Author: dhopkins

High Value and Luxurious Remodeling Ideas for Your Home

Posted on by dhopkins
By Natalie Akins, Guest Blogger, Innovative Building Materials, With Photos from Eklektik Interiors

Everyone has their own luxury home remodel wishlist, whether it’s a deep soaking tub and spa-like bathroom, custom wall coverings like bespoke wallpaper, a feature wall with custom artwork, or high-end appliances in the kitchen, there is something out there for everyone’s taste. 

Whole House Luxury Upgrades

Some upgrades are worth doing throughout your home, and they aren’t limited to just one room. 

Radiant Floor Heating

One of the most popular luxury upgrades to any home is the addition of radiant floor heating. Once you have heated floors, you may not remember life before! Designed to evenly heat a space from the floor up, instead of from the ceiling down such as with forced hot air or traditional radiators, this feature is about more than just warm feet. Radiant heat more evenly heats a room and takes advantage of the fact that heat rises, making it a very efficient heat source.

 A word of caution: to get the best return on your radiant floor investment, you’ll need to consider radiant floor heat insulation in your subfloor. These specific subfloors help to retain heat, spreading it out even better and more efficiently. The right subfloor can also help your floor retain heat for longer, requiring less power to heat overall.

 Feature Walls

Walls are blank canvases begging for interesting details to add dimension and depth to any room. Making one of a room’s four walls stand out from the crowd can add a custom feel to your home, as well as allowing you to try bold colors, types of wall coverings, or accents that might be overwhelming across your entire space, but just right for one wall. A smaller space also allows you to splurge without breaking the bank.

High-End Wall Coverings and Custom Millwork

High-end wall coverings come in various textures, color schemes, and styles, from patterned wallpaper to natural textiles. When combined with custom millwork like moldings, trim, wall paneling, and crown molding, it can put a refined touch on your space. Particularly helpful in rooms with large, expansive walls, wainscoting can break up the space, add visual interest, and draw attention to any artwork displayed above.

 Kitchen Upgrades

An inviting kitchen is the focal point of a home for family and guests. It seems like no matter what, everyone ends up in the kitchen at some point whether they are preparing for dinner or picking out dessert. Kitchens are a great place to show off your personality and create the most functional space possible, bringing glamour to your home with luxurious appliances, custom cabinetry, and breathtaking finishes that will make every day feel like you’re on vacation.

Beverage Centers

Beverage centers have exploded in popularity, and for good reason. A well-stocked beverage center allows you or your guests to easily grab or mix their favorite drink in a dedicated spot complete with refrigeration, a coffee station, and the guest-worthy glassware. This also helps control traffic in the busy kitchen hub, keeping your main prep and entertaining space available for food.

Custom Ranges, Hoods, Ovens, and Warming Drawers

When choosing where to invest in your kitchen, a good range never goes out of style. With more and more custom options on the market, you can completely tailor your range to your cooking and entertaining style, and accent it with a custom hood for an extra tailored look in your kitchen. Customizing the color, finish, and shape of this kitchen staple immediately brings a personalized look, replacing the standard rectangular hoods of the past. 

A beautiful kitchen will undoubtedly get some use, and for larger gatherings or meals having multiple ovens can help consolidate prep and cooking time. For even more convenience, a warming drawer can keep your food warm for seconds and thirds.

Sail Over to your Kitchen Island

Kitchen islands are central features to any kitchen, and what better way to draw attention to this focal point than with a custom, complementary color to offset the island from the rest of your kitchen? Top it with a one-of-a-kind countertop, and you can easily make a bold statement with this relatively simple upgrade.

Countertops on your island and throughout your kitchen are a good opportunity to show off your personality and highlight your taste. Natural stone, like quartzite slab, offers subtle beauty, with neutral tones and natural variations, while remaining durable and easy to maintain. Mixing materials such as natural stone with butcher block combines complementary styles with function.

 If you’re replacing your kitchen island, consider incorporating amenities like built-in refrigerated drawers, a warming drawer, bookshelves, outlets, and storage space maximized for awkward items like cutting boards or particularly large pans.

 Primary Bed and Bath Upgrades

Your day begins and ends in your primary bed and bath suite. It should be a space you can’t wait to get back to! We spend hours each day in our bedroom between preparing for the day, sleeping, or even just resting. High-end details in primary bedrooms and bathrooms can make them even more comfortable and convenient.

 Dressing Room

Closets have certainly trended towards being bigger over the last several decades, but have you made the leap from a closet to a dressing room? Beyond just being a walk-in closet space, a dressing room is equipped with counters, storage, mirrors, vanities, and more.

 Dressing rooms are not just a place to get dressed—they are a place to truly get ready. For an added perk, add a mini-fridge stocked with your favorite beverages.

 Spa Bathroom Upgrades

Being able to relax in a spa-like oasis, right in your own home, gives you a private and customized place to truly let go of any stressors. Instead of packing up to go to the spa, you can head right into your bathroom for an unforgettable experience.

Popular bathroom upgrades include everything from tub upgrades to changing out the hardware. Deep soaking tubs have risen to popularity and come equipped with features to maximize heat retention, prolonging your soak.

Custom double-vanities give you and a partner space to spread out, while still being together, with high-quality craftsmanship and custom color schemes. While you are looking at your vanity, don’t forget about high-end faucet upgrades, like black bathroom faucets, that can stand out against popular neutral bathroom fixture colors like white and grey.

