Bedroom Ideas for the Modern Bedroom

Master Bedroom By Paula Interiors

We all know how important a good night’s sleep is and set up an environment that’s conducive to sleeping well and awakening refreshed can help attain that goal. When we’re looking for bedroom ideas, it’s important to consider what type of rooms we’re drawn to. For those who thrive in sleek, uncluttered interior spaces, the stylish look of a modern bedroom may work well. 

Window Treatments

Full Master Bedroom by Paula Interiors

In a modern bedroom, window treatments that work best are those that feel like part of the room’s background such as shades, blinds, drapery panels, or sheers that are all functional but look great.

Furniture

 Keep furniture simple and to a minimum so as not to crowd the space. Modern means plenty of room to move around. Choose a bed that features straight lines and simple features. Even a padded headboard can be gorgeous but not overdone.

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 When it comes to bedroom ideas, nightstands should be considered an essential not an extra, though here again stick to a design that has uncluttered lines. You’ll also need a storage piece with drawers (that storage may find a home in the closet if bedroom space is limited.) Comfortable seating with a side table nearby for drinks, and such are also “must-haves.

Area Rugs

Master bedroom Designed by Paula Interiors

 If your room allows, the ideal spot for an area rug is at the foot of the bed with the footboard or legs of the bed frame resting atop the rug. An area rug is another way to infuse color into a modern bedroom. The rug can be a single color or a mix of beautiful bold hues. Geometric patterns and straight lines look great in a modern, uncluttered space

Lighting

A modern bedroom (any bedroom really) needs a chandelier with a simple design or a ceiling fan if the room needs more airflow. Bedside lamps are also a necessity if you read in bed and for finding things in the dark.

Artwork

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 Large scale wall art can be an excellent choice for modern bedrooms. A single large piece or two can give you that clean, uncluttered look you’re aiming for. A collection of smaller framed art may seem too busy. Wall art can also be used to infuse color into the space.

Bedding

For that clean, simple appearance, bedding is best when it’s more tailored. It can be luxurious without the frills and fluff. Comfort is the goal, but with an awesome stylish look. If you want to add toss pillows or shams, choose plain rectangles or squares without excess trim. Add color with a throw in a lightweight knit or soft fabric. That should give you the s handsome look you wish for.

Extras

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Decorative accessories can be kept to a minimum while adding finishing touches to your modern bedroom’s decor and at the same time satisfying your need for order. Extras can also include necessities like a tray with beautiful water carafe with simple lines, along with drinking glasses. Sure, such a tray may look good, but it also serves a very functional purpose.

We hope these tips will help you create your ideal bedroom, one that offers both beautiful form and great functionality with a nod to your love of an orderly life. Have fun exploring modern style bedroom ideas.

 We would love to help you create a beautiful, functional, and comfortable home. Find out more about our services on our website by contacting us today!

Talk to you soon,

Paula

 

 

Pure Bliss: Bathroom Decor for Your Modern Bath

 Once you’ve laid a spectacular foundation for your modern spa-like bath with flooring, fixtures and faucets, bathtub or shower surround, and of course lighting and much more. Then it’s time to add the finishing touches with amazing bathroom décor.

Neutral bathroom. Paula Interior Project

To give you inspiration for this final chapter in your redesign or new bathroom design, we’ve curated blissful ideas to get you started below. 

Fresh Flowers

An arrangement of fresh flowers and greenery can add to the serenity of the bath as well as add an infusion of color. Whether large or small (as best suits the size of your space) living plants enhance a room’s natural environment. 

Wall Art

Art in the Bathroom. Paula Interiors Projects

Today’s modern bathrooms offer the perfect opportunity to showcase large colorful art, but there are lots of spots for smaller paintings or groupings. Choose carefully--only install artwork that can live happily in a sometimes-steamy environment.

Wallpaper in the bathroom. Paula Interiors Projects

Countertop Accessories

In the modern bath, less is indeed more. Choose wisely here. Don’t clutter the countertop. It’s valuable real estate you don’t want to waste. A good rule to go by is each piece should serve a useful purpose or contribute to a visually interesting space.

Guest Towels

Hand or guest towels are one of those functional items that can add both color and texture to your bathroom décor. Other towels should either be at the ready behind vanity doors or find a place on a bathroom shelf. For a spa inspired bathroom we’ll always be partial to pure white fluffy towels.

Soaps

Another of those functional items that can add color and texture to the bath is something that might be considered mundane. Liquid hand soap is available in an array of appealing colors and containers that range from simple glass bottles to spectacular crystal ones. Bar soap has reached a whole new level. You’ll find bars in endless colors and textures, many hand-poured and wrapped in gorgeous papers. One bar or several, wrapped or unwrapped, scented or unscented; these soaps can add that special touch to your bath.

