5 Reasons Why You Need an Interior Designer Before Hiring a Contractor

Are you embarking on a home renovation journey? 

If you want to start off on the right foot, end with your dream home vision realized, and go through the whole process without pulling out your hair, then we highly recommend you start by considering the crucial role of an interior designer. Here are 5 compelling reasons why engaging with a designer before hiring a contractor is the smartest move you can make in order to build your dream home.

1. Accurate Cost Estimates

Without a preliminary plan in place, contractors won’t know if you want to add new decorative lighting, tile an entire focal wall instead of just the shower, or add decorative wood paneling. That means their bid will typically be lower than what is actually needed to execute your vision. An interior designer can provide detailed drawings that yield more precise estimates. Armed with a clearer understanding of the project's overall cost, you can make better-informed decisions and be prepared for any financial implications.

One example: Sally Smith came to me after she’d already hired a contractor who bid her $300k for her whole home remodel without materials. I told her the number sounded unrealistically low. While she knew the cost would increase, she was shocked when change order after change order brought the total cost closer to $800k to give her the design she had wanted from the beginning. 

2. Seamless Timing and Coordination

Good design takes time! Beginning the design process early helps ensure smooth collaboration between designers and contractors. Don't wait until after the demolition has begun to hire your interior designer! Engaging a designer first will place a reliable roadmap ahead. This approach yields multifaceted benefits: it provides valuable insight into comprehensive costs, prevents time constraints or delays and safeguards against impulsive design choices that often lead to costly change orders. At Vieve Interior’s we have a tried and true process to make sure our projects run smoothly.

Pro tip: Give yourself at least one month of design time for a single room, and up to 10 to 12 months for a full home redesign before construction begins. That way you’ll be able to get contractor bids, start the permit process, and have everything in order before you break ground.

3. Avoiding Design Mishaps

Doors & Windows and Appliances, oh my! These big ticket items have long lead times and must be ordered well in advance. Having a designer onboard from the start prevents design limitations that could compromise your space's functionality and aesthetics. 

A note: A designer will holistically consider whether windows should come all the way to the floor, or if you need wall space below for a nightstand or cabinet? They will determine if wall ovens are the most functional for you or if a range with ovens below will better create the open and airy feel you want in your new kitchen? Without knowing details like this ahead of time, you might order costly windows you don’t need or be stuck with a layout that isn’t inline with your vision.

4. Expert Design Insight & Curated Material Selection

General contractors are focused on execution and are typically NOT design experts! A good Interior designer will consider your vision, aspirations, and goals and infuse their artistic insight to turn your vision into a stunning reality. They also offer access to exclusive suppliers, high-quality materials, and unique fixtures and furnishings to elevate your home’s sophistication, ensuring it reflects your taste.

A note about Design-Build contractors: While a “design-build” company may be helpful, they are typically providing the drawings strictly to get permits and get your project going. They are not experts at curating tailored material selections or coming up with custom cabinet solutions. Most don’t do these things at all and and rely on you to select every finish, fixture. Some may offer material selection services, but limit your options to a small selection of vendors they favor for profit reasons. An interior designer will help ensure you don't get locked into subpar solutions that compromise your aesthetic or functional preferences.

One example: When I was brought into Mary Joes project I discovered her contractor was trying to push her into using man-made quartz countertops when she specifically wanted the unique glamor of Cristallo quartzite. That contractor not only didn’t know where to source such stone, he was also trying to guide the design decisions for his own profit margin. His focus was not her vision.

5. A Trustworthy Network

Experienced designers have established relationships with reliable general contractors and skilled tradespeople. Their recommendations ensure that you collaborate with professionals who can bring your vision to life seamlessly.

A note: Your designer will likely know contractors at who provide different levels of quality at various price points. They can guide you to those that are right for your preferences and project budget. 

Embarking on a home renovation is an exciting endeavor, and hiring an interior designer can be the key that unlocks its full potential. A skilled interior designer acts as your advocate, translating your dreams into tangible realities. From igniting creativity to overseeing logistics, their involvement lays the foundation for a successful transformation that speaks to your unique style and needs.

