It had been far too long since our last window-shopping adventure. For those who don’t know, these outings aren’t sponsored or part of any partnership—we simply walk through a store with a camera and photograph whatever sparks ideas. This particular visit happened a few months ago, and only now have I uploaded the photos and finally sat down to write about it. I finally made it into my first Jonathan Adler store while we were in DC for a signing, and I was completely smitten.
I’m not proud of how giddy I got. I practically bounced from display to display, grinning like a kid in a candy shop, but the staff were kind and I wasn’t escorted out, so it was a win. Here’s a run-through of what caught my eye the moment I walked in.
Bright, cheerful color was everywhere—mugs with playful patterns that begged to be stacked on an open kitchen shelf. A collection like that would make a kitchen feel instantly happier, and some of the shapes and patterns could easily inspire wall stenciling or painted accents.
Lighting was another major highlight. There were fixtures that looked more like art than lamps, and they felt luxurious—even if I had no idea of the price. The important part isn’t the tag though; it’s the inspiration those forms and finishes provide for your own space.
If you haven’t read Jonathan Adler’s books, I recommend them. He’s funny, candid, and full of practical style tips. A quote from his latest title stuck with me and even got an Instagram shout-out when I first read it—his voice really captures the joy of living with design that makes you smile.
Small furniture pieces were surprisingly inviting. Two yellow-and-white ottomans practically begged to be petted. I couldn’t resist giving them a quick cuddle. A needlepoint pillow had John laughing; pillows with personality are the underrated gems of a room. I could see an entire kid’s room centered around a single map-themed needlepoint pillow—soft blue walls, pops of bright blue, green and orange accents, maybe a glossy yellow rocker. It’s a playful, cohesive palette that feels both designed and child-friendly.
There were accent chairs that felt like cousins to our office chairs—so cheerful that you just wanted to park yourself and stay. A few years back, when our style leaned neutral, I would have said Jonathan Adler wasn’t my thing. After having a child and moving to our current home, I’m much more open to bold, joyful color. Walking his store made me realize how much my taste has shifted toward happy, vibrant design.
One of my favorite finds was a set of small faux-zebra dishes in bright colors—I still regret not buying the green one for my nightstand. They’re perfect for holding jewelry or a watch, and they’d add a fun, quirky touch to a dresser.
There was a needlepoint cushion layered with pillows that had bright colored piping—simple details like that can be DIY projects for anyone comfortable with a sewing machine. A white plate accented with gold sparked ideas too: imagine thrifted plates updated with metallic paint or gold leaf to give them a fresh, luxe twist.
Several ottomans and poufs offered inspiration for a child’s room, even if they were above our budget. The layering of white, pink, and bold red in ikat-like patterns showed how pattern and color can be mixed without feeling chaotic. Small decor pieces also offered clever DIY potential: a teal-and-gold painted wooden egg reminded me that craft-store eggs sprayed in metallics and wrapped with rubber bands can produce the same striped effect.’
A lacquered tray set atop an X-shaped base functioned as a chic side table—another reminder that thrifted bases with new tops can be easy weekend projects. A corner display featured oversized bird art and feathered wall hangings that felt simultaneously retro and modern. Large bird prints would make a dramatic focal point in a living room or entryway.
In the kids’ section, playful wallpaper and animal needlepoint pillows made me nostalgic and excited. Wallpaper panels inside a reading nook or closet can add instant personality without overwhelming a whole room.
Overall, the visit reminded me that inspiration is everywhere: in big-ticket pieces and tiny accents alike. Sometimes stepping into a store filled with thoughtfully designed objects is the easiest way to spark fresh ideas for your own home—whether it leads to a major makeover or a few small DIY projects. What stores have you been ogling lately, and what projects did they inspire?
PS: I also recorded an interview with Jonathan Adler that I mentioned during the visit. It’s a fun conversation if you want to hear more about his approach to design and happiness.