Has your home become the backdrop for most of your day? Whether you are working out of the house rather than in the office or skipping restaurants in favor of home-cooked meals, these tips from Northern Lights Home Staging and Design can help you refresh your living space and make it as cheery and welcoming as possible.

Declutter Your Space

Many home improvements are simple enough to be done without professional help. For example, decluttering is a DIY job that can make an enormous difference in the appearance and energy of your space. Moreover, research shows that clearing clutter from your environment increases your ability to focus, process information, and be productive. Additionally, keeping things clean and organized can help eliminate dust, which can reduce the symptoms of breathing conditions such as asthma (wheezing, feelings of breathlessness, etc.).

To begin, set realistic expectations and pick a method that appeals to you. You can attack the problem with the KonMari process, which encourages you to keep things that spark joy and get rid of the rest, or try a longer-term approach, such as getting rid of at least one item per day. The method is not as important as the commitment, so choose an approach that resonates with you to increase your chances for success.

Decluttered living spaces also contribute to a home’s feng shui, or positive energy that aligns with and supports your life’s natural balance and rhythms. As Architectural Digest notes, it’s a simple way to improve the vibes of your home’s interior, taking steps like strategically arranging furniture (which is difficult to do if clutter abounds) and integrating vertical shapes and lines in each room.

Let in More Light

Exposure to natural light can offer many benefits, including better sleep, improved mood, and increased productivity. Aim to increase the amount of natural light in your home by replacing heavy curtains with sheers or blinds that allow the sunlight to shine in. Adding a few strategically placed mirrors can increase the amount of daylight in your room through the power of reflection.

If your windows are outdated or too small to allow enough light, consider replacing them. Unless you have advanced renovation skills, you should hire a professional for the job.

Carve Out a Workout Space

Being home every day can take a toll on your health if you allow yourself to be sedentary for long stretches of time. To offset this, consider devoting a room or space to be used as your at-home gym. Having a designated workout spot increases your likelihood of maintaining a consistent exercise regime.

While it doesn’t need to be large or fancy, your workout space should provide:

• Privacy while exercising
• Enough space to move around
• Adequate storage for your equipment

Make Strategic Changes

When you are making home improvements, it always pays to think strategically and focus on changes that can increase the value of your property. For example, repairing or replacing your roof is a sure-fire way to reap a good ROI, so look into nearby roof replacement companies to get the job done right. This is especially true if you are planning to sell your home soon.

With this in mind for the home’s interior, invest in renovations that give you the most return for your money. Experts suggest that you can get 10% more for your home if you invest in kitchen and bathroom upgrades, including:

• Modern bathroom fixtures, such as a freestanding tub, a glass shower enclosure, or a frameless LED vanity mirror
• A kitchen island or breakfast bar, especially one with contrasting surfaces or interesting architectural details
• New, energy-efficient appliances
• Updated cabinets, often achievable with a simple coat of paint and new hardware
• A kitchen backsplash that features contrasting colors or textures
• A whimsical touch in the bathroom, such as a chandelier, a waterfall showerhead, or a black-and-white mosaic tile floor

While you can tackle the smaller jobs yourself, large-scale projects are best left to the professionals. Document any major home improvements with before and after photos as well as receipts.

Investing time, energy, and money into your house can pay off both now and in the future. In addition to enjoying your revived space right away, you can also benefit later when you decide to sell.

This article was written by Suzie Wilson of  Happier Home for Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.

Ready to Create the Perfect Space?

My philosophy of great Interior Design, which I call Aligned Design, considers three key factors which are art (creativity), science (color), and energy (connection). The intersection of the three is where the magic happens.

I like to start with a look at what you already have and how we can re-arrange or re-purpose to create your perfect space. This is part of the art of great design.

Learn more about Global style design in my article, Tell Your Story with Global Style Interior Design.  Curious about what Global Style might be right for you? Take the quiz below. Ready to try to get the look in your own home? Try one of my Edesign packages.

Check out My Fractal Art Studios

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Have you ever wondered how Interior Designers come up with designs for you?  Are you curious what it might be like to work with an Interior Designer or what Edesign is all about?
I’m sure all designers have their own ways of creating that perfect space for you!  One of the reasons you hire us is because we can visualize the possibilities of an empty space, which is something most people have difficulty with. So how do we do it?

To take a look inside the brain of a designer, at least this designer, and see how I developed this Vintage Boho office design.

This design emerged from a contest that challenged participants to craft an ‘edesign’ for an office tailored to our ‘ideal client.’ The onus was on us to define that client and to conceptualize within their budget. Our tools of representation were a concept board and a digital render. The canvas for our creativity was an existing room, complete with photos and dimensions to guide our design journey.

Before

My Client

My ideal client for this design was a woman who loves color and Bohemian or global style design with a mid-high range budget. She worked in a creative field such as  graphic, fashion, color or Interior Design.  Yes, my ideal client was someone like me! Well, of course, I know myself better than anyone else, so why not!

Function First

My first step was to understand the client’s energy and what she needed in the space to be in alignment with who she truly is. Since this was an imaginary client, I pictured myself and what I would want.

