Redesign: The Best Budget-Friendly Option for Home Design
10 Ways to Beat the Winter Doldrums in your Home
2021 Fall Design Trends from high point
Brilliant Ideas for Creative Work Spaces in Your Home
Working from home and distance learning has slowly transformed to a more permanent situation for families across the country. Can you believe it’s been almost a year since our temporary anecdote of self-quarantine began? (GASP!) As time has gone on, so has life. Homebuyers today are showing tremendous grace to the makeshift dining room offices and the random desks in the living room. However, what if you could enhance your home by transforming under-utilized spaces into functional work spaces? Not only could you move your office out of your dining room, but you could wow homebuyers AND show off the functionality of your home. We have rounded up some brilliant ideas for creative work spaces in any home that are inexpensive and can be completed in a weekend.
The “Cloffice”
First off – The “Cloffice”. This is the 2021 trendy term for an office in a closet. Closets make great work spaces. They already have plenty of storage solutions available and they allow you to close the door to work when 5 o’clock hits (which is a must for mental health). There’s two ways a “cloffice” can be achieved. First off, if you have a large walk-in you can simply add a desk like this:
If you don’t have that large walk-in (which let’s face it - many of us don’t), you may have a closet in a guest room or a basement that you could completely transform into your new “cloffice”.
Photo by: Nesting With Grace
Under the Stairs
If you have stairs in your home, there’s probably a large likelihood you have some dead space underneath that could be utilized. This makes a great nook to create your home office area. Just a simple trip to the home improvement store is all it takes to transform this space into a functional work space.
Photo by: Adore Magazine
Where There’s a Wall There’s a Way
If you’ve got an empty wall in your home, you can create a functional work space. Whether it’s a big space or a little space we’ve got you covered.
Floating shelves are a great way to utilize a small space. You can easily create one with a board and shelf brackets.
Photo by: DIYHairpinLegs.com
If you have a larger wall space, this option is both temporary and inexpensive for creating multiple work spaces in one place. AND you can take it all with you when you sale your home. It’s a win-win!
Photo by: Jones Design Company
This “Murphy Desk” is a great solution to a tight space. It simply can be closed up when not in use. The functionality and the inexpensive price tag makes this a winner in our books.
Photo by World Market.com. Similar product - here
Dining Room Solutions
If you simply do not have anywhere else to go in your home, there are ways to make your dining room functional for an office space while still keeping it true to its original purpose. These ideas will help minimize the office clutter and allow you to still have that family meal on occasion.
If you have a china cabinet/hutch in your dining room, this is a functional option to store office supplies and files out of sight. This may mean packing up Grandma’s china for this temporary solution BUT Grandma will be proud of you for reimagining the space for these unprecedented times.
Photo by: iheartorganizing
Don’t have a hutch? Consider using rolling carts or file boxes and create a rolling office. When at work you have your supplies and when 5 o’clock comes you simply roll your office under the table. Out of sight out of mind.
If you have an old hope chest/toy box, you can create an office in a box. Martha Stewart has a great tutorial on how to convert this empty chest into functional office storage. AND it can double as a cute bench when you’re off the clock.
Photo by: Martha Stewart.com
Get creative, start re-evaluating the spaces in your home to become more productive both in school and work. And when it’s time to put your house on the market, you will have creative, intentional spaces to show off to buyers. If you need some assistance, we are here to help! Feel free to contact us for a redesign consultation. We also provide online consultations if you live out of the area or feel more comfortable with the virtual format. We would love to help you re-imagine your work/home life spaces!
*Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links which means Staged by Design® may earn commission if you use links provided
Can't Touch This
A recent article by Houzz.com, 36 Home Design Trends Ready for Takeoff in 2021, gave us a look at many expected design trends in home design. This article provided some really great insight as to what builders are incorporating in new homes as well as what designers are incorporating in remodels of homes. One design trend mentioned was the increase in the installation of touchless or motion sensor faucets in both kitchen and bath design. One thing 2020 has taught us is how to prevent the spreading of germs. We looked at this trend and took it a step further as to the amount of home devices that are being utilized today that are touch free.
These are a few items we rounded up for our Can't Touch This Home of 2021.
Moen Motion Sensor Kitchen Faucet: https://amzn.to/3pNnsAW
Motion Sensor Bathroom Sink Faucet: https://amzn.to/3oyao2h
Motion Sensor Soap Dispenser: https://amzn.to/399h8gi
Motion Sensor Trash Can: https://amzn.to/2JQkE6N
Amazon Echo Show: https://amzn.to/3pSdw9e
Wifi Smart Plug: https://amzn.to/3bgnfSK
Can't Touch This sign: https://www.etsy.com/listing/894947663/cant-touch-this...