 Accent Rugs

To bring a touch of color and pop of pattern to the bathroom, choose an accent rug in a design that makes your heart beat just a bit faster. We especially love the look of antique motif hand-knotted rugs in vibrant colors of blue, pink, orange, green and yellow. 

These are just a few of the many bathroom décor ideas that can ultimately help turn a beautiful modern, sleek space into an inviting getaway--a space the melds form and function to create one perfect whole.

 We can help make your dream bath a reality. We would love to help you create a beautiful, functional, and comfortable home. Find out more about our services on our website by contacting us today!

Talk to you soon,

Paula

 

Interior Designer Insider: Small Living Room Decorating Ideas

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Whether a micro-apartment in the city or a tiny home in the mountains, small space living has never been more popular. While you may not opt for the least amount of square feet possible like those mentioned above, you may, however, be faced with decorating a smallish space of your own. 

Small living rooms offer a myriad of opportunities to exercise a lot of creativity and individualism. You can transform less than optimal size spaces into beautiful, comfortable, and functional rooms for everyday living and entertaining family and friends. Ideally, small living room design will incorporate decorating ideas that include:

Multi-Functional Furniture

In small living rooms, furniture that meets multiple needs is essential. Examples include ottomans and coffee tables that have built-in storage and nesting tables that can be used as end tables and trays for buffet dining.

Seamless Functionality

A smooth flow of traffic, proper lighting, and comfortable seating placed within easy reach of tabletops for resting food and drinks make for an inviting gathering place. Great function and comfort are just as important as beauty when designing your living space.

Big Beautiful Wall Art

Large paintings and galleries of framed art add visual interest and when done right can make a small space appear larger.

Portable Furniture

Pieces that can be moved about your living room with ease is essential to its function. Armless upholstered chairs on castors and small ottomans that can be moved into the living room for extra seating are great examples of easy moveable furniture.

Area rugs

Whether you choose antique, contemporary, or eclectic, these versatile floor coverings can bring expressive life to small living rooms with hard flooring.

Strategic Furniture Placement

Configuration of seating to encourage conversation, as well as to emphasize the room's focal point, perhaps a fireplace, are ways to enhance a small living room's design with thoughtful furniture placement.

While a small living room or square-foot challenged house doesn't seem like a large enough project to retain the services of a designer, we beg to differ. We would love to help you create a beautiful, functional, and comfortable home. Find out more about our services on our website by contacting us today!

Talk to you soon,

Paula

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Do I Need an Interior Designer? 7 Reasons Why You Do

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When faced with designing a new home or redecorating an existing space, many people consider hiring an interior designer is a luxury, not a necessity. However, there are so many reasons why hiring a professional designer should not be considered an extravagance, but rather, a wise investment that saves money.  

The financial aspect aside, an interior designer, with your desires and requirements in mind, will help you achieve a home you will love living and entertaining in. Not only will high aesthetics be yours, but a welcoming interior with all the creature comforts and details you never knew you needed or were even possible!

Still not convinced you need to hire an interior designer? You'll find a myriad of reasons and benefits of why you need an interior designer to create the inviting, well-appointed spaces you deserve.

Interior Designer .pngDo I Need an Interior Designer? 7 Reasons Why You Do

1.    Get the look you want the first time

When you hire a professional, the collaborative design process creates an environment reflecting each client's style.  Many homeowners who tackle do-it-yourself design projects fail to achieve the results they hoped for.  An interior designerwith years of education and experience can help you attain the look you've dreamed of. You will get it right the first time when engaging the services of a designer. 

2.    Work with Existing Furnishings

A designer can access your room and come up with pieces to fit with many of the items you already have. Have a few heirloom pieces and favorite found objects? No problem, an inventive interior designer can create a whole room around them to make them a focal point. Interior designersare often faced with clients who have lived for decades and collected many items they wish to keep, but simply want to freshen the look and feel or a room or require new furniture as existing pieces have aged or gone out of style. 

Of course, they will also let you know if something you already have isn’t in your best interest to keep whether it is not in keeping with the style you want to achieve, or it inhibits the functionality of your space. 

3. Avoid dangerous mistakes

Without expertise, many mistakes can be made, and some may even lead to hazardous living situations. For example, installing a high-polished marble tile in your bathroom creates such a slippery surface when wet a terrible fall may occur. Sometimes we don't have the experience required to understand the outcome of some of our initial choices. It may look fabulous but be dangerous. A professional designer could have offered creative solutions for obtaining that high-polished look without the danger.

