Explore the essentials of white glove delivery services for a flawless home design and installation experience.
Let’s chat about something that might not be the first thing you think about when planning your home remodel, but trust me, it makes all the difference. Imagine that you’ve picked out the perfect furniture, and you’re picturing how fabulous your home is going to look. But how do we get from point A, the showroom, to point B, your living room, without a hitch? This is where the nuanced services of a professional furniture receiver and white glove delivery and installation come into play—a crucial, yet often overlooked, aspect of the design process.
Why Professional Receiving is a Must
As an interior designer, my goal is to transform homes by ensuring that every detail is meticulously curated and placed. The seamless integration of furniture into a home involves planning, logistics and the right equipment. A professional furniture receiver acts as the critical intermediary, ensuring that each item is received, inspected, and stored until it is ready for delivery. This step is vital for several reasons:
Quality Assurance: Upon arrival, each piece undergoes a thorough inspection. Any damages or discrepancies from the original order are noted and rectified before installation. This proactive approach saves time and prevents the disappointment of a client discovering imperfections after installation.
Storage Solutions: Often, furniture pieces arrive on different schedules, and a space may not be ready to receive them. Professional receivers provide a secure environment to store items until the time is ripe for installation, safeguarding against potential damage and loss.
Streamlined Coordination: White glove services handle the logistics, from scheduling deliveries to the physical installation. They coordinate with various vendors and contractors, ensuring that installations align with the project’s timeline and the designer’s vision.
The White Glove Difference
White glove delivery and installation services are critical for a project’s success. They embody the care and precision that luxury furniture deserves:
Expert Handling: White glove teams are trained to handle high-end furnishings with care. They use the appropriate tools and techniques to assemble, place, and arrange furniture exactly as envisioned.
Attention to Detail: Beyond the delivery, these specialists pay attention to the finer points of installation. From the angle of a lamp to the positioning of a rug, every element is considered to create a harmonious space.
Beyond the Doorstep: Unlike standard delivery services that drop items at the door, white glove services take it several steps further. They unpack, assemble, and dispose of all packing materials, leaving the space immaculate and ready for you to enjoy.
Keeping It Real with Clients
As an interior designer, I always tell my clients that professional receiving and white glove delivery are worth it. They’re not just paying for someone to move stuff; they’re investing in peace of mind and careful attention to their investment.
How Laura Fullow Designs Brings It All Together
In the grand scheme of things, the right delivery service is like the unsung hero of design. It’s not just about getting furniture from A to B. It’s about making sure your new space is everything you dreamed of, minus the drama.
If you’re considering building a new home or renovating your current space, consider this an invitation to elevate your experience. We’re here to ensure that the vision for your design is not just met, but beautifully executed. Ready for a transformation? Reach out for a consultation at (702) 883-3200, or drop a line to [email protected]. Your space, handled with the care it deserves—this is the white glove guarantee.
Multigenerational living is a concept that is popular throughout most of the world but not so much in the United States. For generations, the American home-ownership dream has centered around single-family, suburban living.
According to current housing trends, buyers are now looking for homes that can accommodate more than a single family. Changing demographics, the current economic climate, longer lifespans and evolving ethnic diversity are factors in the increased interest in multigenerational housing.
Families find this type of housing arrangement especially beneficial because it is easier to share caregiving responsibilities and household expenses. It also provides the opportunity to share more of life’s special moments and milestones.
Here are a few ways that you can create a functional and beautiful multigenerational home that supports every member of your family.
Separate Entrances
Having a separate entrance for each family living in your home is key for multigenerational living. Not only does it increase independence, autonomy, and privacy, it also reduces foot traffic and chaos throughout the day, especially if there are children or pets in the home.
Consider installing keyless entry locks and deadbolts to allow for hands-free entry. It comes in handy in many situations, from bringing in the groceries to unlocking the door from your sofa when someone comes to visit.
Separate entrances are also fantastic if adult children decide to live at home after high school or move back in after college. According to Pew Research, more 18-34 year olds living at home with their parents for the first time in modern history.
First-Floor Bathroom
If you are creating a multigenerational home in a two-story house, consider creating an en suite bathroom on the first floor. Going up and down stairs gets harder as we age and is also difficult after surgery or hospital stays.
