In the BOH series What I Love, we’re asking designers to build us a mood board of what’s inspiring them right now.
Robin Rains has a knack for finding pieces that strike the balance between timeless and contemporary. The Nashville-based designer—who also runs an antiques showroom—appreciates heirloom-quality designs. “We are drawn to earthy hues, rich textures and materials with a little age and character,” she tells Business of Home.
Inspired by items that “feel warm, layered and collected over time,” Rains integrated everything from an 18th century cabinet with velvet-lined shelves to a sculptural ceramic lamp and an ultramodern swivel chair into her flat lay. “I wanted to create a mood that feels relaxed, timeless and lived-in,” she explains.
The designer grounded the scheme in mineral tones and natural finishes, sprinkling in an assortment of playful shapes and zippy prints to liven it up. “What ties everything together is that every piece feels thoughtful and soulful without being overly formal or precious,” she says.
Here, Rains breaks down the details, from a nubby wool rug to a brass toggle.
1. ROMAN CLAY PAINT IN FOREST FLOOR BY PORTOLA PAINTS
“We love this color for its moody, earthy depth that adds richness without overwhelming a space. Its subtle shifts in different light create a layered, lived-in feel that brings warmth and character to a room.”
2. 18TH CENTURY BELGIAN BLEACHED CABINET AT ROBIN RAINS ANTIQUES
“We’re drawn to the contrast between the worn wood and soft velvet interior. It feels distinctive yet effortless, with a timeless quality that makes it seem as though it has always belonged in the space.”
3. PAINTED IRON LANTERN WITH SQUARE YOKE AT ROBIN RAINS ANTIQUES
“The aged rust patina gives this antique lantern a rich old-world character that feels full of history. We love that it works just as beautifully indoors as it does outdoors.”
4. CELESTA FABRIC IN HENNA BY FABRICUT
“The colorway is rich and earthy, and it layers beautifully with a variety of fabrics and textures. Its depth adds warmth and dimension while remaining versatile within a space.”
5. SPLENDID MOHAIR FABRIC IN 813 BY ZIMMER + ROHDE
“We love mohair, and this piece feels especially soft and luxurious. The color has just enough depth to add dimension while still feeling understated within a space.”
6. SPOOL SCONCE IN TARNISHED BRASS BY THE URBAN ELECTRIC CO.
“This high-style sconce stands out for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Its classic design feels timeless, bringing an elevated touch to any space.”
7. BIG SKY PEBBLE NO. 78 ENGINEERED WHITE OAK HARDWOOD FLOORING BY JEFFREY DUNGAN ARCHITECTS FOR TEXTURES NASHVILLE
“This is the kind of floor that works effortlessly in any space. Its natural tone keeps a room feeling grounded and calm, while the subtle variation adds depth and character.”
8. AWAKENING ART BY JACK KRAMER AT ROBIN RAINS ANTIQUES
“There’s something about this piece that immediately draws you in. Its slightly imperfect, soulful quality makes a space feel thoughtfully collected rather than simply decorated.”
9. BIANCO VIOLETTA SOFT TUMBLED MARBLE BY ELON TILE & STONE
“This tile brings a sense of rhythm and movement to a space, creating a layered look that feels dynamic yet balanced.”
10. 1G TOGGLE SWITCH WITHOUT LOGO IN BRASS BY BUSTER & PUNCH
“Simple in design yet full of character, this brass toggle makes a subtle statement in any home. Its understated style gives it a timeless appeal that works across a range of interiors.”
11. CUSTOM CHUSI SOGA RUG IN CRUDO BY AWANAY
“Handwoven in Argentina by local artisans, this premium llama wool rug brings rich texture and warmth to a space. Its timeless feel makes it a beautiful foundation for any room.”
12. SOHO SWIVEL CHAIR BY UNA MALAN
“This chair feels sculptural in form while still being incredibly comfortable and inviting. We love the balance of striking design and everyday coziness.”
13. SOLOMA TABLE LAMP IN CERAMIC ARTISAN WHITE BY LOFT & THOUGHT FOR TROY LIGHTING AT HUDSON VALLEY LIGHTING GROUP
“Its simplicity and organic shape bring a sense of character and texture to any space. The understated form feels both sculptural and approachable, adding warmth without overpowering a room.”
14. ORTO WALLPAPER IN 02 BY ZAK+FOX
“This is a beautiful way to introduce pattern without overwhelming a space. The design feels subtly graphic while still soft and timeless enough for everyday living.”
