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Highlights. Trends. Insights. We’ve got the scoop on everything you need to know about interior design right here in one tidy space!

set of two wall planters by Chameleon Design

September 20, 2021

Natural Wonder: Biophilic Design

If you’ve ever felt reinvigorated after a walk in the woods or a stroll through a park, you’re not alone. It’s well known that spending time in or being near nature is linked to health benefits and an increase in overall wellbeing. It’s no wonder we’re drawn to biophilic design—the integration of nature in the built environment.

Biophilic design is more than adding a few houseplants, though greenery is an important element. It’s about leveraging architecture and interior design to create healthier spaces that make us feel as we do when immersed in nature: connected, safe, curious, and refreshed.

So what exactly is biophilic design, and how can you incorporate it in your home? Some key elements include:

Natural light. This could involve a home’s orientation, window placement and size, and any design that helps blend the boundary between inside and outside.

Biomorphic design. There’s an emphasis on furnishings that imitate objects and forms found in nature, like curves, rounded shapes, waves, leaves, and rock. The use of natural materials – wood, rattan, stone, leather – reinforces the outdoor connection.

Color palette. Think shades of green and lots of plants as well as other hues that are commonly found in nature, like browns, creams, grays, and warm terracotta shades.

This design style is proven to make us happier, more productive, and even healthier, with its focus on better air quality and light to improve sleep-wake cycles. It soothes, calms, and revitalizes, and who couldn’t use more of that in their life!

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

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: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

blue abstract rug in living room by Chameleon Design

September 20, 2021

Rugs That Have Us Floored: Bold is Better

Staring at the floor will be your new favorite hobby once you set your sights on that gorgeous area rug in the room! Rugs are essential as they blend function and style in space. They provide a softer surface to walk on, offer noise insulation, and protect hard flooring from foot traffic and spills. But beyond that, they can be design superstars by adding dimension to a room through color, texture, print, or pattern. A well-placed area rug can define a space, create a sense of intimacy, and add character, especially in open floor plans. Transform a neutral living room into a calming oasis with a bright blue area rug or elevate your sectional with a bold patterned rug and complimentary throw pillows. Slide a rug under the bed in a bedroom for texture and softness underfoot. You can place one outdoors as well to define and add color to a deck or patio. When selecting a rug, consider how its size, material, and color work together in the room’s design. Pay attention to scale too. A rug that is too small can visibly shrink a room, so don’t be afraid to go up a size or two to ensure it fits beneath most furniture! Layer one on any floor for even more texture and dimension to break up the wall-to-wall look. Like art for your floors, rugs can be focal points, conversation starters, or finishing touches, and we love how they tie our clients’ rooms together in a way nothing else can.

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

: Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

August 12, 2021

Iridium Residence 3 Defines Desert Cool

This model home by Far West Industries is influenced by the desert way of life and all the comfort and style that comes with it. Placed in one of the most high-demand areas of Rancho Mirage, this model home has a color palette of greys and blacks to create a sleek, refreshing interior as a perfect juxtaposition to the desert heat outside. With the addition of the pale cream tones resembling the arid desert landscape, this luxurious residence is sure to impress.

Upon entry into Residence 3, you are instantly welcomed by the great room, and its desert modern interior with luxe amenities and cool neutral furnishings. We included a unique bar area with a wine refrigerator and plentiful accessories to add a standout entertainment factor to the space. Moving through, a sense of balance is created with the simple shagreen coffee table and the dark, sculptural light fixture above, as well as the sleek black bar stools distinctly placed against the Calcutta Classique quartz island and matching backsplash.

With geometric patterns, modern abstract artwork, and sculptural accessories throughout, there is no corner that does not radiate modern desert chic.

The residence not only has a beautiful interior, but a relaxing outdoor oasis as well, complete with a pool and spa as well as the perfect patio for entertaining or late evening relaxation. The playful, geometric design of the patio furnishings keeps guests captivated, and the outdoor dining area is the perfect place to take in those cool desert nights.

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

August 12, 2021

Accent Chairs that Sit Pretty

You might need to take a seat after hearing all about why accent chairs are the standout style icons of 2021. Accent chairs are that perfect combination of function and form since they not only provide extra seating, but they also have the potential to define a room. Their smaller footprint creates an opportunity to go big and bold with design, from shape and color to material and texture. Modern, traditional, minimalist—there’s an accent chair for every style. When selecting accent seating, consider its purpose and location. Keep its height consistent with existing furniture for cohesion, but don’t be afraid to mix things up. Play with scale, texture, and style. Go sculptural to make a statement or modern with a metal-framed chair. A wingback chair can be dramatic and bright for an unexpected pop in a classic space, while a barrel chair softens a space with its curved design. For material, feel free to deviate from the sofa’s look and have fun with texture. Leather, suede, velvet, rattan, and faux fur are all great options. Don’t forget to use accent chairs to elevate your outdoor space, too, and create a stylish open-air oasis!

