Posts Tagged ‘interior design’

Open Floor Plan Vs Closed: Our Tulsa-Based Interior Design Firm’s Perspective

The age-old debate continues: are open floor plans or individual rooms better? At Kirkendall Design, we understand the importance of finding what truly suits your family’s needs. With three decades of interior design experience in design-build projects, we’re here to provide expert guidance.

Let’s start by looking at the pros and cons.

Open Floor Plans

open floor plan and interior design by Kirkendall Design in Tulsa Oklahoma

Pros

  • Allows for larger space to gather
  • Provides for the transfer of natural light through all of the spaces
  • Opportunities for “through views” (i.e., viewing multiple areas from one vantage point)
  • Spaces feel larger even if they are not

Cons

  • More noise transfer
  • Challenge to make open floor plan feel cozy at times
  • Harder to keep clean and tidy since everything is seen at once
  • Less privacy

Closed Floor Plans

floor plan example and interior design and decor by Kirkendall Design in Tulsa Oklahoma

Pros

  • It can create a more cozy and intimate feel
  • More privacy
  • More opportunities to add colors, textures, and design elements from room to room

Cons

  • It can feel cramped and closed off if not designed well
  • More challenging to host large groups

Remember, you don’t have to pick one over the other. You can blend the two together to create a home that perfectly suits your lifestyle. With an interior designer like Kirkendall Design, at the helm of your project, you’re in good hands no matter which direction you choose. 

Our Interior Design Services

Our space planning services cater to a variety of needs:

  • New Home Builds: For those embarking on new home builds, we meticulously review construction documents to ensure optimal room sizes and seamless flow throughout your home.
  • Renovations: Need to reconfigure a closed-off or clunky space? We offer expert elevations, drawings, and construction services to reimagine your existing layout.
  • Furniture & Space Planning: Through our interior design industry partnerships, we provide access to top-quality, custom furniture and collaborate with you to design space plans that are the right scale, size, and layout for your home – no matter the floor plan!

So, are you team open floor plan or closed-off? Whichever side you lean toward, our interior design team –serving the Tulsa area and beyond– is ready to come alongside you to help craft a home that not only meets your needs but also tells your unique story.

Submit a design request to schedule your complimentary discovery call and get started!

Designer Spotlight: 1930s Renovation Project

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Exterior shot of 1930s renovation project in Tulsa OK by Kirkendall Design, full service interior design firm

Thank you to everyone who attended our Designer Spotlight event last month. We enjoyed discussing the unique interior design features of this beautiful 1930s renovation project, a testament to the exceptional work of the entire Kirkendall Design team. It was fun to share our enthusiasm for interior design with our Tulsa community and to celebrate the collaborative effort behind this remarkable home. See more photos on our design portfolio page.

A special thank you goes out to our co-host, Shawn Peters with Chinowth & Cohen, and to our sponsors, Apex Title Services and Mabrey Bank.

 

Elevated Outdoor Furniture & Patio Inspiration

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outdoor living and outdoor furniture and interior design by Kirkendall Design in Tulsa, Oklahoma

As the temperatures rise and the Oklahoma sun begins to shine, it’s time to turn our attention to our outdoor living areas. Here at Kirkendall Design, we love creating outdoor spaces that are an extension of our client’s homes. Around this same time last year, we wrote a blog post about how spending time outdoors can work wonders for reducing stress, boosting creativity, and lifting spirits. This is precisely why we love to provide design services for outdoor spaces in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and beyond!

In one of our recent interior design projects, we had the pleasure of curating multiple outdoor living spaces for a client’s second home in Silverthorne, Colorado. Our client was after outdoor furniture that was more unique, comfortable and would last the test of time and weather. That’s where our exclusive partnerships in the furniture industry came into play.

‘Tis the Season for Giving: How Our Team Shares Their Time and Love

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Our team at K|D has been gearing up for the most wonderful time of the year! It’s not just about festive decorations (which we love!); it’s about spreading joy and giving back to our communities. In the spirit of Christmas, we want to share some heartwarming ways our staff gives their time and love during the holiday season.

We asked our team members how they contribute, whether financially or with their precious time, to make a difference in the lives of others. Their responses were inspiring, ranging from volunteering at local organizations in Tulsa to donating coats and gifts to families in need.

