How Your Home Can Shape Who You Are

There’s something magical about a well-designed space. It’s not just about the aesthetics - the bold wallpaper, the perfectly chosen accent chair, or the ideal shade of paint on the walls. It’s about the feeling that washes over you when you step into a room. It’s about how the design of a space mirrors who you are and sparks inspiration, creativity, and joy.

I recently had the privilege of sitting down with Philadelphia-based artist, Emily Ennulat, and hearing the story behind her latest wallpaper line. Emily shared how each design was intentionally named after women in her family that came before her. Women that had dreams as aspirations but didn’t have the opportunity to see those dreams come alive. Her creations aren’t just decoration; it’s part of the environment that shapes the way we feel, think, and live.

my visit to Emily Ennulat’s Chestnut Hill boutique

As I listened to Emily speak, I couldn’t help but think about a podcast I’d heard with author, artist, and poet Jackie Hill Perry. Jackie shared how she intentionally designs her home for hospitality - not just to create a welcoming environment for guests, but also to ensure it’s functional and nurturing for her family. Her home isn’t just beautiful; it’s a space designed to support the lives of those who live there, to foster connection, peace, and purpose. This resonated deeply with me because, at the heart of what I do as an interior designer, I believe that home design is so much more than just beauty. It’s a tool for living. It’s a way to create an environment where you can thrive.

Your Home as a Reflection of You

When you walk into your home, what does it say to you? Does it support the way you want to live? Does it make you feel energized, calm, or inspired? Or does it leave you feeling overwhelmed and disconnected? Your home is more than just four walls—it’s a reflection of your life, your values, and your dreams. And when it’s designed with intention, it has the power to elevate your experience and nurture the person you’re becoming.

Every time I work with a new client, I take the time to really understand their story. I want to know what they value, how they move through their space, and most importantly, how they want to feel in that space. I don’t believe in cookie-cutter designs. Every home should feel as unique as the person or family living there. Design should make you feel seen, understood, and inspired. It should lift you up and support you, creating an environment where you can thrive in all aspects of your life.

The Solution: Designing with Purpose

Designing with purpose is what sets my approach apart. It’s not just about selecting pretty things. It’s about weaving together a vision for your space that aligns with who you are and how you want to feel. Whether you’re seeking calm, inspiration, energy, or balance, I work with you to create a space that nourishes your soul and helps you live the life you aspire to.

If you’re ready to transform your space into a place that inspires you every day, I’d love to help.

My Design Clarity Call is the first step toward understanding your needs, your vision, and how we can bring your dream space to life.

If you're seeking inspiration and a chance to connect with like-minded individuals, I would love for you to join me for my 10 Year Anniversary Soirée on September 13th. This invitation-only event will be an evening of celebration, reflection, and design inspiration as we toast to the past, present, and future of Georgette Marise Interiors. If you’d like to be added to the guest list, please email us at info@georgettemarise.com.

Spaces are more than just backgrounds for our lives - they have the power to shape our experience. Let’s create a home that truly inspires you.

RSVP for the Soirée and Book Your Design Clarity Call Today!

Why Intention Matters More Than Trends in Interior Design

We are surrounded by noise when it comes to designing our homes.
Interior design for homeowners often feels like a tug-of-war. There are do’s and don’ts, trends that change with the seasons, and endless reels showing how to “design on a dime” or “live luxuriously.” One moment we’re told to be minimal; the next, to layer boldly. And if you’ve ever felt stuck in between all the advice and aesthetics, wondering what actually works—you’re not alone.

The truth is: great design isn’t about going it “right”. It’s about creating a home that reflects you.

It’s Not About Sides. It’s About You.

Trends aren’t wrong. Budgets aren’t wrong. Luxury isn’t wrong either.
But the key to a home you’ll love comes down to something deeper: intention.

As someone who practices intentional interior design, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is when your space is tailored to your needs, your lifestyle, and your energy.
The finishes, the colors, the layout—it’s not about impressing anyone. It’s about how it makes you feel.

Because when a space works for you, you feel it.
It flows. It supports. It inspires.
It feels like home.

