Category: Interior Design

Your bathroom is more than just a utilitarian space; it’s a sanctuary where you can unwind, refresh, and revitalize. To embark on the path of successful bathroom remodeling, you need a clear idea of what you want your bathroom to become. 

Turning your vision into reality demands expertise and precision, which is where the advantage of working with a design-build remodeling company like Everything Home shines. We seamlessly merge the creative aspects of design with the practicalities of construction, ensuring that your vision is not only brought to life but also optimized for functionality and efficiency. Join us on a journey where we explore the art of turning bathrooms into personalized sanctuaries. Discover how to banish those bathroom blues and step into an oasis of tranquility – a space meticulously designed to rejuvenate your body and soul.

Crafting Your Bathroom Vision

Crafting the vision for your ideal bathroom is the foundation of a successful remodeling project. Our journey begins with the initial planning stages, where we delve into your desires, needs, and aspirations. We explore the sources of your inspiration, whether they stem from interior design magazines, online platforms, or your own experiences in luxurious bathrooms. This collection of ideas evolves into our inspiration board, serving as our guide in making choices regarding colors, fixtures, and overall aesthetics.

Yet, the true essence of visualizing the perfect bathroom lies in the art of translating these concepts into a harmonious and functional design. We meticulously consider the layout, functionality, and style that best align with your unique lifestyle. Mood boards serve as a visual canvas, color palettes set the mood and atmosphere, and various design elements, from fixtures to tile patterns, add depth and personality to the vision. It’s in the process of refining the details, selecting materials, and establishing a budget that ensures your dream bathroom becomes not only visually appealing but also a practical and seamless part of your everyday life.

The Art of Bathroom Remodeling

Bathroom remodeling encompasses a spectrum of elements, each with its own unique demands and intricacies.

• Bathroom Design: A bathroom designer specializes in creating, planning, and visualizing functional and aesthetically pleasing bathroom spaces. They consider factors like layout, fixtures, materials, and lighting to optimize both utility and style.
• Plumbing: Expert plumbers understand the complex interplay of pipes and fixtures, ensuring that water flows seamlessly and without leaks. They also play a crucial role in reconfiguring plumbing to accommodate new layouts.
• Tiling: Tiles are not just coverings; they are the foundation of your bathroom’s personality. Our tile setters are artisans who ensure tiles are precisely cut, meticulously aligned, and securely bonded, creating a stunning visual and tactile impact.
• Electrical: From installing fixtures to ensuring outlets are safely placed, our electricians’ mastery of electrical systems contributes to both aesthetics and safety.
• Cabinetry and Carpentry: Custom cabinets and vanities are functional works of art. Our carpenters craft these pieces with precision, selecting the right wood, finishes, and hardware to create beautiful and functional storage solutions.

The importance of these experts cannot be overstated. Their collective skills and craftsmanship are the backbone of your bathroom’s transformation. It means executing every task with precision, care, and an unwavering commitment to quality. It’s about ensuring that every element, whether it’s plumbing, tiling, electrical work, or cabinetry, is not just finished but completed to perfection.

The Design-Build Advantage

At Everything Home, we pride ourselves on being a design-build remodeling company, a distinctive approach that streamlines the entire remodeling process. Our commitment to delivering excellence is reflected in this approach, which offers a host of benefits to our clients.

We seamlessly integrate design and construction, providing a single point of contact and fostering a spirit of collaboration between our talented designers and skilled craftsmen from project inception. Plus, our extensive network of reliable trades shares our dedication to superior craftsmanship and brings a wealth of expertise to every project.

The design-build method not only simplifies but also enhances efficiency. By collaborating closely, we identify potential challenges early, develop cost-effective solutions, and minimize unexpected delays and costly changes. In all this, our dedicated project management team plays a pivotal role in orchestrating seamless coordination between our design-build specialists. Under their vigilant oversight, we ensure that the end result is stunning and is built to endure the test of time.

Explore more benefits of working with a design-build studio to learn how the single-source responsibility of a unified design-build team ensures a smoother, more cost-effective, and stress-free remodeling experience.

Drab to Fab: Bathroom Transformations by Everything Home

Here are some examples of how the work of our integrated design-build team resulted in spa-like bathrooms that stand the test of time.

1. Serenity in Blue

In this stunning bathroom transformation, we added soft blue hues and warm wood cabinetry to evoke a tranquil, cozy embrace, creating the perfect haven to unwind and rejuvenate. White countertops add an air of luxury and elegance. In the shower, elegant blue tiles add a playful pop while remaining in harmony with the overarching theme. Dive into this transformation video and watch how we banished the bathroom blues to create this stunning blue sanctuary.

2. Tranquil Oasis: From Dull to Blissful

In this bathroom, we elevated the color palette from a dull and dated look to a crisp, bright white that exudes serenity and spa-like tranquility. We added beautiful hexagon-shaped floor tiles in a soothing shade of gray, creating a gentle yet striking contrast. To enhance the feeling of spaciousness in what was once a small bathroom, we made a strategic change by replacing the traditional shower curtain with a sleek, transparent glass partition. Elegant fixtures and a hint of greenery served as the finishing touches to this remarkable transformation.

