Pattern Play, Pets & Portals

This month, it’s all about transformation. Whether you're redesigning your home after the nest empties, leveling up your pattern-mixing game, or making pet-friendly spaces feel just as stylish, I’ve got you covered. Let’s make your space a reflection of your story—bold, beautiful, and unapologetically you.

Ever look around your home and wonder what’s next? Becoming an empty nester is a big transition, and your space deserves to evolve with you. As an interior designer, I know how exciting (and a little daunting) it can be to reclaim your home and reimagine it for this new chapter. Whether it’s turning those extra rooms into something special, upgrading your well-loved furniture, or creating spaces that reflect who you are now, my latest blog, “Redesigning Your Home After the Nest Empties: Tips for Creating a Space That Fits Your New Life”, is full of inspiration and practical tips. Let’s transform your house into a sanctuary that’s all about you! 

Have you ever thought about the simple act of walking from one room to another? It might not seem like much, but with the right touch, that little moment can completely change the experience of your home. Enter door portals, one of my favorite details right now.

I’ve been loving the way materials like marble, stone, tile, or beautifully grained wood can wrap a doorway and make it feel like so much more than just a pass-through. Imagine stepping from your kitchen into your dining room, and the portal is framed in sleek stone or warm, natural wood. It sets the tone, creates a sense of anticipation, and somehow makes the journey feel...special. Suddenly, you’re not just moving from one room to another, you’re having a moment.

It’s the kind of thoughtful detail that might not scream for attention, but it elevates everything around it. For me, it’s proof that the little things, when done right, make the biggest difference.

Now every time I pass through one of these, I catch myself thinking, Why didn’t I do this sooner?

Mixing patterns, or as I like to call it, the art of controlled chaos is one of those things people either love or hate. Pattern play is  a design move that separates the bold from the basic, and when done right, it's pure magic. It can add richness, energy, and personality to a room. But when it’s off, it can feel chaotic and overwhelming. The good news? There’s a method to the madness, and I’m here to share my favorite tricks for getting it just right.

1. Create Visual Flow: Your space should tell a story, not give someone a headache. Pair that audacious leopard print with a subtle herringbone, and watch how the eye dances across the room. It's all about creating a rhythm that feels intentional, not accidental.
   

2. Color is Key: Wild patterns are fun, as long as you pick a color palette and stick to it like it's the last design trend on earth. 3ish colors is your magic number. For example, a bold navy floral, a striped rug with touches of cream, and a gold-accented throw can all work together beautifully. When the colors sync, the patterns will too.
   

3. Play with scale: Not every pattern needs to scream for attention. Mix larger, statement patterns with smaller, quieter ones. A dramatic damask wallpaper pairs perfectly with subtle plaid curtains or a fine chevron throw. This variation creates layers and keeps the space feeling polished rather than chaotic.

Mixing patterns is all about experimenting and finding the right balance. Start small, trust your gut, and don't be afraid to break a rule or two. After all, the best interiors start with a little rebellion and a lot of imagination.