
Sarah Richardson
hello, friends!
I’m glad to be back blogging. I missed a few days while my son and I recovered from the flu — yes, the flu in the summertime. While I was resting, I spent time browsing for inspiration and discovered several rooms by two of my favorite TV designers, Sarah Richardson and Tommy Smythe. I wanted to share a few favorites and talk about what makes them so appealing.
The children’s bunk room above grabbed my attention immediately. The bold green striped rug is playful and energetic; a wide-striped rug like this can completely define a small space. Beyond the rug, the built-in bunk beds are a smart use of limited square footage. Their clean lines keep the room feeling tidy and intentional.
Practical details make this design work: the simple bedding approach keeps the beds easy to make, the built-in reading lights provide cozy task lighting, and the hanging bucket adds a whimsical, useful touch. The maps on the walls add personality and spark imagination — perfect for a kids’ room.

Sarah Richardson
This entryway is another favorite. I love the simple bench and the statement light fixture, but what stands out most is the natural wood ceiling. It brings warmth and balance to a space with tile floors, making the entry feel welcoming rather than cold.

Sarah Richardson
The dining room above demonstrates the power of wallpaper. I remember rooms in my childhood home that were papered — they felt quieter and more intimate because of the added texture. Today’s wallpapers are easier to install and remove than older varieties, so don’t let the idea of future removal stop you from using something you love.
In this dining room, the wallpaper is the defining element. It provides pattern and depth, making the space feel finished and cohesive. Wallpaper can be the bold move that elevates a room from ordinary to memorable.

Style At Home
I’m also a big fan of grasscloth. Its subtle texture brings warmth and sophistication to a space. I had it in a previous home, and though it eventually needed replacing, I still love how it transforms a room. The bedroom shown here feels cozy and layered thanks to the grasscloth walls, and it pairs beautifully with the kitchen designed by Tommy Smythe.

Tommy has a quote about design that really resonates with me: layering brings rooms to life. Adding texture, pattern, and a mix of new and worn pieces creates balance and interest. Reading his words reminded me to keep building layers in my own home — now that the kitchen is finished, I’m excited to move on to other rooms.

Tommy Smythe
Design inspiration can come from small details: a rug that anchors a room, a ceiling that warms an entry, wallpaper that creates atmosphere, or a textured wallcovering that invites touch. These rooms from Sarah Richardson and Tommy Smythe are full of smart choices and thoughtful layers. They remind me that thoughtful details and bolder moments both have a place in creating comfortable, personal interiors.