INTERIOR DESIGNER CHATS: Kimberly Haag

Each month we chat with local interior designers in Phoenix. This month we spoke with Kimberly Haag about her favorite trends, least favorite trends and her ideal home.

What do you think is going to be the next trend in interior design?

I think (hope) that we will start adding in some darker colors to our spaces. We’ve been in love with all white everything, which I’m not mad at, but I think we’re going to start craving some grounding in our spaces. Light and bright is still refreshing, but we need some moody and cozy spaces as well.

What is your favorite trend this year?

I love that people are filling their homes with plants again. Plants bring so much life to a room. In such a tech-heavy world, we need more nature around us.

What is the biggest design mistake that you see most often?

The biggest design mistake that I have noticed is that people’s accessories are too small. Lots of spaces appear cluttered because there are too many small objects on one surface. Play with scale. Edit down your knick-knacks.

What is one change every homeowner should make?

Almost every homeowner needs to invest in the design of their home. People will rule out decor as an unnecessary expense not realizing that having a comfortable space would enhance their life and actually help them save money in the long run. If their bedroom was restful, they would get better quality rest, reducing their desire to get massages or go on vacation. If their kitchen was inviting and functional, they would cook more often and eat out less. If your living room was comfortable and provided a space for play and spending time with loved ones, families would get along better and not have to go out to the movies or a bowling alley. Your home affects your mood, relationships, and energy. Having a space that you love and want to come home to would improve your quality of life.

What is your favorite thing in the home?

My favorite thing in a home is an organized home office or desk. Bills, documents, budgets, kids’ homework, and pictures are the worst to deal with when you cannot find what you need. Just having a designated spot for everything in a space that is decorated to your taste would greatly reduce the anxiety surrounding paying bills and other annoying tasks. Loose papers are some of the most unattractive, necessary evils of our homes. Buy a scanner. Digitalize everything. If you are completely helpless with technology, at least get a beautiful filing cabinets. Put the papers away.

Least favorite?

My least favorite things in a home are too many Pinterest projects. Yes, it’s cool to add your own personal touches, but enough with the palette wood and cheesy quotes. Unless you are truly an artist, I’m sorry, but your cheap, fun projects probably look more cheap than fun when they are the only things adorning your walls. Balance out the cheap arts and crafts with some sophisticated decor.

Describe an ideal home in 3 words.

Organized, inviting, personal.

For more inspiration or to see Kimberly’s work, visit her Pinterest.