In the BOH series What I Love, we’re asking designers to build us a mood board of what’s inspiring them right now.
Authenticity reigns supreme for Abigail Kahan. The Montvale, New Jersey designer relies on artisan-made pieces with natural patina to create spaces that feel lush yet lived-in. “This flat lay was inspired by the materials and objects we consistently return to,” she tells Business of Home.
Grounded in muted hues and organic finishes, the scheme showcases an array of tactile designs with naturally unruly linework, including heavily veined Ceppo Beige marble and an undulating silk moire wallcovering. “The layered textures and thoughtful details create richness, while the tonal palette maintains a sense of quiet balance,” she says.
Classic architectural elements, such as dentil moulding and iron windows, infuse the mood board with old-world charm, while eye-catching shapes and graphic motifs plant it firmly in the 21st century. “Craftsmanship is the unifying theme throughout,” says Kahan. “Each item reflects dedication to process, material integrity, and the belief that true design lies in the details.”
Here, the designer breaks it all down, from a brass faucet to an etched wine glass.
1. ZEN FAUCET IN BRASS BY VAN CRONENBURG
“Hardware is truly the jewelry of the home. Choosing pieces that are substantial, beautifully finished, and thoughtfully designed transforms a daily interaction into something tactile and meaningful. This piece feels enduring, less like hardware and more like a sculptural detail integrated into the architecture.”
2. DUKE MOHAIR VELVET IN ROSE ANCIEN BY PIERRE FREY
“Mohair remains one of our most beloved materials. Its warmth and softness instantly create a sense of comfort, making a house feel layered and lived-in. It adds depth without heaviness and brings an inviting tactility to any space.”
3. MURANO HAND-BLOWN CHARTREUSE GREEN GLASS CHANDELIER AT 1STDIBS
“This fixture reimagines the Murano tradition through a modern lens. Murano glass has long symbolized artisanal excellence, and its craftsmanship remains unmatched. It brings heritage and artistry into contemporary form.”
4. PLASTER FRIEZE MOULDING BY DECOCRAFT USA
“Dentil moulding is an architectural language that never fades. It carries history and proportion in such a refined way, proving that classical detailing still has a powerful place in contemporary design. It is an enduring favorite for its quiet elegance.”
5. CEPPO BEIGE MARBLE BY BAS STONE
“Ceppo Beige is having a moment, but its appeal goes beyond trend. The subtle movement in the stone offers warmth and visual interest while still feeling grounded in tradition. It brings freshness to a space without straying too far from timelessness.”
6. PAPIER-MÂCHÉ RELIEFS BY GUSTO
“We are always drawn to ideas that feel unexpected. These papier-mâché panels reinterpret an ancient technique in a bold and contemporary way. They are tactile, artistic and entirely captivating—a true conversation piece.”
7. CRACKLED WHITE EGGSHELL WITH BLACK RESIN SPECIALTY FINISH BY ERIC BRAND
“An eggshell finish is endlessly inspiring. The labor and craftsmanship required to create it are remarkable, and the resulting surface carries a quiet luminosity unlike anything else. It reflects patience, artistry and dedication to detail.”
8. NO 2007 LEVER BY NANZ
“Like plumbing fixtures, hardware sets the tone for the entire home. The weight, feel and durability of a piece in your hand communicate quality instantly. It is a foundational detail that defines the integrity of a space.”
9. LE DÎNER À QUATRE REVERIE DES PINS DINING PLATES BY ASCHER PARIS
“When appropriate, we advocate for a strong pattern. A well-designed motif adds character, energy and sophistication to a table setting. It reinforces the idea that bold pattern work, when executed thoughtfully, never goes out of style.”
10. CUSTOM IRON WINDOW WITH VERDIGRIS FINISH BY WELD WORX
“Iron windows and doors finished with subtle verdigris feel both substantial and poetic. They represent a commitment to craftsmanship and longevity—architectural elements that signal care, permanence and a willingness to go the extra mile.”
11. VINTAGE SALT & PEPPER SHAKERS
“A home should include pieces that make you smile. These vintage salt shakers carry charm and personality, reminding us that design doesn’t have to be serious to be meaningful. Whimsy, when curated thoughtfully, adds warmth.”
12. DOBERMAN MOIRÉ FABRIC IN BEIGE BY SCALAMANDRE
“Moiré is a timeless classic that is experiencing a well-deserved revival. Its subtle wave-like texture catches light beautifully, bringing softness and movement to a space without overpowering it.”
13. ITZINA FABRIC IN ARGENTO & SILVER BY FORTUNY
“Fortuny represents legacy craftsmanship at its finest. Rooted in Venetian history, the brand’s textiles honor tradition while remaining relevant and refined. It is a testament to enduring artistry and meticulous technique.”
14. AURELIA KEY TASSEL IN CHOCOLATE BY SAMUEL & SONS
“Tassels are enjoying a resurgence, and we welcome it wholeheartedly. They add ornamentation and personality while nodding to classical design traditions. It’s a reminder that detail and embellishment still have a place in contemporary interiors.”
15. ROMA WINE GLASS BY JULIA B. CASA
“Etched glass strikes the perfect balance between subtlety and charm. The delicate detailing adds whimsy while maintaining elegance—everything a beautiful drinking glass should embody.”
