Episode Summary

This episode of Seated with Furniture Row unpacks the heart of cottagecore, from fairy-tale cottages and heirloom china to wicker benches. Barb and Jessa explore why this cozy, layered aesthetic is having a moment, how to infuse charm into any space (big or small), and which Furniture Row finds can bring instant storybook magic to your home. Whether you're after whimsical maximalism or minimalist warmth, they’ve got ideas that will inspire your next cozy corner.

What you’ll learn (with timestamps)

00:00 — Why Cottagecore now? A cozy rebellion against hustle culture and a return to slower living

02:00 — The cottage image quiz: Movie and pop-culture cottages we can’t stop dreaming about

05:00 — What “cottage” really means: Small, rural, cozy—and why it’s less about square footage and more about feeling

08:00 — Cottagecore for any home: How even large or builder-grade houses can feel charming and lived-in

09:45 — Shelf life: Open shelving, flour jars, garlic braids, and displayed tools that tell your story

14:50 — Light it right: Bookcase lamps, battery bulbs, and lighting tricks for cottage warmth

16:45 — Heirloom hacks: From quilts to china cabinets to iceboxes—how to make them feel current

21:30 — Create a café corner: How a cozy coffee shop vibe can work in your own kitchen nook

25:45 — Hygge, year-round: Embracing seasonal rituals like bowls of fruit, fresh flowers, and little comforts

29:10 — Cottagecore vs. Farmhouse vs. Shabby Chic: Key differences in aesthetic, mood, and effort

35:30 — The bench manifesto: Why every cottagecore home needs one (or three)

42:30 — DIY ideas that work: Glass-door lining, wallpapered cabinet backs, and styled cake stands

49:50 — The final word on pattern and palette: How to layer plaid, florals, and paisleys by scale

53:30 — It’s all about story: Cottagecore isn’t curated overnight—it’s built piece by piece, moment by moment

Quick tips

Start with one anchor: a bench, tufted headboard, or distressed cabinet to set the tone.

Shelf tips: Layer storied tools (cutting boards, mortar and pestle, jars of dry goods) on open shelves to “show the life you live”.

Add a tiny lamp to shelves or counters; use battery bulbs to avoid cords and outlets.

Mix old and new: modern carts with antiques, brand-new finds with patina finishes.

Pattern-mix by scale: pair larger plaids with small florals or fine motifs for balanced cozy.

Featured hosts

Barb Chandler — Interior Designer, Furniture Row

Jessa Murphy — Marketing Director, Furniture Row

 

Calls to action

Follow and rate Seated with Furniture Row  to help others find the show.

Explore cottage furniture and accents at Furniture Row, and learn more about cottage style on our blog!

Visit Furniture Row showroom near you to explore benches, tufted beds, spindle chairs, distressed storage, wicker baskets, and more.

Tired of the “big, ugly light”? In this episode of Seated with Furniture Row, Interior Designer Barb and Marketing Director Jessa break down everything you really need to know about lighting your home. From color temperature (Kelvins) to brightness (lumens), they share the basics in plain English—and offer creative, renter-friendly solutions that don’t require an electrician. Learn how to layer ambient, task, and accent lighting for a space that feels cozy, functional, and totally elevated.

You’ll hear why cooler lights help you focus (think kitchens and offices), and why warmer tones create calm in bedrooms and living rooms. Plus, genius lighting hacks: battery-powered sconces, dimmer switches, rope lighting, and even a floor lamp that fakes built-in style.

Key Topics 

00:00 – Intro: Why lighting is confusing—and critical to how a room feels

03:00 – In or Out: Edison bulbs, track lighting, colored lights

07:30 – Meet the villain: The big, ugly overhead light

07:45 – Layered lighting basics: ambient, task, accent

12:45 – Bulb temperature (Kelvins): warm vs. cool and where to use each

15:10 – Brightness (lumens) vs. watts: what really matters now

28:05 – Room-by-room tips: Living room, dining, bedroom, kitchen, bath

48:50 – Lighting label cheat sheet: What to check before you buy

Quick Tips Mentioned

Try relaxing, warm light in bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms

Use cooler light in kitchens, offices, and garages for focus and visibility.

