10 Questions to Ask Your Interior Designer

Hello design enthusiast! Ready to embark on a journey to elevate your space? Here are the 10 interior design questions that will guide you towards creating a truly captivating home:

1.What should I look for when searching for my ideal interior designer?

Delve into visuals! Take a stroll through a designer's portfolio as if you're exploring an art gallery. No stunning transformations to be found? It might be time to seek out someone with both experience and a portfolio that speaks to your design dreams.

2. Can I afford a professional's touch in my space?

Absolutely! Hiring a designer is like investing in a vital asset for your space. They have the connections to bring you the best, and they can guide you away from design pitfalls. Consider it as having a companion on the journey, ensuring every step is a purposeful and delightful one.

3. How do I choose between all these interior design styles?

Picture this as a conversation, a delightful dialogue with your designer. Share your preferences, the things that make you smile, and the vibes you resonate with. Your lifestyle and how you envision using the space? That's the key to unlocking your unique style.

4. What's the crucial factor in designing a room?

Vision is the spotlight! If you're feeling unsure, your designer is here as your creative companion. Before you dive into purchases, let's refine your theme. Colors, styles, and vibes should harmonize, creating a space that feels uniquely you.

5. What's on the menu for interior design services from my designer?

Your ideal designer has a menu ready for you – from aesthetic boards to color palettes, and detailed E-designs. It's a curated experience, blending inspiration, gorgeous furniture, and transforming spaces into personalized works of art.

6. When curating a room, what's something that I should absolutely know?

Imagine crafting a room as choreographing a dance – each element should seamlessly flow. Consider the audience: your bedroom is a serene solo, while a shared space is a grand ensemble. It's all about functionality with finesse.

7. Is it worth it to get interior design advice for my small living space?

Without a doubt! Small space, big impact. Design wizards understand the magic of mirrors, light hues, and strategic design to turn your cozy corner into a charming haven.

8. How do you handle design challenges or unexpected hiccups during a project?

Every dance has its dips and twirls. It's crucial to know how your designer navigates through unexpected design challenges. Whether it's a flooring fiasco or a paint predicament, understanding their problem-solving moves ensures a smooth design performance.

9. What questions should I expect my designer to ask?

Think of it as a delightful conversation! Budgets, design styles, past design experiences – it's all part of getting to know you. Your designer wants to understand you thoroughly, ensuring the final design reflects your personality and preferences.

10. How do I decide between wood, tile, carpet, and other flooring options?

Let's take a deep dive into your preferences, dreams, and lifestyle. Together, we'll uncover the perfect flooring, wallcoverings, and furnishings to create a harmonious and charming atmosphere.

These are just a few steps in the process of redesigning your space. If you seek further guidance, don't hesitate to reach out to Abode Above Interiors. We're here to make your design journey a simple and delightful experience. Call today, and let's start crafting your dream home together! ✨

Wow with Wallpaper: How to Do It Yourself

As an interior designer, I'm always on the lookout for creative ways to transform spaces without blowing the budget. Recently, I decided to dive into the world of DIY home decor with a project that was both exciting and budget-friendly – applying luxurious peel-and-stick wallpaper to give a room a fresh, stylish look.

Picking the Perfect Wallpaper

The first step in this adventure was to pick the perfect peel-and-stick wallpaper. With so many gorgeous designs to choose from, I was like a kid in a candy store. After some contemplation, I settled on a stunning and luxurious black and gold geometric pattern by Nikki Chu that perfectly matched the room's vibe. Remember, the key to any successful DIY project is selecting a design that resonates with you and complements your existing decor.

Gathering What You Need

Before starting, I gathered all the necessary tools:

1. Peel-and-stick wallpaper rolls

2. Tape measure

3. Level

4. Box cutter

5. Pencil

6. Smoothing tool or even an old credit card

7. Loads of patience and a dash of positivity

Setting Up Your Workspace

Preparation is key, so I cleared the area around the wall I was working on, removed any obstacles, and gave the wall a thorough clean. A clean canvas makes for a smoother application.

Measuring and Cutting

With my wallpaper in hand, it was time to get to work. Using a tape measure and a level, I carefully measured the wall and marked the dimensions on the back of the wallpaper. Precision is essential for a good fit. However, don't stress about perfection; a minor misalignment won't be noticeable once everything's in place.

Peeling and Sticking

I started at the top, ensuring the wallpaper lined up with my level guide. Slowly, I peeled off the backing while gently smoothing the wallpaper onto the wall with my smoothing tool. This part is strangely satisfying; it's all about enjoying the process and watching your vision come together.

Trimming the Edges

As I worked my way down, I encountered obstacles like outlets and corners. To tackle these, I used a box cutter to make precise cuts, leaving a slight overlap to ensure a seamless finish. Again, don't sweat the small stuff; minor imperfections can be hidden in the seams or worked into your design.

Embrace the Character

Remember, a DIY project isn't about chasing perfection but about adding your personal touch. A tiny air bubble or a small wrinkle can give your project character and tell the story of your DIY journey. So, relax, take your time, and savor the quirks that make your project uniquely yours.

