Laura Engen Interior Design

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Friday Five // What I'm Loving Right Now

This week, I’m dreaming of simple and practical solutions to our home - especially ones that don’t require a ton of money, have DIY potential, and feel timeless. After all, it IS a new season and now more than ever, we all deserve a little refresh. So, if you’re feeling in a rut design-wise, and want to make a few key changes that will give your space an instant upgrade on a smaller budget, check out my top five favorites below. I’ve got a feeling they’ll make your life a million times easier (and definitely more stylish, too!).

  1. Unique Banquettes 2. Baskets 3. White Bedding 4. Dipped Stools 5. Matching Frames

NO. 1 UNIQUE BANQUETTES

I love a good banquette - it's the perfect way to add more seating while packing a big style punch. You can, of course, pay top dollar for a custom-made area, but you can also totally DIY it all - you just need a few well-placed benches/chairs and a unique back rest like this suspended one. Instant beauty and comfort all in one!

NO. 2 BASKETS

In these quarantine times, it can feel like you're decluttering the house 957 times a day. Want a quick solution? Invest in a few baskets - with a quick sweep of the house, you can toss all of those stray toys, shoes, and books into one spot and stylishly tuck it away in a corner, leaving your space feeling oh-so-clean!

NO. 3 WHITE BEDDING

There's something about the arrival of spring that has me longing for a bedroom revamp, and nothing feels more fresh than crisp white bedding. The best part about a set like this, too, is that it can get a ton of use year-round. Simply swap out your throw pillows or blanket as each season rolls around and you've got a brand new look.

NO. 4 DIPPED STOOLS

Alright, how adorable are these dipped stools? Use them as plant stands, a spot to set your wine and book next to the bath, or even as extra seating in a pinch. And while you can totally splurge on these (set available for less than $200), you can also use it as DIY inspo - all you need are a couple of wooden stools and a can of your favorite paint!

NO. 5 MATCHING FRAMES

Mixing and matching doesn't always have to mean a gallery wall of contrasting frames. Sometimes, keeping the frame finishes identical, but changing up the sizes, can make a major decor pop. If you want a more streamlined neutral look for your space, definitely consider these beauties - the light wood feels ultra-Scandinavian and has the perfect blend of simplicity and class.


Any inexpensive DIY upgrades that are topping your list right now? Planning to hang a few shelves or sand down that side table you’ve been meaning to refinish for years? Now’s the perfect time to do it, no doubt. I’d love to know which projects you’ve been working on lately, so leave a comment below and fill me in. Who knows? I just may add it to my own weekend to-do list, too!