Elementary School Career Day

Career day at Valley View Elementary

Career day at Valley View Elementary in Austin, Texas (supporting the VVE Booster Club) is one of my favorite events of the year. We gather old kids magazines and discontinued fabrics from a few local stores, draw up a floor plan and off we go.

This year we had 31 kids (4th and 5th graders) choose "Interior Designer" as a career they wanted to learn more about. Some of the other careers that were available were Spa Owner, Photographer, Realtor, Wedding Planner, Doctor, Veterinarian, SWAT Team and Mounted Police. Can you imagine going up against policemen on horses for a tweens attention?!

We handed the kids a floor plan and a furniture template and requested they come up with their "Dream Bedroom" to present to the class at the end of the meeting time. It is amazing what those kids came up with in 30 minutes. Some preferred to draw only, while others picked fabric swatches and combed through every magazine I brought for ideas.

We had ladders to lofts above the beds, full functioning rooms that the kids would never have to leave except to request additional food. One girl even added on to the 18 x 25 room because she couldn't plan her bedroom without knowing where the bathroom door would be located.

Thank you to Valley View for allowing me to spend time with their wonderful and creative kids. I had a great time and can't wait to come back next year!

Below are some of the fun drawings and kids hard at work. There are some budding Designers and Architects in this mix. I will be able to say "I knew them when..."

Career Day

Career Day

Career Day

Career Day

Career Day

Career Day

Career Day

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Top 5 Ceiling Fans of 2015

Paula Ables Interiors would like to celebrate our top 5 favorite Ceiling Fans of 2015. How did we decide our favorites, you might ask?  We took a lot of key features into consideration:  Color, Texture, Aesthetics, and Function.

#1  Artemis XL5 Fan by MinkaAire

This striking fan is available in a variety of sizes and colors including transparent.  Our favorite is as pictured:  54", 5 Blade fan made from Distressed Koa Wood.  You can get it with or without the light.  A little on the pricier side of things, but we think its unique appearance and balance make it worth the expense.  This fan could be used in your more public spaces such as the Great Room or Game Room or it would be a nice addition to any Master Bedroom.

#2 Haiku Fan by Big Ass Fan Company

The Big Ass Fan Company has added Residential Interior fans to their list of successful and dramatic fans.  This fan is offered in a variety of sizes and color combinations as well.  We think the Caramel bamboo with black hardware (as pictured)give it a dramatic flare.  This fan tops the list as the priciest of the fans listed, but with a name and reputation like Big Ass Fan, I would expect no less.  This fan with its more contemporary, masculine look is great for a Game Room, Man Room or Office space.

#3 Ariel Fan by Savoy House

The Ariel is available in a variety of sizes, but for color, this is it.  We love the unique styling of this fan with the addition of the "winglets" which help to produce 20% more airflow and 205 less energy consumption than comparable fans.  We like to use this fan in smaller rooms such as Secondary Bedrooms and Tv Rooms.

#4 Bristol Fan by Quorum International

The Bristol fan is available in a variety of colors and can come with or without the lower light kit.  We like to see this fan with the light kit as pictured.  This fan is great in kids rooms and baby rooms where a nightlight might come in handy.  The upper area of the fan is a separate light that can be dimmed to a soft glow to provide a warm, cozy feeling to any room.

#5 Gyrette Double Fan by MinkaAire

The Gyrette Double fan is a wind producing machine!  This fan is outdoor rated, so it can be used on your outdoor sitting and dining areas as well as screened in patios.  This fan is also available in a variety of colors.  The individual fan heads are independently adjustable and you can have it function as one, two or three fans in one.  This fan provides hours of entertainment for the remote control lovers in your life.

We understand that choosing the right ceiling fan for your room can be a challenge.  If you are in the market for a new one, check out one or our past blog called: 5 Tips for Picking a Ceiling Fan. There is more to the perfect fan and creating the perfect space than just the look of a fan.  Function is important too.  If you are in the market for adding some new lighting and would like a little help upgrading your room, give us a shout.  We would love to help you out.

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HGTV Fresh Faces of Design Competition

Paula Ables Interiors is proud to be one of the 12 nominees in the "Organically Designed" Category of the HGTV Fresh Faces of Design Competition!

I need your help to win my category and move on to the next level of competition.  Hit the "Category Nominee" button above and you will go straight to my Category on the HGTV website.  You will need to go through approximately 10-20 photos for the "Organically Inspired" Category, then a "Vote" button will appear on my photo.  You can vote once a day.  EVERY DAY!!!  So put it on your schedule with your morning coffee.  This is what the middle of the page will look like:

The beautiful house that was nominated is one of our latest jewels,  The LAKE AUSTIN CONTEMPORARY house on our website.

To tell you a little about the Competition, there are 11 categories with up to 12 nominees in each category.  You can vote once a day.  Voting Begins on September 25th at 9am and ends on October 30th @5pm.  Once the voting is over a panel of celebrity judges will convene to choose the overall winner of the competition.  Overall Winner and Category Winners will be announced on November 3rd on the HGTV website.

Thank you so much for your support during this exciting competition.  Don't forget to VOTE TODAY!!

