I’ll admit it — Morris & Co. is not the first name that comes to mind when I think of Livingetc. Its trailing botanicals, intricate repeats and deep 19th-century roots can feel a long way from the cleaner, more contemporary spaces we usually gravitate toward. But that is precisely what makes it interesting. In a room filled with sleek silhouettes and newer pieces, a little historical weight can be the thing that stops everything from feeling too generic.

Founded in 1861, Morris & Co. grew from William Morris’s rebellion against the conformity of industrial production and his belief in the value of craftsmanship. The brand’s new Design Rebel Edit brings that radical side of its history back into focus, presenting its iconic patterns as expressions of creativity rather than simply traditional decoration. It's a useful reminder that these designs were never intended to be timid.

Its ongoing collaborations also prove how adaptable the archive can be. The latest Habitat x Morris & Co. collection places familiar motifs across tableware, lighting and textiles, making them easier to introduce in smaller doses. Meanwhile, the latest Ruggable x Morris & Co. designs have an extraordinary story behind them — 26 unfinished sketches discovered in the archives of The Huntington Library in California were completed and repainted by hand in Morris & Co.’s London studio, before being translated into washable rugs for modern life. Then there is House of Hackney’s Nature of Morris collection, which embraces the drama of the patterns and pushes them somewhere much bolder and more theatrical.

Below, I have gathered my favorite Morris & Co. collaborations and pieces, along with my stylist’s take on how to make each one feel fresh, personal and unmistakably Livingetc.

Habitat x Morris & Co.

As an interior stylist for Design Lab by Livingetc, my approach would be to style Morris & Co. through contrast. Place a richly patterned rug beneath a low, streamlined sofa, pair a floral cushion with crisp linen upholstery or introduce one patterned lampshade beside contemporary art and sculptural lighting. The trick is not to make Morris look modern — it is to give it modern company.

Ruggable x Morris & Co.

If you are exploring how to bring traditional style into a modern home, start with one confident piece and allow some breathing room around it. I would avoid matching the wallpaper, curtains and cushions, as that can quickly pull the room toward period pastiche. Instead, choose one color from the pattern, perhaps an inky blue, tobacco brown or acidic green, and repeat it once elsewhere in a cleaner, block-colored form.

Next x Morris & Co.

An antique side table or timeworn timber cabinet can also help bridge the two worlds, making the Morris pattern feel like part of a room that has evolved rather than something newly added. There may even be benefits beyond appearance — if that interests you, we have explored how antiques can make your home healthier, too.

Swyft x Morris & Co.

If I were upholstering a sofa or armchair in a Morris & Co. pattern, I would treat the print as the room’s color palette rather than its theme. Ground it with a block-color rug taken from the pattern’s quietest shade, rather than its most obvious flower or leaf, then pick up one of the smallest, more unexpected accents in a cushion or lamp. Changing the material each time is important — a dense wool rug, a mohair cushion and a glossy lacquer or brushed-metal table will feel connected through color, but never overly coordinated. I would also introduce something with a very precise, architectural silhouette nearby, such as a low chrome coffee table, to give the traditional upholstery a sharper contemporary counterpoint.

The Huntington x Morris & Co.

With Morris & Co. wallpaper, I would avoid treating it as a decorative feature added to an otherwise unrelated room. Instead, let it become part of the architecture by wrapping a smaller space completely or continuing it inside shelving or behind built-in joinery. Paint the skirting boards, doors and architraves in the wallpaper’s background color rather than default white, so the pattern feels immersive and intentional rather than nostalgic. Then interrupt its organic florals with something distinctly precise, perhaps a stainless-steel shelf, a smoked-glass table or one oversized piece of abstract art. That tension between intricate pattern and a clean, almost industrial element is what brings it firmly into the present.

One well-placed Morris & Co. piece can give a contemporary room something new furniture alone rarely can — history, tension and a real point of view. For more stylist-led ideas and the latest design discoveries, subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.

Don't pick up your phone in the first hour of waking up, start your day with a little movement to get the blood flowing, and take a moment to pause before your day and work life begin. These are all things we're told to do over and over again — a more intentional, analog morning routine is the basis of a healthier lifestyle. And over the course of this year, I learned that these intentional practices can even translate to moments as small as making your daily cup of joe.

For instance, investing in a proper coffee corner and a quality espresso machine gives you the space and means to focus on the craft of coffee-making and slowing down in the morning. Or you could go one step further and swap your machine for a manual maker, like the Flair 58 Plus 2 machine, for a truly hands-on analog moment. However, it's all so much easier said than done, right? We all want to be the person who wakes up with time to spare and a minute to pause, but consistency is the only way to breed true routine change (yes, even when it comes to coffee making). So, it was time to practice what I preach.

Admittedly, I'm loyal to my semi-automatic espresso machine, but the milk steamer isn't the best. So, I added the Flair Stovetop Wizard milk steamer to my routine as a way to upgrade my beverage, practice my technique, and carve out a dedicated moment to enjoy my coffee in the morning. Here's every thought I had while trying the device and changing up my practice. Is it worth the switch? Let's discuss.

