For those of you who may not be so familiar, the karate chop is exactly as it sounds. You place a cushion on a bed, chair, or sofa and karate chop the top center to create a pronounced divot. Melbourne-based interior stylist and design educator, Loui Burke explains, "Like many styling techniques, the original intention was to make a cushion look less rigid and more relaxed and lived-in." And for a while, it did just that.

However, like many easy decorating hacks and styling tricks, the karate chop method evolved into something more rigid, formal, and too contrived. Rather than your house looking effortless, a karate-chopped cushion begins to read as amateur. So, is the karate chop method done for good? Or can this style be revitalized to meld with contemporary interior design trends? All that and more below.

The Evolution and Downfall of the Karate Chop Method for Fluffing Pillows

As mentioned, the original intention was to make a cushion look less rigid and more relaxed and lived-in. But as Loui Burke explains, "It was then adopted by the masses and became completely lost in translation. Instead of looking relaxed, cushions were positioned stiffly upright with an exaggerated chop, creating the exact opposite effect."

It almost became a case of, 'It isn’t finished unless you chop it,' when you were never meant to notice the detail at all. The cushion was meant to look inviting and as though it genuinely belongs in the space, but the exaggerated chop defeats its original purpose. "Now it looks amateur," adds Loui. "It suggests someone has picked up a design tip without considering the rhyme or reason behind intentionally disrupting a perfectly shaped cushion."

The only time a pronounced cushion chop is really functional is "when you want to leave a visual signal that a room has been cleaned and tidied, much like vacuum lines in a carpet." For instance, you might see a formal chop in a luxurious hotel bedroom, as it shows elegance and perfect tidiness. While you might not always want such prestige in your everyday home.

Those strong visual signals say, 'I've been here. I've done this.' "They turn a comfortable room into evidence of a completed task, and a clean and orderly home should not be mistaken for a put-together, styled home," says Loui. Let the space relax and feel good.

Styling cushions doesn't need to become a formula that gets overdone; pillows and throws are meant to add layers, texture, and comfort to a room. "We don't think it's necessarily out of style, but we do feel like everyone is in a more organic lifestyle world right now," say Jordyn and Barry, the masterminds behind Brooklyn-based studio, The Brownstone Boys. "Homes don't need to be so crisp and polished; they are more lived-in, and we love that people are embracing that," they say.

So while the exaggerated karate chop is a little too formulaic for the 2026 home, there are still ways to bring it back to its natural roots.

How to Style Cushions in Contemporary Homes

First and foremost, there are a few ways you can style a pillow. And in terms of the contemporary karate chop, Loui clarifies, "There is a difference between a chop and a light tap." And the latter is what you should aim for when arranging throw pillows on a couch or bed. "A gentle tap is perfectly fine if it helps the cushion look relaxed and lived-in," says Loui. Otherwise, prop the cushion up naturally and let the fabric and design be seen. So, relaxed cushions get a tap; formal cushions should simply be propped upright.

And further, a pillow today should be styled based on where it lives in the home. For instance, on a sofa or seating, "I generally lean cushions at a slight angle. That's it. If it needs a gentle tap to relax it, give it one. After sitting against it, fluff it back into shape and lean it again," says Loui. If the fluff feels unnatural, you may not even need a throw pillow on your sofa.

On a bed, there is a little more styling leeway, as there are typically more pillows to style (six pillows on a bed is the designer sweet spot, while some bedrooms are more minimal).

At the moment, the approach is very much 'less is more.' However, layering in design can bring your pillow arrangement to life without feeling too 'stuffy'. On a bed, you can introduce a lumbar, bolster or pebble-shaped cushion instead of lining up five standard 45-by-45-centimeter squares. Rather than a formal chop, "I position cushions on a bed slightly more upright and straight," says Loui. "Do what works for the room, but avoid repeatedly using the same size and shape," adds Loui.

Plus, "Layering with different textures and materials is another way to get the best out of your pillows. We personally love a really versatile pillow that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing," say Jordyn and Barry of The Brownstone Boys.

The cushion insert will also make an enormous difference in how often a pillow needs 'tapping', a chop, or a re-fluff. "Use a feather insert or a lofty fiber alternative, such as corn fiber or hi-loft fill, that mimics the movement and softness of feather and down. Rigid synthetic inserts are useful for seat cushions, but they rarely create the relaxed shape you want from a decorative cushion," explains Loui.

Below are a few different throw pillows that would either look great with a relaxed 'tap' in place of the chop, or that help you ditch the karate chop method altogether.

So to sum it up, today's karate chop should always be more of a 'tap', and if the tap isn't working, then simply let the pillow talk for itself by standing it upright, or let it lean at a relaxed angle. "I know some people will think it's silly to care this much about a cushion, but the alternative really is that simple: lean it naturally or don't have it there," Loui adds.

For more inspiration like this and to keep up-to-date on all the latest bedding trends, be sure to subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.

When you underestimate the garden gate, it's likely to get cluttered, age poorly, and in turn hinder the free flow of good energy. This is one of the most important garden Feng Shui mistakes to amend before summer is over.

So, here's a closer look at what makes a garden gate a flimsy backyard feature in Feng Shui and what to consider when fixing it.

When Does a Garden Gate Let Good Energy Escape?

Feng Shui consultant Rosanna Deflorian tells me a garden gate starts blocking good energy the moment it feels unwelcoming. "If it's surrounded by clutter, blocked by overgrown bushes, or difficult to open, you're sending a signal that energy isn't welcome here. Simply put, if you have problems getting in, chi also has problems getting in," she says.

"I'm also very strict about maintenance. A creaky, broken, or rusty gate isn't just an eyesore. It actively attracts ill fortune. It's one of those things people overlook, but in backyard Feng Shui, it matters more than you'd think."

Rosanna warns that another red flag is when the garden gate is directly aligned with the front door. "This creates a straight line that lets energy rush in and out too quickly, which can affect both health and wealth. In Feng Shui, we call that a 'poison arrow'," she adds.

"I also advise against spiky plants near the gate. Cactus palms and any plants with sharp needles or thorns are not recommended. They create hostile energy that can unsettle anyone arriving."

What Makes a Garden Gate Good for Feng Shui?

For a gate that protects and welcomes good energy, Feng Shui expert Aeros Chin tells me that proportion matters most. "Size it to the house and fence and ensure that it's not oversized or flimsy. A gently curved approach path, rather than a straight line running right at it, softens incoming energy so it settles rather than rushes in," he explains.

"Material and color ideally align with the gate's compass direction. For example, black suits north, east, and southeast entrances, while red suits south, southwest, and northeast."

Aeros also recommends keeping hinges well-maintained so it swings smoothly. "I'd also keep the immediate surroundings clear and tidy," he adds. "And a small but often-missed detail is that gates that open inward are much better for Feng Shui. This direction of movement tends to symbolically (and literally) invite energy in, rather than pushing it away."

Another garden design red flag that could be tanking the inviting energy in your outdoor space deals with layout. And adjusting your outdoor furniture placement for Feng Shui is the best way to fix it.

While you're here, I recommend signing up for the Livingetc newsletter so you receive the best of design in your inbox.

Either way, rugs are clearly a very important part of the design process, and that makes picking the perfect one feel overwhelming at times. From how big it should be, what material it should be made from, whether it should be washable or patterned or both or neither, from where to buy rugs to how much to spend on them, there are almost as many decisions to be made as there are rugs to choose from.

"You get taught some principles about rugs at design school that aren't always true in the real world," says Romanos Brihi, co-founder of Studio Vero and a rug aficionado. "Teachers will say a rug needs to be big enough to fit under every piece of furniture... but actually, there are exceptions to that rule."

So let us decode the decrees, bust the myths, and simplify the process of choosing a rug, with advice straight from the minds of the experts who really know.

Size

As Romanos from Studio Vero mentioned in the intro, conventional design rules dictate that a rug ought to be big enough for every piece of furniture to sit comfortably on. "I just hate small rugs," says the designer Victoria Hagan. "They feel so mean!" But before you go and buy the largest rug on the market, there are several caveats to that approach.

"In reality, it’s ok if the sofa is only half on the rug, and the rug doesn’t go all the way under and out the back," Romanos says. "But ideally all the other furniture would be able to sit on top of it."

"A rug is one of the most important things in a room, and I start thinking about which rug to go for at the same time as I'm planning furniture placement," says the interior designer Olga Ashby. "So once you know the size of the coffee table, how far away the armchairs will be, and where the sofa will go, you can pick a rug that is just big enough it sits under them all... or at least mostly under the sofa."

Her rug size rule expands to say that if you can see the back of the sofa then the rug needs to be large enough to expand out 10 inches (25cm) more than the sofa's edge (like in the image above, of one of her projects in Paris), whereas if the sofa is against the wall then the rug needs to be just big enough to be placed under the sofa's front feet by about 8-10 inches.

For dining rooms, a rug needs to be large enough for the table and chairs to sit on it in the middle, with at least 10 inches of overlap behind the back of the chairs, while when it comes to bedroom rugs, there are cheats to be had. "I think of people when they first wake up as being like babies who need to be really wrapped up and looked after, and that means the first thing I want them to step on is a really soft rug next to the bed," Olga says. "A bedroom rug need only be big enough to place at the side of the bed, tucking under the edge, but doesn't need to go all the way under. If you have space, then for symmetry I like to repeat the process on the other side."

Style

"I really believe in the power of a rug to transform a room and make it look and feel so much more comfortable in an instant," Olga says. "So I always choose rugs that bring a lot of texture, that are usually wool (which I find the most comfortable), and that have a soft neutral color you can build the rest of the room on top of."

This is different from how Studio Vero approaches rug style. "We always start with a bold rug — either that, or some eye-catching art," says Romanos. "You really need a strong starting point for a room, and there is no better place for that to be than a graphic rug."

Natasha Lyon, founder of design studio Appreciation Project, has an approach that lies somewhere between the two. "People come to me because they really love color and texture and print but they don’t know where to start, and it’s wonderful showing them how good a room can be if you lean into all those things," she says. "And actually, the rug is what can make or break a space — it’s one of the most important decisions as it’s what pulls everything together and ensures the space is elegant or cozy or whatever mood it is you’re trying to evoke. I always choose the rug last, once everything else is in place, and I can see the colors in the room and how they look in the light. I’ll seek out something that exists already — perhaps it’s a hint of tobacco in a stripe or a touch of green in the background of a wallpaper - and use that as the main color for the rug. In that way, even if it’s bold and daring, it still feels connected to the scheme."

She says that in one project, above, with a contemporary floral Josef Frank wallpaper on the ceiling, she wanted something equally modern for the design of the rug. "And so I chose a big, geometric one from Nordic Knots. Even though it’s very different, it doesn’t clash because it has the same citrus tones, and a softness in the negative space of the big square pattern that allows the flowers to really stand out."

It seems that the key factors to consider when picking a rug's style are its material and colors — that you want something that feels good underfoot and that ties in to the hues already in the room (or that you plan to use elsewhere).

Materials Explained

In this section, we're breaking down the different qualities of common rug materials in terms of how they contribute to the style and the practicality of your rug design. However, not every rug is a single material. Blends often have a practical or budgetary benefit. Wool and cotton blend rugs, take this Betula flatweave rug from John Lewis as an example, combine qualities. It's more durable and plush than a cotton rug, but cheaper than a pure wool rug.

Wool blended with polyester or Nylon will again retain that plush, hard-wearing quality of wool, but again cheaper, and often with the added benefit of reduced stain resistance and 'easy clean' qualities, as those manmade fibers don't absorb liquids as wool does.

Wool

Wool rugs hit the sweet spot between durability and feeling plush underfoot, and in terms of style, they bring an opportunity to bring an organic quality to the floor through texture.

"When I visited rug brand Tai Ping's Milan showroom earlier this year, it really struck home how versatile a material wool is," Livingetc.com's editor Hugh Metcalf tells me. "Seeing the variety of shades it naturally comes in is a neutral scheme-lovers' dream, but it takes color so well that the resulting rugs are vibrant, but never have that 'artificial' feel."

"Wool rugs are amazing," echoes Hannah Sher, co-founder of Heritage Threads and a professional rug restorer. "We work with some from the 1800s, and they wear really well."

It's one of designers' favorite choices too, but there are some drawbacks to this natural material. "The biggest culprit for ruining them is moths or carpet beetles, though," Hannah explains.

If you're worried about that possibility, that's where knowing where to put them is all important. "Wool is actually best for high-traffic areas that get disturbed a lot," Hannah says. "What these pests like best is the area under sofas, those dark, undisturbed places they can feast without being noticed."

"Just keep them vacuumed and put pheromone traps down to get rid of any moths," she adds.

Wool also tends to shed, but only temporarily.

Wool rugs tend to be the most expensive styles, but you'll still find larger options starting from £500 or so.

Cotton

Cotton is easier to wash than wool — many cotton rugs can actually go straight into the washing machine, though do check if the backing specifically allows this before you try. That makes it the best for entryways, kitchens, anywhere that mess is likely to be made. The trouble with cotton is that colors tend to fade fast, especially when walked upon, so they are not a long-lasting, durable rug. "And as a result they're not a material we tend to see — they're not really worth restoring," Hannah says.

Cotton rugs are flatter, both visually and underfoot, too. They give a light, breezy effect, but not an expensive, plush look. They're often affordable, too, with larger sizes costing as little as £100 in some instances.

Jute

"This is one of the most hard-wearing materials you can have for a rug," Hannah says. "Jute will withstand pretty much any normal thing you can throw at it."

Jute is best for both budget-friendly and eco-conscious shopping — not only will a jute rug last and last (so you only have to buy once), but they are often not very expensive to start with. You can expect to find a decent-sized one for around £200.

They're made from sustainable plant fibers; they are fully biodegradable, meaning jute rugs won't sit in landfill forever once you're finally done with them. But what they have in affordability, they lack in real 'comfort' — jute tends to be slightly scratchy to walk on. This can be part of its charm — think rustic, think French vacation, think a Greek terrace — but it doesn't make for the most sumptuous living room.

Sisal

Similar to jute, sisal is just as eco-conscious (made from the fibers of agave plants) but tends to be more expensive than its counterpart. It is, however, best for pets — in my own living room, I have a large sisal rug that has withstood two puppies (now large dogs) and one cat whose favorite pastime is scratching threads out of the furniture and accessories.

However, sisal is not water-resistant and so doesn't do well with easy cleaning techniques. You can't shampoo it to get out a spot stain, and scrubbing will ruin the fibers, so don't choose sisal if you're prone to spillages.

Synthetic fibers

"Recycled plastic is becoming a very popular choice for modern rugs, as it is hardwearing and so is great for contemporary life," Hannah Sher says.

The best rug choice for a busy modern family: synthetic fibers are easy to clean, will last and last, and advances in technology have seen them become softer and softer. However, they are never really 'plush' (though recent design developments may soon see them become so), and they flatten fast, so if you're craving the feeling of sinking into a soft rug, it's better to go natural. Some synthetic materials can also cause static build-ups, too.

Brands like Ruggable are known for its Polyester rugs, which you're able to just throw in the washing machine, also.

How Are Rugs Made?

Depending on budget, rugs are either made by hand on looms, often in countries such as India and Nepal, which have been experts in the art of rug-making for centuries, or they're made by machine in a factory, mass-produced to larger scales and quantities. The latter tend to be more affordable, but the nuance of color you might get when a person is weaving each thread is likely to be less great.

Hand-knotted rugs made by individually tying thousands of knots onto a vertical loom may take many months and should last for many years. Hand-tufted rugs are faster to create and are made by a handheld tufting gun which punches yarn through a canvas - a little like a sewing machine crossed with a laser gun.

Handknotted vs Handtufted vs Machine-Made Rugs

"Hand-knotted rugs are more cleanable than hand-tufted rugs," says designer Olga Ashby. The reason for this? There is no glue used in the hand-knotting process, whereas in hand-tufting, it's a glue that holds the tufts together, and this can't withstand much water. Machine-made rugs tend to be tougher than any handmade ones, often with synthetic fibers, so they are even easier to keep clean. "But they lack the loop pile of a handmade rug, which is always just so beautiful to look at," Olga says.

Flatweave vs Pile

The pile is an important part of what to think about when wondering how to choose a rug — flatweave or with a thick, luscious pile? Both have their places in the home. "I love both," says the interior designer Alex Dauley. "It really depends on the scheme you're trying to create. For a more relaxed room I tend to go for a flatweave, while for a more luxe space I like a pile. If it's really luxe, I will look for a wool pile that has some silk in it too."