About HGTV

America’s leading home and lifestyle brand, HGTV features a top-rated cable network that is distributed to more than 96 million U.S. households and HGTV.com, the premier source for home-related inspiration, instruction and entertainment, attracts more than six million people each month. The brand also includes the HGTV HOME™ consumer products line which showcases exclusive collections of paint, flooring, lighting, furniture, plants, fabrics and other home-oriented products. For more information on HGTV HOME branded products and to find a retailer, go to www.hgtvhome.com. In partnership with Hearst Magazines, the HGTV Magazine, a home and lifestyle publication, is currently available on newsstands. Viewers can become fans of HGTV and interact with other home improvement enthusiasts through Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram. Headquartered in Knoxville, Tenn., HGTV is wholly owned by Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc. (SNI).

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6 steps to consider when designing a kids closet

Kid's closets are an interesting challenge.  They are often the smallest closets in the house and you are trying to hide the most items in there.  I hear many parents say, "it is just a kid's closet, they don't need anything fancy".  We understand where they are coming from, but disagree with that way of thinking.  A child's closet is the "organization training wheels" to teach your kids a few important life skills at an early age.  For this blog we collaborated with one of the owners of California Closets Texas Hill Country, Jill Siegel.

1. Make sure you have enough shelves:

Here is the big question-What hangs and what folds?  Depending on your child's stage in life, the answer could be very different to this question.  With smaller kids you tend to fold more of their tiny clothes. The older they get, the more you hang.

2.  Make sure there is a place for dirty clothes:

Think of this closet design as teaching your child one of the more important life skills you can teach-organization.  There is a place for everything and everything has its place.  Where do the dirty clothes go?  Where do the clean clothes go? There is no doubt the answer to this question when you take the time to plan ahead.

3.  Make sure there is plenty of room for toys:

Kids are more likely to put things away if there are specific places for their toys to go.  Create shelf spaces in your child's closet that are fitted for specific items, such as bins for putting smaller toys and larger openings for some of their larger toys.

4.  Plan for your closet design to adjust as your child grows:

No matter the size of your child's closet, organization abilities should grow with your child as their wants and needs change.  As an infant you may need more shelf spaces for folded clothes, blankets and diapers. As a toddler you need more space for toy organization and a few additional hanging clothes. Finally, as a teen the need to organize toys goes away and gives way to the need for drawers to hide large folding items and shoe bins.

5.  Make it fun:

Closets don't have to have drab white walls and painted shelves, they can be fun like the photo below.  Take your child's closet and make it a space they want to spend a little time in.  They will enjoy all the fun little details you can add for personalization.  There are no set in stone rules here.  If your child has 10 dress-up outfits with matching plastic shoes, plan a space for them that they can reach.  Your child will enjoy knowing where all of their favorite things are and you will enjoy a cleaner room.

6. Don't forget to add your organization accessories:

Take advantage of all of the fun organizational items available when creating your child's closet.  The more fun you make it, the more likely they are to use it properly.  A few examples of items that are available include sloped shoe shelves and wire drawers. You can also take it that extra step and add down lighting and glass shelves so some of your areas can appear as decorative display.

Who says teaching organization and life skills can't be fun?  We think California Closet's concept for children's closets is well thought out, creative and fun.  Our advice to you if you are thinking about hiring a professional to organize your child's closet:  Find a designer that has kids and understands your goals and growth plans.  Thank you to California Closets for providing the wonderful photography above and thank you to Jill for all the great advice for creating and organizing your child's space.

Are you looking to update your child's space, but the thought of touching it makes you swoon, we are here to help.  Our design team has collaborated with California Closets on many different occasions and would love the opportunity to work with you on yours.  Give us a shout.

Click here to see more blog posts by Paula Ables Interiors.  

Decked out Dorm Room

This time of year a lot of kids are off to college for their first year in a new & exciting place! And while it's exciting for both the parents and the student, it's also nerve-racking, stressful, and even a little sad for everyone. You're sending your kid off to somewhere totally new, maybe far away from home, with a bunch of strangers and you just really hope they are complacent and happy--and your kid is really hoping this too! The best way to start off on the right foot? Create a comfortable living environment!

Help your child get settled in their new dorm or apartment and create an area where they will feel at home.

Below are some of our favorite Dorm Room essentials to use to design the perfect space for your child (or for yourself if you're the one going off to college).

(product details after the image)

Dorm Products List:

