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Design a house around this...

4/1/2022

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Do you remember the commercial where 2 clients present an architect with a faucet and say "Design a house around this!"?

What a challenge! It can be done. Many times I take inspiration from things around me in order to design a space in someone's home. This next picture are favorite items from a home owner gathered together for the purpose of getting to know her before designing a kitchen and dining area.
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What’s important to the home owner?
History and stories from the past
Sharing time together with friends
Warmth
Unique conversation pieces
Functional, Elegant, Friendly
Imagination
Clean lines with pops of silly
The view rules - Nature, trees

This was the jumping off point for creating a color and texture scheme.
fabric samples
color palette and theme
Next came a shopping trip for accessories to further the inspiration and set a direction for the new design. These new items tie back to the homeowner's favorite things and her story by bringing out her whimsical and dramatic nature in an updated and classy style. 
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My Recommendations for her kitchen design

Countertop – Tea Leaf Silestone
Ceilings – Because they are lower than she'd like, use Ivory Lace (SW7013) on ceiling
Cabinetry - Because there are white appliances – use Ivory Lace (SW7013)
To bring in the bling – change out the cabinet doors to shaker style or other raised panel that allows you to add picture frame molding in a coordinating metal.
Optionally, use Spicy Hue (SW6342) on lower cabinets to weight the room and warm it up.
Walls – Bonsai Tint (SW6436) or Haven (SW6437):  These are light greens which will complement the green outside her windows.
Backsplash – This can be a party!  Think - Masquerade Ball - Harlequin patterned tile using Spicy Hue and a green to match the countertop, plus black and white. Remember her Mardi Gras Mask?

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Here's my recommendation for a classy place to dine after whipping up a meal or having a cocktail in the new kitchen. I'd skip the mauve chairs in this inspiration picture. What a beautiful table adding history and character while comfy chairs allow diners to sit for lasting conversation after an enjoyable meal!
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More work will need to be done to bring the more mid-century modern kitchen design in line with the traditional dining area (or vice versa) as this design gets refined. Getting to know a client is key. Designing around their favorite things is fun for me as well as the clients as the details come to the surface and they see my interpretations are as unique as they are.
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How to create a cozy stylish corner

3/18/2022

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When deciding on furnishings for a space, there is often an unused corner that begs for an inviting seating arrangement that will serve as a spot to relax or as additional seating. Have you ever wondered how to choose the right furniture and accessories to bring a corner to life? Continue reading for a step by step approach that is full proof in pulling together an inviting look that everyone will be fighting to call their own.
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Here are the building blocks to get you started:
1) Pick a chair and table that match in style and compliment the style of the rest of your room.

2) A
dd a lamp that picks up the main color of the chair. Or pick one that is neutral and has a metallic or wood accent or gives you a color to use in picking the rest of your accessories.

3) A
dd a pillow and/or a throw for color variation with at least one color you have already included in your vignette. If your palette is only neutrals at this point, make it a colorful choice.

4) 
Add art and accessories that complete the picture. Make sure they give you joy and follow these tips to ensure they fit the space.
 - If you have angles, pick wall art with organic materials and/or shapes.
 - If your pillow reveals a theme, go with it - nature always offers options to enhance a space.
 - Think about holidays or seasons coming up and pick accessories that give a nod to that theme.

Remember that art and accessories are typically meant to be changed up over the course of time. If you love it, use it. If you grow tired of it change it out. Most of all have fun. That is the key ingredient to bringing in your personality so that not only will you love it, but all those who love you will be able to appreciate it as well.
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When is it right to downsize?

2/12/2022

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Photo by Ivan Samkov from Pexels
Every now and then as an interior designer I'm asked for advice on how, when, and/or whether to downsize. At any age, this can be a difficult decision.  Often times it is the adult children helping their senior parents work through that decision. Lydia Chan has provided some advice in the following article written for my blog this month. For additional information and resources especially for caregivers of Alzheimer patients please visit her website at https://alzheimerscaregiver.net/. The article itself has several links to great information! Thanks, Lydia.
Home Downsizing Decisions for Seniors

One of the hardest decisions you can make in life is downsizing to a smaller home, especially if you’ve lived in your house your entire life. If you’re thinking about downsizing, there are plenty of factors to consider — and they may not all be easy to resolve.

Should You Sell or Rent Your Home?
Selling your home is a great way to liquidate an asset and supplement your income, but it’s not without its drawbacks. For example, if you’re selling in an overheated market, you might find that you aren’t getting as much money out of your home as you thought. Plus, moving can be difficult and time-consuming — and who wants to do all that packing?

Brenda Szarek, Designer/Owner of Autumn Light Interiors, has advice for home owners planning to sell in the next 5 years so you can get as much out of your home as possible now.

If you're looking for a passive income, you might decide to rent out your house instead. This allows you to make money off of your property while living elsewhere, such as in an independent living or assisted living community. You can even cut back on costs by downsizing into a smaller space and renting out your old one.

Keeping Your Home in the Family
You may have been planning to pass your house onto the next generation in your family and move into an apartment after you retire, but how can you be sure that one of your kids will want to take it over? One solution is to rent out a home in a location that makes sense for their life and see if they like it. If they do, then you can discuss transferring ownership at some point. Another solution is to transfer ownership immediately upon your retirement.

Is it the right time to move?
One of the reasons why you might be slow to downsize is because you’re afraid of losing your home's investment value. In truth, selling your home can be an ideal option when it comes to downsizing, especially if you have a lot of equity in the house or it's paid off. When working out how much you can make from selling, you'll need to factor in Realtor fees, your outstanding mortgage balance, and average house prices in your city. If you’re a senior and considering moving, but aren’t sure if it’s time, ask yourself these questions: Are your children grown? Is your spouse deceased or do you live apart from them? Do you feel lonely in your home? Does your place no longer suit your needs and desires? Have you had a recent health scare that has shaken up your life (think heart attack or stroke)? If you answered yes to some of these, it may be time to consider downsizing.

Get a Better Night Sleep
Whether you decide to sell, rent out, or keep it in your family, make decisions about downsizing with clarity and confidence. And that translates into less stress, as well as better sleep at night. Visit Autumn Light Interiors, based in Verona, Wisconsin for creative interior design solutions for your changing lifestyle.

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Focusing on your space and storage needs

1/17/2022

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Let's start the new year out with two topics that when addressed can bring you a sense of calm and order - Creating a focal point and practical, beautiful storage ideas.

I set out to write up all my ideas on these topics, but decided no one really wants to reinvent the wheel, including me!  So here is a link to a brief article on finding a focal point which is the first step.
I'd like to add to that list! Adding a great light fixture over a counter, a bed, a desk, a seating area, or in your hallway can provide that eye catching item that is both functional and fun. Here is my collection of lighting that I hope inspires you.
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And now for your storage needs! I love a good IKEA hack, don't you?
Take a look at these ideas from House Beautiful. 

I'll be keeping my eyes out for unique storage vessels.
​I love the variety of basketry shown in this pic.
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Stay warm and, as usual, I'd love to hear your ideas on the topics presented.
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Room Re-Imagination! A solution for a messy outdated corner

12/22/2021

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When you have been using your space 'as is' for a long time, it can become outdated and messy. No matter what the reason you've left it that way, whether it be a lack of funds, priority, or time, it can become a surface to collect clutter rather than a destination. Let's change that by re-imagining the space using items you have in other areas of your home.
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Start by searching your home for unused items or items that you think you may want to change out and gather them into one area to see if a theme evolves. You may decide to put them right back, donate them, or move them to the space you are trying to re-imagine. Do what works for you!
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The biggest change to re-imagining a space starts with a clean up, of course. If you can start with a blank space, great! If not, look critically at each piece and imagine replacements that might be possible or pieces from other rooms that will compliment what you have. Changing out the slipcover on furniture is a quick fix. If you don't have a slipcover for an existing chair, perhaps a chair pulled in from another room will add brightness to the space. Add a cozy throw over the back of it to invite you to sit and relax.

An under utilized woven storage box from another area of the home can help keep clothing, books, DVDs, etc. hidden away, but close at hand when needed. Add "bun" feet to the storage box to raise it to table level. They can be purchased online or from your local big box hardware store and stained to match other décor.  Add a tray on top to corral books, a vase of flowers (or other plant), and to provide a level surface for your favorite beverage. 

