The Winner of Etsy’s Design Awards Is the Cure for a Blank Wall—And It’s Under $200

Seasoned designer and judge Jake Arnold reveals where he'd hang it.
geometric wall hanging on pink background
Etsy

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In 2021, an intricately gold-detailed wall mirror stole the hearts of Leanne Ford and Etsy shoppers everywhere, shining a light on the platform’s independent creators for the brand’s 3rd annual Design Awards. This year, in partnership with The Expert, former creative director and president of J.Crew Jenna Lyons and interior designer Jake Arnold were among the panel that chose the winners from 100 semifinalists. If you were worried about finding inspiration for blank walls this time around, have no fear: the 2022 grand prize went to a stunning, geometric wall hanging from We Are Lunarium. Spanning wedding apparel, kids’ toys, jewelry, and, (of course) home goods, the latest standouts have inspired Arnold to shop on Etsy more (bonus: you’ll be able to bypass all those pesky supply chain delays). Ahead, peep the best of the best in each of the interior categories, and why they’re worthy of their titles. 

The Grand Prize Winner

What initially attracted Arnold to the hanging, which is crafted out of a combination of tassels, beads, and wood carvings was its price point (it starts at only $190 for the hook-less version). But beyond that, he admires the impact it makes on a space, wherever you hang it. “I’m dying to use it in a playroom, it’s so tactical,” he says. He also told us that it’s the perfect statement piece for a vast stairwell wall (so long, gallery art) or a stark TV room.  

The People’s Choice 

When the panel asked actual Etsy customers to turn in their votes, they chose a wavy, wooden mirror by Surrey Woodsmiths. Made from one, solid (!) block of Birch, the round piece is ideal for adding a natural touch to a bathroom, be it over a powder room sink or above a double vanity. 

The Best of Furniture 

“Imagine owning this for years, and reupholstering it in a crazy pattern,” says Arnold about this simple daybed from Bertu Home. “It can be reinvented whenever you get bored.”

The Top Vintage Find

Etsy is every treasure hunter’s not-so-secret weapon, so the awards wouldn’t be complete without a mid-century modern pick. This spikey, red and white pendant lamp is from the 1960s, and Arnold couldn’t get over its seriously retro look. “There’s so much personality,” he says. The pendant is the kind of trophy you’d actually love having on display.

Kate McGregor

Writer/Editor

Kate McGregor covers everything related to the home, from design inspiration to IKEA hacks. She has been the market assistant at ELLE Decor where she focused on curating product for the print magazine’s market pages.

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