Tag: interior design

Fun & Functional Ideas for Everyday Living

akstudiodesigns

It’s that time of year when we are all craving the sun, water and all outdoor activities.  However, with cool air still surrounding us and a little more time to spend indoors, why not make the most of our excess energy and turn our favorite house hot spots into something more than they currently are?!

Who does not feel a sense of accomplishment by focusing on spaces within our homes that need a little love and making them perform more efficiently for our daily usage? Closets, pantries, laundry rooms, and baths are all spaces that are used on a daily / hourly basis and can get disheveled quickly and put out of order. It’s easy for time to pass and life to carry on and before we know it, our most valued spaces have become the most dysfunctional spaces of our existence. Ugh… what to do???

It is amazing what a little time, effort and imagination can do to turn these spaces into well prepared works of art that you will crave using each time you pass by them. We promise, it is so satisfying to strut in to your newly curated pantry, “shop” for a snack and juice box for the kids and grab a bar from the granola jar for yourself. You will exit with pride and know a job was well done. 

We can guarantee, borrowing a few of these tips will save time and money at the market and provide more economical value in shopping excursions too. It will provide more balance in daily life and routine plus reduce clutter in our mind and environment.

KITCHEN and PANTRY

We know all kitchens are not created equal. Coming in a variety of sizes and configurations, all kitchens can benefit from consistent TLC and organization. We are always on the lookout for items to consider for our clients to keep things fresh, clean and tidy. 

These are a few of our favorites.

Who can resist this beautiful marble organizer set from Williams Sonoma. Full of style and function, the set offers a variety of canisters with lids, paper towel holder, knife holder with Kapoosh insert, bread box and utensil holder. Made of white marble, we feel this set would compliment an assortment of styles from modern to farmhouse kitchens. 

Yes, gold is the new GOLD, how could we ever forget it?! This stunning canister set is the perfect alternative to compliment your gold light fixtures, cabinet hardware and plumbing fixtures. This Williams Sonoma set would look stunning on any countertop color from black to white and anything in between, we guarantee it!

Have kids who love cereal? Who can resist this over the top dispenser to serve the kiddos their favorites. Easy to clean, easy to self-serve, looks fantastic in your pantry.  Gotta have one!

Try this one from Williams Sonoma.

Jars! Jars! Jars! These are a MUST! Mason jars are not just for canning anymore!  Anything goes in a jar. Dry goods, rice, spices, candies, nuts, fruit, vegetables, pastas, grains – anything.

This is a perfect addition to any refrigerator or pantry so be creative with sizes and display or arrange your collection efficiently to accommodate your stock. It’s amazing how organizing in an efficient “pretty” way will promote items to be used or eaten before foods spoil. If it looks appetizing in the pantry or fridge, it disappears quicker, hmmmm….funny how that works! Mason Jars are available anywhere from amazon to meijers.

**PS make certain to follow proper food preparation before storing refrigerated foods.

Can good dispensers are a fun way to arrange your cans, keeps things arranged and your inventory front and center showcasing your very own super market!

CLOSETS

Nothing makes life simpler that a well displayed closet. Starting your day by waking up and walking in to your closet to “shop” for the perfect outfit that will represent you for the day can be exhausting. Whether it is your favorite pair of yoga pants and flip flops or a navy power suit for a corporate meeting, a well styled closet saves time and frustration in your daily routine. 

Try these few simple low budget tips to create the closet of your desire (no matter the size).

Prep and purge your closet first. This will cleanse your mind and closet. Rid yourself of items that no longer serve their purpose. It may not serve a purpose to you any longer however, by donating items you’ll give them new life to someone who will wear them with pride.

Prioritize colors and arrange in color collections. For example; group all whites, grays, blacks, brown, blues, greens, reds, pinks, prints, etc. together. You will find it amazing how easily you’ll locate your favorite black turtle neck at 7:00 am! It will be like walking in to your very own private boutique each morning. Getting dressed will become less stressful and emotional taking the edge off your morning and putting your energy toward planning your day and not your wardrobe.

Streamline and neutralize your hangers to all one type and color. We love these options from Wayfair, but choose what appeals to your style and needs. Gripper is terrific for keeping those pesky cold shoulder tops in place and the cedar look and smell great.

Try dividers to separate colors, sweaters, blouses, t’s, etc. This tip may assist in your organizing quests.

Prioritize colors and arrange in color collections. Example; group all whites, grays, blacks, brown, blues, greens, reds, pinks, prints, etc… you will find it amazing how easily you will locate your favorite black turtle neck at 7:00 am! It will be like walking in to your very own private boutique each morning. Getting dressed will become less stressful and emotional taking the edge off your morning and putting your energy toward planning your day and not your wardrobe.

BATHS

Next in line to our kitchens, these are the hottest spaces in our homes. Keeping our “props” in front of us and in arms reach is essential for all of us. These are just a few items we think are game changers in making our baths all they can be and keeping it pretty!

These labeled shower bottles from amazon are just the right touch to add in to any shower. With beautifully designed tile and marble showers, it is hard on the eye to fill them with Loreal shampoo and Dial body wash bottles. These bottles are sleek and chic and would compliment any shower or tub.

