Category: HOME DECOR

How to Upgrade Your Staircase: Styles, Trends & a Sweet Story of Giving New Life to an Old School Design

Taneesha WoodsLeave a comment

Staircases aren’t just a way to get from one floor to the next—they’re one of the most underrated focal points in a home. Whether you live in a modern build or a charming older house, upgrading your staircase can instantly elevate your home’s style, brighten the space, and make it feel more intentional. If your staircase still looks like it came straight out of a 90s catalog or an older traditional home, don’t worry—there are countless ways to refresh it without a full renovation.

Let’s walk through some modern staircase trends, design ideas, and even a cute little story about bringing new life to an old school staircase.

Why Upgrade Your Staircase?

Staircases sit right at the heart of your home—usually along the entryway or main living area—so even small changes can provide a huge visual payoff. Upgrading your staircase can:

  • Improve the overall look of your home
  • Increase resale value
  • Create a safer, more functional layout
  • Enhance lighting and airiness
  • Tie together your decor styles

Whether you want something bold or simple, there’s a staircase refresh that fits your budget.

Top Staircase Upgrade Ideas

1. Update the Railing

Your railing makes the biggest impact—think of it like jewelry for your stairs.

Trendy railing styles to consider:

  • Sleek black metal rails for a modern or industrial look
  • Chunky wood rails for farmhouse and rustic homes
  • Cable railings for a minimalist, open-concept feel
  • Glass panels to maximize natural light and create a clean, airy effect

Swapping out a dated wooden banister for a streamlined modern design can change the whole personality of your home.

2. Refresh the Stair Treads

If your treads are scratched or outdated, giving them a makeover can instantly lift the space.

Options:

  • Sanding and re-staining to breathe new life into real wood
  • Painting treads two-toned (white risers + wood steps is still a beloved combo)
  • Installing stair runners for comfort, traction, and a pop of pattern

Trend to watch: Bold patterned runners in earthy tones—think modern geometric prints or subtle Moroccan-inspired designs.

3. Paint the Staircase

Paint is one of the easiest and most budget-friendly upgrades.

Trending paint looks:

  • All-black staircases for a dramatic, modern edge
  • All-white with light wood accents for a Scandinavian feel
  • Soft sage or powder blue risers for a calming, cottage-inspired look
  • Ombre stair risers (fun option for kids’ areas!)

4. Upgrade the Newel Posts

The newel post is the anchor of your staircase—and often one of the first things guests notice.

You can:

  • Swap an old square post for a bold modern one
  • Add decorative trim to elevate classic styles
  • Paint it in an accent color
  • Choose a chunky craftsman-style post to add character

5. Add Lighting for a Dramatic Effect

Lighting can turn a staircase into an architectural moment.

Consider:

  • LED strip lights under each tread
  • Statement pendant lighting above the landing
  • Wall sconces along the staircase wall
  • Recessed lighting for subtle ambiance

Lighting not only looks beautiful but also increases safety—win-win.

Staircase Design Styles to Inspire Your Makeover

Here are a few trending styles that can help you narrow down your look:

Modern Minimalist

  • Thin black metal railing
  • Floating staircase design or open risers
  • Natural wood treads
  • Clean, simple lines

Farmhouse Fresh

  • White risers + stained oak treads
  • Thick wood handrails
  • Traditional spindles
  • Cozy neutral runners

Industrial Loft

  • Matte black steel railing
  • Dark wood tones
  • Exposed hardware
  • Brick accent wall nearby (if you’re lucky!)

Coastal Calm

  • Light wood tones
  • White balusters
  • A soft blue or gray runner
  • Natural fiber accents

Vintage Revival

  • Patterned tile risers
  • Restored wood banisters
  • Ornate handrails and posts
  • A warm, nostalgic palette

A Cute Story: The Old School Staircase That Got a Second Chance

A friend of mine once moved into a 1950s home with a staircase that looked like it had been frozen in time—thick orange varnish, worn-out carpet on every step, and a railing that wobbled if you looked at it too hard. Her kids affectionately called it “The Grandpa Staircase” because it “looked old and tired, like it needed a nap.”

