ASK ANTHONY: LET THERE BE LIGHT! REFITTING YOUR HOME’S INCANDESCENT LIGHTING TO LED

When you start designing a home or room, it’s easy to focus on the visible things first, like colors, furniture, materials and finishes. But that’s not where great design begins. Design starts long before you make any aesthetic choices. It begins with understanding how you’ll live in the space, how you’ll move through it and how it can best serve your daily life. If you want a space that looks beautiful and feels effortless, the process has to start with function and flow. Understand Your Needs Before sketching a layout or choosing materials, ask how you’ll actually use the space. This means being specific. Who will use each area? What activities will happen there? What problems need solving, such as a lack of storage, poor lighting or awkward traffic flow? For example, if your living room doubles as a workspace, you’ll need different lighting zones and storage solutions than if it’s just for relaxing. A kitchen used for large family meals requires a different layout than one built for a quick morning coffee. Write these needs down. This list will guide every decision to follow, from the size of the furniture to the location of electrical outlets. Plan the Flow Once you know your needs, focus on how people will move through the space. Flow is the invisible backbone of great design. It determines whether a home feels open and natural, or cramped and confusing. Ensure there are clear pathways between rooms to maximize the spaces. Start by sketching rough pathways through the space. Imagine walking in from the front door — where do you go next? Does the space encourage movement, or does the furniture obstruct the path? Are there clear sight lines between key areas like the kitchen, dining and living room? A well-designed flow allows easy transitions between tasks and zones. Think about: Entry points: Are they clutter-free and welcoming? Circulation: Do you have enough space to walk comfortably, even when doors are open? Natural light: How does it move through the space during the day, and can you maximize it? A great test is to physically walk through your plan on paper before anything is built. If something feels awkward now, it’ll feel even worse in real life. Design for Real Life, Not Just for Show Functionality goes beyond traffic flow. It’s about everyday details that make life easier. Plan for outlets where you’ll actually need them, consider how storage fits into your routine and ensure lighting supports your lifestyle. Daily habits drive design. For instance, by the mid-1930s, as much as 70% of the United States population began to have access to electricity, and homes began to change dramatically. Electric refrigerators replaced iceboxes, and new lighting made kitchens brighter and more practical. When you build your layout around how you use your home, it becomes timelessly functional, just like those early modern homes that adapted to new ways of living. Layer in the Beauty Only once the flow and function are right should you focus on aesthetics. This is the fun part where you choose materials, finishes, colors and textures that reflect your personality. Start with lighting. It’s one of the easiest ways to highlight the flow you’ve already created. Use layered lighting to define zones and create mood. Warmer tones can promote calmness and relaxation , and cooler tones can boost concentration. Then think about surfaces. Natural materials like wood and stone add warmth, while metals or glass can add contrast and structure. Use color strategically to emphasize how the space works. Soft tones can make rooms feel bigger, while rich hues can make open areas feel cozy. Textiles, artwork and decor are the final touches that bring soul to the design, but they should enhance the flow, not fight it. Revisit and Refine Designing a functional space isn’t a one-and-done process. Once your plan is in place, walk through it again. Visualize cooking dinner, hosting guests, getting ready for the day or winding down after work. Adjust as needed. If something doesn’t feel intuitive, change it. The best designers constantly refine until the space works effortlessly. Form Follows Function Great design starts with flow. It’s about making the space work for you before making it aesthetic. Once function is built into every corner, beauty naturally follows. Start with how you live, plan around how you move and then layer in everything that makes it feel like home.

