One of the easiest ways to upgrade a ho-hum home is through the clever use of architectural elements. Details like textured walls, detailed ceilings, and interesting archways infuse charm and personality into otherwise ordinary spaces. Whether you rent or own, there are many ways to enhance your home and make a statement with architectural elements.
Painted Ceilings and Doors
Paint is an easy way to change up your space. Whether you opt for bright pops of color or a neutral color scheme, paint is a relatively inexpensive way to make a big impression. Paint isn’t just for walls, however. Consider painting ceilings and doors as well! A painted ceiling in a small powder bath will make the room appear taller and more spacious. For impact, choose a bold or contrasting color on the ceiling. To create a more subtle interest, choose either a shade darker or a shade lighter the wall color.
Moldings and Chair Rail
Detailed trim work and moldings are great ways to add texture to your walls and ceilings. An arched doorway is enhanced with the addition of trim and corbels. Adding baseboards, chair rail and crown molding to a builder-grade home create instant personality. Trim and moldings come in a variety of budget-friendly materials from wood to PVC. Intricate, thick crown molding can also be “faked” by using a combination of paint and smaller trim pieces.
Architectural Lighting
Lighting is often overlooked as an architectural element but it’s one of my favorites! From lamps to chandeliers, lighting fixtures serve a dual purpose — form and function — and with a little creativity, they can also be the focal point in your space. For recessed lighting, consider replacing the standard white trim package with a metal-like antiqued bronze or polished brass. Chandeliers become statement pieces with the addition of a ceiling medallion.
Drawing inspiration from the natural world, the Ramya Pendant is a muse for organic design. Blending rich textures with a modern silhouette, this unique lighting fixture exudes an exotic botanical look. Each individually-cut coconut shell is dyed in rich black and is finished with wide hoop links that are wrapped in smaller coconut beads, dyed to complement the shade.
Wallpaper
Wallpaper and wallcoverings provide both homeowners and renters with colorful, textured solutions for ordinary walls. There are many options on today’s market — including removable vinyl wallpaper! Wallpaper and wallcoverings can be used in any room and provide an especially impressive impact in small spaces such as home offices and powder baths. A versatile decorating tool, wallpaper can be used inside closets, on ceilings, and on the backs of bookshelves and pantries. If the thought of a fully-wallpapered room is intimidating, create an accent wall instead. It’s an easy way to inject some excitement into your space without going overboard.
Pro Tip: While wallcoverings are made of heavier, textured materials like woven textiles and grasscloth, wallpaper is made from actual paper which naturally is less durable but also less expensive. Wallcoverings are also sold in longer lengths and therefore, will have fewer seams and less waste. Despite their differences, both are viable design solutions for a wide range of styles, from fun and funky to stately and traditional.
Replicating the distressed appearance of aged, hand-painted watercolors, the Free Flowing Wallpaper in Blue is printed in varying, complementary shades with simulated textures adding stunning detail. SureStrip backing is thoughtfully added for paste-free application and easy removal.
Furniture With Character
Never underestimate furniture’s ability to create architectural interest! Most people primarily think of comfort and function when it comes to furniture but they’re missing out on a major opportunity to infuse charm and personality into their home through their furniture’s details. Adding intricate trim or furniture-style legs to a kitchen island transforms it from a utilitarian work surface to a custom piece of furniture. Sofas become pieces of art when their silhouettes and structures are highlighted with turned legs and bun feet. Metal-framed armchairs provide a modern edge to an otherwise traditional living room. Side tables made of stone make a strong statement both indoors and out. The next time you are furniture shopping, pay special attention to the details including the legs, backs, seats, arms, and feet. Do any of their shapes mimic shapes already present in your space? Do any of the shapes contrast? Considering these details in relation to your home is a great way to broaden your style palate.
The Double Date Wingback Settee is specially designed for making a statement. Its winged high-back design provides an embracing comfort. Distinctive wood trim details the elegant shape of this piece, finished off by delicate ferrule tips.
In my next post, I’ll discuss a problem area for many people: the small space. Small spaces get a bad rap but they’re truly one of my favorites to design because they’re challenging and require outside-of-the-box thinking. I’ll show you how to get the most out of your small space without sacrificing your style, function and budget.
