Search results for "Analysis" in Home Design Ideas

The 'before' shot of this period home covered in lead based paint that we stripped off.
Inspiration for a timeless exterior home remodel in Seattle
Inspiration for a timeless exterior home remodel in Seattle

Sunday, September 14, 2014
Is Your Interior Design Depressing You?
By Joseph Pubillones
(DailyHerald.com http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20140913/entlife/140919600)
From time to time, someone will corner me and confess to me that they are depressed; they whisper that they believe their decorating is making them sick. They tell me that their interiors are not to their liking because of choices made by their spouse, their designer, or because of their own misguided attempts at decorating.
Is it possible for their environment to make them feel sick? Yes (as I think about it), it is possible for design to alter moods.
In the mid-1950s, Norbett Mintz, a researcher at Brandeis University, and his mentor, the renowned psychologist Abraham Maslow, decided to conduct research about the effects of "beauty" on behavior. Mintz had already conducted experiments about the effects of color on human behavior and concluded that color selection has a palpable effect on personal behavior.
A room's design can have an impact on your mood. Mismatched colors or an
overstuffed room can affect your ability to relax and feel comfortable.
In their experiment about beauty, they designed three rooms. The first was "the ugly room", replete with clashing colors and patterns, disorganization and too much furniture for the size of the space. The second was "the average room", arranged with a monochromatic scheme, basic furniture pieces and subtly colored nondescript art. The third was "the beautiful room", decorated with quality case-goods, and fashionable fabrics and colors. Overwhelmingly, the test group rejected "the ugly room". "The average room" and "the beautiful room" were tied as the preferred room. When asked to describe the rooms, the test group was best able to describe "the beautiful room".
As a designer, this is not news to me. There are rooms, especially those that I like, that I can describe with remarkable detail. Although our notion of what is beautiful varies from person to person, it can be said that beautiful design is more memorable. We can deduce that each person prefers the beautiful.
From the time we are born, there are foods that are preferred -- some love sweets; others prefer more savory flavors. Over time, our taste buds evolve, and what was once a favorite food can become insipid or nauseating. The same is true for interior design. Over time, everyone develops preferences about what makes us feel comfortable and at home.
When I hear that someone's home is depressing, I am concerned. I suggest immediate action to change what is most bothersome. If it is wall color: a painting party is overdue. If it is furniture: I ask them to consider new upholstery; a new furniture arrangement; or substituting new pieces for those that offend. And for those too timid or dismayed to tackle their problems head-on and alone, I suggest hiring a professional interior designer.
( Joseph Pubillones is the owner of Joseph Pubillones Interiors, an award-winning interior design firm based in Palm Beach, Fla. © 2014 Creators.com)
[Comment by Brandon Oriental Rugs: Good quality is evident in the words we use when we appreciate its presence: beauty, harmony, integrity, excellence. These are appealing impressions it makes upon our minds and spirits. It can't be faked. Attempts to put a stamp of "quality" -- as in "good quality" -- upon things which possess or convey "bad quality" doesn't fool anyone who appreciates quality and the benefits it inherently brings.]
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Saturday, September 13, 2014
Bucks County Rug Store Helps Bethlehem, PA Homeowners Select Rugs to Complete Newly Furnished Living Room and Dining Room
Our customers purchased new living room and dining room furniture from Hendrixson's Fine Furnishings in Shimersville, PA.
With most of both rooms finished, they asked Brandon Oriental Rugs to help them find two fine quality oriental rugs that would coordinate with each other, and serve as the last puzzle pieces to complete their decorating.
Both rugs are finely detailed, hand-knotted, antique reproduction Persian Tabriz design oriental rugs made in India. The living room rug has a golden-maize color background with an antique gold border that subtly complements the fabrics and floor color in the room. The small scale motifs add color and interest while not defeating the supporting role the rug plays in the room to the customer's collection of fine original artworks.
The dining room rug is an unusual "Hasht-guli" design with berry-red background and golden-maize border that complements the living room rug, the rich mahogany wood-tones of the dining room suite, and the fabrics used in the custom window treatments designed and installed by Hendrixson's.
The wonderful result wrought by our customers expressing their good taste in an unswerving commitment to quality is proof that a modestly sized home can look and feel as elegant and luxurious as any palace.
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Is That Really an Antique Rug? Antique Rugs Might Not Always Be As Old As You Think.
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Tuesday, September 9, 2014
Oriental Rugs: What More Can You Say?
(BrandonRugs.com) Sometimes when there's a lot to be said, saying it quietly commands more attention.
You almost want to invite the oriental rugs to speak up, but they are always content playing a supporting role.
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Rug Placement Helps Determine Room Function and Where Rooms Begin and End
(BrandonRugs.com) If feel that your decorating is neither here nor there; the appropriate use of handmade oriental rugs will definitely help you to figure out where here is.
http://www.pinterest.com/pin/133348838942090547/
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Saturday, September 6, 2014
Why You Should Hire a Professional Interior Designer
by Cindy Beyer — August 27, 2014 at 1:00 pm
( http://www.restonnow.com/2014/08/27/why-you-should-hire-a-professional-interior-designer)
The interior of your home says a lot about you. Your home is your castle. Many of my clients have said they couldn’t imagine the results after their project was completed. They say it was the WOW factor. I say, that is why you hired a professional designer.
There are many situations that warrant the hiring a professional interior designer. This includes something as simple as choosing paint and window covering to full scale renovation work such as a new kitchen, bath or lower level. In addition to achieving that WOW factor, a professional interior designer will save their clients’ money in many ways, most importantly the avoidance of costly mistakes.
Not only will a professional designer understand the context of the project, they will have access to many resources and their trained eye can make a world of difference in the final result. And those final results also will improve the value of your home.
Professional interior designers are able to work closely with architects and contractors and are comfortable with drawing floor plans, as well as understanding the implications of how interiors will be used as it relates to structural and available floor space.
Beyond floor plans, program management, installation and understanding how structural design will be used in a practical setting, a professional interior designer will also be knowledgeable in color and fabric design, space planning, window coverings, furniture design, architecture and much more. So when you see the initials ASID and NCIDQ next to an interior designer’s name, know they have been through significant amount of formal certification.
When hiring a professional interior designer, it is important to have an understanding of the scope of the work to be done. Before my initial meeting with a new client, I ask them to spend some time making a list of their needs as well as any pictures they saved of items or rooms they like. Upon our first meeting, I take photos and measurements. Together,we then develop a detailed itemized list covering all areas of concern. The next step is to draw up and present a floor plan. Depending on the type of project this could include floor plans and furniture placement as well as construction and lighting if needed.
Once the plan is approved appropriate furnishings and finishes are selected. This can be fun - and exhausting as well. I often present my clients with many samples from which to choose. After the furniture choices, I develop a comprehensive budget itemizing all purchases.
I also may call on several of the contractors I work with such as electricians, plumbers, cabinet wholesalers and cabinet makers, painters, as well as drapery workrooms and installers. It has taken many years to compile trusted associates, which is an important part of being a good designer.
Lead times for good furniture and furnishings can take from 6-12 weeks depending on availability. This extra time gives sufficient time to finish the required preparatory work, and allows clients time to dispose of old furniture.
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Thursday, September 4, 2014
Homeowners Select Persian Kashan Rug from Bucks County Oriental Rug Store Brandon Oriental Rugs (www.BrandonRugs.com) for Family Room of Their Upper Montgomery County Farmhouse
- See more at: http://brandonrugs.blogspot.com/#sthash.QMFruxxC.dpuf (Pamela Ward/ Brandon Oriental Rugs)

