5 Colorful Built-in Ideas for Your Home

Built-Ins That Wow

Who says built-ins have to blend into the background? At Lisa Gilmore Design, we believe that built-ins are the perfect opportunity to add personality, function, and a splash of color to your home. Whether it’s a bold bookcase, a vibrant pantry, or a statement entertainment center, colorful built-ins are a great way to make a room feel uniquely yours.

Lisa Gilmore Design’s Vibrant, Custom Built-ins

Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of creating stunning custom built-ins for our clients. From teal office bookcases that are as timeless as they are dramatic, to a raspberry entertainment center that turns movie-watching into art, our projects are all about blending style with purpose. In this post, we’ll highlight five of our favorite Lisa Gilmore Design projects that feature custom built-ins, and share tips for adding your own pop of color to any space. Let’s dive in!

BOLD TEAL OFFICE BOOKCASE - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Bold Teal Office Bookcases

When our client moved into her St. Petersburg home, she wanted to embrace a traditional yet daring style. Enter the show-stopping teal office bookcases! These custom built-ins pair perfectly with bold emerald green chairs, creating a workspace that feels both traditional and refreshingly modern. It’s a spot that says, "Let’s get to work... but in style!"

Jewel-Toned Built-In Desk

How do you turn a craftsman den into a jewel box of personality? You design a built-in desk in a rich emerald green, of course! For this sunny study in St. Petersburg, we paired bold color with natural light to create a space where creativity and productivity could shine. The result? A custom desk that feels like a hidden gem.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

BUILT-IN ENTERTAINMENT CENTER - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Raspberry Entertainment Center

Why settle for boring beige when you can go raspberry? For this downtown St. Petersburg condo, we designed a custom entertainment center that became the heart of the family’s den. Painted in a dazzling shade of raspberry pink, it’s perfect for cozy movie nights and makes a statement that says, “Why blend in when you can stand out?”

Coastal-Chic Built-In Entertainment Center

Who says coastal vibes have to mean seashells and beige walls? For a St. Petersburg vacation condo, we crafted an elegant built-in entertainment center in dreamy shades of blue. It whispers sophistication while nodding to the serene coastal palette, proving that relaxing and refined can live in perfect harmony.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

Teal Built-In Bookcases for a Teen’s Room

Designing for a teen means finding the balance between fun and functional. For this creative teen, we designed vibrant teal built-in bookcases to house her collection of records, trophies, and crafts. It’s the perfect blend of personality and practicality, creating a space she’ll treasure for years to come.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

FAQs: All About Custom Built-ins

1. What are built-ins?

Built-ins are custom furniture pieces—like shelves, cabinets, desks, or even window seats—integrated directly into your home’s structure. They’re tailored to fit your space like a glove and provide both style and function.

2. Are built-ins a good idea?

Yes! Built-ins are perfect for maximizing storage, adding a touch of luxury, and making awkward spaces work harder. They’re as stylish as they are practical, blending seamlessly into your home’s design.

3. Is built-in furniture expensive?

Built-ins can be pricier than store-bought furniture due to their custom nature, but they’re an investment in both your home’s value and your day-to-day convenience. The cost depends on materials and complexity, but their long-term benefits make them worth every penny.

4. How can I add color to my home?

Adding color to your home is all about layering it in ways that feel natural and vibrant. Start small with accessories like throw pillows, rugs, or artwork, or go bold with an accent wall or colorful wallpaper. Custom built-ins in vibrant hues, like green or navy, can make a stunning statement, while colorful furniture, playful textiles, and lush plants bring energy to any room. To keep things balanced, pair bright accents with neutral bases, and don’t be afraid to mix colors that make you happy—it’s your space, after all!

When it comes to built-ins, the possibilities are endless. They’re not just storage solutions—they’re opportunities to add color, character, and creativity to your home. From teal bookcases to raspberry entertainment centers, our custom designs bring personality to every project.