set of two blue accent chairs by Chameleon Design

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creamy beige accent chair in living room by Chameleon Design

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saddle leather and wood armchair in living room by Chameleon Design

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black leather and wood armchair in bedroom by Chameleon Design

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set of two cream accent chairs by Chameleon Design

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gray chaise lounge in office by Chameleon Design

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rattan accent chair in living room by Chameleon Design

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white reclining accent chair in bedroom by Chameleon Design

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nailhead and wood armchair in living room by Chameleon Design

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leather Eames style chair in loft by Chameleon Design

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gray leather and metal armchair in living room by Chameleon Design

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set of neutral armchairs in living room by Chameleon Design

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beige director’s chair in bedroom by Chameleon Design

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rattan and white lounge chairs on covered patio by Chameleon Design

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white accent chair in bedroom by Chameleon Design

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gray wingback accent chair in living room by Chameleon Design

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chartreuse accent chair in living room by Chameleon Design

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curved sofa in chic and modern lounge area by Chameleon Design

August 12, 2021

Well Rounded Design: Curved Elements

It’s no surprise we want our living spaces to be a calming oasis and soothing retreat from the outside world. We want our homes to wrap us up in a cozy blanket. Shape has a profound effect on how we experience our environment, and rounded edges in particular can create an alluring softness. Curved furnishings are everywhere right now because they create a feeling of serenity while adding drama and sophistication. When used in interiors, they relax, calm, and soothe, and offer a nice balance with more angular pieces. Like a wave or meandering stream, curves suggest movement and flow. They’re a wonderful choice for smaller spaces because they open them up while encouraging the eye to move around the room. A curved sofa makes a dramatic statement, but you don’t have to make a big investment to achieve the look. Curves and waves can be subtle, like a circular coffee table, barrel accent chair, or rounded dining chairs. Think beyond furniture and have fun with accents like wall art, rugs, and lighting. Don’t be afraid to play around with texture to create dimension—use fabric, wood, stone, and metals to accentuate the curved design and enhance the sensory experience.

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

curved furniture in neutral living room by Chameleon Design

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curved dining chairs in dining room by Chameleon Design

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blue round coffee table in living room by Chameleon Design

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curved bar stools in kitchen by Chameleon Design

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round table and accents in living room by Chameleon Design

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curved furniture in living room by Chameleon Design

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curved furniture in open outdoor space by Chameleon Design

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curved desk in bedroom by Chameleon Design

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curved detail on entryway table by Chameleon Design

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curved white sofa in living room by Chameleon Design

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curved green armchairs by Chameleon Design

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curved chairs and round dining table by Chameleon Design

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round yellow jute rug in living room by Chameleon Design

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curved metal high chairs by Chameleon Design

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curved rattan dining chairs by Chameleon Design

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curved furniture in great room by Chameleon Design

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

Community Center at Jordan Downs in Watts, California

July 20, 2021

Redevelopment for Good — Jordan Downs Community Center

A distressed 1950s-era housing development is getting its much-deserved second act as a fully revitalized mixed-income community. Jordan Downs is a joint venture master-planned redevelopment by Bridge Housing and The Michaels Organization, located in Watts, California. We couldn’t be happier to partner with both incredible teams to help realize the vision of the community that preserves its historical roots while enhancing residents’ quality of life. Our team’s goal was to breathe new life into the master plan’s shared amenities through uniquely designed spaces that inspire connection and community, for everyone of all ages. A bright and colorful palette uplifts and inspires, and various seating arrangements offer a comfortable place for after-school activities, Girl Scout meetings, and other neighborhood events. Phase 1 includes one of several of the development’s community centers that aim to be sustainable and more energy-efficient. Phase 2 construction is currently underway and will open in December 2021. We are so thrilled to be working on this next chapter of the development which will include even larger community spaces to further provide residents with support, stability, and a place for recreation.

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

Media area in Community Center at Jordan Downs in Watts, California

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

Dining and meeting area in Community Center at Jordan Downs in Watts, California

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

Study area in Community Center at Jordan Downs in Watts, California

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Community Center exterior at Jordan Downs in Watts, California