Add dimmers wherever you can—for instant mood control.

Don’t rely on overheads! Add floor lamps, table lamps, sconces, art lights.

Amber-tinted glass and bulbs can cozy up any space.

Featured Hosts

Barb Chandler – Interior Designer at Furniture Row

Jessa Murphy – Marketing Director at Furniture Row

They bring design savvy, practical tips, and lots of personality to every episode.

Resources Mentioned

Furniture Row blog: Best Lighting: A Room-by-Room Guide

Related episodes: Productivity and Interior Design, Expert Tips for Styling Outdoor Spaces

Furniture Row Bookshelf Lamps: Caged Wood Accent Lamp | Furniture Row ,Luke Dark Grey Antique Table Lamp | Furniture Row ,Bell Jar Table Lamp | Furniture Row, Antler with Smoke Glass Table Lamp | Furniture Row

Furniture Row Bedside table task lighting- Minneapolis Pier Bookcase Nightstand, Minneapolis Nightstand, St. Paul Nightstand, St. Paul Bookcase Pier Nightstand

Ceiling Lights for Low Ceilings:

Stewart Semi-Flush Mount ,Elsbeth Semi-Flush Mount | Rejuvenation, Snowflower Semi-Flush Mount

Indoor Uplight Accent Lighting: Black Cord-n-Plug Accent Uplight with Foot Switch - #63402 | Lamps Plus

 

Calls to Action

Follow Seated with Furniture Row and rate the show to help others find it.

Want more styling tips for every room? Visit our blog!

Visit a Furniture Row showroom near you to explore lamps, pendants, and more.

Area rugs do more than decorate—they define zones, protect floors, and pull a room together. In this episode, Barb and Jessa break down how to pick the right rug by material and construction, how to size and place rugs for living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms, when to consider washable options, and clever layering and cleaning tips. Plus: what “knot count” really means, why dining rooms deserve bigger rugs, and the easy placement rules designers actually use.

What You’ll Learn 

00:00 Welcome + Why rugs feel “controversial,” what rugs do for a room, and a fun myth-busting icebreaker.

08:55 Where to start: picking style and color to match (or lead) a room’s palette; visualize before buying.

13:54 Rug terminology: knots, pile height, rug pads—pros/cons and when to replace.

20:26 What makes a quality rug: natural vs. synthetic fibers, dye methods (solution-dyed), knot/point count, handwoven vs. machine-made.

26:36 What to avoid by room: why shag is a no for dining rooms; motion furniture pitfalls; wool shedding realities.

31:00 Fiber guide: wool, jute, cotton, bamboo, nylon, polyester, polypropylene, acrylic, viscose, and silk.

35:32 Layouts that work: expert advice on rug placement in living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, and offices.

43:40 Budget tips and layering rules: how to layer to “size up”, solid + pattern, when to square vs. angle.

48:01 Cleaning and care: spot-clean method, when to hose-wash, drying tips, what to leave to pros.

 

Guest/Hosts

Hosts: Barb Chandler (Interior Designer), Jessa Murphy (Marketing Director).

 

Resources and Links

Read the companion blog: Area Rugs: Dos and Don’ts (Furniture Row blog)

Shop area rugs and washable rugs at Furniture Row (living room, dining room, bedroom, office, and more)

Subscribe to Seated with Furniture Row on Spotify, YouTube, or anywhere you get podcasts for weekly design tips.

Follow  Furniture Row on Instagram for behind-the-scenes and quick how‑tos.

Have a design question? Drop it in the comments for a future episode!

Working from home can either energize the day—or drain it—depending on how your space is designed. In this episode of Seated with Furniture Row, Interior Designer Barb Chandler and Marketing Director Jessa Murphy break down how comfort‑first home office design can boost focus, reduce decision fatigue, and make work feel a little easier. 

 

Learn how to layer task and ambient lighting, choose calming color/texture palettes, and use biophilic elements for stress relief and sustained energy. They also share quick wins like cable management, surface resets, and storage moves that keep the desk clear and the mind clear. Whether setting up a new workspace or refreshing a corner of the living room, this episode delivers quick wins and long‑term upgrades to help get more done—comfortably.