Why Your Home Might Feel "Off"

Even beautifully furnished homes can feel incomplete.
That’s usually because they were built to follow trends—not to serve a purpose.

In personalized home design, every detail is chosen to create a specific experience.
So if you walk into a room and something feels off, it may not be the wrong color or furniture—it may be that the room wasn’t designed with intention.

Here’s a simple design truth:
When something “looks done,” it’s not just because it’s stylish. It’s because every piece in the space is working toward an intended feeling.

That’s what makes multifunctional spaces feel calm, seamless, and livable.

Interior Design: Georgette Marise Interiors

Completion is the Real Transformation

There’s something sacred about a space that’s finished.
Not “still figuring it out.” Not “good enough for now.”
Completed. Designed. Lived in. Loved.

When a room is completed with purpose, the shift is emotional.
You stop “making it work” and start feeling supported. At peace. Grounded.
That’s the real goal of interior design for women and busy homeowners—not just pretty, but personal.

So let me ask you:

• Does your home feel complete or half-finished?

• Do your rooms support your lifestyle?

• Are you still adjusting... or are you thriving in your space?

Because completion is what creates the feeling most people crave—ease, peace, joy.
It’s the emotional exhale that happens when a room is designed with your unique story in mind.

Interior Design: Georgette Marise Interiors

Ask yourself:

• Does my home feel complete—or always in progress?

• Do I feel settled, or am I constantly rearranging, fixing, or “making it work”?

• Have I created a space that feels like home, or just something that looks nice?

Take This With You

Here are a few gentle journal prompts to reflect on after reading:

• What’s one space in my home that I love—and why?

• What’s one space that drains me—and what’s missing?

• What emotion do I want to feel more of in my home?

• What needs to be completed in my space to support that feeling?

This kind of reflection can be just as important as choosing paint colors or floor plans. When you understand how you want to feel in your home, you can begin to design with clarity.

You Don’t Have to Figure It Out Alone

If this stirred something in you—if you’re nodding, or even just feeling that tug to finally bring your space to life with intention—I’d love to support you.

Let’s have a 20-minute Design Clarity Call.
No pressure. Just you and me, talking through what’s working, what’s not, and what’s possible.

Because your home isn’t just a backdrop—it’s part of your story.
Let’s design it with that in mind.

Can Your Home Reflect Both of You? Yes—Here’s How

Over the past few weeks, we’ve been diving into what it really means to create a home that feels like you—a place of comfort, beauty, and function.

But what if that home isn’t yours alone?
What if you’re sharing it with someone you love… and your styles don’t exactly line up?

It’s a question I hear all the time from couples:

“Can our home truly reflect both of us?”

The answer?
Absolutely. And believe it or not, decorating as a couple can be one of the most rewarding parts of creating a home together.

Sure, there might be a few (or a lot of!) debates along the way—whether it’s about the “right” coffee table or whose art goes on the wall—but with a little creativity, you can create a home that feels beautifully balanced.

Here’s how.

1. Mix, Don’t Match. One of the biggest mistakes I see couples make is thinking their styles have to “match.” But here’s the truth: contrast creates interest.

▻ She loves vintage charm, he’s into clean, modern lines?
Pair a plush velvet sofa with a sleek glass coffee table. Add a statement light fixture that bridges both styles.

▻ He’s passionate about his record collection, she has shelves of books?
Design a media wall that proudly displays both.

Design Tip: When decorating a shared home, look for common threads—a shared love of natural wood, a mutual appreciation for navy tones—and weave those elements throughout your space to keep things cohesive.

2. Create Personal Zones. Even in the most beautifully blended spaces, it’s healthy (and fun!) to carve out a little spot that’s uniquely yours.

▻ Got a sunny nook in the living room?
Add a comfy reading chair with her favorite throw and side table.

▻ Have an unused corner?
Create a mini music station with his record player and guitar.

These personal zones give each partner a sense of ownership and expression—an essential part of successful interior design for couples.

3. Color as a Unifier. Color can be a surprisingly emotional sticking point. My advice? Use it to your advantage.

• Start with a neutral base you both like (think soft gray, creamy white, or warm taupe).

• Then, allow each of you to bring in one or two accent colors.

