… or sweet… or tranquil… or sophisticated… or cheerful… or sporty… (felt like I was naming off Spice Girls or the 7 Dwarfs for a second there…)

Summer is an awesome time to paint. But when contemplating the options feels a bit like counting stars in the night sky, it’s no wonder that many are overwhelmed with the thought of it. Regardless of whether you love or hate to paint, color can have a remarkable affect on us - not just psychologically but physiologically.

Few people realize that color affects our mood, our appetite, even how well we are able to concentrate or relax in a space. Literally, color can make or break a room. Need I also mention that 1 in 10 men are also color blind?

Because color can be so complicated, and because I know the difference the right color can make, a color consultation is one of my favorite services I offer. I love being able to work with someone for what could be as little as an hour, and be able to provide them with peace of mind and confidence that they will love their color selection.

Is there a painting project on your To Do list this summer? Call or write today to schedule your consultation.

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As we jump back on our tour of incredible spaces, let’s adjourn to the bedroom.

Essential characteristics for a successful space: Think COMFORT - soft textures, pleasant lighting, cozy furniture. Think RELAXING - chose colors and patterns that make you happy and peaceful. Think PERSONAL - this is one of the most private and sacred rooms in your home. Create a space to nurture and honor yourself.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Stair systems can be pretty standard. Rise, run, railing - end of story. But that doesn’t have to be the case. The following images illustrate how a staircase can contribute to the interest and character of a home.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

As we continue our tour of sensational spaces, we move from the mudroom to the kitchen. This is one of the most important rooms in your home - not just for daily function and family time, but as a major selling point for your house.

Essential characteristics for a successful space: durable/easy to clean materials, an efficient work triangle, and several layers of effective lighting. Other details to consider include quality cabinetry, abundant storage opportunities, desk area for bill paying or homework, and well-suited for conversation/entertaining.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Last but not least, metal is also trending strongly these days. Another classic element to design, metal is great for adding variety, sophistication, and a touch of sparkle to a space. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, but be mindful that different finishes may support or conflict with the character or vibe of a room.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Some time has passed since I’ve done much Pinning. My Pinterest consumption got a little out of control back in the days of wedding planning. Now that I’ve had a respectable break, I thought it wouldn’t hurt to explore some seasonal imagery. All good things in moderation, right?

How will you be decorating for the fall this year?

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Some projects are small, some projects are large. Some projects are fast, some projects take years.

As you will recall from previous posts (here and here), I have had the fortunate opportunity to participate in the Endicott Hotel renovation for the last year or so. At long last, our chapter has closed on this project and the happy tenants have moved in.

The images below capture the large unit (blues/green), the smaller unit (reds/orange), and the common areas we furnished/staged.

First, I’ve got to say that I’m sorry for such a brief and ever-so-slightly lame post last week. Yes, things are busy but that is good! Today I thought I would offer a few snippets of all my “things in progress.”

Project 1: Front entry/laundry room renovation. This has been in design development for a while now, but it looks like construction is right around the corner!

Project 2: Kitchen reno. This active family can’t wait to tear down the wall currently separating their kitchen from the dining and living room areas.

Project 3: New office space. I recently helped a business get settled into their new office. These chairs worked perfectly with our palette.

Project 4: Another mudroom/laundry renovation. I have to admit, the storage solution for this mudroom is spectacular!

Project 5: Commercial restoration. This project has been under major construction since their groundbreaking ceremony I last posted on here. Today will actually be the first time the ladies and I have been able to enter the building for almost a year. Can’t wait to see the progress!

In other news… I’m working out. Excercise has always been one of those things that I’ve struggled to prioritize. With the wedding on the way, I have been following through pretty well on a morning exercise regime.

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I’ve been practicing up-do’s. With a DIY wedding, I figured it wouldn’t hurt to at least entertain the thought of doing my own hair. While I am not 100% which direction to take, it has been fun learning how to style my hair differently. You’ve got to check out thesmallthingsblog.com. She’s fantastic!

I have a super productive day on tap so it’s time for me to go. See you again soon!

Be still my heart. I have a MAJOR thing for Chesterfield sofas. They are classic, sophisticated, textural, versatile, awesome, fantastic, wonderfulness. Seriously. I can barely think. This is a problem.

Of course you don’t have to take my word for it. See for yourself!

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

(I’ve got to laugh). Originally this post was going to feature bold oranges, reds, and golds - all the beautiful colors of the season, right? But then I looked outside my window and realized - you missed peak season kiddo… So, while this post may not feature the breadth of color that was originally planned, I still think these warm tonal spaces are quite delicious just the same.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5