Like many people, there was a season where convenience felt practical. Faster felt easier. But I learned very quickly that a home filled quickly rarely feels deeply personal. Pieces chosen simply because they were available often lacked the character, craftsmanship, and emotional connection that make a space truly memorable.

Now, something has shifted.

Today, homeowners and designers alike are returning to something slower, more intentional, and far more personal: artisanal home décor.

In 2026, interior design is moving away from stark minimalism and fast trends (can we say: sustainability?!), and toward spaces that feel layered, personal, and enduring. Texture matters. Atmosphere matters. And perhaps most importantly, light matters—not just where it comes from, but how it moves through a space.

Layered lighting has become one of the most talked-about principles among designers right now, and for good reason. It’s the difference between a room that looks beautiful and one that feels inviting.

This year unfolded with intention — and with more growth than I could have imagined.

Discover the old-world artistry behind our hand-sewn lampshades — a couture craft stitched slowly, intentionally, and entirely by hand. In this piece, we explore why these heirloom techniques still matter, how they shape the way light lives in your home, and the quiet beauty found in choosing craftsmanship over convenience.

Set in the heart of Cincinnati’s Hyde Park Square, the art show was a celebration of craftsmanship, storytelling, and community — values that sit at the heart of Admiral Landings Designs. Being part of it for the first time was both humbling and invigorating. To be surrounded by so many talented artists, each pouring their vision into something tangible, was deeply inspiring. I felt that my own booth became a quiet haven of light — a space where people paused, smiled, and shared stories about the homes and lamps that mean the most to them.

When you’re designing for a smaller home, every decision counts. The color of a wall, the texture of a textile, the height of a lamp — each choice shapes how open, cozy, or luxurious a space feels. Lighting, in particular, can be your most transformative design tool.

Thoughtfully chosen lampshades can expand a room’s visual boundaries, define functional zones, and introduce depth and drama without overwhelming your surroundings. Here’s how to make your lighting work beautifully in smaller spaces.

From runway influences to heirloom interiors, discover why the home is no longer a backdrop, but the jewelry box of your life.

Fashion has long been the language of self-expression. From the way we choose fabrics, textures, and silhouettes, to the way we embrace personal style, clothing has always been a mirror of who we are (from the young to the old). But increasingly—especially among Gen X and Millennials—that mirror extends beyond the wardrobe and into the home. For these generations, interiors have become as much a marker of identity and lifestyle as fashion ever was.

One of the great pleasures of life after 40 is knowing what you like—and what you’re ready to leave behind. I have thoroughly enjoyed my early 40s because there’s a quiet confidence that comes with this season. I no longer feel the need to fill my home (or my life) with things that don’t bring joy, comfort, or beauty. Instead, I choose with intention—surrounding myself with pieces that feel like me.

And nothing transforms a space—or your mood—quite like good lighting.

In a world rapidly waking up to the consequences of fast furniture, there’s a quiet revolution unfolding—one rooted in intention, artistry, and sustainability. It's called slow interiors, and at the heart of it lies an often-overlooked yet transformative element: the handcrafted lampshade.

As a mother of three daughters, I know firsthand how much our children take in from their environment—and how seemingly small details can have the biggest emotional impact. When I began designing the lampshades that would eventually become the Little Landings by ALD™ collection, I wasn’t just thinking about colors and patterns (though of course, I love those too!). I was thinking about light—how it feels, how it guides us, and how it can help our little ones feel safe, calm, and connected.

If the thought of painting a wall marigold or upholstering your favorite chair in chartreuse makes you a little nervous (or nauseous), you're not alone. Color commitment issues are real. For years, neutrals and beiges have dominated Pinterest boards and builder-grade homes alike—but their reign is starting to fade. Bold new trends like color drenching and monochromatic palettes are stepping into the spotlight, encouraging homeowners to reimagine how color can live in a space. But here’s the thing: color doesn't have to be loud to be powerful.

The 1950s and 1960s were decades defined by optimism, innovation, and a fresh visual language in interior design. Lighting became more than just a source of illumination—it became sculpture, expression, and storytelling. At Admiral Landings Designs, we are continually inspired by the way this era blended beauty and function to create unforgettable spaces.

Now that the 2025 Met Gala has come and gone—with its stunning theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style”—I found myself diving deeper into the rich history of Black dandyism and its unexpected but beautiful connection to my own work. While watching the red carpet, listening to interviews, and digging deeper, the parallels between the art of tailoring and the slow craft behind the lampshades we create were undeniable. From hand-sewn gathers to carefully pleated knife folds, there’s a shared devotion to detail, to meaning, and to beauty. And it’s absolutely worth celebrating!

“…good lighting is like good makeup. It can highlight your best features and maybe even cleverly disguise a few flaws! 😉 Just like a photographer uses light to capture a stunning portrait, we can use lighting to create a home that feels warm, welcoming, and totally us.

Now, you might be thinking, "I'm no photographer!" But don't worry, it's not as complicated as it sounds. It all starts with understanding the three basic types of lighting: task, ambient, and accent - collectively known as layered lighting. Good lighting is about lighting in layers, lighting in planes: low, middle, and high. Let’s talk about how these types fit into each category.”

Ever wonder how some homes just seem to have that "it" factor? You know those dreamy homes you see on Instagram, the ones that make you double-tap that little red heart before you even realize it? Yeah, those!? How they achieve that effortless elegance that never goes out of style? Well, my friend, you're in luck! Today, I’m spilling the tea on creating a timeless home – a space that's both chic and enduring, without feeling like you've stepped into a furniture catalog.

Okay, let's be honest. You've poured your heart and soul into creating a beautiful home. You've picked out the perfect furniture, curated a stunning collection of art, and maybe even mastered the art of the perfectly placed throw pillow. But even with all of that effort, does something still feel... off? You're not alone. Here's a secret the design pros know: your lighting could be secretly sabotaging all your hard work.

We all know lamps brighten up a room, but are you truly harnessing their decorating superpower? At Admiral Landings Designs, we believe lamps and stylish shades are more than just functional - they're an opportunity to express your unique style and create a truly inviting atmosphere.

So, ditch the "one lamp per room" mindset and get ready to be illuminated by these creative ideas!

The age-old question of whether lampshades must match is an interesting one, and the answer is a simple, no! While matching lampshades can definitely create a cohesive and polished look, mixing and matching can elevate your space to new heights in ways you may not have considered.

Minimalism and maximalism may seem like opposing forces in the world of interior design. And many homeowners feel like they have to choose sides and go all in on one or the other, when they hear these terms. However, when balanced thoughtfully, they can create truly stunning and unique spaces.

In today's age of mass production and instant gratification, it's easy to fall into the trap of filling our homes with generic, cookie-cutter decor. While mass marketed merchandise can be beautiful, your home should be a reflection of your unique personality and style, instead of your favorite furniture showroom. Here are some tips to help you break free from the monotony of mass-market taste…