Blog


DBR Design Blog





 The Timeless Elegance: Benefits of Timeless Interior Design


In the fast-paced world of design trends and fads, there's something captivating about the enduring charm of timeless interior design. Timelessness in design doesn't just offer aesthetic appeal; it brings forth a range of benefits that make it a coveted choice for creating spaces that stand the test of time.


1. **Enduring Appeal**: Timeless interior design transcends passing fads, ensuring your space remains visually appealing for years to come. Classic elements and neutral color palettes provide a foundation that doesn't feel outdated as trends evolve.


2. **Longevity**: Investing in timeless design means your space won't need frequent updates. This not only saves you money in the long run but also reduces environmental impact by minimizing the need for excessive consumption.


3. **Versatility**: Timeless designs are versatile and can adapt to different functions and aesthetics. Whether you're in the mood for a rustic, modern, or eclectic twist, a timeless base provides a canvas to play with various styles.


4. **Quality Over Quantity**: Timeless design encourages investing in high-quality, durable pieces that are built to last. This shift from disposable to durable design promotes sustainability and mindful consumption.


5. **Personalization**: While timeless design incorporates classic elements, it leaves room for personalization. Add unique touches through artwork, textiles, and accessories that reflect your personality and style.


6. **Resale Value**: Timeless interiors often have broader appeal, enhancing the resale value of your property. Potential buyers are more likely to appreciate a well-designed space that doesn't require immediate updates.


7. **Minimalist Aesthetic**: The elegance of timeless design often lies in its simplicity. Clean lines, well-proportioned furniture, and uncluttered spaces create a serene environment that promotes relaxation and focus.


8. **Nostalgic Comfort**: Timeless design can evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort. Elements that have withstood the test of time can create a sense of familiarity and coziness within a space.


9. **Less Stressful Renovations**: With timeless design, renovation decisions become less daunting. Changing accent pieces or updating colors can breathe new life into the space without the need for a complete overhaul.


10. **Cultivating a Cultured Space**: Incorporating timeless pieces from different eras and styles can create a layered, cultured space that reflects a deep appreciation for design history.


In a world where trends come and go, timeless interior design offers an anchor of stability and elegance. It's a celebration of quality, enduring beauty, and the art of crafting spaces that truly stand the test of time. So, whether you're decorating a new home or revamping an existing space, consider embracing the allure of timeless design for a truly captivating and lasting interior.



Coastal Interior Design


Coastal interior design is all about bringing the beauty and tranquility of the ocean into your home. It's a design style that is inspired by the beach, the sand, and the sea. Coastal design is not just about decorating with seashells and anchors, it's about creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel like you're on a vacation every day. In this blog post, we'll explore the latest trends in coastal interior design.


1. Natural Materials


One of the latest trends in coastal interior design is the use of natural materials. This includes wood, stone, and other materials that are found in nature. These materials are used in furniture, flooring, and accessories to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that is reminiscent of the beach.


2. Neutral Colors


Neutral colors are a staple of coastal interior design. Shades of white, beige, and gray are the perfect backdrop for pops of blue and green that are inspired by the ocean. These colors create a calming and soothing atmosphere that is perfect for a coastal home.


3. Nautical Accents


Nautical accents are a classic element of coastal interior design, and they're still very much in style. This includes rope, anchors, and other elements that are inspired by the sea. These accents can be used in artwork, pillows, and other accessories to add a touch of coastal charm to any room.


4. Woven Textures


Woven textures are another trend in coastal interior design. This includes natural fibers such as jute, sisal, and seagrass. These textures can be used in rugs, baskets, and other accessories to add a touch of warmth and texture to a room.


5. Indoor-Outdoor Living


Coastal living is all about being connected to the outdoors, and indoor-outdoor living is a trend that reflects that. This includes creating outdoor living spaces that are an extension of your indoor space. This can include outdoor kitchens, dining areas, and lounges that are designed to be comfortable and inviting.


