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Design Blog

Hashtag Blessed
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There are so many things to be thankful for when you work as a creative team, serving clients who love this town and the Steamboat way of life. We appreciate this time of year when we can express our gratitude and share how truly #blessed we are to live and play in this beautiful place.

The holiday season can be a stressful time of year, with friends and family coming into town and so much activity going on. We notice this in the interior design world as deadlines approach and every last sub is booked and overworked. Yes, we take on a lot of stress as well managing back-ordered furniture, recovering from shipping accidents and pressing on to make sure our clients have a place to call home on Christmas Day.

Most days we find time to laugh and share stories and then immediately get back to work. However, in the hustle and bustle of our busy days it’s just enough to keep us sane. We must remember the reasons we do what we do and the sense of accomplishment and pride we take in each of our projects.

Here are 5 things we are thankful for:

The Rumor Team: Cameron, Vicky, Lauren, Cassie, Valerie, Deb, Lindsey, Leslie (missing: Bruce, Sierra) at the Best of the Boat 2017 Annual Awards Show

The Rumor Team: Cameron, Vicky, Lauren, Cassie, Valerie, Deb, Lindsey, Leslie (missing: Bruce, Sierra) at the Best of the Boat 2017 Annual Awards Show

growing the team:

At the beginning of November we brought on two incredible humans to the team, Lauren and Cameron. They are superstars who specialize in order management and warehouse organization. This means that every item we select gets placed, tracked, received and stocked with extra care and supervision. Now our designers are able to focus in their creative work and spend more QT with our clients.

Best of the Boat 2017:

On November 10th we attended the annual Best of the Boat Awards and were so honored to be announced First Place – Best Interior Designer. It was great to hang out as a team outside of the studio and celebrate our win. We are honored to have been recognized for our work and know that our community appreciates our talented team.

Closed for Thanksgiving:

We will be closed on Thanksgiving Day and Friday, the day after. We are so thankful to take some time for ourselves, to enjoy our own homes and spend time with our families. Thank you Steamboat and our clients for allowing us this time off and understanding that a healthy, happy designer is the best kind.

Start of Ski Season:

With the celebration of Thanksgiving comes the kick-off of Ski Season! Again, this is why our team lives in and loves Steamboat. We are a mixed bag of skiers and boarders who take advantage of Powder Days and savor the sweet smell of snow.

Exciting Projects in 2018:

2018 marks the 10 year anniversary of Rumor Design + reDesign. We have grown and evolved into the amazing team we are today and are looking forward to the upcoming and ongoing projects through the New Year.

Let us know what you are thankful for in the comments. Any tiny thoughts of gratitude should be shared with the universe! Thank you for reading!

Design Book Review: The Magnolia Story
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The Magnolia Story by Chip and Joanna Gaines is an inspiring, easy read of a truly hard working couple who are comparable to rock stars in the Interior Design world.

Do you ever just want to watch a romantic comedy because you know it will make you feel good? Or more specifically, do you ever put on HGTV’s Fixer Upper just to watch the genuine compatibility of Chip and Joanna Gaines? We are all about the good feels and savored the story behind the success of Magnolia Home.

Visualizing Joanna’s descriptions of Waco, meeting Chip and starting their first retail shop, will come naturally if you've ever binged on Fixer Upper. Get ready to transport yourself back through 2008, a time of uncertainty for many, yet full of passion and prayers for Chip and Joanna.

They had endured a lot on their way to the top of the Interior Design world with plenty of unimaginable and hilarious bumps along the road. In this 184 page book, you’ll quickly read through their journey and start planning your trip to the Silos before you know it.

We are well aware that Chip and Joanna have retired their reality TV career, but also know that this was only one chapter in their life story. If you miss them already, their “theme park” home décor travel destination in Waco, TX should be added to your bucket list immediately. You can purchase curated pieces from Joanna herself at your local Target and shop online at the Magnolia Market.

Chip and Joanna are not going away any time soon, so pull up a cozy chair and get to know these two beautiful people through their book The Magnolia Story. You’ll be inspired to pursue your own passions, be kind to others along the way, and maybe even hire a professional to renovate your home or brave the project yourself! We find ourselves asking now, "what would Joanna do?"

Available at Bud Werner Library + Amazon

 

September's Design Book:

November's Design Book:

 

 

Fall Vignettes for your #roombyrumor

The season of Fall is naturally inspiring for changes around the house. Such as weather proofing and switching out your wardrobe, changing up your vignettes is another priority in our book. In the world of interior design, a vignette is "a small, pleasing picture formed by grouping several objects together". This arrangement should tell a story about you and your home, what you value or use daily.

We are always inspired to rearrange our spaces to accommodate the new mood of the season and compliment each vignette with a home fragrance that truly captures the story of our home. Below are some inspired vignettes with home decor and accessories you can take home today from the studio.

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This cozy vignette encapsulates Fall in Steamboat for any style of home. 1. The buffalo pillow provides a touch of Western flair complimented by 2. a more contemporary houndstooth patterned throw. When the temperature drops, all we want to do is grab a cozy throw and snuggle up to watch a movie or read a good book. 3. This gold grid tray adds even more of a modern feel to envelop this vignette when rearranging for Fall. 4. The Pumpkin Pomander LAFCO is the perfect fragrance to tie the entire experience together. It is a spicy mélange of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom and clove, set atop a floral heart of heliotrope, muguet, and white pumpkin, with a mix of cinnamon, pumpkin and lily of the valley.

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1. These table top sculptures remind us of winter constellations like Orion and Gemini. When it's too brisk to star gaze outside, 2. wrap yourself up in this tassel throw and cozy up under your skylight or in a window seat. 3. The aroma of the new LAFCO Starry Night will put you in the mood to study the stars with its soothing winter aura that blends the scents of ginger and stardust magnolia, a mix of bergamot, stardust magnolia and quince.

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Bring the outdoors in with this rustic vignette and the smell of chestnuts roasting through the air. 1. The new LAFCO Golden Chestnut fragrance is a Holiday classic, warm chestnuts, hazelnut cream and vanilla sugar create a seasonal gourmand presence at the heart, with a mix of lemon zest, chestnut and sugar pine. 2. These jute baskets are perfect for storage of any kind and add a contemporary touch with the two toned design. 3. All of these elements play harmoniously with the natural flow of the kazu wood sculpture. Made from roots, 100% natural and hand assembled, it is an art piece made by Mother Nature herself and a statement all on its own.

Design Book Review: Styled

Styled: Secrets for Arranging Rooms, from Tabletops to Bookshelves By: Emily Henderson

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You may know Emily Henderson from her win on HGTV Design Star - Season 5 or when she starred in her own show, Secrets from a Stylist. We know Emily from her daily stories and posts on Instagram at @em_henderson. She has a vibrant personality and eclectic approach to design that can be helpful to any set of style preferences.

