Lindsey's Home Tour | Baby Girl's Nursery

I don’t think there will ever be a space closer to my heart, and I am so excited to share with you all the long awaited details of baby girl’s nursery! It’s already become one of my favorite spaces to kick my feet up, while we patiently (anxiously) await baby’s arrival. What makes this space even more special - in the early years it was my home office. There were original existing hardwoods and built-in’s along the large window wall. We decided to demo the built-in’s to create more space for furniture and to carpet over the existing hardwoods. I always say you’re either a carpet or rug family, and in the children’s spaces we prefer carpet for a cozier feel.

As soon as we found out baby is a girl - the search was on for the perfect wallpaper! I knew I wanted something feminine and soft, but not an overwhelmingly pink pattern. I ultimately opted for the warm feel of this Summer Harvest Wallpaper. Its name also felt right, with a nod to baby girl’s roots (and namesakes) of strong midwest farm women.

Another easy decision was the Olio glider. We have ordered a few for clients who absolutely love them. I knew from feedback friends have given, that a power recliner was the way to go. It also has USB ports built-right in for phone charging during late night feedings.

We went back and forth a bit between a true changing table or adding a changing top to a dresser. Honestly, lead times and availability were the deciding factor here. I think we’ll be happy with the easy “grab and go” of a true changing table. I love how the white and cane details of this Serena & Lily table compliment the warmth of the wallpaper - without feeling too feminine. I added a few acrylic and brass storage containers to mix in a touch of modern. Details of woven and cane are seen through out the nursery.

A sweet spool book shelf is home to some of our favorite books and toys we can’t wait for baby girl to enjoy. One of my favorite items is the Gray Malin Central Park print which captures a special place in my heart that I can not wait to share with baby girl one day. Along with a love for travel, we hope she get’s a love for dogs too - which will be hard for her to avoid with the most love-able big brother Berkley anxiously awaiting her arrival! He already settles himself right into this room, but we’ll see if that changes in a few weeks once he realizes it’s not only his favorite spot to be.

I wanted simple lines when it came to the crib, and nothing too fussy or feminine. I love the soft feel of this crib and also opted for it as a gender neutral piece that could stay with us for years. A few layered patterns and a cozy ottoman bring color and texture that compliments the wallpaper we chose. I also already love these adorable woven storage boxes for books, toys and extra blankets.

Of course I had so much fun organizing baby girl’s closet, but I also really wanted organization that would last. I knew this system had to work with us and work for us. I planned for there to be enough space for a hamper to be stored right in the closet and knew a majority of the storage space would be for hanging. I felt that was the most flexible way for this closet to grow with baby. We were also able to get four great size drawers and plenty of open shelving. I went with non-slip hangers from The Container Store. I also ordered a few pink photo boxes for keepsakes. So far - these boxes have already come in handy. They are great for storing ultrasound print outs, maternity photos, and special gifted items - like vintage books - that we don’t necessarily want in baby’s reach, but are so excited to share with her.

The unexpected theme of this nursery ended up being “bunnies & bows” - and while this wasn’t intentional, I think it fits the space and our baby girl just right. I am so blessed to share this space with my family and I can not wait for all the snuggles to come.

Project Reveal | Bodyworks Physical Therapy

We are so excited to be sharing yet another super fun and creative commercial space that we were able to be apart of. Bodyworks Physical Therapy expanded into a new Fargo location. Through the design process we were able to incorporate their brand into the fixtures, furnishings and details within the space.

One of the main focal points of this project included the front lobby area. It was important that this space be both inviting and functional for everyday operations. When it came to the furnishings and decor, we utilized the Bodywork’s logo colors through out the space. This gave the space a fun, fresh and organic feel.

When it came to furnishings and artwork, we stayed true to the Bodyworks brand. We took a lot of inspiration from nature to create a calming atmosphere for patients. Aiming for details - we incorporated the pattern from the front desk pendants into the lobby seating giving the space a modern feel. Mixed metals and a variety of natural woods can be found in each space.

