Bright & LightThis traditional, New Orleans inspired home, had a kitchen that was drab and lacked cohesive style. To deliver the client's desire for a brighter look and modern design, white cabinets, painted brick and the use of bold contrasts between dark countertops and light walls brought the space to life. BEFORE Exposed cabinetry can make a space look larger than it is. It is also a great way to incorporate color by displaying decorative dishes, platters and cookbooks. AFTER Floor to CeilingOutdated, small and awkwardly placed this coastal kitchen was in desperate need for a remodel. The easy solution would be new appliances, cabinetry and paint, but the bold choice was a floor to ceiling remodel. BEFORE Dark wood floors, and a tongue and groove, bright white ceiling was just the beginning. Another way to double the size of this space was to extend the cabinetry to the ceiling and all the way to the hallway entrance as well as building a nine foot island to house appliances and cabinetry on both sides. AFTER Removing the existing wall allowed for a coffee bar, a mini refrigerator and an additional sink to be installed. Hidden behind the closet is not a pantry but a washer and dryer which for this client was the best use of space. In both kitchen remodels the most important element of design was lighting. No matter the color scheme chosen or style, if there is a lack of lighting your design will not shine through. Kitchens tend to need more light than other spaces so keep this in mind when you build or remodel your home.
In the flooring world, carpet is getting softer; wood is getting more rustic, and vinyl more luxurious. As the materials change, the options for flooring are endless. Here are some of my favorites.
My beautiful nieces, Kenisha, Kierra and Zareesha are off to college in just a few days! In honor of their accomplishments, here are some creative ways to use washi tape in a dorm room. Make the door of your dorm stand out with a design or a word using washi tape. This is an inexpensive, simple way to express your unique style. Brighten up your boring white walls by making washi tape frames & using your favorite Instagram pictures, or a simple art design above your desk. If you want to cover a larger area, decorate an entire wall with a geometric design, stripes or an oversized heart. Due to space, most dorms do not provide headboards. No problem, make your own with washi tape. I love the city skyline, however if you prefer a more rustic feel, mountains or a nature design may be more your style. Worried about mixing up personal items with your roommates?
Personalize keys, school binders, power cords, or even beauty products with washi tape. I am currently obsessed with the idea of tiny house living. I have several solutions in mind for my own tiny space, however before I or anyone else take the plunge and downsize to 800 square feet or less, here are some things to consider. 1) Priority counts Personally, I love to cook, so a full size kitchen will have to be included along with an outdoor one. I desire a full-size oven, stove and refrigerator along with a dishwasher and plenty of counter space. However if cooking is not your passion, you may want to use that square footage for what matters to you. 2) Quality counts In a tiny space, make every decision a quality one. Splurge on the light fixture you love, because chances are you are only buying one. Textiles and hardware should be chosen with long term usability in mind. 3) Color counts Whether you like light or dark colors, bold or neutrals, choose colors you can live with. I absolutely love the colors chosen in the above tiny house found on tinyhouseswoon.com. 4) Comfort counts No one can determine what you find comfortable but you. Are you most comfortable in a hammock or a bed? Do you love recliners or sofas you can sink into? Be practical in choosing where you and your family will spend your downtime together. Just because you will be in a tiny place, make sure everyone in your family has a place... including your pets. 5) Research counts Determine to be as informed as possible about the process to make your tiny living dreams come true. Be diligent, and do your homework. Research and compare companies who can build your home for you vs. the cost of building your own. Most importantly, tour tiny homes in your area and like myself, spend hours online looking for the best ideas and solutions. As I find them and come up with my own, I will be sure to share them.
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