Decorizer

When we think of Olympic villages, we usually picture “pop-up” housing—functional, fast, and ultimately forgotten. However, the Milano Olympic Village, a cornerstone of the Milano Cortina 2026 games, is staging a design revolution. With a staggering $140 million investment, Milan is pivoting away from short-term spectacle toward a concept designers are calling “Sustainable Chic.”

This isn’t just a dormitory for athletes; it is a masterclass in urban renewal that answers the burning question: How do we build for the future without sacrificing the soul of a city?

The “Sustainable Chic” Aesthetic: Redefining Urban Luxury

The aesthetic of the village is a departure from the flashy, high-tech façades of the past. Instead, it embraces a restrained, sophisticated minimalism that feels more like a boutique hotel than an athletic complex.

• Natural Materials: The use of wood accents and recycled concrete provides a tactile, “warm” minimalism.
• Light as a Resource: Floor-to-ceiling high-performance glass isn’t just for the views; it’s a strategic move to maximize daylight harvesting.
• Muted Palettes: By using timeless, earthy tones, the architecture avoids looking “dated” the moment the closing ceremony ends.

Why Designers Are Paying Attention: This project shifts the focus from “iconic silhouettes” to human-centered design. It’s about creating spaces people actually want to inhabit, not just photograph.

From Athlete Housing to Student Living: The Ultimate Pivot

Unlike the “White Elephants” of previous Games (think Rio or Athens), Milan’s village was conceived as a permanent neighborhood first and a village second.

A Blueprint for Urban Renewal

Once the 2026 Games conclude, the site will undergo a seamless transition into:

1. Affordable Housing: Tackling the urban housing crisis.
2. Student Residences: Providing high-quality living for Milan’s vibrant academic community.
3. Public Green Spaces: Functioning as “urban lungs” to combat heat islands.

By designing the interiors with flexible layouts from day one, the developers are avoiding the massive carbon footprint usually associated with post-Olympic renovations.

Technical Innovation: High-Performance, Low-Impact

Behind the “chic” exterior lies a rigorous technical core designed to meet stringent climate goals.

Feature	Impact on Urban Living
Smart Climate Control	Reduces energy waste by adapting to real-time occupancy.
Functional Green Buffers	Woven courtyards that naturally cool the buildings.
Low-Emission Concrete	Significantly lowers the embodied carbon of the $140M build.

 

Why the Milano Olympic Village is a Global Model

As cities worldwide grapple with housing shortages and the climate crisis, Milan’s “Build Once, Use Forever” philosophy is the new gold standard. It proves that sustainable design doesn’t have to look industrial or “crunchy”—it can be refined, elegant, and deeply aspirational.

Milan is showing the world that the most sustainable building is the one that never needs to be torn down.

You're reading Inside the $140M Milano Winter Olympic Village: Is This the End of “Disposable” Architecture?, originally posted on Decoist. If you enjoyed this post, be sure to follow Decoist on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.

Posted By : Chris A.

The Housemaid has quickly become one of 2025’s most talked-about films—and not just because of its slow-burn tension or the performances by Sidney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried. Audiences are fixated on the setting: the imposing Winchester house, whose quiet luxury and unsettling restraint play as much of a role in the story as the characters themselves.

The film’s success lies in contrast. Nothing about the house screams horror. Instead, it whispers it. Muted colors, traditional architecture, controlled symmetry, and an almost oppressive sense of order make the home feel elegant—but emotionally cold. That tension between beauty and discomfort is what makes the Winchester house so memorable, and why its aesthetic is now trending far beyond the screen.

The good news? You don’t need a mansion—or a massive budget—to bring this look home.

Why the Winchester House Feels So Unsettling—and So Stylish

The decor in The Housemaid leans heavily into controlled elegance. Think classic silhouettes, restrained color palettes, minimal ornamentation, and rooms that feel curated rather than cozy. Furniture is substantial but not flashy. Walls are soft, neutral, and slightly desaturated. Lighting is deliberate and rarely bright.

