TWC Studio Tour: Designing My Dream Work & Guest Space
When I officially became an empty nester, it felt like the perfect time to rethink our home, especially the “bonus room” above the garage. For years, my work as a personal stylist had spilled into our bedroom. Clothing racks, stacks of shoes, and the inevitable returns pile turned our room into a part-time studio. It wasn’t fair to Greg (my husband), and honestly, it wasn’t ideal for either of us.
From Catch-All to Intentional Design
That bonus room had long been a hodgepodge: the king bed from my parents’ post-renovation, the kitchen table from my first apartment with Greg, and a couch from my D.C. days. Nothing wrong with any of it, but it wasn’t purposeful.
This time, I saw the chance to create a multifunctional haven: a true studio space, a comfortable guest room, and even a spot for game nights with friends. My goal was the same approach I take with a wardrobe refresh: a thoughtful mix of investment pieces, timeless staples, and playful accents that bring joy.
Starting with the Walls
The feature wall set the tone. I fell for a zigzag, almost swishy wallpaper that gave the space instant personality. From there, I pulled in a vibrant pop art piece I’d had elsewhere in the house by Nelson De La Nuez, aka King of Pop Art. That artwork became the color inspiration for the whole room.
A Game Table (Because Why Not?)
I’ve always dreamed of a proper spot to play Mahjong or Canasta with friends, without dragging out a folding table. When I spotted a grasscloth card table at the Kips Bay Designer Show House in Palm Beach, it was love at first sight. The matching chairs sealed the deal, and both ended up being fabulous finds at great prices.
Comfort Meets Function
Because this is also my try-on studio, a neutral carpet keeps shoes and clothing pristine for returns. For overnight guests, I prioritized a cozy king bed and blackout blinds for a true “sleep in” experience.
The biggest win? Finding Two Pages, a curtain brand that offers fully customizable drapes at surprisingly reasonable prices. They elevate the room while also making it extra guest-friendly.
Curated Accessories: High, Low & Sentimental
Like any good outfit, the accessories make the space. I mixed family heirlooms with pieces from HomeGoods, Amazon, Wayfair, and Crate & Barrel. My bigger investments included recovering the bench bolster in a bold fabric and adding statement lighting: a swooping black lamp from our old Florida apartment, a playful bubble chandelier (yes, Amazon!), and a green reading light tucked beside a boucle chair.
One of my favorite pieces is deeply personal: a painting of a little girl kissing a frog by Israeli artist Orit Fuchs. Frogs have always been a symbol for me (yes, my Bat Mitzvah theme was frogs!). They represent jumping forward, not backward, which is a mantra I try to live by. Plus, as I often tell my clients, “You have to kiss a lot of frogs to find your prince.” It felt like fate to have this painting as a backdrop in my studio.
Mirrors Matter
As a stylist, a good mirror isn’t optional. The dark wood mirror (similar mirror) with its bubble-like texture has become the showstopper, much like the one in my bedroom. It’s as functional as it is fun!
The Perfect Blend
Just like building a wardrobe, designing this studio was about balance: investment pieces, budget-friendly finds, and treasures with meaning. The result is a space that finally feels like me, functions the way I need it to, and welcomes colleagues, clients, friends, and family with ease.
Shop the Studio
I hope you’ve enjoyed this peek into my new studio. If you’re thinking about refreshing your own home, remember: style, function, and meaning are the ultimate power trio.