In the BOH series What I Love, we’re asking designers to build us a mood board of what’s inspiring them right now.
Janine Carendi MacMurray is all about the hunt. Whether it’s an antique object or artisan-made furnishings, the New York–based founder of Area Interior Design is committed to the process of finding the perfect piece. “I am always drawn to the idea of mixing items that have been loved before with those that are still being made by smaller makers who are preserving the art of textile and craft,” she tells Business of Home.
Her current flat lay is imbued with that ethos. Filled with handwoven fabrics and vintage goods, the scheme is grounded in organic materials with naturally touchable finishes. “It feels layered and tactile, but also considered,” she explains. “I wanted the composition to reflect that balance, something that feels collected over time, with depth, warmth and intention.”
A range of rich earth tones, including red and dark brown, ultimately draws the mood board together, while sinuous shapes and graphic motifs invigorate the arrangement. “There is a sense of restraint, with moments that are a bit more expressive, which keeps it from feeling static,” says MacMurray. “Each piece stands on its own, but together they create something far more meaningful.”
Here, the designer breaks down the details, from a brass cabinet knob to terra cotta–colored velvet.
1. VINTAGE TIFFANY & CO. HEART RIM BOWL BY SHOPBABETTE AT ETSY
“I am always on the hunt for vintage pieces, and this crystal bowl is no exception. There is something meaningful about giving these pieces a second life and layering them with newer elements.”
2. CUSTOM RUG BY STARK CARPET
“This deeply plush, multilevel hand-knotted rug by Stark Carpet adds depth and dimension. Pieces like this reflect a level of craftsmanship that is increasingly rare, grounding the room while providing a rich and tactile backdrop.”
3. NICO FABRIC IN 884 BY ZIMMER + ROHDE
“This is a beautiful but quiet pattern. It acts as a grounding fabric that supports bolder textiles layered around it.”
4. VINTAGE ITALIAN BRASS WALL MIRROR AT 1STDIBS
“I have a slight obsession with Italian mirrors, and this vintage brass piece is a perfect example. It adds personality and presence, and is sculptural enough to stand on its own as an object.”
5. LODGE FABRIC IN MENTHOL BY MÉTAPHORES
“I am drawn to the depth and movement in this fabric. It reflects a commitment to craft and contributes to the overall layering without feeling overly coordinated.”
6. AUGUSTA FABRIC IN TERRACOTTA BY DEDAR
“This is a go-to velvet that I use often. It feels incredibly luxurious yet is bleachable, making it both beautiful and highly practical for upholstery.”
7. METAL KNOB IN FRENCH COUNTRY BRASS BY WALTER FILTER
“I love incorporating brass elements wherever possible. This unlacquered piece will age over time, which is something I always value—materials that evolve and tell a story.”
8. CUSTOM ORCHARD WALLCOVERING ON MERCURY GREY WILLIAMSBURG GROUND BY DE GOURNAY
“This hand-painted version of a hand-embroidered wallcovering will absolutely be the centerpiece of the room. The scale is truly spectacular.”
9. INTUITION WALLCOVERING IN INT312 BY OMEXCO
“This is a richly textured woven wallcovering that brings depth into the space. I envision it lining the back of bookcases to contrast with larger-scale patterns on surrounding walls.”
10. TIGER BEAT FABRIC IN TABACCO BY DEDAR
“This is one of my favorite patterns. I use it to bring energy into a room. It feels timeless and elegant while still having an unexpected edge.”
11. JIMI LEATHER IN DRAGON BY ZINC TEXTILE
“I have been increasingly drawn to using leather trim on pillows. This particular leather subtly pulls out the tones in the limewash and adds a refined, tailored edge.”
12. LIME WASH NATURAL MATTE PAINT IN BRICKYARD BY MEODED PAINT & PLASTER
“I prefer limewash over traditional paint for its depth and softness. This tone brings a rich, earthy warmth that ties back to other materials in the room.”
13. VINTAGE CONSOLE TABLE BY MÓVEIS TEPERMAN AT 1STDIBS
“I am drawn to the sculptural quality of this console, particularly the movement in the legs. It helps tie together the more organic and architectural elements within the space.”
14. LES ECAILLES FABRIC IN CUSTOM COLORWAY BY PIERRE FREY
“I love how this fabric introduces movement through its subtle, rhythmic pattern. It is a truly handmade piece and well worth the wait, reflecting the kind of craftsmanship that supports smaller makers and keeps these traditions alive.”
15. PAAVO TYNELL CHANDELIER AT KABINET HUBERT
“Paavo Tynell is one of my favorite lighting designers, and I find his work to have a quiet playfulness. This piece is understated yet incredibly beautiful, bringing a soft glow and a sense of lightness to the space.”
