Trends I love

As you all know, today is Valentine’s Day. For me, it’s not a really big day in our household but, I do think it is a nice reminder to stop and really appreciate our loved ones. Maybe hold them a little tighter and a little longer and to say thank you for all they do. It’s also a perfect day to to talk about the topic of our blog today, “Trends I Love”! There’s no need to beat around the “rose” bush, let’s get to it.

1. Color!

Get ready people, color is back! Don’t get me wrong, I have loved the white walls, and neutral color tones but I am ready for color to make it’s return. No longer do we need to save color for accent pieces and throw pillows. I am seeing bold colors on not only walls and ceilings, but cabinets too.

Love the color, love the name! Farrow & Ball’s new color “Sulking Room Pink,” is a wonderful color to complement any gray color scheme. See more at us.farrow-ball.com.

Bancha, by Farrow & Ball, is one of their newly introduced colors for 2019. It is so rich and dynamic and I love that it is on the ceiling in this picture. Dare to be bold! website: us.farrow-ball.com

2. Non-traditional Kitchens

You know, sometimes I love taking a step back from what is seemingly the best way of doing things and breaking it apart. It often, will take you right back to where you started, but other times, this is when the magic happens. For me, kitchens are the best example of that. So let’s take a look at a few examples of some unique kitchens, that are anything but traditional.

Who needs kitchen cabinets? When you have beautiful kitchenware, there really is no need! Love this design by Tinta Luhrman. You can find some really beautiful and unique wood products on her website, woodchuck.nl.

Here is another unique kitchen by Jersey Ice Cream Co. Take a look at those plaster walls! So much depth and interest. And that kitchen sink…….Well done, Jersey Ice Cream Co.! website: jerseyicecreamco.com

3. Plaster Walls

I am seeing more and more plaster walls and I have very pleased this trend is returning. Plaster walls add depth, interest and personality to an otherwise plain wall. There is something about the movement that is gained in a space with earthy walls. My favorite plaster on the market is American Clay. It is not only stunning, but also non-toxic and sustainable. These walls, you will want to touch!!

That right there is what I am talking about. Love these plaster walls by Jersey Ice Cream Company. If you don’t follow them on Instagram by now, you are missing out! Website: jerseyicecreamco.com

American Clay walls by Sandi Imondi with Imondi Interiors. Website: imondiinteriors.com

4. Leather Straps

Yup. I said it. Leather Straps. I am seeing them incorporated in wall mounted shelves, seat cushions, window coverings and cabinet hardware, to name a few and I. Love. It. The leather pairs really well with metal and velvet and it takes an ordinary cushion into extraordinary.

So much yes! I love everything about this picture but those bespoke cushions are where it is at! Design by Geremia Design, website: geremiadesign.com. Photography by Nicole Franzen.

This coffee shop, Otto’s located in the historic Adolphus Hotel is top notch. Design by Swoon, located in Dallas, TX. Check them out at swoonthestudio.com. Or the next time you are in the Dallas area, check out it for yourself!

5. Glass Partitions and Doors

Why should commercial properties get to have all the fun? I have been seeing glass partition walls pop up more and more in residential settings and I have to say I am a huge fan! I love having the visual break in a space but not necessarily closing off rooms with traditional walls.

What an absolutely lovely library and space designed by Busatti Australia. Website: busatti.com.au

This space is perfection when it comes to a downtown city loft. Design perfectly done by Becky Shea. Website: beckyshea.com

Well Folks. There you have it. My top five trends that are happening right now in the design industry. I hope you love them as much as I do. Make sure to squeeze your loved ones extra tight today!

Stay True!

Allyson

Five Reasons To Hire A Designer

Let’s be real for a second.  Interior design today is more accessible than ever before.  There are countless shows dedicated to our passion for design.  From the self made DIY designers to the traditionally trained designers and everything in between. Not to mention there is so much information on Pinterest, You Tube, Houzz and of course design blogs. It’s true, even I can be found zoning out on the pages of my own favorite designers on instagram from time to time. However, with all the content out there, it can be easy to believe that hiring an interior designer isn’t necessary anymore.  Well today on my blog we will be discussing five reasons why that just isn’t true!

1. You will save money!

Whether you’re looking to tear down a wall in your outdated ranch or rehab that drab kitchen, a trained Interior Designer really has the skill set to carry out your vision. With comprehensive drawings and specifications, big costly mistakes, like ordering the wrong size refrigerator, are less likely to happen. Designers are all about the details and those details can cost big if missed.

2. You will save time.  

Many homeowners can run in circles trying to make decisions.  If you don’t believe me, walk into a tile showroom and pick just one tile that you love. People’s lives are busier than ever and taking on a fixer upper or any sort of home project can be a full time job. Ask yourself if you have the time, skills, and resources to manage a design project and if not, that’s where a designer comes in. It’s our job to take your vision, organize your options, and put those choices into detailed drawings, specifications and pricing proposals.  Clients have a better understanding of the process of construction projects with a designer on board.

3. You have an advocate.

Projects inevitably run into problems.  It’s not a matter of if but when. Designers are problem solvers, that’s what we do best.  When issues come up with construction, for example, the designer is there to facilitate not only a solution that works for the contractor but one that works for the Client and the overall design as well.  A designer is there to represent and advocate for your best interest. They are also there to help you make the decisions that you are unsure of or might not even consider like furniture placement or repurposing materials or furniture.  From design to execution, I am with you every step of the way.

4.  Interior design is not just for the wealthy. 

Throw out your ideas that an interior designer is only for people who have lots of money. People who appreciate good design also understand that good design is an investment and that it does not have to break the bank.  My approach to design is to stay true to the roots and the client.  I love repurposing materials and finding solutions to meet the needs of my clients.  I have worked with all sorts of budgets including my own and I know good design does not have to cost a fortune. 

5. Our job is to understand what works.

Are you unsure of your style or can’t decide on one? Maybe you want design that will last for years to come.  Designers are more in tune with current trends and products that are available. You are less likely to have an interior that is out of style in a year with a designer.  Not to mention the huge amount of resources available to designers. I am not one who is led by trends but I do believe in creating a look that is holistic and stands the test of time.  A designer is going to know the best places to source your desired look and bring the vision all together.  From local businesses to large vendors a designer will have the right connections to carry out the project and within your budget. 

So there you have it, my unsolicited advice on why hiring a designer like me, is a great idea. If your not sure if a designer is what you need, don’t hesitate to reach out to myself or any designer. Have the conversation. That’s the only way you will know for sure! Up next on my blog, what questions to ask your designer!

Stay True!

Allyson