why not white after labor day?

We all know that you're not "suppose" to wear white after Labor Day, but if you love those white pants, you probably wear them anyway.  Also, I'm sure you've been told that white is boring or plain when it comes to your home.  

White done right, a latest trend in modern design is to leave rooms white instead of painting them.  And using color sparingly as accents, rather than as the basis for design.  Instead, texture and lines shape rooms and spaces flow together as a cohesive design.  Use black and grey to add contract and color sparingly as accents, or not at all.

Black and white are especially popular to bring a modernize a more traditional design pattern.  Schumacher Wallpapers and Fabrics introduced a collection of wallpapers that feature modern black and white color schemes in traditional and modern patterns. See the full post here. We use Schumacher wall coverings within a lot of our interior designs in Austin! As you can view see here, our interior design services for the Westlake residence. (Image 10 reflects a graphic Schumacher wall covering). 

All this month we will be breaking the "rules" of design.  After all, rules were meant to be broken.  

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a big thank you

I would like to extend a big thank you to Ole Decor, who published one of our newly completed remodel in their Summer 2013 issue.  It was truly an honor for our project to be featured.  

The extensive condo renovation in South Padre, Texas was inspired by the clients' avid interest of fishing and hunting.  This retreat reflects coastal influences throughout the interior design, while bringing in a balance of classic furnishings and modernized material finishes.  We started by taking the condo down to the studs, replace all finishes with intricate design details with cool tones, translating to a light airy feeling.  The furnishings and interior decor are a blend of traditional elegance and fresh coastal accents. The clients interests were highlighted though his collection of elk mounts, bronze hunting statues and redfish displays.  We succesfully created a fine blend of the clients interest, style, and island vibe.  

To read the full article, click HERE.

For more pictures, click HERE.

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not your grandmother's wallpaper

There are so many wallpaper choices out there that the excuse “I don’t want my home to look like a grandmothers” is no longer valid when choosing not to explore wallpaper.  Design Studio 2010 has thrown together a little cheat sheet for anyone looking to venture into the world of wallpaper.

Non-traditional floral:  I love floral wallpaper, but the not type you’re probably thinking of.  While traditional wallpaper is often floral with an abundance of color, I prefer a more modern take on it.  Look for abstracted patterns with 3-5 main colors, preferably all similar color tones (black and white do not apply) to keep a clean and modern look.  This master bedroom has an abstracted carnation in gold over an orange background, keeping the bedroom updated and modern with a nod to traditional patterns.  

Geometric:  These are always a great choice, but keep a few simple rules in mind.  If the pattern is more angular then it can be larger, busier, and more complex, because the hard edges inherently make the pattern more modern.  But if softer scrolls and sweeps are more your style, stick to simpler pattern to keep the wallpaper it modern.

Stripes:  Always a timeless classic, though I suggest not papering the entire room in stripes.  Do an accent wall or add a wainscot at the bottom to break it up!  We love all stripes, tone on tone, single color on white, or multicolor. 

Grass cloths:   Definitely the new hit wallpaper, a few gentle reminders.  Grass cloths can get really expensive really quickly, but a lot of the time, there is a more economical option.  Grass cloths may need to be shopped a bit more than other wallpaper to meet your price point.  Also no matter how expensive your grass cloth is, you will be able to see the seams; it’s just the nature of the product.  However, if you choose a grass cloth with a tighter weave, it will be less prominent but still noticeable.   Finally, because grass cloths are comprised of natural materials, they will fade faster than other wallpapers with sun exposure; consider putting them in an interior bathroom, or a north facing room if this is a major concern. 

Scenes:  We have all seen twall wallpapers and you either love them or hate them.  If you are someone who loves them, go for it.  We suggest using a single color twall to keep the design fresh and timeless.  Try using a bright fun color; with a more traditional design the color can be more daring. 

Tiles:  Another new hot trend in wallpaper.  Often tiles are out of capiz shell or wood veneers adhered to thin foam padding and have about a sixteenth of an inch in depth.  These are a great alternative to a faux finish and help give warmth and texture to a space.  Don’t necessarily shy away from tiles because of budget restrictions, a single accent wall (like a vanity wall) makes a huge impact on the space. 

Beaded and Velvet:  These have been out for a few years, but are still relatively new.  Beaded and velvet papers give richness to the space by added additional layer of depth and texture to walls.  We love textured papers for dining rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, and even nurseries! 

