Tips For Designing A Home On A Budget

Living Well

Tips For Designing A Home On A Budget

Whether you are moving into your first home or you have an existing space that needs attention, I’m sharing today some tips on designing a home on a budget.

As I have written about here and here, I recently installed my daughter’s first post-college apartment in Manhattan. There was a distinct thought process I applied on where to invest and where to save as we pulled together her first home.

Tips To Follow When Designing A Home On A Budget:

1. Buy the best upholstery you can afford

We started with a Fabricut headboard for her bedroom and sofa and chair in some of their wool fabrics for the sitting area as these are all great pieces that can grow with her over time.

A nice, weighty piece of upholstery makes such a difference – the quality is much better and I knew she would use it for years to come. This leads me to my next point……

Upholstered Headboard Designed For A Small Bedroom — Dana Wolter Interiors and John Bessler Photography

Fabricut Uphlolstery For Designed For Small Space Living — Dana Wolter Interiors + John Bessler Photography

Upholstery Details — Dana Wolter Interiors + John Bessler Photography

2. Determine your price points based upon the piece’s purpose and longevity

My daughter’s bedroom is a decent size for Manhattan standards, but it lacked a closet. I took 2′ of the room and created a makeshift one with Fabricut’s quick ship draperies.(the roman shades are part of their quick ship program as well).

Their window treatment program is new to me and I was extremely impressed with the options. They shipped within 10 days of placing the order, too!

We incorporated an IKEA closet system behind the draperies because it only needs to last a year or two.

If she ends up using it longer than that, it’s an added bonus. To my point, this wasn’t an area that needed much financial investment but did need a functional system that worked for the space. IKEA was the solution for designing this small space within our budget and it turned out perfectly.

Small Space Organization On a Budget — Dana Wolter Interiors, John Bessler Photography

There’s no doubt she will enjoy this Gabby marble lamp for years to come.

3. Find your color palette – Think Neutral For Small Spaces

Knowing this was my daughter’s first home after college, I wanted to make it warm, functional, and inviting. The function of these new pieces can serve her in other living spaces in the future.

Therefore, selecting a color palette that she enjoys that will also stand the test of time was important. We went with mostly neutral tones but added pops of gray and pattern in the custom Fabricut pillows to add a little flare.

Neutral Color Palette Is Best When Designing A Small Space — Dana Wolter Interiors – John Bessler Photography

Fabricut Pillows — Dana Wolter Interiors – John Bessler Photography

4. Buy the Best Art Your Budget Allows

Regarding art, my suggestion is simple; buy pieces you love and spend as much as you can afford. It’s something that lasts a lifetime and can move with you from home to home.

My daughter started collecting art her senior year of high school and as a result, she’s curated a nice collection of custom pieces for her age.

Framed Art For Small Space Design — The watercolors on vellum were created by one of her friends from college, Dana Wolter Interiors and John Bessler Photography

Whether you are just starting out or looking for budget- friendly design options for your current home, I hope you find this post helpful. Let me know what you think-

Have a great day,

Dana

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Before and After: Small Space Living Ideas

If you follow me on Instagram, Facebook, or read this post, you know I recently collaborated with Gabby and Fabricut to share some small space living ideas using their product lines for my daughter’s New York City apartment.

It’s she and her roommates’ first apartment after college and like most Manhattan spaces, it is tiny.

Trying to make a small space fit all of your needs can have its challenges. My goal was to create a warm, functional Family Room for them and Bedroom for her while investing in pieces that will act as staples in the years to come.

Their apartment has great light that I wanted to accentuate. I could not help but think about the cold, dreary winter months ahead in the city and decided to create a cozy feel through lighting, fabrics, rugs, and furnishings.

(Note: Like something that you see? Concluding this post, I’m sharing all of the links to the Gabby lighting and bedside tables and to Fabricut’s upholstery, fabrics, and trims used in these two rooms).

Small Space Living Ideas: Bedroom Design

What’s behind the draperies, you ask?

Small space bedroom storage — The bed frame is on risers (hidden behind the dust ruffle made from a Fabricut linen and tape) for extra storage. The Fabricut ottoman in one of their custom fabrics is perfect for sitting while putting on her makeup. Dana Wolter Interiors, John Bessler Photography

My daughter’s bedroom is a decent size for Manhattan standards, but it lacked a closet. I took 2′ of the room and created a makeshift one with Fabricut’s quick ship draperies. The Roman Shades are part of their quick ship program as well.

We incorporated a vanity and an IKEA closet system behind the draperies. It only needs to last a year or two, and if she ends up using the closet system for longer than that, it’s a bonus.

Here’s a drawing of the closet wall:

Small space living — Dana Wolter Interiors, John Bessler Photography

I love that she can close the draperies to hide the mess, though not sure she would want to because it’s quite pretty with the Gabby lamp.

Gabby table lamp, Dana Wolter Interiors — Gabby *Margaret* lamp, Dana Wolter Interiors, John Bessler Photography

I knew I wanted to use one on Fabricut’s upholstered headboards for her because an upholstered headboard instantly softens a room. With this versatile style in one of their exclusive neutral velvets, I personalized her bed with custom pillows made out of Fabricut fabrics.

