Northwest Client Design Recommendations
Consultation Notes My clients live in a 1950’s home on the northwest side of Grand Rapids with their two daughters. They both have great taste & an eye for good design; however, they have had a hard time “finishing” or refining some of the rooms in their home. They describe their style (or desired style) as warm, modern, clean, lived-in, Scandinavian, and comfortable. He is inspired by his Swedish culture. He likes how things “fit” and just look “right” when designed well (graphic design is a great representation of this for him). She is inspired by textiles (especially in Swedish design) and nautical prints (stripes). Both like grays, blues, and green as accent colors, but are open to others. They also don’t mind mixing metal finishes. In addition to “finishing” the rooms, the couple also needs better lighting in some places. The rooms we are focusing on are the Living Room, Dining Room, Master Bedroom, and Child’s room
Designer Goals & Beliefs My goal is to provide inspiration, recommendations, and the steps to make my clients’ current home design match their future aspirations. I will do this through listening to their needs, investigating their personal style (and Pinterest ), researching the best options for them, and pushing them to think of ideas or options they may never have considered. I believe for a home to feel “lived-in” yet clean & inviting, one needs to find a balance between “old” & “new” furnishings. I will utilize the great pieces my clients already have in addition to providing recommendations for new & vintage items to add to their home collection. Homes where furniture and colors match perfectly feel less natural & lived-in than those that have a more “collected" or curated pallet. Additionally, to make a home feel warm/comfortable without feeling too sterile, I believe one needs to incorporate a variety of textures (wood, linen/textiles, etc.). I will keep this in mind with all of my recommendations.
Living Room
Living Room Comments Since you already have the map, graphic painting, vintage painting, and Ikea chair in shades of blue, blue should be the primary accent color to your neutrals of white, grey, and brown (couch, walls, dining set). Because your walls are white, though, additional art and accessories (small items for mantle, shelves, etc.) can really be any color. This will help make the room not feel too “matchy-matchy”. Anchor the room & bring in a new, warm textile on the floor with the floor squares. These squares can be neutral or colorful by your choice, but I recommend using the “cowhide” look. This option is stylish and makes a statement, but in neutral tones. I am recommending you use a blue color in the dining room floor textile, so using more browns/whites on this side of the room will help neutralize the space. Compared to some of the other pattern options, I think this choice makes the room feel grown-up, but still comfortable and kid-friendly. I recommend swapping out the existing end tables & lamps & replacing them with a stand-up lamp on the side of the couch nearest the fireplace, a side table with a table lamp on the opposite side of the couch, and a coffee table. This will improve lighting and provide functionality to the space. I chose white/clear for the finishes on the tables. This was to compliment the floor being a warm pattern (wood would be too much). If the lighting isn’t adequate after the lamps have been styled, I recommend extending the track lighting across the entire front of the fireplace. This will light the mantle nicely and provide additional lighting that can be angled out or in to illuminate the areas that need more light. I recommend adding some accessories to the mantle to make it feel “finished” & well-designed (Swedishinspired and/or additional art). Keep the map up there, too, but just add a little bit to it. Pillows can also be added for interest & pops of color. Additionally, as discussed, I would add curtains. These would help anchor the room and create a sense of refinement to the space- almost like bookends. I don’t think these need to be too ornate, the more neutral the better since it spans two spaces (both the living room and dining room). White or Navy would be great. I made recommendations but I know Lindsay can sew them, too!
Living Room Recommendations +
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Ikea- $35 West Elm- $150 The round shape is kid-friendly & adds interest while still remaining neutral in a white, modern color and finish. I wasn’t able to find this exact table anywhere, but I have a furniture builder who could do something similar if you were interested in this as an alternate side table. The wood tone adds interest and warmth. If you went with this option, the lamp on top should have a white base.
Lamps Plus, $100 I can find something vintage like this for much less, but if you go with a white side table, the lamp base should have some wood tone in it.
+ CB2- $279 This Is actually a clear acrylic coffee table. Functional, but doesn’t distract from other designs. Kid-friendly due to the rounds edges. Check out CB2 to see it in action in other rooms.
Lamps Plus- $250 Top end of your price range for a lamp, but I think it is perfect in size, shape, and color.
Another alternative to the clear coffee table is a round or rectangle white lacquer. These come in a variety of shapes (round is the most kid-friendly) and are incredibly chic, but they also range drastically in price. If you are interested in something like this, I can tell you where I found the best options.
Living Room Recommendations The pillows and additional textiles in your living room will add interest and color, but make sure you keep some neutral in whites, beige, or grey as well (Ikea is perfect for buying the neutrals/ fillers at a great price). There are so many pillows to choose from, so I just wanted to share with you a few I thought might compliment your space and style well. I have also included some curtain recommendations, but that could change if you make them, too. Â
Etsy- $27 (cover only)
Ikea- $5 (cover only)
Ikea- $15/set of 2 FLOR Mod Cow Tile Squares- $16/sq.ftv
West Elm- $35
Jonathan Adler- $90
Etsy- $40 (cover only)
Living Room Recommendations
West Elm- $39
West Elm- $35
Additional art & accessories can be found at flea markets, on Etsy, and throughout your home. I have provided some examples, but I think these should be more “found items” that speak to you (especially for art). I can help you find what makes sense & then style them appropriately on the shelves and mantle. Etsy- $69
World Market- $29
West Elm- $20-$30
Amazon- $80 I saw some great throw blankets on Lindsay’s Pinterest & throughout my room research (check out the awesome one on page 4). The prices vary so much. I tried to pick the most affordable ones I could find, yet still cool & modern. If you want to splurge, I recommend the styles at Lekker, Lake Superior Woolen Company, Garnet Hill, or Scandinavian Design Center.
