Between the Layers | Design Guide Series
SUBSCRIBE
Design

An Industrial Take on New York City Living

After sharing last month’s Paris Loft location design (and seeing how much it resonated), we started getting the same message over and over again: Can you do New York next? Honestly, I can’t believe we hadn’t done it sooner. We’ve explored Upstate before, but the city itself is an entirely different rhythm. The walk-ups. The brownstones. The industrial bones that make these spaces feel instantly iconic.

I was in New York late last year for a quick 24-hour trip with a dear friend and her son who’s attending school there. We packed in every second. It had been a while since I’d visited, and I forgot just how palpable the energy is. We wandered through SoHo, soaked in the holiday windows, and just walked … which is truly the best way to experience the city. I’ve always dreamed of living there. Those days may have passed, but a girl can still dream, right?

SoHo street scene in New York City featuring classic cast-iron architecture, white fire escapes, boutique storefronts, cobblestone street, and a vintage green car parked along the curb.
Photo: Pinterest

New York interiors have a very specific rhythm to them. These homes are rarely oversized, which means every design decision has to be intentional. There’s no room for filler pieces or half-baked ideas. You choose a direction and commit. At the same time, there’s this unspoken desire to honor the city itself: the fast pace, the edge, the polish, the New York minute lifestyle that somehow blends grit with glamour and ambition with restraint.

These monthly location designs allow us to step into a mindset, not just a zip code—to explore how architecture, lifestyle, and energy influence the way a space should feel. It’s part creative exercise, part storytelling, and part love letter to the cities that inspire us.


New York industrial foyer mood board featuring a black round pedestal table, red checkered runner rug, brass chandelier, abstract neutral artwork, and layered brown tones with fashion accents.

Ottoman | Mushroom Lamp | Pedestal Table | Checkered Rug | Artwork | Chandelier | Ashtray | Catchall Dish |

Coat | Chocolate Slides | Sunglasses | Earrings | Watch

THE FOYER: Where the Story Starts

If there’s one space in a New York home that deserves more attention, it’s the foyer. I will always aspire to Miranda Priestly’s foyer in Devil Wear’s Prada. Remember when Andrea (Anne Hathaway) has to drop off “The Book?” I couldn’t help but rewind that scene a dozen times to take in all its glorious details. And, while this vibe is a little edgier than hers, the idea is the same: an NYC foyer is a “moment” and really sets the scene for the rest of the space.

Photo: Pinterest

It’s rarely grand. It’s often narrow. But, it sets the tone instantly — and in a city where every square foot matters, that first impression has to feel intentional.

For this design, I wanted to lean into the classic New York contrast: grit + polish. Industrial bones softened with warmth.

The anchor is the round black pedestal table, which gives the entry a strong center point without taking up too much space. To soften the darker tones, we layered in the cream mushroom lamp — the easiest way to make an entry feel warm and elevated. Lighting like this is what makes a space feel styled instead of unfinished.

Above, the bronze chandelier adds that subtle “New York glamour.” Even in a small foyer, a sculptural light fixture instantly makes the space feel chic.

Brass chandelier with curved arms and brown metal shades

Look at this red checkered runner rug. It’s graphic, bold, and a little unexpected. And, to balance that boldness, we kept the artwork quiet and tonal. The artwork adds softness and depth without competing with the rest of the room. The idea is go big in scale on artwork! The bigger to fill a wall the better.

And finally, the details: the velvet ottomans, the brick texture, the small vintage-inspired accessories. These are the pieces that make the foyer feel collected rather than staged.


Industrial New York dining room mood board with black pedestal dining table, zebra hide rug, polka dot velvet pillow, tortoise acrylic coasters, blue napkins, brass wall sconce, and moody olive backdrop.

Tortoise Coasters | Polka Dot Pillow | Zebra Rug | Dish Sconce | Deep Olive Rug |Dining Table | Napkins | Leather Chair | Platter | Gloves | Camel Dress

THE DINING ROOM: Moody, Collected, and Intentional

If the foyer sets the tone, the dining room deepens it.

For this space, the foundation is the deep olive rug. Darker rugs are one of my favorite tricks in city-inspired interiors — they make everything feel richer.

The key is saturation without trendiness. Think museum tones. Think depth.

Photo: Pinterest

At the center, we anchored the room with the black round dining table. I almost always lean round in tighter spaces (it softens the layout and encourages conversation). On one wall, a pair of brass dome sconces keeps the space feeling architectural. 

The zebra-patterned rug accent (we are predicting A LOT of animal print for 2026) adds that unexpected energy. Animal print in New York doesn’t feel too loud to me. Afterall, this is NYC! If zebra feels bold, look for a graphic stripe rug or a high-contrast neutral rug! Then we brought in a soft, playful contrast with the polka dot velvet pillow. That small detail adds texture and a little bit of whimsy and keeps the room from feeling too serious.

Beige velvet lumbar pillow with oversized black polka dot pattern

And then there’s the styling moment that elevates everything: the black pedestal dish on the table. It’s a reminder that not every table needs a full floral arrangement. Sometimes one strong form is enough. We layered in the tortoise acrylic coasters for a little nod to vintage glamour and a fun pop with the blue napkins(how chic would a dinner party be with these?!)

