zacharylukedesigns

Why Timeless Interior Design Always Outperforms Trends

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 07:33:34 GMT

Design trends come and go—but a timeless interior never feels dated. Homeowners and commercial clients alike are starting to move away from trend-chasing and toward intentional, enduring design choices that age gracefully over time.

At  Zachary Luke Designs  , timeless interiors are about balance, craftsmanship, and thoughtful restraint.

What Makes a Design Truly Timeless

Timeless design is not boring—it’s refined. It’s built on fundamentals that remain relevant across decades.

Key characteristics include:

Neutral, layered color palettes
Quality materials over novelty finishes
Clean architectural lines
Balanced proportions
Purposeful lighting design

Rather than asking “What’s popular right now?”, timeless design asks, “What will still feel right in 10–20 years?”

The Problem With Trend-Driven Design

Trends can be exciting, but relying too heavily on them often leads to:

Faster visual fatigue
Costly redesigns
Reduced resale appeal
Shortened material lifespan

Bold trends work best when used selectively—as accents, textures, or furniture pieces—rather than as permanent architectural decisions.

How We Design for Longevity

Our approach focuses on:

Anchoring each space with timeless finishes
Introducing personality through art, textiles, and styling
Designing layouts that prioritize flow and function
Choosing materials that age beautifully, not just photograph well

This allows spaces to evolve naturally without losing their identity.

Timeless Design Is a Smart Investment

Clients who choose timeless design benefit from:

Stronger resale value
Less frequent renovations
Consistent visual appeal
A space that grows with their lifestyle

If you want an interior that still feels intentional years from now, timeless design is the answer.

Reach out to Zachary Luke Designs to start designing a space that lasts.

The Role of Custom Design in Creating a Home That Feels Personal

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 07:33:32 GMT

A well-designed space should do more than look good—it should feel unmistakably yours. That’s where custom interior design makes the difference.

At  Zachary Luke Designs  , customization is not about excess—it’s about alignment.

Why One-Size-Fits-All Design Falls Short

Pre-packaged designs often miss the mark because they don’t account for:

How you live day-to-day
How you entertain or unwind
Your aesthetic preferences
Your architectural constraints

Custom design bridges the gap between form and function.

What “Custom” Really Means in Interior Design

Custom design doesn’t always mean fully bespoke furniture. It means:

Tailored layouts based on your lifestyle
Material selections chosen for your needs
Purpose-driven spatial planning
Design decisions that reflect your values and taste

Every element serves a reason—not just a look.

Our Client-Focused Design Process

We start by listening—before sketching, sourcing, or selecting finishes. Our process centers on:

Understanding how you use your space
Identifying priorities and pain points
Translating lifestyle needs into design solutions
Executing with precision and clarity

The result is a space that feels natural, intuitive, and distinctly personal.

Custom Design Creates Emotional Connection

Clients consistently tell us the same thing after a project is complete: “It finally feels like home.”

That emotional connection comes from intentional design choices made specifically for you—not pulled from a template.

If you’re ready to move beyond generic design and into something truly personal, custom design is the difference.

Contact Zachary Luke Designs to create a space that reflects who you are.

Why AutoCAD Drafting Matters for Interior Design Projects

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 09:30:17 GMT

AutoCAD drafting allows homeowners and businesses to see clear, accurate layouts before any design work begins. This prevents costly mistakes, improves communication with contractors, and ensures the space functions exactly as intended.

For Charlotte clients planning renovations, remodels, or new construction, AutoCAD drawings create a solid foundation for material selection, space planning, and furniture placement. Whether you're redesigning a kitchen or planning a commercial layout, drafting ensures your project moves forward smoothly and efficiently.

Top Interior Design Trends in Charlotte, NC for 2025

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 09:30:15 GMT

Interior design trends in Charlotte continue shifting toward warm minimalism, natural finishes, and open, bright layouts. Homeowners are prioritizing functionality, clean lines, and timeless color palettes that age well and support modern living.

Popular trends include natural wood accents, textured fabrics, statement lighting, and multi-purpose spaces. Whether you're updating a home or redesigning a business interior, these trends help create a polished, modern look that feels elevated without sacrificing comfort.

Brown: Trending or here to stay?

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 14:55:18 GMT

Do popular colors go in and out of style? Brown is trending!

We are seeing dark brown and earthy tones in fashion and design playing a big role this season. Is this just a trend or here to stay? Let’s talk about it! As a Modern Transitional Designer I definitely have a different opinion on trends and how they come and go. I tend to make design decisions that aren’t trending, but that will last over the years.

What the trend evidence is saying

Brown especially darker, richer browns is showing up a lot in 2025 interior and design trends. Designers are choosing chocolate‑tones and earthy hues this season more than ever.
Pantone’s Color of the Year 2025 is Mocha Mousse, a warm brown, which signals that browns (not just light browns or tans) are getting a lot of love. We will be doing a post about all of the main colors of the year for 2026 soon!
In home design, dark wood and dark brown is making a comeback in kitchens, floors, cabinetry, etc. This is more of a traditional color, so in Modern Transitional Design, it is always in and here to stay as an accent or main focus.
Reports are saying there’s a shift away from cool grays and minimalism toward warmer, more natural neutrals and brown is a key player in that shift. Again, in Transitional design, grey, blue, beige, taupe, cream- these are always go-to colors.

Why dark brown could last

Here are a few reasons I believe dark brown is more “here to stay.”

Timelessness & versatility
Brown is an “earth tone” -it pairs well with many colors and materials (wood, leather, stone, metals). I love to mix materials. It can feel warm, grounding, and versatile.
Warmth over cold neutrals
In design trends right now, there's a push against sterile, cold neutrals (like some grey’s or stark whites, but I will always choose these as main or accent colors, they are classic). Darker warm tones help bring more coziness and depth, which many people find more sustainable for long-term use.
Flexibility in application
Dark brown doesn’t have to dominate. You can incorporate it as an accent (furniture, trim, cabinetry, accessories-which is what I suggest) or as the main color, either in a office or library, which keeps it contained to a smaller space and not overbearing. I do like the idea of color washing an area like this in a brown-teal, forest or sage green would also look great in these options.
Evolution
The exact hue, undertone, or finish of “dark brown” may shift- e.g. more chocolate, espresso, mocha, or even brown with subtle undertones (red, warm, cool) — but the overall category has strength and we are always loving this color category.

How to possibly misuse this color

Overuse or mismatch : If a dark brown is used without contrast, in low light, with heavy textures, or with dull accents, it can feel heavy, dated, or overly traditional.
Trend swings : Fashion and interiors shift. While brown is strong now, tastes can move for example toward bolder colors, bright tones, or lighter neutrals in certain areas.
Personal style matters : Just because something is trending broadly doesn’t guarantee it will work in your space or wardrobe I have ALWAYS said this. Just because other people like it, doesn’t mean you have to. I have been vocal about my distain for certain trends and that’s on being a Modern Transitional Designer. No apologies! Undertones, lighting, and scale all matter and I will continue to preach this!

In conclusion, yes brown is a trending fashion color right now, but I remember the early 2000’s when brown boots and bags were all the rage, it will continue to come and go as a trend. In design though, it is a traditional color that can be modernized, so, its’ here to stay!

What's The Difference in Types of Design?

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 23:29:55 GMT

Interior Designer vs. Interior Architecture vs. Interior Decorator: What’s the Difference?

When people talk about transforming a space, they often think: I nterior Designer , I nterior Architect , and I nterior Decorator are the same. But while these titles go hand in hand in some areas, they’re actually very different in education, design and responsibilities.

Whether you're renovating a home, redesigning an office, or just curious about career paths in this field, it’s necessary to understand what each of these professions really means. Here’s a breakdown of how interior design, interior architecture, and interior decorator differ and where they work together.

1. What is Interior Design?

Interior design is the art and science of understanding people's behavior to create functional spaces within a building. Interior designers go beyond just aesthetics—they plan, research, coordinate, and manage projects from start to finish.

Planning:

Space planning and layout
Selecting materials, finishes, furniture, and lighting, etc
Ensuring designs meet building codes and safety regulations
Collaborating with architects and contractors
Often use CAD software to create design plans

Designing a hotel lobby to be both visually pleasing and able to handle high foot traffic with the right materials and flow.

2. What is Interior Architecture?

Interior architecture is both architecture and interior design. It involves structural changes and architectural elements within interior spaces. (To note: Not Exterior.)

Planning:

Redesigning structural layouts (e.g., removing or adding walls)
Working closely with architects and engineers
Often involved and overseeing from the beginning of a construction or renovation project

Converting an old industrial warehouse into a modern coworker space. Or any residential property with a kitchen or bathroom renovation.

3. What is an Interior Decorator?

Interior decorators focus exclusively on the aesthetics of a space. They come in after the structural and spatial planning is complete to style and furnish a room. Their job is to make a space visually appealing and aligned with the client’s taste. An Interior Designer also does this but not ONLY this.

Planning:

Selecting color schemes, textiles, and furniture
Styling shelves, walls, and accessories
Enhancing the mood or theme of a room
Often hired for “makeovers” or seasonal updates
No formal education or certification is required (though many decorators do have training or certifications)
Strong sense of style and understanding of color theory and trends

Example: Decorating a living room with coastal-themed furniture, light fixtures, and art to create a beachy vibe. Any sort of decor and accessories.

Which One Do You Need?

Renovating your kitchen? You might need an I nterior Designer or I nterior Architect , especially if you’re moving walls or plumbing.
Styling your living room? An I nterior Decorator can help you refresh the space without any construction. And again, an Interior Designer can do this also.
Reconfiguring a commercial space or historic building? You’ll likely need an I nterior Architect to handle that.

We hope that this helped you understand the differences in both the title and role they play in design. I do both! Interior Architect and Design and have the education and degrees in each. There is a Fall Promo going on right now, so if you’re in need of my expertise, contact us today!

10 Key Elements to Home Interior Design

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 18:12:04 GMT

From Basics to Essentials in Design

There are basic rules to design: Wall color, Flooring, Decor and Design, but there are many more aspects included to expand on those areas. You want to have balance in your space. Scale is very important, as far as lamps, decor and artwork goes. You want to choose a style for your home, mixing design does not always work, so choosing a theme and flow that looks best to you is important. It is all in the deets! Details make your space unique and help your room have a “finished” look. The main interior design rule is, The Rule of Thirds. This states that visually, you want your scale in 3’s. That could be color, furniture, decor, etc.

Keeping that in mind, I have put a list together of the 10 main rules that I like to follow:

Accent Color-a bold color in a smaller amount ie: bottom cabinets, kitchen island, powder room

Rug-rugs on hardwood or tile, under a sofa or dining table

New Hardware-an easy way to spruce up cabinetry in kitchen or bathroom

Neutral Paint-choosing a color or multiple rooms for flow and unity

Lighting-cohesive lighting that mixes and matches well together

Accessories: Lamps, pillows, decor, or plants

Art Work and Mirrors- pay attention to scale and that it goes with your theme/design

Wallpaper-lovely addition to any space ie: dining rooms, library, powder room, ceilings

New flooring or flooring refresh-Fresh stain on hardwoods or replacing flooring

Drapes/Window Covering- My Number 1 suggestion to finish a space and bring everything together

If any of these examples sound achievable to you, reach out to Zachary Luke Designs. We can help you with all of your Modern Transitional Design needs! We are now getting closer to Fall, so it’s the perfect time for a project.

Summer Project Time

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 14:04:19 GMT

Are you ready for a home refresh? Now is the time!

Wow! June is almost over, and July is on its way! Summer is the perfect time to figure out your new home project. While this is also the time of year most people travel, it is also the perfect time to plan. When summer ends, the weather starts changing and the kids or grandkids go back to school, that’s when you start looking around your house saying “We need a change.” But then your project lead time is 8-10 weeks and we are already into Thanksgiving. Yup! That’s how fast the time goes!

Doing a consultation never hurts. Having me meet you to see the space and make a plan is just the beginning. If you are thinking about a main space, then getting a jump start on that is your best bet! These spaces are where you entertain the most, what most people see, and are also usually, the largest. For example: your family room, kitchen, and dining room. A fresh coat of paint and new decor can do wonders for a space. The items that do take a bit more time are new furniture, custom drapery, and reupholstery, but SO worth it in the end.

Here are some before and after photos of installations I’ve done this spring. Some large and some smaller, but you can see the world of difference. So, if you are thinking about doing a project in the near future, now is the time to get that going! Let’s get you end of summer/ fall ready to entertain.

Before and After Playroom to Home Office

2. Before and After Dining Room

3. Before and After Primary Bedroom

5 Design Rules I Live By

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 19:53:33 GMT

And you should too...

I have gone over all these rules many times over the years, and here we are going over them again. I will continue over and over saying that these are the 5 most important rules that go into my design. These are also easy rules to follow and achieve. It does not take a lot of money or time to do this and make your home look fabulous!

First, it would be Walls. Wallpaper/Wall Covering to liven up a space. Examples would be in a home office or library. A powder room or foyer. Accent Wallpaper, not paint, and you have a finished and chic space!

Secondly, Color. Yes, I have talked about sprucing up your space with color a hundred times! And I’ll talk about it another hundred. :) Pops of color on the walls, the rug, the decor, the pillows, the bathroom, the bedroom, and/or sunroom. I’m not into maximization, too many different colors CAN give you a headache in my opinion.

Third, Rugs. Remember when I said adding in a color with a rug? Well, it doesn’t have to be colorful, but there are correct placements for a rug and any rug that goes with your design, will look great. Rugs on wood floors, specifically. Rugs under your dining table, under your sofa and your bed are the exact places they’re needed. This rug should fit and needs to be the correct scale. If you need to go price conscious, then go for it. I’ve shown many examples in my design and videos, so go check them out @zacharylukedesigns on all social platforms.

Fourth, To-Scale Decor. It is hard to describe in writing, but if you have a large open room, you shouldn’t have small decor. The lamps should be tall, the mirrors and art should be large. Tall plants and vases. If you have a smaller or more enclosed space, do not overcrowd it so that it looks even smaller. Fill your spaces with meaningful pieces and keep it fresh and balanced.

Lastly, Windows: Blinds, Drapes, Shutters, & Roman Shades. The possibilities are endless, especially with custom drapery. I measure and order custom drapery constantly, and each client is always overjoyed. A finished window pulls together the whole design look and feel.

I can help you achieve all of these 5 important design rules that I live by. Happy Spring from Zachary Luke Designs. Let me help you with your interior design project!

Closets 101:

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 14:36:05 GMT

From Basic to Beautiful

Do you want to take your closet beyond basic?

There are endless possibilities for your closet spaces and to bring them to their fullest potential. Whether you have a small entryway coat closet or an amazing walk-in closet, we have many ways to help you maximize this space. When you think of doing tasks and updating your home, a closet isn’t necessarily at the top of the list, BUT this is the type of space that a little can go a long way! A little sprucing up in a new space can bring you such joy!

Here are 5 ways to make that happen:

Color! I will preach color until I’m blue(get it?!) in the face! Adding color to the walls will immediately brighten up the space. If you want to add the color to the shelving and cabinets, and leave the walls white, that would be fun too! A wallpaper or wall covering always looks amazing in a closet, or an accent wallpaper on the ceiling-umm yes, amazing!
Furniture. Adding an upholstered bench or stool ottoman helps to finish the space. If you have room for something like this, you can use it to get ready and it also looks pretty!
Rugs. This SHOULD only be used if you have wooden/tile flooring in the closet. You shouldn’t put a rug on top of carpet. Looks tacky. If you have an option for it, then a rug would look great! Blues, pinks and greens are fun uplifting colors.
Organization. Every finished closet I’ve seen has storage bins. Whether you choose baskets or acrylic bins, you need somewhere to store your belongings. Matching bins always makes the closet look elevated and put together. So many options are available nowadays! Get to organizing!
Mirrors. Lastly, this is the most important accessory for a closet! You must see what you look like once you’re ready! If you have the space for a floor mirror, perfect! If not, an elongated mirror hanging on a wall would work also. I just love floor mirrors!

