Welcome to the blog, I’m Sabine! Interior Designer, candle creator, mom of 2, and lover of calm, beautiful spaces. I help busy women create homes that feel intentional, functional, and full of joy - one room at a time. Grab your coffee, get inspired, and let’s make your home feel like you again.
Love a well-designed room? Start with a signature scent. Explore the Belfong Candle Collection inspired by legacy, created for the senses.
Need a color palette or design guide? Shop my eBooks + digital boards for instant inspiration.
The Importance of Adding Scent to Your Home
When it comes to designing a home, we often focus on the visual elements – the colors, the furniture, the layout. But one aspect that is often overlooked yet incredibly powerful is the sense of smell. Scent has the unique ability to evoke memories, create atmosphere, and tell a story. As an interior designer and a candle lover, I’ve always believed that a well-designed room engages all five senses. Here’s why adding scent to your home is so important and how it can transform your living space.
“Scent has the unique ability to evoke memories, create an atmosphere, and tell a story.”
Our scent experience during our Candle Launch Party
Scent: The Unseen Storyteller
For me, scent is more than just a fragrance; it’s a part of a home’s story. Growing up, the smell of flowers, spices, and herbs filled our house, creating a sense of warmth and belonging. These scents became a part of my daily life, tying together moments and memories that defined our home.
As I began my journey as an interior designer, I realized how deeply scents could impact our perception of a space. A well-chosen scent can instantly transport you to another place or time, invoking nostalgia, comfort, and happiness. For instance, a candle's fresh, citrusy aroma might remind you of a relaxing vacation by the beach, while a soothing lavender scent can bring a sense of calm and clarity after a long day.
customer experiencing our luxe noir candle
Creating a Unique Home Experience
Incorporating scent into your home design is about more than just choosing a pleasant fragrance; it’s about curating an experience that resonates with you and your family. Here are a few tips on how to do this:
Choose Scents with Personal Significance: Consider the scents that bring you joy and comfort. Maybe it’s the smell of fresh pine that reminds you of childhood holidays, or the aroma of jasmine that evokes summer evenings.
Use Scent to Enhance Your Mood: Different scents can influence your mood and energy levels. For relaxation and a sense of grounding, opt for lavender, chamomile, or sandalwood. For a burst of energy, try citrus or peppermint. For an increase sense of positivity try jasmine. To help with a sense of focus or clarity try peppermint.
Layer Scents Throughout Your Home: Don’t limit yourself to just one fragrance. Different rooms can have different scents that complement their purpose – a calming scent in the bedroom, a refreshing aroma in the kitchen, and an inviting fragrance in the living room.
Introducing The Belfong Candle Collection
With this philosophy in mind, I’m thrilled to introduce The Belfong Candle Collection. This limited edition line of luxury candles has been crafted to enhance your home’s story with scents that evoke relaxation, clarity, and nostalgia. Each candle is designed to be a piece of the puzzle that makes your home uniquely yours.
Luxe noir scented candle
The Belfong Candle Collection is now available for sale exclusively through Georgette Marise Interiors. Our official launch party at Expect Lace on June 27th was a huge success. Your overwhelming support has truly warmed my heart.
Now, here's the exciting (and slightly urgent) news: I only have 10 candles left for sale! Once these are sold out, you’ll have to wait for another three months before I release more. These limited edition candles, with their luxurious scent notes of bergamot and matcha or vetiver and vanilla, are designed to elevate your mood and transform your space.
So, if you haven't secured your Belfong Candle yet, now is the time! I don’t want you to miss out on this chance to bring a touch of elegance and tranquility into your home.
Our candles Élégant and Luxe Noir candle
Your home should be a sanctuary that reflects your essence, and scent is a vital part of that experience. Let The Belfong Candle Collection help you create a space that is not only beautiful to look at but also a delight to your senses. Head over to The Belfong Candle Collection to place your order before they’re all gone. Trust me, you don’t want to wait three months to experience the magic of The Belfong Candle Collection.
