Seasonal Archives - Schlosser Design Group LLC

Live Beautifully Organized

Dec 29/in Blogs We Love, Seasonal/by Cristie Schlosser, RID, ASID, NCIDQ

As a residential holistic design firm, we can help you enhance every area of your home with elegant interior design solutions. A key piece to incorporate in a luxurious living experience is innovative storage and organization methods in your environment. The idea and function of the home has changed in recent months. Are there areas that need a little refresh or that could better serve you and your loved ones? The holiday season will come to a close soon, and how and where you store your décor does not have to be a chore. A New Year full of new plans is about to be underway, and there is no better time than now to evaluate your current home storage situation. Transitioning your home for each season can be seamless and comfortable with custom cabinetry and built-ins.

Fabulously Functional

Custom cabinetry and built-in carpentry can be functional and fabulous. Alleviating your home of clutter will encourage productivity and increase energy to enhance the lives of all who dwell in the space. These types of design elements demand attention. Custom made products and furniture mean more, not just to the people who live in the house but for those who visit–not to mention they also increase the value of your home. Having something made especially for you and your family’s needs is the kind of personalization everyone can appreciate and should enjoy.

Showcase what is essential in your life with custom cabinetry. For the kitchen cabinets, it could be your fine china or priceless glassware. In your home office, you could display your collection of books or classic vinyls that help give your interiors personality. Turn what you treasure into a statement piece to be admired.

Two Kinds of Problems

In our experience, we have come across two types of storage problems.

You don’t have as much storage as you would like
The storage available is not working for you as it should

Another side to how and where you keep items tidy could depend on what you use daily versus what you use seasonally. Supplies you and your family utilize daily will need to be easily accessible to where there is little disruption in obtaining them, going about your day, and returning them back to their home. While season décor can be tucked away in a safe place, you won’t need access to every day.

Custom built-ins can add storage to numerous rooms in your home, like your closet or mudroom. They can also make organizing clothing items or other personal articles more visible and accessible. Built-ins can also hide those homey things we know we all use but would instead have tucked away when guests arrive.

Make Your Storage Work For You

Bringing custom cabinetry and built-ins to your home will bring the necessary storage to your kitchen, closets, laundry room, and garage. With these design elements’ versatility, you can convert any space into a functional and soothing retreat. Carve out the space you need and make it work to maximize your home’s square footage for relaxation and entertaining.

Do you have lower cabinets that are a dark deep abyss where you cannot find or easily reach what you are looking for? You can make those deep wells easier to use with custom pullout shelves and drawers. Creative configuration can also improve ease of use around plumbing or support beams while providing effortless living. Can you feel the Zen mood we are creating here?

Change Your Ways

With each change in season comes life anew. Make the transition between the seasons effortless by keeping your belongings things arranged perfectly. Year-round decorating is a breeze with these easy tips. For those larger pieces of furniture and feature items in your home, stay in the neutral zone of color and layer in your décor from there. Having a neutral base to build off of will lend your interiors to all the seasons.

Create a more inviting window seat by placing luxurious pillows and something to read for the next passersby to take a break. If you have a mudroom equipped with cubbies, let your loved ones organize themselves so they can grab and go on their way out the door. If it’s springtime, help them along by keeping their raincoat or rain shoes handy.

For your living room, switch out those dark bulky pillows and throws for items that speak to a lighter and brighter time of year. In the bedroom, remove the cozier blankets for crisp white duvets and linens to keep everyone covered and cool. Replacing curtains and throws to lightweight cotton or linen are quick and easy updates that allow for lighter and breezier air to flow through indoors.

Change the way you see your interiors and especially the storage features of your home. We have the expertise and know-how to make your custom cabinetry and built-ins work for you and your home. Living well in your domain is what it’s all about, after all. Connect with us and let us help you invigorate your interiors with the latest and greatest in storage solutions.