Ready to embark on your dream home renovation journey the right way? Contact us today to get started on a remodel project that promises both beauty and functionality. Your vision, our expertise – the perfect partnership for a stunning home transformation.

Interior Design Decor to Bring your Family Together for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and you know what that means – it's time for gratitude, reflection, and most importantly, gathering with loved ones! While the focus of the holiday is on the delicious food and cherished moments shared with family and friends, the ambiance created by your interior design can significantly enhance the overall experience. In this blog post, we'll share our expert designer tips to use creatively interior decor to bring your family together for Thanksgiving. As Elle Decor reminds us, Thanksgiving decor doesn’t have to be all browns, oranges, and golds. This joyful family holiday is a good opportunity to get creative so let’s spice things up a bit!

Now, we get it – you've got a lot on your plate (literally) with planning that delicious feast, coordinating travel plans, and navigating with family dynamics. So we’re here to make the decorating part as fun and easy as possible. We've thoughtfully included links to some of our favorite holiday decor items so you can craft an elevated holiday ambiance within the walls of your own home. We want you to get much more than just aesthetic inspiration from these affiliate links. When your well-appointed holiday haven warmly welcomes your family's gathering, the small commission we receive (at no additional cost to you) is a gesture of shared joy in celebrating this special season.

1. Stay Light and Bright

One of the most common home design elements that clients ask for is a “light and airy” vibe. Bring this trend into your thanksgiving decor by brightening your color pallet from a deeper orange to include peach, blush, and a heavy dose of white. It's like a breath of fresh air for your decor! Check out these subtly tinted glasses for a classy touch. This elevated look feels feminine and welcoming.

2. Make it Moody

Feeling a bit adventurous? Let's go moody this Thanksgiving! Start with a darker tablecloth like this grey linen one and layer in some dark flatware or candle sticks. We love the way light oranges, peach, or ochre are set off in contrast to the dark backdrop.

3. Bring in Floral Patterns

Granny-chic floral prints are all the rage and we’re loving this nostalgic trend! Layer your place settings with a variety of charming floral napkins (we love both these and these together as shown in the photo below) to bring the perfect cozy warmth to your fall-themed thanksgiving table. Complete the look with these sunflower napkin holders. Blooms all around!

4. Feel the Fuschia

Magenta, purple, hot pink – yes, please! In the wake of the Barbie movie, these saturated tones will give your holiday table the perfect pop this season. These khaki linen napkins with hot pink scalloped trim are the perfect addition to a fun holiday dinner table.

5. Stand out with Unique Dishware

If you’re into an eclectic look, unique dishware is the perfect way way to jazz up the setting of the main event: your dining room table. We love this Morris & Co. Cotswold Dinnerware Collection. It's all about making a statement!

6. Bring in Texture with Boucle

Pulling in warm textures is the perfect way to get your home feeling cozy for the holiday season. These boucle pumpkins add a soft neutral touch to your table or mantle decor. 

7. Soften Things Up with Velvet

Create a cozy haven by adding some velvet throw pillows to your sofa and a velvet table runner to the dinner table. Soft, snuggly, and perfect for the season!

8. Keep it Simple

Sometimes less is more. This oversized table cloth, check napkins, and a simple flower arrangement paired with white dishware would be just enough to set the stage for your family gathering if you’re going for a more minimal chic vibe.

9. Add orange and spice and everything nice

If you're feeling more of a traditional vibe this year, play up the orange with this lovely garland or orange napkins. Try keeping the palette more monochromatic for a modern look, or pull some red in with your orange decor for a look that can seamlessly transition from Thanksgiving to Christmas to save you time, money, and even storage space.

10. Weave in Natural Materials

Bringing in natural elements like woven placemats or even these woven pumpkins creates a casual vibe that feels grounded and earthy yet refined.

11. Bring in Seasonal Blooms

Whether you drape a garland of greenery, spread out small vases across the table, or opt for a dramatic large arrangement, fresh flowers are a must! We especially love bringing in seasonal blooms like dahlias, mums, or even sunflowers.  Don’t forget to decorate the buffet table, your entryway, and even guest bathrooms with floral arrangements to give greet guests wherever they turn.