Inspired to add colorful built-ins to your home? Let’s make it happen! Fill out our design inquiry form and we’ll contact you for more details. To get more tips, see our projects, and find ideas for adding liveable glamour to your home, follow me on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter. 

Lisa Gilmore Design is a full-service interior design firm based in Tampa Bay, Florida that offers luxury design services to busy professionals. We create one-of-a-kind spaces with artisan-crafted pieces, antique elements, and custom designs. Lisa Gilmore Design serves homeowners in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, South Tampa, and Hyde Park.

Mid-Century Modern Interior Design Renovation: From Retro to Refined

Mid-Century Modern Interior Design Kitchen Makeover

Designing older homes can be a balancing act. How do you honor the character and history of the space while giving it a modern, functional refresh? That was exactly the challenge we tackled with this mid-century modern home interior design in St. Petersburg, Florida. The Lisa Gilmore Design team set out to update the waterfront home’s mid-century charm while giving it a fresh, livable twist.

Let’s dive into the transformation of this kitchen—respecting its original mid-century roots—and see how we brought it back to life.

Before: Outdated Mid-Century Modern Interior Design

Mid-century modern kitchens are all about clean lines, flat-panel cabinets, natural wood tones, and those iconic geometric tiles. But today’s trends? Think colorful cabinets, gold hardware, and bold statement backsplashes. Blending these two styles? Now that’s a design challenge worth tackling!

KITCHEN BEFORE

Dated Kitchen with Heavy Wood Tones

The kitchen was roomy with plenty of storage and a big pantry, but all that medium-toned wood cabinetry made the space feel darker than it should have.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

Mid-Century Modern Kitchen with Geometric Tile

Geometric tile is a staple in mid-century modern kitchens, but when this particular tile was paired with wood cabinetry, it created a darker, more neutral vibe.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

Mid-Century Modern Interior Design Open Floorplan

The open floor plan and large archway between the dining room and kitchen gave the home, designed by the late, esteemed architect William Harvard, a bright, airy vibe. However, the minimalist dining room makes the kitchen feel darker and smaller by contrast.

After: A Kitchen Worthy of Its Waterfront Views

MID-CENTURY MODERN KITCHEN AFTER - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Mid-Century Modern Kitchen Masterpiece

What a transformation! We stripped the kitchen down to the studs and reimagined it from the ground up. Every detail was carefully planned, from the vibrant tile to the specialty hardware. And the pièce de résistance? A hidden door feature wall that cleverly leads to the mudroom. 

We brought this kitchen into the 21st century without losing its mid-century soul.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

The Star of the Show: Geometric Tile

The first thing you’ll notice is the blue geometric tile floor. It’s bold but not overpowering, perfectly complementing the room’s earthy tones. This single design choice not only ties the space together but also adds that signature mid-century pop of personality.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

MID-CENTURY MODERN KITCHEN - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Mid-Century Modern Interior Design Transformation

We partnered with T2theS to create custom cabinetry in oak and rosewood, bringing warmth and texture into the space. The backsplash’s light pattern keeps the overall look fresh and airy. The zinc island, accented with brass details, adds a modern touch while still feeling cohesive with the retro vibes.

To bring the kitchen and living room together, we added a fun little cut-through—perfect for chatting with guests while cooking. The soffits? Gone! We wanted the space to breathe. And when it came to lighting, we kept it simple. With lower ceilings, adding decorative fixtures would’ve crowded the view, and honestly, who wants anything stealing the show from those gorgeous surroundings?

Now, the homeowners can easily entertain in both spaces while soaking in views of the waterfront.

“The whole house feels cohesive, yet every space feels different,” said the homeowners. “Depending on your mood, you can go to a different area, and it enhances how you feel. We’re still discovering little nooks and crannies that surprise and delight us.”

