Meet Megan VanLeeuwen, the new assistant manager at The Black Goose Design.

Megan comes to us from the bridal industry, where she designed custom wedding gowns and owned her own bridal business.

“With my background in fashion, I’m skilled with fabrics and high-end textiles,” Megan said. “It’s been fun to see how those skills easily translate to interior design and the work we do at The Black Goose Design.”

While design skills absolutely translate from one creative world to the next, we couldn’t help ask what prompted Megan to make the switch. 

“Running a business out of both Utah and LA proved taxing, pricy, and difficult,” Megan explained. “As difficult as it was for my business partner and I, we finally decided it was time to close that chapter in our lives. It was so emotional to decide to close, but I still do custom dress orders here and there, which makes it feel a little less final. For full-time work, I moved on to positions that weren’t as design focused, however, and I found myself greatly missing the design world.”

As timing would have it, Megan’s longing happened to hit just as we had an opening for an assistant manager.

“I was so excited when I saw this spot open up,” Megan recalled. “It spoke to my love of design and reminded me that I can still be a part of the design world, even if it’s not in fashion.”

With Megan’s extensive understanding of design principles, her impeccable eye for style, and her fresh take, she’s already an outstanding fit at The Black Goose Design.

“We have what we call ‘floor day’ here,” Megan explained. “It’s when new pieces come in and we place them on the floor. Being new, I spent much of the time this week simply watching Ali and Denise work their magic. They and the rest of the designers here really are like magicians, the way they put things together in spectacular ways that just work. I’m excited to learn all I can from them. And they’re all so approachable… It’s nice having that kind of friendly wisdom surrounding me.”

As much as Megan appreciates the company she’s in, our team appreciates HER. We can already tell she’s the perfect fit, bringing her own special magic to all she does here at The Black Goose Design.

Q&A with Megan

Q. What room is your favorite room in the home to design?

A. The bedroom! It’s one of my favorite spots in my home because it’s so relaxing. It’s all about comfort and feeling light. Lightweight fabrics, comfy bedding, calming colors… It’s a fun and peaceful puzzle to put together!”

Q. What is your favorite thing to buy for the home?

A. There’s no way to pick a single thing, but I do love pillows. You can change them from season to season to completely update the look of a room without a huge expense.

Q. What is your favorite design style?

A. Traditional with a modern twist is how I’d define my style. I also adore the modern farmhouse look and California ranch style.

California ranch style is where mid-century modern meets rustic. This painting, available at The Black Goose Design, is a gorgeous example of that vibe, with its warm hues and the clean lines of its frame.

Q. How did you get started in design?

A. My dad is an artist, so I grew up drawing. As a young child, I spent much time drawing figures and making my own paper dolls. I guess you could say my calling was clear from an early age, and I’ve loved the journey that has brought me to this point. I can’t wait to see where things go from here!

Thanks, Megan! We can’t wait to watch you spread your talented wings at The Black Goose Design. You’re a tremendous asset to our team.

If you’d like to learn more about California ranch style, using textiles, or any other design-related topic, Megan is happy to meet with you. Stop by any time.

Let’s say “hey” with a Q&A. Meet Amy, our newest designer at The Black Goose Design. We’ve asked her a few Qs so you can get to know her better. Beyond background, her As will provide helpful pointers and give you design tips, tricks, and trends to try in your home.

Q. What is your go-to color scheme?

A. Blue! I love the many moods blue can create. It can be a beautiful grayed down navy, a rich-looking teal, or a soft, cool steel blue… there are so many striking options! Combine different shades to create an attractive monochromatic scheme, or use blue as a solid foundation shade that’s easy to mix with other colors. I appreciate blue’s flexibility and the calmness it adds to a space.

image credit: Benjamin Moore

THE BLUE TO CHOOSE RIGHT NOW

I just had my husband's home office painted in a lovely color from Benjamin Moore called Blue Note, which pairs beautifully with the warm woods and blacks that are on trend right now.

Q. What is your favorite room to design?

A. I don't know how to answer this one. It feels like being asked to name a favorite child. I love bedrooms, because they are intimate, and we can infuse the personality of the person a little more deeply within those walls.

Family rooms are fun because it’s more about creating warmth, comfort, and togetherness,

Living and dining and kitchens are a joy because they are more often seen by guests and are a great way the homeowner can express themselves in a a public space within their home.

Q. What interior trends are you eyeing right now?

A. There are three: warmth, black, and texture! 

TREND #1: WARMTH

I love that we’re moving back to warmer colors—browns, taupes, and individual colors like olive green add a welcoming feel. 

TREND #2: BLACK

Black is back and getting more attention in our spaces. It’s like the little black dress, always classy. Plus, it’s a great way to add depth to nearly any space. 

TREND #3: TEXTURE

Texture is always a favorite, because it adds life and interest to a space. Right now, there are many divine options to choose from, especially when it comes to upholstered furniture and pillows. An added benefit: Texture makes everything feel cozier, which is nice as we move into the cooler time of year.

Q. What’s one pro tip you feel anyone can benefit from?

A. Don’t forgo color but also be smart about adding it! Color is a crucial part of design and really makes a space when it’s done right. The trick is making sure the color(s) you’ve selected works with your unique surroundings. Often, we’re tempted to buy a paint color based off of an image we’ve seen online, but it isn’t always that easy. Shades don't necessarily translate well. There are simply too many factors involved (lighting [both natural and artificial], furnishings, flooring, the amount of space you have, etc.). It pays huge dividends to spend the extra time necessary to sample the color(s) you want to use in a space before committing to and buying paint. You’ll cut down on mistakes and ensure you’ve found the right color(s) for your unique needs. 

