Wallcovering - Old is New again

Wallcovering has made a huge come-back in recent years. With everything from natural grasscloth textures, to flocked (yes, we said flocked), to removable options, there's something for every style and budget.

We recently completed a 1-1/2 year long remodel and chose to use wallcovering in a couple of the rooms. And what an impact it made! The wallcoverings we chose added subtle color and visual texture that can’t be achieved from paint alone. Well worth the investment in our opinion!

Here are some styles we’ve been drooling over lately:

You thought we were crazy with the flocking comment, right? Check out this beauty! An updated classic Damask pattern by Graham & Brown called Naughty Noir. This would be gorgeous in a Dining Room - or Powder Room!

Wood paneling of the past has been replaced with this beauty. Ajiro by Maya Romanoff has several colors and patterns available that will create a beautiful and timeless look for any room.

Little unsure of making the commitment to wallcovering? There are several companies offering "removable" papers. Lots of impact, for a nominal investment - and if you decide you don't like it, no worries! I'm loving Wallcandy Arts - so much fun on one website!

Lenny Kravitz + Design = Incredible Combo?

Art is art, creativity is creativity - in any industry!

See the article here:

http://nyti.ms/AAUwFi

Budget Kitchen Remodel!

BEFORE

AFTER

This dramatic renovation included: updating the cabinets, new counter tops, tile backsplash, new appliances, the addition of a new breakfast bar & wine storage, improving the lighting and accessorizing this kitchen, all within their fairly tight budget!

School's In Session!

Looking to spruce up your office now that the kids are back to school? Here are some great tips!

The first thing you will need is a good, functional desk. Check out places like Ikea, they have beautiful (and functional) desk units from $140! Check out the Galant series which has tons of flexible options:

Next, make sure you have adequate storage for all office necessities, such as fax machines, paper supplies, pens, pencils, etc. Purchase several different types of storage cabinets, to ensure you’ll be able to keep everything tidy. Filing cabinets are always essential to keep paperwork organized and in its proper place. We really like the multiple options of the Effectiv series from Ikea to keep all those necessities neat and out of sight:
Here are some great tips on "dressing up" your office space:

• Use a minimal amount of accessories to keep the space looking crisp and clean.
• Opt for great artwork on the walls instead of lots of accessory items to clutter up your work surfaces.
• Paint the walls a great color. If you’re afraid of all-over color, paint an accent wall to brighten up the space.
• And last, but not least, make sure you have comfy chairs for the whole family

Finds under $50...Dorm Decor

Back to school time! Here are some fun finds that will add some spice to that bland dorm room.

Storage is always a huge issue in a tiny dorm room. These colorful fabric bins can hold everything - from books, to bathroom necessities, to clothes.

Looking for some purposeful art? How fun are these cork boards from Crate & Barrel!

Bedding is the simplest way to add pattern and color to your room. Loving this bold print from Target - and the pieces are under $25 each!
Tired of that old, worn out commercial carpet? Dress it up with a fun area rug!

"Skate-able" home

Form meets function in a most unique way. Kudos to this architect for taking on this amazing challenge and succeeding!

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/21/garden/designing-a-house-in-which-every-surface-is-skateable-qa.html?ref=interiordesign

A new take on home staging...

This article poses an interesting question - to stage for "anyone and everyone", or to appeal to a certain design taste. I think it can definitely depend on which part of the country you live in, if the home resides in an urban or rural locale, and the actual architecture of the structure. I truly believe people in the market don't go into a home expecting to see no evidence of someone residing there, but I do feel that you should make it as "appealing" as possible.

Check out the article here:

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/05/nyregion/getting-a-lived-in-look-to-look-the-way-buyers-wants-to-live.html?_r=1&ref=interiordesign

Selling your home and need some "appeal"? Call us today! 480-994-0833