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Back to School: 20 Darling Dorm Rooms

Written by Natalie Aldridge.

My dorm room was perched on the 26th floor of a Manhattan high rise. And that is where the glamour ended. While my view was dreamy and certainly provided me with a few pinch-me moments as an eighteen-year-old living on my own for the first time, the dorm room itself was an absurdly expensive concrete box with horrid lighting, bunk beds, and cold floors that would sweat in the summer humidity.

We had a strict policy of no upholstery and rugs, so any hope of quelling the surgical feel of the room with something plush was out the window. My black and white embroidered Restoration Hardware duvet that coordinated with my roommate’s was a point of pride. And, with limited wall space and a pack of poster tack, I tried my hardest to make my space a reflection of my style.

As the back-to-school season has come once again in full swing, my Tik-Tok feed (sorry, guilty pleasure) has been flooded with enthusiastic young ladies proudly showing off their completed dorm rooms that are nothing short of luxe. A favorite, Kaylyn Darnell of the University of Alabama, went viral last year for documenting her sorority rush experience and most notably her dorm room. With over two and a half million views, her bubbly personality and Chanel themed room struck a chord.

@kylan_darnell DORM TOUR #bama #bamarush #rush #bamarushtok ♬ Follow me – Denis✌️

This year Darnell took to TikTok once again to give a grand tour of her bedroom in the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority house. A culture wildly unfamiliar to me, I was blown away by the level of detail, sophistication, and pride. More so than ever before, dorm rooms have become a vibrant display of aesthetics. Follow the hashtags #DormRoom and #DormDecor, and you’ll step into a world of videos where students unveil their magical makeovers, turning once barren spaces into lively havens.

@kylan_darnell ZTA ROOM TOUR #bamarushtok #bamarushtok2023 #rush #bama #soroity #bamarush ♬ Life in the Dreamhouse (From the TV Series) – Barbie

And it doesn’t stop there. According to Town & Country, some students have taken to hiring interior designers to outfit their dorm rooms. Designers such as Mississippi-based After Five Designs and Essentials with Eden have garnered a substantial following with their dorm decorating services. With zeal and flair, they handle every aspect, starting from those initial exciting conversations, all the way through the hunt for perfect pieces, culminating in the exhilarating installations that breathe life into these student sanctuaries.

After Five Designs
After Five Designs
After Five Designs
@camsfaulkinglife DORM ROOM TOUR 2023!!! SO HAPPY At the University of Alabama ???????????????? #movingout #moving #moveinday #moveintogether #alabamatiktok #theuniversityofalabama #collegedorm #collegedormtour ♬ original sound – camryn faulkner

From upholstered headboards that cleverly fit over the wooden bed posts to peel-and-stick wallpaper and perfectly curated decor throughout, the dorms of today seem to be a far cry from what I experienced not too long ago. I have to say, I love it! The chance to express yourself and craft a sophisticated oasis even with the tiniest of canvases – it’s a recipe for nurturing a deep love for your space and embracing the art of living beautifully. There is nothing The Glam Pad celebrates more!

@bigballerbriggs official dorm tour???????? #mississippistate #dormroom #magnoliahall ♬ Dancing In The Moonlight – 苏颜悦

Whether you are headed back to school or are just in need of some inspiration, take a look at some of our favorite dorm rooms.

Essentials with Eden
Essentials with Eden
LeighDeux
Lindy Goodson
Essentials with Eden
Essentials with Eden
Dormify
After Five Designs
Dormify
UF Panhellenic Council
Scout Design Studio
Hannah Roberson
Lauren Bernard

For more dorm room decorating ideas, please follow our Darling Dorm Rooms board on Pinterest!

Shop our favorite dorm room finds!

Follow TGP on Instagram: @theglampad

Follow Natalie on Instagram: @natalieealdridge

Style Profile: Maggie Griffin Design

Maggie Griffin Design is a full service residential design studio based in Gainesville, Georgia known for modern Southern style with traditional sensibility. With a keen eye for detail, Maggie and her team design spaces that are freshly classic, and comfortable for everyday life. Their clientele spans across the Southeast featuring estate home new-builds to large renovations and beautiful interiors decorated with care.

Working with exceptional builders, skilled architects, proficient vendors, and talented tradesmen in the design community, Maggie Griffin Design creates homes designed to stand the test of time.

We are delighted to welcome Maggie to The Glam Pad today for a Style Profile Q&A and a peek inside her exquisite portfolio. Photography by Brian Bieder.

Welcome, Maggie!

Q:  Please tell us about your design firm, how you got started and what types of projects you manage?

A:  I get asked pretty often about when I got my start in design, and the answer is that I have been doing this my whole life! Growing up helping my mom, and my two grandmothers, it was so lovely to watch and see how they made their houses a “home.” My mom had a fancy Atlanta “decorator” who would make the two and a half hour drive south to spend time helping her place furniture, she would bring fabrics, and show me how to hang art. It was a wonderful introduction, and I love that I get to do that for so many wonderful clients now.


 

Q:  How do you define your style?

A:  My style is inherently very Southern. A warm, classic mix of old family pieces, colorful fabrics, and pretty prints. Nothing too precious but a great combination of old and new, with a love of entertaining and hospitality, always.

Q:  When did you first fall in love with beautiful homes and know you wanted to pursue design as a career?

A:  I have loved it my whole life! I had a playhouse in our yard growing up, and was constantly rearranging and setting up house. Same with my adored Barbie Dreamhouse and my beautiful Victorian dollhouse. By the time high school came around, I couldn’t wait to pursue this as a career.

Q:  What are some of the ways you go about making a house a home?

