Serene Master Suite

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

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

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

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

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!

 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

 

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!

 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

 

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

 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.

Beachy Keen: 6 Beautiful Coastal Interiors

 

This time of year is the best, isn’t it? There is something so refreshing about the sunshine coming into our windows early in the morning, and  still having sunsets until late in the evening. This time of year inspires us to seek out surroundings reminiscent of days at the beach, family vacations, and true serene calmness. Which is why we are posting our design theme nostalgic to these times.

Beachy Keen: Our Six Favorite Coastal Interiors

 

1. Tailored, Bright and Airy. This beautiful living room brings a touch of the outdoors inside with gorgeous wicker accents, coral decor and coastal inspired paint. Authentic Home’s Powder Greenpaint color from the Fresh Paint Palette is the perfect choice to get this look.

 

2. Elegant, Calming. The perfect first impression! It’s all in the details when it comes to implementing a coastal look in your interior. The straw hat and woven beach bag are the perfect added touch. Authentic Home’s London Fog Paint Color from the Elegant Paint Palette brings a rich, saturated feel to any space while inspiring the perfect beach look.

 

3. Cape Cod Comfort. The use of a woven natural fiber flooring paired with a bright, sunny color palette and palm leaves bring the beach inside. The comfortable chairs and extra upholstered accents make it feel like home.

Image Source: Pexels

Image Source: Pexels

 

4. Colorful Eclectic. Mixing and matching patterns and bright colors works best in climates with more sunlight. This beautiful room is a mix of fun and colorful paired with sophistication and comfort. 

 

5. Sophisticated Chic. This beautiful room is as chic as it gets. The subtle beach accents and cool color palette are softened by the natural fiber rug and upholstered chairs. The use of decorative coffee table candles always adds extra class.

 

6. Martha’s Vineyard Nautical. The use of navy blue and white is as nautical as it gets. This beautiful vignette shows us how it’s in the small things when it comes to beachy decor. The beautiful coral artwork and calm color palette make you feel like you’re truly on vacation.

 

 

Curb Appeal- Get Summer Ready!

 

You have probably been preparing for the summer since January. Summer brings a lot of goodness. Things change when summers approach and the change should be incorporated in your home too!

If you are looking to change things up in summer, here are some ideas that can help:

Add A Touch of Color

Summer means bright, sunny days, which means your house can appear dull in contrast.  To revamp your home’s curb appeal, plant seasonal plants in colorful pots, or line your entryway with fresh flowers. Adding a touch of color really can make a difference!

 

Spruce Up the Front Door
Try to probe the summer by sprucing up the front door. Chalk out any post winter gaps if there are and let things loose. Focus on the front door and keep the temperatures in check before the summer approaches. A unique color always makes a statement!

 

Re-Do The Driveway
On the other hand, you should also try to re-do the drive away. Try to get rid of the debris or any patch cracks. Try to use a squeegee in order to apply to a decent sealer. You can try many different products in order to re-do the driveway.  Generally, the idea is to clean the drive way and this can be done with different options in mind.

 

Fill The Grass
Another common summer preparation is to fill the grass. Try to get rid of the leaves and twigs and de-thatch the dead grass using a metal rake. Try to ask for help if you want the right seed. You should try to hire a gardener if you want some extra work to be done. Moreover, you can even apply bald patches on your lawn to fill grass. Grass looks beautiful in the summer and should be taken care of if you want to improve the look of your home. The idea is to improve the look of your home and the first step towards doing this is to fill the grass. It also keeps your house green which is another huge benefit.

 

Fix  Your Sprinklers
It seems almost yearly that your sprinkler may not have lasted through the winter chill! Check for any winter damage if there is any including cracked pipes and broken heads. You should try to run the sprinkler one zone at a time. Moreover, if anything needs repair, get it repaired.

 

Unclutter Your Patio or Deck
Lastly, you should try to clean and clear the deck & patio areas. Use a deck brush or a decent deck cleaning solution to remove the dirt or mold. Reseal it if you need some smoothness on there.

 

There are many other things you can do to prepare your house in the summer, but these are just a few of our favorites!

Authentic Home COLOR Paint

 

Choosing the perfect paint color is essential to creating spaces that speak to ones’ spirit. Once the paint COLOR foundation is in place, the other interior design and home décor accents easily come into focus. Selecting the right paint color can be an overwhelming process due to the unlimited number of paint color choices available.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kathy recognized the  need to simplify the paint color selection process and created a fine-tuned selection of 75 home paint colors grouped by “mood” palette – FreshElegantSereneRegal, & Playful. Simply select the mood that speaks to you, then mix and match paint colors within that palette for fail proof results.

 

 

 

Need help selecting paint or creating your own Authentic Home?
Schedule your interior design or color consultation today!

