NOT SURE WHERE TO START? THAT’S WHAT WE’RE HERE FOR.
Step into a world of elegance and innovation with our flooring inspiration blog. Delve into captivating articles, expert tips, and awe-inspiring visuals, and explore new floor trends from timeless hardwood to mesmerizing tiles. Elevate your home with limitless possibilities!
LISA KOOISTRA
Lisa Kooistra Design
Lisa Kooistra is the creative director and principal designer for Lisa Kooistra Design. This multidisciplinary soughtafter Greater Toronto Area design firm has become known for creating exceptional, well-curated interiors and custom builds.
lkdesigns.ca @lisakooistradesigns
DIANA ROSE
Diana Rose Design
dianarose.design @dianarosedesign
For Diana Balanyuk, head designer of Diana Rose Design, enhancing home interiors is a journey of self-discovery, expression, and storytelling. Her love of traveling, architecture, culture, and color led her to interior design. Alongside her husband, Diana established Diana Rose Design, which is known for luxurious interior designs that have an approachable, signature style that blends both modern and transitional aesthetics.
AMANDA SHIELDS
Amanda Shields Interiors
Amanda Shields is the creative director and principal designer for Amanda Shields Interiors. Her design firm is known for creating stylish and approachable family-focused interiors.
amandashieldsinteriors.com
@amandashieldsinteriors
KATE O’HARA
Martha O’Hara Interiors
oharainteriors.com
@ohara_interiors
Kate O’Hara is the CEO and creative director of Martha O’Hara Interiors, a full-service interior design firm that designs and furnishes homes from inspiration to flawless outcome. With studios in Austin, Texas, and Minneapolis, Minnesota, Martha O’Hara Interiors has earned a reputation for classically beautiful spaces that feel refreshingly balanced and styled.
“Have nothing in your home that you don’t know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.”
—William MorrisAs the seasons change and the wind nips at the door, we find ourselves seeking solace and warmth within the walls of our homes. It is there that we have the power to create an environment that cradles us in comfort, nurturing our souls. During the colder months, coziness takes center stage. We invite you to immerse yourself in the allure of cozy home design, where beauty and function intertwine seamlessly.
In this issue of Beautiful Design Made Simple, we embark on a journey through the enchanting landscapes of fall and winter, exploring how to infuse your interiors with warm color palettes and a sense of tranquility. We delve into how to make your home a cozy, safe haven, touching on home design tips such as achieving the perfect ambient lighting in your living room and designing a luxury bedroom.
Dive into a world of moody drama with professional designer Diana Rose as she reveals the secrets behind creating a dramatic focal point and designing feature walls. Explore Lisa Kooistra’s latest project—a home that’s the epitome of coziness—and discover priceless insights on how to turn a house into a sanctuary. Plus, join Martha O’Hara as she takes you behind the scenes of designing a home that exudes comfort in every detail.
And, of course, we can’t forget about what pulls it all together: flooring! Our style quiz offers an exciting opportunity to discover the 2024 trends that resonate with your personal taste, and our feature on winter white carpets dives into the world of soft surfaces, giving you tips on how to incorporate white flooring to reflect warmth and coziness in your welcoming retreat.
Welcome to the Fall/Winter issue of Beautiful Design Made Simple by Carpet One Floor & Home.
Warm regards,
1. Satulight Glass Solitaire Pendant Light
2. Williams-Sonoma Solid Cashmere Throw Blanket
3. Red Patterned Carpet by Carpet One Floor & Home
4. Burke Decor Strawberry Fields Red/Ivory Wall Art
5. West Elm Hastings Table Lamp
6. Anthropologie Voluspa Japonica Santiago Huckleberry Glass Jar Candle
7. Crate & Barrel Sculpt Velvet Accent Chair
8. Vivify Bordeaux by Daltile available at Carpet One Floor & Home
1st Dibs Tung JA3 Burgundy Red Side Table by John Astbury for &Tradition
Dark Finish Handscraped Birch Hardwood by Carpet One Floor & Home
As the crisp air envelops us, we’re inspired by all things soft and cozy, like the timeless allure of wrapping ourselves in a cable-knit sweater. At the core, this is a reminder to slow down and savor the present moment. Cable-knit sweaters embody the art of craftsmanship, reflecting the dedication and skill required to create something beautiful and enduring. Just as each stitch is meticulously woven, so too can we approach our own lives with intention and care, valuing the quality of our experiences over the fleeting nature of time.
RUSTIQUEAF-275
YELLOWOXIDE2154-10
STONEHARBOR2111-50
WENGEAF-180
WARMEDCOGNACAF-235
Browse styles from the comfort of home, pick your favorite options, and we’ll send up to six samples right to your door.
Get started today at carpetone.com
When it comes to creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your living room, the right ambient lighting can make all the difference. Whether you’re spending a quiet evening at home or enjoying a rainy day indoors, having the perfect lighting can promote comfort and relaxation in your space. Here are some valuable tips on how to achieve cozy, ambient lighting in your living room.