Bamboo stackable trays from West Elm are perfect for any linen closet to keep inventory of all your favorite first aide, manicure supplies, makeup, skin care supplies and linens organized. 

Coordinate bath accessories. Coordinating your tissue boxes, soap dispensers and trash cans is the perfect way to keep your bath neat and uncluttered. We love this set from Target. Select a color and style that is perfect for your bath, and remember, when in doubt of color choice, choose the color that matches your faucet!

How can we resist sharing this fantastic high style gold framed recess medicine cabinet? This is the perfect addition to any bath needing that extra edge for small bottle or container storage. Each of us have our own collection of creams, vitamins, paste or pills that we love to keep in front of us for accessibility. Recess medicine cabinets are a great solution. Take a look at this one we found from West Elm, available in 5 colors.

HOME OFFICE

With more and more of us working from home, providing ourselves tools to keep organized will help with efficiency as well as beautify our designated work area. Try these stylish pieces to add to your desk area.

Acrylic understated desktop accessories help to keep your pens, pencils, scissors, mail and documents intact and tidy. Nothing spells cluttered more than a messy desk.

Glass boards are all the rage in any office application. Available in an assortment of colors and sizes, we can guarantee you will find the perfect one to suit the needs of you and your family too. Whether its function is evening homework with the kids or preparing for a zoom meeting in the morning, these tools are a great asset to any work space.

Contact LL&A for more information.

Create your very own command center complete with copy machine, stock of paper, ink, calendar, immediate access to documents and supplies.

BASKETS, DID SOMEONE SAY BASKETS (AND BOXES)?

How can any home survive without the perfect basket? We ask ourselves that every day, it’s simply not possible. Whether you find them in the closet, pantry or laundry room, finding the perfect baskets can be a fun and creative quest that will suit the need of each and every room they are needed. Colors, patterns, textures, shapes and sizes, with lids or no lids, so many choices allowing you the chance to have a ball finding just the right ones.

We are obsessed with this assortment of boxes and baskets that are offered at LL&A.

LAST BUT NOT LEAST, THE BAR!

Nothing says slick more than a well-organized and beautifully displayed bar area.  Whether entertaining or just for you, this is a feel good experience for yourself and guests to enjoy. Using glass decanters, sturdy trays, coordinating glassware and wine displays are such an asset to any bar area.

This set of Scalamandre Tray and Ice bucket in green is a stunning addition to a traditional bar.

We love using decanters for your favorite liquors.

Need an additional wine display, try this metal wine rack that holds 8 bottles.

Call our office at 812.282.6606 for more details on boxes, barware and baskets!

Have fun along the way exploring your own ideas and products that make your life easier. We would love to see and hear all about them, make sure to insert your genius projects in the comments!

8 Things Every Room Needs

akstudiodesigns

This month we wanted to share our top list of items every room cannot live without! Although a room will come in a variety of sizes, shapes and functions, a space can be made better by adding these simple touches.

Books and Magazines

What a terrific way to let your personality shine! Not only for your reading pleasure, but to also express your interests.  By layering cookbooks in your kitchen, Danielle Steele in your bedroom or a collection of magazines that reflect your personality, you will enjoy them each and every time you walk into the room.

Whether you’re a literature buff or not, you’ll have a ball collecting your favorites!

A bookcase craves books, a fun tip is to hit up your local library to browse the shelves in search of just the right color palette or subject matter that suit your taste and interests. If you’re collecting books as space fillers, remember that you can remove the sleeves and display the binding color. Collect color palettes that enhance your room, black, tan and brown are always great stand-in’s, but you can always take a leap by adding sage greens or pale pinks for added fun and style.

Have fun and let your personality shine!

Select a color scheme and buy books within that range.

Greeneries and Flowers

Every room is better with touches of greens and flowers all throughout the year.  Whether you have a green thumb or not, there are options for you. Take a weekly trip to your local market and grab a bouquet of fresh cut flowers and add them to your favorite glass vase!  Have fun arranging them and being creative mixing the varieties you purchase. If you’re up for the challenge, live plants are always a nice addition.

Favorite Tip for live plants: Pot them in all alike containers, example; white, cream, gray or black pots.  Keep the pots neutral so your plant varieties will sparkle.  We also advise to keep your live plants in collections, try layering them on plant shelves.  Have fun being creative.

There are wonderful alternatives for those of us not born with a green thumb!  Permanent foliage in a variety of greenery options or beautiful silk florals are realistic, maintenance free and easy to clean.

Whether you choose to add a permanent Yucca plant in your great room or live herbs in your kitchen, either option will breathe oxygen and life into your home or office.

Candy Dish

Grab your grandmother’s crystal dish or your favorite clay bowl and have a ball filling them with treats for your guests (and yourself)!  Keep it simple with Peppermints, M&M’s, Hershey Kisses or have fun with trips to your favorite candy store for a variety of caramels, chocolates or tarts. Your guests will love the added touch and your family will welcome the treat with each visit. Candy alternative, try some nuts or granola!

Scents

Nothing sets a mood quite like the scent of something delicious. Aromas can be acquired in a variety of ways; candles, incense, room fresheners, oils and diffusers can all be tailored to your individual senses. Each scent has its own characteristics, so choosing the one right for you can be fun and challenging.