Fall decorating is about more than a few carved pumpkins on the porch. The season brings a chance to warm up your home with color, texture and natural light, creating a cozy space that celebrates the shift in weather without feeling overdone. These creative ways help you capture autumn’s charm indoors and out. 1. Bring in Earthy, Unexpected Color Instead of relying on predictable orange tones, build your palette from nature’s softer side. Think of terracotta, mustard, olive green, rust and chocolate brown. These shades layer beautifully with neutrals like cream, camel or stone. Paint a single wall in a rich hue or mix textured throw pillows and blankets in coordinating tones. Even small accents, such as ceramic vases or linen napkins, can shift a room’s mood toward fall. 2. Add Natural Textures for Instant Warmth Texture defines autumn's decor. Combine materials that feel organic and layered rather than sleek and polished. Balance rougher textures with smooth surfaces like glass or polished metal for a look that feels curated, not cluttered. Ideas include: Woven baskets for blanket storage or firewood Chunky knit throws draped over an armchair Wood and rattan accents that bring visual warmth 3. Highlight Seasonal Greenery Skip faux leaves and instead mix real greenery with dried stems. Think eucalyptus, pampas grass or maroon-hued branches. Avoid traditional favorites like yew, which is poisonous and contains taxine , to keep your home kid- and pet-safe.  A large vase on a console table or entryway shelf brings life to transitional spaces. Dry your flowers or reuse stems from summer arrangements for a sustainable touch. 4. Layer Lighting for Cozy Evenings As daylight shortens, lighting becomes key to fall’s inviting glow. Pair overhead fixtures with lamps, candles and string lights to create depth and warmth. Position seating near windows to optimize natural light. Daylight improves your comfort and mood by providing vitamin D , alleviating seasonal affective disorder. You can enhance this effect by drawing back heavy curtains to let daylight in during daytime hours. 5. Bring in the Outdoors Collect fallen leaves, pinecones or acorns during a weekend walk and display them in glass jars or wooden bowls. Mixing natural finds with candles or metallic accents creates an effortless seasonal vignette or wreath. If you have a mantel, swap summer artwork for a framed pressed-leaf display or landscape print. 6. Create a Focal Point With Fragrance Scent is one of the quickest ways to evoke fall. Layer candle aromas like sandalwood, fig, amber and clove. Add a simmer pot with cinnamon sticks, apple slices and orange peels to infuse your space naturally. Keep fragrances subtle so they complement, not compete with, your decor. 7. Switch Up Textiles Rotate out lightweight fabrics for heavier materials like flannel and soft ones like velvet and fleece or tactile wool, which stimulate your senses positively. Changing curtains, bedding and table runners can instantly make a home feel cozier without adding clutter. Mix patterns, such as plaids, houndstooth and floral prints, but stay within one color story to keep everything cohesive. 8. Style Outdoor Spaces Extend the cozy factor outdoors by using hay bales with a durable blanket cover as casual seating for firepit nights, adding lanterns to pathways and layering outdoor rugs for texture. Finish with a seasonal wreath made from dried wheat or magnolia leaves for a timeless entrance that welcomes guests before they step inside. 9. Make It Personal The best fall decor reflects your personality. Frame family photos from apple-picking trips, showcase handmade pottery or layer your favorite vintage finds. Your home feels seasonal and uniquely yours when every piece tells a story. Fall Into Action Fall decorating is less about matching a trend and more about creating atmosphere. The flicker of candlelight on a cool evening, the scent of cinnamon drifting from the kitchen, the way sunlight filters through a linen curtain — these small moments make a space feel alive. Use the season as a cue to slow down, refresh your home and rediscover comfort in the details. Whether you swap in rich textiles, experiment with layered lighting or simply open your windows to let the crisp air in, each touch brings a little more of autumn’s magic indoors. When you’re done, your home should be an invitation to gather, rest, and savor the cozy months ahead.

