Design Style #4 Transitional Chic

Posted on Categories Remodeling
Introducing particular interior design styles into your home makes a strong statement about your personality and lifestyle.  That’s why selecting your perfect design style – one that truly reflects the way you really want to live – is so important. Here is number 4 on the list of Interior Design Styles. Will this style give your home the distinctive look you’re after?
  • Your design style combines a little traditional with a contemporary flair – which evokes a comfortable and classic embience.
  • The union of these two styles creates a classic and timeless design for your entire family to enjoy.
  • The focus here is on comfort and practicality while at the same time combining both a masculine and feminine vibe.
  • The blending of curves and straight lines in your furniture creates a great sense of balance. 
  • You love texture and are partial to leathers, ultra-suedes and nubby chenilles –anything soft to the touch. (Visit www.glamorousfabrics.com for some extraordinary fabrics at unbelievable savings).
  • A monochromatic color scheme is often punched up with the introduction of warm browns and chocolate wood tones. 
  • You tend to keep accessories to a minimum yet love to display your photos and artwork framed in silver or nickel finishes for that crisp clean look. This adds a little added sparkle to your space. 
  • Neutral wood flooring and muted colored sisals and Berber carpeting in warmer tones tend to anchor the overall space.
If this style speaks to you – then consider your overall design style – Transitional Chic. I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

10 Proven Ways To Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal

Posted on Categories Remodeling1 Comment on 10 Proven Ways To Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal
Impressions are everything and you don’t have to be a real estate agent to know that a home with immense curb appeal is what makes potential buyers bite and at the same time gives us homeowners a deep sense of pride in our most valued possession. Whether you’re planning to sell, or live there for years to come – if you want your home noticed, here are some projects that will provide a good return on investment at any time. 1.   Define A Clear Pathway. Clearly define a path to your front door, which leads into your home.  Make sure to rid your pathway of any weeds poking through the cracks and line your path with some natural elements to draw people in. 2.  Upgrade Your Front Door. Installing a new front door will instantly enhance your home’s façade and sets a tone for what lies beyond.  Make sure the new door compliments your home’s architecture, and if at all possible introduce some glass either within the door itself, a transom above or sidelights to the side.  Consider painting the new door red or black for some added drama – and to draw some positive energy in. 3.  Update Old Windows. If your windows are single pane energy wasters it’s time to replace them with new energy efficient ones. Windows associated with the Energy Star label will save you money throughout the year and keep you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.  Dress up these new windows by adding some elegant window boxes with your favorite plants and flowers for a burst of color. 4.   Replace Your Siding. If your siding is dated or damaged then it’s time to update it.  Replacing your siding is among the least costly upgrades you can make to your home and immediately boosts your home’s appeal.  It’s available in a variety of colors and styles and will complement any home style. 5.  Add a Porch or Deck. Those charming front porches from years ago are back in vogue and decks, which have remained popular throughout the years, have evolved into multi-leveled outdoor living spaces complete with kitchens, spas and fire-pits.  So whether you’re adding a porch, patio or deck onto your existing home, for a seamless transition make sure to get professional design help. 6.  Architectural Details. If the front of your home is void of details, then create some!  Draw attention to your entryway by adding some chunky moldings.  Create some visual interest by installing new window trims and shutters. You may even consider incorporating a charming new fence, trellis, or water feature. 7.  Landscaping. Adding shrubs, flowers or container gardens add instant impact to your front yard.  Create an inviting entrance by investing in a pair of architectural pots, fill them with flowering plants, and place them on the landing flanking the front door.  Dig a new planting bed for flowers along the driveway or in front of your house. 8.  Roofing. Your roof could potentially cover anywhere from 40%-60% of your home’s overall visual appearance, so you want to make sure it’s in good condition.  If any of the shingles need to be replaced then do so.  If you’re replacing the roof select a new roofing material that compliments the style of your home. 9.  Lighting. Design a sense of drama by adding some energy efficient low LED or solar powered garden lights along your pathway and driveway, and highlight your home by accenting the façade with multiple layers of lighting. Include a pair of wall sconces flanking the front door and invest in quality finishes.  Creating a welcoming glow throughout your property will draw your guests (or potential buyers) in. 10.  Fresh Paint. If the paint on your house looks gray, cracked and weathered then it’s time for a fresh coat of paint.  Either tackle it yourself, or hire a professional to help.    If cost and time are factors simply paint out the front door, window trims, shutters and any fencing in a fresh new color. Oh and don’t forget to adorn your revamped exterior with some fabulous new jewelry!  New house numbers, door handles and a mailbox will give your exterior that finished and cohesive look. I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Design Style #3 – Contemporary Cool