A bathroom that is accessible from the primary floor will be one of the best decisions you can make for aging in place because it gives you flexibility – you never know what life will throw at you! Other necessities for first-floor bathrooms are low or zero-threshold entrances, curbless showers, flip-down shower stools, grab bars, hand-held shower heads, and hands-free faucets.
Options for Socializing and Privacy
Today’s homes are designed to be open, with kitchens and great rooms combining to create a large space where the whole family hangs out. However, having a mix of shared and private spaces in your home is essential. Even if your family enjoys spending time together, we all need our own space to relax, rest and recharge.
Gathering spaces like kitchens, living rooms, dining rooms and outdoor entertaining areas bring people together to share in group activities like meal preparation, playing games and watching movies. Areas, like bedrooms, studies and offices provide options for more privacy when working remotely, doing homework, or just taking a nap.
Universal Design for Flexible Living
Universal Design, also referred to as aging in place design, is the concept of designing buildings, products or environments so that they are accessible to everyone, regardless of age, disability or other factors. Universal design really does benefit people of all ages.
Examples include adjustable lighting that can be controlled from different locations, wider hallways and doorways to allow for mobility aids, low or zero transitions, and low-reflective, smooth flooring with a bit of texture to prevent falls.
Safer Kitchens
For most families, the kitchen is the gathering hub of the home. Cooking and preparing meals is a great way for people to stay connected, and creating a space that is safe for everyone will increase your family’s enjoyment of your home for years to come.
Having countertops and surfaces that are at different heights gives everyone a place to chop vegetables, read a magazine or do homework. There are also plenty of after-market solutions that can make your kitchen work for you, like hydraulic pull-downs for wall cabinets and pull-outs and lifts for base cabinets.
Appliances are also getting smarter, and can benefit people with memory issues as well. Induction cooktops are much safer than gas or electric options because the surface doesn’t get hot – only the pan does! Remove the pan and it turns off automatically. Hands-free faucets are another bonus.
Whether you are entering a multigenerational living arrangement unexpectedly, or you’ve been planning it for years, it can be an enjoyable, enriching and memory-building experience. I hope this post has broadened your understanding of what it takes to create a functional and beautiful multigenerational home that supports every member of your family. If you are exploring building a new home, or renovating or remodeling your current space, feel free to reach out. I work with many clients who are retiring or planning their forever home and I can help you design a space that will grow and evolve to suit your needs. To schedule a consultation, call (702) 883-3200 contact me through my website, or send an email to [email protected].
The concept of a “Forever Home” is growing in popularity, but not everyone is sure how to make it a reality. By the end of the decade, the majority of the population will be age 65 or older and will need a little extra assistance and care. In fact, most people want to live independently in their homes as they age, rather than moving in with a family member, or going to live at an active or assisted living community.
Designing a home that allows for aging in place is based on the concept of Universal Design, and focuses on creating functional spaces for people of all ability levels. While most of us don’t consider what it takes to live in your home through our golden years, there are design changes or additions that you can make today that will have a big impact on your future comfort, convenience and safety.
Let’s take a look at a few of changes or additions that can help you remain at home longer, or give you the flexibility to take care of aging loved ones in their own home.
Designing a home that allows for aging in place is based on the concept of Universal Design, and focuses on creating functional spaces for people of all ability levels.
The Kitchen
The kitchen is the most popular room in the house. Therefore, making it comfortable and obstacle-free for everyone is the goal. If your kitchen is on the smaller side, a island on locking wheels will give you flexibility for wheelchair or mobility aide access. Also, consider a custom kitchen island with a lowered section made specifically for wheelchair access.
Cabinets: Doors or Drawers?
Choosing drawers under the countertops rather than doors is essential to avoid getting down on your hands and knees to search for pots and pans. There are affordable after-market roll-out and lift-up hydraulic shelves to give you easy access to your kitchen tools.
For the microwave, install a built-in unit into your wall or lower cabinet. The cabinet toe kick should also be modified to 9-inches high and 6-inches deep to accommodate wheelchairs.
Tables: Round or Square?
When it comes to kitchen tables, the shape is more important than you think. Tables with a center pedestal base are the best choice for flexible dining. There are no sharp corners, and no legs to bump into which means more leg room. Best of all, a round, pedestal-base table allows anyone with a mobility aide such as a wheelchair or walker to also have easy access.
