Have you picked up the September issue of SO Rhode Island Magazine featuring our East Bay Bedroom project? This formerly pastel-pink childhood bedroom has been updated with fresh, modern details.
The homeowner adds, “the assignment was tricky because the final result needed to resonate with the teenager and her parents!”
Photo Credit: Mark Makes Media
Looking for modern coastal home inspiration? Rhody’s The Bay magazine is currently featuring LLD’s Green End Project. Get the inside scoop on this waterfront home’s year and a half renovation in the May issue.
“I blended neutral tones with coastal hues and lots of texture,” says Lowney of interiors that are at once a mix of streamline and warmth. “I landed on the modern coastal aesthetic early in the design process.”
Photo Credit: Mark Makes Media
Recently I spoke with The Boston Globe to discuss how staircases have become a focal point in today’s modern home. I shared my experience applying the ombré stair technique, creating an eye-catching entryway in a converted single-family home in Newport, Rhode Island.
“It’s a great solution for clients that don’t want to put a runner on their stairs. It can be cost-effective to do paint, and it’s not a huge commitment. It hides scuffs with darker colors,” Lowney said. “It was a nice solution that didn’t cost a ton but gave a really great look.”
Getting your house ready to list for sale? Or simply wanting to give it a minor facelift this spring? There are a few easy updates that can make a huge impact on the curb appeal of your home.
Bosporus by Sherwin Williams (door paint color)
First, start by creating a focal point. The front door is usually a great place to start. Updating to a bold color or applying a fresh coat of paint can make a significant difference. I usually recommend selecting a hue that reflects the people who live inside the home. What does the color say about the personalities of those who live there? Sometimes it’s a color that you may wear in your own wardrobe! This is a color you will see EVERY day, so make sure it’s something YOU enjoy.
After you have established your focal point, layer on the extras. Think of the front of your home as an extended room of your interior spaces. A new front door mat that compliments your front door gives guests a first impression of what could be inside. Maybe try a small outdoor rug layered underneath your door mat for added texture and pattern. Think of adding “jewelry” to your home such as a new mailbox, updated house numbers or a fun door knocker. When I was having photos taken of my house prior to listing, the photographer mentioned that he knew that the interior of my home was going to be beautiful because he spotted a stylish, new mailbox. That attention to detail can go a long way for a potential buyer.
Polished Stainless Steel Mailbox by Ecco
Even if you’re not a green thumb, pick up a fresh new plant and planter to prop near the front door. Bonus points if you coordinate the planter color with your new front door hue! And if you are feeling up for an additional challenge, adding a window box with fresh plantings can add that little extra charm from the street.
Next, if you are willing to go the extra mile, update your outdoor lighting. Even just a new fixture near the front door can change the look in a simple way. Looking for a quicker update? Try new solar lights to give an extra glow at night along a pathway.
Lastly, keep your front facade tidy from the curb. Sweep up stray yard debris, trim and shape overgrown plantings or add a layer of fresh mulch. Wash windows and make any necessary repairs such as a loose doorknob or broken doorbell. These quick and easy updates tell a story about what to expect once you’re inside the home.
Now, who’s ready to get started?
Photo Credit: John Fell Photography