Category: design commentary

Categories
design commentary

Plants Deer Don’t Like to Eat

landscape design deer tolerant plants

There are a wide range of deer tolerant plants to choose from.

landscape design deer tolerant plants

Sylvan Gardens Landscape Contractors of Ingomar, PA help clients solve the problem of wanting to support the local wildlife but without their precious garden plants becoming delicious treats for deer.

There are more and more deer in suburban gardens due to an extreme loss of habitat due to development, and the loss of predators who move out when people move in. 

When choosing deer resistant plants consider placement as well. Plants that deer don’t like the smell or taste of can serve as a perimeter of sorts. 

Some herbs are especially effective at keeping deer at bay such as heavy edge plantings of rosemary and sage. Both plants are beautiful and sage has showy flowers for many months of the year. There are lots more choices featured in their article.

Use native plants that deer don't like, instead of exotics that contribute to habitat loss.

Here are a few excepts from their list of deer resistant plants…

“As the pressures of habitat loss and urban sprawl continue to press into formerly wild areas, homeowners increasingly find that deer are a persistent presence in the landscape. “

“Selective planting can be a great alternative to unsightly fencing and expensive repellants. Lucky for homeowners, there is a wide range of deer-tolerant plantings that fit any range of uses or spaces in the landscape. When combined with seasonal fencing and repellants, a deer-tough landscape can be created for any home.”

“Boxwood are small shrubs with extremely dense foliage that are often used for hedging or small focal points. They are able to tolerate heavy pruning and can be formed into shapes and are commonly used in formal landscaping. “

Native plants provide more habitat and nutrition than non-natives. Consult your local Native Plant Society, or Wildlife Federation group and see which are best for your area. Native plants are easier to maintain, and well-suited to the particulars of your local weather. 

Visit the post to see their full list of deer tolerant plants and trees they’ve featured. Image credit: image from Sylvan Garden’s post. 

more journal entries...

Have beautiful design work you'd like us to share? Check out our design community.

See the Magic
Categories
design commentary

Luxury Styling Ideas for Airbnb

luxury airbnb style

Airbnb styling demands extra attention to detail and cues from the industry's best.

luxury airbnb style

Pure Interior Design of Boise, ID works with online and in person clients looking to update an existing Airbnb or freshly style a new acquisition.

Airbnb rental is a highly competitive business in most areas, so it’s imperative that your design encourages clicks and bookings. 

Professional photography and vignettes including seating, sleeping and dining options help someone imagine themselves in your space. 

The most important thing is to make sure your own design likes and dislikes don’t mislead you into creating a space that travelers don’t book. Using a professional to pick finishes and furnishings gives you up to the minute style advantages, and can pay you back many times over in extra bookings.

Unique amenities, fanciful extras, and freshness set the stage for luxury travel.

Here are a few excepts from their trends update…

“Create a wine rack area with the caption: take one, leave one. Welcome your guests with your favorite bottle of wine and encourage them to leave their favorite bottle in return. Over the years, your wine collection will grow while your rental becomes known for its unique experience.”

“When styling your rental, think about making it a unique experience rather than just another rental.”

“Let the location of your Airbnb lead the way.  If your property is located near the beach, choose a calming, cool color palette.  If your property is located in a remote area, a color scheme that is warm and inviting will appeal to your renters. “

When styling an Airbnb think back to your best vacations. What stood out, what made you feel like a luxury traveler? Look up lots of other luxury spaces and emulate themes that resonate with your idea of the perfect getaway.

Visit their post for a full list of luxury airbnb styling thoughts. Image credit: image from Pure Interior’s post. 

more journal entries...

Have beautiful design work you'd like us to share? Check out our design community.

See the Magic
Categories
design commentary

Don’t Miss These Architectural Trends

architectural trends

New materials, sustainability and biomimicry lead design trends.

architectural trends

studioTECHNE Architects of Cleveland, OH are well-versed in the design of public and private spaces with a focus on unique solutions for schools, churches, libraries and cultural institutions. 

The most important architectural design trends point to the need to work with the changing environment, and draw from natural but sustainable resources and solutions.

Architects can use emerging technology like virtual reality immersion to create powerful visual experiences for their clients. 

Large format 3D printing offers unique cost savings, lower site impact, and energy efficiencies. Collaboration partnerships with universities, and anthropologists bring new insights and enhance diversity.

Combining more than one architecture industry trend extracts the most value.

Here are a few excepts from their trends update…

“ICON has recently 3D printed a 100 home neighborhood in Austin Texas, reducing the cost and making resilient energy-efficient homes with less construction waste”

“Mixed Reality and Virtual Reality enhance our ability to communicate our design concepts and the spatial experience of our buildings. “

“Biomimicry is a method of solving human challenges by learning and imitating the strategies in nature. Exploration Architecture utilizes computational design to imitate nature and rethink our use of energy and building resources. Integrating natural systems that have evolved over millions of years to adapt to the planet creates innovation and positive impacts as we move to a carbon-neutral future.”

