Curved forms are making their way back into modern homes in a major way. After years of clean, straight lines dominating contemporary design, arches, rounded corners, and sculptural curves are reintroducing softness and movement into interior spaces. Many homeowners are discovering that curves create a more relaxed atmosphere, gently guiding the eye and improving the natural flow of a room.

When planning a remodel, interior space designers in Glen Ellyn often use curved elements to add architectural character and balance sharp geometry without overwhelming the overall design. In this article, we’ll take a look at why curves are returning and how to incorporate arches into your home in a way that feels modern, effortless, and timeless. Read on!

Are arches in style in 2025?

Arches are one of the biggest omebacks of 2025, and they’re showing up in every corner of the home: entryways, kitchen openings, hall transitions, niches, shelving, and even furniture. Unlike trend-based finishes that fade seasonally, arches tap into something timeless, and that is: softness. They break up rigid geometry and introduce curves that feel warm and human.

Part of their appeal comes from the emotional response they create. Straight lines feel structured and strong; curves feel calm and welcoming. In a world where many homeowners are seeking comfort and a sense of retreat at home, curved shapes offer balance and visual relief from the hard, minimal lines that dominated the past decade.

Another reason arches are thriving: they add architectural interest without forcing a specific design style. An arch can look Mediterranean, Scandinavian, modern, transitional, or even minimalist. It adapts to the home, not the other way around. It’s a small structural choice that makes a room instantly feel more intentional and custom.

How to make arches in your home?

Curves can be added in big design ways or through smaller, design-forward details. Whether you’re planning construction or looking for subtle updates, there are plenty of ways to bring the arch trend into your space without overwhelming the design.

Add archways in transitions

If your home has square openings between rooms, consider reshaping one into an arch during a remodel. Even a single curved opening between the kitchen and living room can instantly change the atmosphere — the space feels more custom and visually softer. These structural arches frame views and create a sense of invitation as you move from one area to another.

Incorporate curved cabinetry or kitchen pass-throughs

Arched cabinet doors or rounded range hoods are a subtle way to introduce curves without altering walls. A small arched pass-through between the kitchen and dining area can also add charm and connection. These touches create a boutique, built-in feel, especially in luxury kitchens.

Use arched niches or built-ins

If you’re not ready for major construction, niches are a smart entry point. They make great homes for bookshelves, wine storage, or display areas. Even a simple drywall niche can create depth in hallways or living rooms.

Choose curved furniture and décor

Rounded sofas, barrel chairs, or arched mirrors can echo the same softness of architectural curves. This approach keeps the design flexible. If tastes change later, furniture can be swapped without affecting the structure of the home. It’s an easy way to experiment with curves before committing.

Highlight arches with lighting

Lighting turns curves into a focal point. Hidden LED lighting inside an arched niche or directional lighting above an arched doorway adds dimension and subtle drama. The right lighting emphasizes the curve’s shape and creates shadow play that enhances the architectural detail.

Looking for trusted interior space designers in Glen Ellyn? We bring ideas to life.

We approach every project in the Glen Ellyn Park District with a simple question – how should this space make you feel? From the first concepts to the final build, Ember & Brune transforms ideas into livable spaces through thoughtful planning and collaborative design. Instead of leaving you to imagine the outcome, we use 3D modeling to preview layouts, finishes, and flows before construction ever begins, letting you explore different possibilities with confidence.

Whether we’re reimagining a main living area, adding arches to entryways, or designing a kitchen island that becomes the true gathering point of the home, every detail is intentional. If you’re ready to create a space that feels elevated and uniquely yours, we’re here to make it happen.

The way a room is arranged influences far more than how it looks, affecting how you feel and function every day. Before reaching out to Glen Ellyn interior designers, it helps to understand how layout affects your mood and why certain spaces feel calm and inviting while others feel busy or overwhelming. Flow, sightlines, and the way natural light travels through a space all play into how your brain interprets comfort and order. When a layout aligns with how you live, the space supports your energy and reduces stress without you even realizing it.

In this article, we’ll explore the psychology of space and how your home’s layout can have a lasting impact on your emotional well-being – let’s dive in.

How does interior design affect mood?

Once you understand that layout influences energy and emotional reactions, it becomes clear why certain rooms feel instantly relaxing while others feel chaotic. Every design element introduces a psychological cue, from the amount of daylight a room receives to how furniture directs movement. Thoughtful design shapes how your mind processes the space and how your body responds to it.

