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Nov 18, 2023

Put 'Barbiecore' on Pause: 5 Ken

It’s undeniable: Most of the trending decor looks of late err on the side of the feminine (OK, “Barbiecore” overload). But there’s something to be said for styling a section of your home, specifically

It’s undeniable: Most of the trending decor looks of late err on the side of the feminine (OK, “Barbiecore” overload). But there’s something to be said for styling a section of your home, specifically the living room, in more rugged tones. (We see you, Mr. Astronaut Ken!)

Of course, we love that surfer bum Ken can rock rosy hues. But after a tidal wave of all things Barbie as of late, we’re longing for some rustic woodworking, neutral-colored pieces with unique line work and materials, and lots of not-pink accent colors.

In other words, we’re pining for a cabin that serves as a high-fashion bachelor pad where function is king. We got with a few of our favorite designers to hear their thoughts on these brawny living room looks from Instagram. Here’s what they had to say—plus all the details you need to steal the look for your space.

One of our favorite ways to deck out a living space in laddish decor? By taking something simple like a gaming chair and adding a luxe spin to it—like we see in this leather lounger look from @lifetime_interior_design.

“This is the ultimate modern decor and something that certainly makes a statement,” says Megan Nelson of @nestwiththenelsons. “The leather lounger totally sets the stage and complements the overall look and vibe of the room.”

Get the look: Make a statement and find your new fave lounger with this microfiber leather beanbag chair.

Another distinctly strong take on decor that we love? Rustic wood paneling, like the one in this reading nook from @carriedelanyinteriors.

“The wood paneling showcases a modern cabin feel with all the accents needed to feel cozy,” says designer Madison Popper, of Chill Casa. “It has warm, soothing colors and inviting softness.”

Get the look: Find your inner lumberjack by following this DIY guide for creating a rustic wood wall.

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Whether you’re decorating for a laid-back refuge or a place to entertain, we love pieces that do double duty as storage and high-end design—like this curio cabinet from @living_delcidly.

“This is the perfect blend of style while striking a cozy and chic look,” says Nelson. “The curio cabinet really embraces a subtly sophisticated look that calls for a great book and a glass of wine.”

Get the look: Create an organized, cozy aesthetic with this Mason curio cabinet.

Curved furniture is having a moment, but we love when it takes on a plain-Jane (or Jack) timelessness like this curved wood coffee table from @odysseygallery.

“This curved wood table has an organic shape that softens the edges in this space while also showcasing a unique taste in furniture,” says Popper. “The light wood color brings some neutrality and also a feeling that’s clean but functional.”

Get the look: Keep things surprising yet functional and sophisticated with this Augie oak wood coffee table.

Whether you’re short on space or funds—this rustic DIY desk from @cozone_layer seems like the perfect addition to any grounded living room.

“This wall-mounted work corner is the man cave of the office,” says Popper. “Although it feels very industrious and DIY, the overall airiness of the room, as well as the accents and neutral colors, make the desk feel more like a workspace than a designated office.”

Get the look: Add the perfect DIY work corner by following this tutorial for a minimalist corner desk.

Larissa Runkle is a writer and editor living in the San Juan mountains of Colorado. Her work focuses on unique real estate and lifestyle trends.