Spring has officially arrived, and with it comes a fresh wave of inspiration. We’ve been diving into House & Garden Magazine’s September issue and found ourselves captivated by the Future Proof feature — a story that feels especially aligned with the way we think about timeless, thoughtful design at Living By Design.

The article follows the journey of a family embarking on a renovation that perfectly balances respect for heritage with a desire for modern, coastal-inspired living. Their architect, Aydan Doherty of Design by AD, was tasked with creating a home that felt soft, contemporary, and enduring. The brief was to avoid stark contrasts and heavy minimalism, instead embracing a light palette layered with natural textures and finishes.

It’s a philosophy we  share at Living By Design. We’ve long been drawn to the elegance of natural timbers, soft hues + coastal calm - creating interiors that feel both grounded and elevated.

Our Breton Round Dining Table in Birch Ash embodies the essence of this aesthetic. With its light timber-inspired tone and refined simplicity, it complements a coastal interior effortlessly. Paired with the natural Saddle Tan vegan leather from our dining chair collection, the Breton becomes a piece that invites gathering, conversation, and timeless style.

For the bedroom, our Cammeray Rounded Top Bed in Terrace White Boucle offers that same blend of heritage charm and contemporary softness. Pair it with layers of our French linen cushions + throws in neutral, washed tones, and you’ll find a look that nods to tradition while feeling undeniably fresh and modern.

By avoiding stark contrasts and leaning into softer, natural tones, you get a home that feels calm, cohesive, and ready for the future- creating spaces that respect their history while still feeling light, warm, and easy to live in. As the House & Garden feature shows, design doesn’t have to be loud to make an impact - subtle details, balance + natural beauty make a home truly memorable.