6. Sustainable Design


Sustainable design is becoming more and more important in all areas of interior design, and coastal design is no exception. This includes using eco-friendly materials and practices, such as reclaimed wood and energy-efficient lighting. This not only helps to protect the environment, but it also creates a healthier home for you and your family.


In conclusion, coastal interior design is a style that is inspired by the beauty and tranquility of the ocean. By incorporating natural materials, neutral colors, nautical accents, woven textures, indoor-outdoor living, and sustainable design, you can create a coastal home that is both beautiful and functional. Whether you live by the beach or in the city, coastal design is a trend that can work in any home.


Feng Shui


Feng Shui is a practice that originated in China, and it is based on the idea that there are invisible forces in our environment that can have a significant impact on our quality of life. Feng shui practitioners believe that by manipulating these invisible forces, we can create more harmonious relationships between ourselves and our homes.


The goal of Feng Shui is to create balance and harmony in your home. If you do this, then it will be easier for you to achieve success in all areas of your life.


Feng Shui is not just about decorating your house in order to make it look pretty—it's about creating a space where you feel comfortable and happy so that you can thrive.




Wall Murals


Wall Murals are all over the place inside and outside!  From Artists creating masterpieces on the side of buildings to wallpaper! Walls are a great way to to add color and graphics in a BIG way!

Murals are an automatic EASY statement to any room in one step. While murals date back as far back to ancient Egyptian times (see what I did there?), this highly impactful technique is on the rise and now, it is more popular than ever!

Some mural trends we are seeing this year are:

 

  • Pop Art
  • Maps
  • Whimsical
  • Abstract color
  • Landscapes
  • Famous paintings such as Monet
  • Modern geometric shapes
  • Retro

 

We are seeing some amazing wall murals as a backdrop to living rooms, offices, babies rooms and showers! Yes SHOWERS! Companies such as https://www.wallanddeco.com/en-us/ are creating waterproof wallpapers! Aaahhmazzzing!

Last, don't think fabulous art has to be on a flat surface.  1 large graphic on top of bricks, tiles, cement and mosaics is a creative way to add beauty, interest and texture!


Styling Your Bookshelves

One of the simplest and most inexpensive ways to bring change to a room is to restyle the bookshelves.  
Your bookshelves can showcase who you are, where you have been, family and interests.  
Try to ‘shop' your own home first. Take a look around and see what you already have and love. 
While it may seem like a daunting task, try these few simple tips and tricks as a starting point.  

Let’s start by clearing off the shelves bare and go from there.

Shelf Styling Recipe
 
Books

Use your books as decor – break away from the rows and rows of books end to end.
Instead, try stacking a few books together by laying them flat and have a few upright for variety.

Balance

Create visual balance when placing items on the shelves.  
Think of a Zig Zag pattern (see fig.1) Grouping items in odd numbers like 3 & 5’s gives a more
interesting visual balance.

Blend

Add in layers with artwork, framed photos and loved objects. These pieces can add depth and interest to the shelves by mixing in a variation of finishes, materials, and texture. Use baskets for storage and metallics for interests and sparkle.

Step back, edit and have fun!
Fig.1 example of 
Zig Zag balance
Here are some of my FAVORITE PRODUCTS for a book shelf! Sure to spruce it up!
These bookends are super cute! I used this in my "coastal chic" dream home project! Buy here now:

Creative Co-op 
Whale Shaped...
$36.64

Check out these colorful frames! This will add color to any room! Buy here now:

IMAX 70979-3 
Carson...
$50.05

These vases are a nice compliment for the colorful frames! Buy here now:

IMAX 25016-3 
Agatha...
$89.10

You can't have a bookshelf without some greenery! Check out this plant arrangement! Super cute! Buy here now:

Supla Artificial 
Pre-Made...
$34.99


Why Hire an Interior Designer?