CONTACT KATHY

Eclectic Decor- Get the Look!

 Images Source: Pexels

We’re seeing it everywhere- eclectic design is the bee’s knees in 2016! A mix-match of randomness that somehow seems to all pull together. Ever wondered how designers can take a variety of seemingly unrelated items and make them work together in a beautiful yet cohesive way? Well, here’s how!

Eclectic Decor- Get the Look!

 

1. Stick with a color palette. It’s true! If you have a variety of decor that is completely unrelated, you can get a designer look by keeping them within the same general color palette. Color is one of the easiest ways to pull an otherwise mismatched space together.

 

2. Group like items together.  It’s a “psychological thing.” Our minds desire to see like things placed together. When several similar items are placed in a grouping like the sconces, books and pillows in this room, our minds categorize them, making it appear less busy. If you have a lot of something, display it together! This will surprisingly make your space feel less cluttered, and well, eclectic.

 

3. Be Selective. When purchasing decor for your space, choose items that are unique- this will truly give you that eclectic look.

 

4. Let the architecture do the work. Whether you live in a rustic old or streamlined modern building, the key is to let the beauty of the architecture stand out. Bring in key pieces that mean something to you. Keep a neutral palette. Mix old and new, and let the sunlight in! This will naturally highlight the beauty of your space.

 

 

Looking for a design consultation? Contact Kathy Banak today!

Bringing the Outdoors In: Organic Touches

 

I am sure you have experienced a time when you walked into a space and thought to yourself, “I am not sure what it is, but this space just feels fresh and organic.” Well, maybe not in those words, but you get my drift. Sometimes it is just the little things that make a world of difference in a space; the small touches that pull it all together. Many times, these details can be found on your evening walk, or better yet, visit to a local beach or park.

Bringing the Outdoors In: 6 Small Organic Touches that Make a Difference

1.Eucalyptus. This beautifully scented plant grows naturally in most regions. Many people use it for its aromatherapy healing properties, but it also is a beautiful soft green color that doesn’t fade as it dries. The beauty of this plant is that its versatility. Because it grows in long, bendable stalks, you can make wreaths, table runners, and candle holders (pictured below) easily for an elegant touch.

 

 

2. Branches. You see branches used in designer showrooms all the time. Reminiscent of a simpler time, branches can really bring a touch of sophistication to any space. I often find myself walking through my neighborhood, thinking, “wow, those branches would make the perfect accent piece!”

 

 

3.Wheat. Neutral in color, wheat adds a bit of texture and country to an interior space. It is plentiful- you can find it on a farm road growing abundantly. Perfectly groomed wheat arrangements are all the rage in the design world. Simply bunch together the perfect wheat stalks, tie with twine, and cut the bottom off in one clean swipe. The arrangement should be able to stand on its own.

 

4. Rocks & Stones. We all enjoy a day at the beach or the mountains. We tend to collect shells, or stones only to find ourselves with a pocket full of them when we get home, and no where to put them. Next time you’re out in the sunshine, seek out treasures that you can use in your decor. Large white stones work beautifully as bookends as pictured here.

 

5.Rustic Pieces of Wood. Oftentimes you will come across old, worn out pieces of painted or not painted wood. You may think nothing of it, but these finds are so unique, they are sure to make a stunning conversation piece within your home.  Pictured here, simple hooks and mason jars complete the look for beautiful candle wall sconces.

 

6.Hydrangeas. These beautiful flowers have been popular since the beginning of time. The pale pastel colors they take on as they dry out add a softness and femininity to a space like no other flower. Hydrangeas grow abundantly in the Pacific Northwest. You can enjoy them while they’re fresh and vibrant in color, then hang them up to dry and enjoy them for years to come..

Orange-October Paint Color of the Month

 

Orange is an obvious choice for October but there are other reasons why orange is a great color. Orange is associated with stability, reassurance, warmth, and is thought to aid digestion which is why it is great in a dining room.

Image Source: Pexels 

The color orange also radiates warmth and happiness, combining the physical energy and stimulation of red with the cheerfulness of yellow. Orange brings spontaneity and a positive outlook on life and relates to social communication, stimulating two way conversations. A warm and inviting color in a living room, it is both physically and mentally stimulating, so it gets people thinking and talking!

 

Simply painting your front door orange will let anyone know that your home is a happy and cheerful one. Orange is probably the most under-used color in decorating but young people do respond well to it as it has a degree of youthful to it. Painting a chair or table is another way to add that pop of color without going overboard.

  

Authentic Home COLOR Paint has three different shades of orange that will fit any project you decide to tackle in October. Email us at info@authentic-home.com or call (206)937-3070 to order your shade of orange today.