4.   Skip costly mistakes

Often, we meet with new clients where the entire contents of their home make them unhappy. For example, they may have bought living room furniture that isn't what they wanted or needed to suit their space and uses. So, then they by decorative accessories to cover up the aesthetic or provide comfort the living suite doesn't. When it doesn't quite do the job, they might buy a piece of art or other pieces of furniture in hopes of making the room work without success. 

They are not pleased with the outcome and regret having invested so much in furnishings that do not speak to their style. They don't want to spend more money, so they must live in a home that doesn't make them happy or spend even more to get the look they were trying to achieve in the first place. Hiring a designer could have avoided this unfortunate situation. 

5.    Access latest trends and technology

Designers make it their job to stay on top of the latest trends and technology. Smart home technology, high-end kitchen/bath trends, and sustainable design are but a few of the many trends on designer's radar right now.  There are intensive and simple advances that can make a big difference in people's day-to-day lives. A professional would know about these things, but often the average person would not.

6.  Obtain exclusive goods and services

Interior designershave tons of resources and libraries of goods they have access to that the retail customer often do not. From the finest fabrics to high-end case goods at sometimes discounted prices, designers know where to find the best products at the most cost-effective price points. The have developed extensive networks for each phase and room of a project and will choose those that lasting and efficient. Retaining a designer will give you insider superpowers when furnishing your home. 

7.   Have a Stress-Free Enjoyable Experience

Attempting a do-it-yourself design project can be very time consuming and stressful. Not only does it require a lot of time and effort, but it can also cause conflicts with family members who have different styles or ideas of how things should function. 

Hiring a professional designer allows you to continue to live your life while getting a design that you love. Designers are also equipped to work through conflicts among family members to find solutions that make everyone happy. These solutions could also include planning for an aging parent that might live in the home or finding creative ways to help ease some stress for a family with young children and several pets.

A designer acts as a project manager, taking the everyday details of a new home build or redesign on so you can relax and enjoy the fruits of their labor. From coordinating a tile install to purchasing wallpaper, an interior designerbecomes your partner in handling all the to-dos you would have had to handle on your own otherwise. 

Most people would never try to build a house on their own – they would hire an architect and a builder. The same goes for hiring electricians and plumbers – experts in their fields. Hiring a professional designer should be no different. We would love to help you create a beautiful, functional, and comfortable home. Find out more about our services on our website by contacting us today!

 

Elements for an Eye-Catching Nursery Decor

Designed by Paula Interiors

Move over gender-neutral yellows, pastel pinks, and soft-hued blues, today’s contemporary nurseries are all about eye-catching color, bold pattern, and magical metallics! When decorating baby’s first room, you’ll find exciting new possibilities beyond past trends and typical furnishings to spark your little one’s (and yours) imagination and creativity. 

Based on our latest nursery design shown in the images below, we’ve curated a collection of essential elements to make your baby’s nursery visually stimulating and fun.

Go Bold Palettes

Beyond the typical toddler room canvas of bright primary colors, bold palettes can be achieved using warm secondary and intermediate colors such as yellow, orange, fuchsia with touches of cool blue, green, and grey. 

Nursery Gold Accents

Opting for walls painted in white or eggshell can leave many possibilities for pops of color and pattern to be introduced on bedding, upholstery, floor coverings, and even a wallpapered feature wall.  

Big Beautiful Botanicals 

Go ahead, introduce those big blooms and fanciful flora you love in the rest of the home into baby’s space. Whether you choose a dynamic wallpaper background for behind the crib as shown in our nursery design or a floral motif bursting with blooms on the bedding or rug, you and your little one will adore the beauty of oversize botanical prints.

Plenty of Pattern

Despite what you may think as a hard rule of thumb, don’t be afraid to mix two or three patterns for a layered look. Our nursery boasts an all-over circle pattern on the rug, and blooming vine patterned wallpaper. But you can alternately add patterns in smaller amounts on toss pillows, bedding, or drapes.

Art for babies

However, when mixing pattern, be sure to include broad swaths of solid neutral elements such as window treatments and upholstery. Too much pattern can be chaotic and busy, creating a sense of confusion and overstimulation. 

Magical Metallics

Contemporary and modern nurseries beg for gleaming touches of brass, gold or silver. Metallic finishes on lighting, accessories, and furniture hardware will provide just the right amount of sparkle for a bit of magic. 

Metallic touches in our nursery design are introduced through modern brass floor lamp, light fixture, accent table, and the objets d’art perched on the dresser shown here. 

Wondrous Wall Art

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Inspire baby’s creativity with adventurous artwork such as those we hung above the nursery chair here. From magical unicorns to preening peacocks, there is a wondrous world of art just waiting to enchant your child. Modern abstracts and lively landscapes can also add captivating color and unusual shapes to enhance your baby’s play and learning time. 

