In the most elevated homes, artwork doesn’t just get balanced on a nail in the wall. No, proper consideration is given to how it’s mounted, framed, and eventually hung — for interior designers, it’s as much a part of the process as finding the right art itself.

And these examples go to show it. It's not just about where and how to hang art, I’ve looked for ideas for framing that complement the artwork itself, giving it a new dimension.

From decorative frames to colorful passepartout, these are the ways to take your artwork to the next level.

Shop Creative Frames

For more inspiration for your walls, floors, and more, why not sign up to the Livingetc newsletter?

After years of apartment hopping in London, I know firsthand how hard it can be to design a stylish bedroom when space is at a minimum. Plus, I recently upgraded my standard full to a king-size frame — what little room my apartment bedroom had is now even less. So what do you do when your bed takes up almost the entire bedroom?

Just because we don't all have space for a separate vanity area or window bench in our bedrooms doesn't mean it has to be boring; the best small bedroom ideas make the most of whatever space you have. So if the size of your bed only leaves a small square footage left to work with, that just means it's time to get creative. Could a bed nook make the space into a cozy haven? Would a canopy bed create a dramatic, enveloping environment? There are way more options than you might imagine to make your bedroom a stylized blend of form and function.

And to generate ample inspiration, I called in the experts. I asked interior designers for their favorite ways to make a small sleeping space feel as fashionable as one with ample room. Whether it's a small guest bedroom you're planning or your main sleeping space, below are a few ways to crank up style — no heavy renovations required.

1. Combine Functionality Across the Space

Rather than getting discouraged, think of a bed that takes up most of the bedroom as a design challenge. You don't have to stick to strict bedroom design rules here. Still, London-based interior designer Qian Wang from Xu & Wang Studio says, "I usually look at this kind of bedroom situation from both a functional and visual point of view."

Functionally, reducing or combining some of the practical elements can be a good approach for a small bedroom. For example, "instead of having a freestanding bedside table, we might simplify the storage and integrate it into the headboard," says Qian. Not only does this save space, but extended headboard design makes the space feel elevated and cohesive — you're creating a more custom aesthetic. Which, Qian says, going bespoke or built-in when you can "makes better use of the available space."

This combining of functions can translate in a variety of ways. I always love a make-up vanity idea for a bedroom, but how do you fit a vanity when the bed encroaches on most of the space? Qian says, "A vanity could potentially replace a bedside table." Further, if there isn't enough room for that stylish wardrobe you're dreaming of, "a bed with integrated storage could be used for clothes that aren't worn as often, while everyday clothes could be kept on a simple freestanding rail," adds Qian. Every seemingly small bedroom layout problem has a smart and stylish solution.

2. Create a Nook When You're *Really* Tight For Space

Or, if you are really tight for space, creating a bed nook is a fashionable way to reclaim the room. "A nook is a good way to make the bed feel more integrated into the room and, actually, reduce its visual presence," explains Qian.

By creating a dedicated cozy corner, the bed becomes the main focus of the room, and you can (and should) highlight this. For instance, a canopy bed in a room where the bed takes up most of the room actually gives the space more intention and character. For one, the drapery draws the eye upward, making the room feel larger. Plus, the bed then becomes a style statement rather than a cramped afterthought.

A nook is also a good opportunity to squeeze more storage into your bedroom. However, Qian says, "I think it probably works better in a children's room or a secondary bedroom rather than a main bedroom. Compared to a more open bed arrangement, it can feel slightly less formal and perhaps not create quite the same sense of comfort and openness for sleeping."

Basically, contrary to what you might naturally assume, interior designer Gabriela Eisenhart says, "I always lean towards larger or integrated furniture like this in a smaller space." Think about building the room around the bed rather than fitting everything you can in. Canopies, nooks, nightstands built into the headboard, sconces on the wall, and a built-in wardrobe for storage — these clever solutions both increase functionality and visual impact.

3. Make Use of Vertical Space

When you can't build much outwards, think of what you can do upwards. "Visually, we would look at the overall volume of the room. If the room is very small but has a generous ceiling height, we might think about how we use the vertical volume to make the room feel bigger," explains Qian.

Again, this is where a custom built-in will save the day. Built-ins can help you make the most of an underutilized space and provide more storage. "You can design it to maximize your vertical space, add storage exactly where you need it, and create an intentional solution rather than squeezing more furniture into the room," says Gabriella. But if you can't go custom, other design solutions can help maximize your vertical space.

Color drenching is a really good way of doing this, especially in more contemporary bedrooms. "It helps soften the boundaries between the walls and ceiling, which can make the space feel bigger," says Qian. Add bedding in a similar or tonal colorway, and a too-big bed will feel exceptionally stylish and cozy.

Or, if you don't want to drench, another consideration is the material palette. "A dark floor against lighter walls and ceiling helps to emphasize the height of the room and makes the space feel more generous," says Qian. Don't overlook the space your walls and ceiling can provide.

4. Create Cohesion Through Restraint

When a bed takes up most of the space in a bedroom, restraint will be your best friend. This is not to say you can't make striking design decisions (like a canopy or custom headboard); it just means you really need to think about how every material, finish, and color works within the room.

"For a small bedroom, we tend to be quite restrained with the architectural finishes. Too many elements can create too many points of attention, and that's not necessarily the feeling you want to create in a bedroom." Instead, bring in more texture through fabrics and smaller decorative elements. This allows the space to feel rich and layered without feeling too busy.

Layering in design, and especially textures, is incredibly important in any space, especially a smaller one. "I like to use lots of neutral textures within a similar color palette. Immediately, it brings warmth and depth to the space without overwhelming the senses," says Gabriella.

Keep things fairly simple and limit the number of different materials for architectural finishes, so the space has a clear visual focus," adds Qian. You can then add more visual richness through objects and accessories.

Choosing the right bed size for your space makes the design feel more generous, but I get it — sometimes the bigger bed is something you don't want to compromise on. For that, these ideas bring intention back to the room.

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

Don't get me wrong — I love summer. But after three months of its sweltering heat, autumn's cooler, slightly shorter days, and my weekly menu spanning beyond cold salads is a welcome change. There's also an unspoken pull to retreat indoors. I find myself becoming increasingly house-proud as I dust over surfaces, rearrange my homewares, and cozy up under blankets.

If spring and summer call for bright florals and light, breezy fabrics, autumn signals deeper tones and lots of texture. However, autumn decorating can be more sophisticated than the obvious swaps.

I asked designers what changes they subconsciously make to their homes to welcome the season, and these are the five things that will make your home feel autumnal — and none of them are naff.

1. Make Evenings the Focus

As the long stretches of sunlight slowly fade and autumn brings forth its shorter, cooler days, we naturally begin to retreat indoors earlier. While summer and spring are all about time spent in the sun and drawn-out lunches, autumn and winter bring the focus onto cozier, more intimate moments.

"September doesn’t usually change a home’s layout; it changes how it’s inhabited," explains interior designer Noyan Berkman. "As daylight shortens, people instinctively begin designing their evenings rather than their rooms."

While Noyan says creating "pools of light" to create cozy, intimate areas is key here, this could even extend so far as bringing furniture pieces together to create a sense of physical closeness, says Greg Natale.

"This can be enhanced with extra floor or table lamps, which provide a warmer glow to the living room space as the days shorten, while rugs introduce much-needed warmth underfoot," he adds.

Shona Joy of Smac Studio agrees, saying she tends to lean into the objects and systems around her to create atmosphere and mood as the evenings get longer.

"I think the record player is a great example," she says, "I'm imagining making an evening out of dimming the lights, putting the record player on, and leaning into the depth of autumn weather."

2. Bring Nature Inside In Unexpected Ways

This is not about switching from spring florals to autumnal hues — and it's certainly not about kitsch pumpkin decor. Instead, says Lisa Worth of Worth Homes, use dried foliage, branches, and deep, dark greens.

"The feeling shifts from freshness to richness — from the fleeting beauty of summer to something more grounded and enduring," she explains.

Aside from actual pieces of nature, autumn can be welcomed in more nuanced ways. Mimicking the lack of light, for example, can create a sense of warmth. "Coming into autumn, it’s always nice to dim the lights," says Claire Ferguson of Grove Interiors.

Creating layers of light allows you to reduce reliance on big, bright overheads and instead allows sconces, floor lamps, table lamps, and statement pendants to (literally) shine.

"I put everything on dimmers to control the atmosphere as the days get shorter," says Mariam Grace of the eponymous Mariam Grace Design. "Even in the kitchen, using integrated under-cabinet lighting can instantly make the space feel warmer and cozier — perfect for soup season!"

Mariam also recommends warm bulbs and softer, diffused lampshades. Think linen, natural fibers, or amber glass. "It's a subtle shift, but changing where your light comes from and lowering it closer to eye level can completely change how intimate a room feels. Pair this with a fireplace and some candles...chef's kiss!"

3. Rooms Become Destinations

During the warmer months, people tend to move throughout the home, and indoor and outdoor zones are treated as one and the same.

"In September, that behaviour subtly changes," notes Noyan. "Certain areas naturally become destinations: a favorite chair beside a lamp, the dining table set for everyday meals, or a quiet corner that invites you to slow down. The focus shifts from occupying the whole house to enjoying specific moments within it."

This is especially true of the kitchen, says Lisa, which regains its crown as the heart of the home. "The kitchen shifts with the season, becoming less about simply preparing food and more about gathering, lingering, and reconnecting." So dress it that way.

4. Materials and Colors Become Deeper and Abundant

Texture, color — and lots of it — is a beautiful way to welcome the new season. It needn't be as on the nose as orange and rust, says Lisa, but can extend to tobacco, olive, chocolate, oxblood, camel, and caramel hues — a palette that feels "quieter, deeper and more enveloping".

Similarly, textures are swapped. Linen is traded for wool or velvet; baskets holding chunky knits appear; embroidery and larger pile fabrics come out, says Claire.

Reflection, too, becomes important as surfaces begin interacting with the light differently. "Mirrors, polished metals, and glass no longer make a room feel larger—they make it feel warmer, quieter, and more atmospheric as evenings become longer," explains Noyan.

5. Everyday Objects Become Ritual, Not Decoration

The end of summer coincides with the end of the holiday period, and as routines are re-established, decorative objects become part of everyday life, says Noyan.

Books are placed back on the coffee table, candles are lit rather than left, throws are kept within reach, and a favorite ceramic is used daily. "The home feels more intentional because familiar objects begin serving a purpose again," says Noyan.

Similarly, small moments are ones to be celebrated, says Claire. "It is nice to create an atmosphere of social ceremony in the form of afternoon tea, or evening cocktails to put you in mind of time spent together indoors."

So, it's time to hunker down, cozy up, switch up your palette, and dim the lights as we welcome the new season.

For more inspiration, subscribe to Livingetc's newsletter.

Last week, after a several-year hiatus, Livingetc Unlocked made its official return, and let me tell you, we were back with a bang. In a two-day-long event spread across the leafy Clapham Common, our readers were invited to step inside some of the area's most beautiful homes, with free rein to experience their beauty firsthand — a dream come true for any design lover. But if you didn't manage to make it this time, don't despair. I spent a whole day in what might just be one of the most impressive kitchens in the city, and I took notes.

'The Modern Family Home', on one of Clapham's loveliest roads, mere steps away from the sprawling Common, was a beauty from top to bottom. With a basement gym and kids' rooms more luxurious than most primary bedrooms, there was no shortage of inspiration. But it was the modern kitchen that really stole the show. Now, as Livingetc's resident kitchen writer, I'm no stranger to a beautiful kitchen design; however, there was something about the way this open-plan space was designed that set it apart from the rest. The level of detail was truly astounding, and everyone who entered it seemed to agree.

Designed by the fabulous team at Naked Kitchens, alongside the talented Millie Turner, founder and creative director of Millie Turner Designs, this space blended traditional styles with modern sensibilities in a way that perfectly complemented the renovated Victorian property. Eagle-eyed and nosy as ever, I snooped around every nook and cranny of this gorgeous kitchen, making sure to take inventory of all the clever little features and designs you might just have missed, and these are the five that impressed me the most.

1. The Clever, Concealed Fridge-Freezer

Typically, I'm a believer in saving the best for last, but this feature deserves nothing less than the top spot. It wasn't the first thing I noticed when I walked into the room, but that's exactly what makes it so special.

In most kitchens, the fridge is one of those ugly-but-necessary features we all just put up with. And while the idea of a concealed fridge is nothing new — in fact, they pop up in almost every quiet luxury kitchen around — this design did it in a way that felt truly original.

Usually, the concealed fridge is designed to blend in with the rest of the kitchen cabinetry, finished in the same color and with the same hardware. In this space, however, it was quite the opposite.

Designed to look like a standalone piece of furniture, the beautiful, curved cabinet was painted in a soft, creamy shade and finished with eye-catching bamboo handles — a contrast to the brassy metallic finish used across the rest of the kitchen. The effect is such that it appears to be entirely separate from the space, a clever piece of kitchen storage that just so happens to sit across from the main kitchen area.

So, when you open up the curved cabinet doors to reveal a fully concealed fridge-freezer unit within, the immediate reaction is nothing short of complete awe. And if that wasn't enough, they even managed to squeeze a hidden kitchen pantry unit on either side, too. In building this fantastically detailed, gorgeous design, this kitchen turned what is usually an eyesore into a genuine design moment, perfectly blending form and function with effortless grace.

2. Mix-and-Match Cabinetry

Throughout the home, there was a clear appreciation for the art of decorating with neutrals, in a way that felt cozy rather than cold, and that was just as prevalent in the kitchen. It was the largest room in the home, and the overall feeling was of a bright, airy space, with soft, neutral tones. It felt clean and simple, but still warm and inviting.

There was a simplicity to the space, so it came as a surprise when I noticed that a total of four different colors were used across the kitchen cabinetry. So often in kitchens, people think you have to stick to one color across all your cabinetry, or else the space will look cluttered or overly busy. However, this space proved quite the opposite.

With a dark green island, oak shaker doors, an off-white upper cabinet, and, of course, the previously mentioned freestanding pale cream unit, there was so much variety in the joinery throughout this kitchen. But because all these colors sit within the same soft, earthy color palette, the result doesn't feel confused or cluttered; it feels completely harmonious.

What this offers, that a single finish wouldn't, is that sense of depth and character. It's an excellent trick for building intrigue in a space while still keeping that bright, neutral finish.

3. Clutter-Prevention Design

If there's one thing that has seemed to dominate the world of kitchen designs in recent years, it's the desire for discretion. While it was once the norm to have your kitchen appliances out on display across your kitchen counters, over recent years, the goal has been to keep as much out of sight as possible, and that's something this kitchen has done so well.

Walking through this space, you won't see a single plug socket on display; no coffee machines or toasters cluttering the kitchen worktops. Every item you see is intentional, a delicately placed finishing touch in antique brass or ceramic. By removing the clutter a kitchen typically invites, they made space for you to fully appreciate the beauty of the design.

It's not just the fridge-freezer either; every appliance is hidden behind a cabinet door, sliding open to reveal a perfectly positioned appliance garage or coffee nook. It's minimalism without sterility, and it's a must-do move for anyone who loves to host.

4. The Uninterrupted Island

It's become commonplace for the kitchen island to exist as a dual-purpose surface — you'll often see a hob on it, or a kitchen sink installed on one edge. However, in this design, the large, central island was left completely clear, and I think that might just be the way to go.

