https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog daily 0.75 2026-04-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/59179693-54ee-4294-bf69-23713b05d167/Heading-2.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/dc445a5f-d852-4219-8111-52dc14afeaf6/Hi+I%E2%80%99m+Sandra-2.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e011c3d8-b7f7-497b-af98-7f181a024f9e/Untitled+%2860+x+15+cm%29-3.png https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/styling-a-timeless-home-katie-fischer monthly 0.5 2026-03-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - Styling a Beautiful, Timeless Home: Inside Interior Designer Katie Fischer’s Curated Home Décor World - Interior Styling Blog for Real Homes: Ideas, Advice & Inspiration Hi, I’m Sandra, this blog is about interior styling for real homes. If you love interiors and want your home to feel stylish, pulled together, yet still personal, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll be sharing styling advice to help you edit, layer, and finish your home with confidence, alongside articles on what’s happening in the interiors world — from design events to colour stories - so you get the full picture. I also take you on tours of beautifully styled homes from around the world, offering inspiration and styling ideas to steal for your own space. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. In today’s post, I’m introducing you to style icon and social media sensation Katie Fischer, sharing some of her key styling tips and taking you on a tour of her home, where she’s surrounded by her beautiful styling heroes from her own collection. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d0d8d377-b4b6-4d30-bf8e-6c1549d6ec02/Interior-spotlight-designer-Katie-Fischer.jpg BLOG - Styling a Beautiful, Timeless Home: Inside Interior Designer Katie Fischer’s Curated Home Décor World Photo credit: all photography Katie Fischer https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9fb8a032-d4a5-46e4-ba1f-d5fc8b8d667f/Interior-spotlight-wood-coffee-table.jpg BLOG - Styling a Beautiful, Timeless Home: Inside Interior Designer Katie Fischer’s Curated Home Décor World - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a471817f-bb0b-4c17-90f1-f85b04213c32/Interior-spotlight-Katie-Fischer-Styling-Flowers.jpg BLOG - Styling a Beautiful, Timeless Home: Inside Interior Designer Katie Fischer’s Curated Home Décor World - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/97d3b8f2-7d2c-4623-b866-4fd42a6d53f9/nterior-spotlight-designer-Katie-Fischer-lliving-room.jpg BLOG - Styling a Beautiful, Timeless Home: Inside Interior Designer Katie Fischer’s Curated Home Décor World - SPECTACULAR SEATING AREAS Combining atmospheric styling with spatial clarity, Katie creates rooms - like her living room pictured here - that feel relaxed yet elegant. Her interiors are beautifully layered and rich with texture, like the soft bouclé chair, the tactile wool rug, and the characterful wood coffee table in the image. And when it comes to colour, Katie keeps things calm and neutral. As she explains, “I like my interiors to feel timeless, effortless, and chic – and these are all the things you can easily achieve with neutral tones.” But she also advises that if you are opting for a neutral palette, you need to keep a few things in mind: “When designing without colour, remember that a room can easily feel boring or flat if it misses contrast or texture.” What I love about Katie’s home is how she’s intentionally created two seating areas within the same vista. The rugs are used to demarcate each zone - they bring definition and warmth to the space. Katie has chosen rugs that are large enough for the sofas to sit on, so they anchor the furniture and complement the original beech parquet flooring. She’s also added that all-important statement piece to each area in the shape of two stunning Murano glass chandeliers. Katie on following trends: “Always try to keep adding some pieces that you have a true connection to, and avoid trendy products as best as you can. Trends disappear within months or years, but something that you truly love stays with you for decades.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f68d5bb3-3889-4ee8-a575-02f478d0722c/nterior-spotlight-designer-Katie-Fischer-coffee-table.jpg BLOG - Styling a Beautiful, Timeless Home: Inside Interior Designer Katie Fischer’s Curated Home Décor World - STYLED COFFEE TABLE Katie’s styling skills are second to none, creating a warm, lived-in authentic vibe that is also beautifully considered. She’ll casually pop a dish on top of a stack of hardback books or style oversized branches or seasonal blooms in sculptural vases - details that make a room look personal but also finished. I asked Katie how she approaches styling a coffee table. “It’s the focal point of your living room. Whether you’re catching up on family updates or enjoying a film, everyone will end up using it,” she explains. “Having said that, it can’t look too pristine or so cluttered that there’s no space left for mail, documents or afternoon tea. Instead, you want to go for a beautiful yet practical aesthetic.” The coffee table in Katie’s living room is handcrafted from natural, aged elm and it's the imperfections, such as the dents, markings and visible knots, that bring character to the room. It is the perfect base for the pieces she styles on top, including her sculptural marble bowl and an antique vase brimming with a generous bunch of tulips. The rectangular shape and authentic charm make the table a luxurious addition that works in all types of interiors, from classic to contemporary. Katie on coffee table styling: “Styling a coffee table can be done in a hundred different ways. However, once you look at the number of coffee table styles on Pinterest or Instagram, you’ll start to notice a few similarities. Overall, you need to add flowers and candles that match your room’s aesthetic. Include some decorative objects like souvenirs or books that highlight your interests.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e86ada36-3986-432a-b4ef-370be7c5241d/nterior-spotlight-designer-Katie-Fischer-bathroom.jpg BLOG - Styling a Beautiful, Timeless Home: Inside Interior Designer Katie Fischer’s Curated Home Décor World - STYLISH RETREAT BATHROOM Photo credit The 1 hotel Miami South Beach photographed by Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5577e794-7d15-4b51-a6b3-34af7552f3e4/nterior-spotlight-designer-Katie-Fischer-dining-room.jpg BLOG - Styling a Beautiful, Timeless Home: Inside Interior Designer Katie Fischer’s Curated Home Décor World - DINING IN STYLE For the dining room, with its beautiful arched window, Katie wanted to create a warm and inviting space centred around natural materials. The chairs are from Kave Home, while a faux plant from Katie’s collection adds a sculptural, organic element that softens the room's architecture. A large neutral-toned rug anchors the dining area, which includes a set of contemporary curved dining chairs she bought from Kave Home, together with a large custom-made wood table. She’s kept the tabletop styled simply with an antique vase displaying daisies and two wrought iron candle holders that look perfect left in place either with or without table settings. A bespoke tall wooden dresser adds a classic touch, yet still pairs well with the rest of the furniture. Throughout her home, Katie’s colour palette leans into off-white, so she opts for light beige and grey tones, such as Skimming Stone by Farrow & Ball. And with the Pantone Colour of the Year 2026 being an off-white, I asked Katie how she feels about using it in interiors. “Off-white works so beautifully because it’s timeless,” explains Katie. “Trends come and go, but soft neutrals always feel elegant and effortless, no matter the season.” To read more ideas on styling and decorating with off-white, check out my blog post on the Pantone Colour of the Year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/050ae33a-46a2-446e-a8fc-0b05ed992b6d/nterior-spotlight-designer-Katie-Fischer-shelving.jpg BLOG - Styling a Beautiful, Timeless Home: Inside Interior Designer Katie Fischer’s Curated Home Décor World - CAREFULLY CURATED SHELVING This is where Katie’s home décor is showcased so clearly, styled alongside large-format white hardback books and earthy-toned candlesticks. Notice how she doesn't overcrowd the shelves, allowing each piece displayed to be a focal point. When styling surfaces, and especially shelves, negative (empty) space is just as important as the objects themselves, and it’s what makes each object feel intentional, not cluttered. So, ensure you allow plenty of space between objects to allow them to shine. To add interest to the stack of books, Katie topped them with a marble vessel, while on the single AD book she has placed one of her dishes - a simple styling detail that makes the display feel more lived-in. In between the books sits one of her unique travertine pieces, a true statement piece, and right at the bottom, two antique pots add depth and contrast to the shelving. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1be4db55-a03b-4c42-b604-f134cb8e2255/nterior-spotlight-designer-Katie-Fischer-home-office.jpg BLOG - Styling a Beautiful, Timeless Home: Inside Interior Designer Katie Fischer’s Curated Home Décor World - STUNNING HOME OFFICE This newly designed home office really has the wow factor and it starts with the stunning statement desk which Katie designed and built herself. She enjoys occasionally creating furniture pieces for her own home, especially when she has a very specific idea for a room. The desk's curved shape creates a sculptural focal point in the office while keeping the overall space simple and functional. Its warm amber tone was chosen to complement the original 1930s beech parquet of the house, whose natural colour already brings a lot of warmth to the room. The desk was stained in several layers and finished by hand with shellac, giving the surface depth and a richly polished look. Paired with a bouclé curved pouffe and soft off-white rug, Katie’s created a dream workspace - one that you’d never want to leave. Other key design features in the room include the beautiful panelled walls and soft floaty linen curtains. Notice how the black wrought iron poles are positioned as high as possible to give the space a real sense of height. For those all-important finishing touches, she’s placed earthy-toned vessels to add depth and contrast. In one of her aged pots, Katie’s styled a large display of blossom on a white plinth - a very European way of displaying sculptures, vases, lamps and home decor for years, and one that’s now making its way into more homes across the globe. A plinth instantly showcases an object, giving it height, presence and that gallery moment. You might also hear it referred to as a pedestal, base or stand. I love the look of a plinth, so I bought a grey concrete one in the Netherlands a few years back which now sits in my entryway proudly displaying a large plant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/487d8807-ce93-4880-9c17-212ae9b0a6ca/nterior-spotlight-designer-Katie-Fischer-bedroom.jpg BLOG - Styling a Beautiful, Timeless Home: Inside Interior Designer Katie Fischer’s Curated Home Décor World - CALM, SERENE BEDROOM The bedroom has that grounded, serene feel to it and is beautifully layered with texture - starting with the rustic wooden bench made from old elm wood, which instantly brings nature and character to the space. To add freshness, Katie introduces greenery in the form of a large tree-like plant in an antique terracotta pot. Other rustic touches, like the lamp from her collection and a woven basket, show the visible traces of time, which lend a warm, inviting atmosphere to the bedroom. For the bed, Katie has kept things effortlessly calm and relaxed with gorgeous soft white in a linen-cotton mix with a crinkled effect - a nice alternative to the popular washed crumpled linen. She has dressed the bed with an earthy-toned throw and cushion in tones which tie in nicely with the warm hues of the wood and terracotta. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5f7ea1cd-d6b9-4310-8c70-b4b11ed1334e/nterior-spotlight-designer-Katie-Fischer-vases.jpg BLOG - Styling a Beautiful, Timeless Home: Inside Interior Designer Katie Fischer’s Curated Home Décor World - STYLING WITH ANTIQUE VESSELS AND LAMPS Vases and vessels are a key home-décor styling piece both in Katie’s home and her collection. You’ll spot at least one in every room filled with some form of flowers or foliage - like the delicate grasses pictured here - large branches of blossom, or stems of carefully chosen blooms. Katie has a passion for collecting vases. “I collect them from all eras and continents. Marble vases from the 1920s or in the pre-Columbian style by Simone Bodmer-Turner,” says Katie. “I also inherited a heavy, gold glass vase with a silver rim, shaped like a pineapple, from my grandparents.” The Mijiu vessel pictured here in Katie’s living room is a clay vessel over 100 years old, distinguished by its unmistakable character. Features like its original patina and strong, reduced form are also part of its history and make it truly one of a kind. She has styled the vase with two sleek black iron candle holders on one side of the table, and a book topped with a white ceramic dish on the other. One of Katie’s true staple pieces - both in her store and as a styling hero in her home - is the clay pot antique lamp base, some of which are up to 120 years old. Each one has its own beautiful patina and is completely unique, with subtle tonal variations which show the individuality of every piece. The lamp pictured here is finished with a shade made from Belgian linen, and when lit, adds that soft, warm glow. Katie on styling vases: “Whether styled as a single statement piece or arranged in pairs, a vase brings a unique sense of atmosphere and depth to any space.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/29bb4c21-d1f5-4c1b-9295-267781efb6ab/nterior-spotlight-designer-Katie-Fischer-vintage-stool.jpg BLOG - Styling a Beautiful, Timeless Home: Inside Interior Designer Katie Fischer’s Curated Home Décor World - STYLING A VINTAGE MIX ON A RISER Another brilliant styling piece is a riser - adding interest and the natural texture of aged wood - to a table or kitchen worktop. Katie uses hers, pictured here, to elevate everyday essentials on the kitchen countertop, making the surface feel more pulled together. With its beautifully unique grain, the wood adds warmth and texture to a kitchen, bathroom, or living space, and the subtle marks of time only enhance its authentic charm. A riser, like this one, works just as well in the bathroom for soap dispensers, scented candles, and other decorative accents. The slightly raised design creates a sense of order on other surfaces like a dining table or coffee table. Here, Katie has styled her riser with vintage brass salt and pepper grinders, a porcelain trinket box, and an antique vase filled with lavender. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/alternative-bedside-table-ideas monthly 0.5 2026-04-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/04d7019e-31e3-40c3-9901-490e03e23989/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - Alternative Bedside Table Ideas for a Stylish Bedroom - Interior Styling Blog for Real Homes: Ideas, Advice & Inspiration Hi, I’m Sandra, this blog is about interior styling for real homes. If you love interiors and want your home to feel stylish, pulled together, yet still personal, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll be sharing styling advice to help you edit, layer, and finish your home with confidence, alongside articles on what’s happening in the interiors world — from design events and colour stories to features on interior gurus - so you get the full picture. I also take you on tours of beautifully styled homes from around the world, offering inspiration and styling ideas to steal for your own space. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. In today’s post, I’m going to show you a few creative alternatives to a traditional bedside table or nightstand, from vintage hat boxes and upholstered pouffes to simple tree trunks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/74b7760b-0af7-45e2-8596-ad0c74b48726/Alternative-bedside-table-ideas-rattan-tray.jpg BLOG - Alternative Bedside Table Ideas for a Stylish Bedroom - STYLISH BEDSIDE TABLE IDEAS TREE TRUNK TABLE Photo credit: Hovia https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d69bf73b-3d1b-4f15-ab3a-1c42ed8a0e5e/Alternative-bedside-table-ideas-hat-boxes.jpg BLOG - Alternative Bedside Table Ideas for a Stylish Bedroom - Hat boxes stacked up for a unique bedside table Vintage hat boxes are a clever way to create your very own bespoke bedside table, like the ones shown here, which I photographed for an interiors magazine. The homeowner, interior stylist Clare Southcombe-Holmes, found the hat boxes in a vintage shop and loved the touch of nostalgia they brought to the room. We kept the styling simple, using a small vase with a single flower and a scented candle. Vintage cases can work just as beautifully, while also providing useful storage for books and practical bedside essentials. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst photographed and featured in Coast magazine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/16bc5920-9baa-42a1-9e31-a53933fa24ac/Alternative-bedside-table-ideas-organic.jpg BLOG - Alternative Bedside Table Ideas for a Stylish Bedroom - Organic wooden tree trunk bedside table Carved from a solid piece of wood, this tree trunk table is quite an imposing piece, yet still feels beautifully understated. It’s one of my favourite alternative bedside tables as it brings nature and an organic shape into the room in a sophisticated way and looks especially striking next to the beetroot-coloured linen by The Secret Linen Store. It has been styled with a few carefully chosen pieces, including unusually shaped ceramic vases and foliage. The table also works perfectly paired with the wooden headboard, helping the whole scheme feel cohesive. Photo credit: The Secret Linen Store https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/eb02464f-5353-485f-8faa-7009211614d8/Alternative-bedside-table-ideas-poured-concrete.jpg BLOG - Alternative Bedside Table Ideas for a Stylish Bedroom - Cloud-like poured-plaster bedside table Designed by host and owner Natalie to feel cloud-like, this custom poured-plaster bed frame incorporates bedside tables as one seamless piece. This is such a simple yet elegant way to combine the tables, headboard, and bed frame as one. Natalie has kept the styling to a minimum with a magazine and vase of dried flowers, allowing for a woven pendant light to be a focal point. This bedroom is part of a stunning vacation rental in Joshua Tree that I wrote about a few months ago. If you’d like to see more images of Desert Wild, check out Stunning Moroccan-Inspired Desert Home Tour Packed with Styling Ideas. Photo credit: courtesy of Desert Wild https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b20dd8f9-e82b-4e8c-b9c1-b1999a6e9600/Alternative-bedside-table-ideas-pouffe.jpg BLOG - Alternative Bedside Table Ideas for a Stylish Bedroom - An upholstered pouffe bedside table A pouffe like the one shown here makes a lovely alternative bedside table. It adds colour, texture, and warmth to the room and is a useful place for hidden storage. Because it is upholstered, it works best teamed with a decorative tray, especially if you want to place a cup or glass on top and avoid spillages. For a more personal and considered look, a couple of books and a candle can also be added. The fabric of the pouffe can tie in with the wider interior scheme like it does here, contrasting with the vibrant mustard walls painted in Three Bears Earthborn paint. Notice how the stripes of the pouffe echo the blue in Avery’s Sky (also by Earthborn) which has been painted on the shelves and cabinet, making the room feel more pulled together. Photo credit: Earthborn https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/52fb8822-666a-40e0-967d-5346f755ba9f/Bedside+table+ideas-old+woodcrate.jpg BLOG - Alternative Bedside Table Ideas for a Stylish Bedroom - Repurposed old crate as a rustic-style bedside table This old wooden crate, repurposed by homeowner Clare Southcombe-Holmes as a bedside table for her daughter’s bedroom, is a piece that she believes was originally used for produce. It’s another one of my examples of budget-friendly yet characterful alternative bedside table. Clare, who is also an interior stylist, worked together with me to get a great shot that appeared in Dutch Magazine Ariadne at Home. For the styling, we added books, a jar with feathers, some flowers, and a quirky hand sculpture. It’s rustic at its best, bringing texture and individuality to the room, while proving that a bedside table doesn’t need to be an expensive designer piece to make an impact. If you’d like to see more of Clare’s styling ideas, I featured her in An Interior Stylist’s Vintage Filled Vacation Home. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/09ed0bdb-ffa9-4c5d-b4fe-4571c69bb2db/Alternative-bedside-table-ideas-classic-side-table-.jpg BLOG - Alternative Bedside Table Ideas for a Stylish Bedroom - Classic side table as a timeless bedside table This classic round side model works well as an effortless bedside table. Because there is an alcove shelf displaying books and flowers, the table itself can remain small, with just enough space for the table lamp by Oka, to make a statement. Finished in antique gold, the table is decorative in its own right and pairs beautifully with the metal of the bed frame and the richly patterned soft furnishings, also by Oka. It often works well to have one metallic element, like the table, in a room, which adds warmth and texture. If you’d like to explore this further, you might want to read my feature on stylish interior elements to elevate your home, which includes introducing metallics into an interior. Photo credit: OKA https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/10d417e7-9437-4790-80e5-f6dd65bfc14f/Bedside+table+ideas+interior+style+host-tree+trunk+table.jpg BLOG - Alternative Bedside Table Ideas for a Stylish Bedroom - Silver birch tree-trunk bedside table This table is a wonderfully simple solution and completely individual. It’s nothing more than a tree trunk taken straight from the homeowner’s grounds and placed beside the bed. Small but practical, it provides just enough space for your book or glass. Like the bed frame, which the homeowner crafted himself, the trunk, which is from a silver birch tree, has been left completely untouched, with the raw bark adding texture for that organic feel. If you like the look, tree-trunk tables can be found in home stores. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst for Seasons Wonen, 25 Beautiful Homes and Modern Farmhouse magazines https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0204f94c-45f6-4b71-b927-ce3c4532ee3a/Alternative-bedside-table-ideas-side-table.jpg BLOG - Alternative Bedside Table Ideas for a Stylish Bedroom - Streamlined sleek bedside table An elegant side table like this one, with its white stone top and slender steel legs, works beautifully as a bedside table. A pared back design with no drawers or shelves, is ideal if you want a more streamlined look. Keeping the table more discreet, like in the bedroom pictured here, allows for the beautiful cushions and bedspread in the Perth Bedroom range by Ian Mankin to be the main attraction This richly textural fabric has also been used to upholster the headboard and pendant lights, which in a group of three hung slightly staggered, create a striking feature above the table. It’s an example of how a bedside table does not need to be the key feature in a room to still look stylish and thoroughly considered. Photo credit: Ian Mankin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1162ad6c-a1dd-460d-b215-26cc1746ee48/Alternative-bedside-table-ideas-vintage-painted.jpg BLOG - Alternative Bedside Table Ideas for a Stylish Bedroom - Repurposed and painted bedside table This image is of my sister’s heritage-style guest bedroom and, as you can see, she has an excellent eye for sourcing and refurbishing pre-loved and vintage pieces. The delicate bedside table was a shabby old wooden side table, which she gave a new lease of life with a couple of coats of paint. It is the mixture of the anthracite grey, delicate carving, and elegant legs that works so well with, and complements, the various yellow tones in the room. She styled it with a vintage framed still life, a vase of flowers, and a couple of small books. It’s a great example of how even the most time-worn pieces can be brought to life with a lick of paint and thoughtful styling. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6aa074d7-6bc1-49d0-aee3-72676ea0255d/Alternative-bedside-table-ideas-white-stool.jpg BLOG - Alternative Bedside Table Ideas for a Stylish Bedroom - Simple stool beside table Easy to move, simple, and perfect for keeping a room looking uncluttered, a stool can make an excellent bedside table. Stools come in many different forms, from rustic vintage pieces to more modern, design-led styles, and they are often the ideal height to work comfortably next to a bed as a bedside table. Here, a stool has been styled very simply, just with a plant and an alarm clock for that pared-back Scandinavian feel. The contrast between the wooden legs and bright white finish gives it a fresh, modern look that pairs beautifully with the white floral bed linen. Photo credit: Benjamin Voros at Unsplash https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d28f9134-09b4-4620-8015-e63df7ee4e2f/Alternative-bedside-table-ideas-rustic-stool.jpg BLOG - Alternative Bedside Table Ideas for a Stylish Bedroom - Rustic vintage stool bedside table I am especially fond of these small rustic stools, also known as milking stools, which bring charm and character to a bedroom. My friend, artist Lou Rayburn, sourced a pair for either side of her guest bed from Sunbury Antiques Market near London, where you can often find real gems. The vintage Anglepoise lamp was also found there, and Lou wisely had it PAT tested before use. Similar vintage stools in various sizes can also be seen in the home of interiors guru Katie Fischer, which I featured recently, and they are available to buy through her online store. Photo credit: Lou Rayburn @lourayburnprints https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/afbac62b-fbc8-4a87-8730-2fc0e793b0ef/Alternative-bedside-table-ideas-wood-built-in.jpg BLOG - Alternative Bedside Table Ideas for a Stylish Bedroom - Minimalist custom-made bedside table This minimalist, custom-made bedside table forms part of a built-in headboard with a narrow ledge on each side of the bed ideal for placing a glass of water or phone overnight. Made from rustic oak, the design also incorporates shelving behind the headboard and a low-level shelf. The overall result is understated and stylish, yet still warm and inviting. While the ledge is best suited for placing overnight essentials, the shelf behind offers the perfect spot for decorative pieces, as shown here with concrete pots and two white peonies. I styled it along with the homeowner, artist Armi Maddison, for a shoot that appeared in Modern Rustic magazine. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4d1a309b-04e2-4375-a8c6-74e34306686b/Bedside+table+ideas-InteriorStyleHost.jpg BLOG - Alternative Bedside Table Ideas for a Stylish Bedroom - Mini round ledge table complete with light What I love about this bedside light, complete with its built-in miniature wooden table, is that it’s the perfect solution for small bedrooms where you don’t have enough floor space for a bedside table. I sourced these from La Redoute for my own vacation rental and, as the image shows, they are just about big enough for a glass of water and a phone. Installed on each side of the bed, they prove that compact, dual-purpose designs are small but stylish alternatives if space is limited. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/outdoor-cushion-styling-ideas monthly 0.5 2026-03-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Cushion Styling Ideas to Elevate Your Patio, Terrace or Garden - Interior Styling Blog for Real Homes: Ideas, Advice & Inspiration Hi, I’m Sandra, this blog is about interior styling for real homes. If you love interiors and want your home to feel stylish, pulled together, yet still personal, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll be sharing styling advice to help you edit, layer, and finish your home with confidence, alongside articles on what’s happening in the interiors world — from design events to colour stories - so you get the full picture. I also take you on tours of beautifully styled homes from around the world, offering inspiration and styling ideas to steal for your own space. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. In today’s post, I’m sharing a range of outdoor cushion ideas, from flamboyant colourful prints to subtle stripes and elegant neutrals. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/45537fbe-989a-42f8-bb48-b4a64a8e3a01/outdoor-cushion-styling--group-of+cushions-on-bench.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Cushion Styling Ideas to Elevate Your Patio, Terrace or Garden Photo credit: Oka https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6bfbd7f1-eb7f-4eef-bd81-386a08d53572/outdoor-cushion-styling-earthy-tones.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Cushion Styling Ideas to Elevate Your Patio, Terrace or Garden - Styling with a mix of earthy toned outdoor cushions While I still admire vibrant colours, this has to be one of my favourite outdoor schemes, where bamboo is paired with soft white and earthy tones. These subtle striped cushions in shades of terracotta and cinnamon, look so stylish pictured here on this beautiful handmade sofa and chair by Tine K Home. The earthy tones are set against white and sand-toned seat cushions, allowing them to stand out. It looks so sophisticated yet stylishly understated. Notice how, although four cushions feature stripes, each one has a subtle variation, which creates a cohesive look without feeling too rigidly matched. Most outdoor seating will come with its own choice of base cushions, like the ones shown here, which are available in white, sand, light grey or dark grey, so you will want to take this into account when choosing you scatter cushions. Photo credit: Idyll Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/70c9dfb9-f77e-49c1-876c-bbe2d0d1350d/Outdoor-cushions-dark-grey.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Cushion Styling Ideas to Elevate Your Patio, Terrace or Garden - Sustainable monochrome outdoor cushion made from recycled bottles With a soft, cotton-like woven feel and an embroidered central stripe panel, it's hard to believe that this grey cushion is made from approximately 600 recycled plastic bottles. The result is not just a cleaner planet, but a stylish and practical cushion designed and made to stand the test of time. In smoky charcoal, faded black, this design would work with a wide range of interior styles, from monochrome schemes and beach house vibe to the relaxed vintage setting pictured here, and would look equally at home on contemporary outdoor furniture. So if you want a stylish and truly sustainable cushion, this is the one for you. Photo credit: Weaver Green https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/fe9e66ea-c70b-4aa8-9d94-4a767fc96262/outdoor-cushion-styling-modern-stripes.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Cushion Styling Ideas to Elevate Your Patio, Terrace or Garden - Striped outdoor cushions for a fresh, coastal look Photo credit The 1 hotel Miami South Beach photographed by Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c25ba556-57b4-4e8a-a90f-101597178528/outdoor-cushion-styling-earthy-toned.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Cushion Styling Ideas to Elevate Your Patio, Terrace or Garden - Matching outdoor cushions for a cohesive look This serene courtyard in Riyadh takes desert charm to a whole new level. Against a backdrop of sandstone walls and palm trees, the deep terracotta cushions beautifully enhance the rattan sofas by Luxxu, keeping the seating area luxurious while still feeling earthy and organic. With their striking bold diamond print, they add depth, contrast and an extra layer of style. Although there is a trend towards using a more eclectic mix, these cushions prove that a matching set can look every bit as sophisticated and, in the right setting, can make the whole area feel even more considered and cohesive. Photo credit: Luxxu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7da8be0c-5300-457b-b143-6d5d95945c8c/outdoor-living-space-ideas-sofa-outdoor-cushions.png BLOG - Outdoor Cushion Styling Ideas to Elevate Your Patio, Terrace or Garden - Pairing printed and patterned outdoor cushions A patterned, coloured or textured cushion can make a huge difference to a seating area, as seen here on an outdoor built-in plaster bench that I photographed in Spain. Mixing and matching cushions works just as well outdoors as it would on indoor furniture. You might pair a patterned design with a plain cushion or, as shown here, combine a bold print with an interesting pattern in a more tactile fabric. These cushions, which feature lovely detailing like the coral print with textured piping, both stand out beautifully against the bright, white Mediterranean-style seating. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/85b4b4c4-cfc9-4d41-8c9b-3010c32ed226/outdoor-cushion-styling-country-style.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Cushion Styling Ideas to Elevate Your Patio, Terrace or Garden - Country house-inspired outdoor cushions in soft muted tones The cushions in this seating area sit in front of a traditional country-style home, and the setting is reflected in its charming outdoor living area. It looks especially lovely set against white climbing roses and those gorgeous Hydrangea Annabelle blooms. A modular rattan sofa by Bridgman, with light beige seat and back cushions, has been styled with a mix of soft green plain cushions, striped designs and two printed fabrics. In keeping with the country-style look, the palette remains soft and muted, so everything blends together beautifully without overpowering the space. With a large sofa, it works well to mix cushions in this way, combining subtle prints, plains and stripes to give the arrangement a more relaxed and layered look. Photo credit: Bridgman https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/dbec4f9d-dd48-4a5d-be3b-7d8a67dffc30/outdoor-cushion-styling-deep-colours.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Cushion Styling Ideas to Elevate Your Patio, Terrace or Garden - Combining outdoor cushions in different shapes I love how stylish and cohesive this seating area looks, with two rectangular cushions beautifully coordinated in the same sable stripe fabric as the pouffe. The circular and square decorative cushions in a deep green are far more than simply finishing touches, creating a striking contrast against the pale plaster backdrop. Notice how, for added interest, one is circular while the other is square; as well as bringing definition to the seating area, this prevents it from looking too contrived. Drawing inspiration from Japanese art, this contemporary double sofa by Juliette’s Interiors is a sleek, iconic design, while the overall scheme reflects the latest move towards more natural interiors. Photo credit: Juliette’s Interiors Ltd https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ad922e73-1c21-44ef-b878-8e9d9b275e7c/outdoor-cushion-styling-green-cushion.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Cushion Styling Ideas to Elevate Your Patio, Terrace or Garden - Embroidered outdoor cushion for a textured look You can now find outdoor cushions that have embroidery, adding that extra layer of detailing. I particularly like this one by Cox & Cox in an earthy green with a contrasting terracotta embroidered motif, which brings an artisanal feel to garden seating. A cushion like this works beautifully as a single statement piece, especially when only one cushion is needed for a chair. Shown here alongside neutral tones, it stands out effortlessly, though it could be just as easily layered with several different designs for an even more decorative look. Photo credit: Cox & Cox https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/183832b1-74ed-4879-9492-33c0be07ce23/outdoor-cushion-styling-botanical-print.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Cushion Styling Ideas to Elevate Your Patio, Terrace or Garden - Botanical print outdoor cushions Green botanical prints inspired by leaves, flowers and foliage create that extra connection to nature, making them perfect for a garden seating area surrounded by trees and planting. The extra-large cushion by Dibor is decorated with a delicate botanical-inspired pattern of watercolour green leaves set against a white background. It is ideal for a seat or small bench as a standalone cushion and looks particularly elegant on this classic white piece of wrought iron furniture. Remarkably, the cushion is made from pure cotton with a water-repellent coating, making it weather-resistant as well as beautiful. Photo credit: Dibor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/dbc01714-be55-4a5b-b702-0e88fec0af58/outdoor-cushion-styling-beige-and-white-stripe.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Cushion Styling Ideas to Elevate Your Patio, Terrace or Garden - Neutral-toned outdoor cushions for a sophisticated look I am always a fan of neutrals, as they can look so sophisticated as shown in this beautiful outdoor setting. These striped outdoor cushions in soft taupe and muted ivory tones coordinate with the white seat cushions, while still having subtle differences in the direction of the stripes. The outdoor sofa and chairs from Idyll Home evoke a sense of quiet moments on the terrace, while their light weave and soft lines create a relaxed, effortless feel. With both the seat cushions and scatter cushions kept in an understated palette, the overall look feels serene. Photo credit: Idyll Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cb0a61f8-17d6-4dee-a1f4-5ed65f7bb4d4/outdoor-cushion-styling-sardines.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Cushion Styling Ideas to Elevate Your Patio, Terrace or Garden - Whimsical printed outdoor cushions for a playful look Refresh your garden décor with whimsical cushions, such as this sardine print design, which works perfectly as a joyful accent cushion on an outdoor chair. Designed with interesting on-trend prints, this style of cushion is a simple way to bring personality and character to an outdoor setting. Outdoor cushions are not limited to exterior spaces - they can look every bit as stylish indoors, with their hard-wearing fabric making them a practical choice for areas such as kitchens and conservatories. Photo credit: Icon Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/75508580-796b-4edd-933b-17e4f0f1e3f3/outdoor-cushion-styling-med-style.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Cushion Styling Ideas to Elevate Your Patio, Terrace or Garden - Styling with patterned outdoor cushions for that Mediterranean feel There’s something especially uplifting about a pattern that can transform an outdoor seating area. This intricate blue and white patterned cushion and matching pad from Dekoria GmbH bring a fresh Mediterranean feel, and are an easy way to create a holiday atmosphere in your own garden. A single cushion looks gorgeous on this comfortable lounge chair, while the coordinating seat pads are wonderfully versatile and can be placed on a bench, on the grass or floor as shown here for a relaxed, thoughtful combination. Photo credit: Dekoria GmbHg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2c0f4c01-9780-4fd8-b4e9-9f14c232340a/outdoor-cushion-styling-brightly-coloured.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Cushion Styling Ideas to Elevate Your Patio, Terrace or Garden - Bold, vibrant and flamboyant outdoor cushions If you've seen enough of pale neutrals, seaside blues and earthy tones, you may be drawn to the opposite end of the spectrum with something bold, bright and full of colour. Featuring a playful slogan and eye-catching design, the OHS Spicy Margs cushion takes centre stage on this outdoor sofa. It is surrounded by cushions in striking bold orange and pink stripes, while a palm print introduces a contrasting pattern and brings more green into the palette. Together, these flamboyant cushions add personality, warmth and charm to an outdoor setting. Photo credit: OHS https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5938d582-e50c-4969-b37a-c85a5332c8da/Outdoor-cushion-styling-seating-in-wall.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Cushion Styling Ideas to Elevate Your Patio, Terrace or Garden - Elevating a wall seat with outdoor cushions and seat pads If you want to feel at one with nature while still making the area feel dressed, adding seat cushions to a wall is a beautiful way to create an outdoor seating area. A retaining wall can easily double up as a permanent outdoor bench, as shown here in this garden in Ibiza. Integrated into a dry stone wall, the seating, and cushions especially, help define it as an outdoor room. Interior designer Helena Impett chose the fabric for the seat cushion and, instead of using regular square cushions, she opted for two bolsters to give it a more distinctive and considered look. If you have a wall seat, you can make your own seat pad by covering foam in an outdoor fabric of your choice. Photo credit: Helena Impett Interiors https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/london-design-week-2026 monthly 0.5 2026-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0e3d6938-de9c-4da6-bd0c-aa9c8bcf553e/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Interior Styling Blog for Real Homes: Ideas, Advice & Inspiration Hi, I’m Sandra, this blog is about interior styling for real homes. If you love interiors and want your home to feel stylish, pulled together, yet still personal, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll be sharing styling advice to help you edit, layer, and finish your home with confidence, alongside articles on what’s happening in the interiors world — from design events to colour stories - so you get the full picture. I also take you on tours of beautifully styled homes from around the world, offering inspiration and styling ideas to steal for your own space. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. Today’s post is all about interior inspiration, highlights and stylish details from my trip to London Design Week 2026. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/11ea52e5-ced7-4a7e-8ee9-be0ad7c7e9a5/London-design-week-spring-highlights-2026-.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7d2a49d1-3fbe-4fbd-be1e-e3f2abcfda30/Design-Centre-Entrance-with-flowers.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out SPRING BLOOMS AT THE DESIGN CENTRE LONDON Many brands were launching their spring collections and seasonal blooms were in abundance, but one of the most impressive sights for me was at the entrance to the Design Centre. Over a dozen white pots in different heights, sizes and shapes were brimming spring flowers, creating such a breathtaking display and setting the tone for the show. It has inspired me to swap out my bunch of different pots for all white ones. The flowers were a striking mix of spring blooms including daffodils, paperwhites, tulips and a few grape hyacinths for that essential hint of purple. Some were potted bulbs, while the larger containers had been styled as arrangements with tulips, daffodils, foliage and branches of blossom. Three pots were elevated on plinths for added interest, which gave the whole display height and balance. If you’d like to see last year’s display and read more about styling spring flowers, you can take a look at my Styling Spring Blooms feature. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5bd48331-e0b5-4803-99a8-a249058a2c27/London-design-week-spring-2026-Ralph-Lauren.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out GOING DOWN MEADOW LANE AT RALPH LAUREN We started at the Ralph Lauren Home showroom, where they unveiled their new Spring/Summer 2026 collection, Meadow Lane. It was such an uplifting way to begin the show with fresh meadow flowers, gorgeous fabrics on display and delicious coffee, of course! Ralph Lauren Home has always taken a pioneering lifestyle approach, which was so evident in this current collection that celebrates timeless coastal living capturing the essence of charming homes by the sea. Looking at all the different blue-and-white prints made us think of those long summer days and balmy evenings. As Ralph Lauren puts it, “Summer is more than a season. It's a natural world of endless blue skies, the ocean, green fields, and white fences, rusticity and elegance with a quality of light that inspires dreamers year after year." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3c65f53f-b3e6-4f07-a8d7-9460791b6df7/London-design-week-spring-2026-Kit-Kemp.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out KIT KEMP IN CONVERSATION AND SIGNING COPIES OF HER BOOK Kit Kemp is a visionary designer and co-founder of the luxury boutique Firmdale Hotels. Her aesthetic is often described as bold, colourful and whimsical, with a kaleidoscope of colour and pattern that blurs the lines between traditional and contemporary style. We joined Kit at the GP & J Baker showroom in conversation with their creative director and Homes & Gardens editor Jo Bailey, as they discussed the design journey behind their second fabric and wallpaper collaboration. Kit was also launching her beautiful new book, Design Stories, at the event and I was delighted that she signed a copy for me. Back at home it feels like more than just a book; it’s also the perfect styling accessory for my new shelving. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/36291439-d507-4547-8e53-27117acbb38a/London-design-week-spring-2026-Lincrusta-wall-covering.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out A BESPOKE WALLCOVERING WORKSHOP AT LINCRUSTA We stopped off at the Lincrusta showroom for an interactive demonstration showing how the world’s most deeply embossed wallcoverings can be transformed with paint finishes and layering techniques. We were given a choice of several designs and paints to work with. I chose gold, while Sophie went for gold combined with pink, and we each left with our very own customised piece. It also struck me that these embossed wallcoverings are a wonderful way of adding texture and something unique to an interior scheme. I was inspired to think about using them on a new headboard idea I’d been planning, so Alison from Lincrusta showed me a beautiful example of a headboard, pictured here, in a contemporary hotel bedroom setting. This design is the Elizabeth, a regal pattern that mirrors the orderly geometric motifs favoured in 16th-century English stately homes. It, like all of the Lincrusta wallcoverings, adds a sense of grandeur and elegance to any interior today. Photo credit: Courtesy of Lincrusta https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/863ba6fa-9493-4549-8def-5edef8a53376/London-design-week-spring-2026-Mind-the-gap-showroom.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out UNVEILING OF THE NEW COLLECTION FROM MINDTHEGAP MindTheGap are celebrating ten years and, since launching in 2016, have become something of a sensation for their artistic bravery in design, taking historical patterns and giving them a rebellious, creative twist through bold colour and pattern in a way that is fearless and fresh. For their latest richly textured collection, they draw on their Transylvanian roots, shaped by the romance and free spirit of their enchanted homeland. One of my biggest takeaways from Design Week was a renewed confidence to use colour and pattern, which spending time at the MindTheGap showroom confirmed further. The team are endlessly creative and have just launched a newspaper and a video on Instagram so fans and visitors can discover more about their brand and story. I will be writing a full feature on this fascinating company, so do watch this space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9a87ad0a-ab57-4d78-ac78-47ca2115463e/London-design-week-spring-2026-Ca%E2%80%99+Pietra.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out DELFT TILE PAINTING AT CA’ PIETRA To mark the launch of their new collection, we joined resident artist Aaron Hammond for a hands-on Delft tile painting workshop, exploring pattern and craftsmanship over drinks, nibbles and informal networking. Originating from the Dutch town of Delft in the 16th century, the tiles remain popular today. Traditionally defined by their blue-and-white palette, Delft tiles are typically square in shape, with delicate corner motifs and a central design such as a windmill, bird or flower. Ca’ Pietra always produces the most sophisticated tiles in beautifully considered designs, but their Spring/Summer 26 collection takes a more grounded view of luxury, with a focus on tactile materials and the beauty of natural variation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/be7467a5-f642-459a-a79b-3d7626221029/London-design-week-spring-2026-Pierre-Fray.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out ARTIST DESIGNS AND JARDIN À LA FRANÇAISE AT PIERRE FREY When we first walked into the Pierre Frey showroom, we were immediately struck by wallcoverings and fabrics that felt as though they had been imagined by an artist. Pictured left is Mémoires Colorées - a collection of fabrics, wallpapers and rugs created by Belgian artist Isabelle de Borchgrave in collaboration with Patrick Frey and his creative studio. The next section of the showroom, pictured right, was reminiscent of the gardens of Versailles, with wallpaper, cushions and curtains reflecting the refined geometry of formal parterres alongside lush vegetation. This was the Jardin à la Française, a collection that captures Pierre Frey’s wonderfully inventive and eclectic way of drawing inspiration from both the past and cultures around the world. Having recently purchased a chair upholstered in one of Pierre Frey's outdoor fabrics, in a small ikat print, I am proud to have a little piece of Maison Pierre Frey in my own home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2a87081c-933d-424e-ad77-5204d2d4b1ff/London-design-week-spring-2026-Ashley-Stark.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out ASHLEY STARK’S COLLECTION AT STARK We arrived at Stark just in time for a talk with a panel of guest speakers, who shared their tips on sourcing, buying secrets and turning plans into reality. It was full of valuable advice, especially for interior designers. Alongside the talk, the family-run company was presenting a spring-focused launch celebrating light through colour, geometry and form. This included a stunning collection from Ashley Stark, pictured left beside her Alicia rug, which offers a fresh take on the classic stripe motif. Pictured right in the showroom window is another of Ashley’s designs, Cicely, which brings in bright accent colours and offers a modern take on a classic Oushak design, hand-knotted from pure wool. As well as playing a major role in Stark, which began in 1938 and is now in its third generation, Ashley has also established her own brand, Ashley Stark Home, which focuses on rugs, lighting, and home décor. Photo credit: image left courtesy of STARK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/fabf2622-dac5-40b8-8ad1-363e4e042148/Untitled+design+copy+5.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out ARTISTIC CREATIVITY AND DESIGN TALK AT WATTS 1874 Having visited Chelsea Harbour for well over a decade, this was my first time stepping into the Watts 1874 showroom, drawn in by my favourite shades of pink, green and blue. Inside, I was greeted by a feast for the eyes: exquisite silks, trimmings, rich velvets, hand-blocked wallpapers, chinoiserie and iconographic tapestries as murals, fabrics and wallcoverings. We joined the talk from the CEO and design director, which included the vision shaping the future of the company. I instantly became a fan of the whole look and soon learned that, with its remarkable artistic creativity, it features in the interiors of some of the world’s most aspirational hotels and restaurants, including the Four Seasons Boston and Dubai, as well as Carbone in London. Specialising in bespoke design, Watts 1874 draws inspiration from the past to shape the present. Although it is a fifth-generation family firm, it embraces modern technology and wonderfully non-conformist fabrics and wallcoverings, often bold in both colour and scale. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9fc7f698-da8d-4d50-b71a-32a28246e4cb/London-design-week-spring-2026-Lamp-and-sofa-Romo..png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out BEAUTIFUL STYLING AT ROMO I always look forward to popping into the Romo showroom because it is styled so beautifully, like a real-life interior, with such thoughtful attention to detail. Pictured right is a sofa upholstered in a gorgeous cinnamon-toned striped fabric from their Otillo range. A contemporary coffee table and side table add real contrast to the scheme, styled with books, wooden beads and a plant. On the left is one of those earthenware lamps where its luxurious fabric shade, complete with trim, shows how rustic and refined can pair beautifully together. It is sitting on a plinth, which is another styling detail that we are seeing more of as it adds height and presence to vases, lamps and sculptures, or whatever you choose to place on it. Founded in 1902, Romo is a fifth-generation, family-run British design house, celebrated for its innovative approach to design. The company brings together six brands, all creating market-leading fabrics, wallcoverings and accessories, including Zinc Textile, where I discovered the most exquisite fabric for my own bedroom curtains. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5603863e-36f8-433b-a14a-859fdfe1894f/London-design-week-spring-2026-block-priniting.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out A MODERN BLOCK-PRINT WORKSHOP AT PHILLIP JEFFRIES We joined the team at Phillip Jeffries for a fun hands-on block-print workshop, pictured right, to celebrate the new Drama collection. It was such a lovely way to learn about the process and see how modern design can be brought to life through traditional printmaking. We were each given a canvas bag and a choice of paint colours, which we painted onto a perspex sheet before using a roller to transfer the paint onto the block. With a little pressure, we held it in place on the bag for up to a minute before revealing a gorgeous block-printed design to take home. Now in its fourth decade, Phillip Jeffries has become known as an industry leader in natural, textured and speciality wallcoverings. Pictured left is a vintage-inspired print wallcovering with an all-over pattern that has the look of a hand-stamped block print. The muted hues of this collection are printed on beautifully textured wallcoverings, which add colour and depth to a room like the stunning bathroom shown here. Photo left: Courtesy of Phillip Jeffries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e34d00a2-3ea8-474d-870d-39054f460da2/London-design-week-spring-2026-Savoir.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out A LESSON IN FENG SHUI FOR THE BEDROOM AT SAVOIR We attended a fascinating talk at Savoir on Feng Shui by Master Angela Ang, who explained that when it comes to Feng Shui, the bedroom is the most impactful room in the home. She shared practical design tips for creating a calmer space that supports restorative sleep and overall wellbeing. I was surprised to learn that this involves not only where your bed is positioned - with a bed against a solid wall being ideal - but also what sits above it. Features such as exposed vertical beams, overhead storage, and pendant lights hanging directly above your head can all have a negative impact on sleep. Savoir beds were first created for The Savoy Hotel in 1905 and have been slept in by some of history’s most famous names, including Sir Winston Churchill, Giacomo Puccini, and Marilyn Monroe. Made using the finest natural materials, they are the definition of pure luxury. One of my favourites is the Hugo bed, pictured here. Inspired by the refined detailing of British stately homes, it is one of Savoir's most luxurious beds. With its softly winged headboard, it feels like a modern interpretation of classic furniture-making traditions and brings a timeless elegance to any interior. Photo credit: Michael Sinclair courtesy of Savoir https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/406437b7-ada8-4c60-93dd-d3ced804de40/London-design-week-spring-2026-lights-and-lamps.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out STYLED SETTING BY LIGHTS&LAMPS We stopped off at the House Guests section to look at the latest designs that lights&lamps were launching at Design Week. Here they presented chandeliers, pendants, wall lights, floor and table lamps. The brand focuses on traditional British design, with their new collection Avenue&Acre, being described as a classical revival. The pop-up showroom had been tastefully styled with their lights, and paired with contemporary furniture, books and accessories. They also had my favourite item on display - the portable lamp - which is a styling dream as there is no need for a cable or electricity; you can arrange it on surfaces like shelves and tables. In the image on the right, one of their portable lamps with a marble base and linen shade has been styled on a shelf next to books and ceramic vessels. Suiting every interior style, at nighttime this lamp would add a warm glow and look stylish wherever it’s placed. If you would like to find out more about portable lamps, you can also read my feature on these brilliant styling staples. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/deb65740-477d-4682-b965-b34e56ee9ea4/London-design-week-spring-2026-installation.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out SHOWSTOPPERS AT THE DESIGN CENTRE I have always admired the vast white egg-shaped planters, pictured here, that are permanent fixtures at the Design Centre and now surround the restaurant in the North Dome. They look especially stunning next to planters filled with beautiful pink spring blooms. Alongside the passementerie showrooms, including Samuel & Sons and Houlès - tassels and trims were in abundance, especially in showrooms that had soft furnishings. Cushions, curtains and lampshades all had that extra layer of detail which works whether an interior is modern or classic. Visible from all floors and suspended from the top of the Centre Dome, pictured right, was a show-stopping installation constructed of 500 individual handmade tassels from Samuel & Sons. It was designed using five colourway and stood an impressive 10 metres tall. Since visiting Focus on Design last autumn, I have also become a fan of passementerie and now have three cushions adorned with gorgeous trims. You can purchase the cushion complete with a trim, or buy the trim separately and attach it to one of your own cushions. It really gives cushions, lampshades and other soft furnishings a sophisticated edge and that subtle sense of luxury. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/41d0e06b-00b0-41a9-a89a-05cffdc5494e/London-design-week-2026-house-guests.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out THE BLITHFIELD BOOK CLUB With so many showrooms and pop-up stands to visit, brands that offer that little bit extra during Design Week, whether through a workshop, talk or demonstration, always draw a crowd. Blithfield certainly did that. They are a boutique British textile house renowned for their beautifully printed textiles and wallpapers. Rooted in its rich historic archive, Blithfield fuses vintage inspiration with contemporary energy to create timeless collections. Along with a talk from the co-founders Anne Dubbs and Liz Downing, who met as two American women living in London in 1994, Blithfield invited us to discover their new Melrose collection. There were dozens of surprise books, all beautifully wrapped in one of the wallpaper designs from the range. We were invited to choose a pattern that most enticed us to sit in a room and read, then take the book home and let it inspire us to reimagine our own interior landscape. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/88a80867-4585-4349-b62f-7c86e65fbd18/London-design-week-spring-2026-Moodboard.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out A DESIGN TALK AT FRATO Frato hosted a talk with Armaghan Okohvan of Arma Interiors, highlighting the care, precision and vision behind contemporary Portuguese design. One point that really stayed with me was her description of furniture as being like architecture for the home, which is exactly how I feel about my sofa. The right piece shapes the space rather than simply disappearing into the background. After the talk, we toured the showroom, which had been cleverly divided into different room settings, including a bedroom and living area. Pictured on the right is one of the spaces, a seating area with contemporary-style sofas and side tables styled beautifully with books. What I found especially striking is the wall art – three circular framed fabric panels in different colourways, which felt like such a creative way to add interest to a plain wall. I would describe Frato’s interior style as quiet luxury, and they have a timeless collection which spans furniture, lighting, upholstery and outdoor designs. Around the showroom, there were also mood boards on display, including the one above featuring fabrics for soft furnishings, upholstery and hard materials such as wood finishes for tables. Through images, textures and colours, a mood board can help give you a vision and understanding of whether your chosen materials feel cohesive and work together. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/07d02018-97eb-4b68-ab42-bcc8622bc6b4/London-design-week-spring-2026-flooring.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out CANDLE MAKING AT KARNDEAN DESIGNFLOORING Candles and diffusers play a special role in creating an interior that smells as beautiful as it looks. Neither Sophie nor I had ever made a candle before, so we were both keen to join. The mindful candle-making experience was held at the showroom of Karndean Designflooring and centred around wellbeing, using premium oils and soy wax. In less than an hour, we each created a personalised candle with our chosen scent to take home. The process itself was surprisingly simple. The wax was melted in a special heater at a high temperature before being poured into a glass jar with a wick we had positioned earlier. We then added 30 drops of fragrance, stirred it carefully, and then let it cool for several hours. When I first walked into the Karndean showroom, I was admiring the décor and what I assumed were stunning marble floors, so I was genuinely surprised to discover that they were actually vinyl. Inspired by nature, Karndean creates beautiful luxury vinyl floors, from marble herringbone and Basque oak to a Kaleidoscope range which has a striking 3D effect. I have luxury vinyl at home myself, and while it looks convincingly like stone, it is so much more practical, warmer underfoot, and far more forgiving when you drop a glass! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f43493e4-530d-488c-b540-e38e2cc534f0/London-design-week-spring-2026-Julian+Chichester.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out NEW COLLABORATION AT JULIAN CHICHESTER We attended a talk in the showroom of furniture designer Julian Chichester with Ed O’Donnell, co-founder and creative director of Angel O’Donnell, and Jodie Hopkins, CEO of Julian Chichester. Here they shared the story behind their collaboration – from the initial inspiration to the final finishing touches, resulting in a beautifully crafted collection of furniture, including the sideboard pictured here on the right. The showroom was full of standout pieces, from a vast rattan pendant to tactile wool chairs and colourful rugs, art and soft furnishings. With its mix of colours and designs, I felt as though I’d been transported to a far-flung place. What I love about Julian Chichester is that the designs feel eclectic, individual and evolving, yet are not a slave to trends. As Julian Chichester says himself: "I have never felt as if I had to maintain a particular style or repeatedly use the same materials. Over the years, influences have changed, materials have changed, and we keep moving on, experimenting and mixing it up." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/bed94f7e-fe6d-4cd1-93fe-426f3352ac79/London-design-week-spring-2026-art.png BLOG - London Design Week Spring 2026: My Styling and Design Takeaways - Make it stand out ARTIST IN RESIDENCE AT THE DESIGN CENTRE It was lovely to meet Angela Murray, who is currently an artist in residence at the Design Centre and works from her studio there each day on both her own collections and bespoke commissions. Sophie had already spotted one of her gorgeous canvases of soft, delicate flowers and was keen to attend her talk. Angela welcomed us, along with several others, into her working studio, sharing her inspiration and creative process while painting at the easel. I was especially interested to learn that she is sometimes given a poem that she brings to life in a painting. Angela showed us a piece she had created for a client from the poem The Shipping Forecast by Seamus Heaney. Art is such an important part of an interior scheme, and one particularly interesting styling tip Angela shared with us was that a dark frame nearly always works best, whether slim or chunky, because it tends to create a stronger contrast with the artwork. Before we left, Angela encouraged us to visit another showroom to view a mixed display of artists' work, pictured here on the right. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/outdoor-living-space-ideas monthly 0.5 2026-03-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/04d7019e-31e3-40c3-9901-490e03e23989/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Interior Styling Blog for Real Homes: Ideas, Advice & Inspiration Hi, I’m Sandra, this blog is about interior styling for real homes. If you love interiors and want your home to feel stylish, pulled together, yet still personal, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll be sharing styling advice to help you edit, layer, and finish your home with confidence, alongside articles on what’s happening in the interiors world — from design events to colour stories - so you get the full picture. I also take you on tours of beautifully styled homes from around the world, offering inspiration and styling ideas to steal for your own space. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. In today’s post, I’m sharing outdoor living space styling ideas - from hammocks and daybeds to tablescapes and those accessories that make outside feel like a stylish extension of your home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3ede3bf6-872a-4329-937e-d79e7e040065/outdoor-living-space-ideas-seating-area.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens Photo credit: Weaver Green https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/82d0b285-c38d-40a2-9139-4d04384b1d56/outdoor-living-space-ideas-styling.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Styling an outdoor console table I thought I’d start with this image of an outdoor console table to show that a stylish outdoor space isn't just about seating areas, dining tables or water-resistant cushions; it’s also about creating a gorgeous vignette on your decking, terrace, patio or even a balcony. This vignette was styled by artist Armi Maddison in the garden of her brand-new London self-build, with the original floorboards from the old house as a rustic backdrop in the sheltered area of the outdoor terrace. Armi styled the wooden console table with a large ceramic planter filled with heucheras, alliums and pink daisies, alongside lanterns and wire sculptures. With a vintage case tucked underneath, the whole look feels relaxed yet considered, giving a lovely country touch to an urban terrace. To find out more about styling, have a read of my post: What is Interior Styling? Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst - as seen in Modern Rustic Magazine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a26fc8ae-8de5-4a16-a9b1-0d176181a508/outdoor-living-space-ideas-large-daybeds.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Stylish outdoor daybeds Daybeds offer the perfect combination of comfort and design, especially when styled with decorative cushions and paired with a chic side table. They are the ideal place to lie flat out or sprawl across if you go for the larger style, like the green rope-effect daybed pictured here from Atkin and Thyme. Whether you prefer a round cushioned model or a sleeker frame, a daybed can look fabulous in any outdoor setting. Often generous in size, they come in a range of hard-wearing materials including wicker, rattan, teak and powder-coated aluminium. Style with outdoor cushions and throws to complement the colour of the bed and make it comfy to lounge on. Scroll down to see the bamboo daybed I created from a single bed. Photo credit: Atkin and Thyme https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d352a9b7-9873-4e58-8301-b9d8540f0991/outdoor-living-space-ideas-rustic-seating2.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Bringing your interior style outdoors You can absolutely make your patio feel just as thoughtfully designed and styled as your interior rooms. Your outdoor space no longer needs to be limited to typical green metal garden or traditional wicker furniture - you can choose seating, tables, lighting, soft furnishings and accessories that reflect your interior style, creating a cohesive, seamless look from inside out. Take this terrace for example. The outdoor sofa and coffee table by Nkuku, which are made from acacia wood, bring texture, exuding a relaxed, modern rustic feel. The sofa is styled with tactile cushions and a linen throw, while potted plants, lanterns and a pouffe add those finishing touches to the patio. It’s a perfect example of how you can style your outdoor space in the same way you would an interior. Photo credit: Nkuku https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7da8be0c-5300-457b-b143-6d5d95945c8c/outdoor-living-space-ideas-sofa-outdoor-cushions.png BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Styling with outdoor cushions OUTDOOR CUSHIONS & THROWS Outdoor cushions are my key styling item. You can transform an old, rundown or very basic garden bench into an attractive seating area simply with a few cushions, like the stylish patterned ones pictured here from Rockett St George. Just like their interior counterparts, outdoor cushions now come in every colour, shape, and design. From tribal patterns to bright Moroccan styles, boho, patterned, or striped, these cushions can complement the interior of your home and bring your indoor scheme outside. In addition, exterior cushions are extremely practical, as you can leave them out during the warmer seasons. Although most are showerproof, I tend to bring mine indoors in heavy rain. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/793940a9-ee76-4ef8-b03e-261bf94207d1/Outdoor-styling-ideas-lighting.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Exterior pendant lights as a stylish feature Outdoor pendants add texture and create an inviting atmosphere by bringing another layer to your outdoor scheme. When switched on in the evening, they become a striking feature that elevates a seating area, making your exterior space blend seamlessly with your interior. Hanging a light in wicker, rope, or rattan, like the statement pendant pictured here by Atkin and Thyme, is a great way to create a focal point in a pergola or an outdoor covered terrace, and you can even hang it from the branch of a tree. This is the Ravello Rechargeable Rattan Pendant Light, which is made of poly-rattan so it won’t fade. It’s waterproof and hard-wearing, as well as looking incredibly stylish. Photo credit: Atkin and Thyme https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/59069caa-7f53-4e9e-9755-f6d13833f53f/outdoor-living-space-ideas-sofa.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Stylish contemporary outdoor sofas Outdoor furniture has become so sophisticated that I recently found myself choosing an outdoor model as an accent chair for my living room. The other surprising bonus is that outdoor fabrics aren’t just beautiful in design and texture, but also incredibly hard-wearing. This contemporary sectional sofa in warm tones from a collection by Talenti is a perfect example. The striped upholstery is a nod to the outdoor tradition of stripes yet reinterpreted in a modern way. And because Talenti is Italian, you can expect that perfect blend of quality and style. Although most outdoor upholstery is water-resistant, because I’m in the UK, I always cover mine overnight and bring the seating and cushions in over the winter. Photo credit: Talenti https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e2d37b74-1182-4a32-90e9-b3c5b23d71f8/outdoor-living-space-ideas-deckchair.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Deckchairs for relaxed outdoor seating Deckchairs evoke that vintage leisure feel, and because they fold up, they are ideal to move around the garden to chase the sun or find that perfect quiet spot. A simple item like this will encourage you to use your outside space, whether you are sitting up reading a book or reclining back soaking up the sunshine. You can create your own stylish seating area on the lawn or in a corner of the garden with a small side table for drinks and snacks. These foldable chairs work brilliantly on a balcony too and look great beside a swimming pool for that retro appeal. If you have a deckchair, the fabric is interchangeable, so you can update it to reflect your interior style. You could opt for a pattern with palm trees, bold stripes, or keep it classic like this elegant design with refined olive-and-white stripes from Cox & Cox, which has the benefit of a built-in pillow to make lounging even comfier. Photo credit: Cox & Cox https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ed694cd9-1b22-489c-ae2d-b50fc2c386e6/outdoor-living-space-ideas-mirror.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Exterior mirrors to add depth outdoors Outdoor mirrors are a smart and stylish way to enhance your outside area. They reflect light, create the illusion of space, and make the area feel brighter and bigger. I like to use a mirror to bring the feeling of an indoor room outside, and to reflect and bounce back natural light. I added three vintage, differently shaped mirrors that I painted with boat paint to enhance a large, plain wall. Position the mirror in a place that will capture the view of the garden or terrace and therefore give a more expansive feel, like the arched windowpane model in gold pictured here by Dibor, which reflects the garden beautifully. With rattan, vintage, windowpane, and many more choices, whatever design you prefer, a mirror adds a decorative touch. Photo credit: Dibor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f5ad377-16e2-4000-a386-096473d94e72/outdoor-living-space-ideas-potted-plants.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Styling with potted flowers on the table I always like to have some kind of potted plant in flower on an outdoor table, as they are more than just a finishing touch - they instantly bring that fresh, outdoors feeling to the whole setting. And when you catch sight of the flowers from inside, they give that styled feel to your outdoor space and a connection to your interior. If you don’t have potted flowers, or are in a windy spot like I am, you can always add a vase of flowers or a few stems of greenery to your table during the day instead. Spring bulbs, such as hyacinths, daffodils, and tulips, always look gorgeous potted up. Later on, repeat-flowering varieties, like the delicate tiny white baby’s breath pictured here, will give you an abundance of flowers all summer. The two stylish grey planters on the table from Lechuza are ideal because not only do they look convincingly like natural stone, they also have the added benefit of being self-watering. Photo credit: LECHUZA https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/746b7c6a-bce1-4ed7-999a-56071833f694/outdoor-living-space-ideas-modern-seating-large-hammock.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Hammocks for relaxed outdoor living Hammocks have been popular for decades and are both functional and stylish. If you don’t have a wall or post to attach a hammock to, you can hang one between two sturdy trees, like this gorgeous generously sized acorn print design by Weaver Green. It has been paired here with outdoor cushions for extra comfort and an effortlessly coordinated look. If you want a hammock on a terrace or don’t have a suitable tree, you can also choose a hammock mounted on a stand. Weaver Green, for example, have hammocks on an oak frame. Photo credit: Weaver Green https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e91ab17e-5869-471e-b33c-bcfa5ca7c78c/outdoor-living-space-ideas-macrame+hammock.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Macrame hammocks for a boho laid-back look This macramé hammock was hung from a hook attached to the wall of an outdoor covered area at one end, and across to a post on the other. To make a feature of the space and create a cohesive feel, the homeowner has placed a row of various plants in macramé hanging pots, echoing the style and material of the hammock. Unlike a hanging swing chair, which is more cumbersome, hammocks can easily be removed when not in use and folded away, making them a flexible solution. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7c9df412-6d76-464e-bb04-13d3242ec240/outdoor-living-space-ideas-cocoon-chair.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Side tables to complete your outdoor seating area This seating area for one has been made to feel special with an egg chair from Atkin and Thyme and a contemporary marble-effect side table, styled beautifully with an outdoor cushion and throw, lanterns and potted plants. The cocoon chair is a real statement piece, and it’s perfect for reading and relaxing. Exterior side tables, like the one featured here, have become design pieces in their own right. Whether positioned next to a single chair, daybed or sofa, they add style and a modern edge to an outdoor setting. And depending on the material, you can even use side tables designed for indoors. For example, I have a stripy black-and-white ceramic interior side table I bring outside in the summer, although I still need to bring it back in at night. Photo credit: Atkin & Thyme https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/440bfe05-97bf-4689-8309-7590d5999ca9/outdoor-living-space-ideas-seating-from-driftwood.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Bespoke outdoor furniture for a personal touch Handcrafted furniture, like the driftwood set in the image here by Hidden Gem Designs, is truly unique. Whether it’s a wooden bench or a matching set complete with sofa and coffee table, the beauty of bespoke garden furniture lies not only in its exclusivity, but the fact that it can be tailored to suit your terrace perfectly. That means you can choose the perfect dimensions and ideal material, as well as cushion fabrics and finishes that complement your home’s overall aesthetic. To find out more about bespoke handcrafted furniture and home decor, check out my blog post: From Fallen Trees to Forever Pieces. Photo credit: Steve Nyman https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/bee36c70-76ff-43ee-96a8-6f537c199ff2/outdoor-living-space-tablescape.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Beautifully set tables for alfresco dining Dining alfresco is one of life’s simple pleasures, and nothing makes the occasion more appealing than a beautifully dressed table. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a romantic supper, you can easily create a welcoming atmosphere, setting the scene with ambient lighting from candles or outdoor lamps like the one pictured here by Sophie Allport. Even if you have an old table, you can instantly elevate it with a tablecloth like the lemon-motif design (also by Sophie Allport), which feels wonderfully summery. And it’s the finishing touches that also make an impact - this table here has been laid with matching lemon-print linen napkins, coordinated tableware and freshly picked flowers from the garden. Photo credit: Sophie Allport https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/91e72384-ac2f-4a14-acd0-b76f46ed6a04/outdoor-living-space-ideas-table-setting+copy.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Creating a tablescape in neutral tones Photo credit https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/84b31982-79dc-4568-a023-7a9dd586ff9d/outdoor-living-space-ideas-hanging-swing.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Swing chairs for a relaxed outdoor retreat With its gentle swaying motion, a swing chair offers relaxation and is a stylish addition to any outdoor setting. If you don’t have a tree and would like one of the modern egg-shaped swing chairs, there are many now available on stands which still create a focal point on a terrace or in the garden. A garden swing chair with a built-in frame combines relaxation and style, and is ideal if you don’t have a tree from which to hang a swing. With a sturdy frame, they can be moved around, allowing you to create a setting in different corners of the garden or terrace, adding a practical element while still being stylish. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/45b0b1dc-f03b-44d2-8c72-dc856fa75207/outdoor-living-space-ideas-balcony.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Bamboo child’s bed reimagined as an outdoor daybed While I love the look of the spacious outdoor daybeds, I specifically required a lightweight, smaller model for my balcony. This enables me to easily bring in the bed in bad weather, especially with high winds where any item left on the balcony could potentially fly off! I, therefore, decided to choose a child’s indoor single bed frame made out of bamboo from La Redoute. This also paired with my outdoor dining table and chairs which are all made from bamboo. I then found a slim memory foam mattress to fit the bed which was lightweight but extremely comfortable. I styled the bed with aqua-toned cushions to blend with the outdoor rug I bought from Wayfair. This particular style of daybed is useful when I have friends over as, placed against a wall, it doubles up as a stylish bench. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/85bcc534-951a-4cf5-9ff4-6e30d89df514/outdoor-living-space-ideas-lamps.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Outdoor portable lamps for a soft evening glow Portable outdoor table lamps transform an outdoor area, adding a stylish indoor touch during the day and creating soft, ambient lighting in the evening. Whether rechargeable or solar, they are now available in so many different designs and colours, like this gorgeous linen grey from Dutch brand Humble. It’s battery-powered and lasts up to 140 hours. If the lamp is an actual outdoor lamp, it will have a higher IP rating (for example, IP65) and can often withstand wet conditions. Solar lamps work well too, but they need to gain enough sunlight during the day to charge properly, so they will glow at night. If you would like to see more models, visit my post Portable Lamps, which is dedicated to cordless lamps. Photo credit: Nedgis https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/09606639-e353-4105-9b53-4280fbfa8179/outdoor-living-space-ideas-DIY-furnature.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - DIY outdoor furniture made from scaffolding planks If you want your outdoor furniture to be completely unique, on a budget, and you are a dab hand at DIY, you can do as I did for my own garden and make your very own custom-made outdoor furniture. I used scaffolding planks to craft a garden bench. Once it was made, I painted it in Anthracite (a deep charcoal grey) exterior paint suitable for wood or metal. I always like to blend rustic style with contemporary, so I repurposed a couple of wooden wine crates into tables for plants and flowers. This is easy to do: you can either paint them to match your scheme or, for a more rustic vibe, just keep them in the natural wood. Finish your DIY table with lanterns and flowering plants in concrete pots for that effortlessly stylish look. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5618ad4d-8b4e-4774-bdbd-0f57fadf817f/outdoor-living-space-ideas-modern-dining.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Outdoor dining in modern designs Outdoor dining is now more stylish than ever as many home stores bring their interior design trends outside. Modern designs have now transpired to outdoor dining, like the one in the image here from Daals, combining elegance with durability. Featuring weather-resistant materials such as wicker, powder-coated aluminium and teak, these dining sets are built to endure most weather conditions. Many modern designs also feature comfy seating and incorporate storage solutions for your outdoor seating pads, cushions, and throws. Photo credit: daals https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/040a4b9a-42da-437e-b89d-d8e3c8670441/outdoor-living-space-ideas-parasol-and-tent.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Parasols and pergolas for shade and style Whether you place it above a table or angle it next to a seat, a parasol is a practical and stylish way to make an outdoor space look more finished. It will also protect you from strong UV rays on those sunny days. The sunshade pictured here by the Raj Tent Club has a gorgeous Chinoiserie print created in collaboration with the V&A. If you are setting up your parasol on the lawn, if possible choose a quiet corner surrounded by trees or flowers so it feels tucked away and special. And if you have the space, you can go all out and set up an enchanting area with a parasol, seating and a small marquee, like the one pictured here. Photo credit: Raj Tent Club https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b61d861f-83ac-42a7-a6dc-d29b9fa35a1e/outdoor-living-space-ideas-outdoor-oven.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Outdoor wood-fired ovens for relaxed outdoor cooking The wood-fired outdoor oven pictured here, was a game-changer for a Dutch couple who had it built in as part of their new home in the Netherlands. The oven allows them to cook and keep warm during the autumn and spring when evenings are cooler, while they can enjoy homemade pizzas, roasted meats, and freshly baked bread no matter the season. The couple can also cook and entertain their guests without being stuck inside, making the whole experience so much more relaxed. If you have a wood-fired oven, create a dining area sheltered by a pergola or a sail-shaped awning to make outdoor dining possible whatever the weather. Beyond the practical benefits, an outdoor oven like this one, becomes a stunning focal point on the terrace. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4326e952-4eaf-4b94-bdbc-75c21f08017d/outdoor-living-space-ideas-curtain.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Exterior curtains for that luxury hotel feel Whether draped over a pergola or framing the edge of a covered area, outdoor curtains instantly add style and luxury to a space – giving it that five-star hotel vibe. After seeing outdoor curtains in hotels on Miami's South Beach, I copied the idea for my last house. I bought inexpensive sheers from IKEA and replaced them every couple of years, but if you want something more substantial to provide shade and protection from the elements, heavier, UV- and weather-resistant fabrics are the best option. Curtains can be attached to the posts of a pergola, like in the image styled with a dining set from Bridgman, or hung from a metal wire that can be attached from one wall to another. Photo credit: Bridgman https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a7ba84c4-49e6-48d4-b1f1-c575326aa163/outdoor-living-space-ideas-kitchen.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Bespoke outdoor kitchens for effortless living An outdoor kitchen encourages you to spend even more time outside in the fresh air. It makes it so easy to cook and dine alfresco and instantly gives that vacation vibe. The one featured here in the Netherlands was built in an undercover spot within an outbuilding, which, being sheltered, can be used even on rainy days. The homeowners have styled the area beautifully with a mixture of plants in attractive pots, candles for evening dining and plenty of culinary herbs for cooking. With its dining nook, from prepping and serving to sitting down together, they have created an outdoor kitchen that is a seamless blend of function and style, bringing the indoors outside. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0e97a2f9-9abc-4650-b249-5745523ae515/outdoor-living-space-ideas-kitchen.png BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Freestanding outdoor kitchens for relaxed entertaining An outdoor kitchen is the ultimate luxury for those who love to entertain or simply enjoy their meals al fresco. It can be fully equipped, like the Grenada Outdoor Kitchen by Barker and Stonehouse pictured here, which can come with a built-in grill and sink, or a simple barbecue station with a prep area. This type of versatile outdoor kitchen is perfect for a barbecue with the family, or for full-on entertaining. And once you have one, you’ll be enjoying many more evenings outdoors. Photo credit: Barker & Stonehouse https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c39cc4fd-eb51-4235-b4d3-06ace11b3ea6/outdoor-living-space-ideas-outdoor-rugs.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Outdoor rugs for bringing your interior outside Outdoor rugs are the ideal way to define and elevate a seating area and really give it that feel of another room. Pair your rug with striking outdoor furniture, like the chairs and sofas in the image here from Covet House, to create an elegant exterior space. These durable rugs are available in a variety of colours and patterns and create warmth and cohesion, whether on a balcony, patio, terrace or decked area. I have had my outdoor rug for several years, and it instantly makes my balcony an extension of my dining room. As it is made of polypropylene and polyester, it has survived all weathers; although, as I’m in the UK, I bring it inside during the winter. You can choose many different types of rugs, from a neutral, woven design to a vibrant, geometric or a vintage design, but whatever the style, ensure that the fabric is weather-resistant for longevity. Photo credit: Covet House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b017bc00-a687-493e-8212-339d90355cc8/outdoor-living-space-ideas-woodburner.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Wood-burning stoves for cosy evenings outside For a cosy, all-year-round seating area, install a wood-burning stove for winter days and summer nights by the fire. This seating area in the Netherlands is the sheltered exterior of a barn belonging to furniture designer Bart van Bekhoven. In addition to crafting the wooden sofa, he installed a wood-burning stove to transform the area into a cosy indoor/outdoor room. Wood piled high acts as dividers to the garden while keeping out any cold draughts. To add to the rustic charm of the space, he has displayed two of his tree trunk tables with candles to create an atmosphere and bring additional warmth to the area. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8b6daff5-4533-454d-9609-726209b95670/outdoor-living-space-ideas-lanterns-and-candles.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Lanterns and candles for atmosphere We’ve looked at styling your outdoor area with table lamps and adding pendant lights to pergolas or covered areas, but another form of lighting is LED candles, like the ones from Lights4fun in the image here. This is a great way to create a magical atmosphere without the worry and hassle of actual flames. With their soft flickering wicks, these days most imitation candles look convincingly like the real thing. You can place them in lanterns, like in the image, for a timeless look and pair them with two or three candles grouped together on a surface or floor. Photo credit: Lights4fun.co.uk ©Lights4fun Ltd https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/22010b45-fb7e-4f3d-8bad-8d72a701aa1e/outdoor-living-space-ideas-outdoor-art.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Outdoor art as a decorative focal point You can be just as expressive outdoors as you are indoors. By incorporating statement pieces and quirky sculptures, you instantly add personality, visual interest and a strong focal point to your garden. As well as freestanding pieces, wall-mounted décor is brilliant for bringing life to a plain wall. A set of sculptural wall art, like Lisa Sarah Designs’ five albatross birds in corten steel, adds a sense of graceful movement to your outdoor space. On an external wall, I hung a set of five diver sculptures, around 30cm tall and made from blackened bronze. They looked striking, were weatherproof, and were always a conversation starter when guests spotted them. Photo credit: Lisa Sarah https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/de367598-7bc9-43e6-a843-9edf1669d9d7/outdoor-living-space-ideas-pots+copy.jpg BLOG - Outdoor Living Space Styling Ideas for Patios, Terraces and Gardens - Outdoor planters for your favourite flowers Once you have your seating or dining table in place, what really makes any outdoor vista look and feel finished are a few planters. If your patio is in an urban area, they give you that all-important connection to nature. You can choose flowering plants that complement the flowers, plants, or shrubs already growing in your garden, or even tie in with your soft furnishings, like the crocosmia pictured here that pairs beautifully with the tones of the cushion. Planters themselves make a huge difference, so it’s worth choosing them according to both your interior style and outdoor scheme. These sleek dark grey ones pictured here from Lechuza are a great example as they give that contemporary vibe to the whole outdoor space. Photo credit: LECHUZA https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/styling-with-spring-flowers-faux-and-real-blooms monthly 0.5 2026-02-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3a2188fa-e1a3-490a-af92-bb4f8dda8054/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - Interior Styling Blog for Real Homes: Ideas, Advice & Inspiration Hi, I’m Sandra, this blog is about interior styling for real homes. If you love interiors and want your home to feel stylish, pulled together, yet still personal, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll be sharing practical styling advice to help you edit, layer, and finish your home with confidence, alongside articles on what’s happening in the interiors world — from design events to colour stories - so you get the full picture. I also take you on tours of beautifully styled homes from around the world, offering inspiration and styling ideas to steal for your own space. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. Today’s post brings a touch of spring into your interiors with a range of spring flowers - both faux and real - styled and arranged in very different ways across a gorgeous mix of vases and vessels. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9ac63c1c-0f11-44dd-8c62-d4b022404492/Styling-with-Spring-flowers.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - STYLING WITH FLOWERS & SEED PODS These are dried alliums I photographed here in a Dutch house. I love their natural, yet almost stately, look displayed on stands. Their versatility makes them just as at home in high-end interiors as in everyday styling, proving that nature’s beauty doesn’t have to be fleeting. Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/73c929c9-e9b0-4227-9017-3dba375e1f5f/Spring-flowersAbigail-Ahern-styling-flowers.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - STYLING WITH FAUX SPRING BOTANICALS Faux spring flowers and blossom are ideal if you want a fuss-free solution, have allergies, or simply don’t want the hassle or cost of a fresh bunch every week. I have faux cherry blossom and the more unusual Leucospermum flowers from Abigail Ahern - an interior designer also known for her a signature collection of handcrafted faux botanicals which offer a stylish alternative to fresh florals. I also love that her range spans from the more foraged and wild stems to spring favourites including hellebores, ranunculus, cherry blossom, lilac and peonies. Abigail is pictured here styling blossoms in one of her sculptural terracotta vases. She prefers a more rustic, artisanal vibe with her vessels - lots of texture in muted tones and shapes that let the flowers do the talking. This is the Romy terracotta vase and, with its classic shape and earthy hues, it is the perfect example. It’s also tall enough to support the longer branches of blossoms. If you keep your artificial flowers away from direct sunlight and dust them regularly, your blooms should stay looking good for years. To find out more about styling and caring for faux botanicals, check out Abigail's Ultimate Faux Flower Guide. And, if you’d like more general styling guidance with Abigail's tips, check out my article: What is Interior Styling? Photo credit: Abigail Ahern https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9bb0abc1-4d2b-4a79-8c61-f6e03c648480/styling-with-spring-flowers-different-daffodils.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - STYLING A MIXED VARIETY OF DAFFODILS IN A CONCRETE POT Along with the classic trumpet variety, there are so many different types of daffodils - from smaller paperwhites and Tête-à-tête to the double varieties that are so exquisite they could be mistaken for peonies or roses. One autumn I planted bulbs from ten different varieties, and the display in the pot pictured here was the result. A few of the names and types in the mix include large-cupped daffodils, double daffodils, ‘Crewenna’ and ‘Bridal Crown’. I used a rustic concrete plant pot which I loved for its rough, uneven patina. The soft, delicate daffodils looked beautiful against it - that contrast of rustic with refined is one of my favourite styling concepts. Styling Takeaway You can use all sorts of vases, pots and vessels to display flowers. And if, like mine, it’s actually an outdoor plant pot with a drainage hole in the bottom, you can place a simple glass or jar inside first to display the flowers. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/bbd696c6-a21a-42da-9759-a2f3e100f59c/styling-with-spring-flowers-vase-tullips+and+grapehyacinths+.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - STYLING SPRING FLOWERS ON A TRAY I styled this spring flower vignette in a converted barn for a shoot that ended up appearing in several magazines. I bought a pot of white grape hyacinths and placed them in a dark grey pot next to a similar-toned vessel holding a single tulip. To create that cascading look, I used a bunch of white tulips with a green tinge and left them to open for a few days. I displayed all three vessels on a rustic wooden tray for a simple tonal look. Grape hyacinths are one of my favourite spring flowering bulbs. I prefer to buy them potted and display them in a stone, terracotta or concrete pot. The flowers on potted spring bulbs last much longer than cut flowers, and you can plant the bulbs outside once they have finished flowering and enjoy them the following year. Styling Takeaway Think outside the box for different vessels with texture and in interesting materials; whether cut or potted, the right vessel can make even one single stem look stylish. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/79d3667e-5719-4a7e-a9a4-a0872d1d0b7f/styling-with-spring-flowers-in-jug.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - STYLING A SMALL BUNCH OF SELECTED FLOWERS IN A JUG I love the look of this mixed bunch displayed in a spring-like ceramic floral jug from Oliver Bonas. With a mix of just a couple of stems of each flower, it feels curated yet still natural - and paired with the jug’s braided handle and beautifully textured surface, it’s the perfect vessel for that relaxed country-style look. Now back to the flowers. This is such a small but gorgeous bunch made up of one white and yellow-centred peony as the focal point, and also white blossom, orange ranunculus and a few sprigs of heather. Proof you don’t need a full bouquet to make an impact. Styling Takeaway For that relaxed, country-style display, arrange in a jug by using just a few well-chosen stems; then pick one larger bloom to act as the star piece, like the peony pictured here, to give the arrangement that styled look. Photo credit: Oliver Bonas https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d8729d26-2d80-4ba0-9613-5ba8e40cbd1d/styling-with-spring-flowers-vase-arrangements-green-Scabiosa.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - STYLISH A COFFEE TABLE VIGNETTE WITH PIN CUSHION FLOWERS I took this photograph of these gorgeous green pincushion flowers in the Netherlands. I love the combination of the fresh, zingy green flowers and foliage with the stylish dark grey ribbed pot, arranged on a coffee table alongside tea-light holders and three sculptural pieces on black stands. It’s a look I really associate with Dutch styling - tonal, minimal yet still making a statement. Styling Takeaway Styling your vase on a coffee table with other items in a similar palette gives the vignette an intentional feel and makes the flowers look even more striking. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2bce4d8e-0079-4c70-86f2-d03b9090f184/Styling-with-blossom-instone-pots.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - BLOSSOMS DISPLAYED ON A PLINTH When styling a house for a magazine shoot, there’s nothing more impactful than a striking vase with generous branches of blossom. Interior designer Katie Fischer recently redesigned rooms in her home, and this stunning office is the result. Her desk is exquisite, but what really finishes off the look is the vase with blossom standing proud on a crisp white plinth. The two antique pots pictured here add instant character to the contemporary space; they are from her antique pot collection, with some over 100 years old. You can view these on Katie’s website. There are a few different types of blossom you can display indoors. Quince is the earliest and I particularly like it for its striking flowers and more unusual form. Then you have the classic fruit blossoms, including apple, cherry, and crab apple. If you want to bring blossom into your own home, bear in mind it does tend to drop fairly quickly, so enjoy it in all its glory while you can. Styling Takeaway In Holland, Belgium, and other parts of Europe, a plinth (also known as a pedestal) is a key piece in interiors. You can see why from the image here, as it gives any vessel height and presence and turns the flowers or branches into a true focal point. Photo credit: Katie Fischer https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c3d18823-07ee-4962-be82-71c6fb346254/styling-with-spring-flowers-ranunculus.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - STYLISH FLOWERS FOR SMALL SURFACES You don’t need a whole bunch of flowers to bring a touch of spring into your interior. These three orange ranunculus look effortlessly stylish in a small pot the perfect size to display on a side table or nightstand. In the image here, they have been styled on a compact upholstered side table by Arlo & Jacob - simple yet very effective. Styling Takeaway Three, five or even one will do. Odd numbers work especially well with flowers; they create a natural sense of balance and harmony. Photo credit: Arlo& Jacob https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ecb70772-1b8f-44f1-a4c3-9f4e12260f80/styling-with-spring-flowers-bathroom.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - STYLING WITH SPRING FLOWERS IN SMALL VASES IN THE BATHROOM The bathroom is often a room that gets forgotten when we are styling our homes, yet a couple of flowers alongside attractive product bottles can soften the space and look effective contrasted against the clean, sometimes stark backdrop of tiles. I styled this bathroom for a magazine shoot and a small branch of viburnum placed beside the bottle was the detail that pulled the whole look together. Styling Takeaway Keep one small vase that you pop a couple of fresh blooms in each week. They can be flowers or shrubs. Right now I’m using camellia flowers from my garden. I snip one stem and pop it in the vase and it makes the simplest yet most effective little display. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1ca6fea6-3a36-4f67-bfaf-c2153ff09aa0/styling-with-spring-flowers-Spring-bunch.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - ARRANGING A SPRING FLOWER BOUQUET A luxurious-looking spring bouquet should feel relaxed, a little structured and put together without looking too rigid. The bunch pictured here from Bloom & Wild is the perfect example. Their flowers arrive loose in a box, so the recipient can arrange them in their own way. This particular bunch is called The Bea and includes tulips, sweet william, stocks, solidago, dianthus and alstroemeria. Styling Takeaway The Bea is a beautiful example of how varied textures can create a show-stopping display so I asked Lucy Hook, Floral Lead at Bloom & Wild, how she arranged the flowers. “Because this bouquet has such a lovely natural variety, I would recommend using a vase with a narrow neck and a wider base. This supports the stems while giving the focal blooms enough space to truly open up and breathe. Start with the structural foliage to create your shape, then nestle in the flowers at varying heights. If you want a more modern look, keep the arrangement slightly asymmetrical to highlight the unique, stems that make The Bea so special." Photo credit: Bloom & Wild https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/097d7e27-134e-41e0-9110-bfc6851b945d/Styling-with-Spring-flowers-azalias.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - STYLING WITH FLOWERING SHRUBS Camellias are some of the first flowering shrubs and they’re my absolute favourites - I actually have them dotted around the house at this very moment. I love how versatile they are - whether you style a single bloom or two in a small bud vase, or clip a few branches and display them in something larger, their flowers always look impressive. There are plenty of other shrubs that flower in early and late spring and are brilliant for bringing greenery and colour indoors - like the early-flowering Azalea pictured here. I displayed these branches for a shoot using one of my larger vintage-style vases, which gives that ‘just gathered’ effect. Flowering shrubs are such a simple option, yet they look effortlessly stylish in almost any vase. Another spring-flowering shrub is the Viburnum opulus ‘Roseum’ (snowball bush) – a staple in many spring arrangements and favoured for its lime-green foliage and beautiful clusters of flowers. Styling Takeaway Vintage-style glass often has a subtle green tint and somehow looks more stylish than plain clear glass. It’s usually heavier and thicker, too, which elevates the arrangement of flowers further. If you don’t have time to scour the thrift shops for true vintage, there are some great new vintage-style alternatives, like my one pictured here, that give a very similar look. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/09edf781-43a0-4c39-995f-f6729c3ef1a6/styling-with-spring-flowers-and-lamp.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - PAIRING FLOWER COLOURS WITH DÉCOR This is a simple yet stylish way to display blooms, and these flowers - upright stalks topped with yellow globes - are called Billy Buttons. They look gorgeous here styled on a side table in a ceramic bottle and paired with a few books. The yellow ties in perfectly with a lamp’s fabric shade in similar tones by British designer Abigail Borg, which gives the whole area a cohesive feel. Billy Buttons (officially Craspedia globosa) start flowering in spring, and once you’ve enjoyed them fresh, they’re one of the easiest flowers to dry. I often just tip the water out and leave them in the vase to dry naturally, but you can also hang them upside down in a dry room to be extra sure they hold their shape and don’t rot. If you want to find out more about displaying, drying and preserving flowers, take a look at my article Styling with Dried Flowers. Styling Takeaway Choose flowers that tie in with your colour scheme - like the yellow here - because it instantly creates a cohesive look in a room. Photo credit: Abigail Borg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/de8408fa-3739-45bc-8c20-3c6bcedc55c5/styling-with-spring-flowers-on-a-tray.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - SPRING BLOOMS STYLED WITH POTTED HERBS I styled the blooms on this table in a red rustic tray to tie in with the red cable of the pendant light. It’s often small details like this that can make a scheme feel more pulled together. I used a vintage-style vase with a mix of purple camassia spikes (wild hyacinth) and ‘Bridal Crown’ daffodils. But what really adds to the display is the greenery. The herbs in rustic terracotta pots are two different types of thyme and add that essential hit of green to balance the industrial backdrop of this converted barn. Styling Takeaway For real impact, style your blooms in a vignette alongside plants. For that layered look, herbs, small trailing plants or succulents work particularly well. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e20e57c1-af6f-4e57-98e6-dc64ca97aa83/styling-with-spring-flowers-glass-vases.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - STYLING SPRING FLOWERS IN SOFT-TONED GLASS VASES So far, the flowers have been styled in stone pots or vintage glass vases, so I thought I’d also show you a selection of coloured glass. These beauties are by Cox & Cox and include a hand-painted petal vase, a multicoloured glass vase and a confetti vase - each one special in its own right, but even more impactful styled as a vibrant group. Alongside the glass vases, the green striped vase is made from terracotta, which has rustic charm yet, with its glossy finish, adds just the touch of refinement to sit comfortably next to the glass vases without feeling out of place. The flowers displayed here are artificial - including poppy stems, hellebores and daisy sprays - and together create that spring feeling for as long as you want it. Styling takeaway For real impact on a console or dining table, display more than one vase. And to make your faux flowers look even more convincing, mix artificial blooms with a couple of sprigs of real foliage - that small touch can make all the difference. Photo: Cox & Cox https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cb26cbed-dbca-4f92-88da-e179a53f4a6a/styling-with-spring-flowers-vase-tullips-in-small-vases.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - STYLING SINGLE STEMS IN BUD VASES GROUPED TOGETHER I have always been a fan of styling a bunch of flowers as single stems in a collection of small vases (often called bud vases) instead of displaying them together as one large arrangement. These little ornate vases are usually inexpensive, and because they come in varying heights and shapes, they look so effective grouped together. They work beautifully on a console table in an entryway, or as the centrepiece of a tablescape, or dotted on a tray (like in the image) where tulips have been paired with white gypsophila. Styling Takeaway If you invest in a few mini vases, as well as displaying them grouped together, you can split them up around your home. For those little floral moments that can lift a whole room, try one on a side table, console, windowsill, bathroom basin, or tucked onto a shelf. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/972df5d2-8045-408d-a033-f9c348f80c29/styling-with-spring-flowers-tullip-mix.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - STYLING THE TABLE WITH SPRING FLOWERS FOR A MOTHER’S DAY OR EASTER BREAKFAST Yellow and purple are two colours that define spring to me. Think of all the creamy-yellow daffodils and tulips, alongside hyacinths and grape hyacinths in those inky purples. There is also an early purple iris that flowers in spring, like the one pictured here, and it’s brilliant when you want a taller stem for arrangements or bouquets as it adds height yet still feels delicate. This spring flower arrangement looks particularly inviting styled on the gorgeous wooden table from Furniture and Choice with a delicious-looking breakfast spread – perfect inspiration for Mother’s Day or Easter. Styling Takeaway Tall-stemmed spring flowers like tulips, daffodils and iris work beautifully as they add structure. Whether you display them alone or mixed with other flowers, they give the arrangement or bouquet height and shape. Photo credit: Furniture and Choice https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/69ba756e-54df-4d49-885e-ba88b6393b7a/styling-with-spring-flowers-vase-potted-tate-a-tate.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - STYLING WITH POTTED SPRING BULBS This gorgeous pot of miniature bulbs - including Tête-à-tête and Bridal Crown daffodils - is an eco-friendly way to bring spring flowers into your home. I do the same with hyacinths and grape hyacinths, then plant them in the garden once they have finished flowering. Because the flowers open up at slightly different times, the display can easily last about a month or longer. Just remove any blooms that are over, and when the last have finished flowering you can plant them in the garden straight away or leave the bulbs, with the soil removed, in a dry place like a shed or garage, ready to replant the following year. Styling takeaway You can buy potted bulbs like these in regular plastic pots and then repot them in a pot of your choice. Alternatively, once you’ve found your pot, you can add soil and plant your own bulbs. For that natural look, add a little moss on top of the soil. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/57d0bccf-539f-4ed1-8315-1ebb15b05b1b/styling-with-spring-flowers-and-latterns.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - STYLING WITH BRANCHES FROM FLOWERING TREES As well as shrubs, you can use branches from flowering trees such as lilac, which is one of those full, blousy spring florals that is also fragrant. Lilac is a favourite of mine, so I was delighted to find a few different colours growing in the garden of this home I styled and photographed - the feature later appeared in 25 Beautiful Homes and Wohnen. When I’m styling for a shoot, I’ll often place flowers - or even just a branch of greenery or a single bloom - in almost every corner, which instantly elevates the space. This Moroccan trunk in a corner of the living room is the perfect example of how a simple vase with a few branches turned what could have photographed as a rather neutral corner into a gorgeous vignette. Styling Takeaway As well as the obvious places like dining tables and coffee tables, think about corners where you wouldn’t normally place flowers. A little greenery from a branch or even a single flower can really make a space feel more considered. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0a2e2aad-8bbc-44cd-a30c-0df29b9cb552/styling-with-spring-flowers-wallpaper.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - SPRING BLOSSOMS STYLED NEXT TO A BLOSSOM TREE MURAL In a future article, I’ll share my favourite finds of floral-inspired interiors - wallpaper, fabric, and other pieces that bring botanicals indoors, so I thought I’d give you a sneak preview here. The bedroom pictured here features a beautiful spring blossom tree chinoiserie mural design by Feathr, which adds a delicate, artistic touch to the space. It transforms the bed into a focal point, with the mural acting almost like an oversized headboard. To take the look further, tall cherry blossom branches have been styled on the nightstands/bedside tables to echo the blossoms in the mural, making a real statement. Styling Takeaway You can bring flowers into your home in a more permanent way, like this mural. If you prefer something more interchangeable, you could dress the bed with floral bed linen or simply add a floral throw or cushion as a nod to botanical style. Photo: Feathr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ca8e8adf-dfdc-434e-b545-3ff81529b11a/styling-with-spring-flowers-Easteroutdoor-table-.jpg BLOG - Styling with Spring Flowers - vase arrangements that look effortlessly chic - MEADOW-STYLED OUTDOOR TABLE WITH SPRING FLOWERS As we are getting close to Easter, which makes me think of sunshine, longer days, and of course spring flowers, I thought I’d end this article with an image of a beautifully decorated outdoor table. Along with the delicious cakes, the table has been styled with meadow flower plates, napkins, and raffia mats from Talking Tables. The flowers are simply gorgeous, displayed in jugs to add height with a mix literally picked from the garden and chosen to match the tableware. The flowers include fresh green viburnum, matricaria chamomile, and foxgloves. There are also recycled glass bud vases dotted around the table with sprigs of daisies. Styling Takeaway To create a spring table like this one, start with the tablecloth. Washed linen looks stylish but still relaxed. Then choose a tall jug or vase and fill it with natural-looking flowers from your garden. If you don’t have any actual flowers growing, you can use branches of blossom or shrubs like the viburnum pictured here to give that gathered feel. Photo credit: Talking Tables https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/from-fallen-trees-to-forever-pieces-handcrafted-furniture-salvaged-urban-trees monthly 0.5 2026-02-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - From Fallen Trees to Forever Pieces: Handcrafted furniture and home decor from salvaged urban trees - Interior Styling Blog for Real Homes: Ideas, Advice & Inspiration Hi, I’m Sandra, this blog is about interior styling for real homes. If you love interiors and want your home to feel stylish, pulled together, yet still personal, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll be sharing styling advice to help you edit, layer, and finish your home with confidence, alongside articles on what’s happening in the interiors world — from design events to colour stories - so you get the full picture. I also take you on tours of beautifully styled homes from around the world, offering inspiration and styling ideas to steal for your own space. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. In today’s post, I explore how fallen urban trees are salvaged and turned into beautifully handcrafted, timeless and sustainable pieces of furniture and décor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/62ac0618-47cd-484e-a37f-9d19cd3a9a4b/From-fallen-trees-to-forever-pieces.jpg BLOG - From Fallen Trees to Forever Pieces: Handcrafted furniture and home decor from salvaged urban trees Photo credit: all photography Steve Nyman https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/93642f23-1adb-4e10-951e-1fa22d2b735c/From-fallen-trees-to-forever-pieces-founder-wooden-table.png BLOG - From Fallen Trees to Forever Pieces: Handcrafted furniture and home decor from salvaged urban trees - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/27966d47-1ae2-4183-86db-0a17ef6dfefc/From-fallen-trees-to-forever-pieces-charred-centre-piece.jpg BLOG - From Fallen Trees to Forever Pieces: Handcrafted furniture and home decor from salvaged urban trees - CHARRED CENTRE PIECE This stunning décor centrepiece has been charred to create that deep ebony tone. Charring is an ancient Japanese technique, known traditionally as Yaki Sugi (also called Shou Sugi Ban), where pieces from specific wood types are carefully burned to produce a striking black, textured finish. Steve had a few of these centrepieces on display when he was approached by an interior design company to make something special for a London home. The piece became a treasured focal point in the client’s dining room. For Steve, there’s a real meaning behind these centrepieces. ‘My speciality is my eye - sourcing the wood, digging it out and visualising a usage,’ says Steve. ‘In fact, these pieces are a result of that; found in areas of fallen trees, where I saved each one from being destroyed.’ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5f45c669-ce71-4f0b-b50c-d79811992887/From-fallen-trees-to-forever-pieces-black-centre-piece-and-side-table.jpg BLOG - From Fallen Trees to Forever Pieces: Handcrafted furniture and home decor from salvaged urban trees - ORGANIC SIDE TABLE Made from organic spalted wood, this popular side table is unique in texture and pattern. It’s the ideal size to place next to a chair for your coffee cup, book or a simple vase of flowers. It even doubles as a seat, perfect for when you need that extra chair. The black charred piece on the left of the shelf was crafted from Steve’s finds over the years and finished using the charring method to enhance its natural texture. On the right is one of Steve’s wood-and-ceramic-combination designs in the shape of an oak charred bowl paired with handmade ceramic servers - a striking contrast between earthy tactile timber and smooth white ceramics. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f486908f-c751-41e4-b65d-16a6f0d0bf91/From-fallen-trees-to-forever-pieces-Sculpture+bench.jpg BLOG - From Fallen Trees to Forever Pieces: Handcrafted furniture and home decor from salvaged urban trees - STATEMENT BENCH Photo credit The 1 hotel Miami South Beach photographed by Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/14fffcbe-7f89-4cc1-9649-5a487cd41b2d/From-fallen-trees-to-forever-pieces-driftwood-garden-furniture.jpg BLOG - From Fallen Trees to Forever Pieces: Handcrafted furniture and home decor from salvaged urban trees - DRIFTWOOD OUTDOOR SEATING I’ve always admired the pale tone and weathered texture of driftwood, and once found a large branch on the beach that I turned into a decorative coat rack. Together with the wood from fallen trees, Steve creates furniture from rare pieces of driftwood. For the stunning set of outdoor furniture pictured here, he worked with naturally sculptural forms. The seating was commissioned by an interior designer for a garden in the South of France with a brief for chairs, sun loungers and sofas made from driftwood. Luckily, Steve had the perfect pieces in his workshop. With their irregular shapes and pale shades, the designs make a striking statement and are finished with textured white seat and back cushions, and a few casually placed, soft-toned throw cushions, for that sophisticated, coastal feel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8b0cc8c2-a4c5-43c2-ba01-68f72f778d92/From-fallen-trees-to-forever-pieces-combination-piece.png BLOG - From Fallen Trees to Forever Pieces: Handcrafted furniture and home decor from salvaged urban trees - COMBINATION PIECES - PAIRING DRIFTWOOD WITH CERAMIC REPLICAS OF SHELLS Creating a synergy between materials was at the very start of Steve’s journey, and that fascination with driftwood and shells led to this gorgeous combination. Steve uses porcelain ceramics to echo the shape of shells and crafts sculptural pieces that are functional too. The two materials pair beautifully together, the crisp white contrasting with the texture of the wood. Steve has made several designs that marry the two, including the bowl pictured here, which is actually two bowls in one. The ceramic element acts as an insert, doubling up as a second bowl. The same concept has been applied to serving spoons and bowls in different shapes and sizes that are all rather special. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f751f18b-20f7-4a11-9478-28d098ea47c0/From-fallen-trees-to-forever-pieces-tree-trunk-table.jpg BLOG - From Fallen Trees to Forever Pieces: Handcrafted furniture and home decor from salvaged urban trees - RUSTIC SIDE TABLE This rustic-style side table pictured here was commissioned for a house in the Cotswolds, in the UK. The brief was to source a piece of wood from a fallen tree that would flow naturally with its surroundings. Steve found the perfect organic form and shaped it from one solid piece. In this living room, the side table works beautifully alongside the layered textiles and earthy finishes, from the lime plaster walls and distressed lamp to the tactile linen of the sofa. The overall scheme feels effortlessly serene - with the natural texture of the wood and the other elements kept in soft, muted tones. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0d2212a0-df81-4138-8350-af4a4c3a3adb/From-fallen-trees-to-forever-pieces-tree-of-life.jpg BLOG - From Fallen Trees to Forever Pieces: Handcrafted furniture and home decor from salvaged urban trees - TREE OF LIFE SHELVING The 'Tree of Life' was designed for a yacht as an impressive shelving unit with real wow factor. Commissioned by a yacht specialist interior design company, the brief was completely aligned with Steve’s ethos as the owners were also drawn to nature, sustainability and raw materials. Steve was asked to make this shelving unit from reclaimed trees and keep the timber as natural and untouched as possible. Being on a boat, it also needed to be practical, so Steve added additional pieces to keep the displayed items secure when the yacht is in motion. In addition to the shelving, Steve also crafted a headboard and bedside tables for the owner’s suite, together with large sculptural bowls, staircase rails, and a whole collection of serving platters - bringing bespoke, organic woodwork into multiple areas of the boat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/eb33027d-d40a-465d-a5db-740af7e83560/From-fallen-trees-to-forever-pieces-tree-side-table.jpg BLOG - From Fallen Trees to Forever Pieces: Handcrafted furniture and home decor from salvaged urban trees - BLOSSOM TREE TABLES These blossom tables, pictured here, are one of Steve’s specialities, and they look stunning positioned beside luxurious green velvet chairs and an elegant pale grey rug - for that rugged meets refined look. ‘I find many types of wood from the fallen trees for these tables and cut and shape accordingly,’ Steve explains. ‘These were for a client who wanted them to be really unique. They already had an incredible shape but I was particularly pleased with these as we worked hard on leaving parts of the bark on in certain areas for an even more natural and unusual finish.’ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/17872923-a08e-4b28-9684-84f8648a9df1/From-fallen-trees-to-forever-pieces-black-Charred-coffee-table.jpg BLOG - From Fallen Trees to Forever Pieces: Handcrafted furniture and home decor from salvaged urban trees - CHARRED COFFEE TABLE This circular coffee table was made from reclaimed oak beams. The client was very particular in what she wanted in a design, so she gave Steve the exact dimensions, and he crafted it entirely by hand using the oak beams which he had collected over time. Having shaped them into a perfect circle, Steve created a gorgeous coffee table that had the character of the reclaimed wood. Because the living room already had several different wood tones, Steve decided to char the table so it would tie in seamlessly with the other black furniture in the room and enhance the texture of the wood further. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/vintage-filled-small-home-tour monthly 0.5 2026-02-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - Vintage-Filled Small Home Tour: Styling with Reclaimed and Repurposed pieces. - Interior Styling Blog for Real Homes: Ideas, Advice & Inspiration Hi, I’m Sandra, this blog is about interior styling for real homes. If you love interiors and want your home to feel stylish, pulled together, yet still personal, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll be sharing practical styling advice to help you edit, layer, and finish your home with confidence, alongside articles on what’s happening in the interiors world — from design events to colour stories - so you get the full picture. I also take you on tours of beautifully styled homes from around the world, offering inspiration and styling ideas to steal for your own space. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. Today’s post takes you on a tour of a small but truly unique abode, created by interior designer Helena Impett and built in place of a garage. The interior is filled with gorgeous vintage finds, salvaged materials and cleverly repurposed pieces. Read on to find out more. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/94dca1f6-5907-4658-ae33-948d39734c1e/Vintage-and-repurposed-pieces-home-tour.jpg BLOG - Vintage-Filled Small Home Tour: Styling with Reclaimed and Repurposed pieces. - A VINTAGE & PREVOLED BIJOU INTERIOR Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ed5e7b1d-04fb-4a5d-8598-0b87f5f25631/vintage-home-tour-designer-and-bathroom.png BLOG - Vintage-Filled Small Home Tour: Styling with Reclaimed and Repurposed pieces. - Make it stand out Interior designer, Helena Impett, pictured here in the bedroom of her own project, The Little Gate House, has a clear design ethos: to create a connection between modern living and nature, where both must coexist. She brings organic elements into her interior design through materials like wood, linen, wool and jute, while embracing biophilic design - letting the outdoors in with natural light, earthy textures, and houseplants. But what really sets Helena apart is her talent for sourcing the perfect vintage or antique piece that finishes off a space in the most unique, meaningful and sustainable way. Take this powder room in a New Forest cottage shown here, that Helena had already transformed with an exquisite wallpaper, striking green panelling and a gorgeous basin. She felt the room needed a focal point, and found it in the form of an unusual vintage mirror that fitted perfectly in between the two wall sconces and featured a bird which paired with the wallpaper design. To unearth such pieces, Helena scours the antique and vintage markets, eBay, and online vintage stores such as 1st Dibs on the hunt for that perfect piece. From salvaged floorboards to vintage French shutters, it’s no surprise that The Little Gate House is filled with gems that bring authentic style to every corner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a629310c-019e-4a14-9dec-2cca3ce1f09d/Vintage-filled-home-original-garage.JPG BLOG - Vintage-Filled Small Home Tour: Styling with Reclaimed and Repurposed pieces. - OUT WITH THE OLD GARAGE AND IN WITH THE NEW LITTLE GATE HOUSE Helena had a contact who, to her delight, was keen to take the garage off her hands. Even better, he offered to swap it for the three sets of vintage French shutters which were the exact style Helena had hoped she’d find for The Little Gate House. The garage was removed in a single piece by tractor, travelling from Helena’s property along roads, through fields and eventually to the sea where its new owner converted it into a boathouse. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/eb0c48a7-0c2c-44b1-8821-c52ea646d4bd/vintage-filled-kitchen.jpg BLOG - Vintage-Filled Small Home Tour: Styling with Reclaimed and Repurposed pieces. - LAYERED LIGHTING WITH VINTAGE AND PRE-LOVED PIECES As an interior designer, Helena sees lighting as a crucial feature, and it’s apparent in every room in The Little Gate House. She mixes modern light fixtures with vintage pieces, including a vintage floor lamp and, handed down from her mother, the soft green glass chandelier, pictured here, suspended from the vaulted ceiling. Her approach to layered lighting ensures that illumination is at different levels throughout the room, especially important in homes with high or vaulted ceilings. The custom-made kitchen complete with a breakfast bar is another great example of Helena’s styling, where she has also mixed old with new. The gorgeous bar stools were pre-loved, given to her by clients, while the windowpane mirror was a new purchase chosen to reflect light back into the kitchen. Styling Takeaway Layer your lighting - mixing wall sconces, floor lamps, hanging pendants, as well as task lights in rooms like kitchens and bathrooms, to create a well-balanced lighting scheme. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7b041ffb-11d7-45a4-b122-054e33ceed4d/vintage-filled-living-room.jpg BLOG - Vintage-Filled Small Home Tour: Styling with Reclaimed and Repurposed pieces. - SALVAGED WOODEN FLOORS FOR THAT TIME-WORN LOOK Photo credit The 1 hotel Miami South Beach photographed by Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c8010697-c970-4fc7-8369-0b753fb29344/vintage-filled-living-room.jpg BLOG - Vintage-Filled Small Home Tour: Styling with Reclaimed and Repurposed pieces. - RUSTIC MEETS REFINED WITH REUPHOLSTERED PIECES When it comes to upholstery, Helena likes to work with different textures and isn’t afraid of adding pops of colour. She’s also keen to use well-designed old furniture and reupholster it rather than let it end up in landfill. For the living area, Helena sourced a second-hand kilim on eBay and used it to upholster an old ottoman, turning it into an eye-catching focal point in the room. She’s also given a new lease of life to a worn sofa by reupholstering it in a high-quality blue linen. With a mix of fabrics in velvet and linen, the effect is chic and sophisticated. This look is all about mixing rustic with refined. The original floors are rugged and characterful, and the jute rug anchors the furniture, while allowing the rich textiles and colours to stand out. Styling Takeaways Look in reclamation yards, markets, vintage shops and thrift stores for old furniture you can reupholster. Think outside the box, like Helena did, using a kilim rug as upholstery for a unique one-of-a-kind ottoman. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/130932aa-bba0-4a61-822a-b35cf80e75bb/vintage-filled-kitchen+%282%29.jpg BLOG - Vintage-Filled Small Home Tour: Styling with Reclaimed and Repurposed pieces. - VINTAGE PAIRS WITH CONTEMPORARY IN THE KITCHEN This wood and glass-fronted cabinet, pictured here, is one of Helena’s standout vintage finds. It brings something original to the contemporary style kitchen, teaming old with new beautifully. An open cabinet, like this, is perfect for displaying attractive glassware and ceramics, offering the benefits of open shelving without the dusting. What also makes this area more special are the trailing plants hanging from the mezzanine balcony above, created from an old ladder she found in the garage. It’s another vintage touch and a natural material that blends effortlessly into the scheme. Styling Takeaways Glass cabinets and shelves displaying glassware, chopping boards, plants, as well as other kitchen and home decor pieces, can be a more stylish alternative to long runs of solid cabinetry. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0963fc7e-c9f3-4f89-a891-ce50bbbc774d/small-space-styling-cupboard-bed.jpg BLOG - Vintage-Filled Small Home Tour: Styling with Reclaimed and Repurposed pieces. - ROMANTIC COCOONING CUPBOARD BED I have always loved a cupboard bed - I even built one in the guest room of my last house. There’s something about that cocoon-like feel that transports guests into a dreamy, cosy experience. Framed by two sets of curtains - pure linen with delicate sheers in front, Helena has styled the bed with sumptuous velvet cushions paired with crisp white linen, taking a cupboard bed to a whole new level. Opulent touches, like the brass reading lights, perfectly complement the vintage brass rail. But what makes this space so special is the juxtaposition of materials - plush velvet contrasting against the rugged floor, delicate sheers softening the space, and metallic pieces adding sheen. The whole look is one of understated elegance. Styling Takeaways Mix textures, combining rough with smooth. Add some form of metallic to each setting for a touch of luxurious sheen. For more bedroom inspiration, check out my post on Stylish Bedroom Ideas for your Bedroom refresh. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/27e6be5a-5e6a-479a-b01e-23754bf0c212/vintage-filled-small-home.jpg BLOG - Vintage-Filled Small Home Tour: Styling with Reclaimed and Repurposed pieces. - VISTA THROUGH THE LOOKING-GLASS Other details, such as a chest of drawers and an ornate mirror, are unique finds Helena included to add even more charm to the bedroom. The pendant light, as shown here, is from Pooky and plays a key role in the look, introducing print to the bedroom. Although I was surprised to find it was new, the ornate mirror, which is particularly stunning, could easily be mistaken for another vintage piece. Styling Takeaway Add a vintage mirror to a room and it instantly makes it charming. If you have scoured the vintage markets and stores with no luck, you can buy a new model designed to look old. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/dddc44a9-9f95-41fa-bf91-99b79332a119/small-space-styling-preloved-bedroom.jpg BLOG - Vintage-Filled Small Home Tour: Styling with Reclaimed and Repurposed pieces. - SALVAGED LADDER TO MEZZANINE SEATING AREA With its vaulted ceiling, the design of the building allowed room for a small mezzanine above the bedroom, pictured here. With vistas over the kitchen and living room, as well as out to the terrace, it serves as a cosy reading nook, reachable by a ladder. Along with the one used above the kitchen, this ladder had also been sitting in the garage under cobwebs for years and was the perfect height to reach the mezzanine. There are two other original pieces in the bedroom that bring in character - an original window from the main house, now an internal window and architectural feature, and an old luggage holder from a railway carriage, which Helena has repurposed as a clothes rack. Styling Takeaway Repurposed pieces bring a sense of history to a room and really give a space a unique feel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/dfab2b95-6579-421b-87f9-e134fe65002b/vintage-filled-bathroom.jpg BLOG - Vintage-Filled Small Home Tour: Styling with Reclaimed and Repurposed pieces. - VINTAGE BATHROOM MIRROR FOR ADDED STYLE So many areas in Helena’s interior feel like you are stepping back in time, like the Art Deco tiles and the traditional pedestal basin, pictured here. As a finishing touch, Helena has added a vintage mirror to the bathroom. A vintage-style mirror can work even in the most contemporary bathrooms. If you are unable to source an original, there are excellent replicas that have antique-effect glass which has been distressed to give that time-worn look. Styling Takeaway An attractive product bottle instantly elevates a basin, making it feel styled, not purely functional. And if you can, add a small vase with a single flower, like Helena has here, to make it look even more special. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/864e09e4-f00a-4fbe-a8f6-4a09384537ad/Vintage-filled-bijou+home-bathroom.jpg BLOG - Vintage-Filled Small Home Tour: Styling with Reclaimed and Repurposed pieces. - CLASSIC BATHROOM WITH ORIGINAL CISTERN The bathroom is no exception when it comes to using reclaimed pieces. In an outside toilet, Helena salvaged the original high-level toilet cistern and turned it into an interesting feature, pictured here, in the bathroom. To contrast with the toilet and traditional basin, she chose black and white geometric-style tiles on the floor and soft green glazed tiles in the shower. Styling Takeaway In a bathroom, don’t be afraid to mix traditional-style basins and toilets with modern showers and tiles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ff014764-3476-47b4-9972-c7329ee7ab21/garage-conversion-terrace.jpg BLOG - Vintage-Filled Small Home Tour: Styling with Reclaimed and Repurposed pieces. - OUTDOOR COURTYARD WITH SEATING AREA The connection to nature is always central to Helena’s design, so it was important to include an outside space and, luckily, there was just enough room at the back of the kitchen to create one. She designed a small courtyard with timber decking as a perfect spot for friends and guests staying to have an outside space separate from her own garden. Just like indoors, Helena chose not to buy brand new furniture and, instead, she found an old wrought iron table from a vintage store and paired this with two simple outdoor wooden chairs. She brought the space to life with attractive planters filled with olive trees and other outdoor greenery. Styling Takeaway Vintage outdoor furniture not only brings character to your outside space, it was also made to last and has stood the test of time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2d55488a-3608-44f7-8d2f-f6211906a52e/garage-conversion-interior-tour.jpg.jpg BLOG - Vintage-Filled Small Home Tour: Styling with Reclaimed and Repurposed pieces. - THE LITTLE GATE HOUSE EXTERIOR From the front of the property, the new building nestles next to the main house in place of the old garage, but it extends further at the back. As it is situated in a seaside village in the South of England and close to the New Forest, Helena has many guests to stay and also lets it out as a romantic getaway. Architecturally, the new building has the same shaped roof to echo the look of the house and replicate the original garage. The building was clad with black timber and terracotta roof tiles to match the style of the house. Helena has also added exterior lights as another stylish element and to complete the overall look of the exterior. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/home-decor-items-to-style-your-home monthly 0.5 2026-03-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - Interior Styling Blog for Real Homes: Ideas, Advice & Inspiration Hi, I’m Sandra, this blog is about interior styling for real homes. If you love interiors and want your home to feel stylish, pulled together, yet still personal, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll be sharing practical styling advice to help you edit, layer, and finish your home with confidence, alongside articles on what’s happening in the interiors world — from design events to colour stories - so you get the full picture. I also take you on tours of beautifully styled homes from around the world, offering inspiration and styling ideas to steal for your own space. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. In today’s post, I’ll be sharing the key home décor pieces that add those all-important finishing touches to turn your home into a place with style and personality. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/10530b66-f6c5-4cf2-90c8-49839336e07d/Key-styling-items-Katie-Fischer-interior.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished Photo credit: Katie Fischer https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ce753015-8ef4-4921-8643-66a9e1862daa/Key-home-decor-items-styling-with-vases-and-branches.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH VASES AND VESSELS This round ceramic vase, styled with a single branch of pussy willow, is a great example of how a vessel doesn’t need flowers to make an impact, as branches can be just as stunning. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst for Stijlvol Wonen magazine feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9958924f-49e5-4a57-851b-3f615efd8db9/Key-interior-styling-pieces-pot-with-branches.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH LARGE BRANCHES This stunning rustic, clay tapered pot really makes a statement on this wooden table, both by Nkuku, especially when filled with a generous branch of olive leaves. It’s a great reminder that you don’t need to hold back, as placing a large branch in your vase or vessel not only brings in greenery, it adds height and drama to a room. Photo credit: Nkuku https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b5bbeb2e-b76f-492d-a5c9-c69a83201281/key-home-decor-glass-vases.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH GLASS VASES IN DIFFERENT DESIGNS While many of us are choosing stone and ceramic vases, glass vases remain popular due to their timeless appeal. These vases by German brand Dekoria show just how varied glass designs can be, from contemporary shapes to the more classic. In soft, muted tones, as well as a multi-coloured design, they work beautifully together on the side table, creating a cohesive display. To achieve a curated look, you can group vases by material, whether that’s glass, ceramic, or hand-thrown stone or clay pieces. Photo credit: Dekoria https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/33b726ae-326b-4065-a143-2c47e953e1b0/Home-decor-items+-+vessel-+with-green-plant.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - DISPLAYING VESSELS WITH PLANTS This contemporary pot looks stunning with a plant as a standalone piece on a console table, but it would work just as well on a mantle or sideboard/credenza. A large vessel, especially when paired with a plant, looks impressive alone, but could also be styled in a vignette with other items. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst at The Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a2adde37-57a2-4136-be83-1d6d220b7298/Home+-decor+-items+-+decorative+-vessels.JPG BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING STAND ALONE VASES & VESSELS The two deep-toned terracotta vessels have beautiful sculptural shapes and are a great example of how vases and vessels don’t always need to be filled with flowers, branches, or greenery. I photographed this attractive pair at design week to show that, grouped together, even numbers can still work brilliantly when styling home decor. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst at The Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0c4d093d-2d73-4744-a93e-63d6f5758680/Key-home-decor-items-rugs-hollyxtisca.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH RUGS Rugs are my number one interior item - they anchor furniture, define a space, and add colour, warmth and style. Pictured here is a wool-cotton rug from Holly Becker’s Purist rug collection, inspired by the Scandi-Japandi aesthetic. Photo credit: Holly Becker Decor8 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6ddb0464-8ac9-4006-af56-f64cc128bdb6/Key-interior-styling-rugs-hollyxtisca.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - BRINGING IN YOUR INTERIOR STYLE WITH A RUG There are so many rug designs to suit different interior styles and personal tastes. Take the gorgeous chequered-style wool-linen rug pictured here, designed by interior guru Holly Becker. Inspired by the calm, minimalist Scandi-Japandi aesthetic, it’s part of her sensory Purist rug collection. Holly has captured the look beautifully, pairing the rug with a chair, lamps, books, vases and vessels - all in a pure white palette - creating a serene and cohesive space. Photo credit: Holly Becker (photography and styling) Decor8 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f3d2ba73-db23-4706-b6fb-fe82acb5bb5a/key-home-decor-pieces-rugs.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - INTRODUCING COLOUR WITH A RUG This exquisite yellow-toned silk rug from The Rug Society brings this living room to life, creating a striking contrast with the dramatic deep teal walls. When redesigning a room, start by choosing your rug first, as this will act as the foundation for your colour palette, soft furnishings and home decor. Photo credit: Rug’Society https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/939bbe11-cdf7-4075-ad1e-9b77fa4c607b/key-home-decor-bedroom-rug.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING RUGS IN THE BEDROOM Photo: Sandra van Aalst Although many people still prefer wall-to-wall carpet in the bedroom, rugs are becoming more popular. If you want to have a rug in your bedroom, place it close to the top of the bed so you can step straight onto it, like this beautiful contemporary rug by rug designer Erik Lindstrom, which frames the bed and adds style and comfort to the room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/56f57739-f9c5-4472-b2fd-422ddb8b3f8a/key-home-decor-pieces-circular-rugs+copy.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH CIRCULAR RUGS Photo: Sandra van Aalst A circular rug can work well in many spaces, as it adds interest and, in particular, breaks up a square or rectangular room. Vintage-style rugs, like the one pictured here in a hallway in my house, have become increasingly popular, bringing an authentic touch to many different types of interior schemes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b1c44109-4864-4826-8b49-6b18661a2db5/Home-decor-items+-outdoor-+rugs.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING OUTDOORS WITH RUGS Photo: Sandra van Aalst Outdoor rugs, such as the rug pictured here on my balcony, can withstand most weather conditions and will instantly transform a terrace, balcony, or patio into another room. They also serve as an excellent option for use under a dining table since they are washable and resistant to stains. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f0695868-8afa-44b2-982f-52fc4d3342bb/Key-styling-pieces-wall-art.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH ART An interior rarely feels complete without some form of artwork - it introduces colour, texture, expression, and atmosphere to a space. Photo credit: Desenio https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/970b52b9-f00d-4768-8d6a-26894226bba4/key-home-decor-art-on-console.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - ART STLYED ON SURFACES Framed art is perfect for leaning against the wall on a surface such as a console, sideboard/credenza, or mantelpiece. The frame adds height to the vignette, breaking up the horizontal line of the surface and drawing the attention upwards. In this case, it complements the tones of the books and vessels displayed on the table and pairs beautifully with the marble and mango wood contemporary console by Atkin and Thyme. Photo credit: Atkin and Thyme https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1d193aaa-edbc-443c-804c-28fdb7b34437/key-home-decor-art-on-shelves.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - ART STYLED ON SHELVING Art can look fantastic on shelving - and the kitchen is no exception. In this space, food and drink-themed prints by Desenio have been layered among attractive kitchen items such as a chopping board, utensils and various vessels, to create a visually rich and interesting display. Just like the framed artwork styled on the console in the previous image, the artwork here adds height, interest and colour, echoing the tones of the kitchen cabinetry for a stylish and cohesive look. Photo credit: Desenio https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a25f769b-eac4-4a74-9816-f2515d28ade6/home-decor-styling-+items-cushions.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH CUSHIONS Throw or scatter cushions, pillows, or simply cushions, as I call them, are one of the easiest styling items to define your interior style, inject colour, and instantly refresh a room. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst at the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1af8e277-8ff4-4f8e-b0f0-d5f8b08b030d/key-home-decor-pieces-cushions.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - BRINGING IN COLOUR AND STRUCTURE WITH CUSHIONS I have recently invested in a new curved sofa, pictured here, which sits beautifully on a terracotta-toned rug. Because it is an off-white linen and low-backed, I wanted cushions that would tie in colour-wise with the rug, add texture and a touch of height and structure to the sofa. After much searching, I eventually found two large velvet cushions with fringe detailing and a black and off-white patterned one to add contrast. Not only do they reintroduce the terracotta tone, they bring in a rich, tactile element and enhance the shape of the sofa, providing height and definition in key spots. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ae39d5e1-5015-43ad-a279-b7a32ad95342/key-home-decor-pieces-cushions.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING CUSHIONS ON A BED Photo: Sandra van Aalst for 25 Beautiful Homes and Wonen magazine In this rustic-style living room, we styled the sofa for a shoot for 25 Beautiful Homes by using two different types of velvet and linen cushions. These bring in a necessary softness and luxurious contrast to the ruggedness of the stone wall and flagstone floor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d5bd1e36-9e65-4479-b03a-b8ee0643007a/Key-interior-styling-pieces-outdoor-cushions.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH OUTDOOR CUSHIONS Photo: Sandra van Aalst Outdoor cushions, like the ones featured here, now come in a variety of colours, styles, and prints, and can really make your outdoor seating area feel like another room. Most are showerproof but may not withstand all weather conditions. I’m in the UK, so I tend to bring my outdoor cushions indoors in the winter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ef4e2082-a450-4cbe-bc3b-74c9203fed4d/home-decor-styling-+items-wall-mirrors.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH MIRRORS Mirrors can open up a space and reflect light, like the mirrors in this image by Drench, where two arched mirrors have been placed vertically, doubling up as wall art. Placed above a wooden bench styled with contemporary pots, vases, and vessels, the arrangement looks intentional and stylish. Photo credit: Drench https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/41787f56-ca92-4b21-a814-574ffd5fa8d1/key-home-decor-pieces-mirrors.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH LIVING SPACE MIRRORS Mirrors can be the striking focal point in a room, especially oversized designs, like the stunning Iberis mirror by Arteriors pictured here. Its sculptural, rope-style frame makes a bold statement in this living room. Mirrors work beautifully styled in a nook, above a fireplace, or positioned on a wall above or close to the sofa to create a feature and enhance the light in the room. Photo credit: Arteriors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/134e2890-0d2b-47e5-bae5-3029f81bc90f/Key-interior-styling-pieces-mirror-hallway.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - ENTRYWAY MIRROR STYLING This mirror is the centrepiece of a beautifully styled entryway. Rather than just hanging a mirror on its own, it works so well as part of a vignette, like this mirror by Oka, displayed above a console table. I have an extra-large round metal mirror in my own hallway, which instantly elevates the space. Positioned above a console, styled with plants and decorative pots, it creates an interesting vista and helps to brighten what is otherwise quite a dark area. Photo credit: Oka https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7b3c15e3-f875-4fd0-a210-3e37b3787af3/Key-home-decor-items-vintage-+mirrors.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH VINTAGE MIRRORS Vintage mirrors can be found in thrift or second hand shops and at markets and can look incredibly effective in the right setting. The mirror pictured here was a vintage, gold-framed piece I discovered and revamped with black boat paint. The high-sheen finish gave it a modern vibe, which contrasted with the rustic basin and wooden countertop. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst for Wonen Landerlijke Stijl and Inside Out magazine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ec0a6442-34e1-4f80-b63c-c2fbc9d520b9/home-decor-styling-+items-small-grass-mirrors.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH SMALLER MIRRORS In a small nook under my stairs, I positioned two straw-framed mirrors of different sizes above a low, rustic console table to serve as a focal point in what was previously an awkward space. The mirrors help reflect light and make more of a feature of the area. For added impact and to enliven a dull corner, you could display mirrors in groups of three or five, which create a visually balanced look. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/27aae329-d7b3-4789-81c7-07c3b3e1af81/Key-interior-styling-items-throws-bedroom.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH THROWS Throws, also known as throw blankets, are smaller than a regular blanket and effortlessly chic. They’re a stylish way to accessorise a sofa, chair, bed, or even outdoor furniture. Photo credit: Darlings of Chelsea https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3ec824d7-a52d-450c-9cee-442f44be6732/Home-decor-styling-+items+-+throws.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING THE SOFA WITH A THROW Available in a variety of colours, fabrics, and patterns, throws, like the gorgeous green one pictured here from Loaf, can easily complement your interior design style. Whether it’s a plaid wool throw for a country style or pure cashmere for a luxurious, minimalist feel, or a tufted design for a more bohemian vibe, there are endless options. Photo credit: Loaf https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8024629a-5fa9-4809-ae9a-250e6c5c4d9c/key-home-decor-outdoor-throws.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH THROWS OUTDOORS Don’t forget outside spaces, such as terraces or balconies, as throws, like the green one pictured here teams beautifully with the rattan outdoor furniture from The Cotswold Company. They can elevate the area by adding a cosy touch and are perfect for keeping you warm when the sun goes down. Photo credit: The Cotswold Company https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9d5fc6e8-3a4f-4296-b3bc-747d93f355d5/Stylish+living+room+with+throw.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH THROWS IN THE LIVING ROOM Serving as an easy way to refresh a space, throws can be swapped out with the seasons or whenever your style preferences evolve. I like to use throws, like the polka-dot one pictured here, to introduce pattern to an otherwise plain sofa. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/04c50a26-3c92-4303-a799-0565a5dc31f1/home-decor-styling-+items+-+artefacts.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH ARTEFACTS, FIGURINES AND PERSONAL FINDS Artefacts - whether heirlooms, personal treasures or vintage finds - add interest and bring a sense of history and individuality into your home. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst photographed for a house feature in Elle Decoration Country https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cb3fea44-bbc0-4dc7-95ae-49ad73e93b54/home-decor-styling-+items-figurine.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH FIGURINES This delicate sculpture of two dancers on the fireplace mantel was a treasured find during the homeowner’s vacation. The sculpture really stands out next to the tinted glass vessel and green trailing fern, creating an attractive vignette. Styling a vignette using odd numbers, such as three or five items, works well as it is often more balanced and visually pleasing to the eye. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5e6825e4-3021-4455-ba70-f68401691723/key-home-decor-artefacts.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH ARTEFACTS Both the turquoise beads and dish were special finds from the homeowner’s travels to Asia. The beads introduce a pop of colour, while the bronze dish adds a touch of subtle metallic sheen to the interior scheme, providing a contrast against the rustic wooden coffee table. The vase is also a vintage piece which, along with the hardback book, creates an interesting and balanced grouping. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6aa09c6a-58cf-472c-81ec-d178eff77dc2/home-decor-styling-items+-+hardback+-books.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH HARDBACK BOOKS Beautifully bound, large-format books are one of the most versatile styling items and can enhance the overall decor and be used in various areas of the home. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst at The Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9b41a45f-d9ad-4994-8616-f6cfc694d4a0/key-home-decor-pieces-books.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING BOOKS ON TABLES A stack of books laid flat on a surface creates visual interest and height variation, making it the ideal foundation for a vignette. Just like the stack pictured here on the nesting coffee tables by Cult Furniture, you can place an artefact or home décor piece on a pile of books to create a more styled look. Notice how the books echo the tones of the vase and candle, pulling the whole display together. Photo credit: Cult Furniture https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/df96c26c-a3df-464c-ae89-0f4916249dfc/key-home-decor-pieces-bookends.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH BOOKENDS Books on shelves instantly make a room feel curated and lived-in, and they help break up decorative objects so that shelves don’t look too contrived. You can find many unusual bookends, like the kicking legs in the image here from Rockett St George, that really add personality and style to the shelving. Photo credit: Rockett St George https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e2070aa8-065e-457d-b45f-ee19c4db9a82/Styling+with+books.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH COOKBOOKS As cookbooks are both functional and decorative, kitchens benefit from several on display, either on open shelving or worktops, as shown in the image here. Arrange your cookbooks upright or stacked in a pile, depending on how often you use them and how accessible you want them to be. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cd996336-a213-4e8e-ba5f-84181ac4e197/Key-interior-styling-pieces-lighting.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH LAMPS A beautiful table lamp is a key interior styling piece - not only functional, but essential for bringing ambient light and atmosphere into different areas in the home. Photo credit: Pooky https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/eb69fd1d-c5ff-4141-9a84-26f00124dfec/Home-+decor-+items+-+lamps.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH REGULAR TABLE LAMPS Lamps with organic textured bases, like the mango wood design from Atkin and Thyme pictured here, look particularly good teamed with a neutral linen-style lampshade. You could also team a wood base with a patterned shade. Photo credit: Atkin and Thyme https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ad487c7d-f4fc-4b91-b80d-558927082e56/key-home-decor-pieces-portable-lamps.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH PORTABLE LAMPS Photo: Pooky Lighting Portable lights that are rechargeable or battery operated are a recent addition and one of the most exciting home decor styling items as, due to not having any cables, you can use them on dining tables, coffee tables, and shelves, like the ones by Pooky Lighting pictured here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c9cdde22-6990-4424-88e1-2a3b4aa9a654/Key-interior-styling-pieces-+Rechargeable-Outdoor-Table-+Lamp.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING OUTDOOR LAMPS You can also style your exterior seating area with outdoor lamps which, like the one pictured here from Dar Lighting, are rechargeable and have an IP54 rating to ensure they can withstand the elements. These outdoor lamps can really transform your terrace or garden into an outdoor room. Photo credit: Dar Lighting https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e6d786a2-720a-450b-8885-5b987a6c0843/key-interior-styling-pieces-candles.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - CANDLES AND CANDLE HOLDERS Candles in an attractive holder make a great styling item, whether lit or not. Group a few together for maximum impact. Photo credit: Ivyline https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7af7060d-279a-4a9e-b6fe-e1a09b5ebe38/key-home-decor-pieces-candles.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING CANDLES IN A VIGNETTE Photo: Cox & Cox Candle holders like the ones by Cox & Cox pictured here, beautifully shaped to resemble an oil lamp, create a vignette. When grouped in varying tones of the same colour they can look very effective. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d104984d-0eab-480a-b53a-f41a61de571f/key-home-decor++scented-candles.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH SCENTED CANDLES Scented candles have become a home staple, offering both decorative appeal and gorgeous fragrance, like the elegant white ceramic pot by Heaven Scent that is filled with a rich blend of aromas. You can style scented candles on various surfaces and pair them with a diffuser, to enjoy a subtle scent even when the candle isn’t lit. Photo credit: Heaven Scent Incense Ltd https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4a359133-7c31-4495-85c4-1ba65d88680a/key-interior-styling-pieces-scented-candles.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH TEA LIGHTS Photo: Amaura London Scented candles have become a home staple, being both decorative, like the bronze one by Amaura here, as well as filling a room with a gorgeous scent. You can style them on a table next to a small plant or a diffuser, so there is a whiff of scent even when the candle is not lit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e544ac59-8673-4579-a4c5-0b778c176d14/Home+-Decor+-Styling+-Items+-+House+plants.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH HOUSEPLANTS Houseplants, such as the stunning Bird of Paradise plant featured here, can act as a striking focal point. With their green, sculptural leaves, they cannot fail to elevate the look and feel of any room. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/47adebf1-859e-4a20-9a56-8c863dde2c87/key-home-decor-faux-plants.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH FAUX PLANTS If you don’t have time to water, are away often, or simply don’t have green fingers, imitation plants have come on leaps and bounds. With some species, like the large Fiddle Leaf featured here, it’s now difficult to tell the difference. Also, some real plants don’t thrive in direct sunlight, so a faux plant is a good alternative for sunny spots. I believe imitation plants work best in a room when mixed with real plants, like in the image. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst photographed for a feature in Ideal Home magazine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/31fef1b5-7a77-48a1-99bd-e65ff4239e5e/Home-decor-styling-items-+house-plants.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH REAL PLANTS Photo: Minh Pham Design via Unsplash Sculptural plants, like the Snake plant pictured here, are extremely popular in magazine shoots as they look particularly stylish and are, therefore, a great prop. They are easy to maintain and are also easy to divide and turn into several smaller plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b258fff5-2bc3-45f2-9708-164678328106/key-interior-styling-pieces-bedroom-plants.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - DISPLAYING PLANTS IN THE BEDROOM Plants help bring oxygen to the bedroom, making them a healthy and stylish choice. If you don’t have a surface to display one, consider placing it in a large pot on the floor, like in the bedroom pictured here, where a large peace lily and bird of paradise are displayed in textured stone planters in varying heights. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a31ae5d4-531d-403a-b2fd-7f93835617ec/Home+-decor-styling-items+-+decorative-wooden-trays.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH DECORATIVE TRAYS A tray is an intentional way to group flowers, plants and décor together, and works on many surfaces. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst for Seasons Wonen, Modern Farmhouse and 25 Beautiful Homes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1fcf7f25-7496-4f44-8ac0-2637c0ce6d0e/key-decor-items-dining-table-trays.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH TRAYS IN THE KITCHEN AND DINING AREA This distressed metal tray pictured here adds a vintage touch to this contemporary space. I styled it with red flowers, a dish with chilli and a chilli plant, to introduce pops of red into the dining room, echoing the red in the artwork in the hallway. Displaying fruit or vegetables in the kitchen or dining area, like chillies, lemons or apples, adds colour and brings a fresh feel to the room. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f4735072-bebf-404c-93db-56e650561bcb/Key-home-decor-items-trays.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING TRAYS IN THE LIVING ROOM Trays can work beautifully on a coffee table, keeping items grouped together for a curated look. I styled the concrete tray with fresh white flowers paired with a white ceramic vessel to contrast with the rustic coffee table and create an elegant look. In a living room, a tray can be useful to tidy away practical items like coasters or remote controls. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/054f2e83-3978-42aa-adf7-95b72ee32757/key-home-decor-for-the-bedroom.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING THE BEDROOM WITH SOFT FURNISHINGS Bed linen is the foundation of a beautifully dressed, stylish bed. Photo credit: ILIV https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d9251cb2-268b-4bf9-94d7-dc6d02036bdc/Key-interior-styling-pieces-bed-line.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH PATTERNED BED LINEN You don’t need to stick to plain colours when choosing duvet covers and pillow cases. Printed bedlinen can turn your bed into a striking focal point and instantly refresh your bedroom. There are endless design options to choose from, ranging from bold prints and subtle stripes to the floral organic cotton set pictured here by The Secret Linen Store. Photo credit: The Secret Linen Store https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c74e1589-61d1-4541-981a-5ce0de1e7884/key-home-decor-bedroom-curtains.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - BEDROOM WINDOW TREATMENTS Curtains and blinds not only look gorgeous, they also soften a room and improve acoustics. I believe the bedroom is the most crucial space to get the choice of window treatment just right. If you prefer a darker environment for better quality sleep, as recommended by sleep experts, opt for curtains or blinds with blackout lining. If you love the look of delicate sheers, you could pair them with a blackout blind or hang them as a second layer on a separate track for function and style. Photo credit: Dunelm https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6b5fbec9-9878-4729-b9ac-7f8ebc888ba0/Key-interior-styling-items.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING ITEMS FOR THE KITCHEN Kitchens offer multiple surfaces - the island worktop, countertops, and shelves - that can be styled with a variety of items that are both decorative and functional. Photo credit: Wood Works Brighton https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8eb28e1a-8482-4877-bbb7-52179fe8fea9/Key-interior-styling-pieces-+tableware.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - STYLING WITH TABLEWARE Tableware has become a form of art, like the beautiful Kiln Blue collection of cups, plates, bowls and other vessels by Denby. Open cabinets, like the black metal and glass one pictured here, are ideal for displaying such items, with the benefits of visibility without the dust. You can also arrange them on kitchen shelves or the worktop among other decorative elements, such as artwork and dried grasses, as shown in the image here. For added interest, consider combining wooden kitchen items like utensils and trays which, as you can see from the image, contrast beautifully with ceramic glazed pieces. Photo credit: Denby https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/230301fe-c5f3-4afe-8d2b-a346fa32db00/key-interior-styling-pieces-chopping+board.jpg BLOG - 14 Home Decor Items That Make a Room Look Finished - WOODEN CHOPPING BOARDS Wooden chopping boards have long been one of the most decorative styling items in the kitchen, and especially when vintage, as they bring a rustic charm into the kitchen. Being both functional and decorative, you can lean them against the backsplash when not in use. You can also place smaller ones on a shelf. The vintage chopping board pictured here has been styled next to an elegant white and pale green vase from Sophie Allport filled with white blooms, which contrasts beautifully with the rich-toned wood. Photo credit: Sophie Allport https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/shelf-styling-ideas monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - Interior Styling Blog for Real Homes: Ideas, Advice & Inspiration Hi, I’m Sandra, this blog is about interior styling for real homes. If you love interiors and want your home to feel stylish, pulled together, yet still personal, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll be sharing practical styling advice to help you edit, layer, and finish your home with confidence, alongside articles on what’s happening in the interiors world — from design events to colour stories - so you get the full picture. I also take you on tours of beautifully styled homes from around the world, offering inspiration and styling ideas to steal for your own space. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. In today’s post, I’ll be showing you over a dozen different types of shelving from my own floating curved shelves to a small colourful shelving unit in a Shepherd’s Hut. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ed940143-c8e1-4534-b1ec-574b97897ae6/Interior-styling-Abigail-Ahern-styling-shelves.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - Make it stand out Photo credit: Abigail Ahern https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3d986dd5-db33-4ecd-916d-5925ee425117/How+to+style+shelves+pin+templates.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - CURVED SHELVES As you’ve probably gathered, I’m a big fan of shelves in every shape and form - so much so that I have them in most rooms of my home. More recently, I swapped out a sideboard in my dining room for floor-to-ceiling curved shelving, pictured here. The idea sprang to mind whilst browsing in the Soho Home store in London and noticing shelves with curves at either end. I asked if they were for sale but, as it turned out, they were custom built just for display. I took photos and measurements and, after a bit of searching, I found a brilliant company online who could recreate them for me. Once up, the difference was remarkable. The shelves completely transformed the room. Not only did they free up floor space, making the room feel much wider, they also added height and visual interest to an otherwise plain wall. This was a large surface area to style, so I began with a couple of big anchor pieces, including framed art and a large glass vase. When styling shelves, you can break it up into a series of small vignettes. Although odd numbers generally work better, larger standalone pieces, like the frame and vase, can be just as effective to add height and visual weight and prevent the shelves from looking too uniform. I’ve used books stacked rather than upright for variety in height and shape. I also have two portable lamps and candles to light up the shelves in the evening. In addition, I’ve brought in natural textures with two wooden sculptures, concrete pots, eucalyptus, and a trailing succulent. I always like to add personal pieces that reflect who I am and where I live, and have included the gold coral and starfish, as well as a handy pair of binoculars for spotting boats out at sea. Alongside those are a couple of small artworks and drawings of my two dogs, all made by different friends, to make the room feel more homely. You can actually see the other end of these shelves at the start of the post with me in the picture! Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/291e9036-4b30-4412-9c9f-6a921da1c825/shelf-styling-freestanding-unit.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - FREE-STANDING SHELVING Rather than fixed shelves, a free-standing unit can be ideal - especially if you are renting and don’t want anything attached to the wall. And, if you ever get fed up with the unit in one spot, you can simply move it to another. As with any shelving, you can refresh and restyle as often as you like. I do this all the time - editing, rearranging and adding seasonal pieces to keep things looking fresh. This oak shelving by Cox & Cox is a great example of a freestanding piece. They’ve been styled with a mix of interesting décor, including decorative dishes, vases, and a portable lamp all interspersed with books. I'm a firm believer that books give a shelf purpose as they are more than just a decorative object. Even in the kitchen, you can display cookbooks, so whatever style of shelving you have, if there’s space, make room to display books. Photo credit: Cox & Cox https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b1a8dec4-8a5d-4a7c-b651-0bb45fba059b/Stylish+shelves-theInteriorStyle+Host-Armac+Martin+Shelf+Bracket.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - BEAUTIFUL BRACKETS Instead of opting for built-in or floating shelves, using attractive shelf brackets can really add character, especially in period or heritage homes. These elegant, hand-finished pieces in brass from Armac Martin are a good example of how brackets aren't just functional; they add a design detail to a shelf. My kitchen handles, in antique brass, are also from Armac Martin and completely elevate the cabinetry, giving it a much more luxurious feel. The rustic wooden shelves in the image have been styled in a beautiful yet understated way with ceramics, books, plants and attractive kitchen accessories like the pestle and mortar. What I particularly like is the way the styling has been continued beneath the shelf on the worktop with a plant, framed picture, a vintage chopping board, and two rather special brass salt and pepper grinders, adding both vintage charm and a touch of metallic to the setting. Photo credit: Armac Martin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9d42dbac-947e-4631-a8c7-3a984b3cde35/Styling-+shelves-Vintage+shelving.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - VINTAGE SHELVING I photographed this stylish home for Elle Decoration Country, which was full of unique inspiration with one of my favourite features being this vintage shelving unit. The homeowner had discovered it on her travels in a Parisian shop and, as it turns out, it was originally a Dutch library shelving unit. She repurposed it to display glasses, vases and her stunning collection of Astier de Villatte - intricate French tableware which deserves to be on display. This shelving is not just about looks, it’s also functional, as the family don’t need to rummage through cupboards when they need a glass, breakfast bowl or dinner plate. Overall, it’s a great example of how open shelving can make a kitchen look so stylish. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3dc5c61c-6421-46d3-b324-ef716e7ab874/How-to-style-shelves-in-the-kitchen.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - OPEN KITCHEN SHELVING Kitchen shelving has always been a must for me. In this gorgeous kitchen by Hingham, floating white shelves either side of the hob and oven are a brilliant way to add personality and softness to a functional space. I like how these shelves have been styled with a thoughtful mix of decorative and practical pieces, with vintage wood chopping boards, a succulent and other plants, framed artwork, and of course, books. Notice how the cookbooks have been cleverly arranged both upright and stacked, with a couple of vessels on top to add interest. This is the perfect example of how open shelving breaks up solid runs of cabinetry in a kitchen and can replaces high-level cupboards altogether. Shelves offer a place to layer in different tones and textures, as well as the all-important kitchen styling staples - chopping boards and cookbooks. Photo credit: Hingham Furniture https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b4a518f0-9eb5-4457-bee0-6437e1bb2338/Stylish+shelves-the+Interior+Style+Host+-architecturalshelving.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - ARCHITECTURAL SHELVING This bespoke shelving design is rather unique. It runs almost seamlessly from the entryway, through the kitchen-dining area, and all the way to the living room. Designed by architect and TV presenter Charlie Luxton for his own new build home, it’s a brilliant example of how shelving can be both architectural, functional, as well as stylish - far more than just a place to display books and home decor. I really like the clever use of materials with zinc shelves slotted between imposing aged-oak timber posts, creating a striking open structure feature that looks stunning from both sides. Charlie’s wife, Kate, has styled them beautifully with plenty of plants, books, and artefacts. These shelves act as a room divider, filtering light while still allowing plenty of space for displaying objects. It’s a good example to show that shelving doesn’t always need to be flat against a wall and can be a design feature in its own right. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/fdbdc171-ccb6-4314-b936-e31a8832d0ce/Stylish+shelves-theInteriorStyle+Host-Caffe+latte+shelving.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - RECESSED SHELVES Photo credit Garden Trading https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7d978429-3574-4915-9f85-f2cfbb4d8824/Styling-shelves--shelving+and+fireplace.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - IT’S ALL IN THE STYLING These shelves are styled so well that you don’t even notice that they are just plain white planks mounted on a shiplap wall. I photographed this room for Coast and Ariadne at Home, while homeowner and interior stylist Clare Southcombe-Homes added her magic touch to the shelves. What I love most is how Clare has played with textures and shapes - handmade ceramics, amber-toned glassware, and vintage-style finds, come together to create a look that feels curated but still characterful. As an interior stylist, Clare has a real eye for the unusual and here she’s added brilliant touches like bird feathers, a vintage copper tray, and a decorative panel, mixed in with home decor. It’s a reminder that small details can make a big impact. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/651d2f11-9f51-4aa1-a415-7e59f4bd8cca/Styling-shelves-white-unit.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - STYLISH SHELVING UNIT I really like this shelving unit as it’s such a simple yet effective way to add structure to a room while giving you extra display space. The soft white frame pops beautifully against the green wall - it’s subtle, but adds the right amount of contrast without overpowering the room. With its open design, this modular unit with glass shelves by Shelved feels airy, modern and versatile, ideal for displaying your favourite home decor objects. It’s actually a bespoke design and what’s helpful is using their 3D product configurator; it can be tailored to suit a particular space perfectly. The glass shelves have been beautifully styled with sculptural ceramics, a tapered portable lamp, and framed artwork. Darker elements, including a tray and different vessels, add that all-important contrast to the otherwise light and fresh scheme. And, as always, a few stems of greenery bring in a natural touch, completing the arrangement. Photo credit: Shelved https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5fb22e46-e15c-4f0a-8cb4-ad1518e91a70/Styling-shelves-low-level-+shelves.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - LOW LEVEL SHELVES This is the living room of artist Armi Maddison’s London home, which I photographed for Modern Rustic magazine. I was immediately drawn to this subtle, low-level shelf running along one wall. It functions almost like a gallery plinth, showcasing Armi’s beautiful hand-thrown ceramics alongside a mix of collected pieces - it’s a perfect example of how shelves don’t have to be eye level to make a style statement. The shelf adds visual interest to the room, breaking up and adding texture to an otherwise plain wall, without stealing attention from the seating area and hearth. Painted in the same deep tone as the wall, it blends in seamlessly, while the exposed wooden edge adds a natural contrast, tying in with other wood accents in the room. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6e7bf2c5-1295-45f6-ae3f-a26e3bd6490c/Styling-shelves-coloured-study.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - PAINTED SHELVES This painted shelf is a great example of how much impact a single shelf can make, especially when it’s in the right shade. What really works here is that it’s been painted the same colour as the wall, creating a seamless effect so it feels like it’s a built-in part of the space rather than an add-on. Positioned just above the desk by Furniture And Choice, it draws the eye not only because of the colour but also thanks to the thoughtful styling. There’s a mix of books, both stacked and upright for variation, a candle holder, and some artwork - all coming together to create a lovely layered look. A plant adds a natural element and echoes the green tones of both the wall and shelf. Photo credit: Furniture And Choice https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/23051608-6434-4220-b35b-7fb001721583/How-to-style-shelves-shepherds-hut.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - BUILT-IN SHELVING This shelving sits inside a Shepherd’s Hut, and what I love most is how it’s styled with pieces that reflect the owner’s personality. Positioned at the back of the hut and surrounded with vibrant tones, the shelving is a real focal point. The hut belongs to an artist who has used colour confidently. She has painted the wall behind in a rich, deep blue and styled the shelves with pops of fuchsia pink, as well as flowers, glasses, and a patterned wooden box, all of which contrast beautifully with the blue backdrop. There are also two stacks of books in varying blue tones, plus a gorgeous collection of decorative coloured glasses. Overall, this image shows how shelving can be a great place to bring colour and personality into even the smallest of spaces. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c94fda5a-58f8-4375-9a3a-d121492891ac/Styling-shelves-recessed+shelves.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - SIMPLE RECESSED SHELVES Photo credit The 1 hotel Miami South Beach photographed by Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/36cc21ae-ca04-464e-91a2-cdf08a802e4e/styling-shelving-designer.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - CLASSIC SHELVES I photographed this streamlined dark-toned shelving at the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, in London, styled beautifully in one of the showrooms. Rich in materials - wood and brass detailing - it has a classic and more formal feel thanks to the dark frame and patterned wallpaper backdrop. The styling enhances the look with architectural details, like the miniature white columns, sitting alongside a few pre-loved books and an antique wooden box, all carefully curated to work together. I like the way the art pieces are displayed on a small scale. This shelving unit shows how the styling and background can dramatically influence the tone of a space, turning shelving into something both timeless and elegant. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ede41a69-26cf-4dd5-994a-8f1d7deb5795/Styling-+shelves--picture-ledge-shelving.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - PICTURE LEDGE SHELVES I photographed these picture ledge shelves at a friend’s beach house in Brazil, and I love the fact that they offer a gallery wall with a twist. Picture ledge shelves are a more flexible way to display art, but you don’t need to limit it to just frames. I have similar ones in black, and as well as displaying art and photographs, I mix keepsakes - shells, air plants, and even a sun hat hanging off one end, which makes the styling feel more relaxed and effortless. Unlike a traditional gallery wall where once you’ve put the nail in, you are committed to the layout, these shelves offer the freedom to move pieces around and swap old for new whenever you feel like it. My friend has styled hers with a mix of black, white, and wooden frames, featuring everything from black and white old photos of Brazil to a painted fish on reclaimed wood, which is rather special and breaks up the uniformity of the frames. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/053a905c-e27e-421e-8787-77a3898db6ce/Styling-+shelves-bathroom-shelving.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - BATHROOM SHELVES Here is a bathroom in a house in LA that I photographed, and I am including it in this article to demonstrate that shelving isn’t just for living rooms or kitchens. With the right styling, shelves can work well in any room, even a bathroom. These simple, built-in shelves provide storage for towels, but also for decorative pieces, like the unusual ceramics and a cluster of coral displayed on three of the upper shelves. Including these more ornate pieces gives a more curated feel and is far more considered than just showing typical bathroom items like product bottles, which can easily look cluttered. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/999d956c-e418-4171-8af2-e99f89f33937/Stylish+shelves-theInteriorStyle+Host-Umbra-Concealshelves.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - CONCEAL SHELVES Although there’s not much room for styling, I wanted to show you that there’s a shelving solution for even the smallest corners. Plus, these concealed ledges are also a creative solution if you want something a bit unexpected. That said, they will also look good grouped together on an empty wall as an eye-catching display. These particular shelves are Conceal Shelves by Umbra, and because they’re stackable, you can play around with height and layout. I first saw a version of these mini shelves in my sister’s home where they were made out of wood with a sculpture placed on top as the feature. When displaying books on these types of shelves, like in the image, as well as hardback books, you can also place a ceramic pot, artefact, or small plant on top of the stack to give it that stylish and curated edge. Photo credit: Umbra https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a9bb63b6-71cf-4970-b94b-c7b392e2fb87/Styling-shelves-minishelving.jpg BLOG - Shelf Styling Ideas: How to Decorate Different Types of Shelves - SMALL BUT STYLISH This metal mini shelf of mine was a vintage find that turned out to be surprisingly useful. I now have it in my bathroom where I have styled it with a mix of candles, mini succulents, and various small product bottles. Pictured here is a photograph of it in my previous house, where I hung it in the entryway. Back then I used it to keep keys and display other small treasures like fossils and crystals, with a few tiny plants and flowers to bring it to life. I also added a collection of vintage bottles and a trailing plant on top to give it extra height and texture. It is such a handy piece and just shows that shelving can be stylish and functional, no matter what the size. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/wwwinteriorstylehostcom/styling-your-home-with-blue monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - Interior Styling Blog for Real Homes: Ideas, Advice & Inspiration Hi, I’m Sandra, this blog is about interior styling for real homes. If you love interiors and want your home to feel stylish, pulled together, yet still personal, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll be sharing practical styling advice to help you edit, layer, and finish your home with confidence, alongside articles on what’s happening in the interiors world — from design events to colour stories - so you get the full picture. I also take you on tours of beautifully styled homes from around the world, offering inspiration and styling ideas to steal for your own space. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. In today’s post, I’ll be sharing different ways to style with blue accents whether it’s a bold two-toned wall or a soft blue table lamp, you’ll discover different ways top bring this timeless hue into your home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2de17bfe-4725-467c-a98c-c6b6b540a4d1/Pale-blue-kitchen-Delft-bleuw-light.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - BRINGING BLUE INTO YOUR INTERIOR Photo credit Garden Trading https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cb803641-f44a-4597-88c3-6ba34d8e8d2d/Plates-wall-dispaly-blue-kitchen.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - BLUE WALL DECOR WITH PLATES This was my utility room where I carried the same deeper blue from the kitchen island painted in a rich blue called Blue Blood by Paint and Paper Library. I chose this particular blue to tie in with both the plates I hung on the wall and the pendant light in the kitchen. I found three of the original Delft plates in vintage and thrift shops, and mixed them with two modern designs featuring writing, both by Delft. To complete the look, I sourced a couple of fun additions, one with an illustration of a chair and the other a blue frame. Plates are such a timeless way to decorate a wall and introduce a particular colour to a room. Whether grouped together in a kitchen, hallway or dining room, they add charm and a personal touch to your walls. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c0c215c8-e927-48cf-844c-a4d20252347d/Blue-paint-home-office.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - BLUE WALLS This home office is painted in River Blue by Benjamin Moore, which I particularly like as it is similar in depth to the colour I chose for the kitchen in my new home, which is in Teal, also by Benjamin Moore and looks gorgeous paired with my bright white Calcutta-style worktop. This colour of the wall pictured here, like teal, has rich green undertones that give it real depth and works beautifully, complemented with the pale shades and wooden tones in the room. A partially painted accent wall, like the one pictured here, adds drama and contrast without overwhelming the room. Photo credit: Benjamin Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/092b1ce2-ef3f-4bd4-ba94-a8a54cae1e32/blue-artwork-in-living-room.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - BLUE SHADES GALLERY WALL Photo credit The 1 hotel Miami South Beach photographed by Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5a79e794-9a4c-4176-bc5a-17206d4c4cd0/Blue-cushion-on-off-white-chair.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - STEEL BLUE CUSHION Deep blue tones add instant contrast and sophistication to a space. This striking steel-toned linen cushion from Cox & Cox may be plain, but its texture and soft ruffle edge add interest. What pulls the look together is repeating the blue in the vase and artwork nearby, which makes a room feel so much more cohesive, rather than a stand-alone piece. Photo credit: Cox & Cox https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7a1d04ac-3a4a-41ee-a1ee-44b9b35041c8/blue-room-wallpaper-tablecloth.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - BLUE WALLPAPER AND TABLECLOTH I love how this dining room embraces that maximalist pattern-on-pattern look - from the bold blue trees on the wall to the patterned tablecloth and even the layered lighting, with both hanging lampshades and a floor lampshade tucked at the back. The tablecloth is in a dusk blue and is from the Enchanted Transylvania collection by Mindthegap, complementing the other shades of blue in the room. Mixing patterns can be tricky to pull off, but it is easier if you stick to one colour way like the blue pictured here. Photo credit: MINDTHEGAP https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b6329484-2977-4ca7-8df2-99d8e32f2e5c/Blue-sofa-in-living-room.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - COPENHAGEN BLUE SOFA A blue sofa can make such a strong statement in a room. Having said that, I remember my very first sofa was a dark, inky blue, and I wasn’t really a fan of it. But once I paired it with some neutral cushions, it became elevated and more stylish. The sofa pictured here, by Arlo and Jacob, is a timeless design with classic button detailing, so it doesn’t need much in the way of accessories, but the black and white striped cushion, strategically placed, really sets off the blue beautifully and combines with the off-white of the wall behind. Even with a sofa in blue, you still want to aim to include a couple of other blue touches in the room, like the blue side table and blue detailing in the artwork pictured here. Photo credit: Arlo and Jacob https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/477dfa57-8605-467d-8487-bb4d0ff6e246/Blue-pot-on-shelf.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - BLUE AZTEC CERAMIC JAR A gorgeous jar like this Blue & White Aztec-Inspired Ceramic Ginger Jar from Click Style is the perfect way to introduce a blue accent into a room. Versatile home decor pieces like this look striking on a shelf, console or sideboard/credenza. You can style them as part of a vignette alongside other blue pieces or as a stand alone statement. Accessories like vases, jugs, bowls and other vessels are an effortless and often underrated way of bringing colour into the home. Photo credit: Click Style https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/94c854d2-0368-41d5-892d-b6d7ab35a0bc/blue-rolltop-bath.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - LULWORTH BLUE ROLL TOP BATH This freestanding slipper bath stands bold in this strong shade of blue, which looks so striking against the rustic stone wall. This particular model, by Renaissance at Home, is an incredibly versatile bath as it can be decorated in whichever tone of blue you choose, or another colour, and can even be wrapped in fabric or leather for a truly unique finish. I actually painted a bath once myself in a deep plum tone. The result was good but took hours of work; still, it showed that just like the bath pictured here, if you are going for bespoke, it will be a real stand-out piece. Photo credit: Renaissance at Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/139c9360-f518-4289-8d7d-792b550f7736/blue-bedlinen-in-bedroom.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - DENIM BLUE LINEN Dressing your bed in blue is one of the simplest and most effortless ways to bring blue into your home. In the bedroom pictured here, the bed has been styled with blue French linen by Soak & Sleep, giving it that casual, rumpled good look. The beauty of dressing a bed with blue, or another single colour, is that you can layer the bed with different shades, which achieves such a stylish, considered look. This bed has the blue duvet cover and pillow cases, but in addition, a subtle striped blue and white pillow has been added, while a textured throw in another blue tone brings it all together. Photo credit: Soak & Sleep https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5f075a44-7dae-481c-96d9-e938d7b6d3c2/blue-blind-in-kitchen.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - BLUE PATTERNED BLIND When we think of blue interiors, the coastal look always springs to mind. So I thought I’d share with you this lovely, coastal-inspired laundry room which features a Roman blind with a geometric pattern in cobalt blue, together with blue and white striped and textured fabrics from Ian Mankin’s Coast collection. This image demonstrates how blue, especially in coastal tones, can bring a fresh, natural and relaxed feel to a space. These shades of blue also pair beautifully with other coastal materials, such as rattan and wicker, like the baskets and pots pictured here. Photo credit: Ian Mankin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a06b5e1a-ff39-43f5-b592-42c38376d4fc/blue-chair-and-console.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - BLUE RETRO-STYLE CHAIR A chair is a great way to introduce blue with furniture, and it is less of a commitment than a sofa, although it can still pack a visual punch. Blue looks luxurious in fabrics like velvet, as shown here in this stunning piece by Covet House. So, if you are considering introducing blue through seating, opt for an accent chair or set of dining chairs for even more impact. If it’s an accent chair, don’t let it be a standalone pop of blue; add a shade of blue somewhere else in the room, like the chair in the image here, which is paired with a fluted sideboard/credenza in a matching blue tone. Photo credit: Covet House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d560bae5-f9a7-45d0-9c56-15af9f748099/Blue-lamp-base-on-ceramic.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - BLUE CERAMIC TABLE LAMP You so often see the Ikat pattern in classic black and white, but it looks stunning in blue, like on this hand-painted ceramic table lamp base pictured here by Dar Lighting. Table lamps, as well as floor lamps and pendant lights, are a simple yet impactful way of bringing a splash of blue to your interior. You can pair them with other blue accents, like the blue and yellow dish pictured here, or tie it in with blue soft furnishings or artwork. I also picked this image not just for the lamp, but to demonstrate that blue can be teamed with stronger contrasting colours, like the mustard tones here, with stunning effects. Photo credit: Dar Lighting Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3e33ca3d-c129-433f-b048-f2f481f9d833/two-toned-blue-painted-wall.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - BLUE WALL AND BENCH This two-toned wall has been painted in distinctly different shades to give it that accent wall feel, but without being overpowering. It's great for adding subtle contrast and works beautifully in this set up with a variety of woven bags and baskets and a bench by JYSK, all in natural tones which really complement the blue. Photo credit: JYSK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/af80e421-a658-47a5-bbdc-cef74292e84c/blue-jug-on-blue-flower-tablecloth.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - ROYAL BLUE JUG AND TABLECLOTH I have a very similar green jug to the one pictured here, which I usually display on a coffee table in a room with green accents - it’s amazing how this extra piece helps tie the colour scheme together. I occasionally fill it with flowers to make it even more of a feature. Whether styled empty or filled with blooms, a coloured glass jug like the Royal Blue Dew Drop Jug by Casa by JJ pictured here, adds colour and elegance to a room. Photo credit: Casa by JJ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/57cfc525-07e8-4aca-86ff-e4b583e7047a/blue-outdoor-furniture-and-plates.jpg BLOG - Styling your Home with Blue Accents: Different Ways to Use this Timeless Hue - DARK BLUE OUTDOOR TABLE WITH BLUE PLATES Finally, don’t forget that blue works beautifully outside, too. This café-style table and chairs in a smart navy blue make a change from black and give that relaxed holiday feel. In the image, the table has been set with lighter-toned blue enamel plates and bowls by Talking Tables, which are a colourful and easy way to accessorise outdoors. Here, the blue is mixed with a lemon tone, which really adds a pop of colour to the setting. You could also opt for a blue outdoor rug and/or cushions to carry the blue through, creating an inviting exterior space. Photo credit: Talking Tables https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/what-is-interior-styling monthly 0.5 2026-03-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/04d7019e-31e3-40c3-9901-490e03e23989/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - Interior Styling Blog for Real Homes: Ideas, Advice & Inspiration Hi, I’m Sandra, this blog is about interior styling and decoration for real homes. If you love interiors and want your home to feel stylish, pulled together, yet still personal, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll be sharing practical styling advice to help you edit, layer, and finish your home with confidence, alongside articles on what’s happening in the interiors world — from design events to colour stories - so you get the full picture. I also take you on tours of beautifully styled homes from around the world, offering inspiration and styling ideas to steal for your own space. In today’s post, I’m going to look at what interior styling is and the difference between styling and interior design. I’ll also show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/edaa4e48-ed8f-4eeb-9c5a-9601c305b5d5/Interior-styling-what-is-it.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6ddcc997-3864-44f9-bd5c-4df0c5203b79/Interior-styling-Abigail-Ahern.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - Make it stand out Photo credit: Abigail Ahern https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2525c8ee-d850-4707-88b8-9de4176ff093/Interior-styling-Abigail-Ahern-styling-a-coffee-table.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - Make it stand out Photo credit: Abigail Ahern https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1769292789461-TGT3Q9J2QNUGERBS5H7I/Interior-styling-dining-table.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - SARAH ANDREWS STYLIST & TEACHER Sarah Andrews is a style guru whose vacation home, Captains Rest, together with her book, Principles of Style, has gained her international recognition as an interior stylist. Pictured here, she is teaching students how to style a dining table. Photo credit: Jessica Tremp https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1769092442157-4CIFJWIC7Q47FB9N3WQI/Interior-styling-styled-livingroom.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - STYLED EDITORIAL SHOOT I photographed this home, which had already been styled by the homeowner with home decor accents and personal pieces, such as the peacock found on the homeowner's travels. Some of the shoot appeared in Elle Decoration Country. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1769292943152-BZJB8U75EC54DJ2B62D1/Interior-styling-styled-yellow-toned-bedroom.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - STYLING FOR AN EDITORIAL SHOOT Sophie Martin and I styled and photographed a TV presenter's home for a shoot which partially appeared in The Times. Pictured here is Sophie dressing the bed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1769092460198-M0JI6TY6VBAC3GQ172U5/Interior-styling-styled-bedroom-Nkuku.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - STYLED BEDROOM BY NKUKU Here is a bedroom that has been beautifully styled with all the finishing touches, including home decor pieces and soft furnishings, which gives it a curated and stylish feel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1768341011583-SYEZQSBGCKWNN4EOGNZ2/3.png BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - FLOORING SAMPLES AND OTHER MATERIALS Here are samples of flooring and other materials, such as kitchen worktops, all of which an interior designer would collate. Photo credit: Canva Pro https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1768341028145-D7JOGI4PVKIHBHICYXGT/4.png BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - A MOOD BOARD An interior designer will help put together a mood board that may just include wallpaper and paint colours or, like this one, fabrics for window treatments and soft furnishings. Photo credit: Canva Pro https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1768341047729-71WP21CK76DRYK4WZUTO/2.png BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - FLOOR PLANS An interior designer will work with house plans with architectural dimensions and specifications for a residential layout. Photo credit: Canva Pro Photocredit: Canva Pro https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1768341060808-HKT7EGZMWRL0ERG0FLRN/1.png BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - INTERIOR DESIGNED BEDROOM Here is an example of a bedroom that has been interior designed but is lacking the finishing touches that styling with home décor and soft furnishings brings. Photo credit: Canva Pro https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e9ff73be-d398-44a3-a1c3-f5eb83a2c172/Interior-styling-living-room-styling.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - STYLING A SOFA This living room is a feast for the eye. The sofa by Sofology is a great example of how to style seating without overkill. Cushions in warm ochre and mustard tones tie in with other elements in the room, like the Roman blind, dish on the coffee table, and even the artwork, creating cohesion without everything matching exactly. When styling a sofa, mix cushion shapes and fabric textures, as well as balancing patterned with plain for a more interesting and stylish look. Photo credit: Sofology https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ed940143-c8e1-4534-b1ec-574b97897ae6/Interior-styling-Abigail-Ahern-styling-shelves.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - CURATED SHELVES Shelving is the perfect place to display a few carefully chosen pieces, and nobody does this better than Abigail Ahern. Her faux prunus blossom, styled in an artistic ceramic vase, sits beautifully in front of textured, recessed shelves. She has kept the styling simple with a figurine sculpture and a cement vase, as well as a portable lamp which illuminates the shelves without any unsightly cables. For more of Abigail’s stylish home decor, check out her online store. When styling shelves, avoid overcrowding. Leaving empty areas, known as negative space, allows each piece on display to get attention. Larger pieces, either standing alone or grouped with a mix of sizes, shapes and heights, generally make more of an impression than lots of smaller items. Photo credit: Abigail Ahern https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2e71e2f7-4d17-41b8-b8ca-06ec8dc48f09/Interior-Styling-Styled-bath.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - BATHROOM STYLING Even the most beautiful bathroom - like the one pictured here by Tavistock Bathrooms, can benefit from a few considered styling touches. The striking freestanding tub and dark bronze bath filler already create impact, but it’s the smaller details that complete the space. A hanging plant, wood wall hook with brushes and towels, and a contemporary side table all add warmth and practicality. A side table is especially useful next to a freestanding bath as it provides a practical and stylish surface for attractive product bottles and a scented candle. Notice how the green and beige towels add texture and tie in with the tones of other elements in the room. Photo credit: Tavistock bathrooms https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a55e1254-b92a-4441-85f7-d6d4a63a2b1f/Interior-styling-dressing-the-bed.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - DRESSING THE BED The linens and soft furnishings you choose make a huge difference to the overall look and feel of a bedroom. Depending on whether you have a headboard or not, pillows can be layered in different ways - laid flat with a single cushion in front (like in the image here), or built up with large 65 x 65cm euro cushions to give structure to a bed without a headboard. The bed pictured here by Swoon features a gorgeous mango wood headboard, so the pillows have been laid down to allow the it to remain visible. The bedlinen is terracotta-toned washed linen, paired with a throw in earthy hues to inject pattern and warmth into the room. Two contrasting steel blue pillows add depth, while a single striped bolster-style cushion placed in front pulls the whole look together. For more ideas, take a look at my blog post on styling beds, where I share over a dozen different schemes. Photo credit: Swoon https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2bf72672-8284-4304-a604-562d5943e9e5/Livingroom+Senufo+stool+-+Katie+Fischer.