Where Storytelling Meets Design

As another holiday season comes to a close, I find myself doing what I always do in early January: taking a deep breath, stepping back, and reflecting on the pace we’ve all just lived through.

The weeks leading up to Christmas are filled with so much beauty and tradition, but if I’m being honest, they are also incredibly hectic. Like many families, we decorated, hosted, cooked, and baked. We visited Longwood Gardens, went into the city, watched movies, and did all the things that make this season feel so magical. Those moments are special and meaningful, and I treasure them. But the truth is, they are exhausting, too. As glad as I am for the magic of Christmas to come around, I am usually ready for it to be over when it is all said and done.

There is something deeply comforting about the quiet that comes after the holiday rush. The slower mornings, the clearing of the calendar, and the return to simple routines can feel like a reset button. This year, that reset was especially restorative. After a much-needed break, we are back at Liz Walton Home, ready to step into 2026 with energy, focus, and excitement. We have fresh projects on the horizon, a strong team in place, and a clear vision for the year ahead.

A Year of Momentum at Home and in Business

While Liz Walton Home is ramping up for a beautiful and busy season, our family is doing the same. This new year, we are preparing for a busier than usual youth sports schedule, and I can already tell it is going to be a full one. Scarlett is playing both volleyball and softball, and Michael is deep into baseball season, along with his strength and pitching training program through Tread Athletics.

As any parent knows, youth sports can become a whole rhythm of its own. There are practices, games, travel weekends, and the constant shuffle of schedules that fills your days before you even realize it. I love watching our kids develop their skills and build confidence, and I also know that seasons like this require a lot of coordination, patience, and energy. It is the kind of busy that can be both demanding and rewarding all at once.

In many ways, this mirrors what we experience in business. The most meaningful work often requires extra effort, thoughtful planning, and a willingness to show up consistently. That concept, consistency and care, brings me to a theme that has stayed with me since our family break.

The Unexpected Lesson I Took Away from Vacation

During our time away, my family and I visited the enchanting Nemacolin resort. It was beautiful, restorative, and just what we needed. But the most striking part of our experience was not only the setting, it was the service.

One theme kept creeping into my thoughts and our conversation: remarkable service.

So often, I hear that good service no longer exists. I hear people say that no one takes pride in their work anymore, or that care and attention to detail are rare. But I disagree. Good service, and even excellent service, is alive and well.

Yes, it may come with a higher price tag, but the difference between great service and poor service does not come down to money. It comes from within. It comes from a mindset. It starts with a smile, a kind gesture, a thoughtful note, or someone noticing the small details before you ever have to ask.

It is easy to underestimate how powerful those moments are until you experience them firsthand. Great service leaves you feeling cared for. It creates a sense of ease and trust. And perhaps most importantly, it changes how you feel in a space. It shapes the experience in a way that lingers long after you leave.

Why Service Matters to Liz Walton Home

At Liz Walton Home, we have always believed that the design process should feel just as beautiful and intentional as the end result. The home we create for a client should feel timeless, inviting, and deeply personal, but the experience of getting there should feel seamless, warm, and well supported.

This year, our team is paying special attention to the idea of service, and how we can constantly aim to exceed expectations for our clients, our vendors, and our community.

Because design is not only about aesthetics. It is about trust. Partnership. Communication. Follow-through. Thoughtfulness. The quiet confidence that someone is taking care of every detail, even the ones you might not see.

We want our clients to feel listened to, understood, and cared for. We want our vendors and trade partners to feel respected and valued. We want every interaction with Liz Walton Home, from the first inquiry to the final installation day, to be rooted in professionalism, clarity, and warmth.

Service is not something you can fake. It is a culture. It is a choice you make again and again in how you communicate, how you anticipate needs, and how you show up.

This year, that will be a guiding theme for us.

Paris, Deco Off, and a Window Into What’s Next

And speaking of returning with energy, next week I am traveling to Paris for Deco Off 2026, where design houses from around the world come together to launch their new collections.

For those unfamiliar, Deco Off is a uniquely inspiring event that brings together some of the most respected design brands and ateliers. It is where new ideas are introduced, where we see the direction of textiles, color, and pattern, and where the design world feels vibrant and alive.

We will be in the center of it all, with exclusive invite-only showroom tours and atelier appointments. It will be exhausting and exhilarating, and I cannot wait. Paris always has a way of reminding me why design matters. It is a city that celebrates craft, artistry, and history in the most effortless way. I am excited to bring that inspiration home and translate it into the projects we are working on for the year ahead.

Looking Ahead

If there is one thing I have learned through both business and life, it is that seasons come and go quickly. The best thing we can do is meet them with intention. With care. With steadiness.