Until then,
Laura
You can shop all of my curated looks, including items mentioned in my blog posts, by clicking the buttons below.
The term “living space” can be expanded to include more than just the rooms inside your home — it should include your available outdoor space, too. If there’s one thing we’ve learned from 2020, it’s that we miss gathering with friends and family to celebrate life in ways both big and small. Our living spaces are now the place where we live, work, go to school, play, and relax. After spending a year at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, folks are re-thinking how — and where — they live.
Creating An Outdoor Space You’ll Love Is As Easy As One, Two, Three
The three most important components of building a comfortable outdoor living space are found in style, function, and comfort. Whether you’re creating an outdoor dining room or a cozy study nook, these three concepts combined are the key to a harmonious design.
1.) Style
Style is different for everyone. Some people like very modern designs with straight lines and bold colors. Others may be more traditional and prefer lots of patterns in soft neutrals. To create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, try to use a similar color palette and style as is used in your home. If you’re looking for a style upgrade, the emerging trends for 2021 and beyond include rattan and wicker furniture, natural fabrics and recycled materials.
Based on time-honored Mayan hammock weaving technology the Acapulco lounge chair is an indoor/outdoor lounge chair that unifies tradition with innovation and harmonizes the function of ergonomic comfort with retro-modern aesthetic form.
2.) Function
The function of your space is important and requires a lot of consideration. A well-planned space will give you the flexibility to grow and evolve with your family’s needs. If you enjoy cooking and entertaining, consider creating an outdoor kitchen and dining area. If relaxing with a good book and a glass of iced tea is more your speed, perhaps you’d like an intimate seating area. Remote working and learning are now quite common — consider creating a comfortable area where all members of the family can charge devices, laptops and get a breath of fresh air while they tackle their tasks.
The substantial and comfortable Leroy Sofa features wide planks of washed brown teak and UV-resistant and water-repellent Sunproof fabric — perfect for every member of the family (including pets).
3.) Comfort
The final component of a good design equation is comfort. Now, more than ever, people are searching for things that bring comfort into their lives. Comfort can be found in soft cotton throws and deep lounge chairs that you can sink into for the evening. Comfort also comes in other forms like warm colors, rich woods, and luxurious candles. Comfort can also be a simple hammock strung between two trees. Whatever you choose, a comfortable space should be a sanctuary for you and your family.
Bohemian meets elevated comfort in the Dana Linen Rope Collection. Intricately woven and well balanced, this artisanal collection creates a fresh, relaxed, and textured look.
Outdoor Living Trends For 2021 And Beyond
Now that we’ve discussed the three most important components of creating an outdoor space that your family will enjoy for years, let’s talk about some of the emerging trends for Outdoor Living in 2021 and beyond.
Year-Round Gathering – Homeowners are enhancing their outdoor gathering spaces with upgraded seating, fire pits, heaters, and fireplaces. Having a usable outdoor space for entertaining friends and family is now a must-have.
Bring warmth and ambiance to your outdoor space with the Natural Log Rectangle Outdoor Fire Table. Modern and user-friendly, there is no hookup to propane or gas lines required. Simply use firewood or disposable gel fuel canisters and gather ‘round for hours of conversation and laughter with family and friends.
A Desire for Privacy – In 2021, people are shifting many aspects of daily living activities to the outdoors. Whether you’re relaxing, exercising, or having a family dinner, a private space now ranks at the top of the list for home buyers. Options for creating privacy in your yard include fencing, large plants and trees, pergolas and gazebos, and all-weather drapery.
The Outdoor Office – Over the last year, remote working and learning have become a necessary part of life. Having the option of a secondary workspace gives your and your family freedom to work and learn where they’re most comfortable. A change of scenery can help reduce stress and improve concentration. Consider upgrading your WiFi for outdoor access and adding extra electrical outlets to your deck, patio, or porch. Consider installing an outdoor TV or Bluetooth speakers for a fully-connected experience.
Plants With A Purpose – The COVID-19 pandemic has made us rethink what we’re getting out of our gardens. Vegetable gardens, container gardening and composting all grew in popularity in 2020, and for good reason. Growing your own food can be fun, educational and delicious! If you don’t have space for a traditional garden, you can use pots and planters to grow fruits, vegetables and herbs on your patio.
