Feminine Living Room

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When you walk into this 1940’s home the living room is front and center, and the female client wanted it to be more soft and feminine. The Authentic Home COLOR Paint™ in Light Parchment was selected for the walls and Light Sage for the ceiling. To complement the space, a bone-colored round back leather and chenille sofa, soft green silk custom drapes and custom striped silk table skirt were also added to the room. A pewter chair with matching bone and soft green fabrics and a mirrored coffee table make the room perfect for entertaining.

Before & After

Living Room with a View of the Sound

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The couple of this 1930’s split level home wanted a more contemporary feel to their entire home especially since the wife recently retired. Tom Fine of Fine Construction headed up the project while Kathy provided aesthetic guidance with the selection of the interior materials for the kitchen and living rooms including the furnishings. The scope of work consisted of removing a main wall between the living room and the kitchen and dining room and the removal of several windows so to take advantage of the beautiful sound views. Authentic Home COLOR Paint in Grey Stone, Lemongrass, Ocean Mist and Champagne on Ice were used throughout the home.

Before & After

Contemporary Living Room

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This contemporary, three-floor townhome was in need of some authenticity. Owned by a young urban couple, the home’s décor did not reflect their lifestyle or personalities and they came to Authentic Home to create a space with a more playful and modern feel. The bright yellow paint color throughout the entire main floor was negatively affecting the couple’s moods and behavior, and they were ready for a drastic change. The Authentic Home COLOR Paint™ in Pewter was applied to the walls to bring a more contemporary and grounding feel to the space. The existing draperies featured colors of black, white, grey and red and became the inspiration for the new furniture, area rugs, lighting, art work and accessory colors.

Before & After

Rustic Vacation Home Grand Entry

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A Grand Entry The 20 foot high ceilings make the entry a truly grand space. The couple wanted it to make a statement with the size of it as well as show their personalities with the décor. Incorporating natural materials, like a locally found wood beam and barn board material, make the space feel like you are outdoors. Upon entering the home you can’t help notice the photos of local Madrona trees, taken by a family member, the weathered ten foot sideboard and oversized tortoise lamp with drum shade all which provide a casual and comfortable feel to guests. Authentic Home COLOR Paint in Café Au Lait was used on the walls to make the large entry feel warm and inviting.

Rustic Vacation Home Living Room

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The heart of the home is the great room which consists of living, kitchen and dining area. The large stone fireplace is the focal point of the living room and is adored by several two story windows which face the first hole of one of the resorts golf courses. A semi-circular shaped sofa was custom made in a striped Authentic Home chenille and leather fabric and is perfect for entertaining or watching TV. The hand-made custom rock coffee and side tables, from a Montana quarry, brings nature indoors and is the perfect addition to the rustic room. The family loves games and purchased a unique game table with inlaid Italian wood designs while in Italy several years ago. Authentic Home COLOR Paint in Camel was used for the walls to give the room a warm, comfortable feel.

PNW Fireplace Family Room

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The large metallic fireplace tile, by Statements Tile, is centered between the knotty alder bookcases to create a focal point for this family room.  The metallic tile finish reflects the natural light and enhances the balance of all the other colors of this comfortable family room. It’s the perfect place to cozy up with a good book, maintaining the warm, inviting feel that all living spaces should have.

Family Room Before & After

Peaceful Bedroom Retreat

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I recently had a client just outside of Seattle who was looking to brighten and refresh her bedroom space. It’s been said that when you wake up in a clutter free, fresh, calming space, it can set the tone for the rest of your day. It was with this project that I kept this in mind, wanting to create a tranquil, peaceful, and zen-like place for my client to retreat to whenever she deemed necessary.

The previous bedroom was simply decorated, with a neutral, yet cool color palette. While this bedroom had an overall calming feel to it, the space needed just a bit of TLC to really pull it together.  The beautiful roof line of this home adds visual interest to this bedroom, and the simple baseboards and paned window details provided the perfect clean palate to work with.

