So, just imagine flicking through the pages of Elle Decor or House & Garden, where every room is perfectly styled and oozing elegance, yet somehow still feels inviting. These interior designers are like miracle workers, right? They’re about to make any home appear classy! These homes are polished, refined, and effortlessly stylish—without looking overly modern or like they belong in a time capsule.
They’re spaces that feel lived-in but sophisticated, with a timeless vibe that avoids trend overload. But how can you create that? It’s not like everyone can have that interior design gift, right? Well, here’s how to recreate that editorial look in your own home and make it feel like it stepped right out of the pages of a magazine.
Choose Quality Over Quantity
What’s one thing that stands out in editorial-styled homes? Well, every single item seems chosen with purpose. Seriously though, there’s no random clutter; instead, each piece feels like it’s there for a reason. In these homes, it’s all about quality over quantity. Rather than filling a room with decor for the sake of it, they go for fewer, higher-quality pieces that truly stand out.
You’re going to want to look for furniture and decor that’s well-made and built to last. Think about pieces that add character, like a vintage armchair, an antique dresser, or custom shelving that fits the space perfectly. Investing in quality materials—like solid wood, natural stone, and fine fabrics—gives the room a refined feel that trendy, disposable items simply can’t match. It’s not about spending a fortune but about choosing things that add substance and style to the room.
Stick with Timeless Colours
Have you ever noticed how editorial homes avoid over-the-top colour schemes? Well, instead, they stick to classic, neutral tones like soft whites, greys, taupes, and earthy shades. These colours create a calming backdrop that’s easy on the eyes and lets other elements shine.
If neutrals sound too safe, consider adding depth with rich accent colours. You can go with white, but honestly, it’s not necessary. For example, jewel tones like emerald green or navy can add sophistication in smaller doses, while muted pastels like sage or dusty rose bring warmth without taking over. This way, the colour becomes an elegant touch rather than stealing the show.
Choose Art with Personality
You probably already knew this, but artwork is huge in editorial-style homes, and it’s not just about covering wall space. Instead, it’s all about choosing pieces that feel special and bring the room to life. But ideally, original artwork, whether it’s a painting, sculpture, or even photography, can completely transform a space. Actually, you should try to get the original if you can.
But big statement pieces work brilliantly in these spaces—think large-scale abstract paintings or serene landscapes that give the room depth. But in all honesty, art can come in many forms nowadays. For example, you can create a mural with wallpaper, but you could even use luxury tiles and create a mural with those too (such as for the bathroom for example). But why not go for something breathtaking? Seriously, never settle for boring!
Layer Textures for Richness
In an editorial-styled home, the rooms are as much about feel as they are about looks. Adding different textures gives a space depth, making it feel rich and inviting. It’s all about layering, whether that’s a soft velvet cushion against a leather sofa or a rustic wool rug paired with a glossy coffee table.
Besides, textures add warmth and comfort to a room, making it feel like a place you want to spend time in. For example, you could even try mixing fabrics like linen, silk, and cashmere, or adding unexpected textures like plaster or stone details on the walls. You’ll usually see these in magazines, it’s fairly common, and pretty timeless too.
Perfect the Lighting
Is this generic? Yeah, it might be, but is it true? Well, absolutely! Beautiful homes need to have beautiful lighting; it’s as simple as that. You want soft, warm lighting that creates an inviting glow. So it can’t be overhead lighting!
Pick One or Two Statement Pieces
Editorial homes love a good statement piece, but they don’t go overboard. Instead of a room full of “wow” pieces that clash, they focus on one or two standout elements. Well, usually, they don’t go overboard, but if you watch celebrity homes on Architectural Digest, then yes, you’ll most likely find some that go overboard.
But you’re better off going with no more than two! So, a designer coffee table, a stunning armchair, or a vintage mirror can add just the right amount of flair without overpowering the space. The foundation of design is balance, really, it’s as simple as that.
Organise with a Lived-In Touch
Unlike showroom-style homes, an editorial-styled space feels lived-in but never messy. Again, this is some generic advice, but storage is key here, such as shelves, stylish baskets, and hidden storage options to keep clutter at bay.
But it’s also important that the space feels warm and real, not overly staged. That’s what people get wrong, being overly staged. Sure, that candle is fine, and that bouquet of fresh-cut flowers is fine, but don’t go overboard, or else it kills the magic.
Bring in Natural Elements
Now, this is major; you need to incorporate nature! Natural materials like wood, stone, linen, and plants bring a touch of warmth and calm to any room. Wood floors, marble countertops, or slate detailing give a grounded, organic feel that’s hard to replicate.
