The Wallpaper Edition

As you've probably noticed, I am no stranger to color and pattern. I can't think of a better way to incorporate color in a room than wallpaper. Some of you might cringe at the thought of the grape and vine wallpaper from the kitchen of your childhood home but rest assured we make wallpaper classy, stylish, and fun!

IMPACT IN A SMALL SPACE

A smaller space like a powder room, pantry, or closet is a great place to get more bang for your buck. A common misconception is that you should go neutral and light in a small space. But wallpaper can really shine as all-over artwork across the walls if everything around it is kept simple. Don't forget to consider it for the back of bookcases, as well.

LOOK UP!

Ceilings rarely get the attention they deserve which is why wallpaper is the perfect way to emphasize height, architectural detail, or simply that WOW factor. I mean how many people are brave enough for a wallpapered ceiling? Adding pattern and color on the ceiling polishes off a room like your favorite accessory.

FOR THE COLOR-WARY

Too much color? Don't worry, I know when to tone it down and cater to lovers of a muted yet dramatic style. Adding a classic print injects a lively dose of movement to the monochromatic space.

FOR THE BOLD & PLAYFUL

You're still with me? Good. Spaces filled with cabinetry are a great place to incorporate color on the cabinets AND walls. Choosing these two bold colors—lime green cabinets and pink-red printed wallpaper—creates a lively laundry room. Think it'll grow old? Do it right the first time and it'll provide long lasting joy.

TWO-FOR-ONE

Wallpapering these two rooms with straight-though sightlines adds depth to the space. We took the plunge with a contrasting bold organic pattern and softer geometric pattern that are seen together in this angle. It gives just the right amount of visual interest while still keeping in the same color family for cohesion.

MORE INSPIRATION …

So what do you think? Ready to take the plunge and incorporate wallpaper into your space? I'm here to tell you it can take a space from drab to fab.

A Garage-to-Office Transformation... full of color, art, and life.

Do you have space in your home (or garage) that doesn't seem to have a purpose? Lindsay of TealHaus Strategies found herself needing an office space for her growing company. Tackling this project, we knew we would keep it art-focused and full of color for our fellow creative.

1. WORK WITH YOUR SURROUNDINGS, NOT AGAINST THEM
This office was created in a garage—no way around that fact. So, we decided to lean into the existing structure instead of fighting it. We created a custom all-window garage door so that she'll have plenty of light in the smaller space.

2. BRING ON THE ART!
I cannot talk enough about the importance of building a room that embraces artwork that you love. If you're going to be in your office (or your living room or your kitchen) for most of your day, you should surround yourself with something that brings you joy.

3. EMBRACE THE KNICK KNACKS
Shelves are meant to be filled, not simply dust collectors. And you want to know the secret to a beautiful collection? It's going to take years of curation—it won't happen overnight. But that's great news! You get to collect small knick knacks that bring you happiness over time, so it's a manageable expense.

Pro tip: look to vary your height and visual 'weight' for a balanced arrangement

Below are some more photos of the fun and colorful space

Lindsay may be the only person more excited about this finished design than we are. We are happiest when our clients are delighted! As always, if you're feeling inspired, but don't know where to start: drop us a line below!

It's not too late to enjoy the pool!

Pool season might be winding down, but it's certainly not too late for you (and your dog) to enjoy your (or your neighbor's) pool! Chewie, pictured above, is having the time of his life in Sallie Holder's newly completed backyard oasis designed by yours truly in collaboration with Pearce B Designs. Below are some of our favorite ideas to consider when sprucing up your backyard to use year-round.

1. PRIVACY FENCE

Love your neighbors, but don't want them to see you at hosting your girls' night? I don't blame you! It might be time to invest in a privacy fence for peace of mind, protection from the elements, and improved curb appeal.

You don't always have to go for the expected horizontal wooden fence. Mix it up with a bold horizontal design. And don't forget to consider drainage when installing your new fence.

2. STAY SHADY

Relax with a reclined lounge chair under the protection of an umbrella or tree. And don't forget to apply SPF even as the weather gets cooler.

A few of my favorite lounge chair options at different price points are linked below:

3. IGNITE A CONVER-SATION

A central gathering place for friends is crucial. Even better? Add a firepit into the mix so you can create memories roasting marshmallows and telling stories. The coziness from the fire is a great way to keep the outdoor space alive as we shift into the fall season.

4. BUILD THAT POOL!

If you have the space and feel ready to take the plunge, build your dream pool! You should start reaching out to pool building companies now, as the waitlist for pools has skyrocketed in the last two years. I recommend you take a minute to consider decking material (and how hot it gets!), depth of the water, and the age of the kiddos that'll use it. For example, a few people have mentioned that they want a shallow pool so they could always stand up. But you should keep in mind young kids want to cannonball in and play sharks and minnows in a deeper depth.

Let's start at the beginning

We started with a pair of framed windows and created a kitchen that reflects the owners’ style in this charming West Village cottage. Timeless finishes, countertops, lighting, appliances, and art come together to meld old and new in this center of the home.