Then, my focus revolved around functionality and the practical requirements that would make this space not just aesthetically pleasing but genuinely functional for the client.

I determined that the client would need:

1. Ample Storage: To house client files, sample materials, and essential reference books, ensuring easy accessibility.
2. Meeting Space: A designated area to accommodate 2 to 3 clients comfortably, facilitating design presentations.
3. Aesthetics and Atmosphere: Given her creative profession and the likelihood of client meetings in this space, it was paramount that the office exuded style, uniqueness, and an element of fun. It needed to serve as an inspirational yet relaxed haven for clients, enhancing their overall experience.

Floor Plan

Next, I considered how she would want to move in the space and created a floor plan to bring the functional aspects of the design to life. My primary focus was on optimizing the layout to cater to the client’s work requirements, ensuring seamless access to essential elements.

The key considerations were:

• Desk and Storage Placement: I explored various desk configurations, complete with accessible file cabinets and bookshelves. Equally crucial was creating a designated area for meetings and presentations, equipped with adequate overhead and task lighting.
• Traffic Flow: I meticulously designed the layout to facilitate smooth movement into the office from the outside entrance while also maintaining accessibility to the adjoining room.
• Strategic Wall Usage: After careful assessment, I determined that the back wall offered the ideal location for two flanking file cabinets and a central bookshelf. Placing the desk in front allowed for effortless access, enabling the client to pivot their chair and access everything with ease. This setup not only improved functionality but also visually balanced the elongated room.
• Aesthetic Cohesion: To tie the units together and create an appealing display area, I envisioned a custom countertop spanning the file cabinets and shelves. This surface could showcase plants, books, or decor, taking advantage of the adjacent window.
• Furniture Dimensions: Sizing up the furniture was a crucial step, factoring in the room’s traffic flow. The chosen layout accommodated a circular table that maximized seating while maintaining clear pathways. To define the two distinct work zones, I considered rugs for each area. An 8-foot-diameter circular rug appeared to be the perfect fit for the table area.

This meticulous planning ensured not only functional efficiency but also a harmonious aesthetic within the office space.

Inspiration

Then I started researching pieces for the design, looking for foundational pieces that would direct the rest of the design. I started with the desk, as it would be the focal point as you entered the room, and the most important piece functionally for the client. When I found this gorgeous desk, I knew it was the one! It was unique, colorful and had a vintage Bohemian vibe.  it inspired the color scheme, the feeling for the room and the rest of the design!

Color Scheme

The desk’s striking aesthetics naturally suggested a palette of pinks, greens, black, and subtle shades of gray or off-white. A hint of yellow, used sparingly, could accentuate key elements. The room’s expansive windows offered a lush green backdrop, seamlessly integrating nature’s touch. I visualized using pink either in one of the rugs or the upholstery for the desk or table chairs. A black marble countertop atop the file cabinets and shelves would elegantly frame the desk zone. With an emphasis on preserving the room’s luminosity, I considered a light gray or an antique white as the ideal wall shade, ensuring the space felt open and airy.

Major Design Elements

While seeking complementary pieces for the desk, I stumbled upon a rug that resonated beautifully with both the color scheme and the Bohemian vibe. My next discovery was a captivating wallpaper, its hue in perfect harmony with the room. Its design, reminiscent of antique ceilings or walls, subtly enhanced the space without overshadowing the desk—something wall art might have inadvertently done. This vintage essence further steered my search, leading me to incorporate vintage or vintage-inspired accents and lighting, enriching the evolving theme.

While exploring furniture and accessories for the design, I integrated each find into my Photoshop workspace where I curated the concept board. This digital canvas enabled a holistic view, letting me juxtapose various items. Through this iterative process, I tweaked, added, or removed elements to strike the right balance in terms of color, form, style, and functionality.

Concept Board

Design Products

I sourced a variety of beautiful furniture and accessories and created a render to help visualize the final design.

Voilà!

My design journey always begins by getting to know the client, understanding what they need to be in alignment with who they truly are and how the design can enhance that. Then I delve into their functional and space needs. From there, I seek out inspiration pieces that resonate with the client’s style, often creating energy art specifically for them.

These foundational elements set the tone, directing the design’s evolution and color narrative.

Are You Inspired?

Want to create a beautiful office or other space that is perfect for you? Try an Aligned Design consultation with my to get started.

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How can I work with an Interior Designer on my budget?

Many perceive hiring an Interior Designer as a lavish expenditure during home renovation or updates. Yet, partnering with an expert can prevent costly errors, ensuring your investment aligns with your vision.

However, remodeling isn’t cheap, and budget constraints are real. Seeking professional advice that’s budget-friendly? Enter Edesign!

Edesign is the future-forward approach to Interior Design – completely online. It doesn’t matter if your preferred designer is local or states away; with Edesign, geographical boundaries blur.

It’s the answer to achieving stylish interiors swiftly, affordably, and at your convenience.

Edesign accelerates the design process and is budget-friendly primarily because it taps into retail sources instead of custom designs. You receive a curated shopping list and have the autonomy to decide what to buy and when.

Additionally, by taking on roles typically handled by a designer, like measuring and overseeing installations, you save both time and money. You also have the reins when it comes to hiring and managing contractors for any revamps.

