The details you’ll obsess over

How to survive a home renovation and not die trying. In this edition of The Design Edit, our monthly newsletter, you’re in for a treat with our expert tips on curating a designer space full of all the details that matter. 

We all dream of a home that looks like it came straight out of a magazine, but let’s face it - we don’t all have the luxury of high-end budgets. What if I told you that transforming your space into a high-end haven doesn’t always mean spending a fortune?! The reality is, even with a decent budget, redesigning your home can quickly become overwhelming and pricey if you’re not careful. That’s why I’m excited to share my latest blog, where I reveal how you can achieve a sophisticated and unique look without breaking the bank. Discover six expert tips for curating your space with affordable finds from HomeGoods, ensuring your home remains stylish and elegant while keeping costs in check. Ready to create a space you’ll love coming home to? Dive into “6 Expert Tips from an Interior Designer: How to Curate Your Space on a HomeGoods Budget” and learn how to make every dollar count!

Real talk… It's the details that truly define a space and set it apart. Think about a time when you’ve walked into a friend’s home and you’re blown away how all the little things add up and make an impact; it all comes back to the details. From repeating lines and patterns throughout a space, to weaving a common color room-to-room, all the way down to the plate design you have on your table… It all matters when you want to create a cohesive look to make a statement. Refining your home with meticulous attention to those often-overlooked elements is key to creating an environment that feels both intentional and uniquely yours. It’s not just about choosing trendy items; it’s about how you use them to craft a space that feels curated and personal. Here are 7 easy ways to curate the details and elevate your home:

• Pay attention to finishes. If a finish is too shiny or the gold tone is too yellow… guess what? It’s going to look cheap! Swap that for gold tones that look more like natural brass. This will instantly elevate your accessories. 

• Mix and match. Just because they sell a matching pair of the same candlesticks doesn’t mean you should buy it. Mixing a collection of varied sizes and shapes creates a more unique look that feels designed rather than store-bought. Mixing different textures and finishes can add depth and intrigue to a room, allowing your space to tell a story. 

• Look for throw pillows with feather inserts. Fluffy pillows over stiff pillows will always get my vote! Whether you go for something that’s down or down-alternative, this will create a more cozy lived-in environment over any polyester insert. 

• Always add hardback books. There’s something about a beautiful book spine sitting on a table or shelf that adds some warmth, color and “designer touch” to your space. Not only do they serve as eye-catching pieces, but they also provide insight into your personality and interests.

• An unexpected accent piece. I’m a firm believer that one tacky thing has the ability to become cool when it’s surrounded by curated pieces. So, if you see a funky sculpture or bowl you like, don’t be afraid to get it. Just don’t overdo it. I recently bought a giant ceramic bowl of two hands because it was over-the-top tacky but overscaled which made it cool to me. It’s going to make a statement for sure! This unexpected addition can introduce personality and playfulness to your space, making it uniquely yours. Afterall, you want people to leave your home talking about it, right?? 

• Skip the chrome vases and sculptures. No one needs these. Opt for black or white instead. These classic colors provide a clean and sophisticated aesthetic that is far more versatile. Black and white items serve as perfect neutral bases, allowing other colors and textures in your decor to shine

• Bigger is usually better. When faced with 2 size options, always go with the bigger one. Scale is something good designers know how to get right. Larger items make a larger statement, where a lot of little items just look like your grandma’s knick knacks.

Let me save you years of Interior Design school: the secret to a beautifully curated home lies in the art of the mix. Your ability to blend elements to create a space that feels truly lived-in and uniquely yours. So, how do you achieve that effortlessly collected feel in your own home? Here are some insider tips to help you master the art of layering and curating your space to perfection:

• Unique pieces. Not your average accessory…maybe it’s a classic design but done in an extra large over-scaled way. Or maybe something that makes a bold statement. The key is to think outside the box and embrace items that reflect your personality, even if they’re unconventional. Remember just because you haven’t seen it before doesn’t mean it’s not uniquely cool! 

• Curated art. I’m talking about art that feels like it’s been curated right out of vintage markets. When it comes to art, it’s not just about filling walls; it’s about curating a visual narrative that resonates with your soul. Consider pairing your collection with unexpected backdrops like bold wall colors or textured surfaces to amplify their impact.

• Lots of Layers. Rugs, drapery, pillows, throws… all the soft things are what add the finishing touches to your space. Mix different materials and patterns to add depth and interest, and don’t be afraid to layer them for a cozier, more inviting feel. Changing textiles seasonally or simply swapping them out on a whim can refresh a room instantly, keeping your environment dynamic and ever-evolving. 

• Statement lighting, whether we’re talking lamps, chandeliers or sconces… spice it up with something that’s a bit edgier. Opt for pieces that are not only practical but also artistic and eye-catching. The right lighting can highlight architectural features, create focal points, and add drama or subtlety as needed.