Rachel Self

Rachel is passionate about helping readers transform their spaces with thoughtful design tips and ideas. With her experience in a variety of home decor styles, she provides inspiration and practical advice to suit any taste or preference.

Cohesive Style Creation 101

Crafting a cohesive interior style means designing spaces that feel unified, intentional, and reflective of your personal aesthetic. Whether you prefer the sleek simplicity of modern decor or the warmth of rustic charm, a clear style and theme can guide…

Textures and Materials 101

A vibrant, beautifully styled interior living space showcasing a balanced mix of textures and materials. Features a rough-hewn wooden coffee table, jewel-toned velvet cushions in deep teal and golden ochre, a shiny brass or polished chrome lamp, and a warm-toned brick or natural stone accent wall.

Texture and material selection play a pivotal role in interior design, influencing both the look and feel of a space. Designers often layer different textures and finishes to transform a flat, cookie-cutter room into one brimming with personality, depth, and…

Space Planning 101

Space planning and negative space are core interior design principles that shape both functionality and aesthetics. Space planning refers to the strategic arrangement of furniture, fixtures, and zones within an interior to serve its intended purpose efficiently while looking cohesive.…

Balance and Proportion 101

Balance and proportion are fundamental principles of interior design that create harmony in a space. Balance refers to the artful distribution of visual weight in a space to create a sense of stability​. In other words, when the elements in…

Design Styles 101

Understanding design styles is a cornerstone of home decorating. It helps you make cohesive choices, invest wisely in furnishings, and create a space that truly feels like home. In this guide, we’ll explore timeless vs. trending design styles, how they’ve…

Design Tip: Go Bold with Color

living room design. colors include navy blue, mustard yellow, coral pink, and white.

Color has the power to transform a space, infusing it with personality, energy, and emotion. Vibrant hues for your walls, furniture, and accessories create an energetic atmosphere that reflects your personality. This approach to home decor allows for an expressive…

Design Tip: Make a Plan

wooden miniature houses, each unique in design and color

Planning is the cornerstone of any successful home decor project. Creating a detailed plan helps to establish clear goals and a cohesive vision, avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring that every element works harmoniously. Whether it’s a single room makeover or a…