Author: Austin Marshall

Austin Marshall is an interior design expert and holds a Master's degree in Architecture from the Rhode Island School of Design. With over 15 years of experience, he has led numerous high-profile design projects, transforming spaces into aesthetically pleasing and functional environments. Joining our website in 2020, he has consistently delivered articles that blend practical advice with creative design solutions. Beyond work, Austin is an avid traveler, drawing inspiration from different cultures for his design projects.
Dorm rooms come with a lot of rules. You can’t paint the walls. Furniture is non-negotiable. The overhead light? Cold, flat, and designed to make you feel like you’re in a dentist’s office. And yet, it’s where you sleep, study, scroll, and spend hours of your life. So, how do you make it feel like your space, the one that actually supports your mood and makes long study nights (and lazy mornings) a little more bearable? You start with the lighting. It’s one of the easiest things to change and one of the most effective ways to shift how your…
Picking the right floor plan is the most important decision you’ll make when building a barndominium. It determines how you live day-to-day, how your home feels, and how well it fits your land, budget, and future plans. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider before locking in your layout and how to make every square foot count. Bedrooms and Bathrooms: Start with Real Life Start with the basics. How many people will live in the home, now and in the future? Do you have frequent guests or plan to care for aging parents down the road? A good rule of…
Scandinavian living rooms are increasingly popular, featured on Instagram feeds, Pinterest boards, and even in popular home shows. But let’s be honest, many people feel like these spaces look too cold or plain. I understand that feeling. All the white walls and minimal furniture can seem more like a waiting room than a place you want to relax in. But here’s what I’ve learned after years of working in interior design: Scandinavian rooms can feel warm and cozy. You need the right approach to make that happen. In this post, I’ll show you simple ways to bring warmth into your…
I’ve always loved the calm, breezy feeling of the beach. The sound of waves, the salty air, and the soft colors of the sea create a serene atmosphere. That’s why I wanted to bring that same feeling into my home. Nautical decor is a great way to do just that. It’s all about using simple colors, natural textures, and fun ocean-themed pieces to create a space that feels fresh and relaxing. If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your home into a cozy coastal escape, this post is for you. I’ll walk you through easy nautical decor ideas that work in…
You don’t need a full renovation to make your home feel more complete. Sometimes, a space can be clean and organized but still look a little off. Maybe it’s missing warmth, or the layout feels slightly unfinished. These small gaps can make a big difference in how your home feels day to day. In Tyler, TX, people are paying more attention to their homes. With more time spent indoors, there’s a growing focus on comfort and style, but in ways that don’t break the bank. Simple updates like rearranging a shelf, swapping out a light fixture, or adding texture can…
Transitional kitchens have become a favorite for many homeowners, and it’s easy to see why. They blend the clean, sleek feel of modern style with the cozy beauty of traditional design, giving you the best of both worlds. In this blog, you’ll look at innovative design ideas that seamlessly blend smooth lines, natural textures, and timeless details. If you’re struggling to mix old and new or want a space that feels both stylish and personal, this guide will help. I know there’s no shortage of advice online. However, not all of it feels genuine or practical. You’ll find ideas that…
Setting up a fun playroom doesn’t have to be expensive. I know how fast toys and gear can add up, but I’ve found some great ways to keep things simple and cheap. In this post, I’ll share budget-friendly playroom ideas that are still full of fun. You don’t need fancy furniture or a big space. With a few smart adjustments, any room can become a playful spot that kids will love. I’ve included ideas for storage, crafts, play zones, and more. Most of them use things you may already have at home. I’ve tried to keep it all doable, even…
I’ve always loved how one dark wall can change the look of a whole bedroom. It brings depth, adds style, and makes the room feel more cozy. If you’ve been thinking about doing this, you’re in the right place. A dark accent wall doesn’t have to be hard. You just need the right paint, a bit of planning, and a few easy tips. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know. I’ll share how to pick the best wall, choose the right color, and avoid common mistakes. You don’t need fancy tools or a lot of…
I love finding smart ways to use extra space in the house. One of my favorite spots to makeover is the basement. It’s often quiet, roomy, and full of potential. Turning it into a playroom is a fun way to give kids their own special area. They can play, create, and let their imaginations grow, all in one place. You don’t need a big budget or fancy tools to do it. Just a little planning and a few clever ideas can make a big difference. In this blog, I’ll share fun basement playroom ideas that are easy to try at…
If you love the clean, coastal charm of Serena & Lily, you&re not alone. Their signature look, airy neutrals, rattan textures, soft linen, and light wood finishes, feels effortless, breezy, and upscale all at once. It&s the kind of style that makes every room feel like a high-end beach house. But let&s face it, those prices can be a bit of a splash of cold water. Gorgeous? Absolutely. Budget-friendly? Not so much. The good news is, you don& have to spend thousands to get the Serena & Lily look. I&ve gathered affordable dupes and lookalikes that capture the same vibe…