3. Hygge-Inspired Scandinavian Bathroom Transformation

Inspired by the Danish concept of ‘hygge,’ our design-build remodeling team embarked on a transformation journey, making the primary bathroom the crown jewel of this Scandinavian home. We reimagined the original floor plan, crafting a true sanctuary. Dark, enveloping walls and teak-accented floors evoke luxury. The pièce de résistance? A walk-through dual shower, complete with drenching rain showerheads suspended from overhead teak beams. We also introduced a natural stone soaking tub to further elevate the luxurious appeal.

Your Spa-Like Bathroom Awaits

From crafting a clear and inspiring vision to superior craftsmanship and expert project management, every single detail is meticulously planned to transform the vision into a tangible reality. With years of experience in the industry, Everything Home brings a level of expertise that can elevate your project to new heights. If bathroom remodeling is on your mind, contact us today for a consultation, and we can help you turn your bathroom into a space where relaxation and beauty harmonize perfectly. Your dream bathroom awaits, and we’re ready to make it happen!

As an Indiana design-build remodeling studio, our team at Everything Home thrives on the excitement of bringing diverse styles to life. From the inviting allure of transitional spaces to the breezy elegance of coastal living, every design captures a harmonious fusion of aesthetics, comfort, and personal flair. Join us as we guide you through our living room designs that showcase our love for transforming houses into stylish, comfortable, and uniquely tailored homes.

Transitional Elegance: Balancing Blue and Wood Accents

Nestled within a charming Carmel home, our design experts skillfully blended blue and wood accents, creating a balanced transitional living room. Every detail, from the meticulously chosen fabrics to the thoughtfully curated tile selections and strategic shelving placement, contributes to a sense of cohesion and sophistication, showcasing a perfect blend of modern and classic elements.

Scandinavian Serenity: Embracing ‘Hygge’ in Modern Luxury

Experience the essence of Scandinavian design in this Westfield luxury home, where the Danish concept of ‘hygge’ finds its vibrant expression. Clean lines with soaring ceilings mark the setting, while generous walls of windows bathe the space in natural light, creating a serene backdrop. The centerpiece of the Scandinavian living room, a bold 2-story fireplace chase wrapped in large format marble tile, highlights the seamless blend of organic and contemporary influences, standing as a testament to the artistic union of nature-inspired elements with modern finesse.

Farmhouse Charm: Stone Clad Fireplaces and Statement Lighting

Step into the captivating farmhouse-style residence, where the rustic charm of stone-clad fireplaces, the whimsy of playful prints, and the allure of captivating lighting fixtures come together to infuse elegance and sophistication. This design pays homage to the timeless allure of rural living while adding a modern twist that balances comfort and style, making these spaces truly inviting havens of contemporary coziness.

Casual Comfort: Down-to-Earth Living Spaces

Discover the alluring charm of casual comfort in this inviting living room that celebrates the essence of down-to-earth aesthetics that effortlessly connect with the heart of the home. Meticulously chosen plush furnishings and cozy textures create an atmosphere that invokes relaxation, connection, and togetherness. A stone-clad fireplace adds a touch of charm, creating a warm and inviting ambience.

Coastal Retreat: Bringing the Ocean Breeze Indoors

This elegant living room is defined by a captivating coastal charm that captures the essence of serene seaside relaxation. Oversized windows, paired with the gentle touch of soft textures, create a welcoming atmosphere that seamlessly merges indoor and outdoor spaces. The modern fireplace is a focal point, inviting one to unwind and relax. Every design detail within this space is thoughtfully planned to evoke the tranquil sensation of an idyllic coastal getaway.

Euro-Inspired Luxe Living: Elegance and Ease Combined

Experience the allure of European elegance in this living room that seamlessly blends cool greys, warm browns, and a rich palette of materials, forming a captivating visual symphony. Each piece of furniture and decor has been thoughtfully curated to strike the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication, ensuring that every moment spent in this space is an experience of relaxation and joy.

Craftsman Elegance: Timeless Beauty and Craftsmanship

Embrace the beauty of intricate details and impeccable craftsmanship in this Craftsman-style living room design. We used classic silhouettes, high-quality materials, and thoughtfully selected decor to ensure this space radiates an air of elegance and charm. This interior design approach honors a respected and timeless design tradition that reflects an enduring sense of sophistication and refinement.

Minimalist Oasis: Nordic Simplicity and Comfort

Enter the realm of minimalist living rooms where the essence of Nordic interior design takes center stage. In this interior design, we strike a delicate equilibrium between opulent comfort and practical simplicity, ensuring it serves as a testament to the aesthetic allure of minimalism. Through intentionally cultivating uncluttered environments, this space offers a haven of tranquility for unwinding.

