I had the most memorable shopping experience today! I walked into Alchemia Style, a little bungalow in River Oaks, and instantly felt the daily chatter of my to–do list slip away. I was greeted by two lovely ladies who are so passionate about what they do!
I asked, “okay, so where do I start?” and they immediately knew what to say and where to guide me. The experience is quite similar with interior design. New clients walk in asking, “Where do I start and how do I achieve the look I’m going for”?
…Image from @alchemiastyle
The Ensemble
The journey through home design selections is quite similar to trying on clothes in search of the perfect ensemble. You browse around looking for pieces that catch your eye and, with an almost involuntary motion, you reach out for ones that speak to you knowing that one of them must be THE ONE. Then you try them on. Some pieces work effortlessly and others simply look better on the hanger.
…Image from @alchemiastyle
Does it work for me?
Fortunately, the talented and knowledgeable associates at Alchemia Style not only study fashion trends, but they also understand what and how clothing should fit your body. They carefully direct you to items that fit you, in shape and size, as well as personal sense of style. You trust them and that trust makes the process so much easier.
…Image from @melaniekingdesigns
Creating stylish interiors is an even more complicated journey. And if you aren’t familiar with scale, product specifications, or how to work seamlessly within the architecture of your home, it can be an arduous journey at best. Enlisting the support of an expert saves you time, resources, and the headache that comes with full-home installation.
Here are 3 DIY examples and my reasons for avoiding them at all costs:
I Saw It On Instagram!
Instagram, Pinterest, Houzz, and design blogs are all amazing sources for inspiration. I prep all initial consultations with social media homework, asking them to share a few key pictures that they believe accurately depict their personal sense of style. Pictures offer designers a look into a client’s personality and can be a great kick-off to the project.
But I have to remind people that many of the published images they’re saving were not done in a day or even completed by one person. Exemplary design is the culmination of detail-oriented planning executed by skilled architects, designers, craftsmen, and artisans. Working with a designer is key because they have years of knowledge, ample resources, and the passion it takes to bring your vision to life.
…Image from @melaniekingdesigns
The space above is a nautical-inspired playroom we designed to include shiplap walls, beachy lighting, and durable slipcovers, because who doesn’t dream of seating that can stand up to any mess while still coordinating nicely with the room’s palette? Sharing inspiration images like this can be valuable as you work to communicate what you want to achieve, but none of this was designed in a day.
It Looked Great In The Store!
Have you ever spent the weekend perusing furniture stores, sitting on every perfectly styled sofa, only to bring it home and realize it simply won’t work? Yeah, we’ve all been there…especially when sale pricing is involved. Because, when something is on sale, we ignore the fact that it’s not deep enough to lay down on (says every husband I know), and that the fabric looks green in our living rooms when it was most definitely grey on the showroom floor…
I thought that piece would fit
When furnishing a home, it’s imperative that scale, fabric selections, and many other variables be taken into consideration. Many of these pieces are investment pieces you plan to have in your home for decades, so why rush the process or settle for something you don’t really love or for that matter, doesn’t fit? Seeking out the advice of an interior designer will save you from so many sad situations.
…Image from @melaniekingdesigns
Take a look at the desk and artwork in the girl’s bedroom above. In order for this setup to work, it takes furnishings, lighting, and art of a very specific dimension, and we often find that floor items don’t work – the scale, color, or finish you need may not be available and your space suddenly feels lackluster.
Professional interior designers offer you a thoughtfully planned space. The pattern and texture of the drapery complement the chandelier, the fuchsia velvet on the seat pays homage to the artwork, and the appropriate sizing of each piece pulls the whole look together handsomely.
Designer: Melanie King Designs
Builder: Cunningham
Photographer: Colleen Duffley
Stylist: Charlotte Safavi
Consider this an invitation to weave a bit of style into your own home, and if you’re looking for a professional who can help pull it all together, drop us a note at www.melaniekingdesigns.com or DM us at @melaniekingdesigns and we can schedule your consultation.