If you are inspired with the nursery ideas shared here but feeling a bit overwhelmed and not sure where to get started. Look no further for an interior designer in Chicago to help design a beautiful nursery for your little one. Enchanting and eye-catching nurseries like the one featured here are one of our favorite projects. We can help design, furnish, and decorate your baby’s space beautifully. Click here to book a consultation today.

Talk to you soon,

Paula



Art at the center of interior decor

The picture of a Victorian-era sitting room shows almost every horizontal surface covered with tiny photos, knickknacks or a variety of other pieces. The walls host an abundance of hanging art, tapestries and intricate needlework samplers. Art is at the center of the finest of rooms.

This technique, called "display technique" is a hallmark of Victorian design and is a wonderful example of the "form follows function" concept. These pieces were conversation-starters, almost there for entertainment; making for more personalized living spaces.

Today, our design aesthetic suggests fewer things; knick-knacks are considered passé, and for many, too much "stuff" is undesirable as it creates a sense of turmoil that reduces the sense of calm that we seek to enjoy in our home.

But we still crave visual stimulation; we still enjoy the memories that a photo can bring or the sense of tranquility that a piece of art may invoke. A piece of art, or photography may become the inspiration for a certain color scheme in a room or even the whole house.

In the current era as in the past, interior decor requires a thorough evaluation of every piece in each room of a home. Items picked have a special meaning for us, they can even cause an emotional reaction in us. We cherish authentic decor that will make our homes stand out.  Like the Victorians, we want the objects in our homes to stimulate conversation and become the "anchor element" in the room. 

 So, what are the advantages of buying original art? Owning an original piece of art, particularly if the artist has become better known since the purchase, can provide a sense of status, and an increase in the value of the piece is an attractive benefit, too. But, as with other types of investments, there is no guarantee that the value will increase in the future. 

 Original art means that the artist controlled the production process of the one-of-a-kind piece. It no longer means the artist actually made the piece, for example when you buy giclée’s or photography. It means that the piece is signed and numbered by the artist even when there might be other similar pieces available for purchase.

Consider buying art as a personal expression that can reflect your personality, style and taste. Art can inspire you to look at the world in a different way, lift your mood, and in some cases make you feel like you've been taken "away" to another time and place.  Buying art also supports artists, allowing them to expand their craft and further their vision, which in turn can help improve the quality and esthetic of our surroundings. 

 We want our homes to be unique and art is the final expression that will take us there.

 Here's to incorporating more art in our homes. Giver me a call so we can find the best piece for you and your home.

Talk to you soon,


Paula R

 

Paula Interiors Project

Paula Interiors Project

Paula Interiors Project

Paula Interiors Project

Paula Interiors Project

Take your room from good to spectacular!

OSBORNE & LITTLE

OSBORNE & LITTLE

If we agree that the touchstone word for the year is 'comfort,' you may wonder how wallpaper -- which is undergoing a BIG renaissance -- fits into this. It's a perfect pairing because the new wallpapers are beautiful to look at, some so textured you just have to touch, and some so life-like in their botanical representations you think you are sitting in a sunroom.

This isn't your Grannie's wallpaper, Dorothy. These papers are thick of substance and just full to bursting with vibrant color in some, and subtle mood enhancing colors in others. And sometimes large repeats -- so there is no skimping on yardage, here, or you could be in trouble as big as the repeat itself. ( 35-40 inches isn't unusual.)

Who doesn't remember the iconic hallways of the Beverly Hills Hotel? That big, marvelous, blousy palm print  ( called Martinique)  which was designed for the hotel in 1949 is still on the walls.
"Now after nearly 80 years with nary an update, the paper's manufacturer, CW Stockwell, is releasing an entirely new collection based on the iconic print, bringing the pattern into the modern day while paying homage to its roots."

And who hasn't marveled at the subtle finesse of the Morris prints  "Bird and Pomegranate", "Compton", or "Acanthus" which originate from the 1870's?
These classic papers are still available, some with new tweaks. CW Stockwell, for example, is adjusting backgrounds and refining colors to suit today's design aesthetic better.

MARTINIQUE - BEVERLY HILLS HOTEL

MARTINIQUE - BEVERLY HILLS HOTEL

MORRIS & CO

MORRIS & CO

CW STOCKWELL

CW STOCKWELL

PAULA INTERIORS PROJECT

PAULA INTERIORS PROJECT

But the new papers are also full of textures. Grasscloth works across most design styles. Working with a designer to find the perfect backdrop for your room's style will ensure that the look and feel of your room matches your vision.