In this condo, we chose a round pedestal table to allow for maximum space and flexibility.
The Bathroom
Bathrooms are one of the most important rooms in the house when considering both mobility and design. Because bathrooms are a space that needs to support your dignity and wellbeing, you’ll want to do everything you can to make this room both accessible and beautiful. And don’t worry — the products on the market today are a far cry from the steel bars that you see installed in hospitals, public restrooms and assisted living facilities!
Shower Curtains vs. Sliding Doors
Most households have a bathroom with a fiberglass bathtub and shower combo with either a shower curtain or sliding shower doors. Resist the urge to update or add new sliding doors or door tracks. In this instance a shower curtain is preferable! Embrace the opportunity to introduce color or pattern into your bathroom with a shower curtain. If you have the option to remodel or design a new bathroom, choose a shower design with a zero-threshold entry.
Shower Safety
Grab bars, shower seating and slip-resistant floor tiles will go a long way to increase safety as you age. Some grab bars double as shower shelves, and some manufacturers make grab bars that double as towel bars. Shower stools and benches come in a wide selection of materials and styles, from teak wood, to plastic, to fold-down. An adjustable-height shower head with a handheld wand will increase your ability to bathe independently.
Your sink or vanity should be no more than 34 inches above the floor, while the toilet should be between 17 to 19 inches tall. Consider hanging your hand towel on the side of your vanity, or lower on the wall to make it easier to reach. For toilet tissue paper, a free-standing holder provides maximum flexibility.
This bathroom’s design plan included a number of custom components including a recessed linen cabinet with drawers instead of doors, a floating vanity for wheelchair access, and shower controls located on the outside of the enclosure.
Throughout the Home
Levers, Knobs, and Switches
Levers and handles are always easier to use than knobs. Larger levels and handles are easier to see and maneuver. Rocker panel light switches are preferable to a toggle switch. Voice or motion-activated lighting can also be especially handy. Awning-type (crank) window units are the easiest to open and close.
Molding, Wainscoting, and Surface Touch Points
Adding chair rails, wainscoting and other surface touch points to your forever home is a must! These components are especially helpful for anyone who needs assistance with walking and balance. Keep countertop, tabletop and island surfaces relatively clutter-free so you can use them as touch-points.
Doorways and Hallways and Living Areas
Doorways and hallways should be at least 36 inches wide to accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility aids. If you live in a multi-level home, consider relocating the primary bedroom and bathroom to the ground level. If that is not possible, residential elevators are also an option.
Flooring
Falls are the leading cause of death for older adults. For your Forever Home, choose soft, smooth flooring that also has some grip. Carpets and rugs are inherently uneven and can be trip hazards so consider removing them. Linoleum, LVP, rubber and cork are all great options for soft but durable flooring. For people with impaired vision, strong patterns and polished finishes can interfere with depth perception. If your floor is not level or you have a raised or sunken room, signal height change with a different color or texture flooring material.
Smart Devices, Robots and DIY Security
These days, door locks, lighting, floor vacuums, lawnmowers, lawn sprinklers, thermostats and security systems can all be controlled with an app. When installing these components, make sure that you evaluate future maintenance requirements, malfunction risk, and whether they are easy to use. Also, consider if the apps that control your Smart Home can be used on larger screens like tablets and laptops.
Lighting and Electrical Tips
When it comes to lighting design for older adults, aim for surface illumination with reduced glare. If you have 9 foot ceilings or taller, install indirect lighting (also called cove lighting) to provide even, low-glare illumination. A color temperature between 2,700 and 3,000, with a color rendering index of 100, is best for aging eyes. This lighting appears more natural, like sunlight or daylight.
LED bulbs are an energy-efficient, long-lasting choice, as are color-correct metal halide bulbs. Not only are metal halide bulbs energy efficient, they also have a high color rendering index. Although they take a few minutes to “warm up” to achieve full light output, this can benefit older eyes allowing them to gradually adjust to the light level.
Electrical outlets in your Forever Home should be installed between 18-to-24 inches off the ground to allow for easy access. Light switches should be between 42-48 inches above the floor, and thermostats should be placed no higher than 48 inches off the floor.
