Last-Minute Hosting Essentials From Our Interior Design Team
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.
Get Your Home Ready for Gatherings: Lighting Edition
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.
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 service 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.
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
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 adesign request, and let us take the guesswork out of your curb appeal project.
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 –
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!
Exterior After –
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.
Cultivate a fuller, more beautiful life at The Studio at K|D. Opening August 2023!
Having issues viewing the video? Click here to watch on YouTube.
THE ‘WHY’ BEHIND THE STUDIO AT K|D
We have had the privilege to work in some of the most amazing homes over the last three decades. We have fostered deep connections with numerous families and individuals, embarking on a shared journey to empower people with the art of embracing their homes to the fullest. This is why we decided to start The Studio at K|D!
The Studio at K|D is a testament to Julia’s unwavering passion for innovation and her steadfast commitment to enhancing the lives of both loyal clients and the vibrant Tulsa community.
This new venture – sitting on five acres and conveniently located in greater Tulsa – gives us the opportunity to share with others the Kirkendall Design experience. The Studio at K|D will offer a broad range of interactive workshops and nature-inspired experiences, while also imparting invaluable knowledge on living life to its utmost potential.
THE STUDIO AT K|D OFFERINGS
Lifestyle Workshops Develop new skills, cultivate relationships and learn to live more beautifully.
Signature Events Host meaningful celebrations and signature events at our unique, intimate venue.
Photographer Memberships Receive exclusive access to The Studio, offered to a limited group of photographers.
Flower Farm Visit and shop our boutique, garden-inspired grounds in the heart of the city.
Artisan Gallery Experience curated artisan installations from local artists on a rotating basis.
The Studio represents the culmination of our journey, as we bring our expertise full circle. We are on a mission to inspire and empower others to cultivate fuller, more beautiful lives. We cannot wait to host all of you here soon!
The Studio at K|D officially opens August 2023. Be the first to hear about the grand opening and other upcoming events by subscribing to our newsletter below!
Over the past 30 years, I have had the privilege to develop, design, and style many outdoor living spaces. It is often a follow-up request from clients after we have transformed the space in the interiors to continue the same “feel” on the exterior.
I always aim to create outdoor living spaces that are an extension of our clients’ homes. By incorporating elements of a client’s interior style, my team can create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living spaces that feel cohesive and inviting.
Personally, I draw inspiration for life, love, and design from the outdoors. Nature has always given me a sense of peace and clarity. Whether it’s the rustling of leaves in the wind or the sound of water flowing in a nearby stream, nature has a way of calming our senses and inspiring creativity.
Studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress, boost creativity, and improve mood. Having a functional and beautiful outdoor living space can have a profound impact on your overall well being, which is why I love designing outdoor living spaces for clients.
Outdoor Living Essentials
The best outdoor living spaces have a certain magic to them. They have a way of drawing you in and inviting you to stay awhile. What is it that makes these spaces so special? It’s those “most loved spots” that everyone wants to be in. When it comes to creating the perfect outdoor living space, there are a few essential elements that every design should include.
Take a Seat, Stay Awhile
Comfortable seating is a must for any outdoor living space. Whether you opt for a cozy loveseat or a collection of comfortable chairs, make sure your seating is both comfortable and durable. Consider incorporating a porch swing or chaise lounge into your outdoor living space to create a peaceful spot for reading, napping, or just soaking up the sun. You can add some color and texture to your seating area by incorporating outdoor throw pillows and blankets.
Naturally Chic
The beauty of outdoor living is that you are surrounded by nature. Make the most of this natural setting by incorporating plants, rocks, and water features into your design. You can create a natural garden oasis with a variety of plants, trees, and shrubs, or add a water feature like a pond, fountain, or waterfall for a soothing sound.
Sky’s The Limit
An unobstructed view of the sky can be a breathtaking addition to any outdoor living space. Consider incorporating a pergola or other outdoor structure that provides some shade while still allowing you to enjoy the view above.
Gather ‘Round
Whether you are hosting a family barbecue or enjoying a cozy evening by the fire, having a designated gathering space is essential for any outdoor living area. Consider incorporating a dining table, bar, or fire pit into your design to create a focal point for socializing and entertaining.