Industrial Prairie Fusion: Where Industry Meets Nature

Explore the intriguing fusion of industrial and natural styles, where urban aesthetics meet organic elements. In this living room, we used a captivating interplay of raw textures and exposed materials, guided by an innovative approach to interior design. The result is an environment that not only ignites curiosity but also nurtures creativity, offering a space where modern urban sensibilities blend with the organic appeal of natural beauty.

Timeless Country Estate: Elegant Retreats with a Rustic Touch

We love the captivating allure of country estate living rooms that exquisitely embody timeless beauty and rustic charm. By adding exquisite wooden accents and inviting furnishings, we transformed this living space into a haven of serenity, evoking the essence of rural living while cocooned within an atmosphere of refined design and modern comforts.

Tradition with a Twist: Modernizing Timeless Beauty

Step into this Chatham model home, where we infused traditional design with a modern sensibility. Here, stone finishes gracefully converge with exquisite rugs, while luxurious lighting enhances the intricate patterns. The result is a living room that strikes a harmonious balance between timeless elegance and contemporary allure, simultaneously classic and cutting-edge.

Crafting Elegant Spaces

If our living room designs have sparked your inspiration, we extend an invitation to envision the potential for your own living space in collaboration with us. At Everything Home, our design-build remodeling team is dedicated to transforming your design dreams into concrete reality. Our commitment lies in imbuing each room with your distinct personality and style. Reach out to us today to embark on a transformative journey that promises to reshape and redefine your home.

Powder rooms offer a unique opportunity to showcase your design style and make a lasting impression on your guests. Despite its small size, the powder room plays a big role in the overall aesthetic and functionality of a home. In this post, we’ll be exploring the importance of both form and function in powder room design and providing tips and guidelines for creating a stunning space. Read on to learn how to design a showstopping powder room.

Emphasize Luxury Elements

The stylish powder rooms featured above exude luxury and sophistication, with the mirrors and accessories creating a grand first impression. Luxury materials and finishes add an air of sophistication and glamour, making the space not only functional but also a true reflection of good taste. 

Adding high-end, high-quality materials and finishes can result in a powder room that has an effortlessly luxurious feel. Consider incorporating marble or granite countertops and adding elegant fixtures and hardware to enhance the design. A stylish sink with a polished faucet will give the room a touch of sophistication, creating a luxurious appeal for your guests.

Add Glitz and Glamour With Gold

Gold has a warm and luxurious metallic hue that can elevate any space, giving it a touch of glitz and glamour. One way to incorporate gold into the design of your powder room is by using golden faucets, hardware, mirror frames, and light fixtures like we used in the above powder room. These elements can provide a touch of shine and add visual interest to the space. 

Another way to add a touch of glamour to your powder room is by incorporating golden tiles, wallpaper, or paint. Gold accents can also be added using decorative accessories such as a gilded tray or candle holders. These small touches can make a big impact, adding a touch of luxury to the space.

Create a Spa-like Atmosphere

Creating a spa-like atmosphere is a great way to infuse a relaxing and rejuvenating ambience in a powder room. Take inspiration from the bright, airy atmosphere of your favorite spa – a guaranteed mood-lifter. Start by choosing soothing colors, such as soft blues, greens, or grays, that promote calm and serenity. To add texture to the room, consider using materials such as stone, wood, or natural fibers and absorbent materials like cotton or linen. These materials will bring a sense of nature into the space and create a warm, welcoming appeal.

Use oil diffusers and scented candles with calming scents like lavender, rosemary, or ylang-ylang. For the finishing touch, consider adding plants or flowers to the space, as they have been shown to have a calming effect and improve air quality. With these design elements in place, you’ll have a powder room that is not only functional but conveys spa-like vibes.

Smart Storage Solutions

While a powder room doesn’t require the full-fledged functionality requirements of a full bathroom, it still needs efficient storage systems to put away, for easy access, extra towels, toilet paper, scented candles, and soaps. Built-in shelving and cabinets can be designed to fit the room; a recessed medicine cabinet can be built into the wall to store toiletries.

Make a Statement With Bold Wallpaper

Powder rooms, though typically small, can have a big impact with the right design elements. By incorporating unique and unexpected elements that reflect your personal style and taste, you can create a statement-making powder room. One way to do this is through the use of patterned wallpaper, which can instantly transform the space and add a bold visual impact. Above, to add style and elegance to the spaces, we used a beautifully patterned grey wallpaper in one powder room and a brilliant yellow wallpaper with peacock motifs in another. Wallpaper is a versatile tool for adding personality and interest, whether you choose a bold graphic print, eclectic mix of patterns, or playful floral design. With the right choice of wallpaper, your powder room can become a stylish and memorable space that leaves a lasting impression on guests.

