The Art of Giving: A Designer-Curated Holiday Gift Guide for Everyone on Your List

December 4, 2025 Sara Hillery

As December approaches, the season’s sparkle begins to set in—along with the annual race to find gifts that feel truly thoughtful. Between the loved ones who seem to have everything and the friends who grow harder to shop for each year, choosing something personal and artfully crafted can feel like its own holiday challenge.

This year, we’ve curated a collection of designer-worthy finds for every kind of person on your list—gifts that are intentional, delightful, and certain to be cherished. Happy gifting!

Designing for the Season of Gathering: 5 Cozy Ideas for Your Home

November 13, 2025 Sara Hillery

Start planning your Thanksgiving meal, taking stock of your holiday decorations, and making your naughty and nice lists: it’s officially the holiday season. Despite this time of year’s reputation as being extremely busy, it’s also, in our opinion, the coziest.

6 Design Details Your Guests Will Never Forget

October 17, 2025 Sara Hillery

As we barrel towards the holiday season, we naturally start assessing whether our home is ready for entertaining, whether for family-friendly Halloween get-togethers or adults-only New Years Eve soirees. While we love a good total reno and the chance to transform a home into a drastically different gathering space for friends and family, sometimes such a big change isn’t in the cards (or the budget).

Over the years, we have also identified the power of making smaller changes, swaps, and upgrades to create an inviting, appealing atmosphere. Here are six design details from past Sara Hillery Interior Design projects that will make an unforgettable impression on your guests and will hopefully give you a happiness buzz whenever you walk in that space as well.

Showstopping Foyer

Make a big impact on your guests from the moment they walk in with a fresh, tidy, and intentional foyer. This space incorporates both bright and soft whites and adds greenery to ease the indoor/outdoor transition. A playful blue and white striped wallpaper plays well with the lighter, peaceful blue shades of lighting fixture and side table.
Entryways often get clogged with shoes, coats, and bags, but making the effort to create a curated foyer translates to more space in the home to truly express your style and will set the stage to showcase your home to guests. Another plus side: you’ll enter your home after a long day and feel instantly refreshed and welcome.

Custom Architectural Details

One of our favorite ways to bring texture into a space without drastically altering it structurally is to add architectural details. Incorporating moldings instantly makes a room feel intriguing and elegant, and we love the diversity of options and that they can be added from floor to ceiling depending on which area you’d like to highlight.
To add depth to this room with a largely monochromatic color palette, we incorporated panel wainscotting and fluted pilasters around the fireplace, crown and baseboard molding at the ceiling and floor, and casing around the door.

Unique Powder Room

Powder rooms are among the most fun to play with since we like to be daring in small spaces! They are often the perfect room to try dramatic paint colors or wallpapers, but putting some thought into smaller details goes a long way here in general.
Little touches such as a whimsical mirror, funky light fixtures, an interesting faucet, a small bouquet of flowers, even a decadent smelling hand soap can have maximum impact and will have your guests stealing these ideas for their own powder room.

Bar Niche

For consummate entertainers and wannabe mixologists, a stocked bar is a necessity. Why not make every celebration feel just a little more festive with a splashy bar niche like this one? The vibrant color, abundant gold details, crisp marble countertop, wallpapered ceiling, and glam beaded light fixture will make every martini feel like a party! Multiple cabinets contain bottles, glasses, and other bar accessories for when the party is (at least temporarily) over and keep the space looking clean and organized.

Pops of Wallpaper

Wallpaper can get dismissed from design plans because of its past reputation for being fussy and costly to install. There are now easier-to-apply options available, and we’d also argue that the visual impact is worth a little struggle: wallpaper can make guests feel like they are inhabiting a work of art!
Wallpapers come in myriad patterns (we especially love floral and botanicals) and textures. Depending on the size and color of the print, patterns can really bring a “wow” factor, or they can create a soothing, repetitive visual. If wallpapering a whole room feels intimidating, we recommend using it for an accent wall or two.

Curated Art Collection

Many of our clients have spent years if not decades amassing a collection of artwork. Because these collections grow over time, the pieces are often added to an open wall or squeezed into a cabinet. For maximum visual impact, we recommend curating art that is connected by style or form into a specific area or space for display. When entertaining guests who might not know others (or even your family) very well, these collections create an immediate entrypoint for conversation and connection. Who knows? They may even have a unique collection of their own!
*Want more design tips? Download our* ***FREE*** ***Seasonal Guest-Ready Checklist*** *below to get our curated tips and tricks to prep your home for guests this holiday season. Happy entertaining!*

Download the Checklist

Reflecting on Rooms with a View

September 8, 2025 Sara Hillery

Rooms With a View, New England’s premier annual design event founded by design legend Albert Hadley, is about to celebrate 30 years! Each November, this annual design event invites a select group of designers to create vignettes in the library and great hall of the historic stone Gothic Revival style Southport Congregational Church. Proceeds from ticket sales go towards supporting a bevy of local charities.

“Nancy Goes Barefoot in Southport”

Sara was invited to participate in the 2024 Rooms with a View, where she had the opportunity to transform a room into her grand vision. Each designer is provided a petite space (6’x8’x8’) to transform in under a week, which is no small feat. Sara took on the challenge last year and designed an elegant and sunny room with a nod to design legend Nancy Lancaster.

Design Inspiration

Sara’s vignette, aptly named “Nancy goes Barefoot in Southport”, took color cues from the famous yellow room that Nancy Lancaster designed with John Fowler in London (if going viral was a thing in the 1950s, this room would have done it!). In lieu of the“buttah yellah” used in the original, Sara selected a more demure shade, incorporating warm yellow elements including gingham curtains, a panel of bird-patterned wallpaper by Brunchswig & Fils, a traditional pendant light by Vaughan Lighting, and a bevy of naturalist inspired decorative elements to create an inviting room with a sense of casual elegance, perfect for curling up with a book or cozying up for a nap.