The chic Gabby “May” nightstand adds a little more storage, blends beautifully with the bed, and it fits like a glove in the space.

Beautifully styled apartment bedroom — I love this Gabby bedside table paired with the Fabricut headboard and pillow fabrics. Dana Wolter Interiors, John Bessler Photography

Smart Bedroom Design — Small Space Living Ideas, Dana Wolter Interiors, John Bessler Photography. The lantern shown is the Gabby “Carly”.

Small Space Living Ideas: Intimately Fabulous Family Room

Their Family Room is tiny – approximately 6 x 9 (plus the niche) and with its odd shape, there isn’t room for wasted space.

Before:

After:

We started with a Fabricut loveseat and chair from their upholstery line as these are perfect pieces that can grow with my daughter. They give as much seating as the space allows and I envision them moving from home to home with her over the next several years.

Fabricut upholstery — Fabricut’s *Draper* loveseat and *Helga* lounge chair nestled in perfectly in the family room. Dana Wolter Interiors, John Bessler Photography

It’s amazing the transformation this apartment made and I love how it came together. They have a nice start to some classic pieces that can move with them in the upcoming years.

I have listed below the furnishings, fabrics, and lighting by Gabby and Fabricut. Let me know if you implement any of my small space living ideas into your space as I enjoying hearing how my tips inspire you. And, as always, if we can help you turn your home into one you dream, please reach out here. We would love to discuss your project.

Have a great day,

Dana

Want to recreate this look? Click below on the direct links:

Queen Headboard:

Fabricut Stanley Headboard in Fabricut Fabric

Queen Bedskirt:

Fabricut Linen with Fabricut Decorative Tape

Custom Bed Pillows:

Bedroom Ottoman:

Fabricut Clarence Poof in Fabricut Fabric

Lighting:

Custom Family Room Pillows:

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Design Tips For Hallways and Landings (i.e. The Forgotten Spaces)

We strive to create a home that is special to each client by thinking through all of the design details, including those in the forgotten spaces such as hallways and landings.

These type of pass-through rooms can sometimes take a backseat to the main living areas, but they are the perfect spot to add a personal touch.

Here are a few design tips to turn your hallways and landing into warm and inviting spaces.

1. Create a focal point

In this new home we designed, we transformed what could have been a cold, boring upstairs’ landing into a beautiful extension of the main living areas.

We also added a unique focal point to catch your eye before you walk down the stairs.

How to decorate a landing in a home — Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

2. Soften the space through rugs, fabrics, and furnishings

A great way to pull together a hallway is through layering the space. Here’s a great example from 2018 our Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles’ Southeastern Showhouse space.

How to decorate a hallway — Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

3. Add a personal touch though art or family photos

My clients will tell you that I love using a hallway to create a personal photo gallery. I asked this client for some black and white photos that were special to their family, and we took it from there….

How to create a photo gallery — Custom Photo Gallery, Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

So the next time you are walking through one of your hallways and it seems a little bare, incorporate these design tips. Be sure to let me know how it transforms.

As always, if we can help you turn your house into a home you love, give us a call at 205-938-4848 or email us here.

Have a great day,

Dana

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Living Well: 5 Accessories Every Home Should Have

It seems extreme weather makes people want to stay in and nest, and what better way to freshen up your home than with some of my go-to accessories that will add warmth to your space.

Here are five of my go-to accessories every home should have:

1. A soft, neutral blanket

We use a lot of throws in our interiors because they instantly create a space that calls your name to sit down and relax. Besides, who doesn’t like a blanket when curling up with a good book or watching a tv show?

Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

2. Coffee table books

Books are a great way to add a collected feel to any interior. I always enjoy looking at the books people display in their home because it usually says something about their interests.

Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

3. A bowl to catch keys

If I am creating a vignette near a point of entrance, a bowl to catch keys or miscellaneous items is a must. It makes a place for the ‘clutter’ of life look beautiful while serving a purpose.

Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

4. Living plants

Flowers, greenery, or branches always add life to any space. My youngest used to say that flowers around our house made the house seem a little more clean. Need I say more??

Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

5. Art

Find art that speaks to you. Art is a personal experience for everyone so finding pieces that touch and move you is important.

It’s also a great way to pull an interior together, such as how we layered this framed nude sketch against a Louis Philippe mirror.

Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

Look around your home as you may have many of these accessories already. If you’d like to discuss your home and your goals for it with us, we would love to hear from you. Feel free to contact us here.

Cheers to cozying up in your home while we anxiously await for the warmer days of spring. Have a great day,

Dana

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Living Well: 4 Ways To Create A Home You Love

Potential clients will often reach out to us for different reasons.

Sometimes they can’t quite put their finger on why they aren’t happy with their home, but it is intuitive- it feels like wasted space or it’s dated or just not quite right.

Some are even embarrassed to have visitors over because of how it looks.

You can’t put a price tag on some things, and a home that offers a place to retreat is one of them.

Here are four ways to create a home you love:

Have a well-thought out design plan created for your home. After the purchase, furnishing your home is the second largest investment you will probably make.

