An Ask Glenna Perspective

Over the years, I have worked with clients at many different stages of life and in homes of every scale. While each project is deeply personal, I have noticed that the same underlying questions surface again and again. They are rarely about trends or specific pieces. More often, they reflect a desire for clarity and reassurance within a process that can feel both exciting and, at times, vulnerable.

The advice I give most often has been shaped by those conversations. It is guidance refined through experience, through observation, and through the quiet patterns that emerge when people truly begin living in the spaces we have designed together.

Q: What is the most important place to start when designing a home?

A: I always encourage clients to begin with how they want their home to feel, rather than focusing first on what they want it to contain. Images, furnishings, and finishes are useful tools, but on their own they are simply components. When they are developed thoughtfully and in relationship to one another, they create something more powerful… a feeling.

When we talk about how a space should support your daily rhythm, restore your energy, or foster connection, the design gains direction. Decisions become less about individual preferences and more about a shared intention. From that place, the home begins to feel cohesive because every choice is anchored in something deeper than aesthetics alone.

Q: Why do so many clients feel overwhelmed early in the design process?

A: Overwhelm often stems from trying to resolve every layer of the design at once. There are many moving parts, such as architectural decisions, furnishings, materials, lighting, and without a clear sequence, even exciting choices can begin to feel heavy.

Early in a project, my role is to create structure within that complexity. We begin with the elements that shape everything else: layout, proportion, and flow. Once those foundational decisions are thoughtfully resolved, the process naturally becomes more manageable. What once felt urgent begins to feel organized, and decisions unfold with greater clarity.

Q: How do you help clients make decisions they feel good about long term?

A: Much of it comes down to focus and to careful editing. Not every beautiful idea belongs in the same home, and not every option needs to be explored fully. Part of our responsibility is to refine the vision so that it remains clear and consistent from beginning to end.

When the field of choices is narrowed with intention, decisions feel steadier. Clients are not reacting in the moment; they are contributing to a larger, well-considered whole. Over time, that discipline is what allows a home to feel resolved rather than overdesigned, layered rather than crowded.

Q: How important is it to think beyond immediate needs when designing a home?

A: It is essential, because homes are not static and neither are the lives lived within them. A well-designed space should not only serve today’s routines, but also anticipate how those routines may shift over time.

We think carefully about how families grow, how priorities evolve, and how spaces might need to adapt. Layout, circulation, and material selections may not always command attention visually, yet they quietly shape daily comfort for years. Designing with that long view in mind allows a home to mature gracefully, supporting life as it unfolds rather than requiring constant correction.

Q: What ultimately defines successful design in your experience?

A: For me, successful design is not defined by a single moment or a dramatic reveal. It is defined by whether we have truly captured the feeling our clients hoped for and translated it into a space that reflects them in ways they may not have fully articulated themselves.

There is a particular moment I often witness: a client walking into their completed home and recognizing, almost immediately, that it feels aligned with who they are and how they want to live. The rooms support their daily rhythm, welcome family and friends with ease, and offer a sense of restoration at the end of the day.

When that happens, the design does not need to announce itself. It feels intuitive and composed, because every decision has been considered in relation to the whole.

And in many ways, that brings us back to where we began. If we start not with objects, but with feeling, and remain anchored to that intention throughout the journey, the result is a home that does more than meet expectations. It delivers the sense of ease and belonging our clients were seeking all along, often in ways that gently exceed what they imagined possible.

That is the advice I return to, year after year.

– Glenna

The post The Design Advice I Give Most Often and Why appeared first on Glenna Stone Interiors.

The work that begins before anything is drawn

Right now, we are deep in the early stages of a large new build for clients in New Hope. On the surface, very little appears to be happening. There are no finished rooms to photograph, no furnishings to install, no moments of reveal.

Yet this is where some of the most important work is unfolding.

Days are spent in conversation – about how the home will feel across seasons, how spaces should support both quiet routines and gatherings, how the architecture and interiors should speak the same language. We are studying how light moves across the site, how views will be framed, and how the home will be experienced as one moves from room to room.

None of this is visible yet. All of it matters deeply.

early decisions create the ceiling for what’s possible

In a project of this scale, early alignment is everything. Decisions made now quietly establish the language the home speaks.  