Etsy- $39
Dining Room
Dining Room Comments As with the living room, the dining room’s main accent color should be blue. This will help the spaces flow well while still acting as separate spaces. We can incorporate a little more color & interest with styling on and above the credenza (buffet). The main issue in this room is lighting and color. Yellow tones are in the floor, table, and credenza, so this needs to be broken up a little bit. I recommend doing so with an area rug under the dining room table. It will anchor the space as well. I looked up some of the rugs Lindsay had on her Pinterest board and picked the ones I thought fit most with the design plan & scheme (while taking price and practicality into consideration). I think you should consider adding a hanging light fixture above the dining room table. This will not only be stylish, but functional (no more turning on additional lights to see while you eat dinner—mostly an issue I am assuming you have in the winter months). You could also add two wall sconces above the credenza. I don’t have any recommendations on changing out the furniture as they are classic/clean pieces that speak for themselves (and it’s a small space that doesn’t need anymore). As for styling, I would move the current metal art that is above the credenza and replace it with different art. I didn’t get measurements of the landscape painting that Lindsay loves, but perhaps this can be centered above the credenza. We’d have to make sure the size works, but if it doesn’t we can find an alternative. Other than that, I would add some accessories to the credenza to make it feel more “designed”, but that is pretty much it! Recommendations for this section are set up by alternatives to “save” or “splurge” since we don’t have a ton to do in the space. I think a nice mixture of saving & splurging will make the room feel styled but still comfortable and natural.
Dining Room Recommendations or or Ikea- $60 Kid-friendly & easy to clean. Not as “blue� or as graphic as alternatives, but it may be the most functional. It may also not last as long as other rugs, but that may be fine because of the price.
or Urban Outfitters$39
New Piece of Art Lindsay pinned some great art. I was drawn mostly to this one due to the color & modern design. For a bit more money you could splurge for this, too.
Huset- $680 Beautiful & easy to clean. Brings a great texture & shade of blue. More durable than the Ikea one, but also much more expensive.
Ikea- $60 Practical, clean, and affordable. Would light the entire table area. Jonathan Adler$195
Vintage Print The color is great on your landscape, we just need to make sure it would fill the space. If not, we can continue to hunt for vintage art to hang at a reasonable price.
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Jonathan Adler$750 Beautiful design that is a great statement piece. It is also very functional as it lights the room while still lighting the table.
Master Bedroom
Master Bedroom Comments My goal in the bedroom is to keep it extremely simple & serene, zen-like. Originally, I was planning on working with navy again in your bedroom; however, with how much blue we used out in the living/dining areas, I thought that green/taupe/linen color scheme might be a change of pace (very neutral like oatmeal in a white bowl). The inspiration board on the previous page uses a lot of navy, too, but I think my general recommendations will work with either color scheme. The linens and art (which provide most of the color for the room) will be provided on the next page in both green/taupe and blue options. In general, I think the linens for the bed should remain white, but with a coverlet at the end of the bed and throw pillows to add just a slight pop of color (see prior page for examples). If you did want a little bit more textile interest, I think navy or gray striped sheets would do just that. I chose pricier blankets for the bedroom because it would be an actual feature of the bed, not an accessory. Of course, these recommendations can be changed out for less expensive ones, too, but I was trying to find really special textiles since Lindsay spends the most time in there and is so inspired by textiles. I think your two dressers are great—good bones, color, and clean lines. I would not recommend getting rid of them (unless you wanted to splurge on the mid-century looking ones Lindsay pinned from West Elm). The bed and side tables should be changed out. Since the ceilings aren’t very tall, I think it is important to raise the bed, but not too high. A traditional bed or headboard can be purchased OR we can use a mid-century screen as a headboard. I can also have a headboard built for you in a modern style. You will see examples of each, and all examples will work well regardless of bed linens. Its really up to you & your comfort/budget. I think the light pendant above Paul’s dresser is very unique, and I don’t recommend getting rid of it. New lamps should be added on each side of the bed, and possibly task lighting on Lindsay’s dresser. Simple shades can be added to the windows to make them look more “finished”; however, as long as you are okay with the privacy back there, you really don’t HAVE to add them. Styling will be minimal—wall art behind bed and above Lindsay’s dresser, lamps, and a mirror behind Paul’s dresser. Some small, functional décor items should be added to the dressers, but only if it makes sense.
Master Bedroom Recommendations
Serena & Lily- $128
Serena & Lily- $64
Ikea Shades- $12
Turkish linensEtsy
Saffron Marigold- $180 This blanket is so unique & made to order. It is a bit pricey, but you would save money by not buying an entire rooms worth of linens. It is a duvet, but you could have it folded at the end of your bed like a throw.
