e design, where to start

pulling together a cohesive look for a new build can be a bit of a process. I met Kathryn today, who is working with Tara to transform a dining table and chairs for the new space. When I asked Kathryn what the overall look she wanted to achieve was she answered with a mix of hollywood glam, kelly wearstler, mary macdonald.. but it needs to be practical for a young family and cost effective. Here's the inspiration I put together for Kathryn to narrow down her look-

One common factor in all these rooms is grey. Whether soft and pale or boldly dark-

I think this Kelly Wearstler room has a palette we can work with for Kathryn's home.

The chairs in this next photo are similar to Kathryn's ( shown )..and I love them in this grey. The seats..how about a rich hued velvet. It would add an unexpected touch of glam-

Kathryn was thinking about a robins egg blue for the living room..I'd love to see her opt for something a bit calmer and easier to build a palette off of, like Benjamin Moores Tranquility-

( This color is just off the top of my head, in the morning I'll have a good look at my BM colors and see if there is an even better fit! )

Something like this will play gorgeously off the white kitchen, ginger island and dark floors. I love this color and this color from Lauren Lane Decors new Annie Sloan collection. Wouldn't the paler grey look incredible with a hint of gold around the edges?!

So I'll run all these thoughts past Kathryn and we'll carry on from here..either with more details or back to the drawing board. All good design has to start somewhere!

Share your design inspiration, I'll help turn it into a reality! e design services start at $85. Visit sarah swanson design.

e design, from inspiration to room plan

What started as an office is becoming a piano room..a place for playing, reading, quiet time. Kelli's style is just like mine, so as well as functional, inviting and gorgeous, cozy is high on the list of needs. With a busy young family, what a fabulous addition to their home.

Here's how the room started-

the inspiration Kelli sent me-

new paint color, benjamin moore gray mist-

and the finished design board plan for the new room.

( click on any of the images to enlarge! )

Share your design inspiration, I'll help turn it into a reality! e design services start at $85. Visit sarah swanson design.

e design, two finished spaces

( click to enlarge images )

I've had alot of people ask how I do e design. What's the process? Here are two rooms that I just finished for a client who wanted to 'finish' the spaces. She had chosen some wonderful pieces, but was worried about making her spaces too traditional. Well I'm all about a traditional base, so to finish the spaces, I picked out some fabulous details, rearranged the living room and now she can add the pieces at her own pace. I provided her with all the details and sources, why I've chosen the pieces I did, and what they are going to do for the space. She loved the result, and I love that she did too :)

Share your design inspiration, I'll help turn it into a reality! e design services start at $85. Visit sarah swanson design.

[project] nursery 1st design board

( click to enlarge )

Ohh, playing around with ideas for a sweet little nursery has been so much fun! Depending on where the parents want to go from here, there are layers that can be slowly added onto. They've set the foundation with a perfect pink and gorgeous dark furniture, and I would start by adding the sweet ikea chandelier KRISTALLER.

I'd love to try the crib on an angle in the corner opposite the door, beside amazing blackout drapes in a great neutral that will grow with baby.

Prints 1/2/3 will look gorgeous in varying shades of pink and blush and violet to match the bedding ( not seen sorry! ) Framed in RIBBA frames on the wall where the crib is now.

Above the change table/ dresser, I'd add a little ledge that we can stack baby's name blocks ( now in window sill ) on as well as a little creature or two :)

Those 4 steps will add alot of color and dimension to the space. From there I would love to add either some big pink poufs or a darling pinwheel mobile to keep baby's interest!

From there, a cozy slip covered chair and ottoman ( both EKTORP Jenny Lund ) in the corner beside the dresser would give mom and dad a comfy spot to sit with baby. Add a great basket from Pier One to hold toys and books.

A pillow from Milk & Cookies cozies up the chair and a very cool pouf from CB2 is perfect for when baby is learning to stand and climb!

design services available through sarah swanson design

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love stella & dot? Canadian shoppers can visit my shop by clicking right here! x

design board

playing around with some ideas for a comfy family room for a client.. I love the tonal feel here with a just a pop of color that can be a starting point to introduce more..

e design is available through sarah swanson design .x
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love stella & dot? Canadian shoppers can visit my shop by clicking right here! x