Can You Make a Smart Home Stylish? 4 Designer-Approved Tips

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.

Gray has dominated home interiors for some time, providing the perfect backdrop for modern, cool designs. With more homeowners shifting toward cozier, colorful spaces, it seems gray has lost its flair and popularity — but is this hue completely out of style in 2025? It depends on how you use it. Is Gray Going Out of Style? Known for its versatility, gray pairs well with cool and warm tones, making it a safe choice for design enthusiasts. It's a classic shade that maintains importance in the neutral family, especially considering the subjectivity of color in a home. Yet, many experts are ready to break up with gray. Designer Peter Spalding welcomes the change, preferring to avoid playing it safe and encouraging homeowners to infuse themselves into their interiors. Jillian Hayward Schaible has also said warmer tones and natural elements add much-needed comfort, while she's noticed floral motifs replacing gray with pops of color. Warm neutrals, including browns and olives, are taking over. Gideon Mendelson and Stephanie Brown have both noted a longing for nature and earthy tones , from taupe to burnt umber and clay. In their opinion, these shades offer a grounding and timeless aesthetic, appearing in everything from marble to rugs and decor. Greens, blues and creams further accent neutral bases for eye-catching contrast. How to Use Gray in Your Home Today By all means, you should continue using gray in your home if you love it. However, there may be more contemporary ways to integrate it to keep your interior style fresh and comfortable. 1) Pair Gray With Warm Accents Cool gray undertones might feel stark without warm accents, which produce a more inviting environment. Brass or gold lamps, pendant light fixtures, terracotta planters and camel-toned leather seating will help you create balance and modernity in each room. You could also incorporate oak or walnut bookcases, shelves, frames and furniture. 2) Embrace Gray Cabinetry Gray cabinetry is still popular in kitchens and bathrooms, especially shaker cabinets with clean lines and smooth surfaces for stylish appeal. Pair dark charcoal gray with lighter countertops for energetic contrast and a minimalist aesthetic. You can warm the space with caramel-colored barstools and brass hardware. 3) Incorporate Natural Elements Natural elements in gray rooms create the earthiness currently trending in interior design. You can achieve an organic and calming atmosphere with houseplants, stone materials and reclaimed wood furnishings. Consider hanging rattan pendant shades over the kitchen island light fixtures or making your home more sustainable with bamboo accents. 4) Update With Bold Contrasts Gray's neutral quality allows you to infuse each space with bold, contrasting hues. One expert suggests blending gray with an equally cool-toned slate-blue for a calming and cohesive effect, while cobalt blue could add a splash of brightness. Mauve pink and olive green also play well into gray's undertones. 5) Layer Textures for Depth and Intrigue Gray can appear flat if you don't style it correctly. Velvety cushions, chunky knit throw blankets and smooth surfaces like glass, metal and polished stone can add rich depth and visual interest to the monochrome color. Additionally, you could include sheer curtains and woven materials to create dimension. Loving a Toned-Down Gray in Home Design Gray may not be as popular as it was, but it certainly isn't going away. There are several ways to embrace gray with today's earthier, warmer color trends. What's most important is creating an interior style that feels comfortable for you.