Light up your home with a story that’s uniquely yours.
Celebrating Mothers Through Space
Mother’s Day is a time to show appreciation for all the wonderful things moms do. What better way to honor the mothers in our lives than by creating a space just for them? Whether it’s a cozy reading nook, a vibrant craft corner, or a tranquil home spa area, dedicating a part of your home to mom’s relaxation and creativity can be a truly thoughtful gift. Here are some tips on how to transform a small space into a personal retreat for the special mom in your life.
Identify the Perfect Spot: Start by choosing a space in your home that can be dedicated to mom’s activities. It doesn’t have to be large; even a small corner or a window alcove can be perfect. The key is to find a spot that is seldom used and can be converted into a personal sanctuary.
Define the Space Based on Her Interests: Think about what mom loves to do during her downtime. If she’s a book lover, a reading nook with a comfortable chair, good lighting, and a small bookshelf might be ideal. For the crafty mom, consider setting up a crafting station with storage for her tools and materials. If she loves to unwind, a mini home spa with a cozy robe, scented candles, and soothing music could be perfect.
Focus on Comfort: Comfort is key in creating a special space. Invest in a good-quality, ergonomic chair for reading or crafting, or a plush armchair with soft pillows for a relaxation zone. Make sure the flooring is soft underfoot, perhaps with a stylish rug that also adds a touch of warmth and color.
Personalize the Décor: Personal touches can make the space feel even more special. Include framed photos of family memories, artwork that she adores, or items that reflect her interests, such as vintage craft tools or a collection of classic novels. Choose a color scheme that she loves to make the area truly hers.
Add Thoughtful Details: It’s the little details that can make a space feel truly welcoming. For a reading nook, add a small side table for her coffee cup or a stylish lamp. In a craft corner, include ample lighting and a pegboard for organizing supplies. For a spa area, place luxurious bath salts and fluffy towels to enhance the experience.
Keep It Organized and Clutter-Free: Ensure that the space stays relaxing and conducive to enjoyment by keeping it organized. Use smart storage solutions that minimize clutter. Decorative boxes, hidden compartments, and wall shelves can keep supplies out of sight but within easy reach.
Gift Idea: From Chaos to Calm: Master Home Organization like a PRO
Once you've created the perfect space for mom, help her keep it perfect with From Chaos to Calm, an eBook filled with expert advice on home organizing. This comprehensive guide offers practical tips and solutions to keep her sanctuary clutter-free and peaceful, making it an excellent Mother’s Day gift that complements any of these space ideas.
Creating a special space for mom not only gives her a place to enjoy her interests but also shows how much you care about her comfort and happiness. This Mother’s Day, let’s give mom something that keeps on giving—space to breathe, create, and relax.
Happy Mother's Day to all the amazing moms out there!
Get the Look: Dinner Party for Small Spaces
Get the look: Dinner PArty for Small Spaces
I'm thrilled to share with you the insider secrets from our recent workshop at AVE Living in King of Prussia, PA. Hosted at this luxurious apartment community, we delved into the art of creating breathtaking tablescapes perfect for intimate gatherings. From shared common areas to model apartments and finally, the exquisite Sky Lounge, we explored the journey of transforming spaces for unforgettable dining experiences.
Creating a stunning tablescape isn't just about aesthetics; it's about crafting an atmosphere that fosters connection, conversation, and unforgettable memories. So, let's dive into how you can recreate the magic of our workshop right in your own home.
dinner party for small spaces mood board
Setting the Scene. First things first, set the stage for your soirée. Choose a theme or color palette that reflects your personal style and the vibe you want to create. For our workshop, we opted for a sophisticated yet inviting ambiance, blending soft neutrals with touches of gold for a timeless appeal.
Layering with Love. The key to a visually captivating tablescape is layering. Start with a quality tablecloth or runner as your base or use the surface of your table, then layer on chargers, dinner plates, salad plates, and bowls in complementary hues and textures. Mix and match patterns and materials for added depth and interest.