This design works because it removes visual noise. The absence of clutter and color creates emotional distance—perfect for a psychological thriller, and surprisingly compelling for modern interiors craving calm with an edge.

Use a Muted Color Palette (And Stick to It)

The fastest way to echo the The Housemaid look is by editing your color scheme. Replace bright whites and bold accents with warm grays, soft taupes, stone beiges, and dusty greige tones.
You don’t need to repaint an entire home. Focus on:

• One accent wall in a muted neutral
• Swapping colorful cushions for tone-on-tone alternatives
• Using throws and curtains in the same color family

Consistency matters more than cost here.

Swap “Cozy” for Structured Textures

Plush, casual textures are largely absent in the Winchester house. Instead, you’ll see linen, wool blends, matte wood, brushed metal, and ceramic finishes.

Easy upgrades:

• Replace shiny decor with matte or stone-like pieces
• Choose linen-look pillow covers over velvet or faux fur
• Use wooden trays or bowls to anchor surfaces

The goal is restraint rather than softness.

Embrace Fewer, Heavier Furniture Pieces

Rather than lots of small items, The Housemaid interiors rely on visual weight. A single solid coffee table. One substantial armchair. A large mirror instead of multiple frames.

Try this:

• Remove one unnecessary side table or shelf
• Center the room around one “anchor” piece
• Keep surfaces intentionally sparse

Empty space is part of the design.

Let Lighting Set the Mood

Overhead lighting is rarely harsh in the film. Rooms glow instead of shine. You can recreate this by:

• Switching to warm bulbs (2700K or lower)
• Using table lamps instead of ceiling lights at night
• Positioning lamps low to create shadows

This instantly adds depth and drama—no rewiring required.

Curate, Don’t Decorate

What truly defines the Winchester house is intentional restraint. Every object feels chosen, not collected. Before buying anything new, remove one thing that doesn’t fit the mood.

If it doesn’t feel calm, controlled, and slightly distant—it doesn’t belong.

And that quiet tension? That’s The Housemaid effect.

You're reading How to Recreate the Winchester House Interiors from Sydney Sweeney’s The Housemaid (2025), originally posted on Decoist. If you enjoyed this post, be sure to follow Decoist on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.

Posted By : Maria

That lush, leafy plant by the window looks innocent—comforting, even. But during the winter months, some of the most popular “cozy” houseplants can quietly do the opposite of what you want. Instead of fresh air, they may be contributing to stale air, lingering moisture, and mold spores that have nowhere to escape once the windows stay shut.

The culprit isn’t always the species of the plant; it’s the way winter changes our indoor ecosystems.

Why Winter Turns Healthy Plants Into Air Quality Risks

In colder months, indoor plants enter a semi-dormant state. Growth slows down, light levels drop, and evaporation cycles stall. This means soil stays wet far longer than it does in July.

When watering habits don’t adjust for the season, excess moisture builds up around the roots. This creates a perfect storm for:

• Root Rot: Decaying organic matter that releases odors.
• Mold and Mildew: Fungal spores that thrive in damp potting mix and drift into your living space.
• Fungus Gnats: Pests that flourish in persistently wet topsoil.

In tightly sealed, energy-efficient winter homes, these airborne irritants circulate repeatedly, directly impacting your respiratory health.

The ‘Cozy’ Plant Most Likely to Cause Issues: The Peace Lily

Ironically, some of the most beloved houseplants are the easiest to overwater. The Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) often tops this list.

While marketed as an “air-purifying” powerhouse, Peace Lilies are famous for “fainting” when thirsty. This trains owners to water them frequently. In winter, this instinct backfires. Constantly damp soil around a Peace Lily can lead to hidden mold growth, even if the plant looks vibrant above the surface.