Old is the new new. While you might not be ready to start churning butter, colonial chic interiors can make you feel like you’ve modernized a centuries-old home. The effect is cozy, eye-catching and one of the current biggest trends for a host of reasons. Here’s what colonial chic is, the “why” behind the interest and how to nail it in your space. Colonial Chic: What It Is and Why People Love It Right Now As the name suggests, colonial chic is a modernization of the interior design of the 17th and 18th centuries. While it incorporates layers for visual interest, the style aims to make a room more functional than its inspiration. Homeowners make their houses elegant but not so stuffy that visitors don’t feel they can relax. Colonial chic has gotten more popular lately because recent events have made people more fond of looking back. The COVID-19 pandemic upended lives worldwide , and many spent more time on the internet remembering what life was once like. While some merely reminisced about going to the grocery store, several experts noted that increased nostalgia rates could be due to the past feeling simpler compared to modern times. Additionally, a large group may share similar feelings or memories associated with the decor, creating an instant community. Thus, because nearly everyone was at home more, craving the comfort of human connection, design styles that emulated it surged in popularity. However, the fad has blossomed past retro. Interiors ranging from 90s and early 2000s flair to antique and even ancient glam you can educate visitors and social media followers on are now popular. With Colonial chic, you can feel like you’ve explored the world in luxury without ever setting foot in a plane, train or automobile. Well, perhaps a horse-drawn carriage or wooden ship is more your style. Details You Need for a Colonial Chic Interior If you’re here, you love the look of early American architecture but want to bring it into the modern era. Here are the most important elements to incorporate and refresh. 1) Wood Accents Wood is a vital feature of colonial chic interiors. Whether you expose or add wood beams or strip and stain your cabinets, it helps your home quickly acquire that old-timey feel. However, avoid adding too many concrete and metal accents alongside the wood, as they can make a space feel more like a warehouse than a cozy shelter. Updating the Colonial style means knowing where to incorporate wood and where to dial it back. For example, if you want a dark wood bedframe, brightening up the ceilings and walls adds visual interest to the bedroom. 2) Patterns on Walls and Upholstery Wallpaper fans, rejoice — it’s making a comeback. Simplistic styles and clean lines will help a room feel more colonial, so look for narrow stripes and light florals. Try finding couch pillows that match a tone or pattern in the wallpaper to tie the room together. For upholstery, go with a light or dark solid color. Leather is also an excellent option. Leaving the intricacies to the accents offers a modern feel to interior design. 3) Light-Colored Crown Molding Light-toned, detailed crown molding and window casings are other notable features of Colonial chic homes. Again, keeping the color bright brings the space to the present, but these additions help it feel older. Chair rail molding halfway up the wall or less can have a similar effect. 4) Carefully Curated Decor Colonial decor may bring to mind cluttered apothecary tables and bookshelves stuffed with trinkets and loose pages, but making it chic requires some restraint. Rather than following a maximalist approach, make sure antique features are cohesive and have visual white space. For instance, old garage doors are popular choices for do-it-yourself dining room tables, headboards or entryway benches because they’re incredibly durable , so they’re ready for lots of use. During the process, stain the surface so it matches the hue of the other wood, like the ceiling beams or TV stand. Ensure the decor on them — candles, pillows, photos and more — is symmetrical so everything feels curated. On those bookshelves, include some gilded, old-style editions of your favorite books and a few beloved candles and trinkets, but keep it sparing. You may even choose to paint them a hue from the wallpaper or to match the couch if there are already enough wood accents. Like with patterns, less does a lot more in this style. 5) Rich Colors If you want to limit your wallpaper use, you can also use paint to update and antiquify your home. Colors like greyish blues, darker brick reds and blue-greens harken back to classic paints , while using them sparingly makes it feel like you’ve renovated an 18th-century build. For example, paint the dining room a darker color above the chair rail molding and white or a bright off-white below. Rugs, bedding and smaller decorations in the same hue help the wall shade pop. Get the Colonial Chic Interior of Your Old-Timey Dreams Linen dresses may not be your favorite, but linen curtains or sheets may be the features that transform your space from modern to Colonial chic. Try adding these must-have elements if you’re looking for a historic style with a contemporary twist. Older accents incorporated with a keen eye are the key to antique interior design that feels timely.