A:  Taking into consideration how a family operates; do they cook, do they order out mostly, do they have people over frequently, or are they homebodies? Really seeing how they live their life, and then infusing my inherent principles of symmetry, scale, and balance to create a space that reflects who they are.

Q:  What are the key ingredients of “Southern Style”?

A:  Pretty pieces that came from your grandmother, too many sets of china, and silver that’s been passed down. Comfy upholstery, pretty florals, a fair amount of buffalo check and gingham.

Q:  How do you design homes suited for entertaining, and personally, what are some of your favorite ways to entertain at home?

A:  I always think of flow. Where is the group entering from? How many do you need to fit around the table? Do we need a wet bar nearby? A coat closet at the front door? Really taking stock of how they like to entertain, and how many they’ll have over. When designing my personal home, I created spaces for large and small crowds to gather, indoors and out.

Q:  Where do you find inspiration?

A:  My favorite sources of inspiration are beautiful coffee table books, online home tours, monthly magazines, and travel.

Q:  If you could travel back in time, what period would you like to visit and why?

A:  I think I would’ve loved the Victorian era, when ornamentation was all the rage, both in homes and in fashion.

Q:  What are some of your favorite collaborations over the years, and do you have other exciting projects in the works? We love the one you did with Ballard Designs!

A:  It’s been so fun to be a part of the Ballard Designs family for so long! And to watch their business continue to grow. With the addition of my own product lines for Maggie Griffin At Home, it’s been such a labor of love.

Q:  When you aren’t busy designing, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?

A:  My family is everything to me! My nights home with my husband and our three boys are the best. I am happiest when I am with them, in my soft clothes, and we are cooking in the kitchen. I also spend a lot of time outdoors with them, and we enjoy being active as a family. Reading, doing flowers for my church, and volunteering at their school bring me joy, too.

 

Thank you, Maggie for joining us today! We love everything you do!

To learn more, please visit Maggie Griffin Design and follow @maggiegriffindesign on Instagram for ongoing inspiration. You can also click below to take a video tour of her cozy mountain retreat, located in Highlands, North Carolina built by architect Norman Askins…

The Maggie Griffin Design Team

The World of Stubbs & Wootton’s Percy Steinhart, Peony Paradise with Christopher Spitzmiller, and Dior at SCAD Atlanta

Welcome to TGP Tidbits where we round up the happenings and our musings of the design industry each week. This week we take a look at The World of Percy Steinhart, Peony Paradise with Christopher Spitzmiller, and Dior at SCAD Atlanta. Written by Natalie Aldridge.

The World of Percy Steinhart

There are collectors, and then there are true tastemakers. Percy Steinhart undoubtedly belonged to the latter camp. Today, STAIR unveils The World of Percy Steinhart: A Gentleman’s Life, an auction celebrating the founder of Stubbs & Wootton and the distinctly stylish world he created. The collection is every bit as charming, worldly, and thoughtfully curated as the man himself.

Photography by Adrienne Grunwald
Photography by Adrienne Grunwald
Photography by Adrienne Grunwald

Born in Havana, Percy cultivated an aesthetic that balanced sophistication with ease like no other. English antiques mingle effortlessly with modern pieces, Chinese ceramics, European paintings, and works by notable Latin American and Cuban artists, reflecting both his heritage and his discerning eye. In true Percy fashion, elegance never takes itself too seriously.

Photography by Adrienne Grunwald
Photography by Adrienne Grunwald
Photography by Adrienne Grunwald

Throughout the collection, one finds the same qualities that made Stubbs & Wootton so beloved: personality, craftsmanship, a sense of history, and just the right amount of whimsy and humor. It is the sort of sale that invites lingering over every page of the catalogue, giving a glimpse into Percy’s rarified world and the beautifully homes he inhabited.

Photography by STAIR
Photography by STAIR

For more information, please check out the auction here.

Peony Paradise with Christopher Spitzmiller

This weekend, celebrated designer and gardener Christopher Spitzmiller is opening his “Peony Field of Dreams,” inviting visitors to Orangerie Garden to experience the height of peony season and bring home freshly cut stems from his collection of more than 2,000 plants.

Christopher will be on hand to discuss the many varieties he has spent years cultivating, offering a rare opportunity to learn from someone whose love of flowers is nearly as legendary as his lamps. For those of us who eagerly await peony season each year, this feels a bit like a pilgrimage.

Corals, whites, pale pinks, and vivid magentas will be in bloom, creating what can only be described as peony paradise. The event takes place this Saturday from 10am to 1pm at Orangerie Garden in Pleasant Valley, New York, and we can think of few lovelier ways to spend a spring morning.

Dior at SCAD Atlanta

As lovers of design, we are often just as interested in the process as the finished product. Perhaps that is why Dior: Crafting Fashion at the SCAD museum in Atlanta, immediately caught our attention. Rather than simply displaying a range of beautiful dresses, the exhibition explores the creative world behind the House of Dior and all the details that go into making a garment.

Robe cocktail en taffetas noir. Christian Dior New-York Autumn Winter 1951 Copyright Collection Dior Heritage Paris’
Photos by Sungmin Kim Courtesy of Dior

From the first muslin mock-ups to the spectacular runway moments that follow, visitors are invited into the making of the Dior dream itself. More than 100 pieces are on view, including items never before exhibited publicly.

Photos by Sungmin Kim Courtesy of Dior
Photos by Sungmin Kim Courtesy of Dior

One detail we found particularly fascinating is that Christian Dior originally dreamed of becoming an architect. Suddenly, so much of the house’s enduring appeal makes sense. There has always been something deeply architectural about Dior. The structure, the precision, and the balance between discipline and romance are the very same qualities that make a beautiful building, only Dior transformed them into some of fashion’s most unforgettable dresses.

