Japandi Style…clean, hip and functional

Japandi Style…clean, hip and functional

Photo by Wise Home + Design

Japandi is a new hybrid trend that takes the best of two styles and brings them together to offer the best of two worlds.

Even though they come from entirely different sides of the globe, they share similar elements.

Both Scandinavian and Japanese styles pull their look from a minimalism basis. They both thrive on creating a space that is function-driven and defined by a few statement pieces rather than cluttered with accessories. It is their distinctive difference that pairs them together so nicely. Scandinavian designs have a tendency to be neutral, so the luxurious color palette of Japanese style adds warmth to a room.  Combine the two together, and you have modern, rustic, and traditional elegance all in one.

Intrigued?

Let’s take a look at how you can easily incorporate the Japandi design style into your home.

It’s all about color

Contrast is the key. Japandi style creates visually appealing interiors by combining shades of light and dark. Typically you’ll want to start with a darker base and then mix in neutral hues and natural wood. With a minimalistic approach, accents generally are monochromatic, with a few vibrant colors mixed in.  A timeless black and white color palette will give this design a modern feel.

Include Both Furniture Styles

Both furniture styles feature clean lines and functionality, which make them seamless to incorporate into the Japandi design. Scandinavian furniture tends to be light whereas Japanese furniture often leans to the darker side. Use a mixture, and don’t hesitate to use different shades of wood along with curved and straight lines. By using a combination of both, you will make the room feel harmonious and keep it visually appealing.

 

Statement Pieces

What makes this style work is its lack of accessories.  When highlighting this style choose your statement pieces carefully and just a few. Rely on natural elements such as plants to breathe a sense of vibrancy and character to the room. Remember, this style is function-driven, not decorative.

Japandi style may be relatively new, but its clean lines and functionality are here to stay. By combining both Scandinavian and Japanese style you’ll create a simplicity that only Japandi can define.

Melanie Serra, Interior Designer & Home Stager
Melanie Serra, Interior Decorator, Certified Color, Redesign and Staging Instructor

Award-winning decorator and stylist Melanie Serra has been reviving interiors for over 17 years and has worked with clients in Dallas, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. Melanie Serra’s approach to interior design is fresh and innovative transforming residential and commercial interiors from Now to WOW!

Melanie Serra Interiors - 770-714-3430

Bold Meets Beautiful in Wallpaper

Bold Meets Beautiful in Wallpaper

Wallpaper Trends on the Rise!

It’s no wonder that the modern wallpaper trend is still going strong.  Wallpaper is a  simple and cost-effective update, and today’s patterns are a far cry from the ’80s florals and farm animal borders of the past. Gone are the days of hard to remove paper and gooey buckets of wallpaper paste. Today, wallpaper represents a union between timeless designs and beautiful artwork matched with new paper options. The design industry is embracing its nostalgia by standing true to the fact that “everything that is old becomes new again.”

With the age of self-expression, wallpaper is becoming the perfect way to personalize a room. Its primary purpose is to breathe new life into a room while adding a touch of class and sophistication to the walls that paint sometimes can’t offer. If nothing else wallpaper lets us add a little whimsy to our homes.

The five newest wallpaper trends:

Majestic  Murals

Stunning Landscape Wall Murals by Wallsauce

 

 

 

The love of a European village, New York City or the lowlands of South Carolina can be introduced in a room through scenic wallpaper murals. Like fine art, they create an accent wall from floor to ceiling to capture a mood, theme, or aspiration.

Modern Designs

 

 

 

The age of innovation is endless, and modern designs are popping up everywhere, including on wallpaper. Overscaled botanical prints and geometric patterns incorporate the modern architectural movement with touches of organic elements.

Prints & Whimsical Chintz

 

 

If flowered wallpaper reminds you of your grandmother’s bedroom, look again. A new array of whimsical and Chintz patterns are hitting the design world like never before. Designers are pairing these traditional papers with modern furniture and fun accessories.

Add Texture

 

 

Wallpaper manufacturers have gotten innovated when it comes to paper designs. Adding texture to a wall has never been so simple. Two-dimensional designs and the use of grasscloths and faux suedes have taken wallpaper to a whole new level.