You see, when you decide to add an extra feature onto your island, such as a hob or sink, you immediately invite a whole wealth of clutter to exist on this surface. Whether it's a drying rack or cooking utensils, these items will detract from the aesthetic appeal of this large, central feature in your kitchen.

And it's not just visual consequences; these additions will also detract from the much-needed prep space that an island can offer.

By allowing the island to be just that, the design becomes calmer. It's a central spot for guests to gather around, with a generous amount of space that can be used for serving food, prepping while cooking, or even a makeshift home bar setup.

5. The Finishing Touches

When it comes to designing this space, so much attention is placed on the kitchen layout, materials, and appliances — and as important as these features are, sometimes the things that make the biggest impact are the smallest details. And this is exactly what this kitchen does so well.

Every element of this design shows so much care and consideration; you can see the level of thought throughout. One of my favorite examples is the hardware and the kitchen handles.

While so many kitchens opt for a one-and-done approach to hardware, using the same knob or handle across the entirety of the cabinetry, in this kitchen, the variation is what gives the space character. With a combination of knobs, handles, and latches, all in the same antiqued bronze finish, these elements really do function as the jewelry of the room.

And I'd be remiss not to mention the gorgeous bamboo handles on the fridge unit. A welcome contrast to the bronze finish throughout the kitchen, these handles bring a textural intrigue that feels decidedly modern compared to the traditional kitchen features surrounding them.

Equally beautiful are the antiqued bronze grates used across the upper cabinetry, and the matching gallery rails running along the open shelves; details which add warmth and character to the space. So, too, do the accessories, such as the antique salt and pepper mills and the ceramic vases that serve as countertop accessories. They look far more elegant than any air fryer ever would.

Get the Look

Still feeling the Unlocked fomo? Luckily for you, Livingetc's editor and style guru, Hugh Metcalf, helpfully collated his top 10 details spotted in the Unlocked homes, so you can still get your dose of design inspiration.

And for more design updates and exciting news, make sure to subscribe to our newsletter.

There’s a school of thought that bathroom sanitaryware looks best in white. Sure, white toilets and sinks have timeless style appeal, but when it comes to designing a powder room — an inherently smaller-scale room housing a toilet and sink — there’s a wave of designers opting to make a statement by featuring a rock-solid, sculptural sink as the focal point in the room.

Whether square, rectangular, or curved off and crafted with more fluid lines, a stone bathroom sink, says interior designer Clarisa Llaneza, "succeeds because it creates a memorable moment." Colorful and varied, it brings "weight, permanence, and a sense of nature" into a space, she adds. "A rich tonal variation can add depth to the decor, creating a sense of tension between softness and strength."

There’s a distinct air of confidence required for this design cue. "I often encourage clients to be more adventurous than they would in a primary bath," explains Clarisa. "Guests can forgive a little impracticality if the room feels special." And this feeling of being ‘special’ is really the crux here. A ‘wow’ sink ‘transforms a routine act into an experience and gives the room a distinct identity’ — an injection of emotional value in a space that’s so often just given over to practicality and some form of an air freshener.

Of course, there are practicalities to consider when designing your room around a sink like this. Often fairly sizable and striking in appearance, they tend to be "generous by nature", say designers Benjamin Stelly and Tanya Selway, the duo behind interiors studio Stelly Selway. "You’re committing to it being the focal point."

For this reason, other design elements in the room should be chosen to complement it, not fight it. When Stelly Selway opted to include a bespoke Hammam with high-contrast marble veining in the bathroom pictured at the start of this article, they selected white walls, plain blush zellige tiles, and a simple wooden plinth for their sink to sit on — restrained "to avoid it feeling cluttered". This approach works particularly well for family life, where the look can be "polished, but not too precious", they explain.

If maintaining a sense of space is a key concern, there are design tricks you can pull out of a hat. "You have to think about every centimeter," say Benjamin and Tanya. "Where possible, we built storage into the plinth itself rather than letting it sit out in the open. That way you're not sacrificing any practicality; you're just keeping it all tucked away and tidy. The goal is to keep the floor as clear as possible so the sink has the space to feel like a proper feature rather than something you're squeezing in." On a similar note, opting for a wall-hung toilet sans floor pedestal can also help create the illusion of a larger floor area and make a small bathroom look bigger.

To maintain its striking quality, consider cleaning and preservation too. "It's more straightforward than people expect, honestly," say Benjamin and Tanya. "Seal it before it gets used with a good stone sealant, and then just keep on top of that every so often depending on how much use it gets. The main thing to know is to keep acidic cleaners well away from it; anything citrus or vinegar-based will dull the surface over time. A mild soap and a soft cloth are really all you need day to day." Treat it well, and a sculptural stone or marble sink like this isn’t just a star feature — it gets better with age.

For more inspiration for your bathroom, why not sign up to the Livingetc newsletter?

Whether you're working from home full-time or need a dedicated space to manage life's never-ending admin, a well-designed home office is key to staying focused, motivated, and inspired.

Creating a space that balances functionality with good looks transforms daily routines into something far more elevated — plus, an overhaul gives you the chance to experiment with colors, materials, and textures you might not be brave enough to bring into other areas of your home.

From clever home office storage solutions and statement lighting to tactile wall treatments and artful backdrops, incorporating thoughtful design ideas into your setup can completely reimagine the feel of your home office. Below, we've rounded up some of our favorite ideas from designers to get the inspiration flowing.

1. A Desk That Does the Most Work

Whether your taste veers more to mid-century Mad Men or curved, contemporary style, a design-led desk spells serious business. In this project in south Berlin, designer Kasia Kronberger, founder and principal designer of Studio Bosko, tells us the client wanted to hold onto the 1970s aesthetic while adding an "artistic, family-orientated feel". Anchored in a room of fresh green and light blue, the desk's sculptural form is perfect for inspiring creative thinking.

2. Sculptural Shelving

In this Georgian terrace in Hove, interior designer Natasha Lyon, founder of Appreciation Project, makes the case for a set of sculptural shelves. "There isn't much of a view in this room, so I wanted to create points of interest through color and craftsmanship," she says. "The natural oak shelving was handcrafted to a bespoke design. It's a great way to inject a room with personality, as well as being highly practical."

3. Art Direction

All the best home-office backdrops we've spotted have a painterly canvas or tapestry behind them. Hang or lean your artwork, whether your taste veers towards an expressive oil-on-canvas or an intricate patchwork tapestry or embroidery panel, it's all about adding a touch of creative atmosphere, as this space at Hyde Park's The Bryanston, designed by David Collins Studio, shows.

4. Cutting Corners

Interior and furniture designer Gemma Fabbri of Studio Fabbri spotted an opportunity when insulation lowered the ceiling height in this Hertfordshire home.

"Alcoves like this create the perfect opportunity to repurpose awkward areas of the home," she says. "Tucking a workspace into a nook creates a natural sense of enclosure — you feel contained in a good way, separate from the rest of the house, without needing a dedicated room."

5. Pin-Up Perfection

Tasked with creating a series of practical work-from-home spaces for her clients, a family of five, interior designer Emily Lindberg sourced cork tiles for this room.

"We loved the idea that [the kids] could pin up their drawings or use a big shared calendar," she says. "It's a tight space, but there's ample room to have rotating 'exhibits'." Streamlined walnut millwork and pops of color give the cork some contrast and brightness.

6. Bright Spark

Tasked with creating an office space for Patrick Dangerfield, captain of Australia's Geelong Football Club, interior stylist Julia Green lined the walls with American oak for an "immersive and enveloping" feel. But the standout piece has to be the desk lamp. "Every room benefits from an element of surprise," says Julia. "While the palette is deliberately restrained, the unexpected hit of bright yellow introduces energy and a contemporary edge."

Having to squish two people into your home office? That changes things a bit, but doesn't mean you have to compromise on style, either. In fact, that's how offices were originally designed to be!

For more inspiration, subscribe to Livingtc's newsletter.

In what could be called the quintessential Sussex village of Horsted Keynes, you'll find an equally quintessential country home and kitchen. A vision of rustic wood and textured warmth, the kitchen may only have been installed recently, but the new and old blend together so harmoniously that they have become part of one complete whole, neither entirely new nor old, so that you can't imagine a time before this kitchen came to be, or the home without it.

This space was all about finding ways to honor tradition while supporting contemporary life. The homeowners wanted a modern kitchen that felt in line with the architecture of their historic home, bringing together contemporary features and traditional elements in a way that felt harmonious and natural. Luckily, this is something the team at Inglis Hall has perfected as a fine art. "Creating a modern traditional kitchen might sound like trying to balance two competing priorities, but it’s something we encounter often," explains Jenna Spicer Lumb. In period properties, the kitchen essentially has to straddle two worlds: providing the modern functionality we expect from our homes today, while still feeling connected to its surroundings.

Instead of fighting the existing architecture, this kitchen intentionally embraces it, actively incorporating it into the new design, reimagining the space in a way that pays homage to all that came before. A design steered by genuine consideration and care for the home's history, as well as a true excitement for modernity, this is a kitchen where old and new become one.

The Inspiration

In period homes, there can often be an underlying duty to honor the history of the property, which at times can begin to feel like a kind of shackle, preventing you from exploring the full breadth of your desires and design ideas. In this home, however, it was clear from the jump that this was not going to be the case.

"Our very first conversations with the client quickly established that this would not be a project politely bound by tradition," explains Jenna. The house was already so rich in history, with a life that stretched far beyond the current homeowners. That said, when they were designing the space, it was important that it felt true to them, reflecting their lifestyles and habits in a way that was authentic and natural. And, as passionate cooks, nowhere was this more important than in the rustic kitchen.

This duality presented a challenge for the team at Inglis Hall. They had to create something that felt in keeping with the rest of the home, but also specific to the current homeowners' needs: "A cook's kitchen that feels unmistakably contemporary, yet completely at home in its surroundings."

To achieve this, the team began by creating a clear outline of priorities and intentions for the space.

First and foremost was functionality. "This kitchen needed to work hard," says Jenna. "Its owners are serious cooks, so generous kitchen storage and space for the equipment, ingredients, and paraphernalia that come with that were essential."

The family's passion for food stretches beyond the confines of the kitchen: "They grow produce in their kitchen garden and preserve their own food, as well as regularly cooking and entertaining for family and friends." The space needed to be dinner-party ready, as well as suitably practical to support their agrarian pursuits, too.

The Process

The team at Inglis Hall had quite the task set out for them, but they were more than ready to rise to the challenge, and the natural first step in the journey towards a contemporary chef's kitchen was, of course, choosing the right kitchen appliances.

Sourcing appliances is one of the most crucial steps in building a true chef-worthy kitchen, making it a natural starting place in the design process. "Finding the perfect range was an early priority, as was incorporating an industrial dishwasher and a generous walk-in pantry," Jenna explains.

In such a large, rustic space, a range oven was a natural choice. In recent years, it's become one of the most popular traditional kitchen features, and can become a true focal point of the home. For many, it doesn't get much better than a traditional Aga oven. So, the decision to remove one from this space could feel like sacrilege to many.

But in the original design, the traditional Aga had been built into the chimney breast and was positioned away from the main kitchen. Ultimately, the Inglis Hall team found that in removing the Aga, they were able to open up the space, making the overall kitchen flow more naturally.

This, in many ways, became the turning point in the design process. By removing the Aga, they suddenly had a whole extra block of space to work with, opening up the opportunity to build a concealed kitchen pantry within the former chimney.

"The pantry occupies the former inglenook and is lined with two-inch-thick stone, which helps to keep the space naturally cool. It turns what could have been redundant space into a hardworking part of the kitchen, while keeping a considerable amount of storage discreetly out of sight," says Jenna.

Finding ways to incorporate the existing architecture into the new design became one of the core principles of this process. "The former inglenook chimney became the setting for the walk-in pantry, while the leaded windows provide a natural home for the daybed and relaxation area," says Jenna.

And it didn't end there. Even elements that could have been seen as restrictive became integral to the design, like the supportive timber column, which became the central mark for the kitchen island to be built around. Explaining this choice, Jenna says, "Rather than butting cabinetry up against it and allowing the two elements to fight for space, we built around it so that the island and architecture feel naturally connected."

Positioned in the bucolic countryside, the surrounding setting becomes a key player in the design, too, and the choice of colors, materials, and even the kitchen layout was selected with the outside world in mind, creating a sense of natural continuity between the interior and exterior world.

The Design

In this design, there was a natural harmony between the aesthetic properties and the functional ones. Across the design, there was a consistent desire to find a balance between modernity and tradition, finding ways to honor both at every step of the process.

This becomes particularly clear when looking at the materials used across the kitchen, from the kitchen worktops to the wooden flooring; each element blends modernity with tradition in a way that feels wholly natural and authentic to the space. "The material palette deliberately brings contemporary and traditional elements together," says Jenna.

For the countertops, they opted for Richlite, a durable, composite surface that brings a surprising depth to the space. For the rustic effect, wood was the only way. "Band-sawn oak introduces texture and natural timber; it feels fresh against the aged structural beams while being essentially the same material," says Jenna.

From there, burnished brass kitchen handles and natural stone details round out the palette. "These are materials chosen not just for how they look when new, but for how they will age: developing patina, marks, and character through use," says Jenna. "This project was a joy from start to finish, and captured so much of what we’re about: a kitchen made to be lived in, that will tell its story with every passing year".

It's this combination of modern and traditional materials that makes the overall effect feel so cohesive. "Rather than trying to replicate the existing architecture, we used materials that could sit comfortably alongside it and develop their own character over time," Jenna explains. "Color, texture, proportion, and vista were all important in bringing the old and new together as a cohesive whole."

Get The Look

In this setting, the natural texture and warmth you can find only in wood kitchens were essential to achieving that rustic, country feel while maintaining a contemporary feel, too. But even if rustic isn't your style, there are so many different looks you can create using wooden cabinetry as your base.

For more design ideas and inspiration, make sure to subscribe to our newsletter.

Often, in darker kitchens, there’s a real temptation to make everything as light and bright as can be.

But if you’re concerned the space may feel dark and gloomy, then perhaps, controversially, you might want to rethink overbearing kitchen lighting and give the moody ambience a chance, and here’s why.

Sticking to the light, reflective surfaces and pale finishes can strip the space of depth and character, explains Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra. “The trick is not to confuse dark with gloomy,” she says. Because dark doesn’t necessarily mean this; think more along the lines of low-lit, atmospheric, moody and romantic.

Read on to find out exactly how to take the dark and atmospheric look in the right direction and achieve the perfect ambience in your most-used space.

1. Layer your Lighting

Perhaps the most obvious solution to a dark kitchen, yet also one of the easiest to get wrong. Rather than flooding the space with bright overhead lights, modern lighting trends look to a mix of different light sources that you can use independently (if you need or want them to).

“The key is not to rely on harsh task lighting that can cast shadows and create an unbalanced design,” says Erik Munro, founder of interior design studio Munro. “Instead, layering lighting is paramount. You need a strong base, then many added layers, and finally, clever use of indirect, soft lighting to create a warm, atmospheric feel.”

The idea is to ensure the kitchen works at every point of the day. Cover the practical task lighting and illuminate areas such as the countertops, sink and hob, while softer light sources can take over when the kitchen becomes a space for simply relaxing and entertaining.

