For any size home, it can be challenging to elevate an interior with the appropriate furnishings, accents, and overall design elements that feel like they fulfill and support the space without overdoing it. A great place to start are your floors, as they can serve as a base for building and working your way up when selecting other pieces. What you do with your floors can create a significant impact, and that is why we’re breaking things down so you can consider the best flooring selections for your home. We’re outlining three appropriate flooring guides to help you complete a cohesive design for your interiors.

1. Wood Entryway Vs. Tile Entryway

It’s ideal to have your home be impressionable from the moment someone walks in the door. The entryway is the first thing a fresh set of eyes land on, and though it might be a smaller space, it is certainly mighty. The entryway is what sets the tone for the rest of your interior. Flooring takes up much of the entryway, so you may feel pressured on selecting the best option for your home. Do you go with wood or tile? While both have their benefits, it’s important to consider what will fit your unique style, budget, and durability.

Wood is a favorite by many and adds a classic yet warm touch. It’s the choice you go for when you want versatility that can make a home either grand or cozy. With wood flooring you can opt for many types of materials including a classic oak hardwood, maple, or cherry. The finish you would like is something to consider as well. However, wood can be costly and will weather from the effects of foot traffic. Tile floor coverings are much more versatile and allow you to get creative. They can also take a little more of the brunt of an entryway, especially in busy households. You can create a unique, functional, and captivating aesthetic right at the door with different shapes, sizes, and colors of tile!

There are many more options to consider outside of wood or tile, not only for your entryway but also for the rest of your home. Carpet, vinyl, laminate, and stone are some other alternative materials to think about, as well as their varying price points. Vinyl and laminate are more cost-effective and are becoming vastly more popular choices. Stone and quality hardwood are on the other side of the spectrum and bring a taste of luxury that can tie in with the rest of the aesthetic in an interior.

2. Area Rugs and Floor Coverings

Area rugs are the perfect addition to bring style and comfort, no matter what floor covering you choose. You’ll find floor coverings in larger spaces like the living room or a bedroom. You can utilize area rugs as a style piece that can bring a pop of flavor or a functional piece to help ground the space in a particular room.

Before purchasing an area rug, some things to consider are material, pattern versus solid colors, and sizing. Wool brings durability and comfort and is a popular selection for rugs. Synthetic materials, like Nylon, are budget friendly alternatives. While, Jute allows for little maintenance, meaning this is a great option if you have any pets or children. If you’re deciding between color or pattern, an intricately woven material like sisal creates a weave like visual and is a great medium between the two. With numerous colors, sizes, and pattern styles, you can also use area rugs as a luxurious layer to your overall design.

3. Ideas for Runners

Like area rugs, floor runners bring that comfortable carpet feel without overtaking an entire area. Found near narrow spaces, runners are ideal for tying in design elements in unlikely places. Whether it’s in the kitchen, hallway, or on the stairs, a good eye will be able to seamlessly place a runner in its proper home without disrupting the overall aesthetic. If you’re looking for an easy yet impactful way to change up a space, a runner might just be your solution.

With this outline in mind, you’ll be able to start planning and move on to additional interior selections for your home. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and try something new to elevate your space. You can opt for an intricate tile design, or if you’d rather have a luxurious and quality finish, hardwood flooring with an extravagant stair runner will support your exclusive lifestyle. No matter your selection, we hope you’re your SDG-inspired creation is a timeless masterpiece that supports and enhances the environment of your life.

Along with kitchens, bathrooms are one of the most requested remodels, and for good reason – it may be tucked away from immediate view, but it is a highly utilized part of the home that shouldn’t be neglected. Is your bathroom in need of a makeover but you’re not sure where to start? We have you covered with these 5 must haves for a successful bathroom remodel.

1. Vanity

The vanity of your bathroom should be a sight to see. Elevating your bathroom vanity is an excellent way to ignite a major transformation within the space and can help set the tone for the rest of bathroom aesthetic. Whether it’s a powder bath or a primary bath, knowing what style you want to achieve is essential. Floating vanities are a popular modern selection that can create a luxurious, and spacious appeal. Other types include vessel sink vanities where the sink is free-standing on top of the vanity surface and even corner vanities that can be found in half-baths and washroom stations. Custom cabinetry is another way to elevate your bathroom experience by carefully configuring each unit to effortlessly store your essentials. The other parts of the vanity space include the mirror and sink area – all pieces to the puzzle that can be enhanced and tailored to your unique style.

