August 30, 2024 • 13 mins
null
(0:00) Welcome and episode introduction
(0:34) Creating a cozy, inviting space with antiques and reclaimed accents
(2:15) Enhancing your home with mixed furnishings and old-world finishes
(3:30) The impact of molding, trim, and metal finishes on interior design
(4:34) Bathroom revamps: Unique sinks, design trends, and modern tiling
(5:08) Adding warmth with table lamps and personal gallery walls
(6:11) Incorporating houseplants and avoiding outdated bathroom elements
(7:03) Modernizing bathroom storage and ditching passé tiles
(8:46) Making statements with wall finishes and updated cabinetry
(9:57) Sponsor: West Elm's Expandable Countertop Organizer
(10:56) Episode wrap-up and sign-off
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:00):
Welcome to another episode of Daily InteriorDesign Inspo, your go-to podcast for affordable
and modern interior design tips.
I am your host, Betsy Helmuth, and today I amexcited to share some fantastic ideas to make
your new home feel like you have lived therefor years.
Whether you are in NYC, Westchester, NewJersey, Connecticut, or Washington DC, these
(00:25):
tips will help you create a cozy, invitingspace without breaking the bank.
Moving into a new home or a freshly renovatedspace can be exhilarating, but sometimes that
brand-new look can feel a bit too sterile.
We are not suggesting that you rip out your newfloors to replace them with reclaimed barn
(00:49):
wood, but with a little effort, you can makeeven the newest home look like it has a bit of
charming history.
We consulted with some design pros to bring youdo-it-yourself ideas and mini upgrades that
homeowners or renters can make to give theirhome that lived-in look.
Let us dive into these tips!
(01:10):
First up, say yes to secondhand items.
Adding antique furnishings and accessories toyour home is the fastest and easiest way to add
a lived-in aesthetic, says Deb Foglia, theblogger behind Seeking Lavender Lane and the
founder of Vintage Keepers.
Ninety percent of the stuff in her house isvintage.
Pieces that have charm and were once loved bysomeone else instantly transition the feel of
(01:34):
your home.
Next, embrace reclaimed accents.
If you already have newer furnishings, WhitneyLeigh Morris, the creator of the Tiny Canal
Cottage and author of Small Space Style,suggests adding a dash of reclaimed materials
around your house to up the charm factor.
(01:55):
Vintage hinges, door knobs, and pulls can workwonders.
Similarly, you can top a console, countertop,or dresser with a surface of repurposed
materials like reclaimed wood or natural stone,which you can have sized to your
specifications.
Mixing and matching is another great tip.
(02:18):
Both Morris and Foglia note that matchy-matchyfurnishings and finishes are often hallmarks of
a new space.
If possible, mix up your new furniture witholder pieces and shop from a variety of brands,
not just one retailer.
The sofa and armchair can indeed contrast, saysMorris.
(02:40):
This approach echoes a time whennewly-manufactured goods were not so prevalent,
and unique, mismatched, and homemade goodsdecorated well-loved rooms.
Layer on old-world wall finishes.
Morris has spent the last year building a newhouse, but the brand-new structure looks
anything but sterile thanks to the texturedappearance of her walls.
(03:04):
Old homes develop beautiful, rich patinas ofall sorts over time, says Morris.
A way to attain a similar feeling is throughthe application of layered lime paint and
Tadelakt, a plaster topcoat.
The origins of these concoctions date backcenturies, so they inherently offer an
(03:25):
old-world, texture-rich look when applied towalls and ceilings.
Tack up some trim.
Another tactic to enliven drywall is to addmolding and trim.
Foglia added picture frame molding in severalrooms of her home and says it is a project you
can do yourself if you have basicdo-it-yourself skills, a miter saw, and ideally
(03:50):
a nail gun.
Any wainscoting, shiplap, or molding gives aroom dimension and instantly looks older, says
Foglia.
Mind your metals.
Pay attention to the finishes on hardware, doorknobs, and light fixtures, say designers Erin
Wheeler and Amy Burgess.
I really love brass, especially antique brass,which makes a room feel a little more lived-in,
(04:15):
like it has a story, says Wheeler.
She notes that while it is a small detail, thepatina and warmth of the metal can change the
look of the whole room.
And do not worry about matching all yourmetals: A variety of finishes will make a room
look collected over time.
Swap out your bathroom sink.
(04:36):
If you want to add more character to yourbathroom without ripping everything out and
starting from scratch, Foglia says look to thesink.
