Posts

Designing for Light, Humidity, and Salt Air-Without Sacrificing Beauty

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There is a certain romance to living near the coast. Soft light, layered textures, effortless connection between indoors and outdoors to name a few. Behind that beauty lies a very real design challenge: creating homes that can withstand the (sometimes brutal) realities of humidity and salt air without compromising  on sophistication . The truth is, designing in Charleston requires more than a good eye. It requires intention, restraint, and a knowledge of how materials perform over time. True luxury isn’t just how a space looks on installation day-it’s how it lives. Embracing Natural Light. Intentionally. Coastal homes are defined by their light, but without a thoughtful design, that light can quickly become harsh and unforgiving. We love to use layered window treatments to ensure we aren’t blocking light, but we are embracing it. A thin layer (think: linen curtains) and a light blocking layer (like a shade) allow you to control the light throughout the day and night. Finishes ...

5 Things I’m Loving Right Now: Low Effort Spring Layers for your Home

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I don’t know about you, but in the Spring I’m all about refreshing. Interior and exterior refreshes get me excited for summertime, when it feels like living is simpler. Here are five things I’m loving as I refresh my spaces with warmer temperatures, and easier days ahead in mind. This perfect throw I received this blanket as a gift. It’s a great woven texture, light weight , and very soft! I’ve been reaching for this more than my more expensive blanket, and this is a great price point! This sculptural vase I find myself reaching for my green flower vase more than any other. I keep looking at this thinking , if you put some fresh florals in here, this would make the best Mother’s Day gift! The vase is so pretty she could reuse it, or use it to decorate her home. That’s a win/win in my book! This coffee table book This coffee table book looks so fun! I absolutely love to travel and learn about new places, so this book offering information on every country in the world (! ) complete...

The Impact of Interior Design on Wellness

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  A well thought out design will improve the quality of life of the people living in the space.   If we aren’t improving your life, then why are we even redesigning it, right?  There are several ways we can use design to improve the logistics of your daily life and your overall wellbeing . Good design should always promote the health and wellness of the occupants of the home.   This can take the form of adequate storage so you aren’t constantly overstimulated by the “stuff” that accumulates in a home, or by changing the flow of your space so that it makes it easier to get from space to space .   Space planning is critical to making sure you have room to walk between cabinets , or have enough space to exit a bathtub safely.   It could mean changing the colors from stark white to a warmer color to improve the feel of the space. When thinking about physical wellbeing , considerations like safety and accessibility need to be taken into account. ...

Studio Spartina Studio Reveal

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The Studio Spartina Design Studio has been a labor of love.  My vision for this space was to have a beautiful place for me to design, and to have a place to bring clients in for presentations where I can show them fixtures and finishes in real life. We’ve got spaces for everything, and plenty of wall space to see how cohesive all of the Design elements will look together. Having a studio to bring clients into, as well as quiet place for me to create is a dream come true. The space embodies my personal design style. It feels cozy and comfortable, and is very functional. When you come into the studio for a presentation, you’ll see samples of many of the finishes I’m showing you for your home.  And you can rest assured that if I have anything to do with it, you won’t leave hungry! It was a joy to have Melissa Griffin Photography work her magic in the studio. Come on in, look around, and stay awhile!  You are always welcome here! Call us at 8432126859 . Vi...

High Point Market Recap

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You may have heard D esigner talking and posting about going to High Point Market last month. Twice each year, designer from around the globe descend upon the furniture capital of the world, High Point, North Carolina. What do designers do at High Point, and why should you hope your designer was in attendance? Connection From impromptu conversations with fellow designers to in-depth discussions with brand representatives, partnership is everywhere at Market! These connections often result in creative solutions and future partnerships. Education With expert-led panels, showroom tours, and hands-on experiences, I waked away with a deeper understanding of materials, design technology, and best practice within the industry today. Opportunities to grow and learn are truly invaluable and will help me to serve my clients more effectively. Inspiration For most designers, our favorite part is walking through showrooms. Getting to spot the latest trends before they hit mainstream is alwa...