In New Hope, that has meant slowing the process before accelerating it – ensuring that spatial relationships feel resolved before details are layered in, and that architectural intentions are fully understood before interior concepts are refined.

When this work is done thoughtfully, rooms feel intuitive rather than impressive for their own sake; materials feel intentional and effortless, not decorative; and later decisions feel guided, not forced.

The goal isn’t speed. It’s confidence.

Editing before design ever becomes visible

Editing does not happen in isolation, and it does not happen without seeing and touching materials. In this phase, we are actively pulling finishes, textures, and references that align with the visual story beginning to take shape.

We explore materials in conversation with our clients, watching closely for what resonates. What draws them in. What feels right instinctively. These early reactions matter, because they reveal the emotional language of the home long before it is articulated in words.

From there, the editing begins.

It is not about narrowing for the sake of simplicity. It is about artfully combining what the client responds to most, refining relationships between materials, and shaping them into a cohesive whole. Each selection is considered not only on its own, but in dialogue with the others, so that together they support the feeling we want the home to evoke.

This is where intuition and discipline meet. Where abundance is refined into intention. And where the emotional experience of the home begins to take its clearest form, long before anything is installed.

Designing the experience, not just the home

The early phase also shapes something clients often don’t expect: how the process itself will feel.

In a complex new build like this one, thoughtful early planning creates space for ease later. It allows clients to stay connected without being consumed, informed without being overwhelmed. Decisions unfold in sequence, rather than all at once.

This doesn’t happen by chance. It’s the result of careful orchestration, clear communication, and a deep respect for the trust clients place in us from the beginning.

when the quiet work is done well

Months from now, when this New Hope home begins to take physical form, the early decisions will no longer be visible. What will be visible is the result: spaces that feel resolved, calm, and deeply considered.

That is the mark of good early design work – it disappears into the experience of living.

What clients rarely see is not a lack of activity, but an abundance of intention. And it is this invisible phase that allows everything that follows to feel exactly as it should. The most meaningful design work often happens long before it’s seen; it lives in the decisions that guide everything else.

-Glenna

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The 2026 Color of the Year: A Return to Quiet

Yes – the 2026 Color of the Year is white. And while that announcement has sparked debate across the design world, the choice reflects something deeper than trend fatigue. After years of bold, saturated color stories, this moment signals a collective desire for calm, clarity, and restraint.

The whites defining 2026 are not stark or sterile. They are warm, nuanced, and intentionally soft – designed to create breathing room within a space. This quieter palette allows the focus to shift away from color alone and toward the elements that give a home its soul: materiality, craftsmanship, and thoughtful layering.

Why White Feels So Polarizing

White has always been one of the most emotionally charged colors in interior design. For some, it represents peace and simplicity; for others, it raises concerns about coldness or lack of personality. Much of this reaction stems from the idea that white is an absence of design rather than a deliberate choice.

In reality, working with white requires more intention, not less. Without variation, white can feel flat. But when layered thoughtfully, it becomes expressive. Subtle undertones and a range of finishes – matte, honed, polished, woven – create contrast that keeps a neutral space visually engaging and deeply considered.

Why Neutrals Work Best When Texture Takes the Lead

In luxury interiors, neutrals are most successful when texture becomes the primary design language. When color steps back, every surface, material, and form has the opportunity to stand out on its own.

A sculptural chair upholstered in bouclé feels more intentional against smooth plaster walls. A richly grained wood table gains presence when paired with soft linens or woven rugs. Stone, metal, wood, and textile each bring their own character –  and it’s the contrast between them that creates depth without visual noise. This is where neutrals truly shine: not through sameness, but through variation.

Choosing the Right White Is a Design Decision

At Glenna Stone Interiors, choosing white is never a one-size-fits-all decision. We consider natural light, architectural details, and surrounding materials before selecting a palette. Just as importantly, we look at how textures will interact – where softness is needed, where structure should appear, and how finishes will play off one another.

Layering linen with wool, pairing honed stone with polished metal, or balancing tailored upholstery with organic materials ensures that each piece has presence. This thoughtful contrast allows a neutral home to feel warm, dimensional, and intentionally composed rather than uniform.

Why White Endures

The conversation around the 2026 Color of the Year may be loud, but the takeaway is quiet: a renewed appreciation for thoughtful, timeless design. White endures because it adapts – providing a foundation that elevates texture, craftsmanship, and personal expression.