COMMERCIAL SPACE

For those who are looking to start a business or update a space, let’s talk office space for a moment. In addition to residential design, Amy has an extensive background in commercial design, including proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit programs.

While Amy is thrilled to come back to her love of residential design with The Black Goose Design, she is also more than happy to assist you with any business-related projects. And her program knowledge will absolutely come in handy when it comes to deciding how to arrange the puzzle that is your home. 

Q. How does approaching a commercial differ from a residential one?

A. How we approach the style and how it translates to those using the space is definitely different. When focusing on commercial, it’s most often how the company wants to be perceived by customers and employees and how branding can successfully be incorporated into that. For residential design, however, the focus is on how the people using the space want to feel and interact, while infusing their personality into the design.

Q. What is your favorite thing about designing a commercial space?

A. The best part about designing commercial spaces is realizing how much of a person's waking hours are spent at work. You’re affecting a lot of people in how they work and live much of their day.

Q. What tips do you have for anyone setting up a commercial space?

A. The biggest trend that is still ongoing is open workspaces, but even with enclosed spaces, noise is a huge consideration. It is best addressed early when designing a space. Many options can be incorporated to minimize sound issues. If we address noise after a space is finished, it's more difficult to address and adjust. 

A WARM WELCOME

Q. What about this new position with The Black Goose Design has you the most excited?

A. I have always loved shopping The Black Goose Design for myself. I know we carry high-quality furnishings and accessories that add value and last. Plus, I absolutely adore the people I get to work with! They’re a top-notch, talented team!

We’re so happy Amy has joined us. She brings a wealth of knowledge and a gentle warmth about her we know you’re going to appreciate. Stop by and get to know her better sometime soon. 

image credit: Benjamin Moore

 image credit: Dash & Albert

image credit: Benjamin Moore 

 image credit: Wesley Hall

 

Learn more about Benjamin Moore color forecasting here. 

The fire burning in this gorgeous fireplace isn't the only source of warmth in this beautiful home. The entire house has that favorite-blanket vibe. You can't help but feel wrapped up in it and immediately put at ease as soon as you set foot in the door. 

Welcome to Michelle & Mike's home, designed by Denise Johnson at The Black Goose Design!

“As a professional electrician, I see new builds all the time,” Mike said. “There is definitely a trend towards bright and white right now. I like the open, airy feeling such a look creates but didn’t want to sacrifice the inviting feel warmer tones add. From a building point of view, it's why we paired large windows and glass doors, which keep our space feeling bright, with darker cabinets that add a richness. From there, it was up to a designer to put the finishing touches in place. Michelle and I have worked with The Black Goose Design on past projects, and they were a natural choice here."

A modern, bright environment that’s also warm and rich isn't an impossible goal. It's a beautiful aesthetic and choice to make. Denise Johnson was excited to work on this project and find decorative touches that would continue to add the warmth.

 “Denise directed us down the right path right away,” Michelle said with a smile. “With her help, we were able to pick just what we wanted from options she provided." 

Michelle has learned from past design experiences that having the right fit with your designer is crucial. 

 “You HAVE to match your designer” Michelle said with certainty. “You have to be able to say ‘I don’t like that’ and feel free to have an open, honest conversation with them. We have that kind of trust with Denise and it has made such a difference."

"Admittedly, I wasn't too eager to enter into the designing phase of our home," Michelle continued. "Even knowing I adore Denise, it seemed like a giant chore. But Denise turned those hard feelings around quickly. I warmed up to the idea almost immediately, because I felt such a wonderful connection to Denise. She made things fun!”

“There’s a lot of trust involved,” Denise added. “That trust and an open dialogue are what give you the big picture and put you on the right track."

"With any space, I begin with a conversation," Denise said. "My goal is to get to the heart of what our client wants. I want to know the function of the house. Do those living in it have lots of kids? Do they like to entertain? Etc. With initial conversations such as these, I better understand the client’s style and needs.”

“With Mike and Michelle, for example, I know that a big part of their world is their dogs,” Denise added. “They’re done with mashed cushions and sofas that won’t hold up to their pups. This meant a sofa with a tight back.”

“The sofa material was also important,” Michelle added. “Because of our big windows, we knew we needed a high-performance fabric that would withstand sunlight and not fade with time.”

“With such specific sofa needs, I was worried our style options would be too limited,” Mike said. “But The Black Goose Design offers more options than I realized. Plus, we were able to customize. We ended up with a sofa we love. What they did for us throughout our home not only met, but far exceeded my expectations!” 

“Denise was so good about getting me into the process,” Michelle added. “She’s really quick to know what I like and don’t like.” 

One of Michelle’s likes: cooking. It’s a love of hers, actually. This meant the kitchen needed to have a welcoming feel. 

FUN TIDBIT: Mike actually installed lighting in their countertops! What a cool effect!

“We wanted a big kitchen, because it’s the heart of our home,” Michelle said. “I wasn’t sure how we’d make such a large space feel warm and cozy, but Denise had perfect ideas and suggestions.”

From the living room and kitchen, Michelle, Mike, and Denise went on to design the master bath, the entryway, and other areas of the home. Working with a single designer/design firm, makes it easier to create a cohesive look throughout.

“We’ve actually worked with Denise on different projects over the years,” Michelle said. “She truly gets us. When I find that in a designer, I hang onto it. It makes everything easier and the outcome better!”

We couldn’t agree more, Michelle. The client/designer relationship is everything. Knowing that you and Mike are happy with your outcome means we’ve done our jobs well, and that’s everything to us! 

