Podcasts are perfect for learning on the go. Shows like "The Chaise Lounge" and "Design Matters" feature interviews with top designers and explore the world of interior design in-depth.
Interior Design Apps
Apps can be incredibly helpful for planning and visualizing your design projects. Apps like Houzz and Planner 5D allow you to create detailed floor plans and experiment with different styles and layouts.
Workshops and Events
Attending workshops and events can provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities. Urban Designer Read about the best Eco-Friendly Design. Window Treatment Specialist Look for local design workshops, trade shows, and industry conferences to immerse yourself in the design community.
Conclusion
Interior design is a fascinating field with endless opportunities for learning and creativity. With these resources at your fingertips, you're well on your way to becoming a design pro.
How to Choose the Right Interior Designer for Your New York City Home
Introduction
Choosing the right interior designer for your New York City home can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. With so many talented professionals in the city, where do you even start? This guide will walk you through the steps to find the perfect match for your unique needs and style.
Why Hire an Interior Designer?
Hiring an interior designer isn't just for the rich and famous. A good designer can save you time, money, and headaches by helping you avoid costly mistakes and ensuring your vision comes to life. Plus, they bring a trained eye to create a cohesive, stylish, and functional space.
Understanding Your Needs and Style
Before you even start looking for a designer, take some time to understand what you want.
Assessing Your Personal Style
Are you into modern minimalism, or do you prefer a cozy, traditional look? Browse magazines, Pinterest, and design websites to gather inspiration. This will help you communicate your style to potential designers.
Defining the Scope of Your Project
Are you redesigning a single room or your entire home?
Researching Potential Designers
Now that you know what you need, it's time to find some candidates.
Online Resources
Websites like Houzz, Yelp, and the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) can help you find local designers and read reviews.
Word-of-Mouth Recommendations
Ask friends, family, and colleagues if they can recommend anyone. Personal referrals can give you valuable insights into a designer's work and personality.
Visiting Showrooms and Galleries
Check out local showrooms and galleries to see designers' work firsthand. This can give you a sense of their style and quality.
Reviewing Portfolios
Once you have a list of potential designers, review their portfolios carefully.
Key Elements to Look For
Look for a diverse range of projects, attention to detail, and creativity. Make sure their work aligns with your style preferences.
Matching the Designer's Style with Yours
A designer's portfolio should resonate with your vision. If their past projects excite you, they might be a good fit.
Conducting Interviews
Narrow down your list to a few designers and set up interviews.
Preparing Questions
Ask about their experience, design process, timeline, and how they handle challenges. Also, inquire about their availability and how they charge for their services.
Assessing Communication Skills
Good communication is key to a successful project. Make sure the designer listens to your ideas and can articulate theirs clearly.
Checking References
Don't skip this step! It's crucial to get feedback from past clients.
Contacting Previous Clients
Ask for a list of references and contact them. Inquire about their experience, the quality of work, and any issues that arose during the project.
Evaluating Feedback
Pay attention to recurring themes in the feedback. Were clients happy with the final result? Did the designer stay within budget and timeline?
Discussing Budget and Costs
Be upfront about your budget and understand what you're getting into financially.
Setting a Realistic Budget
Determine what you're willing to spend and communicate this to your designer. They should be able to work within your budget or let you know if your expectations need adjustment.
Understanding Pricing Models
Some designers charge a flat fee, while others bill hourly or take a percentage of the project cost. Make sure you understand how they charge and what's included.
Understanding the Design Process
A clear understanding of the design process will help you know what to expect.
Initial Consultation
This is where you discuss your ideas, budget, and timeline.
Design Development
The designer will create detailed plans and present options for materials, colors, and furniture. You'll review these together and make decisions.
Implementation and Follow-Up
The designer will oversee the implementation, ensuring everything goes smoothly. After completion, they may follow up to address any issues.
Legal and Contractual Considerations
Before signing on the dotted line, make sure you're clear on all legal aspects.
Reviewing Contracts
Read the contract carefully. Bohemian Design It should outline the scope of work, payment schedule, timeline, and any other important details.
Understanding Terms and Conditions
Clarify anything that's unclear and make sure you're comfortable with the terms. Don't hesitate to ask for modifications if needed.
