Photos by Janelle Olson
Whether you’re concepting a client presentation, moodboarding your next design project, or just looking to shake the visual cobwebs loose, these seven flat lays—curated from our Midwest Design archives—offer inspiration through color, texture, and composition. Use them as a spark, a starting point, or save and share with your team.
Nature’s Neutral
From mossy velvet to earthy ceramics, this palette reimagines green as a grounding neutral. The tactile mix of materials—linen, matte glaze, and soft weave—invites a slow, intentional pace. It’s a reminder that sustainability can be a visual story, not just a spec line.
Suggested Spaces: Wellness rooms, mudrooms, eco-forward kitchens, garden-view dining nooks
Coastal Cool, Recast
Add pizzazz with splashy shades and modern takes on traditional textures. After all, this isn’t your average navy-and-white beach theme. Soft sky tones, sandy neutrals, and unexpected pops of green steer the aesthetic into more elevated waters. Think coastal influence with a Midwestern punch—equal parts relaxed and refined.
Suggested Spaces: Lake homes, sunrooms, kids’ bathrooms, modern cabins, transitional family rooms
Cosmic Contrast
Inspired by the Lunar New Year, these celestial patterns, galaxy prints, and cosmically fun finds celebrate a fresh start in all sorts of spaces. A moody indigo base sets the stage for this celestial-inspired composition, punctuated by golden flourishes and radiant white textures. It feels like the inside of a jewel box—rich, romantic, and slightly mystical. A perfect palette for interiors that dare to daydream.
Suggested Spaces: Powder rooms, boutique bedrooms, cocktail lounges, home libraries
Saturated Statements
Envelop homes in elegance with rich ruby, amethyst, and emerald shades paired with refined metallic accents, all of which dominate this unapologetically bold flat lay. Each textile feels like it has a past life—patterned, storied, and sumptuous. It’s maximalism at its most thoughtful.
Suggested Spaces: Formal dining rooms, moody dens, boutique hotel lobbies, statement staircases
A New Take on Winter Whites
Warm up to cooler temps with these cozy materials, sure to elevate the character, comfort, and contentment inside the home. Fur throws, soft boucle, and hand-formed ceramics bring warmth to an otherwise icy palette, while the variation in texture keeps it from feeling sterile. Perfect inspiration for serene, layered spaces.
Suggested Spaces: Primary bedrooms, minimalist kitchens, spa-like bathrooms, serene studio spaces
Granny Gone Glam
Usher chic springtime style into your designs with delicate floral patterns, pleated lampshades, and subtle nods to the 1980s. Muted pastels and saturated marigolds strike a balance between nostalgic and now. It’s proof that “granny” can still turn heads, especially when styled with intention.
Suggested Spaces: Guest bedrooms, reading corners, breakfast nooks, boutique Airbnbs
A Softer Side of Red
Inspired by Valentine’s Day, this romantic palette sidesteps cliché with unexpected texture and tone. Blush meets burgundy, and matte meets gloss, creating contrast and cohesion. Ideal for designs that lean into emotion without going saccharine.
Suggested Spaces: Entryways, powder baths, romantic restaurants, artist studios, Valentine’s activations
