5 Things Interior Designers focus in on when it comes to Textiles

 

Textiles. That word is being used more than ever. I know people in the interior design world who have graduated from places like the School of the Art Institute in Chicago — in Textile! I didn't even know that was a major. 

When I thought about what I would write in this post, my mind raced; I knew I wanted to share all of the increased textile knowledge that has just soared over the past years. Because no matter the client or project, fabric always comes up. When discussing textiles with clients, they’re amazed at the knowledge that flows — I can’t help it because textiles are game changers. Here are five things I love about textiles.

Textiles are super easy to add to your home. First, and foremost, let’s establish that adding texture to your home, in the form of textiles, is super easy, and they’re so welcoming. Textiles include: rugs, pillows, linens, and drapes. I hope I didn’t lose you at drapes! There are so many wonderful, updated fabrics that really frame your windows, and the view you see through your windows. No matter the textile — they bring a home to life! They also wick moisture, add comfort, absorb sound acoustically, and keep colors vibrant.

Textiles perform. Durability is such a hot topic today. So, when dealing with upholstery fabric, be aware that there is a durability test — a rub count. The manufacturer uses a machine to apply a standard amount of pressure and rubs it across the face of the fabric. If the fabric says 3,000 double rubs, that means it will first show wear at that count. The rub count is listed on all the fabrics in my studio, so it’s fun to see a client searching for the number to narrow their choices. Both natural and synthetic fabrics can also be rubbed in a way that provides superior durability. 

In the past, most of my clients never would have dreamed of using a nice fabric with kids and sippy cups around. But even a mother of four, with three of those being boys, can now find fabrics that withstand the wear and tear. And, the right textiles on a pillow can handle people who drool while napping on a pillow; I know, we hope it won’t happen, but you can plan on it!  Rugs will be walked on and unplanned spills are guaranteed, and I won’t even get started on our furry friends that keep homeowners on their game. Still, I have recommended outdoor rugs for indoors many times, because of their durability and the fact that they really no longer look like the outdoor rugs of yesterday.

Textile technology protects. Technology that was previously only available to the trade, and used strictly for commercial, is now available residentially. And that’s only the beginning of how technology has been applied to textiles. There are so many options to be used indoors and outdoors--UV and fade-resistant, mildew-resistant, and even bleach cleanable fabrics. Fabrics are engineered to combine the highest level of design and performance. Other textile technologies are Crypton, where most liquids just roll off, and microbial resistance to control fabric odor and is easy to clean. Nanotex is another fancy name that resists spills and still maintains the natural hand of the fabric as well as being eco-friendly in all its technology. And, finally, did you know there are upholstery and drape flammability tests?

Textiles enhance. When designing a piece of furniture, we always include Frame – Finish – and Fabric. Just trying to land the frame style can be difficult with a custom seating piece such as a chair or sofa, then we have to select the wood finish. Each of our manufacturers has well over 25 or more finish samples. Next, we get to the textiles where we have more specifics such as cotton, polyester, leather, or a blend. Then you have solids and patterns. Creating luxurious vibes can be illuminated through modern-feel textures. 

My favorite for the past few years has been Ombre -- a fabric made by laying in wefts of yarn that are closely colored hues, and that after weaving created a shaded effect. It is purely described as a color fade. When I held an alpaca hombre pillow at market I was in heaven! Botanicals are sophisticated and they are rich in colors, or very tone on tone. Plaids are making a comeback and they are popping up everywhere. Solids are classic and the updated weaves add texture. 

Textiles have sustainability.  Sustainability has led to greater awareness on organics and textiles that are friendly to our environment. I was interviewed about the interior design world’s lean towards going green. Eco Cradle to Cradle Green Organic is the buzz. 

So, with all of this info about textiles in interior design, you are now ready to go into nerd mode! But all of this textile knowledge isn’t just for the cool factor of knowing it, but it’s to help you select the best for your space.