Whether your taste are citrus, sweet, floral or woodsy, you may discover the scent that suits you will also fit the style of your space. Selecting your signature scent will certainly be a subtle addition to your home or office and guests will associate the aroma with you after each visit.

Window Treatments

We consider a window covering the finishing touch to any room. Window coverings should be tailored to fit the needs of the window and the room that it is within. Some windows may require sunlight control or privacy, try beautiful operable roman shades, screen shades, shutters or wood blinds.

LL&A Interior Design Homearama Office Louisville
Woven roman shades offer a simple privacy solution with added texture.

Each option will provide something unique to the window and fulfill the needs of the space. Drapery panels or valances are the perfect final touch to complete the design of the window and room. Selecting the perfect fabric, style, hardware, and trim are essential to the overall window covering. 

Size matters! Take the time to measure and install correctly to enjoy the treatment for years to come. Invest wisely and consider custom treatments that will be designed with beautiful fabrics, trim and hardware for your room tailored to your specific needs.

The combination of silver metallic wooden poles, crystal finials, beaded trim, button detail, tiebacks and lush fabric produced this stunning custom window treatment scheme in this formal master bedroom.

Color

The use of color can be expressed in a variety of ways. Color has the ability to change our mood and our minds, so we must choose wisely. Choosing your color palette should reflect the overall vibration you are trying to achieve. 

colorful interior design

You can express color in a variety of methods such as paint, fabric, carpets, accessories and artwork, each an avenue of color distribution.  Bold, soft, striking or delicate, color can be your best source of expression. You will have the freedom to do a lot or a little and exercise your personality and style.

Many beautiful spaces have a neutral color scheme that layers white, cream, gray, linen and wheat. By adding greenery, candy, books or magazines you will add that splash of color to attract visual interest that a room needs to deliver character.

Lighting

Good lighting is essential to any room. Light sources are offered in a variety of options and applications. Recess can lighting with LED bulbs keep things clean and simple and offer overall disbursement of light within a room & can be placed accordingly to suit the room requirements. Overhead lighting such as chandeliers, flush mounts or pendants accomplish a variety of needs while accent lighting offer nuances that will attract the eye towards artwork, bookcases, steps and cabinetry. Lamps are a terrific way to add style and intimacy to a room, choosing lamps with 3-way bulbs give options for the lamp’s usage. Remember, using consistent temperature bulbs is a must in any room and certainly sets the tone of your space!

Balance

Every room requires balance. Balance with shapes, scale, color, and texture. Mixing all of these design elements are equal to the success of a space. A room should not feel weighted on one end versus the other or color not distributed evenly. Accessories should be placed with effort and conciseness while artwork should be considered to fit the size of the wall it is being placed on.

Every space has an aura, a mood or a vibe. Have fun connecting to yours by trying some or all of these simple tips. You will appreciate connecting to your space and really making it “feel” the way it looks.

Now dim the lights, open the blinds, grab a Hershey Kiss, read a book and water those flowers, and “Oh Yeah” …turn on some music and dance! Set your Aura!

Buds, Blossoms and Bouquets

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Spring is springing upon us and we are ready for some beauty in our communities!

Grass will shortly be turning into thick green carpet spread across our soil, trees will be budding with fluffy leaves and the fragrance of honeysuckle will fill the air.

Ready Or Not, Here It Comes!! (Thankfully)

Undeniably, Mother Nature produces breathtaking varieties of plant life and botanicals. We love to bring the outdoors in with a variety of plants, florals and trees. Adding touches of foliage in any space creates a sense of oxygen and life. However, for those of us who do not have a green thumb attached to our hand, we have the perfect solution.

Permanent arrangements are not only maintenance free, but they are beautiful, colorful, lush and tailored to our individual needs & style. Whether you add a lush tree in a corner, a delicate orchid on a tabletop or a statement wall divider — quality foliage can be just the right finishing touch to complete a space.

Regardless if your style is Coastal, Tropical, Desert or Woodland the varieties are abundant and realistic. Assortments of succulents, orchids, ferns, palm leaf, boxwood, moss and agave are terrific options to consider in your space.

Adding a dash of green completes a space with just the right touch of vine and vegetation. Trust us, you will love the results!

At LL&A, we offer a variety of florals and greenery perfect for any space and season!

Mood Swings

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Can you imagine the seven layers of moods under one roof of seven women bonded to Interior Design?

We can!

Driven by a common love of space, color, pattern and light, our group of talent brings something for everyone when it comes to what makes us tick as individuals. Each day we focus on the needs of our clients by creating spaces that reflect their personalities, carefully listening to the clues that will make their surroundings their own.

We were curious—what moves us & what inspires us? Boy oh boy, did we learn a lot about ourselves and each other. What fun we had exploring ourselves, digging deep and uncovering the obvious. In doing so, we discovered our team had more in common than expected, some more than others, but needless to say our personalities did shine!

Our assignment was to create an inspiration or mood board that would reflect where we are likely to draw upon for sources of imagination and creativity. Fun, fun, fun! 

We are excited to share our Mood Boards with you—do YOU think they match our personalities?