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - COFFEE TABLE AND MANTELPIECE STYLING Coffee tables and mantelpieces are two key surfaces that can instantly make a living room feel more stylish. In this scheme by interior designer Katie Fischer, carefully chosen pieces from her home decor collection add depth, while the overall palette remains calm and cohesive. On the mantelpiece, an unusually shaped vessel and candle holder draw the eye upwards, adding height and visual interest to the back of the room. On the coffee table, flowers arranged in a glass vase introduce an essential touch of greenery, while the three dark vessels bring contrast to the softly toned off-white interior. This is balanced by the addition of three white vessels, creating harmony through repetition and tone. I am always a fan of including something rustic and natural into a scheme. Here, Katie has teamed handmade rustic pieces, like the wooden stools and table, with ceramic hand-thrown vases, striking the balance of mixing refined interiors with rustic pieces. You can explore more of Katie’s pieces at her online store. Photo credit: Katie Fischer https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/541dd5be-b74a-4d53-a36d-b2b241d463b3/Interior-styling-pattern.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - STYLING WITH PATTERN This Andrew Martin bed, in collaboration with Kit Kemp who designed the headboard and cushions, is the perfect example of styling with pattern. I photographed it during design week, and it shows how patterns can be combined without overwhelming a space. The bedspread is kept plain, with coloured stitching in the same tones as the cushions. While both the throw pillows/cushions and headboard are patterned, white pillows are placed between them, preventing the overall bed from feeling too busy. For more headboard inspiration, check out my blog post on headboards with 20 different ideas. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/030c0841-48e0-405b-a41f-2c85f80542ce/Interior-Styling-styled-Side-table.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - STYLISH SIDE TABLE A side table can be a styling piece in its own right, but it can be enhanced by a small, considered group of objects, like the portable lamp, candle holder and small vase featured here. The lamp adds height and works well positioned close to a wall, giving this side table by Cox & Cox a modern, functional twist. A stack of books, a small figurine or a vase of flowers can also look stylish on a side table. Just bear in mind that if the table sits more centrally in the room, next to a chair, for example, keep the styling lower and more compact. Books, smaller lamps and shorter vases will maintain balance and prevent taller pieces from being knocked over. Photo credit: Cox & Cox https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/990855d5-abe9-459d-94d1-0ee8ccb9644e/interior-styling-shelving BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - A STYLED VIGNETTE IN THE KITCHEN This shelf sits in the kitchen of Captains Rest, a vacation home described by Vogue as one of Tasmania’s best. The home is owned, hosted and styled by Sarah Andrews, author of The Principles of Style. Here, Sarah has styled open kitchen shelving with a vintage bust and hand-thrown plates, mixing them effortlessly with everyday kitchen utensils. Dried flowers and pine cones bring a natural element to the space, creating a look that feels informal yet incredibly stylish. When styling open shelves or kitchen worktops, don’t be afraid to mix the practical with the decorative - it’s this combination that gives personality and a sense of place to the kitchen. For more of Sarah’s unique styling, check out my recent blog on Captains Rest, where you’ll get to see how she has styled other areas. Photo credit: Jonathan Rose https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b16ef482-70b6-4273-b088-d1a3bffb2cfe/Interior-styling-brown-styled-living-roomt.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - STYLING WITH A SINGLE COLOUR IN DIFFERENT TONES I photographed this living room for Ideal Home magazine. The home is owned and styled by interior stylist Clare Southcombe-Homes, and the scheme is all about styling with brown tones. The rich, deeper browns of the velvet curtains combine with the lighter tan browns for contrast. Clare also carried the browns through to feather artwork, pairing it with real feathers displayed in a tan-toned vessel – a subtle but thoughtful detail. To view more of Clare’s interior styling, visit my blog post where I feature The Biscuit Cottage - a holiday home hosted, designed, decorated and styled by Clare. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9bc2f9fa-d53c-41a9-8738-b492ba6f9d4c/Interior-styling-bedsidetables-nightstand-styling BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - STYLING YOUR BEDSIDE TABLE/NIGHTSTAND Bedside tables, also known as nightstands, come in all shapes and sizes, and can be anything from a contemporary, elegant design like the one pictured here, to an antique drinks cabinet or even a bespoke piece made from vintage hat boxes or wooden crates. Whatever you choose, styling it with a few attractive and useful items will give your bedroom an instant upgrade. The nightstands in this LA bedroom – which I styled and photographed – feature marble tea light holders, a vessel, and a tray to keep small items, such as earrings, safely in one place overnight. These styling details are kept minimal so they don’t distract from the striking brass pendant light. At the same time, they have also been specifically chosen to echo the tones used in the decorative cushion and nightstands themselves – a subtle touch that ties the scheme together. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/52804a03-cd26-49ed-8e52-a36e253fb9f0/Interior-styling-console-tables.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - CONSOLE STYLING A console table is one of the easiest surfaces in a home to decorate. Often all it needs is a pot with a few branches or flowers paired with a couple of books. A table lamp is another effective styling piece for consoles - especially the portable lamps that don’t require sockets. What I particularly like about the styling here is the weathered stone statement pot, which adds visual weight to the surface, while the branches add height and a sense of drama. Combined with the striking console by Sweetpea and Willow, the overall effect brings a touch of grandiosity to the room. Photo credit: Sweetpea & Willow https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1db5e3f5-1e2b-4d9d-81d2-2c1236d7eab6/Interior-styling-kitchen-island-and-shelving.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - KITCHEN ISLAND AND SHELVING STYLING A kitchen island is a perfect place to show off your styling skills - as are open shelves. What works particularly well in kitchens is the ability to mix decorative objects with practical pieces such as utensils and chopping boards, alongside fruit, vegetables, and herbs. In this kitchen, portable lamps by Pooky – all with matching shades – are paired with plants and various ceramic and stone vessels. Red apples displayed on the island and worktop introduce colour, while everyday items such as glasses, along with a carafe and a pestle and mortar, look perfectly placed on the shelves. Being useful and timeless, a pestle and mortar makes a great style piece, proving that practical pieces can be as decorative as ornamental. Photo credit: Pooky https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/17500be6-6ca0-4f6b-b4a6-3529e9013093/Interior-styling-dining-room.jpg BLOG - What Is Interior Styling? Home Styling Explained for Real Homes - DINING TABLE STYLING IN RED AND GREY I styled and photographed this dining area in a new-build home in Belgium, using pops of red - a colour that is not often seen in interiors. The homeowners already owned two pieces of artwork featuring bold red tones, so I echoed these with flowers and red chilli peppers to create a cohesive colour story. To break up the large wooden surface of the oak dining table, I placed two grey linen table runners along with a grey concrete pot and an acorn sculpture. Flowers, fruit and vegetables are a great way to introduce colour on a temporary basis, while a tray provides a stylish and practical way to group items and style them in a vignette. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/dining-area-before-after monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - Dining Area Makeover: Styling, Decoration & Before-and-Afters - Interior Styling Blog for Real Homes: Ideas, Advice & Inspiration Hi, I’m Sandra, this blog is about interior styling and decoration for real homes. If you love interiors and want your home to feel stylish, pulled together, yet still personal, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll be sharing practical styling advice to help you edit, layer, and finish your home with confidence, alongside articles on what’s happening in the interiors world — from design events to colour stories - so you get the full picture. I also take you on tours of beautifully styled homes from around the world, offering inspiration and styling ideas to steal for your own space. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. In today’s post, I am going to show you my dining area makeover. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7a4dfb44-568c-4697-9bfd-bfa9b5ccad7c/Dining+room+refurb+and+restyle.jpg BLOG - Dining Area Makeover: Styling, Decoration & Before-and-Afters - MY DINING AREA REFURB AND RESTYLE Photo credits: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8bd0a615-e465-495f-8c4d-836abf3de972/Dining+room+before+shot.jpg BLOG - Dining Area Makeover: Styling, Decoration & Before-and-Afters - BEFORE: Estate agents shot DIAMOND MIFFY “Diamond Miffy” in front of Royal Coster Diamonds, next to the Diamond Museum Amsterdam https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7ac59f62-cd4c-4e9c-9711-aa1892560ec6/Dining+room+before+with+new+table.jpg BLOG - Dining Area Makeover: Styling, Decoration & Before-and-Afters - BEFORE: Furniture moved in GET THE LOOK AT HOME Below is a list of all the different elements Emma has used in her natural foraged displays. You don’t have to have every item as you can still get the look with branches, alternative greenery and pine cones. If you don’t have access to dried or preserved flowers, you can use fresh flowers by placing them in a water tube, which you can purchase from Amazon. You can tuck the water tube into the foliage to disguise it. DRIED HYDRANGEA HEADS BRACKEN OR FERN THAT, BY DYING BACK, HAS NATURALLY BRONZED RED FRESH HELLEBORES EVERGREEN FIR OR EUCALYPTUS DRIED SLICED AND WHOLE CLEMENTINES BRANCHES OF RED BERRIES OR ROSE HIP PINECONES OLD MAN’S BEARD GLASS BAUBLES FAIRY LIGHTS STRING OR FLORISTS' WIRE https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e6a915a8-cf1b-4392-96e5-9fc61bfd9880/Dining+room+before+and+afters+during+rennovation.jpg BLOG - Dining Area Makeover: Styling, Decoration & Before-and-Afters - DURING: Door removal begins ADD A SNOWY TEXTURE WITH OLD MAN’S BEARD In the display on the left, and in the box on the right are the dried flowers of Clematis vitalba, known more commonly as old man's beard. It grows wild and is often seen in the hedgerows. Its flowers, when dry, form cloud-like, fluffy clumps, and with its snowy texture, contrasts beautifully against the deep green of the fir. Hang it bunched together, like in the arrangement above, to lighten up a display. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/18d11519-8fc9-442a-b320-78afe2ac3ba3/Dining+room+renovation+shot.jpg BLOG - Dining Area Makeover: Styling, Decoration & Before-and-Afters - DURING: Doors and wooden floor installed DRYING ORANGES Emma has repeated the dried oranges in different ways on decorations throughout the hotel, including the Christmas trees. It’s such a natural way to add colour and that festive feel. You can add them to your gift wrap, use them in your table decorations and hang them on the tree. Follow the instructions below to create your own dried orange decorations. WHAT YOU WILL NEED Small oranges or clementines, a sharp knife Oven, warming drawer or dehydrator FOR ORANGES WITH SCORING Use a sharp knife to cut vertical lines around the orange. Gently cut even lines from top to bottom, like segments through the peel. Try not to cut into the flesh. The peel will pull back slightly as it dries, creating that striped pattern you can see in the image here. You don’t need to remove the flesh as this will shrink and dry up once the orange is in the oven. FOR SLICED ORANGES Slice your oranges or clementines into thin slices of around 5mm. Blot gently with a paper towel to soak up any excess juice. THE DRYING PROCESS Place your oranges or slices on a baking tray in the oven on low heat of around 100°C / 200°F for 3 to 4 hours. To help them dry evenly, turn them every hour. If you are drying whole oranges, they may need a bit longer. To tell if they are fully dried, they should no longer be sticky. Leave them to cool. FINAL TOUCHES Turn your dried orange slices into natural garlands. Use a needle and thread to attach them to each other then tie with ribbon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7f054548-8c3b-405a-924f-893c716e13e5/Dining+room+before+and+afters+before+final+styling.jpg BLOG - Dining Area Makeover: Styling, Decoration & Before-and-Afters - DURING: Styling and decoration first phase With both the new external and internal doors in place, and the walls freshly painted in white, the dining room was really starting to come together. When it comes to paint, I often start by painting everything white until I have lived with it for a while and know how it works with the light and my furniture. Together with my table and chairs, I added an old sideboard aka credenza that was a temporary piece until I had figured out exactly what I wanted in the space. The balcony had also been transformed with dark composite to look like wood, which is longer lasting and hard-wearing. I laid it vertically rather than horizontally to extend the room, making it feel like an extension of the interior. One new addition I am very pleased with is the rug. It’s actually an indoor/outdoor rug that is perfect for under a dining table. Outdoor rugs can be a little on the thin side, so I added a rubber underlay to give it more plushness and feel softer underfoot. I made sure the rug was big enough so when all the chairs are pulled out they still sit comfortably on the rug. Getting the rug size right is important to make a room look balanced and furniture grounded, so always ensure you measure well before purchasing one so you can be sure it will work in the space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ee80673a-f860-45bf-af37-289dbfaca147/Dining+area+-+shelving.jpg BLOG - Dining Area Makeover: Styling, Decoration & Before-and-Afters - FINAL LOOK: New shelving installed RUSTIC MEETS REFINED STYLE TREE WITH NATURAL DECORATIONS In contrast to the natural, foraged style displays, this Christmas tree leans more towards classic festive elegance. Emma has decorated it in a timeless palette with rich red, antique gold, and warm copper baubles, sitting alongside organic elements. Emma has mixed textures such as plush velvet and metallics for sheen, and teamed these with handmade, traditional touches like dried orange slices and cinnamon. She has also woven in bundles of cinnamon sticks tied with ribbon, which she hangs just like baubles. When decorating your tree, it’s about getting the balance of your festive ingredients right so that it feels luxurious yet also homemade, and always elevated by fairy lights. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6080fea0-373c-45ff-8150-78117ee82e18/Dining+area-beforeandafter.jpg BLOG - Dining Area Makeover: Styling, Decoration & Before-and-Afters - FINAL PHASE: New additions in place and styled Here are my curved floating shelves alongside the dining table, with the addition of an accent chair, which I swapped with the black metal table. Last summer I was also refreshing the living room, which involved a new off-white sofa (I’ll reveal this in another post soon). When the delivery guys put the sofa in its place, it was one of those horrible moments when I thought I had made a huge mistake! Despite both pieces being off-white, they did not work in the room together. The bouclé chair made the sofa, in an off-white tone called ‘Sea Salt’, look pink! Luckily, the chair fitted perfectly in the dining room. For what seemed like ages, I had temporary curtains hanging that I had actually remade myself, but once everything was in place, it was time to get the finishing touches right - and a new set of curtains. Throughout the process I realised two things. First, especially in rooms with high ceilings, your pole or rail should sit as high as possible. I raised mine right up beneath the cornice. Hanging curtains from the highest point not only adds vertical emphasis to the room, but also gives the curtains a more elegant, flowing appearance. Second, still having my temporary curtains hanging badly while the rest of the room looked finished made me realise how essential window treatments are and can make or break the look of a room. I will be going into much more detail in my future post on curtains. Finally, I want to use my dining area as an example to touch on visual weight - which is how heavy or light a space feels. Getting the balance right in a room is key to harmony and you will feel far happier with it long term. My dining table, sideboard and black metal table were all large surfaces, and of a similar height, which drew the eye to one low level. While I was making use of them temporarily, I tried to add contrast, colour and scale to compensate for this by placing a mirror above the sideboard and tall plants to give height. It’s a similar principle to creating a vignette. Ideally, for it to look balanced you need one taller item, one middle and one lower. This is why removing the sideboard worked well as the new shelving created vertical height and structure which, along with the armchair, which was lower than the table, made the room feel far more balanced. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/stylish-home-tour-captains-rest-interior-stylist monthly 0.5 2026-03-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: Inside the Vintage-Styled Captain’s Rest by Interior Stylist Sarah Andrews - Interior Styling Blog for Real Homes: Ideas, Advice & Inspiration Hi, I’m Sandra, this blog is about interior styling and decoration for real homes. If you love interiors and want your home to feel stylish, pulled together, yet still personal, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll be sharing practical styling advice to help you edit, layer, and finish your home with confidence, alongside articles on what’s happening in the interiors world — from design events to colour stories - so you get the full picture. I also take you on tours of beautifully styled homes from around the world, offering inspiration and styling ideas to steal for your own space. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. In today’s post, I am going to take you on a tour of Captains Rest, a Fishermans shack transformed into a vintage-filled gem by former scientist, sailor and interior stylist Sarah Andrews. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/17ab7e16-bd7c-413c-8198-48aa00a8edd2/Sarah-Andrews+-+captains-rest.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: Inside the Vintage-Styled Captain’s Rest by Interior Stylist Sarah Andrews - MEET SARAH - AUTHOR, INTERIOR STYLIST AND OWNER OF CAPTAINS REST Photo credit: Jessica Tremp All Captains Rest photographs by Jonathan Rose www.captainsrest.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/24f66e57-98ae-4c31-b2aa-4ce9b1b9665b/captains-rest-exterior-shot.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: Inside the Vintage-Styled Captain’s Rest by Interior Stylist Sarah Andrews - CAPTAINS REST EXTERIOR Photo credit Garden Trading https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/990855d5-abe9-459d-94d1-0ee8ccb9644e/captains-rest-interior-shelf-styling.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: Inside the Vintage-Styled Captain’s Rest by Interior Stylist Sarah Andrews - STYLISH VIGNETTES Photo credit The 1 hotel Miami South Beach photographed by Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6b3184f9-4c6d-4fb0-a8c2-51c7ff0b0ab2/captains-rest-living-room-sea-view.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: Inside the Vintage-Styled Captain’s Rest by Interior Stylist Sarah Andrews - LIVING ROOM STYLISH DETAILS As the landscape is ever-changing with mist, rain, sun and even snow, the living room has the best of both worlds - sweeping views of the sea and, thanks to the wood-burning stove, a cosy, cocoon-like atmosphere. It’s the ideal place to curl up next to the fire with a book or sink into the sofa and take in the stunning view. The twelve-pane antique windows came from an old building in Launceston and still had the maker’s name and the date ‘1892’ on, adding yet another layer of history to the shack. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/bc3f2e4d-91fc-4d06-b1dc-3a965f98c4e9/captains-rest-living-room.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: Inside the Vintage-Styled Captain’s Rest by Interior Stylist Sarah Andrews - DAY BED WITH A VIEW Sarah has styled the built-in day bed with rich green velvet cushions with textured linens to create a look that is elegant yet informal. This gorgeous vista with its vintage table and artwork has been featured in campaigns and magazines including Vogue, Bed Threads and Australian Best Homes, to name but a few. With its view and places to relax, the living room is the perfect spot for contemplation and to take refuge from the rest of the world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/52125763-0ee5-4d2b-a28c-f5eb79bcb0fc/Stylish-home-Captains-rest-living+room-sofa.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: Inside the Vintage-Styled Captain’s Rest by Interior Stylist Sarah Andrews - FACING THE VIEW Opposite the day bed, a generous sofa is styled with cushions and warm woollen blankets. Sarah explained how bringing in larger items, like the sofa, was tricky. ‘We are a 4-hour drive from anywhere and I have a tiny car. So much was found in the area, repurposed, or sent in by friends and some of my favourite stockists,’ she points out. ‘The end result is humble and true to its surroundings and history. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3e760c18-8949-42b2-bdc1-d08d04412316/captains-rest-side-table-and-art.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: Inside the Vintage-Styled Captain’s Rest by Interior Stylist Sarah Andrews - STYLISH DETAILS An eclectic mix of antiquities and personal touches are woven throughout the shack, each telling its own story. Given how often Captains Rest has been featured in so many magazines, it’s no surprise that others wanted a slice of Sarah’s distinctive style. It is these thoughtful styling skills that have earned Sarah international recognition as an author and interior stylist, with both her bestselling book, Principles of Style, and styling courses helping to teach fans how to style their own homes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/66db6aff-e1f3-42db-8aef-bad1459b30da/captains-rest-stylish-shelf.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: Inside the Vintage-Styled Captain’s Rest by Interior Stylist Sarah Andrews - STYLISH SHELF DETAILS Every corner of the shack and every shelf is beautifully styled. Set against the shiplap wall, Sarah has arranged a series of different-sized clay pots displaying stems of the dried silver dollar plant, next to vintage framed artwork and a time-worn fishing net. A neat row of earthenware cups completes the look - both attractive and practical, making it easy for guests to help themselves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e25c92da-f976-4561-a775-152c597b91ce/captains-rest-kitchen.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: Inside the Vintage-Styled Captain’s Rest by Interior Stylist Sarah Andrews - THE KITCHEN The kitchen is a stylist's dream, with earthenware plates and cups paired with vintage chopping boards and well-worn kitchen utensils. Sarah has thoughtfully mixed in dried flowers in various pots to bring in a touch of nature. The crisp white cabinetry is perfectly balanced with warm-toned wooden floors and countertops, in keeping with the rustic charm of the shack. The floors throughout are polished Tasmanian oak, restored by Sarah herself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/bb3fce7c-c0b7-4d8a-be1e-a729d7394d5b/captains-rest-bedroom.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: Inside the Vintage-Styled Captain’s Rest by Interior Stylist Sarah Andrews - THE BEDROOM This bedroom is full of thoughtful details - it feels considered yet lived-in and a perfect example of how layering can create an effortlessly stylish, undone look. The palette of earthy green hues immediately draws the eye, beginning with the sculptural headboard. This bespoke piece is one of Sarah’s clever ideas, which she has created by combining two antique headboards from children's beds. An olive-toned, crumpled linen throw and matching pillows add texture and contrast, teamed with pillows and a throw in a mix of fine and bold stripes to bring visual interest. The wood clapboard backdrop and a single bulb wound casually around a hook, add a final touch of rustic charm to the bedroom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4d21fa08-090b-40e6-9f7e-ebf1193aae1b/captains-rest-bathroom.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: Inside the Vintage-Styled Captain’s Rest by Interior Stylist Sarah Andrews - THE BATHROOM Even the bathtub is a statement piece, far from your run-of-the-mill shape. It’s a freestanding piece with traditional-style, elegant taps. When styling, Sarah takes comfort into consideration first. ‘I like to create as much ease and bliss around daily life as possible,’ she explains, which is certainly the case in the bathroom. This is yet another place to relax and unwind while surrounded by Sarah’s signature touches, like a vintage chair, characterful mirror and delicate dried flower arrangement hung as wall décor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/edd8f480-3ea5-426b-93a1-f0c7bf2f6c6c/Captains+rest-view+to+jetty.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: Inside the Vintage-Styled Captain’s Rest by Interior Stylist Sarah Andrews - THE SURROUNDINGS Looking out to the jetty, it feels like Captains Rest is off-grid, and in many ways it is. Nestled in the Wilderness World Heritage Area, it offers that rare feeling of seclusion. Having had a feel of Captain's Rest's captivating interior and cinematic surroundings, you can almost picture it in a movie or the editorial pages of a fashion magazine. For creatives, Captains Rest is a dream, with unique character and location. So, as you can imagine, it is a sought-after location for fashion and homeware shoots, travel features, music videos and even movies. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/stylish-headboard-ideas-bedroom-inspiration monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - Interior Styling Blog for Real Homes: Ideas, Advice & Inspiration Hi, I’m Sandra, this blog is about interior styling for real homes. If you love interiors and want your home to feel stylish, pulled together, yet still personal, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll be sharing practical styling advice to help you edit, layer, and finish your home with confidence, alongside articles on what’s happening in the interiors world — from design events to colour stories - so you get the full picture. I also take you on tours of beautifully styled homes from around the world, offering inspiration and styling ideas to steal for your own space. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. In today’s post, I have over twenty very different headboards to show you for ideas and inspiration, from plush velvet fluted styles to DIY options, including vintage shutters and a headboard made from a piano music roll. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b956ff0d-eedf-4066-848f-64f13636afe0/Stylish+Headboards+-+buttoned.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - GORGEOUS HEADBOARD IDEAS AND INSPIRATION Photo credit Garden Trading https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/30132ea0-7e6f-4ed1-980e-27cee9afd60a/Stylish+headboards+-Tielle+by+Tradelinens.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - SCALLOP-EDGED HEADBOARD I picked this headboard as one of the first to show you as it’s a modern classic - versatile enough to work in a variety of interior schemes and bedroom settings. It has a scalloped shape but with a softer, more contemporary contours than traditional designs. The subtle earthy-toned stripe blends beautifully with the relaxed linen, pillows and throw by Tielle, who dress the beds of one of my favourite stylish hotels, The Pig, proving how effortlessly you can style the bed to complement your headboard in a beautiful, understated way. Photo credit: Tielle by Tradelinens https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7a2ebcee-75c8-4784-9bed-3093a7711553/Stylish+Headboards+-+vintage+shutters.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - VINTAGE SHUTTER HEADBOARD This is such a simple yet incredibly effective way to create your own unique headboard. These vintage French shutters were sourced by an interior stylist for her daughter’s bedroom, adding a touch of rustic charm and bringing vintage into the room. The bed has been dressed in soft, pared-back neutral tones with washed linen, perfect for achieving that natural, crumpled look that pairs so well with vintage pieces. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4e21adc1-f6ef-4dd2-8306-a2e4f551fbd6/Stylish+Headboards+-+fabric+headboard.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - PADDED LINEN HEADBOARD Photo credit The 1 hotel Miami South Beach photographed by Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c3fe5029-40b3-48d4-b324-7c094e657344/Stylish+Headboards+-+poured+concrete.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - POURED-PLASTER HEADBOARD This stunning headboard is custom-made with poured plaster and created as one seamless piece with a bed frame and side tables. It was designed by Natalie Saunders at Desert Wild to feel cloud-like as a beautiful sculptural feature. You can see more of this dreamy vacation home, which has more poured plaster details, in my full blog post featuring Desert Wild. Photo credit: courtesy of Desert Wild https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c5ce9e92-b21f-4488-b3fd-f153f7fde122/Stylish+Headboards-printed+by+mind+the+gap.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - PRINTED HEADBOARD WITH MATCHING SOFT FURNISHINGS A printed headboard always adds instant style and interest to a bedroom, but Mindthegap have taken it one step further with their striking Journey to Eden Chinoiserie print. Here, the headboard is matched with cushions and a bedspread in the same fabric - pattern drenching at its best. Phot credit: Mindthegap https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8a8ccbaa-58b1-4d3f-9ccb-009e22ef5fda/Stylish+headboards.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - A CLASSIC LINEN HEADBOARD WITH A STATEMENT SHELF This headboard belongs to a very stylish friend who has a fantastic eye for interiors, and it’s such a clever example of how to create a layered, two-tiered headboard effect. After cladding the walls in tongue and groove, she had a timber box built behind the bed, running from wall to wall. This acts as a second headboard and doubles up as a shelf – perfect for displaying artwork and artefacts. The other benefit and design detail is that it also has the light switches seamlessly integrated into the wood. The bed has a simple shaped linen headboard which sits beautifully in front of the wood, adding softness and balance to the scheme. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/88a1efdf-5a78-46f0-913e-c0ad94988a92/Stylish+Headboards+-+handmade+corrugated.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - DIY CORRUGATED HEADBOARD This is a truly unique industrial-style headboard crafted from a weathered piece of corrugated iron salvaged from the original outbuildings of a farm that has since been transformed into stunning barn conversions. The contrast between the crisp white linen and the raw metal gives the bedroom a more balanced feel, while a printed throw adds a touch of elegance and softens the space. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/95c1b030-0fe1-44de-8742-e61b9f619ee5/Stylish+Headboards+-+fabric+stripes.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - STRIPED FABRIC HEADBOARD This striped headboard in a soft green, grey and yellow really steals the show. The bed itself has been kept pared back with white bed linen and cushions, allowing the headboard to be a stand-out feature in the room. A luxurious stone-washed cotton waffle throw from The Fine Cotton Company pairs perfectly with the grey-toned stripes. Notice how the three botanical prints above the bed echo the green of the headboard and tie the whole look together. Photo credit: The Fine Cotton Company https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a1421db5-9096-4d85-8a6e-aa70b265eac5/Stylish+Headboards+-+unique.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - PIANO MUSIC ROLL HEADBOARD I photographed this home for a magazine and was instantly impressed when I spotted this clever idea for a headboard - it’s simple yet striking. At first, I was unsure what it was made from, until the homeowner explained it was originally a piano music roll, the kind used for self-playing pianos, which had been tied into place and repurposed as a headboard. It is such a unique piece, full of storytelling charm. It just goes to show that a headboard doesn’t have to follow tradition and, as we’ve seen from several examples in this article, it doesn’t even need to be attached to the bed. So, get creative and reimagine materials in an unusual way for something truly unique to you. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b9b652ec-ad5f-4fc0-97d8-e113b55ed36f/Stylish+Headboards+-+French-style.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - SILVER METALLIC ROCOCO-INSPIRED HEADBOARD This is a headboard, shown here in my guest room, and I actually chose it to pair with the brushed steel bath within the room for that ultimate touch of luxury. It’s a French-inspired Rococo style, similar to the Button & Sprung one I mentioned earlier, though with a slightly different silhouette. To give it a contemporary feel, I styled the bed in dark grey washed linen combined with lavender-toned pillows, which softens the look. The photo was taken in my previous home and I’m now considering painting it, something I always suggest if you want to refresh a headboard. Painting a headboard gives you more flexibility to either find a shape you like from a store, repurpose one you already have, or find a thrift store bargain and transform it to a colour that suits your interior scheme. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/874e8b2c-5e6f-4591-9284-6f22f038ebf1/Stylish+Headboards+-+cane.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - CLASSIC CANE HEADBOARD Cane is a timeless classic. Its warm, natural tone makes it incredibly versatile, and it can work in country-style interiors, or in a coastal home. The headboard pictured here is teamed with stripes in a rich dark olive from The Secret Linen Store, mixing both fine and large stripes to add depth and texture to the bed. You can find cane headboards from online stores, as well as alternatives to cane, such as wicker or rattan, which offer similar tones and work well to give your bed that organic, less formal, feel. Photo credit: The Secret Linen Store https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8cd0bb31-2314-4814-adde-a74a5701d70a/Stylish+Headboards+-+fabric+with+leather+straps.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - LIVING ROOM STYLISH DETAILS This fabric headboard is simple yet effortlessly stylish, suspended above the bed on leather straps that echo the warm brown tones of both the wooden bed frame and shelf, making the whole room feel cohesive. It’s essentially a freestanding panel held in place by the straps, which is ideal if you have a bed frame that isn’t particularly high. While it looks striking in this all-white room, it doesn’t steal the spotlight from the other standout elements in the room, like the dramatic dried palm leaves above the bed. If you like this look and want to see more styling ideas from this gorgeous vacation retreat, The JTH Tucson in Joshua Tree, check out my blog post on stunning vacation homes. Photo credit: Margaret Austin Photography Courtesy of Sara & Rich Combs, The Joshua Tree House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7f2b6302-4f38-481e-b6f6-e313021247e4/Stylish+Headboards+-curved+cocoon.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - HAND-CARDVED HEADBOARD Here is a true classic - a hand-carved headboard. It’s a timeless choice for traditional bedrooms, period homes and for the hopeless romantic, bringing character and charm into any space. The Cocoon Bed by French Bedroom, with its sweeping, undulating shape creates a soft, enveloping silhouette that adds a sense of grandeur to the room. Carved headboards come in a range of styles from the ornate Rococo and Baroque-style, to the more paired-back shapes with subtle contouring. When choosing one, look for quality craftsmanship and solid wood like the one pictured here, crafted from oak, stained with a satin varnish, and upholstered in luxurious velvet. A well-made carved headboard will not only look beautiful but will last for years. Photo credit: French Bedroom https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e850e4d0-8d31-46f7-b943-3458bb32e062/Stylish+Headboards+-+slatted+wood.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - SPACIOUS MASTER BEDROOM WITH AQUA TONES What I really like about this wooden slatted headboard is its generous width, as it gives a natural feel to neutral interior schemes. The washed oak finish gives off those soft, beachy tones that make this style of headboard perfect for a coastal or contemporary home. This particular model, made from individual slats by Naturewall, is not only stylish but easy to install with an adhesive. You can also customise it to fit your bed exactly - whether you prefer a narrow panel that reaches towards the ceiling, or a wider version that extends well beyond each side of the bed. Photo credit: Naturewall https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/68a6beb0-8fa6-4c19-9be8-c53da66d9b4c/Stylish+Headboards+-+floral.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - HERITAGE-STYLE HEADBOARD This headboard is a gorgeous blend of a French-inspired Rococo shape upholstered in a traditional William Morris print, giving it a true English Country feel. With its asymmetrical curves and ornate silhouette, I personally think that the shape is one of the most striking, which is why if you scroll down you’ll spot my silver rococo version. The frame of the bed from Button and Sprung is also covered in the same fabric and would work beautifully in heritage homes and country cottages. Finally, notice how the bed has been styled with soft green and brick-toned cushions and bedlinen, which complement the print perfectly. Photo credit: William Morris at Home by Ashley Wilde and Flood Studio https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0d3d3572-9e8c-42d0-b903-413eaaa24f1f/Stylish+Headboards+-+Rattan.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - Fan-Back Rattan Headboard This is a retro-style headboard made with looped and woven cane from rattan, which was hugely popular in the 1960s and 70s. With its natural materials and artisan style, it draws inspiration from mid-century design and traditional Balinese craftsmanship, yet it also feels very current and is ideal for relaxed coastal homes and boho-inspired aesthetics. Photo credit: Unsplash https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8e4ba48a-cb44-4e62-a824-6d29888d0923/Stylish+Headboard+-Navy+velvet+Ottoman.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - VELVET WINGED HEADBOARD This headboard is classic, with subtle winged corners, and is upholstered in a rich dark navy velvet. It’s a timeless design and would suit most interiors and look particularly striking in period homes against patterned wallpaper. Once you’ve chosen your headboard colour, it’s all about how to dress the bed. Contrasting colours, like the rust cushion here, bring warmth and interest. The great thing about a headboard in a solid colour is it allows you to introduce pattern through cushions and throws. Notice also how the navy of the headboard ties in with the linear detail in the rug. It's these subtle connections that really give the room a cohesive feel. Photo credit: @amystoddartstudio @snookphotograph Button & Sprung https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/88afc82c-fda1-4ce2-998f-9b2f78d50d44/Stylish+Headboards+-+rustic+wood.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - INTERGRATED HEADBOARD PANEL This was a house I photographed for Modern Rustic magazine, and the full-height wooden headboard was a real standout feature. It was custom-made to carry the same wood used in the living areas, reintroducing the architectural features to the bedroom. Made from wide, horizontal timber planks, it’s much more than just a headboard, as it is integrated with shelving that runs behind it and a floating shelf alongside the bed. It feels minimal yet still inviting and is a clever way to incorporate a headboard into a bedroom. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/03309b54-c1aa-4d49-a065-06445c05e323/Stylish+Headboards+-+velvet+fluted+extra+wide.jpg BLOG - 20 Stylish Headboard Ideas to Refresh Your Bedroom - EXTENDED FLUTED HEADBOARD Last but definitely not least – as one of my favourite styles is the extended headboard. I have one myself where I incorporated the switches for the wall lights either side of the bed, which makes the headboard feel integrated into the bedroom design. Fluted headboards, like this one, have recently become popular as they look plush and have more detail than a plain design. This rich velvet version by Covet House really takes centre stage. The green velvet ottoman ties in perfectly, while the gorgeous beige and deep green-toned bed linen completes the whole look. Photo credit: Covet House https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/cloud-dancer-pantone-2026-how-to-style-it-in-your-home monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - Cloud Dancer (Pantone Colour of the Year 2026): How to Style with Off-White in Your Home - Interior Styling Blog for Real Homes: Ideas, Advice & Inspiration Hi, I’m Sandra, If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe, as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help all you interior enthusiasts to style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. On this blog, I’ll be sharing insightful articles packed with advice, tips, and ideas for home styling and decoration, along with inspiring tours of beautifully styled spaces. Having styled countless homes with very different interiors, I know it’s the final touches and thoughtful curating that make a space magazine-worthy, regardless of whether it’s an architectural masterpiece or filled with high-end furniture. And, rather than focus on one particular interior look or style, I aim to open your eyes to a wide variety so you feel inspired, not limited. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. In this article, I will be looking at Pantone Colour of the Year 2026: Cloud Dancer and why I think it is a great choice for homes, with tips to bring it into your own home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2d86fe46-74b5-4270-b29d-601b6a88a52d/Styling+with+off-white+Katie+Fischer.jpg.jpg BLOG - Cloud Dancer (Pantone Colour of the Year 2026): How to Style with Off-White in Your Home - HOW TO BRING OFF-WHITE INTO YOUR HOME Photo credit Garden Trading https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b06b42d8-3f8e-4ea0-96ab-2c5b0d87789d/Styling+with+off+white+-Caffe+Latte.jpg BLOG - Cloud Dancer (Pantone Colour of the Year 2026): How to Style with Off-White in Your Home - HEAD-TO-TOE IN CLOUD DANCER TONES Photo credit The 1 hotel Miami South Beach photographed by Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ec7e6998-ade4-481b-8d31-c6d1d8ed79b7/Styling+with+off+white+walls.jpg BLOG - Cloud Dancer (Pantone Colour of the Year 2026): How to Style with Off-White in Your Home - OFF-WHITE WALLS TEAMED WITH A BURNT ORANGE SOFA If you have off-white walls but are drawn to coloured furniture and still want it to look sophisticated, opt for pieces like the burnt orange sofa pictured here. Head of Product & Displays at Barker and Stonehouse, Magdalena Gierasinska, suggests adding a touch of contrast with pieces in earthy clay shades, which anchor the palette yet still feel grounded. The result is a space that feels effortlessly balanced, serene, and enduringly elegant. She also suggests dialling up the texture. "While the colour itself is pared back, ramp up the texture when styling at home – think faux furs, sheepskin and bouclé – these tactile materials all beautifully enhance the soft, serene and ethereal qualities of Cloud Dancer. Pair it with rounded silhouettes, ceramic accents, or soft-toned marbles for a harmonious and cohesive style.” The key takeaway here is how earthy-toned furniture looks striking with an off-white backdrop. Photo credit: Barker & Stonehouse https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cfdd2eaf-cb8c-481d-a521-9298e8d79d1a/Styling+with+off-white+sofas+and+cushions.jpg BLOG - Cloud Dancer (Pantone Colour of the Year 2026): How to Style with Off-White in Your Home - OFF-WHITE SOFA, CUSHIONS, AND TABLE LAMP AGAINST A DEEP-TONED BACKDROP The Dutch do off-white in a beautifully intentional way that’s never stark. Here, an off-white sofa contrasts against a rich grey-brown backdrop of the doors and wall - a shade you’ll often see in Dutch paint brands - which instantly adds depth. While it has grey undertones, it is warmer, more earthy. With such a dramatic colour behind, the cushions remain off-white, but vary in texture and are embellished with a stylish trim. Even the lamp plays its part in the interior scheme which is all about using off-white as a contrast to the darker tones. If you are styling with off-white cushions on an off-white sofa, take a cue from the sofa pictured here and mix different textures and/or toned trims. Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a5cf3dd9-0a37-4daf-8aee-5769bfc15c62/Styling+with+off-white+lamps+and+vessels.jpg BLOG - Cloud Dancer (Pantone Colour of the Year 2026): How to Style with Off-White in Your Home - OFF-WHITE TABLE LAMP AND VASES One of the simplest ways to bring off-white into a space is with table lamps, vessels and vases like the gorgeous ceramic ones here by Arteriors. The key to choosing accessories in off-white tones is to opt for pieces with texture and shape, avoiding anything too flat and mass-produced. So the styling takeaway here is to look for natural shapes and forms that look handmade with finishes such as ribbed, patterned, uneven or chalky. Photo credit: Arteriors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e75f5fd2-0f67-4e8c-a15c-6af307dd6089/Styling+with+off-white+artwork.jpg BLOG - Cloud Dancer (Pantone Colour of the Year 2026): How to Style with Off-White in Your Home - ART AND ACCESSORIES Home decor and art are a great way to incorporate off-white tones and add contrast to your room. You could try pairing a canvas or print with an item of furniture such as an accent chair, or simply with an off-white cushion to tie the look together for a more cohesive feel. The abstract canvas pictured here by Desenio is ideal as it’s all white, but if you have a colourful print with a white frame and border, that will also do the trick. Photo credit: Desenio https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/83c642d5-3cad-4356-93b7-42ee90ec7cc9/Styling+with+off+white+beds.jpg BLOG - Cloud Dancer (Pantone Colour of the Year 2026): How to Style with Off-White in Your Home - OFF-WHITE BED FRAME AND HEADBOARD A headboard or bed frame can bring off-white into the bedroom, especially if you want darker tones, wallpaper or a colour on your wall. This bed by Atkin and Thyme has been upholstered in tactile looped bouclé in off-white, with a plush fluted headboard. It works well with the neutral-toned wall behind and the brown and green bed linen, showing us again that Cloud Dancer tones are a good base for the earthy, warm shades that are so popular at the moment. Photo credit: Atkin and Thyme https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2e78363b-df0d-4b84-bd0b-34a3e01360dd/Styling+with+off+white+lighting.jpg BLOG - Cloud Dancer (Pantone Colour of the Year 2026): How to Style with Off-White in Your Home - TEXTURAL OFF-WHITE PENDANT LIGHTS This statement pendant light, made by overlapping layers of coconut shells, is a perfect example of how off-white can be used in richly textured materials with a stunning effect. Far from flat, when lit, it lets light filter through in soft patterns. The light pictured here is by Arteriors, and because of its texture, still stands out in an off-white interior. The key takeaway is to have textiles that have depth and interest for a fresh and organic look. Photo credit: Arteriors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e1b2b91c-2cf0-4586-b5a9-0b1ae009caf6/Styling+with+off-white+rugs.jpg BLOG - Cloud Dancer (Pantone Colour of the Year 2026): How to Style with Off-White in Your Home - BRINGING IN OFF-WHITE WITH A RUG An off-white rug is another brilliant way to incorporate Cloud Dancer tones into your home, especially if you have dark walls as shown in the image here. The soft tone of this plush rug really lifts the overall aesthetic, especially teamed with another off-white element, like the marble table in the image, which ties in beautifully with the rug. This particular rug by The Rug Society features subtle markings in neutral tones, which are actually a tribute to tattoos, bringing them in a creative way into interior design. It’s an example of how off-white can act as a grounding base for deeper neutrals, while also brightening up an otherwise dark interior. Photo credit: Rug’Society https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/157f3289-2593-41c7-b01b-4997f3ba8f2e/styling+with+off-white+furniture.jpg BLOG - Cloud Dancer (Pantone Colour of the Year 2026): How to Style with Off-White in Your Home - OFF-WHITE ACCENT CHAIR AND CURTAINS COMBINED WITH COLOUR The armchair and sheer curtains pictured here really stand out against the olive green wall. Both are similar off-white tones, which give a sense of cohesion, but most importantly, they balance out the depth of the green. Off-white allows bolder colours to shine while still keeping the overall look stylish. This off-white chair by Atkin and Thyme doesn’t compete with the green but instead enhances it, as do the curtains. So the takeaway here is how off-white looks simply stunning teamed with a rich colour. Photo credit: Atkin and Thyme https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/stylish-home-tour-17th-century-manor monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: A 17th Century Manor Styled with Quintessential English Charm and a Scandi Twist - Welcome to the BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra, If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe, as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help all you interior enthusiasts to style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. On this blog, I’ll be sharing inspiring tours of beautifully styled spaces, along with insightful articles packed with advice, tips, and ideas for home styling and decoration. Having styled countless different homes, I am able to introduce you to a wide variety of interior styles and aesthetics, rather than focusing on a single look. Today’s post takes you on a tour of a quintessential 17th-century house with lots of ideas to steal, from pattern drenching in the bedroom to styling with Moroccan global finds in the living room. The Manor House is also featured in my blog post featuring stunning vacation homes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c87e5350-6094-4e01-b382-efd3a4207a24/Interior+Style+Host-home+tours-Shalfleet-fireplace.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: A 17th Century Manor Styled with Quintessential English Charm and a Scandi Twist - A STUNNING QUINTESSENTIALLY ENGLISH MANOR Photo credit Garden Trading https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5dbfd39a-6999-4e08-8e39-1ef81e1368ff/House+Tour-shalfleet+in+the+snow.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: A 17th Century Manor Styled with Quintessential English Charm and a Scandi Twist - SHALFLEET IN THE SNOW Shalfleet, pictured here, looks glorious in the snow. Victoria purchased the property in early spring, and by the summer had started the daunting project of renovating six bedrooms, five reception rooms, four bathrooms, and two entrance halls before moving on to the farmhouse and cottage, which were also part of the estate! Although the manor house had all the structural characteristics, it was in need of restoring and modernising. Travelling back and forth by ferry from the mainland meant the renovation was a true labour of love for Victoria. Over a few months, she managed to have the house rewired, repainted, and transformed from a time-worn, run-down house to a period home with all its grandeur and the necessary modern comforts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4260d0b0-4cdd-4f15-9f54-335fb7aab427/Interior+Style+Host+-+Beautifully+styled+vacation+homes+-+Shalfleet+drawing+room.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: A 17th Century Manor Styled with Quintessential English Charm and a Scandi Twist - THE ORNATE FIREPLACE Photo credit The 1 hotel Miami South Beach photographed by Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d76a8017-3a9e-4525-b62a-516445d13144/Interior+Style+Host+-+Beautifully+styled+vacation+homes+-+Shalfleet+Conservatory.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: A 17th Century Manor Styled with Quintessential English Charm and a Scandi Twist - THE ORANGERY The orangery is my favourite room, and being filled with light, it was easy to shoot. I love the rugged texture of the old honey-toned stone wall, juxtaposed with a crisp white sofa and rich, velvet-patterned cushions. The flagstone floor gives it that country house feel, while the dark, ornate chandelier brings contrast to the light scheme. Next to the sofa, Victoria has added a big wicker basket full of cushions for outside and blankets, ready for those summer evenings. Key Styling Takeaways: This look is all about mixing rustic with refined. Both the wall and floor are rugged and original, and in neutral tones, so you can see how the cushions stand out and bring colour and luxurious texture to the room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/322aa73a-af55-4238-b3ca-3dc1ed3538e4/Interior+Style+Host-home+tours-Shalfleet-Kitchen.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: A 17th Century Manor Styled with Quintessential English Charm and a Scandi Twist - SHAKER-STYLE COUNTRY KITCHEN According to Victoria, the kitchen was the easiest room to refurbish and came complete with an Aga cooker. The cabinetry was actually good quality and a timeless Shaker style, so she just repainted the cupboards with a classic greyish-green colour and replaced the old worktop with a more contemporary composite. I love the imposing aged beams which really add character to the kitchen, contrasting with the pale tones of the walls and cabinets. Key Styling Takeaways: Victoria added a few stylish touches, including a jug of just-picked wildflowers, herbs in rustic wooden bowls, and a patterned pitcher. These bring nature and colour to the room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8d27fcfa-2ecb-43a5-9bbd-7d3339026fa5/Interior+Style+Host-home+tours-Shalfleet.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: A 17th Century Manor Styled with Quintessential English Charm and a Scandi Twist - NEUTRAL-TONED DINING ROOM The key feature in the dining room is the bleached mango wood dining table, commissioned by Victoria from British furniture designer Susie Watson. This works perfectly with the neutral colour scheme and jute flooring. To add a more contemporary feel, Victoria has paired the table with a bunch of Philippe Starck’s transparent acrylic Ghost chairs. The fireplace is no longer in use, but as it’s still a beautiful feature in the room, we emphasised it by placing a vast vintage glass vase with flowers from the garden on the floor. Key Styling Takeaways: We kept the styling on the mantelpiece simple, with a decorative mirror to reflect and bounce off the light and a fish sculpture to bring in a coastal touch. The trailing plant and vase of fresh lilac bring a dose of greenery into the room and are echoed by the flowers, fruit and glasses on the table. Finally, the rattan deer head is an attractive touch that brings all the beige tones together and reminds us we are in the countryside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/83c3639f-b6bb-48c9-853f-6a65ed6990e8/Interior+Style+Host-home+tours-ShalfleetStaircase.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: A 17th Century Manor Styled with Quintessential English Charm and a Scandi Twist - ENTRYWAY WITH POPS OF RED Shalfleet has several entrances, including an impressive hallway lined with what looks like old books made out of telephone directories. But this smaller entryway, tucked away next to a back staircase, is so appealing. On an antique-style console table, Victoria has displayed a book all about Shalfleet, a sculptural diver, and a vintage glass vase with a simple branch of red flowers, which ties in with the red stripe on the staircase runner. Key Styling Takeaways: The flowers and book have been strategically placed to team up with the red of the stair runner. These pops of red really stand out against the neutral backdrop. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ee359d87-44d3-4726-a46c-a53099ca6809/Interior+Style+Host-home+tours-ShalfleetLiving+room.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: A 17th Century Manor Styled with Quintessential English Charm and a Scandi Twist - THE ELEGANT LIVING ROOM The living room is spacious, light and airy with white lime-washed wooden floors, while the low ceilings and original beams add a sense of cosiness. An imposing fireplace, which runs through the middle of the house, has a pale stone surround which is a beautiful contrast to the soft grey walls. While Victoria was doing up the house, she sourced three intricately carved Moroccan trunks which she has repurposed as side tables, bringing a touch of global character to the English country style. Victoria opted for elegant, classic-style chairs and sofas upholstered in natural textures, including striped ticking and linens, to bring a fresh coastal feel to the room. Key Styling Takeaways: Along with the flowers and throw, the standout styling element from this living room is the thoughtful furniture placement. With such a spacious layout, Victoria has cleverly divided the room into two seating areas, each anchored both by a rug so the furniture doesn't feel lost and the space feels more cosy. A Morrocan trunk has been positioned behind the sofa creating a more considered view. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4add0012-3906-4e63-a11f-2bb6598706a1/Interior+Style+Host+-+decorative+trunk+with+candles+and+lantern+at+Shalfleet+manor.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: A 17th Century Manor Styled with Quintessential English Charm and a Scandi Twist - LIVING ROOM STYLISH DETAILS For the magazines, we styled one of the trunks with a large, pierced-metal lantern and a pair of candle holders in a mix of textures and varying heights. To complete the vignette, we placed a plant in a rustic terracotta pot next to a vase of lilac, freshly gathered from the garden that morning. Key Styling Takeaway: This vignette looks gorgeous both in the day and in the evening, with the candles from the lantern and the candle holders providing a warm glow. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b184061b-b5b3-4d69-8f33-2d23bc1cfca9/Interior+Style+Host-home+tours-ShalfleetMaster+bedroom.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: A 17th Century Manor Styled with Quintessential English Charm and a Scandi Twist - SPACIOUS MASTER BEDROOM WITH AQUA TONES With its elegant buttoned headboard and layers of crisp white linen, the spacious master bedroom gives you that feeling of understated luxury. To maintain the historic features running through the house, while preserving the light, airy feel in the bedroom, Victoria chose to whitewash the original beams which run from one side of the bedroom to the other. Key Styling Takeaway: The blue silk bedspread and printed cushions add those special touches, along with an ottoman in the same fabric as the headboard. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4bad979a-52f4-40e4-92e1-2a45cb7107f7/Interior+Style+Host-home+tours-ShalfleetMaster+bathroom++copy.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: A 17th Century Manor Styled with Quintessential English Charm and a Scandi Twist - CLASSIC BATHROOM The master bathroom is classic with a contemporary edge. Here, Victoria opted for a modern take on a traditional freestanding bath, which she placed under the window at the end of the room. The round cabinet in a light green gives an on-trend feel to the bathroom and has plenty of space for hand towels and soap. Soft grey walls and marble herringbone flooring create a calm backdrop for Victoria's stylish bathroom accessories. Key Styling Takeaway: Here it’s all about details like the striped hammam towels draped over a rustic wooden ladder, a woven basket for essentials, attractive product bottles, plants, and a couple of personal artefacts on the windowsill. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c1d948ee-58c2-4f3a-bb89-307e4d222a2b/Interior+Style+Host-House+tours-Shalfleet+bedroom.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: A 17th Century Manor Styled with Quintessential English Charm and a Scandi Twist - PATTERN-DRENCHED BEDROOM Embracing the mixing of pattern-on-pattern, Victoria has paired an upholstered headboard in a soft blue floral print with delicate chinoiserie design wallpaper. The different scales and motifs add depth and interest to the room, and the blue tones complement rather than clash, pattern drenching all the way. The painted bedside table adds another shade of blue to the scheme, and if you look carefully, you’ll see that the top of the cabinet has a map of the island as a rather special feature. Key Styling Takeaway: Here it’s the final touches that tie everything together, including a denim-blue linen cushion and star motif throw, as well as the blue bedside table. All are in complementary blue tones that blend rather than clash. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5ed422ab-c068-4b33-9c5a-5b45d0c2799d/Interior+Style+Host-home+tours-ShalfleetGuest+bedroom+one.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: A 17th Century Manor Styled with Quintessential English Charm and a Scandi Twist - SOFT MINT-TONED GUEST BEDROOM This is such a pretty bedroom, with the white cane woven bed frame set against delicate print mint-toned wallpaper. The mix of crisp white furniture, muted tones, and just a few well-chosen accessories keeps the bedroom feeling serene. Key Styling Takeaway: The bedroom was styled with three cushions in soft green tones with a gorgeous silk bedspread. We added a vase of flowers and a potted plant to bring in a splash of green and nature to the scheme. There is also a grey throw and sheepskin to bring another tone into the room so it isn't only green and white. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a184a4d4-f211-4718-b747-746ce06d7414/Interior+Style+Host-home+tours-Shalfleetkidsbedroom.jpg BLOG - Stylish Home Tour: A 17th Century Manor Styled with Quintessential English Charm and a Scandi Twist - THE KIDS ROOM STYLED WITH STARS Designed with kids in mind, this bedroom sleeps six. It’s in the attic with dark timber original beams standing out as a feature against the whitewashed walls and oatmeal carpet. Victoria has designed this room with matching tongue and groove beds, dressing them with stars and stripes bedspreads and blue or red star cushions as that final decorative touch. The overall look is a mix of coastal meets New England style. Key styling takeaways: Victoria has added thoughtful touches like curtains with stars, bedside lamps and bunting, all to bring a sense of fun to the children’s bedroom. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/miffy-design-icon monthly 0.5 2026-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - How Miffy became a Design Icon in Interiors and Fashion - Welcome to the BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra, If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe, as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help all you interior enthusiasts to style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. On this blog, I’ll be sharing insightful articles packed with advice, tips, and ideas for home styling and decoration, along with inspiring tours of beautifully styled spaces. Having styled countless homes with very different interiors, I know it’s the final touches and thoughtful curating that make a space magazine-worthy, regardless of whether it’s an architectural masterpiece or filled with high-end furniture. And, rather than focus on one particular interior look or style, I aim to open your eyes to a wide variety so you feel inspired, not limited. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. In this blog post, I thought I’d feature something rather fun: Miffy, who leapt from the pages of children’s books to become a design and fashion icon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e6e78d47-24c3-4da4-9aba-a835bb9eb9d5/Miffy+at+the+conservatorium.jpg BLOG - How Miffy became a Design Icon in Interiors and Fashion - MEET MIFFY THE BUNNY WHO’S BOTH THE CHILDREN’S FAVOURITE AND A GLOBAL DESIGN ICON Pictured here at The Conservatorium Hotel Amsterdam by artist Raphaël Hermans Photos: Sandra van Aalst at The Conservatorium Amsterdam https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/bdbb77fb-520e-408d-9745-64b15893f857/Diamond+Miffy.jpg BLOG - How Miffy became a Design Icon in Interiors and Fashion - MIFFY THE DIAMOND RABBIT AND HIGH-END FASHION ICON DIAMOND MIFFY “Diamond Miffy” in front of Royal Coster Diamonds, next to the Diamond Museum Amsterdam https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8f4c04bb-60e1-416a-8952-bf820f18b1f5/Miffy+at+The+St+Adams+Hotel.jpg BLOG - How Miffy became a Design Icon in Interiors and Fashion - FROM THE NURSERY TO THE DISCO GET THE LOOK AT HOME Below is a list of all the different elements Emma has used in her natural foraged displays. You don’t have to have every item as you can still get the look with branches, alternative greenery and pine cones. If you don’t have access to dried or preserved flowers, you can use fresh flowers by placing them in a water tube, which you can purchase from Amazon. You can tuck the water tube into the foliage to disguise it. DRIED HYDRANGEA HEADS BRACKEN OR FERN THAT, BY DYING BACK, HAS NATURALLY BRONZED RED FRESH HELLEBORES EVERGREEN FIR OR EUCALYPTUS DRIED SLICED AND WHOLE CLEMENTINES BRANCHES OF RED BERRIES OR ROSE HIP PINECONES OLD MAN’S BEARD GLASS BAUBLES FAIRY LIGHTS STRING OR FLORISTS' WIRE https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f583ffc7-5241-4773-a711-c17c0f6ca13e/Miffy+light.jpg BLOG - How Miffy became a Design Icon in Interiors and Fashion - MIFFY DESIGN LAMPS AS STATEMENT PIECES ADD A SNOWY TEXTURE WITH OLD MAN’S BEARD In the display on the left, and in the box on the right are the dried flowers of Clematis vitalba, known more commonly as old man's beard. It grows wild and is often seen in the hedgerows. Its flowers, when dry, form cloud-like, fluffy clumps, and with its snowy texture, contrasts beautifully against the deep green of the fir. Hang it bunched together, like in the arrangement above, to lighten up a display. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/618ece69-95f4-4ed1-bcf3-465b5044dc35/Miffy+blanket.jpg BLOG - How Miffy became a Design Icon in Interiors and Fashion - MIFFY HOMEWARE BEYOND THE NURSERY DRYING ORANGES Emma has repeated the dried oranges in different ways on decorations throughout the hotel, including the Christmas trees. It’s such a natural way to add colour and that festive feel. You can add them to your gift wrap, use them in your table decorations and hang them on the tree. Follow the instructions below to create your own dried orange decorations. WHAT YOU WILL NEED Small oranges or clementines, a sharp knife Oven, warming drawer or dehydrator FOR ORANGES WITH SCORING Use a sharp knife to cut vertical lines around the orange. Gently cut even lines from top to bottom, like segments through the peel. Try not to cut into the flesh. The peel will pull back slightly as it dries, creating that striped pattern you can see in the image here. You don’t need to remove the flesh as this will shrink and dry up once the orange is in the oven. FOR SLICED ORANGES Slice your oranges or clementines into thin slices of around 5mm. Blot gently with a paper towel to soak up any excess juice. THE DRYING PROCESS Place your oranges or slices on a baking tray in the oven on low heat of around 100°C / 200°F for 3 to 4 hours. To help them dry evenly, turn them every hour. If you are drying whole oranges, they may need a bit longer. To tell if they are fully dried, they should no longer be sticky. Leave them to cool. FINAL TOUCHES Turn your dried orange slices into natural garlands. Use a needle and thread to attach them to each other then tie with ribbon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5dccea12-869e-4fd6-aae3-72cd564c578c/Miffy+Cath+kidson+mug+.jpg BLOG - How Miffy became a Design Icon in Interiors and Fashion - MIFFY MUGS AND MORE Cath Kidston is known for her beautiful hand-drawn florals on cups, aprons, handbags and more, and used Miffy in her designs, producing a few gorgeous pieces like the cup pictured here. It’s been described as an ‘artful merging of illustrative worlds’. Like most celebrities, Miffy has a top-to-toe body range with hand creams, body lotion and other cosmetics, with the packaging and product bottles also designed by Cath Kidston. You can find Cath Kidston x Miffy cups and tableware, as well as cosmetics, all at Next. Photo credit: Next https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e97d48a2-ca11-4ae0-a212-5d31e1622ec0/Miffy+Christmas+decoration.jpg BLOG - How Miffy became a Design Icon in Interiors and Fashion - BAUBLE MIFFY RUSTIC MEETS REFINED STYLE TREE WITH NATURAL DECORATIONS In contrast to the natural, foraged style displays, this Christmas tree leans more towards classic festive elegance. Emma has decorated it in a timeless palette with rich red, antique gold, and warm copper baubles, sitting alongside organic elements. Emma has mixed textures such as plush velvet and metallics for sheen, and teamed these with handmade, traditional touches like dried orange slices and cinnamon. She has also woven in bundles of cinnamon sticks tied with ribbon, which she hangs just like baubles. When decorating your tree, it’s about getting the balance of your festive ingredients right so that it feels luxurious yet also homemade, and always elevated by fairy lights. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/festive-candles-candleholders monthly 0.5 2026-03-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - Welcome to the BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra. If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe (see below) as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help you style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. On this blog, I’ll be sharing insightful articles packed with advice, tips, and ideas for home styling and decoration, along with inspiring tours of beautifully styled spaces. Having styled countless homes with very different interiors, I know it’s the final touches and thoughtful curating that make a space magazine-worthy, regardless of whether it’s an architectural masterpiece or filled with high-end furniture. And, rather than focus on one particular interior look or style, I aim to open your eyes to a wide variety so you feel inspired, not limited. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. In this week’s blog post, I will show you all sorts of different types of candles and candle holders you could style around your home during the festive season. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c527430f-ddd0-4b71-bc29-750885939ed1/Styling+with+candles-festive+Meri+Meri.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - STYLING WITH CANDLES DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON Photo credit: Meri Meri https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c84aeb10-7401-45ab-b3da-7a5efda2bc85/Styling+with+candles+-scented+candles.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - FESTIVE SCENTED CANDLES The festive season is a time for wintry scents to waft around the home, so before we look at candles for decoration purposes, I’m going to give you my pick of scented candles that come in jars or tins. You can style them next to a sprig of seasonal foliage or with your other candles on a mantelpiece or tablescape. Here are some of the best ones around with different wintry scents: La Bougie - Mission Fig (pictured here), Fir Baby! and A Christmas Cracker Diptyque – Sapin (pine tree), Ambre, and Holiday Carousel. Plum & Ashby - Fir Balsam & Winter Berries, Cedarwood & Pine Needles, Dried Orange & Cinnamon Bark, and Spiced Orange & Red Berry St. Eval – Winter Thyme, Orange and Cinnamon, and Inspiritus. Lafco – Winter Balsam and Fireside Oak. Byredo - Bibliothèque and Tree House Little Moments Melts – The Christmas Tree NEOM Organics – Perfect Peace The White Company – Winter scent Jo Malone London – Pine & Eucalyptus, Orange Bitters, and Frosted Cherry & Clove Cire Trudon – Nazareth Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d0611355-5be8-4d19-81e1-9dcf80f56b65/Styling+with+candles-+leg+candles+Rockett+St+George.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - CANDLES WITH BOWS AND KICKING LEG HOLDERS These quirky bronze kicking legs and sexy legs candle holders from Rockett St George add a huge dose of style and personality to any surface. The great thing about these unusual candle holders is that you can add Christmassy candles for the festive season and keep them displayed with regular candles the rest of the year. The candles pictured here with gold bow detailing will transform any regular candle holder into a festive piece. Here, they have been styled on a mirrored tray where the light can bounce around and reflect the legs. Rockett St George also have other quirky candle holders, including a mermaid, angel, and peacock, to name but a few. You can also check out Etsy, Amazon, and other home stores, who have all sorts, including animals, fish, palm trees, and even people candle holders. Photo credit: Rockett St George https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4f52933e-7c74-4065-b80e-8f9e85066548/Styling+with+candles+-colour-benjamin+Moore.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - MODERN CANDLE HOLDERS DECORATED WITH FESTIVE BOWS This festive line-up is simple yet so effective. The twisted candles create movement and height, while conical candle holders add that contemporary edge, giving the mantelpiece a modern classic feel. The addition of the bows in red and green is the key festive element. So even if you have candle holders and sticks that aren’t particularly festive, you can still create that Christmassy feel with ribbons. The rich wall colour behind is Stonecutter by Benjamin Moore, and it adds depth and contrast — proof that dark tones can really make candlelight pop at this time of year. Photo credit: Benjamin Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f59667ee-c70a-4a8e-b54a-fc07e80e93af/Styling+with+candles+-centrepiece-+covet+house.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - FESTIVE TABLE CENTRE PIECE In this elegant interior, three different-sized gold pillar candles, nestled on a circular bed of holly, are a modern take on classic Christmas styling. Grouped together, the candles create a simple yet striking focal point that gives light without competing with the standout feature - the starburst chandelier. Along with the flicker of the candles and the Christmas tree lights, the chandelier by Delightfull from Covet House shines, in the room with festive glow, tying the scheme together. Photo credit: Covet House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/040b6148-75f4-4695-9a47-f6a36233bb59/Styling+festive+candles.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - VIGNETTE ON THE DINING TABLE This year I invested in two gorgeous tall antique brass candle holders by Nkuku, one medium, one large. The small one was out of stock so I asked to be emailed when it was back in. When I placed them on the table, I realised they actually work beautifully as a pair. I used to style in pairs, then it became all about odd numbers and groupings that bring visual harmony. But sometimes, as with these candle holders that are different heights, two simply looks better. A third would overcrowd the look, especially with my giant gold bauble. I’ve styled my vignette next to a plant for added greenery, as well as some gold leaves and bracken around them for a layered festive feel. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0ad209e9-b025-41b0-a653-ca84f32f4771/Styling+with+candles+-table+and+mantel-talking+tables.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - MARBLED CANDLES The tablescape and mantelpiece pictured here are an example that Christmas doesn’t have to be all about green, red, silver and gold. The marble candles from Talking Tables are displayed on both the table and the mantel and really make an impact, elevating the room and still giving out that festive, flickering glow. These candles, which have a marble effect in blues, greens and aquas, are perfect for either blending with the colour palette of your interior scheme, or combining with other decor like the candle glass holders and the paper decorations pictured here. Photo credit: Talking Tables https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/240af823-658b-436e-a8c3-aee7531f628d/Styling+with+candles-glass+candle+holders+H%26M.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - STYLING IN NUMBERS This elegant candlelit setting has that inviting, classic Christmas feel. With no fewer than a dozen candles, this look is about styling in numbers, which creates impact. As the candle holders pictured here by H&M are delicate, clear glass, they don’t clutter the table, and yet still create a dramatic effect. Styling collections of objects always looks impressive in large numbers, and the styling trick here is that the holders add height and are three different sizes, resulting in visual impact, while with their soft, flickering glow, still feels romantic. Photo credit: H&M https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8d2f1d9b-9a5b-4044-bad7-2fea237a25a0/Styling+with+candles+-+tall+brass+holders-mayfair.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - STYLING TALL CANDLE HOLDERS Tall candle holders with different coloured tapered candles light up this unusual festive table with the unexpected twist of herbs and vegetables as a festive runner and an alternative to fir, ivy or other foliage. With the pink and red carnations poking out of the display made from the green parsley, it gives the whole scene a fresh, whimsical vibe that, in a colour scheme of red and green, still feels seasonal. The tall taper candles in elegant brass candle holders from Wayfair bring height to the display, and add just the right touch of shine that can be used on a mantelpiece or other surface all year round. Photo credit: Wayfair https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/966e4830-a6d1-4e2e-8ce1-8487b8812a40/Styling+with+candles+-+antique+bronze++-+The+Cotswold+Company.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - CLASSIC ANTIQUE BRASS FOR THAT COSY CORNER A classic antique brass candle holder instantly gives you that traditional, warm feeling. Paired with deep berry-toned pillar and tapered candle sticks, these heritage-inspired holders and candles from The Cotswold Company could be displayed on a hearth, console, or in the centre of a dining table with a few sprigs of fir, eucalyptus, or other seasonal foliage. I like the way that they have been grouped together as a four, which shows that even numbers also work in a vignette, especially when each one is a different shape and size. Photo credit: The Cotswold Company https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5fc9088f-8eaa-4774-a882-55a66ba99853/Styling+with+candles+-faux+candles+-lights4fun.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - FAUX CANDLES TO LIGHT UP CHRISTMAS GIFTS More of us are wrapping gifts, or even empty boxes, to display as part of the Christmas décor. I do the same and bring them out as styling props each year. I must say, until I’d seen this image, I hadn’t thought about placing candles amongst the gifts. It makes under the tree or another corner of the room feel magical, bringing instant warmth and drawing your eye to the wrapped gifts. But do, of course, ensure you use imitation candles, like these realistic-looking pillar candles from Lights4fun, for safe, festive sparkle. Check out how the pros wrap presents for ideas in my recent post www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/natural-festive-decorations .Photo credit: Lights4fun https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9cc31e3e-5e25-4c4c-96fe-80f3a8489979/styling+with+candles+-+in+tins-+Little+Moments+Melts.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - STYLING WITH SCENTED CANDLES You can also style your scented candles by placing them on a bed of festive foliage. I love dotting them around the home and also styling them next to a sprig of fir or holly in the hallway to greet guests as they enter. This one is in a tin from Little Moments Melts and is hand-poured using vegan-friendly soy wax and blended with premium fragrance oil for a clean, more healthy burn. Their ‘Christmas Tree’ scent is a good one for this time of year. Check out my Scented candle list at the beginning of this article. Photo credit: Little Moments Melts https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/950c5112-818b-4f25-83e3-9b9c00687d14/Styling+with+festive+candles.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - TRADITIONAL CANDLE TRAIN If you have kids and want Christmas decorations to be stylish yet playful, you could opt for a fun candle holder like the train pictured here. It’s a whimsical way to bring candlelight into your festive styling. If you have a novelty candle holder like this one, you can style it on a surface with festive foliage or seasonal flowers like the white poinsettias shown here. Photo credit: Stars for Europe https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e6a6d903-d794-40b8-ba7b-6992a5876422/Styling+with+candles+-dining+table+styling+Domkapa.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - SOPHISTICATED SETTING STYLED WITH CANDLES AND FOLIAGE RUNNER The focus on the festive table featured here is natural textures paired with neutral tones. The tablescape is elegant and the setting feels so considered, with the tall taper candles evenly spaced along the centre of the table, styled simply next to festive greenery and pine cones. With its rich wood and tactile finishes, the table and chairs by Domkapa set the scene for a candlelight dinner. Photo credit: Domkapa https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/858f5000-0452-4988-8c8d-3d0b2f922b4e/Christmas+styling-mantlepiece.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - GLASS CANDLESTICK WITH FOLIAGE This was my own rustic-style mantelpiece in my self-build home. I thought I’d show it in this article, as it’s a timeless look I loved and works so well because of the natural French-style stone fire surround. I started with a natural faux garland, which came complete with fairy lights already attached to it. I then poked in real branches of fir to give it that authentic and draped-over-the-edge effect. I used a tall glass candlestick for height, and as extra touches, I hung up oversized frosted pine cones. If you want to hang pine cones, stockings or baubles from your mantelpiece, you should be able to use mantelpiece hooks which you just clip on. Alternatively, you could use tape hidden under your foliage or garland. Frog masking tape is best and can be used on painted surfaces. Check out my blog post on natural, rustic styling in my post on Festive Styling and Decoration Ideas, to see the rest of my house decorated for the festive season. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/52a51685-6d50-427b-8a85-c17f39716b08/Styling+with+candles+-traditional-+Casa+by+JJ.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - CLASSIC SETTING WITH SILVER CANDLEHOLDER The silver-plated candlestick holders are beautifully understated and strike just the right balance between traditional and luxurious. A true Christmas palette in rich greens and red is carried through from the tablecloth, plates and red roses, even to the cushions, for a cohesive look. The red taper candle adds height and pairs perfectly with the napkin bow and red roses. These elegant silver holders are from Casa by JJ, and are the kind of classic piece you’ll want to bring out year after year. Photo credit: Casa by JJ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/41390b91-2f69-4551-be3e-d3cab23b6c20/Christmas+styling-interiorstylehost-tablescape+copy+2.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - STYLED IN SILVER This is my own Christmas tablescape, which was simple to create with pine cones, sprigs of fir, silver baubles and an eclectic mix of candles – basically anything I could find in silver. I call it my layered candlelight look, as I combined three completely different types of candles, including a tea light in a shimmering mercury glass lantern, a sculptural silver candle holder with a regular candle for height and elegance, and a chunky, textured pillar candle. The overall look is festive, but in a more wintry way, with the candlelight bringing the table to life. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ec3c0c33-6c81-406c-83c1-829742f3288e/styling+with+candles+-+faux+indoor+candles+Lights4fun.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - FAUX CANDLES TO LIGHT UP YOUR STAIR CASE Many of us weave fairy lights or a garland around the banisters of our staircase to bring festive cheer to a rather overlooked area of the home. But now, thanks to faux candles, you can take your stair decoration one step further. Whether your staircase is in a living area or hallway, there’s something rather special about softly glowing candles lighting up the stairs at Christmas. Pictured here are a mixture of realistic faux candles in varying heights and colours from Lights4fun, adding that glow and flicker of light without the worry of open flames. Nestled between the candles are a few baubles and little toadstool lights for that woodland feel. Photo credit: Lights4fun https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6d61bb87-6c54-4fc2-9d60-136a0d8767eb/styling+with+candles+-tree+candle+holder-Melody+Maison.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - CHRISTMAS TREE CANDLE HOLDER If you want your candle holder to be really Christmassy, this charming little Christmas tree is for you. This design by Melody Maison has an antique gold finish, which gives it a warm glow whether lit or not. If you have a Christmas tree candle holder, you can style it like this one in a pared-back Scandi set-up, by layering textures in a more maximalist scheme, or amongst some festive foliage. Photo credit: Melody Maison https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c37b444f-77dc-4728-a4f1-94e0c20b8988/Styling+with+candles-Stag+head-Annabel+James.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - SILVER STAG CANDELABRA AS YOUR TABLE CENTRE PIECE There’s nothing quite like a candelabra, and the silver stag head pictured here makes a striking wintery centrepiece for a festive table. I have a stag head candle that I bring out as part of my Christmas decor each year, but don’t dare light it as the whole piece is made of wax. The silver deer head here is by Annabel James and is surrounded by moss for that woodland-inspired touch. Its elegant, sculpted silver finish adds a sense of grandeur and is perfect displayed on a more traditional tablescape with delicate crystal glasses, a linen cloth and classic tableware. Photo credit: Annabel James https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e3e425db-2948-405a-8b9c-585aba897fa4/Styling+with+candles-round+metal+hanging-Heavenly+Homes+and+Gardens.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - HANGING CANDLE CHANDLEIER If you really want to impress your guests this Christmas and create an atmospheric glow above your table, use a candle chandelier, like the metal circular one pictured here from Heavenly Homes and Gardens. Place a hook in the ceiling and suspend the chandelier over your table. This piece has ivy woven around it to give it a more organic, festive feel. Other foliage, such as fir, eucalyptus or holly, also works, although ivy is ideal as, due to its length, it's easy to wind around. Alternatively, add a mixture of foliage, seasonal flowers or dried oranges, and turn it into a stunning suspended festive wreath. Photo credit: Heavenly Homes and Gardens https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d7d4f091-c673-446e-9ebf-37bb39639f0b/styling+with+candles+-+Faux+candles+for+outdoor+Lights4fun+copy.jpg BLOG - Festive Candles and Candle Holders: How to Decorate with Candlelight in the festive season - MAGICAL OUTDOOR CANDLELIGHT Set the tone by placing candlelight and other outdoor Christmas lights by your front door - even if it’s just a candle or two. This Christmas porch is a perfect example of how to use lighting in an enchanting way. The glowing stars, fairy lights on miniature trees, and waterproof faux candles pictured here are all from Lights4fun and instantly create a magical atmosphere. You can also rest assured that the flickering flames of faux candles are completely safe and won’t blow out, even if it’s raining or windy. Photo credit: Lights4fun https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/natural-festive-decorations monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - Natural Festive Decorations by the Pros: How to Get the Look at Home - Welcome to the BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra, If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe, as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help all you interior enthusiasts to style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. On this blog, I’ll be sharing inspiring tours of beautifully styled spaces, along with insightful articles packed with advice, tips, and ideas for home styling and decoration. Having styled countless different homes, I am able to introduce you to a wide variety of interior styles and aesthetics, rather than focusing on a single look. Today’s post goes behind the scenes with the florists in action decorating 5 star style at Chewton Glen hotel, with natural, foraged-style festive decorations, combined with a more traditional look. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ad9444cc-c2f4-4994-b8d4-81141a504b65/Festive+decorations-interiorsttylehost.jpg BLOG - Natural Festive Decorations by the Pros: How to Get the Look at Home - FORAGED STYLE MEETS TRADITIONAL FESTIVE DECORATIONS Photos: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/64c6e10e-0c42-490f-abd4-ab29cbf2e652/Festive+styling+close+up+and+on+arch.jpg BLOG - Natural Festive Decorations by the Pros: How to Get the Look at Home - Make it stand out FORAGED-STYLE FESTIVE DISPLAYS Wild, textural and richly layered, these stunning installations show that you don’t need glitter and shine to make an impact during the festive season. Just a few branches and natural elements put together, like the arrangements above, can look super stylish. The displays pictured here are created from an interesting mix with large dried hydrangea heads in faded pinks, bronzed bracken, sprigs of fir, branches with berries and pine cones, combined with dried oranges and just the odd bauble in either glass or copper. Emma has cleverly styled each arrangement in an unstructured way, which gives the display a sense of movement. She started by placing the evergreen foliage, branches and bracken, using wire to attach them to a metal archway. The arrangement on the right, however, is just hanging from a hook, so Emma put this together on the table, layering the bracken on top of the fir, then poking in hydrangea heads and a few well-placed glass baubles to add just a touch of glamour. You could create a display like this yourself on a table, then hang it from a hook on the wall or ceiling. Alternatively, you can use a tension rod, which you can buy from Amazon, and place in a doorway or from one wall to another, working around it like Emma has on the metal arches. A stair banister also works really well. Read on for the list of exactly what you need to make an arrangement. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/32ccc088-ee7e-4227-8ca2-576d5ef3a3f6/Festive+decorations+-+florists+at+work+and+pinecones.jpg BLOG - Natural Festive Decorations by the Pros: How to Get the Look at Home - Make it stand out GET THE LOOK AT HOME Below is a list of all the foliage and various elements Emma has used in her natural foraged displays. You don’t have to have every item as you can improvise with branches, alternative greenery and pine cones. If you don’t have access to dried or preserved flowers, you can use fresh flowers by placing them in a water tube, which you can purchase from Amazon. You can tuck the water tube into the foliage to disguise it. LIST OF ELEMENTS DRIED HYDRANGEA HEADS BRACKEN OR FERN THAT, BY DYING BACK, HAS NATURALLY BRONZED RED FRESH HELLEBORES EVERGREEN FIR OR EUCALYPTUS DRIED SLICED AND WHOLE CLEMENTINES BRANCHES OF RED BERRIES OR ROSE HIP PINECONES OLD MAN’S BEARD GLASS OR BRONZE BAUBLES FAIRY LIGHTS STRING OR FLORIST’S WIRE https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f49a694-5ce0-4911-b534-d6b8ce335d78/Festive+decrations+-florist+arranging.jpg BLOG - Natural Festive Decorations by the Pros: How to Get the Look at Home - Make it stand out DRYING ORANGES Emma has repeatedly used dried oranges as decorations in different ways throughout the hotel, including on the Christmas trees. Sliced and bunched together or whole, dried oranges are such a natural way to add colour and that festive feel to a display. You can add them to your gift wrap, use them as part of your table decorations or hang them on the tree. Follow the instructions below to create your own dried orange decorations. WHAT YOU WILL NEED Small oranges, tangerines or clementines and a sharp knife. Oven, warming drawer or dehydrator. FOR ORANGES WITH SCORING Use a sharp knife to cut vertical lines around the orange, so they look like the oranges pictured here. Gently cut even lines from top to bottom, like segments through the peel. Try not to cut into the flesh. The peel will pull back slightly as it dries, creating that striped pattern you can see in the image here. You don’t need to remove the flesh as this will shrink and dry up once the orange is in the oven. FOR SLICED ORANGES Slice your oranges or clementines into thin slices of around 5 mm. Blot gently with a paper towel to soak up any excess juice. THE DRYING PROCESS Place your oranges or slices on a baking tray in the oven on a low heat of around 100°C / 200°F for 3 to 4 hours. Alternatively, you can dry them out in a dehydrator or warming drawer. To help them dry evenly, turn them every hour. If you are drying whole oranges, they may need a bit longer. To tell if they are fully dried, they should no longer be sticky. Leave them to cool. FINAL TOUCHES Turn your dried orange slices into natural garlands. Use a needle and thread to attach them to each other, then tie with ribbon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/31731a00-d548-45ba-9927-861a35a397a7/Festive+decorations+with+old+man%27s+beard.jpg BLOG - Natural Festive Decorations by the Pros: How to Get the Look at Home - Make it stand out ADD A SNOWY TEXTURE WITH OLD MAN’S BEARD In the display on the left, and in the box in the picture on the right, are the dried flowers of clematis vitalba, known more commonly as old man's beard. It grows wild and is often seen in the hedgerows. Its flowers, when dry, form cloud-like, fluffy clumps, and with its snowy texture, contrast beautifully against the deep green of foliage. Hang it bunched together, as in the arrangement above, to lighten up a display. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/300297ed-a97f-476a-9ccc-b752709d5386/Festive+decorations-traditional+tree+.jpg BLOG - Natural Festive Decorations by the Pros: How to Get the Look at Home - Make it stand out RUSTIC MEETS REFINED ON THE CHRISTMAS TREE In contrast to the natural, foraged style displays, this Christmas tree leans more towards classic festive elegance. Emma has decorated it in a timeless palette with rich red, antique gold, and warm copper baubles, sitting alongside organic elements. Emma has mixed textures such as plush velvet and metallics for sheen, and teamed these with handmade, traditional touches like dried orange slices and cinnamon. She has also woven in bundles of cinnamon sticks tied with ribbon, which she hangs just like baubles. When decorating your tree, it’s about getting the balance of your festive ingredients right so that it feels luxurious yet also homemade, and always elevated by fairy lights. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b09b48b3-d61a-4670-83e5-1d9e9e3cd245/Festive+decorations-garlands.jpg BLOG - Natural Festive Decorations by the Pros: How to Get the Look at Home - Make it stand out FESTIVE GARLANDS A festive garland can be used to decorate all sorts of areas in your home: draped across the mantelpiece, winding along a stair banister, surrounding a doorway or, like the one Emma has created pictured here, around an archway. To keep the scheme cohesive with the Christmas trees and foraged decorations, Emma has tucked in dried orange slices tied with velvet ribbons, combined with red and bronze baubles. The overall look is festive, yet still natural and subtle. You can now buy ready-made real and faux fir garlands. Once you have your garland, start by adding fairy lights for that festive sparkle. Some imitation garlands come with fairy lights already attached. Battery-operated lights are best for garlands, so wherever you place it, you don’t have to worry about having a socket close by. Finally, add your baubles, dried oranges and other ornaments of your choice, securing these with wire, string, or by tying the decoration with ribbon directly onto the branches. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/67f720a0-6553-43c7-8576-86e224c3bf76/festive+styling-presents.jpg BLOG - Natural Festive Decorations by the Pros: How to Get the Look at Home - Make it stand out STYLISHLY WRAPPED GIFTS Presents wrapped so stylishly, like the ones pictured here, are a key part of the festive décor. From earthy-toned printed wrapping paper to velvet and satin ribbons, Emma and her team have made the wrapped gifts look tactile and festive. Around the tree on the right, they have wrapped different sized boxes all in the same white paper with red, green and burnt orange ribbon. Each present then has a touch of greenery, such as a sprig of fir or holly. For your own gifts, you could also use mistletoe or ivy. Emma has then attached either a dried orange slice or a cinnamon stick for that extra layer of detail. To add stylish gifts to your tree, wrap gifts in advance in different size boxes for variety to give that luxurious feel. Alternatively, if you haven’t done your Christmas shopping, you can, like hotels and shops, wrap a few empty boxes as festive props. Once you’ve wrapped your boxes, go that extra mile like the pros with that little added detail on each gift that makes everything feel more special. The little touches, like the addition of a single bauble dangling from the ribbon, a small pine cone, a piece of holly or a couple of dried orange slices, will ensure your gifts look as good as the rest of your decorations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f60a3600-016c-4382-ab51-36bd431b02fd/Chewton+Glen+Hotel+at+Christmas+time.jpg BLOG - Natural Festive Decorations by the Pros: How to Get the Look at Home - MAGICAL CHRISTMAS TREES To give you the full picture, I just had to show you the magical scene of Chewton Glen at the entrance, taken by my niece, who is also a photographer and who thoroughly enjoyed her visit to the hotel. Here is Fleur looking up at the biggest tree in the hotel, which starts on the ground floor and its top, with the star, reaches the first floor. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/inspirational-home-tour-desertwild monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cf0136c7-45d6-40a2-b6c6-7e63c0d43c50/Sandra+van+Aalst-theInterior+Syle+Host.jpg BLOG - Stunning Moroccan-Inspired Desert Home Tour Packed with Styling Ideas. - Welcome to the INTERIOR STYLE HOST BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra, If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe, as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help you style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e41d3c0f-64bc-4feb-9d62-1e17dd354b88/Stylish+home+tours-DesertWild-Living+room.jpg BLOG - Stunning Moroccan-Inspired Desert Home Tour Packed with Styling Ideas. - HOME TOURS: A MOROCCAN-INSPIRED SANCTUARY IN THE DESERT Photo credit Garden Trading https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/34a43827-ee77-4772-8c1e-e5006c4179de/Stylish+home+tours-DesertWild-outdoorseating.jpg BLOG - Stunning Moroccan-Inspired Desert Home Tour Packed with Styling Ideas. - STYLISH OUTDOOR DINING Photo credit The 1 hotel Miami South Beach photographed by Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/75433469-a4dd-4f61-86de-3592490bc555/Stylish+home+tours-DesertWild-fireplace.jpg BLOG - Stunning Moroccan-Inspired Desert Home Tour Packed with Styling Ideas. - LIVING ROOM WITH INDOOR/OUTDOOR CONNECTION A Georgia O’Keeffe–inspired adobe fireplace anchors the living space, its smooth plaster curves complemented by simple styling and earthy accents. Through the picture window, desert views and a potted cactus blur the boundary between indoors and out. On the plaster bench there’s a folded artisan throw and a Desert Wild embossed sun hat, while above the fireplace are two vintage wooden spindles. Try styling with pieces that are vintage or from your travels to tell your own personal story through your interiors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5d7f636c-4b57-4a47-86a3-33aa39713bd2/Stylish+home+tours-DesertWild-Living+room-details.jpg BLOG - Stunning Moroccan-Inspired Desert Home Tour Packed with Styling Ideas. - STYLISH LIVING ROOM DETAILS Moroccan rugs add pattern in earthy tones, while pottery from local artisans and woven accents bring in texture. A record collection and player encourage guests to chill on the sofa and have that unplugged feeling, while taking in the stunning views of the mountains, trees, and fireplace out of the windows. Take note of how the artisan textiles, like the rug and throws, and artefacts, together with records and books, all thoughtfully styled, bring a personal, layered touch to the space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/79a36fd5-2ae7-4ba6-ab95-71c4f1d47eb3/Stylish+home+tours-DesertWild-kitchen%3Adining.jpg BLOG - Stunning Moroccan-Inspired Desert Home Tour Packed with Styling Ideas. - CAREFULLY CURATED KITCHEN This gorgeous kitchen really encapsulates Natalie’s signature style, with its plaster countertops, wood cabinetry made from American white oat, and a large timber dining table handcrafted by local artisans. The woven pendant and other pieces of home decor in the kitchen were sourced on the couple’s travels to carry the global aesthetic throughout the house. To echo Natalie’s kitchen styling in your own home, mix raw materials with plants, pottery and pieces you’ve found on your travels for a globally-inspired look. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/607c0dc5-6224-4d97-b484-38a3b1174f90/Stylish+home+tours-DesertWild-masterbed.jpg BLOG - Stunning Moroccan-Inspired Desert Home Tour Packed with Styling Ideas. - STUNNING BEDROOM I particularly like the choice of colours in this bedroom, with the bed linen in a light turmeric and terracotta tone, continuing the earthy vibe. But what I find rather special is the large plaster arch behind the bed, which creates a striking headboard. There are also woven storage baskets, brass wall sconces, and even Desert Wild custom-made sun hats. Styling ideas from this bedroom could include the woven baskets hanging on the wall, which are a clever and attractive way to display plants and bring greenery into a bedroom where you often don’t have much surface space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c596b613-3c22-40de-84ac-2f70db9c88ee/Stylish+home+tours-DesertWild-ensuite.jpg BLOG - Stunning Moroccan-Inspired Desert Home Tour Packed with Styling Ideas. - STYLISH ENSUITE In the master ensuite, a 100-year-old Turkish stone hammam basin sits on plaster shelves above handmade Moroccan terracotta tiles. The design is super stylish with a brass mirror, wall sconces, and taps. A large picture window opens the space to desert views, bringing nature into the room. Styling ideas to steal from the bathroom are to add hammam towels, a wicker basket, potted plant and unusual vintage-style wall light. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4622a2f4-d052-423e-95c1-3d1b1cc7be8a/Stylish+home+tours-DesertWild-bedroom.jpg BLOG - Stunning Moroccan-Inspired Desert Home Tour Packed with Styling Ideas. - CLOUD-LIKE BED The second bedroom also has a plaster feature, but this time it's a custom poured-plaster bed frame with side tables, all as one piece and, according to Natalie, designed to feel cloud-like. Keeping the look cohesive with the home’s Moroccan-inspired aesthetic, you’ll also find gorgeous woven pendants and natural oatmeal-toned linens adding texture in this bedroom. This is such a simple, yet elegant way to have the table, headboard and bed frame all combined. Natalie has kept the styling to a minimum with a magazine and vase of dried flowers so the woven pendant light takes centre stage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6ffb1d23-c7d1-4552-9a0c-de1c46e8fae2/Stylish+home+tours-DesertWild-bathroom.jpg BLOG - Stunning Moroccan-Inspired Desert Home Tour Packed with Styling Ideas. - BEAUTIFUL BATHROOM WITH A VISTA Brass fixtures and sheer curtains frame this Moroccan-inspired bathroom. It’s stunning, with its unusual deep soaking tub sitting below a plaster arch. But what really impresses me is the view out of the window, looking out at a cactus. I hope this gives you ideas for your own bathroom, such as brass tap fittings, linen curtains or a rustic piece of wood across your bath. For my bathroom, I am inspired to swap my frosted glass for clear, and plant something in a pot outside the window to extend the view of the bathroom, so I have a vista like the bathroom here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5c6205c8-683d-4163-8845-cc5dcd965839/Natalie+Saunders-Desert+Wild.JPG BLOG - Stunning Moroccan-Inspired Desert Home Tour Packed with Styling Ideas. - MEET NATALIE Designer Natalie Saunders brings a host of global influences to Desert Wild, pictured here in her beautifully designed and styled kitchen. Australian-born and passionate about travel, she studied design in Sydney before settling with her husband, Louis, in Joshua Tree. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/interior-stylists-vintage-filled-vacation-home monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/794be2a4-d97c-40eb-854b-0012f30a8841/Sandra+van+Aalst-theInterior+Syle+Host.jpg BLOG - An Interior Stylist’s Vintage-filled Vacation Home - Welcome to the BLOG, If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe (see below) as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help you style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. On this blog, I’ll be sharing insightful articles packed with advice, tips, and ideas for home styling and decoration, along with inspiring tours of beautifully styled spaces. Having styled countless homes with very different interiors, I know it’s the final touches and thoughtful curating that make a space magazine-worthy, regardless of whether it’s an architectural masterpiece or filled with high-end furniture. And, rather than focus on one particular interior look or style, I aim to open your eyes to a wide variety so you feel inspired, not limited. Ultimately, I’ll show you how a little bit of styling can be transformational and take your home to a whole new level. In this week’s blog post, I’m taking you on a tour of The Biscuit Cottage, a vacation rental which was designed and styled by Clare Southcombe-Holmes, an interior stylist and owner of award winning-interior boutique - No 64 The Biscuit House. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/60d4203d-27a7-46b9-9df8-8de3136942f7/Stylish+house+tours-Biscuitcottage-Living+room+with+lamp.jpg BLOG - An Interior Stylist’s Vintage-filled Vacation Home - STYLISH HOME TOURS THE BISCUIT COTTAGE STYLED WITH VINTAGE FINDS www.biscuitcottage.co.uk Photo credit Garden Trading https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/648f81c5-0a17-48ad-ae6c-db38135f2371/The+Biscuit+cottage+wild++pinterest+pins.jpg BLOG - An Interior Stylist’s Vintage-filled Vacation Home - THE BISCUIT COTTAGE AT CHRISTMAS The Biscuit Cottage was a more recent project which was thoughtfully designed and styled by Clare as a gorgeous vacation rental retreat. It is balanced with both comfort and style, where old meets new. When styling vignettes, Clare also adds meaningful objects to the cottage and her own home that she has accumulated over the years. These could be in the shape of canvases from local artists, driftwood she’s found on the beach, together with keepsakes, like her dad’s classic box camera, all bringing a personal touch to the interior. Named after a biscuit tin bought whilst holidaying in Italy, Clare, along with partner Glen, in February 2017 opened the doors to their interiors emporium - No 64 Biscuit House. The décor of the shop really harmonises with the style of the house and cottage, uniting the interior scheme of all three. Here is a little taste of The Biscuit Cottage at Christmas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/743cc72e-df0e-44cf-a290-31c88d686c0f/Stylish+house+tours+No+64+Biscuit+house-cottageLiving+.jpg BLOG - An Interior Stylist’s Vintage-filled Vacation Home - THE ORIGINAL BRICK FIREPLACE IN THE LIVING ROOM TAKES CENTRE STAGE The original brick fireplace, complete with its time-worn rustic charm and modern wood-burning stove, serves as the backdrop, bringing both warmth and character to the room. Clare has teamed a rich velvet sofa with a deep-buttoned ottoman that doubles as a coffee table, to bring luxury to the otherwise rustic room. Styling-wise, she has used a decorative tray to display a mix of greenery, a scented candle, and vintage glassware. The television is barely noticeable placed on a rustic unit with a plant and pots styled next to it so it doesn’t take centre stage. By blending it with home decor, Clare's thoughtful styling has turned it into a curated display and not a focal point. Instead, your eye is drawn to the fireplace and wood-burning stove as the standout feature in the room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/463650d9-fe6b-4e7d-8b42-8a04acbcb093/Stylish+house+tours-Biscuitcottage-sofa.jpg BLOG - An Interior Stylist’s Vintage-filled Vacation Home - RUSTIC MEETS REFINED IN THE LIVING ROOM As the building dates back to the 1800s, Clare wanted to keep many of the original features, including the wooden flooring. Clare had this sanded and varnished, then dressed it with a large rug to anchor the seating area. Clare chose a blue-toned grey velvet sofa in a traditional design, which she styled with a mixture of different cushions to give that layered look. A styling tip from Clare is to have cushions in different shapes and sizes, as well as printed, striped, and plain. Mixing cotton with velvet and embroidered fabrics, as well as a wool throw, the room is filled with texture for that tactile feel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d3cf911d-92f4-4852-b021-1963b9f693a3/Stylish+house+tours+No+64+Biscuit+house.+CottageLiving+room.jpg BLOG - An Interior Stylist’s Vintage-filled Vacation Home - COSY LIVING ROOM NOOK In the living room, Clare has created a rather stylish yet serene corner for guests to enjoy with a good book or listen to music. Hanging above is coastal artwork by a local artist, which reflects the cottage’s seaside location. Next to the chair, Clare has placed a shelving unit complete with books and a retro radio. Along with a vase with dried eucalyptus leaves, she has styled the shelves with a globe, hurricane lamp, vintage No. 64 sign and other interesting items. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4ec0daf9-5efc-468d-a2b8-17aebcb961f0/Stylish+house+tours-Biscuitcottage-Ottoman+and+tree+trunk+stool.jpg BLOG - An Interior Stylist’s Vintage-filled Vacation Home - RETRO PAIRED WITH RUSTIC IN THE LIVING ROOM A rustic stool, crafted from a solid piece of weathered wood, acts as a side table – one of Clare’s many special finds that adds a touch of raw nature to the space. This is juxtaposed with the plush velvet ottoman where she has displayed a faux plant in a vintage vase on a rustic metal tray, bringing in more texture and contrast to the room. If you have an ottoman instead of a coffee table, a tray is ideal so you can display a plant or vase of flowers, and also keep other items such as coasters and remote controls in it. A modern version of the butterfly chair creates another cosy corner, styled with a sheepskin and cushion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/dc06c7d0-4eaa-4e57-8af2-2096739eb8b5/Stylish+house+tours+No+64+Biscuit+house.+Cottage+Kitchen.jpg BLOG - An Interior Stylist’s Vintage-filled Vacation Home - CAREFULLY CONSIDERED KITCHEN In the small but well-designed kitchen, the soft-toned cabinetry and pale wooden worktop stand out against the deep green painted wall. Designed with guests in mind, Clare opted for open shelving to display all the essentials with style. Even the glassware and ceramics are a carefully curated mix of old and new, with an old wooden chopping board and retro-style labelled jars for tea, sugar, and snacks. On the worktop, Clare has grouped together hand soap and other items and displays them in a small vignette on a rough-cut piece of timber. She has added a vase with eucalyptus to bring natural greenery into the kitchen and complement the wall colour. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/57f26d29-06a7-497e-a51d-47c57db3fd07/+Stylish+house+tours+No+64+Biscuit+house-+cottageBedroom.jpg BLOG - An Interior Stylist’s Vintage-filled Vacation Home - NEUTRAL TONES IN THE BEDROOM This is one of my favourite bedrooms; it feels luxurious but characterful. Clare's styling is all about layering with texture and combining this with vintage finds. Although the bedroom is very spacious, the bed is undoubtedly the centrepiece. It is actually an old French bed that Clare bought from a friend. She has completely transformed it by painting it with a slightly distressed finish. A vintage chest of drawers repurposed as a bedside table, is styled with retro items and a vintage vase filled with faux flowers and greenery. Clare has dressed the bed, starting with crisp white bedding from The White Company, with soft green cushions that echo the natural tones found elsewhere in the room. At the end of the bed, an ottoman has been draped in a sumptuous sheepskin for a touch of understated luxury. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2d406b6c-dc0e-4902-b468-a2216d523d73/Stylish+house+tours-BiscuitcottageBedroomcloseup.jpg BLOG - An Interior Stylist’s Vintage-filled Vacation Home - VINTAGE MEETS RETRO IN THE BEDROOM In this close-up of the bedroom, you can see two of Clare’s vintage pieces: the chest of drawers, which acts as a side table, and the French-style bed frame. To light up the space, Clare hung two gorgeous glass pendants from the ceiling, but also placed an anglepoise lamp next to the bed to bring in that retro feel and give guests a good reading light. An original retro telephone is also displayed on the surface, bringing in another retro item, which, along with the black lamp, contrasts with the neutral-toned interior. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d8bf4b3b-e3f9-4033-a7f1-1add24c58395/Stylish+house+tours+No+64+Biscuit+house+and+cottage-Nook.jpg BLOG - An Interior Stylist’s Vintage-filled Vacation Home - STYLISH BEDROOM NOOK Between the bedroom and bathroom is a small nook where Clare has created a vignette on a vintage side table, making this little corner feel just as considered as the bedroom. As guests walk through to the bathroom, the sculptural wooden figure of a fat lady doing the splits makes them smile, while the scented diffuser fills the air with a subtle fragrance. To complete the vignette, Clare has added a framed butterfly print, adding a touch of colour and curiosity. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ba6b13e0-5bf6-431b-804e-837588efd127/Stylish+house+tours-Biscuitcottage-bathroom.jpg BLOG - An Interior Stylist’s Vintage-filled Vacation Home - STYLISH BATHROOM The white wooden shelf is a simple addition, but it dresses up what would be a plain wall and allows for home decor items to be displayed in a vignette. Similarly, the attractive wrought-iron table offers the perfect spot for a vase of flowers which, although looking convincing, are actually artificial. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b8b825a6-49d9-4805-823f-404c38a13359/Stylish+house+tours-BiscuitcottageBathroom.jpg BLOG - An Interior Stylist’s Vintage-filled Vacation Home - SPA-LIKE BATH ROBES No detail is overlooked, and in the bathroom, Clare leaves out two gorgeous linen robes on hangers for guests, styled on a vintage wooden hook. Hanging next to the robes is a heart decoration made from pebbles, for that coastal touch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b2222b62-2909-4a8c-82d1-40b62e572c79/Stylish+house+tours+No+64+Biscuit+house+and+cottage-basin.jpg BLOG - An Interior Stylist’s Vintage-filled Vacation Home - FRENCH-STYLE BASIN CONSOLE The bathroom is also filled with vintage charm. The standout features are a beautiful round mirror, which Clare found second-hand and painted in a soft green, and the La Chapelle basin which she sourced on eBay. The touch of French style combines modern functionality with a large walk-in contemporary shower. On the basin, to keep the space feeling calm and uncluttered, Clare has kept the styling minimal with just a soap holder, a fragrant hand wash, and a small vase of fresh flowers. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/dried-grasses-leaves-and-branches monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cf0136c7-45d6-40a2-b6c6-7e63c0d43c50/Sandra+van+Aalst-theInterior+Syle+Host.jpg BLOG - Dried Grasses, Leaves and Branches: How to Use Natural Elements in Home Styling - Welcome to the BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra. If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe (see below) as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help you style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. On this blog, I’ll be sharing inspiring tours of beautifully styled spaces along with insightful articles packed with advice, tips, and ideas for home styling and decoration. Having styled countless different homes, I am able to introduce you to a wide variety of interior styles and aesthetics, rather than focusing on a single look or trend. Check out today’s blog post with shows different dried grasses, leaves and branches you can use to style your home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3f69a41b-1b0c-4446-902f-fbb170cc820b/Dried+flowers-the+InteriorStyleHost-grasses-.jpg BLOG - Dried Grasses, Leaves and Branches: How to Use Natural Elements in Home Styling - STYLING WITH DRIED GRASSES, BRANCHES AND LEAVES Photo credit Garden Trading https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8f093e16-0cf0-4e74-b4ce-b3863f7dfe5b/Dried+leaves-Christmas+decorations+Lime+Wood+Hotel.jpg BLOG - Dried Grasses, Leaves and Branches: How to Use Natural Elements in Home Styling - MAGICAL DRIED BRANCHES, LEAVES AND GRASSES AT CHRISTMAS This impressive display at Lime Wood Hotel shows just how dramatic and enchanting a decoration looks using branches, grasses and leaves. It’s a way to bring nature indoors for the whole winter season. At Lime Wood, an entire archway has been formed from dried branches, seed heads and foliage, with twinkly fairy lights and baubles woven through for the festive season. You could steal this idea and recreate it on a smaller scale in your own home, but even a foraged branch over a doorway with dried leaves, such as fern, eucalyptus and sprigs of evergreen, will do the trick. Start with a statement pot or urn, like the gold one pictured here, and build your arrangement upwards, allowing the foliage to climb and spill up and along the wall. Photo credit: Jake Eastham Lime Wood Hotel https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ae3d832a-45f4-4b7f-a946-af889093f89a/Dried+leaves+and+grasses-copper+beech.JPG BLOG - Dried Grasses, Leaves and Branches: How to Use Natural Elements in Home Styling - DYEING DRIED GRASSES AND LEAVES TO SUIT YOUR COLOUR SCHEME Some leaves and grasses are dried and then coloured, while others are preserved, often using a colourant during the preservation process. Just so you know the difference, preserved leaves and grasses are different from dried ones, as they have a more lifelike, fresh appearance as preserving adds glycerine to replace the sap, rather than letting it dry out. If you want to dye dried leaves or grasses, follow the tips here. For tips on drying, read on. You will need either fabric, food, or florist's dye in the colour you have chosen. Alternatively, use a spray, which is far easier as it dries far more quickly; however, you can’t control the intensity of colour. Fill a container with the dye solution. Leave the grasses or leaves for a minute or more until you are pleased with the colour, then rinse off any excess dye under cold water. If you are using a spray, hold it a few inches away and spray lightly until you are happy with the colour. You can spray a second time if you want it to be more intense. Dry off any excess water with paper towels, then either lay flat or tie with string and hang upside down to dry. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0cd04198-83a8-4047-a9a4-5cc7e88040a9/Dried+grasses+and+leaves-Heavenly+Homes+and+Gardens%2C+Washed+Terracotta+Vase.jpg BLOG - Dried Grasses, Leaves and Branches: How to Use Natural Elements in Home Styling - STYLING WITH BUNNY TAIL GRASSES IN DIFFERENT TONES Bunny tail grass, with its small, fluffy heads, is a popular choice and can be found in many dried arrangements. In this image, the bunny tail grass has been dyed in various shades of blue to match the woven wall hanging. Displayed in a neutral-toned rustic vase from Heavenly Homes and Gardens, this kind of styling works well on a shelf, console table or another spot where you want a form of nature. Photo credit: Heavenly Homes and Gardens https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/54abeda3-d768-4ece-b8b4-f5740ede4847/Dried+leaves+-+eucalyptus+in+stylish+white+pots.jpg BLOG - Dried Grasses, Leaves and Branches: How to Use Natural Elements in Home Styling - STYLING WITH EUCALYPTUS LEAVES There are actually quite a few different types of eucalyptus, and all of them dry well. The blue-toned eucalyptus keep their silvery-green colour, while the gumnut or the willow species, which have more pointed leaves, turn into a richer brown as they dry. I always like to have some form of eucalyptus in my home, whether fresh, dried, or artificial, as the tone looks great in most of my rooms. The dried eucalyptus stems pictured here work so well with all different interior schemes and look particularly striking in this contemporary stone vase. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f6a2d823-06b9-472c-b5a8-fd48666c19bd/Dried+grasses-the+InteriorStyleHost-Rockett+St+George%2C+Tall+Striped+Black++White+Vase+With+Handle%2C+%C2%A324%2C+8596392.jpg BLOG - Dried Grasses, Leaves and Branches: How to Use Natural Elements in Home Styling - A SINGLE PAMPAS IN A STYLISH VESSEL The bold, modern shape and matte black and white finish show that it’s all about the vessel. An attractive vessel or a vase can completely change the look of pampas, making it feel on-trend as opposed to dusty and old-fashioned. Even one simple stem looks stylish in the right vessel, like the one pictured here from Rockett St George. Photo credit: Rockett St George https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/becdf03f-c056-480a-a4d8-7ff704b79bd4/Dried+grasses%2C+branches+and+leaves-+bathroom+display.jpg BLOG - Dried Grasses, Leaves and Branches: How to Use Natural Elements in Home Styling - STYLING WITH BRANCHES IN THE BATHROOM Adding organic elements, like the branches in the image, brings nature and texture to a bathroom, which can often feel a bit clinical. I photographed this bathroom to show how a simple bare branch can be stylish and sculptural and adds interest without overwhelming the space. The branches pictured here are in a gorgeous stone vessel and add structure and height to the space. It just goes to show that one simple branch on a stool is all it takes to transform a sparse bathroom into a more stylish aesthetic. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b1e597c7-5c16-485e-9d67-483337093edc/Dried+grasses-the+InteriorStyleHost-.+Cox%26CoxCalavase.jpg BLOG - Dried Grasses, Leaves and Branches: How to Use Natural Elements in Home Styling - STYLING WITH PAMPAS GRASS I have pampas grass on display in two different spots in my house - a rather unusual one in my kitchen and a bunch of tall ones in my bathroom. I’m a fan of its sculptural form, and it brings height and texture to a room. You can display pampas alone or in a group like this. Opt for odd numbers, so three or five. If you have longer stems and want to create an impact, choose a tall vase. The three pampas grasses pictured here are displayed in an attractive ribbed vase from Cox & Cox, and they have been styled on a console table in front of a neutral-toned piece of art, which pairs well with the tones of the grasses. Photo credit: Cox & Cox https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4d94bfaf-4e89-47fa-b705-ad82995c6c67/Dried+grasses+and+leaves-wild+oat+grass.jpg BLOG - Dried Grasses, Leaves and Branches: How to Use Natural Elements in Home Styling - STYLING WITH DELICATE DRIED WILD OAT GRASSES I took this photo inside one of the rooms at Wow House - a show house. I liked how they'd styled the grasses in a simple yet elegant way. The long-stemmed wild oat grass is displayed in a tall, etched glass vase, paired with a creamy portable lamp, small ceramic pot, and pale candle. Situated on a mantelpiece inside the grand entrance hall, this is a great example of how dried grasses can also look good in a more refined interior. The grasses add height without overwhelming the space, and the warm, golden tones work beautifully in a neutral aesthetic. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/292fc3ff-d86f-4d68-ba16-dac9e63bac22/Dried+pink-dyed+fern+leaves.jpg BLOG - Dried Grasses, Leaves and Branches: How to Use Natural Elements in Home Styling - STYLING WITH DYED FERN LEAVES I photographed these dried leaves as they immediately struck me as having such an unusual soft damson or mulberry tone, which looked stunning displayed in a similarly toned vase. They are simply fern or bracken leaves and have been preserved and dyed. What’s great about dyed leaves like these is that they bring all the textural nature into your home, and with colour added, can be dyed to complement your interior. They work brilliantly on a console like this, especially when paired with something modern, like the lamp pictured here. I might try dyeing some myself to go in my pink bedroom. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/59d1d5cc-4f8c-4205-b93a-db6eb527e166/Dried+leaves+and+grasses-white+arrangement.jpg BLOG - Dried Grasses, Leaves and Branches: How to Use Natural Elements in Home Styling - STYLING SMALL SIMILAR TONE Here is a neutral bunch of dried elements made up of pampas grass and bunny tail grasses with dried gypsophila. The shades of soft beige work so beautifully together because everything is tonal and nothing shouts for attention. This sculptural off-white vase complements the tones of the arrangement. This shows how mixing dried flowers with grasses works so well. The display is styled next to some magazines on a coffee table here, but it would also look great on a bedside table or in a bathroom for that spa-like feel. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ba95c4bd-ec25-4d08-be83-7963bf4e83db/Dried+grasses+and+leaves-Eucalyptus+Stems.jpg BLOG - Dried Grasses, Leaves and Branches: How to Use Natural Elements in Home Styling - DRYING LEAVES AND GRASSES The drying process takes any sap, water or moisture away so rather than wilting and loosing leaves the plant just dries out. To dry leaves or grasses, bunch the stems together loosely and tying them with string and hanging them upside down. Avoid places that are humid like bathrooms or utility rooms, as moisture can cause mould. Leave your grasses or leaves for at least two weeks to dry, depending on the type of leaf and how thick it is. Eucalyptus dries fairly quickly and keeps a lovely shape, while fluffier grasses, like bunny tail grasses, can take a longer Photo credit: Heavenly homes and gardens https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/festive-mantelpieces monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cf0136c7-45d6-40a2-b6c6-7e63c0d43c50/Sandra+van+Aalst-theInterior+Syle+Host.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE MANTELPIECES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own Yuletide mantel masterpiece - Welcome to the BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra. If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe (see below) as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help you style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/06d3493a-6303-487c-b34d-8207617b27c4/christmas+Mantle+Nkuku.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE MANTELPIECES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own Yuletide mantel masterpiece - FESTIVE MANTELPIECES A mix of unusual mantelpiece ideas and inspiration to create your own Yuletide masterpiece. Photo credit: Nkuku https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/af054442-e160-40d4-aa13-97014e050e8a/Christmas+Mantle+Pottery+Barn+.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE MANTELPIECES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own Yuletide mantel masterpiece - COUNTRY-STYLE MANEL WITH ROW OF STOCKINGS This fireplace is pure elegance, with a fir garland draped across the entire mantelpiece and an imposing wreath hanging above, bringing plenty of festive foliage into the room. But it has to be the row of plush mink faux fur stockings from Pottery Barn that takes centre stage. Overall, it's a neutral palette with layered greenery set off by the rustic stone wall, yet it still feels festive with the warm metallic vase and bronze-toned leaves. Additionally, white poinsettias and slim, tall white candles pair with the white stockings and bring an extra layer of decoration to the mantle. Photo credit: Pottery Barn UK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/78607dac-4435-4347-95a4-b607ead3741b/Christmas+Mantle+Lime+Wood+Hotel.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE MANTELPIECES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own Yuletide mantel masterpiece - THE PRO MANTELPIECE AT LIME WOOD HOTEL There’s such an effortless sophistication to this arrangement which spills naturally across the mantelpiece at Lime Wood Hotel. It’s one of my favourite places to visit during the festive season to enjoy lunch or a drink amongst the gorgeous decorations. The foliage has been foraged from the New Forest where the hotel is situated, which makes it perfect for a decorative mantelpiece that can stay in place the entire winter season. I love how the florists have embraced earthy tones with muted bronzed foliage. They have then woven in brown velvet ribbons and displayed a large mirrored bauble as the centrepiece. To get the look at home, opt for dried leaves and branches in warm tones such as copper, beech and bracken. Place a large bauble as the centrepiece and weave in thick ribbons in tonal velvets. Photo credit: Jake Eastham Lime Wood Hotel https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e484ccec-be45-4367-acbc-5f45e913599d/Christmas+mantle+Annie+Sloan+Fireplace+garland.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE MANTELPIECES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own Yuletide mantel masterpiece - COLOURFUL MANTELPIECE WITH AN ARTISTIC TWIST Christmas can be filled with vibrant colour, not just red and green. This mantelpiece has a real artistic twist with decorations to try at home. A mix of glass bottles in different heights has been decorated with Matisse-inspired illustrations in colours that work beautifully against the classic fireplace and deep green wall. The bottles were hand-painted using Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in a palette of expressive tones including Tyrian Plum, Frida Blue, Capri Pink, Arles. To get the look at home, repurpose glass bottles then start by painting them with a primer that stays on glass or other shiny surfaces like PVC. Once dried, you can decorate them in your favourite bright hues for a festive scheme then add a candle or two. The garland, with paper birds, trees, stars and other shapes, can be cut out from colourful paper or drawn on plain paper and painted in colours of your choice. Photo credit: Annie Sloan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/725ca0bd-7caa-46d1-9648-dea32cae604e/Christmas+Mantle+-+OKA.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE MANTELPIECES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own Yuletide mantel masterpiece - ECLECTIC SEASONAL MANTELPIECE This mantelpiece display is another one of my favourites. It’s not trying too hard to be overly Christmassy and combines everyday elements, which is what makes it feel so stylish. The framed botanical art and the quirky ceramic parrot, leopard, and artichoke candle holders sit alongside festive touches such as the Rioja-toned glass baubles and hanging acorns, also from Oka, which add colour and sheen. There’s a touch of greenery on the mantel with sprigs of eucalyptus, a fir wreath and a mini faux orchid. Altogether, it’s a great example of how you can mix the everyday with festive ornaments to create a mantel that feels stylish yet seasonal. Photo credit: Oka https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cd976cad-02b4-4edc-98ad-fa4d79ad8266/Christmas+mantle+-Sophie+Allport.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE MANTELPIECES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own Yuletide mantel masterpiece - TRADITIONAL MANTELPIECE WITH ILLUSTRATED STOCKINGS There’s something charming about a traditional style Christmas - from the gently flickering candles to the soft glow of the tree lights and the roaring fire - a look I think many of us resonate with. This mantelpiece has been decorated with a garland, candlelight and two beautifully illustrated stockings, which are part of the Cosy Christmas collection by Sophie Allport. Her collection of Christmas items, everything from stockings and advent calendars to gift wrap, was inspired by festive traditions and with illustrations of woodland creatures, furry friends, and wintry scenes. To recreate this look at home, focus on timeless touches with candleholders, a garland, fir and classic stockings hanging either side. Photo credit: Sophie Allport https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8193a6c0-5699-4caa-ae74-fa8cc01c6f6b/Christmas+styling-mantlepiece.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE MANTELPIECES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own Yuletide mantel masterpiece - FESTIVE MANTELPIECE WITH FIR AND TOUCHES OF NOSTALGIA This was my own rustic style mantelpiece in the house I built. I thought I’d show in this article, as it’s a timeless look I loved and works so well because of the natural French-style stone fire surround. I started with a natural faux garland which came complete with fairy lights already attached to it. I then poked in real branches of fir to give it that draped-over-the-edge effect. For a natural woodland feel, I used a tall glass candlestick for height, and as extra touches, I hung up oversized frosted pinecones. If you want to hang pinecones or baubles from your mantelpiece, unless it is painted, you should be able to use tape hidden under your foliage or garland. Frog masking tape is best and can actually be used on painted surfaces. Check out my blog post on natural, rustic styling to see the rest of my house decorated for the festive season. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/festive-styling-and-decoration-ideas. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2f1af1a2-4ea4-424c-9736-147d947e2eae/Christmas+mantle-+letters+-the-wisteria-tree.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE MANTELPIECES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own Yuletide mantel masterpiece - FUN, MODERN MANTELPIECE WITH FESTIVE LETTERING There’s something cheerful and bright about this pared-back mantelpiece with HO HO HO lettering, which is a fun and modern way to decorate the mantelpiece this festive season. This charming decoration from The Wisteria Tree comes in one piece on a wooden plinth with letters in natural wood, silver and brown. The mantelpiece looks seasonal but not overly Christmassy, with eucalyptus poked in between the letters. I like the paper striped and dotty stars hanging from a grey beaded garland which also give the whole fireplace a more contemporary feel.To get the look at home, keep your palette simple with a set of lights and one form of greenery, together with your festive letters. You can also use separate lettering such as an ‘M’ and a ‘C’ for Merry Christmas. Photo credit: The Wisteria Tree https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/697de587-afba-43cc-8f4a-52770e8796d6/Christmas+mantle-Oak+Furnitureland+Payton+mirror.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE MANTELPIECES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own Yuletide mantel masterpiece - RED AND GREEN THEMED MANTELPIECE Here is a simple, timeless mantelpiece, with classic pairing of red and green. A natural fir garland anchors the scheme, with bold red adding rich, festive touches. The chunky knitted stockings bring in texture and Christmas cheer with their little wrapped gifts, while the oversized acorn decorations add a rustic charm. Above the fireplace is a black metal mirror from Oak Furnitureland, which adds a contemporary edge, while the final touch is a single candle adding height and a warm glow. Photo credit: Oak Furnitureland https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b546ba4a-4a2a-48cb-8ecb-af0a9e2eac36/Christmas+mantle+Pooky.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE MANTELPIECES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own Yuletide mantel masterpiece - ELEGANT WHITE, BRONZE AND GOLD-TONED MANTELPIECE This classic carved fire surround is the perfect refined backdrop for an elegant decoration.The white scheme is gently lifted with gold and bronze accents, creating a look that feels festive without being too bold and bright. The display is created with delicate fairy lights that look like a string of pearls, combined with dried leaves for an organic texture, and a handful of baubles for just the right amount of sheen. Instead of a candle, an antique brass lamp from Pooky fits in perfectly and echoes the subtle golden tones of the baubles. Photo credit: Pooky https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d6f181df-f11d-484e-8150-e666be3f15cf/Christmas+Mantle+-+Dunelm.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE MANTELPIECES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own Yuletide mantel masterpiece - DRAMATIC BLACK MANTELPIECE For those who have a black fire surround, this festive mantelpiece has several different looks in one to inspire you, from bold styling with striped folding paper decorations to a more rustic vibe with foliage, while also looking glamorous with a bunch of antique brass candlesticks. No matter what decorations you place on a black mantelpiece, it will give a sense of drama and modern luxe and is a great backdrop for Christmas styling. The black and white folding paper stars and balls and the gold metal candle holder pictured here are both from Dunelm. To recreate this mantelpiece at home, you could opt for just one of the looks or combine all three. Photo credit: Dunelm https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cd04a084-61c5-43e2-9f53-db8b60b1c186/Christmas+mantle+Oliver+Bonas.