Ask me anything in the submission box below!
About design, business, personal.. whatever you choose! I’ll answer at least one question every week!
ASK AMY | MAY 27, 2020
Q: What is your least favorite trend right now?
A: I’d have to go with painted accent walls. It use to be the trend to do one colored wall behind your bed, or just the full wall of cabinetry is a color in the home office, etc. But I’m glad we’ve started to part from that the last couple of years. Now it’s go big or home go home, right? Wash the entire room in a contrasting paint color! I love when clients are even bold enough to take it as far as the baseboards and casing + ceiling and doors in that room as well! It really takes the room from feeling like it might have something to say, to this room has a purpose! Now I know the picture you’ve all painted in your mind is a dark and moody space, but really any paint color will do! It can still feel “bright” and “airy” and be a different color. Let most of your interior walls be white sure, but don’t be afraid to switch it up from space to space here and there!
ASK AMY | MAY 20, 2020
Q: Could you share the tape you used for hemming curtains with us again? And maybe some tips on how to do it?
A: Yes of course! So if you aren’t familiar with what this question is referring to, here’s the deets. In my last project with Aspyn and Parker, we were looking at drapery for their living and dining room. Unfortunately the length these rooms called for was an odd size, so we opted for drapery panels that were too long rather than too short. Now, I’ve gotten this question a couple times: “Couldn’t you just let them pile on the floor? I’ve seen it done and it doesn’t look bad.” And my answer is yes you can do that, it’s just a style preference. We generally like a more tailored look when it comes to window coverings, so we like our drapes to “kiss the floor,” as they call it in the design world. Sometimes this calls for a trip to the seamstress for a bit of hemming. But this time I offered my very professional DIY services to help save on cost and time.
The product that I used to DIY “hem” the curtains is a very sticky double sided fabric tape. You can find it in just about any craft store, but we purchased ours through Amazon. To start, I would measure out the length from the top of your curtains (while hanging on the rod) to the floor. Then lay your panel flat on the floor. ( Make sure you’ve already ironed or steamed them so they won’t stretch any more ). Find that same measurement and fold the bottom of the curtain up to that point (on the backside of your panel). Next I would highly recommend you use some pins to lock that fold in place. You could even take your iron and steam over the bottom to create a new crisp line. Lastly, take your tape and begin removing one side of the paper as you press the tape along one side of the curtain. Continue this all the way across your panel until you’re ready to remove the paper from the other side and press it firm into your new fold. Your curtains will be ready to hang immediately and nobody will know the difference! Hope this helps!
ASK AMY | MAY 13, 2020
Q: What does your ideal client look like?
A: If I could dream up my own version of an ideal client, they would likely have no budget haha. I actually don’t mind working with budgets. I find the challenge of sourcing pretty products for a reasonable price, a lot of fun. But there are times when budgets restrict us from taking our designs to the next level. It can be hard not to feel like some projects are holding us back from what we can really do, if that makes sense. But that’s just the name of the game. And I understand every project will have a budget!
Other attributes my ideal client would posses are trust. I’ve come to learn that projects have the best outcome when clients are willing to let their designer take the reigns. We will still always make the process very collaborative. But it’ when they want to jump in and take control that things can go south. The process is really fun and I admire those clients who are excited to get involved, but they have to remember they are not the designer, and they hired us to do the work. I’ve been squeezed out of meetings where decisions were made without my approval, just to save a buck. And to be honest, those are areas of the home we end up not even photographing.
And of course, plenty of other little things like paying invoices on time, great communication, a positive attitude, appreciation and respect, etc. Above all we just want to feel valued for our hard work! We want clients we can get along with so when the process gets stressful, we can lean on one another.
ASK AMY | APRIL 29, 2020
Q: What type of sofa do you recommend if we have dogs/cats at home?
A: My best recommendation would be a sofa in a microfiber fabric! Microfiber is a super tight weave fabric which holds up great to pets! And better yet, the fabric is soft, wrinkle resistant, somewhat water resistant and allergen-proof. West Elm has some great options, we’ll link our favorites below!
