Welcome to the blog, I’m Sabine! Interior Designer, candle creator, mom of 2, and lover of calm, beautiful spaces. I help busy women create homes that feel intentional, functional, and full of joy - one room at a time. Grab your coffee, get inspired, and let’s make your home feel like you again.
Love a well-designed room? Start with a signature scent. Explore the Belfong Candle Collection inspired by legacy, created for the senses.
Need a color palette or design guide? Shop my eBooks + digital boards for instant inspiration.
Pantone’s 2026 Color of the Year Is White…Here’s Why Designers Are Divided
A professional interior designer’s perspective on Cloud Dancer, color psychology, and cultural fatigue.
When Pantone announced Cloud Dancer, a soft white, as the 2026 Color of the Year, the design world reacted instantly. Some people were confused. Others joked that it looked like a “landlord special.” And some even tied the choice to the cultural and political climate.
While all of that commentary is interesting, I want to offer a different perspective — not political, not reactionary — but from the lens of a professional interior designer who lives and breathes color.
Let me start here:
I understand what white does. I respect its place. I just don’t believe it should be crowned the lead character of 2026.
And that distinction matters.
What Pantone Says Cloud Dancer Represents
Image courtesy of Pantone®
Pantone describes Cloud Dancer as a color that reflects:
Lightness
Simplicity
Calm
A desire for quiet and clarity in an overstimulated world
From a color psychology standpoint, white is associated with cleanliness, openness, renewal, and mental clarity. In a season of visual and emotional overload, a collective craving for calm makes complete sense. From that perspective, Pantone’s choice is logical.
But in design, logic and inspiration are not always the same thing.
My Honest Reaction as an Interior Designer
With a trained eye that studies undertones, saturation, contrast, and harmony every single day, my response was simple: I felt underwhelmed.
Not offended.
Not angry.
Just… uninspired.
We’ve already lived through:
All-white kitchens
All-white sofas
Layered whites on whites on whites
Neutral minimalism dominating interiors for years
White has been the backdrop of nearly every major design trend of the last decade. So when I heard “Color of the Year” and then saw white, it felt less like a bold declaration and more like the absence of one.
This particular shade, Cloud Dancer, feels:
Sterile
Flat
Void
Almost like the removal of color rather than a celebration of it
That emotional pause is what made me reflect more deeply on what Color of the Year is really meant to represent.
The Role of White vs. the Role of a Lead Color in Interior Design
White is powerful but its power has always been in what it supports, not what it replaces.
White:
Gives the eye space to rest
Allows other colors to shine
Creates balance and contrast
Acts as a visual transition
Frames beauty rather than becoming the main subject
White is the pause between chapters in a book - necessary and peaceful, but not the chapter itself.
As a stand-alone “Color of the Year,” it feels like placing the spotlight on the background. And for a title that historically pushes creativity forward, this feels like a missed opportunity.
Why Color Matters So Much to Me
I don’t just see color as décor.
I see color as language.
Color is personal.
Color is cultural.
Color is emotional.
Color is memory.
My love for color was shaped by contrast - by movement between worlds.
On one hand, my heart lives in tropical, Bohemian design. I’m endlessly inspired by the Caribbean islands (my mother’s homeland) the richness of palm trees, the drama of banana leaves, the way greens layer into one another as sunlight filters through them. The Caribbean is never flat. It is saturated, alive, and layered with warmth and rhythm.
Georgette Marise Interiors vignette
On the other hand, I am a city girl at my core. I was born in Queens, New York and often spent time visiting my grandmother in her Manhattan home. The city sharpened my eye through Art Deco geometry, Art Nouveau curves, bold architectural ornamentation, metallic finishes, and contrast. New York taught me that color can be dramatic and commanding, even when restrained.
Between the tropics and the city, my design language was formed:
Lush yet intentional
Expressive yet structured
Bold yet balanced
Emotional yet refined
Nature remains my greatest teacher. The sky never shows up as one blue. The ocean never offers a single tone. Sunsets arrive layered, glowing, complex, and imperfect. I see nature’s palette as a gift, one we’re meant to experience with both our eyes and our bodies.
White isn’t where the story begins.
It’s where one chapter ends so another can start.
Interior Design Trends, Timelessness, and Color Fatigue
As an interior designer, I respect all styles - even the ones that don’t personally resonate with me. Minimalism has a place. Neutrals have their elegance. Restraint can be beautiful.