• Tie everything together with patterns—pillows, rugs, artwork—that include those shades.

couple’s Design Interior mood board

For example: Warm white walls + deep navy (his choice) + muted blush (hers) = a stylish, inviting space that feels balanced and intentional.

Couple’s Designed Home

4. Design for Your Lifestyle. Great design isn’t just about how a space looks—it’s about how it works.

Ask yourselves:
“How do we really live in this home?”

▻ Love entertaining? Choose flexible seating and an extendable dining table.
▻ Netflix nights your thing? Invest in the most comfortable sectional you can find.
▻ Work from home? Set up a dedicated workspace that keeps work and relaxation separate.

When your home supports your lifestyle, it becomes a true sanctuary for both of you.

5. Tell Your Story. This is where your home really comes to life. Don’t be afraid to make it personal:

• Frame photos from trips you’ve taken together.

• Display heirlooms from both families.

• Hang that quirky art piece you picked up on your first vacation.

The goal? A home that tells the story of you—individually and together.

A Final Word

Yes, designing a shared home can bring challenges—but it also offers an incredible opportunity to create something brand new, something that beautifully reflects the life you’re building together.

If you’re navigating the ups and downs of blending styles (or are about to move in with your partner), remember:
It’s not about perfection. It’s about connection.

And I’m here to help you every step of the way.

Have you ever had to blend styles with a partner? What worked—and what didn’t? Leave a comment below—I’d love to hear your story!

And don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more design tips, behind-the-scenes stories, and exclusive workshop invites.

How to Design a Shared Home That Reflects You Both

Over the past few weeks, we’ve been discussing what it means to make a house feel like home—how space planning, intentional design, and thoughtful touches can turn even the most ordinary rooms into sanctuaries of comfort and calm.

But what happens when that home isn’t yours alone?

What if the space you’re trying to make your own is shared with a loved one, but you don’t always agree with them?

This is something I see all the time as a designer—couples trying to merge not just their furniture and decor, but their lives, preferences, and histories into one space. And while love may bring people under the same roof, it’s not always easy to make that roof feel like home for both people.

I still remember one client’s quiet words as she stood in the middle of the living room she now shared with her new husband:

“It just doesn’t feel like me anymore.”
And yet, he felt the same.

The truth is, design is emotional. Our spaces reflect more than style—they reflect identity, comfort, control, and compromise. And when couples move in together, whether into a brand-new home or one person’s existing space, those layers often get tested.

The Invisible Weight of an Unbalanced Space

When someone feels like a guest in their own home, even if they love the person they live with, it starts to chip away at the connection.

Maybe she moved into his place and, surrounded by dark leather and sports memorabilia, quietly started to feel like a guest in a home that didn’t reflect her at all.
Maybe he brought his favorite chair, and it’s now tucked away in a corner like an afterthought.
Maybe they’re both trying to build something new, but keep clashing over where to start.

It might seem like it’s “just a couch” or “just a lamp,” but those choices hold weight. They quietly ask, Is there room for me here? Am I seen? Do I belong?

Encouragingly, a survey by ApartmentAdvisor found that 56% of couples reported that living together has strengthened their commitment to their partner, highlighting the potential for shared spaces to enhance relationships when approached thoughtfully. apartmentadvisor.com

So, How Do You Create a Home That Feels Like Both of You?

The answer lies not in compromise alone, but in co-creation. Here are a few of my favorite ways to help couples design a space that celebrates who they are, together:

1. Design a “Neutral Zone” Room Together. Choose a room that feels like a blank slate—maybe a guest room, office, or unused corner. Make this the first space you design as a team. Co-creating it from scratch removes the baggage and lets you build something new.

2. Create a Shared Vision Board. Set aside an evening for what I call a “Pinterest + Pinot” date. No judgment, just curiosity. Pin images, save ideas, and talk through what draws you in. You’ll likely find some surprising overlaps—and a few fun compromises.

3. Color Is Emotional—Choose It Together. Color influences mood. Try blending your tastes: pair bold hues with soft neutrals, or choose a calm backdrop and add individual expression through artwork and accessories. Let the color story be a conversation, not a confrontation.

