Essential Elements: Why Every Room Needs a Mirror, Sconces, and a Snuggle Spot

The Mirror: An essential for light

Every single room in your home needs a mirror. Why? Because a mirror is the single best way to bring a room to life. The moment a mirror becomes a backdrop, the way light—whether natural or artificial—tosses itself around the space makes everything come alive. (And the frame on this beautiful mirror from Made Goods maximizes reflection with its natural pen shell material). A mirror expands the visual size of the room and creates a dynamic, airy feel that paint or furniture alone can't achieve. If you have a favorite window view, a well-placed mirror can double it.

Sconce Lighting:

The Power of Intimacy

Sconces are one of my great loves, for the way they simply make every space look good! Overhead lighting has its place, but for a room to feel inviting, cozy, and warm, you need intimate, layered light. Lighting and a well-planned space can profoundly impact your mood and contribute to your overall well-being. Wall lights, in particular, provide light at a more comforting eye level, creating warm, low-glow pockets perfect for conversation or quiet reading. And if the sconce incorporates a naturally luminous material such as marble or onyx, even better!

I love this one from Visual Comfort.

The Snuggle Spot: Designing for Real Life

The third essential element of a favorite room is at least one comfortable "snuggle spot." In an age where home is our sanctuary and cocoon, having a place to truly lounge, curl up, and nap is non-negotiable. This goes beyond a functional sofa; it’s about designing with napping in mind.

We always advise clients to design around their actual lifestyle—kids, pets, and all—not a polished fantasy. That often calls for durable, bullet-proof upholstery that can handle real-life use and pillows that are meant to look relaxed and "lived on." In my own home, my favorite piece of furniture is a formless linen sofa that I affectionately describe as "more like a feather sleeping bag with a back." It gets sloppy, but it’s the heart of the room—a place to lounge, read, and truly be at ease.

By prioritizing these three elements—light, intimacy, and comfort—you can create a space that doesn't just look beautiful but functions beautifully for your best life.