First Impressions While Adding the Wizard to My Routine

Sleek coffee bar ideas and analog coffee are having a moment in design. Our favorite homeware brands are incorporating chrome espresso cups and saucers in their latest launches, and coffee makers are becoming increasingly stylized. But what does a more intentional coffee routine mean?

Well, for starters, it's about investing in the process — incorporating quality appliances and coffee machine accessories that will yield the best results. And typically, these kinds of appliances take time to learn and get used to; hence the slowing down of it all. Thankfully, the Wizard milk steamer, though more hands-on than a semi-automatic steaming wand, was relatively easy to learn and get used to.

You have to attach a few parts, but the instruction manual is clear. Once it's all set up, you simply fill the container with water and set it on the stove to heat up (it works with basically any stove type). Then, when the pressure gauge shows that it's in the steaming range, you put your milk jug under the wand, turn on the knob, and begin practicing your milk frothing techniques.

Plus, like Flair's other machines, the Wizard steamer is a good-looking piece. The matte black body, curved neck, and wooden handle have an old-school aesthetic that feels elevated and luxurious to use. If we are going to spend more time brewing, why not spend that time with the best designs as well?

The Change to Using the Device Daily

Though waiting for the milk to heat up to a steaming temperature takes a few minutes, I found the process soothing. I had enough time to get started on a little breakfast while I waited. Then my espresso shot was ready to be turned into a latte just as I was ready to sit down and enjoy the morning. This kind of routine is exactly what makes these analog coffee products so rewarding — your time becomes intentional.

And a slow morning wellness routine is easier to build when you start small. Changing little habits like preparing your latte milk in a quality, analog steamer while you brew your espresso shot, make breakfast, or plan your day is like taking a small breath. I found that a little more hands-on purpose at the beginning of the day makes for a more productive start. Perhaps a manual coffee grinder would be the next step to upgrade your coffee-making routine.

All in all, it's an easy device to use as well. It's not as simple as pushing a button on an electric milk frother, but the quality of milk is worth whatever extra effort the Flair Wizard requires.

Is the Flair Wizard Stovetop Steamer Worth Investing In?

It was interesting to add an extra coffee appliance to the lineup, especially when my espresso machine (the KitchenAid Semi-Automatic) already has a steaming wand. But if you're truly in pursuit of upgrading your coffee routine, then after you've experimented with the basics, adding things like the Flair Wizard to your process helps elevate the experience. So, yes, for the true coffee connoisseur, the Flair Wizard stovetop steamer is worth the investment.

It might not be something you use every day, especially if you have a busy morning, but it's nice to bring out when you want to slow down and be a bit more analog. And if that's intriguing to you, then there are plenty of other analog coffee products on the market. Below are a few of my current favorites.

Other Analog Coffee Devices

If there is one thing that every coffee nook should have, it's a sense of purpose. These spaces should be tailored to your personal morning routine and how you want to start the day. Adding the Flair Wizard to my lineup has been a wake-up call for bringing intention back to my morning.

For more inspiration like this, be sure to subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.

I know what you're thinking, it's still only September. But the truth is Christmas is less than 100 days away, and decorations are already in stores, so if you decide to bury your head in the sand, you're simply going to miss the best things — starting with this Scalloped Seagrass Tree Skirt from John Lewis.

An oft-overlooked element when decorating a Christmas tree, you could think of a tree skirt the same way you would a rug in a room; it's the grounding detail that pulls the design together. That's why a natural, neutral option like this woven seagrass style works so well, while the subtle scalloped silhouette gives it just the right amount of interest to feel considered without detracting from your tree decorations.

Plus, I feel like tree skirts are a good piece to buy early when it comes to Christmas decorating ideas, particularly when you choose a style like this that doesn't lean traditionally 'Christmas', because who said you can't disguise an indoor pot behind a skirt year-round? Not me.

While tree skirts didn't start as an aesthetic thing — it was originally designed to catch the dripping wax from candles on the tree back in the 19th-century — today, they come in all different shapes, sizes, and materials, which means you can really make a statement depending on what you choose.

That's where I think natural materials like this style work best; they either complement a more pared-back, Scandi-style or ground glossier ornaments, metallic tinsels, and loud, kitschy decorations.

But John Lewis' style isn't the only way to do it. Below, I've found six other woven, organic-feeling tree skirts that will set the tone of your tree this Christmas (and beyond if you so feel).

Can't find a tree skirt you really like? Last year, we saw Christmas trees in pots in loads of the coolest peoples houses, so perhaps that is more the approach for you?

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I was never a 'horse girl' myself, but I grew up with a sister who was a passionate equestrian, and then I moved 'out west' (to Colorado) for university — does that make me horse-girl adjacent? Either way, I love a horse motif or subtle western influence when it comes to interiors. When it's done well, it reads as an elevated rustic style, with a sense of free-spiritedness. And the Felix Rug from the new Anthropologie x Ruggable collection is exactly that, done very well.