Other moisture-loving plants that can trigger winter air issues include:

• Boston Ferns
• Majesty Palms
• English Ivy (if misted too heavily in stagnant air)

The Best Plants for Better Indoor Air Quality in Winter

If your goal is to scrub the air while windows stay closed, plant choice—and resilience—matters. The following plants tolerate dry soil and low light, significantly reducing the risk of mold:

1. Snake Plants (Sansevieria)

Snake plants thrive on neglect. They require minimal watering and are one of the few plants that convert CO2 into oxygen at night, making them ideal for winter bedrooms.

2. ZZ Plants (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ plant stores water in thick succulent rhizomes under the soil. Because they need so little water, the soil stays dry and inhospitable to mold spores.

3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Pothos is the ultimate “beginner” plant. It is highly expressive; it will tell you when it needs water, making it much harder to accidentally overwater during the dark months.

4 Rules to Protect Your Air Quality This Winter

You don’t need to evict your greenery. You just need to adjust your “plant parent” strategy for the season:

1. The “Half-Water” Rule: Most plants need roughly half the water in winter as they do in summer.
2. The Finger Test: Don’t water on a schedule. Stick your finger two inches into the soil; if it’s damp, walk away.
3. Breathable Containers: Switch moisture-sensitive plants to terracotta pots. The porous clay allows the soil to “breathe” and dry out faster.
4. Clear the Saucers: Never let a plant sit in a drainage saucer full of water. This is a primary source of musty odors.

Pro Tip: If you notice a white, fuzzy film on your soil, scrape it off immediately and sprinkle a little cinnamon (a natural antifungal) on the surface.

A Cozier Home Starts With Drier Soil

Winter comfort is about more than just candles and blankets; it’s about clean, breathable air. By swapping moisture-hungry varieties for winter-resilient ones and easing up on the watering can, you can ensure your “urban jungle” stays a healthy sanctuary all season long.

You're reading Is Your Winter Houseplant Secretly Ruining Your Indoor Air Quality?, originally posted on Decoist. If you enjoyed this post, be sure to follow Decoist on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.

Posted By : Chris A.

The Regency era was a brief but dazzling period in early 19th-century Britain, defined by refined social rituals, soft elegance, and a love of beauty that favored charm over excess. With season 4 of Bridgerton now streaming on Netflix, the pastel palettes, florals, and soft-glam interiors of Regency-era London are back in full force.

And, the good news? You don’t need a palace, a trust fund, or a DIY degree to bring that elegant Bridgerton vibe into your own home. A few thoughtful swaps can do the trick, without drills, renovations, or drama!

Here’s how to channel Regency romance the easy, affordable way.

Think Soft, Not Stuffy: Update Your Color Palette

The Bridgerton look is all about gentle color—powder blues, sage greens, blush pinks, buttery yellows. You don’t need to repaint your walls. Start small: swap throw pillows, table runners, or even bed linens in pastel shades. Linen and cotton textures instantly soften a space and feel light, airy, and romantic without trying too hard.

A single pastel accent can change the entire mood of a room—especially when paired with neutral walls.

Use Fresh Florals for a Casual Regency Touch

Regency interiors loved florals, but that doesn’t mean heavy wallpaper or ornate arrangements. Think fresh or faux flowers in simple vases, scattered naturally around your home. Daisies, roses, peonies, or even grocery-store tulips work beautifully.

For an extra Bridgerton touch, place small arrangements in unexpected spots—on a bedside table, bathroom counter, or kitchen shelf. It feels intentional, but not pretentious.

Add a Touch of Gold (Just a Touch)

Gold accents are everywhere in Bridgerton, but restraint is key. Skip large statement pieces and opt for subtle metallic details:

• A gold-framed mirror
• Brass candlesticks
• Picture frames with a warm finish

These small touches reflect light and add that old-world elegance—without tipping into over-the-top territory.

Choose Lightweight Curtains for a Soft, Romantic Look

You don’t need velvet drapes or custom hardware. Lightweight, sheer curtains instantly give a Regency-inspired softness, especially when they let natural light through. White, cream, or pale pastel sheers are perfect.
If you already have curtains, layering a sheer panel underneath is an easy upgrade that feels luxurious but stays practical.

