This season, we’re inspired to design holiday displays that feel both elevated and environmentally thoughtful. We’ll be sharing a few simple, stylish swaps for seasonal styling to help you celebrate while being a little kinder to the planet.
Tip #1: Incorporate Natural Elements
We love incorporating natural elements like pinecones, branches, colorful leaves and acorns to create organic, textural moments on mantels and in centerpieces. These pieces add richness, warmth, and a sense of seasonality that feels both timeless and effortless. And when the holidays are over, they’re completely compostable, making them as kind to the planet as they are beautiful in your home.
Tip #2: Choose Alternative Wrapping
Consider planet-friendly wrapping alternatives like recycled kraft paper, hand-painted brown bags, and reusable fabric wraps made from tea towels or cloth napkins. These options feel charming, personal, and far more sustainable than most traditional gift wrap. Many conventional wrapping papers contain foil, glitter, or plastic coatings that make them non-recyclable.
Tip #3: Opt for LED Lights
Switching to LED holiday lights offers big benefits. They use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, last significantly longer, and stay much cooler for safer use. That major energy savings translates to lower utility bills, and because LEDs draw so little power, you can also hang more lights on a single circuit while still reducing your energy costs.
Tip #4: Select Natural Candles
Paraffin candles can release toxic fumes and soot into the air. Instead, opt for natural soy or beeswax candles that burn cleaner and are made from renewable resources. They’re just as beautifully festive and a much healthier choice for both your home and the planet.
For a final touch, we always recommend choosing décor that can be reused year after year. Ribbon & bows, timeless ornaments, fresh greenery, and natural textures age beautifully. Even simple switches like dimming lights in the evening, diffusing essential oils, or using décor made from natural materials can make your home feel both elegant and eco-friendly.
Wishing you a happy, healthy holiday season surrounded by the people and places you hold most dear.
Have questions about classy, curated, conscientious design? Reach out to us. We’d love to share more!
Wallpaper has made a major comeback in recent years, and it’s one of our favorite ways to infuse character into a space. Homeowners are craving more personality and visual interest than paint alone can offer. Don’t worry, we aren’t talking about the wallpaper you remember from your grandmother’s house.
Pro Tip #1: Choose the Right Room for Wallpaper
Our favorite spaces to incorporate wallpaper are spaces like powder rooms, dining rooms, entryways, and behind built-ins. These areas allow thoughtful patterns to create an immediate visual impact.
Smaller spaces are often the most forgiving, making them ideal for bolder or more colorful designs that might feel overwhelming in a larger room. That said, neutral or subtle textures shine in most spaces when the goal is to add depth without overpowering the overall aesthetic.
Pro Tip #2: Consider Adding Textured Wallpaper
Wallpaper is about so much more than color – it’s an opportunity to introduce rich texture and dimension into a space. Materials like wood, grasscloth, linen, or embossed papers create natural depth, while subtle patterns or a soft shimmer can add visual interest without overwhelming the room. With today’s vast and varied options, homeowners can choose from an endless range of textures, finishes, and styles to achieve the exact look and feel they want.
Pro Tip #3: Select Appropriately-Scaled Wallpaper
Scale plays a major role in how wallpaper transforms a room. Larger patterns tend to feel more dramatic and appear visually closer, while smaller, tighter patterns can create the illusion of a more open or expansive space.
The best scale depends on the room’s size, features, and the mood you want to create. There is no one-size-fits-all rule. While small-scale patterns often work beautifully in compact spaces, bold large-scale designs can be stunning when used intentionally in the right environment.
Elevating Your Space with Wallpaper
As design professionals, our role is to create a balanced and intentional composition that reflects each client’s unique style while enhancing the space. Through our custom interior design service, we approach wallpaper as a form of art – something that elevates, compliments and adds personality to the space without overpowering the overall design.
If wallpaper piques your interest, but you don’t know where to start, you’re in the right place! Contact us today for a stunning home tomorrow.
