Details That Make the Design: 4 Elements That Elevate Every Space

When someone walks into a beautifully designed room, they’re often struck by the big things: the layout, the finishes, the furniture. But ask any designer and they’ll tell you—the real magic is in the details.

At Lovelace Studios, we believe the most memorable rooms are made up of thoughtful, often subtle, decisions. The kind of choices that might not scream “look at me,” but quietly and consistently elevate the space. From layered lighting to custom built-ins, these are the four elements we never overlook—and that we find make the biggest impact in how a home feels and functions.

1. Built-Ins: Form Meets Function

Built-ins are more than just storage—they’re architectural statements. They help define a room, provide structure, and offer an opportunity to infuse personality and color.

From floor-to-ceiling living room shelving to flanking a fireplace with custom cabinetry, built-ins create moments of intention. We often skip standard white in favor of bold tones or rich finishes that tie into the home’s broader color palette.

💡 Pro Tip: For added texture and visual interest, line the back of a built-in with wallpaper or paneling. Bonus points for adding sconces to highlight your styling.

2. Wallpaper: One Wall Can Do Wonders

Wallpaper has evolved far beyond the traditional floral prints of decades past. It’s now one of our favorite tools for adding instant mood and depth to a space—especially when used in moderation.

Whether it’s grasscloth behind a bed, a statement print in a powder room, or something subtle in a hallway, wallpaper can warm up a space, create visual contrast, or add texture where paint might fall flat.

💡 Pro Tip: Not ready to commit to a full room? Try wallpapering the back of shelves, the inside of a built-in, or even the ceiling.

3. Hardware: Small Choices, Big Impact

Hardware is often referred to as the jewelry of the home—and for good reason. These small pieces can carry a surprising amount of influence in how polished a space feels.

We look for hardware that feels substantial to the touch and has a quality finish. Whether it’s a sleek black faucet, a sculptural wall hook, or an oversized knob, a well-chosen piece adds both beauty and function.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t underestimate the power of finish and weight. If it feels too light, it likely is. A well-made piece with a higher-end finish can instantly elevate even the simplest cabinetry.

4. Cozy Corners: Spaces That Invite You In

Design isn’t just about how a home looks—it’s about how it lives. And nothing says lived-in and loved like a thoughtfully styled cozy corner.

These intimate nooks—a reading chair with a lamp, a bench by the window, a layered entry vignette—invite you to slow down. They’re where personal style and daily function meet.

💡 Pro Tip: Layer your cozy corner like you would an outfit. A soft throw, a patterned pillow, a warm wood element, and soft lighting will make it a spot you return to again and again.

Why the Details Matter

Great design is often quiet. It doesn’t need to shout—it just needs to feel right. And more often than not, it’s the smallest decisions that have the biggest impact.

So whether you’re starting from scratch or refining what you already have, remember: the beauty is in the details. And those details are what turn a house into a home.