Introducing Upward, a breezy, blissful blue. It’s the color found when we slow down, take a breath, and allow the mind to clear.

Think of it as a sunny day shade for spaces brimming with positive energy, creative thinking, and total contentment.

Upward (SW 6239) is a Relaxed and Carefree Color

Sherwin-Williams presents its 2024 Color of the Year Upward SW 6239, a breezy and blissful shade of blue that evokes the ever-present sense of peace found when slowing down, taking a breath, and allowing the mind to clear.  

“Upward SW 6239 represents the gentle forward momentum in all of our lives,” said Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams. “It brings to life that carefree, sunny day energy that elicits a notion of contentment and peace. With this color, we invite our consumers to take a pause and infuse a new sense of ease and possibility into their spaces – one that doesn’t overwhelm, but rather establishes meditation and tranquility.”

Upward Infuses Tranquility and Ease

Ascending from the earthy tone of 2023 Color of the Year, Redend Point SW 9081, Upward SW 6239 welcomes a weightless, buoyant peace; an invitation to open minds to a color of ethereal calm that is ever-present—if we remember to keep looking up.

“As we play with color, it’s essential to consider their interactions thoughtfully,” adds Wadden. “Warmed-up blues might lead to hues that appear muddled and lackluster, which is why preserving the crisp edge and magnetic allure of cool blues is vital. It’s these subtle nuances that create spaces that are timeless and inspired. We’re excited to share this beautiful color and, craft interiors that exude harmony and evoke a sense of enchantment.”

Upward is a Hue that Brings Clarity to Communal Spaces

Use the transitional blue of Upward SW 6239 (224-C1) to inspire meditative spaces and absolute peace in both residential and commercial settings. From classic coastal to casual Nordic styles, the airy-hued beauty of Upward SW 6239 (224-C1) dwells where the fairest-weather blue finds just a hint of silver lining.

“Used as an accent or all over, on both interiors and exteriors, Upward SW 6239 (224-C1) clears the way for lightweight open-mindedness when used in commercial settings,” says Wadden. “The hue serves as a reminder to pause and ponder limitless possibilities that can be unlocked in our work, dining, educational spaces, and beyond.”

Does Upward Inspire You?

If you like the peaceful, breezy mood conveyed by the Upward paint color and would like some help figuring out how to best use it in your spaces, just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399. I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this calm, subtle shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Have you been thinking about ways to get the most out of your backyard this fall? You can continue enjoying your outdoor spaces during the cooler months just by considering some of these ideas for your outdoor areas. If you’re not already set up for it, with a few considerations, you can change your outdoor living area to allow for year-round enjoyment.

Whether you are considering revamping your existing outdoor living area or are planning to build it from scratch, these ideas will help you create the perfect fall-friendly outdoor living space.

How to improve your fall outdoor living experience

By making some useful decisions for your outdoor living space’s design, you can maximize its functionality for use year-round. By adding some simple fresh design elements, your outdoor living area can be made to feel cozier too.

Backyard get-togethers with family and friends can continue throughout the cooler months. Use your outdoor living space as a spot to take a break from doing your fall chores like raking the leaves. Or just curl up beneath a blanket beside the warmth of a fire pit on a crisp fall day with a hot drink and a good book.

Here are some tips to improve your fall outdoor living experience.

Fire up the heat

An absolute essential to make your fall outdoor living experience more comfortable is a good heating source. When it’s chilly, nothing boosts the cozy feel of a space like adding some warmth to the area, especially if it’s generated by real flames. One such way is a fire feature, such as a fireplace, fire bowl, fire lantern, or fire cauldron.

Popular product choices to warm up an outdoor living area are fire pits (which also come in table and bowl designs), outdoor fireplaces, chimineas, propane patio heaters, and electrical heating appliances like infrared heaters.

You’ll naturally want to locate any heating sources as close to your seating and dining areas as possible.

A high-quality fire pit/table/bowl becomes the centerpiece of an outdoor room. It doesn’t only have a magnet-like effect on everyone because of the heat it provides, it also adds ambiance, a sophisticated touch, and visual appeal to an outdoor living space.

Before buying a heating product for your backyard, be sure to check on what your local laws allow for operating open fires. 

A heating source like a fire pit is essential for maximum comfort when using an outdoor living space in cooler seasonal times.

Enjoy your entertainment outdoors

An outdoor room with the right design can be used to bring the indoors outside and add another dimension to your home’s living space.

When coupled with a reliable heating source to help keep you warm and toasty, an outdoor living room can be used for longer into the year as an entertainment space.

Why not enjoy your favorite fall sporting events or a family movie night with your friends and family in the comfort of your backyard? An exterior entertainment space with an outdoor TV, a great audio system, and high-quality furniture creates a comfortable extension of your living space, bringing it from inside to outside.

To boost your comfort level, consider adding thermal outdoor curtains, or roller shade screens, which can usually be attached fairly easily to an outdoor living area’s overhead covering. They’ll help keep an outdoor living space’s heat in and are useful year-round for privacy, bug control, and blocking out the sun and wind. If you’re using a propane patio heater, just be sure the area has enough ventilation.

