Timeless Design | How to Achieve "that" Look

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

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

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

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.

Image Source: Kannalla Mongon, Online

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Blues without the Blues

Well, it’s that time of year already again! The sun is about to go into hibernation (at least in the Pacific Northwest, that is)! But, there are ways you can make your interior still feel luxurious even in the darker months with an unassuming color- blue. Here are ways in which you can implement blues into your interiors without feeling blue.

Interior designers love working with colors that are trendy in order to create unique and stylish spaces that are beautiful. One of the most popular colors that designers are using right now is blue, so incorporating various shades of this hue into your home will bring a current vibe into it and psychologically impact qualities that are associated with blue. If you want to create a soothing environment that will stimulate your mind and improve your ability to think clearly, blue has been scientifically proven to put your mind at ease.

Mix and Match Blue Hues

Blue can be wither an intense color, or somewhat neutral when used throughout various spaces, so it is important to consider the size of your space before choosing blue as the main color. Mixing varying shades of blue is a gorgeous way to not only break up the monotony of a using one hue of blue, but also creates a more calming space. You can also use several patterns in your blue furniture, accents, and wallpaper so that you can provide enough contrast within a room while still keeping the blue color the focal point.

Use Dark Blue with Caution

Darker shades of blue are certainly rich and sophisticated, but they need to be used correctly. Too much dark blue in a room can make it feel colder and smaller than it actually is. Gold, yellow, and other bright hues pair perfectly with darker blues, so add these too offset the cool tone with furniture, accessories, window treatments, lighting. This is how you can truly bring out a darker blue hue in a classic way.

Also, if you are going to have darker blue walls, you may want to contrast them with light furniture or accessories. In the same way, if you have a lot of blue furniture in a room, try to add accessories that are paler or cream colored to break the darkness up while still maintaining the calming vibe.

If you would like to go in a different direction, you can also use dark brown wood to ground blue colors throughout a space. Just think of the color wheel- the opposite of blue is orange (it’s complement).

Simple Ways to Update Your Curb Appeal

Whether you have a brand new home, or an old character one, there are always ways in which you can give your home's curb appeal that extra, well, "oomph." Here are some ideas in which you can truly up your home's exterior's A-Game. 

If your home's architecture speaks for itself, it's best to have an understated, clean landscaped look. You will really want to allow your home to stand out. Adding stone or several textures to your home's exterior truly give it a rich look. 

This beautiful Victorian home has curb appeal nailed down to a tee. Ornate ginger-breading details,  rich paint scheme, perfectly landscaped yard, and a welcoming facade- this home has it all. There has been no detail ignored!

There is nothing more lovely than a bright, bold color scheme on a home's exterior. If your home needs a little TLC in regards to its curb appeal, a fresh coat of paint can go a long way. It's always smart, however, to be mindful of your location's lighting, your neighbor's color palettes, and the style of your home before going too bold!

Lamps! How They Truly Make A Difference

One of my favorite accessories of all time is lighting. There is no better way to make a statement than with beautiful, understated, or even ornate lamps! Oftentimes if your space is feeling stark or like it "needs something," the simplest remedy is to add a table lamp or two. Turn off overhead lights, turn on your lamps, and viola- a completely different feel to your space!

You can make your bedroom space feel like its own little paradise at bedtime, simply by placing table lamps on the side tables next to your bed. Enjoy a relaxing cup of tea while reading your favorite novel in the pure coziness of dimmer lighting. Studies show that when you dim your lights an hour before bed, it releases Melatonin, a naturally occurring sleep endorphin, giving you a better night's sleep overall!

You can find some of the most elegant lighting in many places these days. This understated lamp in a rustic brass finish surely gives this unique space a clean, streamlined look, while providing warmth to the otherwise cool color palette.

The lighting in this contemporary space surely makes a statement. The tripod style drum floor lamp is a gorgeous accent piece that adds to 

The lighting in this contemporary space surely makes a statement. The tripod style drum floor lamp is a gorgeous accent piece that adds to the modern style of this living room area. The industrial style pendant lighting makes a beautiful accent, continuing the streamlined, simple look.

Have questions about lighting? I would love to assist you! Contact me today for a consultation!

Gorgeous Outdoor Oasises

We love this time of year, when the sun is shining and we are spending time on our balconies or in our yards, breathing in the fresh summer air! If you're seeking a little outdoor inspiration, we've picked out our favorite little outdoor Oasis's and we will tell you why. 