Furnishing a home isn’t cheap, and you want to make sure you are spending your money wisely the first time….

You see- designing a home is an investment, so hire a professional to give you a detailed plan on how – and where- to invest in the furnishings of your home.

Think long term with your investment and life.

2. Include pieces that speak to you and that you love. When we begin a turnkey project, there is a lot of conversation with our client about their dreams, what’s important to them, etc… Your home needs to be a reflection of you and what makes your heart happy.

3. Give a room a purpose, and work the furniture around it. Unfortunately, you can’t have a home that feels good and works for you unless it works for your needs.

Cant figure out one? Contact us here to assess your needs and to help you invest your money wisely.

4. How can you add to the quality of your life through your home? Do you want to expand your circle of friends and want to invite more people over to dinner on a regular basis? Great- let’s make sure your home will flow like it needs to do so.

Life is too short to not love the place you spend the majority of your life. Your home should be a place that feels good, rejuvenates you and gives you a place to restore and rest.

Here’s to making your house one you love-

Dana

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4 Ways To Make Neutral Upholstery Durable (Aka Livable)

Do you ever wonder how we use so many beautiful, neutral fabrics in our projects and question how they look after a busy family lives in the space?

Many times when we are in the furniture and fabric phase of a project, clients immediately want to steer clear of anything that remotely looks too ‘light’ in color because of children, dogs, and just life.

They have valid reasoning for being concerned; I’ve raised three daughters and know how that goes. But like everything else, technology with fabrics and their durability have come leaps and bounds from where they used to be.

Here are four ways to make neutral upholstery more durable in your home:

1. Treat the neutral fabric with a stain resistant

In this Living Room, we had all of the upholstery treated with a stain resistant formula before being upholstered. It’s important to look at each fabric’s durability when creating a room so it can work hard for your family if needed.

Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

2. Include commercial grade fabrics in strategic places

Another trick we use is to find contract-grade fabrics that do not look or feel commercial. We have found fabulous looking velvets and linens that go through rigorous testing to guarantee they are stain resistant, durable, and have a high rub count.

Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

3. Add a blanket or quilt as an extra layer of protection

Often times, we have quilted throws made to perfectly fit a piece of upholstery. This allows the throw take the brunt of the activity and it can easily be removed or dry cleaned.

This Schumacher velvet and Jerry Pair leather add to the durability in this room. Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

4. Incorporate a leather or faux leather into the room

This buttery faux leather that resembles some of the attributes of leather can look stunning and function perfectly in a kitchen or breakfast room.

The technology makes it easy to wipe down without stains or harsh chemicals, so no worries about fingerprints or stains on this custom banquette we designed, either.

Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

Next time you are faced with the fear of choosing new fabrics for your home, don’t immediately shy away from light upholstery. Remember, the key is to look at its makeup so it can stand up to everyday life.

Here’s to living well with neutral upholstery,

Dana

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Living Well: Tips For A Great First Impression In Your Foyer

The foyer is the first impression of your home when someone walks in, so it needs to make a good one.

After all, whether family or a visitor, you want guests to feel welcome.

We recently began working on the foyer of a current project. It is a beautiful home and while we have finished up several rooms in the house, we are now focusing in on this space. As I was assessing the best way to soften this room and make it look like the family has lived there for some time, I thought I would share some tricks with you.

Here are five tips to making a great first impression in your foyer:

1. Add a piece of furniture and or seating (preferably something with fabric) to soften the space.

Foyer, Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

2. Make the space personal- Add your favorite piece of artwork, a frame with a family photo, etc….

Artwork by my daughter (that I love) personalizes the entrance into my office, Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

3. Make the space useful- Depending on the size, create a place to sit to put your shoes on, or at the very least, add a tray to catch your keys.

Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

4. Include something fresh such as flowers or a plant.

5. Layer the space with accessories to create dimension and to make it look like it has been collected over time.

Below is a video I shot a few years back with Wendy Garner talking about how to transform this overlooked space. Click here to watch for a few more tips for your foyer.

photo (5) — Dana Wolters’ TV Segment on “Ways To Create An Inviting Foyer”

So, what does your foyer say about your home? Does it set the tone and catch your eye, or is it a “catch-all” area you want to hurry your guests through?

Have a great day, everyone, and here’s to your foyer making a good first impression.

Dana

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After Pictures- Southern Style At Its Best

It’s always fun to go back to a finished project and see how a client is LIVING in the home.

I am always amazed at how your surroundings can completely revamp how you feel and live.

After all, #LivingWell in your home is about making your home work for you and your family. Making it special to you.

We made a two day visit to professionally photograph this home, and I loved seeing the hustle and bustle of everyday life for them. This family of five stays on the go, and their home needs to work hard for them.

Southern style at its best- spaces that invite guests in to visit, spaces that are workhorses for their needs, and in the end are just really pretty rooms.

I think we succeeded in making it just that….

It is their forever home, but when they bought it a year ago, there wasn’t much to it that made it feel like it was their own.

While I can’t show you the full room pictures, I can give you a glimpse….

You might have seen this picture of the foyer on My Instagram that I posted last week, or this one today……

And here are a few more……..