Have you considered an outdoor kitchen?

If you are planning on doing a lot of outdoor entertaining this fall, consider going beyond the BBQ and having an outdoor kitchen built. This can include a stove, sink, bar, and refrigerator, or just a grill and sink with seating for dining.

This not only encourages guests to stay outside and enjoy your backyard, but it expands your living space. The atmosphere that a pot of chili or steaming soup can add to the senses while enjoying a cozy fire is beyond words. And don’t forget the fleecy throws!

Any outdoor kitchen needs a good grill, so don’t cut corners when it comes to buying the most essential appliance in an outdoor cooking space.

Invest in a premium grill that provides a headache-free cooking experience. High-quality grills are more reliable and will:

• start up every time
• hold steady cooking temperatures
• cook food more quickly and efficiently than cheap grills
• allow you to grill foods at different temperatures with variable heating zones
• offer convenient features like smart tech and under-hood grill task lighting

Florida’s variable weather is a good reminder that your outdoor kitchen cabinet and countertop materials need to be of the highest quality to endure all weather conditions. Make sure to consult with me – I can help you find what’s most suitable for you and your needs.

Consider setting up a hot beverage station in your outdoor kitchen to feel cozier while spending time in your backyard enjoying chillier fall and winter days. Beverages like hot apple cider, hot chocolate, and pumpkin spice latte are perfect for autumn and will warm you up as you extend your fall outdoor living time.

I can help you design your outdoor kitchen so it’s available for convenient year-round use.

High-quality outdoor furniture is a must for your exterior living space

An outdoor living room’s furniture is another element where investing in higher-quality products will serve you better in the long run.

Changing and unpredictable weather conditions and harsh temperatures will take a toll on outdoor furniture, too, especially cheap furniture.

Spend a little extra to buy high-quality outdoor furniture that has everything you look for when buying indoor furniture, including comfort, visual appeal, and durability. The latter characteristic is a little more important with outdoor furniture, of course.

Prioritize buying outdoor furniture made with weather-resistant materials that will reduce the likelihood of the furniture rusting, developing mold, fading, and warping. These outdoor furniture materials are considered the most durable:

• powder-coated steel and aluminum
• wrought iron with a weather-resistant finish
• hardwoods such as teak, white oak, and eucalyptus
• polyresin wicker

Weather-resistant cushions are another essential for outdoor furniture. No one likes to sit on a hard surface at any time of the year and especially not when the weather is cooler. Metal furniture materials like wrought iron can feel ice-cold on a chilly day and cushions act as a welcome buffer.

Covering your outdoor seating area will not only provide you with much-needed shade from the Florida sun, but it will also help you keep in the heat when the temperatures start to drop. A cover such as a pergola or a large and sturdy umbrella will go a long way in keeping you comfortable while outdoors this fall. I’ll discuss more on this further down in the article.

Good exterior lighting is crucial for outdoor living enjoyment

As the days get shorter, the lights come on earlier. That makes having good lighting extra important for an outdoor living space that will be used during the fall.

Lighting that is dim and harsh can singlehandedly neutralize any of your efforts to make a deck or patio area feel cozier in the autumn with heating and some decorative upgrades. The look and feel of a space is hugely impacted by lighting and simply using more bulbs to brighten an area isn’t going to be a good strategy.

Incandescent and halogen lighting is considered by many to be outdated. Even relying solely on LEDs, today’s preferred exterior lighting choice, isn’t enough since there are a variety of bulb styles and colors that produce different results. Lighting also needs to be strategically located and thoughtfully considered.

I work with excellent lighting professionals who can help with your outdoor living area’s lighting. They’ll know how to achieve the best results so everything is well-lit for functionality and safety, as well as maximum enjoyment of your spaces. A pro will also know how to effectively highlight the best parts of an outdoor living space and its surrounding landscaping.

Cover your outdoor living spaces

Another of the essential fall outdoor living ideas to consider is adding an overhead covering for more comfort. A roof extension, covered pergola, cabana, gazebo, pavilion, or large awning are the most common solutions for covering an outdoor living space.

An outdoor living space should ideally have some sort of overhead covering to provide protection from the sun and rain during the summer, or any time when the weather conditions are enough to drive everyone inside.

An overhead covering also extends the life of your outdoor living products and allows you to continue using the grill year-round. When the weather won’t cooperate with your cooking plans, you won’t need to get out an umbrella before firing up the grill.

Lousy weather won’t limit the functionality of an outdoor living area if it’s got overhead covering.

It’s easy to add cozy fall touches

Cooler temperatures can make it harder to feel cozy in a space. Along with heating your patio area, add some decorative touches that incorporate fall-themed decor elements to infuse the outdoor living space with a cozier vibe.

