DESIGN TIP: AREA RUG PLACEMENT

Area rugs are one of the easiest ways to transform a space—but only if they’re placed correctly. The right rug can anchor your furniture, define zones, and bring warmth and balance to your home. Here are simple, designer-approved tips to get it right every time. Your Living Room rug should connect your furniture, not sit awkwardly in the middle. The three golden layouts: All legs on: The most polished look—every piece sits fully on the rug Front legs on: A balanced, everyday designer approach Avoid floating rugs: A small rug centered alone breaks up the room visually Jade & Sage Tip: When in doubt, go bigger. A larger rug makes your space feel more open, not smaller. A Dining Room rug should make your space feel effortless—not frustrating. What to get right: Leave at least 24 inches around your table Chairs should stay on the rug—even when pulled out Match the shape of your rug to your table   Jade & Sage Tip: Choose low-pile or flatweave rugs for easy cleaning and smooth chair movement. Stepping onto a soft rug in the morning? That’s a small luxury that changes everything in your bedroom. Best placements: 2/3 under the bed: Starts under the bed and extends outward Full coverage: Bed and nightstands sit fully on the rug Side runners: Perfect for smaller budgets or tighter spaces Jade & Sage Tip: Aim for 18–24 inches of rug on each side of the bed for balance and comfort. Your entryway is your home’s introduction—make it count. Simple rules: Choose a rug that fits the scale (not too small) Leave visible flooring around the edges Layer a doormat for added texture and style Jade & Sage Tip: Go for durable, natural materials that can handle everyday traffic. Final Thoughts If your room feels unfinished, start from the ground up. The right rug, placed the right way, will: Make your space feel larger Bring your furniture together Add warmth and comfort instantly And most importantly—it will make your house feel like home. Love design tips like this?Stay connected with Jade & Sage for more curated home inspiration, styling guides, and shop-worthy finds designed to elevate your everyday living. What to check out next… DESIGN TIP ON ART HANGING DESIGN TIP: WINDOW TREATMENT HANGING Shop Area Rugs RUGS More info. on how we can work together. HERE     

SPRUCE UP YOUR SPACE FOR SPRING

Spring is the perfect season for a fresh start and new beginnings. Refresh your home with these simple, affordable tips to create a space that feels renewed, light, and inviting. ( This Affiliate links are included for your shopping convenience. I might get a small commission. No cost to you) Privacy & Disclosure Refresh #1–  One quick way is to lighten up your space.  Simply add lighter colors and materials into your room.  Swap out your heavier materials like velvet and knitted materials for something lighter like linen and cotton instead. You can quickly achieve this is by  swapping out throw pillows and throw blankets. Affordable way is by switching out pillow covers. A fresh new look in seconds. Here are a few pillow covers that caught my eye. Needing pillow inserts?  Check these out! Pillow Inserts Refresh #2–  Second, The temperature outside is getting warmer and pleasant.  Air out your home by opening up those windows.  If you have dark curtains on your windows?  Swap it out for a lighter window treatment like linen, sheer and cotton. Refresh #3–  Plants and florals! After getting fresh air into your space bring nature in.  Add air filtering plants into your space. Great for the air and for you. Some of these air filtering indoor plants and hard to kill plants are snake plant, rubber plant, spider plant, Peace Lily, English ivy and the Aloe Vera just to name a few. Refresh #4–  Fresh Scent. No more autumn candles and Christmas scent of pine.  Time to Swap it for a fresh summer vibe scent.  A scent of clean cotton, tropical vibes and/ or  beach scent. Keeping the air clean, make sure you choose either soy, beeswax or coconut wax.  Your lungs will  thank you. Check out these great smelling soy Candles. HERE Small, thoughtful updates can completely transform your home—making it feel fresh, light, and airy without breaking the bank. Stay tuned for my next blog post! Love design tips and inspiration? Join my newsletter and never miss a new idea. Have design dilemma? Check out my E-Design Services.  HERE

