At Candace Plotz Design, we often find ourselves drawn to the unexpected—to materials that feel storied, layered, and full of character. Burl wood is one of those timeless details that never fails to stop us in our tracks. With its swirling grain and organic patterns, burl is the kind of design element that brings both soul and sophistication to a space.

Spring always brings with it a sense of clarity — that moment when the sun lingers a little longer, the light shifts just right, and everything feels ready for a refresh. In design, it’s also the perfect time to re-evaluate what’s still working, what’s feeling tired, and what’s making us fall in love with our homes all over again.

For years, white oak has dominated interiors, offering a light, airy foundation that felt effortlessly modern. But as design continues to embrace more depth and richness, we’re seeing a resurgence of deeper, warmer wood tones. Think walnut, mahogany, and richly stained oak—finishes that exude sophistication and warmth while adding contrast and character to a space.

When designing a home that truly reflects your style and needs, the balance between custom and off-the-shelf pieces is key. Some elements deserve the tailored touch of custom craftsmanship, while others can be sourced readily without sacrificing luxury. Knowing where to invest and where to streamline ensures a home that feels intentional, personal, and polished.

Design trends often look to the past for inspiration, and right now, we’re witnessing the rise of rufflecore—a movement that beautifully blends the nostalgic warmth of grandmillennial style with the soft, rustic charm of cottagecore. Rufflecore celebrates the art of embellishment through pleats, gathers, and frills, creating spaces that are both romantic and refined. Far from being a fleeting trend, it strikes a delicate balance between vintage romance and contemporary elegance, offering an aesthetic that feels timeless yet refreshingly modern.

In the world of interior design, two words often surface when discussing how a home comes together: curated and collected. While they may seem interchangeable, they represent distinct approaches to creating a space that feels layered, intentional, and deeply personal. We believe the most compelling interiors strike a balance between the two—where thoughtful curation meets the effortless charm of a well-loved collection.

A design consultation is more than just a meeting—it’s the first step in creating a home that feels undeniably you. Whether you’re embarking on a full-scale renovation, building from the ground up, or refining a single space, preparation is key to a seamless and inspired process. To make the most of your time with your designer, here are three things to consider before your consultation.

The powder room is often the smallest space in a home, yet it holds endless potential for impact. Free from the constraints of everyday function, it’s an opportunity to push design boundaries, embrace bold choices, and create a space that feels memorable and refined.

Lighting is one of the most powerful tools in interior design, yet it’s often an afterthought. The truth is, a well-lit room doesn’t just illuminate; it transforms. The right light highlights beauty, shapes mood, and brings harmony to a space. The secret? Layering. By combining different types of lighting, you can create an environment that’s dynamic, versatile, and always welcoming, no matter the time of day.

Colour is so much more than a visual experience—it's a conversation between our minds and the spaces we inhabit. When we talk about colour theory in interior design, we're diving into the profound way colours interact with each other and influence the mood, energy, and perception of a room. It’s where the magic happens, where a designer’s instinct meets science, and where creativity flows freely.