Centerpiece Sensation. No tablescape is complete without a show-stopping centerpiece. Whether it's a lush floral arrangement on the island, a collection of candles across the dining table, or an artful combination of both, let your creativity shine. Consider incorporating elements of varying heights to add dimension and drama to the table. All of the floral arrangements were exclusively crafted by Georgette Marise Interiors.
Finishing Touches. Don't overlook the importance of the little details. From elegant flatware and glassware to decorative napkin rings and place cards, these finishing touches elevate the overall look and feel of your tablescape.
Now, let's talk about where you can find these exquisite pieces to recreate the magic at home. Many of the items featured in our workshop are available for purchase, ensuring that you can effortlessly bring the same level of sophistication and style to your own entertaining endeavors.
Whether you're hosting in a shared common space, a cozy apartment, or a luxurious Sky Lounge, the principles of tablescaping remain the same. It's all about infusing your space with personality, charm, and a touch of elegance.
So, what are you waiting for? Channel your inner host or hostess extraordinaire and start planning your next unforgettable gathering. With a little creativity and the right accessories, you'll be well on your way to hosting the soirée of your dreams.
Until next time, happy entertaining!
Spring Into Organization: Kitchen Storage Solutions
As the days grow longer and the promise of warmer weather beckons, many of us find ourselves gearing up for that annual ritual known as spring cleaning. It's a time to shake off the cobwebs of winter and breathe new life into our living spaces. And what better place to start than the heart of the home - the kitchen?
As an interior designer with a passion for both aesthetics and functionality, I've learned that the right storage containers can make all the difference in keeping a home organized and clutter-free. So, as Spring Cleaning approaches, I'm excited to share some of my favorite kitchen storage solutions, room by room.
Declutter Before You Organize
Before diving into the world of storage containers, it's crucial to declutter. Empty out those cabinets and drawers and take stock of what you have. Donate or discard items you no longer need or use. Trust me, you'll thank yourself later.
Clear Containers: See What You Have
One of my go-to solutions for kitchen organization is clear containers. Whether they're made of acrylic or glass, these containers allow you to see exactly what's inside, making it easier to find what you need. In the fridge and freezer, clear acrylic bins are perfect for storing everything from proteins to frozen veggies. In the pantry and cabinets, clear and wood containers with labels help keep dry goods organized and accessible.
Maximize Space with Stackable Bins and Organizers
To make the most of limited cabinet and pantry space, I swear by stackable bins and organizers. These handy tools allow you to create layers of storage, maximizing every inch of available space. Whether it's a three-tiered organizer for spices or stackable bins for canned goods, these solutions are game-changers for small kitchens.
Drawer Organization: The Key to a Tidy Kitchen
Don't forget about the drawers! A cluttered junk drawer can quickly derail even the most organized kitchen. That's why I love using short clear bins of various widths (especially for the junk drawer). From utensils to cooking gadgets, these bins keep everything in its place and make finding what you need a breeze.
kitchen organization - shown: 24 Slot Coffee Pod Holder (#2)
Curious to see the storage pieces I've used in my own home and vacation rental in Ventnor? Check out some of my favorite kitchen organizers on the mood board. And if you find something you love, know that I may receive a small commission for any purchases made through the links - thank you for your support!
Kitchen Organization mood board
Metal Hanging Holders with Adhesive Labels & mDesign Home Organization Labels - Preprinted Label Stickers for Kitchen Pantry Storage
For those looking for an even deeper dive into home organization, be sure to grab a copy of my eBook, "From Chaos to Calm: Master Home Organization Like a PRO." It's packed with tips and tricks to help you tackle every area of your home. Plus, you'll receive a bonus guide, "Forever Organized" with worksheets for every room in your home to help you stay on top of your organization journey for good.
Home Organization e-Book
With the right storage containers and a little bit of elbow grease, you can transform your kitchen into a functional and beautiful space that brings joy to your daily routine. So, let's roll up our sleeves and get ready to spring into organization together!
