Baroque interior design refers to the style of decor that was used during the Baroque period of architecture, art, and design in the 17th and first half of the 18th century.

This extravagant style included layered, formal, highly decorated interiors that included such elements as bronze sculptures; intricate tapestries; sculpted wood mirrors, moldings, and paneling; elaborately painted ceilings; crystal chandeliers; and gilded everything.

History of Baroque-Style Design

The Baroque movement started in Italy around 1600. It then spread to France, throughout Europe, and around the globe. Baroque was the first visual style to have a significant worldwide impact.1

Baroque-style interior design is part of the larger Baroque visual arts movement that spanned architecture, art, furniture design, objects, and more, with interior design, architecture, and art working together to create a cohesive visual statement.

Baroque style was an aesthetic exercise and a sensory demonstration of power—such as the highly decorative churches and cathedrals that the Catholic Church in Italy constructed to increase its dominance. In France, Louis XIV used a variation of Baroque style mixed with French Classicism as a kind of power branding for the monarchy. His interior designer Charles Le Brun took cues from the Sun King’s taste for all things gilded and desire to showcase his enormous power, resulting in the Château de Versailles, a monument to Baroque style that still shines today.

While Baroque style first emerged in Italy, it culminated in Rococo, (otherwise known as Late Baroque, or rocaille style) that developed in 18th-century Paris. Rococo’s ornate, over-the-top style was as a rebuke to the strict confines of French Baroque architecture and King Louis XIV’s strict ideas about what constituted art.

Baroque fell out of fashion in the mid 18th century, but appreciation for the style was revived in the 19th century. In the 20th century, acclaimed interior designer Dorothy Draper invented a popular style known as Modern Baroque, which was a bold take on the classics that used elements of bling, bright colors, and an updated take on Rococo detailing that became popularly known as Hollywood Regency. In the 21st century, contemporary Baroque mini revivals with nicknames such as Modern Romantic continue to come and go, even if today only the most eccentric contemporary interiors would feature full-on Baroque style.

Key Characteristics of Baroque-Style Design

• Baroque style is lavish, sumptuous, highly ornamental, and theatrical, with a flair for the dramatic and an undeniable sense of grandeur
• This aesthetic style was designed to appeal to the senses in order to provoke a heightened emotional response
• The overall style is characterized by its unapologetic use of bling, from sparkling crystal chandeliers to elaborately carved mirrors, to monumental furniture and decor pieces, to gilded finishes on everything from furniture to objects to walls
• French Baroque style may look like a riot of details and decorative elements, but it distinguishes itself with an underlying focus on symmetry and elegance informed by French Classicism

• Use of refined materials and techniques such as porcelain, lacquer, and wood marquetry
• Baroque interiors often feature spectacular painted ceilings that are often meant to create a trompe l’oeil effect of being open to the sky
• Use of carved moldings and ornamental details such as stylized natural motifs such as leaves, flowers, cherubs, human, and animal figures
• Shapes and forms are often curved and spiraled to create a sense of movement, such as scrolls of foliage

Modern Baroque Decorating Tips

Baroque style may seem out of step with modern decor, but it remains an influence for contemporary interior designers and home decorators alike, who often embrace a Baroque minimalist approach to incorporating the interior design style.

When incorporating Baroque-style elements into a modern decor scheme, a little bit goes a long way. A gilded Baroque-style Italian or French mirror or bed frame can provide a focal point in an otherwise modern room with neutral finishes and decor, or work as part of a more eclectic design scheme.

To inject some Baroque style into a modern room, incorporate contemporary pieces that are a playful riff on Baroque style. The best-selling Bourgie lamp designed for Kartell by Italian designer Ferruccio Laviani in 1994 is made from transparent polycarbonate, modeled after an antique lamp that the designer had on his desk. This ultra-contemporary reimagining of Baroque style traverses time and space and is surprisingly versatile.

For a more traditional take, choose Rococo-style furniture such as curvy velvet upholstered armchairs, slipper chairs, and skirted sofas.

There’s something to be said for efficiency. As a chronic multitasker and multi-passionate person in general, something that always gets me excited (read: something I get absolutely crazy about) is how I can make my life easier and more productive.