The team at Rumor Designs is always on Instagram @rumordesigns. We post daily stories from the jobsite and curate content from our projects and musings on our feed. We also find and follow other designers that we admire and are inspired by, like Emily.

We love her daily styling tips and inspiration pics, so I decided to pick up a copy of her book at the local library. I enjoyed the fact that her book also makes a great styling prop, which she encourages using throughout your home to enhance any space.

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The book is great resource for getting your feet wet in the design world. It focuses primarily on the visual elements of design, arranging a living room or dining room and vignettes at your entry or on a bookshelf. Her intensive style quiz will point you in the right direction according to your results, however all of her “rules” and advice can be applied to a variety of tastes.

We have to agree on the many design “rules” she has spelled out and shares examples of through beautiful rooms and vignettes. Layering, balance and scale all play into the overall aesthetic of a space.  Her “rule of 3s” translates across any artistic medium with something vertical, horizontal and sculptural that ties everything together.

I am confident this book can be utilized in any home, for a fun snowy day project or when you tire of the current state of your home. Emily encourages the readers to work with the things they already own, pieces they love, and to get creative with artwork. At Rumor, this is the perfect guidebook for a styled photoshoot after completing one of our projects. We loved the book so much, we just purchased a copy for the studio.

Let us know what you think of the book, or if you have any recommendations for our next design read. 

 

October's Design Book:

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November's Design Book:

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10 Things you can do after work today to prepare your home for Fall

As the seasons change, the utility of your home will change as well. Your home will turn into your retreat as the daylight dwindles earlier each day. You may not even notice a dramatic change in weather until winter, so Fall is great time to prepare for these needs.

The 10 Things below will inspire you to make small changes in this season of opportunity to ensure your home is cozy and welcoming for your family and guests.

1. Harvest your Garden

photo via Julie Blanner

photo via Julie Blanner

photo via 100 Layer Cake

photo via 100 Layer Cake

Hearty decorative produce is a great way to bring the outdoors inside in a way that feels organic and fresh. It’s time to harvest the squash and adorn your home with these fall fruits instead of the go-to summer citrus.

2. Plump your Pillows

Pull out the occasional pillows and reintroduce them to fresh air before the snow falls. Down filling can absorb moisture over time and flatten in shape. If they've been packed away for most of the year, you'll want to plump them back up with a few shakes, or even toss them in the dryer with a tennis ball for about 10 minutes. Your cozy cushions and pillows will provide enticing seating areas for any rainy day activity.

3. Relocate a Cozy Throw

That cozy blanket you've been staging in the guest room can become a game changer in the family room. Drape a throw over your ottoman, or layer it over the back of your sofa, which can change up the color scheme completely. For example, these two throws bring out the fall colors of this contemporary art creating a cozy, inviting space to watch holiday movies or read a classic novel.

4. Add a Toe Warmer

The "Toe Warmer" has been a signature style of Rumor Designs since our founding in 2008. Typically known as a "bed scarf" we've come up with our own name for this design hack to prioritize function over fashion. Fold over an extra blanket or patterned duvet at the end of your bed until needed as the temperature drops overnight.

5. Catalog Your Coffee Table Books

photo via Pinterest

photo via Pinterest

photo via Pinterest

photo via Pinterest

Rotate your cookbooks out of the kitchen and pull down your dusty classics from the library. Swap out your coffee table art and fashion books for more approachable reads that will provide warmth through the winter nights when nothing on Netflix will suffice.

6. Create Fall Feels with a Home Fragrance

photo via Pinterest

photo via Pinterest

Diffusers, essential oils and candles are a great way to bring mood enhancing scents into your home. LAFCO candles are our favorite option for a home fragrance that will burn 90 hours, made with natural essential oil-based fragrances. Add one of these scented candles into a catch all tray with a book of matches for autumn ambiance in a snap.

7. Stage your Mudroom

The entry way into your home sets the stage and tone for the rest of your evening. Set out your muck boots and umbrellas to prepare for mud season conditions while creating a Pinterest worthy vignette for Fall. You may even decide to walk the pup after dinner more often - rain, snow, or shine.

8. Create a Command Station

photo via Trendir

photo via Trendir

The whole family is running around now that school is back in session, from winter sports club schedules and dance rehearsals, so it's important to remember that communication is key. Replace one or two pieces of artwork on your gallery wall with a chalkboard command station. If your household already has one, you can script autmn poems and tack up daily affirmations or incoming holiday cards.

9. Stock up on Brown Booze

Refresh your bar cart or wet bar with seasonal spirits and accompanying mixers for a fabulous fall cocktail at a moments notice. Brown booze goes a long way in the winter months, from hot toddy's and baking, to holiday parties and last minute gifts.

10. Keep your Greenery!

An olive branch or magnolia foliage can adapt to any seasonal decor- and florals don’t have to die out by winter. Keep them around and in every room, these greenery pieces and stems can single handedly refresh any space. Invest in faux florals that look and feel organic no matter the season.

If you're not ready for Fall by now, get in the mood with a few leaf peeping excursions. The aspens and ferns are already changing colors and they will be covered in snow before you know it!

Rumor Designer Home Tour

What does the interior of an interior designer's home look like? We are proud to be able to share the unique, inspired home of one of our own designers, Lindsey Jamison.

Her home has been featured in not one, but two national publications. Lindsey was living in Casper, WY and designing a range of client's homes, all the while renovating her own home with a little more hands on approach, also known as DIY.

At work, Lindsey styles rooms with high end furnishings and curated art pieces while at home she replicates those same design styles and inspirations on a budget. Lindsey adds color, creativity and playfulness to every project she is on, including her own home which she sold in 2016 when she moved her young family of five to Steamboat.

Come on in, look around and ask any questions! Photography by David Patterson.

The grid design behind the banquet was hand painted using a yardstick and pencil, then traced over with black paint.

A mix of vintage chairs surround a large dining table to seat six.

These two vintage chairs were revived after finding them next to a dumpster. Lindsey spray painted the legs to replicate a two toned dipped look.

A handy stencil, paint and patience helped transform this door into a portal for fun.

Lindsey used the same chandelier that was once hung over the dining room table. 

Lindsey and her husband Josh took on the challenge to tile a herringbone backsplash to create this light, clean look that makes this space fresh and inviting.

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Lindsey moved with her young family of five to Steamboat in 2016 and immediately joined the Rumor team. Lindsey fell in love with design while earning her degree in education from Missouri State University.

