Date: January 6, 2026 |
Have questions about your interiors? These designers have answers—64 to be exact. Read on for advice and insight from industry professionals across the state
Photos by Rett Peek. Clockwise from top left: Design by Casey Sarkin Interior Design, Meet West Studio, Tilden House Draft & Design, Kitchen & Bath Ideas, Providence Design, J. Bienvenu Interiors, Studio MH, Meet West Studio, and DeBari Home
Photo by Rett Peek. Design by HK Designs
What’s the key to a timeless kitchen or bath design?
“Trends come and go and tastes evolve over time, so I’m not sure any room can be perfectly timeless. However, using classic materials and finishes (such as natural stone and polished nickel) and thoughtfully scaled lighting and hardware creates a classic foundation that can be easily refreshed with small updates as tastes change.”
—Amy Williams, Amy Williams Design
“The key is to create a space that feels collected, not constructed. Timeless design is rooted in materials that age gracefully and develop a patina rather than simply wearing out.”
—Elaine Hunter, Home, Holidays, & More
“Homeowners should not feel compelled to do the latest color and cabinet door style. A truly functional kitchen will stand the test of time and can be refreshed through the years with new accessories and hardware.”
—Susan Johnson, Kitchen Tune-Up
“I would say light paint color for the walls. You can then paint the cabinets or the island a color and, at a later date, repaint them if you would like. A nice Shaker cabinet is timeless and has a clean look.”
—Lonnia Brooks, Lonnia Brooks Design & Events
“A timeless kitchen is one that incorporates elements that are durable, unique, and add a personal touch. Your kitchen sees the most wear and tear, so invest in the areas that you know get used on a daily basis like countertops, sinks, cabinetry, and hardware.”
—Heidi Burks and Krista Crouch, K + H Collaborative
Photo by Rett Peek. Design by K+H Collaborative
“For me, a timeless kitchen or bath starts with beautiful materials, great bones, and classic lines. A soft, warm palette with a thoughtful hint of color gives you something that still feels fresh 10 years later. You can change accessories and styling over time, but those key elements stay elegant for the long haul.”
—Shayla Copas, Shayla Copas Interiors
“In the bath, I always design the shower curtain like I would a window treatment. I use a proper rod and add tape or trim.”
—Brad Beach, Bradley Beach Interiors
“The foundation of these spaces, such as cabinetry, should be rooted in classic elements and remain consistent with the architecture of the home. Where we incorporate more ‘current’ design choices
is through color, wallpaper, hardware,
and lighting.”
—Erin Lefler and Meghan Teeter, Lefler Teeter Designs
“Custom cabinetry, classic materials like marble or ceramic tile, and an edited color palette.”
—Olivia Herring, Olivia Brooke Design
“A truly timeless kitchen or bath begins with materials that transcend trends. I gravitate toward classic, neutral, and understated finishes that quietly support the overall narrative of the home while allowing the space to evolve gracefully over time.”
—Misty Martin-Dennis, Black Door Interior Design Studio
What’s your favorite place to source vintage, antique, or other one-of-a-kind finds?
“I have made several one-of-a-kind finds at The Reloved Relic in North Little Rock.”
—Leslie Tetrev, Kitchen & Bath Ideas
“Locally, I love to hunt around Midtown Vintage Market, Sweet Home Furnishings & clement, and Providence Design. Online, Chairish is my go-to!”
—Kathryn LeMaster Jones, Kathryn J. LeMaster Art & Design
“I always seem to find something I can’t live without at Windsor Market in Tulsa.”
—Brad Beach, Bradley Beach Interiors
“I love to explore antique stores, both locally and while traveling. A few of my favorite central Arkansas locations are Old Hippy Antique Mall in Searcy, Arkansas Peddlers Antique Mall in Greenbrier, and Midtown Vintage Market and Sweet Home Furnishings & clement, both in Little Rock. Chairish is my favorite place to search online.”