Flatweave, she says, is better for family life. "They are easier to maintain," Alex adds. "I put them in high-traffic areas like open-plan kitchen, living, dining spaces, or I will often see them as runners in entryways. Piles are what I would save for the principal bedroom or a really grown-up living room."

What's Trending in Rugs?

"I'm definitely seeing a lot more bold rugs now," Alex says when I ask her about rug trends. "There is a shift towards pattern and color, and not being afraid to use both. This plays into a general move towards a mood of exuberance, and being daring in our homes because we want them to be uplifting spaces full of joy. Because of that, I am also seeing a rise in custom rugs, usually handmade. People want to have autonomy over the colors in their rugs, and this is the best way to ensure that."

As for shapes, Alex is noticing that the classic rectangle isn't quite so common as it once was. "There is definitely a trend for irregularly shaped rugs," she says. "Some curves, some asymmetric edges. Again, this plays into people wanting their homes to feel really individual and personal to them."

Budget

Are Expensive Rugs Actually Worth It?

"Rugs can cost a lot, but they are worth every penny, for sure," says the designer Tatjana von Stein. "A rug is where you get a bit of drama, the comfort in a room, the feeling of the space. You want to step from something cool like a hardwood floor onto something warm, and you get a different sensation from a really well-made, hand-crafted rug."

Like with most pieces for the home, rug prices run the whole range. You can spend barely anything or several thousand per square inch. But as Tatjana points out, if you can afford it, you really do get what you pay for. An expensive rug usually comes with that price tag because of the hours, or weeks even, that have gone into making it, and the artistry that entails, and the sheer beauty and physical feeling you will get from it.

How Much Should You Spend?

"My favorite rug brand is Nordic Knots, as I love its colors and how durable they are," says Amber Pan, co-founder of the design studio Studio UMA. "I have suggested to many of my clients that we use this brand for it’s a heavy traffic areas, and the budget I'd expect to allow is between £3000 and £5000 for a medium-sized rug."

That is not the most she has ever spent, however. "In contrast, I have also used The Rug Company's artist collab rugs and Tan Carpet collectible ranges, which are usually on the higher end of thee price scale," Amber adds, noting a Rug Company rug can be several thousand pounds per square foot), "but they do amazing work together with artists. Because these are more expensive, I'd save them for use in a study, or hanging on a wall even. Definitely not in high traffic areas."

For a bedroom, it's worth spending more on a rug — to Olga's point earlier on how comforted you want to be first thing in the morning, the more luxe you can afford, the nicer it will feel. Because they don't have a lot of foot traffic, they will have a longer lifespan, so you might be able to justify them on a cost-per-year-of-ownership ratio. "I would often use silk in a bedroom, but only in a bedroom," says Tiffany Duggan of Studio Duggan, because it's too expensive to risk elsewhere. For living spaces, especially if you have kids and pets, it may be more sensible to keep the rug budget to under £1,000.

For under £1,000, you can afford a large, highly durable machine-made rug. Washable brands such as Hug Rug and Ruggable start at under £100 for smaller rugs and go up to around £ 1,200 for the largest and most expensive varieties. Meanwhile, jute rugs are available at brands like La Redoute for well under £100.

For between £1,000 and £10,000, you can afford a machine-made rug from a trend-led, designer favorite like Nordic Knots, while even luxe atelier Tai Ping starts at £ 1,200 for its ready-made wool rugs.

With a budget of over £10,000 you can afford to get a super-luxe brand like Deirdre Dyson, Tai Ping or The Rug Company to design a hand-made rug to your exact specifications, altering the size, color and shape to suit your precise needs.

Repair and Conservation

Depending on what sort of issue you have a rug, repair costs will vary massively. Dry cleaning a rug can be around £100-£200 to remove any stains, while holes, tears, and patching can cost anywhere from £100 to £1,500 at a company like Hannah Sher's Heritage Threads. If you have a handwoven rug and it needs to be sent back to makers overseas for repair, then the cost can usually start at around £700, all of which is worth factoring in when deciding how much to spend on a rug.

Practicalities

Stain Resistance

"Pups tend to love natural materials and do their accidents on purpose when it’s a new natural rug," Amber says, which is as good a reason as any not to lay an expensive rug in a living space. "It's important to accept that accidents happen, whatever your living situation, and to make choices on materials for rugs according to how accident-prone you are likely to be."

Low-pile options or flatweaves are the most likely to be stain-resistant as liquids and dirt can't soak and sink into them in the way they can for deep piles. And while jute and sisal are hard to clean with water, the most stain-resistant rugs are going to be washable rugs made with man-made fibers.

Loop Pile and Pet Claws

As someone who has owned many styles of rugs and one very claw-y cat, there is no getting away from it. Pet claws will ruin a rug. It's been the tighter weaves and lower piles that have suffered the most - the areas she has pulled out are most immediately noticeable. On our shaggier rugs, with looser, deeper piles, it's harder to tell as the overall effect is bigger and more abundant anyway. Our jute rug has survived pet claws the very best, with no noticeable damage at all.

Darker Colors vs Patterns

"I am not the sort of person who could ever have a white rug," says the designer Minnie Kemp. "So I go for a jute and wool mix in at least two or more different colors. if you have a few colors in a pattern, it's harder to spot the mess. I feel like darker hues show up flecks of dust, while lighter rugs show up stains. Go for a pattern as your safest best for a really practical rug. It's why we use them in hotel projects."

Washable rugs vs Wool

I have an issue with my large washable rug — it's too big to fit in the machine. So while it seemed great in theory, I've been taking it to the specialist laundromat with the large washers, and then struggling to get it dry before it begins to smell. So don't assume a washable rug is the cure for all your woes. That said, the smaller washable rug we use in the entryway folds perfectly into our home machine and comes up like new every time — you'd never know that muddy dogs trample over it on the daily.

Meanwhile, our wool rug was the home of a pet accident recently, and a spot clean with some regular carpet cleaner was all it needed to bring it back to life. So choose a washable rug for a smaller area if you think it will need regular laundering, while a wool rug is fine for larger spaces if marks are likely to be contained.

Low Pile vs High Pile

"Low pile rugs are easier to keep clean," says Minnie Kemp. "You can dab them with a cloth and get a stain out really quickly. The trouble with high pile rugs is that your wine of coffee always manages to soak into them, and take a lot more care and time to make good as new again."

Low pile rugs are therefore better for family areas, and high pile rugs are better for spaces where food isn't eaten and kids are not sipping drinks.

FAQs

Why Do Rugs Shed?

Think of a rug as your favorite sweater — both can shed from time to time as fibers get loose through wear and tear. A new rug will tend to shed a lot early on, losing loose fibers trapped in its weave during the manufacturing process, something that tends to settle down over time and after the first three or four vacuums. High foot traffic can also cause rugs to shed, as people trample fibers loose within the weave.

"The best way to avoid rugs shedding is to have them vacuumed regularly, especially at the beginning of their life," says Minnie Kemp. "You shouldn't think of shedding as being part of a problem; it's usually just a natural part of having a handmade design." Machine-made rugs tend to shed less, as their creation process is more precise.

How Long Should a Good Rug Last?

"A good rug can last years, especially if you look after it well," says designer Olga Ashby. "I actually buy rugs that are treated to be stain-resistant, and then get them re-treated every year, a process that involves a spray by a professional. This does cost money, yes, but it prolongs the life of the rug, and means it can be something you pass down for generations."

A general rule is that the more expensive and better made a rug is, the longer it will last — often because people tend to treat these better. A budget rug in a house with pets or children can reasonably be expected to last between three and five years before starting to look tired and need replacing.

Are Washable Rugs Worth It?

Yes, washable rugs are worth it, especially if you want to lay a rug in a high traffic area, or have pets and kids or are prone to spillages yourself. A regular-sized rug can fit in a home washing machine and be dry by the next morning, ready to be replaced back in its position. Washable rugs tend to be cheaper than handmade designs, and are more resistant for stains (which can be washed right out of them with ease), meaning they are definitely worth it.

Where washable rugs fall down is if you have a large space and large washable rug, which will be too big to fit in your at-home machine and take so long to dry it will often start to smell before it does.

Now, don't get me wrong — I accept that kitchen island trends are transitory. The pursuit of an ever-fashionable home is entirely unattainable, but there are certain trends that are more enduring than others. Painting every kitchen island a different color from the rest of your joinery just isn't one of them.

My main objection? Your kitchens are beginning to look like patchwork. While I'd favor this Frankenstein-esque jigsaw puzzle over a soulless, all-gray kitchen with utilitarian fittings, a bit of cohesion will always look visually cleaner and calmer in a functional space like a kitchen (especially when your space is small). I'm not alone in this sentiment, either. Halfway to 2027 and kitchen styles are already evolving again, with designers favoring a little more harmony this time round. Here's how they're planning kitchen designs that feel more sleek, unique, and timeless in 2026.

Why Shouldn't You Paint Your Kitchen Island a Contrasting Color?

Somewhere along the line, we seem to have collectively decided that our kitchen island ideas need to be different from our cabinets. There have been many iterations — from the contrasting countertops to fluted bases — but the trend has culminated more recently in two-tone kitchens where the cabinetry of an island is painted in a bright, contrasting color to the rest of the kitchen.

As we look towards 2027, however, they're starting to fall out of fashion already. When an island is painted in an entirely different color to your walls or cabinets, it can often make a kitchen look too busy, with too many elements competing for the eye (like a patchwork quilt).

Leah Hook, principal designer at Gray Oak Studio, says this can be especially problematic in small kitchens. "Here, a contrasting island can feel disjointed, making the space feel even smaller," she says.

There’s also the consideration of longevity. According to Charlotte Tilby, kitchen expert at LochAnna Kitchens, contrasting kitchen island colors are naturally more "trend-led". "Because the island is often one of the largest elements in the kitchen, changing it later can be difficult without affecting the wider scheme," she says. "A bold color can look striking initially, but more neutral and tonal choices tend to offer greater flexibility and longevity, especially with evolving tastes."

What Color Should an Island Be Instead?

So, where are kitchen island color trends in 2026 actually headed? A stylish kitchen doesn't necessarily hinge on the specific shade of the island itself, but simply on a hue that feels more harmonious with the surrounding space. Maybe it's a color found in your tiled backsplash, or a wood stain that complements your kitchen cabinet color. An island can still stand out, but the difference shouldn't feel stark or jarring.

"Recently, there has been a move towards more cohesive and considered kitchen schemes, where the cabinetry, walls and materials all work together," explains Al Bruce, kitchen designer at Olive & Barr. "Many clients are now looking for a softer, more timeless feel, rather than having the island stand out as a separate feature."

As mentioned, this doesn't mean a total absence of variation at all, but it does mean more tonal kitchen islands that work with a larger scheme, rather than against it. "Homeowners are experimenting with tonal shades, tactile finishes, statement worktops and metallic details to give the island its own identity," says Charlotte. "This creates depth and visual interest, while maintaining a cohesive overall scheme."

Whether you opt for a natural wooden island where the countertop does all the talking, or match your shaker cabinetry with an island that's just one shade lighter or darker, the idea is to create a kitchen that looks visually cohesive while still avoiding overly co-ordinated, uniform units.

How Can You Make a Kitchen Island Stand Out Without Painting It a Different Color?

There are plenty of ways to ensure your island still stands out without relying on a bold color contrast. Leah recommends opting for a different kitchen countertop material as a simple starting point. "Dramatic veining or even colorful stone on the island with a quieter choice on the perimeter brings the statement moment to the true center of the room," she says.

Consider the materiality, too. Dramatic stone islands can make a serious statement, or opt for a wooden base with an inlay accent, as pictured above. Choose a finish that complements the kitchen colors found on your walls, backsplash, and cabinets. "Timber detailing, open shelving, or even a different style of cabinetry can give the island its own character without having to introduce another color," adds Al. "A combination I particularly like is a wooden island in ash or oak paired with painted cabinetry."

One benefit of natural materials, as Charlotte points out, is that they will also prove more timeless. "Natural timber, beautifully veined stone, and fluted or reeded detailing are all great ways to introduce interest," she offers as examples. "The use of softer, tonal palettes, where different textures and materials are layered together, creates a kitchen that feels considered, cohesive, and individual."

When Can a Contrasting Kitchen Island Color Work?

Of course, you may still want to paint your island a different color from your kitchen cabinets, and I'm not denying that it can't ever work at all. Instead of choosing bold contrastive shades, however, consider a tonal shade that echoes your walls or cabinets.

"Contrasting islands can also be particularly effective in a larger, open-plan kitchen, where color can help define different areas without the need for physical dividers," says Charlotte. "The key is to ensure the island still connects to other elements within the room, such as the worktop, flooring, lighting, or hardware, so it feels like a considered part of the overall design rather than simply a statement piece."

If you want your island to act as the focal point of your kitchen, this is when you can be a little bolder with your color choice. "A darker island can help to anchor the space and draw attention towards the heart of the room," Al notes. "Equally, a lighter island can work well if you don't want it to dominate the scheme. Ultimately, it's about making sure the colors work with the rest of the room."

Kitchen trends come and go, but you want an island that stays stylish until your next renovation. Painting it a different color for the sole purpose of making your kitchen more chromatic won't be the best choice long-term. By all means make it a contrast to your cabinets, but don't be blindly led by the two-tone trend. Instead, think about materiality, subtle color shifts, and other ways of accenting your island that won't disrupt your existing color scheme.

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A lack of zoned storage, mindlessly overloading the garage, storing things in damp spaces, mixing summer clothes with fall apparel, and neglecting summer decluttering are five mistakes experts recommend fixing before September.

So, before you have to reset your home for autumn, here's what you need to do first.

1. Lack of Zoning

"Forgetting to categorize your summer storage is one of the biggest mistakes you can make," says professional organizer Meghan Cocchiaro. "Come fall, it becomes harder to store away summer gear to do a seasonal swap into fall and winter, because all of the items are a mess in the garage and mudroom."

Instead of waiting to sort through a jumbled mess later, Meghan recommends organizing your things based on how you use items and assigning everything a proper home during the summer, not after. It will also make your back-to-school home reset much easier to endure.

I recommend using a planner to make a note of your zoning system. This Custom Digital Planner from Etsy is efficient to keep on hand. Or if you prefer putting pen to paper, take a look at this Cafe Notes Softback Spiral Lined Notebook from Papier.

2. Overloading the Garage

Once you've got all your outdoor furniture out of storage, are happy to keep your car on the driveway, and had a pre-summer spring clean, you might just realize exactly how overstuffed your garage has been for the rest of the year. Audra N George, founder of Pretty Neat, tells me that mindlessly loading everything summery into a garage is another storage mistake to fix before September. "Going all summer with things all over the garage is stressful," she notes.

"And then at the end of the season you will be left to make some tough decisions about where to store items." The solution to this mistake is to declutter your garage, loft, or any other place that serves as your storage hub for the summer.

3. Storing Things in Damp Spots

According to Cathy Borg, founder of In & Out Organizing, storing things in damp spaces or causing places to feel humid by stowing away items that aren't fully dry yet is a common summer faux pas.

This can be an especially popular apartment storage mistake since you're typically dealing with more compact spaces. "Storing your items in a damp basement can lead to musty smells and mildew," she warns. "A dry closet or any well-ventilated storage space is always the better option in this case."

4. Mixing Summer Clothes with Autumn Layers

One of the biggest closet mistakes that makes you wear less of your wardrobe involves a poorly organized wardrobe. And around the end of summer, this is caused by mixed warm and cool weather clothing living in a single space.

Although layering is a significant theme when dressing for the unpredictable transitional weather at this time of year, I recommend zoning your summer clothes from your autumn apparel to make resetting your wardrobe for peak fall a breeze.

5. Storing Without Decluttering

Lastly, and most importantly, storing your items without decluttering first is the biggest red flag of them all. And it's made even worse by purchasing storage bins and organizers before culling back the clutter first.

Consider decluttering things for fall and follow up by planning out your storage ideas only after you've pared back your home. I recommend starting with the kitchen to put away the grills and BBQs and bring out the casserole dishes and soup pots for hearty fall feasts.

If, like me, you've had a tough time balancing the task of managing your home and basking in the season, morning resets for summer are a simple way to stay consistent.

And while you're here, subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter for more seasonal interiors advice.

And, with kitchen countertop ideas ranging from beautifully veined natural stone and warm timber to sleek stainless steel and increasingly sophisticated laminates, there isn't one material that comes out on top for every kitchen.

