Design Connection, Inc. Interior Design

It’s no secret Granite is the most popular choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops. For that reason, many homeowners are seeking other options when updating their spaces. Other options like Glass. You want me to put WHAT in my kitchen??!! That’s right. I want you to put Glass in your kitchen. Recycled Glass, to be exact. Pour yourself a cold one and read on: 1,000 glass bottles of your favorite beverage can be recycled into one of these beautiful, durable countertops. Bottoms up!

This countertop is not Granite-it's Glass!

Recycled Glass countertops are surprisingly stronger than stone. They are also nonporous, scratch and heat resistant. Combine those priceless characteristisc with it’s versatile design options and you’ve got yourself a showstopping countertop unique to your personal style.

This glass top island by ThinkGlass! is paired perfectly with stone countertops.

Companies like ThinkGlass! have taken the idea of transparent glass countertops to a whole new level by combining their stunning pieces with LED back-lighting.  These countertops are completely customizable; from texture, shape and thickness right down to your color choice of back-lighting. Can’t commit to a color? No worries. Color wheels are also an option, controlled with a wireless remote, at that!

Now THAT'S a night-light! Photo Source: ThinkGlass!

A little paint goes a long way when it comes to designing your glass countertop. A solid color “back paint” on a glass top kitchen island blends beautifully with complimentary granite or quartz countertops; a custom painted glass countertop is a guaranteed way to showcase the colors you love in your kitchen.

Photo Source: Pinterest

Recycled Glass countertops are one of the greenest choices for your kitchen counters. Most recycled countertops are composed of at least 75% of post-consumer recycled content, which keeps material out of landfills. Because this material is made in America, the cost of transportation is drastically lower than that of Granite and the like.

Custom Design your countertop with the colors you love like these ideas from Vetrazzo. Photo Source: Pinterest

Pick your favorite colors and get creative with your secondary bathroom. This homeowner loved the color of the Skyy Vodka bottle so much that she had her bathroom counter made from it. She successfully incorporated her love of copper into this design, as well, with a floor made entirely out of pennies.

Keep in mind that Terrazzo-style counters are high-shine. Photo Source: Pinterest

When it comes to LED lighting, bathrooms are no exception. Downing Designs combined textured glass, seashells and concrete to create this beautiful floating sink. The Mother-of-Pearl and textured glass create rippling shadows when combined with flowing tap water and LEDs light embedded within the sink.

The plumbing, brackets and drains are well hidden within this Surf Sink by Downing Designs.

From granite look-a-likes to floating illuminating sinks, Recycled Glass is on the forefront of interior design. If you are thinking about remodeling your kitchen or bath, or if you need assistance choosing the perfect countertop for your space, contact the professionals at Design Connection, Inc. We offer complimentary in-studio interior design consultations and can help you with your interior design, remodeling, revamping and restyling projects big and small throughout the Kansas City metro.  What are you waiting for? Give us a call at 913-851-8776 or fill out our contact form and let’s get started on your interior design project!

Read our weekly blog by and stay updated with the latest trends in home design and decor by connecting with Design Connection, Inc. on Pinterest, Facebook, Google+, Houzz, Twitter and LinkedIn.

As an Interior Designer in Kansas City, I have made many friends over the years. One friendship I’ve forged in particular is as solid as a rock. That’s because it is a rock. Granite Rock, to be exact.

Granite countertops grace the wish lists of nearly all of my clients and it’s incorporated into the majority of Design Connection, Inc.’s kitchen and bathroom remodels. Granite and I grow closer with every design project. We’re BFF’s.

White Granite with flex of silver harmoniously blends this kitchen's dark and white woods in with the stainless steel fixtures and appliances. Photo Source: Design Connection, Inc.

Granite is a unique material that adds a distinctive sense of class to any space. Whatever your personal style, be it modern, traditional, contemporary or eclectic and funky; the endless varieties of colors,  patterns and characteristics make it possible for everyone to enjoy Granite in their home.

The appliances are tucked behind the seamless cabinetry, giving all the shining glory to the Black Galaxy Granite and stainless steel backsplash. Photo Source: Design Connection, Inc.