—Amy Williams, Amy Williams Design
“One of my favorite sources is Daisies & Olives in my hometown of Prairie Grove. It’s a treasure trove of vintage pieces, antiques, and unique flea-market discoveries.”
—Misty Martin-Dennis, Black Door Interior Design Studio
“Jayson Cain Interiors, of course! We have a large array of one-of-a-kind pieces.”
—Jayson Cain, Jayson Cain Interiors
“Most recently, Mid Mod Mike in Little Rock!”
—Marianna O’Dea, O’Dea Studios Interior Design
Photo by Rett Peek. Design by K. Lewis Interior Design
Tell us about mixing metals. Is there a “right way” to achieve the look?
“As a guideline, I like to think of metal details in ‘like’ categories. For example, I wouldn’t choose a kitchen faucet, a prep sink faucet, and pot filler all in the same kitchen in different finishes; those would all be the ‘plumbing’ category to me. I might choose the same finish on all of the plumbing fixtures, but a contrasting finish on all of the cabinet hardware, because that is a separate category.”
—Kathryn LeMaster Jones, Kathryn J. LeMaster Art & Design
“Keep a simple flow. Some kitchens have more opportunity to mix metals because of the scale of the project, and in others a contrasting faucet is all that you need. Don’t overdo it.”
—Leslie Tetrev, Kitchen & Bath Ideas
“I like to keep all plumbing fixtures polished nickel, unless it’s a powder bathroom—then you can do a fun unlacquered brass faucet. I would add another finish in the light fixtures or cabinet hardware.”
—Olivia Herring, Olivia Brooke Design
“We like to mix metals as long as they complement each other and no more than two are used in one space.”
—Kaufman by Design West Design Team
“I mix metals all the time. It adds richness and keeps a room from looking flat or matchy. The trick is to choose one metal as the main finish—usually brass or polished nickel in my projects—and then bring in a second metal in smaller doses. As long as the undertones play nicely together, the whole room feels layered instead of chaotic.”
—Shayla Copas, Shayla Copas Interiors
Photo by Rett Peek. Design by Katie Grace Designs
Do you have any advice on how to get the most out of a small closet, pantry, or other utility space?
“It all comes down to maximizing vertical space and adopting clear containers so you can see what’s stored. In a closet, utilize the full height of the walls by going all the way to the ceiling. Use a lazy Susan in a pantry cabinet for spices and bottles, and don’t forget the back of the door!”
—Elaine Hunter, Home, Holidays, & More
“Shelving and hooks are your friends when it comes to utility spaces. You can even wrap built-in shelving and cabinetry above door frames in these small spaces to make the most of every inch!”
—Kathryn LeMaster Jones, Kathryn J. LeMaster Art & Design
“Before a new build or remodel, think about how you hope to use the space. Measure the items that you plan to store there, then work with your trim carpenter to create custom shelving that will best utilize every inch of available space.”
—Kimberly Mannis, Providence Design
“Declutter first! Create stacks of items to keep, then discard and donate.”
—Sandy Sutton, Sandy Sutton Design Center
“Thoughtful space planning, decluttering and smart storage are key to getting the most out of your small spaces. Getting rid of items you do not use and using storage containers to hold items not only keeps you organized but can also make a space look more custom and put together.”
—Heidi Burks and Krista Crouch, K + H Collaborative
Is there a color or pattern that feels very “of the moment” to you right now?
“Merlot, burgundy, and rich rose pink are of the moment right now. Pair them with a delicious brown or shades of wine, and it is perfection.”
—Kim Biggs, The Vibe Interiors
“I am loving the moment that organic textures are having—a luscious grasscloth will make me swoon every time.”
—Paula Story, Design1
“Warm and cozy colors are
back! I’m here for it.”
—Marianna O’Dea, O’Dea Studios Interior Design
“I enjoy focusing on textures: woven woods, grasscloth, velvet, mohair, and linen. The 2025 Benjamin Moore Color of the Year was ‘Cinnamon Slate,’ and it pairs well with these fabrics and colors like terracotta.”