Bathrooms are the perfect place to use your green thumb—the relatively high humidity of your bathroom is the perfect atmosphere for a vertical garden, adding natural and relaxing elements to the space.  

 And one of the ultimate bathroom upgrades is an in-home steam or sauna room where you can go in, close the door, and be transported to another world.

 No Wrong Place to Start

Your remodeling options are endless for every room of the house. It’s just a matter of picking what is most important to you and then making some choices. Luxurious upgrades to your home not only make your space more welcome and comfortable for you but can add serious resale value for future prospective buyers. You can’t go wrong!   

Natalie Akins is the Interior Design Editor at Innovative Building Materials. With over 20 years of interior design experience, Natalie has worked on many projects including commercial office design and residential spaces.

How to Clean Antique Furniture and Décor the Right Way

Posted on by dhopkins

By Adriana Lopez, Guest Blogger from Porch.com 

Keeping things nice and clean is an important part of good home maintenance. If you’re an enthusiastic antique collector or you’ve recently received an inherited piece of furniture from your parents or grandparents, it’s important to know how to clean a variety of surfaces and materials properly. When you know how to clean metal, wood, and stone the right way, you can restore antique furniture and other items back to their full glory. Read on to learn how to clean virtually any surface in your home without causing damage so that you can enjoy your beautiful antiques and special furniture for years to come.

Identify Your Antiques

In order to keep your antique items clean, you’ll need to start by figuring out exactly what you have. Examine the item closely to determine what type of metal, wood, or stone it’s made of. This also applies to antique fabrics and area rugs. Whether it’s silk, wool, or some other material, knowing what you’re working with will make it easier to clean the correct way, since not all materials are cleaned in the same manner.

To start, identify antique items in your home and determine what they’re made of. Do some online research to find the era, maker, and material of each piece. Catalog each piece, its materials, and how to clean it for future reference. Many homeowners have items around the house that are valuable antiques, and they may not even know it!

  • In the kitchen, look for vintage silverware, dishes, crystal, and china sets.
  • In the bedroom, examine old chairs, dressers, bed stands, and mirrors.
  • All around the house, look at accent pieces like tables, chairs, and benches.
  • Check your lamps, books, and bric-a-brac.

Materials that Can be Cleaned with Common Household Products

Some antiques can easily be cleaned using products you already have at home. You can also make your own organic cleaners that don’t contain any harsh chemicals, which may also help to prevent damage to your furniture. Here’s how you can safely clean and/or update most antiques — but do your research, because sometimes, stripping, painting, reupholstering, or making other modifications can significantly reduce the value of some pieces.

  • First, look for signs of pests like termites and furniture beetles that could chew up old wooden furniture. Gently shake the furniture and open drawers to confirm that there are no animal nests inside. Look for small holes and urine smells, and examine the entire piece from top to bottom, as well as underneath to make sure that there’s nothing hiding and that no pests will end up infesting your home.
  • Clean your furniture with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris.
  • Use a microfiber cloth dampened with warm water and a mild household to remove grime from wood, glass, metal, and stone.
  • Scrub away grime in crevices and corners with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
  • If your wood or metal furniture is covered in layers of paint or flaky finishes, use sandpaper to remove it. Sanding the furniture will restore it to its natural state, and you can apply a new finish.
  • As you’re working, consider using some DIY techniques that will give antique furniture new life, like reupholstering a set of old dining chairs, stripping and staining an old wood dresser, or turning a large, old headboard into a chalkboard with chalk paint.

Furniture that Requires Special Handling

Some materials may require that you use specialized cleaning chemicals, or even hazardous materials to remove rust or old layers of paint. It’s up to you to decide whether this method is worth it or whether it’s best to leave the furniture as-is.

  • Take your antique item to a restoration specialist if it’s extremely old, rare, or valuable, since DIY cleaning can permanently damage it.
  • Remove rust from metals like iron or stainless steel with a calcium, lime, and rust removing product.
  • Shine silver or brass by rubbing it gently with a slice of cucumber to gently and naturally lift the tarnish away. You can also make a DIY solution of baking soda, water, and lemon to help restore these types of metal to their original brilliant shine.
  • Clean metals like copper, gold, silver, and aluminum with organic or natural cleaners. Avoid using chemicals on these types of metals whenever possible, as they could damage the finish.
  • Apply a coat of wax to restore shine to wood furniture. Beeswax has been used for centuries, but it can leave a sticky film on your furniture. Try carnauba wax if you want to restore the shine on original hardwood floors. For antique and vintage wood furniture, the best type of wax to use is mineral-based wax, since it won’t damage the original finish on older pieces.

 

Stain Removers and Repair Techniques for Wood, Metal, and Fabrics

Stubborn stains and scratches can affect the beauty and integrity of your antiques. Here are some tips to help you remove stains and repair scratches the right way:

  • A simple mixture of gentle soap and water typically does a good job of removing stains from wood. If you end up with tougher grime, try some oil soap (you can find it at most home improvement stores) and a soft cloth to gently wipe the mark or stain away.
  • To remove rust from metal, start by gently sanding it off with low-grit sandpaper. If the rust remains, use gentle yet effective rust removing products. It’s best to do a spot test in an inconspicuous area first just in case the cleaner causes any damage or leaves a mark behind.
  • Use a wood filler to repair scratches and gouges in wood furniture. Make sure you choose the right color, so it matches as closely to the original as possible. Clean the scratched area with a dry cloth, then apply the wood filler until it’s filled in all the way. You can also use iodine, a colored furniture polish, or even instant coffee (depending on the color of the furniture).
  • To remove scratches from metal, try some vinegar or a powdered scratch removing product if the scratch is minimal. For deeper scratches, you’ll need to sand the area first, then polish it thoroughly to restore it and make it look new again.
  • Clean antique fabrics with a mixture of gentle soap and warm water. Hand washing most fabrics should do the trick. If you still can’t get the stain to come out, consider taking the item to a professional, but never wash it in the washing machine, as it could permanently damage the fabric.

