New Concepts for Bathrooms – Eliminate Your Tub!

Categories: Bathroom, Master Bathroom, Remodeling, Remodeling Projects, Remodeling Tips No Comments »

cool showerShowersWe are getting prospective clients calling that are ready to make changes in their master bathroom. They want to eliminate large bathtubs and have great walk-in showers, they have been seeing in the model homes. Most of the time we are able to accomplish what they are requesting. I always remind my clients most things are possible, but there is a price to pay for such a modern large update. 

 We are enlarging showers and upgrading to body spray systems or integrated custom showers. Kohler has some really great new and updated products that can turn your outdated master bathroom into something magical and spa like. For inspiration on bathrooms visit our portfolio.

Tip: We have been told by realtors that you should still have one bathtub on the same floor.

We are at your service, how can we help you? www.designconnectioninc.com

Our Award-Winning Project

Categories: Current Trends, Fabrics, Furniture, Paint Colors, What we are doing. No Comments »

Design Connection Inc. was recently honored with two ASID ASID award 2009awards (American Society of Interior Design). We are proud that we can deliver high quality results. Below is a description of the project and how we approached the design.

The client hired us, after viewing our work and realizing his style meshed with our style of design. The client a bachelor wanted a turnkey project which the designer could act independently of the client. He lived out of town and wanted a residence in Kansas City where his children lived. We furnished everything from paint colors and wallpaper, to a complete kitchen which included dishes, pots and pans.

This residence was a condo space that had many angles interesting architectural features, but left you feeling cold. So, Warm tones and neutrals were selected to create an inviting space and to help support the custom art work in making a fresh, bold statement.  The linen drapery panels were hung using a satin nickel drapery rod to create a masculine feel; across the room the client’s desk is topped with granite and flanked with file drawers.  A wonderfully soft fabric was used to upholster the sectional sofa, where the client enjoys relaxing and entertaining.

The furniture floating in this area reflects the angles and the ten foot ceilings allow the space to feel ample.  The walls and ceilings are painted the same neutral khaki and the base boards are an even darker khaki.  When walking into this room the view is fabulous, with no furniture obstructing the line of vision.  Our client loves to spend time enjoying television, using his computer, and just hanging out!

If you like this look, click on the links to view the websites of  Stanley Furniture  C.R. Laine and Z Gallerie

To see the full project visit our website portfolio

Tile: Not just for floors anymore.

Categories: Current Trends, Furniture, Master Bedroom, Tile, Uncategorized 2 Comments »
Tile is not only for floors anymore
Tile is not only for floors anymore

Tile is not only for your bathroom and floors anymore. You can use tile to create some pizzazz in your bedroom by creating a mosaic tile headboard. This is a fabulous way to create an interesting and unique focal point. By keeping the headboard frame understated and sleek, we let the color and texture of the tile do all the talking. And what a special statement it is making! We hope that as you begin any design project you consider using traditional materials in a creative way.

 Tip: When working with an interior designer, communicate your ideas and wants clearly, but give the designer room to take your project to the next level. www.designconnectioninc.com

For great tile selection and ideas visit  Daltile 

 

Clean and Chic, Cork Flooring is a Green Choice

Categories: Cork, Current Trends, Flooring, Kid Rooms, Kitchen Remodeling, Remodeling Tips No Comments »

Did you see the article about cork flooring in the Sunday House and Home section of the Kansas City Star? My opinion on cork is that it is a wonderful green alternative material. But… it must be used in the right room with the right conditions. Cork is perfect for a fun playroom because it is soft and durable. However, if you have a traditional kitchen, the casual look of cork would probably not work. It works best with transitional or modern designs. I suggest consulting an interior designer before you make major home improvement decisions. You might be focusing on the qualities of the material, while we can see how it will impact the look of your home. www.designconnectioninc.com Cork_Tiles

Design Tip: Cork is a flexible material and can be cut into a variety of sizes. We can create interesting borders or patterns just like we would with tile or wood.

Hardwood Trends

Categories: Current Trends, Flooring, Hardwood Floors, Remodeling, Remodeling Projects, Remodeling Tips No Comments »
DesignTips KC: Adding a medallion in your foyer creates a special detail that creates a great first impression of your home.