Motion Sensor Light Switches: https://amzn.to/3pXN4LE
Nest Thermometer: https://amzn.to/3bgjOM2
LED Motion Sensor Light Strip (not pictured): https://amzn.to/2LoJbQH
This article highlighted some really great expected design trends for 2021. What do you hope to see in home design this year? If you are looking to refresh your space but don’t know where to start, give us a call or go online to set up a consultation. We’d love to help you!
*Disclaimer: This page contains Amazon affiliate links which means Staged by Design® may earn commission if you use links provided
2020 - A Year to Remember
Let’s face it, 2020 was not the year we all hoped it would be. It brought many unpredictable situations for us all and caused us to rethink how we do business. HOWEVER it also gave us the time to look at our company and improve our look, our vision, our services and our processes. In the end, 2020 turned out to be a busy year for us in which our confidence grew despite the many obstacles. And as a team we really had fun along the way!
It's been a privilege to partner with our clients and help them sell their homes faster and for top dollar. The numbers don't lie - home staging is definitely an investment that gives a return! Here’s some of our stats for the year:
The average number of days on the market for our homes was 12 days!
90 homes staged
320 home and virtual consultations
22 redesigns
National Award - HSRA’s Top 10 Home Staging Company
Local Awards - Best Home Staging company of Loudoun 2020 and LoudounNow’s Best Interior Designer 2020
and if that wasn’t enough - take a look at our year in video:
Let us shine a spotlight on your home in 2021! Give us a call or go online to set up a consultation. It's worth the investment!
2021 Color of the Year Room Designs
What a year 2020 has been! It will forever be in the history books as that unprecedented year in which a coronavirus pandemic, Presidential election, unusually active hurricane season and so many more strange happenings have taken place. Paint companies and color experts know all these occurrences play an important role in design. Every year a different shade of color is forecasted that predicts the year ahead in design. The color is then incorporated into many facets of life such as fashion, lifestyle, technology, pop culture, architecture to name a few. We decided to give you our take on these color choices with a shoppable design board for each. And even better news – you purchase the items in our designs by using the link provided!
*Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links which means Staged by Design® may earn commission if you use links provided. Please note items may not currently be in stock through vendors associated in this blog.
Benjamin Moore - Aegean Teal
Aegean Teal 2136-40
Benjamin Moore selected a soft, soothing blue-green for its 2021 color of the year. Aegean Teal 2136-40 creates natural harmony with its balanced and soothing hue. This warmth of this shade signifies ones wellbeing. It makes your home feel even more like home.
We took this paint color and its coordinating 2021 color palette to new heights with this transitional style dining space. We added texture through the sideboard and chairs while giving a sense of sophistication with the light fixture.
Sherwin Williams - Urbane Bronze
Sherwin Williams chose Urbane Bronze for their 2021 color of the year. This color signifies the warmth and simplicity of nature. This year more than ever we are feeling the need to bring that tranquility inside our homes. Urbane Bronze provides the perfect backdrop for warmth with its deep rooted hue but also works to tone down a space through accent features such as trim and doors.
We created a warm and cozy family room using elements of Urbane Bronze. This family room brings a feeling of relaxation and serenity through its warm roots. The leather chairs and the unique dark wood coffee table ground the room with organic appeal.
Pantone Illuminating & Ultimate Gray
Just recently Pantone released its 2021 color of the year. This year they chose two colors to represent the new year - lluminating and Ultimate Gray. These two independent colors come together to provide an optimistic outlook. Such a wonderful representation of what this past year has forced us to do - to work together to prevent the spread of Covid-19 and help those in need due to the pandemic while providing a sense of hope for things to come!
We chose to represent Pantone’s colors with a vibrant contemporary home office space. This space explodes with energy from the touches of Illuminating in the fun desk chair while the warmth from Ultimate Gray calms the space. It’s a happy space to excite you and give you an optimistic work day from home.
We hope 2021 will bring a sense of tranquility to all your homes no matter what color palette you bring into your space. If you want to update your space but need direction, we would be happy to assist you. Book your redesign consultation online and our staff will create the tranquil look you are looking for in 2021.
Let us shine a spotlight on your home!
8 Design Styles with AmazIng Holiday Inspiration
Christmas 2020 is around the corner. Many are decorating earlier this year due of COVID-19, in hopes of bringing some much needed joy to their homes. We've curated holiday inspiration below from Sherwin Williams ColorSnap 8 Color ID Palettes. These decorating ideas are sure to get you in the holiday spirit! Let's get into the festive mindset and find your holiday style, shall we?
Naturalist
No doubt 2020 has raised our awareness of the the beauty the outdoors brings to our lives. We have been forced outdoors more for our sanity, but hopefully you have gained a heightened appreciation for all things in nature. The organic elements found in nature are pleasing to the eye and can easily be included in your design plan. This holiday, you may want to consider rustic ornaments and bring the outdoors in through your greenery.