 

What You’ll Learn

00:00 – Why comfort‑first design improves focus and reduces decision fatigue.

03:30 – Ergonomics 101: seat height, lumbar support, armrests, footrests.

07:30 – Desk decisions: writing vs. L‑shaped vs. sit‑stand, choosing for workflow.

12:00 – Layout for flow: zones, storage that keeps surfaces clear, cable management.

16:30 – Lighting layers: task vs. ambient, color temperature for alertness.

20:00 – Sound and scent: soft materials, white noise, subtle aromatics.

24:00 – Color, texture, and materials for calm energy.

27:30 – Greenery and views: biophilic elements for stress reduction.

 

Guest/Hosts

Hosts: Barb Chandler (Interior Designer), Jessa Murphy (Marketing Director).

 

Resources & Links

Follow for episode clips and reels on Instagram.

Explore ergonomic office chairs, sit‑stand desks, task lamps, and storage solutions.

Related episodes: Outdoor Styling Tips; Millennial Gray Refresh.

Explore more design tips and episode extras on The Front Door by Furniture Row.

Related Blog Posts: Best Lighting: A Room By Room Guide, 4 Easy Steps to Create a Homework Space They'll Love

You can take the same quiz that Barb and Jessa Used to find out your productivity style with this Harvard Business Review Quiz

Welcome back to Seated with Furniture Row! In this episode, Barb and Jessa take you inside the St. Jude Dream Home in Colorado Springs to explore one of today's hottest interior trends: organic modern design.

 

What You’ll Learn:

 

How to Use Neutral Palettes with Pops of Color

Embrace calming neutrals for walls and main furniture.

Add excitement and personality with touches of mossy green, sapphire blue velvet, or terracotta accents.

Organic Modern Design Inspiration for Any Space

See how architectural curves, arches, and contemporary details create rooms that are fresh, modern, and comfortable.

Discover the power of functional accessories—from bar carts to 3D art—that help bring an organic, lived-in vibe to any home.

Barb and Jessa’s Top Organic Modern Tips

Choose a calming neutral base and layer in nature-inspired colors like rich blues, earthy ochre, deep greens, terracotta, and subtle browns for a relaxed, elevated look.

Don’t be afraid to mix tactile elements and organic shapes for that signature “modern but grounded” feel.

And more!

 

Real-Life Collaboration

Learn about the partnership between Furniture Row and local builders to craft a Dream Home that’s modern, timeless, and appeals to a wide range of styles.

Find out how their efforts help raise over $1 million annually for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Curious about next year’s Dream Home? Visitors can win the house itself—plus a $10,000 shopping spree to create your own organically modern oasis.

Follow along with this episode on our Blog for organic modern home and room design inspiration

Read about Grace Covington’s Modern Organic home design for the 2025 Colorado Springs St. Jude Home here. https://www.furniturerow.com/blog/tour-the-2025-st-jude-dream-home-chic-modern-style-in-colorado-springs

Tune in for inspired ideas and expert tips on how to bring the organic modern look into your home—only on Seated with Furniture Row!

Join Jessa, Creative Director, and Barb, Interior Designer & Buyer, as they dive into the standout styles from the Spring High Point Market—one of the world’s largest furniture and home décor trade shows. This episode is your insider guide to what’s shaping interior design for 2025, straight from industry tastemakers and trend forecasters.

If you aren't already to see the visuals in this episode, make sure to tune into the YouTube Episode:

Seated with Furniture Row YouTube

Key 2025 Interior Design Trends You Will Hear About

Scallops & Curves

Expect to see scalloped edges and flowing curves on tables, rugs, and upholstery. This style is evolving from the ongoing love for curves, now adding rhythm and movement to spaces.

Checkerboard Patterns

Both classic and abstract checkerboard designs are resurging—appearing on flooring, tile work, and textiles for a bold yet timeless effect.

Skirted Details

Furniture with skirted bases is returning, adding softness and a hint of nostalgia while fitting seamlessly into both modern and eclectic settings.

Vintage Mixed with Modern

Combining vintage pieces (like cane chairs and traditional cabinetry) with streamlined, contemporary silhouettes. Expect classic forms updated for 2025 living.