Add a Painting

 

 

Watercolor-inspired wallpaper continues to reign supreme with its over-blown patterns and designs. It’s fresh and modern and becomes a work of art in a room.

Modern wallpapers are so diverse that you will be able to find a suitable option no matter what your style. Forget the wallpaper of your past and step out into the new fashion of bold and truly unique papers.

I can help you select the perfect style and pattern for any room in your home.

I have many resources, along with a fabulous wallpaper installer! If that accent wall or dining room mural is the next project on your list, contact me at [email protected] or call me at 770 714 3430.

Together we can make it happen!

Melanie Serra, Interior Designer & Home Stager
Melanie Serra, Interior Decorator, Certified Color, Redesign and Staging Instructor

Award-winning decorator and stylist Melanie Serra has been reviving interiors for over 17 years and has worked with clients in Dallas, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. Melanie Serra’s approach to interior design is fresh and innovative transforming residential and commercial interiors from Now to WOW!

Melanie Serra Interiors - 770-714-3430

On Trend – The Tuxedo Kitchen!

On Trend – The Tuxedo Kitchen!

Let’s face it, picking a kitchen cabinet color can be quite daunting.

Most of the time when making cabinet color selections, clients go the safe route with white or neutral. But neutral can be a bit boring! What if there was a way to incorporate color into your kitchen cabinets to create that wow factor? I’m here to tell you how!  Go two-tone! Yep, that’s right! It adds a dimension and lets you explore a little bit of color, without overdoing things. One of the hottest trends today in kitchen design is the “tuxedo look.” This design concept offers a timeless style, and universal appeal while adding elegance and simplicity to the most used room in your home. Indulge yourself with color, and I bet you won’t bore of it quickly. By choosing two-tone, you’ll add a dimension that allows you to get a little braver with color without overdoing it.

Tuxedo cabinets are versatile too.

Although you might not think it at first, tuxedo cabinets are incredibly versatile.  This latest trend will transition well with any cabinet door style and looks great in both traditional and contemporary kitchens. A classic tuxedo kitchen is typically defined by white upper cabinets and often incorporates a black island. However, the color choices and the degree of contrast you choose is completely up to you. Tuxedo cabinets are more about creating exactly the look you envision, so they don’t have to be just black and white. Tuxedo cabinets can be any combination of light and dark or two-toned.

A two-toned look is both chic and timeless.

A tuxedo kitchen ups the room’s sophistication without requiring a great deal of time and effort to transform the space. For small kitchens, the look can also brighten and open up the room. Tuxedo kitchens break up the monotony of all one color cabinets. These days the open concept kitchen is more about visual appeal and creating a living space than about being solely utilitarian.

I’m here to tell you it’s simpler than you think. All you have to remember is go two-tone.

Here are some of my favorite tips in making this design style work for you:

Keep in Simple

The most classic way to incorporate this style is to go with the basic black and white. This is defined by the traditional black bottom cabinets paired with its white upper cabinets. This color combination is both chic and timeless. If your kitchen is small, this look can open up the room and make it feel bigger.

Add pops of color

Keep it fun by adding pops of color that keep the eye moving throughout the room.
 

Harmonize the Colors


Add character to a tuxedo kitchen by using two contrasting colors.  In this photo, the gray subway tiles were added to the entire wall, not just the backsplash, which helps tie the dark and light colors together.
 

Glimmer and Shine

Light-reflecting metallics make the perfect statement in eye-catching areas throughout a tuxedo kitchen. Over a breakfast bar, on the walls, and in accessories add just enough glimmer to add a touch of class to the room.

Go for a Cohesive Look

Matching hardware, tapware, and light fixtures throughout the room will give it a unified look.

Highlight Natural Elements

Floor to ceiling cabinets make the perfect backdrop for mixing in natural elements. Wood is the ideal material to soften the contrasting colors in a tuxedo kitchen.

Make Lighting the Focus

In this stunning design, the kitchen begs for luxurious lighting to heighten the drama of the room. Add spectacular lighting that will illuminate the space after dark and highlight its architectural details.

You don’t need to stick to the sleek and modern look of the classic tuxedo design.