A fresh, bright and clean color palate is the perfect way in which you can create a calming, restful, and peaceful bedroom space. The beauty of using soft colors is that it is timeless, classic, and approachable while maintaining a richness that will carry over for years to come.

PNW Bedroom Retreat

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Master Bedroom- We took a basic bedroom, and converted it into a spa-like escape!

The Authentic Home London Fog paint color and the Horizon Window Coverings woven weave roman shades provide the foundation to this large space.  The continuation of the knotty alder cabinetry in the master bathroom and the natural floral greens and birch branches add to the rustic and peaceful aesthetics. It now has a zen-like retreat feel, perfect for everyday life!

Bedroom Before

Bedroom After: Bright and Lively!

Modern Zen Powder Room

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This powder room, original to the home, featured a corner shower, standalone vanity and pink wall paint. The client desired a dramatic change to transform their outdated design to a more modern, earthy feel. We kicked off the remodel with the removal of the shower, since it was rarely used by the client and opened up the space to install a larger vanity. The custom black vanity and complementing black pearl granite countertop grounded the room and provided the much needed weight to house the stone vessel sink. The Authentic Home COLOR Paint™ in Dark Glacier was selected for the wall color. The etched wave-patterned sconces, custom mirror frame and black grass weave roman shade all completed the look of this new powder room.

Serene Master Closet

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My clients had recently moved from California and desperately wanted to remodel their 1970’s master bathroom so to take advantage of the magnificent view of south Puget Sound. The large bathroom had a Jacuzzi tub, double sink vanity with small cabinet drawers, an enclosed shower and toilet and a walk-in closet that all simply needed to be updated and redesigned.  My clients preferred a shower over a tub so we made the focal point of the room the view and designed a large shower adorned with three shower heads and stone pebbles on the shower floor in front of an 8’ x 8’ window.  They also wanted to bring the natural colors of nature into the space so I created a color palette of warm green, tan and beige colors.  A new linen cabinet was designed and the vanity countertop is a Seafoam green granite.  Other design features include inset medicine cabinets with wall sconces on either side, a new half wall that provides privacy for the toilet area, a large walk in closet with new build in cabinets and the same tile as in the bath area, an exterior retractable window shade and double pocket doors to the master bedroom really make the space feel like a hotel en-suite bathroom.

Serene Master Suite

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My clients had recently moved from California and desperately wanted to remodel their 1970’s master bathroom so to take advantage of the magnificent view of south Puget Sound. The large bathroom had a Jacuzzi tub, double sink vanity with small cabinet drawers, an enclosed shower and toilet and a walk-in closet that all simply needed to be updated and redesigned. My clients preferred a shower over a tub so we made the focal point of the room the view and designed a large shower adorned with three shower heads and stone pebbles on the shower floor in front of an 8’ x 8’ window. They also wanted to bring the natural colors of nature into the space so I created a color palette of warm green, tan and beige colors. A new linen cabinet was designed and the vanity countertop is a Seafoam green granite. Other design features include inset medicine cabinets with wall sconces on either side, a new half wall that provides privacy for the toilet area, a large walk in closet with new build in cabinets and the same tile as in the bath area, an exterior retractable window shade and double pocket doors to the master bedroom really make the space feel like a hotel en-suite bathroom.

Kitchen with a View of the Sound

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The couple of this 1930’s split level home wanted a more contemporary feel to their entire home especially since the wife recently retired. Tom Fine of Fine Construction headed up the project while Kathy provided aesthetic guidance with the selection of the interior materials for the kitchen and living rooms including the furnishings. The scope of work consisted of removing a main wall between the living room and the kitchen and dining room and the removal of several windows so to take advantage of the beautiful sound views. Authentic Home COLOR Paint in Grey Stone,Lemongrass, Ocean Mist and Champagne on Ice were used throughout the home.

Rustic Vacation Home Kitchen

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The homeowners of this new vacation home wanted a rustic, comfortable feel to their home and kitchen.  Adorned with Tech Lighting pendants separates the kitchen from the living room. Custom made cherry cabinets with Uba Tuba granite countertops, dual islands and a custom built in hutch brings a warm, earthy feel to this functional kitchen. The hutch was glazed to give it a rustic feel and the creative homeowner hand-made four stained glass insets for each of the four door panels. The stain glass design represents both the natural beauty of area and the family’s many hobbies.