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE MANTELPIECES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own Yuletide mantel masterpiece - SIMPLE SOFT-TONED MANTELPIECE This mantelpiece is perfect for homes that love a pop of colour that is subtle and not too bold. The classic detailing of the fireplace is an ideal backdrop for the candy cane velvet stocking from Oliver Bonas, threaded with multicoloured velvet ribbons and finished with a bold green bow. The mantelpiece gives off a party vibe with colourful retro-style glassware. A delicate garland in pastel tones and twisted colourful candles add glow and height, altogether bringing personality and festive cheer to the mantel. Photo credit: Oliver Bonas https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a2e60d2d-3ae3-44fa-926e-b174a7b2d1db/Christmas++Mantle+-+COX%26COX+.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE MANTELPIECES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own Yuletide mantel masterpiece - CLASSIC CANDLELIT MANTLEPIECE There’s nothing quite like a fireplace that looks like it comes out of a traditional Christmas scene. It feels instantly nostalgic, warm, and comforting. If you have a traditional mantelpiece like this one, flickering candles and natural foliage with gold accents work beautifully. Along with a garland made of berries, the mantle has been decorated with a couple of wrapped gifts and ribbons tied around the candlesticks. There’s also a festive wreath leant against the wall teamed with circular paper decorations. This look, from Cox & Cox, is about enduring style and thoughtful details, capturing the kind of festive setting where memories are made. To recreate it at home, lean into tradition with plenty of candle holders, velvet ribbon, small wrapped gifts, and paper decorations. Photo credit: Cox & Cox https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/27e1c666-5a06-4656-a69b-f445870fffd8/Christmas+Mantle+-+nordic-christmas-.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE MANTELPIECES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own Yuletide mantel masterpiece - NORDIC STYLE MANTLEPIECE As many of us have a touch of Scandi style in our homes, this Nordic style wood mantel has that perfect, considered look to suit many modern interiors. I love the contrast of greenery with touches of frosty white as it creates that wonderful woodland look. But it’s the three white and grey knitted stockings, from Dibor’s Nordic-inspired Christmas collection, finished with cute faux pom-poms and an embroidered trim, that are the main attraction. Notice the three decorations - the snowflake, tree and fairy are all on stands with hooks - a genius idea so you don’t need to use a nail or tape to hang up your stockings. To get the look at home, mix in different textures like wool and wood, and choose Nordic style stockings to be your standout feature. Photo credit: Dibor https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/festive-tablescapes monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cf0136c7-45d6-40a2-b6c6-7e63c0d43c50/Sandra+van+Aalst-theInterior+Syle+Host.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE TABLESCAPES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own - Welcome to the BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra. If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe (see below) as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help you style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7f66e1cb-77be-4b5a-8a1a-8975b99e48f3/Christmas+tablescape-+stars+decorations+Hero.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE TABLESCAPES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own - FESTIVE TABLESCAPES Photo credit: Garden Trading https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/680fd556-bc56-449d-902a-d3f58a83a30f/Christmas+tablescape-Foresctcore+Christmas+tablescape.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE TABLESCAPES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own - A TABLESCAPE WITH POINSETTIAS Poinsettias have long been a classic flower for the festive season. I like to have them in all different sizes - large ones in my concrete planter, medium-sized in various pots dotted around the house, and the smallest to decorate surfaces. The experts at Stars for Europe UK share a variety of design ideas using this beautiful winter bloomer. I love the way they are tucked into black cone-style vases suspended from the candelabra, and also on the place settings. They’ve completely transformed this table and made it feel instantly festive. Photo credit: Stars for Europe https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/20f89d2c-1e76-4c87-b801-18358fa5404f/Christmas+tablescape+ideas-+Swoon+Dining+Table.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE TABLESCAPES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own - STYLISH TABLE ARRANGEMENT WITH RIBBONS This richly styled tablescape is colourful, yet still feels elegant and festive. For this look, it’s all about the ribbons and bows. The ribbon garland hanging above the table by Swoon Editions sets the tone, echoing the deep purple and damson ribbons tied in bows around the five candlesticks, creating a sociable party atmosphere that will work right through the season. If you have a bunch of candlesticks, adding a bow is a simple yet effective styling trick. Choose ribbons in velvet, silk or sheer materials for that luxurious touch. Photo credit: Swoon Editions https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/971f76ea-ae5f-4d61-a831-ebb8781905e8/Christmas+tablecape-+Milagro+crackersRockettst+George.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE TABLESCAPES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own - BLACK, RED AND GOLD FESTIVE TABLE This dramatic tablescape is ideal for those who prefer a more unconventional touch to festive dining. The black cloth, draped across the table almost like an oversized runner, makes a statement and is lifted by accents of the antique gold star and bows, and the deep red in the candles and crackers. Every detail is carefully chosen for impact, and each piece is part of a curated collection from Rockett St George which, along with their black and off-white dinner set, adds to the elegance of the table. If you want to emulate a black, red and gold tablescape, bring in some seasonal greenery, like on the table pictured here, such as fir or eucalyptus, to soften the look. Photo credit: Rockett St George https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/39339ed3-c2f2-4999-a3cf-8ddeca4c3a36/Christmas+tablescape-Red+Ticking+Table+Linen-thesecretlinenstore.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE TABLESCAPES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own - DECORATING WITH RED AND WHITE This dining room and table are an example of how to use red and white with a modern twist. The red is in different scales, with the subtle red ticking stripe tablecloth by The Secret Linen Store, paired with other red accents: the star, candles and ribbons on the table. Then there’s the gorgeous solid red star and huge statement red-and-white striped bow, which adds interest without feeling too 'matchy'. Touches of green in the foliage and paper tree have been woven in to break up the red and give the room a natural festive feel. Photo credit: The Secret Linen Store https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/675c0060-cee6-442a-8035-7be79e1435e4/Christmas+tablescapes-+white+and+silver+dining+table.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE TABLESCAPES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own - SILVER TABLESCAPE If you read last week's post on natural Christmas styling, www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/festive-styling-and-decoration-ideas, you will have already come across my tablescape that I styled and decorated a few years back for both the festive season and a magazine shoot. Just to recap, I started with a base by scattering fir sprigs all along the centre, followed by a string of fairy lights in cute little glass bottles. I placed real pine cones that I had sprayed white on the fir, along with a few concrete apples I normally have on display in the kitchen. It’s worth looking around your house for items like these apples that might just work well within your festive arrangement. The flicker of candlelight came in all shapes and forms, with candle holders and lanterns I had collected over the years. My glass Christmas tree has been one of my staple styling pieces for several years. I filled it with a large candle and dried cranberries, as well as pine cones, but this year I placed a mixture of silver baubles in different finishes to complement the silver-toned theme. Photo credit: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6a7a0854-448e-440a-bf1d-8df68b004353/Christmas+tablescape-Trestle+Dining+Table.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE TABLESCAPES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own - PARED-BACK TABLE SETTING This festive table, in a neutral palette, shows us that simplicity and nature can be just as impactful as colour and sparkle. The tablescape has been created starting with a small black and white striped linen runner. Pine cones and foliage have been scattered across the table for a relaxed, natural look, teamed with classic white tableware. What I find striking about this tablescape is the three black candle holders in varying sizes, which give height and style to the table, creating a lovely sense of sophistication and teaming with the black in the runner for a cohesive look. I am inspired to invest in some for my own tablescape this winter. Finally, the bare wooden tones of the trestle-style dining table and matching bench by The Cotswold Company give the whole scheme a natural approach to festive dining. Photo credit: The Cotswold Company https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/fe442fde-948c-46e7-9169-80324df3be76/Christmas+tablescape-+Gold+Mistletoe+Christmas+Decorations.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE TABLESCAPES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own - WINTER WHITE TABLE ARRANGEMENT Set against a backdrop of a timber cabin with twinkling lights, this festive table setting strikes a balance between rustic charm and elegance. The soft white linen creates a base for the warm gold accents, so the look feels coordinated without being too formal. The mistletoe design napkins from Talking Tables add a delicate botanical touch that ties in beautifully with the fairy lights and gold elements, while pomegranates and foliage add those all-important natural touches. Photo credit: Talking Tables https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f9c4d7f1-4ded-4fe0-880b-1a4b9726c812/Christmas+tablescape-rusticCOX+%26+COX+.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE TABLESCAPES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own - NATURAL-TONED PLACE SETTING This is a place setting without fuss that would work as well on an autumn/winter table as it would for Thanksgiving or Christmas. The textured linens in earthy ochre and forest green, the pine cone and berry decorations, and the patterned tableware, all work together to create a look that feels carefully curated with the added touches of napkin rings and tiny sprigs of rosemary. It’s a perfect example of how you can create an inviting table that would work for the season and longer. Photo credit: Cox & Cox https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/78620cfb-cb19-4227-9757-0187cd8daae1/Christmas+Tablescape-Gisela+Graham+London+.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE TABLESCAPES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own - TRADITIONAL CHINA TABLESCAPE I love these illustrations of a nostalgic Santa and Christmas tree that have a wonderful traditional feel. These are from a collection of bone china from Gisela Graham and they’ve got that classic festive feel but still work beautifully in a more modern setting. My own decorations are a more natural, rustic style, but over the years I’ve collected several pieces of china with Christmas illustrations and used them for serving everything from cakes to pigs-in-blankets. In the image here, a Christmas runner with the same illustrations is layered over a forest green tablecloth and teamed with gold cutlery tied with velvet ribbons. There’s something magical about nostalgia at this time of year - whether it's through decorations that your children have made or festive tableware you’ve collected over the years, bring them out this Christmas. Photo credit: Gisela Graham London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9dc9fa53-14e4-45c4-9dc1-324381717851/Christmas+tablescape-White+Napkin+-+Fine+cotton+company.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE TABLESCAPES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own - WHITE AND SILVER PLACE SETTING White is a classic for Christmas and works especially well as a backdrop for greenery, silver and gold. Pictured here, eucalyptus has been simply strewn across the table, while gold touches add sheen. The place setting is laid with white linen napkins and a delicate antique-style glass bauble to bring a sophisticated touch and festive sparkle to the table. To be creative with your own place settings, you can use anything from festive decorations, miniature trees, small Christmas figurines, a bow, crackers, a small wrapped gift, chocolates or dried fruit, laid on top of the napkin. But to really impress your guests, you could have napkins monogrammed with an initial, like these white cotton napkins pictured here, by The Fine Cotton Company. Photo credit: The Fine Cotton Company https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ada4cb21-c5ea-47b8-99b1-d93d970d7503/Christmas+Tablescape-Festive+lights.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE TABLESCAPES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own - WINTRY SCENE TABLESCAPE My number one item when creating a festive tablescape is some form of twinkle from candles and fairy lights. This wintry scene has been created by layered candlelight and fairy lights combined with different forms of miniature tree decorations, which create an enchanting scene for festive dining. I also like the lilac-toned napkins tied in a knot and placed on each table setting, with small sprigs of similar-toned flowers in mini glass vases, adding charm. The table has been beautifully lit using LED candles and fairy lights from FestiveLights.co.uk, which create a magical atmosphere without the risk of real flames. Photo credit: @Homesweetbabe ©FestiveLights Ltd. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6348a17c-c9ca-4891-948d-15cbee6d72d6/Christmas+tablescape-Annie+Sloan+painted+baubles.jpg BLOG - FESTIVE TABLESCAPES - a mix of unusual ideas and inspiration to create your own - STRIKING HAND-PAINTED BAUBLE HANGING ARRANGEMENT This striking tablescape is brought to life by the creative use of colour and texture from the branch suspended above the table, with hand-painted baubles simply hung from it. To create this yourself, you need a simple bare branch, a pack of plain silver or white baubles, silver thread and paint. The baubles pictured here have been painted in Emperor's Silk and Paris Grey, two of Annie Sloan’s signature chalk paint shades, are a gorgeous combination. The table setting is also striking, and has been laid with a grey crumpled linen cloth and decorated with an opulent glass chandelier, and mixed, elegant glassware filled with Christmas goodies such as clementines and nuts. The simple black homemade crackers in black and silver finish off this glamorous Christmas tablescape perfectly. Photo credit: Annie Sloan Paint https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/festive-styling-and-decoration-ideas monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cf0136c7-45d6-40a2-b6c6-7e63c0d43c50/Sandra+van+Aalst-theInterior+Syle+Host.jpg BLOG - NATURAL, RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECORATING - my festive home decorations - Welcome to the BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra. If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe (see below) as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help you style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6ff0b0f4-3b0a-443f-adda-8ea719d3a917/Christmas+styling-interiorstylehost-tree.jpg BLOG - NATURAL, RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECORATING - my festive home decorations - FESTIVE STYLING THROUGHOUT THE HOUSE All photography: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/39b3c962-399f-4c2b-b9af-8902090a9388/Christmas+styling-copper+table+decorations-theinteriorstylehost.jpg BLOG - NATURAL, RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECORATING - my festive home decorations - STYLISH TABLE DECORATION This festive vignette was one of my favourites, pictured here on my dining table. I used a blackened bronze pedestal dish, which I filled with flowers the rest of the year. I started with sprigs of greenery from two different varieties of pine trees. Once the fir was in place, I added pine cones foraged from the woods nearby. Next, I placed two real candles at the back. In the past, I have also used fake candles, which were less of a worry that the greenery could set alight. The real statement pieces were two oversized copper baubles I bought the previous year from a local interiors shop. I then tucked in an acorn-shaped tree decoration, which I placed amongst the pine cones and threaded twinkly, battery-operated lights through to give it that extra sparkle. I grouped the arrangement together with the large rustic star and cutlery holder, both in similar toned black bronze. Finally, one simple present wrapped in bronze paper and string tied the whole scheme together. To create your own arrangement, you could use a round tray, dish or even a glass cake stand to give it height like the pedestal here. As an alternative, you could add other types of greenery, like ivy and eucalyptus, as well as different coloured baubles and a paper star. Just think of things that feel wintery, festive and textural. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/02f64a43-df9d-4bf2-a28b-5d7c60c02bb6/Christmas+styling-xmasbed.jpg BLOG - NATURAL, RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECORATING - my festive home decorations - INVITING HOLIDAY BED Family and friends would often stay in my guest bedroom at some stage over the holiday period, and I loved to surprise them with a few stylish festive touches. I started by adding a faux garland around the canopy frame. With mini pine cones tucked in, it looked like real fir, yet there was no worry about needles dropping. I hung a grey felt stocking with faux fur trim on the cupboard door and placed a winter-scented candle in the little wall niche to bring a subtle festive scent to the room. When it came to styling the bed, it’s all about texture and layering to create that cosy look, so I dressed the bed with a sheepskin throw, fur cushion and a striped pillow in warm flannel to add contrast to the dark linen. I popped a little pot of seasonal hellebores on the bedside table, which I planted in the garden at the end of the holidays. Hellebores are one of my favourite winter flowers, and it’s these small touches that make guests feel pleased to be staying over the festive period. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a37ee025-1dce-4d08-8b10-f6a6b5123ce1/Christmas+styling-the+interiorstylehost-whitevesselsandvases.jpg BLOG - NATURAL, RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECORATING - my festive home decorations - WHITE CHRISTMAS DECOR I call this my all-white display. It’s more of a collection than a vignette and, with all the different vessels and the lamp in white, it really creates impact. This all-white Christmas display was styled on an antique wooden cabinet, and I loved the contrast between the pure white and the rich, dark carved wood. I wanted it to feel wintry rather than festive so I could keep the display up for longer than a few weeks and, therefore, I kept everything in white and natural shades. I painted the white branches and have them out all year round in the large white urn. For this display, I also included a couple of white ceramic pots, one filled with pine cones sprayed lightly silver for a frosted look, and the other with white hyacinth bulbs nestled with moss. To keep it feeling fresh, natural and festive, I added sprigs of fir in a cylinder-shaped vase and also laid another sprig casually on the surface. The final additions were candlelight for a Christmas moment in both the lantern and the reindeer head. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4f4653f8-6f64-4519-9712-816208a5d32e/Christmas+styling-interiorstylehost-tree+copy.jpg BLOG - NATURAL, RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECORATING - my festive home decorations - TREE DECORATION DETAILS No matter how natural or rustic your tree scheme is, or what colour baubles you choose, I believe it’s the fairy lights that really give a tree its festive grounding. Once I had wrapped mine around, weaving in and out of the branches, I added a mix of natural paper and wood ornaments to create that Scandi feel, along with silver and hand-crocheted white baubles, sticking loosely to a white, silver and natural-toned palette. Christmas is a nostalgic time, and I like to display decorations that have been gifts or made by the kids. A couple of my favourite glass pieces, given to me by a friend, looked luxurious and really caught the light. I also treasure crocheted baubles and heart decorations handmade by another friend, while the wooden decorations were crafted by my boys in their DT lessons at school. We always put up a second, smaller artificial tree too, which is crammed full of handmade decorations and Christmas toys the boys have made or chosen over the years. It’s a tradition we all love. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a52cc12c-9866-4f41-9347-f6a27204aa3e/Christmas+styling-Reindeer+cushion.jpg BLOG - NATURAL, RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECORATING - my festive home decorations - COSY CORNERS During winter and the festive season, I like to create cosy corners in the living room. Each year I bring out my reindeer cushion, which is a styling staple. It’s become a bit of a tradition now and instantly adds a wintry feel to wherever I decide to place it. I have teamed it here with tactile velvet and embroidered cushions, together with a sheepskin throw to give the sofa that extra inviting feel. On my black metal side table, I popped a festive scented candle inside a glass lantern for that warm glow and to bring a subtle festive scent into the room. I like to have some form of foliage or flowers on every surface, so I added my go-to Christmas flowers in a handmade ceramic vase. To complete the look, I placed a few sprigs of eucalyptus mixed with branches, which stand out against the dark wall. I think the overall effect is a welcoming festive corner to relax, read a book or have a drink by the fire. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7b9dd2f6-27ea-4857-988b-a7caeeb1985c/Christmas+styling-the+interior+style+host-consoletable.jpg BLOG - NATURAL, RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECORATING - my festive home decorations - THE FESTIVE CONSOLE This was my festive console table in the hallway, where I kept the palette neutral and serene with whites, greys, browns and natural elements. I displayed seasonal plants in concrete pots for a rustic touch, planted with white hyacinths, cyclamen and a succulent. I added a couple of paper Christmas decorations in a neutral brown left over from the tree and paired them with two sculptural silver trees to bring in a bit of height, contrast, and shimmer to the vignette. In a hanging frame, I swapped a photo of the kids for an old Christmas card I’d kept with a message which reads - Joy, Love, Peace, Belief, Christmas. It’s worth keeping special cards, especially ones like this with messages or fun illustrations that could work in a frame. It’s another homemade touch and shows you’ve put thought into your festive styling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/95ca3f0d-a83e-482b-b953-45feb0819eff/Christmas+styling-+the+interiorstylehost-christmasconsoleglassjar.jpg BLOG - NATURAL, RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECORATING - my festive home decorations - SUBTLE FESTIVE TOUCHES This is the other side of the console and it continues in the same natural, silver-toned theme with the addition of a bunch of stylish silver baubles hanging from leather string. On this side is the statement piece in the shape of a large glass jar filled with tiny pine cones. It’s such a simple but effective way to bring a natural woodland feel to the table. If you have a glass vase or jar, you could also use larger pine cones. The concrete pots carry on the rustic look with seasonal plants, including the white cyclamen and heather. I am fond of the smaller pot with the white reindeer as it’s such a subtle festive touch. My vintage wooden shoe stretcher may not be festive, but it works well here paired with the brown pine cones. It’s a styling staple and I move it from room to room depending on the display. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/82de61e0-e728-4bf4-9173-214614f0da3e/Christmas+styling-interiorstylehost-tablescape.jpg BLOG - NATURAL, RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECORATING - my festive home decorations - CHRISTMAS TABLESCAPE For my Christmas tablescape, I also opted for a silver, white, and natural theme, which was simple, yet magical when the candles are all lit. As my dining table was crafted from rough-hewn oak, I left the table without a cloth, which gave a rustic grounding to the setting. For the base, I scattered sprigs of pine all along the centre, followed by a string of fairy lights. Then, for the focal point, I used my large glass Christmas tree jar, which comes out every year, filled with silver baubles. You could also use a glass vase or jar and fill it with baubles in a single tone or multi-coloured, depending on your Christmas vibe. Next came a rather eclectic mix of candles, with almost anything I could find in silver, be it candles, candle holders or small lanterns with tea lights. The silver added a hint of glamour, and tiny lights made the whole display twinkle, especially as the sun went down. I carried the theme through to the place settings, where I added small sprigs of pine and a silver pine cone on each beige linen napkin as a little festive detail. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f936d8ea-9460-4cf7-8dbf-bb608dab27ac/Christmas+Styling-interiorstylehost-kitchen.jpg BLOG - NATURAL, RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECORATING - my festive home decorations - THE CHRISTMAS KITCHEN I took this photograph in the kitchen after the kids had been busy making gingerbread trees, which made the whole space feel really festive and lived-in. I kept the colours classic in the kitchen, with mainly red and green, which worked well against the soft blue and grey backdrop of the cabinetry and stone countertop. In a large vintage vase by the window, I displayed a couple of fresh white amaryllis stems combined with eucalyptus from the garden. I dressed the white shelves for Christmas with a vase and two glass jars partially filled with fresh cranberries. You will find them in most supermarkets in December. In the open vase, I added a candle in the middle of the cranberries, continuing these on the island. I used a red wooden vintage tray to display my smaller glass with an imitation candle, and a second vase with cranberries and a candle to tie the look together. Dotted amongst the gingerbread are little handmade Christmas characters, which we dot around the home and are treasured decorations that make their appearance each year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/572e8e2c-26d0-4cb1-b3e4-59e2deb54db0/Christmas+styling-theinteriorstylehost-arrangement.jpg BLOG - NATURAL, RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECORATING - my festive home decorations - FESTIVE FOLLIAGE This oversized concrete plinth and planter, filled with foliage, made a real festive statement piece. In previous years, I filled it with large red poinsettias, but this time I wanted a more natural and textural arrangement in keeping with the rest of the scheme. Aside from the amaryllis and pussy willow, the foliage came from the garden and woods where I walk the dogs. I started the arrangement with trailing ivy, then added branches of the two different types of fir branches, which looked gorgeous cascading over the sides of the planter. The ivy gives that lovely trailing effect, while with pussy willow and twigs, I created height and structure. Before placing the flowers, I wove in a set of battery-operated fairy lights to add seasonal sparkle. The overall effect is natural, yet elegant, and it shows how you don’t need anything extravagant to make a festive arrangement. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8193a6c0-5699-4caa-ae74-fa8cc01c6f6b/Christmas+styling-mantlepiece.jpg BLOG - NATURAL, RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECORATING - my festive home decorations - RUSTIC CHRISTMAS MANTLE The stone fire surround was actually an original Dutch fireplace we sourced in The Netherlands for our new build, so I wanted to keep the decorations on the mantel natural and timeless. I started with pine cones, then used different types of fir branches, including Scots pine and blue spruce, layering them across the top for that full, draped look. I added fairy lights to give it a soft twinkle, then placed one of my tall glass candle holders with a slim taper for a touch of elegance. I had bought the two oversized hanging pine cones a few years back and was glad that they really were that extra-special addition to the fireplace. Hanging across the mirror is a red garland, handmade by my mother-in-law, which tells the story of the twelve days of Christmas in little stitched panels. I always like to mix in personal touches wherever I can. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d9193447-58db-47ec-99c3-59306c40cad3/Christmas+styling-partydress.jpg BLOG - NATURAL, RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECORATING - my festive home decorations - PARTY TIME Rather than place decorations in my bedroom, I set the scene by adding a little sparkle in a rather different way. I took out my favourite party dress which, embellished with beads and gems, was a decorative piece in its own right. I hung it on a padded hanger and added a string of fairy lights and silver tinsel to make it feel really celebratory and put me in the mood for the festive season. Together with the dress, I would also place a wintry scented candle in my bedroom. There are now so many festive candles available, usually with woody notes such as pine, cedarwood, sandalwood, or spicy notes cinnamon, clove, nutmeg which give a festive scent without being too overpowering. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6a3558d5-62af-47b0-9ecf-9b97f549cc0d/Christmas+styling-winterterrace.jpg BLOG - NATURAL, RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECORATING - my festive home decorations - FESTIVE WINTER TERRACE Even if the weather didn’t allow us to spend as much time as we’d like on the terrace, as it was visible from the house, I was keen to extend my festive decorating to the terrace, making the outdoors feel just as decorative as the house. I started by placing an outdoor imitation candle inside the large metal lantern for that soft flicker as the light fades. I used a handy model with a timer so it would always light up the terrace at dusk. In addition, I placed a small potted Christmas tree, potted hellebores and a simple fir wreath on wooden crates, which we had put together on the terrace as low coffee tables. Finally, with fairy lights on a fir tree and in a large planter, the seating area became a glowing setting. If we sat outside for mulled wine or hot chocolate, I layered up the wooden seating with throws, a reindeer hide, and sheepskins to keep things cosy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ac80f248-0afb-4335-814b-bb6f46fe5a5c/Christmas+styling-interiorstylehost-bootroom+decorations.jpg BLOG - NATURAL, RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECORATING - my festive home decorations - FESTIVE BOOTROOM Even the most practical spaces can still feel magical at Christmas. As we mostly used the back entrance, the boot room needed a bit of a festive makeover! I made a simple Christmas wreath and perched it on top of the coat rack, which was actually an old piece of driftwood we found on the beach and attached to the wall. I made a few festive glass lanterns out of used glass yoghurt pots, and filled them with cranberries and imitation tea lights with ribbon tied around the pots. I made the handles out of garden wire, then found some festive red and white string at my local garden centre. To complete the festive boot room, I placed a little wooden tree in the window and on the bench I displayed two wrapped boxes to look like presents. I used simple brown packaging paper as well as brown paper with white stars for that natural look and tied them together with a plain brown ribbon and red and white striped string to tie in with the cranberries. Finally, I filled a chrome and wood lantern with cranberries and an imitation candle to add a warm glow. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/portable-lamps monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cf0136c7-45d6-40a2-b6c6-7e63c0d43c50/Sandra+van+Aalst-theInterior+Syle+Host.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - Welcome to the BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra. If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe, as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help you style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. On this blog, I’ll be sharing insightful articles packed with advice, tips, and ideas for home styling and decoration, along with inspiring tours of beautifully styled spaces. Having styled countless homes with very different interiors, I know it’s the final touches and thoughtful curating that make a space magazine-worthy, regardless of whether it’s an architectural masterpiece or filled with high-end furniture. And, rather than focus on one particular interior look or style, I aim to open your eyes to a wide variety so you feel inspired, not limited. In this post, I am showing you one of my favourite styling items - portable lamps which can illuminate any surface. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a777d602-f87c-4239-9931-a644ad9e288f/The+Interior+Style+Host-Portable+lamps-pookyjpg.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - PORTABLE LAMPS Styling your home with these amazing new home decor items Photo: Pooky https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a99183e1-3686-4133-a8fb-0c554766b739/Portable+lamps-theinteriorstylehost+copy.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - MY BATTERY POWERED PORTABLE LAMP Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/25c78304-1d2d-48a0-ba82-bc90ce8508cb/Portable+lamps-Pooky+lamp+with+Atlas+shade.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL WALL AND TABLE RECHARGEABLE LAMPS Photo: Pooky https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/407ef46f-3c6b-412e-bedc-df395978542e/Portable+lamps-the+interior+stylehost-lampsandlights.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - STYLISH PORTABLE WITH MARBLE AND LINEN Photo: Sandra van Aalst A circular rug can work well in many spaces, as it adds interest and, in particular, breaks up a square or rectangular room. Vintage-style rugs, like the one pictured here in a hallway in my house, have become increasingly popular, bringing an authentic touch to many different types of interior schemes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8ec14132-5f2f-41f4-b0d3-8b0127384064/Portable+lamps-Rechargeable+Jewelled+Lamp.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - FUNKY JEWELLED PORTABLE LAMP Photo: Rockett St George https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/24491cb8-3bb1-498f-8bf6-7fb42dc85239/The+Interior+Style+Host-Portable+lamps-Nextfloorlamp.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - SLEEK PORTABLE FLOOR LAMP Photo: Next https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/032d9e4f-60bb-4b09-aa72-4f6f4d7ea2da/The+Interior+Style+Host-Portable+lamps-Madelamp.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - CONTEMPORARY PEBBLE SHAPED PORTABLE LAMP Photo: Made https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a9f83fbf-fd3f-4bb6-9961-fa83a88f487d/The+Interior+Style+Host-portable+lamps-WEBB++GRAY+.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - VINTAGE STYLE PORTABLE LAMP Photo: Webb & Gray https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0ea61341-0456-4e72-96ec-1e4d7b7de154/Rechargeable+lamp+ideas+-+Enrico+Table+Lamp+Satin+Black+and+Glass+With+Shade+LED+dar+lighting+group.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - SOPHISTICATED GLASS PORTABLE LAMP Photo: Dar Lighting The Enrico Table Lamp - a classic piece that will elevate any space. The sleek satin black finish and ribbed glass base create a stylish and timeless look that makes it a perfect addition to various decor schemes. The addition of a white linen shade provides a soft and subtle contrast, which complements the overall design beautifully. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/15893ea1-8374-4a33-95d3-e161b5188fdc/The+Interior+Style+Host-Portable+lamps-Abode+Living+Lamp+copy.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - ARCH-SHAPED PORTABLE LAMP Photo: Abode Living IThis cute little Vuelta Portable Lamp reflects the distinctive style of the Vuelta Series with its sculptural arc design. With portability in mind, this compact version has been reimagined in durable plastic, blending functionality and design. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3a4afcea-510a-47ee-9108-e27409f068c3/The+Interior+Style+Host-Portable+lamps-Umbra%2C+Cono+Portable+Smart+Lamp+.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - PLAYFUL PORTABLE LAMP Photo: Umbra CONO's playful design allows you to direct light by positioning it upright, on its side, or even upside down - for just a hint of illumination. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/40e5ff6d-baff-4161-ae0c-aeb486fde4a4/The+Interior+Style+Host-Portable+lamps-Joanna+Wood+Cordless+Lamps.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - CREATING ATMOSPHERE WITH GROUPED PORTABLE LAMPS Photo: Joanna Wood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1a8ef92d-aae5-4a74-8ae2-c3dcf69dfd62/The+Interior+Style+Host-Portable+lamps-Pooky+-+Lillee+rechargeable+standing+lamp.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - CLASSIC PORTABLE FLOOR LAMP Photo: Pooky https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a3dd6f2c-8f27-41d6-bfdb-c0b890168e3b/Portable+lamps+-+battering+operated+by+Next.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - BATTERY-OPERATED PORTABLE LAMP Photo: Next https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e5e6e9aa-b3d7-4a3b-abf5-fd8c11e6a88f/The+Interior+Style+Host-Portable+lamps-Tom+Raffield-Skipper+Light.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - DESIGNE-LED OUTDOOR PORTABLE LAMP Photo: Tom Raffield https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9c2da42f-4dee-46c1-abf1-22d120d007c6/The+Interior+Style+Host-Portable+lamps-outdoortable+lamp-+Sophie+Allport.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - ELEGANT OUTDOOR PORTABLE LAMP Photo: Sophie Allport Whether indoors or out. With its rechargeable feature, you can enjoy cosy lighting anywhere, making it perfect for alfresco dining, bedside tables, or reading corners. The adjustable brightness settings let you customise the glow to suit your mood, from a soft, warm light to a brighter white light. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7c3f9ff5-159b-41d3-a6b0-af8890380266/The+Interior+Style+Host-Portable+lamps-Seattle+Solar+USB+Table+Light+-Solar+Centre.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - STYLISH SOLAR PORTABLE LAMP Photo: Solar Centre Introducing the Seattle Solar USB Table Light: where nature-inspired design meets modern convenience. Illuminate your surroundings with ease thanks to the built-in downlight which emits a soft, atmospheric https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2361d278-35bc-44e5-8c0d-62e95dd71588/Portable+lamps-+outdoor+Floor+Lamp.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - SLEEK OUTDOOR PORTABLE FLOOR LAMP Photo: Lime Lace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/829b5038-c4f4-473f-8110-7f38c3e981d1/The+Interior+Style+Host-Portable+lighting-Gingko-Baton+Light.jpg BLOG - PORTABLE LAMPS - Stylish Cordless Designs to Light Up Your Home - PORTABLE WALL LIGHT Photo: The Design Gift Shop https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/home-tours-ubuntuvilla monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cf0136c7-45d6-40a2-b6c6-7e63c0d43c50/Sandra+van+Aalst-theInterior+Syle+Host.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - WELCOME TO THE BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra. If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe, as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help you style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/aa993807-91c1-420e-b40d-e593081f0527/House+tour-Ubuntu+copy.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - WELCOME TO UBUNTU LUXURY VILLA All photography by Anouk at Dean Productions https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/707cdd51-edf1-42e5-af5c-f2cdfd94c3ff/Home+tours-Ubuntu+living+room+to+terrace.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - THE LIVING ROOM Photo credit Garden Trading https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4239e858-67ac-4e76-b21c-5cbe14f46f65/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-Ubuntu-Living+Area+copy.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - GALLERY WALL Photo credit The 1 hotel Miami South Beach photographed by Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/30bfd6a2-fa84-430e-bc1b-4b4c9e2d360a/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-Ubuntudetails.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - LIVING ROOM STYLISH DETAILS Along the low-level table that runs across the stone wall, Anouk has styled all sorts of interesting pieces, including a pair of elegant, hand-carved wooden giraffes, which she has placed alongside a bold, black and white patterned African shield. What I really admire about Anouk’s approach is how every piece she chooses tells a story. Just like with almost every item in the villa, these are all locally made, supporting artisans. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4cde016e-4a56-445e-9dd6-bb4dfbed2002/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-Ubuntukitchen.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - THE KITCHEN Two large rattan pendant lights add texture and make a statement over the stone kitchen island. All the woodwork, including the kitchen cabinetry pictured here, was made locally in Hoedspruit, making this kitchen not only look beautiful but a showcase of local craftsmanship. I love how Anouk has kept the design clean and contemporary while still letting the natural grain of the wood shine through. It brings such an organic feel that ties in perfectly with her styling and the earthy tones of the wall-hung woven baskets. The central island is both practical and stylish, designed with the hob placed right in the middle so cooking can also be a sociable experience. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f44ad83e-a241-4f1a-bc2c-ac37a3faa259/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-Ubuntushelf+.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - KITCHEN STYLISH DETAILS On the open wood shelving in the kitchen, Anouk has created a vignette with a detailed black cast-iron teapot, which is displayed alongside a white ceramic cactus and a framed map of South Africa. I like the way she has mixed practical kitchen items with decorative pieces, so the kitchen feels lived-in yet still curated. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4038db35-2c5b-486b-bf48-116c51a21ea0/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-Ubuntuterrace.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - THE TERRACE The terrace brings the interior design from inside to the outside. This is a place to truly relax, take in the surroundings, and the beauty of the wilderness. Anouk has styled the seating area with a sofa dressed in deep mustard and soft taupe cushions, plus a leopard-print pillow that ties in perfectly. In the centre, a sleek concrete table adds a modern edge, topped with a woven tray holding small decorative items and a potted plant. To give it that textured, rustic finish that feels completely at home in the bush, the ceiling is clad in locally sourced sticks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8d2924cd-3e70-4996-ba12-40d88343c4a7/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-Ubuntuterracedetails.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - TERRACE STYLISH DETAILS Even on the terrace, Anouk has styled vignettes, blending the modern design of the furniture with African artefacts. The table shown here has a contemporary shape in a smooth bronze-toned finish and a fashionably shaped base, adding a touch of modern sophistication to the outdoor space. On top, Anouk has displayed a beautifully woven African basket, a hand-carved wooden animal full of charm, and a candle to bring warmth in the evenings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ab854440-1d38-4c8f-9237-c7acd78c56cd/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-UbuntuIngwebedroom.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - INGWE BEDROOM Native touches, like the leopard-print throw and the wooden map of Africa, bring distinctive character to the Ingwe bedroom, which means "leopard" in Zulu. The couple have designed the bedroom in soft, neutral tones, making the space feel instantly restful. One of Anouk’s photographs of a leopard is displayed above the bed. There’s a modern rustic feel here, from the upholstered headboard to the wooden bench at the foot of the bed. And just through the sliding barn-style door, you’ve got your own en-suite bathroom, so it feels like a private retreat within the villa. It’s understated, comfortable, and quietly full of personality. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/85f35178-fa14-4c2c-95e8-6f2fc6fce42c/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-Ubuntubedroomseating+copy.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - INGWE BEDROOM DETAILS Anouk and Dennis have created the Ingwe bedroom, which has been designed to be more than just a place to sleep. They've created a cosy little seating area in the corner with a mustard velvet armchair and a bold, patterned cushion. There’s also a sleek wooden desk paired with a leather chair, giving guests the option to work or write while surrounded by views of the bush outside. The vast leopard canvas above ties beautifully into the room’s theme, while small details like the woven wall hanging, modern floor lamp and textured side table add depth and warmth to the room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c0f639dc-974a-4ce1-825f-a16894a74d2c/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-Ubuntuframe.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - MEANINGFUL CLOSE UPS On the desk in the Ingwe bedroom, there’s a patterned wooden frame which holds a print explaining the meaning of the name of the villa. Ubuntu, which means humanity to others, is summed up perfectly in the phrase “I am, because we are,” and a reminder that this villa is also about community and connection. Anouk has grouped the frame with an amber glass reed diffuser and a string of golden glass beads on a stand to add interest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/29fc9065-75f3-42b2-8a91-a39985a76814/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-Ubuntubedroom+copy+2.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - MANGWA BEDROOM Anouk has woven into the Mangwa bedroom more South African-inspired touches that run throughout the villa. A striking woven piece of wall decor, crafted from natural and black straw, hangs above the bed, along with her own photograph on canvas of two zebras, reminding you that you’re close to the Kruger National Park. Like the Ingwa bedroom, Anouk has dressed the bed in white linen with a deep blue throw and matching chevron-patterned cushions, giving it a stylish, calm and inviting look. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f4ff587f-a010-431e-af29-ec6542928987/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-UbuntuManngwa+copy.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - STYLISH DETAILS In the Mangwa bedroom, there’s another one of Anouk’s little vignettes that perfectly blends modern style with a nod to the local wildlife. A concrete planter with a soft gold accent, containing a small succulent, sits on a sleek black wire side table next to a beaded zebra sculpture, which is handcrafted and unmistakably African. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8c4c34ad-ab34-4599-a72b-449c297321a2/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-UbuntubathRoom-.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - EN SUITE BATHROOM With its soft, neutral palette, this en-suite bathroom is such a beautiful mix of modern fixtures and natural textures. With its pebble-tiled floor for that spa-like feel, the walk-in shower is framed by sleek glass panels. The basin consoles are crafted from locally made wood, bringing warmth and a subtle, rustic touch to the otherwise clean, contemporary lines. Above each basin hangs a round mirror suspended from leather straps, while an attractive woven basket is practical for towels but also perfectly in keeping with the villa’s natural materials. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5267b86f-8ec5-4851-8f3d-1c6f8a32757e/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-UbuntuMangwa+bthroomcopy.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - BATHROOM DETAILS In the Mangwa en suite, Anouk shows how small details can completely elevate a space and how you can turn everyday bathroom items into design features. Here you’ll find decorative circular brass towel hooks and a contemporary round mirror with a rope strap, paired with a handwoven wall hanging, which brings an artisanal touch to the bathroom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/dcf975f2-837e-4f0b-a759-27ac2dbd0dd3/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-Ubuntuoutdoorshower.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - OUTDOOR SHOWER There’s something magical about showering in the fresh air, and Ubuntu villa has not one, but two outdoor showers, each accessed directly from a bathroom. Surrounded by a natural wooden screen, you feel completely private, yet you are still outdoors and immersed in the landscape. The water cascades from a modern shower head, while locally sourced products in attractive white bottles are neatly mounted on the wall, giving an outdoor shower the luxuries of inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1ef040ef-b70b-4b42-aea8-eb9f89033309/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-Ubuntu-Anouk.jpg BLOG - HOME TOURS - A Stylish South African villa - MEET ANOUK Meet Anouk, the creative eye behind much of what you’ve seen in the article, including the stunning photographs of wild animals that adorn the walls. Not only is she a talented commercial photographer for Dean Productions, which she runs along with her husband, Dennis, but she is also a passionate wildlife photographer. Here, she is in action, capturing a magnificent male lion out in the wild. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/brown-interior-ideas-inspiration monthly 0.5 2026-03-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f266022-027e-4929-a4ad-485bb03a7ace/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - Welcome to the BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra. If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe (see below) as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help you style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. On this blog, I’ll be sharing insightful articles packed with advice, tips, and ideas for home styling and decoration, along with inspiring tours of beautifully styled spaces. Having styled countless homes with very different interiors, I know it’s the final touches and thoughtful curating that make a space magazine-worthy, regardless of whether it’s an architectural masterpiece or filled with high-end furniture. And, rather than focus on one particular interior look or style, I aim to open your eyes to a wide variety so you feel inspired, not limited. This week’s blog is about embracing the current colour brown, looking at different shades and ways to bring it into your interior. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6990a6c5-01bd-4c8f-924d-45f833aa831d/Brown+interior+inspiration-The+interior+style+host.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - BROWN INTERIOR IDEAS Photo credit Garden Trading https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1c7621b9-9d8a-4b2e-8c91-bba14f3dd284/Brown+interior+inspiration-WOW%21House+25+Shepelhomebar.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - COCOONING WITH BROWN - THE DESIGNER WAY Photo: James McDonald at WOW!House at The Design Centre Chelsea Harbour https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7aa2b513-ee80-4fd1-aff0-44408bed9170/Brown+interior+ideas-wall-six-the-residence+chair.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - BROWN PAIRING WITH CREAM Photo: Six The Residence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c0a6ae8a-11b2-4692-8641-ca58698fe7da/Brown+interior+inspiration+gallery+walls+Spicy+Revival.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - BROWN ARTWORK Photo: Desenio https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/bbcc16be-f5fc-47a4-b054-5f2509f3dedd/Brown+interior+inspiration-rug-CaffeLatte.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - BRINGING IN BROWN WITH A RUG Photo: Caffe Latte https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8687ed60-6bfb-46aa-aeed-2db28916fd57/Brown+interior+inspiration-Libra+brown+coffee+table.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - PAIRING BROWN-TONED FURNITURE Photo: Libra https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/efe67c3c-8f91-4aca-a83f-4373de3dce5d/Brown+interior+ideas-rugs.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - COMBINING BROWN TEXTURES Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/92e16c12-b7b6-453f-960c-7d034facda47/Brown+ideas-sofas-ArteriorsSofa.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - OPTING FOR A BROWN-TONED SOFA Photo: Arteriors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6af8710d-d907-4e85-8006-229f55c04b09/Brown+interior+ideas-cushions.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - SMALL DOSES OF BROWN WITH CUSHIONS Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5f9c1416-a594-4ec5-8788-f102365bab21/Brown+interior+ideas-bedside+table-folkinteriors.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - TEAMING WARM BROWNS WITH WITH BLACK ACCENTS Photo: Folk Interiors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d978e6a0-75b0-41be-8258-503cb15d703d/Brown+interior+inspiration-ightsandlampscom-.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - BROWN-TONED LIGHTING IN THE BEDROOM Photo: Lights and Lamps https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2cb0b4f2-b538-4b88-a556-2c69cf628453/Brown+interior+inspiration-+brown+vessels.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - INTRODUCING BROWN DECOR Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a6c689c5-2465-4dbd-80d8-a918ebcab945/Brown+interior+inspiration-wooden+furnature-laskasas.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - BACK TO NATURE WITH BROWN-TONED WOOD Photo: Laskasas https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8737c77a-fe0a-4681-a2e4-3f656791e726/Brown+interior+inspiration-Little+Greene+Purple+Brown+Glazed+Rectangle+Tile.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - ENHANCING YOUR BATHROOM WITH BROWN-TONED TILES Photo: Hyperion Tiles https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/561d2574-182d-4f01-a868-8df6cbf497e9/Brown+interior+inspiration-wallpaper-Arte.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - TEXTURED BROWN WALL COVERINGS Photo: Arte https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c76dd0be-4d1a-4660-9a9b-b86e70cbb1c9/Brown+interiors-Ian+Mankin+brown+Curtains.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - SUPPORTING BROWNS WITH CURTAINS Photo: Ian Mankin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a620c6b5-ff3e-48b0-9226-83de6901d235/brown+ideas+-Earthborn+-+Rocky+Horse.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - COOLER SHADES OF BROWN Photo: Earthborne https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e0b96d52-2c9e-4b9d-8012-e10f7a2f0f08/Brown+ideas-paint-Benjamin+MooreLeather+Saddle+Brown.jpg BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - SADDLE BROWN WALLS Photo: Benjamin Moore paint https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e812ede6-5061-4506-b172-e1b066316f0e/Brown+interior+inspiration-rugsociety-brown-rug.j BLOG - Brown Interiors: Stylish ideas for Décor, Furniture and Colour Schemes - WARM TONES Photo credit The 1 hotel Miami South Beach photographed by Sandra van Aalst https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/styling-with-driedflowers monthly 0.5 2026-03-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cf0136c7-45d6-40a2-b6c6-7e63c0d43c50/Sandra+van+Aalst-theInterior+Syle+Host.jpg BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - Welcome to the BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra. If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe (see below) as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help you style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/929b2670-0a84-4693-b1ef-a62e2e05d82c/Dried+flowers-the+Interior+Style+host-+flower+arrangement.jpg BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - STYLING WITH FLOWERS & SEED PODS These are dried alliums I photographed here in a Dutch house. I love their natural, yet almost stately, look displayed on stands. Their versatility makes them just as at home in high-end interiors as in everyday styling, proving that nature’s beauty doesn’t have to be fleeting. Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/48716514-4b7b-493b-9d9d-ee427e455fbd/Dried+flowers-the+interiorstylehost-arge+bouquet.jpg BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - CREATING A DRIED FLOWER ARRANGEMENT Dried flowers look equally as good in both luxury settings and everyday styling. This beautiful display in Chewton Glen Hotel, demonstrates the versatility of dried arrangements, and also proves that nature’s beauty doesn’t have to be fleeting, like with fresh flowers that the hotel usually have to renew every week. To create this display, florist Emma Newton-Smith from Arcade flowers has included dried grasses, preserved copper beech leaves, ferns, teasels and preserved eucalyptus, as well as five handmade peonies that she hand crafted from wood chip, which create a striking contrast to the autumnal colours of the grasses and leaves. You can also add faux flowers to your arrangement at home, like the peonies shown here. Photo: Sandra van Aalst photographed at Chewton Glen Hotel. Flowers from and arranged by Arcade flowers https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/74669a3a-07fc-4392-893c-47e4aebba8af/Dried+flowers-the+InteriorStyleHost-Preserved+Hydrangea+-+Saffron.jpg BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - PRESERVED HYDRANGEA HEADS WITH TIPS ON PRESERVING YOUR OWN This deep saffron preserved hydrangea head would give a burst of colour to any interior. You could almost call it a statement piece that would lift any corner of a room and work in a vignette, as well as stand alone. This particular stem is from Dowsing & Reynolds and has been preserved with colourant added to achieve this wonderful mustard colour. Preserved flowers have the sap removed and replaced with a glycerine-based dye which keeps the petals fresh for up to three years. This is not quite as easy as drying flowers, but you can still try this at home by standing stems in a solution of one part glycerine and two parts water. Cut off the end of the stem beforehand. Along with hydrangeas, other flowers and leaves that work well when preserved include eucalyptus and ruscus leaves, as well as magnolia, roses, carnations and statice. Photo: Dowsing and Reynolds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/bea2a02a-d7e5-4f36-b0f0-10a7435847ca/Dried+flowers+styling+ideas-hydrangea+heads.jpg BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - DRIED HYDRANGEA HEADS Dried hydrangea heads are an effortlessly stylish way to bring florals into your home, especially in a chic neutral-toned metal vase, like the one shown here. I find hydrangea heads are the easiest flower to dry. You can just leave them in a pot without water and you don’t even need to hang them upside down. I have dried mainly the pink, purple and red-toned full-head hydrangeas. Hydrangea Annabelle and the lace cap varieties are harder to dry, but if you do manage to dry them, they look very effective, like in the image here. Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/fe47b6f9-78fc-48e2-a208-3ca177a53404/dried+flowers-adding+colour.jpg BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - TINTING DRIED AND PRESERVED FLOWERS WITH DYE You can tint your own dried and preserved flowers with striking results, like the terracotta-toned amaranths and blush-pink gypsophila shown here. The easiest and less messy, is spray tint, or alternatively dye the flowers with food colouring, fabric dye or a water-based floral dye. Look for a dye in your chosen colour and pour it into a container. Wear protective gloves before immersing the flower in the dye. The longer you leave the flower in the dye, the more intense the colour. Once you have the desired shade, rinse off excess dye and leave to dry. If you are using a spray, hold it 20-30 centimetres away from the flower and spray. Leave for a few minutes, and if you need to, spray again for a deeper shade. Photo: Sandra van Aalst photographed in the Frato showroom at The Design Centre Chelsea Harbour https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a8923187-771c-4fcb-9d4b-c7d0317c8c1c/Dried+Flowers-mixing+varieties+5+Stem+Bunch.jpg BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - MIXING VARIETIES It feels more natural if you mix varieties of dried and preserved flowers with dried grasses and leaves to make an interesting bunch. This bouquet features a maple leaf, autumn leaf, foxtail, and three large proteas, boasting a range of textures and giving a handmade touch, and looks great displayed in a rustic stoneware pot, adding interest to the wooden dining table. The large protea flowers, also called sugar bushes, dry well and, due to their size and shape, look striking either as three single stems or mixed with other grasses or leaves like the ones here from Ruma. Photo: Ruma https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a00ed5ae-f1dc-4c03-a074-50becb4bcd86/Dried+flowers-the+InteriorStyleHost-bunches.JPG BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - THE BEST FLOWER VARIETIES TO DRY I popped by Abbey Farm Flowers, a dried flower shop set in an old piggery, when visiting a friend in the Dorset countryside. This proved very useful as they added to my list of flowers to dry. They grow their own and also dry them, and I soon spotted my favourite, which were dahlias. I bought a few small red ones as they looked really effective, but the shop owner pointed out that they are more tricky to dry, especially the larger varieties, due to the size of the petals. So if you are a fan like I am, opt for smaller dahlias. I love to experiment with different flowers to see what dries well, holds colour, and what can add interest to a display. Here is a list of flowers you can dry at home. Alliums Cowslip Hydrangeas Statice Poppy seed heads Lotus flowers Elderberry flowers Fennel flowers Strawflowers Nigella Larkspur Gypsophila Scabiosa Honesty Achillea Eryngium Dahlias Clematis vitalba Clematis tangutica Linum Photo: Sandra van Aalst at Abbey Farm Flowers, Dorset https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b2293f8d-d926-4aa7-a4b4-3a0c9a4a213e/Inspiration+from+Focus%3A25+on+design-Brown+cushions.png BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - ON-TREND WITH TONE AND NATURAL TEXTURE The great thing about this arrangement and brown pot is the colour palette - those rich, earthy tones feel so current. I photographed this arrangement in one of the showrooms at the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour and aside from the colours, I love the combined textures, as the display looks grounded yet stylish. This kind of bouquet proves just how dried flowers can work well contemporary interiors as well as rustic and traditional settings. As you can see here, dried flowers are an excellent alternative to fresh flowers for showrooms, shops, hotels and offices, too. Photo: Sandra van Aalst photographed in the Romo showroom at The Design Centre Chelsea Harbour https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b9f96bd1-90ab-4043-8b2d-ffc8eaaeda7b/Dried+flowers-the+InteriorStyleHost-+copy.jpg BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - DISPLAYED ON STANDS I have just returned from a trip to the Netherlands and was reminded of how many items are displayed on small black boxes or stands, like the ones pictured here. They usually have a spike, so are ideal to display a couple of impressive single flowers, like the alliums I photographed here a few years back in a classic house in The Netherlands. Styled in front of a mirror, they really made an impression in the entryway. Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/352b1d7b-747b-4243-b7d0-077b101d9bde/Dried+flowers-the+InteriorStyleHost-Autumn+Glow+Bedside+D%C3%A9cor+-+Portrait.jpg BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - IDEAL FOR THE BEDROOM In this image, a rich-toned amber vase filled with dried florals and eucalyptus leaves looks gorgeous, especially at this time of year. Displayed on a bedside table, what these flowers also demonstrate is that they are far less likely to trigger allergies, making them a stylish and comfortable choice for a bedroom. Echoing the earthy tones of the flowers, this arrangement and vase from Furniture And Choice are perfect for the season. Photo: Furniture and Choice https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/fff5437c-ba9b-4ade-8a28-f72152f538e0/Dried+flowers-the+InteriorStyleHost-Wow+house.jpg BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - STYLISH LUXURY I came across this arrangement of alliums while visiting the WOW!House at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour this summer, a show house that showcases some of the most stunning interiors. What I was particularly drawn to was how the bunch of dried alliums were incorporated into such a sophisticated setting. proving that even in the most high-end of homes, the sculptural beauty of dried arrangements look elegant. Photo: Sandra van Aalst photographed at WOW!House DCCH https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cf1fa965-c449-41fb-9f82-c87e1f88e648/Dried+flowers-the+InteriorStyleHost-.Heavenly+Homes+and+Gardens%2C+Stoneware+Vase.jpg BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - STYLING IN A COLLECTIONS I have always been a fan of collections, especially of small vases and other vessels. As a grouping, these five vases placed together really create an impact. It’s such a versatile styling trick, and you don’t need to fill every one, as it’s the mix of different shapes which creates a curated display. Adding just a few dried flowers and grasses, like in these retro-style stoneware vases from Heavenly Homes and Gardens shown here, demonstrates that even the smallest of arrangements can bring interest to a space. Photo: Heavenly Homes and Gardens https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1aa52da4-b1bf-48be-8365-96a3e98f0a2b/Dried+flowers-the+InteriorStyleHost-Terracotta+vase.jpg BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - STYLE YOUR IN BEAUTIFUL VESSELS AND VASES Have you ever bought a gorgeous vessel only to find it leaks when you want to fill it with water to display your favourite flowers? Dried flowers make it easy to enjoy vases like the one pictured here, so there’s no need to worry about whether a vase or vessel is fully waterproof. This terracotta piece, with its earthy finish from Chic Antique at The Wisteria Tree, makes the case that a vase with dried flowers can be both practical and elegant. Photo: The Wisteria Tree https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/44a157b7-251a-4c83-b3b7-1fed7cff05fb/Dried+flowers+styling+ideas-small+displays.jpg BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - SMALL BUT STYLISH I spotted this display at the Design Centre, a perfect example of how understated styling with dried flowers can still have impact. Even the tiniest bunch of dried blooms placed in a small bud vase, like the blush-toned ones shown here, instantly introduces nature to a contemporary interior. These florals have been styled on a small tray next to ceramic vases of various heights in a similar neutral palette, which altogether creates a stylish vignette. To bring in extra colour, the medium-sized vase is filled with gorgeous rust-red plumes and dusky-toned preserved eucalyptus leaves. Photo: Sandra van Aalst photographed in the Frato showroom at The Design Centre Chelsea Harbour https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/918e6c43-222b-48c1-a380-b15ed11d86dc/Dried+flowers-the+InteriorStyleHost-Palm+Leaf+Vase.jpg BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - DRYING FLOWERS With their natural texture and form, these woven palm-leaf vases pair wonderfully with dried bunches of lavender, pampas, or wildflowers. What I especially like is how these three vessels can be used to dry flowers directly, which is more practical and attractive than the traditional method of hanging them upside down. Below are some tips on drying flowers. Pick flowers that are mature. Cut on a dry day, as if damp, they might go mouldy. Remove all the lower leaves, leaving only a few at the top of the stem. If these don’t dry well, you can take them off. Place in bunches of no more than 5 stems and hang upside down in a dry room, and leave for at least 2 weeks. To help prevent shedding and keep flowers in shape, spray with a artists fixative or simply hair spray. Photo: Bohemia Design Ltd https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/15639fb8-51bd-4e86-a176-21055d849e67/Dried+flowers+-+the+interior+style+host-where+to+buy.jpg BLOG - Dried Flowers - how to style, dry and preserve flowers - WHERE TO BUY DRIED FLOWERS, LEAVES AND GRASSES ETSY www.etsy.com DRIED FLOWERS DECOR www.driedflowersdecor.co.uk DESIGN BY NATURE www.designbynature.co DUNELM www.dunelm.com/category/home-decor/flowers-and-plants/dried-flowers H & M www2.hm.com/en_gb/home/shop-by-product/flowers-plants.htm ROXANNE’S DRIED FLOWERS www.roxannesdriedflowers.comference ANA HANA FLOWER. www.row.anahanaflower.com AMAZON www.amazon.com Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/stunning-vacation-rentals monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cf0136c7-45d6-40a2-b6c6-7e63c0d43c50/Sandra+van+Aalst-theInterior+Syle+Host.