Banquettes

Built-in or mix-and-match banquette seating is on the rise, making kitchens, breakfast nooks, and dining rooms more inviting and communal.

Mocha Mousse: 2025 Color of the Year

This rich, neutral brown is prominent—often seen in color-drenched rooms and paired with clay or seafoam tones for grounded, calming interiors.

Florals

Botanical prints and floral patterns are having a significant moment. Designers are mixing florals with stripes and checks and varying scales for dynamic visuals.

Yellows & Ochre

Sofas and accent pieces in ochre and gold add vibrancy, pairing well with neutral palettes and jewel tones.

Bouclé & “Doodle” Fabrics

Tactile fabrics like bouclé and faux shearling are cozy, stylish, and now more durable thanks to performance weaves.

Caning & Rattan

Woven cane derived from the rattan plant is featured on chairs, bookcases, and even accessories—celebrated for its natural look and light-filtering properties.

Clunk Factor

Look for chunky, robust pieces—whether in table bases, chairs, or decorative accents—that make a bold and tactile impression.

Nautical & Coastal Elements

Subtle updates on coastal decor: think oyster and clam shell shapes, rope accents, and marine motifs for an elevated take on nautical vibes.

Subtle Textures and Tactile Experiences

Subtle woven textures and small-scale patterns add depth and are easy to mix with bolder prints. Art and decor are embracing tactile experiences like embroidery and fiberwork.

Organic Modern

Using natural shapes and materials (like collaged tree-trunk tables and organic shaped mirrors), this style merges nature-inspired aesthetics with contemporary forms.

Dopamine Decor

Aka, “joyful decorating”—using bold color, pattern, and personal touches to maximize happiness and individuality in your home.

Mondo Fabric (Oversized Corduroy Effect)

Maximalist, plush, channeled pieces are trending—but experts advise to use them sparingly to avoid overwhelming spaces.

Mix and Match: Don’t feel confined to a single trend; layered, personal, and eclectic spaces are in.

Trend Prediction: Jersey Fabrics

Sporty, breathable jersey textiles are emerging, especially in accent furniture and pillows, bringing a casual and sensory appeal.

 

Mentioned in this Episode:

High Point Market

Printemps

In this episode of Seated with Furniture Row, Barb and Jessa dive into the world of coastal interior design microtrends to unpack some of the new styles making waves in this seaside space. They explore what sets coastal, nautical, and fisherman-inspired looks apart, and share practical tips for bringing a relaxed, seaside vibe into any space—whether you live by the ocean or just want to capture its spirit. From classic “coastal grandmother” pastels to the playful, colorful touches of sardine-core, to the rustic character-filled fisherman aesthetic, this episode is packed with inspiration, product ideas, and easy ways to update your home with the essence of the ocean... or the lake.

What You’ll Learn:

Defining Today’s Trending Coastal Style:

-Key elements that distinguish coastal, nautical, and fisherman-inspired interiors

-How to blend these looks for a space that feels both timeless and on-trend

-The influence of fashion and travel on these design trends

Decorating Tips & DIY Ideas:

-Actionable advice for adding coastal touches like rope accents, weathered wood, and maritime motifs

-Creative DIY projects and product picks to personalize your space

-Ideas for creating “third spaces” and using playful, food-inspired decor

Balancing Trends with Timelessness:

-Tips for adding trend-driven elements (like sardine-core or dopamine decor) without overwhelming your space

-How to mix seasonal and year-round coastal decor for a look that lasts

-Discussion on the longevity and evolution of microtrends in interior design

Product List:

Welcome to Seated with Furniture Row! In this episode, Barb and Jessa tackle the most talked-about trend in home design: Millennial Gray. Discover why this cool, neutral color took over homes in the 2010s and why so many people are now looking to break free from the all-gray look. Whether you’re living in a builder-grade home, renting, or just tired of the same old palette, our design experts share actionable, budget-friendly tips to bring personality and warmth back into your space.

 

What You’ll Learn

 

The Rise of Millennial Gray:

Why gray became the go-to color for millennials and home builders.

