This basement apartment transformation by HouseHome reimagines a compact lower-level residence into a vibrant “Modern Collector’s Cottage” for a single woman seeking a home that feels electric, expressive, and deeply personal. Designed to celebrate individuality, the space was curated as a true copy-and-paste reflection of the client’s personality, blending her extensive collections, hobbies, and memorabilia into a cohesive, highly stylized interior. The result is a bright, playful, and elevated living environment that seamlessly unites design, modern comfort, and emotional storytelling. The design challenge centered on organizing and showcasing meaningful memorabilia, while blending multi-generational gifts, keepsakes, sports mementos, posters, and artistic collections into a space that still felt intentional and uncluttered. Through layered materials, bold color moments, mixed textures, and thoughtful spatial planning, HouseHome created a home that feels bubbly, surprising, and beautifully curated—never chaotic, always cohesive. Every surface, storage solution, and display moment was designed to support both visual impact and daily functionality. This project exemplifies HouseHome’s expertise in eclectic interior design, small-space living, and collector-focused styling, proving that high personality and high design can coexist in perfect balance. The finished apartment is now a joy-filled, organized, and an inspirational retreat that celebrates life, memories, and personal expression while delivering luxury-level styling in a highly livable form.

This office was created for the Designer Showhouse, and our vision was to represent female empowerment. We wanted the office to reflect the life of a vibrant and empowered woman. Someone that’s busy, on the go, well-traveled, and full of energy. The space also reflected other aspects of this woman’s role as the head of a family and the rock that provides calm, peace, and comfort to everyone around her. We showcased these qualities with decor like the built-in library – busy, chaotic yet organized; the tone and color of the wallpaper; and the furniture we chose. The bench by the window is part of our SORELLA Furniture line, which is also the result of female leadership and empowerment. The result is a calm, harmonious, and peaceful design language. --- Project designed by Montecito interior designer Margarita Bravo. She serves Montecito as well as surrounding areas such as Hope Ranch, Summerland, Santa Barbara, Isla Vista, Mission Canyon, Carpinteria, Goleta, Ojai, Los Olivos, and Solvang. --- For more about MARGARITA BRAVO, click here: https://www.margaritabravo.com/ To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.margaritabravo.com/portfolio/denver-office-design-woman/

This basement apartment transformation by HouseHome reimagines a compact lower-level residence into a vibrant “Modern Collector’s Cottage” for a single woman seeking a home that feels electric, expressive, and deeply personal. Designed to celebrate individuality, the space was curated as a true copy-and-paste reflection of the client’s personality, blending her extensive collections, hobbies, and memorabilia into a cohesive, highly stylized interior. The result is a bright, playful, and elevated living environment that seamlessly unites design, modern comfort, and emotional storytelling. The design challenge centered on organizing and showcasing meaningful memorabilia, while blending multi-generational gifts, keepsakes, sports mementos, posters, and artistic collections into a space that still felt intentional and uncluttered. Through layered materials, bold color moments, mixed textures, and thoughtful spatial planning, HouseHome created a home that feels bubbly, surprising, and beautifully curated—never chaotic, always cohesive. Every surface, storage solution, and display moment was designed to support both visual impact and daily functionality. This project exemplifies HouseHome’s expertise in eclectic interior design, small-space living, and collector-focused styling, proving that high personality and high design can coexist in perfect balance. The finished apartment is now a joy-filled, organized, and an inspirational retreat that celebrates life, memories, and personal expression while delivering luxury-level styling in a highly livable form.

SANTA BARBARA, CA / DUPLEX RESIDENTIAL This urban infill, artist loft duplex was located in an overlooked, but well-located, light-commercial zone. It was also the first new residential construction built in the area for decades, the project is located within a 10-square-block area zoned for light-commercial and affectionately dubbed the “Funk Zone” by resident artists and city planners. Only two blocks walking distance to the beach, and a similar distance to the downtown commercial district, this pedestrian-oriented project ideally suits the lifestyles of the owners. Although the two units share equal footprints, the southerly unit features a double-height, north-facing living space. The northerly unit supplants this volume with additional living space. The siting also allows for secure private courtyard entries, maximization of natural light and view-swept, rooftop living space. The design incorporates a raised plinth required by flood zone restrictions to create a peaceful, intimate environment within the somewhat chaotic surrounding context. The disciplined and restrained approach towards the building’s image was intended to make reference to the much-loved Meridian Studios by George Washington Smith. Two roof-decks with outdoor fireplaces and shade trellises extend outdoor living space, contribute ocean and mountain views and provide both refuge and release. Cost-effective materials were selected in order to adhere to the strict budget and to relate to the industrial surroundings. Over-sized pivot doors, “industrial” staircases and cabinetry were constructed on-site by the owners to conserve design integrity within the extremely limited budget. 2000 AIA Santa Barbara Chapter Honor Award

This kitchen was designed around one hero moment: that blue patterned tile behind the range. Crisp white cabinetry and soft gray counters keep things grounded, while layered styling and warm wood accents add personality. Clean, tailored, and just bold enough to feel intentional — not chaotic.

