Globally Inspired Styles with the Soul of Aligned Design

I’ve always been inspired by global design styles — the way they gather beautiful stories, textures, and colors from around the world. Each piece, from the art to the decor, carries a story, inviting us to connect with different cultures and experiences, weaving a rich tapestry of meaning into our spaces.

In my philosophy of Aligned Design, we focus not just on beauty, but on creating environments that resonate deeply with who we are and what we value. Global style naturally supports this, helping us forge a connection — not only to the wider world but also to ourselves.

When we Connect through design, we invite a sense of unity, belonging, and soulful alignment into our homes. A space becomes more than just a place to live — it becomes a reflection of the beauty of the world and the peace within us.

This blending of global inspiration and inner resonance is, to me, a new design frontier — one that honors the world’s diversity while supporting our personal journey toward deeper connection and authenticity.

If you love global design styles, you’re in good company — I do too. There’s something magical about how they bring together beautiful stories, textures, and colors from all around the world. Every piece tells a story and adds a little soul to your space.

At the same time, Aligned Design is all about creating spaces that don’t just look good — they feel good. It’s about making sure your home reflects deeper values and feels true to who you are.

So how do these two come together?
Global style helps you Connect — with the world, with different cultures, and most importantly, with yourself. It brings a sense of unity and meaning into your home, creating a space that’s as rich in spirit as it is in beauty.

It’s like giving your space a passport and a purpose — globally inspired, soulfully aligned.

Connecting Globally Inspired Style and Aligned Design

There’s a natural connection between globally inspired design and Aligned Design. Styles from places like Morocco, Greece, Turkey, India, and Mexico — and the free-spirited vibe of Bohemian design — bring so much heart, color, and story into a space.

When you blend that with the idea of Aligned Design — creating spaces that feel as good as they look — you get something really special. Spaces that aren’t just beautiful, but full of meaning, soul, and connection. It’s a way of living that feels good inside and out.

The Beauty of Art

Globally inspired and Bohemian styles are all about weaving together rich stories from around the world. With their layers of color, texture, and soul, they create spaces that feel alive and full of meaning. Bohemian style, with its free-spirited, eclectic energy, adds a playful depth that fits beautifully with my Aligned Design philosophy — creating spaces that don’t just look good, but feel like home for your soul.

My energy art is designed to complement these styles — capturing the beauty and essence of Moroccan, Greek, Turkish, Indian, Mexican, and Bohemian influences. Each piece is layered with fractal energy art, helping you stay aligned with who you truly are and supporting your goals energetically.

In my Connect Through a Tapestry of Modern Global Styles collection, you’ll find art inspired by these rich traditions, each one infused with energy and meaning — a perfect way to connect to the world and yourself, through your space.

Explore the collection here: Connect Through a Tapestry of Modern Global Styles

The Science of Color

Color plays a huge role in how a space feels — and it’s a big part of my Aligned Design philosophy. The vibrant palettes of globally inspired and Bohemian styles naturally create a sense of harmony and energy.

Think of the calming blues and whites of Greek interiors, the rich patterns and warmth of Turkish and Bohemian textiles, or the joyful bursts of color in Indian and Mexican design. Each one tells a story — and when we use color with intention, it creates a space that feels alive and balanced.

That’s the same approach I take with my energy art. Every color is chosen with care to support alignment, well-being, and connection — so your space doesn’t just look beautiful, it feels like a reflection of your true self.

The Energy of Well Being

Every global style carries its own special energy. Greek interiors bring a sense of calm and serenity. Bohemian spaces celebrate creativity and freedom. Moroccan design adds a touch of the exotic, Turkish interiors wrap you in warmth, Indian decor radiates spirituality, and Mexican design bursts with life and joy.

Through Aligned Design, we tap into these beautiful energies and blend them with what you need to feel supported, balanced, and at home. My energy art brings it all together — combining the beauty and spirit of these styles with intentional energy that helps you align with your highest well-being.

Surround yourself with the energy that lifts you up — every single day.

Personal Reflection, Growth and Alignment

At its heart, Aligned Design is about creating spaces that reflect who you truly are and support you as you grow into who you’re meant to be.

Globally inspired styles, with their deep cultural roots, and the free-spirited nature of Bohemian design offer the perfect canvas. They give you room to create an environment that tells your story — a space that evolves with you, grows with you, and helps you stay connected to your personal journey.

Because when your space aligns with your soul, it becomes a powerful part of your transformation.

Sustainability and Connection to Nature

Many global styles naturally focus on sustainability, and Bohemian design brings in its own love of upcycling and creative reuse. It all fits beautifully with Aligned Design’s eco-friendly approach — creating spaces that are not only good for you but good for the planet too.

Natural materials like Turkish textiles, Greek stonework, Indian silks, Mexican crafts, and the earthy charm of vintage Bohemian pieces help keep your space connected to nature. These elements don’t just look beautiful — they create a more harmonious energy that supports you, instead of working against you.

Bringing nature into your space can be simple and powerful. My energy art captures the spirit of flora, fauna, and the wisdom of Animal Medicine, adding layers of meaning and energy. Pair it with plants and natural elements in your decor, and you create a space that feels fresh, grounded, and alive — a true sanctuary for your soul.