Her passions for design eventually lead her to obtain a degree from the Interior Design Institute. She enjoys working with textiles, incorporating pattern and color into each design, and loves to mix old with the new.

Lindsey was the co-owner of the interior design studio MASH in Casper, WY up until moving to Steamboat and also has her yoga teacher training certification. We are lucky to have such an experienced and inspired designer on our team.

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Summertime "To-Do" List in Steamboat Springs, CO

Designing homes in Steamboat Springs is a full time, year round job.  A lot of our clients are either new to town or second homeowners who visit Steamboat during the ski season and again in the summer. We feel lucky to live in a community that celebrates the summer season as much, if not more than the winter months. In the summer, there is only so much time to squeeze in all of the incredible activities and events going on right here in Steamboat Springs, CO.

You’ve seen our jam packed Chamber Calendar and you’ve read plenty of lists titled “What to do in Steamboat Springs” but you still can’t decide on an activity for the weekend. Maybe there are too many choices, yes it's possible. As designers, it’s our job to hone in on the best options and ensure you're well equipped to make a selection. Here you have it, a “to-do” list designed just for you - so that you maximize your time here and enjoy what we feel is the best of summertime in Steamboat.

Arts & Entertainment

At Rumor we are advocates of arts & culture, we appreciate all of the diversity these events and performances bring to our community.

When such events are set on a stage combined with the natural beauty of our outdoors, the level of enjoyment is amplified. Here is our top list of things to do for Arts & Entertainment:

 

 

 

 

Free Summer Concert Series – this gem is on the top of our list for things to do in Steamboat, period. On concert days, we close the studio early and head over with the whole team. The series brings in nationally recognized artists to Howelsen Hill Amphitheater and crowds of local families lay out blankets and camp chairs to relax and enjoy the music.

Movies on the Mountain – another fun, free event at the base of the mountain. Enjoy family friendly movies and snuggle up with your own picnic for a great date night.

 

 

Music on the Green - this free concert series is held every Thursday from mid-June through mid-August. The concerts start at 12:15 p.m. and are about 45 minutes. Pack a lunch, bring a blanket and enjoy the Colorado sunshine.

 

 

Balloon Rodeo & Glow – held in early July each summer, this weekend event is a must see. The vibrant hot air balloons against the summer skies during the day or night events create an incredible photography opportunity and memorable visual.

 

 

Festivals & Events

There is a festival or event going on almost every weekend for every type of interest. From the Mustang Rally to the Rodeo, you’d need to be in five places at once to do it all. We’ve come up with a list by month and selected our favorite events through the summer below:

June

Steamboat Marathon and Half Marathon

- is the best way to kick off summer. Run alongside the roaring Elk River through the emerald green pastures on Country Road 129 with the snow-capped Rocky Mountains of Colorado all around and find out why the Steamboat Marathon was ranked as one of the “Top 10 Destination Marathons in North America.”

July

Kitchen & Garden Tour

- is a designer favorite of course. This is a self-guided tour inside Steamboat’s loveliest kitchens and gardens. Presented by Strings Music Festival where you'll start your morning with live music and a continental breakfast before heading to homes around Steamboat. VIP tickets include transportation with a Master Gardener, door-to-door service and a gourmet luncheon.

August

Steamboat Wine Festival

– not your average wine tasting festival, this annual event breaks off into many activities throughout the day. Choose from events that incorporate the Steamboat outdoors such as hiking and biking, as well as painting, farm to table pairings, and much more.

 

 

September

Literary Sojourn

- is an annual event in Steamboat that sells out within minutes of going online. An esteemed slate of authors and book lovers from all over the country gather for a presentation by award-winning writers who share the stories and inspiration behind their exceptional books held at String Music Festival.

 

Shopping & Drinking

These things go hand in hand, don’t they? Both can be relaxing or exhilerating and the design team certainly appreciates a good sale and happy hour. This list combines the best of shopping and drinking options.

Farmer’s Market

– we love strolling the market each week for fresh produce and handcrafted goods. The market runs each Saturday from 9am-2pm from June through September.

This is a great place to stop for morning coffee and a pastry, or lunch and live music.

 

 

Sunset Happy Hour

– after a day of shopping, take a relaxing ride up the gondola to incredible sunset views from Thunderhead Lodge. Bring your season ski pass and you ride for free, otherwise $15. This weekly event is held mid-July through September, featuring live music and sunset selfie moments.

Art in the Park

– a weekend filled with unique vendors and artists from the surrounding areas who showcase their artwork, sculptures and other handicrafts. This is a great shopping event to source artwork for your Steamboat home.

 

 

Steamboat Breweries

– Check out a couple of our favorite breweries for our recommended brews:

o   Butcherknife – Rob’s Blond or Buzzcock

o   Storm Peak – Mad Creek or JOON Kombucha brewed in Fort Collins

o   Mountain Tap – Passion Pedal or Mountain Macaroon

 

Relaxing Activities on the Water

We may not be located oceanside, but the surrounding river, lakes and hot springs could be considered comparable in our minds. There are plenty of activities to do on or near the water.

Yampa River Botanic Park

- had to fit on our list somewhere! This relaxing waterside activity is free and open to the public from sunrise to sunset. Stroll the gardens and find a patch of shade to share a picnic.

For more information about Yampa River Botanic Park, visit their website: www.yampariverbotanicpark.com

 

Paddle Boarding

– one of our favorite water sports! Rent or purchase your own Paddle Board, supplied and made locally. Paddle down the Yampa or enjoy a more leisurely outing at Fetcher’s Pond or the surrounding lakes in Stagecoach or Steamboat Lake.

Rent: Paddleboard Adventure Company

Buy: Hala Gear

Hot Springs

– venture out to Strawberry Park for a relaxing soak or stay close to town at Old Town Hot Springs – fully equipped with waterslides, lounging decks and BBQ grills.

We also enjoy an early morning workout or group fitness class at the fitness center inside.

Tubing the Yampa River

– relax on a mostly lazy river cruise through town in the comfort of an inflatable tube, available to rent and includes a shuttle service.

This is one of our favorite summertime activities to cool off and spend time with friends. 

For more information on tube rentals - visit the Backdoor Sports website: www.backdoorsports.com

 

Hiking & Biking

We enjoy an early morning hike with our four-legged friends and then hit the trails on two wheels. Electric, Mountain or Road Bike – there are so many ways to enjoy the surrounding hiking and biking trails.

Core Trail – the easiest path from one side of town to the other. Rent a Pedego Electric Bike and cruise with ease along the path or to the base of the other scenic trails.

Points of Interest and Activities Accessible from the Trail

 

Fish Creek Falls – a gorgeous destination to view the falls or hike even further to Long Lake, about a 13 mile trek round-trip.