Bodyworks serves a variety of clientele and each were considered during the planning and design phase for each space. Through lots of collaboration this created a truly on brand, beautiful space for the entire Bodyworks team and the patients they serve to enjoy day in and out.

To learn more about Body Works Physical Therapy & the services they offer head to their website bodyworksfargo.com.

Project Reveal | Ellery Milan Beauty

A majority of our design work is in residential new builds, remodels and decorating - but we do welcome the change of pace of a few commercial spaces. When Ellery Lystad, of Ellery Milan Beauty approached us to help with the design work of her new facial spa in Fargo, ND we could not wait to dive into the world of glamour and beauty that she creates for her clientele.

Ellery already had a beautiful brand created, so our job was to help her bring that into her space. Overall, the goal was to create a space that women felt their best in. We kept the space light, bright and minimal. Durability was also a huge factor in selections. We worked together to showcase the products that Ellery Milan beauty offers in an elegant way & created a custom build cabinet with a touch of traditional charm. The stools at the product counter are not only beautiful but easy to wipe down and comfortable for clientele.

The lighting throughout the spa adds the perfect touch of glam. The bubble chandelier grounds the retail space, white the wall sconces bring in the perfect layered lighting. The furnishings in the space all tie in so beautifully together with the acrylic side table and velvet guest chair.

It’s hard to pick a favorite space at Ellery Milan Beauty, but if we really must it would be the perfectly pretty bathroom. With an arched goal mirror, beveled subway tile & beautifully textured wallpaper the space is the definition of understated elegance.

When it came to the design of the treatment rooms, it was a must that they were functional for the aestheticians and a calming space for the clients that Ellery & her team serves. We brought in touches of brass through out the space and kept the furnishings simple yet elegant.

Working with Ellery to create such a beautiful space for women to feel and look their best was really a fun change of pace. The results could not have turned out more stunning. To learn more about Ellery Milan & the services they offer head to their website ElleryMilan.com or check out their instagram for some amazing beauty tips & tricks we live by!

Project Reveal | Woodcrest Remodel

When these clients came to me it didn’t take long to realize how much they love their home. They cherished the memories that it had allowed them to create. Their home was - and still is their “happy place.” This absolutely made me so excited to help guide them through their remodel. I truly believe that no matter the paint color on the walls or the finishes on the fixtures, the people make a home.

Needless to say the existing fixtures and paint had served their purpose for a few decades, and it was time to give this family a fresh new look. We had so much fun taking this home from outdated to updated, fresh and ready for fun for years to come.

The home had existing wood beams, and that really set the stage for this kitchen. With the tall ceilings we knew there was endless potential to create an open kitchen. One of the major additions we made to the space was adding a hood to the focal paint of the space. We also relocated the microwave, adding it to the island. The countertops we selected are a white quartz, and the existing red sink was replaced with a fresh white farm house sink from Kohler. The kitchen cabinet paint color is Benjamin Moore Stonington Grey.

In order to really take advantage of the tall ceilings, we decided to wrap the kitchen cabinetry with crown and carry the subway tile to the top of the ceiling. We worked hand-in-hand with Wendt Custom Cabintery to update the kitchen cabinetry as well as built-in’s to the lower level living area.

We actually ended up removing an entire bedroom in the lower level of this home, to create an open entertainment area. The paint color we chose for the built in’s is Sherwin Williams Pewter Green. We accented the space with brass hardware and kept the stained accents cohesive through out.

This project was a labor of love and collaboration. It look each member of the team from the contractor, to the cabinetry builders to make this project the success it became. We could not be more happy with the end result.

Project Reveal | Blackmore Flats Clubhouse

We could not be more excited to share with you the reveal of our Blackmore Flats Clubhouse. It’s a welcome and exciting change of pace when the perfect commercial design project comes our way. When the vice president of Lux Communities first reached out to us to lead the design direction of this space, we knew we wanted to make it fun. A fun design process, as well as fun space for the residents to enjoy.