SHOP THE LOOK: ENGLISH COTTAGE

One design style that continually inspires me is English Cottage aka Cottage-core. I’m naturally drawn to spaces that feel organic, rustic, and deeply connected to nature. I love homes layered with vintage finds, historical touches, and natural materials that bring warmth and authenticity into a space. For me, design isn’t about trends—it’s about creating environments that feel grounded, storied, and timeless. Spaces that feel collected over time, filled with character, history, and quiet beauty. 1. What Is English Cottage/ cottage -core? English Cottage is a romanticized aesthetic inspired by: Rural European countryside life Handmade living Slow, intentional rhythms Gardening, baking, sewing, homemaking Vintage charm It’s about simplicity, nostalgia, and natural beauty. 2. Core Design Elements  Color Palette Warm cream Soft sage green Dusty rose Muted lavender Butter yellow Faded blue Warm wood tones Materials Natural wood (unfinished or lightly stained) Linen & cotton Wicker & rattan Stoneware & pottery Lace & crochet Dried flowers  Textures Floral prints Gingham Ruffles Quilts Distressed finishes To help you visualize the possibilities, I’ve created two curated “Shop the Look” living room designs that you can easily recreate in your own space. click the links to shop  SOFA/ ARTWORK/TABLE/ HUTCH/PENDANT/TRUNK/CHAIR/TABLE/RUG/GREENPILLOW/ RABBIT PILLOW/ FLORAL PILLOW/ WHITE PILLOW click the links to shop  SOFA / CHAIR / RUG / PENDANT / KNITTED PILLOW / BLUE PILLOW / TABLE / WINDOW PANELS ( This Affiliate links are included for your shopping convenience. I might get a small commission. No cost to you) Privacy & Disclosure Love this style?Sign up for my newsletter and receive weekly inspiration from Jade & Sage. Each week I share Shop the Look designs, step-by-step design guides, and ideas to help you create a home that feels timeless and beautifully curated. When you join, I’ll also send you my FREE e-book: The Designer Room Formula Blueprint, revealing the simple design framework professionals use to create balanced, designer-level rooms.

SEE WHAT’S TRENDING 2026 HOME DECOR TRENDS

Every year, the interior design and fashion industries come together to forecast what will define the year ahead. Soon enough, you start seeing the same styles, color palettes, and overall “vibe” everywhere you look. I’ll be honest—I don’t typically chase trends. Especially the ones that feel over-the-top, burn out quickly, and leave you feeling like you need to redesign your home all over again a year later. That cycle can get expensive fast. Instead, I gravitate toward a more classic, timeless approach—one that evolves naturally and continues to feel relevant year after year. That said… I have to admit, I’m really loving the direction this year’s trends are taking. So let’s break it down. The Vibe This Year This year is all about personal expression and nostalgia. Consumers are leaning into spaces that feel comforting, authentic, and grounded. There’s a strong pull toward natural, organic elements—designs that feel lived-in, meaningful, and connected to nature rather than overly styled. via Healthier Homes   1. Natural Elements Are Leading the Way We’re seeing a renewed love for materials like: Real wood and raw textures Medium oak and warm walnut tones Natural stone Organic cotton and linen fabrics These elements bring warmth, depth, and a sense of calm into the home—without feeling trendy or forced. via Healthier Homes   A Shift Toward Health & Sustainability Homeowners are also becoming more educated and intentional about what they bring into their spaces—not just for style, but for well-being and environmental impact. This includes: Natural and non-toxic wall treatments Raw and responsibly sourced wood Organic, breathable fabrics Low-VOC paints A greater focus on indoor air quality Design is no longer just about how a space looks—it’s about how it feels to live in it. via Lulu and Georgia    2. Warm Neutrals This year, we’re moving away from stark whites and cool grays and embracing warm, inviting neutrals. Think earthy browns, soft taupes, warm beiges, and gently muted tones. These colors create depth and comfort, making spaces feel cozy, grounded, and timeless rather than sterile or trendy. 3. Curated Maximalism The phrase “more is more” is making a comeback—but with intention. Curated maximalism isn’t about clutter; it’s about thoughtful layering. Every piece has purpose and meaning, whether it’s collected over time, passed down, or simply loved.Expect layered textures, bold yet balanced colors, vintage accents, and personal objects that tell a story. The result is a space that feels rich, expressive, and deeply lived-in—full of nostalgia without feeling overwhelming.   4. Vintage Revival Vintage is back… though truthfully, it never really left. What’s different now is the modern twist. We’re seeing vintage elements thoughtfully mixed with contemporary design to create spaces that feel both fresh and familiar.Caned furniture is returning with cleaner lines and a modern edge. Checkerboard floors, handmade pieces, and richly textured materials are reappearing, adding charm, character, and authenticity to interiors that celebrate craftsmanship and history.   These styles are definitely my style.  Natural elements, comfort, cozy and mindful curated decor and design.  How about you?  Check out my e-design services  HERE Get you started in decluttering and organizing your home. Download my EBOOK HERE

DESIGN TIP: ART HANGING

Design rule to follow while hanging artwork and mirrors. I’ve seen plenty of times when entering a room  that their art is hung way to high. Also, the art piece are to small for the area. I’ve created a quick diagrams of how high to hang art over sofas, beds and mantles. Rule 1- Hang art 57-60″ from floor to center of art/ mirror.  You typically want your piece to be at eye level.  A standard eye level is approximately at 60″.  Rule 2- The size matters in selecting a piece of art. When choosing art above a bed or sofa your artwork or mirror should be 2/3 the size of furniture piece. An example: A 96″ sofa, the ideal art size should be approximately 60 to 75 inches wide, which is about 2/3 of the sofa’s width. Rule 3- If you are using an art collection or creating a gallery wall. Make each art piece spaced out evenly.  Minimal distances between art to art is 3- 6 inches apart.   Tip:  Use tape or paper templates to visualize spacing before committing to hanging the art. This allows for adjustments based on personal preference and the specific area. Well there you have it. How to hang art. With a few easy steps you can hang art successfully. Looking for beautiful unique art pieces check out this wonderful art company with very talented artist.  Awesome Art Finds Need help finding the right piece?  Need a visual? I can layout a drawing with the exact size, and install guide and art piece to purchase for your space. Contact me! Check out my design service done “Virtually”. DESIGN ADVICE

Design Tip: Working with Odd numbers in designing

When designing your home and your trying to create a complete finished look.  One very important rule to follow is work with odd numbers. Create on fireplace mantles, tables, console table and night stands  with the rule of odd number room.  Here are a few reasons on why its important and how to apply it to your decorating. 1. Understand the Rule of Three Odd numbers—especially 3, 5, or 7—tend to look more natural and visually interesting. Our eyes move more dynamically over an odd-numbered grouping. It avoids the overly balanced, sometimes “stiff” look that even numbers can create. 2. Create a Visual Triangle When styling three items, arrange them so they form a triangle. This adds height variation and makes the grouping feel intentional. How to do it: Use one taller object (lamp, vase, sculpture) Add one medium-height object (small plant, candle holder) Add one low or wide object (tray, book stack, bowl) This creates a balanced yet organic feel. 3. Mix Heights, Shapes, and Textures Odd groupings work best when each item offers something different: Height: tall + medium + short Shape: round + angular + organic Texture: smooth + rough + woven This contrast prevents the group from feeling repetitive or cluttered. 4. Keep a Common Thread Variety is key—but the group should still relate. Tie objects together using at least one shared element, such as: Color palette Material (wood, ceramic, metal, glass) Style (rustic, modern, coastal) This creates unity without uniformity. 5. Use an Anchor A tray, book stack, or cutting board (for kitchen styling) helps: Contain the grouping Make it feel cohesive Add another layer of visual interest This works especially well for coffee tables, consoles, and kitchen counters. 6. Apply the “Small, Medium, Large” Formula This simple formula makes any odd-number grouping look styled, not random: Large: the anchor or focal point Medium: the supporting piece Small: the accent or detail This ensures flow and hierarchy. 7. Scale Matters Use odd groupings relative to the space: Small surfaces (nightstands, side tables): 3 items Medium surfaces (dressers, consoles): 3 or 5 items Large areas (mantels, shelves, dining tables): 5 or 7 items The bigger the surface, the more objects you can use without looking cluttered. 8. Step Back and Edit With odd-number groupings, less can still be more. After styling: Step back a few feet Check for visual balance Remove anything that feels unnecessary Your eye will naturally tell you if something looks off. If you want, I can also create a visual guide. Check out my Virtual Design services. HERE

