While this home resembles the kind of Greek revival townhouse that lined the streets of New Orleans 150 years ago, it was actually built in 2004. “I went out of my way to make it as convincing as possible,” says the homeowner. The home’s interior leavens period reverence with contemporary brio, for a look that’s constantly evolving.

The kitchen is so often the center of home activity, and it’s even more so when there are kids around. But setting up a space that can handle everything from homework and play dough to family dinner takes a little thinking. Here are 12 ideas for designing and organizing your kitchen to make it the bustling but not chaotic (at least most of the time) hub of family life you want it to be.

TWIST on Tradition: Freshen up a favorite display—or create a fabulous new focal point—by mixing traditional accents with updated pieces in unexpected colors, materials, and motifs. Fresh, neutral accents add a layer of texture to any space without feeling cluttered, like this pierced, tapered jar with a finial-topped lid.

I have compiled a list of habits I’ve observed in the decorating and design world. Habits that I believe need to be broken. Many of these may have begun as good intentions — but we all know where that path leads! I’ve assembled 12 of those habits here. I’ve struggled with each and every one of them personally and feel I have come out on the other side a better designer for it. Although each lesson is valuable, in the hierarchy of habits to be broken, there is none more important than No. 12.

Architect David Marlatt has a love-hate relationship with the sun. He’s always looking to capture its natural light for the homes he designs, but at the same time trying to block — or sometimes harness — all its heat.