Trusting Your Instincts
Finally, trust your gut. If you feel comfortable and confident with a designer, that's a good sign. Your home is a personal space, and you need someone who understands and respects that.
Conclusion
Choosing the right interior designer for your New York City home is a significant decision, but by following these steps, you can find someone who will bring your vision to life. Remember to take your time, do your research, and trust your instincts. With the right designer, your home can become a true reflection of your style and personality.
The Top Interior Design Trends in New York City for 2024
Introduction
New York City is a melting pot of cultures, styles, and trends, making it a hub for cutting-edge interior design. As we step into 2024, the city's homes and apartments are showcasing a blend of innovation and tradition. From sustainable practices to smart home technologies, let's dive into the top interior design trends that are shaping NYC's living spaces this year.
Embracing Minimalism
Minimalism continues to reign supreme, offering a breath of fresh air in the bustling city environment.
Clean Lines and Simple Forms
The focus is on sleek, uncluttered designs with clean lines and simple forms. This trend emphasizes functionality and aesthetic harmony, creating spaces that feel open and serene.
Decluttering and Open Spaces
Decluttering is key to achieving the minimalist look. Open spaces, free of unnecessary items, allow for better flow and a more relaxed atmosphere. This trend encourages homeowners to keep only what is essential and meaningful.
Sustainable Design
As environmental concerns grow, sustainable design has become a pivotal trend in NYC.
Eco-Friendly Materials
Designers are increasingly using eco-friendly materials such as reclaimed wood, recycled metals, and organic fabrics. These materials not only reduce the environmental footprint but also add a unique, rustic charm to interiors.
Energy-Efficient Lighting
Energy-efficient lighting, including LED and solar-powered options, is gaining popularity.
Bold Color Palettes
While minimalism thrives on neutrality, 2024 also sees a surge in bold color palettes.
Statement Walls
Statement walls in vibrant hues like deep blues, rich greens, and fiery reds are making waves. These bold choices add character and focal points to rooms, breaking the monotony of neutral tones.
Vibrant Accents
Bright and colorful accents, such as cushions, rugs, and artwork, are being used to inject energy and personality into spaces. These pops of color can transform a room from bland to lively.
Smart Home Integration
Smart homes are no longer a futuristic concept; they're a present-day reality.
Voice-Activated Assistants
Voice-activated assistants like Alexa and Google Home are becoming standard in NYC apartments. They offer convenience by controlling lighting, temperature, and security systems with simple voice commands.
Automated Lighting and Security
Automated lighting and security systems enhance both the functionality and safety of homes. These systems can be programmed to adjust based on the time of day or occupancy, adding a layer of intelligence to everyday living.
Biophilic Design
Biophilic design, which integrates nature into indoor spaces, is increasingly popular.
Indoor Plants and Green Walls
Indoor plants and green walls not only beautify interiors but also improve air quality and boost mental well-being. They're a simple way to bring the calming effect of nature indoors.
Natural Light Utilization
Maximizing natural light through large windows, skylights, and open floor plans is a key aspect of biophilic design. Natural light makes spaces feel more open and inviting while reducing the need for artificial lighting.
Multifunctional Spaces
With space at a premium, multifunctional rooms are a necessity in NYC.
Home Offices
Home offices have become crucial as remote work continues to be prevalent. These spaces are designed to be both functional for work and stylish enough to blend with the home's overall aesthetic.
Flexible Living Areas
Flexible living areas that can serve multiple purposes-such as a living room that doubles as a guest room-are highly sought after.
Textural Variety
Mixing different textures adds depth and interest to interiors.
Layered Textiles
Layered textiles, like combining velvet cushions with wool throws, create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This trend is all about tactile experiences that make a home feel warm and welcoming.
Mixed Materials
Mixing materials such as metal, wood, and glass can add a dynamic and modern touch to interiors. This eclectic approach allows for creativity and personal expression.
Artisanal and Handcrafted Pieces
There's a growing appreciation for artisanal and handcrafted decor.
Unique Decor
Unique decor items, like handwoven baskets or custom pottery, add a personal touch to interiors. These pieces often tell a story and bring character to a space.
Custom Furniture
Custom furniture, designed to fit specific spaces and needs, is becoming more popular. It offers a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics, tailored to the homeowner's vision.