For this kitchen’s lighting plan, we used several layers of lighting in order to provide a variety of options for everyone in the home.
Consider Future Needs When Designing A Forever Home
I hope this post has helped you better understand what it takes to design your Forever Home. While you may be in superb health today, aging is a natural (and inevitable) part of life. Considering your future needs and accommodations now so that you can stay in your home as you age.
If you are exploring building a new home, or renovating or remodeling your current space, feel free to reach out. I work with many clients who are retiring or planning their forever home and I can help you design a space that will grow and evolve to suit your needs. To schedule a consultation, call (702) 883-3200 message me through my website, or send an email to [email protected].
This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission for purchases at no additional cost to you.
Making your home a Smart Home is easier than ever with these three simple steps!
Smart Homes are no longer just for tech enthusiasts and Silicon Valley executives, they’re for everyone! Smart Homes deliver more than just the cool factor. They’re practical, relatively easy to set up, and are designed to learn your habits and support your entire family — even your pets! In this post, I wanted to lay out three steps that you can follow to create a smart home in 2023.
Smart Home technology can help make our lives easier and more productive! They are especially beneficial for retirees, people who live alone, or those with visual impairments or mobility restrictions. As an interior designer and fan of Universal Design, I believe that Smart Homes can address many of the challenges that await all of us as we age. Smart Homes can help us stay in our “forever homes” longer, while keeping us healthier, safer and happier. In fact, helping seniors age in place is very important to the future of our country. According to U.S. Census Bureau, all baby boomers will be older than age 65 by 2030.
The three steps to creating a well-designed Smart Home include:
Smart Home Devices: speakers and displays, home robots, and appliances
DIY Home Security: cameras, door locks, doorbells, and security systems
DIY Energy Management: thermostats, switches, dimmers, outlets, timers, and light bulbs
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular devices on the market today, and some that you’ve probably never heard of, but first, we’ll start with the foundations: Whole-Home Wi-Fi. After all, a Smart Home is only as good as it’s Wi-Fi connection.
It Starts With Reliable, Whole-Home WiFi
Wi-Fi routing has come a long way in the last ten years! Mesh networks were invented for the military, but in 2015 they entered the civilian market thanks to advances in technology and decreases in cost. Mesh can deliver reliable, high-speed Internet to every corner of your house using multiple routers working together. There are a variety of Mesh systems available that give you full connectivity for all of the spaces in your home, from the basement to the patio. No more dead spots!
Amazon eero Mesh WiFi System The eero Mesh WiFi System brings up to 4,500 sq. ft. of fast, reliable WiFi to your home. With eero and your existing Alexa device you can manage access for network profiles to take focus away from screens and back to what’s important.
Leviton Decora Smart Switch Control your home from anywhere via My Leviton app – simply replace your existing light switch! With the Leviton Decora Smart Switch, you can schedule lights to adjust when you want, including sunrise/sunset and vacation (away) mode. This switch is the easy way to introduce Wi-Fi lighting into your whole home!
PowerView Automation by Hunter Douglas Easily control shades with a button press, tap on your mobile device, automatically, or even with your voice. PowerView automates your shades to fit your daily schedule, including away modes. PowerView is also great for rooms with very tall, high windows. Stop fighting with drapery rods and get automated!
June Smart Oven The June Oven will replace your convection oven, toaster, air fryer, dehydrator, grill, slow cooker, broiler, proofer, pizza oven, roaster, and warming drawer. You can control it from anywhere and be notified when your food is ready with the June app. It also works with Alexa!
Echo Show 10 Smart Display with Alexa Manage your smart home — even when you’re away — with the Echo Show. Control compatible devices like cameras, lights, and more using the interactive display, your voice, or your motion. You can check your calendars and reminders, get daily recipe ideas and cook along hands-free with step-by-step instructions!
Step 2: DIY Smart Home Security
Schlage Encode Plus Smart Lock With built-in WiFi compatibility, you can easily and securely connect your Schlage Encode Plus lock to your home WiFi network to control and monitor your home from anywhere with the Schlage Home app. Pair it with Apple HomeKit for hands-free entry using your phone or Apple Watch! This product won a CEPro Best Product Award in 2022.