The role of light in emotional well-being

Natural light is one of the strongest mood regulators in the home. Bright, open spaces encourage energy and alertness, while dim or poorly lit rooms can lead to fatigue or irritability. Designers consider how sunlight moves across a room throughout the day and position zones for working, relaxing, or socializing accordingly. Well-planned layers like ambient, task, and accent lighting can turn an ordinary room into a space that feels warm and emotionally grounded.

Color psychology: warm vs. cool tones

Color impacts emotion on a subconscious level. Cool tones like soft blues and greens can create a feeling of serenity, while warm hues such as terracotta and cream evoke comfort and sociability. The key is using color intentionally, not just because it’s trendy, but because it fits the mood of the room’s purpose. Even small accents, like textiles or decor, can shift the emotional temperature of a room.

Spatial flow and mental clarity

Cluttered layouts create mental friction. When movement from one part of the room to another feels blocked or awkward, the brain interprets the space as stressful. Clear circulation paths and well-defined zones make the home feel intuitive, anchoring the space so you instinctively know where to sit, where to work, and how to move through the space. A layout that supports natural movement helps reduce daily frustration and promotes ease.

Comfort through materials and texture

Texture affects mood on a tactile and emotional level. Soft fabrics or natural wood grains bring warmth and subtle richness, making a space feel inviting and grounded. Smooth surfaces such as metal or high-gloss finishes give a room a more polished, modern vibe. Balancing opposing textures adds depth and keeps the space from feeling flat or one-dimensional.

Proportion and scale influence stress levels

Oversized furniture in a small room can feel suffocating, while pieces that are too small leave the space feeling empty or unfinished. When proportion is balanced, your brain registers harmony. A room should feel neither overwhelming nor sparse. The right proportions allow the room to “breathe,” which translates into emotional ease.

Personalization and emotional connection

Humans are emotionally attached to meaning. A room feels better when it reflects your interests, values, and memories, not a showroom floor. Displaying art you love, travel mementos, or meaningful colors makes a space feel personal and comforting. When a room reflects your identity, it becomes a place you enjoy spending time in.

Who are the leading Glen Ellyn interior designers near me?

A well-designed home starts with understanding how a space should feel, not just how it should look. That’s why Ember & Brune takes a collaborative approach, planning layouts around the flow of daily life and emotional comfort. Using 3D visualization, clients in Glen Ellyn can walk through their future spaces before construction begins, allowing them to see how design decisions will impact movement, lighting, and overall mood.

Whether it’s integrating the growing trend of curved openings and soft archways or designing a kitchen island that becomes the true center of connection, every detail is intentional. Schedule an appointment with our design-build team today!

A well-designed home is the backdrop for family life, connection, and daily rituals. Today’s families want spaces that feel inviting, functional, and adaptable, where everyone can gather yet still enjoy their own corners of comfort. Thoughtful material choices all play a role in creating this balance.

If you’re considering reshaping your space with the help of a Glen Ellyn design+build studio, the goal should be to design interiors that foster togetherness while accommodating the unique rhythms of family living. When every element is planned with connection in mind, a house becomes a true home. In this article, we’ll explore how to design family-centered living spaces that bring people closer while supporting the needs of everyday life.

How to design a family home?

Family-centered design doesn’t follow trends, it focuses on creating homes that evolve with the people who live in them. Function, comfort, and adaptability matter just as much as style.

Prioritize open gathering areas

Large, open spaces allow families to come together naturally, whether it’s in a kitchen, living room, or a combined great room. An open floor plan promotes interaction while cooking, working, or relaxing, helping everyday routines feel more connected. These areas become the social hub of the home, making it easy to host guests or enjoy quiet family evenings. The key is to balance openness with defined zones so the layout feels spacious but still organized. When designed well, gathering spaces become the heartbeat of the home.

Create zones for privacy and flexibility

While connection is important, families also need spaces that allow for individual downtime. Bedrooms, reading nooks, or home offices provide the privacy required for focus or rest. Designing flexible rooms that can shift purpose, like a playroom that evolves into a study as kids grow, ensures longevity. These zones should feel intentional, so that every family member has a sense of belonging. A well-zoned home balances togetherness with independence.