As long as you are contrasting colors, you can create a sophisticated room that will be the highlight of your home.

Is your kitchen looking tired?

Are you bored with your current look? Want to transition into a sleek style without spending a fortune? ? Go Tuxedo! Its just paint! It the cheapest decorating tool and can transform your Kitchen from now to WOW!!!!

Melanie Serra, Interior Designer & Home Stager
Melanie Serra, Interior Decorator, Certified Color, Redesign and Staging Instructor

Award-winning decorator and stylist Melanie Serra has been reviving interiors for over 17 years and has worked with clients in Dallas, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. Melanie Serra’s approach to interior design is fresh and innovative transforming residential and commercial interiors from Now to WOW!

Melanie Serra Interiors - 770-714-3430

Bohemian Style Obsession

Bohemian Style Obsession

The word ‘Bohemian’ (Boho) refers to a form that is artsy in design and leads to a visually deep and interesting space.

This style is perfect for those who are obsessed with layering multi-cultural bright textiles and vintage furniture. Think eclectic accessories, patterns, and greenery. Adding Boho style means a room comes to life with a culture that embraces a carefree and relaxed style.

If you find yourself drawn to this type of lifestyle, you can genuinely make Boho a statement all of your own.

Let’s take a look at how you can express yourself with Bohemian Style:

Create a Foundation

Every Boho styled room starts with a solid foundation. Warm and earthy colors layered on top of a neutral base is the first place to start. This neutral backdrop will allow you to express yourself with a multitude of colors and patterns.

Add Greenery

 

Nothing adds a better pop of color and texture than plants. Potted plants won’t interfere with the rest of the design and are a beautiful and fun way to create a relaxed vibe.

Mix and Match

Don’t be afraid to introduce multiple patterns and textures. Think lots of pillows and vintage textiles. This is the perfect place to mix and match elements that usually wouldn’t go together conventionally. From patterned rugs to colorful pillows, inserting various textures and patterns is key.

A Collection of Furniture

 

Second-hand stores are a shoppers haven when it comes to finding unique pieces that match this style. Furniture should look like it has a history and be unique to eras gone by.

Colors that Sing

 

Bright and bold hues are at home in this artistic style. The bolder, the better. Remember to begin with a neutral background, then accessorize in deep saturated jeweled tones such as pink, gold, green, blue and orange. The combining and layering of color is what makes this style unique and fun!

All Things Shiny

 

 

 

What pulls this design together is the shimmer and shine that mirrors and metallics add. Bouncing light off all things that glitter will make a room appear brighter and larger than life. Lamps and lanterns that feature a Moroccan design are sure to add an attractive focal point.

Layer it Up

 

Pattern on pattern and texture on texture is the way to go with a Boho design. Layering one, two, or even three items in different textures and patterns will punctuate the relaxed vibe perfectly.

Tell a Story with Accessories

 

Thrift stores and consignment shops are stocked with accessories that reflect bohemian flair. Artistic elements that add interest to a cozy space will stand out and are less than ordinary. Add unique and one of a kind treasures to create your own boho styled room. It’s all about layering colors, textures, accessories, and adding furnishings that tell a global story.  A story that is uniquely your own and fun to create!

Need some help pulling together Bohemian style? I’d be delighted to help.

Happy Decorating!

 

Melanie Serra, Interior Designer & Home Stager
Melanie Serra, Interior Decorator, Certified Color, Redesign and Staging Instructor

Award-winning decorator and stylist Melanie Serra has been reviving interiors for over 17 years and has worked with clients in Dallas, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. Melanie Serra’s approach to interior design is fresh and innovative transforming residential and commercial interiors from Now to WOW!

Melanie Serra Interiors - 770-714-3430

THE NEXT STEP! I’m following the calling! – Holistic Design

THE NEXT STEP! I’m following the calling! – Holistic Design

THE NEXT STEP! I’m following the calling!

Dear Clients & Friends,

Over the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to slow down, get quiet, and listen to my intuition. This was not easy!!! As most of you know, I have always been a mover and shaker. Getting still meant that the grass just might grow under my feet, and as a matter of fact, it did! (More about that in a minute).