Here are some of our team’s favorite giving ideas:

  • Set up a giving tree at kids’ school to buy Christmas gifts for kids in need
  • Give to a borrower through KivaMake a loan, change a life
  • Partner and volunteer with John 3:16 Mission
  • Make gift sacks with food, socks, hats, gloves, hot hand warmers, and scarfs for the homeless community in Tulsa
  • Sponsor a foster child
  • Volunteer with Tulsa Dream Center
  • Give financially to help local families in need
  • Volunteering at a homeless shelter to serve hot meals
  • Coats for KidsNow taking donations!

Holiday Gift Guides

In addition to giving their time, our Kirkendall Design team also has some great last-minute gift ideas to share. Keep scrolling for thoughtful and unique gifts for your loved ones!

Gift Guide for Her

 

Gift Guide for Him

Gift Guide for Kids/Baby

Shop All Gift Guides Here

We hope these ideas inspire you to make the most of your holidays with loved ones and make a difference in your community this December. Merry Christmas from the K|D staff!

 

Last-Minute Hosting Essentials From Our Interior Design Team

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Thanksgiving is around the corner, and we’ve got your last-minute hosting needs covered! From stylish serving ware to practical appliances and more, our carefully chosen items will add ease and a touch of charm to your gathering. Elevate your Thanksgiving effortlessly with these luxury, curated essentials from our interior design team. Shop on LTK.

amazon hosting essentials by Kirkendall Design interior design

SHOP ON LTK

1. Unscented Tapers | 2. Gold Candlestick Holders | 3. Cotton Linen Napkins | 4. Cheese Board Deck | 5. Dried Pampas Grass | 6. Champagne Flutes | 7.  Acacia Wooden Tray | 8. Slow Cooker Liners | 9. Faux Wood Charger | 10. Triple Slow Cooker

Get Your Home Ready for Gatherings: Lighting Edition

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As the days grow shorter with the changing season, we want to talk about the crucial role that lighting can play within your home. Having the perfect lighting can completely revamp your space, giving it that cozy and inviting atmosphere that makes the approaching winter nights feel a whole lot brighter. Let’s consider three main types of lighting: statement, task, and aesthetic.

The 3 Main Types of Lighting

Statement Lighting

Statement lighting can make a bold and memorable impression in your home. These unique fixtures are more than just sources of illumination; they are works of art that can serve as conversation starters and focal points in your living spaces.

Telling Your Story Through Interior Design

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Bright and open living and dining room, luxury interior design by Kirkendall Design

If you’ve been a part of the Kirkendall Design community for any length of time, you will know that we firmly uphold the belief that great interior design should tell your unique story.

Our mission is to highlight those special moments within your home, designing it in a way that simplifies your life while creating spaces that are not only luxurious but also highly functional for you.

Luxury Interior Design with Purpose

We are passionate about knowing where you’ve been, what you’ve experienced, and what holds meaning to you. Whether it’s a piece of art you’ve collected or an antique with its own story, we aim to incorporate these cherished elements into the design. This way, your memories become an integral part of your home, and it’s more than just a magazine-worthy picture.

The Best of Both Worlds

Our Furniture & Styling service seamlessly combines your most precious and meaningful pieces with high end, luxury furnishings that complete the overall design of your home. Whether you’re looking to update a single room or transform your entire home, our team is committed to delivering exceptional results tailored to your style and preferences. We will take care of everything, from sourcing and procuring all the necessary furniture and decor to handling the installation. You can sit back and relax while we work our magic, resulting in a beautifully styled and livable space that you’ll love.

Our Furniture & Styling Service Includes:

  • Paint or wall covering selections
  • Carpet, tile, or other flooring options
  • Lighting selections
  • Hardware selections
  • Countertop selections
  • Space plans
  • Sourcing furniture + decor
  • Expert project management
  • Procurement of luxury furnishings + decor
  • Installation of furnishings + decor

We invite you to take the next step with us and explore how our Furniture & Styling interior design services in Tulsa, OK can help transform your space into a reflection of your unique story. Contact us today to schedule your free discovery call and take the next step toward a more luxurious and inviting living space.

Submit a design request to get started.