SCAD Atlanta – Spring 2026 – Exhibitions – “Dior: Crafting Fashion” – Teaser Documentation – SCAD Fash – Photography Courtesy of SCAD
SCAD Atlanta – Spring 2026 – Exhibitions – “Dior: Crafting Fashion” – Teaser Documentation – SCAD Fash – Photography Courtesy of SCAD

The exhibition also traces the history of the maison, from Christian Dior through the designers who followed in his footsteps, each bringing a distinct perspective. For those who appreciate craftsmanship, artistry, and a peek behind the curtain, this is exhibition worth adding to the itinerary.

Read our favorite articles of the week!

How to Make the Perfect “Bunny Bed,” According to Bunny Williams written by Kate Lickert for Veranda.

A Small But Mighty Flat in Chelsea Filled with Pattern, Colour and Fascinating Finds written by Emilio Pimentel-Reid for House & Garden.

Shop this week’s inspired finds!

x Natalie

Follow TGP on Instagram: @theglampad
Follow Natalie on Instagram: @natalieealdridge

 

A Timelessly Refreshed Historic Federal in Charleston

Betsy Berry, founder of B. Berry Interiors, believes in the power of story when designing a home. Every space she creates is both elegant and comfortable, with unique details that seamlessly blend the history of a property with clean, modern touches.

A native of the South Carolina Lowcountry, Berry grew up with a profound appreciation for historic architecture. Her love of aesthetic design led her to study fashion in Florence, Italy, but her ardor for historic preservation held strong. After studying at the New York School for Interior Design, she melded her passions for architecture and style, working under some of the world’s most renowned designers—including Sills Huniford and David Easton.

Photograph by Squire Fox

Under Berry’s meticulous eye, this stately Federal home in Charleston’s historic South of Broad neighborhood underwent a meticulous two-year transformation.

Working with E.E. Fava Architects and Wertimer + Cline Landscape Architects, the team transformed the 8,130-square-foot residence, blending timeless elegance with bold, personalized design.

Let’s take a peek inside!

Photograph by Squire Fox

In the entrance hall and sun porch, painted pine floors were artfully aged to evoke a sense of history.

Photograph by Squire Fox
Photograph by Brie Williams

The dining room features custom hand-painted Gracie wallpaper, a Branching Bubble chandelier by Lindsey Adelman, and a mix of antique and contemporary furnishings.

Photograph by Squire Fox
Photograph by Brie Williams
Photograph by Squire Fox
Photograph by Squire Fox
Photograph by Squire Fox
Photograph by Squire Fox
Photograph by Squire Fox
Photograph by Squire Fox
Photograph by Brie Williams
Photograph by Squire Fox
Photograph by Squire Fox
Photograph by Brie Williams

Walls in the living room were lacquered in a daring raspberry hue, paired with a 1950s Fontana Arte chandelier suspended from an ornate medallion.

Photograph by Squire Fox
Photograph by Squire Fox
Photograph by Squire Fox
Photograph by Squire Fox
Photograph by Squire Fox

Outside, a walled garden offers a serene retreat, completing the home’s harmonious balance of sophistication and charm.

Photograph by Squire Fox

This timeless Charleston home beautifully mixes the old with new, traditional with touch of whimsey. To see more, please visit B. Berry Interiors and follow @bberryinteriors on Instagram for ongoing inspiration. And if you are planning a visit to Charleston soon, make sure to check out A Designer’s Guide to Charleston compiled by Betsy Berry and Aldous Bertram.

Visual Comfort x Ralph Lauren Home, D. Porthault x Stubbs & Wootton, and WOW!house 2026

Welcome to TGP Tidbits where we round up the happenings and our musings of the design industry each week. This week we take a look at Visual Comfort x Ralph Lauren Home, D. Porthault x Stubbs & Wootton, and WOW!house 2026. Written by Natalie Aldridge.

Ralph Lauren x Visual Comfort

Few do classic Americana quite like Ralph Lauren Home, and the latest introductions for Visual Comfort & Co. are no exception. With new pieces including the Halpern, Irving, and Embers, the collection feels timeless in that distinctly Ralph Lauren way: polished yet relaxed, elegant yet entirely livable.

Ralph Lauren x Visual Comfort Photography by Dan Maslersen
Ralph Lauren x Visual Comfort Photography by Dan Maslersen
Ralph Lauren x Visual Comfort Photography by Dan Maslersen

What makes the launch especially fun, however, is the imagery itself. Set within richly layered Ralph Lauren-designed interiors, the rooms feel warm, collected, and deeply American in the most classic sense. There is a ease to the spaces that makes the lighting feel as though it has always belonged there. Something we always love at The Glam Pad!

Ralph Lauren x Visual Comfort Photography by Dan Maslersen
Ralph Lauren x Visual Comfort Photography by Dan Maslersen
Ralph Lauren x Visual Comfort Photography by Dan Maslersen

The collection already has us feeling inspired, and frankly, the imagery has us pining for an all-American summer out East filled with breezy mornings, wicker chairs, striped upholstery, and long evenings by the fire. Editorial, atmospheric, and endlessly timeless, it is everything we love about Ralph Lauren’s world.

Ralph Lauren x Visual Comfort Photography by Dan Maslersen
Ralph Lauren x Visual Comfort Photography by Dan Maslersen
Ralph Lauren x Visual Comfort Photography by Dan Maslersen

The collection is available here!