Incorporate durable, family-friendly materials

Family-centered living often means high traffic and constant activity, so material selection is critical. Durable flooring like hardwood or tile, stain-resistant fabrics, and easy-to-clean surfaces all support a home that looks good while standing up to daily use. Texture and color choices should also help disguise wear, so the space stays polished even in busy seasons. When comfort and practicality meet, materials enhance both beauty and livability. This thoughtful approach allows design to work with family life, not against it.

Design kitchens as the hub of connection

While once spaces strictly for cooking, kitchens are now designed with entertaining in mind. A large island or peninsula can serve as a natural gathering point, drawing people together throughout the day. Integrating smart storage and seating makes the space as functional as it is welcoming. Lighting also plays a major role, helping the kitchen transition seamlessly from prep space to entertaining zone. By treating the kitchen as the true heart of the home, design supports connection on every level.

Plan for long-term adaptability

Homes that truly support families are designed with the future in mind. Flexible layouts and thoughtful circulation patterns make it easier for a home to grow alongside its occupants. For young families, this might mean safe, open spaces, while for older households, it may involve planning for aging in place with wider hallways or step-free entries. Designing with adaptability ensures the home remains comfortable and functional at every stage. Ultimately, a family-centered home is one that never stops working for the people inside it.

What our Glen Ellyn design+build studio delivers

Designing a home that feels truly connected requires expertise and coordination at every step. That’s where Ember & Brune changes the experience. By handling material selection, interior design, and 3D planning under one roof, we streamline the process so families can focus on vision rather than logistics.

Bid procurement and project management are built into the workflow, ensuring every decision is backed by accuracy and efficiency. From the earliest sketches to the final finishes, the process remains seamless, with one team overseeing both design and construction. Let us know your concept, and let’s design a space near Lake Ellyn Park for every stage of family living.

Texture plays one of the most important roles in shaping how a space feels and functions. Smooth stone, rough wood, soft fabrics, and reflective metals all bring their own energy, and when layered thoughtfully, they can completely transform an interior. Successful design doesn’t rely on a single material. Creating contrast, balance, and harmony through a mix of surfaces is essential. If you’re considering reshaping your place and contacting your local Glen Ellyn design build studio, understanding how to combine textures is fundamental in achieving a richer, more dynamic result.

How do you layer textures in interior design?

Think of texture as a design tool, just like color, scale, or layout. Layering is all about creating balance so that no single element overwhelms the rest.

Start with a neutral foundation

Every layered design needs a strong base to build upon, and that usually begins with neutral surfaces. Think of hardwood floors, stone tiles, or painted walls in soft, timeless shades that don’t compete for attention. These elements provide visual calm while setting the stage for more expressive materials. Without this foundation, the overall look can feel chaotic or disjointed. A neutral backdrop ensures that accent textures stand out while still feeling cohesive.

Introduce contrasting surfaces

Layering is most effective when there’s a play between opposites. Pairing smooth marble with rough-hewn wood, or cool metal with soft fabric, creates a dynamic rhythm in a room. These contrasts not only highlight the individuality of each material but also give the design depth and energy. Too many similar surfaces can feel flat, while thoughtful juxtapositions keep the space visually engaging. The key is to strike a balance so the contrasts feel intentional, not overwhelming.

Use textiles for warmth and softness

Hard surfaces alone can make a room feel cold, but textiles bring in comfort and approachability. A woven rug adds warmth underfoot, while curtains or upholstered seating soften the acoustics and overall atmosphere. Layering fabrics, like mixing linen, velvet, and wool, adds richness without requiring major architectural changes. These elements also make it easier to adjust the mood of a room seasonally or over time. In essence, textiles are the easiest way to humanize a space and make it feel lived-in.

Highlight with accent materials

Accents work like accessories in fashion: they don’t dominate, but they complete the picture. Brass fixtures, ceramic pieces, or a stone feature wall can add texture in subtle yet powerful ways. These smaller details create focal points that guide the eye through a space, ensuring it feels intentional rather than accidental. When applied sparingly, accents enrich the layered look without making it busy. They’re the finishing touches that elevate a design from simple to sophisticated.