In connecting to nature, we find a deeper connection to ourselves — calm, grounded, and alive.

The Results

At its core, the rich colors, stories, and patterns of global styles fit perfectly with the heart of Aligned Design. By combining art, science, and energy, we create spaces that aren’t just beautiful to look at — they lift your spirit and feel alive with meaning.

The result? Spaces that captivate the eye, uplift the heart, and resonate with the energy of who you truly are.

Ready to Create Your Globally Inspired Aligned Design?

Are you ready to take your home to a whole new level — one that not only looks beautiful but feels amazing and lifts you up to be your best self?

Imagine a space that’s tailored just for you — where every detail reflects your sense of beauty, the colors feel just right, and the energy supports your dreams. That’s what Aligned Design is all about. It’s the magic that happens when art, science, and energy come together to create a space that truly resonates with you.

Now picture fine-tuning your environment to boost your prosperity, well-being, love, and personal expression — all through thoughtful design and intentional energy. When your space is aligned, you’re aligned — and that’s when life starts flowing in beautiful ways.

Global style interior design plays a big part in this. It brings rich stories, soulful textures, and vibrant energy into your home — helping you create a space that’s not only beautiful but deeply, authentically you.

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What is a Global Design Style?

Global styles capture the essence of your adventures across the world, weaving together a tapestry of your experiences and stories. Characterized by vibrant hues, they radiate with the boldness of designs inspired by various cultures, suffused with rich textures and patterns. Every item isn’t just a decor piece; it’s a narrative, sparking curiosity and conversations.

Instead of adhering to a strict theme, treasures find their place without being confined by their origin. It’s a harmonious chaos where antiques cozy up to contemporary pieces, and nature plays its part—be it through the rugged beauty of animal horns, the serene presence of plants, or the raw allure of stones.

Although the heart of global design revels in its eclectic nature—melding elements from myriad cultures—certain colors and cultural symbols might resonate more deeply with you, reflecting your unique journeys and preferences. This design approach isn’t about uniformity; it’s about personal expression, celebrating diversity, memories, and the beautiful mosaic of worldwide cultures.

Examples of Global Style

Global design styles are a treasure trove of cultural richness and diversity. Here are some of my favorite styles and why I like them.

1. Bohemian: Rooted in a free-spirited and unconventional ethos, the Bohemian style celebrates individuality. It’s marked by an eclectic mix of vibrant colors, mismatched patterns, and a blend of old and new. Common elements include macrame hangings, colorful textiles, and layered rugs.

2. Turkish: Turkish design radiates with opulence and intricate detailing. Think of ornate lanterns, sumptuous kilim rugs, and Iznik tiles with their intricate blue and red motifs. Brass and copperware, often with intricate engravings, are also hallmarks.

3. Moroccan: This style evokes the allure of a desert oasis. Key elements include geometric mosaics, lanterns, carved wooden pieces, and rich textiles in deep reds, oranges, and blues. Arched doorways and lush courtyards complete the look.

4. Mexican: Bursting with vivid colors, Mexican interiors draw from its indigenous cultures and Spanish colonial influences. Hand-painted Talavera tiles, rustic wooden furniture, and vibrant textiles are central, along with folk art pieces and pottery.

5. Greek: Greek design channels the serene beauty of the Mediterranean. Bright white and deep blue are dominant colors, reminiscent of the iconic Santorini landscapes. Elements include airy linens, hand-painted ceramics, and rustic wooden details.

6. Indian: Indian interiors are a tapestry of rich hues, intricate patterns, and spiritual motifs. Brass lamps, colorful silk textiles, carved wooden furniture, and ornamental mirrors are typical. The vibrant colors—saffron, turquoise, and fuchsia—are inspired by Indian festivals and landscapes.

 

A common thread that binds these styles is the emphasis on craftsmanship and the use of natural materials, making them perfect for eco-friendly and sustainable designs. The use of wool, silk, wood, bone, and stone, among others, underscores a deep connection to the earth and traditional artisanal practices.

So, which ones resonates with your personal experiences, aesthetic preferences, and the ambiance you want to create?

Each style has its unique charm, narrative, and essence. Which one feels like home to you? Which one ignites your wanderlust or brings back cherished memories?

 

Let’s Create Your Global Style Design

Are you ready to transform your home into a sanctuary that not only looks amazing but also uplifts and supports you? Imagine that.

Think about living in a space that truly reflects who you are. How does it make you feel?

My approach to interior design, called Aligned Design, revolves around three key elements: art, science, and energy. It’s at the intersection of these three where the magic happens.

Creating a space that embraces your unique sense of beauty, color, and energy while attracting positivity in the form of prosperity, well-being, love, and self-expression aligns you with the universe. This alignment empowers you to lead your best life and make a positive impact on the world.

Global-style interior design, a part of this creative journey, is something you’ll truly enjoy as we embark on creating a space that’s perfectly tailored to you.