Seasonal styling keeps a home feeling fresh, relevant, and aligned with the rhythms of everyday life, helping your space reflect the energy and mood of each time of year.
From cozy throws and warm lighting in winter to light linens and fresh greenery in spring, simple swaps can make a big impact without overhauling your entire decor.
Tip #1: Intentional Decor Swaps
Focus on intentional, high-impact changes like swapping out throw pillows and blankets with textures and colors that reflect the season–think cozy knits, faux fur, and rich tones for winter; earthy hues and layered textures for fall; breezy linens and soft neutrals or pastels for spring and summer.
Also, rotate tabletop decor and bring in natural elements like pinecones and branches in winter or fresh greenery in spring. Even swapping out small-scale art to reflect the feel of the time of year can make a difference.
These simple yet deliberate changes keep the home feeling current, comfortable, and connected to the world outside.
Tip #2: Seasonal Porch & Entryway Updates
The porch and entryway set the tone for the entire home, making it essential that they reflect the season with intention and warmth. Seasonal touches like wreaths and layered doormats are go-tos.
Consider adding lanterns or hurricanes filled with small pumpkins or pinecones to create an immediate sense of welcome. A thoughtfully styled entry signals that the rest of the home is just as inviting and in tune with the season.
Tip #3: Scents That Define the Season
Design should engage all the senses, not just the visual. Scent, in particular, plays a powerful role in creating atmosphere and evoking seasonal feelings.
Incorporating candles, essential oils, or diffusers with notes like pine and cinnamon in winter or citrus and fresh herbs in summer adds a subtle but impactful layer to a space. These sensory details help complete the experience of a home, making it feel more immersive, intentional, and alive.
Pro Tip: Simmer pots are a fun, easy, and interactive way to create your own scents to flow with the seasons!
Seasonal styling includes thoughtful decor swaps, sensory elements, and curated touches that reflect the beauty and energy of the season–like layered textures, natural accents, and cozy ambiance for the colder months ahead.
Key Takeaways: Simple Seasonal Home Styling
Refresh Your Space Year-Round: Seasonal home styling keeps your décor feeling current and connected to the changing seasons—without needing a full redesign.
Focus on Intentional Updates: Swap out textiles, décor, and natural accents like pinecones, greenery, or light linens to reflect the mood of each season.
Create a Welcoming Entryway: A styled porch or entryway with wreaths, lanterns, or layered doormats sets the tone for the rest of your home.
Engage the Senses: Incorporate candles, diffusers, or simmer pots with seasonal scents like pine, cinnamon, citrus, or herbs to create a warm, immersive atmosphere.
To get started, reach out to schedule a consultation and bring a fresh, seasonal perspective to your space.
Warmly, Christ
Meet the Designer
Mickler & Co. is a full-service interior design studio based in Wilmington, NC, led by Principal Designer Rebecca Mickler and Designer Christa Mitchell.
With over 20 years of experience in architectural design, staging, and interiors, Rebecca and her team create spaces that are both functional and beautiful, tailored to reflect each client’s unique lifestyle and vision.
How to Make Your Home Feel Like a Luxury Hotel (Designer Tips You Can Steal)
What makes a hotel feel luxurious isn’t just the grand entrance. It’s the crisp linens, inviting textures, curated details, and the sense that every element was chosen for comfort and indulgence.
Below, we’re sharing three designer-approved ways to bring that same feeling of relaxation, energy, and bliss into your own home—without a full renovation.
Save this for later:Luxury lives in the details.
Tip #1: Create an Ambient Grand Entrance That Sets the Tone
To create a grand entrance that instantly wows guests, focus on ambiance through thoughtful layering of design elements:
A statement light fixture to create a warm glow and instant “wow.”
A well-styled entry table with a tray, a vase, and a scent moment (candle or diffuser).
Artwork to add personality or a mirror to add depth and bounce light.