Next… Organizing the Mudroom
As we wrap up our tour of kitchen organization, I invite you to stay tuned for the next installment in our Spring Cleaning series, where we'll tackle another high-traffic area of the home: the mudroom. From shoe storage to coat hooks, I'll share my top tips for keeping this transitional space tidy all year round. https://sovrn.co/wp1r2ji
How to Revitalize Your Home for the New Year
As we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, there's something invigorating about the idea of a fresh start. The fall decor is faded, the holiday decorations are put away…why does everything look so bare? The beginning of a new year gives you the opportunity to embrace the spirit of renewal by giving your living space a makeover for the upcoming year. In this blog post, we'll explore simple yet impactful ways to refresh your home and infuse it with renewed energy. And guess what? I'm here to offer you the opportunity to have me, your interior designer, at your service for a day!
Embrace a New Color Palette. Start by considering a new color scheme for your space. Whether it's subtle pastels, bold jewel tones, or calming neutrals, a fresh coat of paint or some new accessories in your chosen palette can instantly transform the ambiance.
Declutter and Reorganize. Out with the old and in with the organized! Take this time to declutter your home, donating or discarding items that no longer serve you. Reorganize your belongings to create a more functional and visually pleasing environment.
Add Greenery. Bring a touch of nature indoors with houseplants. Not only do they improve air quality, but they also add a vibrant and refreshing element to any room. Consider a mix of small potted plants, succulents, or even a statement indoor tree.
Personalize Your Space. Infuse your personality into your home by incorporating personal touches. Whether it's creating a gallery wall with family photos, displaying travel souvenirs, or hanging handmade art, these elements make your space uniquely yours.
Hire Me as your Designer for a Day
Now, here's the exciting part! How about having a professional interior designer like myself work my magic on your space for a day? I'm offering a limited time service called Ask Sabine! Interior Designer Access where I'll spend a day with you, understanding your vision and transforming your room into a personalized haven.
What's Included:
15-minute Design Call to discuss preferences and goals for your room
On-site Visit to assess the space, discuss ideas, and provide immediate recommendations for enhancements or changes (also available virtually)
Collaborative Design Session exploring layout options, color schemes, furniture placement, and any other relevant design elements.
Styling and Arrangement. Watch as I rearrange and style your furniture and decor to create a harmonious and balanced atmosphere.
Shopping Assistance. If desired, we can explore local stores or online options to find the perfect additions to complement your refreshed space.
How to Book:
Ready to kickstart the new year with a revitalized home? Simply click here to reserve your spot!
A new year deserves a fresh and vibrant home to match. By following these simple tips and taking advantage of my exclusive day-long interior design service, you can transform your space into a haven of style and comfort. Let's make this the year your home truly shines!
Transforming Your Dinner Party Experience with Florals: Q & A with Floral Artist Kathleen Cecilia Ennis
Flowers, in all their natural beauty, can set the mood and create a welcoming atmosphere. In today’s post, I’m diving into a topic that's close to my heart – the transformative power of flowers in dinner party decor. Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner for friends or a larger gathering, the right floral arrangements can be a game-changer. They add a touch of elegance and a splash of color that captivates your guests as soon as they walk in.
As an interior designer and avid entertainer I've witnessed firsthand the magic flowers can bring to a gathering. And what better way to explore this than by introducing you to a talented local florist who knows all about the language of flowers?
I recently had the pleasure of chatting with my friend Kathleen Cecilia Ennis, owner of Cecilia’s Flowers & a floral artist whose passion for blooms is truly infectious. We delved into the significance of incorporating florals into your dinner party decor and how they can elevate the overall ambiance.
Q & A with florist Kathleen Ennis
Sabine: How long have you been a florist, and what inspired you to specialize in floral design for events?
Kathleen: I started my floral design business in 2019. I have always loved the event industry and more specifically the wedding industry. I have been in the bridal world since 2015 selling wedding dresses at Kleinfeld Bridal. So when we moved from NYC to the Philly suburbs in 2018 I decided to specialize in floral design and make my dream of owning a business a reality.