Designing for the Season in the Midst of COVID

Dec 21/in Current Trends, Design 101, Seasonal/by Cristie Schlosser, RID, ASID, NCIDQ

Our goal is always to enhance you and your family’s lifestyle. Here are some design practices you can apply to your day-to-day life or for those special occasions. While COVID has brought its share of challenges, there is a lot to be grateful for this year. It has been a blessing to be able to take a step back from the hustle and bustle and be able to truly reflect on what is most important. Thanks to quarantine and social distancing, we have all come to appreciate what has always been right in front of us. The holiday season is well underway, and we are all still trying to navigate it with health and safety in mind. Traditions may need some modifying, and your checklist may look a little different this year. Remember, the environment you are creating in your home will help you and your loved ones be ready for this joyous time. We have carefully planned and compiled a holiday checklist that incorporates the new health and safety paraments that we hope will help you welcome your company in the most stress-free way.

Not the Same Song and Dance

A holistic design brings peace of mind that helps alleviate the rush that always comes with this time of year. While your overnight guest list may be altered this year, it is still essential to make your guest feel welcome and safe during their stay. Here are a few little reminders that will make the transition easier for everyone.

1. Plan and Plan Some More

Planning, especially this year, goes far beyond the usual cleaning and decorating. There are various hosting options to consider in our new normal, such as, digital meetups or socially distant in-home events. Before your visitors arrive, be sure to discuss the importance of social distancing and the appropriate time to wear a mask ahead of time. This will help keep everyone on the same page and establish the answer to any questions they may have during their stay. Also, it is best to keep your guest list to a minimum this year. I know we all want to gather with those we love and that seem so far away. There are other ways for us to gather, celebrate, and keep everyone healthy and safe.

If you have guests that are still coming home to you, discuss transportation ahead of time. Schedule with them a set times and coordinate rides, so that you can prepare for them upon their arrival.

2. Safety First

Here is a list of go-to items to have ready and waiting. Keep everyone safe but make it fun with personalized or festive masks. This will remove the awkwardness if someone forgets to bring their own. Another good idea is to provide mini sanitizing pouches as welcome gifts. You can conveniently place these in the guest room or on your entryway table. Remember to stay a safe distance from others when possible and if the weather permits, host outdoors. This allows for ample airflow and a nice change of scenery.

If the weather does not permit an outdoor gathering, consider these tips for an in-home socially distant gathering option. For a cozy and safe dining experience, set up two dining tables at least 6 feet apart. This will help keep everyone included and safe. Bring the crisp outdoor air in by opening a window with a screen. The fresh air will keep the circulation in the room fresh and prevent any stuffiness. If it is far too cold out, consider using an air purifier. Anything like this that will help with air quality control will help everyone stay in the holiday spirit in a careful manner. As the host, it is okay for you to ask your guests or family members to wear a mask except while dining. They know as well as you do that everyone is doing their best to keep themselves and everyone around them healthy. To help lighten the load of hosting order take out for you and your guests. If you are like us and you enjoying cooking, set up a buffet, and take turns getting your meals. Once everyone has settled, que that background music and open that special bottle of wine you’ve been saving, and enjoy connecting again.

Lastly, keep washing your hands and avoid touching your face. Be sure that everyone washes their hands before touching the serving utensils. If your guests see that you are dedicating time to make sure your hands are clean, they will follow suit and will make this activity second nature or a conscious habit if it is not already.

Consider what your guests will need during their stay, such as fresh linens and a private space to put their belongings. Your dwelling will be their safe space during their stay. Adding little touches will make them feel more accommodated and right at home. Make your visitor’s stay an enjoyable experience by having your home well-lit with plenty of open outlets for them to charge their mobile devices.

Don’t forget those thoughtful elements that will help to elevate the overall look and feel of your home. The feeling your guests will have as they mingle within your home should provide them a sense of safety and comfort. If you are able to hire a professional cleaning service, this is a huge plus. A deep clean will give your home a fresh new feel. Next, make sure your bathrooms are well equipped. Stock them with plenty of toilet paper, fresh towels, and tissues along with the festive touch of holiday soap. Make hosting a fun and easy for you by keeping your pantry fully stocked to allow you to indulge and celebrate more freely.