This means a garage-turned-laundry-room (yes, I have this!), a desk-turned-plant-shelf (because, why not?!) or, as one of the more recent trends suggests, a closet office.

But, to be honest, I’m not completely sold on that last one.

Now, don’t get me wrong—efficiency truly is everything—especially in light of the past two ‘pandemic years’ we’ve had, and the changes that have arisen from this total shift to working (and caretaking, eating, living, and breathing, etc.) at home. If you’re forced to do all of the things in the space you live in, you have to get, well, *creative.*

But as innovative and trendy as the closet office is, I have to admit… I’m still not a huge fan.

Sure, from the first look these closet offices appear to be tucked away, completely organized, and the one-size-fits-all solution for every person, couple, or family. But in all honesty, are they as efficient as they appear to be? (I’d argue against it.)

But, before we jump into the question of efficiency, let me break down closet offices, why they’ve become all the rage, and what you may not have realized from first glance.

What’s a ‘Closet Office’?

Well, as the name suggests, a closet office is a closet that’s converted into a fully functional (albeit small) workspace. The idea behind creating a ‘closet office’ is usually for one of two reasons: lack of space or a desire for change and/or innovation.

The appeal of this smaller office is that you can have everything you need to work from home without having to redo your entire living space. This is especially relevant for those who are used to leaving for the workday and/or have allocated a traditional ‘office’ room to a spare bedroom, playroom, game room, etc.

With a closet office, you can essentially ‘tuck’ your work away without losing the functionality of the space overall—an office when you need one and a nice-looking closed door when you don’t.

With a closet office, you can also customize it how you see fit. From ripping out shelves and building a wall-mounted unit to reconfiguring the hanging areas to accommodate bulletin boards and drawers, a closet office has all the bells and whistles as a traditional area—with only half of the size.

If you have a larger space, you can opt for the closet with double doors that slide or fold open (think large bedroom closet) or sneak your space into a typically unused corner (think broom or storage closet). And, depending on the style of the rest of your home, you can outfit your office with anything from plants and hanging décor to wallpaper and vertical shelving for all your knick-knacks.

So… it sounds all great. Is there a downside? (Spoiler alert: yes.)

The Truth About Closets as Offices

Although I absolutely love the idea of taking advantage of extra space, the problem with closet offices is that they’re truly not much better than keeping yourself nose-down in a cubicle.

Because you’re building a space in a closet, more often than not, you’re going to be lacking any windows or connection to the outside world (think stuffy, poor airflow, and no visuals of the world beyond your walls).

While this may not seem like a big deal at first, you’re literally tucking yourself away in four-walled silence. And sure, it’s an escape in the beginning, but before long, you’ll end up feeling isolated and stir crazy.

Closet offices are not that functional, either. Take video calls, for example. If you’re going to take a video call from your closet office, you’ll need to think about how you can best create a backdrop or lighting that’s conducive to video calls. Zooming from your closet might sound like fun and games, until you realize that there are shadows are all over your face, the sound is stifled, and the entire background behind your closet is exposed. It’s not always as simple as turning on a virtual background, either. You’ll have to be a bit intentional about how you set up the office so that it makes sense beyond just a place to sit and store your items.

Another reason why closet offices are not that great is simply because they’re small and less functional. While the premise of having a good balance between work and play sounds ideal—and having a small, designated space within your larger space seems to honor that—because of the size, you’ll find (more often than not), your work items will end up outside of those tiny walls.

I mean, let’s face it: if you don’t have space to swivel your chair, you’re going to quickly run out of room for those files, electronic devices, and charging cords that are all essential to your day-to-day. And let’s not forget about outlets. How many closets come outfitted with electricity? (Not many.) So, now you’ll have to deal with extension cords in stuffy, improperly ventilated spaces—both a fire hazard and a hassle.

Office Alternatives for Small Spaces

I’m not a big fan of bashing the innovation—in fact, if a closet office works for you and your space, then by all means! But, I think that there are viable solutions that make a bit more sense (especially if your issue is space).

Purchase a foldable chair and table set. Now, before you shake your head, hear me out. While a folding chair and table set sounds silly, there’s something to be said for the versatility. You can move your workspace to any area of your home (even outside) and then easily pack it up and store it away when you’re done. Not only is this creating a barrier between work and play, but it’s helping you be more intentional (and thus focused) on one thing at a time.

