Real Estate Design Solutions - Commercial Space Design

This blog post explores various strategies employed by kitchen and bath design firms to create inspiring showrooms that effectively showcase their talents and product offerings to clients. It features insights from several design firms across different locations, highlighting their unique approaches to showroom design and client engagement. Marvista Design + Build in Pittsburgh, PA, emphasizes a clean and uncluttered aesthetic in its 2,500-sq.-ft. showroom. Michael Jacobs, the president, designed the finish selection room to be tidy, with samples neatly stored away, preventing clients from feeling overwhelmed. A key feature is the tunable lighting system, designed by a Los Angeles-based expert, which allows designers to adjust the color temperature to match a client's home, thereby eliminating the need for clients to take samples home. The showroom also includes diverse kitchen and bath displays, like a white and gray kitchen for older homes and a 'Posh Prohibition' bar showcasing updated cabinetry for traditional settings. Functional elements such as motorized shelves and paneled appliances are incorporated to inspire clients. The bathroom display, inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater, features a walnut vanity and unique tile work, serving as a luxurious public restroom. The Kitchen Bin in Winfield, NY, founded by Debbie U. Pugh, stands out with its unique location inside an old grain bin. This unconventional structure draws in curious visitors, offering a memorable experience. The 1,500-square-foot interior boasts 30-foot ceilings and a curved staircase leading to a loft with flooring and tile samples. Pugh's showroom maximizes product display by showcasing a full kitchen with multiple paint colors, stains, door styles, hardware options, and organizational accessories. An adjacent espresso bar adds to the inviting atmosphere. The presentation room features door samples from various manufacturers, including a local custom cabinet maker, and custom-designed hardware selection boards. Many displays are fully operational, creating a home-like environment where clients can relax by a fireplace, enjoy a cappuccino, and visualize their designs on a large-screen TV. The showroom is designed for potential future use as a guest space or vacation rental, highlighting its versatility. JM Kitchen & Bath Design, with a 45-year history in the Denver, CO area, opened two new showrooms in Arvada, CO, and Colorado Springs. The 3,500-sq.-ft. Arvada location, situated in a busy outdoor mall, was built from scratch, offering flexibility in designing consultation rooms and working spaces. Jason Price, CEO, noted that the full-sized, fully staged, and equipped displays, including five kitchens, allow visitors to visualize options in a realistic setting. Many displays feature working appliances, enabling the company to host events with chefs, demonstrating functionality in an intimate, no-pressure environment. The showroom presents a diversity of colors, styles, and budget options, from quarter-sawn walnut and metallic acrylic cabinets to natural rustic alder. The emphasis is on forward-thinking design, showcasing both current and future trends. Like Marvista, JM Kitchen & Bath avoids cluttered sample displays, encouraging clients to envision their ideal spaces. DesignCraft Kitchen & Bath expanded its presence with a new 1,900-sq.-ft. showroom in Brentwood, TN, complementing its Tampa, FL location. Tracy Urso, CFO and interior designer, identified a need for comprehensive remodeling services in the Nashville area, where many homes built 15-20 years ago are due for renovation. The Brentwood showroom features two kitchens with two-tone cabinets and quartz countertops. Urso particularly highlights the bath display, which incorporates a full slab of quartz for an accent shower wall and floating vanity countertop, enhanced by deep black and gold veins. Matte black fixtures and brass accents complement the design. The selection room provides a one-stop-shop experience with cabinetry, hardware, and tile samples, and a large-screen television for real-time design visualization. Urso's office also serves as a display for built-in cabinetry outside of kitchens and bathrooms. Jennifer Gilmer Kitchen & Bath opened a 750-sq.-ft. satellite showroom in Easton, MD, to address a local need for quality kitchen and bath design services, leveraging its established presence in Chevy Chase, MD, and Ashburn, VA. Jennifer Gilmer's personal relocation to Easton prompted the expansion. The compact space focuses on six kitchen displays, as Gilmer believes kitchen cabinets can also be considered for bathrooms. The showroom emphasizes unexpected and atypical design elements, such as a refrigerator, freezer drawers, and a coffee machine integrated into tall cabinetry, which are fully functional and used during events. Unique touches like authentic vintage lights, a reclaimed chestnut countertop, and solid wood live-edge shelves are incorporated to inspire clients and demonstrate the firm's ability to create custom, beautiful kitchens. #ShowroomDesign #KitchenDesign #BathDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ClientExperience #DesignTrends #BusinessStrategy #RetailSpaces

Brittny Button, an interior designer and real estate investor, discusses her journey in establishing her own business and her unique design philosophy. Her passion for building, architecture, and design naturally led her to open an interior design firm, where she focuses on transforming spaces. Additionally, she realized a long-held dream by opening Button Atelier, a shop within the Agoura Antique Mart. This venture allows her to showcase and sell her collection of vintage furniture, many of which have been revitalized with new upholstery, alongside a curated selection of decorative accessories. Button's distinctive design aesthetic is deeply rooted in Old World European Classicism, with a particular fondness for Spanish architecture and Art Deco-inspired furniture. Her past projects have garnered significant recognition, being featured in prominent publications such as Architectural Digest, Vogue Living, Homes & Gardens, and Living etc. This acclaim underscores her ability to create aesthetically pleasing and functional living environments. A notable challenge she identifies in her work is the difficulty of assembling a cohesive on-site team, including project managers, contractors, and subcontractors, who fully grasp and align with her design vision. She emphasizes the importance of shared understanding, even suggesting that it is better to disengage from a project if the team is not in sync, to ensure the integrity of the final outcome. Button Atelier is envisioned as an evolving 'workshop' or 'studio,' extending beyond a traditional interior design firm, with various exciting projects anticipated for completion later in the year. When asked about local recommendations, Button suggests visiting the Pacific Design Center in LA to explore new home furnishings. For family outings, she highlights the playground at Malibu Country Mart, often combined with lunch at one of the local restaurants. She also enjoys browsing CB2 Design Shop in Malibu for new arrivals. For unwinding with friends, Soho House and Nobu in the same vicinity are her preferred spots. She acknowledges the significant impact of recent fires on the Malibu area, expressing empathy for affected families and businesses, and offering her design services at free or reduced rates to support those who have suffered losses. Button attributes much of her success and development to the influence of her parents, who fostered her artistic eye from a young age through their shared passion for collecting antiques and architectural history, particularly Art Deco. Accompanying them to flea markets and estate sales instilled in her a joy for discovering and reimagining vintage pieces, a practice she has maintained throughout her life. She recalls acquiring a vintage chandelier and mirror for her bedroom in high school, marking the beginning of her fascination with reclaimed items. Her husband, Jenson Button, is credited as a constant source of support over the past decade, granting her full creative freedom in their home renovation projects and bolstering her confidence in her design capabilities. Her four-year-old daughter, Lenny, also expresses an interest in following in her mother's footsteps, aspiring to design houses. #InteriorDesign #RealEstateInvesting #Entrepreneurship #DesignAesthetics #VintageFurniture #ArchitecturalDesign #SmallBusiness #CreativeProcess