Information on LEED, consult the U.S. Green Building Council at www.usgbc.org

ACT & ACT Guidelines: www.contracttextiles.org

Bella-Dura: www.bella-dura.com

Sunbrella: www.sunbrella.com

Crypton: www.cryptonfabric.com

Crypton Green: www.cryptonfabric.com/eco-friendly-fabric

Sensuede: www.sensuede.com

 

To learn more about textiles from our lead designer, visit https://www.scarborodesigns.com and read the blog “5 Things Interior Designers focus in on when it comes Textiles”

 

Jeanette Scarboro

CEO of Scarboro Designs and The Hive Experience

September 21, 2023 — Jeanette Scarboro

Why Hire A Designer in 2023

Hiring an experienced designer in 2023 is a great investment that can help you craft your dream space and save money by narrowing down the best options for what you're looking for.
May 02, 2023 — Jeanette Scarboro
The Benefits of Cashmere and Why It’s the Best Fabric for the Cozy

The Benefits of Cashmere and Why It’s the Best Fabric for the Cozy

Though often relegated to the stuff of sweaters and scarves, cashmere is one of the most versatile, luxurious, and long-lasting fabrics available. It’s softness is unrivaled, making it ideal for everything from babies’ clothes to nightgowns. And its strength means that it will last for years with proper care. Here are just a few of the benefits of this cozy fabric.

What is cashmere and where does it come from?

Everyone loves to cozy up with a cozy blanket cape or throw. But what they might not know is that some of the softest, most luxurious materials come from a surprisingly rugged place: the goat’s belly. Cashmere – the cozy material beloved by all – comes from the delicate fleece beneath the goats’ coarse outer coats. Only certain breeds of goat can produce cashmere. After being combed from the animal, it is carefully spun to make garments such as sweaters and throws for warmth in the winter months.

Not only is cashmere warm but it can also be dressed up or down depending on style and occasion. So next time you cozy up with your favorite blanket cape or throw, think of where it came from: an unexpected source of comfort.

 

Why is cashmere the best fabric for cozy clothing items?

Cashmere may be the blanket you take to bed, metaphorically speaking. It is the lightest and softest of all natural fibers, getting its namesake from Kashmiri goats historically prized for their fine wool. Cashmere provides true luxury and cost efficiency in one package-- unlike other fabrics like silk or certain animal hides, it’s not prohibitively expensive and still looks luxurious enough for any special occasion. But it’s true strength lies in its comfort for casual days spent at home; cashmere throws blanket you with a temperature regulating warmth, making it ideal for lounging around your living space on wintry days. Thanks to its sumptuousness yet reasonable price point, cashmere is no longer just synonymous with cold weather attire but also the necessary comfort that comes along with cozying up indoors.

How do you take care of cashmere garments?

Taking care of your cashmere garments may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be! It's actually not hard at all - start by reading the label carefully to check for washing instructions. If possible, it's best to handwash garments in lukewarm water with a mild detergent. Avoid machine washing and drying as this could damage the fabric. Make sure you use only one capful of detergent per wash and rinse until there are no suds visible. After laundering, lay the garment flat on a towel and reshape before air-drying. Taking some extra time to pay attention to your cashmere garments is totally worth it - they'll last much longer if properly cared for!

Why is cashmere good for the cozy

Here's the buzz- Cashmere is the velvet of the winter wardrobe, so it’s no surprise that it’s the ideal material for the cozy at home experience. Not only is cashmere supremely soft, but the luxurious appeal of the natural fiber makes it the perfect choice for those looking to upgrade their home decor too. If you love cozy and the outdoor The Hive Experience boasts An Outdoor Serene Furniture Collection which includes the bee-utiful Cozy Blue Vibes and the Cozy Neutral Vibes to transform your space into a cozy yet luxurious ambience while cuddled up in your cashmere blanket. Talk about a cozy upgrade!

Cozy Blue Vibes Furniture CollectionThe Hive Experience - Cozy Neutral Vibes Furniture Collection  

Wrap up – why you should start incorporating cashmere into your wardrobe

Incorporating cashmere into you wardrobe may not seem like an obvious choice, but it is definitely one you should consider. Not only is this luxurious fabric unbelievably comfortable, but also very practical in a variety of settings. Cashmere is known for its breathability, which makes it a great layer when its cool out. Plus, it has the power to make any outfit look and feel more expensive without actually costing you a fortune - now that's the definition of winning. You won't regret taking the plunge and if you do, don't worry! You can always undo this decision by laundering your piece properly. In short, choose cashmere clothing and you'll never look back!