Step Back and Admire

After all the peeling, sticking, smoothing, and trimming, I finally stepped back to admire my handiwork. The transformation was incredible. The room had gone from plain to posh, all thanks to a bit of peel-and-stick wallpaper and my DIY spirit.

In a nutshell, applying luxurious peel-and-stick wallpaper was a rewarding adventure that allowed me to infuse my design sensibilities into a space. Armed with a level, tape measure, and box cutter, I took on this project with enthusiasm, knowing that perfection was not the goal. Instead, I embraced the journey, celebrated the quirks, and had a blast creating something stunning in my own style. If you're looking for a wallet-friendly way to spruce up your space, consider embarking on your own peel-and-stick wallpaper journey—you'll be thrilled with the results!

Art Deco Reborn: How to Adopt a Classic Style

Stepping back into the opulent era of the 1920s and '30s, Art Deco remains an iconic style renowned for its luxurious and glamorous aesthetic. With bold geometric patterns, sumptuous materials, and elegant lines, Art Deco is reclaiming its throne as a timeless trend in interior design. Today, let's unravel the secrets of infusing your space with the irresistible allure of Art Deco while giving it a contemporary spin.

• Embrace Opulence with Luxe Materials: Dive headfirst into the world of opulence. Art Deco design is synonymous with luxurious materials. Marble, polished metals, exotic woods, and rich velvet are your key players. Whether it's a marble coffee table or a brass chandelier, let these materials add a touch of decadence, elevating the entire ambiance of your space.

• Geometric Patterns: Art Deco's heartbeat is the rhythmic dance of geometric patterns. Introduce them through wallpaper, tiles, or rugs. Think bold, symmetrical designs like chevrons, sunbursts, or stepped motifs. Let these patterns weave through various elements, from wall coverings to furniture upholstery, creating a cohesive and visually striking masterpiece.

• Curves and Streamlined Forms: Let your furniture echo elegance with curvaceous, streamlined silhouettes. Art Deco furniture is all about those elegant lines. Invest in pieces like a curved sofa or a streamlined armchair adorned with geometric detailing. To modernize the look, opt for contemporary upholstery fabrics, infusing a fresh twist into the classic design.

• Statement Lighting: Lighting takes center stage in Art Deco interiors. Opt for fixtures that emanate glamour and sophistication. Picture chandeliers with cascading crystals, sleek wall sconces, or table lamps flaunting geometric shades. These lighting elements not only illuminate the space but also become captivating decorative pieces, creating a focal point in your design.

• Bold Color Palette: Art Deco revels in bold and rich color schemes. Dive into deep jewel tones—emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red. Let these vibrant hues breathe life into your space through accent walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories. Balance the intensity with neutral tones like cream, beige, or black, ensuring a visually harmonious atmosphere.

• Luxurious Art and Accessories: The finishing touch lies in the art and accessories. Choose pieces that boast stylized representations of nature, geometric shapes, or glamorous figures. Mirrors with intricate frames, sleek sculptures, and vintage-inspired clocks are your companions. Pay attention to the details, whether it's embellished hardware on cabinets or geometric patterns on throw pillows.

With its timeless allure, Art Deco is reclaiming the spotlight in 2023. By weaving opulent materials, bold geometric patterns, curvaceous furniture, statement lighting, a vibrant color palette, and luxurious accessories into your design, you effortlessly introduce Art Deco into your space with a contemporary twist. So, immerse yourself in the glamorous world of Art Deco and let your space become a haven of elegance and sophistication. ✨🎨

Color Happy: Your Guide to a Saturated Home Design

Now, here’s a trend this colorful designer can get behind!

Crafting the perfect color scheme is like holding a paintbrush to your emotions—it can make your home feel warm, bright, moody, dramatic, peaceful, and the list goes on. In the vibrant landscape of 2023, get ready to witness a surge in highly saturated spaces that embrace the beauty of bold hues.

Wondering how to dive into this color extravaganza without feeling like you're stepping out of your comfort zone? Well, here are some savvy tips!

• Choose a Captivating Focal Point: Pinpoint one area or element in the room that deserves the spotlight with a splash of saturated color. Whether it's a feature wall, a piece of furniture, or an artwork, make it the star. Aim for the wall directly opposite the entry point for that wow factor.

• Balance with Neutrals: Keep the equilibrium by teaming your saturated color with neutral tones like white, beige, or gray. This harmonious pairing prevents the space from feeling like a color explosion, ensuring a balanced and cohesive vibe.

• Embrace Complementary Colors: Play with the color wheel's magic! Opt for complementary colors to create a dynamic and harmonious scheme. For instance, pair a saturated red wall with green or blue accessories to infuse contrast and maintain equilibrium.

• Layer Textures for Depth: Elevate your space with depth and dimension by introducing various textures—wood, metal, textiles. This infusion of textures not only adds visual interest but prevents the space from appearing flat. And here's a bonus tip: sprinkle vibrant or unique wall art to further amplify your style.