And It Was All Yellow

Sara’s signature practice of enlivening a space by bringing in natural elements was on display as she sprinkled plants and flowers throughout the vignette.
There’s no doubt that Lancaster, who, like Sara, has Virginia roots, would have approved of this casually sophisticated, inspired, and unique homage!

Thank you to all of our sponsors, and Rooms with a View, for helping bring this vignette to life, including: Jennifer Manners Design, Vaughan Lighting, Hickory Chair Furniture Co, Samuel & Sons, Brunschwig & Fils, and Little Greene Paint.
To learn more about the history of Rooms with a View, and see this year’s vignettes, visit www.roomswithaview.org
*You can attend this year’s showhouse in person from November 7-9th in Southport, CT.*

Renovation Regret Is Real - But It’s Entirely Avoidable

August 26, 2025 Sara Hillery

We love a good renovation–it’s an opportunity to transform a space that no longer serves its original purpose, make changes that support a homeowner’s evolving family situation (such as becoming empty nesters or having additional children), or give an intentional glow up after a long period of residence.

Renovations aren’t to be taken lightly or quickly, however. While we understand the excitement and anticipation surrounding the renovation process, this excitement can often lead to skipping the planning phase, or considering your emotional needs around the space. But here’s the truth we’ve learned over 20 years of design: renovation regret is real, and it’s almost always avoidable.

The Trouble Begins When Planning Ends Too Soon

Excitement is natural. It’s tempting to dive in, pick paint colors, and start knocking down walls. But skipping the planning phase—or overlooking the emotional needs tied to your space—can lead to costly detours. We’ve seen it happen: electrical lines laid right where a future pool was dreamed. Oversized loft-sized sectionals purchased for cozy cottages. Sentimental elements removed without a second thought. These aren’t just logistical missteps, they’re missed opportunities to make your home feel like you.

Designing With Intention Means Designing With Longevity

A thoughtful renovation starts with a master plan. One that considers not just square footage and finishes, but how you live, how you gather, and what you cherish. It’s about preserving heirlooms, honoring memories, and making space for new ones.
This is where an experienced designer becomes invaluable. We help you fine-tune your goals, anticipate roadblocks, and create a roadmap that reflects your lifestyle—not just your Pinterest board. We’re your sounding board, your advocate, and your guide through the process.

Avoid the “It Looked Good Online” Trap

Furniture regret is one of the most common post-renovation woes. That dreamy oversized sofa? It might overwhelm your living room. A furniture plan and accurate dimensions aren’t just helpful—they’re essential. They save you time, money, and the heartbreak of realizing something doesn’t fit (literally or emotionally).

When done right, a renovation enhances your home’s value, supports your lifestyle, and brings joy for years to come. It’s not just about what’s new—it’s about what’s functional and true to you.
*If you’re considering a renovation—or already knee-deep in one—we’ve created a free Renovation Readiness Checklist to help you start with clarity and confidence. Download the checklist below* *and then give us a call!*

DOWNLOAD THE CHECKLIST

Travels in Design - Savoring Sicily

July 15, 2025 Sara Hillery

My April trip to Sicily did not disappoint! We arrived in Palermo, but quickly went down the coast in Cefalu for our first night and the next day. This picturesque town had a pretty beach, inviting piazzas, and the best ice cream I have ever had. A free walking tour led us to some of the town's historical sites, and we happily wandered through the quaint streets.

Traveling continues to be one of my biggest and most reliable sources of inspiration. Not only do I get to experience new cultures and foods and learn about the histories of the places I visit, but I always end up picking up a design trick, trend, or influence to try in my own home or in the homes of one of the projects I am working on.

Taormina, our next stop, quickly became my favorite. We took advantage of the small, yet refined city’s gardens and beautiful views, participated in a cooking class, and hit up Bam Bam granita for their famous semi-frozen, slushy-like treats (the strawberry granita was divine).

As a wine and nature lover, I couldn’t resist a tour that took us to the famous Mount Etna volcano and lava flow tunnels before culminating in a lunch at Gambino Winery. There we learned how the flavors of the local wines are shaped by the nearby volcano.

We returned to Palermo, the largest city on our trip, to explore more. Although Palermo has been impacted by the Mafia over the years, the city is coming back to life. Its gorgeous gardens and mix of Arab and Roman architectural and cultural influence made it an ideal place to spend our last few days. Between taking a street food tour, feasting on fish, visiting the Palatine Chapel, and seeing a show at the Teatro Massimo, the city’s famed and picturesque Opera House, we crammed as much local flavor into our time there.

We sadly bid Sicily goodbye the next morning, but I brought home plenty of inspiration and ideas for projects from the intricate mosaic patterns on church walls to the vivid textiles sold on the street to the dramatic views of Mount Etna and along the coast.

Spring Into Style: 5 Interior Designer Approved Home Decor Tips

April 16, 2025 Sara Hillery

Warmer weather, finally! As we open the windows to let in the fresh spring air and take pleasure in swapping out our winter wardrobes, we often find ourselves also wanting to refresh our home decor. These updates don’t need to be dramatic but they do wonders for our mood and take advantage of the natural, seasonal cycles taking place outside.

As interior designers, here are some of our favorite easy decor tips you can use today to get your home Spring ready:

1. In bloom

Go beyond the dining room or kitchen floral “centerpiece” by adding fresh, seasonal floral arrangements all around the house.
Stick a bloom or two into a bud vase and pop it on the bathroom vanity and delight houseguests with a mini bedside bouquet from your backyard. Scented or not, these flowers instantly give off fresh spring vibes!