Image by: Place of my Taste
Naturalist style isn’t your ordinary red and green for Christmas. It brings in a multitude of colors directly pulled from the natural world. It’s all about bringing the outdoors in, and would be best expressed with real pine boughs, magnolia leaves and pine cones for added texture.
Creative
Being creative means you see the positive possibilities that many simply can’t envision. With the challenges of COVID-19, many have had to be creative with not only solutions to social/work problems, but also with spaces around your home. Being creative brings the artist out in you and allows you to bring together unique things in a cohesive manner.
Image by: Apartment Therapy
Creative design means thinking outside of the box. We love using ordinary items and turning them into art. This example shows you how to decorate your tree using items from a grocery store! It’s not only creative but it’s beautiful with all its colors. The colors are a bit bolder than the previous mentioned Naturalist and add a bit of pop to the design.
Minimalist
COVID-19 has caused many of us to look around our homes and clean out the things we don't need and become a bit more organized. Minimizing the “stuff” in your home has brought a sense of peace to many during quarantine. Beautiful design doesn't have to be excessive and neither does holiday decor. Simple touches of Christmas cheer are enough to speak volumes in decorating for the holidays.
Image by: City on a Farmhouse
The soft neutral tones of the colors allow the minimalist to feel peaceful. This example of holiday decor still has that cozy feel but with less. The mantle only uses pillar candles and greenery. The stockings give that gentle nod to Christmas without creating a lot of clutter.
Trendsetter
Quarantine life has caused a lot more interaction with social media and television. Design trends are all over Instagram and HGTV. Many of you are trendsetters in your own way and influence your friends around you. Were you the one that bought that cute mask and then coerced all your friends into buying the same one? If so, you are a trendsetter by nature and you probably want holiday decor that is on trend for the year. (I'm looking at you flocked tree!) This design style is what drives the industry.
Image by: Inspired by Charm
This tree is full of bright pops of color instead of traditional red and green. The holiday colors and design of this style certainly aim to impress. This particular tree is fun, energetic and makes everyone want an ombre Christmas tree (am I right?).
Dreamer
COVID-19 and quarantine has allowed people time to pause and breathe, with many realizing their dreams, and planning a way to achieve them. Dreamers have a positive outlook on life and even a pandemic can't diminish that attribute. Holiday decor for this style remains calm, and its colors embrace cooler blues and neutrals for a multi-layered look.
Image by: CitrineLiving
The decorations on this tree by CintrineLiving really bring out the twinkle lights of the tree. The flowing pale gold ribbon with touches of light blues, greens and aqua create a sophisticated, soft elegance to this style. This tree makes me dream of dancing sugar plums.
Free Spirit
This year has caused many to have to take a detour in life that they simply weren't expecting. The free spirited person takes those detours and makes them exciting possibilities. They see the positive outcomes and run with it. They take lemons and make lemonade! So of course their holiday style will reflect their excitement.
Image by: Afloral.com
The holiday decorations on this tree exemplify the nature of a free spirited design. The use of golden sun palms in the decorations takes quite the detour from the traditional poinsettia. Yet it works with this style and with this tree!
Enthusiast
Many of you during quarantine found that it was a great opportunity and time to try all the things you've wanted to do but never had the time to do them. You learned how to knit, train your dog, sew facial masks, cook French food, and a myriad of other tasks. You have kept yourself busy trying to keep your mind off all things pandemic.
Image by: Foundry Interiors
Holiday design for the enthusiast uses earth tone colors to represent hard work. This beautiful collage of bottle brush trees from our friends at Foundry Interiors displays those colors while being simplistic in design. The multiple trees could represent the multiple new things you as an enthusiast have tried this year.
Nurturer
More than anything right now I think we can all relate to being a nurturer during this time of COVID-19. We have all had to cope with the disappointments life has thrown at us and our family this year. We've also spent A LOT more time at home this year and thus we want to make our house feel like home. And that is the definition of a true nurturer. This holiday style will be neutral and cozy.
Image by: Drive by Decor
The colors and texture of the holiday decor in this example create that cozy environment that a nurturer wants to provide in his/her home. A soft color palette with added darker neutrals provides the warmth of the holiday season. This look will make you want to curl up on the sofa and watch Hallmark Christmas movies.
Design in decorating truly represents one’s personality. This holiday season embrace YOUR design style. Allow your personality to come out in your holiday interpretations. If you’re not sure which style best fits you, Sherwin Williams even has a short quiz you can take to discover what your style really IS.
If the thought of decorating or choosing paint color overwhelms you, go online and book a redesign or color consultation service with us . We would love to help you shine a spotlight on your home and bring your personality into your space!