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many thanks

A month ago, The Austin American Statesman wrote an insightful article about incorporating pet areas into areas of your home, featuring one of Design Studio 2010's laundry rooms!  We incorporated a cat's litter box and a dog's kennel into the design so these, often unsightly items,  would not be eye sores.  

At DS2010, we feel that pets are like family, and welcome challenges that come with having pet-owner clients.  The most important things are to make sure that also meet your needs as well and to have a back-up plan should your pet have other ideas.  This homeowner planed to convert her dog's nook into more cabinet space if Jazzy had hated it.  

For more from this beautiful home, please click here!

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Buying Your Bedding

Everyone wants to be comfortable when they sleep, but comfort and fashion are not mutually exclusive and your bedding should also look good. Here's some helpful tips to keep in mind with starting your search!

Comfort First

When starting to look at bedding, it can be overwhelming.  Take a breath and figure out what you’re looking for and don’t let your opinion be swayed by a pretty picture.  If you sleep hot and live in a warm climate, that velvet duvet cover probably isn’t for you.  Consider the weight, as well as feel, of the bedding.  When shopping online, see if the company has a local store or showroom that has samples.  Local showrooms are knowledgeable about the lines they carry and can typically answer any questions that may arise.  Also, stay in your financial comfort zone.  Don’t spend a fortune on a silk coverlet, when you can get a cotton blend coverlet or quilt that will complete your look.  Shop sales and discount stores, often times last season’s bedding is reduced to almost 50% of the original retail costs, and bedding and home goods do not go in and out of style with the change in seasons. 

*Helpful hint–check the return policy of locally owned businesses, because bedding may not be returnable.  Instead ask if they will let you take the bedding out on approval for a limited time. 

Pile on the layers

The easiest way to make your bed look fabulous is to layer your bedding.  Use different size decorative pillows.  For a king, we recommend 3 euro pillows (26” x 26”) or “super euro” pillows (30” x 30”), 2 king sized pillows, and a decorative accent in front.  For queen and full beds, we recommend 2 euro pillows, 2 standard pillows, along with smaller throw pillows.  Even twin beds should have multiple pillows; add a euro pillow behind a standard pillow to dress up kids’ beds.    There is also an added benefit to layering, it gives you the added advantage of being about to change your bedding with the seasons.  Folding a duvet on top of a coverlet or blanket doubles as a functional and pretty addition – use it instead of an extra blanket during the winter, and it provides richness and fullness to the base of your bed. 

Consider your lifestyle

Think about your habits.  Love making your bed?  Go ahead and get those 5 extra throw pillows.  Only make it when company comes?  Add a larger accent pillow instead; select a showier pillow with a fun color or pattern to complete the look of your bed.  Also consider where you’ll place these pillows every night.  Will they go in a chair, on the floor, or on a bench?  Make sure that these pillows won’t be in your way when not on your bed.  

Use Texture & Pattern

To create a sophisticated look, use varying texture and pattern.  There is no rule to how elaborate or simple your bedding has to be.  At Design Studio 2010, I look to the client’s personal style when selecting bedding.  Love the look of an all white bed?  Use varying textures to achieve the look without it being boring.  When use a bold pattern and pull accent pillows from the individual colors within the pattern.  There is also no rule of using too much pattern, just make sure that all of the patterns work together and complement each other, rather than compete and fight for attention. 

*Helping hint:  Love that duvet cover but don’t want a coverlet instead?  Lay it on your bed unfilled.  This tip works best with duvet covers that are thicker and heavier. 

Between the Sheets

There are all sorts of information with sheets out there.  There are a few things to keep in mind.  The higher the thread count, the softer the sheets, but also the faster they will wear out.  You don’t have to get sheets made of Egyptian cotton to have soft sheets, news flash – there is nothing different about cotton woven in Egypt than anywhere else, they have just been doing it longer so it is seen as more luxurious.  There are other content options besides cotton:  bamboo sheets are extremely popular right now because they are durable and soft; however that they are generally more expensive than cotton sheets but they generally last longer.  Lastly, don’t limit yourself to white sheets – don’t be afraid of colored sheets or even a patterned sheet if it will complete your look. 

So go ahead, love your bedding and leave your bedroom door open!

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Accessorize Your Home

It's the little things throughout a house that makes it feel like home. 

Decorating your home involves understanding the style and overall aesthetic you are striving for. Typically, we all have a list (or two) of "WANTS" in reference to our homes decor. This list includes Furniture and other household accessories that gives your home a sense of unique identity. 

Here's a quick reference guide or your personal check list of both decor & accessories that every home should have. 

Old & New.