1. Navy Curtains - Urban Outfitters - Dorm windows typically aren't pretty so use these curtains to bring in color and provide extra privacy.   2. White Desk Shelf - Container Store - This shelf collapses so it's easy to move.   3. Table Lamps -  West Elm - With the harsh lighting of the dorm these accent lamps will create a much warmer atmosphere.   4. Cozy Bedding - Urban Outfitters - nice bedding is the quickest way to brighten your plain room and bring in your own style. Since you probably will only have this for a couple of years, don't spend too much! But don't cheap out completely...you'll already have trouble sleeping if sharing a room with a new roommate.   5. White Desk Chair - Overstock - Desk chairs don't have to be ugly or expensive. This white number is sleek and will modernize any space.   6. White Desk - Urban Outfitters -  a lot of dorm rooms now provide a desk, but if they don't you'll want to invest in at least a small table. There will definitely be nights you don't feel like going to the library and the desk will come in handy!   7. Mini Fridge - Home Depot - A necessity for all dorm rooms! You'll occasionally want your own groceries to help prevent that Freshman 15.   8. Tall Bookcase - Overstock -  If you can fit it, definitely consider purchasing a bookcase. You will be acquiring a lot more books and it will add an upscale accent.   9. Record Player - Urban Outfitters - Want to be the coolest new friend on campus? Get a record player.   10. Dishware Set - Urban Outfitters - Just like a mini fridge, dishware is a dorm necessity. An affordable set should get you all the way through College too.   11. Framed Pictures/Art - Urban Outfitters - Decorate the walls! Create a photo collage or buy a bunch of cool, inexpensive prints--it will make your place feel a lot more home-y.   12. Blanket - West Elm - A super soft throw will help get you through those long nights of studying.   13. Mongrammed Towels - PB Teen - if your dorm has a community bathroom, monogrammed towels are essential...then you'll know if someone steals your soft, fluffy towel.   14. Wall Shelf - Urban Outfitters - the more shelving & storage the better. And this one is perfect for a cool plant!   15. Accent Mirror - Urban Outfitters - Mirrors always make the room feel bigger & are great for putting by the door to look at on your way out to class!   16. Seating Poufs - West Elm -  you probably won't be spending too much time in your dorm, but you'll still want some extra seating for when your new friends come visit.   17. Floor Lamp - Urban Outfitters - Just like the table lamps, this will make your dorm environment much more pleasant & calming.   18. Sheepskin Rug - Pottery Barn - Something soft to put your feet on every morning, to make you want to get out of bed for class.   19. Blue Accent Chair - West Elm - If you can fit it, you'll appreciate this pop of color and a comfy place to sit when you need to read all those new books!

We hope this long list of items inspires you to create a dorm room where you or your child feel at home and relaxed!

Sometimes you don't know where to begin with moving in and creating a home away from home...so if you need help we would love to offer our professional advice! Feel free to reach out to us.

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6 Steps to Remodeling your Kitchen

Whether you have lived in your home for 10 years or 10 weeks, everyone at some point wants to upgrade a part of their home.  We are here to show you how to get from Drab to Fab in 6 easy steps!

1.  Assess your needs:

What is it about your current kitchen that you do not like?  Is it the color of the cabinets?  Would you prefer to have an open bar for guest to sit and it is currently a wall?  Would you like a larger kitchen?  Is there a way to add an island without breaking the bank?  These are just a few questions to get your juices flowing.

BEFORE                                                                              AFTER

(this BEFORE photo shows a dated, DIY two-tone paint.  The AFTER photo shows the upgraded taupe oil based paint. This simple paint change took the kitchen from 80's trendy to simple elegance)

2.  Come up with a budget:

No matter your budget, there is always the possibility to upgrade something.  If you only have a couple thousand to spend you can plan to repaint, add knobs and pulls to your cabinets or replace a few appliances.  Maybe you have a little more than that and would like new tile for the backsplash to go with your new counter tops and plumbing fixtures.  These are all great ways to breathe fresh air into a worn out space on a slightly tighter budget.  If you have been saving for an upgrade for years and you are ready to make your dream kitchen come true, then lets give the whole room a face lift!  I know the first thing you are thinking is "What is all of this going to cost?"  That is a tough question depending on what part of the country you live and your personal skill set.  I am a firm believer in hiring professionals to do the work rather than personally laying $80 a square foot mosaic tiles to save $200 in labor just because my neighbor said it was easy and risk a less-than-perfect finished product.  When setting your budget, plan to hire professional trades to walk you through the process.  They are not cheap but their knowledge and experience are invaluable when it comes to getting the finished product you are striving to accomplish.

 BEFORE                                                                                AFTER

3.  Do your Decorative Diligence:

There is a little homework to do, but think of it as helping fine tune your wants and needs through photos and blog posts.  Some fun sites to browse are Houzz, Pinterest, and Instagram.  Start collecting photos.  Make sure to mark on each photo what it is you like about it: paint color, pretty tile, the feel of the space, etc.  These are all great tools that you can later share with a professional to give them a better direction on the final product you would like to see.

 BEFORE                                                                                AFTER

4.  Hire a professional:

There is no reason to go it alone. Hiring a professional will save you time and money on your project as well as give you that picture perfect room you have been dreaming of all these years. Some professionals that would be an asset to your remodel project are a registered Interior Designer, Architect and Contractor. Interior Designers know more than what counter top will look best with what tile. They are able to see a space as it should be and are familiar enough with the project to help lead you step by step from beginning to end. We are the listeners, the organizers, the planners. It is our job to get you from your inspiration photo to the finished project as seamlessly as possible, all the while presenting you with ideas that you may not have considered before.  Depending on where you live you may need to hire an Architect to complete a set of construction documents for permitting purposes.  This is only true if you are moving walls, plumbing, lights, etc.  Check your neighborhood and city rules before beginning your project.  Contractors will save you a lot of headache and stress.  Their job is to keep the project moving by making sure each trade is in the right place at the right time.  The Interior Designer and the Architect have the ideas and the Contractor has the skill to pull them off.

