Resolution Dream Home

EVERYTHING BATHROOMS: April Showers….and Tiles, Toilets and Tubs

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:03:51 GMT

From primary suites to powder rooms, bathrooms have evolved far beyond purely private “business” spaces. Today, they’re personal sanctuaries, design statements, and even a little slice of everyday luxury. If your home’s bathrooms are still stuck in a past decade—complete with chipped vanities, tired fixtures, and outdated tile—it might be time to turn April showers into inspiration for something new.

Let’s explore how you can reimagine your bathroom with style, comfort, and smart planning.

A Fresh Start: Why Remodel Now?

As a frequently used space, the mighty bathroom’s wear and tear shows up in not-so-attractive ways: grout discolors, fixtures lose their shine, and choices you made at a certain point in your lifecycle and budget start to feel dated and inefficient. So, a refresh or total remodel isn’t just about a quick fix. Upgrading a bathroom improves how your space works for your daily routine and gives you a daily boost of happiness with its new features and aesthetic.

Showers That Steal the Show

If there’s one feature transforming modern full bathrooms, it’s the shower. Gone are the days of basic fiberglass inserts—even today’s prefab showers are sleek, spa-like, and customizable.

Walk-in showers with frameless glass create an open, airy feel and make even small bathrooms look larger.
Style-establishing tile from the most simple and neutral to bold geometric patterns to calming natural stone adds personality and texture.
Rainfall showerheads and body sprays turn your daily rinse into a full-on experience.
Built-in niches and benches combine convenience with clean design.

If budget allows, consider adding steam features or smart controls that let you set temperature and pressure with precision. Don’t forget to include adequate venting and fans if you’re a steam lover!)

Tubs That Command a Soak

While showers are a must have, tubs still reign as the ultimate relaxation feature.

Freestanding tubs act as sculptural focal points in primary bathrooms.
Soaking tubs provide deep comfort after long days.
Combination tub-shower designs remain a smart solution for family bathrooms.
Extra features and accessories like jets, spray heads and cushions are available at almost every price point.

For a practical upgrade, a spa-inspired indulgence or a whimsical centerpiece, a tub that’s the right size, shape and material can make your bathroom just perfect.

Highlight of the Vanities

Vanities are more than just the cabinets that hold the sink. Your bathroom’s cabinetry, countertop and sinks are a central design element—pulling your look all together and ensuring you have the storage you need for the way you live.

Swap outdated, chipped or peeling units for an instant facelift.
Consider floating vanities to create a modern, streamlined look and to offer more floor space.
Warm, organic looks are trending now, and neutral is ALWAYS a good investment. But if you love something bolder and plan on enjoying it for years (think shine, color, not-from-nature materials) … go for it!
Choose cabinetry lines that offer soft close drawers and solid construction.
Incorporate custom storage solutions—think pull-out drawers, hidden outlets, and built-in organizers.
Double sinks make sharing a bathroom more orderly and enjoyable if you have the space.
When planning faucets and hardware, consider style, scale, finish and all those little details like the slope of your sinks and clearance.
Update to matte black, brushed gold, or polished nickel fixtures for an instant refresh.
Consider angular vs. circular faucets.
A professional designer helps to make sure everything is cohesive to the eye and user friendly.
Real stone countertops such as marble, granite and quartzite offer durability and a multitude of style options and price points. Check out your local stone yard. Sometimes they have gorgeous remnants at excellent prices that would be perfect for a smaller bathroom.

Not Your Mother’s CorianⓇ

Solid stone surfaces have made a modern comeback and are incredibly practical for bathrooms.

Flat, uniform looks are in the past. Today’s options mimic natural stone, concrete, and even marble with remarkable depth and movement
These materials can be used for seamless countertops, integrated sinks, shower walls, tub surrounds, and even custom shelving, creating a clean, cohesive look with minimal or zero grout lines.
They’re non-porous, resistant to stains and moisture, and super easy to clean
Brands to checkout are Corian®, Krion®, Silestone®, Caesarstone®, and Dekton®

Details that Will Make You “Flush” with Joy

Replace old lighting with layered illumination—task lighting for mirrors, ambient lighting for mood.
Upgrade to water-efficient toilets and faucets for sustainability without sacrificing performance.
Install radiant heating under cold tile. It’s affordable, energy efficient and so delightful.
Heated towel bars give you a spa vacation feel, even on a workday.
Toilets that open and light up sensing your arrival, feature warm seats, spray functions and quiet flushing are quite functional in a full bath and will assuredly be a talking point in a powder room.

The Power of the Powder

Because of its size, the power room is a perfect place to take design risks.

Try bold wallpaper or dramatic paint colors
Install a unique vessel sink or statement mirror
Add decorative lighting to create a boutique feel
Keep a super clean, neutral palette and switch out hand towels, soaps, candles and art whenever you feel like a new vibe is due.

A powder room remodel is often quicker and more budget-friendly, but the impact on guests is huge.

Let’s Plan Your Upgrade

Whether you’re dreaming of a full primary suite renovation with all the bells and whistles or a simple refresh to bring new life into a tired space, the possibilities are endless. The key is designing a bathroom that fits your lifestyle, reflects your style, and adds value to your home.

This April, let’s reimagine your space. New showers, beautiful tiles, updated fixtures, and thoughtful design can turn your bathroom into one of your favorite places in the house.

🌷SPRING SHAPE UP🌷 A Post-Winter Bootcamp Checklist for Your Home

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 18:44:00 GMT

With the snow gone and longer days, the promise of tulips and BBQs is real! Before bringing out the power-washer, beautifying the planters and fluffing the patio cushions, focus on some boring but essential maintenance basics. Making sure your home and property not only looks good, but is damage-free, paves the way for safe outdoor enjoyment…this spring and for years to come! *

�� Roof & Chimney

o Look for missing, curled, or cracked shingles (freeze–thaw cycles loosen them).

o Check for loose flashing around vents and chimneys.

o Inspect for icicle damage along roof edges.

o Make sure the chimney cap is intact and no bricks or mortar cracked over winter.

�� Gutters & Downspouts

o Clean out leaves, twigs, and ice debris.

o Ensure downspouts are still attached and directing water away from the foundation.

o Check for sagging gutters or leaks at joints.

�� Siding, Windows, & Doors

o Look for cracked siding, peeling paint, gaps in caulking

o Reseal windows if necessary to reduce summer humidity and pests.

o Replace draft strips that are dried or cracked.

�� Foundation

Walk around the entire house and:

o Check for new cracks

o Examine soil erosion near the house

o Investigate signs of water pooling

�� Driveway, Walkways, Patios & Hardscape

o Prevent weed growth and hazards by checking asphalt, cement, gravel and stone surfaces for:

o Cracks caused by freeze-thaw.

o Potholes or deepening sink holes.

o Plow damage such as cracked curbs and chipped Belgium block.

o Clean up excess salt & sand to clear the way for healthy plants and clean-looking concrete.

o Sweep, hose off and clean the edging of front and back steps.

o Identify missing grout or uneven stones on walkways cause by heaving.

Decks

o Check for rotting or jutting boards.

o Hammer down loose or protruding nails.

o Ensure railings are strong and secure.

�� Trees

o Remove large branches from winter storms or blizzards.

o Check trees for split limbs, hanging branches, leaning trunks.

o It is typically easiest to trim trees prior to spring growth but consult a qualified arborist for optimal timing on ornamental shrubs and bushes such azaleas, rhododendrons and hydrangeas.

��️ Lawn

o Rake up leaves, sticks and winter debris to prevent mold and dead patches.

o Check yard areas for pooled water and blocked drains

Attic Inspection

o On a sunny day, look for indications of roof leaks including:

o Water stains on wood

o Wet insulation

o Mold or mildew

o Daylight showing through the roof

o Prevent next year’s ice dams (and flood damage) by checking the edges of the roof eaves for dark stains or rotting wood

o Look for signs of critters including droppings, shredded insulation, nesting materials and (uh oh!) scratching noises. Seal entry points if found.

�� Fireplace

Before warm weather arrives:

o Sweep out ash and soot.

o Check the damper opens and closes properly.

o Look for cracked bricks or loose mortar inside the chimney.

o If you used it heavily in winter, a professional chimney cleaning is advised.

o Test your CO and smoke detectors and replace old batteries.

��️ Airing Out

After months of sealed winter air, to reduce dust, allergens and odors:

o Open windows on mild days.

o Let fresh air circulate through rooms.

o Clean or replace HVAC filters.

�� Pest Prevention

Spring is when pests wake up.

o Seal entry points (gaps around pipes, holes in siding, and openings in foundations) before ants or other insects make their way in.

o Repair torn screens before replacing your storm doors and opening windows.

��️ Saying “Adieu” to Winter

o Swap winter candles/scents (pine, cinnamon) for lighter spring scents (citrus, floral, linen).

o Wash blankets and winter textiles.

o Put away heavy throws and winter decor.

o Clean windows to let in more sunlight.

*If you’re a DIY-er and have the time, you can probably handle many of these end-of-season tasks. However, for assessments and fixes that you’re not too sure about, enlist the expertise of licensed and insured professionals. Need some spring ideas and referrals? Just ask Susan!

ONE FOR THE AGES: Future Forward Thinking in Your Home Design

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 20:26:19 GMT

The “sandwich generation” faces the logistical, financial and emotional challenges of raising dependent children and managing the needs of aging parents. Difficult, to be sure. However, managing all of this does impart some valuable perspective on how you want to prepare for your senior years.

If living independently in your home (aging in place) is a long-term goal, there are design choices now that make the transition easier later.

Aging in place isn’t about making your home look clinical or institutional. It’s about thoughtful planning—creating flexible, beautiful spaces that evolve with you. Whether you’re building new, renovating, or simply updating finishes and furnishings, the right decisions today can support independence, safety and comfort for decades.

Start with the Big Picture: Layout & Flow

Primary Suite

Even if you love your second-floor primary suite now, think ahead. Is there:

A first-floor office that could convert into a bedroom?
A den or playroom that could become a primary suite?
Space to add a full bathroom on the main level?

Designing with flexibility in mind—such as framing for a future bathroom or including a closet in a first-floor study—can make a future conversion seamless and far less expensive.

Wider Pathways & Doorways

Mobility support equipment like walkers and wheelchairs require more clearance than you may realize. Does your home design call for:

Doorways ideally 32–36 inches wide?
Hallways at least 36 inches wide?
Open floor plans with clear circulation paths?

These proportions will feel generous and comfortable in family life and become essential later.

Minimal Level Changes

Step-free entries (no threshold at front or garage doors), fewer interior level changes, and flush transitions between rooms reduce trip hazards now and eliminate major barriers later.

Cook Up Kitchens That Work for Every Generation

Smart Layout Decisions

The central artery of your home can be functional for the chefs, snackers, furry friends and guests by including:

Ample clearance (at least 42–48 inches) between counters and islands
Open knee space under a portion of the island or perimeter counter for seated work
Pull-out shelves and drawers instead of deep lower cabinets
Side-opening wall ovens rather than bending to reach a range oven

These features feel like luxury conveniences now and become mobility solutions later.

Easy-to-Use Hardware & Fixtures

Lever-style handles instead of knobs
D-shaped cabinet pulls that are easy to grasp
Touchless or single-lever faucets
Drawer-style microwave placement

These small details make daily life easier for young children, busy parents and aging adults alike.

Bathrooms Designed for Long-Term Comfort

Walk-In Showers Over Tubs

While soaking tubs may appeal now, consider:

Curbless walk-in showers
Reinforced walls for future grab bar installation
A built-in shower bench
Handheld showerheads

Even if grab bars aren’t installed today, reinforcing walls during construction allows them to be added later without major renovation.

Space for Assistance or Equipment

Ensure:

5-foot turning radius where possible
Ample clearance around toilets
Comfort-height toilets
Non-slip flooring

Double vanities are great for busy families—and provide room for a seated grooming station later.

Lighting

Aging eyes need more light, but this doesn’t have to dictate “fuddy-duddy” choices by any means. Dimmable bulbs and high-tech controls are good design at all ages. Incorporate:

Layered lighting (ambient, task, accent)
Under-cabinet lighting in kitchens
Motion-sensor lighting in hallways and bathrooms
Rocker-style light switches placed lower on walls

Good lighting improves safety and enhances design for all lifestyles and stages.

Flexible Rooms for Evolving Needs

Young Family Life

Playrooms that later convert to guest suites
Homework nooks that become reading areas
Mudrooms that transition into organized storage spaces

Empty Nester Life

Large dining rooms that convert into home offices
Guest rooms that double as caregiver suites
Finished basements designed with future stair lifts in mind

Technology for Independence

Today’s smart home technology can significantly support aging in place with:

Video doorbells
Smart thermostats
Voice-activated lighting
Security systems with remote monitoring

These tools provide both convenience now and safety later.

Planning Ahead with Expertise

Preparing for decades ahead isn’t about making your home look clinical or institutional. It’s about creating flexible, beautiful spaces that evolve with you. The right decisions today can support independence, safety and comfort for your whole life.

An experienced interior designer will be a great asset in achieving this goal. They may also consult with other aging specialists and online resources to optimize access and functionality. Some helpful sites include:

National Aging in Place Council (NAIPC)
National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) – CAPS program
AARP HomeFit Guide
Universal Design for Aging in Place

Here’s to leading the life you want in the home you love…for many years to come!

EYES ON YOUR FUTURE: Leveraging a Designer’s Expertise to Optimize Your Retirement Lifestyle

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 16:46:00 GMT

When people think about estate and financial planning, they typically envision a team made up of financial advisors, attorneys, accountants, and perhaps real estate professionals. One expert rarely included in that conversation is an interior designer. However, understanding the current and future value of your home is critical to the planning process.

For many individuals and couples thinking about their retirement, their home is not only their largest financial asset but also the setting for the next phase of life. Decisions made about the home—whether to stay, modify, downsize, or sell—have significant financial, emotional, and lifestyle implications. According to Richard A. Boehm, CFP ^®️ and founder of Unified Wealth Management, a boutique financial planning firm:

Your home isn’t just an asset on a balance sheet. It influences cash flow, tax planning, retirement and estate decisions, and ultimately how you live day to day. When home decisions and design improvements are guided by the right design professional and aligned with a broader financial plan, they bring clarity to decision-making and enhance both your lifestyle today and your long-term financial confidence.

Thus, a seasoned, market-wise interior designer can offer valuable insight at this intersection of design, real estate valuation, and estate planning, making them an unexpected and critical contributor to your team.

Your Home: A Lifestyle Choice and a Financial Strategy

Retirement planning is no longer just about numbers on a balance sheet. It’s about quality of life, independence, safety, and flexibility. Your home plays a central role in all these areas. It is wise to understand what your home is worth today, how that value may change over time, and whether it will continue to work for you as your needs evolve.

Will your home comfortably support aging in place? Does it require updates to remain safe and functional? Or does it make more sense to invest strategically now to maximize resale value for a future relocation? These are not purely financial questions. They are design questions as well—and that is where an experienced interior designer brings unique value.

When evaluating your home as part of your estate and financial plan, several key factors deserve careful consideration:

1. Current Market Value and Future Potential
Understanding what your home is worth today is essential, but so is recognizing what influences its future value. Layout, condition, finishes, and functionality all impact market perception. A designer who understands local real estate trends can identify which aspects of your home are assets—and which may be limiting its value.

2. Suitability for Aging in Place
Many retirees hope to remain in their homes as long as possible. This requires honest evaluation of accessibility, safety, and ease of use. Narrow doorways, steep stairs, poor lighting, or outdated bathrooms can all become obstacles over time.

3. Cost vs. Return on Improvements
Not all upgrades are created equal. Some improvements significantly enhance livability and resale value, while others offer little return. Strategic planning is critical to avoid over-investing in changes that do not align with long-term goals.

4. Timing and Flexibility
Estate planning often involves contingencies. Your home should be adaptable—able to meet your needs now, appeal to future buyers later, or transition smoothly into a rental or sale if circumstances change.

5. Emotional and Lifestyle Considerations
Your home is more than an asset; it is deeply personal. How you observe holidays, sentimental attachments, where your extended family gathers, and the needs of future generations may factor in your decision-making. Estate planning must balance financial responsibility with comfort, identity, and enjoyment of daily life.

How an Interior Designer Supports the Planning Process

A seasoned interior designer brings both creative vision and practical expertise to these considerations, helping bridge the gap between lifestyle goals and financial strategy by:

Providing a Realistic Assessment of Your Home
Designers are trained to see potential—and limitations. They can objectively assess how your home functions today and how it may perform in the future, offering clarity that supports informed decision-making alongside your financial and legal advisors.

Aligning Design Decisions with Market Reality
A market-wise designer understands buyer expectations, regional preferences, and evolving design standards. This insight helps homeowners make updates that resonate broadly, protecting resale value while avoiding trends that may date quickly.

Recommending Smart, Strategic Upgrades
From kitchen and bath improvements to lighting, flooring, and space planning, designers can guide investments toward updates that enhance both daily living and long-term value. This ensures renovation dollars work harder for you.

Designing and Managing Aging-in-Place Strategies
Designers experienced in universal and accessible design can integrate safety features seamlessly—such as curbless showers, improved lighting, wider circulation paths, and ergonomic layouts—without sacrificing aesthetics or value.

Creating a Home That Adapts Over Time
Flexible design solutions allow spaces to evolve with your needs, whether that means converting a first-floor room into a future bedroom, designing multifunctional spaces, or planning updates in phases aligned with financial milestones.

When interior designers collaborate with financial planners, estate attorneys, and real estate professionals, homeowners benefit from a more holistic approach. Each expert views the home through a different lens—legal, financial, market, and experiential. Together, they help ensure that decisions about your home support both your lifestyle and your legacy. Including a designer early in the planning process can also prevent costly missteps. Rather than reacting to sudden needs or rushed decisions later, homeowners gain a proactive strategy that aligns design, finances, and long-term goals.

Your estate plan is ultimately about stewardship—of your resources, your lifestyle, and your future. When thoughtfully included, an interior designer becomes not just a stylist, but a strategic partner in designing a retirement lifestyle that is comfortable, resilient, and financially sound.

BRINGING 2025 TO A CLOSE IN STYLE: Celebrating with Flair

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 00:58:47 GMT

Sprinkle some holiday magic into your home, whether you’re snuggling with your favorite loved one, serving a family dinner or hosting a big, twinkling bash. Let me suggest some warm, stylish, and thoughtful touches that make your space reflect your unique energy to celebrate the holidays and usher in a new year. And if you’re hosting little ones or have four-legged friends, there are many beautiful, child- and pet-safe ways to adapt!

1. Real (or Real-Looking) Greenery with Lights

Nothing says holiday mood like softly glowing greenery. Drape over mantels, banisters, windows, and tabletops for instant festive charm. Traditionalists can stick with pine and fir boughs to beautiful effect. However, a touch of the unexpected, with leafier out-of-season choices, can really make a statement against a contemporary backdrop.

2. Colored Wine Glasses and Glass Mugs

Raise a glass to style! Colored glassware adds personality to your table no matter what goes inside them. But with festive pours like sparkling rosé, winter reds, mulled cider or hot cocoa, fun-toned and uniquely shaped glasses amp up your bar game.

3. Baby, It’s Cold Outside! Create an Outdoor Warming Nook

Keep the party cozy and romantic outside when winter winds blow. Set up a deck, porch or patio gathering area with comfy seating, blankets, lanterns, hand warmers and hot drinks. Layer the pillows and blankets, string up lots of lights, light the fire pit, fire up the heat lamps, and ladle out the warm drinks in insulated thermoses.

4. Heirlooms That Tell a Story

Pull out treasures from years past and mix them with new pieces that reflect this year’s vibe or what you’re manifesting for the year to come. Highlight that slightly broken nutcracker from childhood, use a special cookie plate that brings back childhood memories or introduce something really funky that speaks to you. Integrate old memories with new traditions.

5. Beyond Pine & Cinnamon: Candles Build Mood

Candles build ambience. Mix differing shapes (long and thin, multi-wick, votives and pillars), complementary scents (bourbon vanilla, cedar, and citrus spice) and colors (sky’s the limit) to achieve the look you aspire to.

6. Soft Pillows + Luxe Throws

Pile on plush pillows and cozy throws in rich fabrics like velvet, satin, knit, faux-fur, or wool. These instantly transform your living rooms from ho-hum to “ho-ho-ho.” Think deep greens, warm reds, muted golds, or jewel tones that tie into your overall palette.

7. Lighting Your Way to the Holiday Mood

Another route to an elevated holiday feel? Multiple light sources. Dimmers, string lights, candles, lanterns, and even fairy lights in vases add depth and warmth. Again, variety and layers help establish the mood you’re aiming for whether it’s an old-fashioned Dickensian charm or a mod New Year’s Eve energy.

8. Play with Unexpected Color

Tried and true holiday colors never disappoint, but pinks, teals, deep browns, purples and metallics inject a fresh, modern twist or a different kind of retro feel. If you don’t want to go all in, add little touches in your ornaments, bows, dishware, pillow and table linens.

9. Festive Table Styling

Keep your home party-ready before the food or guests even arrive. Mix creative chargers and placemats, layered dish shapes and colors, favorite napkin rings, linens, and the coolest or prettiest drinkware you have. Add greenery, runners, flowers, candles, vases, pinecones, ornaments, candies — whatever makes you happy!

10. A Holiday Playlist + Warm Beverages

Don’t neglect the tunes! Ranging from classic carols to jazz instrumentals to modern holiday jams, a great playlist sets the mood without overpowering conversation. Bluetooth speaker sets are affordable and let you pipe the melodies into all your entertaining spaces right from your phone.

Need inspiration? Check out these links! (Note: I am not affiliated with any of these companies and receive no commission for sharing them.)

Wishing you warmth, health and everything beautiful as you navigate the end of 2025!

BRINGING THE OUTDOORS IN: Living Beautifully with Plant Décor

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 21:11:13 GMT

As the end of the year approaches, many of us naturally begin to think about festive poinsettias, evergreen garlands, and tabletop trees—the familiar greenery that instantly brings warmth to winter holidays. But the sparkly joy of living with plants doesn’t need to end when the last ornament is packed away. Indoor plants deliver benefits that go far beyond seasonal décor. From purifying the air to adding texture, life, and personality to a room, plants are one of the most versatile design tools available.

And perhaps just as important—caring for plants may be good for us, too.

Why Plants Belong in Every Room

They Freshen and Humidify Your Environment

Plants are nature’s air filters. Many varieties help remove toxins and increase oxygen levels, and all plants release moisture into the air. Especially during dry winter months, this natural humidity boost can make a room feel more comfortable without relying solely on humidifiers.

They Add Texture, Color, and Dimension

Design-wise, plants are the “finishing layer” that brings spaces to life. Large fiddle-leaf figs create height and drama in a living room corner. Ferns and trailing ivy soften hard edges on bookshelves. Even a simple succulent adds interest to a desk or nightstand. Their organic shapes and varied textures break up the visual monotony of straight lines and manufactured surfaces.

They Fill Space—Beautifully

Have an awkward corner that feels empty or stale? A tall indoor tree like a rubber plant or kentia palm can transform it instantly. Looking for a centerpiece that isn’t another candle or bowl? A flowering plant such as a peace lily or anthurium adds elegance and gentle color without overwhelming the table.

They Can Support Mental Well-Being

Research increasingly suggests that caring for plants can reduce stress, support mindfulness, and create a sense of satisfaction. Nurturing something living—watering, pruning, repotting—offers a calm, grounding ritual in a world that moves too quickly. Even a few minutes spent tending to greenery can be a peaceful break from screens and schedules.

Decorating with Plants Throughout the Home

Living Room: Mix tall floor plants with medium-sized leafy varieties placed on stands, shelves, or side tables. Consider combining different textures, such as: broad-leaf calatheas, trailing pothos, and sculptural snake plants.

Kitchen: Herbs like basil, mint, rosemary, and thyme thrive with sunlight and keep fresh cooking ingredients close at hand. A row of small potted herbs on the windowsill is both practical and charming. The sight of a blossoming orchid on a kitchen island is always elegant.

Bedroom: Low-maintenance, air-purifying plants like peace lilies or spider plants are ideal. Their gentle presence contributes to a calm, restful atmosphere.

Bathroom: Humidity-loving plants such as ferns, orchids, or pilea thrive in the warmth and moisture. If you have limited shelf space, try a hanging planter.

Home Office: Studies suggest greenery can boost focus and productivity. Aloe vera, succulents, or cactus plants are perfect for desks or file cabinets—resilient and tidy. A tidy plant adds interest to your Zoom background too!

Common Houseplants to Consider

Snake Plant – Nearly indestructible; thrives in low light.
Pothos – Fast-growing and versatile, great for hanging planters or shelves.
ZZ Plant – Extremely low maintenance and tolerant of neglect.
Succulents & Cacti – Perfect for bright light and minimal watering.
Monstera – Trendy, sculptural, and dramatic.
Peace Lily – Flowering and air-purifying; ideal for bedrooms.

Where to Buy Indoor Plants

Retail stores that sell houseplants include Trader Joe’s, Home Depot, and Terrain, as well as your local nurseries and florists. Additionally, there are many companies that offer beautifully potted, ready-to-thrive plants delivered directly to your home. Popular options include:

The Sill – Known for its curated, stylish pots and beginner-friendly varieties.
Bloomscape – Delivers larger plants with detailed care instructions.
UrbanStems – Provides modern plant arrangements along with florals.
Easyplant – Offers self-watering potted plants.

Whether you’re looking for a single statement tree or a series of small plants to scatter throughout your home, these services make it easy to get started.

Safety First: Choosing the Right Plants for Homes with Pets and Young Children

Many houseplants pose little to no risk, but it’s worth being thoughtful about placement and plant types if you’re a parent or pet owner. Avoid preventable mishaps like knocked-over pots and spilled soil by choosing sturdy pots that won’t tip easily, placing plants on higher shelves if you have adventurous toddlers or cats and using lightweight planters in areas where falls could happen.

