August 12, 2015

Mirror, mirror on the wall

August 12, 2015/ Jessica Nguyen

Large wall mirrors can make a bathroom feel bigger but they tend to be pretty boring. If you are like the many who have these ubiquitous mirrors and have been considering ripping them out, try layering a decorative mirror on top. It elevates the look without breaking up the expansive feel that the larger mirror provides. Plus, it saves you from needing sheet rock repair work.

The images below take it a step further by installing sconces on top of the wall mirror as well. Not only does it make it more interesting, but it reflects more light into the room.

July 31, 2015

Design Trend: Black and Gold

July 31, 2015/ Mallory

It's no secret we love black and gold--after a few seconds pursuing our website, and you'll see that. However, we aren't the only ones who have a strong love for this glam pair. They are both classics and look sophisticated together and standing alone. Here are a few finds that have caught my eye.

one // this ceramic bowl is perfect amount of added glam for styling a shelf, table or desk.

two // moroccan appetizer plates are sure to get your guests' attention.

three // hex matte brass knobs that are not your 90's brass hardware- yes, please.

four // these urchin figurines come in two sizes and are great for a pop of glam in any space.

five // black, white, gold and velvet. How much more luxe can you get?

six // a steal, this Nate Berkus frame looks far more expensive than its $13 price tag.

seven // i've seen this light used in an entry, a nursery, a laundry room...and it looks great in every single space.

eight // this rug is one item i've been drooling over for quite some time. it's an indoor/outdoor so it can handle high traffic and kiddos and the design is so striking.

nine // nothing can add sophistication to a space like some good lighting...especially when that lighting has a gold base and black shade. I can see it in an entry, living room, bedroom and office. Gorgeous.

July 03, 2015

The Power of White Walls

July 03, 2015/ Mallory

This weekend everyone will be all about red, white and blue--and rightfully so. But today, I'm going to focus on white--crisp, white walls that is.

When most people see a white wall, they immediately think it is unfinished and that it must be painted, even if said paint will be off-white. Stark white walls are often unheard of in the U.S., but I think we could all be missing out on something.

Here are just a few great things about white walls and reasons we should all give them a second look before picking up that paintbrush.

1. They work it out. White is a great color for workspaces. With a calm, unobstructed background, your creativity can take center stage with no distractions.

2. They let the textures talk. This living room, while lacking in color, is not lacking in interest and texture. The white walls bring the furniture and accessories to the forefront, allowing your eyes to focus on them first. White walls are not a necessity for mixing textures, but they will do a great job of highlighting the various finishes in a space.

The exposed beams in this kitchen would be lost if competing with a bolder wall color. Here, they make the room.

Image via Adore Home Magazine — Image via Adore Home Magazine

3. They help achieve balance. Let the colors do the talking. Unlike the living space above, this room is full of color. But thanks to the white walls and ceiling, the room isn't overwhelming. When using bold art and furnishings, balance the space with a light backdrop. These walls almost act like those in a gallery, letting the colors be the main feature.

4. They let you play. Nurseries and playrooms are some of my favorite spaces for doing white walls. Whether you want to achieve a calming, neutral space or you want to showcase the fun, bright things in child's world, white is perfect for both.

This nursery designed by Christine Dovey is still one of my all-time favorites.

5. It works for all. Whether your style is more modern, traditional or somewhere in between, white works for all spaces. If you thought white was just for sterile, contemporary spaces, hopefully we've proved you wrong!

A traditional white living area. — A traditional white living area.

White ship lap in a bathroom designed by Lauren Liess Interiors via DecorPad.

White meets modern in this contemporary living room. — White meets modern in this contemporary living room.

This California mid-century home embraces white.  Image via A Cup of Jo. — This California mid-century home embraces white. Image via A Cup of Jo.

January 14, 2015

Design Trend :: Indigo Hmong Textiles

January 14, 2015/ Jessica Nguyen

Indigo batik textiles seem to be showing up in many design publications these days. Of the indigo batiks, the vintage Hmongs are my favorite.

The Hmong are an Asian ethnic group living in the mountainous regions of Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and China. The beautiful Hmong textiles known as Paj ntaub or "flower cloth" are created using a traditional wax-resist method known as batik. Wax is applied in intricate patterns to a piece of cloth, typically made of hemp or cotton. The cloth is then soaked in natural indigo dyes. The wax acts as a resistant by preventing the dye from soaking through the cloth. After the fabric has been dyed and the wax removed, the beautiful design is revealed. Colorful embroidery is sometimes then added to the fabric.

The Paj ntaub traditionally were applied to skirts worn for funerals, courtship during New Year festivals, as well as baby-carriers, and men's collars.

Vintage Hmong fabrics, as well as ready-made pillows and other soft goods, can be found on Etsy and eBay. Several home décor retailers have caught on to the trend and now offer knock off versions.

I bought these pillow covers last year for my sunroom. Can't wait to finally get to use them!

So, what do you think of the trend? Love it or leave it?

If you have a space that is in need of improvement, drop us a line so we can discuss how our custom E-Design process can help you.

Blog