 BEFORE                                                                                AFTER

5.  Start shopping:  

Now that you have counted your money, figured out what you want, done your research and hired a couple of professionals to lead the way, there is more fun to be had. It is time to start shopping. If you have hired an Interior Designer you can choose if you would like them to present a handful of options to you or if you would like to join them while shopping. Either way is fun for us and for you. We have a system to help lead you through the selections process. No stone will be left unturned. (We really will ask you where the most convenient spot is to reach for your Saran Wrap.) Once selections are made, we organize the information, get the bids lined up with all of the vendors and hand the info over to the contractor for purchasing.

 BEFORE                                                                                AFTER

6. Sit back and watch the magic:  

Even though you may be without your kitchen for a couple of weeks up to a couple of months, the final reveal will be worth the wait!  Your contractor has placed the orders and the Interior Designer will be in and out periodically to supervise and offer solutions as each trade is brought in to do their part.  The next thing you know you are enjoying your wonderful new kitchen!

Remodeling anything in your personal living or office space can have its inconveniences and challenges.  We would love to be there to walk you through the process.  Paula Ables Interiors is not your average Interior Design firm.  We have the knowledge and skills to go from the very beginning of your project to the end, starting with your remodel plans and construction documents all the way through selections.  If you are getting remodel fever and want to chat with a professional to help you get things started, give us a call.

(All projects pictured by Paula Ables Interiors, Photography by PAI and Coles Hairston)

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HGTV Designer Showcase-July 2015

Paula Ables Interiors is excited to be included in the HGTV Designers Showcase Series.  This wonderful article by Morgan Galbraith features our Spanish Oaks Hill Country Contemporary House on the outskirts of Austin, Texas.

Comfortable, Contemporary House Blurs Lines Between Indoors and Outdoors

A young newlywed couple wanted a comfortable, contemporary home that complemented their outdoor lifestyle. Designer Paula Ables drew on the property's surrounding nature as she created a home that the couple could enjoy for years to come.

When a young couple approached Paula Ables for help creating a home where they could feel comfortable for a long time, the Austin, Texas designer looked to their love of the outdoors for inspiration.

The newlyweds' property was the perfect spot to blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living thanks to its proximity to a greenway and wildlife.

“It was all about bringing the outside in, keeping that comfortable feel, making sure all of the furniture was oriented in the right direction so that you were able to enjoy the wildlife and enjoy the green belt beyond with the quietness and serenity of the area,” Ables says.

Soaring ceilings and oversized windows let in bright, natural light and views of the surrounding Texas landscape. Ables maintained an open floor plan among the kitchen, living and dining rooms to take advantage of the light and the views.

To further blend inside and out, Ables selected a neutral color palette for the home that complemented its surroundings and kept windows bare of coverings.

“We tried to keep the color palette fairly similar so that walking from one space to the other wasn't a shock to your senses,” Ables says. “It was always just a nice soft even flow from one space to the next.”

A stunning swimming pool and outdoor living room with fireplace offer spots for the couple to be outside with their friends and family. Inside, Ables selected easy-to-clean materials so that the constant movement between indoors and outdoors wouldn't result in hard-to-clean messes.

"We like to try to take the feel of the outside and bring it inside so that the house flows really softly and simply for entertaining as well as for their general use."    -Interior Designer Paula Ables

Ables helped accentuate the separation of the master bedroom and other private living areas from the more public living spaces with a breezeway to offer the couple privacy when they want it and to give the home the look of one that had evolved over time.

  “They wanted to feel like the house was pieced together like it had been built over time rather than all at one time,” Ables says.

Small details such as mismatched flooring tiles, rectangular sinks and hidden tape lighting seem almost insignificant up close. As a whole, they offer a sense of history to the home.

“I think it's those little details and hidden elements that give it so much more character and so much more interest,” Ables says.

To read more about Interior Designer Paula Ables, see link below.

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Austin Woman's Magazine- "Elevating Interiors"

We were excited to have our blog included in the July 2015 edition of Austin Woman's Magazine "Elevating Interiors".

 (Double click photo to enlarge article.)

Want to pick up a copy of your very own?! Austin Woman's Magazine can be found at Whole Foods, Central Market, HEB along with many other fun places you love to spend your time. You can also read the article on Austin Woman Magazine's website.

Want to see more of what Paula Ables Interiors has to offer?  Click here to enjoy the rest of our website.

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Uniquely Ever After (Great Wedding Gifts )

It's summer and wedding season is officially in full swing! We're joining the wedding festivities...but not without a unique gift that the couple will remember & treasure!

Of course it's nice to buy a newlywed couple something off their wedding registry, but sometimes there's not anything left on their registry. Or what is left, is kind of boring, too expensive, or too inexpensive. That's when we turn to our list of special wedding gifts!

We know the below items from our Special Gift List will make the couple "ooh & aah" and will add a personal touch to their new home.