Dark brown distressed leather dining chair with curved metal frame, tubular legs, and a sleek, industrial silhouette.

We finished the space with metal-framed dining chairs — that slight industrial edge keeps the room from drifting too traditional or formal.

And finally, the wall color — something in that muted grey-green family (like F&B Ash Grey). It’s moody but not dramatic. Sophisticated but restrained.


Cozy industrial New York bedroom mood board with upholstered brown bed, cane room divider, blue nightstand, patterned pillows, checkered towels, chic striped dog bed, and large steel-framed windows.

Woven Screen | Nightstand | Lamp | Rug | Curved Bed | Towels | Throw Pillows | Vases | Dog Bed | Denim Jeans | Polo Sweater

THE BEDROOM: A Cozy Sanctuary with City Edge

In a New York home, the bedroom isn’t just a bedroom — it’s a sanctuary.

When the city is loud, fast, and constantly moving, your bedroom has to feel like the opposite. It should feel calming, cozy, and intentional … but still reflect the energy of the space you’re living in. That balance is what makes New York design so special.

Photo: Pinterest

For this room, the anchor is the curved upholstered bed, which immediately softens the industrial elements and wraps you in a hug after a long day in the city that never sleeps. I love a rounded silhouette in city spaces because it creates a sense of comfort, even when the architecture is bold and structured.

The palette is warm and grounded (taupes, creams, soft browns) because cozy always starts with color. But what keeps it from feeling too safe is the mix of texture and contrast.

The night stand is one of those pieces that adds personality without overwhelming the room.

In a studio-style home (or even an open bedroom layout), a divider is such an underrated way to create that “New York apartment” feeling. It instantly makes the space feel layered and intentional — and more importantly, it creates zones.

That’s the secret to designing smaller spaces: you don’t need more square footage… you need better boundaries.

Photo: ABD Studio

Speaking of industrial, those large black-framed glass windows are the dream. The ultimate NYC fantasy.

And, because we’re always designing for real life — if you have a dog, this is the space to add a chic dog bed that feels intentional rather than like an afterthought. 

Design note: This bedroom is proof that cozy doesn’t have to mean traditional. You can embrace softness, warmth, and comfort while still honoring the industrial bones that make New York spaces feel so iconic.


New York winter fashion mood board featuring wide-leg denim, Ralph Lauren polo sweater, red leather gloves, camel knit dress, floral statement coat, oversized sunglasses, moon boots, and crystal earrings.

Denim Jeans | Polo Sweater | Red Gloves | Moon Boot | Sunglasses | Chocolate Slides | Earrings | Camel Dress | Coat | Watch

WHAT I’D WEAR: New York, On the Go

New York style is about movement. You’re walking, you’re meeting, you’re grabbing coffee. And, you’re running errands — but you’re doing it with purpose (and the occasional last minute- lets grab a cocktail with friends”).

I kept thinking about the Ralph Lauren Polo Bar while pulling this together. I swear everyone was going this winter and I’m dying to book a table. (We did go to Cipriani’s downtown. It. Was. A. Whole. Vibe. and now I’m dying to go back — the artwork, the flowers at the bar, the lighting all of it!

The Pieces

The Polo sweater feels like the ultimate New York staple. Classic! And paired with structured denim, it’s “running errands” but elevated. There’s no underdressing here. In New York, even casual has a point of view.

Long tailored coat in deep brown with oversized golden floral print and notched lapels.

This coat. I love this patterned coat so much! It’s the kind of piece that does all the work for you. Same with the red leather gloves. They’re unexpected and confident; that little flash of red feels very city.

Pair of white gold diamond cluster drop earrings featuring mixed-cut stones in a cascading geometric design.

And these earrings? They’re currently sitting in my cart and I’m this close to purchasing. Where can I wear them??

Heading into spring, I’m leaning toward knit dresses — especially this camel sleeveless turtleneck dress. It feels like the perfect transition piece. Layer it now with boots and a coat, then swap for loafers or sandals later. 

If you want the full roundup, shop on our LTK here!


When people hear “industrial,” they often think cold. Exposed brick. Steel. Concrete. Hard edges.

But industrial really refers to the bones. It’s the structure, the architecture, the framework of a space. Think tall ceilings, oversized windows, and raw materials. This is our take on how to soften those bones.

You don’t fight the architecture — you complement it. Warm wood against steel. Velvet against brick. That tension is what makes it interesting.

Our hope with these posts is that you don’t just see a pretty mood board—you walk away with ideas, clarity, and confidence. Whether you live in a tiny apartment, a brownstone, or just love the look of New York living, we want these designs to spark something and remind you that great design is always about intention, no matter the square footage.