—Sandy Sutton, Sandy Sutton Design Center
“I am working on a project where I am using several wallpapers from the Morris & Co. x The Huntington collection. One is ‘Oak & Blossom’ (right), which I placed inside a coffered ceiling and another is ‘Cornflower’ (left), which I used in the dining room.”
—Brad Beach, Bradley Beach Interiors
“I am loving the moment that organic textures are having—a luscious grasscloth will make me swoon every time.”
—Paula Story, Design1
“I’m loving deep wine with brown tones, and I love all the small floral English prints!”
—Casey Sarkin, Casey Sarkin Interior Design
“A beautiful celadon with a nice mohair. You also can’t go wrong with a touch of Fortuny print.”
—Jayson Cain, Jayson Cain Interiors
“Greens and browns. Sherwin-Williams has yummy colors like ‘Baked Cookie’ (left) and ‘Oak Moss’ (right). Also, wallpaper with patterns of anything your heart desires. Dive into Spoonflower and don’t forget to come up for air!”
—Lonnia Brooks, Lonnia Brooks Design & Events
Photo by Rett Peek. Design by Shayla Copas Interiors
Where are some of the best places to splurge vs. save in home design?
“Faucets, tile, and countertops are all a well-spent splurge in my opinion. Faucets are the jewels of the room, and countertops are the foundation of the design.”
—Leslie Tetrev, Kitchen & Bath Ideas
“Splurge on good millwork and cabinetry if you want them to last a long time! And take time to educate yourself on how they are being made.”
—Marianna O’Dea, O’Dea Studios Interior Design
“Splurge on quality furniture, especially your main pieces. While it is an investment, it’s one you can keep for many years if you invest wisely. Save on rugs. Large rugs can get expensive, and in areas that get a lot of wear, it can be hard to stomach spending so much. We often use bound carpet for a less expensive option. Also save on drapery fabric when you can. While some windows need a touch of wow, not all windows have to be showstoppers. There are less-expensive fabrics that can add warmth and beauty to a secondary space without having to carry the higher price point.”
—Kimberly Mannis, Providence Design
“I would splurge on anything you experience daily—your bed linens, living room sofa, kitchen faucet—and save on kids’ rooms and other secondary spaces.”
—Olivia Herring, Olivia Brooke Design
“An easy, cost-effective way to update your kitchen is to change out the hardware on the cabinets and update the plumbing fixtures.”
—Brad Beach, Bradley Beach Interiors
Photo by Rett Peek. Design by Lefler Teeter Designs
“I always encourage clients to invest in their primary suite. It should feel like a personal retreat; a place to unwind from the demands of daily life. Consider splurging on elements that enhance comfort and wellness, such as a cozy reading nook, upgraded lighting, a fireplace, or even a small sauna. These touches elevate the experience of home in meaningful ways.”
—Misty Martin-Dennis, Black Door Interior Design Studio
“The golden rule is to splurge on what you touch most and what is difficult to replace—think flooring, plumbing fixtures, core upholstery, light fixtures, and countertops. Save on what is easily swapped out, such as wall paint, accent furniture, and small décor and accessories.”
—Elaine Hunter, Home, Holidays, & More
“I believe that splurging on quality in the kitchen is a wise investment. Wood cabinets, although more expensive, will endure daily living activities and stand the test of time. Plus, good cabinets can be updated through the years to reflect new colors and styles without having to be replaced.”
—Susan Johnson, Kitchen Tune-Up
“Kitchen upgrades like quality cabinets, countertops, appliances, and unique hardware are a great splurge. For the bath, I focus on spa-like wellness aspects—deep soaking tubs, saunas, or steam showers. Another touch of luxury is heated floors and towel racks.”
—Sandy Sutton, Sandy Sutton Design Center
“Splurge in places that pack a visual punch—cabinets, countertops, lighting. Save on elements that tend to fall into the background—floors in a kitchen, for example.”
