Symmetry Vs. Asymmetry in Interior Design

Linda Merrill modern sideboard with single lamp how to place lamps

Symmetry vs. asymmetry – is it an either or? Symmetry and asymmetry are two fundamental principles of design used to create balance and visual interest in a space. The reality is, we need both when creating a visually appealing environment. Too much symmetry can result in a boring room and too much asymmetry can result … Read more

Reeded and Tambour Finishes on Furniture and More

Linda Merrill casual coastal design cabinet reeded and tambour finishes

Reeded and tambour finishes are not new, but they sure are trending!  They really are a classic to be found on bedposts and table legs, inspired by Greek and Roman fluted columns (though unlike concave flutes, reeds are convex). This is an excellent example from The Surface Studio in the UK. What is tambour then? … Read more

Small Dining Room meets High Style

Jillian Harris Love it or List It gray pink Small dining room

I’m a big proponent of smaller homes with beautiful decor. Large homes can be beautiful of course, but they are expensive to furnish, heat/cool and maintain. I’m also a big fan and hold out for the formal dining room and I see no reason why a small dining room can’t be a spectacular space.  Call … Read more

How Interior Design Renderings Bring a Plan to Life

Linda Merrill interior design renderings sunroom family room room 1

I’ve written previously about my Artistic 3D Renderings and even put together a little video showcasing many of my interior design renderings. I wanted to showcase a design plan I worked on recently which goes from architects plan, to built-space, to floor plan and interior design renderings and how each step in the process builds … Read more

There’s Charm Galore in this English Stone Cottage

Tudor stone bastle Northumberland England Photo by David Webb Bastle sign Stone cottage

In my last post on Accessories, I came across this adorably charming English country stone cottage on Country Living’s website. To die for. It also reminded me of Kate Winslet’s country cottage in The Holiday – almost as if one were the inspiration for the other. The house is owned by interior designer Julie Oswald and … Read more

Dining banquettes and settees and sofas – Do’s and Don’t

Duralee Mina settee dining banaquette and settee

When this issue of House Beautiful landed in my mailbox and I was struck with how pretty and minimalist the cover was. I also noted the dining settee behind the round table and just love the elegant shape which draws the eye up along the ceiling line of the room. I just love a good dining banquette, … Read more

10 Tips: Thinking of Hiring an Interior Designer? Let me give you some advice…

    So, you’re thinking of hiring an interior designer, but aren’t sure how to go about it. Maybe you’ve worked with a store-based designer and liked the process, but would like to branch out and not be limited to one store. Or possibly, you’ve just been made partner and you want to celebrate your … Read more

2017 Newburyport Kitchen Tour My Favorite Houses

Living room with teal blue chairs, hyde hair rug, cream leather sofa

I’ve been blogging for the last week about the 2017 Newburyport Kitchen Tour here. Today’s post will feature my two favorite houses on the tour. I think they are my favorite because of the use of space, thoughtful kitchen and interior design decisions and a cohesive design style that fits well with the architecture of the … Read more

A Modern Beach House with spectacular views out in Truro, MA

Modern beach house in Truro, MA on Cape Cod

  I wanted to share a set of photos I just got this week (four years later!) of the modern beach house I decorated in Truro, Massachusetts. The project was shot by Paul Blackmore for Cape Cod Magazine and even made the cover! This was a modernist beach house – basically a white box with … Read more

Massachusetts’s Oldest House Just Sold – and it’s adorable.

Cape Cod Home

This adorable house in Sandwich, Massachusetts on Cape Cod sold in 2016 and was considered the oldest house currently on the market. From the real estate listing:  Meticulously maintained 1600’s English style cottage on Shawme Pond. Launch your kayak or fish from your private dock. Perfect for a second home, weekend getaway, or year-round living … Read more