We've all heard the phrase, 'something new, something old....' but this phrase is perfect when accessorizing your home. Budgets come in to mind and a lot of us can't afford to redecorate or remodel so gravitating towards vintage pieces tends to allow for more money in your pocket, not to mention a groovy look. Whether you are looking to reuse a piece of furniture or investing in an antique, it's pretty common to see in most households a mixture of both new & old home accessories. There is also the incentive of going green and re-using furniture is an eco-friendly option that is one of the hottest on the market right now. Using the old & new philosophy will allow you to hit a few birds with one stone. 

Patterns.

Patterns and prints add a lot of interest as well as depth to your space. Patterns can also distract the eye from noticing unsightly stains and or markings by drawing your attention elsewhere. They demand your attention and give a distinct flair to your style. Think about adding rugs, throw pillows and even wall art (ie: wallpaper) with texture to your home. Incorporating patterns and prints are a great way to change a focal point in the room or add depth to an existing space. Whether your patterns lean to simple or ornate, every home should have patterns in it.

Wall Art.

Art is a tricky subject. There are so many styles, eras and artists out there. Finding a piece within your budget and home aesthetic can seem like a challenge all in itself. No matter your style, minimalists to shabby chic-ers, having art on your walls is a must. Over-sized print or a painting add a sense of excitement to the space while a wall of frames keeps the eyes moving and is a wonderful way to personalize the home. 

All of our "WANTS" lists can refer to a wide variety of products from table decor, furniture and much much more. Do not fear the investment in antiques. They are typically a better quality product than what we have today and have already lasted the test of time thus far. Patterns and prints give depth to a space and can distract the eye. Patterns and prints will give comfort to a space and invite you in as well. Wall art can add a personal touch or an unexpected surprise. Don't be afraid to think outside the box when finding accessories for your home. 

When shopping for home decor and accessories, I like to check out Casa Cole for all my decorating needs! Happy Shopping!

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Pick the Right Table Lamp

         Lighting has a large impact on your home and can change a room dramatically. When purchasing a table lamp for a space in your home, you have probably wondered if you were making the right decision. From table lamps to chandeliers, all lighting has tendency to make a large impact in your home so it's important to choose a fixture that you can enjoy for many years.  

Here are a few tips & tricks to help you choose the right fixture for your space. 

Budget

• Table lamps range in price so the best place to start is considering your budget and what you are willing to spend. Are your table lamps going to be an investment or a simple fixture that will be replaced from season to season or trend to trend. 

Style

• The overall aesthetic of your home should coincide with your light fixture unless you are undergoing a complete overhaul on your style. Either way, a lamps style can be a bold statement  or blend in with the rest of the space. Light fixtures and table lamps, in general, are one of the most important aspects of creating a space; i.e.: ambience & function. Proper lighting is key to keeping even the best interior spaces from looking drab, dirty and even dated. Keep your overall look in mind when choosing the right table lamp. 

Function

• In most spaces there is a designed task and lighting is a key part in making sure that that happens in a productive manner. While shopping for table lamps, one must keep this in mind: 

1. What is the space mainly being used for? 

2. Does the lamp produce enough light to complete that task? 

          For example, when you are reading a book in an armchair or next to your bed will you be using the same light? If so, this light must be large enough, versatile and or able to be moved to complete all the tasks needed in this space. Potentially consider a swivel arm table lamp in this case, especially, if both task spaces are in close adjacency to one another. 

Quantity

• Lastly, it's important to determine the amount of table lamps needed to complete the tasks & ambience (mood lighting) in your home. If you are considering flanking your lamps to a furniture piece like a bed or sofa, symmetry is very inviting and is the standard in home design. One table lamp on each side will definitely do the trick. However, If you are looking for desk lighting as well as a lamp next to your favorite arm chair, the design team at Design Studio 2010 recommends only utilizing one lamp. Whereas on a console table and or banquet there's no wrong or right answer; Simply decide whether you want one or two. Knowing the quantity of table lamps needed for a space will narrow the selection while making style & function an easy deciphering tool. 

Lighting a space is a crucial element to creating the overall mood and style of your home. Lamps in either a bedroom, living room or any space do serve as a form of task lighting so keeping their function in mind when making your selection. To make an inviting space considered symmetry when using table lamps around a living room sofa or a bedroom. All these elements will help ensure a seamless flow throughout your home. 

Today, we are featuring Casa Cole's Java Table Lamp. This table lamp has a sleek and yet bold look. The texture created through its decorative base allows for subtle reflection of light and adds sparkle to any room. 

For more great table lamps, check out Casa Cole, here.

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