Accent Walls: The Best Way to Add Depth to Your Design

Adding an accent wall can drastically elevate the design style in a space. Because it is just a single wall, it can be the easiest way to direct focus, create depth, and even take an "outside of the box" risk. Check out my favorite five accent wall ideas you can do!

1. Paint

This is by far the simplest and most cost effective. I am a huge fan of using highly saturated colors to create a statement when painting an accent wall. Challenge yourself to a bolder color and if you hate it, it's easy to change!

An accent wall doesn’t have to be those vertical spaces. Don’t forget about that fifth wall, the ceiling. By painting this kitchen’s ceiling, we were able to draw the eye all the way to the beautifully barrel vaulted feature.

I love how just the navy wall of this kid’s bedroom painted creates depth and allows lighter objects to pop.

2. Molding

Putting molding walls got a bad reputation when so many builders decided to put a single piece of molding around the room called a chair rail (literally one of my least favorite things). However, molding on a wall can look super sophisticated. From the traditional picture frame molding to the more contemporary box molding. 

A staircase can be a forgotten space which is why it is the perfect place to add molding to really punch up the design.

Taking a traditional molding and turning it into something special with this square geometric designed wall using molding.

3. Wallpaper

Yes, wallpaper is still in, in fact, it never left. I have used wallpaper in no less then 100% of my recent projects and with the endless possibilities of patterns and styles wallpaper can work for everyone. It really does make me overly excited. 

Sometimes just one wall is all you need for wallpaper. This creates the perfect layer for this grandmillennial office space.

The perfect teen girl’s wallpaper. It's bold and beautiful and it only needed on the feature wall.

4. Tile

I love a tile accent wall! I use them frequently in bathrooms, bars, and even in bedrooms and other spaces. There are some really amazing tiles that will wow you and create huge impacts in a home. 

Having fun with a wall of accent tile in a bathroom can bring so much style to your home.

An accent wall tile doesn’t have to mean the entire wall. In this design, we decided to only do it in the nook behind the bar. It helps draw the eye in and layers in the sex appeal.

Using tile that starts in a shower and continues beyond the normal boundaries makes this small bathroom feel grand. Use this to trick your eye and make your tighter spaces truly expand.

5. Wood

I tend to lean more towards the modern use of wood as an accent wall, but for clients who love that "farmhouse" style, you can also use reclaimed wood. 

Wood used in a more contemporary fashion to define this TV wall. This decorative wall with evenly spaced wooden slats for a sleek and contemporary look.

For this covered outdoor design, we wanted to add texture with a shou sugi ban accent wall. Shou sugi ban is a traditional Japanese method of preserving and weatherproofing wood by charring it with fire. The charred surface is then brushed and oiled to create a durable and attractive finish.

6. Living Wall

Creating a living wall as an accent is a unique and beautiful way to bring nature into your home. The result is a stunning and sustainable accent wall that adds life and color to any space.

Bringing Mid Century Modern Style into Your Home

With the popularity of the Mid Century Modern many people want to add elements into their homes. I personally love taking elements from different styles and showing them off throughout designs.

Mid-century modern furniture is a style of furniture that originated in the mid-20th century, roughly between the 1930s and 1960s. This style of furniture is known for its clean lines, organic shapes, and sleek, minimalist design. Mid-century modern furniture was influenced by the Bauhaus and De Stijl art movements, which emphasized function and simplicity in design.

One of the most notable characteristics of mid-century modern furniture is its focus on form over function. This means that the design of the furniture is just as important, if not more important, than its practicality. Mid-century modern furniture often features bold, geometric shapes and bold, solid colors. An easy way to bring this into your home is through the use of wallpaper and tile.

The use of natural materials such as wood, leather, and wool is also common in mid-century modern furniture.

Mid-century modern furniture is highly sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts alike. Its clean lines and timeless aesthetic make it a versatile choice for any space. Whether you are looking to furnish your entire home with mid-century modern pieces or just add a few key pieces to your existing decor, this style of furniture is a great way to add a touch of sophistication and elegance to your space.

Some of the most iconic mid-century modern furniture pieces include the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman, designed by Charles and Ray Eames, and the Tulip Chair, designed by Eero Saarinen. These pieces are known for their elegant, sculptural forms and their use of innovative materials and manufacturing techniques.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, mid-century modern furniture is also known for its durability and longevity. Many pieces of mid-century modern furniture are still in use today, decades after they were first designed. This is due in part to the high-quality materials and construction used in their manufacture, as well as the timelessness of their designs. My advise is to save for quality pieces that will stand the test of time rather than cheaper imitations that you will not get to enjoy very long.

