Inspiration in the Studio

How do we begin to describe the behind-the-scenes happenings in the design studio? The responsibilities and processes required to execute each project range from administrative to creative; from gritty to glamorous; from tedious to momentous. We dive deep with each client to understand their dreams, and then we allow the design to evolve until we bring that vision to life!

Today we are sharing the evolution of one client’s fireplace wall – from concept to reality.

We often work with builders and architects throughout the plan development phase of a project. We then move to space planning and furniture layouts. Our client was presented with three options for the living room in the these CAD plans.

The architectural details can make all the difference in a custom home. In this project, the fireplace was the focal point of the living room, so it had to be special. The design included built-in bookcases, cabinets with decorative hardware, and statement wall sconces.

After more decisions than we can count, we think the design evolved beautifully!

The greatest reward is seeing the look on a client’s face when their vision becomes reality. We are so grateful for clients who trust (and enjoy) the design process!

Builder: Loyd Builders

Plan Design:  Frazier Home Design

Photography: Dustin Peck Photography

It’s time to share the photos of our Raleigh Grandeur project!  It’s a gorgeous home created for an amazing family.  We began in the early stages of construction and allowed the design to evolve for over a year. Enjoy the tour and our favorite features in each room!

The Formal Living Room

Favorite Features:  the classic fireplace with beautiful sconces and the metallic grasscloth inside the coffered ceiling

The Formal Dining Room

Favorite Feature:  the stunning crystal beaded chandelier

The Kitchen :: Design Collaboration with Loyd Builders

Favorite Feature:  the luxury appliances by Wolf and SubZero.

The Family Room

Favorite Feature:  the inviting chaise lounge beside the fireplace

The Master Bedroom

Favorite Feature:  the luxurious bed with fine linens

It takes a team of professionals collaborating together to bring a project like this one to life. A big congratulations to the Loyd Builders team for winning the Silver Award in the 2019 Parade of Homes. Most importantly, it’s our hope that this home becomes a place to create a lifetime of family memories for our clients…. it’s why we do what we do!

I recently had lunch with George and Elizabeth Ruzzier, the husband and wife builder team of Foxwood Builders. It was a casual Friday recap of the Parade of Homes. They brought me a gift and it just made me smile!

So often we play multiple roles as designers. In this particular case, I served as the referee. I have to admit, it wasn’t a bad thing because both George and Elizabeth have great design vision! There are not always “right” and “wrong” answers in design. It’s all about the combination of individual design elements.

All of the debate and discussion paid off at the awards ceremony when Foxwood was named a GOLD WINNER in the Parade of Homes! Now it’s time to start preparing for next year.

It’s that time of year again!  Mums and Pumpkins and Parade of Homes. The housing industry is coming back and it’s time to celebrate.

A sneak peak of a house we had the privilege of designing!  It’s a great home with unique transitional design and finely crafted by an awesome builder.

Homes in Wake County are open to the public beginning this Saturday. Visit the Parade of Homes website for a complete listing. Happy Parading!

It’s that time of year again…Parade season!  Each year brings new challenges and this year was no exception. One thing that never changes is the energy that is created when a team of professionals works together to stretch the limits of design and architecture.

For many months, we’ve been working hard to push the creative limits on this fine home located in Ocean Ridge Plantation on the North Carolina coast. Whitney Blair Custom Homes is responsible for the fine craftsmanship! Jeff, Lisa, Dino and the entire team…you are the best!

I had to share a few of my favorite details. Check out the unique design of these gorgeous built-ins! We decided that black was the classic accent color of choice and used it on the backs on the bookcases and inside the coffers on the ceiling.

Gorgeous black cabinets in the master bath by Creative Cabinetry with classic marble countertops.

Gotta love the classic design of the slipper tub. The interior doors were painted black, which really pops the crystal door hardware. It reminds me of my grandmother’s home and is absolutely one of my favorite details!

The sunroom is accented with a tin ceiling, beautiful wainscotting, and (yes, again) black paint on the walls. Using black in interiors can be scary, but when well designed it can successfully add incredible drama.

The fun and creativity never ends. Back to work on more beautiful homes…enjoy!