 

How to Store and Display Your Antiques to Prevent Damage

Taking good care of your antiques will preserve the integrity of your furniture and other valuables. Part of that is making sure you’re storing and displaying everything the right way. With the right storage methods, you’ll be able to preserve these priceless items so they can continue to be passed down to future generations.

  • Store delicate items and breakables in a storage cabinet with a door. The door will keep everything protected from dust and dirt so that it remains clean and well-preserved.
  • Keep antique wood furniture out of direct sunlight at all times. The UV rays from the sun can cause discoloration and dry out the wood, which can result in warped or cracked pieces.
  • Apply a quality wood oil treatment to unfinished wood furniture at least once a year to keep it protected. For finished furniture, dust it regularly and apply a color-safe wood cleaner or furniture polish as needed.
  • Store your antiques in a part of the home that has a reasonable humidity level between the recommended 30 and 50 percent. Rooms that are too humid or too dry can cause furniture to expand and contract, which may cause in cracks and splinters.
  • Apply a protective coat to vintage textiles and fabrics to help prevent stains. Make sure you use the correct product based on whether the fabric is made for interior or exterior use (such as an antique outdoor area rug). Never wash vintage fabric in the washing machine, and avoid using cleaners that contain harsh chemicals.

Proper Antique Restoration and Care: Avoiding Mistakes

If you don’t know how to restore and care for antiques properly, it can lead to some pretty upsetting results.

  • If you take your antique to a professional restorer, make sure that you’re clear about what you expect. Some antique restorers might refinish that old chest you love rather than just clean it up, which can lead to disappointment.
  • Never use a cleaning product on antique surfaces unless you’re positive they will not cause permanent damage or discoloration. A good rule of thumb is to try DIY organic cleaners whenever possible, since chemicals can cause all kinds of problems. Test the cleaner on an inconspicuous section of the piece.
  • Avoid getting wood furniture too wet, or it may warp or swell. Always use the minimum amount of water needed to clean it up.
  • Unless you plan to recycle or upcycle old furniture, it’s best to simply clean it up and let its original beauty shine. Refinishing will completely change the piece — and may negatively affect the value.

Once you know how to clean and care for your antiques and antique furniture, you’ll be able to keep them in good shape for another hundred years or more. Know when to DIY and when to hire a professional to handle the task. With these tips in mind, you can start to clean and maintain your antique furniture with confidence.

Originally posted on Porch.com

Eggersmann Interview with Kathy Anderson

Posted on by dhopkins

 

Originally Published On eggersmannusa.com  https://eggersmannusa.com/interview-with-eklektik-interiors/

We had the pleasure to work with Eklektik on a project in Tomball, a suburb of Houston with sprawling views. This was a unique home, so we were eager to learn about Kathy and her team’s process in designing the beautiful space.

eggersmann: We love the architecture and industrial feel to this home. Was this a factor when planning the kitchen layout? What are some of the unique features you brought into this design? 

Kathy:  This was a fun project for me on a personal level. In the beginning stages of planning the home, we were struggling a bit with finding the right architect for this project. The homeowners knew what they wanted but were struggling to find the right architect to help them translate their vision. I suggested for them to talk to a few architects and I threw my nephew’s name in the mix. His firm is out of Salt Lake City, Utah, and he and I have always wanted to do a project together. They interviewed him and it was a fantastic ‘fit’.

It was a very collaborative effort among designer, architect, and homeowner, which I personally think makes for a much more successful project. When designer and architect can collaborate freely, there is nothing that can’t be accomplished!

Architecturally, the iron beams run throughout the main area of the home and the sprawling patio on the back of the home. It did give the home a bit of an industrial feel which was softened by the cedar ceilings that run throughout the main living area and the beautiful walnut that encases the kitchen cabinetry and also the built-ins on either side of the board-formed concrete walls and the bar in the lounge.

The client owns a commercial concrete company and a metal fabrication company. We really wanted to incorporate some of those elements into this home while still keeping it fresh, inviting, warm, yet with a livable feel and cool vibe.

Architect: Blackbox Design Studios  |  Photographer: Alan Blakeley

eggersmann: There are a variety of finishes and textures in the kitchen area, but they all work together harmoniously. How did you make your selections?

Kathy:  We had looked at multiple options for cabinetry in this home and we knew that we wanted something unique, clean, but not cold. Eggersmann totally fit the bill. Once my clients saw their quality and functionality, they were sold.

We loved the textured finish of the wood cabinets on the islands. With the smooth finish of the cabinets on the back wall, we could use a fabulous slab in the area above the ‘dirty sink’.  Adding floating walnut shelves helped to tie in the walnut frame that encases the entire back wall.