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Whether you’re committed to reducing your carbon footprint or simply want a safe, healthy home for your family, eco-friendly remodeling is a smart choice. Eco-friendly home improvements save money and energy, and limit the amount of harmful toxins that enter your home. Eco-friendly homes also command a premium when it’s time to sell; according to the Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance, energy-efficient homes net 3.5% to 9% more per square foot than typical homes.

As you plan your next remodel, consider investing in one of these eco-friendly home improvements.

Increase natural light

There’s a reason people are drawn to homes flooded with natural light. Sunlight is energizing and uplifting, but you don’t have to go outdoors to enjoy its benefits. Increasing natural light in the home brings the sun indoors and decreases electricity usage, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and living rooms.

There are a few ways to bring more natural light into your home, including adding skylights or solar tubes, replacing solid doors with glass, or installing new windows. Talk to an architect to make the best choice for your home’s design.

Replace old carpet with green flooring

Carpeting is inexpensive, but those short-term cost savings can lead to long-term consequences. Synthetic carpet releases volatile organic compounds that harm air quality and human health. Synthetic carpeting also won’t biodegrade when it’s eventually thrown away. Natural materials like hardwood, bamboo, cork, and stone or ceramic tile are better flooring options for an eco- and human-friendly home. If you can’t give up the feel of carpet underfoot, choose materials certified with the Green Label or Green Plus Label from the Carpet and Rug Institute.

Redecorate with low-VOC paint

Paint is another big contributor to VOCs in the home. The next time you want to refresh a room’s look, choose a zero-VOC paint like Bioshield or Sherwin-Williams’ Harmony line.

Upgrade to energy-efficient windows

When you’re remodeling to save money and energy, nothing sucks energy worse than old, drafty windows. Upgrading to double-pane windows can save homeowners $126 to $465 a year in energy costs, and springing for energy-efficient windows adds another $27-$111 in yearly savings. In addition to keeping drafts out, energy-efficient windows have coatings that block the sun’s ultraviolet rays, protecting your stuff — and you — from sun damage.

Add an energy-efficient laundry room

Laundry rooms increasingly top buyers’ list of most-wanted home features. Turn a corner of the basement into a laundry room, or stack a washer and dryer in a first-floor cabinet for easy access. Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances in the process, choosing an ENERGY STAR washer and dryer to save money on your monthly utility bills.

Install a tankless water heater

Your hot water heater is the unsung hero of your home, providing hot water for baths, dishes, and laundry at a moment’s notice. It’s also one of the biggest energy users. Switching to a tankless water heater can reduce energy consumption 8-34% depending on how much water your family uses, leading to about $100 in annual savings. Not only that, but you’ll never have to worry about running out of hot water again.

Keep in mind that tankless water heaters have lower flow rates than traditional water heaters. As a result, you may need to install multiple tankless water heaters to ensure adequate pressure.

Don’t Forget Your Furnishings and Accessories

You can use eco-friendly Interior Design to include eco-friendly furnishings and accessories in your home. See the article, “Eco-Friendly Interior Design– Why it Matters” by Mary Ann Benoit of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design to learn more.

Eco-friendly home upgrades can seem expensive upfront. However, these home improvements pay for themselves over time. Not only do homeowners save on monthly energy bills, they also get to cash in on the high demand for energy-efficient homes when they sell. Instead of shying away from green remodeling, invest in eco-friendly upgrades the next time you renovate.

Written by guest blogger Ray Flynn of the DiyGuys.net. When he’s not working as a civil engineer, Ray Flynn spends his time dreaming up new DIY projects that promote green living. He created his own website, where you can visit him at diyguys.net.

Need Eco-Friendly Design Help for your next project?

Try my Aligned Design consultation.

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Our intrinsic desire to connect with nature and living entities is encapsulated in the term “biophilia.” Coined initially by Erich Fromm and later popularized by Edward O. Wilson, this concept has found a renewed emphasis in contemporary interior design.

 

Throughout history, our bond with nature has been pivotal, not only for sustenance and survival but also for spiritual rejuvenation and inspiration. Nature, in all its splendor, offers a plethora of colors, shapes, patterns, and textures that have always intrigued our aesthetic senses. Beyond the visual delight, nature nourishes our well-being. Plants, for instance, not only beautify our spaces but purify our air and offer sensory pleasures. Similarly, our reverence for animals can be traced back through art, religion, and their cherished presence in our lives as companions.

 

My personal journey as a wildlife biologist for 33 years, trekking the terrains of Arizona and Alaska, deepened my appreciation for nature’s designs. Be it the intricate patterns of plant parts under a microscope or the harmonious color schemes, I’ve often been inspired by nature’s unparalleled creativity.

 

In an ever-evolving technological world, the essence of biophilia reminds us of the solace nature provides. So, the question is, how can we bring this comforting connection to nature into our homes through interior design?

 

Natural Materials

Opt for eco-friendly and sustainable materials in both your construction and interior design choices. Discover more in my article on Eco-Friendly Interior Design. Embrace nature by integrating unique finds from your outdoor excursions – think branches, rocks, or shells – into your home decor. Elevate your space with indoor plants that not only beautify but also purify. Enhance your home’s synergy with the outdoors by strategically landscaping visible from your interiors. Design outdoor sanctuaries that beckon you outside. Seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces with design choices and window placements that frame nature as living art.