Books as Decor (Yes, Really)

One of the most underrated Bridgerton details? Books. Stacked novels, poetry collections, or even thrifted hardcovers add instant character. Stack a few on a coffee table or shelf and top them with a small candle or floral accent.
Bonus points if the covers look a little vintage—but don’t stress about it. It’s the feel that counts.

Candlelight = Instant Regency Mood

Candles are the fastest way to recreate that soft, glowing Bridgerton atmosphere. Choose unscented or lightly floral candles in glass or brass holders. Group them in threes on a tray or mantel for a simple but elegant look.
Battery-operated candles work just as well if you want the glow without the worry.

Final Thought: Romance, But Livable

The magic of Bridgerton interiors isn’t about perfection—it’s about warmth, softness, and a hint of indulgence. You can bring Regency charm into your home in a way that still feels modern, cozy, and completely livable by focusing on color, light, texture, and small details.
No ball gowns required—just a little imagination and a love for beautiful spaces.

 

You're reading Netflix’s Bridgerton is Back—Easy Regency-Inspired Home Decor Ideas, originally posted on Decoist. If you enjoyed this post, be sure to follow Decoist on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.

Posted By : Maria

The Japandi bedroom has already earned its place as a modern classic, but in 2026, it’s evolving. The original Japandi look was loved for its calm minimalism, natural materials, and soothing balance between Japanese restraint and Scandinavian warmth. Now, Japandi Bedroom 2.0 takes that foundation and softens it even further, transforming the bedroom into a true sleep sanctuary. This new phase isn’t about perfection or strict minimalism. It’s about comfort, tactility, emotional calm, and spaces that genuinely support rest. Think warmer tones, layered textures, softer lighting, and thoughtful details that feel deeply personal rather than styled. Below are 18 evolved Japandi design ideas that reflect how this aesthetic is being reinterpreted for better sleep, deeper relaxation, and more human living.

1. Softer, Warmer Neutral Palettes

Japandi Bedroom 2.0 moves away from stark whites and cooler greys, leaning instead into warmer, earth-inspired neutrals. Shades like sand, oat, clay, mushroom, and soft taupe create a cocooning atmosphere that immediately signals rest. These colors feel grounded and natural, helping the bedroom feel emotionally calming rather than visually sharp. When layered thoughtfully across walls, bedding, and textiles, warm neutrals blur boundaries and reduce contrast, key for creating a space that supports deep sleep and mental unwinding.

2. Layered Bedding for Comfort, Not Styling

In the evolved Japandi bedroom, bedding is designed for sleep first, aesthetics second. Layers of linen, cotton, wool, and light duvets create a bed that feels inviting and adaptable to different temperatures. Neutral tones dominate, but variation in texture adds interest. Wrinkled linen, softly quilted throws, and breathable fabrics create a relaxed, undone look that feels effortless rather than styled. This approach encourages comfort and routine, key ingredients for better rest.

3. Minimal Decor with Emotional Meaning

Rather than removing décor entirely, Japandi Bedroom 2.0 embraces fewer items with more meaning. A ceramic vessel, a hand-thrown bowl, a framed textile, or a single piece of art adds quiet personality. These objects aren’t chosen to fill space, they’re chosen to connect emotionally. This approach keeps the room deeply personal while maintaining visual calm, reinforcing the idea that rest is supported by emotional comfort as much as physical design.

4. Mix Complementary Wood Tones

Using more than one wood tone adds depth and warmth to a Japandi bedroom without disrupting its calm nature. Instead of matching everything perfectly, blend similar undertones,like light oak with warm ash or soft walnut,to create a layered, natural look. This approach feels more organic and less staged, which suits the Japandi philosophy perfectly. Wood can appear through the bed frame, side tables, shelving, or even ceiling details. When tones are harmonious rather than identical, the bedroom feels richer and more lived-in while still remaining minimal and serene.

