As both an experienced interior designer and licensed real estate agent serving Fairfield County's most discerning homeowners for over a decade, I bring a truly unique perspective to home transformation. My dual expertise allows me to approach each design project with both an artistic vision and a data-driven understanding of what truly adds value in our distinctive luxury market. While national trends provide general guidance, Fairfield County has its own unique preferences that savvy homeowners should consider before renovating or redesigning their spaces.

Understanding Fairfield County's Luxury Market Through a Designer-Agent Lens

My work spans the coastal elegance of Greenwich and Westport to the classic New England charm of New Canaan and Ridgefield. As both the designer who creates these spaces and the agent who often sells them, I've developed an intimate understanding of which design elements command premium prices in our market. Buyers here expect sophisticated interiors that balance traditional architectural integrity with modern amenities and aesthetics.

Through my real estate transactions and design projects, I've documented that luxury properties in Fairfield County with thoughtful, high-end interior design sell approximately 27% faster and command 15-20% higher prices than comparable homes with dated interiors. This data directly informs my design approach for every client, whether they're planning to sell immediately or simply investing wisely in their forever home.

Top ROI Interior Design Investments for Fairfield County Homes

1. Kitchen Transformations: The Heart of ROI

As both designer and agent in Fairfield County's luxury market, I've seen kitchens remain the single most valuable interior design investment. My clients consistently see returns of 70-80% on kitchen renovations, with certain design elements delivering even higher value:

• Custom cabinetry with specialized storage solutions - Particularly cabinetry that complements the architectural style of older homes while incorporating modern functionality

• Statement kitchen islands with seating - Essential for entertaining in our socially-connected communities

• Professional-grade appliances tastefully integrated - Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Miele are particularly valued by Fairfield County buyers

• Natural stone countertops - With quartzite and honed marble currently outperforming polished granite in return on investment

Designer-Agent Insight: In Greenwich and Westport properties I've both designed and previewed, kitchens opening to water views or private gardens command particularly strong returns. My design approach focuses on creating visual connections between these spaces through consistent material palettes and sightlines, while my real estate expertise confirms these designs translate to faster sales and higher offers.

2. Primary Bathroom Sanctuaries

My combined data from design projects and real estate transactions shows that primary bathroom renovations in Fairfield County luxury homes typically return 60-68% of investment costs, with certain design elements proving especially valuable:

• Freestanding soaking tubs - Particularly in homes in Fairfield County

• Expanded shower experiences - Multi-head showers with frameless glass enclosures

• Heated flooring - Almost considered a necessity in our Connecticut climate

• Double vanities with custom storage - Functionality that buyers expect in luxury homes

Designer-Agent Insight: My clients in Fairfield County increasingly request wellness-focused bathroom elements like steam showers and heated flooring. When listing homes where I've designed these features, I've seen buyers willing to increase offers specifically for thoughtfully designed spa-like bathrooms that blend seamlessly with the home's architecture.

3. Flexible Spaces for Work and Life

Since 2020, the demand for adaptable living spaces has permanently transformed Fairfield County's luxury market. My dual perspective confirms that design investments in these areas typically return 65-70% of costs:

• Dedicated home offices with thoughtful video conferencing setups - Particularly valuable in communities like Westport, Darien and Greenwich with high percentages high powered executives.

• Multi-purpose rooms that can transition between guest rooms, home gyms, and hobby spaces

• Finished basements with premium materials - No longer afterthoughts, these spaces now command premium design attention

Designer-Agent Insight: I've developed a signature approach to creating multi-functional spaces that don't feel like compromises. By incorporating modular furniture systems, thoughtful lighting zones, and acoustical treatments, my designs allow spaces to transition seamlessly between different functions. When showing these homes, I can immediately point out these flexible features that today's buyers specifically request during their property searches.

4. Indoor-Outdoor Living Extensions

My combined experience confirms that Fairfield County's appreciation for all four seasons makes indoor-outdoor connections particularly valuable, returning approximately 65-75% of investment:

• Three-season rooms with heating elements - Extending Connecticut's outdoor living season

• Covered outdoor kitchens and dining areas - Particularly valuable in Greenwich and Westport waterfront properties

• Thoughtfully designed mudrooms - Essential for managing New England's seasonal transitions

Designer-Agent Insight: In Greenwich, Rowayton, Darien and Westport waterfront properties, my design approach focuses on creating material continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces. When representing buyers, I've witnessed them respond emotionally to these seamless transitions, often making their purchase decision the moment they experience how these designs connect with water views or landscaped gardens.