I am an expert in Interior Design, so if you have a closet space that needs a good revamping, let me know! We can work together with a local closet company to get you the correct layout. This is the year of elevation, updating, color, and fun!

Interior Architect and Design: Answering Your Questions

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 15:16:26 GMT

Consultations, Presentations, and more

In the last few months, we have given 2 Interior Design presentations focusing on what we can do for you and your home. They have been informational sessions with incentives. Working with an Interior Designer is a luxury, and we want to make it as smooth as possible for you. Giving a presentation to a community is a great way to reach a large number of people and give out a ton of useful information at once. We have a great time doing them and make them fun for you! Here are some frequently asked questions and what you need to know.

What is a Wall Covering and where do you use it?

Wall Coverings are anything you put on a wall. These include: wallpaper, fabric, grasscloth, silk paper, and wood accents, like wainscoting and board & batten. I love using a wall covering in powder rooms. It gives a smaller space a unique style. They also look great in dining rooms, home offices, and libraries/flex spaces.

2. Where do I order my products from, and can anyone get them?

I use to-the-trade accounts for most of my design. This means that you must be an Interior Designer to order from these companies. That way not just anyone can go off the street and take my designs. You can get similar items, but this is why one would use an Interior Designer, so I can make your home unique, special, and different. I have a few companies that I order custom items from for the specific sizing to your home. So no, not just anyone can order these designer items. You also get my pricing and expert eye. Win-Win!

3. What does a Consultation Include?

I do charge a fee for my Consultations. This is surprising to some and regular practice to most. This is my time that I come to help you, just like any other person you would hire to come work on your home. This fee DOES include the consultation in your home, deciding what kind of project you want done, and what it entails. Also included is my design time when I sit down to focus on your project and make up a project scope. I also offer just color consultations. This would include a paint palette and where/how to use it.

4. What else does the Presentation entail?

I like to go over everything from start to finish. From when you decide to hire me to the end of the process. This is not usually a quick process either, it can take anywhere from 3-6 months depending on the size of the project. I want you to be prepared. What’s your budget? What exactly do you want to do? How can I help you? I am not everyone’s style of designer, and that’s completely fine! I had one question about styling Antiques. That is not my specialty, but I can help you find the right designer for you to fit your style. I want you to get the expertise and style you would want for your own home.

I hope this helps you understand what an Interior Architect & Designer can do for you, and specifically, what I can do for you. This is just an example of the information we put out there. If you have any questions at all, watch our videos, send me an email, or follow us on socials!

@zacharylukedesigns

zacharylukedesigns@gmail.com

Maximize your Homes Potential

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 14:19:45 GMT

Go from white and neutral to bold and beautiful

When it comes to maximizing your home’s potential, that isn’t just your storage space, but also what can you do with your space to make it great. Whether you’re in a tiny apartment, condo, townhome, single family home, and beyond, there is always MORE you can do to get the best quality out of your space. If you already have a maximalist design style, this blog isn’t for you. Haha! I am not a maximalist designer, which is defined as abundance and excess. You’ve heard the term ‘More is More’ which contradicts a minimalist approach, less is more. This is about maximizing the potential or your SPACE and design.

Starting off with neutral rooms. The kitchen is white. The cabinets are white. The walls are white. The bathroom and closets are white. This is pretty much expected in new builds and new complexes. You know that typical builder grade white and grey. Honestly it is fresh, but basic, nothing wrong with that! My advice coming in with a designer’s eye is forever asking, what can we do to spruce up this space? There are larger projects like replacing the counter tops with a quartzite, quartz, or granite. Replacing the basic backsplash and tiling a walk-in shower with larger more unique tiles. Yes, yes subway tiles are fine, but at least make them a bit larger and with some kind of texture! There are so many ways to use eye-catching, unique designs to bring more personality into your home.

Some other ways to maximize your space is the use of color. I have been reiterating Pops of Color coming back into design finally! Even though the beige neutral style is still here and probably will always be, that doesn’t mean you can’t use color! A closet and a powder room are great places for wall coverings. A funky wallpaper never hurt anyone! I love to add color to bathrooms and offices. Kitchen cabinets and islands are an easy way to add color, if you can do it yourself, great! If not, a designer is here with an expert eye. Other notable areas to mention, hardwood flooring and rugs instead of all over grey carpet or basic gray vinyl plank flooring. Always remember to add in pillows and decor, obviously.

One feature we see neglected is windows. The windows have plain and basic faux wood blinds and that’s it?! Or nothing at all! What do you mean that’s it?! There is so much more-let’s say it together-POTENTIAL. The more expensive, but longevity route is plantation shutters or roman shades, this way you don’t need drapes. If the wooden blinds are here to stay, that’s where drapes or an upholstered valance come in. Adding a sleek rod and patterned drapes will make your space look finished and maximized.

Lastly, FLEX SPACES. The best thing about this is you can do whatever you want! Office, guest room, media room, seating area, kids’ playroom, there are so many options. An area you can have fun and functional is always great to have in your home. A bonus room is a bonus! Utilize this area wisely. Add in a wardrobe and shelving for storage space, a Murphy bed or pull out sofa for guests, and if you have the space, use the closet as a powder room and BAM a fully functioning extra room! Maximize the potential of all of your spaces and watch out for our videos explaining all of the How-To’s.

@ZacharyLukeDesigns on all platforms.

Colors of the Year 2025

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 14:18:55 GMT

Mocha, Cinnamon, Ruby, Green and more!

The main company I use in my business for paint is, Benjamin Moore. I have used them for years and love all their colors, stains, and products. From the whitest white to blackest black, they carry over 3000 colors for all your color needs! Beyond Benjamin Moore, we will touch on other company’s colors of the year. I love POPS of colors in design. Grays and Blues are still my go-to standards, but adding in a pop of color can make your space fun!

Benjamin Moore Color of the Year is: Cinnamon Slate

They describe this as a mix of heather plum and velvety brown. It is a lovely purple-y hue that would look great in a kitchen, foyer, or primary bedroom.

Along with the Color of the Year, they also coordinate a color palette with that. These are colors that will complement each other and can be used together in rooms, like accents, doors, trim, etc. When I accent color, I do not mean an accent wall, just to clarify.

These colors include: Rosepine-green/sage, Paris Rain-mint/light green, Sea Salt-neutral grey/white, Glacier White-white hue, Stained Glass-Teal/green, Leather Saddle Brown-burgundy/brown, Chowning’s Tan-Tan/camel, Tissue Pink-Blush pink, & Ashwood Moss-mossy green.

Moving on to the other Colors of the Year. Here are my other favorites.

Pantone- Mocha Moose

A warm rich brown that would be perfect for a big open family room, or in a walk-in closet.

HGTV Home for Sherwin Williams- Quietude

A neutral green with gray and blue undertones. This would look great on kitchen cabinets or a comfortable sunroom!

Behr- Rumors

This is a deep ruby red with a bold warmth and would look wonderful in a moody library, home office, or a dining room.

If you are looking to update paint in any of your spaces, all these colors would look great. Again, I work with Benjamin Moore, and they have plenty to choose from. I do color consultations often and work those colors into a full design. Get your 2025 started off right, and let’s get to work!

Hosting: 5 Ways to get your home ready

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 16:51:57 GMT

Hosting another party?

You don’t have to be stressed this time! Here are ways to ensure your home is ready for hosting. This goes beyond food and drink, although those would be my top item listed! You want your home to be comfortable for guests, so when they come over, they feel at home. Since the Holidays are over, whether you hosted them or not, there are some fun events on the calendar. Super Bowl is coming up! Also, what about having a girly Gal-entines night? Do you celebrate the Lunar New Year? Ramadan and St. Patrick’s Day will be here before you know it! So here we go…

FOOD and DRINK- First and foremost, this should be at the top of your list. What kind of food and drinks you choose can set the tone of the party. Is it casual or fancy? Business or pleasure? People tend to congregate around the food and the bar. Set up the bar/bar cart with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks depending on the party. If it’s a kid party, then different kid-friendly drinks are available. A water station for a large party is a MUST! Food is such a comfort and when people feel comfortable, they have a better time! Pro Tip: Don’t forget to offer or ask specifically about dietary restrictions. People close to me have some, and there have been plenty of parties they can’t eat much of anything and it’s always a bummer.
THEME. You know the event you’re hosting, so pick a theme to go with that event. If you know ahead of time, let your guests know so they can prepare for that theme. It’s so much more fun to have guests participate and come dressed for a garden party instead of showing up in jeans. Obviously if you’re hosting a casual party, dress won’t matter. IE: Football Party = jerseys and buffalo dip. Haha!
DECOR. Going along with the theme, decorations for your event are a must! A beautiful table scape is sure to have your guests impressed. I love a good table setting and center piece for a sit-down type meal event. A food table set with flowers and charcuterie, or fun banners and balloons. Whichever kind of party you’re throwing, decorations make it more enjoyable and pretty.
COMFORT. As I mentioned above, you want your guests to feel comfortable. If you don’t normally let guests wear shoes in your home, make sure that is known beforehand. Not everyone wears socks or is comfortable going around barefoot. Also, please make sure your home is tidy, and bathrooms are clean. When you go somewhere that is either overheated because the oven has been going all day, or freezing with the AC on in the winter, your guests will be uncomfortable. Comfortability will ensure a good party!
HOSTING GIFT. Now this one is optional, but if you are attending an event or party at someone else’s home, it is always appreciated to bring the host a small gift. Whether that’s a bottle of wine (if they drink) or a little candle, your host will feel special that you thought of them. My mom always taught me not to go somewhere empty handed!

Being a designer, my skills go beyond interior design, this is all part of the bigger picture. Having a put together home will help you feel complete and that’s what I’m here for! Hope you all had a great Holiday Season and a Happy New Year!

3 Ways to Elevate your home

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 13:54:19 GMT

Finishing Spaces, Lamps and accessories, Filling blank walls

Elevating your home is taking it up a notch. Going that extra step in styling a space. Using unique decorations or accessories, and not a basic item, to improve the design. This does not mean you have to spend a lot of money; a little bit can go a long way. You can even achieve this by shopping at Target Home Goods, or even Amazon. These elevated designs can be achieved anywhere if you’re looking for the right items. I have a few examples of what I’m talking about.

Starting off, Finishing Spaces . I have talked about this before and you all know my love for pillows, lamps and rugs. Specifically for this item and finishing the space, is a rug. There are hundreds of options available, in any size, color, and material. I love working with polypropylene rugs. They are easy to clean and affordable. I am sick of seeing Primary Bedrooms with the bed on a wooden floor without a rug. If you have carpet, there is no need for a rug. Your bedroom will not look complete without this item. Living room, dining room and family rooms also look complete with a rug. If your sofa is on a hard floor surface and there is no rug, it will look cold and unfinished. Choose a neutral option if you want a clean look. You will need it large enough to fill the space and dimensional with the bed and bedroom size. Easy peasy!

Next, Lamps . I mentioned above and many, many times before how much I love lamps! They really do bring an elevated look to a space. From entryway lamps on a buffet, to bedside lamps in your primary suite. Whether they are a matching set, or a few unique different lamps around your entire main floor space. We see different lamps everywhere we go and my tip to you is to find something you love! Enough with the tall skinny brass lamps with the tiny shade. Find one with a wider colored base, and a fresh white shade. This will make it go from plain to designer. You will rarely see me choosing a lamp that is boring. Neutrals are always okay, but I can help you choose a better option. Watch my styling videos if you need more inspiration!

And Lastly, BLANK WALLS . Why are we leaving such large open walls with nothing on them?! Whether it is art or mirrors, don’t leave your space unfinished, blank, and boring. These large open spaces in entryways, bedrooms, or hallways are best finished with a large floor mirror. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy or expensive, but who wouldn’t want a floor mirror to check the whole outfit?! A primary bedroom wall is perfect for a floor mirror. I love a simple silver frame, and tall enough to see your whole body. This is what brings a space from basic to elevated.

These are only a few tips on ways to elevate your space and home. Whether you have a business lobby to design or your home needs a few more pieces, this advice can be used in any room or space. As always, contact us today with any help you need!

Interior Styles

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 14:15:06 GMT

A few we are loving and a few we are over...

First and foremost, many styles are here to stay and come back season after season and year after year. Some are classic, and some are just a trend. Obviously, you all know how I feel about Boucle, although we did see a good amount of it in showrooms at High Point Market, it wasn’t literally everywhere like it was a few seasons ago! FINALLY! As a Modern Transitional designer, there are plenty of blues, greens, creams, silver, all my favorites and I love to see new artwork and decor in this color way.

One style I am so excited to see again is COLOR! Last spring, we did a funny video about how every other room was monochromatic. AH! So much neutral! I do like neutrals, but I cannot do a whole space in cream, white, and beige. This fall I was seeing color everywhere! There are companies that focus on only neutrals, that’s not a company for me. I work with the companies that I love, and I was seeing color in many of their showrooms. It is so fun to see Pops of Color! Bright orange, purple, hot pink, shades of green and yellows. Putting a pop of color on your walls, like wallpaper, is a great use of color. Pillows and artwork are where you add in your fun designs. We made a little funny video showcasing the colors that we saw throughout the showrooms. Check it out on Instagram and TikTok!

One design finish I’m kind of over, but disclaimer, I still like it, but it’s on everything and everywhere, is Brass. It is on table legs, every other lamp or light fixture. I was seeing it on mirrors, accessories, and lamps. I still love silver; it is classic and will never go out of style. Many kitchen appliances are stainless steel, that go well with brushed nickel hardware on your cabinets and drawers or with your light fixture and ties it all together nicely. I like doing my design spaces with pieces to last, not something that’s going to be a trend. So, if you’re still into that style of design, there’s nothing wrong with that, but you never have to follow the trends when you’re working with me! Like I said though, I don’t mind brass and using it in some spaces, especially if that’s what my client prefers.

Another item I am seeing are those uncomfortable wool decorative pillows. No one is using a hard scratchy pillow, and most of them come in neutral bland colors. We saw some beautiful and comfortable pillows at many showrooms, and many customizable colors and patterns. There are better options out there! And lastly, one item I absolutely love to put in homes is rugs! There are tons of beautiful and soft rug options, so many are affordable. Every size and style are out there and I seriously look through hundreds to find the right one for you! Seeing new designs is always fun and I’m always getting ideas for your space!

High Point Market-Fall Edition

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 14:49:49 GMT

High Point Market in North Carolina is the largest home furnishings trade show in the world!

Markets are finished for the year of 2024. We have gotten a ton of great content this year!

This market was similar to our previous one in the spring, but also different in many ways. What we focus mostly on is social media content. We get to enjoy the showrooms and also do content about everything we love! So, we get to enjoy what we do, film, educate, learn, and teach you all about what we see.

We visit my favorite companies, the ones I use the most. We also find new companies along the way. That can be from word of mouth and hearing good things from other people. This business is really special. It’s huge. So many people from all over the world come to Market. It is special because even though the industry is so vast and there are lots of connections to make. I love to run into people I only see at Market. I love to run into other designers and vendors. It is so fun to maintain these relationships over all the years I have been in the industry. Each year I meet more people, make more connections, grow my business, and my network. It truly is exciting each time, even if we visit many of the same places, each time is new.

My brand manager, Chelsea, has come along to the past 2 Markets and we have a blast together! It helps that we are siblings and pretty much the same person. We like to eat, listen to good music, have a little rest, continue to make more content, and have more fun together-always! Any time you see a video, it is Chelsea behind the camera. She comes up with a lot of the ideas for videos and we brainstorm together to make the magic happen. We hope you are all enjoying the videos. We like to throw in something funny every few videos because that’s what keeps it interesting! We also offer MANY informative videos and help for those who do not know how or where to start in their homes or business with design.

This time around we made over 10 videos. We walked over 30,000 steps. We had almost 3 full days of making content. Tons of information was accrued. We saw hundreds of beautiful interiors, from pillows and decor, to art, mirrors, furniture, tables, lamps and everything! So many options for every person and home. Our hope is that you can learn from and enjoy the videos. As always, if you’re in the market(ha-ha) for help with your home, I’m only a phone call away. Check out all our blogs and videos for more information. And get ready for LOTS of High Point Market videos coming at ya soon!