“Dark kitchens don’t need to be flooded with light to feel inviting,” agrees Tom Raffield, creative director and founder. “The key is to layer warm, considered lighting throughout the space.” He recommends combining the task lighting with other ambient lighting, such as: “The soft glow of a pendant over a dining table or the subtle downlighting from wall lights can add a sense of intimacy and depth. If possible, include a dimmer switch, as being able to adjust the brightness can quite literally transform the space, making the darker elements of the kitchen an appeal rather than something you need to overcome.

2. Pair Lighting With the Right Colors and Materials

"Lighting has a profound influence on both the aesthetic and functional qualities of interiors,” says Massimo Buster Minale, founder and creative director of Buster + Punch. “Just as the positioning of a room may inform the color palette, lighting determines how those colours appear within a space.”

He explains that in darker kitchen color schemes, a thoughtfully structured and layered approach to lighting can guide how each zone is experienced, meaning whether you want to achieve a cocooning and intimate environment or a more industrial, dramatic tone, lighting can create each and every look when planned properly.

But what Massimo really recommends is installing a dimmer switch. It may sound like a small detail and is usually an afterthought, but having the ability to soften the ambience and shift the environment with ease will impact your day-to-day instantly and give you room to work out which levels of lighting work best and when.

The materials of your lighting also play a significant role in your kitchen design. Wall lights are known to introduce a decorative element of lighting with character and style, pairing perfectly with a chandelier and spotlights to create a cohesive and tonal balance throughout. As Massimo suggests, “Steel and brass finishes complement darker schemes by balancing cool and dark hues, further enhancing depth and visual contrast."So it’s not only what the light puts out, but how the source looks itself; consider this when it’s both on and off.

3. Consider Using Candlelight

'My kitchen is easy to make feel cozy,” says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens. “It's not a particularly bright room and tends to be quite dark, so it lends itself well to candles.” There are a lot of opinions on candles, but even if you don’t opt for the real thing, there are some really good alternatives available nowadays to create an equally cozy feel.

She describes her space, housing two beautiful vintage candle sconces on either side of the window, and when the candles are lit, it becomes beautifully inviting. “I think candles on walls are so much better than any other type; they really do create something special,” leaning into another time, long ago. “I also have a little rechargeable lamp on my dining table; it's been such a wonderful thing. I love having a small atmospheric little pool of light in an otherwise dark room; it feels very bistro.” Helen explains how she often adds foliage into the room in winter to make the room feel different to the summer when it's all geraniums, and that adds to the coziness too.

“And don’t be afraid of shadow," adds Grazzie. A kitchen diner doesn’t have to be uniformly bright to feel welcoming. In fact, allowing some areas to feel deeper and moodier can make the whole room feel more considered. It’s that contrast between light and dark that gives a scheme atmosphere.”

4. Embrace a Darker Palette

When you’ve got an already dark space with shady corners and very little natural light, I’m all for embracing this and rolling with that theme to make it one to remember. A dark kitchen doesn’t need to be bright to feel inviting. “Deep cabinetry, darker worktops and warm lighting can create a more intimate setting, particularly in the evenings,” says Kate Duckworth, a styling expert for Kutchenhaus.

So rather than trying to lighten everything, Kate suggests using the darker palette as your starting point; we're talking walls, floors and perhaps even the cabinetry in that one color, and then introducing contrast through the countertop, splashback and lighting. “The result is a kitchen that feels confident in its personality."

5. Curate a Palette of Materials

Curating a palette of materials that not only look good but also feel good together will naturally exude a rich environment, engaging anyone who enters the space, including an atmospheric color palette.

Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr, suggests reds, blacks, and deep earth tones such as brown, green, and burgundy. Then move on to combining materials: brass countertops, oak cabinetry, paired with painted units and decorative stone surfaces. Al ensures this will add further character: “A layered design that will be highly sought after in the coming years."

Grazzie agrees, “I always think it’s better to introduce warmth rather than simply whiteness. Timber, aged finishes, veining, irregular surfaces, and earthy tones all help a darker scheme feel layered and lived-in, rather than flat."

It’ll always be difficult to preempt your atmosphere for every possible scenario, but embracing that moody romance and cozy darkness will create an experience, rather than a dull, light space trying too hard to be something it simply isn’t. It’s as easy as considering task lighting for the essentials and ambient lighting in materials and colors you are unlikely to get bored of. So own the drama and work it into the interior architecture you've got for a unique cocooning effect.

For more inspiration for your kitchen and beyond, why not sign up to the Livingetc newsletter?

One of the absolute pleasures of working at Livingetc is having the opportunity to look through pictures of some of the world's finest homes on a daily basis — but being able to step inside some of them, specifically four of London's most beautiful homes in the heart of Clapham alongside our readers, is quite another joy entirely.

These curated homes opened their doors for our Livingetc Unlocked two-day event, and they're a one-stop shop for design inspiration. From quirky artwork and marble masterpieces to cozy nooks and standout architecture, these modern homes are a testament to originality, personality, and what it means to make a home your own.

Here, our house hosts guide us through each home, sharing the spaces that left a lasting impact on them and their fellow guests, so that you can be inspired to recreate a little bit of their magic in your own home.

House 1 — The Art Collector’s Home

Unlike so many homes, where stepping through the front door reveals barely anything about the people who live within it and the lives they lead, The Art Collector’s Home instantly greets you with a collage of frames before you even cross the threshold. It’s so aptly characterized with colorful paintings signed by big names, monochrome prints, and even nostalgic drawings from the children of the home layering into each other.

The couple, who met at a Christy’s auction of all the gin joints, pieced together this home that reads like a love letter to art and family. It manages to multitask in its role as a genreless gallery and an actual livable home with character. As I guided people around the home, a few characteristics caught a particularly friendly amount of compliments.

First, the cloches of quirky felt art in the modern kitchen and bathroom, courtesy of contemporary artist Lucy Sparrow. Including a reimagined Twix bar, a Colgate tub, a pack of Band-Aids, and a jar of Skippy peanut butter, to name a few. A more serious element of design that conjured a flurry of oohs and aahs was the dirty marble kitchen island. And of course, all eyes were on the art. Be it the oversized hanging fixtures, the mini black and white frames, the preserved Basquiat-esque doodle-ridden receipts, or even the Joseph Kosuth ‘FIVE WORDS IN VIOLET NEON’ sign that hangs adjacent to the front door.

And in true ‘art collector’ character, the home had plenty of minimalist picture lights showing off the pieces on display. The spaces teach you to leave it all out in the open. Forget coloring inside the lines and spotlighting only the manicured side of your home’s design. That kooky piece of art you’re unsure of? Hang it in the living room. The manifestation poster that gives away the hopeful side of you? Place it with pride. The products of an artistic hobby that sit hidden in your creative space? Pop it right by the front door or on a powder room ledge. Personality is the most charmingly unique thing you can adorn your home with.

House 2 — The Modern Family Home

Stepping through the door of The Modern Family Home was a moment of serenity along the Livingetc Unlocked tour. Everything about this south London home oozed restfulness, comfort, and a truly elevated, but lived-in aesthetic. You could imagine living here, but you also left feeling inspired to make a few upgrades. The red velvet bench seat in the breakfast nook, the seating area across from the modern farmhouse kitchen, the vanity by the window in the bedroom — each detail seemingly better than the last. So what moments really made this heritage-meets-contemporary home stand out?

The main bedroom was one of the most impressive rooms. From the textured detailing on the built-in wardrobes to the custom curved doorway leading into the ensuite, every moment felt intentional without feeling overdone. When the goal is to create a serene, cozy bedroom, it’s easy to fall into overly minimalist territory, but that wasn’t the case in The Modern Family Home — subtle, but curated details gave the room character.

For instance, over the radiator (in a rather awkward corner), a floating vanity was installed, then decorated with a bouclé accent chair, portable table lamp, and oversized mirror. This became a very memorable part of the room. The walls were color-drenched in Little Greene’s Portland Stone (a paint color almost everyone asked about on the day), but by adding a textured wallpaper to the built-in cabinetry, it didn’t read flat. This tactile detail was repeated throughout the room in the thick curtains lining the window seat, the upholstered headboard, and the pleated lampshades — everything in conversation with one another.

And the open-plan kitchen and dining space in The Modern Family Home was equally impressive. White zellige tiles that wrapped around the space, natural wood cabinetry, a custom cabinet hiding the fridge, and even a sitting area with family photos. I could go on, but if you need inspiration for creating a home that feels luxurious but livable, this Modern Family Home is a masterclass.

House 3 — The Home for Entertaining

I don’t like to play favorites, but there was something about The Home for Entertaining that left me with a sense of FOMO. I could picture glamorous guests traipsing through the front door past its stained-glass transom window, ushered into the spacious foyer that opens into a gorgeous modern living room to the right and a bright open kitchen and dining room to the left. Milling around with dirty martini glasses perched on the shelves, perhaps some with a cigar from the stocked case sat in the same corner.

As you make your way into the kitchen, you can almost hear soft music from soirées past, and I can only imagine the fun the connected garden has seen in its time. Of course, since the owners, once actors, now the brains behind the buzzing Opus 11, lend their entertaining genius to high society, it only makes sense that their home has all the lavishly considered details to host.

But it’s not just the guest-led spaces that garnered verbal applause. As I spoke to the crowds at Livingetc Unlocked, many praised the dusky blue cinema room, the Mediterranean-inspired ensuite bath and its relaxed minimalist primary bed. Another detail that was captured on countless phones was the accent wall dotted with round marble and gold sconces by the staircase, landing between the upper floors.

Gently curving architecture, the wabi-sabi of the limewash walls, color-drenched pockets, and curated vignettes make the house read as infinitely confident and somehow still surprisingly approachable. And if you still can’t catch on to just how much of a vibe the space is, a shelved pair of red bedazzled shoes from a certain Rocket Man is the cherry on top...

House 4 — The Interior Designer's Home

Although I only spent one day in The Interior Designers House, by the time I left, it already felt a bit like home. This is exactly what Pauline, the interior designer and architect who lives here, was hoping for when designing her Clapham family home — an artfully balanced blend of old and new when renovating this property, Pauline took care to retain as much of the home's Victorian charm as possible, combining original features with modern flourishes for a finish that feels both contemporary and classic.

Restored, original wooden flooring runs from the entryway through to the living areas, providing a foundation of warmth and texture. Bright, light walls are juxtaposed with dark accents for a crisp contrast across the ground floor. Dark, wooden alcoves flank the large, original fireplace, and windows and doorways are coated in a deep black paint. These surprising, stark contrasts feel distinctly modern against the traditional Victorian architecture, which brings a new level of depth and complexity to the family home.

The furniture across the home also leans more modern, with a mustard yellow Togo sofa and white leather Eames lounge chair bringing a cool, modernist feel to the living spaces. These iconic furniture pieces set the tone for the home, so much so that you’d never guess that so many of the finishing touches were sourced from high street favorites, including an Anthropologie desk holding fort in the top floor office.

The kitchen extension is, arguably, the highlight of the home. Throughout my time spent in this home, I can’t count the number of people who fell in love with the kitchen worktops. Nor can I count the number of shocked faces upon the realisation that the Calacatta Viola counters were in fact ceramic rather than a true natural stone. The kitchen was a true testament to Pauline's mastery of space.

Despite working with relatively limited dimensions, she found a way to squeeze everything you could possibly need in there, without it feeling cramped. She even managed to find space for a wine fridge, a new essential. The banquette seating, running along the length of the wall, was another genius move. The Kirkby Design fabric added an extra layer of character to the room, and a few keen eyes were particularly excited to spot that it was a reworked tube seat design.

If you missed out on Livingetc Unlocked this year, fear not — you can already register your interest for Livingetc Unlocked 2027, and we'll let you know as soon as tickets go on sale. And it's not just house tours either — we're talking a programme of workshops, talks, and the best in design talent, of course, so you won't want to miss it.

On the other side of the Atlantic Ocean? Not a problem. Fill up on design and travel ideas with maker and furniture designer Mary Ratcliffe's insider guide to Toronto.

And for more inspiring home tours and design ideas, subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.

When it comes to any of Greg Natale's projects, there's no shortage of eye-catching designs and intriguing choices to fall in love with, and this dreamy, candy-colored New York townhouse he designed is no exception. From the Kandinsky-inspired mural across the living room wall to the custom, carved marble mosaic shower, every corner reveals a new expression of his creative brilliance. But the thing that really stuck out to me in this project was something far more subtle, a smart, unexpected move that is surprisingly easy to recreate at home: a wall-mounted chandelier in the kitchen.

Displayed proudly on the wall of the home's kitchen, directly above the built-in marble shelf, the four-arm light fitting is such a simple but brilliant kitchen lighting idea that brings a cool, sculptural touch to the space. Despite making a natural fit as a wall light, the original light fitting, a 4 Surface Trapeze from Apparatus, was designed with the intention of being displayed on the ceiling, with the four bulbs illuminating the space beneath. But, ever the creative, Greg chose to defy convention and place this ceiling lamp on the wall instead, and now we're inspired to follow suit.

Explaining this design decision, Greg says, "Because the kitchen is positioned in the center of the floor plan in the row townhouse, we needed to introduce additional light into the space." Inspired by the precision of modernist French task lighting from the 1950s, specifically Serge Mouille’s rotating sconce, Greg set out to find a lighting style that fulfilled the functional and aesthetic needs for the space.

For this modernist yet functional approach, Apparatus Studio's Trapeze Light felt like the perfect solution. "The client had previously had Apparatus Studio’s lighting in a previous home and already had a strong appreciation for their collection. With its rotating arms, the Trapeze complements the home's playful, artistic, and whimsical styling theme, bringing a sense of movement while also serving a practical purpose by directing light precisely where it is needed in the kitchen."

But this look wouldn't only work with this exact light. The idea of a chandelier as a wall light could apply to so many styles. So, I scoured the web for the coolest ceiling lights around, with a specific eye out for ones that would look even better displayed on the wall than they would up above, and I think I've found some top contenders.

As Greg shows so well in this project, while there are some kitchen lighting design rules to follow, getting creative with function is not one of them. By combining a smattering of overhead task lights with this striking wall-hung chandelier, Greg created a space that felt truly unique and practical, too.

For even more clever ideas straight from the designers, subscribe to our newsletter.

As the seasons change, you might be looking at your garden as a no-go zone from September through to next spring. However, right now is the time where you could still be making use of it as an entertaining space, if you had the right fire pit or outdoor fireplace in position.

And yes, using them will extend how long you can use your outdoor space for, but your fire pit ideas shouldn't be an afterthought. In fact, with the right materials, you can design one into your space that feels like a centerpiece of your garden.

And, it's not just those well-trodden hardscaping ideas that only work, like Corten or galvanized steel, for fire pits and fireplaces. These projects go to prove that there are some exciting design options open to you.

1. Look to Natural Stone

Materials matter when you’re looking to create a fire pit moment that stands the test of time. "The raw stone used for the fire pit was selected for its organic quality and the beauty of the material," says Patricia Benner, principal of California’s Benner Reibel Landscape Architecture, about this scheme. "In this Japanese-inspired garden, this natural element, nestled in lush planting, contrasted nicely with the linear moves in the hardscape."

2. Introduce New Texture With Tile

Tiled fireplaces are commonly seen indoors, but it's a stylish material update that adds texture and color to a garden scheme, too, and the fire’s light reflecting off these zellige tiles makes for an atmospheric evening.

"We opted out of black anywhere in this renovation and instead focused on an earthier palette," says Abbie Naber, founder of San Diego-based A Naber Design. "The burnt sugar-hued zellige tile blends with the surrounding exterior landscaping while offering an edgier, imperfect material. It leans a bit 1970s retro, and we loved that aesthetic for this home. We focused on a monolithic design and let the irregularity of the tiles come to the forefront."