Plants

Incorporate native plants in your garden to not only attract local wildlife but also ensure sustainability. These indigenous species are tailored to thrive in local conditions, ensuring they’re resilient and eco-friendly by preventing the spread of invasive species that could harm native ecosystems. On my Alaskan adventures, I’ve handpicked native perennials like wild roses, blueberries, and geraniums, which beautify my garden, attract wildlife, and even offer delicious treats. Indoors, adorn your space with houseplants that enhance aesthetics and purify the air. Choose flowering varieties for a burst of vibrant color!

Animals

For many, including me, a home feels incomplete without the affection of a pet. Their presence greatly enhances our overall well-being. When designing interiors, consider pet-friendly choices that not only facilitate but celebrate life with animals. Opt for durable upholstery and washable rugs to minimize pet-related wear and tear, reducing any stress that may come with adding a furry friend. Moreover, cultivate an outdoor space that’s both visually pleasing and teeming with life. Plant flora that captivates the senses and invites wildlife. Thoughtfully positioned plants near windows can provide natural ‘entertainment’, as you watch birds, butterflies, and pollinators drawn to your garden.

Color

• Incorporate nature’s hues into your home’s interior and exterior. As a certified color strategist, I’ve often drawn inspiration from the landscaping colors of clients’ gardens, converting them into paint shades for walls, front doors, or interior palettes. Think of the calming blues of the sky, lush greens, earthy browns, muted grays, and soft off-whites. Highlight with vibrant shades inspired by garden blossoms in pinks, purples, yellows, and reds or the autumnal tones of foliage like golds and oranges. While stark black and pure white are rare in nature, they can accentuate and uplift these natural shades. And remember, if a color dominates your view—even from a neighboring property—it’s worth integrating into your decor palette.

Art

• Get great photos of your outdoor adventures that evoke the feeling you had while you were there for art.
• Consider art that shows landscapes, plants, animals or other natural elements that bring you joy and work with your design and color palette.
• Incorporate energy art that connects energetically and spiritually to nature.

Scents

Scents can have a huge impact on the way you feel.

• Try a diffuser with natural oils of lavender, orange or other scents related to herbs or fruits to make the connection through smell.
• Flowering plants add a beautiful scent to your indoor space.
• Avoid products that emit harmful odors.

Lighting

• Use full spectrum bulbs to get the quality of natural daylight, especially in northern climates where light can be very limited in the winter. Living in Alaska, I can personally attest that they work and affect your mood.
• Lots of strategically placed windows provides an abundance of natural light.

Get the Look and Feel Good

Even amidst urban sprawl, it’s entirely possible to forge a natural sanctuary in your living space. Let’s explore how I transformed rooms with views of nothing but an adjacent brick building into rejuvenating havens. By leveraging earthy tones like greens, blues, and browns, incorporating artwork showcasing flora and fauna, and introducing real plants, I managed to evoke a “feel-good” ambiance that resonates with the calming embrace of nature.

We spend more time in our homes in general than we do anywhere else. Why not make it feel great with some of these tips! If you need help with your design, check out my local and online Design and Color Services.

Get Connected to Nature in Your Design

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Where do you spend most of your time? 

 

Indoors, both at home and at work. All the things in our indoor environments can affect our health. While we probably don’t have much say about our work environments, we can totally control what is in our homes, and we can use those things to make our homes both beautiful and healthy at the same time!

 

 Furniture, rugs, upholstery, flooring cabinets and paint all affect our indoor air quality. Some of the chemicals used to keep us safe, such as flame retardants in synthetic fabrics and rugs can also be hard on our health. Chemicals in some carpeting and flooring off-gas into the air. Adhesives used in furniture, especially particle board, contain formaldehyde that emit harmful substances into the air.

Ways to Create a Healthy Interior Space

How can you reduce or eliminate the negative effects of common products that can affect our health and still have a beautiful home?

 

 • Buy higher quality furniture that uses wood joinery and fewer adhesives.

 • Get rugs made of natural materials such as wool, cotton, silk or jute. 

• Paint with brands that use fewer chemicals (low VOCs). VOCs are compounds that evaporate into the air and smell bad and are bad for indoor air quality. Benjamin Moore makes a low VOC paint in their Natura collection in all their fabulous colors with reduced levels of allergens and irritants.

 • Purchase furniture with upholstery that does not use fire retardant chemicals. 

• Purchase furniture that uses foam made of natural materials such as latex. 

• Go for furniture and décor items made of wood or metal and avoid plastics.

 • Look for pillows, mattresses, upholstery and beddings made from wool-stuffed materials rather than synthetics. 

• Consider flooring made from natural materials such as stone or wood and avoid vinyl.

 • Give your space plenty of natural light and fresh air.

 • Add plants to add beauty and filter your air.

 • Use natural cleaning products. 

• Use natural materials and objects from nature as decoration.

 • Use rammed earth or adobe for walls instead of plaster or cement.

 • Use rubber walkways made from recycled rubber outdoors rather than concrete

How Your Choices Help the Planet

Besides actions you take to improve the air quality directly in your home, consider how your choices affect the health the planet too! 