When neutrals are layered with care, every element is allowed to stand on its own while contributing to a cohesive whole. In a world that often feels overstimulated, this balance offers something increasingly rare: a home that feels calm, considered, and deeply livable.

Ready to explore a palette that reflects how you want to live in 2026?  We’d be honored to guide you.

-Glenna

The post Why Is the 2026 Color of the Year White? And Why Neutrals Still Matter in Luxury Design appeared first on Glenna Stone Interiors.

Gratitude and Its Influence on Luxury Home Design

As the year comes to a close and the holiday season settles in, I find myself reflecting on how deeply gratitude is interwoven into the work we do at Glenna Stone Interiors. True luxury is never just about beauty – it is about intention, collaboration, and the relationships that support every thoughtfully designed space.

I am profoundly thankful for our clients, our trusted creative partners, and the wider design community whose insight and inspiration continually elevate our practice. Their dedication and artistry make it possible to create interiors that enrich the way we live, gather, and celebrate – especially during this festive time of year.

Global Design Takeaways from the 2025 Summit in Madrid

I recently returned from the 2025 Design Leadership Summit in Madrid – an unforgettable gathering of leaders in luxury interiors, architecture, and residential design from around the world. Walking through Madrid’s grand boulevards, historic palaces, and contemporary design studios was a reminder of how gracefully the city balances timeless tradition with modern expression.

A particular highlight was the Kravet dinner held at the home of Lorenzo Castillo. His home, saturated with color, pattern, vintage pieces, and an extraordinary array of art, revealed a powerful truth: beauty is often curated over time, shaped by history, memory, and an openness to collecting across styles and eras. It was an evening that celebrated craftsmanship, heritage, and the shared belief that exceptional design is a universal language.

Craftsmanship and Community as Pillars of Meaningful Design

This season also inspires deep gratitude for the extraordinary team of artisans, builders, custom cabinetry experts, and craftspeople who bring our design concepts to life. Their mastery transforms ideas into homes shaped by intention, comfort, and refinement.

One of the insights that stayed with me throughout my time in Europe was the profound appreciation for the old and the lived-in. The homes I visited radiated warmth and welcome, yet beneath that beauty was a depth of story – a respect for pieces that have been touched by time. It reminded me how meaningful layered interiors can be, and how much character is created when we honor what already exists.

And yes, they use real candles – everywhere. Dozens of them. There is something wonderfully unapologetic about embracing real flame, natural materials, and the gentle imperfections that come with authenticity. It underscores a philosophy that resonates deeply with me: that true luxury values what is genuine, tactile, and crafted by hand.

In Madrid, I was struck by how aligned these values are across cultures – particularly the emphasis on craftsmanship, sustainability, accessible design, and innovative material use. Whether expressed through custom millwork, bespoke furniture, or thoughtful lighting, the global design community is united by a commitment to creating spaces that are functional, personal, and enduring.

Design Inspirations Guiding Our 2026 Projects

Returning home as the holidays approached, I felt renewed clarity and creative momentum. The textures, materials, and philosophies I encountered in Madrid will undoubtedly influence our 2026 projects – introducing new layers of richness and global perspective while remaining true to our signature sensibility and devotion to timeless interiors.

Throughout the trip, I found myself paying close attention to the layers of detail that quietly shape a room. The way a furniture leg meets its frame, the intelligent integration of decorative lighting within a bookcase, or the thoughtful marrying of patterns – all of these small, intentional gestures contribute to spaces that feel considered, cohesive, and deeply personal. These nuanced moments of craftsmanship and design will inspire extraordinary details in our upcoming projects, reminding me that refinement often reveals itself in the subtleties.

As we plan for the year ahead, this infusion of inspiration reinforces how important it is to both honor tradition and embrace innovation – two forces that defined 2025 and will continue to guide our work in the months to come.

End-of-Year Reflections on Luxury, Intention, and Home

As I look back on this extraordinary year, I’m filled with gratitude – gratitude for our clients who trust us with their homes; for our collaborators who elevate every project; and for the global design community that continually challenges us to grow, refine, and imagine what’s possible.

How lucky am I to learn and create alongside such extraordinary designers, in such extraordinary places.