1. Indoor and Outdoor Perfection! This gorgeous little bungalow has both a sun room to relax in as well as beautiful little outdoor areas for pure bliss! The gorgeous landscaping creates the perfect backdrop for evenings barbecuing and mornings over coffee.

2.  There is nothing more luxurious than having an outdoor living room like set up. Imagine enjoying an iced tea or your favorite wine while gazing at the crackling fire in the comfort of your own outdoor space!

3. We absolutely love the classic style of this beautiful Southern porch. When it comes to decor, it's all about simplicity, allowing for the gorgeous architecture to stand out on this colonial home. Imagine evenings of crickets and fresh dewy breeze.

4. The ultimate set up! Talk about entertaining company! This is an industrial outdoor kitchen, worthy of celebrity guests! As people love to gather in the kitchen, they now can in fresh air and breeze. Complete with beer on draft, this outdoor oasis is at the top of our list!

5. As scenic as it gets. Imagine evenings of fresh breeze coming off of the water while reading a favorite book. The beautiful Doric columns adorning the ornamental railings give this beautiful porch the most classic, traditional feel. 

Which is your favorite outdoor oasis? Comment below!

The Best Interior Design Trends for Spring & Summer 2018

We are always seeing the trends change in the design world, but for this season, we are definitely seeing some timeless, fun, elegant designs worth considering:

Pastels! It seems ironic, but we are seeing bold, saturated pastels make their debut all over the map in both the design and fashion worlds. Bright pops of pastel pinks and blues truly make a statement in your interior- bringing fun and lightness to the space.

Foliage! At one point, houseplants were seen as a dated way to decorate. But they're back! Different from your typical spider plant, you are seeing unique and distinct uses of foliage in interiors that surely make a room pop.

Turquoise! Turquoise is one of those colors that ebbs and flows- one day it's all the rage; the next, it's seen as antiquated. But, there are ways in which you can implement this beautiful hue into your space that are both timeless and classic.

Gold! Remember in the early 2000's when we were all trying to replace our brass knobs and hardware with brushed nickel? Well, gold is back in at full speed. But not the shiny brass we saw everywhere in the 90s- a more rustic look is what is trending. 

Metallic Floors! Such a statement! We are seeing designers all over the world painting concrete floors with metallic paints. We are seeing small flecks of silver and gold in carpet patterns. We are seeing metallics all over the flooring industry and they surely make a statement!

Ultra Violet: 2018 Pantone Color of the Year

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.

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

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. 

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!

Ultra Violet in Fashion

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!

We're Blushing! The Color that's Coming Back...

Pale pinks were very popular in the past and tapered off up until recently. We are seeing beautiful rose colors, blushes and other feminine pink hues throughout the Interior Design world. Here are some of our favorite uses for blush tones.

1. Fabrics. Pale pink fabrics can truly bring elegance into a space. This beautiful blush Chesterfield sofa gives this room a sophisticated, classic look.

2. Decor. There are many ways in which you can incorporate this feminine hue into your décor. Through the use of fabrics or throw pillows, you can give your space an extra pop. Fresh flowers are always a beautiful touch too!

3. Paint. Beautiful pink hued walls bring a sense of warmth and classic feel to any space. This especially pink color creates a soft, welcoming, and elegant look.

4. Window Treatments. Pale pink window treatments can really complete a space. Incorporating beautiful florals and other patterns will give an otherwise basic room an extra focal point. 

Fall Decor Trends 2017

Well, it's officially Fall! We are seeing that some trends that were making their debut last year are now going out of style, and new ones coming in. There are many design trends that we will see this year, starting in the fall and here they are.

1. Dark Paint.  There is nothing richer or more classic than a saturated, darker color palette, specifically when applied to a wall color or furnishings. We are also seeing beautiful dark cabinetry, window treatments and decor that really make a statement!

2. Woven Textures. Wicker, wool, and other woven textures will give your space a warm, welcoming and organic appeal. Baskets and woven decor bring the outdoors in and create a rustic, traditional look.

3. Velvet. Velvet is a classic as it gets. The easiest way to incorporate this plush upholstery into your interior is through furnishings and window treatments. Velvet has been around for centuries and creates a timeless, sophisticated look.