JLL offers comprehensive strategy and design services, encompassing planning, construction, and project management, to help businesses adapt and thrive in a dynamic environment. The company's approach is centered on integrating design with strategic planning, utilizing data-driven insights to create adaptable, cost-effective environments that meet the evolving needs of the workforce while enhancing operational efficiency. This integrated methodology aims to deliver truly engaging and efficient spaces that contribute directly to business goals. JLL has a significant track record in this domain, managing over 900 million square feet for various projects and executing 30,000 projects annually. Their expertise also extends to managing more than 880 million square feet in occupancy planning and management, demonstrating their scale and experience in transforming spaces. The firm emphasizes a holistic perspective, acknowledging that a well-designed and strategically planned environment is a crucial component of achieving modern business objectives. Key areas of expertise include design, planning, construction, and project management. These services are delivered with a focus on creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functionally optimal and future-proof. By leveraging data, JLL ensures that design decisions are informed and lead to outcomes that support long-term business success and adaptability. Two client stories highlight the impact of JLL's services. In one instance, JLL provided expert, data-driven advice to a leading real estate investment, development, and management firm, helping them formulate a 'brown-to-green' strategy across three European capital cities. This project focused on unlocking the 'green premium,' indicating a move towards sustainable and environmentally conscious real estate solutions. In another case, JLL was instrumental in modernizing one of the world’s most recognizable workwear and lifestyle brands, Cat Inc., by developing a new, global store design. This initiative aimed to reignite consumer engagement with the brand, showcasing JLL's ability to create spaces that enhance customer experience and brand identity. JLL positions itself as a leader in creating innovative, intelligent, and human-centric spaces. They invite potential clients to discuss their workplace needs, offering to deliver integrated design, planning, construction, and project management services. The company's overarching philosophy is to offer a more innovative and intelligent way of approaching real estate solutions, moving beyond conventional methods to help clients achieve a brighter future through optimized spaces. #StrategyAndDesign #ProjectManagement #WorkplaceSolutions #RealEstate #OccupancyPlanning #DataDrivenInsights #ClientStories #SustainableDesign #CommercialRealEstate

The often-overlooked restroom in a retail establishment, particularly in jewelry stores, plays a crucial role in creating a complete and cohesive design experience for both clients and employees. Interior designer Leslie McGwire emphasizes that a stylish and well-decorated bathroom can make a significant statement, countering the idea that these spaces should be out of sight and out of mind. Several jewelry stores have successfully integrated their overall design concept into their restrooms, demonstrating that attention to detail in these smaller spaces can elevate the customer experience. For instance, Tanmai in Irving, TX, owned by Sanjay and Sapna Singhania, extends its elegant store theme into the restroom with gold and bronze finishes, unique wallpaper, wall-sconce lighting, sleek fixtures, and patterned-tile flooring. This design draws inspiration from architecture and design seen in Las Vegas, ensuring a seamless aesthetic throughout the establishment. Wanna Buy a Watch in West Hollywood, CA, designed by interior designer June Robinson Scott, embraces its distinctive quirkiness in the restroom. With vibrant red walls, framed prints, and a crystal chandelier, the space achieves a romantic, vintage ambiance. Owner Ken Jacobs notes that the chandelier, initially intended for disposal, became the central inspiration for the boudoir-style bathroom. Northeastern Fine Jewelry in Albany, NY, underwent a $1.3 million renovation, meticulously planned by Michael Roman of C2 Design Group. The focus on experiential design led to a restroom described as the “Wynn Hotel in Albany.” The store’s Vice President, Gregg Kelly, developed the concept based on extensive research, ensuring that the upscale and timeless aesthetic, characterized by high-end finishes and cool lighting, extends into every detail of the restroom. At Fakier Jewelers in Houma, LA, the comfortable, residential feel of the main store is seamlessly carried into the restroom. This is achieved through windows adorned with plantation shutters and floor-to-ceiling draperies, sophisticated furniture-style fixtures, and inviting, plush seating. Owner Manon Fakier collaborated with French Mix by Jennifer Dicerbo Interiors to bring this cohesive vision to life. Other examples highlight various design elements. Clarkes Jewelers in Shreveport, LA, uses colorful walls and flattering lighting to enhance the restroom experience. Coughlin Jewelers in St. Clair, MI, incorporates patterned tiles, art on the walls, and even a live plant—a suggestion from interior designer Ruth Mellergaard to add oxygen and natural air freshening. The Jewelry Design Center in Spokane, WA, makes a bold statement with a distinctive sink, interesting textures, a decorative mirror, and dramatic wall-sconce lighting. John Atencio’s Boulder, CO, location showcases a sleek and seamless restroom design that perfectly complements the store’s modern aesthetic and the jewelry designer’s signature style. Kelley Jewelers in Weatherford, OK, designed by Leslie McGwire herself, features white brick walls, large-scaled side tiles, 1-inch by 4-inch glass tile stripes, gold bar lights and faucets, and a square sink with a high-end counter, all contributing to an extra design splash with highly patterned porcelain. Sather’s Leading Jewelers in Fort Collins, CO, creates an elegant atmosphere with a gold mirror, colorful artwork, and an interesting backsplash design, offering a unique family-friendly touch with two sinks. The Diamond Center in Janesville, WI, also designed by Leslie McGwire, maintains a contemporary feel with black, gray, and white tones. Large porcelain floor tiles extend up the walls, while a streamlined black granite counter, contemporary faucet, and brushed silver horizontal mirror complete the look. Metal strap artwork further reinforces the modern design. Williams Jewelers in Englewood, CO, provides a distinct experience with separate “His and Hers” bathrooms. The women’s restroom features white porcelain tiles embedded with 1-carat Swarovski diamond-shaped crystals, a flush-mounted crystal light fixture, and sconces, creating a sparkling “wow” effect. The men’s room, in contrast, offers a masculine design with porcelain wood floors extending halfway up the wall, a decorative tile border, and a highly textured large mirror coordinating with the room’s color palette. Finally, YLANG YLANG in St. Louis achieves understated elegance with a chandelier, gold fixtures, and modern flooring. These examples collectively illustrate that the restroom, far from being a purely functional space, can be an extension of a store's brand identity and a key component in enhancing the overall customer journey and aesthetic appeal. #jewelryStoreDesign #restroomDesign #interiorDesign #retailExperience #luxuryRetail #architecturalDetails #customerExperience #designInnovation

