ud / journal

ud / journal is a window into our world—where design, lifestyle, and the rhythms of upstate living converge. Here, we share stories behind the spaces we create, our favorite local finds, thoughtful guides for slower living, and the inspiration that shapes our point of view. Think of it as a quiet moment to pause, wander, and get to know Upstate Down a little better.

Design Caitlin Barrett Design Caitlin Barrett

Why We Love Armadillo Rugs (and Why You Will Too)

At Upstate Down, we’re always on the hunt for pieces that bring warmth, texture, and longevity into the spaces we design—and when it comes to rugs, Armadillo consistently rises to the top. Their collection is understated in the best possible way: earthy, timeless, beautifully made. These are not trendy rugs meant to be rotated out in a year. They’re designed to live with you, to ground a room, and to age with quiet elegance. That’s why we’re so thrilled to now carry a curated selection of Armadillo rugs at UD Shoppe.

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Design Caitlin Barrett Design Caitlin Barrett

The Enduring Appeal of Zellige

If you've spent any time dreaming about kitchens, bathrooms, or that elusive perfect mudroom, chances are you’ve come across zellige tile—shiny, uneven, rich in color and character. It’s the kind of tile that immediately stands out for what it isn’t: flat, uniform, or mass-produced. Instead, zellige feels alive—each piece a little different from the next, catching the light in unexpected ways, humming with history.

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Interior Design Caitlin Barrett Interior Design Caitlin Barrett

Room to Breathe: Designing with a Sense of Place in the Hudson Valley

In the Hudson Valley, space feels different. Time slows a bit. The landscape—the stillness of the mountains, the shifting light on the river—has a way of settling into your bones. It’s no surprise that interiors shaped here often carry that same quiet clarity: a softness in the palette, a groundedness in the materials, a certain calm in the way rooms unfold.

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UD Shoppe Hazel Kiesewetter UD Shoppe Hazel Kiesewetter

holiday gift guide 2024

Easily get your holiday shopping done in our online store or in person in Rhinebeck. We’ve got something for (most) all the people on your “nice” list.

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