Kirkwood wallpaper by Thibaut

Sarah Coombs August 29, 2014

I love a jolt of whimsy in decor. That's why I was so pleased to come across this pattern when doing research for a client's dining room the other day. It's called Kirkwood, and it's from the Shangri-La collection for Thibaut, the venerable American design house.

Maharani wallpaper and fabric by Osborne & Little

Sarah Coombs May 15, 2014

I'm fortunate to have a great side gig: I write about interior design and style for Oakland and Alameda Magazines. One of the most fun parts of that job is suggesting photos to accompany my articles. When doing research for my most recent assignment, I came across this wallpaper. The pattern is called Maharani, produced by the legendary design house Osborne & Little. It also comes as a fabric, and they're both pretty amazing.

Perfect in plaid

Sarah Coombs February 18, 2014

A reporter asked me recently what I thought the next big trend in pattern would be. I think my answer surprised her: plaid. Yep, that same preppy, masculine, and--dare I say old-fashioned--pattern is definitely having a moment. Here's why: despite its density, it plays surprisingly well with others. It's great in a mountain cabin, of course, or a manly den. But it is also pleasingly fresh in less rugged surroundings. Unconvinced? Let me show you what I mean.

Home of Solange Azagury Partridge via World of Interiors, February 2013

Leafy love

Sarah Coombs January 22, 2014

It's a lot less green out there, even here in sunny California. And so I find myself drawn to things that remind me of spring, like these amazing tropical leaf prints. They're wild and fecund and altogether fun. This boldness makes them a bit tricky to work with, though. But fear not: I've got tips for you on how to use them. Read on for some leafy inspiration and education.

My favorite design advice

Sarah Coombs March 29, 2013

I try to follow this rule in my own home, and I encourage every one of my clients to do the same. It's a surefire way to rid yourself of clutter.

This isn't to say that William Morris is a minimalist--far from it. In fact, he's a genius with lushly detailed decor. He may have done most of his work in the mid to late 1800s, but it can still feel so fresh. And you know Will and I both love a good pattern mix.