12. Gather Outside

And hey, if you're in sunny southern California like us, you know the weather's usually on your side. Take the party outside! Light up the space with candle sand string lights if you can. And if the forecast looks a little chilly, consider adding blankets to each chair to keep your guest comfortable. It's a fantastic alternative, especially if you're short on indoor space!

So, there you have it – our tips for decking out your home in style this Thanksgiving! We hope you find these ideas as exciting as we do. And remember, it's not just about aesthetics; it's about creating a warm and inviting space where your loved ones can come together and make cherished memories.

If you love these holiday design tips be sure to sign up for our newsletter to get home decor and interior design tips for every season and all the days in between. Have a fantastic Thanksgiving, everyone!

The Modern Parents Guide to Transforming Your Kids’ Room into a Playful Luxury

Photo credit: @citychic4ever__ on Instagram

If you're like most modern parents, you want to give your children the best of everything. Creating a modern luxury kids bedroom that is truly customized for your child is a special way to do just that! Not only are you adding beauty to another room of your home, you're creating a sacred space for them to grow, learn, and form life-long memories—and maybe even get a good night's sleep! With so many different interior design options out there, we know it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've put together this guide for modern parents who want to create a modern luxury kid's bedroom design that is both beautiful and functional. We'll show you how to incorporate special interior design details that will make your little one's space truly unique. So whether you're starting from scratch or simply updating an existing room, let us help you create a playful luxury bedroom that will be loved by both parents and children alike!

1. Set the Stage with a Decorative Wall or Ceiling Treatment

Setting the stage for a beautiful space starts with the walls and ceiling. Instead of just painting them, you can take it a step further and add wall paneling or fun wallpaper as a backdrop for your child’s budding creativity. Wall paneling or wallpaper can lend an extra element of charm and vibrancy to the room, making it feel cozy and unique. For example, a vibrant floral pattern may provide the perfect pop of color in a modern luxury kids bedroom for girls while a dark tongue and groove paneling can create a moody handsome vibe for a modern luxury kids bedroom for boys. These extra details will add a sophisticated flair to a classy kids room.

2. Tailor the Space with Custom Millwork

When creating the perfect modern luxury kids bedroom, investing in custom millwork can be the key to making the space both charming and functional. A great way to maximize space in a room with multiple kids is to add custom bunk beds with lots of cozy features. This will give your kids lots more floor space to spread out and play, which we know they will love. You can also include a built-in desk, a reading nook, or custom closet to allow for optimal storage while adding a beautiful high-end look. With a few strategic touches and thoughtfully designed elements, you can create an environment most children would love to call home!

3. Create a Sleep Haven with Custom Kids Bedding

You can never go wrong with a cozy bed, as it is sure to be the focal point of your modern luxury kids bedroom design, providing them with a comfortable place to relax. Create the perfect cozy atmosphere by mixing and matching ready-made bedding with custom pillows or a custom quilt that compliment your chosen theme. Have fun playing around with different colors and patterns, too! Add an extra special touch with a fancy custom canopy in your little girl's bedroom design to make her feel like a princess. Or match the bedding to custom window treatments for an overall unified design in your modern luxury boys bedroom. With all these tips in mind, you're sure to have a charming kids bedroom your children will love for years to come!

Photo Credit: @studiopeake on Instagram

4. Create a Comfortable Play Space with a Soft Durable Rug

To give your child the optimal hang-out space, layer in a soft and durable rug where they can play without inhibition. Whether you choose a rug with a modern-color block pattern, a traditional medallion pattern in a bold color, or a colorful kids print, make sure it will stand up to wear and tear! We recommend wool rugs for superior durability, but there are many synthetic options that are also fade and stain resistant for easy care. Fun patterns, bold colors and unique details can really help bring your child’s special space to life—adding beauty while creating memories they'll never forget!

5. Dress Up the Windows with Custom Window Treatments

When dressing the windows for your modern luxury kids bedroom, functionality and convenience are key. Black out drapes or roman shades are great for those all-important toddler naps or Saturday sleep-ins during the inevitable teen growth spurts! But that doesn't mean you can't have fun with it. Add a sense of luxury by coordinating fabrics or get creative with trim or cornice shapes to add unique flair. You can even customize the finishing touches like scalloped edges, pom poms, or tiebacks to create that charm you and your child will love.