I chose floral design because after planning my own wedding in 2018 I loved the flexibility and creativity my own florist had with her life and her business. Making art out of living beautiful flowers was about as great of a dream as I could have imagined.
Sabine: Can you describe your floral style and the types of events you typically work on? In your opinion what makes the perfect dinner party?
Kathleen: My floral style is very natural and wild. I love a table scape that looks like a live garden or a bouquet that has the charm of being “picked off the side of the road”. I love to work on weddings, but I do the occasional shower or small event as well! I think the perfect dinner party includes first and foremost, great company. The rest I would consider luxurious details in comparison to who you share your time with. I love intimate cozy candlelight and definitely fresh colorful arrangement of flowers, good food that can be shared and a playlist everyone can jam to.
Courtesy of Instagram: @cecilias.flowers kathleen cecilia ennis
“I think the perfect dinner party includes first and foremost, great company. The rest I would consider luxurious details in comparison to who you share your time with. I love intimate cozy candlelight and definitely fresh colorful arrangement of flowers, good food that can be shared and a playlist everyone can jam to. ”
Sabine: How do you approach creating a custom floral arrangement that complements the theme or style of a dinner party?
Kathleen: When creating an arrangement that compliments a theme or a style of dinner party, I first start with a color scheme and a shape I want to go with. Then I decide on textures and what’s in season and go from there. When creating the arrangement, I use inspiration from my client like a picture and then create in the moment with the products I have.
Sabine: Are you open to incorporating specific colors, themes, or personal preferences into your designs?
Kathleen: I love to incorporate specific colors or themes requested from a client. It helps me go outside of my normal comfort zone to stretch my creativity.
Sabine: Can you provide examples of seasonal flowers that work well for different types of events?
Kathleen: There are different seasonal flowers I love to use. In the spring I have pick of the liter. I have every color and shape and flower I could ever want to work with. Winter I need to be a little more creative, but I have greenery that I don’t get to work with and branches with berries that add beautiful winter touch. Fall is the best time for beautiful Dahlias, Spring I get to use fresh Peonies, Winter I get to use the huge blooms of an Amaryllis.
Sabine: What are your recommendations for creating stunning tablescapes and centerpieces that enhance the dining experience?
Kathleen: My recommendation for creating a beautiful tablescape and enhancing a dining experience would be to add interesting flowers that add texture to an arrangement. Maybe the texture of the flower is something people don’t see all the time so it causes conversation. Another thing to consider is an arrangement that won’t block conversation. The worst thing is sitting at a table and not being able to talk to a friend because there is a huge centerpiece in the way. So as much as I love the tables cape to be aesthetically pleasing, there needs to be functionality as well. People need to be able to see across the table and have a place to put their drink.
Courtesy of Instagram: @cecilias.flowers
Sabine: Outside of the dining table, where are some other area you would suggest having fresh florals for a dinner party?
Kathleen: At a dinner party I love fresh florals not only on the tables, but in spaces that people gather. IT’s all about the experience for me. I like to put fresh florals on a bar area, a fireplace mantle, or in a hanging chandelier.
Sabine: For hosts with budget constraints, what are some cost-effective yet impactful floral options for a dinner party?
Kathleen: If there are budgets to keep in mind I always suggest adding greenery to make an arrangement bigger or using bud vases with florals to cover a bigger space using less flowers.
Sabine: What advice do you have for maintaining the freshness and longevity of floral arrangements throughout the evening and after the dinner party?
Kathleen: To maintain freshness during your dinner party, always be sure the water source is full. Heat of a candle or sunlight can also impact the freshness and longevity of an arrangement. So consider keeping the flowers out of direct sunlight or not lighting candles until the last minute to help this.
Sabine: How do you work with hosts or event planners to understand their vision and preferences for the floral decor?
Kathleen: To work best with hosts and event planners I love to hear about what has and hasn’t worked in past events. I am always learning and wanting to share tips and tricks.
