Build Your Design Team: Spotting Your Dream General Contractor

So, you've got this fantastic vision for your space, and now you need the right maestro to conduct the renovation symphony. Don't worry! I've got your back on how to spot a dream general contractor without losing your sanity.

Finding the perfect general contractor can make all the difference in turning your dreams into a tangible, well-constructed reality. But how do you recognize your dream general contractor? Let's delve into the qualities of an ideal partner in the construction journey, with examples from my own experiences with my own superstar preferred General Contractor, MAG Development Inc. as proof.

Source: Abode Above Interiors, Contractor: MAG Development Inc., Project Emerald

Choosing the right general contractor is like picking the perfect dance partner for a waltz. So, let's break it down – what qualities make a contractor your dream collaborator? Let's talk about it!

Vision Alignment: Your dream general contractor is not just there to swing hammers and lay bricks; they're your collaborator in bringing your vision to life. They listen, understand, and align their expertise with your dreams, ensuring that the end result reflects your unique style and requirements.

Excellent Communication Skills: Communication is the backbone of any successful project. Your ideal contractor is a great listener, responsive to your inquiries, and able to explain complex construction jargon in a way that makes sense. You should feel comfortable bouncing ideas back and forth throughout the entire process.

Proven Track Record: A dream general contractor has a portfolio that speaks volumes. They proudly showcase their past projects, demonstrating a range of styles and a consistent level of quality. Checking references and testimonials can provide insights into their reliability, professionalism, and the satisfaction of previous clients.

Source: MAG Development Inc., designed by Abode Above Interiors, Project Manton

Transparency in Pricing: No one likes budget surprises, especially in the middle of a construction project. Your ideal contractor is transparent about costs from the get-go, providing detailed and realistic estimates. They help you understand where your money is going and guide you on making informed decisions that align with your budget.

Time Management Expertise: Time is money, especially in construction. Your dream contractor respects deadlines and has a solid track record of completing projects on time. They also manage timelines effectively, ensuring that different aspects of the project are seamlessly coordinated to avoid unnecessary delays.

Adaptability and Problem-Solving Skills: Construction projects are notorious for unexpected challenges. Your ideal partner is not easily flustered but instead approaches challenges with a solution-oriented mindset. Their adaptability ensures that unexpected hiccups don't derail the entire project but are seen as opportunities for creative problem-solving.

Source: Abode Above Interiors, Contractor: MAG Development Inc., Project Hill House

Licensed and Insured: Your dream contractor operates above board. They are licensed, meeting the necessary legal requirements, and carry comprehensive insurance. This not only protects you but also showcases their commitment to professionalism and adherence to industry standards.

Attention to Detail: Quality is in the details, and your dream general contractor is meticulous in their work. From the choice of materials to the finishing touches, they take pride in delivering a result that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.

Positive Reputation in the Industry: Word travels fast in the construction world. Your dream contractor has a positive reputation among subcontractors, suppliers, and others in the industry. This reputation is a testament to their integrity, reliability, and the overall positive experience they provide.

Source: Abode Above Interiors, Contractor: MAG Development Inc., Project Oak

Personality Fit: Last but certainly not least, your ideal contractor is someone you enjoy working with. Construction projects can be intense, so having a contractor with a positive attitude, a sense of humor, and a collaborative spirit can make the process enjoyable, even when faced with challenges.

As an Interior Designer, I can’t stress enough the importance of finding a General Contractor that exemplifies all of these amazing qualities, ensuring that projects are successfully and beautifully executed. Recognizing your dream general contractor involves a combination of tangible qualities and that elusive "click" factor. By prioritizing these qualities, you increase your chances of finding a partner who not only meets but exceeds your expectations in turning your construction dreams into reality. Happy hunting!

You’re about to fall in LOVE, with this color palette!💘

Hope you're feeling fabulous because we've got something extra special for you this month. Picture this: sassy reds, playful pinks, and a whole lot of love. Get ready to flirt with fun and dive into romance with our love-inspired palette: our Smooch Color Palette!

What's the Scoop on ‘‘Smooch’?

Enveloped in a fiery passion, this palette features a mesmerizing fusion of bold and flashy corals alongside rich, vibrant reds. These fierce hues embody the spirit of divas and are guaranteed to captivate and command attention.