Limit health hazards by selecting non-toxic, kid-friendly, and pet-safe plants that fit beautifully into any décor style such as:

Spider Plant – Safe for pets, resilient, and great for hanging baskets out of reach.
Areca Palm – Non-toxic and adds lush tropical height without sharp edges.
Boston Fern – Soft, airy, and safe for pets who might take an interest.
Parlor Palm – Compact, elegant, and pet-friendly.
Calathea / Prayer Plants – Known for striking patterns and totally pet-safe.
Ponytail Palm – Easy care, sculptural, and non-toxic.
African Violet – A flowering option that’s gentle enough for households with pets and kids.
Haworthia (a succulent) – Similar in style to aloe but non-toxic.

Rules of Thumb (If Yours Isn’t Green) About Using Artificial Plants

Not everyone is destined to be a plant whisperer, and high-quality artificial plants have come a long way. They offer the same visual benefits (color, fullness, texture) without the maintenance or safety concern. Here are a few guidelines:

✔ Choose realistic materials. Look for silk, latex, or high-end synthetics with natural color variation.
✔ Use them sparingly and intentionally. A faux fiddle-leaf fig in a low-light corner or a faux orchid in a windowless bathroom can make sense.
✔ Pair faux with real. Mixing a few authentic plants with a couple of artificial ones keeps the overall effect natural.
✔ Keep them clean. Dust is a giveaway—wipe them regularly to maintain realism.

Artificial plants aren’t cheating; they’re a design choice. And in certain rooms or lifestyles, they can be the smartest option.

A Year-Round Invitation to Nature in Your Living Spaces

Plants aren’t just decoration—they’re companions, mood-lifters, and natural design elements that bring warmth and life into the home no matter the season. Whether you fill your space with lush, leafy greenery or add a few well-chosen faux plants, the goal is the same: to create a home that feels rejuvenating, balanced, and alive.

SMOOTH SALE-ING:The Benefits of Keeping Your Home Ready for Buyers

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 23:07:05 GMT

Whether you’re planning to sell your home next spring, five years from now, or not for decades, it’s always wise to think about how your home would fare if you did put it on the market today. From a designer’s point of view, this mindset isn’t about living in a showroom—it’s about living beautifully and intentionally. A “market-ready” home is one that looks cared for, feels fresh, and functions well for the people who live there now, while also maintaining the kind of universal appeal that future buyers value.

The Immediate Benefits: Clarity and Freshness

When you think about your home as if you were preparing to list it, one of the first things you’ll notice is clutter. We all accumulate items that no longer serve us—outgrown toys, duplicate kitchen gadgets, forgotten décor. Evaluating your home with a buyer’s eye helps you see what’s truly adding value and what’s just taking up space.

This exercise can be freeing. You might decide it’s time to create better systems for daily routines—adding shelving in the mudroom, refining closet storage, or simply establishing a weekly tidy-up habit. You’ll likely notice small maintenance tasks you’ve overlooked: walls that could use fresh paint, carpets ready for a shampoo, upholstery needing a deep clean, or window treatments begging for a dust.

These are modest efforts that instantly refresh your environment and elevate your sense of well-being. Clean, uncluttered spaces not only make your home more inviting—they make it feel larger, calmer, and more luxurious for you, your family and your guests.

The Medium-Term View: Smarter Upgrades and Evolving Spaces

Once your home is in good working order and visually refreshed, you can begin thinking in a more strategic way about upgrades. A market-ready mindset encourages you to make thoughtful investments rather than reactive fixes.

For example, maybe your children’s once-charming playroom now feels dated. With a few design changes, it can become a stylish and flexible teen space or even a home office. Perhaps your kitchen appliances are showing their age, or your bathroom could benefit from new tile and modern fixtures. Tackling these medium-scale projects in stages allows you to spread out expenses and make design choices that will stand the test of time.

By keeping resale appeal in mind—while still designing for your current lifestyle—you create rooms that serve you beautifully and maintain lasting value. A professional designer can help you navigate this balance, suggesting colors, finishes, and layouts that align with both your taste and broader market trends.

The Long Game: Protecting and Growing Your Home’s Value

Homes age just like anything else. Design trends evolve, materials wear down, and what felt fresh a decade ago can start to feel tired. Taking a long-term, market-ready approach means regularly evaluating what might make your home appear dated to a future buyer—and addressing it proactively rather than all at once when you decide to sell.

This could mean replacing heavy window treatments with lighter, more modern styles; rethinking old lighting schemes; updating flooring; or creating a more open, flexible floor plan. Even exterior elements—like landscaping, entryways, and paint colors—should evolve with time to maintain curb appeal.

Working with a designer who truly understands your home and your long-term goals can make this process smooth and cost-effective. Together, you can build a master plan for future renovations, ensuring that when the time does come to sell, your home is already several steps ahead of the competition.

Bonus Benefits: Peace of Mind and Pride of Place

Beyond practical considerations, there’s something deeply satisfying about living in a home that’s always cared for and current. Not a museum or mausoleum but, simply, tended to. Regularly updating, organizing, and refreshing your spaces fosters a sense of pride and peace. It prevents the overwhelm that often comes when deferred maintenance and outdated décor pile up.

You’ll also find it easier to entertain and welcome guests. And should life take an unexpected turn—a job relocation, family change, or the right opportunity—you’ll be in the enviable position of having a home that’s ready to show, not one that requires a frantic six-week makeover.

Design as an Ongoing Conversation

A home isn’t a one-and-done project—it’s a living environment that evolves along with you. Adopting a market-ready mindset is less about preparing to move out and more about making sure you love where you live today, while preserving flexibility for tomorrow.

By partnering with a designer who listens carefully to how you live, anticipates future needs, and keeps an eye on both aesthetic and market trends, you ensure your home stays timeless, beautiful, and adaptable—no matter what the future holds.

Let’s start the conversation.

REIMAGINE THE REMODEL: Taking Kitchens to the Next Level

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 01:36:12 GMT

When you think about a kitchen renovation, what comes to mind? Even though the kitchen is the heart of your home, for many, a renovation is simply swapping out tired cabinets, replacing old countertops, or choosing new appliances. They think this is the only option within reach, assuming that moving walls and changing configuration is out of budget or not technically feasible. But what if your kitchen could be much more than just a cookie-cutter version of what you already have? What if it could be thoughtfully designed around your life, your home, and your unique vision?

At Susan Corvo Redesign, we encourage you to Reimagine Your Home. We believe a designer who specializes in custom kitchens should truly help you think beyond what currently exists. They should listen carefully, gathering insight into what you love, what frustrates you, and how you want your kitchen to function day to day. BEFORE any options are considered, your designer should be asking questions like:

How often do you cook and do you enjoy it? Are you a gourmet chef or reheater? Do you batch cook for the week? Do you freeze a lot?
How often do you use your heavier small appliances such as mixers and food processors?
Are you more formal or casual?
What’s your daily household schedule?
Do you host friends and family on weekends?
Do you need a clutter-free environment with clever storage solutions?
Do you enjoy displaying favorite cookbooks, dishes or knickknacks?
Do you want the space to feel warm and homey or cool and sleek?

By weaving your wishes with an extensive knowledge of space, light, construction, and style, a client-centered, professional interior designer creates kitchens that are not only beautiful but also deeply personal.

A Kitchen That Fits Your Whole Home

Though often centered around an island, a new kitchen isn’t an island unto itself—it needs to feel harmonious with the rest of your home. With a keen eye, this designer ensures that the style, finishes, and flow of your kitchen connect seamlessly with adjacent rooms. An airy open-concept space, for example, should feel just as inviting from the living room sofa as it does when you’re prepping dinner. The result? A kitchen that looks like it is meant to be there—only better.

The Cabinet Guru Advantage

Cabinets are the backbone of any kitchen, and this is where a designer’s expertise and relationships work in the client’s favor. At Susan Corvo Redesign, we have years of strong relationships with three different cabinet manufacturers, offering the best level of customer responsiveness as well as options to arrive at the right balance of look, function, and budget. Susan’s cabinet partners include:

Fabuwood – Known for delivering high-quality cabinetry at an approachable price point, Fabuwood offers stylish designs and durable finishes that make beautiful kitchens possible without breaking the bank. It’s a go-to choice when clients want both value and style.
Kitchen Cabinet Distributors (KCD) – With a wide variety of styles, finishes, and quick availability, KCD provides versatile solutions that can fit nearly any design direction. Their options are especially appealing for homeowners who want efficiency, flexibility, and solid craftsmanship.
Woodland Cabinetry – For those seeking something unique and highly customizable, Woodland is the answer. Offering personalized design details, rich finishes, and a range of wood species, Woodland creates cabinetry that feels truly one-of-a-kind—ideal for clients who want to invest in a kitchen that reflects their distinct personality and taste.

Beyond the cabinets themselves, working with an experienced designer like Susan means you’ll get the most creative, optimized and livable configurations—maximizing storage, making awkward spaces usable, and ensuring every drawer and cabinet works for your household. And when it comes to installation, her guidance ensures everything comes together flawlessly.

More Than Design—A Partnership

Redoing a kitchen is a big step, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right professional collaboration, reimagining maximizes the rewards in terms of enjoyment, use, and long-term home value. So, if you’re ready to see your kitchen not just updated, but reimagined, start by sitting down with a designer who knows how to listen—and can bring those dreams to life.

Ready to take the first step? Call Susan for a 30-minute complimentary phone consultation.

LIVE LIKE A (BAREFOOT) CONTESSA: Display What You Use and Love…and More

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 01:44:10 GMT

We need more Ina Garten in the design world! Garten, aka the Barefoot Contessa, is an easygoing, accessible chef, a welcoming host on TV and in real life, and a masterful, aesthetic party planner. She rejects impersonal nonfunctional décor and embraces what is REAL, recently posting , “If you display dishes and trays that you actually use and love, your kitchen just feels alive!”

Ina’s outlook closely aligns with my design philosophy: Create rooms that are beautiful, unique, functional and imbued with authenticity. Read on for some examples of how I try to “ keep it real” with every space — from function to finishings.

Feature Favorite Furniture

You might think that your great-grandmother’s old rocker or that desk you thrifted in college are out of style and out of sync with a sophisticated design. I feel just the opposite. Furniture that has history and heart can (almost) always work well somewhere in your home. I am delighted by the challenge of not only utilizing well-worn and well-loved furniture but highlighting it.

When integrating “oldies but goodies,” consider:

Repainting for color that either blends seamlessly into your space or adds a need pop
Refinishing woods to change the tone (adding extra depth or lightness) or finish (matte, satin or gloss)
Reupholstering to refresh, totally change the look, or add comfort
Leaving original, sometimes well-worn, elements to highlight a piece’s history
Placing next to a photo that shows the piece’s family legacy or provenance

Connect with Your Accessories and Art

Whether a beloved heirloom or a newly acquired knickknack, you should be able to express why you enjoy what’s in your kitchen, on your coffee tables, bookshelves and on your walls. The reasons don’t have to be deep, but if your spaces are staged without your input, you’re not going to feel like you belong.

To select finishings and décor that makes you feel grounded, at home and happy, think about:

Adorning your shelves with books and authors you’ve read and love
Get creative in how you organize by size, topic or color
Feature oversize books from places you’ve traveled (or dream of traveling); museums you’ve visited; favorite food by cuisine, chef or restaurant; designers you love; and topics that matter to you

Selecting art and objects that make you feel good, get you thinking or generate conversation whether through color, subject, texture or size
Shop around at flea markets, tag/estate sales, Etsy, home stores and galleries to find art that resonates at all price points
Don’t forget that the choice of framing, size, hanging and placement can be just as impactful as the art itself
Remember that heirlooms are anything with personal history — don’t overlook items from your first apartment that “bring you back,” a childhood toy or grandma’s favored wooden spoon — old things in new places can add a fabulous touch

Establishing a personal style with pillows, throw blankets, lamps, drawer pulls, and cabinet hardware
Patterns and fabric textures can be mixed and matched or stay very uniform
Colors can be prominent and consistent around your spaces, add eye-catching pops, or kept in a mostly neutral palette
Metals can be bright and shiny, silver, gold or black, or a matte finish

Design for Real Living

Few homeowners want spaces that feels like museums filled with “Do not Touch” signs. Even the most minimalist or formal of us want to be able to relax where we live. Additionally, it’s important for our homes to align with how we live. For authentic design ensure you are:

Matching your layout to your daily flow of activity
Mugs and your sugar bowl are near the coffee maker; approved snack drawers or beverage refrigerators are at kid-friendly height
Placement of cutting boards cabinets, knife drawers and most-used cooking utensils make you say, “Yes, chef!”
Ironing boards, folding surfaces and shelves are convenient for those laundry perfectionists
Mudroom cubbies with hooks and baskets are organized for the busy family (and their pets) who want to effortlessly keep the chaos in check
Selecting furnishings that are appropriate for their use, household traffic, and your habits
Sofas for afternoons of marathon TV watching with the kids or football crew require hearty, stain-hiding fabrics
Bed linens and pillows should be selected based on whether you enjoy making your bed every day; don’t go layered if sheets and coverlets will end up in a tangle J
Stick to granite and quartz countertops if you can’t count on family members to be conscious of heat, drips and knicks; marble and other porous surfaces (even when sealed) require attention and maintenance

Stay True to Yourself

The real hallmark of authenticity (and of Susan Corvo Redesign) is that your spaces — how they look and the way they function — are a real reflection of you. Authentic design guides you away from trends that don’t resonate and toward what feels right whether you mix and match or stick to one aesthetic, shop high luxe or secondhand chic, embrace modern or traditional.

Ready to start designing? With a few conversations, I can help you pinpoint small changes or launch major projects. Let’s schedule a no-obligation introductory phone call. Visit susancorvo.com . In the words of Ina Garten, “How easy was that?”

DESIGNER, SHARE THY STUFF: What I Love in My New Home

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 16:36:34 GMT

Some interior designers have a very distinct aesthetic that informs all their engagements. And there are home and business owners who specifically seek out or want to replicate a particular, readily identifiable look. These spaces can be stunning and impressive, and move the industry forward, but are not necessarily affordable, desirable or appropriate for most clients.

My approach is more accessible, collaborative and flexible.

The Susan Corvo “brand” stamp is unique for each of my clients. I believe in elevating their design preferences, incorporating their beloved items, and adding function according to their way of living. This is achieved by imparting my experienced insight and guiding projects using sound tenets of form and function. (More on the details of that next month!)

With a “more the merrier” outlook, another aspect of my design practice is sharing with my clients my favorite things from the broadest architectural features to the smallest gadgets. These include the furnishings, finishes, shops, sites, materials, utensils, tradespeople, and organizational tips I feature on my social platforms. I recently moved my home and built a cool new showroom. Come visit! Since I’m in the process of renovating the kitchen, I thought it would be fun to highlight a few new and time-tested faves here. If you’re intrigued, let’s talk about how to bring them into your spaces!

Easy Reach but Out of Sight!

If you seek maximum convenience but minimum kitchen clutter, these innovative Rev-A-Shelf pullouts are a dream when redoing your cabinets! I’ve installed them near my cook top and island so I can easily access knives and my most-used cutting board on one side and all my utensils on the other. The shelves below the customizable containers are great for food wraps, baggies, or other cooking and baking items like scales or rolling pins.

No Toppling Trays or Cluttered Cutting Boards!

In the past, I struggled with serving trays that, though neatly stacked, were subject to chipping and a whole lot of clanking every time I went to retrieve one from the storage drawer or pantry shelf. No more! Using vertical dividers in my cabinet I can sort trays and boards by size, material, and use. Easy to find what I’m looking for. Minimal dropsies! I’ve installed them in the cabinets above my ovens and refrigerator for the largest, least-used or oddest-shaped trays that need more of their own space. I no longer need to bring that Thanksgiving turkey platter down to the basement. It is ready for the next holiday, neatly and conveniently stashed right in the kitchen.

Parlez-vous GE?

Inspired by commercial kitchens, French doors make this large-capacity Monogram double oven from GE both luxurious and practical. It bakes (regular and convection), dehydrates, roasts, and air fries. WiFi connectivity ensures you don’t burn those cookies or dry out that roast. Not inexpensive but good value for the quality, reliability and utility compared with other brands.

I’ve sung its praises before, but I really do also love the GE Advantium oven as a stand-alone or instead of the French door upper. It’s just so cool! Not only does it function as your everyday microwave, but it also toasts, broils, and convection bakes. Plus, it has a special speed oven setting that uses halogen technology to cook a range of fresh and frozen foods quickly and to perfection. Intuitive LCD menu makes operating it a snap.

Spice it Up!

Would it be wrong to nominate Vertical Spice for the Nobel Peace Prize? They have certainly stopped me from angry hollering! Gone are the days of toppling over the oddly stacked little jars or searching endlessly for that obscure seed used once or twice a year! These slide out racks come in all sizes and shapes and are very easy to install. They make your kitchen feel fancy and incredibly organized at an affordable price. The company has great customer service, too.

So Steamy!

If you haven’t figured it out, I’m really casting a wide net on the appliance front in my new home so I can host great gatherings, cook to my heart’s content and, most important, best advice clients on what makes sense for their lives, cooking preferences and eating habits. This plumbed Wolf professional grade steam oven great for convection baking and reheating food. Brings leftovers to life and makes healthy cooking by reducing the need for oil. Moisture brings out the natural flavor of your food.

Clearly Fabulous!

These clear acrylic Chiaro stools from CB2 stand out for style and versatility…and they are also surprisingly comfortable. Available in three leg colors (black, nickel and gold) and two heights (counter and bar), the stools would complement any combination of cabinet and countertop colors and materials. The look is clean and modern but soft and neutral enough to work with many style kitchens. I love them!

Again, the best features of your kitchen are the ones that work for your household rhythms and your tastes — both decorative and culinary! Let’s talk about re-envisioning your spaces.

TO DREAM THE POSSIBLE DREAM: Why It’s Always the Right Time for Design

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 21:33:25 GMT

Do you stare at your outdated kitchen, lose things in an unorganized entryway, or watch the dust collect in your grown kids’ forgotten bonus room? Do you ask, “When will I actually be able to make these spaces work for me?” Maybe the answer is now and later. Even if you’re not ready to submit permits, knock down walls or place furniture orders due to mortgage rates, high material prices or other financial or personal obligations, or both, it’s always the right time to start dreaming and designing your future spaces.

Start Designing Now

Building a relationship and planning with an interior designer early in the process is not just about drawings, shopping, style and finishes. It’s a strategic decision that pays dividends in clarity, efficiency, cost effectiveness, confidence and creativity. A designer explores the full potential of your home or apartment through space planning, concept development, visualizations and phased solutions. Whether your project is two months or two years away, having a plan in place ensures that when the time is right, you’ll be ready, you’ll minimize delays and avoid costly missteps.

New Home? Patience Pays.

Just moved in? It’s tempting to jump right into major renovations. But many design experts — and seasoned homeowners — suggest otherwise. A recent New York Times article, “ Why You Should Wait to Renovate ,” gives reasons why it’s smart to live for a while in a space before making big, permanent decisions. The elements that seemed urgent when you moved in might fade into the background, while new household patterns — like where natural light hits or which entry you actually use — become clear. According to the article, this “pause before the plunge” approach enables smarter, more functional upgrades in the long run.

In the meantime, engage a designer for smaller freshening-up projects — painting a few walls, swapping out light fixtures, upgrading hardware or installing new flooring — that improve comfort and aesthetics without locking you into a major project. They can work together with you on these initial changes while helping you slowly shape the larger vision.

When someone really knows your spaces, your lifestyle, aesthetic and priorities they can help you approach big renovations or additions with insight and efficiency. You won’t have to start from scratch when the time is right. From choosing materials to creating construction drawings to coordinating trades, your designer becomes a long-term collaborator who understands your home as well as you do.

The Luxury of Time

Designing without the immediate pressure of demolition also gives you the time to research, revise and reimagine. Together, you and your designer can experiment with layouts, identify what truly matters to your life, and make selections that align with your personal taste and future budget. It also gives you a clearer sense of project scope, which helps avoid the costly surprises that often come with rushed decisions.

Most of all, beginning the design process now helps you stay inspired. Living with unresolved design frustrations can start to feel defeating. But having a vision — even one that’s evolving — brings hope and forward motion. Whether you’re creating a mood board, budgeting for a future kitchen, or simply talking through options over coffee, you’re investing in the dream of a better space.

So you don’t have to wait for the stars to align. Let’s get started on your dream kitchen, sanctuary primary suite or future family room addition now.

I’M FLOORED!!! A Guide to Options for What Lies Beneath

Tue, 20 May 2025 16:28:23 GMT

Whether you’re remodeling one room or tackling a major renovation or addition, flooring is a key component of the overall design. The options are many, but your budget, traffic, location, style and needs will steer your selection. Let’s review the various flooring types for function and durability, look and feel — from practical to luxe. Understanding the pros and cons of each material can help you make stylish and smart decisions.

Hardwood

Nothing beats the warmth and timeless appeal of real wood, ever-popular in New England homes of all sizes and styles. Types include solid hardwood (e.g., oak, maple, walnut) and engineered hardwood — a layered construction that handles humidity better.

Pros:

Long-lasting and can be refinished multiple times
Adds value to your home
Available in a wide variety of species, stains and finishes

Cons:

Expensive compared to other options
Susceptible to scratches, moisture and warping
Requires regular maintenance

Linoleum

Often confused with vinyl, linoleum is made from natural materials like linseed oil, making it an eco-friendly choice. Linoleum has seen a design resurgence thanks to modern patterns and sustainability-conscious homeowners.

Pros:

Biodegradable and non-toxic
Durable and water-resistant
Available in a range of colors and patterns

Cons:

Can fade in direct sunlight
Needs sealing to protect against moisture
Less luxurious feel compared to other options

Carpeting

Soft underfoot and cozy, carpet remains a favorite in bedrooms and family rooms. Choose from wool for durability with a luxurious touch or nylon/polyester blends.

Pros:

Insulates against sound and cold
Comfortable and slip-resistant
The widest range of costs from affordable mass-produced rolls to the highest luxury custom carpets.
Available in endless textures and colors

Cons:

Prone to stains, allergens and wear in high-traffic areas
Requires frequent vacuuming and periodic deep cleaning
Not suitable for damp environments like bathrooms or basements

Tile Flooring

Tile is the go-to for high-moisture areas like kitchens and baths, but it can be used to stunning effect throughout the home in foyers, dens and, well, just about everywhere. Each kind of tile has a different personality, performance profile and price range. Some evoke old-world charm, many are perfect for transitional spaces, while others offer sleek high-style minimalism and modernism.

Marble

Pros: Elegant, natural veining, high-end aesthetic, variety of color palettes, timeless
Cons: Porous, can stain easily, requires sealing, pricey

Ceramic

Pros: Durable, easy to clean, budget-friendly
Cons: Can crack under impact, cold and hard underfoot

Porcelain

Pros: Denser than ceramic, water-resistant, great for indoor/outdoor use
Cons: Heavier, requires professional installation, costlier than ceramic

Other Natural Stones (Slate, Travertine, Granite)

Pros: Unique appearance, durable, flexible style, infinite options
Cons: Varying porosity, needs maintenance, cost varies widely, certain trendy stones can become dated

Luxury Vinyl Plank

Luxury vinyl flooring (LVF) is a popular choice for both residential and commercial spaces. LVF is a high-end, versatile vinyl that mimics the look of natural materials like hardwood or stone. LVP can be installed using various methods, including click-lock, glue-down, or loose lay. This flexibility allows for DIY projects or professional installation.

Pros:

Looks like wood or stone at a fraction of the cost
Water resistant, making it a fantastic choice for kitchens, bathrooms and damp basements
Soft underfoot and quieter than tile

Cons:

While durable, LVF can scratch, dent under heavy furniture or tear from sharp edges of chair or dresser legs
It may wear out more quickly than natural flooring
Doesn’t add the same resale value as natural stone or wood flooring

Whether you crave rustic warmth, soft comfort or sleek luxury, flooring is a foundational design decision that affects every step you take at home. Choose what best suits your lifestyle — and don’t be afraid to mix materials for function and flair! Unsure about how select the best flooring for your design goals and budget? Contact us to set up a complimentary, no-obligation 30-minute phone consultation.

APRIL SHOWERS: Ideas for a Fresh Bathroom Upgrade

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 17:20:11 GMT

As the views outside your home reach their bright, fresh, spring peak, are you noticing that your bathroom interiors are not keeping up? Puddles, splashes, humidity, foot traffic, soap residue, as well as other (ahem) unmentionables, really take their toll on your bathrooms. Whether you’re in your home for the long haul or planning to sell some time soon, perhaps it’s time to flush out the old and welcome in the new in one or more of your bathrooms.

Let’s explore a comprehensive array of ideas—from simple decor updates to full remodel strategies—that will help elevate your bathroom into a refined functional oasis.

The Softer Side: Refreshing Decor and Furnishings

A bathroom’s decor doesn’t stop at cabinetry and fixtures. Tactile and visual elements play a crucial role in setting the style and ambience. Consider these updates:

Affordable and fun, upgrading your towels and bathmats can change your whole look, adding a new touch of luxury, playfulness or calm. High-quality absorbent towels in neutral or colorful hues paired with patterned or textured bathmats can instantly transform the space. You can opt for quick-dry, eco-friendly fabrics that not only feel great but also contribute to energy savings in laundry routines. Fill a wall with your new towels hung on hooks in sets of three.

Choosing the right art can add personality and definition to your bathroom. From nature-inspired prints to modern abstract pieces, artwork tailored to your space’s color scheme helps create a cohesive environment. Floating shelves to display curated accessories or greenery can enhance the feel of a boutique spa, whimsical family bathroom or sophisticated powder room.

Bright Ideas: Lighting for Mood and Function

Beyond merely the practical function of illuminating the bathroom spaces, lighting in your bathroom sets the mood. Trend-forward LED fixtures, dimmable options and mirror sconces can be integrated to create both task lighting and ambient effects. Some models even incorporate smart technology, allowing you to change colors or adjust intensity via a smartphone app.