Level Lock Smart Lock Touch Edition I love this smart lock set so much! It is available in a range of finishes and lets you open your door using a key, the app, or a key card. The Level Lock Smart Lock Touch also allows you to share access with friends and family, see activity history, set auto-lock and unlock, and more.
Abode Iota All-in-One Security Kit – This top-rated smart home security system comes with an integrated security camera, alarm, key fob and window and door sensors. The Abode Iota offers everything you need to keep your family safe.
Walabot HOME – Fall Detector The Walabot HOME uses advanced sensor technology and provides 4 times the accuracy of other automated fall alert systems. There are no camera and it does not require a bracelet or pendant, or a monthly subscription!
Step 3: DIY Energy Management
Leviton Decora Smart Switch Control your home from anywhere with the Leviton Decora Smart Switch and the My Leviton app. Set lighting schedules for your home including sunrise/sunset, vacation mode, and auto-shutoff. It works with SmartThings, August, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and more!
GE CYNC Smart LED Light Bulbs Get added home security and convenience by controlling these Wi-Fi light bulbs with the Cync mobile app — no other system required! With these smart lights, you’ll never come home to a dark house again!
Kasa Smart Plug Power Strip Independently control 6 smart outlets, and charge 3 devices with built in USB ports. The Kasa Smart Plug Power Strip is Ideal for controlling electronics in your home, from the living room to the office! Now, you can monitor how much energy you are consuming using the Kasa smart app.
That’s a Wrap!
As you can see, the convenience of Smart Home technology isn’t just futuristic and cool — it can save you money, increase productivity, and provide an added layer of security and safety, especially if you live alone. Luckily, outfitting your home with interconnected appliances, sensors and devices is easier than ever.
I hope this post has helped you understand what a Smart Home can do for you and your family. If you have questions about Smart Home devices, feel free to reach out. I work with many clients who are retiring or planning their forever home and I can help you design a space that will grow and evolve to suit your needs. To schedule a consultation, call (702) 883-3200 message me through my website, or send an email to [email protected].
This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission for purchases at no additional cost to you.
Fall is in the air which means that it’s time for this year’s décor trends! I don’t know what it is about fall, but I love it more than any other season.
The rich colors, crisp air and the anticipation of change are something I look forward to every year. Being an interior designer means that when the seasons change, I also change up my home décor. This year I’m looking forward to using elements like matte gold, feathers, leaves and other dried florals. Dried flowers are having a moment!
If you’re looking to update your home for the new season, you’re in for a treat! I’ve scoured the internet and I’m sharing my top picks for Fall 2022.
Leaves and Feathers
Leaves, feathers and dried florals are everywhere this year. If actual plants and faux flowers are not your thing, consider leaf and feather silhouettes and shapes instead!
Bronze Leaf Embossed Glass Hurricane | Gold dipped leaves are infused into the pitted glass to create this stunning effect. Each piece is handmade and therefore no two are alike. Whether you use it as a candle holder or add your favorite seasonal flowers it is sure to be a standout.
Golden Leaves Shadow Box Set | A Leaf Collection Study, Cut From Silk Fabric With Gold Leaf Overlay, On A Natural Linen Backing Showcased In Wooden Shadow Boxes Finished With Gold Leaf, All Under Glass. May Be Hung Horizontal Or Vertical.
Leaf Impressions Print | This piece is a giclée reproduction on matte paper. Hand finishing is performed by a trained team of artisans to ensure the highest standards. All artwork is made domestically using archival ink and the highest quality materials.
Palma Gold Leaf Shadow Box Set | This set of 3 shadow box art features gold finished sago palm leaf replicas, set on a neutral linen background with hand applied gold leaf frames.
Feathers Wall Art | World-renowned designer Dann Foley partnered with Phillips Collection for his Feathers Wall Art design. Cast in artisan-grade resin and hand finished in gold leaf, these realistic feathers are made modern with a signature touch of glamour.
Autum Leaf Wash 1| Fall leaves in muted tones create a relaxed, natural piece. This piece is deckle and floated on a hand-wrapped mat and gallery canvas.
Warm Tones
Warm, rich tones are what fall is all about. Colors like cognac, cinnamon, olive, terracotta, mushroom and rust are hallmarks of the season — and perfect for your home!
