Add a Little Whimsy: Simple Ways to Spark Joy in Your Space

Whimsy is having a major moment in design, but it is more than just a passing trend—it is a mindset that brings joy, playfulness, and a childlike sense of wonder into everyday life. In this episode of *Seated with Furniture Row*, Barb and Jessa unpack what whimsy actually means, why we are seeing it everywhere from high-end fashion to big-box retailers, and how to bring it into your home in ways that feel fun but still refined. They explore whimsical inspiration from nature, travel, fashion, and favorite brands like Anthropologie, then translate those ideas into accessible interior design moves—think unexpected color combos, playful ceramics, statement lighting, and even a betta fish named Muffins. You will learn how whimsy differs from eclectic or maximalist styles, how to scale it from “just a little” to “all in,” and how to use whimsical touches to make your home feel more joyful, personal, and alive. What You’ll Learn (with Timestamps) - 00:00 -- Welcome back to *Seated with Furniture Row* and why whimsy is having a major cultural moment right now - 02:20 -- Where whimsy is showing up: fashion, advertising, home décor, travel, and everything in between - 05:20 -- Why whimsy resonates today: a "more enjoy please" era, Pinterest predictions, and the return of childlike wonder - 11:30 -- Is whimsy a trend or a lifestyle? How it has always existed, and why it feels so relevant now - 14:00 -- Finding whimsy in nature and everyday rituals: birds, flowers, Trader Joe's candles, and simple greenery - 19:30 -- Brand inspiration: Anthropologie, Saks, and imaginative window displays using found objects and upcycled materials - 26:10 -- Defining whimsy in interior design: objects that spark joy, plus Barb's whimsical lion artwork story - 30:10 -- Whimsy vs. eclectic vs. maximalism: what overlaps, what differs, and how to mix styles thoughtfully - 33:10 -- A teen bedroom in Colorado Springs: faux-fur bed, squiggle mirror, mushroom bedding, and balancing whimsy with neutrals - 38:30 -- Modern whimsy in 2026: High Point Market finds including kites, painted key holders, soft pink leathers, and florals-in-teacups - 46:15 -- Whimsical animal motifs: playful tigers, dog portraits, cats, and charming critters in décor - 49:10 -- Granny chic, China teacups, and ceramics having a moment: tomato vases, garlic vessels, and food-inspired objects - 55:40 -- Muffins the fish and vintage whimsy: how small, personal design decisions become joyful living art - 1:02:00 -- Whimsy as a functional solution: sculptural felt art, sound-absorbing panels, and playful mirrors - 1:05:20 -- Statement lighting and whimsy in mainstream spaces: Tiffany-inspired lamps, disco blobs, and sculptural shapes - 1:12:00 -- How to scale whimsy from subtle accents to full-on statement rooms without overwhelming your space Quick Ideas to Add Whimsy at Home - Use unexpected color combinations—like periwinkle with deep burgundy or soft pastels with rich earth tones—to energize a room without changing every piece of furniture. - Turn teapots into vases, use vintage China teacups for small floral arrangements, or cluster candles in creative containers to give familiar items a new, playful purpose. - Look for vases and objects shaped like tomatoes, garlic, fish, or breakfast foods to add a lighthearted moment to shelves, consoles, and table settings. - Choose a single item—a faux-fur bed, a squiggle-edged mirror, a quirky animal print, or a fun pillow—that makes you grin every time you see it. <!--THE END--> - Incorporate heirlooms or vintage finds (like grandma’s novelty salt-and-pepper shakers) to bring story and personality into modern spaces. Featured Hosts - **Barb** Chandler – Interior Designer and Buyer, Furniture Row - **Jessa** Murphy – Marketing Director, Furniture Row Visit a Furniture Row showroom near you and let our team help you find playful pieces that still fit your style and lifestyle. - Explore the Furniture Row blog for more styling ideas, inspiration - Follow us on Instagram and Pinterest for even more whimsical design inspiration