Weekend Wins: Easy DIY Projects to Transform Your Home in Just Two Days
Let’s face it—we all want our homes to feel a little more polished, cozy, or just “done.” But between busy schedules and tight budgets, tackling a full renovation isn’t always realistic. That’s where weekend DIYs come in.
As an interior designer (and avid weekend warrior myself), I love simple projects that give you a big impact with minimal time and tools. Whether you’re craving a little refresh or just want to check something satisfying off your to-do list, here are my favorite DIYs you can absolutely knock out in a weekend—no contractor required.
1. Paint an Accent Wall (or a Whole Room)
Few things change the feel of a space as quickly and affordably as paint. You don’t even need to commit to a full room—an accent wall can give your space a fresh focal point.
Time estimate: 2–6 hours
What you need: Paint, rollers, painter’s tape, drop cloth
Designer tip: Try a bold color behind your bed, a soft sage in the dining room, or a moody navy in a small powder bath. If you're feeling adventurous, go for a geometric or color-blocked pattern!
2. Upgrade Your Cabinet Hardware
Swapping out dated knobs and pulls on kitchen or bathroom cabinets is a game-changer—and takes less than an hour once you’ve got the new pieces.
Time estimate: 1–2 hours
What you need: New hardware, screwdriver or drill, measuring tape
Designer tip: Matte black, aged brass, or even leather pulls can make older cabinets feel brand new.
3. Create a DIY Gallery Wall
Turn your blank wall into a curated art moment. Mix and match frames, include personal photos, travel souvenirs, or even printable art (hello, Etsy!).
Time estimate: 2–4 hours
What you need: Frames, art or photos, hammer, nails or command strips, level
Designer tip: Lay everything out on the floor first to play with the arrangement before hanging. Don’t be afraid to mix sizes and textures.
4. Add Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper or Tile
This one’s a renter-friendly dream. Peel-and-stick options have come a long way—they look legit, and they’re easy to install and remove.
Time estimate: 3–6 hours
What you need: Peel-and-stick wallpaper or tile, utility knife, smoothing tool
Where to try it: Behind open shelving in a kitchen, on a powder room wall, or as a backsplash.
5. Build a Simple Floating Shelf
Floating shelves are perfect for showing off plants, books, or décor. And guess what? You can build them with just a few boards and brackets.
Time estimate: 2–4 hours
What you need: Wood planks, brackets, screws, level, drill, wood stain (optional)
Designer tip: Use a darker stain for a modern vibe or leave the wood raw for a Scandinavian look.
6. Refresh Your Front Door
Curb appeal counts—even if it's just for your own daily joy. Painting your front door or adding a new house number can instantly elevate the exterior.
Time estimate: 2–3 hours
What you need: Exterior paint, painter’s tape, brush/roller, new hardware (optional)
Designer tip: Bold colors like teal, coral, or classic black really pop against neutral exteriors.
7. Make a Cozy Reading Nook
No construction required. Just rearrange a comfy chair, add a small table, a lamp, and a throw blanket. Bonus points for a nearby plant or floating shelf of books.
Time estimate: 1–2 hours
What you need: Chair, throw blanket, side table, lamp, a good book
Designer tip: Corners by windows or under a staircase are prime spots for creating cozy nooks.
Final Thoughts
DIY doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The best part about weekend projects is the instant gratification—they’re small enough to finish, but impactful enough to make you fall back in love with your space.
So grab your tools (and maybe a cup of coffee or a playlist), and dive in. You might be surprised how much you can accomplish in just a couple of days.
Got a favorite weekend DIY? Share it in the comments or tag me in your projects—I’d love to see what you’re working on!
The Best Colors for Your Home in 2025
As an interior designer, I’ve always believed that color is one of the most powerful tools we have to shape how a space feels. Whether you want your home to feel cozy and intimate, fresh and airy, or bold and dramatic, color is key. And each year brings with it a fresh perspective on the hues we’re drawn to—driven by cultural shifts, design trends, and even our collective moods.
So, what colors are making waves in 2025? Here’s what I’m loving right now—and how you can bring these trending tones into your home.
1. Warm Earth Tones Are Still Going Strong
Think sunbaked clay, rich terracotta, and caramel-like browns. These colors continue to dominate in 2025, and it’s easy to see why: they ground us. After years of cool greys and stark whites, homeowners are craving warmth and connection. These earthy shades evoke nature, comfort, and stability—perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, or even kitchens.
