In the world of interior design, writes the editor of House of Joy (Gestalten, 2022), “the word joy is increasingly floating around. Tidiness guru Marie Kondo built her empire on the simple question: does it spark joy? The answer, . . . whether it refers to tossing away an unloved hat or painting an entire wall orange, will be as specific to you as the print of your thumb.” So stated is the underlying theme of Gestalten’s speculative of 24 residences across the world with one thing in common: interiors that, in some way or another, elicit feelings of delight, glee, or even elation in the beholder.

This sitting room of a Nob Hill residence in San Francisco is no exception. Renowned designer Jonathan Adler—whose interior decorating projects are rare gems to behold—took on the task of converting a 1915 house into a modern space that reflects the homeowner’s sense of fun. Adler started by applying a layer of bright white paint throughout, tucking it into every nook and cranny to create a clean slate while simultaneously adding a contemporary flair to historic aspects (in the case of this room, the intricate rococo-esque design of the fireplace, mantel, and ceiling mouldings). From there, Adler employed his keen sense of color and fun-loving designs to pop against the white, with the purple drapes, throw pillows, and various pieces of art contrasting with the metallic accents in the side tables, sconces, coffee table, and intricate centerpiece bowl. The pièce de résistance is the ether cloud settee, a couch of Adler’s own design with a backrest that mimics cartoon clouds and lends an air of cheekiness that can’t help but bring a smile to your face. Create a striking, joyful sitting room to remember with these nine finds.

1. Ether Cloud Settee // jonathanadler.com

2. Sunpan Aries Industrial Concrete Drum Outdoor Coffee Table // kathykuohome.com

3. Fergie Rug in Ice Cream// bradfordsruggallery.com

4. Canaan Accent Table by Jonathan Adler // moro.com

5. Tallow Candle // fitzandbennetthome.com

6. Foglio Wall Sconce by Tobia Scarpia // perigold.com

7. Adorn Brass Bowl // cb2.com

8. Zaza Circle Pillow // leahsingh.com

9. Michelle Sakhai, The Emporer, IV (Arcana), Oil & Metal Leaf, 20″ x 20″ // kwcontemporaryart.com