Lucky for us, going bold with the finishes wasn’t outside of Lux Communities comfort zone. We balanced the bold cabinetry with fresh white brick-look wall tiles as well as natural wood floating shelves sourced from local Dakota Timber. You’ll see the “Stark” wood finish that Dakota Timber supplies used through out the clubhouse. We also went with a mixed metals approach to this space, combining polished nickel, antique brass and matte black fixtures.

The modern light fixture that anchors the custom pool table perfectly is from Hudson Valley Lighting Mitzi line. When selecting the fabrics and finishes in this space, we wanted to give a nod to midcentury modern tones but keeping in mind a “nordic” feel for the lines and texture. We went with a deep green finish to top the pool table which pops perfectly against the mostly white walls.

With every project it’s important for us to support other local business owners in any way that we can. Lux Communities gave us the go-ahead to have a handful of artwork commissioned by local artist Kate Baldock and we could not be more thrilled with the outcome of Kate’s work.

We absolutely love how the natural light shines into this community area, which is adjacent to the community patio. We sourced this sleek white game table from CB2 and these low maintenance but durable leather wrapped chairs from West Elm. We chose the chandelier from Hudson Valley Lighting’s Mitzi collection to anchor the space. We know this will be the perfect spot for the residents of Blackmore Flats to gather around, play card games or just catch up.

One of the very first details we presented to the team at Lux Communities was the tile to carpet flooring transition. We chose the mixed grey hex tiles for the kitchen area, and instead of a traditional transition we decided to allow the hex shape to carry into the wood planks and carpet tiles. With any community gathering space it’s important to have several different seating options available. We broke up the lounge area with high top tables, adding texture in the finishes and mixing the wood tones.

Our favorite spot in the clubhouse has to be the main lobby area. We selected a pair of matching midcentury modern sofas from Article and created the most welcoming little coffee bar. We carried through the brass modern details in this space as well with the most perfect chandelier also from Hudson Valley Lighting Mitzi collection.

Remember how we said the team at Lux Communities trusted us to go bold with the finishes? The gorgeous blue tiles in the bathrooms could not be more perfect paired with this wallpaper from Hygge and West. We also looked to Dakota Timber to create the perfect minimalistic approach to the floating vanities. The mirror and lighting fixtures are from Rejuvenation.

The residents of Blackmore Flats also enjoy this amazing exercise room, we offered words of encouragement with the custom mural and kept the pattern detail moving through out the space in the custom flooring detail.

We couldn’t have envisioned a more trusting team working with Lux Communities on the Blackmore Flat’s Clubhouse. Teamwork makes the dream work and that rings true in the results of this beautiful space. To read more about the Blackmore Flats Clubhouse you can read about it here in Midwest Nest.

Lindsey Grace Interiors | How It Works

When choosing the interior designer that’s right for you, it’s important for you to get to know their process. Here, at Lindsey Grace Interiors we spend a good amount of time making sure our clients know the process ahead of them, the services we offer, and making sure it’s the perfect fit for everyone involved.

The first step of every process is first filling out the “work with us” form found on our website. Whether you’re ready to kick-off your project, have a few questions about our services, or just want to get to know a bit more of what we are about, filling out this form is the best way to get in contact with us.

Once you fill out the “work with us” form, we’ll reach out to schedule a 15-Min Discovery Call. This is where we share more about our process, learn more about your project, as well as discuss budget, timeline, and expectations. We’ll discuss the package we recommend best to meet your project goals.

When the contract is signed, and the deposit is made- we take care of scheduling a kick-off meeting. This is where we meet in person, create a concrete scope of work, and meet any other members of the team. Following the kick-off meeting, we dive into the design process. We order samples, schedule meetings and present to you our designs with our digital design boards.

Once you’re in love with your new space, proposals have been signed and invoices have been paid- we take care of ordering, receiving, and inspecting of your new goodies. All you have to do is sit back and dream about your new home.