Spring Creek – an easy trail for hikers and bikers with generous patches of shade and well maintained terrain.

Steamboat Bike Park – offers a variety of experience levels from easy to extreme with the option to downhill only after loading the gondola. Hikers enjoy the feat of climbing to Thunderhead or Four Points, 9.716 ft. above sea level. Bring lots of water for yourself and your pup.

Emerald Mountain – a great trail to hike with the pups, or bike on trails ranging from easy to difficult.

Other Mentionable to-do’s:

Chief Theater

– this venue was built in 1926 and is continues to entertain the community from locally organized performances, to outsourced musicians and entertainers from around the country.

Rumor Designs is a proud supporter of The Chief Theater and our lead designer Valerie also serves on the board for this non-profit organization.

The Rumor Team also performed last winter at the Annual Lip Sync/Air Band Fundraiser.

For Information about the Chief Theater and Events Schedule, visit their website: www.chieftheater.com

 

Strings Music Festival

- presents performances of classical music, jazz, rock, country, bluegrass, world rhythms and many other genres every summer providing the perfect date night outing.

Rumor Designs is a proud supporter of Strings Music Festival, find us in the annual program.

Steamboat Movement Festival

– held during the same weekend as Wine Fest, this is transformative four-day experience of Consciously Connecting through movement, music, and the great outdoors, while showcasing Steamboat’s talented community of movement teachers, speakers, musicians, and artists.

Yampa River Festival

– held during the first week of June, this event promises a fun-filled weekend for the whole family. The weekend kicks off with the Fish Creek race Friday evening. Saturday events are at Charlie's Hole at 13th Street with downriver races, freestyle competitions, the SUP Cup, crazy river dog contest, tubing and raft races and more. A slalom race wraps up the weekend on Sunday.

We hope you are able to utilize this curated list of activities that should keep you busy for the entire summer. Let us know if we missed your favorite or you've found a new gem not mentioned here. Thanks for reading and sharing!

Mother's Day for the Steamboat Mom
Mud Season Exodus

Mud Season Exodus

­The Steamboat Mom is unlike any other woman in town. She has more hats in her closet than anyone can imagine. From her active lifestyle to her practical taste, she exudes confidence even when life throws her a curve ball. She manages to be an active member in the community, and a role model for her children. She leads by example in everything she does, from what she eats and feeds her family to how she balances her work, family and social life. And like all moms around the world, she has an innate ability to make a house feel like home.

We can appreciate the talent mothers possess for setting this mood as home decor is our specialty. Clearly this feeling goes beyond decor and no matter what home looks like to you, the feeling of home is undeniable. We have a few ideas of ways to show your appreciation for Mom and the home she has built for her family. These items were selected with the Steamboat Mom in mind, to compliment and enhance her home.

 

4. Selenite Stone to match Mom's Magnetic Energy. 5. Upgrade Mom's Tablescape with This Stylish Server Set. 6. Ski House aromatics for the Steamboat Home.

Moms should be celebrated everyday, and with Mother’s Day just around the corner, we are happy to have this designated time to say “Thank You!” Thank you for everything you have done for us. Although everyday isn’t perfect through the eyes of a mother and the house isn't always HGTV ready, the memories we keep as children are truly special moments in life.

Transformation Tuesday: Bear Claw

Location, location, location. That was pretty much all this slope side condo had to offer. We gutted the entire space and re-imagined what could be. The design is contemporary sleek from real hardwood floors to faux steel beams which all help to achieve this look and feel of slope-side chic.

A few of our favorite amenities include the automated wet bar, located to the right of the kitchen in the dining room area. The bar is controlled by remote to lower a top shelf selection of liquor. We love the additional master bedroom fireplace and the 3Form privacy panel and custom closet in the Jr. Master Bath. You would never know you were inside one of the oldest condominium buildings in Steamboat Springs.

Living Room After

Living Room After

Living Room Before

Living Room Before

Living Room After

Living Room After

Kitchen After

Kitchen After

Kitchen After: Wet Bar Addition

Kitchen After: Wet Bar Addition

Kitchen Before

Kitchen Before

Kitchen After

Kitchen After

Kitchen Inspiration Photo

Kitchen Inspiration Photo

Dining Room After

Dining Room After

Dining Room Before

Dining Room Before

Dining Room After

Dining Room After

Bathroom Before

Bathroom Before

Bathroom After

Bathroom After

Bathroom After: Built in closest system with 3form privacy panel For more photos from this project, click below:

Bathroom After: Built in closest system with 3form privacy panel

 

For more photos from this project, click below:

Bear Claw
DIY: Terrarium

Spring Terrarium - inspiration for an off-season activity.

In Steamboat Springs, our off seasons are affectionately referred to as “Mud Season”. It’s a quiet time of year where the busy wave of tourism has died down and locals either vacate for greener, drier grass or withstand the gray skies and muddy patches to enjoy the silence. In this silence, interior designers also enjoy the change of pace. We actually do Spring Clean our office and homes, and revamp for the upcoming busy summer of home and garden.

In celebration of Mud Season, we encourage you to play in the mud! Or just a small amount of it, by designing and building your own terrarium. We love these DIY terrariums because you can nurture a small ecosystem with a sense of accomplishment and enjoy it for the beauty that is simplistic, natural décor. For the little ones, this off-season activity can be extremely fulfilling and a fun learning experience for the whole family.

If your mud season includes a passport to Mexico, try this simple recipe for a modern terrarium that requires no watering. While you're soaking up the sun and fun, this zero maintenance terrarium will be waiting for you back in Steamboat!

Modern Terrarium Recipe:

$5 - white pebbles             +

$20 - ball candle                +

$35-90 Terrarium

Fear of Decorating + Tips to Overcome It
This client used our last tip to achieve the result above.

This client used our last tip to achieve the result above.

Believe it or not, there are some people in this world who have a fear of decorating! We believe this stems from a place where most fears are rooted, in change. It's not uncommon to fear change especially in your private, personal space. You've kept up this "look" for a long time, you're not about to change it all on a whim. We get it, change is hard for everyone, however, as we evolve, our homes should too. We are here to help with a few tips and steps you can take now to clear the clutter, streamline your style and finally overcome your fear of decorating.