A new custom residence in the Harrison Views neighborhood of Issaquah Highlands.
The home incorporates high-performance envelope elements (a few of the strategies so far include alum-clad windows, rock wall house wrap insulation, green-roofs and provision for photovoltaic panels).
The building site has a unique upper bench and lower bench with a steep slope between them. The siting of the house takes advantage of this topography, creating a linear datum line that not only serves as a retaining wall but also as an organizing element for the home’s circulation.
The massing of the home is designed to maximize views, natural daylight and compliment the scale of the surrounding community. The living spaces are oriented to capture the panoramic views to the southwest and northwest, including Lake Washington and the Olympic mountain range as well as Seattle and Bellevue skylines.
A series of green roofs and protected outdoor spaces will allow the homeowners to extend their living spaces year-round.
With an emphasis on durability, the material palette will consist of a gray stained cedar siding, corten steel panels, cement board siding, T&G fir soffits, exposed wood beams, black fiberglass windows, board-formed concrete, glass railings and a standing seam metal roof.
A careful site analysis was done early on to suss out the best views and determine how unbuilt adjacent lots might be developed.
The total area is 3,425 SF of living space plus 575 SF for the garage.
Photos by Benjamin Benschneider. Architecture by Studio Zerbey Architecture + Design. Cabinets by LEICHT SEATTLE.
Find the right local pro for your project