Open Kitchen Transformation

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The cabinet divider between the kitchen and eat in dining area was simply in the way between the two spaces. With the removal of these cabinets and the removal of the dining room sliding doors that led to the backyard, this homeowner has an open floor plan and a great deal more countertop space to spread out when cooking. We repositioned the stove and microwave to create a nice flow between the refrigerator, sink and stove areas. A pull out pantry, Lazy Susan for access into a corner cabinet, and a custom bookcase, all provide ample storage in this beautiful, new open kitchen.

PNW Kitchen Refresh

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The Authentic Home Lemongrass color, natural walnut hardwood floors and honed Uba Tuba granite on the kitchen and island countertops create an earthy rustic feel for this lodge like interiors located just 30 minutes from Seattle.  The stacked slate backsplash by Pental, oversized island perfect for entertaining and the high end appliances make this a kitchen that any chef would want to cook in. We love all the natural wood details in this room!

Kitchen Before:

Kitchen After: Rustic Elegance

It’s Finally Spring!

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 Images Source: Pexels

I love this time of year when there is a freshness in the air, flowers are blooming and the birds are singing.  Spring has that way to bring a smile to your face and a lightness to our every step. 

 

I especially love the ritual of spring cleaning. Whether it is your home or your spirit, it is a perfect time of year to start a new.  Growing up on the east coast it was always in March when I would change out my closests from the dark, heavy clothes to the light and bright spring and summer ones.  It is a ritual that I still do living on the west coast. 

I also encourage clients and friends to lighten up their homes. 

 

Is it time to bring color to your window coverings?  I love the use of multiple fabrics in various colors that definitely set the tone for this living room.

 

Or is it time to “get out of the box” and reupholester your sofa in a soft pink color?  Pink is hot color this year and it is the color a compassion and love. So if that is what you are feeling, go for it!!

Whether it is new window coverings, upholestery in a bold new colored fabric or just fresh new sofa pillows in a coral, pink color or crisp green,  a hint of springtime in your home will brighten up any room.

                                   

And of course to really bring a touch of spring into your home, why not paint. Paint is an instant color gratification that will transform your room and your life! I love the crsip fresh look of a bathroom that is painted in a cool blue tone such as Authentic Home COLOR Paint in Sky and set off by the white color of all of the fixtures.  The black and white floor brings the traditional feel into a more modern look just by adding the blue paint color to the walls and updating the fixtures.

 

Are you tired of your old “beige” outdoor cushions? Consider reupholestering them this season in a fresh spring green color.  It is an easy and inexpensive way to update your outdoor look this season!  There are a tremendous amount of outdoor fabrics whether you want a fun contemporary or elegant transistional fabric and color.  Sunbrella is the leading outdoor fabric manufacterer and nowadays many fabric manufacturers have their own line of indoor/outdoor fabrics suitable for upholestery and even outdoor drapery use.  

 

 

May you enjoy all that spring has to offer you!

Trend: Open Glass Shower

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Showers in the past used to be comprised of just a shower head inside of an existing bath tub enclosure and that was it. Today, showers have come a long way, and they are separated from the bathtub to give more space, versatility and visual aesthetics for your bathroom.

      

Open showers are becoming more popular in bathrooms that need to be accessible for all and they open up a small space to appear larger.
The no barrier appeal of open showers opens up your bathroom and can give visual views of expansive vistas and views outside of a window beyond. This modern touch gives the feel of a luxury spa or high end hotel that home owners enjoy.

Are you ready for a an updated bathroom? Call Kathy at Authentic Home to set up  your appointment today!

2016 Design Trends!

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 Images Source: Pexels

As our lives become fast paced with hectic schedules, at the end of the day, we would like to relax at home in a serene and calming atmosphere akin to a sanctuary. In the year 2016, interior design experts have concluded that interior design trends are likely to be characterized by warm room colors, stylish house fixtures and furniture and use of texture here and there.