STUDIO K's design for BIÂN, Chicago's premier 25,000-square-foot health and social club, continues to exemplify a holistic and collaborative approach three years after its inception. Located in a bi-level commercial building, BIÂN integrates fitness, recovery, nutrition, alternative therapies, socialization, and spa services, offering a comprehensive "biosphere for living." The design prioritizes supporting the provided services rather than merely serving as a backdrop for social media content, distinguishing it from facilities that focus on fleeting trends. The interiors of BIÂN eschew popular, temporary design trends in favor of a timeless aesthetic that complements the club's offerings. Karen Herold, designer and principal of STUDIO K, emphasizes the extensive use of natural materials such as wood, leather, textiles, and lime plaster, layered to create a sense of warmth and welcome. The design team addressed the challenges posed by the industrial architecture by incorporating highly textural, soft, and light materials, accented with elements of black wood and steel. A talented lighting designer contributed to washing the entire space in a soft glow, enhancing the overall ambiance. This fusion of maximalist textures with minimalist interventions results in what is described as "industrial zen," where historical elements are subtly articulated to create a visually rich yet calming environment. Upon entering BIÂN, guests are greeted by a round apothecary table, setting the tone for the journey through various programs. The design employs a neutral palette of creams, whites, and taupes, with subtle shifts and accents of inky blue furnishings and living greenery, guiding members seamlessly from one area to another. The use of different textiles, such as linen and wool, manipulates light and transparency, while variations in slatted surface treatments and wood grain patterns manage the acoustic vibrations within the rooms. Each distinct ecosystem within BIÂN is designed to cater to the specific moment while facilitating an artful transition to the next, creating a cohesive and enriching experience for members. Notable features include a 6-foot round table at the entrance, combining a white oak reception desk with a full-sized concrete sink for skincare sales. The social lounge utilizes white oak and beechwood to foster a warm and calming atmosphere, featuring a 14-foot custom communal table and a main bar finished in leather. A staircase with wood louver screens connects the social lounge to the gym and spa facilities, discreetly concealing the medical facility behind. The lower level hosts a sushi counter adjacent to the gym, characterized by blue vinyl upholstery and plaster raked columns. A sound-insulated listening room, available for rent, provides members with a private space featuring a specialty entertainment system and a rotating selection of vinyl records. Locker rooms offer amenities like a steam room, cold plunge, and customized shower experiences, while a relaxation lounge on the lower level provides custom-designed chaise lounges for patrons awaiting or recovering from treatments. Patient rooms within the medical office suite maintain a serene, spa-like interior while adhering to standard facility regulations. The club also boasts multiple reformer studios for Pilates and custom gym cubbies and seating outside the main fitness studio. An expanded 10,000-square-foot co-working space, extending from the main social lounge, offers members areas for work and relaxation. This new area includes a rust-colored leather-wrapped bar inspired by sushi counters, serving food and beverages. The successful design elements, including architectural finishes, furniture, decorative lighting, and curated artwork, are consistently echoed throughout these new spaces. Mar Soraparu, Co-Founder & Chief Wellness Officer of BIÂN, highlights that the design's integration of philosophies, unique features, and thoughtful lighting choices create a luxurious and comfortable environment that enables members to pursue a more vital life. #IndustrialZenDesign #WellnessCenter #InteriorDesign #HealthClub #NaturalMaterials #BiLevelCommercialSpace #StudioK #ChicagoDesign #HolisticDesign