Budget analysis and project development by: May Construction, Inc.
Bathroom - mid-sized transitional 3/4 white tile and ceramic tile beige floor and ceramic tile bathroom idea in San Francisco with recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, an undermount sink, a two-piece toilet, blue walls and quartz countertops
Bathroom - mid-sized transitional 3/4 white tile and ceramic tile beige floor and ceramic tile bathroom idea in San Francisco with recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, an undermount sink, a two-piece toilet, blue walls and quartz countertops

Now, instead of feeling like you were banished to the small dingy kitchen to do every day cooking and cleaning, the kitchen is a destination spot where the whole family likes to hang out. Complete with crisp white custom cabinetry, neutral quartz countertops, a large stunning kitchen island, prep sink and coffee bar. Traditional subway tiles and modern stainless-steel appliances bring this space into the 21st century.
Budget analysis and project development by: May Construction

Raza and Baneen purchased their home in Schaumburg IL. knowing it needed work, but they saw the incredible potential it had with its expanse of beautiful kitchen windows and spacious floor plan.
The kitchen technically functioned fine, but was desperately outdated with its honey oak cabinets and plain countertops. This family loved to cook and host parties so it was an easy decision that the kitchen remodel was the first project they needed to tackle to make their home come to life.
Baneen had very specific ideas for her new dream kitchen and had been thinking about it for over 10 years! When they met Advance Design’s Project Designer Claudia Pop, Baneen felt an instant connection.
“From the first meeting, I knew that Claudia would guide us without putting down our ideas,” Baneen said.
The couple had two fears common among remodeling home owners: Would the project be done on time? And, would the project stay on budget? Advance Design was able to alleviate their fears early on, as Claudia shared the “Common Sense Remodeling” process. Raza and Baneen absolutely loved the custom project analysis that helped them understand how a budget could be accurately predicted and then safeguarded during the design process.
“Advance Design was spot on with both the budget and the project timeframe,” Baneen said. “Overall there were no surprises, and the budget was exactly what we were quoted. The experience was phenomenal, everybody was professional, everybody was courteous, everyone was nice, everyone was friendly. It wasn't stressful for us, they still left the house in a presentable state. It wasn't like we would come home and we were bring the kids in and it was going to be hazardous."
After the relationship was cemented, Raza, Baneen and Claudia began to finalize the kitchen design. The main objective was to create a functional space for preparing meals and to create an inviting space for their family and friends to enjoy, while incorporating interesting design elements such as the iconic blue island and reclaimed Chicago brick walls. Sufficient storage space was really important to Baneen, and high quality appliances were a priority. As the overall layout was being completed, together they reviewed each cabinet to determine exactly what would be stored there.
Because cooking was a high priority for this family, Claudia incorporated spice racks close to the range and included two mixer lift shelves for their larger countertop appliances.
The focal point of the kitchen is the striking blue island constructed from custom colored Dura Supreme cabinets. Designed with decorative shelving and a highly functional prep sink. The couple loves the “galley” prep sink, it adds even more functionality and significantly shortens preparation and cleaning time. This island also includes a 24" Bosch Dishwasher with matching panel to blend in.
"Aesthetically, and in terms of functionality, the island everything I imagined," Baneen said. "I love how beautiful it looks and how functional it is. It just brings everybody together."
The Praa Sands Quartz countertop with an ogee edge profile provides excellent contrast by blending it's subtle tones with the outer cabinetry. It ties the island together with the rest of the space. Overlooking the beautiful backyard through spacious windows, the crisp white farmhouse sink is something that Baneen envisioned in her kitchen for years.
Two tones of Dura Supreme Cabinetry were used throughout the rest of the kitchen. Chestnut Cherry cabinets grace the range and decorative range hood and as panels over the Wolf refrigerator and freezer. Antique White cabinets surround the perimeter, creating a warm balance that beckons guests into the softly rounded space.
Drawing the eye immediately to the custom wood hood hiding a powerful 1,500 CFM ventilation system and spectacular 60” Duel Fuel Wolf range, a creatively patterned Tessen in Café & Brine backsplash detail stands out from the white subway tile backsplash spanning the outer walls. The vibrant space reflects the lively personality of the family who now loves spending time both cooking and enjoying this kitchen as a family.
“The end result is a beautiful and extremely functional kitchen that is able to handle a growing family, lots of parties and lots of cooking,” Claudia said.
“Advance Design was wonderfully professional and a pleasure to work with. They catered to what my needs and ideas were, while skillfully guiding us to make the right choices where we seemed lost,” Baneen said.