Because living rooms often serve as the catch-all room for your activities, it’s crucial to have adequate lighting to meet your household’s diverse needs. Lighting serves a functional purpose and significantly contributes to your overall interior design. It is important to understand which types of lighting work best for your living room’s decor, your lifestyle, and your desired aesthetic. There are three main types of lighting: task lights, accent lights, and ambient lights.
Recessed lights, overhead lights, reading lamps, and more can be used as task lights, offering abundant illumination whenever needed. Task lights enhance functionality for game nights, crafting, home workouts, cleaning, and any other activities you wish to undertake in this versatile space. With ample task lighting, you can optimize your productivity and enjoyment in the living room.
Design by MARGARITA BRAVO Photography by TAHVORY BUNTINGWhen it’s time to wind down and relax, you’ll want to switch off or dim the big lights and allow your accent lighting to work its magic. Accent lights don’t significantly affect a room’s overall brightness but rather bring attention to specific objects, fixtures, or art. These include track lights, backlights, spotlights, or picture lights to highlight unique features in your living room, adding a touch of drama and interest.
Design by TRISHA ISABEY Photography by TREVOR COOPERIf your aim is to create a cozy atmosphere, ambient lighting is the key to achieving a soothing space. This form of lighting provides a gentle and encompassing warmth that permeates your living room. It can be accomplished through various sources such as the warm glow of a fireplace, the soft flicker of candles, the comforting light from table lamps or floor lamps, the subtle radiance of wall sconces, or the captivating presence of a chandelier or pendant light. Ambient lighting creates an inviting atmosphere that promotes relaxation and comfort in your living room.
The color and brightness of your lights can significantly affect the ambiance of your living room. Instead of opting for cool-toned lights that may feel harsh and too bright, choose warmcolored lights that create a calming environment. Consider using bright lights for activities such as reading and dim lights for setting the right mood during movie nights or when entertaining guests. To have maximum control over your lighting, consider installing a dimmer switch.
Focal points such as artwork, architectural features, or furniture can be highlighted with strategic accent lighting. Backlighting wall art or adding lights to your bookshelf can create a dramatic and moody effect. If you want the light itself to be a focal point, consider a tasteful chandelier or geometric pendant light. When you draw attention to your focal points, all your hard work creating the perfect interior design falls into place, maximizing visual interest.
Although artificial lighting is essential, don’t forget to leverage the beauty of natural lighting in your living room. During evenings, soft streetlights filtering through your shades or the dreamy glow of moonlight in rural areas can contribute to the overall ambiance. Take note of how natural light affects your living room, and adjust your ambient lighting accordingly. If you prefer to minimize natural light, consider using window treatments that suit your desired atmosphere.
Think about how your choice of flooring can complement the incoming natural light and open up your space. Opt for bright flooring materials, such as lightcolored hardwood or pale-hued tiles, to maximize the impact of natural light. Light flooring solutions help bounce sunlight around the room, lending a sense of openness to create a spacious living room. By embracing the power of natural lighting, you can transform your living room into a warm sanctuary where light and design harmoniously unite.
Think about how your choice of flooring
Although it’s tempting to illuminate every nook and cranny of your living room, it’s crucial to strike the right balance. Excessive lighting can create an overly bright and overstimulating environment. Instead, strive for a harmonious balance among functionality, design, and ambiance. Pay attention to the specific needs of your living space, and choose lighting fixtures and intensity that complement the overall atmosphere you want to achieve. With a well-balanced lighting scheme, you can enjoy your living room anytime and for any purpose! se!
Nothing beats sinking into a plush comforter and silky sheets, especially after a long day of work and play. We spend so much of our time in the bedroom—you might be surprised to learn that we spend onethird of our lives in this room sleeping. So why not design a space that blends opulence and serenity to create a comforting ambiance? Learn from the design experts as we explore these top-six luxury designer bedrooms.
Kicking it off with boutique hotel style, infuse your own style into your bedroom design. Whether your design tastes err on the side of traditional or you’re looking to incorporate a contemporary look into your bedroom, be sure to curate details that match your style preferences. Take a nod from designer Louis Duncan-He with a bold accent wall, chic statement lighting, and matching nightstands. Committing to an eclectic art-deco style or even a monochromatic look can elevate your space, giving it a boutique hotel feel. Use crisp white linens, plush carpeting, fluffy white comforters, and soft shades of creams and ivories to easily pull together a polished, airy look.
If you’re looking to design a space that caters to your homebody qualities, consider a cozy bedroom design. To achieve this relaxed style, start by selecting the perfect soft carpet or cozy area rug to sink your feet into each morning. Then look to your bedding—don’t be afraid to splurge on high thread count sheets, plush duvets, and decorative pillows. Opt for soft materials and warm decorative elements, like designer Laura Hay does here with an earthy color palette and wood tones to create a cozy, comfortable bedroom you will be eager to come home to.
If you love self-care and wellness trends, you’ll appreciate this tranquil bedroom design by Knight Varga Interiors. Recreate this serene look in your bedroom by incorporating elements of relaxation into your design, such as a comfortable seating area, cozy reading nook, or fireplace. This design emphasizes decluttered spaces using soft color palettes and organized storage solutions. Soft lighting and electronicfree zones tied with natural elements, such as the white oak flooring, achieve a peaceful ambiance.