You might have gathered, it is our job and passion to assist homeowners in decorating and re-decorating their homes. For those who find terror in the task, our design team jumps at the opportunity to ease this seemingly life-changing transition. We advise our clients to fear not, as we are here to help. If hiring a professional isn’t number one on your list, here are some other easy, low cost options to overcome a fear of decorating:

  • Start with a blank slate. Your space is piled with books and nick-knacks and sure it's "tidy" enough but how do you really know what you're working with? If you haven't read Marie Kondo's "The Art of Tidying up" we'll give you the cliffs notes: go through every single shelf, drawer and corner of the room and ask yourself if these items truly bring you joy. If they do, put them in a box labeled "Home Decor" that you'll use later to accessorize your new space. If they don't, donate, gift or toss!
  • Create an old school vision board. Tear out pages from magazines and place sticky notes on what you love; specific color schemes, furniture styles, patterns, accessories, and architectural details. 
  • Get a Houzz account! Inspiration is at your fingertips with Houzz, Pinterest and endless free online resources. Save your pictures in galleries labeled by room and take the time to write meaningful captions on why you pinned the photo you’re saving. These freebie apps and websites can help reveal what style suits you best. Before you know it, you’re a “mid-century modern” maniac or a “shabby chic” shoo-in!
  • Start small with color. Ready to take the next step? You’ve pinned a wall color you love but are scared to use it. Consider using a piece of art you love, small accessories, or accent pillows in this specific color. These are all small ways to bring in color without making a drastic change or breaking the budget. Leave these color accents in the room for a few days to help ease the visual transition. Also, remember paint is paint, try it. If you don’t like it after a few days, paint over it!
  • Break out your "Home Decor" Box. When you're ready to accessorize, use those items that you love and are meaningful to you such as artifacts, family heirlooms, children’s art, or items from travels. If you use what you love and what inspires you, there is no fear in that!
  • Just do it. If you have a decorating idea but you’re unsure, just go for it! You will never know until you try it, if it doesn’t work then it doesn’t work, but it could be a grand idea and before your know it, you’re pretty good at this whole decorating thing.
  • Hire a designer. Yes that's where we come in! “If you think it’s expensive to hire a professional, wait until you hire an amateur”. Check references in your local area on Houzz.com or work with an i-designer and meet via FaceTime to save time and money in your design contract.

We've been called decorators, magicians, therapists and hand-holders - we're also pretty fearless when it comes to home decor. Sometimes you have to jump in with both feet.

Rumor Design + LAFCO House & Home

For each room of the home, we've created a look and feel that pairs with the modern home and unique scents of each LAFCO candle. All of these home accessories and decor can be found right in our retail showroom at 345 Lincoln. Ave in downtown Steamboat Springs, CO.

"LAFCO candles are hand poured in the USA and optimized to yield a 90-hour burn. Formulated with a specialty high soy content wax which burns cleaner than paraffin. Made with natural essential oil-based fragrances that burns richly and evenly, filling the entire space with fragrance. Each candle is made in a hand-blown art glass vessel whose sophisticated lines and vibrant colors will compliment any space, long after the wax has burned." $65/ea.

Ski House

Feu de Bois - Woody, smoky and warm: Fresh Pine provides a crisp opening to this cozy woody blend that beautifully portrays the warmth and relaxing mood of sitting by a blazing fire. Patchouli, Virginia Cedar and precious Sandalwood form a potent heart, as smoky Leather Accord and hints of Vanilla and Frankincense bring a comforting finish.

Ski Pillow - Reminiscent of a day on the slopes, Meet You at the Lodge will transform your home into the perfect snow-covered retreat. Block printed on burlap, zipper closure, cloud faux down pillow insert. Made in the USA. 18"x18" $95

Brass Antlers - Bring the outside in with these decorative sheds. They add a little flash and a lot of interest to any space of your Ski House. S/2 $79

Powder Room

Duchess Peony - Sparkling floral: A lush bouquet of silken Peony Blossoms and sophisticated pink Rose is the centerpiece for this exquisite mix, which is at once delicate and majestic. Rain Mist gilds glistening Cassis Berries, framed by a field of soft Camellia and powdery Floral Musk for a subtle, feminine finish.

La Femme Baignoire - A chic, stunning adaptation of a French sculptor's beloved work in a biodegradable, eco-friendly stone composite. Place "The Bathing Lady" contemporary figurine in a high-profile spot of your powder room for maximum visibility and admiration. $250

Purple Orchid - Orchid Phalaenopsis in Glass Ball brings beauty and color into any space. 11" W x 12" H. $99

Meditation Room

Mint Tisane - Aromatic and Fresh: Fresh and revitalizing with a spa-like mood. Citrus notes dry down to reveal the natural aromatic heart of Spearmint, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Basil, Anise, Sage and Bay Leaf. A spicy blend of Ginger and Clove add depth and distinction.

Selenite Terminated Stone - Found in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, selenite is a naturally occurring salt mineral, formed millions of years ago. These cubes of selenite are slightly tapered to a point and partially polished. The point concentrates the energy and directs it upwards. $215

Geometric Wool Pillow - Charcoal and ivory diamond pattern woven in multi contents with cotton back fabric. 13"x21". Made in India. $75

Penthouse

Champagne - Sparkling, clean citrus: A juicy mélange of crisp Grapefruit, Orange pulp, Mandarin Zest, and Tuscan Lemon sets the tone for this vibrant fragrance that evokes a luxurious and rarified mood. Effervescent Ginger adds a bubbly sparkle to the bouquet of Rose and Neroli, and Verbena sustains a clean freshness in the drydown.

Atom Pendant Chandelier - Modern 9-light pendant with smoked grey glass globes to set the mood in a sophisticated space. $500

Earl's Court Throw - Drawing on the spirit of some of our favorite London spots, the luxurious, washable cotton blend of our Earls Court throw brings a touch of that wonderful city’s sophistication and vitality into your Penthouse decor. $139

Kitchen

Cilantro Orange - Crisp and energizing: A burst of tart Orange and succulent Mandarin pulp blend beautifully with energizing Petitgrain and crisp Avocado essence to portray a dewy freshness on a shimmering background of aromatic Cilantro and iced Lemon Verbena.

Aldo Marble Cheese Board - Elegant rounded corners and beveled edges distinguish this modern white marble and sheesham wood table accessory. 10" Square. $63

Decorative Wood Bowl - Arrange fresh fruit more invitingly in this slanted wood bowl. $89

Office

Rosemary Eucalyptus - Aromatic and invigorating: sweet, tangy Juniper Berry and aromatic Garden Sage dance with fresh-cut Rosemary and vitalizing Eucalyptus. Dark, sensual Patchouli creates an earthy, woody edge and spicy Elemi instills balance and a grounding effect.