For centuries, private members’ clubs have been a refuge for the wealthy and the well-connected. Traditionally places of sophisticated luxury and aristocratic comfort, they enabled networking, private socializing and sanctuary. Today, you can recreate a similar feel at home. Here’s what to aim for, how to achieve it — and why you might want to. What Exactly is a Members’ Club Vibe? These exclusive establishments — until recently, gentleman-only spaces — evolved from the coffee houses of 17th-century London. They were designed to be somewhere for upper-class men to escape the demands of their household and instead relax, socialize and develop their contacts. Typically housed in beautiful buildings, the interiors blended luxurious, comfortable, timeless elements such as would have been found in the grand stately homes of the landed gentry. Seating was often arranged to facilitate intimate conversation, with small zones for drinking or gambling. The original clubs were a product of their time, but the intent — to be a home from home — still endures. Key Features of Members’ Club Interior Design Today, many clubs have evolved with the times and now feature a more diverse array of styles to suit modern tastes — but there’s something about the classic, aristocratic, Victorian vibe that still appeals to many. Moody Yet Cozy Color Palettes Think deep, saturated colors — timeless burgundy or oxblood, dark greens, rich blues or jewel tones — often paired with warm wood paneling or dark-toned finishes. This creates an enveloping, comforting atmosphere and exudes sophistication. Luxurious Materials and Finishes For textures, the members’ club aesthetic uses an eclectic mix of tactile fabrics and materials. From velvet to leather or mohair, furniture and cushions feel good against the body. In the rest of the room, elegant finishes include marble, polished brass, thick carpeting or rugs, and dark wood. Intimate, Layered Lighting Instead of harsh overhead light, this vibe calls for a layered approach, using a mix of table lamps, floor lamps, sconces and statement lighting pieces to create warm, inviting pools of light. Lighting may arguably be the most psychologically important element of any interior, so this is a key factor to get right. Statement Pieces With Character Traditionally, members’ clubs had iconic furniture, such as wingback chairs and Chesterfield sofas. Mismatched items were fine because each piece was valued in its own right. Rooms would also have been filled with carefully curated art and ornamental pieces, giving a strong sense of personality. 4 Steps to Get the Luxury Members’ Club Look at Home You don’t have to spend a fortune to get the look the world’s wealthiest once coveted. Here are some practical, budget-friendly ways to get started. 1. Anchor the Room With a Rich Color You could paint the whole area in moody tones, but if you want to start small, one wall in a members’ club palette tone can be very impactful. Instead, or as well on other walls, you could use flocked or textured wallpaper in a luxurious, heirloom or damask design. The flooring color is also important. Dark hardwood floors are perfect for this vibe, but if you pair them with dark furniture and walls, it may be too much. Adding some light or bright accent touches elsewhere in the space helps prevent a monotone feel. 2. Choose One “Hero” Piece of Furniture Invest in a single, high-impact item, like a velvet armchair or handsome bar cart, to act as the focal point. Since these establishments traditionally have niches and cozy corners, you don’t even have to transform a whole room. Creating a nook can be a very practical and cost-effective way to get started. If you have two chairs, put them close together and at an angle, for meaningful conversation. 3. Curate Your Clutter The members’ club aesthetic is characterful, so include bookshelves, decorative objects and a curated art collection on the wall. This is a chance to show off your personality — someone should be able to infer something about you from the objects you choose to display. Seeking out second-hand art and photos is a great way to begin building a collection. 4. Perfect the Finishing Touches Think about the small details, such as upgrading your hardware to brass, using plush rugs or adding a signature scent through candles or diffusers. You’ll be surprised by how much impact these little touches can have. Reasons to Embrace the Members’ Club Aesthetic The concept of the “third space” — somewhere that’s neither work nor home but offers the best of both — took root during the pandemic, but historically, members’ clubs fulfilled exactly that purpose. Today, a similar area can help relieve stress and act as a personal sanctuary within your own home. Because this vibe is restorative, comfortable and deeply layered, it’s a character-driven ambience that can grow with you. Every such space will be unique to the person who created it. Whether working on your laptop, chatting, reading or just enjoying a coffee, your atmospheric nook will make the moment feel special. Welcome to the Club Ultimately, the members’ club look is about creating a feeling. By layering rich colors, tactile materials and personal touches, you can craft a sophisticated sanctuary for everyday luxury. It’s your space to relax, connect and feel perfectly at home — no membership required.

