When it comes to designing a home that feels timeless, classic, and full of personality, the goal is to strike a balance between elegance and comfort—all while making it feel uniquely yours. Here are some of my favorite tips and ideas for creating a space that’s inviting, emotional, and anything but fussy.

Personal Touches Make It Yours

An evergreen living room starts with the things you love. Add personal touches that tell your story: a bowl of seashells collected from memorable trips, a stack of cherished design books, or a simple vase of flowers (grocery store blooms work just fine!). These elements give your home warmth and character that can’t be replicated.

Choose Warm, Timeless Colors

When it comes to wall colors, I love warm, neutral tones like Farrow & Ball’s Slipper Satin for the walls paired with Benjamin Moore’s Mascarpone for millwork. These hues create a soft, inviting backdrop that’s versatile and enduring. Speaking of millwork—add it wherever you can. Crown moldings, wainscoting, and trim details make all the difference in elevating a space. Architectural elements like these always enhance a room’s character.

Embrace Antiques and Collected Treasures

You know how much I love antiquing! That’s why I have an online shop filled with collected treasures to help you bring unique, storied pieces into your home. If you don't subscribe yet, please sign up. There is a new drop of treasures coming soon and they move quickly. Mixing in antiques or vintage finds adds depth and a sense of history to your space. I believe in a balance of “a lot of yesterday and a little bit of today”—or really, a thoughtful mix of both. It’s all in the editing: add something, take it away, move it around until it finds its perfect spot.

Lighting Sets the Mood

Natural light is essential, but don’t underestimate the warmth and coziness that lamps bring to a room. Plug them in wherever you can, and consider adding art lights or sconces. Rechargeable sconces are a game-changer for adding ambiance without hardwiring. Layered lighting creates a welcoming glow and sets the tone for a space that feels lived-in and loved.

Create a Focal Point

Every room needs a focal point. In my own home, I created one with a gallery wall of botanical prints. The added height and symmetry instantly made the space feel complete. Play with scale and placement until it feels just right—you’ll know when it’s perfect.

Thoughtful Decorative Touches

Decorative elements are where your personality can truly shine. A magnifier placed on a stack of books, a hurricane vase with a candle, or a beautifully crafted ceramic dish can all add a touch of charm. Don’t forget to fall in love with art! Whether you’re searching online, exploring art fairs, or mixing vintage and modern pieces, art has the power to tie a space together seamlessly.

Pillows and Textiles Bring It Home

Pillows of all shapes and sizes are an easy way to add softness, color, and texture. This is your opportunity to add that random color in that somehow just works-like my coral sofa fabric-play with patterns, fabrics, and layers—have fun and let your creativity take the lead. The key is balance and making sure every piece feels intentional. If you need fabric ideas and new pillows-let’s set up a Design Consult! It’s so fun!

Make It Personal

At the heart of a timeless home is balance: between old and new, polished and relaxed, elegant and functional. Most importantly, it’s about making it personal. Your home should reflect your story, your passions, and your life.

So, go ahead—add it, take it away, move it around, and let it find its spot. A timeless, classic home with personality is one that evolves with you, making it a place you’ll love for years to come.