For being one of the strongest rocks on the planet, Granite is incredibly versatile when it comes to Interior Design. It’s not just for kitchen counters anymore! If you can envision it, Design Connection, Inc. can create it.

Elegant, sophisticated and large enough to wash more than just your hands. Photo Source: Aphrodite Granite

Granite can be incorporated into every room, carved into just about any shape. Granite is a beautiful alternative when considering bathtub design. This bathtub was sculpted from a giant pebble shaped Granite piece from Bali. Like I said, if you can envision it, Design Connection, Inc. can create it!

The overhead chandelier shower head doesn't allow for attached faucets to distract from the beauty of this Granite basin bathtub. Photo Source: Pinterest

Granite can be incorporated into your bathroom design far beyond the average sink or bathtub. Like it’s stronger sister, Quartz, Granite makes for luxurious bathtubs, fireplace surrounds and even flooring.  Granite is also very easy to clean and maintain. An annual coat of sealer helps preserve your Granite’s luster and maintains it’s resistances to moisture and stains.

This seamless design flows from the Granite floors to the sunken jetted bathtub to the Granite fireplace surround. Photo Source: Pinterest

By incorporating Granite into your home’s design, be it kitchen countertops, a bathroom sink, or an entire floor, you are creating a lasting, beautiful centerpiece that will stand the test of time. Durable enough to hold up through life’s daily challenges and timeless enough to still be gorgeous and relevant decades later, regardless of whatever design trends that come and go.

Each slab of Granite is a magnificent work of art. Why not display it like one? Photo Source: Allied Stone

If  Granite and Quartz just isn’t your style, fear not. We will be sharing alternative options for kitchen countertops and bathroom solutions over the next few weeks. Read our weekly blog by and stay updated with the latest trends in home design and decor by connecting with Design Connection, Inc. on Pinterest, Facebook, Google+, Houzz, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Design Connection is an award-winning Kansas City interior design firm. We offer complimentary in-studio interior design consultations and can help you with your interior design, remodeling, revamping and restyling projects big and small throughout the Kansas City metro.  What are you waiting for? Give us a call at 913-851-8776 or fill out our contact form and let’s get started on your interior design project today!

Over the next few weeks, Design Connection, Inc. will help you explore your options and find the perfect countertop for your home with our 3-part series, “Your Kitchen Rocks”. With so many different materials available for kitchen and bathroom countertops, were does one begin? With Quartz, of course!

For years, Granite has maintained it’s status as “‘Most Popular Rock on the Block” by homeowners, builders and Interior Designers alike. This coveted title is may not belong to Granite for much longer, as Quartz is rapidly gaining popularity; and with good reason.

Design Connection, Inc. loves using family owned and operated Cambria when our interior designs call for Quartz. Although there are many types of Quartz available from all over the world, Cambria is the only Made in the USA manufacturer and supplier. Cambria Quartz is also lifetime guaranteed!

With over 100 designer colors to choose from finding the perfect Cambria Quartz for your space is guaranteed. Photo Source: Cambria USA

Cambria Quartz is essentially maintenance-free; it’s nonporous surface resists staining and prevents absorption of moisture and food materials. Surfaces like Granite are porous and vulnerable to absorption,  which can harbor mold and harmful bacterias. Granite is also susceptible to staining if not maintained with yearly applications of sealers, conditioners and waxes.

There's no crying over spilled milk, wine or coffee with this Cambria Quartz surface. Photo Source: Cambria USA

Because of Cambria’s nonporous qualities, Quartz is an ideal option when considering bathroom materials and design. The seamless design of an all-Quartz shower makes cleaning grout and tile a task of the past.

Water is all it takes to clean Quartz. No cleaners, no chemicals and no streaks! Photo Source: Cambria USA

Design Connection, Inc. snapped the photo below while visiting Cambria’s Palm Desert showroom. This bathroom design is a great example of the versatility and sustainability that Quartz possesses. The flooring, walls, bathtub, shower, bench and countertops are all made entirely from Cambria Quartz.

Endless color combinations and design possibilities make Cambria Quartz a unique alternative to Marble. Photo Source: Design Connection, Inc.