Wedding Gift Product Details:

1. Eames Plywood Lounge Chair - Smart Furniture -  An Ables family tradition is to gift one of these chairs to all newlyweds in the family when they marry--to teach tasteful & classic style is lasting and important.   2. Mongolian Throw - Z Gallerie - Soft & luxurious, what more could you want for lounging on your new sofa?   3. Nelson Spindle Clock - Design Within Reach - A clock designed by one of the most celebrated mid-century designers of all time (George Nelson)--who doesn't love the classics?   4. Frida Vase - Jonathan Adler - Surreal inspirational pieces are conversation starters & are sure to make impressions.   5. Triangle Beach Towel - Jonathan Adler - Every couple will appreciate a set of chic beach towels they can even display as colorful accents in their bathroom.   6. Alessi Michael Graves Teapot - Hive Modern - A best seller since 1985, you can't go wrong with this fun kitchen accessory.   7. Reindeer Moss Wreath - Shop Terrain - A new wreath for a new home! And one that can be used indoors or outdoors, and that sustains.   8. Cutlace Gallery Frames - Anthropologie - Give the happy couple beautiful frames for some of their wedding photographs, these are romantic, timeless and perfect to frame photos of their special day!   9. Coffee Table Books - Design Within Reach & Anthropologie - Necessities that can be personalized based on who you're buying for. These won't be getting returned!   10. Luau Portable LED Lamp - Design Within Reach - Soft lighting for those romantic wine nights on the patio. Plus its rechargeable, portable & dimmable...all the perks!   11. Stone Pestle & Mortar - Hive Modern - A beautiful & functional kitchen accessory that never goes out of style.   12. Kaleido Trays - Design Within Reach - Serving guests has never been more fun with these amazing trays.   13. Beolit 15 Speakers - Beoplay - Speakers that are sleek and stylish, portable & bluetooth? The newlyweds will thank you forever.   14. Votive Cup Candleholder Set - Z Gallerie - Romantic accents will always be welcome.   15. Mr & Mrs Muse Place Card Holders - Jonathan Adler - Elevate the everyday accessory & keep your guests extra entertained.   16. Firepit - Design Within Reach - Whether they live somewhere cold or hot, the newlyweds will forever love you for this one too!   17. Monogram Pillow - Jonathan Adler - We love the idea of a monogrammed gift for a new couple, but usually despise the monogram. But this pillow is perfection...it can be customized to any color, border, or lettering you want. 

Want to give the happy couple an even BETTER gift than the ones above?!  Buy the happy couple the gift of Design with our a 2 hour consultation for $300.  We love helping create a wonderful space for new beginnings, including "how to blend his and her furniture" and help with "what stays and what goes".  Give us a call.

Click here to see more blog posts by Paula Ables Interiors.

Help Dad Relax in Style

With Father's Day around the corner, today we're talking about Dads!

Dads always seem to have their one, special seat in the house...their designated seat that no one else is allowed to sit in. And, hey, it's important for Dads to have their place to relax, watch TV, and maybe even drink a beer or two. But often times this place of relaxation is, well, not so stylish.

It seems an epidemic of ugly recliners has swept across America and sucked our fathers in to them...so this Father's Day we're doing something to help.

We're looking at how to give Dad a dapper, yet comfortable recliner. Comfort is the number one purchasing factor for men's chairs, but that doesn't mean they have to sacrifice style.

Below are some of our favorites that you should consider for Dad for Father's Day (or birthday, or Holidays...anything to help solve this ugly chair epidemic).

This recliner comes from Thayer Coggin. They have an old-school mid-century modern style that is perfect for any sleek and modern room.

And if Dad doesn't like wooden arms, then consider something like this Flight Recliner from Design Within Reach.

We love this design because it doesn't even look like a recliner, but yet it can lean all the way back and comes in multiple fabrics and colors. This particular seat, along with the example below, is manly and is also great for a wide range of interior styles.

A few more chair styles that are fairly transitional are the In Mod and the Spencer Recliner.

 

A bit less stylish and a little more cushioned for those Dads that like to take long naps...

For those that really want to nap, and lean all the way back, we love this amazing cow hide chaise lounge (it must be the Texan in us). Chaise loungers are great options as well.  Many of them give you the option to sit upright or recline at your leisure.

Last, but not least we cannot forget the Eames Lounge Chair. Although it is not a recliner, it is a sophisticated & classic design that is not only a mid-century design staple, but also very comfortable!

We have used it in a few of our design projects, often as a main focal point of the room [example image below].

Lounge chairs [with ottomans] are often more stylish than recliners, but function in a similar manner. Another fun fact about the Eames...they now come in a larger size for the taller man in your family. So if you are having trouble finding a recliner that works for Dad and your space, consider a lounger!

[This is another example of a lounger we used in a modern, high-rise condo design project].

We hope you now understand that it's not hard to replace Dad's big-cushioned, oversized, worn-out recliner, with something stylish and comfortable.

If you need help finding more than just a recliner, feel free to reach out to us! We would be happy to help you select furniture (not just for Dad) that is perfect for your space!

Click here to see more blog posts by Paula Ables Interiors. 

3 Steps to Creating your Living Wall

Now that it's summer it is time to move your gardens and plants back outside...but have you thought about moving your gardens ON the walls? Yes, we're seeing everyone pick their tomatoes & peaches and create delicious meals from their new sprouts, but we're also seeing a new craze...vertical garden walls [or living/green walls as some people call them]. People are literally buying hundreds of succulents, cacti, and grass roots and planting them on their wall. Sounds crazy, but we love it!

This live wall concept has been around for a while but has recently become extremely popular.