In essence, Edesign is a synergized effort between the designer and you. With discussions over phone, email, or video calls, it fits seamlessly into your schedule, offering both convenience and control.

Is an Edesigner right for you? 

Considering Edesign? It might be a good fit if you:

• Seek affordable design solutions and are open to hands-on involvement.
• Enjoy a DIY approach and collaborating in the design process.
• Can measure and photograph your space with guidance.
• Are adept at sharing your preferences through online images and product links.
• Need a swift design plan and can help expedite the process.
• Are okay with managing online purchases, including potential returns.
• Can independently hire and oversee any required tradespeople.
• Prefer to personally inspect local items before purchasing them. While the designer will recommend reputable brands and sources, it’s beneficial if you can review items firsthand

Consider hiring a local designer if:

• You value face-to-face consultations and communication.

• You want the designer to handle measurements and photography.
• You like to personally review material samples, like fabric or tile.
• Your project requires detailed construction plans.
• You’re interested in custom-made furniture or cabinetry.
• Handling online orders and potential returns isn’t your forte.
• You desire simultaneous delivery and setup of items.
• You prefer the designer oversees installation.

Remember, selecting Edesign with an Interior Designer doesn’t mean compromising quality for cost; it’s about smartly distributing tasks to achieve affordability.

Maximize Your Design Experience

Many designers offer both traditional and Edesign. If budget is a concern, ask your local designer if they provide Edesign options.

Northern Lights Home Staging and Design caters to both in-person and online needs, including Interior Design, Color Consulting, and Vacation Rental Design. I also create custom energy art for your design.

I use my exclusive Aligned Design system for both in person and online projects

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Where do you spend most of your time? 

Indoors, both at home and at work. All the things in our indoor environments can affect our health. While we probably don’t have much say about our work environments, we can totally control what is in our homes, and we can use those things to make our homes both beautiful and healthy at the same time!

 Furniture, rugs, upholstery, flooring cabinets and paint all affect our indoor air quality. Some of the chemicals used to keep us safe, such as flame retardants in synthetic fabrics and rugs can also be hard on our health. Chemicals in some carpeting and flooring off-gas into the air. Adhesives used in furniture, especially particle board, contain formaldehyde that emit harmful substances into the air.

Ways to Create a Healthy Interior Space

How can you reduce or eliminate the negative effects of common products that can affect our health and still have a beautiful home?

 • Buy higher quality furniture that uses wood joinery and fewer adhesives.

 • Get rugs made of natural materials such as wool, cotton, silk or jute. 

• Paint with brands that use fewer chemicals (low VOCs). VOCs are compounds that evaporate into the air and smell bad and are bad for indoor air quality. Benjamin Moore makes a low VOC paint in their Natura collection in all their fabulous colors with reduced levels of allergens and irritants.

 • Purchase furniture with upholstery that does not use fire retardant chemicals. 

• Purchase furniture that uses foam made of natural materials such as latex. 

• Go for furniture and décor items made of wood or metal and avoid plastics.

 • Look for pillows, mattresses, upholstery and beddings made from wool-stuffed materials rather than synthetics. 

• Consider flooring made from natural materials such as stone or wood and avoid vinyl.

 • Give your space plenty of natural light and fresh air.

 • Add plants to add beauty and filter your air.

 • Use natural cleaning products. 

• Use natural materials and objects from nature as decoration.

 • Use rammed earth or adobe for walls instead of plaster or cement.

 • Use rubber walkways made from recycled rubber outdoors rather than concrete

How Your Choices Help the Planet

Besides actions you take to improve the air quality directly in your home, consider how your choices affect the health the planet too! 

• Buy high quality, long lasting furniture rather than cheap low-quality stuff that will end up in landfills or on the street as “free stuff” in a few years. Many cities are being overwhelmed with furniture no-one wants.

 • Find local products so that the shipping doesn’t contribute to emissions in the environment.

 • Use energy efficient lighting.

 • Use vintage items.

 • Use products made of recycled materials such as glass tiles or paper wallpaper. You can use glass in your countertops, tiles, lamps and accessories and paper for beautiful wall coverings. Even some polyester can be recycled. If you must use polyester, use rPET which can be spun into yarn and dyed without toxic properties. 

• Use renewable or sustainable materials such as bamboo, cork, teak, hemp, palm, soy fabric or cotton. Bamboo is used in fabrics, flooring and window treatments. Cork is used in textiles, floor and wall coverings. Teak is used in furniture and decking. Hemp is used in furniture upholstery, bedding, curtains and paper products. Soy fabric is soft and silky. Palm is used in some baskets. Organic cotton can be used for upholstery fabric, bedding, pillows and more. 

• Use sustainable metals that can be recycled such as copper, aluminum and steel. 

• Use solar energy for your home.

Get the Look- Eco-Friendly Design.

So, what does eco-friendly design look like? 

It can really reflect any style that you want. Most of the eco-friendly furniture produced is in a more modern style with fabrics in a wide range of colors and uses beautiful natural wood and bamboo. 

Ethnic rugs, pillows and decorative accessories are often made of natural materials and can create a global style or Bohemian look.