5. Layer Textures for a Softer Feel

Texture is what keeps a Japandi bedroom from feeling flat or overly minimal. Layering different textures,linen bedding, wool throws, woven rugs, raw wood, and subtle wall finishes,creates visual interest without adding clutter. The key is restraint: keep the colour palette neutral and let texture do the work. This layered approach adds comfort and warmth, making the bedroom feel inviting rather than stark. Texture also absorbs sound and softens light, both of which help support rest and relaxation, turning the space into a true sleep sanctuary.

6. Maximize Natural Light

Natural light plays a major role in Japandi design, especially in bedrooms meant for rest and recovery. Large windows, sheer curtains, or light-filtering blinds allow daylight to move gently through the room without overwhelming it. Soft morning light helps regulate sleep cycles and makes the space feel calm and grounded. Avoid heavy drapery that blocks light completely during the day. When natural light is treated as a design feature rather than an afterthought, the bedroom feels healthier, more open, and more connected to the rhythms of nature.

7. Edit and Streamline Belongings

A Japandi bedroom thrives on visual clarity, which means being intentional about what stays visible. Streamlining belongings doesn’t mean living without comfort,it means removing distractions that interfere with rest. Keep surfaces clear, store items out of sight, and limit décor to a few meaningful pieces. Built-in storage, under-bed drawers, or concealed wardrobes help maintain order without effort. When the bedroom is free from excess objects, the mind naturally relaxes. This simplicity is one of the most powerful tools for creating a calm, restorative sleep environment.

8. Choose a Low Wooden Bed Frame

A low wooden bed frame is one of the most defining features of a Japandi bedroom. Sitting closer to the ground creates a sense of grounding and stability, which naturally promotes relaxation. Wooden frames add warmth and texture while keeping the design understated and timeless. Opt for simple lines and natural finishes rather than ornate details. A low bed also visually opens up the room, making it feel more spacious and serene. This design choice reinforces the bedroom’s role as a peaceful retreat rather than a decorative showpiece.

9. Introduce Subtle Rustic Touches

Rustic elements can enhance Japandi bedrooms when used thoughtfully and sparingly. The focus should be on natural imperfection rather than heavy country styling. Think hand-thrown ceramics, lightly weathered wood, linen fabrics, or textured plaster walls. These details add character and warmth without overpowering the minimalist aesthetic. Rustic touches help the space feel authentic and grounded, balancing the clean lines of Japandi design. When softened and refined, rustic elements support the calm, human feel that defines a true sleep sanctuary.

10. Integrated Nightstands for Visual Calm

Floating or built-in nightstands help reduce visual clutter around the bed, making the room feel more spacious and serene. Integrated storage allows essentials to be tucked away while keeping surfaces minimal. This design choice supports both aesthetics and function. When fewer objects are visible, the mind naturally relaxes. In Japandi Bedroom 2.0, even bedside areas are designed to feel light, intentional, and distraction-free.

11. Introduce Subtle, Delicate Patterns

In a Japandi bedroom, the pattern should whisper, not shout. Delicate patterns add visual interest without disrupting the calm atmosphere essential for rest. Think fine stripes, soft geometrics, gentle checks, or tonal motifs woven into bedding, rugs, or cushions. These patterns work best when they stay within a muted, neutral palette so they blend rather than contrast. The goal is to create depth and softness, not decoration for its own sake. When patterns are subtle and thoughtfully layered, they enhance the bedroom’s warmth and texture while keeping the space serene and balanced.

12. Add Quiet Interest Through Art

Art in a Japandi bedroom should feel calming, personal, and intentional. Instead of bold statement pieces, choose artwork that supports stillness,minimal line drawings, nature-inspired prints, abstract landscapes, or monochrome photography. One or two well-placed pieces are enough to add character without overwhelming the space. Natural materials like wood frames, linen canvases, or handmade paper align beautifully with the Japandi aesthetic. Art here isn’t meant to energise; it’s meant to ground the room emotionally, making the bedroom feel complete, thoughtful, and quietly expressive.