2. Shower

When undergoing a bathroom remodel some have asked the question “Do we want or need the tub?” Choosing a design that does not include a tub allows the space to be utilized in more creative ways. This modern direction brings a sleek, spa-like feel to the bathroom setting. The removal of the bathtub perimeter offers a larger footprint to create some spacious attractions. In the photo above the client opted to include a rain showerhead in addition to the to the standard showerhead and handheld. A rain showerhead gives you a gentle rain over your head and body to help relax you while all three provide for a customizable shower experience. The floor to ceiling shower door adds depth and height to the shower area that opens the area to the rest of the space. Invite more luxury in, by adding shower benches to bring the pampering home to you.

3. Tile Work Design

Reach your bathroom’s full potential by incorporating a variety of design elements. You will only find tile in a handful of places in a residential interior and the bathroom is the perfect place to get creative with the tile placement and design. Intricate accent walls are a great example of how tiles are beautifully put together in form and function. Don’t hesitate to apply a pattern or color with tiles to make your bathroom stand out with a custom design. An accent wall, and even floor tiles are a great way to utilize different materials and layer in color, pattern, and texture to your interior.

4. Space Planning

The easiest way to create luxury is by maximizing your space use in your floor plan. A cluttered and crowded bathroom is certainly not ideal so if there is any way to expand or rearrange, this is the route to follow.

Having a window in the bathroom is another plus as the natural light can really brighten and enlarge the room. This effect can also be created and manipulated with the use of the right lighting and design materials that can reflect a relaxing ambiance back into the rest of the room.

5. Décor

After the placements, selections, and renovations have been made, it’s time to start moving in all the little details that make a world of difference. Add personality and a touch of luxurious flare with the décor you choose to display. A good note to remember is if your towelettes and other toiletries are in view, make sure they are folded and arranged neatly. This can really aid in bringing that flawless touch. Don’t go too overboard with the décor, as minimalist details are best for bathroom spaces. Variations of biophilic design are a useful design trend for bathroom spaces, that encourage the use of greenery and natural elements as holistic additions for living well!

We hope these ideas help guide you on where to start your bathroom remodel. Don’t think of your bathroom as just a bathroom but a getaway for relaxation — it’s where you start and end your day. Make the most of this interior and get creative with making it a one-of-a-kind living experience that will serve you and your family to the fullest!

The holiday season means there will be plenty of opportunities to gather with friends and family. Furniture selections can make a significant impact on your interiors and that’s why we’re here to give you some pointers on selecting furniture fit for entertaining during this busy season while also being sustainable for everyday life.

1. Bar and Counter Stools

Kitchen islands not only give an ample amount of space for food preparation but offer seating space as well. Bar and counter stools optimize your kitchen space by offering extra seating and elevating the flow of your kitchen footprint. They also stand as great accent furniture that can complement the design within the rest of the kitchen. You can opt for sleek, modern, traditional, or extravagant barstool design when styling the island space. The choice of color can also add a subtle touch or make a bold statement. Regardless, this piece of furniture is one to surely catch the eye of anyone who enters the kitchen, so you want to make a strong impression!

Another key entertaining area you can find this type of seating is in front of a wet bar. These convenient nooks are smaller than a kitchen island, and are a luxury to have in your home, especially when it comes to entertaining guests. Though this space won’t usually be of everyday use like the kitchen island, try selecting elevated styles to match the scenery and make the most out of your special occasions.

2. Wall Units

When having guests over in a relaxed living room setting, the TV will probably be on to show the live football game or the latest episode of the most trending drama. Custom and unique wall units are entertainment centers made to be the primary focus. A wall unit is a luxurious furniture piece that is made to have a TV at the center surrounded by personalized décor. This area is significant for living room or sitting room designs so you want to make the right selections that will blend seamlessly while being functional for the space and your guests.

3. Dining Room Buffet and Hutch

To make your dining area even more divine, adding a buffet and hatch furniture piece is a must. This piece has lasted the test of time and continues to be a valuable and essential piece of a formal dining room setting. This furniture has been modified and updated to create a variety of different styles, so make sure to select a complementary piece that will be cohesive with the rest of the dining room style. This furniture selection will surely be of use during dinner parties to serve food and drinks or for storing and displaying the most elegant china sets or chinoiserie.

With the holiday season and the end of the year approaching, it is a great time to consider what things to modify, enhance, or refresh in your home. With these statement furniture sets in mind, we hope you’ve gathered the concept around how to select the right items that will aid you in making the most out of entertaining at home.