Vintage and Retro Styles
Nostalgia plays a big role in 2024's design trends.
Mid-Century Modern Revival
Mid-century modern design, with its clean lines and functional forms, is making a comeback. This style brings a timeless elegance to interiors, combining the best of old and new.
Antique Accents
Antique accents, like vintage mirrors or heirloom furniture, add a touch of history and sophistication. These pieces can create a striking contrast when paired with contemporary design elements.
Luxurious Textures
Luxurious textures add a touch of opulence to any space.
Velvet and Silk
Velvet and silk fabrics are being used for everything from cushions to drapes. These materials exude luxury and comfort, making them perfect for creating elegant interiors.
Plush Carpets and Rugs
Plush carpets and rugs not only add warmth but also a sense of luxury underfoot. They are an excellent way to define spaces and add texture to a room.
Monochromatic Themes
Monochromatic themes create a cohesive and sophisticated look.
Black and White Decor
Black and white decor remains a classic choice. This timeless combination can be both bold and understated, making it versatile for various design styles.
Shades of Grey
Shades of grey, from light to dark, offer a modern and sophisticated palette. This theme is perfect for creating a serene and elegant environment.
Statement Lighting
Lighting is not just functional; it's also a key design element.
Chandeliers and Pendant Lights
Chandeliers and pendant lights are being used as statement pieces. These fixtures can transform a room, adding drama and elegance.
Sculptural Light Fixtures
Sculptural light fixtures double as works of art. These unique designs can be a focal point in any room, adding both light and artistic flair.
Personalized Spaces
Personalization is key to making a house feel like a home.
Starting with a comprehensive walk through of your home and/or review of your plans, we gather your ideas and desires for your home. Next, designs are created with in-house drawings, renderings, and design boards. After your approvals, we facilitate costs, create a schedule, and begin ordering. Upon work commencing, we manage contractors, oversee progress, inspect and place deliveries. Finally, styling will finish your home and now it’s time to host your housewarming party!
As soon as possible! Lara can come in at any point, but we’ll be the most helpful during the architectural phase for new construction or large additions/renovations. Knowing where the furniture, lighting, etc. will be going BEFORE construction starts can often prevent costly re-dos.
Anything for the interior of your home! Lara shops for, or has custom made in one of her artisan workrooms, any of the following: flooring, countertops, tile, hardware, paint, wallpaper, plumbing fixtures, lighting fixtures, bathroom fixtures, kitchen fixtures & appliances, furniture, outdoor furniture, fabrics, rugs, window treatments, pillows, bedding, artwork, mirrors, & accessories. Lara has established relationships with many trade-only manufacturers, giving her access to the most exceptional and unique items not available to the public.
Our full-service interior design firm will take your home design project from start to finish. From creating tailored-made, innovative designs, to implementing them, to overseeing construction, then ordering, installing, and finally to styling, we do it all. We are with you every step of the way to ensure no detail is overlooked and all goes according to plan. Under Lara & her team’s watchful eye, you can relax and enjoy the process.
Whatever works best for you! If you have a contractor you love, we are happy to work with them. If you need awesome recommendations or want to compare estimates, Lara will gladly refer her amazing team!
Yes! Our kitchens and most bathroom designs include Lara’s custom cabinetry. Built-ins such as bookcases, TV units, mudroom benches & cubbies, fireplace mantels, wall paneling, detailed moldings…you name it, we can do it beautifully and typically faster than any cabinetry company.
Yes! Lara loves to travel and meet clients wherever they reside. The same expert design processes apply for out-of-state projects to ensure a smooth and seamless experience. Although most of our clients reside in Westchester, NY and Greenwich CT, Lara has completed projects in many other locations.
Our project budget minimum is $150K (construction and décor costs). Each year we take a couple of projects that fall under this depending on location and other variables. Please fill out the form on our Contact Page with your design details to see if we’d be a good fit, we’d love to hear from you!
Great! Please fill out our form on our Contact Page, the more details you share, the better! Or call our office at 914-939-5777, we look forward to hearing from you!
Absolutely! Lara purposefully limits the number of projects she takes on at a time so she can personally create and oversee each one. Forging long lasting relationships with clients is something she is proud of and why past client’s consistently call her back.