DesignTips KC: Adding a medallion in your foyer creates a special detail that creates a great first impression of your home.

Deep, dark, rich colors like chocolate and espresso are the new way to go with your hardwood floors. Things to consider with flooring – in addition to color - are plank width, wood texture and layout patterns. Your floors are an important consideration in the design of your home. They visually tie your rooms together, don’t take them for granted.

We work with www.svbwoodfloors.com for their quality attention to detail.

If you are interested in an interior design consultation contact us! www.designconnectioninc.com

We are on facebook and twitter!

A New Room for the Holidays

Categories: Current Trends, Furniture, What we are doing. No Comments »
This cocktail table can be added to most rooms to add interest or focus.

This cocktail table can be added to most rooms to add interest or focus.

We get a lot of clients who come to me thinking that their furniture has to match. Nothing could be further from the truth. When every aspect of your room matches, it becomes very boring. Our approach has always been to combine quality pieces that make a statement individually, but work with all the other items in your room.
If you are planning on updating or redesigning your home for the holidays, now is the time to order your new furniture, drapes and custom pieces. We can ensure your holiday delivery date if you order by September 30.
The table shown is a John-Richard cocktail table. You can see more furniture by visiting www.johnrichard.com. You can order this furniture line from our office.  www.designconnectioninc.com 

Kid’s Rooms From Blah to Boom!

Categories: Accessories, Current Trends, Fabrics, Kid Rooms, Paint Colors, Remodeling Projects, What we are doing. No Comments »

Kid's RoomChildren’s bedrooms are great fun to design. Kids want a space to express their personality. In our featured project the daughter had a beautiful collection of Barbie dolls that we showcased. And accented her walls with paisley shapes with strong bright colors. 

My advice is to pick a theme or color that will tie the whole look together. Then start with the furniture, replacing the big pieces first. Click here to get started with Young America for ideas and direction. Make sure to measure your room, you want the furniture to fit well, and not overwhelm the space.

DesignTipsKC: A room with lots of shelves and cubbies can help a child organize their belongings. A couple of shelves can be dedicated to displaying their crafts and trophies.

 We always have a lot of fun designing children’s spaces. If you want help with your space contact us! http://www.designconnectioninc.com/

Free I-Phone App for Paint Colors!

Categories: Paint Colors, Uncategorized No Comments »

Benjamin Moore I-phone appHave you thought about adding some new fall colors to your home now that you are going to start spending more time indoors?  I found an intriguing I-Phone application that actually helps you select paint colors.  See attached link to Benjamin Moore for a high tech way to get paint color recommendations for your home.  As “cool” as this sounds if you feel more comfortable discussing paint with an experienced interior designer who has actually seen many paint color options applied to various settings and lighting conditions, please give me a call and “ask Arlene” about paint for your home.

www.DesignConnectionInc.com

Decorating Gods vs. the Real World

Categories: Accessories, Current Trends, Fabrics, Furniture, Master Bedroom, Remodeling Tips, What is an Interior designer?, What we are doing. No Comments »

There is an ongoing battle in the design world of trends vs. things you love. Many times we are shamed by decorating gods pushing trends and themes. You go back into your home and look at the things you love and wonder if you need to get rid of them. No you don’t! I feel very strongly about mixing in elements that you love with good design.

Many people chase trends, and become vulnerable to what stores and magazines advocate. But that only leaves you with an overexposed purchase, meaning that you are likely to run into your same lamp at a couple of neighbors and friends homes.

Your life, home and family are unique and your design should reflect that in a comfortable way. If you like a certain look, material or texture, go for it! A designer will show you how to mix and utilize it in a balanced way. We believe in the value of design that you love and one that lasts.

Wallpaper

Categories: Bathroom, Remodeling Tips, Uncategorized, Wallpaper No Comments »

Wallpaper is a great way to spice up a space. We use it mostly in bathrooms and dining rooms to add a pop of interest. Wallpapers come in many designs; we especially like the ones with metallic accents. The papers are of a high quality, and very easy to clean and change when its time for a new look. Examples of Wallpaper