Between the Layers | Design Guide Series
SUBSCRIBE
Design

The August Edit: Linger Longer

Embracing the Present

The summer months are such precious days, aren’t they? We have limited time to spend the days lounging outside on patio furniture, BBQing with friends and family, and experiencing nature blooming along with our spirits. This season can feel so chaotic at times, always trying to jam the most trips in, that we often get carried away. I have to constantly remind myself to stay in the moment and embrace the time that I am currently in. And honestly, a staycation can be just as relaxing if you’re intentional with how you spend your time in the comfort of your own home.

Furniture That Encourages Relaxation

And with that comes home furniture and lifestyle items that support that goal and make it enjoyable to linger in a memory longer. August is all for those special pieces that evoke emotions, start conversations, and inspire. We’re taking it back to the basics, with neutral and soft color palettes of a calm summer day, and with pops of exciting colors and patterns sprinkled throughout.

Pieces Inspiring My Designs

In August, it’s all about those light and airy styles that feel organic to summertime, while bringing a breath of life and fresh twists into the equation at the same time. And, what better way to understand the vision than to include Kelly Wearstler’s book, “Kelly Wearstler: Evocative Style.” Everyone should pick up this book, the designs inside are just so uniquely stunning! Perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon perusing her pages chocked full of inspiration.

Source: Geremia
Geremia Design 2022 photographed by Laure Joliet

Color of the Month

Benjamin Moore’s ‘Coral Spice’ has a nice punch of color while also being mellowed with a hint of brown tones. I chose a pinky coral for August because there are so many different hues you can pick from, but it feels refreshing for summer.

I also came across this black & white tile and knew I needed to include it in this month’s roundup. This is from a local company, Kibak Tile in Sisters, Oregon, and I just love the colors and patterns of their designs. The contrasting colors feel like such a nice and refreshing contrast to the rest of this edit’s color palette. And, the floral motifs give it a variety of characters. I’d love to use this in a bathroom, beach home, or as a backsplash.


What I’m Wearing: Slow Living Essentials

I want to emphasize the importance of slow living being our lifestyle, and handpicked a few things that give that vibe while still making me feel fresh+seasonal yet relaxed.

  • Raffia Clutch with Ruffles: A subtle accent for any outfit, this clutch is the material of the season.
  • Essential Tote: MASSIVE and perfect for carrying work materials or stocking up at the farmer’s market. The durable canvas is easy to clean. Kaylei was so sweet and surprised us with Clouz Houz totes for travel and site visits. We load them up with samples, plans, etc. You can customize them with your initials, logo or name. So so cute!
  • Seersucker Linen Pants: These pinstriped linen pants elevate any basic outfit. Pair them with a white tee or a graphic one for an effortless, breathable, and flowy look.


What I’m Using to Style My Home

This month is all about the little accessories that make a house a home.

  • Fun and Retro Print Pillows: Perfect for jazzing up a couch or adding a fun accent to a chair or bed. Summer is the time to pick playful designs!

  • Porcelain Lighting: Inspired by our primary bedroom in Tumalo, this statement fixture adds a stylish touch.


Lifestyle Favorites

  • Oyster Plate: A Clouz Houz staple for the season. We love our oysters, and this plate is both functional and beyond aesthetic.

Linger Longer

August is about those special pieces that evoke emotions, start conversations, and inspire. It’s about understanding the intent behind each item and relating to where some of us might be at this point in the summer. Relish the good times, embrace the soon to be end to the season and linger longer outside, in the comfort of your home with loved ones. Life is short. Make it Beautiful…. however it brings you joy. 

Cheers to a season of joy, inspiration, and unforgettable moments! ?

***

I case you missed last month’s posts…

Pro’s and Con’s of Quartzite Counters

Grilled Peach Smash Cocktail Recipe

Our Fave Sofa and Coffee Table Combos

Shop the High Desert Tumalo Ranch Living Room

Join the Conversation

get inspired
#clouzhouz
follow along
@clouz_houz
Part 1 of our Sixth Street den is finally here.

This room is a little different than the rest of our home, and honestly... that’s what I love about it. One of my design philosophies has always been knowing where to save and where to splurge. Not every room needs the same investment, especially when you understand how it’s going to be used.

This is our family den. It’s where we unwind at the end of the day, watch a movie, read a book, or curl up with the dogs. When we’re entertaining, everyone naturally gathers in the kitchen, dining room, or living room, so I gave myself permission to be a little more creative here.
That meant mixing old with new, incorporating a few vintage finds, and investing in the pieces that would have the biggest impact. It was less about buying everything new and more about creating the feeling I wanted. The room isn’t finished yet (are they ever?), but it’s already become one of our favorite places to land at the end of the day.

I can’t wait to show you Part 2 and walk through some of the other decisions that brought this room together. It’s full of personality, and I think those details are what make it feel like us.

Part 2 coming soon!
Well, this was fun!!

For those of you who are new around here and want to get to know a little more about Clouz Houz (and me), consider this the rapid-fire version.

I’m Allison-the principal designer/owner behind Clouz Houz. These answers are a pretty honest glimpse into how I approach design, what I believe makes a home feel good, and the little things I think matter most.

At the end of the day, every project is different, but my philosophy is always the same: create homes that are meant to be lived in, not just looked at.

Now I’d love to hear from you. Which answer resonated most? Or better yet... what’s a design opinion you’ll defend forever? Leave it in the comments!