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Welcome to the BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra. If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe, as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help you style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5316d692-84a6-4102-b810-fd7768b85aaf/Interior+Style+Host-Beautifully+styled+vacation+homesJTH_Tucson.JPG BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - BEAUTIFULLY STYLED VACATION HOMES Photo: Sara & Rich Combs The Joshua Tree House© and Margaret Austin Photography© www.thejoshuatreehouse.com/tucson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/231ac00b-9230-4c9f-890e-5a13631bdc3d/Interior+Style+Host+-+Beautifully+styled+vacation+homes+-+JTH_Posada-living+room.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - THE JTH TUCSON ARIZONA, USA Photos: Sara & Rich Combs of The Joshua Tree House© and Margaret Austin Photography© www.thejoshuatreehouse.com/tucson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/29de855f-52c5-4ec2-adf1-e044f403ec53/Interior+Style+Host+-+Beautifully+styled+vacation+homes+-+JTH+Possada+bedroom.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out In the Yucca bedroom, as shown above, Sara and Rich have blended modern with traditional elements, such as the vintage rug and an original beehive fireplace. One of the features I admire and am keen to replicate in my own house is the vast dried palm leaves hanging above the bed as a nod to the desert surroundings. Then there’s the headboard in a rich mustard hue with leather straps that is suspended on the wall. Finally, touches like the brass wall lights and natural textures, like woven side tables, add stylish touches to the bedroom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7209b331-49f9-40a6-9b4e-56c16df926fb/Interior+Style+Host+-+Beautifully+styled+vacation+homes+-+JTH_Posada+bathroom.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out With its sunken bath decorated with green mosaic tiles and a walk-in shower, the bathroom has an inviting, spa-like feel. The palette is pared back but contrasts with the beautiful dark-beamed ceiling and is filled with greenery that thrives in natural light. Plants hang above the bath, while large potted types sit next to it, giving the space a restorative atmosphere. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6451dbe0-10be-45e5-b4ad-333b77a89602/Interior+Style+Host+-+Beautiful+location+rentals.+PosadaJTHTuscan.JPG BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out This dining room is stunning with its mixed fe materials - the geometric tiled floor, and ethereal pendant light hanging above the rustic wooden table. Look through the arch, and you’ll notice built-in shelves with the wood echoing the table’s grain and ceiling beams. Earthy-toned tableware, glasses, wooden bowls, and other earthenware items are all beautifully displayed on the mix of wood and plaster shelving, giving the whole space a cohesive feel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/562d1c43-5214-4680-b829-ac63739618fc/Interior+Style+Host-Beautifully+styled+vacation+homes-bedroom+at+The+Stack.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - THE STACK AN OLD ENGINE HOUSE CORNWALL, UK Photos: courtesy of Unique Homestays. The Stack House is marketed under the name of The Stack. All images Unique Homestays© www.uniquehomestays.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/600c2d97-38d6-4d01-8a15-584f8e4da54d/Interior+Style+Host-Beautifully+styled+vacation+homes-bathroom+at+The+Stack.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out It is amazing to think that this beautiful bathroom is located in an old engine house, but with its arch-shaped window, imposing ceilings, and rustic floorboards, the building provides the perfect backdrop. The slipper bath introduces classic elegance to the room, while the grand gilded mirror serves as the focal point, adding glamour to the bathroom. For final touches, the room has been styled with a tray displaying candles on the large window ledge, accompanied by wild flowers from the garden in simple glass vases. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0c36964c-9d59-4ce4-a670-4f91280268f8/Interior+Style+Host+beautilly+styled+vacation+homes-The+Stack+window+seat.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out I love this styled corner with a window seat and cushions in soft, muted tones, inviting you in, while a small wooden tray has been styled with a hand-thrown mug and a vase of flowers which add lived-in charm. With its rustic stone wall and brass bed warmer, it’s a little corner that captures the essence of The Stack. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/48bdcc5f-5b22-4163-bab9-acb22199c38b/Stylish+vacation+rentals%2CThe+Stack.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out In the kitchen, pictured above, the striking stone wall provides an ideal backdrop for the wooden shelves incorporating a plate rack and showcasing vintage bottles, books, and plates. The kitchen also features a large butcher's block-style island and dining table, which is dressed stylishly with a textured linen tablecloth, green glasses, and candlesticks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7c007a2e-24a1-4c5c-9c67-097eaff436d2/Stunning+vacation+rentals-the+Interior+Style+Host-Captain%27s+rest-daybed.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - CAPTAIN’S REST TASMAINIA, AUSTRAILIA Photos: Jonathan Rose www.captainsrest.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/41030364-d859-40de-8c93-93a8a747880b/Interior+Style+Host-Captain%27s+rest-bedroom.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out The bedroom is styled in earthy hues which draw the eye, with a deep green crumpled linen throw and pillows teamed with fine and bold stripes. The bed is a perfect example of layering to create an undone, stylish vibe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f7eb2473-01b9-463c-9ac1-1beb937f1fbf/Interior+Style+Host-Captain%27s+rest-shelving.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out Set against the shiplap wall on a shelf in the kitchen, Sarah has arranged a series of different-sized clay pots displaying stems of the dried silver dollar plant, next to vintage framed artwork and a timeworn fishing net. A neat row of earthenware cups is attractive and practical, as they are easy to find for guests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/30110ceb-5590-4f00-b74f-201532e6ad75/Interior+Style+Host-Captain%27s+rest-view+throughwindows.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out The living room has the best of both worlds - views of the sea through the antique windows and, with its wood burning stove, a cosy winter atmosphere. Here you can snuggle up next to the fire on the enticing velvet day bed or sink into the sofa with a book and take in the stunning view. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/14d0c8a9-4a4b-4dca-ba59-9e7ae2054ce9/Interior+Style+Host+beautilly+styled+vacation+homes-Old+Stables-dining+area.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - THE OLD STABLES NEW FOREST, UNITED KINDOM Photos: Sandra van Aalst for a house feature in Seasons Wonen, Modern Farmhouse and 25 Beautiful Homes www.warbornefarm.co.uk https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1a9a22c9-dd78-47d9-a46a-47320208cf4a/Stylish+mirror+ideas-Interior+Style+Host-window+mirror.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out This is another room where new finishes, like the Tadelakt plaster walls, are teamed with traditional style, such as the roll-top bath and original Crittall windows, which George has cleverly upcycled into a mirror. The sill is made from a piece of driftwood, which really adds natural texture and has been styled simply with rustic concrete pots, brimming with flowers and plants, to add greenery and enhance the overall look of the bathroom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/38445129-c397-4fa0-9579-1ff4de19793d/Interior+Style+Host+beautilly+styled+vacation+homes-Old+stables+living+room.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out In the living area, the original stable doors immediately reflect the character of the barn. To furnish the space, Kate sourced an old Victorian medicine cabinet where she displays coloured glassware, which has become both a practical and stylish addition to the space. The armchair was a family heirloom, which she reupholstered in a soft grey striped fabric and styled with a grey Mongolian sheepskin and a rectangular striped cushion as a contrast. This room goes to show how carefully considered vintage pieces can really elevate a place and give it a sense of history. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/50b1dbe9-ca0d-4781-bcaa-3b1156bc570f/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+the+Interior+Style+Host+custom+made+silver+birch+bed.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out This has to be one of the most unique bedrooms I have ever styled and photographed. George hand-crafted the entire bed frame from silver birch trees found on the farm, which, with the raw bark, has that natural, rustic feel. I love how the rugged timber sits against the clean, modern, polished concrete floor, and how even the clothes rail and dressing table have been fashioned from the same wood, making the whole room feel connected to its rural surroundings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0faca008-e0a6-4b2a-b930-83ccbe0be60f/Interior+Style+Host+beautilly+styled+vacation+homes-Casa+Alegria+kitchen+.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - CASA ALEGRIA PORTUGAL Photos: Maria Myers @casaslegria.cabanas https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/28895201-52c4-484c-a89d-212256e179ef/Interior+Style+Host+beautilly+styled+vacation+homes-Casa+Alegria+bathrrom+with+basin.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out The bathroom has that relaxed, coastal charm in white and accessorised with muted colours. Everything is kept pared back and neutral. The woven mirror frame feels like a little piece of art, teamed with a striped towel and rattan pendant for that beach vibe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9aefa1bb-ee42-4d1f-b818-600049ce279b/Interior+Style+Host+beautilly+styled+vacation+homes-Casa+Alegria+terrace.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out The terrace area brings the interior vibe outdoors and is also decorated with oversized pendants and is styled like another indoor room with cushions, crockery, and table runners, all in various neutral shades of taupe and beige. Maria’s styling proves how you can turn a simple white table into a gorgeous tablescape. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0dbdbf01-e153-41c8-8107-97d4cf82f9f9/Interior+Style+Host+beautilly+styled+vacation+homes-Casa+Alegria+bedroom+with+bath.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out The bedrooms are equally stylish with crisp white linens dressed with throws and cushions, and in the master bedroom, along with a freestanding bath, Maria has draped fabric over the bed for that dreamy sleep experience. This is a creative idea to give that canopy bed feel, but in a simpler, easier way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9f4bd145-4a22-4af7-a385-5c507e5659ff/Interior+Style+Host+-+Beautifully+styled+vacation+homes+-+Shalfleet+Conservatory.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - SHALFLEET - A SEVENTEENTH CENTURY MANOR IOW, UNITED KINGDOM Photos: Sandra van Aalst for a house feature in 25 Beautiful Homes and Wohnen magazine www.shalfleetmanor.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ee0e8d33-b3e4-4695-9962-03865261818d/Interior+Style+Host+-+Beautifully+styled+vacation+homes+-+Shalfleet+drawing+room.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out Every inch of this room tells a story of the manor's history, from its dark wood panelling to the intricate carvings on the centuries-old fireplace. Victoria has kept the palette soft and neutral so the woodwork can take centre stage, choosing cream linen upholstery with a burst of burnt orange on the velvet ottoman to add a more modern touch to the traditional scheme. Victoria had already styled the shelves with white ceramics, so, in keeping with the scheme, for the photoshoot, we added a few more white pieces to the fireplace, as well as fresh greenery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/91c81614-fac7-4619-a215-cb4d6fac12d7/Interior+Style+Host-House+tours-Shalfleet+bedroom.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out Mixing pattern-on-pattern in a room is always tricky to carry off, but Victoria has done this beautifully with the upholstered headboard in a soft blue floral print, sitting against wallpaper in a delicate chinoiserie design. The original dark wood beam gives the room a rustic touch, while the painted bedside table adds another shade of blue to the scheme. The different scales and motifs add depth and interest, and the blue tones complement rather than clash. To create this look, it’s wise to keep to the same tones, like Victoria has here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0fee0c94-028f-4cc7-927b-f0e36bb8c196/Interior+Style+Host-home+tours-ShalfleetLiving+room.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out As the living room is very spacious, Victoria has used the furniture, including seating and rugs, to anchor each space and create separate areas for a sense of cosiness. While Victoria was doing up the house, she sourced three intricately carved Moroccan trunks, which she has repurposed as side tables, bringing a touch of global character to the English country style. Victoria opted for elegant, classic-style chairs and sofas upholstered in natural textures, including striped ticking and linens, to bring a fresh, coastal feel to the room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ce55c69a-5e4a-4dd9-8fb7-15b1eaf64295/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-Ubuntu-livingarea.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - UBUNTU LUXURY VILLA, SOUTH AFRICA Photos: Anouk at Dean productions www.ubuntuvilla.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/bed0973a-07ca-4058-b54e-9e6af4d4d5a0/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-UbuntuIngwebedroom.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out Each bedroom is subtly themed after the couple's favourite animals – elephants, leopards, and zebras. They designed the master bedroom to pay homage to leopards, adding native touches like the leopard-print throw and the wooden map of Africa to bring in that distinctive local character to the Ingwe bedroom, which means "leopard" in Zulu. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9deb0a35-fbf3-4dda-a9a0-72c4812cdfbd/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-Ubuntu-Living+Area+copy.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out Anouk is a keen wildlife photographer and has created this gallery wall, in the image here, of her own close-up shots of animals native to South Africa. This is a space between the living area and the kitchen, and it shows how Anouk pays attention to detail in every corner of the villa by styling this area with the canvases above a tall woven table with a candle-lit lantern on it, together with a gold leopard - a stylish ornament that is another reminder for guests that they are in a wildlife estate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5267b86f-8ec5-4851-8f3d-1c6f8a32757e/Interior+Style+host+home+tour-UbuntuMangwa+bthroomcopy.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out In the Mangwa bedroom’s en suite, Anouk proves how small details can still help elevate a space and also how you can turn everyday bathroom items into design features. In the bathroom here, you’ll find decorative circular brass towel hooks and a contemporary round mirror with a rope strap, paired with a handwoven wall hanging, which brings an artisanal touch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/64b88560-0bdf-411f-8d42-6c872cf75331/Home+decor+stylish+lamp.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - THE BISCUIT COTTAGE MILFORD ON SEA Photos: Sandra van Aalst www.biscuitcottage.co.uk https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1732d1ce-3e1d-4aef-b24e-54369e0381ff/Interior+Style+Host+-+Beautifully+styled+vacation+homes-Biscuit+house+Living+room.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out Here’s another angle of the living room, with the exposed brick fireplace featuring the original brick hearth with a wood burner, which served as a focal point for Clare to design the room around. It is such a great feature, adding history and warmth to the space. I love how Clare has used luxurious textiles like the velvet grey ottoman, vintage rug, and wool throw to balance the ruggedness of the brick. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d716a42c-2047-424c-bef4-1a5786c3c801/Interior+Style+Host+-+Beautifully+styled+vacation+homes-Biscuit+house+bedroom.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out The bedroom is gorgeous, and you can see why it made it to the cover of my Top tips on creating a super stylish bed publication which will be out soon. Clare’s styling gives the bedroom a layered look with crisp white bedding, pale green cushions, and texture from the bedspread and sheepskin throw. The scheme feels fresh but still full of character with a clever mix of vintage, like the pre-loved painted bed frame, teamed with classic glass pendant lights. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f21ba17f-ca5b-4630-bef4-d0b91f69aaf8/Interior+Style+Host+-+Beautifully+styled+vacation+homes-Biscuit+house-bathroom.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out The French-style mirror, with its intricate detailing, was a vintage find that Clare painted in a soft green, which looks charming hanging above the elegant French-style La Chapelle basin she found on eBay. To add those finishing touches, Clare styled the basin with a few fresh flowers, an attractive product bottle, and a pretty soap dish. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5e552a4b-e7a2-46e0-9131-50cda96cff1b/Interior+Inspiration+-+Airbnbs+photo+of+Desert+Wild+by+Natalie+Saunders.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - DESERT WILD JOSHUA TREE CALIFORNIA Photos: Stephanie Wiley© & Marco Badalian© and courtesy of Natalie Saunders at Desert Wild© www.desertwildjoshuatree.com. desertwild_jt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b2aecb9b-1c7c-4b7b-9c3e-bee4e7ec2117/Interior+Style+Host+Beautifully+styled+places-bathroom+Desert+Wild.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out Curtains frame this Moroccan-inspired bathroom, which is stunning with its unusually deep soaking tub set behind a plaster arch. But what really impressed me was the view from the window of a cactus, which is such a clever way to add depth, greenery, and that feeling that you are in the desert while relaxing in the bath. Something I will take away and try to emulate in my own home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b1c7b1a4-a633-4f4e-86f0-2a48e17c57c3/Interior+Style+Host+Beautifully+styled+places-kitchen%3Adiner+of+Desert+Wild.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out With its plaster countertops, reclaimed wood cabinetry, and a large timber dining table handcrafted by local artisans, this kitchen/diner really encapsulates Natalie’s signature style. The woven pendant and other pieces of home decor in the kitchen were sourced on the couple’s travels to carry the global aesthetic throughout the house. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/03e18d5a-3292-4b0e-9305-901c9f74848d/Interior+Style+Host+Beautifully+styled+places-bedroom-+Desert+wild.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out I particularly like the colours in this bedroom, with the bed linen in light saffron tones continuing the earthy vibe. But what I find rather special is the large plaster arch behind the bed, which creates a striking headboard and echoes the arch into the bathroom. There are also interesting pieces, including woven storage baskets, brass wall sconces, and even customised Desert Wild sun hats on display. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d80a82ba-d2e2-447d-ad4c-6385bec6bb8c/Interior+Style+Host+beautilly+styled+vacation+homes-Sheepfold-livingarea.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - THE SHEEP FOLD CORNWALL, UNITED KINGDOM Photos: Sandra van Aalst for a feature in Ideal Home magazine https://hostunusual.com/property/sheepfold-and-sheepshed/ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/015599eb-4d31-4799-a9fd-a5eeb98586fa/Interior+Style+Host+beautilly+styled+vacation+homes-Sheepfold-bedroom.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out The bed was dressed with teal-coloured, crumpled washed linen, complemented by a silk dressing gown as a prop in similar tones and blended with yellow, which makes a striking combination. This maintains a cohesive look throughout the house with the yellow, which is carried into the bedroom with a wool throw, a rug, and a bunch of flowers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e3367c51-dd98-4496-8bf9-9b658c5f9da2/Interior+Style+Host+beautilly+styled+vacation+homes-Sheepshed-entryway.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out With its natural wood combined with pops of yellow, the Sheepfold has a vibrant and cohesive feel throughout. The entryway has simple but effective wooden circular hooks to hang up your bag after a day at the beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/89260e53-e051-4800-87eb-f685395c1ef5/Interior+Style+Host+beautilly+styled+vacation+homes-Sheepfold-kitchen.jpg BLOG - STUNNING VACATION HOMES - with ideas to steal for your own home - Make it stand out Some of the furniture and fixtures, including the kitchen cabinetry you can see in the image here, are bespoke and custom-made by Charlie. Clever use of colour features on unusual accents, such as a yellow tap and overhead fan extractor. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/interior-inspiration monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cf0136c7-45d6-40a2-b6c6-7e63c0d43c50/Sandra+van+Aalst-theInterior+Syle+Host.jpg BLOG - INTERIOR STYLING INSPIRATION - places to find ideas from stylish hotels to online home stores and more. - Welcome to the BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra, If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe, as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help all you interior enthusiasts to style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e8ad4fcb-7688-4db7-bafa-a13a48e9cb96/Interior+Inspiration+-+home+decor+stores-Katie+Fischer+Interiors.jpg BLOG - INTERIOR STYLING INSPIRATION - places to find ideas from stylish hotels to online home stores and more. - INTERIOR AND HOME DECOR INSPIRATION TO SPARK YOUR CREATIVITY Photo credit Garden Trading https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1a7590d9-6835-4a9e-87d5-c52b37df7894/Interior+Inspo+Hotels+InteriorStyle+Host+The+1+Hotel+Miami+South+Beach+.jpg BLOG - INTERIOR STYLING INSPIRATION - places to find ideas from stylish hotels to online home stores and more. - STYLISH HOTELS Photo credit The 1 hotel Miami South Beach photographed by Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5beca056-c815-4827-82d1-4cefddde8bdf/Interior+Inspiration-+wallcoverings+and+fabric-MINDTHEGAP.jpg BLOG - INTERIOR STYLING INSPIRATION - places to find ideas from stylish hotels to online home stores and more. - WALL COVERING AND FABRIC COMPANIES There are simply dozens of wall covering and fabric companies with inspirational designs, prints and room sets on their websites. Photo: Sandra van Aalst at MindTheGap showroom at The Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9ec6c205-f020-47b9-ab0a-1c534ab956e9/Interior+Inspiration+from+the+Interior+Style+host+-+Fashion+and+interiors.jpg BLOG - INTERIOR STYLING INSPIRATION - places to find ideas from stylish hotels to online home stores and more. - YOUR WARDROBE AND WHAT YOU WEAR What you wear can influence the decisions you make when styling and decorating your interior. Putting together outfits with colours, prints, and fabrics follows the same principle as pulling together an interior scheme. Pictured here is celebrity model Lisa Butcher dressed in one of her favourite colours and surrounded by interiors in similar hues. When I took the photographs for City Life magazine, Lisa had just finished decorating her bedroom in a blend of rich, bold greens. Photo: Sandra van Aalst - Lisa Butcher in her bedroom featured in City Life https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2c5736a5-9afb-4182-8480-e1eff232c119/Interior+Inspiration+-+Paint+companies+-+Annie+Sloan+++Bathroom+++Satin+Paint+In+Canvas+Riad+Terracotta+Wall+Paint+Chalk.jpg BLOG - INTERIOR STYLING INSPIRATION - places to find ideas from stylish hotels to online home stores and more. - PAINT BRANDS From rooms painted in neutral shades to bold hues, like the Annie Sloan Paint in the bathroom pictured here, paint companies’ websites and brochures are crammed full of striking room ideas. Photo: Annie Sloan paints https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/686e95fc-7574-4f9e-9199-16887954a3a7/Interior+Inspiration-Interior+Books-author+Sarah+Andrews+.jpg BLOG - INTERIOR STYLING INSPIRATION - places to find ideas from stylish hotels to online home stores and more. - INTERIOR BOOKS Interior books make great styling props on coffee tables or shelves and are also a source of inspiration. Pictured here is Sarah Andrews, stylist, teacher and author of two interior books The Poetry of Spaces and The Principles of Style. and host of Captain’s Rest a Vogue pick featured in my blog post: www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/stunning-vacation-rentals Photo: Jessica Tremp https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e16ccc8b-7bab-40c3-94a6-36449f5da298/Interior+inspo+La+Radoute+Adelita+table.jpg BLOG - INTERIOR STYLING INSPIRATION - places to find ideas from stylish hotels to online home stores and more. - ONLINE INTERIOR HOME STORES Home stores showcase their furniture, soft furnishings, and home decor on their websites by displaying them in complete room settings, where they put together a cohesive and styled scheme. For instance, in the image here, home store La Redoute is promoting their table, chairs, rug, and various decorative objects. Photo: La Redoute https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4ca76c69-5eaa-4db0-9f80-1c35e7e0b57c/Interior+Inspiration-bedding+companies.jpg BLOG - INTERIOR STYLING INSPIRATION - places to find ideas from stylish hotels to online home stores and more. - BEDDING AND BED COMPANIES If you want inspiration for both the bed frame and dressing the bed, Bed linen and bed companies are a goldmine for inspiration and styling ideas. Photo: Soak & Sleep https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7c9dd471-ce93-4635-b2b1-44ddbc7baba0/Interior+inspo+-+Lighting+-+Pooky+Spangle+Pendant+Lights.jpg BLOG - INTERIOR STYLING INSPIRATION - places to find ideas from stylish hotels to online home stores and more. - LIGHTING COMPANIES The lighting designers and stores showcase their light fixtures in gorgeous room settings, as in the kitchen pictured here, used to promote the two elegant pendants from Pooky. Photo: Pooky.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/66a855c3-4f04-4b6d-bff7-eb6e3b74df0b/Desert+Wild+living+room+by+Natalie+Saunders.jpg BLOG - INTERIOR STYLING INSPIRATION - places to find ideas from stylish hotels to online home stores and more. - STYLISH AIRBNBS It’s not only hotels that focus on design. Many Airbnbs boast gorgeous aesthetics. Some have been renovated or built from scratch, such as Desert Wild, pictured here, which is a stunning vacation rental situated in the desert in Joshua Tree. Photo: Natalie Saunders Desert Wild https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6e806bfb-0012-44a6-8601-9d5a14a3c7bb/Interior+Inspiration+theInteriorStyleHost-magazines.jpg BLOG - INTERIOR STYLING INSPIRATION - places to find ideas from stylish hotels to online home stores and more. - INTERIOR MAGAZINES Interior magazines are crammed with inspiration, and you can also visit their websites and sign up for their newsletters for regular inspiration. Photo: of Elle Decoration Country by Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cfa9a9fd-1807-4865-b669-7b8e98431591/screenshot+of+pinterest+account.jpg BLOG - INTERIOR STYLING INSPIRATION - places to find ideas from stylish hotels to online home stores and more. - PINTEREST & INTERIOR BLOGS Pinterest can be a huge source of inspiration, as can interior blogs. There are many interior blogs which are crammed with tips and advice. Here is my Pinterest page full of pins that I have chosen to save in my boards. Photo: Pinterest https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/focus-25-design-takeaways monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cf0136c7-45d6-40a2-b6c6-7e63c0d43c50/Sandra+van+Aalst-theInterior+Syle+Host.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - Welcome to the BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra, If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe, as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help all you interior enthusiasts to style and decorate your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/49ca8be4-6d42-4c2d-9aaf-ca323c872e5b/Focus%3A25+on+design-keystyling+and+decorationtakeaways.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN IN LONDON Photo credit Garden Trading https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4341af37-2358-401a-9751-43cbae7849ae/Inspiration+from+Focus%3A25+on+design-wallpaperdesign+at+Cole%26Son.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - Make it stand out LIVE ARTISTS IN ACTION AT COLE & SON Prints of animals appeared in many wallpaper and fabric collections, featuring various animals from around the globe, including monkeys, deer, meerkats, and jungle animals. At Cole & Son, we saw the launch of the Baobab collection, where we watched the original artists in action painting the intricate and incredibly detailed designs. The wallpaper pictured here, featuring giraffes and flora, showcases the rich nature of South Africa. In the showroom, it has been teamed with fringed cushions in rich textures that pair perfectly with the shimmering background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/11fea803-ea33-4a6c-9090-1daa8c778ece/Inspiration+from+Focus%3A25+on+design-Brown+sofa+and+bed.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - Make it stand out GORGEOUS ROOM SETTINGS WITH RICH, WARM TEXTURES Throughout the design centre, many showrooms featured beautifully elevated spaces. Shepel’, who redefines luxury with bespoke furniture in the richest of fabrics, is one of them, with their contemporary curved sofa shown here in brown-toned velvet and linen, embellished with a fringed trim. The bed on the right, in the Paolo Moschino showroom, caught my eye as I was drawn to the shape of the frame, which is inspired by Italian renaissance revival style. I also admired the styling of the bed with bright white linen teamed with deep green and rich, brown soft furnishings in tactile materials, as well as the Eastern-inspired artwork hanging above the bed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8fac3b56-5068-449c-8b26-5b40232112bc/Inspiration+from+Focus%3A25+on+design-Andrew+Martin+bed+and+cushions.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - Make it stand out INSPIRED BY THE ROMANCE OF FOLK TALES The gorgeous headboard fabric, cushions, and bedspread shown here are from Andrew Martin’s new collection in collaboration with award-winning interior designer Kit Kemp. Inspired by the romance of folk tales, Kit tells a fresh and exciting story through her designs. On the right is a small selection of Andrew Martin’s globally-inspired cushions, many of which have the latest key interior elements such as pattern, trimmings, and warm, earthy tones. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e4490503-ab8c-4ee8-a722-717572ef0a97/Inspiration+from+Focus%3A25+on+design-brown+tones-Roma+chair-Frato+moodboard.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - Make it stand out RETRO-INSPIRED INTERIOR PALETTE With 1970’s-inspired design now de rigueur, the current interior trend for brown is apparent in many showrooms, with warm shades including the caramel tones shown here. Brown is replacing cooler hues such as grey. However, if you have grey in your home, it doesn’t mean you have to abandon it altogether. Brown and grey can complement each other, so you can use it as a grounding base and simply introduce warm brown accents. On the right, a mood board pairs brown with warm metallics that are also on-trend right now. The fabric on the curtain and chair from Romo shown here, with its mystical creatures, was the star of the show, appearing on everything from the cover of Design Centre’s The Guide to a mural decorating the lifts in the centre. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2b6413e5-bcfa-4bc6-b8e6-92821649d0bc/Inspiration+from+Focus%3A25+on+design.+MINDTHEGAP.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - Make it stand out A LIVE TALK, PATTERN AND BOLD COLOUR AT MINDTHEGAP I attended the talk between John Cooper, the winner of BBC1’s Interior Design Masters, and Stefan Ormenisan, co-founder and the creative behind MindTheGap. Stefan has brought an eclectic yet distinctive design of rich pattern, colour, and style from Transylvania to the UK. What we gleaned from spending time at the showroom was how to gain the confidence to layer pattern and add colour through wallpaper, furniture, soft furnishings, rugs, and home decor. By having the courage to opt for one of MindTheGap’s boldest wallpapers in his final piece, John Cooper impressed the judges and went on to become the overall winner of the show. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7a058ca2-f291-4a7e-a461-39403c93782b/Inspiration+from+Focus%3A25+on+design-Ralph+Lauren.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - Make it stand out AMERICAN WEST INTERIOR STYLE AT RALPH LAUREN Drawing inspiration from the rugged landscapes and rich weaving traditions of the American West, Ralph Lauren Home unveiled their new Fall 2025 collection, Canyon Road. Geometric motifs and wool textiles echo the Indigenous artistry of the American West, with insect-based dyes bringing both an artisan and sustainably-minded feel to the collection. Layered tones of brown in the range create a grounded, cohesive palette and feel distinctly on-trend this season. Also referred to as cowboy interior style or Western design, you can bring this look into your own home with leather and wool, diamond-patterned accents, and soft furnishings in warm, earthy hues. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/377154e1-8786-4acb-af0b-6d02fda2d122/Inspiration+from+Focus%3A25+on+design-curvacious+shapes.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - Make it stand out CURVES AND ORGANIC SHAPES I have already featured curves in my key elements blog post and talked about how curved, fluid lines have captivated the interior world - a revival from the seventies that will be here to stay. I also revealed how I succumbed to a curved sofa myself, not dissimilar to the stunning cream model pictured here by Gallotti&Radice. Curves and organic shapes are more ergonomic and, from looking around the showrooms, are clearly continuing to dominate interiors, with more items taking on a curvaceous shape. Many vases, like the ones pictured here, as well as tables, mirrors, and bases of lamps, are defined by softer lines. Plus, curves, circles, and swirl designs can also be found on soft furnishings, upholstery, curtains, and rugs, which gives us all many more options to bring curves and organic shapes into our interiors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e12746f9-3a69-4aba-afb7-d6233e8cf84c/Focus%3A25+on+design-stylsih-lighting.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - Make it stand out STYLISH LIGHTING Table lamps are ideal for creating ambient lighting as the natural light starts to diminish at this time of year. The latest designs come in warm shades and organic materials, like the Amber lamp pictured right by Porta Romana, and the natural stone lamp I photographed in the Paolo Moschino showroom. The key takeaway from lighting isn’t just about the design, colours, and shades - it’s also about the power of layering. This means combining different sources, including lamps, pendants, and wall sconces, as well as task lighting to create a well-lit space. The ability to dim is another crucial element to creating ambient lighting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2908093f-4c56-49fb-bd81-89271cfd432d/Inspiration+from+Focus%3A25+on+design-stylsih+vignettes.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - Make it stand out STYLED VIGNETTES WITH DRIED FLOWERS Within the showrooms, there were plenty of stylish vignettes to admire with home decor, soft furnishings, books, and dried flowers on display. I took a photo of the vignette on the left at Romo where the dried flower arrangement complements the natural linen wallpaper, as well as the mixture of brown-toned soft furnishings. The image on the right that I photographed at the Frato showroom has a tiny stone vase with dried flowers styled on top of books and a deeper-toned larger vessel, which gives height and contrast to the vignette. Notice how the books are angled to add interest and create space for the vessels on top. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/69e4252c-719d-4989-bd5d-e97983d73e1f/Inspiration+from+Focus%3A25+on+design+London-Murals+and+wall+coverings.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - Make it stand out SPECTACULAR MURALS & BLOCK PRINTED WALL COVERINGS There are simply thousands of wall coverings at the Design Centre, but I always make a beeline for Belgian brand Arte, as their wallpaper designs are not only exceptionally striking, but many have a rich three-dimensional feel. As I have a passion for palm trees and live by the sea, I was particularly drawn to the mural shown here from their Decors Panoramiques collection. I would have chosen it for my own hallway if I hadn’t already installed my mural a few years back. With block printing enjoying a revival, I also popped by the Zuber showroom and was drawn to the wallpapers in beautifully styled displays, like the wallpaper with the bird and flower motif pictured here. I learned that Zuber is the oldest wallpaper factory still in operation and apparently the only one to have preserved traditional woodblock printing. Photo left: Courtesy of Arte. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f11a48fd-b803-401f-9652-a261a5b0131b/Inspiration+from+Focus%3A25+on+design-recycled+jumpers-upholtering.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - Make it stand out SUSTAINABLE FABRICS - FROM REFUSE TO RECYCLING WITH OLD CARDIGANS AND JUMPERS I found the demo at StudioTex fascinating. I learned that Luum not only recycles old cardigans and jumpers but transforms them into gorgeous, natural, sustainable fabric. Manjeet Upple from Teknion/Luum Textiles, pictured here, explained to me that an estimated 60 billion tons of garments are binned worldwide each year, so it makes sense to upcycle the waste into new fabric. She then demonstrated how she was preparing to reupholster an old chair that had been thrown out with Luum’s recycled fabric. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3f5148c6-4395-42e1-af9f-5daeb7b89719/Inspiration+from+Focus%3A25+on+design-stylish+bathrooms.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - Make it stand out STYLISH BATHROOMS WITH DARK METALLIC FINISHES I chose to photograph the bathroom on the left in the House of Rohl showroom because it brought all the stylish elements together in one display. Bathrooms are the ideal place for contemporary metallics, with brass fixtures aged to look even darker than their antique predecessors, like the wall-mounted mixer tap from Perrin & Rowe above the Victoria + Albert white basin in the left image. I’m also a fan of wallpaper in bathrooms as they are a great place to introduce pattern and colour. For a final touch, the vase of flowers with the porcelain vase complements the white basin. In the image on the right, luxury bathroom brand THG Paris showcased stunning bronze-brown taps perfectly aligned with the trend towards warmer, darker tones. The stylish console illustrates how you can bring curves into cabinetry and, with its fluted sides, it’s sculptural and on-trend. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d50a228f-2467-4c86-94fa-dec4c5e7b45d/Inspiration+from+Focus%3A25+on+design-cushions.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - Make it stand out EMBOSSED, EMBELLISHED AND EMBROIDERED Cushions are my number one styling accessory, and after buying two with a rich terracotta trim, I realised how this small embellishment can transform not only the cushion but the whole room. To my delight, the design centre was brimming with gorgeous options, like the group I photographed in the Colefax and Fowler showroom pictured left, where many were beautifully embroidered, embellished with trims, or embossed, with the motifs sitting proud of the fabric. It’s an easy way to make cushions feel bespoke and luxurious. On the right, the Turnell & Gigon showroom had playful designs that had been appliquéd onto the cushions and echo the animal theme that is popular this season. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0889f1e7-7d9c-4344-95b9-71ef53eb474f/Focus%3A25+on+design-workshop-Sophie.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - Make it stand out CREATIVE COLLAGE WORKSHOP Sophie and I joined THG Paris and Cole & Son for a creative collage workshop, which helped us explore pattern and become more confident in layering one on top of the other. While I photographed the gorgeous bathrooms, Sophie carefully cut out different pieces of wallpaper to create this animal-themed collage for her daughter Mila’s bedroom. You can try this out at home if you have leftover wallpaper or samples by simply sticking them on with glue. Even if you don’t want to frame the final piece, it’s a great exercise in mixing the unexpected and becoming more confident in combining prints. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/eeb2843c-c9f7-45c7-ac34-29400d2272f9/Inspiration+from+Focus%3A25+on+design-lampshadetrimmings.jpg BLOG - KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM FOCUS/25 ON DESIGN LONDON - Make it stand out TRIMMINGS TO LAMPSHADES DEMO AT HOULÈS Having seen a vast array of exquisite trimmings in the showrooms on everything from cushions to sofas, I have become obsessed with trimmings. I had always wanted to learn how to transform a basic lampshade into something a bit more special, so we headed to the Houlès showroom for a demonstration. Firstly, we learned about trimmings and the fact that they actually originate from military outfits. The talk was followed by an interactive presentation from bespoke lighting experts, A Shade Above, where they showed us various ways to use trimmings to decorate lampshades. Having been given a key tip, which is to attach your trim right to the bottom of the shade so it stays smooth and doesn’t gather or pucker up, I am looking forward to embellishing a few of my own lampshades. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/interior-styling-decor-elements monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cf0136c7-45d6-40a2-b6c6-7e63c0d43c50/Sandra+van+Aalst-theInterior+Syle+Host.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Welcome to the BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra. If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer, stylist, and photographer for leading magazines around the globe, as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help you style your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/934e80c4-1869-4943-afc6-0a01d029e180/Dining+room+shelves-sandra+van+aalst-interior+style+host.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - THE KEY STYLISH ELEMENTS THAT WILL ELEVATE YOUR HOME Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1e6f7786-a77f-49f3-a383-60caf3509f9a/Interior+styling+key+elements+-+vignette+-+wall+and+cabinet+paint+Benjamin+Moore+.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - VIGNETTES & STYLED SURFACES You can arrange a vignette on any surface, such as a coffee table, sideboard, kitchen island, windowsill, shelving, mantel, or a kitchen worktop, like in the image here. Photo: Benjamin Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6a991fa1-142a-468e-8f79-225395b088a6/Interior+styling+elements+-++vignette+on+table.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst Charlie Luxton’s sustainable new build featured in The Times property section. On the dining room table or kitchen island, I think a vase of flowers or foliage always works well, coupled with items such as dishes of fruit, like in the image above. You may want to choose objects that complement the room in both style and colour, like in the dining room pictured here which I styled for a shoot, where the different green tones of the limes and herbs complement the colour of the table runner and throw. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ab5cecac-eb0d-473e-a63a-219b0ba75a97/Interior+Styling+elements-Study+Vignette.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Oka You can bring art into your vignette, like the two framed pieces from Oka pictured here which, placed above a beautiful patterned vase with branches of berries, instantly create an eye-catching display. If you are creating your vignette on a console table like this one, you can also lean a frame against the wall, which is always good to do in the first instance to see if the group works together before you put a nail in the wall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/606b0483-2b01-4ad7-8b2c-8ab148f8a33e/Stylish+Interior+elements-vignettes.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst Another ideal surface for a vignette is a coffee table. You could display hardback books, candles, and flowers, or use a tray like on the table pictured here where flowers and candle holders have been grouped together. Trays are great for creating a vignette on many surfaces, and on a coffee table you can also use them to tidy away and slightly conceal practical items like coasters and television remote controls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d365fe22-0771-4f0d-9e79-cc24d0b1dd42/books+on+a+shelf+at+Wow+House+copy.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst at WOW!House at the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour A considered grouping of home decor items teamed with books is perfect for shelves. If you want to add height to your vignette, you can place a small pile of hardback books and perch a decorative item on top, as shown on the shelves in the image of one of the WOW!HOUSE rooms pictured here. The books have been styled next to a gorgeous vessel with flowers to turn this part of the shelf into a polished vignette. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/90af6244-d69a-4309-bfd3-6c360a061e01/Interior+key+styling+elements+-+the+Interior+Style+host+-+shelves.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - CURATED SHELVES Shelves are probably the best way to effortlessly add stylish touches to a room. They can easily be attached to a wall or be freestanding as a room divider, like the bespoke shelves pictured here. Photo: Sandra van Aalst - Charlie Luxton’s sustainable new-build home featured in The Times https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c0ddab56-2457-4e69-a7b4-6fe2c37e21c2/Stylish+interior+elements-the+interior+style+host-shelving.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst I have always been a fan of floating shelves and was keen to have a wall of shelving in my dining room. I was about to order straight shelves when I saw curved floating shelves in the London Soho Home store, just in the nick of time, and ordered mine curved, too. The best thing about floating shelves is that there are no brackets to distract from your display. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/98dbbd50-5d48-402e-bc2e-aaba76c88216/Stylish+interior+elements-shelves-The+White+Company.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: The White Company These off-white recessed shelves are ideal if you have an alcove or are able to build them into the design of your room, as they really stand out as an architectural feature. I like the simplicity of these shelves and also the way that the bottom shelf is boxed in. The shelves pictured here are displayed with gorgeous items from The White Company, including a portable lamp, vases, vessels, and a candle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8a795fe8-1538-4459-bad1-107fd2cae7e4/Stylish+shelves-theInteriorStyle+Host-shelving+unit.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst There are shelving units that you can buy off the peg - even rather fancy ones. These unusual shelves by Roche Bobois have vertical slats that divide the home decor objects in an interesting way, allowing each one to have its own mini display box. Here, the shelves have been styled with a simple mix of black and white pieces, a framed photo, plants, books, and a few personal touches to give it an individual look. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/255ff142-3a64-44a0-9e1e-9e3c1ceb17d5/Coast+magazine+kitchen+shelves.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst I prefer shelves in the kitchen instead of high-level cabinets, as there are so many attractive items you can have on display, such as the cute glass cookie jars and mini copper pans pictured here. And with their ornate wrought iron brackets and weathered wood, these vintage shelves are quite special. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e2fcb97c-9943-4c72-8dd1-63644c26f1dd/Key+Styling+Elements+the+Interior+Style+Host+contempoary+litchen+with+copper+pendant+lights+copy.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - METALLIC FINISHES Whether it’s a brass floor lamp in a heritage interior, or vintage copper, like the pendant lights in this contemporary home, no matter how small, metallic finishes bring a touch of opulence to a room. Photo: Sandra van Aalst for Modern Rustic magazine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5b603e11-1777-458c-9b2c-d40af53c3554/Stylish+elements-the+Interior+Style+Host-metallic.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: James McDonald courtesy of Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour This was one of my favourite rooms at WOW!House, as it is rich with texture and colour and so atmospheric. The tactile interior is enhanced further by a couple of metallic pieces with the sculptural side table and candlesticks on the coffee table. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4abd1c0e-acfb-411e-ab4b-1ada75f71170/Stylish+elements+to+elevate+your+home+-+metalics+-+Wall+Art++Brass+Frame%2C+8067929.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: My furniture The artwork, side table, and chair by My Furniture in the image pictured here all have metallic details, with the artwork having lashings of gold leaf. The chair, table, lamp, and artwork look fabulous together but would also work as standalone items. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/91ae01c1-4016-40b9-9064-bd5e093b5078/Stylish+interior+elements-metalic-Aitkin%26Thyme+side+tables.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Atkin and Thyme These nesting tables are a good example of how you can add sheen and would work in a contemporary or heritage interior. The pair from Atkin and Thyme have a black powder-coated base and removable trays. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d2f6f426-171a-4b4e-8468-5a16de4045d3/Interior+elements+-+metalic+-+the+interior+Style+Host+blue+bedroom+with+brass+wall+sconce.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst The metallic in this interior manifests itself as a brass mid-century modern light above a bed. This was in a bedroom I photographed and shows how a subtle amount of sheen really brings sophistication to any colour scheme. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3ed76cae-96d8-450c-ab13-decbe736f4f7/Styllish+interior+inspiration-the+interior+style+host-foliage.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - STYLING WITH FOLIAGE & PLANTS Bring the outside in with houseplants or simply a branch from a tree or shrub. Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/68ba9e0e-acc0-493b-8f06-32c57a9ec949/Styling+elements+the+Interior+Style+Host+-+greenery.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst This Crittall conservatory on a houseboat wouldn’t be complete without all the hanging plants and a large statement plant. Most plants thrive in light-filled conditions like this, but some prefer indirect light. Look out for my forthcoming article on the best plants for different environments. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1c8185d1-e62b-49aa-95a5-1b9b8f4258b9/Stylish+elements-plant+pots-cox--cox-rattan-planters.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo:Cox and Cox The pot you display your plant in makes a huge difference to the overall look of a room. Having recently revamped my living room, I found that the straight planter looked out of place, so I’m looking for something more rounded, like the curved rattan planters by Cox and Cox pictured here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/33b726ae-326b-4065-a143-2c47e953e1b0/Home-decor-items+-+vessel-+with-green-plant.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst at The Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour This plant, in this gorgeous contemporary ribbed vessel, looks stunning as a standalone piece on a console, but could also be placed on a sideboard or mantel. This type of large vessel with a plant often looks impressive alone rather than styled in a vignette with other items. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ad280b66-4850-463a-bddc-c259d83d01b9/Kitchen+shelf+Styling-the+InteriorStylehost-eclectic0175783.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst These are a few different species I displayed on the floating kitchen shelves in my previous house. I have coriander in the dish on the worktop, two trailing plants, and succulents, all in either white pots or grey concrete vessels to create unity. I’ve then woven in artefacts, like the little cow statue, concrete apples, and for something fun, a vintage ‘Danger Men Cooking’ sign. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/9f499249-301b-4e19-840b-c9ceefaf70fd/Styling+elements+-+statement+pieces+-+Arteriors+Winona+Chandelie.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - STATEMENT PIECES Adding a statement piece to your home will definitely give it the ‘wow’ factor. Photo: Arteriors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/26533574-88c5-4696-aae4-6912889390cb/Stylish+interior+elements-interior-style-host-statement+chair.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst Chairs are not only accent pieces, they can also make a statement. When I first bought this curved, contemporary armchair from Soho Home, it was the statement piece in my living room. I’ve since moved it into the dining room, and now it only has to compete with the dining table chairs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2a106e0f-ce26-4057-8576-aea795e57d3a/Interior+Styling+Elements+-+Statement+pieces+-+Papier+Marche+wall+art+.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst I photographed this impressive 3D framed sculpture of Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio in the entryway of a beach villa in Brazil. It really stopped you in your tracks when you walked in the door. The console table is paired back with simple styling in similar tones so as not to distract from the artwork. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/fc2ed1bc-1bb1-494f-a1af-d9aba499897e/Stylish+elements-+mirrors+by+Caffe+Latte.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo:Caffe Latte Together with artwork and pendant lights, mirrors can also be statement pieces, and having more than one certainly does the trick. Pictured here is a set composed of different sizes with forms resembling coffee beans by Caffe Latte. I also placed three mirrors together in my kitchen to create a statement mirrored wall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b36692d6-da18-4d24-a606-355b3c6375d0/Stylish+elements-+the+interior+style+host-feature+wall.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst This image of my own stairwell has both a feature light together with a mural on the wall, which makes a statement, being seven metres high. Although feature walls have been frowned upon, they can work in a space like this, especially as it’s not just a repeat pattern. I tied in the natural tone of the seagulls with a seagrass stair runner, and the rattan pendant to give a cohesive feel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/18c51536-6159-4164-ad76-2802e93a6d76/Stylish+Interior+elements-Pooky+wonky+wavy.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - STYLISH LIGHTING Whether it’s a table lamp, floor lamp, hanging pendant, or wall sconce, light fixtures add style to any space. Photo: Pooky lighting https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/91dcfb71-39a0-4c8e-be37-062b816a8d28/Stylish+interior+elements-lamps.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst This is a portable lamp I bought from Abigail Ahern and is ideal for lighting up my shelves. I have one at either end on different levels. As I didn’t want any cables disrupting the flow of the shelves, it was not possible to use a regular lamp requiring electricity. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/080a8601-cbdb-43d6-9ea4-f846288e97de/Interior+Styling+elements+-lighting-KES+Lighting+%26+Home.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: KES Lighting & Home This image demonstrates that even in a living space, pendants don’t need to be hung in the centre of a room. This curvy, delicate, hand-blown glass pendant by Kes Lighting & Home turns a chair in a corner into a stylish nook. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/16e0d792-baef-4868-8229-1674853e46d6/Interior+styling+elements-lighting.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst These gorgeous glass pendant lights look super stylish hanging next to the bed. Wall lights and table lamps also work well, like the retro Anglepoise black lamp pictured here, which looks great on a surface in any room in the home and acts as a good reading light by a bed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f2704788-e2d1-4d4f-8c28-833bb7b51f80/Stylish+Interior+elements-lighting-pooky-hercule-lamp.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo:Pooky Table and floor lamps are a great way to bring pattern, colour and texture into a room. Although not a floor lamp, this gorgeous lamp by Pooky, with its Ikat print in berry-coloured tones, placed on a table adds height so it stands proud and is a key feature in the room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a3cc6b0f-6640-458d-9f35-b525edc6a2eb/Styling+elements+-+the+Interior+Style+host+-+vintage+items+in+lounge.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - VINTAGE, RETRO & PRE-LOVED PIECES Vintage, retro, and pre-loved pieces can add character to any interior. Photo: Sandra van Aalst interior by Helena Impett Interior Design. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/692ca3f8-d207-4c2e-9d3e-5eaac640e0c1/Styling+elements+the+Interior+Style+Host+-+vintage+chopping+boards.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst featured in Coast and Ariadne at Home. This vignette, which I styled with interior stylist and homeowner, Clare Southcombe-Homes, shows that vintage pieces can also look great in the kitchen, especially vintage chopping boards, which always add style. You can also probably spot other vintage items, including the aged terracotta pot, the metal tray, and wooden Bovril box, which makes an interesting container for jars and herbs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c93eacc5-aace-4c00-ade7-6c12eaab436a/Bedroom+with+vintage+table+and+chandelier1.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst This pretty bedroom has several items that are vintage and antique, including the chair, side table, frame, and an antique chandelier, all of which look striking set against the yellow backdrop, painted wooden floors, and beamed ceiling. Vintage items are roughly considered 20 years or older, while a true antique is a century old! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/dc18bb96-1e59-4d79-bce6-a19239eac101/Stylish+interior+elements-vintage.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst featured in Coast and Ariadne at Home. An intricate antique French mirror and chest with mini drawers were both found by interior stylist Clare in her local vintage shop. Both pieces really make this living room unique, and the chest is an ideal surface for Clare’s styling skills, where she displays vintage and handmade items. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/66748d70-afcb-4d83-992d-bda0a5de279a/Styling+elements+-+vintage+-+the+Interior+Style+Host.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst featured in 25 Beautiful Homes The chair in the living room of this converted barn was pre-loved and has been reupholstered by the owners in a stripy, blue-toned fabric. The chair contrasts perfectly with the contemporary polished concrete floor. There is also another interesting vintage piece, which was originally a medicine cabinet and now displays glassware. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4d7c0f4c-2c40-4a77-92ae-0956274ca4ab/Interior+elements+-++Natural+materials+bed+by+Naturalmat.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - ORGANIC MATERIALS Bring something natural into every room for a modern, sustainable interior. Photo: Naturalmat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/fe8639a1-40a9-441f-83ec-bc606b80d36b/Interior+Styling+elements+-+Bed+and+bedside+table+by+Garden+Trading.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Garden Trading This gorgeous bedroom has plenty of natural materials with pure linen bed linen, pillowcases, and a throw, as well as a wooden bed frame and table beside the bed from Garden Trading. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/aac66ed5-e6d8-4def-ac6b-d45d2b2939ce/Styling+elements+wooden+bench.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst for Inside Out magazine and Wonen Landerlijke Stijl This was the guest bedroom in my last house where I added a rustic wooden bench on the limestone floor to bring in natural materials. Although I styled the room for a shoot, the bench also proved useful to display books in the bedroom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c46d6c60-ada0-4730-9e5c-d08fe50a5b3d/Interior+Styling+elements-natural-+Oak+Reeded+Wall+Panel.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo:Naturewall If you want to bring natural materials into the interior decoration, a fluted headboard or wall is a great way to introduce nature, like the Natural Oak Reeded wall panels by Naturewall featured here. I have something similar in bamboo, which brings an organic and coastal feel to my bedroom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8e6a9ef5-3f85-4042-bda9-44b95c2f2109/Stylish+elements-natural+materials.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst Even in a kitchen with a contemporary countertop, you can add items like wooden vessels, rattan pots and chopping boards to soften the hard surface and bring nature into the space, like this circular vintage chopping board pictured which we used to create a vignette for a shoot. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d107b889-46c4-4306-86fa-41b01cb4c00d/Stylish+elements+the+Interior+Style+host-collections+on+a+fireplace.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - CURATED COLLECTIONS & DISPLAYS A curated collection of items in a theme, such as the white vessels pictured on this ornate mantel, really make an impact. Displayed on a surface such as a shelf, table, or mantel, a collection is a great way to turn everyday objects into an intentional feature. Photo: Sandra van Aalst featured in 25 Beautiful Homes and Wohnen magazine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d276c9ff-5e61-40b8-8b88-0b0068093674/Styling+elements+the+Interior+Style+Host+-+collections.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst This ceramic jars were collected by rug designer Eric Lindstrom and displayed on a contemporary hearth in the summer when the fire was not in use. Eric has also thrown in a tall ceramic vase with fresh flowers to bring height and extra interest to the display. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/17c60f94-a930-40b2-86d5-58952e891a3d/Stylish+elements+-+collections+-+the+interior+style+host+copy.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst This unique collection belongs to artist Armi Maddison and I photographed it while we were shooting the house for Modern Rustic magazine. Look carefully and you’ll notice a wonderful eclectic mix of artefacts, including vintage spoons, tiny white pebbles and miniature animals, as well as letter stamps for printing and vintage glass bottles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/24475b86-2ae4-4d2c-ae23-2a44b09b69e6/Stylish+elements-collections.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst This is my own collection of white vessels that I styled for a shoot with a mixture of branches and flowers. What works with this collection is firstly, the varying heights and shapes, and secondly the different textures on the pots - from shiny to patterned and plain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/eeadcd95-25fa-473f-b3e0-42534db83170/Interior+Styling+elements-collections.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst Whilst photographing a house in LA, I came across this unusual collection of coloured glass faces. Displayed in a Child’s bedroom next to soft toys and storybooks, they gave the shelving a playful and unique feature. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6ffb5650-a4d1-4a08-a30a-d3f65360d614/Stylish+interior+elements-art-caffe-latte.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - WALL DECOR Wall art, whether a traditional painting or wall decor, art tells a story, adding character and your personal stamp to your home. Photo: Caffe Latte https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/94e3209c-b9e2-43a0-9354-c402e591cd4b/Stylish+Interior+elements+-desenio.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo:Desenio With five different framed prints from Desenio, the interior pictured here is a good example of a gallery wall, with the largest print central, then smaller, different-sized frames surrounding it. Notice how the frame and artwork are all in neutral tones and pair with the wall and furniture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/40fd1288-17df-45c4-8de2-8bae64d7ab21/Interior+styling+elements-wall+decor.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst for Homes & Gardens magazine Plates have been used to decorate walls for years, and I created my own take on it in the utility room in my last house. As it was also an entrance, I wanted an impactful display, so I opted for a mixture of vintage Delfts Blauw and modern plates, including two with graphics, and the others with illustrations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/bf0540b1-07c9-486b-8d96-5ce103d24d70/Stylish+interior+elements-trowbridge-gallery.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Trowbridge Gallery London Art works beautifully above a bed. I always find this wall space often feels like a void and needs something on display. In this image, a unique, handmade collection of leaves by Trowbridge Gallery looks stunning against the forest green wall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/581dd9c2-0da6-42ab-b29f-91b6ad7a8deb/Wall+decor+ideas-Palm+Leaf+Wall+Hanging.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Heavenly Homes and Gardens This example of wall decor is to show you that it’s not only frames and canvases that can successfully decorate a wall. Wall decor is where you can get creative! You can use all sorts of items, like these woven dishes and woven wall hanging from Heavenly Homes, made from natural palm leaves with a bamboo stick and jute string for that totally natural look. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ac5e05e9-2a43-43e3-bf2f-64723523c1e6/Interior+key+elements+-+curves+-+a+curved+sofa+in+Brick+Boucle+by+Daals.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - CURVES AND ORGANIC SHAPES Curves and organic shapes are on-trend and will continue to reign. Photo: daals https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3f69a41b-1b0c-4446-902f-fbb170cc820b/Dried+flowers-the+InteriorStyleHost-grasses-.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst at the Design Centre Chelsea Harbour A stunning, curvy vase like this one can really bring curves into your interior in an understated yet utterly modern way. Other home decor pieces you can find these days with curves includes lamps, pendant lights, and candles. You can also look out for curvy sculptures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/72010ac0-290d-47c8-96e8-ae74c0903f4e/IMG_5343+copy.