“Denise just made this whole experience feel good,” Michelle said. “We love how everything turned out, and, best of all, our kids just gravitate to this house. Now, I can’t wait for Thanksgiving!”

Mike and Michelle are such a special couple and family. We’ve loved helping this chapter of their beautiful story take flight. Are you ready to embark on a new chapter of your own? If so, give us a call at 801.562.1933. We’d love to help you turn your ideas into your dream home. 

Are you ready to enhance and bring some design drama into your space? Today The Black Goose Design is spotlighting a simple way to dress up those walls by adding color, pattern and texture in your home. Wallpaper is delightfully on trend throughout the design industry and with good reason! 

Today's wallpaper is most definitely not your grandmother's wallpaper. This modern wall treatment brings beautiful prints, gorgeous textures and eye-catching color with high designer style into a space. Wallpaper also adds incredible depth and dimension to your home that plain paint just cannot. Many wallpapers today are extremely durable, stain-resistant, washable and eco-friendly. Incorporating wallpaper into your home is a simple way to add a unique and chic design style.

Going from painted walls to wallpaper can be a big step, and knowing where to start can be a challenge. That is where our expert designers come in! We are here to get you excited about creating a distinct space with wallpaper, a place that defines your design personality.

Wallpaper is a wonderful work of art for walls, the wallpapers that are featured today are from one of our adored wallpaper companies that we proudly carry, Thibaut. This company has endless stunning styles, colors and textured wallpapers to select from. Thibaut has the very best in fine wallpapering treatments and we love to utilize them for our clients. Styling a room with wallpaper will instantly transform the entire look of any space with ease. Wallpaper is powerful, visually stunning and sets the mood, tone and ambiance for your home.

If you are not up to committing to an entire room of wallpaper, try applying paper to single wall or a small powder bath. This can be a helpful way to gently introduce pattern on your walls.

Smaller prints like geometrics will make a large impact with a clean and modern feel. Visual interest is key to a well-designed room, and printed patterns are a fantastic way to add specific interest with out overpowering a room.

Striking pattern, combined with sharp coloring, is an impressive way to display design style. This gorgeous geometric wallpaper is flocked, which also adds a deep dimensional element of texture as well.

Many modern wallpaper designs are simple but still pack a huge punch of designer personality! Anyone can incorporate this charming wall treatment into many spaces within the home.

Luxurious printed wallpaper defines sophistication that can give a touch of glam! There are many styles that have beautiful sheens and metallic textures to highlight your walls.

Floral wallpaper has always been a classic print, and these modern floral prints have been refined for a look of simplicity. A floral pattern can be applied in many spaces within your home. We are seeing a huge rise in floral wallpaper in bedrooms, bathrooms and even laundry rooms! Be brave and bold with the application of wallpaper. It makes an impactful, stylish statement!

As interior designers, we all agree adding texture to a room is so important. A grasscloth woven wallpaper will deliver appealing texture and depth. A natural organic-like texture provides a dimensional quality that will instantly warm-up any space.

Wallpaper is all about creating shape and movement that embraces fresh design. 

Wallpaper is not only for walls, ceilings are an excellent way to showcase a beautiful print and it will add an unexpected element to a room. Also, try lining the backing of bookcases with a fun wallpaper print, even with a small amount of wallpapering, you will be surprised how big of an impact it will have in your space.

Create a space within your home that is truly unique with wallpaper! Now is the time to revisit wall coverings. Wallpaper offers so many delightful options, and there are sure to be styles just for you. Allow our expert interior designers to assist you in selecting the perfect wall covering for your home! Visit our showroom located in Midvale, Utah where our design team will show you the latest in designer wallpaper.

Welcome back to part two of our favorite top dark paint picks from our expert designers. We are excited to be sharing more gorgeous rich paint colors that we love and that you can utilize in your own space! As interior designers, we always say new paint will deliver the biggest bang for your buck. A fresh coat of paint will instantly change the entire look and feel of your room with minimal investment. 

Rich, dark colors are predominantly on trend in the design industry. Be bold and capture that design drama in your home with some of these intense and beautiful paint colors.

Danielle

• Sherwin Williams - Shamrock -  "In one of my design projects I used this paint color in a master bedroom with an Aspen tree mural. It truly felt like an escape, the color is calming, rich and welcoming."

Deep coloring does not always have to be black or navy. This intense green is saturated with gorgeous pigmentation and will deliver spectacular ambiance in a room. 

*photo from Apartment Therapy

Ali

• Benjamin Moore - Cheating Heart -  "Whenever I use this paint color, my clients cannot get enough of it! Typically, they absolutely love the look and richness of its deep coloring and will use it in a few areas in their home."

Think of creative and unique ways to incorporate rich color into your home. Paint does not always have to be applied to walls, interior doors, ceilings and cabinetry are all splendid ways to add big personality with designer flair.

*photo from Remodelaholic

The Black Goose Design Staff Favorite

• Sherwin Williams - Roycroft Pewter  We all agree as a design team that this stunning paint color has incredible depth to it. With intense pigmentation and just a hint of blue, it is extremely versatile! This paint color also mimics a very popular wood finish from Redford House Furniture, a high-quality and unique furniture company that we proudly carry. We adore incorporating stunning dark-painted wood furniture pieces into design plans for our clients.

Painted architectural elements within your home will create a huge visual interest and design statement. Darker colors on your walls produce a fabulous backdrop that will allow you to play up your upholstery and other accents in the space.  

