Katie Walker, owner and lead designer at Slate Studios Interior Design, loves it when functionality meets great style. Her design aesthetic is based on the motto, “practical first, then pretty.” Browse her hand-selected favorites to add a touch of classy functionality to all your living spaces.
Tapestry Treasures
It’s no secret that area rugs have the power to completely transform a room, but what you may not have considered is how the perfect area rug can actually act as a piece of art. Heirloom-quality area rugs are handmade, usually of wool and silk, and if taken care of, will last generations. “When working with high-end area rugs, we love to base the rest of a room’s design around the rug. This gorgeous Pheasant Chihuly Area Rug from The Rug Company, designed by none other than American glass artist Dale Chihuly, is a showstopper,” says Katie Walker.
From $6,000; therugcompany.com
Luxe Light Fixtures
Lighting is like the jewelry of a room—the finishing, sparkly touch to complete a whole vibe. “I love how unique this stunning fixture by Visual Comfort is. Pictures do not do it justice. This light, made of solid faceted crystal, is sculptural, luxe and striking,” advises Walker. This specific fixture, the Collier 132 Chandelier, is remote-dimmable with most LED-compatible ELV and TRIAC dimmers. Pro tip from Walker: always consider scale and make sure your fixture is proportional to the space.
$7,400; visualcomfort.com
Visually Tantalizing Vases
The perfect accessories can bridge colors, patterns and styles to complete a look. This Gilded Gala Round Vase from Jonathan Adler would stand out, with or without any stems. Pro tip from Walker: With accessorizing, less is more. Opt for a few quality pieces instead of multiple inexpensive items, as thoughtful curation and restraint in accessorizing go a long way.
$260; jonathanadler.com
Dual-Purpose Furnishings
Dual-purpose furnishings are ideal for small and family-friendly spaces. This Springfield Ottoman with Tray by Vanguard Furniture, available in leather or fabric, is a great example of how dual-purpose can also be incredibly sleek and stylish. Both an ottoman and a coffee table, this piece provides a space to set drinks and somewhere to rest your feet.
Price varies based on customizations; vanguardfurniture.com
Statement Seating
If you’re looking for exotic seating with an edge, this Ocelot Embroidered Barbana Counter Stool will be the focal point of any room. “The most interesting rooms have some pieces that demand your attention: something so striking that you have to study its details,” Walker notes. Also available as a bar stool, this seating option from Arteriors is that piece. With a textured, hand-forged iron frame and embroidered upholstery that features organic patches of threading, it’s one of those pieces that you can’t help but admire.
$2,340; arteriorshome.com
Bold Wallpaper
With endless patterns, textures, colors and intricate details, wallpaper adds depth and visual interest to a room. “You can use wallpaper to create a unique atmosphere or choose a bold graphic pattern to energize a space. This Studs and Stripes Brass and Linen Wallpaper from one of my all-time favorite suppliers, Phillip Jeffries, features brass studs to add a tactile element,” says Walker. It comes in a variety of colors and fabrics. Sophisticated and chic, this wallpaper is the perfect blend of texture and pattern.
Made to order; phillipjeffries.com
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