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst I chose a sofa that was straight on one end and curved on the other, designed to be interchangeable. However, when it situ, I soon realised it only worked one way which, luckily, turned out to be ideal, as the curved section allows you to look out at the view. Overall, I’m very happy with my curved piece. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/50ba6c6d-39f7-4396-ba55-649e295d4e6b/Stylish+interior+elements-organic-mirror-origins.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Origins Living I love the asymmetrical shape of this mirror, which is an attractive piece inspired by the fluidity of water, with curved rather than straight edges. And the great thing about a mirror like this one by Origins Living is that it can be hung in any direction and always looks great. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1ecfbd3e-7fe2-4793-83ce-8e77f8e6f20a/Stylish+Interior+elements-organic+shapes-Arteriors.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Arteriors You have more options to bring curved furniture into your home than just sofas and chairs, as designers are also rounding the corners of tables and creating wavy or curvy silhouettes that are more fluid, like these rather special outdoor coffee tables by Arteriors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4e0e2d92-193d-47e8-ad92-ae9b1df07dc8/Key+styling+elements+with+contrast+the+Interior+Style+host+living+room+with+black+steel+doors.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - ADD CONTRAST It could be the door or window, a framed piece of artwork, or even a black curtain pole, which adds contrast and depth to a room. Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cac2b0a8-7d25-42cb-9883-d9d758d74c0c/Styish+elements+-+contrast+in+the+figure+of+eight+by+Beach+House+Art.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Beach House Art The interior pictured here illustrates two things for me. The first is that you can bring in something dark simply through the artwork, like the figure-of-eight knot dark blue print by Beach House Art pictured here. The second is that this interior has a black wood-burning stove, which needed to be tied in with other elements, and the artwork successfully achieves this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0a2eed0e-51f3-40bf-9663-ae1a501c72a9/Stylish+interior+elements-the+Interiorstylehost-contrast.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst This is the striking living room of a converted water tower I photographed. The homeowner, who is an artist, has created dynamic contrast to the original exposed brick wall, structurally through the dark window frames, but also with carefully chosen darker details, such as a dark grey radiator, sleek console table, and black iron sculpture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2fb361dd-d9ee-4323-a604-ec0ba90dcd3c/Stylish+interior+elements+Limestone+floor+Artisans+of+Devizes.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Artisans of Devizes The dark doors and windowsill in the image here contrast with the gorgeous chevron-tiled floor by Artisan of Devizes, showcasing the floor as the standout feature. To create a more cohesive feel, the dark doors are paired with a geometric cushion and a dark-framed sofa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5e7bccbe-6320-49c2-b0ac-cbf23d556d36/Stylish+interior+elements+-+contrast+-+Armchair+with+Dark+Wood+Legs+by+La+Redoute.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: La Redoute You don’t have to only use black to bring in something dark. The darker shades of greys, greens, and blues also contrast well with lighter hues, like this chair from La Redoute, which is a rich, dark green velvet but adds real contrast to the pale-toned room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2bef5e6c-6953-4ec0-8fe1-9d18a8d9665a/Key+interior+elements+using+pattern+and+print+dining+chairs+with+orange%2C+grey+and+white+print+by+the+Stylish+Club.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - PATTERNS AND PRINTS Patterns and prints can make an interior more three-dimensional, adding another layer of texture to the overall scheme. In this image, the striking, patterned chairs from the Stylish Club really add interest to this contemporary-style interior. Photo: Stylish Club https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d4fee4f2-9c7e-4be1-ad77-872170ee782f/Stylish+interior+elements-pattern-Iliv.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: ILIV This bedroom, with a papaya colourway weaving through the soft furnishings, is the perfect example of how you can mix different prints on various soft furnishings, yet it can result in an elegant and stylish look. The headboard, foot stall, cushions and curtains are all from the Orissa collection by ILIV. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7e4dd07d-9d7e-4b86-b6ed-2d8751c4fdb0/Stylish+Interior+Elements-french-bedroomhandblocked.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: French Bedroom Block print has become popular in recent years, and this hand block Pushpa Flowers cushion and Bloom Bedspread lend themselves to artisanal charm. The palette is anchored with similar tones. The imperfections of hand block printing add character to this traditional form of print. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/68c66545-d9fa-4b1a-8a79-a4cc5bec3cf4/Styling+elements+-+the+Interior+Style+Host+-+pattern.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst Rugs are an ideal way to add pattern to an otherwise plain interior. The zig zag rug pictured here is a statement in its own right and contrasts perfectly with the velvet sofa. Notice that the sofa cushions are kept plain so as not to compete with the rug, with just a throw bringing in a different pattern. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/13390bc5-8b94-45a8-9ca7-07b0b40a3a8c/Interior+styling+elements+-+pattern+-+fabrics+and+wall+paper+on+the+Kit+Kemp+stand+at+Design+week.jpg BLOG - STYLISH INTERIOR ELEMENTS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME from curves and metallic finishes, to lighting and foliage - Make it stand out Photo: Sandra van Aalst on Kit Kemp’s stand at The Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour. www.kitkemp.com Patterns and prints can work together, like the wallpaper and lamp pictured here. Both the base and the shade work well displayed against the wallpaper as they are all in tones of green and blue. Mix pattern scales like in the image here. You can also pair the floral with a fine stripe or geometric designs. https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/stylish-bedroom-ideas monthly 0.5 2026-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cf0136c7-45d6-40a2-b6c6-7e63c0d43c50/Sandra+van+Aalst-theInterior+Syle+Host.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - Welcome to the INTERIOR STYLE HOST BLOG Hi, I’m Sandra, If you're in awe of stunning interiors and crazy about home decor, you’re in the right place. As an interior writer with a background in styling and photography for leading magazines around the globe, as well as an avid home renovator, I am here to help all you interior enthusiasts to style your home with ease and confidence, like a pro. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/fb18f7b0-4917-469d-86de-6c3ab0d732bd/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+the+Interior+Style+Host+Bucklebury+Double+Bed+in+Tweed+Canvas+by+Darlings+of+Chelsea.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - STYLISH BEDROOM IDEAS Here are over a dozen stunning yet very different bedrooms. Photo credit Garden Trading https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/dd089714-9ff8-4287-a8c3-18e2d4de8073/Stylish+Bedroom+ideas+-+Velvet+Chic+the+Interior+Style+Host+blog+bed+by+Naturalmat+-+The+Halstock+Bed.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - FASHIONABLE FRAMES A velvet frame or headboard adds a sophisticated touch to any bedroom. Photo: Naturalmat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0de3d4e2-5f06-4f7f-a768-4e08af649095/Stylish+bedroom+ideas-interior+style+host-lighting.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - STYLISH BEDROOM LIGHTING Lighting is the unsung hero of a well-designed bedroom, bringing style as well as function to the room. Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8201c32f-a5dc-48bc-aa5a-6c4b458b14f8/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+-+the+Interior+Style+Host.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - CUSHIONS AND PILLOWS TO DRESS YOUR BED Cushions, aka throw pillows, are the key soft furnishing items that make a bedroom stylish and can dress up even the plainest bed. Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d3547969-c657-4ab0-a2f6-d4b915a46ffd/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+the+Interior+Style+Host+bed+llinen+by+The+Secret+Linen+Store+Sophie+Stripe.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - NATURAL BEAUTY In this image, the rustic wooden headboard is the perfect backdrop for the bed that has been dressed stylishly with natural linens, combined with earthy-toned throws and cushions. Photo: The Secret Linen Store https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b79c457b-5ea1-4ccc-9937-f66e5092ee06/Stylish+bedrooms+Wow+House++bedroom+by++James+McDonald.+JPG.JPG BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - HEAVENLY MATCH Print pairing is on trend. Get it right and it’s breathtaking. Photo: James McDonald (Casa Branca bedroom at WOW!House at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4b137c14-1369-4a3f-8378-603904db0baa/Stylish+bedroom+idea.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - DRAMATIC ELEGANCE WITH COLOUR Walls painted in dark colours look striking paired with light-toned bed linen. Photo: Sandra van Aalst featured in Elle Decoration Country https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ffaa8606-9d1e-4905-9b74-0db00ba91bc3/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+the+Interior+Style+Host+Indulgent+bedrooms+-+bedroom+with+bath.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - BATHING INDULGENCE There’s nothing quite as decadent as a bath within a bedroom. Photo: Sandra van Aalst for Inside Out magazine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/dea63372-27ee-4d21-8543-fb7cd13d153a/Stylish+Bedroom+ideas+Button++Sprung%2C+Rose+King+Size+Bed+Frame.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - UPHOLSTERED HEADBOARDS Opt for a French-style upholstered bed for elegance and visual interest. Photo: Button & Sprung https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d5b56101-470b-4674-b5c7-9fe171d8f834/Stylish+bedroom+ideas-gallery+wall-Desenio.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - CREATIVE WALL ART Artwork or decor on the walls of a bedroom can really complete the look. Photo: Desenio https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f19d207c-885a-46e2-9401-689962a48ea4/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+-+Emerald+bedroom.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - TONE-ON-TONE For an impressive look, include different shades and tones of one particular colour in your bedroom interior scheme. Photo: Sandra van Aalst - Lisa Butcher’s bedroom featured in City Life magazine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d0551bff-0ad0-4528-8bf1-451f744674e6/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+the+Interior+Style+Host+-+luxe+accent+chair+by+Caffe+Latte%2C+Demitasse+armchair.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - SUBLIME SOPHISTICATION Simplicity speaks in this elegant bedroom, decorated in neutral tones with a curved accent chair, giving it a contemporary look. Photo: Caffe Latte https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8d408f01-a788-4149-acfc-c09491896369/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+-+nightstands%3Abeside+tables+-+the+Interior+Style+Host.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - TABLES OF INTEREST Unusual bedside tables, aka nightstands, can add style and personality to your bedroom. Photo: Sandra van Aalst featured in Coast and Ariadne at Home magazine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/76ed1d5a-fba4-4ee8-8b38-0187f40ec71d/Stylish+bedrooms+striped+bedlinen+by+The+White+Company+Bedroom+Collection.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - SMART STRIPES Give your bedroom a fresh new look with simple striped bed linen. Photo: The White Company https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/05288dff-24cb-4796-9598-62ca3f848002/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+the+Interior+Style+Host+custom+made+silver+birch+bed.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - HAND-CRAFTED CREATION If you are a dab hand at DIY, a custom-made bed like this one at Warborne Farm is truly unique. Photo: Sandra van Aalst for Seasons Wonen, 25 Beautiful Homes and Modern Farmhouse magazine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1ac09111-22bb-4d20-a82b-eec3ebd22e47/Stylish+Bedroom+ideas-French+Bedroom-+Bed+Linen+Set.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - COASTAL VIBE Coastal materials such as rattan, bamboo and jute have become stylish staples in many interior schemes. Photo: French Bedroom https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d6939521-cbd9-49c6-838d-30d88ca2d3c9/Stylish+bedroom+ideas-+throws.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - LAYERING WITH THROWS Dress your bed with a throw or two for that layered look. Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7270db80-4835-4c6c-af1a-f20846e2d4b2/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+headboards+-+the+interior+style+host.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - QUIRKY HEADBOARDS Be creative and use your own bespoke headboard, like the French reclaimed shutters featured here. Photo: Sandra van Aalst featured in Coast and Ariadne at Home magazine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/17be12fe-3d82-4160-b410-1970aad6c803/Stylish+Bedroom+ideas-curtians-Prestigious+Textiles.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - DRESSING THE WINDOWS Whether blinds, blackout curtains, or sheers, dressing the window is an important element in a bedroom to block out light, add softness, and improve the acoustics. Photo: Prestigious Textiles https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b8d2e4c9-88a5-4d17-9bb8-f88a893640c3/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+-+Opulant+gold+bedroom+by+Covet+House.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - EXQUISITE OPULENCE If you are keen on maximalist style, an opulent bedroom with gold accents could be for you. Photo: Covet House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ab088890-585a-4ebb-a86e-df7fd0c4fc8d/Stylish+Bedroom+ideas+-+Silk+Bed+Linen+Soak+and+Sleep.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - PURE SILK There is nothing more luxurious than pure silk bed linen and it has beauty benefits, too. Photo: Soak and Sleep https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0b997e85-a082-415c-9e1f-9cd0670f8cf9/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+the+Interior+Style+Host+bedroom+wallpaper+by+MINDTHEGAP+Wallpaper+LA+DOLCE+VITA+CARAMELLA+Orangina+Wallpaper+Lifestyle+Portrait.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - DYNAMIC PRINTS AND PATTERNS Evocative wall coverings can dramatically transform a bedroom. Photo: MINDTHEGAP https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e36ee552-0249-4fed-8de8-5963e94d47bc/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+the+Interior+Style+Host+crumpled+linen.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - WASHED CRUMPLED LINEN French-style washed linen, also known as creased or crumpled linen, has become a styling staple and is now widely available and ideal to launder as you don’t need to iron it. Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a4712b0b-6853-4863-8ba4-e68b15ff350b/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+the+Interior+Style+Host++bed+by+Annie+Sloan+++Bed+Frame+Painted+In+Chalk+Paint+Motif+Made+With+Detail+Brushes.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - PAINTED HEADBOARDS Colour can be subtle or bold, but it is one of the most transformative tools you can use to add interest to the wall behind your bed or by adding colour in a more subtle way to your headboard. Photo: Annie Sloan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2e660db3-6086-4063-9a1e-27785a95e2c6/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+the+Interior+Style+Host+-+creative+color+yellow+bedspread.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - BOLD COLOUR A vivid, bold colour can brighten up your bedroom and give you the feel-good factor every time you step into the room. Photo: Sandra van Aalst - Charlie Luxton’s sustainable new build https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/33a46e6a-5a1d-4bf1-8757-fcb8e8e813f0/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+the+Interior+Style+Host++-+Twin+beds.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - STYLISH TWIN BEDROOM When dressed well, twin beds can look as attractive as a double or king. Photo: Sandra van Aalst Photo: Sandra van Aalst for Seasons Woven, 25 Beautiful Homes and Modern Farmhouse magazine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/78dc2161-3454-4aab-9446-e98cac7b26d4/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+-+Button+%26+Sprung%2C+Lupin+King+Size+Bed.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - FRAMING THE BED WITH A WINDOW A bed placed against a window can create a focal point in the room. Photo: Button & Sprung https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/89957be7-daff-4cdd-b0d7-ecc258cf96d5/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+the+Interior+Style+Host++Christmas+bed+5046.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - HOLIDAY STYLING Transform your bedroom or guest room into a festive feast for the eye by adding a few seasonal touches. Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/16557b1b-2004-458b-bc6d-b4281fa0abf0/Stylish+Bedroom+ideas+-+Organic+materials+-+timber+clad+walls+with+White+Tectonic%C3%82%C2%AE+Oak+Bedroom+by+Chaunceys+Timber+Flooring+.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - SUSTAINABLE & STYLISH Add something organic to your bedroom scheme. This could be a wood table, linen cushion, or, as in the image, a timber-panelled wall. Photo: Chaunceys Timber Flooring https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c6dcc363-9ff9-4902-9dad-4b7c57fb3ddc/Stylish+bedroom+ideas+-+stylish+girls+bedroom.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - STYLISH GIRL’S BEDROOM Children’s bedrooms can be just as stylish as grown-ups’. Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8faa6d2b-ec88-4719-85c4-5f0fdfdb5595/Stylish+bedroom+inspo+boys+stylish+bedroom.jpg BLOG - STYLISH BEDROOMS IDEAS - to inspire your bedroom refresh - STYLISH BOY’S BEDROOM A boy’s bedroom doesn’t just have to feature cars, trains, or Disney-themed bed linen; you can make it more sophisticated but still fun. Photo: Sandra van Aalst https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/INTERIOR+STYLING+AND+DECORATION+BEFORE+AND+AFTER monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/SEASONAL+STYLING monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/STYLING+TIPS+AND+ADVICE monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/DESIGN monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/INTERIOR+SPOTLIGHT monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/STYLISH+HOME+TOURS monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/FESTIVE+STYLING monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/INTERIOR+DESIGN+INSPIRATION monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/INTERIORS monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/STYLING+WITH+FLOWERS+AND+FOLIAGE monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/INTERIOR+STYLING+ELEMENTS monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/INTERIOR+INSPIRATION monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/HOME+TOURS monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/INTERIOR+DESIGN+WORLD monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/INTERIOR+STYLING monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/STYLISH+INTERIOR+ROOMS monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/category/STYLING+ITEMS monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/blog/tag/INTERIOR+STYLING+INSPIRATION monthly 0.5 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/terms-of-service daily 0.75 2025-07-11 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/home-1 daily 1.0 2026-03-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/04d7019e-31e3-40c3-9901-490e03e23989/Sandra+van+Aalst-interiorStyleHost+copy.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e011c3d8-b7f7-497b-af98-7f181a024f9e/Untitled+%2860+x+15+cm%29-3.png https://www.interiorstylehost.com/privacy-policy daily 0.75 2025-07-11 https://www.interiorstylehost.com/contact daily 0.75 2025-09-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e90fe662-4016-4588-844b-252cfc58f267/Sandra+van+Aalst-Interior+Style+Host.jpg CONTACT https://www.interiorstylehost.com/about daily 0.75 2026-03-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f7ce8282-1a53-4d72-b266-d5b66dfa90ef/Modern+Rustic+Magazine+tear+sheet+Sandra+van+Aalst6.png ABOUT Magazine tear sheet from Modern Rustic Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. A modern kitchen with black wall, brick accent, gray island with four stools, pendant lights, and decorative items on the countertop. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d94c7478-8e43-4dbf-b05e-f9d34bec5f98/Modern+Rustic+Magazine+tear+sheet+Sandra+van+Aalst5.png ABOUT Magazine tear sheet from Modern Rustic Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. A Living room with a sectional sofa, a brick fireplace, and a window with wooden shutters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f590788a-f22d-46a5-8578-421e148b26bc/Modern+Rustic+Magazine+tear+sheet+Sandra+van+Aalst+1.png ABOUT Magazine tear sheet from Modern Rustic Magazine by Sandra van Aalst -modern industrial styled living room with a large rust-colored pendant light, gray sofa, white cabinets, and decorative elements, with a sign titled 'Urban Oasis' in the background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/95d7d5b9-f534-41ec-9a83-64e5d3a40f3d/Modern+Rustic+Magazine+tear+sheet+Sandra+van+Aalst3.png ABOUT Magazine tear sheet from Modern Rustic Magazine by Sandra van Aalst, a modern living room with a hanging wire egg-shaped chair with a white fur cushion, black shaggy rug, and minimalist decor, including a small fireplace and a vase of flowers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7fd434eb-61cc-4f5b-ad07-88b9e8925e2c/Modern+Rustic+Magazine+tear+sheet+Sandra+van+Aalst8.png ABOUT Magazine tear sheet from Modern Rustic Magazine by Sandra van Aalst, a white bed with gray bedding and decorative pillows against a wall with yellow paint at the head of the bed, featuring small framed art above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/78d573aa-808b-4a9c-bf0b-aadaae4204fb/Modern+Rustic+Magazine+tear+sheet+Sandra+van+Aalst2.png ABOUT Magazine tear sheet from Modern Rustic by Sandra van Aalst. A wooden table with potted plants, a glass lantern with a white candle, a small garden shears, and a tied flower stem. An vintage brown trunk is underneath the table. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/513ac0ce-ed1b-4e0a-aaea-88c21ff21202/Modern+Rustic+Magazine+tear+sheet+Sandra+van+Aalst7.png ABOUT Magazine tear sheet from Modern Rustic Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. A bathroom with a white sink, copper pipe faucet, wooden ladder-style shelves, and a wooden cabinet above the sink. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/61a15430-d930-4665-86d0-591a54ff431f/Sandra+van+Aalst+featured+in+House+Beautiful1.png ABOUT A magazine feature showing a coastal landscape with a sandy beach, trees, and blue sky. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/aeeabb00-339c-4620-b4f4-ed8d82096c3b/Sandra+van+Aalst+featured+in+House+Beautiful2.png ABOUT A magazine tear sheet of a dining room with wooden table, chairs, large window with greenery outside, brick wall, hanging light fixture, candleholders with lit candles, a glass vase with leafy green and white flowers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f21f6c65-f0e4-4deb-929d-dae977c10c46/Sandra+van+Aalst+featured+in+House+Beautiful7.png ABOUT A magazine tear sheet with an Interior shot of a living room with large windows, brown leather armchair with green pillow, white pendant lamp, and a view of an outdoor garden with trees and grass. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cbe5dfbd-eed6-40b1-ab69-aacaf325b044/Sandra+van+Aalst+featured+in+House+Beautiful4.png ABOUT A magazine tear sheet with an Interior shot of a living room with a turquoise sofa, armchair, wooden coffee table, large sliding glass doors showing outdoor greenery, and hanging linen pendant lights. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c15f8ca8-015a-47af-8277-10c61af2edd7/Sandra+van+Aalst+featured+in+House+Beautiful5.png ABOUT A magazine tear sheet with an Interior shot of a modern kitchen with a wooden island, two bar stools, a window with a view of trees, black wall lamps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/42944501-6761-4cb7-b38d-c44eedea146d/Sandra+van+Aalst+featured+in+House+Beautiful.png ABOUT A magazine tear sheet of interior views of a modern home showcasing a minimalist entryway with a small wooden desk, a framed artwork, and an outdoor patio scene; an abstract wall mural in a living space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4ac58e96-21e0-4c7a-9b58-19b25befa089/Sandra+van+Aalst+featured+in+House+Beautiful8.png ABOUT Interior view of a modern home entry with wooden door and glass windows showing a lush green garden outside; minimal decor with candles on a wooden table, coat hooks on the wall, and a quote about re-imagining a traditional style barn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6ec1882a-7252-4c91-a1a9-999fa7f67937/Sandra+van+Aalst+featured+in+House+Beautiful6.png ABOUT A magazine tear sheet with an Interior shot of a bright bedroom with large windows, plenty of natural light, white bedding, accent pillows, and green curtains, with a view of the outdoors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7523d0eb-2062-43b4-8535-27b5aace3708/Magazine+tearsheet+bedroom.png ABOUT Magazine tear sheet from Elle Decoration Country Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. Bedroom in damson colour with light coloured washed linen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/486f5323-740c-4891-b60e-e39ad38b981a/Magazine+tearsheet+bathroom.png ABOUT Magazine tear sheet from Elle Decoration Country Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. Bathroom with rolltop bath https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1b67ad65-2df6-4fe4-80f8-2fdcb150968f/Elle+Deco+Country+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT Magazine tear sheet from Elle Decoration Country Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. Living room with large window, sofa with throw pillows, black armchair, wooden coffee table, and black metal shelving with white dishware. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/adc68854-4bfd-48eb-9ae3-eb17ce4abe37/Magazine+tear+sheet+kitchen.png ABOUT Magazine tear sheet from Elle Decoration Country Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. Kitchen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/301751a4-84ee-43b2-8e05-3b7649ec2eed/Elle+Decoration+Country+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT Magazine tear sheet from Elle Decoration. A modern kitchen and dining area with a dark kitchen island, a dining table, and chairs with sheepskin covers. Pendant lights hang from the ceiling, and there is a window with sheer curtains. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d6a9830f-1451-4883-a76f-9edbd5c447a4/Magazine+tearsheet+Living+room.png ABOUT Magazine tear sheet from Elle Decoration Country Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. Living room with view to dining room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/93b5a2a6-b7fa-480b-8107-63a8e53151fe/Elle+Decoration+Country+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT Magazine tear sheet from Elle Decoration Country Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. A side view of a modern living room and kitchen area with large windows, a hanging lamp, a sofa, chairs, and a rug. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/59a3859a-23f1-4252-a9b0-81929a0bacb1/12Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT Collage of four interior photos of a rustic, cozy attic living space with wooden beams, kitchen, dining area, and seating area. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cbfbd368-cf96-48fb-b31b-2d6ab820a839/SW+Magazine+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT Living room with a brown leather Chesterfield sofa with striped cushions, a red wooden wall panel on the back, a black wood stove with a pipe, wood logs in baskets, and visible wooden ceiling beams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2cdb87d1-93e2-4a96-974a-b0d51ab75d57/Seasons+Wonen+photographed+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT A collage of three interior bedrooms, each with distinct decor, and a black-and-white photo of a farm house. The first bedroom has red walls, a pitched ceiling with exposed wood beams, a bed with a dog on it, and a lamp beside the bed. The second bedroom features a brick wall, a bed with striped pillows, and a small side table. The third bathroom has a vintage bathtub, framed pictures on white walls, and a sloped ceiling with wooden beams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/422e4dcf-6d38-4751-9e30-0bc794d03295/Seasons+wonen+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT Children's bedroom in The Grain Loft with twin beds made with horsehair-filled mattresses, fur throws, and a red accent wall, featuring exposed wooden beams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/acecf416-bc2a-4a12-9753-d739b745c184/10Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT A bedroom with a bed, nightstands with lamps, a red brick wall behind the bed, and an exposed wooden beam ceiling with a skylight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/22318994-9740-4457-9f88-f1d5aee5e35e/City+Life+magazine+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT A woman in a green dress sitting on a emerald green sofa in a living room with a photo gallery wall behind her and a green patterned rug on the floor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/27730d5a-8a1e-407f-abb4-a0fdca401cee/City+Life+magazine+Lisa+Butcher+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT A woman practicing yoga outdoors at a pond surrounded by trees, with a Buddha sculpture in the water; also includes a close-up of a sitting Buddha statue, and jewelry including a gold butterfly ring and a gold chain with circular links; a fashion photograph of three women. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4c4e56fd-7ad0-4bbb-8b91-57a984fddba6/Grand+Designs+Magazine+image+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT Modern dining room with a light wooden table, several chairs with metal frames and wooden seats, and small vases with flowers on the table. The walls are painted dark blue, and there is a large window with greenery outside. A colorful abstract painting hangs on the wall, and a wooden beam runs across the white ceiling. The image is from Grand Design Magazine, June 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c8a29d90-fe5e-4ace-a740-c168a2d4e2b5/Sandra+van+Aalst+shot+for+Grand+Designs.png ABOUT Living room with light gray sofa adorned with colorful pillows, large windows showing green outdoor landscape, and interior decor including a black horse sculpture and vibrant green wall, with a view of a modern house outside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a1ffd2ba-b092-4b54-a5cb-bfdaec20b026/Grand+Designs+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT Modern kitchen with stainless steel work surfaces, wooden cabinets, a green cucumber and herbs on a cutting board, a bowl of pears, and a large window showing a garden outside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7a83ba9f-40c7-4668-bb75-05b3566950a1/Ariadne+at+Home+shot+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT A woman in a cream sweater and green pants ties her shoelaces in front of a staircase in a white interior. There is a woven basket on the floor and a brown rug. The setting appears cozy and vintage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4413016a-17bb-4757-9dae-49eb69f4a977/Ariadne+at+Home+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT Interior wall with wooden chest of drawers, potted plants, hanging deer antlers, horse racing poster, black radiator, pairs of black and brown cowboy boots, and a brown cowhide rug. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ed543942-b39e-44f6-90f8-4935c5371bfa/Coast+magazine+shot+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT A bedroom with white walls and a bed with dark bedding. A woven basket with blankets and items sits on the beige carpeted floor. A chandelier made of natural materials hangs from the ceiling. There is a ceiling-mounted light beside the bed and a wall-mounted lamp. A window with black and white curtains lets in natural light. A mounted deer skull with antlers decorates the wall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/03cec76d-783a-4695-b861-5050fc1bbd64/Coast+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT A cozy living room corner with a white vintage dresser, a large mirror above, potted plants, a decorative wooden sculpture, a tripod floor lamp, a light gray sofa with textured throw pillows, a small wooden folding table with a magazine, a black and white patterned area rug, and framed art leaning against the wall. Wall decal in blue text reads: "I'm particularly fond of the scandi look, but also love rustic pieces as well as vintage and retro furniture." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/64719a8b-bc44-40dd-a149-2727d8844cdb/Coast+image+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT Interior and exterior views of a modern home with rustic and contemporary decor, including a kitchen, vintage-themed shelving, a woman relaxing outside in a hanging chair, and a decorated entryway with artwork and a wooden chest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ac98af16-768b-47d2-bf00-e54fdfe1981c/Seasons+Wonen+magazine+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT A bedroom with a rustic natural wood headboard, black painted brick wall, a blue lantern hanging from a tree branch, and a bed with pillows and patterned bedding. The text on the wall is in Dutch and discusses a new purpose for a barn at Warborne Farm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7af89a40-2756-4965-8a54-361c754bbe6a/Page+from+Season+Wonen+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT Modern kitchen with dish rack, green plants, and decorative items on a white brick wall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/65c9eb36-12fc-45d7-8970-4932f6696e41/Z.I.+Bathroom+with+copper+bath+0446.jpg ABOUT A rustic bathroom featuring a vintage copper bathtub, a white toilet, wooden flooring and ceiling beams, modern wall art of fish, and decorative plants and accessories on a small shelf. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4c28f41d-70f2-480f-a635-523be5970646/Seasons+Wonen+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT Living room with a dark blue sofa, striped armchair with pillows, glass display cabinet, and open wooden door. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/420a89dc-9920-45aa-b1ee-cf2b42c94506/25+Beautiful+Homes+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png ABOUT Living room with a wood stove, black armchair, striped armchair, and cowhide rug, decorated with a circular black and beige wall hanging and a hanging white pouf, in a rustic style space with wooden beams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5a5ee837-3611-4b88-aa44-b3cb5cb2297f/Sandra+van+Aalst+shot+for+Seasons+Wonen.png ABOUT Interior of a room with rustic wooden dining table, metal chairs, potted plants, black pendant lights, white brick wall with framed pictures and metal siding, with Dutch text on the wall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a586f604-249b-4e58-bd66-a02c5965fcc9/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet10.png ABOUT Photo by Sandra van Aalst magazine tear sheet of Homes and Gardens https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c299ac94-94de-460b-ad0e-66b23618a5ca/Homes+and+Garden+magazine+tear+sheet+Sandra+van+Aalst10.png ABOUT Modern kitchen with blue cabinets, black countertop, built-in ovens, a black barstool, hanging metallic light fixture, a vase of pink flowers, and open shelves with plants. Photo by Sandra van Aalst magazine tear sheet of Homes and Gardens https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/820e08eb-2c8a-48e7-9d0a-1dd7dcec490a/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet14.png ABOUT Photo by Sandra van Aalst magazine tear sheet of Homes and Gardens https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/108265eb-1c28-4349-9f1e-c482a2e515a9/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet3.png ABOUT Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house exterior - magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d8a257db-ecf4-439b-83f2-4b1d28cea872/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet4.png ABOUT Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house exterior magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/58315246-d3e5-47b5-bc65-96f38d42813f/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet12.png ABOUT Photo by Sandra van Aalst magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3878cf69-3062-4b74-bd5a-d47da7abe568/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet1.png ABOUT Photo by Sandra van Aalst magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0affb775-32bf-4605-86dc-11fbd129996c/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet13.png ABOUT Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house kitchen magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/197b784b-6a53-45d1-a1a1-b0640077de65/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet7.png ABOUT Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house in th hallway magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f6b5ceb5-3fd5-44bf-96fe-8d68d5ca29fd/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet2.png ABOUT Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house living room magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/06259539-a3ad-470e-993a-14f076f75ae0/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet5.png ABOUT Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house terrace - magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/aa3d879c-b70b-4b1a-a081-14fda7ca8861/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet9.png ABOUT A stone sink on a wooden countertop, with a mirror and soap dispenser and a potted plant with large green leaves inside a black pot https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1c4285f1-6b3e-4f65-afbe-053798d6f5fd/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet8.png ABOUT Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house bedroom magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5caacd0f-cf2b-41c9-aec2-c0e7ac4de592/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet6.png ABOUT Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house living room magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/db6f3628-c783-4511-8689-40f24a79fb8f/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet11.png ABOUT Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house dining room magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d7a5cc97-be65-4c95-be10-e7f13f1078bd/Magazine+tearsheet+from+Inside+out+magazine+bedroom.png ABOUT . Photo by Sandra van Aalst magazine tear sheet from Inside Out magazine bedroom and basin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/792d3baa-3267-4903-a73e-f3366ff50782/Magazine+tear+sheet+Dutch+masterpiece.png ABOUT Photo by Sandra van Aalst magazine tear sheet from Inside Out magazine terrace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cb0afee5-0572-4c7a-98b5-aad6ee4eb49c/Magazine+tearsheet+from+Inside+out+magazine.png ABOUT Photo by Sandra van Aalst magazine tear sheet from Inside Out magazine terrace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3bb919cf-1cf7-44be-94a7-85117cec1a54/25+Beautiful+Homes+Shalfleet+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.jpg ABOUT Decorative carved fireplace mantel with white vases and a flower against wooden carvings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/62c567fd-6bee-43f3-b079-24d2c711e3bd/image00001-1.jpeg ABOUT Magazine tear sheet of a heritage living room with dark wood paneling, a marble fireplace, and plush furniture, including a white fur-covered chair and a burnt orange ottoman. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/53f58c57-95fd-4e14-8a4e-019aa61fb032/16.jpg ABOUT Magazine tear sheet of an interior of a room with a rustic stone wall, a white sofa with velvet and linen cushions and a brass chandelier. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b9b7aa3c-4285-489a-9865-c418dd831369/17.jpg ABOUT A magazine feature of three images of a bedroom, bathroom, and a children's attic room. The bedroom has a large bed with a tufted headboard, white curtains, and a mirror. The bathroom features a freestanding bathtub, a walk-in shower, and a ladder. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/fbaaa402-ab75-4e61-a797-dcbbd3d092f8/14.jpg ABOUT Traditional style living room with a stone fireplace, beige armchair, grey armchair with a cream throw, wooden coffee table with a pink flower arrangement, large window with beige curtains, and a built-in bookshelf in the background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f24c76d-31aa-43f2-877c-5b88399d7fc6/15.jpg ABOUT A magazine feature of three interior rooms: a kitchen with light-painted cabinetry and a wooden ceiling beam, a dining room with a rustic wooden table and white chairs, and a living room with ornate dark wood paneling, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/33f9708a-3c93-40de-b947-e6d2ace4ca0a/Stijlvol+wonen+magazine+tear+sheet+by+Sandra+van+Aalst6.png ABOUT Photograph of an outdoor lounge area with vintage furniture, a black door, a glass lantern, a barbecue grill, and a countertop with a planter. Text in Dutch at the top and bottom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ce3636f0-aaea-4d64-9b4b-01875f596ec3/Stijlvol+wonen+magazine+tear+sheet+by+Sandra+van+Aalst5.png ABOUT A living room with a gray armchair, a wooden coffee table with books, a black sofa, a black bookshelf with decorative objects and books, and large windows with light curtains. The room is well-lit with natural light. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/83f44f12-11ae-470b-bc37-8cf24871e7e7/Stijlvol+wonen+magazine+tear+sheet+by+Sandra+van+Aalst4.png ABOUT Image from Stijlvol Wonen Magazine. A modern kitchen with a black countertop island decorated with a wooden bowl filled with vegetables and herbs. The background features light-colored cabinets with glass doors, a built-in oven, and kitchen utensils. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2072ff8d-a421-43be-812d-8d0860529922/Stijlvol+wonen+magazine+tear+sheet+by+Sandra+van+Aalst3.png ABOUT Image from Stijlvol Wonen Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. Modern living room with large windows, a fireplace, gray sofa, armchair, coffee table, and a dog lying on a rug near the fireplace. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/14e2d817-8b73-4930-a63e-925d846f5025/Stijlvol+wonen+magazine+tear+sheet+by+Sandra+van+Aalst8.png ABOUT Image from Stijlvol Wonen Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. jPartial view of an interior room with a large monochrome portrait of a woman on the left wall and an adjoining room with a bathroom or vanity area visible through an open doorway to a bathroom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1751807803947-60Z1RDOTD3SE33VAK3HQ/Stijlvol%252Bwonen%252Bmagazine%252Btear%252Bsheet%252Bby%252BSandra%252Bvan%252BAalst7.jpg ABOUT Image from Stijlvol Wonen Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. A bedroom seen through a black-framed glass door, featuring a bed with a pink blanket, a black ottoman, a window with blinds, and a wall art of a dog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/43fe8ced-84bb-4372-a90d-ab00ab126978/Stijlvol+wonen+magazine+tear+sheet+by+Sandra+van+Aalst2.png ABOUT Image from Stijlvol Wonen Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. Modern dining room with a wooden table, four chairs, a white vase with decorative branches, a black fireplace, and large windows with curtains. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8a9128e0-a0ed-4f96-a652-4e6fd9a57f1f/Stijlvol+wonen+magazine+tear+sheet+by+Sandra+van+Aalst1.png ABOUT Image from Stijlvol Wonen Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. A bright dining area with a large wooden table, white upholstered chairs, and a wall with arched windows. There are gray curtains, a pile of chopped firewood, a wooden cabinet with lit candles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0a39ea15-a33a-47c1-823d-f378336f895d/Sandra+van+Aalst+Interior+style+host+about+page+photo+copy.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/eac55058-b378-4660-86a6-13433d4cd456/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+house+interior.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4f1fef46-a831-4591-95ff-b3caefcf21de/Sandra+van+Aalst+the+Interior+Style+Host-Home.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e011c3d8-b7f7-497b-af98-7f181a024f9e/Untitled+%2860+x+15+cm%29-3.png https://www.interiorstylehost.com/press daily 0.75 2026-03-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f7ce8282-1a53-4d72-b266-d5b66dfa90ef/Modern+Rustic+Magazine+tear+sheet+Sandra+van+Aalst6.png PRESS Magazine tear sheet from Modern Rustic Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. A modern kitchen with black wall, brick accent, gray island with four stools, pendant lights, and decorative items on the countertop. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d94c7478-8e43-4dbf-b05e-f9d34bec5f98/Modern+Rustic+Magazine+tear+sheet+Sandra+van+Aalst5.png PRESS Magazine tear sheet from Modern Rustic Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. A Living room with a sectional sofa, a brick fireplace, and a window with wooden shutters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f590788a-f22d-46a5-8578-421e148b26bc/Modern+Rustic+Magazine+tear+sheet+Sandra+van+Aalst+1.png PRESS Magazine tear sheet from Modern Rustic Magazine by Sandra van Aalst -modern industrial styled living room with a large rust-colored pendant light, gray sofa, white cabinets, and decorative elements, with a sign titled 'Urban Oasis' in the background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/95d7d5b9-f534-41ec-9a83-64e5d3a40f3d/Modern+Rustic+Magazine+tear+sheet+Sandra+van+Aalst3.png PRESS Magazine tear sheet from Modern Rustic Magazine by Sandra van Aalst, a modern living room with a hanging wire egg-shaped chair with a white fur cushion, black shaggy rug, and minimalist decor, including a small fireplace and a vase of flowers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7fd434eb-61cc-4f5b-ad07-88b9e8925e2c/Modern+Rustic+Magazine+tear+sheet+Sandra+van+Aalst8.png PRESS Magazine tear sheet from Modern Rustic Magazine by Sandra van Aalst, a white bed with gray bedding and decorative pillows against a wall with yellow paint at the head of the bed, featuring small framed art above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/78d573aa-808b-4a9c-bf0b-aadaae4204fb/Modern+Rustic+Magazine+tear+sheet+Sandra+van+Aalst2.png PRESS Magazine tear sheet from Modern Rustic by Sandra van Aalst. A wooden table with potted plants, a glass lantern with a white candle, a small garden shears, and a tied flower stem. An vintage brown trunk is underneath the table. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/513ac0ce-ed1b-4e0a-aaea-88c21ff21202/Modern+Rustic+Magazine+tear+sheet+Sandra+van+Aalst7.png PRESS Magazine tear sheet from Modern Rustic Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. A bathroom with a white sink, copper pipe faucet, wooden ladder-style shelves, and a wooden cabinet above the sink. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/61a15430-d930-4665-86d0-591a54ff431f/Sandra+van+Aalst+featured+in+House+Beautiful1.png PRESS A magazine feature showing a coastal landscape with a sandy beach, trees, and blue sky. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/aeeabb00-339c-4620-b4f4-ed8d82096c3b/Sandra+van+Aalst+featured+in+House+Beautiful2.png PRESS A magazine tear sheet of a dining room with wooden table, chairs, large window with greenery outside, brick wall, hanging light fixture, candleholders with lit candles, a glass vase with leafy green and white flowers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f21f6c65-f0e4-4deb-929d-dae977c10c46/Sandra+van+Aalst+featured+in+House+Beautiful7.png PRESS A magazine tear sheet with an Interior shot of a living room with large windows, brown leather armchair with green pillow, white pendant lamp, and a view of an outdoor garden with trees and grass. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cbe5dfbd-eed6-40b1-ab69-aacaf325b044/Sandra+van+Aalst+featured+in+House+Beautiful4.png PRESS A magazine tear sheet with an Interior shot of a living room with a turquoise sofa, armchair, wooden coffee table, large sliding glass doors showing outdoor greenery, and hanging linen pendant lights. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c15f8ca8-015a-47af-8277-10c61af2edd7/Sandra+van+Aalst+featured+in+House+Beautiful5.png PRESS A magazine tear sheet with an Interior shot of a modern kitchen with a wooden island, two bar stools, a window with a view of trees, black wall lamps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/42944501-6761-4cb7-b38d-c44eedea146d/Sandra+van+Aalst+featured+in+House+Beautiful.png PRESS A magazine tear sheet of interior views of a modern home showcasing a minimalist entryway with a small wooden desk, a framed artwork, and an outdoor patio scene; an abstract wall mural in a living space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4ac58e96-21e0-4c7a-9b58-19b25befa089/Sandra+van+Aalst+featured+in+House+Beautiful8.png PRESS Interior view of a modern home entry with wooden door and glass windows showing a lush green garden outside; minimal decor with candles on a wooden table, coat hooks on the wall, and a quote about re-imagining a traditional style barn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/6ec1882a-7252-4c91-a1a9-999fa7f67937/Sandra+van+Aalst+featured+in+House+Beautiful6.png PRESS A magazine tear sheet with an Interior shot of a bright bedroom with large windows, plenty of natural light, white bedding, accent pillows, and green curtains, with a view of the outdoors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7523d0eb-2062-43b4-8535-27b5aace3708/Magazine+tearsheet+bedroom.png PRESS Magazine tear sheet from Elle Decoration Country Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. Bedroom in damson colour with light coloured washed linen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/486f5323-740c-4891-b60e-e39ad38b981a/Magazine+tearsheet+bathroom.png PRESS Magazine tear sheet from Elle Decoration Country Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. Bathroom with rolltop bath https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1b67ad65-2df6-4fe4-80f8-2fdcb150968f/Elle+Deco+Country+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS Magazine tear sheet from Elle Decoration Country Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. Living room with large window, sofa with throw pillows, black armchair, wooden coffee table, and black metal shelving with white dishware. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/adc68854-4bfd-48eb-9ae3-eb17ce4abe37/Magazine+tear+sheet+kitchen.png PRESS Magazine tear sheet from Elle Decoration Country Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. Kitchen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/301751a4-84ee-43b2-8e05-3b7649ec2eed/Elle+Decoration+Country+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS Magazine tear sheet from Elle Decoration. A modern kitchen and dining area with a dark kitchen island, a dining table, and chairs with sheepskin covers. Pendant lights hang from the ceiling, and there is a window with sheer curtains. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d6a9830f-1451-4883-a76f-9edbd5c447a4/Magazine+tearsheet+Living+room.png PRESS Magazine tear sheet from Elle Decoration Country Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. Living room with view to dining room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/93b5a2a6-b7fa-480b-8107-63a8e53151fe/Elle+Decoration+Country+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS Magazine tear sheet from Elle Decoration Country Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. A side view of a modern living room and kitchen area with large windows, a hanging lamp, a sofa, chairs, and a rug. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/59a3859a-23f1-4252-a9b0-81929a0bacb1/12Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS Collage of four interior photos of a rustic, cozy attic living space with wooden beams, kitchen, dining area, and seating area. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cbfbd368-cf96-48fb-b31b-2d6ab820a839/SW+Magazine+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS Living room with a brown leather Chesterfield sofa with striped cushions, a red wooden wall panel on the back, a black wood stove with a pipe, wood logs in baskets, and visible wooden ceiling beams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2cdb87d1-93e2-4a96-974a-b0d51ab75d57/Seasons+Wonen+photographed+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS A collage of three interior bedrooms, each with distinct decor, and a black-and-white photo of a farm house. The first bedroom has red walls, a pitched ceiling with exposed wood beams, a bed with a dog on it, and a lamp beside the bed. The second bedroom features a brick wall, a bed with striped pillows, and a small side table. The third bathroom has a vintage bathtub, framed pictures on white walls, and a sloped ceiling with wooden beams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/422e4dcf-6d38-4751-9e30-0bc794d03295/Seasons+wonen+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS Children's bedroom in The Grain Loft with twin beds made with horsehair-filled mattresses, fur throws, and a red accent wall, featuring exposed wooden beams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/acecf416-bc2a-4a12-9753-d739b745c184/10Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS A bedroom with a bed, nightstands with lamps, a red brick wall behind the bed, and an exposed wooden beam ceiling with a skylight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/22318994-9740-4457-9f88-f1d5aee5e35e/City+Life+magazine+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS A woman in a green dress sitting on a emerald green sofa in a living room with a photo gallery wall behind her and a green patterned rug on the floor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/27730d5a-8a1e-407f-abb4-a0fdca401cee/City+Life+magazine+Lisa+Butcher+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS A woman practicing yoga outdoors at a pond surrounded by trees, with a Buddha sculpture in the water; also includes a close-up of a sitting Buddha statue, and jewelry including a gold butterfly ring and a gold chain with circular links; a fashion photograph of three women. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4c4e56fd-7ad0-4bbb-8b91-57a984fddba6/Grand+Designs+Magazine+image+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS Modern dining room with a light wooden table, several chairs with metal frames and wooden seats, and small vases with flowers on the table. The walls are painted dark blue, and there is a large window with greenery outside. A colorful abstract painting hangs on the wall, and a wooden beam runs across the white ceiling. The image is from Grand Design Magazine, June 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c8a29d90-fe5e-4ace-a740-c168a2d4e2b5/Sandra+van+Aalst+shot+for+Grand+Designs.png PRESS Living room with light gray sofa adorned with colorful pillows, large windows showing green outdoor landscape, and interior decor including a black horse sculpture and vibrant green wall, with a view of a modern house outside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a1ffd2ba-b092-4b54-a5cb-bfdaec20b026/Grand+Designs+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS Modern kitchen with stainless steel work surfaces, wooden cabinets, a green cucumber and herbs on a cutting board, a bowl of pears, and a large window showing a garden outside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7a83ba9f-40c7-4668-bb75-05b3566950a1/Ariadne+at+Home+shot+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS A woman in a cream sweater and green pants ties her shoelaces in front of a staircase in a white interior. There is a woven basket on the floor and a brown rug. The setting appears cozy and vintage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4413016a-17bb-4757-9dae-49eb69f4a977/Ariadne+at+Home+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS Interior wall with wooden chest of drawers, potted plants, hanging deer antlers, horse racing poster, black radiator, pairs of black and brown cowboy boots, and a brown cowhide rug. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ed543942-b39e-44f6-90f8-4935c5371bfa/Coast+magazine+shot+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS A bedroom with white walls and a bed with dark bedding. A woven basket with blankets and items sits on the beige carpeted floor. A chandelier made of natural materials hangs from the ceiling. There is a ceiling-mounted light beside the bed and a wall-mounted lamp. A window with black and white curtains lets in natural light. A mounted deer skull with antlers decorates the wall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/03cec76d-783a-4695-b861-5050fc1bbd64/Coast+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS A cozy living room corner with a white vintage dresser, a large mirror above, potted plants, a decorative wooden sculpture, a tripod floor lamp, a light gray sofa with textured throw pillows, a small wooden folding table with a magazine, a black and white patterned area rug, and framed art leaning against the wall. Wall decal in blue text reads: "I'm particularly fond of the scandi look, but also love rustic pieces as well as vintage and retro furniture." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/64719a8b-bc44-40dd-a149-2727d8844cdb/Coast+image+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS Interior and exterior views of a modern home with rustic and contemporary decor, including a kitchen, vintage-themed shelving, a woman relaxing outside in a hanging chair, and a decorated entryway with artwork and a wooden chest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ac98af16-768b-47d2-bf00-e54fdfe1981c/Seasons+Wonen+magazine+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS A bedroom with a rustic natural wood headboard, black painted brick wall, a blue lantern hanging from a tree branch, and a bed with pillows and patterned bedding. The text on the wall is in Dutch and discusses a new purpose for a barn at Warborne Farm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/7af89a40-2756-4965-8a54-361c754bbe6a/Page+from+Season+Wonen+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS Modern kitchen with dish rack, green plants, and decorative items on a white brick wall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/65c9eb36-12fc-45d7-8970-4932f6696e41/Z.I.+Bathroom+with+copper+bath+0446.jpg PRESS A rustic bathroom featuring a vintage copper bathtub, a white toilet, wooden flooring and ceiling beams, modern wall art of fish, and decorative plants and accessories on a small shelf. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/4c28f41d-70f2-480f-a635-523be5970646/Seasons+Wonen+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS Living room with a dark blue sofa, striped armchair with pillows, glass display cabinet, and open wooden door. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/420a89dc-9920-45aa-b1ee-cf2b42c94506/25+Beautiful+Homes+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.png PRESS Living room with a wood stove, black armchair, striped armchair, and cowhide rug, decorated with a circular black and beige wall hanging and a hanging white pouf, in a rustic style space with wooden beams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5a5ee837-3611-4b88-aa44-b3cb5cb2297f/Sandra+van+Aalst+shot+for+Seasons+Wonen.png PRESS Interior of a room with rustic wooden dining table, metal chairs, potted plants, black pendant lights, white brick wall with framed pictures and metal siding, with Dutch text on the wall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/a586f604-249b-4e58-bd66-a02c5965fcc9/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet10.png PRESS Photo by Sandra van Aalst magazine tear sheet of Homes and Gardens https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/c299ac94-94de-460b-ad0e-66b23618a5ca/Homes+and+Garden+magazine+tear+sheet+Sandra+van+Aalst10.png PRESS Modern kitchen with blue cabinets, black countertop, built-in ovens, a black barstool, hanging metallic light fixture, a vase of pink flowers, and open shelves with plants. Photo by Sandra van Aalst magazine tear sheet of Homes and Gardens https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/820e08eb-2c8a-48e7-9d0a-1dd7dcec490a/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet14.png PRESS Photo by Sandra van Aalst magazine tear sheet of Homes and Gardens https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/108265eb-1c28-4349-9f1e-c482a2e515a9/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet3.png PRESS Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house exterior - magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d8a257db-ecf4-439b-83f2-4b1d28cea872/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet4.png PRESS Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house exterior magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/58315246-d3e5-47b5-bc65-96f38d42813f/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet12.png PRESS Photo by Sandra van Aalst magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3878cf69-3062-4b74-bd5a-d47da7abe568/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet1.png PRESS Photo by Sandra van Aalst magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/0affb775-32bf-4605-86dc-11fbd129996c/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet13.png PRESS Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house kitchen magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/197b784b-6a53-45d1-a1a1-b0640077de65/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet7.png PRESS Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house in th hallway magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/f6b5ceb5-3fd5-44bf-96fe-8d68d5ca29fd/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet2.png PRESS Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house living room magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/06259539-a3ad-470e-993a-14f076f75ae0/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet5.png PRESS Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house terrace - magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/aa3d879c-b70b-4b1a-a081-14fda7ca8861/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet9.png PRESS A stone sink on a wooden countertop, with a mirror and soap dispenser and a potted plant with large green leaves inside a black pot https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1c4285f1-6b3e-4f65-afbe-053798d6f5fd/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet8.png PRESS Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house bedroom magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/5caacd0f-cf2b-41c9-aec2-c0e7ac4de592/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet6.png PRESS Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house living room magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/db6f3628-c783-4511-8689-40f24a79fb8f/Sandra+van+Aalst+self+built+home+magazine+tear+sheet11.png PRESS Photo by Sandra van Aalst of her self built house dining room magazine tear sheet of Women Landerliijk Stijl feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/d7a5cc97-be65-4c95-be10-e7f13f1078bd/Magazine+tearsheet+from+Inside+out+magazine+bedroom.png PRESS . Photo by Sandra van Aalst magazine tear sheet from Inside Out magazine bedroom and basin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/792d3baa-3267-4903-a73e-f3366ff50782/Magazine+tear+sheet+Dutch+masterpiece.png PRESS Photo by Sandra van Aalst magazine tear sheet from Inside Out magazine terrace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/cb0afee5-0572-4c7a-98b5-aad6ee4eb49c/Magazine+tearsheet+from+Inside+out+magazine.png PRESS Photo by Sandra van Aalst magazine tear sheet from Inside Out magazine terrace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/3bb919cf-1cf7-44be-94a7-85117cec1a54/25+Beautiful+Homes+Shalfleet+shot+by+Sandra+van+Aalst.jpg PRESS Decorative carved fireplace mantel with white vases and a flower against wooden carvings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/62c567fd-6bee-43f3-b079-24d2c711e3bd/image00001-1.jpeg PRESS Magazine tear sheet of a heritage living room with dark wood paneling, a marble fireplace, and plush furniture, including a white fur-covered chair and a burnt orange ottoman. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/53f58c57-95fd-4e14-8a4e-019aa61fb032/16.jpg PRESS Magazine tear sheet of an interior of a room with a rustic stone wall, a white sofa with velvet and linen cushions and a brass chandelier. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/b9b7aa3c-4285-489a-9865-c418dd831369/17.jpg PRESS A magazine feature of three images of a bedroom, bathroom, and a children's attic room. The bedroom has a large bed with a tufted headboard, white curtains, and a mirror. The bathroom features a freestanding bathtub, a walk-in shower, and a ladder. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/fbaaa402-ab75-4e61-a797-dcbbd3d092f8/14.jpg PRESS Traditional style living room with a stone fireplace, beige armchair, grey armchair with a cream throw, wooden coffee table with a pink flower arrangement, large window with beige curtains, and a built-in bookshelf in the background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1f24c76d-31aa-43f2-877c-5b88399d7fc6/15.jpg PRESS A magazine feature of three interior rooms: a kitchen with light-painted cabinetry and a wooden ceiling beam, a dining room with a rustic wooden table and white chairs, and a living room with ornate dark wood paneling, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/33f9708a-3c93-40de-b947-e6d2ace4ca0a/Stijlvol+wonen+magazine+tear+sheet+by+Sandra+van+Aalst6.png PRESS Photograph of an outdoor lounge area with vintage furniture, a black door, a glass lantern, a barbecue grill, and a countertop with a planter. Text in Dutch at the top and bottom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/ce3636f0-aaea-4d64-9b4b-01875f596ec3/Stijlvol+wonen+magazine+tear+sheet+by+Sandra+van+Aalst5.png PRESS A living room with a gray armchair, a wooden coffee table with books, a black sofa, a black bookshelf with decorative objects and books, and large windows with light curtains. The room is well-lit with natural light. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/83f44f12-11ae-470b-bc37-8cf24871e7e7/Stijlvol+wonen+magazine+tear+sheet+by+Sandra+van+Aalst4.png PRESS Image from Stijlvol Wonen Magazine. A modern kitchen with a black countertop island decorated with a wooden bowl filled with vegetables and herbs. The background features light-colored cabinets with glass doors, a built-in oven, and kitchen utensils. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/2072ff8d-a421-43be-812d-8d0860529922/Stijlvol+wonen+magazine+tear+sheet+by+Sandra+van+Aalst3.png PRESS Image from Stijlvol Wonen Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. Modern living room with large windows, a fireplace, gray sofa, armchair, coffee table, and a dog lying on a rug near the fireplace. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/14e2d817-8b73-4930-a63e-925d846f5025/Stijlvol+wonen+magazine+tear+sheet+by+Sandra+van+Aalst8.png PRESS Image from Stijlvol Wonen Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. jPartial view of an interior room with a large monochrome portrait of a woman on the left wall and an adjoining room with a bathroom or vanity area visible through an open doorway to a bathroom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/1751807803947-60Z1RDOTD3SE33VAK3HQ/Stijlvol%252Bwonen%252Bmagazine%252Btear%252Bsheet%252Bby%252BSandra%252Bvan%252BAalst7.jpg PRESS Image from Stijlvol Wonen Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. A bedroom seen through a black-framed glass door, featuring a bed with a pink blanket, a black ottoman, a window with blinds, and a wall art of a dog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/43fe8ced-84bb-4372-a90d-ab00ab126978/Stijlvol+wonen+magazine+tear+sheet+by+Sandra+van+Aalst2.png PRESS Image from Stijlvol Wonen Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. Modern dining room with a wooden table, four chairs, a white vase with decorative branches, a black fireplace, and large windows with curtains. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/8a9128e0-a0ed-4f96-a652-4e6fd9a57f1f/Stijlvol+wonen+magazine+tear+sheet+by+Sandra+van+Aalst1.png PRESS Image from Stijlvol Wonen Magazine by Sandra van Aalst. A bright dining area with a large wooden table, white upholstered chairs, and a wall with arched windows. There are gray curtains, a pile of chopped firewood, a wooden cabinet with lit candles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/63589889c32ef9690ef6c586/e011c3d8-b7f7-497b-af98-7f181a024f9e/Untitled+%2860+x+15+cm%29-3.png