Kitchen Banquette Detail-Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

Details on the loveseat in the bay window, Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

If you feel like your home isn’t helping you make the most of your life and your family’s, email us here. Let us help you #LiveWell in your home, too.

xo,

Dana

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Living Well- Tips For Making The Most Of Your Space In A Smaller Home

A few recent projects have been for families downsizing to smaller homes. And while moving to a home you are excited about can be a blessing, it can sometimes be difficult to lose square footage.

It’s amazing all of the stuff we accumulate over the years. I feel like I am constantly cleaning out my house and I try to watch what comes in.

How to make the most of small spaces can sometimes be overwhelming , so I thought I would give six helpful tips to #LivingWell in a smaller home.

1. Clean Out and Keep Only What You Love Or Will Use. Simple enough- Do you love it or use it? If not, get rid of it. No more storing things you “might” need in the future or because you feel guilty getting rid of them.

2. Are There Pieces That Can Be Repurposed? If there is a piece you LOVE but don’t have a place for it, can it be reworked for extra storage?

3. Look Above And Below. Look for ways to hide storage, such as using ottomans that open up, raising a bed a few inches to create more space underneath, or adding built-in seating with drawers underneath. I also love adding ottomans under an open console or coffee table- not only to work as a layering piece but as an extra seat that can be pulled out if needed.

An ottoman slides under a coffee table in a client’s Family Room- Dana Wolter Interiors

Drawers pull out for extra storage in this window seat, Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

4. Simplify- When Looking At Your Stuff, Give Away The Extras Of The Same Items. After all, you might need a few extra sets of sheets, but do you need five sets for the same bed? No- so give away to someone who can use them.

5. Think Long And Hard How Your Home Needs To Work For You and Delegate A Function For Every Room Or Unused Corner. There is something refreshing about simplifying your life and surroundings. But with smaller homes, you need to think long and hard ahead of time to make sure the new home functions like it needs to for you. If you see an extra corner, could you add a chair and floor lamp for an extra place to sit?

Or a custom banquette to create more seating around a breakfast table?

Photography by Jean Allsopp, Dana Wolter Interiors

If working on a new build or renovation, hire a designer before the plans are drawn. An extra set of eyes for how your family will live in the house is invaluable. Every square inch needs to work hard so you can have the pretty with a purpose.

6. Let Go Of The Guilt. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it is hard to get your money out of furniture and rugs (and even some antiques) when selling. Just know this is the case and let go of the pieces…. Do not hold onto stuff for any reason other than you love it.

#LivingWell isn’t necessarily about having the best of everything- It’s about surrounding yourself with a home that brings you joy. A place you love to make memories with family and friends.

Downsizing can be a blessing if you allow it, as it is a way to lighten your connection to material “stuff” and create spaces that are customized and truly special to you.

Hope you find these six tips helpful to #LivingWell in a smaller home. Let me know what you think-

Dana

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Living Well: Tips On Incorporating A Mirror Into Your Interiors

As I was going thru some photos of my work recently, I was reminded of something important…..

When hanging a mirror, not only is the placement important, but also be mindful of what it reflects.

See what I mean?

Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Elton Photography

I also love incorporating a mirror in an entrance way when possible. The picture of this foyer is from several years back, but I still love how it adds reflection and softness to the space.

Hope these tips help when you are deciding where to hang a mirror in your home. Have a great day, everyone-

Dana

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Cocoon

A client reached out to us about helping them with a few rooms in their newly purchased home. One of the rooms they commissioned with us was the Dining Room.

The house is a typical 80s style house on a stately lot, and I wanted to add a little edge and detail through the interiors. A Dining Room is often nondescript, making it important to layer so it feels soft- and special.

Here are a few of the “Before” pictures:

We kept the wall color and her buffet, but everything else was a clean slate.

The goal was to make it feel warm, casual, and dramatic. Maybe it was the mood I was in, but Cocoon was the word that kept coming to mind.

We decided to drape two of the walls in the room with a sheer that blended into her newly painted walls. I wanted this room to draw you in, just as a Dining Room should.

Dana Wolter Interiors. Photography by Graham Yelton

I went with an upholstered table to add a little more drama and softness in the space. I also love the touches of black and gold throughout.

Upholstered Table Detail, Dana Wolter Interiors. Photography by Graham Yelton

After adding a table as big as the room could hold for maximum seating, there was room for a piece of furniture between the windows, but we had to watch its depth.

I decided to go with an Etagere to give her a place to stack her china, crystal, and serving pieces. Who says these type of pieces have to stay hidden in a cabinet or drawer?

The Etagere added a little more of a casual feel to a typically formal space, and it will look better and better the more pieces are added to it.

This piece will only look better with time as items are added. Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

So here’s to making your home feel like a cocoon; warm, inviting, and a reflection of you. If we can help you turn your house into a home you love, email us here. We would love to hear from you.

Dana

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On The Road Again…..

In case you are wondering where I have been……

I fell off the blog post train the past few weeks, as I have been living on the road and out of a suitcase.