13. Tactile Rugs That Quiet the Space

A tactile rug does far more than add visual softness to a Japandi bedroom,it changes how the room feels and sounds. Natural fibre rugs made from wool, cotton, or jute blends help absorb noise and reduce echo, creating a quieter, more restful environment. This is especially important in bedrooms, where calm acoustics support better sleep. Choose rugs with subtle texture rather than bold patterns, and keep the colour palette warm and neutral. Placed beneath the bed or in a seating area, a tactile rug anchors the room and adds comfort without disrupting the minimalist aesthetic.

14. Add a Single Sculptural Decor Piece

In Japandi design, less is always more,especially when it comes to décor. A single sculptural object can add depth, character, and artistry without overwhelming the space. Think of a hand-thrown ceramic vase, a carved wooden object, or a softly shaped stone piece placed on a bedside table or shelf. This approach allows the object to stand on its own rather than compete with others. When chosen thoughtfully, one sculptural element brings quiet personality into the bedroom, making the space feel intentional, grounded, and emotionally warm without visual clutter.

15. Use Rounded Furniture Edges

Rounded furniture edges introduce softness into a Japandi bedroom, balancing the clean lines that define the style. Curved headboards, rounded nightstands, or gently shaped benches feel more organic and calming than sharp angles. These forms reflect natural shapes found in Japanese and Scandinavian design, helping the room feel more fluid and welcoming. Rounded edges also improve comfort and safety, especially in smaller spaces. When used subtly, curved furniture enhances the sense of flow in the bedroom, supporting a more relaxed and restful atmosphere ideal for a sleep sanctuary.

16. Use Built-In Wardrobes for Visual Calm

Built-in wardrobes are one of the most effective ways to maintain visual calm in a Japandi bedroom. By integrating storage seamlessly into the architecture, wardrobes blend into the background rather than drawing attention. Flat-panel doors, handle-less designs, and soft neutral finishes keep the room feeling open and uncluttered. This hidden storage approach allows clothing and belongings to be stored out of sight, reducing visual noise that can interfere with rest. A bedroom with clean lines and minimal distractions naturally feels more peaceful, reinforcing its role as a place for relaxation and sleep.

17. Use Natural Materials

Natural materials are the backbone of a Japandi bedroom because they create a calm, grounded atmosphere that supports rest. Wood, linen, cotton, wool, clay, and stone introduce warmth and tactility without visual clutter. These materials age beautifully and feel honest, which aligns with both Japanese and Scandinavian design philosophies. In a bedroom, natural materials help soften acoustics, regulate temperature, and make the space feel more breathable. Whether it’s a wooden bed frame, linen bedding, or a wool rug underfoot, these elements work quietly together to create a sleep environment that feels balanced, timeless, and deeply restorative.

18. Incorporating Greenery

Greenery adds a gentle sense of life to a Japandi bedroom without disturbing its calm aesthetic. One or two thoughtfully placed plants can soften hard lines and reinforce the connection to nature that defines the style. Choose plants with simple, sculptural forms and muted green tones rather than busy or overly decorative varieties. A floor plant near a window or a small potted plant on a shelf is often enough. Greenery should feel intentional and effortless, acting as a natural accent that enhances tranquillity rather than drawing attention away from rest.

Wrap-Up

A Japandi bedroom is ultimately about creating a space that feels calm, grounded, and genuinely restorative. By blending natural materials, soft textures, thoughtful lighting, and restrained décor, this evolved approach focuses less on strict minimalism and more on comfort and emotional ease. Each design choice works together to support better sleep and slower living, turning the bedroom into a true sanctuary. For readers of Home Designing, this guide highlights how intentional design can quietly improve everyday life. When simplicity, warmth, and balance come together, the bedroom becomes more than a place to sleep,it becomes a space to truly unwind.

Posted By Tahira