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

rattan and wood dining set on patio by Chameleon Design

July 20, 2021

Let’s Take This Outside – Why a Cozy Patio is Essential

It’s time for an escape. . . to your soon-to-be amazing outdoor oasis. You may have used your patio during this past year as a makeshift office, Zoom background, or a place to take a break from the kids for a few blissful minutes (no shame in that game!). Necessity is the mother of invention, but now’s the time to level up your outdoor space. Open-air and sunshine are proven to make us happier and increase our sense of wellbeing, so harness that with a patio that is soon to become your new favorite hangout spot. To kick off your new open-air retreat, start with some lounge-worthy furniture that is just as comfy as your living room sofa. Invest in a sectional with thick cushions and be sure to layer on the pillows. For all those cool evenings outdoors, don’t forget to keep a blanket or two nearby to keep warm! You can also add a market umbrella or another sun-blocking feature for those sunny summer days, as well as a dark outdoor rug to define the space and add texture. If you really want to set the mood, add a Wi-Fi extender so you’re always ready with some ambient music. Ready to entertain? A bar cart keeps you outdoors with the margaritas flowing, surrounded by all your favorite people. Cornhole, croquet, and other lawn games are always a good idea if you really want to up the entertainment factor. To fully take in the evenings, add in a fire pit that you can lounge next to while stargazing. Summers are meant to be enjoyed slowly, and there’s no better place to do so than your own stylish backyard.

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

wood rocking chair and yellow stool on patio by Chameleon Design

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

water feature in backyard by Chameleon Design

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

concrete bench and aqua accents on porch by Chameleon Design

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

outdoor chairs and table on porch by Chameleon Design

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woven chairs and metal dining table on patio by Chameleon Design

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

teak bar cart on patio by Chameleon Design

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outdoor dining set and water feature on covered patio by Chameleon Design

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

woven outdoor chairs and concrete table on patio by Chameleon Design

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

outdoor sofa with colorful cushions on porch by Chameleon Design

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

pool and lounge seating in backyard by Chameleon Design

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woven chairs, table, and bar cart on deck by Chameleon Design

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

outdoor sectional sofa and garden stools on patio by Chameleon Design

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teak hammock in backyard by Chameleon Design

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kelly green chairs and white table on patio by Chameleon Design

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dining set, sofa, and pergola on patio by Chameleon Design

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

outdoor sofa and rustic table on deck by Chameleon Design

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

pool table and deck/outdoor patio area by Chameleon Design

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

outdoor wicker chairs and wood table on patio by Chameleon Design

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

outdoor sofa, wicker chair, and tables on patio by Chameleon Design

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

woven chair, wood slice table, and bar cart on deck by Chameleon Design

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

black tongue and groove paneling in bedroom by Chameleon Design

July 20, 2021

Wonder Walls – Picture Perfect Paneling

Looking for a way to quickly add character to your home (and make it instantly Instagrammable)? Just add wall paneling! You can’t scroll through Instagram or Pinterest without seeing paneling showcased amongst all the home design hashtags and influencers. Interior trends come and go, but this one’s here for the long haul. It’s easy to see why, it’s a no-fail way to turn a wall from blah to awe. We’re not talking about the laminate wood paneling in your grandparents’ house circa the 1960s or 70s. Today’s iteration is the real deal with genuine wood and modern spins that look amazing with many popular home styles. Paneling accentuates the shape of a room while adding interest, a foundation for layering, and even insulation. Go traditional and charming with board and batten, shiplap, or picture frame paneling. For a modern vibe, opt for v-grooved, reclaimed wood planks, or colorful painted slats that elevate an accent wall. Light and bright paneling opens up a space and makes it look larger, while darker tones create depth and moodier texture. With wall paneling, you’re only limited by your imagination, and we love adding to our clients’ projects to appeal to today’s design-obsessed homebuyers!

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

wood plank paneling in sales center by Chameleon Design

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wood plank paneling in family room by Chameleon Design

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wood plank paneling in alcove by Chameleon Design

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picture frame paneling in bedroom by Chameleon Design

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white board and batten in entryway by Chameleon Design

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wood plank paneling in bedroom by Chameleon Design

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gray square paneling in living room by Chameleon Design

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wood plank paneling in dining room by Chameleon Design

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vertical tongue and groove paneling in bedroom by Chameleon Design

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vertical tongue and groove gray paneling in bedroom by Chameleon Design

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yellow rectangular paneling in bedroom by Chameleon Design

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vertical wood tongue and groove paneling in dining room by Chameleon Design

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white shiplap in entryway by Chameleon Design

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wood board paneling in bedroom by Chameleon Design

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white rectangular paneling in bedroom by Chameleon Design

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white shiplap in bedroom by Chameleon Design

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blue board and batten paneling in bedroom by Chameleon Design

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white shiplap in home office by Chameleon Design

Photo credit: Chameleon Design

living room in the Savannah plan at Allevare by Toll Brothers

June 2, 2021

7 Is Our Favorite Number at This Year’s Gold Nugget Awards

The Gold Nugget Awards released their list of finalists, and we are so happy to be among the Merit Award winners in five categories! The Gold Nugget is an annual awards program that recognizes the top talent and professionals in residential and commercial construction, planning, interior design, and architecture. Two panels of judges selected finalists across 64 categories representing projects among new home communities and master plans, senior housing, education, mixed-use, and adaptive reuse. Entries are evaluated based on their level of creativity, innovation, and concept execution, and they are open to all 50 states and the international community. We know our team does great work, and it’s icing on the cake to be recognized by our industry peers and experts. After tuning into the live ceremony on June 16, we are honored to announce that our team received the Grand Award for Residential Detached Collection of the Year for Flair at Miralon, built by Woodbridge Pacific Group. Flair is located within the stunning Miralon community, which received the Grand Award for Master Planned Community of the Year! To celebrate, we are reminiscing on all of our Merit Award projects—see more of them below!