Design by MICHELLE BERWICK
Bring a moody vibe to your bedroom like designer Michelle Berwick does in her design with a touch of soft pastels, jewel tones, and romantic accents. Explore luxurious materials like silk, velvet, cashmere, and exotic woods that add richness and texture to the space. Consider adding a patterned area rug under the foot of the bed for added color and comfort. Indulge in jewel-toned walls, velvet upholstery, velvet curtains, and drapes paired with complementary textures like satin to complete a velvet-toned suite.
Looking to impress with a touch of glam in the bedroom? Explore the role of accessories, such as luxurious rugs, ornate mirrors, and carefully curated collections, to elevate the overall aesthetic. Take inspiration from Jennifer Backstein’s glamorous bedroom design, and invest in sweeping headboards, gorgeous vanities, and plush ottomans with a touch of vintage charm. Emphasize architectural features, such as vaulted ceilings, custom moldings, and statement windows, to contribute to the overall luxurious ambiance.
Design by MICHELLE BERWICK Photography by MIKE CHAJECKI
For those who prefer a simple, clean design, create a warm minimalist bedroom, like Michelle Berwick’s bedroom refresh. When taking a minimalist approach, consider spatial planning, layout, and the importance of natural light. Keep the bedroom clutter-free by using storage solutions like bins, baskets, or under-bed storage to hide nonessentials. Remove unnecessary items and furniture that may create visual noise, and emphasize straight lines with simple patterned area rugs and clean hardwood floors to promote a sense of calm in your bedroom.
QWhat were the needs of your clients, and how did you consider them when designing this space?
A
These clients wanted us to work with the existing footprint of the home but completely update all the spaces with new paint, furniture, and decor. The idea was to create a timeless approach and keep many of the main pieces neutral but then add warmth throughout the decor that could be easily switched out.
A
QHow do you approach designing a home that’s both cozy and functional enough to meet a family’s needs?
Creating a functional and well-designed home is the most important first step for me. Once we have created a cohesive design for the home, we can start selecting finishes and items that have a certain warmth while mixing in different fabrics and textures. Layering and adding helps achieve this overall look and feeling of coziness within your home interiors.
Q A
We love the dark hardwood floor that’s installed throughout the house. What made you opt for a dark floor in this home?
Often, I use wood flooring, and in this project, the floors were already in this home. We ended up keeping them because they added character and another layer of warmth from the wood tones. In keeping with the dark floors, we added a warm white to the walls and mixed dark and light furniture, while the flooring grounded each room.
Q A
There are so many colors and textures at play in the living room, and they all tie together so beautifully. How do you balance color and texture using fabrics, furniture, and flooring?
It’s important to make sure everything is balanced. If there is a darker sofa, then allowing the area rug to have interest and be in a lighter tone will help offset the dark floors. Having a dark, neutral sofa also allows us to add color and pattern with different textures of pillows and decor. We plan each area in the design phase to make sure we have a consistent overall balance of color, texture, and pattern.
For warmth, ensure you have layers of different lighting sources, such as overhead lighting or table lamps. Q A
The light fixtures installed throughout this home are so unique. Tell us how you choose different light sources to create ambient lighting in a space.
There are certain areas in a home where using direct light is important, especially for working environments. Many of these spaces allowed us to use more ambient lighting. This helped create that cozy environment throughout. Selecting the right lighting is important, and each space can thrive in its own way with different light sources and color tones. Each light fixture was selected specifically for the clients’ needs and to achieve that overall cozy approach.
QThe custom runner on the stairs is extraordinary. What made you decide to install this?
AWe wanted to bring the warmth of the existing stairs to life. We found there to be a beautiful richness to this tone and wanted something to pop when you opened the door. Creating this statement added so much warmth, impact, and uniqueness to the space. An entrance should have as much impact as a powder room—it shows off your style!
QThe bedroom is such a plush, cushy space. What are the essential elements you consider when designing a cozy bedroom?
AIn bedrooms, you want to create a sense of calm. I like designing bedrooms with elements of softness that reflect you and instill a sense of tranquility. It is a private space that should be unique to you and feels like a personal retreat. The main function of this space is to sleep, and design elements like the bed should be at the forefront. Quality bedding and year-round seasonal layering elements like pillows, throw blankets, and duvets bring in visual impact and comfort, plus they can help maintain the right temperature for sleeping. An upholstered bed also adds an element of warmth with the caveat of layering the right pillows, bedding, coverlet, and a seasonal throw. Another area of plushness to consider is the area rug, which adds warmth and coziness. Drapery is an important element in a bedroom because it not only contributes to coziness but buffers sound. In this bedroom space, we wanted it to add warmth but also add to the neutral layering of other fabrics.
QHow did you incorporate neutral colors into the design of this home, and what effect do you think they have on the overall ambiance of the space?
AWe chose a warm paint color throughout in a creamy white. This was a nice accent against the dark floors. We kept much of the lighting more neutral. Because the flooring was dark, we added rugs that were nice and light and tried to sprinkle other light fabrics and textures with pillows, drapery, and other smaller furniture pieces. This allowed us to add texture to these items and mix them with some patterns and warm tones to achieve that cozy feel.