4. Clear the Emotional Clutter. Decluttering isn't just physical—it's symbolic. Make space for each other by letting go of items that no longer reflect your shared future. Keep a few meaningful pieces from your past, but be intentional about what moves forward with you.

A Final Thought: Your Home Should Be a Reflection, Not a Battle

When both people feel emotionally safe and physically represented in the space, the home becomes a place of rest, creativity, and connection. And that’s the goal—not just a beautiful house, but a beautiful life lived together.

So, if you’re navigating the delicate dance of blending styles and creating shared space, know that there’s hope—and even beauty—in the process.

Have you ever experienced a design disagreement with your partner or had to blend two very different styles?

Drop a comment below—I read every one and would love to know how your journey is unfolding.

Space Planning: The Missing Piece in Your Home Design

You bought the furniture pieces.
You picked the paint.
You even tried that viral Pinterest layout.

But something still feels off.
Every time you walk into that room — your living room, your office, your bedroom — it feels more like a source of frustration than peace.
You sigh. You move the chair. You push the sofa. Again.
And yet… it’s still not working.

And underneath all of that?
A quiet frustration that sounds something like this:

“This room is just difficult.”
“There’s only one way to place the furniture because of the shape… the windows… the layout.”
“Maybe this space just isn’t meant to work how I want it to.”

But the truth is, there’s always more than one way to make a room feel functional and beautiful — it just takes the right approach and a fresh perspective. That’s where space planning comes in.

So many of the women I design for come to me feeling defeated by their own spaces.
They’ve spent money on beautiful furniture... but the room still feels disconnected.
They’ve rearranged everything more times than they can count... but nothing flows.
They’re trying to use one room for three different purposes... and it’s just not working.

And underneath all of that?
A deeper feeling most people don’t say out loud:

“Why can’t I figure this out?”

Space Planning is just one skill that designers use every single time we begin a project.

To Get our Coastal Calm Collection Color Palette Click Here

So... What Exactly Is Space Planning?

It’s the thoughtful art of arranging your furniture and elements in a way that supports your lifestyle, flows with your routines, and creates emotional ease in your home.
It’s not about symmetry or filling up corners.
It’s about purposeful placement — so your space actually works for you.

Now, let’s talk about what many homeowners try (and maybe you’ve done it too — no shame here!):

• You cut out paper shapes to “map out” your furniture on the floor.

• You trace your pieces on the rug with painter’s tape.

• You hop onto free online layout tools and drag furniture icons around.

It feels productive — and it’s a great first step — but without a true understanding of scale and proportion, those methods often fall short.

That’s the problem:
You might be placing things based on measurements…
but not based on how they’ll feel, flow, and function in real life.

Designers are trained to look beyond the obvious and consider how pieces interact in a space — not just how they fit.
Without that eye for proportion, even a “technically correct” layout can still feel… wrong.

This Is Why I Created the Virtual Design Group Workshop

I know the emotional toll of living in a space that just doesn’t fit.
And I also know that once you learn the principles of space planning, things start to shift.
You gain confidence. You stop second-guessing. You feel empowered to make your home work for you — not the other way around.

That’s why I created the Virtual Design Group Workshop — a 3-session design experience that walks you through transforming one room in your home with intention and clarity.

And to jumpstart your transformation, every workshop participant will receive my free eGuide: Mastering Space Planning Like an Interior Designer

Free space planning eguide when you register for design workshop

This powerful guide gives you the insider insight you need to start seeing your room differently — not just where things go, but why they go there.

If You’re Ready to Stop the Guessing Game…

…and finally feel at peace in your space…
…and design a room that actually supports your life…
…and stop wasting time (and money) on things that just don’t work...

Then this workshop was created for you.

We begin Wednesday, April 16th at 1:00 PM ET — and trust me, you don’t want to miss it.

[Click here to claim your seat + free eGuide]
Let’s plan your space — and your peace — together.

From Chaos to Comfort: Making Your New House Feel Like Home

The boxes are finally unpacked. The moving trucks are gone. The echoes of an empty house have faded, replaced by the sounds of everyday life.

But something still doesn’t feel quite right.