Flair at Miralon by Woodbridge Pacific Group | Residential Detached Collection of the Year

Miralon | Master Planned Community of the Year

Modern, mid-century interiors and pops of color against a crisp white backdrop work together to create an inviting aesthetic.

living room in the Flair Plan One at Miralon by Woodbridge Pacific Group

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

kitchen at Flair Plan Three at Miralon by Woodbridge Pacific Group

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

living room at Flair Plan 4 in Miralon by Woodbridge Pacific Group

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

Allevare – Savannah Plan by Toll Brothers | Best Interior Merchandising of a Model Home Priced Under $700,000

Honey-toned furnishings and a palette of gray and clover create serene spaces with organic touches.

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

home office in the Savannah plan at Allevare by Toll Brothers

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

kitchen in the Savannah plan at Allevare by Toll Brothers

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

bedroom in the Savannah plan at Allevare by Toll Brothers

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

The QUE at Vibe – Plan 1 by Woodbridge Pacific Group | Best Interior Merchandising of a Model Home Priced Under $700,000

Gleaming whites and mid-century styling co-mingle with pops of bright yellow for chic and playful Palm Springs vibes.

living room in the Plan One at The QUE by Woodbridge Pacific Group

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

loft view of living room in the Plan One at The QUE by Woodbridge Pacific Group

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

kitchen in the Plan One at The QUE by Woodbridge Pacific Group

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

bedroom in the Plan One at The QUE by Woodbridge Pacific Group

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

backyard in the Plan One at The QUE by Woodbridge Pacific Group

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

The QUE at Vibe – Plan 3 by Woodbridge Pacific Group | Best Interior Merchandising of a Model Home priced under $700,000

Bright turquoise accents match the desert sky and pool in this masculine-styled home that plays with modern and geometric forms.

bedroom in the Plan Three at The QUE by Woodbridge Pacific Group

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

living room in the Plan Three at The QUE by Woodbridge Pacific Group

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

kitchen in the Plan Three at The QUE by Woodbridge Pacific Group

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

Dover at Compass Bay – Plan 4 by Trumark Homes | Best Interior Merchandising of a Model Home Priced $1 Million & Over

Texture and subtle contrasts bring this transitional design to life with layered neutrals and natural materials.

living room in the Plan Four at Dover at Compass Bay by Trumark Homes

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

kitchen and dining room in the Plan Four at Dover at Compass Bay by Trumark Homes

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

entryway in the Plan Four at Dover at Compass Bay by Trumark Homes

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

Dover at Compass Bay – Plan 4 by Trumark Homes | Best Home-Work Space

Texture and subtle contrasts bring this transitional design to life with layered neutrals and natural materials.

office space in the Plan Four at Dover at Compass Bay by Trumark Homes

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

master bedroom in the Plan Four at Dover at Compass Bay by Trumark Homes

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

study area in the master bedroom in the Plan Four at Dover at Compass Bay by Trumark Homes

Photo Credit: Chameleon Design

June 2, 2021

Kitchens That Pass the Stress Test

Can we stop a moment and give our hardworking kitchens their due? These multi-functional warriors have been the home design heroes these past fifteen months. From meal prep and snack time to remote working and schooling, they’ve taken on more tasks than a Swiss Army knife. They’ve become the de facto family hangout spot throughout the day and even a makeshift Zoom room for some. Is there a method to this madness, and can it be done with style? Of course! But it will take some intentional planning, which is why we can’t stress enough the importance of an experienced designer to synergize function and style in the kitchen. To help in your planning, designate activity zones in the kitchen and design around them. Center islands make great multi-taskers, and the bigger the better to accommodate more than one person and task. Built-in desks keep you close to the action (and snacks), as do pocket offices off the kitchen. Keep surfaces clear by making the most of your cabinet real estate with pull-out drawers, lazy susans, and out-of-sight device charging stations. Maximize pantries with good storage and organization. Larders and butler’s pantries are also coming back in both new homes and remodels. And don’t forget some original art in the kitchen for an unexpected pop of personality—it makes a great Zoom background too!