The world of interior design has always evolved with the times, but today’s broader societal trends are shaping it more than ever. Technology, for instance, has become an integral part of modern homes, with a wide range of smart features now easily managed through mobile apps. At the same time, the rise of aging baby boomers has transformed senior living, with more homes incorporating lifestyle amenities that allow people to age comfortably in place. Condominiums continue to grow in popularity, while the overall footprint of many single-family homes has become more compact. Although these larger trends aren’t always top of mind when thinking about interior design, they play an important role in shaping today’s living environments.
Fortunately, the interior design industry continues to thrive, offering an ever-expanding array of fabric textures, styles, and color palettes—from wall coverings and furniture to draperies and flooring. There are more options available today than ever before. Best of all, refreshing a space doesn’t have to be expensive. Simple updates like changing accessories, upgrading lighting fixtures, or even swapping out basic switch plates for something more colorful and unique can instantly brighten a room without a significant investment.
When it comes to making changes, the size and scope of a project should guide your approach. I often encourage clients to take small, thoughtful steps rather than rushing into one major overhaul. After all, these are choices you’ll live with for years. Testing is key—especially with paint. Try different shades in various areas of a room and observe how they look throughout the day, from morning light to evening shadows, and even on cloudy days. A color that initially seems perfect can feel completely different under changing light conditions. It’s far easier to rethink a small test patch than an entire room that’s already been painted or wallpapered. Many suppliers offer samples you can take home, making it easy to experiment and refine your preferences. As you narrow down your choices, an interior designer can help source the right materials and guide you toward achieving your desired look.
One recent project perfectly illustrates this approach. A client wanted to update her guest bathroom, where the existing elements simply didn’t work together. The dark wood cabinet clashed with the gray shower tile, gray toilet, and gray-toned flooring, while the dark blue walls felt disconnected from the rest of the space. The plan was to repaint the walls, refinish the cabinet, and install a new countertop, while keeping the existing tile and fixtures.
Initially, the homeowner considered painting the cabinet a cream color, but after testing several samples, it became clear that cream wasn’t the right fit. Attention then turned to shades of gray, and after trying a few options, a soft dove gray emerged as the perfect choice. Once selected, the rest of the project came together quickly. The cabinet was refinished, new hardware was installed, and a new Kohler sink and faucet were added. A granite remnant provided an affordable yet elegant countertop solution, and updated accessories completed the transformation. It was a great example of how layering design elements—where one decision builds on the next—can bring a space together efficiently and beautifully.
At Double G Interiors, we believe in taking those small, intentional steps and experimenting with color and design to find what truly works. Once a clear direction is established, a room can come to life faster than you might expect.
This article is from the
EY April 2026 Issue