FAQs: The Scoop on Mid-Century Modern Interior Design

1. What is mid-century modern interior design style?

Mid-century modern design is one of those timeless styles that never goes out of fashion. Born in the 1940s to 1960s, it’s all about clean lines, functional pieces, and a "less is more" vibe. It blends indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly, using natural materials like wood and leather, plus a mix of organic shapes and geometric patterns. Picture sleek furniture, muted tones with bold pops of color, and a perfect balance of retro charm and modern flair.

2. How do I make my house look mid-century modern?

To give your home a mid-century modern vibe (like this light and airy St. Petersburg home), start with these steps:

• Invest in Iconic Furniture: Go for clean lines, tapered legs, and organic shapes. Think Eames chairs or a sleek wooden credenza—classic and timeless.

• Start with a Neutral Base, Then Add Pops of Color: Whites, beiges, and greys create a solid foundation, while accents in mustard yellow, teal, or burnt orange bring the space to life.

• Embrace Natural Materials: Wood, leather, and metal are your go-to choices for that grounded, mid-century look.

• Add Retro Touches: Starburst clocks, abstract art, or vintage lighting can instantly transport your space back in time.

• Keep It Simple: Uncluttered spaces are key. Let those gorgeous design elements do all the talking!

It’s all about mixing classic charm with a fresh, stylish twist.

3. What are the 5 key elements of mid-century modern decor?

Mid-century modern style is all about clean lines and organic shapes—think smooth, flowing furniture with no extra fuss. Natural materials like wood, leather, stone, and metal take center stage, often left in their raw or lightly treated form to show off their beauty. While the base colors tend to be neutral—whites, beiges, and greys—you'll often see vibrant pops of turquoise, orange, or avocado green for a playful twist. The furniture is as practical as it is stylish, with many pieces serving more than one purpose. And don’t forget those retro-inspired accessories! Retro rugs, sleek furniture, and colorful ceramics bring a nostalgic vibe while keeping the space feeling fresh and contemporary.

If this kitchen transformation has you dreaming of your own mid-century modern interior design makeover, we’re here to help! Whether you’re refreshing one room or reimagining your whole home, Lisa Gilmore Design can bring your vision to life.

To learn more about our services, fill out our design inquiry form. And for more design tips, project reveals, and inspiration for adding liveable glamour to your home, follow us on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter.

Based in Tampa Bay, Florida, Lisa Gilmore Design is a full-service interior design firm that offers luxury design services for busy professionals. We have been named an Architectural Digest Leading Southwest Florida Designer and a Top 25 Design Florida Firm by Design + Decor. Lisa Gilmore Design has also been featured in top design publications such as Florida Design, Aspire Home and Rue Magazine. We serve homeowners in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, South Tampa, Hyde Park, and worldwide.

Clearwater Florida Condo featured in The Wall Street Journal

Lisa Gilmore Design Transforms Clearwater, Florida Condo

Have you heard? Lisa Gilmore Design’s latest Clearwater, Florida condo makeover was featured in The Wall Street Journal, and we’re absolutely over the moon!  We’re bursting to share this dreamy project with you—a perfect blend of endless potential, a delightful client, and a design team that was totally in sync (if we do say so ourselves).

Clearwater Florida Condo Becomes a Parisian Retreat

Meet Christy, an emergency medicine physician in St. Petersburg who found us on Instagram. Christy had a clear vision of her new home and knew exactly what she wanted.

“Having an impeccably designed home is something I’ve always dreamed of, and when I downsized to a condo, I knew it was the perfect time. I had several friends who recommended their cousins or friends to me, but that wasn’t what I wanted. I wanted an Architectural Digest home. I wanted a creative visionary and someone who would take charge of the entire project.”

It was love at first meeting when Christy met the Lisa Gilmore Design team, and we were thrilled to give her two-bedroom, two-bath condo in downtown Clearwater, Florida, a full renovation.

A Living, Breathing Space

Christy’s take on home is as unique as she is.