We have been pretty busy with current projects, and with being out of town, my blog writing, the dog grooming appointments, and the cleanliness of my own house have fallen by the wayside.

Here is a glimpse into what has been going on with us…….

As I wrote here a few weeks ago, I was asked to participate in the Atlanta Home’s and Lifestyle’s Southeastern Showhouse in Atlanta, GA.

We spent two days in Atlanta installing the Mudroom, Mudroom Powder, and the Butler’s Pantry. Though it poured as we moved in, we had a blast.

Abbey at odds with the umbrella, and I think the umbrella may have won….

My goal was to make these small, but important rooms, feel true to the home. The house is beautiful and extremely traditional. Our rooms needed to blend into the architecture, but not at the cost of being boring.

I wanted to create spaces that are functional- a place to catch your keys, use the desk behind the cabinet doors, etc.

Layered, collected, timeless.

Here are a few pictures of our spaces for you to see.

Gorgeous console and lamp are from Parc Monceau. The Louis Philippe mirror is from Huff Harrington and the sculptural hands are from Travis and Co

Drapery panel covering a nondescript closet door. It also adds softness to the room while balancing the opposite wall.

I love the Tantalus and oil painting below from Parc Monceau. If you haven’t been to their shop in Buckhead, you need to stop by.

The Plateau is an architectural fragment I found at an antique store, and I had my marble guy cut a piece of Alabama White for the top. It’s one of my favorite serving pieces in my own home.

Royal Standard china and Baccarat crystal

The Showhouse closes May 14th so be sure to catch it.

After we installed our rooms, I vacationed in Miami for a few days with two of my girls. It was Lucy’s Spring Break, so we took a few days to get away. Feeling the sun on your back, and your toes in the sand, does a person good.

We loved DIRT in Miami- a fresh and healthy take on food

I came back Tuesday from Miami and left Wednesday for the opening of the show. Abbey went with me and we had a blast.

It was back to work for a day while I was back in Birmingham, AL. We had a site visit to select hardwood floor color, and we also began working on a living room design for a new client.

I then headed back to Atlanta for Design ADAC and for the Southeastern Designer & Architect Awards.

The Design ADAC panels were awesome as expected. I especially loved the one with the Editors of Veranda moderated by Carolyn Englefield. I think I could have listened to Lisa Newsom’s stories from the past all day long.

As I wrote here, I was thrilled to learn we were a finalist for the ADAC & Veranda 2017 Southeast Designers & Architect Of The Year awards.

*The Editor At Large* interviewing me at the party

Phoebe Howard took home the Residential Designer Of The Year award, and my Birmingham, AL, friend, Jeff Dungan, took home the Architect Of The Year Award.

I have to give my team a huge shoutout. They held down the fort while I was in and out of town, and I truly could not do all of this without them. They are the BEST, and I am grateful for each of their gifts that they bring to our firm.

I loved being in Atlanta this past month, and always said that if I didn’t live in Birmingham, Atlanta is where I would hang my hat. Not sure my husband would comply, but I can work on him…..

And while I have worked on projects in Atlanta in the past, I would love to do more work there. If you have a project and you like our style, reach out to us.

I am back in Birmingham for a few weeks before I head out of town again. I plan on catching up on work and cleaning my house :). If I am lucky, my hands will end up in the dirt planting a few things this weekend.

Stay tuned as we keep you filled in on some more exciting news….

Have a great day-

Dana

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Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles-Southeastern Showhouse

Fridays are always fun days to share exciting news- and I am thrilled to announce we are part of the design team selected for the Atlanta Homes & Lifestyle’s Southeastern Showhouse in Atlanta, GA.

Designers from across the Southeast have been asked to participate in this showhouse, and we are honored to be included. The house is a James Means’ creation where his designs were based upon Classicism and craftsmanship. The renovation/addition is by Yong Pak of Pak Hyde & Associates.

This incredible home is located in Buckhead’s Kingswood neighborhood and will run from April 14th- May 20th. You will not believe the gorgeous piece of property the home sits on- the view is incredible.

We are working on the Mudroom, Mudroom Powder, and the Butler’s Pantry. The proceeds benefit the Atlanta History Center.

Other designers involved include:

Jackye Lanham, JACQUELYNNE P. LANHAM DESIGNS (Atlanta)
Stan Topol, STAN TOPOL & ASSOCIATES (Atlanta)
Tammy Connor, TAMMY CONNOR INTERIOR DESIGN (Charleston, SC, and Birmingham, AL)
Matthew Quinn, Design Galleria Kitchen and Bath Studio (Atlanta)
PHOEBE HOWARD (Jacksonville, FL)
William Peace, PEACE DESIGN (Atlanta)
Will Huff and Heather Dewberry, HUFF-DEWBERRY (Atlanta)
Tristan Harstan, TRISTAN HARSTAN INTERIOR DESIGN (Palm Beach, FL)
Lauren DeLoach, LAUREN DELOACH INTERIORS (Atlanta)
Chad James, CHAD JAMES GROUP (Nashville, TN)
Mark Simmons, MARK SIMMONS INTERIORS (Nashville)
Paige Schnell, TRACERY INTERIORS (Rosemary Beach, FL)
Sarah Bartholomew, SARAH BARTHOLEMEW DESIGNS (Nashville)
ANNA BRAUND (Atlanta)
Lisa Palmer, SUMMERHOUSE (Jackson, MS)
B.D. JEFFRIES (Atlanta)
Susan Jamieson, BRIDGET BEARI DESIGNS (Richmond, VA)
GORDON DUNNING (Atlanta)
MINHNUYET HARDY (Atlanta)
HUFF HARRINGTON HOME (Atlanta)
Cindy Ingram for ETHAN ALLEN (Atlanta)
Dan Belman and Randy Korando, Boxwoods Garden & Gifts (Atlanta)
Margaret Kirkland of MARGARET KIRKLAND INTERIORS (Atlanta)

