There is something magical that happens when you walk into a room lined with books. The air feels quieter, richer, and more intentional. In our work as Portland interior designers, we find that bookcases are never just storage; they are architecture, personality, and memory all rolled into one. Whether it is an expansive home library …
Continue reading “The Art of the Bookcase: Creating Warm, Collected Spaces”
“Is this going to feel dated in five years?” At Allison Smith Design, that is one of the first questions we ask ourselves on every project. Your home is your sanctuary, and we consider it a privilege to design it in a way that feels beautiful not just today, but for many seasons of your …
Continue reading “Why Timelessness Should Be Your Interior Design Foundation”
If you’ve been scrolling through design inspiration lately, you’ve probably noticed rooms that feel completely wrapped in a single color—walls, trim, ceiling, even cabinetry all saturated in the same hue. That immersive look has a name: “color drenching”. And when done thoughtfully, it’s one of the most powerful tools for creating mood, character, and cohesion …
Continue reading “Color Drenching: Maximalist Color, Thoughtful Design”
When people think about refreshing their home, the first thing that often comes to mind is a full remodel. Tearing out kitchens, reworking floor plans, or starting from scratch can feel like the only way to truly transform a space. But in reality, some of the most impactful changes don’t require construction dust, months of …
Continue reading “You Don’t Need a Full Remodel to Make Your Home Feel New Again”
For many millennials, the idea of buying a home feels increasingly out of reach. Skyrocketing prices, limited inventory, and economic uncertainty have raised the question of whether homeownership is even possible at all. However, another shift is happening. More millennials are becoming homeowners not through traditional purchasing, but through inheritance. Homes that have held decades …
Continue reading “Design Across Generations: Updating Family Homes with History”
Every new year brings a fresh wave of inspiration to the world of interiors, and we are so excited to share what we think will be the dominant trends of 2026. 2025 was about modern aesthetics with a nod to classic influences, and 2026 will take those ideas further, but with a touch of whimsy. …
Continue reading “Looking Ahead: Interior Design Trends to Watch in 2026”
Oregon State Credit Union (OSCU) is partnering with Portland-based firms Allison Smith Design and Lorentz Bruun Construction to construct their newest location in Wilsonville, highlighting the power of local collaboration and community connection. This initiative brings together Oregon professionals who share a deep commitment to quality, integrity, and service. By working with local partners, OSCU …
Continue reading “Oregon State Credit Union and Allison Smith Design Collaborate on Inspired Spaces”
Artificial intelligence has made its way into almost every creative industry, and interior design is no exception. With the rise of AI-powered tools that generate room layouts, color palettes, and even mood boards at the speed of a few keystrokes, it’s easy to see what makes this an attractive option for people wanting to refresh …
Continue reading “Is Artificial Intelligence a Viable Substitute for an Interior Designer?”
If there is one universal truth about interior design, it is that what’s old always becomes “new” again. Any trend that defines a specific time period tends to circle back around. Sometimes it comes back with a new name, a unique perspective, or a modern tweak. Right now, we’re watching one of these cycles unfold …
Continue reading “From Shabby Chic to Grandmillennial Interior Design: A Revival”
Lake Oswego, Oregon is known for its natural beauty, mature greenery, affluent neighborhoods, and refined lifestyle. As a result, interior design in Lake Oswego reflects a balance between elegance, functionality, and a connection to the surrounding lakeside environment. Homeowners in Lake Oswego seek designs that harmonize with the natural landscape while reflecting their personal style …