Your new house is filled with familiar pieces—your old sofa, your dining table, the same rugs and decor—but instead of feeling like home, it feels… disconnected.

The furniture that worked perfectly in your last home suddenly feels awkward. The walls are bare. The space doesn’t quite flow the way you imagined.

You keep rearranging, swapping things in and out, but nothing seems to click.

Sound familiar? This is the moment when frustration sets in.

But here’s the good news: You’re closer to feeling at home than you think.

The Shift from “Just Moved In” to “Finally Feels Like Home”

Decorating after a move isn’t just about filling a space with things. It’s about creating a feeling.

If you read my last post, Feeling Stuck? How to Finally Start Decorating Your Home with Confidence, we talked about overcoming the fear of making design mistakes and finding your starting point.

Now, it’s time to move from indecision to transformation.

Let’s walk through how you can take your space from unfinished to effortlessly yours.

Step 1: Reimagine Your Old Furniture in a New Way

It’s tempting to place everything exactly how it was in your old home—but that doesn’t always work in a new space.

Instead, think about your furniture with fresh eyes.

That sectional that fit perfectly in your last living room? Maybe it works better as two separate pieces now.
That dining table that once felt too big? Try adding a banquette or using a bench on one side for a more open feel.
That statement chair you loved? Maybe it deserves a new home in your bedroom or entryway instead.

Your old furniture isn’t wrong—it just needs a new role.

Step 2: Layer in What’s Missing

Once you’ve placed your key pieces, your home might still feel a little off. That’s because the magic is in the details.

If your space feels cold or empty, add warmth with rugs, curtains, and textured throws.
If it feels disjointed, create flow with a consistent color palette across rooms.
If it lacks personality, bring in artwork, books, or decor that reflects you.

Small, intentional layers bridge the gap between “just moved in” and “finally home.”

Step 3: Design for How You Actually Live

Your new home is a fresh start. So, instead of defaulting to how you used your space before, ask yourself:

What do I need this home to do for me now?

Need a cozy retreat? Prioritize soft lighting, plush seating, and warm tones.
Working from home now? Make sure your office space is inspiring and functional.
Have more space than before? Create zones—reading nooks, an entertaining area, or a workout space.

When your home supports the way you actually live, it instantly feels more like home.

Your New Home Is a Blank Canvas—Let’s Paint Your Story

The key to making your new home feel like you isn’t about rushing to fill every empty space.

It’s about intentionally creating a home that fits your life today—with pieces you love, in a way that feels natural.

And if you’re ready for even more hands-on help to bring it all together…

Join My Virtual Design Group Workshop!

I’m launching a 6-week Virtual Design Group Workshop to help a small group of homeowners transform a single room in their home.

You’ll get:
• Three live sessions where we design your space together
• Step-by-step guidance to make your home feel connected
• Personalized feedback so you can make confident design choices

Want first access when doors open? Join the waitlist now! Your new home is so close to feeling like yours. Let’s make it happen—together.

Feeling Stuck? How to Finally Start Decorating Your Home with Confidence

You finally have a place to call home. Maybe it’s your first apartment, a new house, or just a fresh start. You’re ready to make it yours—a space that feels comfortable, stylish, and uniquely you.

But instead of excitement, you feel something else creeping in…

Overwhelm.

You stand in the middle of the empty room, staring at the blank walls and mismatched furniture, asking yourself:

• Where do I even begin?

• What if I pick the wrong colors?

• What if my space never comes together the way I imagined?

So, you wait.

You scroll through Pinterest, save dozens of TikToks, and keep telling yourself that someday you’ll figure it out. But weeks—maybe even months—go by, and your home still feels incomplete.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

Why Decorating Feels So Hard

The truth is, designing a home isn’t just about picking paint colors or arranging furniture. It’s about creating a feeling.

Most people get stuck because they’re afraid of making the wrong choice. They don’t want to waste money on furniture they’ll regret. They don’t want to commit to a color that feels too bold. So, they freeze.

But here’s what I want you to know: Your home doesn’t have to be perfect to feel like home.

And the best part? You don’t need to have it all figured out to start.

