14 Ways to Make Your Patio Pop With Color

BEFORE

Before the remodel, the home left A LOT to be desired -- think boob lighting and icky yellow walls. The double doors shown here are mid-century cool but the entry design is pretty sad and dated. Tina and Shawn truly modernized it and created a sanctuary for the couple and their baby.

AFTER

Their inspiration? "Tulum! Our clients were so excited about this specific area and were inspired by Mexico. They love postmodernism design and they are a bit of a maximalist at heart," says Tina. "We wanted to keep the design pretty neutral so we could balance the design and art."

Here's the entry now -- amazing, right?! The whole house feels serene and tailored while embracing the beautiful LA weather and views. Shawn and Tina used earthy, natural materials to keep it timeless and took advantage of the terraced hillside for planting and lounging with drought-tolerant plants.

Here are 12 ideas I took away from their gorgeous design that I'll be bringing into my own home, or future home!

Home Decor Ideas À La Dacotah Studio

'70s Modern

"We wanted to preserve the older architectural details, which had tons of character and charm and looked beautiful with the newer materials we selected," says Shawn. I'm loving these classic modern sofas in a pop of orange. The OGs were designed by Michel Ducaroy for Ligne Roset in the 1970s and go for more than $5K but you can find more affordable options inspired by the original. The color scheme here is on point without feeling overly trendy.

"If you are going to play with trends, do it in a way that can be swapped out every so often (e.g., rugs, artwork, accent chairs), rather than going too trendy on the hard materials like countertops, tiles, etc," says Tina. The coffee table they found vintage in Palm Springs and the artwork is designed by pop artist Steve Harrington.

Sculptural Lamps

Lamps can make such an impact in a room. This black table lamp from Jonathan Entler stands out like an art piece, as does this Hem Puffy chair. This Wayfair sculptural table lamp and Article lounge chair have a similar effect at a lower price point. We can't all afford high-end pieces but a few key pieces here and there that we love is also a good investment.

Transitional Flooring

"We used earthy. natural materials, mimicking the Yucatan/Tulum region of Mexico," says Tina. The porcelain kitchen flooring transitions to maple wood flooring throughout the home. I love the lighter natural woods mixed with the stucco and stone, creating unique moments that separate the spaces.

Wishbone Chairs

The first time I saw Hans Wegner's Wishbone Chair (1949) I was smitten. I have two chairs inspired by the original that I splurged on more than a decade ago at HD Buttercup. They are the pieces I still hold on to and always get compliments on — a true test of a classic design that never goes out of style.

Maple Cabinets

There's so much to love here: the durable Taj Mahal Quartzite slab tile, the vertical window that frames the hedges, the clean-lined shelf, and the continuation of maple on the cabinets. "The kitchen cabinets were maple wood and the stain was natural, which was more cost-effective while maintaining that beautiful, natural look," says Tina.

Outdoor Living

I will never not buy or rent a home that doesn't have tons of natural light. I love how the kitchen feels seamless with the outdoors, bringing in tons of light but also making it easier to entertain outdoors. The pendants echo the table lamp in the living room while the rope-backed bar stools are total Tulum vibes.

William Sonoma Cambria stool has a similar aesthetic. This trio pendant by Plato is also a showstopper.

Warm Bedding

I'm slowing phasing out of my blue phase. These mix-and-match organic sheets from Morrow Goods are a warmer upgrade.

Built-In Shelves

Built-in shelves are looking more sleek these days. This curved maple built-in continues the design story in such a stunning way.

Bath Planters

Bring the outdoors in...to your bath. Love this built-in planter for bringing clean-air plants into your self-care haven. The zig-zag tile is also a dreamy effect.

Terrazzo

I'm been obsessed with terrazzo for quite some time and adore how they use it here on the flooring. The speckled colors are just *speechless* and add an unexpected design element to the whole serene aesthetic. Never boring!

Brass

This whole look just slays but I especially love the brass bath towel bar inside the shower, creating more of a spa-like feeling inside. Also a ceramic vase with flowers are especially lovely for you or your guests.

Asymmetry

I love the organic effect of this brass mirror and clay pendants — as Spanish architect Antonio Gaudi said, "There are no sharp corners in nature." West Elm has a similar mirror design you can shop, too.

Bedroom Decor Mistake #1: Excessive Clutter

Instead: Make Your Bed and Get Organized

Clutter can create this sense of chaos in your life, which can negatively impact your ability to relax and fall asleep. "Keeping a tidy space is essential for allowing your thoughts to settle and your body to wind down," says Smith. "Be sure to keep surfaces clutter-free and make your bed in the morning to create a welcoming experience after a long day." Organize your closets and drawers so that it's easy to put clothes away too.

Mistake #2: Too Many Energetic Colors

Instead: Use Bright Colors In Moderation

Bold and bright colors can be visually stimulating (which is why we love them) but they also can make it harder for your mind to relax and wind down before sleep. "When creating a calming and serene atmosphere, we like to feature lighter colors in soothing blues, greens, ivories, beiges, and other pastels," says Victoria Holly, principal and founder of LA-based Victoria Holly Interiors. "But realistically different people find different colors calming, so we like to make sure that we're tailoring calming colors to our clients."

Mistake #3: Too Much Technology

Instead: Keep Tech Out of the Bedroom (Try It For A Week)

We've all heard about how the blue light from devices can negatively impact our natural sleep cycle. Devices can also delay when you go to sleep and how long you sleep. Try leaving them out of the bedroom for a week – charge them outside of the room – and see how your sleep improves. "Remove any distractions that could keep you awake or cause stress, like work related items and yes, the TV too," adds Smith.

