Interior Snitch

Art Hides can pull it all together!

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 16:08:00 +0000

For this project, Design Studio 2010 was tasked with creating the ambience of a 5-star contemporary hotel suite. The firm responded to this challenge by including a Kyle Bunting cowhide rug, specifically fashioned to mimic the feminine curves of the owner’s Ferrari. The inclusion of this unique rug helped elevate the entrance of the suite from great to extraordinary.

Elevate great design to extraordinary with unique and intriguing pieces, like this custom cowhide wall piece from Kyle Bunting. This home features lots of wide open spaces, so the piece integrates the colors of the surrounding hill country views to bring more of the outdoors into the dining space.

This contemporary living room makes use of neutral hues with a few pops of red. The beautiful cowhide rug displayed in the center of the room is another custom piece from Kyle Bunting. It really anchors the neutral color theme in rich earthy tones complementing the homeowner's outdoors-in space.

This upscale industrial style family room contains a hide rug fashioned from natural shades of grey and ivory. It can be purchased from Interieurs in New York and custom sized to fit any need you may have.

Contact Design Studio 2010 and tell us know how we can help you create a custom art hide for your next project!

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Take a Walk on the Wild Side!

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Fri, 12 Jun 2015 22:24:00 +0000

Want a touch of glam or a hint at your wild side? Choose a bold accent piece, an area rug, or even a whole wall! Careful not to add too many animal patterns though, two styles per space is usually enough. Featured below are a few great samples we think standout as fun, cool, chic designs!

This Houzz fave by Design Studio 2010 adds a touch of the wild to this fun and functional utility room.

How about this custom hide-strip creation from Kyle Bunting designed for a tower stairwell great room accent?

Bold & beautiful this Theodore Alexander faux zebra chair defines drama and cuttin-edge design in the perfect space.

A Saddleman's metallic cowhide rug added to this DS2010 home office space adds

rustic with a twist.

Intended as an understatement, the focal point is the metallic gold ladie's desk. DS2010 chose the zebra print rug to anchor the elements in this modern, clean design.

A fantastic interpretation of black and white, this dining room's head chairs integrate bold zebra print contrasting the white side chairs.

Contact Design Studio 2010 and let us integrate chic animal prints into your next home design project!

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Everything Old is New Again

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Fri, 15 May 2015 15:34:00 +0000

Perfectly placed architectural finds and antiquities integrate texture,
timelessness, and character to modern design.

Everything old is new again with some of these fun design element finds. Check out how these unique approaches strategically pull vintage architectural pieces into modern design.

SOPHISTICATED ECLECTIC: Two vintage chairs covered with a lively zigzag print add a great element of style and surprise to this smartly chic design.

INDUSTRIAL: The "everything old is new again" theme begins at the entry ground floor of this Home & Office space. A reclaimed mechanical room door for the actual mechanicals of the space sets the tone for the marriage of industrial meets timeless elements of design. Reclaimed dark wood ceilings and vintage lighting is repeated in the office space. An antique desk anchors the industrial feel adding a bit of softness to the cleaner, minimal cabinetry and modern seating.

SOFT MODERN: A reclaimed architectural corbel creates a unique side table for this otherwise modern space. The corbel table and fur pillows create diverse textures and are super effective at livening up this boudoir space.

NAUTICAL MODERN: The space featured above is from our South Padre project that Design Studio 2010 took on in 2013. This port-hole side table gives a nod to the sportsman homeowner’s world travels with a classy nautical flare.

Check out other fun projects at our www.designstudio2010.com to see our takes on innovative Interior Design in Austin.

Contact Design Studio 2010 and tell us all about your vintage/modern ideas.

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Traditional with a Twist!

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Fri, 08 May 2015 16:40:00 +0000

Featured below are the two projects that showcase what you can do with your home when you choose to retain your traditional design with an added modern twist!

Northwest Modernized Traditional - Round Rock

-The challenge was to fluidly incorporate favorite furnishings and new pieces into a modernized, softer traditional design.

-Blending old and new, the colors flow seamlessly from living to breakfast, dining, and master areas. Unique twists on traditional cornices and layered window treatments frame spaces throughout the home.

-Rich fabrics and textures, whimsical touches, and a cohesive palette throughout the home lend sophistication and invitingly comfortable elegance to this Northwest Austin home.

-This updated traditional design delivers classic elegance for family-friendly, livable comfort.