6. Invest in Fun Pieces to Add a Unique Design Factor

Adding a unique design element to your kid’s bedroom can really bring the space to life!  A bright red desk chair or a vintage dresser with cute knobs could be the perfect way to add some pizzazz. A small tent that they can crawl into with a good book, or a cozy bean bag chair they can sprawl out on while they play, are both great additions. A hip hanging chair, adorned with colorful pillows, will add life to any corner and give your child a special place to unplug, relax, and embark upon imaginative adventures. An oversized giraffe will turn your little one's room into a whimsical jungle. Or if you’re feeling extra daring, try incorporating a neon sign over the bed or hang some string lights on the wall. These small details can help add an unexpected twist to your kid’s bedroom that is still luxurious and totally comfortable!

7. Kick-it Up a Notch with Decorative Lighting

When it comes to designing a modern luxury kids bedroom, don't forget the lighting! Lamps can be a really fun way to add beautiful elements as well as practicality. We love table lamps with custom shades and a reading light for late night fairytale journeys. For an extra special touch, why not add a fun and unique chandelier or bedside sconces? This will help you create a personalized look that your children won't forget!

8. Involve your Child in the Design Process

Creating a modern luxury kids’ bedroom for your boy or girl isn't just about the furniture and design elements; having them involved in the process is key. Letting them help pick out colors, furnishings, artwork and accessories will make the space all the more special. And we think there’s no better place for design inspiration than a kid’s imagination! 

Save this blog post for later on your Pinterest Kids Room Ideas Board!

With these interior design tips, you can give your kids the modern luxury kids bedroom of their dreams. For more interior design inspiration and tips to decorate your Orange County home, be sure to sign up for our newsletter!

15 Interior Design Elements to Make Your Home Feel Cozy for the Holidays

Picture this: you’re snuggled up on your sofa under a warm blanket, drinking a cup of hot cocoa, surrounded by beautiful greenery, your favorite scented candles, and a warm fire! What do you feel? Cozy! Now that winter is coming, you’re probably getting ready to dress up your home for the holiday season. To help, we’ve put together our favorite 15 interior design elements to make your home feel cozy for the holidays.

1. INCORPORATE TEXTURE 

Texture as an interior design element can enhance your home with the use of baskets, wood bead garland, or a soft rug or blanket that draws attention to different details throughout your home. Rougher textures like warm rustic wood help make a space more lived in and homey while soft fabrics and furs are inviting and intimate.

2. ADJUST YOUR LIGHTING 

The light fixtures and light bulbs you use in your home have a profound effect on the mood and tone of your house. The whiter and brighter the light bulb, the more stark and harsh the lighting will feel, leaving your home about as uninviting as a cold hospital room. For winter time, try using “soft white” light bulbs (2700 Kelvin or lower) to give off a warm and inviting glow.

3. Fill Your Home with Candles

Candles are a great interior design element that bring tranquility and a cozy feel to your home. Candlesticks with golden accents can be used as center pieces on the dining room table and as an additional décor element on mantles or coffee tables. Choose earthy and spiced candles to bring the enticing aroma of winter into your home.

4. USE EARTHY TONES 

Earthy tones provide an inviting, warm and friendly feeling during winter time. Since earth tones are inspired by mother nature, you can easily incorporate earth tone colors by bringing nature into your home—add house plants, pine cones, real wood and other interior design décor that uses natural elements. This season, focus on warm camel or deep brown tones, rusty red-oranges of fallen leaves, or golden yellow-orange like the sun to warm things up in your home.

5. ADD THROW BLANKETS

Adding throw blankets throughout your house is an easy way to make your home feel warm and inviting. We recommend either a faux fur or knit blanket to create the warm feeling that you crave on a cold winter's eve. Throw blankets can be added to accent chairs, your living room sofa, family room ottoman, in a woven basket, or draped at the foot of your bed. During the holiday season, you can find throw blankets just about anywhere. Personally, I love Amber Lewis' collection at Anthropologie, but you can also find great deals at your local HomeGoods, Wayfair and Amazon.

