I’m still very confused about what my interior design “style” is. I’m far from a minimalist, but I wouldn’t go so far as to say I fully align myself with the maximalists. My room has a rustic feel, but then again, I’m not a total traditionalist.
What I recently realized is that my interior design goal is not to identify one design style that represents my home, but to make sure that my space always feels comfortable. Rather than being overly styled or carefully selected, the atmosphere is chic and upscale, yet unique and approachable.
On H&G’s Instagram, we recently posted about ‘Sprezzatura’. This is Italian and means something like “studied carelessness.” Applied to the interior, this is exactly the “style” I’m aiming for. It was lived-in and laid back, but behind the scenes there was a lot of thought and consideration.
I reached out to some of my favorite designers who I admire for always achieving this look, and got their advice on how to recreate it at home. Here are their words:
1. Pieces will collect naturally over time
(Image credit: Marie Flanigan Interiors, photography Julie Soefer)
“Creating interiors that look effortless is about embracing items that tell a story and age gracefully,” says designer Marie Flannigan. “A thoughtfully designed space doesn’t need to feel over-the-top style; instead, it features patinaed leather chairs, unlacquered brass, and other elements that create a sense of comfort and ease. It makes them come alive.”
“When styling, reach for old books, loosely placed branches, or anything that feels naturally collected over time. These personal touches make a room feel truly lived-in and inviting.” It’s about making it the best it can be,” adds Marie.
2.Reflect individuality in every detail
(Image credit: Rachel Smith)
Designer Natalie Tredgett-Second Maryse points out that no matter your design style, creating an effortless interior is all about personality.
She explains: “Effortless interiors are created when they are thoughtfully aligned with a client’s unique personality and lifestyle.” I continually refine ideas down to their essence by asking important questions. “Where is the space?” What is its function? How do you want to feel when you are there? And what makes it personal? For designs to be effortlessly compatible, all elements need to truly convey these answers and make the space feel natural, intentional, and deeply personal. there is. ”
3. Display family heirlooms
(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)
Decorating with family heirlooms is a great way to instantly add personality to your home and make it feel hand-picked easily by mixing in your own pieces. Designer Cathy Kuo explains, “The key to a truly effortless interior design motif is whether it reflects who you are and what you love and find interesting.” Masu.
“There are many ways to decorate your home, but creating Pinterest-worthy design vignettes is easy. What’s more important than designer furniture or trendy color schemes is the heart and soul. Don’t be afraid to mix in fun trinkets to make your space very comfortable and livable.
4. Everything doesn’t have to match
(Image credit: Jake Shea)
“The secret to making an interior look truly effortless is choosing materials that are durable and of the highest quality. For me, it’s all about combining colors, textures, woods, and metals in a way that feels natural and alive.” The right balance of elements creates a cohesive yet relaxed atmosphere where everything flows but doesn’t feel overly orchestrated or staged,” says designer Becky.・Shay explains.
“I love mixing and matching different items: chairs, sofas, side tables, ottomans, etc. because it creates the perfect blend of comfort and style.” Mixing and matching furniture and finishes adds depth and character to a room. This creates a cozy, lived-in feel without sacrificing sophistication. I avoid things that look too good on me. “It makes the room look drab and bland,” she added.
“For me, the essence of effortless chic is embracing the art of mixing things up. You want a cohesive palette where every piece or material you choose is unique, while still working together. It’s about creating personal, layered spaces where each item tells its own story, yet contributes to the warmth and beauty of the entire home. This is where the magic happens: the rooms are carefully selected, thoughtful, and thoughtful. It’s when I feel most at ease.”
5. Create layers and “ripples” through color schemes
(Image credit: Christian Bense)
“One of the important things to remember if you want your space to look effortlessly natural is that not everything has to match. To avoid an over-styled look, add layers throughout the space. You need to create ripples,” explains designer Christian Bence.
