Stuck in the Pandemic Doldrums?

I hope that this finds you, your family and friends in good health. After staying in our homes for weeks on end, many of us have developed serious cabin fever. Over the years, working with clients in all types of life situations, I have witnessed first hand, how making even the most minor change to a living space, can lift our spirits. 

Since we are pretty much stuck indoors, why not use this time to re-accessorize your home? It is more fun than reorganizing your closets and can instantly give your space a fresh feel and reboot its style. An added bonus is that no purchases are needed, it’s not necessary to discard your existing accessories or leave the comfort of your home!

Celebrate Personal Style

Accessories give a living space interest and distinction. When you use items that truly speak to you, they provide a deeper connection and attachment to your surroundings. They also speak volumes about you to the rest of the world. 

It is both the accessory selection and arrangement that contribute to a successful end result. There are no hard and fast rules to follow, but I find the following rather loose guidelines helpful.

It’s All in the Details

Before you dive in, take a look around your space and assess the situation.              Do your accessories need to be pared down? It’s not uncommon to keep adding and adding items without taking anything away, diluting their effectiveness. Just removing a few items, can make a noticeable difference by itself.

One of the simplest ways to instantly refresh a space, without any financial investment, is to remove all of the accessories and only put half to two thirds of them back. Making sure that they are placed in different locations or grouped together in a new arrangement will make them feel new again!

Some Basics

• The most interesting accessories are personal, imaginative and not dictated by trends or fashion. Juxtapose opposites to create interest. Combine old with new, rare with ordinary, expensive with thrift shop finds.

• Scale is important. The size of an accessory must relate to it’s surroundings. For example, a 12-inch square accent pillow will totally disappear on a nine-foot long sofa or sectional. 

• A composition of items that vary in size, usually feels most balanced when the taller and heavier objects are placed at the rear. 

• Grouping small objects together will create greater scale and presence. I have a collection of small frogs, which are similar in size and color, but varied in material and texture. The group stands proudly atop a stack of  books on my coffee table. Individually displayed, they would become instant wallflowers.

• Not every item can play a leading role. As in a dramatic production, some objects must assume supporting roles so that the “stars” aren’t upstaged. 

• Vary the texture of objects to create contrast and interest. Like items in the same texture, become monotonous. A zillion years later, I can hear my design professor reciting “shiny, dull, rough and smooth”, as he critiqued our school projects.

• Create a collection by grouping items according to a common theme. The common thread can be almost anything… the type of object, the shape, size, color, material, etc..  A friend created a collection of inexpensive white  porcelain bowls in varied shapes and sizes. Sitting on a black table surface, the shapes and textures came alive, making a stark, dramatic statement.

• Last but not least… try not to be too serious. Incorporate some humor whenever possible.

Remember Your Best Friend

Don’t overlook your pet’s accessories. There are tons of stylish, edgy selections to choose from. It’s no longer necessary to have a tartan plaid pet bed in the middle of your mid-century modern living room. If your pet’s bed looks a little worn, take a look online at some possible new options, without ever having to leave home! 

Embrace Change

Ideally the accessories in your home should evolve, as your life and home evolve. When approached as an on-going process, it keeps your living space feeling fresh. 

It is my hope that some of these ideas will inspire you to shake the cobwebs off of your home accessories and shift your mood by bringing some new style and polish to your home! 

Posted in Change

Bye-Bye, Bulky Furniture

Since many of our clients reside in and around New York City, it is almost a given that they often live in smaller spaces and look to us for design solutions to maximize their size and style.

We understand that small spaces are not just smaller, they are different.

A Washington Post article revealed that the Chief Executive Officer of Pottery Barn realizes this too. She shared with investors that in February, they began introducing sleeker furniture designs because “As people move into smaller living arrangements…the large scale furniture is difficult”.

However, the lack of space alone might not explain the change in taste and the desire for a more streamlined aesthetic. I had an opportunity with Realtor.com to explore some thoughts on this in their article:

Bye-Bye Bulky Furniture: 5 Oversize Items on the Outs

The article features five hulking pieces, which designers felt have over-lived their stay. Scroll down to the “Plush Recliners” and “Dining Set” sections to find our input.

If you have downsized, or live in a small space that feels like it is shrinking, there are many design solutions, in addition to sleeker furniture, that can give you room to breathe again.

If you need assistance with breathing some new life into your space, take a look at our “Design Pinpoints” they may provide just the consultative support you need!