West Elm- $39 Vintage screens make great art & headboards Pottery Barn- $59
Master Bedroom Recommendations +
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You have a few options when it comes to beds. It is really up to your preference. I tried to stay away from malm beds due to your difference of opinions on them. You can buy a frame and combine it with a headboard or piece of art. You can also build a custom wood headboard of your own (I have a guy who could make a great modern design). Or you can buy a bed with frame & matching head and footboard. It is up to your comfort level. My only recommendation is to stay neutral (linen color, white, grey, or wood that would blend with your dressers) for your bed of choice. Â
Master Bedroom Recommendations CB2- $400 Optional for foot of the bed. A bit pricey- we may be able to find something vintage like it. But great lines and would add a nice touch of sophistication.
West Elm- $250 The side tables will also be dependent on the bed you choose. We don’t want the wood clashing, but definitely want clean/modern.
Ikea- $30 Would go nicely in front of Paul’s dresser or by the rocking chair
onefortythree- $145 Very minimal, clean look. We can probably find somebody to make them for half the cost.
Ikea- $35 Above Paul’s dresser
onefortythree- $65
Ikea-$40
Wall sconces on either side of the bed will open up table space from the side table, but two simple table lamps would also do the same job. The best option will probably be dependent on the bed you choose.
Vintage Accordion Mirror and Wall Art Above Lindsay’s Dresser
Josephine’s Bedroom
Child’s Room Comments This room should be whimsical and fun. Doesn’t the mood board just make you happy? That is my goal with this space. I want it to be fun, but still mature enough to age with her over time. The shelves & built-in system should be sanded and painted a glossy white. Behind the shelving, I recommend adding wallpaper. It will really make that area stand out and would be kind of a “wow” moment. The current bed should be removed and replaced with a single twin bed or bunk beds. I recommend the bed be a white color. If a single bed is chosen, a side table should also be added. I recommend doing a wood side table if that is the case. This will add warmth & depth to all the white in the room. I would keep the white toy shelf in there for storage, but consider turning it vertical to give some more floor space. The bottom cubes can be used for toys and the top for more permanent items (picture frames, globe, etc.) I would add a rocking chair (if it fits), desk chair, a sheepskin rug for warmth, and a homemade “teepee” for playing in. The accents & art should be fun & age appropriate (globes, throw blankets, pillows, curtains, etc.) in bright colors. If you end up doing a side table, you could repaint the red lamp base you currently have in the living room and put it in there. I think the ceiling light is functional & not distracting, but for some whimsy, you could add a colorful vintage chandelier. The bedding & curtains should compliment the wallpaper without fighting for attention. I recommend white sheets/pillows with a navy/white stripe duvet.
Child’s Room Recommendations
West Elm- $999
Pottery Barn- $129
Land of Nod- $1400
Ikea- $150
Ikea- $89 Trundle can be added for $100 Vintage Nightstand I can find a mid-century nightstand at a great price
Designer’s Guild Wallpaper behind the desk/shelving system
JC Penney - $410 (splurge!) Target- $35
Serena & Lily Duvet- $150
Child’s Room Recommendations
Etsy- $40
Etsy- $15
Land of Nod- $23
Ikea- $39
Ikea- $5
Play Teepee You can purchase one or make it yourself
Etsy- $17 This and other animals would be cute on the wall in a shadow box (like the inspiration board)
Seating for the room should be a mix of old and new so it feels comfortable & curated.
Hunt & Gather Items I have included some pictures of current items from our shop that you may want to consider adding to your home. If/when I come to “style” your rooms, I will bring a variety of on-hand items that might make great display pieces. Anything you purchase from our shop for your home will be 10% off while we are working together as designer/client.
Lamps Would look good in either bedroom Misc. Accessories Great for dresser tops & bookshelves to match personality & mood of a room. Painting Would work in Josephine’s room or dining room
What’s Next? Whew! That was a lot of information. Now that you have seen the inspiration/recommendations, you have a couple of options. Call or e-mail me to set up an appointment to discuss your likes/dislikes of the design(s) and how we can move forward together with me managing the project (we would discuss what items you would like to purchase yourself, what I should be hunting for, budget, and timeline). Start working on each room on your own (purchasing items, hunting for things, etc.) and only call me when you need clarification, recommendations, or styling. Nothing. Find another designer because you hated it. I sure hope this isn’t the case. Haha. Additional pricing for services would be $20 per hour spent working with you (follow-up meetings, shopping, styling, etc.). I would keep a log and update you when time was spent & why it was spent. I am constantly looking for items for our shop, so I would not charge you “time” when I am collecting items for both you and the shop. I will, however, sell you items I find specifically for you AT COST with a 15% finders fee to cover the time/fact that I can’t sell it (my up charge to sell in the shop is 40%-50%, so this is a great deal and saves you a ton of time).
THANK YOU Kelley Howley Hunt & Gather (248) 894-3063 huntandgatherGR@gmail.com kelleyhowley@gmail.com