Elevated style, signature scent: Cereria Molla
Three Design Trends We’re Loving Right Now

Three Design Trends We’re Loving Right Now

by Shana Starr in News

Design trends may come and go, but every so often, something catches our eye and truly earns its place in timeless design. At Ivory & Olive, we’re always inspired by materials, silhouettes, and elements that not only elevate a space but also tell a story. These three trends are more than just moments. They’re statements. And we’re all in.

Nature’s Original Art - Burl Wood & Live-Edge Accents

There’s something undeniably special about burl wood and live-edge pieces. Each one is a unique expression of nature, with swirling wood grain, rich tones, and organic imperfections that add soul to a space. We’ve long loved the warmth these elements bring, but right now, they’re having a major design moment, and for good reason.

Live-edge tables, burl consoles, trays, and even chairs offer a sculptural quality that feels both grounded and elevated. They're a nod to vintage craftsmanship (hello, 1930s roots) but still feel completely fresh and warm. Even in manufactured materials, these natural looking pieces reconnect us to the organic, and bring texture, movement, and depth to any room.

Curves Ahead - Soft Shapes with Major Impact

 

If you're craving visual interest without overpowering the room, curves are your best friend. We’re embracing this trend from every angle — literally. Curved furniture softens a space and invites movement, flow, and comfort. Think: a kidney-shaped coffee table, a sculptural bench at the foot of the bed, or a rounded-back sofa or chairs bring creativity to a room without shouting “look at me.” 

Even smaller touches can make a big difference. Arched mirrors, oblong ottomans, and crescent-shaped accent tables all deliver on style without demanding a total redesign. This trend is equal parts playful and refined, and it's here to stay.

Elevated Faux Florals & Yes, We Said Faux

Don’t hate on faux, there is the bad kind, but so many good ones, so hear us out. The new generation of faux florals and branches are shockingly lifelike and incredibly chic. High-quality silk stems and greenery (like those in our Jamie Young Highland vases) can elevate everything from mantels to kitchen islands.

We love using deep green stems, budding or plain branches, eucalyptus branches, and soft blossoms to add life to a space... no maintenance required. Styled in a matte black vessel or creamy ceramic jug, these arrangements bring warmth, color, and a designer touch that lasts all season (and then some).

 


Final Take

Of all the beautiful design moments happening right now, these three —burl wood, bold curves, and elevated florals — are the ones we keep coming back to. They strike the perfect balance between on-trend and timeless, which is exactly how we like to design.

Come by the shop or explore our online shop; we’ve got plenty of pieces that bring these trends to life in the most stunning ways.

 

Previous Post Next Post

Related Posts

Fall Mantel Styling Workshop in Dana Point

Fall Mantel Styling Workshop in Dana Point

Looking for something fun to do in Dana Point this fall? Join us at Ivory & Olive for an inspiring mantel styling workshop in collaboration with the talented team at Wildflower Florals. This hands-on event will guide you through the process of creating a warm, welcoming, harvest-inspired mantelscape. Whether you're decorating your actual mantel or another cozy nook in your home, we’ll show you how to layer textures, play with dried foliage, and use pottery and accents to bring your space to life for the season. What’s included: Hand-picked pottery Harvest-inspired dried foliage and branches Accent gourds Design demonstration and Q&A with design professionals from Ivory & Olive and Wildflower Florals And the best part? You’ll head home with everything you style in the workshop—so your space will feel instantly transformed. Think of it as design school meets take-home treasure. Don’t have a mantel? No problem! These concepts can be applied to console tables, entryways, coffee tables—anywhere that could use a little seasonal magic. 📍 Location: Ivory & Olive, Dana Point, CA 🎟 Tickets: $160 (includes all materials and instruction) 📅 Upcoming Date: October 9 We can’t wait to welcome you in and help you create something beautiful. 🍂

Learn more
When It Comes to a Kitchen Remodel, Designers Want You to Do These 5 Things