And don’t underestimate the power of plants. One or two statement plants—think a tall potted tree (like a Kenetia palm or Birds of Paradise) or even a collection of smaller ones—can breathe life into a room. You can even make aplant throne if you want to!
Create Flow Throughout the Home
One of the best things about editorial homes is how every room feels connected. There’s a sense of flow, as though each space tells a part of the home’s story. But here’s the thing: achieving this doesn’t mean every room looks identical; it’s about creating a theme or style that carries from one room to the next. Just look at homes in magazines, and you’ll see for yourself that nothing is obstructed.
You’re going to want to look for furniture and decor that’s well-made and built to last. Think about pieces that add character, like a vintage armchair, an antique dresser, or custom shelving that fits the space perfectly. Investing in quality materials—like solid wood, natural stone, and fine fabrics—gives the room a refined feel that trendy, disposable items simply can’t match. It’s not about spending a fortune but about choosing things that add substance and style to the room.
Stick with Timeless Colours
Have you ever noticed how editorial homes avoid over-the-top colour schemes? Well, instead, they stick to classic, neutral tones like soft whites, greys, taupes, and earthy shades. These colours create a calming backdrop that’s easy on the eyes and lets other elements shine.
If neutrals sound too safe, consider adding depth with rich accent colours. You can go with white, but honestly, it’s not necessary. For example, jewel tones like emerald green or navy can add sophistication in smaller doses, while muted pastels like sage or dusty rose bring warmth without taking over. This way, the colour becomes an elegant touch rather than stealing the show.
Choose Art with Personality
You probably already knew this, but artwork is huge in editorial-style homes, and it’s not just about covering wall space. Instead, it’s all about choosing pieces that feel special and bring the room to life. But ideally, original artwork, whether it’s a painting, sculpture, or even photography, can completely transform a space. Actually, you should try to get the original if you can.
But big statement pieces work brilliantly in these spaces—think large-scale abstract paintings or serene landscapes that give the room depth. But in all honesty, art can come in many forms nowadays. For example, you can create a mural with wallpaper, but you could even use luxury tiles and create a mural with those too (such as for the bathroom for example). But why not go for something breathtaking? Seriously, never settle for boring!
Layer Textures for Richness
In an editorial-styled home, the rooms are as much about feel as they are about looks. Adding different textures gives a space depth, making it feel rich and inviting. It’s all about layering, whether that’s a soft velvet cushion against a leather sofa or a rustic wool rug paired with a glossy coffee table.
Besides, textures add warmth and comfort to a room, making it feel like a place you want to spend time in. For example, you could even try mixing fabrics like linen, silk, and cashmere, or adding unexpected textures like plaster or stone details on the walls. You’ll usually see these in magazines, it’s fairly common, and pretty timeless too.
Perfect the Lighting
Is this generic? Yeah, it might be, but is it true? Well, absolutely! Beautiful homes need to have beautiful lighting; it’s as simple as that. You want soft, warm lighting that creates an inviting glow. So it can’t be overhead lighting!
Pick One or Two Statement Pieces
Editorial homes love a good statement piece, but they don’t go overboard. Instead of a room full of “wow” pieces that clash, they focus on one or two standout elements. Well, usually, they don’t go overboard, but if you watch celebrity homes on Architectural Digest, then yes, you’ll most likely find some that go overboard.
But you’re better off going with no more than two! So, a designer coffee table, a stunning armchair, or a vintage mirror can add just the right amount of flair without overpowering the space. The foundation of design is balance, really, it’s as simple as that.
Organise with a Lived-In Touch
Unlike showroom-style homes, an editorial-styled space feels lived-in but never messy. Again, this is some generic advice, but storage is key here, such as shelves, stylish baskets, and hidden storage options to keep clutter at bay.
But it’s also important that the space feels warm and real, not overly staged. That’s what people get wrong, being overly staged. Sure, that candle is fine, and that bouquet of fresh-cut flowers is fine, but don’t go overboard, or else it kills the magic.
Bring in Natural Elements
Now, this is major; you need to incorporate nature! Natural materials like wood, stone, linen, and plants bring a touch of warmth and calm to any room. Wood floors, marble countertops, or slate detailing give a grounded, organic feel that’s hard to replicate.
And don’t underestimate the power of plants. One or two statement plants—think a tall potted tree (like a Kenetia palm or Birds of Paradise) or even a collection of smaller ones—can breathe life into a room. You can even make aplant throne if you want to!
Create Flow Throughout the Home
One of the best things about editorial homes is how every room feels connected. There’s a sense of flow, as though each space tells a part of the home’s story. But here’s the thing: achieving this doesn’t mean every room looks identical; it’s about creating a theme or style that carries from one room to the next. Just look at homes in magazines, and you’ll see for yourself that nothing is obstructed.
