Storage and Staging

I just returned from a quick project in Washington DC. The clients were looking for more storage space in their condo as well as some staging so they can put the home on the market. Because I only had a few days there, I pre-planned their new storage system for the master closet. Once I was in the city, we had them installed and within just a few hours their closet had transformed into an upscale space with almost double the storage.

After seeing how easy this system was, I suggested utilizing it again and making a "dresser" in their master bedroom. This created a dressing room area and gave more than enough storage for the many pairs of shoes the couple owns! Every shoe has a space... and there's even room to grow, every woman's dream!

In the living room I rearranged the existing furniture and added to their collection of artwork. In the master, we painted an accent wall a contemporary slate blue/grey which draws attention to the high ceilings and long wall of the room. New crystal and chrome bedside lamps and the room is now ready for showings!

To view the entire project, visit www.janmichelleinteriors.com

Washington DC

Next week I'm traveling to Washington DC for a new client. They are a young professional couple living in the city... therefore living in under 1000 square feet. I'll be organizing their condo and staging so it can be put on the market. We will also be viewing potential new homes, that's not just new homes, it's new homes with potential. They are interested in purchasing an old row house that can be remodeled to suite their tastes and current needs. It doesn't hurt that this is also the best way to get a great home in a great location!

Check back for project pictures!

Construction Check-up

Last week I had to take a road trip to Florida to check on the construction progress of a project. It is a beautiful waterfront property that we have totally remodeled. I love working at the beach, but it's hard to work from a distance. It's part of my job to make sure every detail is executed exactly how the client and I envisioned and planned. Typically I would be on the job site at least every week, but with this property being 6 hours away, I heavily rely on my wonderful contractor. Thankfully, everything looks wonderful. Like every project, however, we did have a small setback. When the new kitchen cabinets arrived, one cabinet was made incorrectly. I am still hoping that the new cabinet will be constructed and installed to complete the project on time. If not, I will have to push back my final installation.

I'm looking forward to the before and after pictures as the transformation will be great. Check back to see them for yourself!

Kentucky Derby Daydreaming

In honor of the Kentucky Derby, occurring today, I wanted to explore the use of horses in interiors. Not just for farmhouses, horses are a common form in decorating.

Symbol meanings of the horse date back to prehistory. The first civilized, written acknowledgement of the horse comes from the third millennium BC where historians uncovered slate tablets which reference this noble, wild animal.

Due to its natural companionship with man in both work and art, the horse easily wins a special seat in history, ranking high marks of honor, reverence and symbolism.

Monogramming

Maybe it's a Southern thing, but I think adding a monogram is a beautiful way to personalize your home. Numerous companies are now offering monogrammed collections to their bedding, linens, glassware, and vases. For my married clients, I often chose a "duo-gram" as I call it, using the first initials of each spouse and the initial of their last name. See these beautiful monograms below.

personalized soaps are an elegant addition to a powder room or even make a thoughtful hostess gift!