This year reaffirmed what I’ve always believed: that luxury interiors are about more than aesthetics. They are about meaning, connection, and perspective. Each project becomes a reflection of these shared experiences – an ongoing dialogue between beauty and intention.

As we close out 2025, my hope is that your home is filled with warmth, joy, and moments of rest. Thank you for being part of our community and for allowing us to do what we love each day. We look forward to a new year filled with creativity, collaboration, and inspired design.

Wishing you a peaceful holiday season and a beautiful start to 2026.

– Glenna

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Celebrating Design, Artistry, and the Joy of Giving

As the holiday season unfolds, there’s a special joy in finding gifts that feel as meaningful as they are beautiful – pieces that reflect thoughtfulness, design, and a sense of place. This year’s curated collection from Glenna Stone Interiors, an award-winning luxury interior designer in Philadelphia and the Main Line, celebrates artistry and intention. Each selection highlights craftsmanship, creativity, and the warmth that defines our full-service interior design firm in Philadelphia. From locally made treasures to inspired experiences, these gifts bring comfort, connection, and a touch of refined design to every home.

FOR THE STYLISH NESTERS

For the design enthusiast who loves blending modern interiors with timeless comfort, this gift adds a note of handcrafted beauty. Galbraith & Paul Blossom Throw Pillow, $145 from Room & Board – Hand-printed in Philadelphia, this artisanal textile by Galbraith & Paul showcases exceptional craftsmanship and artistic pattern work. It’s a perfect accent for anyone who appreciates quality details and locally inspired design.

FOR THE CULINARY CONNOISSEUR

Ideal for those who find joy in gathering and entertaining, these essentials celebrate both taste and thoughtful presentation. Danny & Joe’s Famous Pizza Kit, $80 at Di Bruno Bros – Bring the charm of an authentic Italian kitchen home with this gourmet kit from one of Philadelphia’s most beloved culinary icons. It’s a delightful gift for hosts who savor shared moments and artisanal flavor.

FOR THE ART ENTHUSIAST

For those who draw inspiration from creativity and the beauty of artistic expression, this gift celebrates imagination in every form. Woodmere Art Museum Membership, Starting at $40 – Give the gift of art, culture, and community with an annual membership to this cherished Philadelphia institution. Nestled in Chestnut Hill, Woodmere Art Museum showcases regional artists and offers exhibitions, lectures, and events that inspire year-round.

FOR THE WELLNESS AFICIONADO

Encourage tranquility and self-care with gifts that blend design and wellbeing – a reflection of the balance we seek in both interiors and life. Cure Winter Cream, $96 at Cure de Repos – A luxurious winter essential crafted for indulgence and renewal, it combines elegance, quality, and care in perfect harmony.

FOR THE MODERN EXPLORER

For the traveler or design lover with an adventurous spirit, this timeless piece brings function and beauty together. Personalized Lara Weekender Tote, $154 from Threadwell Embroidery Design Studio – This custom monogrammed tote embodies thoughtful craftsmanship and refined simplicity. Its design reflects the same bespoke sensibility that defines high-end interior design and style.

Celebrating Design, Community, and Connection

Gift-giving is one of the true joys of the season – and at Glenna Stone Interiors, we believe that the most memorable gifts, like the most beautiful interiors, are chosen with intention. Each piece in our guide reflects the creativity, craftsmanship, and comfort that inspire our work every day. Whether you’re celebrating someone special or simply refreshing your home, these selections bring a touch of thoughtful design to the art of giving.

Happy Holidays from all of us at Glenna Stone Interiors – may your season be filled with warmth, laughter, and the beauty of home.

The post The 2025 Holiday Gift Guide by Glenna Stone Interiors: Local Treasures & Luxury Home Finds appeared first on Glenna Stone Interiors.

Coming off What’s New, What’s Next in New York, where I saw some truly beautiful fabric and rug introductions, combined with a recent visit to local textile studio, Galbraith & Paul, I found myself reflecting on just how central fabrics are to what we do. These moments really underscored for me that layering textiles is one of the purest mediums of the art we create in people’s homes.

In my work as an interior designer in Philadelphia, I’ve found that textiles are often the unsung heroes of a home. They’re not simply finishing touches; they are foundational elements that bring warmth, depth, and personality to a space. For me, textiles are where design becomes truly livable and where beauty meets comfort in the most meaningful way.