It’s also important to pick the right drapery! This creates a certain vibe but can also change the coloring in a space once the sun shines through. As a designer, I like to stick to a neutral backdrop while keeping balance and warmth in the items that are added to a space.
QCan you talk about your approach to designing cozy nooks in this project and how they contribute to creating an overall warm atmosphere in the home?
ACreating nooks with unused space is important to help pull a cozy room together. Seeing open or unused space in your bedroom or main living spaces is not ideal. Balancing the larger pieces with small reading nooks, oversized chairs, benches, and more helps create a cozy feel. We added oversized and plush chairs in many of these spaces, and benches in the hallways to layer in warmth, along with the idea of being able to sit wherever in leisure.
Cozy up with three interior design styles this season in our latest edition of Styles We Love, influenced by timeless beauty and sophistication. The Return to Noir, Earth Tones, and Old Money trends will warm your hearts and your home, evoking a sense of elegance, refinement, and a touch of natural coziness.
When it comes to interior design, the color black is powerfully alluring, whether it is used as a background, decor, or flooring. Transform your space into a captivating and elegant environment with matte black details that draw the eye by providing a sense of depth and intensity. As a neutral color, black creates a striking contrast, making other colors pop. Incorporate Return to Noir with black accessories for depth and contrast, and experiment with black textures and patterns to add visual interest.
1. Arhaus Saxon Large Pendant
2. Burke Decor Saltwater Floor Mirror
3. Crate & Barrel Styles Black Throw Blanket
4. Alchemy Fine Home Peri Lauren Interiors Pure Gold Scented Candle
5. Black Patterned Carpet by Carpet One Floor & Home
6. West Elm Black & White Series III Framed Wall Art
7. Heksa Glazed Porcelain by Emser available at Carpet One Floor & Home
8. CB2 Gwyneth Black Boucle Loveseat
Earth Tones, encompassing a range of nature-inspired hues, evoke warmth, harmony, and a deep connection to the natural world. From rich terracotta to soothing olive green to creamy midnight blue, earth-toned hues foster a grounded and soothing ambiance. Incorporate natural textures like woven baskets or rattan accents, and consider complementing this down-to-earth color scheme with greenery and wooden furniture pieces to enhance the natural aesthetic.
Step into a world of timeless elegance and luxury with the Old Money aesthetic. Steeped in rich tradition, this style features meticulously handcrafted furniture adorned with ornate carvings and dark hardwood floors that exude warmth and sophistication. Blend the allure of the past with the present by embracing the charm of heirloom pieces, luxurious fabrics, and carefully curated art.
Picture this: a winter wonderland right in the heart of your home. With winter white carpets, you can effortlessly bring the allure of the season into your living space, creating a captivating sanctuary that will leave you spellbound.
When it comes to transforming the look and feel of your home, few elements have as much impact as the flooring you choose. White carpets have captured the hearts of homeowners and interior designers alike with their unique ability to evoke a sense of purity and serenity while brightening up any room. Their pristine, snowy appearance
instantly transports you to a world of tranquil beauty, perfect for turning your home into a relaxing and aesthetically pleasing space.
Like a blank canvas awaiting your artistic touch, winter white carpets become the backdrop for your interior design aspirations, allowing your creativity to soar. Whether you’re considering a complete flooring makeover or simply looking to add a beautiful carpet to one room of your home, join us as we uncover the versatility of winter white carpets, and learn how they can transform your home into a breathtaking winter sanctuary.
White carpets offer a unique allure that goes well beyond practicality as a flooring option. They have a remarkable ability to catch the eye and create a visually stunning focal point in any room. By embracing the charm of white carpeting, you can transform your home into an elegant space with a sense of wonder.
One key advantage of a white carpet is its crisp, clean look that instantly conveys a feeling of freshness and immaculate cleanliness. It creates a blank canvas that allows your furniture, decor, and personal style to take center stage, resulting in a visually harmonious space.
White carpets also excel at brightening up spaces. The light-reflective properties of the carpet
bounce natural and artificial light throughout the room, creating an airy and spacious feel. This is especially beneficial in small or dimly lit rooms, where the right flooring can make a significant difference in making the space appear large and inviting.
Additionally, white carpets can transport you to a winter wonderland, even if you live in a region where snow is rare. The association with snowy landscapes and the magic of the winter season brings a touch of enchantment to your home. Whether you pair it with cool blue accents or warm earth tones, winter white carpets can help create a serene atmosphere reminiscent of a cozy cabin retreat or a luxurious ski resort.
The reflective nature of white carpet can significantly affect a room’s overall brightness and ambiance, making it fresh and inviting. By choosing a white carpet, you can maximize the effect of natural light, which is often rare in the dark hours of winter months. When sunlight filters through windows and falls on white flooring, it bounces off the surface, spreading a soft glow throughout the room. Artificial lighting from your floor lamps is also amplified and can help highlight other design elements in your space,
White carpets have a transformative effect on a room, elevating your interior design to new heights of sophistication and elegance. Their pristine and versatile nature allows them to seamlessly blend with various color schemes, furniture styles, and decor choices, creating a harmonious and visually stunning environment.