Keep your look cohesive with a simple color palette and a few elegant textures (think woven, wood, brass, marble). If your layout allows, add inviting seating nearby—even a small bench—so the space feels both impressive and welcoming.
Quick designer check: If your entry feels cluttered, edit it down until it feels intentional.
Tip #2: Create Spaces That Pamper and Soothe
Luxury hotels design for rest. At home, we do the same—especially in the bedroom and bath.
In the Bedroom
To create a truly pampering bedroom, focus on these elevated essentials:
Crisp, high-quality linens (layered: sheets + duvet + coverlet) for that “fresh hotel” feel.
Layered lighting (overhead + bedside + soft accent lighting) for a warm, relaxing glow.
A soothing color palette that ties everything together—soft neutrals, calming tones, and subtle contrast.
In the Bathroom
Spa-like comfort comes through with elegant finishes and thoughtfully styled accessories—transforming everyday routines into small moments of indulgence:
Fluffy, uniform towels (white or neutral) displayed neatly.
A curated “bath tray” moment with soap, lotion, and a small vase/greenery.
Soft lighting (warm bulbs) and a subtle signature scent.
Tip #3: Layer with Textures, Textiles, and Feeling
High-end spaces are never flat. We layer each hotel-inspired room with lush textiles that instantly elevate the experience:
Soft velvet throws and plush pillows for comfort.
Rich linen upholstery for an elevated, tailored look.
Flowy drapes that add depth, softness, and that “finished” feeling.
These elements bring texture and sophistication while evoking the warmth and care of ultimate hospitality. Use color and pattern intentionally to influence mood—whether you want calm and serene or bold and energizing.
Design Hotel-Inspired Interiors That Still Feel Like You
We bring the feeling of luxury hospitality into clients’ everyday lives by designing spaces that blend elegance with comfort. Each project begins with how our clients live, relax, and recharge—so every detail looks beautiful and functions seamlessly.
From a spa-like ensuite to a restful bedroom or welcoming entry, the goal is the same: make everyday moments feel indulgent.
Key Takeaways for Designing Hotel-Inspired Interiors
A grand entrance with layered lighting, statement décor, and elegant textures sets the tone for a hotel-inspired home.
Crisp linens, soothing color palettes, and thoughtfully styled accessories transform everyday routines into indulgent experiences.
Velvet throws, linen upholstery, and flowing drapery bring sophistication and warmth—echoing five-star hospitality.
Use color and pattern intentionally to create serene retreats or energizing spaces tailored to your lifestyle.
Want Your Home to Feel Like a Five-Star Hotel?
We can help. Mickler & Co. designs elevated, livable interiors that feel calm, curated, and effortlessly luxurious—tailored to how you live (or host).
Imagine a cramped kitchen with barely any counter space, cluttered drawers, poor lighting, and appliances awkwardly crammed into tight corners. If cooking feels like a chore and finding utensils is a daily treasure hunt, it’s time to rethink your space.
Keep reading for design tips that will transform the relationship you have with your kitchen…
Feature #1: A Functional Layout
A well-planned kitchen layout creates effortless movement between the 3 key work zones–the sink, fridge, and stove. It’s also important to consider how the kitchen connects to adjacent living or dining areas, allowing for better entertaining and family interaction. Aligning the layout with how you actually use the space day-to-day will make everyday tasks smoother and more enjoyable.
Feature #2: A Hard-Working Kitchen Island
A large kitchen island with built-ins can become the true hub of the home, offering extra prep space, casual seating, and smart storage all in one central spot. Depending on your lifestyle, you can customize the island with deep drawers, open shelving for cookbooks, a prep sink, built-in cooktop, or even a wine fridge for easy entertaining. Prioritize features that support how you cook and gather.
Feature #3: Lighting That Sets the Mood
Layered lighting transforms a kitchen from purely functional to warm and welcoming by combining multiple light sources that serve different purposes. The three layers–ambient (general), task (focused), and accent (decorative)–work best.
