The livable luxe home

Are you ready to create a hotel-inspired sanctuary at home? In this edition of The Design Edit, our monthly newsletter, we cover the basics of turning your home into your unique story! Plus, get some unique ideas for your Thanksgiving table centerpiece.

Ever walked into a beautiful hotel suite and thought, "Why can’t my home feel like this?" While we may not have round-the-clock service or a housekeeping team, there are plenty of ways to bring that luxury feel into our everyday spaces—without the stress or sky-high budget. Imagine sinking into soft, high-thread-count sheets, enjoying spa-like touches in your bathroom, or returning home to an entryway that makes you feel as welcome as the lobby of a five-star resort. In this article, “Transform Your Home into a Luxury Retreat: 8 Five-Star Design Tips”, I share 8 ways you can create a stylish, A with details that make life feel special, cozy, and uniquely yours. 

There’s an interesting thing happening in the interior design world lately… and it’s a more authentic and even playful approach to how we live! It’s about celebrating uniqueness,  embracing those odd things you find, and creating spaces that let the quirks come out. It’s not about copying what’s seen in your instagram feed to create cookie-cutter designs in your homes. It’s about designing livable homes that feel like you, livable luxe, as I like to call it. 

During my consultations, I find more and more clients declaring their desire for homes that tell a story, feel inviting and spaces that reflect real lives instead of those uncomfortable showrooms filled with pristine, untouchable decor. The focus is on creating inviting environments that can handle the chaos of daily life, showcasing the quirks and experiences of those who inhabit them.

So, how can you join the fun and bring this trend to life in your home? Ditch the idea of a space that seems perfect for everybody! Instead, build your idea of perfection. Think about functionality and beauty in your own terms. Want to redo your kitchen? Go for it, but this time think twice about the things you need: maybe it’s a spice cabinet, or a coffee bar, or an appliance garage for your daily protein smoothie. And when it comes to furniture, choose things that practically beg you to kick back and relax, and decorate with items that add warmth and character to your space. You can still obtain a liveable luxe environment that looks beautiful, functions perfectly for you, and tells your story. 

And the next time you find yourself scrolling and wishing for someone else’s house, remember: the design and the picture are often worlds apart. Staging a space for a photograph is a delicate art, and if you're constantly trying to maintain that perfect shot in daily life, you might find yourself feeling disappointed. Your home is meant to be lived in, not just photographed!

Are you tired of furniture that feels disposable? You’re not alone! There’s a growing shift toward pieces that have meaning and staying power. Instead of settling for something that’s “good enough for now,” people are starting to hold out for quality items that evolve with you and reflect your values. It’s kind of like an art collection; it is all about choosing life-lasting, timeless pieces. 

While it’s ok to layer in a few pieces seasonally that rotate out once you’re over them, when it comes to your staple pieces I recommend investing in something that is higher quality. I always say it’s about mixing highs and lows in design, and your main pieces should be the higher quality, artisan made pieces. Choose items that add real character and that you’ll want to keep through every stage of life. Look for these things:

• Solid Wood is Gold: When selecting furniture, opt for solid hardwoods like oak, maple, or cherry. These woods are not only denser and more durable but also develop a gorgeous patina over the years. Say goodbye to flimsy particleboard!

• Choose High-Quality Fabrics: For upholstered pieces, natural fibers like cotton, linen, and wool are your best friends. They’re breathable and generally wear better than synthetics. If you have a busy household, look for performance fabrics that resist stains and fading while still feeling luxurious.

• Look for Quality Joinery: Take a peek at how the furniture is put together. Dovetail or mortise-and-tenon joints are signs of strong craftsmanship, while simple nails or screws may indicate a less durable piece. Quality craftsmanship makes all the difference!

• Inspect Finishing Touches: A well-made piece will have smooth edges and even surfaces. Keep an eye out for any rough spots or uneven finishes—these can be red flags about the overall quality.

• Prioritize Sustainability: Research brands that emphasize sustainable practices, using reclaimed materials or eco-friendly production methods. Certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) ensure responsible sourcing, so you can feel good about your choices.

• Support Ethical Labor: Opt for companies that promote fair wages and safe working conditions for their artisans. Many brands proudly share their ethical commitments online, making it easier for you to shop responsibly.