You can invest in one of those wall-mounted, folding desks. This type of desk mounts onto the wall on one side and can simply be lifted and secured into a sitting position. From here, all you need is a chair or stool and you’re set! When you’re done, simply unhook and put the table back on the wall. The process is so simple and unobtrusive to your daily life.

Or, you can build floating shelves for standing/sitting desk variations. Floating shelves are great because they can double as statement décor. When you’re not using the shelf for an office space, it can hold plants or pictures, for example. When you are, you can simply attach your laptop and add your notebook (sitting or standing).

Now, your office is a part of the space rather than something that is added or that takes away from it.

1. Display Art

Why not create a mini gallery in your living room? “Art always makes a home feel more personal,” says Michelle Gage of Michelle Gage Interior Design. “You can collect pieces over time and while traveling or visiting local markets and galleries.”

Don’t feel the need to opt for what’s trending; focus on works that speak to you. “Selecting something that feels so specific to your personal style always makes an impact,” Gage says. “Even more so, you can attach memories to your new favorite find.”

Whitney Riter Gelinas of Wit Interiors agrees. “There is no ‘right’ type of art because it’s all about what the piece evokes for the viewer,” she says. “Foodie clients of ours recently had us frame menu’s from Chez Panisse and French Laundry so they could remember those meals for years to come.”

2. Showcase a Passion

There are other creative ways to showcase a love of food and cooking within your home. “One of my passions is cooking, and I love to collect various salts and herbs and spices that I’ve found,” says Peti Lau of Peti Lau Inc. “I love to put them in cool ceramics, all different sizes and shapes, and that individualizes my kitchen.”

Or perhaps you’re simply passionate about all of the humans and four-legged friends in your life. “Putting up photos—with matching frames in different sizes so they feel consistent—with pictures of your favorite humans or pets having adventures reminds of you great times with great people,” Lau says.

3. Paint Your Walls

Whether you rent your space or own your home, you can easily use paint to transform the rooms of your choosing. “Paint is a great way to personalize a space,” Gelinas says. “The cost is low but the impact can be dramatic.”

Think beyond coating the four walls. “Think outside the box—is there a feature wall that you could paint a bright color? A ceiling that could use a punch? We love using painters tape to define geometric patterns like stripes,” Gelinas says.

Don’t be afraid to take risks. “Going for a bold paint or drape or accessories is easiest, but if you’re unsure of a bold tile that you really love or a cabinet color engage a designer to help you decide,” comments Isabella Patrick of Isabella Patrick Interior Design. “A lot of what we do for clients is support them while helping them get to the essence of what they love. If you can’t afford a designer, enlist a trusted friend to help you feel courageous in a bold move.”

4. Rethink Your Lighting

Don’t feel wedded to bland, builder-grade lighting just because it’s already there. “Layer your lighting in every room,” suggests Jocelyn Polce of August Oliver Interiors. “Harsh overhead lighting can feel sterile and basic. Consider the uses of the space and the mood you want to create.”

Use lighting as a way to add texture and whimsy to your space. “Add lamps with printed fabric shades to bring in a pattern, or pop a mini lamp on the kitchen counter on a tray for mood lighting,” Polce says.

5. Buy Only What You Love

Filling your home with pieces that you consider extra special will make any space feel more like your own. “If you’re desperate for a new sofa, and you rush to purchase one during a big sale you may end up with a great deal but a sofa that never quite fits your actual style,” Patrick says. “It is far better to spend that extra $500, pay full price, and love it.”

In that same vein, don’t scoop up pieces just because they seem like a good deal, Patrick notes, adding, “The exception here is with antiques or vintage items that are smaller wares.”

6. Be Confident in Your Choices

Don’t hesitate to make design choices that please you, even if they’re not going to be everyone’s cup of tea. “The number one way to make your home feel like ‘you’ is to know and be confident in your own design aesthetic,” says Brandi Wilkins of Three Luxe Nine Interiors. “So often we lean into what’s trending rather than what we personally gravitate toward.”

It’s possible to admire a trend or enjoy videos of it on TikTok without needing to emulate that style in your own space. This may mean going the old-fashioned route when planning out your space.