In her own home, she used a reclaimed hammambowl as a sink.
A vintage vessel sink is usually affordable andinstantly gives space more character than a
traditional one, she says.
(04:57):
Another option?
Place a sink on top of a vintage dresser orcabinet instead of an off-the-shelf vanity—all
you need to do is drill a few holes forplumbing.
Utilize table lamps.
Your home may be blessed with state-of-the-artlighting, but there is nothing like accent
lamps to create a cozy atmosphere.
(05:18):
And, the design pros we spoke to say the morethe merrier.
Foglia notes that lamps are especiallyimpactful in the kitchen, where they add
unexpected living room styling.
Install a truly personal gallery wall.
Nothing says collected over time like a gallerywall.
(05:41):
Wheeler says that it does not even matter ifyou actually bought your artwork online instead
of in a number of antique stores over theyears.
A gallery wall can quickly evoke the feeling ofa well-loved home, especially if you weave in
personal mementos and photographs.
Mixed into Wheeler's own wall assemblage are ahandkerchief that her business partner Burgess
(06:05):
brought back from a trip and a photo of hergrandfather from the 1940s.
Finally, get some plants.
Bringing in actual living things, also known ashouseplants, is a great way to make your house
feel more homey.
To supply even more charm, mix and matchplanter and pot styles and choose a variety of
(06:27):
different leaf types and plant sizes.
Morris is a big proponent of this design move,and she has plants in every corner of her
home–even the shower.
While interior design trends seem to cyclefaster than ever these days, bathroom design
trends tend to last a bit longer.
After all, renovating a bathroom is a majorcommitment.
(06:51):
Still, if this space in your home feels a bitstale, it might be time for an update.
Here are seven reasons why your bathroom mightlook dated—along with some ideas to make it
more current.
Nothing dates a bathroom more than anold-school medicine cabinet taking up space
beside your vanity mirror, says designer RobinBaab Olascoaga.
(07:13):
I am not knocking the functionality of amedicine cabinet, but there are so many sleek
and modernized versions integrated into vanitymirrors that offer both functionality and
style.
Ditch the visible side mirror in favor of avanity medicine cabinet or conceal the door
with your wall material to create a hiddenlook.
(07:36):
While a medicine cabinet offers some storage,it is not the most efficient solution for
anything beyond small bottles.
Consider installing a larger vanity withdrawers and shelves instead.
Stay away from solid square tiles at all costs,says Chelsea Marks, co-owner of Paynes Gray.
Even if you find a tile with some texture thatyou think might work—do not do it.
(08:00):
She recommends opting for staggered orpatterned tiles instead.
If you want something versatile and timeless,yet simple, a herringbone pattern in marble or
ceramic tile is a fantastic choice.
Whether it was at your friend’s new house or atrendy restaurant, for years you could not walk
into a bathroom without seeing subway tile.
(08:21):
The look became so oversaturated that it is nowstarting to feel dated.
Subway tile is out, Marks says.
Sorry, but I have to say it.
It can still feel current if done right, but itwill look extremely dated in five years—I
promise.
With so many different shapes and styles oftile available today, there are plenty of ways
(08:42):
to get creative without opting for subway tile.
Tile borders and accent strips were a hot looka few years ago, but now they can make your
bathroom look dated.
Continuous tiling without interruption orstatement walls with large tiles or unique
patterns are more modern, says interiordesigner Amy Switzer.
(09:03):
However, that does not mean your bathroom hasto be monochromatic.
If your bathroom is a sea of beige, from tilesto paint, it is time to introduce some
contrast.
A pop of color, a bold vanity, or even astatement mirror can add much-needed life.
Fuzzy bath mats might feel nice on your feet,but they are incredibly dated and borderline
(09:29):
unhygienic.
I should not have to say this, but do not putcarpet in a bathroom, Marks says.
Even a shaggy bath mat is a no.
Not only does it look like 1978, but the ideaof a shaggy rug soaking up water day after day
is disgusting.
If you like a soft feeling underfoot, opt for awashable memory foam bathmat instead.
(09:53):
It will look sleeker and still provide thatcomfy feel.
Dark wood cabinetry was popular for about adecade, but Switzer notes that it can make a
bathroom feel heavy and outdated.
Lighter tones, floating vanities, or sleekmatte finishes are more in line with modern
(10:13):
design trends, she explains.
If you like dark colors in a bathroom, go withbold, dark tile or deep-hued wallpaper, but
keep the cabinetry light.
Swapping out light fixtures is one of theeasiest ways to update a bathroom.