Stay tuned as we share over the next few weeks what we have planned. It is going to be a lot of fun to watch this house transform.

Have a great day, everyone-

Dana

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Living Well

The Color I Am Loving Right Now…..

There is a color out there that I am loving right now, and it isn’t one I normally use.

#Blush has caught my attention and I have found myself using it in the fabrics and art in a few of my current projects, including my office. I did a #FacebookLive video here about it the other day, and apparently, I am not the only one who is loving this color…..

Becki Owens, Bloglovin' — Becki Owens, Bloglovin’

As I shared with you here, I pulled several fabrics for a recent living room install that included this color.

The room turned out soft, chic, and beautiful. I can’t share much just yet, but here is a sneak peek…..

And while I have paired blush with silver and gray, the room below with it against taupe caught my eye.

I am betting blush paired with taupe is going to be a big design trend before too long…..

What colors are you loving right now? Has blush crossed your radar yet? Let me know – I would love to hear…

Dana

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Living Well

Healthy Home, Happy Life

Are you ready to leave behind the stress you find in your surroundings and create a healthy, happy life that begins before you walk out your front door?

Your environment is one of the seven top causes of stress, and your surroundings attribute to your health just as much as what you eat, who you surround yourself with, how much you exercise, etc…

Think about it… If you try to eat healthy, exercise, get good sleep, does it make sense to spend the majority of your time in a a space that is cluttered, dark and disorganized?

A healthy lifestyle is one that encompasses all facets of your life, not just a few areas.

Don’t get me wrong…..There are days when your house is going to be a mess. I have had people in and out of my home quite a bit lately, and with the holidays, mine is now. Too many children pulling things out and not putting them up.

But the difference is that when you have a mess in a healthy home, it is because things are out of their specific place versus having things randomly lying around and piling up.

Take a step back from your home and make an honest assessment about how your home makes you feel. Does it bring your joy and peace?

If you find your house a place of uneasiness, apply these few tips to your home and see if you can figure out why :

Organize your home so everything has a place. Incorporate hidden storage where you can create a visual calm and store alike things together.

You would never know it, but the hidden door under my stairs allows for all kinds of storage for my family.

wolterhome_2016_gyc_367-2484x3726 — Dana Wolter Interiors

2. Find a Purpose for every room in your home as no room should serve as a “walk-through” or a room used once or twice a year. Then take a step back and assess the items in each room. Do they bring your joy or are they useful? If neither, it is time to give them away or throw them out.

This may also mean switching rooms around, or changing how the furniture is arranged in a room.

Take this room in this cottage below that we worked on a few years back. It was a walk-through room, a catch-all, and the it was the largest room in the house.

By changing the type of furniture placed in this room, we were able to create a place to sit and relax, play on your phone, read a good book, etc… The chaises draw you in to sit and stay for awhile.

You can see more Before and After of this house from this previous post here.

We did the same thing with this home. The biggest room in their house was the “walk-through’ room. It was rarely used while this family of seven used a small sitting room off the kitchen to watch tv.

What you can’t see in this picture is that we tucked a television on a side wall that can be pulled out when needed. Our goal was to create a family-friendly space for this family to enjoy while keeping it formal enough to serve as a living room if needed. Mission accomplished!

3. Find a Balance with how your home flows and functions. Your home should work well for everyday living and be able to transition to host a party when needed.

4. What makes you smile and bring your joy? Whether it is a sparse room, layered objects, bright colors, or a wall filled with books, use discernment in adding these touches to your space. Find ways to add what makes you smile to bring you Warmth and Joy in your house.

Chad James Interior Design, Elle Decor, Photography by Alyssa Rosenheck

If you need help into turning your house into one you love, reach out to us here. We would love to hear from you.

Here’s to a healthy, happy life-

Dana

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Living Well

A Look Back at 2016

With the new year just a couple of days away, I thought it would be fun to look back at 2016. This year has been a good one for us in so many ways, and here is a recap of a few things that took place:

We started the new year finishing up #ProjectExpansion for some favorite clients. They have a cute story as to why they needed more space. You can read about it here and here.

mouron-foyer-watermark — FOYER-AFTER Dana Wolter Interiors, Graham Yelton Photography

FR Built-in. Still needing glass doors installed — FR Built-in before the glass doors were installed

The kitchen in this home has been shared so many times on the web, yet very few people have seen the “before” pictures. It was quite the transformation.