Cashmere is an amazing material for creating cozy clothing items for all seasons. Not only does it provide superior warmth and softness, but it’s also breathable and durable. Taking proper care of your garments will ensure they last longer and look more radiant over time. If you’re looking to cozy up at home in your living room a good cashmere blanket cape maybe the solution for you. With so many stylish options out there, there’s no reason not to start incorporating cashmere into your wardrobe today. So what are you waiting for? Go get yourself some cashmere and enjoy the feel of luxury and comfort

 

 

February 13, 2023 — Jeanette Scarboro
Top Home Design Trends for 2023

Top Home Design Trends for 2023

The top design trends in 2023 to watch out for and the list may suprise you.
December 24, 2022 — Jeanette Scarboro
Thanksgiving Jar

How Will You Start Off Thanksgiving?

Many years ago, a dear friend of mine gave me a book about being grateful and how it is beneficial to your health. I read it and it spoke to me! I was bursting with inspiration!

I immediately started a personal journal after reading “One Thousand Gifts” by Ann Voskamp, and from there created The Thankful Jar. Voskamp’s book is “a celebration of grace and a recognition of the power of gratitude,” and The Thankful Jar was the perfect, tangible way to express gratitude.

And even better, we can REVISIT all the things that we are thankful for, especially in times when we need those reminders the most. The jars are very visual and great for all ages.

On Thanksgiving Day, I leave the jar out, along with colorful paper and beautiful pens, and have family members write what they are thankful for. 
At some point in the day, I read them out loud.

To be timeless, the designer in me loves to use GREEN ribbon on the outside. Then, these uplifting jars are a focused way to express gratitude all year round.

Green & RED - Christmas. Green & PINK - Easter. Green & ORANGE - Fall. Buying sticky notes and ribbon in a rainbow of colors makes the jars versatile, creative, & gorgeous.

Any time I lose perspective of how abundantly blessed I am with good things in my life, I fill up my Thankful Jar. It truly helps me focus on being thankful in all the seasons of my life. And the ripple effect!! Seeing my children do the same throughout their college years, and even as young professionals, is a timeless gift that will continue to bring me joy and serve them and their families throughout their lives.

And to YOU! I hope The Thankful Jar can help illuminate all the wonderful things that are going on in your life on this day, on Thanksgiving Day, and bee-yond.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!


Sweetly Yours,

Jeanette

Scarboro Designs

November 24, 2022 — Jeanette Scarboro
Tags: thanksgiving
Why Hire a Designer in 2022

Why Hire a Designer in 2022

Even with so many pictures posted & articles written, some still wonder if it’s worth the investment to hire a design professional. When my team & I show up, we have every intention to fill the shoes & meet the needs. Clients have great ideas but so often zero time to execute them in a complete or timely manner. They need assistance pulling it together, and that’s exactly what we do!  

Interior Design is a skill that, when done correctly, enhances a space and the quality of the lives lived in it. An art that turns a house into a home! Designers truly help fulfill a need—they tell a visual story, and for that, among so many other reasons, hiring a design professional should no longer be seen as a splurge, but a choice that is as wise and sensible as hiring a plumber or an electrician. 

Keep reading for even more reasons why! 

Reason 1: Save Money 

Your home is one of—if not THE most expensive asset you own. Hiring a designer assures it is elevated to its best possible version. Once the project is complete, it’s time to stop the process and simply enjoy! Without a designer’s expert eye, people continue to wonder if the room is “done yet.” They’ve exhausted all their efforts, but wonder why it still doesn’t have that “designer look.” One can keep hauling “stuff” home—more & more “final touches,” and yet still miss the mark to produce a showcased design style.  This costly mistake can be avoided by using a professional who has a process that gets the job done concise & correct. 