2. Curated layers

Refresh and rearrange coffee table decor, and any other surfaces. In addition to incorporating floral arrangements or plants, you could select a beautiful tray, unique antique pieces, and bring in a candle with a refreshing scent (such as citrus or jasmine).
Adding coffee table books that depict themes of gardens, warm weather escapes, or spring fashion will also add seasonal flair.

3. Pastel palette

Add decorative or spring themed artwork to each room. While there’s no need to redo a room entirely, think in terms of spring colors and bring in decor to reflect this palette. Topiaries and ferns add whimsical spring flair to a room, and swapping out darker paintings or photographs for more vibrant hued artworks will do wonders to enliven a space.

4. Textile touches

Make seasonal accessories swaps. Put away the cozy, heavy blankets, make space for lighter throws or quilts, and don’t underestimate the power of simply trading out decorative pillows.
Selecting pastel colors and spring prints for these accessories will add another layer to the overall spring effect.

5. Tablescapes

Let the “lightness” of spring guide you around the table. Bring out your cheery, patterned place settings, add a floral table runner, and incorporate more fanciful and decorative glassware. We also love using flatware with bamboo or colorful handles.
Even if lingering cool weather means you can’t dine outside just yet, you could get into the picnic mindset with a checkered tablecloth. This season brings out our more playful side, and, after a long winter, we happily embrace that in as many aspects of our daily lives as possible!

Looking for more design tips, or have an interior design project in mind? We are here to help, contact us today!

Travels in Design - Prague Trip Highlights

January 20, 2025 Sara Hillery

Prague has a quaint and timeless feel owing to fairytale stone and brick buildings, a medieval and picturesque bridge, and one of the oldest astronomical clocks in the world. Modern art such as the butterflies and baby sculptures by Czech artist David Černý and the active renovation of old buildings keep the city from feeling stuck in the past.

One of the oldest Atronomical Clocks in the world

Although I love family traditions at home, traveling to the Czech Republic during the Thanksgiving holiday was a fun way to shake things up and to scratch my history itch. From sightseeing in Prague, to venturing to castles and churches in the countryside, we filled our cup with lots of colorful and extensive local history, an appreciation for the area’s enduring craftsmanship, and plenty of family time.

The city is extremely walkable with charming and functional cobblestone streets that are well-suited to colder climates as well as being easier to repair. We loved visiting the Christmas Markets, sampling plenty of gingerbread, and browsing the crystal that the Czech Republic is famous for crafting.

Getting around outside of Prague was easy, and we ventured to two castles. The first, Czesky Sternbeck, is a private residence that was open for a homespun tour. I was totally enamored by the tile fireplaces and by the vast antique armory. Hunting culture in the Czech countryside embodied both sport as well as necessity–people needed sustenance!

One of my favorite things that I learned during the tour was that a book was often given as a highly prized birthday gift. With the cost of a book being the equivalent to that of a house (!), these gifts were treasured offerings and became beloved additions to the castle library.

The second castle we visited, Hrad Hluboka, was bigger with stag heads flanking the entrance. Hunting gear, hunting prizes, and the family coat of arms were also featured prominently here and contributed to the grand atmosphere.

I believe that furniture can tell a story in a person’s history, and the beautiful heirloom pieces found in these castles underscored the fact that timeless pieces passed down over generations often trump what is new and shiny.

On Thanksgiving Day, we traveled to Kutna Hora and visited multiple churches including the famous Cemetery Church of All Saints, aka the Bone Church. Thousands of people who died during the Black Plague were buried in a mass grave, and artists were commissioned to arrange the bones in an artistic way while honoring the dead. The second church we visited was less macabre, and I was fortunate enough to gain access to the cathedral’s attic to see how the domes were designed and laid.

My favorite part of travel and learning local history is how it always encourages me to be curious and seek out even more information. Whether you can make it to the Czech Republic sometime soon or not, I’d recommend watching One Life and The Empress in order to learn more about this storied place’s historic past.

Designer Worthy Holiday Hostess Gift Guide

November 13, 2024 Sara Hillery

As we usher in the busy holiday season, taking time to give thoughtful and elegant gifts is always at the top of our list. Using good taste to choose delightful hostess gifts is a powerful way to give thanks to those who feed, house, and bring together guests. We've rounded up our favorite holiday hostess gift ideas (oh so perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s) that are functional, festive, and (of course) designer worthy.

Paris is always a good idea! This 1950s print depicting a Merry-Go-Round will add chic playfulness to your abode. One-of-a-kind, and available at Sara Hillery Home.

We love these chocolate truffles by Louis Sherry nestled in a keepsake John Derian tin. Each decorated tin contains 12 Belgian truffles in flavors like Passion Fruit Kumquat and Turkish Coffee and begs to be repurposed for office or bedside table needs when the chocolates are all gone.

You can’t go wrong with a coffee table book, and THE LIVING ROOM book by the Design Leadership Network shares photographs of beautiful living room designs by interior designers. We were honored to be among the interior designers included in this book. Perfect for architecture and interior design lovers, this tome provides thoughtful and practical advice for executing projects in a variety of sizes.

This backgammon set by Aerin and Gracie Studio is a splurge, but we can’t imagine a prettier gift (and it’s on Sara’s wish list too)! Flowers and birds adorn the inside and outside of the set, making it as gorgeous to look at when it’s on a shelf as when players are in a fierce battle to bear off their pieces.

Jo Malone candles have a cult following for good reason: they last and last (approximately 45 hours) and are deliciously fragrant without being cloying or overwhelming. Sara’s favorite scent, Red Roses, will transport your hostess straight to a lush garden in bloom, no matter what time of year.

For the hostess who values elegance and artistry, this handcrafted porcelain trinket box from Ginori 1735 is an heirloom worthy gift. Made in Italy, the floral-themed box can hold jewelry or small mementos of your friendship.