The article highlights several kitchen and bath design showrooms that serve as sources of inspiration for designers and clients alike. These showrooms offer comprehensive displays, allowing visitors to experience diverse design elements, materials, and technologies in fully realized settings, rather than through small vignettes. Designers leverage these spaces to showcase their creative vision, distinct design styles, and the latest trends in the industry. Bluebell Fine Cabinetry & Design in Wayne, PA, exemplifies this approach with its 5,000-sq.-ft. showroom featuring four custom kitchens, a bar, and a beverage pantry. The showroom's philosophy is to provide full-size displays that immerse clients in purpose-driven spaces. The 'Gulfstream' kitchen display, for instance, incorporates eucalyptus veneer used in aircraft interiors and a 5’x15′ island with a cantilevered Peruvian walnut top, alongside a concealed door leading to another display. Another notable display, the 'Reeded' kitchen, showcases reeded rift white oak cabinetry and fluted glass details, reflecting current design trends. The showroom also includes a dark and moody beverage pantry with blue/gray painted cabinetry and bleached walnut millwork, alongside a design library with adjustable lighting to help clients visualize materials under various conditions. Bakes & Kropp Fine Cabinetry's new flagship showroom in New York City's A&D Building is another example. Bob Bakes, co-founder and head of design, emphasizes the unique challenge and thrill of designing showrooms, which require multiple distinct yet cohesive kitchen displays. The 2,000-sq.-ft. space features eight displays, including three kitchens, a wine room, a butler's pantry, and a dressing area. The showroom's entrance presents a 'soft modern' impact kitchen with a mix of white and steel blue/gray cabinetry and natural stone countertops. Subsequent displays showcase a more traditional style with hand-painted white and burled walnut cabinetry, and a transitional kitchen with Cinder-stained walnut and Harbor Gray-painted cabinetry, many with functional, 'live' appliances. The wine room is highlighted as a favorite, demonstrating the firm's broader capabilities beyond kitchens. Rocpal Kitchen & Bath Studio in Oshawa, ON, Canada, has expanded into a 12,000-sq.-ft. showroom, fulfilling owner Fernando Rocchetta's vision of a dynamic and interactive one-stop shop for home renovations. The showroom features five full kitchen displays, eight vanity displays, an ensuite, mudroom, laundry room, walk-in closet, wine room, and an outdoor kitchen. It also includes a lower level for retail products and provides on-site interior design expertise. Displays are meticulously designed for functionality and aesthetic appeal, often eliciting a 'wow' reaction from visitors. Live features such as a GE Monogram pizza oven, Sub-Zero refrigerator, Cove dishwasher, and Invisacook induction cooktop demonstrate appliances in action. The walk-in closet and ensuite display, with its calming colors and Salice accessories, is a particular highlight for the showroom manager. Haggard Home Cabinetry & Design in Johns Creek, GA, moved into a 5,400-sq.-ft. showroom, tripling its previous space. April Haggard, the owner, designed the showroom to reflect both kitchen/bath design and interior design services, a unique combination in her area. Kitchen displays line the perimeter, with furniture filling the middle, creating a cozy, home-like atmosphere. The showroom includes smaller vignettes for a laundry room, primary bathroom, and closet, and showcases cabinetry lines spanning various budget levels. Instead of displaying appliances, Haggard focuses on items she sells, such as tile, countertops, flooring, and cabinetry. The showroom also features two dedicated design centers for cabinetry and interior design, complete with islands, televisions for design projections, and extensive samples. A conference room incorporates a repurposed white kitchen display, showcasing a hint of whimsy with pink tiles and wallpaper. A.T.C. Design Center in Fremont, CA, expanded its showroom to 5,000 sq. ft., integrating a former warehouse space. The new layout includes six kitchens and three bathrooms, along with extensive material sample displays. A central, oversized workbench/multi-use island made from five different Neolith slabs serves as a focal point, demonstrating the firm's expertise with unique materials and hosting networking events and client meetings. One kitchen display effectively blends modern and traditional styles, showcasing glossy white slab cabinetry alongside green shaker-style cabinetry, anchored by a large centerpiece island with Raphael Stone quartz. The showroom also prominently displays porcelain, quartz, and tile samples in visually distinctive and easily accessible ways, helping clients visualize full slab applications. #ShowroomDesign #KitchenDesign #BathDesign #InteriorDesign #Cabinetry #DesignTrends #HomeRenovation #MaterialSelection #ClientExperience

The eyewear brand KREWE transformed a former food storage warehouse in New Orleans' Lower Garden District into its new global headquarters. This project, spearheaded by KREWE's in-house designers and Olivia Erwin Interiors, aimed to create an adaptable, light-filled space centered around the sun, reflecting the brand's identity. The headquarters features an open floor plan that extends into a courtyard with a pool, serving as both a testing ground for new shade designs and a social club. The SUN_DAYS courtyard was designed in collaboration with hospitality group LeBlanc + Smith, intending to foster a community space for creative individuals in New Orleans. It offers amenities like a heated or chilled pool, wellness classes, and a sauna, and is utilized as a vital part of the company headquarters when not open to the public. The design emphasizes a minimalist aesthetic, built for function rather than preciousness, incorporating workstations from Poppin and Hem, alongside vintage finds. The kitchen areas feature concrete floors, marble counters, and Farrow & Ball's 'Breakfast Room Green' cabinets, with a nostalgic neon sign paying homage to a former Canal Street landmark. Beyond the headquarters, the article also explores KREWE's 1818 Magazine Street store and the gallery apartment above it, located in a historic early 1800s building. The store's interiors, a collaboration with Goodwood New Orleans and Nicole Cota, showcase a green terrazzo bar, custom-framed mirrors, and cypress cabinetry. The gallery apartment, designed by KREWE and Olivia Erwin Interiors, serves as a versatile space for hosting brand friends, dinner parties, or offsite retreats. This apartment signifies KREWE's evolution into a lifestyle brand, emphasizing physical spaces over an increasing number of products. Its entrance and stairway feature Farrow & Ball's 'Setting Plaster' and 'Cuban Heritage' tile, with a Signal Globe pendant from Workstead. The living room includes a vintage Milo Baughman sectional upholstered in pink, a custom coffee table, and a walnut dining table by Studioilse. The kitchen backsplash is pink marble, complemented by dark green fluted cabinets from Goodwood and a custom brass island. The apartment also features mid-century modern furniture, step-through windows leading to wraparound gallery balconies for natural light and indoor-outdoor flow, and outdoor furniture from HAY. A library features a custom sofa with paprika velvet cushions and automotive paint, with walls painted in Benjamin Moore's 'Dakota Shadow' and an Atollo Table Lamp. The bedroom includes a Nordic II Bed from Unison Home, an Ethnicraft 'Spindle' bedside table, a West Elm rug, and walls in Benjamin Moore's 'Winter Orchard'. The adjoining bath is painted in Farrow & Ball’s 'Green Smoke'. #WorkplaceDesign #OfficeInteriors #WarehouseConversion #NewOrleansDesign #EyewearBrand #CommercialArchitecture #InteriorDesign #LifestyleBrand #CommunitySpace