“Avoid the temptation to match every finish, fabric, and color perfectly, and instead choose a variety of tones and materials that bring a more layered, organic feel to your space. As a studio, we There’s a particular focus on mismatched neutrals, combining warm white tones with cool ones.
“For example, a cool, neutral wall color like Paint and Paper Library’s Slate II pairs well with the warm linens of the curtains. Or pair an oatmeal linen sofa with bright white cushions and throws. We find that these intentional mismatches give the room a more austere feel. It’s a really subtle reaction, but mismatched neutrals help us create more harmonious interiors. This is the basis for how to do it.”
6. Paste the artwork on the wall (odd numbers)
(Image credit: Benji Lewis)
“A gallery wall with a variety of photos is a great way to create impact, but don’t get caught up in the idea that everything has to be themed around a particular subject or painted in oil or watercolor,” says designer Benji.・Lewis explains. Yet the sophisticated style always looks effortless.
“Mix and match things like oil paints, watercolors, prints, and mirrors to be eclectic and show your personality. However, when it comes to accessories, I find that grouping them in odd numbers works best. Don’t worry if things don’t fit. As long as the furniture is properly sized and shaped, it won’t be a problem if the fabrics clash.
7. Create a more practical room display
(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens / Good Bones London)
More utilitarian rooms such as kitchens and bathrooms can be difficult to make look distinctive because they are very utilitarian spaces. But Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL, says there are still plenty of opportunities to create beautiful, creative, but not too selective displays in the kitchen.
She says, “People who like to display their things or keep them outside rather than putting them in cupboards are generally avid cooks or collectors.” Cooks use pots and ladles quickly and efficiently. Open shelving and hanging rails keep everything organized, easy to find, and ready to use. ”
“People who love beautiful things also love to display. There’s no need to hide away all your treasures, such as dishes and copper pots. Everyone has their own display, from a ceiling full of fresh herbs and utensils to a perfectly placed Italian coffee maker.”
8. Incorporate natural elements
(Image credit: MARIE FLANIGAN Interiors)
“Creating an effortless look in interiors requires a blend of simplicity and styling. We use natural elements such as trees and greenery on tables and in the corners of rooms to define the space before filling it with furniture. I like it to be fixed,” explains Jennifer Walter, founder of Foldingchair Design.
“Styling is the key to making any space feel special. Using accessories with a neutral, natural feel will help you achieve a calm, universally pleasing look. We chose ceramics, wood sconces, and textured art. Masu.”
9. Layer old and new
(Image provided by Studio Vero)
“Achieving a stylish and effortless interior is all about the right combinations. We take a relaxed and very often experimental approach, layering the old with the new. Venetia Rudebeck, co-founder of Studio Vero, juxtaposes antiques with new finds and artisan pieces.
“Nothing should feel too fixed, it’s there because it’s meant to be. You definitely need to love every item you buy.” We like colors and patterns; I like to combine playfulness and unexpected designs. We always recommend that you don’t take your room “too seriously” and just have fun sourcing and seeing what works. The key is to be creative and not look too good. The accessories and books are also very stylish, and you can never have enough books. ”
10. The final touch is the key
(Image credit: Christian Bense)
“Final touches are key to creating an effortless interior,” says Christian Bence. “Books, art, flowers, decorations – these things can make or break a space, so it’s important to get this right.”
“When it comes to styling, books make a room. A pile of books and magazines on a coffee table can swap places as people use them, creating a rhythm in the room and adding a very real human element to the space. ” I tend to shy away from things on the coffee table and instead go for items that I can use, like bowls, trays, and vases. ”
“Marble decor on a coffee table instantly looks stylish, so choose one that is more likely to be used. Purpose provides intention, meaning everything is just You can layer more surfaces than you would if it were a display object.”
The lesson learned from all this great advice is that your home can easily be stylish if you ignore trends, follow your intuition, and decorate with pieces you love. You can’t go wrong with filling a room with unique pieces, pieces that hold memories and meaning.