Designer tip: Pair with creamy off-whites, aged brass fixtures, and natural wood accents for a space that feels timeless and welcoming.
2. Moody Blues and Inky Greens
Dramatic yet calming, deeper hues are making a big statement this year. Navy has long been a classic, but now we’re seeing more inky blue-greens and forest shades being used to create depth and sophistication.
Best for: Dining rooms, studies, or as an accent wall in a minimalist bedroom.
Designer tip: Don’t be afraid to go bold. Matte finishes in these tones look luxurious—especially when paired with velvet textures, marble, or black hardware.
3. Soft, Muted Pastels
Not your typical nursery pastels—2025’s version is all grown up. Think dusty rose, faded lavender, muted mint, and soft peach. These colors bring a gentle, calming energy to a space without being too saccharine.
Where to use them: Bathrooms, entryways, or bedrooms—anywhere you want a little serenity.
Designer tip: Use tone-on-tone layering with textiles and accessories to keep the look sophisticated and modern.
4. Greige Is the New Neutral
If you’re not ready to go bold, greige (a beautiful blend of grey and beige) is still the go-to neutral this year. It’s warmer than pure grey and more versatile than beige—a perfect backdrop for almost any style.
Where it shines: Walls, cabinetry, and large upholstered pieces like sofas.
Designer tip: Layer it with natural materials like rattan, linen, and stone to create a modern organic vibe.
5. Pops of Citrus and Zest
On the bolder end of the spectrum, we’re seeing pops of citrusy hues—lemon yellow, tangerine, even a zingy lime green. Used sparingly, these colors inject personality and energy into a space.
Where to try it: Accent pillows, a painted door, a statement chair, or even kitchen accessories.
Designer tip: Balance these brights with more grounded colors (like warm browns or greige) to keep things from feeling overwhelming.
Final Thoughts
As with any trend, the most important thing is to choose colors that you connect with. A color can be totally “in” this year, but if it doesn’t resonate with you, it won’t feel right in your space. My advice? Use these palettes as inspiration and trust your instincts. Your home should reflect your personality—not just what’s trending.
If you’re unsure where to start, try sampling paint swatches in different light throughout the day, or begin small with accessories and textiles before committing to a wall color.
Need help choosing the right colors for your space? Reach out—I’d love to help you create a palette that makes your home feel like you.
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What colors are you excited about this year? Drop a comment below or tag me in your favorite paint updates!
The Benefits of Hiring a Virtual Interior Designer
The Benefits of Hiring a Virtual Interior Designer: Why Going Digital Can Transform Your Space
In today’s fast-paced world, convenience, accessibility, and flexibility are paramount—especially when it comes to home design. Traditional interior design services can be time-consuming, expensive, and require frequent in-person consultations. But with the rise of technology, virtual interior designers have entered the scene, providing a modern solution that blends creativity with convenience. Here’s why hiring a virtual interior designer could be the best decision you make for your home.
1. Convenience and Flexibility
One of the biggest advantages of hiring a virtual interior designer is the sheer convenience. You don’t have to worry about scheduling in-person meetings, making time for site visits, or rearranging your day to accommodate an in-person consultation. Whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go, you can access your designer from anywhere.
Virtual interior designers typically communicate via video calls, emails, or specialized apps, allowing you to collaborate on your project no matter your location or time zone. This is especially beneficial for people with busy schedules, or those who live in remote areas where finding a local designer might be challenging.
2. Cost-Effective Solutions
Traditional interior design services can be expensive. The cost of in-person consultations, travel fees, and custom-made furniture often adds up quickly. Virtual interior designers, on the other hand, offer more affordable options. Since virtual design doesn’t require a physical presence, overhead costs are often lower, which means savings can be passed on to you, the client.
Moreover, many virtual designers offer tiered pricing packages, allowing you to choose a service level that matches your budget. Whether you need full-scale design services or a quick consultation for a specific room, there’s a package that works for you.
3. Access to Top Talent Worldwide
When you hire a local interior designer, you're limited to the talent pool in your area. But with virtual design, geographical boundaries no longer exist. You can work with some of the best designers from around the world, accessing a diverse range of design styles, perspectives, and expertise.
This global network of designers allows you to find someone who aligns perfectly with your style and preferences, whether you’re looking for minimalist Scandinavian design, boho-chic, or modern luxury. Virtual platforms also often allow you to browse designer portfolios, making it easier to find the right fit for your vision.