3. Show Must Go On

To bring a sense of normalcy to an unforgettable year, decorate as you usually do. Not all traditions require a change when something like COVID comes along. A good way to spread joy and cheer this holiday season is by safely volunteering or donating to your local charities and organizations. A fun activity for you and your family could be to bake your favorite recipes and play games with the little ones. Indulge in nostalgic moments that remind us how blessed we all are.

For example, host a movie night where everyone can tune in, wherever they are, and whatever they feel comfortable in—like those infamous matching pajamas. If gifts are your thing, send them to your loved ones in the in the mail and of course, don’t forget letters or those holiday cards. This is the perfect way to let your favorite people know that no matter the distance, you are thinking of them and they hold a special place in your heart.

4. Virtually Anywhere

Be with your loved ones from virtually anywhere. Keep everyone healthy and safe, by choosing a virtual option to gather that includes everyone. You can send your video conferencing links via email or text and share any itinerary details you’d like your guests to prepare ahead of time. It’s always fun to share recipes for food, drinks, or even cooking together LIVE can shrink the distance. Prizes like digital gift cards can be awarded to the best-looking dish or the most festive cocktail. Adding these little touches, along with other creative virtual party ideas, will help make this new tradition a hit.

We hope this comprehensive checklist of little reminders will help you plan and gather with your holiday visitors safely. There is no right or wrong way to do things this year because it’s 2020. Navigate your environment the best way you know, and the rest will take care of itself.

Have other ideas in mind? Share your tips with us on social media or send us a note. We’d love to hear your creative solutions for hosting a memorable and joyous holiday season!

Defy Convention This Spring

Feb 3/in Current Trends, Seasonal/by Cristie Schlosser, RID, ASID, NCIDQ

Written by Amy Tran

At SDG, we are ecstatic over the refreshing yet rebellious color palette for this spring. In 2014, there is a powerful balance between vivid and fearless hues paired with subdued and calming pastels. Normally these colors are not paired together. They are defying convention, and we are in love.

Eye Pleaser:

This palette includes vibrant yellows and blues, along with the color of the year Radiant Orchid. These are balanced with soft mints, sandy taupes, lazy blues and a hint of pepper with subdued reds and oranges.

Objects of Our Affection:

The Dacey Stool
This fun seat adds sunshine and conversation into any room.
Designed by Arteriors Home

From our pals at Sherwin Williams, we used to Color Visualizer to make these Fun Scenes:

SW 6212 Quietude, SW 6886 Invigorate, SW 6509 Georgian Bay

SW 7620 Seaworthy, SW 6237 Dark Night, SW 7695 Mesa Tan, SW 6615 Peppery

Here is a sample of these new color palettes at play featuring recently designed rooms we just completed for one of our clients. The girls loved their “new looks”!

Not Your Grandmother’s Chantilly

Aug 13/in Current Trends, Seasonal, Traditional, Transitional/by Cristie Schlosser, RID, ASID, NCIDQ

August 2013

written by Amy Tran

This is not your grandmother’s Chantilly; this season lace is a staple. Bedding, wall covering, and rug patterns to dresses, shoes and nail design, retailers are a huge fan in both home décor and women’s apparel. Lace in black or dark colors creates a demure and sultry vibe; white or beige gives lace a crisp innocence that everyone can appreciate.

Hot Design for Keeping Cool

Jul 22/in Current Trends, Mid-Century, Modern Art, Seasonal, Shop, Traditional, Transitional/by Cristie Schlosser, RID, ASID, NCIDQ

Written by Guest Blogger Kayla Harvey

Its summer, its hot, and its not showing signs of stopping. Wouldn’t it be nice to enjoy some cool breezes rather than bake in the sun? If you are trying to beat the heat here are some helpful tips to keep your outdoor spaces cool as the dog days drag on.