4. Blush Color.  Soft blush colors are being seen all over the design community and there's a reason why. Soft pinks have a calming effect and create a both feminine and elegant look for an interior space.

5. Brass. Brass is back! We are seeing it presented in more of a bronzed, brushed style as opposed to the shiny golden that was so popular in the 80's and 90's. It seems that this time around, designers have mastered how to incorporate this beautiful finish into their themes.

ELLE Decor: What's Trending for Fall 2017

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

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

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

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. 

It's in the Little Things: Tiny Houses!

The tiny house movement has taken the world by storm in the past couple of years, and there’s a reason for it. The architects and builders of the modern day tiny house have figured out ways in which to implement all of the bells and whistles of today’s designs while maintaining the charm and efficiency of living small. We have done our research, and here are our favorite tiny houses– both old and new.

It’s in the Little Things: Our Favorite Tiny Houses

1. This gorgeous Southern style tiny house was designed and built by Palm Harbor Homes. Since the beginning of the recent tiny house movement, builders have taken the simple streamlined “boxes,” and turned them into elegant, charming floor plans with upscale and quality features.

2. Who says you can’t have a gorgeous tudor home in a beautiful garden setting? This home has all of the bells and whistles, while maintaining the classic look and feel of a tudor style home. This would make the perfect back yard stay-cation or mother-in-law casita.

3. You are never too old to have a tree house. This beautiful home features an open floor plan, bright and airy color scheme and a beautiful park like setting. The lower patio area is perfect for barbecues, reading a book, and enjoying the fresh air of the outdoors. The interior features a small kitchenette, a living room and a lofted bedroom.

4. Contemporary chic describes this one. This house has the perfect combination of functionality and fun. The main living areas and master bedroom breath in plenty of light with this open space concept. Each and every room and closet is efficient enough to allow for an open, airy, spacious feel.

Trend: Open Glass Shower

 

Showers in the past used to be comprised of just a shower head inside of an existing bath tub enclosure and that was it. Today, showers have come a long way, and they are separated from the bathtub to give more space, versatility and visual aesthetics for your bathroom.

Open showers are becoming more popular in bathrooms that need to be accessible for all and they open up a small space to appear larger.
The no barrier appeal of open showers opens up your bathroom and can give visual views of expansive vistas and views outside of a window beyond. This modern touch gives the feel of a luxury spa or high end hotel that home owners enjoy.

Are you ready for a an updated bathroom? Call Kathy at Authentic Home to set up  your appointment today!

2016 Design Trends!

 Images Source: Pexels

As our lives become fast paced with hectic schedules, at the end of the day, we would like to relax at home in a serene and calming atmosphere akin to a sanctuary. In the year 2016, interior design experts have concluded that interior design trends are likely to be characterized by warm room colors, stylish house fixtures and furniture and use of texture here and there.

Some of the 2016 current trends in Interior Design include the following:

 Heated house entry floors
Bathrooms are the first thing that comes to mind when heated floors is the subject. By applying this technology onto the floor of entryways, it becomes even more suitable especially during the winter where an inviting warm indoors will provide a solace away from the freezing outdoors.

Marble touches
Marble has become one of the most popular materials that are used in interior design. Marble is increasingly being used to add some luxurious feel on household’s objects like candleholders, planters, coasters and clocks.

Stylish bathroom mirrors
Bathroom mirrors need not to be in that traditional and ever boring rectangular shape. Different shapes and styles have been adopted to transform these pieces into design statements that can add some oomph to an often overlooked space like the bathroom.

 Kitchens mixed materials
Our beloved kitchens are also moving away from the often traditional polished look to a more eclectic vibe. Instead of using one or two materials, homeowners are incorporating different design styles to create more personalized spaces in the kitchen.

Warm metals
Brass, copper and gold have continued to dominate inside kitchens and bathrooms. Such metals when paired with natural and raw materials like wood and marble create a good combination when they are used in interior spaces.

Black stainless steel
Instead of the commonplace shiny silver electrical house appliances, the trend of the moment is the use of black stainless steel to make these gadgets.

Rough touches
The adding of some rough texture on an otherwise conservative object has the potential to bring out an unexpected intrigue and touch to the senses. The use of wallpapers that bring out a rustic and aging look has also been popular this year.