D. Porthault x Stubbs & Wootton

At The Glam Pad, we have long loved the world of D. Porthault Paris. For decades, the storied French house has embodied the sort of elegance we endlessly gravitate toward, with exquisite linens that feel steeped in beauty, tradition, and the art of living well. Naturally, we have featured the brand often over the years, so the latest collaboration with Stubbs & Wootton immediately caught our attention.

The new D. Porthault x Stubbs & Wootton collection brings Porthault’s beloved hearts, florals, and prints to Stubbs’ signature handcrafted slippers, resulting in a collection that feels equal parts French charm and Palm Beach polish. The collaboration feels especially natural, united by a shared appreciation for craftsmanship, timeless design, and those small luxuries that make everyday rituals feel beautiful.

While the entire collection is delightful, we are especially partial to the Coeurs slippers, which feel wonderfully cheerful and chic for summer. Inspired by D. Porthault’s iconic heart motif, the linen slippers are finished with embroidered hearts and strike a perfect balance between playful and polished.

The full collection is available here. We cannot wait to get our hands on a pair!

WOW!house 2026

If there is one event the design world waits for each summer, it is undoubtedly WOW!house at Design Centre Chelsea Harbour. Returning for its fifth year, the immersive London showhouse officially opens June 2nd and runs through July 2nd, once again transforming Chelsea Harbour into a dream for interiors lovers.

Sims Hilditch Courtyard Room by Emma Sims-Hilditch, WOW!house 2025
Sims Hilditch Courtyard Room by Emma Sims-Hilditch, WOW!house 2025

Featuring 22 full-scale rooms and outdoor spaces by an impressive roster of designers, WOW!house has quickly become one of the most inspiring events on the international design calendar. Part showhouse, part fantasy, the rooms always feel transportive, layered with beautiful craftsmanship, remarkable materials, and the sort of creative detail that reminds us why we love this industry so much in the first place.

Treasure House Fair Morning Room by Daniel Slowik, WOW!house 2025
Casa Branca Bedroom by Alessandra Branca, WOW!house 2025

And truly, if you are in London this June, it is a must-see. There is nothing quite like spending the afternoon wandering through Chelsea Harbour, moving room to room while mentally bookmarking fabrics, paint colors, lighting, and endless inspiration along the way. Frankly, it is the kind of event that leaves you wanting to redecorate your entire house and somehow relocate to London for the summer all at once. Tickets can be purchased here!

Lopen Joinery Kitchen by Ben Pentreath Studio, WOW!house 2025

Read our favorite articles of the week!

A Georgian Vicarage in Hackney That Feels Like the Prettiest of Country Houses written by Aimee Farrell for House & Garden.

Luxury and Whimsy Combine in This Kid-Friendly Kansas Home, Which Includes a Secret Playroom written by Meghan Shouse for House Beautiful.

Shop this week’s inspired finds!

x Natalie

Follow TGP on Instagram: @theglampad
Follow Natalie on Instagram: @natalieealdridge

A Charming “Year-Round” Summer Home in Maine

When Laura Keeler Pierce‘s clients visited Rusticator, her home furnishings shop in Seal Harbor, Maine, they felt an immediate alignment with the designer’s aesthetic. They were completing the design of their summer residence in the neighboring town, a project that ultimately lead to a second collaboration: their adjacent guest house. Yet what began as a guest home gradually evolved into their primary summer residence, a place where they now spend time throughout the year, having grown increasingly attached to it through the design process.

Located on Mount Desert Island, the vision was rooted in honoring traditional design while embracing the richness of its natural surroundings. The goal was to take a classic approach to color and pattern, then introduce a contemporary layer through thoughtful lighting and furnishings, creating a home that feels collected, timeless, and fresh. Working with the architect, Keeler & Co. designed a home that balances entertaining and retreat: an open plan for hosting, paired with quieter moments for reflection and a chance to peer out onto the expansive field of lupine and the harbor beyond.

Photography by Sean Litchfield

“It was equally important to the client to accommodate extended family, pets, and an active lifestyle,” said Laura. “This led us to incorporate livable, considered details. Examples include a tucked-away nook in the mudroom for their Jack Russell Terriers and classic elements such as cabinetry built into the eaves of the primary bedroom. This latter design choice nods to traditional Maine cottages, where every inch is charmingly put to use.”

The 3,000 square foot, newly constructed Maine cottage draws from the Shingle Style tradition, thoughtfully reinterpreted by architects SaltsmanBrenzel with a fresh, contemporary sensibility, while remaining true to the summer cottage roots of the town. The intention was for the home to feel deeply rooted in Maine, as though it had always belonged to the landscape. In collaboration with the architect, Keeler & Co. incorporated interior details and nuances that lend the home its character and the authenticity of an original Maine cottage.

“We appreciated the client’s desire to remain true to the traditional roots of Northeast Harbor while bringing a more contemporary, collected sensibility to the home,” said Laura. “The couple’s family has a long and meaningful history with the island, having historically spent summers there. Since completing the home, however, they’ve found equal joy in it through the winter months as well, becoming, in their own words, ‘year-round summer people,’ a sentiment that speaks to how seamlessly the home supports life across all seasons.”

In the kitchen, designed as the heart of the home for entertaining, classic cabinetry pairs with updated hurricane-style sconces by The Urban Electric Co., striking a balance between old and new. As part of an open-concept layout, the kitchen flows seamlessly into the living room, where a striking artwork, Pearlescent Waves by Gracie, serves as both a focal point and a discreet cover for the television.

This project is layered with custom touches that reflect the family’s lifestyle in a personal and thoughtful way. The tucked-away dog “condos” are outfitted with custom beds in a Lisa Fine textile.