It’s All in the Details: Upgrading Hardware and Fixtures

Consider minimalist, angular hardware designs in brushed nickel or matte black for contemporary looks. Chrome, which always looks clean and fresh, works here as well.

For a heavy traffic bathroom, go high tech with touchless or sensor-activated faucets , adding a hygienic cool twist to your wash basin.

New cabinetry is always a plus. Just changing the style and color of your vanity can give the feeling of a totally new bathroom. Floating vanities not only create the illusion of more space but also offer opportunities to incorporate under-cabinet lighting and hidden storage solutions for a clutter-free aesthetic.

Innovative shower systems now offer a spa-like experience in the comfort of your own home. For example, multi-function shower panels combine rainfall showerheads, body sprays, and even steam features. Some systems provide digital controls, allowing you to set personalized temperature, pressure and even create programmed sequences for an indulgent bathing routine. Smart showers can be synced with your smart home system. Imagine starting your shower with a voice command and receiving personalized settings that adjust your shower based on your previous preferences.

Energy efficient radiant floors have moved from luxury to a practical home upgrade. Underfloor radiant heating allows for an even distribution of warmth throughout the bathroom without bulky space heaters. Modern systems can be controlled with smart thermostats, which not only help achieve the perfect temperature but also track energy usage for eco-friendly performance.

Eco-friendly and sustainable design features include:

o Low-flow toilets and faucets use advanced pressure-compensating technology that doesn’t sacrifice performance. Dual-flush mechanisms can further reduce water consumption. Some toilets also have seat heaters, dryers, and double as bidets.

o Modern tiles and countertops that are made from recycled or repurposed materials not only provide a unique visual element, they promote sustainability. Bamboo, for example, is a fantastic renewable resource option for vanities and shelving.

o Maximizing natural light reduces the need for artificial illumination during the day. Adding windows or skylights, when possible, can reduce energy use and they look great. Enhanced ventilation systems that are both energy-efficient and quiet improve air quality by reducing humidity and preventing mold growth.

Trends in Tile

Tiles can be used for neutral backdrops or bold design statements.

Current trends favor unique geometric layouts that break away from traditional designs. Subway tiles, when laid out in herringbone or vertical patterns, offer both a vintage feel and a modern twist.

Large format tiles create a sense of spaciousness due to fewer grout lines. Porcelain or natural stone in large slabs can elevate the bathroom look while being easy to clean.

Combining textured tiles with smoother counterparts can create visual interest and depth. Some homeowners even use accent walls to break up the monotony and add a touch of artistry.

Neutral palettes continue to reign, with shades of gray, beige and cream providing a backdrop that allows fixtures and accessories to stand out. That said, bold splashes of color or unique patterned tiles can add personality that works.

Planning a Complete Bathroom Overhaul

As with any total remodel, when it’s time to fully redo your bathrooms, a solid strategic plan ensures the best outcome. The fundamentals:

Begin by defining a clear budget. Prioritize the most critical infrastructure elements like plumbing upgrades, durable countertops and quality tiles. Decorative accessories can be part of the remodel or can be updated later.

Hire a designer and a contractor with experience in bathroom renovations to ensure that the basics are done right and modern technologies are installed correctly. Experts can provide insights into maximizing space (especially in smaller bathrooms), incorporating your tastes and needs, optimizing your investment, selecting the optimal finishings and fixtures, and integrating the high tech or eco-friendly solutions, or both, that you want.

Establish a realistic timeline with contingencies, and devise a plan for daily living for you and your family while your spaces are disrupted.

Conclusion

Embrace the new, flush away the old, and start planning for bathrooms that mirror the bright, energizing vibe of the season. Unsure where to start? Trying to determine the best use of your bathroom upgrade budget? Contact us to set up a complimentary, no-obligation 30-minute phone consultation.

SURVIVOR | RENO Getting through a Remodel with Your Sanity Intact

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 19:55:30 GMT

A home remodel, from a simple refresh to a full-scale renovation, can be both exciting and overwhelming. While the end result is worth it, the journey can be filled with dust, noise, disruption and unexpected challenges. To keep your sanity intact throughout the process, it’s important to approach the remodel with the right mindset, solid planning, and a strong support system. Here’s how to make your home transformation as smooth, engaging, fun and stress-free as possible.

1. Plan, Plan, and Then Plan Some More

The more you prepare before the remodel begins, the fewer surprises you’ll face along the way. Start with a clear vision of your project, including your budget ceiling, design preferences, and anticipated timeline. Work with your designer, whether an interior designer like me or in conjunction with an architect, to research contractors thoroughly, get multiple quotes, and establish a contract that outlines expectations clearly. Confirm end-of-day cleaning standards with your chosen contractor. If possible, have your contractor be specific about items like flooring types and window brands versus line item allowances, which tend to underestimate the end costs. Anticipate possible delays and have contingency plans in place.

2. Spring Cleaning and Decluttering, Whatever the Actual Season

We've covered this before. Getting rid of your excess "stuff" makes projects go so much smoother, from demo to finish. You'll almost always have a few months to prepare before project kickoff so make a plan to declutter and organize your space. Procrastinators, make an actual written schedule and check things off as you go! Pack away valuables, remove fragile items, and store essentials in a designated area. Label everything! Donate usable items if they won't fit into your new aesthetic or you just don't use or enjoy them anymore. If your remodel involves significant demolition or construction, consider renting a storage unit or onsite pod. Tightly cover unmovable items like china cabinets and pianos with plastic tarps, bungees and good tape.

3. Create a Temporary Living Plan

If your redesign affects key living areas, such as the kitchen or bathroom, plan alternative setups. I help my clients set up a mini satellite kitchen with a microwave, toaster oven, single induction burner and small fridge, if needed. If your bathroom is under construction, determine where you’ll shower and get ready each day. For a multi-room renovation, you may want to stay in a rental for the worst of it. Everyone's tolerance for chaos (even though it's organized chaos) is different.

4. Communicate Clearly and Regularly

Frequent communication with your designer/contractor team is crucial for keeping the project on track. Schedule regular check-ins to discuss progress, address concerns, and ensure everything is going according to plan. If issues arise, clear and open communication can help resolve them before they become major roadblocks.

5. Expect the Unexpected

No remodel goes perfectly according to plan. Newly discovered rotten subfloors, supplier delays, shipping damages — they are par for the course. Having a flexible mindset and a cushion in your budget can help you handle these bumps in the road without unnecessary stress.

6. Take Sanity Breaks

Living in a construction zone can be exhausting, especially with an active family or if you work from home. Get out of the house, whether it’s working from a coffee shop, going for a walk, or planning a weekend getaway. Giving yourself a mental and physical break from the remodel will help you stay sane and refreshed.

7. Keep Your Eye on the Prize and Celebrate Milestones

Amid the noise, dust and frustration, remind yourself why you started the remodel in the first place. Enjoy the progress. Be a part of the process. Visualize the finished product and how it will improve your home and quality of life. Celebrate when major steps are completed, like finishing demolition, installing new flooring, or seeing the first coat of paint on the walls. These moments remind you that the remodel is moving forward and that your dream home is within reach.

By staying organized, communicating effectively, and allowing yourself grace through the process, you’ll come out the other side with a beautiful, refreshed space—and your sanity intact! And remember....as a project manager, your designer can help offload a lot of the stress. We handle the unexpected, make decision-making costs and benefits clear and, hopefully, help you keep a positive sense of perspective.

Collab = Fab: Experts Working Together Create Your Best Kitchens and Baths

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 20:27:53 GMT

We all have our professional sweet spots and mine is designing gorgeous, highly functional and cost-effective kitchens and bathrooms. When you are solely focused on refreshing an outdated kitchen or bath as a stand-alone project, my specialty is to dig down into a homeowner’s functional needs and:

Re-envision/reconfigure your space to optimize storage, display, workflow and traffic
Suggest the best options for cabinets, appliances, lighting and fixtures
Provide connection to vetted contractors and tradespeople
Oversee the project from demo to occupancy

Whether you are a homeowner, a builder, an architect, or another designer, my expertise with kitchen and bath spaces, plus my long-term vendor relationships can be a tremendous asset to your project. I am eager to collaborate to deliver the best project outcomes!

Seamless cabinetry design and ordering made easy

I represent several high-quality cabinet suppliers, each offering a different consumer value and level of customization. (Visit my website for details and photos.) My familiarity with each manufacturer’s range of styles, materials and size options along with my experience designing the right layouts for each homeowner’s unique cooking, storage and entertainment needs, means clients end up with the kitchen and bath that is perfect for them.

Already have a ready-to-go cabinet design? I am delighted provide pricing, ordering and tracking, and quality assurance. When you order through us, I personally ensure a smooth process throughout. This is a benefit to consumers to price and quality check versus the big box stores or generic kitchen centers and to builders who may have provided their clients with cabinet allowances or are building homes on spec.

Are you an interior designer more focused on furnishings and finishes? If your time and talents are best utilized working on the aesthetics of your clients’ spaces (and maybe cabinet design confounds you), let’s work together to bring your vision to life. I’ll recommend cabinets that complement your colors, overall look and functional needs, and will align with your budget outlook. Depending on the project, you can white label the cabinet design or bring me in to advise.

See for yourself

Want a real sense of the differences between cabinet lines? It’s helpful to compare cabinet styles and materials in real life as well as view everything in different light sources. To that end, I can bring samples to you or your clients. You are also invited to visit my new Norwalk showroom where we can use my projection tools and apps to review plans and renderings, and adjust cabinets, islands, fixtures and appliances until we arrive at your perfect kitchen or bath.

Interested in how I can help your make your next kitchen or bath project a hassle-free showstopper? Let’s talk! 203.536.0712.

Finding the Perfect Home (Hint: It’s your Own!).

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 20:13:50 GMT

Does your household need a major change because your spaces aren’t functioning as you need them to? Is your hunt for a new property going nowhere fast?

Don’t keep spinning your wheels touring homes, only to be too late or outbid. With inventory exceptionally low and new mortgage rates high, NOW is the perfect time to re-envision your current home. Working together, we will find creative, practical and beautiful (!) strategies to address challenges and transform your living spaces.

Here’s why:

Complete Customization

It’s rare that you’ll locate a new home that checks off all the boxes. You’ll likely compromise on something. By building an addition or undertaking a renovation, we design the rooms exactly how you want them to look and need them to function — within the boundaries of your budget and zoning laws, of course.

Expanding your family? Build a bonus room over the garage or renovate your basement.
Transitioning to empty nest? Convert a bedroom into an office, hobby room or gym. Change that playroom into a sunroom for leisure and entertaining.
Growing your business? A separate structure on your property or an addition might be the answer.

Excellent Economics

Staying in your existing home can make good financial sense.

Leverage and increase the equity you’ve amassed after years of living in your home. Use that existing low-interest home equity line of credit to finance your changes and upgrades.
Major changes can cost less than you think. In many cases, moving walls (even with engineering sign-off) is just a fraction of the overall budget but makes a huge difference.
One of my clients added 3+ feet to her kitchen, allowing me to include a highly functional island in the design. The couple agonized over investing in such a giant undertaking. It ended up only costing them about $10K and, two years later, she still gushes about how much she loves the extra airiness and overall look.
Unless you’re making incredibly unique updates and additions (think huge built-in aquariums or exceptionally ornate, hard-to-change finishes), well-planned changes are great investments that can yield solid returns in an eventual resale.

Home Even–Sweeter Home

When you transform and engage in the design process, you build on good memories rather than moving on from them.

For some this means doubling down on the pride of your first home purchase by upgrading appliances and finishes.
For families moving into the teen years, it’s making spaces suitable for studying and hanging out with friends without losing the familiarity of the childhood years.
Locating affordable, smaller, turnkey homes with first floor primary suites is a huge challenge. So, for many of my empty nesters heading toward retirement, it’s “right-shaping” vs. downsizing. We explore how using larger spaces differently can be highly cost effective and nets a home that is fulfilling in all its uses, looks and flows.

Winter may not be ideal for house hunting but it’s a perfect time to start brainstorming, exploring and planning! Contact me to schedule your complimentary phone consultation.

Oh, My Garland: Gussying Up Holiday Spaces

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 20:56:53 GMT

Is getting your home holiday-ready a treasured task, filled with nostalgia and charm, or a tough chore? Whether you start counting down to beloved holiday traditions months in advance or have a case of the “bah humbugs”, having a plan for organizing and decorating make the whole process so much easier, time effective and enjoyable!

As one who embraces everything about the December cheer (except, perhaps, the New England cold temps), I am happy to share some (sparkly) nuggets of wisdom to transform your pumpkin spice interiors into happy holiday havens.

Highlight, Don’t Compete

Your decorations should complement your home’s layout and function. Avoid overcrowding and ensure there’s enough room for people to move comfortably during festive gatherings and everyday life. Make sure to Choose a tree that fits your space. A towering fir in a small living room might turn into an obstacle course. Opt for one that’s proportionate and place it where it can shine without hindering foot traffic.

Wreath Wrestling

Wreaths are timeless: real or artificial, traditional or eclectic. Where you hang them matters.

Best Spots: Solid doors, small walls, or above fireplaces. For fireplaces, ensure they’re not too close to flames for safety.
Avoid Glass Doors: Wreaths on glass often show their less attractive reverse side. Instead, hang them where they can be fully appreciated.

Reuse and Repurpose

It’s tempting to purchase just one more knickknack, centerpiece or decoration. (I mean, who can resist more sparkly greenery, felt pompom garland, or awesome candle?) But the best designs, memories and experiences often start with what you already have and love!

Classic Ornaments: Display vintage baubles in a modern glass bowl or jar for a stylish centerpiece.
Let it Stand Out: Elevate your nativity scene on a footed cake stand for an elegant touch.
Cornucopia of Light: Combine menorahs of different sizes in a group for a striking display and switch up candle colors each day for variety.

Repurposing isn’t just sustainable—it’s also a great way to connect with meaningful items and lifelong sentiments.

Au Naturel...or Not!

There’s something magical about natural holiday elements, but they’re not always practical.

Live Decor: Fresh greens, floral arrangements, and beeswax candles create the ultimate warm holiday vibe, especially with a crackling fire.
Artificial Options: For apartments, families with pets, young kids, or allergic types, artificial greens and flameless candles can mimic the charm without the risks.

Conserve Energy and Money

Decorating doesn’t have to drain your wallet or deplete the planet.

Eco-Friendly Lights: Use warm-white LED lights for a flattering glow.
Get the Lead Out: String lights should not have any frayed cords and should not contain lead for a toxic free, no risk glow.
Timers: Put your displays on timers to save energy and avoid forgetting to turn them off.

This leaves more room in the budget for holiday fun and gifts!

Creative Color Variations

Traditional red and green are classic, but you can tweak them to suit your interior style.

Rich Reds: Mix shades like brick, cranberry, and cherry for depth.
Greens: Experiment with kelly, pine, or even sage for a fresh twist.
Neutral Tones: Add taupe or velvet accents

Final words of advice: There is no wrong answer when it comes to holiday decorating. Get creative or stick to what’s always made your December joyful. That said, I always go “full Christmas” around my home and then…. take a few things away from each space or room to add balance, ensure everything gets its full due, and to complete a coordinated finished look.

Happy holidays!

Birds of a Feather: Avoiding Design Turkeys

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 18:56:15 GMT

Great design stands the test of time. When all the elements of architecture and interior styling are harmonious, a home, office or retail space can look beautiful and function effectively for the long term. Naturally, there are elements that will be updated based on technological advancements, wear and tear and popular tastes. But with well-designed spaces, a foundational core aesthetic will guide these updates.

How do you arrive at design that lasts?

Build your spaces and select your furnishings around solid principles.
Seek out experienced design professionals who can integrate your needs and tastes today into plans that are flexible enough for future occupants to make their own.
Avoid relying solely on what’s super trendy to drive your decision-making.

Let’s review some examples of when design could go askew and how I have addressed similar challenges.

Don’t Ignore the Basics

There is nothing wrong with pushing boundaries in your design if basic principles adhered to:

The design is functionally strong with well-designed zones and good flow
The scale and proportion are right between ceiling height, room size, furniture heft, as well as the people who will occupy the spaces
The amount of natural light, connection to the outdoors and window views are optimized
The spaces are livable and comfortable to live, work and entertain in
The architecture and engineering are structurally sound; layout and materials are sustainable and durable

Sometimes there is a tension between these principles and the homeowner’s vision. For instance, consider the clients who want full open concept and airiness in older, traditional homes. I love opening and connecting spaces — bringing modernity, flow and freshness to contrast into disjointed rooms — but removing too many interior boundaries (both visually and practically) is not advisable.

I’ve seen open concept design that was executed without regard for basic principles and the outcome was an aimless hodgepodge. The resulting home was stripped of its historical features and context (and probably some of its intrinsic value), lacked a logical flow and activity zones, needed more cabinetry and wall space for furniture placement and art, and forgot to factor in any need for privacy. This underlines the importance of clients doing the upfront work with an experienced interior designer and other professionals to produce the look and feel they want balanced with the structure, layout and furnishings that will endure.

Stay Uniquely Desirable

Another role of the designer is to steer clients toward evergreen choices, spaces and furnishings that work today, tomorrow and even for future buyers of the home. Highly personal choices may not translate well into the future or when the home is for sale to homeowners with different tastes.

For example, a room with an overly themed design (such as a space theme for a child’s bedroom or a very distinctive music collection-inspired living room) may not work as tastes change, children grow or appeal to future buyers, who might prefer something more neutral or adaptable. Pulling down built ins, repainting or redesigning these rooms can be time-consuming and expensive, especially if wallpaper or unique finishes are difficult to remove.

Again, this is not to suggest that a client shouldn’t add their own flair, select distinctive favorite colors, or use a space for a specific, albeit unusual, function. Everyone’s homes and workspaces should elicit joy! Rather, designers should help clients consider the long-term viability of their spaces and the future costs of updating or renovating as needs change.

Weigh Your Trend Options

Designers innovate, popular styles evolve, social norms change… and “everything old is new again” certainly describes the ongoing mid-century modern craze. As a homeowner, you should freely embrace trends when they meet functional needs, match with your vision, and when they deliver good quality for the price points. However, in recent years I’ve found some trendy choices, in both broad design and specific items that I think need to be deeply considered or further researched/improved before committing.

Open shelving , especially in kitchens, has been a popular trend for a while now.

Pros: Great for displaying favorite dishes, glassware or decorative items.
Cons: Takes a commitment to dusting and tidying if items are in use. Can become cluttered and, over time, items can look dated.

The ultra-minimalist, all-neutral vibe is ubiquitous.

Pros: Sophisticated, minimalist interiors and neutrals can be really beautiful, dramatic, rich and/or calming.
Cons: Minimalism can feel too impersonal or sterile if it’s devoid of personal touches, pops of color or lacks layered textures. There needs to be a balance of warm neutrals to avoid the museum feeling and make it approachable for the next potential owner.

Smart homes, appliances and devices are no longer a futuristic vision or only for the rich and famous.

Pros: The ability to optimize your home cooling and heating, adjust your music volume, or turn off your oven via your smart phone is great for convenience, safety, economics and the environment.
Cons: Avoid buyer's remorse. Think about whether the “smart” factors are actually overengineering a simple task and creating costs that might not be worthwhile for you. (How important is it for you to see inside your refrigerator or program the heat on your toilet seat?) Also, interfaces and sensors can be glitchy, so do your research on items like automatic faucets before purchasing. Finally, consider how new the technology is and how often it changes before determining what you’re going to build into your home.

Open-concept bathrooms , with minimal or no walls separating the shower from the rest of the bathroom or bedroom, are a trend in luxury homes and modern apartments.

Pros: Creates a sleek, spa-like feeling. There are no shower curtains, doors or small water closets to break up the open, luxurious space.
Cons: Impractical for a family or future homeowners who value privacy. Many people may not want to shower in full view of the rest of the bedroom or the living space. Additionally, it can be tough to keep such spaces clean, as splashing water and steam can affect the rest of the room.

Designing spaces that you and future owners will love for generations should be a creative and collaborative process, driven both by what you love and need. Optimizing the function and value of the home requires a balance of vision, budget and experience. This ensures the proper consideration of fundamentals, accounting for functionality and injection of creativity.

It’s the Little Extras that Make a Big Impact

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 18:29:12 GMT

Throughout the course of any of my design projects, the bulk of my energy is spent on the big, fundamental aspects of the home or office. Designing room layouts, moving walls, configuring cabinets, selecting flooring, lighting, appliances and fixtures — these are the building blocks of every client engagement.

However, creating living and working spaces that fulfill functional needs, align with clients’ tastes, and offer a good return on investment is not all that differentiates each design. It’s the highly personal touches that truly make each job unique and raise each client’s “joy quotient.” These don’t have to be expensive purchases or customizations, just details that feel special every time they are seen or used. Let me share some of the examples that our clients totally love.

Kitchen Organization Nirvana

A kitchen is the nexus of home activity whether a client is a master chef or a take-out king. Based on how the kitchen is used, by whom, plus the personal style and habits of the homeowner(s), the meaningful extras could be:

Drawer inserts for knives (to keep them out of sight, in size order and sharp) or customized to a specific array of utensils and serving pieces.
Cabinet dividers that keep clunky cutting boards and baking sheets easy to see and access.
Spice organizers that slide out so every jar is quickly found — especially if the more compulsive among us keep them alphabetized.
A separate hot beverage station with designated storage or display for coffee beans, tea bags, mugs and, maybe, a minifridge for milk. Coffee machines can look sleek and attractive no matter the price point but some of the high-end espresso makers are works of art.
One or two glass front cabinets to display favorite barware, art objects, bowls, cookbooks or knickknacks.
A brightly colored standing mixer that is the center of a baker’s world!
A refrigerator drawer for juice pouches and kids snacks.

Bathroom Spa-aaah

What elevates a basic bathroom experience? The possibilities are endless and it’s so much fun collaborating with clients to create a heavenly atmosphere for each time they bathe, shower, get dressed or, um, “ascend the throne.” A few of my favorite ideas:

Heated floors which are easy to install and are completely programmable.
Heated towel racks for a warm post-shower embrace.
Give your routines a bright boost with a quality adjustable makeup mirror and a lighted medicine cabinet.
Installing an adjustable shower head and maybe some extra jets to get squeaky clean and enjoy a relaxing water massage.
Even a tiny bathroom gets a boost from some very ornate or modern statement hardware. You can go super luxe if you only need a few knobs or pulls.
Enhance the glam by building in a dressing or makeup table with great lighting, a statement bench or stool, and storage for all your cosmetics and hair products.
Having hand soap and other products in pretty bottles can add just that minute attention to detail that makes a bathroom look complete.

Don’t Sleep on These Bedroom Enhancements

With the bed being the central room element, I’ve shared my love of linens in previous musings, so you know how many options there are for upping the bed ante like:

Buying the best quality sheets that make sense for your budget. Look for good cotton, eco-friendly bamboo, soft jersey flannel or crisp linen.
Adding one or two fabulously different decorative pillows to draw in the eye. Vary patterns, tones, colors or textures.

Beyond the bed, how cool are…

Built-in televisions that angle down from the ceiling or emerge up from a piece of furniture?
Unique “statement” bedside lamps or sconces for style and comfortable reading?
Awesome night table finds that are anything but ho-hum or matchy-matchy?
Remote control blinds so you can check out the morning weather without leaving the comfort of your bed?

Happily Working, or Working Out

Making basement, attic, extra bedroom or other spaces into offices, gyms, and game or craft rooms is all about the special extras. Think about integrating these features harmoniously into the overall design of your home:

Built-in cabinets that securely hold hand weights and store workout extras like bands and balls.
Springy flooring.
A sewing cabinet or fold up craft table.
Surround sound Bluetooth speakers, either built-in or plug-in, high-tech or basic.
Treadmill and variable height desks let you do your 10,000 steps while working on documents or presenting on Zoom.

Our collaboration and needs exploration with clients helps uncover their design and lifestyle dreams. The relationships we build inspire me to find the unique extras that differentiate their home from any other, delivering quality design that’s a step above — and LOVE — to their spaces!

A Moving End to Summer!

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 18:17:35 GMT

I recently relocated my home and office a few towns over. The process of packing/unpacking, organizing, moving, and renovating has certainly forced me to practice what I preach to my clients! It’s reinforced many of my core values about customizing design around individual taste and function, while balancing some tried and true principles, practicality and an eye for resale.

So, before you move to a new home or office, let’s review the basics.

Start with what you love

Before you begin wrapping up and labeling breakables and setting aside valuables, walk around your current home. Reflect on what gives you a smile, a sentimental boost, a sense of calm or helps truly define your taste. Then ask yourself:

Can I imagine my new home without these items? Take the “must haves” with you and we’ll incorporate them into your new spaces.
Am I attached but I feel like it’s time to start fresh and style anew? Don’t let guilt or “what if” hold you back. Sell, donate or gift your item to be loved by someone else.
Do I have cool items that are underutilized or hidden among my current décor? Whether decorative or functional, let’s think about giving them new life in your new home!

Tackle a little organizing every day

Even the most minimalist of us have lots of “stuff” that can be daunting to organize and move. (In my assessment you truly only regularly use 20 percent of what you have.) My approach is to start early, break up the home into manageable chunks and begin with the rooms and items you use least frequently. Throughout the process always have boxes handy for donations and or items to sell. Be tough and objective. Less is more. Honestly!

My first-in-moving-boxes focus has generally been:

Dining room – formal dinnerware, flatware, glasses, serving pieces, etc.
Living room/library/den – fragile decorative items/tchotchkes, objets d’art, books
Bar – glassware, infrequently used alcohol, shakers and trays
Kitchen – serving platters, obscure (but occasionally needed) small appliances, extra sets of dishes
Unused bathrooms and guest rooms including linens and towels
Closets – out-of-season coats, shoes and boots, sweaters, sports equipment, holiday décor, etc.

In my experience, if you’re doing it all yourself, remember the 80/20 rule. The first 80 percent of your possessions, only uses up 20 percent of your decision-making power and packing energy because it’s very clear what needs to be done. It’s the final 20 percent that can be disproportionately stressful — it’s more time sensitive, it’s composed of smaller uncategorized items, it’s things you need to use up until the last minute. So, the more you can clear out early, the more space you’ll have to work with in those final, inevitably chaotic days.