I love organic materials working with hard/cold items like iron/steel. I think the juxtaposition of the two are interesting and bring out the best of both.

eggersmann: Not every project we work on has three separate islands.  Was this a client request or did the design develop organically? Can you tell us the thought behind this design decision?

Kathy: I do a lot of double islands in kitchens. Here in Texas, we have pretty good sized kitchens. I like double islands, when the space allows, because I get a workstation in one and a serving station in the other. Sometimes that works better than one enormous island.

We went with three islands here because the back wall was so long and the ‘work island’ would have been a long walk to the ‘serving/eating’ island. The work island has a 6’ Galley Workstation in it along with an induction cook top right beside it. It works great for the cook to prep and cook without having to move back and forth a lot. I love that set up.

We made a walk-through so the homeowner wouldn’t have to walk all the way around the prep/cook island to serve. It made for an easier transition, plus  the added bonus of having the smaller island lends another location for  food at  parties and social events, still leaving the eating island for its designated purpose.

I love the wood top on the serving/eating island. It just really tied in the wood on the back wall making the space more cohesive. The family uses the wood top table for all of  their meals and loves that they can all gather at that space  for conversation and connecting. We all connect in the kitchen more than any other place in the home. This kitchen certainly delivers.

eggersmann: Aside from this home, we know that you do many residential projects across the state of Texas and we would love to hear how your process and concepts have changed since the events of the last year in the wake of the pandemic?

Kathy: Our biggest problem has been just getting product. Seems as if the supply chain is completely broken and just makes it really difficult. I get tired of saying ‘due to COVID’. Hopefully, that will get better as time goes on.

We have projects going in California and St. Kitts right now as well and that presents its own set of issues. Shipping is a problem too, however, we trudge through and do the best we can.

THIS TOO SHALL PASS. 😊

Contact Kathy and her incredible team!

Kathy@eklektikinteriors.com
832.804.6300
eklektikinteriors.com

Grandmillennial Style Is All the Rage: How to Embrace this Design Trend in Your Home

Posted on by dhopkins

Originally Published on Redfin by

With content provided by Eklektik Designers Kelly Wesson and Melinda Smith

Millennials are taking a leaf out of their grandparents’ book with a modern-meets-traditional decor style known as grandmillennial. Identified as one of the major design trends of this year, grandmillennial style is a throwback to the decor we’ve all grown up with and seen in our grandparents’ homes. The look aims to add personality and eclectic touches with bold patterns and textures, contrasting with the minimalist, modern styles that have been trending for years.

Whether you live in a contemporary home in Los Angeles, CA, or a cozy craftsman in Seattle, WA, you can easily incorporate this design trend into your space with a few simple additions. Here’s how to perfectly achieve the granny chic style in your home.

What is grandmillennial style?

Also known as “granny-chic,” grandmillennial style is ideal if you’re looking to repurpose hand-me-down decor items or break away from the minimalist aesthetic trending on social media. Grandmillennial merges modern-day design trends – think Scandinavian, mid-century modern, and minimalism – with retro elements to create a warmer, cozier approach to home decor with lots of color and prints. The style is about filling your space with items that let your personality shine through.

Components that make up grandmillennial style

The key to achieving grandmillennial style is to pair vintage with modern items in your space. It’s all about finding the right balance between the two – and not overdoing it – so you aren’t left with a space that’s more granny than granny chic. But, where do you start? Let’s break down the various elements that make up this popular home decor trend:

Patterned wallpaper

Patterns are essential to achieving a grandmillennial home design. Classic prints such as toile, chintz, chinoiserie, or florals are making a huge comeback and can be incorporated into your home design through curtains, upholstery, or wall coverings. When choosing to use these bold patterns, keep the color palette light and consistent to avoid adding an overly-cluttered look to your space. The aim is for the space to look cozy and layered. A good rule of thumb when deciding which pattern to use is to keep the room’s size in mind. The larger the space, the larger the pattern or print you can use, whereas the smaller the space, the smaller the pattern.

Bold fabric patterns and colors

Patterns and bold colored fabric choices are great ways to add personality and a touch of whimsy in any space. You can experiment with different fabric options on your upholstery and curtains, and it’s a bigger statement than simply adding patterned blankets or throw pillows, though these are great layering pieces if you’re just trying out the style. However, if you’re not ready to invest in a colorful couch or if you’re new to the style, start with a smaller furniture piece like an accent chair or ottoman.

“Grandmillennial style can appropriately be achieved by taking antique pieces directly from your grandparents (or an antique shop) and reupholstering them in new fabric. Applying a lush velvet in a bold color can enhance the antique piece’s look in an updated way. Alternatively, going with a large-scale pattern can truly combine the “granny” look with modern trends to create a fun and visually interesting piece that everyone will comment on. This is a great way to upcycle a well-built piece of furniture if you’re not wanting to spend a pretty penny on new items that may not be built as well as you hope they are.” – Kelly Wesson, Interior Designer, Eklektik Interiors

Rattan or wicker

If you’re dipping your toes into the granny-chic style, wicker and rattan furnishings are approachable options and can fit seamlessly into any aesthetic.

Brass, porcelain, and plenty of texture

Achieve the granny chic look by incorporating hues of brass or gold – think a brass Victorian-style mirror or gold candle holders. You can also use blue and white porcelain decor throughout, such as a vase or decorative kitchenware. Thrifting these kinds of decor items from an antique store or thrift store is a great way to truly achieve that unique, vintage look.