Declutter. Declutter. Declutter

When designing a powder room, it is essential to prioritize a clutter-free design. Keep in mind that you don’t need to overstock your powder room with accessories, decor, and amenities. Keep them tucked away in neatly organized storage spaces and ensure there is plenty of free counter space for your guests to place their handbags, keys, or makeup. A well-designed powder room should provide a space for guests to freshen up while also complementing the overall design of your home. By prioritizing a clutter-free design, you can ensure that your powder room is both functional and stylish.

To get a clean look, avoid the use of too many different colors, patterns, or materials, as this can make the space feel cluttered and overwhelming. Instead, opt for a minimalistic approach with a neutral color palette that is soothing and calming. Choose simple and understated materials such as white tiles, a neutral-colored sink, and a plain wall mirror that can reflect light and create a sense of space. These elements will provide a clean, clutter-free, and elegant look that won’t distract from the overall design.

Prioritize Functionality

A powder room must prioritize functionality above all else, and your interior designer can help you achieve this while not compromising on aesthetics. This results in a stunning powder room while ensuring that the space is practical, user-friendly, and can be easily maintained. For example, choose materials that are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to moisture. Opt for non-slip flooring materials to prevent accidents. Ensure that the sink, toilet, and other fixtures are situated in a way that allows for comfortable use and easy access.

Additionally, consider adding elements such as a well-placed towel rack or hook and adequate lighting. Don’t forget to consider the placement of outlets and other necessary elements to make sure that the space is both beautiful and practical. Overall, the goal is to create a space where visitors can comfortably complete their necessary tasks.

Pay Attention to the Details

Like everything else in interior design, it is essential to pay attention to the small details in a powder room to create a unique, personality-driven space that feels timeless and curated. Focus on adding beautiful accessories such as soap dispensers, tissue boxes, and wastebaskets. Choose items that fit the style of the room and complement the hardware. Don’t be afraid to mix and match materials, such as glass and metal, to add visual interest. Finally, consider adding artwork to the powder room as we did in the powder room featured above. A unique piece of artwork or vintage finds can add personality and serve as a conversation starter. Choose a piece that fits the overall design, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles. Remember that the small details can make a big impact, so take the time to carefully consider each element in the powder room.

A Balance of Style and Functionality

Designing a powder room is about finding the perfect balance between style and functionality. We hope these tips will inspire you to create your dream powder room. If you need more guidance or professional help, don’t hesitate to consult a professional bathroom designer and remodeler. With their expertise, you can achieve the powder room of your dreams and make it the showstopping feature of your home.

If you are in Central Indiana and wish to renovate your home to reflect your commitment to living a life of wellness, reach out to us for a truly white-glove bathroom remodeling process. From design to construction, we do it all under one roof to ensure the best experience and outcome for your project!

Life is about taking risks and going the distance to see what the future holds. So why should interior design be any different? As homeowners, we often play it safe when it comes to decorating our homes, sticking to neutral themes and generic styles. But, taking calculated design risks can truly elevate a space and make it stand out in a sea of cookie-cutter houses. By incorporating unique elements and personalized touches, your home can reflect your individual tastes, interests, and even your quirks. With the guidance of a skilled designer, no risk is too impossible. 

In this article, we will share 12 calculated design risks to take in your home to create a unique, personalized, and truly one-of-a-kind space. So, if you’re ready to make a bold statement in your home, read on and discover how to turn even your most outrageous design dreams into a stunning reality.

Choose Bold Wallpapers, Colors, and Patterns

One of the easiest ways to add fun and drama and make a space feel unique and more dynamic is by using bold wallpapers in unusual patterns, textures, and colors. Animal prints, big floral patterns, and bright colors can create a unique design statement. In this beautiful music room featured above, our Carmel design and renovation studio chose a soft beige leaf motif layered on a dark grey background, creating a unique, sophisticated aesthetic. The walls mimic the grandeur of the beautiful baby grand piano – a statement piece in the music room.

Include Oversized Lighting

Lighting is the jewelry of any home. It can add a unique panache and grandeur to any space, making it one of the simplest ways to make a bold statement in your home design. This can be especially effective in a large room or open-concept living area where the oversized lights can add a sense of scale and balance. Your designer should consider the overall aesthetic and design style of the home when incorporating oversized lighting to ensure that it complements and enhances the existing design elements rather than detract from them.

For example, in this kitchen featured above, we added two beautiful, oversized pendants over the island, which not only illuminate the area but also draws the eye upwards and creates a stunning focal point.

Mix Patterns For Visual Interest

Homeowners often opt for a neutral theme for a classic, timeless look. But take a risk and try mixing it up a bit! Mixing patterns is a simple design experiment you can try to amplify your home’s appeal without making it look haphazard. By combining different patterns, colors, and textures, your designer can create a harmonious blend of elements that work together to create a cohesive space. The trick is mixing varying scales within the same color family, keeping the decor balanced yet, adding uniqueness and personality. In the example on the left, varying hues of grey mixed with hints of off-white create a cohesive appeal, while in the bathroom on the right, combining two different tile patterns highlights a unique statement-making accent wall.

