When it comes to finding inspiration for your house or apartment design, there are a variety of routes you can take. For some, it is important to dive into the latest trends in fashion and art, using only the most popular decor pieces and embracing the color palettes seen on runways or in home and garden magazines. But for others, it’s simply about discovering what feels most like “home.” Ashley Steele, the creator of A Styled Affair, was part of the latter group. “Since my husband and I were moving into a space that was previously owned, I needed a way to make it feel like it was truly ours, and unique to us,” she told our team. A Styled Affair sprang from Ashley’s passion for fashion, and need for a creative outlet. But it soon became more than that. She developed a following, and it quickly became a place where she could share her personal style, travel adventures, and lifestyle tips. “While the blogging industry has become overwhelmed with people sharing their favorite home decor or make-up tips, I think what sets A Styled Affair apart is my commitment to stay true to my unique taste. I have always marched to the beat of my own drum – and that carries through in the clothes I wear, the decor I select for our home, and the travels I plan.” Paintzen connected with Ashley as she was settling into her new home in Boston’s Seaport District. Although she and her husband have lived in Boston for almost 8 years, they were used to smaller, more traditional spaces. Their new home is much bigger, and more modern, than any place they lived before. “I wanted to select colors of comfort, simplicity, and sophistication so we could elevate the space and make it feel more like a home.” Ashley also accurately pointed out that new construction can sometimes feel a little cold and sterile, almost industrial. “I wanted our home to feel like a peaceful oasis after coming in from the bustling city.” Ashley chose soft white paint for her walls to bring a sense of comfort and zen. With lots of wall decor, art work and carefully selected furniture, the walls serve as a clean and comfortable palette, and allowed her more freedom when making her other design decisions throughout the space. Ashley kept the overall palette fairly neutral, and incorporated “modern bohemian” inspired decor throughout the home; the final product was clean and simple, and catered to her style. We asked Ashley what she was most excited for now. “I’m most excited to continue to find new decor pieces to compliment the paint colors and decor we’ve already found for the space. We have been really patient with decorating and selected each piece really careful to make sure it is cohesive and flows from room to room. I’m looking forward to enjoying the space with my husband and dog, and entertaining friends and family in the spring and summer!” A few final questions for Ashley on her experience with Paintzen: “I would highly recommend Paintzen to anyone, especially those that live in the city. There are so many different paint companies and contractors to choose from but going through Paintzen simplified the process and made me feel comfortable that we had the right team working on our space. Their platform for booking services and choosing paint colors made the process seamless and was a great way to keep track of what we booked and chose for colors. Most importantly, the customer service team was outstanding whenever we had a question or needed to make an adjustment.” And advice she would give someone repainting their home: “Patience. I would recommend taking your time and doing your research before selecting paint colors. Lighting changes every color so make sure to bring paint swatches and samples into the space and look at it throughout the day to see the different tones that the light will pick up. I would also recommend researching color trends and recommendations for colors in the family you are looking for. We found our living room color through a blog post listing top-used colors by interior designers and it looks amazing.”

Firm: Design Group Three Designer: Alan Freysinger Cabinetry: Greenfield Cabinetry Photography: Jim Tschetter IC360 Images Veteran kitchen designer Alan Freysinger worked closely with the Fox Point, WI homeowners on this kitchen. Admittedly, not afraid of color, the homeowner loved Alan's suggestion of adding the wood veneer to the mix of cabinetry, adding an additional layer of interest and the addition of texture. Design Group Three, together with custom Greenfield Cabinetry, stepped up the living pleasure of this Fox Point family's home. When this kitchen remodel was first underway, the homeowner envisioned a blue kitchen (orange was her 2nd choice!). She went to the paint store & found blues she liked, taped those color samples to the kitchen wall & one by one she and her husband whittled down their choices to the color blue you see now! From Milwaukee to Chicago, clean lines are much desired in today's kitchen designs. Design Group Three hears many requests for Transitionally styled kitchens such as this one. Want a pop of orange? blue? red? in your kitchen? Milwaukee's Design Group Three can custom match any color in paint (or stain!) for cabinetry in your home, as we did in for this blue kitchen in Fox Point, WI. Not sure if you are up for this much color in your kitchen? Begin with remodeling a bathroom vanity with a pop of color, live with it for a while & then, if you decide it's for you too, call in Design Group Three & we'll work with you to uncover your perfect color palette. Can you imagine this same kitchen in orange? This Fox Point, WI homeowners preliminary vision for her kitchen remodel walked the line between orange & blue! Blue kitchens are completely on trend in today's kitchens! According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association, Transitionally styled kitchens, such as this blue one, are the most commonly requested design genre. In fact, in 2012, for the first time ever since the NKBA started keeping track, Transitional beat out Traditional as the most requested style by homeowners. What exactly is affordably luxury? You are witnessing it in these photos. Discover it via Milwaukee's Design Group Three & Greenfield Cabinetry. Transitional Style (also known as "updated classic", "classic with a contemporary twist", "new takes on old classics") in interior design & furniture design refers to a blend of traditional and contemporary styles, midway between old world traditional & the world of chrome & glass contemporary; incorporating lines which are less ornate than traditional designs, but not as severely basic as contemporary lines. As a result transitional designs are classic, timeless, and clean. Lucky, lucky kitchen. Greenfield Cabinetry's interpretation of Midwestern Modern. Seasoned Design Group Three designer & owner, Alan Freysinger's design details take their cues from your lifestyle, as reflected in this transitionally styled kitchen. "The general color trend is a move toward bolder, crisper colors as a reflection of the 'anything goes' culture we live in now." - Jonathan Adler, Designer