 Whether you are starting fresh with a new home or redoing a whole room, consider making it eco-friendly. Or add eco-friendly elements as you update your look over time. 

Eco-Friendly Furniture and Decor

It is easy to find beautiful sustainable products for your home décor. Sometimes these products may cost a little bit more, but it is worth it!

Ready to Create a Beautiful Eco-Friendly Space?

Learn more about Global style design in my article, Tell Your Story with Global Style Interior Design.  Curious about what Global Style might be right for you? Take the quiz below. Ready to try to get the look in your own home? Try one of my Edesign packages.

Call 907-362-0065 today

 info@northernlightsstaging.com

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Art is a reflection of your soul. Does it speak of your vibrant and eclectic spirit? Do you lean into fluidity and boldness? Are you captivated by intricate nuances? Do sinuous curves resonate more with you than rigid lines? Is it the voyage, rather than the endpoint, that intrigues you? Are you drawn to art that leaves a lingering, dramatic impact? Is the dance of texture and motion in art something you’re fond of? And do you believe that nature, in all its glory, is the ultimate artist?

The art you’re drawn to offers insights into your own personality. interests, and feelings.

Art is a powerful medium, not only as a reflection but as a projection and affirmation of who you aspire to be.

I create energy art tailored to your individual’s essence and then weave that aesthetic into the fabric of your living space in a deeply personal and transformative approach to interior design.

By grounding the design in such custom pieces of art, we create spaces that aren’t just functional or visually appealing—but that resonates on an emotional and spiritual level, too.

My approach of Aligned Design crafts spaces that are not just habitats but sanctuaries, a canvas that bears testimony to your journey, dreams, and aspirations.

By interweaving personal energy art into interior design, we are creating an environment that not only mirrors you, but also nurtures, empowers, and inspires you.  It’s a beautiful synthesis of art and life.

To do that, I use an art form I’m passionate about, which is fractal art. Crafted digitally, these creations breathe life into unique art pieces and home decor. I love the vivid hues, intricate textures, and mesmerizing spirals that define each masterpiece.

Fractal art is algorithmic art created by calculating fractal objects which can create still and moving images. It is digital art or abstract art created by math. 

Fractal art is a journey into an infinite kaleidoscope. Delving into it feels like a serene blend of meditation and a vibrant color therapy session. As I traverse its endless expanse, I find distinct moments in the space where I pause, immersing myself in adjusting hues, textures, luminosity, and more. Once I’ve sculpted that perfect realm, I capture it, forever crystallizing that fleeting moment into an image. Each creation is irreplicable—akin to pinpointing a single droplet in the vastness of the ocean, making every piece uniquely it’s own.

I recently have been exploring AI (artificial intelligence) art, and created collages with my fractal art, layering the beauty and energy of the two forms.

I can create energy art for you such as an energy art portrait, which expresses the essence of who you are and serves as the foundation for the rest of your design. I can also create custom pieces to add to it that are about particular energy concepts that can support you, such as in the examples above or you can find some in my various stores (see below).

See My Energy Art or Get a Custom Design

See my art on Fine Art America

I also have a different variety of home decor with my energy art on Society6.

I even have wearable art at Le Galeriste!

Get an Aligned Design consultation today which includes custom energy art designed for you.

There are a lot of reasons to love Global Style Interior Design. One is that it is all about you, and telling the story of your life, adventures, the things you love  in your space. It is a total expression and celebration of you. Does that sound selfish? It’s OK, it is your house. Of course it is about you!

Each piece tells your story. Celebrate your  treasures, old and new. modern and vintage, from various parts of the world.

Create a rich tapestry of color, texture, art and history. 

In a previous article, I talked about 10 reasons to love global style design.  Let’s talk about my favorite reason, that it celebrates color, and how you can use it to spark some joy in your life.

Within global-style interior design, a captivating aspect that resonates with me is the vivacious spectrum of bold colors.

These hues are a direct reflection of the origins and cultures, drawing inspiration from the landscapes, flora, spices, national symbols, and even flags of various countries.

Although inherently vibrant, the world of global design also unveils remarkable instances where neutrals and whites harmoniously mingle with layers of textures and metallic accents.

To capture this essence, consider embracing bold choices—a striking wall color or an exquisite rug that becomes the palette’s cornerstone. These handmade, eco-friendly rugs are veritable artworks for your floor, blending utility and aesthetics.

You might derive your color palette from the rug, letting it inspire choices for walls, pillows, accessories, and art. Alternatively, if a more subdued backdrop appeals to you, allow your rug’s colors to shine as the focal point.

In essence, global-style design is a canvas of color that tells stories of distant lands and their distinctive identities. Whether bold or muted, these palettes are portals to culture, connecting your space with a world of history and beauty.

Here are some examples of some global style designs I have created using the color palettes of different countries, and often their rugs for inspiration.

Yellows, Golds and Orange

Yellows and golds are great colors to use in modern global style, Bohemian, Turkish,  Indian and Mexican style designs.

Above I created this beautiful Indian-style living room using a yellow/gold wall color. Learn more in my article Get the Look_ Global Style- Indian.

Below I created a modern global style Edesign for a living room using a a gorgeous handmade wool rug from Egypt as the centerpiece, and a gold wall color. The room would still have been beautiful with an off white wall color.

Blues and Greens

Blues and greens are wonderful for Greek Style, Moroccan, Modern Global and Bohemian. They really can be used in any global style design, but tend to be most prevalent in areas near the ocean.

Red, Pinks, Purples

Reds are very common in Turkish, Mexican, Bohemian and Modern Global styles. Pinks are often used in Turkish design. Purples are used in Indian, Moroccan, Bohemian and Modern Global styles. As an example, see my Edesign for a Modern Global Style bedroom below and some favorite rugs in these colors.

Black, White and Neutral

Try black, white or gray wall colors or area rugs to get the look of modern global style, Bohemian, Turkish, and Moroccan styles. As an example, see the Edesign I created above with light gray walls and a beautiful Moroccan rug.  Learn more in my article Great Paint Color Schemes- Black, White and Shades of Gray.

Below, I used a rich dark gray wall color and a beautiful Turkish rug. Learn more in my article  Do you Need an Alignment?

Black, white and neutrals can really be used with any style if you choose. Go neutral or add a color or two for high contrast.

Ready to Add Colorful and Exotic Design to Your Space?

Learn more about Global style design in my article, Tell Your Story with Global Style Interior Design.  Curious about what Global Style might be right for you? Take the quiz below. Ready to try to get the look in your own home? Try one of my Edesign packages.

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Global Style Interior Design weaves the narrative of your life’s journeys into your living space. Every artifact holds a tale, sparking engaging conversations. It’s a curated collection of treasures, both aged and contemporary, sourced from diverse corners of the world. This design approach creates a symphony of color, texture, art, and heritage. Dive into these 10 compelling reasons to embrace the global style, accompanied by decor inspirations to help you achieve this eclectic aesthetic

Global Style Celebrates Color

Global Style Interior Design captivates me, especially with its vibrant and bold hues. The colors that define a country often draw inspiration from its landscapes, flora, spices, emblems, and even its national flags, seldom settling for mere neutrals.

Global Style Celebrates Artisans

Global style is a mosaic of distinctive art, each piece echoing the vibrant hues and cultural nuances of different nations. For this Bohemian-style living room, I drew inspiration from my personal fractal art, a tribute to the sumptuous colors and intricate textures that epitomize Bohemian elegance.

Global Styles are Connected to the Outdoors

I’m enamored by how global styles often harmoniously intertwine their colors and patterns with nature. For instance, in the Greek-style living room I curated, the design is deeply resonant with the coastal vibes—reflecting the azure hues of the Greek sea and sky, the earthy tones of its rocky terrains, and the vibrant shades of its indigenous flora.

Global Style Loves Pattern and Color

Global style thrives on the artful fusion of captivating textures and intricate patterns. From the gentle caress of silk to the tactile embrace of textured wool, the allure of carved wood, and the sophistication of metals adorned with elaborate embossed or cut-out motifs—these elements converge harmoniously. When combined with the enchanting cultural patterns adorning rugs, pillows, and artwork, they create a masterpiece of layering. Just like this meticulously crafted design for a global style living room, where every glance reveals a tapestry of rich diversity and captivating allure.

Global Style Tells Your Story

Global style is your canvas to narrate your unique tale. Be it Bohemian whimsy or minimalist elegance, the charm of vintage or the edge of modern, vibrant hues or subdued palettes – it’s about weaving your narrative. Choose global elements that resonate with you, just like in this contemporary global style living room, and let your space echo your individuality

Global Styles Celebrate Culture and History

Global style reveres the rich tapestry of cultures and histories from which they emerge. It can be a singular ode to one nation or a melange of inspirations from across the globe. To truly encapsulate its essence, consider integrating decor unique to a specific culture. Take, for instance, this design inspired by Turkish aesthetics. Turkey, renowned for its exquisite Kilim rugs, beautifully exemplifies how specific cultural artifacts can elevate a space.

Global Style Celebrates the Magic of Lighting

The allure of global style designs is amplified by their captivating lighting choices. Often handcrafted, these luminaries feature intricate metal cutouts that cast enchanting patterns of light, akin to the magic found in many Moroccan and Turkish homes. Mexico also excels in crafting exquisite lighting, exemplifying how lighting transcends mere function to become a hallmark of beauty. 

Global Style Design Mixes Old and New

Global style is the perfect dance between the time-honored and the contemporary. In spaces like this Vintage Boho Office, there’s a seamless blend of the modern with relics from the past. Treasured items, such as Moroccan rugs, often bear the weight of generational stories. By interweaving cultural artifacts, cherished family heirlooms, and contemporary accents, you’re not just designing a space—you’re curating a visual biography of your life and lineage.

Global Style Celebrates Your Adventures

Global Style Interior Design is like weaving the chapters of your adventures into your living space. It brings to life the tales of places you’ve been by showcasing the treasures you’ve gathered along the way. Take, for instance, this Mexican-inspired dining area where the handmade lighting casts shadows reminiscent of Mexican evenings. It’s a sensory journey, right in your home.