You could also try a leather sofa but just be aware, scratches will happen. If you don’t like the look of a very worn in couch this might not be the option for you. If you’re all about the character and natural aging, then go for it friends!
ASK AMY | APRIL 15, 2020
Q: How do you work with someone’s budget if it’s very small. And what’s your favorite place to buy for budget projects?
A: Great question! I’ve learned that many clients feel afraid to share their budgets with you. And perhaps that’s out of fear of them thinking it’s too small to work with. But small budget projects are always doable! When I first began designing on my own, I was hired by Sonder to design multiple of their vacation units. And I was given a VERY small budget to furnish + decorate every 2-3 bedroom apartment. Did they turn out extremely high-end? No. Did they include a lot of alternative options that I wasn’t as excited about? Yes. But I still include many of them in my portfolio!
It’s all about getting creative.
Many people fall into the trap of thinking that for a small budget project, EVERYTHING needs to be inexpensive. Not true! Don’t be afraid to splurge on a few of the bigger or more showcase pieces and save everywhere else. If you buy an Ikea dinning table + dining chairs, it’s going to look Ikea. But if you buy the Ikea dining table and splurge on some nicer dining chairs, the space suddenly looks more high end.
My other tip would be to go hunting. Scouring websites like eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and Etsy is a great way to find unique + affordable pieces! I would even recommend paying a visit to your local antique + thrift shops! You’d be amazed what you can find sometimes. And even if you’re unable to snag the larger furniture pieces you need, these are great places to stock up on accessories from! Simple dishes to style kitchen shelves, or used books to fill a bookcase. Keep an open mind as you look and come up with creative ways to repurpose what you see.
Additionally, there are many great ways of making a large impact for a modest budget. Things like paint, simple millwork, or wallpaper can do wonders for a once basic room. Updating light fixtures, switching out hardware, adding window treatments and artwork to the walls are all impactful ways of improving the look of a space for less.
Along those same lines, it’s so extremely important to mix up your sources! If you buy everything from the same store, the home is going to look more like a showroom for that company than it does a home. Shop a handful of items from a handful of places to keep the space from looking too uniform. Ikea, Target, World Market, Wayfair, HomeGoods, Walmart, Amazon, Urban Outfitters, can all be great resources for inexpensive home items. But keep an eye out for sales happening at your other favorite stores too! Places like Pottery Barn, West Elm, etc. participate in many helpful sales each year! Good luck!
ASK AMY | APRIL 8, 2020
Q: My boyfriend and I bought a house and need to paint all the walls and cabinets white. Would it look okay to paint the cabinet and walls the same white?
A: First of all, congratulations! Second of all, 100% yes! We’ve done this for plenty of projects when clients are wanting everything to feel crisp and white. Although we usually will buy the same color in different finishes. For the walls we love to use an eggshell or satin finish. And for cabinets we always go with a semi-gloss! The two together will have a beautiful subtle contrast that obviously pairs well (given they’re the same color ha). Have more questions about paint? You can download our free guide by clicking here! We go over how to select a paint color, we give you our favorite colors, talk about selecting finishes and answer our most commonly asked questions about paint. Hope that helps!
ASK AMY | MAR 25, 2020
Q: What item in your home sparks the most joy?
A: If I’m being honest, it’s my built-in dining cabinet full of my favorite collected pieces. It displays so many of my favorite items. Some are from our own shop, some are antiques I’ve purchased world-wide, other’s were special gifts. They all hold meaning and a significant memory. Albert Hadley once said, “A room should feel collected, not decorated.” And I’ve learned a home doesn’t feel complete without all of the small things that bring you joy. That could be a painting, your favorite books, anything really! Just don’t forget to display them in a beautiful way so you can cherish them every day. Remember, trends come and go but the things you love will always be in style.