Sabine: Are there current trends in floral design that work particularly well for dinner parties?
Kathleen: The current trend I have been obsessed with is COLOR! I am so happy people are getting away from a neutral palette and going bold with color. I believe a colorful palette works great at a dinner party because it creates interest and conversations, and most importantly… happiness!
Courtesy of Instagram: @cecilias.flowers
Sabine: How can hosts get in touch with you to create a custom arrangement?
Kathleen: Anyone can get in touch with me through email - ceciliasflowers623@gmail.com. Direct message on Instagram @cecilias.flowers
Whether you're someone looking to spruce up their dinner parties or a lover of all things design and decor, consider the transformative power of florals. Stay tuned for more exciting interviews and insights on creating memorable dinner party experiences, and don't forget to check out the amazing work of Kathleen Cecilia Ennis for a dose of floral inspiration!
Join my waitlist for my upcoming FREE Masterclass How to Create a Memorable Dinner Party Without Being Overwhelmed and be the first to secure your spot! https://georgettemarise.com/masterclass-waitlist
Elevate Your Holiday Dinner Parties with Stylish Interior Design Decor
The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by hosting unforgettable dinner parties? As an interior designer and avid entertainer based in Pennsylvania, I'm excited to share some tips on how to elevate the look of your dinner party and make this festive season truly special.
Elegance for Timeless Celebrations: For a timeless and sophisticated atmosphere, consider a classic holiday dinner party look. Think rich colors, beautiful glassware, and ambient lighting. Incorporate elements like deep burgundy, maroons, shades of plum, gold accents, ivory tones, and elegant table settings. Check out these classic pieces to elevate your soirée:
Holiday Dinner Party Mood board
Modern Minimalism with a Festive Twist: For those who appreciate clean lines and a modern aesthetic, a minimalistic holiday dinner party might be the way to go. Keep things simple yet festive with neutral tones like classic black hues, rich dark green tones, softened by hints of pinks and lilacs for an unexpected twist. Incorporate seasonal touches such as string lights and candles to bring some holiday cheer! Here are some modern picks to achieve this look:
winter dinner party mood board
Whether you opt for classic elegance or modern minimalism, the key is to infuse your personality into the design. As you plan your holiday dinner parties, remember that the joy is in the details. Each element contributes to the overall ambiance, making your guests feel not only welcome but immersed in the magic of the season.
Ready to elevate your holiday dinner parties to a whole new level of style? Explore the curated looks I've shared and transform your celebrations into unforgettable moments of warmth and sophistication. Click the links to effortlessly shop for the pieces that catch your eye, and let the magic of design infuse joy into your festivities.
This holiday season, let's celebrate not just the festivities, but the art of bringing people together in spaces that reflect joy and good design. Cheers to a season filled with laughter, good company, and the beauty of a well-designed dinner party! Happy hosting!
Just a heads up, some of the links provided are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the links—thanks for supporting the blog!
The Quick Fix: How a Day with an Interior Designer Can Transform Your Home
Do you walk around your home, loving some rooms and but not others? Do you flip through photos on Instagram or Pinterest asking, “How do I get my home to look like that?”. Good design is intentional. When you look or walk into a beautiful space even if it has a “lived-in” look, it’s important to know that every material and finish selected, color palette chosen, and furniture placement was part of an overall plan. That plan is the design. Chances are the plan was created by a professional interior designer who created a design based on the needs of the end user aka - the client.
Good design is intentional.
When it comes to designing a home there are a lot of moving parts. I usually compare it to a book. The cover gives you an overall feel of the tone and style of the book before you dig into the chapters. Each chapter ends and transitions into the following chapter which either picks up where the last chapter ended or gives a different scene or angle to the overall story. Interior designers interview their clients, identifying their needs, desires, lifestyles, and goals to translate that to their homes. Each room in a home is a chapter - having its own identity but part of a big picture.
Hiring an interior designer can truly change the way you live in your home. If you’re looking to work on one chapter at a time, hiring an interior designer for a day can be an efficient way to improve the look and feel of your home. Here are some reasons you may want to consider hiring a designer for a day.