Dark stained wood furniture

Wood furniture in darker tones is right at home in grandmillennial style. Instead of trying to cover up the dark-stained pieces of furniture you already have with paint, keep them exactly as is. Side tables, cabinets, or console tables made of walnut or cherry wood are great darker-toned furniture pieces and can easily be found in thrift stores if you don’t already have one.

“A great way to incorporate this style is to pair modern minimalist art over a more traditional or antique buffet or console table. Finish it off with a glass-based table lamp, and some smaller décor pieces like fashion books and a trailing house plant to bring in some softness.” – Melinda Smith, Interior Designer, Eklektik Interiors

Embellishments

Grandmillennial style embraces the use of embellishments. Think trims such as tassels, ruffles, pleats, and fringe. These embellishments can adorn any piece of decor, from pillows and blankets to even lampshades. If you’re testing out the trend, try using embellishments in complementary shades to your existing decor and add texture to your space.

Needlepoint

What was once a pastime reserved for your grandparents is now a hallmark of the grandmillennial style. Needlepoint is enjoying its resurgence as a newfound hobby and collector’s item among millennials. Plus, you may even already have embroidered pillows and wall hangings stowed away to display. If you have a deft hand with crafts, you can create your own embroidered pillowcase or artwork to display in a vintage picture frame or stitched as a sassy saying on a throw pillow.

Display your collections

While “knickknacks” were once considered clutter, they are now essential components of this emerging trend. Maybe you’re an avid collector of China teacups, dishware, figurines, crystals, or some other kind of trinkets or baubles. With grandmillennial style, any of these items that are packed away in storage can now be brought out and displayed to bring a touch of granny-chic to your interior design. These display items can also include practical components such as vintage candle holders or old jars repurposed as plant holders. To prevent the mix from looking cluttered, group similar items to create a cohesive look and pull your collection together.

The key to grandmillennial style is to keep it fresh

Decorating your home in grandmillennial style needs balance, and it can be easy to go overboard. The goal is to get the right blend of a sleek modern loft in Manhattan, New York, and the cozy vibes of your grandparents’ home in Phoenix, Arizona. But one step too far, and it can look more granny than grandmillennial. Pick key items in your home that will make the most significant difference rather than changing everything in your home at one go.

Originally published on Redfin

Infusing Your Family Culture Into Your Home

Posted on by dhopkins

Tradition and culture contribute to our sense of comfort, belonging, and unique social identity. Finding ways to infuse your combined family culture into your home décor will ensure your home is a true reflection of everyone that lives under your roof and a safe, wonderful place you long to be.  Recognizing what is most important to you and emphasizing that throughout your home will put your passions on display and represent your unique life.  It is possible to merge different styles to create an eclectic, culturally rich home design that is cohesive and enhances those feelings of comfort and belonging for your family.

There are many ways that you can showcase your culture in your home to honor your family’s past, while also celebrating your current combined culture, which defines your family’s values, beliefs, and personal interests. When carefully and intentionally selected, the colors and finishes, textures and patterns, and lighting and accessories you choose, will all speak to your unique family culture and truly make your house a home.

COLOR CONNECTION:

Like an old song that instantly transports you back to the past or an aroma that you associate with a cherished memory, color can evoke an intimate connection to the senses. In design we often use a simple understanding of color’s warmth or coolness to add or subtract attention to a space, either enhancing or reducing an emotional reaction.  Infusing your surroundings with the colors that you naturally gravitate toward will create emotional and cultural connections in your space. There are so many ways to add color to a space through paint, wallpaper, accessories, fabrics, and art, to name a few. If your preferred color palette is monochromatic, you can also create similar emotional connections through texture and patterns.

CULTURAL COLLECTIONS:

Collections tell a story; a walk through time and experiences. When design is approached from the perspective of storytelling, it gives life to the static objects that together create a collection that highlights your personal narrative.  Which space you choose to highlight a collection depends on the type of collection, but grouping the collection in a single space gives it impact and keeps the storyline cohesive. Hallways and stairwells can work great because you have ample wall space to work with. The backdrop, wall color, and finishes chosen to display any collection is essential to keeping the attention on the collection. You want a backdrop that is additive to the experience; not one that competes with it.

LIGHT UP YOUR LIFE:

One of my favorite ways to add a unique and personalized factor to a room is lighting. I am a sucker for exquisite lighting. That doesn’t mean it has to be expensive, but it should be unique and another way to add deeper meaning to your decor. I would rather have no lighting than boring lighting or lighting that everyone has. Lighting adds feeling and ambiance to any space.  The finish and shape of a fixture and the way it illuminates your space can all add to the way your family exhibits their values and beliefs.

MEANINGFUL CONVERSATIONS:

We’ve all heard the phrase, ‘if these walls could talk;’ well, you can let your walls speak about who you are by what you hang on them.  A beautiful piece of art can be a meaningful expression of your heritage and culture.  Whether it is a painting from your native country, photographs from places you’ve traveled, or something you discovered that showcases colors and ideas that are important to you, displaying meaningful artwork is a way to add beauty and significance to every space in your home.

My favorite part of my job is getting to know my clients and what their personal narrative and culture is and finding creative solutions to display that in their home.  I enjoy taking the time to peel back the layers of who they are and how they live to help translate their ideas into a functional lived reality that feels true to them and their story.