3. Blend Into Your Home's Architecture

A sunken seating area such as this one, excavated by London landscape and garden designer Georgia Lindsay, needs a fireplace to create cozy autumn evenings outside. "We used bricks reclaimed from the interior of the house to construct the entire fireplace, creating a strong connection between the architecture and the landscape design," Georgia explains.

However, that's not the only way this outdoor fireplace supports indoor-outdoor living. The fireplace was designed as a cantilevered feature with an open side to the right, allowing it to be enjoyed equally from inside and outside the house. "At the touch of a button, the fireplace can be ignited and appreciated from the comfort of the dining room as well as the adjoining terrace."

4. Use Texture to Make Outdoor Materials Like Concrete Feel More Elevated

Part of a project by Chelsea Edmonston of Chelsea Corinne Studio, a Southern California-based landscape designer, and Mario Soto Design Group, this seating area features a custom concrete fire pit by Made Form Studio. "The piece’s fluted detail echoes the handcrafted stucco fireplace inside," says Chelsea. "It creates a visual connection between indoors and out while serving as both a warm gathering place on cool evenings, as well as a coffee table — perfectly positioned to be enjoyed from every surrounding room."

The introduction of the fluted texture gives this rustic material a more intentional, elevated look.

5. Layer Materials for Interest

This outdoor fireplace shows the power of mixing materials, from the contemporary stone surround against the fieldstone exterior to the smaller-scale tiles inside the hearth itself.

And, should you wish to be more sheltered from the elements, a patio protected by a roof is the perfect place to install a fireplace for cozy evenings outdoors. "The fireplace is placed on the front porch of the house to promote an extroverted character," says Ben Dimmitt, senior associate at Texas studio Chioco Design. "The placement provides a reason to gather in your front yard, see your neighbors as they walk by, and say hello."

For more inspiration for your home and garden, sign up to the Livingetc newsletter.

Trends are a tricky one when it comes to interiors — especially in kitchens. They are tempting to follow, and when a new color, statement material, or even clever storage idea feels completely 'of the moment', it's understandable to want it in your space — but when everyone starts doing the same thing, what was once new and exciting suddenly loses its sparkle.

And in the kitchen, where we spend so much of our time, replacing countertops, tiles, or cabinetry isn’t usually a quick or inexpensive fix, so the design approach for this space should be a timeless investment that will last for years to come, rather than being beholden to the latest kitchen trends.

The most enduring kitchen is the one that doesn't try too hard to be on trend. So I spoke to designers about which trends they think are most overdone in 2026 and which you'll likely regret in the not-too-distant future — here's what they said.

1. Too Many Statement Surfaces

Let’s start with those statement surfaces we all crave to feature boldly in our kitchens. This space can certainly benefit from a standout material — it's a trend for a reason — but when it's overdone, it all becomes too much. Multiple surfaces end up competing for attention, and the space reads confused and will likely feel dated before long, too.

“The thing I think people will regret isn’t choosing a dramatic stone or a bold tile. It’s giving every surface in the kitchen the same level of importance,” says Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra. It’s something we are seeing more of — heavily veined kitchen countertops carried up into the splashback, waterfalls down the island sides, and then paired with another statement floor material. “The problem is that when everything is designed to be noticed, you stop noticing any of it.”

Instead, Grazzie recommends creating a hierarchy. “Decide what the hero is and let the other surfaces do a quieter job around it.” For example, if you’ve chosen a dramatically expressive stone for the island, you will most likely gain more impact from pairing it with a calmer but complementary floor and a more restrained kitchen backsplash, rather than by repeating that same drama in all three areas.

One thing to note, Grazzie explains, “I also think people can underestimate how quickly an instantly recognizable ‘look’ can date a room.” Now, that doesn’t mean playing it safe. She reassures us that character, color, and pattern can age brilliantly, but what tends to date the kitchen is when several trends from the same year have all been layered together.

“My rule is simple: if you removed everything else from the room, would you still genuinely love that surface? If the answer is yes, it’s probably a much better long-term choice than something you’ve selected because it happens to be everywhere at that particular moment.”

2. Overly Repetitive Textures

Texture is key to a successful design, but too much of the same texture across too many elements is not a good thing. Gareth Hull, design lead at Hendel & Hendel, advises against choosing texture just because it happens to match something.

"The strongest kitchens don’t necessarily repeat the same detail verbatim," he explains. "They create a relationship between materials,” and this must be felt throughout the space, right from the start of the design. “That distinction becomes more important over time. Decorative treatments can come and go very quickly, but good proportion, tactility and the feeling of something well made tend to have a much longer life.”

A fluted kitchen island, reeded glass, grooved cabinetry and ribbed panels can turn what may have been an intentional design detail into an overly repetitive motif. Gareth recommends being a little more thoughtful and creative, particularly where it has a tactile purpose. Be intentional with your use of texture, incorporating it where it makes sense in your space, rather than feeling you need to add it everywhere.

3. Going Overboard on a 'Theme'

Now, let’s talk 'themes' in general. When every element is chosen to fit one look in particular, there is a sense of personality and individuality that is lost — which is the opposite to the type of spaces we hope to create in 2026. It’s much warmer to allow the room to evolve naturally.

“Avoid gadgets and trendy ‘in’ looks and don’t go full-on with a theme or have a shopping spree to accessorize the whole room all in one go,” recommends Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens. She explains that there is nothing wrong with exploring kitchen wallpaper ideas, as you can change it in a couple of years, but spending lots of money on statement lighting rather than a timeless classic can be a big, costly mistake.

“The key to transcending fashion is to go for simple, beautifully made classic cupboards, fittings and worktops and then add small, well-chosen pieces gradually,” and ensure they are things you do love and will continue to love, rather than just because they're popular at the time.

4. Taking Minimalism Too Far

Also one of this year's most outdated kitchen trends, over-the-top minimalism is definitely overdone. While pared-back kitchens can feel sleek and sophisticated, (clear kitchen, clear mind, and all that!) taking minimalism too far can leave you with a bland ambience. One-color handleless cabinetry and completely concealed appliances can become overly uniformed when altogether and prevent any character from making its way through into the final design.

As Ntola Obazee, brand director of Kutchenhaus explains, the key is to introduce some contrast without losing that calm and clean aesthetic. Warmer finishes, statement lighting, distinctive hardware or varied cabinetry tailored to the architecture leans into a much more design-led, intentionally minimalist look.

"It’s about creating a foundation to build upon and evolve with. Ideally, “The room will continue to feel like your own rather than a snapshot of a particular moment.” Plus, it's worth establishing if you are actually a minimalist, or just overwhelmed in your space — whether you like the style, or are just trying to beat the clutter, it's important not to take the trend too far.

5. All-White Cabinetry

Seen as a safe option for years, all-white kitchens are frankly overdone. We’re hearing more than ever from designers that all-white cabinetry isn't the way to go if you want to avoid a potentially stark space with very little character. If you want a light, neutral kitchen, there are better ways to go about it.

We’re seeing a move towards layered, tonal schemes that introduce color subtly, explains Massimo Buster Minale, founder and creative director of Buster + Punch. “Tri-color kitchens bring depth, contrast and texture to your space, working just as well with neutral tones as they do with darker schemes.” He tells us it’s less about following rules and more about creating a kitchen with real character and warmth, natural materials, and you'll have a kitchen that feels welcoming and lived-in for years to come.

From cabinets and countertops to walls, ceilings, lighting and hardware, each element can be curated to connect, contrast and push the look that much further into a design-led kitchen that offers so much more than simply function.

It's always going to be hard to know which trends are going to fall out of favor quickly, and which ones get totally overdone, so creating a kitchen that you won't regret in the near future is about curating a palette and layers of materials that you like, and that work for your space. The trick is to know where to embrace a trend and where to hold back, especially when it comes to the more expensive elements of the room. And when it comes to color, these timeless kitchen colors will help you future-proof your space, too.

But hey, just because a trend may be overdone, doesn't mean you have to change your space or not do or buy something anymore — if you like it, that's what counts after all.

For more design ideas for your kitchen and beyond, subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.

It's a small irony that, right now, people are looking to make their homes as personal as possible, yet the art of the aesthetic family photo hasn't quite been mastered. However, outside of professional interiors shoots, once you go into real homes, even the most luxurious ones, you'll find that most people actually have them.

So, making family photographs look good shouldn't be an afterthought, and planning them into the design of your home from the outset is a good idea. There are all kinds of ways to do it, but one of the most resonant ideas right now is using the framing's 'passepartout' to elevate the look of your candid snaps.

This bedroom, a project by Bristol and Cotswolds-based Ro Projects, goes to show just how effective this can be as a treatment for wall decor.

"The generous passepartout combined with the asymmetrical placement elevates the photography, giving personal images a more considered and gallery-like quality," explains Rosa Roig-Fiol, interior designer and founder of Ro Projects. "The additional negative space allows the photographs to breathe, transforming them from simple snapshots into pieces that feel more special, curated, and worthy of display."

"Within this scheme, the treatment adds depth and character while creating a refined balance between personal storytelling and decorative impact," Rosa adds. "It allows cherished photographs to feel both intimate and collectible, bringing warmth and personality to the space."

It's something that, until recently, has been something that's required bespoke mounting to achieve, but that we're now seeing become more available to buy as ready-made frame and mount combinations.

Beyond these options, you could look to bespoke framers, but this tutorial from Sostrene Grene for how to make your own offset passepartout might be your next option to recreate the style of this bedroom's gallery wall.

For more inspiration for wall decor and more, why not sign up to the Livingetc newsletter?

Every interior designer knows that great rooms start from the ground up. While your floors might be gleaming in polished hardwood or looking resplendent in smooth stone, it’s what you layer on top that really makes them sing. That’s where the latest rug trends, from contrasting weaves to reimagined classics, come into play.

This year, things are stepping up. “The floor is now where a room earns its personality,” agrees Alicia Meireles from OWN London. Whether you’re considering a new design for your home or are at the start of the journey, looking at where to buy rugs, knowing the latest looks enables you to choose the very best.

Ready to break new ground? Let’s explore the top rug trends for 2027 and discover how to make them work in your space.

1. Multiple Textures

Interior designers have long relied on rugs as a way of layering texture into a space but are now opting for even richer, more tactile styles. “A rug with contrasting pile heights gives you dimension and depth in a way a flat rug just can’t,” explains Regan Baker.

Rather than one uniform surface, embossed rugs with multiple textures feel far more interesting underfoot. Opt for a handcrafted design made from entirely natural materials — like the alpaca style in the space above — to maximize the variations in finish, weave, and fiber that enhance the sensory experience.

This rug trend allows you to create real interest without having to rely on color or pattern. “Texture asks you to slow down and actually engage with a space,” adds Regan. “It allows you to build richness in a way that feels calm and liveable, but still very glamorous.”

2. Artistic Expressions

Rather than the usual regimented stripes and strict pattern repeats, we’re spotting more rugs in creative, free-flowing motifs. “I think we’re looking for more spontaneity in our spaces,” says Paris-based designer Sibylle de Tavernost. “There is something almost hand-drawn about these styles, with their curves, irregularities, and unexpected proportions.”

For a more individual look, consider rugs created in collaboration with artists, illustrators, or independent designers — these were a highlight of the recent Clerkenwell Design Week, as well as 3daysofdesign in Copenhagen.

Wherever you place it, a bold rug is sure to become a feature. “These designs feel more like a piece of art within a room, so you want the rug to feel like a painting on your floor,” says Sibylle. Rather than cluttering the rug with lots of side tables and armchairs, give it space to breathe so its pattern and colors can be properly appreciated.

3. Runners, Anywhere

Good news — the hallway is no longer the exclusive habitat of the runner. These rectangular rugs, typically found in long, narrow entryways, are now popping up in bedrooms, kitchens, and as bathroom rugs, too.

“There’s a broader movement toward making every room in the home feel layered, and textiles are a big part of that shift,” explains Trish Lynn, founder of Colette Interiors. “A runner is an easy way to introduce warmth and texture to rooms typically filled with fixtures.”

In rooms with the odd splash or spill, opt for durable designs made from jute or washable fibers. These are more forgiving materials than wool or cotton and, for bare feet on chilly mornings, provide a welcome layer of comfort compared to cold tiles.

4. Shaggy Surfaces

This year, shaggy textured rugs are more about visual contrast than any sense of retro nostalgia. “People instantly link deep-pile rugs to the 1970s, but this is about a wider shift toward subtle, tactile counterweights to today’s clean-lined furniture,” says Malin Glemme, creative director of Swedish rug brand LAYERED.

This contrast is important — as the space above so adeptly demonstrates, a shaggy rug looks most ‘now’ in rooms that are otherwise ordered, with plenty of sharp edges and smooth surfaces for the almost playful softness to push against.

Beyond looks, a textured rug has sensory impact. “It changes how light behaves in a space, as the deep fibers take in light rather than reflect it. This creates subtle shadows and allows the tone of the rug to change throughout the day,” explains Malin. “Acoustically, the materials absorb sound and make a room feel quieter.”

5. Palette Setters

Starting your color palette from the ground up creates a cohesive look and places your choice of rug front and center in your space. This year, designers are doing this in a subtle, but no less effective, way by opting for styles in a tight palette rather than a kaleidoscopic one.

“In this space, we chose a soft and elegant backdrop, with the rug’s colors subtly introducing the tones and palette of the overall scheme,” explains Sophie Debuisson, who created the living room above. “For this look, the rug must never overpower the other pieces in your space, as you don’t want anything to compete for attention.”

For a contemporary feel rather than a confused one, go for a rug that combines three, or maximum four, shades. Pull out just one or two colors from the design and use these as solid blocks across furniture, upholstery, and window dressings. Echo them on smaller details throughout your space, too.

6. Soft Curves

Circular rugs remain an important trend for 2027, with designers now using them as an architectural tool as much as a decorating one. “With so many possibilities now available for shapes, colors, and size customizations, designers use round rugs to redefine the outlines of a space,” explains Greg Natale.

They are a particularly effective choice in rooms with awkward proportions, as curved shapes help to obscure irregularities on a floor plan. “Round rugs make these spaces feel less rigid and more relaxed,” says Greg. “Sinuous forms and soft, fluid contours add a sense of movement and flow.”

Without adding hard-edged corners, round rugs trick the eye and create a perception of a larger room. Maximize this effect by leaving enough open space around the rug; it can only rebalance a room’s shape when you see enough of the floor around it.

7. Look-At-Me Borders

While there’s a degree of simplicity to this year’s rug trends, with looks leaning toward materiality and form rather than OTT maximalism, one style mixes this up just a little. “A bold border really elevates even the plainest rug,” says Laura Stephens, who used a bespoke design in the living space above.

“Graphic motifs, like this one, have an impact and create more of a statement,” the interior designer adds. “Borders work best when the main body of the rug is quite understated, delivering an element of surprise and allowing the rug to feel decorative without becoming a highly patterned statement piece.”

For maximum flexibility, opt for a border rug with a color and style that works with your existing scheme but dials things up just ever so slightly — think about the color wheel. Deep green speaks the same visual language as blue, for example, while a rug with a zesty lemon border would look right at home in a terracotta-hued room.

