Design Unscripted

Design Unscripted is your weekly dose of interior design inspiration, hosted by Manuella Moreira, where creativity meets practicality. From trend insights to personal design tips, the podcast helps listeners discover their style and bring it to life in a fun, approachable way.

Podcast
❤️‍🔥 How Taylor Swift Is Changing the Way We See Orange in Interior Design

What if I told you Taylor Swift is the reason orange is suddenly everywhere in interior design? In this episode of Design Unscripted, Manuella Moreira explores how Taylor’s new album The Life of a Showgirl is reshaping the way we see orange—not just in fashion and pop culture, but in our homes. From bold vinyl covers and tour visuals to the unforgettable orange door that marked a new era, Taylor’s influence is making orange the must-have color of 2025.

Discover why orange, once considered too bold or retro, is making a sophisticated comeback in interiors. Manuella breaks down how to use shades like burnt orange, terracotta, and amber in your home through accent details, statement pieces, and even architectural touches. You’ll learn how to add warmth, depth, and personality to your space while keeping it modern and livable.

Whether you’re a Taylor Swift fan, a design enthusiast, or someone looking to refresh your home with a bold new palette, this episode will inspire you to see color—and storytelling—differently.

Subscribe on YouTube for visuals, design tips, and more and follow us on Instagram for a peek behind the scenes!

Living Room Design Tips: Entertaining Guests vs. Everyday Comfort

Episode 12 – How to Design a Living Room That Works for Hosting and Lounging

Your living room isn’t just a room—it’s the heart of your home. It’s where you entertain friends, celebrate milestones, unwind after a long day, and recharge on quiet nights. But here’s the challenge: most living rooms are designed for one purpose or the other. They’re either beautiful showpieces for hosting or cozy spaces for lounging—rarely both.

In this episode of Design Unscripted, I’m breaking down how to create a living room that does it all. You’ll learn:

  • How to arrange seating for both conversation and comfort
  • Why surfaces (coffee tables, side tables, consoles) are essential for effortless hosting
  • The secret to layered lighting that sets the perfect mood
  • How to design a living room that feels cozy enough for relaxing yet elevated enough for entertaining
  • Common mistakes to avoid (like oversized sectionals that overwhelm your space)

If you’ve ever struggled to make your living room stylish, comfortable, and versatile at the same time, this episode is for you.

✨ For visuals and inspiration, don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel
(linked in the show notes).

How to Design an Entryway That Sets the Tone for Your Entire Home

The Art of the Entryway: First Impressions and Energy

They say first impressions matter—and in interior design, few spaces speak louder than the entryway.

In this episode, Manuella breaks down how to design an entryway that doesn’t just look beautiful—it feels intentional, elevated, and aligned with the energy of your home. Whether your space is grand or compact, you'll learn how to make the most of it with thoughtful design decisions that create impact the moment you walk through the door.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Why the entryway sets the tone for your entire home
  • Foundational elements: surfaces, lighting, mirrors, and function
  • How to layer in personal touches: art, scent, and natural elements
  • Common mistakes to avoid (and how to fix them)
  • Manuella’s favorite scent for the entryway (Aura)
  • Quick tips for keeping your entryway organized and clutter-free

Links & Resources Mentioned:

Watch & Subscribe on YouTube

Shop the Aura Candle – Manuella’s Signature Scent for the Entryway
 

Listen to Episode 3 – Secrets to an Organized Home with Isabelle Wood:

Stay Connected

If you enjoyed this episode, please:

  • Share it with someone who loves intentional design
  • Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify
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Thank you so much for tuning in to Design Unscripted.
Whether you’re listening or watching—I'm so glad you're here.

How to Design a Bedroom That Feels Calm, Cohesive, and Complete

There’s a difference between a bedroom that’s simply decorated and one that feels layered, intentional, and deeply personal.

In this episode of Design Unscripted, interior designer Manuella Moreira walks you through the 8 foundational design principles that bring a bedroom to life. From understanding scale and fine-tuning layout to choosing the right lighting, texture, and emotional tone—this episode is a full masterclass in designing a space that feels cohesive, grounded, and elevated.

You’ll learn:

  • How to avoid the most common bedroom design mistakes
  • Why scale and proportion are the unsung heroes of well-designed rooms
  • The role texture plays in creating warmth and depth
  • How to think about ceilings and wall treatments as part of the overall design
  • Why layered lighting makes a bigger difference than you think
  • The power of meaningful styling, emotional connection, and intentional detail

Whether you're working with a builder-basic space or simply refreshing your current bedroom, this episode will give you a roadmap for creating a space that reflects how you want to feel—rested, inspired, and fully at home.

