The Collector’s Nest: Austin, TX Rental Designed to Feel Collected, Not Styled

Jewel tones, natural materials, layered patterns, and texture throughout — these are the details that define The Collector’s Nest. This one-bedroom, one-bath rental property in Austin, Texas was designed to feel rich, personal, and intentionally collected.

The design concept for The Collector’s Nest was inspired by world travel, eclectic design, and a love for mixing pieces from different eras and places. Modern furniture is layered with vintage and secondhand finds, creating a space that feels gathered over time rather than styled all at once.

The design direction comes through in a mix of blues, greens, mauves, and subtle purples layered throughout the condo. Natural materials play a key role — wood, rattan, woven textures, and soft textiles help ground the bolder colors and patterns, keeping the space warm and inviting.

Because the condo is small, texture, pattern, and layering do most of the work. Every surface matters, and each layer adds depth, making the space feel thoughtful, intentional, and full of character.

Living Areas: Living Room, Dining, and Work Station

This condo features one large, open living area where the living room, dining space, and work station blend seamlessly together. The entire space is wrapped in Milton & King Starseed wallpaper — a vintage-inspired, playful pattern with a mix of colors that feel bold while still calming. It became the visual foundation for the condo and set the tone early on.

The dining area is anchored by a sculptural round dining table paired with four vintage chairs sourced secondhand — one of my favorite finds from the project. Vintage furniture instantly adds character, and these chairs bring warmth and personality to the space.

In the living room, layered seating, statement tables, color, and texture come together to create a space that feels warm, relaxed, and inviting — designed to be lived in, not overstyled.

Along the back wall sits a desk that doubles as a vanity, styled with a rattan mirror above. The desk is an Anthropologie piece I found on Facebook Marketplace for less than half the original price — a reminder that good design isn’t about buying everything new, but about knowing how to mix pieces thoughtfully.

The Bedroom: A Layered, Cocooned Retreat

The bedroom balances comfort with bold design. Rich color, graphic pattern, and texture come together to create a space that feels both enveloping and expressive. Wrapped in Milton & King x Poodle & Blonde 1970s wallpaper, the room feels layered and dramatic, especially when paired with the surrounding green paint. The pattern and saturated colors make a strong statement while still feeling warm and inviting.

One of my favorite details in the bedroom is the headboard, which is actually a vintage Moroccan floor pouf I found on Facebook Marketplace and mounted on the wall. It adds warmth, texture, and a sense of story, instantly making the space feel more personal and collected.

Layered textiles, jewel-toned pillows, and soft lighting finish the room, reinforcing the balance between bold design and comfort — a space that feels rich, welcoming, and memorable.

A Collected Ending

The Collector’s Nest is built on layers — color, pattern, texture, and collected pieces that add depth and character. Vintage finds and small secondhand details bring history and story, while textiles, wallpaper, and worn-in finishes make the space feel richer the longer you’re in it. It’s about thoughtful layering and intentional sourcing, not perfection.

Until next time —Chloe Photos by @stillhauscreative