Interior Designers Share the Items in Their Homes That They’d Buy Time and Time Again
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Just like anyone else, interior designers have their personal picks of items that make their lives a little less stressful, save them time or money (or both!), or simply bring a smile to their faces every time they walk by it. Ahead, discover the products top designers say they would purchase over and over again along with some tips for making them work in your own home.
Design Within Reach Rice Paper Shade
Courtesy of Design Within Reach
“Four years ago, I chose this chic pendant as the light in my bedroom and I’ve admired it every day since. It fills the room with a beautiful ambient glow and I love that even though the bamboo paper shade is large-scale, it adds buoyancy to a space. The simplicity of the design allows it to work in different settings, both modern and traditional. Plus, it comes in several shapes and sizes. And the price can’t be beat at less than $100.”
— Kimberly Bevan, founder, Bevan Interiors
Tip: Unlike some glass fixtures that show a lot of dust and patina, a paper shade can stay pristine looking with little maintenance. “Every once in a while, give a paper shade a light feather dusting,” advises Bevan.
BlueStar Range
Courtesy of BlueStar
“I purchased this range when we were renovating our 1952 home, which we had just purchased from the original owner. The house needed extensive work, and we were trying to stretch our budget as far as possible. The range boasts professional-grade features without unnecessary bells and whistles, making it both high-performance and budget-friendly. I love that the open burners allow me to cook evenly at very high temperatures, the cast iron cooktop is easy to keep clean, and I can fit two full-size sheet pans in the 36-inch oven, which is extremely useful around the holidays. The only thing I might do differently a second time around is take advantage of the fun custom color options!”
— Emily Vaughan, owner, Emily Vaughan Interiors
Tip: If you’re considering an accent color for your appliances, the easiest way to make them feel cohesive is to stay tonal. “For instance, if you have white cabinets and light-colored stone counters, try a soft French blue or muted sage green appliance to avoid too great a contrast. If you have wood-toned or colored cabinets, you could handle a more saturated appliance shade,” says Vaughan.
Maison Distressed Black Oak 4-Door Buffet Sideboard
Courtesy of Zin Home
“I have a very large bedroom and needed something substantial to fill the space—none of the dressers I was looking at were big enough. This black oak sideboard acts as my dresser and has been the grounding element in my bedroom for years, throughout many furniture and design changes, proving it can flow with any style.”
— Shelagh Conway, owner, Triple Heart Design
Tip: “No one should be afraid of using black in a bedroom. The color actually provides a sense of calm if done well,” says Conway, who likes to mix black with other wood tones to provide a textural layering experience.
West Elm Luxe Chenille Throws
Courtesy of West Elm
“I never had enough throws for overnight guests so I initially bought these as a way to be a better host—but I use them every day! They feel soft and luxurious, but they’re not so delicate they can’t be thrown in the wash. Plus, they’re heavy enough to give off a warm feeling but light enough so your body isn’t overheated.”
— Byron Risdon, founder, Byron Risdon Interior Design Studio
Tip: Risdon looks for three things when buying throws: comfort, softness, and durability. “In terms of size, the throw should be big enough to cover your body but not so big you feel like you’re under a full blanket,” he says.
Miele Washer and Dryer
Courtesy of Miele
“This stackable washer and dryer are a bit smaller than your typical US brand, however, I’ve never not had enough space for my laundry. I love that it comes with cleaning cartridges that dispense just the right amount of detergent so you don’t have to worry whether you’re using too much or too little suds. The dryer is ventless so you can set it up wherever you’d like in your house yet it dries clothes in the same amount of time as a vented dryer.”
— Ariel Richardson, founder and lead designer, ASR Design Studio
Tip: Front-load washers are good for your clothes and the environment. “They use about 45% less energy and 50% less water than a top-load agitator washer and save on drying time by extracting more water during the spin time,” says Richardson.
The Disco Ball
Getty Images/Westend61
“A disco ball instantly transforms the feel in any room. I purchased my first one for a New Year’s party 20 years ago and it was, hands down, the most alluring accessory and the inspiration for hours of fun for every guest, young and old. Who can resist the playful whimsy of glimmering lights dancing on the walls and ceiling? I highly recommend getting one. The bigger is better!”