Katie

Warm, earthy, sophisticated and fun all best describe my personal style. I am inspired by comforting spaces, rich with texture & pops of pattern. Art, fashion, makeup and architecture are also areas that I gain momentum in creativity. I love the contrast between dark vs light, organic vs geometric, and old vs new. Converging these elements helps me to create aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces.

Mallory

I am inspired by natural elements such as the beach and flowers, accents of soft but impactful colors, a touch of glam and an assortment of soft elements to sweeten the space. I favor gold accents over silver, black or bronze. Most of my design personality was founded during my travels abroad, my favorite places were always on or near the ocean or sea with the beautiful colors of the water. Soft whites and pinks of London, the blues of Greece and the florals of Italy were truly inspiring to me and I hope to carry these elements throughout my design career.

Shelby

I have always been a girly girl. As a sophomore in college, I began watching classic films and discovered I am obsessed with Parisian fashion, architecture and lifestyle. I draw much of my inspiration from the Rococo period and am drawn to organic shapes and patterns. The details are everything, honey! Oh, and I like the color pink just a bit.

Sarah

Timeless patterns, materials and bold modern accents integrated together are combinations I love! I am inspired by the colors of nature, the variety of elements it offers, and the ever changing light throughout each day and the mood it brings. I’m drawn to “bringing the outside in” and using natural materials, finishes, and textures in a modern application. Sleek, timeless, bold, earthy and moody spaces are what I am most drawn to.

Lauren

Neutrals, clean lines, modern country and Scandi rustic best describe my personal style. Most of my inspiration comes from nature and the outdoors. I am drawn to organic finishes & textures and consider myself a minimalist. Balancing new, repurposed or vintage pieces will always attract my attention.

Tammy

Mother nature is my largest source of inspiration. Earth, Wind & Fire. I love opposites, my favorite view is the skyline touching the treetops or mountain range, where the earth meets the sky. Plants, water, soil, stones, wood and metal all work in tandem effortlessly to produce peaceful and tranquil spaces. I am a maximalist, meaning I love things, many things, having them around me brings me a source of contentment. I have to admit, I have a soft spot for pottery, baskets, stones and incense!

Leslie

Just as the river meets the ocean, design to me is the seamless flow, harmony and rhythm of each of these elements merging together in a wonderful way.  What I love and draw my largest source of inspiration from is natural light and happy spaces. Creating spaces that are welcoming, comfortable, timeless, simple yet sophisticated bring me joy and fulfillment.  I am drawn to texture, animal print accents, navy, salmon and moss green. Completing a room with fresh cut flowers and the touch of sparkle from cut crystal adds just the right finishing touch for me.

We had a blast creating our Mood Boards and most of us realized that we could create more than one!

So… for fun, we decided to create a mash up of our personalities and watch the mood swing to a whole new set of emotions! Are you ready?!

Riding pink horses to the beach, wearing brown clogs and halos made of flowers or riding vintage bicycles through the woods with our eyes painted green would suit each of us all too well! See, we told you we were more alike than not!

On the corner where hip meets happy, we are a melting pot of personalities inspired by all that is beautiful in this world.

What Are You In The MOOD For? We invite you to create your own mood board for fun. Create one for yourself, your spouse or friend and share them with us on Facebook or Instagram!

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, have you wondered where we are?

akstudiodesigns

Here we are!! Our blog is alive & well, surviving and thriving through this blissful Holiday Season.

Yes, Tis the Season to be Jolly and we here at LL&A are certainly ready to enjoy this time with our families! We are spreading the joy and are excited to share some terrific gift ideas for your list of Nice and Naughty’s. Whether you are busy online shopping over the world wide web (Hello Amazon, we all love seeing those blue vans pull up to the door to drop off all the goodies we forgot we ordered!!) or venturing out into the stores masked up to find the perfect gifts for all your favorite people, now is the time to get started finding the perfect gifts.

The Shop at LL&A is open for business and we welcome you to come in and find the perfect something for the special someone. From jewelry, scarfs and home accessories to candles or holiday gifts – we have a great assortment to select from.

Try one of these sweet Holiday ideas…

Wine Toppers

Nothing says “celebrate” better than a bottle of wine. Cap your favorite bottle off with one of these adorable felt wine toppers in assorted styles. Quick & easy and a sure hit with the receiver! Price: $9 – $16 each.

Recycled Beer Bottle Candles

Line them up 1,2,3 and bam! Instant cuteness! These are perfect for the beer connoisseur on your list that appreciates a nod to their brew! Cheers! Price: $9 each & includes matches.

Holiday Candles

The sweet smell of the Holidays, who does not love it! The gift that keeps on giving through the season! Price: $16 each

Holiday Pet Pics

HoHoHo, these precious pooch pics are the perfect delight for the pet lover on your list. Price: $32 each

Apricot Hand Sanitizer

This little product is all the rage! Nothing says “I love you” like a sweet bottle of hand sanitizer these days. Perfect little 2020 stocking stuffer. Price: $7 each

Vintage Reindeer

We love these funky and colorful reindeer, perfect for table top or a mantle! What a fun color scheme to trim your tree in bright pink, green, yellow and orange! Falalalala Lalalala… Price: $67 each

Metal Deer Wine Cooler

Try one of these wine chillers to cool down that favorite bottle of wine, so cute! Price: $34

Fur Pillows

Cozy up next to the fireplace with one or both of these chic furry pillows! Buy them for yourself and enjoy them all season long. Even Santa would want to rest his feet on top of one of these stylish down filled pillows!