Dining Room in Trailside View | Refined Transitional Home in Scottsdale, AZ | Room Type: Whole Home Remodel and Furnishings | Project Name: Trailside View Residence | Key Feature: A full home remodel and furnishings project anchored by white oak cabinetry and countertops, where the clients gave Living with Lolo real creative freedom to play with bold fabrics, wallpapers, and drapery that most homeowners would talk themselves out of. Challenge: Transitional design can play it safe by default, neutral palette, inoffensive finishes, nothing that makes you catch your breath. The remodel needed a strong foundation that felt refined and timeless, but the clients wanted more than that. They wanted a home with personality, and the challenge was channeling that creative openness into something cohesive rather than chaotic. Solution: Living with Lolo used white oak cabinetry and countertops to ground the remodel in warmth and quiet sophistication, then let the soft goods carry the personality. Bold fabric choices, expressive wallpapers, and thoughtful drapery gave each room its own moment without losing the thread that connected the whole home. Because the remodel and furnishings were managed together under one roof, the bolder design choices landed the way they were intended to rather than feeling like afterthoughts layered onto a finished renovation. Materials: White oak cabinetry, white oak countertops, curated wallpapers, bold upholstery fabrics, custom drapery, and layered accessories sourced through Living with Lolo's trade relationships. Budget: $250,000 to $550,000 | Timeline: Approximately 5 to 9 months from design through completion.

Bedroom in Trailside View | Refined Transitional Home in Scottsdale, AZ | Room Type: Whole Home Remodel and Furnishings | Project Name: Trailside View Residence | Key Feature: A full home remodel and furnishings project anchored by white oak cabinetry and countertops, where the clients gave Living with Lolo real creative freedom to play with bold fabrics, wallpapers, and drapery that most homeowners would talk themselves out of. Challenge: Transitional design can play it safe by default, neutral palette, inoffensive finishes, nothing that makes you catch your breath. The remodel needed a strong foundation that felt refined and timeless, but the clients wanted more than that. They wanted a home with personality, and the challenge was channeling that creative openness into something cohesive rather than chaotic. Solution: Living with Lolo used white oak cabinetry and countertops to ground the remodel in warmth and quiet sophistication, then let the soft goods carry the personality. Bold fabric choices, expressive wallpapers, and thoughtful drapery gave each room its own moment without losing the thread that connected the whole home. Because the remodel and furnishings were managed together under one roof, the bolder design choices landed the way they were intended to rather than feeling like afterthoughts layered onto a finished renovation. Materials: White oak cabinetry, white oak countertops, curated wallpapers, bold upholstery fabrics, custom drapery, and layered accessories sourced through Living with Lolo's trade relationships. Budget: $250,000 to $550,000 | Timeline: Approximately 5 to 9 months from design through completion.

Our masterfully constructed French Antique locker organizes the most chaotic entryway or mudroom in style by keeping everything within easy reach: coats, schoolbags and hats can be easily hung on the hooks and smaller items hidden in the cabinet. Choose the exact size needed for your entryway. Our benches provide the ideal sitting spots and extra storage in their drawers, and our optional mirrors guarantee that you are ready for the day!

This time of the year can be chaotic, so here’s one of our favorite home upgrades that actually makes life easier: Putting a Murphy bed in your home office, living room, or wherever you have the space doubles the use of that room without adding any square footage. Think of it as a mini renovation that has a massive impact! Visit our website to learn more: InspiredClosetsVT.com

