Creating a Soulful Environment in your Home

“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.” ~William Morris

Moreau Designs created this space at the Designer Showhouse for Junior League of Hartford . It’s a good example of a nourishing and calming space that you can create in your home. Photography: Sandy Lisella

Creating a connection in your home with living spaces that nourish your sense of well being is within reach. We live in a day and age of constant on the go attitudes and busy is the new normal. What happens when we slow down? Or do you slow down? How does this relate to your home environment? I’m going to give you some ideas to incorporate key elements to reduce stress and allow you to relax fully in your home.

Artisan made pottery by Vicente Garcia Studios sits atop a custom designed bench top by Tiger Lily Furniture and a base fabricated by Shelby Barnhardt Studios

So what are the key elements?

1. The use of Living and natural things~This is an easy one,understanding the concept that plants do cleanse our air as well as give us a sense of fresh beginnings and beauty. It is also a movement that is trending right now, called Biophilic Design, which is the practice of bringing natural elements inside. It includes not only plants, but wood, stone and water. You may notice this trend in commercial spaces, but lately I have several requests for use in private residences.

2. Soothing Colors and bridging elements ~ I cannot stress enough the importance of the pyschology of color…It will make the space more calming when you also pair what is outside the window with a color that compliments or is in direct relation. I used blue that not only ties in with the wallpaper, but it is a reflection of the water outside the sun room windows. Elements that you can bring indoors like this indirect nod to the birds that inhabit this property, by using the wallpaper, on the ceiling-birds in flight and on the wall peacock plumes helps ground the space and create that connection.

3. Texture/softness ~ It is soothing for the eye to have these elements in a space as your eye doesn’t settle on one particular thing. Texture also encompasses the sense of touch. The sisal rug, linen panels and color palette that is harmonious are valuable in a space that is great for decompressing.

4. Light ~Natural diffused light is the best, but when you can’t have that you can mimic it with artificial lighting. Many lighting companies have bulbs that can create a natural looking light.

5. Open and clean spaces ~ Clutter is definitely a distraction and having spaces that you edit relentlessly is really allowing you to think and function properly.

6. Unplug the world ~No phones, computers, radios etc. Probably the hardest thing to do is put down that phone, but it gives you a moment to recharge.

7. Scent ~ the power of a beautiful fragrance, it can be a great way to relax. Whether it’s a candle, incense or diffused oil you can create this all important layer for the senses.

This living wall was created in the showhouse by using succulents. I wanted to create a natural flow by predetermining the design on a piece of tracing paper that was then set underneath for the horticulturist , Nancy Butler to mimic the curve. Wallpaper: Relativity Textiles

A great example of incorporating natural elements with this pottery and air plants/moss. Notice the water like pattern and coloration of pottery. I also like that there is a very natural element of wabi sabi with the stitching of the cracked pottery.

Looking outside these windows, this spectacular view of the pond is brought inside with the color and shapes incorporated in this space. The bench serves two purposes, for display of plants and a quick meditation area by adding pillows underneath.

Whether you have a full room or a dedicated corner in your home for unwinding, it can prove to be helpful in overall health and productivity in your life. I would love to answer any questions you have in the comments below!

Blessings,

Jennifer

How Remodeling your Kitchen can be like Pairing Fine Wines with Food

A kitchen remodel can be your costliest remodel in your home.  Why leave it up to chance to create a cohesive design and plan for your kitchen?  Knowing the perfect pairing for your kitchen remodel will save you undue stress and time.

First thing to consider: what is the overall feel of your space?  It could translate into color and tones,  a specific style, or a time period, ( which is appropriate for older historic homes.)    

Being careful not to incorporate trends on fixed surfaces will ensure that your kitchen won't look dated.   Fixed surfaces include: countertops,  cabinets, backsplashes and flooring.   You're saying wait Jennifer, that's everything,  right?  ..no it isn't because easily changed things like stools, lighting,  hardware, and window treatments are the remainder that can bear trends.  

I was fortunate enough recently to attend the KBIS (Kitchen and Bath Industry Show) in Las Vegas with designhounds as an Influencer.   There I got to see trends and new introductions.  See my previous blog post about 5 trends for kitchens and baths for 2019.  I was also invited by one of our sponsors, Caeserstone to the New American Home located in Henderson. 

DesignHound’s Pack assemble!! Photo by: Jeffery A. Davis Photography I’m on the far right…the redhead with a sass factor of 10+

Here is our fabulous group Designhounds at the home (minus a few).   Can I say spectacular?  Views of the city of Las Vegas, infinity pool, a home that opened up completely to the desert patio.   A cool surprise was the models that they painted to represent their finishes.   

I literally had a freak out moment when she opened her eyes!! This is Caeserstone’s Noble grey on top of the fireplace and Vanilla Noir for the hearth, which seamlessly runs outside on the patio.

The fireplace extended outside along with many of the countertops and bars. Photo: Jeffrey A. Davis Photography

Ok, now we are over the shock and amazement. Here’s a case study. Let’s look how the perfect pairing can work with appliances and countertop finishes…. another sponsor, Thermador , had appliances in The New American Home by Caeserstone. It totally makes sense in this scenario as the kitchen as a whole was very streamlined. The refrigerator, oven range and hood all go with this style of kitchen. Notice the clean lines that are repeated in the countertop from the appliances.