We all remember, too, the trays of sticky, murky water, the "discussions" between the people actually doing the work and all prefaced by the hours of steaming and scraping the old paper off the walls. New papers go up easily, come down easily, and some are reusable --  all of which means that homeownership doesn't limit where these papers can contribute to a design style. 

And contribute, they do. In fact, they can be the boss of the design style;  Martinique, for example, sets the tone for a room and anything in that room better measure up.   We said "comfort" is the word for the year. Let's add to that if you step outside your comfort level, just a bit, and do even one wall in 'spectacular.'

Talk to you soon,

Paula R  

 

 

Why You Should Consider Custom Furniture

The furniture you choose can have a huge impact on any room design. Whether you live in a tiny condo or a large home, a custom piece of furniture is an excellent way to personalize your space. It’s also sometimes the only way to get exactly what you want.

CENTURY FURNITURE

CENTURY FURNITURE

Custom Furniture Fits

Designing for smaller or oddly-shaped spaces is difficult, especially if you are relying on traditional mass-produced furniture pieces. When you buy a custom piece, you can have it made to fit the space that you live in. While traditional furniture can be modified, it’s often less expensive to have the piece made for your space from the beginning - something that many homeowners find quite surprising.

And it’s not just size. It’s often hard to find a mass-produced piece that exactly fits your vision of a space. Usually something is always just a bit off; whether it’s the materials, the color, or the size, it can be hard to find a traditional piece that is just right for what you want.

Versatility

Custom furniture is very versatile. Need some extra storage? Have a custom bench, ottoman, or even sofa made. Extra storage can be incorporated right into the piece. Need a bookshelf that features a few adjustable vertical shelves? A custom furniture maker can do that for you. It’s a great way to ensure you get exactly what you need.

BAKER

BAKER

Quality

Custom furniture is often much higher quality than mass-produced features. Because your piece isn’t being made on an assembly line, the maker can create your piece out of whatever materials you choose - including higher quality materials than you’d normally find in a furniture factory. Of course, higher quality materials also means that your custom furniture will last much longer than a piece that’s been mass-produced in a factory - which brings us to our next point.

Value

One thing that trips many people up when they’re shopping for custom furniture is the cost. While the initial price can sometimes cause a bit of sticker shock, this can always be lowered based on the materials you choose. It’s also very important to remember the value that you’re getting. When you order a custom-made piece of furniture, you’re getting exactly what you want and expect. You’ll get to choose the dimensions, shape, features, and even materials that your piece is made from. So, yes - it may initially be more expensive than a mass-produced piece of furniture, but it will also carry more value. It will be made exactly for you and the space you’re creating.

So the next time that you’re looking for the perfect piece to fit your newly-designed living room or bedroom, consider ordering some custom furniture instead. Not only will you be pleasantly surprise at the many options available to you, you’ll be happy with the quality and value that you’ll get as well. A custom-made piece is something you can keep for years - and there’s nothing quite like seeing something that was made especially for you and your space every day.

Talk to you soon,

Paula R





Color and Furniture trends for 2019

If we had to pick one word to exemplify the paint and furniture trends for 2019, it would be 'Comfort.' Not the down-home but upscale comfort of the Modern Farmhouse, instead this comfort is personified by beautiful fabrics begging to be touched, easy-on-the-eye paint colors, and gently curving forms in the furniture. 

Walls have color again

BENJAMIN MOORE - GREY METROPOLITAN AF-690

BENJAMIN MOORE - GREY METROPOLITAN AF-690

Wall color trends suggest bolder but still muted hues than we have seen in the past few years, and we will see softer pastels in some of the private areas of our homes. Pink has morphed into blush, for example. Subtle warm colors prevail; the cool blue-grays of the gray trend are at the end of their ten-year cycle.

 From Pantone's Living Coral at one end of the color forecast continuum for 2019 to Benjamin Moore's cool gray Metropolitan, the color palette we will see is varied, and there is a color here to compliment all the moods, styles, and auras we are creating in our homes. 

Jewel tones  - green and navy in particular -- co-exits beautifully with the soft muted colors because they are all the colors of nature -- almost any color combination from Mother Nature works. 
Wood colors are following the trend with lighter, more natural finishes. Natural walnut, for example, is a warm-blooded mid-to-lighter-toned wood. Use it on floors, in furniture, and in curtain rods.

The softer side of furniture

INTERLUDE

INTERLUDE

With the urge to get cozy, stay warm and safe and snuggle in, furniture trends for 2019 reflect this ease of living, but with a luxurious twist. Curved edges, soft tufting, concave sofa fronts and slightly over-stuffed cushions invite lingering; they encourage us to take time for ourselves.  