— Tamara Honey, principal and creative director, House of Honey
Tip: Honey loves to place disco balls near a window. “Let the light pour in and bring on the magic!” she says.
Beta Modular Sofa
Courtesy of Article
“I wanted a deep, comfortable sectional I could spend hours relaxing on and loved the modular aspect of this sofa, and the fact I could customize its size. I also fell for its dark olive color and cozy corduroy fabric, which helps hide stains and is easy to vacuum if you’ve got animals that shed.”
— Aimee Meisgeier, founder and lead designer, AM Interior Design
Tip: When buying a modular sofa, Meisgeier suggests figuring out your sofa needs first. “Do you want a deeper piece for more of a lounge feel, a piece that’s a bit more formal with two arms on each side versus a chaise?” she asks. “Once you determine your must-haves, measure the space by taping the dimensions out on the floor to see the scale and size more clearly before purchasing.”
CB2 Muse Smoked Coupe Glass
Courtesy of CB2
“I came across these chic coupe cocktail glasses in a store and immediately knew I had to take them home. What drew me in (beyond their gorgeous silhouette and modern) was their smokey color. They’re such a joy for the senses—I use them more than I thought I ever would. I pour sparkling water in them to trick me into thinking I’m having a fun cocktail. Proof that good design really can add value to your life in more ways than one!”
— Linette Dai, founder, Linette Dai Design
Tip: “I like to play up the elegance of a coupe glass by pairing it with some bite-sized snacks in a sculptural ceramic dish,” says Dai, who also uses her coupe glasses as modern alternatives to martini or champagne glasses.
CB2 Suspend Walnut & Marble Media Console
Courtesy of CB2
“I’ve always been drawn to furniture that features the beauty of nature and its elements. The doors of this cabinet have a gorgeous walnut veneer pattern, while the top surface is made of marble. It’s also highly practical with a surprising amount of storage space inside.”
— Linette Dai, founder, Linette Dai Design
Tip: “To reduce clutter, I suggest styling a console top with minimum essentials,” says Dai. “On mine, I have a sculptural ceramic lamp on one side, and a large organic-shaped tray with gold leaf lining as a catch-all on the other. As a minimalist, I tend to purchase beautiful items that serve a function and also double as decor.”
Victoria Morris Large Gourd Vase in Ivory
Courtesy of Victoria Morris
“My personal collection of ceramics grows every year and when I’m looking for a vessel with a unique handmade flair, I turn to this designer whose pieces reflect a sculptural elegance. I purchased this gourd-shaped vase to complement the organic design of my living room— it works as a standalone piece or filled with draping, seasonal blooms on a coffee or side table.”
— Azali Kassum, founder, Azali Kassum Design
Tip: “Be sure to hand-wash ceramics with gentle dish soap and a sponge after removing any flowers, then place the vessel in the sun to air-dry,” advises Kassum.
Joss & Main Tellis Marble Picture Frame
Courtesy of Joss & Main
“My favorite decor item for my home and design projects is this classic and timeless marble picture frame that comes in a variety of sizes and finishes, including black, white, cream, and marble. It perfectly fills extra space in a built-in or on a console table.”
— Gina Gutierrez, founder and lead designer, Gina Rachelle Design
Tip: “For styling, I recommend ‘the rule of three’—where you group items in a trio to create rhythm and balance within a space,” says Gutierrez. “This principle is often used in photography and art and works best with odd numbers, which tend to be more memorable.”
Dana Bell Dancing on Yellow, 2001
Courtesy of Artsy
“My husband and I purchased this painting as an anniversary gift to each other. We fell for its bold colors and shapes plus how perfectly it fits on an otherwise awkward wall in my apartment. It makes me smile every time I look at it.”
— Sarah Rinehart Fleischer, founder, SRF Interiors
Tip: “Keep the measurements of an unusual-sized space in your phone notes or in a Google Doc so when you come across something you like online you can filter by size and check quickly if it’s a fit,” shares Fleischer.
Jo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin Home Scented Candle
Lorna Gross
“This lime basil and mandarin scented candle was given to me as a gift—and now I can’t stop buying it! The fragrance transcends seasons and is suitable for any room in the house—from the entryway to the kitchen to the bedroom to the bathroom. The scent immediately makes me feel calm in my home.”