It doesn’t take much effort to quickly change the look and feel of an outdoor space by getting creative with the décor. This can be done in several ways:

• switching out furniture cushions
• adding texture and softness to the space with outdoor area rugs, throw pillows, and blankets
• using fall-inspired colours on your furnishings to set a seasonal and festive mood
• adding seasonal accents like a table centerpiece and foliage garland
• light fall-themed candles to enhance the mood

Upgrade your fall outdoor living experience (for year-round enjoyment)

There’s no reason any outdoor living space shouldn’t be enjoyed throughout the year, especially in Florida!

All of the fall outdoor living ideas I’ve covered aren’t just practical in the autumn – they provide the same comfort and enjoyment benefits for whatever weather conditions come your way.

If you’re considering enhancing your outdoor spaces for year-round enjoyment, talk to me! Let me come by and see the areas you’re thinking of enhancing, and I guarantee I’ll have some ideas for you that will make your outdoor spaces delightful! 

These ideas are just the beginning of possibilities – let’s talk about it! Message me here, right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link, or you can email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com You can call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

With fall pretty much here, I wanted to share some of the top fall home style and decor trends for 2023, along with a few autumn decorating ideas.

Whether fall is your thing or you’re lamenting the end of summer, there are ways to add a touch of fall to your home without switching everything out or going with a “theme.”

And if you’re in the mood to shop for fall home decor, this is also a great time to find on-trend items that will make it easy to transition your home to the new season.

When is the best time to start decorating for fall?

I like to start scouting out the fall decorating trends in late August or early September, but I don’t usually get too excited about fall decorating until the weather cools down a bit — or at least by the first day of fall (which this year is Saturday, September 23).

Whenever you decide to start your fall decorating, you’ll find that adding a touch of fall style to your home can be easy.

Simply layer in some warmer, richer colors and weave in a few fall accents in a variety of textures to quickly transition your home from summer to fall.

What are the fall home decor style trends for 2023?

While summer home decor trends focused on a light organic feeling, this year’s fall home decor trends are all about interesting shapes, warm neutral tones, and luxurious textures.

As you explore these fall decorating trends, rather than feeling like you have to embrace an entire trend, think about how you might incorporate elements of the spaces that draw you in — whether it’s a certain color, item, look, or feeling.

Most of all, don’t worry about achieving a certain design style in your home. Rather, when decorating for fall — or any season — the goal should be to bring together a curated mix of pieces that perfectly reflects you, your lifestyle, and what you love.

1. Earth tones

Earth tones and warm neutrals are making a huge comeback in 2023, and that trend will continue to grow in popularity throughout this fall.

Warm tones of sand, mushroom, camel, terracotta, copper, oatmeal, muted greens, and similar neutrals complement just about every other color palette, making them the perfect addition to any space.

Whereas last year we were still seeing lots of gray and bold cool tones in fall home decor, this year is all about warmer, softer, muted tones.

The nice thing about this trend is that earth tones work with every style of decor and are hugely popular this year, thanks in part to both the modern organic design trend that is catching more attention.

So if you’ve already embraced neutrals and warmer hues in your home, you might not need to do much to update your home for fall!

2. Natural wood

The natural beauty of wood creates a welcoming and calming environment for fall.

And with the growing desire for lighter, airier spaces, wood adds a much-needed grounding effect.

Lighter, warmer wood tones are making a comeback, particularly in kitchen and bathroom cabinetry, while the popularity of gray-toned woods is on the wane.

However, don’t despair if you have gray-toned wood flooring or other elements in your home.

You can still easily warm things up by adding wood tones through coffee tables, side tables, chairs, and wood picture frames.

Adding elements like wooden counter stools and wood cutting boards are a great way to bring a touch of warmth to the kitchen.

3.  Woven elements

Woven elements in all their forms add softness to any space and are having a moment in 2023.  

Think baskets in all shapes and sizes, woven pendant lights, natural fiber rugs, and cane and rattan furniture.

Woven counter stools are a great way to bring the woven look to your home.

This beautiful space incorporates woven textures through the armchairs, coffee table, rug, and ottomans:

Woven pendant lights have been hugely popular for several years, and I don’t see this trend going anywhere soon.

Even something as simple as adding a chunky jute rug can bring a touch of warmth and visual interest to your space.

4. Textured fabrics and textiles are a great way to add some fall style

Once again, velvet, boucle, linen, and nubby textured fabrics are big in this year’s fall interior design style forecast, and I couldn’t be happier about this trend.

For an easy fall facelift, simply swap out your lighter-weight throws, bedding, rugs, and pillows for thicker, heavier versions.

Choosing natural fabrics with weight and texture, like chunky cotton and wool throws, nubby boucle, velvet, leather, and weightier linen pieces instantly make your home feel cozier — even if you prefer a cooler color palette.

Rich velvet pillows are a lovely way to bring a touch of warmth to a home space.  

Textured fabrics mix well with all other fabrics, bringing a grounding and timeless quality to a space that will continue to resonate with our lifestyles in fall 2023 and beyond.

Adding in a few textured cotton, linen, wool, or velvet pillow covers or throws is enough to give your living room or bedroom a touch of chic fall decor in an instant.