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Looking to transform your outdoor living space into a beautiful and functional extension of your home? We would love to help. Submit a design request today to get started on creating the outdoor living area of your dreams.
Great design tells the story of the people who live in that home. From the front door all the way to the more utilitarian spaces of the home, your home should reflect who you are and how you want your home to feel. This month, we are talking about bathroom styles.
As designers we are constantly asking ourselves, how can wetell the storyof your life through our design? We have recognized bathroom designs that stand the test of time. Let’s take a look at several of our favorite bathroom styles that do just that. I’d love to know…which would you choose?
Fresh and Timeless
Bathroom styles that are fresh and timeless are all about choosing a combination of materials that feel both new and classic. You want your new bath to look new now–who could blame you? Yet, you also want it to look new in five, ten, even 15 years! In most cases we accomplish this by keeping the color palette neutral and choosing simple, ageless fixtures and patterns.
Your tile selection is a great place to add interest to your design. (We talked bathroom tile trends here last year.) You can keep it fairly neutral, so it doesn’t look dated anytime soon. But remember, if you love it and it reflects who you are–chances are you’ll always love it!
Mixing your finishes is another way to accomplish the fresh and timeless look. If you’ve chosen chrome fixtures, consider a black or wood mirror. Not only will it add visual interest to an otherwise calm space, but it helps avoid dating your design. Win, win!
Warm and Textural
In the room where one of your main focuses is to see how you look and will present yourself to the world, you should choose a palette that will aid in enhancing your beauty regimine. Warm and textural bathroom styles will help you look and feel your best while getting ready.
You can create warm palette bathroom styles by using stained or painted wood–it doesn’t really matter as long as you choose saturated tones. Choosing marble or quartzite can also make a big impact.
Another great way to bring in warmth is with wallpaper. We’ve sourced everything from earthy botanical prints to textured leather wallpapers (image above). Any way to bring in those warmer design elements will help create a cozy and texture-filled bathroom style. Not only will your room look great, but you will, too!
Relaxed and Refined
When a client is drawn to relaxed and refined bathroom styles, we hone in on creating the most serene setting possible. This means that simplicity, luxury and rejuvenation are at the top of our list when choosing each design element.
When creating a spa-like bathroom style, focus on choosing calming and fresh colors, fixtures, and surfaces. Each one should complement the other in a way that primes the room for a peaceful experience.
Moody Neutrals
Black is the new neutral. And, boy do I love dark and moody bathroom styles, or any room for that matter. I often have to talk clients into making this daring move. I’ve even bet a client I would pay to repaint it if she didn’t like the end result. However, I’ve never had an unhappy customer when all was said and done.
Truthfully, it doesn’t even have to be black. We recently used a coffee bean colored wallpaper (above) that still gives that dark, moody feel without being stark black.
Afraid to go dark? There are so many ways to introduce depth of color without using paint. Maybe it’s a white quartzite with an inky vein running through it. Or, a dark hide wrapped mirror for a little burst of drama.
Pops of Color
Throughout the years, we’ve done many colorful bathroom styles. There’s no better way to tell the story of who occupies a space than with bold color choices and pattern play.
In a recent new construction home project, we designed this perfectly pink bath intended for the owners’ granddaughters. From the floral wallpaper, to the patterned floor tile and pink accessories, this room screams little girls.
If you want to keep the focus on the wallpaper, use a wall to wall mirror instead of a framed version. As you can see, we chose pink tile for the shower/tub wall and let the tile texture and pattern take center stage.
There is an art to mixing color, patterns, and textures in bathroom styles. When you do it well, (or with the help of a designer!) it creates a fun and fresh look that maximizes your unique story and style.
Which of these bathroom styles is your favorite – classic and understated or the daring and bold designs? Tell us in the comments! If you are planning a bathroom refresh or remodel, let us bring your design to life. Submit a design request to get the process started.
The holidays are over and the decorations are all put away (or will be soon!) and your house feels a little blah, right? Understandable. January is always a month we want to give our interiors a little refresh. So, let’s talk about my favorite way to do this with accessories. I’m willing to bet you already have quite a few of these.