Maximalist Vs. Minimalist: A Conversation with Designer Kathy Anderson

Posted on by dhopkins

There is no place like a home that functions for you on every level.  Does your current interior design reflect you and the way you want to live? Do you prefer simple lines and a monochromatic color scheme, following the minimalism trend? Or do you prefer something more bold, bright and colorful, leaning toward a maximalist approach?  Kathy Anderson, founder and principal designer of Eklektik Interiors, takes a very personal and customized approach to her designs.  She believes there is room for both minimalist and maximalist persuasions in a home, and she is a master at blending the lines between styles.

Minimalism:

“Great design can be lost with all of the ‘stuff’ we surround ourselves with,” Anderson explains.  Minimalism is focused on what is absolute in terms of need and function.  It simplifies your life and your home by eliminating the unnecessary visual noise and highlighting a few great pieces. “When a space is beautifully designed and curated,” Anderson says, “less can definitely be more.”

Her favorite part of incorporating minimalism:  Helping clients go thru their belongings and simplifying their lives by keeping only those items that really mean something. Thoughtful curation tells a meaningful story.

Her favorite space for minimalist design:  I prefer a minimalist approach in personal and intimate spaces. I think that is important because everyone needs a place to retreat to find solace and comfort from the hectic world that we live in.

Maximalism:

“Modern Maximalism is more about personalization than perfection,” says Anderson. Maximalism is comfortable and livable without being messy or random.  There is an art to it.  It is dramatic, colorful, and outside the box, but is not cluttered, garish, or overly done.  A lot of books, art, accessories, fabrics, and textures can be displayed with purpose and thought in a personalized style that is dramatic and fun. “That’s the great thing about design,” says Anderson. “Rules are made to be broken but with careful consideration. There can be a fine line between fabulous and frightful.”

Her favorite part of incorporating maximalism:  Solidifying the space with rich color for a dramatic background to pop the bright colors, textures, and collectibles.

Her favorite space for maximalist design:  Living spaces, a study, or a home bar are fun places to add color and showcase curated collections.  These spaces can function for gathering and spending time with family and friends, while also telling a client’s unique story.

The most important part of Anderson’s job is highlighting the function of a space and aligning it with the lifestyle of each client. “That is what I love about what I do,” says Anderson,  “every engagement is different because every client is different. They are each unique in how they live, what makes them tick, and what brings them joy.” Whether a client prefers a minimalist or maximalist approach or a combination of both, Anderson strives to satisfy each client’s needs so their homes enrich their lives.

The Importance of Home: What 2020 has Helped us Discover in Home Design

Posted on by dhopkins

Reflecting on all that we have faced with the beginning of a new decade, a pandemic, a presidential election, social unrest, and natural disasters, one thing keeps coming into focus: the importance of home. 2020 indeed has had its share of challenges, but because of those challenges, we have all had the opportunity to reprioritize and discover what is truly essential in our lives.  When the pandemic hit and we all stayed home, our thoughts focused very quickly to what the word ‘home’ meant to each of us personally.

Home has taken on new importance as it literally has become our place of refuge, safety, and peace, and with this focus has come new trends in home design.  As our homes quickly became our everything, it has also become very important to have more defined spaces for family gathering, personal renewal, work, and entertaining. Looking into 2021,  here are some of the home design trends that we are seeing as a result of living through 2020.

Kitchen:

Homes are really all about the kitchen.  It is where life centers.  A custom kitchen, designed to cater to the way you cook, eat, and gather, will add value to your home and your life.  Because the kitchen has become the hub of social activity even more, we’ve seen a continued trend in open floorplan kitchen renovations, which include many amenities such as islands, multiple sinks, larger refrigerators, and other customized appliances.  Beautiful countertops, fabulous hardware, and an exquisite lighting plan are also priorities in the kitchen. With a new warmth and comfort associated with these trends, the kitchen becomes a pseudo second family room.

Kitchen Favorite:  Natural stone countertops and walls create a beautiful focal point.  Quartzite is a fabulous option for natural materials. There are also some amazing porcelains on the market that are not only beautiful but are a ‘work horse.’  I, personally, am not a fan of marble in the kitchen. I know there is a lot of debate on this, and yes, marble is absolutely gorgeous and yes, it will patina over time, but typically, a LONG time. There is a big maintenance issue and if your kitchen is just for ‘show’, then go for it. But if you really live in your kitchen, I would suggest other products that perform much better and are easier to live with.

Bathroom:

With the stress and chaos that we all live with, a resurgence of creating a space to renew and relax is essential for self-care.  Bathrooms are an interesting space to design because they are so private.  This allows for a lot of creativity in the aesthetics.  A well-planned bathroom, catered to the way each client personally finds ways to renew and refresh, can serve as a spa-like retreat.  Statement slabs in the shower, mixed with different tiles and textures and plumbing finishes, can bring an elegance that creates a peaceful haven to start and end your day.

Bathroom Favorite:  Having a beautiful, comfortable bathtub available creates space for effortless relaxation that is not replicated by any other home amenity.

Home Office:

As the majority of the workforce moved home this spring, spaces that had served other purposes, were quickly transformed into home offices.  We are seeing a trend now to design these work from home spaces to be organized, functional, and also fun, as you add personality to the space you spend so much time in.  2020 has given us all the gift of time at home to analyze your life, goals, and what you are ultimately wanting for your own personal space. Office spaces tend to be a catch-all and sometimes chaotic.  Letting go of “things” and holding onto just a few statement pieces that you love can give you a sense of purpose and freedom as your home meets every need you have. Simplify your life and your home. You will be happier for it.