Pumpkins on the porch and pine wreaths on the door are classic, but what if your seasonal décor could feel fresh, stylish and uniquely yours? From chic fall palettes to subtle Halloween touches, there are plenty of ways to make your outdoor space memorable without going over the top. And before you hang that oversized skeleton, remember — homeowners' associations often have rules that affect what’s allowed outside your front door. 1. Autumnal Colors Beyond Orange Pumpkins and bright orange are classic fall staples, but branching out into muted greens, deep plums, burgundy and soft yellows can create a more sophisticated , layered look. Mix these colors in planters, wreaths or even outdoor cushions to give your porch a fresh, updated look. Weatherproof paints and fabrics are essential to keep your décor vibrant through wind and rain. 2. Layered Texture for Cozy Curb Appeal Texture adds depth and warmth to your outdoor space. Combine wicker baskets, wooden crates, metal lanterns and natural fiber rugs to create a rich and inviting display. Layering is key — place a burlap throw over a bench, scatter cushions in complementary tones and include lanterns of varying heights. Protect delicate fabrics with weatherproof sprays or removable covers to keep everything looking fresh, even through the occasional drizzle or early frost. 3. Subtle Halloween Twists Halloween doesn’t have to mean over-the-top scare tactics. Tasteful touches, such as elegant lanterns, miniature pumpkins in muted tones or a few delicate spiderweb accents, can evoke the autumnal season without creating a haunted house vibe. When decorating your outdoor spaces, it’s always best to double-check your community guidelines because HOAs can dictate how you use your property in neighborhoods. The result is a stylish, festive look that neighbors will admire without feeling excessive. 4. Planter Creativity and Outdoor Greenery Seasonal plants are an easy way to refresh your outdoor space. Think beyond traditional mums — ornamental kale, cabbage, grasses and hardy fall flowers bring texture and color to your porch or garden. Get creative with containers, such as wood crates, ceramic pots or vintage urns, to make unique planters that elevate the display. Arrange plants thoughtfully, mixing heights and textures. Choose varieties that can withstand early frost or wind to keep your arrangement looking fresh throughout the season. 5. Outdoor Lighting Magic Lighting transforms your seasonal décor from simple to spectacular. String lights, lanterns and solar-powered path lights add warmth and ambience, highlighting your favorite features and creating a welcoming glow. Mix soft ambient lighting with a few strategically placed spotlights on pumpkins, planters or seasonal statues to create depth. Remember to check HOA restrictions if you live in a community — they sometimes limit brightness or placement to avoid disturbing neighbors. With the right lighting, your outdoor space can look magical even after dark. 6. Functional and Stylish Outdoor Accents Along with being decorative, outdoor décor can serve a purpose. Consider benches with cozy throws, fire pits for chilly evenings or decorative storage for garden tools and seasonal accessories. Neutral tones or metallic accents complement seasonal colors and make your space feel curated rather than cluttered. Protect items from rain and frost with covers or by moving them under shelter when not in use, so they stay beautiful all season long. Functional pieces allow you to enjoy both style and comfort outdoors. Bonus Tip: Keep It Low-Maintenance and Safe Even the most stylish décor won’t be enjoyable if it’s constantly falling apart or creating hazards. Stick to easy-to-maintain items and ensure walkways are clear of leaves, wet planters or decorations that could cause slips and falls. Rotating or storing seasonal items off-season preserves them and keeps your outdoor space tidy throughout the year. A little foresight goes a long way in balancing beauty, practicality and safety. Fall into Style Tasteful seasonal décor is all about balance — celebrating fall with warmth, color and personality without turning your home into a Halloween circus. By layering textures, playing with sophisticated colors, adding functional accents and considering practical factors such as weatherproofing and HOA rules, your outdoor space can wow the neighborhood and remain inviting all season long. With a bit of creativity, you can enjoy a curb appeal that’s cozy, chic and unmistakably you — no pumpkin overload required.