—Paula Story, Design 1
“Countertops, flooring, tile, and cabinetry are all places that get the most wear, so invest in those areas—it will be worth it in the end. We are also suckers for splurging on original art. If the art speaks to you and has meaning, it will always be worth it. You can save on accessories. We are always on the lookout for items that are vintage, serve a purpose, and are on sale. Visiting local antique stores and thrift stores are always great ways to find ‘the perfect piece’ that nobody else has and at a good price.”
—Heidi Burks and Krista Crouch, K + H Collaborative
Photo courtesy of Pantone Color Institute
We’re curious what you think about the Pantone Color of the Year. Does “Cloud Dancer” leave you inspired?
“‘Cloud Dancer’ does not inspire me, personally; however, I do not abide by the notion that Pantone should leave behind all neutrals (and whites). I have a cache of warm whites that each inspire me in lots of ways—this one in particular does nothing for me, though. I’d love to see more drama in a Color of the Year, but do recognize that bold hues have to share the spotlight with traditionally ‘boring’ whites sometimes!”
—Paula Story, Design1
“I think ‘Cloud Dancer’ will be a great neutral, adding just enough warmth to a room or trim. I like it!”
—Susan Johnson, Kitchen Tune-Up
“We understand the sentiment and desire for calm and a place of reflection, but this Color of the Year feels like a knee-jerk reaction to the chaos of what’s happening in the world around us. Let’s pursue the idea of ‘Cloud Dancer’ through enveloping ourselves in authentic spaces not entirely influenced by social media. Seek quality over quantity, thoughtful collections, and pursuing what you love regardless of micro-trends; this is more effective than a shade of white.”
—Erin Lefler and Meghan Teeter, Lefler Teeter Designs
“It’s not a color we tend to gravitate toward, but by mixing in textured pieces along with some muddy tones you could create a warm and relaxing environment.”
—Jayson Cain, Jayson Cain Interiors
“Not sure ‘inspired’ would be the word, but maybe ‘basic!’ It’s definitely the opposite of the Color of the Year for 2025 [Mocha Mousse]. ‘Cloud Dancer’ would be a good go-to for a mixture between white and cream, but adding color through fabrics, art, and accessories would be helpful in bringing some flavor to a space.”
—Heidi Burks and Krista Crouch, K + H Collaborative
What design trends are you ready to leave behind in 2026?
“Floor plans that are too open and interiors that are too white.”
—Kimberly Mannis, Providence Design
“I’m ready to leave bouclé and cool grays behind.”
—Amy Williams, Amy Williams Design
“Color drenching. I think it is going to feel dated in a few years.”
—Brad Beach, Bradley Beach Interiors
“We are ready to leave behind Shaker cabinets, all-white everything, and the ‘cookie cutter’ look. We are looking forward to more warmth, detail, and personality in 2026!”
—Kaufman by Design West Design Team
“’I’m excited to swap the whitewashing of spaces for warm tones and finishes that feel much more inviting.”
—Paula Story, Design1
“Accent walls! Let’s create a whole mood in a room and include every wall and detail.”
—Caroline Ferguson, The Vibe Interiors
“Overly minimalist design can feel sterile and empty, lacking personality. Rooms should reflect our journey.”
—Sandy Sutton, Sandy Sutton Design Center
“I think it’s time to officially say goodbye to the all-gray-everything trend. Homes need warmth and personality again. I’m also happy to step away from stark minimalism that feels cold and uninviting. Clients want spaces that reflect who they are—color, pattern, texture, and a little glam. Let’s bring all of that back.”
— Shayla Copas, Shayla Copas Interiors
“I am leaving behind gray and greige. I had never been a fan! Clients are straying away from it more and more.”
—Lonnia Brooks, Lonnia Brooks Design & Events
“White walls, black hardware, and white oak. I’m in the mood for color and pattern.”
—Casey Sarkin, Casey Sarkin Interior Design
“Sterile color palettes. Homeowners are embracing warmth and wood again. Wood cabinets and trim in rich colors are certainly more in demand than in past years.”
—Susan Johnson, Kitchen Tune-Up
“Ginormous kitchens!”
—Marianna O’Dea, O’Dea Studios