5. Smart Home Integration

While technology can quickly become outdated, my market data confirms certain smart home investments deliver strong returns in Fairfield County's luxury market, approximately 60-65% ROI:

• Integrated lighting systems - Particularly those highlighting architectural features

• Discreet climate control systems - Especially valuable in historic homes

• Automated window treatments - Both practical and luxurious

Designer-Agent Insight: The key to ROI with smart home features is selecting systems that blend seamlessly with traditional architecture and can be easily updated as technology evolves. During property showings, I can immediately point out to buyers how these thoughtfully integrated systems enhance daily living without creating technological barriers for future owners.

Lower ROI Design Investments to Approach with Caution

My dual expertise has identified design investments that rarely deliver equal returns in Fairfield County's luxury market:

• Highly personalized color schemes - While on-trend neutral palettes increase value, bold color choices may limit appeal

• Overly customized built-ins - Especially those designed for very specific purposes

• Ultra-high-end appliances in secondary spaces - Premium laundry appliances, for instance, rarely deliver returns comparable to their kitchen counterparts

• Ornate moldings and details inconsistent with the home's architectural style - Particularly in mid-century modern homes in New Canaan

Conclusion: The Value of Combined Design and Real Estate Expertise

As both designer and agent, I approach each Fairfield County project with a comprehensive understanding of how design choices impact both daily living and long-term value. My designs focus on creating spaces that enhance functionality, embrace indoor-outdoor connections, and respect the unique character of our communities, while my real estate expertise ensures these choices align with market preferences.

This dual perspective allows me to offer clients something truly unique: interior design that beautifully enhances their daily lives while simultaneously making sound financial investments in their property's future value. The right design investments not only create more beautiful living experiences but also protect and enhance your home's position in Connecticut's competitive luxury market.

Connecticut's landscape of historic architecture and natural splendor provides the ideal backdrop for New Traditional design. From stately colonials to charming coastal cottages, our regional homes possess inherent character that deserves to be preserved while being thoughtfully updated for today's lifestyle demands.

Our signature New Traditional approach includes:

• Pairing heirloom pieces with contemporary upholstery, breathing new life into cherished classics

• Enhancing architectural integrity through thoughtful millwork, built-ins, and trim details

• Creating textural complexity through deliberate layering of natural materials, textiles, and finishes

• Cultivating a collected aesthetic through carefully curated patterns, art, and accessories that tell a personal story

One of Connecticut's greatest treasures is its distinct seasonal beauty. From the golden warmth of autumn to the lush abundance of summer, our region invites us to embrace outdoor living throughout the year. Your exterior spaces deserve the same thoughtful design approach as your interiors.

Picture starting your morning with coffee on a classically-detailed porch, hosting evening gatherings around a stone fire pit, or enjoying family meals beneath a pergola adorned with both traditional lanterns and modern string lights. These outdoor extensions of your home become memorable settings for life's everyday moments.

Transform your exterior spaces with these New Traditional outdoor design elements:

• Create intimate conversation areas with weather-resistant furnishings that blend classic silhouettes with modern performance fabrics

• Incorporate timeless elements like stone fireplaces or copper fire bowls that develop beautiful patina over time

• Design garden beds that honor traditional principles while incorporating sustainable native plantings

• Layer outdoor lighting—from traditional copper lanterns to contemporary LED path lights—creating ambiance and extending outdoor enjoyment into evening hours

• Establish an alfresco dining area that balances comfort and sophistication with a mix of classic and contemporary elements

At Jackie Christman Design, we specialize in creating homes that feel authentic, comfortable, and timelessly relevant. Our New Traditional approach honors architectural integrity while ensuring modern functionality. We believe thoughtfully designed spaces should reflect not just aesthetic preferences but also how you truly live and what you value.

Whether you're looking to refresh a single room, reimagine your entire home, or create an outdoor sanctuary, we bring a discerning eye and passion for blending periods, styles, and influences to create spaces that are both timeless and distinctly yours.

As an experienced interior designer in Fairfield County, CT, I understand that every design choice impacts both aesthetics and functionality. When it comes to bedroom lighting, wall sconces are a sophisticated and space-saving solution that enhances the ambiance while providing practical illumination for reading or relaxing. But the question I often get from my clients is: "What is the perfect height for a sconce next to a bed?" Let’s dive into the details!

Ideal Sconce Height for Comfort and Style

The ideal height for bedside sconces depends on a few key factors, including the bed’s height, the size of the sconce, and its intended use. However, a general rule of thumb is:

Placement Height: Mount the sconce between 55 to 65 inches from the floor to the center of the fixture. This ensures the light source is at an appropriate level for both sitting up in bed and lying down.