“The internet and social media make it nearly impossible to be unaware of trends,” says Laura Hur of Lorla Studio. “Whether we intend to implement trends into our home or not, they are hard to avoid.”

Hur encourages looking beyond the internet and social media, instead drawing inspiration from design books, travel, museums, and other similar resources.

“When you do see a room on Instagram that really resonates with you, hone in on what it is about that room that you are drawn to,” she says. “Once you understand what it is you like, you can then implement the concept in your home in a more personal way, by using colors or brands that are more aligned with your personal style.”

Lofts are elevated spaces within a home that can serve a multitude of purposes, whether you choose to use one as a bedroom, storage space, or for another activity entirely.

Below, you will find plenty of information regarding where lofts are most commonly found, how they are primarily used, and what differentiates lofts from finished attic spaces.

What Is a Loft?

A loft is an elevated area inside of a home that is accessible via a flight of stairs. Lofts will generally overlook a main living area, such as a living room or kitchen, and function as an additional room within a home that can be used for relaxing, working, or sleeping.

Similar to an outdoor balcony’s design, a loft has railings but does not feature four standard plaster walls like a traditional room would.

Where Are Lofts Found?

Lofts are most commonly found in contemporary or industrial-style homes. They are also common in smaller city apartments, given that they allow vertical space to be repurposed into an additional new room even when square footage is limited.

A home’s architectural style will influence a loft’s specific appearance. In industrial-style homes, for example, lofts are usually accessible up a black metal staircase and feature black metal railings. They may be accompanied by exposed brick walls as well as exposed beams or ductwork as well.

What Are Lofts Used For?

Because lofts are located up a flight of stairs and not on the main level of a home, they are often used as offices and lounge spaces. When a loft is used as an office, it’s easy for an adult to be working in this space while still keeping an eye on the family downstairs, explains Rachael Grochowski, principal architect and designer at RHG A+D.

“Lofts are great areas for a library or just an overlook,” she says. Sometimes, lofts that serve as offices are enclosed with glass, Grochowski adds.

A loft can also function as a bedroom. However, given its lack of standard walls, this type of setup is most often the case in a single-occupancy apartment, or one belonging to a couple, in which case privacy is not as much of a concern.

Additionally, there is sometimes an en-suite bathroom in a lofted bedroom, but other times, this is not the case, and the sole bathroom is located downstairs on the main living level.

Some people may simply choose to use a lofted space as storage in lieu of a traditional attic. In this instance, lofts make for easily accessible spaces in which to store items such as off-season clothing, holiday and seasonal decorations, entertaining supplies, crafting gear, and more.

A small loft, such as the one shown here, can even be converted into a walk-in closet and used to house several clothing racks, and shoe holders which will make getting ready for the day more enjoyable.

Finished Attic vs. Loft

A finished attic is more secluded than a loft, given that it features standard walls. Attics also maintain a different design aesthetic and are usually more rustic in nature, whereas many lofts lean modern and industrial.

As Patty Cassidy, director of interiors at Ike Baker Velten states, “lofts prioritize open space with an emphasis on aesthetics and functionality.”

Many lofts are furnished with neutral pieces, plenty of plants, and sleek accent pieces. Choose an overall theme or color palette to ensure your loft blends in with the rest of your home.

Since lofts can be seen from the room or rooms below them, this will need to be taken into account during the design process—you will want to select items that appear cohesive with the rest of your space and ensure that the area does not look too cluttered or otherwise visually distracting.

The lack of full walls in a loft means that sound can carry; as a benefit, those upstairs can easily converse with those downstairs in the main living spaces if they wish.

Known for its earthy color palettes and rustic accents, Southwestern design has become incredibly popular in the home decor and design world. Pulling influence from Indigenous history, culture, and textile craft; Spanish settlers’ building methods; and the rustic charm of the “wild” American West, Southwestern style has a much longer and far more varied history than you might think.

The History of Southwestern Style

The origin of Southwestern design comes from three major influences, including the Navajo, Spanish settlers, and the American West. Indigenous peoples crafted items from textiles to pottery and woven blankets, while Spanish and American settlers used local materials and utilitarian items that still have lasting impacts on Southwestern style in modern times.