New projects and updates to existing footprints are a chance to embrace new architectural and planning resources, alternative material, technological solutions, and a new spirit of collaboration between public and private institutions to create more human, inclusive spaces.

Visit their post to read more details on what to expect. Image credit: image from studioTECHNE’s post. 

more journal entries...

Have beautiful design work you'd like us to share? Check out our design community.

See the Magic
Categories
design commentary

Hardscaping Defines and Enhances Outdoor Living

landscape design hardscape ideas boschs holland mi

When you're considering hardscaping elements choose wisely.

landscape design hardscape ideas boschs holland mi

Boschs Landscaping of Holland, MI offers expert advice on commercial and residential hardscaping ideas so when they say that it’s really important to figure out your hardscaping plans before you start to plant we think that’s great advice.

Look for advice on creating a landcape plan. Michigan landscape plans require a lot of care due to extreme weather.

It’s really expensive to go back and make changes instead of figuring out the look you’d like, and how the different areas of your outdoor space will be used.

Whether updating or adding sidewalks, a firepit or outdoor kitchen, a driveway, or planting beds, take a look at the big picture.

Hardscaping ideas and landscaping planning should work in tandem.

Here are a few excepts from the post that might help you decide the best hardscape projects for your home…

“Remember that these are upgrades that will continue to provide you joy and happiness for many years. There’s no reason not to get started now, enjoy them for what remains of the season, and then have them already in place for spring.”

“No need to bring the party back indoors after the sun goes down! Just grab a jacket, light the fire, grab some hot dogs and marshmallows, and enjoy the warmth, glow, and soothing sounds.”

“When we install any patio or walkway, we’ll consider issues such as drainage, weather protection, and other factors. We want to make sure your new project not only looks good, but can stand up to the…elements.”

Think about the outdoors as an expansion of your living space; with lots of ways increase your square footage, provide more enjoyment of your home, and even add new recreational opportunities.

Visit their post to read more details on what to expect. Image credit: image from Boschs post. 

more journal entries...

Have beautiful design work you'd like us to share? Check out our design community.

See the Magic
Categories
design commentary

Have You Heard of a DIY Design Plan?

interior design design steps sarah and sons portland me

Well thought out design plans can include valuable insights and details.

interior design design steps sarah and sons portland me

Sarah & Sons of Portland, ME recently posted about their “collection design” plan. Homeowners interested in saving money on interior design can get a good solid plan packed with expertise for a fraction of having a designer on site doing the project management and site work. 

Questions to ask…

Are you trying to save money on your design project in Portland or wherever you live?

Or is having a design professional managing your upgrade more important?

Their post offers a good opportunity to see what’s typically included in a comprehensive DIY design plan so you can decide which option fits you better.

Your DIY design plan can be basic or include lots of extras.

Here are a few excepts from the post that might help you decide if you would benefit from a DIY design plan…

“Many people love interior design and have both the time and interest to shop for their new furnishings; others need more budget-friendly support.”

“Clients anywhere in the US can work with me to develop a Collection for their home, thanks to a well organized process that is implemented virtually. “

“…we’ll develop a floor plan to optimize room flow, delineate furniture placement, and develop lighting schemes. Sarah understands the important role existing furnishings play in connecting your new space with treasured memories. “

Decorating and furnishing a new space or updating an old one can be fun, or a bit stressful, depending on your own knowledge, time and budget. Partnering with a designer who can guide you and offer expert insights is fun, and still allows you creative and budget flexibility.

Visit their post to read more details on what to expect.
Image credit: image from Sarah & Sons post. 

more journal entries...

Have beautiful design work you'd like us to share? Check out our design community.

See the Magic
Categories
design commentary

Artful Staircase Solutions Add Wow Factor

architect staircase ideas asheville nc sansel architects

Open staircases, modern staircases, and a bit of elegant old school design options.

architect staircase ideas asheville nc sansel architects

These interesting stairway ideas are straight from the impressive portfolio of Samsel Architects of Asheville, NC. They work in commercial design and are well known for their visible additions to the Asheville scene, but also specialize in bringing unique design to residential settings.  

There are lots of staircase ideas that you won’t see unless you have a custom build. A staircase can be more than a way to traverse levels; instead think of it as having the potential to add artistic element to your design. 

Consider the view entering your home, how see-through you’d like the stairwell to be, whether safety features are more important than open stairs design options, types of materials, and how your new stairway will reflect and compliment the rest of your home’s design.

Staircase design requires thoughtful planning and needs assessment.

If you’re thinking about changing your staircase or starting from scratch, reviewing their expert insights is a great place to begin. Here are a few excepts…

“Exterior materials are brought into this two-story space to reinforce the simple form of the house and indoor-outdoor concepts. The two-story window wall perfectly frames the wood and steel staircase and provides breathtaking mountain views.”

“…framed by a two-story window that acts like a display case for the floating sculptural stair inside. This transparent staircase makes an elegant ascent against a backdrop of stone. Each tread is lit by an LED that not only provides ease of use but also a gives the foyer an enchanting glow at night.”

