In the BOH series What I Love, we’re asking designers to build us a mood board of what’s inspiring them right now.
Novelty seekers may revel in trends, but Provo, Utah–based designer Ali Henrie admires the gravitas that accompanies the passage of time. “I prefer the patina of age because it shows that [something] can evolve over years,” she says. “I love materials that have variation and imperfection and will develop more character with age.” It’s no wonder she finds inspiration in the past—specifically, the wood-paneled beauty of the English countryside and coastal traditions of New England. She then channels that old-world sensibility into modern applications. “I appreciate the imperfections of old stone and worn wood, but I’m most inspired by the architecture and setting of each of our projects,” says Henrie. “I don’t want every home to look English. I want the interiors to feel lived-in and authentic to the architecture.”
That versatility is reflected in the designer’s latest mood board, a collection of classic palettes, materials and surfaces that help cultivate the timeless feel her clients favor. “I selected [items] that show craftsmanship, are natural and textural, and will age beautifully over time,” she says.
The scheme sprouts from a dramatic acrylic and charcoal canvas by Oklahoma City artist Abbey Ratcliff, evoking the haunting beauty of English moors and American grasslands. Florals digitally printed on jute come to life in a grasscloth wallcovering by Elizabeth Eakins, while wool, marble, brass and walnut ground the composition in age-old earthiness. Moody grays pair with soothing beiges for a scene that reflects the landscape in all its atmospheric changes. “By layering warm woods, handmade finishes, classic patterns and understated color, a space is created that feels collected, authentic, and as though it’s evolved over time,” says Henrie.
Here, the designer explains what drew her to each of her selections.
1. ARTWORK BY ABBEY RATCLIFF
“The painting helps set the mood and tone for the overall palette, incorporating several of the colors we’re using while adding character and soul to the flat lay. More than simply showing another product, it communicates the overall vision and feeling of the space we’re creating.”
2. MEDITERRANEAN HARDWOOD IN ROCHELLE BY CALIFORNIA CLASSICS
“This engineered hardwood is one of my go-tos because it strikes the perfect balance between warm and cool, making it incredibly versatile. It’s a durable flooring choice that provides a lasting foundation for the entire home.”
3. ALUR FABRIC IN PUTTY BY ELIZABETH EAKINS
“Grasscloth is one of my favorite wallcoverings because it adds rich texture and depth without overwhelming a space. The subtle pattern keeps it interesting while the soft neutral palette ensures it feels timeless.”
4. LIMESTONE SURFACE IN PARIS GREY BY FRANÇOIS & CO.
“Limestone has a softness and authenticity that only natural stone can offer. I love the honed finish and natural variation, which allow it to age beautifully and only become more charming over time.”
5. CARRARA BIANCA HONED MARBLE BY HAUSSMANN NATURAL STONE
“Carrara marble has been used for centuries, making it one of the most enduring natural materials. Its versatility and understated beauty allow it to work effortlessly across a wide range of architectural styles.”
6. CAROB UPHOLSTERY BY SHOPPE AMBER LEWIS
“Every room benefits from a few deeper accents that ground the palette and create contrast. This rich fabric ties other warm elements together for a layered, intentional look.”
7. CLASSIC BRASS CABINET KNOB BY HARDWICK & SONS
“This knob adds an element of warmth, character and authenticity to the flat lay. We love incorporating items that patina over time so the spaces we design continue to build character well after they’re completed.”
8. MARIN CERAMIC WALL TILE IN COASTAL CLIFF BY BEDROSIANS
“Who doesn’t love the charm of handmade craftsmanship at a more approachable price point?! [The tile’s] warm taupe tone creates an inviting foundation that’s perfect for secondary bathrooms and everyday spaces.”
9. WALL TILE AT INSIDE OUT ARCHITECTURALS
“This is inspired by a classic European delft tile and brings subtle dimension and character to a space. The raised detail creates a beautiful statement while remaining understated and timeless.”
10. VERNON BIN PULL IN UNLACQUERED BRASS BY REJUVENATION HARDWARE
“I love anything unlacquered brass because it develops a beautiful patina that adds warmth and character over time. Paired with a classic cup pull silhouette, it's a detail that never feels trendy.”
11. WALNUT WOOD WITH CUSTOM STAIN
“Walnut brings richness and depth that beautifully balances lighter finishes throughout a home. Its natural character and timeless appeal make it one of my favorite woods to incorporate.”
12. BELGIAN LINEN IN RYE PEWTER BY JOHN DERIAN FOR CISCO HOME
“Every home needs a staple linen. This soft, natural fabric creates an effortless foundation that layers beautifully with other textures and works with nearly any color palette.”
13. CELESTA FABRIC IN NAVY BY FABRICUT
“We love introducing patterns through textiles, where it’s easy to add personality without overwhelming a space. This classic navy print offers just the right amount of color while remaining sophisticated and versatile.”
14. ASANA CARPET IN CLOUD BY ANTRIM FOR STANTON
“A great carpet should quietly anchor the room. This high-performance wool blend provides durability for everyday living, and its balanced neutral tone allows the rest of the design to shine.”
15. MIKAYLA TILE IN OLIVE BY EDWARD MARTIN
“When I introduce color in hard finishes, I gravitate toward muted, earthy tones that feel connected to nature. They add personality while maintaining a timeless, livable feel.”
16. RAND WALLPAPER IN SANDSTONE BY SANDBERG WALLPAPER
“I’m a sucker for anything striped, especially a neutral stripe. It never goes out of style!”
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