8. Heritage Revisited

Traditional designs including kilims, Oushak rugs, and Persian rugs may be timeless, but we’re noticing a subtle shift in the way they are being used. Rather than the heavy reds and dark blues these carpets are typically seen in, a brighter, even slightly acidic, palette is beginning to emerge.

“Heritage rugs have always been popular, but what’s shifted is the confidence to re-color them,” explains Alicia Meireles from OWN London. “A traditional design in its original tones can read as period, but push it into something saturated and it suddenly feels a bit subversive.”

This also allows very traditional patterns to work in contemporary spaces, bringing warmth and a sense of character even alongside sculptural forms and sleek, minimal finishes. “A bolder palette stops these rugs feeling nostalgic and instead makes them feel thoroughly modern,” adds Alicia.

9. Folksy Prints

Patterned rugs have been given a homespun makeover, with ‘perfectly imperfect’ weaves and rustic motifs rather than digitally printed designs. “We’re moving toward rugs that feel more expressive, rather than perfectly drawn or overly decorative,” explains Bombay Sprout’s Zara Bolingbroke-Kent.

“These patterns work best on a natural material like jute, where the irregularities in the material create texture, variation, and movement,” the designer adds. “You’re not looking at a perfectly flat, clinical surface, there’s a lovely quality of something that could have been picked up on your travels and brought home.”

To stop floral, botanical, and other folksy patterns feeling twee, opt for a large-scale pattern over a ditsy one. Balance the artisan qualities of this type of rug with simple furniture and luxe accessories — don’t layer lots of pattern elsewhere, as this sense of contrast is key to a contemporary look.

10. Room-Within-a-Room Sizing

Interior designers have always used rugs for zoning, but this rug trend goes beyond differentiating open-concept spaces. Instead, it is about using larger designs to create rooms-within-a-room. “Rugs are now defining the footprint of entire areas, giving a sense of intimacy and purpose within much larger spaces,” says Sophie Pringle, founder of Pringle & Pringle.

Essentially, furniture is now sitting entirely on top of rugs rather than simply skirting their edges. “This holds spaces together, rather than making individual pieces feel like they’re floating,” the designer explains. “It creates more of a psychological boundary, without any awkward barriers and still keeping all of the benefits of open-plan living.”

If you’re in the market for a new rug, go for a bigger design than you might instinctively choose. To find the perfect size before ordering, use masking tape to mark out how much floor coverage you actually need. Whether for a living, dining, or work zone, make sure the rug has enough space to hold all of your furniture, plus a little breathing room to spare.

FAQs

Which Rug Styles Should We Ditch in 2027?

Now you know the rug trends worth investing in; what about the looks to step away from? Again, we’re suggesting you steer clear of maximalist designs featuring lots of competing colors and patterns — these distract the eye and tend to dominate a room before you’ve even looked up from the floor.

At trade fairs and in designer showrooms, we’re noticing fewer rigidly geometric designs — while a stripe is forever timeless, there’s less symmetry in patterns overall, and checkerboard designs are giving way to looser forms, like plaid rugs.

Finally, bigger seems to be better in 2027. Make your rug choice more deliberate by avoiding designs that are too small — this year, sizing up is better than sizing down.

Whether you’re looking for a design featuring a pattern with rhythm or would prefer a timeless rug style, there’s never been a better time to invest in a floor covering. In fact, the rug trends for 2027 embrace different colors, patterns, and textures in a fairly versatile way, meaning they’re sure to endure.

Discover our new collaboration with Hug Rug, and to receive more inspiration straight to your inbox, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter.

With all the recent talk about using bolder, more experimental colors in interiors, it feels important to define what those colors are and how to actually bring them into your home. Taking risks reaps big rewards, right? But it's not always so simple. So, what are the risky colors designers are using right now? And how should we introduce them into our homes?

"People are definitely becoming more expressive in their homes, and decorating with color plays a big role in that," shares interior designer Scott Maddux, who is no stranger to saturation. Interestingly enough, Scott hints that the colorful risks we take in our wardrobes and fashion can be the best indicator of what kind of 'risky' colors we might like in our homes. "Fashion plays a big role in our familiarity and acceptance of colors," he says. "There is the larger, slower-moving cycle, and then there are seasonal 'pops' which are shorter in duration but help to move the larger cycle forward." Much like within interior design color trends.

Taking a risk on a specific shade or tone because it speaks to you is "when color can feel fresh and even a bit edgy," adds Scott. "I love all the colors; it is important to use them when the time feels right. Color is instinctual." So, are you feeling a pull to use a color slightly out of your comfort zone this season? Below are the risky color choices that designers wish more people would try, plus how to feel more comfortable using them.

So, What Are 'Risky Colors'?

First and foremost, to recognize what a 'risky color' for your home is and how to start using it more, "one must first understand the form of color," says color expert and founder of The Colour Academy, Fiona de Lys. "Turn the question inside out and ask not 'what is a risky color' but instead 'what is risky about color?'"

This is the same idea Scott Maddux hints at: thinking about interior colors from a more personal perspective. A color can feel risky both because it is outside your home's typical color palette and because it generally feels more daring to the eye.

For example, "Think of a soft, pale, sky-blue hue reminiscent of early morning haze," says Fiona. "Now take the same blue and crank up the pigment — the blue is now intense, a rich, piercing azure with more saturation and chroma. The blue has become riskier to use. So a great way to experiment with a risky color is to begin with what feels familiar and increase the saturation and chroma until you feel the 'tension' of something playful and exciting."

For many people, that chromatic tension is where the risk lies. But you can also feel that a soft lilac or chartreuse shade of green is 'risky' if the rest of your home's palette is made of deep earthy tones.

To help you start, below are four colors typically considered to be 'risky' by designers, but that they all agree would make very fashionable additions against current interior design trends.

1. Red

In a lot of ways, decorating with red is one of the most obviously risky color choices — it's bold, it's powerful, and it's full of personality. It's also a favorite in the design world as of late. So, what's the designer take?

"People are often afraid to use red because of its boldness, but it is the undisputed powerhouse among colors, and has long been infused into interior schemes as a source of energy and excitement," London-based designer Erik Munro explains.

One of the main reasons it's such a striking choice is because it's still technically part of an earthy color palette. "Red draws from the natural world's vivid palette — roses, blood, and fire — all evoking a sense of passion, love, and authority. So naturally, when we see this color in a space, it ignites our inner lion and stirs our instincts," says Erik.

While the risky among us might be drawn to a color-drenched red room (which can be very beautiful when done well, as you can see above), Erik adds: "I find using red in my schemes either sparingly with restraint — such as a carefully curated painting or cushion — or employed boldly in an all-encompassing display, such as a floor-to-ceiling lacquered red library, works best."

"Nothing should be unexpected in design but rather considered and engaging — this 'unexpected red theory' is simply a new generation discovering how to work and experiment with color, which is fantastic," Erik adds. And, if you are going to use red, be bold and go for big contrasting colors. "The front door to my pastel powder blue house is a bright coral red, and it looks magnificent," the designer adds.

2. Lilacs and Purples

Decorating with purple is definitely one of the more controversial design decisions, but it's one with a high reward if you are willing to take the risk. As moodier colors have become more favored in design, deep plums and aubergines are the obvious choice amongst purples.

These deep shades can feel enveloping and cozy within a space, but they can also feel sexy and bold; it's all in how you use them. A purple sofa can be a really rewarding risk to take, while a tonal drench can take the edge off.

Or, you can opt for a purple on the other end of the scale. "I have been on a lilac kick for some time now, and I'm enjoying seeing it appear more often in various hues," says Scott Maddux. Lilac doesn't have to be part of a strict pastel color palette; pair it next to a deep aubergine and watch it shine.

3. Punchy Natural Greens

The next risky color worth introducing? Sour greens and bold variations of this natural color. "I think minimalism and the 'wellness aesthetic' have championed beige for too long now, and I am excited to see even these genres embracing deeper mineral shades like the vast array of greens that occur in nature, creating spaces that still feel calm," says Scott.

Yes, that's right, even a bold chartreuse green or lime can still be grounding. "There is so much color in nature to draw from, and I find beige a bit of a design cliché," says Scott. "I love seeing the bright springy green of the kitchen at the end of the moody hallway, drawing you into the light-filled room."

Rather than a risk, a more interesting green color trend becomes an exciting contrast or an energetic relief against other, more traditional shades. But to take a risk with green, you don't necessarily have to go light and bright. Olives and khakis become more interesting when you amp up the saturation or undertones.

"In our Parkside project, we used an 'ugly' shade of sludgy khaki green, which in its own right was kind of revolting, but was the perfect shade of sludge to set off the lilacs and ochres in the room," says Scott. Creating the right amount of contrast in design helps the 'risk' feel more balanced.

4. Chocolatey Browns

Chocolate browns may not seem like a huge risk, especially in today's design world. However, when you begin to implement them in your own home, the darkness and rich saturation can be an intimidating contrast in actuality. But decorating with brown in a cozy living room or moody entertaining space creates a fashionable and enveloping atmosphere.

"I definitely have a thing for chocolate browns in a space," says Scott. "Especially as a lacquer paint finish or a large decor moment, like a carpet. These types of applications make brown feel rich and exciting and evoke the sexiness of the 70s, like a fantastic David Hicks interior," adds Scott.

"Color is also a great device to help you transition or move from room to room," says Scott. "Catching a glimpse of a bold contrasting color in the next room draws you into it, and keeps your journey through the house surprising and delightful."

He urges you to consider these risky colors just as you would with an outfit; "Use color to underline something, or to throw it off." Ultimately, risky colors are just colors that are bold in saturation or go against the other colors in your home. While they may feel intimidating to try, high risk reaps high reward.

For more inspiration, subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.

Over the last few months, the interior design world has been hinting at an earthy revival. Moody olive greens have emerged alongside warm terracottas and calming light blues, shaping how we interact with our homes heading into the new year — we want our spaces to feel grounded, lived-in, and stylish but ultimately comfortable. That said, I must admit I was still slightly shocked to read Dulux call 'Soulful Sage' its Color for the Year for 2027.

But when you really think about it, and after the initial surprise wears off, Soulful Sage starts to make a lot of sense. Rather than strictly analyzing quantifiable color trends and cyclical styles, Dulux chose its color of the year based on a common theme or attitude: to bring joy despite the turmoil of the modern world, and to 'live lightly'. Soulful Sage is a soft green, with grayish undertones that further promote that sense of serenity and calmness. However, it's also bright and joyful, and has deep-rooted ties to the natural world.

It may look like a simple pastel, but there is a lot of nuance. Especially when paired with Dulux's three color stories, it's not the dull, tired sage green of years past; it's the light-hearted base of the more contemporary earthy color palettes that we will see dominate 2027's interiors.

Honestly, I shouldn't have been surprised to see a reinvented sage green slated for 2027's color of the year. So far, every color-of-the-year prediction has pointed to some new version of earth tones, with greens taking the lead. The central theme is that we're still decorating with color, but we want our homes to feel grounded — exciting, saturated, or joyful earth tones scratch that color itch while still acting as a neutral in most scenarios.

As for Soulful Sage specifically, the Dulux team explains that the decision was made after consulting design experts from every continent during the brand's Trend Forecast brainstorm. This year's overriding insight was, unsurprisingly, that everyone feels weighed down by world events and swamped by digital overload. A rebalancing is needed, and Soulful Sage was created to give people the opportunity to create lighter spaces for a lighter life.

No color in the color wheel or in the natural world is as timelessly grounding as green — decorating with green represents healing, growth, and wisdom. And the slight silveriness of Dulux's Soulful Sage makes it that much more radiant and 'light'. Plus, a palette comprised of green color trends is one of the most soothing color combinations, as it echoes the shades of the natural environment around us.

However, decorating with sage green on its own is a fast track to a 'flat' palette, so to help people bring the shade into their own homes, Dulux created three curated color stories — Glow, Light, and Lift. Each palette offers a different way to decorate and create a home that feels a little lighter.

Glow

Glow explores how paint palettes and decorating ideas that feel more 'real' can help balance the dominance of the growing digital world. In the Grow color story, Soulful Sage is paired with a warm color scheme. It's the most saturated of the color stories, but again, still very rooted in earth tones.

The main colors are clay, terracotta, and stone — classic colors that feel authentic, familiar, and comforting. "Glow is the warm hug of the three palettes. Earthy shades like Clay Walls, Cinnamon Sprinkle, and Spiced Honey bring that familiar, grounding quality, while Violet Storm and Soulful Sage add a slightly unexpected freshness that stops the scheme feeling too heavy," says Marianne Shillingford, creative director and color expert at Dulux.

"I love it for living rooms, dining spaces and bedrooms — anywhere you want to settle in, get comfortable and feel really at home," adds Marianne.

Light

Light is the color story for those who want to lean into the airy, sensory-conscious color side of things. It's the most neutral, muted, and gray-toned. It's also the most classically nature-inspired palette and feels very spa-like. The idea with this story is to 'declutter' through color.

"Light is all about creating visual breathing space. Quiet shades like Whispered Blue, Ashen White and Arctic Pebble sit beautifully with Soulful Sage for something soft and restorative, while deeper colors can be used to add definition and depth," says Marianne. And although the overall mood is light and airy, colors like Faded Indigo and Double Espresso bring that much-needed contrast.

As for where to use it, "It would work wonderfully in a bedroom or bathroom, but equally in a busy kitchen or home office where you want the surroundings to feel simple, calm, and uncluttered," adds Marianne.

Lift

Dulux's Lift color story leans back into a more energetic vibe, but with a softer application than the deeper, more saturated shades of Glow. Lift was created to give your interior a truly lighthearted feeling that 'leaves space to dream'.

A mix of yellow-y ochres and soft pinks, alongside Soulful Sage, of course, Lift is optimistic and, well... uplifting. Marianne says, "Lift is where we get a little more light-hearted. The soft warmth of Taupe Pink alongside the sunny optimism of Honey Bear brings out a much more joyful side to Soulful Sage, while shades like Fern Forest can add a richer hit of color."

Dusty pinks are, after all, another favorite choice for the upcoming year, so combining them with Soulful Sage and yellow-tinted khakis might just be the new way to do pink and green. "It's brilliant for sociable spaces such as kitchens and living rooms, or anywhere you want to introduce color in a way that feels joyful, positive and full of personality," says Marianne.

In an interesting turn of events, it looks like we will be deciding between olive and sage green when decorating our homes in 2027. Luckily, shades like Soulful Sage invite those feelings of freedom, serenity, relaxation, and familiarity associated with nature indoors.

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

It's easy to think of the bedroom as the problem child. Combining function and form in its footprint is a tall order, especially if you want to fit in a decent-sized bed alongside other furniture. Rachel Chudley, director of Rachel Chudley Interior Design, suggests reframing the way you approach decorating it. "[They] can be a really great opportunity to make a big impression, because if you want to lean into a certain concept, you’ve got a smaller space to properly conceive and carry it out," she explains.

Of course, if you're working with a bedroom with no built-in storage, there are extra challenges. Your furniture will need to work harder — think hidden wardrobe space on runners and ottoman beds. Though if you know how to maximize the room's height and square footage, you can create a harmonious space without it looking in any way cluttered.

We've asked some of our favorite designers to share their tricks for designing stylish bedroom storage that feels cozy in the right way. Here's how to do it.

1. Max Out Your Room's Height

Built-in storage can be used to make full use of your room's height. It's a technique that pays off at this South London home, designed by Louise McGarry, creative director of Studio Braw.