We love sharing about our process and client experiences. We are always happy to answer any questions you may have about working with an interior designer and what you can do to ensure you have a positive design experience. Stay tuned for more blog posts on where we break down each part of the process, answer FAQ’s and of course tips on how to design a life you love.

Master Bedroom | Perfectly Layering Neutrals

Often times clients come to us wanting help pulling together their space, but are nervous to invest their money into a space they can’t visualize. Whether it’s a new construction project that entails pulling together several finishes and fixtures, or a decorating project like this one- we always utilize realistic design boards before any orders are placed.

We love pulling together every detail in the space, and making it feel truly one of kind. We recently designed this stunning master bedroom and couldn’t wait to share it with you all. This space is an example of mixing not only patterns, but also price points- to achieve the perfect look.

Mixing neutrals, along modern sleek patterns is quickly becoming the trend to learn towards in decór. We love this striped upholstered bed frame for it’s updated, but also timeless feel. I love the side tables we chose for a high-end look with a great price tag. The little slide out drawer is also such a convenience for late night reading. The rug we chose brings warmth to the space and the pair of lamps add the perfect touch of metal. The subtle but stylish bench at the end of the bed anchors the entire space.

You can find the rest of the items we used to accessorize by clicking the images below.

Spring Parade of Homes | How to Make Child + Entertainment Friendly Selections For Your Home

At Lindsey Grace Interiors, each design is specifically curated through a unique design process for each client because no vision is ever the same. However, there is one key component that remains the same. Each finish and fixture that goes into the space needs to check all the boxes of remaining durable, practical, and beautiful for years to come. We live in our homes, and whether we have busy children or love to entertain- the finishes and furnishings we invest in, need to stand up to our busy lives. In honor of the 2019 Spring Parade of Homes, I’m sharing a few tips and tricks for making those selections.

Flooring is by far one of the biggest decisions when it comes to selections for a new build. It’s the product that is going to get the most wear and tear. Whether you chose a real wood product or go the luxury vinyl tile route, the color and finish is going to make the biggest difference. I suggest going with a mid-tone finish, similar to these hardwoods we selected for a client while I designed for Bria Hammel Interiors. They are light enough to hide dirt and dust, while also having enough variation and character to hide minor scratches.

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When it comes to tile, a good ceramic is my go-to option for durability. They are also very cost-effective, which is a major win. There are various shapes, colors, and sizes to make each design unique.

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When it comes to fireplace design, I recommend you forgo the raised hearth to avoid yet another hard surface for children to trip on. Bonus, your TV will be in better view height and you won’t get that sore neck from strained viewing! Also, I recommend opting for open shelving to utilize baskets or drawer storage for toys and games. Either option makes for a much more organized space than doors with shelving.

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I’m a huge fan of wallpaper in nurseries and children’s spaces. It’s the perfect space to add pattern and color. It also cuts down on the need for artwork. With that being said, wallpaper is an investment when it comes to the product and the labor. Install the wallpaper above wainscoting to ensure that your little “Picasso” doesn’t take matters into their own hands. Side note, if you aren’t already following Monika Hibbs on instagram, I highly recommend it!

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These are just a few of our go-to tips for selections when it come to new construction. Leave your favorites in the comments below, and be sure to check out the several beautiful homes featured in the Fargo/Moorhead Parade of Homes this weekend. You can find the complete details and home guide here.

Sneak Peek Project Reveal | Sheyenne River House

As designers, we wear many hats- but it’s safe to say that the journey of new construction is one of my favorites. The end goal is to make the process for the client more simplified. We tackle this by breaking down the selection meetings & being in constant communication every step of the way.

The Sheyenne River home has been a project near and dear to our hearts over the past few months. I am so excited to share with you all some of the amazing spaces that have come together in collaboration with the home owners. We are still working on finalizing some of the details such as furniture, hardware & mirrors but I wanted to share the progress we’ve been making.