Overall, the new drop from Anthropologie x Ruggable has a modern heritage, folk-inspired vibe (which is not surprising from Anthropologie) — think folksy-inspired borders, floral prints, and natural motifs. In this regard, the Felix Rug feels like both a perfect fit and a bit of an outlier: it has an obvious earthy colorway and, of course, the horse motifs, but the overall style is more contemporary and dynamic for schemes beyond your typical cottage-core aesthetic.

The solid emerald green base creates a powerful color statement (and opting for a high-saturation underfoot is very 2027-coded when it comes to rug trends). But it's then balanced by the faded, running horse motif dotted across the piece. It's fashionable, but soft and very easy to style. In fact, it wouldn't look out of place on your wall as a work of art.

The best way to do Western decor or horse motifs in your decorating scheme (it is the year of the horse, in case you forgot) is to go for a subtle and stylized look. Think embroidered pillows, artwork, and yes, even pieces like this rug.

But again, the magic of a rug like this is that it doesn't have to stick to a certain aesthetic. It sits somewhere between a patterned rug and a solid-color rug. And though bold, the green creates a nice grounding base that works in a range of schemes and rooms. But with Ruggable's washable design, I'd love to see this piece styled in a high-traffic area like a living room or as a rug underneath a dining table.

There are plenty of other cozy, colorful floor coverings throughout the rest of the collaboration, too — and they are right in line with some of my favorite trends happening today. Deep burgundy colorways, modern plaid prints, and even a tapestry-esque mural print; below are six more rugs worth checking out.

Ruggable has been hard at work cooking up new collaborations — I still have the Ruggable x Morris & Co. collection on my mind. But nothing's wrong with having more stylish rugs to peruse!

For more inspiration like this and to stay up-to-date on the latest and greatest, be sure to subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.

Have you ever seen something and immediately thought, 'That's completely ridiculous, I have to have it'? A tiny mother-of-pearl caviar spoon, perhaps. Or a modernist, color-blocked nut-cracking tool.

There's a special kind of joy that these entirely unnecessary but extremely endearing pieces evoke. When the modern kitchen is so dominated by functionality, with every appliance claiming to be a life-changing 8-in-1 tool, there's a kind of quiet rebellion in something that serves one sole (preferably hyper-niche) function. You can keep your all-in-one microwave air fryer hybrids; I'd much rather have an Italian, stainless steel pasta measurer, thank you very much.

Some may write these pieces off as silly or frivolous, but those just happen to be two of my favorite descriptors. Plus, if using your ceramic garlic grater at the end of a hard day brings a smile to your face, doesn't that alone make it worthwhile?

These products may not change your life; you may not even use them more than four times a year, but for some of us, owning something incredibly and undeniably design-y is reason enough to add it to your collection. Plus, you might just find yourself surprised by how much use you actually get from your professional truffle shaver. Just saying...

It won't be long until the festive season rolls around again, and these items would make the perfect gift for the design lovers in your life. Or to yourself- we won't judge.

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Dear Catherine,

Inspired by your brief, I’ve curated a personalised edit of bookcases and shelving that I think would work beautifully in your living room.

As you haven’t mentioned any specific dimensions, I’ve included a mix of different sizes and shapes, so you have a few options to consider depending on the space you have available. I’ve particularly focused on pieces in solid or natural wood, as I think the warmth and timelessness of the material work really well with the minimalist, modern and Scandinavian feel you’re after. I’ve also included a couple of more contemporary options if you’d like to bring a slightly different element into the room.

If you'd like a little more support pulling everything together, take a look at Style, our room design service at Design Lab By Livingetc. We'd have a 45-minute one-to-one call to discuss your space, and afterwards I'd put together a full moodboard for your space, along with tailored product recommendations and a clear design direction.

I hope you enjoy exploring your curated edit, and I'd love to hear which pieces you feel most drawn to.

Best wishes,

Iokasti

Design enthusiasts are no stranger to the beautiful designs brought to life by these two beloved brands. Swyft's plush sofas with structured silhouettes paired with Morris & Co.'s enchanting patterns are a duo to be reckoned with.

And they recently collaborated again, adding three heritage prints from the archives. These rich patterns transform Swyft x Morris & Co. sofas into maximalist anchor pieces that bring a sense of homeliness to hyper-modern interiors lacking warmth.

So, if you're looking for a sofa to cozy up your living room with character, these designs might do just the trick.

Alternative Patterned Sofas to Shop

For Swyft x Morris & Co. fans, the brands are launching four more prints very soon. To shop the next release first, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter to stay up to date on this launch and more design news.

I know a rug is a big decision that can make or break a room, so going bold can be risky. That said, I can't help but naturally gravitate toward saturated shades and bolder prints. A larger part of me favors a solid-sofa/fun-rug pairing over a safer, more neutral route. Feel the same way? Well, a recent scroll through Florida design duo MONIOMI Design's maximalist Miami home provided me with bountiful inspiration, and I can't get the bright green rug from its living room out of my mind.

