Posts in Home decorating
The Value of Authenticity: Why Homeowners Should Skip the Interior Design Dupe Craze and Invest in Real Products

It’s not just fake boobs, fake butts, and even fake virtual “homes” (we think we’re living in) we’re glorifying. We do it in the realm of interior design too.  In today's age of social media platforms like Tik Tok and Instagram and even online shopping, it's easy to get swept away by the allure of interior design dupes—affordable imitations of high-end products. While these knockoffs might initially seem appealing due to their budget-friendly nature, there are several compelling reasons why homeowners should invest in authentic interior design products instead. Let’s look at the value of true authenticity in interior design and discuss the benefits it brings to your home.

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The Shift Away from Farmhouse Style: Why I’m So Over It

In recent years, the farmhouse style has taken the interior design world by storm, with its rustic charm and cozy aesthetics capturing the hearts of many homeowners. Chip and Joanna Gaines shocked us all into this particular style when Fixer Upper first aired back in 2013 and it has definitely had a strong hold on the interior design industry…in fact, it blew it up!

Having said that, trends in interior design are ever-evolving, and what was once highly sought after can gradually fall out of favor. While I have seen some pretty amazing farmhouse style homes, (kudos to the designers who nailed it), it feels overdone…just like the use of granite countertops! That topic is definitely for another blog post, so stay tuned. This blog post aims to explore the reasons behind the current and fading unpopularity of the farmhouse style and shed light on the emerging trends that are shaping the design landscape.

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The Power of Statement Lighting in Home Design

In a previous blog post, we established the sad reality that lighting is often overlooked or underestimated. Once that basic foundation is realized and applied, you’re ready to take your living space to the next level! Incorporating statement lighting into your design can make a world of difference, elevating the ambiance and aesthetic appeal of your space. Think of that beautiful statement jewelry piece you adorn when attending a gala or a formal dinner. It becomes the star of the show. You want it to stand out from the rest.

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How Art Can Add Luxury to Your Bathroom

When it comes to designing or decorating a bathroom, many people focus solely on practical elements such as storage, lighting, and fixtures. Although those things are important, adding art to your bathroom can be a great way to add personality and a touch of luxury to the space.

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5 Spring High Point Market Trends I Love

One of my favorite things about High Point Market is seeing the new trends in furniture and décor. There is always so much to see, but never enough time. It can be overwhelming if you don’t have a plan. It’s impossible to see everything!

Even though I wasn’t able to visit all of the showrooms I “favorited” on the High Point Market app, I was able to hit some really amazing ones. Plus, it’s just an excuse to add the missed ones to my strategy for Fall Market later this year (wink, wink).

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How We Create a Uniquely Modern Living Room

At Shades of Gray Design Studio, we love to create one-of-a-kind, modern living rooms! Modern living rooms are often characterized by their sleek, clean lines and minimalist design, but there are many ways to add personality and warmth to this type of space. We’re sharing some tips and ideas we use to create a modern living room that is both stylish and unique.

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7 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Fall for the "Free" Design Service at Furniture Retail Stores

When it comes to designing a home, a lot of people seek free design services at retail furniture stores. While that option may seem like you’ll save more money, it actually won’t. It might look good and sound good, but please don’t be deceived…be prepared to have your eyes opened.

We’re going to discuss seven (7) reasons why you shouldn’t fall for the “free design service” trap. Ready? Here we go!

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5 Ways Abstract Art Can Add a Wow Factor to Your Living Space

Are you looking to add some character, personality, and wow factor to your living space? One way to achieve this is by incorporating abstract art into your home decor. Abstract art is a form of art that does not attempt to represent an accurate depiction of a visual reality but rather uses shapes, colors, and textures to create a unique and expressive composition. Although it can be infused into a variety of styles, you typically see it displayed in more contemporary spaces. Here are a few ways abstract art can elevate your home.

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Why You Should Consider Custom Furniture for Your Interior Design Project

When it comes to designing your home, one of the most important decisions you'll make is selecting the right furniture. While there are plenty of great retail options available on the market, investing in custom furniture can offer a range of benefits that make it well worth the extra cost. Let’s explore some of the reasons why you should consider investing in custom furniture for your next design project.

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(VIDEO) How to Select Cohesive Colors for Your Home

One of the most challenging concepts of decorating your home, is selecting the right colors that will flow well from room to room. Our video will walk you through some simple ways you can achieve the look you want in your space without pulling all of your hair out in the process!

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(VIDEO) Using Dark Colors

Don’t be afraid of the dark! Most people are already uncertain about choosing colors for their home that go beyond the “neutrals” of beige or white. So you know they appear to be deathly afraid of using dark colors for fear it will feel cave-like. Not so! Using dark colors in your space can be magical! Our video discusses how stepping out of your comfort zone by using moodier colors, can take your next decorating or design project to the next level!

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5 Tips For Bringing More Nature Into Your Home

Hey y’all! Spring is right around the corner. How did that happen? Here a few tips for bringing nature into your home and reflecting those spring vibes all year long! There is so much hustle and bustle in our world today, and it’s so nice to have that feeling of calm when everything else feels chaotic…

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So Fresh. So Clean: How to Freshen Up Your Space for the New Year

Ever since we hit the ground running to start a new decade, we’ve been hearing all about trends for 2020 and how beautiful this new tile is or how durable this flooring is. But most of us aren’t involved in renos so I say, just start out simple and work in phases if that’s the goal. Get it clean. Get it fresh. Keep it simple. Read on for some really easy ways to achieve this.

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5 Things You Need to Stop Doing When Decorating Your Home

Aaaaahhhhh…the joys of decorating your home! Don’t you love it? No. I thought you might say that. In fact, I’m sure you have a few choice words for how you really feel. I get it. You want it to be fun but you don’t like to shop, it’s frustrating because it seems nothing works for your space, and truth be told - you’re just plain tired so it’s like, whatever.

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5 Tips on How to Shop for Home Decor Like a Pro

We’ve all been there…you binged watch every episode of Fixer Upper and Flip or Flop for every state and now you have the perfect vision for how you want your living room to look! You hop in the car all excited, speed to your nearest home décor store holding on to this amazing, newfound revelation. You can’t wait to pin the photos of your upcoming magazine-worthy room on Pinterest.

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