The New American Home in Henderson Nevada by Caeserstone, photos by: Jeffrey A. Davis Photography

Like Sonny and Cher, Peanut Butter and Jelly, they just work together. The new finishes are reminiscent of nature, stone and concrete, and paired with the appliances they share similar attributes. In the above photo, Caeserstone has installed the Montblanc countertop in a waterfall edge and it looks very sophisticated and modern. Notice the different countertop materials being used throughout this home, it still creates a cohesive look, because the tones and style are close in nature. Thermador Home has some spectacular offerings for some nice looking wall ovens, ranges and hoods that pair nicely with this aesthetic.

Thermador’s professional collection offers: steam, speed and convection in one!!

The cabinetry and appliances are on the same plane and therefore look like a seamless design. The appliances are still visible, but they don’t look so stand alone. This makes it very appealing for modern interiors. We are getting away from the traditional idea of the kitchen as a very utilitarian space and it is now part of the design of the home. Like you see below, the Thermador wine refrigerator fits in nicely in this cabinet.

Thermador’s wine columns are home connect enabled. They can be controlled remotely and can even give you the perfect wine pairing…how’s that for smart??

This is just one example of a beautiful pairing. Both Caeserstone and Thermador Home offer different lines that work together for any style. You can easily take these countertop finishes and appliances and pair them with a traditional kitchen. The cabinetry in this case would be more of a decorative element. Thinking about all your elements in your kitchen this way creates that cohesive look throughout your space. This home is a perfect example of attention to detail and pairings that work. Speaking of pairings, my Pinot Noir is calling my name…and it’s not going to drink itself.

Cheers!!,

Jennifer

Closet Envy is Real

I’m writing this in severe envy…..I just got back from The Kitchen and Bath Industry Show in Vegas and realized my closet isn’t cutting it. One of the vignettes at Wellborn Cabinets booth had me at first sight.

Do you think they would notice if I took up residence here? I mean this closet may have very well been my bedroom.

Do you see that ‘lit ‘ closet? Cue the musical, Annie’s song: “ I really think I’m going to like it here! “ The details, mirrors…circles, studs, the way the doors opened. I can’t decide what I like more? The fact that it doesn’t look like cabinetry but more like a built in or that they kinda got the whole luxury feel.

ahem…this is where all that fabulous jewelry will reside. I mean with a closet like this…that is a given.

This was so well executed that I started having a vision what my dream closet would look like? This is close, but I would add a little more bling. Enter Lampsplus, they not only have lighting, but also accessories and furniture. I’ve created a board that if Wellborn Cabinets and Lampsplus had a baby this is the result…isn’t it darling?

I would have to have some kind of seating like this wingback chair from Lampsplsus. I mean who wouldn’t want to stare at this most of the day or when the kids are screaming and you need a mommy break. Door lock: check, chocolate: check, wine: double check, no really you don’t want to forget this….you get the picture. A MOM CAVE.

Lampsplus has so many unique pieces of lighting, the chandelier was a new introduction this show. I would hang 2 or 3 of these over the jewelry and accessory island….the bigger the island, the better. Ok, so I have to admit…if I’m going to all the trouble of tricking out this Mom cave, it needs one more thing:

A bar cart of course. It would just look pretty in the corner with these martini glasses. Purely decoration for the soul.

Thanks Lampsplus and Wellborn for allowing a girl to dream!!! A special thanks to Designhounds, and Veronika Eagleson from Modenus for exposing us to some great sponsors/vendors!! Now back to reality…my life is glamorous, my life is glamorous…. Hope you find yourself dreaming and planning a wonderful closet like this in your near future!!! Fairy God Mother where are you???

Blessings,

Fairy Jennifer

5 Kitchen and Bath Trends, Straight From KBIS

I literally just recovered from jet lag after attending KBIS in Las Vegas. For those of you that aren’t familiar with it, It’s the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show that takes place annually. I was told 100,000 people attended and I believe it!! I was there on tour with a lovely group of Design influencers and bloggers as part of the Designhounds KBIS tour.

So many things that I noticed on tour about the status of trends in Kitchens and Baths, here’s my take on 5 trends:

1) COLORFUL appliances, sinks and faucets. If you’re afraid of color, don’t apply. I mean every turn I took there was a bevy of interesting hues. Mainly primary colors. How to apply….not liberally like sunscreen…I would say sprinkles here and there.

My husband would totally let me do a hot pink faucet….(insert scared emoji here)

Lemon with your lemon?

2) Smart home capabilities: Think George Jetson…the future is here baby! And on top of that, a couple of new introductions that had me giddy. One being a closet that you put your clothes, blankets, stuffed animals…dog…ok, maybe not your dog, in to refresh. You can put your dry cleaning in as well. Think of the possibilities!! Carry that over into the kitchen as well with apps and the capability to program anything, anytime….Big brother are you there?

Beep, boop, beep…the future is here!

Carnival stuffed animals delight!! NO excuse to throw those out MOM. Courtesy of LG

3) Creating Environments: Showers aren’t showers anymore, they are full scale environments, capable to give you a rainforest experience rich with chroma therapy as well as music and scents. Who needs vacation?…..ummmm..me..over here. More on this in a separate blog post about the health benefits of something like this with a very cool featured product.

I just really want to know what a ‘night’ routine is????

4) Invisible appliances: I think the weirdest, most exciting thing I spotted was an induction cooktop underneath the countertop!! Now that is magic and no matter what you say, I think it’s pretty genius! This is fairly new and found a couple vendors who were offering it….I think it needs to develop and I’m pretty sure there will be more intros next year.

5) Push release cabinetry: On everything including appliances and cabinetry. Hardware need not apply.

So there you have it, 5 trends from this year’s show. Come back around to see some in depth blog posts about products that I’m featuring, including appliances, cabinets, countertops and steam showers.

Go cook something good up today!,

Jennifer