Darrow Leather Ottoman - The ottoman, re-invented. Cunningly shaped and distressed, flatstock iron supports a spare-yet-comfortable cushion in aged, top grain leather. $1,225

Faux Succulent Set - four gorgeous succulents in glass cubes add color and life into your work space. S/4 $229

Wine Room

Blackberry Pomegranate - Fruity and woody: An unexpected mix of Black Apple, Black Pomegranate and Bordeaux notes create a lush fruity sensation. Lemon, Cypress and Black Eucalyptus give aromatic facets, while Jasmine and Ylang add a subtle floral caress. A foundation of Patchouli, Black Cedar, aged Oakwood and smoky Vetiver provide depth.

Tea Light Holders - A tribute to the iconic Harry Bertoia 'sound sculptures' of the 1960's, these deconstructed pieces of functional sculpture hold tapered or votive candles. S/3 $149

Kate Spade Tassel Pillow - This linen pillow with lush tassels and an airy lattice-work border punches up the color and comfort quotient of your wine room with panache. 20" x 20". $143

Master Bedroom

Chamomile Lavender - Relaxing, aromatic floral: Warm and enveloping top notes of sparkling Bergamot and calming Chamomile melt into a dramatic heart of Lavender and fresh Eucalyptus, creating a feeling of relaxation and well-being. Smoky Patchouli is enhanced by hints of aromatic Sage, Honey Flower and Rosemary for a smooth, sensual finish.

600 TC Egyptian Cotton Sheets - Beautiful single-ply sateen weave. Long-staple authentic Egyptian cotton. Ultra-deep pockets. Single-ply yarns produce a true thread count. $220-$250

White Orchid - Bring calm and cool colors into your master bedroom with this Orchid Phalaenopsis in a patina glass bowl. 11wx6dx17h $159

How Interior Design can help you achieve your New Year’s Resolutions

The coming new year inspires us all to look back and evaluate the successes and failures of the past 12 months. This is a healthy, natural cycle whether you resolve to make changes or simply assess the past in order to continue to move forward.

365 days seems like such a small amount of time to get anything substantial done, and without a plan of action - forget it. Lucky for you, the Rumor design team has come up with a few ways to help with your proposed resolutions. Instead of just listing off the usual suspects, we’ve come up with ways to actually resolve this ongoing list of fair weathered wishes.

Eat Healthy

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We all resolve to eat healthy, don’t we? It’s just one of those resolutions that stay on the top of our list. Especially in our active, health conscious town, we’ve come to realize healthy eating is more of a lifestyle than an actual “to-do”.

At the core of healthy eating and at the heart of the home, your kitchen will set you up for the greatest success. Believe it or not, all kitchens – big or small can be designed, or re-designed in a way that will maximize your foodie-fueled mission.

Let us help assess your space and we might even inspire you to morph your 2017 resolution to “remodel kitchen”.

 

 

 

Workout

Whether you workout at home, in the gym or on the mountain – our suggestion for success in this area is organization. Closet organization in your bedroom, mudroom or garage will help you better manage your workout/sporting gear for all of your favorite activities.

Now this may seem like a stretch, no pun intended, but organization in general will help you to achieve most of your resolutions. If working out or staying organized is the goal, we can help. Closet solutions are easily visualized after we assess the space and provide you with 3D renderings of what should be your new resolution, “closet/mudroom redo”.

 

Get More Sleep

This one is pretty easy to predict, but in case you haven’t had enough sleep to think of it – you might need new bedroom furniture, sheets or even a complete rearrangement of your space. We believe in the basics of simplistic modern design - even if your style is more rustic. Get the junk out of your room asap! Simplify your life and your sleeping space with less clutter. We have all of the remedies at Rumor, including an 8-person design team to expedite your resolutions of getting more sleep into “simplify my sleep space”.

Renovate the House

Well there’s a lovely idea, and we didn’t even suggest it! If the long-awaited or even dreaded process of finally remodeling your home is on your 2017 resolution list, we can help and help to make it a smooth process. Whether it’s one room, your entire home, a remodel or something you’re building from scratch – there is no better bunch of designers than the Rumor Team.

Next Steps:

  • Call us at 970.819.9721 to schedule your 1 hour complimentary consultation - *for new clients.
  • Look through our signature services and put down a retainer to jump start your project.
  • Sign up for a free Houzz account and start pinning what inspires you - we'll take a look and discuss the direction of your project.
  • Sit back and relax, we've got your remodel covered. By next year, you'll be resolving to sing our praises each day in your new space.

Cheers to you in 2017 - may you design a life you love!

What's up with Wallpaper

Do people still use wallpaper these days? The short answer is yes, but please, let us explain.

We know that wallpaper has scarred homeowners in the past with outdated patterns and adhesives making the entire experience cumbersome and dreaded. Interior white washing can be attributed to the overwhelming tone set by wallpaper trends of the 50’s through the 80’s.

In our already white washed exterior surrounding, known as winter in the Rocky Mountains, us alpine dwellers need to bring a little more color and life into our homes. Yes, interior texturing can be achieved in many ways without wallpaper, but don’t pass up the option too quickly.

Today's selection of wallpaper creates a world of design options with endless amounts of styles and textures, from organic fibers and reclaimed wood, to handmade patterns and colors.

We are proud advocates of safe wallpaper practice in the right space and application.

If you’re beginning to consider the idea of wallpaper for your home, remember that we are here to help. Start by selecting an accent wall in your home, meaning one of the four walls, or even the ceiling that could provide you with a little more personality if given the opportunity. Don’t be afraid to DIY - or if your patterns are more definite like the geometric wallpaper we have used below, consider hiring a professional.

Wallpaper can be bold and create interest in any space without overdoing it.

Check out our projects in progress for examples where wallpaper is used to set the tone for our relaxed lifestyle in a sophisticated way.

We have seen a trend in metallic shining through simple patterns and textures. This gold geometric outline creates dimension complimented by other geometric patterns in the space.

We have seen a trend in metallic shining through simple patterns and textures. This gold geometric outline creates dimension complimented by other geometric patterns in the space.

This textured wallpaper embellished by gold rivets adds interest in a powder bath. The hemp material can be wiped gently to clean and is a great option in a minimal use area.

This textured wallpaper embellished by gold rivets adds interest in a powder bath. The hemp material can be wiped gently to clean and is a great option in a minimal use area.

Another great option in wall covering is a thin wood material that can be applied in any pattern such as herringbone for a designer touch. We use Stikwood to create accent walls with a real wood look and feel. This product acts like wallpaper in an …

Another great option in wall covering is a thin wood material that can be applied in any pattern such as herringbone for a designer touch. We use Stikwood to create accent walls with a real wood look and feel. This product acts like wallpaper in an easy to apply product with a 10 year adhesive guarantee.

 

 

 

Valerie StaffordComment
Faux, for Real?