The Simple First Step to Transforming Your Home

Instead of trying to plan every detail at once, take a step back and ask yourself:

How do I want my home to feel?

• Cozy and warm?

• Bright and airy?

• Bold and energetic?

Cozy and warm

bright and airy

bold and energetic

Once you define the feeling, everything else becomes easier.

Now, instead of trying to decorate your entire home at once, start with just one decision.

Maybe it’s…
A statement piece—like a caramel-colored sofa that makes your space feel inviting.
A paint color—a calming sage green or a bold navy blue that sets the mood.
Lighting and texture—adding warm lamps, plush rugs, or textured curtains to bring depth.

One choice will lead to the next. And before you know it, your space will start feeling intentional, welcoming, and uniquely yours.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

If you’ve been struggling with where to start, I have something special for you.

I’ve created a Virtual Design Group Workshop designed specifically for women who want a beautiful home but feel overwhelmed by the process.

This 6-week workshop will walk you through every step of designing one room in your home—from choosing colors and furniture to creating a space that truly reflects you.

Want first access when enrollment opens?

Join the waitlist today and be the first to know when doors open!

Your dream home is waiting. Let’s create it together.

Incorporating Culture Into Your Home

There is a beautiful movement happening right now. HillmanTok has ignited a collective desire among people of color to reconnect with Black history in art and design. Whether it’s appreciating art from Black countries across the world or proudly incorporating Black influence into design, the narrative is shifting. Unfortunately, this hasn’t always been the case. Now, we're embracing our stories in new ways—through our homes, our art, and the personal touches we bring to our spaces.

For me, incorporating my culture into my home is deeply personal. It’s not just about decorating—it’s about storytelling, honoring my heritage, and creating a space that speaks to my family's history and values. My gallery wall in our dining room is one of my most intentional design choices, each piece carefully selected to reflect our history, our faith, and our love for one another.

The Story Behind My Gallery Wall

When I envisioned my gallery wall, I knew I wanted a muted, monochromatic palette with neutral hues, but more importantly, I wanted it to reflect my roots. I started with the largest piece—a framed printed fabric from Mali. While it’s the least personal piece in my collection, I loved the aesthetic of it. I love the soft, hand-brushed geometric lines on the linen-textured fabric. Its presence anchors the entire wall, much like the foundation of my cultural heritage.

gallery wall in Dining Room

Next, I wanted to incorporate pieces from my late mother’s wall decor collection. My mother was a devoted Christian and always had one particular framed scripture hung on our wall growing up. Acts 4:12, has traveled with us from home to home—from New York to Boston to New Jersey. When she passed, I inherited it. The simple faded off-white print, framed in a worn red-tone stained wooden frame, holds profound sentimental value. I never truly appreciated it as I do now—it’s a reminder of my mother’s unwavering faith and presence in my life.

But this gallery wall isn’t just about my past—it’s about my entire family. My husband’s contribution comes in the form of a black-and-white silhouette of an old oak tree, reminiscent of the trees near his grandparents’ home. And for my children, I wanted to include something uniquely theirs. My daughter loves creating digital art, so I had her trace and sketch my grandparents’ farmhouse in Haiti on her iPad. I printed it in black and white and placed it in a warm wooden frame. Now, it’s a treasured part of our home.

Le Neg Marron (in Haitian Creole, Nèg Mawon) Photo taken during our travels to The Ogier-Fombrun Museum

One of the most powerful pieces on this wall is a silhouette of Le Neg Marron (in Haitian Creole, Nèg Mawon), a bronze statue of a runaway slave, shackles broken, machete in hand. This powerful symbol represents Haiti’s strength and resilience. In 1804, enslaved Haitians defeated Napoleon’s army, making Haiti the first and only nation founded by a successful slave revolution. At the time, 70% of the enslaved population had been born as free men and women in Africa. The world feared Haiti’s victory, and as a result, it was politically marginalized for centuries. Nèg Mawon stands as a beacon of that struggle—defiant, unafraid, blowing a conch to call others to freedom.