“I told Lisa that I wanted a home that represented me and who I am. Home is a vulnerable space, and I wanted to share my vulnerability more and more with guests as they move deeper into the home. So the entry would be an introduction to me, the common areas a deeper view, and then my private areas would be my truest self.”

So, how do you create a space that reveals the layers of a person’s soul, room by room? Only Lisa could dream up such a magical transformation.

PARISIAN BOUTIQUE HOTEL LOUNGE MOODBOARD

ENTRYWAY BEFORE

Clearwater, Florida Condo Open and Airy Entryway

Step into Christy’s world, starting with the entryway. Imagine being greeted by handcrafted art that hints at what’s to come. We knocked down some walls to create a welcoming lounge area and commissioned stunning sculptural columns by artist Joel Escalona. These columns are pure showstoppers but don’t miss the console table faux-painted to look like onyx marble and the dazzling sunburst light fixture. It’s an entrance that whispers, “Come on in, there’s so much more to see!”

photo: Entryway After

ENTRYWAY AFTER - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

LOUNGE BEFORE

Parisian Boutique Hotel-Inspired Lounge

We affectionately call this room the Boutique Lounge because it feels like a luxurious, cozy retreat. With vintage zebra chairs adding a splash of pattern and a bit of lived-in antiques for personality, this space is all about comfort and style. 

“I wanted people to notice right away that this space was different, whether they were knocking on my door to borrow sugar or dropping off a package. And when I walked in, I wanted the space to feel like my soul was walking into my body,” said Christy.

photo: Lounge After

LOUNGE AFTER - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

FAQs

1. Is it expensive to live in Clearwater, Florida?

Living in Clearwater, Florida, can be a bit pricey, especially if you're drawn to the beachside lifestyle. Housing costs can be higher near the coast, but the city offers a range of options that cater to different budgets. Overall, the cost of living is moderate compared to other popular Florida destinations, making it accessible for many.

2. Is Clearwater, Florida a nice place to live?

Absolutely! Clearwater is known for its stunning beaches, warm weather, and vibrant community. With a lively downtown area, excellent schools, and plenty of outdoor activities, it's a great place for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. The relaxed, coastal vibe makes it a wonderful place to call home.

3. Is Clearwater, Florida a good place to retire?

Definitely! Clearwater is a fantastic place to retire, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and activity. With its beautiful beaches, mild winters, and a variety of amenities catering to retirees, it's a popular choice for those looking to enjoy their golden years. The city has a strong sense of community and plenty of healthcare facilities, making it an ideal retirement destination.

This Clearwater, Florida condo with Parisian flair is a shining example of how to make a neutral palette anything but boring. Don’t miss next month’s post, where we’ll dive into the common areas of this beautiful home. And if you’re into neutrals, check out this historic home in the Old Northeast neighborhood of St. Petersburg that has a timeless monochromatic vibe.

To get more tips, see our projects, and find ideas for adding liveable glamour to your home, follow me on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter.

Lisa Gilmore Design is a Tampa Bay-based interior design firm that provides luxury design services to busy professionals. We have been named an Architectural Digest Leading Southwest Florida Designer and a Top 25 Design Florida Firm by Design + Decor. Lisa Gilmore Design has been featured in The Wall Street Journal and top design publications such as Florida Design, Aspire Home, and Rue Magazine. We serve homeowners in Tampa, St. Petersburg, South Tampa, Clearwater, Hyde Park, and worldwide.

6 Accessory Dwelling Unit Design Ideas

Accessory Dwelling Unit Design: Bringing Glamour to a Small Space

Tampa recently relaxed its accessory dwelling unit (ADU) guidelines—making it easier than ever to turn a little extra space into a cozy house or in-law suite. So, if you're ready to add a bit of liveable glamour to your backyard cottage or garage apartment, the Lisa Gilmore Design team has some fun, functional tips to help you maximize your accessory dwelling unit design.