Back to School 2020 Style
After what seems like forever, kids are finally back to school. However 2020, in true fashion, has most of the country handling school just a wee bit differently. Most school districts, for the first semester, have chosen a full distance learning model or a hybrid style of half in class/half distance learning. Needless to say, both of these formats have caused families to scramble to provide productive learning environments for their children as well as themselves for work.
Thanks to COVID-19, we are all re-evaluating the spaces in our homes. Even the tiniest spaces can be transformed to a great work environment, however it’s imperative to create separation between your work spaces and your home life. When staging, the need for creating beautiful work spaces has increased the need for desks in our inventory. We are incorporating these spaces in odd nooks or areas that would normally go unused. Advice to our our clients includes re-imagining the spaces in your home, which may mean relocating furniture and boxing up items temporarily.
Dining Rooms are a central hub of the home that typically aren’t used much except for that special holiday meal. Many people are choosing to work in their dining rooms during this time, but many are tired of seeing the clutter that comes along with this type of setup. Here are a few of our suggestions:
Use your existing hutch or china cabinet for storage. Pack up grandma’s china temporarily and simply add boxes/baskets and use that storage for office supplies, files, etc.
Photos by: Centsible Chateau & iheartorganizing
Buy file boxes/storage carts on wheels. At the end of the day, all you do is simply roll it under the table and it’s out of sight out of mind. Here’s a couple we found that will work perfect under the table
Create a Martha Stewart office in a box using an old hope/toy chest. It can also be a cute little bench when it’s closed up
Photo by Martha Stewart.com
In addition to dining rooms, there are plenty of nooks and spaces in a home for a small work environment. If you are tight on space, this “murphy desk” from World Market is the perfect solution. It can be placed anywhere there is enough room for a chair. When in use it’s functional, and when you’re done you fold back up and never have to think about work/school until you put it back down.
AND finally just because we are working from home doesn’t mean we can’t make it pretty. Take a look at this closet office we fell in love with from Nesting with Grace.
Closets make GREAT office spaces because you can simply close the door on them when 5 o’clock arrives. This example of a closet remodel recreated the space to be one that the homeowner could feel productive in because it fit her style. Don’t be afraid to make inexpensive changes to a space if it will make you happy. The changes made to this closet were not expensive AND it can easily be turned right back into a closet when/if needed. The wallpaper is peel and stick which is a PERFECT non-permanent way to decorate a space. Create a space that makes you happy and productive.
Get creative, start re-evaluating the spaces in your home to become more productive both in school and work. If you need some assistance, we are here to help! Feel free to contact us for a redesign consultation. We also provide online consultations if you live out of the area or feel more comfortable with the virtual format. We would love to help you re-imagine your work/home life spaces!
*Disclaimer: This page contains Amazon affiliate links which means Staged by Design® may earn commission if you use links provided
10 Grandmillennial Amazon Finds That Don't Scream Grandma
Grandmillenial. Granny–chic. Whatever you call it, it’s a whole new style emerging on the scene. One that may take you back to your childhood if you are a child of the 80’s. But ironically it’s the millennial crowd jumping on board to Grandma’s style of cozy comfort.
On a recent trip to Grandma’s house, I was taken back to my childhood when I noticed many things had not changed or been updated. One look at my grandmother’s china, proudly displayed in the china cabinet, caused me to reflect on the current design trends sweeping our country. Like it or not – it’s the latest and greatest décor trend you will see in every decorating magazine and trending Instagram accounts.
Do you remember the Laura Ashley floral comforters or the Jessica McClintock dresses? Yep, had one of each. Or maybe you can recall the infamous wicker peacock chairs? Just pull out a school dance or graduation picture from the 80’s and you’ll probably see it. And let’s also not forget the ginger jars or other chinoiserie piece that you probably broke as a kid at some point. All of these make up the components in this latest craze of granny chic.
Being in the staging business we can’t really fall head over heels into one style, but we can incorporate pieces from different styles. This style is VERY taste specific so you won’t see it in a lot of home staging projects but there’s always room to mingle accessories into transitional styles.
And like most of you, maybe you don’t want to commit to this style, but it might be fun to use subtle pieces around the house to remind you of where you came from. We went to Amazon to find some great pieces to incorporate in any style you may have in your home. Each gives just a nod to this decor trend but none of them scream grandma.
Which ones give you fond memories?
Wood Bead Chandelier
2. Chinoiserie Spheres3. Cheeky Cross Stitch Pillow
4. Gold Leaf Mirror
5. Ruffled Pillow Shams
6. Rattan Chair
7. Floral Duvet Cover
8. Floral Wall Art
9a. Banana Leaf Hamper Basket
9b. Banana Leaf Storage Basket
10. Chinoiserie Table Lamp
Whether “granny chic” is your style or not, we can help with your personal style in any redesign project. Book online today and let us shine a spotlight on your home!