Celebrating 30 Years of Kirkendall Design

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Julia flips through interior design samples; reflects back on 30th anniversary of Kirkendall Design

We are excited and humbled to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Kirkendall Design!  

A recent interview with Julia captured some of the highlights over the years.

What does the 30th anniversary of K|D mean to you?
When I think about 30 years I feel like I’m in complete denial that it has been that long!

What initially sparked your interest in interior design?
Realizing that others could not visualize a space the way that I could, I wanted to help people make their house a home! I took for granted that they could see what was not before their eyes.

What inspired you to start Kirkendall Design?
The desire to create a beautiful space for my clients to come home to and gather with friends and family. 

What do you remember about your first year in business?
I remember the amount of details that I needed to communicate to my clients without overwhelming them!

Tell us about one of your favorite “firsts” at KD?
My first, really large design project was for a client I have done many design projects with.  She believed in me and understood my vision of creating a design that was all about their family and who they were, not who I was in my own style. That was amazing!

Did you always think you would run your own business?
I have always had an entrepreneurial mindset and spirit, so I’m not surprised to own my business. 

As you reflect on the team you’ve had over the past 30 years, what comes to mind?
Wow, well I think of how many high school and college students that have worked for me over the years and where they are today.  But most of all the loyalty and dedication I have had from my staff, that is what has made K|D a team!

What are some significant challenges you have faced and overcame?
The creation of HGTV and the magic that happens in the 30 minute show has been a huge learning curve for my clients. Don’t we all want our project to be done in 30 minutes and on budget! 

What have been the highlights over the last 30 years?
Going to the different markets throughout the country and meeting some of the most amazing people. 

What are your fondest memories?
All the Christmas decorating we did as a team.  Surprisingly, it was also one of the most difficult things we did.

What has driven K|D’s success?
I believe it’s the support of the team, and the culture we have together. It helps to make us strong and pushes each other to a higher standard.

What’s been most surprising about the journey so far?
I still love what I do and I am excited to have new ways to grow K|D through The Studio at K|D. We are adding to the experience with so many new ways to serve and inspire our clients, it’s an exciting time.  

What is one piece of advice you would give yourself 30 years ago?
Pace yourself… this is going to be a long run!   

What do you see for the future of K|D?
I see an opportunity for us to create engaging experiences through K|D and The Studio at K|D!

How does it feel to be launching a new business while celebrating the 30th anniversary of K|D?
It feels like the perfect time to start something new and fresh that will serve and inspire our clients and the community. All while K|D continues to grow and thrive as a business.

Living room design by Kirkendall Design, interior design firm in Tulsa, OK

Comments from the K|D Team

the kirkendall design team

“When I started, my desk was in Julia’s home office. It was so exciting to move to our first warehouse and really exciting to move to the new location at The Studio at K|D. It is amazing to watch Julia’s visions turn into a reality.  With that being said, I do have to reign her in every so often. But, I am thankful for the opportunity to be a part of it all!”
– Lora, Business Manager

“Much of who I am today is directly related to growing up in an environment, like K|D, that gave positive feedback and encouragement to strive to become a leader and a better person. I am honored to be lucky enough to call K|D my family.”
– Max, Construction Supervisor

“Julia has a knack for creating meaningful experiences, not only for her clients but also for her employees. Over the years, she put together numerous celebrations, including birthdays, weddings, the arrival of little ones, holidays and countless other milestones. Always so much fun!”
– Heather, Former Marketing Director

The true magic of our business lies within our amazing team. Over the years, the K|D team has been the driving force behind our success. As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, it’s not only about the work; family comes first and our team has become like family.

Exterior Stone Refresh Q & A

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Exterior stone refresh using limewash, by Kirkendall Design

When considering a new home or updating the exterior of your home, many clients are not happy with and struggle with the color of their stone. We recently shared how we helped our client in Tulsa improve their home’s curb appeal with an exterior stone limewash treatment. If you missed it, be sure to check it out here.

We partnered with Beeler Painting – a local and trusted Tulsa company to execute the limewash. To gain a painter’s perspective on this exterior stone refresh, we consulted Austin Beeler from Beeler Painting.