On another note, painter’s tape and Sharpies can be your best friends. Be clear about what is in your boxes and their destination. Same is true for furniture, lamps, and rugs.

Prioritize your new home’s projects

If your new living spaces are in 100 percent move-in condition, congratulations! If not, embarking on what needs to be done to make it YOUR home is a matter of budget, timing and lifestyle. Only you know what you can live with and what you can afford in the short- and longer-terms.

Some thoughts to get started:

Are you a large family that’s all about eating together and your new home’s kitchen is kind of tired? Here are some options:
Make a plan for a renovation so you can budget for the future work and also redesign with the future changes in mind.
Consider replacing one or all of the cabinets, countertops and/or the backsplash without changing the footprint.
Paint cabinets for a simple refresh.

Can you tell the home was well-loved by pets and kids? Start life in your new home with a freshening.
Paint, paint, paint to make the look and feel your own
Refinish wood flooring
Replace worn-out carpeting

Do the bathrooms feel more-than-lived-in? Think about updating with some never-used bathroom furnishings and fixtures.
Upgrade to sparkling new vanities and countertops; available at all price points and levels of customization
Exchange the hardware for a low-budget makeover
Install one high-end item like a towel warmer or beautiful light fixture to up the luxe factor

It’s hard work but hopefully your move, like mine, lands you in spaces that give you joy, security and optimal functionality! I’m here to help refer the best movers who can handle any items and assist you in readying your new home for an efficient and happy transition.

Making Your Bed…And (Happily) Lying in It!

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 12:08:59 GMT

If you’re like us, making the bed is never a chore. Smoothing the sheets, fluffing the pillows, assembling the shams and folding the comforter or coverlet “just so” gets our designer hearts pumping! Likewise, it is always a delight helping clients envision, source and assemble the perfect bedding to anchor each of their sleep spaces.

Select the eye-catching, comfortable, quality bedding for you best night’s sleep by considering these factors:

Spa Ah, Va-va-voom or Multipurpose Room

Before building your bed design, focus on the vibe you are trying to achieve and your usage of the space. Also, think about the overall home style, your flooring and your wall paint to narrow down your options.

How do you want to feel when you enter the room, when you go to sleep and when you awaken? The desire for a restful, calming neutrals-based sanctuary versus a room that feels energetic and vibrant will lead you in vastly different directions.
Are you sharing the bedroom? Ensure both members of a couple have a voice and/or each child sharing a room will feel happy and function well with your choices.
Is the room just for sleeping and dressing or does it serve other purposes such as an office or reading nook? If the latter, watch out for scale. You don’t want your bed and bedding to overcrowd the space — visually or literally.

Talking Sheet

New sheets are our easiest and most cost-effective bedroom makeover secret weapons. While you can never go wrong with basic white or cream, that may not be your thing and, again, the options for colors and patterns are infinite. With your goals in mind, we start by talking about sleep “feel” to narrow them down. In other words, is your sleep nirvana fabricated on a bed that is:

Tightly made with crispier, stiffer sheets? Go with cotton percale or linen sheets.
Soft and cloudlike? Purchase the highest thread count you can afford. Egyptian cotton is wonderfully luxurious. However, if you’re a hot sleeper, keep in mind that higher the thread counts may mean a less breathable fabric.
Sensuously silky? Shop sateen cotton, bamboo or silk blends.

You can find high-quality sheets at every price point from Costco and Target to newer online companies such as Boll and Branch and Brooklinen to luxury brands like Schweitzer Linen and Frette . Rotate between solids, patterns, stipes or mix and match between sets!

Topping it Off

Shopping for the perfect top layer is the fun part! Your quilt is the element that can sets the overall tone of the room, pulling it all together.

Duvet covers are classic and washable. Additionally, you can change the inner comforter weight based on the season...though some folks struggle a bit to keep duvets from getting twisted if the insert isn’t exactly the same size. We adore a simple, solid or tone on tone duvet for a sophisticated look and feel. If monochromatic isn’t for you, add some pillows of differing shapes, patterns and complementary colors for movement, fun and depth.
Comforters make bed-making easy and your bed inviting. Based on your preference, choose poly- or down-filled, puffy, tufted, pleated or flat. A classic stripe, geometric or fun nature-based pattern sets the mood.
Quilts and coverlets are summer staples or bottom-of-the-bed winter accents. Depending on the edging, shape, sheen and texture, they can be uber formal or cottage casual. Whimsical designs are wonderful for youth and guest bedrooms, beach and ski houses, or to throw over a bedroom reading chair! We opt for the softest of cottons.

Skirting the Issue

If you don’t have a platform bed, bed skirts can hide an unsightly metal frame and give you a finished look. (You may also see them referred to as dust ruffles.) Bed skirts can be loose and flouncy, straight and tailored with neat pleats, or quilted with some dimension. A Susan Corvo Redesign favorite is the Standard Textile Circa bedwrap. It’s sturdy, easy-to-install, comes in many colors and truly mimics the look of a platform base.

Send us your feedback on your favorite bedding products! Visit our website , post on our social pages or email susan@susancorvo.com with your comments and ideas! If your bedroom is feeling less than inspiring and you need help getting started on a refresh, contact us for a complimentary phone consultation.

COOL SUMMER! Some of My Favorite Stuff for Your Spaces

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 19:05:03 GMT

In searching for unique solutions to clients’ goals and spatial, lifestyle and budgetary challenges, we have come across incredible products and services to integrate into our “go to” portfolio. So, in celebration of the season of fireworks, splashing in the waves and a thunderstorm or two, we’re making some noise this month and showcasing some of these cool things. Consider them for your next project — be it a one room redesign, an addition, a whole house renovation or a new build.*

GE Advantium Technology
Whether you’re a master chef, reheating take out or somewhere in between, an Advantium oven offers a multitude of awesome features.

• It can function as a microwave, convection oven, toaster, broiler and speed oven
• Over-the-range or wall oven styles available
• Sleek design
• Intuitive menus so you don’t have to refer to the user guide
• Easy-to-clean cooking trays
• While can be more expensive than a basic microwave, the additional functionality makes the Advantium a good value

Our favorite thing: The speed cook is like magic! Using a combination of halogen heat and microwave, speed cook produces perfectly finished (and fast) meals. It crisps and browns fish, poultry and meat without overcooking the inside. Keeps food juicy without any of that weird microwave texture. Baked potatoes are soft and fluffy in minutes. And even the stickiest marinades clean in seconds.

Macy’s Radley Sofas and Sectionals
It’s not showy or highbrow, but what makes this sectional cool is its versatility, durability, affordability and neutral design. I recommend the Radley for clients redoing a family room, den, playroom or vacation home.

• Clean lines work with a variety of interior design tastes and styles
• Comes in a range of colors and the fabric is easily spot cleaned
• Gets great reviews, including from households with young kids and pets

• Configurable for large spaces or cozy nooks
• Super comfy and deep cushions
• Available with a chaise or sleep sofa to accommodate an extra guest or two (if you want to let the secret out ��)
• Some popular colors and sizes are in stock and ready to ship

Our favorite thing: The sofa’s clean lines work with a variety of interior design tastes and styles. You can dress it up with more formal pillows, rugs and complementary furniture or keep it the fun and casual sofa you want to plop into, put up your feet and not worry about.

served Vacuum-Insulated 2L Pitcher
This pitcher is a bit of a splurge but worth it. It does double duty while looking adorable! Available online from the manufacturer or other major sites, the company also offers serving bowls.

• The copper-lined interior keeps drinks at whatever temperature they start at — ice cold or steaming hot!
• Stainless steel construction makes it great for indoor or outdoor gatherings
• Tightly sealed lid and no condensation means you can travel with it full and not worry about spills

Our favorite thing: Pick a color! The pitchers (and equally fabulous serving bowls) come in every color of the rainbow, plus metallics and neutrals. Buy them as housewarming or holiday gifts that deliver great style and utility!

FLOR Carpet Tiles
The creative design possibilities are endless with carpet tiles, so you can really think beyond the typical area rug. Whether solid or patterned, simple or dynamic, FLOR provides options and features that work in any space, even the most actively trafficked parts of the home or office.

• Select from different piles and textures
• Totally custom or pre-designed configurations and sizes available
• Eco-friendly production, materials and policies
• Cost effective and easy to clean because you can always replace just one tile

Our favorite thing: FLOR allows you to build your own rug with their Design Studio tool. Enter your dimensions and start from a blank canvas, pattern template or pre-designed rug and customize from there. The tool calculates the price on the spot, so you can play around with different options. At Susan Corvo Redesign, we love to help our clients create these most unique floor coverings that really express their style!

Vertical Spice Cabinet Organizers

If you’re like us, constantly bringing home the latest intriguing new Trader Joe’s concoction, your spice cabinet may be getting really crowded and turning into a precarious pyramid of little bottles. With these organizers from Vertical Spice, you don’t have hunt around, taking things out and putting them back in, every time you need an ingredient.

• The spice racks come in a variety of depths, heights and widths to optimize your cabinet space and fit a variety of bottle sizes
• Racks slide out and the ends are acrylic for to easy label viewing
• Comes fully assembled and is easy to install – all you need is a Phillips screwdriver
• Self Help Product Selector guides you to the right size units for your space

Our favorite thing: The bottles are held in place with flexible elastic bands, to accommodate a range of bottle shapes or sizes. Kind of like mini bungee cords! Replacement parts are readily available if needed.

We welcome your user feedback on any of these or other cool stuff! Visit our website, post on our social pages or email Susan@susancorvo.com with your comments and ideas!

*These are objective reviews. We do not have affiliate links or referral commissions on any of these products.

(Fill in the Blank) is the New Gray: Bringing Color to Your New Spaces

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 14:21:18 GMT

The past decade of home design has been dominated by gray. Gray paint, gray furnishings, gray stone, gray cabinets. Prevailing trends centered gray as the foundation of a clean, calm, neutral, universally attractive environment. In 2024, however, all the ubiquitous social media ins and outs lists are suddenly shunning this reliance on gray. What is the replacement color?...Whatever you, the homeowner, like!

While silver, slate, charcoal and all mixes of gray-beige can create stunning interiors, we’re excited that the emphasis for color these days is on personal choice and individuality instead of mundane trends. Across the color wheel, any color can be successfully incorporated into your spaces.

Explore colors that resonate with your style! Just consider some of these guidelines below to successfully incorporate your colors into your cohesive home design.

Color Selection and Inspiration

Experiment with samples: Always test paint samples on your walls before committing. Bring home fabric swatches. Colors can look very different under various lighting conditions, at different times of day and against different contrasts.

Seek inspiration: Look at design magazines, online galleries and social media. Draw inspiration from items you love such as a vase, a piece of artwork, flowering plant, or even a favorite piece of clothing.

Consult professionals: If you’re unsure, an interior designer can help guide your choices based on your tastes and lifestyle.

Understanding Tone

Colors have a profound impact on our emotions and moods. For instance, blues and greens are calming, while reds and oranges can energize a space. Certain yellows might be too stimulating for a bedroom but perfect for a kitchen or living area where you want to feel energized. Think about how you use a space and how you want to feel when you’re in it. Remember that you can always intensify or mute a color by mixing in primary colors, white or black until you find that just-perfect shade.

Additionally, colors will look different based on the application and size. For example, fuchsia or lime green might delight in a velvet pillow, silk dining room chair seat fabric, or coffee table tray. Apply the same colors to a primary suite duvet or family room wall, and you might not get the same joyful effect.

Balance and Flow

To create a cohesive look, ensure there are elements of continuity between rooms. This doesn’t mean every room needs to be the same color, but there should be a harmonious transition from one space to the next. Some ideas:

If a bold color dominates one room, consider bringing an accent of the same color into the next room or using the bold color in a complementary shade elsewhere in your home.

Build a palette: Choose 3-5 colors that complement each other and use them consistently throughout your home.

Balance bold and neutral: Pair bold colors with neutrals to avoid overwhelming the senses.

Layer textures and patterns: Adding different textures and patterns can help balance colors and create a more dynamic space.

Think Ahead

When choosing colors, it’s important to consider your long-term plans. Are you planning to stay in your home for many years or is a move on the horizon?

Bright, bold colors can be incredibly personal and might not appeal to everyone. That high gloss peacock blue fireplace, though super cool, might just be too personal and seem daunting to a future buyer. If you’re planning to sell your home soon, neutral colors can make it easier for potential buyers to envision themselves in the space. For color that's not limiting, consider:

Feature walls: Use bold colors on a single wall or in a small room that can be easily repainted, if necessary.

Accessories: Incorporate bold colors through accessories like cushions, rugs and artwork that can be changed without too much hassle.

Timeless choices: Opt for timeless color choices for larger, more permanent elements like cabinetry and shower tile. This doesn’t only mean white, beige or gray. Navy, black and earthy greens can also fit a broad aesthetic in cabinetry and accessible tile options are endless.

Personalizing your home with color yields satisfying results when implemented strategically and with heart. If you need help navigating your route to color, talk to us! We can ask the right questions, truly listen and understand your point of view. With our understanding of the impact of color, we’ll create balanced spaces that flow and are welcoming, attractive and timeless!

Thinking Outside the Dining Room: Making Your Home Your Own

Thu, 02 May 2024 17:50:23 GMT

Who says you must live within the confines of your home’s original layout, traffic flow and usage? Increasingly, homeowners are rethinking spaces to meet evolving needs for themselves, work and a multi-faceted family life. Whether an apartment, a center hall colonial, a midcentury ranch, split level, or any form of new build, you can decide the best use of the square footage!

Here are some ideas for turning tradition upside-down for happy living.

Dining Room Revision

The years of reserving your formal dining room for “fancy” meals and holidays are past. Many households are eschewing the domain of grandma’s china and crystal for a more casual feel, refocused purpose, and a great connection to the kitchen and living spaces. And you don’t always have to move walls. Consider my clients who never used their dining room, except as a homework center and repository of day-to-day “stuff.” For them, we doubled down and turned it into a room-size pantry and kid center filled with organized cabinets and purposeful workspaces. It complements the big open kitchen but functions as a totally separate space. Likewise, other clients may opt for a totally open concept by opening up a wall to incorporate the dining room space into the kitchen. This can make room for a huge island, chef’s appliances, a large pantry and a ton of storage throughout.

No Plastic Covers on the Sofa

Remember Aunt Helen’s pristine living room with the “fancy” furnishings? The one you weren’t allowed to enter for fear of breaking something? What a waste of great space! While it’s wonderful to showcase treasured items, it’s even better to highlight them in a room that gets used. My clients are typically opting to make a living room live up to its name by using more family- and pet-friendly furniture, sticking to more casual fabrics and patterns, and adding a function beyond entertaining guests with canapes. Living rooms afford great spaces for home office nooks, TV corners, wet bars, libraries and game centers.

Bygone Bedroom

With all the options for hideaway bedding and convertible furniture, don’t hesitate to redesign an extra bedroom or guest suite around something other than hospitality. As we’ve discussed in past blogs, homeowners should have dedicated spaces for activities they are passionate about! Whether its crafts, music, writing or fitness, a refocused bedroom can create a sense of importance and joy. Even more dramatic, steal that space for a dream primary suite closet or bathroom if that fulfills your dreams!

At Susan Corvo Redesign, we are only bound by the goals and budgets of our clients. If you are stumped by your current space, call Susan for truly innovative ideas. She thinks beyond the existing blueprint and historic use to create rooms that rock, homes that hum!

Love Your Home At All Stages of Parenthood

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 19:33:21 GMT

A stunning look is only one side of a designer’s equation. Equally important is how your home will function for you and your growing family. Every family dynamic is unique, and your best home design should align with your lifestyle goals and realities as a parent.

Infants and Toddlers: Safe and Stimulating Havens

The early years are about creating adorable and secure environments. We focus on safety first, with well-constructed furnishings, non-toxic paints and fabrics, and materials that are easy to clean. We also prioritize flexibility and function by sourcing cribs and changing tables that can be handed down or are convertible. For kitchen and bath, we ensure that drawers, pantries, cabinets and closets neatly accommodate bottles, bibs, sippy cups and bath toys.

School-Age Children: Creative and Organized Spaces

As children enter school age, their world expands. Their bedrooms and playrooms should also evolve into spaces that foster creativity and learning. Our designs include dedicated areas for homework and play, featuring adjustable storage systems, the right lighting and varied surfaces like magnetic or chalkboard walls. For fun time with family and friends, we’ve designed cool movie-watching nooks, art areas (with a designated place for all the supplies) and kid-accessible snack drawers and beverage centers.

Teens: Privacy and Expression

As they forge ahead in their quest for independence, we gladly collaborate with your teens to make their vision a reality and help bridge the gap with parents to arrive at satisfying compromises. We design rooms that feel more grown up with stylish furnishings and adaptable design elements. As teens can mean a lot more “stuff,” we ensure that mudrooms and family spaces have plenty of storage and places for sports equipment, video game consoles, backpacks and music.

Empty Nest: The Next Chapter

When children leave home, parents (especially moms!) begin to redefine their spaces. We see this as an opportunity to help you rediscover old hobbies, refocus a professional workspace, and to zhuzh up some of the child-focused rooms with grownup flair. This may mean converting children's bedrooms or playrooms into offices, gyms, craft or guest rooms. Or sometimes we simply convert that poster-covered, angsty teen space into a more sophisticated, peaceful home-from-college retreat.

Across styles and budgets, at Susan Corvo Redesign, we aspire to create smart spaces that evolve with you and your children — from the first baby steps to the quiet of an empty nest. Overlaying a forward-looking strategy on your choices today ensures that the changes you make in the years to come can be implemented efficiently and keep your overall home design intact.

Feathering Your Empty Nest: DESIGNING FOR THE NEXT PHASE

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 16:19:19 GMT

The empty nest can be notoriously bittersweet. Yay! Your fledglings have flown and are leading independent lives. Yet, there's an undeniable pivot, a need to reassess, a desire to renew. This extends beyond the philosophical; sometimes redesigning your home is the first way to manifest a new phase in life.

The first questions to ask when considering this “round two” home renovation is, what are your goals? Are you renovating to add monetary value to your property, aiming to enhance your personal happiness and the efficiency of your living space, or some hybrid equation?

Next, consider financial factors. Typically, estate planners advise undertaking any significant home renovations about ten years before retirement but what makes sense from a total budget and return on investment perspective will be different for each client.

Total remodel? Renovate one room? Construct an addition? Make small design tweaks? Let’s explore a few divergent approaches.

Update for Resale: The Art of Appeal

Often, homeowners in this phase are looking to modernize and simplify, with an eye on future sales. If you're considering downsizing, a strategic refurbishment can substantially increase the market appeal of your property. We can guide you through transformations that will maximize your home’s selling potential, keeping in mind regional trends, market standards, and buyer expectations.

We implement smart strategies that focus on high-impact areas, such as:

Curb Appeal-- Rejuvenating entryways, landscaping, and exteriors to ensure the first impression wows.
Kitchens and Bathrooms-- These are frequently the make-or-break spaces in a sale. Thoughtful updates to fixtures, surfaces and storage can work serious magic.
Cosmetic Touches-- Newly painted walls and trim, modern lighting and streamlined flooring create an illusion of spaciousness and freshness.

Update to Your Tastes: A Refuge for Self

For many empty nesters, this phase is emblematic of newfound freedom and the chance to prioritize their own comfort and preferences. Who needs a formal living room anymore? Perhaps now you’ll finally have the library, music room or workshop you’ve always dreamed of. Or maybe, you’ll invest in your hobbies and host more family and friends.

Additionally, if aging in place in this home is important, future-looking features would be incorporated into the design. Examples include a first-floor primary suite, easy-access kitchen and bathroom features, and plenty of open space to safely navigate the home.

In these instances, the focus shifts to understanding the nuances of your daily life, your long-term plan, your passions, your “out there” design vision and creating tailored spaces. The dividends are immediate and continuous—the satisfaction of a home that aligns perfectly with your life journey and personal taste.

The Redecorate Plan: You CAN Take It with You

For those content with the bones of their home and who want to leave the renovations to the next owner, redecorating is an exquisite middle ground:

Furnishings and Textiles-- This is where we find the art in re-arranging. New pieces can completely change the ambience of a space, offering a fresh canvas without the permanence of construction.
Art and Accents-- Personalization is key. These elements not only evoke your personality but can also be easily moved to a new space if necessary.
Conceptual Reinvention-- Think of your home as a gallery that can exhibit different themed collections over time—a versatility that resonates with the dynamics of this phase in life.

With redecorating, the return is both tangible and intangible. You’re investing in a comfortable, aesthetically pleasing space that can readily adapt to your lifestyle and physical needs as they evolve. And your furnishing can move when and if you do!

Our team helps you rationally explore the possibilities at this life juncture. Regardless of your home redesign philosophy, your budget or your commitment to your current home, we will come up with a design plan that yields emotional and financial returns. Through careful planning, clear communication and collaborative execution, we can help you transform your spaces so they are right for you now and for your future.

Taking the First Step Toward a New Interior

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 19:56:50 GMT

Are you ready for an upgrade, refresh or total makeover in your home but don’t know where or how to start the process? Do you have a vague notion about what kind of “look” or “vibe” you’re aiming for, but can’t quite articulate it? These are common stumbling blocks, but don’t let them become the reasons to keep postponing that much needed (and comfortably budgeted) change.

Here are some ways to start the design process:

Anchor your kitchen or bath project

Nearly every kitchen and bath has countertops, tile, cabinets, sinks, fixtures, flooring and hardware. A good tactic is to start on your favorite websites and browse. See what one or two elements capture your heart and fit your budget and use them as the springboard for your design. Often, the rest of your choices will fall into place more easily. We’ve centered entire kitchen designs around one gorgeous backsplash tile and preferred cabinet style. That’s not to suggest you need to be 100% certain about your choices, but those initial connections to materials or styles can give you momentum.

Start with the objects of your affection

Another “step one” is to think about your space and consider which, if any, of your current wall art, books, sculpture, vases, trinkets, antiques, furniture pieces, and/or rugs you absolutely, positively want to keep, use and/or display. This will help you define your options for the surrounding elements from the perspective of style and flow. For example, if your heirloom Chippendale writing desk and brass lamp will feature prominently in the den, you may decide to lean in hard to the traditional décor or want to balance the antiquity with a very simple, clean-lined love seat, a neutral rug, modern window treatments and less ornate accessories.

Turn the pages

Visit your favorite websites and peruse the magazines. From home décor-specific site like houzz.com and Cottages and Gardens to publications that feature celebrity or designer homes, you can see lots of interiors without ever leaving your home. Find your inspiration and consider how you can replicate it in your own spaces. Go the high/low route and find the mass market version of the deluxe piece at an affordable price. Splurge on the accessory fabric or material and you can live like the stars! Just make sure the scale is right for your spaces and your style flows from room to room.

Invest in an expert

Whether you need a few hours of organization, shopping and guidance or a project manager for your entire redesign, you will never regret engaging an experienced interior designer to get your project up and running. We help you focus on the strategies above, innovate and optimize your space for the way you live your life, and save you from headaches and potentially costly errors. Count on us to help you prioritize, focus and take the first step toward achieving your home design goals!

New Year, New Surroundings

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 17:18:41 GMT

Do your 2024 New Year's resolutions include focusing on your mental, physical or financial health, professional development or personal style? Why not align those goals with updates to your home design elements? A change in your surroundings — whether a minor tweak or a major renovation — can be motivating uplifting, and a smart investment.

Looking for ways to get started? Here are some ideas for every style and budget:

Reconfigure what you have

Move furniture around and between rooms to create a new flow, reimagined color combinations, unique seating nooks, and different levels of formality.
Prioritize your favorite accessories and make sure they are highlighted.
If the size is right, switch around your rugs, window treatments and bedcovers.

Declutter and organize to access and display what matters

Tackle closets and realistically assess what you'll wear again.
Empty your hardest-to-reach cabinets. If you haven't used that huge stock pot or decorative trinket in years, perhaps it's time to release it.
If you work from home, recreate your desk space from scratch. Create a fresh inbox. Set up new files for 2024. Refill your supplies. Buy new matching accessories to boost your productivity.
Why save “the good stuff” for special occasions? Start using your cloth napkins, china and barware more often.
Use inexpensive drawer and shelf dividers to keep folded items neat and loose items sorted.
Donate or freecycle usable items. Facebook has tons of " buy nothing ” groups with people ready to give your items new life. Many nonprofits will pick up furniture and housewares and offer tax receipts.
Recycle textiles, metals and plastics. Many schools and strip malls have bins to keep clothing and accessories out of landfills.

Pick a new inspirational color, pattern or finish to "test drive”

Re-accessorize your most-used sofa, primary or guest bedroom with new pillows and/or a throw. Use varied fabrics and textures to build an interesting and cohesive look.
Change the hardware or faucets in a kitchen or bathroom for a totally new vibe. Just measure and pick a few styles to try before committing. There are infinite styles, colors, finishes and prices to choose from.
Shop for a focal piece such as a lamp, vase, side table or piece of wall art that makes you happy. If a high-end gallery or furniture store is not in your budget, browse Etsy or your local thrift store for something unique.
If you’re thinking bold, paint or wallpaper a small powder room or office space. You can achieve a dramatic effect without a huge investment or commitment. Just make sure to tie into your hall color so you don’t have competing or clashing tones.

Don’t forget the exterior

Nothing says " welcome home ” like a beautiful front door. Perk up your entrance with updated light fixtures (or even just new bulbs), some fresh potted greenery, and a new mat.
Do a quick “not-spring“ outdoor cleaning. Remove dead fall plants from sight, sweep away cobwebs, and pack up your holiday décor.
If you live in a temperate climate, put a new coat of paint on your doors and shutters.
Consider landscape lighting to brighten those longer nights. Many DIY kits are available to you.