Move-In Musts

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 15:17:28 GMT

5 Items for your Move-In Checklist

From small list items like replacing lightbulbs to larger items like counter tops and flooring, each item has its priority. We have created a list of FIVE of our most important to-dos when moving into a new home. Most of this checklist can be executed in a rental as well but do with this information what you will. Even when renovating or updating, this list still applies. Let us know if there is anything you would add to this list as well!

First and foremost, do a deep clean from floor to ceiling. Check your lightbulbs and replace as needed. Also, replace the air vent filters and check batteries in your smoke alarms.
Before moving in all your items, paint the rooms to give them a fresh, updated look.
Again, replacing window treatments such as installing blinds, shutters, or drapes. You’ll want privacy!
Bathroom fixtures, plumbing, lighting, and hardware. Replace the old used ones and match your knobs.
Lastly, finishing off the space with decor like rugs, lamps, art, and pillows.

We have had a few questions about ‘why’. Why change the lightbulbs? The short answer is energy efficiency. LED lightbulbs use up to 90% less than incandescent bulbs.

Battery replacement in alarms is for your safety and replacing air filters. This is another energy efficient easy replacement for decreased energy bills. Keeping debris out of your home and temperature control. Replace roughly every 1-3 months.

Window treatments are at the top of the list for me personally. If you cannot install shutters or custom drapes, then quality blinds are a must. Match them in every room as well!

Mixing metal finishes does not always work, especially with bathroom and kitchen fixtures. Knobs are a quick fix to match with the plumbing hardware. Replacing them all to match is a must for me!

I would say that decor comes last. Obviously, you need furnishings, but items like art, mirrors, and accessories will come eventually, so make sure your list is ready to go.

Checking these items off your list will help your move-in go smoothly. Always make a list and have a plan. Also, remember that an interior designer is always here to help, like me!

Updating your New Home

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 16:12:34 GMT

To-Do's in your New Home

Updating a New Home

If you’re buying a home that needs a little love, then we have put together a list of items that you should check off. That is, if the budget allows. These items will help to turn your house into a home. Of course, you need essentials like furniture and bedding, but beyond the necessities, your home could be missing some of these. Starting off, on the exterior, painting brick if it is an outdated color to white or grey, painting or replacing the siding, adding shutters that match, and updating the front door color. Aesthetically this can make your home look brand new!

Next is updating windows with a sort of window treatment such as blinds, drapery, roman shades, or plantation shutters.

In the kitchen, the backsplash is a quick and pretty price conscious update that can be a DIY project. Changing out the plumbing fixtures to match the hardware on the cabinets is also pleasing to the eye. Also, sanding and painting the cabinets can be DIY. If your budget allows, then changing the countertop to a quartz or quartzite would be beneficial. I can lend my expertise if you choose to work with a designer.

An easy laundry or mudroom refresh is adding wallpaper, painting the cabinets, and adding pretty hardware. This will give the small space a nice refresh and update that, let’s be honest, it probably desperately needs.

Next, Walk-in closets. These could use a fresh coat of paint on the shelves and ceiling, wallpaper on the walls, or a pretty paint color for a pop of color. Next, change out the overhead light fixture, especially if it’s a fluorescent to a pretty flush mount or chandelier.

Lastly, Refreshing the backyard seating areas. A fresh coat of paint or stain on the deck, furniture on the deck, or a seating area in the back around the fire pit. This way, you can entertain guests in your new home and enjoy your backyard.

Stay tuned for our Move In Checklist coming soon! And as always, check out our social media for videos and content.

Minimalist, Fabrics and High Point Market

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 13:32:35 GMT

Designer Perspective

Minimalist Design, Fabrics, and High Point Market

I wanted to sit down and ask Zachary some questions about a few design elements I have been noticing lately. We have touched on trends, but these are more specific to design and what his opinions are. Each designer has their own thoughts, but I wanted to ask firsthand on a few subjects, so here they are!

Minimalist approach: Is this a trend for now, or is it going to be a design approach that lasts long term?

As a designer who does Modern Transitional, I do not usually do minimalist, which is almost no decor, almost no art, nothing on the walls, but I do like minimalist over maximalist. The maximalist design is not for me, and it seems to be fading out, but I do prefer a clean looking design so minimalist is always in.

Overrated and Underrated Elements in Design: Which products do you think are either?

Overrated products are, Fabrics. Obviously, my most hated fabric is Boucle. Anyone who knows me, knows this! Luckily it is on its way out. Also, Leather. Too many leather matching furniture pieces in one room is overdone. That, or just too many leather pieces in general.

An Underrated product is good quality Upholstery and quality Bedding. Both are important to have in your home and if you choose wisely, then they will last you for years and years.

Lastly, what are you hoping to see and not to see at this Fall upcoming High Point Furniture Market?

Last spring we did videos on seeing way TOO MUCH Rattan, Beige, and Monochromatic spaces everywhere in every Hpmkt building. This Fall I am hoping to see less of that and more bright, vibrant pops of color in decor, art, and fabrics.

Message us with any questions you have and keep following along on socials!

Content Creating

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 17:15:01 GMT

A day in the life: Creating Content for Social Media and Business

Scheduling content between my brand manager and I is usually a task. Between both of our schedules it can be tough, at times we cannot seem to get a day to be together, but when we do, we do it big. First and foremost, we talk beforehand about what kind of content we want to film, where we want to film, and then schedule with a place. We have the best time filming the content together and we hope you can see that in our videos.

Starting off, when we meet up, we have a little chit chat. Not only is my brand manager my partner in business, but as most of you know, we’re siblings! A lot of chatting, laughing, and catching up always happens. We both bring up ideas for videos. I usually make a list and go from there which includes TikTok’s, promo videos, Tip Tuesdays, Frustrating Fridays, etc.! We have a fun time filming together and mostly trying to be fun and funny, yet also giving you the information and content we think is important.

Continuing with content creating, next is executing the video. As you can imagine, there are quite a bit of bloopers, restarts, and rethinking the wording. We have to get in the right setting and mood for the video to be efficient. Sometimes we have to reshoot over and over, either the wording doesn’t sound right, or we are laughing too hard. Especially when we film in public, how silly do we look at times in front of other people?! Just yesterday while filming in a public store, we had to stop multiple times for actual customers. They are more important to the store we are filing in, so we have to move or wait as needed. I cannot imagine what some of the older generation are thinking what we are up to and who we are! We should just hand out business cards to everyone who walks by giving us a funny look. At this point it doesn’t bother us though, we do our thing, and we’ve never had any issues. At least they can tell we’re having a good time!

The store kind of filming is different than when we film in an empty home. In a space like this, it’s just us and our own energy to feed from, sometimes that can be easier and sometimes it can make it more challenging. We are like, “Ok time to get in the groove!” We like to knock out 5-7 videos each time we film to batch content. Normally we don’t meet up every week, Zachary has projects and actual designing and business to do, and Chelsea has a family, so when we do get together, we must make the magic happen!

I recently did a poll on Instagram to see what kind of content people are looking for. There were mixed reviews, but mostly polled on doing the same thing we have been doing. Mostly funny videos, tips, and tricks. Some organic content, which is something we have been discussing more and how to execute that. Please let us know what else you would like to see. Whether it is informational, tutorial, or just behind the scenes. We have a great time doing this for you and for the design business.

Lastly, at the end of a content day we discuss when videos will be scheduled. The videos must be edited and finished over the next few days, and then we are onto the next project. Keep following along!

What to expect...Vacation Rentals

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 16:24:51 GMT

Happy Vacationing-Here's what you should know

Many of you have likely used websites like Airbnb and VRBO for vacation rentals. Most of the time we travel in groups, so we look for the right rental for us. This may be for a summer family vacation, a guy’s trip to the city, a girl’s trip to the beach, and anywhere in between. Recently I have noticed there are many items or amenities missing from rentals, which is very frustrating in your “home away from home”. We stay at hotels for convenience, right? The pool, the free/access to the breakfast buffet, and the price is usually cheaper for a single family or small group. With a rental, you have your own private space, and it SHOULD be less expensive because you are buying and making all your own food, etc. This doesn’t really seem to be the case anymore, especially if you’re anywhere near an ocean or water. Even in a small town in Michigan where I am from the prices are high.

When you are spending the extra money for the rental property, you want the amenities you’re paying for. I expect to go out to a nice pool, the pool should be crystal clear, and not to mention, clean. The outdoor furniture should be clean, not moldy, dingy, ripped, or rusty. The pool supplies, like floats and toys should also be fresh and not old and dirty. Why isn’t this standard when paying thousands of dollars? Also, for outdoors, I want a safe place to park my vehicle, such as, not in the road or will be damaged.

Moving indoors, at some properties this is standard and at others it is not: linens and towels. I have been to some that provide all linens. When you are flying in from out of state, you cannot possibly bring your own bath towels and bedding. The bedding that is provided should be fresh. Nothing that looks or smells old. I don’t care how much you have spent on a property, none of that is guaranteed. I have had to go to the local store and buy towels and linens because I was not aware of this. Doesn’t that just sound ridiculous?! There should be fans for each room, access to laundry, and enough bathrooms and showers for the size of the property.

Kitchens- I have come across many kitchens that are lacking in supplies needed for a week’s long stay. Cleaning supplies, like paper towels, hand towels and soap. Utensils and pans. Why are there always 10 different spatulas, but no scissors?! So often you end up spending more and more money on these little details, while trying to save money by renting a place for everyone. Sometimes staying in a hotel is just easier. You do not get that intimate time with the people you’re with if you’re all in separate hotel rooms, but sometimes you sacrifice that for convenience. A sense of community and togetherness is why rentals are so popular.

Check-in times are also so late now, hotels included. Half of your vacation day is over by the time you can check in at 4 pm. I’m not certain what they could do for this inconvenience, maybe earlier check outs, not sure, but it stinks traveling and having to wait that long to check in.

In large cities, there are companies that own properties and have every option to help your stay easier. I have seen companies that will decorate for your bachelorette and stock the fridge with drinks and food. It is an amazing, lucrative business that I likely wouldn’t have known about without social media. Anyways, all these items seem like standard practice for rentals, but no two are alike and no stay is going to be the same. My advice to you is to ask questions to the renter, find out exactly what they provide and what you will need to prepare for your trip there. Happy Vacationing!

Plants 101: Indoor and Outdoor Edition

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 19:27:44 GMT

Turn over a new leaf, what are the best indoor and outdoor plants?

I have a friend/client that has the biggest green thumb. I recently did some work at his home, and I wanted to give you all the 411 on house plants. His plants are big and gorgeous, so here are some examples of some of the ones that are the best.

Indoor:

Fiddle Leaf Fig-bush or tree

Dragon Plant

Monstera aka Swiss cheese plant

Corn Plant-not corn stalk

Snake Plant

Not that these plants are necessarily EASY to take care of because they require sunlight and weekly watering, so not terribly hard to keep alive, but you do need to be patient.

Then, for outdoor plants, here in NC they stay outside for most of the year but must come inside for the colder months. They will freeze and die, even in the Carolinas. The outside sun can also be too hot in the summer, so a nice, shaded area that gets some sunlight helps. My client has a covered back patio, so it’s perfect for his plants! Here are some examples of lovely outdoor plants.

Outdoor:

Ferns

Palms

Japanese Maple

Pink Dragon Plant

Split Leaf Philodendron

Lastly, the EASIEST and most low-maintenance plant there is, is the Golden Pothos. This is an Indoor plant. You virtually cannot kill this plant. It needs little to no sunlight, so you can basically water it whenever. It will continue to grow and vine forever. You can cut a small section and root from a larger plant to replant it, and it will grow well for you. So easy and so pretty! I’m not an expert on plants and I am always learning, but any of these plants are good to start with. Let me know if you were inspired to start your plant journey! I beleaf in you ;)

3 Design Tips

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 15:44:36 GMT

Accessories, Scale and Window Coverings

I love doing Tip Tuesdays on my social media, they are little tidbits of information from a designer to the everyday person who needs help around their home or business. Many of my tips are fun and informational, and I hear from people all over that say “Hey! I have never thought of that!” or “I would have never known that’s a thing.” This is why I do my videos and this blog, to help you! While I would love to be your designer, I know there are plenty of people who decorate and design their own home, so here are my 3 Tips!

#. ACCESSORIES. I am not an Interior Decorator, but I do design and decorate as needed. I have plenty of clients who need a full room makeover, and that includes accessories. Accessories can include vases, décor, plants, or anything removable that comes in a rather small form. I also, at times, add to their existing décor. This is where I will work with whatever the client has and add in some items. I recently did a home office where they owned the desk and desk chair already, so I added in a decorative server to be used as storage, a loveseat sleeper, and had their mission style chair reupholstered to match the new loveseat sleeper. I decorated the server with a few accessories and I added an end table with a cute lamp.

#2. SCALE. Accessories scale with the surrounding furnishings is very important for balance in your space. If you have a small table, one décor item will work. A small plant or vase for example, would work great. When there is a larger end table, I like to add a lamp, accessory and maybe some coasters or really two shorter accessories, so there are 3 items. With a larger buffet, I add larger scale accessories. A large vase, a large decorative object, a larger plant and that is either in 3’s or 5’s depending on the size. If I do add 5 accessories, then 2 of those accessories will be smaller so there is good aesthetic balance and symmetry. This way the piece has dimension and scale together. It looks balanced and finished!

#3. WINDOW COVERINGS. I have discussed drapes and my love for drapes many times, Haha, but if you are not doing drapes, then there are 2 other good options outside of your standard blinds. Roman Shades and Plantation Shutters. There are tons of different options for roman shades, just like everything else out there. There are fabric-type shades that will never go out of style, bamboo- real or real inspired, and even power motor shades. Roman Shades are an energy-efficient option because they retain heat, and they look so beautiful! Plantation Shutters are also a lovely option. I work with a company that makes amazing shutters, they are fit specifically to your windows, different colors, and different blind sizes. These are so easy to open and close, and not to mention, look so fresh in a home. Shutters will last years and years and add value to your home. Roman Shades and Plantation Shutters vary because of size and material, so choose whichever one you think would work best for you!

These design tips will elevate the spaces in your home or business. These are good tips to have in your back pocket when thinking about or discussing décor. As always, I'm here to help. I do virtual consultations as well, so contact me today!

Summer Spruce Up

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 13:43:37 GMT

Are you looking to spruce up your home this summer? We're here to help

Happy Summer! It’s officially here and the heat waves are HOT! June here in North Carolina feels like the humid tropics. I’m not complaining, being from Michigan, I love the heat, the sun, boating, and going to the pool. These are some of my favorite outdoor activities. While it is only June, there is still time to start your summer project and have it finished by the beginning of Fall.

Design projects can take anywhere from 3-4 months depending on the wants, needs, and how big the project. If you want to do a little sprucing up, then that wouldn’t take as long. If you want to completely redo rooms with construction, paint, and flooring, then that will take longer. My suggestion would be to start thinking and planning that now, so you don’t have to worry about that in the Fall. Do you have out-of-town guests or family coming to stay with you this year? If so, then now would be a good time to get this done and not wait until September. My team and I would love to help you with your project. Summer is a steady time when many people travel or have kids home for the summer, but before you know it, we will already be into the Fall.

I like to plan out these projects with enough time to make sure that your home is perfect. Let’s plan, get your project started, and have it finished up in a few months!

Check out my other projects here on my website and on my social media accounts. Contact me today to schedule a consultation. I would love to make your home right for you this upcoming Fall. Hope you all have a fun Summer because I know I am!

3 Ways to Make your Home Better

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 18:33:58 GMT

Summer 2024 Improvements

There are hundreds of ways to improve your home, but you cannot possibly do it all at once. You can go room by room and point out what needs updating. Kitchens, family rooms, and primary bedrooms are the large-scale spaces that usually need more work. Those spaces do make the biggest impact in your home. I have 3 ways that I believe will make your home not only look better but feel better. While not all of them are “easy” fixes, they are attainable.