— Lorna Gross, CEO and principal designer, LORNA GROSS Interior Design
Tip: If you like to display candles, Gross stresses the importance of keeping the lid on to prevent dust from collecting and to hide burn marks. “Be sure to light a kitchen candle after a meal so it’s not competing with your food’s aromas,” she adds.
Kartell Pilastro Stool
Nadia Watts
“This stool has such unique lines and an interesting shape—it looks beautiful tucked under a table or as a perch in an entry or a hallway. Plus, it’s fun and functional. I use it as a side table for drinks, a footstool for lounging, and even for extra seating.”
— Nadia Watts, founder, Nadia Watts Interior Design
Tip: Watts likes to fill rooms with multi-use pieces. “I prefer furniture that looks like art but also serves a purpose,” she says.
Serena & Lily Milo Alpaca Throw
Courtesy of Serena & Lily
“This alpaca throw is my favorite item in my home. I bought it a few years ago in a small boutique while on vacation and love that it’s soft, luxurious, and cozy all in one. I use it all year long—the cream color works well in any room.”
— Brianna Untener, founder, Brianna Scott Interiors
Tip: “I prefer to display a throw on a chair as opposed to a sofa,” says Untener. “It’s easier to see and visually pulls a room together.”
Annie Selke Paint Chip Multi Hand Micro-Hooked Wool Rug
Courtesy of Annie Selkie
“Rugs are the foundation to any room and this colorful, low-pile wool rug stands up to high traffic areas, kids, and pets, and it looks great in an entryway, under a kitchen table, in the laundry room, and as a hallway runner. I’d purchase it again and again.”
— Shauna Glenn, owner and lead designer, Shauna Glenn Design
Tip: Glenn stresses the importance of keeping a wool rug clean. “Give it a regular vacuum and if it’s small enough, take it outside for a good shake,” she says.
Gabby Laura Swivel Chair
Courtesy of Gabby
“I love this chair because it’s timeless, elegant, well-crafted, and compact enough to offer endless style possibilities yet comfortable enough to be a favorite chair to sit in. Its versatility allows it to be used in a variety of spaces—from the living room, bedroom, and library—and depending on the fabric choice, it can present as a casual accent or something more formal. Plus, it swivels—I love furniture that moves!”
— Joni Burden, founder and creative director, J. Banks Design
Tip: “I love a swivel chair in a family room—you can turn it towards the television to watch your favorite movie or in the other direction of a 1000-piece puzzle at a small table. You can even turn it towards a window to enjoy reading by some natural light,” shares Burden.
Palmer Green Paint by Benjamin Moore
Courtesy of Isabel Ladd
“I’ve used this deep, rich green in my own home for years and whenever a design client tells me they like green, my brain immediately goes to this organic-looking shade. It’s got a touch of brown and is the perfect hue for a maximalist aesthetic because it acts like a neutral, while the olive undertones give weight to help ground a space.”
— Isabel Ladd, principal, Isabel Ladd Interiors
Tip: When selecting a green wall paint, choose a tinted primer to give the green its best chance at depth. “Also consider the ambiance you’re going for,” says Ladd. “Feeling moody? Opt for a forest green. Preppy? Choose a Kelly or emerald green. Earthy? Pick Palmer Green!”
Ruggable Rugs
Courtesy of Ruggable
“Accidents happen in households with dogs and kids. I swear by this company’s durable and washable rugs because they can be thrown in the washing machine. Made of polyester, they have a polyurethane coating to help repel liquids and stains and a nonslip surface that still feels super soft under my feet. I have these rugs in various of sizes and designs throughout my house—most were purchased five years ago yet look new to this day.”
— Ariel Richardson, founder and lead designer, ASR Design Studio
Tip: “With washable rugs, be sure to set your washing machine dial to delicate and wash in cold water. Set the dryer to low heat,” advises Richardson.
Artistic Frame Studio Side Chair
Courtesy of Abby Leigh
“I purchased these dining chairs when I moved into my house five years ago because I loved the contrast between the cane and the wood. I also loved the fact that they had a modern flair but were still traditional at heart. Some of my favorite memories have taken place sitting in these chairs, it’s where my family gathers for meals and where my friends sit when they come to visit.”
— Abby Gruman, founder and lead designer, Abby Leigh Designs
Tip: “Cane is certainly having a moment and I love seeing it pop up in unusual places, such as the face of a night or entry table,” says Gruman.