 

Posted in Blog, Small Spaces

Spring Reboot

Who doesn’t love spring? As we watch the outdoor landscape transform, it is not unusual for us to feel that our homes could use a boost of fresh energy too.

Accessories are a great way to do this. They give our home interest, distinction and provide a deeper personal connection. However, as time passes, most of us keep adding more accessories to our space, but rarely remove any, which dilutes their effectiveness.

One of the simplest ways to instantly refresh a space, without great financial investment, is to remove all of the accessories and then only put half of them back. Placing them back in a different location or mixing them with other pieces will make them feel new again!

Recently, I had the opportunity with BrickUnderground.com to share some strategies on how to use the full potential of the accessories you already have update a space, in their article:

Spring Reboot: 7 ways to freshen up your apartment today

The article has a variety of creative tips for refreshing your living space right now. Scroll down to the “Compose a Look” section to find our quote.

If you need assistance with breathing some new life into your space, take a look at our new “Design Pinpoints” they may provide just the consultative support you need!

 

Posted in Blog, Change

Bringing Comfort Home – WSJ.com

How to Make Any Room a Guest Room

Comfort is an important element in our homes all year round. However, we often spend more time inside of our living spaces during the winter months and become more aware of how they really make us feel. This may be why the age old Danish concept of “Hygge” (pronounced Hoo-guh), which means bringing happiness to the home through coziness and comfort, has become the focus of so much attention.

Recently, I had the opportunity to explore some simple ways to add comfort to our homes, with WSJ.com in a podcast episode on their program “Watching Your Wealth”:

How to Make Your Home Feel More Cozy

When the demands of the outside world make it difficult to find tranquility and relaxation, try out some of these ideas to transform your home into a soothing sanctuary!

If you need assistance, take a look at our new “Design Pinpoints” they may provide just the consultative support you need!

 

Posted in Blog, Change

Design Pinpoints

We are so excited to share that we have added the following interior design services, which have sprung up from client’s requests.

Loaded with inspiration and ideas, clients have reached out to us because they are struggling with turning them into reality. Some don’t know where to begin. Others have had less than stellar DIY results or didn’t have the right fit with a designer. A little input from a trained professional has helped them move forward successfully.

Take a look. Is one of the following “Design Pinpoints” a good fit for you or someone you know?

 Downsize / Resize Plan

It is always challenging to visualize what will work in a new living space, especially when the size of the space is smaller or the layout is a little different than what you have now.

This comprehensive package includes:

  • A two-hour in-person visit to your Manhattan home to review the floor plan and photos of a room in your new space.
  • A detailed discussion of your lifestyle and design sensibilities
  • The creation of a plan for your new smaller space, which will include selecting and photographing furnishings that are going to be reused from your current residence.
  • The creation of a preliminary shopping list of furnishings, rugs, and window treatments needed to complete the design of your new home.

After the meeting, a copy of the floor plan, list of items for reuse and items needed, will be emailed to you and are yours to keep.

The option of adding an additional 30-minute follow-up consultation phone call to this package is available or can be purchased as a separate service in the future. This design call can be used to answer any additional questions that may occur after the initial consultation.

  • Please note that requests for consultations outside of Manhattan will include travel time and expenses for travel.

In compliance with state laws, sales tax is charged on all services.

Renovation Consult

Renovations significantly affect the resale value of our homes and the decisions involved can feel confusing and overwhelming. Booking a preliminary consultation on your renovation will help you get a jumpstart on the steps you need to plan, the decisions to be made and prepare you for your renovation.

This detailed package includes:

  • A two-hour in-person visit to your Manhattan home to review the floor plan and photos of a room in your new space.
  • A discussion of your lifestyle and design sensibilities
  • A review and discussion of the inspiration images, ideas and samples that you have gathered.
  • Assistance with making the tough decisions and selecting finishes, cabinet styles, fixtures and fittings.

A list of the selected items will be emailed to you and are yours to keep.

The option of adding an additional 30-minute follow-up consultation phone call to this package is available or can be purchased as a separate service in the future. This design call can be used to answer any additional questions that may occur after the initial consultation.

*Please note that requests for consultations outside of Manhattan will include travel time and expenses for travel.

In compliance with state laws, sales tax is charged on all services.

House Call Makeover

During times of personal transition… such as divorce, marriage, retirement, loss of a spouse, etc., our homes are often radically disrupted and don’t feel or function as before. It is often challenging to visualize how your home can transition to support you in this lifestyle change. Having another set of eyes, trained in design and renovation, can help you transform your current living space to one that reflects who you are today.