ASK AMY | MAR 11, 2020
Q: I have a beautifully preserved 1952 ranch home in an established urban neighborhood: How do I work with a HUGE floor-to-ceiling knotty pine room with large windows and a brick fireplace. Your designs are so beautifully light and airy. Is it possible to bring that into the heavy wood space that functions as a living and dining room? Thanks!
A: Well first of all, you’ve done such a good job of painting such a pretty picture of your home, I can only imagine it’s beauty and potential! Give me all the large windows and brick fireplaces. My answer to you is YES! It is possible to make your knotty pine filled space feel fresh and airy. But let’s talk about all of your options just in case!
Embrace Them.
I still think you can create a fresh + modern look, even with your knotty pine wood walls. What’s going to be most important here is furniture selection. Try sticking with lighter colors (especially for larger pieces like a sofa, rug, etc). For extra dimension, try adding some new architectural detailing like the additional wood pieces (above) that create a board and batten look. Possibilities are endless! It just may take some researching and Pinterest board making to start.
Stain Them.
If your knotty pine wood walls are really orange in color, you might try staining them! Even a more natural looking brown color would be pretty. But if it’s the light and airy look you’re after, giving them a white wash is a great option too! This will help preserve its natural character by still allowing the wood grains and knots to show through. It’s definitely a more modern take on a ranch style home but I’m all about it!
Paint Them.
And if you’re heavy wood space is just ready for a facelift, paint them paint them paint them! I don’t think this option will make your preserved ranch home feel any less preserved. In my opinion, the character still most definitely shines through. Whether you go white, gray or blue, it doesn’t matter! You can bring the warmth back in through beautiful wood furnishings and decor. It’s the items you fill your space with that will make it feel like home.
ASK AMY | MAR 4, 2020
Q: I was wondering if you could post some inspiration for salt cellar/oil station thing next to the stove? I’ve been wanting to put a little station together but can’t find great inspiration, and everything I’ve tried just looks so crowded. I like the look of empty counters, with things placed that look like they’re on purpose and it’s so hard to do!
A: This is such a fun question. I love when I can hunt down design inspiration for you all! Although I admit, It was hard to find good inspiration for cute oil station styling, like you said! But hopefully these images will help. Just remember to start with a tray to ground and corral your accessories! Might I suggest this cute Reclaimed Wood Footed Pedestal we just got in at our shop? Love! Then layer in your most used cooking essentials. Oils, salts and spices, butter, garlic, utensils, whatever it may be! The key here is to find the products that will make these items look cute while still being functional! I.e. a butter keeper, oil dispenser, salt cellar, ceramic crock, etc. Don’t overcrowd it though! Pick a few necessities and stick to those and only those. Good luck!
ASK AMY | FEB 26, 2020
Q: What do you think about the NCIDQ? Worth it as a designer?
A: Yes and no. So let’s talk about both answers!
I obviously deem schooling and education highly important for any career that’s medical, scientific, educational, etc, etc. But when it comes to artistic careers, I don’t feel that school is always necessary. And mainly because it wasn’t the right answer for me. Let’s just put this point blank. Some of us humans are artistic, some of us aren’t. We’re all different! And if you’ve got the artist’s eye, there really isn’t much schooling can do for you. I lasted about two months in design school before I realized it would be a looonng time before my professor would be teaching the things that I actually needed to learn. Painting color wheels to learn about color theory felt so basic and a waste of my time and money. So I opted for internships and hands on learning. Yes, there were many things I had to research on my own, but I got there a lot faster. Which is exactly what I needed! I didn’t need a step by step walk through, given that I already had the eye for design.
If you are trying to learn a new craft, get your schooling. If I, with no musical abilities whatsoever, wanted to learn the piano... There’s NO WAY I would last on my own! Trying to teach myself would last about one week before I gave up. But if I took piano lessons and had the right person to guide me in my learning, there’s no doubt I could pick it up. So this topic feels like a loaded question to me, since it’s such a personal journey and there’s a different answer for everyone. But life is about self discovery so discover what you need and will work best for you!