Start planning ahead for big changes

If you’re ready for a 2024 home addition or renovation, take some time to understand (and document) what you want, what you need, how much you’ll be able to invest and if there are any hurdles a prospective designer team should know about. Look through local magazines and websites for reference. Or drive around and take photos of exterior elements.
If needed, secure a home equity line of credit.
Ask friends and online groups for references for designers, builders and architects. Reach out and start interviewing a few to determine a good fit.

Still need some professional support to prioritize your home design goals and projects? Contact us and get started with complimentary 30-minute phone consultations.

Deck the Halls: Festive Home Décor Ideas

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 17:56:53 GMT

Whether you observe religious or family traditions, embrace the community spirit, love all things cozy and sparkly, or need to find a way to cope with the winter ahead, December design is distinctive. My approach to creating welcoming and inspirational holiday/year-end spaces is to design for all the senses.

A Vision to Behold

Use lights, colors, textures and patterns to build your unique look. Make it clean and modern with white, silver and gold twinkles, birch logs, and hints of bold color with a deep crimson throw, glass vases, fun candles, a cool bar set or awesome pillow. Or bring in all the traditional warmth and pageantry with plaids, houndstooth, bows, medium reds and greens, and larger multi-colored lights on your tree. Whatever your style, mix in family heirlooms like a manger scene, special ornaments or Hanukkah menorah for extra emotional impact.

Sugar and Spice…and Bubbles are Nice

Jars and pretty plates abundant with gingerbread and sugar cookies, warm cider and pots of hot chocolate — who doesn’t love holiday treats that bring you back to childhood? Add in a toast with a sparkling beverage for contrast, and you elevate the flavor profile and the ambience. Don’t worry about your culinary skills or budget. Luxurious chocolates, crunchy snacks, Prosecco and charcuterie elements are available everywhere from HomeGoods and Trader Joe’s to the finest bakeries and butchers!

Scent Sense

Of course, the aromas of the sweet and savory holiday foods add another layer to the spirit of the season. Cinnamon, clove and nutmeg warm. Sweet peppermint brings in freshness of the outdoors. Nuts roasting. Fruit pies baking. Irresistible smells. Beyond what’s edible, fragrant fir boughs or a Christmas tree, seasoned fireplace logs and natural candles offer additional layers of sensory appeal. Feature scents that uplift you with subtle hints or go full force!

Sleigh Bells Ring…

For a night at home or an all-out New Year’s Eve bash, music sets the tone. Search those Spotify playlists and you can find almost any style of holiday music from Bing singing “White Christmas” to any genre of vocal or instrumental interpretation. You can also find background sounds of jingle bells or other sounds to softly surround you and your guests for effect. Get sonically intricate with crackling fires, windows that are slightly ajar and crisp fabrics that can whoosh!

The Finishing Touch

Texture also enhances the vibrance of this unique season. Think velvet, taffeta, chenille, boucle, silk and all types of wool to bring warmth, comfort or fanciful elegance to you, your family or your guests. They (literally) give you a good feeling!

Embrace this strategy for seasonal home design now and for all the opportunities to explore your creative instincts, convey good tidings and energize for next year! Here’s to a beautiful and bountiful 2024!

Flexible Design Evolves with the Times, Your Tastes and Your Lifestyle

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 18:25:19 GMT

Designing and decorating your home or office space is rewarding and can be fun, but also requires an investment of both time and money. Whether you’re going it alone or working with a professional, you start with some vision of how you want the room to look and function and then consider your options for layout, paint, furniture, floors and accessories. Eventually, you get to admire the outcomes and start to live and work in your spaces.

Then…life happens! In the short term, a holiday is approaching, winter turns to spring, your business brings in new merchandise. In the long term, your family dynamic changes, your tastes change, you introduce a new brand strategy or you realize your clients need a new experience. How do you make the most of yesterday’s design investments while updating your surroundings for today’s realities and preferences? My answer: Flexible Design.

Here are my 5 key ingredients for a design foundation that evolves with you.

1. Start with a neutral foundation. This means choosing neutral paint colors, flooring and fixtures that will stand the test of time and won't go out of style. (You don’t want your spaces to be a shrine to a particular decade.) This will provide a solid base for you to build upon when you want to change things up. Additionally, a neutral color palette allows you to easily incorporate different textures and patterns without overwhelming the space. This doesn’t mean everything has to be white, beige, tan or gray or you should avoid bright colors you love. Simply that the base color of most of your spaces shouldn’t be too trendy or hard to match.

2. Choose versatile, classic pieces of furniture. When selecting furniture for your home, go for pieces that can work in different rooms and for different purposes. For example, a high-quality sofa (which comes in a range of prices) can be the anchor of a living room but can also work in a family or game room. Again, stick with designs that transcend trends for most of your selections.

3. Incorporate interchangeable accessories. One of the easiest ways to switch up the look of a room is to change out accessories such as pillows, slipcovers, lamps, table settings, plants and smaller area rugs. By incorporating interchangeable accessories into your design, you can easily transition your space from season to season or holiday to holiday without spending a lot of money. This is also a great way to experiment with different styles and colors without committing to a total redesign.

4. Consider the long-term functionality of a room. As your needs evolve, it's fantastic to have spaces that can adapt to these changes. When designing a room, think ahead to future uses and embrace a core design that will work for now and later. For example, a playroom can easily transform into a teen gathering room or hybrid workspace by swapping out child-themed art, cutesy toy chests and bins for more mature A/V, décor, desk and storage solutions. For furnishings focus on choosing “workhorse” items that will span the phases of your room’s life: seating, lighting, floor coverings, window treatments. At work, consider layouts that are flexible so you can accommodate a growing onsite staff or different display needs.

5. Don't be afraid to mix and match. Stay away from sets and overly matched items and eras. By combining different elements, you can create a space that is unique and reflective of your personal style. Play around with different combinations of colors, textures, materials and styles in a cohesive look that works for you. By taking a more piecemeal approach and not being too reliant on one particular style, you can switch out just an item or two, create a whole new vibe, highlight the things you love and not throw off the balance of your total design.

With these guidelines, you and your interior designer can create spaces that resonate and work for you and your family, your customers and employees.

Pace of Renovation – Stages and Potential Pitfalls

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 16:56:05 GMT

Renovating a home can bring both excitement and stress, especially with the uncertainty of what lies ahead. It is essential to thoroughly understand the renovation process's typical stages and timelines to manage your expectations and plan your life and work at home accordingly. Let’s review five stages of home renovation.

1. Planning

Thoughtful, experience-based planning sets the foundation for a successful project. Homeowners often underestimate costs and rush through planning, leading to hiring the wrong contractors for the job. To avoid these pitfalls, it is crucial to do the research, establish a realistic budget and work with credible contractors. Of course, we advocate working with a knowledgeable designer from the outset to ultimately save you time, money and stress! Being proactive and planning for contingencies can mitigate the probability of setbacks and delaying the project. The planning stage may take between four weeks to six months, depending on the project's complexity.

2. Design

The design stage follows the planning stage and typically lasts two to six months, depending on the project's size and scope. At this stage, interior designers or architects (or some combination) lead a team to create drawings and technical specifications for your renovation project. It is essential to be involved in the design process to ensure that it reflects your preferences and meets your needs. This stage can involve several iterations until the final design is approved and may present challenges such as delayed material delivery or sourcing materials that are not readily available. To avoid any unnecessary delays, it is crucial to research materials and finalize design plans before starting the project.

3. Permitting

After your designs have been solidified, it is time to obtain your permits. While many people consider this to be a painful part of the process, it is an advisable one and can take several weeks, depending on the project's location and extent. For construction and renovation, you must obtain permits before starting in most towns and municipalities. This is especially critical for a smooth future resale and most homeowners like the security of knowing that plumbing, electrical and engineering has been done correctly and is up to code.

4. Demolition

Hardhats, sledgehammers and releasing frustration! It is demolition time, which clears the way for new construction. As much fun as smashing through a wall can be, this phase can also reveal any unexpected structural damage or safety concerns. Hiring a reputable contractor can help spot potential issues before they become a significant problem. Considering possible contingencies and adding a buffer to your timeline and budget can avoid unnecessary delays.

5. Construction

This is where ideas come to life and all the prep comes to fruition. Of course, the construction process has many elements and can last months or even years, depending on the scale of the project. (Think framing, plumbing, electrical, drywall, carpentry, flooring, tiling, appliance installation, painting, plus all the finish work.) When unforeseen complications arise (e.g., weather delays, supply chain interruptions, subcontractor backups) it is helpful to have contingency plans in place, maintain open communication with the contractor and design team, and to stay informed. At the end of the process, with any obstacles overcome, it is doubly rewarding to move your dishware into those beautiful new cabinets, luxuriate in a spa-like bathroom or simply admire how crisp new bed linens offset your paint color.

IN LIVING(ROOM) COLOR

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 15:06:14 GMT

Finding Your Perfect Shade for Spaces That Will Make You Happy

The wall, trim and ceiling colors you select for your redesigned room, renovated spaces or newly built home are fundamental to your overall design. And paint can be one of the most cost-effective ways to change your look. To choose right, it is important to have a clear design vision for a cohesive feel. Here are a few tips for build your paint color strategy that satisfies your aesthetic, functional and financial goals:

Watch your tone!

Consider what mood or atmosphere you want to create in the spaces. For example, if you’re going for calm, sleek and Zen-like, choose cool shades like white, blue, gray, or green. If you’re aiming for comfy-cozy or earthy consider warmer colors and beiger hues. Rooms (or even nooks) can certainly be different colors, but it’s always best for your home’s overall flow to keep the tone in the same temperature.

See the light!

It's important to consider the amount of natural and artificial lighting in your space before selecting paint as colors can look different under different lighting conditions. For example, a color that looks stunning in natural light may appear dull under artificial light. Look at your paint swatches at different times of day and under various lighting conditions before covering your walls.

FROM START TO “FINISH”

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 13:10:39 GMT

Selecting the Total Look Without Any Regrets

Embarking on a home improvement or renovation project is an exciting and rewarding endeavor. You start picturing yourself enjoying your new or redesigned spaces from the moment you say yes to the plans.

But the many decisions along the way can be intimidating given the myriad choices of looks and finishes that ultimately impact the overall aesthetics and functionality of your space. While it may be tempting to take on this task yourself — after all, the design world is literally at your fingertips online — enlisting the guidance of a professional designer ensures the cohesiveness of your choices. Perhaps even more importantly, using a designer to narrow down your options and make suggestions will usually save you time and reduce the likelihood of making costly mistakes.

Here are some examples of the utility of expert guidance on your finishes:

Hardwood Flooring : Timeless Elegance and Versatility

Hardwood flooring injects warmth and beauty into your home or office, and an enormous range of wood types, finishes, and installation parts are available. Additionally, based on the use and traffic of the room, you may want to consider engineered or laminate wood options. Your designer will:

Guide you toward the most suitable options based on your lifestyle, budget, and design preferences. A designer has real-world experience with the installed look, as well as durability and maintenance.
Coordinate with other design elements so your hardwood flooring complements your wall colors, furniture, and lighting selections.
Give you access to professional resources including suppliers who may have unique and high-quality options that are not readily available to the general public.

Pulls and Knobs : Adding Hardware with Style and Functionality

Your hardware selection, whether on kitchen or bathroom cabinets, bedroom dressers, or on all your doorknobs, can either subtly blend to reinforce your aesthetic or make a major statement with intention. Working with a professional interior designer ensures you:

Execute your vision and narrow down the thousands of hardware options to a few appropriate choices and give you context for each.
Describe the impact of different finishes and materials on your final look and fit with any ergonomic needs and long-term outlook.
Find a luxury look at an affordable price if you’re on a tight budget.

Countertop Choices : Balance Beauty and Practicality

Countertops play a central role in both kitchen and bathroom design. As they may comprise a good chunk of your total budget and are not easy to change once installed, it’s vitally important to select countertops you will love! You’ll be glad you have your designer to:

Act as a guide through the rows of different material slabs so you can see, touch and feel them to envision how they’d look with your other design elements.
Understand how different materials would perform in your spaces.
Present the pluses and minuses of real versus engineered stones, as well as honed versus polished versus leather finishes.
Review the costs and tradeoffs of each of your top options.
Ensure your measurements and size estimates are correct.

A trusted partner in the redesign, renovation or new build will aim to make your journey so much smoother. The best professional designers will do everything they can to make sure that you love the outcome of your project, feel confident in the foundational elements and finishes you’ve chosen and look back on the process with satisfaction!

IT TAKES TWO TO TANGO

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 12:46:54 GMT

Partnering with Your Interior Designer to Find Your Style

When you invest in a renovation, addition or redesign, your new spaces should reflect your particular tastes and day-to-day needs. The style of the finished product should make you feel relaxed, inspired and truly at home. But how do you get there? What defines your style?

Creating this “optimally you” environment requires having the right partner in the process. Often, it’s hard to articulate your personal style and even more of a challenge to execute. Enter the skilled interior designer! With a proven assessment process, expertise, intuition and creativity, they will work with you to craft the perfect home (or commercial) spaces for your unique lifestyle.

The quality design professional best suited to you can build a personal rapport quickly and get a sense of direction by asking insightful questions and demonstrating that they listen well. What are some of the key points of understanding?

How you live:

How do you and your family use your various spaces?
Where does everyone work and what hours?
What is the balance between “from scratch” and “on-the-go” meals?
What kinds of pets live in the home, if any?
How much do you entertain? How often do you host holidays or have overnight guests?
What is your hosting style?
Are you messy or organized? What is your clean-up style?
How long do you plan on staying in your home?

Design tastes:

What kind of furnishings and objects do you have, love and want to highlight, reuse or repurpose? Why are these your favorite things?
Do you prefer clean lines or more movement?
Do you favor a certain style or era or a more eclectic mix?
Do you want a more formal look or want your spaces more casual and comfortable?
What are your favorite colors? Do you want a neutral palette?
Do you have any aspirational photos?

This review of your tastes and needs helps the designer curate your style and express your vision. Mix that together with their education, their knowledge of varied vendor capabilities, and their experience with other projects and you’ll get the best plan to meet your goals.

Are you ready to find the perfect interior designer for your project? Give us a call for our helpful complimentary 30-minute phone assessment.

WEARER OF MANY HATS

Wed, 31 May 2023 14:33:28 GMT

Interior Designer as Project Manager Plus

The core function of your interior designer is to (obviously) design your spaces, from accessorizing one room to building the plan for a whole home or office space. I, however, approach my job with a much broader, more strategic perspective. My ideal is to be an invaluable resource to my clients as an end-to-end project manager and advocate for their needs.

This outlook may seem redundant or overreaching if you have engaged an architect, a general contractor or if you feel confident in your ability to juggle the different workstreams and vendors connected to your design project. But here’s why it pays to have a designer who partners with you broadly, not just on a transactional basis:

Your Vision is My Vision
By the time your project has transformed from the idea phase to agreed-upon drawings and plan, I have truly internalized your needs, your style and your preferences. As your proxy in any communications or decision making, I will ensure that the project stays true to intent.

Relationships Matter
Over the years, I’ve worked with, and been a loyal client of, many of your key vendors and have built up goodwill. This history means I can make well-considered referrals to you based on expertise, workstyle and personality fit, and that we will be productive working together. Of equal importance, these connections matter when schedules are tight, you have a disagreement, or you need answers or favors.

Objectivity Helps
Sometimes, project manager transforms into objective negotiator and devil’s advocate. When a project faces a challenge or reaches a critical decision-making point, I can help take emotion out of the process by leveraging my relationships and my diverse experience in design and the corporate world. This helps my clients arrive at positive outcomes. (Given the number of times I’ve helped homeowners or business partners at odds reach agreement, I joke that I should also be awarded a PhD in couple therapy!)

The Need for Creativity Doesn’t End with the Blueprint
Anyone who’s completed an interior design project of any scale knows to expect the unexpected. Rip down walls and discover a happy family of squirrels living has made mincemeat of your wiring. Order your fabric and learn the factory in Spain is on strike for the foreseeable future. Hire a painter and the crew comes down with COVID. It is a comfort to have a designer who can present and secure good alternatives to keep you calm and on track.

I am grateful to my clients — from the “I’m in your hands” folks to the do-it-yourselfers — for entrusting me with their project’s management. With each one I learn more about the technicalities of construction, the complexities of the supply chain, the intricacies of interpersonal relationships and the importance of clear communication.

COUNTDOWN TO DEMOLITION DAY

Mon, 01 May 2023 16:02:20 GMT

Prepping Your Home for Redesign Kickoff

Whether you’re redecorating a single room or breaking ground on an addition, there’s a nervous excitement as you embark on a new home design project. Your designer has finalized the plans and you’ve selected the team of professionals that is going to get the job done. Now you start thinking about what else needs to happen to make the process efficient, minimize disruptions in your life and ensure you can look back on the project contentedly? Here’s how we recommend you prepare yourself and your home to help ensure a smooth project:

TACKLE PERMITS

The permitting process can be intimidating, time consuming and expensive if you need one for your type of project. Many homeowners choose to have a third party or their contractor take care of it. These days, however, lots of cities and towns have moved the applications and approvals online, making it much more streamlined. With a little bit of education on terminology, plenty of lead time and a healthy dose of organization, you CAN handle it yourself.

TRIM THE EXTRAS

If you have items that you don’t use, don’t value, and/or don’t foresee keeping in your redesigned spaces, now is the time to pare down. Give intact items to your local freecycle organization or donate to a nonprofit. Are you realizing that your wedding dinnerware is just too fussy for your current life? Try to sell it with your local consignment shop or on sites like Ebay, Facebook Marketplace, or The RealReal to earn some extra cash. Haven’t worn those five pairs of low-rise jeans in a few years? Deposit them in one of those clothing recycling bins you see in parking lots. Once your excess is cleared out, you’ll have a better focus on what you love and need moving forward.

SET A CLEAN SLATE

Prior to demolition, everything must be removed from the impacted rooms and it pays to be methodical about how you pack it all up. Protect, box and label breakables; use those mega-size sealable bags and store everything as out of the way as possible. It’s surprising how much dust can make its way under doors, up stairways, and into every little nook, so cover your favorite furniture and keep hand vacuums, dusters and mops at the ready to minimize build-up.

RELOCATE THE ESSENTIALS

Think about your core activities in the spaces you’re updating and figure out how you’ll accomplish them in other rooms or out of the home. If decorating a primary suite, move into a guest room with your favorite pillows and utilize moving boxes for hanging items to keep your most worn clothing accessible. If a kitchen renovation is in the plan, your contractor can set up an alternative kitchen with a minifridge, microwave and portable burner at a minimum so you don’t have to eat takeout for the duration of the project.

With this preparation, you will be ready for demolition day, and the fun of watching your design vision and functional needs come to fruition.

YOU SHOULD BE LOVING IT!

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 14:16:11 GMT

Now is the Time to Stay Put and Invest in Your Current Space

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TIMING IS EVERYTHING

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 19:41:09 GMT

Understanding the Ebb and Flow of Design Project Timelines

Congratulations! After many conversations and work sessions, drafts and adjustments, you and your design professional have collaborated to draw up the new spaces you’ve envisioned. Your chosen team of contractors and vendors are ready bring your plans to life. You’re eager to get started!

However, EVEN when everyone is proactive, communicative and decisive, home and business owners need to anticipate some project hurdles along the way. And whether you’re redecorating a small room or renovating your whole home, it is important to have realistic expectations about project timing. If you are flexible and educated, you will be able to fully embrace—and be more likely to enjoy—the whole process.

We’re sharing some common reasons for shifts to your timeline so you can align your expectations with the everyday realities of home design and building.

WHAT LIES BENEATH

When your interior designer, architect, engineer or general contractor prepares your project blueprint (and estimated costs), they can’t always anticipate additional work that needs to be done on your infrastructure before “the fun stuff” can happen. For example, while refreshing an outdated primary bathroom, you might uncover rot in the subfloor where there’s been water, deteriorated insulation behind old tile, corroded pipes or frayed wires. Your timeline may be pushed back a few days or weeks, but these are items that need proper remediation for quality, safety and to ensure your building is up to code.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU’RE INSPECTING

Most towns and municipalities require home and business owners to pull a permit for any renovation that touches electrical, plumbing or impacts a room’s square footage. Depending upon the complexity of your job, the time of year and whether you are filing for permits yourself or outsourcing the task, it can take a while to receive your initial permit. If your project impacts a septic system or your property abuts wetlands, permitting may require a visit from the local Environmental Protection Department. Scheduling the necessary midway onsite inspections may also set you back. On the plus side, most of the permitting process is now digital so you can upload plans, track signoffs and request appointments with the click of a button.

SO DEMANDING!

Supply-side issues (ranging from production to shipping to labor shortages) plus a high demand for home improvement services may result in waits and delays. Everything from appliances to fabrics and furnishings is taking a bit longer to come in these days. Your favorite contractor, painter or upholsterer may not be able to provide you with an immediate start date. The more organized you are about making decisions, signing contracts and ordering items well in advance of when you think you need them, the more likely you will stay on track.

So how do you reach design heaven while navigating through these project pitfalls?

Have an experienced project manager on your side who has good relationships with your contractors and vendors: This is an invaluable resource.
Construct a realistic project plan that factors in the time needed to address the unknown. (Hint: Don’t plan a Mother’s Day brunch for 20 if your kitchen remodel is scheduled to start April 1!)
Proactive communication keeps you from feeling blindsided. Consistently ensure your expectations about milestones are reasonable.
Be flexible. If you must have that back-ordered fixture or tile, understand the implications of waiting for it to arrive. What other to-do’s are dependent upon installing it? If you are really pressed for time, select second-choice options that allow you to pivot.

Finally, keep in mind that the extra weeks or even months will be a distant memory when you are reveling in your new beautiful spaces!

Renovation Communication

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 13:56:23 GMT

Whether overhauling your entire home or sprucing up a few rooms, working with an interior designer is a wise investment. An experienced professional can help you make smart decisions, so your new spaces align with your vision, budget and long-term needs. If you've never worked with a designer before, here are my five top tips to help build the most productive relationship.

#1 Open Communication is Key
It is essential to communicate your goals, financial considerations and lifestyle upfront. This will help your designer understand what you're looking for and develop a customized plan. Don't be afraid to be specific — the more information they have, the better they'll be able to serve you. Beyond the elements of the project itself, let your designer know things about yourself and household.

#2 Flexibility Helps
It is helpful to have some ideas about what you want before meeting with a designer. It is also important to be open to suggestions based on the designer's years of experience, industry knowledge, understanding of space and return on investment. Additionally, there is always some element of the unknown when your project includes construction and supply chain; sometimes, you must be willing to pivot to comply with regulations and in the interest of timelines.

#3 Be Decisive
When working with a designer on a renovation, it's important to carefully consider your options but also realize that there are diminishing returns if you take too long to reach that single "perfect" decision. Take the advice of your designer, make your selections according to their timeline and feel confident that your space will look great. The last thing you want is to end up with a half-finished project because you just couldn't make up your mind about something.

#4 Maintain Realistic Expectations
Designers will help you achieve a version of the look and function you want and need within the boundaries of your budget, timeline and existing space. Be cognizant of what is financially and technically possible in the assessment and execution of your design plans. (Happily, however, we do often hear, "You're a magician!" even when we can't accomplish every single thing on a wish list.)

#5 Understand Your Designer's Project Management Role
Whether you're doing a full home renovation or simply painting and having blinds installed, your designer will likely oversee a team of contractors to complete your project. This can be an invaluable resource in terms of expertise as well as time (and stress) management. Make sure you and your interior designer review each of the roles and responsibilities and any associated fees upfront so you'll have a super-productive working relationship.

WISHING YOU BEAUTIFUL INTERIORS IN 2023!

Resolution Dream Home

proadAccountId-422147 — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 16:13:18 GMT

Tired of the same old resolutions that evaporate quicker than you can say, “Auld lang syne?” Well, if home improvement is on your list, sticking to a resolution may be easer that you think. From optimizing your chic urban studio apartment to updating an expansive estate — and everything in between — by working on your home in organized stages, you can gradually make the changes and see the differences that will help you achieve and maintain your beautiful home vision.

Whether organizing, renovating or rethinking your spaces, here are some tips to make January changes that will last for seasons:

1. Tidy Up the Trimmings. One of the simplest things you can do to start the year off right is to put away any holiday decorations when the celebrations are over. Tasks that make sense for early January include taking down the tree, packing up the lights and ornaments and storing everything away until next year. If you are someone just lives for the holiday ho-ho-ho avoid the post-holiday blues by replacing the twinkle with some cozy winter touches such as soft new pillows, fun fireplace tools or a bright lap blanket.

2. Clear Out the Clutter. When the days are short and the weather is frigid, prep your home for a new look eliminating unused, dust-gathering items that have accumulated over the past year…or ten! Anything you haven’t needed, wanted, enjoyed looking at, or touched in months or years should be tossed, donated, freecycled or recycled. Clean off your bulletin board that’s crowded with invitations to parties you attended last summer and expired coupons. Get rid of old clothes, books and toys that don’t fit your life anymore. Say goodbye to out-of-date food items and cosmetics. Create space to inspire!

3. Fix the Furniture. If you have any pieces of furniture or art that need repair or updating, show them a little love. This could mean anything from fixing a wobbly table to reupholstering a chair to reframing a print. Small changes like these help your home reflect who you are today and make it more functional and comfortable.

4. Ditch the Less Desirable. If there are any home decor pieces or collections you no longer want, free up valuable space and get rid of them. Based on condition and desirability, this could mean selling, donating or simply throwing them away. A little research on sites like Facebook Marketplace, TheRealReal and with local resellers can help you determine if your items have value and if there is a demand for them. Feeling sentimental/guilty about the heirloom figurines, crystal, coins or furniture that just don’t jibe with your look anymore? Keep one or two of your favorite pieces for sentiment that can be balanced with items and styles you love.

5. Roam the Rooms. Once you have finished Steps 1-4, take a good look at your home. Walk through each room with fresh eyes and note what you like and don't like. Where do you feel most comfortable? What rooms do you avoid and why? What changes would you like to see in each room?

Congratulations, you’ve done the work! Now is the time to identify, prioritize and initiate any design changes you’d like to make over the rest of the year. Maybe you’ll even have a little extra budget from Step 4!

