Author Archive

Our Dark Paint Top Picks

Mt. Platta Project: Cabinets in Westcott Navy by Benjamin Moore.

We are in a mood. A mood for dark paint! Though we are always game for all things light and bright, we can’t help but want to lean into the dark side. Deep, moody rooms have been making us feel all types of ways lately, and we are here for it! It feels soulful, ages with elegance, and can feel incredibly timeless. Dark paint is a great way to add drama to any space, yet it still pairs seamlessly with neutrals and bright whites. It can add depth and dimension while also providing a rich contrast against other design elements, like furnishings, fixtures, and textiles. We are total suckers for a dark hue paired with anything antiqued brass or reclaimed wood. Better yet, use a plaster or limewash finish, and we are talking about absolute textural heaven! 

So if you are obsessing over these moody vibes as much as we are, you are in luck! We went on a deep dive and compiled a list of some of the best dark paints in the game. Take a little peek at some inspiring designers who are really doing the dark paint game right, and shop our favorite colors below.

Looking for other shades of paint? Check out our post on some of South Harlow’s tried-and-true favorites! DESIGN TELL-ALL: OUR FAVORITE PAINT COLORS.

Interiors by Athena Calderone. Cabinetry in Railings by Farrow & Ball.
Interiors by Augusta Hoffman. Walls in Fade to Black in Roman Clay Finish by Portola Paints.
Interiors by Raili CA Design. Cabinetry in Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams.
Interiors by Colossus MFG. Walls in Off-Black by Farrow & Ball.
Interiors by Studio Giancarlo Valle. Walls in Shelter in Limewash Finish by Portola Paints.

OUR DARK PAINT TOP PICKS:

TOP ROW: 1. Fade to Black by Portola Paints , 2. Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams , 3. Westcott Navy by Benjamin Moore | SECOND ROW: 4. Amherst Gray by Benjamin Moore , 5. Railings by Farrow & Ball , 6. Onyx by Benjamin Moore | THIRD ROW: 7. Off-Black by Farrow & Ball , 8. In the Navy by Portola Paints , 9. Cheating Heart by Benjamin Moore | LAST ROW: 10. Down Pipe by Farrow & Ball , 11. Shelter by Portola Paints , 12. Greenblack by Sherwin Williams

Bring on the Light: Table Lamp Roundup

Photo from our La Jolla Project.

Looking for a good way to light up your life? Well, you’ve come to the right place. When contemplating ways to enhance the ambiance of a room, lighting is easily one of the key players. In particular, one of the best ways to layer in elements of warmth and create mood is through accent lighting.

Photo from our La Jolla Project.

If you are looking for a quick and easy way to incorporate a calming and comforting environment at home, a table lamp might just be your answer. Table lamps are, of course, functional, but they also add an artistic decor element to any space. Pairing soothing light with a sculptural design component is a double win in our book.

Photo from our Peters Stone Project.

Lucky for us, the options of lamps of all sorts these days come in quite an incredible range. Whether it be plaster, ceramic, rattan, or stone, the material and design style of your choice is out there, we promise! Go bold with statement shapes and scales, keep things classic with clean and timeless lines, or better yet, mix a few design styles for a beautifully dynamic home. So, whether it be in the entryway, living room, bedroom, or office space, check out our top picks in table lamps to add that extra layer artistic functionality to illuminate your home today. 


The Table Lamp Roundup

1. Boulder Table Lamp , 2. Mojave Ceramic Lamp , 3. Decker Table Lamp , 4. Sandstone Table Lamp , 5. Ansley Table Lamp , 6. Bella Skirt Lamp , 7. Capelli Table Lamp , 8. Minimalist Table Lamp , 9. Wood & Woven Lamp , 10. Hascombe Rattan Lamp Base , 11. Playa Table Lamp , 12. Frankfort Black Ash Lamp

5 Colors Inspiring Us to Go Bold in 2022

Image from our Peters Stone Project.

We are deep into the design grind over here, and we are right in the midst of pulling inspiration and brainstorming for some upcoming projects in 2022. While we typically stick to a signature look, it’s always fun to explore what other fellow designers are up to in order to get some ideas flowing. We are all about leveling-up our aesthetic and pushing our boundaries as designers. That’s what the new year is all about right? Refueling and reinvention is necessary to ensure that we don’t stay stagnant and our designs don’t feel too repetitive. It’s all about expanding our palate as designers and keeping things exciting over here! So on that note, there is a different type of palette that is catching our eyes. We’ve been noticing more and more designers experimenting with deeper and richer color palettes that are being used in refreshing and bold ways. We typically stick close to all types of neutrals and soft earth tones, but we can’t help but feel so drawn to these striking and moody hues. Maybe it’s the positive energy of starting the year off on a clean slate, but we are getting inspired and our engines are ready to play with color in 2022. Take a peek below at five colors that are pulling at our heartstrings!