Home Office Favorite: Layered lighting is functional and fabulous.  Lighting is so important in an office space.  Window and lighting placement make a huge difference in the look, feel, and usability of a space.  Including a designer as early as possible in the construction or renovation planning process is highly recommended, as the details decided in the earliest phases of design determine the final aesthetic and functional feel of a space.

Home Bar Area:

When remodeling, more homeowners are wanting to incorporate a bar area into their home. With the trend of entertaining at home becoming more commonplace, along with the recent “stay at home” mandates around the globe, specialty spaces in the home set aside for entertaining have been utilized more than ever. Whether that is a wine storage space, a bar or beverage serving area, or a full-on lounge, the typical homeowner is looking to have that special place in their home to “belly up to the bar!”

Interior designers love this trend in home design because it offers an opportunity to utilize significant spaces for practical needs, while also offering the chance to create an unexpected and exciting focal point. A beverage serving area can add beauty and function to your home and can be utilized not only for intimate personal or family time but for entertaining clients or friends.

Bar Area Favorite: Creative storage options can add visual interest to the space.  A flashy or exotic backsplash is usually a good place to start. Shelves that hold liquor or beautiful wine racks add to the decor, while below the counter cabinets can hide various bar tools and appliances to keep the area uncluttered. Storing glasses is best when in a closed cabinet and even better if that door has glass and lighting on the inside for drama.

Looking ahead:  Even as we hope life will soon return to ‘normal,’ we can be grateful for what we have gained this year in wisdom as we have refocused our priorities.  Here is to looking forward to 2021, and to holding on to this new-found focus, hoping it will remain as we take more time to savor every aspect of life at home.

Home Bar Design: Adding An At-Home Beverage Center

Posted on by dhopkins
Photo Description: This pass-through working bar is an artistic and dramatic focal point

 

By Stephanie Vaughan, Eklektik Interiors Designer

When remodeling, more homeowners are wanting to incorporate a bar area into their home. With the trend of entertaining at home becoming more commonplace, along with the recent “stay at home” mandates around the globe, specialty spaces in the home set aside for entertaining have been utilized more than ever. Whether that is a wine storage space, a bar or beverage serving area, or a full-on lounge, the typical homeowner is looking to have that special place in their home to “belly up to the bar!”

Interior designers love this trend in home design because it offers an opportunity to utilize significant spaces for practical needs, while also offering the chance to create an unexpected and exciting focal point. A beverage serving area can add beauty and function to your home and can be utilized not only for intimate personal or family time but for entertaining clients or friends.

What this space looks like is different for every homeowner, but incorporating a designer’s eye and input on different areas in your home that could be transformed into a bar space or wine storage can save you a lot of time and money and give you a working plan to move forward. Most homes have hidden nooks, which often go unnoticed by the homeowner, that would make perfect points of interest. An empty wall in a dining room, a cabinet section in your kitchen, or the space under your stairs can become something new and exciting like a wine display or full-service bar.

Asking the right questions before you begin a renovation project will ensure that your space is designed according to your needs and lifestyle. Here are a few questions to ask to begin the design process. How do I want to use this space and how can this add to my home’s function? Think about how you are going to use it and how to get the best bang for the buck. If you don’t really drink wine, why spend money and space on wine storage. Make it a liquor bar instead. If you don’t drink liquor, then concentrate on wine and all the bells and whistles you can fit into the space. Also consider, if I make this a focal point, who will see it the most? Will it be visible enough to really create a visually interesting space? For instance, if it’s going inside the pantry it should be designed for utility, but if it’s going in the living area or along an entry wall, it definitely should make a statement.

Important elements to consider in your design that add to the function but also the fabulous:

• COUNTERTOPS: Selecting durable countertops for preparing glasses of your favorite elixir, such as quartz or porcelain, add beauty and won’t stain from citrus acids or wine spills.

• LIGHTING: Lighting is very important and can create drama and effect in your new focal point.

• LAYOUT and STORAGE: A flashy or exotic backsplash is usually a good place to start in adding some interest. Storage can be hidden or used as display to add to the feel of the space. Shelves that hold liquor or beautiful wine racks add to the decor, while below the counter cabinets can hide various bar tools and appliances to keep the area uncluttered. Storing glasses is best when in a closed cabinet and even better if that door has glass and lighting on the inside for drama.

• APPLIANCES: A wine chiller with dual temp settings that will keep your reds at the perfect 65 degrees and your whites at 45-50. Depending on the space available, this could be under the counter or a tall unit for maximum storage. An ice maker and a sink are great additions if space and budget allow. You may also consider a drawer dishwasher that is great for washing glasses. One of the newest appliances that is a wine enthusiast ‘must-have’ is a wine saver/dispenser. It holds 4-6 bottles of open wine, keeping it fresh for days after opening and dispenses it into your glass when you push the button.

Originally published in the Houston Chronicle on July 4, 2020  https://www.chron.com/news/article/GHBA-Remodelers-Council-Home-bar-design-15382216.php 

Lasting Kitchen Trends:  Kitchen design that will endure longer than the decade

Posted on by dhopkins

Whether you are a gourmet cook or all about the microwave, everyone seems to gather in the kitchen. It’s the center for snacking, eating, gathering and socializing.  As we start a new year and a new decade, there are some trends in kitchen renovations that will add value, function, and timeless beauty to the heart and soul of your home.