Consider scale and proportion

Besides variety, texture is also about scale. Large surfaces, like walls or floors, should carry simpler, more subdued finishes, while smaller-scale details can showcase bolder textures. For example, a textured backsplash makes more sense as a highlight than across an entire wall. Playing with proportion ensures the space feels balanced and prevents visual overload. By respecting scale, textures complement rather than compete, resulting in a more harmonious interior.

Looking for a reputable Glen Ellyn-based design build studio near you? You’re in the right place!

At Ember & Brune, interior design and material selection are part of a seamless process, ensuring that every detail works in harmony with your lifestyle. Whether it’s a kitchen designed for connecting and entertaining, a home that supports the needs of a growing family, or spaces thoughtfully planned for aging in place, our team approaches each project in Glen Ellyn and across the region with both creativity and practicality.

By managing every step, we create contemporary interiors that are built to adapt to life’s many stages. Schedule a consultation with our specialists today!

Remodeling with entertaining in mind means designing spaces that invite people in and keep them connected. It’s about how the kitchen opens up to the living room, how the bar becomes a natural gathering spot, and how the entire home feels ready for conversation, celebration, and company.

Before working with a design+build studio in Glen Ellyn, it helps to understand the elements that turn everyday rooms into warm, welcoming spaces for hosting. With the right layout and finishes, your home can be both personal and effortlessly social.

How to design a home for entertaining?

Great entertaining begins with thoughtful design. The way a home is laid out can shape how people interact, how freely they move from room to room, and how comfortable they feel settling in. When spaces are planned with hosting in mind, whether it’s a casual gathering or a full dinner party, every detail plays a role in creating the right atmosphere.

Kitchen flow that encourages gathering

The kitchen tends to attract people, even when you’re not trying to make it the center of attention. That’s why layout matters – deeply. Islands that allow for multiple work zones, wide walkways that support movement without crowding, and open sightlines that connect the kitchen to adjacent living or dining areas all contribute to a better hosting experience.

Design choices like built-in seating or a strategically placed pantry can make the kitchen feel layered and lived-in, not just functional. Multi-level islands create visual interest while offering casual seating that encourages guests to linger. The more effortlessly a kitchen accommodates conversation and movement, the more naturally it becomes a space people gravitate toward.

Bars that double as conversation hubs

A well-placed bar creates a natural point of connection. Whether it’s a full walk-up with glass storage and a wine fridge or a compact wet bar tucked near the living room, the bar can act as a social anchor without dominating the space.

Material layering plays a big role here with stone, wood, metal, and lighting all influencing how the bar feels in context with the rest of the home. Open shelving or undercounter lighting adds warmth and helps the space feel integrated, not like an afterthought. A bar that’s designed with care becomes part of the architecture of entertaining, something guests remember without it needing to announce itself.

Dining spaces that feel connected

One of the most effective ways to modernize a dining experience is to create subtle transitions between rooms rather than walls or hard boundaries. Consider partial walls or framed views that connect the dining area visually and spatially with the kitchen and living zones.

At the same time, the dining room should still hold its own. A strong table presence and comfortable seating elevate the space without overpowering it. It’s not just about having a place to sit – it’s about setting the tone for everything from family meals to milestone celebrations.

Seamless indoor–outdoor transitions

Outdoor living has become an extension of the home. Sliding doors, folding glass walls, or pass-through windows help blur the line between indoor spaces and patios, decks, or courtyards. The goal is to create one continuous experience, where guests can move easily from the kitchen to an outdoor lounge without breaking the mood or flow.

Material continuity helps, too. Using complementary flooring or finishes both inside and out ties the areas together visually. Covered spaces, outdoor heaters, and built-in audio systems further encourage year-round use.

Planning to remodel for entertaining? Reach out to our design+build studio in Glen Ellyn

Every entertaining space begins with thoughtful planning. At Ember & Brune, we handle everything from layout development and finish selection to project management and execution, ensuring each space feels cohesive, inviting, and personal.

Whether you’re designing a kitchen built for gathering or outdoor areas that connect effortlessly with the indoors, our process is tailored to your needs and lifestyle. And while entertaining may be the focus today, we also think ahead, integrating design choices that support aging in place, so your home in Glen Ellyn remains functional and stylish for years to come.