Heavy, traditional fixtures with intricatedetailing can date a bathroom quickly, says
(10:34):
Switzer.
She advises re-evaluating your bathroomlighting scheme and replacing outdated fixtures
with minimalist, sleek, or matte black designsto bring a fresh look.
Those rows of round bulbs scream the 1990s, shesays.
Switching to modern sconces or backlit mirrorscan instantly update the space.
(10:56):
Our final topic today is something that canmake a huge difference in your kitchen,
especially if you are battling with limitedcounter space.
We are talking about the $38 ExpandableCountertop Organizer from West Elm.
This clever little gadget is selling fast, andfor good reason!
(11:17):
If you are like me and have struggled withminimal counter space, this product is a
game-changer.
I remember my old apartment’s kitchen had acountertop size of approximately one square
foot.
For years, I never bought any appliances beyondmy toaster and my coffee maker because they
simply would not fit.
(11:38):
I even had to buy a shelving unit from IKEAjust to store my basic items.
That is why I wish I had come across West Elm’sExpandable Countertop Organizer sooner.
This nifty find is perfect for anyone lookingto create more storage and make their kitchen
more functional.
(11:58):
Even if you have a bigger kitchen, like I donow, creating more storage space is always a
good idea.
So, what exactly is the Expandable CountertopOrganizer?
Unlike most risers that are fixed in size, thisone can expand and contract to fit any space.
Fully contracted, it is a little under 11inches, and fully extended, it is just under 18
(12:24):
inches.
Despite its sleek, low-profile frame that willblend right into your kitchen, the organizer is
made of sturdy steel that supports up to 11pounds.
Height-wise, it is six inches tall, so you canstore plenty of items underneath it too.
You can take your cue from West Elm andpurchase a shallow basket to slide underneath
(12:46):
it.
There are tons of routes you can take with thisorganizer.
For example, the basket can hold coffee pods,while the organizer keeps your coffee maker
elevated.
It can hold your water bottle collection orextra dishes.
The possibilities are endless!
Do not make the mistake of giving up on yourminimal counter space too quickly; this
(13:11):
organizer will double your surface area andmake your kitchen more functional for under 40
dollars.
Plus, it is versatile enough to use in otherplaces in your home.
It can go on a shelf, in your under-sinkcabinet, or even on your vanity.
The options are endless, but the stock is not,so snag it as soon as you can!
(13:34):
That wraps up today’s episode of Daily InteriorDesign Inspo.
I hope you found these tips and productrecommendations helpful for making your home
feel more lived-in and updating those datedspaces.
Join me again tomorrow for more designinspiration.
Until next time, happy decorating!
Welcome to another episode of Daily InteriorDesign Inspo, your go-to podcast for affordable
and modern interior design tips.
I am your host, Betsy Helmuth, and today I amexcited to share some fantastic ideas to make
your new home feel like you have lived therefor years.
Whether you are in NYC, Westchester, NewJersey, Connecticut, or Washington DC, these
(00:25):
tips will help you create a cozy, invitingspace without breaking the bank.
Moving into a new home or a freshly renovatedspace can be exhilarating, but sometimes that
brand-new look can feel a bit too sterile.
We are not suggesting that you rip out your newfloors to replace them with reclaimed barn
(00:49):
wood, but with a little effort, you can makeeven the newest home look like it has a bit of
charming history.
We consulted with some design pros to bring youdo-it-yourself ideas and mini upgrades that
homeowners or renters can make to give theirhome that lived-in look.
Let us dive into these tips!
(01:10):
First up, say yes to secondhand items.
Adding antique furnishings and accessories toyour home is the fastest and easiest way to add
a lived-in aesthetic, says Deb Foglia, theblogger behind Seeking Lavender Lane and the
founder of Vintage Keepers.
Ninety percent of the stuff in her house isvintage.
Pieces that have charm and were once loved bysomeone else instantly transition the feel of
(01:34):
your home.
Next, embrace reclaimed accents.
If you already have newer furnishings, WhitneyLeigh Morris, the creator of the Tiny Canal
Cottage and author of Small Space Style,suggests adding a dash of reclaimed materials
around your house to up the charm factor.
(01:55):
Vintage hinges, door knobs, and pulls can workwonders.
Similarly, you can top a console, countertop,or dresser with a surface of repurposed
materials like reclaimed wood or natural stone,which you can have sized to your
specifications.
Mixing and matching is another great tip.
(02:18):
Both Morris and Foglia note that matchy-matchyfurnishings and finishes are often hallmarks of
a new space.