Dining Room in Trailside View | Refined Transitional Home in Scottsdale, AZ | Room Type: Whole Home Remodel and Furnishings | Project Name: Trailside View Residence | Key Feature: A full home remodel and furnishings project anchored by white oak cabinetry and countertops, where the clients gave Living with Lolo real creative freedom to play with bold fabrics, wallpapers, and drapery that most homeowners would talk themselves out of. Challenge: Transitional design can play it safe by default, neutral palette, inoffensive finishes, nothing that makes you catch your breath. The remodel needed a strong foundation that felt refined and timeless, but the clients wanted more than that. They wanted a home with personality, and the challenge was channeling that creative openness into something cohesive rather than chaotic. Solution: Living with Lolo used white oak cabinetry and countertops to ground the remodel in warmth and quiet sophistication, then let the soft goods carry the personality. Bold fabric choices, expressive wallpapers, and thoughtful drapery gave each room its own moment without losing the thread that connected the whole home. Because the remodel and furnishings were managed together under one roof, the bolder design choices landed the way they were intended to rather than feeling like afterthoughts layered onto a finished renovation. Materials: White oak cabinetry, white oak countertops, curated wallpapers, bold upholstery fabrics, custom drapery, and layered accessories sourced through Living with Lolo's trade relationships. Budget: $250,000 to $550,000 | Timeline: Approximately 5 to 9 months from design through completion.

Jeffrey Court The Press - Features classic mosaic designs that are simple, clean and fresh. Chapter 14 is a simple, yet impactful line rich in historical inspiration that touches every major metropolitan area. Inspired by newsrooms from the early 1900’s where the environment was chaotic but the architecture and design was simple, clean, and fresh – just like the news coming off the press.

The shower seats/shelves, sill, counter, and niche sills are all topped with Bordeaux Viana granite. The linear flow perfectly compliments the similar linear pattern of the Sahara Sand tile and also contradicts the chaotic shapes and sizes of the Kayan River Pebble mosaic, creating a wonderful mix of aesthetics. Kim Lindsey Photography

This 1982-built Portland bathroom remodel completely reimagined the original chaotic layout. Now, the space has updated design, modern finishes, custom details and maximized functionality.

Bathroom in Trailside View | Refined Transitional Home in Scottsdale, AZ | Room Type: Whole Home Remodel and Furnishings | Project Name: Trailside View Residence | Key Feature: A full home remodel and furnishings project anchored by white oak cabinetry and countertops, where the clients gave Living with Lolo real creative freedom to play with bold fabrics, wallpapers, and drapery that most homeowners would talk themselves out of. Challenge: Transitional design can play it safe by default, neutral palette, inoffensive finishes, nothing that makes you catch your breath. The remodel needed a strong foundation that felt refined and timeless, but the clients wanted more than that. They wanted a home with personality, and the challenge was channeling that creative openness into something cohesive rather than chaotic. Solution: Living with Lolo used white oak cabinetry and countertops to ground the remodel in warmth and quiet sophistication, then let the soft goods carry the personality. Bold fabric choices, expressive wallpapers, and thoughtful drapery gave each room its own moment without losing the thread that connected the whole home. Because the remodel and furnishings were managed together under one roof, the bolder design choices landed the way they were intended to rather than feeling like afterthoughts layered onto a finished renovation. Materials: White oak cabinetry, white oak countertops, curated wallpapers, bold upholstery fabrics, custom drapery, and layered accessories sourced through Living with Lolo's trade relationships. Budget: $250,000 to $550,000 | Timeline: Approximately 5 to 9 months from design through completion.

In this backyard space, the design challenge was to bring the essence of the California Mountains to Redondo Beach. As this client is an avid outdoorsman, he wanted to bring the a feel of the Sierra Nevada mountains, his happy place, home to create his very own backyard mountain retreat. Our team sourced materials that one would find in the mountains of California whilst keeping a lounge feel in mind for the secondary design criteria, a retreat. In this retreat, we created four distinct areas: the lounging area with covered pergola, fire pit area with built-in seating bench and overhead trellis complete with carnival lighting, central waterfall, and barbeque area with picnic table and overhead carnival lighting. We built a 10” x 10” rugged pergola was built out of sustainably sourced pine. The massive posts feel as though large pine trees were harvested right out of the California Mountains and crafted right on-site. The pergola was built with a retractable shade cloth so the sun can be let in for warmth in open during the colder months. The pergola and the other hard-scaped areas in the backyard were covered with a mix of gray granite and charcoal pavers. This color selection is reminiscent of the colors in California granite. Walking north from the pergola toward the fire pit area there is a mass planting of deer grasses, assortment of ferns and California coffee berries planted to mimic California Chaparral. At the other edge of this chaparral garden, sits the Cresta Boulder fire pit. Boulders were used to create this fire pit to harness the feeling of being outdoors in the wilderness. The boulders were locally sourced out of the Sierra Nevada mountain range for authenticity. In order to frame the space we installed a trellis and off the trellis runs carnival lights for night time parties. Just beyond the fire pit sits a granite boulder water fall. The waterfall is placed so that wherever you are in the yard you can see and hear the tranquil sounds of the babbling water as it circulates and recycles. The barbeque area is nestled against the backdrop of a dark green fernleaf podocarpus hedge. During the day, birds and butterflies traverse the native foliage and at night the sounds of the fire pit dance in harmony with the gentle sounds of water falling down granite pebbles making this backyard a true retreat from the chaotic noise of the city.