Have any unique design ideas that you use in your home when entertaining guests? Make sure to tag us on Facebook or Instagram so we can share your creative solutions!

When some think of a home remodel, they quickly dream up scenes from a home remodel television show where a new project is introduced, renovated, and finished with a big reveal, all under an hour. If only that were the case in real life. When it comes to any remodel within your home, you are taking a big step toward improving your and your family’s lives. That step comes with not only the investment but with dedication and disruption in your day-to-day. These are some of the reasons why many homeowners procrastinate remodels.

There are some remodels we recommend acting on, sooner rather than later, like your kitchen. Your kitchen serves as the heart of your home where people can come to gather, interact, and bond. If you also like to entertain, there is no question that your kitchen must support you and your guests from multiple angles. Which raises the question, when do you know when it is time for a kitchen remodel, and what can you expect during the process? We hope these tips will enlighten and inspire you to take the next step in your kitchen renovation experience.

When is it the right time?

It is important to remember that while a remodel will require a lot on your part, at the end of the day, you will add value to your home, improve its overall function, and allow more appreciation for the space. If you’re struggling with whether now is an ideal time to renovate, here are some key indicators that the time may be now.

1. Staying Put – A kitchen renovation is a major investment and not one to be taken lightly. If you and your family plan on moving in a few years, it would not be the best choice financially for you to invest in a renovation. For those who do plan on staying in their current residence for the foreseeable future, a renovation will be well worth it in the long run.
2. Hard to Function – There are many factors to consider when it comes to the overall flow of a space. When it comes to the flow of your kitchen, your work triangle is the primary focus for efficient use of the square footage and the different touchpoints. When you work with an interior designer, we will help you identify your kitchen work triangle or give clarity as to why your current layout is being hindered and how a rework of the floor plan can improve the flow and function.
3. Time to Upgrade – The reality of appliances is that they are an investment in themselves, and they can sometimes be a hassle to replace. It may seem easier to wait for appliances to break before purchasing new ones. While this sounds like the right thing to do, it is not the best practice long term. If your appliances are hanging on by a thread, utilizing them as if they were brand new can be a dangerous game to play, especially when it comes to your larger appliances like a gas stove, which can leak, or a dated dishwasher which can flood. This is why it is crucial to keep your kitchen appliances working properly to keep everything and everyone safe.
4. The Struggle Is Real – With the holidays just around the corner, your kitchen will become the destination for entertaining even more than usual. An essential part of any get-together entails some sort of food and drink and more bodies in the kitchen at one time. Do you feel crowded already? A lack of storage can be a huge pain point, especially when adding dishes, appliances, and preparation items for plates and beverages. Things can become cluttered and feel overwhelming very quickly. With the help of custom cabinetry and extended counter space, we can help you alleviate any tight situation.
5. Look and Feel Refreshed – Refreshed interiors will improve the way you interact with your surroundings. Stepping into a room that is stylish and beautiful, and functionally sound will not only enhance its visual appeal but will highlight its overall custom design to create a living experience unique to you and your family.

Does any of this sound familiar? Whether you are thinking or actively planning for a kitchen renovation, here are things to expect once you decide to commit to the remodeling process. By sharing these with you, we hope that we can alleviate any apprehensions you may be feeling and prepare you for the journey ahead.

What to Expect

1. Dust and Noise – As hard as we might, dust will happen. During any demolition work or breakdown of cabinetry or tile removal, sheets of dust will fall. We do our best to alleviate this reality and have some ways to prepare. First, we suggest removing as much as you can from the kitchen. For items that can’t be removed, cover them to prevent dust from settling into crevasses that could cause damage or health concerns later.Noise is another guarantee that comes with a kitchen remodel. From saws, sanders, nail guns, and air compressors, the number of noises will depend on the day, but you should always expect some sort of noise no matter where you are in the process. If you have an important phone call, or you need some headspace to concentrate, we recommend planning for an offsite location to be your safe haven in the meantime.
2. Time – Any form of remodeling will take time. With a redesign that requires structures to be demolished and new ones to be installed, it is essential to note that your time will be required. This is another reason why it is important to decide what you need during your project’s planning and design phase and why it is beneficial to work with a designer. We can help you by addressing the right questions upfront and being your liaison during the process to check and double-check that items are being executed appropriately and within budget.Your patience will be tested. There are phases of your project that cannot proceed before the completion of another. This is especially true when it comes to the measurements of countertops, which can’t be executed until the cabinets are installed to ensure everything fits perfectly.Just remember, this process is a significant investment for your home, so it is okay to slow down and take your time to ensure everything is done right the first time. To alleviate any disturbances, it helps outline a new routine and prepare a secondary area for cooking for everyone in the household. Having these in place ahead of time will make the transition seamless so you all can carry on with your day.
3. Delays – We have said it once, and we will say it again, life happens, and so do delays. There is only one way to prepare for delays, and that is to expect the unexpected. If you know, something will happen, and it is just a matter of when you can be better prepared to pivot your plan and your schedule to accommodate for any mishaps. As your design steward, we take great care to make any delays as painless as possible, and when we look back to what started as delays will turn into a creative solution that works out for the better.