Sometimes, a few new pillows and a cozy throw blanket in a neutral fall shade are all you need to update your bedroom for the new season.

5.   Tonal color palettes for fall style in 2023

Tonal color palettes lend a cohesive, modern look to any space — and they’re one of the biggest design trends for fall 2023 into 2024.

If you want to experiment with this trend, try incorporating no more than three colors in a space, and then mixing and matching different textures, fabrics, woven elements, and natural materials within that tonal palette.

Choose your primary color scheme by pulling one to three colors from your area rug or a large piece of artwork; then keep the rest of the colors in your space in the same color range.

This trend ties in beautifully with the current popularity of earth tones in interior design, as blending different shades of warm neutrals is an easy and stylish way to modernize your spaces.

To create a layered look and add dimension, layer in pillows, throws, and other accent pieces within your chosen color palette.

For a modern look, you might choose all three shades within the same color family for a monochromatic effect, or add in one to two other complementary colors for a more traditional look.

If you’d like to add a bit of contrast to your spaces, think about adding a pop of black, via pendant lighting, a coffee table, lamp, side table, counter stools, or small decorative items.

Cutting boards, vases, and kitchen accents in black and neutral tones bring a modern fall look to the kitchen:

6. Mixing vintage and modern

Another decorating trend you’ll see this fall is the incorporation of vintage pieces, like the beautiful antique dresser shown in the bedroom below, within an otherwise modern space.

The unique blending of different design elements makes a space feel collected and unique.

Vintage rugs are a great way to bring a warm aesthetic and visual interest to a space.

If you’d like to add a few vintage pieces to your home, Etsy is a good starting point and a great source for one-of-a-kind vintage and antique textiles, art, rugs, furniture, and decorative accents.

7.  Coastal grandmother style

The coastal grandma home and lifestyle trend emerged last year and continues to grow in popularity. Okay, in theory, this is a theme. But it’s mainly a state of mind. It’s easy, relaxed, and done up to be attractive. Nothing wrong with any of that, and it pretty much transcends most of the other themes out there. Like I said, a state of mind…

Coastal grandmother style is all about a relaxed, elevated approach to home decor, clothing, and living — and it’s a look and lifestyle everyone can embrace —even if you don’t live near the coast and/or aren’t a grandmother!

Coastal grandmother interiors might include easy-care white slipcovered furniture, neutral tones of the sand and sea, and natural and organic elements — all of which speak to a more relaxed, thoughtful, intentional way of living and decorating. Think of it as charming, accessible, quiet luxury.

8. Curves continue through fall 2023 

Any discussion of 2023 design trends wouldn’t be complete without mentioning curves. It’s a more humanistic, softening aesthetic that we’ve been seeing over the years, much like bringing in nature. I feel like these are probably a continued response to the covid years, and we’re all still wanting and needing a hug.

This fall, we’ll continue to see plenty of curved chairs and sofas, rounded edges on coffee tables, curved accent pieces and mirrors, as well as interesting architectural features like arched doorways, curved cabinet fronts, and curved kitchen island countertops.

Curves lend a modern look to a space, as well as creating a sense of softness and nurturing.  

However, don’t feel like you have to go all out with arches and curves if you’re on the fence about this aesthetic.

There are plenty of simple ways to bring this design trend to your home through accent pieces like mirrors, stools, coffee tables, dining chairs, and ottomans, as well as smaller decorative items like orbs and lamps, as shown in the beautiful room below.

Simple updates can add a lot of fall style and warmth

I hope this post shows that incorporating this year’s fall home decor trends in your home doesn’t have to take a lot of time or cost a lot of money.  

With just a few simple changes, you can easily update your home with warm and welcoming fall style on a budget.  Even adding a single accent pillow or throw in a rich color or texture can make a big difference.

I hope these fall decor ideas help you find simple cost-effective ways to dress up your home for a warm, cozy mood this fall season! If you’d like me to help you update your home or office decor with some fall styling, contact me. You can choose a contact method right below this blog post. And feel free to give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399, and we can explore some lovely fall decor ideas together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also click this link to message me via my website.

Dramatic and moody, yet tranquil and grounded, Cascades’ versatility carries a wide range of design styles. Embrace the serene atmosphere inspired by its soothing shade.

Why I love it: Dramatic, Versatile, Serene

The Great Indoors

Bring the timeless and simple beauty of the outdoors in with September’s palette and style. Cascades’ dark, majestic green-blue is the perfect shade for naturalist living style. A nature-loving design deserves a gorgeous green hue like this one that envelops interiors with a lush and dramatic feel. As the grounding color of this collection, Cascades has a refined, balanced tone that can stand out on its own or set the stage for the other colors in the collection to shine.

Get the Look: Greenery, Organic Shapes, Wicker

Natural Style

Rooted in modern organic style, this look is all about creating cozy, harmonious spaces inspired by nature. Cascades is the perfect shade for grounding the space and evoking outdoor vibes. Pair with a soothing gray-green like Evergreen Fog to soften the look and create a nurturing, fresh atmosphere. To really capture the essence of the style, lean into its organic side with soft textures, natural materials and earthy accent tones to make your space feel lived-in, warm and welcoming.