This project involved the design of a carefully small backyard deck that connected different levels of existing porch and patio areas.
Example of a trendy home design design in Baltimore
Example of a trendy home design design in Baltimore

Bold Brass accents and marble flooring style this bathroom feminine classic with a touch of vintage elegance.
This glamorous Mountain View ensuite bathroom features a custom crisp white double sink and lit mirrored vanity, crystal Knobs, eye catching brass fixtures, a warm jet soaking tub and a stylish barn door that provides the perfect amount of privacy. Accent metallic glass tile add the perfect touch of modern masculinity in the corner stand up shower and tub niches, every inch of this master bathroom was well designed and took new levels to adding stylish design to functionality.
Budget analysis and project development by: May Construction

Budget analysis and project development by: May Construction, Inc. -------------------- Interior design by: Liz Williams
Inspiration for a large contemporary l-shaped light wood floor and brown floor eat-in kitchen remodel in San Francisco with a single-bowl sink, flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, quartzite countertops, beige backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and gray countertops
Inspiration for a large contemporary l-shaped light wood floor and brown floor eat-in kitchen remodel in San Francisco with a single-bowl sink, flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, quartzite countertops, beige backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and gray countertops

Custom design build home on corner lot facing south, across street from an open space park. Project required sun and wind exposure analysis to assist with energy efficiency and maintaining a cool interior space during the hot summer months. Includes an atrium with north facing window fascade engineered to be shaded during the summer months.

The pre-renovation structure itself was sound but lacked the space this family sought after. May Construction removed the existing walls that separated the overstuffed G-shaped kitchen from the living room. By re-configuring in the existing floorplan, we opened the area to allow for a stunning custom island and bar area, creating a more bright and open space.
Budget analysis and project development by: May Construction

Budget analysis and project development by: May Construction
Example of a mid-sized minimalist 3/4 white tile ceramic tile and gray floor bathroom design in San Francisco with shaker cabinets, black cabinets, a one-piece toilet, gray walls, an undermount sink, granite countertops, a hinged shower door and gray countertops
Example of a mid-sized minimalist 3/4 white tile ceramic tile and gray floor bathroom design in San Francisco with shaker cabinets, black cabinets, a one-piece toilet, gray walls, an undermount sink, granite countertops, a hinged shower door and gray countertops

Budget analysis and project development by: May Construction, Inc. -------------------- Interior design by: Caitlin Campbell.
Mid-sized trendy light wood floor wine cellar photo in San Francisco
Mid-sized trendy light wood floor wine cellar photo in San Francisco

Budget analysis and project development by: May Construction
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary 3/4 white tile and ceramic tile ceramic tile and gray floor bathroom remodel in San Francisco with raised-panel cabinets, brown cabinets, a one-piece toilet, white walls, an undermount sink, quartzite countertops and white countertops
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary 3/4 white tile and ceramic tile ceramic tile and gray floor bathroom remodel in San Francisco with raised-panel cabinets, brown cabinets, a one-piece toilet, white walls, an undermount sink, quartzite countertops and white countertops