So as we step into 2026, I hope you are finding your own rhythm again, too. I hope you are feeling restored after the rush of the holidays, and ready to settle into routines that support you and your home.

We are grateful to be back, grateful for the opportunity to do what we love, and excited to step into this new year with renewed focus.

Until next time, au revoir.

As the year draws to a close, I always find myself settling into a rhythm that feels both familiar and deeply comforting. The holidays have a way of reminding us where we’ve been, what we value, and how quickly time moves, especially in a year like 2025, when uncertainty and unexpected shifts seemed to be the norm. Yet through every challenge, one thing stayed constant: the grounding power of relationships, rituals, and home.

In our family, the holidays officially start the moment we bundle up and head to Yeager’s Farm to cut down our Christmas tree. No matter how busy life feels or how cold the air is, that tradition signals that it’s time to slow down and be present.

Shortly after comes our visit to Longwood Gardens’ Festival of Lights, a tradition we’ve kept in every kind of weather imaginable. Rain, snow, unseasonably warm evenings… it never matters. Longwood always finds a way to feel magical.

At home, the kitchen becomes command central. We bake cookies and cakes, the kids bring home holiday crafts and school activity schedules, and our evenings fill with our favorite Christmas movies playing in the background. And then there’s the cooking-lots of cooking. We host Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, a whirlwind of recipes, laughter, and loved ones gathered around the table. It’s chaotic in the best possible way.

But once the elf dust settles and Santa has officially made his rounds, we pack up and slip into a week of rest and recovery. This year, we’re especially excited to spend it at Nemacolin Woodlands, embracing quiet moments, winter scenery, and family downtime before the new year begins.

Looking Toward 2026: A New Era of Color, Comfort & Story

Just as the holidays are filled with traditions we cherish, the turn of a new year always brings a fresh wave of inspiration, especially for the homes we create. If a renovation or room refresh happens to be on your Christmas list, here’s a little design forecasting to spark your imagination.

In 2026, color is officially back! After years of neutrals dominating interiors, we’re seeing a return to rich, vibrant tones that bring warmth and personality into a space.

Think:

• Deep burgundy
• Saturated plum
• Mossy, layered greens

These hues pair beautifully with tactile materials. Think real velvets, luxe upholstery and trim, textured wovens, and heirloom pieces that tell a story. Interiors next year will lean into spaces that feel lived-in, layered, and deeply personal. Comfort isn’t just physical; it’s emotional.

Layered lighting will play a major role in shaping mood and depth, pendants, sconces, table lamps, and accent lights working together to create a balanced, inviting glow.

And wellness continues to be more than a trend. We’re seeing an increased desire for experiential interiors, spaces that support mindfulness, fitness, indoor gardening, and restorative moments throughout the home. These environments help us reconnect with ourselves, especially when life feels fast or unpredictable.

After a year like 2025, one filled with market shifts, tariffs, uncertainty, and unexpected twists, we’ve learned to be flexible, creative, and intentional. More importantly, we’ve been reminded that relationships, old and new, are the heart of everything we do.

As we head into 2026, I’m excited for the stories we’ll continue to tell, the homes we’ll create, and the families, like yours, that we’ll have the privilege of designing for.

Wishing you a season filled with warmth, joy, and the comforts of home.

It’s hard to believe the holidays are already upon us, it feels like summer was just last month! As the air turns crisp and our schedules fill with gatherings, I’m reminded of how much joy this season brings, not just through celebrations, but in the quiet moments of reflection and gratitude.

For us, the holidays always begin at home. This year feels extra special as we prepare to host Thanksgiving in our new kitchen, a space that truly reflects the heart of our family. From cooking side by side, having our kids help with cooking and cleanup, to lingering over dessert, these moments remind me why we do what we do, creating homes that hold memories, stories, and love.

When it comes to decorating for Christmas, I’ve always believed that beauty and meaning can, and should, coexist. I love weaving our children’s handmade crafts and artwork from years past into our holiday décor. Those imperfect, joy-filled pieces tell our family’s story and add a layer of warmth that no store-bought ornament ever could.

Mixed among the treasured keepsakes, I embrace simple, timeless elements, lush greenery, soft twinkling lights, and touches of natural texture. The result feels both elevated and deeply personal: a balance of elegance and nostalgia that captures the essence of the season.

This fall also marked a major milestone for our team as we all attended High Point Market together for the very first time! Even though the weather was less than cooperative (think very frightful), the trip was nothing short of incredible.

Beyond the beautiful showrooms and endless design inspiration, what made this experience truly special was the sense of connection. It was a time of team bonding and open, honest conversations, with each other and with our trusted vendors. We talked candidly about the realities of the industry: tariffs, lead times, performance fabrics, and most importantly, client experience, the cornerstone of everything we do at Liz Walton Home.