Maybe you love your home and can’t imagine leaving it, but you’ve started to wonder how well it will suit you five, ten, or even twenty years from now. Stairs that once felt effortless might become a challenge, bathrooms may not feel as safe, and kitchens can be harder to navigate. That’s where aging-in-place remodeling comes in. Before contacting a design build studio in Glen Ellyn or the area, it’s worth knowing what to expect – how design decisions today can add comfort, safety, and independence tomorrow, all without sacrificing the style that makes your home feel like yours.

What is the best home design for aging in place?

Remodeling for aging-in-place is most effective when practical details are seamlessly integrated into the overall design. The goal is to create a home that feels natural and comfortable to live in, while also anticipating the needs that come with time.

Architectural flow that works

The way a home is laid out can have a profound impact on how livable it remains over the years. Wider hallways and open sight lines aren’t only about accessibility – they also help rooms feel more expansive and welcoming. Reducing unnecessary steps and level changes between spaces creates a smooth continuity that makes movement effortless. These adjustments can be introduced without altering the character of the home, often enhancing its sense of balance and proportion in the process.

Bathrooms that blend form and function

Bathrooms are one of the most important spaces to rethink in a long-term living plan. A curbless shower with frameless glass brings an understated elegance while eliminating barriers that may become difficult later on. Heated floors provide warmth and comfort, making the space inviting every day of the year. Thoughtful additions like built-in seating, recessed shelving, and well-placed lighting create convenience without drawing attention to themselves. The result is a bathroom that looks like it was designed purely for comfort and style, yet carries the added benefit of being practical for decades to come.

Kitchens planned for everyday living

The kitchen is often the heart of the home, which means it must work as beautifully as it looks. Multi-level islands are an excellent way to make the space flexible, whether it’s designed for entertaining or everyday moments that reflect a family-centered home. Touchless fixtures simplify daily tasks while keeping surfaces clean, and custom pull-out storage ensures that essentials are within easy reach without cluttering the room. Over time, these details make the kitchen not only easier to use but also more enjoyable, turning routine tasks into seamless experiences.

Lighting and technology in harmony

Lighting is a design element that serves both function and atmosphere. A well-layered plan can highlight architectural features while providing the visibility needed for safe navigation at night. Task lighting in kitchens and bathrooms reduces strain, while ambient and accent lighting keep the home feeling warm and inviting.

When paired with discreet technology such as voice-activated controls or intuitive climate systems, the home becomes adaptable with very little effort required from its occupants. These additions don’t alter the character of the spaces but instead create an environment that responds to its residents with quiet efficiency.

What is the go-to design build studio near me in Glen Ellyn?

Designing a home in DuPage County for long-term living requires making thoughtful choices that feel natural today and remain practical tomorrow. Ember & Brune takes that approach to every project, managing everything from bid procurement to complete project management and interior design.

By carefully layering materials, finishes, and architectural details, we create spaces that reflect your style while supporting comfort and ease of use over time. Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel, reimagining a bathroom, or looking at a whole-home transformation, we handle the process from start to finish so you can enjoy a home that evolves gracefully with you.

Smart storage is the backbone of a functional kitchen, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of good design. From bulky organizers to awkward cabinet add-ons, many storage solutions solve one problem while creating another: visual clutter. But with a thoughtful approach, it’s possible to maximize space and maintain a clean, elevated look.

Before you reach out to a design + build company in Glen Ellyn, it helps to know which upgrades offer both form and function. In this article, we’ll highlight clever, style-forward kitchen storage ideas that keep clutter hidden, tools accessible, and your kitchen looking beautifully pulled together.

How do you layout kitchen storage?

Before you think about materials or cabinet styles, storage begins with layout. The most beautiful kitchen in the world won’t feel functional if your essentials are scattered across the room or hard to reach. A smart storage plan zones your kitchen into logical areas: prepping, cooking, cleaning, and serving. Each zone should be stocked with the tools and ingredients needed for that task, reducing unnecessary movement and improving flow.

Drawers near the cooktop should house pots, pans, and utensils, spices and oils belong within arm’s reach of prep areas, and plates and cutlery should be near the dishwasher or sink for easy unloading. It’s about putting the right items in the right place. Once the zones are clearly defined, built-ins and cabinetry features can be customized around how you use the space, not just what looks good on paper.

Design-forward storage options that work

Storage doesn’t have to scream “utility.” With the right design choices, you can create storage solutions that are both discreet and beautiful. These upgrades work behind the scenes while maintaining the clean lines and overall aesthetic of your kitchen.