Silvana Souza, an interior designer and realtor, discusses her journey into entrepreneurship, driven by a passion for design and a desire for autonomy. With over 13 years of experience in interior design, she aimed to create personalized and functional spaces that reflect each client's individuality. Her decision to start her own business stemmed from wanting the freedom to implement her unique vision and build strong client relationships. Souza's approach focuses on crafting meaningful spaces that bear her distinctive signature. Souza's career is marked by her dedication to high-end, turnkey interior design projects. She holds a bachelor's degree in interior design and has further enhanced her capabilities by acquiring a real estate license. This dual qualification provides her with a comprehensive understanding of both design aesthetics and the real estate market, enabling her to offer clients strategic advice. She assists clients in making informed decisions about designing spaces, whether for resale purposes or for creating their long-term homes, ensuring their investments align with their future goals. Her design philosophy centers on storytelling, believing that every space should narrate the personality and needs of its inhabitants. She strives to create environments that are not only visually appealing but also highly functional and purposeful, collaborating closely with clients while providing expert guidance to simplify their choices. Souza acknowledges the challenges inherent in entrepreneurship, including moments of self-doubt, balancing business growth with family life, and adapting to an evolving industry. She emphasizes that these setbacks served as valuable learning opportunities, fostering persistence, patience, and adaptability. She highlights the importance of a strong support network and mentors in navigating her professional path. A key lesson learned is that success is not linear, and each experience contributes to increased confidence and a clearer vision. Souza is committed to authenticity, creativity, and a genuine desire to enhance lives through design, aiming to create environments that evoke emotion, offer comfort, and reflect unique identities. She assures clients of her dedication, expertise, and care throughout the entire design process. For visitors to the area, Souza suggests a varied itinerary combining relaxation with exploration. A typical week might begin with unwinding at her farmhouse in Fort Pierce, including peaceful walks on private trails. Day two could involve exploring Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach, known for its boutiques and dining spots. East Boca is recommended for dinner and drinks, specifically Louie Bossie. The Miami Design District offers artistic and architectural exploration, followed by a stylish lunch. Miami Beach's Art Deco district and Wynwood's street art scene are suggested for a vibrant cultural experience. A relaxed day on Boca Lake for boating and grilling, and a general beach day, round out the recommendations. These suggestions reflect a blend of natural beauty, urban culture, and culinary experiences. Souza expresses deep gratitude to her family, particularly her husband, for his unwavering support and encouragement in her entrepreneurial venture. Her children are also recognized for their understanding and patience, which allows her to focus on her business. She extends a special thanks to her mother for providing childcare, a crucial element enabling her professional growth. Additionally, Natalia Britto receives a shoutout for her valuable design business coaching and mentorship. Souza's website (homedesignstudio.us/about/), Instagram (@homedesignstudios), LinkedIn (silvanasouzahomes), and Facebook (homedesignstudiollc) are provided for further information and engagement. Portrait photography is credited to Sue Cervelin of Hello Studios, and project photography to Steve Olmo of Sea Olive Studios. #InteriorDesign #RealEstate #Entrepreneurship #BusinessJourney #DesignPhilosophy #WorkLifeBalance #ClientRelationships #MiamiLifestyle #BusinessMentorship

Arjealy Wisseh, a 2021 Interior Design alumna from Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and founder of Maiyn Design, has gained international recognition through her work being published on Moro, a global platform dedicated to interior design inspiration, professionals, and products. The featured project showcases a co-working office design and her contributions to a six-story space. This comprehensive project, developed in collaboration with peers Emma Canny and Raquel Rojas, exemplifies a successful fusion of traditional and modern interior design elements, catering to both commercial and residential applications. The article highlights several key aspects of the featured design, illustrating how Wisseh and her team balanced different aesthetic principles. The co-working office space emphasizes functionality and collaboration while incorporating modern design trends. Elements such as an open, inviting layout with abundant natural light, ample seating, and integrated greenery contribute to a vibrant and productive environment. This design approach reflects contemporary workplace needs, prioritizing comfort and aesthetic appeal to enhance employee well-being and productivity. The inclusion of various seating options and green elements suggests a focus on creating flexible and biophilic spaces, which are increasingly important in modern office design. Further illustrations within the article provide a detailed look at the residential components of the project. A kitchen rendering reveals an open-concept design that seamlessly integrates with living areas, promoting a sense of spaciousness and connectivity. This open-plan layout is a hallmark of modern residential design, fostering interaction and accessibility. The kitchen's aesthetic likely combines sleek, contemporary finishes with traditional materials or subtle classic details, achieving the project's overarching theme of blending styles. The use of neutral color palettes, clean lines, and integrated appliances further enhances the modern appeal, while specific design choices could introduce traditional warmth or texture. The bathroom design, depicted in a rendering, features a black, white, and gray color scheme, equipped with a shower and a dual sink. This monochromatic palette is characteristic of modern design, offering a sophisticated and timeless look. The inclusion of a dual sink enhances functionality, especially in shared living spaces, while the overall minimalist approach to fixtures and finishes maintains a contemporary feel. The design likely incorporates high-quality materials and efficient layouts, balancing luxury with practicality. The article also showcases various other functional areas, including open workspaces with desks and seating, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to space planning and utility. Tall bookshelves in an open workspace suggest an emphasis on both storage and visual interest, contributing to the professional yet inviting atmosphere. A lounge area featuring a wall-installed electric fireplace further illustrates the blend of styles, combining modern comfort with a traditional element that provides warmth and ambiance. This detail highlights the team's ability to create cozy and inviting zones within larger commercial or residential settings, adding a touch of domesticity to a professional environment or enhancing relaxation in a home setting. Finally, a large, open room with a long conference table and chairs is presented, indicating the project's capacity to accommodate formal meeting spaces. This area maintains the overall aesthetic coherence, featuring a design that is both professional and visually appealing. The choice of furniture and room arrangement likely reflects a balance between modern ergonomics and a classic sense of formality, ensuring that the space is suitable for various professional functions. Overall, the project by Arjealy Wisseh and her team demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of how to merge traditional and modern design philosophies to create versatile and aesthetically pleasing environments for diverse uses. #InteriorDesign #ModernDesign #TraditionalDesign #CoWorkingSpace #ResidentialDesign #CommercialDesign #RITAlumni #MaiynDesign #MoroPlatform