*photo from Houzz

We also all absolutely admire Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams! When renovations recently took place at historic Gardner Village, CF Home received a fresh new look to the exterior of their storefront. This appealing color was used on the beams outlining this charming store. Iron Ore gives a sharp and handsome contrast against the bright white wood and textured stone exterior.

Another captivating dark paint color is Greenblack by Sherwin Williams. This deep and dramatic color was used by Randi, our store manager and buyer, in her own home! A bold stripe of Greenblack was painted in a cozy corner that is an eye-catching feature within this room. Painting a pattern on an accent wall like this classic stripe will add an interesting visual element to your space.

Go ahead and embrace the dark side with these designer approved paints! Painting a room a new color is the easiest way to totally transform your space. Be on top of the latest design trend and incorporate rich, moody color within your home. Our expert designers are always eager to assist you in all of your interior design needs. We would love to pick the perfect paint color for your home and create a space that you truly love!

Our expert designers are spilling their favorite dark and dramatic colored paint picks! We are seeing beautiful, bold paint colors popping up within the design industry, especially in wall color! Incorporating deep rich paint colors in your home will instantly and effortlessly add serious design drama to any space! Our talented designers are thrilled to share their favorite dark paints they use in their design plans with you today!

Randi

• Benjamin Moore - Gentlemen's Grey - "I first saw this paint color on my neighbor's door, a red brick tudor home. I loved how it incorporated grey, blue and green hues, so fresh and classic. I chose the same color for the new door at The Black Goose Design!"

Be bold with a dark paint on the exterior of your home, the front door is an excellent way to display rich color! A colorful door always adds charm and major curb appeal.

Denise

• Sherwin Williams - Urban Bronze " This rich color is so stunning, I gasped when I saw it on custom cabinetry at the St. George, Utah Parade of Homes. It has been a favorite paint of mine ever since!"

A lavishly colored wall with a crisp white trim will give you a handsome contrast and enhance your space highlighting mouldings.

*photo from Ballard Designs

Jenny

• Benjamin Moore's - Hale Navy "This paint color truly is the perfect navy blue. You can dress this gorgeous color up or down. It also looks so chic with brass hardware and accessories."

This striking navy color blends beautifully with many other accent colors. This favorite paint pick is so versatile and is flattering in any room! 

*photo from Houzz photo credit City Homes, LLC

 Kelly

• Benjamin Moore - Chrome Green "This paint color is a true green, there are no yellow or blue hues to it. This is a truly unifying color because it reads as an organic color. This paint flows with neutrals, warm or cool colors. It presents itself as fresh, clean and crisp."

A deep green paint color is so simple to intermix within your home. Green pairs easily with both neutral coloring and vivid hues.

*photo by House Beautiful

Our entire design team agrees on one very special (and favorite) paint color, Soot by Benjamin Moore. We used this gorgeous color in our Parade of Homes, Banbury Manor on some of the cabinetry. This rich coloring perfectly complemented the home with a classic, yet fresh style.

We adore incorporating noteworthy paint colors in many spaces and encourage you to be bold with your paint color. Whether you want to make a statement in a room or create an eye-catching exterior accent, a deep paint color will always deliver the designer look you crave. Including rich paint colors in your home has always been an excellent way to pack a huge punch of design drama that gives life to any area of your space!

It is always our pleasure to assist all of our wonderful clients with any and every design need. We love sharing  helpful interior design information and ideas with you, our loyal readers! Our blog is the perfect way to stay up on the latest in designer trends and obtain exclusive designer tips from The Black Goose Design! 

*Due to individual device monitor limitations, colors seen here may not accurately reflect  Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin More  paint colors. To confirm your color choices, visit with one of our interior design professionals.

When it comes to interior design, most of us desire to create the biggest visual impact we can achieve with minimal cost. Our focus today is interior lighting, and we will be showing you some simple ways to acquire a high-design look for less!

Lighting is one of the most important and powerful elements of interior design, and it is key for a well-designed home. The lighting used in your space will strongly affect the overall feel and ambiance of your space. These wonderful ideas will help you illuminate your home with layers of beautiful, inviting lighting.

If you are thinking of switching up some lighting within your home, the entryway is an ideal area to showcase a new lighting feature. The entry is one of the first places your guests will see in your home, so make a visual impact with a beautiful lighting fixture. Select a striking chandelier, one that will set the tone and style for your home. A dramatic lighting piece will also draw special attention to any architectual details you may have in your entryway.

Suspend a light and airy lighting fixture above a staircase! Keeping with a simplistic yet notable stylish feature will enhance the entire area with soft luminous light.

Selecting new lighting for your home should be exciting and fun! You do not have to spend a fortune to upgrade your space with a gorgeous accent light. A smart (and inexpensive) way to contribute additional light is to intermix varied table and floor lamps, they will make a huge difference within your space. Additional lamps scatter light throughout your room that will add height, fullness and create a cozy atmosphere. 

An often overlooked area for lighting fixtures are in hallways. This is a great place to add a bit of sparkling dazzle with distinct lighting features. A lit hallway brings beautiful brilliance to an otherwise dreary space. Be mindful of fixtures that will create a soft glow and that will suit the height of the hallway without overwhelming it.

Add in a few recessed lights to your room to create highlight and ambiance. Recessed lights are visually sleek and give fantastic light coverage when installed correctly. It is also a great idea to incorporate a dimmer switch, this gives you the flexibility to adjust the brightness of illumination in your room.

When lighting fixtures are used correctly, it can accentuate particular elements in your space creating an inviting atmosphere. Consider adding a mini chandelier over your tub, this will cast beautiful shadows in the evening and will give charm to your home.