Get the Look: Natural Materials, Layered Earth Tones, Textured Fabrics

These colors coordinate well with Sherwin-Williams’ dramatic and moody Cascades (SW 7623) paint color.

If you like the dramatic, moody depth conveyed by the Cascades paint color and would like some help figuring out how to best use it in your spaces, just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399. I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this rich, tranquil shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Why I love Silvermist (SW 7621): Serene. Cool. Relaxed.

Just like the surf that inspired it, Silvermist’s cool tone can look both blue and green. You’ll be ready to embrace both as you drift away on the coastal vibes of this gentle hue that’s so serene, you’ll be dreaming of breezy ocean air.

See How Silvermist Enhances These Rooms.

Silvermist is a calming, breezy hue that evokes everything “ocean”, from the color of the sea, to gentle ocean breezes, to the lovely blue-green patina of ocean glass.

The Seaside Style of Silvermist

The August palette brings the ocean home with just the right balance of delicate hues for creating a relaxed modern coastal space. At the center, you’ll find Silvermist (SW 7621). Its soft, misty blend of blue-green and slate gray undertones gives this hue an effortless versatility that makes it the perfect base color for evoking the casual, calming atmosphere of this look.

Get the Look: Nautical Details, Wicker Furnishings, Greenery

Silvermist Invites You to Relax into Laid-Back Living

Kick back and soak up the easy vibe of a seaside style that’s meant to feel relaxed, refreshing, and full of endless possibilities – just like the California coast. The beachy feel of this palette really starts to roll in as you begin to play with the lighter coordinate hues that echo Silvermist’s delicate undertones. Layer the soft gray of Drift of Mist with an iconic surf spray-inspired color like Sea Salt for a light and airy feel as breezy and bright as a summer day at the beach.

Get the Look: Ocean Photography, Simplicity, Clean Lines

Inviting Coastal Shades

Pay homage to classic coastal Nantucket navy with Big Dipper, a captivating coordinate color that’s just as much at home in Florida as it is in Maine. This alluring hue’s dark blue inkiness makes the perfect moody backdrop reminiscent of the depths of the sea. Embrace the enveloping, cozy feel it creates by pairing with warm wood tones and natural materials, and, to bring a note of harmony, carry Silvermist’s calming tone into the space through accents (bottle and books on the dining table).

Get the Look: Driftwood, Weathered Wood, Striped Pattern

These colors coordinate well with Sherwin-Williams’ easy, breezy Silvermist (SW 7621) paint color.

Draw a relaxing bath with Silvermist setting the stage to wash away any stresses of the day.

If you like the feel of calm, coastal ocean breezes that you get from the Silvermist paint color and would like some help figuring out how/where to use it, just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399. I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this relaxing, serene color territory together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Make more space in your bedroom or guest room – or any 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.

As you’ll see, there are a lot of considerations in choosing the right bed for the right space, and the desired result. Remember, I’m always here to help you determine what will work best for you, your needs, and critically important, your spaces.

What Is a Murphy Bed?

A Murphy bed mounts to the wall and features a folding mechanism to raise and lower the mattress as needed. When not in use, the bed may appear to look like a cabinet or built-in shelving.

Before Buying a Murphy Bed

When assessing your room, you may have realized you have a need to maximize your floor space. A Murphy bed is a great option for accomplishing this, since these beds fold up and out of the way when not in use. They’re often installed in guest rooms or offices that double as sleeping quarters for overnight visitors. However, you might consider buying a Murphy bed for a primary bedroom if you want to make the most out of the square footage you have available. In addition, tiny houses or studio living spaces can benefit from a Murphy bed. Set up your bed before you turn in for the night, then fold it up during the day to enjoy more room in your living space.

Buying Considerations for Murphy Beds

Room Layout

It’s important to consider your room layout when picking a Murphy bed. You should measure the dimensions of the space before you start your search. Most Murphy beds fold vertically, so you’ll need to know how much space you have to work with from the floor to the ceiling. Horizontal-folding Murphy beds are an option if you have low ceiling heights.

If your plan is to use a Murphy bed as a solution for a small space, then pay attention to the fully extended length of the bed when it is open. Be sure that you have enough space to open the bed and access it, including the end of the bed to raise it back up.

Material

Murphy beds can be made of various materials, including solid wood, manufactured wood or particleboard, and metal. Solid wood is one of the most durable options, but it’s also very heavy. Manufactured wood or particleboard is lighter, but may have a lower maximum weight limit and some long-term durability issues. Metal Murphy beds are durable and usually are paired with a wood cabinet or shelves.

Opening Mechanism

The lifting mechanism is one of the most important things to consider when shopping for a Murphy bed. Typically, these beds will feature one of the following lifts: piston (hinge) or spring. Alternatively, some Murphy beds have a manual opening mechanism, which means that you raise and lower the bed using your own strength.