Because our living spaces are tending to smaller rather than larger, acrylic coffee tables, side tables, and chairs add the needed function while keeping the visual impact low -- helping support and reaffirm the 'less is more' credo of today's decorating.  

Furniture is smaller in scale, overall, to fit better in these more compact spaces, but always with an eye first to comfort. We won't be seeing  'beautiful to look at but uncomfortable to sit on' furniture this year. Even the tufted backs of the new traditional sofas invite lingering -- in part due to the exceptional hand and allure of today's velvets and chenniles.

Just remember that one word: 'Comfort.'

Talk to you soon,

Paula R




 





6 Easy Kitchen Updates That Make a Huge Difference

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After

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Tell someone you’re updating your kitchen, and you’ll likely be met with shocked stares. Many people are intimidated by the idea of a kitchen renovation. It tends to conjure up images of endless construction, constant mess, and weeks or months of take-out dinners. But making a change in your kitchen doesn’t have to be a long, drawn-out process. In fact, you might be surprised at how much of a difference some small, easy changes can make.

1.Install a Backsplash: One of the easiest changes you can make in your kitchen can also make the biggest difference. Installing a backsplash not only creates a great focal point; it lets you express your unique style and personality as well. Whether you choose subway tile for a clean, modern look, or a colorful mosaic of tile, a custom backsplash can change the entire feel of your kitchen.

2.Remove Your Cabinet Doors: Removing your cabinet doors to create open shelving is an excellent way to lighten a heavy-feeling kitchen. In a smaller space, remove only one or two cabinet doors, and use the space to showcase eclectic, attractive, and colorful pieces that you love. Dishes, attractive glassware, and even dry goods stored in attractive glass jars all make excellent displays for open cabinets.

3.Replace Your Countertops: This change is easier and less expensive than you think. Swapping older stone countertops for new marble or quartz countertops are an excellent way to update your kitchen. For a few hundred dollars, this one small change can completely transform your kitchen - making even the most ordinary kitchen space into something you’ll want to show off.

4.Swap Out Your Hardware: Sometimes all it takes to change the look of your kitchen is a hardware update. Swap out outdated drawer pulls and cabinet knobs to give your kitchen a fresher look. Not quite enough? Consider painting your cabinets to really change the feel of your space.

5.Accessorize With Small Appliances: Toasters, stand mixers, and many other small kitchen appliances aren’t just functional must-haves. Many of these gadgets come in bright colors or with fun designs. Swapping out your old, dull pieces for newer, more fun gadgets can be a great way to show off your personality and sense of style.

6.Update your fabrics: This can be one of the best ways to change the feel of your kitchen. Hanging new window treatments, a rug in front of the sink, and swapping out your tablecloth or placemats can really change the look of your kitchen. The best part? It’s easy to rotate through various looks as often as you like!

For many families, the kitchen is the heart of the home. If it’s out of sync with your style, the whole house can feel off. Luckily, changing the feel of your kitchen doesn’t have to be difficult. With just a few small changes, you can update your space and create a kitchen that you’ll love to cook in.

Lets start creating,

Paula R

 

The Hidden Mystery Behind Martini Tables

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Martini tables are small nonetheless convenient. You can move these from corner to corner in your living room when you need it the most.  These tables are so light that you can pick a table with your left hand and hold a drink in your right.

You can place them between two chairs, at the end of a sofa, or even group them and create an interesting arrangement when you aren’t using them much. 

Beside their weigh, they come in different shapes, colors, materials and styles. From sleek to sculptural, traditional to modern, from wood to glass and from black to white. Martini tables are a great addition to your living area. Now, do you want to get one but aren’t sure what to get? 

Call me, I can help you choosing the one

Talk to you soon,


Paula R

A chair for any design Style

The wingback chair is known for its graceful design and comfort. They were first introduced in the 17th century in England and since then it has transformed and modernized. It was first designed to be sat in front of fireplaces, the wings protect us from drafts while keeping us warm.

Although the main features of the wingback chair haven’t changed, the designers are tweaking the curvy silhouette with new materials and updating the legs. Now you can find them in a variety of colors and styles.

These chairs are surprisingly versatile and so comfortable that you can place them anywhere you want to curl up, relax and stay a while. They are a great add-on to your dining room, office, seating areas, bedrooms, in front of fireplaces and living areas. If you need help finding the perfect one for your home just send me a note!

Talk to you soon, Paula 

High-end vs. mass-produce

When buying a good piece of furniture you should ask your self: How long do I want this piece to last? A year? Five years? Do I want to replace it in maybe 10 years? Or, do I want this piece to last a lifetime?