Mistake #4: Uncomfortable Bed + Bedding

Instead: Invest In Quality Bedding

"The most important thing when it comes to the bedroom is to invest in a quality mattress and bedding that feels good to you," says Smith. Has it been more than 10 years since you replaced your mattress, or is your current one causing you discomfort? Invest in a quality mattress and find comfortable, layered bedding in natural materials like cotton and linen.

Bedroom Decor Mistake #5: Temperature Extremes

Instead: Keep Temps In The Upper 60s

A bedroom that is too hot or too cold can mess with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep comfortably. Open the windows to bring in fresh air during the day and maintain a comfy temperature by using fans, heaters, or adjusting your thermostat. Experts recommend keeping your thermostat between 65 to 68 degrees F for the most comfortable sleep.

Mistake #6: Shabby Window Treatments

Instead: Opt For Blackout Curtains

Light exposure from streetlights or sunlight streaming in through uncovered windows can disrupt your sleep patterns. Splurge on blackout curtains instead. "Blackout curtains are a welcome addition to a bedroom as they allow uninterrupted darkness for a restful sleep through the night and into the light of early morning," says Eddie Maestri, principal architect and creative director of Dallas-based Maestri Studio.

Mistake #7: Poor Lighting

Instead: Choose Soft, Dimmable Lights

Bedside lamps or wall sconces create a cozy space ideal for relaxing. "Having the right lighting makes all the difference in the world when it comes how your bedroom feels," says Smith. "Soft lighting from floor and accent table lamps are best for the bedroom verses harsh overhead lighting."

Mistake #8: It Doesn't Feel Inviting

Instead: Incorporate Items That Bring You Joy

Imagine walking into a hotel room that makes you feel sad or stressed out. You'd probably not hang around, or choose that hotel again. Treat your bedroom as a beautiful getaway that serves as a place for rest above anything else. "Incorporate items that bring you joy and evoke a sense of peace and serenity, such as artwork of nature scenes, plants, or meaningful photos of you and your partner," says Smith.

Mistake #9: Creaky Floors

Instead: Cover Floors In Comfy Materials

Floors make a big difference in how your bedroom looks, feels, and sounds. "Carpeting your bedroom or adding a soft area rug helps soften any harsh noises like footsteps," says Smith. Area rugs should extend beyond both sides of the bed and provide enough comfort for bare feet.

Bedroom Decor Mistake #10: Not Managing Noise

Instead: Block Noise With A Sound Machine

If you live in a city, you likely have some street noise or the sound of noisy neighbors playing in the background. Earplugs can help but there are ways to block the noise disrupting your sleep with your decor. "Consider a sound machine for ambient noise that will help to drown out distractions and steady the mind, allowing the body to relax and recharge," says Smith. "Window drapery also helps to dampen any outside noises. Consider long flowing treatments for a soft, ethereal vibe."

Find more bedroom decor inspiration on our Home Decor page and subscribe to our email newsletter for all our home decor tips.

Main photos by Monstera Production and Vlada Karpovich

Set of 4 Meal Prep Containers

Who doesn’t love pretty Tupperware? Whether your 2024 grad is a gym rat or a library lover, they will definitely find a good use for these air-tight, leak-proof containers.

Benevolence LA New Beginnings Scented Soy Candle

Send them off with this sweet-scented candle that celebrates their achievements, as well as the next steps ahead of them!

A Hundred Other Girlsby Iman Hariri-Kia

This book is like a modern day Devil Wears Prada, and would make the perfect gift for any grad going into journalism, media, or PR — especially if they’re moving to a big city.

Stanley Quencher H2.0

Hydration is key for anyone, especially a new college student that's running between classes, club meetings, and friend hangs! This tumbler will also keep their liquids cold overnight so they don't have to go down the dorm hall in the middle of the night for a fresh refill.

Dagne Dover Mila Repreve® Recycled Polyester Large Toiletry Organizer Bag

If you're sending off a high school grad to communal dorms, they'll definitely benefit from having a compact toiletry bag like this one. This style is particularly nice since it's made from recycled polyester that resists water and debris.

2024 Daily Planner

Using a planner is such an underrated way to stay organized, whether it's prepping for college coursework or adulting stuff like work events, grocery shopping, and plans with friends. This all-in-one daily planner will help your grad keep their ducks in a row with fields for all of life's details.

Honeywell Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

This humidifier, made especially for small rooms and personal spaces (ahem, dorm rooms!) helps maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which can help relieve congestion and keep the throat and nasal passages hydrated to prevent sickness. This is crucial for soon-to-be college students who may hang around a lot of different people.​

Fresh Sends Flower Bouquet

Flowers are a staple for any major life event, especially a graduation! Fresh Sends is perfect for sending beautiful bouquets for those who live far away, since they ship directly to the recipient's door.

The Beast Mini Blender

This super-effective, high-power portable blender is the perfect size for a dorm room or small apartment, plus it's very aesthetically-pleasing even if it's just sitting on the shelf. It comes equipped with a screw-on lid and straw, too, so your grad can take it on walks and in the car.

Béis The Sport Backpack

Perfect for grads on the go, this bag can hold their water bottle, phone, wallet and so much more when they're trekking across campus.

Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs

These design-forward earplugs are multipurpose – they block out extra noise for study sessions and sleep time, or even loud parties and concerts! Your grad will appreciate that they come with an easy-to-carry case for keeping them on-hand in unforeseen, noisy situations.

Crush Your Goals Inner Truth Affirmations Deck

For an extra dose of motivation, this 40-count deck of cards will keep them going when times get tough!

Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers

Hokas are undoubtedly the cool girl of running shoes, and they will definitely make your grad hit the pavement smiling, no matter if they're stepping foot on their college campus for the first time or making big moves in a new city.

Great Jones The Starting Lineup

This trio of cookware is such a stylish way to give your recipient's post-grad kitchen an upgrade. All three pieces are oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly to make cleanup a breeze.