A Kentucky Derby-inspired sitting room, Holiday House NYC, 2014. Interior design: Patrick James Hamilton Designs; Photo: Jody Kivort.
Inspiration for a transitional open concept light wood floor living room remodel in New York with gray walls

Heidi Pribell Interiors puts a fresh twist on classic design serving the major Boston metro area. By blending grandeur with bohemian flair, Heidi creates inviting interiors with an elegant and sophisticated appeal. Confident in mixing eras, style and color, she brings her expertise and love of antiques, art and objects to every project.

Peter Murdock
Example of a trendy living room design in New York with no tv

Door Color: Equilibrium T18-20 Exterior House Color: Soft FOcus T18-20
Example of a white exterior home design in Orange County

Michael Partenio
Inspiration for a coastal bathroom remodel in Boston with marble countertops, gray cabinets, shaker cabinets, gray walls and a drop-in sink

Color Trends 2015 'Quiet on the Set' residential interior featuring architectural detail, carved arches, sectional sofa, float rug, modern coffee table and pendant light. Color A (Walls): Pink Damask OC-72, Natura, Eggshell. Color B (Ceiling and trim): Chantilly Lace OC-65, Natura, Semi-Gloss.

Gemini sectional - With black and white, it's all about the contrasts with various textures for interest.
Inspiration for a contemporary living room remodel in Phoenix

Color Trends 2015 'Ground Yourself in Green' residential interior featuring kitchen cabinets, dining table and chairs. Color A (Cabinets): Antique Jade 465, Advance, Semi-Gloss. Color B (Ceiling): Seahorse 2028-70, Regal Select, Flat. Color C (Door): Timothy Straw 2149-40, ADVANCE®, Semi-Gloss

Color Trends 2015 'California Cool' residential interior featuring Saarinen tulip dining table and chairs, pendant light, glass doors to exterior patio and pool. Color A (Right Wall): Harbor Fog 2062-70, Regal Select, Matte. Color B (Left Wall): Patriotic White 2135-70, Regal Select, Matte.

Dominique Vorillon
Study room - transitional freestanding desk study room idea in Los Angeles with gray walls

Design/Build Firm: Lee Kimball Photo Credit: Emily O'Brien
Family room - transitional family room idea in Boston

Inspiration for a mid-sized timeless medium tone wood floor enclosed dining room remodel in New York with blue walls and a standard fireplace

Dura Supreme creates Crestwood Cabinetry with a thoughtful balance of materials, construction and styling options to deliver exceptional value with exceptional design. Built-in manufacturing economies ensure cost effective construction, consistent quality and craftsmanship. Upon this foundation, an impressive array of finishes, door styles, and unique, space-saving accessories fulfill even the most artistic and discerning tastes. Painted cabinetry is a timeless and classic look and with transitional styling surging in popularity, painted cabinetry is more popular than ever before. White painted cabinetry is a classic choice and works with so many different style preferences, from traditional to transitional and contemporary. Although white paint is the most popular choice, homeowners and designers are designing with shades of white and gray to blend beautifully and seamlessly throughout an entire home. Request a FREE Dura Supreme Cabinetry Brochure Packet at: http://www.durasupreme.com/request-brochure