Davenport Retreat - Austin

-The challenge was converting a tired, Tuscan-inspired home into a fresh, multi-functional design for a busy family drove the challenge for this Westlake Hills remodel.

-Focusing on the family’s diverse needs for public spaces and their desire for a serene master suite, Design Studio 2010 repurposed prime square footage to optimize seating, storage, and entertaining with elegant comfortable design.

-Transforming prime square footage, Design Studio 2010 redefined the dining space as an inviting “wine bar” with custom pieces, plush fabrics and textures to create conversational groupings for a fun and functional entertaining space.

-The master suite’s palette of rich espresso, creams, champagne, and blues in multi-textured, sculpted fabrics and finishes promise serene comfort throughout.

Contact Design Studio 2010 and let us know if you have a project you'd like us to tackle.

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Black and White Stands the Test of Time

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 19:01:00 +0000

The color combination of black and white has always appealed to people aesthetically because of the stark contrast of black against white. When you're designing a room in your house, black and white can be extremely appealing because the lack of color gives you the freedom to use it purely to play around with unique patterns and designs. You don't have to worry about matching colors to the existing furniture that already makes a statement in your home.

Used properly, black and white can make your house or office space look chic, classic, and elegant. Careful attention to overall design with a small pop of color will prevent the look from appearing cold or too stark. Here are a few tips for making black and white accentuate the elegant feel of your design space.

1.) Using black and white stripes in a room is a classic choice and can spice up a plain-looking area. You can really accentuate the black and white stripes by keeping the accompanying accessories and furniture simple. By making the black and white stripes the focal point, it's easier for them to command the space.

2.) You can use a traditional damask wallpaper and fun matching accessories in varying amounts of damask pattern to ensure that the things don't match too much. This pattern will really stand out when it's placed next to a plain, white wall. When you do this it also gives you a chance to pair these black and white colors with either red, green, pink or other pops of color in accessories.

3.) If you soften the blacks and whites when decorating with this color scheme, it's a great way to ensure that the colors won't look too cold. Using a black color that isn't the purest shade possible gives the room a chance to look softer and more inviting.

Contact Design Studio 2010 and let us know about your black and white design ideas.

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February 20th Love Your Pet Day

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Sat, 22 Feb 2014 00:21:00 +0000

Featured on Houzz Homepage -- Our "famous" Utility Room noted for sharing the love with pets!

Here's How to Show Your Pet Even More Love http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/22974049/list/Here---s-How-to-Show-Your-Pet-Even-More-Love

Houzz: Best of Remodeling 2014 - Austin (Laundry)

DesignStudio2010's Belvedere Utility Room (shown 14 photos down) gains huge popularity giving the family feline a private place to do their business.

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Best of Houzz 2014!

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 20:35:00 +0000

Thanks loyal followers, design peers, and clients for voting our Belvedere Laundry Room into the Houzz: Best of Remodeling 2014 - Austin (Laundry). We're honored to be among the Houzz stars!

If you like this, check out the rest of the Belvedere Project at Design Studio 2010, and like us at Facebook too!

Match 'em up!

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 21:00:00 +0000

At Design Studio 2010, we rarely believe in matching. But here are a few instances where consistency is key.

Grout for tiles. To achieve a clean and modern look, use a consistent one grout color a room. But don't feel like you need to match it throughout your home. If you are selecting grout colors, always have all of the tile samples handy. Even if you think that an accent tile looks better with a different grout, stick to just one, you'll be happier for it.

Hardware in rooms. Along with plumbing fixtures, hardware always looks best when the finishes are consistent. Be careful though with satin nickel and oil rubbed bronze, often times these finishes different drastically from manufacture to manufacture. It's always best to order a sample if you are jumping from different vendors to ensure the look you want.

Most importantly, have fun!

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Silver and gold (not "or")

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Mon, 27 Jan 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Mixing metals in accessories, furniture, lighting, and even fabrics! Silver, gold, pewter, antiqued, cooper, the more the merrier!

Furniture finishes are wonderful to mix-match with other metals. Have a chrome based coffee table? Put a soft or antique gold accessory on top of it, add an iron lamp base and a zinc topped table in the adjacent space. Also, nailhead accents are a great addition to just about any piece of furniture. Just remember, shinny metals show smudgy fingerprints!