This in-depth package includes:

  • A two-hour in-person visit to your Manhattan home to review the floor plan and photos of a room in your new space.
  • A detailed discussion of your lifestyle and design sensibilities
  • The creation of a plan for your space, which will include selecting and photographing furnishings that are going to be reused from your current residence.
  • The creation of a preliminary shopping list of furnishings, rugs, and window treatments needed to complete the design of your new home.

After the meeting, a copy of the floor plan, list of items for reuse and items needed, will be emailed to you and are yours to keep.

The option of adding an additional 30-minute follow-up consultation phone call to this package is available or can be purchased as a separate service in the near future. This design call can be used to answer any additional questions that may occur after the initial consultation.

  • Please note that requests for consultations outside of Manhattan will include travel time and expenses for travel.

In compliance with state laws, sales tax is charged on all services.

Please contact us for fees and rates for these services. I am really looking forward to helping you create a beautiful home, in which you will not just survive, but thrive and enjoy it’s full potential!

 

Posted in Change

Home for the Holidays with Pets

WOOFipedia Holiday Decorating Tips

Yes, it is possible to transform your everyday living space into a warm, welcoming and festive retreat that is both elegant and pet-friendly this holiday season!

Recently, I had the opportunity to explore some ideas to make the experience easier, with WSJ.com in a podcast episode on their program “Watching Your Wealth”:

“Holiday Decorating Tips (That are Pet-friendly)”

Remember your pets when decorating for the holidays. You and your guests will be able to sit back, relax and fully enjoy the festivities without having to anticipate what possible pet-related drama may occur!

Posted in Blog, Holidays, Pet-Friendly Design

Keeping Tradition Fresh

It’s hard to believe that the holiday season is already here! However, this time of year offers so many possibilities for sharing joyous traditions, especially when entertaining at home. We hope that this post will bring some new life to your holiday celebrations this year.

Keeping Tradition Fresh

During the holidays, there are countless opportunities to entertain at home and share valued family traditions with the people that we care about. However, sometimes the courage to release old traditions, which have diminished in meaning, can be a source of renewed joy. Luckily, each new year also presents us with a chance to create a few new ones!

When entertaining, table settings and candlelight can contribute as much to the ambience of a event as the design of the room. Following are some suggestions for combining the new with the old to bring fresh energy to your holiday celebrations:

Mix and Layer

 Create new interest by mixing fabric patterns or layering table coverings. Consider using the white damask monogrammed dinner napkins that your Mother gave you, with a boldly striped contemporary tablecloth. Conversely, the white crocheted lace tablecloth, that your grandmother made, will come alive when paired with lime green napkins and a shocking pink or dark brown under-cloth.

To transform your dining table into a show-stopping buffet, layer a boldly colored cloth diagonally over a contrasting underskirt that reaches to the floor. Note that, in a pinch, flat bed sheets, allowed to puddle on the floor, are a great substitute for a floor-length underskirt.

Mix and Layer Again

Dishes and glassware also become more interesting when colors and patterns are mixed. Break up the boredom of a matching set of traditional, formal china by combining it with pieces of simple, contemporary dinnerware in bold colors and simple shapes.

Another, more quiet, approach is to mix together all-white dinnerware in different patterns and shapes. To break the silence, combine them with emerald green or cobalt blue glassware.

The very traditional cut glass wine glasses, inherited from your Great Aunt, will start to sing when paired next to the clean, simple lines of a contemporary stemmed water glass.

Let There be Light

Looking for a simple, modern centerpiece to add life to a traditional table setting? Assemble a dozen or two white pillar candles, in varying heights and diameters, on top of a frameless mirror that runs the length of your table. The mirror will intensify the light, while protecting your favorite table coverings from dripping candle wax.

Stagger candle heights across the landscape of your table to create more interest, mixing votives and tapers. If you are worried about accidents with children or pets, consider using the modern version of candles, which are battery-powered. There are some really great looking imposters.

Make the old feel new again by displaying votive candles inside a collection of vintage crystal glasses. Tall, thin taper candles can be added to flowers or greens arranged in antique bowls or containers and secured in place with candle adhesive.

Although charming, a lit fireplace can quickly heat up a guest-filled room. To create the same look, without the warmth, fill the hearth with lit candles.

Our Most Valuable Tip?