1. 1. Indigenous Peoples: Long before any settlers arrived in the American Southwest, the region was inhabited by Indigenous tribes—particularly, the Navajo. The Navajo have an incredibly long history of producing beautiful, vibrant, woven blankets and textiles, handmade pottery, woven baskets, and other personal goods, like turquoise jewelry and leather items. Today, you can still see much of the Navajo influence in Southwestern style. If you choose to decorate with Navajo-inspired home accents, opt to purchase your goods directly from Navajo craftsmen and women, or those residing in the Navajo Nation. Not only will it directly support a local artisan, but also it’ll boost the local economy.
   2. Spanish settlers: Spanish settlers were some of the first to arrive in the Southwestern United States. Because the Southwest has a climate similar to Spain, many settlers used traditional building techniques to build their new homesteads. Using the materials available in the region, like adobe (for the walls) and red clay (for roof tiles), these settlers propagated their building style across the region. Some key elements of Spanish Colonial style include thick, white stucco walls, red clay roof tiles, wooden beams and accents, and earthy color palettes.

1. The American West: The iconic “wild west” is also a major influence in today’s Southwestern home decor. Because many American settlers arrived in the hot, harsh terrain with very little, they had to make do with what was available to them. Items that were once considered utilitarian—like cowhide rugs, rustic design, wooden furniture, and hammered metal accents—are now key elements in Southwestern style.

Elements of Southwestern Style

When it comes to decorating your home, you should always use your own personal touch and incorporate furniture, accents, and decor that suit your family’s lifestyle. There are, however, some key elements to Southwestern style, if you really want to nail the rustic, earthy look:

Simple White Walls

Like traditional Spanish architecture, stick to white walls. A simple backdrop will showcase any vibrant weavings, earthy-colored accents, or wood pieces in your home. Plus, white walls can brighten a darker space.

Earthy Color Palettes

Terracotta, brown, and turquoise are colors you’ll commonly see in Southwestern decor, and for good reason: They mimic the surrounding desert environment and pay homage to the materials Indigenous tribes and settlers had available to them. Feel free to punctuate an earthier color palette with more vibrant accents, like woven textiles (rugs, pillows, and blankets), and brass or copper planters or mirrors.

Layered Textures

Layering different textures can give your home depth and dimension. Try pairing a vibrant woven rug with leather upholstered furniture, cowhide or sheep fur pillows, and a sturdy wooden coffee table or side table.

Ceramic Tiles in Southwestern Design

Ceramic and clay tile is used extensively in Southwestern design for both floors and walls. Tiles are popular because they are cool to the touch in hot weather and retain heat in cold weather. Saltillo tile, also known as terracotta, is a very popular staple in Southwestern design thanks to its warm colors.

Common Patterns

Southwestern style incorporates simple or complex repetitive geometric shapes into woven textiles and tiles. It’s common to mix and match and layer pillows, rugs, wall art, and upholstery of different geometric patterns, such as diamonds and arrows, in rustic colors.

Vintage Pieces

Vintage and rustic decor, such as distressed wooden and painted furniture and distressed leather, are commonly found in Southwestern interiors. Traditional Southwestern artwork includes vintage Navajo and Pueblo tapestries, pottery, and paintings.

Wooden furniture. Once utilitarian, wooden furniture and accents can give your home an authentic rustic vibe. You’ll often see wooden ceiling beams in Southwestern homes—because, traditionally, adobe homes aren’t finished with trim, so the beams support the walls and ceilings—as well as heavy, wooden tables, chairs, and dressers. Don’t be afraid to mix wood finishes either—it’ll just add another layer of dimension to your space.

• Natural accents. If a longhorn skull isn’t your thing—although, we have to say, they look amazing over a fireplace, bed, or desk—accent your space with other natural elements. Cacti are easy to care for, while geodes can add a pop of color and whimsy to a room.
• Hammered metals. Utilitarian hammered metal light fixtures and accents are commonly found in Southwestern homes. Use different finishes, like aged bronze, copper, or brass for extra color and texture.

Modern Southwestern Style

Aspects of Southwestern style have been incorporated into modern designs through furniture, accents, or mixing different design styles. Bring touches of Southwestern style into your own space by layering jute rugs, woven textiles, baskets, and blankets by Navajo and other Indigenous artisans and vendors.

