An interior designer shares 11 things she always makes sure she has in her home

Displaying a great art collection was a must for Liedtke when she designed her home space. 

“I love to collect art and buy pieces I love when I find them,” she told BI.

An art collection also offers the opportunity to simply swap pieces out and instantly change the vibe of the space.

Liedtke also considers gorgeous coffee-table books to be another home essential. 

“My favorite books to collect are art books,” she told BI. “I love scouring museum gift shops for new ones to add to my collection.”

Liedtke recommends searching for books, such as museum books, that are as interesting as they are beautiful.

Liedtke uses lighting as an opportunity to make a statement in her home.

From the varied shapes and textures available nowadays, lamps make for another easy way to add a sculptural piece to your space.

When styling her home and other projects, Liedtke loves to use chic ceramics to add interest to a space.

“I have amassed a collection of ceramics that vary in shape, texture, color, and size,” she told BI. “Some are mid-century, some come from abroad, and some I have designed with local ceramists.”

According to the designer, ceramics are also a wonderful way to introduce an interesting object in the vignette, or a small group of decorative objects.

She also has to have great kitchen accessories that are both functional and nice-looking. 

“I love to cook and spend time with my family in the kitchen,” Liedtke said. “For as often as I cook, I really value the aesthetics of the items and how they work in my home decor.”

Made with magazine clippings, handwritten notes, and memorabilia from favorite locations and vignettes, mood boards can be a great place to find inspiration.

“I work from my home and I have a large mood board in my office,” Liedtke said. “I find myself constantly adding inspiration to it.”

This story was originally published on November 6, 2022, and most recently updated on September 5, 2024.