Photo by Mary Costa
Inspiration for a contemporary galley open concept kitchen remodel in Los Angeles with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, green cabinets, marble countertops, white backsplash, ceramic backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and black countertops

richard leo johnson/atlantic archives
Family room - eclectic medium tone wood floor family room idea in Atlanta with white walls

A captivating transformation in the coveted neighborhood of University Park, Dallas The heart of this home lies in the kitchen, where we embarked on a design endeavor that would leave anyone speechless. By opening up the main kitchen wall, we created a magnificent window system that floods the space with natural light and offers a breathtaking view of the picturesque surroundings. Suspended from the ceiling, a steel-framed marble vent hood floats a few inches from the window, showcasing a mesmerizing Lilac Marble. The same marble is skillfully applied to the backsplash and island, featuring a bold combination of color and pattern that exudes elegance. Adding to the kitchen's allure is the Italian range, which not only serves as a showstopper but offers robust culinary features for even the savviest of cooks. However, the true masterpiece of the kitchen lies in the honed reeded marble-faced island. Each marble strip was meticulously cut and crafted by artisans to achieve a half-rounded profile, resulting in an island that is nothing short of breathtaking. This intricate process took several months, but the end result speaks for itself. To complement the grandeur of the kitchen, we designed a combination of stain-grade and paint-grade cabinets in a thin raised panel door style. This choice adds an elegant yet simple look to the overall design. Inside each cabinet and drawer, custom interiors were meticulously designed to provide maximum functionality and organization for the day-to-day cooking activities. A vintage Turkish runner dating back to the 1960s, evokes a sense of history and character. The breakfast nook boasts a stunning, vivid, and colorful artwork created by one of Dallas' top artist, Kyle Steed, who is revered for his mastery of his craft. Some of our favorite art pieces from the inspiring Haylee Yale grace the coffee station and media console, adding the perfect moment to pause and loose yourself in the story of her art. The project extends beyond the kitchen into the living room, where the family's changing needs and growing children demanded a new design approach. Accommodating their new lifestyle, we incorporated a large sectional for family bonding moments while watching TV. The living room now boasts bolder colors, striking artwork a coffered accent wall, and cayenne velvet curtains that create an inviting atmosphere. Completing the room is a custom 22' x 15' rug, adding warmth and comfort to the space. A hidden coat closet door integrated into the feature wall adds an element of surprise and functionality. This project is not just about aesthetics; it's about pushing the boundaries of design and showcasing the possibilities. By curating an out-of-the-box approach, we bring texture and depth to the space, employing different materials and original applications. The layered design achieved through repeated use of the same material in various forms, shapes, and locations demonstrates that unexpected elements can create breathtaking results. The reason behind this redesign and remodel was the homeowners' desire to have a kitchen that not only provided functionality but also served as a beautiful backdrop to their cherished family moments. The previous kitchen lacked the "wow" factor they desired, prompting them to seek our expertise in creating a space that would be a source of joy and inspiration. Inspired by well-curated European vignettes, sculptural elements, clean lines, and a natural color scheme with pops of color, this design reflects an elegant organic modern style. Mixing metals, contrasting textures, and utilizing clean lines were key elements in achieving the desired aesthetic. The living room introduces bolder moments and a carefully chosen color scheme that adds character and personality. The client's must-haves were clear: they wanted a show stopping centerpiece for their home, enhanced natural light in the kitchen, and a design that reflected their family's dynamic. With the transformation of the range wall into a wall of windows, we fulfilled their desire for abundant natural light and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Our favorite rooms and design elements are numerous, but the kitchen remains a standout feature. The painstaking process of hand-cutting and crafting each reeded panel in the island to match the marble's veining resulted in a labor of love that emanates warmth and hospitality to all who enter. In conclusion, this tastefully lux project in University Park, Dallas is an extraordinary example of a full gut remodel that has surpassed all expectations. The meticulous attention to detail, the masterful use of materials, and the seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics create an unforgettable space. It serves as a testament to the power of design and the transformative impact it can have on a home and its inhabitants. Project by Texas' Urbanology Designs. Their North Richland Hills-based interior design studio serves Dallas, Highland Park, University Park, Fort Worth, and upscale clients nationwide.

Saguaro (Sherwin-Williams SW 6419) – This hue brings together consciousness, craft and culture of a diverse global community. The verdant green can add an earthy element to a bright color palette or jazz up a neutral scheme.