Where can it go? This palette is perfectly suited for:

• Living Room: Create a vibe that's perfect for heart-to-hearts and spontaneous dance parties.

• Bedroom: Turn your space into a romantic haven – because every night should feel like date night.

• Dining Area: Set the stage for fancy dinners or casual brunches that feel both chic and playful.

• Office: Make your workspace as sassy as you are – it's time for some serious #BossVibes

Palette Features:

• Passionate Red: Oh honey, it's bold, it's fierce – the ultimate color of passion and love.

• A deeper red that's giving off sophistication and warmth. It's like a stylish hug for your home.

• Light, airy, and dreamy peach, bringing that touch of romance like a bouquet of fresh blooms.
  

Why Choose ‘Smooch’? Because, Why Not?

• Romance Rules: Fall in love with your space, darling. This palette brings all the warmth and feels.

• Positive Energy Boost: Red and pink are the ultimate mood lifters. Say hello to joy and good vibes.

If you're ready to sprinkle some love and sass into your space, hit us up. Let's chat about turning your place into the ultimate love nest, Abode Above style!

And don’t forget to check out our catalog of over 50+ beautiful Custom Color Palettes available over in our Color Shop!

Sending you all the fabulous February vibes😘

Color Drenching 101: The Bold and the Beautiful!

Hey, fabulous folks! Jazmyn here, and today we're diving headfirst into a trend that's as bold as my favorite lipstick – color drenching! We're not talking about a splash or a pop; we're talking about immersing your space in a sea of vibrant hues that'll make your heart sing. So, grab your shades because we're about to explore the art of color drenching and how to pull it off with ease!

Source: Decorilla

Color drenching is like a vibrant dance party for your space, where colors take center stage and do a little cha-cha on your walls. It's not for the faint of heart, but trust me, once you dive in, there's no turning back. It's about immersing your room in one dominant color or a stunning palette that reflects your personality and style.

Choose Your Palette: Be Fearless! Color drenching starts with choosing a fearless palette. Think beyond the usual suspects and embrace a range of colors that resonate with your vibe. Whether it's jewel tones, pastels, or a mix of everything, let your imagination run wild.

Embrace the Whole Room: Walls, Ceilings, Floors! Don't hold back – color drenching is all about embracing the whole room. Splash those vibrant hues on the walls, extend it to the ceilings, and don't forget the floors. The goal is to create a seamless, immersive experience that envelopes you in a cocoon of color.

Source: ArchiPro Australia

Go Monochromatic or Mix It Up: Your Call! Decide whether you want a monochromatic dream or a mix-and-match fiesta. Monochromatic color drenching involves using variations of a single color for a harmonious look. If you're feeling adventurous, mix it up with contrasting or complementary colors for a vibrant and dynamic energy.

Play with Textures: Depth and Dimension! Texture is your secret weapon in color drenching. Mix matte finishes with glossy surfaces, incorporate textured fabrics, and experiment with patterns. It adds depth and dimension to your colorful haven, making it visually intriguing.

Statement Furniture: Let it Shine! Introduce statement furniture that anchors your color-drenched space. Whether it's a bold sofa, an eye-catching coffee table, or vibrant chairs, let these pieces shine amidst the colorful backdrop. It's like having your furniture take a bow on a vibrant stage.

Balance with Neutrals: A Touch of Calm! While we're all about the color explosion, a touch of calm is essential. Integrate neutral elements – maybe a crisp white or soothing gray – to balance the boldness. It provides a visual break and prevents sensory overload.

Lighting Drama: Glow Up Your Palette! Lighting is the unsung hero in color drenching. Experiment with different light sources to enhance the drama of your palette. Think pendant lights, floor lamps, and wall sconces that not only illuminate but also contribute to the overall color story.

Start Small if Nervous: Color Pops! If you're feeling a bit nervous, start small with color pops. Choose a neutral base and inject vibrant accents through accessories, cushions, or smaller furniture pieces. It's like dipping your toes into the color-drenching pool before taking the plunge.

Source: The Decorating Centre UK

Test Paint Samples: Get Hands-On! Before committing to a full-color immersion, test paint samples on your walls. Colors may look different in natural light, so give them a chance to shine in your specific space. It's like a dress rehearsal for your walls.

