The Decorative Touch Ltd. - Interior Designer Kansas City

Mix Cabinetry Finishes for Sophisticated Eclectic Style

2013-04-11T19:00:08Z

I am often asked about mixing cabinet finishes, and is it a trend or is it a timeless statement? I find that its important to be true to yourself, and create the eclectic style you crave! Its a great option to think about mixing and matching cabinetry finishes, and I sure don’t see this as trendy, just another interesting way to make your space special! When you’re dealing with a small space, such as bathrooms, you want to create an illusion of space. The best way to accomplish this will be by using dark cabinetry finishes down low, switching to lighter finishes as you move upward. The dark color works as a visual anchor. Don’t worry about choosing cabinetry finishes that might be trendy at the moment. Trends come and go. Instead of trying to be fashionable, allow your instincts to guide you when making choices about the types of cabinets you want to mix and match. Even though you might be mixing and matching styles and colors, try to stick to a theme. For example, pick natural wood grains or bright colors throughout the entire room. In addition to playing with different cabinet doors, don’t be afraid to try Continue Reading

Interior Design Challenge: How to Keep Bookshelves Looking Chic, Not Cluttered

2013-04-11T18:46:37Z

It’s ok to admit it, when you watch HGTV every night (yes, every night, I know it’s addicting) after work, you get jealous at the awe-inspiring interior design of the houses featured. Then you see it, a wall-to-wall bookshelf completely filled with books and it looks amazing; it even has a ladder to reach the books at the top! Bookshelves are a great opportunity to add character to any room. Here are some ideas to get that ideal bookshelf for your room: Cut the clutter: orderliness is in these days and the best way to have your bookshelf looking organized is to not over-crowd it. Leave some space between each object on the bookshelf instead of cramming a bunch of objects on the shelf. Remember, less is often more! Books books books: This seems obvious (it is a BOOKshelf after all), but utilize books. They will make any room or space look sophisticated. Don’t be afraid to arrange them in unique ways too – some standing upright and some on their backs. Match styles: If you’re looking for a traditional look, use all traditional objects; it will give the bookshelf a look of unity. If you’ve finally decided that you want that Continue Reading

From Downton to Kansas City: Downton Abbey Design Inspiration for Your Home

2013-04-11T18:45:01Z

Post-I don’t know about you, but I’ve gotten hooked on Downton Abbey! I totally love the series, but also admire the Edwardian interior decor, and can get just as hooked admiring all the details in this beautiful home. This form of interior design has experienced a recent surge in popularity thanks to Downton Abbey, the critically-acclaimed British period drama. While full-on early 20th century aristocratic style isn’t for everyone, it’s easy to take some cues from production designer Donal Woods in adding a note of elegance to your own Kansas City home. Deeply saturated colors take center stage on Downton Abbey, particularly burgundy red, paprika, and gold with highlights of emerald, navy, and celery green. Luxurious fabrics like velvet and silk lend a richness that can be borrowed by homeowners today, in the form of draperies or upholstery, which play well against hardwood floors and hand-knotted rugs. Wood takes an important role in furniture and detailing as well, and Downton Abbey’s set designers prefer a medium tone. Antique woods have a sense of depth and complexity, but professional staining can simulate the patina of age, and when paired with red and gold hues the overall effect is a warm ambiance. Continue Reading

Master Bathroom Design: Enhance Your Bath with Draperies

2013-04-11T18:36:52Z

Nothing can change the atmosphere of a master bath quite like well-chosen draperies, but some homeowners find it difficult to settle on a particular style. At The Decorative Touch, we believe in helping make that decision easier–with over 28 years of experience in the field, we have the knowledge and sense of craft to make your master bathroom design truly unique. Adornment. An unconventional hanging style allows these ornate draperies to radiate class and opulence while framing the room’s large window rather than hiding it, softening the the room with creative but timeless elegance. Framing or privacy. Despite adhering to a more modern style, the density and texture of fabric in these draperies conveys a simple elegance. Hung in a classic but versatile style, they can be pulled back to reveal a stunning view, or released from their tiebacks for privacy. Enhancing architecture. Not all draperies are meant for windows, we designed this clever placement of drapery that lends a sense of depth and luxury while drawing attention to the unique form of the master bath. Whether you’ve already envisioned your dream draperies or need a bit of guidance, The Decorative Touch will work with you to make your fantasy Continue Reading

3 Lighting Trends for Traditional Homes

2013-04-11T18:31:59Z

There is a common misconception that a traditional interior design style is fussy and outdated. This couldn’t be farther from the truth as designers and homeowners continue to push the boundaries of traditional design by integrating many current design trends within the style. There are several lighting trends perfect for interior design projects in a traditional home, including: Refined rustic Modern fabrics, shapes, and accents add a refined look to classic rustic lighting. This evolution of the rustic look infuses a modern feel to the casual design style. Layered lighting Many traditional homes boast large, multifunction kitchens that require a variety of lights. Using layered lighting to combine functional with overhead lights will create a warm ambience while providing targeted lighting via can, pendant, under cabinet, and track lighting. Crystal If you want to add a splash of drama and elegance to your home’s interior consider investing in crystal lighting. This lighting style is best integrated into a traditional home in classic chandelier shapes. The Decorative Touch is ready to help you find the perfect lighting for your home. Contact us today to learn more about the variety of lighting options available to complement your Lenexa home’s interior design.