Getting Your Home Holiday-Ready: Let Your Style Shine Through

proadAccountId-422147 — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 14:01:59 GMT

The holidays are a wonderful time of year to get your home in tip-top shape and ready to welcome guests. But with so many different style trends out there, it can be hard to decide how you want to give thanks or deck the halls. Have no fear — we're here to help you put your personal stamp on the holidays and let your style shine through, whether you're going for extravagant or minimalist, traditional or modern. Read on for some inspiration!

If you're looking to go all out this holiday season:
• Try adding some luxe touches like velvet throw pillows, faux fur blankets, and gold accents.
• Candles of all shapes and sizes are always must-haves for creating the ambiance of your spaces, so stock up!
• Don't forget the greenery — fresh garland draped over your fireplace mantle or balcony railing will give your home that festive touch.
• Consider your light, inside and out. From dramatic spots to highlight your tree to twinkly string lights matching the bubbles in your prosecco, holiday lighting creates a dramatic and fun environment.

If you're a Thanksgiving and Christmas traditionalist:
• Decorate your mantle and table with folk-arty Pilgrim stuff.
• Use autumn hues that match the fallen leaves and your big turkey meal. Think pumpkin, ochre and cranberry.
• Go for classic red and green with some plaid patterns thrown in for good measure.
• Hang tartan blankets as wall tapestries or table runners.
• Place poinsettias around your home… yes, even the ones with glitter!
• Stringing up fairy lights wherever possible.
• And, of course, load up your big ol' Christmas tree with treasured ornaments, bows, tinsel and multicolored lights.

If understated, modern and chic is your style:
• Stick to a monochromatic and metallics in color scheme, especially for your lights and candles and lights in white, silver, and/or ivory. Think wintry neutrals…and don’t rule out black!
• Build table settings using solids and modern prints and use high-quality fabrics such as cotton, linen or velvet.
• Add subtle holiday touches by hanging boxwood wreaths on your doors or windows and decorating your tree (real or artificial) sparingly and uniformly.
• Geometric shapes, glass and sleek lines align with a modern aesthetic. Hanging star lanterns, mirrored trays, square barware and vases all add panache while maintaining a clean look.

Most important — your vision can be achieved on any budget. Think about the high-low concept we’ve shared in the past. There are gorgeous paper goods available, if laundering cloth napkins seems like a drag or you don’t have China. That vase from Home Goods can look just as glam as a Tiffany crystal one. Use the special things you have and supplement them with what’s accessible.

If you have an inspiration for your holiday look but still not quite sure how to pull it off? Think about us! We can help you plan, shop, and decorate for your special meal, party, or the whole season. There's no place like (your gorgeous) home for the holidays!

Start Next Spring’s Kitchen Makeover, Now!

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 14:35:41 GMT

Start Next Spring’s Kitchen Makeover, Now!

Whether cooking up gourmet fare, pouring a bowl of cereal or enjoying takeout, the kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where we congregate with family and celebrate with friends. The kitchen is also the most important focal point of any home sale. That's why it's important to ensure that your kitchen meets your needs in both function and design. If you're thinking of a kitchen redo — from refacing cabinets to a complete renovation — now is the time to get started. Here’s why:

The right design takes some time. You may think you can just go to the store, pick out some new cabinets, tile and appliances, and “Voila!” This approach can lead to buyer’s remorse and design flaws that are expensive to address. A better approach is to work with a professional with the experience and vision to create an effective plan for your space. This may take longer, challenging you to reflect and assess, but your decision-making will be thoughtful and rational.

Kitchens are an investment . With the prices of everything from drywall to tile on the rise, you don’t want to make an error that leads to overspending, restocking fees or waste. If you plan well in advance of your kitchen makeover, you will be less likely to make costly mistakes due to hasty decision-making.

Supply chain issues may force you to pivot. You don’t want to embark on a complete remodel, only to find that your appliances are delayed by weeks or even months. Nor do you want to learn you can only get one pendant light (for over your island) when you need three! If you leave yourself plenty of lead time, you are able to select a different brand or model without delaying the whole project.

High seasonal demand for services. If you wait until next spring to start

soliciting bids for your kitchen makeover, thinking it'll be ready for summer, you'll be competing with everyone else who wants their indoor and outdoor projects completed too. You might pay more for labor and have to wait for appointments, bids, crews, subcontractors and inspectors. To avoid the logjam, start talking to your designers and contractors now.

Take advantage of seasonal sales. If you have a firm kitchen design well in advance of your desired completion date, you have the lead time to shop around for the best prices on appliance deliveries, fixtures, hardware and furnishings. Look for 0% credit as well to help spread out your cash outlay over many months.

If you need help getting started, contact me. I offer many affordable ways to work together. I'd be happy to help you plan your kitchen makeover from start to finish. Meanwhile, take a look at my website for some kitchen inspiration!

Make Your Budget and your Home Happiness Go Farther: Hire an Interior Designer

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 13:57:55 GMT

Make Your Budget and Your Home Happiness Go Farther: Hire an Interior Designer

Are you considering redecorating your home but think you need to “DIY” to maximize your budget? You may be surprised to learn that working with a professional interior designer can save you money in the long run. Contrary to popular belief, designers do not have to be expensive. In fact, their expertise can ensure that each design dollar is spent wisely. That’s an investment that pays dividends! Interior designers are invaluable in:

Planning : Designers can help you plan and budget for your project upfront to avoid overspending. They will also work with you to understand your goals and needs, finding ways to stretch your budget,helping you make decisions, and executing the project in a timely manner. This can save you money on construction labor costs, as well as the cost of materials.

Offering creative alternatives: A good designer will come up with innovative and cost-effective solutions for your design dilemmas that you wouldn’t have thought of on your own. Their experience provides perspective; they’ve worked through the hurdles. A client-centered designer will offer quality options at a variety of price points and will be able to articulate the trade-offs.

Emphasizing quality over quantity: An interior designer will help you determine which elements of your home décor should stand the test of time and won't need to be replaced in a few years. This will vary based on your style (classic vs. trendy) and your lifestyle (live alone, work from home, messy toddlers, empty nester, big dogs). They will also advise you on how to complement your higher-investment pieces with less expensive accessories or pick non-luxe furniture that replicates a high-end look.

Providing industry connections : Interior designers have relationships with building, trade and wholesale professionals you may not have access to. This means they can often take you shopping in non-retail locations and pass on discounts on furniture and other home decor items.

Doing it right the first time : The most important advantage of working with a designer is that they can help you design strategically, so you avoid making costly mistakes. They will bring up challenges an average homeowner wouldn’t consider, ask the right questions to help you make informed decisions, and can be your advocate throughout the redesign process.

Want to start your design project but worried about the cost? Contact me for a 30-minute complimentary consultation.

Expand Your Space

proadAccountId-422147 — Wed, 06 Jul 2022 13:04:53 GMT

Add Space and Style Without Breaking the Bank

Home additions can be inherently costly and with the price of EVERYTHING at an all-time high, some homeowners are delaying much-needed and wanted projects. But there are a few more budget-friendly alternatives to explore if you require additional space and functionality:

Boost your basement: Unfinished basements are usually the first spaces in the home that people look to finish if they want to expand their day-to-day living room. But before you start painting those walls and shopping for accessories, you will first want to ensure that your basement is adequately insulated and waterproofed. While it may take some time upfront, it will help protect your belongings and provide a comfortable temperature year-round. How you plan to use the space, as well as its size, will determine what type of finishes and furnishings you'll need. Will it be an extra bedroom, an office, a family room or a game room? Also, in a basement, don’t forget to consider the amount of natural light when thinking about design and function. While a below-ground room can be great for playroom gaming and family movie night, it might get oppressive for a 9-to-5 home office without some stylish and bright lamps and recessed lighting.

Grow into your garage: Not just for cars, your garage is often under-utilized extra space. With those large garage doors, it is a versatile four-season space — making it the perfect spot for a home gym or workshop. Whether you have a one- or two-car garage, chances are there is room to spare. With infinite new awesome-looking options, you can quickly turn your empty garage into livable space by adding some drywall, insulation, and flooring. First step? Organize! Give away riding toys your kids have outgrown, sell tools you never use, and toss random stuff that’s just collecting dust. Then, hang hooks to mount bikes and install shelving to organize your home, garden and automotive tools. Once the garage is cleared out you can start to see the possibilities.

Attack your attic: This is another existing and unused space that most homes have. When deciding whether to use your attic, you will need to think about insulation (again), overhead space, ventilation (attics can get hot!) and the overall layout of your house. Is the area better for storage, an office or a walk-in closet? Don't forget that from the top of your home, you may have terrific views, so putting in new windows can give a finished attic a luxurious feel.

Lofty ideas: Do you have high ceilings in your home? Lofts are becoming increasingly popular as they provide an extra living space without taking away footage from other rooms. Common uses for lofts include bedrooms, offices, and playrooms. To create a loft, you will need to build a platform and install a staircase. Depending on the height of your ceilings, you may also need to add some additional support beams. When considering the design of your furnishings and layout, think about whether you want a cozy kids’ nook or a modern grown-up aerie.

Divide and conquer: if you have a large enough room, consider adding a wall, or even a screen or curtain, to create two distinct living spaces without major construction. Adding a divider is especially useful if you need a nursery or an office that doesn’t require a lot of open floor space. The type of “wall” you select will vary by budget, amount of privacy needed, as well as the placement of windows and closets in the existing room.

Adding extra room to your house to keep up with your shifting lifestyle, doesn't have to be prohibitively expensive or complicated. With creativity, elbow grease and some expert guidance, you can easily add the extra room (or rooms) you need. Call me for a complimentary 30-minute consultation to set you on the right path.

Finding (re)Purpose

proadAccountId-422147 — Thu, 09 Jun 2022 20:16:17 GMT

Finding (re)Purpose

Your home is a reflection of your way of life. As your family and routines change, you may find that you need to redesign some of the spaces you inhabit. Don't be afraid to change things up - there's no need to stick with the status quo if it's not working for you anymore!

This high school and college graduation season lead many of my clients to consider their next chapter as empty nesters. Additionally, during the pandemic, many already-independent young adults and college students moved back home out of necessity or to escape the isolation and monotony of urban apartment life. This meant that families were staking out study- and workspaces throughout the home. Dining room tables became strewn with laptops, and everyone had to tiptoe around to avoid walking into someone's important Zoom, and bedrooms doubled as library carrels. Now, to the bittersweet relief of many parents, most of the young folks who came back to the nest have flown the coop again!

In this blog post, I'll share a few tips on how to redesign your reclaimed home spaces so that they are practical, optimized for your current lifestyle, and, as always, attractive and comfortable. Best of all, your repurposing objectives can be achieved on almost any budget.

Creating "real" home office space

Mostly vacated children's bedrooms, teen-oriented basements, and playrooms are ideal for creating dedicated work-focused spaces. The basics:

Remove and donate any old toys, themed bedding, and outdated décor. Rip up old carpeting.
Paint the room a color that calms you, inspires you or makes you happy. (I can help you find one with staying power.)
Select a desk that is the right proportion for the room, has the functionality for your work needs (e.g., file drawers, L-shaped, keyboard drawer), and suits your style. Then find a coordinating, comfortable chair.
Accent with a few meaningful, personal mementos, favorite books, and simple wall art.
Add a floor and/or desk lamp or both depending upon the amount of natural light the room receives.
If taking over a bedroom, add functionality with a sleep sofa or murphy bed and a small side table so family and guests can visit comfortably.

Making room to exercise

With strong WIFI and a television, tablet or computer screen, any room in your home (or portion of a room) can become a gym! Make your workouts stylish and effective:

Lay down flooring based on the type of equipment you're using, the room you are converting, and the exercise programs you enjoy. Do Pilates anywhere with only a mat, but you might want to explore shock-absorbing foam tiles for HIIT workouts or to support a treadmill or stationary bike.
Consider a wall-mounted television and wireless speakers for an at-the-gym immersive experience.
Watch your posture with some strategically placed mirrors.
Hand weights come in all colors. For a sleeker look, choose all black or metal, but throw in some bright ones to brighten the mood! And stay organized with a small weight rack or bins on wheels to stow out of sight in a closet.
Accessorize with rolled hand towels.

Get crafty!

With more time to pursue your interests, make space that's a haven just for you.

Love to read? Remove an old homework desk or video game area and create a cozy book nook. Select a beautiful and comfortable chair, pick a soft throw, and coordinate a lamp for just the right glow on the hardcover or Kindle.
Convert a basement, shed, or playroom into your scrapbooking, quilting, painting, model railroad, or ceramics studio. The key is to keep it organized with a clean-looking table or workspace and labeled bins (to store tools and materials) that fit into a closet or onto shelves.
Protect your floors from stains and wear with washable area rugs or rubber mats.
Show off your creativity and style by (selectively) displaying your best work throughout your home.

Whether you want to move around what you have, make small additions or dramatically overhaul the rooms in your home to mark a new phase of life, I can help you realize your vision. Let's brainstorm about the possibilities of repurposing!

The Great Outdoors!

proadAccountId-422147 — Mon, 02 May 2022 18:59:26 GMT

Designing Your Patio or Deck for Optimal Enjoyment

Mother's and Father's Day, graduation and BBQ season are fast approaching. Around our area that means, "Let's celebrate outside!"

As soon as the weather starts to warm up, the desire to entertain, play or quietly relax outdoors becomes irresistible.

Here are some tips for designing your outdoor space, no matter what the configuration or budget, so you can enjoy it from spring's first warm sunny days. First, if your home has a patio, deck or balcony you love, it's time to start thinking about how to make the most of it:

Plan for shade –– essential on hot days. Add an umbrella to your patio table or install a retractable awning.
Create privacy, cleaner air and noise buffers with shrubs, planters filled with tall plants or hanging baskets overflowing with greenery.
Make your space reflect your personal style and more inviting by adding cozy cushions and throws (for cool nights) in colors and patterns you love. Easy to store away when not in use.
Include fixed, hung and landscape lighting in your plan. Lighting lets you: highlight your landscape; enjoy outdoor games; safely navigate your yard at night; and create whatever mood you seek.
Accessorize! Find items that reflect your taste such as outdoor art, sculpture, birdbaths or candle holders to add more personality to your space.
If you have a pool, make it your centerpiece! Add comfortable seating and umbrellas so you can enjoy the water even when you're not swimming.
Don't forget about storage! Invest in a good-sized storage bin to keep pool toys, floats and other summer gear organized.
Be realistic and balance function with form. For example, you should probably skip the fire table (as beautiful as it is) for now if you have two dogs and three toddlers at home.

But what if your outdoor space is past its prime and just not working for you anymore? Let's talk about what to consider when you're redesigning:

Size and shape –– Is it too large or small for your needs? Do you want to keep it the same size or make changes?
Layout –– You need to imagine how to access your space, how traffic will flow and be clear on any constraints. For example, if you're constantly walking through your dining area to get to the grill, that's not ideal. Is there a septic tank or local EPA rules to consider?
Materials –– What will work with your home and creative vision? Poured concrete, brick pavers, stone or tile? Do you want only natural wood for a deck or weather-proof, lower-maintenance manufactured building materials?
Landscaping –– Do you want a natural look or prefer highly manicured?

Whether you have a large backyard, a small balcony or you're ready to build a new oasis, with a little strategy you can design outdoor space that you and your family will enjoy for years! Need some help planning and choosing? This is what I love! Contact me to start brainstorming soon.

Bring in the Spring!

proadAccountId-422147 — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 14:16:33 GMT

Bring in the Spring!

Spring is full of promise. With just a few warm, sunny days in April, everything in nature starts to look brighter, cheerier, and cleaner.What a great time to think about perking up your home too!

Giving your home a spring refresh can be simple and accessible on any budget. Little changes that fit your lifestyle can significantly impact how much you love your spaces. If you’ve had it up to here with winter’s cozy vibe, here are five easy ways to lighten up your decor this season:

Tip #1 Switch out the fabrics and colors of your small accessories and create a new mood!

Replace that plaid fleece blanket you’ve snuggled up with through the cold months with a cotton throw in a softer color.
Consider new lamp shades with organic textures.
Transform your sofa, no matter its style, with new accent pillows. Vary the shapes, fabrics, and textures. Pick a new accent color you've never tried before.

Tip #2 Survey your blinds and drapery! Do they reflect your current style? Are they dusty? Is any of the hardware broken? Do they let the light in to brighten your spaces? Do they hide or highlight your windows and the landscape outside? There are many options to update your window treatments for both function and beauty.

Tip #3 Say "see you next year" to your flannel and down, and remake your bed with a lighter comforter, muslin coverlet, and crisp white sheets. Perfect for comfortable sleeping through the range of spring temperatures.

Tip #4 Get a handle on things! New hardware can feel like a mini renovation. Whether on kitchen cabinets, bathroom fixtures, or even doorknobs and hinges, switching the finish and shape of your pulls can change the look and feel of the room. It's a low-commitment way to try something on the trendier side, dress up a more casual room, or express your unique style.

Tip #5 To “air” is human… so let the spring breezes circulate through your home after many months of being sealed uptight. Wipe out your windowsills and shake out your rugs. And while you’re at it, think about your stuff. Room by room, for just a few minutes at a time, consider the items you really love and use. Dust them off and put them on display or at the front of the shelf. Throw away or recycle what’s broken. Donate what’s fallen out of favor or just takes up too much space.

Do you need help mapping out your “small changes that make a big difference”? Contact me at (203) 220-9137. I offer everything from a couple of hours of ideas and advice to a complete strategic plan. Let the spring updates begin!

Undertaking A Kitchen Renovation

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 07:37:20 GMT

Undertaking A Kitchen Renovation

As the owner and president of Susan Corvo Redesign, I specialize in interior design, interior decorating, redesign, and remodeling, with a definite focus on kitchens and baths. My belief is that you should have a beautiful and functional home, especially in your kitchen. The kitchen is the heart of the home, it's where people like to gather and congregate. So, if you want to undertake a kitchen remodel, where do you start? I always start by asking you what your dream kitchen would be. I like to ask clients for a Pinterest board, or a collection of pictures that they’ve collected so that I can really understand the vision they want to create. I start with what they want and what they absolutely dream about, and then we figure out what can actually work in their space.

No kitchen is one size fits all; everybody has a different sense of style. Some like farmhouse, some want modern, while others opt for traditional. Whatever your style preference may be, it’s important to find out what it is that you love and then make it happen within your space. Besides design style, the layout and functionality of your kitchen are incredibly important. Many people are realizing that they don’t really use their dining room space the way that they used to, which opens up the options for expanding the kitchen into an open floor plan. But decisions like this require thought and expert advice; you may want to remove a wall to open your space, but you don’t realize that now you’ve removed a wall of cabinetry. Having an interior designer to work with will solve many of these issues, as they’ll be able to give proper suggestions for how to make the best use of your space.

When designing a kitchen that you will love for years to come, I recommend that people stay a bit neutral. Don’t pick something crazy that you will hate 10 years down the road, whether it be a trendy design or paint color. Far too many times have I heard my clients say, “Why on earth did I pick this color?”, so I make sure to guide you through all of those decisions to ensure you make a choice that will last for years to come. Choosing the right mix of cabinets and drawers is very important. Your new kitchen should provide all the storage you need. Tall cabinets that go to the ceiling are amazing for storing things that you don’t use as often. Rollouts, spice organizers, cutting board dividers, etc. can make a huge impact on your kitchen remodel.

I’m often asked whether one should update versus renovating. Remodeling your kitchen is a big project, but when does it make sense to update rather than a full renovation? I would say it depends on how old your home is. For example, if your cabinets are in good condition but your countertop and hardware are outdated, this can easily be fixed with a kitchen update. But in the case that your entire kitchen is out of date, cabinetry is falling apart, lacking function, etc., then clearly a remodel is the best option. There really are so many benefits that are gained from a kitchen remodel, including improving the functionality and convenience of your space, adding significant storage, creating a space everyone will love, and adding value to your home.

Are you ready to undertake your own kitchen renovation? Then my Kitchen Remodel Package is the perfect solution for you! This package includes: Design consultation, Measurements of your room, Detailed scope of design direction and project, Floor plan and 3D design presentation, Color scheme selection, Material selections (we are able to source granite, marble, quartz, or quartzite.), Cabinet selection. (Ask us about our in-house cabinetry lines.), A full estimate of all specified materials, coordination of deliveries, and oversight of the installation. View my Design Packages , or call 203-663-3986 to get started!

Susan’s Favorite Things

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 04:17:12 GMT

February 2022
Susan’s Favorite Things

I get asked tons of questions for tips on upkeeping your home, organization, decorating, and more, which is why I’ve decided to share a round-up of some of my most used items every month. Here are a few of my favorite things that have helped inspire me and kept my home looking fantastic all month long!

Simply Green

February Favorite #1 - Love this powerful biodegradable cleaner and degreaser that is environmentally safe to use on counters, carpet, floors, fabric, equipment, vehicles, and more.

All-purpose concentrated cleaner removes dirt, grease, and stains
Cleans counters, carpet, floors, fabric, equipment, and vehicles
Use full strength on heavy messes or dilute for daily cleaning

Purchase Here! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07S4D8QQ8/ref=as_li_tl?ie= UTF8&tag=susacorvrede-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode =as2&creativeASIN=B07S4D8QQ8&linkId=357e046dd2f0d237b2e2f 38a64362c50

Drop Front Shoe Box

February Favorite #2 - So much better than regular shoeboxes that stack. Create customized storage to organize every pair of shoes from sneakers to heels with stackable Clear Click Lid Boxes. Efficient Access: The clear window of the drop-front shoebox lets you immediately see the pair stored inside. The front access opening means you don't have to unstack boxes to get the pair you want!

Purchase Here!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B092V9X3L9/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&ta g=susacorvrede-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASI N=B092V9X3L9&linkId=2504e2b28cbbbabed0a1bc5bf69e8168

Susan’s Favorite Things

Sat, 22 Jan 2022 07:11:04 GMT

January 2022
Susan’s Favorite Things

The holiday season is over and 2021 has come to an end, I think we all deserve a few inspirations to help start off the new year right. Here are a few of my favorite things that help inspire me and keep my home looking fantastic. Let’s get started!

Swiffer Sweeper + Vac Cordless Vacuum

January Favorite #1 - Swiffer Sweep + Vac is a rechargeable, cordless hard surface floor sweeper vacuum that is designed to clean dirt, dust, and hair. It uses an electrostatic dry cloth to dig deep and pick up dirt from textured grout lines and crevices. Then its powerful vacuum grabs larger particles like crumbs and pet hair. This is truly one of the best cleaning tools to keep your floors clean without having to drag out a large vacuum.

Purchase Here! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ZLUONKW/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=susacorvrede-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00ZLUONKW&linkId=379e0923839f4c5ad1c6177f25f77d4d

Microfiber Cloths

January Favorite #2 - Microfiber cloths are the best cleaning cloths for everyday use. They actually attract dust and dirt like a magnet. They can be used dry for dusting or wet for deeper cleaning. Just wash/dry and reuse. Also great for mopping floors but attaching to a Microfiber Floor Mop. Your floors will never be cleaner.

Purchase Here! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009FUF6DM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=susacorvrede-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B009FUF6DM&linkId=6ac2624e169418c3bb02bbd040518fac

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0133LB7NQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=susacorvrede-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0133LB7NQ&linkId=a194f6b581d5aab579f52e7ab6391b49

Susan Corvo & Designing Spaces!

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 07:45:50 GMT

Susan Corvo & Designing Spaces!

This year has been full of new projects, most of which have been helping my clients reimagine their spaces and love their homes. But, I have also been working on a personal project of my own and I am thrilled to finally be able to share it with you all!

My passion and goal are always for you to love your home, so when I was approached with the opportunity to be featured on Designing Spaces , I knew it was the perfect place to reach those who are unhappy in their current space but don’t know how to fix it. As I always say, “A beautiful home design starts with what you already have and love — and it can be affordable to anyone!”

Working with the Designing Spaces team was such a wonderful experience. And I am so excited to be able to share my insider design tips and explain how I create a beautiful, welcoming home affordably. Tune in to see my segment on Designing Spaces Saturday, December 11, at 9:00 AM on WNYW-FOX or Sunday, December 12, at 1:00 PM on WPIX-CW.

I believe in inspiring people to envision their ideal home and to help create the rituals that transform their everyday living. As an interior designer, decorator, and home remodel expert I am able to guide you through any home project from start to finish. Many people get overwhelmed by all the details involved in a home remodel or design project, which is why I like to make my services as accessible as possible, by offering many ways to work together.

Are you ready to reimagine your home? Call me for a consultation to determine your next steps! 203-663-3986 || Email, JustAskSusan@SusanCorvo.com

Do you love your home?

ctpost@digitalproductsuite.com — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 12:59:37 GMT

Do You Love Your Home?

When you walk through your front door, is your first thought, “I love my home!”? I believe everyone should love coming home and that a beautiful home does not have to be expensive or difficult to attain. It's all about creating a feeling of peace and tranquility with color, furniture and accessories.

Hygge (/ˈhjuːɡə/ HEW-gə or /ˈhuːɡə/ HOO-gə) is a Danish and Norwegian word which can be described as a quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture). And, my motto of ‘love coming home’ truly embodies this word.

As an interior designer, I believe in helping my customers create an environment that is both functional and supportive of their lifestyle. I like to focus on decor that is simple, harmonious and comfortable to bring peace and joy. In order to do this, we need to purge our “stuff” and embrace the concept less is more. Beyond designing your home, I also help to educate you for long term home styling and functionality.

Over the last year we have spent more time at home than at any other time in our lives. If you are not loving a room, or multiple rooms, give me a call so we can find a solution and redesign!

Are you ready to reimagine your home? Call me for a consultation to determine your next steps! 203-663-3986 || Email, JustAskSusan@SusanCorvo.com

Is your kitchen in need of a total gut and renovation, or could it benefit from a proper update?

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 14:09:58 GMT

Is your kitchen in need of a total gut and renovation, or could it benefit from a proper update?