*Disclaimer: This page contains Amazon affiliate links which means Staged by Design® may earn commission if you use links provided
The Resurgence of Art Deco
Let’s hear it for the roaring 20’s. 2020 that is. There is a resurgence of the Art Deco design and it’s roaring back in interior design with fresh, organic materials. Art Deco is all about making a big statement. From its bold patterns and shapely furniture to its luxurious fabrics and glamorous feel, Art Deco makes an impression. It’s only appropriate 2020 would trend toward this style with the way it roared in with a global pandemic. Everything good comes back around and so it is true with Art Deco.
Art Deco style first came onto the scene in the 1920s and lasted well into the 1940s. It’s characterized by it’s extensive use of symmetry and geometry in its design (and who said you would never use geometry in real life?!). It is full of exuberant geometric shapes, pops of bold colors, shapely furniture, luxurious fabrics and glamorous lighting. You don’t have to go full on Great Gatsby to incorporate Art Deco into your living room. There are tons of great decor pieces that follow the trend but can be combined with other styles. Take a look at some our our Art Deco inspired pieces of inventory we use to stage homes with a transitional feel.
Our recent Spotlight on Style focused on the comeback trend of Art Deco. We thought it would be fun to find some great Art Deco inspired home decor on Amazon. The beauty is most of our finds are pieces that can easily be incorporated into any style you may currently have in your home.
1. Rattan Light Pendant
This light makes a statement with it’s sophisticated curves and also brings in a soft element of organic material.
2. MIRROR
This mirror would be great above a foyer console or a dining room buffet. It’s play on the square shape while adding curves makes this piece pleasing to the eye.
3. VASES
This pair of vases make a great centerpiece and have the iconic detail of art deco.
4. LUMBAR PILLOW
This black pillow with gold accent is small in scale, but large in details.
5. ART DECO SIGN
This fun whimsical sign comes in a variety of choices. It screams Art Deco and the 20s!
6. GEOMETRIC SPHERE
This is a versatile decor piece that can be used on end tables, bookshelves and more. It is a great piece to use with other decor such as books and frames to add dimension.
7. FLOOR LAMP
This floor lamp is SO fabulous. It’s industrial aspect of Art Deco brings a fun element of surprise to a room.
8. BAR CART
Bar carts are back, and what better style to have than this! It was a statement piece then and it will be now.
9. TRAY
The curves on this multi functional tray are reminiscent of so much of the Art Deco style. This tray can be used as a coffee table centerpiece or on a kitchen island.
10. DESK LAMP
This small lamp creates a fun vibe to any desk.
11. ACCENT PILLOW
Fun geometric design on this pillow can be used along with many other patterns or bold colors. This pillow is currently unavailable in this pattern but here’s another option we love.
12. OTTOMAN
The fur on this ottoman is fun and glamorous. Just a small touch of luxury to add to a room or vanity area.
13. ART
This trio of art is a great way to incorporate a natural element to a room. The organic nature of it brings in life and simple lines to the room.
14. SOFA
The curves and the emerald green color are exactly what Art Deco re- imagined looks like for 2020!!
15. SIDE TABLE
This abstract design of this side table brings in those geometry elements and make this an piece with interest while the wood brings in those natural, organic elements
16. CHAIR
Art Deco style had high contrast of black with gold to represent wealth and industry and luxurious velvet fabric was used often. This chair would be a great addition to any room.
If you would like to add a little Art Deco to your life but aren’t sure how, we would be happy to help. Book a redesign consultation with us online and let’s see how we can add some geometry to your life and design!
*Disclaimer: This page contains Amazon affiliate links which means Staged by Design® may earn commission if you use links provided
Fresh New Look, Same Great Service
We have been in the process for quite some time now perfecting a new fresh look. Introducing our new logo and website! This is a fresh new look but we are the same great service you have known and loved for the past 13 years. March 13th marked our 13th year in business so we thought what better way to celebrate turning a teenager than with a complete make over. (We are in the design business you know.)
Our new website gives you the ability to not only request a quick quote and book a consultation appointment, but it also allows you to view our beautiful portfolio of homes. This portfolio allows you to see our completed projects as well as give you inspiration for new ideas.
Home staging has become more of an expectation through the years and the standards are higher than they used to be. It has become more of a designer look than rented furniture to fill the space. We have consistently changed with the times and remain vigilant in keeping our inventory on trend – giving our clients a sophisticated, designed look.