Looking to bring that same sense of calm and clarity into your everyday environment?
 Explore Aura—my signature candle designed to evoke serenity through soft woods, mineral warmth, and quiet luxury.

For more design tips, visual walkthroughs, and behind-the-scenes content, subscribe to my YouTube Channel.

And for daily design inspiration, styling ideas, and project updates, follow me on Instagram.

☀️ How to Refresh Your Home for Summer: Light, Airy, Effortless Design

In this episode of Design Unscripted, award-winning interior designer Manuella Moreira shares how to refresh your home for summer with effortless elegance. Learn practical and elevated summer design tips—from lightening your materials and updating your color palette to incorporating natural textures, seasonal florals, and outdoor styling ideas.

Whether you're redesigning a full space or making thoughtful updates, you'll discover how to create a home that feels light, airy, and aligned with the slower rhythm of summer. Manuella walks through everything from swapping rugs and drapery to curating your entryway, styling outdoor spaces, and choosing scents that set the mood.

You’ll learn:

  • The best materials to use for summer interiors
  • How to bring the outdoors in with flowers, herbs, and fresh textures
  • Easy styling ideas for coffee tables, bar trays, and entryways
  • Tips for designing outdoor spaces that feel intentional and inviting
  • How to use color and negative space to create calm and ease

If you're craving a seasonal shift in your home that feels as good as it looks, this episode is for you.

🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube and subscribe to the channel for more interior design inspiration, styling tips, and behind-the-scenes insights from Manuella Moreira.

📲 Follow Manuella on Instagram @manuellamoreirainteriors for daily design ideas, project reveals, and exclusive peeks into her creative process.

Your summer home transformation starts here.

10 Interior Design Tricks That Instantly Elevate Your Home

🎙️ 10 Interior Design Tricks That Instantly Elevate Your Home

Some spaces just feel elevated the moment you walk in—and it’s often thanks to the details you don’t even realize are working. In this episode of Design Unscripted, I’m sharing 10 interior design tricks that can instantly transform your home. From layered lighting to statement hardware, subtle scent to tailored drapery—these timeless design moves will help your space feel more intentional, refined, and uniquely you.

Whether you're restyling a room or starting from scratch, these expert-approved tips will guide you in creating a space that doesn’t just look good—it feels personal, polished, and complete.

Mentioned in this episode
Aura – Signature Candle
Alchemy – Signature Candle

🕯️ Aura is soft, warm, and quietly comforting.
🖤 Alchemy is deeper, layered, and a bit unexpected.
Both are designed to live gently in your space—adding depth without ever overwhelming the room.

Enjoying the show?
Subscribe to the channel for more interior design tips, styling secrets, and creative inspiration every week.
👍 Like, 💬 comment, and 📩 share this video with someone who loves design!

🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel for more design tips and visuals!

How to Choose the Right Sofa (And Avoid Costly Mistakes)

Thinking about buying a new sofa? Don’t do it until you hear this. In this episode of Design Unscripted, award-winning interior designer Manuella Moreira breaks down exactly what to look for before investing in your next sofa—so you don’t waste thousands on the wrong one. From frame construction and spring systems to fabric durability, seat depth, cushion fill, and style, we cover it all.

You’ll learn:

  • The 3 non-negotiables of sofa quality
  • How seat height and depth affect comfort
  • Sectional vs. sofa: which is right for your space
  • The truth about fabric ratings and cleaning codes
  • How to make sure your sofa actually fits—visually and physically

Whether you’re furnishing your first home or upgrading a space that no longer works for you, this episode is your ultimate sofa buying guide.

🎧 Subscribe to Design Unscripted for more expert tips on designing a home that feels as good as it looks.

📺 And don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for visual guides, product demos, and behind-the-scenes design tips.

📸 Follow us on Instagram @manuellamoreirainteriors for daily design inspiration, project sneak peeks, and more.

How to Design Your Home for Every Hour of the Day—From Slow Mornings to Restful Nights

Your home should do more than look beautiful—it should move with you. In this episode of Design Unscripted, Manuella Moreira explores rhythm-based design—a powerful approach to creating spaces that support the natural flow of your day.

From slow, intentional mornings to focused afternoons and restful evenings, Manuella shares practical, sensory-driven design tips to help you feel more grounded, calm, and energized—right where you are.

You’ll learn:

  • How to use lighting, texture, and layout to match your energy throughout the day
  • Smart zoning and storage tips to reduce midday overwhelm
  • Simple design rituals that shift your space—and your mindset

Whether you're designing from scratch or refining what you have, this episode will help you create a home that supports how you actually live—hour by hour.