We returned home not just inspired by new patterns, menswear details, and materials, but renewed in our commitment to serving our clients with integrity, creativity, and care.

As we wrap up this unforgettable year, we’re filled with gratitude for those who have supported us along the way—our clients, vendors, friends, and all who have shared the greatest gift: a referral.

We can’t wait to host our 2nd Annual Referral Appreciation Event, an invitation-only evening dedicated to celebrating the Liz Walton Home community. This year’s event will be held at      Di Bruno Brothers in Wayne, where guests will enjoy a fabulous night of wine, cheese, and, of course, shopping! It’s our small way of saying thank you to those who make our work possible and meaningful.

As we enter this season of gratitude, my hope is that your homes are filled with warmth, beauty, and connection, and that you find time to celebrate the people and moments that make life truly special.✨ From all of us at Liz Walton Home, we wish you a joyful and inspired holiday season.

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, October brings with it a special energy. Here in Philadelphia, that energy is electric, whether it is gathering around the TV to cheer on the Eagles, decking out the family room for Phillies’ Red October, or opening your home to friends and neighbors for cozy autumn get-togethers. At Liz Walton Home, we believe the best home interiors are not just beautiful. They are designed to be lived in, to make entertaining effortless, and to create lasting memories.

There is nothing quite like hosting friends and family for an Eagles game on a Sunday afternoon. The right seating arrangement, thoughtful flow, and layered lighting make all the difference between a space that feels crowded and one that feels welcoming. Add in durable fabrics, surfaces that stand up to game-day snacks, and accessories in your team’s colors, and suddenly your home becomes the ultimate spot for celebrating every touchdown.

When it comes to October baseball, my family and I are true Phanatics. Some of our favorite memories are from attending Phillies playoff games together, celebrating every hit with strangers in our section with enthusiastic high fives, and holding our breath with every pitch. Now, as my kids get older, we talk stats, hitting rotations, and pitching match-ups, and I love every conversation. Red October has become a beloved Philadelphia tradition, and it reminds me of how thoughtful home interior designs can help create that same sense of excitement and togetherness at home. Whether it is a media room with stadium-style seating or an outdoor area warmed by a firepit, flexible spaces turn your home into the perfect backdrop for unforgettable Phillies moments.

While we are cheering on Philly sports, our team at Liz Walton Home is also heading to High Point Market in North Carolina this October, the largest furnishings trade show in the world. It is where designers discover new collections, explore trends, and connect with makers who inspire us. What we find there directly influences the storied interiors we create for our clients. From innovative fabrics and finishes to bespoke furniture pieces, the market is an incredible resource that allows us to bring the very best home to you.

Whether it is a big game, a holiday dinner (yes, the holidays are coming!), or an impromptu fall gathering, great design makes entertaining seamless. Spaces that anticipate your lifestyle, from ample seating to well-placed surfaces and thoughtful lighting, give you the freedom to focus on the people around you rather than the logistics of hosting. That is the true art of entertaining at home.

As we celebrate the moments October brings, both here in Philadelphia and at High Point, we are reminded of the power of connection. The homes we design at Liz Walton Home, one of the leading interior design firms, are always about more than finishes or furnishings. They are about the relationships they hold and the memories they help create. Next month, we will be diving deeper into the importance of relationships at home, in our community, and in the work we are privileged to do every day.

Seventeen years ago, in 2008, Liz Walton Home began in the most humble of spaces—my basement. A few years later we welcomed our son, Michael, and our daughter, Scarlett, who played by my side as I attempted to build a business. A story many of you can relate to. What started as a dream fueled by a love for design and a determination to build something of my own has since grown into a boutique interior design firm rooted in referrals, long-term partnerships, and the belief that every home should tell the story of the people who live there.

The journey has been anything but straightforward. In the early days, I was the “new kid on the block” in a competitive industry, grappling with imposter syndrome while working to prove myself one project at a time. Over the years, I’ve faced the challenges of entrepreneurship—navigating shifting trends, running a business during a pandemic, and balancing the demands of raising two confident kids—all while striving to be fully present as a designer, a mother, and a leader.

None of this would have been possible without my community. I’ve had the honor of working alongside incredibly talented local vendors, tradespeople, and artisans whose skill and dedication elevate every project. I’ve met fascinating clients who have invited me into their homes and trusted me to bring their stories to life. And behind the scenes, I’ve had the unwavering support of family and friends, especially my husband, Mike, who has cheered me on through every late night and big leap.