The psychology behind choosing gray: neutrality, resale value, and the desire for a blank canvas.

How Millennial Gray evolved from a minimalist trend to a design cliché.

 

Easy Ways to Refresh a Gray Room:

Add colorful curtains, drapes, and throw pillows to instantly brighten your space.

Use accent chairs, rugs, and art to break up monochromatic walls.

Incorporate greenery—real or faux plants—to soften cold tones and add life.

Layer different textures and patterns for a cozy, curated look.

Tips for matching wood tones and structural elements to complement existing gray.

Lighting hacks: swap out bulbs, get dimmer lighting, or add layered lighting for instant warmth.

 

Choosing Accent Colors:

Why you don’t have to stick to just one accent color—mix blues, greens, and metallics for a modern, inviting vibe.

How to pull accent colors from favorite objects, art, or even kitchen appliances.

Welcome back to Seated with Furniture Row! In this episode, our design experts Barb and Jessa return to the great outdoors for a lively conversation about backyard etiquette, affordable outdoor hacks, and the best ways to add personality to your patio or yard. Whether you’re dreaming of a summer sanctuary or just want to be a good neighbor, this episode is packed with real-life tips, clever DIYs, and inspiring stories from staging the iconic St. Jude Dream Homes.

 

What You’ll Learn

 

Backyard Etiquette & What to Avoid

How to keep the peace with neighbors: tips on managing noise from lawn mowers, power tools, and music.

Why being mindful of your surroundings can boost your own happiness—and your neighborhood’s!

The debate over plastic in the yard: pros, cons, and stylish alternatives to single-use plastics and astroturf.

 

Money-Saving Outdoor Hacks

Easy DIY projects: turn terracotta pots into bird baths, wrap rope around plastic planters for a high-end look, and upcycle thrifted glassware for outdoor entertaining.

Crafting on a budget: how to reuse, repaint, and repurpose for maximum impact without breaking the bank.

Fun, affordable games like cornhole to bring people together and add excitement to your space.

 

Design Inspiration from St. Jude Dream Homes

Behind-the-scenes stories: how Barb and the Furniture Row team stage show-stopping outdoor spaces for the annual St. Jude Dream Home events.

Tips on choosing versatile furniture, using vertical space, and incorporating unexpected finds.

Arc thrift stores

https://arcthrift.com/stores#find-store

Colorado Cornhole Connection

https://www.coloradocornholeconnection.com/?page=2

Chairs that Barb and Jessa are Sitting in: Flowood Outdoor Chairs

https://www.furniturerow.com/pd/Flowood-Patio-Sofa/f3f15b28-8cae-476e-84ac-bd9f8316ee3a?s=flowood

 

Grandpa's Weeder tool at ACE Hardware

Black Beauty Grass Seed

 

AI Prompt For Outdoor Decorating

AI Prompt Jessa Used: Give me a creative porch design including planters and patio furniture with a Rhode Island aesthetic. 

 

Your fill in the blank AI design:  "Give me a creative _______ design including _______ and ________ with a __________ aesthetic"

Press enter for list of directions 

Select “tools” and then “Create an Image”

Welcome to Seated with Furniture Row! In this summer episode, our lead interior designer and marketing manager dive into the hottest outdoor space styling tips for every home—whether you have a tiny apartment balcony, a cozy porch, a medium-sized patio, or a sprawling backyard. Discover how to turn any space into a relaxing oasis with the latest patio decor ideas, functional furniture, and on-trend accessories.

 

What You’ll Learn:

 

Outdoor Decor Tips for Small Spaces:

Learn how to maximize a small front porch or apartment balcony with smart color choices, space-saving accent chairs, ottomans, and stylish welcome mats. Discover the power of greenery, vertical planters, and round shapes to create a welcoming entrance.

 

Patio Styling for Medium Decks & Patios:

Get expert advice on incorporating umbrellas, shade sails, and privacy screens for comfort and seclusion. Find out how to use three-piece patio sets, bar stools, and egg chairs to add both function and flair. Plus, simple lighting tricks—like solar string lights and globe lights—to boost evening ambiance.