Phillip Jeffries 9190: Beat Wallpaper
Courtesy of Phillip Jeffries
“The entire wall in my family room is now a living mural, thanks to this unique wallpaper, whose free-form, cloud-like brushstrokes unify the space with the windows in the room. My intention was to create an atmosphere that would encourage family members to engage in creative endeavors like crafts and interesting board games—and it genuinely has that effect. Plus, it constantly elevates the mood of our whole family.”
— Laetitia Laurent, principal, Laure Nell Interiors
Tip: Regular care of wallpaper will keep it vibrant looking and extend its life. “Dust it with a microfiber cloth or soft brush attachment on a vacuum,” suggests Laurent. “You can also wipe it down with a slightly damp cloth.”
The Rush House Original Rug
Courtesy of Rush House
“I bought this natural fiber seagrass rug a few years ago and love how much warmth and texture it adds to my living room and how soft it feels on my feet—more so than any jute or sisal rug. Its 1×1-foot squares can be added to or taken out, allowing you to customize the rug to any size. Stains? No problem, you can simply remove the square and replace it!”
— Alex Yeske, founder, Alex Yeske Interiors
Tip: For natural fiber rugs, Yeske recommends vacuuming on a lighter setting and blotting stains. “Never rub,” she says.
Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine
Courtesy of Williams Sonoma
“I love that this coffee maker combines functionality with quality. It has an integrated burr grinder which allows you to grind fresh coffee beans and the steam wand is perfect for frothing milk. It’s also user-friendly and delivers a consistent performance, making it a reliable choice for both busy mornings and leisurely weekends.”
— Marie Cloud, founder, Indigo Pruitt Design Studio
Tip: A coffee machine should ideally be displayed in a dedicated coffee station. “This could be a small cart or a specific corner of your kitchen where you keep all your coffee essentials,” says Cloud. “If counter space is limited, consider creating a vertical storage with wall-mounted shelves.”
Bancha Paint by Farrow & Ball
Courtesy of Farrow and Ball
“The first design decision I made in my apartment was to paint my entryway in this dark shade of green to help define and add warmth to a small space. I love that its yellow undertones play well with different colors. I paired it with a printed aubergine fabric and dark wood furniture and it immediately elevated the space.”
— Paige Blodgett Scher, founder, Paige Blodgett Interiors
Tip: Choosing a favorite color and taking it a few shades darker is an easy way to add depth and richness to a small area. “The walls then become the focus of the space and a more dramatic backdrop for art,” says Scher.
Le Labo Santal 26 Classic Candle
Courtesy of Le Labo
“Candles are an essential and delightful part of my day and a great way to set the mood and unwind. I love this one because it’s got a neutral, not overwhelming, scent along with some leather and smoky undertones. Plus, its packaging gives off an elevated look, like something you’d find in a sleek hotel bar lounge.”
— Cynthia Lananh, founder, Cynthia Lananh
Tip: “A design-savvy candle snuffer and wick trimmer help to create a little vignette when paired with a candle,” shares Lananh.
Zip Water HydroTap Celsius All-in-One Water Filter Faucet
Courtesy of Focal Point
“This beautiful water filtration system comes in seven luxurious finishes and offers instant still, sparkling, hot, and cold water. From using it for my morning coffee to filling up my kids’ water bottles for school and having sparkling water at my fingertips throughout the day, it’s truly my most beloved appliance.”
— Brittany Hakimfar, lead designer and founder, Far Studio
Tip: When it comes to choosing a faucet finish, Hakimfar defers to the classics. “I prefer a chrome or matte black for a more contemporary kitchen and if I’m doing something a bit more traditional, I like a living brass finish that will patina over time,” she says.
Scout Design Studio Promenade Sofa
Courtesy of Scout Design Studio
“There’s so much I can say about this sofa—it’s an approachable style that can be used in many spaces. I love that its sculptural arms give off a fun, retro feel while also introducing a level of sophistication. It’s super comfy for napping and conversation alike, and the fabric is forgiving.”
— Lina Galvão, co-founder, Curated Nest
Tip: Galvão likes adding pillows to a sofa because it’s an opportunity to create both comfort and style, “However, for a very modern and sculptural sofa, I sometimes forgo pillows in favor of letting the shape shine,” she says.
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