Living Room with Stunning Views

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The original living room was stark and all white and my clients wanted a warm and inviting feel from the front door that looks directly into the living room.  The fireplace surround and hearth was retiled with a warm natural stone and a new custom mantel now provides the space for decorative items. New window coverings add to the warmth of the space and provide coverage for all the new furnishings during hot summer days.  The new large sectional, cocktail table, area rug and sitting chair provide ample space for my clients to entertain and enjoy the beautiful view. I created a custom paint wall color and used Champagne on Ice for the ceiling and trim.


Bright and Airy Kitchen Remodel

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The original kitchen had blue painted cabinets and simply needed a refresh.  New cabinets and appliances were installed and a wider peninsula island was created for the cooktop placed and to have ample room for bar stools across from it.  The back splash mosaic tile, a new center island and new lighting make this a modern kitchen. Adjacent to the cook area is now a built in desk space and extra storage.  The custom window seats were made to fit in the corner dining area and now this comfortable space is where the family starts the day. I created a custom paint color for the walls and Champagne on Ice was used on all the ceilings and trim throughout the house.

BEFORES & AFTERS



The Perfect Family Room

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This family loves to be together while watching TV and the custom J. Redmond sectional was designed to sit all their friends and family and the Maxwell upholstery fabric was selected for its clean ability and durability for any accidental spills and stains.  The custom upholstered ottoman with a wood center top is the perfect solution for the center of the sectional. And the custom TV cabinet by Old Biscayne anchors the wall and has amble storage below. The one of a kind shell lamp by Currey & Co. sets the tone for all the movie watching evenings.

Dining in Elegance- A Before & After

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This home was completed in spring of 2018 and my client’s family decided it was their dream home so to create long term memories and it was in the perfect location since their 10 year old son didn’t have to change schools nor friends and they all love the clean modern aesthetic.  The couple has stressful careers and wanted a sanctuary to retreat to after a long day. They love to entertain and the eight and a half foot long custom Old Biscayne dining table can sit several friends and family comfortably. The Pindler modern chenille upholstery fabric is the star of the room and the wood Antrim custom area rug sets off the entire table and chairs!

Zen Bathroom Remodel by Kathy Banak

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My clients two teenage son’s bathroom went through a transformation with the addition of a walk in shower and vanity cabinet instead of a pedestal sink.  The Stasser vanity in a light grey color has plenty of storage for both boy’s with the addition of a medicine mirror and ample lighting with the Quoizel light bar. The Authentic Home Greystone Light paint color definitely enhances the lightness and brings a modern touch to this small bathroom!

Beautiful Spa Like Bath Remodel by Kathy!

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My client wanted a tranquil bathroom and her master bath went thru a huge transformation just with the change of the paint color from a vibrant red to the Authentic Home Dove Grey.  The layout wasn’t functional for my client to bathe every night so I change the location of the toilet so that the shower and tub was the focal point upon entering the very small bathroom. The custom Furniture Guild vanity and crystal vanity light bar make this a unique and elegant small bathroom!



Kathy's Recent Project- Kitchen Before & After!

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My client purchased this 100 year old Craftsman style home when she was raising her family and was excited to update and personalize it to reflect her personal style.

The initial undertaking was the flooring since it was original to the home and has some holes in it that couldn’t be repaired.  DuChateau luxury vinyl tile, LVT, was the final flooring choice since my client was considering renting out the house once her youngest was out of high school and LVT is very durable and waterproof.  The light grey color tones of the LVT works well with the Authentic Home Dove Grey paint color that is throughout the main floor, both bedrooms and bathrooms. The kitchen cabinet doors were resurfaced and quartz Grey Savoie countertops and backsplash and new Top Knobs hardware bring the space much needed lightness while adding a bit of a feminine touch. A new side counter top was added during the remodel for additional storage and to have the flexibility of sitting on bar stools.  The clean white modern table and clear acrylic chairs finish the space with a light and airy feel suitable for any gathering. And the new range and hood along with the farm house white porcelain sink make this a wonderful kitchen to create meals and entertain in.




Timeless Design | How to Achieve "that" Look

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Because Interior Design is an ever-evolving industry, it can sometimes feel overwhelming to keep up with what’s trending– especially since a beautiful design can be a long-term investment. However, there are some essentials to Interior Design that will never age themselves, remaining timeless and classic in your space. This home, designed by Kathy Banak, is the perfect example of how to achieve a quality, classic interior that will evolve with the ever-changing times of the design industry.

Classic Design: 5 Essentials to Achieving A Timeless Look

1. Window Treatments. One of the most influential and easiest ways to give your space a completed look is by adding window treatments. Choosing rich fabrics and quality craftsmanship is key- it truly will give your home the classic, quality look you’re going for.

Image Source: Nina Hendrick, Online

Image Source: Nina Hendrick, Online


2. Organic Natural Finishes. The first thing you see when looking at this beautiful kitchen is the richness in the quartz countertops.