This is an incredibly important question and one that you should be asking yourself before you call a contractor. Not all kitchens need to be gutted. If your cabinets are old and falling apart, yes, you need new ones. But if they are solid wood, they may just need a fresh coat of paint and some soft close hinges. On the other hand, if you are looking to expand your kitchen and take down walls, then yes, you need to gut.

There are many ways to update your kitchen. Painting cabinets, new doors, new countertops and backsplash, new lighting (pendants), new stools, new appliances, adding custom rollout shelves to increase storage, new cabinet hardware, etc.

With the cost of cabinets skyrocketing over the past few years, kitchen updating has become a great alternative. Especially if you already have a high end kitchen with solid wood cabinets, updating would be the ideal solution. With the simple updating of new doors, hardware and hinges, you can change the entire look and feel of your kitchen.

Luckily, there are always new design techniques being created to obtain better results. For example, the process of painting cabinets has improved dramatically over the past few years, with the finish looking like the factory finish of new cabinets. Easily create a focal point in your kitchen by painting the perimeter cabinets one color and the island a different one. Simple techniques like this can make all the difference in your home!

Are you ready to reimagine your kitchen? Call me for a consultation to determine your next steps!

203-663-3986 || Email, JustAskSusan@SusanCorvo.com

Kitchen Remodeling-Tips

ctpost@digitalproductsuite.com — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 13:27:02 GMT

Kitchen Remodeling-Tips

Homeowners remodel their kitchens for a whole slew of reasons. Maybe you are looking to increase the value of your home before putting it on the market. Perhaps your appliance have started making strange noises and it’s time for an update. Or maybe your lifestyle has changed and you prefer a more open, informal atmosphere to spend more time with your family. Whatever your reason for remodeling may be, one crucial element to consider is how you can optimize your kitchen space.

The kitchen is arguably the most used common area amongst all residents of the home so it’s important to make sure if the whole family is around, there’s enough space for everyone. There’s nothing worse than tripping over the dishwasher or poking your side on the corner of a table to get through. Ouch! We have all been there before.

So, where do I begin?

Starting a new home project can be intimidating, especially in an area of the home that is used so much. If you’re a homeowner, you may be asking yourself, “Where do I even begin?” The answer may sound simple but assess your current environment . If you have a separate room for your dining area, are you looking to remove a wall to connect the dining area to the kitchen? If you already have an open concept, start by taking inventory of everything you have e.g. appliances, utensils, plates, and so on.

Island

Nowadays, homeowners and residents are using separate dining rooms as home offices instead of eating dinner or hosting large gatherings during holidays. If you do not currently have an open concept, removing the wall between your kitchen and dining room will drastically increase the size of your kitchen space and allow for better traffic flow. This is great to consider if you have a smaller home and want to build an island. An island can be used to replace a formal dining table and proves to be a simple, yet effective, space saving solution. Islands are fantastic for busy families who want to enjoy a quick bite with each other or to communicate more efficiently. They’re also a good option to store your microwave and garbage can if there is a base cabinet. This way your microwave won’t be taking up precious space on your countertop and the trash won’t be stinking up the place!

Cabinets

It is important to take stock of all the items that you intend to use in your kitchen. What do you really need? Once you’ve determined you only need one or two peelers (instead of five) you can eliminate the excess. This way, when you’re redesigning your kitchen every item will have its own “home” for maximum organization and accessibility. In addition to islands, you can capitalize on storage space by installing taller cabinets over your stove top depending on your ceiling height. Historically, cabinets used to be 30” but as the needs of the modern household are changing, cabinets can range anywhere from 36” to 42”. Not only will you have more space to store your belongings but it will also make your kitchen look more high-end.

If you are thinking about renovating your kitchen, it’s important to consider you and your family’s needs upfront. Make sure you assess what you will be keeping versus throwing away to design the most useful space for your needs. The most sought after homes nowadays are those with an open concept because of the illusion of higher square footage, convenience of communicating with guests and loved ones, and optimizing storage space for all of your belongings.

Do you have a question about home renovations or redesign? Just ask Susan!

Your Front Door

Fri, 16 Aug 2019 17:19:36 GMT

Your Front Door

Your home’s exterior can say a lot about what is to come upon entering. So, what does your front door say about you? Since so many of us are using a back, side, or garage entrance, the front door is often forgotten about when it comes to a little home TLC. If you look at your front door right now, is it a little dirty? Dusty? Perhaps a few spiderwebs lingering, or other creepy little bugs? Old decorations from the last holiday?

Your front door is the first thing your friends, family, and other guests see when they come to visit. What type of impression does it give? How does it make you feel? I believe having a little curb appeal, with a welcoming and warm front door is best. A dusty, cold, sterile entry isn’t the most inviting.

My easiest recommendation for transforming your entry is by giving your space a good cleaning and a fresh coat of paint. This simple weekend project will instantly bring your entrance to life and add instant curb appeal! And did I mention that this is a great opportunity to be BOLD! Make your house standout by painting it a fun color. A little bright yellow will add cheer - True red is bold - A soft gray will create a peaceful vibe - While navy blue is always a classic choice.

Need help reimagining your front door? Let’s chat! 203-663-3986

Let's Discuss Your Roof

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 17:34:17 GMT

Let's Discuss Your Roof

As many of my friends and family know, I’ve got a thing for mailboxes. Style, placement, color…There’s just something about this outdoor decor that grabs my attention. But recently, a new outside aspect has been gaining a lot of my awareness. Let’s discuss your ROOF.

Driving through Fairfield County and beyond over the past few weeks, all I seem to notice are dirty roofs. Many of you might overlook this part of your home, but did you know that proper cleaning maintenance of your roof can actually extend the life of your shingles? Weathering, seasons, and wildlife put a lot of wear on this important part of your home. Think that your roof is fine, maybe just a little bit of dirt collection? All of those unsightly dark streaks aren’t actually
dirt, but a type of algae.

Chemical treatments are quick and effective for removing this algae, but eventually it will return, requiring a new round of cleaning and treatment every 5-6 years. Often homeowners think that a pressure wash is the answer to the “dirt” accumulation, but I highly advise to NOT pressure wash your roof. Pressure washing can severely damage and prematurely deteriorate shingle surfaces by removing their protective granules. And if you’re not careful, pressure washing could void your manufacturer's warranty.

While it might seem very tempting to make roof cleaning your next DIY project, I HIGHLY recommend hiring a professional roof cleaning company. They will know the best way to tackle your roof issues, assessing which areas are more prone to algae, how often you need treatments, as well as, knowing if potential surrounding trees could cause more damage due to shading or other factors.

Does your roof need a pick-me-up?

Reimagine Your World!

WHY CHOOSE SUSAN CORVO REDESIGN?

Mon, 06 May 2019 14:39:39 GMT

Why Choose Susan Corvo Redesign?

Susan Corvo Redesign, Reimagining Your World.

I believe everyone should love coming home and a beautiful home does not have to be expensive. I help home owners in Fairfield and Westchester counties reimagine their homes. Every home is unique and every person has his/her own taste and style. My job is to help you articulate what it is that you envision for your space and then create your dream home. My goal is to provide design and decorating elements that are both beautiful and functional to meet your specific needs.

I incorporate what you have and love in every design project. Repurposing, repainting, refinishing and relocating furniture is my specialty. An old Hitchcock stool can be repainted and reimagined as a side table. An old desk that was passed down from an aunt can be painted and re-purposed as a writing table in the living room for family pictures.

Choosing Susan Corvo Redesign will take the stress out of interior design and save you time and money. I will help you put it all together and put your style stamp on your home. Together we will create a design that makes daily living functional, comfortable and affordable.

Let me help you plan, research, and coordinate your interior design projects. I have many cost saving solutions and functional design ideas that you can benefit from. Whether it is one room or the whole house, my design consultation will provide a detailed guide that you can complete on your own or with me assisting. No project too small or too big. Isn’t it time you love each and every room in your home? Call me for a free phone consultation.

HOME DECOR – REIMAGINE YOUR FALL TO WINTER DECOR!

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Sat, 08 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Home Decor – Reimagine Your Fall To Winter Decor!

Transitioning your fall home decor to winter can be very easy, and doesn’t have to be a burden on your budget or time. There are easy ways to reuse, and rework your current home style into a beautiful winter wonderland for your family and friends to enjoy, so let’s begin!

REIMAGINE TIP #1 – Keep your fall foliage, nuts, and dried seasonal fruits.

Keeping these simple elements around your home are a great way to easily transition from fall into winter, as many of the same tones and textures still apply to the season.

REIMAGINE TIP #2 – Paint your pumpkins and gourds.

Easily change pumpkins and gourds into a beautiful winter wonderland element, by painting white! You can even add gemstones or glitter, for a little added sparkle.

REIMAGINE TIP #3 – Fill hurricane vases with holiday ornaments.

Remove your fall flower arrangements, or other elements, and refill with a mixture of blue and silver holiday ornaments. Adding other elements like tulle, or string lights, are other simple ways to enhance the presentation.

REIMAGINE TIP #4 – Fill your lanterns with holiday elements.

You might have filled your outdoor lanterns with mini pumpkins and acorns over the fall season, but you can easily swap them for winter without breaking the bank. Paint your mini pumpkins white, or remove and replace with holiday ornaments.

If you’re still not sure what to do with your fall or winter decor, don’t stress. I can work with you to create the perfect winter wonderland for you to enjoy with your family and friends. Let’s chat!

WHAT IS YOUR ‘HOLIDAY HOME’ STYLE?

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Thu, 15 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

What Is Your ‘Holiday Home’ Style?

Fall is here, and with the holiday season quickly approaching there is an abundance of beautiful design inspiration everywhere you look! Whether it’s the natural elements brought to us from the changing of the seasons, or cute little decor pieces in a window shop, no matter what this season brings an element of design inspiration to everyone. But, with so much creativity around it is easy to get carried away and go overboard on your holiday home decor.

If you’re not exactly sure where to go when it comes to home decor, keeping things simple is my best advice. Let’s dive into some of my tips for decorating your home this fall holiday season!

TIP #1 – Use the fall color palette.

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TIP #2 – Decorate with natural Fall elements.

TIP #3 – Copper & Plaid.

Using design elements in copper, or copper tones, is ideal for the fall season. Another great go-to option, is plaid. Add a plaid throw blanket to your family room couch, for an instant cozy, fall style.

TIP #4 – Decorate your front door or entry way with ‘mumkins’.

For a cute twist on your normal fall planters, how about trying Mumkins. Easily recreate this festive decor! Simply choose a few pumpkins of your liking, I prefer choosing a variety of sizes. Core them out as you would before carving, and then fill with your favorite combination of fall toned mums!

Have an idea of your holiday home, but not sure how to make it happen? Just don’t have the time to decorate? Don’t let the holiday season overwhelm you! Let’s work together to create your ideal holiday home style, and allow me to ease your decorating stress.

FAMILY HOME DESIGN

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Tue, 23 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Family Home Design

Do you love coming home? If your answer is “no”, or, “not every room”, then it is time to reimagine and redesign! Interior design allows you to enhance your space to be functional, as well as beautiful. Your home should reflect your personal style and energy, while achieving a healthier, more purposeful use of space. Let’s dive right in and help you discover the elements to designing a home with form, function, organization, and beauty.

Mudroom Design

Your entryway or mudroom should be efficient, so when you design your space organization is KEY! Whatever the size of your family, finding the perfect way to stash your accessories can be tough. Using a combination of both open and hidden storage is a great idea. Less used outerwear can easily be tucked away in tall cabinets. While, open shelving is more effective for everyday items, and hooks are amazing for grab-and-go exits. Bench seating is another great element for your mudroom or entryway. Not only does it give you a place to take off your wet boots, but it also doubles as an organization hub. Using your favorite storage containers, you can easily slide away the kids outdoor toys, beach towels, sports gear, dogs toys, and more, neatly underneath your bench.

Family Room Design

Next up is your family room, or living room. It’s the heart of your home for family gatherings, entertaining, and relaxation. It’s easy for things to get disorganized and a little out of control when it comes to your family room. Often there are magazines, books, assorted mail, and a cup from earlier, left hiding somewhere in this room of your home. A tip is to make sure that your flat surfaces are always clean. Handle your mail daily! It’s one of the number one items to pile up on tables and counters. If paper, books, or other related items tend to always hang around, invest in a modern file cabinet or stackable file cart. If your kids toys are the issue, opt for cute organization bins in a neutral color as to blend into the background of your room. Another great option for your children’s toys are rolling bins. Having movable storage will allow your child to move their playstation anywhere around the room. Your child can be more creative and won’t feel confined, and they will be able to clean up their toys in a more fun and engaging way. Your coffee table is an often overlooked piece of furniture. Coffee tables that look great but don’t serve a purpose aren’t going to be ideal. Consider choosing a table with spaces for remote controls, dvd storage, magazine, coasters, or other living room essentials.

These design ideas are also great for applying to your playroom! Adding furniture pieces with cubbies for organization is a no brainer. Having designated areas for your board games, stuffed animals, and books are essential for easy cleanup, while keeping a beautiful aesthetic. A great little tip for storing board games and other game accessories is to use plastic storage organizers! Having a corner or shelf full of mixed shaped boxes tends to look messy and unappealing. Using a simple organizer with a drawer for each game can help save space and give you a more aesthetically pleasing look.

Interior design doesn’t have to be difficult or overwhelming. If you are seeking guidance or recommendations for designing your home, Susan Corvo Redesign is just a click away!

Follow my link to start designing the rooms you’ve been needing – Susan Corvo Redesign

This month’s blog was featured on The Local Moms Network of Greenwich

DIY – REDESIGN :: 5 EASY & CREATIVE FURNITURE REDESIGN IDEAS

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Thu, 20 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

DIY – Redesign: 5 Easy & Creative Furniture Redesign Ideas

When people think of revamping a room, many seem to gravitate to the idea of new furniture, new paint, new everything. But, throwing away and starting brand new isn’t always the best option. Here are 5 easy and creative furniture redesign ideas that will have you rethinking that old, outdated chair you have in the corner of your living room!

#1 – LAMP REDESIGN

#2 – DRESSER REDESIGN

#3 – DRAWER REDESIGN

#4 – HEADBOARD REDESIGN

#5 – KITCHEN/CHINA CABINET

REIMAGINE YOUR WORLD

20 Ways To Revive Your Space That Won’t Break Your Bank Account

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

20 Ways To Revive Your Space That Won’t Break Your Bank Account

Our homes should always be a source of relaxation and inspiration. But I’m sure we can all relate to the nagging feeling of walking in the house and seeing the same thing every day. After a while what we once loved seeing, we grow tired of. And instead of changing that old painting on the wall, or swapping out that old rug, you just fall out of love with your home. Whatever it is that is making you not like a room in your home, I’ve got 20 simple, inexpensive ways to help you reimagine, rearrange, and reinvigorate your space!

Let’s Get Started!

1 – Go around your home and get rid of any dying or dead house plants!

2 – Now that you’ve gotten rid of all the dead plants, go get some fresh flowers!

3 – Try an artistic and unique vase

4 – Rearrange your furniture!

5 – If you have a photo/gallery wall, rearrange the order! Or, switch out a few photos for a couple new images to freshen it up

6 – Switch out your current book stack with new books

7 – Change your shelf aesthetic

8 – Try a new center piece for your coffee table

9 – Add some decorative pillows to help give your living room a new pop!

10 – Change your window treatments out for some fresh curtains with a pop of color or print

11 – Update your kitchen or bathroom hardware

12 – Let your inner designer shine & create your own table topper arrangement!

13 – Add floral artwork

14 – Make your fireplace mantel unique

15 – Create a trendy wine display

16 – Accent Chair..if you don’t have one, opt for something simple then dress it up with a throw blanket and comfy pillow

17 – Add unique artwork above your bed

18 – Try a new bedside lamp

19 – Add Mirrors

20 – Change your color scheme – Sometimes it’s just time to repaint

Want more ideas? Check out my Design Blogfor more home decor ideas, tips, tricks, and trends!

Fairfield County Interior Design Series: Color Trends 2018

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Wed, 14 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Fairfield County Interior Design Series: Color Trends 2018

Finally color is returning! The idea that everything has to be gray and neutral is losing favor to adding bold beautiful color. That doesn’t mean you have to paint over your gray walls, just add some fun colors in pillows, accessories or artwork. The 2018 color trend is bold and bright.

The Pantone 2018 Color of the Year is Ultra Violet! It is a blue based purple.

“A dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade, PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future.” Ref pantone website

Although I am not a purple fan, the color is deep and rich. Purple is the color of royalty. It would look great as an accent wall in a bedroom, pillows on a gray sofa or as bedding.

Glidden’s 2018 Color of the Year is Deep Onyx (00NN 07/000). It is a true classic black and a neutral color. Black goes with everything just like white. Using black for trim and doors instead of white can create a bold look. Black on cabinets is stunning. For walls, it must be paired with light furnishings and lots of natural light. Maybe start with an accent wall.

Benjamin Moore’s color of the year is Caliente (AF-290). They are describing it as strong, radiant and full of energy. It is a bright red color. I guess I am ahead of my time since I painted my front doors Caliente five years ago. It is a fabulous red without orange undertones. Great accent wall color with neutral furnishings. Looks great with so many colors.

Sherwin Williams color of the year is Oceanside (SW 6496). “A complex, deep color that offers a sense of the familiar with a hint of the unknown, Oceanside, bridges together a harmonious balance of blues and greens that can be found in what’s old and new.” Ref sw website

The color reminds me of a dark teal. It is very bold and does not remind me of the ocean. With that said, because it is the color of the year, You will see this used in every house by the beach. I would suggest using it in accessories.

Behr’s Color of the Year In the Moment (T18-15) is a more calming beach color.
“This cool, tranquil, spruce blue is inspired by nature and is a soothing, restorative coalescence of blue, gray and green. This comfortable color evokes a sense of sanctuary and relaxation amid our busy, always-on lives.” Per website

Definitely a warmer color than Oceanside, I can see this used on walls, in accessories and even great for a front door with gray siding.

If you are thinking of painting, call me for a color consult.

Fairfield County Interior Design Series: Mailboxes

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Mon, 13 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Fairfield County Interior Design Series: Mailboxes

So what does your mailbox say about you?

Is it falling over, dented, missing the door, rusted or just plain neglected? Does the door open and close? Is the little red flag still attached and working properly? Is your house number legible or fading and falling off? And what about some plants around the post or is it just a lonely pole in the ground? As I drive along the roads of Fairfield County, I see some beautiful mailboxes and some of the ugliest and sorry looking mailboxes.

Your mailbox may be someone’s first impression of your home and definitely adds to your curb appeal.

Take pride in your mailbox and clean it up with some paint. Spray painting is easy and there are many color choices. Make sure to choose a paint that complements you’re house. Maybe one that matches your front door (red door, red mailbox). A decorative mailbox post add great curb appeal and can give your mailbox a definite style. If that is not in the budget, at least stain or paint your post. Remember to add the finial on top of the post. The house number can be an added plate or separate numerals. As for plants at the base of the post, try adding a variety of perennials that bloom at different times or ones that stay green the longest.

As you get your mail today, take a good look at your mailbox and ask yourself if it is adding any curb appeal to your home. If not, then maybe it’s a great weekend project to repaint or replace.

On the hunt for Fairfield or Westchester area interior design help? We may have just the solution! A beautiful home does not have to be expensive. Call me for a free phone consultation: (203) 220-9137.

Fairfield County Home Staging Series: Curb appeal

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Wed, 09 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Fairfield County Home Staging Series: Curb appeal

Fairfield Home Staging Series: Step 4 to Prepare your Fairfield County Home for Sale: Curb Appeal

Welcome to Step 4 of our Fairfield Home Staging Blog Series! So far, in our Fairfield Home Staging series, we have reviewed:

Home Staging Step 1: FAIRFIELD HOME STAGING SERIES: STEP #1 IN PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR SALE: Click here to view the Fairfield Home Staging Blog

Home Staging Step 2: FAIRFIELD HOME STAGING SERIES: STEP 2 TO PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR SALE: Click here to view the Fairfield Home Staging Blog

Home Staging Step 2: FAIRFIELD HOME STAGING SERIES: STEP 3 TO PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR SALE: Click here to view the Fairfield Home Staging Blog

Now, let’s talk about the importance of curb appeal as an essential component of staging your Fairfield County, CT home!

You never get a second change to make a great first impression and your curb appeal makes a difference.

When someone drives up to your house what do they see?

Is your mailbox hanging off its post or missing the front panel? Is it rusted and dented? Are there any plants around the post? How does your house look from the street? Many buyers around Fairfield County will do drive-bys before they even call a realtor to book a showing. You want them to be so impressed with the curb appeal that they are clamoring to get inside.

A Well manicured Landscape and gardens will attract buyers. Even though they may come from a place with no garden or shabby yard, they want to aspire to live in a beautiful home like they see on HGTV. Give them that illusion and you have a potential buyer. You need to lure them into the house starting with the mailbox by replacing it if needed or painting. A bright red box with white pole for example.

Make sure you have some flowers planted around the area both annuals and perennials. Hosta and day lillys and spirea coneflowers are easy to maintain. Annuals like new wave petunias or zinnas will add constant color. As they drive up the driveway, make sure they see a beautiful enticing front entrance. Have flowers blooming with the shrubs. Powerwash the walkway. And by all means wash the front door. No one wants cobwebs in their face. A fresh coat of paint for the

front door is a must. Your front door should pop with color. Buy A new attractive welcome mat . If space allows add urns of annuals. If you have a portico, wash the ceiling. If you look up you will see it is full of bugs. Make sure the lights are clean with new bright bulbs. No toys should be present and no trash cans in site. Garden hoses should be wound and out of site. Gardens mulched with brown not red mulch. Gutters should be in good condition and not overflowing with leaves. For those of you lucky enough to have a front porch add some rockers or a swing. Help a prospective buyer imagine themselves sipping lemonade on the front porch.

Give buyers a great first impression by having a beautiful curb appearance. If you need some help accomplishing this task, give me a call.

Call Susan Corvo Redesign for an Fairfield County home staging consultation: 203.220.9137

Fairfield Interior Design Series: Bathroom Remodel

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Thu, 03 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Fairfield Interior Design Series: Bathroom Remodel

Welcome back to our Fairfield Interior Design Blog Series. In our last post, we discussed color trends for 2017 . Today we will discuss bathroom remodeling. Thank you to our Fairfield Interior Design Blog Series followers, and stay tuned for our next Fairfield Interior Design Blog Series post!

Here’s a Shout out to all of you with pink, blue and avocado green bathrooms dating over 30 years ago . It’s time to remodel! Throughout interior design projects in Fairfield County, I have seen some well-maintained blue and pink toilets and tubs over the last few years. A bathroom renovation doesn’t have to be outrageously expensive and will be an interior design investment that will definitely enhance the value of your home.

If you are going to remodel, the first element to consider is replacing the tub which if it is original with the house, may be difficult to match in size. Some older bathrooms have pedestal sinks or small single basin vanities.

Check to see if you have the room for a double vanity , especially in an upstairs hall bath. My preference in full baths is a vanity with storage. Pedestal sinks offer no counter space or storage of toiletries. There are a lot of great vanity/sink/counter combinations available online at places like houzz and wayfair . Just check to make sure they are made from real wood and not mdf or particle board.

I am a big proponent of recessed medicine cabinets above the vanity. They add so much extra storage and enable you to keep the counter clear. If you have double sinks, then you need either 2 mirrors or 2 medicine cabinets. There should be lights above each or on the sides. Lights should be bright enough to allow for makeup application at the vanity. Recessed lights in the ceiling are also necessary but they do not replace the vanity lights. Lighting is a huge component of interior design whether for the bathroom, kitchen, or bedroom.

Faucet trends are favoring single hole, single handle faucets. This also allows more room on the counter, especially for smaller vanities. You need to choose your finish for the bathroom, i.e. chrome, satin nickel, oil rubbed bronze or brass (satin) and stick with this throughout. Meaning toilet bowl handles, shower/tub faucets, vanity faucets and lights, mirror frames if not wood and cabinet hardware are all the same finish.

As for tile , you need to coordinate the floor and shower/tub surround choices. The floor doesn’t have to blend into the background walls. Look for patterned tiles that complement the floors. Geometric and honeycomb shapes are an interior design trend for 2017. Subway tile is still classic but another option is to use the larger (longer) subway tiles in a vertical pattern. Pick an accent tile for the shower/bath walls that highlights the design and can be used in the shower niche. Shower niches in all shapes and sizes not only add function but great design.

Gone are the days of tiling only half the wall… an interior design trend of yesteryear. The trend is for floor-to-ceiling tiled walls that give the illusion of more space and reflect light. Continuing the accent tile in shower to the wall by the vanity add a great design element.

Next is your toilet and there are so many styles and colors available it can be overwhelming to choose. I suggest comfort height and white. As for style, it depends on whether you want contemporary, traditional or transitional interior design.

Some newer ideas for the bathroom are the curbless shower entry and the wet room for smaller spaces. The recessed drain is being used for the curbless entry. Other great ideas for the bathroom include a slide away step (hidden under vanity) for kids, powersockets inside the vanity drawers, and toilet paper niche between the studs.

Don’t be overwhelmed with your bathroom remodel, call me!

Considering hiring a Fairfield Interior Design Company? Consider Susan Corvo Redesign for your bathroom remodel.

We provide Interior Design services to Fairfield County, CT including these towns: Bethel, Bridgeport, Brookfield, Danbury, Darien, Easton, Fairfield, Greenwich, Monroe, New Canaan, New Fairfield, Newtown, Norwalk, Shelton, Sherman, Stamford, Stratford, Redding, Ridgefield, Trumbull, Weston, Westport, Wilton, CT

Contact Susan today for your free Fairfield Interior Design consultation!

phone | 203.220.9137
email | susan@susancorvo.com

Fairfield Interior Design Series: Color Trends for 2017

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Fairfield Interior Design Series: Color Trends for 2017

Fairfield Interior Design Series: Color Trends for 2017 and how to incorporate them into your home.