Global Style is Eco-Friendly

Global style is intrinsically tied to nature, championing eco-friendly and sustainable design practices. Central to its ethos is the utilization of authentic, natural materials. From plush wool rugs that cradle your feet, to metallic accents that reflect tradition, intricately carved wooden furniture that narrates craftsmanship, to tactile leather and versatile rattan. There’s also the timeless appeal of natural stone and the earthen touch of pottery. Each element not only adds aesthetic value but also underscores a commitment to the environment and reverence for the natural world

Learn more about Global style design in my article, Tell Your Story with Global Style Interior Design.  Curious about what Global Style might be right for you? Take the quiz below. Ready to try to get the look in your own home? Try one of my Edesign packages.

Create Your Perfect Globally Inspired Space

Global styles are a perfect fit for aligning art, science, and energy to create a space perfectly aligned to support you. Get a consultation today.

Given the principles of your Aligned Design system, which focuses on harmonizing beauty, color science, and well-being, it’s clear why global design styles are a seamless fit. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Art of Beauty: Global design styles inherently celebrate the beauty of various cultures. Every piece, from a handwoven rug from Morocco to carved wooden artifacts from Bali, is a testament to the artistic skills honed over generations. This beauty aligns well with the art-centric facet of Aligned Design.

2. Science of Color: Global design taps into a vast palette influenced by natural landscapes, cultural festivities, and traditional crafts from around the world. The colors aren’t just aesthetically pleasing but are steeped in cultural significance. The Aligned Design system, with its emphasis on the science of color, can leverage these rich palettes to evoke specific feelings and energies.

3. Energy of Well-being: Global styles often prioritize natural, eco-friendly materials that resonate with the energy of the earth. Materials like wood, stone, and organic fabrics not only have a minimal ecological footprint but also exude an innate warmth and grounding energy. This aligns perfectly with Aligned Design’s goal of promoting well-being.

4. Personal Resonance: Global design, with its myriad of styles, allows individuals to choose elements that truly resonate with them. Whether it’s a memory from a trip or a connection to one’s roots, these design elements can serve as a reflection of personal journeys and transformations.

5. Transformational Journey: As people evolve, so can their interiors. Global design styles are versatile, allowing spaces to evolve and adapt. This fluidity is perfectly suited for individuals on transformational journeys, ensuring their spaces always align with their current phase of life.

6. Holistic Integration: The Aligned Design system, in aiming for harmony and balance, would appreciate global design’s holistic approach. Every element in global design has a story, a purpose, and an energy, ensuring a space is more than just visually appealing—it becomes a sanctuary for growth and well-being.

Given these alignments, it’s evident that global design styles can beautifully complement and enrich your design using my Aligned Design system, creating spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and deeply nurturing. Need help? Let’s do a consultation and see what’s possible.

Call 907-362-0065 today

 info@northernlightsstaging.com

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Want a beautiful house? The key to success is to make a plan! Figure out what you need to create the design you want, and if it fits in your budget before you buy a single thing!

Make a Plan

You are much more likely to get the end result you want if you start with a plan!

Often, people start buying things they like, hoping that it will all work together. This may not work because the styles or colors may not fit well together, or they may end up buying too many colors and patterns because they have no unifying theme to work toward.

Sometimes homeowners select finishes such as flooring and counter tops and get excited and rush into other aspects such as painting and selecting furniture without thinking it all through. I get it, once you start, it’s hard to pause because you just want to see the end result!

To get an end result that will make you happy though , stop…., take time and make a plan first.

So how do you develop a great plan?

Start with your vision

Say you want to redo your master bedroom. Picture what your perfect master bedroom would look and feel like if you could have everything you want with no limitations.  What would make you happy? How would you feel in the space? What activities do you want to do in the space? What style is the space? Do you like to change things up on a regular basis and want future flexibility or do you want the space to stay the same for a long time? Once you have the ideal room in your mind, you can try to work with your space, budget and time to create something as close as possible to your dream room.

Develop a budget and timeline

For now, this just needs to be a realistic picture of how much money you are willing to spend and how much time are you willing to devote to get it done.

Determine what you have to work with

Fixed Finishes and Architectural Elements

Some things in your space like your fixed finishes may be “bossy” and can’t be ignored.  The size of the room and existing architectural features  such as your windows, doors, fireplace, counter tops etc. are unlikely to change and need to be considered. What colors are they?  How will they affect the color palette, layout and style of your design? Of course, part of your plan may be to change some of these things.

Furniture, Art, Accessories

Do you have things you love and want to highlight in the room? Maybe a piece of furniture or art that is an heirloom or has special meaning? A beautiful rug that you love and want to use? What are the sizes and colors are some of these items?

How will the Space Be Used?

What will you do in your space?  Who will be using it? Do you have children, pets or a significant other that you need to consider in selecting colors or finishes so they will like it too, and the finishes will stand up to the use?

What Needs to Change?

What do you have to or want to change? Do you need a paint job or new flooring? Don’t decide on your colors and materials just yet. Now, just identify that you need them, and come up with general ideas on materials you prefer such as carpeting vs hardwood flooring, or quartz vs marble countertops etc.

What Needs Replacing?

You know you hate your credenza and art  for example, and want to purchase something new. Create a general wish list for the new items, without deciding yet on the exact items.

