October is here, and while much of the country is enjoying crisp fall air, here in Phoenix, we’re still cranking the AC! But that doesn’t mean we can’t embrace the seasonal shift in our homes. As a luxury interior designer in Phoenix, Arizona, this time of year always inspires me to rethink spaces and bring a sense of cohesiveness to the home. One key area I love to focus on in the fall is the great room, with its seamless transition into the kitchen and dining area. These spaces should complement each other, creating a flow that feels both inviting and beautifully intentional.
Styling Tip: Creating a Cohesive Great Room, Kitchen, and Dining Area
When designing these open-concept spaces, it’s all about balance. You want each room to have its own identity, but also share common threads to tie them together. Start with a neutral base—soft whites, creams, greiges work well for walls and larger furniture pieces. From there, pick a color palette that will flow across all spaces.
For example, you might introduce warm wood tones in the kitchen cabinetry and extend that through the dining room with a rustic wooden table, echoed in smaller pieces like side tables or shelving in the great room. Add pops of seasonal color—burnt orange, , warm browns, deep navy, or olive green—through throw pillows, area rugs, or kitchen linens.
Lighting is another key element. A statement chandelier above the dining table can work in harmony with pendant lighting over your kitchen island, while softer floor or table lamps bring warmth to the great room. Look for pieces with complementary finishes, like brass or matte black, to ensure continuity. Stay tuned for more details later this month, where we’ll be sharing tips and insights on selecting the perfect lighting for your kitchen and dining spaces.
Travel Highlight: Dallas, Texas
This September, I had the pleasure of visiting Dallas, Texas, and it quickly became a source of inspiration for my fall design palette. One of the highlights of my trip was staying at a gem of a property, the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek. It is truly a place full of beauty and charm, with tons of design inspiration in every corner. If you're planning a trip to Dallas, I highly recommend this stunning hotel. From its grand, timeless architecture to its luxurious and intimate ambiance, the Rosewood Mansion captures the essence of elegance, making it a perfect retreat.
During my stay, I also took the opportunity to explore some of the city’s most beautiful neighborhoods. Strolling through Highland Park and Turtle Creek, I was mesmerized by the gorgeous homes, each with unique architectural details and lush landscaping. The grand windows, pristine gardens, and thoughtfully designed facades were a feast for the eyes, and filled me with fresh inspiration for my upcoming projects.
Dining Highlight: Sadelle’s at Highland Park Village
Of course, no trip is complete without indulging in the local culinary scene, and Dallas did not disappoint! One of my favorite meals was at Sadelle’s in Highland Park Village. If you’re in town, this is a must-visit. Their breakfast was an absolute standout—the best I’ve had in a long time. I highly recommend their bagels and smoked salmon, paired with a warm cinnamon latte. The ambiance at Sadelle’s is bright and airy, the perfect backdrop for a leisurely morning meal.
Monthly Drink Recipe: Blood Orange & Cinnamon Sparkler
With the weather cooling down, I love creating a refreshing, autumn-inspired mocktail to sip on while enjoying a cozy evening at home. This Blood Orange & Cinnamon Sparkler is full of rich, seasonal flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
Drink Ingredients:
1/2 cup blood orange juice
1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
1/4 teaspoon ginger root powder
1 tablespoon organic raw honey
2 sprigs of fresh rosemary (1 for garnish)
Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Ginger ale to top
Ice
Instructions:
In a shaker, combine blood orange juice, turmeric powder, ginger root powder, organic raw honey, and a sprig of fresh rosemary. Let the rosemary infuse for a minute before shaking vigorously.
Fill a glass with ice and pour the infused mixture over the ice.
Top with ginger ale and gently stir to combine all flavors.
Garnish with the second sprig of rosemary and, if desired, a few mint leaves for a fresh aromatic finish.
This mocktail is a luxurious blend of citrus and spice, perfect for elevating your home entertaining or enjoying after a long day. The vibrant flavors pair beautifully with the changing season, offering a chic way to enjoy a little autumn indulgence. Enjoy!
As we step further into fall, I hope you find inspiration in both your home and your travels. Whether you’re rearranging your great room or planning your next getaway, remember that beauty is all around us, and our homes should reflect the warmth and joy that we feel in the spaces we visit. Here’s to an inspired October! Be sure to check back later this month for my detailed post on selecting the perfect lighting for your kitchen and dining room!
Stay tuned for my November edit!
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