Statement lighting features, such as an oversized chandelier, make a dramatic focal point in any space. Our gorgeous showroom located in Midvale, Utah is always brimming with new, unique lighting features! These unique and impressive lighting pieces always give such lovely lighting inspiration, and it is such a pleasure to share them with our wonderful clients and you.

A stylish way to add a distinct lighting element is to ditch the over-the-mirror vanity lighting fixture for an extraordinary pendant light. Adding a "non-traditional" lighting feature instantly creates a custom look to your bathroom.

Do not shy away from illuminating your space with many different lighting applications. Adding in layers of light will always emphasize and highlight areas of your home. Use under cabinet lighting to contribute warm, subtle lighting. This soft lighting gives off such a radiant feeling. With so many options of cabinet lighting, there is sure to be a choice that will fit any budget. 

Our talented designers are always eager to assist you in your lighting needs. Whether you are thinking of selecting a new lighting piece for your entryway, or creating a lighting plan for your home, we have the lighting expertise and product you are searching for! The Black Goose Design also offers expert interior design services to help you achieve your home design goals. Allow our skilled designers to execute a master design plan to give you a solid foundation to accomplish any design project. 

Today we are excited to share with you four fabulous looks to spruce up your sofa! The season of spring is upon us and there is no better time to refresh your space (or sofa) with gorgeous throw pillows! Changing the look of your entire room can easily be achieved by simply switching out your throw pillows. Incorporating a pop-of-pattern, vibrant color and rich texture are essential elements for a well-balanced room, and you can include all of these elements within your throw pillows! Revamp your sofa with a few new plush pillows to create a chic designer look with ease.

By using varied throw pillows a sofa can take on many different looks, especially when starting with a versatile base. Starting with a neutral sofa allows for flexibility when you want to change up pattern and coloring in your home. As designers, we adore switching out and refreshing pillows, especially seasonally! The slightest change within coloring can create an entirely different ambiance within a room. Our suggestion for spring and summer months is to use lighter, brighter colors which feel rejuvenating, and keep richer color tones displayed for those cozy winter months. We are thrilled to show you some gorgeous designer looks that will inspire you to play around with patterned pillows.

Fabulous Florals

There is nothing better than a fabulous fresh floral print showcased on a sofa! Floral prints are a classic way to add color and a punch of pattern to your room. 

If you find it challenging to pair other pillows with a floral print, allow us to share a design secret! Use the varied coloring within the floral print itself to define your color palette within your room. Pulling out specific coloring in a main print is a great way to simplify selecting colors for other throw pillows and color accents in your room.

Noteable Neutrals

Neutrals are always a gorgeous way to display a relaxed and organic feel atop your sofa. Keeping with lighter subtle tones is a great way to pull a room together without having color being too invasive.

When we hear the word neutral, often times think  "boring beige," and boring is not the case at all! Neutrals do not always have to be a solid beige color as nifty neutral patterns can create a beautiful vignette for your sofa. We love this light textured pillow that reminds us of a playful animal print. Luxurious leather throw pillows can also be an option when utilizing a neutral color palette. Leather is a timeless texture and always gives a presence of rich refinement.

Pretty Plaid

Handsome plaids have made a huge presence within the design industry. A modern plaid is an enduring print that when combined with other playful patterns becomes an instant classic!

Pair sophisticated palids with a bold, larger-scaled print for a design savvy look. We adore this whimsical fabric with its moody blues and crisp refreshing presence.

Tantalizing Textures

Incorporating texture within your space is key to attain a welcoming and cozy look. Textured thow pillows will introduce plenty of visual interest without overwhelming your room.  

Thick, chunky weaved pillows are so inviting and add tactile contrast! They give depth and dimension to your sofa, and we adore any added trimmings, tassels and fringe detailing on plush pillows. Oversized tassles and nubby textures are always a fun element to incorporate on your sofa! 

Keep in mind to use varied sizes of throw pillows when dressing your sofa. This will help to achieve correct balance and scale within your room. We suggest using larger pillows such as a 24" pillow at the ends of your sofa. From there, you can mix in 22", 20" and 18" pillows for eye-pleasing proportions.

Placing an unexpected lumbar pillow with designer detailing can add a punch of personality. Throw pillows can also be a form of art, so be bold in your pillow selections!

As designers, we gently remind our clients to remember that the inside of a pillow is just as important as what is on the outside! At The Black Goose Design, our throw pillows are made from the highest-quality fabrics and are always filled with a goose down insert. Using a down fill insert will give you that plush, plump yummy designer look that a regular polyester fill just cannot. A down fill insert will remain fluffed, full and look fabulous on your sofa!

The talented interior designers at The Black Goose Design are happy to assist you in finding your perfect pillow combination for your personal style. Our stunning showroom located in Midvale, Utah is filled with gorgeous throw pillows ready to complement your sofa! We have extraordinary throw pillows and rich textured pieces that will grace your home with incredible designer flare that you will be sure to love for years to come. 

It is with great delight we're sharing some designer secrets today on how to layer your bed like an expert! Last week on the blog we gave some insight on the importance of creating a tranquil and serene space in the master bedroom. With these helpful designer tips, you will be well on your way to completing your restful master retreat with the perfect bedding! 

1. Foundation

Start off with the correct foundation for your bedding, invest in an excellent mattress. We spend a fair amount of time in our beds so why not be kind and rejuvenate your body with a great night's rest on a high-quality mattress! Our expert designers agree that bedding can be beautiful, but overall it must be functional. Heather suggests to select the best fills and inserts for your pillows and duvet. This will make a tremendous difference on the overall appearance, we always suggest goose down fills! We promise you will not regret it, a down fill will add the perfect plumpness to your bedding look!