"In this bedroom, we reset the wardrobes into the alcoves on either side of the fireplace so that they don't eat so much into the floor space in the room," she explains. "The wardrobes are as high as possible to utilize the space."

It's worth investing in custom storage to transform other dead spaces, too. "We built in storage around the door into the room's en suite so it looks like part of the wardrobe but is in fact a secret door," Louise adds, referring to the same tiny bedroom.

Another smart trick used in this room is the addition of a striking wallpaper at the head of the bed to add a focal point without taking up any space.

2. Dream Big, Just Shrink the Scale

When designing a bedroom, interior designer Rachel Chudley insists you shouldn't consider the limitations of its size, but rather see it as the perfect place to create a singular vision.

"I think an easy trap people fall into with small bedrooms is thinking that they have to pare everything back, paint it white, and put as little as possible in there. But actually, it's a great opportunity to make a big impression," she says. "If you want to carry off a pattern, a small room is often the best place to do that. You can also lean into the cozy nature of a spare room, and if you go in with a clear intention, it won't feel too cluttered."

For example, at this project in east London's De Beauvoir, her team themed the entire space around a statement antique kimono that was chosen to cover a sliding door. They added perfectly proportioned pieces, leaving enough floor space free to make the room easy to move around. "The kimono inspired a bespoke bed with incredible bamboo details, and we did the same with the bedside tables," she explains. "The rug on the floor is an Art Deco original with detail that ties it all together. The room doesn’t feel cluttered as everything is cohesive," Rachel notes.

3. Yes, Storage Beds Can be Chic

Christian Bense, founder of Christian Bense studio, is a dab hand at designing rooms with plenty of hidden storage.

"The downside of a small bedroom is often the compromise on storage," he admits, though he suggests dividing it between functional pieces of furniture to maximize the space. Beyond built-in storage, he says not to forget about your bed. "Drawers are great, but having a full storage divan where you can lift the whole of your mattress and access the full length and width of the underside is the best way forward. I'm surprised that more people don’t do this, especially in kids' rooms or guest bedrooms," he says.

"The lift mechanisms are so easy to use, and you can use it while the bed is made, so there really isn’t an excuse that it's not a practical everyday solution. I literally use mine daily," he adds. If you want to splash out on a bespoke design, Christian recommends Robert Langford. If you prefer to hide your divan, a linen coverlet that reaches the floor is an elegant choice which will add texture and warmth.

4. Invest in Practical Vintage Pieces

If you want a characterful bedroom that makes the most of its footprint, Laura W Jenkins, founder of Laura W Jenkins Interiors, suggests seeking out vintage and antique pieces that double as storage.

"My biggest tip is to use multipurpose furniture and to maximize wall space if you have it," she says. Adding: "Think about using a great glass-front cabinet to store shoes or bags — put your beautiful fashion items on display. Use a tiered table as a nightstand, which doubles as a bookshelf and table. Or go with an option that has both a storage drawer and an open shelf."

5. Choose Multi-Functional Furniture

Natasha Lyon, founder of the Margate-based interior design studio Appreciation Project, takes a lot of her inspiration for practical layouts from boutique hotels, which squeeze beds, wardrobes, and desks into small spaces. In this London loft conversion, she combined pops of color and used sustainable materials to create custom furniture that clearly 'zones' areas while creating a sense of flow and openness.

"I'm always thinking of our mental health when it comes to designing spaces, and I liked the idea that when you wake up in the morning you are facing the window, the birds and the trees," she shares. "With the desk space neatly constructed behind the bed, it's out of sight, out of mind."

The project also has cleverly concealed storage. "We plotted a pull-out wardrobe under the eaves, allowing every nook and cranny to be useful," she adds.

For more inspiration for your bedrooms and storage, sign up to the Livingetc.com newsletter.

People will happily splash out on a marble worktop, or invest in a state-of-the-art stove, but when it comes to expensive cabinetry, people often feel less inclined to spend the big bucks. But when it comes down to it, your cabinetry is the backbone of your kitchen, and it's well worth spending a little bit extra for the clever functions they can bring into your kitchen.

You may think the standard offerings are good enough for your kitchen drawer planning, and while they will certainly do the job, there's a lot to be said for the convenience, beauty, and ease a custom design can offer. "Most kitchens are based on standard modules, which inevitably creates compromises," explains Søren Lundh Aagaard, who not only owns Danish kitchen brand Garde Hvalsøe, but is a cabinetmaker himself, giving him an in-depth understanding of exactly what a custom cabinet design can do. Instead of forcing your kitchen to fit these standard modules, Søren says, "As cabinetmakers, we can work with the dimensions that are actually there, using the space fully and creating something intended to remain relevant for many years."

From hidden internal drawers to inserts designed specifically for your favorite utensils, there's an endless list of genius, customized features you can integrate into your kitchen drawers when you're willing to spend a little bit more on your cabinetry. And no one knows that better than kitchen designers, which is why I asked them to share their favorite genius drawer features to include in luxury kitchens. So if you're planning a remodel any time soon, you may want to take notes.

1. Internal Drawers

The best thing about custom cabinetry is that a drawer never has to be just a drawer, despite how it may look at first glance. Just take internal drawers as an example. Though they may look like your standard, deep drawer from the exterior, once you open it up, you'll be met with layers of smart, organized kitchen storage.

It's a technique you'll often find popping up in luxury, modern kitchens, and is a favorite of Rachel Davis-Zavala, who frequently includes them in her designs at Harvey Jones Islington. As she explains, "Internal drawers can make particularly good use of a deep cabinet because they retain a simple exterior while creating several very practical layers of storage inside."

They can help simplify the way you organize your kitchen drawers. You could combine a deep lower drawer for chinaware with a hidden internal drawer above for cutlery, or a deep pan drawer with space for utensils to be stored above.

It's these kinds of details you can discuss in depth when working with a bespoke cabinetmaker. “These are details we spend a lot of time exploring with clients in our showrooms because opening a drawer and seeing how the internal storage works is very different from looking at it on a drawing."

2. Clever Customizations

The benefits of custom-made kitchen cabinetry go far beyond looks, and oftentimes, the smartest features are the ones you don't even notice at first.

For Søren, the marker of a truly exceptional drawer is in how it reflects the clients it's made for. Or, more specifically, "It is when a drawer has been designed around the person using it," he says.

The design of your drawers should be catered specifically to you and your unique needs, reflecting how you cook and use your space. "This might mean a drawer made to the exact dimensions of your favorite kitchen utensils, integrated knife storage, or simply using a few extra centimeters that would otherwise have been lost." It can look different for everyone, and therein lies the beauty.

As Søren so aptly puts it, "True luxury, to us, is when something feels completely natural to use because it has been made specifically for you."

3. Pan Drawers

"Good drawer design removes lots of tiny frustrations from everyday life," says Rachel, and there is no kitchen issue quite as frustrating as figuring out how to store your pans.

In small kitchens and large ones alike, the one consistent thing seems to be the lack of logical spots to keep your pots and pans, and no matter what, you're left with a precarious tower of cookware, constantly one gust of wind away from clattering to the ground.

Which is exactly why, in her custom designs, Rachel always specifies deep drawers for storing pans. This simple inclusion can completely transform how you use your space, making cooking enjoyable rather than stressful. "Instead of stacking pans at the back of a cupboard or searching through utensils, everything comes towards you and has a logical home," she says.

As well as deeper dimensions, Rachel also often recommends opting for full-extension drawers, which she says "are particularly useful because you can see and reach everything inside," and also save you from awkwardly shimmying your favorite frying pan out from the back of a cupboard.

4. Habit Drawers

One of the best things about investing in custom cabinetry is that you can shape it to support your unique habits and patterns, whether that be tea drawers or a built-in coffee nook; these specialist additions are the little things that make your kitchen feel uniquely your own.

This is one of the features Rachel loves adding to her designs, saying, "I also love bespoke drawers designed around a particular ritual, whether that’s a perfectly organised tea and coffee drawer beneath a breakfast station or spices positioned exactly where you prepare and cook food." With this feature, the more personal it is, the better. It's an opportunity to do something that feels truly reflective of your lifestyle.

No matter what form it takes, the hope is that it helps to make your life easier, removing some of the friction from your day-to-day. As Rachel puts it, "The real luxury is having storage created to suit how you genuinely use the kitchen rather than expecting you to adapt to it.”

Custom-Vibe Kitchen Buys

Not ready for a full kitchen refurb? These helpful buys can help you bring a bit of that luxury feel to your home for less.

While the experts certainly make a strong case for bespoke cabinetry, we know that it's not always a feasible option for all. But there are still plenty of budget-friendly, rental-safe ways to bring a little more structure and order into your kitchen storage. And this tiered cutlery organizer is one of them.

For even more helpful tips and design ideas, why not subscribe to our newsletter?

Forget stacked coffee tables and bookshelves featuring spines turned inward: the interiors crowd is turning to the library table to show off impeccable taste. The feature comes in different forms — a round pedestal table in a hallway, a long console table behind the sofa in a living room — but one thing that unites library tables is the eclectic collection of books, magazines, and objets strewn across the surface, effortless in appearance but curated to reflect one's passions and taste.

"A library table is one of the most personal elements you can introduce into a home," says interior designer Zoe Feldman. "It becomes a place to display the books, objects, and collections that tell the story of who you are and what interests you. I love library tables because they bring warmth, character, and a sense of soul to a room. They create an opportunity for layering and curation, while also giving a space a feeling of permanence and lived-in sophistication."

Here's how.

Why Are 'Library Tables' Trending?

A library table acts as a moment of pause and an analog distraction — and works particularly well in a hallway, dining room, living room, or office for that reason. "Ours serves as a desk when we need it, but [is also] a place for keepsakes and inspirational things, items, and collections we want to keep in mind and be inspired by in our work, as well as during our daily rhythm," says Russell Pinch, co-founder of Pinch London. "If we're passing by, it encourages us to pause for a moment and dip into the spread of materials and ideas laid out, even if only briefly."

What's particularly interesting is what the library table says about how we present ourselves — and how it ties into a wider trend towards so-called "intellectualism". The rise of celebrity book clubs; the book as fashion accessory; the boom in cultural video essays and heavily hyperlinked Substacks — these all point to an increasing appetite for being, or at least appearing to be, well-read. And how better to demonstrate this at home than with a curated library table?

How to Style a Library Table

"I think people are increasingly interested in surrounding themselves with things that feel meaningful and reflective of their identities," says Zoe Feldman. "A library table offers a way to make those interests visible."

"Whether it's books on art, travel, history, fashion, or fiction, what you choose to display says something about your curiosity and perspective," she adds. "A library table invites conversation and offers a glimpse into the homeowner's interests. It reflects a desire for homes that feel personal, thoughtful, and intellectually engaged."

In this way, the library table feels like an analog response to our digital age — proof that you're still discerning at a time when social media delivers ready-made taste via algorithm. "I think there's a lot of truth in that," says Zoe. "At a moment when social media can create increasingly homogeneous interiors, a library table offers an opportunity to express something genuinely individual. The books you've collected, the objects you've brought home from travels, the pieces you've inherited or discovered over time all tell a story that can't be replicated by an algorithm. Displaying them creates a home that feels rooted in personal experience rather than trends. It's one of the simplest ways to bring authenticity, personality, and a strong point of view into a space."

Of course, curating your library table is an entirely personal endeavor, but Russell and Zoe have some tips. "Try not to get too hung up on a 'final look'," says Russell. "It's more enjoyable to view it as an ever-evolving source of inspiration, a reflection of personal tastes and a way to capture what you've been up to."

On a practical level, built-in cable management, he says, keeps the space clear and clutter-free. Plus, "Isokon's Gull book stand is a brilliant place to rest postcards or books with pages opened, perhaps rotated daily to change up the energy."

To arrange your coffee table books, "create several stacks of varying heights and choose titles that genuinely reflect your interests," says Zoe. "From there, layer in a few sculptural elements to introduce contrast: a lamp, a vase of flowers, or a beautiful bowl can help break up the horizontal lines created by the books."

The best library tables, she says, are never truly finished. "They evolve as your interests evolve: new books are added, objects are moved around, and meaningful pieces find their way into the mix over time," she explains. "That's what makes them so compelling. They're living reflections of the people who inhabit the home."

It’s a question worth asking yourself before you commit to a new kitchen scheme: if you were going to live in this home for a long time, do you think you would still be in love with the color you choose after five years? What about 10 years?

There’s something to be said about embracing what you love, regardless of both trendiness and timelessness. Choose something that’s on trend? It’s a shortcut to being tired of your kitchen color choice in a couple of years. Only considering timelessness? There’s not much room for creativity or layering in your own personal preferences.

It’s easier said than done. Separating your own taste from what you’re fed by the algorithm isn’t easy, but if you interrogate your choices, you might just find the real reason behind your decision. To give you some examples, I asked some of my favorite kitchen designers to give their insight on what they would choose for their own kitchens if they knew they were living with it (and, hopefully, loving it) for the next 10 years.

Contrasting Colors

For Matthew Andrews, this question isn't a hypothetical. "We've actually just bought a house in the countryside, an old cottage dating back to the 1800s, and we're extending it at the moment," he explains. Instead of playing it safe and choosing a neutral, Matthew wants to highlight the contrast in the architecture between the original house and the new kitchen extension.

"I'm planning to pair tiled flooring with a moody, darker green door front, then bring in a big pop of color — something like Caravan from Paint & Paper Library, set hard against Nori, also from Paint & Paper Library, or Mid Azure Green from Little Greene. Then a timeless marble worktop on the back wall and sink run to pair with the green, and a full butcher block worktop on a dairy table island in the Caravan finish. That combination gives you a scheme with real visual interest."

It's a very specific choice, yes, but there's a wider lesson in Matthew's choices here. "Done properly, contrasting colors don't fade or date the way a single safe or trendy color eventually will — if anything, I think they get more characterful with age. It's the kind of scheme I'm confident we'll still love in 10 years."

2. Something Deep and Dark

Kitchen brand Roundhouse is one of those design studios that I think balances innovation with timelessness really well, so I'm interested to hear what its designers would pick for their own kitchen colors.

First up, senior designer Allison Lynch, who picks (another) Paint and Paper Library shade — Squid Ink. "It’s got depth; it’s easy to pair with timber, tiles and soft furnishings," Allison explains. "It is a timeless color. It ties in with the green from the garden."

For junior designer Isabella Pacelli, it's another dark shade — Little Greene's Invisible Green. "I love greens and think they’re very timeless," Isabella says. "This green has a really nice earthy muted tone to it, and feels calm and elevated without being too dark and moody."

3. Something Unexpected

Choosing something a little bit different is William Durrant's secret to still loving your color choice year after year. "My own kitchen is light blue, with a burgundy and red pantry. It's an unusual color combination, but it works well: bright enough to make a statement, but not too dark, as the space has low ceilings."

It's more personal in its execution, and less about choosing a timeless kitchen color.

Earthy Neutrals

“Colors that have real longevity are ones that are adaptable and versatile," suggests Emily Newmarch, a design consultant at Kitchens by Holloways.

So, what kind of color would she choose for a kitchen if she couldn't change it for the next 10 years? "Earthy tones tend to be colors that never go out of style, such as warm taupes, deep mushrooms, and muted greens, or, as an alternative to paint, a wood-paneled kitchen is a style that can work in both traditional and modern settings."

"Your kitchen is a long-term investment, so it’s vital to select a color that continues to feel calm and sophisticated but also functional," Emily adds.