With the warmer weather coming, we have been planning this post (since it's best to plant during Spring & Summer), but recently Paula visited the Dwell on Design Exhibit in Los Angeles and saw various, luscious live walls to inspire the blog even more!

First of all there are 3 main things to consider when installing a live wall. We will walk through each one of them to help you create the best one for your home!

1. Space

How much room do you want to allot for your living wall?

There are wall planters that are as small as one little vase--which look great next to your front door, or inside by your office desk.

 

And then there are HUGE planters that can take up an entire wall on your back patio, or interior living room.

 

Of course the most options lie between the small planters and the huge walls...From pots you can attach to your wall, to wooden frames full of succulents, the options really are endless.

 

2. Cost

Obviously, the bigger the plant wall, the more money it's going to cost. If you are going to go really big, we suggest hiring a professional. This will allow you to customize the perfect design for your space without wasting any time or resources.

Many of the larger wall systems are plumbed with a water drip system (which is hard to self-install) to keep the plants well fed and consistently happy across the board.

If your project is smaller and does not need professional help, but you don't want to start from scratch, there are affordable starter kits or pre-made gardens [for example, the image below is multiple modular pieces from Succulent Gardens Company]

Another easy-to-use wall planter is Skale Greenwall. You can install it & customize it yourself [for a pretty penny]. But may be worth  the cost, because the result is beautiful!  Why reinvent the wheel when you can purchase ready made systems from the pros?

Now there are hundreds of companies & landscape architects that will build a vertical garden for you (we suggest looking up local landscape companies). While this may not save you money, it will save you a lot of time. Live walls can be tedious to build depending on which plants you use...which brings us to our next point!

3. Types of Plants

Now the fun part! Picking out your plants.

People typically think of succulents and cactus for their green wall plants, but grass & more leafy plants can be great for taking up more space with less costs.

 

It really doesn't take a lot to create an attractive succulent garden. Since they are from the same family of plants they all seem to compliment each other greatly. Creating clusters of the same types of succulents will make for a very eye-catching display. Just be sure the succulent wall has plenty of sunlight since that is what makes these plants thrive.

You may also consider using your wall planter for herbs and flowers...Especially if you live in an apartment or office with no outdoor gardening space, this can be an amazing resource for cooking and for extra fresh air!

Lastly, consider air plants! These are the easiest plants to care for and they are very eye-catching and appealing in any room! We always love the fun touch they add.

  

If you are still hesitant about taking the green wall plunge, consider the many benefits:

Improved air quality, reduced energy costs, reduced noise levels, & of course amazing aesthetics.

If you would like a live wall in or around your home and don't know where to start, feel free to reach out to us! We may not be landscape designers, but we are true Pros when it comes to space planning and balance within your room or space.  We would love to work with you to create the best look/most complimentary space for your new wall!

Click here to see more blog posts by Paula Ables Interiors.

At Home with Mom

Moms are often the ones who hold a home together and make home feel like our special place! For this Mother's day we picked out some of our favorite gifts for the home, to make your mom feel loved in the place that she does the most for you and your family.

A lot of these gifts are very functional, but are so cute they won't feel like something she needed, but rather something she's been wanting!

[more details after the image]

Gift Ideas for Mom:

1. Yellow Serverware - Anthropologie - A happy, yellow tea set to serve happy guests // 2. Place mats - Design Within Reach - For the more contemporary taste // 3. Dish towels - Anthropologie - Cute accents always brighten a kitchen // 4. Floral Tablecloth - Anthropologie - Beautiful, spring linens cheer up a table and its guests // 5. Marble & Wood Serving Boards - Shop Terrain - Because you can never have too many charcuterie boards // 6. Mother's Day Card - Anthropologie - Adorable card for an adorable mother // 7. Glass Shadow Boxes - West Elm - For all the meaningful trinkets that remind her of you // 8. Gardening Tools - Shop Terrain - Cute tools make work in the garden more fun // 9. Ceramic Candles - Anthropologie - Her favorite scent is now a darling, home accessory // 10. Mongolian Lamb Pillow - West Elm - For the mom who loves a little luxury // 11. Yellow Zinia Wreath - Shop Terrain - Dried floral wreaths are charming and reusable // 12. Opaline Frame - Anthropologie - Because every mom can appreciate a framed picture of her loved ones // 13. Colored throws - West Elm - For cuddling up in style with her favorite people

We hope you enjoy your time with your mom and/or family this weekend!

Maybe you're looking to give your mom, mother-in-law, or wife more than just a gift for the home...We would love to help you with an entire room or home makeover! Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries.

Click here to see more blog posts by Paula Ables Interiors

Winning Window Treatments

Whether your windows look dated and old, your hardwood floors are fading due to sun exposure, or you just need a little more privacy...we have a solution for your needs. There are hundreds of reasons to cover windows in your house, and even more ways to do so!

Today we are going to show you some of our favorite treatments that are not only functional, but also decorative and adorning.

1.  Roller Shades/Roman Shades

If you are looking for something to provide a little color and privacy when needed without blocking your view, these are great options to consider.

  

Roller shades are simple and can often disappear behind a valance or in a drapery pocket.

Roman Shades are considered a little more decorative, yet just as functional as the roller shade.