Create Multiple Focal Points

When it comes to designing a room, there is no rule that states it must have only one focal point. Breaking the norms can often lead to original and aesthetic visual statements. Take the risk and add two (or more!) focal points to draw the eye up, down, and around the space, providing a dynamic visual experience. This can also make a room feel larger and more interesting, as the eye is constantly being directed to different elements. For example, in the living room featured above, we incorporated a gallery wall, a stunning light fixture, and a lovely black ottoman in geometric patterns centered around an elegant, sophisticated fireplace, all of which serves as focal points, creating a strong visual interest.

Incorporate Exciting Artwork

Art has a powerful voice and is a wonderful way to incorporate your personality and interests into your home’s decor. Your artwork reflects who you are and how you live. If you find artworks you like, even if they’re oversized, and you don’t know where to place them, take a risk and make the purchase! You can simply place it on the floor or leave it on a mantlepiece as a beautiful decor piece. They are excellent conversation-starters and encourage guests to engage with the space. A prime example of this is the colorful artwork in this living room which creates a playful, dynamic, and energetic vibe while also complementing the existing decor and design elements in the room. Consult your designer to help you aesthetically display artworks you love that are meaningful to you.

Add Vintage Items

Always keep an eye open for vintage, antique items that can add a unique character and history to your space and serve as a compelling visual element to your home’s decor. Taking a risk by incorporating the old with the new creates unique, lived-in, statement-making rooms that appear more curated. For example, using an old wine barrel as a bar table stand or a vintage clock paired with a modern lamp can add whimsy and style to your home. Not only are vintage items unique, but they also provide an affordable way to make your home sparkle compared to buying new, modern pieces.

Create a Feature Wall

Say goodbye to all-neutral walls by adding a feature wall with bold wallpaper, wood paneling, tile, paint, a curated display of your favorite hobby, a biophilia wall with greenery, or an elegant mural. Feature walls add personality, energy, and variety to a room through colors, patterns, and contrasts, creating an eye-catching visual impact. In the bedroom example above, we created a feature wall with a bold black wallpaper with pink floral highlights, amplifying the oomph factor. In the second example, a blank wall is transformed into a feature wall with the client’s favorite pottery pieces, creating contrast, depth, and a sophisticated visual appeal.

Turn on Dark Mode

It’s an urban myth that painting a small space with a dark color will make it feel smaller. On the contrary, going dark and dramatic is a fun design risk, creating inviting, sophisticated, and intimate rooms. Dark hues add mystery and elegance and can make architectural details stand out. Unlike white, a dark shade has dynamic undertones that keep changing throughout the day. The home office above sports a beautiful dark, luxe jewel tone. See how the different corners of the room are illuminated differently, creating rich and shadowy patches according to the daylight streaming into the room.

Create a Dramatic Ceiling

When designing the interiors of a home, it can be easy to overlook the potential of the ceiling and settle for a plain, neutral shade. Take a bold risk and dress up that fifth wall with elements such as shiplap, ceiling tiles, recessed lighting, or other architectural details to make it visually appealing and dramatic. In the bedroom on the left, we designed a beautiful wood ceiling, adding coziness, warmth, and texture to an otherwise neutral space. The timeless versatility and durability of wood make it an exciting choice for creating an elegant, sophisticated ceiling. Meanwhile, in the hallway on the left, we chose a white color but created a vaulted arch detail with exposed arched beams to add a touch of drama!

Incorporate Colorful Seating

Add Unique Accessories

See how this gorgeous floral-patterned chair and the cute rocking horse infuse the room with color and character! A room isn’t complete until it’s filled with meaningful accessories that lend personality and uniqueness to the space. Smart accessory selection is a fun design risk you can take with the help of your designer to help you showcase your individuality and improve the overall design aesthetic of your home. Add contrasting sharp pops of color with accessories in a neutral room and watch the space come alive.

Infuse with Personality

Keep in mind that your home is an extension of you. So be brave and let your home reflect everything that is unique about you, no matter how unconventional your tastes are.  

Don’t go by the norms of spotless spaces you see in design magazines. Instead, think about your interests, hobbies, and desires and proudly display them in beautiful ways with the help of your interior designer. Incorporate personal items, such as family photos or artwork, or choose bold murals that reflect your personality. See how we showcased our client’s love for golf in this mudroom above with a large wall mural, a golf caddy, and a jar of golf balls to complete the look, leaving no room for doubt about this homeowner’s favorite sport!

“Curate Your Life”

Interior design legend and fashion icon Iris Apfel, who at over 100 years old continues to inspire, teaches us the importance of taking risks in design to curate the life we desire. It is important to remember that the greatest achievements in life come from taking chances. Daring design choices can lead to unique, beautiful, and fabulous results. Not only do these risks enhance the aesthetic of a space, but they can also increase the value of a home. A home that stands out in the market due to its unique and well-designed features will attract potential buyers.

Ready to take the risk? Reach out to us to help you design a home that’s 100% YOU – your Everything Home.