Expertise and Professional Advice. Interior designers have the knowledge and expertise to transform spaces, ensuring they are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. By hiring a designer for a day, you can tap into their professional advice and get expert recommendations on colors, layouts, furniture placements, and decor choices that align with your style and needs.
Budget-Friendly Solutions. Interior designers can work within your budget, helping you make the most of your available resources. They can provide cost-effective suggestions for renovations, furniture, and accessories, and help you avoid costly mistakes that may arise from DIY attempts. Keep in mind when hiring a designer and purchasing furnishings, a higher quality product or service often comes with a higher price tag.
Save Time. Designing a space can be time-consuming, especially if you're not familiar with the process. Interior designers are well-equipped to make efficient decisions, select appropriate materials, and manage projects effectively. Hiring a designer for a day can save you valuable time by making quick decisions that will change the look and feel of your room, especially if you have a tight schedule.
Fresh Perspectives. Interior designers bring a fresh and creative perspective to your space. If you have a designer at your home for the day they can suggest innovative design ideas that you might not have thought of on your own, helping you achieve a unique and personalized look for your home.
Problem Solving. Interior designers are skilled at problem-solving and can address issues such as layout challenges, awkward spaces, and lighting problems. Whether it's reconfiguring your furniture arrangement or recommending the right lighting fixtures, they can help you find practical solutions to enhance your living space.
Hiring an interior designer for a day can be a smart investment, particularly if you're looking for professional guidance, want to avoid costly mistakes, and desire a more efficient and aesthetically pleasing outcome for your home that reflects your personality. It allows you to access their expertise and creative insights without committing to a long-term project. Never worked with a designer before? Be sure to read my post on 5 Things you Should Do When Working with an Interior Designer.
Do you have a room that is in need of some changes but you don’t know where to start and don’t have the time to figure it all out? Ask me for help! No really, ASK ME! Hire me for a day and I will come to your home and help you complete a room in your home in one day. I will survey your room, discuss some of your goals and vision for your space and come up with a plan. While at your home I will make some changes, whether that’s moving some furniture around or hanging some wall decor up or maybe even go shopping for some decor pieces. Together we can make major improvements to your room in ONE DAY!
For a limited time I am giving clients that opportunity to hire me for a day! It’s called Ask Sabine! Interior Designer Access. My time is limited and so it this offer. This is your time to pick my brain while getting access to me in real-time! Reserve your spot now before this offer is over! Comment below and share with me what room you want to complete in one day.
Cozy Up your Space: A Guide to Preparing your Home for Fall
As the leaves begin to change and the temperature starts to drop, it's time to give your home a warm and inviting makeover for the upcoming fall season. I personally love the fall season. It sets a fresh start for me - the beginning of school, a new football season, and my birthday month to name a few! From rich, earthy colors to cozy textures and subtle decor changes, there are countless ways to transform your space into a haven of autumnal charm. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through getting your home ready for fall so that you can embrace the season with open arms.
layers of textures to give this living room a warm aesthetic. designed by Georgette MArise Interiors
Embrace Earthy Tones. Fall is all about celebrating the beauty of nature's transformation, so it's the perfect time to introduce earthy tones into your home. Consider replacing summer accents with warm, deep colors like burnt orange, forest green, and rich brown. Swap out lightweight, bright-colored textiles for darker, cozier fabrics like velvet, wool, and flannel. These changes will instantly make your home feel more autumn-ready.
Layer Up with Textures. One of the joys of fall is snuggling up in warm, comfortable layers, and your home can reflect this feeling too. Add soft, plush throws and cushions to your sofa and chairs. Consider a thick, textured area rug to add warmth to your floors. Don’t be afraid to play around with additional textures such as wood, rattan, and knitted fabrics to create a cozy, tactile atmosphere.