This is the photo that has been shared numberous times on social media. It's even been referred to as the "poltergist" picture with stylist Monica Stewart making an appearance. Dana Wolter Interiors — This is the photo that has been shared numberous times on social media. It’s even been referred to as the “poltergist” picture with stylist Monica Stewart making an appearance. Dana Wolter Interiors

January began with a feature in Birmingham Home and Garden magazine. This home was approximately 12 years old and it needed an update. We took several of the rooms and dramatically changed them. Here are a few of the before and after pictures:

danaw_tuscaloosa_042 — AFTER- MASTER BEDROOM Dana Wolter Interiors

watermark link — AFTER- LIVING ROOM, Dana Wolter Interiors

You can read more on the transformation of a few of the rooms here, here, and here.

In February, I hosted a party for Southern Living‘s Design Conference that took place in Birmingham, AL. There’s nothing like a party to make you do a few things around your own house, and it was just the kick in the pants that I needed.

It was a lot of fun as designers across the country came together for a few days, and I was glad they were able to see all that Birmingham, Al, has to offer.

Southern Living also included me in their April issue with a feature on using lavender in your home.

In October, Flower Magazine used my home as a backdrop for a Fall feature.

I was also asked by Coastal Living‘s Ellen McGauley and Southern Living’s Zoe Gowen to take part in a panel for ADAC on how to use social media and technology to grow a design business. Designer Cortney Bishop from Charleston, SC, joined in on the fun with us.

While there, the Editor-At-Large followed up by asking my thoughts on how ADAC is a great resource for designers.

Editor At Large Interview with Arianne Nardo

The last quarter of 2016 did not disappoint, either. We announced we are moving our office into the heart of Mountain Brook Village in Birmingham, AL. We are finishing up a few details now and will be in by the first of the year.

I was THRILLED to have one of our favorite kitchens for amazing clients in the Holiday Issue of Traditional Home. This was such a fun project for clients who trusted my vision, and the detail and customization in this home truly paid off.

dana wolter interior photography by Graham Yelton — Dana Wolter Interiors, Photography by Graham Yelton

You can read my blog post here to learn more about this project or click here to see the actual feature in Traditional Home.

The feature of my house in the November/December issue of Southern Living was a ton of fun. We photographed my home for Christmas in the summer and with the Southern Living elves setting everything up, it was as easy as it could be.

They spoiled me and I was missing their help when December rolled around and it was time to decorate again. You can read the 10 page feature here.

fullsizerender — Stylist Buffy Hargett did an amazing job on the flowers and decoration

fullsizerender-3 — The Southern Living team

As I look back at 2016, I cannot forget the online mentions and other amazing projects we have been part of this year that I did not highlight. I am having several projects photographed in a few weeks we have designed this year, and I cannot wait to share.

Thanks to all of you for following along on this journey. I have met some amazing people because of my job and am grateful to those who have trusted us with the investment of their home.

But more importantly, watching how an organized, functional, healthy home changes how a family lives is truly the best part of my job.

Here’s to a happy, healthy, blessed 2017 for all-

Dana

If you are looking to transform your home or looking to start anew, reach out to us here. I would love to discuss your project and see how we can help you.

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Living Well

Southern Living Christmas Feature- Behind The Scenes

Christmas came early for us when Southern Living published a feature on my home in their December issue. While the issue is now out on newsstands, I thought it would be fun to take a look behind the scenes.

I had the best time this summer shooting with them, as their team is so much fun. We had these polite, young men and ladies who helped us decorate, and guess what? They did not complain once. 🙂 Christmas decorating made easy!! With Christmas a few weeks away, I sure could use their help now.

Their team came in for a week in August to set up and shoot, and with a 10′ Christmas tree delivered directly from North Carolina, we decorated, Southern Living style.

The talented photography team — The photography team with stylist Buffy Hargett pointing out something specific

Buffy and I decided to keep the colors simple- gold, white, with touches of purple. Lots of greenery and white flowers- We were going for texture and unique ideas versus busy and color.

Love Buffy’s idea of a Eucalyptus garland draped over my bed

Boxwood garland holding up an angel over my Family Room mantle

Look how gorgeous this mantle arrangement is in my Living Room that Buffy and her team created. It was stunning and I wish I could have kept it alive to enjoy a little longer.

fullsizerender-1 — Close up of the arrangement

The feature ended up being several pages and shows different spaces throughout my house. It is interesting, too, how some of the colors in the rooms read differently in the magazine versus in person.

Photograph of my upstairs’ landing in the Southern Living December issue

To see more photographs, pick up the December issue now. I hope you see something that inspires you this holiday season-

dana

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Living Well

Transformation Of A Living Room

We have been working on a beautiful house in Mountain Brook, AL, that we blogged about here and are installing the Living Room after the first of the year.

