Inspired Spaces: The Materials and Design Ideas We’re Loving Right Now
- Aspen & Ivy
- Mar 28
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 2
Design is always evolving, and we’re continually inspired by the creativity shaping the industry. We love exploring fresh ideas and discovering innovative materials. Here’s what’s sparking excitement within our Aspen & Ivy design team right now.
Luxury Hotel-Inspired Design
Bringing that luxury hotel experience into residential living. It’s about creating an environment at home that feels as exciting and effortless as staying in your favourite hotel, where every moment feels elevated. Consider ways to make daily life feel more indulgent, whether through little touches like high-quality bed linens and plush, supportive mattresses and pillows, or by making your guest experience feel special with hotel-style towels and robes in every room. Even in the bathroom, transforming the space into a spa-like retreat with warm lighting can make such a difference. It’s about blending comfort, convenience, and luxury to make every day feel like a getaway.
Natural Materials and Textural Details
Natural materials like marble and wood are a favourite, not only for their timeless beauty but also for their sustainability. These materials bring warmth and authenticity to a space while ensuring longevity. One of the features we love right now is incorporating fabric within millwork, as it adds softness and a sense of refinement. This application works particularly well in dressing rooms, where it enhances the tactile quality of the space while maintaining a polished look.
Wood-Panelled Walls
Wood-panelled walls are no longer just reserved for Scandinavian-inspired interiors. It’s exciting to see them making their way into traditional and transitional styles as well. There’s something about the natural warmth of the wood that completely transforms a room—it adds a cozy, welcoming vibe that makes the space feel more grounded and inviting. When wood panels surround a room, they create a sense of comfort and timelessness that’s hard to beat.
Unsaturated Hues
Muted tones offer a subtle yet impactful way to introduce colour without overwhelming a space. Some of our favourites include:
Farrow and Ball – Purbeck Stone No. 275 (cream), Light Blue No. 22 (blue), Pantalon No. 221 (green)
Benjamin Moore – Oil Cloth CSP-760 (green), Soot 2129-20 (black)
For clients who want colour but prefer a softer approach, use of these tones create depth and mood. One technique to try is colour drenching, where the walls, ceiling, trim, and doors are painted in the same hue. This creates a cohesive and immersive environment that feels both sophisticated and serene.
Curved Silhouettes and Soft Forms
There’s something incredibly inviting about rounded edges and organic shapes in furniture and architectural details. I’m seeing a continued appreciation for soft, sculptural seating, curved archways, and even fluid millwork that creates a sense of flow within a space. These elements add a sense of movement and create a welcoming, harmonious environment.
Layered Lighting for Mood and Functionality
Lighting plays a crucial role in shaping the ambiance of a space. We love the idea of layering lighting to create depth and versatility. Mixing overhead fixtures with sconces, table lamps, and even integrated LED details within cabinetry can completely transform a room. Soft, dimmable lighting in bedrooms and bathrooms enhances relaxation, while sculptural statement lighting in living areas and dining rooms acts as functional art.
If you’re feeling inspired and ready to start your next design project, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d love to collaborate and bring your vision to life!