I’ve always known that change is inevitable and that nothing ever stays the same. I’m not sure why, but over the past few months, I felt as though things were beginning to shift. I felt a change coming! Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love what I do. My career is so rewarding, and I’m so grateful to get paid for doing what I love and to work with so many amazing clients.  But I couldn’t understand why suddenly everything seemed to go in slow motion. I tried to rev up the pace, but I felt overwhelmingly tired. (Something I normally would never admit because THAT IS A SIGN OF WEAKNESS)! Refusing to give in, I continued to forge ahead. I knew that I had to pull up my big girl panties, get back on that rat wheel, and keep my footing no matter what!

Then I broke my foot.

“Ok Universe…. what are you trying to tell me,” I asked???

Often, when we slow down and take a breath, new ideas and opportunities have a way of presenting themselves. So, I gingerly surrendered, got still, and really listened.

It began about 3 years ago, but I thought it was too “woo woo” to speak about.  A few of you may have already experienced some very profound sessions with me. Call it what you like…. intuition, psychic abilities, or God’s gift. Bottom line, I’m able to feel energies in a home. That’s right… I said it…” ENERGIES.”

Somehow, I have been given the ability to identify and shift energies in spaces. This gift is becoming more predominant. For example, often special furnishings (from deceased loved ones) will “grab my attention.” Thus, I know intuitively the importance of incorporating these meaningful pieces in the appropriate spaces in my client’s home. I find that it’s very healing and therapeutic to both the client and the house.   I’m also able to identify negative energy and create a shift for the better.

On one prior appointment, I set out to do a home staging consultation but discovered that the house had a negative energy. I instinctively knew that to prepare the home to sell, I had to remove the negative energy first.  This stuck energy was keeping the home from selling. This home had been on the market for two years. The homeowners were frustrated and at their wits end and very aware of the negative phenomena.   They had previously hired a psychic, a Feng Shui expert and a burial plot specialist to see if their home was built on a sacred burial ground.  Each specialist tried to help, but to no avail, the strange phenomena remained and continued to torment the family.

Shortly thereafter, I was hired by a real estate agent to stage the home.  I knew nothing of the history nor the negative entity. Upon first entering the home I instantly felt a negative vibe.  (But in an odd way, I felt as though I was destined to be there to address it).  Intuitively I knew that I could set the house and the homeowner free.  After discussing my findings, we all agreed that I would return to conduct a house clearing.  I went back the following day to conduct the clearing and was successful in releasing the entity. The homeowners were ecstatic and relieved! I then continued with staging and decorated the home to create balance and harmony.  The home sold within a few days.

Up until now, I tried to push this “gift” down and not give it much thought. 

Although I did write a blog last year on Intuitive Decorating, I wasn’t quite sure that this was something to acknowledge, talk about, promote, or sell to my clients. After all, I didn’t want people to think I was a complete nut case!!! But the crazy thing is, my phone is ringing, and I’m getting more and more requests to do this type of work.  So, I’ve decided to trust and just go for it!

I’m learning that the universe works in mysterious ways and if we get quiet and listen, doors will open. 

Last fall, I read a fascinating book called “Health Revelations from Heaven and Earth” by Tommy Rosa and Dr. Stephen Sinatra. Among many things, they wrote about the healing power of grounding and using earth energy to heal people and homes.

You can find the book here>>

I found this fascinating and began grounding myself and my home. 

I started walking in my bare feet for a few minutes each morning and afternoon on the grass. I purchased grounding mats to use under my computer keyboard and laptop to diffuse the electromagnetic energy.  I soon felt less anxious and my thinking became clearer.  I even purchased a grounding mat for my bed. Within just a few nights, I was having uninterrupted and peaceful sleep. I started to feel more relaxed and more in tune with my senses day in and day out.  Instead of bolting out of bed each morning in a stressed-like state, I found that I could slowly ease into my day and become gentler with myself.  Soon I started discovering more books, videos, workshops, and webinars on space clearing, Feng Shui, and other energy design work. I’m even meditating…., which is a HUGE milestone for me!

grounding mats

You can find the grounding mats here>> 

By slowing down and with the help of some of these tools, I was able to get clear on what’s next for me.  I’ve decided to continue with this energy journey and go even deeper.