4. Personalized, Tailored Designs
Despite the virtual nature of the service, many interior designers are able to provide highly personalized and tailored designs for their clients. Through virtual consultations, detailed questionnaires, and digital mood boards, your designer can understand your needs, preferences, and lifestyle to craft a space that truly reflects your personality.
Additionally, virtual interior designers often use 3D renderings and mood boards, which allow you to visualize your space before making any commitments. This technology makes it easier to experiment with different layouts, color schemes, and furnishings, helping you make informed decisions.
5. Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness
Another benefit of virtual interior design is the potential for a more sustainable approach to home decorating. Traditional interior design often involves a lot of physical samples, catalogs, and even furniture that may not be needed. In contrast, virtual designers rely on digital tools and online shopping, which helps reduce waste.
Furthermore, virtual designers are often able to recommend eco-friendly and sustainable design choices, such as upcycled furniture, energy-efficient appliances, and low-impact materials. This can help you create a stylish, functional space without sacrificing environmental responsibility.
6. Faster Turnaround Time
Traditional interior design projects can take months, from initial consultations to final installations. But with virtual design, the timeline can often be shortened. The ability to work remotely and share ideas digitally allows virtual designers to work more efficiently, making it possible to get your design concept finalized faster.
Because you don’t need to schedule multiple in-person meetings or wait for design teams to physically visit your home, virtual design projects can be completed in a matter of weeks—sometimes even days, depending on the scope.
7. Collaboration with Your Existing Team
Already have contractors, painters, or furniture suppliers lined up? Virtual interior designers can collaborate seamlessly with the team you’ve already assembled. Whether you’re renovating or redecorating, a virtual designer can work within your existing structure and help you find complementary products or solutions that fit your vision.
This level of flexibility allows for a more integrated, holistic approach to your home’s design, which can be especially useful for large or complex projects.
8. Empowerment and Control Over Your Space
Hiring a virtual interior designer doesn’t mean you lose control of the design process. In fact, many people find that working with a virtual designer gives them more freedom to make decisions at their own pace. Since you’re communicating digitally, you have more time to reflect on design suggestions and make revisions as needed.
Virtual designers also tend to encourage more collaborative feedback loops, where you can adjust the designs or request changes as you see fit. This allows you to take a more active role in creating the space, resulting in a home that feels truly yours.
9. Variety of Services for Different Needs
Virtual interior designers can offer a wide range of services to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for a full home redesign, a single-room makeover, or just some professional advice on furniture placement or color schemes, virtual design services can accommodate all kinds of projects.
Additionally, many designers specialize in specific types of spaces, such as offices, kitchens, or bathrooms. This allows you to find the right expertise for your particular project.
10. No Pressure Environment
Lastly, working with a virtual interior designer can reduce the feeling of pressure often associated with traditional in-person consultations. Without the pressure of having a designer in your home, you can feel more comfortable exploring options, asking questions, and even rejecting ideas that don’t align with your vision. The process can feel much more relaxed, and ultimately, you’ll have a design that truly reflects your personality and lifestyle.
Conclusion: A Modern Take on Interior Design
The world of interior design has evolved, and virtual designers are at the forefront of this transformation. With greater flexibility, affordability, and access to a wider pool of talent, virtual interior design services offer a modern solution for homeowners who want to enhance their living spaces without the hassle and cost of traditional methods.
So, if you’ve been thinking about giving your home a makeover but don’t know where to start, consider hiring a virtual interior designer. You’ll be amazed at how easy, efficient, and enjoyable the process can be!
Would you consider hiring a virtual interior designer? What’s one design element you’d want to transform in your space? Let’s chat!
2025 Home Design Trends
The Biggest Home Design Trends of 2025: A Designer's Perspective
As an interior designer, staying ahead of trends is not just part of the job—it’s a passion. Every year brings fresh shifts in style, materiality, and mood, and 2025 is no exception. As I’m working with clients this year, I’m noticing a few major themes that are defining how we live and design our spaces. From sustainability to the integration of technology, here are the biggest home design trends I’m excited to see shaping the interiors of 2025.
1. Sustainable Luxury: Eco-Friendly Meets High-End
Sustainability has been a growing concern in design for years, but in 2025, it’s taking center stage like never before. Homeowners are increasingly prioritizing eco-conscious materials and design practices without compromising on luxury. Think organic textiles, reclaimed wood, and low-impact paints, paired with high-end, artisanal craftsmanship.