2. Selecting a "Base"

The first layer is key as this will determine a "base" color for your bedding. A good idea is to keep your main pieces in the bedding neutral. This allows for flexiblity to add color in other areas. Color or pattern can be applied within your throw pillows or an additional duvet at the foot of your bed. Selecting a neutral base will also prevent the overall presentation of the bedding from looking too busy. Heather also adds if your sheets have a pattern, place your top sheet upside down, so that when you fold back the sheet the pattern is showing!

3. Add in Plush Pillows

Now let’s talk pillow configurations, you want to create height and fullness throughout bed because it is essential for keeping visual appeal. This can be attained by using larger sham pillows as a starting point. Keep in mind the scale of the bed. If you happen to have a large bed, it is best to use a larger-scaled pillow or sham to set as your background. This will keep the balance throughout your bedding grouping.

We love to layer in oversized pillows, which we call Dutch Euros. They are bigger than a typical Euro and only two are needed on a king bed. Below is a fantastic example of a Dutch Euro from Amity Home, a company that we proudly carry. Just look at those beautiful ivory knit pillows, what a dream!

To give you a size reference, throw pillows can be approximately 23"x23" or 21"x21". Size and scale are always important in overall design, and we recommend sticking with these larger sizes and trying to avoid going any smaller than these suggestions. 

Blending all of those lovely throw pillows together can be a breeze! Bedding comes to life when varied patterns and color are mixed together, so do not shy away from practicing this expert method. When collaborating your throw pillows, remember to balance larger patterns with some smaller prints and solids. This an excellent designer guideline to follow. Vary sizes of your pillows as this keeps visual interest and will create a cohesive look to your bedding.

4. Layer Unique Details

There is one final touch to make your bedding look elegant and finished with designer flair. Be sure to include a unique and eye-catching detail atop the bed. Be bold and display a fun throw pillow or two. Mingling in a dramatic textured throw can also add a stunning element that defines a designer look. A few extra details are a welcome invitation to cuddle up in all of those glorious bedding layers. We love putting a bolster or lumbar pillow up front so that the pillows gradually decrease in size and because they are oh so pretty! 

If extra "fluff" is what you desire, incorporate a feather insert into your duvet, sometimes two! This simple trick will make a world of difference in achieving the results you want! A feather bed will contribute depth, dimension and drama. These three elements are important factors when creating perfectly put-together bedding.

Tailored, short bedskirts are a trend of the past. A fresh new alternative to explore is a waterfall drop bedspread. This stunning new trend in bedding covers from Pine Cone Hill and is a great solution as it enlongates the bed and visually adds fullness. 

We proudly work with Pine Cone Hill and Amity Home. These companies are at the top in the bedding industry. Beautiful bedding with all of the extra details can be special ordered to your personal design style. Selecting your perfect bedding is important and should be as unique as you are! Heather, as well as our entire design team, are eager to assist you in creating your ideal bedding collection with chic style.

These few simple tips will allow your bed to look incredibly inviting and make your room a dream come true! At The Black Goose Design, we have a gorgeous selection of beautiful bedding to suit your design style. We are happy to assist you in putting together the ultimate bedding ensemble to ensure sweet dreams! 

Today we are addressing one of the most personal spaces within the home, the master bedroom. This intimate space should be the one space you always look forward coming home to. We are so excited to be sharing some helpful designer tips to make your bedroom into a restful retreat. The bedroom is a frequently overlooked space, and the last to be completed but we are here to inspire you to change that. When it comes to master design planning, the bedroom should be one of your top priorities. Why? With so much of our valuable time being spent within this space, it is important to create a place where the soul feels completely comfortable and relaxed in every way possible. 

To create a calm and serene space, it is important to keep in mind the color palette of the overall space. Be sure to use soothing colors that will evoke a feeling of relaxation for you. Neutrals and softer colored hues are usually a great place to start when selecting your color choices. Softer, smooth colors blend effortlessly together and are key to encompassing a "zen" like feeling.

Every master bedroom needs a comfy spot where you are able to sit and enjoy the ambiance of a private space away from the rest of the busy home. A small chair or even a petite bench at the foot of the bed can be the perfect solution to create an inviting haven just for you.

Selecting the perfect bed can be a tough choice with so many options to select from. Not to worry, our talented designers are happy to assist you in finding a bed that is your dream come true! Keep in mind what style will work best for you, your space and lifestyle. Master bedroom planning is not only about serene beauty but functionality as well. One of our favorite bed choices is an upholstered headboard. The soft, cushioned back of the upholstery will give you comfortable support while leaning back or reading in bed! Your bed should envelop you in total "cloud 9" comfort!

Bedding is also a large part of making your master retreat complete. Layered detailed bedding will make a substantial difference in how your bed not only looks but feels! Luxurious and subduded bedding atop this amazing upholstered bed gives a sophisticated yet welcoming look. Textured throw pillows paired wtih a simple striped quilt are a match made in designer heaven! Adding texture within your bedroom is vital. The texture may be within wall treatments, accent pillows or an area rug, it is vital to create visual substance and interest within the room.

Use a combination of light sources in your bedroom to promote gorgeous illumination from every angle. The master bedroom lighting is all about creating a delicate mood where you can unwind with a soft glow about your space. A large chandelier can be a decorative focal point that produces overall ambient lighting. Bedside lamps or pendants are also a great way to include accent lighting around the room. Layering many types of light is essential for cozy atmosphere. 