Spring opening mechanisms were the first common lift for Murphy beds. The resistance of the spring can usually be adjusted to make it easier to raise the bed. Most modern spring-assisted opening mechanisms have features to prevent their sudden retraction.

A piston-lifting system uses pressurized arms and is an easy way to lift and lower a Murphy bed. Many piston-equipped beds have a locking mechanism that keeps the bed securely stored away when not in use.

Manual opening mechanisms are the simplest, with no springs or pistons to adjust. However, this means you’ll be supporting the full weight of the mattress and frame as you raise or lower the bed. For this reason, some manufacturers of Murphy beds with manual opening mechanisms recommend always having two people to set-up or store the bed.

Features

Integrated features can help you make the most of Murphy bed set-up. One of the appealing features when shopping for a Murphy bed might be storage, especially if you’re outfitting a studio space. Shelves or cabinets built into the side, bottom, or top of the frame surrounding the bed can give you space for storing blankets, bedding, clothes, or other essential items. Some Murphy beds offer a multi-tasking exterior design, giving you a built-in desk to use while the bed is not in use. Integrated LED lighting is another common feature, and especially helpful if you want the option to read in bed.

Styles of Murphy Beds

Wall Bed

While it’s true that the terms Murphy bed and wall bed can be used interchangeably to refer to a mounted bed, a wall bed is sometimes also used to describe a specific style of Murphy bed. Wall beds are usually integrated into a fixture that spans the majority, if not the entire span, of the wall. When closed, a wall bed may look like cabinets, a shelving unit, or a bookcase.

This style of Murphy bed might be an ideal option for someone that wants an inconspicuous look. The built-in look of the fixture conceals the fact that a bed is tucked inside. Wall beds that take up the majority (or all) of a wall are often more expensive and sometimes must be custom-built for a truly integrated look.

Cabinet Bed

Another style of Murphy bed is the cabinet bed. These beds may or may not be fixed to the wall; some are freestanding cabinets into which the bed folds. A cabinet bed is a more versatile option when compared to a larger, installed Murphy bed. It is a better choice for renters or anyone who lacks the wall space to install a mounted version. However, they may lack the size or some of the stability and storage offered by wall beds.

Cost

The cost of a Murphy bed varies, based mainly on its size and materials. For a queen-size Murphy bed made of solid wood, you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $4,000. If you opt for a Murphy bed constructed of manufactured wood or particle board, the cost will be somewhat lower, perhaps between $1,000 and $1,800.

Other factors that influence product pricing include the opening mechanism (or lack thereof). Piston-assisted lifting systems increase the price of a Murphy bed while manual opening mechanisms are the most basic and cost-effective option. Finally, integrations such as storage or lighting can also add to the cost of a Murphy bed.

How to Choose a Murphy Bed

Murphy beds have experienced a resurgence in popularity since their first introduction to the mainstream market about a century ago. This has been spurred on by a variety of factors, including the move to maximize space and efficiency that has been part of the tiny house movement. As a result, you have many choices, depending on your specific needs and budget. When choosing a Murphy bed, you should consider the factors that will make the bed functional, user-friendly, and stylish for your space. Here are some of the most common factors to think about when choosing a Murphy bed.

Horizontal vs. Vertical

Start by determining whether you’re looking for a horizontal or vertical wall bed. This refers to the orientation of the mattress. Vertical wall beds are the most common and the foot of the bed raises and lowers. They take up less space on the wall, but use more space in the room when fully extended. Horizontal wall beds offer an alternative, especially in rooms that don’t have a lot of depth. These beds fold along their long edge, rather than raising and lowering the foot of the bed.

Mattress size

Murphy beds are made in sizes to match standard mattress sizing. You can find twin, full, queen, and king wall beds, although it’s worth pointing out that twin or queen size beds are the most common sizes. When shopping for a Murphy bed, keep in mind that you’ll also need to make sure your mattress depth is compatible with the design of the bed. Most Murphy beds can accommodate mattresses between 8 and 12 inches.

Will you have help to lower or raise the bed?

Keep in mind that Murphy beds can be heavy, especially when you factor in the weight of a mattress. Think about whether you will be doing the job of raising and lowering the bed alone or with the help of someone else. If you’ll be setting up and storing the bed on your own, then it makes sense to look for a lifting mechanism that can assist or is designed to be used by one person.

How often will you use the Murphy bed?

Consider whether or not you’re buying a Murphy bed for use every night or as an option for occasional guests. A freestanding, cabinet-style Murphy bed might be a better choice in an office that is regularly used for purposes other than sleeping visitors. But if the Murphy bed is going to be used every night in your bedroom or living space, then you might have additional needs for comfort, ease of use, or storage.

Other storage or functional uses

Are there things that you hope the Murphy bed will accomplish, besides being a comfortable place to end the day? If you are short on closet or storage space, then choosing a wall bed with integrated storage can make a big difference. Your bed linens or other items can be stored in the cabinets or drawers. Open shelves can be used for decor items or books. In addition, some wall beds are multi-functional furniture pieces, doubling as a desk or workspace.