1) Conversational Pieces
The best accessories are the ones that define your own personal style and tell the story of you and your family. Using decorative pieces that have been passed down through a family for generations can add a unique and personal touch to a space. These items often have a rich history and sentimental value, which can make them great conversation starters when people see them displayed in a home.
Pro tip: Don’t worry if you don’t have any family heirlooms. Explore estate sales and flea markets for unique conversational pieces that have interesting histories or uses. As a rule of thumb, if you come across an item that you are drawn to, consider it a keeper.
2) Vase or Bowl
Vases can be filled with fresh flowers to add a pop of color and bring life to a space, or they can be left empty as a statement piece. Bowls can be used to hold fruit, serve as a catchall for keys and other small items, or simply be displayed as a decorative element. Mix and match different sizes, shapes, and materials for a cohesive yet eclectic look. Grouping vases and bowls together can also make for a visually interesting display. When decorating with vases and bowls, consider the style of the room and choose pieces that complement the overall aesthetic.
3) Small Art
Perhaps you have an artist in your family (lucky you!) but if not a great place to find art and make it memorable is to pick up pieces along your travels. It doesn’t even have to be a large piece. Get in the habit of picking up little 8x10s when you travel. They can be unframed prints or canvases and they make great little pieces to prop up in bookshelves to add texture and color.
4) Table Top Pieces
Every family has that one dish that is always used when a certain recipe is served. Maybe it’s the family turkey platter. Why not make it a display piece? Sometimes that platter can sit up in your kitchen and become an accessory rather than be stored in a cabinet only to be used once a year. Rethinking these pieces as accessories gives them a whole new purpose.
5) Cookie Jar
Special treats are naturally going to elicit special memories. My aunt has a large commercial sized mayonnaise jar that she always stores her homemade cookies and treats in. It’s nothing special, yet it’s still proudly displayed in her beautiful kitchen. These are things that are more sentimental. You can buy accessories anywhere, but using things that mean something to you makes your house a home.
6) Books
With more and more people switching to Kindles and reading on their iPads, book purchases have been on the decline. As a result, we’ve been seeing fewer books in people’s homes. But I’ve noticed a trend of people starting to buy books again, and I’m really happy about it. I think having actual books, even cookbooks, can add such a personal touch to a home. We often put a couple of really pretty cookbooks on the kitchen shelf when we’re styling a space. It fills it up nicely, adds some color, and gives a sense of the homeowners’ interests or travels.
7) Handmade Items
Handmade items often have a special meaning or story behind them and make a meaningful addition to your home. I have many beloved items in my home – one of them being a pig-shaped cutting board that my husband made as Christmas gifts for us and our siblings when we were newly married. Most of our siblings still display them in their kitchens. Recently, I visited a client’s home and saw that she had a similar pig-shaped cutting board. She told me that it was her most treasured item in her kitchen because it was so unique and well-loved. By seeking out local artisans, you can find one-of-a-kind pieces and support the local community. There are many ways to find great handmade home accessories. By seeking out local artisans, you can find one-of-a-kind pieces and support the local community. Local markets and art crawls are a great place to start, as you can often meet the makers in person and learn about their process and techniques. Online marketplaces and social media platforms, like Etsy and Instagram, are also excellent sources for finding handmade items.
8) Picture Frames
Picture frames are a great and personal accessory! I don’t know about you but I sometimes get tired of seeing the same frame and image sitting there. So, I have a box filled with framed pictures and I rotate them with each season or sometimes each holiday. It’s fun because my family enjoys them more that way, too. Even my two-year old granddaughter recognized her uncle from his senior picture–how fun is that? Printing pictures anymore is a novelty, so don’t forget to print your pictures and display those memories.
9) Blanket/Throw
A few months ago we were styling a client’s whiskey room and it was just missing something. Everything was dark, with clean, modern lines and so we added a soft throw over a leather chair and that was it! The texture and softness was exactly what the room needed to pop. We all use blankets so why not make them part of your decor?
10) Family Clock
This may be showing the old-fashioned Julia, but for years (during our grandparents’ generation) clocks were frequently given as gifts–perhaps for a wedding, anniversary or retirement. Sometimes they were mantle clocks or brass clocks under a glass cachet or even pocket watches. When I can find a clock in a client’s home I always use it. It’s just a great reminder of how precious time truly is.