• Pull-outs and deep drawers built-in dividers: These solutions offer sleek storage without disrupting your kitchen’s flow.
• Maximize hidden spaces: Toe-kick drawers, appliance garages, and corner pull-outs make use of awkward or forgotten areas.
• Style meets function: Details like built-in beverage drawers or hidden coffee stations give you convenience without sacrificing design. These upgrades let your kitchen do more—while still looking effortless.

Materials and finishes that elevate storage

How your storage looks is just as important as how it functions. Materials, textures, and finishes all contribute to the overall tone of your kitchen and can elevate even the most utilitarian features. These thoughtful choices make everyday interactions feel intentional and polished.

Matte fronts, warm wood tones, and fluted or reeded surfaces add texture and depth without visual clutter. Pair with minimalist hardware like slim black pulls or recessed handles for a refined look.

Remember, storage should feel just as elevated inside. Soft-close drawers, integrated lighting, and smooth interiors make daily use feel high-end. The right finishes do more than look good, enhancing every interaction.

Open shelving vs. closed cabinetry

Not all storage needs to be hidden. In fact, combining open and closed elements can make your kitchen feel more dynamic and personal.

Open shelves lighten up the kitchen and create space for curated pieces like the dishes, greenery, or glassware. They work well in small kitchens or to break up long rows of upper cabinets.

However, not everything belongs on display. Closed cabinets keep everyday clutter hidden and maintain a clean, organized look. Use them for pantry items, appliances, and anything else you’d rather not showcase.

If you want the best of both worlds, a mix of open and closed storage gives you flexibility and balance of style and practicality.

What is the go-to design + build company in Glen Ellyn?

Storage is just one piece of the puzzle. At Ember & Brune, we take a holistic approach to every remodel, combining layout, function, and interior aesthetics.

From rethinking your kitchen storage to designing a custom home office that supports the way you live near the Glen Ellyn Main Street Historic District, our team guides you through every step of the process, with the whole project managed in-house from concept to completion. Schedule a consultation with our specialists today!

Architectural details are often the unsung heroes of great interior design. They might not grab your attention at first glance, but they’re what give a home depth, character, and a sense of intention. Ceiling treatments, custom millwork, arches, niches, and built-ins are all elements taht go beyond decoration to shape the way a space feels.

If you’re planning a full house remodeling in Glen Ellyn, now is the perfect time to think beyond just finishes and floorplans. Thoughtful architectural details can turn an ordinary room into a truly memorable space, adding both beauty and value. In this article, we’ll explore the features that create visual interest and lasting impact throughout your home.

What is a design statement in interior design?

A design statement is all about creating a moment in your home that draws the eye, anchors the room, and sets the tone for everything around it. In interior design, these statements are often architectural. Think of a coffered ceiling, a dramatic archway, or a custom fireplace surround. These features ground the space and instantly communicate intention.

What makes a design statement effective is its ability to stand out without overwhelming. It should complement the overall style of your home while adding something distinctive, In interior design, these focal points are opportunities to add architectural identity, giving each room its own personality while still keeping the home cohesive.

Ceiling details that add character

Too often, ceilings are treated as an afterthought, but in a well-designed home, they’re full of potential. Coffered ceilings, tray ceilings, wood beams, and tongue-and-groove paneling can dramatically change the tone of a space. These details add depth, draw the eye upward, and instantly make a room feel more curated.

Arches, niches, and openings

Doorways and transitions can be sculptural moments in your home. Replacing square openings with arches or softly rounded corners introduces a sense of flow and softness. Arched entries into a dining room, hallway, or even a shower instantly elevate the space, evoking timeless elegance.

Niches and wall insets are another way to add function and personality. Whether used for art, open shelving, or subtle lighting, they create dimensional interest without clutter. These architectural cutouts add soul to walls that might otherwise feel blank, and they’re an ideal feature to plan during a whole-home renovation.

Built-ins that feel bespoke

Built-in cabinetry, bookcases, window seats, and entertainment units do more than offer storage, helping define a room’s layout and rhythm. Unlike standalone furniture, built-ins feel like part of the home’s architecture, especially when they include integrated lighting, detailed trim, or complementary finishes.