From contemporary to modern and everything in between, Cambria Quartz can be customized with any edge that you desire. Straight and moderns lines or rough and rustic, Quartz makes it possible to effortlessly blend different styles, colors and textures into your design.

Cambria Quartz is heat resistant; a fantastic option for fireplace surrounds. Photo Source: Cambria USA

If you are considering a bathroom or kitchen remodel, the Professionals at Design Connection, Inc. are here to help. It’s what we do!

We carry the most up-to-date Cambria Quartz samples in our showroom.

If Quartz just isn’t your style, fear not. We will be sharing alternative options for kitchen countertops and bathroom solutions over the next few weeks. Read our weekly blog by and stay updated with the latest trends in home design and decor by connecting with Design Connection, Inc. on Pinterest, Facebook, Google+, Houzz, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Design Connection is an award-winning Kansas City interior design firm. We offer complimentary in-studio interior design consultations and can help you with your interior design, remodeling, revamping and restyling projects big and small throughout the Kansas City metro.  What are you waiting for? Give us a call at 913-851-8776 or fill out our contact form and let’s get started on your interior design project today!

Spring has officially sprung in Kansas City. Finally! Now that you’ve spruced up your home’s decor with these Spring-inspired accessories, it’s time to relax, unwind and enjoy this beautiful weather.  At Design Connection, Inc., we’ve got some great ideas on how to carry the comforts of your home outside and transform your backyard into an outdoor living space, easily and affordably.

Increase the square footage of your home by turning your covered porch into an outdoor room with retractable motorized screens. With the visibility of normal screens, this unique mesh allows the breeze to flow through your space while blocking 90% of UV rays. Safely behind these screens, you can say goodbye to citronella candles and play outside after the street lights come on without fear of getting eaten alive by mosquitoes.

Dining Al fresco is even more enjoyable when it's bug-free! Source Phantom Screens

If you don’t have a covered patio, you can still reduce your home’s cooling costs and diminish fading of your interior furnishings with a motorized retractable awning. Filter light while maintaining your view like this Downtown Kansas City balcony turned summer retreat.

Your outdoor space can be comfortably utilized in the middle of the summer with a little help from Awnings By Haas.

Seating is a must-have for achieving a comfortable outdoor space.  Unique pieces that reflect your personal style may be hard to come by at your neighborhood department store. As an interior designer for Greater Kansas City, I often come across beautiful pieces that I haven’t spotted here in town, like the convertible furniture set pictured below.

Inspired by the petals of a deconstructed flower, this modular set of sofas, coffee tables and footstools from B-alance is a perfect example of furniture that will adjust to your needs.

Hammocks will never go out of style. Ever. Being suspended from a tree in your own personal cocoon, swaying with the breeze in the shade is the ultimate form of outdoor relaxation. But have you ever tried sharing a hammock with someone else? Didn’t work out so well, did it? Dedon has combined the size and comfort of a bed with the relaxing elements of a hammock; and thus, The Swingrest was born.

Two words: Afternoon Nap!

A great way to bring instant relaxation to your outdoor space is with a water feature. The sound of flowing water is well-known for producing a calming effect; sitting near a bubbling fountain is a great way to decompress and de-stress after a trying day or a long week. Water features can be easily incorporated into your design, both indoors and out. A wall mounted water feature, also know as a water wall, is a great option if floor space is an issue.

Two dissimilar metals have been interwoven, creating a spectacular backdrop for the trickling water that is illuminated with LED lights from below & through the seams in the medal. Source: David Harber

Another natural element you can add to your existing outdoor space is fire. Recently, we talked about how affordable custom made furniture can be. Outdoor fire pits are no exception. You can personally select just about every material and feature when it comes to designing your own outdoor fire source.

This raised tabletop with built-in fire pit is low maintenance and multifunctional. Source: Outdoor Kitchens USA

Design Connection, Inc. is here every week; sharing new design tips, ideas, unique furniture pieces and accessories. Stay updated with the latest trends in home design and decor by connecting with Design Connection, Inc. on Pinterest, Facebook, Google+, Houzz, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Design Connection is an award-winning Kansas City interior design firm. We offer complimentary in-studio interior design consultations and can help you with your interior design, remodeling, revamping and restyling projects big and small throughout the Kansas City metro.  What are you waiting for? Give us a call at 913-851-8776 or fill out our contact form and let’s get started on your interior design project today!