When paired with other neutral tones, white carpets create a clean and minimalist aesthetic, adding a touch of modern elegance to the room. They also provide a sense of balance, ensuring your space feels light, airy, and uncluttered.
For those who prefer bold and vibrant color schemes, white carpets are a striking contrast that enhances the impact of your chosen hues. They serve as a backdrop for rich, saturated colors, making them appear more vivid and dynamic. This juxtaposition creates a visually stimulating environment that captures attention and expresses your personal style.
including artwork, furniture, and architectural features.
To make the most of the brightening effect, it’s important to consider the shades of white. Opting for pure white or off-white shades can create a crisp and vibrant look, whereas slightly warmer tones like ivory or cream can infuse a cozy and welcoming feel. By selecting the right shade, you can tailor the brightness to suit your desired aesthetic and ambiance.
Imagine sinking your toes into the plush comfort of a white, fluffy carpet. Every step is met with a gentle embrace, transporting you to a realm of pure bliss, like walking on a cloud. And if you prefer more versatility, white rugs can effortlessly serve as captivating accents, adding an extra layer of charm to your living spaces.
In addition to their comfort, thick, white carpets contribute to the visual allure of your space. Their texture and volume add depth and dimension to the room to create an alluring focal point. The contrast between the fluffy, white fibers and other design elements in the room, such as furniture or artwork, can create a striking aesthetic that draws the eye and adds a touch of sophistication.
But keep in mind that if you decide to opt for a fluffy, white carpet, you’ll need to manage the upkeep. To maintain the beauty of plush carpets, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential. Vacuuming with a brush attachment and occasional professional cleaning can keep your carpets looking pristine for years to come.
One popular trend in interior design is the art of layering area rugs, and when combined with white carpets, it creates a stunning visual effect that adds depth, texture, and personality to your space. Layering rugs on white flooring allows you to create distinct zones within a room, define specific areas, and introduce additional colors and patterns.
By layering rugs, you can play with different textures, materials, and sizes to create a visually interesting and dynamic space. A plush, textured rug layered over a white carpet adds warmth and comfort underfoot, whereas a patterned rug introduces a focal point and injects personality into the room. The layering technique allows you to mix and match rugs that complement each other, creating a unique and personalized look.
When layering rugs, consider the scale and proportion of the room to ensure a balanced and harmonious look. Experiment with different rug shapes, such as round or square rugs, to add variety and visual interest. Remember, the key is to have fun and be creative, allowing your layering choices to reflect your personal style and add a touch of personality to your home.
This season, embrace the allure of winter white carpets, and turn your space into a haven of beauty and serenity. It’s time to awaken your senses to the mesmerizing beauty of these carpets and discover the true magic they hold.
As we peer through the looking glass into 2024, we see supercuts from a world of bold, new colorways, organic shapes, and the timeless appeal of matte black details. Now’s the time to start anew and bring these stunning, fresh looks into your home design. From dark parquet hardwood installations to soft, natural elements and polished concrete floors, explore the four design trends that are taking over interior design this year.
Not sure where to start? Lucky for you, our style quiz will help you find the perfect 2024 trend to match your lifestyle!
• Yearn for a soft design style that embraces natural elements like wood, stone, plants, limewash, and sustainable materials.
• Like to emphasize functionality with industrial-grade materials, including brick, tile, and raw wood.
• Aim to create clean and calming spaces by purchasing organic products and opting for sustainable design options.
• A polished concrete-look tile
• A gray-washed, hand-scraped white oak
• Raw, concrete-look luxury vinyl
• A light white oak hardwood floor
• Are a homebody who loves a calming, relaxed atmosphere with soft edges and a natural ambience
• Are drawn to the romance of curved archways, shapely furniture, and boucle upholstery
• Find yourself looking to establish unique focal points in every room you enter with curved lighting, area rugs, and artwork
• A greige, eco-friendly carpet in a natural pattern
• A hand-scraped hickory hardwood with high variation
HAND-SCRAPED WHITE OAK HARDWOOD
• Are drawn to decorating your home with earthy color palettes like mauve and caramel browns with rustic accents in the form of brick and terracotta clay
• Like to use wall treatments that showcase texture and dimension paired with organic linens and furnishings
• Love to add little splashes of organic colorways through lighting, upholstery, and flooring to give your space a warm ambience
• A hand-scraped white oak in midtones
• A stone-look tile in terracotta
• Enjoy a main character moment and prefer personalized and character-rich spaces
• Love rich black finishes paired with a moody gothic style that give your home a contemporary twist
• Like to play with vintage details such as sweeping curtains, arched mirrors, marble sculptures, and lavish chandeliers
• A smooth, dark red maple hardwood floor
• An elegant, plush piled black carpet
• A black marble-look luxury vinyl
• A striking, black marble-veined, multi-geometric wall tile
You might strive to minimize drama in your life, but when it comes to interior design, a little drama can go a long way. So forget the longabandoned idea of the utilitarian home, and start thinking of your space as a blank canvas—your own masterpiece in the making.
Photography by STEPHANI BUCHMAN
Adding the right emphasis in the right places can instantly elevate the aesthetic appeal of a room by infusing character, dimension, and a sense of luxury in an inviting and memorable atmosphere.