On the first floor, the powder room offers a more playful moment, featuring a green, patterned wallpaper by Galbraith & Paul, complemented by crisp white sconces with charming, quilted glass and a marble vanity…a space that feels both fresh and timeless.

Upstairs, the second-floor bathroom plays with juxtaposition, pairing nostalgic café curtains with a richly glazed green tile, creating a space that feels both familiar and fresh. In the bedroom hallway, the laundry is discreetly integrated into the eaves and concealed behind a striped green curtain, blending function seamlessly into the design. The client also brought an exceptional eye to the project, curating the shelving throughout the home herself, which added a final, personal layer that makes the space feel truly complete.

“The client had been especially excited about a specific tile for the second-floor bathroom, but ongoing supply chain challenges made it difficult to source in time for installation,” Laura shared. “Through a combination of persistence and good fortune, the couple ultimately discovered the perfect green tile themselves, turning what could have been a setback into a meaningful, collaborative moment between the client and the design team.”

“Working with this family is a true pleasure,” said Laura. “They bring a strong sense of place, shaped by their long history on the island, along with a willingness to thoughtfully push the design. The result is a home that feels like an authentic and personal reflection of who they are.”

To learn more, please visit Keeler & Co. and follow @keelerandco on Instagram for ongoing inspiration.

A Dallas Dollhouse, Mark D. Sikes for J.McLaughlin, and The Art of Antiquing in France by Sharon Santoni

Welcome to TGP Tidbits where we round up the happenings and our musings of the design industry each week. This week we take a look at Dec My Room’s Dallas dollhouse, Mark D. Sikes for J.McLaughlin, and The Art of Antiquing in France by Sharon Santoni. Written by Natalie Aldridge.

Dec My Room Dallas Dollhouse

There’s an old saying that “everything is bigger in Texas,” but a recent charity event benefiting Dec My Room, an organization that decorates the rooms of children undergoing long-term hospital stays, proved the Lone Star State knows how to decorate on any scale.  The annual “Room To Grow” luncheon, showcased miniature rooms designed by an impressive roster of Dallas designers, and a dollhouse custom-designed to look like the iconic Father of the Bride house.

Photo by Caroline Guinn Photography
“The Garden Room” by Fonde Interiors, Photo by Caroline Guinn Photography
“A Chinoiserie Aerie” by Coco & Dash Interiors, Photo by Caroline Guinn Photography

We have written extensively about our affection for miniatures over the years here at The Glam Pad. There is simply something irresistible about them. Tiny pleated lampshades, perfectly skirted tables, little oil paintings, scaled down antiques… somehow everything becomes even more charming in miniature form. And for Dec my Room, each designer each brought their own aesthetic point of view into tiny, exquisitely detailed spaces.

“The Golden Age Dressing Room” by Traci Connell Interiors, Photo by Caroline Guinn Photography
“The Florentine Midnight Table” by Burkle Creative, Photo by Caroline Guinn Photography
“The Sunny Stripe Kitchen” by Noel Pittman Design, Photo by Caroline Guinn Photography

What we especially love is that these rooms still feel deeply decorated and layered despite their scale. There are proper art collections, tailored upholstery, passementerie, and beautifully furnishings that somehow make us want to shrink ourselves down and move right in. They capture everything we love most about interiors: personality, storytelling, craftsmanship, and charm.

“After the Applause” by Maestri Studio with Arcana Mantels, Photo by Caroline Guinn Photography
“Le Jardin des Enfants” by Lisa Henderson Interiors, Photo by Caroline Guinn Photography
“Le Jardin des Enfants” by Lisa Henderson Interiors, Photo by Caroline Guinn Photography

The miniature rooms and dollhouse were sold via auction last month to raise funds for Dec My Room. Whimsical, nostalgic, and genuinely beautiful, these tiny interiors may just be some of our favorite rooms we have seen all season. Please visit PaperCity Dallas to see more!

Mark D. Sikes for J.McLaughlin

Classic, polished, endlessly chic, and deeply rooted in timeless American style, we could not be more excited for Mark D. Sikes’ collaboration with J.McLaughlin’s Monogram line. The upcoming collection beautifully marries Mark’s instantly recognizable point of view with the effortless sophistication J.McLaughlin has long been known for.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by J.McLaughlin (@jmclaughlin)

What makes the collaboration feel especially meaningful, however, is the story behind it. Born out of a decades-long friendship between Mark and J.McLaughlin CEO Greg Unis, who worked together early on in their careers, the collection carries a sense of authenticity and warmth that feels refreshingly genuine.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by J.McLaughlin (@jmclaughlin)

Recently previewed in Dallas amongst a stylish crowd including Caitlin Wilson, Kimberly Whitman Schlegel, and others from the design world, the launch already feels poised to become a favorite amongst those who appreciate classic style with a fresh, optimistic spirit. In short, it is the sort of collaboration that feels both familiar and exciting in the very best way. And frankly, anything with Mark D. Sikes’ name attached immediately has our attention.

The Art of Antiquing in France by Sharon Santoni

There are few things we adore more than French antiques. A perfectly worn furniture, stacks of leather-bound books, a faded landscape painting discovered at a countryside brocante, or an oversized copper pot that somehow makes an entire kitchen feel infinitely more charming. The French simply understand that a home should feel collected, layered, and deeply personal rather than overly perfect.