A Design Connection Featured Project

Basements. The dark and dank cellars of our previous generations are, thankfully, a thing of the past. The space in our homes that used to be inhabited only by creepy crawlies, jars of Aunt Mable’s homemade preserves and in some cases, the Boogeyman, have been replaced with actual living spaces. Yet how many of us can say that we love our basements? Design Connection, Inc. has helped many Kansas City clients transform their basements into stylish and functional Lower Level Living. Read on to learn about one of our recent basement redesign projects!

The previous bar was functional but the space was not being used to it’s full potential. After living in their home for ten years, our clients wanted this space to reflect their family’s lifestyle and they were ready for something more dramatic. When they asked Design Connection, Inc. to transform their dated basement bar into an English Pub, we jumped at the chance. What a fun redesign!

The old cabinets were removed and brand new custom cabinetry was installed. Staying true to the English Pub theme,  glass shelves were incorporated to display the bar’s liquor assortment. This look truly comes together because of the special details in this space. With strategically placed low voltage lighting, the glass mosaic tile and copper sink harmonizes perfectly with the beautiful granite counter tops. This space is further defined by the ceiling beam grid work with copper foil as accents.

A few more items from our client’s wish list was a built-in salt water aquarium and a wine room. Design is all about the details and we focused on making these two elements special focal points in the room. An aquarium is naturally beautiful and instantly eye-catching, but the custom trim and lighting really makes it pop. The entrance to the wine room was made even more inviting when we added the gorgeous dark wood and iron door. With good space planning, this small space was designed to showcase an exquisite hand painted Tuscan mural as well as accommodate our client’s substantial wine collection.

Pictures of this project “Before” show what a huge transformation this space has undertaken;  just another example of the magic Design Connection, Inc. possesses when it comes to our residential redesigns and remodels! Don’t just take our word for it; read about it firsthand from the happy Lower Level Dwellers themselves.

Client Testimonial: “My wife and I really want to express how happy we are with our renovations. Your design choices in our new rec room really achieved what we were after; a warm inviting area to watch TV with the family as well as a sophisticated and “cool” area to entertain. While we sometimes were nervous about making such big changes to our space, you always saw the final product and you were right on. Our kitchen makeover turned out just as well. The new, large single level island is a godsend. We certainly bit off quite a bit with this project and you always helped keep our stress levels down. Everyone that has seen the new spaces can’t believe the changes and they all tell us how much they love the new digs. Thanks to your entire team for all the great work!”

If this project inspires you to take a closer look at your own home, let our experienced design team at Design Connection, Inc. show you the possibilities that an update can bring to your living space.  Call us at 913-851-8776 to schedule an in-home consultation. We can’t wait to redesign your basement into the lower level of your dreams.

I love being a Kansas City Interior Designer! There is nothing more gratifying to me than meeting someone new and turning their wish-list into a living reality.

And there is nothing more satisfying than having a space that is completely YOU. Where every square inch is pieced together with your personal style in mind. You should have that space. You work hard. You deserve it!  Just think of it: Customized. Made to order. Elegant. Expensive. Not quite! Custom designs are a lot more affordable than you may think. If you’re considering investing in new furniture, don’t run down to ‘that one store by the mall’ just yet! Take a look at some of these ideas before you run the risk of purchasing the same living room  as your neighbors.

If you are nervous about using your home’s decor as your personal creative outlet, start small. Have fun by mixing up the colors and patterns of your existing space with a one-of-a-kind table lamp, floor lamp or pendant. Light fixtures serve an even brighter purpose when you have a hand in their creation.

Design your own lamp by choosing a light fixture, lamp shade and by selecting your own patterns and colors combinations like I did with Lamps Plus.

