I have been scheming to create a reclaimed planked wall for several years, and finally got my chance when the talented couple behind Ashley & Robert's Streamlined Bohemian asked me to help them design their new Georgetown chocolate shop.

When I was asked to help two vivacious and fashion forward teenage sisters create the bedroom of their dreams, I was ecstatic...then terrified. They wanted "bold." Their generous parents wanted "reasonable."

Rustic wood and hot pink highlights usually run in separate circles, so it's quite a surprise to spot them mingling so brazenly in this Middleburg, Virginia converted barn. However, a peek into the barn's past reveals that the bold pairing is more about sentimental history than mere shock value.

We all know that mirrors are great for adding bling and indulging our vanity, but even more important than the mirror itself is where it's placed and what areas of the home it reflects. Even a simply-framed but perfectly-placed mirror has the magical quality of amplifying the good and capturing it like a photograph. Our house tours are full of inspiration!

One of the most frustrating aspects of a redesign is sorting through the throngs of "must haves" and "best splurges." Aside from kitchen and bath remodels— perks for re-sale and function— there is a mind-boggling amount of conflicting advice. All you redesign survivors, which ones have really been worth it?

Being known as somewhat of a decoraholic, I'm often the recipient of scads of gifts meant to beautify my domicile. But as I'm sure you already know, friends, there are really very few safe bet gifts for the decor obsessed because, afterall, we're a picky bunch. So what are those safe bets? Chime in!

Two years ago, finding myself frantically arranging heaps of festive plastic before our holiday party, I vowed that in the future I would decorate with simple, natural materials one day at a time. This year, I'm taking ques from a trip to Williamsburg, mecca of natural Christmas decor inspiration.

As someone who likes the idea of a home bursting with people but struggles with mess-induced OCD, I've fallen hard for anything that gets better with abuse age. Last week's feast and festivities sealed the deal— hardwearing all the way.

If there's one mantra pervading the entire shelter industry, it's avoid matchy-matchy at all costs. After all, variety is the spice of life. Well, a jog through the homes I've photographed for you over the past year revealed some of the most important lessons in mastering the art of the mix.

Specialty: Vintage Art and Furnishings

Price Range: ($$) Mid-Range

DC meets Paris flea market! Foundry is an upbeat mix of vintage and re-imagined decor — both refined and rugged — perfectly situated in DC's 14 St./U St. design corridor. Foundress and creative jack-of-all trades, Yvette Freeman, refreshes the store every two weeks with unique finds, artwork, and newly upholstered vintage furniture.