She wanted to update it but wasn’t ready for a full remodel. So she went step by step—literally.

First, she peeled off the carpet (which, to everyone’s surprise, had another layer of older carpet underneath). Then she painted the risers white, stained the treads a warm walnut, and added a black metal railing she found on sale. Finally, she added a soft gray runner with tiny diamond patterns that reminded her of the original charm of the home.

When her kids came home from school the day she finished, they gasped and said, “Mom! Grandpa Staircase woke up!”

And honestly? It truly had. The space felt brighter, younger, and full of personality—but still honored the original character of the home. Sometimes the best upgrades are the ones that respect the past while making the present feel fresh again.

Your Staircase Is a Style Moment Waiting to Happen

Whether your staircase is old-school, cookie-cutter, or just a little forgotten, you can turn it into a stunning focal point with the right upgrades. From railings to runners to lighting and paint, small changes can transform the entire feel of your home.

So if your staircase is looking a little sleepy… maybe it’s time to help it “wake up” too.

Mixing Colors in Your Home: How to Do It, Why It Works, and 2025’s Hottest Color Trends

Taneesha WoodsLeave a comment

Color is one of the most powerful tools in home design. It influences mood, sets the tone of a room, and reflects your personality more than almost anything else in your décor. But when it comes to mixing colors, many people hesitate—worried that combining too many hues might look “too busy” or “off balance.”

The truth? Mixing colors is not only okay… it’s encouraged. The key is knowing how to blend them with intention.

Why Do People Mix More Than One Color in a Room?

Most rooms aren’t defined by a single note—they’re symphonies. Mixing colors allows you to:

1. Create Visual Interest

Using multiple colors makes a room feel more dynamic. Even neutral lovers can benefit from adding small pops of color to prevent a space from feeling flat.

2. Reflect Your Personality

No two homes (or people!) are the same. Mixing colors lets you tell your story—whether you want bold, playful energy or soft, calming vibes.

3. Define Different Zones

Open-concept layouts especially benefit from mixed colors. Each section can have its own unique mood while still maintaining overall cohesion.

4. Add Depth and Dimension

Color layering—light, medium, and dark tones—creates depth that makes a room feel complete and professionally designed.

Is It Okay to Mix Different Colors?

Absolutely. The fear of “too much color” usually comes from not understanding how colors relate to one another. When mixed thoughtfully, color creates harmony—even in spaces with bold or unexpected pairings.

The secret lies in using intentional combinations, consistent undertones, and a balanced ratio (for example, the 60-30-10 rule: 60% main color, 30% secondary color, 10% accent color).

Perfect Color Combinations That Always Work

Here are some tried-and-true color palettes for 2025 and beyond:

1. Navy + Mustard + Cream

Sophisticated yet warm, this trio flows beautifully in living rooms and dining spaces.

2. Sage Green + Terracotta + Natural Wood

Earthy, modern, and perfect for creating a calm sanctuary.

3. Charcoal Gray + Soft Blush + White

A gentle but elevated combination often found in minimalist or Scandinavian homes.

4. Forest Green + Gold + Matte Black

Bold, moody, and luxe—ideal for offices, bedrooms, and accent walls.

5. Warm Beige + Olive + Burnt Orange

A modern twist on neutrals that fits perfectly with 2025’s earthy, grounded aesthetics.

6. Deep Plum + Champagne + Warm Gray

Elegant and unexpected—great for bedrooms or formal spaces.

How to Mix Colors Successfully

1. Start With One Anchor Color

Choose your dominant shade first—something that supports the feeling you want (calming, energizing, cozy, airy, etc.).

2. Choose Complementary or Analogous Colors

  • Complementary colors sit opposite each other on the color wheel (blue + orange, yellow + purple).
  • Analogous colors sit next to one another (greens + blues, oranges + reds).
    Either approach works beautifully.