Experiment. Dare to ditch the tired and feeble. Make some new additions and create entertaining venues that still retain the true meaning of your traditions, but are a better fit with your own lifestyle today… and remember to have fun.

If you need assistance in preparing your home for this holiday season, let us help. A simple design consultation can gets things going in the right direction!

 

Posted in Change, Holidays, Uncategorized

When the Fine Print is Missing

when-the-fine-print-is-missing-photo

Please pull up a chair and get comfortable. I think that the following real-life story is worth a few minutes of your time. My hope is that, by sharing it with you, you will sidestep some major design and renovation disappointments.

Sometimes, as a design professional, the Universe leaves information on your doorstep that bothers you. It really bothers you. It is the kind of “bothers you” that nips at your heels all day, interrupts your thoughts at dinner and wakes you up at 5:00 am, knowing that you cannot keep it to yourself. This is one of those times!

Recently, a colleague forwarded me a blog post, written by a leading online home design site. The piece, a case study of a kitchen renovation featuring before and after photos, focused on the limitations of working with a 100 square foot space. She thought that it would be of particular interest, because we specialize in the design and renovation of small spaces.

The renovated kitchen was very attractive and incorporated some creative solutions for maximizing a small space. The piece detailed the design features and also revealed elements of the original space that had been altered to accomplish this. The list of alterations included the moving and replacement of walls, plumbing and electrical, which are not inexpensive cosmetic changes. Most New York City buildings also require that work like this be reviewed by their building architect and filed with the Building Department, involving drawings and an expeditor. Again, not minimal expenses.

Reading along, impressed that the information provided in this piece seemed so transparent, I was pleasantly surprised to see the inclusion of following “Cost Breakdown” for the project.

Cost Breakdown:

Kitchen Cabinets and Installation: $28,000

Countertop material: $3,800

Countertop Installation: $2,500

Backsplash Material: $4,000

Backsplash Installation: $1,800

Appliances: $13,000

Total: $53,100

Unfortunately, as I reviewed the breakdown, I quickly became much less pleasantly surprised!

Based on my experience, the “Total” pricing seemed pretty low and, looking closer, I realized why. The breakdown did not include any construction costs, design fees or building department filing costs! For those of you who have been through a renovation, you know that these costs represent a substantial portion of a project budget.

Why were these costs not included? I don’t know. Maybe it was an oversight? Hopefully!

Whatever happened here, it was extremely unsettling that a well-known resource, would provide information in such a seemingly professional, polished manner, which could be so easily misunderstood.

Unfortunately, the fine print was missing from this renovation story, which seems to happen a lot, since the advent of reality TV and online sites promoting design.

When making a large financial investment, like a renovation, most people know to read the fine print. However, it is also important to know when the fine print is actually missing! This is value that an experienced design professional can provide.

Whether a renovation is in your future or not, we hope that you will find something useful in this real-life tale from our doorstep. Who knows? I think this may be just one story, in on-going series, as we will continue to make you aware of potential pitfalls!

As always, if you need assistance, we are here to help! In addition to full-project design, we also offer design consultations, when you just need a few hours of professional support.

 

Posted in Home Renovation, Small Spaces, Uncategorized

When is it Time?

realtor-com-photo

For most of us, our kitchen is the heart of our home… the glue that holds our home life together.

However, as our lives and kitchen evolve, we aren’t always conscious of their effect in shaping our world. Has the space become dysfunctional, uninspiring or just plain depressing? Is it a barrier for realsale or rental? Often, it is difficult to be objective.

Recently, in an article with Realtor.com, I had the opportunity to explore signs that a kitchen may be crying out for a renovation:

“7 Signs Your Kitchen is Way Overdue for a Remodel”

If your space is on it’s last leg or just looking tired, we hope that you will find some value in this for yourself.

As always, we are here to help. A simple design consultation can help get it moving in the right direction!

 

Posted in Blog, Change, Home Renovation, Uncategorized

Condo Makeovers / Schiffer Publishing

renovation-book-cover-cropped

We are thrilled to share that two of our projects are featured in Condo Makeovers, a wonderful new book hot off the presses from Schiffer Publishing and available online at Amazon.com and  Barnes & Noble. Focused on the design and renovation of homes in high-rise condos and apartments, it provides a peek into thirty beautifully photographed, one-of-a-kind living spaces.

Thank you to our clients, friends and colleagues for your support, encouragement and inspiration!

Posted in Change, Custom Furninshings, Home Renovation, Small Spaces