While designing your new home or revamping an existing one, you’ve probably heard about the kitchen triangle or kitchen work triangle concept. Although designers have used it for decades, some recognize the chance to update approaches to suit modern lifestyles better. What Is the Kitchen Triangle? The kitchen triangle centers on the stove, refrigerator and sink. The shape should not have through traffic or obstacles blocking the area. This idea became popular in the 1940s because it allowed people to take small steps and pivot to work with those essential appliances. Kitchens designed earlier featured freestanding ovens, sinks and cupboards, with the latter doubling as a workstation. The kitchen triangle supported modernization, and designers believed this layout enhanced homemakers’ productivity. Why Is the Kitchen Triangle Outdated? Although matriarchs once solely assumed cooking activities, they have become group efforts shared among other household residents and friends. The increased occupancy makes spaces designed with the kitchen triangle feel crowded. Plus, modern kitchens feature far more than those three appliances. You may use the microwave, conventional oven and air fryers when making meals today, walking between them in an area not resembling a particular shape. Part of the reason is that many homes have open-plan layouts. Relatedly, families often cook and serve dishes in the same room, whereas the residences of decades ago had dedicated dining areas. Additionally, designers who used the kitchen triangle concept made the shape occupy a 13-26 foot perimeter , which overly limits options for diverse spaces. Appliances such as dual ovens and double-door fridges expand preparation and storage opportunities, but the triangular placement and suggested measurements don’t fit their spacious sizes. Assessing Updated Designs With the kitchen triangle seen as a less-than-ideal option, what should you discuss in upcoming design conversations? 1. Prioritizing Adjustability and Flexibility Designers who recommended the kitchen triangle worked with a relatively limited assortment of appliances and brands. The fewer options made it easier to envision layouts and imagine how people would use these spaces over time. However, many of today’s manufacturers emphasize more choices by offering modular appliances that people can rearrange to fit their needs. Movable carts add storage and fit individual workflows , allowing homeowners to customize their kitchen. Similarly, adjustable shelves accommodate equipment of various heights. 2. Integrating Dedicated Storage Spaces Many homes with kitchen-triangle designs had root cellars, where households stored produce in preparation for canning. They also kept dry goods there, helping them store essentials for better resilience during economic fluctuations. Although most modern homes lack cellars, occupants still want handy places to store shelf-stable goods. Pantry organizer cabinets meet that need. Think of them as your clothing wardrobe, but for food. This stand-alone feature has shelves and doors, letting you group contents by date, type or other intuitive categories. Many households appreciate the convenience, especially because Americans buy groceries weekly on average. 3. Creating Specific Zones Because cooking frequently involves multiple parties, some newer layouts feature zone-based designs catering to those simultaneously working on tasks. Then, they have ample space for productivity and don’t get in each other’s way. One designer mentioned he often creates two- sink configurations — one for prepping and another for cleaning up later. Designing multipurpose zones or ones that overlap suits smaller kitchens and ensures everyone can access amenities such as sinks. Placement also makes a difference, including designating the cleanup area beneath a window, which allows people to look out at nature and makes the task more engaging. 4. Emphasizing Purposeful Spaces Another reason for the kitchen triangle falling out of favor is that designers view it as overly restrictive. Even those who still use the triangular layouts recommend not focusing on them at the expense of other necessities. One designer enjoys equally prioritizing functionality and appearance , which often makes triangles and zones form naturally. Talk to your design expert about how you plan to use the kitchen while suggesting specific strategies to achieve goals and align with long-term enjoyment. Getting a Kitchen You’ll Love Despite learning about the decreasing popularity of the kitchen triangle, you may decide it suits your needs. In any case, use these suggestions to have valuable conversations with professionals and anticipate having a beautiful, functional space.

If you're designing or renovating your home, these research‑backed tips can help raise your property’s value and make your space more enjoyable. 1) Embrace Organic Modern Design Designing your interiors with organic modern elements like natural wood, stone surfaces, warm textures and soapstone countertops can add up to 3.7% to your home’s value. This style has become a top choice for homeowners and buyers alike because it blends the clean simplicity of modern design with the warmth and richness of natural materials. The look is sleek but never sterile — think oak cabinetry, travertine tile, linen drapes and matte black or aged brass fixtures. These materials elevate your home’s aesthetic and create a calm, inviting atmosphere that feels both stylish and livable. Organic modern design works beautifully across all rooms. In the kitchen, soapstone counters and wood accents feel high-end without being flashy. In living spaces, incorporating cozy textiles and neutral tones can soften hard edges and add depth. Even small details like cane furniture, hand-thrown ceramics or clay-toned paint can contribute to the overall harmony of the space. 2) Elevate the Kitchen With Open Plans and Quality Features Kitchens are a top priority for buyers, and even small upgrades can go a long way. Visual appeal can be just as important as function when it comes to adding value. In fact, 42% of homeowners renovate their kitchen simply because they don’t like how it looks. Consider choosing timeless materials like quartz countertops and adding under-cabinet lighting for both beauty and practicality. A fresh coat of paint or new backsplash can also give the space a completely refreshed feel without a full remodel. 