design tips Archives - Emily A. Clark

3 Christmas Homes I Love

Nov92018

I know it’s still a little early to get out the Christmas decorations. (Or is it?? I saw an entire neighborhood decorated on my way home last night. . . ) But, I do like to start prepping now by studying some of my favorite holiday homes and making mental notes of new ideas I want to include in our decor. These are three of my current favorites, chosen for their simple, classic and cozy approach to Christmas.

Home #1: Benjamin and Gen Sohr, founders of Pencil and Paper Co., featured in Southern Living.

Details to note: A strong red, white and blue mix throughout; touches of boxwood in garlands, wreaths and topiaries; pattern on pattern; classic Christmas decor (i.e., nutcrackers and striped ribbon) add a touch of nostalgia.

Home #2: Michelle Adams, former Domino editor-in-chief and Maryn founder, featured on The EveryGirl

Details to note: Lush magnolia garland; plaid on plaid; twinkling lights and bare trees (that’s allowed!); adding oranges to my grocery list.

Home #3: Debbie Propst, president of One Kings Lane

Details to note: A single wreath and simple topiaries make for a classic porch; layers of greenery for full garlands (mix faux with real); wreaths above mirrors; a traditional tree always works.

Scaling Down the Design: A Lemon-Inspired Bedroom

Jun72018

If you’ve been on Pinterest for more than a minute lately, you’ve probably come across this amazing nursery designed by Dina Bandman for this year’s San Francisco Decorator Showcase. I thought it would be fun to take on the challenge of “scaling down the design” to make it a pretty guest or girl’s bedroom.

Photography: Christopher Stark

This was a tricky one because that wallpaper and lucite crib are pretty amazing (and pricey) elements. But, I love the idea of taking inspiration from an over-the-top designer room and figuring out ways to use pieces of it in real life. This is my loose translation of the space on a smaller scale.