To cut to the chase, it's from Nordic Knots. And there are a few reasons why it leaves quite an impression. Firstly, it taps into the latest rug trends, which are getting much more characterful. Borders, artisanal prints, and bold hues are becoming the signs of a thoughtfully curated space. But not only that: the punchy green of this bordered rug is also having a moment in design right now. No wonder this rug is ticking all my boxes.

So, if you are looking for a refresh underfoot, now is the time to take a risk. Though this piece was styled in a more maximalist space, a pop of color can work in a range of schemes. It's more about adding that textile that elevates the room, rounds out the color scheme, and, of course, feels fabulously soft.

If I'm being honest, the color of this rug immediately sold me. Green color trends are going bold this year. We are trading dull olives for a more vibrant variation — that subtle, zingy yellow undertone brings instant warmth. And it still feels grounded, because no matter what shade of green you decorate with, it will always be the most prominent nature-inspired color.

For instance, even in this maximalist, tropical-designed living room, the bold rug sits harmoniously. The teal and green in the rug are reflected elsewhere in the room, and everything feels balanced — nothing is shouting too loudly for attention. And that's a wonderful example of how even bold rugs can be a natural addition to a space. Plus, the wreath motif is said to be inspired by the history of garden design — yet another nod to grounded, yet fashionable design.

So, have I passed on my love for this rug yet? I know a rug can be a big-ticket item, so to make sure you're investing in the right one for your space, I've sourced several similar styles in a range of prices and patterns. Whether it's the color scheme or the whimsical border you like, below are some stylish alternative options.

I have to say, border rugs have really grown on me this year — they are such an easy way to add a little color and pattern without getting stuck with something that may overwhelm your room. And so far, the Color of the Year announcements seem to be predicting blue and green as some of the most favored interior colors going into 2027.

For more inspiration like this, be sure to subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.

Would you believe that Christmas preparation has already begun this year? Halloween hasn't passed yet, but advent calendars are already on the shelves. And if it's anything like last year, then they'll be sold out long before winter begins.

So, I am going to keep track of the launches worth your time this season so you can treat your home to a beautifully curated home fragrance advent calendar while they're still up for grabs. And although they're meant to make your home smell like Christmas, I appreciate the more evergreen fragrances looped into these bundles that will set your home up for the rest of the new year.

Without further ado, here are the sets everyone's talking about, and which one suits your vibe best. Plus, if you're not keen on an entire calendar, we've included some honorable mentions for a little treat nonetheless.

Bookmark this page so you don't miss advent calendars that still haven't hit shelves yet this year. And sign up for the Livingetc newsletter to keep up with the best launches in the lead-up to this festive season.

In many ways, September is the most exciting time of the year for design. New collections are launched, styling gets more layered, and the cooler weather brings our attention back inside and towards our interiors. If yours feel slightly neglected, oh do I have the thing for you: the latest instalment of The Fifty, my quarterly round-up of the newest, coolest, and sometimes quirkiest things to buy for your home for the season ahead.

You can expect lots of lamps, cozy layers for the floor, sofa, and bed, scents, side tables, and even stylish snacks (they're a thing — trust me). These are the sort of pieces that will make staying inside for so many more hours of the day feel like a pleasure, not punishment. I promise.

Particular standouts include the Handcarved Wooden Tiger Side Table from Graham & Green (characterful, but still cool), the OKA Brammell Candle Holder with its old-world charm, and Anthropologie's Estella Cotton Woven Throw Blanket, which I'd personally hang on my wall. There's KitchenAid's new Luminaire mixer, too, and a piece from Pierce & Ward's collaboration with West Elm, so if you're on the hunt for a gift (for someone else or yourself), you've come to the very best place.

The US Open may have just drawn to a close, but that doesn't mean tennis season is over. In fact, the just-launched collaboration between tennis icon Venus Williams and Crate & Barrel means you can embrace that sporty spirit year-round. And that you absolutely should.

I'll be honest, a ball sport becoming the next hottest interior design trend wasn't on my bingo card for 2026, but having browsed this collection, I'm glad it is. It makes sense too; for years we've been embracing the sporty fashion look, so it's about time our interiors got the same treatment. And there's no one better for the job than Venus Williams. Although best known for her on-court performances, her interior design game is just as strong. She established her own studio, V Starr Interiors, back in 2002 and has spent the past two decades developing her own distinctive style. This 200-piece collection could just be considered her latest grand slam.

Tennis-inspired, it's certainly not kitsch. "Each piece was intentionally designed to feel artful, timeless, and design-driven, while still working cohesively together," she shares. "We had fun including a few nods to tennis, inspired by the geometry and elements of the sport, while keeping the overall aesthetic that feels elevated, effortless, and enduring." It never feels gratuitous or to the detriment of the design; with touches of Milanese elegance and mid-century modern influences, sport has never looked more luxe. Here's what to shop.

If this collection is anything to go by, I'm predicting that this sporty-chic style will become one of the most popular types of minimalism, and I can't wait to see it take over.

Stay on top of all the coolest new releases and chicest trends by subscribing to our newsletter, where we cover all the unmissable moments in design.