Floral prints
Interior designers have predicted an even growing popularity with floral fabrics used on furniture like sofas and on curtains.
With the aforementioned designing styles and many others that have been used with a lot of great results, it remains to be seen what more will be in the offing as far as interior designing is concerned.

Eclectic Decor- Get the Look!

 Images Source: Pexels

We’re seeing it everywhere- eclectic design is the bee’s knees in 2016! A mix-match of randomness that somehow seems to all pull together. Ever wondered how designers can take a variety of seemingly unrelated items and make them work together in a beautiful yet cohesive way? Well, here’s how!

Eclectic Decor- Get the Look!

1. Stick with a color palette. It’s true! If you have a variety of decor that is completely unrelated, you can get a designer look by keeping them within the same general color palette. Color is one of the easiest ways to pull an otherwise mismatched space together.

2. Group like items together.  It’s a “psychological thing.” Our minds desire to see like things placed together. When several similar items are placed in a grouping like the sconces, books and pillows in this room, our minds categorize them, making it appear less busy. If you have a lot of something, display it together! This will surprisingly make your space feel less cluttered, and well, eclectic.

3. Be Selective. When purchasing decor for your space, choose items that are unique- this will truly give you that eclectic look.

4. Let the architecture do the work. Whether you live in a rustic old or streamlined modern building, the key is to let the beauty of the architecture stand out. Bring in key pieces that mean something to you. Keep a neutral palette. Mix old and new, and let the sunlight in! This will naturally highlight the beauty of your space.

Looking for a design consultation? Contact Kathy Banak today!

Bringing the Outdoors In: Organic Touches

 

I am sure you have experienced a time when you walked into a space and thought to yourself, “I am not sure what it is, but this space just feels fresh and organic.” Well, maybe not in those words, but you get my drift. Sometimes it is just the little things that make a world of difference in a space; the small touches that pull it all together. Many times, these details can be found on your evening walk, or better yet, visit to a local beach or park.

Bringing the Outdoors In: 6 Small Organic Touches that Make a Difference

1.Eucalyptus. This beautifully scented plant grows naturally in most regions. Many people use it for its aromatherapy healing properties, but it also is a beautiful soft green color that doesn’t fade as it dries. The beauty of this plant is that its versatility. Because it grows in long, bendable stalks, you can make wreaths, table runners, and candle holders (pictured below) easily for an elegant touch.

2. Branches. You see branches used in designer showrooms all the time. Reminiscent of a simpler time, branches can really bring a touch of sophistication to any space. I often find myself walking through my neighborhood, thinking, “wow, those branches would make the perfect accent piece!”

3.Wheat. Neutral in color, wheat adds a bit of texture and country to an interior space. It is plentiful- you can find it on a farm road growing abundantly. Perfectly groomed wheat arrangements are all the rage in the design world. Simply bunch together the perfect wheat stalks, tie with twine, and cut the bottom off in one clean swipe. The arrangement should be able to stand on its own.

4. Rocks & Stones. We all enjoy a day at the beach or the mountains. We tend to collect shells, or stones only to find ourselves with a pocket full of them when we get home, and no where to put them. Next time you’re out in the sunshine, seek out treasures that you can use in your decor. Large white stones work beautifully as bookends as pictured here.

5.Rustic Pieces of Wood. Oftentimes you will come across old, worn out pieces of painted or not painted wood. You may think nothing of it, but these finds are so unique, they are sure to make a stunning conversation piece within your home.  Pictured here, simple hooks and mason jars complete the look for beautiful candle wall sconces.

6.Hydrangeas. These beautiful flowers have been popular since the beginning of time. The pale pastel colors they take on as they dry out add a softness and femininity to a space like no other flower. Hydrangeas grow abundantly in the Pacific Northwest. You can enjoy them while they’re fresh and vibrant in color, then hang them up to dry and enjoy them for years to come..

April Color of the Month – Light Green

The weather is definitely starting to feel like Spring! The rains having been bringing in new fresh grass and flowers. That is why we think this Light Green is the perfect color for April. Bring the beauty of the outdoor inside as we prepare for the wonderful nature Spring will bring to us!

In the bedroom or in the living room, Light Green looks beautiful wherever you want to paint or accessorize!

Image Source: Pexels

Choose one of Authentic Home COLOR Paint for your next project. Contact Kathy for help to choose your perfect color or to order Authentic Home COLOR Paint today!