For example, in the image above (on the right) we remodeled a client's bathroom and used the Roman shade to add color and personality as well as privacy.  This particular shade is a top down/bottom up shade providing the client privacy and openness in any form they wish.

Roller Shades and Roman Shades are both offered in a variety of material from slightly see-through to black-out depending on your personal needs.

  

 2.Window Film

Window films are a great alternative to shades and drapes.  If you are wanting a less fussy look, this is the way to go.  Window films are available with UV protection, frosted, colors and patterns. The options are endless.

 

Though films are not that easy to install properly yourself, they are still an economical option to consider when covering your windows. Just as you wouldn't tint the windows on your car yourself, the house is the same thing.  Hire a company like Sunsational Solutions to get a bid and start the path towards a more comfortable room.

Great uses for films are: to provide privacy in an office space, for a conference room or glass office, but also to adorn a plain and boring environment.

They are also great for small windows next to your shower, because they allow light to come in but shield from outsiders.

3.  Wooden Blinds/Wooden Shutters

Next are a couple of classics--blinds and shutters. Though they have fallen out of favor in the last 5 years, wooden blinds and shutters are still a clean and simple option for your window coverings.

   

Wooden blinds are great for little nooks, and shorter windows. If your whole house is covered in wooden blinds it can start to look really dark and heavy, but using them sporadically can provide cozy accents.  (using a light color such as white rather than the stained wood tones will help prevent the feeling dark and heavy feel.)

Shutters function very similarly to blinds in that they easily block out light, but can be "too much" if used all over.  Stick with lighter painted colors and use in areas you need more privacy.  Avoid installing shutters in public spaces with views when possible.

4.  Drapery

Drapery adds color, accentuates your style and gives the room a little personality when needed.

No matter the use or function, drapes always make a statement.  The question is, what is the statement you are wanting to make about yourself and your room?

Are you wanting fun and airy? Luxurious? Privacy?  Blackout?  There is so much more to installing the perfect drape then a quick run to Bed Bath and Beyond.  Make sure to measure the space & know how you want the drapes to function (regular rod or traversing?) (how does the material hang?) (how easy is it to clean? and on and on).

No matter which window treatment you like the best, getting that perfect finish to the room can sometimes require a little extra help.

If you are interested in updating your windows, we can help you find the right treatment! Feel free to reach out to us.

*For more product details, click on the photos.

Click here to see more blog posts by Paula Ables Interiors.

7 Easy Spring Updates

Your Spring Cleaning is done, yay! Now why not reward yourself for all that hard work? Get some new items to fill in those now empty spaces & add a cheery touch to make your home completely Spring/Summer ready!

 

1. First off, Flowers

Nothing says Spring more than a fresh bouquet of flowers on the dining room table or kitchen island!

And maybe go a step further and buy new outdoor pots and/or plants. It will instantly bring life to your indoors and outdoors [pun intended].

 

2. Dazzling Dishtowels

Bright-colored or happy-printed towels and placemats always illuminate and warm up a room. And they are the easiest decor items to replace!

 

3. Pretty Pillows

You've flipped the mattress, ironed your sheets & comforters, and packed up your winter quilts and blankets.

Now get yourself some vibrant accent pillows to put on your bed or sofa. They are an inexpensive purchase but make a big impact!

 

4. Niceties Now

Why wait for that bridal shower your hosting this summer to take out the china and pretty vases?

Putting your nicer accessories on display can soften a room and even lighten your mood!

 

5. Candy Crush

People often associate candy with kids, but candy can be used as an affordable, colorful, and tasty statement piece in a room.

Buy large glass jars and fill them with pretty colored candy. Place them on your bar area or side tables and you'll be surprised how many positive reactions you get.

6. Mount a Mirror

With these longer, sunnier days there is more natural light coming in to your house...take advantage of it and mount some charming mirrors!

They will reflect the light and give your house a beautiful glow.

7. Select a Scent for Spring!

Buy some lavender candles and even lavender plants to place around the home. And if lavender isn't your thing, there are hundreds of other floral scents to choose from.

But if your home doesn't look completely spring-ready, at least it will smell like it!

*You can view product info, by clicking on the above images.

If you are looking for more than just little, Spring updates to makeover your house, we would love to help! Feel free to reach out to us here.

Click here to see more blog posts by Paula Ables Interiors.

Spring Cleaning

Spring is officially here! This means hot days on the lake, dinners on the back patio, long walks in the park with the dog, and much more fun outdoors! But, it also means it's time to get our hands dirty and do some deep cleaning...

Many people feel overwhelmed by the idea of Spring cleaning and dread a weekend full of organizing and updating, so they just never do it. Others get inspired and excited at the idea of Spring cleaning and make a huge to do list that is often unreachable.

Neither mindset will get you a cleaner, neater house or give you a sense of accomplishment. So, we are here to help narrow down what to focus on during your Spring cleaning this year!

1. De-Clutter

Tax season is upon us!  Go through all the piles of papers and junk that are taking over your counters and desktops. Either throw things out or file them away.

Once the papers and piles are removed or stored then vacuum or wipe down the new empty space.

This step in cleaning will give you instant gratification and hopefully inspire you to keep going! [Organization units by California Closets]

2. Prep for "Prep Time"

I always hear people say, I really want to start cooking more! Well there's no better motivation than a shiny, clean kitchen.