Trust Your Instincts: It's Your Space! Above all, trust your instincts. Your home is your canvas, and color drenching is an expression of your personality. If it feels right to you, then it's absolutely right for your space. Let your intuition be your guide.

So, there you have it, design enthusiasts – a crash course on color drenching and how to pull it off with ease. Whether you're going for a monochromatic oasis or a kaleidoscope of hues, let your space be a celebration of color that reflects the vibrant spirit of you. Here's to living life in full color! 🌈🏡✨ #ColorDrenchingMagic

Project Spotlight: Creating A Modern Bathroom

Project Manton: A Black and White Bathroom Oasis

Picture this – a bathroom that's an absolute vibe! Imagine kicking back in a space that's all about clean lines, relaxation, and serious style…

Color Palette: In this space I opted to use black and white—a classic combo that's bound to level up this bathroom with its metallic notes. The vibe is clean, slick, and bringing some serious design magic.

Soaker Tub: Now, at the heart of it all, we've got this matte black freestanding soaker tub – the MVP of relaxation. Sleek, jet-black vibes on the outside, against those crisp white tiles. It's a whole mood, ready to take your self-care to the next level.

Wood Tile Accents: Not to be ignored are the beautiful wood tile accents with storage niches that wrap around the shower enclosure, adding warmth, function and character to an otherwise pristine space. It's all about finding that sweet spot between modern vibes and natural elements for aesthetically grounded design.

Art Deco Wallpaper: Bringing in the personality is this beautiful Art Deco wallpaper. This ain't your grandma's wallpaper – we're talkin' geometric patterns and metallic accents that scream style. It's like bringing a touch of Hollywood glamour into your daily routine.

Waterfall Shower with Body Jets: Hold up, because here comes the star of the show – the waterfall shower with body jets. It's like having a spa day at home! Brushed gold fixtures keep it sleek, tying in perfectly with the fixtures throughout the rest of the space for a vibe that's both modern and luxurious.

In a nutshell, this bathroom design is all about bringing that Abode Above energy into this space. From the superchill soaker tub to the glam Art Deco wallpaper and the spa-like shower – it's all a dream that I think we can agree we’d love to enjoy every day!

Renewed: The Color Palette of the New Year

As we step into this new year, there's no better time to refresh and renew the spaces we live in. A simple coat of paint—or a more deliberate design approach—can make home transformation so easy, with just one tool! And I am thrilled to introduce you to the latest addition to our Designer Color Palettes– a curated selection designed to be the perfect palette cleanser for a fresh start. Introducing, the one and only Renewed Color Palette.

What's the Scoop on ‘Renewed’?

Picture this: familiar tones that scream sophistication and modern calm. Our palette takes inspiration from the blissful view of a beach sunset, a sensory exploration of the colors, light and feeling. It's a mix of deep warm tones and subtle shades of blue that'll give your space that perfect blend of vibrancy and tranquility.

Where can it go? This palette is perfectly suited for:

• Living Room: Cozy vibes for Netflix marathons or hosting your family.

• Bedroom: Zen-like tranquility for the ultimate beauty sleep.

• Office: A boost to your creativity in a space that's as cool as you are.

• Kitchen/Dining: Turn your cooking space into a gourmet haven.

Palette Features:

• A warm taupe reminiscent of sunlit sand, symbolizing tranquility and new beginnings.

• Deep emerald green, bringing the lush beauty of nature indoors, fostering a sense of growth and harmony.

• Soft blush peach, introducing a gentle and feminine element, promoting a renewed sense of self.

Why Choose ‘Renewed’?

• Exclusivity: This color palette is a signature creation, ensuring a unique and distinguished aesthetic for your space.

• Design Expertise: Crafted by a skilled, color-obsessed interior designer, each color is chosen with meticulous attention to detail and design principles.

• Tailored to You: The palette is highly customizable, allowing you to personalize it according to your specific preferences.

If you're ready to embrace the new year with a renewed sense of style, reach out to us to schedule a consultation. Let's work together to create a space that not only reflects your individuality but also serves as the perfect palette cleanser for the exciting journey that lies ahead.

And don’t forget to check out our catalog of over 50 beautiful Custom Color Palettes available over in our Color Shop! Happy Designing!😀