Another helpful tip is to install a dimmer switch. This allows you to be in control of how much light is generated within the room. 

Detailed furniture pieces will contribute character and charm to your serene space. It is always a great idea to incorporate larger scaled pieces if your space can accomodate it. This gives a dramatic effect to your room and an added bonus of storage space! Unique nightstands or small bedside chests are also an exceptional way to add a touch of elegance and show personal style.

Let's face it, we all work extremely hard, you deserve a place of ultimate beauty to relax and unwind at the end of the day. Make your master bedroom a refreshing space that is blissful to you. Allow our talented interior designers to assist you in making your designer dream home or master suite a reality! 

Welcome back to our final designer spotlight highlighting interior design trends in 2019. Today we are ecstatic to be hearing from the talented Kelly Winn. Her top trend focus for this year is all about incorporating vivid color throughout the home especially within artwork. We are seeing a large rise in rich and vibrant color incorporated throughout the home. Kelly is enthusiastic about the varied mediums of artwork and vibrant coloring being introduced to neutral palettes. These absolutely gorgeous art pieces Kelly is sharing on our blog today are from a wonderful art company with enjoy working with, the Soicher Marin Gallery. This stunning artwork is on display at our beautiful showroom floor located in Midvale, Utah and also can be special ordered.

Artwork can showcase your true designer style and personality. A large amount of wall space within the home is dedicated to displaying visual images that you adore, so make the best use of that prime real estate. Graphic prints, pen and ink drawings always peek a visual interest with chic style. Black and white coloring with simple shapes add great interest not only in the subject matter but in the amazing quality of the calligraphy itself!

Grouping these simplistic art pieces together can make a large impact in a room. These elegant prints flow perfectly in this space and complement the beautiful bedding. Muted coloring will give sophisticated and sleek presence when combining multiple art pieces together.

Larger scaled art prints can really brighten up a room and give a fresh perspective to a space. Switching up your artwork is a wonderful way to add a splash of color and give an entirely new appearance to your room.

Another trend Kelly is seeing is the introduction of photography in a unique and unexpected subject matter. Photography is such a classic accent to use in a home, and we are excited to be seeing a fresh "untraditional" take on artwork for 2019. Interesting photographs are art pieces that make fantastic conversation pieces to grace your home. These captivating photos will intrigue your guests and will add great visual interest to your space.

Finally, Kelly adores that watercolors are back! This exquisite method has been missing from interiors for years but this medium is largely on trend and making a beautiful impression in many forms. One of the best features of watercolor is the variety of shades and color tones that can be displayed. Many magnificent colors can be present in a single painting, and these various colors will allow you to easily complement your furniture, area rugs and home accents that you may have in the room.

Artwork with both vibrant and ombre coloring that flows effortlessly together will be forever an eye catching focal point in any space. Play off of the many colors that are found in watercolor paintings within the accents you have in your home. Incorporating small doses of color throughout your space will create consistency with seamless design.

This stunning medium is not only for artwork displayed on a wall, but it is largely being used within accents of the home as well. Phenomenal textiles are also included in this artistic manner. These incredible chairs showcase a large watercolor print that enriches and gives zest to this fabulous space.

Watercolor paintings and prints are visually impressive and expressive. The many colors, that flow cohesively together within a watercolor piece, create fluidity and bring a lightness into the room. 

Lastly, another unique way color is being introduced in art is through reproductions of fabulous textiles and ornate wallpapers. The everlasting beauty of a classic cruel needlework is now being framed as art and we completely are smitten with this idea. Gorgeous creations of hand-stitched art should be cherished and admired. Framing and displaying extraordinary textiles will add depth and dimension to your walls.

Wall art in many forms is a key element that will pull together a space and make it feel complete. It is important to select art pieces that speak to you and will make your heart happy everytime you see them. Selecting your perfect artwork should be an enjoyable process and admiring your choice pieces will give you joy for many years to come! 

Balancing your home with many types of artwork is vital to acheive superior design. Using a variety of mediums with artwork in your home will spark visual interest and complete your overall interior design. Adorn your walls with captivating artwork that will bring you delight with each new day. Our skilled designers are eager to assist you in selecting magnificent artwork to grace your home for years to come. 

We are back today and are thrilled to hear from one of our expert designers, Sam Atkinson. Sam is dishing her top interior design trend of 2019 which is going bold within your interior! Bold color and pattern is back in a big way, and we are delighted to show you some amazing ways you can bring bold back into your home with a few inspirational ideas.

Make a design statement with bolder elements of color on walls and in the kitchen. Sam mentions homeowners are craving a little bit of "pop" in their kitchens to make a gorgeous presentation within their spaces. A wonderful way to incorporate vivid pattern and color is bolder backsplashes of tilework paired with deep colored cabinetry in the kitchen. There are so many intriguing patterns, and we are delighted to share some beautiful examples from a few industry professionals who we admire.

*photo from HomeKemiri 

A popular interior design trend we are seeing is more fabulous geometric patterns with richly colored subway and hex tiles. The industry is abundant with unique patterned tile, and there are so many gorgeous options to suit the personal design taste within your home. 

*photo from Home Kemiri

Over the last several years, we have seen a large rise in white and neutral coloring. Although still popular, bold color and distinct patterned tile is on the rise. Backsplashes can expand from the countertop all the way up to the ceiling, and the bolder the better!

*photo from Home Kemiri

This same principal of going bold with patterned tile could also be applied to a fireplace surround. Not only will this create a stunning focal point, it is beautiful bold artwork built right into your space.