Grey Fur Pillow: $120 & Red Fur Pillow: $125

Burgundy with Embroidered Trim Pillow: $99

For the person who has it all, try one of our Design Consultation gift certificates, valued at $250.00 or a gift card of an amount of your choice to be used towards any product of choice. We have something for everyone and every home at LL&A!

Stop in The Shop and enjoy 30% off all merchandise through Christmas day. We are offering curbside pick up and free gift wrapping for any gift purchased too!

Local shopping made easy! Thanks for shopping small this holiday season.

Our Year In The End

akstudiodesigns

So here we are… 2019 has come to a close and 2020 is here.

LLA New Year 2020

2019 marks many experiences, changes and accomplishments for our team’s personal and professional lives. Together we finished the year feeling confident, satisfied, accomplished, grateful and blessed. Yes, we work hard to serve our clients and nurture our business, but we also feed and water our personal lives and relationships. Keeping our tanks full is essential for each of us. We all work hard to maintain work and home balance. As challenging as it may be, we are all determined to keep all balls in the air!

2019 had plenty of scene stealing headlines but we cannot let them over shadow our own contributions to story telling!
Granted, history was made when President Trump became our nations 3rd president to be impeached, yes, this is a big deal. We get it… and yes, the college admissions scandal was a pretty big deal, but we made our own newsworthy articles ourselves!

LL&A Headlines, Read All About It!

read all about it

A year of planning…

Did you think Justin and Hailey were the only couple to tie the knot this year? Well, our very own Sarah and Matt put a ring on it and strolled down the aisle in October too!

A year of anticipation…

Duchess Megan and Prince Harry are not the only ones to have had a baby boy, Lauren and Cody are expecting their very own bundle of joy in May of 2020.

A year of change…

Leslie’s “25 year old bundle of joy” son, Murphy landed his dream job in South Florida which has made for several fun trips to the Sunshine State getting him settled in with many more trips to come!

A year for learning something new…

Playing nurse was never a game Tammy was particularly good at as a little girl, but this year proved to be her year to learn. Luckily, she picked it up quickly and helped nurse two parents back to health.

A year of balance…

Dawn continues to balance her life here in Southern Indiana with her world in Fort Wayne where her two daughters, two son-in-laws and six grandchildren live.

A year of growth…

This was a year of growth for Whitley. Julia Roberts certainly has nothing on our adventurous girl. On a solo trip to Cabo to celebrate her 30 years of life, she ate and prayed the whole week long! Cheers to spiritual growth!

Together we each closed the year having planned, anticipated, changed, learned and balanced many aspects of our lives. Some things turned out as planned – others maybe not. Some changes we welcomed – others more unexpected. Lessons we learned were blessings and changes will always be just as the seasons change.

2019 Group Photo in Shop

Faith and love is the key to the LL&A team… time to unlock the door to 2020!!

Your friends at LL&A Interior Design

#indianagirls  #liveloveappreciate

Let the Holidays Begin.

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holiday family baking

Wow, can you believe the Holiday Season for 2019 is among us?

The hustle is on and the bustle is bustlin’!

Question:  How do we get through another season of festivities, shopping, feasting, sipping, gift wrapping, decorating, cleaning, spending and memory-making all in one piece?

Answer:  We have absolutely no idea!

We all love to entertain and be entertained, give and receive gifts and cook and feast. Making it all happen and appear to be effortless, on time and stress-free is the challenge. Where do we cut corners with time and money without making it appear that we obviously cut corners with time or money!?

We aren’t Pinterest Maidens but, we do appreciate all of the terrific ideas that can be found on this terrific platform. The problem is – how do you decide what to choose with so many options? It can be so overwhelming…

Do we need to feel guilty if we order our roasted turkey from the market and do not roast in our own kitchens? Is time saved in the kitchen more valuable than a homemade feast?

woman gift wrapping tired.jpg

Which do you prefer, this or that…

  • Homemade pies vs bakery goodies
  • Instant vs real potatoes
  • Bag of bows vs hand tied ribbon
  • Gift bags vs wrapped boxes
  • Silver & glass vs paper & plastic
  • Gifts vs experiences
  • Cash vs gift cards
  • Clear lights vs multi-color

Help a friend out here people! We would love to hear from you. 

What ideas can you share for making new Holiday traditions?

What family traditions do you still carry on from your childhood?

What tips do you have as a host for your Holiday festivities?

What gift giving ideas can you offer for that hard-to-buy-for person who has it all?

holding gifts

You see, we need to help one another through this blissful time of year and make beautiful memories together.

We would love to read your favorite recipes, gift giving ideas, time savers, family traditions, and anything else you would like to share with us.

 

holiday dinner image

Simply add your comments here, tag us on social media or message us to share.

Help us help you, from Christmas lists to Christmas miracles, Frosty to fruitcakes, and elves to eggnog, where do we start and how do we keep it fun & peaceful.