This article details the transformation of an 185-square-metre industrial loft on Geary Avenue into a comfortable, plant-filled home for furniture designer Shaun Moore and florist Todd Caldwell. The project was led by architect Tamira Sawatzky, with whom the couple maintains a close relationship, a testament to the successful collaboration. Moore and Caldwell, along with Sawatzky and her wife Elle Flanders, co-own the building, a former bomboniere importer warehouse, where they not only live but also operate their respective businesses. Moore runs Made Design, specializing in custom furniture, and Caldwell operates Emblem, a floral design studio, on the ground floor. Sawatzky and Flanders' Public Studio, an art and architecture practice, has an office next door, fostering a unique co-living and co-working environment. The initial encounter between Moore, Caldwell, and Sawatzky dates back to 1998 in Toronto, following their relocation from Winnipeg. Sawatzky had previously renovated the couple's Cabbagetown Victorian, skillfully blending its historic charm with modern conveniences. The opportunity to acquire the Geary Avenue building in 2016 presented itself, allowing Moore and Caldwell to integrate their living and working spaces, eliminating the need for expensive retail rents. Sawatzky's design philosophy for the loft involved respecting and enhancing the existing industrial character of the space while introducing elements that promoted livability and warmth. The loft's inherent industrial aesthetics, such as open-web steel joists, a corrugated-steel ceiling, polished concrete floors, and cinder-block walls, were preserved and form the core of its design. These structural elements define the expansive living areas, which are generously illuminated by skylights that draw natural light deep into the floor plate. To counteract the inherent coolness of industrial materials, Moore carefully selected wood furniture and finishes. His custom-designed dining table features a dark, richly veined walnut top, and the bathroom cabinetry combines white oak with shimmering brass accents. The two bedroom suites, located at the rear of the loft, are furnished with mid-century teak pieces, further contributing to the warmth and character of the space. An element of playful surprise is introduced through a vintage rolling library ladder, which provides access to a mezzanine sitting area overlooking the main loft space. This ladder, discovered within the building, was repurposed by Moore and Caldwell, symbolizing their approach to giving new life to old elements, much like the warehouse itself. The article highlights the successful integration of industrial aesthetics with personal touches and functional design, creating a unique and inviting home that also serves as a thriving workspace for its occupants. #InteriorDesign #CondosLofts #Renovations #IndustrialLoft #ArchitecturalRenovation #CustomFurniture #FloralDesign #LiveWorkSpace #ModernDesign

The article addresses a freelance project manager's dilemma regarding difficulty in securing clients despite two decades of experience in the property development sector, managing projects for in-house interior design studios. The project manager, who enjoys orchestrating teams for optimal collaboration and problem-solving while delivering designs, seeks advice on how to market services to interior design studios and high-net-worth clients. A common obstacle encountered is clients' belief that their interior designer or builder can manage projects, overlooking the added value of a dedicated project manager. Sean Low, a business coach for interior designers, suggests that ultraluxury project designers are already highly skilled in design, with less room for significant improvement in that area. However, he highlights that production management, encompassing construction and decor, is an evolving field, particularly with advancements in communication technologies like AI. Low distinguishes between delivering essential and unessential information, arguing that while clients only care about the timely arrival of a product, providing continuous, even 'unessential,' updates can build trust and professionalism. This approach allows designers to proactively address issues and maintain a perceived high level of care. Low advises the project manager to differentiate their services beyond merely performing better than other project managers. He proposes a shift in perspective: instead of simply managing, the project manager should aim to 'entertain' clients by creating unique deliverables that would be noticeably absent if not provided. This strategy positions the project manager not only as an invaluable resource but also as a potential revenue enhancer for design firms. An illustrative example is provided through one of Low's clients, a design firm owner who faced communication challenges with clients who only wanted to interact with her, causing delays. Low suggested a system where each employee created weekly five-minute video updates on their work. This initiative was well-received by employees and allowed the firm owner to review updates on her schedule. A junior designer's playful video update, adopting a Gordon Ramsay persona, was shared with a client who found it humorous and responded quickly. Another junior designer's creative video featuring an actor portraying 'The Dude' from *The Big Lebowski* for a bathroom project also elicited an overwhelmingly positive and swift client response. This innovative video communication strategy transformed the client's business. The firm now produces four to six client videos weekly, leading to faster client responses and a valuable library of project videos upon completion. Crucially, the firm owner is minimally involved, yet communication issues have been resolved, and production fees have tripled. The firm's profit margin on production has become comparable to its design profit margin, making it one of the most profitable in the industry. Low concludes by encouraging the freelance project manager to embrace obsession and redefine the game by creating unique value that makes clients feel more connected and understood, moving beyond traditional spreadsheet-centric project management. #BusinessAdvice #ProjectManagement #Freelancing #InteriorDesign #ClientCommunication #Innovation #DesignIndustry #BusinessStrategy

Alicia Hylton-Daniel is an interior designer and general contractor who has carved a unique path in a field where she often stands alone as a Black woman. Her journey began unexpectedly after a house fire in 2002 prompted her to reassess her career goals. She subsequently enrolled at Meredith College, graduating in 2008 with a degree in interior design. For the first decade of her career, Alicia focused on commercial interior design, gaining valuable experience that would later influence her distinct approach to residential projects. Her transition into general contracting was inspired by her husband, Roger. This step allowed her to manage her designs more comprehensively and to establish her worth within the industry. Shortly after becoming a licensed general contractor, she launched her own design/build company, Hylton Daniel Properties, also known as Hylton Daniel Design + Construction, which has now been in operation for over five years. Alicia's initial goal was to design and construct modern houses for sale, a pursuit that offered her significant creative freedom, free from client constraints. She named her first project 'Modernist 1,' anticipating a series of similar ventures. To date, she has designed and built six modern homes, which she considers her artistic expressions. While Hylton Daniel Properties accepts client work, it primarily focuses on mid to large-sized renovations and additions, with a preference for renovating older homes, particularly those from the Mid-Century Modern and 1970s architectural eras. Alicia intentionally avoids designing and building ground-up houses for clients due to the complexities of client input combined with subcontractor management, choosing to prioritize her creative autonomy. She distinguishes her work from typical 'flips,' which she views as quick and thoughtless, emphasizing a meticulous design and construction process. Her projects involve extensive site study to ensure optimal house placement, visual integration, and consideration of height and scale in spatial layout and exterior design. Her commercial design background also enables her to incorporate non-standard and experimental finishes into her residential projects, offering a unique edge. Hylton Daniel is a small team of five, including Alicia and Roger, handling a maximum of four client projects annually. This controlled workload ensures detailed design, quality construction, and exceptional project management. Alicia emphasizes that she charges for her time and talent, clarifying that her services do not align with the often-unrealistic expectations set by HGTV. She also requires homeowners to vacate the premises for extensive renovations, particularly those involving critical areas like kitchens and bathrooms, to maintain project efficiency and safety. Alicia takes pride in her problem-solving abilities through spatial layout, and her enjoyment of lighting and finishes. She dedicates herself to understanding clients' emotional and cultural backgrounds to achieve successful designs. Alicia recently shared a story of resilience, recounting an incident where she discovered she was being targeted by a neighbor during the construction of her 'Modernist 4' home. She publicly addressed the bigotry, refusing to be silenced or conform to societal expectations of 'professionalism' that she felt had historically disadvantaged Black women. Her outspoken stance garnered widespread support from both Black and white women, validating her decision to advocate for herself. She highlighted the importance of unlearning the societal lesson of 'not talking money,' particularly as a Black woman who, like many, has experienced underpayment. She now unapologetically discusses her rates, refusing to compromise her self-worth. In addition to her design and build work, Hylton Daniel has expanded into a short-stay portfolio, offering a renovated 1940s post-war house and two of her modern homes, 'Modernist 5' and 'Modernist 6,' for short-term rentals, allowing guests to experience her unique designs. #InteriorDesign #GeneralContractor #ModernArchitecture #DesignBuild #ResidentialRenovation #Entrepreneurship #BlackWomanInBusiness #SpatialLayout #Resilience