Grow your favorite plants in style! This hand-crafted Stoneware Planter features a reactive glaze and holes to add rope for hanging.
I hope I have inspired you to take advantage of your usable outdoor space! Transforming your patio, deck, or porch into a place where you can relax, rejuvenate and maybe even get some work done can be simple, with the proper planning. Just keep the Style + Function + Comfort equation in mind and you’ll have a family-friendly, flexible outdoor space that everyone can enjoy.
In my next post, I’ll discuss how to use architectural elements to enhance your home.
Until then,
Laura
You can shop all of my curated looks, including items mentioned in my blog posts, by clicking the buttons below.
Minimalist interior design is often misunderstood. People think it’s bland, boring, and devoid of personality. I’m here to tell you that’s not the case! Minimalist design can be fun, exciting, and speak to your personality while still embodying a simple and clean design.
The Minimalist design aesthetic emerged in the 20th Century as a counter-response to the intricate details of classical design. It is a design stripped down to its essential elements — all unnecessary flourishes are eliminated. When it comes to Minimalism, you want your design to meet at the intersection of form and function — a pleasing, simple design that is as functional as it is beautiful.
Simplify Your Color Scheme
One of the easiest ways to create a Minimalist space is to use a simplified color scheme — no more than three colors. You can keep it very clean by using mostly white with pops of bold color like orange or green. For a serene, calming atmosphere, pick a few different shades of cream, gray, or taupe and create interest using textures and patterns.
“Palms Up” Carved Ivory Bar With Gold Legs | By keeping the colors in this dining room neutral, the hand-carved doors of the Palms Up bar becomes a work of art rather than just a piece of furniture. It truly sets the bar high by combining form + function.
Curate Your Space
If you have a lot of “stuff” and aren’t sure how Minimalist design can work for you, reframe how you see your furniture and accessories. Try looking at them through fresh eyes. Go shopping — but in your own home! Remove all of your decor and accessories and place them in the center of the room. Using the eye of a curator, select the items that you most want to see in your “new” space. You can even shop items from other rooms and create a completely new look without spending any money.
Bikaner Tobacco Box Set | The Bikaner Box Set includes three hand-turned vessels that are high-end reproductions of vintage tobacco boxes used in Rajasthan. They not only look nice, but they also serve as storage. Use them on a bedroom dresser as a stash for spare change and jewelry, or keep them on the coffee table to hide remote controls and coasters.
Focus On Function
Creating a Minimalist design means combining form and function but in a focused way. With less “clutter” in a space, it’s important that the items you choose are quality pieces that will stand the test of time. Decide on your focal point and let that be the star of the space. For instance, a dining room ceiling light fixture is functional — it provides light to the room. Since you need a light fixture, opt for a well-designed piece that can stand alone — this is where function meets form. No need for lots of accessories or wall art — just a stunning chandelier commanding all the attention. This trick can be used with the furniture as well.
Every inch of wall space does not need to be covered! Sometimes empty space — known as “negative space” in the design world — is needed to let your room breathe. You won’t notice your beautiful red armchair if you have a lot of other items that compete with its prominence. Consider leaving some corners empty and some walls blank. It will also make your room feel larger and let your curated Minimalist look take center stage.
Fargo Bookcase | The Fargo dark walnut and black metal bookcase looks just as good empty as it does filled.
Keep Clutter Out Of Sight
One of the best combinations of form + function comes in the form of double-duty furnishings — storage benches, ottomans, bookcases, baskets, and bins. Because Minimalist design requires a clutter-free space, it’s important to keep things tucked away but still accessible. Having roomy furniture that also stores items that you want to keep out of sight is quite a bonus!
“Bombshell” Four-Door Buffet With Pearl Shell Finish | This dramatic sideboard stands up to the height of a credenza or drops down to the height of an entertainment center. Featuring four doors with hidden pulls and loads of storage, Bomb-Shell takes center stage in any room.
Minimalist design isn’t boring — it’s just focused.