​Add a light over art (not shown) to eliminate the need for a floor or table lamp which both take up valuable surface space. Finally, add a softly textured area rug for comfort and a touch of luxury.
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Room Re-Imagination! is a service I offer to help home owners and renters get a designer look without purchasing new furnishings and décor. Check out my In-home services web page for more info.
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Cozy Vintage Cottage Style

10/31/2021

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Bring the warmth and timelessness of Cozy Vintage Cottage décor to your space. Add texture by layering in colors from nature (moss, mushroom, and wood tones) along with plants, brass accents, and soft furnishings. Crown molding in a dark stain frames the room just like you would frame a picture capturing a special moment in time. Repeat patterns for a sense of familiarity as shown in the curves in the chairs and side tables, basket, wall art, and floor lamp. Also repeated are the squares in the boxy check of the valance, the chair structure, and the art over the mantel. Finally, cottage décor would not be the same without adding whimsy as I did with our brass duck sculptures enjoying the warmth of the fire! 


Shop the look by heading to my Shop It! page.
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How to achieve a Rustic Modern look

10/21/2021

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Texture is key to creating a rustic look. Use natural textures of varying woods to make the room warm and inviting. Large scale art and bold colors add a modern touch. Soft fabrics on the upholstery and the faux fur throw bring a bit of luxe playing nicely with the underlying rustic mood of the space.. What a great place to read a book or have a conversation!
Shop this look by heading to my Shop It! page.
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The end of R.O.Y. G. B.I.V?  Hardly!

8/6/2021

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PHOTOGRAPH BY RICH REID
I've been exploring the meaning of color for interior design by giving you small snippets of decor in separate blog posts for each color of the rainbow since February 2021. I've gone through Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, and Blue.  Today, let's explore the last two colors which often get confused - Indigo and Violet.
Dining with a deep violet/purple and teal decor
Soft smoky grays go well with indigo and violet
Canvas with words and touches of indigo and violet
Some of the confusion between the colors is explained with a quote from this article BY OBINNA APRIL 9, 2021:
"The color indigo and violet are very close to each other and it is easy to mistake one for the other. This arises from the fact that in the ROYGBIV color arrangement, they follow each other after blue. In fact, the deep color indigo that a computer screen can produce, is also called blue violet.
Both colors appear to be inseparable and there are hues of indigo that are closer to violet than they are to indigo. Additionally, the imperial blue color is regarded as indigo as well. Indigo really threads a thin line of existence that has led many in past to call for it to be erased and just be left with blue violet color."

What do these colors mean for our interiors?

Impressive Interior Design states "...indigo color speaks to inward examination and self-reflection. It is shading for calm consideration."
InteriorDezine gives us a large list of adjectives for violet/purple: "Well Balanced, Restful, Promotes Peace And Calm, Serene, Regal, Dignified, Elegance, Day Dreaming, Spiritual, Royalty, Supremacy, Quietness, Reverence, Lowers Blood Pressure, Quietens Overactive Glands And Organs, Internal Dialogue, Philosophical, Lateral Thinking, Creativity."
Here is my inspiration mood board showing a blend of indigo and violet with furnishings and art that can make your home beautiful, restful, serene...oh so many good things!
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Deadline for offer sent to newsletter recipients is 9/30/2021.
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Planning to sell your home? What you can do now.

7/11/2021

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Are you thinking of moving in the next 5 years? Does your home need a long awaited upgrade to appeal to today's buyers? Why wait! Start the process now so you can enjoy it before you sell.
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Start by assessing where your home needs the most help. Curb appeal should be your primary focus along with decluttering no matter how much money you have to invest into transitioning your home to be sold. Assuming you are not planning to move for a few years, here are some ideas to set you in motion on the interior depending on your budget:

Minimal funds
  • Declutter (preferably at least twice a year - once in the early spring and again in early fall)
  • Do something each year - paint, refresh window treatments, save for big ticket items such as new flooring if your existing floors are worn, damaged, or outdated.