 If you are in the “long last” category, a good, high-end piece can last for about 10 years or more. These pieces are made with certified wood species, multiple layers of veneer, solid wood edges and water proof glues that can be refinish up to 7 times. 

The process of making high-end quality pieces starts with carefully selecting the materials and the superiority of the construction. High-end manufactures will carefully cut each piece to make each individual part of your custom piece. Each part of wood will be sanded many times to allow the finish to be absorb more equally creating a beautiful finish. The finishes are built in the piece though transparent tinted finishes that are sealed and sanded in between. It takes up to 18 steps and three coats of lacquer to complete the process. The result, is a piece that is beautifully and carefully crafted, a piece of art made to last a lifetime.  

But if your plans for the future are uncertain and you rather a piece that lasts only a year or two max, you’ll probably would want to save some money and buy a mass-produce piece.  

Low-end products are made of particleboard with a single layer of veneer made of paper, printed wood or wood grain veneer. On the edges a veneer band its applied, so they don’t have a solid wood for edges and joints. Sanding is a labor-intensive process therefore low end products cut this process making the pieces brown painted finish that disguise the wood grain underneath. Most of the time the pieces are only offer in one or two finishes. Lower pricing furniture most of the time has only 3- 5 steps to complete the finish process. The result a piece of furniture that will work in your space for a while but you will find yourself buying a replacement very soon.

I know, maybe you want the high-end piece, but you think it’s not in your price range. Well, let me tell you that I have great news for you! I work with manufactures that are in the middle range pricing. They can give you the quality and a custom look you want for a very affordable price. These pieces won’t last a lifetime but they are made to last five years or more depending on the use.

So, are you ready to get that piece of furniture you’ve being wanted for long but don’t want to head to IKEA?! Call me and I can help you select the perfect piece for you, one that fits your budget and your lifestyle.

 


Talk to you soon,     

Paula


(Pieces available for purchase)

 

 

Sofa Tables... One of the most important pieces in your home.

Lets talk about the history and relevance of sofa tables. One of the most important pieces in your home. Sofa tables became a fundamental piece of furniture in most stylish homes in Europe and USA between the 18th and 19th centuries.  Sofa tables were used as writing desks because of their many built-in drawers allowing people to storage and keep their pens, ink and papers all in one place.

Today sofa tables are way more versatile than back then. They can be moved from room to room playing a different purpose in both decorative and functionality. We used them in open floor plan areas as room dividers, in dining rooms to create a feeling of openness or wherever the space doesn’t allow for a regular buffet table…

In entryways, they function as a great furniture piece to place your gloves, keys and mail. 

In family rooms or small living rooms they are a perfect piece of furniture to store stools, ottomans, toys or blankets. And when having guests at home, sofa tables add an extra table seating that is accessible and easy to use. Sizes, styles and colors in sofa tables vary so you can select one that fits your needs and style. 

Give me a call and I can help you finding “the one” that is functional and beautiful for you and your home.

 

Talk to you soon,

 

Paula 

 

 

More than Bed Time!

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The master bedroom is one of the most important rooms in your home. It should be your personal haven, a space where you can create anything you desire. A private cinema, a place where you can listen to your favorite music, a cozy corner where you can relax, read a book and take a break from life. 

To create the proper master suite setting; comfort should be at the top of the list. An acquisition of a great bed should be a priority since this piece will drive the style of the room. From wood beds to upholstered headboards.

Lighting is another important piece in your room. If you like to read in bed it is important to select a task lamp which is both functional and decorative.

A proper haven requires the perfect wall color and texture. Everyone interprets color differently.For some, red is soothing and comforting. For others, a neutral cream can be luxurious.You spend a lot of time in this room. Make it cozy.

Make it fun! Make it a space that complements you. Make it personal! Call me and I can help you design the perfect space for you, one that fits your budget and your lifestyle.

 

Talk to you soon,

Paula

(Pieces available for purchase)

Looking to add art to your walls?

Adding art to your home décor will enhance your room and will definitely showcase your personality. Here are some tips that will make the process stress-free:

1.    The wall. Pick the wall you want to enrich. Look at your furniture, accessories, rugs that are around and select the wall that needs an extra touch. Make sure the piece you are going to bring relates to your current items. No need to replicate the existing color pallet but make sure you have at least one of this colors in the painting.

2.    Orientation. Carefully look at your walls and think about what it will look better. Tall walls will look better will a vertical piece, horizontal walls will look best with a landscape oriented artwork.

3.    Size. You can enhance a large room either with a large piece or with a group of small pieces, kind of creating a gallery wall. If you are working with a small room, a big piece can create an amazing focal point. The rule of thumb is to have the art fill two-thirds to three-quarters of the wall.

