As an interior designer in Lake Tahoe, I work with a lot of clients who own vacation rental properties. This includes everyone who caters to weekend AirbnBb”ers,” week-long VRBO”ers” and summer-long renters. Designing vacation rental spaces, in whatever form they may take, is a bit different than designing spaces for full-time residents. Read More
Wall-mounted flat screen TVs are everywhere. They are being installed in family rooms, bedrooms, home gyms and offices, laundry rooms, playrooms and kitchens. And why not, with their falling price points, even 80” flat screens are now within reach. Read More
Area rugs are a great example of timeless interior décor, and you would be hard-pressed to imagine a stylish and comfortable home without one. There are many factors to consider when you’re selecting a rug, and each will affect the way it looks and feels in your space. Read More
It’s officially spring! The season of transformation and renewal. As flowers start to blossom and days get longer, we feel more energized in our daily activities. This makes spring an ideal time to deep clean and refresh our homes. Cleaning and adding spring décor will surely brighten our homes, creating an interior that embodies the true essence of the changing season. Read More
I know that in the past, I’ve written about the need to rebel against interior design rules. However, there are a few key “rules” that we designers actually adhere to. It’s not because we follow the rules. We clearly don’t. It’s because these rules actually lead to practical, functional and efficient design. Read More
Whether it’s fall fashion or interior design, fur is in! And, luckily, for we animal lovers, today’s technology makes it difficult to tell the difference between real versus faux. So, we can enjoy the warm, luxurious texture without harming our animal friends. Read More
Designing with mirrors is not new. “Our ancient ancestors fashioned mirrors from polished stones as early as 4000 B.C.; [but] it wasn’t until the First Century that the Romans introduced a very rudimentary mirror made of glass,“ writes Bill Rau of M.S. Rau Antiques. Read More
As a designer, I like to use at least one “animal-inspired” piece in each room. This could be in the form of a leopard print pillow, cowhide rug or wall-hanging trophy animal. But, as an animal lover, I can’t image using the real thing. Oh the guilt! Luckily, this “animal revival” is all the rage; big box retailers are stocking faux alternatives to taxidermy in creative and interesting ways. Guilt-free! Read More
Your houseguests are coming! With the holidays around the corner, friends and family will be arriving soon. Rather than consider this an added stress, embrace your visitors and provide them with a warm, comfortable and luxurious home-away-from-home. Here are some tips to prepare for their arrival. Read More