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design
In the last two posts I spoke about the “typical” interior design styles of both Country Casual and Traditional Elegance.  If the unfettered colorful look of Country Casual, or the more ornate style of Traditional Elegance doesn’t speak to your personality – maybe this interior design will. Do these design characteristics and interior details appeal to you?
  • Your design style is nothing short of sleek and chic.  Slightly warmer than “modern” this style allows for greater personal interpretation the modern theme.
  • You enjoy the subtle sophistication and uncluttered atmosphere that is now your signature style.
  • Your overall architectural space is the true highlight – rather than objects and things.
  • The unadorned architectural details such as high ceilings, vast windows, exposed air ducts or the natural brick of the building is the primary focus of your home.
  • You adore the open floor plan and the linear simplicity in all design.  In your world less is more and this is why you like to keep clutter to a minimum.
  • When it comes to dressing your sleek suite, your wall colors remain neutral and act as the perfect back- drop, which offsets your simple yet elegant furniture and bold geometric accessories.
  • You love texture such as tile and stone, and are partial to natural fibers such as cotton, wool, linen, and silk.  All of these elements compliment the dark rich natural woods and concrete you’ll find scattered throughout your home.
  • Your streamlined and highly functional kitchen may even include some stainless appliances and fittings for contrast and shine.
If this sounds familiar or resonates with your personality then consider your design style – Contemporary Cool. I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Design Style #2 – Traditional Elegance

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design
This week we are continuing on with our focus on identifying your own personal design style.  This really is an important element in guiding you down the right design path when you begin to plan any home improvement project or renovation. If you’re a little confused and at all unsure about committing to a design style, do a google search on interior design quizzes and take a few! They’re fun, interactive and very insightful.  Learning your results will ultimately steer you in a direction where you can begin to do a little more research on that particular design style and spin it with an infusion of your own personality. Do these design characteristics and interior details appeal to you?
  • Your home exudes both tranquility and elegance all the while taking great pride in the understated look that you have pulled together.
  • The floor plan tends to be more compartmentalized in that rooms tend to be separated from each other and slightly more private.
  • Your furnishings brandish classic lines and restrained details, while complimenting the glossy white architectural trims, chair rails and moldings throughout your home.
  • Ceilings tend to be painted white, and at times may incorporate simple beams.
  • You favor symmetry and balance, from your placement of furniture to the pairs of accessories you display.
  • You tend to prefer a calm and predictable living environment.
  • Your love of subtle fabrics, textures and accessories create the overall warmth of your home and invite everyone in.
  • You are drawn to the bold historic color tones such as caramel browns, golds, auburn reds, and creams.
  • Combining classic overhead light fixtures, wall sconces and silk shaded lamps highlight all the beautiful collections and family photos you love to display.
If this sounds at all familiar or appealing to you then consider your design style – Traditional Elegance. I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Design With Personal Style!

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design
Everyone has a unique interior design style – and that particular style directly reflects our personalities. Getting a handle on your unique style before you begin your home renovation, addition or decorating project is all it takes to save you valuable time, money and stress down the road.  Arming yourself with this knowledge will ensure your home reflects the “true” you, and will provide every inch of your home with an underlying sense of cohesiveness that reflects your particular style and the way your family really lives. There are many different design styles and over the next few days I want to zero in on YOUR design style. Does this describe you? Your casual, relaxed and friendly personality is reflected in the warm and comfortable lived in look that you’ve created in your family home.  Whether your particular style of country is French, English or American rustic, you have a true connection to nature and the outside world.  You are drawn to all things natural, both in color and texture that embodies the overall philosophy of country living. You may like a variety of fabrics, leathers and hides intermixed throughout your home, which look fantastic against bold splashes of color.  The fabrics you love range from brightly colored floral prints, stripes and plaids and are often combined with various leathers. If this sounds familiar then consider your design style – Country Casual. I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Finding Some Extra Space – Is Looking Up!

