OUR BLOG
Biophilic Design
The term “biophilic design” may be somewhat new, but the idea of creating healthier spaces with nature’s influence is far from new. But, what is biophilic design? We’ve heard people describe it as “bringing any element of nature into a space”, which is pretty surprising that this would be seen as some new breakthrough idea.
Creating Cohesion with Contrast
Contrast… what’s the big deal? I mean, look at all the beautiful homes that are monochromatic and provide an incredible zen feeling due to the lack of contrast. Why would we want to break up that peaceful aesthetic by introducing contrast?
Why Landscape Design is Important to Interiors & Architecture
When doing an interior site visit, it is not unusual for our team to walk to the windows and take in the view. While it may seem strange for our interior designers to stare out the window on an interior design visit, the truth is that it may be one of the most important considerations we make.
Understanding the Work Triangle
The work triangle consists of the three major use areas in a kitchen - sink, refrigerator, and range. The rule is that these three items should form a triangle, without interruption, and with legs of the triangle being no more than nine feet and no less than four feet. But what is it REALLY and why is it so important (or maybe not so important) to heed this long-holding guide?
Full Home Design: Foundation to Furnishings
Vashon Island is a magical place to live, and many people dream of building a home here. What we don’t dream about when we dream of relocation, is the realization that our existing furnishings don’t work, or that there aren’t enough or the right furnishings for the new home. And, the furnishings that DO work need to be located, understood as to where they should live and how to best use existing items in a new space.
Ensuring Communication Between Designer and Builder
We often hear from clients that communication is a concern based on horror stories or past experiences they’ve had. This is not due to a lack of trying, it’s a challenge of expectations and what expectations are realistic vs. those that are not, as well as communicating those expectations!
Creating a Space to Retire on Vashon Island
As of 2014, we were one of the top 10 dreamy places to retire according to Huffington Post. It’s not surprising, really. We have a lovely small community. A trip to the grocery store usually means a hug from a friend or a familiar smile and wave. The natural environment here is blissful.
Freestanding tubs - What To Consider
Freestanding bathtubs are stunning. We see them on the covers of magazines and posted all over Instagram (with low-hanging pendants and chandeliers - another topic of concern), and we are seeing so many homes pull out those tried and true alcove tubs to replace them with the lovely freestanding tub for the experience of soaking.
Let’s be honest though, how much are we thinking about that bathing experience and what surrounds this experience? There are many reasons people get freestanding tubs, and many reasons why maybe it's just not worth it.
Choosing Your Home Designer
Style, Services, or Cost – which aspect is best to pay attention to when choosing a home designer? We are here to help.
These topics cover the questions we are most frequently asked during our introductory meeting and each one of them is important, though one may be more important or less important depending on the project.
Counter Selection Tips
There are so many options out there for amazing and wonderful countertops. How does one choose?! We have you covered. Take a look at the features and brief descriptions of many of the most commonly used counter materials to make your decision wisely.
Our Dream Project
Clients have come to us many times with comments like, “I’m not sure if this is something you’d even be interested in,” and others that boast about the multiple quick-flip properties they assume we would be thrilled to take on. In actuality, those assumptions are usually far from the truth.
Creating A Symphony: Designers As Conductors
As designers, we were taught how to do niche, trade-specific drawings, not only because we are expected to create them for technical understanding, but also to be able to coordinate all of them systematically and converse intelligently with the highly-trained specialists who develop the physical aspects of our projects.