First and foremost, the Kitchen Backsplash. This can make a huge difference in the look and feel of your kitchen. Whether it is the color or style that needs to be changed, the backsplash catches everyone’s eye. Many people say they can’t just change their backsplash when the style changes or take on a large project, and that’s obviously correct! If you are really willing to make a change, then listen up! While small white 3x6 subway tile will always be classic, it is not what I’m choosing for my clients to update their homes. Let's broaden our style and go for something that is also timeless and will last years for years to come. You can get porcelain, ceramic, and stone tile in many variations and colors. This will help your kitchen look updated and fresh!

Next, and we’ve talked about this before, are Lighting and Fans. Light fixtures and fans make a huge difference in your home. Do you have a modern home with traditional lighting? Do you have a farmhouse with mid-century lighting? I see this so often where the light fixtures, lamps and hardware do not go with the style, design, or even match. One of my biggest pet peeves is mismatched hardware. Gold with silver and brass with stainless steel?! It doesn’t make any sense! I cannot stress this enough, especially with new builds. If you have any say over your new build design, then PLEASE make sure you are matching or coordinating your metal finishes! I absolutely love mixed textures, but not mismatched hardware finishes.

And lastly, to make your home look and feel better, Showers. At the top of my list for showers is the open shower concept and I despise it! Of course, there will be exceptions to this where the clients need it for personal problems, but that’s very rare. Maybe the shower still steams up enough in the bathroom, but I’m telling you that every open shower I have used was COLD. I understand the concept, it is a European style, but we are not European, and it doesn’t fit in with our lifestyle here. I have never liked the open concept shower and I’m not sure I ever will. What happened to using shower doors to feel the warmth and safety of keeping them closed, and to keep the steam in?! When buying or building a new home, this is an important item to keep in your mind when designing your bathrooms.

Again, as always, these are my opinions and suggestions as a designer for my clients. If you’re happy with your home the way it is, then that’s great for you. I get many questions weekly on my opinion or “what would you do with this or that?” So, here are my three tips and I hope you all have a wonderful week! Contact me today for a consultation to improve and update your home!

HPMKT Day 2: IHFC

Wed, 15 May 2024 13:25:19 GMT

Art, Lighting, Decor and More

Back in action for day 2 and we started off at the IHFC building. This is a huge 12 story building with hundreds of vendors and showrooms. It is hard to describe in words how massive and elaborate the floors are without showing you, which is why we make so many videos! It is 3.5million square feet with every style and category of design you can think of! We love walking through interhall, on the first floor, to start. This is full of open vendors. We navigate by zig zagging down the hallways to gather inspiration along the way. After interhall, we ventured through other areas to a few other favorite companies.

Our first stop was Regina Andrew Design. I have had an account with them for many years and love seeing all their new introductions. They specialize in Lighting and Decor. I found some beautiful new styles of overhead lighting for my type of space and some lovely lamps! After that we headed up to Paragon Art, which is where I order almost all my art from for clients and projects. They have every style and size of art that pleases most audiences. We also found a new art and accessories company that was lovely, called Vertuu, a west coast-based company.

Next, we visited Howard Elliot Collection. One of my favorite companies! They specialize in accent furniture, accessories, mirrors and art as well. I enjoy visiting my reps and catching up. And of course, I need to stop in for my Pepper Infused Bloody Mary.

The last of my favorite companies at IHFC was Forty West. I order many kitchen tables, chairs, side chairs, and all your wood furniture wants from here. They also specialize in lighting. It is always fun to see all my favorite company’s new designs and products for the season! It was so funny also because I can’t tell you how many people came up to me and said they follow me on my socials, and what big fans they were. That was a first for Hpmkt, so it was wonderful meeting so many new people. I appreciate everyone following along while we build this brand!

After leaving IHFC, we ventured to Vanguard Furniture. It was amazing. Stunning. Beautiful. We were greeted with such kindness and hospitality. We had a wonderful tour of the 4 floors and all their new intros. It is breathtaking. Check out the brand if you don’t know who they are. We also posted a reel on Instagram from the showroom. They certainly know what they are doing and I’m so glad we decided to go there on Day 2! The detail that goes into each collection and area is a site to be seen.

We finished the day at the Hooker Furnishings watch party for the Goo Good Dolls concert. We had drinks and food, and even snapped some good pictures. Successful Day 2 all around.

High Point Furniture Market Fun: Day 1

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 13:28:43 GMT

How much Beige and Monochrome do you think we saw?

The limit does not exist.

High Point Furniture Market Fun Day 1

We had the most fun at High Point Market this Spring! As you all know, my sister is my brand manager, and she was able to come along for the market fun again this season! We filmed hours of content, and she’s the one behind the lens. Sometimes I make her get in a few videos with me. Haha! We were on our feet and walked over 12,000 steps each day. We laughed, made fun videos, used our creative minds, and silly banter to make a bunch of funny, but informative content. Keep following along on all my socials (@zacharylukedesigns) to get the inside scoop of all the ins and outs from our 3 days at Hpmkt. To start off, I will go through all of what we did on day 1. If you know me at all, you know I am organized. I have a plan and what I like to do each day. So, here we go!

Starting off, we immediately arrived into town around 10:30 am on Saturday and went straight to Showplace. Showplace is one of two main buildings with multiple showrooms at High Point Market. We stopped for an iced coffee first, of course. We walked the halls of showplace first to check out all the shops and see what was new. I have my staples that I always like to see and film content videos in, but it is nice to walk around and check out some other showrooms. Sometimes I even find 1 or 2 new companies I would order from.

Some fun videos we filmed are one of my biggest frustrations as a transitional designer and that’s BEIGE and MONOCHROMATIC. It is EVERYWHERE! It looks pretty, but honestly every other showroom was one shade, neutral. No color, no dimension, no pop of something different! Ugh. Another video we have recently loved making is rapid fire Yes’ and No’s. This is where we go around and just say yes or no to different items we would like or use. We saw a ton of Rattan as well.

Onto the big showrooms at Showplace: Hooker Furnishings and Surya

I do a lot of business with both companies and just love what they have to offer. Hooker Furnishings is the entire 3rd floor of Showplace and has many sister companies within their brand. There is seriously something for everyone within the one company umbrella. Hooker has custom furniture, upholstery, case goods and more! We found a new company that we hadn’t been to before and that is, Pulaski, which is a sister company of the Hooker Furnishings brand. It was one of the last showrooms we visited and were giddy with excitement at the options, quality, and prices! I cannot wait to place an order with them for a future client. Beautiful kitchen, living room, and bedroom furniture. We filmed a lot of content there and fell in love! It is always so fun to find a new company and get this excited about it, especially at the end of a long day. It was a hidden gem for sure.

Onto Surya, we filmed a lot of rug and lamp content also! While that doesn’t sound like much fun, it is so fun to see all the new designs. Your space can look way more enhanced with a beautiful rug and a pair of stylish lamps! They are my passion, as you all know, I Love Lamp! But seriously, Surya is my go-to for these items. We filmed a few videos there of our favorites, so be on the lookout for that content. I always love their showroom and open bar :)

We finished up for the day around 5 pm. We then went and checked into our hotel, then quickly got changed and headed over to an Eastern Accents party. They had a lovely buffet and drinks, and lots of good conversation. You all know I love my Eastern Accents family and am excited for my collab launch with them soon! All in all, day 1 was a success! Stay tuned for more market content!

The Events Approaching

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 20:23:34 GMT

Exciting Events happening soon

Welcome to April! It is finally spring and there are many exciting events happening this month. I have had a BUSY past 3 months, and it is not slowing down anytime soon. I have had a few installations, some larger construction projects, and even a big project out of town. I was just in Alabama doing the final install for a client down there and it turned out amazing. There are 3 big things coming in the next month and into May, and as always, we are excited to bring you along for the fun.

Starting off with a bang, this weekend starts High Point Furniture Market Spring 2024!

I just love high point market so much. The new colors, art, trends, and designs for the year are all being shown off in the showrooms at market. I look forward to seeing all my design friends and the companies I work with the most. I love to see the top designers, sit on panels, and attend them. It’s fun to learn from everyone around me and keep up with the trending designs even though, as you know, I am not a trendy designer. Not to mention all the fun parties, yummy food, and drinks everywhere! My sister/brand manager is coming along this time, she hasn’t been with me since fall 2019 so we are looking forward to that! She will be taking a ton of behind the scenes and video content for us, be sure to keep an eye out for that soon!

Some of my favorite companies and showrooms I look forward to seeing are:

Bernhardt Furniture – Upholstery & Furniture

Hooker Furnishings & HF Custom – Upholstery & Furniture

Surya – Rugs, Pillows, & Home Décor

Regina Andrew Design – Lighting & Décor

Forty West Designs – Wooden/Rustic Furniture & Lighting

Eastern Accents – Bedding & Drapery

Howard Elliott Collection – Home Décor & Accessories

Next, I am SUPER excited to be traveling internationally again! This time a few friends and I are going to Barcelona, Spain and Lisbon, Portugal. I CANNOT WAIT to see all the amazing architecture and design elements in that region of Europe. I will be taking lots of pictures and will share some to my Instagram in the coming weeks. Maybe I’ll even give you a Tip Tuesday or two from over there. A very exciting April indeed!

And lastly, I have an exciting project collaboration with Eastern Accents that should be announced after High Point Market. I have been working on this with them for about a year now, so I’m thrilled that it’s finally happening! Keep following along as we take these fun adventures. All of this helps me be a better designer and more experienced to help you with your home or project!

Spring Colors

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 20:30:29 GMT

Spring Into Fresh Colors

Back in October, we talked about the colors of the year for each big name paint brand. I exclusively work with Benjamin Moore and their color of the year for 2024 is Blue Nova, which we still love! But I never went over the colors that they chose to coordinate with Blue Nova. I will also go over my 8 favorite colors for the spring or this upcoming year for a good refresh and where to use these colors as well.

Starting off, the 10 colors that go with Blue Nova:

White Dove-a lovely cream white

Pristine-a neutral beige with pink undertones

Topaz-a burnt orange-ish

Teacup Rose- a very light salmon-pink

Honeybee-a slightly darker yellow

Regent Green- a dark green-black

Antique Pewter-an olive-y taupe

Polar Sky-a light sky blue

And last but not least, Hazy Lilac-a mauve purple

All of these lovely colors would coordinate with Blue Nova and would look amazing in small or large spaces.

Now onto my favorite colors for the Spring or honestly anytime you’d want to use these colors for your space!

Starting off strong:

Faded Violet- a grey-purple

Perspective-a great overall neutral for your walls

Bubble Tea-a bright pink/orange as an accent, not accent wall though!

Sea Salt-a grey neutral with a hint of yellow

Crumb Cake-a yellow neutral, which would look great in a sun room

Sage Wisdom- a sage green that would look lovely in a bedroom

Skydive- aqua blue

And lastly, Flower Box-a blue purple with a hint of grey

All of these Benjamin Moore colors are lovely and would look amazing in any space from a powder room to your main living space. There are hundreds of colors and brands out there. I trust this company and love the variety of colors to chose from, so many wonderful options for a beautiful space. Happy Spring!

Interview with a Designer: Part 2

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 20:27:48 GMT

Getting to know your Designer

This time around I have asked Zachary some more personal opinion questions when it comes to HIS design. There is tons and tons of information out there, and every designer has their own opinions on every aspect when it comes to Interior Design. Therefore, I wanted to ask him a series of questions pertaining to his personal way of design and some quick info into who HE is as a designer. Interviewed by his Brand Manager/Assistant and Big Sister, Chelsea.

Question 1: What project are you most proud of?

Answer: Most recently, my Eucalyptus Court Project in Concord, North Carolina that I finished up last year. It was a full main level renovation, and I did the design as well. It turned out great!

Question 2: What are 3 must-haves when you design?

Answer: First off, refresh the paint color, always start there. If I can, next I love to suggest a wall covering in a smaller room area such as the powder room. And then lastly, drapery. Always, always drapery!

Question 3: How do you keep up with the ever-changing industry?

Answer: I attend High Point Furniture Market every spring and fall. This is where I discover the new design styles, furnishings, lightings etc. And then also this past year I attended Coverings, which is a complete tile and stone show. It’s great to see the new products launch each year.

Question 4: What is something that you will not do with design and what is something that you always do:

Answer: RED. I’m very adamant about not using red in my projects. Corals and pinks, or colors with a red undertone are acceptable but never flat-out red.

Something that I always do is Performance Fabrics on upholstery.

Question 5: What is your most important element of interior design?

Answer: Scale. Knowing the scale of furniture and lighting going into each space. Every designer should know this.

Question 6: What gets you excited about design?

Answer: When I get to do a project where there is construction and furnishings involved. Both elements lean into my education and experience, and it’s fun to do the whole process.

Question 7: What are your hobbies?

Answer: I love to game. Many people might not guess that, but I love to game on my Xbox. Next, hanging out with my Rottweiler Conrad. Also, socializing with my friends and going out on the weekends!

Question 8: Where is your favorite place that you have traveled to? Where is somewhere that you would like to travel to?

Answer: Definitely, Paris. I loved the French Architecture; I was there for a design conference, and it was an amazing experience.

Somewhere I would love to go is, Italy. I have a whole plan I’ve been trying to plan for years, and I want to do that sometime in the near future.

Thank you for coming along for this ride with me. I love my job and what I get to do. Every project and every client are different, and that’s what makes this industry so much fun. I’m thankful to my clients and those in the design industry for inspiring me and helping me along the way to make this my dream job!

Do this, Not that: Renters Edition

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 14:38:02 GMT

Tips to make your guest feel at home away from home

Do THIS not THAT: Renters Edition

Are you currently renting out a property or thinking about it? Well, we have some designer tips for you based on issues we have seen IRL. When you’re thinking of renting out your own home as a second property or an Air BNB, VRBO, etc., you want to make sure you’re giving your guests the best possible stay you can. While you may think that the home looks presentable to your standards, think about how other people will view it. Here are our tips on how to enhance the space to make it look fresh and elevated.

First and foremost, walking into the home what do you notice first? Most likely your walk up to the home and how presentable it is on the outside. If you can’t afford a new paint job or professional landscaping, you can have the home pressure washed. This will make certain your guests know you care about cleanliness. Add a few potted plants and flowers to the front, this will make it inviting and colorful! When you’re walking into the home another item you’re going to notice is the flooring. I typically look at the floors and baseboards to see how well the house has been cleaned. Please do not have old and dingy carpet. While we know this could be a more expensive upgrade, it’s totally worth it to ensure that your guests give you a good rating. The same goes for tile and wood. Having clean and fresh grout and a mopped sparkling flooring is super important.

Next, your Guest Rooms. The second place your guests are going to check is the room situation. This means adequate blinds and drapery for privacy. Clean and laundered bedding. We have been to properties with old looking, smelly bedding, and the last thing we want to do is sleep in that bed. I have gone as far as going out and buying new bedding for a week stay at the beach. I was not happy! You want your guests to feel at home, not like they are at an old motel. Some bedside tables and lamps, a nice chair in the corner and fresh towels as well! Your guest rooms should be inviting and comfortable. Please hide the television cords, organize the closets, and have an area for their luggage. These are a few ways to ensure that.

Lastly, Decor and Paint. There is nothing worse than entering a home when it is dark and dingy. Again, you want this space to be inviting. Clean, fresh, and comfortable. Painting a fun or bright color like white, light blue, mint green, or anything that’s happy will do the trick! We have also been to places that are CLUTTERED. Way too many decorations are overwhelming. There is no need for walls and shelves to be filled with junk. Have some cute decorations, like a big mirror in the entry that will open up the space. Some fake greenery for a fresh look. If you want to display some books for them to use, then that’s great too! Hide away the games in cabinets, leave them instructions on what they can use, and where they are located. I promise, just a few simple upgrades like this will make your place so much more inviting and more likely for guests to recommend it to others. Doing all of this will lead to them leaving a good review. There’s nothing you want less than a bad review. So, do THIS and NOT that for a happy rental home.

