There’s something we always come back to when thinking about a space: it should feel finished but never overdone. The best rooms are layered over time, with pieces that are as functional as they are beautiful. During a recent walk through Helms, these are the pieces and details that stood out, the ones we would choose without hesitation for a spring refresh.
A Sofa That Grounds the Room
We are always looking for upholstery that feels relaxed but still tailored. A slipcovered linen sofa in a soft neutral is one of those anchor pieces that works in almost any space. It sets the tone without trying too hard. Cisco’s Spring collection brings with it a fresh perspective on comfort and color. New fabrics in soft, nature-inspired tones and airy textures breathe new life into their signature slipcovered pieces. Effortless, inviting, and thoughtfully crafted, the collection captures the ease of the season, designed for spaces that feel both relaxed and refined.
A Coffee Table That Lives Well
We are always drawn to solid wood coffee tables with simple lines, something durable, timeless, and easy to live with. It’s often the most-used piece in the room, so it should hold up beautifully. Room & Board has a great selection of wooden tables but the one that we are gravitating to is the Truxel, made from reclaimed redwood trees that once grew in urban areas of Sacramento, CA. Urban Wood Rescue reclaims the trees and then the slabs are sent to Coffey Custom Builds, who finishes each table with complementary butterfly joints. Each piece reveals a unique history with signature marks and knots.
Lighting That Warms the Room
A pair of aged brass sconces or a simple ceramic table lamp can completely shift the mood. We look for lighting that feels collected; pieces that add warmth and a sense of quiet character. Did you know that Rejuvenation has a “vintage” collection? Before you buy new you might consider searching for that one-of-a-kind light, rug, or piece of art, that immediately brings depth and coziness into your home.
The Functional Minimalist
If spring is about clearing the clutter, Scandinavian Designs is the blueprint. Walking through their showroom, you’re reminded that furniture shouldn’t just fill a room; it should let the room breathe. We’re currently eyeing their Leevi collection; the light ash wood and tapered legs offer a mid-century nod that feels incredibly current. It’s the kind of ‘tactile minimalism’ that makes a space feel organized without feeling cold.
Where Function Meets Form
Kitchens and baths are where we like to invest in pieces that are both beautiful and built to last. A well-designed faucet or sculptural sink becomes part of the daily experience and because it’s something you use constantly, it should feel just as considered as the rest of the home. Now through March 23, Kohler is hosting their “Love Your Look” event with special savings on bathroom and kitchen designs.
A Statement That Feels Collected
Every space needs a moment, something with presence. A sculptural chair, an iconic piece, or a work that feels one-of-a-kind to add a bit of personality. These are the elements that make a room feel truly your own. Jules Seltzer Associates is a showroom filled with presence. We are loving Fritz Hansen, a brand that embodies the definition of a statement piece – craftsmanship, unique design and a sense of premium quality.
Books That Make It Personal
Books are one of our favorite styling elements. A stack of art or architecture titles adds instant personality and they’re always a conversation starter. Arcana: Books on the Arts is a treasure trove of selections, and this spring we would probably pick up Kehinde Wiley At The National Gallery, a collection of new work by American artist Kehinde Wiley, as he explores the European landscape tradition through film and painting.
Where Design Conversations Continue
Some of the best ideas happen outside the design studio or home office. A simple meal, a table you linger at, it’s all part of the creative process. We especially like to find comfort and inspiration at Pasta Sisters. And during the month of March, for every plate of their signature homemade gnocchi purchased, Pasta Sisters will donate $1 to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles as part of the Make March Matter campaign. One plate of delicious gnocchi can make a real difference!
The Finishing Layer: Window Treatments
Window treatments are one of the most transformative elements in a room. We tend to lean toward tailored Roman shades or soft linen drapery because they filter light beautifully and make everything feel complete. Speak to one of The Shade Store experts who can guide your in making the right choice for your home.
A Season of Rejuvenation
Spring at Helms is about more than just a change in decor; it’s about opening the windows and letting your home breathe again. Whether you’re drawn to the sun-drenched textures of a linen sofa or the organic warmth of wood, these pieces are designed to evolve with the light of the new season.
We invite you to spend the day wandering our historic, tree-lined district and discover how a few thoughtful layers can completely transform your sanctuary. This Spring, we have our own refresh with new arrivals to the Helms family: IKEA, Hayama by WATAMI and Folks Pizzeria. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get design inspiration, new store openings, and upcoming events right to your inbox.
Visit us this weekend to experience the Spring Edit in person.