Whether you use them to record podcasts, maintain a fitness routine or awaken your inner artist, hobby spaces can become places where you unwind, develop skills and participate in meaningful activities. What should you consider when creating a dedicated hobby space in your home? 1. Plan According to the Desired Activities Determine features that can increase convenience. For example, using the room for art projects might mean installing laminate flooring rather than carpeting, which makes it easier to clean up spills. Make room for your full setup and comfy furniture when creating a gaming space. Adding more than one chair supports multiplayer activities. Perhaps you’ll use the hobby room to hone your musical skills and eventually record a home album. Soundproofing panels keep the associated noise in your hobby room. Along with blocking exterior noise, sound-dampening curtains can block up to 95% of incoming light , making them ideal for creating a space for processing film. Activity-specific features can foster creativity by providing what you need to flourish during your favorite pastimes. Planning for the necessities ahead of time can reduce stress, rather than beginning to use the hobby room and realizing it needs to be changed. 2. Choose the Best Place Consider the place in your home that best suits your activities. You may not need a home office due to return-to-office mandates, or you may have an extra room because an adult child moved out. If your home has no unused rooms, maximize any additional space. Reading nooks can double as cozy places for drawing, knitting or writing. Garages are ideal for hobbies such as woodworking, furniture restoration, and sprucing up a car or motorcycle if you’re not using the space. Not only do garages allow for larger spaces to engage in your hobby, but they are typically temperature controlled due to wooden or fiberglass doors providing natural insulation , establishing year-round comfort as you work. 3. Channel Your Interior Designer The room’s appearance can go a long way toward getting your creative juices flowing and making you love spending time in it. Decide whether to have a clear theme or embrace randomness. When selecting colors, designers recommend devoting 60% of the room to a dominant hue. Reserving 30% for a secondary option and the last 10% for accent shades completes the look. Prioritize decorating with things that make you smile despite life’s stresses and distractions. That might mean giving a few action figures or stuffed animals places of honor on a bookshelf or building a gallery wall featuring travel photos. 4. Allow Space for Shared Activities Some of the most meaningful creative endeavors happen with others. You might host a podcast, strengthen your ping-pong skills or paint on canvases with your best friend. Feedback from those you trust can also validate your ideas or illuminate new avenues to explore. It’s wise to plan the hobby space with the intention of spending more time with others. A 2025 survey from arts and crafts retailer Michaels found that 88% of shoppers said crafting increases their quality time with loved ones. To maximize seating in your hobby space, consider stools, benches, and ottomans. Desks that fold into the wall also make the space enjoyable and productive. 5. Simplify Storage to Prevent Clutter If a hobby room becomes cluttered, it is less useful overall, especially if you spend too much time searching for items that enrich the activities. Devise organizational strategies that work for you and what you plan to do in the space. For example, your fitness or yoga routine may need boxes to fit foam blocks, weights and straps, while artists benefit from ample drawers that hold pens, markers, paints and scrapbooking supplies. Storage products that can be moved are ideal if your hobby space occupies part of a larger room. It’s then easier to stow them out of the way to accommodate guests. One expert suggested using a wheeled cart to keep hobby-related items accessible and mobile. Peg boards and over-the-door organizers allow you to store items vertically, leaving more floor space open. Enjoy the Flexible Space For Your Hobbies An adaptable hobby space stays valuable as you continue to pursue activities. Consider the room’s layout, potential for hosting friends and decoration style. Utilize storage systems and move lesser-used items out of the way. Creating an ideal hobby space can allow you to enjoy it for years to come.

Millennials and Gen Z are taking their homes’ interiors to the next level with creative renovations. With bold new looks and sustainable living, the latest interior design trends focus on the individual rather than fitting into previous styles. Here are a few trendy design shifts these generations have popularized. 1. Eco-Conscious Living: Sustainability at the Forefront Sustainability is a top priority for modern living. Recent generations have sought ways to coexist with nature inside their homes. Gen Z and millennials have gotten creative with recycled materials. In particular, upcycling aims to repurpose materials that could improve your home’s design and help the planet. This trend is here to stay. Not only will your home receive a reimagined piece of furniture, flooring or appliance, but you’ll also help reduce landfill waste. There is no shortage of creative ways to incorporate sustainable options into your residence. 