• Master the Art of Lighting: The mood of highly saturated colors can dance with the light in the room. Test your color scheme in both natural and artificial light to ensure it sparkles in all conditions. Utilize directional lighting or pockets of color created by sconces or gallery lights for an elevated design result.

• Start Small for Big Impact: If the thought of diving headfirst into highly saturated colors feels a tad daunting, start with small accents. Think pillows, rugs, or artwork. It's like dipping your toes into the pool before taking the plunge, allowing you to experiment and discover the hues that resonate before committing to a larger project.

Going bold with your interior color scheme might seem like a leap, but trust me, it's a thrilling and creative adventure! Let your personality take center stage in your space—it's the secret sauce for a home that's truly loved. Plus, who has time for a boring color scheme? Life's too short for that! 😉✨

Sustainable Home Decor: Brands You Need To Know!

The U.S. produces 268 million tons of waste — 140 million going into landfills — each year, with the average American tossing 4.5 pounds of trash per day.

Image sourced from Obakki

I can't help but acknowledge that a good chunk of that waste is tied to materials that aren't exactly singing eco-friendly tunes. Enter sustainable interior design—a game-changer in crafting spaces that not only look fabulous but also champion the cause of our planet. It's about prioritizing materials, products, and practices that dance to an environmentally friendly beat, creating homes that are not just stylish but also breathe healthiness into our living spaces.

“By considering the use of sustainable materials and products in the design process, people can create a home that is both beautiful and promotes a healthier and earth-friendly lifestyle.”

Many of home brands partner with master artisans to genuinely support traditional crafts, and a few have ‘Fair Trade’ certifications, by using materials and products that are made from sustainable or renewable resources, such as bamboo or cork, and by choosing products that are free from harmful chemicals and toxins.

Check out some of the stars of sustainable home decor below:

Tiziri Pillow from Folks & Tales

1) Shades of Green

Shades of Green is committed to creating healthier living spaces by sourcing and selling only non-toxic, environmentally-friendly products, offering green design consultation, and providing the latest information on green building products and practices.

A vital part of our mission is to offer customers smart choices and real value through honest and transparent details about the toxic chemicals we are exposed to in many widely-used, conventionally-made products.

2) Folks &Tales

We create home goods that will infuse your interior with the authentic and diverse beauty of ancestral craftsmanship. Each product tells a specific story through its unique design and the hands of the artisan who patiently crafted it. By blending traditional shapes, patterns and materials with modern aesthetics and colors, we create authentic yet trendy pieces that will bring that coveted twist to your space.

3) Obakki

Obakki is a purpose-led lifestyle brand that connects people through modern design. Everything we curate is handcrafted and produced in partnership with our network of world-class artisans—real people making products that bring meaning and connection to your home.

At Obakki, our artisan partners are part of our extensive global family. We’re in touch on a regular basis and their quality of life—and ability to sustain themselves and their communities—will always be our top priority as a company. Their happiness, health, and financial independence all matter to us. By respecting the creativity and technique of every artisan, Obakki helps to give communities a stronger sense of cultural independence and pride

4) Made Trade

We believe we can make the world a more beautiful place by holding ourselves to a higher ethical standard. We call it being “ethically elevated.” It means we put artistry above efficiency. Fair wages above profits. Sustainability above mass production. Quality craftsmanship above mindless consumption. And transparency above everything, as we painstakingly hand-select only the most beautifully-designed, ethically-made goods that put people and our planet first.

And because there’s nothing uglier than unfairness, hidden practices or trickery, we pledge to provide true transparency about the ethically made goods we offer. So you can shop freely, knowing each piece has been responsibly sourced, and expertly handcrafted with sustainable materials. And that the makers and artisans were paid fair wages.

It’s a lofty vision we hope to achieve. But together we can realize it one beautiful, ethical piece at a time.

5) Ten Thousand Villages

We’re a global maker-to-market movement that addresses economic injustice. Because every handcrafted object has a life of meaning behind it. We’re a way for you to shop with intention for ethically-sourced handcrafted wares - and to share in the joy of empowering makers in ten thousand villages.

As a pioneer of fair trade, we do business differently, putting people and planet first. That means you can trust that every purchase and donation you make directly impacts the life and community of its maker in a developing country. Together we break the cycle of generational poverty and ignite social change. #LiveLifeFair

Wall Hanging Set from The Citizenry

6) The Citizenry

We believe our homes should be reflections of the journeys we take. Our personal spaces deserve designs with a soul, a story, and a purpose. It's why we travel the world to develop our exclusive collections of home goods. Country by country, we partner with master artisans, blending our modern style with their time-tested techniques.

By personally traveling to each country and using only local materials, we establish sustainable relationships with our artisans. From there, we sell directly to you online–there is no middleman. This is how we’re able to offer handmade goods, crafted with the highest quality materials, at more reasonable prices than traditional luxury boutiques.

So, if you're ready to join the eco-chic movement, check out some of the stars of sustainable home decor. It's not just about making your home beautiful; it's about making it a beacon of health and sustainability. Let's champion a style that's as good for us as it is for Mother Earth! 🌿✨