Behind the Mood Board: How We Build a Summer-Inspired Palette

7116201214 • July 1, 2025

Dining room with a wooden table set for a meal; green paneling, and a patterned rug.

There’s something about summer that invites lightness—whether it’s a sunlit room, a fresh color scheme, or the feeling of breathing easier in your own space. At KB Design, our summer mood boards are built to capture that energy and translate it into spaces that feel as refreshing as the season itself.

Here’s a peek behind the scenes at how we craft a summer-inspired palette that’s both timeless and tailored.

1. Start with the Feeling, Not the Color

Before we pull swatches, we ask: How do we want this space to feel? For summer, that usually means words like airy, casual, layered, and sun-washed. From there, we start to translate that feeling into tones and textures.

2. Pull from Nature

Some of our favorite summer palettes are inspired by:

Coastal moments – muted blues, driftwood taupes, sandy creams
Fresh produce – watermelon pinks, basil greens, and citrus accents
Desert tones – terracotta, clay, and sun-bleached neutrals

Nature never gets it wrong, and it helps ground our designs in something that feels organic and calming.

3. Balance Neutrals and Pops

A common summer mistake? Going too bold. We always build a neutral foundation first. Think warm whites, soft grays, or textural linen tones. Then we layer in pops of seasonal color (just enough to energize the space without overwhelming it.)

4. Mix Textures Like You Mix Drinks

To keep things fresh, we layer a variety of light, breathable textures that bring movement and depth to a room…just like a perfectly balanced summer cocktail, it’s all about the right mix!

Linen + Rattan: A crisp linen sofa paired with a woven rattan accent chair instantly evokes relaxed, beachy elegance.
Woods + Wovens: Light oak or whitewashed wood tones mix beautifully with jute rugs, seagrass baskets, or cane-front cabinets.
Soft Throws + Pillows: Lightweight cotton throws and textured pillows in varying weaves keep your sofa or bed visually layered but seasonally appropriate.

The goal? A space that feels like a summer breeze, effortless and layered.

5. Make It Personal

Every client brings their own version of summer to the table. For some, it’s beachside nostalgia; for others, it’s travel, gardens, or family barbecues. We always fold those personal stories into our palettes to keep them meaningful, not just stylish.

Want Your Own Summer Mood Board?

We’d love to create a seasonal look tailored to your space. Whether you’re refreshing a living room, designing a vacation home, or simply looking for color inspiration, we’re here to help bring summer home. Click here to book your exploratory call today.

A dining room with a wooden table set for a meal. Includes green wainscoting, a rug, and a gold light fixture.

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Bold Statement Pieces That Instantly Elevate a Room

October 1, 2025

When it comes to interior design, sometimes one piece is all it takes to transform a space from ordinary to unforgettable. A bold statement piece doesn’t just add beauty, it anchors the room, sparks conversation, and sets the tone for your entire design. Whether you’re working with a neutral palette or layering in color and texture, these show-stopping elements can instantly elevate your space. 1. Oversized Artwork Large-scale art creates immediate impact. A dramatic painting or photograph not only fills wall space but also draws the eye, giving your room a polished, gallery-like feel. Choose a piece that reflects your personality or makes your guests pause for a second look. 2. Sculptural Lighting Think beyond basic pendants. Chandeliers with unexpected shapes, oversized floor lamps, or contemporary sconces can act like functional art. A striking light fixture becomes the jewelry of the room, practical and beautiful at the same time. 3. Bold Accent Chairs A single accent chair in a daring color or unique silhouette can redefine a seating area. Upholstered in a rich velvet or patterned fabric, it instantly injects personality without overwhelming the space. 4. Statement Mirrors Mirrors add light, depth, and drama. A floor-to-ceiling mirror, a vintage gilded frame, or a geometric modern shape can all serve as conversation pieces while also making the space feel larger and brighter. 5. Rugs with Personality Instead of playing it safe, go for a rug with bold patterns or vibrant colors. The floor is often overlooked in real estate, why not use it to make a design statement? A well-chosen rug can tie your whole scheme together while also grounding the space. 6. Dramatic Wall Treatments Wallpaper, textured plaster, or bold paint colors can transform plain walls into statement features. A single accent wall or an entire room wrapped in pattern makes an unforgettable impact.