If you are interested in incorporating mid-century modern furniture into your home, there are many ways to do so. You can find authentic mid-century modern pieces at vintage shops, online marketplaces, and auctions. Alternatively, you can purchase new furniture that is inspired by the mid-century modern style. No matter what approach you take, adding some mid-century modern pieces to your home is a great way to add a touch of sophistication and elegance to your space.

How to Create the Perfect Ralph Lauren Inspired Nursery

Creating a baby's room with a Ralph Lauren-inspired design is a beautiful and timeless way to welcome a new addition to your family. Combining classic elegance with a touch of whimsy, a Ralph Lauren-style nursery is both stylish & practical.

When it comes to color, Ralph Lauren's signature palette is a perfect starting point. Soft shades of blue and green, paired with neutral tones, create a serene and soothing atmosphere. Punch it up with red accents and your room is ready to shine. If you're not sure where to start, consider using one of Ralph Lauren's classic bedding collections, such as the "Lullaby" or "Sweet Dreams" collections, as the basis for your color scheme.

In terms of furniture, choose pieces that are both functional and stylish. A crib is the centerpiece of any baby's room, and a classic white crib with elegant detailing, such as the "Princess" crib from the Ralph Lauren Baby collection, is a perfect choice. Complement the crib with a matching dresser and changing table, and add a cozy rocking chair for those late-night feedings.

When it comes to decor, mix and match patterns and textures to create a layered and inviting look. A plush white rug, such as the "Bear" rug from the Ralph Lauren Baby collection, provides a soft and comfortable place for baby to play. Or even a blue rug with a global inspired motif. Add throw pillows, blankets, and wall hangings in coordinating colors and patterns to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Don't forget the finishing touches! A mobile featuring classic Ralph Lauren motifs, such as horses or polo players, adds a playful and whimsical touch. A soft and cuddly stuffed animal, such as the "Bear" from the Ralph Lauren Baby collection, provides comfort and companionship. And a collection of classic children's books, arranged on a bookshelf or in a basket, completes the look and encourages a love of reading.

With a little effort, you can create a beautiful and timeless Ralph Lauren-style nursery that is both practical and stylish. Your baby will love spending time in this peaceful and inviting space, and you will enjoy the classic elegance and sophistication of the Ralph Lauren design aesthetic.

Steps to Creating the Perfect Work From Home Office Space

Creating the perfect home office space can be a challenge, especially if you have limited space or are working with a tight budget. But with a little creativity and some careful planning, you can create a functional and stylish home office that will inspire you to be productive and efficient.

First, consider the size and layout of your space. If you have a dedicated room for your home office, you may have more flexibility in terms of layout and design. But even if you only have a small corner of a room to work with, you can still create a functional and comfortable space.

Next, think about the tasks and activities you will be doing in your home office. Do you need a large desk for your computer and other office equipment, or will a smaller workspace be sufficient? Do you need storage for files and documents, or can you keep them digitally? Consider what you will need in your home office and plan accordingly.

Once you have a clear idea of the layout and functionality of your space, it's time to think about design. Choose a color scheme that is both calming and energizing, and incorporate colors and patterns that will inspire you and boost your mood. Add personal touches, such as family photos or artwork, to make your home office feel like your own.

When it comes to furniture, choose pieces that are both functional and stylish. A comfortable and supportive chair is essential, as you will be spending a lot of time sitting. A desk with plenty of workspace and storage is also important, as is lighting that is both functional and ambient.

Finally, consider incorporating plants and other natural elements into your home office design. Not only do plants add a touch of life and color to your space, but they can also improve air quality and reduce stress.

By following these simple tips, you can create the perfect home office space that is both functional and stylish. With a little effort, you can create a space that will inspire you to be productive and efficient, and that you will enjoy spending time in.

10 Ways to Add Color to Your Home

Adding color to your home can be important for a variety of reasons. Color can affect our mood and emotions, so choosing the right colors for your home can help create a warm and inviting space that makes you feel happy and comfortable. In addition, using color in your home can also be a great way to express your personal style and add visual interest to a space. Adding color can also be a practical way to help define different areas or zones in an open floor plan, making a space feel more cohesive and functional. Here are 10 easy ways to add color into your home design.

TEN: Add colorful throw pillows or blankets to your living room or bedroom

NINE: Hang colorful artwork on your walls

EIGHT: Use colorful rugs to define spaces and add pops of color

SEVEN: Add plants with colorful leaves or flowers to bring life and color to your space

SIX: Use colorful dinnerware and glassware to add a pop of color to your dining table

FIVE: Incorporate colorful accents, such as vases or lamps, into your decor

FOUR: Paint one wall in a bold, vibrant color as a focal point

THREE: Use colorful window treatments, such as curtains or blinds, to add color to your windows

TWO: Add colorful furniture, such as a brightly colored sofa or armchair

ONE: Use colorful wallpaper to add pops of color and style to a room.