🎧 Subscribe to the podcast and our YouTube channel for visuals and more behind-the-scenes design insights.

📲 Follow along on Instagram @manuellamoreirainteriors for daily tips, behind-the-scenes, and a deeper look into the design process.
💬 Loved this episode? Leave us a quick review and share it with a friend.

The Psychology of Color in Interior Design: How to Choose the Right Palette for Your Home

Ever wonder why you're drawn to certain colors—or how they affect the way your home feels? In this episode of Design Unscripted, interior designer Manuella Moreira explores the powerful psychology of color and how it shapes mood, memory, and emotion within a space.

From calming blues to energizing yellows and grounding neutrals, discover how to choose the right color palette based on how you want to feel—not just what’s trending. We’ll talk about cultural influences, childhood memories, and why color is one of the most personal design decisions you can make.

🎨 Whether you’re redecorating a room or designing from scratch, this episode will help you use color more intentionally—layered through paint, fabrics, wood tones, lighting, and more.

👉 Enjoying the show?
Please subscribe to our channel and leave a quick review—it helps us grow and means the world!
🔔 Subscribe here to our YouTube channel

The Hidden Layers of Design That Transform How Your Home Feels

Ever walked into a space and thought, “This just feels right”—but couldn’t explain why? In this episode of Design Unscripted, we’re diving deep into the invisible layers that make a home feel truly luxurious, grounded, and emotionally supportive.

We’ll explore how sensory design—through scent, sound, texture, and more—can completely transform the way your home feels. From the calming power of scent in a bedroom, to how acoustic comfort shapes atmosphere, and the role of texture in creating emotional connection, this episode reveals the subtle, often-overlooked details that go far beyond aesthetics.

Whether your home looks beautiful but still feels “off,” or you’re craving deeper comfort and connection in your space, this episode is your guide to designing with all five senses in mind.

✨ Plus, discover my signature scents Aura and Alchemy, designed to support the emotional experience of your home.

🎙️ Listen now and learn how to:

  • Use scent to create memory and calm
  • Make your home quieter and more comforting through sound
  • Select textures that feel as good as they look
  • Engage all five senses to create a home that truly feels like you

📌 Shop the candles featured
📲 Tag us on Instagram @manuellamoreirainteriors and share your favorite sensory element!

#SensoryDesign #InteriorDesignPodcast #EmotionalInteriors #LuxuryHomeTips #DesignUnscripted

Secrets to an Organized Home with Pro Organizer Isabelle Wood

In this episode of Design Unscripted, host Manuella Moreira is joined by professional organizer and founder of Organizing Engineers, Isabelle Wood, to uncover the real secrets to creating a home that’s both beautifully designed and deeply functional.

From emotional clutter to practical systems that actually work, Isabelle shares her proven 6-step organizing process, tips for maintaining order, and the most overlooked areas of the home that desperately need attention (hello, mudroom!). Whether you're overwhelmed by stuff, unsure where to start, or just want your home to feel calmer and more intentional, this episode will give you the tools and mindset to take action.

✨ Isabelle blends her background in mechanical engineering with her passion for functional design to create sustainable systems tailored to your lifestyle—not just Pinterest-worthy perfection. She also shares her favorite tools (spoiler: you need a label maker) and how a simple mantra—don’t put it down, put it away—can change your habits for good.

📌 In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • Why clutter is really just postponed decision-making
  • How to emotionally detach from items you’re holding onto
  • A step-by-step breakdown of Isabelle’s organizing method
  • The biggest mistakes people make when trying to get organized
  • Tools, habits, and systems that make staying organized easier
  • What “home” really means when it functions well

✨ CHAPTER MARKERS

 00:00 – Intro
 01:34 – Meet Isabelle Wood & her organizing philosophy
 04:52 – Combining function and aesthetics in organizing
 08:10 – Why clutter is postponed decisions
 12:00 – Helping clients let go of guilt
 16:05 – Isabelle’s 6-step organizing process
 26:14 – Decluttering tips and real-life examples
 31:48 – How to organize shared spaces
 34:20 – Maintaining systems with small habits
 37:00 – Entryway and mudroom organization hacks
 41:20 – One thing to do today to improve your space
 44:48 – Favorite organizing tools: Label maker & matching hangers
 48:00 – Fun rapid fire Q&A
 51:30 – What “home” means to Isabelle
 53:00 – How to connect with Isabelle online

📲 Connect with Isabelle Wood
Website: https://organizingengineers.com
Instagram: @organizing.engineers

💫 Enjoying the podcast?
Subscribe to the Design Unscripted YouTube channel for more inspiring conversations, expert design tips, and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of luxury interiors:
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🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you listen.
 💬 Don’t forget to like, comment, and share this episode with someone who needs a little organizing motivation!