One trend I’m excited about is the rise of biophilic design. This isn’t a new concept, but it’s evolving in more sophisticated ways. We’re seeing intricate green walls, expansive windows that merge the outdoors with the indoors, and even natural stone that’s been sustainably sourced. The luxury of nature is being brought indoors in the most thoughtful, design-forward way.
As designers, we are looking for materials that not only look beautiful but also leave a minimal carbon footprint. Whether it’s furniture made from recycled or upcycled materials or finishes that don’t release harmful VOCs, it’s about making design choices that respect both the environment and the people who live in these spaces.
2. Maximalism Is Back, But With a Modern Twist
After years of minimalist design dominating the scene, we’re seeing a noticeable shift toward maximalism—but with a more curated, intentional approach. Gone are the days of clutter and chaos. Today’s maximalism is all about mixing bold patterns, vibrant colors, and unique textures in a way that feels cohesive rather than overwhelming.
One of my favorite elements of this trend is the return of layered textiles. Think rich velvet cushions, intricately patterned rugs, and plush throws, all layered to create a cozy yet dynamic space. The key is balance—using bold statements strategically to enhance the room without overloading it.
Another aspect of maximalism that’s taking off this year is statement lighting. From oversized chandeliers to avant-garde floor lamps, lighting is being used as a bold design feature in its own right, creating both drama and warmth.
3. Tech-Integrated Homes: Smart Design for the Future
The future of home design is undeniably tech-driven. Smart homes are no longer just about having a voice assistant or programmable lights. In 2025, technology is seamlessly woven into the fabric of the home, enhancing functionality while remaining aesthetically pleasing.
I’m seeing a huge push for invisible technology—things like smart mirrors that display news or weather without interrupting the design of a bathroom, or integrated sound systems that blend seamlessly into a living room’s architecture. Homeowners want their spaces to feel high-tech, but without the gadgets cluttering up the visual landscape.
There’s also been a rise in multifunctional spaces, made possible by technology. For example, a home office that can transform into a home theater with the push of a button, or a kitchen with countertops that double as interactive smart surfaces. As more people embrace flexible living, the need for versatile, adaptable spaces will continue to grow.
4. Earthy Hues and Natural Textures: Grounding Our Spaces
In a world that often feels chaotic, there’s a strong desire to create a sanctuary at home. This year, the palette is all about warmth and grounding tones. Earthy hues like terracotta, mustard yellow, soft browns, and deep greens are making their mark, bringing a sense of calm and connection to nature.
Texturally, we’re seeing a resurgence of natural materials like rattan, cork, and stone. These materials don’t just look beautiful—they evoke a tactile experience that helps us feel more present in the space. This trend is also about embracing imperfections. Handcrafted and organic textures are cherished, whether in furniture pieces, textiles, or even the walls themselves, which may feature raw plaster or exposed brick.
These natural elements work hand-in-hand with biophilic design, where we bring nature inside not just through plants but also through the very materials we use in our spaces. The goal is to create an environment that fosters relaxation and mindfulness.
5. The Revival of Vintage and Retro Styles
Vintage and retro design are making a huge comeback in 2025, but with a modern sensibility. Think of it as “old-school cool” meets contemporary living. Whether it’s mid-century modern furniture, art deco accents, or even the return of 1970s-style patterns and colors, we’re seeing a nostalgic embrace of the past, but in a way that feels fresh and current.
I particularly love the way vintage pieces are being incorporated into more modern settings. Instead of entire rooms that feel like they’re stuck in time, we’re mixing in vintage furniture as a statement or focal point, paired with modern design elements. It’s a great way to add personality and character to a space.
Additionally, retro-inspired colors like mustard yellow, avocado green, and burnt orange are making their way back into kitchens, living rooms, and even bedrooms. This is a playful nod to past decades, but with a sleek, updated twist.
6. Wellness-Centric Spaces: Creating Your Own Retreat
In 2025, our homes are becoming sanctuaries for self-care and well-being. The concept of the “wellness home” is more than just a trend—it’s a lifestyle. From dedicated meditation rooms to luxurious home spas, we’re designing spaces that cater to both mental and physical health.
One standout feature in this trend is the rise of home gyms and fitness studios. But rather than just adding a few dumbbells in a corner, homeowners are creating holistic fitness spaces that include yoga studios, soundproof rooms for meditation, and even infrared saunas.