2. Personalizing Workspaces In 2019, COVID-19 shifted many workers to remote work. To this day, 43% of Americans work hybridly or fully online. Recent generations have sought ways to make the most of a home office by getting creative with colors, shelves, organizers and more. Make the most of this den by personalizing your home office to optimize your workflow. It can be your personal sanctuary to focus on deep work. With hybrid and completely online jobs becoming more common, there’s no time like the present to start incorporating this latest trend. 3. Spa-Inspired and Wellness-Focused Bathrooms Personal care has come to the forefront of ideal living. You can create a spa-like feel at home with simple updates and save the long and expensive trip to a fancy resort. Simply boost your home’s wellness attributes by refreshing spaces where you relax. One of the best starting points you can update is your bathtub or shower. Each bath you take is a prime time to relax, which becomes increasingly necessary after a long day. However, less modern designs may inhibit some of your relaxation. Bathroom trends are rapidly changing, so an outdated tub can age your bathroom , preventing you from getting the full R&R you need. Rejuvenating your energy levels by welcoming self-care can help you achieve a healthier mindset to prepare for daily stressors. Refreshing your home to match your self-care routines is also an excellent way to become a better you. 4. Bold Colors and Personal Expression Minimalist design used to be at the forefront of interior style. Due to a greater desire for the freedom to express unique interests and creativity, interior design goals have changed. It’s time to get creative with color palettes and bold statement pieces that demand your attention. Additionally, color theory impacts your mood , so you can get adventurous. Recent trends have emphasized certain aspects of a home with accent walls that consist of more vibrant hues like red or purple. With recent focus on jaw-dropping stylistic changes rather than subtle neutrals, this Millennial and Gen Z trend has become a driving force. Your time to shine is here. 5. Biophilic Design: Bringing Nature Indoors With bustling cities on the move, finding time to step into nature can be difficult. However, recent generations have prioritized being surrounded by plants. Studies have shown that having greenery around can improve workflow , making this trend even more frequent in homes. With much focus on personal care and environmental impacts, nothing aligns quite like bringing flower pots and plants into your living spaces. Indoor plants offer unique organic textures and can even be centerpieces. Unlike most accessories you’ll add to personalize your home, these will keep growing. Set up your small or large plant as a focal point for all guests to see. Since incorporating nature offers you a more affordable decorative option that also improves hard work techniques, this trend is far from over. Connecting Across Platforms The biggest motivator behind millennial and Gen Z trends is online influencers. The internet was first thought of in 1962 , but it took off with the generation of millennials. From common search bars to multi-platform social media outlets, there are so many ways you can stay connected to your fellow users. Ideas are easily spread, resulting in long-lasting trends. Designing for the Future As social media continues to flourish, and personalization, bold statements and sustainability are highly valued, these trends will become a priority for renovations. You can always embrace creative directions in your home and discover new ideas by staying connected through easily accessible platforms.

Including innovative technology in your home can seem overwhelming when all you can see are dangling wires and clunky boxes. However, while many believe incorporating smart tech into a residence will lead to overly cluttered spaces, thoughtful design strategies can allow for a more efficient and visually appealing space. Integrating advanced technology has become a crucial aspect of home design. Your residence should be equipped for routine tasks without decreasing its beauty. Here are a few simple tips on making smart tech and stylish designs work for you. 1. Conceal and Integrate Technology As home technology becomes more popular , it is vital to consider smart tech that will complement your interior design. Innovative technology allows you to complete daily activities hands-free with simple voice commands or through your phone. Technology does not have to be a constant eyesore that detracts from your home’s design. Betty Brandolino, the founder and creative director of Home Environments, says, "Homeowners want their spaces to feel warm and inviting , while still benefiting from technology behind the scenes." To reduce the chance that bulky wiring and cabling will detract from your home's design, consult a civil engineer for optimal blueprint planning. This way, before the smart tech is even incorporated, they can consider better routes for built-in cables , wiring in custom cabinetry or hidden panels. 2. Use Seamless Smart Controls for Daily Routines Making the most out of shared spaces with smart technology can help reduce clutter and offer room for new, seamless designs. Advanced technology enables adding easy and innovative system controls to electronic operators and appliances that will offer a polished new look. Here are a few areas to improve: Garage doors: A smart garage door is essential to maximize your home’s exterior. They are seen as necessary by 70% of buyers because of the easy-to-use monitoring and controlling systems. Many styles and color options are available to upgrade its appearance. Washing machines: Incorporate smart washing machines to make doing laundry easier. Their ability to connect to Wi-Fi sources reduces the possibility of nonstop clothes piling up and maintains a cleaner space. Refrigerators: The kitchen is the busiest area of a home. Investing in an advanced smart refrigerator can make cooking easier. Sleek new options can provide easy viewing of the contents inside. 