 

• Buy high quality, long lasting furniture rather than cheap low-quality stuff that will end up in landfills or on the street as “free stuff” in a few years. Many cities are being overwhelmed with furniture no-one wants.

 • Find local products so that the shipping doesn’t contribute to emissions in the environment.

 • Use energy efficient lighting.

 • Use vintage items.

 • Use products made of recycled materials such as glass tiles or paper wallpaper. You can use glass in your countertops, tiles, lamps and accessories and paper for beautiful wall coverings. Even some polyester can be recycled. If you must use polyester, use rPET which can be spun into yarn and dyed without toxic properties. 

• Use renewable or sustainable materials such as bamboo, cork, teak, hemp, palm, soy fabric or cotton. Bamboo is used in fabrics, flooring and window treatments. Cork is used in textiles, floor and wall coverings. Teak is used in furniture and decking. Hemp is used in furniture upholstery, bedding, curtains and paper products. Soy fabric is soft and silky. Palm is used in some baskets. Organic cotton can be used for upholstery fabric, bedding, pillows and more. 

• Use sustainable metals that can be recycled such as copper, aluminum and steel. 

• Use solar energy for your home.

Get the Look- Eco-Friendly Design.

So, what does eco-friendly design look like? 

It can really reflect any style that you want. Most of the eco-friendly furniture produced is in a more modern style with fabrics in a wide range of colors and uses beautiful natural wood and bamboo. 

Ethnic rugs, pillows and decorative accessories are often made of natural materials and can create a global style or Bohemian look.

 Whether you are starting fresh with a new home or redoing a whole room, consider making it eco-friendly. Or add eco-friendly elements as you update your look over time. 

 

Eco-Friendly Furniture and Decor

It is easy to find beautiful sustainable products for your home décor. Sometimes these products may cost a little bit more, but it is worth it!

Ready to Create a Beautiful Eco-Friendly Space?

My approach to interior design, termed “Aligned Design,” revolves around three pillars: art, science, and energy. The sweet spot is where they intersect.

Color is central to the science of this design. As a certified color strategist, I harness the science of color to bring unique vibrancy to spaces.

Begin with the Aligned Design blueprint, blending art, science, and your home’s energy. By fusing creativity with color and connection, we can craft your ideal space together.

Learn more about Global style design in my article, Tell Your Story with Global Style Interior Design.  Curious about what Global Style might be right for you? Take the quiz below. Ready to try to get the look in your own home? Try one of my Edesign packages.

Call 907-362-0065 today

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As the season changes and we move from summer into fall, we are often inspired to change our decor. But why? Are there any good reasons to do it?

Why yes! There are several. And they are all good for us!

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1. Stay Connected to the Outdoors

One way to stay connected to the outdoors is by bringing the changing colors of the outside in.

Humans want to be connected with nature and other living things.  This longing for “connection”  is called “biophilia”.  

We have always been connected to nature, for survival, sustenance, spiritual renewal, and inspiration. Mother nature provides an endless abundance of beautiful color palettes, shapes, patterns, and textures to inspire us, our health and wellbeing, and our interior environments,

Feeling “connected” makes us feel good. One way to get that connection and those good feelings are to change the colors in our interior environment to reflect what is happening outside so there is an energy flow between the outdoors and indoors.

If you have considered the colors of your exterior view and outdoor landscaping in your Interior Design, you likely have a change of colors happening in the fall.

So the colors of fall may be different for everyone based on your location. Play with the colors you see outside your windows:)

While fall colors are typically shown as reds, yellows, oranges, browns and deep greens, the colors in your area may be different. 

For example, I grew up in the northeast and always thought of fall as having the beautiful reds of the maple leaves as they changed. Now that I live in Alaska, we have very few trees that turn red. It is mainly low ground plants that turn a deeper, darker red than the maples. Yet, we have a glorious gold color that many of the birches and cottonwoods turn that I did not see on the east coast.

• Bring the colors in by changing your accent pillows, rug,  art, or accessories. Work with things that are easy to change because you may want to change things in other seasons as well.
• Get outside, collect cool objects from your outdoor adventures to decorate your home including branches, rocks, shells, gourds, grasses, and more.
• Use of colors that harmonize with the outdoor environment. Use your outdoor windows as indoor “art”.
• Get indoor plants to provide a variety of colors, textures and improve your indoor air quality. Flowering plants are a special treat to add pops of color!

• Use the colors of nature in your home, inside and out. As a certified color strategist, I often measure some of the colors from clients’ landscaping (shrubs, flowers, trees) and translate that to paint colors for exterior walls, front doors, or interior paint palettes.
• Blues, greens, browns, off whites and grays, are great natural colors to try to bring the outdoors in since they are prominent in trees, shrubs, the sky, and water.
• Find pops of color from some of your colorful outdoor landscaping such as the fall colors of your trees, shrubs, or ground covers (golds, reds, oranges).  Black and pure white are not often found in nature but can be great colors to add to make the others stand out in all their glory. If it is a prominent color you can see from your windows, even if it is from an adjacent property, consider tying it into your color scheme.