Some of the 2016 current trends in Interior Design include the following:

 Heated house entry floors
Bathrooms are the first thing that comes to mind when heated floors is the subject. By applying this technology onto the floor of entryways, it becomes even more suitable especially during the winter where an inviting warm indoors will provide a solace away from the freezing outdoors.

 

Marble touches
Marble has become one of the most popular materials that are used in interior design. Marble is increasingly being used to add some luxurious feel on household’s objects like candleholders, planters, coasters and clocks.

 

Stylish bathroom mirrors
Bathroom mirrors need not to be in that traditional and ever boring rectangular shape. Different shapes and styles have been adopted to transform these pieces into design statements that can add some oomph to an often overlooked space like the bathroom.

 

 Kitchens mixed materials
Our beloved kitchens are also moving away from the often traditional polished look to a more eclectic vibe. Instead of using one or two materials, homeowners are incorporating different design styles to create more personalized spaces in the kitchen.

 

Warm metals
Brass, copper and gold have continued to dominate inside kitchens and bathrooms. Such metals when paired with natural and raw materials like wood and marble create a good combination when they are used in interior spaces.

 

Black stainless steel
Instead of the commonplace shiny silver electrical house appliances, the trend of the moment is the use of black stainless steel to make these gadgets.

 

Rough touches
The adding of some rough texture on an otherwise conservative object has the potential to bring out an unexpected intrigue and touch to the senses. The use of wallpapers that bring out a rustic and aging look has also been popular this year.

 

Floral prints
Interior designers have predicted an even growing popularity with floral fabrics used on furniture like sofas and on curtains.
With the aforementioned designing styles and many others that have been used with a lot of great results, it remains to be seen what more will be in the offing as far as interior designing is concerned.

White Christmas: Our Favorite Holiday Destinations

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There is nothing more nostalgic and heart warming than seeing a beautiful white panorama out your window during the holidays. The way in which the snow lights up the sky will remind you that you’re  safe and put you in the holiday spirit like nothing else. This is why at Authentic Home, we have scoured the globe for:

Our Five Favorite North American Holiday Destinations

1. Quebec, Canada.

This beautiful and historical city features intricate architecture, an amazing dining scene, and beautiful winter landscapes. To really enjoy a winter wonderland, check out their Ice Hotel, where you can rent a room and sleep on a hand-sculpted ice bed, with plush linens. Enjoy a scratch cocktail or a glass of wine in their ice bar. You can definitely check that one off your bucket list!

 

Quebec’s quaint alleyways and buildings truly embrace the beauty of the winter cold.

 

The Ice Hotel is an unforgettable attraction for people all over the world.

2. Leavenworth, Washington.

This picturesque Bavarian-inspired town is the perfect getaway for anyone looking to dine, relax, ski, and enjoy the many festivals during the winter months. Enjoy their annual Christmas lighting festival, taste local wines, or dine in a cozy cafe overlooking the beautiful snowy mountains while enjoying a local band. You will feel as if you are so far away, yet so at home.

 

Leavenworth’s Downtown district is so picturesque, you feel as though you are in an impressionistic painting of an old Bavarian village.

 

The Pine River Bed and Breakfast truly captures the coziness of being snowed in, with rustic cabin-like features and beautiful snowy views. Looking for cabin-like Interior inspiration? Check out our Pinterest Board.

3. Omni Mount Washington Resort, Bretton Woods New Hampshire.

Bretton Woods was built in 1772 by Royal Governor John Wentworth. This grand, elegant palace features excellent cuisine, Alpine skiing, and snow swept carriage rides. Cozy up in your elegant room by the fire, or partake in one of their many seasonal events.

 

Ever wondered what a “one-horse open sleigh” looks like? At Omni, not only can you see one, but you can experience one in all of it’s glory.

 

Take a ride behind a team of sled dogs through the snow! This is one of Omni Mount Washington’s most famous attractions. You can see the sheer size of the resort in the backdrop of the above image.