Distance from the Bed: The sconce should be positioned about 8 to 12 inches from the bedside edge to provide adequate lighting without overwhelming the space.

Adjusting for Bed Height: If you have a taller headboard or a platform bed, adjust accordingly so that the sconce is approximately 18 to 24 inches above the mattress for optimal lighting.

Key Considerations for Luxurious & Functional Design

• Dimmable Lighting: Installing dimmable sconces allows you to adjust brightness depending on the time of day and mood.

• Swing Arm vs. Fixed Sconces: Swing-arm sconces provide flexibility for reading, while fixed sconces offer a cleaner, more streamlined look.

• Matching with the Overall Design: The sconce style should complement the room’s decor.

Final Thoughts

Getting the height of your bedside sconces just right can elevate your bedroom’s style while ensuring the perfect balance of functionality and elegance. If you're looking to create a well-lit, luxurious retreat in your Fairfield County home, I’d love to help you bring your vision to life.

Need expert interior design guidance? Contact me at Jackie Christman Design to create a space tailored to your lifestyle!

Once considered a hallmark of traditional interiors, mural wallpapers are making a grand comeback—but with a fresh, modern twist. No longer reserved for stately manors and old-world dining rooms, today’s mural wallpapers have been reimagined with whimsical patterns, abstract compositions, and artistic brushstrokes that blend effortlessly with contemporary design elements. The result? A sophisticated yet layered aesthetic that perfectly embodies the emerging style known as New Traditional.

The Evolution of Mural Wallpapers

Historically, mural wallpapers featured grand landscapes, pastoral scenes, and intricate chinoiserie motifs, serving as a backdrop to formal furnishings and heavy drapery. While these timeless elements still hold their appeal, modern interpretations have taken a more artistic and playful turn. From dreamy watercolor washes to bold graphic prints, mural wallpapers now serve as statement pieces, injecting personality and depth into a space.

Balancing the Old and the New

One of the most exciting aspects of this revival is the way mural wallpapers are being paired with a mix of antique, sleek, and contemporary elements to create a truly curated space. Instead of overwhelming a room with overtly traditional décor, today’s designers are embracing a layered approach:

• Antique Furniture with a Modern Edge – Classic pieces, such as gilded mirrors or vintage case goods, are juxtaposed with clean-lined furniture to maintain a sense of balance and contrast.

• Sleek and Minimalist Accents – Contemporary lighting, sculptural furnishings, and minimalist silhouettes keep the space feeling fresh and relevant.

• Contemporary Art and Unexpected Pairings – Bold abstract paintings or striking photography create an intriguing dialogue between past and present, preventing the space from feeling too nostalgic.

Where to Use Mural Wallpapers

While mural wallpapers can work in almost any space, they are particularly impactful in the following areas:

• Dining Rooms & Living Rooms – A statement mural can add drama and sophistication to spaces meant for entertaining.

• Bedrooms – Soft, dreamy murals create an immersive and serene retreat.

• Entryways & Hallways – These often-overlooked spaces can become dynamic focal points with the right mural design.

• Powder Rooms – A small yet bold application of mural wallpaper can make a lasting impression in an unexpected way.

Embracing New Traditional in Your Home

The New Traditional aesthetic is all about blending eras, textures, and styles to create a home that feels both timeless and personal. Whether you’re drawn to delicate chinoiserie, moody landscapes, or abstract murals, incorporating this trend into your space can instantly elevate your interior. By mixing mural wallpapers with antique finds, modern silhouettes, and thoughtfully curated artwork, you can craft an elegant yet livable space that speaks to the past while embracing the present.

Are you ready to bring this timeless yet contemporary trend into your home? Contact Jackie Christman Design to explore how we can create a New Traditional look tailored just for you.

Fairfield County is known for its sophisticated style, blending classic New England charm with modern luxury. As we move into 2025, homeowners are seeking ways to refresh their spaces with both timeless and trendy elements. Whether you're planning a full-scale renovation or a simple update, these top interior design trends will help you elevate your home.

1. Warm Neutrals & Earthy Tones

Crisp whites and cool grays are taking a backseat to warmer neutrals like taupe, sandy beige, and creamy off-whites. Accents of terracotta, olive green, and deep browns bring an inviting, organic feel to any space. These hues work beautifully in Fairfield County’s coastal and suburban homes, adding warmth without overwhelming the design.

2. Statement Stone & Natural Materials

Marble and quartzite are making bold statements in kitchens and bathrooms. Homeowners are gravitating towards dramatic veining and unique stone finishes, giving countertops and backsplashes a high-end, custom feel. Pairing these with natural wood cabinetry or matte black hardware enhances the organic aesthetic.