 

Reason 2: Plan of Action

The all-important "plan" is where a true, professional assessment of your project takes place. Designers are trained to think spatially and out of the box so they can creatively visualize the end product and the best path to get you there. Their trained eye will likely notice things that you may miss. And their experience may offer solutions to common issues they've seen in many spaces. Having a specific action plan creates a timeline to move the project along and get to the end result quicker & easier. Designers listen & plan spaces to fit the way you live. Your home should reflect your personal style, lifestyle, and attitude towards life. If your space doesn’t reflect this—it’s time to hire a professional! Changing stages of life or family dynamics may be cause for tweaking your spaces. Anyone can purchase resources and move around items in a room, but an interior designer will sit down and connect on your personal & lifestyle and determine the best selections to layout all of the necessary components to help bring the visual story together.

 

 

Reason 3: Resources

There is so much out there in the current marketplace. Countless brick & mortar warehouses and showrooms, and infinite online stores, not to mention all the social platforms selling even more products and services. It is great to take advantage of all these resources, but time can be wasted researching all those products, brands, prices, and lead times. Frustration and stress often arise from too many choices and lack of confidence. Even more angst can arise given the supply chain delays of late. 

Interior Design professionals have a pulse on the industry, and are privy to information regarding stock items, custom items, and their corresponding order and transit times. There are options, selections, & information available to designers that may not available to the general public. The goal is to use the right resources to ensure it all pulls together without too many bumps & delays along the way.  

 

Reason 4: Connections 

A designer can build stronger bridges between you and your architect or contractor. The best results are when this happens early in the process so there are no mishaps in the overall plan.  The most successful projects are executed when the professionals involved are a team who speak the same language. The key in today’s marketplace is identifying the most reliable contractors and to utilize their time, skills, and expertise. 

 

Reason 5: Budget

The all-important budget is so very important to allocate at the very beginning of a project. A designer can help you determine this amount from the get go and help ease into the investment that’s about to take place. You can have a lower, realistic amount or a “must-not-go-over” amount. Either way, a designer will help you allocate & will also want to ensure they are also considered in the budget.  This allows them to plan the time required to meet expectations and complete your project. As a professional, they navigate their schedule to be there for all clients when decisions have to be made. A written contract is beneficial, so that everyone is communicating and there are no unmet expectations. They’ll plan the project to fit your design & lifestyle, but also to fit realistic budget expectations. 

 

The decision to hire a designer may seem difficult, but do not fear! Start by figuring out how much help you need, what that help is worth, and what you enjoy doing yourself. Hiring an Interior Designer can be the most rewarding decision you make for a complete, quality, design in the places where you do life.

We hope these tips help to guide you in your decision—it’s now yours to make!

 

Ready to go for it?

Take the first step by purchasing a 1- Hour Design Consultation with the Scarboro Designs Team. 

Want more information? Email us: Hello@TheHiveExperience.com.

Cover and Article Photos:  iStock 

Team Photo: Landry Marie Photography

 

 

Make Your Bed

Make Your Bed

This Spring, the focus has been on all the wonderful opportunities to refresh! Linens are always at the top of that list—Out with the old and in with the new!  They are a fascinating category, where some education is needed to fully understand them. My design clients always ask how a towel can be this price here, and another price there…. and sheets! There’s this thread count and that.

So, how do you maneuver through all that technical jargon?  It is not easy in a world that throws around terms like All-Natural, Percale, Sateen, and Cotton. Can all that lingo come in for a soft landing in your Happy Hive? Is there a gold standard to bring clarity to the chaos? My answer is yes!


THREAD COUNT
This term has become the buzzword for marketing luxury sheets. Thread count refers to the number of threads per square inch of fabric, and is a good indicator for selecting your perfect match of comfort! Single-ply cotton sheeting with a thread count between 200 and 400 is ideal for bedding. Sheets with thread counts above or below that range tend to feel thicker or rougher.

FABRIC CONSTRUCTION
This topic is confusing to most! The two most popular types of cotton sheet construction are Percale and Sateen. The best choice for you to make your bed is based on your lifestyle and texture preference: Percale will be lightweight with a matte finish and a crisp hand, whereas sateen is woven to create a silky surface, an elegant sheen, and tends to be a little thicker.