The beginning of a new year is always a great time to take a step back and evaluate one’s priorities and goals. Taking steps towards healthier living and personal improvement continue to be the most popular resolutions year after year.

Prioritizing wellness can easily begin at home through wellness-focused interior design. This refers to design that focuses on improving the health and well-being of inhabitants by providing adequate daylight and views of nature, using colors that promote mental well-being, maintaining healthy indoor air quality, and more. With the help of an experienced interior designer, you can transform your home into a sanctuary of physical and emotional wellness, contributing to a happy and healthy attitude essential to tackling problems calmly and maintaining a positive outlook toward life. Here are some ways to get started.

The Sustainability Mantra

Sustainability and wellness design go hand in hand. Sustainable design refers to creating long-lasting homes with low environmental impact. A great place to start is by talking to an experienced green, eco-friendly interior designer who can source safe furnishings and finishings for your home, as well as identify existing sources of air toxins, including PVC roller shades and mainstream mattresses.

Sustainable design involves integrating healthy and sustainable materials into the structure and design of spaces, including in furnishings and decor. This approach values using solar power sources, upcycled and recycled items, and eco-friendly materials like cork, bamboo, cane, wood, and rattan. It seeks to reduce plastic and waste, and limits the use of harmful materials.

These conscious choices can ensure a timeless home that actively works towards keeping you healthy and inspired.

Biophilic Design

Humans have an inherent connection to the natural world. Being outdoors and immersed in the freshness of nature instantly creates a calming, soothing feeling, allowing our minds to release tension and help us attain clarity in thinking. This is where biophilic design comes in. Biophilia refers to a deep affinity and love for nature. Biophilic design focuses on bringing the beauty and wisdom of the outdoors into interior spaces to harness the health benefits of nature, improve productivity, and promote wellness.

One of the simplest ways to incorporate biophilic design into your home is with greenery. Add plenty of plants to fill your home with freshness since plants also act as air purifiers and mood uplifters. Consult your interior designer to learn about plants that enhance air quality and their optimum positioning in terms of sunlight and ventilation. Succulents and cacti are easy plants to get started with before you move on to larger plants. Tending to and caring for plants can in itself become a meditative activity and help create balance, focus, and connectivity with life.

Similarly, decorating your home with artworks of nature and using fabric with nature-themed prints in furnishings and decor also work as fantastic mood boosters.

Including water features like an indoor fountain or an aquarium is another wonderful way to bring the seductive and soothing power of nature indoors.

Ventilation for Freshness

Breathing fresh, clean air is a huge factor in wellness design. Ensure healthy air circulation by allowing plenty of fresh air to flow indoors and removing stale, stagnant air and odors. This can be achieved by using large windows, high ceilings, vents, filters, and HVAC systems.

For cases of known Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) issues, it helps to hire a specialist who can bring their measurement tools to your home and develop an IAQ improvement plan. They can identify any issues your home might have with radon, mold, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

If there are no known air quality issues, and if you aren’t suffering from typical IAQ symptoms, including coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, or chronic headaches, you can visually inspect for mold and use a $20 home test kit for radon. Although we, as a design-build studio, help our clients navigate all such IAQ issues, there is some good do-it-yourself guidance on the EPA’s website and in this Washington Post article.

With foundational/structural IAQ issues behind you, your sustainability-focused interior designer will help you navigate the product choices that are low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In particular, this includes paints, wood preservatives, glues and adhesives, particle boards, and furniture with cushioning (chairs, sofas).

Adding plenty of greenery to your home decor can significantly improve air quality. Additionally, smart-home-enabled air quality monitoring systems, humidity-sensing bathroom vent fans, and integrated cooktop-vent hood technology can help keep indoor air fresh.

Good ventilation systems can help rid your home of moisture, dampness, smoke, odors, dust, and pollution. Uninterrupted air flow is essential for improving the life of your home and its inhabitants.

Ensure periodic inspection of mechanical and electric ventilation systems, as these may cause adverse effects if not maintained well. Finally, make sure to use eco-friendly cleaning products to maintain your good indoor air quality.

Lighting it Right

Daylight is a crucial element in keeping the biological circadian rhythm balanced as part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Our eyes detect light that tells our brains when it’s time to rise, work, play, and sleep. The right kind of light at the right moment helps support and maintain our bodily functions. This is why it is important to plan layouts that ensure plenty of natural light inside.

In spaces where the structure doesn’t allow for sufficient natural light, artificial lighting systems that can mimic the passage of natural daylight may be used. These lights can replicate the natural colors of daylight during the day and thereby help enhance mood and boost productivity levels.

These kinds of circadian rhythm lighting systems are hugely popular in commercial spaces to help boost employee productivity. Now homeowners are also switching to smart lighting systems that allow them to feel energized and refreshed during the day and sleep better during the night.

By carefully selecting lighting colors, one can support moods, recovery time from stress, and sleep quality. If you are interested in optimizing your home’s lighting, make sure to raise the topic with your interior designer at the beginning of the design process.