These are such an easy, and chic, hostess gift - one you can turn into a game at any event! The beautiful design reminds us of our visit to Nantucket by Design earlier this year. Get yours at Tuckernuck before they are sold out!

Flowers are an evergreen hostess gift, but you can level up by bringing them in one of these beautiful vases by Piano Piano, handcrafted in Italy.

Tis the season for a holiday cocktail! Created in collaboration with Baccarat and embroidery designer Kim Seybert, this set of linen napkins includes six different embroidered, hand drawn cocktail glasses to inspire your hostess’s drink list.

A festive addition for a holiday or New Year’s party (or anytime you want instant party vibes), these confetti glasses at Anthropologie bring a punchy flair to old fashioneds or to good ole fashioned punch.

Caroline’s Cakes is a South Carolina based bakery (with easy shipping options - perfect for easy and delicious gifting!) This caramel cake is a southern delicacy that will impress your hostess, whether she serves it to the crowd or keeps it for herself!

This bamboo flatware set proves that fun and funky style doesn’t always have to be accompanied by a sky high price tag. The fact that it’s dishwasher safe is a plus too!

Made of 100% melamine, this durable set for four includes dinner plates, salad plates, and bowls.The bamboo border is endlessly versatile, making this set usable for casual meals or paired with glitzier chargers or linens for a special occasion.

One of our tried and true secrets: it’s the details that make the design. A pop of green piping elevates the simplicity of these white scalloped napkins and will make any table setting feel special whether for the holidays or everyday.

Bringing a bottle of wine to a gathering is always appreciated, but pairing one with this Yeti wine chiller is a gamechanger. With a double wall vacuum insulation to keep bottles at that just-right temperature and a bunch of vivid color options, this wine cooler is perfect for parties and picnics.

Oysters are a decadent delicacy; serving them on these ceramic oyster shells takes entertaining up a notch (and makes for a less messy presentation). The set of 12 shells can withstand heat from the oven or grill and are dishwasher-safe, while the simple design is both functional and classic.

Mother's Day Gift Guide

May 5, 2023 Sara Hillery

When I was thinking of ideas for a Mother’s Day gift guide, I kept coming back to one word: joy!

Motherhood is complicated and ever-evolving, yet being a mother to my three children is ultimately one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had. Mothers are experts at juggling a million things while making the world feel safe and loving, so I wanted to focus on bringing the mothers in our lives as much joy as possible.

Pickleball Paddle:

Have you been bitten by the pickleball bug yet? These paddles are reason enough alone to start playing. Named after beloved towns and in a variety of stripes, gingham, patterns, and appealing colors, the paddles are lightweight, eye-catching, and as sweet as the brand’s name: Tangerine. P.S. They also have a Mother’s Day bundle on sale!

Puzzle:

Doing puzzles is a prime example of a simple joy. Anyone who has ever fit that last piece in to complete a puzzle knows how satisfying it feels. This particular puzzle will inspire Mom to seek the most basic pleasures with illustrations of fresh berries, flowers, crayons, and music. Moms with older kids will cherish the opportunity to do a puzzle together, but if you are gifting this to a mom with young ones, throw in an IOU for some babysitting time so that she can puzzle in peace.

Bouquets: With How-To Tutorials by Laura Dowling, $35.00

Design Book:

Flowers, a perennial Mother’s Day favorite, last for only a moment, but Bouquets: With How To Tutorials will give Mom the inspiration and skills to create floral showpieces for any desired occasion. This beautiful book by Laura Dowling, former White House Chief of Floral Design, breaks down bouquets into simple, manageable steps and is organized by emotions and feelings. Dowling also has a book devoted to wreaths for every season!

Shiatsu Massager:

Okay, so it’s not the most design-friendly Mother’s Day present, but this portable kneading massager will be a guaranteed winner especially since moms are always carrying a heavy load (literally and figuratively). The massager works on the neck, back, shoulders, and even on legs. Did we mention it has healing features too?

Meaningful Donation:

For the mom who has everything she wants and needs, consider making a Mother’s Day donation in her honor. In Richmond, I recommend our local Habitat for Humanity and Little Hands Virginia, which provides essentials to economically disadvantaged children in the first years of their lives. Earlier in the month, I partnered up with Little Hands Virginia for Richmond’s inaugural Spring Tablescapes Showcase - Stay tuned for more on this wonderful event in the next blog post!

A Mardi Gras Table in Richmond

February 17, 2023 Sara Hillery

While we may be miles away from New Orleans, the spirit of Mardi Gras is alive and well in Richmond, Virginia!

As a New Orleanian and proud member of the Krewe of Hermes, my husband couldn't let this year’s Mardi Gras festivities pass us by without celebrating in our own way. We wanted to bring the magic of Mardi Gras to our home and host a dinner party for our friends in Richmond to introduce them to some of our family’s most beloved traditions. So tonight, I am celebrating Mardi Gras in style with a dinner party filled with delicious food, great company, and cheer.

To start, I set the table with dainty floral plates, green wine goblets, and lavender napkins to reflect the traditional Mardi Gras color scheme. I love the freshness of the Wedgwood Avon Lavender salad plates and layered these on top of Wedgwood Traditions dinner plates.

Previously purchased gold chargers and blue placemats from my personal collection anchor the table setting. The glassware includes green wine goblets handmade in Poland coupled with vintage and collected antique glasses. Polished Chantilly silverware adds high shine to the muted tablescape while gold metal masks introduce intrigue to the scene.

For greenery, I placed fern leaves and a preserved boxwood ball on top of a lavender runner. I handpicked flowers including Lenten roses, Hellebore flowers, baby’s breath, daisies, and purple Aster and added these blooms to various antique silver bud vases collected over time. Finally, I sprinkled in a few figs throughout the table to add interest and depth.

Meanwhile, sparkling beads, doubloons, and parade throws adorn the floating shelf in the Dining Room’s alcove, paying homage to the iconic traditions of Carnival.