Enough funds for a simple refresh
  • Declutter (this one will be a constant for all budgets!) Again - at least twice a year.
  • Paint, refresh window treatments, (and, yes again) save for those big ticket items.
  • Take a look at bathrooms - are countertops outdated, is the tile in bad shape, is the plumbing in need of repairs? Pick one (or all if you can afford it) and start there. A full bathroom remodel is not a simple refresh, but having plumbing in the best shape possible is an investment you need to make. 
  • If your cabinetry in your bathrooms and kitchen are in good shape, but the color or stain is outdated, consider getting the doors replaced, the cabinetry repainted, and/or changing out the door and drawer pulls.

A stash of funds for a serious upgrade can be available if you dip into your home's equity or you've been saving for an upgrade for some time
  • As above, declutter and plan for a project each year.
  • Bring in a realtor now to provide you with information on what is selling in your neighborhood. Ask about the types of flooring and countertops people want and what bells and whistles are expected whether it be a pot filler over the stove, smart wiring, or a home theater, this will give you ideas on what to invest in within your current home.
  • Is Luxury Vinyl Plank or hardwood flooring in your budget? These are great investments to consider. Continuity of flooring throughout a home will help esthetically as well as provide for safety eliminating the need for threshold transitions. 
  • Bathroom and kitchen upgrades will return the most for your remodel investment when you sell providing the materials and labor are the best quality you can afford. To save money, keep your plumbing in the same place and don't have walls torn down unless there are serious problems with the current functionality of the space.

​Here is where an interior designer can help
  • There are many different kinds of flooring for every budget, but this can end up being costly without the right planning. With minimal funds, enlist the help of a designer early to learn what materials and price points are available and to help you develop a plan of attack given your timeline.
  • Developing a color scheme that is cohesive, interesting, and timeless takes a skill of which designers have been trained. Color theory, lighting and textural impacts, how to ensure that your interior color tells the right story for your home while you continue living there and when you sell are a few skills designers exercise every day.
  • Window treatments can quickly become outdated. The right treatment will help you protect your upholstery and flooring from sun damage and provide the right amount of privacy when needed. Your designer can help you with fabric choices, style choices (drapes, shades, blinds, etc), and how technology can help you enjoy the ease of light control with the touch of a button - also can be a great selling point.
  • Tips on organizing what you have and reimagining your space with your existing furnishings is top on my list of favorite ways I can help. Solving problems is my specialty. I can provide a new layout, find uses for items in different rooms, provide a focal point when there is none (great for those sale pictures), and help you jump start preparations for getting your home in shape for future buyers enabling you to enjoy it more as you await the moment it goes on sale.
  • A designer can help you determine whether an idea is trendy or timeless. It is important to stay neutral in some areas while adding character and excitement in others. You'll want to draw in buyers of all kinds and present a place that doesn't scream FIX ME!
  • Designers help make choices easier by narrowing down materials and furnishings that meet your needs and set a style that you and future buyers will love.
  • Whether hiring a designer by the hour or for an entire project, you will save time and money in the long run by seeking the opinion of a professional whose job it is to make your home beautiful, functional, and inviting.  
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The best of R.O.Y. G. B.I.V. in my opinion!

7/9/2021

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There is no more of a serene, calming color than blue in my opinion. Okay, maybe green, but I'm talking about blue today! This color is so easy to work with as an accent, in a monochromatic scheme, or as a statement color throughout your home. From the lightest of blues to shades of gray blue to the darkest of blues, there is a shade or tint that conveys every mood. There are products in every form that will help you pull blue into your interiors (and exteriors). Fabric, wall coverings, appliances, cabinetry, cookware, furnishings, lighting, art, ...you name it!
In the last 2 years, blue has been the basis for the color of the year as named by a few top color organizations in one shade or another.
color, interior design, autumn light interiors, blue

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interior design, color, blue, autumn light interiors
Norwegian Night by Valspar - 2021
If you haven't been convinced this color is soothing, click on this link to be mesmerized by Valspar's interpretation of the sound of blue - CLICK HERE.
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    Author

    I, Brenda Szarek, am the founder of Autumn Light Interiors. I have immersed myself in home design and problem solving for years and have creative solutions for all kinds of interior design dilemmas. I hope you enjoy my tips, tricks, trends, and inspiration to help you find your way to a well-designed, comfortable, and functional home you can be excited to live in and welcome others within.

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