Sometimes the only way to achieve the look you want is to do it yourself. That’s the motto, at least, for scores of DIYers who modify their homes again and again for the sake of personalization. They scour TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube for the newest DIY trends and projects making the rounds and—whether they’re renovation experts or novices—likely give it a whirl.
As Architectural Digest reports, interior designers, contractors, and other home experts have a front-row seat to the kinds of requests homeowners are making these days, as well as what projects are taking off on and offline (for better or worse). For example, in 2024 they pointed to bold tile work as a bathroom trend—and shower tiles indeed had a moment. Plus, they know which dated and cringey project ideas to ditch too.
One trend the experts say is worth the time and investment is putting in some Accent Lighting. However, they warn that adding more accent lighting to a room can get tricky, depending on your approach. “Even the boldest DIYers have been stymied by electrical work, particularly relocating or adding wiring for new fixtures,” says Madelaine Mayer, founder and design principal at AD:ROIT Architecture and Interior Design. That’s where cordless rechargeable lights come in. “These fantastic fixtures can be installed in a matter of minutes, adding accent lighting wherever needed,” she notes.
Mayer is partial to the dimmable wall sconces and picture lights from Pooky, though stick-on wall lights from Poplight and table lamps from Mantar Lamps are also popular. “As cordless lighting fixtures continue to flood the market, the trend toward layered lighting is gaining momentum,” add Mallory Robins and Elizabeth Bennett, founders of Kansas City–based interior design firm Kobel + Co. “The layered approach is all about creating a dynamic, ambient atmosphere—where each light source contributes to the overall mood and style of a room.”
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