3. Follow the 60-30-10 Rule

  • 60% main color (walls, larger furniture)
  • 30% secondary color (rugs, curtains, bedding)
  • 10% accent color (decor, flowers, pillows)

This creates natural balance.

4. Use Patterns to Tie Colors Together

Throw pillows, rugs, art prints, and blankets are your best friends here. A patterned item containing multiple colors helps everything make sense visually.

5. Pay Attention to Undertones

Mixing cool undertones and warm undertones can work, but it requires intention. If you’re new to color mixing, stick to one undertone family.

6. Bring in Natural Elements

Wood, greenery, stone, and metals act as neutral “buffers” that help different colors blend effortlessly.

Popular Color Trends for 2025

2025 is full of rich, grounded, and expressive tones. Here’s what’s showing up everywhere in design:

1. Earth-Rooted Neutrals

Warm beige, clay, brown, and tan are replacing stark whites and grays.

2. Moss & Olive Greens

Nature continues to inspire interior color choices, and greens remain reigning favorites—especially muted moss and deep olive.

3. Sunset-Inspired Colors

Muted coral, terracotta, apricot, and dusty rose remain strong for 2025—warm, nostalgic, and comforting.

4. Midnight Blues & Moody Charcoal

Deep, dramatic colors create cozy high-end vibes.

5. Soft Lavender & Dusty Plum

Romantic, unexpected purples are trending for bedrooms and accent walls.

6. Black as an Accent

Black is still the go-to for grounding a space. A single black element adds structure and sophistication.

Final Thoughts

Mixing colors isn’t about following strict rules—it’s about creating a space that feels right for you. Whether you prefer bold contrasts or soft harmonious tones, the right color combinations can elevate any room and transform your home into a reflection of your personality.

Holiday Style Trends Revamped: What’s New for 2025

Taneesha WoodsLeave a comment

1. Modern Nostalgia Is Everywhere

This season is leaning into “festive nostalgia”. Designers are pulling from mid-century, ’50s, and vintage Christmas aesthetics, but updating them in chic, modern ways. (At Home)

  • Think retro glass ornaments, mercury glass, classic Santa and reindeer figurines. (Redesign Daily)
  • Velvet ribbons, heirloom-style baubles, and warm candlelight give it an old-world charm. (Buy Wall Art)
  • But it’s not just about copying the past — it’s about layering vintage items with modern pieces like brass or rose-gold metals for a balanced, story-rich look. (Spacejoy)

This mix of old and new creates homes that feel grown-in and deeply personal.

2. Rich, Moody Color Palettes

Say goodbye to bright fire-engine red. This year’s trending colors are deeper, more sophisticated:

  • Burgundy is having a major moment — designers even call it “the new red.” (At Home)
  • Jewel tones like emerald green, navy, plum, and forest green are popular, giving holiday spaces a richer, more luxurious feel. (Spacejoy)
  • Mixed metallics — subtle shimmer from brass, antique copper, gold, or rose gold — add warmth and elegance without being too shiny or gaudy. (At Home)

3. Heritage Textures & Layering

Texture is a big deal this year. Rather than flat or minimalist decor, the 2025 holiday aesthetic layers rich materials and tactile elements. (At Home)

  • Cozy fabrics: chunky knits, faux fur, velvet ribbons, and cable-knit throws bring warmth. (At Home)
  • Natural materials: wooden bead garlands, dried orange slices, felt ornaments, and fresh or faux greenery evoke a more organic, homespun feeling. (WORK LAUGH NEST)
  • Heirloom textiles: embroidered linens, vintage tablecloths, and handcrafted pieces give that “lived-in, passed-down” charm. (Yahoo Shopping)

4. Retro Lighting & Decorative Figures

Classic holiday icons are back — but with a twist:

  • Bubble lights, large vintage-style bulbs, and retro lighting designs are making a comeback. (The Cameron Team)
  • Figurines like ceramic Santas, reindeer, and nativity scenes are being used more, especially in settings styled like old-fashioned Christmas villages. (Yahoo Style)
  • These throwback pieces pair beautifully with modern accents like clean-lined candleholders or minimalist displays.