Today, Liz Walton Home is no longer a solo endeavor. I am proud to lead a superstar team of capable, driven young women who bring fresh ideas, sharp instincts, and incredible talent to our work. Together, we’ve built a studio that’s as much about relationships and accountability as it is about design. Along the way, I’ve learned the fine art of listening deeply, holding myself accountable, and showing up with presence—for my clients, my team, and my family.

As we step into this next chapter, I’m thrilled to introduce our new website—a reflection of where we’ve been, who we are today, and where we’re headed. It’s not just a showcase of our work; it’s a space to celebrate our clients, our community, and the shared creativity that fuels everything we do.

Looking ahead, my hope is that Liz Walton Home continues to grow not only as a design studio but as a source of inspiration—a place where we can create beauty, foster connection, and build a community together.

Chocolate or Vanilla? Coffee or Tea? Apple or Orange? These are decisions that plague us on a daily basis. When it comes to cabinetry, one of the questions I am asked most is, Inset or Full Overlay? Actually, it’s more like, “What is the difference between the cabinets in the following two photos?”

Inset vs overlay cabinetry

Inset cabinets sit flush inside a visible frame.

Full overlay cabinets do not have an exposed frame; rather, door and/or drawer faces sit directly next to one another, in front of a concealed frame.

Hopefully, this blog post will answer some of these burning questions that have been on your mind and will set you on a clear path to selecting the right cabinetry for your kitchen or bathroom project.

When choosing your cabinetry construction, there are really only two options to consider: inset or full overlay. One is not better than the other, and both offer endless design possibilities. But each, in my opinion, have their unique advantages. Here are a few key points to help you evaluate which type of cabinet construction is the right fit for your home.

Inset Cabinetry

Note the bead around the perimeter of the frame on these inset island cabinets with a custom-designed decorative medallion.

Inset cabinet construction is how cabinetry was originally made in America way back when. It traces back to early artisan cabinetmakers, and many antique pieces of furniture also feature this construction. It has made quite a comeback in the past decade as a highly sought-after look for new kitchens and bathrooms with warmth and character. Naturally, inset cabinetry leans more towards the traditional side of cabinetry design and is used especially when trying to emulate the style of a historical time period.

The cabinet box has something that looks like a picture frame on the front, with 1 ½” stiles (sides) and rails (tops and bottoms). The door then sits inside of that face frame, leaving approximately 1/16” of an inch gap on all sides. The door is then flush with the frame of the cabinet box, hence the commonly used phrase, “flush-inset.” Sometimes the frame has a ¼” bead detail applied around the edge of the frame, which adds more detail and dresses up the frame a bit. This style is referred to as “beaded inset”. Due to the exposed face frame, inset cabinetry offers either a concealed hinge (hidden) or a more traditional exposed hinge (typically a barrel hinge), which sits proud of the face frame and comes in a variety of finishes.

Due to the precision required to construct inset cabinets, they demand a higher price tag, typically anywhere from 15%-30% more than a full overlay option (discussed below). Inset cabinets also have less interior storage space due to the size of the face frame (1 ½” on each side). The frame of inset cabinetry is constructed out of wood, making them susceptible to expansion and contraction of the frame, which means doors could rub during the humid months. Still, inset cabinetry is highly desirable and can be used to achieve a casual, comfortable look and feel.

Full Overlay Cabinetry

Here door faces touch one another, concealing the frame behind them.

Full Overlay (also called Full Access) cabinetry is a more streamlined way to construct cabinetry. This design was developed in Europe in the 1950’s following WWII as a result of the rising cost of lumber. A booming housing market and a need for efficiencies created the perfect environment for more ergonomic cabinetry and hardware development.

Full overlay cabinetry offers a better utilization of space, as it uses the entire carcass of the cabinet and is typically constructed using a much thinner frame of ¾” as opposed the inset frame of 1 ½”. In full overlay cabinetry construction, the door sits on top of the face frame, concealing the entire face frame and leaving only the door exposed in plain sight. Because the door sits on top of the frame, this type of construction adds an additional ¾” to the overall depth of the cabinet. Engineered wood products are used more frequently in this type of cabinetry construction for strength, durability, and flexibility in fluctuating temperatures.

Exposed hinges are not available on full overlay cabinets, and decorative hardware is required. Due to the fact that cabinet doors are exposed (i.e. they sit on top of the cabinetry frame), they are more prone to damage. Full overlay cabinetry requires less skill to manufacture and install, which means they are a more affordable option. Full overlay cabinetry leans more modern, stylistically speaking, and is a very popular choice for those hoping to achieve a sleek, chic aesthetic.

Renovation road can be a long, arduous trip full of tedious decisions and endless options.  When it comes to selecting your cabinetry, I hope this post helped steer you in the right direction. I love talking shop, so if this post has sparked your interest, please contact me. I’d love to hear from you!