Above Nèg Mawon, I placed an old-world map of the Caribbean. Maybe it’s because both of my parents were born in the Caribbean, or maybe it’s my love for its rhythmic beats, vibrant cultures, and mouth-watering food—but the Caribbean holds a special place in my heart. I’ve visited many islands—Haiti, Barbados, The Bahamas, Puerto Rico, St. Croix—and I’m still not done exploring. I intentionally selected a map of the Caribbean before Haiti and the Dominican Republic became separate nations, showing the island of Hispaniola as a whole.

Designing a Space That Reflects You

Your culture and heritage can be expressed in so many ways, and it may look different for everyone. Maybe it's a gallery wall filled with meaningful pieces, a collection of photos from your travels, or souvenirs displayed specially. It could be a beautifully woven tapestry turned into artwork, an heirloom rug passed down through generations, or a personal library showcasing books that have shaped your worldview. Perhaps it's a specific color palette that evokes nostalgia, accent pillows with diverse prints and textures, or even a themed room that tells a unique story. The beauty of design is that it allows us to celebrate our identity in a deeply personal way.

A well-designed space is more than just aesthetically pleasing—it should evoke emotion, create comfort, and spark conversation.

Your home should tell your story. Every piece should reflect who you are, what you value, and the legacy you want to honor. A well-designed space is more than just aesthetically pleasing—it should evoke emotion, create comfort, and spark conversation.

If you’ve ever wanted to incorporate your heritage, faith, or personal history into your home design but weren’t sure where to start, I have a solution for you.

Join the waitlist for my Virtual Design Group Workshop—an intimate 6-week transformative experience with 3 guided virtual sessions where I work closely with a select group to help them bring personality and cultural depth into their homes. In this workshop, I'll guide you on placement, balance, and how to seamlessly blend your heritage into your design. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today!

7 Ways to Create a Relaxing Retreat at Home with Spa-Inspired Decor

spa styled vanity bowl

Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to indulge in a little self-care and create a spa-like retreat in your home. Whether celebrating with a partner or treating yourself, a well-designed home spa experience can bring relaxation and elegance into your space. Here are some easy decor-focused tips to transform your home into a tranquil oasis for a truly relaxing Valentine’s Day.

1. Set the Mood with Soft, Ambient Lighting

Lighting is essential in creating a spa-like atmosphere. Swap out harsh overhead lighting for warm, dimmable lamps or wall sconces. Arrange scented or flameless LED candles around your space to provide a soft, flickering glow that enhances relaxation. Consider adding Himalayan salt lamps for a warm, soothing ambiance.

2. Incorporate Natural Elements

Bringing in natural materials helps create a sense of peace and balance. Decorate with bamboo trays, woven baskets, and ceramic or stone accessories. Add a small indoor water fountain for a calming sound and visual appeal. Display fresh flowers or eucalyptus branches in vases to infuse your space with organic beauty.

indoor water fountain feature with wall sconces and faux stone

3. Choose a Serene Color Palette

Stick to a neutral, spa-inspired color scheme of soft cremes, beiges, light grays, and muted blues or greens. These tones help promote a sense of calm. If you want to introduce a romantic touch for Valentine’s Day, add touches of blush pink or warm terracotta accents through pillows, throws, or fresh flowers.

shop our curated color palettes

4. Create a Luxurious Bath or Shower Space

Transform your bathroom into a serene retreat by incorporating luxurious spa elements. A stunning grasscloth textured wallpaper adds warmth and texture, creating a natural and calming backdrop. In one of our bathroom projects, we incorporated a wood grain glass raised sink bowl paired with a bronze bamboo-shaped single-hole faucet to bring a refined yet organic touch to the space. Enhance the ambiance of your space with soft lighting, a sleek vanity tray for essentials, and a small vase of fresh flowers or eucalyptus to infuse a subtle, refreshing fragrance. Thoughtful details like rolled hand towels, artisanal soaps, and a scented candle can complete the spa-like experience, making every visit feel indulgent and relaxing.

spa-like bathroom with grasscloth wallpaper Interior Design: Georgette Marise Interiors

5. Style a Relaxing Lounge Area

Set up a cozy retreat area with a lounge chair or daybed draped with soft throws. Layer different textures in the room like velvet curtains, lush pillows, and faux fur throws for an inviting and luxurious feel. Add an étagère with candles, a small stack of books, framed photos, and a cup of herbal tea to complete the experience. For an even elevated look add wall sconces to use as accent lighting.