It’s easy to create a luxurious, Minimalist space when you know the secret of combining form + function to curate a look that is uniquely yours.
Try using these tips to plan your next living space upgrade and let me know how it works for you!
In my next post I’ll discuss where to splurge and where to save while achieving a luxurious, unique, and artistic outdoor space.
Until then,
Laura
You can shop all of my curated looks, including items mentioned in my blog posts, by clicking the buttons below.
Do you scroll through Instagram, drooling over photos of beautiful rooms that you can see yourself living in but are afraid you can’t afford? Do you put off plans of redecorating or remodeling your home because you don’t have an unlimited budget?
Friend, I am here to help!
I work every day with clients to create unique, luxurious, and artistic spaces that fit a variety of budgets. The secret to getting what you want without breaking the bank is using what I call, “The Magic Mix” — the art of mixing high-end and low-end items to curate a look that is high on personality and low on price.
Trick #1: Plan Your Impact
There are many ways to create excitement in a space — lighting, furniture, and artwork are some of my favorites. For example, a bold overhead light fixture (like this Karrington small chandelier) may be all you need to create a lot of visual impact. A sculptural armchair or a bold painting by a local artist would also work well. Prepare for your impact item to be on the higher side of the price scale, and balance this investment with lower-priced items that help you stick to your budget.
Trick #2: Capitalize on Consignment and Thrift-Store Finds
Second-hand furniture isn’t the first thing that comes to mind for many people. This forgotten source is a treasure-trove for those looking to incorporate heirloom-quality furniture into their space. Today, homeowners of all ages are downsizing, and with that often comes new furniture scaled for a smaller floor plan. This has created a large, often untapped market of heirloom-quality items from decades past, especially for American-made furniture companies such as Drexel, Ethan Allen, and Broyhill. Not only can you find beautiful pieces in great condition, but you can also save a lot of money on quality-made, real-wood furniture that will last for years to come. Bonus points if you can use a top-notch thrift-store find as your high-impact item!
Trick #3: Utilize the “If Your Tush Touches It” Rule
I know. It sounds funny, but it’s a very important rule that hopefully, you’ll never forget. The rule refers to daily-use furniture — items that your tush will literally touch, every single day. Think dining tables and chairs, sofas, desks, and beds. These items are used heavily, day after day, and sometimes at night, too. They need to be solidly constructed and able to withstand lots of use over many years. Plan your budget to include high-quality furniture so that your return-on-investment is worth the splurge. Your tush — and your wallet — will thank you for it.
Trick #4: Find New Ways to Use Ordinary Items
Making something new from something old is one of my favorite tricks to creating a layered, curated look. Something I’ve noticed lately — especially on Zoom calls — is book collections. These aren’t just any books, though. They’re covered with luxurious paper in a variety of colors, changing the focus from titles and authors to shapes and sizes. It’s a great way to create a cohesive, structured visual display without getting distracted by dust-covers. This is such an accessible decorating trick and it’s one of my favorites.
Pro Tip: If you aren’t into DIY or don’t have time to wrap dozens of books, you can purchase pre-curated book collections like the one below at Wrapped Books By The Foot by Booth & Williams.
Trick #5: Know When To Go Low
The beauty of The Magic Mix is that it empowers you to create a very personalized, luxurious space with the resources that you have. When you know how to plan your budget and prioritize your purchases, you free up space to bring in items that are lower in price without sacrificing style. Items that fit the “low” category are usually accessories that have a designer look at a fraction of the price. My favorites include shiny, sparkly, unique decor items like this faux crystal votive candle holder by Regina Andrew.
And there you have it — The Magic Mix — my biggest designer trick revealed!
It’s easy to create a luxurious, budget-friendly space when you know the secret of combining high-end and low-end items to curate a look that is uniquely yours.
Try using The Magic Mix to plan your next living space upgrade and let me know how it works for you!
In my next post I’ll discuss how less is actually more when it comes to luxury interior design.
Until then,
Laura
You can shop all of my curated looks, including items mentioned in my blog posts by clicking the button below.
Living in Las Vegas has presented me with the opportunity of meeting artists, craftspeople and creators of every type. I believe strongly in supporting small business and I include custom design in my projects where possible.
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