4. Whistler, British Columbia.

This beautiful mountain ski village has everything you could possibly need to experience a winter vacation at its best. Located in the heart of the Pacific Ranges of the Coast Mountains of Canada, Whistler has one of the longest running ski seasons in North America.

 

The beauty of Whistler, B.C., is that the restaurants, shopping, and entertainment are all within walking distance of your hotel or resort when you stay within the village. Bundle up after a long day on the mountain and take in the glistening holiday lights, excellent cuisine, and beautiful scenery.

 

5. Berkshires, Massachussettes

With open roads, quaint towns, and classic red barns, the Berkshires deliver all the dreamlike wintry romance of New England. Snowshoe through open trails, explore  the Norman Rockwell- esque town of Stockbridge, and enjoy candle lit dinners in one of  the many cozy restaurants, while taking in the beautiful snowy surroundings.

 

Beautiful historic buildings, like the Wayside Inn Grist Mill pictured above, truly capture the beauty of a New England winter.

 

The Red Lion Inn, in Stockbridge, MA is a beautiful old colonial hotel perfect for truly capturing the historic elegance of winter in the Berkshires.

Are you getting into the Holiday spirit? Looking for some inspiration? Authentic Home’s Kathy Banak has shared her family cookie recipes, here. Looking to switch up your decor? Bronze holiday interiors are making their debut for 2014- see our inspirations, here.

‘Tis the Season! Beautiful Metallic Holiday Interiors

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 Images Source: Pexels

This time of year is always cathartic and cozy. It’s when we spend more time indoors, relishing in the coziness of our homes, getting crafty, and making extra time for friends and family. Each year, we think about our holiday decor and which theme best fits our present vibe.

At Authentic Home, our favorite style of festive design is through the use of various metallic finishes and bright, clean palettes. We are sharing our favorite tips and tricks to achieve a beautiful metallic holiday decor theme!

‘Tis the Season! Beautiful Metallic Holiday Interiors- Our Inspiration!

 

When decorating your home for the holidays, the easiest way to bring a festive sparkle into your space is through the use of reflective decor and accents. Beautiful metallic ornaments in many different colors works wonderfully together. Don’t over-think it. All silvers, golds, and coppers are complements of each other in the design world!

 

Remember, it’s all in the small things! Starting a collection of beautiful metallic pieces is easy. Scour your favorite home goods store, local antique market, and boxes in the attic. Pull in elements of non-traditional holiday items such as rustic woods and candles. This beautiful shelf display showcases the perfect arrangement of metallics, whites, and organic elements. The beauty of metallic holiday decorating is that it has a timeless aesthetic- it will never date itself! You can use your decor for years to come, adding pops of color that may be trending at that time. To learn how to make an ornament wreath, see a tutorial, here.

 

Implement all holiday decor into your tablescape! Take extra tree-toppers, ornaments, ribbon, and candles to give your table a glimmering, glowing, warm design. The beauty of metallic finishes is their reflective quality. Your decor is sure to sparkle with beautiful ambiance. A simple addition to your holiday tablescape is through the use of organic elements such as jute runners (which you can find already metallicised, or do yourself), crystal stemware, mirrored place mats and antiqued silver utensils. If you have extra tree clippings lying around, place a sprig of fresh pine into your napkin rings for an added festive touch (to see inspiration, click here.)

For  beautiful holiday decor and  tablescape ideas, visit Authentic Home’s Pinterest board, here.

Reminiscent of past trends, frosted trees are back in style. And they go beautifully with a metallic design theme! Use of a pale color palette in combination with metallic accents creates an elegant, sophisticated, warm, and welcoming touch. Through the use of silver, gold, and bronze ribbon you can replace tired garland, and white lights are always a classic look.One of our favorite crafty design ideas is the creation of Rudoulf! Bundle up and enjoy the crisp air while finding the perfect twigs to create your beautiful table piece. Paint in metallic shades, and viola- a conversation piece sure to delight!

 

 Seeking a Design Consultation? Contact Kathy Banak at Authentic Home, here.