your guide to the perfect outdoor setup
The outdoors serve as a sanctuary where nature and solitude converge, making it essential to reflect on the ambiance of your front patio or backyard. An increasing number of clients are creating outdoor areas that are not only comfortable and inviting but also durable. The primary consideration should be how you plan to use your outdoor space. Often, we discover that clients desire an intimate outdoor dining experience rather than contending with crowds for a seat under an umbrella during the summer months. Incorporating an outdoor dining area significantly enhances the aesthetic of your outdoor environment, yet there are numerous other possibilities to explore, such as a lounge set complete with a fireplace or an outdoor bar featuring a built-in grill and beverage cooler! Our preferred approach to crafting an outdoor experience involves designing a clearly defined area that feels as comfortable as an extension of your home.
Our 9 favorite shades of green we would use over and over!
Millennial gray dominated for many years, but we have transitioned from cool tones to colors that evoke a more natural ambiance. Green is one of these colors, and its presence has been increasingly noticeable over the past couple of years.
Let’s explore some of our personal favorites at ALD that we would gladly use repeatedly! Depending on your aesthetic, you may prefer Duck Green by Farrow & Ball or Rock Garden by Sherwin Williams for a more dramatic, moody, or gothic atmosphere. For a coastal or shabby chic appearance, we recommend painting your walls, accent pieces or custom cabinetry with Opal Essence by Benjamin Moore, Rainwashed by Sherwin Williams, or Cheppelle Green by Farrow & Ball! A farmhouse-style home would exude a warm and inviting ambiance with Coastal Plain, Privilege Green, or Basil by Sherwin Williams, while a contemporary modern home would look stunning with splashes of Chappelle Green by Farrow & Ball or Basil by Sherwin Williams.
The specific shade of green significantly influences the atmosphere of the space. For optimal decision-making, evaluate your paint colors under the lighting available in your area or the lighting you intend to use!
Is white Oak timeless or trendy? We asked the pro’s!
Although it may currently appear quite "timeless," the white oak cabinetry will inevitably fade from popularity, much like our white shaker cabinets from 2020. While they are undeniably beautiful and create an inviting atmosphere, they are, in fact, quite trendy.
White oak is not limited to cabinetry alone! Designers are incorporating it into floors, walls, ceilings, and even furniture selections.
An increasing number of individuals desire warmth in their homes as we gravitate towards earthy organic materials and color palettes. It feels instinctive to be surrounded by elements that evoke nature, promoting relaxation and transforming your home into a personal retreat rather than merely an extension of yourself.
Our recommendation for navigating the trend of white oak is to explore alternatives such as maple, cherry, or, for the adventurous, hickory! These woods are naturally lighter, and with the appropriate stain, you can achieve a similar soft warmth akin to that of natural white oak. Two enduring trends that have persisted since before the 1960s that you should contemplate for your kitchen are two-tone cabinets (featuring two different colors) or even painted cabinets.
people notice the smell of your Space!
I understand your thoughts… wait, what?! Indeed, it is one of the very first aspects that individuals notice upon entering a space. A space that is visually familiar to you will create a scent expectation, which is why many people are oblivious to the aroma of their own house.
One of my preferred and natural methods to invigorate an environment is to open some windows on a nice day to allow fresh air to circulate. Then you’re going to want to simmer a pot of water with cyour favorite natural scents like citrus fruits, cinnamon sticks, rosemary, lavendar, honey, mint leaves, basil leaves and even vanilla extrat. There is a plethora of options to experiment with!
Your environment is a significant reflection of you, and when it has a fresh scent, it feels revitalizing! Consequently, this also makes you feel remarkably refreshed as well.
What’s making your Home look cheap?
There are numerous straightforward methods to enhance the appearance of your space for your guests. The first suggestion I often provide is to contemplate applying a fresh coat of paint to your walls and baseboards. Additionally, you may not have considered this, as most people rarely look up, but replacing those old light fixtures will definitely improve the way your space feels! In line with this, your windows also might require an update, so ensure that your curtain rods are sturdy, your blinds are current, and your curtains are appropriately sized for your windows.
Lastly, I would like to address wall cords. Concealing any visible cords from your computer, television, or lamps will feel thoughtful and clean. In the design community, we have a strong aversion to clutter, so tidying up the shoes near the entrance and storing kitchen appliances out of sight will enhance the experience in your home. Implementing minor adjustments in your primary living areas will elevate the appearance of your home, transforming it from an ordinary residence into a clean, welcoming, elegant, and well-considered environment. I hope you find these suggestions beneficial!
Interior themes that everyone will Shift Towards in 2027!
Each year brings new design trends, and while we will discuss several of them, it is important to emphasize that your home should reflect your lifestyle and personality.
The primary trend for 2026 involves the use of medium to dark woods, moving away from the lighter woods that have been prevalent. For the 2027 forecast, there is a growing preference for richer and more textured wood materials. In addition, we continue to see the open layout concept that has been popular for an extended period. However, this does not imply that we need to erect walls in every room; rather, it suggests that we can define spaces through the use of architectural elements and interior materials. For instance, one might separate a ten-foot formal dining room from the kitchen while maintaining a six-foot wide entryway. This approach delineates the area without completely enclosing it.
For those aiming to remain trendy, this includes incorporating curves in decor, furniture, and even walls. However, it is important to note that arches are no longer in vogue. A stylish space in 2027 might feature monochromatic color washing, a curved sofa in the living room, and a transition from lighter woods to medium and darker wood tones. Additionally, incorporating texture is essential, as it contributes to a sense of being "lived in” and is all the rage moving into next year!
First time remodelers should read this!
Remodeling is a significant investment, making it crucial to fully comprehend what you are undertaking.
Being in the industry for over 5 years made us really think about how people have approached a remodel as first timers and what has or has not worked for them.
COMING JULY 27th