When it comes to Southwestern decor, don’t be afraid to experiment to create Southwestern garden spaces, as well. Bring in design elements like native cactuses and yuccas accented with adobe-mud walls for that distinctive Southwestern character.

Instead of the clunky tracks and heads, today’s track lights have many options for both the track itself as well as the size, style, and color of the light fixtures.

Tracks are easy to install, even when remodeling or redecorating a room since power is usually already available in the wiring of an existing ceiling fixture. Track lights are perfect when you want to accent objects with light or work under a directional task light.

Here are some basic tips on what to look for when considering installing track lighting.

Why You Want Track Lighting

• Track lighting is a contemporary fixture that’s as perfect for new construction as it is for renewed spaces in existing homes.
• Tracks are versatile, allowing flexibility in sizing, placement, and fixture styles.
• Lights can be aimed at any artwork, countertops, walls, or other room features as needed, making them infinitely useful if you like to change your furniture or artwork around from time to time. Go with white fixture heads to blend into a ceiling or make a statement with black or silver heads.

When to Use Track Lighting

• Tracks are especially handy when a room has an existing electrical box in the ceiling yet needs additional light directed throughout the room. For example, install a track in an older kitchen or home office when you can replace an outdated ceiling light with a track that aims the light right where you need it—on work surfaces and into pantries or closets.

Where to Place Track Light Fixtures

• Run a straight track along a hallway ceiling and aim fixtures at the artwork on either wall.
• Customize a track to fit your kitchen space. A U-shaped configuration may allow you to place light right where you need it—over an island or onto the countertops.
• Install a track 20- to 40-inches out from the walls in a room.
• Consider installing a track to highlight a large collection of artwork hung over a mantel or on a wall since the heads can be adjusted to point to specific areas of the display.
• A track installed in a dark closet will let you position several heads right where you need light—on clothes or shelves.
• Higher ceilings can take track units that are dropped from a central electrical box location or via stems or cable systems.
• Watch that track heads won’t interfere with the operation of doors, cabinets, or other movable room elements.

Sizing

• Heads are available in large, small, and mini sizes.
• Track lighting is manufactured in specific lengths (such as 4- or 8-foot sections), though track sections can be joined via connectors in a straight line, L-shape, or T-shape.

Basics

• When purchasing track lighting, buy all of the parts from one manufacturer, since components are not interchangeable.
• Power runs through the track to run each light head that is clipped into the track.
• The heads can usually be pointed in any direction or rotated up or down, or side to side as needed.

Types of Light Bulbs for Track Lighting

You may want to select the type of bulb you prefer before selecting the heads and track for your system.

• Line voltage halogen lamps (also known as PAR lamps) are good all-purpose bulbs for most applications.
• MR16s (also known as low voltage halogen) are best for accent lighting and also require transformers either on each fixture head or installed into the ceiling.

When to Skip Track Lighting

• Track lighting is specialized lighting and is not designed for use as a general light in a room.
• Rooms with low ceilings are not good candidates for track lighting since the heads hang down from the ceiling and could present an obstacle.
• Finally, consider other lighting alternatives for spaces that are decorated very traditionally or formally, where track lighting may have too contemporary a look.

Caution

Get advice from an experienced electrical salesperson on what parts are needed for a track lighting installation in your space—including connectors, heads, tracks, and other parts. In some local areas you may be required to obtain building permits to upgrade lighting, so check to make sure. If this project is too advanced for your skills, have your new track lights installed by a qualified electrician.

Make more space in your bedroom or guest room with a Murphy bed. Also known as a wall bed, this unique bed frame folds up when not in use, concealing the mattress and presenting a solid exterior, sometimes styled as a cabinet. The advantage of a Murphy bed is the ability to regain floor space while the bed is not in use.

Making the choice to purchase and install a Murphy bed can feel daunting if you’re unfamiliar with the features and styles available. You’ll want to be sure that you select a bed that fits your objective for the room, is easy enough to raise and lower, and is durable enough to last. In this guide, learn about the types of Murphy beds available, the most important buying considerations, and where to find and buy a wall bed.