CHARMING RUSTIC CHRISTMAS DECOR ROUND UP

This week’s curated look embraces a charming rustic-country aesthetic, grounded in a soft natural palette and enriched with time-worn, earthy materials that bring warmth and character to any space. This curated look comes from one of my favorite online shop Antique Farmhouse. Check them out! HERE  ( This Affiliate links are included for your shopping convenience. I might get a small commission. No cost to you) Iron Bells on Rope Hanger Nativity Set Glass Bead Garland Bell Cloche On Round Wood Base Footed Wood Gingerbread Riser Flameless LED Candles With Star Hanger Set of 6 Flameless LED Candles With Star Hanger Set of 6 Embossed Glass Ornament Garland Let Heaven And Nature Sing Canvas Wall Art PIN IT

FALL DECOR -ADD NATURAL ELEMENTS

Fall is just round the corner.  Decorating for the season is quite fun.  I wanted to share with you what I do for fall.  If you want something a little different instead of that typical decoration of scarecrows and cute throw pillows, how about adding natural elements into your decor. You can add Autumn pieces like wreaths with leaves and wheat, assorted of acorns and vibrant colored leaves and festive pumpkins.  These wood acorns would be great addition by styling them in a decorative bowl, nestle them among garlands, or scatter them across your harvest table for an elegant fall accent.  Another way to add natural elements is this hops and foliage garland. It’s perfect for draping across mantels and staircases.  We can’t forget about pumpkins.  The number 1 fall element next to colorful foliage. Add pumpkins that have different heights and textures, this is a great way  to add height, texture and depth.   These are great ways in adding natural elements.  Bringing nature inside is great way to explore texture and colors.  It gives a cozy and warm feeling in your space.   Tip: while taking your walk, and you are noticing the leaves are changing and you see acorns scattered along your path.  Collect some of those natural items and bring them into your home and use them as your Autumn decor around your house.   Happy Decorating.  Stay tuned for more quick decorating tips and inspirations.    Head on over to our boutique.  We make non toxic soy candles, tea towels, throw pillows and artwork.  

HOW TO MAKE A SMALL ROOM FEEL LARGER

Designing a small space can be challenging, but not impossible. Here are some quick tips to think about while designing your small space. By implementing these steps will help create a small room look more complete and less cluttered look. Your room will seem to look larger. DECLUTTER Keep space clear of clutter, clear up the pathway for easy navigating through the room.  This will keep the space more tidy. LIGHT COLORS Choose paint colors that are soft and light shade will reflect light. This gives the space a more bright and airy feel.  Light weight window treatments to bring natural light in. FURNITURE ARRANGEMENT Choose furniture that have multi purpose. Try using storage piece for a multi purpose like a storage ottoman or sofa bed.  Small space doesn’t mean a lot of small furniture pieces. Select furniture that are big enough, but also that allows for easy movement and flow. Installing pieces that are vertical like shelving on walls or tall built-ins.  This will allow the eye to look upward. REFLECTIVE SURFACE Add a reflective piece like a mirror or translucent piece of furniture. This will help create an illusion that the space is bigger and give the room a cluttered and heavy feel of the space. Enjoy learning some quick Design tips and inspirations? Sign up for our newsletter .

3 WAYS TO STYLE YOUR ENTRYWAY

A Entryway is the first area you see when entering your home.  Your entryway should feel welcoming and lack of clutter.  This space is another opportunity to be creative and express your style.  Here a quick tips on how to style your entryway. When styling your entry think about color, functionality, personal style and lighting. This blog contains affiliate links. I might get a space commission There is no cost to you.  1. WALL DETAIL Firstly, add a mirror or artwork for style and color. By adding a mirror or artwork, this will create a focal point within the space and anchor the other pieces together. SOURCE 2. Functional pieces Secondly, I believe the space should have functionality. Design with functional pieces, like console tables or credenza. Pieces that create extra storage and dropping zone for keys, mail and wallet.  Put a decorative bowl or box to catch those items. Don’t want to walk into a dark home, add a lamp to switch on.  Add Hooks for hanging, and baskets are great addition to store shoes. Lastly, add a bench or ottoman for a place to rest or put on shoes. SOURCE 3. floor Flooring also need to be addressed. Flooring would add style and interest. Area rugs would add warmth. Decorative tile would also be a great addition. SOURCE When designing this space ask yourself how do I need this space to function?  Do you need extra storage?  Do you need somewhere to hang your jackets or store your shoes?  Once you know what you need then ask about style. The space should coordinate with the rest of your home.  Want to know how? Check Out this blog! How to create a color palette for your home and  6 Steps how to design your home PIN FOR LATER