1

The Foyer

Granada Round Mahogany Wood Dining Table
Round Ashtray of Ice Textured Clear Glass
Anya Brown Swirled Resin Catchall
Janie Portable Lamp
Rasali Checkered Box Rug
Uzor Spice Performance Velvet Rectangular Ottoman
‘Reverence’ Canvas Art Print
Hudson St. Chandelier
2

The Dining Room

Natural Brazilian Cowhide Area Rug
Chiavari Leather Arm Chair
Garden Party Embroidered Edge Napkins
Handmade Velvet Throw Pillow
Tortoiseshell Coasters
Brass Half Dome Wall Sconce
Relevé Platter
Raita Hand-Knotted Wool Rug
Roseau Charcoal Black Wood Extendable Dining Table
3

The Bedroom

Tori Handcrafted Screen
Mimi Table Lamp
Striped Pillow and Lounger Dog Bed
Adelaide Upholstered King Bed
Purple Boho Pillow Cover
Large Irregular Stoneware Vase
Mason Two-Tone Towels
Saje Wool Shag Rug in Neutral
4

What I'd Wear

Kate Leather Gloves
Luna Pieced Jeans
Linden Coat
Hollywood Cluster Climber Earrings
Brown Sunglasses
Cashmere-Cotton Sleeveless Sweater Dress
Polo Ralph Lauren Cotton Crew Neck
Sammy Watch
Icon Beaded Suede Boots
Wynn Shearling Slide
Join the Conversation

get inspired
#clouzhouz
follow along
@clouz_houz
POV: You want a home you love... but you don’t have the budget to do it all at once.

And then you find our studio!

I’d rather see you create one room you absolutely love than stretch yourself across an entire house and feel like nothing is ever finished. One finished room gives you momentum. It reminds you why you started. And it gives you a clear vision for everything that comes next.

One of the things we help clients with is deciding where to begin. Together, we create a roadmap that allows your home to evolve thoughtfully over time-without feeling pieced together.

You don’t have to do it all this year. You just have to know what comes first.

If you’re wondering where to start, we’d love to help. Feel free to message me and we can set up a 15 min discovery call!
New project in Bend, Oregon.🤍

We just signed on with the sweetest family, and one of the first things they said was, “We don’t really love our house.” A home can be objectively beautiful and still not feel good to live in.

In this house, the kitchen, dining room and living room are all one big great room. It sounds ideal until you realize the dining table is taking up the exact real estate the living room desperately needs.

Instead of making the kitchen bigger, we’re making it smarter. One move solved several problems at once: more storage, a better dining area, and enough square footage to give the living room the footprint it deserved.

Now we’re moving into one of my favorite phases... layering in materials. This is why I love the conceptual phase. Before a single cabinet is ordered, we’re already changing the way this family will live in their home.

If you’ve been looking around your own home thinking, “I know this could work better, I just don’t know how,” we’d love to help. Whether you’re planning a renovation, reworking your layout, or just need an expert eye before making expensive decisions, that’s exactly what we have to offer!

Check out our services through the link in our bio or send this post to a friend who’s struggling with this exact thing.
While renovations are an investment, one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned after years of designing homes is this:
It’s not about how much you spend. It’s about where you spend it.

The homes that feel the most elevated aren’t necessarily the ones with the biggest budgets. They’re the ones where every decision was made with intention.

That’s the philosophy behind everything we do. We help our clients understand where it’s worth investing, where they can save without sacrificing the overall look, and how to create a home that feels layered, timeless, and beautifully functional. Because a thoughtfully planned home will always feel more luxurious than one filled with expensive choices that don’t work together.

Good design isn’t about spending more.
It’s about making every dollar work harder for you-and creating a home you’ll love living in every single day.

If you’re planning a renovation or a furnishing project, we’d love to help. Learn more through the link in our bio.
People often ask why renovations have always been my favorite. The easy answer is that I love watching a transformation. But if I’m honest, I think it’s something much deeper than that.

Years ago, our family walked through a season that forced us to start over. It wasn’t something I would have chosen, but looking back, it changed the way I see everything. Homes. People. Even myself. I stopped looking at what something was and started paying attention to what it could become. Maybe that’s why fixer-uppers have always felt so familiar to me. I know what it’s like to feel like you’re starting over. I know what it’s like to wonder if something beautiful can come from a season that feels uncertain. That’s why I love renovations. They’re hopeful. Every wall that comes down makes room for something new. Every decision is an act of believing that what’s ahead can be better than what was there before.

The funny thing is... I don’t think this is really about houses. I think all of us have something in our lives that feels unfinished, overlooked, or in need of another chance. I’ve learned that the middle of the story rarely looks like the ending. And sometimes the most beautiful things aren’t built from scratch. They’re simply revealed.
For anyone who’s ever had to start over... I’m rooting for you!
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about the little things.
After moving across the country, leaving behind everything we’d known, and living in the middle of a major renovation, I’ve realized that joy isn’t waiting for me on the other side of a finished house.

It’s in the fresh flowers on the counter.
The windows open on a summer morning.
A glass of rosé at the end of the day.
Clipping greenery from the yard.
Lighting a candle just because.

These small rituals have become the way I slow down, stay present, and make this house feel like home-even while it’s still a work in progress.

ICYMI, I wrote all about this in my post “A Home That Feels Like Summer.” It’s a collection of the simple rituals, thoughtful edits, and favorite finds that are helping me embrace this season instead of waiting for the next one.

You can read the full story through the link in our bio.🤍