Why Textiles Are the Heart of Luxury Interior Design

Clients often wonder how to choose textiles that balance beauty and everyday practicality. The truth is that fabrics are both visually dynamic and technically complex. A family room sofa, for instance, must withstand daily life without losing its elegance. Performance fabrics have become a game-changer here and today’s options are softer and more stylish than they once were. Not all performance lines are created equal, so knowing what fiber contents stand the test of time is essential.

Q: What are the best textiles for everyday living in a luxury home?
A: High-quality performance fabrics are often the answer. They provide stain resistance and durability while still feeling soft and elegant, proving that practicality and luxury can coexist beautifully.

Sustainability and Textiles

Living and working in a city with such a rich design history, I’m continually inspired by Philadelphia’s tradition of craftsmanship. Many clients ask how textiles fit into a sustainable approach to design. The answer lies in partnering with American mills and local artisans, working with recycled materials, or ensuring natural dying methods.  This sourcing strategy reduces shipping distances, supports skilled craftspeople, and ensures materials are produced responsibly, often with natural fibers and non-toxic dye processes.

The Role of Textiles in Layered Design

Mixing patterns and textures is one of the most common questions clients bring up: How do you layer fabrics without overwhelming a space? The secret lies in scale, balance, application, and texture. A combination of small, medium, and large patterns, anchored by neutrals, creates harmony. Layering textiles in rugs, accent pillows, drapery fabric, and upholstery adds richness through contrast and keeps even a neutral palette feeling multidimensional. It’s much like curating a wardrobe in determining how to express the look you are trying to achieve.

Textiles Define the Feeling of Luxury

Our passion lies in curating the very best for the project, balancing beauty and function.  We love discovering a new handwoven fabric that feels fresh yet timeless, or layering mohair and embroidery in ways that are artisanal yet current. Textiles tell the story of a home. They evolve with your lifestyle, carry the memory of family gatherings, and transform a house into a space of approachability, comfort, and security.

– Glenna

Check out last month’s perspective Before and After: From Drab to Dream!

Glenna Stone Interiors is an award-winning Philadelphia interior design firm serving Philadelphia, the Main Line, and surrounding cities. Utilizing her background and training in interior design, architecture, and engineering, Glenna specializes in creating interiors for residential and commercial design settings. We invite you to visit our website, view our residential interior design portfolio, and catch up on the latest interior design concepts in our perspectives!

The post Textiles That Tell a Story: The Fabric of Luxury Interior Design appeared first on Glenna Stone Interiors.

Transforming Challenges into Timeless Design | A Bryn Mawr Family Home

Every project presents unique challenges, and for this Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania residence, those challenges became opportunities to create lasting beauty and function. Our clients envisioned a home that could grow with their family while still feeling elegant enough to host gatherings – a balance of everyday comfort and refined luxury.

Transforming an Awkward Space into a Serene, Spacious Primary Suite

One of the biggest hurdles was the primary suite. The existing bathroom was undersized and awkwardly shaped, with sloped ceilings limiting ceiling height and usable space. Expanding it without overwhelming the bedroom required a thoughtful approach. By borrowing just a few feet from the bedroom, we were able to more than double the bathroom footprint. The result is a serene retreat featuring a double vanity with a central makeup station, a spacious shower, linen storage, and a separate water closet.

Reimagining Layouts for Better Circulation and Family-Friendly Living

Flow and functionality were another challenge. The original layout left the dining room too small and the powder room poorly placed. By relocating the powder room to a more central area, we relocated the old dining room to where the breakfast room was located and converted the old dining room to the den and powder room –  opened up space for a larger dining room while also improving circulation throughout the first floor. We also carved out a cozy lounge off the kitchen – perfect for coffee in the morning or conversation during entertaining – and redesigned the kitchen to be more open and functional. Note that we were able to relocate one of the original built-ins in the dining room to the perfect location in the new dining room (pictured above.)

Balancing Style and Durability

Designing a Family-Ready Home with Lasting Impact

While solving space challenges was critical, so was designing for family life. We introduced performance fabrics and durable materials to ensure longevity, while layering in tactile textures, curated artwork, and statement lighting to elevate the aesthetic. The dining room wallpaper has become a favorite detail – a soft blue pattern that greets guests from the entry and creates a subtle “wow” moment that ties the home together.