1. Save Money. It might sound strange that hiring someone to decorate your home would save you money since you have the additional fee of the designer. “Hiring a designer can help you to avoid costly mistakes that will not only help you save money but can increase the value of your home.” Especially when selling your home – interior design is essential when listing your home. It can help boost buyer appeal and set your home above the competition.

2. Professional Assessment. “A designer can give you a professional assessment of your situation, that will will lead to a solid plan of action. The order of things in a design plan is key in determining what can be repurposed or should be edited. This will not only effect the budget but help you to spend it more efficiently.” A designer offers an extra set of eyes, but these eyes are trained to see and notice things that you may not.

3. Budgeting and Planning. A designer can keep you on budget and save you time and effort. A designer knows where to go for resources for everything related to your home. This will save you endless amounts of time researching products, brands and prices. A designer will have all this readily on hand, and should he or she not, will spend the time researching so that you don’t have to.

4. Liaison.  A designer will be able to build “a stronger bridge between you and your architect or contractor early on and can head off design misses in your overall plan. This is crucial in managing time and money. Also designers are trained to think about things we may overlook. “It’s so important that the lighting and furnishing needs are addressed before construction. If your living room sofa is floating in a the middle of the room you want to make sure you have the proper placement for floor outlets.”

5. Wide availability of resources.  There are things available to designers that are not available to the general public in terms of connections, resources and general merchandise. By culminating these resources designers can help to make your space look more collected, unique and pulled together.

6. Contacts. “In addition to vendor resources, designers have many home improvement industry contacts. They can save homeowners time and headaches trying to identify reliable, contractors, plumbers and electricians for their projects.”

7. Wow Factor. Designers can help to give you the “wow” factor you’ve been looking for. They are trained to think differently, spatially and to see an overall picture that clients often cannot. “Thinking outside of the box is what designers do all day long.”

8.Home sale. A decorator can potentially add a great deal to the aesthetic of your home, which in turn can increase showings and sales. This increased appeal can exponentially speed up the amount of time your home sits on the market before it is sold. The benefit here is two-fold, a faster turn-around time and more money in your pocket.

9. A trained eye. “A designer is a professional with a trained eye that can automatically tell you if there is something wrong or right with a space. Having that immediate consult is a major advantage when making aesthetic decisions. It is the result of years of experience.” Often times homeowners try to do it all themselves and get frustrated.

10. Visual story-teller “Interior design is a skill and an art that will only enhance the space and the quality of your life in the space. Hiring a pro raises the level of that experience and makes your house a home. A designer can help you tell your visual story. I can’t think of a better reason than that!”

Our Home is Our Office

Wow, life seemed to change in an instant. Where work was once relegated to the office, and learning happened in schools’ families are now having to share the same space. As our homes have to function as offices and school rooms, it may be time to rethink how we can create a physical space designed to serve as a home office that is attractive and functional.

Let’s get started.

Set an Intention
Before moving anything, consider what you need and what space would be best to function as a home office – envision yourself in the space and think about what you need.

Shop your Home 
Look around, what furniture do I already own that I can repurpose to create a home office?
 
Decorate for Success 
  • Clear the clutter Use decorative baskets and boxes to hold papers. Have only the documents you are working on in front of you. It will make it easier to move papers out of the way if the desk is shared.
  • Position your desk in the feng shui commanding position - which simply means try not to have your back to the door or facing a wall. Try to be facing outwards. This brings an open and welcoming feeling.
  • Air and LightLet the natural light and air in, this has the biggest impact on our mood and uplifting our spirits. If this is hard to do get an air-purifier and a fan. Light up the area with lamps directed to the areas needed. 
  • Also, adding air-purifying plants to the space will help with the energy of the room and you!
  • And finally, include the family in planning the daily schedules. It helps to set boundaries and expectations of the day.  
Be creative and have fun!