Tonight’s Cajun-inspired dinner menu is fit for a king and includes chargrilled oysters, filet, green beans, rice, and a bowl of my husband’s famous gumbo- a dish as flavorful as it is comforting. And of course, we are indulging in Randazzo’s classic king cake paired with Bluebell vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Here is to a night to remember as we celebrate Mardi Gras with good friends and good food, even from afar. Laissez les bons temps rouler! Let the good times roll!

How to Show Love through Your Home

February 13, 2023 Sara Hillery

Valentine’s Day is here- but I don’t think that you need a designated day to show love for the people that you care for the most in your life. I believe that you can make your home a place where residents and guests alike will feel the love any day throughout the year with just a few simple adjustments. In the words of bell hooks, “Love is an action, never simply a feeling.”

Design your space for every age and stage:

Interior design is deeply personal. While your spaces should work for you, it’s also important to make accommodations for the wants and needs of others around you.

Perhaps you have aging parents and want to make their guest room as comfortable and safe as possible. Adding extra pillows and blankets for comfort, moving furniture pieces around for easier navigation, and even putting a nightlight in the bathroom can help them feel more welcome.

For younger guests, a basket of toys or puzzles will be an instant win (and can easily be stashed away when your little visitors leave). It’s an unwritten rule that the toys at someone else’s house are always more fun to play with! And with the kids occupied, Mom or Dad may even get the chance to sit down and relax.

Adorn your space with flowers:

Flowers on Valentine’s Day? Not exactly groundbreaking (though I’ll never turn them down!).

But buying, giving, and displaying flowers “just because” will give everyone who sees them a boost. A bouquet on a bedside table, an arrangement on your partner’s home office desk, or even a bud vase with a single bloom in the bathroom can add a little life to a space.

For a longer-lasting option, choose a succulent or another unfussy plant like an orchid.

Celebrate on a regular basis:

Too often, we feel like we have to save certain elements of our home and life (using our best china, uncorking that specially purchased bottle of wine, etc) for the biggest special occasions. But life is too short not to be celebrated and enjoyed!

So dine by candlelight, draw a bubble bath with those overpriced suds, invite friends over “just because” and have their favorite snacks and treats on hand.

In today’s busy world, a little time and effort will make someone immediately feel loved.

Create spaces to honor your past, present, and future:

Feeling noticed and seen is an integral part of feeling loved. Have photos of your favorites out and on display.

If your best friend from college comes to visit, set out (or move to a more prominent position) a favorite framed photo of the two of you. She’ll feel a part of your life even when if there are usually thousands of miles between the two of you.

For your family, create a bulletin board or calendar space where you can celebrate today’s phase of life. Some fun ideas include:

Showing off your child’s latest creations
Picking a date for a family afternoon of hot chocolate and board games (or whatever activity you’d all be excited about) and marking it on your calendar
Putting up a dry erase board where people can doodle or leave each other love notes

This special family space will serve as a daily reminder of your connections.

In with the Old and In with the New

January 24, 2023 Sara Hillery

Although the saying goes, “Out with the old, in with the new”, I think there should be an asterisk when it comes to interior design. Instead, “In with the old AND in with the new” reflects my penchant for creating spaces that combine the history and quality of old pieces with fresh style, new materials, and modern sensibilities.

I have had a soft spot for antiques since I was young because my mom has always been an avid antiquer. On family road trips, we made time to stop and look for the one thing that we couldn’t live without and the story that went along with it.

And maybe because of this, I have always loved history and learning about how each design era, phase, or fad is a reaction to something going on politically in the world. And to this day, the history buff in me is delighted to come across furniture or art that captures a particular place and moment in time.

But at the same time, I love how new textures, colors, and forms make a space feel fresh and current. I believe that you can have your cake and eat it too when it comes to combining trends yet making designs feel classic! Today, I want to share a few examples of how to do this in your own home.

One of my favorite tricks for mixing old and new is to include a small detail with big impact. Adding a funky goat leg on a stool or table leg is an easy and whimsical way to add playfulness to a space without it seeming totally out of place.

Confession: I had antique chairs in my kitchen for a while but I kept needing to repair them. At the time, I had young children and was looking for a more kid-friendly solution during a season of life when I valued ease, comfort, and durability. I bought several ghost chairs, which are super easy to wipe down and pair well with my table despite being stylistically different. Acrylics and antiques look fantastic together!

I don’t have to worry about spills or messes- and the chairs help this space feel more open and airier.

New fabric can equal new life! Another quick yet transformative fix for antiques and older pieces is re-upholstering. You’d be amazed at how different a room can feel when you swap out the tired fabric on even one chair or sofa. Updating this settee with a dark pink and white damask gives it a modern flavor. If you’ve got some basic DIY skills, you can try tackling reupholstering a simple shape yourself, or you can leave it to the professionals.

A fresh coat of paint is all that it takes to bring an 18th-century furniture style into the present day. With the Chippendale chair’s classic shape, you can go bold and bright with your color choices. In this room, the chairs look fresh and fun and complement the bright white decor and vivid blue details.

Finding playful yet refined and timeless ways to mix and match antiques with newer pieces and elements is our brand’s bread and butter. As 2023 begins, I am more inspired than ever to help clients create spaces that reflect their varied style preferences and to show that some design rules are made to be broken (or at least bent) to fit today’s lifestyles.

Pantone Color of the Year: Viva Magenta

January 20, 2023 Sara Hillery

Pantone’s 2023 Color of the Year, Viva Magenta, bursts with vibrant energy. This strong color in the red family may be too extra as an “all over” color- However, used sparingly, it brings a surprising liveliness and fun-loving sensibility to the spaces it graces.

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Slide 1: Kip Dawkins Photography, Slide 2-5: Gordon Gregory Photography

Scroll through for a few of my favorite Viva Magenta (and Viva Magenta adjacent) items to add a bit of this color’s brightness into your life!

Try out this year’s color without the commitment: on your nails. Such a vibrant nail color will give you an instant lift whenever you look at it, even if it’s during your fourth zoom meeting of the day.

Magenta Silk Dupion Gathered Lamp Shade, The Ginger Jar Lamp Co., $131

This silk dupion lampshade will add a fun touch of whimsy to any room! Pair it with a sleek modern base in black or white for a dramatic contrast or experiment with pattern for a playful accent.

Dip-Dyed Alpaca Throw, Casa Branca, $465

This dip-dyed alpaca throw will instantly zhuzh up a plain sofa- and feels super luxurious to cuddle up with!

'Sissinghurst with Blue Bowl' by Dana Gibson, Scout Design Studio, $660

I love local RVA artist Dana Gibson’s still life paintings, and this print with its bright background will instantly infuse personality to even the most ho-hum room or hallway.

Seaweed, Blackwell Botanicals, Contact store for pricing details

This gorgeous seaweed, with its ruffle-like appearance, is a very cool, unexpectedly chic addition for nature lovers.

Visit Ibiza without leaving the coziness of your own home with this coffee table book that is made to be displayed and admired.

Ikat Silk-Velvet Cushion, Matches Fashion, $120

Ikat is always in style!

Dessert Plate Set of 2, La DoubleJ, $125

I love the contrast of this 3D geometric pattern on a round plate!

A simple pitcher in a striking hue.

A touch of the tropics for your next dinner party!

Flower Quilted Placemat - Pink, Furbish Studio, $11

I cannot get enough of this cheery batik print!

Icon Pink 24-Pc Setting by Sabre, Gracious Style, $486

Love this classic flatware set in an unexpected color!

I love these tumblers – There is something so fun about their shape!

Color Block Tissue Box, Jaye's Studio, $64

This tissue box cover in such a bright color is way too happy!

Love these napkin rings in an orchid motif as a fun way to dress up your table!

A stylish diffuser to add a sophisticated fragrance to your home.

These are the sweetest candle holders!

White & Pink Beaded Floral Motif Handbag, The Well Appointed House, $151

A classic pattern meets peak glam. How fun are these beaded details?

Hexagon Beeswax Candles Pack - Raspberry, Matilda Goad & Co., $55

These cheerful tapers provide a little more style than your typical candle.

Scallop Edge Napkin in Pink & Azalea, Matouk, $135

Perfect year-round from Valentine’s Day to Christmas!

Bohemian Floral Lavender & Rose Napkins, Pomegranate, $56

Add block print details to your table for a chic and casual look!

Southern Living Holiday House: Behind-The-Scenes

December 21, 2022 Sara Hillery

For Southern Living, I decked the halls and trimmed the tree in blue ribbon for a fresh and icy take on traditional Christmas décor for the magazine’s Holiday House feature. And since the article hit newsstands, my family and I have dodged the question, “Does your house always look like that?” with wry smiles.

This photoshoot captured a special moment in time, and I called upon an entire team of helpers- from friends and family to professionals- to get each room camera ready. The process of preparing to shoot an entire home for a national magazine is multi-layered- and always more fun than work! In this post, I’ll share some of my favorite Behind-The-Scenes moments and some insight into our methods.

While the essentials of great design were there, the saying, “The cobbler’s children have no shoes” resonated with me during the initial preparation for this feature. For the past 10+ years, I have been focused on Client projects and building a team- priorities that tended to take precedence over my own home’s interior design. But the honor of being photographed by Southern Living prompted me to re-evaluate my space and take an honest look at what some of my favorite rooms would look like through a shiny lens.

For the magazine, I agreed to design a blue Christmas-themed spread. And in the weeks leading up to the photoshoot, I felt in my element- flexing a creative muscle that I usually save for Client work. But during this season, I was also my home’s loudest critic. Constant ideas on how to refine my space raced through my mind: Should I recover my two sofas from brown to blue? Well, if I do that, I’ll have to buy a new lampshade. And if I buy a new lampshade, I should probably just replace this lamp.

While tedious, these last-minute changes only enhanced each room and continued to add hints of blue throughout the project. After I selected additional blue art pieces and called in professional art hangers to install these, I felt quietly confident that the major design elements of my home were ready to present to the world.

Next, it was time to shift gears and focus on decorating for Christmas and refining the details. Enter KK Harris, who helped me style the shoot and work on a plan of attack for conquering the “To-Dos.” While my family always decorates for the holiday season with garlands and multiple Christmas trees, having a stylist proved to be incredibly helpful- especially when pressed for time.

I am always dreaming up holiday tablescapes and wanted to make sure that this one stood out! So at the eleventh hour, I sought out vintage napkins and had them custom monogrammed by my friend, Simply Blessed. My mom came over early to help polish silver until it gleamed and glistened. And before we knew it, the photographer, Alison Gootee, knocked on the front door. It was showtime.

As they say, the devil is in the details- and I am very appreciative of all of the work that went into styling for the camera. The stylist arrived with additional complementary greenery for each vignette- and as much as I love gardening, it was wonderful to have KK’s take on the floral arrangements.

Moreover, she prepared endless festive food and drinks for the camera including peppermint bark and hot cocoa. It was difficult not to enjoy these treats before they were photographed! And during this busy season, one of the best perks was that KK and my mom even wrapped presents for underneath the trees (way ahead of when I typically get these set out!) while my daughter cherished entertaining KK’s son.

As the rooms were styled, we examined each shot with Alison to determine what might be out of place or need to move. And no matter how much we thought we had each shot ready; we always saw something to improve on in the camera. It was so wonderful to observe Alison’s process- and with each passing shot, take a deep breath, and savor the moment.