Trends

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 19:26:51 GMT

Overwhelming the everyday person with "new trends."

Are you having a hard time keeping up with all of the new “trends” for design each year? It can be overwhelming to see a new trend every time you open social media and influencers saying, “This is the new…xyz.” This can apply to home design, decor, colors, fashion, make up, shoes, etc.! That is out and this is in! Big bold colors are OUT and neutral is IN. BUT WAIT, now neutral is out, that’s boring and drab, and now a pop of bold color is back in. Don’t be boring and neutral, be fun and colorful! It. Is. Exhausting. This can also be confusing because your style is different from another. So, who is right? What style is correct? Who is wrong!?

The answer is no one, not completely anyways.

As a designer, I have my opinions on style, color, and design. I have gone to college and worked in this field for a long time. Style is forever evolving, however, that doesn’t mean your way is the wrong way. This just means our ways are different and typically if we are that different, we likely are not going to be a good team to work together. That’s okay. My style of design is transitional so that way when those colors come in and out of style, your space can still be “in.”

Everyone is saying “millennial gray” is out. And that’s their opinion. I still think a lovely neutral gray is very in. That doesn’t mean you have to have gray walls, gray rugs, gray sofas, and gray drapes LOL. That gray sofa would pair lovely with blues, yellow, or green pops of color! Your gray walls can have a sage green rug and black sofa with silver accents. There are many ways to spruce up your space if you are wanting to stay on trend without redesigning your entire home. As a male designer, my style is also more masculine, but I do love to bring a feminine touch to spaces. My most recent project had blue, gray, white, and neutral as the surrounding colors. I did an amazing crystal chandelier in the entryway that is bold and feminine to tie the space together perfectly. This is a look that is neutral but fresh and updated that will last for years to come. And if they want to stay on trend in the next season as design is forever evolving, then they are free to add new pillows, a piece or artwork, or a fun decorative vase to revamp their space.

We also do not need to get stuck in what is on trend or what’s in for this season. A traditional and classic look will always be in! Now, I can’t say the same for some early 2000’s looks or colors, but that is just MY opinion. Some of you are perfectly happy with your antiques and red walls, haha, and that is just fine. As I always say, you do you boo boo. I just will not be suggesting those design styles as your designer. If you’re asking for advice or hiring me for a project though, please don’t feel offended when I want to make your space more modern and fresher! That is my job after all ;)

Tips and Tricks Around the House

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 16:18:45 GMT

Mixing and Matching

When it comes to mixing textures and styles there is a correct way to do so. Many times, if there is a piece of furniture that a client has in their home, whether it is a vintage piece or a statement piece, we can make it work with modern design.

I love to mix textures. For example, velvet and linen to glass and metals. I had someone ask about a velvet magenta sofa on social media and how to work that into a design. I would make it the focal point of the room. Everything else around it I would make neutral. And to finish it off, a contemporary coffee table to pull together all the different elements of the space. This is just one example of a tip I gave a client about mixing and matching materials and styles.

I also recently did a Tip Tuesday about mixing materials in one space, a primary bathroom. This bathroom has textured glass, metal, tile, quartz, and wood. Check out the video on my social media channels. You’ll want to stay with a ‘like’ color scheme. The space will look put together and not broken up. A glass textured light fixture next to a brushed silver metal mirror will look like it goes together, but it doesn’t exactly “match” and we love coordinating pieces. Also, mixing different tiles from floor to wall to shower. You can have 2-3 different tiles in one space if they don’t clash. Different shades of the same color palette will be your best bet!

My style of design is Modern Transitional, which I have gone over before, but that doesn’t mean I won’t mix in pieces from different styles and aesthetics. I can mix modern farmhouse, vintage, mid-century modern, etc. One way I do so is taking a piece of furniture that is, for example, MCM and pairing it with a modern rug that is neutral with a pop of color. To break up the neutrals and play on that pop of color, I would put a standout color on the wall or in a wallcovering. If I’m doing blues, then I would use a teal green or aqua blue wall color. These colors flow nicely together. I would also try to get a similar color in the other furniture in the space so that it doesn’t look out of place. To finish off a space like this, I would add a bold, glam mirror and it would all look fabulous together! I love to keep the vintage feel with a twist of modern updates.

Typically, I like to stay in the modern transitional design scheme by mixing design elements so that they are not “on trend” and will last for years to come. Many times, it is fun to add in a statement piece that I can work and design around to make a space feel fresh. If you have an element like this in your home, then we are more than happy to help you finish off your space the best way possible.

Install Day

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 19:17:31 GMT

The In's and Out's of Install Day

As a designer, I have talked about many different aspects of the design process from the first phone call with a client to the installation day. I have not, however, talked about what that install day looks like! I just recently did a pretty large install for the home mentioned previously. It was built from the ground up and after the initial building, they brought me in for design! It is very exciting to see a project start from a blank canvas and come to fruition. The project is not all the way finished, but here is what our install day looks like!

First off, when ordering items, some are shipped to a warehouse/delivery company and some items are shipped to me as I can transport smaller items like decor, art, and mirrors. Whatever items I need to bring to the clients on install day, I load up and drive over! Our day usually starts in the morning. I like to be there early to assess the project. Typically, I prefer to do my installs alone, I have the client leave their home for the day. So, at the end they get to see the finished product! During this particular install, the client and other workers were there because it was their move in week. It was busier than I’m used to on an install day, but we made it happen. My sister/brand manager, Chelsea, and I arrived in the morning and unloaded all of the items I brought. She took some “before” video footage of the areas I was setting up and I made a plan of which items I would begin with. Be on the lookout for those fun videos being posted soon.

The first area I focused on were the drapes. I had two areas of custom drapes to hang, one in the main family room and one in the breakfast area. This is quite the process and usually takes up a big chunk of my time, but so worth it in the end. Chelsea helps me unbox all the hardware that comes with it and count how many pieces we need for each drapery panel. I measure and measure again! I cut down the rods on site and hang them. She also helps me unbox the drapes, lay them out, and holds them while I install! It is most certainly teamwork. When I don’t have her to help, I do this all myself, and that takes even longer. It is part of the individualized care you get when hiring a designer. After hanging the drapes, I have to “train” them. This means that I will leave the panels tied up and pleated for a few days. This way, the drapes hang and fall the way they are supposed to after being tied up for a couple days. All of these steps are very important for a project, and I take pride in my skills to make it perfect for the client.

After the drapes were finished, we moved on to other items that were delivered. By this time my delivery guys had arrived and started to unload the larger items. For this project, we had a dining table and chairs, counter stools, end tables, lamps, rugs, sideboards, art, and mirrors. I obviously know where everything is going, but I have to direct my guys where each piece is going. Unboxing and assembling the items also takes up a good amount of time. Chelsea worked on the loft area assembling tables and lamps, and I did everything downstairs. I hang all the art and mirrors, lay out rugs, style the room and hopefully (not this time, but soon!) finish the project. Typically, when the client comes home at the end of the installation day, they will see their finished spaces, but as I mentioned before, we were not able to do that with this project. I love showing them around and seeing all our hard work from the beginning to the end!

It is a long day and a long process, but install days are my favorite! There is nothing more rewarding than a satisfied client. I also love seeing my vision come to life in the spaces I design. I’m happy to help and hope you are happy as well. If you have any questions about this process, or in general, please DM, email, or call me so we can talk about your next project.

5 Tips to Style Your Home

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 16:02:35 GMT

Style. Texture. Decor.

5 Tips on How to Style Your New Home

In our last blog, we talked about building your home from the ground up and starting from scratch. This involves the build-out, lighting & electrical, paint, rugs, and drapery. Now, we have to touch on what to do to style your new home beyond that. Here I have listed 5 Tips for styling and decorating a fresh new home! If you’re doing a whole home revamp, then of course these will apply to that as well.

Artwork and Mirrors. Make sure your art is a focal point of the space you’re presenting it in. You want it to fit properly on the wall. Do not try to make an art piece that is too large fit on a small wall because it will overpower the space, and it looks out of place. Your designer can help you with measuring, hanging the right art pieces, and where they fit best on your wall. Adding mirrors will open up your room and pull the whole look together. There are SO many options to choose from, so knowing what will fit with your aesthetic is so important. Our design team knows about these all too well so we can help you find the right pieces!
Knowing your Style. Many times, we run into clients that have no clue what their own style is. We design with a Modern Transitional style, but we can incorporate different styles in with ours with the right items. As the homeowner, you are the one living in your home, so we want to design what you’re going to love. Putting together a mood board with colors, patterns, and designs that you like is as important for you as it is for me.
Texturize. Mixing textures will never go out of style. Much unlike the matchy-matchy furniture room sets that were very in about 15 years ago, mixing will be in style for years to come. For example, a lovely velvet settee with a metal and marble end table would look amazing in a foyer. Mixing materials can work in a new home, a home you’ve lived in for years, and a home that needs a refresh. We love mixing materials, finishes, and textures together in all of our projects!
We talked about paint last time, but we did not mention Wallpaper. And my goodness, wallpaper can do wonders! From a powder room that needs a pop to an accent ceiling, to fully wallpapered walls in a dining room, there are many options and fun ways to work with wallpaper. Wallpaper can bring out beautiful colors in your decor while mixing colors and textures. This makes for an elegant and sophisticated look.
Decor. Fresh cut flowers, house plants, books, vases, and lamps. These must have decorations should be in every home. I love fresh house plants, if you can keep them alive, but the fake ones work well too. These bring a freshness to your space that nothing else can do. No, not even those smelly glade plug-ins. Layering vases with books and mixing in some candle sticks will help finish off your new home!

Here are some overall guidelines. First, make a plan and a layout of your room. Second, figure out where you want to splurge and where you can cut some costs. Custom drapery and furniture are worth the extra money spent in my opinion. You can get away with décor being less expensive. Third, knowing what you want. With the help of a designer, like me, we can make your new home the perfect space that you’ll love for years!

Building A Home

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 19:46:58 GMT

Starting your home from Scratch-Must Do's

Designing a Home -

There are many obvious must-dos when you are building a home. You start with the architectural plans, contacting a builder, plumbing, electrical, etc., Once you have your structure and all of that taken care of, now it’s time to focus on the inside. Hiring a designer can help you know every little in and out of the definite To Do’s. Here are just a few of my must haves.

First off, paint colors. You will hire a painter, so knowing which grade of paint, which brand, and what colors you choose is super important! Knowing the layout of your home and how the colors will either go together, or clash, is something many people don’t think about. You want a flow through your spaces. The colors don’t have to match all the way through, but the flow of the color scheme is going to make your home look that much better.

Next up is lighting and light switches. Placement of electrical goes in with the house design from the initial planning. Most of the time you’re working around electrical boxes and outlets to figure out where the lighting is going to be located. Do you have a linear room? Great, then choose an elongated light fixture to match the space.

The next items are furniture and decor. Finding furniture, rugs, and decor that fit in your home is so important and there are many options available. First, measuring for rugs. What size and style rug are appropriate for the room? Where does it fit and what kind of furniture are you wanting? All of this can be figured out before your floor is laid! It is best to get your design selections and as many measurements as possible before moving in. This way, everything can be finished, hopefully, around the same time as your move in date. Same goes for measuring for art, mirrors, tables, and seating. I am currently working with a client that started from scratch on building a brand-new home, so be on the lookout for that project!

Finally, another big item for me is drapery. Drapery is a design element in a space that completes the look. I have mentioned this many times before and always to my clients. If you’re not going with custom plantation shutters or roman shades, then you will want drapery throughout the home. I can go in during the building stage, or when the space has been completed, to measure for drapery. The flooring needs to be installed so I can figure out lengths and heights for the panels. This allows me to have exact measurements.

There are so many items and tasks to think about when building a home. These are just some of my important ones when working on a new project.

Happy New Year! 2024

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 17:26:35 GMT

Fresh start in your home this new year

Happy New Year!

Thank you to everyone who has been following along with us this past year. To the clients who have supported my business and everyone who has helped along the way. This has been a year of changes and challenges, but also a year that was fun and exciting and full of new adventures! The year to come already has some exciting things underway and we look forward to bringing you all along with us!

There’s a lot you can do from small updates to a big project. Starting smaller with a fresh coat of paint, update your colors, paint your ceilings. I’ve also curated a list of things in your home that can hep you start fresh.

Here’s a list for getting your home ready for the year:

-Cutting down on your energy use. Turning off lights when you leave a room. Turning off the water when you’re brushing your teeth. Insulate your duct work to increase energy use. Reducing your carbon foot print. Switching to energy efficient bulbs is a big one! I have switched over to LED and this helps your energy use as well. There are many options for LED. Time to replace the Edison bulbs that are not energy efficient and the orange light is not in anymore.

-Improve indoor air quality. This means maintaining your HVAC system, change your furnace filter. 1 month ones are the best but, 3-6 month ones are ok as well.

-Durable materials. Look for more durable decor and items in your home that can last longer. This is also an opportunity to add indoor plants, which helps oxygen and air quality inside in the winter months! If you don’t have a green thumb like me, I have a blog and instagram post on this topic.

-Prepping or Emergencies. Aside from smoke alarms and carbon monoxide, check your emergency routes and exits. A little grab-bag of emergency items is also so important to grab and go in a hurry! Check your alarm batteries, especially if they’re beeping! Change those out asap.

-Creating a home cleaning routine. Sometimes making a list and sticking to this can help your home to stay cleaner. Devise daily, weekly, and monthly routines so you’re prepared. Keep cleaning supplies in the rooms they are used in.

-Making a note on how-to clean your surfaces. Furniture, floors, surfaces and decor. Walk through and make a list of the items you’re unsure of how they are supposed to be cleaned. Google is a great resource for your wood, granite, marble and upholstery.

-Declutter! New Years is a great time to “spring clean.” It all doesn’t have to be done at once, but start small. Your pantry has old items, your junk drawer needs to be organized, your freezer probably has some old expired food, so this is a great small place to start. I love to organize those spaces. It helps to get your home ready for a fresh new year!

-Lastly, Give your new items a proper home. After the holidays, new gifts need a place to live haha! Unpack, organize and rearrange!

Good Luck and Prosperity to you all in 2024! Keep following along and we will continue to help you and your home all year long!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 22:29:47 GMT

Wishing you all a wonderful Holiday Season!

Happy Holidays!

Here are some examples of how my family uses the spaces in our home during the Holidays. The main gathering areas and spaces in your home are: Kitchen, Dining Room, Living Room and Family Room.

The family room is normally your main room, this is where your tree is set up and stockings hang. Growing up we always opened our stockings Christmas Morning and were allowed to open a friend or neighbor gift on Christmas Eve. Every family has their own traditions and it’s fun to look back on. That is not what happens anymore as a family with grown kids! We did stockings when we woke up, made a big breakfast, then went back to open presents. Your family room is where you all gather. Curling up with coffee or cocoa, with a comfy blanket on the sofa is where all the memories begin. This time of year, since it gets darker earlier, your tree and lights can stay on all day. It’s the perfect time for a nice afternoon nap!

A living room is another space, which is more of a formal space. My aunt and grandmother each had a formal living room where we spent Christmas Eve. We spent Christmas Day with them as well. It’s hard to remember everything we did, but I do recall spending time at the holidays in the living room at my grandparents.

Of course, next is the kitchen. This is the most popular gathering place! This is where the food, drinks and people are. For me, I don’t cook much for the holidays because my mom and sisters always prepare the good olden days recipes. My mom has passed on the traditions from my grandmother to us, her kids. All the yummy goodies in the kitchen and eating all day long! We always stuff ourselves sick, haha from a big breakfast and lunch with appetizers and sweets. We usually order pizza for dinner now since we’ve spent the day cooking and eating and playing!

Lastly, the dining room is another staple place to spend time with family. Sit around the table, have conversation, somewhere to eat a nice meal and catch up on life. After dinner is cleared, we always play games around the table. We play heads up, dice games, card games and catch phrase. We always play games and eat treats together as a family. It’s a staple part of our holiday and tradition.