Off-White and Timber

While some of the designers offered bold choices for their 10-year kitchen picks, Jayne Everett of Naked Kitchens suggests she'd keep it classic. "I would definitely choose a warm off-white combined with timber," she says. "I love this look, and I know when I revisit it in 10 years, I will still love it. The scheme can be pulled together using a bolder wall color and grounded with a neutral floor; I always love the warmth of timber for this," she adds.

As William Durrant suggests, as long as you're considering how a color functions, not just how it looks, you'll have a scheme that endures. "Instead of worrying about the timelessness of your choice, consider the size of your kitchen and the amount of natural light it gets," he says.

But whether you've got a small kitchen, a dark kitchen, or a bright, open, airy one, if you're looking for more inspiration, why not sign up to the Livingetc newsletter?

Announcing our color crush has become one of my favorite ways to ring in the month. Not only does it help set the mood for the next few weeks, but it's also a lovely way to keep expanding our color palettes and how we interact with new and nuanced shades. September is one of those months that can sometimes feel like an 'in-betweener'. True summer is over; we are gearing up for a cozy fall, but the weather forecast still calls for pretty high temperatures. So in the spirit of this month's transitional vibe, we've dubbed Denim Rush as our latest color crush.

Denim Rush is one of those blues that instantly feels both timeless and contemporary — it's inspired by your favorite pair of jeans, after all. And right now especially, I think we are seeing a resurgence in familiarity, comfort, and nostalgia in color trends — Denim Rush fits right into that. It's bold and on the darker side, but still technically a mid-tone blue. And the muted tone gives it a liveability that other blues (like true navy and electric blue) lack. Again, is any color more classic than that of your favorite denim?

And while our most recent color crushes, like August's bold pink and July's Mango Swirl, feel perfectly in line with summer weather, Denim Rush is confidently stepping into a new season, aesthetic, and design atmosphere. It can be bold, muted, or moody, and the best iterations of this blue will somehow capture a bit of all of that. Here's everything you need to know to decorate with it.

What Color Is Denim Rush?

So, you probably have an immediate color in mind for 'denim' blue — something deep, possibly a bit faded, and super liveable. And that's pretty much exactly how we are defining this shade of blue. But to put it in terms of the color wheel, "Denim Rush sits comfortably within the blue hues that lean slightly towards purple," explains interior color expert Fiona de Lys. "It has a mid-tone shade weight, and it sits back a few subtle tones towards gray."

Those subtle gray and purple undertones are what give Denim Rush its depth and make it more relaxed than other, bolder shades. Ultra Azure, for instance, is a similar but very saturated color. "I describe Denim Rush as an early autumn blue with a hint of periwinkle and gray for play and mood," adds Fiona. "I'm reminded of late evening walks under a slightly brooding sky, where a hint of purple lingers from the setting sun."

Decorating with light blue and navy is a classic choice, whereas a mid-tone blue can be trickier to incorporate. It can easily read as dated, but when you have the right balance of hue, tints, tones, and shades, it becomes an equally timeless and fashionable color. Denim Rush is quickly becoming my top choice for pre-autumn decorating. It's cozy, moody, and pairs with almost everything.

How to Use Denim Rush in Interiors

Decorating with blue is relatively easy, as it's a natural color that also brings a sense of calm. However, to bring Denim Rush into your home's color palette effectively, try fully leaning into the specific mood this shade creates. Rather than any old blue, Fiona explains that "Denim Rush evokes a sense of bringing the day to an end, a winding down of a fun day outdoors, rather than a freezing cold winter's day." Therefore, it works really well for cozy spaces. "Think bedrooms, snugs, and living rooms accented with other colors," adds Fiona.

A Denim Rush color drench will envelop a cozy living room or bedroom when you want a wellness-forward space. Plus, this paint application will make the shade feel a bit more modern.

However, don't feel stuck to a drench. Denim Rush is one of those colors that would work really well on larger furniture items and decor. It adds a pop of color, more interesting than the common neutral, but 'safe' enough that you can easily style it with a range of colors and textures.

The inherent earthiness means a lot of other colors go with blue. So, even if you go bold, you can still incorporate Denim Rush in most palettes. But if the goal is a well-balanced, cozy space (and isn't that what we are all after?), warmer colors will provide that essential balance in design and make this blue pop.

And to get specific, Fiona says, "Given its tone and hue, Denim Rush works well with burnt Sienna and tan for smooth pairings, or mustard yellow and paprika for more vibrant pairings." Alternatively, "Purple and red for bold, tense pairings," she adds. It really all depends on how calm or maximalist you want your room to be.

"I wouldn't hesitate at all to put all these colors together as a complete palette," she adds. Decorating with Denim Rush really is like styling your favorite jeans — it goes with everything!

I think I've just been convinced that a denim, mid-tone blue is the new color to ring in the start of Autumn. And while we are totally crushing on Denim Rush, be sure you don't accidentally choose a blue paint color designers say to avoid.

And if Denim Rush has you wondering how to actually bring the shade home, our Design Lab by Livingetc stylist, Miaad, has curated a 20-piece Denim Rush collection, from furniture to smaller accents, to show just how versatile it can be.

For endless color inspiration, be sure to subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.

Here at Livingetc, we're constantly covering some of the most beautiful properties across the globe. From petite city apartments to sprawling country homes, every project has its own unique charm, reflecting both the visual culture of the country they come from and the personal style of the designers behind the homes.

We know, though, that time is precious, and we don't all have hours to spend scrolling through home after home, hunting for new ideas and inspiration. I, however, have just done exactly that. And even better yet, I get to call it 'work'. I've looked at each and every beautiful house tour from the past month, picking out my favorite features and figuring out which have left the strongest impression, before narrowing it down to my ultimate favorites. It's a tough task, but someone's got to do it.

What I love about these modern homes is how distinct their identities are. Each one tells a story, revealing a glimpse of its inner life and how it translates into an exterior presence. To me, these homes capture everything we love at Livingetc. They're incredibly stylish, of course, but they also have character and a unique depth that makes them truly stand out.

If this hasn't satisfied your craving for beautiful homes, Livingetc's 2026 Style Awards House of the Year is unmissable.

And for even more inspiration, why not sign up for the Livingetc newsletter? All the latest home tours and design ideas will be delivered directly to your inbox.

In many ways, September marks the beginning of the end of the year — it's when we slowly start to reflect on the year that's been, the designs that have defined it, and think about which trends will endure, shaping the year ahead. And after an email from US paint brand Behr landed in my inbox last week, announcing its Color of the Year prediction for 2027, I was quickly reminded of the fact. It's time!

Safe to say, this year has been colorful. So what can we expect in 2027? Well, Behr's prediction, Grounded, a deep, muddy olive green, has a comforting character and strong natural ties. In a way, it feels both obvious and surprising. On the one hand, earthy olive greens have been sidelined this year in place of more vivid green color trends like sour apple and chartreuse, which feel more personality-driven and experimental. But that's not to say it's ever been 'out of style', and as they always do, the scales look to be rebalancing in 2027, with softer, muddier variations of the same bold color trends resurfacing.

And as more color predictions trickle in and new homewares collections roll out, it's clear that people are craving this return to a more grounded, earth-inspired palette. So, what does this mean for upcoming trends, and what can we look forward to in design? Well, more of my musings on that below.

What These Early Color of the Year Predictions Mean for Design

In our hyper-online world, and with AI growing ever more present, there is a growing desire for clear signs of humanity and natural influences in our homes. Other facets of culture, beyond just design, are experiencing this, too. For instance, the 'hiking holiday' has, for lack of a better word, become trendy, and other travel trends are following suit. Plus, analog living practices, learning how to thrift furniture and decor, and a desire for clear craftsmanship in design (think drawn-on patterns and carved wood, like the dimpled wood trend) are all growing in popularity.

In interior design trends, there's also a duality at play that's important to understanding the nuances of the new earth tones we're seeing. While we are certainly craving more natural influences, more eccentric, yet nostalgic ideas, like Kylie Jenner's jeweled birthday cake, also have their place.

I'd go so far as to say that this juxtaposition is why earthy colors are coming back, but with more interesting hues, tones, tints, and shades. It's not the same tired sage greens and bland beiges we want; it's soft baby blues, muddy olives, oxblood reds, and dusty pinks. And we still want to feel calm in our homes.

As the design team at Behr put it, "'Grounded' is designed to help you transition from the day's high-energy buzz into a more rhythmic, calming state. It's inspired by 'earth's exhale,' that quiet moment when the sun dips below the treeline."

All of this is to say that while a mossy, olive-green with rich brown undertones slated as 2027's Color of the Year might seem singular or unoriginal, it's actually a clear continuation of a collective contemporary design mindset. Character mixed with comfort, craftsmanship mixed with lived-in aesthetics.

But Behr's not the only one predicting a return to decorating with olive greens and deep forests. Lick also created a Hunter Green paint color earlier this year that's a contemporary take on a very heritage color. On a smaller scale, cooler brand Fieldbar released a limited-edition cooler in a deep 'Racing Green'. While both are slightly darker and more heritage-inspired examples, it still points to these rich earth tones continually popping up as the new wave of decorating with color.

Beyond green, Dutch Boy Paint has also announced an earthy shade as next year's color prediction: Deep Rooted, a bold terracotta with dark undertones. As for Sherwin-Williams, the brand's recently released Colormix Forecast for 2027 is another beautiful earthy color palette — ochre yellows, rich reds, light blues, and creamy whites, to name a few.

And the goal is to experiment with pairing all of these colors together. Greens and other earth tones make for interesting 'neutrals' in design. Meaning they have seemingly endless combinations and applications. The consensus is that experimenting with color will always lead to a more design-forward home, but 2027's lineup reiterates the importance of an interior color palette that soothes, comforts, and grounds us.

There may not be much we can change about growing digitalization, but designing our homes with palettes that invite that same refreshing feeling of standing in a wooded forest or the clay of a riverbed helps bring a little peace to our lives.

And the best part? You can still choose shades and saturations that have personality. Pair deep, grounding hues with unexpected lighter hues, anti-trend color combinations, if you will — because that's 2027's whole shtick, blending comforting familiarity with hyper-personal style.

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

It's funny how trends work. I'll see something I think is impossibly chic and, as I so often do, show it to my mum, expecting to receive her stamp of approval, and instead I'm met with, "That's the kind of rubbish I grew up with," which is a phrase I've heard more than once. But what strikes her as a reminder of her own parents' original home decor is, to me, the height of style. We've bickered over onyx bowls and shag pile carpets, and now, the most recent addition, textured glass light fittings.

I'm not the only one to have this experience, either. Designer David Hicks tells me, "I remember showing pieces to clients years ago and being asked why they would pay so much for something they remembered seeing in their grandparents’ house". But while some may take longer to get on board, the designers are always ahead of the curve. Having emerged as one of the biggest lighting trends of this year, these gently textured, Murano-esque lights are hard to ignore. From luxury design brands to high-street favorites, you'll find some version of this retro light style. Whether it's a dramatic, tiered chandelier or a subtly speckled table lamp, there's an interpretation for everyone.

So, I asked experts exactly what they love so much about this trend, as well as all their top tips for styling it in your own home. And, to finish it all off, I've picked out some of my favorite examples of the trend, all available to shop right now.

Why Designers Love This Style

As so many designers know, lighting is one of the most powerful tools in design. The right light fitting can completely transform the feel of a space, which is exactly why knowing how to plan your home's lighting scheme is such a crucial skill. And in the current design climate, where warmth, texture, and visible imperfections reign supreme, it should come as no surprise that textured glass has become so popular again.

As the world becomes increasingly dominated by AI, our homes become our sanctuaries, a place where we can find comfort. And where better to find comfort than in the past? A surge in nostalgic decorating trends has emerged this year, and this just happens to be one of our favorite examples.

But it's not just the nostalgia factor that's made this trend so popular; it's the way it makes our spaces feel that's so special. "It has the gorgeous ability to soften a room and give it a feminine edge," explains Fiona Begley, who often uses these lights in her designs for Barlow & Barlow. "It's perfect in a dressing room, powder room or bedroom to diffuse light and really calm a space."

The gently mottled texture and lightly colored glass bring a calming warmth into a space, providing a more diffused, subtle light than you'd find with a traditional glass light fitting.

There's also something about the lack of consistency and inherent imperfections this style of lighting brings that feels particularly appealing in this post-AI climate. "With textured glass, you have the variation and imperfection of something made by hand, which gives it a very different quality to a machine-manufactured light fitting," comments David. "The glass creates a beautiful softness when illuminated, but just as importantly, it has a sculptural presence when it is switched off."

And while they resemble the lighting that became so popular in the 70s, the style has roots that go back even further. Reminiscent of Murano glass chandeliers, Fiona says, "Murano glass has had a huge surge in popularity, with many of the big brands and suppliers copying classic styles made famous through the Art Deco period. A browse on Vinterior or 1stdibs will bring up a huge selection of lighting which can accommodate all budgets and tastes."

It's not just the designers that love this style either. In fact, the team at Livingetc love the trend so much, they gave the iconic M&S All Over Glass Table Lamp the Smart Buy award in this year's Livingetc Style Awards for lighting.

How to Style Them

With so many different variations of the trend to pick from, you can easily find a way to make this finish work with any interior design style, from contemporary to classic. The textured warmth of this finish makes for a welcome addition to almost any space.

Fiona reflects this sentiment, saying, "It's really adaptable to many settings." This is especially true for smaller, decorative pieces, like table lamps, which can easily slot into any room, adding a touch of textural intrigue. Though for the most impactful effect, Fiona admits that "a beautiful light deserves center stage."

A gorgeous, textured chandelier can easily be the highlight of a room, bringing a sense of movement and warmth that would otherwise be missing. When styled well, it should look retro, but not kitsch, an elegantly timeless addition to your space, filling it with the diffused glow of dappled glass.

"Try not to make the room fussy or overbearing and be clever with height for maximum effect," advises Fiona. With designs like this, it's best to keep the surrounding finishes simple. If you begin to bring in too many other textures or prints, your space can quickly feel overwhelming, with the various elements competing for attention. Allow the light fitting to command the attention it deserves.

David also adopts a similar approach in his designs. "I like using Murano lighting in quite restrained interiors, where the light can become an object in its own right," he says.

You don't have to opt for a massive chandelier, though. There are plenty of more subtle ways to incorporate this trend. For example, Fiona says, "We love a pair of wall lights either side of a mirror or console." A delicate table lamp or pendant light can also look beautiful, especially when paired with other Art Deco-style inspired pieces.

Shop the Trend

While this trend would look gorgeous used across the home, we're especially drawn to the idea of using it as a statement piece of living room lighting, especially when paired with earthy colors and soft, curving furniture pieces.

Stay on top of all the latest trends by subscribing to our newsletter.

Normally, I'm one of those people who clings to summer for dear life, not accepting the arrival of autumn until trick-or-treaters are at the door. But, for some reason, this year, I've found myself eagerly anticipating its arrival. A sign of maturity, perhaps; I think I may be becoming a true 'autumn person', and I'm already planning how to design my house accordingly.

It's well known that the colors you use in your home can affect your mood, which is exactly why choosing your kitchen color is such a crucial decision. It's the room you're likely to spend the most time in, so it only makes sense to choose a color that feels true to you. You want a shade that feels welcoming and relaxing, one that puts your mind at ease as soon as you enter a room. And if you happen to be an autumn person, I've found just the colors for you.