Dear Ellen,

Inspired by your brief, I’ve curated a personalised edit of some bedding and cushion finds to help create that cosy, wintery bedroom feel you’re after.

I’ve kept the palette very neutral and soft, with a little pop of pink to make the scheme feel more romantic. I think a really nice way to build the look would be to use beige or chocolate-brown bedding as your base, then layer in a throw or a couple of cushions in blue, green or pink to add some colour and personality.

As you haven’t provided me with your bed dimensions, I’ve included some pieces that are available in both double and king sizes, so you can choose what works best for your bed.

If you'd like a little more support pulling everything together, take a look at Style, our room design service at Design Lab By Livingetc. We'd have a 45-minute one-to-one call to discuss your space, and afterwards I'd put together a full moodboard for your space, along with tailored product recommendations and a clear design direction.

I hope you enjoy exploring your curated edit, and I'd love to hear which pieces you feel most drawn to.

Best wishes,

Iokasti

More Bedding Finds

Hi Amanda,

I’ve pulled together a few different directions for both the rug and pendant, keeping your large dining table and the wider open-plan space in mind.

For the rug, scale was the first thing I looked at. With a 289 x 110cm table, I’d ideally want something around 300 x 400cm so the chairs can still sit comfortably on the rug when they’re pulled out. I’ve included a mix of wool, jute and flatweave options, with pattern and texture doing some of the practical work too. In a busy family dining space, I’d much rather choose something with movement and tonal variation than a completely flat pale rug, as it’ll be far more forgiving day to day. Where a rug is slightly smaller than ideal, I’ve flagged it and would recommend taping out the dimensions first.

For the pendant, I wanted it to feel connected to the Neptune bronze and glass lighting you already have without making everything feel too coordinated. Because the table is so generous, the light needs enough presence to anchor the dining area, but I’ve kept the focus on softer shades and concealed bulbs so you still get that warm, diffused glow you mentioned.

I hope the edit gives you a clearer sense of how the dining area could come together, and I’d love to know which direction you’re most drawn to.

Warmly,
Miaad | Stylist

Rugs

Pendant lights

At this year’s Livingetc Unlocked, we offered two days of one-to-one consultations with us, the stylists from Design Lab by Livingetc. Our VIP guests could book a slot and bring along any design dilemma they were struggling with, from kitchens and bathrooms to challenging layouts and those awkward corners that never feel quite resolved.

Every consultation was different. Some guests arrived with floor plans and moodboards, while others brought photographs of rooms they simply couldn’t make work. We sat down together to explore layouts, color palettes, furniture choices and the smaller decorative details that can completely change how a space feels. So many of the same questions came up that we decided to share our answers here, because chances are, you may be wondering about them too.

1. My living room is quite large, but it always feels empty. How can I make it feel more inviting?

We would start by dividing the room into smaller zones, each with its own purpose. A generous rug can anchor the main seating area, while an armchair with a side table and floor lamp might create a separate reading spot. Bringing furniture closer together, rather than pushing everything against the walls, will also make the space feel more intimate.

Color and pattern can help a large room feel warmer and more enveloping. Deeper shades work particularly well, while wallpaper can bring texture and character to expansive walls. A large-scale pattern or mural could even be used to define one area of the room. Finish with layered lighting at different heights to create softer pools of light after dark.

2. How can I give my kitchen or bathroom more character without renovating?

Focus on the elements that have a strong visual impact but are relatively easy to change. New cabinet handles, a characterful light, painted joinery or an unexpected wall color can shift the mood of a kitchen. In a bathroom, try a decorative mirror, softer lighting, framed artwork or a fabric shower curtain instead of another hard, clinical surface.

These practical rooms often feel unfinished because we decorate them less than the rest of the home. Bringing in art, color and objects you genuinely love can make them feel much more personal, without needing to replace the expensive foundations.

3. My home is very white and feels a little boring. How can I become braver with color?

You don’t have to begin with a brightly painted room. Start with colors you naturally respond to and introduce them through pieces that feel easier to change, such as a rug, artwork, cushions or an occasional chair. Once you see those shades in the space, you’ll feel more confident about taking them onto the walls.

Wallcoverings are another lovely middle ground. A soft pattern or a linen- or silk-effect texture in a neutral shade adds depth without demanding too much attention. Color doesn’t always need to be loud — sometimes it's the subtle variation in tone and texture that makes a white room feel richer.

4. How do I find the right layout for an awkwardly shaped room?

We begin with how the room actually needs to be used, rather than where the furniture is traditionally expected to go. Look for an architectural feature, such as a fireplace, bay window or particularly beautiful view, that could become the room’s natural focal point, and build the layout around it. Then position the largest piece, usually the sofa, dining table or bed, and consider how you will move through the space, keeping doorways and natural walkways clear.

Before committing, we recommend marking out each piece on the floor with painter’s tape or sheets of newspaper. It's a simple trick, but it lets you experience the proportions and circulation of a proposed layout far more accurately than judging it from a floor plan alone.