3. Incorporate Smart Lighting for Ambience Make the most of smart tech by updating your lighting control systems. Going from room to room with your hands full will be much easier with smart technology that offers much-needed lighting. Unlike flipping a switch, motion sensors automatically switch on or off when movement is detected. However, smart lighting technology doesn't just stop at motion sensors. You can also invest in timers that control your lights. The best part is that timers help you manage energy usage , so there's minimal risk of your home ever being left in the dark. Innovative lighting technology now also includes dimmers and color-changing bulbs, which can help you add your own spark of creativity. As you work on organizing a functional layout, consider how art pieces and shared living spaces could use an instant refresh with color-changing lights or pot lights. 4. Smart Shades for Natural Lighting Improved smart technologies can be easily connected to your home and managed by voice or other features. Adding innovative window treatments is one of the most functional and visually appealing stylistic changes that can be made. Suzanne Donegan, an interior designer in Santa Monica, California, states: "Clients are starting to prioritize health in their homes and thinking about the areas in particular that impact overall wellness. As a health-informed design consultant, I encourage my clients to invest in smart window coverings in one area in particular — the bedroom. Science has shown the impact that daylight can have on our circadian rhythm. Adaptive smart window coverings help to regulate the body's internal clock, leading to more restorative sleep and more alertness and productivity during the day." Motorized window treatments offer functionality and style. The vast array of customizable designs and easier access to natural lighting help brighten your mood and enable your home to maintain a feeling of comfort thanks to the sun’s rays. Achieving a Beautiful, Functional Smart Home Thanks to many advancements in smart home technology, beauty and efficiency can coexist. Thoughtful design and planning mean your house can benefit from updated technology without the risk of clutter or bulky devices. Consider how you can make the most of your interior and exterior by thoughtfully incorporating the latest innovative smart technologies.

Have you ever stayed at a five-star hotel and wished you could bring the pampered feeling home? With thoughtful layering, rich textures and high-quality materials, your bedroom can become a personal sanctuary that rivals any luxury suite. Here’s how to transform your bed into the most indulgent, comfortable spot in your home. 1) Start With a Supportive Base If your mattress feels too firm or lacks cloud-like comfort, add a cushiony mattress topper for the perfect amount of plushness without sacrificing stability. Toppers are usually 2 to 4 inches thick , which is enough to change the feel of your mattress without overwhelming it. It gives you that just-right hotel firmness night after night while extending your mattress’s lifespan. If a mattress topper doesn’t seem to do the trick, keep in mind that mattresses need replacing after 7 to 10 years of use. If yours falls within that range, it may be time to get a new mattress before you add a mattress topper. 2) Use High-Quality Sheets Luxury starts with the sheets. Soft, breathable, temperature-regulating sheets instantly make your bed feel more inviting. A great option is high-quality jersey cotton because it feels smooth against your skin and holds up beautifully, wash after wash. Good sheets also regulate your body temperature overnight, helping you drift off to dreams sooner and stay asleep longer. 3) Layer Thoughtfully Layers add depth and comfort. Start with a fitted sheet and flat sheet, then add a lightweight quilt or blanket. Finish with a fluffy duvet folded neatly at the foot of the bed. This adds a polished look and gives you flexibility throughout the night, no matter the temperature. A well-layered bed always feels more substantial and inviting, with each layer serving function and style. 4) Stack Pillows for Luxe Comfort You’ll need several pillows to achieve that full, cozy hotel effect. Start by stacking two firm pillows against your headboard for structure. Place two softer pillows in front of those to cushion your head and neck while you sleep. Round it out with a couple of decorative pillows for a polished touch. Varying sizes, shapes and textures make the arrangement look intentional and refined. 5) Stick to White or Soft Neutrals Luxury hotels use white bedding to create a fresh, clean and inviting look. White also complements nearly any bedroom color palette. Mix in soft grays, creams or beige tones for a warm, relaxing vibe. Dress up your bed with decorative pillows or a colorful blanket to prevent it from looking too plain. 