These features also allow for creative problem-solving—turning awkward nooks into functional zones or creating balance where a wall feels too long or empty. A well-designed built-in becomes both a practical solution and a focal point, blending beauty with everyday function in a way that standalone pieces often can’t.

Design details that enhance every room

Not every architectural detail needs to be large-scale. Smaller elements like upgraded baseboards, crown molding, picture rails, or wainscoting can quietly elevate a space. These trims create subtle texture and visual rhythm, adding polish without requiring dramatic gestures. Used consistently, they tie different rooms together while still allowing each one to express its unique mood.

Even hardware placement or wall paneling can create intentional moments throughout the home. The goal is to make every surface feel considered so no matter where you are in the house, the design feels complete from floor to ceiling.

Who are the leading experts for full-house remodeling in Glen Ellyn?

At Ember & Brune, we believe architectural details are a part of the foundation of great design. During  remodeling projects, we collaborate closely with clients to identify where a feature wall, custom ceiling, or built-in solution can add visual impact without compromising flow or function.

Whether you’re dreaming of a show-stopping kitchen with custom storage space, a hidden home office built into a wall of cabinetry, or simply want to enhance your home in Glen Ellyn, our team handles every step of the process – in-house.

Storage isn’t just about finding places to put things, it’s about designing a home that feels calm, uncluttered, and easy to live in. The best solutions don’t fight the layout; they work with it. Before you call on new house interior designers in Glen Ellyn to map out your dream space, it’s worth thinking through how storage can support your daily routine in each room. From subtle built-ins to hidden compartments, the right storage plan blends effortlessly into the design, and quietly transforms how your home functions.

How do I organize storage in my home?

Organizing storage doesn’t mean every room needs floor-to-ceiling cabinetry. It means understanding how you use each space, and designing storage that feels natural, not forced. Below, we walk through smart, stylish storage ideas that work across the home, without compromising on design.

Kitchen: Storage that complements the design

The kitchen is one of the most storage-heavy rooms in the house, but it’s also the one where aesthetics matter most. Cabinets shouldn’t just hold your cookware, they should enhance the flow and look of the space. Custom drawer inserts, vertical dividers for trays, and deep pull-outs for pots all add usability without crowding the layout.

Smart storage also means accounting for small appliances, pantry staples, and recycling bins in a way that doesn’t dominate the kitchen. Whether it’s a hidden appliance garage or sleek open shelving that matches your materials, storage here should feel like a continuation of the kitchen design, not a last-minute add-on.

Bathroom: Maximize vertical and underutilized spaces

Bathrooms often come with layout limitations, so storage needs to be clever. Think recessed niches in the shower, floating vanities with drawers, or mirrored medicine cabinets with hidden shelving. Even a small powder room can benefit from wall-mounted cabinets or custom millwork around the sink.

The goal is to keep essentials at hand like towels, toiletries, cleaning supplies, without creating clutter. Materials matter here too. Use moisture-resistant finishes and hardware that matches your bathroom’s overall tone to maintain a seamless look.

Living room: Blending storage with style

In a living room, storage has to be subtle. Built-ins around a fireplace, a low media console, or even a custom window seat can add storage without feeling like storage. Open shelving gives you room to display while closed cabinets hide the mess.

Storage in this space should also support how you live, whether it’s a space to hide toys, store extra throws, or keep tech organized. The trick is finding furniture and architectural details that do double duty without standing out.

Bedroom: Storage that feels calm, not cluttered

Bedrooms should feel restful, and the wrong kind of storage can disrupt that. Go for a mix of hidden and open solutions like under-bed drawers, built-in closets, or wall-mounted nightstands with concealed compartments.

If space is limited, consider extending closets vertically or integrating wardrobe walls with clean, minimal finishes. Even a headboard with integrated shelves can give you a little more function without adding bulk.

Entryway: Built for everyday function

First impressions matter, and your entryway sets the tone. But it also sees the most foot traffic and daily mess. That’s where thoughtful storage matters most. Bench seating with lift-up lids, cubbies for shoes, and hooks for coats keep things streamlined.

Custom lockers or built-ins can work wonders, especially in busy households. Materials here should be durable and easy to clean, but the design should still match the tone of the rest of the home.

Looking for new house interior designers in Glen Ellyn? You found your team!