Even if you live in the middle of a city, you can follow some of these guidelines to create a space that feels good and gives a sense of being more connected to nature. 

2. Change your Interior to go with the feeling of the season for you.

Fall feels different than spring, summer or winter. Biologically, it is the time we reap the harvest of our labors, prepare for the winter ahead and get ready to conserve our energy.

In the fall I want to relax after working hard in the summer. I feel like snuggling up and reading, enjoying a fire, taking a nap, stocking up for winter, making soup, putting the garden to bed, and slowing down. I bring out the fluffy blankets, enjoy the first fires in the fireplace, and more. I’m like my cat who moves from enjoying naps on the cool, hard floor to laying on the fluffy blanket on my bed in the fall.

I want to surround myself with warmer colors, fabrics, and softer textures than I did in the summer. My decor becomes more cozy and intimate. These things would not feel right in the summer.

 

So, I adapt my decor to match how I am feeling energetically at this time of the year, and in doing so, I feel more comfortable and enjoy my space more.

Create Connection During the Holidays.

Fall is filled with holidays to celebrate and decorate for including Halloween, Thanksgiving, Autumn Equinox, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, Octoberfest, Columbus Day, and more. 

There are lots of ideas for decorating for different holidays online or you can create your own traditions. The main point is to create a special atmosphere to celebrate and connect with friends and family that is beautiful and comfortable.

Create Your Perfect Space for Fall

Here is an example of a beautiful living room Edesign I created to highlight fall decor. For me, fall is a time of darker and brighter reds of the shrubs and ground plants, mixed with browns and greens of the forest, charcoal of the rocks on the mountain tops with a light dusting of snow, with snow, golds, yellow and oranges of the hardwood trees. I love a nice fire, a soft rug under my feet and an intimate get together with friends, wine and cheese.

For this design, I used pieces because I was drawn to the colors and textures that evoke a feeling of fall to me. The design primarily used pieced from Arhaus. I also appreciate the natural, eco-friendly materials, the handmade artistry of some of the pieces, and the cultural elements I am drawn to when creating global-style designs.

 

Try Energy Art that Evokes a Feeling of Fall

Here are a some fractal energy art pieces I created that I think evoke a feeling of fall that are available in wall art, pillows and other home decor. The energy message for each piece and how it an help you is listed in the caption.

Are You Ready to Create Your Perfect Space?

Are you ready to create your perfect space? Let’s tell your unique story and find the alignment of art, science, and energy that makes you happy.   Try my Aligned Design consultation and let’s get started.

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Does the magic of lighting makes your heart sing? Do you love rich color, textured fabrics and natural materials? Your global design style may be Moroccan!

What is a Global Design Style?

Global styles are all about your worldly adventures and telling your story! They are usually very colorful, rich in bold designs and natural textures, patterns, colors and arts and crafts of various cultures. Each piece has a story and becomes a conversation starter.  Treasures are displayed without rules or grouping by the part of the world each piece is from. Antiques mix with modern pieces, and natural objects such as animal horns, plants and rocks add to the charm. While global design styles are eclectic and may mix and match items from a variety of countries, you may be drawn to the colors and cultural artifacts of some countries more than others.

What is Moroccan Style?

Moroccan design is filled with intricate carvings, arched doorways, beautiful tilework and vibrant colorful textured fabrics, baskets and accessories. Beautiful Intricate metal lanterns and pendant lights create amazing and magical patterns of light in your room. Mosaic and ceramic sinks create luxurious bathrooms

Moroccan homes use bright colors, such as red, blue, orange, turquoise, pale ocean blues and green mixed with gold. Interiors are filled with carved furniture pieces, poufs, floor cushions, textured vases, exotic figurines, Moroccan-inspired Berber, Kilim and Azilal tribal rugs, metallic details and natural elements, such as wood and stone.

Designs reflect the diverse culture of Arabs, Berbers, Europeans and African immigrants.

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Here is an example of an eco-friendly Edesign I did for a Moroccan style living room,  highlighting traditional Moroccan pieces mixed with modern elements such as mixed metals and furnishings.

Concept Board

Here are some of the products and finishes I used for this design. Some products may contain affiliate links meaning I may receive a small commission if you purchase something at no additional cost to you.

Inspiration and Products

The inspiration and color scheme for this design came from this gorgeous Moroccan Kilim rug from Atlas Weavers. Kilim Rugs are tapestry weaves that date back to the fourth century and have a flat weave as well as bold designs and colors. They are made with natural dyes. Usually made of wool, they are not only beautiful, they are eco-friendly. A great piece of art for your floor that can last a lifetime or more. And you can get 20% off this or any other rug or non-sale item by using the code “Northern Lights” at check out!

I decided green would be a perfect third color to go with the beautiful brown and white of the rug to give the room a natural color scheme. I chose PPG’s color of the year, Night Watch for the walls and Sherwin Williams Alabaster for the trim. Other shades of deep green could also work well, as I mixed and matched various shades of green for variety in the furniture and pillows. Generally, all greens play nicely together.