As chaotic as this season proved to be, I was able to rejoice in it alongside such a dedicated team who helped me attend to every detail when every detail mattered. Almost one year later, the Southern Living Holiday House feature captured a labor of love on glossy pages- preserving extraordinary memories that will last a lifetime for my family and team. Thank you to everyone who helped to realize this opportunity. Enjoy some of my favorite outtakes below!

Gift Guide

December 14, 2022 Sara Hillery

The latest Sara Hillery Interior Design Gift Guide is here! Scroll through to find the perfect gift for the most fun-loving friend or family member on your list!

Suzanne Kasler: Edited Style, Barnes & Noble, $57.50

The queen of edited elegance released a new book!

Palm Beach Playing Cards, LouLou Baker, $32

These cheerful playing cards provide a little more style than your typical red or blue set.

How fun are these metal earrings? Everyone on my team has a pair!

Chinoiserie is always in style!

The Perfectly Imperfect Home by Deborah Needleman, Barnes & Noble, $32.50

Such a happy book on how to decorate and live well.

Custom Backgammon Board, Nine Fair, Price and availability varies

A custom backgammon board brings back a classic game in updated colors.

Combed Marble Daily Planner, Papier, $32

This simple and bright planner will keep you organized in style in 2023.

I love the curves and color on this lantern sconce!

Virginia Mammal Pillow, Sara Hillery Home, $300 each

So excited about these winning pillows in last year’s “Made in VA Awards.”

Party Tumbler (Set of 6), Zafferano America, $159

I love this tumbler – There is something so fun about polka dots on a table!

Too Much Needlepoint Pillow, Furbish, $104

This needlepoint pillow in such a bright color is way too much fun!

Michael Aram Pink Dogwood Napkin Rings, Moda Home, $100

Love these napkin rings in a dogwood motif as a nod to my home state of Virginia!

Mally’s Little Handbook, Mally Skok Design, $22

My friend published this book last summer and it still is a favorite!

Goat Leg Leather Upholstered Stool, Sara Hillery Home, $1,500

Anyone who knows me knows that I love anything that looks like it can walk.

K&K Interiors Preserved Boxwood Single Ball Topiary in Pot, Amazon, $89

A simple topiary can elevate any space.

Citrus Clementine Folded by Gina Langford, Dogwood Hill, $48.75

These are the best notecards! I included a custom set in my Lenox Hill tablescape.

20 Piece Bamboo Flatware Set for 4, Sara Hillery Home, $36

A touch of the tropics for your next dinner party!

Set of 4 Batik Placemats in Coral, Amanda Lindroth, $45

I cannot get enough of this cheery batik print!

12-Piece Melamine Bamboo Dinnerware Set for 4

Add bamboo details to your holiday table and celebrate the season in style

Peak fashion meets peak comfort. And how fun are these pom-poms?

Scalloped Napkin, Sara Hillery Home, $30

Perfect year-round from Mardi-Gras to Christmas!

Thanksgiving Tablescape

November 8, 2022 Sara Hillery

Happy Thanksgiving from my table to yours!

This season, I have been inspired by the simplicity of the original Thanksgiving- and have sought to design a humble, earthy tablescape as a reminder of the holiday’s central message of gathering, sharing, and giving thanks.

A Touch of the Tropics:

Despite the forecast, I have been embracing inspiration from the tropics!

This bamboo tablecloth serves as a playful foundation while its brown hue allows this base layer to remain somewhat muted and very versatile.

Touches of bamboo seem to evoke a casual elegance – and I simply cannot get enough of this natural element! Since designing a table for the 2022 Lenox Hill Neighborhood House Gala, I have been incorporating bamboo silverware into my recent place settings. This bamboo flatware set now available on Sara Hillery Home acts as an additional cheerful nod to an island paradise.

These natural elements work in tandem to add texture as well as echo the familiar warm palette associated with autumn.

Chargers and China:

How fun are these green scalloped rice paper placemats? They are another earthy yet elegant base for today’s place setting.

In addition to the down-to-earth placemats, blue gold-rimmed China and white bamboo plates are layered on top of one another for a polished yet relaxed look.

Garden Centerpieces:

When tablescaping, be sure to include greenery! Even modest garden herbs in terracotta pots can liven up a table. Moreover, garden herb centerpieces can add an aromatic scent to an already delicious meal!

Upcycled Napkins:

This season, I have been inspired by the resourcefulness and practicality of the original Thanksgiving and sought to reuse elements- including these napkins- from my personal collection.

Another way easy way to add interest to a tablescape includes alternating napkin patterns. Deviating away from formal and traditional monogram linens, I mixed pink batik napkins with a blue block print pattern which resulted in a vibrant, eclectic blend. I even chose to forgo a napkin ring!

These simple napkin choices can create a casual and welcoming atmosphere.

Gratitude Notes for Guests:

Finally, handwritten notes of gratitude for each guest act as name cards.

I am hopeful that these messages of appreciation remind each guest how extraordinary they are and that they have a meaningful souvenir to take home.

Thank you for following along!

3 Ways to Infuse the Warm, Cozy Color of Orange Into Your Life for Fall

September 27, 2022 Sara Hillery

Fall is (almost) officially here, and lately we’ve been seeing an influx of a somewhat polarizing seasonal color: burnt orange. Some people agree with Elle Woods in Legally Blonde: “Whoever said orange was the new pink was seriously disturbed.” Others love the color that instantly reminds them of favorite fall activities like pumpkin picking, trick-or-treating, or pumpkin-spice-latte-drinking.

Our take? Orange may not be a match for pink, but in deep, rich shades it can be surprisingly versatile and chic. Warm and welcoming hues feel invigorating and youthful--just steer clear of bright, electric oranges, which trend toward the artificial. To show you how we would integrate orange, we’re showcasing three examples that range from a pretty considerable commitment to the color to just dipping a toe in (literally). Embrace orange at whatever level you choose, but don’t be afraid to try a new-to-you hue!