When you think of faux plants and flowers, do you think "cheapy plastic?" We used to think that until we discovered sources we love for gorgeous silk arrangements that look and feel real, for real!

Why faux? Organic elegance, understated chic, and unexpected style with minimal maintenance.

Not everyone has a green thumb, and even those who are talented in this area can appreciate their beauty, no matter the season! Our vendors have an immeasurable love of all things floral and a desire to replicate them in the most representational way possible. Their collections are created with the finest hand crafted quality and botanical accuracy.

We're no botanists however, we are designers and can assure you that faux arrangements can be done well, no matter your style or space.

Try it for yourself! We've just selected delicate peonies, orchids and cherry blossom arrangements for you in our retail showroom. Just because it's Fall outside, doesn't mean your decor has to wither inside. These expertly curated concepts provide inspiration and a better visual of how new faux florals will fit in your space.

Take a look below at our past design projects where faux pieces inject color and life into each room. Plants and produce also shine in spaces like the kitchen and bath.

 

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More Faux Inspo:

Shop our Showroom:

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Rumor Showroom Spotlight: Selenite Terminated Stone

“Be a ruthless editor of what you allow into your home. Ask yourselves, “What does this object mean to me?” Nate Berkus.

Here is a beautiful example of a decorative piece you can feel good about adding to your home collection. Regardless of whether you believe in its powers or not, selenite is a beautiful natural object to live with. Each piece is unique with natural inclusions, crystal formations, opacity and dimensions.

Named after Selene, goddess of the Moon, selenite comes with many mythological stories. It is believed to possess unique cleansing powers, providing clarity within its environment and cleaning other crystals that are placed on it. It radiates white light and removes negative and unpure energy in its surroundings. In crystal healing therapy, it is calming, providing mental clarity and objectivity.

Found in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, selenite is a naturally occurring salt mineral, formed millions of years ago. These cubes of selenite are slightly tapered to a point and partially polished. The point concentrates the energy and directs it upwards.

Shop the Showroom for selenite and more unique pieces like this.

How They are Made

Clay-walled farming villages dot the surreal landscape. Selenite occurs in narrow veins which can only be excavated from hand-dug caves. The most precious, pure large crystals are buried deep and the miners will go in as far as 200 feet to extract the minerals without any modern equipment – only a pick, shovel and wheelbarrow. The work is painstaking and becomes more dangerous as the depth increases. Once a vein is exhausted, the mine is refilled with the original terrain to ensure stability of the mountainside.

The raw stones are taken from the mines to a warehouse in a local village, then trucked to a workshop for processing by skilled craftspeople. Selenite is beautiful in its raw state where all the inclusions and optic striations are visible. It’s also hand polished and shaped with simple tools into a variety of geometric forms. The soft texture of the stone allows it to be polished to a satin-like shine.

Info & Images of Selenite provided by our vendor resource.

Info & Images of Selenite provided by our vendor resource.

Vegas Market Trends Summer 2016

Cozy Fringe

Fringe and Poms are everywhere right now from jewelry to clothing and now on throws and shams. The cozy fringe we've seen is fun and playful adding a little something to your everyday blanket or pillow. Kate Spade designed a bright line of fringed throws for one of our favorite lines Jaipur, which we were able to touch and feel in person. Dress up a guest room or just your living room sofa with these easy accessories.

Charred Wood

Charred Wood looks like the aftermath of an accidental wildfire, however this effect is a carefully designed finish and is showing up in some very creative forms. From furniture to decorative pieces, the charred wood look is rustic yet refined. This layered accent wall we noticed at Gold Leaf Design Group was painted white yet still showcases the unique charred texture adding an element of interest to any space. The lacquered table from Palacek is a beautiful example of how designers are crafting with charred and petrified wood allowing you see the beauty of the wood without damaging it through use.

Transforming Furniture

This unique leather sofa piece from Dovetail transforms easily into a tete' a tete' - needless to say, we had a lot of fun with this one! The kitchen island from Four Hands extends to seat an extra two to five guests and works great for small spaces or in homes of those who are only occasional entertainers. Another great piece we witnessed in action utilized automation with the click of a button to transform a sofa into a bed without the cumbersome mechanics of your typical pull-out sofa bed - genius! We noticed a lot of other cool mechanics in the sofa world, if you're interested in hearing more about it, come and chat with any of our designers.

 

Upgraded Style & Function in Outdoor Furniture

These funky wingback patio chairs were not only super stylish, but pretty comfortable as well. The elastic cord is a big trend in outdoor furniture and comes in every color imaginable. The glowing stools and planter pots from Zuo Mod were definitely eye catching and fun for summer nights. We also really loved the look and functionality of Seasonal Living's new line of cordless ceramic and stone outdoor lighting.

Interior Design Stars

Yes, we met the Property Brothers! Jonathan and Drew traveled all the way from their home in Vegas to the Vegas Market for their book release Dream Home. The Scott Brothers towered over us at 6'5" and we spent a wonderful 2 minutes with them!

Shea McGee on the other hand, spent a little more time with our team chatting about the business of Interior Design and her quick launch into success and minor celebrity. She owns the design firm Studio McGee out of Salt Lake City, Utah - a studio we adore and follow on social media.

Last but not least, Joanna Gaines of Fixer Upper on HGTV - while not present at Market, had a big presence at Loloi - a company we love and use in our projects. Joanna worked with Loloi to design a special line of rugs and pillows from her collection Magnolia Homes.

Recap!

The Rumor Team learned a lot at Vegas Market and we were able to bring back a few fun things we really loved. Our new line of sheets and pillows from Malouf just came in and are out on the shelves ready to take home. We also brought back a few gorgeous decorative pieces from Accent Decor. Stop by our showroom to see all of the goodies we've collected for you Steamboat!

The Grand reOpening of Rumor Design + reDesign

A BIG thank you to everyone who joined us last week for the Grand reOpening of our new showroom. We moved to our new space on Lincoln in January and have been working hard to get the place Rumor ready.

The new showroom is complete with Fabric + Furniture, Tile + Bath, Flooring + Cabinetry plus our client meeting area and open concept work spaces. We do complete 3D modeling and rendering, floor plans, elevation drawings and tile design. And, of course, we still offer the soft finishes as well from drapery to bedding and beyond.

We are usually working on a variety of residential and commercial projects, which means we have been growing internally as well. There are now 8 people in our office; 5 full time designers, 2 part time designers and a studio manager - if you haven't yet, please come meet the team!

Cassie, Leslie, Katie, Lindsey, Valerie, Sierra, Bruce, Becca & Abby

Cassie, Leslie, Katie, Lindsey, Valerie, Sierra, Bruce, Becca & Abby

What a great turn out, we packed the house!