"The best kitchen worktop isn't necessarily the most expensive," says Sofia Lundgren, of Blakes London. "It is the one that works with the way you cook and live, while offering the right balance between aesthetics, durability and the level of maintenance you're prepared to take on."

We asked interior designers to weigh up the pros and cons of the most popular kitchen countertop materials, so you can find the right balance of practicality and style for your space.

1. Natural Stone

Few countertop materials have quite the same presence as natural stone. From richly veined marble kitchens to characterful quartzite and granite, every slab is unique, bringing natural color, movement, and a sense of permanence to a kitchen.

PROS

Character and individuality: "Natural stone like marble offers beautiful slabs to choose from," says Isabella Pacelli, junior designer at Roundhouse. "Each piece is different. Nothing has the same depth and beauty as a natural stone."

Sofia Lundgren, of Blakes London, agrees sense of character is key. "Natural stone brings an individuality to a kitchen that is difficult to replicate,: she says. "Every slab has its own variation, veining and character, giving the space a sense of depth and permanence."

Oozes luxury: "Marble has an undeniable sense of luxury and works beautifully in both traditional and contemporary schemes," adds Sofia.

"Every slab is unique; many can be book-matched for a really dramatic run, and the client gets to be genuinely involved - going to the yard, choosing their slab, seeing the veining they'll live with," adds Jayne Everett, creative director of Naked Kitchens. "That's part of the pleasure of a bespoke project. The range is vast, in pattern, color and price. Totally showstoppingly beautiful.

Some are hardwearing: Other materials, like granite and quartzite, are particularly hardwearing and heat-resistant. With the right care, natural stone can last for decades.

CONS

Heavy and expensive: Natural stone can be expensive and is also extremely heavy, so installation needs careful consideration.

May require sealing: "Some stones, particularly marble, are porous and require regular sealing,: warns Sofia Lundgren. "Marble can also stain, scratch and etch when exposed to acidic ingredients such as lemon and vinegar.

"For some, this is simply part of the beauty of a natural material; for others, it can make it less suited to a busy kitchen."

Can be prone to cracking: "Marble is porous," says Jayne. "Some materials carry fissures and can lead to cracking. It needs to be sourced carefully from reputable stone yards, slabs need to be selected and reserved early, and prices can be eye-watering. It rewards planning."

BEST FOR

Design-led kitchens where the worktop is intended to be a feature.

"Natural stone works particularly well in classic, country and high-end schemes," says Sofia. "If durability is the priority, granite or quartzite are excellent choices; if you're drawn to marble, embrace the fact that it will evolve and develop a patina with use."

Design Inspiration for Your Kitchen

2. Porcelain

Porcelain kitchen countertops have become an increasingly popular countertop choice, particularly for contemporary kitchens.

Available in remarkably convincing stone-look finishes as well as more minimal designs, it offers the high-end appearance of natural materials with a sleeker, engineered edge.

PROS

Durable and low maintenance: "Porcelain is an excellent choice for a busy kitchen, combining durability with relatively low maintenance," explains Sofia. "It is non-porous and highly resistant to staining, scratching, heat, and UV light, so it doesn't require sealing and is straightforward to keep clean.

Quality is improving: "Porcelain is improving constantly, partly because it's benefiting from the industry's move away from quartz," says Jayne Everett. "Three-dimensional porcelain is now coming through, which is fabulous for replicating marble convincingly. The choice is huge, and you get real consistency of pattern and tone between sheets."

"A lot of porcelains now have incredible depth and look closer to a natural stone than quartz," agrees Isabella Pacelli.

CONS

Lack of edge detailing: "Where the pattern is only printed on the surface, the veining doesn't run through the body of the material, so cut edges read as white. Worth checking before you specify."

Expensive: "Good-quality porcelain can be a significant investment and requires specialist fabrication and installation," says Sofia Lundgren. "While the surface is exceptionally hard-wearing, edges and corners can be more susceptible to chipping from a heavy knock.

"It also needs to be handled and installed correctly, particularly where cut-outs or complex details are involved."

BEST FOR

"A hard-wearing surface. A family who wants the beauty of a natural stone without the upkeep," says Isabella.

Sofia Lundgren agrees, adding: "It's great for busy family kitchens and contemporary spaces where practicality is as important as aesthetics.

"Porcelain is particularly appealing if you love the look of marble or natural stone but want a surface that is easier to live with day to day."

3. Wood

Wood kitchen ideas bring something to a kitchen that harder countertop materials often can't: instant warmth and character.

From pale oak to deep, richly grained walnut, a timber worktop can soften a contemporary scheme or add to the tactile, lived-in quality of a more traditional kitchen.

PROS

Timeless appeal: "Wood is one of the few worktop materials that genuinely warms a room," says Jayne Everett, Naked Kitchen's Creative Director.

Organic character: "It's a natural feature element in its own right, and it softens an otherwise hard-edged scheme," continues Jayne.

"It's also a fabulous food prep area - you can dedicate an area purely to chopping and prep and ages gracefully."

Renewable and repairable: When sourced responsibly, wood can be one of the more sustainable countertop choices, particularly if you look for FSC-certified timber. As well as being renewable, a quality wooden worktop can have a very long lifespan, as scratches and signs of wear can often be sanded out and the surface refinished rather than replaced.

CONS

The upkeep. "Wood has to be oiled and cared for regularly to maintain its look," says IsabellaPacelli.

Jayne Everett confirms wood must be properly sealed from the outset. "That's non-negotiable," she says. "Most of the concerns around timber is about maintenance, which is totally mitigated if the timber worktop is sealed correctly at the start."

BEST FOR

"Wood is ideal for areas where you want to break up an expanse of stone or introduce warmth into a cooler palette," says Jayne Everett.

4. Stainless Steel

Once associated predominantly with professional kitchens, stainless steel has firmly entered the design conversation at home.

Its cool, reflective finish feels crisp and contemporary, while the patina it develops over time can give a kitchen a surprisingly relaxed, characterful quality.

And, if you didn't know, industrial kitchens are quietly getting cool again.

PROS

Durable and easy to clean: "Stainless steel is the ultimate workhorse and has earned its place in professional kitchens for good reason," says Sofia Lundgren of Blakes London. "Hygienic, non-porous, heat-resistant and highly durable, it is easy to clean and can withstand the demands of serious cooking."

Creates an architectural aesthetic: "Bespoke fabrication can allow the worktop, sink and splashback to flow together almost seamlessly, creating a strong architectural look.

Sustainable: Stainless steel's sustainability credentials lie largely in its longevity and recyclability. It's an exceptionally durable material that can remain in use for decades, while stainless steel can be recycled at the end of its life and new products can contain significant amounts of recycled material - making it a strong choice for a kitchen designed with longevity in mind.

CONS

Can feel cold: "Stainless steel has a distinctly utilitarian character, which can feel cold or industrial if it isn't balanced with softer, warmer materials," says Sofia.

Scratches easily: It will show fingerprints, water marks, and scratches, particularly when new. However, this is also part of its appeal: over time, the surface develops a softer, lived-in patina that can add to its character.

BEST FOR

Serious cooks and contemporary or industrial-style kitchens. "Stainless steel works particularly well when paired with timber cabinetry, natural stone or other tactile materials, helping to soften its more utilitarian character," adds Sofia Lundgren.

5. Quartz

Quartz countertops offer the polished look and substantial feel of stone, but with the consistency and practicality of an engineered surface.

Available in everything from quiet, barely-there finishes to dramatic marble-inspired veining, it's an incredibly versatile choice that can work just as comfortably in classic kitchens as it does in sleek contemporary spaces.

Quartz is being slowly phased out of the home market, for issues involved in the material's production process, rather than anything to do with its qualities. Similar materials are coming to market that no longer have these issues.

PROS

Large variety of choice: Quarts offers an enormous variety of colors, patterns, and, increasingly, textures.

Durable: "It's hard-wearing and can be super-durable and stain-resistant. Being man-made, durability is a top priority," says Roundhouse's Isabella Pacelli.

Affordable: "Quartz is widely available and sits at an accessible price point, which is why it's been the go-to material for so long," says Jayne Everett.

CONS

Lower wow factor: Some quartz can lack depth and doesn’t have that same wow factor as natural stone.

Silica health concerns: "The industry conversation has changed significantly around quartz," says Jayne Everett. "The health risk isn't to the homeowner; an installed worktop is entirely safe. It's to fabricators cutting and polishing the material, where respirable crystalline silica dust can cause silicosis."

"We strongly encourage anyone specifying it now to ask their supplier directly about silica content and fabrication practice."

BEST FOR

Worktops and splashbacks where consistency and budget matter most .

6. Laminate

Laminate has come a long way from being simply the budget countertop option. Today's designs can convincingly recreate everything from richly veined stone to timber and more unusual finishes, making it an increasingly versatile choice for achieving a particular look without the price tag of the real material.

PROS

Affordable and versatile: Laminate is one of the most budget-friendly countertop materials, while the huge variety of finishes means it can replicate everything from marble and terrazzo to timber surprisingly convincingly.

Easy to live with: It's non-porous, straightforward to clean, and doesn't require sealing or the regular maintenance associated with some natural surfaces.

CONS

Less resistant to heat and damage: Hot pans can scorch or damage laminate, and although good-quality versions are fairly hard-wearing, the surface can scratch, chip, or be marked with heavy use.

Difficult to repair: Unlike wood or some solid-surface materials, significant damage can't simply be sanded or polished away. Once chipped, burnt, or badly scratched, a section - or potentially the whole countertop - may need replacing.

BEST FOR

Laminate is durable, low maintenance, and low cost, yet has poor heat resistance, and repairs can be challenging," says Alex Alonso, founder of Mr Alex Tate. "It's ideal for lower-budget projects or less-used spaces like laundry rooms."

Ultimately, the best kitchen countertop material is the one that strikes the right balance between how you want your kitchen to look and how you need it to perform.

Natural stone might win on individuality, stainless steel on hard-working durability, and wood on warmth, while engineered and more affordable surfaces can offer impressive practicality with fewer maintenance demands.

Think realistically about everything from your budget to how much upkeep you're prepared to embrace — and remember that a countertop doesn't necessarily need to remain pristine to be beautiful. Often, the surfaces that age, patinate, and tell the story of a well-used kitchen are the ones that give it the most character.

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

And so it got me thinking: why should I only experience this form of sleep luxury on vacation? And now that I've incorporated it into my wind-down routine, I can't imagine going to bed without creating an ambiance for rest first.

Not only does it help you sleep better, but it's also a satisfyingly organized way to get your bedroom (and yourself) ready for slumber. Here's how you can bring it into your own nighttime routine.

What Is a Turndown Service at Home?

"Having a nightly turndown routine might initially feel like a luxury, but once you continue this practice, you'll notice your body subtly starts to wind down more easily," says interior designer Lisa Morton.

"Removing your accent pillows, adjusting blankets and comforters, and misting a lavender scent on your pillow are all part of letting your body know that it's nearly time to rest," she continues. "What starts as feeling luxurious turns into impactful signs to your nervous system."

It's a dreamy way to romanticize your sleep routine while making an active effort to improve your bedroom etiquette, too. You can even end your turndown by drawing yourself a hot shower before bed. That way, your space is all set up with zero disruptions to hinder your calm vibe.

How Does a 'Turndown' Help You Sleep Better?

"Turndown is a signal," says Lauri Leadley, clinical sleep educator at Valley Sleep Center. "It’s a reminder that it’s time to prepare for bed. As a sleep educator, I’m always telling my patients to create an evening routine or ritual that prepares them — mind, body, and heart for a good night’s sleep."

She tells me the routine includes all the usual cues such as taking a warm bath or dark shower, shutting down devices, and getting into a comfy bed. She also recommends offline rituals like journaling, reading a book or magazine, practicing gratitude, praying or meditating, and telling your body it’s time to wind down and get the sleep it deserves.

"Doing this with regularity will become a routine you love, appreciate, and look forward to each night. Turning down your bed an hour or two before you get into it, just before the bath or shower, creates that shift to winding down and decompressing before bedtime," she explains.

"I like to do this because pulling the top blanket or duvet off the sheets also allows for a little air circulation, cooling down the linens and making it that much more comfy to climb into," Lauri adds.

On the other hand, I've also incorporated a morning reset for summer into my routine. It'll help you start the day off on a more organized note and help you beat the AM blues.

While you're here, why not sign up for the Livingetc newsletter for more home lifestyle advice.

In all honesty, whether your rug should be lighter or darker than your floors is pretty dependent on the mood you are going for and the color scheme you are working with. As interior designer Vanessa Alexander of Alexander Design says, "I wouldn't get too caught up in whether the rug 'should' be lighter or darker than the floor. There really isn't one right answer." It's more important to consider the overall balance of the room and, again, the mood you're trying to create. "Sometimes the rug should quietly blend in and create continuity. Other times, it can be the element that grounds the entire space," adds Vanessa.

Ultimately, it's about listening to what the room is calling for. So before you throw your favorite rug trends out the window in efforts to follow the 'right' decorating rules, here's how designers decipher whether a light or dark rug is better for your space. By narrowing down the factors that do or don't work for your room, choosing the best rug becomes easier.

When to Use a Rug That's Darker Than the Floors

Again, when it comes to the light versus dark debate, there really isn't a hard-and-fast rule for how to choose a living room rug, bedroom rug, or dining room rug.

That said, generally, a darker rug can really help make a space feel more intimate and grounded. "I tend to gravitate toward darker rugs in spaces where we want a little more intimacy and depth," says Vanessa Alexander.

For example, living rooms and dining rooms would look stunning with a darker rug covering the floor. Not only are these spaces typically hosts to conversation and a cozy atmosphere, but they are high-traffic. Dark rugs in high-traffic rooms will hide dirt and daily wear-and-tear better.

There is also a sense of richness that a dark rug can provide. Tapping into the moody oxblood or chocolate brown color trend with your choice of rug will instantly cocoon a room in warmth and style — especially if you want to balance out an otherwise light room.

"A dark rug gives the furniture something to sit against visually," adds Venetia Rudebeck, London-based interior designer and co-founder of Studio Vero. "It's about looking at the balance of the entire space rather than the floor in isolation."

When to Use a Rug That's Lighter Than the Floors

A common misconception about a rug that's lighter than the flooring is that it won't be as cozy or grounding. In reality, adding any rug to a space will bring an elevated comfort — nothing beats a soft place for your feet to land.

But from a design standpoint, "a lighter rug can help a room feel more open and airy," says Vanessa. Say you want a cozy living room, but you don't necessarily want to weigh down the palette with a dark tone. A light-colored rug would be a perfect addition — especially in a short-shag pile. Plus, "If a room already has lots of darker, heavier furniture or receives less natural light, a lighter rug can bring some lift and softness," adds Venetia.

Lighter rugs can also be fabulous bedroom rug ideas, as they keep that sense of breezy serenity. "It's all about what the room is asking for, the feeling you want the space to have, and how the rug works within the larger composition and overall mood," says Vanessa.

And 'light' doesn't have to mean white. A rug that's lighter than the flooring can still be something like a beautiful light blue or soft yellow. Never be afraid to introduce color. Or, for that matter, texture.

"A light jute rug is a brilliant opportunity to introduce another layer to a space, so rather than simply asking whether it should be lighter or darker than the flooring, we look at what might be missing from the room as a whole," Venetia says. And usually it's another layer of tactile material.

Whether you choose a rug that's lighter or darker than your floors is really about balancing everything — the furniture, fabrics, materials, flooring, paint, and, of course, the light. "Ultimately, I wouldn’t start with the rule 'lighter or darker than the floor'. I'd ask: What does this room need? Does it need warmth, softness, texture, contrast, or something to ground it? The rug should answer that question," says Venetia.

The most timeless rug choice will be the one that speaks to the design of the room as a whole. And for more inspiration like this, be sure to subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.

With traditional patterns and ornate trim being some of the biggest bedding trends this year, it makes sense to lean into these indulgent layers. Especially since many beds treat patterned quilts as a decorative finish rather than a fabric to tuck into.

So I spoke to an interior designer for some advice on how to style them and rounded up the coolest designs to match an array of interior aesthetics.

How Do You Style Patterned Quilts?

"Everyone spends their styling budget on the headboard and pillows and completely forgets the quilt is the biggest single surface in the room," says interior designer Alana Marie. "I used a blue denim patchwork on the sofa bed in a tiny 500-square-foot cabin at Paradise Cove (pictured above) for exactly this reason."