Now, lets rock around the Christmas tree with Frosty the Snowman, playing our silver bells while we watch mommy kiss Santa Claus!

old school hostess holidays

Your friends at LL&A Interior Design.

#indianagirls  #liveloveappreciate

Our Industry Influencers & Design Crushes

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Each of us at LL&A have others for whom we look up to and admire for various reasons. Whether it be a favorite musician, artist, author, entrepreneur, we all find our connections and admirations through a variety of outlets.

Carole King, once brilliantly wrote,
“I write heavily under the influence of James Taylor”.

We too have been inspired throughout our careers by an assortment of individuals who have helped shape our paths in the design industry. Both past and present, these talented trailblazers sculpted their passion for design that is as relevant today as it was in years gone by.

We invite you to share in their stories to understand how their contribution to design has chartered our philosophies, aesthetics and business awareness.

Past and present – you will certainly begin to connect the variety of influencers to each of us as individuals.

 

Jean-Michel Frank – Decorator & Designer. Whitley’s Design Influencer.

 

Artists take inspiration from the world around them, and it’s hard to imagine a richer environment than Paris in the 1930s, when Jean-Michel Frank was the most celebrated decorator and designer of the era. Frank has always been an interior designer that Whitley’s admired most.

His aesthetic has been described as “modern and minimalistic” featuring subdued, neutral textures and clean lines. An advocate for combining different styles, Frank brought together both old and new to create spaces full of texture and character. He also enjoyed incorporating other artists’ works or designs into his rooms. Whitley’s always loved his use of unexpected materials together such as leather, wicker, and forged iron – allowing for a space that’s both chic and masculine.

Frank’s rooms were often “devoid of the unnecessary”, which is also reflective of Whitley’s own personal taste in design. Accessories were always kept to a minimum, allowing the furniture and overall design to speak for itself. Frank might be most well-known for his creation of the Parsons Table, which to this day remains one of the most classic furniture pieces in modern design.

Jean Stoffer – Interior Designer & Sarah’s Design Crush.

 

Sarah started following Jean Stoffer on Instagram a year ago and fell in love with her aesthetic. Whenever scrolling through her feed, Sarah will see one of Stoffer’s kitchens or baths and instantly recognizes her style.

Stoffer effortlessly combines a traditional look with a modern edge and each of her spaces are cozy and inviting. Drawn to the simplicity of Stoffer’s work, Sarah finds inspiration in her design elements. Design with a clean line, earth tones, and greenery is Sarah’s signature look and she swoons over Stoffer’s use of woods, metals, and the details she puts into the architectural elements in each space. She is a must follow!

 

Dorothy Draper – Interior Designer & Icon. Lauren’s Design & Business Inspiration.

 

There are a lot of interior designers that have preceded us all that are a big influence on Lauren’s design thought process and the specific branches of the design field, but none more important than Mrs. Dorothy Draper. She was one of the original interior designers and #girlboss icons.

Not only one of the first to professionalize the field of interior design, but also one of the first women in the early 1920’s to start her own company. Breaking boundaries, Draper loved bringing her touch of unusual contrasting, vibrant color combinations and her own personal “modern baroque” style. She created interesting public spaces including hotels, casinos, theaters, department stores, private corporate offices and jet interiors that everyone could enjoy. The Joanna Gaines of her time, being a #girlboss and top interior designer in not only New York, but also across the USA, Draper broadened her entrepreneurial resume by creating her own furniture line for Schumacher and had her own column in Good Housekeeping Magazine. Not your typical housewife, Dorothy Draper is an inspiration and taught Lauren that women in the interior design business can be innovative, creative, and think outside the box.

 

Frank Lloyd Wright – American Architect, Interior Designer, Educator & Curator. An icon of Tammy’s.

A rebel pioneer of the architectural world, Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic career stemmed almost 70 years. He remained passionate for his craft much like Tammy has for over 30 years. His dedication and talent was always ever changing and adapting. Wright was a forerunner in his field that, in Tammy’s opinion, changed the way people live within their own homes. Incorporating “family rooms” within his plans and utilizing modern technology and materials of the period.

Tammy’s favorite residential structure design by Wright is the famous Fallingwater in Pennsylvania. She loves the way the structure fits effortlessly into its environment. Seemingly undisturbing to the surroundings showcasing nature and nest at its best for human inhabitants.

Favorite Wright quote: “Form follows Function”.
That has been misunderstood, form and function should be one,
joined in a spiritual union.

Recognized as being in part, one of the creators of the Prairie Style derived from the Arts and Crafts movement. This style is most seen throughout the midwestern states – all influenced by natural materials. Tammy has always been inspired by nature and the environment in her own design work and believes the window can be the most essential part of any room. More importantly, it’s what is outside the window that counts and how the surroundings are integrated within the home.

Ralph Lauren – American Fashion Designer, Philanthropist, Business Executive. Leslie’s Timeless Favorite.

 

In 1983, in the days before major fashion houses had furnishing lines, designer Ralph Lauren launched his first home collection. It expanded his vision of a thoughtful stylish life where he applied his style to how he would want to live. Whether it be upscale penthouse, english, western, coastal – it was always all American.