Being an interior designer means you have to have excellent detective skills. Why? As designers, our job is to understand human behavior and figure out how people want to live; Then we create designs for that lifestyle. And, let me tell you, previous living patterns are constantly being rerouted to center around new environments within the home. Case in point: the home office.
For a long time, the communications center was the big trend. You walk in the door, drop your things down, and there’s a built-in desk with the computer and family calendar right in the kitchen. We aren’t seeing that as much now. People want a dedicated office space where you can actually WORK–imagine that! So, let’s take a look at what this space needs to function at its best…
A Multi-Purpose Space
The past decade or more has been defined by open concept living. But, now people are finding they need little spaces within the home to…well, get away from everyone! Whether it’s a place to pay bills, take a phone call, or work on homework, people need quiet workspaces. Sorry, Dad, the home office is now the family office. People simply don’t want to give up that much square footage in their house for a separate room for each of these tasks so you really need a space where all of these activities can happen. Essentially, a landing spot for working. One of my favorite ways to offer the most flexibility within the room is to opt for a table as a workstation rather than a traditional desk. Even better if you can either float the table in the room or have it coming out from one wall so you can get chairs on more than one side. This opens up multiple workstations so, for example, you can be working on your laptop while your child is doing homework across from you. This typically allows for a larger work surface–perfect for school crafts or assembling holiday cards!
Well Equipped
In order for a home office to function well in today’s day and age you need to make sure you have the right equipment. At the top of that equipment list is…you guessed it, the Internet! Connectivity is key. If your router isn’t located in this room and you are not able to get a strong signal, then you simply add a booster. I love Google Boosters and am often surprised how many people don’t know about them–you don’t need an AV guy, just add a booster and you’re set! When the weather is nice the last thing I want to do is be stuck inside my home office. I’ll often take my laptop to the patio, so I added a booster out there–and voila! Working from home is almost like being on vacation….well, almost.
Another must-have item is the wireless printer. If you don’t have one of these already, the next printer you buy should be wireless. It can be easily hidden away in a cabinet or closet and accessed only when you need it. This saves you from unsightly cords and yet another thing on your desk to dust and keep clean.
Work, But Make It Pretty
Office spaces tend to be smaller spaces so, like a powder room, we see it as a chance to do something a little bit more impactful and daring. Perhaps you want to use a color in this room or wallpaper. You don’t have to commit to painting or wallpapering the entire room, believe it or not accent walls are making a comeback—hello, ‘90s!
If you are painting woodwork, be careful to select a color you are NOT using in the kitchen otherwise you will feel like you’re still in the kitchen! Either paint cabinetry and trim the wall color or a new accent color to give this room its own signature.
Mix It Up
It’s perfectly OK to wear a shirt from Target and carry a Gucci bag. We are all about that at Kirkendall Design! So, why not do the same in your home? Mixing and matching styles and eras helps create fresh interiors that celebrate the past, present and future of design. Maybe you love your grandmother’s vintage dining table–use that as your desk! Top it with a lamp from Target and spend money on your rug and fabric to upholster a pair of chairs for either side of the work table. Try to reimagine spaces so they can incorporate things that have meaning to you and that will make the space uniquely yours.
Always look for unexpected material combinations that are intentionally collected. In other words, don’t just go buy the office suite of furniture from Mathis Brothers! When we design for longevity and create spaces that are ambiguous in era they stand the test of time so they may be passed down for generations to come.
Find Your Inspiration
People are pushing back against hustle culture, and rightfully so. As a result, rest and wellness is at the center of each design decision I make. Creating common spaces and peaceful vignettes within the home of our clients helps us tell the story of where people have been and where they are going.
All this gives us a sense of purpose and serves as a huge source of encouragement–especially important in a room where we may be doing something rather uninspiring to begin with (ahem, paying bills). I always try to incorporate a reminder of the past, present and future–this could be an object, a photograph, or even a piece of furniture. It causes us to remember where we are from and who got us here, not to mention who you are working for and where you are going. What could be more motivating than that?
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