But Color of the Year is not about safety.
It’s about direction.
It’s meant to:
Spark creativity
Signal cultural movement
Influence interiors, fashion, branding, and art
Invite us into something new
Choosing white feels more reflective than forward-looking.
Right now, many homeowners are craving:
Warmth
Expression
Depth
Personality
Life
Not just quiet.
My Professional Take on Pantone’s 2026 Color of the Year
Cloud Dancer isn’t wrong.
It’s just not bold.
It isn’t layered.
It isn’t emotionally complex.
It isn’t pushing the visual conversation forward.
I respect what white does.
I respect its place in interior design.
I use white constantly in my work.
I just don’t believe it should be the lead character of 2026.
For me, white will always be the supporting act that elevates the true stars of a color palette - not the star itself.
Ready to Create a Color Palette That Feels Like You?
If this conversation has you rethinking the role color plays in your home, you don’t have to navigate that shift alone. If you’re ready to move beyond trend-driven choices and into a color palette that truly reflects you, I offer a personalized e-Design Paint Color Suggestion Service designed to remove the guesswork and replace it with clarity and confidence.
Together, we’ll create a color direction that feels intentional, layered, and aligned with how you actually live in your space.
To learn more and get your personalized Paint Color Palette CLICK HERE.
A Home Filled With Gratitude
Thanksgiving is one of my favorite moments of the year to reflect on what makes a home feel calm, grounded, and full of warmth. As an interior designer, I’ve learned that the foundation of a peaceful home doesn’t start with the furniture or the paint - it begins with gratitude.
When we approach our homes with appreciation, our energy shifts. We start noticing what we love, honoring the small comforts, and designing with intention instead of urgency. A grateful mindset transforms the way we see our space, and this mindset naturally leads to a calmer, more harmonious home.
This year, I’m deeply grateful for my family, my clients - especially those who celebrated with me at my Anniversary Soirée and the partners and collaborators who supported my work. Each person has played a meaningful part in my design journey, and I carry that gratitude into every project.
Why Gratitude Matters in Home Design
A calm home is created from the inside out. When gratitude is present:
You make clearer design decisions
You select items that bring joy instead of clutter
You let go of unnecessary things more easily
You create spaces that support rest, connection, and well-being
Gratitude becomes the guiding force, and your home becomes a reflection of that peace.
Black Friday Sale — 30% Off All Digital Products
To celebrate the season, I’m offering 30% off all digital products through Cyber Monday. This includes:
My home design e-books
My curated color palette boards
Black Friday SALE - Shop all digital products (ebooks + color palettes)
What Is a Color Palette Board?
A color palette board is a designer-curated collection of paint colors that work beautifully together across an entire home.
These palettes are thoughtfully selected by me to help you:
Create visual flow from room to room
Choose colors confidently
Reduce the overwhelm of selecting paint
Design a cohesive, peaceful home environment
Whether you’re updating one room or refreshing your entire home, these palettes bring order, harmony, and unity to your design plan.
Shop Curated Color Palettes - 30% off until Monday
Final Thoughts
As you enjoy today—whether you're hosting, traveling, or relaxing—I hope you take a moment to look around your home with grateful eyes. Notice the small things that already make your space feel comforting and safe.
Remember: a calm home begins with gratitude
From my family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving.
Thank you for being part of the Georgette Marise Interiors community.
A Recipe for Calm: How to Host with Joy (Even When the World Feels Heavy)
Thanksgiving is near, and so is the whirlwind that comes with it—family gatherings, meal prep, and the endless to-do list. While this season is meant to bring connection and gratitude, it often brings stress and exhaustion instead.
As an interior designer, I’ve seen how deeply our surroundings affect how we feel—especially when hosting. When your home feels chaotic, it’s harder to relax. When it feels calm and intentional, everyone feels it.
This post will show you how to transform your home and your mindset using design psychology and practical hosting strategies—so you can rediscover the joy of hosting.
What If Hosting Didn’t Have to Feel Stressful?
Imagine walking into your dining room before guests arrive and feeling peace instead of panic.
Imagine your home feeling so cozy and balanced that it welcomes everyone - including you.
That’s what I call The Joy of Hosting - a design philosophy centered on creating calm, inviting spaces that nurture connection. And just like your favorite meal, it starts with the right ingredients.