Furniture

This eco-friendly sofa by Medley Home Furniture is made with organic latex cushions and eco-wool pillows. Medley Furniture offers wonderful eco-friendly and sustainable furniture. And, you can get 5% off anything with code NLS5 at check-out.

I selected eco-friendly furnishings and materials as much as possible to go with the design To learn more about Eco-Friendly Interior Design, see my blog article on the Edesign Tribe website.

This simple but beautiful copper coffee table is made in Mexico, but I selected it to pull in an element of eco-friendly copper to enhance a modern element of mixed metals that ties nicely to the Moroccan art and lighting below.

Art and Lighting

For art, I selected beautiful, authentic hand crafted mirrors, windows or doors from Morocco available at Berber Imports. Click on the link to Berber Imports to see all the following pieces. The center piece of art is an aged wrought iron window with traditional Moorish design in a carved cedar wood frame. It is flanked by two Moroccan mirrors, made from wood and beautifully decorated with hand carved white brass in the shape of old Moorish arches. 

This gorgeous Moroccan door from Berber Imports is made from reclaimed cedar, all hand carved,  with raised three dimensional brass carvings and with two tones of camel bones with an  antique finish. It can be used as an indoor or outdoor door or just as a piece of art.

The elegant arch and the almoravids hand knockers give it a beautiful moorish touch!

Moroccan style often incorporated intricate lighting that creates absolute magic in a room! This hand hammered Moroccan Lamp from Berber Imports is made of traditional heavy fez brass in a modern style. Motifs are consistent with traditional jewelry design often used in a women’s mdamma or gold belt.

Berber: Fine Moroccan Home Furnishings

Accessories

I adore these pillows from Bryar Wolf!  Each is one of a kind. Local villagers harvest the leaves of the Sabra Cactus plant and loom the filaments into textural canvas with patterns of ancient motifs. Made with natural botanical pigments, each pillow cover gets its unique, burnished character from washing and drying under the Moroccan sun. And you can get 5% off everything at Bryar Wolf with code northernlightsstaging5 at check-out.

This Bohenian Chic pillow adds a touch of white to go with the rug and adds and element of beautiful softness and texture.

This white cotton pillow from the Citizenry is handwoven by artisans in Kerala India, and block printed by a master printer in Jaipur, each pillow can take up to 4 days to complete. Not from Morocco, but a beautiful design that adds to the global style of the whole.

This beautiful Moroccan Poof from Berber Imports is made from soft Moroccan leather.

This hour glass from World Market looks like a vintage piece and is made in India, not Morocco.  I thought it would add a element of old world charm and would tie to the brass and other mixed metal accents.

These copper vases from the Citizenry are handcrafted in India by the artisans of Senapati. I selected this to mix different metal elements and harmonize wit with the copper table. Copper goes beautifully with all greens.

Get Inspired

Follow me on Pinterest for daily inspiration on global style and eco-friendly design. Check out my board on Moroccan  style for daily inspiration on this beautiful style!

Create your own Moroccan Oasis

Ready to create a Moroccan style room in your home?  Check out my Online and Edesign services. I would love to help you. The project above was an example of Full Service Edesign. Learn more about what Edesign is and how it works in my article, How can I work with an Interior Designer on my budget. Learn more about Full Service Edesign and how it works here. Feel free to give me a call at 907-362-0065 to see if Edesign would be the best option for you!  

What’s Your Global Design Style?

Are you curious about your global design style? Take the quiz and find out which style might be right for you.

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What is Mexican Style?

Mexican interiors are full of color, are welcoming, warm and there is often a sense of playfulness and whimsy. A mix of colorful, exotic Spanish and Indian handcrafted items and practical things add old world charm.

The furniture is made from solid wood or leather with designs from the Spanish and Mayan cultures. Most are made from pine, walnut and cherry. Sofas, beds and tables often have a rustic look. Rugs are usually hand woven and brightly colored. Multicolored cushions and geometrical patterns for the curtains are common.

Accessories are colorful and bright and include candles, vases and mirrors, painted wooden animal figurines, wall hangings, clay pottery, woven baskets, traditional masks and paintings.

Colors are bright. Red is common and Yellow is also used heavily in shades ranging from bright lemon yellow to deep earthy golds. Terracotta is common. Blues are commonly used in art and accessories.

Mexican style is a global design style. Global styles are all about your worldly adventures and telling your story! They are usually very colorful, rich in bold designs and natural textures, patterns, colors and arts and crafts of various cultures. Each piece has a story and becomes a conversation starter.  Treasures are displayed without rules or grouping by the part of the world each piece is from. Antiques mix with modern pieces, and natural objects such as animal horns, plants and rocks add to the charm. While global design styles are eclectic and may mix and match items from a variety of countries, you may be drawn to the colors and cultural artifacts of some countries more than others.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Living Room

Here is an example of an eco-friendly Edesign I did for a Mexican style living room. The clients were a retired couple that loved to travel and enjoyed collecting art and figurines from Mexico and other countries. They wanted a space rich in color where they could relax, read, watch TV, entertain and share their love of travel and ethnic art. They also wanted a space that was as eco-friendly as possible.