This study highlights how orange can be tastefully incorporated throughout a room without being garish or dominating. We used richer shades of orange to create a space that feels vibrant yet calm and professional. The deep orange armchairs are sumptuous and illustrate how certain oranges can act almost as a neutral, playing well with blues, grey blues, and beiges. The rug, trimmed and patterned with orange detailing, helps tie the room together. Orange doesn’t scream here; it beckons, creating an inviting and surprisingly classy ambiance.

You don’t have to feel that it’s necessary to commit to a piece of furniture or a larger room element: try out some orange accent pieces to see if you warm up to this versatile color. Pillows or throw blankets are a great place to start as they are a minimal investment and can be easily swapped out. Or bring the color into a space naturally: cut branches with leaves that have turned a rich orange and arrange in a vase to give life to a room. Orange flowers such as begonias, lantanas, tithonia (or Mexican sunflowers), carnations, or coreopsis are also colorful options.

Still not convinced? Take the color out for a spin! Orange infuses sweater, shoes, earrings, and a clutch with an unexpected pop of color and energy so swap in something orange for your typical go-to colors and observe how it makes you feel. It may give you just the lift you need for a marathon pumpkin carving session!

Back to School and Work From Home Desk Set Ups

August 30, 2022 Sara Hillery

Whether summer is a whirlwind of activities, vacations, and camps or a time when we simply savor evenings on the porch and more laid-back schedules, we like to use the back-to-school time for a full family work-life recalibration. For our kids, it’s been months since they sat at a desk or did homework, and we’ve also found ourselves working from places outside of the office more frequently as well (especially when the local pool has wifi).

Everyone could use a fresh start getting back to the grind, and having an appealing homework/work-from-home arrangement makes us feel motivated and organized. We combed through some past SHID designs to give you ideas for making the back to homework/work transition as seamless as possible for you and your family!

One of our favorite family work and homework set-ups! With wraparound desk space and a tucked away bookshelf, this office is cheerful, minimal, and ideal for co-working, even if your “co-worker” is concentrating on mastering the alphabet.

Let’s get real: sitting at a desk for hours can be a drag, so why not inject a hefty dose of color and fun? Bright pink adds energy and allure, while a multitude of cabinets and drawers make it easy to keep the desk clean and organized.

This sweet bedside desk is simple, warm, and welcoming. Getting kids used to having a quiet space of their own to draw, dream, or read is an important way to help them build good study and learning habits for years to come!

It’s not a traditional desk, but this cozy yet spacious banquette can serve as the perfect place for a homework session. The light-filled space works just as well for younger kids who might need a little more oversight while parents make dinner as it does for older kids who host a group project session over snacks.

Calm and compact, this desk set-up doesn’t require much space, but it’s inspiring in its simplicity and usefulness and ideal for kids (or adults) who need to remove as many distractions as possible in order to focus.

Savor The End of Summer (with a designer's attention to detail)

July 27, 2022 Sara Hillery

Ahh, summer! We love engaging ALL of our senses this time of year. From admiring the vivid colors of hydrangeas in bloom to smelling sweet honeysuckle to reveling in the sensation of jumping in the pool after a sizzling hot day, summer is a sensory feast, and we never get our fill. Despite our attempts to slow time down, the season always seems to go way too fast, so before we slip into fall, we wanted to share a few of the ways in which we plan to savor the end of summer.

FRUIT PICKING

Selecting fragrant, warmed-by-the-sun fruit yourself is next level fun, especially when kids get involved, so an orchard outing is on our August calendar. After the picking comes the best part—dreaming up and then making pies, crisps, jams and syrups (as well as freezing some our hall for mid-winter when we’ll be craving fruit). We’re hoping to snag some peaches before making a fall trip for apples and pumpkins!

FLOWER PRESSING

I have fond memories of pressing flowers as a child and gifting them to my mother. Now as a designer, I love the idea of extending the life of favorite seasonal blooms including hydrangeas, daisies, and zinnias and framing them for a simple, yet timeless display. There are plenty of flower press kits for purchase, but if you have a little time and some basic materials, you can make your own.

TIE DYEING

Nothing says “summer camp” like good old tie-dye and with good reason: it’s a fun outdoor activity for all ages! Playing around with different patterns and folds will take your design to the next level, but you can also improvise with color and style. If you already have enough tie-dyed shirts to last a lifetime, consider giving linen or cotton placemats, napkins, towels, or tablecloths a visually striking—and playful—upgrade.

EASY OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING

Our favorite summer memories often involve low-key cookouts, barbeques, and hang outs that naturally come together after long days at the pool or post-Little League game. We fully embrace these spontaneous gatherings (especially when there’s a slip ‘n slide involved), and we recommend having the ingredients on hand for a few favorites that come together without much fuss. S’mores, a shrimp boil, watermelon (either by itself or as part of a feta salad), cheeses with an assortment of crackers, and fruits and veggies that are easy to grill are among our staple entertaining standbys. Insider scoop: grilled pineapple topped with ice cream is a homerun every time!

FARMER’S MARKET

Who doesn’t love a farmer’s market? Between the visual array of seasonal produce, the smell of flowers, the delicious try-before-you-buy tasters, and the sound of people chitchatting about their favorite vendors and afternoon plans, it’s a true sensory heaven as well as an important community space that honors and celebrates local growers and makers. I am always inspired when I visit our local farmer’s market, whether it be a result of seeing the rainbow of fruits and veggies or hearing how a vendor turned an interest in fermentation into a tasty side hustle. I can’t make summer last forever, but squeezing the enjoyment out of the season’s simple pleasures makes every moment sweeter.