5. Sustainable, Handmade, and Personalized Decor

There’s a strong move toward thoughtful, meaningful decorating:

  • People are embracing DIY and handcrafted pieces — homemade garlands (popcorn, berries, dried fruit), hand-painted figurines, even family keepsakes. (Yahoo Style)
  • Natural and organic materials are trending, not just for look but for sustainability. (WORK LAUGH NEST)
  • Decorating is more personal: using vintage ornaments passed down, mixing old and new, and curating a look that tells a story. (Yahoo Shopping)

6. Maximalism Meets Minimalism

Interestingly, both ends of the spectrum are trending — but in new ways:

  • Maximalist: Designing with abundance — lots of color, layers, pattern, and personality. Think boutique-tree sculptures, overflowing garlands, rich textures. (Aisy Art)
  • Minimalist: Clean lines, curated pieces, and fewer but more meaningful accents. This isn’t bare-bones — it’s a calm, intentional holiday. (Civil Scoops)
  • The key is balance: choose what feels personal to you, whether that’s loud and nostalgic or serene and refined.

7. Ralph Lauren / Americana Regal Holiday

A notably luxe yet nostalgic trend is the so-called “Ralph Lauren Christmas” aesthetic. (ELLE)

  • Plaid and tartan patterns, especially in moody tones. (ELLE)
  • Rich textures: velvet, leather, burnished brass. (ELLE)
  • Heirloom and monogrammed items: think quality over trend, with pieces that feel like they could be keepsakes. (Country Living)

How to Bring These Trends Into Your Home

If you want to tap into these fresh-but-retro holiday trends, here are some actionable ideas + decor picks:

  • Mix your vintage ornaments (or thrifted finds) with new ones in jewel tones or metallics.
  • Layer textures: wrap plaids or velvet ribbons on garlands, drape knit throws, and add wood or felt accents.
  • Lean into natural decor: string dried orange slices, bring in real or faux cedar/evergreen sprigs, use wooden bead garlands.
  • Use throwback light sources: try retro bulb garlands, bubble lights, or vintage-inspired wall art.
  • Curate your story: display family heirlooms, DIY items, or handmade ornaments alongside new pieces.

Product Ideas to Capture the Trend

Here are a few decor pieces that align with this blend of throwback + modern:

Why These Trends Are Resonating Now

  1. Comfort Meets Creativity: Many people are drawn to nostalgic pieces because they evoke warmth, memory, and heritage. But there’s also a desire for personalization — to make holiday decor say something about you. (Yahoo Shopping)
  2. Sustainability & Longevity: Vintage or heirloom finds, handcrafted ornaments, and natural materials feel more sustainable than fast, throwaway decor. (Aisy Art)
  3. Expression Over Uniformity: Instead of matching everything, 2025 is about layering and storytelling. Your decor can be eclectic and meaningful. (WORK LAUGH NEST)
  4. Balancing Trends: With both maximalism and minimalism in play, there’s room for different tastes — whether you want all-out holiday glam or a quiet, refined Christmas.

Final Thoughts

This holiday season is all about bringing together the past and present:

  • Throwback charm (vintage figurines, retro lighting, heirloom textiles)
  • Modern elegance (jewel tones, soft metallics, layered textures)
  • Personal storytelling (DIY touches, family keepsakes, curated color palettes)

It’s a sentimental and stylish moment — one where your holiday decor doesn’t just decorate, but reflects. Whether you lean into bold nostalgia or calm sophistication, mixing old and new will help you create a look that’s meaningful, warm, and very now.