Newly released, The Art of Antiquing in France by Sharon Santoni is a true love letter to that world and the sort of book we plan to keep close at hand for endless inspiration. After decades spent sourcing antiques throughout France, Santoni shares an insider’s guide to the art of collecting French pieces with soul and character, from floral transferware and quilted boutis to antique silver, paintings, mirrors, chandeliers, textiles, and garden ornamentation.

p.19 ©Sharon Santoni, from The Art of Antiquing in France, Flammarion
p.37 ©Joanna Maclennan, from The Art of Antiquing in France, Flammarion
p.70 ©Sharon Santoni, from The Art of Antiquing in France, Flammarion
p.96 right ©Sharon Santoni, from The Art of Antiquing in France, Flammarion

Filled with wonderfully atmospheric photography, The Art of Antiquing in France beautifully captures the romance of the hunt itself. Alongside practical advice on navigating flea markets, déballages, auctions, and fairs are recommendations for antique dealers throughout France and useful French phrases for antiquing abroad. Equal parts escapist fantasy and genuinely useful resource, it is the kind of book that will leave you dreaming of leisurely mornings spent wandering Provençal markets in search of the perfect gilded mirror or weathered ceramic vessel.

p.109 ©Joanna Maclennan, from The Art of Antiquing in France, Flammarion
p.237 ©Sharon Santoni, from The Art of Antiquing in France, Flammarion

For anyone who believes the most beautiful homes are the ones filled with history, charm, and a touch of imperfection, this one is absolutely worth adding to your library.

Don’t forget to pick up your copy here!

The Cover ©Sharon Santoni, from The Art of Antiquing in France, Flammarion

Read our favorite articles of the week!

Farmhouse That Nurtures Nature With Palette and Pattern written by Margaret Zainey Roux for Frederic.

This “Anti-Open Floor Plan” New York Home Proves Separate Rooms Are Back in Style written by Carisha Swanson for House Beautiful.

Shop this week’s inspired finds!

x Natalie

Follow TGP on Instagram: @theglampad
Follow Natalie on Instagram: @natalieealdridge

In Case You Missed the Southeastern Designer Showhouse…

Written by Natalie Aldridge.

There is always something especially exciting about showhouse season. Each year, the design calendar fills with homes across the country, each with its own personality, charitable mission, and roster of designers eager to leave their mark. The 2026 Southeastern Designer Showhouse presented by Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles closed this week, but we are revisiting some highlights today in case you missed it…

Helen Hanavich Design with Bungalow Classic. Photography by David Christensen.

With rooms by designers including Suzanne Kasler, Isabel Ladd, Kim Mauney, Lauren Lowe, Alexandre Fleuren, and more, the house has range of perspectives while still feeling incredibly cohesive from room to room. While we admittedly tend to gravitate toward spaces with a bit more layering and exuberance, there is something deeply appealing about the restraint seen throughout this show house. Each space feels fresh, tailored, and beautiful.

Let’s take a look inside!

Photography by David Christensen

Elegant, fresh, and remarkably well restrained, it is the sort of house that allows craftsmanship and thoughtful decoration to speak for themselves. The newly built Chastain Park residence features modern architecture softened just a bit and refined through airy interiors, layered textures, and clean lines that feel incredibly fresh right now. It is polished without feeling formal, sophisticated without feeling untouchable, and filled with the sort of details that quietly reveal themselves the longer you look.

From the moment you enter, the home feels remarkably composed. Curved plaster walls temper the structure of the architecture, while herringbone floors, warm natural stone, tailored millwork, and layers of soft texture create an atmosphere that feels both elevated and deeply livable. The palette throughout is sophisticated, allowing proportion, materiality, and craftsmanship to take center stage.

J Layton Interiors. Photography by Jeff Herr.
J Layton Interiors. Photography by Jeff Herr.
Marianna Lane Interiors. Photography by David Christensen.
Bowdre Longo. Photography by David Christensen.
Holt Interiors. Photography by David Christensen.
Claudia Stimmel Interiors. Photography by David Christensen.
Claudia Stimmel Interiors with Somewhere South Sauna Cellars. Photography by David Christensen.
Lauren Elaine Interiors. Photography by Jeff Herr.
Lauren Elaine Interiors. Photography by Jeff Herr.
Claudia Stimmel Interiors and The Selective Design. Photography by David Christensen.
The Selective Design. Photography by David Christensen.
Suzanne Kasler Interiors. Photography by David Christensen.

Design Galleria. Photography by David Christensen.
Isabel Ladd Interiors. Photography by David Christensen.
Stanton Furnishings. Photography by David Christensen.
Kim Mauney Interiors. Photography by David Christensen.
BIRD Interiors. Photography by David Christensen.
Claudia Stimmel Interiors. Photography by Jeff Herr.
Harrison Design. Photography by David Christensen.
UpCountry Home. Photography by David Christensen.
UpCountry Home. Photography by David Christensen.
The Design Editors. Photography by David Christensen.
Gabrielle Picard Designs. Photography by David Christensen.
Alexandre Fleuren Interiors. Photography by David Christensen.
McGhee Studios. Photography by Jeff Herr.
Anna Booth Interiors. Photography by Jeff Herr.

To learn more, visit Southeastern Designer Showhouse here.

 

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Photography by David Christensen

x Natalie

Follow TGP on Instagram: @theglampad
Follow Natalie on Instagram: @natalieealdridge

Inside Christopher Spitzmiller’s Apartment Refresh, Hunt Slonem at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, and The Lacquer Company Opens in New York

Welcome to TGP Tidbits where we round up the happenings and our musings of the design industry each week. This week we take a look Inside Christopher Spitzmiller’s Apartment Refresh, Hunt Slonem at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, and The Lacquer Company Opens in New York. Written by Natalie Aldridge.