Here are some of my favorite products: 

II love this task light. It has many different mood settings and BONUS a built in charger! Buy here now:

TaoTronics TT-
DL13B LED...
$41.99

This desk is totally chic and on Trend! You guys know I love GOLD! Buy here now:

Nathan James
53301...

<For a beautiful desk with darker tones and a great brand, consider this! Buy here now:

Signature Design 
by Ashley...
$264.81

This ergonomic chair has AMAZING lumbar support! We use it and can sit in it for hours! Buy here now:

Duramont 
Ergonomic...
$319.99

Here is an ergonomic chair in white! Buy here now:

Allguest Office 
Chair Home...
$214.99


Clear the Clutter to Create Space

While we are home during this challenging time, let us take this as an opportunity to do those things that we say, ‘I’ll do it tomorrow.’

Let's begin by finding a space in your home that needs attention. For instance, clearing off ‘that’ chair, going through closets and drawers, clearing off the papers & bills stacked on your kitchen counter, or even the bigger projects, like clearing out the garage. 

The size of the space or the project is not critical, it’s the intention that matters.

Start by removing all items from the space you want clear. Have three different boxes or bags to sort the items into:

1. To Keep
2. To throw away or recycle
3. To sell, donate or giveaway

As you go through each of your items, ask yourself; 
Do I love it?
Do I need it?
Do I use it?

Feng Shui asks that you surround yourself only with items that you love, use or need.  
Time to use the ‘Marie Kondo’ method of sparking joy?  
If these items do not have any more use – it's time to let it go, pass it on.

By Rania Yacoub 16 Feb, 2023
Feng shui is a practice that originated in China, and it is based on the idea that there are invisible forces in our environment that can have a significant impact on our quality of life. Feng shui practitioners believe that by manipulating these invisible forces, we can create more harmonious relationships between ourselves and our homes.

The goal of feng shui is to create balance, peace and harmony in your home. If you do this, then it will be easier for you to achieve success in all areas of your life.

Feng shui is not just about decorating your house in order to make it look pretty—it's about creating a space where you feel comfortable and happy so that you can thrive.

Rania is a certified Feng Shui practioner and can help you achieve all these things in your home.  Not getting work done in your home office? There's a solution to that!  Not getting restful sleep?  There's a solution to that as well! Contact us today to get things right!
By websitebuilder 10 Feb, 2017
I have finally decided to take the plunge and add a blog to my site. I always wanted an easy way to share information with visitors and I’m super excited to start this journey. Keep coming back to my site and check for updates right here on the blog.
By websitebuilder 10 Feb, 2017
Anyone can make one:
For better or worse, anyone can write a blog post about anything they want. Everyone has a voice and the best voices will rise to the top.

The writer can show their personality:
In blog posts, the writer has more leeway to add in their voice and personality than other types of writing.

Blogs are a great form of mass communication:
You can help people, learn new things, entertain your audience—the possibilities are endless and amazing. Blogging opens up all of these to a very wide audience.

You can make money:

Get the right blog going and you can make a lot of money through advertising and sponsored posts.

It allows people to craft better thoughts:
Instead of reading haphazard, uneducated Facebook statuses, it’s much better to see people’s thought process in a well-written blog post.

You can establish a community:
Blogging allows you to connect with other individuals who share the same interests. Sharing ideas and opinions within your community helps establish yourself as a thought leader.

Good for SEO:
Keeping content on your site fresh and relevant, you can use your blog to boost the search engine ranking (SEO) of your site and your business.

It brings people back to your site:

If your blog is strong enough and updated regularly, people will come back looking for more and bring traffic back to your site as well.

It’s free:
It costs you a grand total of zero dollars to post to the blog, so if you have something to say, there’s nothing to stop you.

You can establish yourself as a thought leader:

A blog is a great place for your original thoughts, and it can be a wonderful way to show off your individuality. If people like your ideas, you can become a thought leader in your industry!

What else do you love about blogs? Let me know!
Show More
Share by: