From unpleasant surprises in a newly purchased home to DIY projects gone wrong, we’ve all heard (or experienced) horror stories about design projects gone awry.

Design trends come and go and what seems popular today may be passé tomorrow. Good news! There are many timeless designs with staying power that can keep our homes fresh and current for years to come. Top designers and MDC showroom managers share their favorites.

Design elements from around the world have long influenced interior design and acted as a source of inspiration. Whether inspired through travel or to honor their own culture, these top designers share how they incorporate global elements into their clients’ homes.

No room design is complete without the finishing touch – the design elements that complete a room and tie everything together. Whether it be an area rug, artwork, colorful accents, or a unique fabric, these top designers share how they created fully finished spaces for their clients.

After a long winter and chilly spring, it’s high time to let the sunny outdoors take center stage – even if it’s from an indoor vantage point.

Whether you’re looking to make a bold statement or create a neutral background, updating a room’s paint color is a simple way to make an immediate impact. Several top designers share their tried-and-true favorite colors they rely on again and again in their design projects.