The kitchen in the Sheyenne River home is so bright and beautiful. This feel comes from the all white finishes, but also the natural lighting that filters into the space from every angle. To add a bit of warmth, the homeowner selected the most beautiful oak hardwoods which compliment the natural barstools perfectly! To add a bit of contrast, we added black fixtures paired with polished nickel hardware which creates a fresh but timeless feel. Who noticed the cutest little arched doorway? This leads into the expansive pantry and pocket office, which we will share more of soon.

With a fully open layout, the kitchen wall mirrors the adjacent great room wall. We got creative with the great room fireplace wall and spent lots of time discussing the detail that would go into the design. The grey washed brick-tile surround compliments the classic but updated feel of the entire home.

Check back soon for more details of this beautiful home we were so fortunate to be apart of.

Shop the look below!

Style Guide | Neutral Paint Colors

Selecting the right paint can truly make or break the space, and with so many options out there we do our best to simplify the process for our clients. One of the most common questions we receive is about our go-to paint colors, so here you go! These are our tried and true, most-used neutrals. Which one is your favorite? We’d love to hear in the comments below!

Project Reveal | Rivers Bend Master Bedroom

What’s better than starting the year off with a space designed specifically for you? It’s hard for me to choose just one space to be the most important in any home, but I would have to say that our bedrooms are at the top of my list. It’s where we start and end each day- and some days the place we go to get away from all the happenings in-between.

When this client asked me to help pull together the last untouched space in their home, we reviewed inspiration images and discussed all their wishlist for the space. I knew it had to hold up to their busy family but also be bright, beautiful, and have a touch of feminine.

For the bed frame, we sourced a custom upholstered bed frame and head board in a clean white fabric. The fabric itself is an indoor/outdoor grade fabric, so it will hold up for family movie nights and be easy to maintain. On either side of the bed frame, we added a pop of color and texture with the bed side tables. The client had an existing leather bench that we utilized at the end of the bed, and to tie in the natural tones we added a natural woven accent chair.

To finish off the space we tied in brass accents in the lamps, artwork, and hardware. The custom draperies really add texture, color, and elegance. You can read even more about the Rivers Bend Master in the latest issue of Midwest Nest Magazine.

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Style Guide | Layered Bedding

Getting the perfect layered look with bedding is a quick and easy change you can make to freshen up the look of your bedroom in no time. That's why I've decided to break down the (not so basic) bedding basics- that you should use to make your bed look perfect put together.

Let's start with what you don't see. These are the items that really make or break a well put together (and cozy) bed. First step, using a feather bed directly on top your existing mattress creates the perfect fullness affect. If you don't like using a true feather bed, there are down alternatives or really cozy foam options. Combine that with the perfect duvet insert, and you have that "cloud" look and feel you've always dreamed of. Certain bed frames leave an exposed box spring, so be sure to consider that and purchase a coordinating cover if needed. 

The next step to creating the perfect layered bedding, is probably the one thing that people have the hardest time finding their favorite "go-to's"... sheets! I've linked my favorites below. Then, I love to add a gorgeous coverlet. You can keep it the same color as the duvet like we did here to create the gorgeous clean white look, or you can switch it up by adding texture and pattern. Placing the folded duvet cover at the end of the bed showcases the coverlet and creates a gorgeous and inviting look.

Along with a gorgeous throw like the one linked above, the perfect finishing touch is always good pillows. The size selected really depends on the size of your bed, but my general rule of thumb is always the more substantial the better they will look. When selecting pillow sizes, always consider creating that tiered affect- and don't be afraid to switch it up! Throw pillows can easily be moved around from different spaces in your home to create a whole new feel in each room. Don't forget your inserts!

The final step? Kick-back and relax, enjoy your new cozy bed.

Friday Favorites | Our Top Pinned Items This Week

Happy Friday everyone! It's been a busy couple weeks getting new construction plans finalized and selecting furniture for spring decorating installations. Although we started the week with a major snow storm in Fargo, it seems that the projects never slow down for very long. In true Midwestern fashion, we work through it all. With that said, I think I can speak for most- spring needs to hurry up! 