Where to Shop

Buying In-Store

If you’re shopping for a Murphy bed in store, you’ll have the chance to check out its finish and function before buying. You should be able to see the bed in open and closed configurations and check out the lifting mechanism for yourself. It’s likely that you’ll be buying the bed in boxes, with final assembly completed at home. Some stores may offer white glove delivery to streamline the process.

Buying Online

The greatest variety of Murphy beds are available online. You’ll have more styles and finishes to choose from. Since you’re gathering details from a website, pay special attention to the dimensions, lifting mechanism, terms of any applicable warranty or return policies. You should also consider how much assembly will be required and whether or not the company offers white glove delivery.

Where to Buy a Murphy Bed

There are a variety of retailers that sell Murphy beds. If you want to buy a wall bed in person, then your best bet is likely to be a regional or national furniture store. Many more online retailers sell wall beds. Wayfair and Amazon are two of the most popular places to shop online for Murphy beds, but you can also find them at the online shopping sites for major retailers like Costco, Walmart, and Home Depot. You can also shop online with retailers that exclusively or primarily sell wall beds, such as Lori Wall Beds, BredaBeds, or Resource Furniture.

Tips to Consider When Decorating a Room with a Murphy Bed

Why I love Kale Green (SW 6460): botanical, lush, tropical.

Walk on the wild side with a dose of Sherwin-Williams’ tropical treasure, Kale Green.

Kale Green’s lush tone feels like it was picked straight from the tropics and placed into a maximalist oasis where no rules are the rules.

Kale Green’s Botanical Beauty is Alive with Color

Make room for more of what you love with a style and color that brings the fun in an eclectic but elevated way. Kale Green’s lush shade (SW 6460) adds just the right amount of drama for a maximalist look that rides on tropical boho vibes. Whether you use a lot or a little of this hue, it makes a vibrant statement that sets the mood for your space. In a style that invites you to go for it, be sure to bring it with color!

Get the Look: Global Patterns, Rattan Furnishings, Tropical Greenery

Create a Lushly Layered Tropical Vibe by Pairing Kale Green with Other Coordinating Colors

Bold color transforms spaces. A dark neutral like Black Magic has the power to transport. Anchor your maximalist-influenced bathroom in this hue’s dark tone and watch as the brighter shades in the palette combine to create the carefree feel of a tropical escape. Alabaster provides a clean backdrop to heighten the pleasing sense of contrast and acts as a blank canvas. Just a bit of Kale Green amplifies the botanical tone of the foliage and artwork, while a tiny dose of Peppery’s fiery shade pops as an accent. Bringing these tropical pairings together brings an elevated but attainable feel.

Get the Look: Tropical Foliage, Bold Color, Gold Accents

Let this Inviting Shade Set the Stage

When you’re working with such a gorgeous green, why not use it to greet your guests? Kale Green’s dialed-up energy sets the stage for your maximalist story to unfold inside and brings your front porch space alive with a little inspiration from the wild outdoors. Along with just a touch of Peppery, these bolder colors pop against the bright surrounding shade of Alabaster, and create a seamless and harmonious flow to what awaits.

Get the Look: Rattan Furnishings, Global Patterns, Greenery

These colors coordinate well with Sherwin-Williams’ tropical Kale Green (SW 6460) paint color.

If you like the lush color vibe you get from the Kale Green paint color and would like some help figuring out how/where to use it, just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399. I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this lovely, colorful territory together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Take care of your plants, and they will take care of you by absorbing toxins and formaldehyde and generally cleansing the air you breathe.

How would you like to breathe easier and cleaner at home or in your office? You can do so by adding some selected house plants to your environment. Certain house plants are better than others at adding oxygen to your living space and improving the overall air quality in that space.

House Plants Do Clean the Air

The science behind this suggestion has been around for decades and actually started with a trio of investigators with NASA and the Associated Landscape Contractors of America. They reported that specific house plants were good at removing off-gassing elements from building materials and furnishings as well as air pollutants.

Plants are a natural air purifier because they produce oxygen from carbon dioxide (which you exhale) while also helping remove toxins from the air. Tiny openings in the leaves take in air, and the plant absorbs the carbon dioxide and other substances from that air.

While the plant uses carbon dioxide to make food, it then releases oxygen and water back into the air. Pollutants, on the other hand, are translocated to the roots of the plant, where they may be broken down, used by the plant, or released into the soil.

The use of plants to remove harmful elements from the air is called phytoremediation. If you want to breathe easier at home or at work, feel good about the air you breathe and know you are providing yourself and your family with better air quality, then consider adding one or more of the following air-purifying plants to your home or office space. We will even tell you how to make that plant flourish so you can reap the most benefits from it.

Which House Plants Can Clean the Air?

Aloe Vera: This succulent is probably best known for its ability to help in the treatment of burns and cuts. However, it also takes in benzene and formaldehyde.