4.    Furniture. The size of the art pieces should be at least 1/3 of the lengt of the furniture. You can do it with a single or multiple pieces. 

Other tips...

When hanging your art piece, make sure to leave 6 -12 inches above the furniture from the bottom edge of the frame. If you are hanging the piece in an empty wall make sure that is hung eye level.

Select something that moves you, that makes you feel something, not simply a piece to fill your wall. Choose something that will have a meaning for you. If you need any help finding the perfect artwork give us a call!

 

Comfortable & Stylish

Are you one of those people who after a busy day desire to sit down and relax? If you are, a recliner will be a great addition to your home.

Years ago recliners where only made to be comfortable. They were big, took a lot of space from your living room, and the only style available was the leather masculine look. 

There is nothing wrong with that, but if you prefer a chair small in size that gives you comfort, as well as, complement the style in your home; you will be happy to hear that now there are many styles available to you!

Wing back chairs, wood frame chairs, rolled and sleek arms, tufted, with nail heads, with skirts, casual or formal.Transitional, traditional or contemporary in style. Many styles and options for you to choose from. 

Call or visit us for more information on these amazing and comfortable additions! 

 



 

 

Four simple tips to transform your living room into a wow space.

The holidays are around the corner so lets create one you will always remember. A kind of holiday that will have your guest talking about it for weeks not only for your delicious food but also for your fabulous decor. Here are four tips that will make that boring living room into a wow welcoming space.

1. Place an ottoman next to your favorite chair, rest your feet and start to unwind. 

2. Place a throw over the sofa. It can bring a new color and texture, as well as, getting you warm this cold season. 

3. Bring a cozy atmosphere to the room by placing buffet or table lamps. 

4. Accessorize using warm colors and textures 

All the pieces shown are custom and available for sale. If you need any help selecting whats best for you and your home; remember I am a call away!

 

Talk to you soon,

Paula 

 

Pieces that will take your breath away!

The crisp breeze has arrived; the trees have started to notice the change; leaves of different hues of red and orange are flying thru the air while the birds are looking to nest. 

The magical fall has started giving us the energy and time to start designing and creating. Its time to bring the magic indoors and add a twist to that area that has been forgotten for a quite long time or add life to that boring room.  Here are some exquisite pieces that can inspire you to start visualizing the magical change. 

A table with serpentine leg in a sophisticated finish paired it with a wonderful piece of art and a midcentury chair, can bring luxury to any portion in your home.

A table with serpentine leg in a sophisticated finish paired it with a wonderful piece of art and a midcentury chair, can bring luxury to any portion in your home.

You will enhance any practical office space by mixing wood with metal. Exceptional hardwood solids, curvy legs and functional drawers will make a beautiful and functional desk. Add an interesting metal book case and will have the wow effec…

You will enhance any practical office space by mixing wood with metal. Exceptional hardwood solids, curvy legs and functional drawers will make a beautiful and functional desk. Add an interesting metal book case and will have the wow effect you always dream of.

Any space would be graced with the unique, beautiful grilles panel design. This display cabinet bring a twist to any sophisticated dining area. 

Any space would be graced with the unique, beautiful grilles panel design. This display cabinet bring a twist to any sophisticated dining area. 

 Start conversations with a piece that will make your heart stop. It's your home and It should be a piece your love. You can find anything from artistic, classic , romantic, sophisticated or whimsical. There is a piece that will reflect you and your style. Bring a fall breath of fresh air into your home. Start planning, transform your home and enjoy the season. If you need help finding the perfect piece, just give me a call!

Talk to you soon,

Paula 

 

Give a purpose to your dining room

 

When choosing a dining table, consider the style, size, and purpose of your dining room.

The architectural details of  your home can be a great help when choosing a table. If your home is sleek and modern, an ornately carved table would look outdated. 

If the molding of your home include rich color wood and carved finials, then a straight leg wood dining table will clash with the architecture. The size of the dining table can be determine the size of the room and the number of people you would you like to seat comfortably.


The purpose of a dining room can be dictated by shape of the table.

Small square and round tables are great for creating a social atmosphere; this type of tables tend to encourage conversation because everyone will be able to see each other.

Incase you are looking to create a dramatic seating, a rectangular dining table will clearly define the head of the table and distinguish the guest of honor on special
occasions.

If you are looking to host the perfect dinner party , You have a variety of wood finishes, table styles that will create the dining room of your dreams, don't hesitate to contact me when you need help. I can guide you select a table that not only reflects the architecture of your house, but you and your family life style.

 

 

Talk to you soon,

Paula R