And if you live in Nevada, Florida or Louisiana, sorry but NCIDQ is required ha.
ASK AMY | FEB 19, 2020
Q: Hi Amy I absolutely love your work, I’m an interior designer looking to start my own business, but don’t know how to get clients, any recommendations? Thank you!!
A: First of all, thank you!! That means a lot. And there are a couple things I would say to focus on when it comes to starting your business. The first is to start small. Work on your own home, your friends home, whatever project you can get your hands on! Some of my first portfolio work was of my family and friend’s homes that I did for free. And the second thing is to market yourself, market yourself, market yourself. I would say my Instagram page played a huge role in me booking clients from the beginning. I may not have had a lot of photos of my own work to share, but I shared a lot of inspiration photos that reflected my style (always tagging proper credits of course). This allowed potential clients to get a good feel for my eye for design.
In all, just be patient! Success doesn’t come over night. And it’s most likely going to be YEARS before you’re booking the kind of projects you’ve always dreamed of doing. Work your lil tushy off and you’ll get there… I promise!
ASK AMY | FEB 5, 2020
Q: What is the biggest thing you want to accomplish this year for your business?
A: If I were to have answered this question last January, I would have had an entire list ranging from business operations, team members, projects / clients, social media and more. But this year, more than anything, I will be focussing on self care. In 2019, I burnt myself to the ground. I’ve never experienced so many emotional breakdowns, anxiety attacks and sheer fatigue in my life. My work ethic and lack of sleep led me to mono, among mainly other illnesses and my poor husband put up with so much computer time, late nights at the office and playing cook and house keeper. I was all about the grind, until eventually it caught up to me. It took me almost three years of operating a business before I realized how much harm it was doing not only to myself, but to those around me as well. I’ve done a lot of personal reflection since then, reminding myself that Ames Interiors was never built to be the best design firm, to have the most employees or projects, to make me the most money, etc. It’s never been about those things! And yet, this whole time I’ve been working as if that were my goal all along. Ames Interiors is an extension of my passion in life! Therefore, I should never dread going into work again. How do I plan to do that? Lots of self care and creating a balance between my job and my personal life.
There are always things I’ll be aiming to achieve sure, but these goals stem from personal aspirations I’ve always had. They’ll never come from me trying to “beat” someone else or prove myself to others in the industry. So whether I’m still at this in ten years and have a major name for myself, or get caught looking back at the “good old times” as I chase my children around the house, it doesn’t matter. What matters to me is that I spent my time doing something I LOVED, not something that molded me into someone I didn’t care to be.
ASK AMY | JAN 29, 2020
Q: If you could give an aspiring interior designer any advice, what advice would you give her?
A: This answer may sound so basic but study and practice! First, study everything you can about design. Take classes or find courses that are going to help you learn the necessary software programs. Watch Youtube videos or read through blogs and other online resources that will teach you the necessary basics. Things like taking measurements, calculating square footages, etc. etc. Make Pinterest boards of interiors that inspire you and study them! Ask yourself what about these spaces make them so great and research everything you can about what it takes to replicate certain design features. Learn everything there is to know about plumbing, electrical, finish work, etc! And then practice, practice, practice. Because this career field is 50% knowledge and 50% creativity. And the best way to feel confident in your design abilities is through repetitive practice. Make mood boards, ask to style your sister’s house, remodel your own space, whatever it takes! Just keep at it! Your personal style will develop and the experience will come.
ASK AMY | JAN 22, 2020
Q: Do you DIY things that you put into homes or do you buy everything?
A: I will never DIY anything for a project and that’s a fact! Haha I could never trust myself to bring anything into my client’s home that was hand-made by me. They pay good money for it to turn out looking professional and well-done, therefore I would never want to jeopardize that. BUT when I comes to my own home, I would gladly take on a DIY! I’ve refinished furniture, made arrangements and wall decor, sure! We plan to DIY a few things in our new home and office space that I will gladly show more of on instagram and the blog! But we do not consider ourselves design bloggers like Chris Loves Julia, or Room For Tuesday. They have mean skills when it comes to doing things yourself! Our firm on the other hand feels much more comfortable hiring things out. Moral of the story: we focus on client projects more so than our own around here!
ASK AMY | JAN 8, 2020
Q: What are some popular design trends that you would try to steer your clients from doing?
A: First, this question might prompt the most backlash but remember these are my personal opinions and I would never want to offend you or your homes! Second, although I do try to persuade my clients in a lot of ways (mainly trying to commit them to trying something they’ve never seen, would have never thought to do, etc.) I also want their home to be a representation of them. So if they have a strong opinion about something, I would never force them into it. That said, I think I’ll answer this question as if you had asked what design trends I’d steer clear of if I were building a custom home right now.
1: Black Windows.
We all know they’ve been such a popular choice in design for the last few years. But I personally feel more drawn to a classic white window frame. To me, it’s timeless, less stark of a contrast and seems to be the less “tiresome” option, if you will.
2. Black Accents.
Since we’re on the subject of color. I’d also refrain from too many black accents. You know like black faucets, black hardware, black lighting fixtures, furniture, etc. Instead, I find myself more drawn towards light and bright colors. Brass, polished nickel and any shade of white or neutral.
3. Contrasting Trim.
Here’s something we’ve seen done here and there, but it’s expected to make an even bigger come back in the world of interiors this year. And although I do love a subtle contrasting trim, I would never personally go with a darker paint color.
4. All White Walls.
Although I would like the majority of my home’s walls to be white, I would never do white walls everywhere. I’d mix it up with a few rooms with color and others with wallpaper. I’d like it to feel as though each space has character, not like my entire house is the same.
5. Geometric Art.
Anyone who knows me well knows that the only art in my home are original antique oil paintings (and one digital scan of an original antique oil painting)! I like my art to have a history, a story, a purpose. Therefore, geometric style prints are not my forte.
6. Accent Walls.
Go big or go home, that’s my motto! Therefore, if I’m feeling the need to accent a room with millwork, wallpaper or a bold paint color, I’m going to do it everywhere!
I’m sure there are others, but that’s all I can think of for now. Who knows, maybe by the time I’m actually building my custom dream home, all of this will change! I guess we’ll wait and see!
ASK AMY | JAN 1, 2020
Q: What’s one of your favorite holiday traditions?
A: My husband Jace and I started a new tradition of cutting down our own Christmas tree this year and I can already tell it’s going to be our favorite part of the holidays. We had so much fun driving to the mountains and hunting for the perfect tree! Even cutting it down and tying it to the top of our car was a blast! We stopped for dinner on the way home and coming out to a huge pine tree strapped to the roof was such a fun sight. From dragging it into the house, hoping we cut it in just the right spot and decorating every limb, it was so magical. I would 100% recommend that every human do this. It smells good, looks pretty and you’ll create the most fondest of memories doing it. Hope you all had a wonderful holiday season!
ASK AMY | DEC 18, 2019
Q: What’s a dream project of yours that you have yet to do anything like it?
A: Love this question! I would actually really love to do some more commercial work. A boutique restaurant or retail store would be really fun! But my major dream project is a boutique hotel! Even if I have to buy one myself and remodel it before I retire, I will make it happen! Haha.
ASK AMY | DEC 11, 2019
Q: What’s your favorite part of the design process?
A: I would say there are two parts of the design process that I love the absolute most. The first is designing cabinetry! There’s nothing more satisfying to me than to be given an empty floor plan and then being able to create the very first elevations that will set the tone and foundation for the rest of the home. Considering that most of this job is done behind the computer, I really enjoy the time I get to spend with a pencil and paper, crafting new ideas. It’s definitely the part of the process I feel the most creative! And secondly, install. After months (sometimes years) of designing, there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing it all come together. Install days are especially fun because that’s when we get to bring in all the accessories and begin styling. And that’s when I REALLY feel in my element.
