believes in staying mostly in a style without doing a “theme”.
What is Kimberley’s 80/20 rule?
What is Kimberley’s approach to mixing woods?

Decorating Dilemma

Hello ladies!

I have learned so much from listening to your podcast while we have been renovating our home. My husband & I have spent the last few months renovating a 1930 American Foursquare farmhouse. We have restored the original hardwood floors and all the original trim work is in place. It’s gorgeous. The floors & trim are fir.

Now, for my dilemma. Drapery. I have listened to all the podcasts & done all the reading I can on drapery and my question remains. How do I show off the beautiful woodwork without breaking a design rule? We don’t need the drapery for privacy, but I would like it to finish the space and soften noise. I have included a close up of the trim work & also a view of our living room/reception hall. There is one window facing west in the living room & one facing East in the reception hall. We will be watching movies & entertaining in the space. I would also love your thoughts on furniture as we don’t have any.

I’m ready to execute anything you tell me! Thank you for the fantastic podcast & I appreciate all the design help you have given me.

-Kat

Hi Kat,

Here’s my opinion…even though I’m not sure you’re going to like it! Because the windows are narrow, I wouldn’t draw attention to it by setting the drapery outside the frame. I think the house needs it, maybe in a beautiful pattern, but I think they should fall exactly as they should. You could do an outside mount, soft Roman shade with the draperies floor-t0-ceiling on top of those, but you could absolutely skip this to save money and just go with the drapery.

In terms of furniture, you want it to support the function you want the room to accomplish. Since we aren’t sure of that from your email, our rule is to use the largest furniture possible to make the room cozy and functional. And be sure to consider flexible seating for visitors if you plan to entertain often. I always approach with a plan of, “What do I want this room to do?” Keeping in mind how you actually live.

We think you need to really come up with a vision for the house! Pick a paint color last to highlight the rugs, drapery, etc. In other words, don’t pick the lipstick before you pick the outfit!

Good luck, Kat!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Happy Decorating!

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The post Podcast, Ep. 215: designer Kimberley Seldon appeared first on How to Decorate.