Night after night your bed is there for you, comforting you, cradling you and providing much needed rest and relaxation. Don’t you think your bed deserves a little more individuality than what a bed-in-a-bag can deliver? Sometimes finding the right bedding can be a challenge. Do you love the color on your walls but can’t seem to find a coordinating comforter that is actually comfortable?  There are so many options out there to choose from, where does one start? With a unique duvet that you and your partner can design together, of course.

I had so much fun getting creative with the many options InMod offers. I chose everything from the fabric, colors and patterns, right down to the color thread used for the embroidery. With reasonable prices like this, it is possible to create more than one look that you can easily and afford-ably swap out when the mood strikes.

We spend a lot of time in bed. One-third of our lives, to be exact. Your bed is the most comfortable seat in the house and it should possess an equal level of style. YOUR style. I absolutely love ordering custom furniture like this from Hickory White for my clients. The options are endless when designing your own furniture; the wide variety of colors, upholstery, embellishments and pattern options ensures your bed will be a one-of-a-kind design.

Get creative by using different upholstery in complimenting colors. This suede-like headboard paired with the rich textures in the footboard gives this space balance and depth. Source: Hickory White

Custom furniture can be created for every room in your house. You don’t have to settle for the cookie cutter options available at ‘that one store by the mall’. A beautiful and creative dining room, like this design by Design Connection, Inc., can very easily be yours. With custom pieces like these from Designmaster Furniture, you can select the style, fabrics, colors, embellishments and more. Have a look through their incredible gallery; you are certain to find a dining room table and the perfect chairs to work within your space, made especially  just for you.

Redesigning this space was so much fun; it was quite the transformation! Click on the pic to view the Before & After Pics of this room and other projects from Design Connection, Inc.

You can custom design just about anything yourself these days from floor rugs and throw pillows to glass mosaic tile. For those of you that can’t wait to get your hands dirty with a new DIY project, consider incorporating your own mosaic glass tile creation into the equation. Your colors and patterns selections are made into easy-to-install glass tile sheets. This bathroom was made completely out of of 100% recycled, LEED Qualified glass mosaic tile. This particular tile was made from crushed car windshields that sustained damaged during the manufacturing process and were recycled into beautiful glass tile. Too blue for you? That’s ok, this Eco-friendly tile is available in over 100 colors.

Susan Jablon's Mosaics is the perfect outlet to let your creativity flow from your computer right onto your kitchen back splash, or over your entire bathroom!

Many of us are inspired by DIY projects we’ve come across online. We’ve pinned ideas, shared how-to videos and posted pics of our dream designs, but let’s face it, most of us will not be grouting tile, wielding a nail gun or sewing upholstery anytime soon. That is where Design Connection, Inc. comes in. You don’t need to be planning a complete remodel of your home in order to justify enlisting the help of a design professional. Beyond the ideas I’ve showcased here, Design Connection, Inc. can help you personalize your space with custom furniture, finishes, window treatments, accessories, artwork and more, all within your budget and time frame.

If your home is missing that personal touch, contact our office today for a complimentary consultation. I can’t wait to meet you and turn your ideas into a living reality!

Design Connection is an award-winning Kansas City interior design firm that can help you with your design, remodeling and restyling projects throughout Greater Kansas City.  Call at 913-851-8776 or fill out our contact form and let’s get started on your interior design project today, big or small. Stay on top of  Kansas City interior design trends each week by connecting with us on Facebook!

Ahhh, Spring. The sun is shining, the birds are singing, the snow has melted and your house is a mess.

It’s OK-it happens to the best of us! That’s why Spring Cleaning is an annual tradition, celebrated across America like the reopening of swimming pools on Memorial Day. This time every year in Kansas City, we tuck our winter coats and bulky sweaters away, far into the depths of the closet; we clean and purge and dust in areas that haven’t been seen since last year. This year, Design Connection, Inc. is here with some great ideas on how to spruce up your decor and give your space a totally new, fresh look. A look that you can tackle yourself before the tulips start blooming.

Shop for an area rug whose main color compliments your larger pieces of furniture first before deciding on accessories. Photo Source: Nesting Place

One of the easiest way to quickly change the dynamics of a space is with a fantastic area rug. By using the colors and patterns that are in your area rug as a guide, adding complimentary accessories is what really pulls the room together. There is such a wide variety of patterns, textures and styles available; shopping for the perfect piece is half the fun!

