We are always excited when the builder brings plans for us to review. Sometimes we suggest changes and this year was no different. We loved the open feel and all the light that the plan offered. So, we went about our normal procedure with our design inspiration, the right fabric. Once we find the right fabric that we normally include in the design of the house, we start the process. The process includes, pulling colors and design. This year the fabric had the newest Benjamin Moore colors for 20l9. As a matter of fact, I went to a Benjamin Moore seminar to see the new colors earlier in the year. Of course, new fabrics and new colors are our closest friends. From the seminar, I walked away with five colors I wanted to use in the new Parade House. We paint boards, lay them out in the office for weeks looking at the colors on large 12 by 24 paint boards. The fabric of our choice and the paint color boards were seen every day to make sure the feel was what we wanted. The ambience was a huge success during open house. Our light fixture choices were gold and there was a reason. We wanted to warm the large space that were cooler neutral colors. There is a method to our madness. The gold hardware on the cabinets was also a great hit. Gold hardware against the Smoke color on the island and laundry room cabinets was fantastic.
The first weekend we did not give out color sheets because we were not sure people would ask about the colors, but they were very interested in all of it. So many of the public asked us what color was on the floor. The color on the floor was Washed Oak by Minwax. Our strategy was light and bright, which by the way is our signature. We love bright and open spaces. On the second weekend, we made color sheets so people could take them in case they wanted to try one of the colors themselves.
We were so pleased with the colors. Again, the island and laundry room cabinets were painted Smoke by Benjamin Moore. The other cabinets were painted White Dove by Benjamin Moore. The main wall color was Horizon by Benjamin Moore. All the furnishings, accessories, and artwork were purchased using our theme colors. People tell us that our houses flow. We also used our signature rugs which were all vintage, except the family room which was a custom-made carpet and an animal shaped zebra fake rug. We sprayed real curly sticks gold and cut the bottom off to put in tall vases to bring your eye up with the height of the ceiling. The owner and builder helped us with a saw. The light fixture in the family room filled the space which also gave off generous light. The gold highlights were exceptional with all the gold we used in the house. The plank tongue and groove ceiling gave a good visual architecture. The family room set of windows was magnificent. This is on a large lot with woods between it and the neighborhood behind it. Many people mentioned the view and how it felt, almost like you were on a mountain. I would think anyone would be comfortable in this house. I understand that some folks are apprehensive about using a design firm, but most of the time if you do, you get multiple ideas and creativity. For us, we have four people on the design team, so you get a lot of value for your money and a great design to boot.
December is the time of year to also think about what you will be doing in January. Think about your next project in advance and get it on our calendar to get help.
Merry Christmas & Blessings,
June