ASK AMY | NOV 27, 2019
Q: Loving this new blog platform! But I’m curious about previous blog posts you’ve done. Will they show up here again at all?
A: Great question! We have a number of old blog posts we’d like to revive. Especially our most popular subjects like, “How To Buy Furniture That Will Stand The Test Of Time,” “Addressing Small Spaces,” “How To Shop Vintage 101,” “Eight Design Mistakes That Are Making Your Home Look Cluttered,” “How To Create A Hygge Like Home” and others! We plan to re-create these same posts in an even better, more informative way and post them back here for you to enjoy! And just like before, we are always open to topic ideas! If you have a subject you’d like to dig into on a deeper level than this Q&A page, we’d love to create it for you so let us know!
ASK AMY | NOV 20, 2019
Q: What about shiplap? I feel like it just seems so on trend and not really a classic move but I could be totally wrong? I am just so surprised to see so many designers still using it when I feel like it’s already had its moment.
A: I’d like to address this question (and any others like it) by just quickly addressing “trends.” I always tell my clients not to worry so much about what’s “trending” and to focus more on what speaks to them personally. Because you’re right, styles will come and go. And sometimes we may tire of looks we’ve seen done over and over again. But if YOU love white kitchen cabinets, then paint them white! Despite the current trend that says dark and moody kitchens are back. And if you can’t stand to see another wall of shiplap, ain’t no one forcing you to use it in your own home! Focus on what you like more so than what other’s are doing and you’ll have the classic + timeless home you’ve always dreamed of!
But since you asked for my opinion I have to say… I will always love a well done paneling. Or any type of decorative millwork for that matter! I really do believe that when done tastefully, finish work (on walls or the ceiling) can really elevate the look of your design. It can add depth, texture and character to a space.
ASK AMY | NOV 13, 2019
Q: I’ve been finding myself getting tired of grey exteriors and grey cabinetry. Would you say it’s a trend that is on its way out?
A: You and I both, friend. Remember not too long ago when gray kitchen cabinets were THE THING? Now, I wouldn’t necessarily say that nobody is doing gray anymore. Nor would I go as far as saying I would never “pin” a great gray exterior or kitchen to my Pinterest... In fact, I have! And I’ll continue to do so. And should I have a client that’s dying to paint something gray, I’ll gladly take the challenge! But I would definitely say that those of us who are trying to push the envelope in design, are trying to get more creative with our color selections. I think the reason you and I are feeling the most tiresome of the color gray is because of how ‘cool’ it is. We all want our homes to resinate as cozy, inviting and calming. And gray, not done well, can just feel cold. Not what we want! So what are my favorite gray alternatives? Glad you asked ;)
GO GREIGE
This mix between gray and beige is the PERFECT alternative! It’s a subtle off-white color that still gives you lots of warmth. Our favorite! Make sure to check out today’s reveal for the greige paint color we used in the #fortvillaproject craft room!
GO GRAY-BLUE
Or even a gray-green! These are a great options if you’re looking for something with COLOR. We like that the gray undertones are what literally “tone” the color down, keeping it still pretty neutral and subtle. Like the #fortvillaproject kitchen island!
GO DARK
If you’ve found yourself drawn to darker grays like “Wrought Iron” or “Kendall Charcoal,” try taking it one step further! Don’t be scared of black. It’s bold and moody, but still very timeless. We used it in the #fortvillaproject (reveal coming soon)! Basically, we approve.
ASK AMY | NOV 6, 2019
Q: What are some Instagram accounts you enjoy following? Doesn't have to be related to design..