1. Green is Cool

Energy efficiency is always a good idea, but in this case literal greenery will help to keep you cool. We all know that shade trees reduce heat, but did you know that grass and other plants can help to keep temperatures regulated in your yard as well?

Take a look at the driveway and patio shown in these images. Concrete and pavement absorb heat and radiate it back long after the sun sets. The use of grass and concrete pavers together helps to limit the amount of water needed as well as reduce heat retention. This creates a more comfortable outdoor space, and happens to be a sharp looking design.

2. Catch the Breeze, Block the Rays

If your outdoor space receives frequent afternoon sun a shaded area is a must. A patio with an overhang provides an excellent opportunity to utilize outdoor curtains. Your best bet for keeping cool is to open up cross ventilation so that you can enjoy the breeze. Be sure to hang the curtains with a bar or wire that allows you to move them as needed. This way you can make the most of the wind while blocking any direct sunlight.

If outdoor curtains are not for you, try this novel planter wall. The wall and plants provide shade, and the slats through the middle will allow air to circulate.

3. Light Up the Night

When the sun goes down so do temperatures, so make the most of your yard with illumination. There are a variety of ways to create outdoor rooms through the use of solar powered light fixtures, outdoor lighting, and even illuminated furniture.

If you are unsure you want to commit to new furniture or lighting try this simple trick to light up your yard. Take oversized balloons filled with air, and just before you tie them off add a small neon glow stick to the inside. These are great tossed into a pool for parties, or if anchored, to line a driveway.

Now that you know these tips, get on out there and enjoy your summer!

The Art of Ikat

Jun 8/in Blogs We Love, Current Trends, Seasonal, Traditional, Transitional/by Cristie Schlosser, RID, ASID, NCIDQ

Contributing Author: Amy Tran

Ranging from hippie chic, to tribal safari to elegant embellishment, Ikat is a highly sought after material due to the time, effort and precision that goes into making it. There are many variations of Ikat, as it has origins in India, Japan and many South East Asian countries. The meaning of the word “Ikat” is “to bind”. The tying and dyeing process is similar to “tie dying”, however the fabric is dyed as it’s woven, creating intricate geometric shapes and patterns. The result is both interesting and exotic. This trend has hit the market hard in the past few years. In both woven and graphic depictions, the “Ikat” continues to populate fashion as well as interiors; trending in dresses, pillows, and accessories – even iphone cases!

Brunschwig & Fils Showroom

“Bayadere” By Brunschwig & Fils

An Indigo Chair

Ikat Robe

Ikat iphone case by Society6

Iman Red & Blue Ikat Decorative Pillow on Etsy

Ikat iphone case by Tory Burch

Flower Power: Layers of Floral Prints

May 10/in Current Trends, Seasonal, Shop/by Cristie Schlosser, RID, ASID, NCIDQ

Keeping with last weeks post, and an homage to the 1960’s flower power motif, we bring you a popular design trend: Layering Bold Floral Patterns. From wallpapers covered in lively, upbeat floral glory to upholstery in loud eccentric buds, these statement floras mix wonderfully with vivid-colored solid counterparts. As we look ahead to Summer 2013, we’re captivated by these magnificent beauties..