So even though our look has changed a little bit, we are still the same great service you rely on when it comes time to sell your home. We are always here to HELP. If you are looking to sell soon, please feel free to book a consultation appointment online. We are mostly virtual right now due to COVID-19 quarantine but we hope to be back in homes soon. Also, if you are looking to freshen up your own space, we are here to help with our redesign services. Check out all our services here on our website.
Let us help you SHINE the spotlight on your home!
The Mother of All Quarantine Holidays
Mother's Day is right around the corner! Friday is May 1st. The Mother of all quarantine holidays is quickly approaching! Mother's day is the 10th (just in case you don't know what time, day or month it is right now....we get it). But don't worry, our staff has rounded up some great Amazon gift ideas for mom.
We can't count on those precious homemade gifts this year for Grammy since kids aren't in school. And social distancing, as well as a short time frame, have limited our resources. So, our staff picked out some great Amazon gift ideas for mom you can ship directly and act as if you had a plan all along. These gifts are sure to please the mom you haven't seen in a few months due to COVID-19, or the mom who is working from home and juggling online school with her kids. AND if you're a mom reading this, there's no harm in forwarding this on to special members of your family to "suggest" a nice gift idea. Let's be honest - sometimes they need a little push in the right direction. Am I right?!?
If you missed our blog earlier in the year on Top Picks for Design Books, these make GREAT gifts for some design/decorating inspiration. We are all getting rather bored with our homes at this point and wanting to freshen up our spaces. Go check it out!
Now for our Staff picks:
Leigh - Half Baked Harvest Super Simple by Tieghan Gerard
This is great for those who are home cooks that are pressed for time or just starting out. It's a go-to for hassle-free meals that never sacrifice taste.
Wendy - Harney & Sons Tea Sampler + Cute tea mug
Tea lovers will enjoy the variety in this sampler pack and who wouldn't cherish a mug that reminds them of the greatest song ever by Whitney!
Lauren - Best Mom Ever Wine gift set
What mom doesn't need this during quarintine? Enough said.
Kim - Hand lettering workbook by Amy Latta + Tombow dual tip pens
We could all use a little distraction in our days - why not learn a new hobby? Create beautiful art with easy step by step instructions.
Tracy - Biking outfit
Since the gyms are closed, try something new. Biking the trails is fun and why not look cute while you do it?!
If mom is a "hard to buy for lady" - try to support a small business with a gift card. We offer online redesign consultations. You can book online at https://sbd.appointlet.com/ - distance is not a problem! Find a way to honor mom - THIS year she deserves the attention since we can't be together! We hope you all have a safe, relaxing Mother's Day 2020.
*Disclaimer: This page contains Amazon affiliate links which means Staged by Design® may earn commission if you use links provided
Zoom Room Makeover
Zoom meetings have replaced the usual company/client meetings these days thanks to COVID-19. And society as we know it may just continue using this wonderful new way to communicate. However, if you are like me, do you find yourself inspecting your meeting attendee's room backdrops? Asking myself are they real or a green screen type backdrop? Deciding what they should do in order to freshen up their room. All those designer thoughts. Well, maybe now is the time to think about that zoom room makeover to give you a polished look in your meetings. We all know first impressions mean a lot! Zoom meetings are going to stick around well past COVID-19 so we might as well freshen up our work space in order to give that good first impression.
If you read our last post (and if not click here), you know we gave you some fun new office accessories to brighten up your office space. This time we went a little further and created a whole room for your zoom backdrop! The beauty of this zoom room makeover we have curated is it's all click and ship with Amazon! So in 2-5 days you could have a total makeover and woo your co-workers or clients with your hip new office space. AND have absolute social distancing while purchasing.
Paint color selected for this room was Benjamin Moore Gray Owl with an accent color of Sherwin Williams Iron Ore.
This zoom backdrop gives you a polished, subtle look so people can focus on you and your ideas and not your space. If you would like a more tailored look for your zoom space, give us a call at 703-552-4545 or book a virtual interior redesign consult online. We would love to shine a spotlight on your home office!
*Disclaimer: This page contains Amazon affiliate links which means Staged by Design® may earn commission if you use links provided
Home Office Mini-Makeovers
Since the COVID-19 quarantine began, most of us have been in our home office more so than ever before. And most of us could use a little pick-me-up to freshen up the space. We've created some home office mini-makeovers for you to 'treat yo'self' and bring a little sunshine to your quarantined work space.
No matter your style, there's so many fun, whimsical office products out there to incorporate in your space. Here's a couple styles we have curated for your online shopping retail therapy.
This modern style is all the rage. Mixing matte black with brushed gold and/or copper is so on trend.
Joanna Gaines would be super happy with our picks for a farmhouse style home office. We hope you are too.
We are confident these fun mini-makeovers can freshen up that home office space and spark your creativity while you work from home. If you want a more tailored design, feel free to give us a call at 703-552-4545 or book online for a virtual redesign consultation. We would be delighted to shine a spotlight on your home office!