If possible, mix up your new furniture witholder pieces and shop from a variety of brands,
not just one retailer.
The sofa and armchair can indeed contrast, saysMorris.
(02:40):
This approach echoes a time whennewly-manufactured goods were not so prevalent,
and unique, mismatched, and homemade goodsdecorated well-loved rooms.
Layer on old-world wall finishes.
Morris has spent the last year building a newhouse, but the brand-new structure looks
anything but sterile thanks to the texturedappearance of her walls.
(03:04):
Old homes develop beautiful, rich patinas ofall sorts over time, says Morris.
A way to attain a similar feeling is throughthe application of layered lime paint and
Tadelakt, a plaster topcoat.
The origins of these concoctions date backcenturies, so they inherently offer an
(03:25):
old-world, texture-rich look when applied towalls and ceilings.
Tack up some trim.
Another tactic to enliven drywall is to addmolding and trim.
Foglia added picture frame molding in severalrooms of her home and says it is a project you
can do yourself if you have basicdo-it-yourself skills, a miter saw, and ideally
(03:50):
a nail gun.
Any wainscoting, shiplap, or molding gives aroom dimension and instantly looks older, says
Foglia.
Mind your metals.
Pay attention to the finishes on hardware, doorknobs, and light fixtures, say designers Erin
Wheeler and Amy Burgess.
I really love brass, especially antique brass,which makes a room feel a little more lived-in,
(04:15):
like it has a story, says Wheeler.
She notes that while it is a small detail, thepatina and warmth of the metal can change the
look of the whole room.
And do not worry about matching all yourmetals: A variety of finishes will make a room
look collected over time.
Swap out your bathroom sink.
(04:36):
If you want to add more character to yourbathroom without ripping everything out and
starting from scratch, Foglia says look to thesink.
In her own home, she used a reclaimed hammambowl as a sink.
A vintage vessel sink is usually affordable andinstantly gives space more character than a
traditional one, she says.
(04:57):
Another option?
Place a sink on top of a vintage dresser orcabinet instead of an off-the-shelf vanity—all
you need to do is drill a few holes forplumbing.
Utilize table lamps.
Your home may be blessed with state-of-the-artlighting, but there is nothing like accent
lamps to create a cozy atmosphere.
(05:18):
And, the design pros we spoke to say the morethe merrier.
Foglia notes that lamps are especiallyimpactful in the kitchen, where they add
unexpected living room styling.
Install a truly personal gallery wall.
Nothing says collected over time like a gallerywall.
(05:41):
Wheeler says that it does not even matter ifyou actually bought your artwork online instead
of in a number of antique stores over theyears.
A gallery wall can quickly evoke the feeling ofa well-loved home, especially if you weave in
personal mementos and photographs.
Mixed into Wheeler's own wall assemblage are ahandkerchief that her business partner Burgess
(06:05):
brought back from a trip and a photo of hergrandfather from the 1940s.
Finally, get some plants.
Bringing in actual living things, also known ashouseplants, is a great way to make your house
feel more homey.
To supply even more charm, mix and matchplanter and pot styles and choose a variety of
(06:27):
different leaf types and plant sizes.
Morris is a big proponent of this design move,and she has plants in every corner of her
home–even the shower.
While interior design trends seem to cyclefaster than ever these days, bathroom design
trends tend to last a bit longer.
After all, renovating a bathroom is a majorcommitment.
(06:51):
Still, if this space in your home feels a bitstale, it might be time for an update.
Here are seven reasons why your bathroom mightlook dated—along with some ideas to make it
more current.
Nothing dates a bathroom more than anold-school medicine cabinet taking up space
beside your vanity mirror, says designer RobinBaab Olascoaga.
(07:13):
I am not knocking the functionality of amedicine cabinet, but there are so many sleek
and modernized versions integrated into vanitymirrors that offer both functionality and
style.
Ditch the visible side mirror in favor of avanity medicine cabinet or conceal the door
with your wall material to create a hiddenlook.
(07:36):
While a medicine cabinet offers some storage,it is not the most efficient solution for
anything beyond small bottles.
Consider installing a larger vanity withdrawers and shelves instead.
Stay away from solid square tiles at all costs,says Chelsea Marks, co-owner of Paynes Gray.
Even if you find a tile with some texture thatyou think might work—do not do it.
(08:00):
She recommends opting for staggered orpatterned tiles instead.
If you want something versatile and timeless,yet simple, a herringbone pattern in marble or
ceramic tile is a fantastic choice.
