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Nesting Instincts

February 27, 2026•1 min read

Nesting Instincts

interior design and fall, how your decor affects your mood during the seasons

Date: September 8, 2009Author: joanneriley 0 Comments

As the fall gets closer and closer, I’m feeling the pressure to soak up as much sun and summer weather before it’s gone. There is a necessity to be outside when the weather gets to be 65 and the sky is sunny with slight cloud coverage because as soon as the chill starts to set in there is a growing sense to come inside- to begin nesting.

However, when I realize that I’m going to be spending more time in doors I notice that the living room is a little bit dusty from lack of use and there aren’t any of the necessary provisions (ie: blankets, firewood, an extra lamp) that are needed for staying in doors for long periods of time. To switch gears into autumn means that I need to not only prepare my home for the climate changes but also the emotional changes. Because I’m going to be indoors longer, the attention to décor becomes much greater as every picture frame and candy dish is no longer something to glance at as I leave the house, but something that greets me day after day.

My home has the power to make me happy to be inside or depressed. The extra effort to make my house look attractive is just my way of settling down for the winter. Thus the end of summer never seems so depressing, because I know I will be gathering my “harvest” of home treatments to brighten up my house and make the time at home during the cold enjoyable.

Joanne Riley

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The Story Behind The Style

The Interior Edge (TIE), founded in 1990 by Joanne Riley, A.S.I.D., delivers luxury interiors that combine heart and precision. For over three decades, TIE has transformed homes and spaces into timeless expressions of beauty, balance, and comfort. Our promise: to take you from concept to completion with professionalism, creativity, and a touch of magic.

What sets us apart? “Love lives here,” as Joanne Riley puts it. That belief fuels everything we do. At TIE, design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating environments that nurture growth, provide security, and bring joy every single day.

Our process is thoughtful, collaborative, and detail-obsessed. From architecture, lighting, and space planning to the finishing touches of color, texture, and style, we design with intention. No detail is too small—whether it’s the placement of a window or the fresh flowers that welcome you home.

We stay ahead of the curve with ongoing education, partnerships with industry leaders, and cutting-edge technology that allows clients to visualize their dream space before it becomes reality.

Every project is unique, just like the people we serve. While our portfolio spans the globe, we frequently work in the Berkshires, New York City, Connecticut, and Greater Boston. Wherever the project, our mission is simple: to design interiors that exceed expectation, inspire joy, and feel like home.

FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when I hire you to design my home?

First, we talk about what you like and what you need. Then we make a plan to help your space look better and work better for your life. We show you ideas, help pick things like colors and furniture, and take care of the little details so you don’t have to worry.

Do I need to redesign my whole house, or can we do just one room?

You can start with just one room if you want! Many people begin with a room that needs the most help, like the living room or bedroom. Later, we can work on more areas when you’re ready. We make each space feel fresh and connected to the rest of your home.

How do you decide what styles and colors to use?

We learn about your taste, what colors make you happy, and how you want your home to feel. Then we create a design that fits you perfectly. You get to see pictures and ideas before anything is bought, so everything feels just right.

Can you work with what I already have in my home?

Yes! We love using your favorite pieces and making them shine. We can mix your old things with new ones to give your space a fresh look without starting from scratch.

How much does it cost to work with you?

We have different packages depending on what you need. Some people just want help picking colors or arranging furniture, while others want a full makeover. We’ll talk about your budget and help you get the most value out of every dollar.

How long does the design process take?

It depends on the project. A simple room update can take a few days or weeks, while a full-home design takes longer. Don’t worry—we’ll give you a clear timeline and keep you updated every step of the way.

Do I need to be involved in every decision?

Only if you want to be! We’re happy to guide you and handle the hard parts. You’ll get to see choices and give feedback, but we’ll take care of the heavy lifting so you can relax and enjoy the results.

What if I’m not sure I’ll like the final design?

That’s okay! We show you ideas, colors, and layouts before we start, so you can feel confident. If something doesn’t feel right, we’ll adjust it. Our goal is to make sure you’re 100% happy with your space.