5. How can I make an open-plan space feel connected without making everything match?

We like to create a visual thread that travels through the whole space. This could be one color repeated in different strengths, a timber finish that appears across several pieces, or a material such as brass used in the lighting and smaller details. The different areas should feel related, but they don’t need to be identical.

Each zone can then have its own identity. Rugs, pendant lights and changes in furniture arrangement can define where one area ends and another begins. For something less obvious, look to the floor — a slim marble threshold or brass floor inlay can create an elegant transition between two materials, subtly marking the move from a kitchen into a living area while still connecting the spaces architecturally.

6. How do I make a small room feel bigger without painting everything white?

White isn’t the only color that can make a small room feel spacious. We often recommend using a tonal palette on the walls, woodwork, and even the ceiling, as fewer visual breaks let the eye move around the room more easily. Soft earthy shades, muted blues, or warm neutrals can add depth while still making the space feel inviting. Curtains hung close to the ceiling and extended beyond the window frame will also exaggerate its height and width while allowing in as much natural light as possible.

Try to avoid filling the room with lots of small furniture. One generously sized sofa or statement chair can make the layout feel calmer and more confident than several undersized pieces. Furniture raised on legs keeps more of the floor visible, while a well-positioned mirror can carry light further into the room. Ultimately, it's good proportions and a clear layout, rather than white walls, that make a small space appear bigger.

7. I have sentimental furniture I want to keep, but my room no longer feels like me. How do I make it feel fresh again?

I always start by asking what you genuinely want to keep, a sentimental piece doesn’t have to dictate the whole room, but it can spark a fresh direction. That might mean reupholstering an armchair, moving a piece to another spot in your home, or pairing it with more current furniture.

Once you’ve settled on what’s staying, look at the room as a whole. For example, you could rethink the focal point or where the TV sits, and play with the layout by adding a larger sofa or extra armchairs for a more inviting setup. If your space is open-plan, try carrying some of the color from adjoining areas into the living room to make it feel cohesive. You don’t always need to start from scratch — sometimes a few key changes can completely transform how your existing pieces feel.

8. How can I make a low ceiling and short window feel taller and more generous?

Curtains can do a lot of the visual work here. Rather than stopping them at the width of the window, I’d take the curtain rod or track across the full wall and hang the fabric from ceiling to floor. It softens the architecture, makes the window seem much bigger, and pulls your eye up so the room feels taller.

For the low ceiling, I’d keep the walls and ceiling in the same soft color, no harsh contrasts. That way, your eye doesn’t immediately land on the line where the wall stops and the ceiling starts. It’s a simple trick that makes the whole space seem more open and even gives that cozy, cocoonlike vibe my clients always ask for.

9. My living room doesn’t have an obvious focal point. How do I create a layout that feels anchored?

You don’t always have to let the architecture dictate the layout. In this room, the walls were sharply angled, so instead of following those angles with the furniture, I created a clear square seating zone within the irregular footprint.

I turned the largest sofa toward the main window, where the client naturally wanted to look; then I grouped the rug, coffee table, and armchairs around it, almost like an island in the room. That immediately gave the living area more presence while opening up a much clearer circulation route around it.

And don’t feel you need to fill every awkward corner. Here, the sharpest angle became a small reading nook with a chair and a larger plant, turning what could have felt like dead space into something intentional.

10. My room has all the furniture it needs, but it still feels unfinished. What am I missing?

Before adding anything else, I’d always look at scale first. Often, a room doesn’t need more things; it just needs the pieces already there to have a little more presence. A larger rug that properly anchors the furniture, artwork that feels generous enough for the wall, or lighting at different heights can completely change how finished the space feels.

Then I’d look at what’s tying everything together. Repeating a color, material or shape in a few places helps your eye travel around the room and makes everything feel more connected. Sometimes the final layer is as simple as a floor lamp, a larger piece of art or a few well-chosen objects. It’s not about filling every empty space; it’s about making sure everything has enough visual weight, and the room feels balanced overall.

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Hi Melissa,

I’ve taken three slightly different approaches to the bed, from quiet texture to a softer botanical print and a more graphic geometric pattern. With minimalist, Art Deco and bohemian influences all in the mix, I’d avoid trying to represent every style too literally. Instead, I’d let the bedding set the overall mood, then use a decorative cushion to add a little more personality and finish the look.

Decorative Cushions | Pink

I’ve also added four pink cushions as a finishing layer. Rather than matching the bedding too closely, I’d use the cushion to introduce a softer contrast and a little more personality.

With the geometric bedding, I’d lean towards something tactile or slightly sculptural so the bed doesn’t become too pattern-heavy. With the quieter waffle or botanical options, you can afford to be a little bolder with shape, texture or tone. The pink also works nicely across all three directions, bringing warmth and helping tie the minimalist, Art Deco and bohemian references together in a more relaxed way.

There’s something about the first hint of seasonal change. Lamps on earlier, a book left by the armchair, velvet next to jute, and the way interiors shift as winter draws in. It’s the urge to swap lighter linens for heavier throws, to pull favorite blankets from the cupboard, and to create a cocooning that belongs only to this season. Rowen & Wren’s new autumn/winter collection has arrived just at that moment, capturing that lovely, nostalgic quality I look for as the year turns colder — and this year has embraced nostalgic decorating trends wholeheartedly.