Raza and Baneen purchased their home in Schaumburg IL. knowing it needed work, but they saw the incredible potential it had with its expanse of beautiful kitchen windows and spacious floor plan.
The kitchen technically functioned fine, but was desperately outdated with its honey oak cabinets and plain countertops. This family loved to cook and host parties so it was an easy decision that the kitchen remodel was the first project they needed to tackle to make their home come to life.
Baneen had very specific ideas for her new dream kitchen and had been thinking about it for over 10 years! When they met Advance Design’s Project Designer Claudia Pop, Baneen felt an instant connection.
“From the first meeting, I knew that Claudia would guide us without putting down our ideas,” Baneen said.
The couple had two fears common among remodeling home owners: Would the project be done on time? And, would the project stay on budget? Advance Design was able to alleviate their fears early on, as Claudia shared the “Common Sense Remodeling” process. Raza and Baneen absolutely loved the custom project analysis that helped them understand how a budget could be accurately predicted and then safeguarded during the design process.
“Advance Design was spot on with both the budget and the project timeframe,” Baneen said. “Overall there were no surprises, and the budget was exactly what we were quoted. The experience was phenomenal, everybody was professional, everybody was courteous, everyone was nice, everyone was friendly. It wasn't stressful for us, they still left the house in a presentable state. It wasn't like we would come home and we were bring the kids in and it was going to be hazardous."
After the relationship was cemented, Raza, Baneen and Claudia began to finalize the kitchen design. The main objective was to create a functional space for preparing meals and to create an inviting space for their family and friends to enjoy, while incorporating interesting design elements such as the iconic blue island and reclaimed Chicago brick walls. Sufficient storage space was really important to Baneen, and high quality appliances were a priority. As the overall layout was being completed, together they reviewed each cabinet to determine exactly what would be stored there.
Because cooking was a high priority for this family, Claudia incorporated spice racks close to the range and included two mixer lift shelves for their larger countertop appliances.
The focal point of the kitchen is the striking blue island constructed from custom colored Dura Supreme cabinets. Designed with decorative shelving and a highly functional prep sink. The couple loves the “galley” prep sink, it adds even more functionality and significantly shortens preparation and cleaning time. This island also includes a 24" Bosch Dishwasher with matching panel to blend in.
"Aesthetically, and in terms of functionality, the island everything I imagined," Baneen said. "I love how beautiful it looks and how functional it is. It just brings everybody together."
The Praa Sands Quartz countertop with an ogee edge profile provides excellent contrast by blending it's subtle tones with the outer cabinetry. It ties the island together with the rest of the space. Overlooking the beautiful backyard through spacious windows, the crisp white farmhouse sink is something that Baneen envisioned in her kitchen for years.
Two tones of Dura Supreme Cabinetry were used throughout the rest of the kitchen. Chestnut Cherry cabinets grace the range and decorative range hood and as panels over the Wolf refrigerator and freezer. Antique White cabinets surround the perimeter, creating a warm balance that beckons guests into the softly rounded space.
Drawing the eye immediately to the custom wood hood hiding a powerful 1,500 CFM ventilation system and spectacular 60” Duel Fuel Wolf range, a creatively patterned Tessen in Café & Brine backsplash detail stands out from the white subway tile backsplash spanning the outer walls. The vibrant space reflects the lively personality of the family who now loves spending time both cooking and enjoying this kitchen as a family.
“The end result is a beautiful and extremely functional kitchen that is able to handle a growing family, lots of parties and lots of cooking,” Claudia said.
“Advance Design was wonderfully professional and a pleasure to work with. They catered to what my needs and ideas were, while skillfully guiding us to make the right choices where we seemed lost,” Baneen said.

The Team’s design approach was determined by the careful analysis of the space and the architectural composition of the building. In fact, we talk about an architecture that is based on simple but striking lines, on raw materials but, at the same time, refined and modeled for the needs of the customer.
The harmonious communication between interior and exterior was made through the selection of the color palette and the choice of iconic Baxter products. Baxter is synonymous with the highest quality. Each product is handmade by skilled craftsmen who create real works of art, with the best Italian leathers.
Cold tones, clean lines and modular furnishing accessories: these are the main features behind the project.

Neutral comfortable colors now cover the walls, stunning stained barn doors and a large kitchen island highlights the length of the room and the openness of the space which connects the new living room and dining room. The center island features a prep sink and a casual spot for family dining, creating a warm, cheery environment perfect for entertaining.
Budget analysis and project development by: May Construction
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