Velvet is the quintessential fabric for fall. Add warmth to your space with plush velvet accent, like a throw pillow or a curved sofa, which can be the highlight of your space year-round. Don’t forget the velvet bedding!
Velvet Pickstitch King Quilt | Handmade by Indian artisans, this quilt is crafted from plush cotton velvet, which reverses to subtle cotton sateen. Elegantly hand-stitched detailing and a washed finish enhance each quilt with rich detail and an incredibly soft feel.
Grayson Occasional Chair | The Clean Taupe upholstery is a perfect background for the Soft Gold finish on the metal, providing a clean, lovely look.
Kendall Cognac Velvet Sofa | With its curved silhouette, plush upholstery and modern design, the Kendall sofa will elevate any space with a luxe, contemporary feel.
Maestro Lounge Chair in Danny Rust Velvet | Turn heads with this contemporary lounge chair that exudes extravagance. The Maestro Lounge Chair features a curved frame that is upholstered in a textured velvet fabric and completed with antiqued brass legs.
Soho Armchair in Olive Velvet | This handsome arm chair is both comfortable and stylish! The highlight of the design is the exposed stainless steel T-shaped frame in an antique brass finish.
Zella Arm Chair in Alamo Terracotta Velvet | For fans of modern vintage with an 1980s Art-Deco flair will love the Zella armchair. The unique frame gently curves all around to create a sophisticated silhouette.
Matte Metals
No season is more compatible with a matte metal finish than fall. Matte gold and brass are especially beautiful and not as overpowering as a shiny finish. Pull these tones in using picture frames, lighting, knobs and hardware, or small accessories.
Jupiter Kd Pu Metal Accent Chair | A modern take to America’s classic chairs, the Jupiter series features signature Windsor characteristics with slender, metal struts in bowed, high back contours.
Regina Andrew Gold Metal Knot | This abstract sculptural object wears a gold finish and has a real, handmade quality, perfect to dress up a living room coffee table or stylish bookshelf.
Michelangelo Velvet And Iron Stool | The Michelangelo iron and velvet stool elevates modern design to the next level with vintage velvet and reclaimed iron materials.
Large Birch Leaf Wall Art | This example of the waning season of fall has been hand-cut from metal sheets and dressed in a copper patina with a satin finish.
Hudson Cross Ottoman In Vintage Cigar and Antique Brass | The Hudson Cross Ottoman, constructed using top grain leather and stainless steel, features an upholstered leather seat in a vintage cigar finish and an antique brass finish on the frame.
Recycled Metal Tapered Pendant In Brass | Handcrafted by Mexican artisans from recycled aluminum, this Tapered Pendant’s shade is hammered by hand and forged in fire, creating a uniquely texture patina.
Texture, Texture, Texture!
Don’t forget — texture is a great way to add some warmth to your space. Choose throw pillows and blankets in nubby textures. Mix smooth textures (like cotton) with rough materials like sisal or jute. Furniture, mirrors and wall art also contribute to a room’s coziness. Choose items that have a unique surface feel and contrast with other items in your space.
Kai Wool Ottoman | Bernhardt interiors offer high-design furniture with an eclectic edge. Bound in hand-loomed wool, the Kai ottoman is a bohemian treasure.
Brass And Chenille Accent Chair | A seamless Golden Bronze metal tubular design creates the frame for the seat of the chair. Classic dark leather strapping around the seat deck provides the base upon which a plush dark espresso chenille cushion sits.
Alita Champagne Woven Metal Mirror | You’ll love the intricate style of this gorgeous wall mirror. It features a woven metal frame presented in a lustrous champagne finish.
Kamara Cow Hide Chair | Thick strips of hair-on hide are carefully handwoven around natural teak to create the comfortable seat and back of this casually elegant occasional chair.
Finnley Sideboard In Liath Smoke | Hand-finished pine from Finland is luxuriously complemented by white marble—all accented by zinc-alloy and reeded oak details.
Coral Basket Set | This set of nesting, flexible baskets are part an eclectic range of handmade furniture, accessories and textiles. The baskets are handcrafted by skilled artisans in Indonesia, using dried Enceng Leaves.
I hope this inspires you to embrace a few of the trends for Fall 2022 in your own home!
I’m really looking forward to seeing how this season comes together.
Until next time,
Laura
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