 

Backyard Design Ideas for Large Yards:

Explore ways to divide your backyard into inviting zones with outdoor rugs, dining tables, and conversation areas. See how fire pits, garden tables, and water features can elevate your outdoor living experience. Tips on using lighting, like globe lights in trees, to create a magical nighttime retreat.

 

Bonus Summer Decor Hacks:

How to use outdoor storage for throws and pillows

Selecting weather-resistant furniture and fabrics

Creating a “spa yard” vibe with fountains, bird baths, and fresh floral accents

Pest control solutions for a comfortable, bug-free summer

Chairs that Barb and Jessa are Sitting in: Flowood Outdoor Chairs

https://www.furniturerow.com/pd/Flowood-Patio-Sofa/f3f15b28-8cae-476e-84ac-bd9f8316ee3a?s=flowood

 

Coolaroo

https://www.coolaroousa.com/

 

Citronella Tiki Torches

Glass

classic bamboo

 

Medium Spaces Patio Products

Floriana 3 Pc Patio Bar Set

https://www.furniturerow.com/pd/Floriana-3-Pc-Patio-Bar-Set/df8d1a8c-e74b-4ab7-8374-47b9fe3b2ab3

 

Aerodyne End Table

https://www.furniturerow.com/pd/Aerodyne-End-Table/f94f0b11-09a4-4183-92a8-a134fa59dae0

 

Arvada 3. Pc. Patio Set

https://www.furniturerow.com/pd/Arivaca-3-Pc-Patio-Set/a51bef1a-3414-46f3-b128-a8d98eee36e0

 

Luray Hanging Basket Chair

https://www.furniturerow.com/pd/Luray-Hanging-Basket-Chair/8d61ee9f-30c9-4a95-82b5-1b41959dad0d

 

Link to Solar Cafe Lights from Amazon

 

Large Spaces Patio Products

 

Moclips 5. Pc. Patio Dining Set

https://www.furniturerow.com/pd/Moclips-5-Pc-Patio-Dining-Set/ba76a945-4313-43a8-951d-09ab97b6964b?s=Moclips

 

Tarpon Springs Patio Coffee Table

https://www.furniturerow.com/pd/Tarpon-Springs-Patio-Coffee-Table/8b54327d-956c-40be-9465-a3b6ebb6fb9e

 

Sylma Patio Chair

https://www.furniturerow.com/pd/Sylma-Patio-Chair/773bdfa8-da71-4465-a704-d9096e05d3fc

 

Waldport 2. Pc. Patio Sectional

https://www.furniturerow.com/pd/Waldport-2-Pc-Patio-Sectional/2cd7351b-c21a-40f2-9768-4985c4030238

 

Trencher Ottoman Tray

https://www.furniturerow.com/pd/Trencher-Ottoman-Tray/99166922-1e18-4424-a0ff-d7b1db79d8e0

 

Link to Hanging Solar Lantern Lights

Link to Wireless Rock Speaker

https://www.amazon.com/Kawaya-Waterproof-USB-Charging-Shatterproof-Solar-Power/dp/B0DT4GP1CM/ref=sr_1_9?crid=2LVJXA0ZX2VIN&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fptzEe0kfuqfGBX3ZpXXU34IofflP9p6tm-Kf0g_VthdB4kQ3bfXmxvNgsLbRnoNTIweQZWO-kTCvq3IfZX5cRR2TN4tjcNRUpgJoXDPL5mAqj-DZ5oQb2ucN1FC8Eht4Uq3Wja6FT8C8UrfnQ96mnjhLMuNkbn8Gd2MBnxBHOD3wqsZBerHXH0uxZ0rHm3qU5Lr1STFLK6mFZkZqVRVyRcH6fzFWiDJvsqAGjByo_zaFO8Xc2ut6X28mut9YE0HtAFuq11P9RIJsyckDXg10mgkHSxF6ZfAq1Ga0BXrIBE.g__xpOgozqUT0rgN-

LNkyRGguQZhCPSGCP0HkgsdNlw&dib_tag=se&keywords=kawaya%2Boutdoor%2Bstring%2Blights&qid=1751827150&sprefix=kawaya%2B%2Caps%2C253&sr=8-9&th=1]Link to 100ft Solar String Lights