When looking to refresh a room and truly make the bed of your dreams, a lot more goes into it than just the right sheeting. Coverlets, Throws, and Pillows are additional options that (when done right) can turn “just a room” into a sweet sanctuary. And don’t forget to add the towels! Stone-washed, cotton towels that are thirsty and can dry in one cycle are a luxurious treat! Coordinate the bath linens with your bedding for the ultimate owner’s suite or a lavish guest-room getaway!

A cornerstone of our line is mixing & matching—If a client says CUSTOM, I’m ALL IN on creating the most fabulous fabrics with textures and patterns that are sophisticated and unique. It’s all about layering a look that is subtle but dimensional, using calming colorations and textural accents. The linens I use at Scarboro Designs, and that we proudly carry at The Hive Experience, are bee-yond luxurious. They are a practical way to achieve straightforward, stunning, relaxed luxury in your favorite spaces!

All of our Bed and Bath linens are generous in size and ready to create the look and feel that is perfectly you. We cover all the details—from washcloths and hand towels to pillow sham inserts—so you don’t have to run around pulling it all together! Want more inspiration?!— Don’t forget to check out (and save!) our Bed Diagram to create a textural dream design project that will have you sleeping soundly in no time!

 

Queen Size Bed

 

King Size Bed

June 02, 2021 — Jeanette Scarboro
4 Design Tips for the Perfect Outdoor Furniture

4 Design Tips for the Perfect Outdoor Furniture

Sitting outside and enjoying the weather is rejuvenating. Its a great time to trade urban grays for sunny days, to watch the new growth of plants and animal life, to be amazed at all the new little lives learning how to use their wings and take flight. My head fills with pulling together outdoor spaces and making them more inviting, adding touches that refresh. And how do I enhance my outdoor living space? I start with the perfect outdoor furniture.

Here are 4 design tips for the perfect outdoor furniture:

Tip 1: Quality pays off
Select outdoor furniture thats made with quality. Most of the manufacturers we sell have some craftsmen and trade secrets that youll want to take note of. Quality also matters because were filling our landfills daily with quick items that only last for a season. There are important steps in the manufacturing process to make outdoor living pieces that stand the test of time.

 

Tip 2: A lasting finish
Metal frames should be pre-finished with a nanoceramic ceramic pre-wash to increase paint adhesion. Each casting is hand polished to provide a smooth, finished surface for painting. After a multi-step cleaning process, the furniture receives a baked-on powder paint coat, much thicker and harder than conventional wet paint, followed by a hand applied antique finish. 

 

 

Tip 3: Durability in design
When you design your outdoor living space, look for cast aluminum with a superior grade molten aluminum hand-poured into molds made from exceptionally detailed woodcarvings; wrought aluminum features with heavy tubing, strengthened at stress points with interior wall supports and galvanized steel inserts, triple polished 360-degree welds and high-solids polyester, powder-coated finish.

 

Tip 4: Materials matter
Maximize your outdoor living space by choosing pieces that last. Stainless steel can offer both strength and corrosion-resistance for a long life if it has a high-grade content of chromium and nickel. Stainless steel with 360-degree welds that are hand polished offer maximum durability and a finished look.

The right fabrics boost outdoor performance when made with the finest materials and technology for longevity outdoors. Choose UV-resistant resin, vinyl and polyethylene wicker that is memory tested to 50,000 compressions and is hand-woven over the framesnatural teak thats plantation-harvested with frames with mortise and tenon construction. 

When designing your outdoor space remember less is often better, and that quality over quantity lends a simpler look and feel. And dont forget the accessories to add pops of character. The industry has stepped it up with outdoor rugs, trays and succulents that weather anything the weather has to offerin every season.  

Sweetly yours,

Jeanette

Cover Photo by Arcwind

How To Plan A Room: 3 Easy Steps

How To Plan A Room: 3 Easy Steps

Get A Room!

