65 Designers Share the Decorating Secrets Only Professionals Know...Until Now

“We typically cut readily available materials that are in standard sizes into smaller sizes of those same tiles,” Jessica Geller of Toldeo Geller reveals. The design duo used this budget-friendly method to create the custom tile design in this bathroom.

Have ugly appliances or simply want to change things up? Use peel-and-stick wallpaper, as designer Janie Molster did to the fridge and freezer in this kitchen.

You can mix colors and patterns that'll push the envelope but still remain stylish and authentic. Just take it from designer Anthony Gianacakos, who did so in his own bedroom. "My strong suit is color and pattern combination," he says.

In a basement room with no windows, Camila Pavone of Effortless Style Interiors came up with the idea to combine two mirrors to fake a window. It brightens up the space and makes it feel bigger.

"We love how this finish surface interacts with light; It is soft, subtle, and welcoming," says Suzanne Stefan of the stainless steel matte finish in her kitchen, which she created using Scotch-Brite. Learn more about the process here.

“I wanted to fashion a space where you could have a friend over for coffee or tea…and actually use your collected china," says Marie Flanigan of this tea room she designed. It's proof that any collection can be a jumping-off point for a room.

A radiator can easily throw off your design vision. Make it a part of the room by building a cabinet over it, as Leanne Ford Interiors did here to reclaim the hallway space and turn it into a beautiful little reading nook.

Don't underestimate the importance of a personal sanctuary. "I wanted it to feel like being wrapped in a warm blanket," says Melissa Rufty of this Southern library.

"If someone draws on it, it’s a lot easier to repair than real lacquer!" — Corey Damen Jenkins

“Purchase a few matted frames, and pop in your own sketches of abstract art. The picture mats will look expensive, and you'll have your own personal touch on the walls for guests to admire.” — Eneia White

"Small, outdoor ceramic stools are great pieces of furniture that perform double duty. They can be used as extra seating or when placed close to a chair or sofa, they can serve as an additional surface to place your laptop during work hours or cocktails and small plates of food during an outdoor hangout." — David Quarles IV

"In this basement remodel, we would've had to spend a ton of money rerouting the HCVA air duct. Who wouldn't go with ballet-slipper pink instead?" — Max Humphrey

"There was no ceiling molding and no molding around the doors in this apartment, so I added them with paint! —Aldous Bertram

"We were able to work in a lot of pieces from their previous home, which made it feel layered." — Jean Liu

"Do something groovy on the actual steps! The bolder you go, the bigger the smile when you see them." — Fawn Galli. Here, a painted runner by Annie Sloan looks just like carpet.

"Murals are a way of bringing more people into the house, so even when it’s just the two owners, it never feels lonely." — Raji Radhakrishnan

"Old and new belong together. A mix of modern pieces and antiques never tires." — Caleb Anderson

Improve health and temporarily turn a room a different color with "top-of-the-line smart circadian rhythm lighting." — Breegan Jane

“I love to use wallpaper in mundane spaces. Hallways, pantries, powder rooms—all become moments of joy and funkiness. Areas of transition can be places you enjoy spending time in.” — Fawn Galli

"If punk rock has taught me anything, it's to do everything yourself. All of my favorite interior designers were self-taught."— Max Humphrey