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design
Last weekend I walked into the home improvement store to pick up a few things and I could not believe how long the lines were!  It’s spring and by all accounts it seems people are starting to work on their homes again.  More importantly homeowners are willing to invest a little more time and money into improving their quality of life. Remodeling Magazine’s 2010 “Cost vs. Value Report” shows that adding an attic bedroom has a return on investment of 83% here on the west coast.  It’s proof that increasing the amount of livable space is still important to homeowners and potential buyers – and repurposing existing space is the most cost effective way to achieve that. Whether you plan on developing this space for an additional bedroom, library, playroom or home office here are a few things to consider before you begin:
  • Always check with your local building codes before you begin the planning.
  • Make sure you have the space for an adequate and legal staircase from below to access this new space.
  • Typically most building codes require a finished clearance of 7’ – 6 “ above 50% of the floor area.  If you’re shy this height, adding some dormers and skylights will not only alleviate that situation, it will add more natural light and architectural detail to your space.
  • If this is a bedroom conversion, most codes will require an egress window of a minimum of 5.7 sq. ft.  Typically the window is your escape route in case of an emergency and must be at least 20”w x 24” high.
  • If you include a bath to the attic stack the plumbing wall with existing plumbing below.
  • Floor joists may need to be reinforced to support the weight of the furniture, fixtures (if a bath is added) and people.
By developing this space and building it to code, it will be included in your overall square footage when you go to sell and increase the value of your home. I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

An Outdoor Lover’s Paradise

Posted on Categories Renovations
Summer is just around the corner and everyone is anxious to spend some serious time outside.  Here in Southern California warm summer weather tends to last a good 7 months or so  – substantially longer than many other parts of the country – so outdoor living is a way of life around here. A couple of weeks ago I wrote about the 7 Tips To Consider When Designing Your Ultimate Outdoor Escape.  And since I’m now in the midst of planning a charming outdoor living space for my client that will compliment the new interior space, I thought it would be helpful to provide you with some added details to help you transform your yard into a beautiful outdoor paradise this summer. Designate Zones That Reflects Your Family’s Lifestyle.
  • Know the activities that you want your outdoor space to have.
  • Playing: Sports Court, grassy area or swing set.
  • Lounging: Pool and/or spa, chairs and chaises or built-ins.
  • Cooking: Outdoor kitchen or simple barbeque area.
  • Entertaining/Dining; Dining area, fireplace or firepit.
  • Elevated deck or patio.
Outdoor Kitchen Details.
  • If at all possible and layout allows, plan your outdoor cooking areas as close to your indoor kitchen as possible. A shorter distance of travel transporting food back and forth will make outdoor entertaining easier.
  • Connect your grill to a permanent fuel line and avoid those propane tanks all together.
  • If budget and space allows,  keep the indoor/outdoor traffic to a minimum and install a sink, refrigerator and even dishwasher, and extra space to store your outdoor tableware.
Built-Ins.
  • If space is at a premium build in your seating.
  • Nestle a banquette-like sofa into your deck or patio, and build them out of the same decking material to give them a more architectural and integral appearance.  Provide storage below for seat cushions and pillows.
Don’t Forget the Shade.
  • For protection from the mid-day sun and those long hot days – add a trellis or pergola overhead. Umbrellas and awnings will also do the trick and shade you and your guests as well.
  • Wrap vines or bougainvillea up the trellis or pergola for some additional shade cover and color as well.
Extend The Summer.
  • If you feel that summer is just flying by, extend the season by designing a permanent outdoor fireplace, firepit and patio heaters to keep you warm during the cooler autumn temperatures.
I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

More of My Favorite Things

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design2 Comments on More of My Favorite Things
Last week I shared a few of my favorite products, materials and design trends with you.  There are so many beautiful and creative ways to solve design dilemmas and many fabulous products are available to you.  You just need to know where to find them. Doors Inside And Out. Whether you’re looking for interior doors, closet doors or space dividers for your home the Sliding Door Co. offers beautiful contemporary and space saving solutions available in multiple finishes and designs.  Choose from frosted, laminated, clear or linen glass to create a clean, sophisticated and multi-functional atmosphere. www.slidingdoorco.com. For a striking exterior door visit www.neoporte.com.  Neoporte fabricates stunning exterior stainless steel doors customized to fit your home’s architecture and style at the same time providing you with extra home security.  This first impression will distinguish your home from the rest.  Neoporte is also a certified member of the U.S. Green Building Council. Countertops. I love to specify Quartz surfaces for many of my kitchen renovations.  Why?  They are a highly durable, practical, cleaner and safer product compared to other natural stone materials.  Quartz fabricates beautifully – is stain, scratch and heat resistant and is available in exquisite colors and finishes making it perfect surface for any home renovation project – traditional or contemporary.  www.caesarstoneus.com. Screen Saver. As I wandered through the shops and galleries on Friday enjoying “The Legends of La Cienega” – Celebrate Hollywood I fell in love with an exquisite set of Moroccan Screens that were included in a vignette designed by Amy Wells, the set decorator of Madmen.  Find your inspiration at www.1stdibs.com. Beautify Your Bath. Infuse instant glamour and sophistication to your bath with these unique and striking Indian cotton shower curtains.  Choose from five different exquisite colors and patterns to compliment your style. www.johnrobshaw.com.  The Stone shower curtain is my favorite. I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Time To Create The Bath You’ve Always Wanted