It’s fun to look online at lots of outdoor kitchen examples, but the best thing you can do is talk to an expert. They’ll ask important questions like how many people do you want to be able to serve, do you want it visible from your kitchen window or some other spot, what kind of style do you envision, and so on.

Visit their article to read more details on what to expect.
Image credit: image from Samsel Architects post. 

more journal entries...

Have beautiful design work you'd like us to share? Check out our design community.

See the Magic
Categories
design commentary

What Does it Cost for an Outdoor Kitchen?

landscape design outdoor kitchen kd landscaping chicago IL

Luxury outdoor kitchens come in all price tags.

landscape design outdoor kitchen kd landscaping chicago IL

KD Landscaping of Chicago, IL builds lots of outdoor kitchens for clients. The cost of each depends on the site, the equipment, and the accompanying patio and landscape design’s complexity. 

Think about how you want to use your new outdoor kitchen. How many guests? Formal or casual? Views or tucked away and cozy?

It’s fun to look online at lots of outdoor kitchen examples, but the best thing you can do is talk to an expert. They’ll ask important questions like how many people do you want to be able to serve, do you want it visible from your kitchen window or some other spot, what kind of style do you envision, and so on.

Should you have an outdoor oven or just grill? Outdoor refrigerator?

If you’re planning an outdoor kitchen their article is a good place to start. Here are a few excepts…

“…a grill is usually a larger appliance in an outdoor kitchen. And there are so many types of grills out there to choose from today. Depending on what you’re looking for, you could spend anywhere from $2,500 to $20,000 on the grill alone.”

“If you know you’ll be cooking outdoors – rain or shine – you may also want to add the cost of a pavilion or pergola to help give you some shelter from rain, wind, and sun throughout the year. This will increase your outdoor kitchen costs, but it will also increase your enjoyable time outside in your new space.”

Visit their article to read more details on what to expect.
Image credit: image from KD Landscaping’s post. 

more journal entries...

Have beautiful design work you'd like us to share? Check out our design community.

See the Magic
Categories
design commentary

Countertop Type Pros and Cons

interior design countertops avery and home cummings ga

Should you choose hardwood counters, granite, quartzite?

interior design countertops avery and home cummings ga

Tires of granite or wondering if there are other equally durable options that would dress up your kitchen style? You’re not alone. There are so many practical countertop options that Avery and Home of Cummings, GA prepared a quick overview of the top pros and cons of 5 countertop types.  

What’s the difference between Quartzite and Quartz? How hard are those gorgeous hardwood tops to maintain?

A great option is two choose two and mix them. One style for the cabinet top solution, and a complimentary but different choice for a kitchen island or bar area. Sometimes the best thing to do when looking at countertops is to go see them in person. Good places to see the rarer options are custom home builder models, home shows, and non-big box purveyors. 

There are so many kitchen countertop options.

If you have questions like these and want to see some great design choices (including the ubiquitous granite option lol) here are a few excepts…

“Quartzite is actually a natural stone that begins as sandstone, and under the natural process of heat and pressure fuses with quartz crystals to form quartzite.”

“Butcher block…a beautiful, durable, and cost-efficient countertop option.”

“Dekton is made from a combination of quartz, porcelain, and glass from the company Cosentino. It’s not porous in the slightest and is more durable than any other countertop.“

Visit their site to see the pros and cons of each of the 5 countertop types featured. Image credit: image from Avery and Home’s post. 

more journal entries...

Have beautiful design work you'd like us to share? Check out our design community.

See the Magic
Categories
design commentary

Iconic Movie Houses

architect sherman oaks ca whipple russel

Have you seen these movies and their star quality homes?

architect sherman oaks ca whipple russel

Whipple Russell of Sherman Oaks, CA took a look at the real history and locations of some jaw dropping movie houses. We love this idea.

Movies play a really big role in allowing us to wonder and imagine what it would be like to live in the worlds they build.

Instead of a fabricated movie set, when a real home is featured in a film it adds a level of authenticity and richness. It’s fun to look at the houses from well-known films and think about what it would be like to live in the houses that are such important characters.

This includes a lot of wonderful opportunities to gawk at high-end design and unusual settings. 

Staircase design requires thoughtful planning and needs assessment.

L.A. Confidential, Pulp Fiction, and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, are just a small sampling of what they found…

“Lovell House sits on a steep hillside in Los Feliz, Los Angeles…featured in L.A. Confidential and Beginners”

“This contemporary LA home…built in 1960…was featured in Pulp Fiction.”

“…on a steeply sloped hillside lot in the Hollywood Hills, the Chemosphere is a disk-like octagon that floats on top of a 30 foot vertical column.”

Visit their site for a full list of movies, homes, and descriptions. Image credit: image from Whipple Russel’s post. 

more journal entries...

Have beautiful design work you'd like us to share? Check out our design community.

See the Magic