The pandemic has caused a sea change in how we live, work and play. Fourteen months later, we can now observe design trends that have emerged which are fundamentality reshaping the look, feel, and functionality of our homes:
Virtual Presentations and At-Home Meetings: For many, working from home has gone from a rare perk to a company mandate, with many traditional offices announcing they will not return to full capacity until after the summer. When creating a functional home office space, one of the crucial things that must be taken into consideration is a background for your virtual meetings that is tidy, attractive and gives the right vibe for your business. A carefully curated bookshelf goes a long way to demonstrated professionalism, sophistication and flair.
Increased Desire for a Hideaway That Inspires Tranquility and Calmness: As with so many major cities, living in NYC usually means living in smaller spaces. Many people have discovered that a beach or country home is the best way to find the tranquility needed to offset hectic city life. However, you can create a similar sense of calm in in the city, too. Small outdoor settings like a terrace or balcony can be transformed into a “Zen Retreat” which are well worth the upfront investment. Empty walk-in closets can be repurposed and reimagined for meditation (if you can afford to give up the storage space to make a hideaway there). Small garden sheds in the backyard can be converted into amazingly inspired "She Sheds" complete with wifi connection – a sanguine oasis to refresh, recharge and get those creative juices flowing again.
A Heightened Desire for Fun and Things That Spark Joy: What does “joy” mean to you? For many, “joy” means playing games with children and, perhaps, breaking a sweat with some exercise. With many people cancelling gym memberships and choosing to work out from home, spaces big enough for exercise equipment are in high demand. Paying a little extra to design and install a home gym is a great way to offset the cost of an expensive gym membership in the long run.
Greater Organization and the Need for Smarter Storage Solutions: I was recently asked by a former client to help her design a lovely pantry in a closet off her kitchen. We created wonderful shelving with meticulously organized storage that make for a scrumptious visual display and allows for a “place for everything and everything in its place" – complete with wine storage and a coffee station. From my experience, most people don’t need MORE storage, they just need SMARTER storage.
Embrace Mother Nature by Enhancing Natural Elements: From large windows and sliding doors that bring the outside in to greenery and nature-inspired colors, design that enhances our connection to the environment is key to nourishing mental and physical wellness as the world around us continues to adapt to disruption and evolve into something fresh and new.
Although there is no shortage of design inspiration for the avid DIY-er online, we are happy and eager to provide our expert assistance, even remotely, for the busy professional.
CONSULTATION PACKAGES
Julie and her team have a passion for creating beautiful, engaging and functional spaces, focusing on both the physical as well as the emotional well being of your environment. Click on the links below for package details:
FULL SERVICE E-DESIGN PACKAGE A design collaboration done between client and designer done entirely online. Purchase the package below, submit photos of the space and existing furnishings you like to see incorporated in the design and a sketch of the space with measurements.
COLOR CONSULTATION PACKAGE Need some assistance in selecting paint finishes for your home? A design collaboration done between client and designer done entirely online. Purchase the package below, submit photos of the space and and fabrics.
FENG SHUI RESIDENTIAL PACKAGE Whether it is directing the flow of chi through the arrangement of furnishings, design or colors; Julie and her team can help you to create the spaces that support your vision of a balanced life, rich in the areas that matter to you.
HOME STAGING PACKAGE There is no second chance to make a good first impression. When the time comes to sell or rent your home, ease the transition and maximize return by helping your home look its very best.