Welcome back to our Fairfield Interior Design Blog Series. Today we will discuss color trends in 2017. Thank you to our Fairfield Interior Design Blog Series followers, and stay tuned for our next post!

In the interior design world, the word trend is defined as “current style or preference”. Color trends change each year and many of my Fairfield interior design clients ask me how to stay current in their decorating choices. Each year there is a new “color of the year” pertaining to interior design. Keep in mind, just because it’s a trend, doesn’t mean you have to like it and incorporate into your Fairfield interior design and décor.

Fairfield interior design gurus: Have a passion for what’s current? For 2017, Navy is the new black and satin brass is all the rage. This does not mean the old bright brass is back in style nor do you have to paint all your black furniture navy blue. Neutrals are becoming warmer with beiges, browns, and creams. This I find a relief since I am so tired of the “shades of gray”. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good gray color but too many people were painting their walls gray and it just didn’t match with their décor. It became the realtor’s choice of color for every home on the market and looked ridiculous with the furnishings. Blush pink is the new neutral. This is not Pepto-Bismol pink. It is a soft, warm pink with a cast of peach that looks great with grays, browns and creams. Camel is being brought back as an accent color in walls, furniture, textiles or accent pieces.

There is an interest in the psychology of color and accent hues are being used to inspire different moods, from joy to productivity. Not sure why this is a new trend since color has always has meaning and emotion. Red pumps the adrenaline and can stimulate appetite, hence all the red dining rooms. Orange signified enthusiasm, creativity and warmth. Yellow is welcoming, sunny, bright and enthusiastic. Green represents nature and can be tranquil, restful and balancing. The Pantone color of 2017 is green and we are seeing many shades of it including lime green. Blues are connected to both sky and water and are associated with clear thinking as well as calm, meditative environments. Purple is associated with luxury, wealth, sophistication, romance and royalty.

Fairfield interior design enthusiasts: How do you stay current with your décor? Considering most people redecorate a room every 10-15 years, I always recommend to clients to keep the larger, more expensive pieces in a room in a neutral color. This includes the furniture, flooring (carpet, wood or tile), and wall paint. Then I add color with accessory pieces like pillows, throws, and accent pieces. This way you can change out these less expensive pieces if you want to incorporate the current color trends. With Home Goods only a short drive away, you can add fun, trendy elements to any room without breaking the bank.

Considering hiring a Fairfield Interior Design company?

Consider the benefits of consulting with Susan Corvo Redesign for your Fairfield interior design needs. We offer a wonderful alternative to the often costly interior design service – Redesign may be a great alternative for you.

What is redesign? Why is it a great alternative to realize your Fairfield interior design dreams?

Redesign is different from Interior Design in that it starts with what you already own and love, and then adds to it. Redesign identifies the very personal in order to create a home that is perfectly designed to your style, color, patterns, collections, photographs, and so on.

I believe that successful interior redesign is the art of using organization and decorating techniques to create an environment that is comfortable, stress free, beautiful and unique to you, so you can say, “I love and feel at home in each room of my house.” It is the art of using what you already have in new and fresh ways, as well as incorporating tried and true decorating rules throughout, that make your house “feel like home”. Fairfield interior design prospects: Read more here to learn about our Redesign service.

We serve Fairfield County, CT including these towns: Bethel, Bridgeport, Brookfield, Danbury, Darien, Easton, Fairfield, Greenwich, Monroe, New Canaan, New Fairfield, Newtown, Norwalk, Shelton, Sherman, Stamford, Stratford, Redding, Ridgefield, Trumbull, Weston, Westport, Wilton, CT

Contact Susan today for your free Interior Redesign Fairfield County Home Staging or Interior Redesign Consultation!

phone | 203.220.9137
email | susan@susancorvo.com

Fairfield Home Staging Series: Step 3 to Prepare your Home for Sale

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Mon, 10 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Fairfield Home Staging Series: Step 3 to Prepare your Home for Sale

Fairfield Home Staging Series: Step 3 to Prepare your Fairfield County Home for Sale: Declutter!

Welcome to Step 3 of our Fairfield Home Staging Blog Series! So far, in our Fairfield Home Staging series, we have reviewed:

Home Staging Step 1: FAIRFIELD HOME STAGING SERIES: STEP #1 IN PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR SALE: Click here to view the Fairfield Home Staging Blog

Home Staging Step 2: FAIRFIELD HOME STAGING SERIES: STEP 2 TO PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR SALE: Click here to view the Fairfield Home Staging Blog

Now, on to Home Staging Step 3: Declutter

“Everybody’s gotta have a little place for their stuff. That’s all life is about. Trying to find a place for your stuff.” — George Carlin

When it comes to selling your home, nobody wants to see all of your stuff. It’s time to start purging your stuff or putting it into a storage facility. This is a crucial step in the Home Staging process, and is Step 3 in our Fairfield Home Staging series. Think “less is more”. You’ll need to pack away everything that you either don’t use every day or doesn’t make your house beautiful. Do you still need all of your kids baby toys and clothes? Do you need your jeans from high school? Of course if you are downsizing, this purge is a necessity. An an important component of Home Staging, decluttering goes beyond the basement and attic. Its ok to have packed boxes neatly stacked in both these spaced but clear out the rest. Every closet and cabinet needs to be addressed because buyers are nosy and open up all drawers/cabinets.

Living room 3 | Fairfield Home Staging by Susan Corvo

You want them to think there is plenty of room for storage, even if it is a little small and tight.

Start with the bathroom vanity/medicine cabinet and clear out/throw out old toiletries. Leave room for a small tote with your essential toiletries that you will hide for showings. Always keep a simple soap dispenser by each sink. The linen closet should be used for just that, towels and linens, maybe some toiletries. If you are storing everything but the kitchen sink in this small closet, time to reorganize it to look like Macy’s bath department. In the kitchen, you need to be able to see the countertops. No appliances other than the coffee machine should be visible. No one wants to see the dirty toaster oven or blender. A nice kitchen aid stand mixer would be acceptable. Definitely no mail in piles or scattered around. All cabinets and drawers should be organized and look roomy. Since you already removed personal items in step 2 of our Fairfield Home Staging Blog series “depersonalize”, the only thing left to pack up are any leftover nic nacs. Remember, the buyer needs to imagine their own belongings in each room… there is no room for clutter, especially dealing in the competitive Fairfield County, CT real estate market. If your rooms are crowded with too much furniture or bulky pieces, maybe rent a storage unit or relocate items to other rooms or the basement. The furniture should also be arranged to allow the best flow in the room and highlight the focal point. Meaning the sofa may need to be relocated to highlight the fireplace rather than the TV. Bedrooms should contain the bed, nightstands and maybe a desk if space permits.

Bedroom | Fairfield Home Staging by Susan Corvo

The goal is to make the room look spacious. All rooms should be staged as they were meant to be.

Meaning that a dining room should be a dining room, not the play room. Throw away stacks of magazines, papers or books. This goes for the furniture outside of your home as well. Whether it’s a front porch, a deck, or a pool and patio you want to arrange the furniture so that it is presentable.

This may seem a little crazy but marketing a home is all in the details. Really, a buyer doesn’t want to know you live there. If you need some Fairfield Home Staging assistance, call me!

Call Susan Corvo Redesign for an Fairfield County home staging consultation: 203.220.9137

Contact Susan today!

Fairfield Home Staging Series | Home Staging Statistics

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Fri, 07 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Home Staging Statistics

Welcome to our Fairfield Home Staging Blog Series! This article aims to define Home Staging, list some statistics, and explain and why home staging is helpful in selling your Fairfield County, CT home.

Definition of Home Staging: the act of preparing a private residence for sale in the real estate marketplace. The goal of staging is to make a home appealing to the highest number of potential buyers in Fairfield County, thereby selling a property more swiftly and for more money.

The Real Estate Staging Association , recently release their Home Staging Statistics Report , based on home staging statistics self-reported by professional home stagers nationally. Homes staged before listing sell 90% faster than homes listed on the MLS unstaged. Unstaged homes spent an average of 184 Days On Market (DOM). Once those same homes were staged, they sold, on average, in 41 days. However, homes that were staged prior to listing sold, on average in 23 days!

Other Home Staging statistics include:

· Realtors who work with buyers say most buyers are willing to offer more money for a staged home compared to one that is similar but not staged.

· 81% of buyers say home staging makes it easier to visualize the property as their future home.

· 45% of buyers say it will positively impact the value of the home if it is decorated to the buyer’s tastes.

· Among REALTORS® who typically represent the buyer, 49% report most buyers are affected by home staging.

· A survey by Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corp . found that staged homes spend half the time on the market than non-staged homes.

· The National Association of Realtors (NAR) survey found that the longer homes stay on the market, the further their price drops.

· Once staged, homes spend an average of 73% less time on the market.

· Buyers are willing to spend 1% to 5% more of the dollar value on a staged home than a non-staged home.

· A survey by Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corp. found that staged homes sell for more than 6% above the asking price.

In today’s real estate market, especially in Fairfield County, home staging is a must!

How Susan Corvo Redesign can help with your Fairfield Home Staging needs:

Before you can stage your Fairfield home for sale, you need to actively prepare it, which includes home staging.

Preparing a home for sale is an arduous task and ideally should start at least 6 months before you call a realtor. When the realtor sees your home already prepared, you can expect a higher market analysis.

I can help you simplify this process by preparing a detailed project plan that includes packing, cleaning, repairs, modernizing, painting, etc. Not only does this investment prepare the home to be attractive to the broadest range of potential buyers, but it helps it sell quickly and for more money . Own a home in Fairfield County, CT? Lets talk Fairfield Home Staging!

Home Staging is a process to merchandise a home for potential demographic buyers by creating emotional connection points.

An average investment of 1-3% of the home’s asking price will generate an 8-10% return in the sale price of the home (National Association of Realtors). A professionally staged home spends 73% less time on the market (Real Estate Staging Association).

Call Susan Corvo Redesign for an Fairfield County home staging consultation: 203.220.9137

Fairfield Home Staging Series | Front Doors

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Welcome to our Fairfield Home Staging Blog Series post on front doors. I just love the new trend for colorful front doors. The front door is a place to express your style or personality but remember it still has to blend into overall exterior color scheme. It is time to say goodbye to boring wood or black doors. Grand entryways are a popular trend and front doors are becoming larger with unique touches like transom windows or arches. I believe that your front door is the face of your home, which is what I preach to my Fairfield Home Staging and interior redesign clients.

Color trends for traditional shades are jet black, steel blue, pine green and crisp white. For vivid shades loving bright yellow, cobalt blue and purple. For pretty pastels choose primrose yellow, duck egg blue or light violet. If you think your front door is boring, call me for a color consult! We provide home staging in Fairfield as well as interior redesign services.
Entryways include lighting and landscaping. Outdoor lights should be sized correctly and landscaping should accent the entryway. It’s always worth investing in good quality door accessories such as letterboxes, doorknobs and knockers, and try to make sure you choose door furniture that is in keeping with the style and age of your property.

What does your front door say about you? Check out this article from house beautiful .

Fairfield Home Staging Series: Step 2 to Prepare your Home for Sale

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Mon, 15 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Looking for a Fairfield Home Staging Company?

Welcome to Step 2 of our Fairfield Home Staging Blog Series. Today we will discuss ways to de-clutter your home to increase probability of a quicker sale. Thank you to our Fairfield Home Staging Blog Series followers, and stay tuned for Step 3!

Depersonalize and minimize your presence: Remove family photos, personal items, nic nacs, decorations and lighten up bookshelves. It’s harder for someone to imagine themselves living there if they’re looking at pictures of your family. Anything religious should be removed as well because not everyone is religious or is the same religion as you. Remove all toiletries from showers/vanity tops, toilet bowl cleaners/brushes and extra rolls of toilet paper. No towels or bathrobes should be hanging in bathroom. Home Staging does not have to be difficult, but keep in mind personal areas like Kitchen and Bathrooms! A house for sale does not usually need as much furniture as a house you are living in. Get rid of unnecessary furniture, and anything that can be stored until after closing. This will help your house look larger, cleaner and ready for a new owner. Your home should look somewhat “unlived” in. Buyers have a hard time imagining themselves in a home if it is covered in someone else’s stuff- that’s why I stress the importance of professional home staging! Buyers want to imagine they are buying a new home. If buyers can’t tell whether or not you live there, you’ve done your job well. The de-personalization of your house is one of the top 10 critical steps to take before listing your home for sale writes Andrew Fortune, of GreatColoradoHomes.com

A key component of our stance on professional home staging is neutralizing wall paint colors : Buyers want move in condition with neutral paint colors not a pink bathroom, an orange kitchen or purple bedroom. Even if they are your favorite colors, they may not appeal to everyone. Go neutral and appeal to the maximum number of buyers with your color choices. Neutral does not have to be gray. The color you choose should complement your decor. There are many creams and beiges that would work. I do many color consults for home staging and am able to pick a color to paint throughout your house.

And finally, I can not stress the importance of erasing evidence of pets in home staging! You need to make it look like you never had a pet if at all possible. New buyers will smell the smells and notice the fur, stains, and wreckage left behind by your animal. If they are allergic to animals, they will not buy your house if they notice major evidence of dogs or cats. Do whatever it takes to eliminate these signs, including shampooing or replacing carpet, repairing sod and fences and keeping the dog at a friend’s house during showings.

Thanks for reading Step 2 of our Fairfield Home Staging Blog Series. Stay tunes for more articles!

On the hunt for a Fairfield, CT Home Staging company? We may have just the solution. Our goal is to help our Fairfield County clients sell homes faster via professional home staging.

A beautiful home does not have to be expensive. Call me for a free phone consultation: (203) 220-9137.

Providing Professional home staging services to Fairfield County, CT: Fairfield, Westport, Wilton, Stamford, New Canaan, Darien, Norwalk, Ridgefield, Shelton, Trumbull, CT and beyond

Fairfield Interior Design Series: Under Stairs Storage

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Thu, 11 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Fairfield Interior Design Series: Under Stairs Storage

Clever User of Under-Stair Space | Fairfield Interior Design Blog Series

Welcome to our Fairfield Interior Design Blog Series post on utilizing under stairs storage in your Fairfield County home. There is so much that can be done with the empty space under a staircase. As long as there isn’t another stairwell below, the possibilities are endless. I believe in never wasting space and you can never have enough storage, which is what I preach to my design clients across Fairfield County, CT.

First think about where in the house the staircase exits and what your needs are for that room. If it’s the living room, maybe built in bookshelves or a tv/entertainment area. A cozy reading nook is always fun. Or just leave it open for to extend the interior setting. It would be large enough for a sofa or a couple of chairs. In the hallway, if you are tight on closet space, a coat/shoe organizer can be created. The compartment can be divided so every member of the family can have its own space. You can leave it open or closed off with doors. For entertaining, this is a great space for a bar area with wine storage, sink and cabinets. A staircase in the family room could be redesigned for desks to create a study area for kids or office for adults. Clever interior design is for pets, too… for the pet in the family, a nice crated area can be built under the stairs. If you have a staircase going to the third floor or one in the basement, the laundry area could fit nicely under the stairs. If the staircase is in a bedroom, maybe built in drawers. Determining just the right use an certainly be an interior design challenge!

Storage solutions | Fairfield Interior Design Blog Series

Here are some clever interior design under stair solutions on Pinterest

Just remember that the design of this space must fit in with your purpose and décor for that specific room. If you are intrigued, call me to help you reimagine your staircase.

Looking to hire a Fairfield interior design company? Why not consider redesign instead? Our goal is to help our clients sell homes faster via staging, interior design, interior redesign services.

If you are looking to hire a Fairfield interior design company, consider a free consultation with Susan Corvo Redesign of Fairfield. Contact Susan today.

Our belief is that a beautiful home does not have to be expensive. Call for a free phone consultation: (203) 220-9137.

Susan Corvo redesign serves Fairfield County, CT: Fairfield, Westport, Wilton, Stamford, Darien, Norwalk, Ridgefield, Shelton, New Canaan, Trumbull, CT and beyond.

Fairfield Interior Design Series: Design & Functionality: Strike the Perfect Balance

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Wed, 28 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Welcome to my Fairfield Interior Design Series on striking the perfect balance between design and functionality.

Considering hiring a Fairfield Interior Design company? Work with us for creative design for storage and functionality.

I believe all of my Fairfield neighbors should love coming home, and that a beautiful home doesn’t have to be expensive. I also believe that Functional design is imperative in a home. If you live in a small space, each piece of furniture should be functional and beautiful. A pedestal sink may look pretty, but gives you absolutely no storage capability. A beautiful mirror is nice – but a pretty, functional recessed medicine cabinet gives you somewhere to put all your “stuff”. You can never have enough cabinets in the kitchen. A place to put things away leads to less clutter and chaos. Which in turns leads to less stress.

The biggest complaint I hear from my Fairfield Interior Design clients is the lack of storage space. I am a firm believer that less is more. A clean and organized home provides peace and harmony. I love these under cabinet storage solutions. They are perfect for small kitchens that are tight on storage space and any size bathroom.

Looking for creative storage solutions? We work with home owners across Fairfield County, CT

Almost all cabinets have this extra space, but it is usually covered with molding. In the kitchen, you can use it to store baking pans, roasting pans, kitchen linens, seldom used utensils, placemats, anything shallow. It can also be customized for pet food bowls. In the bathroom, it almost takes the place of the medicine cabinet. A scale would fit perfectly in one of these drawers. Extra towels and toiletries could be stored nicely.

The idea of tapping into wall studs for more storage is also ideal for small kitchens. It would be an awesome pantry.

So when it comes time to renovate the kitchen or bathroom, remember this extra storage idea.

A bit about me :

Do what you love, love what you do. This is the premise behind why I started Susan Corvo Redesign of Fairfield, Re-imagining Your World.

Design tips by Susan Corvo Redesign of Fairfield

I have a unique ability to help clients identify on an emotional level what they don’t like about their homes and what they wish they could have. I am able to help them articulate the problem and then translate the dissatisfaction into a concrete solution. Most of my Fairfield area clients are unhappy with aspects of their home but don’t know why or what to do about it. Considering hiring a Fairfield Interior Design company? A beautiful home does not have to be expensive. Call me for a free phone consultation: (203) 220-9137.

Serving Fairfield County, CT: Fairfield, Westport, Wilton, Stamford, New Canaan, Darien, Norwalk, Ridgefield, Shelton, Trumbull, and beyond.

Fairfield Interior Design Series: Step #1 in Preparing Your Home for Sale

lemaster@digitalproductsuite.com — Wed, 28 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Fairfield Interior Design Series: Step #1 in Preparing Your Home for Sale

Susan Corvo of Susan Corvo Redesign | Serving Fairfield County, CT

Welcome to our Fairfield Interior Design Blog Series! Today, we will talk about the #1 tip to prepare your Fairfield County, CT home for sale! It all starts with a touch of interior design and staging!

I believe that preparing a home for sale should happen at least 6 months before you call a realtor. If you contact your realtor after you’ve done this preparation you’ll most likely get a higher listing price.

Step one is clean, clean, and clean! Your home should sparkle on the inside and out. Scrub and polish every nook and cranny. Great news is there are so many wonderful Fairfield area cleaning servies available to give you some help. Just check Yelp here . Buyers in the Fairfield County region will then view a clean home as well cared for. This includes the basement, attic, and garage as well. Even your own furniture should be cleaned and items arranged nicely (i.e. China cabinet). Every drawer, cabinet and closet should be cleaned, organized and thinned out. Now is the time to get rid of old or unused items instead of packing them. If there are things you want to keep, pack them away to make the spaces look bigger. There should be no junk drawers! Potential buyers will open all the drawers and cabinets. You want them to imagine themselves living in such a clean and organized home. (They are probably coming from chaos and clutter). Think about the above tips, and give us a call if you are seeing professional advice from a Fairfield interior design company. We’ll be there for you!

Susan Corvo of Susan Corvo Redesign | Serving Fairfield County, CT

Moving on to windows, fixtures, bathrooms, etc: Windows and window sills should be thoroughly cleaned. If sills are wood, paint them. If they are not, scrub with Barkeepers friend. Screens should be cleaned and replaced if torn or rusty. Remember to clean your front door. Most people rarely use the front door and forget that the cobwebs and bugs have taken residence. A fresh coat of paint on the front door goes a long way, along with a new welcome mat.

There should be no moldy caulk in bathrooms. Recaulk if necessary. There should also be no soap scum in the shower. The tiles should sparkle. A new shower liner and simple white shower curtain is a must. Barkeepers friend works great to get rid of stains on porcelain sink, tub and toilet. Need a Fairfield area painting service? Why not check Angie’s List ?

Power Wash the house, walkways, patio or deck. If paint is peeling, fix it. No one wants to see mold on a house or walkway. Clean the outside lights and replace dead bulbs. Invisible glass works great on the glass. If your mailbox is dented, rusted or dirty, you can clean and paint or replace. The post should be freshly painted also.

The garage should show as a garage, not a storage or junk area. Organize it so cars can be parked and clean out the bugs and leaves. I would even go so far as painting the walls and ceiling if it looks really haggard. At least hose down the floor.

As you work your way through each room, think about what you could start packing such as seasonal clothes or sports equipment. Remember, the more you do now, the faster you will sell and the easier the move.

On the hunt for a Fairfield interior design company? Why not consider redesign instead? Our goal is to help our clients sell homes faster via staging, interior design, interior redesign services.

If you are looking to hire a Fairfield interior design company, consider Susan Corvo Redesign instead!

A beautiful home does not have to be expensive. Call me for a free phone consultation: (203) 220-9137.

Serving Fairfield County, CT: Fairfield, Westport, Wilton, Stamford, New Canaan, Darien, Norwalk, Ridgefield, Shelton, Trumbull, and beyond.

Stay tuned for Step 2.

Resolution Dream Home

EVERYTHING BATHROOMS: April Showers….and Tiles, Toilets and Tubs

🌷SPRING SHAPE UP🌷 A Post-Winter Bootcamp Checklist for Your Home

ONE FOR THE AGES: Future Forward Thinking in Your Home Design

EYES ON YOUR FUTURE: Leveraging a Designer’s Expertise to Optimize Your Retirement Lifestyle

BRINGING 2025 TO A CLOSE IN STYLE: Celebrating with Flair

1. Real (or Real-Looking) Greenery with Lights

2. Colored Wine Glasses and Glass Mugs

BRINGING THE OUTDOORS IN: Living Beautifully with Plant Décor

Safety First: Choosing the Right Plants for Homes with Pets and Young Children

SMOOTH SALE-ING:The Benefits of Keeping Your Home Ready for Buyers

The Immediate Benefits: Clarity and Freshness

The Medium-Term View: Smarter Upgrades and Evolving Spaces

The Long Game: Protecting and Growing Your Home’s Value

Bonus Benefits: Peace of Mind and Pride of Place

Design as an Ongoing Conversation

REIMAGINE THE REMODEL: Taking Kitchens to the Next Level

LIVE LIKE A (BAREFOOT) CONTESSA: Display What You Use and Love…and More

DESIGNER, SHARE THY STUFF: What I Love in My New Home

TO DREAM THE POSSIBLE DREAM: Why It’s Always the Right Time for Design

I’M FLOORED!!! A Guide to Options for What Lies Beneath

APRIL SHOWERS: Ideas for a Fresh Bathroom Upgrade

SURVIVOR | RENO Getting through a Remodel with Your Sanity Intact

1. Plan, Plan, and Then Plan Some More

2. Spring Cleaning and Decluttering, Whatever the Actual Season

3. Create a Temporary Living Plan

4. Communicate Clearly and Regularly

5. Expect the Unexpected

6. Take Sanity Breaks

7. Keep Your Eye on the Prize and Celebrate Milestones

Collab = Fab: Experts Working Together Create Your Best Kitchens and Baths

Finding the Perfect Home (Hint: It’s your Own!).

Oh, My Garland: Gussying Up Holiday Spaces

Birds of a Feather: Avoiding Design Turkeys

It’s the Little Extras that Make a Big Impact

A Moving End to Summer!

Making Your Bed…And (Happily) Lying in It!

COOL SUMMER! Some of My Favorite Stuff for Your Spaces

(Fill in the Blank) is the New Gray: Bringing Color to Your New Spaces

Thinking Outside the Dining Room: Making Your Home Your Own

Love Your Home At All Stages of Parenthood

Feathering Your Empty Nest: DESIGNING FOR THE NEXT PHASE

Taking the First Step Toward a New Interior

New Year, New Surroundings

Deck the Halls: Festive Home Décor Ideas

Flexible Design Evolves with the Times, Your Tastes and Your Lifestyle

Pace of Renovation – Stages and Potential Pitfalls

IN LIVING(ROOM) COLOR

Finding Your Perfect Shade for Spaces That Will Make You Happy

FROM START TO “FINISH”

Selecting the Total Look Without Any Regrets

IT TAKES TWO TO TANGO

Partnering with Your Interior Designer to Find Your Style

WEARER OF MANY HATS

Interior Designer as Project Manager Plus

COUNTDOWN TO DEMOLITION DAY

YOU SHOULD BE LOVING IT!

Now is the Time to Stay Put and Invest in Your Current Space

TIMING IS EVERYTHING

Understanding the Ebb and Flow of Design Project Timelines

Renovation Communication

Resolution Dream Home

Getting Your Home Holiday-Ready: Let Your Style Shine Through

Start Next Spring’s Kitchen Makeover, Now!

Start Next Spring’s Kitchen Makeover, Now!

Make Your Budget and your Home Happiness Go Farther: Hire an Interior Designer

Make Your Budget and Your Home Happiness Go Farther: Hire an Interior Designer

Expand Your Space

Add Space and Style Without Breaking the Bank

Finding (re)Purpose

Finding (re)Purpose

The Great Outdoors!

Designing Your Patio or Deck for Optimal Enjoyment

Bring in the Spring!

Bring in the Spring!

Undertaking A Kitchen Renovation

Undertaking A Kitchen Renovation

Susan’s Favorite Things

February 2022 Susan’s Favorite Things

Susan’s Favorite Things

February 2022
Susan’s Favorite Things

January 2022
Susan’s Favorite Things