1 Jonathan Adler Malmo Wallpaper in Pink & Purple / via Layla Grayce

2 Dory Wall Mirror / via Plantation Design

3 Girly Orange Vintage Chair / via Modern House Insight

4 10-Light Modern Chandelier / Opal / via ABC Carpet & Home

5 Fera Pink Pillow Pair / via Layla Grayce

6 Bright Pink Chair / via Granger Hertzog

7 Curvey Chrysanthemum Vase / via Anthropologie

8 Ogee Pillow / via Trina Turk

Image via Elle Decor France

Image via Pinterest

Candy colored layers of pattern and flower power punch

ABC Carpet & Home / Aquasilk 9’5″x16’3″ Rug

A more subdued, Psychedelic take on the bold Flower Power look

Wallpaper by Amy Butler / Passion Lily / via Layla Grayce

Wallpaper by Amy Butler / Field Poppies / via Layla Grayce

Amy Butler Memento Wallpaper / Image via Layla Grayce

Amy Butler Passion Lily / Image via Layla Grayce

Amy Butler Temple Tulip Wallpaper / Image via Layla Grayce

Jennifer Paganelli Back Bay Orange Blue Embroidered Pillow / via Layla Grayce

Folklore Red Embroidered Pillow / via Layla Grayce

Trina Turk / Multi Floral Pillow

Jonathan Adler Wallpaper Malmo Green & Brown / Image via Layla Grayce

Image via Bennison Fabrics

Image via Layla Grayce

Anchor your pattern mixing with vivid solids.

A Nod To Mod

May 9/in Current Trends, Mid-Century, Seasonal, Uncategorized/by Cristie Schlosser, RID, ASID, NCIDQ

Contributing author: Amy Tran

Glamorous pearls, florals and feminine lines meet funky patterns and bold accents. Inspired by fashion design and ranging from large floral prints to bold stripes and bright eccentric patterns mixed with pastel hues, this new wave of design aesthetic suggests its roots are from Sixties Mod. In 2013, this is a fresh take on the sixties using lavenders, baby blues, mints, and peaches that are anchored by black or white. This design style easily incorporates mid-century pieces with a feminine and youthful twist.

For more inspiration visit our Pinterest Board: A Nod To Mod

Is Faux Fur For You?

May 3/in Seasonal, Shop, Transitional/by Cristie Schlosser, RID, ASID, NCIDQ

Written by guest blogger Kayla

Lets face it, it isn’t for everyone, but for those who do enjoy it faux fur can make quite a statement piece. Not to mention the warmth and just plain ol’ cozy factor it brings. If you are on the fence about bringing faux fur into your home here are a few things to consider.

1. Sustainability – The debate over real vs faux is for another time and place. For the purposes of this article we are only looking into faux. With that in mind it is important to note that the manufacturing process to create this fluffy material is not usually the most eco-friendly. The best bet when considering the environment is to buy recycled or vintage.

2. Durability – Faux fur is a long way away from being a durable material. For this reason take time to think through its application in your home. Do you have young children or pets? It is best to keep this loveably impractical fabric in a place that would be less likely to be chewed, slobbered or spilled upon. Also, consider smaller applications like pillows or throws, because unless you have the magical ability to levitate across rooms a faux fur area rug would undoubtably be a headache to maintain.

3. Aesthetics – When it gets right down to it, do you like it? Your personal style should have just as much say in the debate as the durability factor. So, if you’ve found that faux fur is for you then we hope you find your perfect piece and snuggle right up to it!

Springtime Floral Design

Apr 22/in Seasonal, Traditional, Transitional, Uncategorized/by Cristie Schlosser, RID, ASID, NCIDQ

It’s no doubt that adding a dash of floral to any space can make all the impact! We’ve chosen tulips as our favorite floral this spring. In countless color varieties, these blooms create a natural elegance and ambiance that so beautifully brightens up the room.

via Pinterest

Art-of-floral-design

1 Bright orange varieties in bunches, lined up for an outdoor garden party. A simple, yet elegant presentation.

2 Aqua blue glass adds a touch of bold color against a white backdrop. We just love the aqua-red color combo!

3 White pottery is the perfect accessory to any casual-chic floral arrangement.

4 Stems wrapped in greens in an ombre of purple tones create a lovely linear pattern.

5 The Estella Rijnveld species is a type of tulip identified by it’s fringed edges.

6 Long, thin branches accent this rustic composition.

Earthy Orange Dining Room: Interior Design & Decor by Schlosser Design Group

Orange pops off a dark, contrasting backdrop.

Countless color varieties are available at almost every floral shop during the spring months.

Have a large surface to fill? Want to create the maximum effect? Fill a large mouth vase with many hand fulls of blooms to really captivate your audience.

Don’t be afraid to show off your roots!

Images via Pinterest