Today on Christmas, I am spending the day over at my sisters, my brand manager’s house with her family since they live closer by than any of my other family. I will spend it with her, my niece, nephew, and brother-in-law. Of course, a few gifts will be exchanged. I am looking forward to the family time and I hope you all have a wonderful holiday!

Last Minute Holiday Guide

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 13:38:41 GMT

Holiday Tips for Last Minute Decorating!

How to get your home Holiday Ready

If you aren’t already getting your home holiday ready, then it is time! I have some tips for the holidays and then tips for how to get interior design ready for the next years.

I love the look of a cozy corner. This is an area with a table, chair, and decor that looks put together, which is very easy to do! Niche decor items are meant for this space, festive little trees, garland, a holiday pillow, and coasters. There are many options! If you have a tree or Christmas tree, or if you are decorating for Hanukah or Kwanzaa, matching your cozy corner to the theme of your tree will bring the whole room together.

Another space is your mantle. Whatever you are celebrating this holiday season, lights, decorations, and garland are perfect for your mantle area. Also, you can coordinate your greenery in the house without moving them. We all know our plants need sunlight, so incorporate them with your holiday decor. Add some ribbons, bows, or holly to make them more festive.

Before decorating, there are some steps you could take to get your home ready for the holidays. If you are hosting this year, you’ll have guests and people in your home to accommodate, so a quick declutter is essential. Get rid of junk or clean out your extra spaces, like an office. Your laundry room and mudroom need to be clean and accessible for your guests as well. Your guest rooms and family rooms should be clean and tidy, so your guests feel comfortable.

Mudrooms have a lot of in and out traffic, and somewhere to put coats, boots, and shoes is essential. If you don’t have a closet or cubicle, a hall tree is a great alternative.

If you didn’t have time for all this, this year, then these are some ways to get ready for the next holiday season. You should make sure you have enough storage throughout the home, such as tables, end tables, trays, and a coffee table for drinks and food for guests. Ottomans and poofs are wonderful alternatives for seating, especially for kids. Another great staple item for a home that hosts is a pull-out sofa in a den or living room.

Now let’s talk about the dining room. If you have waited this long, then the dining room will have to do as is for this year. Ha! If you’re wanting to spruce it up, there are many ways to make it more inviting. A beautiful tablecloth or runner, some cute lanterns, garland, or bowl will be beautiful. You can always change your light bulbs to holiday themed or dim them. If you don’t have a dimmer, then changing out to lower watt bulbs is an easy, inexpensive option.

Please follow along on Instagram and TikTok for tips, tricks, and advice! My Pinterest, Teal and Slate, has many boards available with ideas if you need a visual. We hope everyone has a wonderful and safe holiday season!

Paint 101

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 14:18:31 GMT

Interior, Exterior and Accent Paint

All Things Paint

Here at Zachary Luke Designs, we love to spruce up a space with a fresh coat of paint! I generally use Benjamin Moore Paint. They offer the best and a wide variety of colors, options for indoor and out, different primers and paints. An all-around great quality paint company!

Starting with Interior paint colors, here are a few of my suggestions of colors I frequently use in projects, both commercial and residential. These are all-over color options.

Number 1, my personal favorite, Metropolitan. A nice warm grey, with undertones of blue green.

Number 2, Chantilly Lace. My favorite white. A white with a hint of grey that I use on all ceilings and trim.

Number 3, Smoke. Another grey with a blue undertone. If you don’t want a full gray, then this is a wonderful option that has more blue in it.

Number 4, Grey Owl. A lighter, medium grey. A wonderful all over color.

Number 5, Woodlawn Blue is another subtle blue.

Number 6, Pashmina. A neutral taupe, another favorite of mine that’s not blue or grey.

Now, onto Accent and Small Space Colors. These colors are typically a bit bolder; you want your accent to stand out and make a statement. Not necessarily an accent wall, those are not as popular in design anymore, but more on a ceiling or a small space, IE: a powder room, primary bedroom tray ceiling, or dining room tray ceiling.

My favorites are:

Hail Navy, a deep dark blue that would look great on a kitchen island or a powder room.

Kendall Charcoal, a charcoal grey with a little touch of brown.

Black Pepper, another charcoal but with blue-black tones.

Finally, Aegean Teal. This is a true teal, but bolder, more vibrant, which would look great as an accent!

Lastly, a little about exterior paint colors. Benjamin Moore has a few different options in exterior paints, and these are my top pick paint colors.

Starting out, a great soft white is White Dove. This has a tiny touch of yellow underneath, so you are not getting that typical bright white.

Next up, you cannot go wrong with sage, Sherwood Green is a beautiful green. This color would look gorgeous with white accents.

Lastly, a few repeat colors from our accents that would also work well on the exterior are Black Pepper and Kendall Charcoal. Wow, these colors would be spectacular outside!

Benjamin Moore offers a wide variety of colors, there is something for everyone. Contact us today to get your project started!

Budget and Aesthetic. Two Design Essentials.

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 20:49:44 GMT

DO this, NOT that: Client Edition

Buying a new home is so exciting. You pick your neighborhood, school district, house type, and everything in-between. Then comes move-in day, you get into your house, it’s empty, and immediately you start seeing every little detail that needs to be updated. The paint colors are off, none of the lighting matches, and the floors are bare or worn. Some rooms you’ll be able to get by with, but you are suddenly panicked because design just isn’t your forte. This can also apply to you if you’re wanting to update your home you’ve lived in for years. It’s probably time for a refresh! Here are a few tips that we suggest doing and not to do when looking into getting professional help.

First and foremost, you need to think and talk about the budget. DO google what your median range budget will be and about how much a project will cost before going into that consultation. DO NOT come to the consultation without knowing your budget. Some designers will not take on smaller projects, so it is best to have an idea of what you’re getting into. Small and big projects differ from designer to designer, but having a number you want to work with is best!

If you have a smaller budget, (again, this can vary) DO focus on one or two spaces to optimize and finish your space fully instead of trying to do too many rooms at once. If you’re focusing on a little bit in each room, then none of your spaces will look complete. You’re going to regret just focusing on one or two spaces. Sometimes we can stretch a small budget further than you think, so be open-minded and we will work with you!

Another important topic to research before that consultation is design aesthetics. Every designer you come across is going to have a different design style. Many are similar, of course, but you one hundred percent want to be confident that your vision is on board with your designers. So please DO know what aesthetic you’re looking for. DO NOT come to the consultation to try to change my design style because you won’t get what you’re looking for. Therefore, I won’t be doing the best job I can for you. Each client has their own style and vision, by working together we can select the best options for you. You will have as much say in how your home is designed as I will If we are on the same page.

These are just a few pointers we can give beforehand to optimize the designer-client relationship. This is important information to have even before you have a meeting with a designer. Budget, Google, and Aesthetic. Knowing what you want will help me to help you!

I Love Lamp! They're So Enlightening

Sat, 18 Nov 2023 17:49:35 GMT

What did the lamp eat? A light snack.

Tip Tuesday Topic: Lamps.

Lamps help to finish any room and elevate the decor in any space.

The difference between a Frustrating Friday video is talking about behind the scenes issues designers may have with clients or companies, and ways the client can understand a little bit of this from our point of view. Then, for Tip Tuesday, these are just little tips that you can do yourself, in and around your home or business, that you don’t necessarily need to hire a designer for.

This week on the blog I would like to do a Tip! And today’s tip is all about: Lamps!

Here are 4 different examples of lamps and ways to style them in your home or office. I will explain each type, but as always it all depends on the size of your room, space, and other furniture or decor.

Starting off with Sofa Table Lamp specifics: What size and where to use this lamp properly.

A sofa table typically goes behind a sofa, and it is appropriate especially if you have a sectional. This can work both ways, with a floating sofa or a sofa that is backed up against a wall. A set of sofa lamps is perfect for ambient light and is helpful if you don’t always want an overhead light on. This should be anywhere from 12 to under 20 inches so they won’t block off the room and will keep it visually in line with your sofa.

Next, Desk Lamps:

Typically, you will see a curved gooseneck lamp. Those are the most common styles for a desk. They have an adjustable height and point downwards towards your work. There are many options, colors, and sizes, they are truly the best classic look. Whatever you feel looks best in your space. Size wise, 18 to 25 inches is typical, but again, it can change with the size of your room and desk.

Now, onto, Table Lamps:

Generally, the same rules apply for table lamps. Average sizes for all the rooms in your house depend on your ceiling height, art work, tables, and the overall look of your room. A designer, like me, can visualize what type of lamp is best for your space. If your ceilings are shorter you don’t have to go over 32 inches high. If your ceilings are vaulted, then you have more room for taller lamps and larger shades.

Lastly, Buffet Lamps:

These are taller lamps that go into your dining room or a primary suite on your bedside tables. These start out around 30 inches. Again, it all depends on your ceiling height. For a primary suite, you will want a shorter lamp if you have a shorter headboard. If it’s taller, then use taller lamps so your design is cohesive.

When it comes to buffet or sideboard lamps, along with an art piece, you will want to elongate the art with the height of the lamp. Placing a lamp on either end of the buffet so it frames around the art on each side will help you execute this look. This gives your space a finished look. My favorite style is a smaller base and slim body with any size shade. Really though, I love lamps and adding them into your space gives your room the best finished look.

The Joys of Market

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 21:20:35 GMT

Favorite Market Finds and Designers

High Point Furniture Market

This event happens every Fall and Spring in High Point, North Carolina. It is basically fashion week for interior designers. This is where we preview new products released for the coming season. HPMKT is the largest interior design convention around. We get a chance to see what’s new and trending in the design world.

It was nice to see kind of a theme with every showroom, like everyone was on the same page as far as colors and design this year.

Starting my journey off with one of my favorite showrooms was: Hooker Furnishings.

They have everything except lighting and rugs. I saw plenty of neutrals and grays, which are connected to the colors of the year. I love their showroom, it’s very large, bright, and open. I immediately loved their new collection, BoBo. It is a mix of industrial modern farmhouse, and rustic. It’s definitely a different collection for them, but this new line has elements that can work with any design.

Next stop, onto Bernhardt Furniture. This is another one of my favorite showrooms and companies! Amazing upholstery that I have been using for years. It's nice to see that boucle is finally fading out. It's been around for 2 years now and has never been my favorite. It’s like sherpa, but not as pilly. Thankfully I’m seeing less. I love Bernhardt, and the showroom is beautiful, but it’s very neutral, so I’d love to see some pops of color! Boucle and Beige are just two trends I’m not a huge fan of. Iit seems like the colors are coming back, even muted tones and not necessarily bold colors.

Thibaut Furniture is up next and another favorite! They do wall coverings, wallpapers, fabric, and furniture with a great price point. They have a traditional showroom, but it was more updated this year and had a modern design!

Moving onto Art, I use Paragon Art. They have everything I’m looking for. From colors to sizes, to price points and the shipping is reasonable! I popped in there and did a few orders for clients, I just love their products! Abstracts are my favorite to use for clients, they have a wide selection and variety. Then my friend, designer Libby Langdon, popped in and has a lovely new collection. The card suits were my favorite, and they would look great in a game or media room.

Now moving onto Lamps and Rugs.

Surya is a great company to work with. I loved the travertine marble base lamps with a linen shade. They’re super heavy and sturdy, but a pretty design even with neutrals. Textured white is a staple.

Their rugs are also my favorite. Light blues, beige, off white, and gray are my favorite colors to work with. I can always find what I’m looking for and the price point is where I need it to be for my clientele.

Onto Eastern Accents, this is a drapery, bedding, and throw pillow company.

Their custom warehouse is based out of Chicago, and easily ships to NC. They do custom lengths for drapery. I just send them my measurements, they fabricate the drapery panels, then ship them to me. I do all drapery installations myself.

I immediately saw my favorite designer, Thom Filicia, as he was there when I walked in! He was on the original Queer Eye, and I’ve known him in the design world for 10 years! He has his own collection with EA.

The new collection that caught my eye has beautiful mustard yellow, gray, and other neutrals mixed in. Modern and chic with an adobe-southwest influence, but not the patterns, just in the details and colors.

While all of that is so fun, the most fun are the parties at the end of the long days. Most of the showrooms have these wonderful parties where I get to socialize and network. It is also great to see people I’ve known at market for years. It’s just a wonderful, all around great time, at High Point Furniture Market!

Who does what in the design world?

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 17:24:49 GMT

Here are the main differences in what an Interior Architect, Interior Designer and an Interior Decorator do, and my role in each.

I am an interior architect and designer. I am not an architect, but I am an interior architect, so that means I cannot focus on anything exterior. I focus on the interior, building interiors and space planning, while a designer focuses solely on the furnishing and decorating.

The interior architect has a much bigger task than just making the building aesthetically pleasing. It’s a great balancing act between the design aspects, the beauty, and the practicality of the space. It has to work with the functionality and environmental design. Where interior decoration purely focus on design aesthetics and furnishing.

That’s just a little explanation between the differences of designers, architects, and decorators.

I believe that getting an education in both residential and commercial interior design is the big difference between a designer and decorator. It is very important to know what field you want to focus on.

Architects need a bachelor’s and master’s degree. An Interior Architect needs to take many different classes in college to understand all aspects of the field such as structures, physics, and acoustics classes which all have factors in Interior Architecture.

Now onto Design Strategy and Concept:

First off, start with talking to a company or client to qualify them. At the first meeting, ask for their intentions, needs, and wish list to get a better understanding of what they are looking for.

With Residential clients, I go to their home and get to know their space, families, and how they live. I’m working personally with them for months at a time, so I like to get to know them for the longevity of the project.

With Commercial clients, before I go into a first meeting, I research the company, space, and what, who, where I will be working. This gives me an idea of who they are, and once I meet them, I get to know what kind of needs they have. Pro-tip: We must be ADA compliant, so there are many more factors when working commercial than residential.

We go over each office, kitchen, break room, and circulation space, etc. at this first meeting. Once I know all the information, I put together a project scope, how I want the space to look, and pricing. Which brings me to one of the biggest factors, budget. A huge part of the process is determining a budget. You’ll see me reiterate this is on my blog and videos.

Next, onto Concept design. I do a modern transitional look and stay away from trendy designs. I take all my measurements and use AutoCAD to help my clients visualize the project. Then, the interior designer in me comes to play and this is where I make my selections for finishing the space.

There are many differences in these 3 careers, but the way I did it was best for me. From learning architecture before design, then incorporating both in my degree, and applying it to the outside world of interior architecture. It’s so much fun! I wear many hats in this field. I love to meet with clients and see the project through until installation day. This brings so much satisfaction in the end.

Some sources I’d like to mention and thank:

New School of Architectural Design

Architectural Digest

Forbes

Interview with an Interior Designer

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 19:14:33 GMT

Questions to ask an Interior Designer

Have you ever wanted to ask an Interior Designer some burning questions?! Well, today we have a fun treat for you, I am answering a few straight forward questions that are general, but also very important in the design/client world!

To get started, I’m going over frequently asked questions and then onto more personal questions that I had fun answering with my brand manager and sister, Chelsea. Let’s get started!

Q: How long does the design process typically take?

A: It can take anywhere between 5-9 months and sometimes even a year, depending on the size of the project.

Q: Is it best to have a budget beforehand?

A: Yes! This helps me know what kind of project I’m going to be doing and what companies to select from.

Q: And is that budget subject to change?

A: If you’re increasing your budget, yes, but if you’re lowering it, typically not.

Q: What are interior must haves?

A: Good quality upholstery is a must! Another is a quality bed and bedding. Lastly, finishing off with drapery.

Q: What are your favorite colors to work with?

A: My top favorites are whites, blues, greens and gray of course!

Q: And what is your personal favorite color?

A: Chartreuse!

Q: What type of design do you do?

A: Modern Transitional. Which means mixing traditional and contemporary design together. Also, transitioning through the years, so that the client can have this space for 7-10 years and it’s also why I don’t do trendy design. Modern is also part of that and it can be a now-type of design that will last.

Q: Who’s your favorite Interior Designer?

A: I actually don’t have one, but I have two!