Well, you’ve made it. You’ve put in the time, the care, and attention to your kitchen remodel, and now it is time to enjoy with your friends and family! A kitchen remodel can sometimes feel like a roller coaster of emotions, but don’t let that stop you from making the commitment. We can help you navigate the process with confidence and preparation to a beautiful space complete with everything you’ve ever imagined.

Maintaining a holistic approach for mindful designs comes with beauty and balance that is key to almost everything in our lives. Well thought out interiors have a different degree of harmony that makes them timeless and adaptable to support us and our families. With these five design elements, you’ll be able to dictate the energy and balance to help your home flow naturally.

1. Stability/Usability

Stability provides us with a certain level of confidence you get when we feel accomplished and prepared for the day. This can be in reference to your career or the stability of your personal life, where you feel like everything is in order and functioning as it should. You can achieve stability within your home by using warm colors similar to those found in nature, like warm browns, vibrant yellows, and a mix of reds or oranges. Incorporating secure shapes is another way to reinforce stability in your interiors with shapes that mimic a square like tiles, bricks, or cabinetry.

Great storage solutions in the form of custom cabinetry are a fantastic way to bring stability and ease of use to your everyday activities. This type of organization aligns each compartment with excellent storage and functionality with little to no effort from you. Tasks like wrapping gifts can be fun and efficient with long drawers for wrapping paper storage, while drawers with plugs can be handy for charging all your hair care tools. Keeping everything orderly and sound will instantly bring balance to any room of your home.

2. Art

Incorporating art in your interiors can serve as fuel for your spirit and bridge the gap between you and the industriousness of our forever-changing world. A room without art can feel dull or bare, affecting the way you interact within the space. Art can also help drive creativity and make us feel inspired to do things differently, like cooking a fantastic meal or tucking away for an afternoon to read your favorite book. Bring your style and personality to your home with some of your favorite works of art that are meaningful to you.

3. Window Treatments

Most of the time, we ask our windows to do contradictory things. We want to be able to see the beautiful views outside, but we also want to maintain our privacy. An excellent way to have the best of both worlds is to utilize window treatments. They help us regulate the amount of light and exposure allowed in a space, but they also help soften the aesthetics of a room and complete the overall look. Depending on the rest of the interiors in your home and your style of windows, you may be interested in using curtains and a valance or something more modern like a roman shade. Treating your windows as the frames of your pictures will make sure that they protect what is inside but also allow you to enjoy the view.

4. Texture

Textural elements bring this idea of optimism or renewal. If an entire room is designed with manufactured, perfectly smooth, or shiny objects, it can feel cold or not livable. As human beings, we naturally feel how our surroundings make us feel. By incorporating pieces with texture like a cozy throw, a natural wood table, or better yet, a plant, you can help support your positive energy and give the room a little more warmth and depth. This support can nurture you and your family to live a more balanced and enriched life.

5. Find the Right Lighting

Lighting can make a significant difference in the way we go about our day in our homes. Having the right light in the suitable space is what keeps us moving or makes us slow down. When bright task lighting is used you can feel an energy that is bread on productivity and that sense of accomplishment. While spaces that have dimmed, minimal lighting can help you ease your mind for the evening hours where your to-do list stops and your thoughts turn off. The effect of illumination significantly impacts our overall psyche and can help change our overall outlook on life.

Thoughtful interiors go beyond what is beautiful and serve us differently. By implementing these design elements in every room, you will be able to bring you and your family a well-balanced environment that flows and functions effortlessly. If you or someone you know needs a mid-year refresh, give us a call. We would love to bring balance to your life and your home.