Do You Think About Architecture When You Choose Your Home? Here’s Why You Should

Taneesha WoodsLeave a comment

When most of us think about choosing a home, our minds go straight to the essentials: location, number of bedrooms, school districts, maybe even the paint colors or the size of the backyard. But there’s something far deeper that shapes how a home feels long before you ever place your first piece of furniture—and that’s architecture.

Architecture isn’t just the exterior look of a home. It’s the structure, the intention, the flow, and the soul behind the walls. And whether you notice it or not, it impacts your daily life in more ways than you may realize.

What Exactly Is Architecture?

Architecture is the art and science of designing buildings and spaces. It shapes not only how a structure looks, but how it functions. It determines:

  • How sunlight reaches your living room
  • Whether your kitchen feels cramped or inviting
  • How air flows through your home
  • The mood of a space before you ever decorate it
  • How well a home supports your lifestyle

Good architecture blends beauty, practicality, and human experience. It creates spaces that feel natural, intuitive, and comforting.

Why Architecture Matters in Everyday Living

Even if you don’t consider yourself someone who “thinks about architecture,” you experience the effects of good (or bad!) design daily.

1. It shapes how you use your home

An open floor plan encourages social connection; a closed-off one creates privacy and separation. Tall ceilings can make you feel free and energized, while low ceilings feel cozy—or sometimes constricting.

2. It impacts your mood

Natural light, room proportions, and spatial flow all affect emotional well-being. A well-lit, thoughtfully designed space just feels good to walk into.

3. It affects your comfort

Everything from window placement to insulation to the orientation of the building affects how warm, cool, loud, or peaceful your home is.

4. It influences how you decorate

Your style may be boho, minimalist, or farmhouse—but architecture sets the stage. Certain styles shine brightest in certain structures.

Do You Think About Architecture When Choosing a Home?

Many people choose a home based on what’s visible on the surface—paint colors, flooring, countertops. Yet these are the easiest things to change.

Architecture, on the other hand, is foundational.

When I think about choosing a home, architecture is one of the first things that comes to mind. I look at:

  • The flow of the layout
  • The natural light
  • The ceiling height
  • The structure of each room
  • The style of the home and how it complements my aesthetic

Why? Because architecture determines the long-term comfort and personality of the home. Paint can be changed, but structural limitations—like awkward room shapes or poor layout—often cannot.

How Important Is It to Choose a Home Based on Architectural Style?

Very important—especially if you value cohesiveness in your decor and lifestyle.

Your architectural style influences:

  • How you’ll furnish the home
  • Whether your decor style feels natural or forced
  • The sense of identity your home carries
  • How guests experience the space
  • Your long-term satisfaction

A modern home with sleek lines won’t pair naturally with ornate Victorian furniture. A rustic farmhouse may feel odd with ultramodern décor unless you intentionally blend styles. When your architectural style aligns with your design preferences, creating a cohesive, beautiful home becomes effortless.

Why Architecture Should Matter to You

Architecture is more than aesthetics—it’s a reflection of how you live.

It tells a story.
It creates an atmosphere.
It shapes your daily rituals without you even realizing it.

When you choose a home aligned with the architectural qualities you love, everything else—from decorating to daily living—feels more natural and enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

So, do you think about architecture when choosing a home?

If you haven’t before, now is the perfect time to start. Architecture gives your home its identity long before you bring in the décor. It affects how you feel, how you function, and how you express your personal style.

And in a world where we spend more time at home than ever before, choosing a home with architecture that speaks to you is not just important—it’s essential.

Pictures of Yourself: Trendy Home Accent or Cocky Centerpiece?

Taneesha WoodsLeave a comment

When it comes to home décor, few topics spark as much curiosity—and quiet debate—as displaying pictures of yourself around your home. Is it a stylish, modern expression of identity? Or a borderline boastful choice? Surprisingly, the answer lies somewhere in between. Let’s break down the trend, the psychology, and the history behind self-portraits—and explore how to style them tastefully in your home.