A: Love this question! I follows so many design accounts that offer me daily inspiration and motivation in my career. But there are plenty of other accounts that bring me joy, knowledge or a good laugh that I value just as much! Here are a few I’ve been loving lately…
I literally feel happy the second I reach Jenna Kutcher’s feed. Her photos literally capture joy and she radiates light, energy and positivity. Not only is she the caption queen, but she’s a successful business owner and coach to all. I’ve learned a lot from her ‘Goal Digger’ podcast. She owns it in literally everything she does and everything she is. Inspired daily by her confidence in being 100% herself.
Marisa is the makeup artist I hired for my wedding. She is just as lovely in person as she is talented! I love her neutral and natural inspired makeup looks. She is also great about sharing how she creates the looks you see on her feed. Which is sooo helpful for people like me who have zero talent when it comes to makeup. I trust every product she shares and have loved the items I’ve purchased from her recommendations.
Jenna is not a self proclaimed interior designer, but she is building a home and I’ve loved following her journey! You HAVE to go get a peek at their English country inspired home! They’re living the farm life I’ve always dreamed of and in my own state! Jenna also speaks about important worldly topics and I love her confidence in sharing her voice and views. She’s a wonderful momma and fun to follow!
Suzy Holman. She is a daily reminder for me that I do not have to take life and business so seriously! She makes mundane tasks seem fun, she’s utterly hilarious and also a powerhouse business owner of MULTIPLE six figure business. She’s probably the most “real” person on instagram right now. And although I’m not a mom yet, I enjoy watching her momma triumphs and fails. Because trust me, she shares them all!
ASK AMY | OCT 30, 2019
Q: I want to remodel my main living areas but don’t have a huge budget. Where would you splurge and save?
A: I would suggest splurging on the more concrete areas of the home. For example, cabinetry, countertops, tile. Options like hardware, mirrors, lighting, etc. can easily be switched out and upgraded down the road. As far as furniture goes, spend good money on the pieces you want to last the longest. I always push clients to invest in a good sofa and quality rugs!
ASK AMY | OCT 23, 2019
Q: At what height should your kitchen island pendants hang above island, and then same for dining table light? What is the golden rule?
A: Ah, I love a quick and easy answer! The bottom of your light fixtures should hang no more or less than 30 - 36” from the countertop. Following this rule will ensure that you have enough negative space to be able to carry on a conversation with your guests. While also helping you keep a balanced visual spacing of the room’s other design elements.
ASK AMY | OCT 16, 2019
Q: What is your most favorite way to do an accent wall in a modern/traditional house? Wallpaper, trimmed out wall, etc?
A: For a home with a modern/traditional style, may we suggest the following options:
WALL PANELLING
Our favorite way to accent the walls of a home. Decorative panelling creates such a luxe look! Especially when it’s subtle. Skip the accent color and let your design speak for itself. It’s sure to bring an extra layer of texture, depth and drama to your space. And the options are endless!
WALLPAPER
To best compliment this style, try a subtle wallpaper. A traditional pattern or pretty floral in soft hues would be perfect! And don’t be afraid to extend your “accent wall.” We love a good powder bath, dining room, kid’s space or laundry room in head to toe wallpaper.
GALLERY WALL
Have you thought to do a gallery wall? Photos are the perfect way to accent a blank wall. Plus, they add such a personal touch and charming feel to your home. For a more traditional look, try using the same size and same colored frame. The repetitiveness is simple, yet refreshing!
ASK AMY | OCT 9, 2019
Q: If you can’t afford to do wood floors in your kitchen/living area - what flooring would you suggest?
A: Let me first suggest engineered bamboo. Have you heard of it? A nice quality bamboo flooring can be just as durable as a traditional hardwood floor. Although, it’s much more susceptible to scratches and dings. So if it’s just a “filler” option you’re looking for, this might be your best bet for now. You get the look of hardwood (no laminate fans over here) but for a fraction of the cost!
Otherwise, have you considered tile? It’s my personal opinion that this option is becoming less and less odd for these main living areas. Just throw some chunky rugs down and viola! There are so many great and affordable tile options out there, the possibilities could be endless for you! But here’s some inspiration just incase you need a boost.