Bright colors and bold patterns blend wonderfully with contemporary furniture. Source: Chandra Rugs

Perusing for rugs online can be design-inspiring and fun, too, but keep in mind that it’s not just the pattern that is key to selecting an area rug. Weave density, texture, size and accurate color matching must also be considered. When shopping for a new rug, seeing the patterns and actually feeling the textures in person eliminates the guesswork from the equation. Our Design Studio is the perfect place to start your search for new spring decor and accessories!

The angles and depth of this mirror is sure to catch and reflect even the smallest amount of light. Source: Cyan Design

Even if it’s a little too cool to open your windows, you can still capture the Spring sunshine by harnessing the multifunctional magic of mirrors. Strategically placed mirrors can add a tremendous amount of natural light into your home. Mirrors are perfect for small spaces or areas in your home that you wish had more natural light. An eye-catching mirror might just be what your space is missing. I discovered both of these unique mirrors at Cyan Design, one of my favorite go-to places for accessories and design inspiration.

Who knew a mirror constructed out of copper and raw steel could be so versatile? Source: Cyan Design

A while back, we talked about the incredible possibilities of Throw Pillows-The Little Accessory That Could! Swapping out your small and functional accessories like throw pillows can alter your room’s design in dramatic ways. The dark fabrics and heavy patterns you’ve grown accustomed to during winter hibernation can easily be traded out for bright and lively pieces.

With so many textures, patterns and styles, you can really let your own personal style shine though with these functional and versatile accessories.

And of course, nothing says, “Spring” like a bouquet of fresh flowers. I believe vases should be as beautiful and interesting as the flowers they display. Vase design has taken one even more of an art-form in recent years; there are so many beautiful and interesting options to choose from!

These stunning cyan and orange vases can turn a basic flower arrangement into a work of art simply by placing it in direct light. Source: Cyan Design

The tricks and tips we’ve talked about today should really help you get the ball rolling on Spring-i-fying your decor. All of the accessories featured here today can be purchased through Design Connection! If you have a room that can use a transformation or if you need help finding the perfect accessories for your home, stop by our showroom for a free consultation.

Design Connection is an award-winning Kansas City interior design firm and can help you with your design, remodeling and restyling projects throughout Greater Kansas City.  Call at 913-851-8776 or fill out our contact form and let’s get started on your interior design project today, big or small. Stay on top of  Kansas City interior design trends each week by connecting with us on Facebook!

In recent weeks I visited the Pacific Design Center in Los Angeles, CA and had such an incredible time looking at all the wonderful products and ideas that are out there for today’s interiors. I returned home to Kansas City thinking a great deal about the bathroom design trends that I saw. While I’m personally more of a shower than a bath person, I found myself absolutely enchanted by the remarkable variety of freestanding tubs on the market.

Cutting edge bathtub designs are taking the ritual of cleansing to a high-end level of architectural beauty.  Freestanding baths provide a luxurious stage for inspired design while making the comforts of a lavish spa part of our daily lives. Hey, Kansas City! Are you ready to get bath inspired? Read on, my friends:

Smooth and classy, the simple lines of this tub become stunning against a textured tile wall. Source: Hydro Systems

I love freestanding tubs because they are ideal for every design style. Freestanding baths give enormous scope for creativity and inspired design in a bathroom. That being said, white tubs don’t have to be bland. Today’s bathtubs have a lot to offer in terms of unique shapes and style. Paired with customized hardware and accessories, these tubs definitely make a statement.

Inspired by a walnut shell, this modern freestanding soaking tub is a chameleon. It truly blends effortlessly into any design style. Source: WetStyle

Believe it or not, this is the same tub as the one above. I snapped this pic when I was at the PDC- paired with an eye-popping backsplash this tub looks fun, hip and very stylish.

Regardless of size, style or design, bathtubs are often the focal point in bathrooms. Why not make your bathtub an actual centerpiece? If you have the space, it’s a beautiful and functional way to make a statement.