3. Curved & Sculptural Furniture

Goodbye, sharp edges! Soft, rounded furniture is making a comeback, from curved sofas to sculptural coffee tables. This trend embraces comfort and fluidity, creating a welcoming atmosphere that complements both modern and traditional Fairfield County interiors.

4. Layered Textures for Depth & Interest

Adding dimension through layered textures is key in 2025. Think boucle fabrics, woven rattan, linen drapes, and textured wall treatments like plaster or grasscloth wallpaper. These elements bring a sense of coziness while keeping the design elevated.

5. Functional & Stylish Home Offices

With remote work still prevalent, home offices are evolving into curated, design-forward spaces rather than makeshift desks in spare rooms. Built-in shelving, statement lighting, and comfortable yet stylish seating are essential for a productive yet visually appealing workspace.

6. Spa-Like Bathrooms for Everyday Luxury

Bathrooms are transforming into tranquil retreats with freestanding tubs, oversized walk-in showers, and mood lighting. Homeowners are investing in high-end materials, heated floors, and smart technology to enhance their daily routines.

7. Personalized & Collected Interiors

The trend of overly staged, cookie-cutter interiors is fading. In 2025, homeowners are embracing personalized, curated spaces that reflect their personalities. Think vintage finds, family heirlooms, and custom-made furniture that tell a story.

Ready to Elevate Your Home?

If you’re inspired to refresh your Fairfield County home with these 2025 design trends, let’s bring your vision to life! As an experienced interior designer, I specialize in creating beautiful, functional spaces tailored to your lifestyle. Contact me today for a consultation and let’s transform your home!

A well-styled coffee table can be the focal point that ties your living space together. Whether your style leans toward sleek and modern or cozy and inviting, we’re here to help you perfect the look.  We are sharing our tried-and-true tips for creating a beautifully styled coffee table. From choosing the right accessories to striking a balance between decorative elements, we’ll guide you through the steps to achieve a polished, curated aesthetic. Think of your coffee table as a blank canvas—these four simple tips will help you transform it into a stylish and inviting centerpiece. 

• Balance: Creating balance is about achieving harmony in your layout. Symmetry often works well, like placing books, vases, and smaller objects evenly on either side. Grouping items in odd numbers can also add a more dynamic feel. Step back and view your table from different angles to make sure everything looks just right. 

• Texture: Adding texture is key to making your coffee table visually engaging. Try mixing materials like woven baskets, ceramic vases, and textured decorative boxes. These tactile elements add warmth and depth, making the arrangement more interesting and inviting. 

• Height: Varying the heights of your decor pieces creates a layered, visually intriguing arrangement. Pair a tall vase filled with greenery alongside shorter items like stacked books or low-profile decorations. Candlesticks or taller pieces are great for adding height and dimension to the display. 

• Greenery: Incorporating fresh flowers or greenery brings life and freshness to your coffee table. Whether you go for real plants or high-quality faux options, greenery softens the overall look and adds a touch of nature’s beauty to your space. 

Your living room is the heart of your home – a space where you relax, entertain guests, and create lasting memories. One of the most impactful ways to transform its ambiance is through the careful selection of color schemes. From serene neutrals to vibrant hues, the colors you choose can set the tone for your entire living space. Let’s explore our expert tips and tricks to help you navigate the world of color and create a harmonious and inviting living room that reflects your personal style. When selecting a color scheme for your living room, it's crucial to consider your existing décor elements, including furniture, flooring, and architectural features. Take note of dominant colors and textures in your space and choose a color palette that complements and enhances these elements rather than competing with them. For example, if you have a neutral-colored sofa, you might opt for accent pillows or wall art in complementary or contrasting shades to add visual interest without overpowering the room. When incorporating multiple colors into your living room design, strive for balance and proportion to create a cohesive and visually pleasing space. A common rule of thumb is the 60-30-10 rule, where 60% of the room's color comes from the dominant hue, 30% from the secondary hue, and 10% from accent colors. This guideline helps create a sense of harmony and prevents overwhelming the space with too many competing colors. Once you've finalized your color scheme, it's time to add the finishing touches that tie the room together. Consider incorporating accessories like throw pillows, decorative accessories and artwork in complementary colors to enhance the overall look and feel of your room. Don't forget to experiment with different textures and patterns to add depth and dimension to your design.

There are so many gorgeous white paint colors to explore. Benjamin Moore's "Simply White OC117" is one of my favorites. Its clean, bright, and adapts well to various designs.

In this blog post, we'll explore why the height of a chandelier over a dining table matters and offer some practical recommendations to help you strike the right balance.