Have you ever meandered and wondered what the purpose of a particular room was used for in your own home? I have been in many homes, and I am always up for a game of name that room. I gently ask questions with my clients, “Where did you get that piece of furniture? How is the flooring working out in here? Who hangs out in this area?” If they answer only the cat or dog we are in serious trouble.

Photo by Alexandra Gorn

I have always enjoyed a good mystery. You have to piece things together to figure out what is going on. A room in your house should definitely not be a mystery. I am amazed to hear of people that have fully decorated a room and have spent some serious money and it is an unused space… What?!

Once a plan is in place, the mystery of the room can be solved. I have seen this over and over. As life changes take place, rooms need to be re-evaluated.

It’s best to come up with a room plan by first writing it down. Split it into three categories: Room, Purpose, and Function. E.g., When I was discussing the purpose of a client’s Family Room (Room) the husband disagreed on this being a space for homework. He considered the office a more suitable space. The wife did not want to give up her real estate in the office and have kids competing for time in her area that she needed for business. They talked through everything and reasoned that they would make the family room a place for children to play and accomplish study activities (Purpose).  It would be complete with individual desks on one wall for each child, sofa to watch movies, and game table for activities (Function).  They were both on the same plan.

Photo by Minh Pham

Step 1: Locating which Room needs your attention.

Step 2: Define the Purpose of the room. Is this room supposed to be an office, living room, or home gym, etc. What daily activities will be performed here. 

Step 3: Execute the Function of the room. Make a list of which items need to be here that help the purpose of the room. Moreover, note the items which need to be removed that hurt the purpose and the overall functionality of the room.

After that task is complete, it is time to execute the room plan. This is where the fun of designing and individualizing the area can take place. Sometimes a room is not being used because there is not enough light for the intended purpose. Limited seating can be a problem if this is their main entertainment area. Flooring can be problematic in a space if traffic flowing through can cause damage. So the elements of design are important for a good look but for functionality. It is always amazing when good communication takes place and the discussion leads to clients seeing how easy changes can be made to that room and it is well appreciated by every family member. It is a good feeling to know the purpose and function of each room.

Print out the printable below and get started on your Room Plan now!

 

 

 

Cover Photo by Collov Home Design

Sugar Cookie Recipe

Sugar Cookie Recipe

Hey, Sugar! What’s more Heartfelt than baking something sweet for (or with!) the ones you love? Enjoy our Queen Bee, Jeanette’s, absolute favorite Sugar Cookie Recipe from Betty Crocker!

 

Ingredients


Cookies
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla
½ teaspoon almond extract
1 egg
2 1/2 cups Gold Medal™ all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cream of tartar

Frosting
3 cups powdered sugar
3 to 5 tablespoons milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla
Food colors, if desired
Colored sugar or candy sprinkles, if desired

Steps

1.
In a large bowl, beat 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, the softened butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla, the almond extract and egg with an electric mixer on medium speed, or mix with a spoon, until well blended. Stir in flour, baking soda and cream of tartar. Divide dough in half; shape dough into 2 disks, and wrap in plastic wrap. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours.

2.
Heat oven to 375°F.

3.
Roll each disk on a lightly floured surface until 1/4 inch thick. Cut with 2- to 2 1/2-inch cookie cutters into desired shapes. On ungreased cookie sheets, place cutouts at least 2 inches apart.

4.
Bake for 7 to 8 minutes or until the edges are light brown. Cool 1 minute; remove from cookie sheets to cooling racks. Cool completely.

5.
In a medium bowl, beat 3 cups powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons milk and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla with spoon until smooth and spreadable. If frosting is too stiff to spread, add additional milk, 1 teaspoon at a time. Tint with food color. Spread frosting on cooled cookies. Decorate as desired with colored sugar or candy sprinkles. Let stand for about 4 hours or until frosting is set. Store covered in an airtight container at room temperature with waxed paper between layers.

 

Cover Photo by Joshua Hoehne on Unsplash

January 15, 2021 — Jeanette Scarboro
How Design Effects The Quality Of Your Life

How Design Effects The Quality Of Your Life

Is your living space healthy?