Image Source: Granite Gurus, Online

Image Source: Granite Gurus, Online

3. Soft, Bright Color Palette. Choosing the right color palette for your home is key when designing your space. Since we reside in Washington which is gloomy most of the year, it is essential to select colors that feel bright and airy even during the darkest months. Rich, fresh upholstered details bring a sense of cohesiveness to this charming family room.

Image Source: Editorial Ink, Online

Image Source: Editorial Ink, Online

4. Accessorize All Of Your Spaces. It’s the little things that make a big difference. Does your hallway or foyer have an alcove perfect for a side table and some ambient lighting? It is these spaces that work perfectly to debut your favorite pieces.

Are you looking to revamp your space and not sure where to start? Contact Kathy Banak at Authentic Home for a consulatation.



Spa-like Guest Bedrooms

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Zen spa decor is quintessentially calm and peaceful. It is often a favorite decorating scheme for homeowners seeking a relaxing appearance for their bedroom spaces. By incorporating a nature-inspired color palette, luxurious bedding elements and calming accessories, this design is fairly easy to create for a bedroom that looks and feels like a sanctuary retreat in the comfort of one's own home.

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Natural Colors

Use cool colors. Increase the spa-like feel of the room with a cool color palette that features blue and green. Paint the walls a soft, blue color to simulate the look of water, known for its calming properties. Add an area rug in light green, and place it at the foot of the bed to help anchor the space. A green rug gives the room an illusion of grass, which is a nature-inspired choice to add to the calm environment. Lastly, select white bedding, window treatments and furniture pieces to create a simplistic, Zen-like appearance to the room.

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Bed Textiles

Incorporate simple bedding. Zen bedrooms are often minimal in design, so reflect this with a comforter set that is streamlined. Avoid patterns, as they can create a space with visual clutter. Choose styles with tone-on-tone piping details to give the set a bit of style without being too fussy. Select white bedding to complement the spa feel of the room. Add a bit of luxury with high-thread-count sheets in solid white to give the bedding a pampered, spa look and feel. Finish the Zen spa bedroom with two soft, fluffy robes draped on the end of the bed for a relaxing and calming appearance to the entire decor.

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Minimal Clutter

Organize the bedroom. Clutter is to be avoided on all counts in a Zen spa environment. Use organizational tools to get clutter down to a minimum. Place shoes in a hanging shoe rack in a closed closet. Purchase organizing, closet clothes systems for a more functional closet space. Use under-the-bed storage boxes or plastic containers to store items not used on a daily basis, such as seasonal clothing. A clutter-free room is inherently more peaceful, adding to the visual appeal of the Zen spa space.

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Ultra Violet: 2018 Pantone Color of the Year

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Rich and pensive, Ultra Violet is reminiscent of existential energy, the mystery of what the future holds, and the new discoveries of the past and present. It reminds us of the night sky, dark but endless, full of mystery.

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Why Pantone Chose this Color

With everything happening in our world at the present moment, Pantone color researchers thought it necessary to remind ourselves of our sheer presence on earth and the vast endlessness of our atmosphere. Ultra Violet is cosmic, rich, and timeless.

Our Favorite Ultra Voilet Uses in Interior Design

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1. Using rich purples make a bold statement as an accent. This gorgeous bedding truly brings forth a timeless, rich look to this elegant bedroom. Rich purples tend to pop when placed in an otherwise neutral color scheme. 

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2. Even the tiniest purple accents in a space can make a very bold statement. This otherwise very white bathroom stands out with just the pop of color of its hand towel. 

3. Ultra Voilet in Commercial Design. There's no doubt the guests who visit this elegant restaurant will never forget the gorgeous, sophisticated upholstery on the dining chairs. What a statement!

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Ultra Violet in Fashion

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Reminiscent of the Victorian Era followed by the 1920's rich purples always manage to make a fashion comeback. We are seeing this beautiful hue in every aspect of the runway, from hair color to couture. The beauty of this otherwise considered feminine color is that it truly works for both genders and truly makes a haute statement!

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ELLE Decor: What's Trending for Fall 2017

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What we're seeing a lot of for fall design trends consists of organic decor, eclectic old timey products, and vibrant color schemes. 2016's gray palettes are starting to fade away (no pun intended) as more saturated colors are being seen on the forefront.  According to ELLE Decor, warmer color palettes are becoming very popular.

Beautiful bright green and blue color schemes are making their comeback, and we're seeing boldly painted furnishings, wall colors and decor that really make a statement coming to fruition on the design front. One timeless way into which you can implement a timeless look is through collecting old novels and stacking them under your favorite decor pieces to create height and weight.

A fun way to jump into fall trends is by implementing old fashioned pieces into your space. We love scouring antique stores and rummage sales to find the perfect piece for a focal point. This old wall sconce is a gorgeous piece that would look beautiful in any room in the home. 