With a total interior space of 14'X24', we aimed to create maximum efficiency by finding the optimal proportions for the rooms, and by locating all fixtures and appliances linearly along the long back wall. All white cabinets with stainless steel appliances and hardware, as well as the overall subdued material palette are essential in creating a modern simplicity. Other highlights include a curbless shower entry and a wall-hung toilet. The small but comfortable bath is suffused with natural light thanks to a generous skylight. The overall effect is a tranquil retreat carved out from a dense and somewhat chaotic urban block in one of San Francisco's most busy and vibrant neighborhoods.

This project centered on helping a wonderful client and her equally fantastic dog transform her condo into a space that truly reflected her style and simplified her life. Eager to create a home that was both beautiful and functional, she envisioned a haven in the heart of the city. Before: Feeling Disconnected Before the renovation, our client felt disconnected from her condo. The builder-grade kitchen was a constant source of frustration, with an awkward peninsula that hindered the flow of the space. The condo overall felt outdated and no longer captured her vibrant personality. The foyer and laundry areas were cramped and lacked organization, while the mismatched hardwood flooring only added to the disjointed atmosphere. As for the bathrooms, they felt frozen in time, desperately needing an update. Worries and Concerns Like many homeowners, our client had heard her fair share of renovation horror stories—tales of projects gone awry and the frustrations of managing multiple contractors. She was understandably cautious and needed a trustworthy, experienced team she could rely on to handle the project with care and expertise. The Solution: A Personalized Transformation We took the time to listen carefully to our client’s needs and concerns and developed a tailored plan to address each of her pain points. For the kitchen, we preserved the existing layout but reimagined the space entirely. The awkward peninsula was redesigned to improve traffic flow and provide much-needed storage and counter space. Clever storage solutions, such as pull-outs, shelving, concealed drawers in the toe kicks, and an appliance garage, were incorporated. The kitchen now boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, with light wood-tone lower cabinetry, off-white upper cabinets, and brushed nickel hardware that ties it all together. The laundry room, once cramped and chaotic, was transformed into an organized, efficient space. We added custom cabinetry with pull-outs for hanging clothes, open storage above, a laundry sink, and a spacious counter for folding—no more piles of laundry! Both the en-suite and shared bathrooms underwent complete renovations. Custom cabinetry was installed, including a floor-to-ceiling linen closet, and light grey and brown-toned tiles were selected, with contrasting hexagonal tiles for the shower floor. A heated flooring system was added for luxury and comfort year-round. The mismatched flooring throughout the condo was replaced with cohesive vinyl and porcelain tiles, creating a seamless, modern aesthetic throughout the space. Overcoming Challenges As with any renovation, there were challenges to navigate. One of the key obstacles was managing the condo board’s renovation rules and policies while coordinating the delivery schedules for finishes and fixtures, especially during the busy holiday season. With careful planning, we ensured the project stayed on track. Additionally, we encountered a height variation between the tile and vinyl flooring. To resolve this, we used self-leveling material under the vinyl, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition between the two flooring types. The Grand Reveal: A Dream Come True The final result is simply stunning. The kitchen is now a chef’s dream, with custom-built cabinets, smooth quartz countertops, and a matching stone backsplash. Brushed nickel and stainless steel plumbing fixtures, elegant cabinet hardware, and LED lighting under the upper cabinets add the perfect finishing touches. Custom organizers in the foyer and laundry closets provide ample storage and keep everything neatly in place. The bathrooms have been transformed into spa-like retreats, with beautiful porcelain tiles and custom cabinetry. The new vinyl flooring throughout the main living areas and bedroom unifies the space, creating a cohesive and modern atmosphere. Life Transformed Our client’s life has been completely transformed. As a passionate cook, she now relishes spending time in her beautiful and functional kitchen. The single-bowl sink makes cleanup a breeze, and the thoughtfully designed storage solutions have brought a sense of calm and order to her home. The refreshed flooring and neutral paint palette have created a relaxing, comfortable environment she truly loves. A Memorable Journey This project was more than just a renovation—it was a collaboration. Our client valued our guidance throughout the design process, particularly when faced with the overwhelming number of decisions. We built a strong relationship with her, and we are immensely grateful for the trust she placed in our team.