6) Steam or Iron Your Sheets Crisp, wrinkle-free bedding instantly makes your bed feel more elegant. After making the bed, run a handheld steamer across the top layer or iron your sheets before putting them on. This small step smooths creases and helps everything lay flat. Plus, it can banish lingering germs , leaving your bed cleaner. 7) Upgrade Your Bedspread A structured bedspread or coverlet ties the whole look together. Choose one with some weight to it so it drapes nicely and stays in place. Textured fabrics, subtle patterns or quilting can all add dimension without overwhelming the simplicity of your bed. A finished top layer makes the bed feel complete, not just thrown together. 8) Add Calming Scents Luxury hotels use subtle scents to create a calming atmosphere, and you can do the same. A lavender-infused pillow mist, scented linen spray or natural candle can completely change your mood. Soft, relaxing scents ease anxiety , making them ideal for bedtime. 9) Tuck Like a Pro Tight corners and smooth edges matter more than you’d think. Tucking in the sheets at the foot and along the sides of your bed keeps everything secure and adds to that hotel-level neatness. Use hospital corners or fold the extra fabric tightly under the mattress. 10) Add a Bench or Ottoman at the Foot of the Bed The little extras count. A bench, ottoman or upholstered stool at the foot of the bed mimics hotel suite styling and gives you a spot to sit or put down your robe or bag. Choose one with clean lines and soft upholstery to keep the look cohesive. 11) Play With Texture and Layers of Color To make your bed look more luxurious, think beyond your sheets. Mix textures with soft linen blankets, knitted throws and velvet accent pillows. You can stay within the same neutral color palette while varying the tones for depth. This creates a layered, dimensional look that feels more expensive without being busy. 12) Keep Everything Symmetrical Hotels often rely on symmetry to make their rooms look elegant and balanced. Match pillows on both sides of the bed, center your duvet nicely and place decorative cushions evenly. Symmetry creates a sense of order that immediately makes your bed look like it belongs in a five-star suite. Sleep in Luxury Every Night You don’t need to travel to experience hotel-level comfort. With thoughtful design and a few premium pieces, your bedroom can become your private five-star retreat.

Woodsy charm brings natural beauty from the great outdoors into your home. It prioritizes organic materials, natural fibers and warm tones to create a cozy and rustic atmosphere. One look at trending “forestcore” and “cabincore” decor-related hashtags on social media reveals chunky-knit fabrics, softer lighting, botanical motifs and more lived-in styles. Transforming your home into a snug and soothing escape will help you easily embrace seasonal change. Use these six tips for a charming woodsy interior that cultivates a more profound connection with nature and less stress. 1) Use Nature-Inspired Palettes Nature-based color palettes include rich browns, deep greens, gold and terracotta, which are hues inspired by autumnal energy and cabin life. Interior designer Roger Higgins says almost all earthy colors look visually stunning when merged , providing the perfect backdrop for bold floral motifs and other fresh, seasonal pigments. 2) Embrace Wood Accents Wood elements are a cornerstone of the woodsy charm aesthetic. From reclaimed wood furniture to exposed beams and open shelving, you can incorporate these accents into every room. Whereas painted furniture may chip or wear easily, stained wood maintains its beauty for decades without requiring much care. Consider staining wood decor for timeless appeal, sustainability and greater durability. 3) Layer Earthy Textiles A dense forest in autumn might have you thinking about wool throw blankets, linen upholstery, jute rugs and plaid. Each of these textile elements provides warmth and comfort as temperatures start to drop outside. Experiment with layering different fabrics and patterns to create depth and visual interest in each space. 4) Decorate With Foliage and Greenery You can’t achieve woodsy charm without foliage and greenery. Tree branches, dried floral arrangements, and low-maintenance plants will add a pop of earthy color and texture in your home. In particular, a pothos can live for 11 years under low-light conditions and weekly watering. The Chinese money plant also grows to only 8 or 12 inches for those who want to avoid overgrowth. 5) Incorporate Rustic Lighting Days become shorter with the start of fall, so play into a dimmer atmosphere with warmer lighting. Incorporate light fixtures made from wood, iron and glass, or string Edison bulbs overhead in an enclosed sunroom for a unique lighting experience. Wrought-iron sconces can also add rustic depth to your dining room, while candlelight and lanterns cast a softer mood for evening relaxation. 6) Add Natural Scents Fragrances that evoke the essence of autumn are the perfect final touch for infusing woodsy charm into your home. Opt for candles, diffusers, and aromatherapy in scents like cedar, apple, sandalwood, cinnamon and pine. Be mindful of what types of candles you burn, though. Many contain chemicals and harmful pollutants that trigger allergies and asthma , so choose those made from beeswax, soy and other natural ingredients. Creating a Cozy Autumn Retreat Woodsy charm is the ultimate cozy escape for any nature lover, especially when welcoming the cooler months. With a more rustic, organic-based design, you can create the perfect forest-inspired retreat.