What a great turn out, we packed the house!

4 Green Interior Design Materials We Love
Rumor Team going green!

Rumor Team going green!

“Going Green” certainly isn’t a new term - yet we as consumers are starting to recognize the importance and long-term benefits of the current green trend in interior design. This general awareness has finally impacted the decisions of manufacturers resulting in more innovative materials available to us today.

You may have already gone green with your choice of household products and cleaners, which is a great first step, but now it’s time to consider the home itself. Have you ever thought about which design products in your home effect your immediate environment? Probably not, but we’re not here to scare you. Just be aware that even your floor and wall covering can drastically effect your personal ecosystem and air quality - something that can be taken for granted within your own home.

Our goals for sustainable design are to advocate safe and sustainable products, sourced locally when possible. To reduce overall impact, emissions and improve indoor air quality, in turn positioning our clients to live in a safe environment with long-term health benefits and energy savings.

In our respective field, we are able to identify the manufacturers and materials that meet the standards of green living to help execute sustainable design principles for a variety of projects. Whether you’re remodeling your space or building from scratch – interior design materials for all areas of your home can be sourced from green minded companies.

We are often faced with a common theme of confusion from our clients: "Why would I spend that much money on a green product when I can find a regular product for half the price elsewhere?" Our response is unanimous; "you get what you pay for". Inexpensive materials are such because of the quality of construction and labor put into creating the product. They are often laden with chemicals and harmful off-gassing properties. This doesn’t mean that sustainable design is outrageously unaffordable or design in bad taste.

In fact, green design must still be good design and that is why we have selected a few our favorite (green) things to inspire and help you make changes with sustainable design in mind. Treat this as an opportunity to design or redesign with greater knowledge of the products going into your home. You should feel good about the floor you walk on, the light you flick on every night and be at ease when spending time around your kitchen island and counter tops.

Lighting

We can’t be the first source you’ve heard this from, but it is time to make the switch to light-emitting diode or LED bulbs. It is well known that LED bulbs have a longer lifetime than the average household bulb, eliminating the need for frequent replacement. These bulbs contain no mercury, lead or glass and they produce less heat. LED bulbs also save more energy with reduced power consumption and emit light more efficiently and directly to the desired location. Although the downside to LED bulbs can be the upfront costs, you will save more in the long-term and can slowly integrate bulb by bulb until every light in your home is up to standard.

We love the look of an Edison bulb for a funky vintage touch in a modern lamp or chandelier. We source our bulbs from a local shop – Light Works of Steamboat and use them in our showroom and in our own homes. Try the Satco Vintage LED bulb to achieve a unique look in any modern light fixture.

Wall Covering

There are many options for wall covering from zero emissions paint to wallpaper made from recycled materials. From a design standpoint in a mountain modern setting, we love the idea of adding an accent wall made from reclaimed barnwood. Recently we moved our studio from 4th Street to the front of Lincoln Ave. We pulled up all of our gorgeous wood flooring at the old studio and re-purposed it in our new showroom as an accent wall.

Installing a custom barnwood siding can really add up after labor costs are involved. For you DIYers we recommend Stikwood, an easy to install product made from real reclaimed wood. This innovative product allows you to be the designer by customizing easy to cut pieces in any pattern and in almost any area of your home. All Stikwood products are responsibly sourced and FSC certified plus they only use European oil finishes and VOC-free paints.

Flooring

Hans from Provenza sharing the latest styles with the Rumor design team

Hans from Provenza sharing the latest styles with the Rumor design team

At the base of our homes, flooring installation has proven to be a harmful process. Whether it’s carpet or wood covering – unless you know these products in your home are reclaimed or certified green in some way – you may be at risk to chemical off-gassing. Don’t start to rip up the carpet just yet, off-gassing typically occurs within the first year of its installation. So for your next flooring remodel we’d like to make you aware of suitable replacement options.

These green products are typically a larger upfront expense, however our resources have comparable price points depending on the style and finish. We turn to The Carpet Shoppe for the latest green carpet technology and feature a green friendly wood flooring brand right here in our showroom. Provenza provides a wide range of hardwood floor products with a variety of finishes for any palate. Their ecotech collections are made compliant by the CARB and LACEY act green standards.

Counter tops

We are fortunate that counter top trends have been focused on natural stones and less of man made products – however, Lapitec is a special combination of natural minerals fired into many textures and finishes that can withstand extreme temperatures, impact and scratches. The material is also non porous and anti bacterial. The benefits of this product help to reduce other potential hazards in the heart of your home where family meals are cooked and shared.

Additionally, Lapitec uses renewable energy in its manufacturing – thanks to the 13,000 sq./m of solar panels fitted to the roof of Lapitec’s headquarters in Treviso, Italy and the company does not use any raw materials obtained through petroleum processing. We also feature this product in our showroom and love to share samples with those looking for something a little different than the average stone counter top. Lapitec works for any room of the home, and can even be used on exteriors at around the same price point as a stone with less added benefit.

Happy Earth Day!

We hope you have found some inspiration in this blog post and learned a few things about green interior design. In celebration of Earth Day – we felt it was important to inform our friends and family about the importance of green design and products available to you today. We are here for you on your next home project or remodel, stop by and see us soon!

The Designer Scoop on Gallery Walls

Transform your space with an easy DIY gallery wall.

What is a gallery wall, you ask? A "gallery wall" is a space on the wall where you organize important memorabilia in a sophisticated arrangement that can be a focal point in any room or corner of your home. There are many ways to create a gallery wall, using a variety of subjects. You don't have to be a designer to pull this off, however - we will offer some inspiration photos and tips to get you started!

A gallery wall improves the empty space on your walls, or can clean up preexisting clutter. Some sense of consistency is required when choosing pieces for your space - whether that stems from the artwork and photos or the frames, size and shape, the pieces should all feel like they can connect as one larger piece of art.

Gallery walls make sense of random photos, frames, posters, art and even old clocks or trinkets. A photo ledge is a great way to layer your pieces and create a line of consistency.

Gallery walls bring a fun ambiance to the kids room and provides an opportunity to showcase their talents in an organized way.

Don't overthink it and don't overdo it - just allow the pieces to come together! Try and find the common thread throughout your prints, consider going through old photos and having them resized.

Spring is a great time to refresh your space, so if you already have a gallery wall - try changing it up! As you evolve, your surroundings should too, incorporate new pieces or selections that inspire you and your family.

You don't need to break the bank to achieve these designer looks, and remember if you ever need help - stop by the studio to chat with our design team, we are always here to help.

photos found on Pinterest, you can follow Rumor Designs at www.pinterest.com/rumordesigns