3) Upgrade the Entryways to the Home A striking front door delivers strong curb appeal. Homes with a painted‑black front door saw offers averaging $6,449 more , and replacing an entry door with a steel model yields up to 188% resale return. Additionally, updating the garage door can bring a return of nearly 200%. Since they account for up to 40% of a home’s facade, they are a key detail in creating strong curb appeal. Choosing a modern, well-finished door that matches your home's style can instantly boost curb appeal and create a more cohesive, polished look. These upgrades create an immediate sense of quality and care, which influences buyers' perceptions of the rest of the home. Plus, they’re relatively low-cost compared to other renovations, making them a smart and efficient way to boost value. 4) Finish or Add Livable Space Creating more usable square footage is always a smart move. If you have an unfinished basement, consider transforming it into a cozy family room, guest suite or entertainment space. Adding flooring, drywall and good lighting can turn a blank area into a valuable extension of your home. In today’s work-from-home world, a dedicated office space is high on many buyers’ wish lists. If you don’t have a spare room, carve out a quiet corner in a bedroom, hallway nook or even under the stairs. Whether it’s a basement retreat or a small home office, creating functional, finished space makes your home feel bigger, more versatile and more appealing to future buyers. 5) Use Thoughtful Storage and Built‑Ins Smart storage solutions help your home feel organized, spacious and high-end. Start by maximizing closets with double rods, shelving or drawer systems to make the most of every inch. In living areas, built-in shelves or window seats with hidden storage offer both function and charm. Custom closet upgrades are especially worthwhile — many homeowners recover more than 80% of the cost when it’s time to sell. It’s a feature buyers notice and appreciate, especially when it’s both practical and beautifully designed. Consider storage in unexpected places too, like a pull-out pantry in the kitchen, a mudroom bench with hooks or under-stair cabinets. These thoughtful details make everyday life easier and show buyers that the home has been well-designed. 6) Embrace Paint Updates and Minor Bathroom Changes Fresh paint is one of the simplest ways to give your home an instant facelift. Stick to light, neutral colors like soft beige, warm gray or creamy white to create a clean, inviting feel that appeals to a wide range of buyers. Don’t forget trim and ceilings — crisp, freshly painted details make the whole space feel more polished. In the bathroom, small upgrades can make a big difference. Replacing outdated faucets, showerheads and cabinet hardware with modern finishes like brushed nickel or matte black can refresh the space without a full remodel. Consider re-grouting tiles, swapping out an old mirror for a framed one or installing open shelves for added function and charm. Smart Design, Strong Value Each design tip does more than elevate your home’s style — it adds real, measurable value. Small changes like a black front door or flowering shrubs can bring thousands more at resale. Bigger updates like a kitchen refresh or finished basement offer a powerful return on investment. The key is thoughtful design, quality materials and upgrades that boost both function and appeal. When you design smart, your home works harder for you today and in the future.

Pistachio green is making waves in 2025 home design trends, particularly for spring and summer, thanks to its soft, earthy tone and calming energy. The softer look embraces the earthy tones of this somewhat muted pastel color. People love it year-round for the tranquil effect and fresh, natural feel. The Popularity of Pistachio Green Green is the second most popular color in various surveys, making its trendiness in home design circles unsurprising. While blue still ranks number one, studies show 14% of people prefer green over any other option. Those wanting a more current look will find that pistachio green helps center them and add tranquility to any space. Pistachio green pairs with most aesthetics, giving you many options to add the hue to your living space. Here are some creative ways to incorporate the shade. 1. Paint the Walls If your rooms could use a fresh coat of paint, consider adding pistachio green to an accent wall or even an entire space. The shade is soft enough to be neutral but adds personality to your home. It pairs well with white, natural woods, cream and other earthy tones. Its calming nature makes it ideal for bathrooms, but you can add it to any space you wish to unwind. 2. Select Plants and Greenery Real plants complement pistachio green by enhancing its natural feel. Tradescantia species have green and white striped leaves that mimic a pistachio green hue and are popular for houseplants. If flowers in a vase are more your vibe, select Benary's Giant Lime zinnias or dried hydrangeas. Carnations, roses and dried florals can also be dyed to match your color preference. 3. Layer Green With Pastels Greens help balance emotions and add calm without being drab. If using the shade in a reading nook, sunroom or nursery, you could pair it with dusty rose or sky blue. Blue can also be calming, so combining complementary colors adds even more serenity to your space. Drape a pistachio green blanket over the back of a couch and pair it with dusty rose throw pillows to brighten the space while maintaining a muted tone. Purchase furniture in pistachio green and place it against a single sky blue accent wall. Find ways to work in multiple colors for added interest. 4. Purchase New Bedding A simple way to add hushed stillness to a bedroom is by placing a pistachio green comforter or quilt on your bed. Add a few throw pillows in earthy tones to pull out the shade and reconnect with nature. The color creates a spa-like feel and turns your bedroom into a restful retreat. 5. Choose Soft Materials When purchasing pistachio-colored items for your home, pay attention to the texture of anything that might touch your skin. Embrace styles like hygge, which emphasize soft, natural materials. Selecting a hyper-soft blanket or plush throw rug can enhance the serenity of the space , pulling in color and functionality. 