5 Elements Every Well-Designed Room Needs

Designing a beautiful space isn’t just about filling it with beautiful furniture pieces—it’s about creating a room that feels intentional, inviting, and uniquely you. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refreshing a space that needs some love, there are a few key elements we always make sure to include in every well-designed room.

Here are my top five:

1. A Focal Point
Every room needs a star of the show—a moment that naturally draws the eye and anchors the space. This could be a fireplace, a bold piece of art, a dramatic light fixture, or even a gorgeous view. The key is to create a visual “why” behind the room’s layout. Once that focal point is established, the rest of the space can fall into rhythm around it.

Photography Credit: Megan Lorenz

2. Architectural Details
Great design highlights the bones of a room—or adds them when they’re missing. Think crown molding, ceiling beams, built-in shelving, or custom paneling. Even something as simple as a beautiful archway or thoughtfully designed trim can add a layer of polish that makes the space feel more elevated. These details ground the design and give the room a sense of permanence.

Photography Credit: Karen Palmer

3. Texture, Texture, Texture

This one is non-negotiable. Texture is what keeps a space from feeling flat or one-dimensional. We love to mix materials—linen, velvet, leather, woven materials, warm woods, cool metals—to create visual interest and a tactile, cozy feel. Whether it’s a chunky knit throw or a stone coffee table, texture brings warmth and soul to a room.

Photography Credit: Megan Lorenz

4. Layered Lighting
Lighting can make or break a room. Instead of relying on a single overhead fixture, we like to think in layers: ambient (your general light), task (for reading, cooking, etc.), and accent (for mood and highlighting special pieces). A mix of pendants, sconces, floor lamps, and table lamps helps create depth and flexibility—and adds an undeniable glow that makes people want to linger.

5. A Personal Piece
The most memorable rooms always have something personal—a piece that tells a story. Maybe it’s a vintage rug from your travels, a sculptural piece you fell in love with, or an old family photo. It doesn’t have to be expensive or flashy—it just needs to feel like you. These pieces add soul and keep a room from looking like a catalog.

Photography Credit: Megan Lorenz

When all five of these elements come together, magic happens. The space feels balanced, layered, and lived-in—never overly styled or sterile. At the end of the day, a well-designed room should feel like a reflection of the people who live there. That’s always the goal. - Diane