Recipe for a Calm & Inviting Home
(Serves: You + your guests’ peace of mind)
Ingredients:
1 Warm Color Palette — Layer tones like Buttered Maple (a golden tan that glows like candlelight), Soft Clay Rose (a blush-beige that wraps a space in warmth), and Tranquil Moss (a muted sage green that restores balance). Add Warm White Linen or Oat Cream for lightness. These Pantone-inspired hues are trending for 2025 because they naturally evoke calm, comfort, and timeless beauty.
2–3 Layers of Lighting — Combine overhead, task, and accent lighting for softness and dimension. Warm light instantly lowers visual tension and invites relaxation.
A Pinch of Personal Touches — Family photos, fresh florals, or a curated stack of books create emotional connection and authenticity.
A Dash of Texture — Woven baskets, linen napkins, and knit throws bring comfort through touch—a proven psychological trigger for calm.
1 Playlist of Soft Background Music — Choose mellow jazz, acoustic covers, or light instrumentals to create an ambient mood.
A Generous Helping of Gratitude — The most important element of calm design is the energy you bring to the space.
Optional Garnish:
Add a candle with notes of bergamot, vanilla, or vetiver - scents that soothe and ground the mind.
Directions:
1. Set the Tone
Start with lighting. Adjust your overheads, use dimmers if you can, and let candlelight or table lamps soften the space. Warm light communicates welcome and safety to the brain - two essentials for calm hosting.
2. Create Comfort Zones
The best dining rooms are designed around connection, not perfection.
Group chairs closer together to encourage conversation and eye contact.
Create a small overflow zone - two accent chairs and a side table for dessert chats or coffee refills.
Use curved lines, circular rugs, or soft groupings to signal belonging. Design psychology shows that rounded arrangements make people feel more relaxed than rigid, linear layouts.
3. Declutter with Purpose
Edit your space like you’re editing a story. Keep what matters, and release what distracts. A clear surface allows your guests to breathe and you, too.
4. Infuse Your Personality
Your home should feel like you, not a showroom. Use meaningful details: your favorite art print, heirloom glassware, or even mismatched napkins that tell a story.
5. Serve with Intention
Hosting isn’t about impressing - it’s about connecting. Let your table be the place where laughter, stories, and warmth flow freely.
The Psychology Behind a Calm Home
A calm home isn’t just pretty - it’s powerful. Studies in environmental psychology show that visual balance, soft lighting, and tactile materials lower stress and promote comfort. The spaces we design can literally change how people feel.
When your home feels calm, your mind follows.
When you host from that place of peace, your guests remember how you made them feel—not just how your home looked.
Bring the Joy Back to Hosting
If the thought of hosting this Thanksgiving feels overwhelming, start small—with your space, your mindset, and your intention.
My eBook, The Joy of Hosting, walks you through practical design strategies and emotional resets to make hosting not only easier—but joyful. Inside, you’ll discover how to:
Design calm, comfortable spaces that encourage connection
Choose colors and textures that soothe, not stress
Create meaningful hosting moments that linger long after guests leave
Let this season be about peace, warmth, and the beautiful simplicity of gathering well.
The Joy of Hosting - Why It’s Worth It (Even When It’s Not Perfect)
If you’ve ever said, “I want to host more, but it feels like too much work,” you’re not alone.
As an interior designer and candle creator, I hear this all the time. People love the idea of hosting—inviting friends over, lighting candles, setting a beautiful table—but when it comes time to plan, the overwhelm creeps in.
Between cooking, cleaning, and worrying whether guests will feel comfortable, it can start to feel like more stress than joy.
But here’s the secret I’ve discovered: hosting doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be personal.
The Soirée That Started It All
Sabine with Premier Sponsors MAG Development, Inc.
photo: Dat Designs
photo: Dat Designs
Photo: Dat Designs
Photo: Dat Designs
Recently, I hosted the 10th Anniversary Soirée for Georgette Marise Interiors, and it reminded me of everything I love about bringing people together. The evening was filled with laughter, warmth, and connection. Guests mingled, shared stories, and enjoyed delicious bites surrounded by candlelight.
Was every detail flawless? Of course not. But when I looked around the room, what I saw were smiles. That moment reaffirmed something I deeply believe—hosting is not about performing; it’s about creating a space where people can relax and feel seen.
From That Experience Came: The Joy of Hosting
That soirée inspired me to write my newest eBook, The Joy of Hosting, which releases this Wednesday!
It’s a 20-page guide filled with practical, inspiring tips to help you host confidently—whether it’s a Friendsgiving, Thanksgiving dinner, or a casual Sunday supper.
Get your copy of my latest eBook The Joy of Hosting: Designing Dinner Parties that Delight
Inside, you’ll find:
✅ A step-by-step plan for how to host a dinner party without stress
✅ Easy ways to make guests feel instantly at home
✅ Table styling and ambiance tips for any occasion
✅ My personal checklist for hosting success
If you’ve been searching for holiday hosting tips or entertaining ideas for Thanksgiving, this eBook is for you. It’s designed to help you rediscover the joy of gathering, minus the overwhelm.
Visit the Soirée Exhibit
I’m thrilled to share that our 4 designed vignettes are still featured at the Philly Photo Spot Selfie Museum, open to the public until Thanksgiving!
It’s a visual celebration of the joy, connection, and design inspiration that come from opening your doors to others.
Mood Board concept of one of our exclusive vignettes.
from concept to reality designed by Georgette Marise Interiors
Introducing Maison Fraîche: A Candle Made for Hosts
As you prepare to welcome guests into your home this season, set the mood with my newest scent in The Belfong Candle Collection — Maison Fraîche.
Enjoy our newest luxury scent Maison Fraîche
It’s a luxurious blend of santal and coconut, inspired by that feeling of a fresh coastal breeze drifting through a beautifully styled room. The scent is calming, clean, and elegant - perfect for creating a warm atmosphere your guests will remember.
Shop Maison Fraîche Candle and Maison Fraîche Reed Diffuser
Explore The Belfong Candle Collection
Lighting a candle before guests arrive is one of my favorite home decor and hosting tips, it sets the tone for the evening instantly.
Hosting Is About Connection
When I think back to the soirée, what stands out isn’t the décor or the playlist however, it’s the laughter, the conversations, and the warmth in the room.
That’s what I want for you this season. Hosting isn’t about perfection…it’s about presence.
So whether you’re planning a festive Friendsgiving, a cozy winter dinner, or a just-because get-together, remember this:
Your guests won’t remember if everything matched.
They’ll remember how you made them feel.
Your Invitation
Download The Joy of Hosting this Wednesday.
Visit the Philly Photo Spot Selfie Museum exhibit before Thanksgiving.
Light a Maison Fraîche candle or enjoy the reed diffuser and rediscover the joy of bringing people together.
Because the best gatherings aren’t perfect - they’re joyful.
How My Client Found Home Again with Virtual Interior Design Services
When people think of interior design, they often picture colors, fabrics, and furniture. And yes, as an interior designer I’m trained to notice styles, scale, balance, layouts, lighting, ceilings, color theory, textiles, art, furniture and architecture. But for me, design is never just about achieving a look. It’s about telling a story - your story - through your home.
Design Clarity
Recently, a client booked a Design Clarity Call after finding me on social media. She had just moved into her late mother’s New York City apartment, where her mom had lived for over 40 years. On our call, I saw the fatigue in her face. She was overwhelmed, surrounded by furniture that didn’t reflect her, weighed down by memories she loved but didn’t quite know how to live with.
She confessed that she longed for her home to feel like stepping into a French village - narrow cobblestone streets, stone houses with lavender fields in bloom, textures of stucco walls and weathered wood. She wanted her space to feel feminine, romantic, relaxing, and inspiring.
But instead, she had mismatched advice from stylists, regret over freshly painted walls that didn’t connect, and no cohesive plan. She didn’t need more random purchases. She needed clarity.
The Blueprint
That’s when I introduced her to what I call the Blueprint. It’s not a cookie-cutter package. The Blueprint is a carefully curated combination of my À La Carte services and E-Design services, tailored specifically to a client’s needs. No more random purchases or endless scrolling for inspiration. Instead, she now had:
A multifunctional furniture layout designed around her lifestyle.
A curated color palette inspired by her vision.
A complete furniture and accessory plan that tied everything together.
Styling and sourcing guides that made execution feel doable, not overwhelming.
That’s when her face lit up. For the first time, she could see a roadmap: a furniture layout based on her lifestyle, a color palette that captured her vision, a design that wove in cherished memories of her mom without overwhelming her.
Romantic French Village inspired Living Room in a New York City Apartment
boho, parisian Dining area for a small new york city apartment dining area
When we walked through her completed design, she was more excited than I’d ever seen her. There was hope, direction, and peace. Her home was no longer chaos - it was her story brought to life. During the design process she donated and sold most of her mom’s larger pieces, but incorporated meaningful keepsakes like her mother’s cookbook. We layered in curvilinear lines, a soft palette of mauves and blush tones, distressed wood, artwork from Black artists, and linen drapes that let in natural light. Her space now reflected her story, while still honoring her mom’s memory.
For the first time, her apartment felt like home.
This is what design is really about. Not chasing trends. Not just making a home beautiful. But creating spaces that reflect who you are, where you’ve been, and where you’re going.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed with decorating or unsure of how to pull it all together, know this: your home can tell your story too. Start with a 20-minute Design Clarity Call and let’s create your personal Blueprint for a functional and beautiful home design.
Get Design Clarity on your space
How Your Home Can Shape Who You Are
There’s something magical about a well-designed space. It’s not just about the aesthetics - the bold wallpaper, the perfectly chosen accent chair, or the ideal shade of paint on the walls. It’s about the feeling that washes over you when you step into a room. It’s about how the design of a space mirrors who you are and sparks inspiration, creativity, and joy.
I recently had the privilege of sitting down with Philadelphia-based artist, Emily Ennulat, and hearing the story behind her latest wallpaper line. Emily shared how each design was intentionally named after women in her family that came before her. Women that had dreams as aspirations but didn’t have the opportunity to see those dreams come alive. Her creations aren’t just decoration; it’s part of the environment that shapes the way we feel, think, and live.
my visit to Emily Ennulat’s Chestnut Hill boutique
As I listened to Emily speak, I couldn’t help but think about a podcast I’d heard with author, artist, and poet Jackie Hill Perry. Jackie shared how she intentionally designs her home for hospitality - not just to create a welcoming environment for guests, but also to ensure it’s functional and nurturing for her family. Her home isn’t just beautiful; it’s a space designed to support the lives of those who live there, to foster connection, peace, and purpose. This resonated deeply with me because, at the heart of what I do as an interior designer, I believe that home design is so much more than just beauty. It’s a tool for living. It’s a way to create an environment where you can thrive.
Your Home as a Reflection of You
When you walk into your home, what does it say to you? Does it support the way you want to live? Does it make you feel energized, calm, or inspired? Or does it leave you feeling overwhelmed and disconnected? Your home is more than just four walls—it’s a reflection of your life, your values, and your dreams. And when it’s designed with intention, it has the power to elevate your experience and nurture the person you’re becoming.
Every time I work with a new client, I take the time to really understand their story. I want to know what they value, how they move through their space, and most importantly, how they want to feel in that space. I don’t believe in cookie-cutter designs. Every home should feel as unique as the person or family living there. Design should make you feel seen, understood, and inspired. It should lift you up and support you, creating an environment where you can thrive in all aspects of your life.
The Solution: Designing with Purpose
Designing with purpose is what sets my approach apart. It’s not just about selecting pretty things. It’s about weaving together a vision for your space that aligns with who you are and how you want to feel. Whether you’re seeking calm, inspiration, energy, or balance, I work with you to create a space that nourishes your soul and helps you live the life you aspire to.
If you’re ready to transform your space into a place that inspires you every day, I’d love to help.
My Design Clarity Call is the first step toward understanding your needs, your vision, and how we can bring your dream space to life.
If you're seeking inspiration and a chance to connect with like-minded individuals, I would love for you to join me for my 10 Year Anniversary Soirée on September 13th. This invitation-only event will be an evening of celebration, reflection, and design inspiration as we toast to the past, present, and future of Georgette Marise Interiors. If you’d like to be added to the guest list, please email us at info@georgettemarise.com.
Spaces are more than just backgrounds for our lives - they have the power to shape our experience. Let’s create a home that truly inspires you.
RSVP for the Soirée and Book Your Design Clarity Call Today!
Why Intention Matters More Than Trends in Interior Design
We are surrounded by noise when it comes to designing our homes.
