The two-week vacation before and after Christmas is my favorite. The twinkling lights and time with friends and family is something I treasure, but I also enjoy making plans and projections for 2019. I love stewing about goals! Retrospect of 2018 (mistakes) gives me fuel for change, and I get butterflies planning for new adventures. To anyone … Read More »
Do I Hire an Interior Designer or a Contractor?
"Hi Tawna! This is so-and-so, and I'm remodeling my basement/kitchen/master bathroom. I need to figure out a floor plan and was wondering if I talk to you or a contractor first?" I get this question more than any other, and I would like to set the record straight today. Sort of. You see, it's not a straightforward as it might seem, and I … Read More »
How to Get Anything You Want From Your Interior Designer
When you hire a designer, what answers are you looking for? What results do you want that you can't get on your own? Interior design work is magical. Designers are dream makers, creative seekers, and guardians of the beautiful. We are also servants, psychologists, executors, fund managers, and problem solvers. Beyond that, we are … Read More »
High Point Market 2018: Pretty is Back
Do you believe in comeback stories? I do. After this year's market, I have found a sliver of hope that we are on the verge of starting a comeback in a market that has all but disappeared: quality American furniture. Not many people know that between 2001 and 2012, more than sixty-three thousand U.S. factories closed—furniture and clothing … Read More »
How to Pick the Right Light Bulbs
As we move to more energy efficient light, are you confused about which bulbs to pick? Today I want to direct you toward the best solution, although one size doesn't fit all and you may still want to experiment. First of all, stay away from bulbs labeled "Daylight". While that label sounds beautiful and natural, it is NOT! Let's dig into … Read More »
Worthwhile Work is a Duet
I love the New Year. When the old year dies, it lets us forgive and let go of everything that didn't serve us. Then we have 365 days of new starts. As 2018 begins, I want to tell you I am thankful for you. Yes, you. You've trusted me to help you with your design work. On top of that, you've given me invaluable feedback about the things I … Read More »
Q&A: Should I Paint My Kitchen White?
White, white, and more white. It's everywhere. So should you jump on the bandwagon? That's the question I am answering on the blog today! Here's the reader's question: "I have a kitchen/dining room and laundry room that need attention. I was thinking of painting the cupboards white and [installing] a darker countertop like this photo: I … Read More »
Q & A: Where To Use Dark Colors
This time of year is magic. The earth has patterned itself into a green quilt, snow has turned into frothing water, and we are enjoying the long light. It sneaks around us at 4:30 in the morning and we watch is linger until 10 at night. I think it wants to stay just as much as we do. Of course, if we have long light now we will live in inky … Read More »
High Point Market 2017
High Point Market is a must-see for anyone in the design business. I try to go once a year to catch up with vendors, colleagues, and learn from the many educational events. Trying to get from Wyoming to High Point, NC is always an adventure. No matter how I try to arrange my flights, there's simply not a convenient way to get through four … Read More »
Q & A: Styling a Fireplace
Today I wanted to try something a little different. This blog was the place I started in 2009, and it has done many transformations. This may or may not be another one...we'll see how it goes! I want to start a series where I answer reader's questions. Do you like that idea? It could be a fun way to interact as well as solve some dilemmas that … Read More »
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