Exterior Stone Refresh Q & A With Beeler Painting

before and after of dramatic exterior stone refresh using limewash

KD: Any home project can seem daunting when doing it alone. Even with the assistance of contractors, homeowners can feel overwhelmed by the countless design and color selections. From a painter’s perspective, why is it important to work with an interior designer when choosing to change your exterior brick or stone?

Beeler Painting: A professional, experienced interior designer can navigate the challenge of selecting the correct color and technique. They are also helpful in working as a partner to help instill additional trust in the customer as we go through the process.

KD: Over time, due to sun and rain exposure, exterior stone can take on unflattering color palettes. Similar to how we all age and change (no matter how much we fight it!), exterior stone will change colors. Is this a challenge that your company has seen a lot of homeowners in the Tulsa area facing?

Beeler Painting: Due to most of Tulsa’s Stonework being Sand Stone and Fieldstone, I believe many homes could be transformed from limewash, it can drastically change the overall appearance of their home.

KD: Many homeowners may choose to pursue costly plans to replace their stone or repaint the entire exterior. How does this particular paint/limewash process address exterior discoloration?

Beeler Painting: Limewash offers a relatively low cost solution to alter the color of stone, while maintaining a natural stone look. Paint is another option but many people prefer the look of natural stone.

Watch the Exterior Stone Refresh Reel on our Instagram!


We take immense pride in the opportunity to solve problems like these and love to partner with local and skilled subcontractors, like Beeler Painting. If you’re facing a similar issue with your exterior stone, or need help with improving your home’s curb appeal – don’t hesitate to reach out.

Submit a design request, and let us take the guesswork out of your curb appeal project.

Exterior Stone Refresh

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Beautiful stone exterior after limewash treatment by Kirkendall Design.

Many homeowners choose natural stone as a way to add timeless beauty, durability, and character to their home’s exterior. However, as the stone changes over time it can become an unappealing color and detract from your home’s curb appeal.

Due to most of Tulsa’s stonework being Sand Stone and Fieldstone, many homeowners struggle with stone they are not happy with. We recently had the opportunity to help a client in Tulsa improve their home’s curb appeal and overcome this issue with an exterior stone limewash refresh!

The Problem – Why Exterior Stone Changes

Similar to how we all age and change (no matter how much we fight it!), exterior stone also changes colors and loses its charm. Over time, as mineral deposits work their way to the surface due to sun and rain exposure, rocks can take on unflattering color palettes.

Our client’s exterior was the perfect example of a weathered and discolored stone that needed to be refreshed. Initially, our client had intended to pursue a costly plan to replace their stone and repaint the entire exterior.

However during the initial consult, we discovered a limewash treatment would be a more cost-effective plan for addressing the issue and improving our client’s curb appeal.

Exterior Before –

Exterior of a beautiful home before limewash treatment. By Kirkendall Design.

Exterior of a beautiful home before limewash treatment. By Kirkendall Design.

Exterior of a beautiful home before limewash treatment. By Kirkendall Design.

The Solution – How To Refresh Your Exterior Stone

We wanted to see the natural variations of color in the stone, this is why we chose a limewash treatment. Limewash, when paired with the proper application technique, can completely transform the appearance of the stone at a fraction of the cost and still maintain the natural beauty.

We partnered with Beeler Painting – a local and trusted Tulsa company to execute the limewash. After several swatches and meticulous color mixing, we were able to find the perfect shade and develop a process to replicate on our client’s entire exterior. Our client not only loved the end result, but it saved them money and time!

before and after of dramatic exterior stone refresh using limewash

Exterior After –

exterior stone refreshed with limewash treatment

exterior stone refresh, limewash by Kirkendall Design

 

When limewash is not the best solution, paint is often a great option to refresh your home’s exterior. One of our favorite curb appeal projects was a remarkable transformation where we redesigned the exterior architecture and painted the brick on our client’s home. Such a simple, yet striking upgrade!

We take immense pride in the opportunity to solve problems like these and help clients tackle big home projects! If you’re facing a similar issue with your exterior stone, or need help with improving your home’s curb appeal – don’t hesitate to reach out.

Submit a design request, and let us take the guesswork out of your curb appeal project.

Read Pt. 2 of this Exterior Stone Refresh project here.