Interior design for homeowners often feels like a tug-of-war. There are do’s and don’ts, trends that change with the seasons, and endless reels showing how to “design on a dime” or “live luxuriously.” One moment we’re told to be minimal; the next, to layer boldly. And if you’ve ever felt stuck in between all the advice and aesthetics, wondering what actually works—you’re not alone.
The truth is: great design isn’t about going it “right”. It’s about creating a home that reflects you.
It’s Not About Sides. It’s About You.
Trends aren’t wrong. Budgets aren’t wrong. Luxury isn’t wrong either.
But the key to a home you’ll love comes down to something deeper: intention.
As someone who practices intentional interior design, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is when your space is tailored to your needs, your lifestyle, and your energy.
The finishes, the colors, the layout—it’s not about impressing anyone. It’s about how it makes you feel.
Because when a space works for you, you feel it.
It flows. It supports. It inspires.
It feels like home.
Why Your Home Might Feel "Off"
Even beautifully furnished homes can feel incomplete.
That’s usually because they were built to follow trends—not to serve a purpose.
In personalized home design, every detail is chosen to create a specific experience.
So if you walk into a room and something feels off, it may not be the wrong color or furniture—it may be that the room wasn’t designed with intention.
Here’s a simple design truth:
When something “looks done,” it’s not just because it’s stylish. It’s because every piece in the space is working toward an intended feeling.
That’s what makes multifunctional spaces feel calm, seamless, and livable.
Interior Design: Georgette Marise Interiors
Completion is the Real Transformation
There’s something sacred about a space that’s finished.
Not “still figuring it out.” Not “good enough for now.”
Completed. Designed. Lived in. Loved.
When a room is completed with purpose, the shift is emotional.
You stop “making it work” and start feeling supported. At peace. Grounded.
That’s the real goal of interior design for women and busy homeowners—not just pretty, but personal.
So let me ask you:
Does your home feel complete or half-finished?
Do your rooms support your lifestyle?
Are you still adjusting... or are you thriving in your space?
Because completion is what creates the feeling most people crave—ease, peace, joy.
It’s the emotional exhale that happens when a room is designed with your unique story in mind.
Interior Design: Georgette Marise Interiors
Ask yourself:
Does my home feel complete—or always in progress?
Do I feel settled, or am I constantly rearranging, fixing, or “making it work”?
Have I created a space that feels like home, or just something that looks nice?
Take This With You
Here are a few gentle journal prompts to reflect on after reading:
What’s one space in my home that I love—and why?
What’s one space that drains me—and what’s missing?
What emotion do I want to feel more of in my home?
What needs to be completed in my space to support that feeling?
This kind of reflection can be just as important as choosing paint colors or floor plans. When you understand how you want to feel in your home, you can begin to design with clarity.
You Don’t Have to Figure It Out Alone
If this stirred something in you—if you’re nodding, or even just feeling that tug to finally bring your space to life with intention—I’d love to support you.
Let’s have a 20-minute Design Clarity Call.
No pressure. Just you and me, talking through what’s working, what’s not, and what’s possible.
Because your home isn’t just a backdrop—it’s part of your story.
Let’s design it with that in mind.
Can Your Home Reflect Both of You? Yes—Here’s How
Over the past few weeks, we’ve been diving into what it really means to create a home that feels like you—a place of comfort, beauty, and function.
But what if that home isn’t yours alone?
What if you’re sharing it with someone you love… and your styles don’t exactly line up?
It’s a question I hear all the time from couples:
“Can our home truly reflect both of us?”
The answer?
Absolutely. And believe it or not, decorating as a couple can be one of the most rewarding parts of creating a home together.
Sure, there might be a few (or a lot of!) debates along the way—whether it’s about the “right” coffee table or whose art goes on the wall—but with a little creativity, you can create a home that feels beautifully balanced.
Here’s how.
1. Mix, Don’t Match. One of the biggest mistakes I see couples make is thinking their styles have to “match.” But here’s the truth: contrast creates interest.
▻ She loves vintage charm, he’s into clean, modern lines?
Pair a plush velvet sofa with a sleek glass coffee table. Add a statement light fixture that bridges both styles.
▻ He’s passionate about his record collection, she has shelves of books?
Design a media wall that proudly displays both.
Design Tip: When decorating a shared home, look for common threads—a shared love of natural wood, a mutual appreciation for navy tones—and weave those elements throughout your space to keep things cohesive.