Lighting, mix finishes, they are in different rooms! Tip: at Design Studio 2010 love pulling in two tone pieces in secondary spaces, like hallways to tie everything together. Like these examples below.

Clockwise starting with far left: 1) Mason Wide Hammered Iron Pendant 2) Mason Small Hammered Iron Pendant 3) Nurnberg Chandelier 4) Jarrod Carved Wood/Mirror Pendant 5) Belmont Bronze Verdi Iron Floor Lamp 6) Garrison Vintage Brass/Glass Lamp 7) Ennis Antique Brass Web Sphere Lamp

We LOVE metallic fabrics, and we especially love ones that don't break the bank. Linens are great for this purpose. Solids, patterns (woven or printed) don't be afraid to mix them together.

The exception (in our book): in bathrooms and kitchens. Because these spaces often have a LOT going on, we like to match the finish of all of the hardware to keep a consistent look throughout the space. Where often times lighting may have a different finish that picks of a gold speck in the countertop or a silver streak in a tile.

Most importantly, have fun!

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Spice up your bedding

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Thu, 23 Jan 2014 21:00:00 +0000

Somewhere along the way, interior designers lost some creativity points and decided that colors needed to match and that multiple patterns was a bad thing. It's a real shame, because that makes for one dimensional design.

Where to Mix?

Bedding is a great place to play with mixing patterns and textures. Start by buying pieces or "taking them on approval" (a fancy term used by smaller, and often locally owned, retail stores when they have a "final sale" policy. Generally items need to be returned within 48 hours, and you need to put down a credit card for deposit-cards should NEVER be charged though without your notification. This is a great way to try out pieces - bedding and furniture - in your home you may be unsure of) that you like, whether it be for color, texture, and/or pattern. But keep in mind that you will eventually end up with approximately a duvet/coverlet (or both), 2-3 euro pillows (depending on the size of your bed), 2 standard/king pillows, and one or more accent pillows. From there, start trying different combinations together and don't be afraid to try combinations.

Looking for a good basis on where to start? A safe bet is always to mix texture (read: solids with a good feel) and patterns. If it seems to plain, add some more texture or color; if it is too much, tone it down with more solids. Also, there is no rule that says your bedding has to be neutral.

When Design Studio 2010 prepares for client meetings, we pull dozens of fabrics and options bedding and we try all sorts of combinations to find the options that we love, and even then we take alternate options to client meetings. There is no "right answer" of bedding, create something that you LOVE, not what someone else tells you is "proper."

Check out this bedding combinations we did for a Round Rock interior design client.

Mix it up! You don't eat or wear the same thing everyday, why should your bedding be matchy-matchy? Don't be afraid to experiment. Really what's the worst that could happen? You might have to return something? Make the trip back to the store, traffic probably won't be that bad.

Most importantly, have fun!

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Mixing 'n' matching in the new year!

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Wed, 22 Jan 2014 22:52:00 +0000

Yes -- You can mix and match in 2014! Pull in contrasting finishes and textures to add depth and interest to your design. Whether it's adding rustic or vintage accents to a contemporary theme, or multiple metal tones in a kitchen, clever variety spices up even formal spaces. Check out the use of rough, reclaimed wood accent as the backdrop of this modern space.

Or add playful touches like this porthole side table and vintage wood canoe shelf for whimsical functionality. Design Studio 2010 enjoys bringing in the personality and interests or hobbies of the client with tasteful yet fun accents. And it's the perfect place for mixing 'n' matching.

Break the rules once in a while, like in this Pool Bath. Copper, iron and bronze work fabulously together when tastefully combined.

Don't be afraid, just try it!

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ASID Design Excellence Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Thu, 07 Nov 2013 19:47:00 +0000

Everyone at Design Studio 2010 would like to extend a huge thank you to the 28th Annual Austin Chapter ASID Design Excellence Awards for presenting us with FOUR awards. We are so honored to be recognized by our peers and the design community for our work! Check out our award winning project below!

MERIT Rising Star - Remodel

WINNER Rising Star - Product Design / Special Detail

Custom Original Piece

MERIT Rising Star Residence Traditional

WINNER Shining Star Residence Traditional Small

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Pumpkins without the mess!

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Tue, 29 Oct 2013 02:18:00 +0000

Like most people, here at Design Studio 2010, we love Halloween Jack-o-Lanterns. Also, like most people, we hate the mess that cleaning out the innards of a pumpkin can create.