Drama, whether through color, texture, or material, becomes a focal point, guiding the eye and drawing attention to particular areas, such as a fireplace, a large piece of artwork, or an inlaid parquet wood floor. It establishes hierarchy and balance within the room. By the same virtue, a dramatic focal point can also detract attention from less-desirable elements in your space, making them recede from focus by drawing emphasis elsewhere.
The right dramatic decor elements allow you to express your personality and design preferences. Whether you prefer bold and vibrant colors, subtle textures, or intricate patterns, you can make a statement that reflects your unique taste.
One way to add drama and create a fabulous focal point is by incorporating a feature wall. A well-designed feature wall can transform an ordinary space into an extraordinary one, capturing all eyes and leaving a lasting impression. From someone who’s designed more than a few feature walls, here’s everything you need to know, including the benefits of adding one, some inspiring ideas, and tips to help you put your creativity into practice.
A feature wall, also known as an accent wall, is a visually distinct element within a room that sets it apart from the surrounding walls. It is an opportunity to introduce color, texture, pattern, or material diversity, creating a captivating focal point. By highlighting a specific area, a feature wall draws attention to architectural details, emphasizes artwork, or showcases unique design elements.
You’ve likely seen a feature wall or two in your day. Maybe it was one of those muralized, marbleized walls executed with paint, sponges, and imagination. Now, forget about them! Feature walls have come a long way through advanced materials and finishing options.
Here are a few ways to incorporate a feature wall and add moody drama to your home design.
Use rich jewel tones and deep hues like sapphire, emerald, or amethyst to create a dramatic backdrop for your space. Opt for contrasting colors that harmonize with the room’s overall color scheme. For instance, a neutral room with natural-toned flooring can be complemented by a feature wall in a bold, contrasting color.
Add warmth and rustic charm with a feature wall clad in reclaimed wood. The natural textures and variations in wood grains create an inviting ambiance and can even work to complement your existing hardwood floors. Expose a brick wall to infuse an industrial or urban vibe. The raw texture and earthy tones make for a captivating visual statement. Explore textured wallpapers with patterns like faux grass cloth, woven fibers, or embossed designs. These add depth and tactile interest to your wall.
Wallpaper has certainly come a long way in recent years, available in a range of colors, patterns, and materials. Application has never been easier, and the same goes for removal when the time comes to refresh your space. When papering a feature wall, look for bold patterns, such as geometric shapes, botanical motifs, or abstract designs that draw attention. Incorporate wallpapers with metallic accents, like gold or silver, to add a touch of glamour and luxury to your space. To take it up a notch, use custom wallpapers if you have something specific in mind.
Install fabric wall panels to add a touch of luxury and sophistication to your feature wall. Choose rich fabrics like velvet or silk for an opulent look. When it comes to textile touch, you can even find inspiration in the colorways and textures of area rugs that you’ve chosen to layer throughout your home.
Choose your wall wisely. Select one that naturally catches your eye, like a wall facing the entrance to the room, one with an architectural feature, like a fireplace, or one that is the recipient of ample natural light. Avoid walls with windows and doorways, which can minimize the impact of the installation. Since the goal and purpose is to create drama, large, empty walls are the perfect blank canvas to infuse some style.
Use the feature wall to enhance your home’s existing style scheme. This isn’t the place to go on a tangent, which can make the wall stand out for all the wrong reasons. Instead, choose a design that complements its surroundings and creates a cohesive look.
In interior design, balance and proportion are everything, and this rule also applies to feature walls. In small rooms, using light colors and subtle patterns
will ensure the wall doesn’t overwhelm the space. However, subtlety gets lost in large rooms, so a bold choice will make a stronger statement.
Design elements have zero impact if you can’t see them, so be sure to highlight your feature wall with ample lighting. Natural light is always preferred, but in its absence, add lighting such as wall sconces, pendant lights, or spotlights to showcase the wall as the focal point it’s intended to be.
Your home should be an expression of your personal style, so use it as an opportunity to tell your story. The good news is that there are endless inspirations and options available to help you create that dramatic oneof-a-kind feature wall that makes the right impact. Think outside the proverbial box (or in this case, room), and make your home something truly special.
1. 4. 2. 3.“Home” has always been associated with a sense of warmth and welcome. Cozy-chic, cocooning, hygge—whatever you call it—the trend is not new by any means, but it is materializing in exciting ways in the modern home. Here are three style tips to bring comfort and enjoyment back into your home this year.
Color has been shown to elicit emotions that can manifest in behavioral and even physical ways. Colors on the warm side of the spectrum, such as those with red undertones, can promote feelings of strength, power, passion, love, excitement, and energy. Now that we’re on the other side of the pandemic and getting back out there, we’re increasingly seeking warmth and familiarity in our lives and homes. Echoing that desire, it’s no surprise that the world’s color experts chose Viva Magenta, a bold shade of red, as the 2023 trending color of the year. Adding red to your rooms, whether as a predominant palette or as an accent, will instantly spark warmth in your home.