2. Create Personal Zones. Even in the most beautifully blended spaces, it’s healthy (and fun!) to carve out a little spot that’s uniquely yours.
▻ Got a sunny nook in the living room?
Add a comfy reading chair with her favorite throw and side table.
▻ Have an unused corner?
Create a mini music station with his record player and guitar.
These personal zones give each partner a sense of ownership and expression—an essential part of successful interior design for couples.
3. Color as a Unifier. Color can be a surprisingly emotional sticking point. My advice? Use it to your advantage.
Start with a neutral base you both like (think soft gray, creamy white, or warm taupe).
Then, allow each of you to bring in one or two accent colors.
Tie everything together with patterns—pillows, rugs, artwork—that include those shades.
couple’s Design Interior mood board
For example: Warm white walls + deep navy (his choice) + muted blush (hers) = a stylish, inviting space that feels balanced and intentional.
Couple’s Designed Home
4. Design for Your Lifestyle. Great design isn’t just about how a space looks—it’s about how it works.
Ask yourselves:
“How do we really live in this home?”
▻ Love entertaining? Choose flexible seating and an extendable dining table.
▻ Netflix nights your thing? Invest in the most comfortable sectional you can find.
▻ Work from home? Set up a dedicated workspace that keeps work and relaxation separate.
When your home supports your lifestyle, it becomes a true sanctuary for both of you.
5. Tell Your Story. This is where your home really comes to life. Don’t be afraid to make it personal:
Frame photos from trips you’ve taken together.
Display heirlooms from both families.
Hang that quirky art piece you picked up on your first vacation.
The goal? A home that tells the story of you—individually and together.
A Final Word
Yes, designing a shared home can bring challenges—but it also offers an incredible opportunity to create something brand new, something that beautifully reflects the life you’re building together.
If you’re navigating the ups and downs of blending styles (or are about to move in with your partner), remember:
It’s not about perfection. It’s about connection.
And I’m here to help you every step of the way.
Have you ever had to blend styles with a partner? What worked—and what didn’t? Leave a comment below—I’d love to hear your story!
And don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more design tips, behind-the-scenes stories, and exclusive workshop invites.
How to Design a Shared Home That Reflects You Both
Over the past few weeks, we’ve been discussing what it means to make a house feel like home—how space planning, intentional design, and thoughtful touches can turn even the most ordinary rooms into sanctuaries of comfort and calm.
But what happens when that home isn’t yours alone?
What if the space you’re trying to make your own is shared with a loved one, but you don’t always agree with them?
This is something I see all the time as a designer—couples trying to merge not just their furniture and decor, but their lives, preferences, and histories into one space. And while love may bring people under the same roof, it’s not always easy to make that roof feel like home for both people.
I still remember one client’s quiet words as she stood in the middle of the living room she now shared with her new husband:
“It just doesn’t feel like me anymore.”
And yet, he felt the same.
The truth is, design is emotional. Our spaces reflect more than style—they reflect identity, comfort, control, and compromise. And when couples move in together, whether into a brand-new home or one person’s existing space, those layers often get tested.
The Invisible Weight of an Unbalanced Space
When someone feels like a guest in their own home, even if they love the person they live with, it starts to chip away at the connection.
Maybe she moved into his place and, surrounded by dark leather and sports memorabilia, quietly started to feel like a guest in a home that didn’t reflect her at all.
Maybe he brought his favorite chair, and it’s now tucked away in a corner like an afterthought.
Maybe they’re both trying to build something new, but keep clashing over where to start.
It might seem like it’s “just a couch” or “just a lamp,” but those choices hold weight. They quietly ask, Is there room for me here? Am I seen? Do I belong?
Encouragingly, a survey by ApartmentAdvisor found that 56% of couples reported that living together has strengthened their commitment to their partner, highlighting the potential for shared spaces to enhance relationships when approached thoughtfully. apartmentadvisor.com
So, How Do You Create a Home That Feels Like Both of You?
The answer lies not in compromise alone, but in co-creation. Here are a few of my favorite ways to help couples design a space that celebrates who they are, together:
1. Design a “Neutral Zone” Room Together. Choose a room that feels like a blank slate—maybe a guest room, office, or unused corner. Make this the first space you design as a team. Co-creating it from scratch removes the baggage and lets you build something new.
