Get inspired by these innovative design ideas from Fixer Upper co-host and Magnolia owner, Joanna Gaines, who has an undisputed eye for style.
1. Maximizing Small Spaces
View this post on Instagram
In an episode of Fixer Upper, Joanna Gaines shared her counterintuitive approach to designing smaller areas of homes. She revealed that while people often choose smaller furniture for tighter spaces, it’s best to do the opposite. While many advocate for space-saving furniture in small rooms, Gaines boldly uses the biggest sofa possible. According to her, one or two large items, when used thoughtfully, create the illusion of a bigger space. Conversely, too many small decor or furniture pieces can make a small space look cluttered.
2. Bringing Black Sofas Back
Black sofas, a staple in the 90’s, are making a comeback thanks to Joanna Gaines. Seeing the once outdated trend return to the mainstream is both surprising and refreshing.
Not only black sofas but sofas in darker hues can be easily spotted in her latest designs, which are worth taking inspiration from. It’s no exaggeration to say that she has surpassed current sofa trends. Exercise caution when introducing a black sofa into your living space. Overusing black can be draining and make a space feel confined. Strike a balance by pairing it with light neutral tones, just as Gaines has done in her designs. Incorporate some greenery through air-purifying indoor plants to create your own contemplative oasis.
3. Heirlooms & Antiques
View this post on Instagram
The use of heirlooms and antiques is very easy to spot in Joanna Gaines designs. She uses them as “inspirational pieces” and treats them as focal points.
In media interviews, she has shared that going antique shopping at off-the-beaten-path shops and flea markets is one of her favorite things to do. She says, “I always get inspired when I see pieces from the past.”
If you want to add uniqueness to your space, take inspiration from Joanna’s interest and incorporate antiques and heirlooms into your decor. These aren’t mass-produced items which makes them special.
4. Add Dimension to Plain Spaces
In a TikTok video, Joanna Gaines can be seen renovating a simple all-white room. She transforms it into a serene dining room by adding dimension to parts of the room. In the video, Gaines shares, “Don’t have time to replace the door, so just added a little bit of trim here so when we paint it, it has a little bit of dimension.” She upgraded the ceiling with 1 x 2 and 1 x 6 pieces of wood to add a high-low pattern, resulting in dimension and interest in the otherwise plain space.
5. Scalloped Pieces
Scallops attract attention and instantly elevate simple decor. Gaines considers them “timeless motifs”. So, if you want decor pieces that stand the test of time, add scallops to your home. They can be used on the rims of plates, edges of mirrors, shelves, and rugs. According to the 2024 summer issue of Joanna Gaines’ Magnolia Journal, she finds herself returning to this whimsical style more than ever while working on home and product design. The renowned designer attributes her obsession with scallops to their nostalgic shapes and cheerful aesthetic. It’s safe to say that Gaines’ 2024 is engulfed by scallops.
6. Transformation with Rugs
View this post on Instagram
When you don’t have enough time or money to change the entire flooring, rugs can come to the rescue. Joanna has said that investing in a large area rug is still cheaper than installing new hardwood floors, especially for mini-renovations. If your floor is outdated long ago, cover it with rugs of your choice. Experiment with the textures, colors, and patterns that complement your room decor.
To check out Joanna’s Classic Design Ideas of All times, watch this video:
References
- 12 Incredible Home Decor Tips From Joanna Gaines, Bestlifeonline, Written by Kali Coleman
- Joanna Gaines’ latest ‘Fixer Upper’ project has revitalized an outdated sofa trend for 2024, and it looks better than ever, Homesandgardens, Written by Jennifer Ebert
- Joanna Gaines shares the secret to maximizing your small living room, Realhomes, Written by Millie Hurst
- Joanna Gaines Will Convince You to Bring Back This Dated Living Room Trend, Apartmenttherapy, Written by Olivia Harvey
