Using updated neutral colors in interior design is a fantastic way to create a timeless, versatile, and sophisticated aesthetic in your living space. Neutrals have long been a staple in interior design, but like any trend, they evolve with time. Updated neutral colors in interior design reflect contemporary tastes and preferences, and they bring a fresh, modern feel to your home. My favorite reimagined neutrals-of-the-moment are Benjamin Moore’s Pale Oak (OC 20) and Sherwin Williams’ Eider White (SW 7014) and Agreeable Gray (SW 7029). They are all subtle neutrals but bold enough to provide a beautiful contrast with white trim. I love to pair them with Sherwin Williams Iron Ore (SW 7069), Benjamin Moore Hale Navy (HC-154), and Benjamin Moore Blue Nova (825).

Incorporating updated neutral colors into your interior design doesn’t mean sacrificing style or individuality. Instead, it provides a flexible canvas that allows you to be creative while maintaining a sophisticated and timeless look. So, whether you prefer the serene elegance of soft grays or the warmth of earthy tones, updating your neutrals can breathe new life into your living space. What’s your favorite reimagined neutral?

Incorporating classic pieces into an eclectic interior design is a delightful way to merge the past and present, creating a living space that exudes character, personality, and charm. This approach allows you to tell your own design story while enjoying the enduring beauty and quality of classic elements.

Eclectic design allows you to showcase your unique personality and style. By pairing classic pieces with more contemporary or diverse elements, you can create a space that is a true reflection of your tastes and preferences.

Want to create visual Interest? The contrast between classic and eclectic elements can add visual interest and depth to your interior. This juxtaposition creates a dynamic, eye-catching atmosphere that keeps the space from feeling dull or one-dimensional. I think everyone is tired of sterile, all gray interiors that took center stage for a few years. Eclectic pairings will make your home stand out from the crowd and are certainly anything but mundane.

Think anything but horizontally installed shiplap. Wainscoting and beadboard wall treatments involve adding wooden panels or planks typically to the lower half of a wall. They add a classic, timeless look but also elevate the space creating visual interest on a budget. This option is a great DIY project for anyone with a little bit of experience using a mitre saw and nail gun. The design styles and patterns are limited only by your imagination.

Wallpaper has made a comeback and it’s not your grandmother’s wallpaper! It is available in an extensive range of patterns, textures, and designs. It can add depth and visual interest to a room, making it an ideal choice for accent walls. Additionally, removable and peel-and-stick wallpapers have become popular for their convenience. It is one of my favorite ways to create a feature all on a budget.

Textured wall panels, made from materials like wood, MDF, or gypsum, add depth and dimension to your walls. They come in various patterns and can be painted or left natural to create a focal point.

Adding a Murphy door to a house is a creative way to incorporate hidden storage or secret passages into your home. I recently added one to a storage area that was visible from the main living room. It was a unique way to camouflage the entry and still maintain functionality.

Next up on my design list is adding doors that are mounted with heavy duty drawer slides. I’m using this type of door to downplay the entrance to a master closet. Check back for photos and follow me on Facebook and Instagram to see Reels of these projects and more.

Lighting can make or break a room. Think about that. How do you feel walking into a room with more yellow light or bright white light? What about harsh fluorescent lighting versus dimmable LED? Lighting can have a significant impact on a living space in terms of both functionality and aesthetics. The type of lighting used can set the mood and atmosphere of a room. Soft, warm lighting can create a cozy and intimate ambiance, while bright, cool lighting can make a space feel more energetic and lively. Another favorite surprise design element is toe kick lighting on a sensor and under cabinet lighting. I love using toe kick lighting in bathrooms. It’s perfect for middle of the night visits without the harsh light or bumping into walls in the dark.

Contemporary styles with clean lines, sleek materials, and a minimalist aesthetic are in demand. Let’s take a break from the raised panel cabinetry and glazed finishes that are in most homes built sub 2015. Think updated skinny shaker, flat panel and hidden hinges with reimagined neutral color palettes. Add pops of color in a contrasting island, appliances or backsplash tile. Visual interest with bold and quirky hardware will make your space unique to your personality and design aesthetic.

The integration of smart technology in your home isn’t just about keeping up with trends, but it’s also a feature home buyers look for and expect!

There’s many ways to do it now with Wi-Fi-connected appliances, touch-less faucets, luxury shower experiences, programable lights, immersive sound systems and more – which can all controlled by voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

Some of my favorite smart home tech:

• Echo Show 10
• Amazon Smart Thermostat
• Echo Hub
• Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
• KOHLER Smart Interface Module & Valve system
• Delta Faucet Emmeline

From having your home automatically shut down when you go to bed or setting up for family game night, this is all possible thanks to smart home technology.

Looking for more on smart home technology? Check out my guide Selling a Home with Smart Home Devices

In a world where remote work and virtual meetings have become the norm, having a Zoom-worthy and Instagram-ready office is more important than ever. Your home office should not only be a functional workspace but also a visually pleasing backdrop for video calls and social media posts. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, here are some top tips and trends to transform your home office into a stylish and photogenic sanctuary that will make your colleagues jealous and your followers hit that “like” button. Let’s dive into the world of interior design for the ultimate virtual workspace.

Here are some of my favorites for organizing a workspace, while also making it more functional: