12 Interior Design Tips We Learned From Our Readers
Along with travel photos, selfies, and trendy fashion looks, Instagram offers a wealth of interior design inspiration. Yes, you can still flip through the pages of glossy décor magazines, visit furniture showrooms, and interrogate your most design-oriented friend for the latest home décor trends, but you can also simply open up a little app on your phone. Thanks to Instagram, interior designers (both amateur and professional) can reach a whole new audience of design-obsessed individuals, sharing photos of dreamy interiors that feature everything from up-and-coming brands and one-of-a-kind vintage wares.
Knowing this, we took to the app to find out what décor elements have been resonating most with some of our readers by using our own Instagram hashtag #InMyDomaine, which gives us access to galleries of stunning rooms in every style you can think of. Right now, there are 67,643 Instagram posts using the hashtag, offering us quite a stash of design inspiration. If you're in need of some décor ideas, take a look for yourself to see all of the beautiful interiors our readers have been sharing lately. We did just that and picked up on 12 interior décor tips that make for jaw-dropping living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. Keep scrolling to find out what we learned from our readers and how to shop their showstopping looks.
Make a statement with a contemporary chandelier.
This crisp living room comes from Indiana-based designer and stylist Whitney Utesch. Pops of greenery stand out against the all-white walls, cabinets, and fireplace while a jute rug, rattan chair, and natural poufs give the space texture and warmth. Of course, the room wouldn't be complete without the contemporary black-and-brass sputnik chandelier hanging from the ceiling. It makes a statement without distracting from the rest of the thoughtful décor.
Hang black-and-white photography in the bathroom.
When it comes to bathroom art, you can't go wrong with a subtle black-and-white print. Take a page from lifestyle blogger Claire Wainwright's book and select a strong frame for a piece that speaks to you. Whether a realistic photograph or an abstract work, a soothing wall hanging can turn any ordinary bathroom into a relaxing retreat.
Place a round mirror above the fireplace for dimension.
We're swooning over this light-filled living room discovered on stylist Maddy Evennett's beautifully curated Instagram. The textured rug, abstract art, hanging botanicals, and leather accent chair all come together to create a serene living space. Our favorite item? The round mirror hanging above the fireplace mantle.
Curate a bold gallery wall.
Lisa Dawson is not afraid of color, and this gallery wall is proof. The daring décor features a variety of prints and photographs, all in different sizes and colors. The finished look is bold, expressive, maximalist, and simply whimsical. Hang a few of your favorite smaller pieces of art on one wall to get the look.
Add a touch of glam to the kitchen with gold pendant lighting.
This dreamy kitchen comes from interior designer and product stylish Alma Arrieta. It's a prime example of how gold lighting can add just the right amount of glam to an otherwise breezy kitchen with coastal vibes. Ditch silver accent pieces for shiny gold details to try out the style for yourself.
Play around with vintage furniture.
An eclectic living room, this space is the result of Robyn Donaldson's expert thrift shopping. The design enthusiast boasts that almost everything she decorates with was found on eBay—which is no small feat. In addition to eBay, you can go digital thrifting on other vintage décor sites like Chairish and 1stDibs to find one-of-a-kind pieces that will add character and history to your home.
Use baskets for chic storage.
Nothing makes a bathroom look less sophisticated than towels, cleaning supplies, and other essentials being left strewn about. The stylish solution? A chic basket that's both functional and elegant. Interior designer Kristina Lynne nails the look in this serene bathroom.
Add a pop of color to the kitchen with leather bar stools.
Designer Lindye Galloway took to Instagram to share a look at her own kitchen, and we're glad she did. The beautiful all-white cabinetry and subway tiles are punctuated by burnt orange leather barstools and light wide plank wood flooring. The space feels fresh and contemporary while remaining timelessly classic.
Find Parisian-inspired décor.
If you can't seem to get enough of Parisian interior design, feast your eyes on this living room designed by Lauren MacLean. The crown molding, traditional fireplace, and soft velvet furnishings simply ooze Parisian style. Look for luxe materials and effortlessly chic décor like the sculptural end table and abstract art to adopt this style for your own living room.
Display an organized bookshelf.
Another heart-stopping interior space from Lynne, this reading nook features a spotless bookshelf. Free of clutter, it elevates the corner and doesn't cramp the small space. Take time to style your bookshelf and resist the urge to pile on too many elements at once. You'll be left with a highly styled space for all your treasures to sit on display.
Create coziness with a textured rug.
A small workspace blends right into this warm and inviting living room photographed by Deneise Bucko. Although the desk provides space to work, the rest of the room features small but effective details that evoke a sense of ease and comfort. Note the potted plants, landscape painting, rattan chairs, and shag rug with fringe.
Embrace natural elements with potted plants.
Walking into Liz Sparacio's Philadelphia loft is like stepping foot in an urban greenhouse. Her botanical-filled space makes an argument for the importance of surrounding yourself in nature, even if you live in the city. While you don't need to grow an entire garden in your home, a few plants (real or faux) can do wonders—both for how your home looks and how you'll feel in it.