Rowen & Wren has always sat in that elusive space between high street and designer for me. Every piece actually feels thoughtfully crafted, but never so precious that you can’t mix it into a home filled with stories and quirks. This winter’s collection is all about warmth: rust velvet, handwoven rugs, oak, cotton, and softly gathered lampshades that glow as dusk falls. I can so easily see myself curled up in the Finley armchair for a slow afternoon, velvet feeling even richer alongside those natural, rustic textures. It’s exactly the kind of collection that makes you want to settle in and unwind.

If I had to pick a favorite, I think it would be the Hanging Sky Lantern. It takes me right back to winters growing up in Sweden, when hanging an Advent star in the window was tradition — something that made even the darkest afternoons feel a little bit magical. The Lantern has that same comforting nostalgia, but with a modern feel that fits so well with how we live now. It’s a little reminder that the best rituals are often are the ones that shape a season and stay with you long after.

If you love this aesthetic and you’re starting to look for something for your own home, or even a thoughtful gift, did you know we have a free product sourcing service at Design Lab by Livingetc? Find is really simple: send us your brief, budget and what you’re looking for, and we’ll curate a tailored selection of pieces to suit.

And while you’re here, sign up to the Livingetc newsletter for more new launches and shopping edits straight to your inbox.

Dear Cynthia,

Inspired by your brief, I’ve pulled together a small selection of blackout curtains that I think could work well with a contemporary, modern or mid-century-inspired bedroom.

As you haven’t provided any further details about the existing colour scheme or the particular colour you’re looking for, I’ve kept the selection quite focused and included a few different tones and textures to give you some starting points.

I’d also recommend having a look through a few of our Livingetc guides, which might be helpful when deciding what direction you’d like to take. You can explore our edit of the best-reviewed blackout curtains, as well as Pandora Taylor’s Little Black Book of interiors for more inspiration. If you’re unsure which curtain finish or heading would work best for your space, our guide to the different styles of curtains is also a useful place to start.

If you'd like a little more support pulling everything together, take a look at Style, our room design service at Design Lab By Livingetc. We'd have a 45-minute one-to-one call to discuss your space, and afterwards I'd put together a full moodboard for your space, along with tailored product recommendations and a clear design direction.

I hope you enjoy exploring your curated edit, and I'd love to hear which pieces you feel most drawn to.

Best wishes,

Iokasti

Dear Francesca,

Inspired by your brief, I’ve pulled together a selection of compact benches that bring a little more personality to the hallway, while still being practical for everyday life.

I’ve looked for pieces with playful shapes, colours and textures, as well as options with storage for shoes, bags and those little things that tend to gather by the front door. As it was a bit of a challenge to find benches within the exact dimensions you requested, I’ve included a few options that are slightly larger — around 10–20cm over the maximum length.

If you don’t have the extra space, I would also suggest considering two small round ottomans with storage instead. They could give you a similar practical function while adding a fun, more playful feel to the hallway.

If you'd like a little more support pulling everything together, take a look at Style, our room design service at Design Lab By Livingetc. We'd have a 45-minute one-to-one call to discuss your space, and afterwards I'd put together a full moodboard for your space, along with tailored product recommendations and a clear design direction.

I hope you enjoy exploring your curated edit, and I'd love to hear which pieces you feel most drawn to.

Best wishes,

Iokasti

Dear Charis,

Inspired by your brief, I’ve pulled together a selection of round dining tables and chairs that capture the warm, mid-century feel of the Santoria table you had in mind, while working beautifully within a smaller living space.

I’ve focused on natural wood, cane and warm leather finishes to complement your existing Cary chairs, with a mix of more pared-back options and a few with a little more character.

If you'd like a little more support pulling everything together, take a look at Style, our room design service at Design Lab By Livingetc. We'd have a 45-minute one-to-one call to discuss your space, and afterwards I'd put together a full moodboard for your space, along with tailored product recommendations and a clear design direction.

I hope you enjoy exploring your curated edit, and I'd love to hear which pieces you feel most drawn to.

Best wishes,

Iokasti

Dining Tables

Additional Chair Inspiration

Kitchens can be quite the tricky zone to scent. Depending on whether you have food odors you wish to banish, or if you're trying to set the ambiance while you whip together a meal, you'll want a deodorizing candle. Or something subtle to add to the vibe without overpowering your senses, causing you to salt with a heavy hand.

In my recent years of learning about the art of home fragrance, I have finally understood the art of making your kitchen smell nice. And the formula is simple. Herbaceous notes for when you're cooking, fresh zingy scents for right after, and soft gourmands for every other moment.

And the most common mistake people tend to make is using strong fragrances in the kitchen. This will confuse your sense of taste as you cook and overwhelm the space. That's why lighter profiles and considered candle placement can make all the difference.

So, without further ado, here are 16 design-forward scented candles that will feel at home in your culinary space. Bon parfumage!