Colors for Wellness

Like lighting, colors can also have a huge impact on your mood and wellness, so it’s important to surround yourself with the right colors to reduce stress and promote positivity. Neutrals like black, gray, white, and brown invoke a peaceful ambiance and can also establish a balance by serving as beautiful backgrounds to layer other passive and active complementary colors.

Active colors like yellow and pink are bright and can excite the mind and boost creativity. Biophilic hues like blues and greens are known to create balance and enhance relaxation, calm the mind and help with mental focus.

Soft blues are great choices for bedrooms, spas, and wellness spaces.

Restorative Spaces

An important aspect of wellness design is consciously creating restorative spaces dedicated to emotional and physical nourishment. Carve out a personal sanctuary to promote wellness and healing in a quiet nook or unused room. This could include home gyms, a yoga and meditation room, and home spas that could include a hot tub, steam room, and sauna.

Make sure that the restorative space fits your particular needs. If you have a massage therapist regularly visit your home, make sure that you design your home to include that. If you prefer relaxing in an ergonomic, zero-gravity recliner, design a space to support your ideal experience. Whether you prefer to use a headset or speakers, subtle lighting or darkness, or the inclusion of scented candles, oils, or incense, your home sanctuary should be designed to be your rejuvenation cocoon. In fact, the better the space fits you, the more likely you are to use it and benefit from it.

General Organization and Decluttering

A disorganized space can lead to stress and anxiety, create imbalances, and distract you easily. Marie Kondo your home. Design smart storage in creative ways to hide necessary but not-so-pretty items and exhibit pieces that are meaningful to you. Ensure you have designated spaces for everything in your home.

Towards a Healthy Future

A home designed for wellness helps to bring its inhabitants into harmony with both life as a whole and each other. It becomes a sanctuary. It nourishes.

If you are in Central Indiana and wish to renovate your home to reflect your commitment to living a life of wellness, reach out to us for a truly white-glove renovation process. From design to construction, we do it all under one roof to ensure the best experience and outcome for your project!

Two-toned cabinetry is a fun way to add visual interest and charming focal points to your kitchen. Practical, aesthetic, and budget-friendly, two-toned kitchen cabinetry offers a timeless look that is here to stay.

While there are no hard and fast rules governing this look, here are some inspirational ideas for Insta-worthy two-toned cabinet designs.

Top to Bottom Color

A reliable approach to mixing two color tones in kitchen cabinetry is to pick different colors for the top (wall) cabinets and bottom (base) cabinets. A lighter hue for the wall cabinets and a darker color choice for the base ones is a safe choice.

A lighter top cabinet makes the room feel brighter and airier, while dark color choices hold greater visual weight and are best applied as an anchoring shade on base cabinets.

However, with a bit of creativity and the guidance of an interior design pro, one need not follow such prescribed patterns.

Interesting Inlays

Mix and match the cabinet box and door colors for a more playful two-toned technique. Try this if you’re looking for a more artistic or bold statement!

Focal Points

Use color in the kitchen to call attention to specific focal points—like an island, pantry door, range hood, or a glass display cabinet wall. Make these unique features pop with a standout color that is different from the surrounding cabinetry.

If you’re eager to include more pops of color in your home while keeping a neutral base, this is the perfect opportunity to have a little fun! Depending on the size of your kitchen, you may even opt for a third color choice. We only recommend this for larger areas with more room to make a statement without cluttering the design. Otherwise, stick with different shades of the same two colors.

Expanding Spaces

Color is more than a hue–it is a helpful design tool that, when used efficiently, can make a room feel more open or intimate. If your kitchen space feels unusually large, you may opt for moody colors and wood tones to make the cabinetry feel closer and make the room feel cozier.

Crowd-Pleasing Color Combos

One of the most-loved color combinations in kitchen cabinetry is wood tones juxtaposed with white. We love using light alder and dark walnut woods in this style for their universal appeal and relatively simple combinations. Black and gray also fit fabulously into the mix.

Alternatively, blues and greens are fun colors to work with. From deep navy to vintage teal to sage green—these beautiful hues give a nice pop of color without distracting from otherwise neutral palettes.

Most important is to have a professional interior designer or kitchen designer involved in your color scheme, as their eye and experience will ensure that you don’t make a costly mistake.

We’d love to chat about how we can design your entire home while adding the perfect colors to your kitchen. Contact us to get started!

With the seasons changing and days getting shorter, there’s no better place to hibernate this winter than your very own home theater! What does it take to create the perfect space for kicking back to watch your favorite flick at home? You’ll definitely need a big screen, high-quality projector, and smooth surround sound. Low lighting to set the mood and some comfy seats are staple features too. And don’t forget to add a snack bar (with a popcorn machine of course!) for good measure. Movie rooms can bring family and friends together and provide endless entertainment but they are a splurge—so we’re here to help you make every dollar count with smart design.

