Design Inspiration, SJI Features Sarah Schwuchow Design Inspiration, SJI Features Sarah Schwuchow

It’s Time to Paint Your Front Door

Your front door is the first thing your guests see when they approach your home. It should prepare them for the beautiful interior that waits inside.

Updating the front of your home doesn’t need to break the bank. Sometimes a little paint, new door hardware, and some new lighting is all you need!

 

Your front door is the first thing your guests see when they approach your home. It should prepare them for the beautiful interior that waits inside.

Updating the front of your home doesn’t have to break the bank. Sometimes a little paint, new door hardware, and some new lighting is all you need!

 

The Design Challenge

 

Our client was looking to spruce up her front door entryway. The hardware finish was degraded, the paint was tired, and the lighting didn’t coordinate with the rest of her beautiful interior. We were challenged to update this front door with some new hardware, paint, and sconce lighting.

 

 

The Design Process

We started by taking influence from the stained glass motif. The square nature of the design influenced us to select square hardware and lighting. We went with a pewter metal finish for the hardware, as it coordinated with the metal in the stained glass. Matte black square lanterns completed the look.


Selecting a Paint Color

When selecting the front door paint color, we thought about the context of the whole home. The palette was rich and vibrant aqua and teal tones that balanced well with the neutrals. We used a lot of angled geometry, which also nicely tied in the rectangular design of the new door hardware and sconce lighting.

 
 
 

 

Benjamin Moore Aegean Teal

We finally landed on Benjamin Moore’s 2021 Color of The Year - Agean Teal as the paint color. It’s a beautiful blend of blue-green and gray. It’s an intriguing midtone that creates natural harmony; a balanced and soothing color that allows you to reflect and reset. It goes great with browns, taupe, chartreuse, and whites.

This welcoming color was perfect for the client’s front door.

 

The Reveal

 
 

 
 

Need help refreshing your front door? Schedule a design consultation today!

 
 
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Design Inspiration, SJI Features Sarah Schwuchow Design Inspiration, SJI Features Sarah Schwuchow

Our 5 Favorite Freestanding Bar Cabinets

If you’re not ready to take the plunge and commit to a built-in bar but are done storing your liquor and libations in the kitchen cabinets, then it’s time you meet the middle ground: a freestanding bar cabinet. Not only are bar cabinets completely practical, but they come in so many styles and designs to compliment your space and can add sophistication and intrigue.

 

If you’re not ready to take the plunge and commit to a built-in bar but are done storing your liquor and libations in the kitchen cabinets, then it’s time you meet the middle ground: a freestanding bar cabinet. Not only are bar cabinets completely practical, but they come in so many styles and designs to compliment your space and can add sophistication and intrigue.

Here are some of the freestanding bar cabinets we are loving right now!

 

 

Jonathan Adler: Torino Bar

Why we love it: This rich and moody cabinet elevates a space with a pop of color and polished brass details. We love the painted glass panels! It’s perfect for entertaining guest and a great conversation piece; what’s inside is just as exciting as what’s outside!

 

 

Restoration Hardware: Porthole Bar

Why we love it: Imagine how fun it would be to host a cocktail hour with this nautical-themed porthole bar! We love the 1920s inspired vibes. The mirrored interior keeps this iron sphere from feeling too heavy while still making a dramatic statement. This bar would go perfectly in a moody lounge.

 

 

Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams: Celine Bar Cabinet

Why we love it: This bar cabinet is so sleek and beautiful, showcasing an incredible richly textured faux leather. The black glass top and refined design details add another layer of sophistication. We love the mid-century modern influence!

 

 

Crate&Barrel: West Charcoal Cane Bar Cabinet
by Leanne Ford

Why we love it: Not only does this cabinet allow for tons of bar storage, but the dramatic size and interesting shape makes for a great statement piece! The woven cane and oak adds a natural element and so much texture. This cabinet is sure to add a lot of personality to any space.

 

 

Ballard Designs: Harper Campaign Bar

Why we love it: This cabinet is small, but mighty; it has so much storage and even comes with a pullout tray! We are in love with this rich blue color with the gold accents. It is just the right amount of modern design with traditional accents, making it the perfect transitional piece to suit any style.

 

 
 

Need help selecting the perfect freestanding bar cabinet for your home? Schedule a design consultation today!

 
 
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Design Inspiration, SJI Features Sarah Schwuchow Design Inspiration, SJI Features Sarah Schwuchow

Our Favorite Decorative Hardware Right Now

Decorative hardware is the jewelry of the space! Whether you’re redesigning your entire home or just giving one of your rooms a refresh, use decorative hardware to add a little beauty and personality.

 

Decorative hardware is the jewelry of the space! Whether you’re redesigning your entire home or just giving one of your rooms a refresh, use decorative hardware to add a little beauty and personality.

Here are some of the pieces we are loving right now!

 

 

Modern Matter: Harrison Knob

Why we love it: It’s got texture, color, and character! We love adding metal accents to a make a design statement. Plus, it’s completely customizable; choose from eight gemstones and three different finishes. These vibrant colors are everything!

 

 

Modern Matter: Dogwood Custom Knob - Patina

Why we love it: This delicate looking flower adds a feminine and timeless touch to any furniture piece. While we absolutely love the patina, this knob is also available in three finishes and your choice of seven different semi-precious stones.

 

 

Modern Matter: Kravet Dylan Pull - Polished Brass

Why we love it: These pulls are sure to add luxurious vibes to any room. We love mixing metals into our designs and we are totally here for this polished brass.

 
 
Modern Matter: Kravet Dylan Pull

Modern Matter: Kravet Dylan Pull

 

 

AUZ Design Studio: Small Pyramid Square Knob

Why we love it: These modern square copper knobs add personality to any furniture piece. The finish is so unique and the textured lines on top are subtle and delicate.

 

 

Rocky Mountain Hardware: Emerald Cabinet Knob

Why we love it: This crafted hardware has exquisite detail with a handmade look. Perfect for kitchen cabinets in a traditional or transitional design.

 

 

Rejuvenation: Kennaston Drawer Pull

Why we love it: The sleek design of these pulls adds chic interest. We love the mix of leather and brass! These would be the perfect addition to a sophisticated kitchen.

 

 
 

Need help selecting the perfect decorative hardware for your home? Schedule a design consultation today!

 
 
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