This is from a beautiful bathroom remodel I did in Leawood KS. The freestanding oval tub made for a stunning focal point in this space.

Is space at a premium in your bathroom? Working with a small space can definitely be challenging but with good space planning and a little creativity, you can still have a bathroom you’ll love! You don’t have to have an enormous space to have an incredible bath.

Japanese soaking tubs allow you the luxury of being completely submerged while taking up very little floor space. An added bonus; they are especially popular among those whose height is an issue with standard sized tubs. Source: Diamond Spas

Is a little bling more your thing?  No worries- these two breathtaking beauties go beyond the neutral white tub and straight into becoming works of art.

Elegant, extravagant and timeless, coppers and metals are a classic choice that still have a little design “edge” to them Source: Bath Works

Indulge your inner Cinderella and become the belle of the bath in this gorgeous “blue slipper” soaking tub. Source: Mosaic Bath Company

Technology, creativity and artistry are washing away the years we’ve spent showering in a bathtub and bathing in a box. Most of the freestanding soaking tubs I am sharing with you are fully customizable, from colors and materials to sizes and depths. Interested in incorporating a bath into your master suite? You can check out our bathroom remodeling and design portfolio for some ideas or come see us so we can help you create your perfect vision! We offer complimentary in-studio interior design consultations and can help you plan your next decorating or remodeling project.  What are you waiting for? Spring is the perfect time to get started on your home improvement and interior design projects!  We can help you with all of your interior design, remodeling and restyling projects throughout the Greater Kansas City area.

Give us a call at 913-851-8776 or fill out our contact form and let’s get started on your interior design project today!

Last week, while I was visiting family in California, I took a day to visit the Pacific Design Center. I always feel like a kid in a candy store when I visit these design centers. Imagine, 1,200,000 square feet dedicated to showcasing, anything and everything an interior designer needs. There are 130 showrooms with 2,100 interior product lines exclusive to the trade. Needless to say it was a great day with many finds that I can bring back to Kansas City.

I want to share some of the wall sconces that I found. A wall sconce is a light fixture that is attached to the wall, rather than hanging down from the ceiling. They are usually decorative in nature, but are also used to add mood lighting to a space. What I love about wall sconces is that they are three dimensional works of art. Take a look at these gorgeous sconces I fell in love with.

I call these two examples: a sliver of silver. When you need to bring in a pop of whimsical modern to your space, this is the wall sconce for you. Notice how the different shade sizes change the proportion of the light. The first one highlights the shape of the lamp, while the second one becomes more of a base for the light.

This example is a golden touch of elegance. This fixture makes a bold artistic statement and feels like it is floating instead of attached to the wall. It has good length, which creates a strong presence, but its soft elements keep it balanced. Notice how the shade is short but wide, the perfect cap for this work of art.

If your home is more traditional, you might prefer this sconce. It is a hand finished wrought iron that is simple but special. It has just the right amount of details to keep it interesting, but not overpower the wall. This would be a perfect choice when framing artwork, since it won’t compete with the art, rather enhance it.

And finally sometimes simple is best. When you just need a little bit of extra light, next to a nightstand, desk or reading area this would be a good choice. It would work well will all styles, from modern to traditional. Notice how this fixture comes off the wall more than the others, this brings the light closer to you for tasks such as reading.

There are many ways to bring more light into your home. Sconces are a beautiful option to bring attention to a certain area. They work well in hallways, on staircases, around fireplaces, and really anywhere else. The professional designers at Design Connection Inc., can help you with all your lighting needs. We have long standing relationships with lighting vendors and we can make sure that your new lighting is not only beautiful, but also functional.

With the recent nice weather I found myself suffering from a bit of Spring Fever. Thoughts of flowers coming out of their winter hibernation, yards turning green and leaves emerging on trees just makes me happy. Of course, with spring comes a vibrant array of trends and ideas for your home as you transition from the cozy colors of winter into fresh tones of spring. That being said, let’s take a look at some of the trends happening now in Kansas City interior design!