We’re also seeing an increased interest in circadian lighting—lights that adjust throughout the day to mimic natural sunlight, promoting better sleep and overall health. Combine that with air purifiers, water filtration systems, and calming elements like aromatherapy diffusers, and you’ve got a home that not only looks great but feels amazing too.
7. The Return of Curves and Soft Lines
After years of sharp angles and minimalist lines dominating design, 2025 is embracing curves and organic forms. From rounded sofas to curvaceous coffee tables, these softer shapes are creating a more inviting, relaxed feel in living spaces.
Curves aren’t just for furniture. We’re seeing them in architecture as well—arched doorways, round windows, and even curved walls that break away from traditional, boxy room designs. This trend brings a sense of comfort and warmth to spaces, making them feel more organic and human-centered.
As an interior designer, I’m always excited to see how these trends evolve throughout the year. The key to embracing any design trend is to make it work for your own space and lifestyle. 2025 is all about balance—whether it’s balancing luxury with sustainability, or bold design with a sense of calm. Whatever your style, there’s never been a better time to bring fresh, meaningful design into your home. Happy decorating!
DIY “ Built In” Fireplace Shelving
When we first bought our home in April of 2023, my brain couldn’t turn off. I was so excited to finally have a home with good bones, that we’d potentially be raising our family in for a long time to come. So many ideas flooded in to my mind every night when I laid down to go to bed. My Pinterest exploded with new pins, my google search basically consisted of DIY project guides and renovation inspirations. Although we would be putting the majority of our yearly budget in to clearing and repairing our backyard for our one year old and our dog to run around, I knew I wanted to do something special in our living room. While there are few things I don’t LOVE about this house, we do not have a dedicated playroom. Families have lived for centuries without them, even though social media makes every mother these days feel inadequate without one. Homes are meant to be shared, and of course as a designer I harp on the aesthetics, I also want my home to be lived in and enjoyed by all members of my home. No room is off limits for my son.
Long story short, our very average sized living room quickly turned in to a mess of toy piles upon moving in and it was STRESSING ME OUT! Our beautiful floor to ceiling fireplace deserved to be a show stopper and currently was overwhelmed by chaos. Back to my Pinterest board I went…
I have always wanted a large wall of built ins framing a beautiful fireplace where my family and I can cozy up in the winter. And coming from Florida to North Carolina, we may actually USE this fireplace and have a “real” winter.
As I mentioned, budget would be tight this year for interior renovations and decor. Thankfully my mom and I were both born with the “how hard can it be” gene and have become quite handy with a saw and drill. So we got to planning. We developed an idea for some easy built-ins to surround our fireplace, but that would only reach about 4 feet high. Floor to ceiling was a little more that we were willing to take on for this project.
Using a sturdy 1” plywood, we created three levels of shelving. Because I wanted to continue the built-in look, I also created a base for the shelves using 2x4’s so that I could reapply the original baseboards around the bottom. We used a 3” wood screw to secure everything to ensure that it was stable. We also secured each board to the wall as we went because we have a toddler that climbs everything.
Once the shelving was built, I went back in with wood filler to fill any screw holes that were showing and then caulked all of the seams. Again, just trying to achieve that seamless (built-in) look. Finally, I painted the shelving to match the walls using the Behr Marquee paint in the color swiss coffee. Most people argue that its full strength coloring is too yellow, but I honestly LOVE IT in our house just as is. I find it to be very warm and complimentary to our space. I should also note we do not have very bright natural light in our space so the yellow is not going to show through like in would in a space that has strong lighting or tall windows.
Completed shelving!
This is immediately after completing the shelves, I had to decorate them literally the second the paint dried to host our friends for a fall cook book party. But I am in love with them.
All in all, I am extremely happy with the shelves and they have held up super well! I love decorating them seasonally and they’ve been very easy to clean and organize. I did purchase these massive baskets from The Container Store to neatly house all of my sons miscellaneous toys, and then have one shelf dedicated to his wood toys and things he is often fussing with like his puzzles and stacking blocks from Loveevery.
The only consideration I’m still toying with is adding in a “divider” piece in the middle shelf. For two reasons - 1. I think it would give the shelving a unique look and would also serve as a decor separation. 2. I think the extra support would serve as a great column for heavier pieces and give the shelves an extra layer or strength.
I love my shelves, and especially since the fireplace was painted I feel like this space is fully bringing my original vision for our living room to life.
Hope you enjoyed this breakdown of this project!