A monument to Art Deco sails into history, Fallingwater rises, and poise lamps and butterfly chairs take wing

This series looks back at iconic designs from each decade, starting in 1900. This installment covers transportation’s influence on 1930s styles, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater, and ’30s design objects still popular today.

If the story of a style icon could symbolize the arc of a decade, perhaps that’s what the SS Normandie’s does for the 1930s. The ocean liner embodied the can-do spirit of naval architect Vladimir Yourkevitch, who spent almost 20 years trying to convince people in Russia and France of his design’s superiority. It also exemplified the optimism of the French government, which subsidized its construction despite the U.S. stock market crash of 1929 and the looming worldwide Depression. The Normandie was innovative, big and fast, setting a speed record on its maiden voyage from France to New York in 1935. And until its tragic end, it was dazzling.

See how 10 couples reconfigure their living spaces after their children move out

While children are living at home, it can be hard to fathom a life without little ones (or not-so-little ones) underfoot. So when you do have the house to yourself, it may not be at all clear what to do. Should you keep everything as-is, renovate, downsize — or even upsize? Of course there’s no one right answer — but it makes sense to consider this an opportunity to reflect on what you want from this new chapter in your life and allow your reflections to inform your next step. Read on for 10 inspired examples of how real-life empty nesters approached their homes after the flock took flight, and see if any of their stories spark an idea you can use.

Arrange your compact living room to get the comfort, seating options and style you need

Though all small spaces present design challenges, the living room can be especially tricky as it is where you probably spend the most time and entertain guests as well. How do you strike a balance between making the room feel as spacious as possible while also squeezing in extra seating? What furniture should you choose, and where do you put it? These design tips will help you make the most of your space.

A coffee table is many things: a place to set your drink, a footrest, somewhere to stash the remote and — of course — a beautiful decorative addition to your living room. Or, at least, it has the potential to be all of these things. Your coffee table can also become a cluttered mess if you aren’t careful, or a drab disappointment if you’re scared to get a little creative. To help you achieve style success, I’ve put together some helpful guidelines with specific situations so you can master the art of decorating a coffee table.