Design Destinations That Stick: How Travel Inspires Global Interior Design

There’s a legend called the traveler’s curse.

It says that once you’ve experienced beauty in a faraway place, part of you will always long to return. I get it. I’ve stood on quiet streets in Lisbon, wandered flower-strewn alleys in London, and sipped espresso in a Paris café so perfect it felt like a movie set. And yes, sometimes I wish I could teleport back.

But what I’ve learned as a designer is that I don’t have to leave those places behind. When I travel, I collect more than memories. I bring home textures, color stories, moments of charm, and entire design philosophies. Even seeing how people dress fashionably but differently in new destinations is very inspiring. That inspiration ends up layered into my projects, helping clients create spaces that feel personal yet global and sophisticated.

Here are a few design destinations that have stuck with me, and how the spirit of global interior design manifests at TKS Design Group.

Global Design: Paris

It’s hard not to feel inspired here. The architecture, the food, the street style–it’s all part of a culture that values beauty and intentional living. That resonates with me as a designer.

WHAT I BROUGHT BACK:
A passion for quality. Everything in Paris feels like it was made to be enjoyed. I recently found a piece by a French artist (below, left) that I absolutely loved. It’s now hanging in a client’s home and feels like the perfect personal touch.

And can we talk about these chairs? Très chic. The silhouette and the modern mauve fabric are giving serious Parisian deco vibes. We also spotted a fun outdoor piece (below) with that same Parisian café feel, perfect for elevating any patio.

Global Design: Copenhagen

This city taught me how much I appreciate calm and simplicity. The scale is so human. You walk or bike everywhere, and it gives you the time and space to notice what’s around you—to really slow down and enjoy the gardens and green spaces. And when you’re ready for a treat? Just pop into any streetside cafe and enjoy a walkable city at its best.

WHAT I BROUGHT BACK:
Cozy, uncluttered living. The Airbnb we stayed in was warm and simple, but nothing felt missing. That kind of balance—comfort without excess—is something I try to recreate in my own work. Even a cozy attic bathroom we did reminded me of that iconic Dutch “hygge.”

We’ve been adding chunky, texture-rich throws like this one from Amity Home to invoke similar warmth.

Global Design: London

London has this incredible energy. It’s a cultural hub and melting pot like New York City, but with more breathing room. I love how it celebrates both tradition and trend.

WHAT I BROUGHT BACK:
A flair for florals. Liberty of London’s prints, the storefront flower displays, the bold wallpapers. They all stuck with me. We’re currently using this gorgeous Cowtan & Tout fabric (below, left) as the jumping-off point for a primary bathroom remodel.

And then there’s this chair from Rowe Furniture (above, right) that I spotted at High Point Market. That English-inspired floral fabric paired with the modern frame? Total boutique hotel moment.

Global Design: Lisbon

Lisbon caught me off guard in the best way. It’s close to the scenic Atlantic coast, yet full of layered history, steep hills, tiled facades, and seriously good shopping. The way the light moves through the streets, bouncing off pastel buildings and patterned stone, reminded me of the city’s effortlessly cool fashion scene.

WHAT I BROUGHT BACK:
Color and texture. The city’s tilework and pastel facades made a real impression. These Portuguese-inspired tiles from Renaissance Tile feel like a love letter to Lisbon.

Even if You’re Not a Traveler…

Not everyone has the time (or interest) to hop on a plane. But you can still create a home that feels like a collection of experiences. I love helping clients tell their story through the things they’ve gathered, like art, vintage finds, family heirlooms. You don’t need a passport to bring personality into a space.

If there’s one takeaway from my travels, it’s this: keep your eyes open to new ideas. There’s a whole world of thoughtful design beyond the North American norm, sometimes in the smallest details. Take outdoor living, for example.

In much of Europe, the outdoors are treated like a natural extension of the home. A few bistro chairs and a soft throw can turn even a small balcony into a place to sip a cappuccino or beer and watch the world go by.

At the end of the day, it’s less about where you are and more about how you live in your space. When your home reflects what you love—whether it’s Parisian charm, coastal calm, or London quirk—it becomes a getaway of its own.

Curious how global inspiration could shape your space? Let’s talk.