I love keeping you all up to date on the projects I've been working on, and one way to do that is sharing the inspiration I've been using to kick-start some of the most fun projects. It also allows me to share the love for other designers, a win-win. 

Starting each project from the ground up, I love digging into all the details with the team- from architects, to builders, to the home owners- team work truly makes the dream work. For one project, I fell in love with the idea of these warm wooden garage doors. They make the first impression of the home feel so warm, welcoming, and inviting. Just one of the many gorgeous images that inspire our projects. Enjoy this weeks top pinned items.

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Gift Guide | Valentines Day For Her & Him

It's the week before Valentine's Day and I've created my gift guide for this year. There's a little bit of everything, and a separate guide for her and him! We'll start with ladies first. 

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1 | Apple Watch Band: For the girl who loves her tech just as much as fashion, a band for her Apple watch is perfect. I love how fashion forward the watch bands are becoming, making them look more professional as well as stylish. 

2 | Heart Jewelry Tray: This cute tray makes the perfect accessory for any vanity. It's also creates a special space for your loved one to store her most important pieces. 

3 | Pink Water Bottle: This is the perfect gift for the girl who loves to work out, or just any girl really. I love the new 'Pink Topaz' color that S'Well just came out with. You can also feel really good about giving this gift. It's toxin-free and part of the proceeds of each purchase go to UNICEF to help provide clean drinking water around the world.

4 | Customized Candle: How sweet is this customized candle from The Little Market? They have the most amazing scents and top quality products. The mission of the Little Market is also just as beautiful as their products. They're entire brand is made up of fair trade, ethically sourced, artisan made products. 

5 | Lip Masks: For the girl who loves to pamper herself, there's nothing better than an at home beauty treatment. These products from Patchology are the best. 

6 | Silk Pillowcase: This my friends, is the secret of all beauty secrets and your valentine will love you for it. It's a pillowcase that saves your second day hair and helps keep moisture in your skin. Trust me guys, it's a thing. 

7 | Cards: These are the sweetest cards that your valentine is sure to love. This one from Sugar Paper LA has a mini message (everything mini is cuter, right?) and comes in the prettiest color of blush. For those that love to add a little humor to their relationship Emily McDowell Studio is perfect. 

8 | Pave X-Ring: A Valentines Day round up wouldn't be complete without a gorgeous piece of jewelry. For the traditional gift giver, Stone and Strand has the most adorable items. I also love the stacking rings and petite necklaces. 

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1 | Leather Phone & Card Case: This is the perfect gift for the guy who is always on the go. Not only is it super functional, it also comes in a gorgeous durable leather. 

2 | Tumbler: These are perfect for any guy. These Yeti tumblers come in really great colors, are dishwasher safe, and work for both hot and cold beverages. 

3 | Face Cleanser Set: I feel like these are the type of gifts guys love, but don't go out and buy for themselves. My Fiance loves this brand. I bought a different brand of face wash and chapstick- he was not impressed. Stick to the good stuff, and this is it! 

4 | Cologne: Another gift item guys love to have, but never seem to purchase for themselves. Picking a scent for someone else can be difficult- but this one is super versatile and fresh smelling. 

5 | Leather Key Fob: I love this key fob from The Little Market and that the company has expanded to make more products that can be gifted for men. Like the custom candle we included in our gift guide for her, these products are all fair trade, ethically sourced, artisan made products. 

6 | Duffle Bag: How sleek is this duffle bag? It also has so many compartments and is perfect for a carry on or weekend road trip. It also comes with a shoulder strap!

7 | Watch: Much like an apple watch, these watches from MVMT have versatile strap options. I love these types of gifts because they can be easily customized. They are also great quality and come in super cool packaging. 

I hope you love this years Valentines Day Gift Guide. What other gifts do you love to give? Mention in the comments below! 

Friday Favorites | Our Top Pinned Items This Week

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We have two weeks of Friday Favorites to catch up on this week. I am so excited to be meeting new clients, contractors and professionals in the Fargo community. Lindsey Grace Interiors has become a member of the Chamber of Commerce, which is such a wonderful and supportive community. I was able to attend the FMWF Women Connect through the Chamber last week, and I met so many amazing business women. We all had the honor of hearing Robyn Benincasa's story, it's safe to say she had the entire ball room inspired. 