Whether it was at your friend’s new house or atrendy restaurant, for years you could not walk
into a bathroom without seeing subway tile.
(08:21):
The look became so oversaturated that it is nowstarting to feel dated.
Subway tile is out, Marks says.
Sorry, but I have to say it.
It can still feel current if done right, but itwill look extremely dated in five years—I
promise.
With so many different shapes and styles oftile available today, there are plenty of ways
(08:42):
to get creative without opting for subway tile.
Tile borders and accent strips were a hot looka few years ago, but now they can make your
bathroom look dated.
Continuous tiling without interruption orstatement walls with large tiles or unique
patterns are more modern, says interiordesigner Amy Switzer.
(09:03):
However, that does not mean your bathroom hasto be monochromatic.
If your bathroom is a sea of beige, from tilesto paint, it is time to introduce some
contrast.
A pop of color, a bold vanity, or even astatement mirror can add much-needed life.
Fuzzy bath mats might feel nice on your feet,but they are incredibly dated and borderline
(09:29):
unhygienic.
I should not have to say this, but do not putcarpet in a bathroom, Marks says.
Even a shaggy bath mat is a no.
Not only does it look like 1978, but the ideaof a shaggy rug soaking up water day after day
is disgusting.
If you like a soft feeling underfoot, opt for awashable memory foam bathmat instead.
(09:53):
It will look sleeker and still provide thatcomfy feel.
Dark wood cabinetry was popular for about adecade, but Switzer notes that it can make a
bathroom feel heavy and outdated.
Lighter tones, floating vanities, or sleekmatte finishes are more in line with modern
(10:13):
design trends, she explains.
If you like dark colors in a bathroom, go withbold, dark tile or deep-hued wallpaper, but
keep the cabinetry light.
Swapping out light fixtures is one of theeasiest ways to update a bathroom.
Heavy, traditional fixtures with intricatedetailing can date a bathroom quickly, says
(10:34):
Switzer.
She advises re-evaluating your bathroomlighting scheme and replacing outdated fixtures
with minimalist, sleek, or matte black designsto bring a fresh look.
Those rows of round bulbs scream the 1990s, shesays.
Switching to modern sconces or backlit mirrorscan instantly update the space.
(10:56):
Our final topic today is something that canmake a huge difference in your kitchen,
especially if you are battling with limitedcounter space.
We are talking about the $38 ExpandableCountertop Organizer from West Elm.
This clever little gadget is selling fast, andfor good reason!
(11:17):
If you are like me and have struggled withminimal counter space, this product is a
game-changer.
I remember my old apartment’s kitchen had acountertop size of approximately one square
foot.
For years, I never bought any appliances beyondmy toaster and my coffee maker because they
simply would not fit.
(11:38):
I even had to buy a shelving unit from IKEAjust to store my basic items.
That is why I wish I had come across West Elm’sExpandable Countertop Organizer sooner.
This nifty find is perfect for anyone lookingto create more storage and make their kitchen
more functional.
(11:58):
Even if you have a bigger kitchen, like I donow, creating more storage space is always a
good idea.
So, what exactly is the Expandable CountertopOrganizer?
Unlike most risers that are fixed in size, thisone can expand and contract to fit any space.
Fully contracted, it is a little under 11inches, and fully extended, it is just under 18
(12:24):
inches.
Despite its sleek, low-profile frame that willblend right into your kitchen, the organizer is
made of sturdy steel that supports up to 11pounds.
Height-wise, it is six inches tall, so you canstore plenty of items underneath it too.
You can take your cue from West Elm andpurchase a shallow basket to slide underneath
(12:46):
it.
There are tons of routes you can take with thisorganizer.
For example, the basket can hold coffee pods,while the organizer keeps your coffee maker
elevated.
It can hold your water bottle collection orextra dishes.
The possibilities are endless!
Do not make the mistake of giving up on yourminimal counter space too quickly; this
(13:11):
organizer will double your surface area andmake your kitchen more functional for under 40
dollars.
Plus, it is versatile enough to use in otherplaces in your home.
It can go on a shelf, in your under-sinkcabinet, or even on your vanity.
The options are endless, but the stock is not,so snag it as soon as you can!
(13:34):
That wraps up today’s episode of Daily InteriorDesign Inspo.
I hope you found these tips and productrecommendations helpful for making your home
feel more lived-in and updating those datedspaces.
Join me again tomorrow for more designinspiration.
Until next time, happy decorating!
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