*Disclaimer: This page contains Amazon affiliate links which means Staged by Design® may earn commission if you use links provided
Introducing a new service: Online Consultations
INTRODUCING......online virtual consultations! The effects of the coronavirus epidemic have affected all of us. As we all practice social distancing, we here at Staged by Design® will continue to offer our services utilizing online virtual consultations. We know some our clients still have a need to sell homes regardless of what's going on in the world. Here's owner, Leigh Newport, with more on this new service:
https://youtu.be/CyvQadvibO8
If you would like to learn more about our consultation process, please refer to our blog post on Home Consultations: Friend or Foe.We do our best to provide recommendations that will increase your return on investment and we have a proven track record to prove it.
To setup your online virtual consultation, visit our website and schedule today. We would love to partner with you and shine a spotlight on your home!
#MustRead - Our Favorite Top 10 Design Books
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Despite current cold temperatures, it seems that spring is just around the corner, even though it's not yet February. Perhaps it's the many home owners we work with that are eagerly preparing their homes for the Spring Real Estate Market, or just the winter doldrums, but we at Staged by Design® use the cold months to curl up with a great design book. From the striking photos to the practical tips, curling up with an amazing design book is the best way to stave off decor complacency. You can easily work through a chapter in a short period of time, or simply flip through the photos for endless inspiration.
We have curated 10 design and lifestyle books that run the gamut for style and scope. Don't be afraid to take risks with your designs, or your inspiration. Push the boundaries to find the comfort zone you never know existed!
1. Down to Earth: Laid Back Interiors for Modern Living
Local gal and host of HGTV's "Best House on the Block", this is Lauren Liess second publication, and it doesn't disappoint.
2. Whiskey in a Teacup
Who doesn't love Reese Witherspoon? Lovers of Southern style will enjoy her take on entertaining, design and lifestyle.
3. This is Home: The Art of Simple Living
Author Natalie Walton gives us this photo heavy insight into finding the essence of what makes you happy at home, and expresses it with examples of homes across the globe.
Elements of Style: Designing a Home and a Life
4. Elements of Style: Designing a Home & a Life
If you follow the blog, "Elements of Style", by Erin Gates, this book is a classic, and a must have. Erin's shares her approachable, real world experiences as an interior designer as well as in her own home. Her relatable style rings true.
5. Homebody: A Guide to Creating Spaces You Never Want to Leave
Shiplap, anyone? Joanna Gaines latest offering. The only downside? Not enough Chip.
6. Styled: Secrets for Arranging Rooms, from Tabletops to Bookshelves
This New York Times Bestseller is the ultimate guide to thinking like a stylist.
7. Think New Modern: Interiors by Swimberghe & Verlinde
Tired of farmhouse, industrial and overly cute ANYTHING? This visually stunning option is European style meets modern aesthetic. What's not to love?
8. The Kinfolk Home: Interiors for Slow Living
Haven't heard of the shelter magazine, Kinfolk? Think Instagram in a magazine, with glossy, simple, striking photos, oozing with style in page after page. Their latest book embodies the slow life aesthetic beautifully.
9. Cozy Minimalist Home
Popular blogger, Myquillyn Smith (a.k.a The Nester), did it again with her second design book. Her first book, The Nesting Place, embraced the idea that it didn't have to be perfect to be beautiful. (thank goodness!) Now with Cozy Minimalist Home she helps create a mindset that allows you to achieve the style you love with less stuff.
10. Inspire Your Home: Easy Affordable Ideas to Make Every Room Glamorous
Who wants a house that looks like a million dollars but doesn't want to spend a million dollars? Instagram star, Farrah Merhi, guides the reader through every room of the home with tips and advice on how to achieve the look you want without spending a fortune.
What are your favorite, well-loved design books you cherish? Please let us know. We'd love to hear from you. For more inspiration, visit our website for a gallery of all our projects! Or better yet - follow us on Facebook or Instagram!
High Point Fall 2019 Design Trends
Visiting any one of the annual Furniture Markets held across the country is the best way to stay on top of emerging design trends. We love High Point, not only for its proximity, but for the sheer volume and range of décor, accessories and furniture as one of the largest markets that are open to the Trade Only.
This year we saw the following new trends, as well as some oldies still holding strong:
Velvet
Velvet was present in all tones, both in furniture and pillows, although we loved the deep, saturated look of the emerald and moss greens. Velvet lends richness to any room with its subtle sheen and evokes a feeling of luxury. We like to use it in pillows and benches and may add a few velvet headboards in the coming months.
