New Year, New Design Rules to Break

Ready to reimagine your space in 2025? In this edition of The Design Edit, we’re breaking free from design conventions and making bold moves. Discover the rebellious guide to interior design, dive into Pantone’s rich and cozy Color of the Year, and learn how to perfect your room’s layout like a pro. Let’s make this the year your home truly reflects you.

Ever feel like your home is almost there but missing that spark? As an interior designer who loves shaking things up, I’m diving into the "rules" of design that might be holding you back. If you’re ready to ditch the cookie-cutter approach and create a space that’s unapologetically you, my latest blog is a must-read. Check out The Rule-Breaker’s Guide to Interior Design and discover how to design fearlessly, authentically, and beautifully. Let’s make your home unforgettable!

As we step into 2025, it’s time to welcome a new hue that perfectly balances comfort and luxury: Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse. This color brings to mind your favorite cozy café moment—rich, grounding, and effortlessly chic. Think of it as the design equivalent of a perfect coffee, offering a warmth that feels both soothing and sophisticated.

Here’s how you can invite the indulgence of Mocha Mousse into your space:

• Foundation of Sophistication: Whether you use it on your walls or as a statement piece of furniture, Mocha Mousse creates a timeless, neutral backdrop. It’s the perfect foundation for any room, offering a sense of calm and refinement that can anchor your space in understated elegance.

• Mix & Match: This versatile shade pairs beautifully with soft blushes, deep forest greens, and muted yellows. Layer these hues together to create a space that feels rich in depth, with an unexpected but harmonious combination that adds personality without overwhelming the senses.

• Textures & Layers: Mocha Mousse thrives in a layered environment. Pair it with luxurious velvets, soft leathers, or natural woven materials to enhance its depth. These textures bring an element of tactile warmth, turning your space into a sanctuary that invites relaxation and comfort.

• Cozy Retreats: Small spaces, like a reading nook or powder room, are the perfect places to go bold with Mocha Mousse. Use this shade to transform these intimate corners into luxurious getaways that feel personal and indulgent—your own private escape within your home.

Mocha Mousse isn’t just a color; it’s an invitation to embrace a design philosophy that’s thoughtful, luxurious, and deeply personal. Let it inspire you to create a space that’s as inviting as it is stylish, setting the tone for a beautifully designed year ahead!

The new year is here, and with it comes a sense of renewal — a time to refresh, rethink, and revitalize. Just like you might set intentions or goals for the year ahead, your space deserves the same treatment. A room layout is like a personal roadmap: when it’s thoughtfully planned, it leads you to a space where you feel calm, inspired, and truly at home. And just as a new year brings opportunity for change, your room’s layout can evolve, adapt, and grow with you.

Here’s how you can design a layout that will serve you well through the year ahead:

• Start with a Purpose: Just like setting intentions for the year, know your room’s purpose. Whether it’s a sanctuary for relaxation, a hub for family gatherings, or a quiet space for work, having a clear intention ensures every piece has its place and every corner serves a purpose.

• Find Your Room’s New Year’s Resolution: Every room has a standout feature—whether it’s art, a piece of furniture, or a stunning view. Think of this as your room’s "resolution," the element that drives the layout. Arrange your furniture to highlight this focal point, and everything will feel intentional.

• Flow Like a Fresh Start: A good layout should feel effortless, just like a new beginning. Leave 2-3 feet between furniture pieces to allow free movement, creating a flow that makes the room feel connected and inviting.

• Scale it Right: Treat the scale of your furniture like your goals for the year—get the right size for the space. In smaller rooms, choose compact pieces, and in larger rooms, opt for statement pieces that fill the space without overwhelming it. The right scale makes the room functional and stylish.

• Create Defined Zones: In open layouts, use furniture, rugs, and lighting to carve out zones for different activities—relaxing, working, or entertaining. This helps each area feel purposeful and distinct.

• Light It Up for the Year Ahead: Lighting sets the tone, just like your goals for the year. Arrange your furniture to take advantage of natural light and complement it with task and ambient lighting to highlight the room’s best features. The right lighting makes the space brighter and more inviting.

Finally, keep evolving! Just as the new year is a time to reflect and adjust, your room’s layout should be flexible. Don’t hesitate to experiment with new configurations or add fresh pieces as the months go on. A great layout isn’t static; it grows with you, adapting to your changing needs and new inspirations throughout the year.