Posted on Categories Remodeling2 Comments on Time To Create The Bath You’ve Always Wanted
With everyone’s hectic lifestyle, the bathroom is the one place to escape from it all to retreat and relax. Whether you’re renovating a main floor powder room, the kids’ Jack and Jill, or your master bath, you want to make sure you create that sanctuary that provides you with a sense of peace you crave at the beginning and end of the day. We could typically spend up to 7 hours a week lounging in the bath, steaming in our showers, grooming, cleansing and applying makeup.  This is a room to be lived in rather than just pass through and that’s why it requires such careful attention. These spaces tend to be among the costliest rooms to renovate. That’s why it’s important to realize it’s less about trends and more about style. Whether remodeling or adding on a new bath, think about all those amenities you might have wanted in your bathroom but never had. Now’s your chance. Read the magazines, search online, and visit your bath supply showrooms for wonderful inspirational ideas. Ideally bedrooms and baths should be separated visually from the main working areas of your house. At least one guest bath or powder room should be easily accessible from the kitchen and family room area of your home. The master bath should be large enough to fit an oversized tub, generously sized shower, and double vanity sinks—and as many other bells and whistles to provide you with the Zen-like atmosphere you crave. If you’re faced with any of these issues in your own home then maybe it’s time to think about correcting these old problems by creating new solutions. Ask Yourself These Questions:
  • Are you short a powder room, and right now your guests use your main bath?
  • Is your tiny main bath too cramped and cluttered for a family of four?
  • Does your sink and combination bath/shower drip and leak and just doesn’t work well anymore?
  • When your bathroom door is kept open, can you see the toilet from down the hallway? (Yuck)
  • Can you hear everything in your current powder room—there’s no privacy or sound insulation?
  • Are you still in love with the pink tub, toilet and sink – or is it time to let it go?
  • Are you struggling with insufficient storage and unable to organize all your products and supplies?
  • Is the moisture level is too high and the overwhelming scent of mildew proving to be more than you can handle?
Are you now ready to create new solutions? I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

These Are a Few of My Favorite Things!

Posted on Categories Architectural Interior Design
Every day I receive emails about product trends, trade sources, designers, and artisans of every kind.  They keeping me abreast of the current design trends and styles and I wanted to share my top 5 with you. 1. Paint. No matter how large or small the project, I always specify Benjamin Moore paints. Their quality and color selections are ideal for any interior or exterior home renovation project.  One of their best interior paint products is their low VOC Aura paint.  It’s washable in any sheen due to its color lock technology, never needs more than two coats even with the darkest colors and best of all it’s eco-friendly!  www.benjaminmoore.com/Aura. 2.  Bathroom Innovation. I love the idea of this highly practical, sleek and innovative sink and water closet combination (W+W). It’s sophisticated design incorporates both a sink and toilet into one integral unit, saves both water and space, and filters the grey water from the basin and re-uses it in the toilet system.  If the tank doesn’t have enough water – it will add more!  How smart is that?  www.roca.com.es/w+w/w+w/en/index.html. 3.  Kitchen Brilliance. What would you say if you could refrigerate and cook your dinner remotely – from your cell phone or internet – from anywhere, and have your meal cooked to perfection the moment you walked through the door? www.tmio.com.  These state-of the-art stainless steel wall ovens provide all the Jetson-like conveniences along with exceptional design and performance. 4.  Glass Walls. Architecturally laminated glass panels (straight or curved) are inspired by the colors and textures of nature, and embedded with everything from leaves to bamboo and flowers, creating a unique panel every time.  Yet another green and eco-chic product that can be fabricated for walls, glass floors or even your kitchen table.  The sky is the limit with these spectacular architectural glass panels.  www.livinglass.com. 5.  A Respectable Lamp. This solar powered lamp from IKEA is effective, inexpensive and a colorful addition to any kids’ rooms.  It charges the LED lamp during the day and will provide 3 hours of light at night.  Choose from red, orange, yellow, green and blue – for $20 you can’t go wrong! I’m ordering a green one for my daughter’s room.  www.ikea.com/en/catalogue/products/90154371. I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.