Rattan and Woven Furniture and Accessories
The look of “Boho Chic” in the last few years brought back macramé and wall hangings reminiscent of the 1970’s. The trend continues by incorporating woven texture with unique materials outside of standard rattan. We loved the benches, chairs and ottomans woven with leather, in irregular patterns, and believe it or not, papasan-type chairs.
We will be adding a few of these fun chairs to our inventory soon:
Channel Detail
The tufted look of everything from headboards, to chairs, sofas, ottomans and benches has given way to the channel detail, which is a bit less traditional, and more streamlined. It is still a transitional look overall but can be easily incorporated into a more contemporary space and in some applications, has a nod to Art Deco Influence. We used this lovely bench in a staging recently and it’s a perfect example of this new trend.
Boucle
Boucle is a nubbly textured fabric, most typically seen in fashion. It has merged as a cozy, yet sophisticated finish for chairs. Its Sherpa-like feel is another example of the strong presence of texture in today’s design trends.
Shagreen
Whether it is real or faux, Shagreen is one of our favorite finishes. This year, we saw it in everything from coffee tables to consoles. The color is typically gray to green/gray, with very little sheen. It is a subtle, but oh-so rich tactile material that pairs well with today’s neutrals and brushed metals. We have a pair of gray and silver Shagreen table lamps that we LOVE and use often. The look gives a nod to an animal print that has timeless application.
Texture and Detail
Texture was EVERYWHERE and on EVERYTHING! From rugs that combined shag elements with jute or sisal backgrounds, to small channeling on a dining table buffet to multi-dimensional mixed media art to the tactile finishes listed above. Texture is also one of the easiest ways to add interest to your home or listings. We particularly love to incorporate a mix of textures with black and white palettes, whether sophisticated, or farmhouse.
Home staging aldie
Home staging Leesburg
Click here to view the entire project
Did you know that we offer classes and workshops on Design Trends? Contact us if you'd like us to speak to your local Northern Virginia or real estate group! We'd love to share which of these trends we feel has staying power and how to incorporate this look into your home without spending a fortune.
For more fun pictures from High Point Market, follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Let us help you stay on top of trends with your home or listing. Contact us today to schedule a staging consultation or interior redesign appointment. We look forward to working with you!
70's Blast From the Past - The Brady's and Design
How many of you have been watching the HGTV seriesA Very Brady Renovation? With over 8.1 million viewers of the first episode, I would assume a lot of you! We all love a good reunion show and this one is a blast from the past and lures the attention of stagers and designers alike. For those of you who haven’t heard of this new offering from HGTV, the original cast of from The Brady Bunch reunited in honor of the 50th anniversary of their 70’s sitcom. The Brady kids, along with HGTV personalities, are renovating the interior of the house used for the iconic exterior shots of TV house. For those of you who may not know, the interior of the home was a studio set. The show focuses on the renovations that turn a ranch-style home into the identical two story interior of the set-no small feat, even for HGTV.
The excitement of this show got us thinking about the evolution of design. How much of the 70's is coming back to design today? We see a lot of design trends from the 70's design (now called mid-century) in 2019 in a much more modern, sophisticated way. Here are a few examples:
Color:
Shades of avocado green, orange, tans and browns along with some mustard yellow are popping into home decor. These are all warm palettes from 70's décor but they are showing up in a more sophisticated manner. And since we all painted our walls white recently due to the 2018 trend, these warm colors will coordinate nicely with our neutral backdrop.
Furniture:
Rattan and wicker are making a comeback in chairs and barstools thanks to the recent surge in the boho aesthetic that's gained popularity recently. You'll even see it on the walls. All of these create a natural look to any space.
Plants/Greenery:
Plants add a natural organic feel to a space. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, manufacturers have gotten so good at making fake plants look so real. Popular finds today from the 70's include Ferns with their featherlike stems, Sansevieria or Snake Plants (aka Mother-in-laws tongue) and palm fronds of all kinds.
Patterns and Textures:
Geometric patterns are showing up in a variety of ways fromlight fixtures, tile, artwork and wallpaper.
Accent walls have made a comeback but in a moresophisticated manner than just paint. Instead you will see use of bold patterned wallpaper or textures like moldingsor wood.
Texture is also showing up in velvet furnishings such ascouches, chairs and benches. The textureof a shaggy or wool pouf is also a great addition that nods toward 70s vibes.
Macramé has made a comeback adding texture into a room through plant hangers and wall art. It’s even being added to throw pillows and blankets. Crafting is cool again.
What are your thoughts on the 70's blast from the past with design today? We have to agree with Jan Brady when she once said “Isn’t it just absolutely lovely?”. The 70's vibe certainly has brought on some lovely design trends for 2019.
If you are looking to incorporate a 70's vibe to your own home, but don't know how to start, give us a call or fill out our online scheduling form We would be happy to help you add modern spin of 70's design through our redesign consultation