6. INCORPORATE THROW PILLOWS 

Throw pillows are an interior design element that can be easily switched out to add warmth and holiday cheer to your home. Try adding throw pillows in warm winter hues like a deep rusty red and dark emerald green, or cool icy blues balanced with cozy soft cream to sofas, chairs, or on your bed.

7. Get a Winter-Themed Front Doormat

A winter-themed front doormat serves several purposes. First, a door mat keeps the dirt on your snazzy winter boots from entering your home. Second, it reduces the possibility of slipping, especially if you have hardwood floors or tile. Last but not least, you can express yourself and welcome your guests to your home with a cheeky holiday message or a more formal and classy holiday cheer. If you love a good DIY project for the holidays, you can also design a DIY winter welcome mat.

8. ADD ACCENT & AREA RUGS

Do not be afraid to add accent and area rugs to your home. Hardwood and tile flooring can make your home feel cold and sterile. Area rugs can anchor a furniture arrangement or add color to a blank hallway all while adding cozy warmth to cold toes. Another designer secret—it is okay to use multiple rugs in one room! To save on cost, layer a smaller one-of-a-kind vintage rug over a larger inexpensive woven rug. Or add a faux fur accent rug to add warmth. Doubling up on the rugs can add to the cozy feeling of the room.

9. INCLUDE WINTER GREENERY 

The addition of holly, spruce and pine can bring in the aroma and memory of your favorite ski trip or picking out your first Christmas tree. This winter greenery is an interior design element that can be used to create beautiful centerpieces, on stair railings, or on your mantel above the fireplace. And a bed of greenery is also the perfect place to nestle in some of those fragrant winter candles!

10. HIGHTLIGHT YOUR FIREPLACE

Decorate the mantel above your fireplace with candles, greenery and pine cones to highlight your fireplace. Display firewood next to your fireplace to inspire people to use it (another way to incorporate earthy tones into your home), and position furniture around the fireplace to encourage gatherings. This is also a great place for that cozy basket of blankets!

11. Bring in Some Sparkle and Shine

Metal accents in different finishes add a magical sparkle to your holiday decor. Try incorporating some shiny silver candlesticks on your dining room table or buffet. Antique gold bells hung on a coat rack or door will also help bring in those festive feelings and holiday cheer.

12. CREATE A COFFEE & COCOA STATION 

A coffee and hot cocoa station is a creative interior design element that can easily be added to the kitchen of your home. This station says to guests, “stay a while and get comfortable!” We encourage you to place marshmallows, candies and peppermint inside the station to elevate your coffee and hot chocolate beverages. And because, let’s face it, now is the time to let loose on that diet plan, and enjoy yourself and your company!

13. SPRUCE UP WITH A SLIPCOVER 

A slipcover is a simple interior design element that can make a major difference to your overall decor. To fit in with your winter theme, consider changing the color of your sofa or dining room chairs with a slipcover. Choose a plush and soft sofa cover to increase comfortability or a velvet dining chair slipcover to add a little luxe.

14. ADD COFFEE TABLE BOOKS 

We encourage the use of coffee table books year-round, but this is an interior design element that can be easily updated to match the season. These books can inspire conversation, give people an idea of who you are and what you like, as well as invoke positive emotions. In the winter time, find coffee table books with a winter or holiday theme to get your family and your guests in the holiday spirit

15. DEDICATE A PLACE FOR HOLIDAY CARDS OR PHOTOS

There are so many creative and cozy ways to display your holiday cards—from decorative card holders, to DIY projects you can do with your kids or family (like turning cards into ornaments), to more elegant displays like hanging holiday cards over your mantle. Whatever you decide, dedicate a special space in your home to sentimental holiday cards for an extra cozy interior design feel.  

Themed photo collages are another beautiful reminder of the holiday season with family and friends. Bring out old photos from holidays throughout the years and design a holiday gallery wall. To bring even more comfort, put these photo collages in a rugged wooden frame to add texture to the walls. 

Need a little extra help beyond our 15 interior design elements to make your home feel cozy for the holidays?

We’d love to help. Set up a consultation with Viève Interiors today.