Author: Austin Marshall

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.

Ever walked into a room and felt the stress just melt away? That’s the magic coastal design brings to a home. It’s not about throwing seashells everywhere or painting everything navy blue. Modern coastal style is different. It’s about creating spaces that feel open, light, and naturally calming. Think soft textures, breezy colors, and organic materials that work together beautifully. This style doesn’t require living near the ocean. Anyone can capture that relaxed, beachy vibe right at home. These design ideas will show exactly how to bring coastal charm into any space without going overboard. What is Modern Coastal Interior…

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Looking to give a home’s exterior a fresh makeover? Stone might just be the answer. It’s tough, ageless, and adds that extra bit of character a house needs. But not all stone is created equal. From sleek modern looks to rustic charm, there’s a style for every taste. And with 2026 right around the corner, some exciting trends are shaping up. This blog breaks down the best types of exterior house stone making waves this year. It covers what’s hot, what works, and how to pick the right one. Ready to see what’s out there? Let’s get into it. Why…

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Choosing the right siding for a house can feel overwhelming. There are so many materials, styles, and price points to consider. Homeowners want something that looks great, lasts long, and fits their budget. But with new options hitting the market in 2026, the choices have only gotten more complex. Some materials promise energy savings. Others boast low maintenance. A few claim to be eco-friendly. So which one actually delivers the best value? The answer isn’t always straightforward. It depends on climate, budget, and personal priorities. This blog breaks down the top siding options and helps narrow down the best fit…

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Furniture names can be confusing, especially older ones that people no longer hear every day. Many of these terms sound similar, and that makes it hard to know what each piece actually does. A chiffarobe is one of those words that often leaves readers guessing. A chiffarobe is a mixed storage furniture piece that combines features from more than one type of furniture. It usually offers space to hang clothes along with drawers or shelves for folded items. This combination is what sets it apart from other storage options. In this guide, I shared what a chiffarobe furniture piece is,…

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A room can tell a story without saying a word. The dark academia aesthetic does just that. It speaks through quiet corners, soft shadows, and the stillness of a rainy afternoon. This style isn’t loud or bright. It feels like a worn book or a letter written by hand. People love it for its mood, not its trends. A space like this invites calm, thought, and slow moments. It’s not hard to set up, and it doesn’t need to be perfect. Just a few changes can shift the feel of a room. The ideas in this list will help bring…

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The color on the outside of a house does more than look nice. It shapes the first impression and sets the mood before anyone steps inside. The right shade can make a home feel warm, clean, modern, or calm, while the wrong one can make it look dated or out of place. That is why choosing exterior house colors deserves careful thought, not a last-minute decision. In this article, you will find clear ideas that work for many home styles and settings. I shared popular color choices, easy-to-match palettes, and helpful tips that make the decision less stressful. You will…

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Picking paint colors feels harder than it should be. Those tiny swatches at the store never look the same at home. The blue that seemed calm turns electric under the living room lights. That warm beige suddenly feels like baby food on the walls. And then there’s the paralysis of choice. Hundreds of whites alone. Most folks stand in the paint aisle, overwhelmed, second-guessing every decision. Choosing the right color is about understanding how light, space, and existing elements interact. This blog breaks down the practical steps to pick colors confidently, ones that’ll actually look good once the roller hits…

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Concrete is the backbone of your property’s exterior. From streetside curbs to patios and driveways, strong concrete surfaces are essential for safety, functionality, and appearance. When these surfaces crack, sink, or wear out, professional replacement becomes necessary. Midwest Hardscapes delivers trusted Curb Replacement, Driveway Replacement, and Concrete Patio Replacement services throughout St. Louis, using durable materials and proven techniques. Curb Replacement Services in St. Louis What Is Curb Replacement and Why It Matters Curb Replacement involves removing damaged or deteriorated curbs and installing new concrete curbing that improves drainage, traffic flow, and curb appeal. In St. Louis, weather extremes and…

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First impressions start way before entering the house, and often develop as a visitor walks toward the entrance. The exterior quietly communicates style, care, and quality within seconds. Of all outdoor elements, paving is surprisingly strong in shaping that experience. Driveways, walkways, patios and entry paths are considered to be purely functional, but paving is one of the first objects that people look at and interact with. When properly planned, it produces a feeling of purpose and refinement. Even the most beautiful of homes can be incomplete when it is neglected. Well-designed paving sets expectations, establishes flow, and tells a…

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Modern luxury interior design has come a long way from the flashy, over-the-top styles of the past. Today’s approach is different. It’s about creating spaces that feel both high-end and livable at the same time. Think clean lines instead of clutter. Quality materials that actually last. Rooms that work with your life, not against it. But what really makes a space feel modern and luxurious? It’s not just about spending more money or filling rooms with expensive things. There are specific elements that designers use to create that refined, contemporary look. This post breaks down the key features that define…

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