Turning Design Challenges into Timeless, Tailored Solutions

By addressing each design challenge with intention, we created a home that feels both luxurious and livable. What once were limitations – sloped ceilings, tight layouts, and restricted flow – became opportunities to craft thoughtful solutions that reflect both the character of the home and the needs of the family. This project embodies the Glenna Stone Interiors philosophy: timeless, tailored, and always guided by the belief that every challenge has the potential to inspire great design.

– Glenna

Check out last month’s perspective on Timeless Luxury Interiors for Wellness and Aging in Place.

Glenna Stone Interiors is an award-winning Philadelphia interior design firm serving Philadelphia, the Main Line, and surrounding cities. Utilizing her background and training in interior design, architecture, and engineering, Glenna specializes in creating interiors for residential and commercial design settings. We invite you to visit our website, view our residential interior design portfolio, and catch up on the latest interior design concepts in our perspectives!

The post Interior Design Before and After: From Drab to Dream appeared first on Glenna Stone Interiors.

This August, in honor of National Wellness Month, we’re celebrating the profound connection between wellness and the spaces we call home. At Glenna Stone Interiors, aging in place means creating a home that evolves with you–supporting comfort, accessibility, and well-being while remaining true to your personal style. We believe future-proofing a home should never mean compromising its beauty or elegance.

Thoughtful Interior Design for Every Stage of Life

Designing for wellness across every stage of life requires a mindset shift–one that looks ahead proactively, anticipating how a space can support you for decades to come. Our approach blends thoughtful planning with timeless luxury. From lever-style door handles and plumbing fixtures for easy gripping, to flush flooring transitions that reduce tripping hazards, to layered lighting that supports vision and circadian rhythms, every detail enhances both functionality and sophistication.

How Glenna Stone Designs Homes to Evolve Gracefully

Working with an Interior Designer Philadelphia Homeowners Trust

We also help clients plan for the future with design features that adapt over time. For example, we’ve designed elevator chutes that function as fireplaces or millwork niches today, but can later convert into vertical lift space when needed. These solutions allow your home to age with you—without sacrificing aesthetic integrity.

Wellness is also sensory. We prioritize acoustical comfort, smart lighting for circadian support, and organic materials that bring warmth and calm. Kitchens become ergonomic spaces for healthy living; bathrooms feel like spa retreats; and bedrooms invite restorative rest.

Our goal is to design homes that evolve with grace—supporting physical ease, emotional well-being, and a timeless sense of style to help families welcome every generation, foster connection and provide you peace of mind knowing your home will adapt seamlessly to life’s transitions.

–Glenna

Ready to design a forever home that nurtures your wellness journey?
Contact Glenna Stone Interiors to explore how thoughtful, timeless design will support your lifestyle now and for years to come.

Check out last month’s perspective on The Power of Personalization: Bespoke Interiors from Philadelphia Artisans.

Glenna Stone Interiors is an award-winning Philadelphia interior design firm serving Philadelphia, the Main Line, and surrounding cities. Utilizing her background and training in interior design, architecture, and engineering, Glenna specializes in creating interiors for residential and commercial design settings. We invite you to visit our website, view our residential interior design portfolio, and catch up on the latest interior design concepts in our perspectives!

The post Timeless Luxury Interiors for Wellness and Aging in Place appeared first on Glenna Stone Interiors.

At Glenna Stone Interiors, one of the elements that truly sets our work apart is our deep commitment to artisan-created and bespoke products. Our work is defined by a passion for pieces with soul: bespoke furnishings, artisan-made décor, and custom elements that infuse every room with story and intention. While custom typically refers to modifying an existing item to fit your needs, bespoke means something created entirely from scratch, just for you. It’s personal, purposeful, and crafted with extraordinary care.

Designing bespoke pieces allows our team to thoughtfully craft elements that bring depth, character, and a distinct sense of place to each project.  We collaborate closely with incredibly talented local artists and makers– each one bringing a wealth of experiences and luxury craftsmanship to their work.  These partnerships allow us to stretch creatively, blending interior design with fine art and impeccable quality. Together, we shape pieces that reflect your life, your values, your taste.