"It brought color and history to the room without adding a single extra object," she adds. "A patterned quilt on a bed does the same job. It adds warmth and a sense of story that minimal bedding just can't."

She tells me that dressing a bed with a vintage or artisan-patterned quilt lets you layer in a few solid pillows and a textured throw without the room feeling busy, because the pattern's already doing the heavy lifting. So if you're as drawn in by these plush coverlets as we are, here are some cool designs to shop.

Another trend that's twisting traditionalism to fit contemporary interiors is bed valances. They frame the base of your bed and elevate the space you sleep in.

And for more design advice, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter.

White walls are usually the default — and no one's denying their timeless, versatile staying power — but they can sometimes leave a home feeling bland. That's especially true when your home lacks period features or other distinctive architectural details, as is often the case in new builds or former social housing. The good news? By playing around with contrast, color, and clever paint finishes, you can fake them.

To find out how, we spoke to color consultant Joa Studholme — who also works as the color curator at Farrow & Ball — to round up some of her most transformative paint ideas.

And if you want to learn what other tricks Joa has up her sleeve, she's holding two talks during Livingetc Unlocked, our two-day event running across 10-11 September, where we'll be showcasing some of the best London homes and hosting talks with leading designers. Tickets are on sale now.

1. Use a Darker Shade or a Gloss Finish to Fake Architectural Depth

One the easiest paint tricks is creating the optical illusion of architectural depth. Darker, receding colors are often best for this — especially in small spaces — since they make a wall or feature look further away than it is.

Although an excellent paint trick for smaller rooms, it doesn't simply apply to larger surfaces like walls. Joa Studholme often opts for a darker shade on any woodwork and in door or window reveals to create definition.

A contrast of paint finishes can have a similar effect. This is because matt finishes visually recede since its non-reflective surface absorbs light, rather than bouncing it back. Gloss, on the other hand, works in the opposite way.

You can use the two together to visually divide a wall and create the illusion of architectural panelling, for example. "Use a high gloss finish on the bottom meter of a wall and skirting boards, with the same color in a matt finish above it," says Joa.

2. Use Two-Tone Walls to Mimic Moldings

Most modern homes don't have molding details like corning, skirting, or picture and dado rails. Of course, you can retro fit these features, but you can also fake them pretty well with paint alone (plus they double up as excellent ideas for leftover paint).

"If you take the ceiling color around 12 inches down the wall, it creates a modern interpretation of cornicing and makes a room feel super cozy," says Joa. "A simple split of color on a wall (without a dado rail) also has huge impact on a space, making it feel bigger and lighter, especially if you use a strong color on the bottom and a more delicate shade above." For extra impact, you can also extend the lower color around doors and windows, as pictured above.

3. Use a Contrastive Color to Create a Focal Point

We often fail to recognize archway reveals, skylight shafts, or chimney breasts as architectural features. They might not be as decorative as period details or decorative plasterwork, but with a lick of paint, they can still become a striking visual part of your home's design.

These areas are also great places to make use small amounts of paint if you have sample pots lying around you're not sure what to do with. "Look for non obvious areas where you can use small amounts of color to distract from the walls," Joa advises, noting that the interior of skylights work really well.

Although it will require more paint, another overlooked area that's often overlooked is the floor. "Painting floors has a magical effect," Joa explains. "Use pattern if you want a substitute architectural feature or a plain color if you want to make spaces feel bigger." It will take some commitment, but paint can be used to mimic borders, faux parquet, and checkerboard tiles on a floor, for example.

4. Use Color to Define and Divide Open-Plan Spaces

Modern, open concept homes often lack distinct zones, but paint can play a great part in visually carving out separate areas. To zone a room with color, Joa recommends drawing attention to any feature that distinguishes one area from another. "For example, a strongly colored accent on an architrave or opening can really help to divide spaces, as can defining lines on the edges of doors," she says.

You can use paint to create the illusion of a miniature room in an open plan layout, too. "Always seek out the darker areas with no natural light and then lean into it with strong color, making the lighter spaces feel light and the darker dark," Joa explains. "This is such an easy way to divide a space."

5. Blur Sharp Corners by Color-Drenching

One of the downfalls of new builds and ex social housing is how basic and utilitarian they feel. They typically feature boxy rooms devoid of architectural details, with sharp, sterile corners that feel soulless. Fortunately, color-drenching offers a great way to blur those hard edges and make a featureless room feel architecturally softer.

"Color drenching can works miracles in featureless spaces because you can't read the confines of the room, meaning that the sharp corners disappear," Joa explains. When committing to a painted ceiling, however, the color choice is vital. Darker shades — or those with a smoky undertone — are often more effective, adding depth and dimension to your ceiling line which will change throughout the day with the natural light.

You don't need to retrofit architectural moldings or carve out alcoves to give your home more character. With a little imagination — and a willingness to experiment with color, contrast, and finish — paint can do far more than simply decorate your walls. From fake cornicing and dado rails to creating focal points, these clever tricks can give even the most featureless room a sense of depth, detail, and personality.

For more paint ideas and expert decorating advice, subscribe to Livingetc's newsletter.

So you've got yourself a narrow garden? Often seen in more urban areas, especially in Victorian and Edwardian properties, long narrow gardens may seem tricky at first, but with the right treatment, they’re a dream for a keen gardener — especially if you’re a bit indecisive!

One of the most common questions asked is 'how can I make a small garden look bigger?' After all, no one wants their garden to feel cramped, especially if your interior is a squeeze. With help from the experts, we’re going to shed some light on the tricks designers use to draw the eye around a space and give narrow gardens that airy illusion. So, here's what to do.

1. Section Your Space

If you’ve inherited a garden that’s more post-apocalyptic wasteland than botanical beauty, don’t panic. Blank narrow gardens are more common than you may think, especially with first-time buys. But according to designers, it’s actually a great place to start. From here, you can conquer the all-important layout.

Layout is the foundation of every design, but particularly in narrow gardens. To create the illusion of width, you need to break up the length into smaller sections. “Zoning is one of the most effective ways to make a narrow garden feel wider and more spacious,” says expert garden designer Kitti Kovacs. “Rather than allowing the eye to take in the entire garden at once, I like to create a sense of journey, with different areas gradually revealed as you move through the space.”

Turns out, seeing the end of your garden is a big no-no for high-end designs; as Kitti points out, “Even in a large garden, if everything is visible at first glance, we can lose interest quickly. A successful garden layout should always invite exploration.”

Instead, designers strive to break up the linear space with contrasting curves and shapes. Garden and plant expert Julian Palphramand adds, “Anything that breaks up a straight run helps a narrow garden. Curved beds, angled paths, and planted stopping points stop the eye racing to the end. It’s a simple way to take the corridor feel out of the space."

To figure out a section’s starting points, Kitti advises paying close attention to your garden’s surroundings. “It also helps to blur the division between the garden and its surroundings,” says Kitti. “Existing trees in neighboring gardens can be treated as a borrowed backdrop and incorporated into the overall composition. When boundaries are softened with planting, it becomes less clear where the garden begins and ends, making the space feel considerably larger.”

2. Frame Your Plants with Fencing

Just as a paint color affects an interior, the same can be said for garden fences. If you’ve got a long-narrow garden, chances are you’re looking at a lot of fencing, so a replacement may be out of budget. But one of the real perks of fencing is how drastically it can be changed just with a lick of paint.

Now comes the all-important question — what fence color makes a garden look bigger? Kitti recommends something dark. “I would focus less on making the fence a feature and more on helping it visually recede,” she says. “Dark, muted colors such as charcoal, deep olive, soft black, or earthy brown work particularly well because they create depth and allow foliage and flowers to stand out."

That said, the end boundary can be treated differently, she adds. "A slightly lighter tone, a focal feature, or generous planting can visually bring it closer, helping the garden feel less like a corridor and more balanced in proportion.”

If you have money to invest in your fencing, head for the horizontal fence panels. “Horizontal fencing can also help the garden feel broader,” says Julian, adding that fence climbers such as “clematis, climbing roses, or espalier fruit trees, can make the boundaries start to feel much softer.”

And experts agree that if you’re able to invest, horizontal fence panelling will give an illusion of a much wider design. Kitti adds, “Horizontal battens can also make the space feel broader, especially when softened with layered planting, climbers, or trained shrubs. However, the pattern should remain simple; too many decorative panels or contrasting colors can draw attention to the narrow shape.”

Designer Vicky Lincoln adds that, "Fencing is really important for a narrower garden, especially as you can’t hide it behind a three-meter garden border. Horizontal slated fences work really well. If you can go custom, choose really wide boards. It really does change the proportions, and it acts like a piece of art in itself.”

3. Use Large Plants for Sectioning

Just because your garden is on the narrower side doesn’t mean you have to shy away from larger trees and shrubs. That’s the beauty of a sectioned design. Simply position the trees in between sections, and you'll form a beautiful natural barrier that creates shade and vertical interest.

Kitti Kovacs thinks trees and shrubs have a well-earned place in a design, and shouldn’t be overlooked in a narrow garden. “Used carefully, they can add drama, structure, and a sense of maturity that smaller plants alone may struggle to achieve," she adds. "They encourage the eye to travel upwards, rather than focusing on the narrow boundaries."

The same principle can be applied to bare new-build gardens, too. A new garden full of small plants can often feel incomplete. It’s the addition of larger shrubs and trees that make a design feel established and like it’s always been there, plus they’re great at creating movement and curves in a design.

But which trees and shrubs work best for narrow gardens? "I like to include one or two well-positioned small to medium-sized specimen trees, particularly varieties with elegant forms, light canopies and strong seasonal interest," says Kitti. "Acers, Amelanchier lamarckii, Sorbus, Cercis canadensis, multi-stemmed Himalayan birches, and flowering cherry trees are all excellent examples. They create attractive focal points, make the garden feel established, and can provide welcome dappled shade during increasingly hot summers.”

And then there are the plants worth avoiding in narrow gardens.“Scale and placement are crucial," says Kitti. "I would avoid very large trees with dense canopies or vigorous root systems, as they may overwhelm the garden, block valuable light, and create deep shade.”

Julian Palphramand agrees: “Too many bulky plants will crowd the space,” he says. “In a narrow garden, balance is everything.”

4. Plan Your Paths

The path to a perfect narrow garden design never runs straight — literally. Straight lines are a dimension-killer for narrow gardens and, according to the experts, will only make the space feel more boxy. The answer? Curved paths.

“An interesting path can also change how the space is perceived," says Kitti. "A gently meandering route draws the eye from side to side rather than straight towards the end boundary, helping the garden feel broader and create a sense of journey.”

Vicky Lincoln agrees, adding that garden paths and paved patio areas can actually play a big part in distracting your eye. “We really try and use shapes," she says. "We don’t want pathways that just run straight up the center. You don’t want to be able to measure the space with your eyes, so we use things like diagonals or zigzags, or even diamond-shaped patios to trick the eye.”

Natural path materials, like limestone slabs, are great for nestling inside a lawn. The darker tones of the grass contrast beautifully against the light stone — perfect for more contemporary or Japanese-inspired garden designs. Or, if cottage-core is more your vibe, gravel paths can feel more traditional. Just be sure to edge your gravel path well and provide a physical barrier against any grass, otherwise, you'll be sweeping spilled pea shingle all summer.

Though narrow gardens can seem a disadvantage, with the right design treatment, they can be made to look twice the size. Each section — or 'room' as designers like to call them — offers a chance to explore a new design feature. A cut flower patch in one section, a fruit and vegetable garden in another, a Japanese-inspired water feature in the next? The world is your oyster!

For more inspiration, subscribe to Livingetc's newsletter.

So, I spoke to psychologists to better understand people who display lots of books at home. And it turns out that people who style a bookcase with abundance tend to share some traits.

From designing homes to function as an extension of their identity and valuing curiosity to fostering an emotional relationship with meaningful design, here's what they had to say.

1. Their Homes Function as an Extension of Their Identity

"People with large collections of books will likely view their homes in a much broader sense than just as places to rest," says Dr. Shannon Franklin, licensed psychologist at Element Q Healing Center.

"Their homes may tell people about them and what type of person they are. Books can symbolize our hobbies, beliefs, experiences, and periods of time. In this way, a fully stocked bookcase is an expression of that individual's own autobiography in his or her home."

Whether it's the introspective nature of Arundhati Roy, the social exploration of Yomi Adegoke, or the influence of imperfection from Coco Mellors, a person's bookshelf wealth pulls the curtain back.

2. They Value Curiosity and Ongoing Discovery

"Environmental psychology research has found that we leave 'footprints' in our living environments," says licensed psychologist Dipesh Patel. "These footprints become cues that reflect our identities. And my observation from this is that someone who has lots of books on display might be very open to learning new ideas or having new experiences."

Shannon also finds that a big library represents a desire for lifelong learning as well as an opportunity to find new ways to look at and learn about things. "Some people may have many more books than they could read in their lifetime," she notes.

"However, simply having them available and accessible in beautiful book storage will help create an environment that fosters curiosity and encourages individuals to pursue the study of other topics and areas."

3. They Have an Emotional Attachment to Meaningful Design

"Household objects such as books are special in the way they may represent both intellectual and emotional connections to the past," Shannon explains. "A specific book for one person could be associated with their childhood, a relationship, a vacation, or a significant stage of personal development."

She also tells me that some people see books on display as being a source of familiarity and continuity, thus creating a home feeling when they visit. It's an integral part of lore-building interiors that read like a wall of memories.

The way we design our homes and how often we do so says so much about the way we live in them. And it turns out there are some shared habits between people who frequently rearrange their furniture, too.

To learn more about your interior design personality and how it impacts your life at home, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter.

According to garden Feng Shui, positioning your furniture so that the backs of your chairs face the entryway to your backyard is tampering with the free-flowing energy of this space.

So, if your outdoor living room finds itself in a similar layout, here's what you can do to fix the harmony of your garden.

Which Direction Should Your Outdoor Seating Face for Feng Shui?

"For good Feng Shui, the outdoor seating should be positioned in such a way that you are in command position," says Feng Shui practitioner Marina V. Umali. "Essentially, this means your back should be protected, so it should have the fence, the house, and plantings behind it."

Ideally, Matina adds, all your garden furniture should be facing the entry to the yard or the door. "This way you see who’s coming in and you can welcome them," she explains. "With the seating facing towards them rather than the back of the seating, they will feel invited and welcome."

Which Direction Should You Avoid Facing Outdoor Seating for Feng Shui?

According to Marina, one of the biggest garden Feng Shui mistakes you can make is facing your furniture so that anyone who enters sees your back first. This disrupts the path for energy to flow and creates an unbalanced space.

Arranging your outdoor furniture in a way that naturally disrupts movement through the space is another mistake that can impact the harmony of your backyard. Once you rethink your furniture placement, you'll instantly notice a shift in the way this space opens out to you and your guests.

If you're already planning for the crisp, cool fall months, knowing where to place your fire pit for Feng Shui is next. And why not sign up for more interior advice through the Livingetc newsletter while you're at it?

These days, inspiration is at our fingertips. The drawback, though, is that we can get too caught up in designing the 'perfect' home and lose track of the individuality that makes it special. 'Copycat interiors' will never look as good as the real deal. "To let someone into your home is an act of vulnerability," trend forecaster Rebecca Goesling, director of design at Goesling Group, shares. "Instead of shying away from that openness with an armor of tastefully curated objects, embrace it."

"Personal art, storied belongings, and more are like olive branches, inviting visitors to ask questions and build connections," she adds. So, when planning your next refresh, try not to follow interior design trends just because they caught your eye while scrolling. If you want your home to feel personal, collected, and different from everyone else, these are three things Rebecca says to avoid at all costs.

1. Things That Lack Color

First and foremost, things that lack color can easily give your home a sense of monotony and ambiguity. Sure, there are lots of ways to make minimalism in interior design more personal, but it's a slippery slope.

As Rebecca Goesling says, "The 'Quiet Luxury' trend or 'Stealth Wealth' tends to vilify color as unsophisticated and childish. Unfortunately, this has left us with indistinguishable homes of equally good but bland taste." We then fear decorating with color for its perceived trendiness. "The bolder a color, the more memorable it is, making it more likely to define a specific moment and therefore more likely to fall out of fashion," Rebecca explains.

However, this is also color's superpower. It's like the timed versus timeless design debate — a bold but characterful color choice can guarantee that a space stays with you long after you leave, connecting you to the senses and to people that occupy it. And that's what modern color trends are all about: choosing shades that are rich and characterful, but that have a liveable quality.

To incorporate rich colors without falling prey to fad cycles, "consider hues born from nature. Colors rooted in tangible resources such as lapis lazuli or ochre carry inherent value alongside a striking presence," says Rebecca.

2. Books You Won't Read

Next, you should never style your coffee table, mantel, or bookshelves with books that hold no meaning. As a design-lover myself, I must admit that I love a good-looking coffee table book as much as the next person — something that adds to the visual landscape. However, when you are choosing your books for aesthetics only, they will never lead to a space that feels truly personal.

"As literacy falters, the pretty coffee table book (see “St. Tropez Soleil”) is no longer just banal; it is almost threatening," says Rebecca. Books contain more depth than their cover and deserve to be treated as more than simple decoration. "They have the potential to tell a story of their readers' preferences, hurdles, and discoveries," adds Rebecca.

So, rather than displaying books that signal taste, set out novels, memoirs, and magazines (ahem, Livingetc) that start conversation. A bookshelf styled with your favorite books, thrifted pieces, and mementos from travels will always create a more collected display. "The more loved, the better," says Rebecca.

3. Too Many Machine-Made Textures

"While the boom in tactile surfaces is a delightful change from our all matte or gloss past, the consistency in machined surfaces can fall flat," says Rebecca. For instance, decking out a room in shiny chrome accessories will probably end up feeling too sterile, or swinging the other way and introducing a teddy material on all of your upholstery can also read as too homogeneous.

To break up the monotony, consider introducing handmade, timeworn, or living finishes with unexpected imperfections. "From heat-sensitive coatings to handcrafted carvings, these curiosities demand further examination," says Rebecca. Think carved wood details, like the dimpled wood trend.

Learning how to thrift different materials and mix them with new textiles is another way to create balance. It's about creating a story that feels personal and specific to you.

Finding the balance of contemporary decor that speaks to you and collected personal belongings is the key to a well-decorated space. However, avoiding these buys will help you avoid falling victim to overused design trends.

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

In fact, it's something editor Hugh Metcalf is dealing with right now, and asked me for some advice. "I recently bought a linen-covered armchair," Hugh explains, "but it's clearly not any sort of 'performance linen'. Now, any time a trace of moisture goes near it, I find myself left with another water stain on the material."

It's simply not enough to just know how to clean a sofa, but also to understand the intricacies of each material. So, I asked a cleaning expert for tips on how to avoid water marks when deep cleaning or spot-fixing a linen sofa or chair.

And believe it or not, it hinges on the way you dry your upholstery. But first, here's a closer look at how to clean linen furnishings and what you'll need.

What You'll Need

The things you need to clean your couch fabric will vary depending on the material and its sensitivity. With breathable fabrics like linen, Iryna Balaban, cleaning specialist at Elite Maids, tells me this is what you'll need.

TOOLS:

• Vacuum with an upholstery attachment, like this Lift Away NV602UK Upright Vacuum Cleaner from Shark.
• White microfiber cloths, like these AIDEA Microfibre Cleaning Cloths from Amazon.
• pH-neutral, linen-safe upholstery cleaner — I like this Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner Spray from Furniture Clinic.
• Soft bristle brush, like this Soft Bristle Brush from Fabricoat.
• Distilled water — I recommend using these Small Water Spray Bottles from VEXPLO.

How to Clean a Linen Sofa

"First, I thoroughly vacuum the upholstery to remove loose dust, crumbs, etc. This removes the possibility of rubbing dirt into dampened fabric and makes staining worse," says Iryna.

"When removing stains from upholstery, I test the cleaning solution on a hidden area before applying it to the stained area to be certain that it does not discolor or alter the texture of the fabric."

As opposed to spritzing the fabric with cleaning solution, Iryna recommends lightly moistening a microfiber cloth with the cleaning solution to gently blot the stained area from the outer edge of the stain toward the inner edge to prevent it from traveling further.

"Once I have cleaned the stained area, I take another lightly dampened clean microfiber cloth and remove any remaining residue," she adds. "Then I blot the area with a dry towel and let it sit in a well-ventilated space."

How to Avoid Water Marks

"When water marks occur, they generally result from uneven evaporation of moisture or from only a small portion of the fabric becoming wet. These are common sofa cleaning mistakes that can easily be avoided," Iryna explains.

"Therefore, instead of soaking just one small section of fabric, I would clean as much of the fabric as possible with as little moisture as possible. In addition to using less water, I use distilled water over tap water. That's because tap water contains minerals that often create visual residue when dried on natural fibers."

Finally, she recommends drying the fabric evenly by increasing airflow with fans or open windows. "I'd also avoid direct heat, which can cause rapid evaporation, resulting in obvious water marks."

In the meantime, I also recommend looking out for design mistakes that make your living room harder to clean. And for more interior care advice, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter.

Lifestyles change significantly throughout the decades, and depending on the period your home was built in, numerous elements will have been modified along the way. It's often these more recent additions that date a property the most.

Whether your home has already had a kitchen extension, a bathroom refit, or is due a refresh, there could be subtle signs that are dating it.

We've asked designers what the essential upgrades are and how best to modernize during a renovation. Discover what they said.

1. Clunky Spotlight Grids

Of course, few who live in period properties live with the original forms of illumination. Oil lamps, anyone? Subsequently fitted types of lighting fixtures often require updating.

Grids of glaring spotlights are one such feature. Popular with developers flipping period properties for a quick sale during the boom, these dated fixtures frequently appear in older homes.

"Historically, people placed downlights in a grid without considering the way a space is furnished and how it should be lit," says John Law, creative director of interiors at Woodhouse & Law. "It not only smacks of a basic developer spec, but the effect is that the room is washed with a universally bright light."

John acknowledges that recessed downlights have their use, but he recommends carefully editing out the fittings you don’t need. "Consideration should be given to the furniture layout and which features should be lit for decorative purposes, as well as where task lighting is needed for food prep or reading for example," he says.

It's not just spotlights installed in a grid formation that look outdated, the fittings can too. As technology has advanced, trims on recessed lighting, have become far sleeker.

"Swivelling ceiling fixtures that are larger than 4” are one of the very first updates we make in a renovation," says Gaelle Dudley, Founder, GLDESIGN. "Today’s sleeker set ups, like 3” to 4” trims, are an automatic facelift, and very cost efficient.

"Personally, I prefer sleek recessed lighting trims, all on dimmers, as it provides homes with the perfect amount of luminosity for all moods and design aesthetics."

2. One Pendant Light Rooms

While we're on the topic of lighting trends, an over reliance on overhead lighting can age a home too. Most modern schemes have multiple layers of integrated light sources within a room.

"A central pendant, unaccompanied by additional, layered lighting feels uptight and unimaginative,' says John. "Modern interiors embrace more nuanced lighting schemes.

"These combine decorative pendants, wall, table and floor lamps, in addition to illuminated architectural features and joinery. This could be wall lights either side of a console table or LED fittings underneath cabinetry. A little thought can have a huge impact on how the space feels."

3. Inherited Technology

Technology changes at lightning speed, and while it is not feasible or sustainable to indulge in every new model that's released, it’s easy for AV equipment to become obsolete or look antiquated.

"Heavy black, wall-mounted speakers are a good example of outdated tech," says John. "So many wireless and discrete solutions exist that don’t detract from the design scheme.

"It's a similar scenario with large screen TVs. There are models that look like a piece of art when they're off, or pieces that are beautiful within their own right, such as those by B&O, which are a far more modern option."

TV brands are launching design-influenced models, such as the Samsung Frame TV (which you can buy from Selfridges) disguises itself as a piece of wall art when you're not watching it. Alternatively, concealing tech behind a screen or closed doors is another option in modern homes.

4. Naturally Dark Rooms

Most of us love older homes for their beautiful proportions and architectural details; however, many period properties can feel dark and gloomy inside, often lacking the natural light we’ve come to value in the way we live today.

Houston-based interior designer Marie Flanigan makes dark rooms look lighter by looking for thoughtful opportunities to introduce more light and connection, without compromising the character of the home.

"In our Craftsman-style home, we added transoms above door frames so light could continue moving through the connected rooms," says Marie. "In other select areas, we used sliding glass pocket doors to open spaces when desired while still allowing them to feel separate when closed.

"These subtle architectural moves can make an older home feel brighter, more open, and more functional while preserving the character and intimacy that drew you to the home in the first place."

5. Popcorn Ceilings

Although an abomination from the latter part of the twentieth century, popcorn (also know as Artex) ceilings can sometimes still remain in older properties, having escaped earlier refurbs. If not removed, these design crimes can cast an otherwise attractive room into a time warp.

"We prioritize removing popcorn ceilings throughout the home," says Gaelle. "Textured painted ceilings were a trend a long time ago, but are anything but timeless.

"In homes today, I recommend a flat painted ceiling (whether they are white or painted a color), because a smooth surface is not only enduring, it allows statement lighting to have its moment.

"Whether the home’s aesthetic is contemporary, cottage, or traditional, this small investment update will make every renovation worth it."

While it's impossible to future-proof your home entirely, there are some interior design trends that are more enduring than others.

Working out what you truly love and avoiding fads will help to ensure you create a home that stays cool yet current for the longest time.

If you want help modernizing your home, why not book a Style appointment with one of our Design Lab by Livingetc stylists, who can create a room scheme for you?

I always thought I had a pretty good grasp on how to plan my home's lighting scheme, but it turns out I had unknowingly fallen for one of the most common table lamp placement mistakes out there, and my living room was suffering as a result. Instead of adding depth and warmth, my lamp placement was flattening my space, making it feel less inviting, trampling all the hard work of my cozy interiors and calming color palette. So I turned to an expert to help me fix my mistake.

Working as an interior stylist, Lucy Gough has built up a strong repertoire of tips and tricks to make any space look its absolute best, and much of that comes down to acing your lighting. A stylist's role is knowing the little changes that can make a big difference to how the room looks, and this is an error she's seen in far too many homes. "A poorly positioned lamp can throw a room off balance, making one side feel heavy while the rest of the space feels dark and flat," she explains. "Good lighting should feel intentional, not accidental."

And I can safely say, since putting her tips into action, my living room has never looked better. So, here's what she shared.

The Problem

So, what exactly is this potentially problematic lamp placement mistake? Well, it actually just so happens to be one of the most common. The corner may seem like the most obvious, logical place to pop a lamp when planning your living room's lighting scheme, but, according to the experts, it's far from the best.

Lucy explains, when it comes to lamp placement, "People often push them right into the corner of a room or place them on a tiny side table simply because there’s space there, rather than thinking about what the lamp is actually lighting."

When designing a modern living room, a table lamp is often thought of as something to simply fill up a side table, or considered as an accessory rather than a fundamental piece of the design. But, in doing this, you limit the potential for your space: "A lamp should create atmosphere and highlight a beautiful part of the room, not just fill an empty corner," explains Lucy.

In placing your lamp in the corner, you remove its ability to become part of the visual language of your design. Lucy explains that "when a lamp is tucked away in a corner, it often disappears visually and doesn’t contribute much to the overall feel of the space."

But as much as a beautiful table lamp fulfils a decorative role, it has a practical one, too, and placing it in the corner diminishes its practical aspect, as well as removing its decorative potential. "It can create harsh pools of light rather than a soft, even glow," says Lucy, making your living room appear flat and unwelcoming.

The Fix

Thankfully, this is an easy mistake to fix, requiring little more than a quick reshuffle. But to determine the best position for your living room lighting, there are a few helpful approaches to consider.

Firstly, the key to achieving a really beautiful, considered lighting design is to think in layers. Building a layered lighting scheme is one of the tricks almost every good designer swears by; it's the best way to build up depth in your space. Your lighting should never be thought of as a simple one-and-done; it always works best when used in conjunction with a variation of lights.

As Lucy explains, "Table lamps are there to create mood rather than provide all of the light in a room. Pair them with floor lamps, wall lights or ceiling lighting for a warm, inviting atmosphere." Different levels of lighting dotted throughout your space will make it feel cozy and inviting, while also ensuring it's amply lit.

With lamps specifically, it can be helpful to think about them in relation to how you'll actually use the space. Try to identify the spots people will naturally gravitate towards, and place your lighting around those areas. For example, "A lamp beside a sofa, armchair, or reading nook makes a space feel welcoming and encourages people to settle in," suggests Lucy.

You can also use your lighting to draw attention to something in your space, whether it's a piece of wall decor, a textured finish, or a gorgeous piece of furniture; an extra boost of illumination can help turn it into a true focal point, subtly directing your gaze towards it.

"Table lamps like company, be it a painting behind it that can be illuminated or photos near or surrounding. It can give purpose that way. It will encourage you to be brought into a room or linger in a spot that might otherwise be neglected," explains lamp designer Rosi De Ruig. A table lamp can feel more authentic and laid-back than an art light or spotlight, while still effectively offering the same benefit.

You'll want to pay careful attention to scale, too. "A lamp that’s too small can look lost, while one that’s too large can overwhelm the furniture," says Lucy. "As a guide," she suggests, "the bottom half of the lampshade should sit around eye level when you’re seated nearby, so the globe isn’t visible."

It can take some playing with, so feel free to experiment with different positions until you find the right one. "Lamps aren’t just there to help you see; they’re there to make you ‘feel’ something," says Lucy. "The right lamp in the right position can make a room feel instantly warmer, more intimate and infinitely more inviting."

With a selection of floor lamps, table lamps, and wall lights, you're well on your way to lighting a living room without a ceiling light, saving you from the dreaded 'big light'.

And for more helpful tips and ideas, subscribe to our newsletter.

It is the one room in a house built around a state we are not awake to experience, and almost everything that determines whether it works — the air, the darkness, the quiet — is invisible. Taking inspiration from Japanese bedrooms, these are the five things I have come to treat as non-negotiable.

They might come across as small foundational changes, but each of these principles makes an impactful difference to the way this space feels. Now, let's explore the why that governs these design decisions.

1. Orientation First, Decoration Second

The first decision is which way the room faces, and it is the least reversible. In that same Surrey house, the master bedroom originally sat at the front, above the main bus road. We moved it to the rear, overlooking the garden.

Nothing specified afterwards — no bed, no palette, no lighting scheme — would have compensated for a bedroom facing traffic. Where a floor is being reconfigured, I place sleeping rooms on the quiet side and give the noisier elevation to rooms where noise matters less. Where walls cannot move, shifting a bed away from a party wall helps.

These simple bedroom layout considerations save you from long-term regrets that disrupt the most important downtime of your day.

2. Free Flowing Ventilation

Close a bedroom door on two sleeping adults, and carbon dioxide climbs past 2,000 parts per million by morning. Field studies comparing ventilated and unventilated bedrooms find better sleep quality and clearer concentration the next day.

Japan has required continuous mechanical ventilation in all new homes since 2003; there is still no equivalent rule here. In a city, an open window is rarely the answer, admitting traffic noise and pollution along with the air.

I find that quiet, continuous extract, trickle vents, genuinely left open, and, where budget allows, heat-recovery ventilation all do the work far more gracefully. And when hot summers come around, much like the moment, poor ventilation planning will be one of the things making your bedroom feel hotter at night. So take note now, for better sleep later.

3. Layered Window Treatments

Thoughtfully stacked layers are one of those things in Japanese homes that make so much sense. A shoji screen transmits roughly half the light falling on it. It does not darken a room so much as soften it, turning hard sunlight into an even glow.

Darkness was achieved separately, with amado — solid wooden or metal shutters slid across the outside at night. That separation is worth borrowing. I specify a sheer linen or voile blind to diffuse daylight much as washi paper does, so a room is bright without glare and private without feeling closed.

Follow this with a genuine blackout layer in front of it. This window treatment layering formula is what makes the dark bedroom in Surrey work. Nothing filters in at four in the morning, and nothing is lost during the day.

So, consider pairing these Stripe Sheer Voile Panel Slot Top Curtains from Laura Ashley with these Brushed Eyelet Blackout Thermal Curtains from M&S.

4. Minimalist Tendencies

This is the criterion the other four answer to. Think a tech-free bedroom with no television, and as little furniture as the room can manage. A bedroom is also where a house quietly deposits its overflow — the drying laundry, the exercise bike, the desk that fitted nowhere else — each asking something of you at the moment you are trying to stop.

In an Ealing house for a couple who practice Japanese floor sleeping on tatami, the bedroom holds a wall-to-wall oak headboard and very little else. It is the most restful room there because nothing competes for attention. The Japanese word yutori (ゆとり) captures this latitude, slack, room to breathe, used up space, time, and mind alike.

5. Materials that Regulate

I also had a client who had developed a severe dust allergy after moving to the UK, which shaped every decision — hard surfaces rather than fabric, slatted timber for acoustics rather than upholstery.

It taught me something I now apply more widely, which is that soft furnishings are the easiest thing to add to a bedroom and the hardest to keep clean. Clay plaster absorbs and releases close to twice the moisture that lime does, buffering the humidity that builds overnight.

Remember that timber, clay, paper and wool all moderate a room. Meanwhile, vinyl and foam simply sit in it.

None of this is restraint for its own sake. A bedroom is the room we return to at the end of every day, and it can either help us wind down for sleep or quietly ask us to keep carrying it. Getting the air, the darkness, and the quiet right is what lets everything else be gentle.

If your bedroom feels far from soothing, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter for more home wellness design tips.

So, at a recent Livingetc event, we posed some hard-hitting questions to some of our interior designer guests — all, of course, on the record. But it was one opinion that made it onto the Livingetc Instagram page that made a few members of the team rethink their at-home habits, specifically.

Designer Christian Bense, when asked about what he first notices when he walks into a home, had a very interesting opinion about a topic that's actually a bit of a hot debate: do you burn your expensive candles from fancy candle brands?

"The first thing I look at when I go to a stylish person's house is I see if they've ever lit their candles," the designer told us. "I have a real thing about candles that are for 'prop only' and never lit."

It all comes down to giving a home a lived-in feeling, the London-based interior designer adds. "I feel like a lit candle, whether it's burning or not, is a true testament to you living in your home, so I judge you hard if you've got candles for show."

Why Is That Controversial to Say?

It feels like it shouldn't be, right? But if you've ever treated yourself to a little something from a luxury candle brand, you might well know the feeling of seeing your investment go up in smoke. Let's face it, yes, you're buying into a (hopefully) better quality of home fragrance that will fill your home with glorious scent, but unless you're storing candles away when they're not lit, you're realistically also buying into a bit of a 'brand flex'.

If you've got a big monthly budget for candles, then this won't worry you, but if those luxury candles are a treat, you may want to keep them for best, or even not light them at all.

However, the glorious thing about Christian's big opinion is that he's not advocating that you actually have to burn away your precious candle; rather, at least give the impression that it's not, after all, your most prized possession.

"A candle wick should always be black, and a candle should always have wax dripping down it," the designer adds. Not that it has to be lit right at that moment.

How to Make Your Candles Look Lived-in

It's an easy enough trick, but one that it pays to do right and avoid those common candle burning mistakes. Yes, you can simply light your wick to make it black, but make sure you blow it out right away. You might be tempted to leave it burning for a few minutes so you can fully enjoy the hot throw, just this once, but that's not a good idea.

"Even if it's just for a few minutes, burning a candle for a short time will cause it to tunnel when you eventually burn it for longer," explains stylist Luke Arthur Wells. "Once the wax has started to melt, you'll need to be in it for the long haul, and you'll probably need to burn for at least three hours to get a full melt pool, but that's fine; you won't have lost much wax in that first burn."

Luke also suggests always putting wicks out with a snuffer, like this chic Ferm Living one from Westwing, rather than blowing them out. This will stop your wax splashing and will also prevent ash from ending up in your melt pool, ruining its perfect surface.

Luke also has a trick: if you keep your dinner candles in a candle holder, too, you can get that 'drip down' look Christian looks for. "Usually dinner candles are just too long straight out of the box anyway, so I often cut them down, and even sharpen them to fit better into the holders. When you light the dinner candle quickly to get its black wick, take the offcut of the base of the candle, and hold it over the lit flame. As it starts to melt, it will drip onto the top of the candles and run down the edges, without having to wait for the actual dinner candle to melt, often unpredictably."

There, you still get the lived-in look, without having to burn down your candles too much.

For more advice, opinion, and tricks to style your home better, why not sign up to the Livingetc newsletter?

Fast-forward to 2026 and the outlook is different. The white walls, plain kitchens and bland room schemes that were once ubiquitous have given way to longer-term – and more interesting interiors.

Whether it's a kitchen renovation, bathroom refit or an extension, homeowners are personalising their spaces again. Color, pattern and daring palettes are back in vogue.

This is, in part, due to the 'forever home' concept, where people plan to buy a property and put down roots, rather 'flip it' for profit. The recent Houzz Home Study reports on these changing shifts in renovation habits.

To see how this translates in the home, we've asked interior designers what people are prioritizing and how this manifests in their design decisions for 2026 and beyond.

1. Challenging the Conventional Purpose of a Room

When homeowners are no longer concerned with what potential buyers might think when they next sell, they are free to create a modern home that actually suits their lifestyle. One of the biggest shifts interior designers have noticed is a willingness to challenge the conventional purpose of a room.

"Now, a guest bedroom that is used only a few nights a year might become a dressing room, exercise studio or teenage snug, with a sofa bed allowing it to accommodate occasional visitors," says interior designer Gemma Tucker, founder of Balance Interiors.

"A surplus bedroom might be absorbed into a generous principal suite, while an underused reception room could become the boot room the family genuinely needs. It's about making every part of the house work harder and improving daily life, rather than protecting a notional resale value."

Interior designer Omar Bhatti, founder Space Shack Studio, sees this in his projects too. "People are much more open to challenging conventional concepts and sacrificing a bedroom, for example, to create a generous dressing room, a larger bathroom, a home gym, or a proper workspace," he says.

"That’s the real luxury of a 'forever home': you stop designing for an imaginary future buyer and start designing unapologetically for yourself."

2. Color Confidence

People are becoming braver aesthetically, experimenting with color and pattern again. When you know you're staying somewhere for the long haul, you can take risks and go for the richer tones or bolder prints that you love, rather than plumping for the 'safe' bet that won't put off potential buyers.

"The instinct to keep everything light, neutral and broadly appealing is giving way to more atmospheric, personal choices," says Gemma. "We are seeing colored ceilings and woodwork, colour-drenched and double-drenched rooms, and greater confidence around expressive cabinetry and finishes.

"For years, renovation decisions were shaped by a familiar set of resale rules: keep the walls neutral, paint the ceilings and woodwork white, preserve every bedroom and retain at least one bath, even if nobody in the household ever uses it. Increasingly, clients are questioning why a future owner’s preferences should take precedence over their own."

Although the Houzz report was based on UK renovation trends, North Carolina-based interior designer Elizabeth Valkovics, founder of Batten Court, has noticed a similar attitude in the US too.

"Clients are embracing bolder choices, such as striking wallcoverings in bathrooms, and murals in dining rooms and bedrooms," says Elizabeth. "This more personalized approach to design elevates spaces from builder-grade boring to a home that is truly their own."

3. Color Commitment

These bolder choices are not just about eye-catching paint tones and dramatic wallcoverings. Color and pattern is creeping into longer-term interior choices too.

"We’re seeing more confidence when it comes to the elements that aren’t easily changed," says Omar. "Previously, someone might introduce personality through paint, cushions, or furniture because those things could be reversed relatively easily.

"Now clients are more willing to commit that personality to the architecture itself. That could be a richly colored kitchen rather than a neutral one, coloured sanitaryware in the bathroom or statement tiles," the designer adds. "I always encourage clients to separate 'timeless' from 'neutral'. Something doesn’t have to be beige, white, or universally appealing to have longevity. If a material or color has a genuine connection to you, rather than simply following a trend, it has a much better chance of feeling relevant in 10 years’ time."

4. Quality Materials

This longer-term attitude to interior design choices is showing up in a preference for quality materials too. Think timber instead of MDF, or stone instead of composites. These not only look and feel more beautiful, but they are more likely to stand the test of time.

"People are installing marble and quartzite countertops over quartz and investing more on gorgeous, quality materials," says Elizabeth. "Natural stone is undeniably beautiful and is one-of-a-kind. Our clients are also seeking quality, unique cabinet hardware."

This is something Omar has noticed too. "Clients are increasingly requesting heavily veined stone, unusual brassware finishes and bespoke joinery in a finish they genuinely love," he says.

5. Bespoke Storage

Custom-designed storage has risen to prominence. A beautiful home that's a joy to live in isn't just about its size or the impressive aspects, like a stylish color scheme, eye-catching artworks or designer furniture. A home needs to run smoothly and function seamlessly for its occupants.

This can be as simple as a wardrobe that comfortably houses all of your outfits or a drawer for your coffee pods, or as detailed as a bespoke closet for sports gear.

"Clients are more prepared to invest in bespoke joinery," says Gemma. "When you expect to live somewhere for many years, built-in cabinetry no longer feels like an extravagance intended for someone else to inherit.

"It becomes an opportunity to resolve the particular frustrations of the home, from shoes gathering in the hallway to wardrobes that never provide quite the right balance of hanging space, drawers and shelving. It can be both highly practical and a defining feature of the interior."

6. Investing in 'Hidden' Elements

Other 'hidden' elements that are a focus in "forever homes" include room lighting that run's on multiple circuits, enabling easy mood switching, charging drawers that keep gadgets and cables out of sight, and efficient work stations.

"In a 'forever home', clients are much more receptive to investing in the things that fundamentally improve how the home feels and functions every day," says Omar.

"That might mean completely reconsidering storage, creating bespoke joinery around a collection, improving lighting throughout the home, integrating technology properly, upgrading acoustics or creating a utility or boot room around the way the family actually uses it."

"These aren't always the most obvious design gestures, but they can be the ones that transform the experience of living somewhere."

Even if a 'forever home' doesn't end up being forever, the concept of planning to stay in a property for as long as possible encourages a commitment that gives greater freedom when making decorating choices, whether that's kitchen colors, a revised layout, or a large extension.

"When resale stops hovering over every decision, the home becomes more individual," says Gemma. "The result is not simply a bolder interior, but one that feels more deeply connected to the people living in it."

If you want help to create your own 'forever home', why not book a session with one of our Design Lab by Livingetc stylists?

The thing is, a blue kitchen is never as simple as it first sounds. It's an overarching term, encapsulating a wide net of styles and finishes. It could refer to a bright sky blue, an icy pale shade, or a moody, inky one. You could opt for a striking Yves Klein blue, a dusty, muted teal, a jewel-toned sapphire, or an enchanting turquoise. There are endless varieties, offering unique effects, which can make picking the right one feel rather intimidating. So, to help you narrow it down, I've asked interior designers for their top Farrow & Ball blues for kitchens, specifically.

A favorite of designers and homeowners alike, there's a reason Farrow & Ball is one of the most recognizable paint brands in the UK, and its collection of blue paints is a perfect testament to what makes it so special. But instead of leaving you with 56 different shades to thumb through, our experts narrowed it down to just three.

1. Kittiwake by Farrow & Ball

The first time I saw this shade used in a kitchen, I immediately had to know exactly what paint color it was. Farrow & Ball's Kittiwake isn't one of its most well-known shades, but it should be. There's such a beautiful clarity to this sky blue shade, like a true breath of fresh air. It's crisp and refreshing, while a subtle touch of black pigment keeps it from feeling too bright.

It's the kind of color you could never tire of, and would work beautifully in practically any room. "I had used Kittiwake in a bedroom a few years ago and loved it," shares designer Maureen Gomez. It wasn't until her clients specifically requested a blue kitchen that it occurred to her how well Kittiwake would work in this setting.

"Kittiwake creates a calm, uplifting atmosphere that works beautifully in a kitchen, particularly one with plenty of natural light," she adds, and in this home, with a large skylight in the kitchen and plenty of natural light flowing, this felt particularly significant. But, even in darker, north-facing kitchens, Kittiwake can still be a good choice. "Unlike some cooler blues, it doesn't feel clinical," notes Maureen.

In terms of styling, Kittiwake pairs beautifully with natural materials, warm tones, and textured finishes, with Maureen listing: "Warm timber, aged brass, natural stone or terracotta, and off-whites" specifically.

2. De Nimes by Farrow & Ball

One of the better-known shades amongst Farrow & Ball's blue paints, De Nimes is a sophisticated, understated blue, with a subtly smoky hue. Comparable to denim, this is perhaps the most neutral a blue can get and, as such, is remarkably easy to use in the home.

This neutrality is exactly what appealed to Heide Hendricks, from Hendricks Churchill. In search of a good white kitchen alternative, Heide landed on this gentle blue. "We wanted to avoid a white kitchen to prevent the space from feeling sterile or lacking coziness. We looked for a saturated color that could still recede and avoid overwhelming the room with too dramatic an effect," she explains, "De Nimes ticked all of those boxes perfectly."

What makes this Farrow & Ball blue kitchen paint color so unique is its ability to appear so understated and subtle, while still being a relatively strong color. Looking at it in the tin, you perhaps wouldn't think of this deep bluey-gray as a neutral kitchen color. But once it's used across the walls or kitchen cabinets, it immediately makes sense. "Even though it is a saturated color, it serves as a neutral backdrop due to its calming mood," Heide adds.

3. Oval Room Blue by Farrow & Ball

Out of all of Farrow & Ball's blue paints for kitchens, Oval Room Blue is described as the most 'blackened', with a strong gray undertone. While this may sound heavy or intense, somehow, it instead translates as something deeply comforting.

Instead of heaviness, these black pigments bring a depth to the shade. It was this sense of depth that made the shade stand out to designer Maddy Minerva. "We wanted a blue that felt timeless, while adding depth and character to the space," she shares.

Named after the sitting rooms of the late 18th century, there's a historic quality to this shade, which works particularly well in rustic, farmhouse kitchens or alongside more traditional kitchen features. Despite this historic aspect, the shade still feels timeless, Maddy says.

While describing a blue shade as warm may seem slightly oxymoronic, in the case of Oval Room Blue, there is a genuine legitimacy to the claim. It feels far cozier than you'd expect from a gray-toned blue, shifting with the light to feel even more inviting. "Oval Room Blue changes beautifully throughout the day," explains Maddy.

This shifting tonality and naturally calming nature is exactly what makes it such a good fit for kitchens. "It adds warmth and depth to what is often a very practical room, creating a calm, inviting atmosphere," says Maddy.

It's also remarkably easy to style, and "pairs effortlessly with natural materials like timber, stone, and brass," says Maddy. Because it's such an adaptable color, with a darker kitchen worktop, the shade will appear brighter in comparison, while it could equally be used to add depth to a brighter, marble kitchen.

Not fully sold on a blue kitchen? Luckily, there are plenty more Farrow & Ball kitchen colors for you to choose from, ranging from neutral to bold, with a little something for everyone.

For more ideas and inspiration, sign up to our newsletter.

Now, the placement of your fire pit has the ability to impact the overarching Feng Shui in your backyard. And the experts recommend styling this element in the Southern zone of your garden.

However, to intentionally design an al fresco space that feels balanced, here's a closer look at why fire pit placement matters.

Where Should You Place a Firepit for Feng Shui?

"In Feng Shui, fire represents vitality, confidence, transformation, and active energy," says Feng Shui expert Helen Ye Plehn. "So, I recommend placing a fire pit in an open, welcoming area where it can become a natural gathering point. The South is especially supportive because it carries strong fire energy in Feng Shui and is connected with confidence and conscious action."

When bringing fire to a garden, Feng Shui consultant Rosanna Deflorian explains that it's also important to consider how the placement aligns with the lucky energy of each year. "Also, the final decision depends on what your home's bagua map allows," she says. "And a position that supports fire in one home may not be suitable in the house next door."

So, while South is a typically ideal spot, she also recommends finding a location that feels naturally integrated into the garden rather than added as an afterthought.

Where Should You Avoid Placing a Firepit for Feng Shui?

"Avoid placing a fire pit where it blocks the flow into the home, feels crowded, or creates a sense of unease," says Helen. "Feng Shui is ultimately about how energy moves through a space, so the fire should feel intentional rather than overpowering."

Rosanna tells me that a major garden Feng Shui mistake involves placing a fire pit in cramped corners, narrow passageways, and high-traffic zones. "I would also avoid surrounding the fire pit with too many bright red or orange accessories. The flames already provide plenty of fire energy. Neutral colours, earthy tones, and natural textures create a calmer setting," she adds.

"The scale matters too. A dramatic fire pit may look impressive in a large garden, but the same feature can feel aggressive in a small courtyard. Good Feng Shui is rarely about making the strongest possible statement. It is about finding the right proportion."

FAQs

What Do You Put Around a Fire Pit for Good Feng Shui?