Energy art can play a huge role in not only making your space beautiful but supporting you in being the person you want to be. See all my energy art at Fine Art America and let me guide you in how it can support you.

Select Your Color Palette

Color is key in pulling it all together, tying the bossy items together with the new items. A color strategist can measure the colors you have in your fixed finishes and inspiration pieces, and provide great recommendations for new flooring, countertops, paint colors, and furniture and accessories so it all works together. What order do you select everything in?

• If you are putting in new flooring or countertops, select these first.
• Select paint next. It is much easier to find a paint color to work with your flooring and countertops than the other way around. If you select a more neutral wall color, it can provide you with greater flexibility in the future to change colors in your rugs, pillows, and accent pieces

Check Your Budget

Check your budget. Are you still on track? Don’t forget to include labor and design costs. If not, where can you adjust.

Work in a Logical Order

• Do your remodeling-flooring, counter tops, painting.
• Develop a floor plan to arrange furniture around your focal points or highlight your inspiration pieces.
• Select new items last. Pick furniture, rugs, accessories that work with your vision, inspiration pieces and color palette.

Get Help With Your Plan

Developing a great plan can take some work and expertise. Try my Aligned Design consultation which considers design, color and energy to pull it all together so you get the end result you love and avoid costly mistakes.

Design is about more than just looks. Take this quiz.

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Some colors are just plain bossy. You might want to ignore them, but you can’t. And you shouldn’t.

It is not that they are overly bold or colorful.  They are just in your face. Every Single Day.

They are your fixed finishes. The things you rarely change unless you are doing some significant remodeling.

They are your countertops, your floors, and architectural features such as stone or brick walls or fireplaces, or other predominant features. 

They are the things that you do not plan to change any time soon.

They are “bossy” because they will be there for a long time, they take a lot of space and are often in your main living areas such as your kitchen or living room.

Hopefully, you like your fixed finishes. Everything really needs to work with them. 

As an example, say you have Clarino quartz countertops and wood cabinets and flooring, you might consider a light-colored paint that is harmonious with the exact colors in the countertop, and that is also harmonious with the hue family of the wood cabinets and flooring.

How do you do that? Have a color strategist measure the exact colors in both the countertop and your wood cabinets and flooring. They will consider the hue family, color saturation, lightness, and color relationships.

There is a range of color choices that could work. Most countertops have numerous colors in them that can be matched. Or, you could consider a color that is in the same hue family or has similar chroma. Or, you could try a complementary color

The key thing is to consider the color data of all the colors in your fixed finishes and develop your color choices on color data, rather than guesswork or considerations of imaginary undertones. Of course, it needs to look good too, and you can not rely on data alone. Extraordinary color is the perfect mix of art and science.

Once you know the options that could work,  consider which works best with the fabrics, art, and furniture in the rooms you are working with as well as the rest of the home.

It is all a big puzzle that needs to work together.  The first pieces you put down are your fixed finishes and you build from there.

Creating a home that not only looks great but feels great, comes from all the pieces working together in harmony. 

This includes the creativity of great design, the science of color, and the energy of how you relate to your space and the environment.  

People often want to do color consultations without considering the whole picture and the Interior Design of the rest of the house. Something will always be missing.

My tip to you is when it is time to pick your paint colors, hire a pro to help you, and take a holistic approach to look at color with the rest of your home’s design.

Are You Ready to Listen to Your Bossy Colors?

You can also start by just choosing paint colors for your room now, and think about a complete design plan later.

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Does choosing paint colors make you anxious?

It’s common because many don’t understand color science, even some experts. There’s a lot of misleading information about selecting paint colors, leaving many confused and unsure.

Don’t worry!

The easiest way to confidently choose your colors is by seeking advice from a real color expert. Ignore the internet clutter and well-meaning, but potentially misguided, advice from friends and family. Here are some essential things to remember.

Don’t Listen to Friends, Family or the Internet

Everyone might suggest colors for your space, but remember, most of these suggestions may not be right for you. Why?

They aren’t you; they don’t know your personal tastes. They don’t live in your home; they don’t know how your fixed finishes look in various lights. They don’t see colors the way you do; everyone’s vision and perception are unique. Unless they’re trained color strategists, capable of interpreting color data, they don’t have the full picture to make the best color choices

Steer clear of seeking advice from online forums like Houzz. Photos of your home can’t accurately convey your space’s unique colors – they’ll look different on every screen and won’t reflect your home’s true hues. A color combo that works in one home might not suit yours. 

Anyone advising based on a photo simply doesn’t understand color well enough.

Determine What Colors You Really Like

Seems straightforward, but choosing from countless colors can be daunting! Start by identifying colors that bring you joy and make you feel good. It might be easier to start by ruling out colors you strongly dislike

Narrow Color Choices Based on Fixed Finishes

Once you know what you really like, you do need to consider some “limitations” on what you can pick. They are your fixed finishes and narrow your choices to ones that look good with those things you are unlikely to change any time soon such as flooring, countertops, stonework, and more, Some Colors Are Bossy. Will You Listen to Them? to learn more.

