Design Notes
Personalization is becoming a hot topic and is increasingly relevant in multiple fields, including interior design. It is important to have a space that is not only functional but also representative of your unique style. Design is not made up of just one element but is a beautiful blending of many to create a unified result.
Though our roots are in custom cabinets, we soon realized that we needed to expand our inventory to include lighting, flooring, countertops, and hardware. These elements help to complete the look and feel of a design, bringing in that last bit of the owner’s reflection.
Selecting just the right home accents and elements is often a fun process for our clients. It is an opportunity to add a little bit of themselves to the design, whether they choose the more traditional piece of hardware or go bolder with a contemporary piece. Each has a place and purpose in the design world, so we thought we would discuss a few options.
Lighting
Lighting can greatly affect a room’s atmosphere. Soft lights can create a more relaxing vibe, while bright lights give off an energy of their own. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the selection.
- Design: Choose a light that complements the room’s overall style. It can transform the room, so it’s important to think through the overall design.
- Budget: Lighting can be expensive. Knowing how much you want to spend on each design element will help make the selection easier. Do you want to spend more on lighting because it is important to you, or do you want to divide it evenly among all the different elements, such as hardware and home decor? This is important to have in place so you can get all you want from your list.
- Types of lights: Ceiling-mounted fixtures, pendants, chandeliers, and sconces are just a few of the options available. It is good to talk with a designer who can help you find the perfect type of light to complement your overall design style.
- Know the purpose: No two rooms are the same, and neither are their needs. For an in-depth look at the specific needs of each room, read this blog posting. Understanding the function of each room will help you know which light is a good fit for your space.
Flooring
Tile, wood, or laminate? There are several flooring options to choose from and factors to consider, such as moisture, durability, and budget. Each type has its own pros and cons. Before making your choice, it is essential to understand the differences and which ones are important to you and your design.
- Tile: Is durable, timeless, and low-maintenance. Depending on your selections, it can also be suitable for the budget. Traditionally, it has been considered one of the cheaper options available. Water-resistant and eco-friendly are some additional benefits of tile flooring. The downside is that tile flooring is often cold and can be slippery, which may not be suitable for senior homeowners.
- Wood: Floors bring a touch of nature and add a bit of warmth to the overall feel of the design. They are also durable and easy to clean. Real hardwood floors can also be stripped and restained if you decide you want to change the room’s color scheme or are simply tired of the current hue. Wood floors are a bit on the higher price point, and they can also be a noisier option since every sound can be heard when you walk. Wood floors are likely to be damaged during water leaks that could require replacement.
- Laminate: Flooring has come a long way and is an excellent imitation of the real wood flooring. It is considered an eco-friendly choice since it is made to look like wood flooring without actually having to cut down trees. Installation is a simple process because it usually comes in planks or tiles and snaps together. Another thing to mention is that it cannot be refinished as wood flooring can, so once any damage is done or you tire of the color, the entire floor has to be replaced. With the improvements in laminate over the years, it is more resistant to water damage. Laminate usually has various levels of quality that determine the price.
Countertops
Countertops are more than just a workspace; they have become a work of art. They come in various materials, including granite, quartz, marble, and quartzite, each meeting a different need or requirement for your particular lifestyle. More color options are available now, meaning that countertops can be a focal point and functional. To learn more about the differences in the material choices and which one might be better suited to your lifestyle, you can read our blog here.
Hardware
The cabinets have been installed, and everything looks good, but one thing is missing: hardware. Hardware is always the finishing touch to cabinets, similar to jewelry. What is unique about these accessories is the fact that they are the most touched. While we will admire our lights and simply walk on our floors without a second thought, we will physically touch and use the hardware on our cabinets. They provide more than beauty to our cabinets; they are also functional, so picking something that works well for you is essential. Read more about hardware in this blog post.
Greenbrook DesignThese products usually come in refillable, recyclable, or compostable packaging and containers. Some have no packaging at all if you buy them from your local health food stores. You can also switch to more sustainable cleaning products, such as vinegar and hot water. For toilet paper, look for options with compostable packaging. You can also switch to a bidet to achieve complete waste-free status.
Being eco-friendly is at the heart of minimalism. If you want to adopt this light, sustainable, and freeing lifestyle, making eco-minimalist changes in your bathroom is a great first step. For more tips on achieving an elevated lifestyle, visit us here at Greenbrook Design.
Walker Woodworking As one of the most used areas in the home for our intimate needs, the bathroom should be designed as a place of refuge and relaxation from the cares and stresses of life. This means that it should reflect your personality in every way, from color to pattern; everything should make it a place you enjoy using, rather than just serving a purpose. Design details matter, and with traditional rules being replaced with out-of-the-box thinking, it is easier than ever to accomplish this task. You deserve to have a well-functioning and lovely bathroom that is designed with you in mind. Designing a bathroom should be all about you!
Greenbrook Design It’s hard to believe that the farmhouse style has only recently become so popular, thanks to its warm colors and romantic charm. It was once a haven for those seeking to escape city life and return to simpler times. Nowadays, farmhouse design is about elegant simplicity in every piece of furniture. Whether you live in a bungalow or a mansion, incorporating modern farmhouse design into your home is easier than ever. Here are some tips to help you get started.
Greenbrook DesignWanting the custom kitchen of your dreams can be overwhelming and isn’t always budget-friendly. However, an easy, cost-effective way to have the kitchen of your dreams is closer to your grasp than you think.
Walker WoodworkingAlthough having a professional come in and assist is sometimes the best solution, there are certain things that you can do to get a head start or do it all by yourself. Clutter is a friend to no one and can quickly overwhelm and suffocate you. Although it is never easy to begin the task of removing piles of junk from a home, the end results are well worth the investment of time and effort. But that is only half the battle; the other is knowing what to do after it has all been neatly tucked away. Use these tips to organize like a pro—start with a plan and be deliberate about its implementation. As you regain control over your home, you will feel the stress melt away as you enjoy coming home again.
Walker Woodworking 
Walker Woodworking