6. Bring in Calming Scents

Aromatherapy is a must for a spa aesthetic. Use reed diffusers, scented candles, or essential oil room sprays to fill your space with calming fragrances like lavender, bergamot, chamomile, or sandalwood. Choose stylish diffusers that blend seamlessly with your decor.

lux noir luxury scented candles

7. Elevate Your Space with Spa-Worthy Accessories

Think of the little details that make a spa feel luxurious. Add rolled towels in an open basket, display a collection of artisanal soaps, and place a decorative tray with skincare essentials on your vanity. A small bowl of rose petals or bath bombs adds a romantic touch while enhancing the aesthetic.

small bouquet of red roses arranged by Sabine

Make your home spa retreat a true escape by setting aside distractions. Put away your phone, turn on soothing background music, and immerse yourself in the relaxing environment you’ve created.

Transform Your Home with Thoughtful Decor

Creating a spa-inspired retreat at home is all about incorporating soft textures, soothing colors, and elegant accessories. Whether you’re planning a self-care night or a romantic Valentine’s celebration, these decor tips will help turn your home into a serene getaway.

Dear Home: An Interior Designer's Reflection on the Meaning of Home

Lately, I’ve been reflecting on the concept of home—what it truly means. With so much devastation happening across the country and the world, especially in the wake of natural disasters and personal tragedies, the idea of home feels more fragile and precious than ever. I’ve had clients who’ve experienced unimaginable loss—losing their homes to fires or floods. And when you hear these stories, it makes you pause and wonder: What really makes a home?

Is it the four walls? The beautifully designed spaces? The curated furniture and décor? Or is it something deeper, something that can’t be destroyed or replaced?

When a house is lost, it’s not just the physical things that are mourned—the paintings, furniture, and objects we once touched and used daily. It’s the memories, the small, everyday moments lived within those walls. It’s the way the light streamed through the kitchen window during breakfast. It’s the laughter that echoed during family movie nights. It’s the quiet peace of curling up on the sofa after a long day.

At its core, home isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling. It’s the heart and soul created by the people who live in it and the memories they make. It’s the joy, the comfort, and even the challenges that shape our everyday lives. This is why, when a home is lost, it feels so devastating—it’s not just about losing things; it’s about losing the place where life was lived and love was shared.

Interior Design: Georgette Marise Interiors

Design Board of Serene Getaways Beach Home

As an interior designer, my passion is to help people create spaces that reflect their lives—spaces that are functional, beautiful, and full of heart. Yes, a well-designed home can evoke emotions of peace and joy, but what truly makes it come alive is the life lived within it. A showroom may be perfectly arranged, but it isn’t a home until someone brings it to life through the rhythm of their daily moments—the messiness, the laughter, the warmth of human connection.

This reflection has reminded me of how much we all have to be grateful for. Life is unpredictable, and none of us knows what tomorrow will bring. But today, we have the opportunity to appreciate the homes we have—not because they’re perfect, but because they are ours.

I want to encourage all of us to savor the everyday moments that make our homes special. It’s not about having a picture-perfect space. It’s about creating memories, cherishing time with loved ones, and finding joy in the little things. Whether your home is filled with laughter or quiet moments of solitude, it’s those experiences that truly make a house a home.

So, take a moment to pause, look around, and feel gratitude for the life you’re building within your four walls. And if you ever find yourself overwhelmed by the idea of having the “perfect” home, remember: it’s not about perfection—it’s about heart. It’s about creating a space where love, laughter, and life can flourish.

And if you’re ready to create a home that brings out the best in you—a space where ease, comfort, and beauty come together—I can help. Whether it’s designing a multifunctional space that serves your family’s needs or adding thoughtful touches that evoke calm and joy, I’m here to guide you. Together, we can craft a home that feels like you—a place where your life, your heart, and your memories can thrive.

Because creating a home isn’t just about design—it’s about creating a life you love. Let’s talk.

Book your 15-minute Complimentary Design Call with me today >> CLICK HERE