With more than a decade of experience in the design industry, Alexander Blake shares the principles behind elevated home style on the Northshore.
In 2026, what elements of interior design feel truly timeless? Antiques, beautiful lighting, antique brass, rich textures, thoughtful spacing, and skillful feng shui all contribute to interiors that feel timeless. Bright, stark white is out; black is in, along with bold colors. Wallpaper, and both abstract and landscape fine art, are making a comeback. Color palettes evolve year after year; all you need to know is what you like, and a great designer will handle the rest. Anything can feel timeless when you love it enough.
Are there any “safe” design choices that actually date a space faster than we realize? If using white, be sure to accentuate the space with fine art, accessories, and furnishings that enhance the aesthetic with visual intrigue. Chrome or nickel hardware can make a home look out of date faster. Millennial gray is out, as is color-drenching. Instead, you want the eye to move effortlessly from point to point, with every element serving a purpose and working in harmony with the overall design.
How are changing lifestyles influencing the way homes are designed in 2026? We see more office space for working from home, powder rooms for guests and entertainment, and a merging of maximalist stylings with minimalism. There’s a clear emphasis on making the home a haven—one that supports both relaxation and productivity in a balanced, non-intrusive way.
What is one functional design upgrade that homeowners don’t realize will dramatically improve their day-to-day living? Window treatments—simple or dramatic, motorized or traditional—play a major role in regulating natural light throughout the day and into the evening. Stylish privacy never goes out of style.
Where should homeowners splurge when working with a designer? It truly depends on the client. We work with the budget and let the client decide. Some people like to spend a little extra on custom furnishings for comfort and design cohesiveness. Others enjoy enhancing their space by splurging on fine art, lighting, or antiques. We are of the opinion that homeowners should splurge on what they absolutely love and cannot imagine living without.
What factors should homeowners consider when setting an interior design budget? Consider the number of rooms needing to be done. Remember to take into consideration scheduling and time management. Behind the scenes, it's more than just choosing selections from floor to ceiling; it's curation, planning, development, and so much more. Give yourself a little wiggle room in anticipation of anything unforeseen.
What’s one way homeowners can make their space feel custom without a full renovation? Update paint colors, furnishings, and accessories, or change a few lights to accentuate the space, creating a brand new vibe.
What are the most common (and costly) mistakes homeowners make when they design without professional guidance? Non-cohesive textures, materials, and color combinations; misaligned budgets; poor planning; and incorrect measurements. A professional helps prevent all of these.
What defines your design philosophy at Greige Home Interiors? Why settle for ordinary when distinction awaits? Inspiration and expression of style is the investment of a lifetime, born from our love of quality.
How do you want clients to feel when they walk into a home you’ve designed? We hope our clients feel excited, and that our services provide a true reflection of who they are, what they love, and how they live. We want them to find a place of peace, relaxation, and serenity that is deeply personal and lovely.
If a homeowner could take just one design principle to carry through 2026, what should it be? Lean on experienced professionals, and stay true to what you love when designing and styling your home.
“Why settle for ordinary when distinction awaits? Inspiration and expression of style is the investment of a lifetime, born from our love of quality.”