That would be Thom Filicia and Mary McDonald. I am both inspired by them and look up to them.

Q: What about your favorite Architect?

A: That’s easy! Mies van der Rohe

Q: Last question, just for fun, What’s your favorite ice cream?

A: Mint chocolate chip, yum!

Colors of the Year 2024

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 21:32:55 GMT

Colors of the Year 2024

Each year some of the biggest names in colors come out with what they believe will be the most popular color of the year! For this upcoming year of 2024, we are looking at some beautiful rich hues with deep undertones. We have reds, blues and orange.

Benjamin Moore is Blue Nova. What a beautiful blue! A lovely tone of violet and blue. It has hints of grey and periwinkle, and would look amazing in your home to give it a fresh and updated look! We are in love with this color and everything Benjamin Moore does!

Reds are making a comeback, however, not in the old out of date way they were 10 years ago. Now they are deep and bold and have complimentary colors where before they were bright, tacky or dull.

Orange has always been a staple for a pop of color in your decor, especially when seasonally decorating. As well as blue, it’s a must! At Zachary Luke Designs, we love blue! You have various tones for wall colors, and multiple tones of blue for your art work, decor, drapes, and furnishings. Especially Sherwin Williams Upward, a blue with gray undertones. Chefs Kiss. Perfection!

Pantone’s is Rooibos Tea , a full body red with rich woodsy tones.

This color has red and brown, with red being the more prominent tone.

It’s a deep, bold color that makes a statement. A moody lampshade for a speakeasy room feel, to a rich velvet sofa. This color is luxurious.

Sherwin Williams is Upward , feminine blue with calm gray undertones.

It’s a baby blue that pairs well with whites and grays. A perfect color for a main bedroom or a dining area, it would also look lovely as an exterior home all-over color. Paired against soft white trim and neutral wood floors, this color would compliment any space.

Hgtv Home with Sherwin Williams color is Persimmon. This reddish-orange shade is between an earthy and spice tone. It pairs well with yellows, like mustard and amber, and neutrals from darker browns to lighter creams. It can be that bolder pop of color on an accent wall or decor.

Contact me, Zachary at Zachary Luke Designs if you’re interested in updating your home with any of these new colors of the year, or any modern transitional design colors you’d love!

Fall Interior Design Trends

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 21:38:31 GMT

Interior design 101: Welcome to Fall 2023

Class is in session!

Zachary Luke here to give you 4 tips on how to be on trend for Fall.

Neutral-earthy tones are staple colors throughout homes and never go out of style.

If you’re looking to update your paint color, some lovely neutrals are Beiges, creams and off white. You can use these colors for years to come in any room.

Secondly, adding in pillows and throws is such an easy way to decorate your space and be in the autumn mood!

Orange is a wonderful pop of color, along with brown, mustard and olive green for fall. There are so many pillow and blanket options out there to spruce up your space for a cozy fall feel.

Next, decor decor decor ! Everywhere you look right now there are some really cute fall decorations to liven up your space! Along with your neutral walls and pop of color accents, some different colored pumpkins, leafy wreaths, burlap bows, lanterns and candles with yummy fall scents will certainly transform your home to the right vibe you’re looking for!

Lastly, Halloween is just around the corner and now is the time to start decorating! Whether you’re into spooky witches or friendly ghosts, your yard and front steps are ready! Foyers, front doors, and windows are all fun places to decorate for Halloween. Carve those pumpkins and light those lanterns because it’s that time of year.

Have a Happy October!

Color Popping Guide

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 16:00:00 GMT

How to add pizzazz

Hello, my dear design enthusiasts! It's Zachary Luke, from Zachary Luke Designs, here to talk about one of my favorite design techniques: color popping. If you're looking to add a bit of pizzazz to your room and make it really stand out, then color popping is the way to go. Here are my top tips for adding color pops to your room.

Start with a neutral base: The first step in color popping is to start with a neutral base. This means painting your walls in a neutral color like white, gray, or beige. This will create a clean slate for your pops of color to really shine.
Choose your color scheme: Once you have your neutral base, it's time to choose your color scheme. This can be as simple as choosing one or two accent colors to add to your room, or you can choose a more complex color scheme with multiple colors. Whatever you choose, make sure it complements the rest of the room and doesn't clash with any existing decor.
Use pops of color strategically: When it comes to color popping, less is often more. You don't want to overwhelm the room with too many bright colors, so it's important to use pops of color strategically. This can mean adding colorful throw pillows to your sofa, hanging a bright piece of artwork on the wall, or incorporating a colorful rug into the space.
Mix and match textures: To really make your color pops stand out, try mixing and matching textures. For example, you could add a velvet throw pillow in a bright color, or incorporate a stone lamp or metal end table into the room. Mixing textures will add depth and interest to the space and help your pops of color really pop.
Consider lighting: Finally, don't forget about lighting when color popping. The right lighting can really make your pops of color stand out and create a beautiful atmosphere in the room. Consider adding a colorful chandelier or pendant light to the space to really make your color pops shine.

In conclusion, adding pops of color to your room is a fun and easy way to add some personality and flair to your space. By starting with a neutral base, choosing your color scheme, using pops of color strategically, mixing and matching textures, and considering lighting, you can create a beautifully color-popped room that is sure to impress. So go forth and have fun with color, my lovely design enthusiasts!

Boucle: The Bumpy Road I'd Rather Not Travel

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 16:00:00 GMT

The bumpy road I'd rather avoid in my design journey

Hello! It’s Zachary Luke, from Zachary Luke Designs. I am all about celebrating textures, colors, and patterns that bring joy to our spaces. However, there is one trend that makes me cringe every time it comes into the spotlight: boucle. In this blog post, I'm going to explain why this bumpy fabric trend fails to ignite my design passion. Buckle up everyone because we're about to explore why this makes me cringe.

The Texture That Tickles My Nerves:

Boucle, with its looped yarns and distinctive texture, may be adored by many, but it simply doesn't resonate with me. While some find its tactile quality comforting, I find it overwhelming and even irritating. The pronounced loops create a visual and physical distraction that disrupts the visual harmony of a space.

I believe in creating spaces that feel welcoming, calming, and harmonious. Boucle, on the other hand, adds an element of restlessness that contradicts the sanctuary-like atmosphere I strive to achieve. I prefer fabrics that offer a smooth touch and a serene aesthetic, allowing us to unwind and embrace tranquility in our personal havens .

Maintenance Mayhem: The Highs and Lows of Boucle:

Let's talk about maintenance. Boucle fabrics can be a nightmare to keep in pristine condition. The loops tend to trap dirt, dust, and pet hair, making them a magnet for messes. Cleaning and maintaining boucle upholstery or textiles often become a stressful task, requiring special care and attention.

I encourage practicality and ease of maintenance in our design choices. We deserve fabrics that can withstand everyday life without causing unnecessary stress. Opting for performance fabrics can save us from the constant battle against dirt and grime, allowing us to focus on enjoying our spaces.

Limited Versatility: Boucle's Monotonous Melody:

Boucle fabrics can dominate a space and limit design possibilities. While they may add a cozy texture, their distinctive appearance can easily overpower other design elements. Whether it's a sofa, chair, or throw pillow, boucle tends to steal the show, leaving little room for other textures and patterns to shine. The shaved sheep skin looking fabric has no place in my designs.

I believe in the power of versatility and the freedom to mix and match different materials. This allows me to create eclectic and visually captivating spaces. Choosing fabrics with more subtle textures allows us to layer patterns, play with contrasts, and achieve a harmonious balance of visual interest in our interiors.

While boucle may have its devotees, this bumpy road is one I'd rather avoid in my design journey. Its overwhelming texture, high maintenance requirements, and limited versatility simply don't align with my vision of creating serene, practical, and visually captivating spaces. In interior design, we celebrate individuality, and that includes embracing and voicing our preferences. So, if boucle isn't your cup of tea either, fear not! There's a world of design options waiting to be explored, textures that will tickle your senses in just the right way, and fabrics that will make your heart skip a beat.

4 Things In Interior Design That Are.. NOT HOT

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 16:00:00 GMT

What to steer away from, and what to do instead!

Hello, design enthusiasts! It’s Zachary Luke from Zachary Luke Designs, I am here to spill the tea on some design trends that are definitely not hot right now. Our spaces should be a reflection of our unique personalities, and that means steering clear of trends that have overstayed their welcome. In this blog post, I'm going to dish about four design elements that need to take a backseat, pronto!

Vessel Sinks: A Design Trend That's All Washed Up!

Vessel sinks have had their time in the spotlight, but it's time to bid them adieu. While they may have once been considered sleek and contemporary, these basin-like sinks have become somewhat cliché. Let's face it, they can be impractical and high-maintenance, not to mention the splashes that can occur during everyday use.

Instead, let's explore the world of undermount or integrated sinks. These hidden gems offer a cleaner, more streamlined look, seamlessly blending into the countertop. With a variety of materials and shapes to choose from, you can find the perfect sink that adds functionality and elegance to your space.

DIY Distressed Decor: Distressing Our Patience Instead of the Furniture!

Ah, distressed decor. It was once a charming way to add character to a space, but now it's starting to feel overdone. While some may argue that distressing furniture creates a rustic, shabby-chic vibe, it often ends up looking contrived or even downright tacky.

Instead, let's explore authentic vintage or antique pieces that bring a unique story and character to your space. Invest in quality craftsmanship and pieces with genuine wear and tear. This way, you'll achieve an effortless and timeless look that speaks volumes about your impeccable taste.

Barn Doors: It's Time to Close the Barn on This Trend!

Barn doors had a moment in the design world, but it's time to bid them farewell. These rustic sliding doors were once seen as a charming and space-saving solution, but they have become a bit too predictable and mainstream.

Instead, let's explore alternative door options that add personality and style to our spaces. French doors can create an elegant and sophisticated entryway, while pocket doors can save space and provide a sleek, modern look. Embrace unique door designs that make a statement and elevate your space to new heights.

Accent Walls: Let's Step Away from the Drama!

Accent walls were once the go-to way to add visual interest and drama to a room. But, we must remember that design is all about balance. An accent wall can quickly become overpowering and disrupt the harmony of a space.

Instead, let's consider more subtle ways to introduce color and texture. The new accent wall is to accent your ceiling. You can also play with artwork, textiles, and furniture pieces that bring pops of color and personality to your room without overwhelming the space. Create a cohesive design that flows naturally from wall to wall.

In the world of interior design, trends come and go, and it's important to know when to say goodbye. Vessel sinks, DIY distressed decor, barn doors, and accent walls have had their time in the spotlight, but their allure has waned. I encourage you to embrace fresh, innovative ideas and let your unique personality shine through in every design choice.

Breaking Design Boundaries: My Three Hard Passes in Interior Design

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Hard passes & their daring alternatives!

Welcome, to the fabulous world of interior design! I’m Zachary Luke from Zachary Luke Designs. I take immense pride in creating spaces that truly reflect the unique perso nalities and vibrant spirits of my clients. In this blog post, I want to share with you three of my hard passes in interior design, where I break free from the conventional norms and embrace daring alternatives that infuse life and character.

Monochromatic Spaces? No, Thank You! Let's Play with Colors!

Monochromatic spaces have their charm, but life is too short to limit ourselves to a single hue. Instead of confining my designs to a monochromatic palette, I love to explore color schemes. Colors have the power to evoke emotions, set moods, and create visual interest.

Incorporating pops of color is my secret weapon. Whether it's through vibrant throw pillows, bold art pieces, or playful accessories, I believe in injecting doses of color to enliven a space. Picture a stunning living room with neutral furnishings, where vibrant turquoise throw pillows add to the beauty, or a chic bedroom with a calming palette, accentuated by vibrant artwork.

Marble in the Kitchen? Let's Rock with Quartzite!

Marble has long been a symbol of luxury and elegance in kitchen design. However, my discerning eye tells me that it's time to break free from tradition. While marble certainly has its allure, it's a delicate stone that requires diligent care to maintain its pristine beauty. Enter quartzite, everyone!

Quartzite, a hard stone formed from sandstone and quartz, offers the perfect alternative. With its durability, resistance to heat, and striking natural patterns, quartzite adds a touch of drama and sophistication to any kitchen. Imagine a sleek quartzite countertop in a bold pattern or a statement-making quartzite backsplash that becomes the focal point of the space. Let's rock the kitchen with this stunning, low-maintenance choice!

Goodbye 12x12 Tile, Hello Statement-Sized Stones!

Ah, the classic 12x12 tile, a staple of traditional design. It's time to think bigger and bolder! When it comes to flooring, walls, or even shower enclosures, why limit ourselves to tiny squares? Let's break free from the constraints of size and embrace larger stones like 12x24 18x18, or even larger.

Larger stone tiles not only make a grand visual statement but also create an illusion of more space, especially in smaller rooms. Picture a luxurious bathroom with large-format stone tiles, perfectly accentuated by delicate mosaic accents. The possibilities are endless.

I believe in celebrating individuality and pushing the boundaries of design. By veering away from monochromatic spaces and introducing pops of color, swapping marble for quartzite in the kitchen, and embracing larger stone tiles, we can create spaces that truly reflect our vibrant personalities.

Buy This, Not That

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 16:00:06 GMT

An Interior Designer's Tips for Decorating Your Home

Hello, darlings! It’s Zachary Luke, from Zachary Luke Designs. I believe that creating a space that truly reflects your unique personality is essential. Today, I want to share some fabulous tips for making smart choices when it comes to interior design. Whether you're redesigning your entire home or simply looking to refresh a few elements, these tips will guide you towards making fabulous decisions. So, let's dive in and explore the art of "buy this, not that''!

Quartz or Quartzite: Choose Durability Over Delicate Beauty:

When it comes to selecting countertops or surfaces, opt for quartz or quartzite over softer stones. While marbles and other delicate stones may be undeniably glamorous, they can be prone to chipping and require extra care. Quartz and quartzite, on the other hand, offer both elegance and durability. They withstand the tests of time, making them a perfect choice for stylish and practical interiors.

2. Throw Pillows and Wall Decor: Pops of Color Made Easy:

Injecting pops of color into your space is a fantastic way to add personality and create visual interest. To achieve this, choose vibrant throw pillows or captivating wall decor. These elements provide an effortless way to introduce bold hues and patterns without committing to a complete room overhaul. Plus, they're incredibly easy to switch out whenever you feel like giving your space a fresh look or adapting to seasonal trends.

3. Splurge on Quality Upholstery: Invest in Longevity and Beauty:

When it comes to upholstered furniture, such as sofas and armchairs, don't shy away from spending a little extra for quality pieces. High-quality upholstery not only lasts longer but also ages gracefully, becoming even more appealing over time. Look for durable fabrics, like leather or performance textiles, that can withstand daily use and still look fabulous. Investing in quality upholstery ensures that your statement pieces remain both comfortable and stylish for years to come.

Designing a home that truly reflects your personality is a delightful journey. By following these "buy this, not that" tips, you'll make smart choices that enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of your space. Happy decorating, my darlings, and may your space be a reflection of the fabulous person you are!

Creating a Fabulous Home Office

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 16:00:00 GMT

Some Tips to Create the Best Work Space

Hello darlings! It’s Zachary Luke, from Zachary Luke Designs. I have passion for creating spaces that celebrate individuality, I am thrilled to share some expert tips on designing a fabulous home office. With the rise of remote work and the need for a productive, yet stylish workspace, it's essential to curate an environment that sparks joy and ignites creativity. So, let's dive right in and transform your home office into a vibrant and inviting sanctuary.

Embrace Self-Expression:

I believe in the power of self-expression, and what better place to do so than where you spend a lot of time, your home office!? As I mentioned in RedFin’s Home Office Design Blog , “The foremost consideration in designing your home workspace is to ensure it reflects your unique personality and exudes a sense of relaxation. Since you are the sole occupant of this space, it should be a comforting and inviting extension of yourself.” Don't be afraid to complete the ambiance by adorning the walls with art, as gazing at blank walls all day is hardly inspiring. Embrace the opportunity to personalize your space, making it a true reflection of your identity and an environment that encourages productivity and enjoyment.