I thought I would give a little insight into the transformation that is going to take place with this space. It is going to be pretty and chic and filled with a mix of velvets, wools, leathers, linens, and silks. Charcoal gray, tan, cream and blush colors will be mixed in with iron, mixed metals, and different wood finishes.

fullsizerender-6 — Look how gorgeous this silk is going to be as drapery on the floor-to-ceiling windows

We are mixing furnishings from two homes, and while the room was a blank canvas and several new pieces have been ordered, we have tried to incorporate as many of their existing things as we possible could. It’s going to be a good blend of new pieces and antiques.

Because of the size of this room, I want the space to feel like it has been collected over time. Pieces that will blend but nothing that feels too matched or contrived. While it will have more of a dressy feel than some of other parts of the house, I am big on designing this space so this large family will USE it. The room is going to be too pretty and take up too much space in the house for people to walk past it. A large sofa in the main seating area and a second seating area with two custom loveseats will provide comfortable seating for many.

The room has recently been painted from the pictures above and the rug is now installed. It already feels better with a few coats of paint and a floor covering that fits the space. Stay tuned as we install the furnishings and accessories in 2017.

Dana

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Living Well

Simple, Elegant Ways To Decorate For Christmas

It’s hard to believe the holidays are here. With Christmas around the corner, I am looking for simple, ~~easy~~ elegant ways to decorate. Jesus didn’t mean for the season to be stressful, and I am determined I am going to stay calm and relaxed this year.

Your home should be a place you can live in comfortably and that works well for your family, even during the holidays! While shooting for the feature of my house in the December issue of Southern Living, I had the chance to stream this VIDEO live with them to discuss tips for decorating. Click on the first one listed to watch.

Here is a recap of the tips in the video:

Simplicity: Create spaces you can live in and that work for your family. This goes along with holiday decorating, too! Sometimes the simplest detail is the most elegant. It doesn’t need to be fussy or expensive.

Magnolia wreath sprayed with white paint and hung in my foyer

2. Texture: Mix textures to achieve a layered look. By adding simple greenery to shiny ornament balls on my mantle, I added some softness to my limestone fireplace. When decorating, think of pairing shiny with matte sheens, smooth finishes with textural, etc….

3. Repetition: Pick a couple of colors and repeat them throughout all of your decor. In this instance we chose white and gold and mixed textures through the wrapping paper, ribbons, and calling cards.

4. Surround yourself with things you love. I showcased this sweet nativity set from Amano in Mountain Brook Village. I love how it reminds me the reason for Christmas in such a subtle way.

I hope these tips make decorating for Christmas a little easier for you this year. Take care and enjoy the season-

dana

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Living Well

Update On My Office Space

As I wrote here, I am moving my office to the heart of Mountain Brook Village in Birmingham, AL, in a few weeks, and thought I would give you an update.

Lots of exciting changes have been happening. Hardwood floors have been put down and waxed in the front room, built-ins were added to a hallway and the entire space has been painted.

Fabrics and colors for the front room- Dana Wolter Interiors

I am tweaking the exterior a little, and I thought I would share a peek. My paint color scheme has changed from the picture, but you can see where I am going with this….

The inside consists of basically two rooms connected by a hallway. I see the front room serving as a meeting room, and I want it to feel like you are walking into a warm, inviting living room to visit a friend. Something pretty from the street but functional for my firm’s needs. Here is a “Before” picture of the space:

AFTER of the Hallway. Doors aren’t hung here, but once they are, this space becomes hidden storage.

There is a bar area in the back room. I opened it up and replaced the countertop and faucet. I love this Kallista one given to me as a gift, and it can be purchased from Ferguson in Birmingham, AL.

I am thrilled to be in the heart of Mountain Brook Village. I love being from the South, and I am especially proud to call it home. There are so many positive changes taking place in Mountain Brook and in the city of Birmingham, so stay tuned to some exciting things happening here.

My office project has been a slow process because it has taken a back seat to my client’s projects. It looks like the construction will be finished in the next week or so, and we will be moving shortly after. I will keep you posted on the finished space.

Have a great day-

dana

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Tips To Follow When Designing A Home On A Budget:

1. Buy the best upholstery you can afford

2. Determine your price points based upon the piece’s purpose and longevity

3. Find your color palette – Think Neutral For Small Spaces

4. Buy the Best Art Your Budget Allows

Small Space Living Ideas: Bedroom Design

Small Space Living Ideas: Intimately Fabulous Family Room

Before:

After:

Want to recreate this look? Click below on the direct links:

Queen Headboard:

Queen Bedskirt:

Custom Bed Pillows:

Bedroom Ottoman:

Lighting:

Fabricut’s Quick Ship Draperies + Roman Shades:

Loveseat:

Chair:

Custom Family Room Pillows:

Here are a few design tips to turn your hallways and landing into warm and inviting spaces.

1. Create a focal point

2. Soften the space through rugs, fabrics, and furnishings

3. Add a personal touch though art or family photos

Here are five of my go-to accessories every home should have:

1. A soft, neutral blanket

2. Coffee table books

3. A bowl to catch keys

4. Living plants

5. Art

Here are four ways to make neutral upholstery more durable in your home:

1. Treat the neutral fabric with a stain resistant

2. Include commercial grade fabrics in strategic places

3. Add a blanket or quilt as an extra layer of protection

4. Incorporate a leather or faux leather into the room

Dana