Check out these alternative options below that eliminate the mess! (click on pictures for links to direct websites!)

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Less accent, more color

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Mon, 30 Sep 2013 00:01:00 +0000

There seems to be a rule that you can only have a few "accent" colors in a space. Fortunately this rule never existed in the first place. Take the place of Versailles for example, yes it's a little overkill by today's standards (OK - any period's standards) but the designers and architects weren't afraid to use color, and LOTS of it. Use the same principles in your own designs. Check out these inspiration photos from recent Austin Interior Design projects. Click on the photos to see more from each project.

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There's no place like home

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Wed, 11 Sep 2013 17:27:00 +0000

With the new school year started, I'm sure a lot of college freshman will begin to get a little homesick. Check out this website where you can download free state printables to always remind your kiddos that home is where the heart is.

Don't have kids in college? These make great additions in hallways, bedrooms, bathrooms, really any place you can think of. Use where you and your husband have lived, where your parents are from, where your children were born. Any place that holds that special place in your heart.

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High Design, Low Prices

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Thu, 05 Sep 2013 19:33:00 +0000

We've all seen the designer collections for the big box stores and probably wondered "if this is available here, then why pay the high prices for this designer elsewhere?" Or, why pay thousands of dollars for a sofa when I could get one for $700? There are places to surge and places to definitely save your money.

Accessories: Target is famous for having designers come in and create collections for them. Just recently they released a sneak peak of a new line by Nate Berkus that Design Studio 2010 loves. Frames, candles, pillows, lamps: these are great places to save some cash, and you won't be feeling guilty in 15 months when you are ready for a change.

Casegoods: Tables, dressers, bookshelves, wooden chairs, all great places to save, if you know what to look for. There is no reason to spend your paycheck on a dresser for a guest room or a entry console that you'll hardly use, but always check for quality. If you see a dresser for $200, is it made of real wood or particle board? What kind of hardware does it use? Slides for drawers? If it is a dresser/nightstand that will be regularly used, spend a little more to get drawers and hinges that are easy to use. What does the finish actually look like? If you see an inexpensive "silver-leaf" table, chances are it will also look inexpensive. A few trendy finishes to be wary of knock-off are silver/gold leaf, lacquer, and zinc. Zinc is really hot right now, so if you love this look be prepared to spend some cash to avoid getting a piece you'll be unhappy with in a few weeks.

Upholstery: Sofas and chairs are a place to invest some time and money into, because they will be used so often. If you're planning staying in your home, maybe buy a comfy sectional or a piece that is more specific to the size of space. However, if you are planning on moving homes within the next couple of years, look for a standard size sofa, rather than a sectional or oversized sofa. There is no guarantee your new home will accommodate the configuration of section or size of the sofa you buy, so play things safely. Look for a neutral heavy weight upholstery that still feels soft to the touch, that way, hopefully, no matter where you move your sofa will work. You can always switch up accent pillows to go with your new decor.

Bedding: Spend a little. Don't go out and buy 1000+ thread count sheets, but don't skimp and buy the 100 thread count sheets either. Find a happy medium. Sheets and duvets are items to spend a little more on. But accent pillows and throw blankets, ie. things that will end up on the floor or in a side chair every night, great areas to save.

Kid's Areas: Be smart about it. Beds, dressers, nightstands, things they will be able to grow with, invest in some good pieces. But bedding, chairs, and blankets they will grow out of in a few years (if your'e lucky). Save your money, and get your kid's new accessories as they grow up.

Finishes: at this house in West Lake Hills, we refinished existing cabinets and floors to be able to concentrate the majority of the budget on furnishings, window coverings, lighting, and accessories. See the full project photos here.

At Design Studio 2010 we love mixing and matching price points, and we honestly love help our clients save money where we can.

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why not white after labor day?

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Wed, 04 Sep 2013 23:59:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Tue, 27 Aug 2013 21:26:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 18:15:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 19:09:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 02:30:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 14:53:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Mon, 13 Aug 2012 18:49:00 +0000

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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Design Studio 2010 teams up with HGTV!

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 12:39:00 +0000

Mark your calendars to watch the premier of the new HGTV series of the popular Property Brothers, August 25, 2012 at 8 pm CDST on the HGTV channel.

Design Studio 2010 is pleased to have had a role in the new reality series, Buying and Selling. Our work will be displayed on episode #6 scheduled to air in September. We will post the actual air date of episode #6 once it has been released!