Bright, focused task lighting over prep and cooking areas, soft accent lights to highlight architectural features or open shelves, and pendants or a chandelier for general lighting complete the look.
Optimize your kitchen layout by creating smooth flow between the sink, stove, and refrigerator—the three main work zones.
Add a multifunctional kitchen island with built-in storage, seating, or specialty features like a prep sink or wine fridge to maximize both style and efficiency.
Incorporate layered lighting (ambient, task, and accent) to ensure your kitchen is both functional and welcoming, day and night.
Personalize your kitchen remodel to match how you cook, entertain, and live every day.
A thoughtfully designed kitchen reduces stress, boosts efficiency, and becomes the true heart of your home.
With a thoughtfully designed layout, a multifunctional island, and layered lighting, your kitchen transforms into a harmonious space. Cooking flows effortlessly, entertaining feels natural, and every moment is more joyful. The result? Less stress, more efficiency, and a stunning heart of the home that truly reflects your lifestyle and personality.
If you’re ready for an expert to bring function and beauty to your kitchen, we’ve got your back! Contact us and let’s get to know each other.
Until next time, Christa
Meet the Designer
Mickler & Co. is a full-service interior design studio based in Wilmington, NC, led by Principal Designer Rebecca Mickler and Designer Christa Mitchell.
With over 20 years of experience in architectural design, staging, and interiors, Rebecca and her team create spaces that are both functional and beautiful, tailored to reflect each client’s unique lifestyle and vision.
Window treatments are easy to overlook because, when they’re done correctly, they quietly elevate a space without calling attention to themselves. But when they’re not thoughtfully selected or installed, they can disrupt the proportions, balance, and overall polish of an otherwise beautiful room. Below, we’re sharing four common window treatment mistakes designers notice immediately — and how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Mounting Treatments Too Low or Too Narrow
Mounting window treatments too low or too narrowly can visually shrink a space. Ceilings feel shorter, windows appear undersized, and the room can take on a cramped or unfinished look.
To avoid this, curtains should always be hung high and wide. Allow approximately 10–12 inches on either side of the window frame so panels can stack back properly when open. Mounting the rod as close to the ceiling as possible creates the illusion of taller ceilings and a more expansive room.
Mistake #2: Choosing the Wrong Curtain Length
Curtains that are too short can feel abrupt and unfinished, while overly long panels may puddle awkwardly on the floor. Much like tailoring clothing, window treatments require precise measurements to achieve a polished result.
Always measure from the rod placement to just a few inches above the floor, accounting for hardware details such as ring or grommet height. These small adjustments make a significant difference in the final look.
Mistake #3: Using Too Little Material
One of the most common mistakes we see is not using enough fabric. Curtains that barely cover the window tend to sit flat, lacking softness and dimension.
For a full, luxurious drape — whether panels are open or closed — plan for curtains that measure 2 to 2.5 times the width of the window. This ensures movement, depth, and a tailored appearance.
Pro Tip: Place one curtain ring or grommet on the outside of the bracket to help panels stay in place and maintain clean lines.
Designing a home at this level requires more than good taste.
If you’re planning a full-service interior design project in Wilmington or the surrounding coastal area, our team creates refined, livable interiors tailored to how you live — not one-size-fits-all solutions.
Beyond aesthetics, window treatments should support how you live in your home. Consider what each space truly needs — whether that’s blackout lining for privacy, motorization for tall or hard-to-reach windows, or light-filtering options for sun-facing rooms.
Layering treatments is often the most effective solution. Sheers paired with blackout panels allow flexibility throughout the day, while roller or woven shades introduce natural texture alongside practical benefits.
Say Hello To Mickler & Co. Welcome to the Mickler & Co. Design Studio blog, your go-to source for expert interior design, home staging & rental design tips, the latest trends, and creative inspiration to transform your home into a personalized haven.
Visit us at 2007 Dawson St., Wilmington, NC 28403, or shop our online store for inspiration! https://shop.micklerco.com/