The most frequent requests we get from clients renovating their kitchen is that they would like to maximize storage and design their space for entertaining, while incorporating convenience and style. Trends we’ve seen that cater to these requirements and that will carry through the decade include more amenities such as larger or double islands, workstation sinks, fancy lighting, larger refrigerators and other beautiful integrated appliances. With the heightened warmth and comfort associated with these conveniences, your kitchen will become a pseudo second family room.

When designing your kitchen, start with the end in mind.  Thinking about what is most important to you and your expectations of the space will help you know where to focus your budget.  As a designer, we ask about a client’s expectations of the space and look at the overall layout in terms of location of appliances and storage requirements.  We look at function and take into account useable heights for countertops and sinks. We also pay special attention to finding the best finish materials and anything else that we can add that showcase your personality and enrich your living experiences.

Because a kitchen is such a high traffic, highly used room in your home, putting your money into quality appliances and plumbing really pays off.  Performance countertops are also a wise investment as they add lasting beauty and function. With your remaining budget, it is fun to add more luxury to your kitchen with beautiful contemporary products like custom designed vent hoods, galley workstation sinks, induction cooktops and integrated appliances in which the appliances appear to be part of the cabinetry.  Some other favorite new kitchen conveniences are pop up outlets installed in your countertops or drawers for electronics, lighting installed in the cabinetry, instant hot and cold taps and refrigerated drawers.

Whatever your lifestyle, there are so many new products and materials available that add function and beauty to a well-designed kitchen area that will last the test of time.

Originally published in the Houston Chronicle on Feb. 16

How Italy Taught Me to Refute Throw Away Culture

Posted on by dhopkins

Before my last year of college, I had the opportunity to spend my summer studying abroad in Florence, Italy. I was more than excited to spend the summer in my dream locale, but little did I know I would be experiencing a culture that would help shape my style as a designer. I had studied most of the famously historic architecture that the country had to offer, but being able to see the structures in person, walk through them, be surrounded by them, and touch their walls, brought a whole new sense of meaning to my thoughts on design. It wasn’t just the famous buildings, like the Duomo and Palazzos, that changed my perspective, but the buildings I saw everyday as I walked through the narrow city streets. The centuries old buildings that are now being used as apartments, restaurants, schools, and shops were what really opened my eyes to a different way of living.

Shops and restaurants
Shops and restaurants are found below apartments with original architecture.

In America we currently exist in a “throw away” culture, meaning most things we use everyday are not meant to last. We are so accustomed to throwing something away when it has served its purpose or when the next new shiny thing on the market has come along. It’s not just iPhones and material objects that we upgrade every few years but also things that are meant to last, like cars, houses, and buildings. The reason for this is partially due to the lack of quality in the initial construction of these things, but it is also because of our mindset of wanting everything to be new and representative of the current year. This “throw away” culture has allowed for many buildings and homes to be torn down, only to be replaced by new and modern designs. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for modern design and function, but I don’t appreciate how our society views older things as useless and ugly. In the design industry we should be striving to create things that will not only be functional, but will also stand strong to stand the test of time.

The Duomo
The Duomo was undergoing construction during my time in Florence. It undergoes regular maintenance to keep the exterior looking as it originally did the 1400s.

When talking about “throw away” culture, Italians couldn’t be any more opposite. They built with a purpose of creating lasting architecture and they’ve clearly succeeded. Construction on the Florence Cathedral and Duomo began in 1296 and wasn’t completed until 1436. The architects and workers took plenty of time to have the structure completed in a way that would last centuries, which it has. The building that my school resided in was converted from a centuries old apartment style home. Even the basement apartment that I lived in was from the early 1900’s and had been recently updated. Despite the updates being made on these types of apartment buildings, the original architecture and style is still able to shine through. Italians celebrate their history and the architecture that goes along with it. They are constantly surrounded by their heritage through the buildings they work, dine, and live in. This is the type of culture that inspires me when I look at designing for our clients, specifically with remodels.

We do a lot of remodels here at Eklektik, and we get clients who either want to totally gut the space and start new or ones who want to keep existing elements of the home. More often than not though, they are on the side of totally gutting the space. I would like to inspire our clients to think about what aspects of their home originally drew them towards purchasing it—which elements they fell in love with. Then it’s our job to figure out how to incorporate those existing elements into the new design. Even if it’s something as simple as the existing molding or built in shelving, these elements can maintain the original charm that the home has to offer.

Historic architecture and charm
A beautiful example of a modern apartment home with historic architecture and charm.

We also do plenty of new construction at Eklektik, where we work with builders and/or a client from the ground up. In these instances we can utilize this same idea of refuting throw away culture, by building with a purpose to last. This means we need to design with the future in mind. What current trends will still work in the years to come? What materials will last for years without needing to be replaced or upgraded? These are the questions we consider when designing new builds.

This idea of refuting throw away culture won’t be accepted by everyone, but we can progress the movement by encouraging homeowners to preserve some of the initial design brought to life by the original architects and by designing and building quality, lasting structures. I’m thankful for my experience in Italy and how it opened my eyes to a new culture with new ways of thinking and living. Specifically how it taught me to appreciate the care and detail that goes into creating beautiful lasting architecture. One day I hope to own a home that has been thoughtfully designed, with unique characteristics of the time in which it was built, but that allows me to meld in my own style seamlessly.