Inside Christopher Spitzmiller’s Apartment Refresh

Known as the “Potter to the Presidents,” the extraordinary Christopher Spitzmiller has refreshed his longtime Upper East Side apartment with help from Tillett Textiles and the new Matouk x Tillett collaboration, giving the beloved home an even more layered and botanical feel — and we cannot get enough.

Photography by Annie Schlechter

Known for his iconic pottery, lamps, and beloved Clove Brook Farm in the Hudson Valley, Christopher has long mastered the art of collected, cheerful interiors. Like many design lovers, there always comes a time for a refresh, though somehow a home never truly feels complete. The update includes Tillett fabrics on the sofa, chairs, dining table draping, pillows, and lampshades, while pieces from the Matouk collaboration add pattern through bedding, guest towels, and a shower curtain.

Photography by Annie Schlechter
Photography by Annie Schlechter

Founded in the 1940s, Tillett became legendary for its hand-screened fabrics adored by tastemakers from Babe Paley to Jackie Kennedy. Paired with Spitzmiller’s romantic, garden-inflected style, the collaboration feels especially fitting.

Photography by Annie Schlechter
Photography by Annie Schlechter

While many design lovers may recognize the apartment from its previous appearance on Homeworthy, this refreshed iteration has yet to be seen publicly. And honestly, we are always happy to look at anything Christopher Spitzmiller touches. It is the perfect palate cleanser for spring.

Photography by Annie Schlechter
Photography by Annie Schlechter
Photography by Annie Schlechter

Hunt Slonem at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

If there is one thing we will never tire of, it whimsical world of Hunt Slonem. This spring, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden has transformed into a wonderfully eccentric open-air gallery with Hunt Slonem: Bunnies, Birds & Butterflies, a vibrant takeover by the celebrated artist known for his delightfully maximalist menagerie of rabbits, tropical birds, and fluttering butterflies.

 On view through September 30th, the exhibition features 28 monumental installations scattered throughout the Arboretum’s 66 acres, alongside more than 100 additional works displayed inside the historic Camp House. One can expect to see giant bunnies peeking through garden paths, colorful butterflies hovering amongst the blooms, and maybe even a birdie or two. It is the sort of joyful visual feast that feels tailor-made for a spring.

 

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Hunt’s work has always existed somewhere between fantasy and obsession. Each of his works are repetitive, colorful, slightly surreal, and utterly unmistakable. Set against the backdrop of one of America’s most beautiful gardens, the effect feels immersive in the best possible way. Frankly, if Beatrix Potter decamped to Palm Beach and developed a knack for maximalism, this might be the result. Do not forget to pay a visit… Also check out Hunt’s Gilded Age Mansion for sale in the Catskills Mountains!

The Lacquer Company Opens in New York

Lacquer lovers, this one is for you. The Lacquer Company has officially opened a New York showroom at 200 Lexington Avenue, and honestly, it is a candy colored slice of heaven.

The Lacquer Company
The Lacquer Company

Led by designer James Lowther, the London-based brand has built a devoted following for its richly colored lacquer furniture and accessories, all handcrafted by artisans in Saigon using the centuries-old Vietnamese tradition of Son Mai lacquer craftsmanship. The result is a confection of pieces that feel equal parts timeless, glamorous, and unabashedly fun.

The Lacquer Company
The Lacquer Company
The Lacquer Company

The beautiful light-filled showroom features both in-stock and custom pieces, alongside collaborations with design favorites including Rita Konig, Miles Redd, and Veere Grenney. Think glossy jewel tones, sharp silhouettes, and enough chic lacquer pieces to last a life time. to suddenly make every room feel like it could use a little more shine.

Frankly, this may become one of our more dangerous regular stops during New York Design Week. Its utterly fun and dare I say practical.

Read our favorite articles of the week!

48 Elevated Mother’s Day Gifts for the Mom Who Has Everything written by Jaime Milan for Veranda.

Ariel Okin’s Sprawling Cape Cod Project Is a Love Letter to Summer by the Sea written by Alyssa Longobucco for House Beautiful.

Shop this week’s inspired finds!

x Natalie

Follow TGP on Instagram: @theglampad
Follow Natalie on Instagram: @natalieealdridge

Step Inside Designer Ashley Hanley’s Chic Kentucky Derby Party

When it comes to elegant and timeless interiors, Richmond-based designer Ashley Hanley is a favorite at The Glam Pad… and she also knows how to host a fabulous Kentucky Derby party with full Southern charm!

While it may be the “Fastest Two Minutes in Sports,” the Kentucky Derby, now in its 152nd year, is a delightful opportunity to celebrate with friends, revel in the pageantry, and – of course – don a whimsical hat. Today we join the Hanleys as they Run for the Roses with a chic and fun Derby dinner party at their beautiful 1930s Virginia home.

Ashley and Brendan Hanley

Catering by George T. Carroll Jr. and photography by Nancy Brown.

Custom invitations and vintage stamps set the tone and garner excitement for the soirée!
Personalized race horse trophies make perfect place cards!

A bouquet of red roses makes a simple yet elegant centerpiece, beautifully complementing Ashley’s vintage Rosalie china.

Equestrian awards ribbons add a festive touch throughout the house.

Thank you, Ashley, for including us today! For additional inspiration, please enjoy past articles by The Glam Pad featuring the work of Ashley Hanley:

And you will want to follow @ashleybhanley on Instagram!

The Fund for Park Avenue’s Annual Tulip Party, The Castine Historical Society House & Garden Tour, and A Darling Safari Nursery

Welcome to TGP Tidbits where we round up the happenings and our musings of the design industry each week. This week we take a look at The Fund for Park Avenue’s Annual Tulip Party, The Castine Historical Society House & Garden Tour, and A Darling Nursery with a Safari Spirit. Written by Natalie Aldridge.