6. Go Retro The timeless charm of pistachio green recognizes past designers without feeling outdated. This hue makes a comeback every so often in style circles, and you can easily embrace the nostalgic appeal of the 1950s midcentury modern period or the 1970s groovy green design trends while still staying current. Add a few retro touches from secondhand store treasure hunts for a more inspired look that meets your personal style. 7. Add Art Wall hangings are one of the easiest ways to add current design trends without spending much money. Art lending libraries allow patrons to check out paintings and decor for a while, allowing them to mix up their style without committing long-term. If you have artistic skills, you can also add a mural or paint something to place on the wall. Add small accents, such as picture frames or vases in pistachio green. Changing minor decor is a small way to test the color in your space. Another idea is to paint any of your existing accessories in this popular shade to pull in current color choices. Calmness as a Lifestyle Incorporating pistachio green into your home may lead to adopting other healthier stress management habits. Your house should be an escape from the trials of everyday life. The colors and selections matter if you want to create a restful oasis.

Tuxedo kitchens are undeniably captivating. The bold contrast between light upper cabinets and dark lower cabinets makes an instant statement. Whether you lean minimalist or love a touch of drama, this high-contrast look can instantly elevate your space. While this two-tone trend is typically associated with a fancy black-tie affair, there are several creative ways to implement it and make it your own. What Is a Tuxedo Kitchen? A tuxedo kitchen involves high-contrast color schemes, similar to the black and white formal attire that inspires its name. The lower cabinets are typically dark, while the upper ones are white. While it’s high-contrast, this style is also about balance. The darker base anchors the space, while the lighter upper cabinets make it feel more open and airy. This creates visual interest without overwhelming the room. The style is becoming a favorite among interior design professionals and homeowners. Tuxedo kitchens are trending because many homeowners arestepping away from the all-white look and leaning into a stylish twist while maintaining a broad appeal. The design is incredibly versatile, adapting easily to suit different aesthetics. As such, it’s the perfect way to play with color and texture. Creative Ways to Achieve a Tuxedo Kitchen The beauty of the tuxedo kitchen design is its flexibility. There are so many ways to make this look your own. Consider the following stylish takes for your next remodel. 1. Choose the Right Color Combination When people think of tuxedo designs, the first colors that come to mind are black and white. However, you can choose any color pairing that suits your space and personality. Many homeowners start with cream or white for the upper cabinets because these tones lighten up the room. For the lower cabinets, tuxedo kitchens make it easier to experiment with deeper tones. Even though dark cabinets work better in large spaces , you can use these colors in any size tuxedo kitchen since the balanced contrast keeps the space from feeling too heavy. If you want to go with the classic look, you can always go with black and white. For something more contemporary, try navy below and warm white up top. For a warmer feel, you can also use deep forest green or espresso brown to contrast with creamy upper cabinets. 2. Accentuate with Stylish Hardware Hardware can create a whole new look for your kitchen — they are the jewelry that pulls the entire outfit together. Because the tuxedo style already leans on bold contrasts, you can use knobs and pulls to either enhance the drama or add a touch of warmth and softness. Matte black hardware is a natural choice for tuxedo kitchens with a modern edge, especially if you stick with a black-and-white palette. Brushed nickel or stainless steel also offers a sleek look, while brass or champagne introduces a pop of luxury. 3. Use Lighting to Elevate the Look Lighting highlights contrast and character. Pendant lights over islands draw attention to the heart of the kitchen and create a striking focal point. You could also match the finish of your fixtures to your hardware, whether they’re in matte black, brass or mixed metals. Want to warm up the space? Opt for fixtures with soft, ambient tones or glass shades to evenly diffuse light. Remember under-cabinet lighting, too. It brightens the lower, dark cabinets, making the kitchen feel more balanced and functional. 4. Remember Flooring and Backsplash Flooring and backsplash can soften or amplify the visual impact of this high-contrast kitchen design. For flooring, lighter wood tones or warm-toned tiles can ground darker cabinetry without making the space feel heavy. Herringbone or chevron patterns add movement, while large-format tiles lend a modern vibe. For a true throwback moment, consider a black-and-white checkered floor. For the backsplash, you can add texture, color or pattern to break up the bold cabinet contrast. Tile remains a top choice, and 68% of homeowners opt for rectangular shapes. Subway tiles are also staples, but more people are experimenting with horizontal or vertical stacks, geometric patterns, and mosaics. 5. Incorporate Open Shelving or Glass Fronts Since tuxedo kitchens offer bold cabinet contrast, you can soften the look by adding open shelving or glass-front cabinets. These elements break up large blocks of solid color and offer a space to showcase your favorite dishware, cookbooks and greenery. In modern home design, aesthetics are crucial, but 83% of design professionals say storage was a top priority for kitchens in 2024. Glass-front upper cabinets give you the best of both worlds — they are closed storage that still feels light and open. Meanwhile, natural wood or metal-finished open shelving can provide easy access to everyday items while doubling as a decorative feature. Bring Contrast and Character Into Your Kitchen Tuxedo kitchens offer the perfect balance between timeless and trend-forward design. They also give you the room to get creative and express your style. With the right combination of elements, you can create a personalized and dreamy cooking space.