Each interior has its own distinct style, its own vision of the good life and each tells a different, but complementary story. When asked what links an interior all together, he says, “It’s in the eye, the taste, and the spirit of the dream.”

Leslie began her career in 1985, just as Ralph Lauren was making his way into interiors. He has been someone that Leslie has admired, respected and can always identify with and has grown with as well!

A true representation of the American dream – tasteful and timeless style!

 

What is it to influence: A person who inspires or guides the actions of others.

Your friends at LL&A Interior Design

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Online Design

akstudiodesigns

Online Design graphicThe landscape of Interior Design is always on the move. With its many nuances, our industry offers a variety of platforms to achieve the needs of any consumer.

LL&A is proud to announce our Online Design Assistance.

We allow you the leverage to seek premium interior design services by one of our professional designers without ever leaving your home. Our program has been built to serve the needs of the most discriminating consumer in a proficient and economical manner. Equipped with talented designers and technology, we conveniently create spaces designed specifically for you, on budget and on time. The products chosen will be sourced from the world wide web and ready for you to order at your leisure in the privacy of your own home.

Our process is simple.

interior design virtual design services

  • Complete a brief online questionnaire so we can get to know you.
  • Send us digital photos of your space along with the dimensions and any pieces you own and wish to incorporate into your room.
  • Select a style genre that speaks to you from the library of photos we will share with you.
  • LL&A will send you a digital box complete with a visual concept, space plate and 3D image of what you can expect your room to look like.

Space Plan

Space plate for furniture placement.

LL&A Virtual Rendering

LL&A Virtual Rendering

LL&A Virtual Rendering

LL&A Virtual Rendering
  • Once approved, expect a specification sheet complete with details of paints, floor coverings, wall treatments, artwork, lamps, accessories and all items needed to complete the installation along with instructions.
  • Receive your Shopping List and order your products to complete your room styling.

Real Image 2

Final Product

Real Image 1

Final Product

The process is quick, easy, online, and budget friendly.

Email our office for further details at sarah@leslielewisdesign.com

Your friends at LL&A Interior Design

#onlinedesign

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From our house to yours.

akstudiodesigns

As working women, we are all a combination of strong, independent, talented and resourceful achievers. Our personalities all vary which create the melting pot within our work family. Each of us have our own interests and outlets which we thought would be fun to share in this month’s blog. From recipes to rest – check us out and enjoy!

Welcome to our World graphic

 

 

Leslie:

In order for me to do what I love and do my very best work – I must be my very best self and also the very best wife, mother, daughter, friend, co-worker and tribe member! Steps for me to be my very best self start with these little things that make a big impact on my daily life.

 

Give thanks and begin every morning with a simple, thankful prayer and a great cup of coffee. Believe in the miracles that are presented to me each and every day. My new favorite acronym is GDT – “God Did That”.

Let go of expectations. Not much surprises me anymore and I just try to smile and roll with it! See the opportunities that are presented to me each and every day as a new way to stretch, grow and learn.

Disconnect and get outside. I love to run, ride my bike or catch an exercise class. Physical fitness always makes me feel better afterwards.

Finally, I love getting home, putting on my comfy clothes and giving thanks for a full day while enjoying my wine! My new favorite toast is “Thanks Be to God!”

And So It Is!

 

 

Tammy:

Yoga is my ticket to a healthy me.

 

Practicing yoga is an essential part of my life. It takes the focus off of life’s daily challenges, routines, commitments and overall “noise” that the day can present. Yoga supplies me with time to myself to be quiet and thankful for all things and people that surround me. It allows me to go somewhere else in my mind and focus on myself, unplug and put myself to rest.

Some days it may be a simple 10 minute stretch before I start my day with a few cat/cow, forward bends and downward dog. Another day may be a little more intense with 30 minutes on my mat. But my favorite time spent are the classes I attend at Heat Yoga. I am blessed with two great friends who are yoga instructors who have taught me the tools and techniques to experience the most from my practices. I can turn up my time with a Bikram flow or dial it down with restorative – whatever my body and mind need. I customize it for myself. I especially enjoy hot yoga and love a good healthy sweat. It feels like I have been cleansed from the inside out and walk away feeling calm and detoxed. Yoga works for me, after 10 years I am not an expert by any means, but in my world I feel confidant in my skills and feel stronger after each practice.

Namaste.

 

 

Dawn:

Staying organized is the key to my sanity.

If something comes in, something must go out!  With clothes it’s easy to get overwhelmed quickly, so whenever I purchase something, I look at my closet and get rid of something.  I use the “one-year” rule. Anything that hasn’t been used or worn within a one-year period is fair game!  By doing this I’m able to keep my wardrobe manageable and my closet space needs to a minimum.

Go to the grocery store armed with a menu and a list!  I spend a little more time at home to look for the items needed to prepare the menu meals, but I save time and money at the store. Meal Prep! I don’t mind leftovers so I will prepare one or two meals over the weekend and use them the following week as a main meal or a portion of my main meal.  I try to keep a cut up salad or cut up veggies on hand to use as well since cutting veggies is time consuming and during the week I don’t have a lot of time to cook.  This helps me eat healthier foods and stay away from the “quick meals” that can be very tempting, but unhealthy, when I’m tired and don’t feel like making dinner.