2. Prioritize Comfort and Ergonomics:

A productive workspace should not sacrifice comfort. Invest in a supportive chair that offers proper back and lumbar support, as you'll be spending long hours seated. Consider adjustable desks or standing desks to promote good posture and reduce strain on your body. Don't forget to include cozy elements like plush cushions, blankets, and curtains to add a touch of warmth.

3. Let Natural Light Work Its Magic:

Natural light is a game-changer for any space, and your home office is no exception. Position your desk near a window to maximize the amount of sunlight flooding into your workspace. Not only does natural light improve your mood and boost productivity, but it also adds an airy and inviting ambiance. Opt for light and sheer curtains that allow ample light to pass through while maintaining privacy.

4. Add Personal Touches:

Your home office should be an extension of your personality and interests. Display your favorite artwork, photographs, or sentimental objects that inspire you. Personal touches will not only make your office feel like a sanctuary but also serve as a reminder of who you are and what you stand for.

5. Create a Zen Zone:

Incorporate elements of relaxation and mindfulness into your office space. Introduce indoor plants to purify the air and infuse natural beauty. Place scented candles or essential oil diffusers on your desk to create a calming atmosphere. Don't forget to curate a playlist of soothing or energizing tunes that keep you focused and motivated throughout the day.

Designing a remarkable home office is all about celebrating your uniqueness, fostering productivity, and infusing your space with a sense of joy. I encourage you to embrace your authentic self and create an environment that inspires you to do your best work. By incorporating color, comfort, natural light, organization, personal touches, and relaxation elements, you'll create a fabulous home office that reflects your individuality and enhances your professional journey. Remember, your workspace should always make you feel proud, empowered, and ready to conquer the world, one beautifully designed space at a time!

10 Houseplants That Are Cat Safe

Wed, 31 May 2023 15:26:47 GMT

10 Cat-Safe Houseplants to Spruce Up Your Space

W elcome, plant enthusiasts and feline lovers! It’s Zachary Luke, from Zachary Luke Designs. Today I’m going to introduce a list of ten beautiful and cat-safe houseplants that will add a touch of greenery while ensuring the well-being of your beloved feline friends. Let's dive in!

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum):

T his resilient beauty boasts long, arching leaves that dangle elegantly. The spider plant is not only non-toxic to cats but also a natural air purifier, removing harmful toxins from your home. Hang it or place it on a high shelf to prevent curious nibbles.

Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata):

Known for its lush, feathery fronds, the Boston Fern is a classic choice. This pet-safe plant thrives in moderate indirect light and high humidity. Be sure to keep the soil moist to create an ideal environment for your fern while keeping your curious kitty safe.

Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens):

Adding a tropical touch to your space, the Areca Palm brings a sense of serenity with its graceful fronds. This cat-friendly plant thrives in bright, indirect light and moderate watering. Place it where your furry friend can't reach the delicate fronds, as they may be tempted to play.

Calathea (Calathea spp.):

Calatheas are renowned for their vibrant and uniquely patterned leaves, making them a visual delight. Luckily, they are non-toxic to cats. These plants prefer moderate to low light conditions and moist soil, making them perfect for adding a pop of color to any corner of your home.

Money Tree (Pachira aquatica):

Symbolizing good luck and fortune, the Money Tree is not only pet-safe but also easy to care for. With its braided trunk and glossy leaves, it adds a touch of elegance to any space. Place it in a bright spot and water it sparingly to ensure its health and your cat's safety.

Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata):

The Friendship Plant, with its textured leaves and trailing habit, is an ideal choice for hanging baskets or tabletop arrangements. Cats can safely explore its unique foliage without any worries. Provide bright, indirect light and keep the soil slightly moist to keep this beauty happy.

Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya):

A true eye-catcher, the Polka Dot Plant features vibrant, spotted leaves that come in various colors. Its non-toxicity to cats makes it a delightful addition to your plant collection. This beauty prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Regular pruning will help maintain its compact form.

Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans):

The Parlor Palm is an excellent choice for smaller spaces. With its delicate, feather-like foliage, it brings a touch of nature indoors without compromising your cat's safety. Place it in a well-lit area away from direct sunlight and water it when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia):

With its attractive, glossy leaves, the Baby Rubber Plant adds a touch of elegance to any room. This non-toxic house plant thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers its soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Your curious cat can safely investigate this compact beauty.

Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii):

Last but not least, the Bamboo Palm is a pet-friendly plant that lends a tropical vibe to your living space. With its slender, arching fronds, it's sure to create a calming atmosphere. Keep it in bright, indirect light and water it when the top inch of soil becomes dry.

By selecting cat-safe house plants, you can create an inviting and vibrant home while ensuring the well-being of your feline companions. Happy decorating, and may your home flourish with both greenery and purrs of contentment!

3 Things I Would Never Do With Interior Design

Wed, 24 May 2023 20:11:26 GMT

3 Things I would never do with interior design- And what I would do instead!

Hello, my fabulous readers, it's Zachary Luke, from Zachary Luke Designs. I'm often asked what are some of the biggest mistakes people make when designing their spaces. Today, I'm going to talk about three topics I would never do with interior design, and what I would do instead.

Using the Wrong Rug Size for a Space

The first on the list that comes to mind is using the wrong rug size for a space. It's a common mistake I see all the time. People tend to choose rugs that are too small for their living rooms or dining rooms, which can make the space feel disconnected and unbalanced.

Instead, I always recommend choosing a rug that's large enough to anchor the space. In a living room, for example, the rug should be big enough so that the front legs of all the furniture are on the rug. This creates a cohesive look and makes the space feel cozy and inviting.

2. Incorrect Lighting for a Space

The second mistake I see a lot is incorrect lighting for a space. Lighting can make or break a room, and it's important to get it right. To o often, people rely on one overhead light to illuminate the entire space, which can create harsh shadows and make the room feel cold and uninviting.

Instead, I recommend layering lighting throughout the space. This includes overhead lights, table lamps, and floor lamps. Also, try adding in some fun, eye-catching light fixtures! By using multiple light sources, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere that's perfect for relaxing or entertaining.

3. Incorrect Art Sizes or Hanging Heights for Artwork

The third mistake I see is incorrect art sizes or hanging heights for artwork. Artwork can be a great way to add personality and style to a room, but it's important to hang it correctly. I've seen too many people hang artwork too high or choose pieces that are too small for the space.

Instead, I always recommend choosing artwork that's the right size for the wall. When hanging an oversized piece, try hanging it inline with the window frame. If you are working a large wall for your art piece, hang the artwork to mimic the shape of the window instead of lining it up exactly. This creates a focal point in the room and makes the space feel more polished and put together.

In conclusion, these are three items I would never do with interior design, and what I would do instead. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a space that's beautiful, functional, and uniquely yours. As an interior designer, I believe that everyone deserves a space that reflects their personality and style. So, go ahead and get creative, and remember to always have fun with your interior design!

3 Things Making Your House Look Cheap

Wed, 17 May 2023 22:48:41 GMT

Some things that make your house look cheap & what to do instead!

Hello, fabulous readers, it's Zachary Luke, from Zachary Luke Designs. I know that creating a beautiful home is all about the details. Unfortunately, there are a few thi ngs that can make even the most beautiful home look cheap. Today, I'm going to talk about three of these topics and what you can do instead, to elevate your home's style.

Grommet Curtains

The first item that can make your home look cheap is grommet curtains. They were fine for you in your late teens/earl y twenties, but it's time to move on. They may seem like a convenient option, but they can make your windows look unfinished and unpolished. Grommet curtains can also look cheap because they're often made from thin, low-quality materials.

Instead of grommet curtains, I always recommend using custom drapery panels. Drapery panels are a more elegant option that add a touch of sophistication to any room. They also come in a variety of materials and colors, so you can choose something that fits your style and budget. Always add that blackout lining in as well.

2. DIY Accessories

The second item that can make your home look cheap is DIY accessories. I have been seeing this a lot recently with bedroom furniture and accessories. It's important to know when it's better to splurge on quality accessories instead of making something yourself. DIY accessories can look cheap because they often lack the polish and attention to detail of professionally made pieces.

Instead of DIY accessories, I recommend looking for budget-friendly options to accessorize with. There are great options for affordable accessories that still look stylish and well-made. Consult me if you’re looking to upgrade the accessories in your home, and don’t know where to look.

3. Full Furniture Sets

The third item that can make your home look cheap is buying a full furniture set from places like Ashley Furniture Store or Rooms to Go. While it may be convenient to buy everything in one place, these furniture sets can look cheap because they lack variety and personality.

Instead of buying a full furniture set, I always recommend mixing fabrics, colors, and textures to create a unique and personalized look. By choosing furniture pieces that complement each other but aren't matchy-matchy, you can create a cohesive and stylish space that feels like you.

These are three topics that can make your home look cheap, and what you can do instead to elevate your style. Remember, creating a beautiful home is all about the details, so take your time and invest in quality pieces that will stand the test of time. And always remember to have fun with your interior design!

Top Tips For Your Bedroom

Wed, 10 May 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Achieve Style And Comfort With A Touch Of Glamour

Hey there, it's Zachary Luke from Zachary Luke Designs, and I'm here to help you turn your bedroom into a sanctuary of style and comfort. As someone who loves to add a t ouch of glamor to every space, I have some tips and tricks to share with you that will take your bedroom to the next level.

First, let's talk about bedding. The quality of your bed sets can make or break the entire look of your bedroom. Choose sheets, comforters, and pillowcases made of high-quality materials that feel soft and cozy against your skin. Stick with neutral colors for a timeless and sophisticated look, or go bold with a pop of color if that's more your style. Just make sure everything is cohesive and looks intentional. Just please.. Do not buy a bed in a bag!

Next up, let's talk about drapery. Floor-to-ceiling drapes add a touch of elegance to any room, and the bedroom is no exception. Not only do they make the space look larger, but they also provide privacy and block out light for a better night's sleep. Choose a fabric that compliments your bedding and the overall color scheme of your bedroom.

Now, let's talk about accent ceilings. An accent ceiling can add drama and depth to your bedroom, and there are several ways to achieve this effect. One way is to paint the ceiling a bold color that complements the walls and bedding. Another option is to install a statement light fixture that draws the eye upward and adds visual interest to the space.

Last but not least, don't forget to accessorize. Adding a few carefully chosen decorative items can tie the whole look of your bedroom together. Consider adding some throw pillows, a cozy rug, or some artwork that complements the overall color scheme and style of the room.

So there you have it, my top tips for creating a stylish and comfortable bedroom. Remember, the key to a great bedroom design is to choose quality materials and to add some personal touches that reflect your unique style. With a little bit of creativity and some attention to detail, you'll have a bedroom that's both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

Photo: Dustin Peck

Interior Design: The Perks.. and the Frustrations

Thu, 04 May 2023 20:56:56 GMT

A little bit about the life of an Interior Designer

Oh, hello there my fabulous readers! It’s Zachary Luke, from Zachary Luke Designs, and today I want to discuss the perks and cons of being an interior designer. Trust me, darlings, there are plenty of both!

Let's start with the perks. As an interior designer, you get to be creative and express your personality through your work. You get to play with colors, textures and patterns, and create beautiful spaces that people will love. Designing a space is not just about making it look good; it's about creating an environment that reflects the client's vision and lifestyle. I take great pleasure in collaborating with clients to understand their needs, preferences, aspirations, and using my skills creatively to translate those into tangible design concepts.

Which brings me to another perk of interior design, the ability to help people improve the aesthetic and functionality of their homes and businesses. There's something truly rewarding about being able to transform a space into something that truly reflects the personality and style of its owner or business owner. I love the process of collaborating with clients to come up with design concepts that will not only meet their needs but also exceed their expectations. It brings me joy to see the look of satisfaction on their faces once the project is completed so they can fully enjoy the space. Being a part of that transformation is truly fulfilling and makes me love what I do even more.

Another perk of interior design is the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects. Each project is unique, with its own set of challenges and requirements, and this keeps my work exciting and dynamic. Whether it's designing a client’s house, or a business, each project allows me to exercise my creativity and problem-solving skills in new ways. I also love the opportunity to work with a diverse group of clients, each with their own tastes and preferences, which keeps me constantly learning and growing as a designer.

Oh yes, let's not forget the cons. First of all, clients can be difficult sometimes, just like any person when you’re working with them intimately. Some have unrealistic expectations, some change their minds constantly, and some can be downright difficult to deal with. Locking a client down on a budget can be challenging as well. For some clients, but very few, they think that interior designers have a magic wand that can make everything look fabulous without spending the money they need to.

Another huge con is being asked to work on large projects with short timelines. While I understand that clients may have deadlines they need to meet, rushing a project can compromise the quality of the final product. Interior design involves a lot of planning, research, and attention to detail, and trying to complete a large project in a short amount of time can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming. It can also limit my ability to explore creative solutions and ideas that could take more time to develop.

But despite the cons, I wouldn't trade my job for anything in the world. Being an interior designer is my passion, and I love helping people create beautiful and functional spaces that they'll love for years to come. So, there you have it, everyone. The perks and cons of being an interior designer. It's not always glamorous, but it's definitely worth it.

7 Houseplants that are ‘NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE’ to kill

Mon, 01 May 2023 19:11:45 GMT

For the people who cant keep sh** alive!

Well, hello there friends! It's Zachary Luke, from Zachary Luke Designs, and today I’m here to talk to you about the easiest houseplants for all you plant killers out there. Yes, I'm talking to you - the ones who can't seem to keep anything alive for more than a few weeks. Fear not, because I have some fabulous and foolproof houseplants that will bring some life and greenery into your home without causing you any stress.

First on the list is the snake plant, also known as mother-in-law's tongue. This sturdy plant is practically indestructible and can survive in a wide range of light and temperature conditions. It requires very little water, so it's perfect for those of you who tend to forget about your plants for weeks at a time. Plus, its long, spiky leaves add a modern and sculptural element to any room.

Next up is the wax plant, also known as the Hoya. This gorgeous plant has waxy, succulent-like leaves and clusters of fragrant flowers that bloom in the summer. It's a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a wide range of lighting conditions, from bright indirect light to low light. It doesn't need a lot of water, so it's perfect for those who tend to forget about their plants. Plus, it's a great air purifier, so it will help keep your home healthy and fresh.

Another is the pothos plant. This trailing plant is a favorite among interior designers, thanks to its lush, green leaves and its ability to thrive in low light. It's also incredibly easy to care for - just water it occasionally and give it a bit of fertilizer every few months. It's the perfect plant for beginners, and it looks great in hanging baskets or on shelves.

Next on the list is the blue star fern, also known as the “Love fern” for anyone who’s seen how to lose a guy in 10 days! This plant has unique blue-green fronds that add a pop of color to any room. It's a hardy plant that can survive in low light and requires minimal watering. It's also known for its air purifying qualities, making it a great addition to any home or office.

Another easy plant to care for is the spider plant. This classic houseplant has been popular for decades, thanks to its ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. It prefers bright, indirect light and likes to be watered when the soil feels dry. But even if you forget to water it for a few weeks, it will bounce back quickly once you give it some TLC.

Then we have the rubber plant, also known as the Ficus Elastica. This stunning plant has glossy, dark green leaves that add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room. It's a low-maintenance plant that can tolerate a range of lighting conditions, from low light to bright indirect light. It's also drought-resistant, so it's perfect for those who tend to forget about watering their plants. Plus, it's a great air purifier, so it will help keep your home healthy and fresh.

Last but not least, we have the ZZ plant. This plant is a recent favorite among interior designers, thanks to its glossy, dark green leaves and its ability to thrive in low light and dry conditions. It's practically impossible to kill - just water it once a month and give it a bit of fertilizer in the spring and summer. It's the perfect plant for those of you who want to add some greenery to your home without having to worry about constant care.

So there you have it, my lovely friends - some of the easiest houseplants for those of you who are plant killers at heart. With these foolproof plants, you'll be able to add some life and greenery to your home without any stress or fuss. Happy planting!