Our guest this week is DABITO, known for his vibrant use of color, thoughtful approach to space, and signature eclectic maximalist design style. He has captured the hearts of many on social media through his blog, OLD BRAND NEW, where he shares decorating advice on infusing spaces with meaning through bold hues and refreshing decor.
We chatted with Dabito about his maximalist style and how to bring bold design choices into a home. We’re also excited to share our conversation about his first book, Old Brand New, and how to bring in wisdom from his design journey to your own home. Finally, DABITO gives unique insight on how color can help tell your story and encourage you to experiment with different styles in your home.
Order your physical copy of “Old Brand New” now at oldbrandnew.com
What You’ll Hear This Episode:
- Dabito’s journey into interior design, and how growing up in a multigenerational household had an impact on his creativity.
- Dabito talks about finding a safe space for self-expression while living with his siblings.
- His love of playing with warm and cool tones.
- Using paint as a powerful tool to enhance spaces.
- Tips for creating a grounded space.
- Fun DIY kitchen projects.
- Incorporating plants to freshen up spaces that even non-green thumbers will find do-able.
- The meaning and inspiration behind Dabito’s blog name and book “Old Brand New”.
- Using color as a starting point for design projects, and his favorite color combos right now.
- Balancing color, pattern, and scale for a cohesive maximalist look.
- Vintage shopping tips and negotiation strategies.
- Dabito’s experiences decorating for family members.
Decorating Dilemma:
Hi Ladies and guest, and hello from Alabama!
I love listening to your podcast and have learned so much over the years. Thank you for
including such a great variety of guests and design topics.
My question is if there is a way to make a matching, dark-stained wood bedroom set work in
my master bedroom to create a cozy, modern/traditional European-inspired feel.
About a year ago, my husband and I were fortunate enough to find a solid-wood Scottish
Highlands inspired bedroom set (king bed with head and foot board, pair of nightstands, and
oversized dresser) for a steal on Facebook marketplace. We truly love the style of the set; it’s
heirloom quality and I think the Scottish highlands style and details has potential to lean into a
European aesthetic. I’ve really struggled though on how to incorporate this into a cohesive
style given the dark stain and matching nature of the set. Previously, our bedroom furniture
was a light linen upholstered headboard, grasscloth nightstands, and an antique dresser, and
this set couldn’t feel more opposite.
After thinking about this room for the past year, I’m solidly in a rut and feeling very uninspired
about what direction to head next. I’m open to any ideas on what to do with the walls,
window treatments, bedding colors/ideas, rugs, and/or nightstand styling.
At this point, I’d appreciate anything to help get my creative juices flowing! Pictures of the space are attached.
Thank you again for your help; I’m very excited to hear your ideas and upcoming podcast
episodes!
– Leigh Anne
Thank you for writing in Leigh-Anne,
We love that you’re looking to breathe new life into your bedroom while working with your existing furniture!
To create a cohesive traditional yet modern look with your dark wood bedroom set, we suggest painting the room a rich color like blue – it’ll complement those wood tones beautifully. Add some pizzazz by installing trim work and panel molding on the lower half of the walls. A large area rug will help ground the space and break up all that lovely dark wood. How about placing a linen-upholstered or skirted bench at the foot of the bed? It’ll serve as a focal point and balance out the visual weight of your furniture.
To draw the eye upward (and add a bit of drama!)Dabito suggests painting the ceiling and molding in a contrasting color. Ditch the ceiling fan for something more modern – sconces, pendants, or a flush-mount chandelier would look fabulous. Since your nightstands are on the larger side, go bold with some statement lamps sporting big shades, and toss in a floor lamp for good measure. These changes will help you create a balanced, stylish space that shows off your existing furniture while adding some fresh, modern flair.
Happy decorating,
– How to Decorate
Also Mentioned in This Episode
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Happy Decorating!
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