5-star home theater design elements:

Dedicated Space

We’re all about flexible design and multi-use rooms, but theater rooms call for their own dedicated space. Finished basements are often ideal because they typically lack large windows and have expansive wall space. Ground and upper-level rooms work well too, but you may have more windows and doors to contend with. Another key component is electric. Make sure the space you choose has plenty of opportunity for outlets to power motorized screens, projectors, audio, and so forth. High ceilings are another plus, providing additional space for larger screens.

Light Control

Normally natural light is a designer’s best friend, but not in a theater room. Nothing dampens a movie mood like glare! Rooms without windows are best, but if that’s not possible blackout shades and draperies will be your best friend. Dimmable ceiling lights and wall sconces are a great addition for flexible lighting when needed. 

Screens, Surround Sound, and Projectors

The heart of a theater room is the technical hardware to present the movie.  Selecting quality screens, audio, and projectors should be a priority. Stationary and remote-retractable wall screens are both an option depending on your preference. It’s best to plan for a ceiling mount projector too. You will also want to consult with an electrician when designing the theater space to accommodate surround sound audio hook-up, and a carpenter for built-in solutions to conceal hardware.

Seat Deets

Comfy seating is a must! Consider the physical layout of the room since comfy furniture choices ultimately must be appropriate to space dimensions. Consider your movie viewing audience when exploring options. Sectionals can support family-style theater rooms, while individual theater-style seating may be a better option for friend gatherings. You might choose to mix the two for the best of both worlds. Ottomans and recliners are personal preferences too, so take your time looking (and sitting) around before you commit to a furnishing plan. And don’t forget to add a basket of cuddly throws to your design for ultimate coziness!

Paint and Decor

Home theaters have their own unique vibe, and are very fun to decorate! Wall color is probably the most important decor element. We recommend a dark cozy color for a full theater effect. This can be a traditional black wall paint or something more interesting like a deep moody emerald, navy, plum, or teal. Bold wallpapers are another fun option. We recommend accenting the space with art inspired by your favorite films, or even crave-worthy cinema snacks. 

Snack Bar

What’s a movie night without snacks? So many choices, with our favorite being buttery, salty popcorn! Build a handy snack bar into your design—complete with a beverage cooler, beer taps, a mini-fridge for your favorite grab-n-go foods, candy machines, and a popcorn popper of course! With all this sticky goodness, you might want to add in a small sink for hand washing and light dishwashing. And don’t forget storage for all your party ware.

So much fun to be had hosting family and friends in your very own home theater. Contact us to start planning your perfect movie-watching oasis for some very cuddly weekends ahead, at home!

Our homes are a special place full of fond memories—it’s no surprise that we often want to stay there as long as we can. Aging in place uses smart design (from the get-go!) to ensure you can stay comfortable in your home and remain in the community you love for all of life’s seasons. No matter your age, there are some key components to consider when intentionally designing a forever home, and we’re here to help!

6 Tips for Aging in Place:

Zero-Entry

Eliminating or minimizing steps is one of the most important “steps” you can take in designing an accessible home. Consider your path from garage to entry, sidewalk to front door, back door to patio, etc, eliminating steps in your design whenever possible. Zero-entry living is easiest to achieve when drafting your home plan, be sure to include your architect and builder in this conversation from the start. Retrofitting homes to be zero-entry is also possible by the use of ramps if your home is existing.

Ranch Floor Plans

A ranch floor plan tops the list for long-term house goals! The ability to access your whole home without the worry of climbing a flight of stairs is of high importance, especially if mobility becomes limited. If you plan to be in your home post-retirement we highly recommend a ranch floor plan.

Accessible Showers

Easily accessible low-entry showers are something to plan for as well. You may even consider shower solutions without a door, with a half wall open entry instead for ultimate accessibility without the bother of opening, closing, and cleaning doors. Handrails, built-in benches, and hand showers are also important options to explore.

Motorized Window Treatments

Opening and closing curtains and blinds can become cumbersome and involve clunky ladders. Plan ahead with motorized options to automate this sometimes double daily chore, at sunrise and sunset. Be sure to include electrical outlets where needed when in the design phase to more easily achieve this goal.

Wide Doorways

Adding wider doorways to your home in case greater accessibility is needed in the future can bring peace of mind. It’s best to discuss this option with an architect pre-construction, ideally during the design drafting process. Additional space may be needed on the overall floor plan to successfully widen door openings while still allowing sufficient space for trim.

Low-Maintenance

Living a low-maintenance life is liberating. Start by being mindful of square footage needed and steer clear of having too much space to clean and maintain. Be choosy with selections too. Opt for lower-maintenance finishes like brick and stone over siding which more regularly needs to be cleaned, and cement board which requires regular painting. Keep landscaping to a minimum and include a landscape designer in your planning to ensure low-maintenance plant selections are made.

Are you or a family member planning to build or adapt their forever home? Having an experienced designer on your team can help ensure you don’t miss an opportunity to live your best life at home for many years to come. Contact us to get the convo started!

Happy Home, Happy Life