I have never experienced in my lifetime all that has happened in this present year. I don’t do New Year's resolutions but have always enjoyed having a focus word. Ironically enough, the word for me this year has been “peace”. I don’t know how defining it is, when all that surrounds us screams unrest.

The changed environment has allowed me more time for education in my field. I always enjoy this, along with many the complicated conversations that come along during trying times. Designers as the “Gateway for Health” has been a main focus of my continuing education, along with bringing value to design by building trust in the health of buildings. 

To bring trust and health back into buildings is a tremendous responsibility, and I understand why this trust has been weakened in the views of so many people. On a personal note, my Mom is in a care facility, and unfortunately, I am not privy to the quality of her HVAC, drywall, carpet, and fabrics. I do know the standards for each and can only hope everything was done to ensure the building is safe and healthy. But the truth is, there are immense risks to the vulnerable when short cuts are made in design. Which is why now more than ever, designers are vital. 

Knowing this, I strive to make the invisible problems have visible solutions and impactful outcomes for my clients by providing safety in the longevity of the buildings I design. Making my projects a “Gateway for Health”. These outcomes directly impact how my clients live out their lives from here on. I am fully aware of the many areas in design that affect health. While working on projects, I share frequently the latest and greatest that could make the project better and healthier, in addition to beautiful. Clients with whom I have the privilege to work will always be educated on the technology that is available—even if the options are over budget. I do get my hand slapped from time to time over budgets and timelines, but I am hired to bring VALUE and IDEAS that are not always well known. 

Regardless if you are a design client or a lover of The Hive Experience, please let me know how we can help you make your space healthier for you and those you love!

 

 

Photo credit: Logan Nolin on Unsplash  

October 02, 2020 — Jeanette Scarboro
How to Make Your Home Reflect your Lifestyle

How to Make Your Home Reflect your Lifestyle

After years in the Interior Design business, I have found that time & time again homes perform at their very BEST when personality & function align. It is a winning combination that creates the ultimate, intentional space. In order to figure out how to pull your home together and get the design to work for your lifestyle you need to ask yourself: What pace of life am I living right now?  

Is your home an active household, always on the go? 

Or does your household serve as a relaxing retreat away from the hustle of the busy world? 

One of the biggest mistakes people can make that will clog up their lifestyle flow is having a design that works to the contrary of them-Essentially competing, instead of complimenting them. Design is supposed to ease your life. Ease your health. Ease your day-to-day!  

After determining the pace of your home, the next step is doing a walk-through of the space. With the previous step in mind, write down what you need each room to accomplish in your life. Make sure your space has maximized seating and lighting. Write down what pieces you need to add, and what pieces are not working for you anymore. With each room’s potential written down, you create a catalyst and a chain reaction in your space where the design and lifestyle elements perfectly come together. The solutions are found quickly when you figure out how you ‘do life’ in your home. (Check out our ‘Get A Room’ blog for more on a room's purpose and function.)   

After you have analyzed each room, then you can proceed to the “Subtracting and Adding” phase. Say goodbye to all the items that have been hindering your lifestyle’s flow so you can make way for your desired space and satisfaction. Then comes the fun part - Adding all the new items that will make your place snap together! At TheHiveExperience.com, we are experienced in consulting on cool, inspired ideas to give the house the feel” our clients are truly looking for. We continuously curate exceptional, unique, & high-quality pieces for our clients’ needs. 

            

In light of current health & safety conditions, you might be facing a huge lifestyle change such as working-from-home. Or perhaps you’ve recently encountered a new job, new home, or have become an empty nester. These are all wonderful opportunities to hit the reset button on your entire space. Clear out the things of old, start FRESH, and get a huge jump on that lifestyle change! 

The economy and the pressures of a pandemic have really affected how we do daily life. It has really put our home & work space to the test, and has forced us to evaluate & ask ourselves critical questions that will have a large effect on our overall lifestyle and well-being. So the question remains – How do YOU want to spend your life in the space that you are in? 

 

 

Cover photo credit by: Maxim Ilyahov

August 08, 2020 — Jeanette Scarboro