When It Comes to a Kitchen Remodel, Designers Want You to Do These 5 Things

When it comes to a kitchen remodel, the decisions you make will determine whether your space feels timeless or quickly outdated. At Ivory & Olive Decor, we view the kitchen as the anchor of the home — a place where family and friends naturally gather, and a room that can stand on its own as a design statement. It deserves thoughtful choices that balance style and function. Here are five things we always encourage our clients to consider when planning a remodel. 1. Invest in Appliances That Elevate the SpaceAppliances are one of the biggest expenses in a kitchen, but they’re also one of the most powerful style statements. Choose wisely, and they’ll enhance the look of your kitchen for years. Range + Oven Combinations: A professional-grade range instantly makes your kitchen feel more substantial. Even if you don’t cook often, opt for at least a 36” range to give the space scale and presence. Color Options: We love statement-making ranges in color, but even if you stay classic in stainless, focus on proportions and details. Brands like Thermador Pro offer beautiful mid-range options that balance quality and cost. 2. Wrap Your Hood for a Custom LookA hood can make or break the look of your kitchen. Don’t just install a standard stainless steel option — wrap your hood insert with plaster, wood, or colored-metal to create a sculptural, architectural feature. This one detail instantly elevates the space and becomes a wow factor. Trust us — you’ll never regret the extra effort here. 3. Make Your Island a ShowstopperThe island is still the anchor of today’s kitchen — it’s where everyone gathers. Instead of treating it as a block of cabinets, treat it as a design moment. Add Interest: Incorporate fluting, shelving for cookbooks or pottery, or dramatic drawer fronts – oh and beautiful, bold hardware. Consider Shape: If space allows, an oval or curved island feels fresh and unexpected. Plan Seating First: Always map out the number of stools or chairs you want, then design the island to accommodate them comfortably. Extra seating at one end can make entertaining easier and give you much needed entertaining or family space. 4. Opt for Custom or Modern CabinetryIf your budget allows, custom cabinetry is always the best investment for fit, finish, and longevity. If not, there are stunning prefabricated options that still feel elevated. The key is to avoid styles that feel safe-but-dated. Flat-front or slab cabinetry keeps the look updated and keeps the kitchen from automatically feeling dated. Use your cabinetry as a backdrop, allowing your appliances, hood, and island to take center stage. 5. Mix Finishes & Don’t Shy Away from ColorOne of the easiest ways to date a kitchen is by sticking too rigidly to one finish or color. Designers love kitchens that feel collected and layered. Mix metals: Matte black, unlacquered brass, and polished nickel can all play together beautifully. Embrace color: White oak lower cabinets with deep green or robin’s egg blue uppers? Heavenly. Bold color choices feel timeless when paired with quality materials. Final Thoughts: Be Bold, Not BoringRemodeling a kitchen is a major investment, so don’t be afraid to make bold choices. Play with shape, scale, texture, and color. The safest choice isn’t always the best choice — and a designer can help you navigate what’s “bold but lasting” versus “trendy but fleeting.” If you’re dreaming of a remodel and want guidance on what to do (and what not to do), reach out to Ivory & Olive Decor. We’d love to help you create a kitchen that feels timeless, functional, and completely you.

Learn more
Design Details We’re Loving Right Now: Curves, Warm Tones & Lighting That Finishes the Space

Design Details We’re Loving Right Now: Curves, Warm Tones & Lighting That Finishes the Space

Design inspiration is everywhere right now — and as we head into late summer, we’re leaning into softness, warmth, and thoughtful lighting that adds both style and function. From sculptural shapes to upgraded exteriors, here’s what’s catching our eye and showing up in our latest projects. Curved & Sculptural SilhouettesThere’s something inherently elegant about a curve. From arched cabinetry (LOVE) and rounded sofas to gently sloped accent chairs and pedestal coffee tables, we’re seeing more organic shapes make their way into interiors — and the elegance is real.Curves add visual interest without being loud. They soften a room, invite movement, and create contrast when paired with clean-lined architecture. When rooms are too square, with so many sharp angles, a rounded dining table can change the entire dynamic and bring interest to a room by simply being round. See for yourself, try adding a curved bench at the end of the bed, a round dining table in a smaller space, or a sculptural mirror to make an entryway feel intentional and elevated. Warm Toned Furniture with DepthThe trend toward warmth is more than seasonal — it’s a full embrace of comfort and character. Think: camel caramel colored leather, oxblood velvet, burnished wood, and earthy hues like rust, honey, and espresso. These tones bring depth and richness to a room, especially when layered with textured fabrics or mixed finishes.We’ve been sourcing pieces with presence, like smokey glass, moody bar carts, boucle sofas in soft cinnamon tones, and accessories and moody lighting that anchor a space. Sconces as a Finishing LayerIf a room feels “almost done” but still missing something, it might be sconces.Wall sconces are the secret ingredient to a finished space. They provide ambient glow, highlight architectural details, and bring a sense of balance to artwork, mirrors, or open walls. We’re especially loving oversized or sculptural sconces that feel like art pieces themselves.Use them in unexpected places: flanking a headboard, above open shelving, lined on a hallway wall, and in powder rooms for a polished glow.Outdoor Lighting That Makes a StatementWe’ve said it before, curb appeal starts with lighting. If your outdoor fixtures feel dated or builder-grade, or more importantly, small, a swap to elevated pieces can instantly transform the entrance of your home.We love working with Hudson Valley Lighting for exterior fixtures. Their designs blend timeless craftsmanship with modern lines — perfect for California homes that blend coastal and classic styles.Here are a few of our current favorites: Troy Lighting “Beckham” Outdoor Pendant: Great for porch ceilings or entryways — sleek, dark bronze finish in a statement elongated modern shape that feels perfect on a California Spanish home. Hudson Valley’s “Huxley” Collection: Adds a fresh take on natural elements for hanging pendants that look amazing grouped together to make an outdoor living room everything you want it to be.  Hudson Valley Lighting “Laight” Wall Sconce: A modern nod to lantern-style fixtures with clean curves and clear glass. ✨ Pro Tip: When upgrading your exterior lights, don’t forget the side and garage doors — consistent lighting across all views creates cohesion and architectural flow. Inspiration, Brought HomeDesign is all about the layers... a curve here, a tone there, the perfect sconce to finish the scene. Whether you’re starting a full remodel or just looking to refresh a space, these trends offer easy ways to bring warmth, character, and intention into your home.Ready to update your space? Visit us in-store or reach out for a consultation; we’re happy to help you style the details that make a house feel like home.

Learn more