Big on Bows
Photo by Erin Francois
“Bows were everywhere in fashion in 2023, so it’s fun seeing them show up in interiors in a big way this year,” says Erin Francois, a self-described “design-forward DIYer,” influencer, and founder of her popular online blog, Francois et Moi. “They help turn the everyday into something special. I’m a big fan of adding bows anywhere you’re looking for an extra bit of femininity or embellishment, such as picture hangers, window treatments, and wreaths.” –Katelyn Bloomquist
Expert Tips
- Use the “bunny ears” shoe-tying method you might have learned as a kid.
- Play with various ribbon textures and widths (depending on formality level or season).
- Choose a soft, velvet ribbon for a luxurious look and feel.
Nature Illuminated
The outdoors convey a sense of peace and calm, which people are naturally drawn to—especially in the form of lighting. “Incorporating natural elements and biophilic designs in the home brings the tranquility of the outdoors into the spaces we use every day,” says Tara Simons, director of business operations at Creative Lighting by Bellacor. This connection to nature is showing up this year through biophilic lighting designs resembling botanicals, like these stunning options Simons suggests. Shop at bellecor.com. –Danielle Devota
- Jalore Six-Light Pendant in Brown Macchiato, Eurofase Lighting, $5,990
- Hygea Gold Leaf Four-Light Flush Mount, Corbett Lighting, $1,749
- Key Largo One-Light Pendant in Soft Brass, Minka Lavery, $295-$500
Ask the Pros: What is Layered Lighting?
Photo by Spacecrafting
From ambient and task lighting to simple accent lighting, the effects of these “layers” are endless. “Things like reading lamps and under-cabinet fixtures with more focused light provide brighter task light—illuminating what you are doing [rather than] the room itself,” says Cassandra Jaworski, sales consultant at Southern Lights. “But having another level of general light that will softly bounce off the ceiling or walls will give you the ambient lighting to illuminate the rest of the space.” For artwork, photos, or other decor, she recommends using small spotlights or art lights that showcase prized items on the wall. But the true jewelry of the home is decorative lighting, she explains. “This is where you can express yourself and really make the space your own.” –Elizabeth Roubik
Trend Alert: Call Me Chrome
Photo courtesy of Brizo
Chrome and silver are reclaiming their space in the spotlight, particularly in faucet, plumbing, and hardware categories. Not only are these finishes revered for their timelessness, durability, and resistance to tarnishing and corrosion (making them perfect for high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens), but their reflective surfaces also brighten a room and evoke a clean, modern aesthetic with an on-trend twist. “The chrome finish is a chameleon—both vintage and contemporary but always relevant,” says Brizo’s Category Manager Chris Wilson. “It has an unmistakable allure that homeowners find both timeless and fresh.” –Katelyn Bloomquist