Warmer colored metallic pieces are all the rage in the design world this year. Bronzes, brass and golds are being seen in both designer commercial and residential spaces. You can implement this look through the use of throw pillows, accessories, and lighting. 

Why Handmade Designs Are the Bee's Knees

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There's nothing quite like having company over and receiving compliments on a unique decor item you have in your home. Owning a piece of handmade craftsmanship is like owning someone's true passion and skill. Being the only one in the world with their unique design has its specialness, too. 

It's all the rage at Highpoint this year to own live edge tables and other furnishings reminiscent of their prior organic state, and we can see why. These beautiful unique pieces are not only a conversation piece, they are elegant, timeless, and well, natural.  Finding a local artisan who can design these beautiful products isn't always easy; you can however, find unique pieces that aren't custom made for your space all over online. Gotta thank technology!

There are unique pieces like the ones pictured above that are both elegant and timeless and won't break the bank . You can find crafts like these at your local art fairs and farmers markets. Etsy is a great place to find unique artisan pieces as well.

Living in the Pacific Northwest allows us to find pieces of artisan work reminiscent of our natural surroundings. Driftwood frames like the one pictured above are a beautiful beachy way to bring the outdoors in.

Having a unique piece of handmade craftsmanship is not only a special way to add a focal point to your space, it helps support your local craftsmen as well!

Brass is Back! Where We're Seeing It in the Design World

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Remember when brass was considered dated, old and 80's-90's? Well, this is no longer the case. We thought we would never see this shiny metallic make its comeback, we were wrong, and it's made its comeback stronger than ever! We're seeing it applied to all surfaces, large and small in some of the most elegant ways.

Accessorizing with brass and gold colors truly makes an elegant statement against the current color palettes that are trending. While we remember seeing brass hardware against forest green and burgundy backdrops in the 90's, we are now seeing it paired in conjunction with beautiful blues, grays, and even orange hues.

It's not just shiny, polished metallics we are seeing on the forefront. Rustic metals reminiscent of earlier years. Beautiful lighting fixtures, photo frames and accessories with aged finishes make for an elegant timeless look and will never date themselves as time progresses.

Plumbing and cabinet hardware are definitely leaning towards the warmer metallic tones and we can see why. This gorgeous bathroom fixture truly makes a statement that is classic, sophisticated, and elegant.

Color Trends of 2017- What's Haute

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Vibrant blues and warm colors are what's trending in the design world, according to ELLE Decor and we can see why. The more saturated a paint color is with white trim or details, the more it seems to pop and the more intense of a focal point it creates.

As you can see in the above interior, a vibrant complementary color scheme really makes a statement that is both elegant, sophisticated and timeless.  We're seeing brass and gold as accessories make their return to the design front, and they pair beautifully with the color schemes that are trending.

Warmer color palettes consisting of reds, browns and oranges are making their comeback as well. While the common gray interior is still very popular, we are seeing the design world take a turn into warmer schematics and colors.

Vibrant blues and greens reminiscent of color palettes in the 1930s are debuting on the design front. Peacock color schemes are trending and make a gorgeous statement in all types of interiors. 

Peaceful Bedroom Retreat

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I recently had a client just outside of Seattle who was looking to brighten and refresh her bedroom space. It’s been said that when you wake up in a clutter free, fresh, calming space, it can set the tone for the rest of your day. It was with this project that I kept this in mind, wanting to create a tranquil, peaceful, and zen-like place for my client to retreat to whenever she deemed necessary.

The previous bedroom was simply decorated, with a neutral, yet cool color palette. While this bedroom had an overall calming feel to it, the space needed just a bit of TLC to really pull it together.  The beautiful roof line of this home adds visual interest to this bedroom, and the simple baseboards and paned window details provided the perfect clean palate to work with.

A fresh, bright and clean color palate is the perfect way in which you can create a calming, restful, and peaceful bedroom space. The beauty of using soft colors is that it is timeless, classic, and approachable while maintaining a richness that will carry over for years to come.

Serene Master Suite

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My clients had recently moved from California and desperately wanted to remodel their 1970’s master bathroom so to take advantage of the magnificent view of south Puget Sound. The large bathroom had a Jacuzzi tub, double sink vanity with small cabinet drawers, an enclosed shower and toilet and a walk-in closet that all simply needed to be updated and redesigned. My clients preferred a shower over a tub so we made the focal point of the room the view and designed a large shower adorned with three shower heads and stone pebbles on the shower floor in front of an 8’ x 8’ window. They also wanted to bring the natural colors of nature into the space so I created a color palette of warm green, tan and beige colors. A new linen cabinet was designed and the vanity countertop is a Seafoam green granite. Other design features include inset medicine cabinets with wall sconces on either side, a new half wall that provides privacy for the toilet area, a large walk in closet with new build in cabinets and the same tile as in the bath area, an exterior retractable window shade and double pocket doors to the master bedroom really make the space feel like a hotel en-suite bathroom.