A Trendy Choice or a Cocky Centerpiece?

In today’s design world, personal touches are everything. Home décor has shifted from “catalog perfect” to “story-driven,” meaning the pieces you display should represent who you are, what you love, and the life you’re building. So yes—pictures of yourself can absolutely be trendy, as long as they’re intentional and thoughtfully placed.

The “cocky” label usually only applies when photos feel overwhelming or overly staged. A home filled wall-to-wall with glam shots might raise eyebrows—but a curated selection of personal photos? Those read as confident, expressive, and stylish.

Why Do People Put Up Pictures of Themselves?

There are several reasons, and most of them are more meaningful than people realize:

1. Identity & Self-Expression

Your home is a reflection of your personality. Displaying photos of yourself—whether solo, in moments of celebration, or simply living life—adds authenticity to your space.

2. Memory Preservation

Photos capture milestones: graduations, vacations, birthdays, achievements. Putting those memories where you can see them keeps joy close and serves as a daily reminder of how far you’ve come.

3. Emotional Boost

There’s real psychology behind it. Seeing photos where you look happy, confident, or in your element can enhance self-esteem and create a positive atmosphere.

4. Storytelling

Guests learn about your life through what you display. A well-chosen portrait can say more about your personality than any piece of store-bought art.

The History of Self-Portraits

Self-portraiture isn’t new—it’s one of the oldest forms of personal expression.

Ancient Civilizations

From Egyptian pharaohs to Roman emperors, rulers commissioned portraits to document their reigns and mark their place in history.

The Renaissance Boom

Artists like Albrecht Dürer and Rembrandt elevated the self-portrait into a celebrated art form, using it as a way to study identity, technique, and emotion.

Photography Changes Everything

When photography became mainstream in the 19th century, everyday people could finally create personal portraits. What was once reserved for the elite became a household tradition.

The Age of Selfies

Today, we’ve taken the self-portrait to another level—quick, accessible, and expressive. And as selfies have become part of our culture, so have personal photos in our homes.

Self-portraits have always represented confidence, existence, memory, and belonging. Displaying your own images is simply a modern continuation of a timeless tradition.

Why Having Pictures of Yourself in Your Home Matters

If you’re questioning whether you should display photos of yourself, the answer is: yes—thoughtfully.

They Create a Sense of Belonging

Especially if you live alone or spend a lot of time away from family, self-portraits bring warmth and personal presence into your space.

They Help Celebrate Growth

Your home should remind you of your journey. A gallery wall of your milestones creates daily affirmation.

They Make a House Feel Like Yours

Furniture fills a room. Personal images make it home.

Where to Place Pictures of Yourself to Stay Stylish and Trendy

Placement is everything. Here’s how to keep it chic:

1. Hallways & Transitional Spaces

These areas are perfect for a curated gallery wall. They feel personal without becoming the main focal point of a room.

2. Home Office or Creative Space

A great spot for professional portraits or photos that motivate you. Perfect for boosting creativity and confidence.

3. Bedroom Spaces

Soft, intimate photos work beautifully here—think vacation shots, candid moments, or lifestyle images.

4. Entryway Console

One or two framed prints can create a welcoming touch without feeling overwhelming.

5. On a Bookshelf or Floating Shelf

Integrate smaller framed photos among books, plants, and décor pieces for a modern layered look.

6. Mixed Media Gallery Walls

Pair a portrait of yourself with art, typography, or family photos. It creates visual balance and prevents the “it’s all about me” look.

Where Not to Put Them

  • Above the couch—unless it’s a large, artistic portrait
  • Dining room walls (feels too formal for self-images)
  • Every single room (sparingly is more stylish)

Final Thoughts

Displaying pictures of yourself in your home isn’t cocky—it’s expressive. It’s personal. It’s historically rooted. And when done with intention, it’s one of the trendiest ways to tell your story through your décor.

Your home is your space. You deserve to see yourself reflected in it.