Storage should never feel like an afterthought. It should be built into the design from the very beginning, planned with intention, shaped around how you live, and styled to fit your space in DuPage County. That’s where our design-build approach comes in. From conceptual design and bid procurement to full interior design, we guide every step with transparency and professionalism.

Whether we’re creating seamless storage in your kitchen, integrating built-ins into your home office, or designing custom solutions throughout the house, Ember & Brune makes sure function and style work together!

Your home office shouldn’t feel like an afterthought. It deserves the same attention to detail as your kitchen or living room, especially if it’s where you spend most of your day. The challenge? Balancing aesthetics with real function, without turning your space into something that feels too formal or too relaxed. Before you get in touch with a full home interior designer in Glen Ellyn, it helps to get clear on what makes a home office feel productive and stylish. Let’s break it down!

How do I design a home office?

From small nooks to dedicated rooms, there’s no one-size-fits-all formula, but there are a few core elements that can make or break your space. Think less about corporate rules and more about what helps you focus. Here are the essentials to keep in mind when building a home office that looks good and works hard:

1. Start with the layout

The layout of your home office sets the tone for how you move and work in the space. Instead of defaulting to the traditional desk-against-the-wall setup, consider what actually supports your day-to-day routine. Do you need space for spreading out documents? Do you prefer to face a window for natural light or keep distractions behind you?

Consider how you enter and exit the space, how often you get up, and whether your workflow is mostly digital or requires physical storage. A layout that mirrors your habits will naturally feel more intuitive and less rigid – exactly what a home office should be.

2. Let lighting set the mood

Harsh overhead lights don’t do anyone any favors, especially when you’re trying to concentrate for hours on end. A well-designed home office layers natural light, ambient lighting, and focused task lighting. Start by maximizing daylight and position your desk near a window if possible, but avoid glare directly on your screen.

Then think in layers: a warm overhead fixture adds comfort, a desk lamp provides focused illumination, and subtle accent lighting (like LED strips under shelves) can boost ambiance without distraction. Lighting affects everything from energy to eye strain, so treat it as a central design feature, not an afterthought.

3. Work-ready furniture with a design edge

That sleek designer chair might look good on Pinterest, but if it leaves you shifting every five minutes, it’s not doing its job. Choose ergonomic pieces that support you through long sessions, but don’t settle for generic corporate styles. You can find seating and desks that balance comfort, scale, and aesthetics – think soft curves, natural materials, or even vintage pieces reimagined for work use.

If your space is shared or multipurpose, consider convertible furniture: desks that fold, ottomans with storage, or custom built-ins that blend seamlessly with the rest of your home’s design.

4. Storage you’ll actually use

The most beautiful office in the world can quickly turn into chaos without practical storage. The key is to keep the tools you use most within reach and tuck everything else away. Opt for closed cabinets to hide the clutter, open shelves to display what inspires you, and drawers for easy access to everyday items.

Want a cleaner aesthetic? Built-in storage can keep things sleek while maximizing vertical space. And don’t forget cable management. Nothing ruins the vibe faster than a tangle of cords.

5. Mix texture, color, and personality

This is where your home office can stand apart. A few intentional choices like a moody wall color, a textured rug, or artwork that actually means something to you, can change how the space feels. Layering tactile elements like linen, leather, wood, or metal adds dimension and keeps things from feeling sterile.

Color psychology also plays a role. Blues and greens promote calm, while warm neutrals feel grounded. Add something personal, whether it’s a bookshelf full of your favorite reads or a pinboard for creative ideas. It’s a workspace, but it’s still part of your home.

6. Don’t forget the acoustics

Sound matters more than most people realize, especially in meetings or when you’re trying to focus. Hard surfaces echo, and noisy backgrounds are distracting. Add soft materials like curtains, rugs, or upholstered furniture to absorb sound naturally. If you’re in a particularly echo-prone space, acoustic panels or even strategically placed bookcases can help buffer the noise. Working in peace is a productivity booster. Plus, a quiet, well-designed space helps you stay focused longer without fatigue.

Where can I find a reputable full home interior designer in Glen Ellyn?

Our design-build team in Glen Ellyn handles everything from material selection and architectural drawings to full project management, making your renovation process seamless from start to finish. Whether it’s designing a kitchen with smart storage that actually complements your layout, or incorporating architectural statement details that give your home real character, Ember & Brune blends functionality with bold, cohesive design. Schedule a consultation with our specialists today!