Before Photos

The clients had just moved into a new home. Here is what it looked like before their new design. They provided these photos and floor plan to create the design from and information on what they liked in term of style and color and how they wanted to use the room. The only things that would be staying in the room from the photos was the flooring, which was new.

 

 

After

This project was a full service Edesign. These after pictures are 3D renders of the finished design which they received with a concept board, shopping list and set up instructions. As you can see, I changed the wall color, and used PPG’s color of the year for 2020, Chinese Porcelain which I extended into the entry way to create a feeling of more space. I changed the front door, window treatments, lighting and furniture.

Get the Look- It’s Healthy and Great for Entertaining

The products I used are all sustainable and healthy for your indoor environment.  See my article on “Eco-Friendly Interior Design- Why You Should Care” on the Edesign Tribe blog.  All the items are made from natural materials such as wood, cotton, wool, copper, iron, sheepskin, clay, ceramic, palm and leather. Here is the concept board I created for the clients.

Inspiration and Products

The following products were used in this design. Some are trade sources in which I was able to work out a discount for you if you like them and order directly yourself. Others may be affiliate sources, meaning I get a small commission if you purchase them for sharing them with you, at no additional cost to you.

The inspiration for this room was this mural from Anthropologie. The whimsical, crewelwork-inspired motif is based on an embroidery style created by the Otomi people of central Mexico and is filled with pre-historic symbols based on native flora and fauna, local beliefs and even primitive cave drawings. Animals, were thought to be bearers of important news. This piece inspired the color scheme, the purple couch, the colors of the leather chairs and velvet pillows on the sofa.

Eco-Friendly Accessories

The animals in the mural inspired the collection of painted wood animal figurines on the book shelves which I got from La Fuente and Wayfair. The ones from La Fuente are Oaxacan Woodcarvings. The wood carvers of Oaxaca Mexico create whimsical designs in festive colors, are carved by hand from the wood of the copal tree. They are painted in stunning detail with acrylic colors. The carvers believe their figures will bring good luck to the potential owner. The figurines from Wayfair are representations of these, which I chose because I loved the colors and some of the cats were just too cute!

 

This purple cat had some nice colors that tied in with the purple sofa and colors on the wall and mural.

The whimsical mural’s focus on plants and animals also inspired the use of the ceramic masks which feature plants and animals.

 

I found these gorgeous eco-friendly baskets made in Mexico from palm leaves, at The Citizenry.

I found the velvet cotton pillows at Bryar Wolfe, where you can get 5% off with code northernlightsstaging at checkout.

Eco-Friendly Furniture

The sofa uses natural latex cushions, wool stuffed pillows and hardwood frame from Medley Furniture which specializes in eco-friendly furniture.  Get a 5% discount on all their products with the code NLS5 at check out. They use sustainable materials such as certified hardwoods and bamboo, no harsh chemicals or fire retardants. Cushions are made of latex foam, pillows are stuffed with wool, cotton, hemp or down. The furniture is custom made for you within 6-8 weeks and they offer free returns. And they have some beautiful fabrics and colors! Who doesn’t need a purple couch!

I love these copper tables, made in Mexico, from La Fuente. Copper is a great option for incorporating unique, authentic and eco-friendly furniture in your design. I found the coffee table, console table and side tables, all made in Mexico there, and loved the color and the petroglyph cut outs on the console table. I thought it related nicely back to the pre-historic elements of the Otami art.

This picked this end table from Mexico because it was made from reclaimed wood and re-purposed hammered copper on the top and the drawer.

 

I loved this small floating hardwood and iron table made in Mexico from The Citizenry because it did not take up a lot of space and was perfect for the reading area I created near the bookshelves.

These beautiful leather chairs from The Citizenry are unique and made in Mexico

Eco-Friendly Rugs and Throws

The beautiful wool Moroccan Azrou rug is from Atlas weavers. I could not find an eco-friendly rug that fit the design from Mexico, but this one from Morocco is simple and has that folkloric look that worked nicely with the design.

Atlas Weavers will give you a 20% discount on their beautiful authentic new or vintage rugs, made from wool or animal hides.  Use the code “northern lights” at check out on any non-sale item. To learn more about Moroccan rugs, see my blog article on the Magic of Moroccan Rugs.

 

At Arhaus , I found the sheepskin rug  and throw to add a feeling of softness and create an atmosphere you just wanted to snuggle up and relax! Not made in Mexico, but eco-friendly!

Eco-Friendly Lighting

I also found the iron and onyx chandelier, and the clay sconces, made in Mexico at La Fuente.

Plants are Great for Indoor Air Quality

A nice touch to add beauty to your room and to help filter your air is to use plants. I found these clay and marble pots and vases, made in Mexico at The Citizenry as well, where you can shop “by country”.

 

Are You Inspired to Create your own Mexican Oasis?

I love the way this design came out. It seems like a happy, magical space where you can sit back, relax, and tell stories about the wonders of your travels to exotic lands.

If you need help in creating an eco-friendly, global style room in your home, check out my Online and Edesign services. I would love to help you. Follow me on Pinterest for daily inspiration on global style and eco-friendly design.

Wondering what your Global Design Style is? Take the quiz and find out!

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