I recently returned from a trip outside the country, and it got me thinking–about the gift of travel and just how much it can enhance our lives. For me, travel has always been a rich source of inspiration. There’s something about being in a new place—surrounded by unfamiliar colors, textures, and materials—that gives me a new sense of perspective and sparks fresh ideas.
As a designer, I find myself noticing the little things most people walk past without a glance: a faded tile pattern on a centuries-old floor that somehow feels modern again, the way the light moves through a space, or how nature pairs colors in ways we might never think to. I once saw a stretch of terracotta cliffs against a pale blue sea and thought, this would be a perfect living room palette—warm clay tones, soft creams, a dusty blue accent! Or deep green cypress trees set against stone—what a perfect inspiration for cabinetry or textiles!
South Africa, Egypt, and Patagonia are some of the most inspiring places I’ve visited so far. In South Africa, I was moved not only by the indigenous design—so much texture and warmth—but also by the awe of the animals. There’s nothing like seeing elephants or lions up close to remind you of scale, beauty, and the magic of the natural world.
In Egypt, I felt like I experienced design through the lens of history—ornate, symbolic, and grand. The repetition of patterns, the symmetry, the layering—it all felt foundational, and surprisingly timeless. And in Patagonia, the rugged landscapes and raw materials are what stayed with me. In this region, less is more. The architecture feels integrated into nature, with wood, stone, and glass letting the scenery take the lead.
I recently visited Amsterdam to see my son and was lucky enough to catch the tulip gardens in full bloom. The rows of saturated color—fuchsia, coral, saffron, and violet—were like the most joyful stripe pattern. And in Malta, the aged limestone buildings, punctuated with bright blue shutters and patinated doors, had the kind of palette that just sticks with you. The kind of weathered beauty that makes you want to design an entire room around a single faded green.
Travel has shaped how I design, how I see, and honestly, how I live. It keeps me curious and reminds me to slow down and really take things in. Even if you’re not a designer, inspiration is everywhere—you just have to notice it.
Wherever you go next, bring your own designer’s eye. The world has so much to show us.
Compact jewelry case. Keep your accessories organized with my favorite jewelry case EVER!
Link here.
Water bottle. Stay hydrated with a LARQ water bottle—it’s self-cleaning, water-purifying, and beautiful.
Link here.
Travel pillow. This Go Pillow from Ostrich Pillow is so chic!
Link here.
Cosmetic case. Keep your beauty essentials organized and TSA-ready with a transparent Truffle cosmetic case—it’s stylish AND transparent!
Link here.
Compression cubes. There is simply nothing better to help you fit in everything you need.
Link here.
Compression socks. Reduce swelling and improve your circulation on long flights–these are a game changer!
Link here.
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