 

 

Whitley:

I’m a bargain shopper through and through. Clothing, furniture, home accessories and everything in between. I VERY rarely pay full price for anything – call me cheap, but I prefer resourceful! In addition to bargain shopping, I’m also a looker. I love to browse and wander aimlessly through stores (in hopes of coming across a great deal, of course).

Here are a few of my favorite spots to get lost.

*note: I’m a firm believer that one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. I have a slight obsession with thrift/antique stores. Walking through these stores is like exploring a magical treasure trove. You never know what you’ll find!

Furniture & Home Accessories

Mellwood Antique Mall – If you’re local to the area and love thrift shopping, this is a must! Booth after booth and room after room, they have it all. Clothing, home accessories, furniture, jewelry – you name it!

Joe Ley Antiques – Again, another local must! Quirky and so much to see. I love the history behind old/vintage items and they have so many unique finds!

Peddler’s Mall – Commonly referred to as a “flea-tique”, some junk and some gold. That’s the thrill of the hunt!

Habitat ReStores – ReStores offer both new and used items. Profits from Habitat ReStores are used both in your local community and around the world, so a win-win all around.

HomeGoods – This one shouldn’t need an introduction. A good place to rummage for deals if you’re weary of secondhand!

I also love attending local arts and craft fairs. Check out Fleur de Flea or The Flea Off Market!

Clothing

Thrift stores – Louisville has A TON of cool thrift stores. Think more “boutique” setting and less Goodwill (although Goodwill can be a great option too!).

TJ Maxx – Many of my clothes come from here. Discount retailer with both boutique/designer brands.

Nordstrom Rack – I worked for Nordstrom for several years so this will forever be a favorite of mine. A vast majority of the merchandise here is from Nordstrom (AKA designer looks at a fraction of the original cost!). I almost always buy my designer shoes and handbags from here. Great prices/great quality on clothing and accessories!

If you feel up to the challenge, check out some of these spots!

 

Sarah:

Makeup Mania! I’m such a “when you look good, you feel good” kind of girl which is probably why I am such a makeup guru! I love cosmetics and skincare products.  Yes, I am confidant in my own skin, but appreciate products that enhance my features, skin and complexion.    

I love experimenting with new products, techniques and looks, but of course have my favorites that I cannot live without.

I love Smashbox’s Studio Skin foundation. It’s a full coverage foundation, has a dewy finish, is cruelty free, and doesn’t break the bank!

My next go to is Kat Von Dee’s Shade & Light Contouring kit. I have tried a variety of different bronzers and this is by far the best formula in my opinion and is the most economical. It is easy to use and the results are flawless.   

My favorite products that are a little more expensive, but worth the investment are Becca’s Champagne Pop Highlighter and Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray. The Becca’s highlighter will give you a summer glow even in the dead of winter. Urban Decay’s All Nighter Setting Spray is awesome. After you finish your makeup routine, mist on your face and you are good to go for the next 24 hours! This is by far my favorite and a must have. Being in our field, we are constantly on the go in the rain, snow, wind and heat, and this product will stay with you. When I am not working, you can usually find me outside with my Fiancé and dogs either boating, fishing, or camping. Needless to say that the Urban Decay setting spray is a godsend – no matter what I am doing or where I am at I’ll have a fresh look all day. #cannotlivewithoutit

Looking my best and putting in the effort makes me feel confident and the best version of myself. As women, a little polish is all it can take to bring out the best in us! #lookingpretty

 

Lauren:

I love to cook for family and friends.

I’m a fan of the Pioneer Woman’s recipes. They are usually easy to make and are crowd pleasers every time. I found this one to be a favorite of my husband’s, Cody. The Pig Cake. Don’t let the name fool you – it’s delicious, simple and perfect for any party or potluck!

  • FOR THE CAKE:
  • 1 box (18.25 Oz. Box) Yellow Cake Mix
  • 1 stick Margarine, Softened
  • 1 can (14 Oz. Can) Mandarin Oranges, Drained, 1/2 Cup Juice Reserved
  • 4 whole Eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

 

  • FOR THE TOPPING:
  • 1 package (4 Oz. Box) Vanilla Instant Pudding Mix
  • 1 can (20 Oz. Can) Crushed Pineapple, Juice Reserved
  • 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar
  • 4 ounces, fluid Frozen Whipped Topping (such As Cool Whip)
  • Extra Mandarin Orange Slices, For Garnish

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. For the cake, combine cake mix, margarine, 1/2 cup juice from the mandarin oranges, eggs, and vanilla. Beat for four minutes on medium-high. Add drained oranges and beat again until pieces are broken up and small. Pour batter into greased and floured 9 x 13 inch baking pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely. Once cake is cool, blend juice from drained pineapples with the vanilla pudding mix. Add powdered sugar and mix, then mix in whipped topping. Stir in drained pineapple. Spread on cooled cake and refrigerate several hours. To serve, cut cake into squares and top each square with a mandarin orange slice and a smile!

 

2019 Group Photo in Shop

 

We hope you enjoyed a peek into our fun-filled world.

Your grateful friends at LL&A Interior Design.

#indianagirls #liveloveappreciate #mindfulandgrateful