Pretty pastels are making their mark on interior design trends this Spring.
With Easter around the corner, it makes sense that soft pastel shades are trending but they aren’t just for Easter eggs or baskets anymore. Pastels are becoming popular on walls, especially for people who want to ease into playing with color in their homes. Surprisingly neutral in many cases, colors like pale yellows, dreamy blues and soft greens pair surprisingly well with almost any kind and color of furniture and accessories.

Cheerful and bright- lemons aren’t just for lemonade! In fact, Benjamin Moore took inspiration from the citrusy fruit with their color of the year: Lemon Sorbet. If you’re tired of earthy light tan and cream colored walls, this might be the perfect shade for you! It’s subtle enough and instantly brings a little sunshine into any room. Of course, when thinking spring I’m also thinking about the environment which is another reason why I love Benjamin Moore paints. Setting the standard in the painting industry and masterminding design trends for nearly 130 years, Benjamin Moore offers some of the greenest, most eco-friendly paints on the market.

Lemon Sorbet from Benjamin Moore adds a soft and cheerful glow to this kitchen's walls.

Neutral, light backgrounds can easily be paired with pops of complimentary pastel accessories. One of the great things about having a generally neutral palette in a room is how easy it is to change the look of a room with a few accessories.  It’s amazing how much character a few cute throw pillows, a patterned throw blanket and some fun accessories can add to a room.

Flower accents are the perfect spring accessory for breathing life into a plain space. Source: Gumps

The great thing about decorating with pastels is they blend together harmoniously. The entire color palate can be featured with an array of different patterns, textures and accessories, all while remaining sophisticated, contemporary and relaxing. If the thought of pastels on your walls is daunting, you might consider adding a colored slipcover, some wall art or a cute lamp to add visual interest in a variety of pastel colors like in the photo below.

Pretty in Pastel by Ana Antune

You can also bring a little color into your everyday living with pretty pastel dishes and tabletop settings. When you are looking at incorporating pastels-keep in mind that they don’t always have to be a solid color. Geometric designs and fun patterns can help give texture to a space and lend a chic but subtle style vibe when done in pastels.

Subtle colors in geometric patterned tableware is perfect for a little splash of everyday color!

Still not sure you love the idea of pastels? That’s ok, the beauty of interior design work is that there is always the right fit for everyone’s tastes! When I think of spring, I think of green. Spring hasn’t exactly sprung here in Kansas City, yet everywhere I turn I see green. Emerald green, to be exact. Named Pantone’s official 2013 Color of the Year, Emerald has taken the fashion world by storm and has unlocked the door of possibilities in home design trends. Because Emerald is such a bold, commanding color, I recommend easing this color into your home’s decor. A little goes a long way.

An Emerald accent wall can provide the perfect “wow” factor that is eye catching and refreshing without being overbearing. Printed accent walls are also gaining popularity. If you don’t feel comfortable working with wallpaper, consider creating a “printed” accent wall using stencils or decals.

Stencil wall decals like this one from Etsy is perfect for Do-It-Yourselfers.

So what colors will go with Emerald Green other than the standard black and white? Taking a cue from the yellow brick road, when you are looking for colors to pair with Emerald Green you might want to consider golden tones. Emerald is strong yet smooth, earthy yet luxurious; when paired with yellows, golds and brass. In a word- Emerald is simply elegant.

The perfect touches of Emerald and Brass by Redbook.

You can still enjoy the pizazz of Emerald in your home without going through a major redesign. Functional and stylish tabletop accessories like this Emerald crystal vase is an ideal way to ease this commanding color into your home’s decor.

Crystal Classics' offers Emerald vases in many shapes and styles.

What do you think about the spring color trends in interior design? We hope you’ll let us know by leaving a comment or chatting with us on Twitter or Facebook. If you need help deciding whether you’ll take a trip to the “Emerald City” this spring or picture your home in pastels, you know you can count on me and the team at Design Connection to make sure that there’s no place like YOUR home. Design Connection is an award-winning Kansas City interior design firm. We offer complimentary in-studio interior design consultations and can help you with your interior design, remodeling, revamping and restyling projects big and small throughout the Kansas City metro.  What are you waiting for? Give us a call at 913-851-8776 or fill out our contact form and let’s get started on your interior design project today!