I adore our place in Brooklyn (check out the guest room above), and having been here for nearly eight years, I’m quite acquainted with all the little spaces and corners. This next line feels super forty-something, but: during the fall, I’m thrilled to tidy up our closets, declutter the storage space, and introduce a few decorative surprises. Here are five suggestions (and I’d love to know your current design preferences!)…
Photo by Read McKendree, styling by Mieke Ten Haave.
1. Place artwork in unconventional spots. Isn’t that framed illustration beneath the window fantastic? I enjoy how art can be hung high, low, or even around corners…
Photo by Wing Ho.
…and on the backs of doors, like in David and Wendy Coggins’s residence in Minnesota.
Photo by Owen Gale.
2. Color our staircase. At the moment, our stairs and hallway are painted white, which is okay but a bit uninspired. Even if we don’t go all out like the townhouse above, perhaps we could paint the banister a soft pink or deep blue.
Photo by Belle Morizio, styling by Julia Stevens.
3. Show off book covers. I had forgotten how attractive it looks when a few books are arranged with their covers facing out on a shelf, especially this John Currin cover.
Photo by Jessica Burke.
Just a note: Our house doesn’t have a suitable window for this, but isn’t this bookshelf beautiful?!
Photo by Alpha Smoot for Domino, design by Amanda Jane Jones.
4. Revitalize the artwork. Two years ago, I gave our living room a ‘fakeover’ by rearranging two paintings, and I was astounded by how different the space felt. I’m also eager to incorporate a few pieces from emerging artists and small shops, like this and this and this and this.
Photo by Chris Horwood.
5. Introduce some brown. My friend’s top color is brown, and she says she’s been teased for it throughout her life. But now it’s her time to shine because this fall, brown is trending in fashion and decor. I’m inspired to add some brown into our space – perhaps a blanket? Or a pillow?
What about you? What design elements are capturing your interest lately? I’d love to know… Remember that reader’s introvert nook?
P.S. Check out all the Cup of Jo house tours, including our Brooklyn abode.
(Top photo of our guest room by Kate Jordan, styling by Oliver Cano for Cup of Jo.)
# 5 Inspiring Home Decor Ideas from Cup of Jo
When it comes to home decor, achieving the right equilibrium between style, comfort, and personality can be daunting. Fortunately, the widely-loved lifestyle blog *Cup of Jo* has consistently been a fountain of inspiration for those aiming to craft beautiful, inviting atmospheres. With its emphasis on real homes and practical tips, *Cup of Jo* provides a wealth of ideas that are both attainable and chic. Here are five captivating home decor concepts from *Cup of Jo* that can help you metamorphose your living area into a snug, welcoming retreat.
## 1. **Harness the Impact of Paint**
One of the most impactful and budget-friendly methods to revitalize a space is to alter the wall color. *Cup of Jo* frequently underscores paint’s transformative effects in its home showcases, illustrating how a different shade can completely change a room’s ambiance. Whether you select a bold, statement-making color like deep navy or a calming, gentle hue like blush pink, paint can establish the atmosphere for the entire environment.
For instance, in one highlighted home, a dark green accent wall in the lounge fostered a cozy, enveloping feel, while the rest of the space remained airy with neutral shades. The interplay between the dark and light components added richness and intrigue to the room, proving that a mere layer of paint can yield significant results.
**Tip:** Don’t hesitate to try out colors! If you’re anxious about committing to a striking tone, begin with an accent wall or choose a smaller space, like a bathroom or hallway, to gauge how it feels.
## 2. **Blend High and Low**
A key aspect of *Cup of Jo*’s decor philosophy is the practice of mixing high-end items with budget-friendly finds. This strategy not only makes decorating more approachable but also infuses character and individuality into a space. By merging vintage treasures, DIY endeavors, and investment pieces, you can curate a home that feels distinctive and personalized.
In one *Cup of Jo* tour, a family’s living area showcased a blend of IKEA furnishings, thrift shop treasures, and a designer rug splurge. The outcome was a space that appeared both fashionable and homey, with each item enhancing the overall theme.
**Tip:** When marrying high and low, prioritize investing in essential pieces that will endure, like a durable couch or a standout lighting fixture. Then, complement these with more affordable accents, like throw pillows, artwork, and decorative items.
## 3. **Layer Textures for Coziness and Comfort**
Crafting a warm, inviting environment revolves around layering different textures. *Cup of Jo* regularly highlights the significance of integrating varied materials and finishes to add richness and warmth to a room. Envision soft fabrics, natural wood, and tactile elements that encourage touch.
In one showcased bedroom, a combination of linen sheets, a chunky knit blanket, and a soft sheepskin rug established a tranquil and cozy sanctuary. The variety of textures imparted a luxurious yet accessible feel, illustrating that layering is vital for achieving a snug ambiance.
**Tip:** To create a layered appearance, start with a neutral foundation and gradually incorporate various textures through fabrics, rugs, and accessories. Don’t shy away from mixing materials like wool, leather, and metal for an exciting, multi-dimensional effect.
## 4. **Personalize with Art and Photography**
Your space should embody your personality and experiences, and one of the finest approaches to achieve this is via art and photography. *Cup of Jo* often showcases residences adorned with a blend of personal snapshots, original artworks, and cherished memorabilia. This not only enriches visual appeal but also narrates a story about its inhabitants.
In one featured home, a gallery wall in the dining area displayed a combination of family portraits, travel keepsakes, and abstract art pieces. The diverse arrangement added a personal flair to the room and sparked conversations among guests.
**Tip:** When assembling a gallery wall, don’t stress about achieving perfect uniformity. The charm of a gallery wall lies in its eclectic nature, so feel free to mix various frame styles, dimensions, and colors. Start by laying out your design on the floor before hanging anything on the wall to ensure satisfaction with the arrangement.
## 5. **Integrate Greenery for a Breath of Freshness**
Plants are an easy yet impactful way to infuse vitality and energy into your home. *Cup of Jo* frequently features homes brimming with greenery, from towering fiddle leaf figs to small succulents. Not only do plants provide a splash of color, but they also enhance air quality and foster a soothing atmosphere.
In one *Cup of Jo* home tour, an assortment of potted plants was strategically positioned throughout the living space, introducing a