Even if you're not a dedicated autumn-lover, it's hard to deny the allure of an autumnal color palette. With all the warm, burnt oranges and sunset tones, as well as deeper, richer shades, it's a palette that works no matter the time of year, and these are the colors our experts say are the best to use in your kitchen.

1. Olive Green

While sage green kitchens may have had their moment, for a more timeless, grown-up take on the look, olive green is the way to go.

Unlike shades like pistachio and sage, olive has a beautiful depth to it, bringing more dimension into your kitchen without weighing it down. It draws on the earthy color palettes typically associated with autumn, but is slightly more neutral than the rest, allowing for a more versatile design.

Its natural warmth and easy elegance make it particularly easy to style too, especially if you opt for a warmer, earthier scheme throughout your design.

As a choice for autumn lovers, interior designer Jordan Ashkenazi notes, "It works particularly well because it pairs so effortlessly with other warm tones such as caramel, taupe, chocolate brown, soft cream, terracotta and antique brass." Sticking within this palette for your design ensures a cohesive feel throughout your kitchen, with warm earthy colors and bronze accents coming together naturally.

2. Terracotta

Warm, rich, and inviting, terracotta is one of the most captivating shades you can use in a kitchen. Evoking the sun-baked clay pots of the Mediterranean, this color tiptoes on the edge of summer and autumn, ideal for those who can't quite choose between the two.

While a red kitchen may sound intimidating at first, the unique undertones of this particular shade make it surprisingly calming. It's a color even the most committed minimalist lovers can get behind.

Take designer Mariam Prada, for example. While she typically opts for a light, neutral color palette, terracotta is an exception. As she says, "Terracotta brings warmth without the harshness of a bright red." The warm shade instead "creates an immediate sense of comfort," especially when paired with rich, textured natural materials and warm metallic finishes.

3. Burnt Orange

No color epitomizes autumn quite like the rusty hues of burnt orange. With earthy undertones of red clay and fallen leaves, this shade is autumn at its best, and it looks just as beautiful on your kitchen cabinets as it does across the treetops.

With years of experience at one of the most beloved paint brands, Helen Shaw is well qualified to offer advice on color choices, and, in her opinion, "a confident red-orange, such as Benjamin Moore's Soft Glow" is a natural choice for an 'autumn person'.

But, for a more complex look, Helen recommends moving away from the color-drenching approach and instead pairing the warm, rusty color with something a tad brighter and fresher. "Introducing a touch of unexpected contrast is a contemporary take on a straightforward color wash concept," explains Helen.

Set to become one of the next hottest kitchen trends, she says, "This season, opting for a moody mid-tone contrasted with a warm-based accent provides a surprise for the eye while maintaining a cossetting feel. Using Soft Glow in a less obvious area, such as the underside of an archway or the transition space between two rooms, is a creative way to tap into this rich and cozy autumnal look."

4. Soft Browns

"For the “Autumn person,” muted cinnamon brown is a great choice," shares interior designer Neha Gupta, adding, "It’s a warm, cozy, and earthy color between shades of brown, rust, and even terracotta."

Brown has had a real moment over the past year, and it's taken over fashion and interiors alike. We're not complaining, though; it's about time this warm, rich shade got the love it deserves, and there's no place better suited to this appetizing shade than the kitchen.

It feels unique in comparison to many other neutral kitchen colors, with Neha noting, "Because it contains a tinge of earthy colors like brown, it doesn’t feel vibrant or saturated, but has enough depth to set it apart from the mild hues usually found in many interior design schemes."

It works particularly well as an accent shade, used to accentuate specific architectural features, or on the lower cabinetry, rather than across the whole room.

5. Burgundy

If there's one color I'd argue more people should be using in this space, it's burgundy. It's a grounded color that designers love for kitchens, and it couldn't be much more perfect for autumn lovers.

It's rich, enveloping, and inviting, creating a cozy warmth that you'll never tire of. When designing spaces for self-described 'autumn people', designer Laura Hammett says, "I love leaning into richer colors for a cozy, cocooning aesthetic. These shades create an enveloping elegance that feels both contemporary and timeless." They may feel intense, especially if you're used to a bright, white kitchen, but that intensity is exactly what makes these designs feel so special.

Sitting somewhere between red and brown, burgundy feels more neutral than a true red shade, making it easier to pair with other kitchen materials and finishes. For Laura, the shade Mulberry from her paint collection is the perfect example. She describes it as "a deeply sophisticated, rich shade of burgundy that exudes warmth and elegance."

If you're now feeling inspired to inject some autumnal warmth into your space, our edit of autumnal soft furnishings is perfect for decorating in a way that feels chic rather than kitsch.

And for more color and design ideas, subscribe to our newsletter, and they'll be delivered straight to your inbox.

Dark kitchens, whether they're wood, painted, or otherwise, can bring a huge amount of warmth, depth, and character to any home. Personally, I think they just read as more sophisticated.

But they're only one part of the kitchen design story, and those dark cabinets need to be paired with the right kitchen countertop ideas if you want them to really work for your design.

Your choice of color here will inform how your kitchen feels a lot — whether you’re aiming for a bright, contemporary look or a more traditional design, this is the choice that really sets the tone. So what to pick? Here are your options, according to kitchen designers.

1. Soft Neutrals

“The mistake is assuming dark cabinetry automatically needs a bright white worktop to contrast," says Athina Bluff, founder of Topology Interiors. "Sometimes a pale surface lifts the room; at other times, a tonal dark worktop creates a far more sophisticated result.”

If you're drawn to the light side for kitchen countertop colors, Athina recommends choosing ivory, putty, or cream rather than brilliant white, allowing the dark kitchen to be lifted and softened by the lighter tones, avoiding stark and jarring surfaces that dominate the space. “It helps a dark kitchen feel calmer, lighter, and more inviting.”

2. Make a Statement With Green Marble

A dark wood kitchen, in particular, gives you a chance to try something exciting with color, and in this beautiful kitchen by Studio Braw, a rich green is an intriguing accent. The rich golden-dark cabinetry feels instantly cocooning, while the green marble countertops bring a hit of natural color and movement that keeps the scheme feeling fresh and vibrant.

"The stone is a Verde Guatemala," Louise McGarry, creative director of Studio Braw, explains. "It's the perfect combination with the golden wooden cabinets, and pairs beautifully with the walls painted in Jonquil by Edward Bulmer." The pink walls and ceiling give a playful finish to this brilliant amalgamation of contemporary and traditional features.

3. The Beauty of Aged Copper

Let’s talk copper. The soft, slightly full sheen of aged copper is glamorous, sophisticated, and offers a sheen without being too flashy or shiny. But the real beauty of copper backsplashes and counters lies in its practicality and patina. "Paired with dark cupboards, it is moody, but also very practical; every touch and mark just adds to its patina,” says Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL. "The patterns created by everyday wear and tear change the surface constantly, giving a living finish which gets better with time."

What could be better or more encouraging than making a work surface better by simply using it?

4. Embrace the Best of Both Worlds

If subtle isn’t really your style, let me introduce you to the heavily veined marble in this kitchen by Blakes. With its crisp white base and bold, dark grey veining, this countertop is designed to be seen and admired by all.

Annie Burrows, lead designer at Blakes London, explains the concept: "When working with darker cabinetry, we favor lighter natural stone worktops to create contrast without the scheme feeling stark."

However, by choosing bolder veining, it actually makes the look feel lighter. "The intricate veining and tonal depth of natural marbles, such as Arabescato Corchia, introduce warmth and movement, creating a softer transition between the light stone and darker cabinetry," Annie adds. "The result is a scheme that feels balanced, layered and refined."

So, rather than playing it safe with a barely-there pattern, the dramatic statement of the veining applies instant character to a dark wood kitchen to create the perfect balance.

5. Double Down on Dark

Now, if you’re already embracing the dark kitchen cabinetry, why not take it a step further with a dark countertop?

"Sometimes keeping everything dark and cohesive can really add to the moody look of a dark kitchen," Isabella Pacilli, junior sales designer at Roundhouse, tells me. "So rather than breaking up the scheme with a lighter surface, going tonal can create a rich and enveloping look that feels effortlessly sophisticated. Think deep charcoal, black stone, or a patterned dark marble. This certainly proves dark on dark can be anything but gloomy.

"It feels very luxurious, and in spaces with lots of natural light it doesn’t feel too dark," she adds.

6. Choose Complementary tones

Choosing a worktop that sits tone-on-tone with the kitchen’s overall color palette is a very different option in style, but most definitely works. "In this case, a gray limestone that complements the shade of the walls creates a calm and harmonious atmosphere," says Jonna Karlsson, kitchen designer at Nordiska Kök. The traditional dark wood adds depth and warmth, while the gray feels contemporary and intentional; together they create an unexpected cohesive design.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing a countertop for a dark kitchen; it’s got to work for you and your home. But there are plenty of options that will serve you well for years to come.

The beauty of dark cabinets is that they give you plenty of room to play. Go lighter for contrast and a softer, more open feel, introduce color for personality and playfulness, or simply lean into the darker tones for something rich and atmospheric.

As all of these examples show, the countertop can be so much more than just a practical surface. It’s the perfect opportunity to feature texture, color, pattern, and personality, making your dark kitchen feel completely individual and unique.

For more inspiration for your kitchen, sign up to the Livingetc.com newsletter.

From deep forest green to muted pistachio, green bathrooms have topped our interiors radar for a while now. A nature-inspired olive, emerald, or sage green et al always feels calm and collected — whether that’s for a morning shower or a relaxing soak at the end of the day.

But what makes a green bathroom feel especially luxe is the addition of warm brass fixtures and fittings — it’s that shortcut to the modern vintage mood we can’t get enough of. Crucially, though, is the green-and-brass bathroom combo a flash in the pan or a timeless choice we’ll still love in a decade from now? According to the experts, this classic duo isn’t going anywhere.

"Green works beautifully in a bathroom because it’s a color that ages very well," says Marcelina Janiszweska, head of design at Project London. "Brass details in a few well-placed fittings or handles add just the right amount of warmth and polish, which is exactly what gives a green bathroom that timeless and luxurious feel."

It’s a combination that also works incredibly well in every style of bathroom — whether you prefer modern rustic or cool and contemporary. So if you’re inspired to explore green and brass in your next bathroom renovation, here are six bathrooms that embrace the color combination oh so well.

1. Luxe Green and Brass Powder Room

It’s a well-documented design trick that one of the best places to go daring with our decorating choices is in a small space, such as a powder room. And this luxe green-and-brass cloakroom proves the point brilliantly. The bold, slightly heritage mood is classic, yes, but feels spot on for today’s storytelling interiors.

"Smaller spaces are an opportunity to be more expressive, and we wanted the powder room to feel rich and immersive," says Alexii Friedman, founder and lead designer at Studio Friedman. "The saturated green creates depth and intimacy, while the unlacquered brass brings warmth and a sense of history."

Instead of tiles, the designer used embossed vinyl wallpaper with a crocodile leather effect. The green-sheen backdrop is then highlighted with pops of brass on the taps, fittings, and wall lamps. "The combination feels inherently classic, yet still bold. I also love that the brass will continue to patina over time, adding another layer of character to the room," adds Alexii.

2. Pair Green and Brass With Vintage Furniture

Green and brass work incredibly well as a base for layering vintage pieces — and this was exactly the starting point in this bathroom by Elemental Studio.

"The clients are a young couple who love vintage, so the entire house followed that premise," explains Laurence Katz, owner and creative director at Elemental Studio. "The vanity unit is a vintage cabinet adapted for the two basins, and the counter was the old kitchen slate worktop. That way, less was thrown away from the kitchen."

As for choosing green, it’s a color that Laurence always tries to bring into her schemes to help anchor and calm other hues. "For me, green is timeless, and in color psychology, it’s the easier color on the human eye as it’s the color of nature," she adds.

Classic green metro tiles create that timeless silhouette while brass details echo the vintage brass fittings used throughout the rest of the property.

3. Add Drama With Vibrant Green

In this modern bathroom (part of an iconic Art Nouveau apartment block in Malta), vibrant green geometric tiles are offset with brushed brassware — and the result is dramatic.

"The client’s brief was to restore the space to its former Art Nouveau glory, adding a modern, contemporary touch," says James Lentaigne, creative director at Drummonds. "Vibrant green geometric tiles wrap the walls and floor while the brushed brass will develop a patina, in keeping with the historic feel of the building.

"Although the room is relatively compact, the high ceiling, large window, and continuous tiling help to give it a much greater sense of space."

If you ever needed any more push to go full green-and-brass, this might be it.

4. A Dark and Moody Jewel-Box Bathroom

We love dark, moody interiors for a cozy, personality-filled space — so a green-and-brass bathroom is the perfect color scheme to take this look throughout the home.

"This bathroom sits downstairs, off a lounge, bar, and home theater, all of which are dark and moody," says Brenda Thompson, owner and creative director of Houselift Design. "We didn’t want the bathroom to break that spell, so we carried the darker palette right through it. Same reasoning behind the black toilet — a white fixture would have pulled focus, and we wanted the mood to hold.

"Once we knew the room was going dark, green was the obvious answer. Many dark colors can get oppressive in a space this size — black closes it in, deep blues go cold, dark reds overstimulate, browns can feel heavy."

Movement and texture were key in a bathroom this dark. So the designer introduced brass fittings for a warm sheen, limewash walls for a cloud-like texture, and glazed tiles that catch the light and throw it back into the space.

"Green is also why the room won’t date,” adds Brenda. “It has staying power because of its connection to nature, and we surrounded it with classic wood, brass, and tile materials that don’t go in and out."

5. Soften With Earthy Neutrals

Green and brass might sound like a super bold choice for the bathroom — and it can be if that’s the look you want. Deep green with warmer antique brass is impactful, for sure. But it’s also a timeless combination that can be stripped back if you want to lean into a gentler bathroom decor.

The simple way to do this is to introduce a range of earthy neutrals, like sand, off-white, buttermilk, and taupe. In this classic bathroom, the mix of eucalyptus wall tiles and brass taps is softened with bands of ivory tiles on the upper half of the walls and natural linen curtains.

And to enhance the timeless yet luxurious mood, black-and-white checkerboard floor tiles introduce a crisp accent. "Rather than being tied to one particular trend, green and brass can be adapted to suit everything from a classic country bathroom to a more contemporary space, which is what makes it such a timeless choice," says Richard Skeoch, director at Hyperion Tiles.

6. Try Pale Green and Brass

The green palette is vast, so there’s a green to suit every bathroom. So if you don’t fancy a deep emerald hue, a chalky sage creates a softer silhouette with brass bathroom detailing.

"What I like is that the green on the walls has not been matched exactly to the floor," says Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra. "Pulling out a softer, chalkier version of the sage gives the room more depth — exact matching can make a bathroom feel slightly showroom-like."

"The brass then becomes a small point of polish rather than another big color statement. There’s enough yellow and warmth in the floor for brass to feel completely at home."

Grounding shades of green are emerging as one of the defining interior trends of the moment — and that includes the bathroom. "Green has enough personality to make an impact, but its natural undertones mean it is unlikely to date quickly," says Abbas Youssefi, founder of Porcelain Superstore. "Richer shades like forest, emerald and deep olive can create a cocooning, luxurious feel, particularly when paired with warm metals, natural wood and layered lighting." Green is featured in our list of timeless bathroom color choices for a reason.

And for more ideas for your bathroom and beyond, why not subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter? And all the latest will be delivered directly to your inbox.