Lighting is more than just a way to illuminate dark corners. The right lighting can create a warm and cozy atmosphere that will instantly put you at ease. But not just any lighting will do! Create ambiance by layering your light sources. Every room has its primary light source—typically a ceiling fixture. Although this single light fixture will do the job, it’s not enough to set a mood. Add a combination of table and floor lamps, sconces, and accent lighting to bring your rooms to life. Pay attention to the distribution of your lighting to ensure it is balanced throughout your home. Beyond the light sources themselves, consider the temperature of your lighting. To create visual warmth, use warm bulbs with yellow undertones.
Have you ever noticed that minimal spaces tend to look and feel cold? Conversely, rooms that are brimming with detail are often more visually interesting, inviting, and engaging, with an enhanced sense of home. Our emotional connections to people, places, and experiences inspire this collected aesthetic. This look tells a story through all the senses. Work in layers and aim for balance. Incorporate varieties of textures, patterns, and materials throughout the space, from the backdrop of the home (like walls, floors, and built-in elements) to furnishings, accents, and artwork.
Although getting the details right may seem daunting, approach this as part of the renovating or decorating process rather than as an attempt to add superficial details after the fact. Choose a key theme for your home: it could be a cultural, environmental, or historic influence. Then let that theme guide every choice that follows, from selecting your floors (the canvas) to choosing decor, for a thoughtful and harmonious style.
Deep down, we all want the place we call home to bring out our best, to invoke a sense of safety, warmth, and welcome. We long for a space that reflects our past and offers a glimpse into our soul. If you put your heart into the space you create, you’ll always feel at home.
Photography by SPACE CRAFTING PHOTOGRAPHY
Our client was ready to embark on a new stage in her life, and she wanted her home to reflect that. Surrounded by 360 degrees of a private, wooded enclave, the home’s incredible views transition from lush greens to cozy browns throughout the year. Our design was inspired by a color palette that tied neatly into those seasonal changes.
With a vision to refresh a dated house and infuse it with a blend of modern sophistication and cozy comfort just for her, this remodel is a recipe for mixing classic, cozy, and modern elements for a warm and inviting home. Originally adorned with heavy furnishings and a dark palette that diminished the home’s natural light, the home yearned for a revitalization to match its picturesque surroundings.
Our goal was clear—to brighten and modernize the space while preserving its inherent charm and coziness. Timeless design is not about a single style but mixing what you love to curate a personalized aesthetic. Here’s how we did just that…
When designing a space, classic furniture shapes and timeless brass finishes create a sense of cohesion and balance within a home. Originally, this home was too formal, with furnishings and finishes that weighed down the interior. We embraced traditional elements, like the shape and style of the dining room chairs, but imbued them with some casual ease. A rich, green velvet hints at the room’s occasionally formal purpose, whereas the rattan backing and raw wood finishes give an overall laid-back appeal. Notes of brass, from lighting details and candlesticks to the kitchen faucet and cabinet pulls, elevate each space with a hint of elegance.
Determine the classic elements you love. From cabinetry style to finishes, these are elements you’ll want to integrate throughout your home for a cohesive aesthetic.
We curated each living space to be a blend of elements for a custom design. The simple and timeless aesthetic of the existing kitchen cabinetry worked with our kitchen updates, and a charming wallpaper immediately modernized the now charming space. Classic elements like the light and bright countertops and backsplash, along with luxe notes of brass, made this kitchen perfect for our client and the surrounding views.
Classic can also be cozy, in fact, it’s a must for this northern home, where the views turn into winter wonderland for many months of the year. Natural wood is a classic choice that adds warmth and intimacy to any space. The original walnut wood floors were kept and refinished. These floors set the stage for updated living room features like a new fireplace and beautiful built-ins, all complemented by the addition of stunning ceiling beams at the client’s request. The furnishings fit the classic style of living, whereas the fabric textures, color palette, and oversized coffee table lended the room a feeling of snug comfort. The resulting room invites guests to gather and relax.
Consider what makes you feel comfy and cozy. Where will you spend the most time? These are the furnishings and design elements that should exude warmth and invite you in, like rich, dark hardwood floors, a spacious couch, and soft fabrics.
The living room, a focal point of the home, received special attention. Equipped with a new fireplace, functional built-in shelves, and a redesigned TV placement, it now exudes comfort and functionality. The addition of wooden beams welcomes guests with open arms, making it an inviting space for gathering.
A balanced space imparts a sense of visual calm and cohesion. Classic furnishings and relaxed fabrics combine to create an intimate space. We added modern shapes and finishes to create a hint of luxe to elevate every portion of the home. The oversized living room coffee table features a modern shape and lines. The lounge chairs present a minimal vibe. The kitchen counter stools perfectly capture the aesthetic of this home with unique shapes, clean lines, and casual elegance.
The primary suite is an oasis of relaxation within the home. Lush bedding in a contrasting color palette is balanced by clean lines and modern shapes, like the nightstand and low-profile reading chair. The ensuite bathroom is all luxurious marble and bold black tiles for a spa-like experience at home. The classic brass fixtures in the shower add a touch of glamour, while a spacious tub offers the perfect spot for unwinding after a long day.
Modern doesn’t mean a high contrast, monochromatic home with minimalist furnishings. Instead, a modern aesthetic with its clean lines and low profiles adds balance.