Living Room in Trailside View | Refined Transitional Home in Scottsdale, AZ | Room Type: Whole Home Remodel and Furnishings | Project Name: Trailside View Residence | Key Feature: A full home remodel and furnishings project anchored by white oak cabinetry and countertops, where the clients gave Living with Lolo real creative freedom to play with bold fabrics, wallpapers, and drapery that most homeowners would talk themselves out of. Challenge: Transitional design can play it safe by default, neutral palette, inoffensive finishes, nothing that makes you catch your breath. The remodel needed a strong foundation that felt refined and timeless, but the clients wanted more than that. They wanted a home with personality, and the challenge was channeling that creative openness into something cohesive rather than chaotic. Solution: Living with Lolo used white oak cabinetry and countertops to ground the remodel in warmth and quiet sophistication, then let the soft goods carry the personality. Bold fabric choices, expressive wallpapers, and thoughtful drapery gave each room its own moment without losing the thread that connected the whole home. Because the remodel and furnishings were managed together under one roof, the bolder design choices landed the way they were intended to rather than feeling like afterthoughts layered onto a finished renovation. Materials: White oak cabinetry, white oak countertops, curated wallpapers, bold upholstery fabrics, custom drapery, and layered accessories sourced through Living with Lolo's trade relationships. Budget: $250,000 to $550,000 | Timeline: Approximately 5 to 9 months from design through completion.

How to Tell When a Design Trend is Timeless Design trends come and go, but some styles withstand the test of time. Whether in architecture, interior design, or branding, timeless design is one that remains relevant and appealing for decades. But how can you tell if a trend is truly timeless or just a fleeting fad? Here are key indicators to help you identify designs that will never go out of style. 1. Simplicity Over Complexity Timeless designs are often clean, simple, and functional. They avoid excessive ornamentation or gimmicky elements that might feel outdated in a few years. Classic materials, neutral color palettes, and well-balanced proportions contribute to a look that remains fresh over time. 2. Rooted in Functionality If a design prioritizes function as much as form, it is more likely to endure. Practicality and usability should be at the core, ensuring that the design continues to serve its purpose efficiently. In construction, for example, well-planned layouts and durable materials contribute to long-lasting appeal. 3. Inspired by Nature Natural elements, such as stone, wood, and earth tones, have always been a staple of timeless design. Since nature itself is everlasting, incorporating organic textures and colors helps create a look that never feels outdated. 4. Influenced by History, Not Hype Timeless designs often take cues from historical influences that have proven their longevity. Architectural styles like mid-century modern, classical, and industrial remain relevant because they have strong foundations in design principles rather than passing fads. 5. Balanced and Harmonious Composition Good design follows fundamental principles such as symmetry, proportion, and scale. If a trend maintains a sense of balance and harmony, it’s more likely to stand the test of time. Designs that feel chaotic or unbalanced tend to fade quickly as they become overwhelming or impractical. 6. Adaptability Across Different Eras A timeless design is versatile enough to blend with evolving styles and trends. Whether paired with modern elements or classic details, it should integrate seamlessly without looking out of place. 7. Enduring Materials and Craftsmanship Materials and craftsmanship play a major role in a design’s longevity. High-quality materials like marble, hardwood, and concrete age beautifully, while cheap, synthetic alternatives often deteriorate and lose appeal. Investing in quality ensures a long-lasting impact. 8. Avoiding Overly Trendy Details Fads are often characterized by extreme variations in color, form, or material. If a design heavily relies on a specific moment’s aesthetic (like neon colors in the '80s or millennial pink in the 2010s), it will likely feel outdated once the hype fades. 9. Emotional Connection and Comfort Timeless design tends to evoke a sense of comfort, nostalgia, or familiarity. Whether in architecture, web design, or fashion, people gravitate toward designs that make them feel at ease and connected to something meaningful. Conclusion The key to identifying a timeless design trend is recognizing qualities that prioritize longevity, function, and balance over fleeting hype. Whether designing a website, a home, or a brand identity, choosing elements that are simple, high-quality, and adaptable will ensure lasting appeal. Do you want a design that stands the test of time? Let’s create something that never goes out of style!