Plum Red

Interior Design by Studio Hus.

This deep and romantic hue feels so classic and timeless. It’s not as vibrant as a true red, yet still packs a punch. It’s a glorious mix between an earthy aborigine and a muddy maroon. Plum can feel traditional while also feeling modern depending on what furniture and lighting you pair with it, and we love the instant sophistication that this color brings into any space.

Interior Design by Banda.
Interior Design by Susanna Holmberg Studios.

Black

Interior Design by Eric Olsen Design.

Okay we know, black…what a shocker. Also, can you even consider black a color? In our book, that’s a big yes. We are here to say that it’s all about how you use black: the scale, the proportion, the subtle shifts in tone from ash, slate, and obsidian. Yep, the bolder the better! Bring on all the mood.

Interior Design by Transition State.
Interior Design by Ashe Leandro.

Deep Teal

Interior Design by Shapeside.

A cool tone that blends soothing coastal hues with the earthy, grounding feels of the forest. Mix this color with dark walnut, caramel-toned leather, or a sleek ebonized oak, and you have yourself a refined, high-end feeling palette that feels both warm and cool. Add in a few Nordic modern pieces mixed with some global, vintage finds for the ultimate eclectic mix of old and new.

Interior Design by Arent & Pyke.
Interior Design by DISC Interiors.

Dusty Rose

Interior Design by Prairie Interiors.

This is a color on the softer side, but once again, depending on the scale and usage, it can make a bold impact. Use as a limewash, plaster, or stucco, and this feminine shade instantly brings a textural and ethereal feel into a space. If you want to be super daring, go entirely monochromatic and play around with varying tints, shades, and tones of this rosy hue.

Interior Design by Kelly Wearstler.
Interior Design by Phoebe Nicol.

Ochre

Interior Design by Reath Design.

Talk about a big glass of warm sunshine! This cheerful golden tone is not quite a true yellow, but it’s not quite an orange either. It has a little more zing than a mustard, but still feels a bit muted and approachable. Pairing this shade with dark wood tones, browns, brass, and shades of mushroom is a recipe for the coziest home. To make this palette feel more modern and up-to-date, use furniture, lighting, and hardware with clean, sleek lines and nothing too ornate.

Pantry by Plain English Kitchens.
Interior Design by Taylor + Taylor.

The Hostess Gift Guide

Photo from our Coronado J Project.

Holiday parties are in full swing, and you better believe we will be sipping a few cocktails and eating a Christmas cookie or two (or seven)! Whether for work, family, or play, it’s safe to say that this jolly time of year quickly gets packed with festivities. Where there are festivities, there is always a hostess hustling behind the scenes to bring the party to life. When there is a party being brought to life, it’s always nice to show your appreciation towards the one who is working hard to make the magic happen.

Photo from our Genter Project.

So on that note, we are jumping on the gift guide train and rounded up some favorite hosting essentials that are so stylish and timeless, your host can use them year-round for all of their entertainment needs. Now, while you sip bubbles into the night and nibble on all of the tasty finger foods, you can know that you’ve done your part in trying to spoil your host as much as your host has spoiled you. Cheers and happy holidays!


The Hostess Gift Guide

1. Mango Wood Serving Board , 2. Coasters Set , 3. Ceramic Cake Stand , 4. Brass Bottle Opener , 5. Water Pitcher , 6. 2019 Scribe Pinot Noir , 7. Dark Grey Cocktail Napkins , 8. Taper Candlestick Holders , 9. Elderflower Tonic , 10. Brass Cork Stopper , 11. Champagne Saucers , 12. Brass Cocktail Shaker

Holiday Tablescape Tips

Photo from our Peters Stone Project.

The holiday season is here! Well, it’s almost here, and if you are like us, all things hosting are coming to mind. As we gear up to gather around the table with our loved ones from near and far, we want to ensure that the atmosphere and tablescape are looking just as good as the food. Yep, we love creating those special moments with our loved ones with a signature designer twist. We can’t help it!

Yes, it’s always a nice touch to have a beautiful table setting to look at and take photos of, but there’s much more to it. It’s about creating an atmosphere for memories to be made, creating an ambiance that allows everyone to be present and submerged in the moment, and providing a nurturing space for all to unwind and feel gratitude for all that is good. Anyone else getting warm fuzzy feels?

So let’s get down to business, shall we? Check out our top five tips on how to curate a show-stopping tablescape so that you and yours can feast in style.