Wondering if you should light a scented candle at a dinner party? I explain how not to ruin your menu with an incompatible fragrance.

To keep up with more design-y recommendations to elevate the way your home feels, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter.

Rechargeable lighting is a game-changer — no two ways about it, in my opinion. Not as the main element of a lighting scheme, of course, but as a complementary companion, adding versatility, flexibility, and much-needed warmth and cozy ambience to your space — no electrician required. Aside from the well-known portable variety of lamps we've become most accustomed to, the lighting trend gaining traction in interiors right now is bookshelf lighting, and Pooky's new Bookshelf Lights are the crème de la crème.

Pooky is known for stylish, clever lighting pieces that are customizable to suit your style, and this latest 'clip-on' range for shelves, bookcases, and mantels is no different. You can choose from five base colorways in a reeded finish, including brass, bronze, and turquoise, to pair with one of over 200 interchangeable shades, meaning there are at least 1,000 unique combinations. Jo Plant, Pooky's chief creative officer, says, "It's versatile enough to work beautifully with a playful animal print, a traditional floral, or something completely unexpected."

Bookshelf lights are a stylish way to add a warm glow to dark shelves, making a feature of your books and decorative elements while adding functional lighting. Plus, this particular type of 'clip-on' portable lamp is so great because it doesn't actually take up space on your shelves; the design clamps to the edge of the shelf or mantel, so that the lamp sits on the outside of it, meaning more light and no interruption of your shelf styling. Easily move it to wherever you need it, from your kitchen to your living room, for unique charm and cozy warmth.

A Few Fave Combos

"I’m always looking at spaces in my own home that could use a little extra glow, and my shelves aren’t tall enough to plonk a cordless lamp in amongst the books and knickknacks, so I started to wonder about clip-on styles. It needed to be cordless, of course, to avoid the hassle, cost, and clutter of wiring," says Jo.

And it's this stylish iteration of the 'clip-on' lamp that sets it apart from anything else on the market right now, which is decidedly less design-forward — this versatile design would elevate any bedroom, kitchen, or living area with an intentional design moment that’s also wonderfully practical.

As we head into the cozy season, if you're looking to buy new lighting that adds warmth, personality, a pop of color, and a delicate glow to your space, all in fuss-free fashion, then these bookshelf lights might just be exactly what you're after.

More Rechargeable Lamp Styles to Shop

If you like Pooky’s bookshelf lamps, you'll likely also love Next's Marble Bookshelf Lamp, which is another unique way to light up your bookcases and shelves in a designer-look style.

And for more shopping advice and design ideas, subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.

Nearly two years in the making, author, creative director, and interior expert Reena Simon and Beauty Pie have finally launched their home fragrance. And let me tell you, it's elevated minimalism at its finest.

These three luxury scented candles from Reena Simon x Beauty Pie look like another curated ceramic vessel on the surface, only to unveil thoughtfully layered notes for morning, afternoon, and evening scents for your space.

I spoke to Reena about the thought behind each fragrance, and it's clear the level of intention that went into finalizing each blend and the designer silhouette itself. So, let's get into what each of these scented candles sparks in a home.

When I asked Reena about her love for interior perfuming, she explained that scent, to her, isn't simply the finishing touch to a room. "I always talk about how it should be viewed more as emotional architecture. You take in the atmosphere of a space and often have a physical reaction before you’ve properly noticed the furniture or the colors, and scent plays such a big part in that," she says.

"I had already used and loved Beauty Pie for years, so when the opportunity came to create something together, I wanted it to feel very connected to how I actually live. Our homes are never just one mood all day, so rather than designing one signature fragrance, I wanted to create three candles for three distinct moments: the freshness of morning, the softness of golden hour, and the stillness that comes once the house is at its calmest, usually in the evening."

Speaking to the minimalist vessel, she points out that the physical design was just as important as the fragrance. "I wanted a substantial three-wick candle that could really scent a room, but I also wanted the vessel to feel like an object you would choose for your home," she adds.

"I originally hoped the candles could be refillable and, when that wasn’t technically possible, it led us towards something I think is even more beautiful — Beauty Pie’s first ceramic candle vessel. The matte finish is tactile, the colors sit naturally within an interior, and, once the candle is finished, it becomes a keepsake rather than something you immediately throw away. That was really important to me as I value permanence."

To me, the best home fragrance should exist in your home long after the wick burns out and the reeds dry out. And as Reena points out, this candle effortlessly switches into a covert catch-all that can live on your coffee table. But until then, enjoy its stacked form by tucking the lid under the candle while it brightens your home — lining up the indent in the base with the top for a cool, statuesque moment.

More Scented Candles to Shop

If you're wondering which of these new candles are ideal for autumn, Reena recommends Time Well Spent. "Golden hour is my favorite time of day in any season, but there is something really beautiful about it as autumn arrives," she tells me. "By September, the light through our kitchen windows turns amber in the late afternoon, and that is when I want this candle lit. It's the first point in the day where I feel like I can exhale."

And for more delicious-smelling candle inspiration, these are the candles interior designers are burning in their homes right now — you're welcome.

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