Take the time to clear out your refrigerator & pantry.  Check expiration dates, throw out old food,  & spices.  Out with the old helps to make room for the new.  (Be brutal!  Are you ever really going to cook that "Dinner in a Jiffy" bag you bought at the flea market 2 years ago?)

You will feel amazing once you have put the pasta next to the pasta sauce and lined all of the cereal boxes up neatly in a row. This will also help you see what you need for cooking in your renewed kitchen!

3. Touch-Up Textiles

Another thing that many of us rarely do--have your rugs, drapes, pillows & other large textiles around the house deep cleaned. Go ahead, get rid of all that built up of dust and dirt! Breathe in the fresh Spring air!  (If you have a pet, you may want to put this on your list for at least twice a year...you never know what those little rascals are up to)

Plan to hire a carpet cleaning company to get everything extra clean.  If you have an extra large, heavy rug, some companies even provide pickup and delivery! [Hart's, Stanley Steemer, Deep Eddy Rug Cleaners]

[image via google images]

4.  Get rid of it & Give Back

Now that you've rid yourself of the stacks of paper and clutter, it's time to get rid of the piles in your closet.

This is probably the part of Spring cleaning that people dread the most, however it can be the most rewarding.

As a rule of thumb get rid of any item of clothing you have not worn in the past year or 2. Don't make excuses & don't feel guilty about it! There are plenty of places you can take your clothing & give it to people in need. [Salvation Army, Paralyzed Veterans, Safeplace, Dress for Success, Space Wise Organizing]

[image via google images]

5. Power Wash 

If it's too nice outside for you to dedicate a whole day to inside cleaning, then get outside!

There are always weeds to pull, paint to touch up, shelves to organize in the garage, and even outdoor furniture to clean.

My personal favorite part of Spring Cleaning - power washing! Play fireman for a couple of hours and give your house a total face lift. You can rent power washers for pretty cheap if you don't have one [Home Depot, Jons Rental]

These 5 Spring cleaning goals may seem overwhelming, but accomplishing one or two of the items on this list will get you another step closer to a relaxing, organized life.

Break them up over a couple of weekends and don't forget to reward yourself with a glass of wine (or your reward of choice) before and after you have completed the task.

Happy Cleaning!

If you are looking for more than just a deep, Spring clean, and are interested in a total remodel or renovation, feel free to reach out to us!

Click here to see more blog posts by Paula Ables Interiors.

*All images in this post are from Paula Ables Interiors projects, unless otherwise noted

Worlds of Wallpaper

By now, you have probably noticed that Wallpaper is making a BIG come back in the Interior Design World. Who would have guessed 15 years ago that Wallpaper would be the most-wanted textile of the decade? Not us!

But we are actually loving it!

Below are some of our favorites from 9 different categories of Wallpaper.

Worlds of Wallpaper Product info:

1. Floral 

Florals are great for kids rooms & fun accent walls. They are usually more bold and playful, but there are beautiful, subtle florals that can provide a more traditional or romantic look.

Resources: Hygge & West, Mr Perswall, Ellie Cashman

2. Geometric 

As designers, we love Geometric wallpaper! It is the best way to convert a simple room into a modern & chic space.

Resources: Cole & Son, Clever Spaces, Shumacher

3. Textured  

If you want to keep your room simple, but add interest in the details, textured wallpaper is perfect for you! 

Resources: Rockett St George, Lowes

4. Damask 

Damask is a classic print, which makes it very versatile. It can be used for almost any style of interior design to bring a sense of luxury to a room.

Resources: Graham & Brown, Fabrics & Papers

5. Replica 

Do you want a tile wall, but don't want to spend a fortune? There are multiple companies that create almost exact replicas of tile, wood, or other natural materials on wallpaper. It is also similar to textured paper, in the way that it is usually 3D and adds a layer of depth to a room.

Resources: Wallpaper Collective, Piet Hein Eek

6. Motif 

There are endless options when it comes to Motif wallpaper. You can find motifs of animals, food, and other exotic objects. It is especially great for a thematic room!

Resources: Hygge & West, Mini Moderns, Spoonflower

7. Mural 

Mural wallpapers are the coolest! They are mostly used on one wall to create a beautiful accent. If you have a large wall and don't want to buy a lot of art to cover it, mural wallpaper is a wonderful solution.

Resources: A New Wall, Rebel Walls, Murals Your Way

8. Metallic 

This is the ultimate interiors trend right now. Everyone seems to be bringing in touches of metallic to their home, and wallpaper is an intriguing way to do so!

Resources: Calico Wallpaper, Anthropologie, Flat Vernacular

9. Retro 

Mid-Century Modern Elements are also trending right now & what better way to play up those elements than with retro/vintage wallpaper? 

Resources: Graham & Brown, Aimme Wilder

As you can see, the options are endless when it comes to cute wallpaper. Plus, there are so many creative ways to use it, besides just pasting it on to a wall!

We have seen people wallpaper their old furniture, or the inset of their stairs, or even their ceilings!

The world of wallpaper is your oyster, & we would be happy to help you find the perfect way to use it.

Contact us here for inquiries.

Click here to see more blog posts by Paula Ables Interiors.