Create a Seasonal Centerpiece. Creating a seasonal centerpiece for your dining or coffee table is a simple yet effective way to usher in the fall spirit. Gather a mix of pumpkins, gourds, and autumn leaves for a rustic and natural look. Add candles in warm hues for a touch of elegance. Your centerpiece will not only be visually appealing but will also infuse your space with the delightful scents of fall.
Enhance Lighting. As the days grow shorter, lighting becomes even more crucial. Invest in soft, warm lighting options like table lamps, floor lamps, and candles. Consider using fairy lights or string lights to add a touch of magic to certain areas of your home decor. Dimmable lights can create a cozy, intimate atmosphere for those chilly autumn evenings.
Swap Out Seasonal Decor. Finally, consider swapping out your summer decor for fall-themed items. Replace lightweight curtains with heavier drapes to keep the warmth in. Change out your outdoor cushions and wreaths with fall versions. A front porch adorned with pumpkins and mums can create a warm welcome for visitors.
Getting your home ready for fall is all about creating a cozy, inviting space where you can fully embrace the beauty and warmth of the season. By incorporating earthy tones, textures, seasonal decor, and lighting, you can transform your home into a fall-inspired sanctuary. So, grab your favorite fall-scented candle, and a cozy blanket, and get ready to enjoy the magic of autumn in the comfort of your own home. Share in the comments below your favorite fall decor element.
Happy Fall!
How To Transform your Home Into a Place That Brings you JOY
sitting room design
Home. It’s where we’ve officially spent most of our time in 2020. Our homes are playing new roles this year forcing us to reexamine the function of the spaces around us.
Your home is a representation of you. It should tell your story and be uniquely yours. Even if you’re not in your dream home - maybe you’re in a starter home or in between homes - the interiors of your home can and should service your essential needs and desires. Your home should inspire you, bring you joy, help you feel relaxed, keep you safe, and ultimately showcase your personality - and even your family’s personality.
How do you create this sense of ease and beauty in your home-you maybe asking? Let’s get into some of the practicals of how you can transform your home into a place that brings out your personality while servicing your needs and desires.
Interior Designer, Sabine Guillaume HAyes
Evaluate & Prioritize. Before you can rearrange, design or decorate anything you need to ask yourself what’s important. What are the main things you do at home that are important to you? Does cooking bring you joy? Focus on your kitchen. Do you love to entertain? Start with your dining and living room. Is family time essential to you? Start with a family room. Do you crave rest after working long hours? Start with your bedroom. In addition to focusing on the rooms that are important to you, I also recommend starting with a “self-care” space or a “you” space. Somewhere you can pause, retreat, and getaway for a moment. It can be a corner in your bedroom or a bonus room, dedicate a space where you can pause for a moment to read, pray, journal, meditate, exercise, etc.
Plan. Every project needs a plan. After you’ve evaluated your important rooms-develop a timeline of which ones you would like to complete first with a budget. You may not be able to complete your entire home at once but I highly recommend completing one room at a time. No matter how tempting, complete one room before starting another room. Why? It’s easy to get discouraged when you see portions of a room completed here and there. Think of design as a puzzle: all the pieces need to come together and fit perfectly to create a complete image. If you only have sixty percent of the puzzle complete, you can’t enjoy the full beauty or clarity of the image.
Execute. Once you’ve evaluated the goal of your project, planned a timeline and budget it’s time to design and decorate! This is where you may want to bring in an interior designer to help you put all your needs, desires, and styles together. However, if you are doing-it-yourself here are the steps I recommend taking to complete the design of your room.
Break down your plan.
Find or create your inspiration.
Layout your room - based on the room’s function write down the furnishings you would need.
Shop for your items. Invest in your large and most used pieces.
Tell your story by pulling all of the room’s components together - color palette, furniture placements, textures and patterns.
before & after of a Sitting Room design in a new construction home
If you are feeling stuck and cannot figure out what to do next, how to pull everything together or need reassurance and validation of your choices (sometimes you need just an additional set of eyes!) reach out to me. I’m here for you, even if it’s a quick question. All you need to do is ASK SABINE!