"Natural Earth materials such as stone, brick, gravel, and ceramic are excellent around a fire pit. Visually, they help ground the area, while symbolically Earth contains and stabilizes the intensity of fire," says Rosanna.

"I would also avoid surrounding the fire pit with too many bright red or orange accessories. The flames already provide plenty of Fire energy. Neutral colours, earthy tones and natural textures create a calmer setting.

Now that you're all caught up on placement, knowing where to buy an aesthetic fire pit is next. And for more Feng Shui advice to bring good energy into your home, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter.

The answers all led to resoundingly stylish scented candles with bold evergreen notes. And all hailing from iconic brands, including the likes of Diptyque, Jo Malone, Acqua di Parma, Loewe, Lola James Harper, and Verden.

Without keeping you in the dark any longer, let's explore which candles these interior tastemakers are putting their perfuming trust in these days. You're bound to find some inspiration for your own home.

If you're looking for a more specific recommendation for the summer, the tea home fragrance trend is having a delicious moment. And if you're in the mood for a little sweetness, this Pistachio Scented Candle from Loewe is the current star of my scentscape.

And to keep up with all the best interior inspiration, fragrance and beyond, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter.

When you're planning a kitchen renovation, there's a whole wealth of decisions you'll have to make, and chief among them is your kitchen countertops. One of the most expensive elements in your design, this is one of those choices you'll want to get right the first time around. After all, there's nothing worse than investing your time and money into a brand new kitchen, just to discover your counters have already gone out of style two months later.

To protect you from that dreaded fate, I asked the experts what colors they've seen fall out of style this year, and their answers were perhaps more illuminating than you might expect. Reflecting a wider trend in design, the designers' answers all point towards a general shift towards warmer, softer tones and finishes in homes today, moving away from the harsh, stark look we once favored.

1. Stark Whites

Once a reliable go-to, in recent years, all-white kitchens have had quite the transformation, and not in a positive way. Having once been favored for the bright, crisp finish they offered, nowadays, you're more likely to hear a white countertop described as 'sterile' than 'stylish'.

"Cool-toned bright white countertops are no longer looking modern in many kitchens," agrees interior designer Swati Goorha. With a design style characterized by her layered use of color and texture, a white counter provides the opposite effect to what Swati aims to create in her projects.

One of the most popular modern kitchen designs in the early 2000s, in 2026, they can quickly look like a dated reminder of a bygone era, completely devoid of that modern sleekness they once offered.

While today's kitchen trends are so dominated by warm colors and earthy, natural textures, the smooth, crisp finish of a white countertop can come off as harsh or sterile.

The kitchen designs of today focus on the room's role in family life, and are designed accordingly. Explaining this, Ntola Obazee, from Kutchenhaus, says, "The kitchen is the heart of the home, so we know people like to create a space that is warmer and inviting." And, unfortunately, a white countertop can often have the adverse effect, making your kitchen feel unwelcoming.

2. Cool Greys

Similarly, the experts warn of a move away from cool grey-toned surfaces, too. Another favorite of the early 2000s, in a design world dominated by earthy color palettes and warm, soft tones, these icy greys feel stark and unwelcoming in comparison.

There's data to back this up, too, with Häfele's Homes for Living 2026 report showing that light grey has fallen from 16% to 13%, with similar declines for dark grey and metallic finishes in kitchens, too.

"There is a clear shift," agrees Tiago Carvalho, interior designer at Main, the kitchen design specialists. "We're moving away from the cool greys and stark whites that have dominated kitchens for so long, towards warmer, more tactile finishes that make the kitchen feel less clinical and more considered."

In modern kitchens, cooler-toned finishes read more sterile and harsh than they once did, and feel incongruous with the general direction of interior design trends.

Of course, this does not mean all grey counters are now out of style. When done in a richly textured, natural stone, or with warm undertones, this neutral finish can still feel super chic.

3. Polished Black Finishes

At the other end of the spectrum, while white counters are rejected based on their sterility, black countertops, too, are deemed too harsh for the kitchens of today.

Much of this comes from the finish and materials that you'll typically find with a black worktop, with designer Ana Li from Linq Kitchen saying, "High-gloss black polished granite and dark polished quartz countertops with stark contrasting white veining have quickly fallen out of favor."

While the contrast of a black stone with white veining was once considered striking and cool, nowadays, the effect can seem too stark, lending your kitchen an overly dramatic effect, as opposed to the quietly dramatic kitchens that are currently in style.

In addition to these aesthetic issues, Ana also highlights the growing concerns around the practicality of this countertop finish. Unlike the gentle matte finishes popular today, these highly polished surfaces can be troublingly unforgiving. "Their shiny plastic-like sheen highlights fingerprints and smudges and creates harsh visual contrast against custom modern kitchen cabinetry," she says. As one of the most highly used rooms in the home, for many, ensuring their kitchen materials are as low-maintenance as possible is a key priority, and sadly, many black counters fail to meet the mark.

Kitchen Accessories We're Loving for 2026

If it's too late for you to change your outdated counters, these on-trend accessories will help to modernize your space.

If you're looking for something that feels undeniably fresh and original, perhaps you'll find some worthy inspiration in the kitchen countertop trends we've been loving this year. With a focus on unexpected materials and twists on classic styles, we hope to see these ideas popping up in many more kitchens in the coming months.

And for even more inspiring ideas, make sure to sign up for our newsletter.

I spoke to the experts about why these design decisions snatch away any sense of peace, and how to fix them for a calming bathroom. It's not all difficult, and some of these are easily solved with a quick reset.

So, without further ado, if you're struggling to evoke that spa-like feeling in your bathroom, here are the culprits to consider.

1. Harsh Lighting

"Many bathrooms rely on a single overhead fixture. This is problematic and stress-inducing by increasing glare and casting shadows that make grooming and self-care feel uncomfortable," says Craig Gritzen, founder of Curated Style Collective.

"Layered bathroom lighting with vertical sconces around the mirror for grooming and a dimmable overhead light for nighttime unwinding helps control the atmosphere during our morning and evening routines."

I also recommend designing spa bathroom lighting ideas into your space. Personally, I love setting the mood to unwind in a dark shower or a long bath with a glowy lamp. For instance, imagine this Ribbed Round LED Lamp from Cox & Cox on your counter or a high open shelf (at a safe distance from your bathing space) gently illuminating your PM routine.

2. Poor Layout Planning

"A bathroom can be beautiful but still cause stress because it doesn't support your daily routine. These are micro frustrations like towels being slightly out of reach of the shower or having no place to put your dirty clothes," says Craig.

"These are relatively minor issues, but multiple can add frustration when repeated every day. So, I recommend fixing it by walking through your daily routine and placing each item at its point of use. Sometimes a simple hook or laundry basket can make all the difference."

Considering your bathroom layout is crucial to easing the flow of the space. I find that strategically placed decor like this Tota Trio Laundry Basket from Joseph Joseph and this Small Wooden Organizer from H&M will improve the functionality of this room.

3. Reminders of Unfinished Tasks

"It's common to overlook seemingly minor things such as leaky faucets, empty water bottles, dirty mirrors, and clutter," says Dr. Amy Fitzpatrick, chief medical officer at Bedrock Recovery. "However, it's these items that can send you silent signals that need your immediate attention."

Speaking to the psychological side of bathroom stressors, Amy explains that fixing these small issues through maintenance is essential to restoring calm to the space. "I also recommend a weekly reset to reduce the mental burden associated with managing your living space," she adds.

And if you're looking to make a more permanent change, switch to low-maintenance bathroom design. In the meantime, lean on bathroom cleaning hacks for a quick fix.

4. Visual Noise

"Bathrooms accumulate a lot of small objects that we use in our daily lives. Products and tools for grooming, medications, half-empty bottles, along with cords, add visual clutter to our spaces," says Craig.

"All of these items compete for our attention, and our brain registers this as a need to tidy up. And the solution isn't stark minimalism. It's to create a system where the items we genuinely use every day remain accessible."

He also recommends storing the backups away and keeping corded items out of sight. Decluttering your bathroom does take consistent effort, but it truly pays off when morning routines call, and you have a tidy space to enjoy it in.

5. Mismatched Design Decisions

"With many things in life, more choice can create more stress, not less. The same goes for your bathroom," says Katie Weston, bathroom expert at VADO. "A space pulled together from mismatched finishes and unrelated products can feel visually chaotic even when every individual piece is nice on its own."

While your fixtures, fittings and accessories don’t need to match perfectly, she explains that co-ordinated ranges can bring the space together. "VADO’s Safari collection, for example, is designed so brassware, furniture and accessories work together across finishes, removing the guesswork and creating a sense of calm cohesion the moment you walk in."

I recommend looping your bathroom organizers into the design palette, too. For a beige bathroom, this Small Decorative Marble Tray from Westwing is perfect. Or if you yearn for a pop of color, look to this Two Tone Hook Shelf from Urban Outfitters.

Next, treat your space to spa bathroom accessories to further elevate the ambiance. And sign up for the Livingetc newsletter for more design advice.

Is your cozy bedroom idea not feeling so cozy these days? As we design our bedroom and live within it, we make design choices that don't always translate well to this specific space. Maybe that oversized headboard in a bold pattern is reading as way too much, or the bedside pendant light you fell in love with is actually too bright. A bedroom design is nuanced — a curated casual, if you will. And if you're having trouble sleeping through the night, it may very well be because you've accidentally designed a few overstimulating elements into your space.

So, to get your sleeping space back to the peaceful retreat it deserves to be, I asked interior designers to identify the biggest offenders. Below are the top four overstimulating things that you might have styled into your room and could be distracting from your design.

1. Personal Clutter

We can probably all agree that personal clutter builds up quickly; be it on the bedside table, the dresser, or the shelves, that accumulation of 'stuff' is an unavoidable part of daily life. However, in a bedroom, this can be a major disruption to your design. As minimalist and wellness-focused interior designer Louisa Grey explains, "Our brains continue to process everything within our field of vision, making it harder for the nervous system to fully relax."

So, "The small accumulations of daily life with nowhere to go — and nowhere to be found when you need them — are a source of stress," adds Interior designer and founder of Vellum Studio, Ronit Lee, who creates calm, considered spaces with a relaxing minimalist style. What you have on your nightstand says a lot about you, and if it's cluttered, you're inviting a more overstimulating environment.

That's not to say you need to swing the opposite direction and wipe the room of personal belongings entirely. A well-designed bedroom will be balanced. There's a spot for everything (clever bedroom storage is essential), so that when a few pieces are left out, they don't overwhelm the entire room. Design your surfaces with enough restraint to leave room for grace on more hectic mornings.

"A letter holder for mail, a generous basket for throws, a dedicated surface for your laptop or books to place your things. When everything has a spot, the room exhales and so do you," says Ronnit. This 'every has a place' attitude is the best way to restyle your nightstand and cultivate a better sleeping atmosphere.

2. An Overly Designed Aesthetic

Which leads us to our next overstimulating bedroom design mistake — an overly styled bedroom. We all get carried away with beautiful Pinterest ideas, but interior designer Georgina Wilson says, "the highly curated, too-nice-to-touch bedroom is beginning to feel overdone. What once felt luxurious can now come across as overly designed." And when your bedroom feels too curated and perfect, relaxation becomes harder to achieve, creating a more stressful environment.

Georgina highlights specific design choices such as a fully upholstered feature wall behind the bed. "People are gravitating towards bedrooms that feel more relaxed and authentic, with texture introduced through layers of furniture, textiles, and materials rather than one oversized statement installation," she says. So, while something like a patterned, extended headboard may read as chic in a five-star hotel, it can overstimulate a small bedroom design.

But, as usual, it's all in how you do it. A good guide for choosing elements to include starts with soft, tactile elements first. As Ronnit says, "Soften everything." A well-placed bedroom rug defines the room and gives your feet an inviting place to land. If space allows, a soft seating area to sink into that's not the bed can help you unwind. And a throw and a few pillows are always comforting. "Textiles and texture are what make a space feel welcoming rather than just decorated," adds Ronnit.

3. Pendant Lights Next to the Bed

Pendant lights hanging over either nightstand in place of table lamps are a trend I have been loving. The look is so elevated, but unfortunately it can be quite an overstimulating feature to include in your sleep space. It's one of those design versus practicality debates.

As Georgina explains, "While they can look beautiful in photos, they're often impractical." The reason centers around bedroom feng shui mistakes — pendant lights swing, can be awkward to use, and "more than a few people have hit their heads on them," adds Georgina.

So while a layered lighting scheme is practically essential to a relaxing bedroom design, you might want to rethink the pendant light over the nightstand look. The good news? There are plenty of other beautiful bedroom lighting ideas to incorporate instead.

4. Too Many Electronics

As the world continues to fight against the oversaturation of screens and introduce more analogue routines, a tech-free bedroom is a must for keeping those electronics at bay. Louisa explains, "Electronic items are such an energy drain and a distraction in the bedroom; from televisions, unconsidered lighting plans, charging cables, and multiple electronic devices."

"All of these contribute to visual and cognitive stimulation," adds Louisa. Even when switched off, they focus us on brain work, communication, and the outside world. Instead, design a sleeping space that has moments of stillness — even creating a digital-detox corner dedicated to reading or a calming hobby, is a fabulous place to start.

Ask yourself, 'How do I want to feel when I wake up? How do I want to feel before I fall asleep?' "Let those answers guide your decisions. When a bedroom supports the senses through natural materials, considered lighting, mood-stabilizing colors, and meaningful simplicity, beauty becomes a by-product of wellbeing rather than the objective itself," says Louisa.

No one wants their bedroom to feel empty or overstimulating, so filling it with design choices that cater directly to your ideal sleeping and relaxation environment is the best way in. Bring character without overly designed elements, and personality without 'stuff'.

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

Think paying attention to the mood of a space, frequently refreshing the ambiance, using creative actions to manage a home, noticing overlooked details, and getting bored of visual routines. If anything, it'll teach you how to be more organized at home.

Here's how each of these design habits makes a difference to living spaces.

1. Pay Attention to How Surroundings Affect Moods

Dr. Max Doshay, PsyD, CEO of KMN Psych, tells me that people who frequently rearrange their furniture generally have a high awareness of how an individual's environment impacts their mental health.

"The majority of these people can see when a space has too much clutter, is overcrowded, or is uninviting to them," he explains. "In turn, they will typically adjust this to improve its visual appeal."

So don't be surprised if you know someone like this who has a tech-free bedroom and has taken the time to curate digital detox zones for a calmer indoor atmosphere.

2. Frequently Refresh Their Environments

"The people who continually move the layout of their homes are usually looking for something new and interesting to do while still avoiding significant changes in their lives," says Dr. Amy Fitzpatrick, chief medical officer at Bedrock Recovery.

"These individuals find that changing their home environment will allow them to experience some variety or freshness within their existing daily routine and possibly stimulate the need to be motivated as well."

If you feel like your home is out of sync, this is a simple way to reconnect with your space. Consider resetting your home for summer or start with decluttering micro-resets for a more functional approach.

3. Use Action to Manage Stress

"For many people, the act of rearranging their living spaces can provide an opportunity for them to regain some sense of control in times of extreme levels of stress," says Amy.

"It might not directly resolve or eliminate the cause of your stress. However, completing a physically active project may result in a sense of accomplishment and help to reduce feelings of chaos and disorder within that environment."

For instance, creating a morning shift routine and indulging in pockets of decluttering can act as a stress-relieving activity.

4. Notice Overlooked Details

If you're someone who loves experimenting with furniture stylings, Amy finds that you are also the type of person to pay very close attention to how rooms look. And as someone guilty of this trait, it's pretty spot on.

It goes beyond just clocking sofa layout mistakes. These people tend to notice things that quietly make living rooms feel stressful at a moment's notice, too. And Amy agrees.

"They naturally notice things like lighting, traffic flow, and clutter," she says. "Moving furniture is just one way they make a space feel more comfortable, functional, or visually balanced as well."

5. Grow Bored of Visual Routines

Max also finds that people who rearrange their furniture are quick to grow bored with monotonous visual routines. "Furniture is one way people create expressions about themselves without using ornaments," he says.

"The furniture is laid out based on their current needs, habits, and preferences. A house doesn’t only provide a place for us to reside; it typically extends who we perceive ourselves as in that time of our lives."

To these people, finding their taste is an ever-changing journey. As it will be for everyone, but these individuals will be more aware and open to adjusting the vibe of a space every step of the way.

Learning more about the way you interact with your home can help you foster a better routine. And understanding the habits of people who make their beds every day is a great stepping stone.

