Wow- what a break I’ve taken!

The best way to describe my days right now is organized chaos. As a family, we decided to make the big decision to relocate and within two weeks we moved. Now, I realize that quick moves are not possible for most people. We have young children and very little kept us for just pulling the trigger and moving forward. I should say that we’ve moved again- we have moved many times in a few years time and it does not ruffle me too much.

There is BIG benefit in living simply, clutter free, and knowing what you have and using what you have. It does not weigh you down during life changes. Our closets were not full, the attic had five bins, drawers were not stuffed, and most items were in containers. I truly can move in a day. My stuff was not an obstacle or a stress factor in our transition.

Do I have it all together? Heck no. This is me in an organized yet chaotic moment in time. Why chaotic? Well, we are in a temporary rental situation until we find our home. The children are already in school and finishing out the year- little people are so resiliant. I already have doctors appointments scheduled, swimming lessons planned, and am heading on vacation soon. I’ve only been here for two weeks and I wonder why I’m spinning.

I find that the sooner I’ve got it all figured out (I’m controlling) then we’ll have complete peace. Hmmmm- the truth is it just does not work that way. I’ve said that I believe new chapters in our lives are like riding a wave. You really do have to let some things take time and fall where they are supposed to. So, I’m slowing down the rush and getting out my notebook to capture my thoughts and new discoveries.

I continue to finalize design projects and will be sharing those moments and final photographs within the next months. In the meantime, my business is also undergoing a new chapter. I’m starting with new clients, a new name, and new direction very soon and look forward to seeing how all of that plays out. My e-Design and virtual services are still available!

So, do a bit of organizing, clear the clutter, and ride the wave with me and my new adventure. Love the space you’re in!

Organizing a space is a great goal to have for the weekend. If you dread any type of house project this weekend, think of a 10 minute organizing task. My quick fix this weekend is going to be directed towards our laundry room/family landing zone. I have the space and the solutions but it’s needing attention.

I’ve got a board dedicated to laundry rooms and those I’d love to have.  If you need a bit of inspiration take a look at this crisp space and then see more here.

 See what you accomplish in just ten minutes. Be sure to come back and share your results!

My latest Go Savvy e-Design inspiration board addressed a home office that was in need of lighting, storage, and style. The client shared images of their current office as well as images of other rooms in her home. The style direction needed to be casual, elegant, and traditional.

Creating warmth: I stayed with warm wood tones and metal finishes throughout the space that are antiqued and/or brass. Framing french doors with multi-colored curtains will pull in color and pattern- unifying existing carpet color.

Lighting: Lighting is so important in any space but task lighting in an office is a must. Lighting in this space includes desk, floor lamp, sconces, and a ceiling solution. There may be an opportunity for additional lighting depending on the cabinet solution she chooses.  I do like to have task lighting (built-in or recessed and directed) that light up cabinetry or open shelves. (side note: control your lighting with dimmers)

I love adding chandeliers (or two) in an office. This option is still flush mount but adds the jewel the space needs.

Storage: We’ve considered cabinet options vs. a built-in unit; however, the initial look included open shelving with cabinets for hidden storage. The desk wall would combine floating shelves and framed art/photos for an added personal touch. All organizing bins and binders that are seen should be of similar look/color to keep the aesthetic appeal.

If you are interested in seeing ideas to transform your space, e-Design is a great option. See e-Design services, here.

Decorating our homes and getting our spaces where we want them is not an instant fix–though I do love sharing fast fix tips! The process of creating a new interior style takes time. As a professional, I spend a lot of time just searching for the items, materials, and colors to help clients determine the style and feeling they want in a space. If you are not sure of where to begin, try this:

Find a piece of furniture or accessory item that you love. What is it that you love about it? Is it the color, the shape, the texture, the finish, the clean lines… If this is the feel or style you want in your space then take a picture and keep it with you when you shop for your space.  Be patient when pulling your space together and you’ll be happy with your decisions.

Lotus Bar Cabinet by Century Furniture

This fabulous cabinet is a launching point for a clients bathroom – but – it’s a bar. They’ll get the look they love with the function they need because the idea and the style has now been defined. I’m researching options that will work for them but keeping this look in mind.

Patience and inspiration goes a long way when working on house projects or designing a space. Do your research and Love the Space You’re In!

 

There is a lot of great value in hiring a professional. See gosimplysavvy.com for all services (in-home or e-Design options available for both organizing and interior styling).

You can change the entire look of a space just by changing your color focus. Update your look with a new accent color – just be sure to repeat the color for it to make style sense and show intention. Showing the same color in three ways is always a good rule to follow.

Would you choose red as an accent or use it as a focal point?

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