The show, filmed in Austin, Texas, is hosted by Property Brothers, Drew and Jonathan Scott. In this show HGTV casts homeowners who are struggling to sell their homes and looking to buy a new house. It demonstrates the importance of investing in a small renovation and staging the home to sell!

Work by Design Studio 2010, an Austin interior design firm, began as soon as the Austin home was selected in April 2012. We worked closely with HGTV’s crew to design an economical plan to give the house a big bang. The design plan included renovating the kitchen, adding architectural features in the living room, replacing the old brass light fixtures with modern elegant fixtures and of course, revamping the spaces with a fresh coat of paint! Each space was staged with furnishings, accessories, art, and fresh flowers. All this was done in just 3 weeks!

Watch this new show to see how staging a home is crucial for a successful sale. It assists potential buyers to visualize the space and how their furnishings will fit in the space. Finishing touches, like fresh flowers and fruit, are like the jewelry on an outfit, pulling the design together for that complete look.

To see how we took an ordinary house and made it beautiful to welcome potential buyers inside, mark your calendars and watch our blog for updates on Episode #6. The show is scheduled to air in September. We will post the air date as soon as it has been released!

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Casa Cole - Mood Boards

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Hopkins) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 13:20:00 +0000

Interior designers often use 'mood boards' as a way to communicate their design ideas to clients or a design team. As we all know, interior designers are visual and what better way to portray an idea than through a collage of pictures!

Here are a couple mood boards that I designed for Casa Cole, an online store full of interior products.
www.casacole.com

'GOLDEN HOLIDAY GLITZ'

Floor Lamp: Arteriors Home, Miramar Glass/Brass Floor Lamp - http://casacole.com/lights-amp-decor/lightning/lamps/miramar-glass-brass-floor-lamp.html
Mirror: Arteriors Home, Galaxy Star Iron Mirror - http://casacole.com/lights-amp-decor/decor/mirrors/galaxy-star-iron-mirror.html
Accessory: Arteriors Home, Anne Metal Champagne Bucket - http://casacole.com/lights-amp-decor/decor/accessories/anne-metal-champagne-bucket.html
Side Table: Arteriors Home, Costello Iron Accent Table Polished Nickel - http://casacole.com/rugs-furniture/furniture/tables/costello-iron-accent-table-pn-arteriors-home-2005.html
Custom Draperies: Metallic Damask Fabric Panels: http://casacole.com/graphic-panels/metallic-damask/metallic-damask.html

'SPICE IT UP'

Floor Screen: Arteriors Home, Stephan Antique Mirror Room Screen - http://casacole.com/lights-amp-decor/decor/accessories/stephan-antique-mirror-room-screen.html
Mirror: Cyan Design, Montana Round Mirror - http://casacole.com/lights-amp-decor/decor/mirrors/montana-round.html
Poof Ottoman: Surya, Poof - 27 Venetian Red Ottoman - http://casacole.com/rugs-furniture/furniture/seating/pouf-ottoman-27.html
Pendant Light Fixture: Arteriors Home, Armand Rivera Iron Pendant in Matte Silver - http://casacole.com/lights-amp-decor/lightning/chandeliers/armand-riviera-iron-pendant.html
Desk: Arteriors Home, Phillip Wood Desk in Red Lacquer - http://casacole.com/rugs-furniture/furniture/tables/phillip-wood-desk-arteriors-home-6549.html

'WHITE WINTER WONDERLAND'

Pendant Light Fixture: Cyan Design, Mediterranean Pendant Light - http://casacole.com/lights-amp-decor/lightning/chandeliers/mediterranean-pendant.html
Accent Chair: Arteriors Home, Laurent Off White Side Chair - http://casacole.com/rugs-furniture/furniture/seating/laurent-offwhite-chair.html
Area Rug: Surya Rugs, Candice Olson Animal Print Rug CAN-1933 - http://casacole.com/rugs-furniture/rugs/animal/surya-rugs-can-1934.html
Floor Screen: Arteriors Home, Natalie Gloss White Mirrored Screen - http://casacole.com/lights-amp-decor/decor/accessories/natalie-gloss-white-mirrored-screen.html
Table Lamp: Cyan Design, Knox Table Lamp - http://casacole.com/lights-amp-decor/lightning/lamps/knox-table-lamp.html

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