Accessory Dwelling Unit Design for Tampa Homeowners

A stylish accessory dwelling unit design can be a game-changer. It’s all about making a small space feel luxurious, comfortable, and ready for anything—from out-of-town guests to full-time tenants. Here’s how to make your ADU feel like a little slice of home:

BUILT-IN WINDOW SEAT WITH STORAGE - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

1. Maximize Every Inch

Space is precious in an ADU, so let’s make it count! Think vertically: floating shelves, built-in storage, and tall closets are your best friends here. Multi-purpose furniture, like storage beds or foldable tables, can also be lifesavers. Lofted spaces are fantastic for adding a cozy sleeping nook—especially if you have tall ceilings. Planning out a flow that makes sense for daily living will help even the tiniest accessory dwelling unit feel spacious and welcoming.

2. Light and Bright Finishes for Openness

Small spaces benefit from light-colored finishes that bounce natural light around the room, making it feel airy and expansive. Think whites, soft greys, and creams for the main palette, with a splash of color on a kitchen backsplash or accent wall. Mirrors are a small-space magic trick: they reflect light, creating an illusion of space. If your space has limited windows, mirrors are an absolute must for your accessory dwelling unit design plans.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

OPEN CONCEPT LIVING - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

3. Open-Concept Living for an Inviting Accessory Dwelling Unit Design

Open-concept living is perfect for making the space feel bigger. Merging the kitchen, dining, and living areas creates a connected, cozy feel. For visual separation, use area rugs, mix up the lighting, or add interesting room divider screens. Think pendant lights in the kitchen, and softer ambient lighting in the living area to help “zone” the space without losing the open look.

4. Durable, Low-Maintenance Materials

Since ADUs often serve as guest rooms or rentals, choose materials that are as tough as they are beautiful. Vinyl plank flooring offers style and easy maintenance, while quartz countertops resist scratches and stains. With durable finishes, your ADU will look as good as new, even after plenty of use.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

5. Outdoor Space for Extra Room

Nothing makes an ADU feel bigger than a little outdoor space! A small patio, balcony, or deck can extend the living area and offer a fresh-air retreat. If you don’t have room for a deck, even a simple setup with chairs and potted plants can add charm and give guests their own outdoor escape.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

6. Personalize Like a Mini-Home

Your accessory dwelling unit design doesn’t need to be just a small version of your home—it’s a chance to add cozy, unique touches. Whether it’s mid-century modern or farmhouse chic, you can design it with its own personality. Small design elements like unique lighting, vibrant pillows, or stylish wall art make a big impact without overwhelming the space.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

FAQs: Everything You Want to Know About Accessory Dwelling Unit Design

1. What is the best flooring for an ADU?

For durability and easy maintenance, vinyl plank and laminate flooring are solid choices. Both resist water and are easy to clean, while engineered hardwood can add a warmer, elevated look. In warmer climates, like Tampa, tile is also a great, cool option for high-traffic accessory dwelling unit design.

2. What is the difference between an ADU and ALQ?

An ADU, or Accessory Dwelling Unit, is a separate living area on your property (often a backyard cottage). ALQ, or Additional Living Quarters, are typically part of the main home and used for guests or extended family.

3. What are the new requirements for an ADU in Tampa?

New updates now allow Tampa homeowners to live in either the primary home or the ADU. There’s also room for two unrelated occupants, and eligibility has expanded to new areas like Sulphur Springs, Temple Crest, Wellswood, and parts of Riverside Heights. 

For more small spaces with big design impact, take a look at this Sherlock Holmes-inspired back house and a sunny home designed for a military family!

Need your own glamorous accessory dwelling unit design? Our team is here to help! Fill out our design inquiry form to get started. You can also follow along on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter for more design inspiration.

Lisa Gilmore Design is a Tampa Bay, Florida full-service interior design firm that delivers luxury design services to busy professionals. We manage all the details of renovations and new home builds from concept to final reveal, serving clients in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, South Tampa, Hyde Park, and beyond.