In our last "Back to School" issue, we talked about the emotional journey of becoming an empty nester, and now we can shift our focus to the exciting, practical side of that transition: downsizing. This article from Architectural Digest is a perfect example of how to make a smaller bedroom feel expansive and highly functional. The key takeaway is to embrace smart, multi-purpose storage by using every inch of a room's vertical space, not just the floor plan. This means opting for furniture with built-in drawers, installing floor-to-ceiling cabinets, or incorporating clever solutions like floating shelves and storage benches. By using these tricks, we can create serene, organized, and beautiful bedrooms that are a perfect fit for our new, more streamlined lives, proving that a downsized home doesn't mean a downsized lifestyle.

The inspiring element in Michelle Dockery's London home is the expert blend of enduring design staples with a single, exciting current trend. The home's foundation rests on timeless principles: a cohesive and sophisticated color palette, the addition of character through upcycled and vintage finds, a commitment to high-quality craftsmanship (notably the custom millwork by the Syrian brothers), and the use of layered textures like leather and sisal to create a rich, inviting atmosphere. The space is then energized by embracing the current "unexpected red theory" which uses small, strategic pops of cherry red to introduce a bold contrast and personality. Ultimately, the project demonstrates that the most successful interiors are achieved through a thoughtful mixture of the timeless and the timely.

The New York Times featured the dramatic transformation of a 4,300-square-foot apartment in a 16th-century Antwerp castle by Axel Van Den Bossche, co-founder of Serax, and his wife, artist Marie Michielssen. Defying the suburban trend, the couple sought this city residence for its creative inspiration, space, light, and garden access. Their three-story, four-bedroom home achieves a striking balance between rich historical architecture and contemporary design. The interior beautifully reflects their artistic vision: it features bold choices like black marble-tiled floors, a dramatic black entrance hallway, and a curated collection of contemporary art. Living spaces are furnished with sculptural pieces, including Michielssen's "Pawn" stoneware stools, custom tables, and eclectic seating. The apartment also boasts a modern kitchen, an underground lap pool, and Michielssen's light-filled atelier, where she designs for Serax. This stunning space highlights three notable design trends: the fearless mixing of historical architecture with contemporary furnishings, demonstrating how centuries-old structures can be reimagined for modern living; the use of bold, statement pieces like sculptural furniture and vibrant accents to create visual interest within neutral spaces; and finally, the deeply personal approach to curation where the owners incorporate their own designs alongside carefully selected pieces from other artists, creating an authentic interior that tells their unique story.