#OrganizingTips #DeclutterYourHome #ProfessionalOrganizer #InteriorDesignPodcast #IsabelleWood #OrganizingEngineers #DesignUnscripted #HomeOrganization #FunctionalDesign #ClutterFreeLiving

The 5 Biggest Interior Design Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

Ever enter a room that looks beautiful but just feels off? You’re not alone—and chances are, one of the most common interior design mistakes is to blame.

In this episode of Design Unscripted, I’m walking you through the five biggest design mistakes I see all the time—and how to fix them with simple, expert-backed strategies.

From oversized furniture to harsh lighting, showroom-style shopping to flat-feeling layouts, we’ll talk about the subtle shifts that can instantly elevate your space and make it feel more intentional, more personal, and more you.

Spoiler: Beautiful design isn’t about perfection—it’s about proportion, flow, layers, and confidence in the details.

Inside this episode, I’ll walk you through:

• Why scale and proportion matter more than the pieces themselves
• The biggest lighting mistake that’s making your space feel cold
• How pulling furniture off the walls actually opens up a room
• Why buying everything from one brand works in theory—but not in real life
• How art, accessories, and texture tell your story and bring the space to life

If you’re designing, redecorating, or refining your space, this episode is packed with ideas to help you create a home that’s cohesive, elevated, and uniquely yours.

✨ In this episode:

  • [00:33] The #1 mistake that instantly throws off a room
  • [02:25] How to fix lighting that feels flat or harsh
  • [03:43] Why pushing furniture to the walls isn’t helping your layout
  • [04:55] The problem with buying everything from one store
  • [06:13] How art and accessories can bring your space to life

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Design Unscripted.

🎥 Want the visuals? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes footage from real projects, design inspiration, and a closer look at the process—plus the occasional cameo from my dog, Chloe.

📧 Subscribe to my newsletter for design tips, project reveals, and more inspiration.  📧


How to Find Your Interior Design Style: The 4-Step Process to Design a Home That Reflects Who You Are

You’ve probably asked yourself, What’s my interior design style?—and if you haven’t yet, your Pinterest board definitely has.

But with so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure where to even begin. Do you love clean lines and warm neutrals, or bold color and layered textures? Should you go modern, traditional, or somewhere in between? And how do you even start when you like a little bit of everything?

In this premiere episode of Design Unscripted, I’m sharing the same 4-step process I use with my private clients to help them uncover their unique style—and design spaces that feel effortless, functional, and fully them.

Spoiler: It’s not about choosing a label or following trends. It’s about clarity, intention, and creating a space that reflects who you are and how you live.

Inside this episode, I’ll walk you through: • The most important questions to ask before making any design decisions
• Why your favorite hotel or outfit might hold the key to your aesthetic
• How to gather inspiration (without falling down a Pinterest rabbit hole)
• Why function is the unsung hero of good design
• A mindset shift that will make experimenting way less intimidating

If you’ve ever felt stuck or second-guessed your taste, this episode will give you a clear path forward—and the confidence to trust your instincts.

Click >>PLAY<< to hear all of this and: [00:01] Welcome to Design Unscripted—and what to expect from the show
[01:03] Why asking “What’s your style?” is the wrong question
[01:44] Step 1: How to take inventory of what you like (and don’t like)
[02:45] Step 2: Gathering inspiration—and what to actually do with it
[03:36] Step 3: Consider your lifestyle before you pick a look
[04:33] Step 4: Experiment, play, and let your personality lead
[06:41] A quiz to uncover your personal Design Archetype

✨ Take the free quiz: manuellamoreira.com/design-archetype/


 Discover your Design Archetype and get curated tips and inspiration based on your results!

🎥 Want the visuals? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes footage from real projects, design inspiration, and a closer look at the process—plus the occasional cameo from my dog, Chloe. 

📧 Subscribe to my newsletter for design tips, project reveals, and more inspiration.  📧

 

Design Unscripted (Official Trailer)

Introducing Design Unscripted, where thoughtful design meets effortless living. Hosted by award-winning interior designer Manuella Moreira, this podcast is your destination for inspiring ideas, expert tips, and a fresh perspective on creating a home that’s both beautiful and deeply personal. Whether you’re a seasoned design enthusiast or simply love curated spaces, each episode offers creative insight to help you design a life — and a home — you love. Subscribe now and let your design journey unfold.

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