The size, layout, and overall usability of a home are primary factors buyers consider when evaluating properties, as these elements must align with their family size and lifestyle requirements. To enhance a home's attractiveness to potential buyers, real estate experts Leslie Davis and Lyndsay Lamb, known from HGTV's "Unsellable Houses," advocate for creating multiple distinct spaces within a single open-plan area. This strategy was demonstrated in an episode where they transformed a home that had languished on the market for two months, despite its desirable location. The duo successfully divided an open floor plan into a fully furnished and accessorized living room, dining area, and kitchen, thereby showcasing the room's capacity and versatility. Lamb emphasized that this design approach helps buyers visualize the generous proportions of the space from both an aesthetic and functional standpoint. When preparing a home for sale, it is crucial to facilitate a buyer's ability to envision themselves living in the property. This is particularly important for families, who often seek homes that require minimal modifications post-purchase. The core of this approach involves establishing distinct zones that maximize space efficiency without creating a sense of disorder. This enables prospective buyers to appreciate the various functional possibilities within the home. Lyndsay Lamb and Leslie Davis effectively implemented this by defining a dining room area. They repositioned a chandelier to hang directly over the dining table, thereby formalizing the space and clearly delineating it as a dedicated dining zone. Additionally, they utilized large area rugs to further differentiate the mini living room and dining table setups, establishing clear boundaries between these adjacent spaces. In essence, the strategy focuses on demonstrating the potential and functionality of an open-concept layout by visually segmenting it into various purposeful areas. This not only highlights the spaciousness of the property but also provides buyers with a clear understanding of how each section can be utilized, making the home feel more adaptable to their specific needs. The careful placement of furniture, lighting, and floor coverings plays a pivotal role in achieving this clear delineation, transforming a large, undifferentiated space into a series of inviting and functional zones. This approach aims to reduce any uncertainty buyers might have about how to use an open layout, thereby increasing the home's market appeal and reducing its time on the market. #HomeSellingTips #RealEstateAdvice #OpenConceptDesign #HomeStaging #InteriorDesign #HGTVUnsellableHouses #SpaceMaximization #BuyerAppeal #FunctionalSpaces

This article highlights seven distinctive apartment buildings across the United States, showcasing how luxury and affordable housing developments are moving away from standardized designs to embrace unique character, eco-consciousness, and a wealth of amenities. Each featured building, from East Coast to West, Florida to New York, demonstrates innovative architectural and interior design strategies. In Tampa, Florida, the Asher residential complex, designed by Morris Adjmi Architects, stands out for its massive scale and LEED Gold certification. The 22-story building offers 490 rental and extended-stay units, conceived with price-conscious tenants in mind, starting at 380 square feet. Despite the compact size, the interiors feature high-quality materials such as American oak, terrazzo, brass, and Venetian plaster, complemented by art from contemporary artists like Windy Chien, William LaChance, and Thomas Trum. An impressive amenity deck includes a 74-foot pool, underscoring a commitment to luxury even in smaller units. The Astor in New York, a historic Upper West Side property dating back to 1901, was revitalized by Pembrooke & Ives and Ash Staging. The renovation transformed 25 residences into luxurious condominiums, ranging from studios to five-bedrooms, while preserving original features like the entry's heavily veined marble. The redesigned units boast contemporary kitchens, oversized main bathrooms, and marble fireplace mantels, with model units and the lobby curated with furniture and artwork by Ash Staging, blending historical charm with modern sophistication. In Alameda, California, the Launch residential mid-rise, designed by Vida Design, incorporates maritime architectural influences, reflecting the city's island setting and naval air station history. The 13,000 square feet of amenity and public spaces, including a distinctive noir mailroom, feature a color palette inspired by the sea, utilizing Benjamin Moore & Co.’s Polo Blue and Space Black. Furnishings, such as custom nautical-hued sofas and Blu Dot loveseats, are chosen for their aerodynamic and shipshape qualities, creating a cohesive thematic environment. The Suffolk, a 30-story building in New York's Lower East Side designed by JG Neukomm Architecture, reflects the area's diverse cultural tapestry through its common areas and unit finishes. The lobby, inspired by historic Guastavino vaults, features artisanal plaster, terrazzo floors, and custom 9-foot pendants. Amenity lounges offer a continental feel with Calacatta Viola risers and Patricia Urquiola seating, while coworking spaces adopt a punk aesthetic with black-and-white photography and Area Environments wallcoverings, showcasing a rich blend of materials and moods. South E8 in Raleigh, North Carolina, by Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects, addresses the city's rapid growth by adding eight rental residences to a previously single-unit lot. The three-story building is characterized by its dramatic, environmentally conscious design, featuring an angular facade that transitions from white-painted brick to black standing-seam steel paneling. Interiors prioritize passive design strategies, including cross ventilation, energy- and water-efficient fixtures, ample daylighting, and outdoor access, promoting both sustainability and tenant well-being. The Wellsmith Apartments in Richmond, Virginia, designed by Hickok Cole, focus on enriching tenants' lives and promoting well-being. This 349-unit new-build rental property features a graphic white-brick and black-aluminum exterior. Inside, a large botanical mural by local painter Naomi McCavitt, along with other stress-relieving art, enhances the aesthetic. Elevated finishes such as quartz, chrome, porcelain tile, and polished concrete are used throughout, while airy communal spaces connect to pools, courtyards, and green areas, offering a front-porch experience with urban benefits. The Allan & Geraldine Rosenberg Residences in Freeport, Long Island, Studio Libeskind’s first affordable-housing project, is specifically designed for seniors. All 45 units include accessible ceramic-tiled bathrooms. Common areas are dynamic and accessible, featuring a rooftop walking track with precast-concrete pavers and an internal courtyard. Brightly colored doorways within the courtyard aid resident orientation, all enclosed by a StoTherm ci Mineral facade punctuated with geometric apertures, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic appeal. #ApartmentDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #InteriorDesign #SustainableDesign #LuxuryApartments #AffordableHousing #UrbanDevelopment #ArchitecturalInnovation #AmenitySpaces