In the meantime, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter for your update on everything of the moment in the world of design.

“You can usually tell [an expensive-looking sofa from a standard one] by looking at the overall finish rather than the price tag,” Monika Puccio from Sofa Club tells us. “Expensive-looking sofas tend to have better proportions, high-quality fabrics, neat stitching and cushions that keep their shape,” she adds. “So it's often the small details that make the biggest difference.”

So, if 2026 is the year you’re upgrading your seating space, discover the five designer-approved design details the most expensive sofas all have in common right now.

1. Warm Neutral Tones

If you missed the newsflash, decorating with warm neutral colors is very much hot in 2026 (and beyond). And these neutral color swatches (like cream, clay, and cinnamon) extend way beyond the paint on your walls. Instead, according to Monika, it's best to choose sofas in these timeless shades as they help to create a luxurious finish.

“Shades like stone, oatmeal, beige, mushroom, chocolate brown, and earthy greens are replacing cool grays,” Monika says. But beige doesn't mean boring. In fact, it's far from it. “These colors feel timeless and work well in most homes,” the expert adds.

2. Natural Fabrics

Color is often the first design decision weighed up when considering, well… any new interior design purchase — and understandably so. There’s no doubt that the color of your couch can set the tone for your entire living room, but Monika says that the right fabrics are just as important for creating a polished seating space.

The key question is what couch fabrics ooze a luxurious look? “Natural-looking fabrics like luxe chenille, bouclé, boucle/chenille mix, velvet, linen/linen mix, and quality leather instantly make a sofa feel more luxurious,” Monika says. “[That’s because] luxury is all about quality and simplicity,” she adds.

Louise McGarry, creative director of Studio Braw, agrees, suggesting that it’s worth choosing natural fibers like heavyweight linen, mohair, or a "beautifully-tailored" wool blend over anything synthetic or overly shiny, as the latter can "look and feel cheaper" no matter how good the silhouette is. “Fabric is where you really feel the difference,” Louise says. “A natural, tactile textile drapes and ages beautifully, developing character over time, whereas cheaper fabrics tend to look tired quickly.”

Maria Ramirez, founder of BB Interiors, echoes this point, stating: “A truly luxurious sofa should tell the story of the home it lives in, not look exactly the same ten years later." According to the interior designer, that's because natural materials have "depth and movement" that synthetic ones "struggle to imitate".

3. Curved Shapes and Architectural Silhouettes

When it comes to the shape of your couch, the world of sofa shops is your oyster. In 2026, there are all different types of sofas you should know about before you settle on your chosen seating arrangement, from sectional sofas and modular options to loveseats and motion sofas.

But the key to making your seating space look high-end? Opting for sofas that have curve appeal. So when it comes to curved sofas vs straight sofas, in this instance, curved options win every time.

“The sofas that feel most luxurious in 2026 are moving away from rigid, boxy forms towards softer, more architectural silhouettes,” Maria says. “Gentle curves are becoming increasingly popular, not because they are fashionable, but because they beautifully bridge traditional and contemporary design. That transitional quality is what gives them longevity. They feel just as at home in a Georgian townhouse as they do in a modern apartment, which is exactly what timeless design should do.”

4. A Generous Scale in Proportion

“The details I always notice on a truly well-made sofa are, first, the depth and proportion,” Louise says. “The best pieces are generously scaled but never bulky, with a seat depth that's been carefully considered for how the sofa will actually be used, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. For example, a conversational sofa will be firmer and shallower vs a sofa for a snug.”

Which is why Louise says it’s all about restraint and precision. “A generous and well-proportioned frame signals confidence in the design,” she adds.

5. The 'Hardware'

There’s no denying that when choosing from the different sofa design styles, comfort is key. But a sofa is so much more than a space just to sit. So it’s not just the shape, fabric, and color worth paying attention to. The legs, base, and edging will add to the high-end look.

“Luxury is almost always found in the details,” suggests Maria. “A beautifully piped edge, a subtle flange seam, hand-finished upholstery, solid timber feet, or perfectly tailored cushions all communicate quality without demanding attention.”

But instead of plucking for anything too trend-driven, Maria suggests picking a sofa that puts quiet luxury and elevated craftsmanship at the forefront. "The most expensive-looking sofas tend to have one beautiful detail executed exceptionally well, rather than five competing for attention," she notes. "Ultimately, beautifully executed craftsmanship creates visual calm because every detail feels considered."

As you can see, there are a few design details worth looking out for before buying your next seating arrangement. And before you do, it's also worth knowing where to buy a sofa. Thankfully, our expert-backed guide is a comprehensive guide on the best sofa and couch shops. It also covers everything from the average price for a sofa to the comfiest filling.

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When explaining how to plan your home's lighting scheme, there is one idea that expert designers will often refer back to. It is, in essence, to light the 'edges', not the 'middle'. This means that rather than focusing the bulk of your lighting in the center of the room, as is traditionally done, you should instead illuminate your space by dotting lighting around the periphery. If you've ever complained of the dreaded 'big light', you'll already be familiar with the benefits of this technique. By cutting out harsh, overhead lighting, you're left with a softer, more diffused effect, making your home feel more welcoming and relaxing.

Lighting can often feel like a bit of a mystery, which is exactly why I reached out to the lighting consultants to help it all make a bit more sense. With their help, I've got to the bottom of why this technique works so well as well as how to put it into action. And, as an extra treat, I've even found some stylish lights that would be perfect for this approach.

Why the Designers Swear by This Rule

As much as we love a good statement chandelier moment, on the whole, if your only light source is smack dab in the middle of the room, you're doing your space a disservice. While overhead lighting offers an obvious functional benefit, it will always fall short when it comes to creating an atmosphere. Unlike an overhead light alternative, these harsh fittings will ultimately flatten your space, making you work 10 times harder to design a cozy living room that actually feels inviting.

Whatever is closest to the light fitting will be the most accentuated, so when most of the texture and intrigue exists on the walls, it makes more sense to concentrate the lighting around the outer edge of the room. "We are always looking for surfaces and interesting textures to reflect light off," explains lighting design consultancy Lighting by Plum's creative director Michael Thorpe.

Limewashed walls, mirrored surfaces, and wall decor pieces are all excellent examples of finishes that could benefit from this additional illumination. And, as Michael explains, "Not only does this enhance or 'dress' the space, but it actually provides more illuminance and can make the space feel bigger and brighter." In small living rooms, combining reflective surfaces with ample, soft lighting is one of the best ways to create the illusion of more space and make your small room look bigger.

When you rely on a single, centrally placed overhead light, the effect will be an intensely bright middle, which is likely where your main seating area will be, surrounded by dark, dingy corners, when, in reality, what you want is the exact opposite. In creating a consistent glow around the perimeter of the room, the whole room will benefit from the illumination, without it feeling overly intense.

There's also a certain logic behind this approach. As Michael explains it, "Typically, the center of a space is often a route through to another 'destination', so adding light centrally can feel a bit lost or surplus to requirement." Concentrating lighting around entrances and exits will not only make the space feel more welcoming, but it also makes more sense logistically, providing a clear route to follow around the room.

How to Use It

There are plenty of different ways to put this technique in action, adapting and adjusting it according to the room you're designing. With kitchen lighting and bedrooms alike, this approach can make every room feel that bit cozier, without sacrificing any of the functionality.

One of Michael's go-to techniques is "using plaster-in or uplighting profiles around the perimeter of the space for a reflected glow." These plastered-in lights make for a more subtle effect, perfect for homes with a minimalist design style, where you want minimal visual intrusion.

Another way you'll often see experts use this technique is in how they light art. Not only does an art light help accentuate the work, but it will, by extension, bring a gentle glow to your space. For Michael, this is done by "carefully positioning downlights or spotlights onto walls for art, pictures and interesting textures." Or, for architectural features, he suggests, "integrating uplights to highlight entrance doors and window reveals."

In its simplest form though, this technique takes the shape of a soft, layered lighting scheme. Think floor lamps and table lamps dotted around a living room, "ensuring they surround you for a more cosy, intimate feel." A combination of soft lighting will always help bring more depth to a room, enrobing it in a cloak of warmth.

The Best Lights For This Technique

Searching for some more ways to level up your lighting game? Take a peek at Lee Brom's lighting tips, taken straight from his gorgeous New York penthouse.

The opposite side of the Atlantic, meanwhile, EBBA Architects-designed Cup of Joy is a masterclass in spaces oozing with sunshine-like flair. And for more ideas to elevatEe your space, subscribe to our newsletter.

In the past these have included fixtures and fittings such as wall-mounted radiators, knobs and handles for kitchen cabinets, a central pendant light in pretty much every room and, lets not forget the humble kettle. Most of us have now come to realize that there are contemporary ways of sidestepping all of these thanks to the fast-paced world of ever-evolving kitchen trends, and yet there seem to be certain features that have slipped through the net — kitchen upstands being one of them.

Kitchen upstands are designed to neaten up the joint between countertop and wall and to offer a little protection — but are they really still necessary? I've certainly been questioning my own just lately and, with a kitchen remodel on the horizon, I'm keen to look into other options. I spoke to a range of top design experts, and here's what they had to say.

Are Kitchen Upstands Still in Fashion?

If, like me, you are currently busy drawing up a list of all your favourite modern kitchen ideas in a bid to ensure your new space remains looking fresh and relevant for many years to come, you really need to pay attention to the finer details.

While kitchen upstands, also sometimes referred to as 3" or 4" backsplashes, remain a common feature of many kitchens, according to Shelly Yoder, a project designer at Next Stage Design + Build, the way in which they are being viewed and used is changing. "An upstand made sense in an era when the goal was simply to protect the wall behind the counter. As a design element, though, it's always been a compromise: too short to be a real visual statement, too present to be invisible. There are only a few instances where an upstand still makes sense in a design, such as breaking up the pattern of the wall and the kitchen counter. In most of the kitchens we design today, clients are choosing one of two directions instead, and both look significantly more considered."

Camilla Masi, interior designer at Otto Tiles & Design, agrees that upstands aren't necessarily something to be avoided at all costs, but rather a feature that needs careful consideration in order to elevate rather than date a kitchen. "I don't think upstands have fallen out of fashion, but I do think the way we're using them has changed. The standard 100mm upstand is certainly less popular than it once was, particularly in more contemporary kitchens where the preference is to take the stone or tile further up the wall as a backsplash or entire feature wall. It creates a cleaner, more seamless look and allows the material to become a much stronger design feature."

What Is Being Used Instead of Kitchen Upstands?

It appears, then, that traditional 100mm, straight upstands are increasingly being shunned in favor of a range of more modern alternatives, although interior designer Caroline Montague is keen to point out that rather than being an outdated kitchen trend, it can be more a case of using them in a more considered way. "What can make a kitchen look dated is using an upstand almost by default, without considering what else is happening on the wall. I would never use a stone upstand and then begin a tiled backsplash immediately above it, for example. For me, it should be one or the other, never both."

"I don’t think there is one universal replacement for an upstand," continues Caroline. "In some kitchens, a marble or stone upstand will still look entirely appropriate. In another, tiles taken directly to the countertop, or a durable painted wall may feel cleaner and more contemporary. It depends on the architecture of the room, the materials being used, and how practical the surface needs to be. A traditional or more layered kitchen may suit a stone upstand beautifully, whereas a simpler contemporary scheme may benefit from leaving the wall uninterrupted. My approach would be to choose one clear solution: an upstand, a backsplash, or sometimes nothing at all. The kitchen begins to look dated when several different treatments are combined where one would have been enough."

That said, if, like me, you are seeking out alternatives to the standard kitchen upstand, these are the design ideas the experts I spoke to suggested instead.

1. A slab backsplash

Perhaps one of the most popular features to emerge in recent years is the slab backsplash, where the countertop material, or another solid surface, is extended right up the wall from the counter — perfect for creating the quietly dramatic kitchen trend that is currently so popular.

Leila Touwen, co-founder of Pluck, explains just why this is such a good alternative to the standard kitchen upstand. "The continuation of a countertop into the upstand creates a seamless transition from the flat plane to the vertical. If you have opted for a particularly special countertop material, say marble or terrazzo, it is an opportunity to show a little more of this and to make a statement with that material so that it has a bigger role in the room’s scheme. How high you go is up for debate — 100mm is standard, but we now frequently design kitchens with upstands higher than this, at which point the upstand becomes a backsplash."

Shelly Yoder agrees that the slab backsplash can make a stunning modern kitchen feature. "A continuous run of stone or quartz from the counter surface up to the upper cabinets, with no visible seam or grout line, is the cleanest possible resolution of the counter-to-wall transition. It works beautifully in kitchens with darker elements especially. The uninterrupted material plane gives the space a tailored, almost furniture-like quality that an upstand or even a tiled backsplash can't replicate."

Ash McCullough, lead designer at Blakes London, goes on to explain that this is definitely her preferred way of making a statement in the kitchen. "When it comes to upstands, we favour taking the chosen material as far up the wall as the budget allows. Rather than stopping at a small upstand, we'll often continue the stone or tile to a decorative shelf or the underside of a wall unit before transitioning back to painted walls. Where possible, we love to carry the material all the way to the ceiling, creating a more architectural and elevated feel. Extending the material in this way allows its beauty, texture and character to become a defining feature of the space without overwhelming the overall scheme. It's an approach that works equally well in both contemporary and traditional kitchens, adding a sense of permanence, craftsmanship and quiet luxury that never goes out of style."

2. A Full Wall of Tiles

While kitchen tile trends might come and go, this is one material that rarely falls out of favor entirely and, thanks to the enormous range of sizes, shapes colours and designs on offer, tile can offer up the potential for creating some really stunning alternatives to the upstand.

"A full-height tiled backsplash that runs continuously from countertop to upper cabinet is the most common replacement we see, and when the tile is well chosen, it transforms the wall behind the counter into an intentional design feature rather than a protective afterthought," picks up Shelly Yoder. "In one of our recent projects, a contemporary kitchen with white flat-front cabinetry, a textured ceramic tile was taken the full height behind the range, creating a visual anchor for the space that an upstand simply couldn't achieve. In another, a bold geometric yellow tile extended from counter height all the way to the ceiling as a feature wall. Neither of these reads as a solution to a problem. They read as design decisions."

"If tiles are being used, I would bring them directly down to the countertop rather than adding a separate strip of stone beneath them," advises Caroline Montague. "The tiles then become the wall treatment in their own right, rather than competing with another material."

3. Carved and Scalloped Designs Over Straight

Sometimes, simply thinking beyond standard straight lines is all that's needed in order to bring an upstand up to date and more in-line with modern interior design trends — and curved, decorative upstands can become design features in their own right.

"I've seen some beautiful interpretations of the upstand recently," reveals Camilla Masi. "I particularly love marble upstands where the exposed ends have been finished with a soft scalloped profile rather than a straight cut. Paired with a bullnosed countertop, it introduces a subtle decorative detail that feels crafted rather than purely functional.

"I've also seen designs that incorporate a slim ledge and extend higher up the wall," adds Camilla. "At that point, I'd probably describe it as a backsplash rather than an upstand, but it's a good example of how the detail has evolved rather than disappeared."

4. Nothing at all

There is an argument these days, with a wider range of durable and super-resilient countertop materials, superior kitchen installation techniques and hardwearing paint finishes, that there is no need for any kind of upstand at all.

If you're after a clean, fuss-free finish and want to indulge in a few of the latest kitchen color trends too, this is an approach Caroline Montague highly recommends. "An upstand is no longer essential in every kitchen. There are so many durable, washable paints available now that it is perfectly possible to take a painted wall directly down to the worktop, particularly in areas that are not exposed to constant splashes or cooking.

"That can create a very clean result, although the paint still needs to be suitable for a hardworking kitchen and the junction between the worktop and wall must be finished properly."

FAQs

Upstand vs Backplash — What's the Difference?

It is important to recognize that upstands and backsplashes are two quite different things — similar, yes, but not the same.

Upstands tend to be made from the same material as the countertop and usually rise up just 100mm, 150mm at a push. They are there primarily to hide the juncture where wall and counter meet.

Backsplashes, on the other hand, extend much higher than this — often right up to the underside of open shelves or wall cabinets, or even to the ceiling. Their primary function is to protect the walls from everyday culinary splashes and spills, therefore materials need to be easy-to-clean and robust.

Whether you decide to opt for a dramatic full-height backsplash or a more modest, classic upstand, the choice needs to be made with your kitchen countertop ideas in mind — the two need to work perfectly next to one another.

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