If you want a healthy aloe vera, keep it in a sunny place. It also should be planted in a pot with many drainage holes, because the plant does not do well in standing water.

Areca Palm: This tropical plant can live in just about any indoor environment. It has broad fronds that are adept at absorbing formaldehyde, toluene, and xylene.

Be aware, however, that the areca palm can top seven feet in height. If you purchase a small plant, it will grow about 6 to 10 inches a year in indirect sunlight. These plants do enjoy water and fertilizer.

Bamboo Palm: This plant loves the tropics as well as bright, indirect sunlight. Placing the bamboo palm in your environment will help remove trichloroethylene, a toxin that can damage the kidneys and liver.

Care for your bamboo palm by watering it when the soil is dry. Never overwater the palm or let it sit in water, or it will rot.

Boston Ferns: This frond-rich plant does more than improve oxygen levels. The Boston fern also assists in removing formaldehyde from the air. Exposure to formaldehyde is associated with irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, which suggests having a few Boston ferns in any area prone to formaldehyde exposure could be helpful.

Items associated with formaldehyde exposure include cigarettes, carpet, permanent press fabrics, cleaning agents, fertilizers, cosmetics, paints, varnishes, preserved foods, and insulation for electrical uses.

If you welcome a Boston fern into your environment, be prepared to give it a lot of space. The beautiful fronds enjoy soil that is rich in peat moss and is watered frequently and stays wet. You also should mist the plant once or twice a week for best growth.

Gerber (aka, Gerbera) Daisies: If you like to color-coordinate your space, then Gerber daisies could be a good choice. These flowers are available in a variety of colors (e.g., bright red or orange, yellow, medium and striking pink, peach, light purple, and white) and sport broad, green leaves that absorb benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air.

Gerber daisies enjoy direct sunlight and moist soil. For best results, don’t allow the soil to dry between waterings.

Peace Lilies: Do you know which pollutants are lurking in your home or office? If two of them are benzene and trichloroethylene, then it’s time to get some peace lilies.

If you want to grow this beautiful plant, you should know they do not tolerate the cold and that they enjoy a warm, humid climate. They thrive in well-draining soil and indirect light. They can be toxic to pets and humans, so it’s important to wash your hands after touching the plant, and not place them in a home with pets.

Snake Plant (aka, mother-in-law’s tongue): The snake plant comes in a combination of yellow and dark and light greens. It effectively removes formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, xylene, and trichloroethylene from the air. These toxins are often present in enclosed buildings.

This tough plant likes dry soil, so don’t water it too often because the roots can easily rot. Avoid getting the leaves wet when watering. Snake plants prefer indirect light.

Spider Plant: If you want a plant that is super resilient and easy to care for, this is the one. Spider plants can absorb many different indoor pollutants while gracing your room with its long, flowing leaves.

Be sure to give your spider plant lots of bright yet indirect light. It does best in well-drained soil and when the soil is allowed to dry out between waterings.

Weeping Fig: This official tree of Bangkok will look great and perform well in any room, but especially those with carpeting and furniture that may be off-gassing. That’s because the weeping fig helps remove pollutants from these items.

You can keep your weeping fig healthy by providing consistent temperatures and lots of indirect sunlight. Provide the plant with well-draining soil and only water it when the first two inches of soil are dry.

Bottom Line

Using house plants in your home or office is a great, eco-friendly way to clean the air of toxins.

If you’d like to explore how plants can clean the air and brighten your interiors, I’m always available for a consultation to help you decide on the best plants for your levels of light, ease of maintenance, and other conditions in your home or business. There are many options and almost always perfect solutions for any space. If interested, let’s talk more about decorating with plants that can cleanse the air you breathe. Choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com And you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

Why I love Sherman-Williams’ Wallflower paint color: it’s a lovely retro, joyful, pastel.

Embrace your inner flower child with a purple pastel who’s anything but shy. This retro muse can lift the mood with a feel-good energy that finds joy in everything. 

Wallflower Gives You Happy Vibes

Slip away from the stress of the outside world and unwind in a simpler space. Rooted in a philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection and joy in the little things, the pastel Wabi-Sabi style blends a minimalist approach with muted pastels. Wallflower’s soft purple shade fits right in with a calming aura that sets the tone in a restorative sanctuary space. Add natural materials to balance the room’s tranquil energy with an earthiness that helps keep this dreamy hue grounded.

Wallflower is Positively Pastel

An uplifting hue like Wallflower (SW 6281) shares its playful spirit wherever it goes. Take a small secondary space that can feel like an afterthought, and once filled with this shade’s happy vibes, it becomes a bliss-filled haven. Feel-good spaces like this lift the spirit and remind us of the unique capacity of color to inspire joy.

These colors coordinate well with Sherwin-Williams’ pale lavender Wallflower paint color.

If you like the color vibe you get from the Wallflower paint color and would like some help figuring out how/where to use it, just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399. I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this colorful territory together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also click this link to message me via my website.