After much research, I found that there are other intuitives in the world, just like me doing this type of energy work. I also discovered that this is a bonafide profession. In fact, I can become certified in this type of design and energy work.

I guess it’s true what they say “when the student is ready, the teacher appears.”

This past week, I had the opportunity to speak with Renae Jenson (www.renaejensen.com) of the Conscious Design Institute. Renae is a spiritual healer and a teacher and works very closely with architects, builders, interior designers, and real estate agents. She teaches classes in space clearing, Feng Shui, spiritual staging, and Bau Biologie® (the study of natural building). Renae is the real deal and is a successful house whisperer. I’m excited to tell you that I will soon be enrolling in Renae’s Conscious Design Certification course.

I will continue to offer all my decorating and staging services to my devoted clients, realtors, and friends.  But I am excited about “coming out” and sharing with you the new services I am offering in a holistic design. I will soon be adding these services to my service menu on my website.

So needless to say…. my “Woo Woo” has turned into a “Wee Hoo”!

YEP! I’m trusting the universe, and I’m going for it!!!!

If you feel that your home needs space and energy clearing, please feel free to contact me at 770 714 3430 or email me at [email protected] for a consultation. I’d be delighted to work with you!

Melanie Serra, Interior Designer & Home Stager
Melanie Serra, Interior Decorator, Certified Color, Redesign and Staging Instructor

Award-winning decorator and stylist Melanie Serra has been reviving interiors for over 17 years and has worked with clients in Dallas, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. Melanie Serra’s approach to interior design is fresh and innovative transforming residential and commercial interiors from Now to WOW!

Melanie Serra Interiors - 770-714-3430

What Every Atlanta Interior Designer Wants You to Know

What Every Atlanta Interior Designer Wants You to Know

Atlanta Interior Designers tell it all …

I heard someone once describe an Atlanta Interior Designer as someone who always knows what jewelry goes perfectly with any outfit. I love that, and it describes how I look at a room. Just like I match jewelry with my outfits, I match your home with furniture and accessories.

You may imagine me showing up at your home toting fabric swatches and paint decks, and while that may be true, I do carry those in my bag, I would rather you see me as your personal home style assistant.

matching accessories

My job is to open your home’s closet and put together the perfect outfit.

Have you been dreaming of hiring an interior designer or wondering if hiring one would be a good fit for you?

Let me explain a few things that every interior designer wants you to know.

What do interior designers do?

By walking into your home, a designer should get a feel for your style and taste immediately. Most designers and decorators have design degrees and/or certificates to know how to dress your home properly.

From one room to the whole house

Our job is to know how to work within your budget. Homeowners shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help from a professional designer. In most cases, a few small changes can make a huge impact on the look and feel of your home.

Each designer embraces your style

There is no such thing as cookie-cutter designers.  We are here to listen to your ideas, give you professional advice, and offer an array of design options to fit any design style. Most designers don’t work with preconceptions or on a design agenda. Our job is to take your vision to its full potential, all while holding your hand every step of the way.

It’s more than aesthetics

Wall colors and window treatments are important, but those cosmetic things are just the tip of what an interior designer does.  We go out of our way to make sure your space feels harmonious throughout. From the floor plan to the last placed accessory, each element in the room is chosen with purpose and style in mind.

A designer outfits a home in a way that is both flattering and functional. They balance the aesthetics with the architectural features to reflect their client’s lifestyle and desired mood for the home.

An Atlanta Interior Designer will have a clear vision for your home. They will breathe life into it while paying attention to the tiniest details that will transform your space into a polished and pulled together look.

To conclude, an interior designer has the experience to professionally dress your home with furniture, fabrics, and accessories  – the ‘jewelry’ of your home.

Melanie Serra, Interior Designer & Home Stager
Melanie Serra, Interior Decorator, Certified Color, Redesign and Staging Instructor

Award-winning decorator and stylist Melanie Serra has been reviving interiors for over 17 years and has worked with clients in Dallas, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. Melanie Serra’s approach to interior design is fresh and innovative transforming residential and commercial interiors from Now to WOW!

Melanie Serra Interiors - 770-714-3430