Philadelphia’s rich heritage in fine furniture making dates back to the earliest days of American craftsmanship, and that tradition remains vibrantly alive today. From custom millwork by skilled local artisans to handcrafted furnishings and decor, our city is home to a remarkable breadth of talent. Metalworkers, painters, and woodworkers alike bring not only technical expertise, but a deep passion for their craft. We take pride in celebrating and sustaining this legacy, thoughtfully commissioning locally made, sustainably sourced, and impeccably crafted elements for each of our projects.

Bespoke design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about storytelling. When we design interiors that celebrate Philadelphia’s rich history and vibrant artisan community, we create spaces that are not only beautiful, but deeply meaningful.  Every Glenna Stone Interiors project is an opportunity to design something never seen before—something that elevates your space and reflects your identity, now and for years to come.

-Glenna

Check out last month’s perspective on Designing for Connection: How Outdoor Spaces Boost Wellbeing and Joy.

Glenna Stone Interiors is an award-winning Philadelphia interior design firm serving Philadelphia, the Main Line, and surrounding cities. Utilizing her background and training in interior design, architecture, and engineering, Glenna specializes in creating interiors for residential and commercial design settings. We invite you to visit our website, view our portfolio, and catch up on the latest interior design concepts in our perspectives!

The post The Power of Personalization: Bespoke Interiors from Philadelphia Artisans appeared first on Glenna Stone Interiors.

I recently designed an outdoor entertaining space for my own family—one that welcomes flexibility, connection, and impromptu gatherings. With workdays fully scheduled and weekends packed with activities, we craved a space intentionally designed to help us slow down.  Our new space does just that—encouraging us to gather, unwind, and enjoy time with the people we love.

Why Connection Matters in Design

Science confirms our natural instinct to be together.  Strong social bonds improve sleep, lower stress, and even reduce the risk of chronic illness. The simple act of gathering—sharing stories, meals and laughter—directly boost wellbeing. That’s why, when my team and I begin envisioning outdoor living designs, the priority is always connection through intentional space planning.  As interior designers, we create purposeful zones: cozy seating for intimate chats, larger lounging areas for entertaining, and tranquil pockets for solo reflection. Whether it’s a screened porch, a firepit lounge, poolside cabana, or a garden pathway, I design and curate spaces to invite interaction and presence.

The Power of Materials and Senses

When designing outdoor spaces, I always strive to strike a balance between beauty and performance. Materials need to be durable and sustainable, but also feel elevated and welcoming. Thankfully, today’s innovations make that possible—weather-resistant upholstery, washable throws, and natural wood finishes allow comfort and style to coexist effortlessly. I love how natural elements, like wood-paneled ceilings and lush greenery, ground a space and connect it to the landscape—something I’ve done in my own backyard. But outdoor living isn’t just visual; it’s a full sensory experience.

Thoughtful lighting design—like cove lighting, portable sconces, and subtle path lights—creates ambiance while enhancing function and safety. I also always include fragrant elements, like pots of lavender, to add a calming, welcoming scent. For me, great design is about more than how a space looks—it’s how it feels, and how it uplifts everyone who enters it.

More Than a Space—A Sanctuary

Ultimately, these outdoor living spaces aren’t just extensions of the home—they’re sanctuaries of wellness. Purposefully created spaces that help us move beyond schedules and routines, embracing nature’s ability to restore and reconnect with what truly matters.  Most importantly, they’re places where joyful memories are made—and science tells us those moments are powerful contributors to health and happiness.

I can’t think of a better way to help my clients—and my family—than by creating space for joy, nature, and meaningful connection, resulting in a life that feels truly well-lived.

Wishing you a wonderful summer – Glenna

Check out last month’s perspective on High Point Market: Elevating Design Vision and Craftsmanship.

Glenna Stone Interiors is an award-winning Philadelphia interior design firm serving Philadelphia, the Main Line, and surrounding cities. Utilizing her background and training in interior design, architecture, and engineering, Glenna specializes in creating interiors for residential and commercial design settings. We invite you to visit our website, view our portfolio, and catch up on the latest interior design concepts in our perspectives!

The post Designing for Connection: How Outdoor Spaces Boost Wellbeing and Joy appeared first on Glenna Stone Interiors.