Hilary Farr’s design style is luxurious yet understated, providing inspiration for classic design. While she occasionally experiments with trends, her main focus is on creating a timeless space. Drawing from her experience as the host of HGTV’s “Love It or List It” and “Tough Love with Hilary Farr,” she expertly blends a client’s unique taste with an elegant aesthetic.
Farr is not afraid to incorporate bold decor choices if they align with the homeowner’s style. There have been instances where she has diverged from popular trends to make more unique design decisions. If you desire a stylish space that stands out while still being updated, consider Farr’s alternative design solutions. From furniture to paint colors, explore Hilary Farr’s most original ideas that challenge conventional expectations.
Earthy greens are classic, but Farr chose lime instead
In the realm of kitchen color schemes, earthy greens are a timeless choice. While many designers opt for safer organic variations like olive tones, in Season 2, Episode 9 of “Tough Love,” Hilary Farr went with a bold neon lime hue for a backsplash to match her clients’ eclectic taste. This unexpected pop of color added personality to the home, deviating from the usual earthy green look. The homeowners and viewers alike loved the unique choice. Neon colors may not be for everyone, but if you’re looking for a vibrant focal point, consider a bright green tile or tempered glass in a bold shade to add a touch of uniqueness to your kitchen.
For those hesitant about neon colors, there are subtler ways to incorporate unexpected shades like lime green or yellow through handmade tiles or tempered glass for a seamless and easy-to-clean option that reflects light and creates the illusion of a larger space in your kitchen.
Wood cabinets are popular, but Farr opted for paint
Farr isn’t a fan of the current trend of natural wood kitchen cabinets, as she believes they can detract attention unless there are other matching wood features in the space. In Season 2, Episode 5 of “Tough Love,” she chose a stunning sky blue paint for the cabinets, showcasing the impact of a painted finish. When selecting kitchen cabinet paint colors, consider your desired aesthetic rather than following trends. For a classic look, try upper glass front cabinets paired with pastel surrounding cabinets. If you prefer a timeless space, opt for popular choices like White Dove by Benjamin Moore. For a bolder contemporary look, consider navy blue cabinets for a touch of sophistication.
Neutral sofas are stylish, but Farr embraces bold patterns
While warm earth tones and natural textures dominate current sofa trends, Farr has incorporated bold, patterned sofas in her designs. In Season 2, Episode 2 of “Tough Love,” she used thematic prints to create a statement in the living space, catering to her clients’ unique tastes. Embrace bold patterns and prints in your furniture to add visual interest and personality to your interior. Consider experimenting with classic floral patterns for a romantic look, tropical botanical prints for a coastal theme, or geometric prints for a modern touch. Upholstering vintage sofas or using temporary fabric covers can allow you to explore different styles without a permanent commitment.
Light closets are common, but Farr chose a dark look
While pale closet interiors are popular, Farr opted for a stylish dark navy blue in Season 1, Episode 5 of “Tough Love.” Darker colors can create depth and visual character in a walk-in closet, making it appear larger and cozier. Dark shades like chocolate brown or charcoal gray can also hide dust and create a sophisticated feel in your wardrobe. Match your closet color to the mood of your interior decor for a cohesive look, or opt for a rich taupe as a timeless alternative to white.
Instead of cozy seating and greenery, Farr built a skate park
While cozy outdoor spaces are trending, Farr’s design philosophy emphasizes personalization. In Season 11, Episode 8 of “Love It or List It,” she surprised one homeowner with a backyard skatepark, showcasing the importance of reflecting personal interests in your outdoor space. Consider designing a recreational area like a mini-golf course or a bocce ball court to add a playful touch to your backyard. Incorporating activity-based corners can enhance your outdoor entertaining experience and impress your guests.
Colorful kitchens are popular, but Farr preferred white
While bold kitchen colors are on-trend, Farr advises caution to avoid overwhelming your space. In Season 2, Episode 4 of “Tough Love,” she opted for white cabinets and countertops with a subtle touch of blue under the kitchen island for depth. White kitchens are timeless and versatile, allowing you to add color through accessories or temporary pieces. Consider off-white or ivory as classic alternatives to bold colors, and use accents like stools or decorative items to introduce color without committing to a full color scheme.
Tiled hoods are popular, but Farr chose wood
While tiled oven hoods are trending, Farr selected a unique wood-slatted hood in Season 2, Episode 10 of “Tough Love” to complement the mid-century interior. The wooden hood adds an organic touch and can be customized to suit various home styles. For a contemporary look, opt for a lighter wood stain like white oak, or embrace the nostalgia of a wood slat style for a retro feel. DIYing a wooden oven range hood involves building a sturdy frame, attaching wooden slats, and finishing with a polished stain for a timeless and stylish addition to your kitchen.