2. Create a Shared Vision Board. Set aside an evening for what I call a “Pinterest + Pinot” date. No judgment, just curiosity. Pin images, save ideas, and talk through what draws you in. You’ll likely find some surprising overlaps—and a few fun compromises.
3. Color Is Emotional—Choose It Together. Color influences mood. Try blending your tastes: pair bold hues with soft neutrals, or choose a calm backdrop and add individual expression through artwork and accessories. Let the color story be a conversation, not a confrontation.
4. Clear the Emotional Clutter. Decluttering isn't just physical—it's symbolic. Make space for each other by letting go of items that no longer reflect your shared future. Keep a few meaningful pieces from your past, but be intentional about what moves forward with you.
A Final Thought: Your Home Should Be a Reflection, Not a Battle
When both people feel emotionally safe and physically represented in the space, the home becomes a place of rest, creativity, and connection. And that’s the goal—not just a beautiful house, but a beautiful life lived together.
So, if you’re navigating the delicate dance of blending styles and creating shared space, know that there’s hope—and even beauty—in the process.
Have you ever experienced a design disagreement with your partner or had to blend two very different styles?
Drop a comment below—I read every one and would love to know how your journey is unfolding.
Space Planning: The Missing Piece in Your Home Design
You bought the furniture pieces.
You picked the paint.
You even tried that viral Pinterest layout.
But something still feels off.
Every time you walk into that room — your living room, your office, your bedroom — it feels more like a source of frustration than peace.
You sigh. You move the chair. You push the sofa. Again.
And yet… it’s still not working.
And underneath all of that?
A quiet frustration that sounds something like this:
“This room is just difficult.”
“There’s only one way to place the furniture because of the shape… the windows… the layout.”
“Maybe this space just isn’t meant to work how I want it to.”
But the truth is, there’s always more than one way to make a room feel functional and beautiful — it just takes the right approach and a fresh perspective. That’s where space planning comes in.
So many of the women I design for come to me feeling defeated by their own spaces.
They’ve spent money on beautiful furniture... but the room still feels disconnected.
They’ve rearranged everything more times than they can count... but nothing flows.
They’re trying to use one room for three different purposes... and it’s just not working.
And underneath all of that?
A deeper feeling most people don’t say out loud:
“Why can’t I figure this out?”
Space Planning is just one skill that designers use every single time we begin a project.
So... What Exactly Is Space Planning?
It’s the thoughtful art of arranging your furniture and elements in a way that supports your lifestyle, flows with your routines, and creates emotional ease in your home.
It’s not about symmetry or filling up corners.
It’s about purposeful placement — so your space actually works for you.
Now, let’s talk about what many homeowners try (and maybe you’ve done it too — no shame here!):
You cut out paper shapes to “map out” your furniture on the floor.
You trace your pieces on the rug with painter’s tape.
You hop onto free online layout tools and drag furniture icons around.
It feels productive — and it’s a great first step — but without a true understanding of scale and proportion, those methods often fall short.
That’s the problem:
You might be placing things based on measurements…
but not based on how they’ll feel, flow, and function in real life.
Designers are trained to look beyond the obvious and consider how pieces interact in a space — not just how they fit.
Without that eye for proportion, even a “technically correct” layout can still feel… wrong.
This Is Why I Created the Virtual Design Group Workshop
I know the emotional toll of living in a space that just doesn’t fit.
And I also know that once you learn the principles of space planning, things start to shift.
You gain confidence. You stop second-guessing. You feel empowered to make your home work for you — not the other way around.
That’s why I created the Virtual Design Group Workshop — a 3-session design experience that walks you through transforming one room in your home with intention and clarity.
And to jumpstart your transformation, every workshop participant will receive my free eGuide: Mastering Space Planning Like an Interior Designer
Free space planning eguide when you register for design workshop
This powerful guide gives you the insider insight you need to start seeing your room differently — not just where things go, but why they go there.
If You’re Ready to Stop the Guessing Game…
…and finally feel at peace in your space…
…and design a room that actually supports your life…
…and stop wasting time (and money) on things that just don’t work...
Then this workshop was created for you.
We begin Wednesday, April 16th at 1:00 PM ET — and trust me, you don’t want to miss it.
[Click here to claim your seat + free eGuide]
Let’s plan your space — and your peace — together.