Brittany Lyons, an Oak Cliff resident, transitioned from a full-time position as a chairman’s office coordinator at UT Southwestern Medical Center to a career in interior design. Despite holding a biology degree, Lyons’ passion for home interiors, cultivated since her childhood experiences with her parents flipping and building houses in Mississippi, eventually led her to establish Brittany Lyons Interiors. Her journey into professional interior design began in 2015 after she decorated her own home and shared photos on Instagram. A high school friend, impressed by her work, commissioned her for a home makeover, initiating a steady flow of clients primarily through word-of-mouth referrals. Upon moving to Dallas in 2016, Lyons strategically utilized social media platforms like Instagram, Houzz, and Pinterest to expand her client base. Her design philosophy centers on creating "peaceful, functional design" that promotes self-care for her clients, regardless of the project's scale, from large suburban residences to compact urban apartments. Lyons emphasizes that even small spaces deserve thoughtful design to enhance enjoyment and utility. She offers practical advice for smaller areas, such as using lighter paint colors, painting ceilings the same color as walls to create an illusion of space, incorporating mirrors, and avoiding oversized electronics. Running her business, Lyons faced the initial challenge of assembling a reliable team of contractors, painters, and installers who could deliver quality work at a reasonable cost and uphold her brand's integrity. She has since built a trusted crew, ensuring that anyone representing her company is professional and dependable. Lyons considers professional photography of her completed projects an indispensable asset for her business, as these images are crucial for her online marketing efforts and attract a significant portion of her clientele. Among her notable projects, Lyons recently completed a $1.5 million custom-built new home in Lucas, Texas, where her responsibilities included selecting every detail, from flooring and paint colors to stone and lighting fixtures, to personalize the space for her clients. She particularly enjoys redesigning bedrooms, considering them personal spaces where much can be done with elements like headboards, linens, and pillows to foster peaceful environments. Lyons highlights that many people misunderstand the value of hiring an interior designer, often viewing it as a luxury rather than a worthwhile investment. She clarifies that a designer's role extends far beyond aesthetic choices, encompassing intricate tasks such as coordinating deliveries, ensuring correct item reception, running errands for materials, advising on technical details like grout type and lighting placement, and managing contractors. Ultimately, Lyons asserts that the primary benefit of hiring a designer is saving clients considerable time and ensuring projects are executed correctly the first time, thus providing significant value for a fraction of the total renovation cost. She finds immense satisfaction in witnessing clients' reactions to their newly designed spaces and hearing how these transformations positively impact their lives, despite the inherent stresses of her profession. #InteriorDesign #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #HomeDecor #ResidentialDesign #DallasBusiness #CareerTransition

This article details the gut renovation of a 1913 factory floor in Carroll Gardens, transformed into a modern two-person home by architect Alex Delaunay of SABO project. Initially, Delaunay was commissioned only for a bathroom refurbishment, but upon discovering the building's hidden industrial character, he proposed a complete overhaul, which the owners embraced. The building, originally constructed in 1913, had been converted into residential property in the 1980s, a process that involved covering exposed wood and beams and dropping ceilings by four feet to reduce heating costs. Delaunay's primary objective was to reveal the historic elements of the building and maximize natural light throughout the space. The six-month renovation involved removing partitions that had created small, confined rooms, resulting in a single, open 1,333-square-foot living area. Existing and newly added interior walls were kept to a height of approximately eight feet, with the space above them fitted with glass. This strategic use of glass allowed natural light to penetrate deeply into previously dim areas like the kitchen and bathroom, significantly enhancing the apartment's overall brightness and sense of openness. The kitchen was outfitted with sleek white cabinets designed to align with the windows, promoting visual continuity. The bathroom received a distinctive character through turquoise tiles and a custom seven-foot bathtub, the largest available, accommodating the owners' preferences. Delaunay emphasized that the contemporary design elements served to highlight the hundred-year-old rough, industrial features of the building, bringing them to the forefront. Given the apartment's size, many design choices incorporated dual-purpose functionality. For instance, the bathroom features a wide basin with two sinks and extra-large cabinets, providing much-needed storage space that is otherwise limited in the bedroom area. A prominent artistic wooden-box installation, extending from the kitchen to the mezzanine, serves as both shelving and storage, with each cubby custom-sized to its specific contents. The renovation uncovered concrete columns and 12-foot ceilings, which had been concealed behind drywall. The dropped ceiling was removed, and the Sheetrock walls were taken down, exposing the original industrial framework. The bathroom design includes an Italian-marble backsplash from Calacatta quarries, and the white-oak boxes are arranged in horizontal bands to visually extend the room. The walk-in closet features walls capped at six feet six inches, and the box-like cabinets offer varied opening mechanisms. The single bathroom accommodates both owners with a hand shower and rainfall showerhead, and the concrete ceilings reveal the grain of the forms they were poured into a century ago. The seven-foot bathtub rests on a Corian deck and integrates with one of the building’s original concrete columns. Tiles from Stone Source are arranged in a pattern resembling windblown leaves, adding an organic touch to the industrial aesthetic. #DesignHunting #HomeDesign #LoftRenovation #IndustrialInterior #OpenConceptLiving #HistoricPreservation #ModernDesign #SaboProject