A white box living room is more than a boring white area — it’s a blank canvas, an opportunity to express yourself at a cost that suits your budget. A few creative touches can make your living room feel more alive and personal. You can turn your white box living space into a cozy, character-filled space that reflects you without knocking down walls or splurging on designer furniture. Here’s how to effortlessly add personality. 1. Add Color with Paint or Wallpaper While white and neutral interiors can feel clean and airy, they can also feel cold, unfurnished and blank. A change in color through paint or wallpaper can instantly transform your white box living room. Adding colors can make a room feel bigger or smaller, brighter or duller, and evoke emotions. Some studies reveal that color psychology influences how one feels and behaves. Colors like red are associated with warmth, while shades of blue are cool and evoke calm. Your choice of color is dependent on what resonates with you. You can also choose an accent wall and paint or add colorful wallpaper to it to create a focal point. 2. Choose Statement Furniture Statement furniture is visually striking and deeply personal because it reflects your personality and stands out, showcasing who you are. Choose one or two visual standout pieces. Look for cost-effective, functional pieces that provide comfort while resonating with your style. Your statement furniture is the anchor piece that sets the mood in the room. If your persona is bold and outgoing, choose vibrant-colored sofas or a sculptural armchair that serves as a conversation starter. If you’re more reserved, select furniture that represents order, like a table with sleek lines or low-slung sofas that create a grounded and stable feeling. 3. Layer with Textiles Textiles are key to transforming a white space because they bring softness, depth and warmth. However, when choosing fabrics, consider their environmental impact. Some textiles made from plant or animal fiber are biodegradable , while others are manufactured and may not degrade. Look for embroidery on colorful throw pillows, cozy blankets and area rugs to create a layered look that adds depth to the room. Through color, pattern, texture and depth, you can use fabrics to create a stylish, functional and comfortable home that shows off your personality. 4. Experiment with Fun Trends Your living room should reflect you, but exploring popular trends can inspire you with new ideas and spark your creativity. Dopamine decor: This trend involves bright colors, funky patterns and other maximalist design choices. It’s meant to trigger your brain’s dopamine neurotransmitter , making you feel good about yourself and your house. Wooden flooring: Sustainable home design is becoming increasingly popular, and the key to long-lasting elegance is choosing materials that won’t need frequent replacement. Compared to solid wood flooring, engineered hardwood is more durable and moisture-resistant , giving you the effortless look of hardwood in a more sustainable form. Greenery: Choose affordable indoor plants and place them in natural light to improve air quality, boost your overall well-being and reduce stress. Plants also offer therapeutic benefits by giving you a sense of purpose, which reduces isolation and depression. Reworked items: If you have unused items like old buttons, clothes or empty jars, you can rework them to give them a second life. Sew mismatched buttons on a throw pillow or plant your greenery in empty jars. Turn Your White Box Living Room into a Personalized Retreat Your home should be your safe place and reflect your personality and style. Look at your white box living room as an opportunity to showcase who you are while saving the environment, keeping up with the latest trends and not spending a fortune. Small, thoughtful changes can turn your space into something expressive, inviting and truly yours. You can make changes that are budget-friendly and transform your living experience.