At its core, this remodel was a journey of self-expression for the homeowner, who sought to curate a cozy and personalized sanctuary all her own. This was the ultimate exercise in seamlessly mixing styles to achieve the coziness of hygge with the classic appeal of Ralph Lauren in a casual lake home with views for miles.
Although dated, the home offered a layout and size that
would work well for her and her life. From there, we created the modern home experience she sought. This cozy home remodel epitomizes the perfect marriage of classic grace and contemporary allure. From the inviting living room to the serene master suite, every corner exudes a sense of warmth and sophistication, the result of three perfectly paired styles—classic, cozy, and modern.
Carpet One Floor & Home is your local source for all things flooring. Discover what makes each type of flooring unique.
Known for its natural charm, hardwood is timeless and stylish. With strength complemented by raw beauty, hardwood floors create a canvas for inviting, flawlessly fashionable, and long-lasting interior styles. Available in a variety of wood types, stain colors, and finishes, there is an abundance of hardwood options on the market. Some of today’s hardwood flooring styles also offer additional features like water and scratch resistance to hold up to life’s toughest days. For a timeless and elegant look, hardwood floors are a great choice.
WIREBRUSHED WHITE OAK HARDWOOD
by Carpet One Floor & Home
Carpet, the ideal flooring option for adding warmth, has been around for many years and still holds the top spot for making any space feel cozy. Carpet can increase a home’s overall level of comfort, and new technologies have enhanced its many benefits. With softer, stronger, and more stain-resistant carpets now available, maintenance is lower, and the burden of upkeep is no longer an issue. Plus, with new styles emerging every day, carpet is sophisticated and offers a look that suits any up-and-coming trend.
by Carpet One Floor & Home
Get the exquisite appeal of hardwood, tile, or stone in every room. With remarkable durability and impressive water resistance, laminate flooring stands strong in any area of your home. From high-traffic entryways to rambunctious playrooms, messy dining rooms to busy staircases, laminate floors effortlessly withstand whatever life throws their way.
WOOD-LOOK LAMINATE by Carpet One Floor &
HomeThanks to its gorgeous appearance and performance, luxury vinyl flooring is a top choice. With cutting-edge technologies and digital design advancements, these styles flawlessly mimic the look of wood, tile, or stone, leaving you wondering if it’s the real deal. Luxury vinyl flooring also offers a host of features tailored to various lifestyles. Experience the ease of low maintenance, along with water, scratch, and scuff resistance, that ensures your floors stay impeccable.
NATURAL STONE-LOOK LUXURY VINYL by Carpet One
Floor & HomeFrom timeless traditions to cutting-edge contemporary styles, tile effortlessly complements any design aesthetic. With a plethora of colors, patterns, sizes, and shapes, creating a beautiful and elegant design is a breeze. Tile lends itself to a variety of styles, and some types are water-resistant or waterproof, making them ideal for moistureprone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and foyers. Additionally, tile can be used creatively to fashion an accent wall, sink backsplash, or textural feature, adding a touch of sophistication to your design.
With endless colors, designs, sizes, and shapes, area rugs redefine interior design. They delineate key spaces, complement your style, and protect hard-surface floors from heavy traffic. Stay current as the trends evolve by effortlessly swapping out these versatile rugs.
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“MAKE YOUR HOME AS COMFORTABLE AND ATTRACTIVE AS POSSIBLE, AND THEN GET ON WITH LIVING. THERE’S MORE TO LIFE THAN DECORATING.”
~ Albert Hadley ~
The perfect beverage for the whole family—nothing beats the cozy warmth of a rich cup of hot chocolate. With or without marshmallows, that hot chocolate could leave you with more than happy memories if this treat gets spilled on your carpet.
Save the memories and get rid of the stain with this easy-to-follow advice on cleaning up.
Here’s what you’ll need on hand to make sure you’re prepared for an accidental spill:
• Clear dishwashing detergent
• Enzyme laundry detergent
• Baking soda
• White towels
• Warm water
• Sponge
1. Create your cleaning solution:
Pre-soak solution: Mix 1 teaspoon enzyme laundry detergent with one cup of water. Detergent: Mix ½ teaspoon clear dishwashing detergent with one cup of warm (not hot) water.
2. Blot up excess spill.
3. Treat with detergent solution.
4. Blot with a clean white cloth.
5. Apply white vinegar.
6. Blot again; don’t rub.
7. Apply water with sponge.
8. Blot and repeat as necessary.
9. Apply paper towels and weight.
10. Leave overnight.
Note: Not all carpet fibers react the same way when treated for stains. Before proceeding with any of the preceding cleaning procedures, we recommend you contact the appropriate fiber company for their suggested maintenance guidelines. Failure to follow these carpet stain removal guidelines may void your warranty. For more information, please contact your Carpet One Floor & Home retailer.
But they don’t have to stay with you forever. Be prepared to tackle any stain that life throws at you with Carpet One Floor & Home’s Stain First Aid app. It’s free for your iPhone, iPad, Android phone, or Android tablet.
Never panic again when spills happen. Stain First Aid has over 50 of the most common household stains covered, including detailed cleaning instructions and video tips.
