Author: Austin Marshall

You want your home to feel cozy yet fresh, and rustic interior design helps you strike that balance between warm character and modern ease. In this blog, I will share some creative ideas for combining old‑world materials like reclaimed wood or stone with sleek, clean modern pieces. You get ideas for furniture, textures, lighting, color, décor, and layout. Each one shows how you can bring rustic charm into a modern space, without making it look dated. By the end, you feel ready to add personality and warmth to your home in ways that feel both current and inviting. It’s not…

I’ve always had a soft spot for homes that feel lived-in. Not messy, just full of warmth, history, and charm. A place where scuffed floors tell stories and every corner feels like it belongs to someone. That’s what drew me to rustic farmhouse interior design. It’s simple, cozy, and full of heart. When I started redoing parts of my house, I wanted it to feel like Sunday mornings, quiet, familiar, and peaceful. If that’s the vibe you’re going for, you’re in the right place. This blog has everything you need: ideas, inspiration, and a closer look at what makes this…

When you consider adding a mirror to your bedroom, placing it opposite your bed might feel like a harmless idea. I often see this layout in photos, and your space may look bigger or brighter that way. Still, many traditional belief systems and practical experts suggest that this setup can interfere with sleep, energy flow, and emotional comfort. Across Feng Shui, Vastu, and other cultural frameworks, people warn against mirrors directly facing the bed because they can reflect energy, create restlessness, or stir anxiety. In this guide, I share what these traditions say, what science adds, and what you can…

I used to think all rugs around the same size felt alike until I tried placing a 6×9 rug under my dining table. That’s when I saw how much size and layout matter. A 6×9 rug isn’t huge, but it’s not small either. It’s a medium-size option that can look perfect in some spaces and awkward in others. You need to consider the size of the furniture, the shape of the room, and how much of the floor you want to show. In this blog, I’ll explain the dimensions of a 6×9 rug, where it fits best, and how it…

Modern homes are evolving rapidly, with an increasing number of people seeking spaces that feel open yet still function well for everyday family life. That’s why the semi-open floor plan has become so popular in recent years. This design offers the best mix; it feels spacious, like an open layout, but still provides separation for quiet, focused areas. You get space to connect, along with places to relax without distraction. It’s a smart balance that works for many homes today. In this blog, I will explain what makes a semi-open layout unique. I’ll explain why so many families prefer it,…

Growing up with siblings means sharing more than just toys or secrets; it often means sharing space as well. That’s exactly what my brother and I did in our childhood home, where we shared a Jack and Jill bedroom setup. At the time, we didn’t know how clever that layout truly was. As a designer, I often find clients seeking practical yet charming layouts that maximize every square foot. Jack and Jill bedrooms and bathrooms offer an excellent solution for families, especially with multiple children. If you’re redesigning a kids’ space, planning for shared rooms, or updating your home to…

Picking the right neutral paint color can be tricky. There are so many shades that look similar, but once they’re on the wall, they can feel totally different. Two popular choices from Benjamin Moore are Pale Oak and Edgecomb Gray. Both are soft, light neutrals that work well in many rooms, but they each have their look and feel. In this post, I’ll compare Pale Oak and Edgecomb Gray to help you see what sets them apart. I’ll talk about their undertones, how they react to light, and where they work best. If you’re painting a cozy bedroom, a bright…

Choosing a wall color isn’t easy, especially when you’re stuck between Colonnade Gray and Agreeable Gray. Both are top picks from Sherwin-Williams, and while they may look similar at first, their small differences can make a big impact on your room’s mood and light. If you’re unsure which way to go, you’re in the right place. This blog will break it down clearly: How do they look in different lighting Undertones that affect the vibe Where each color works best You’re here because you want the right shade, not just any gray. We get it—and we’re here to help. This…

There’s something romantic and grounding about a space that feels like a study from another era. I’ve always loved the creak of old floors, the texture of worn books, and the scent of aged paper. So, creating a dark academia home library felt more like building a retreat than decorating. This style isn’t just a trend; it’s a tribute to learning, nostalgia, and quiet reflection. Even with just a reading nook or small corner, you can bring this cozy, intellectual vibe to life. In this blog, I’ll share ideas that blend classic design with warmth and thoughtfulness, perfect for anyone…

Have you been looking at your kitchen cabinets and feeling they need a refresh? Many homeowners face this same situation. Anew Gray cabinets offer a simple solution that works with many kitchen styles. In this guide, I’ll walk you through: Why Anew Gray is a top choice for kitchens How to pair these cabinets with other elements Simple ways to update your kitchen with this color Tips for making the most of your cabinet update You don’t need to be a design expert. This guide breaks everything down into small, manageable steps that anyone can follow. Why Choose Anew Gray…