The Fund for Park Avenue’s Annual Tulip Party

Each spring, Park Avenue bursts into bloom, its iconic tulips transforming the avenue into one of the city’s most beloved seasonal rituals. The annual Tulip Party, held in celebration of these very plantings, brings that energy indoors, gathering the design community in honor of the flowers that have come to define the avenue. This year’s fête took place on April 16th at Scully & Scully, with an added layer of meaning as the country approaches its 250th anniversary.

Barba Hill Design
Sebastian Trujillo In Situ Garden Design
Phoebe Beachner
Christopher Sale
Emily Evans Eerdmans

Inside, thirteen designers were invited to create tables inspired by the original colonies, resulting in a series of vignettes that felt as thoughtful as they were decorative. There was a sense of storytelling throughout, with each table offering its own interpretation of American life, history, and beauty, filtered through a distinctly modern lens. Participants including Natalie Aldridge, Joshua Barba-Hill, Phoebe Beachner, Emily Evans Eerdmans, Garrett Carter, Christopher Sale, Sebastian Trujillo, Jennifer Cohler Mason, Sam Moorkamp, Nicole Moriarty, Scot Meacham Wood, and Rudy Saunders each brought a mix of polish, personality, and imagination to the evening.

Rudy Saunders
Nicole Moriarty
Sam Moorkamp, Molly Aksel
Jennifer Cohler Mason

Naturally, we took a closer look at The Glam Pad’s own Natalie Aldridge, whose table was a refreshing departure from the more literal interpretations of the theme. Rather than leaning into overt Americana, she turned to the natural beauty of American flora, creating a setting that felt vibrant, layered, and joyful. Herend Royal Garden china layered over Tuckernuck’s Spring Collection Blue and Lavender Blossom tablecloth set the tone for something refined but certainly not serious. There was a lightness to it, a sense of ease that made the table feel genuinely fun. The floral arrangements, designed by Natalie herself, only added to that spirit, loose, abundant, and full of life, bringing a fresh, celebratory energy to the entire setting.

Natalie Aldridge
Natalie Aldridge
Natalie Aldridge
Natalie Aldridge

There is something enduring about the Tulip Party. Rooted in the simple act of celebrating flowers, design, and the importance of the Fund for Park Avenue, it continues to evolve year after year, proving that even the most classic traditions can feel entirely alive.

Make sure to shop Scully & Scully for all of your tabletop and gifting needs.

The Castine Historical Society House & Garden Tour

If a quintessential New England moment is calling your name, make sure to mark your calendar! The Castine Historical Society will host its House & Garden Tour on July 24th, a special event held just once every four years, and one that offers a rare look inside one of coastal Maine’s most charming villages.

Set along the Penobscot River, Castine is a New England gem with elm-lined streets, harbor views, and beautifully preserved homes spanning Federal, Georgian, Greek Revival, and Victorian styles. The tour includes twelve houses and three gardens, each providing its own glimpse into the town’s layered history.

 

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One highlight we are especially excited about: Emily Eerdmans’ historic “Pink Palace” will be on the tour. A long-time Glam Pad favorite, we cannot wait to see the historic home Emily has been bring back to life. Altogether, it is the kind of outing that feels equal parts escapist and inspiring, and very much worth the trip. More information and tickets can be found here.

A Darling Nursery with a Safari Spirit

This week, we are taking a look inside a darling little boy’s nursery by Connecticut-based interior designer Nicole Moriarty, and it is exactly the kind of space that reminds you how chic a nursery can be.

Nicole Moriarty Interiors, Photographed by Niles Weiss

The inspiration began with a safari to South Africa with her husband just before her son Henry’s arrival, but rather than leaning into anything too literal, Moriarty translated that experience into something far more subtle and lasting. A photograph taken by her husband on that trip hangs above the crib, anchoring the room with a sense of memory and meaning.

Nicole Moriarty Interiors, Photographed by Niles Weiss

The foundation is refreshingly grown up. A mid-century style crib and dresser from West Elm for Pottery Barn set the tone, giving the space a structure that feels considered rather than overly sweet. A beautifully tailored chair by Monte Design, finished with a pillow by Beata Heuman, adds just the right note of whimsy and charm.

Nicole Moriarty Interiors, Photographed by Niles Weiss

Because the home is a rental, paint was used in place of wallpaper, a decision that keeps the room feeling soft and unfussy. From there, it is all about the layering. Curtain fabric by Kerry Joyce and a daybed upholstered in Jane Shelton bring warmth and depth, while crisp shams by Porthault add that touch of polish. Underfoot, an Annie Selke rug grounds the space, while lighting details, a sconce shade from Pooky Lighting and a dresser lamp shade from Fermoie, give it a collected finish.

Nicole Moriarty Interiors, Photographed by Niles Weiss

Antique accessories are woven throughout, giving the room a sense of history and personality that keeps it from feeling too pristine. The result is joyful, layered, and effortlessly refined. It feels personal, a little unexpected, and above all, like a space designed to grow beautifully over time. Its a timeless safari for the sweetest baby boy. To learn more, please visit Nicole Moriarty Interiors.

Read our favorite articles of the week!

This Manor House Apartment Will Make You Fall for the French Countryside written by Diane Dorrans Saeks for Veranda.

The Expert’s Guide to Reupholstering Flea Market Finds written by Jill Simpson for Frederic.

Shop this week’s inspired finds!

x Natalie

Follow TGP on Instagram: @theglampad
Follow Natalie on Instagram: @natalieealdridge