Last week, I also had a content shoot with the lovely Sophie Grace Photo. All the original content on my blog and instagram is taken by Sophie, and she does such an amazing job! I can't wait to share with you all the exciting posts we have coming up in the next few months. 

I plan on starting a short blog series of 'random facts' that help clients get to know the crazy journey that has been my design career over the past several years. Although Lindsey Grace Interiors is new to the Fargo community, I am not new to the design industry. I've had experiences (and adventures) working in New York City, Minneapolis, and the Mid-West over the past several years, and I can't wait to share more with you all-stay tuned!

Now, to our Friday Favorites- the inspiring and gorgeous items I've been pinning this week.

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E-Design

One of the questions I'm often asked by perspective clients is how far I'm willing to travel outside of the Fargo community. The truth is, I love to travel- so there really is not many places I turn down. Whether it's beneficial for me to travel to the actually site depends solely on the scale of the project. This question also brings up the topic of E-Design, and whether it's the right fit for the job. So- what exactly is "E-Design"?

Basically, E-Design allows you to invite a designer into your home- without actually having to even be in the same city, state or area. It's changed the game of interior design. It allows everyone to be able to benefit from the services offered by designers, no matter how big or small the budget.

Friday Favorites | Our Top Pinned Items This Week

It's that time of year when most of us are only thinking about where we can escape on a spring break getaway. We're having an especially cold winter in North Dakota, and I know the Fargo home builders can't wait to break ground on their upcoming spring projects. I think this weeks pins are a sign that I'm ready to say goodbye to the cold too!

This week we received tons of new fabric samples from our gracious vendors, and you may have seen a few sneak peeks on my instastories for upcoming projects. I love the new spring collections that are coming out and I am so excited to use them. I also wrote a blog on one of my favorite materials to utilize when selecting material finishes for a home. If you missed the post on my favorite cement tiles (and the sources to find them!) you can read it here.

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Do you have an exciting home project you can't wait to start? Or is your mind mostly on spring travel? Share in the comments below! 

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Style Guide | Cement Tile

As a designer, I feel like I am constantly claiming my obsession. The truth is, there are several trends I will admit I am obsessed with- wallpaper, brass, a great fig tree- although among the top is, cement tile. Picking out flooring for a new construction job or remodel can be a daunting task. There's a lot of factors that go into selecting the perfect material for each space. Not only does aesthetic and budget need to be considered, but also comfort and maintenance. I could write several posts on selecting the right flooring for each space (and I definitely plan to do so!), but this post is dedicated solely to my love of cement tile.

Without getting too technical, the maintenance and installation of cement tile is extremely important. If clients are nervous about the upkeep, I recommend using the material in a lesser traffic area, such as the laundry room vs the mudroom. With that being said, I strongly encourage you to go for it if you're dreaming of installing that perfect pattern in your kitchen- just make sure it's properly grouted, installed, and sealed. How do you know it's properly sealed? Water should bead on the surface. You'll also have to reseal every couple of years, as needed.

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Since cement tile is a manufactured product made of natural materials, it's important to understand that a natural patina will occur over time. Patina, is a fancy word for describing that it will fade in some areas. Wear will show. I love this about certain products, including cement tile, because it can create that cozy lived in charm.

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Along with proper installation, it's also important to specify how you would like the tiles laid out. Since the pattern is technically created when four tiles meet, there are typically several different lay outs that can be created.

Budget. Although not all beautiful things are costly (even though in the design world this sometimes seems false) I would not recommend cement tiles as a cost saving option. The price of the actual material can differ between manufacturers, but it's also important to remember that the cost usually goes towards the installation. It can be a timely process, but oh so worth it! If you're worried about budget, consider smaller spaces, as a little bit of a good thing can make a huge impact.

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