Stay in a Lane

Commonly, homeowners mix grays and browns, leading to less-than-ideal results. With the passing gray trend, many people paired gray elements with their brown woodwork, but this often looks off.

The key to blending grays and browns is using the right hues, values, and chroma – something color science can help with.

But without this understanding, it’s best to stick to either grays or browns. Choose a lane (gray or brown) and select colors that harmonize with your choice

Ignore Undertones

There’s a lot of misinformation online about ‘undertones.’ People often use ‘undertone’ to describe how they see a color in a specific location, lighting, and time. However, this is subjective and inconsistent.

In reality, an ‘undertone’ is the color revealed when a paint layer is scraped off.

So, don’t get caught up in discussions about undertones. It’s likely to add confusion rather than clarity.

Don’t Paint a Bunch of Samples on a Wall Next to Each Other

When choosing paint colors, whether on your own or with an expert, painting samples in your space to observe them under different lighting conditions is crucial.

Many people paint various color samples side by side on a white background to compare. However, this isn’t effective. Why?

 Because each color alters how you perceive the adjacent one due to a phenomenon called ‘simultaneous contrast.

For instance, if you paint a dark color like ‘Moscow Midnight’ on a white background, the white makes it seem darker and grayer. Similarly, painting complementary colors (those opposite each other on the color wheel) side by side can make them appear more vibrant. For example, green seems greener when next to red, and vice versa. 

So, be mindful of this when comparing color samples.

It is better to paint on paper or something moveable rather than the wall, and look at colors individually in different light conditions.

When colors that aren’t complementary, like red and orange, are placed next to each other, they subtly affect each other’s appearance. For instance, red might make orange look slightly greenish, and orange could give red a slightly bluish tint.

I know, it might sound odd! But that’s one of the fascinating aspects of color science.

So, when evaluating colors, avoid painting a wall full of samples side by side. It complicates things! Instead, examine each color individually.

Look at Your Colors on a Gray Background- Not White

Many think white is the perfect neutral background to test colors. While it’s true that adjacent colors can influence your perception, white is not the solution. Just like other colors, white comes in various shades and can influence how your chosen color appears.

More importantly, the concept of ‘undertones’ that many refer to is often just a subjective opinion about the origin of a particular white or gray. In reality, this can be scientifically determined in seconds without painting anything.

The key issue with testing colors against a white background is that it can make all colors seem washed out, darker, duller, and less colorful. But once you paint your space, the color will appear much lighter, brighter, and more vibrant than expected.

For example, if you test Sherwin Williams ‘Moscow Midnight’ against a white background, it will look different than when applied to a full room.

Testing colors against a black background? It also distorts the appearance of your color, but in the opposite way to white. Black makes colors look lighter, brighter, and more colorful. When applied to a whole room, the color might look darker and duller than expected.

So, what’s the solution? Test your colors on a gray background. Gray is the most neutral color and will have the least influence on your chosen color. For example, Moscow Midnight appears truer to its actual color when viewed against gray.

Don’t Let Your Whites Look Dirty

Choosing white might seem simple, but it can be trickier than you think. Every white has a hint of color, or hue, with minimal chroma or saturation. If you’re planning to use different whites in the same space, ensure they harmonize well.

Whites that are too similar in color values can make each other appear ‘dirty’. So, picking the right whites can be just as important as choosing your main colors.

Find One Thing In Common

Creating a harmonious color scheme involves having a shared element – be it hue, value, or chroma – across your selections. Make sure to maintain this common thread throughout your home for a cohesive look

Use the Color Wheel to Make a Plan

After identifying your favorite colors that also complement your fixed finishes, the next step is forming a color scheme. A color wheel can be a great tool here, helping you see which color relationships you’re drawn to. You might prefer a monochromatic or complementary scheme, or perhaps a diad, triad, or tetrad arrangement. A split complementary scheme could also work well. 

With the help of a color wheel and color science, you can create a scheme that truly resonates with you. A color strategist can really help with this.

Use the Science of Color to get Extraordinary Color

Color science is a powerful tool. It helps pinpoint your favorite colors, select options that match your fixed finishes, create a harmonious color palette, and even choose the ideal whites. It removes the guesswork, ensuring fantastic results the first time around.

Embracing color science can elevate your color choices to a new level, leading to extraordinary results. If you’re unsure, consider hiring a professional with color science knowledge. The outcome will undoubtedly be worthwhile.

You are Making My Head Hurt

Now that I have told you how to not screw up your paint colors, you may be realizing that color is more complex than you thought.

Understanding the complexity of color might make you second-guess advice from well-meaning friends or even online experts. But why listen to me? Well, don’t just take my word for it – trust the science.

Many might ignore the science of color, preferring to rely solely on their ‘eyes’ and the art of color, as it seems simpler and more enjoyable. However, combining both the science and art of color leads to quicker, easier, and ultimately more stunning results

Are You Ready to Try a New Approach?

As a certified color strategist, I combine the art and science of color to eliminate guesswork and help you select the perfect paint colors. Let’s bypass the misinformation and aim for accurate, stress-free color selection the first time around, saving you time and money. Ready for a fresh approach?

Stop stressing about picking your paint colors and finishes with this science-based 2-hour color consultation. Learn More.

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