What Are Homeowners Really Looking For in Home Design?

2013-04-11T18:30:27Z

When choosing a home what features and amenities are most important to you? Each prospective buyer has a different set of wants and needs but there are obvious trends in home design that appeal to many buyers. Recently released home survey reports show that kitchen amenities, bathroom features, outdoor spaces, and energy efficient upgrades are at the top of most buyers’ lists. Analyzing the data more closely we find: 65% of respondents report that overall living space and the layout of the home is important. Nine out of ten buyers were willing to pay more for a home with energy efficient amenities that would permanently decrease utility bills. Buyers are seeking storage options and organization. They want linen closets in bathrooms, a walk in pantry in the kitchen, a dedicated laundry room, and garage storage. Kitchens and bathrooms continue the trend of being high on buyers’ priority lists. Respondents report wanting a fully equipped kitchen with plenty of cupboard and counter space and a nicely appointed master bathroom. Outdoor features ranked high on the survey results as well. Buyers are seeking homes with outdoor living spaces such as large yards, patios, and decks that provide additional living space. The home Continue Reading

Using Metallics in Traditional Interior Design

2013-04-11T18:29:34Z

Metallic-inspired decor and home accessories are the number one design trend for 2013. Whether your home is decorated in a sleek, contemporary style, or features a traditional interior design, shiny furnishings and accessories add design details to make your room pop. The use of metallic finishes such are showing up in a variety of room applications, including kitchen fixtures and furniture. Metallic fixtures appeal to homeowners who desire a warm, clean look to their home design. Combined with soft, neutral colors, these pieces accent a room without overwhelming the style. Introducing the punch of metallic finishes in luxurious fabrics draws visual interest, while drawing attention to other, more subtle design elements. Here are some design ideas to help you incorporate more bling into your Kansas City living space: Push your design element by featuring metallic finishes on your ceiling. This is a good way to introduce reflective materials to your room without it competing with your other design choices. Install ceiling tiles in a tin, copper, silver or gold finish. Use metallic ceiling paint to highlight overhead architectural elements Dress your walls in classic gold and cream patterned metallic wallpaper, for instant sophistication. Look for window treatments featuring shots of metallic threads Continue Reading

Get Ready for Spring with Outdoor Design

2013-04-11T18:22:51Z

For many Kansas City homeowners, back yard spaces have become extensions of their kitchen, dining, and family rooms. We are cooking and serving meals outside more often, and entertaining more in our outdoor living spaces. It’s not hard to figure out why – it’s just relaxing to be outdoors. Our customer wanted her outdoor area to feel just as wonderful as the interior of their home. This gorgeous outdoor living area is right here in Kansas City. We created the perfect balance of elements in a welcoming outdoor space. Seating and dining areas, cooking and prepping areas, and perks like an outdoor fireplace with comfortable furniture selected so that the interior kitchen and outdoor area came together as one inviting outdoor gathering area. When working on your outdoor design, you’ll need to decide whether the outdoor kitchen will include running water, refrigeration, electric or gas cooktops and appliances, or not. If so, it can be placed anywhere you desire. Otherwise, locate your outdoor kitchen as close to your indoor kitchen as possible, to make running back and forth to the sink or fridge convenient. Consider the following in your outdoor design: Countertops Sun and wind protection Power lines and trees Decking Continue Reading

Furniture Style Vanities Give Character to Powder Rooms

2013-04-11T18:10:36Z

An antique or vintage dresser repurposed as a vanity and topped with a matching ornate mirror adds more personality and character than a standard cabinet could. Consider rich wood, a low-slung chunky base and sleek custom countertop to create the perfect blend of masculine and feminine aesthetics. This is one of our favorites done by us here in Kansas City… For a Mediterranean flair, consider a furniture style vanity created from a wine chest featuring rustic glimmers of gold to set the stage. Underfoot, ornate ceramic tile blends with terracotta walls, another way to complete beautiful bath! Classic nautical art and a nature-inspired rustic towel bar create a serene atmosphere. A hefty, solid wood vanity topped with a boxy basin backed with cool, organic tiling creates a masculine focus for a powder room. And traditionally inspired, dignified vertical stripes accentuate the lines of the neoclassical mirror. Rich gold-patterned wallpaper is the perfect backdrop for an Asian-influenced furniture style vanity. An ornate, gilded mirror and serious, striped lamp will play well with blue and white china accents. If you are interested in adding a furniture style vanity to your bathroom design contact The Decorative Touch today at 913-888-1388.

Why hire a professional?

2013-03-27T01:42:56Z

As a professional designer, I follow other professionals in the design industry’s blogs and articles on interior design. One of my favorite writers is Maria Killam. I follow Maria’s blog, as I respect her and much of what she has done in the design industry. I feel she is right on target with her latest blog post on “How Do I Know What My Style Is?” I love this question from one of her readers…as it is one that I get from my clients as well. Her answer is perfect, and well said… (I couldn’t say it better myself.) …there is a reason one hires a professional for advice in every category of their life. When you are tackling the interior of your home there is no difference. Mistakes are costly. I value the experts who have invested in the time, energy and education to become experts in their field of study. Interior designers are no different, and finding a good one, is a treasure. Click here to read Maria’s blog post on the subject. -Janine