Photo from our Peters Stone Project.

1. Color Palette: You know we are lovers of all things neutral and earth-toned here, so it should be of no surprise what direction our color scheme will be going. However, if you want to make your palette feel more seasonal and fit for the holidays, we recommend going with some burnt orange hues, deep olive greens, or a rich navy to ensure that your table won’t feel too “cheesy” holiday. It leaves you the option to use these tabletop pieces year-round, too.

2. Layer in Textures: We are talking about real tablecloths, woven placemats, & linen napkins, people. No paper napkins and tablecloths here! This is your moment to consider your color palette, and you can use those textiles to elevate the dining experience and bring the table some soul.

3. Florals & Foliage: Let’s bring the table to life! We are huge fans of garland running down the center of the table – eucalyptus or pine is always a favorite! Also, consider going for a neighborhood stroll and foraging some greenery along the way. If you want to go more of a centerpiece route, consider grouping together a few collected vases with some seasonal, fresh cuts or even dried florals, too. Our last little hot tip here is to save a few pieces of your cooking herbs for your placemat settings! A rosemary spring tucked into each guest’s napkin can add such a special touch.

Photo from our Coronado J Project.

4. Add Decor: The décor is your chance to hone in and create the tone of the environment. Taper candlesticks are the perfect way to create mood lighting while creating a warm and intimate setting for your guests. Consider staggering candlesticks throughout the length of the table so that the whole table can equally feel the ambiance.

5. Add Dinnerware: It’s time to add in plates, glassware, & flatware. Depending on the food and drink, start selecting the appropriate serving bowls, decanters, gravy boats, and water pitchers. If you want to go for a more organic and eclectic route, we love the look of mix-and-matching ceramics, dishware, and materiality, too. A collected home is a happy home.

Feeling inspired to level up your tablescape game for the upcoming holiday hosting? We curated some special selections from South Harlow Home that are sure to flow with just about any color palette or tablescape aesthetic. Happy holidays friends, and happy shopping!


Shop South Harlow Home

1. Modern Taper Candle Holder in Black , 2. Orb Cutting Board , 3. Coastal Seagrass Decanter , 4. Glass & Mango Wood Decanter , 5. Modern Footed Bowl , 6. Modern Taper Candle Holder in Gold , 7. Striped Mango Wood Bowl , 8. Artisanal Stoneware Pitcher , 9. Hoop Salt & Pepper Grinders , 10. Modern Seagrass Vase , 11. Ceramic Taper Candle Holders , 12. Stoneware Creamer

The Return of Grasscloth Wallpaper

Image from our Windansea Project.

Does anyone else remember their parents having jute and raffia-covered walls back in the ’70s and ’80s? Oh yes, we know we sure do! Well, it’s 2021, and grasscloth wallpaper is back in action! Though it seems to be trending, this textural wallcovering piece stands the test of time. Its natural material and cozy, down-to-earth feel make it a true interior favorite during these travel-reduced times of being cooped up inside the home. Any reason to bring more of nature’s elements into the home is always a win in our book!

Image from our Peters Stone Project.

Grasscloth is a general term for any natural fibers that include jute, sisal, hemp, seagrass, and raffia. Not only do these fibers feel organic and laidback, but they are also sure to adapt to any interior style: polished and traditional, rustic and refined, bold and dramatic, you name it! These days, grasscloth extends far beyond your typical neutral-colored sisal, too. We have naturally dyed colors of all hues, block-printed patterns, and geometric shapes in all types of sizes. You can go as subtle and understated or as striking and impactful as you choose. Grasscloth wallpaper is a great alternative to paint when you are looking for something with more depth and dimension, and it’s a way to add layers of warm texture without being too distracting or overpowering.

Scroll below to take a little peek of a few grasscloth wallpaper looks that we are loving and some designers who are doing this look so right. Feeling inspired? We’ve gathered a list of a few wallpapers that are catching our eyes, from natural-toned to bold color to patterns small and large. Let us know what you think!

Interior Design by Katie Monkhouse Interiors.
Interior Design by Heidi Caillier Design.
Interior Design by Brooke Wagner Design.
Interior Design by Jean Stoffer Design.

Our Top Picks in Grasscloth Wallpaper:

1. Indigo Grasscloth , 2. LOXO Onyx Grasscloth , 3. Ritva Grasscloth , 4. Two-Tone Stripe Grasscloth , 5. Wan Grasscloth , 6. Tailor Grasscloth , 7. Amane Grasscloth , 8. Sying Grasscloth , 9. Juicy Jute – Baltic Blue , 10. Riley Grasscloth , 11. Bit of Blue Grasscloth , 12. Grasslands in Taupe