*photo from Veneer Design 

*photo from Cement Tile Shop

*photo from Cement Tile Shop

Particular tiles can even be adjusted and installed to a pattern that suits you best simply by flipping the direction it runs. Playful pattern is always a visual delight and instantly brings a backdrop of art into your space.

*photo from Chateau Kitchens

Another helpful designer tip Sam suggests is go for bolder color with deeply-hued cabinetry. Color palettes are transitioning from bright white to sharp blacks! Whether you choose the lower cabinets or both upper and lower to have a bold and appealing look, this is a great way to stay on trend with a bit of modern flare.

*photo from Flora Soames

A great paint suggestion would be Black Berry by Benjamin Moore. This color is deeply saturated and will deliver that urban and edgy classy feel to your space.

The key to achieving a sharp and crisp bolder presence within a room is to create contrast! Keep your walls light and neutral as this allows for those bolder colors to be showcased with designer finesse.

*photo from Apartment Therapy photo credit Emily Johnston

Black is the ultimate bold, but if you are feeling it may be too much for your space, try a deeper forest green or an intense navy blue. Proufound color will give you the same dramatic effect without sacrificing style.

*photo from Studio Surface

A fresh new idea this year is to ditch the traditional bold accent wall. Instead, Sam has a great tip to paint every wall in the room with a bolder "on trend" color such  as Benjamin Moore's Newburg Green! This gorgeous color will give you all the design drama you crave and will complement your space perfectly. Try rich coloring in a hallway or powder bath. Experimenting with smaller spaces first will lead to an easier transition when applying color to other areas of your home.

*photo from Kristina Crestin Design

Trim and crown moulding can also be included with beautiful bold colors. Expanding the paint color to your mouldings will make an impressive showing that is sure to have your guests intrigued!

This year allow your creativity to flow within your home and do it with accents of bright, bold and beautiful color. Incorporate large scaled pattern and showcase a refreshing new designer look by selecting colors that spark delight!

As we journey into 2019 with so many stunning interior design trends, we would love to partner with you to create a bright, bold and beautiful space you dream of living in! Our talented designers are always on top of the latest designer trends and are eager to share them with you. Thank you Sam for the helpful designer tips to create a bolder more vibrant space! The Black Goose Design is delighted to bring on the bold this coming year within interior spaces!

The Black Goose Design is delighted to be spotlighting some of our skilled designers and their favorite up and coming interior design trends for 2019. We are pleased to be hearing from the very talented Michelle DeHart today. One of her favorite interior design trends for this year is statement ceilings! The ceiling is definitely one of the most overlooked walls that make up a room. Why should your walls display all the design drama? One of the best features in a room is right above your head. A ceiling can make a truly striking statement. This beautiful recent trend packs a powerful punch of detail in a home. We are always thrilled to share inspirational work from varied industry professionals, it is a passion we all share! There are so many creative and bold ways to show off the "fifth wall" in your home and Michelle is here to show us just a few fun inspirational ideas! 

Natural wood tones and texture are always warm, inviting and will remain a classic accent. Wood ceilings can contribute a rustic yet refined charm to any room. They also give a richness and sophisticated style.

*photo from Barnes Vanez Architects

Create a "wow" factor by adding geometric patterns in your space. Stenciling unique and bold patterns will add a fresh and modern vibe that will showcase a beautiful artistic element on your ceiling.

*photo from Home Polish design by Crystal Sinclair

* photo from Crate and Cottage

Wallpaper has been a large design trend for walls but what about for the ceiling? Keep walls neutral or solid in coloring when adding a playful pattern above your space. Wallpaper is considered artwork and you want it to stand out.

*photo from Kelly Deck Design

Reducing noise especially in spacious rooms with harder surfaces can be challenging. Reducing sound can be a simple solution by using soundboard. A great place for this application would be in a larger theatre room where acoustics are critical for a superb home theatre experience. This great treatment allows for a distinct and visually stunning statement ceiling. There are many options that are unique such as suspended soundboard clouds and fabric covered soundboard paneling.

*photo from Rockfon Acoustic Products

* photo from Edgar Development Dialog Interior Design

Texture in a room is essential and is a key element when it comes to interior design. Nothing says terrific texture like simple jute rope. Its organic aptitude allows for natural beauty to flow throughout a room. Weaving rope in varied patterns will also give a beautiful and surprising pattern.

*photo from Shairoom 

A simple striped pattern is always a tried and true classic to use within a space. Try mixing up the direction of the stripes to create a unique and design savvy motif.

 *photo from Joe Carrick Design 

Barrel ceilings are always inspirational and an architectural wonder! Decorative wood panels can give a timeless and effortless look to a curved ceiling that is sure to please. Metal sheeting or a painted faux finish with deep inky hues can also add a sleek and modern ambiance.

*Photo from Michael G. Imber Design

*photo from Architectual Digest

If your space calls for it, embrace the bold and unusual when installing a statement ceiling. Approaching a statement ceiling project should be met with an artful mindset. Remember the sky (or the ceiling) is the limit!

*photo from Retail Design Blog design by Trije Arhitekti

Gorgeous moulding in any form can spruce up a space instantly. With elaborate crown and celing mouldings, you will add ornate definition and visual weight to a room. Decorative ceiling moulding is wonderfully elegant and displays a posh interior design style with a historical flair.

*photo from Inside Closet

One of Michelle's favorite looks is this ingenious glass ceiling! Adding a statement ceiling can be a creative and clever way to pull an entire room together. A fresh, light and bright approach is to adorn a ceiling with glass! This gorgeous apartment showcases a clear glass ceiling with brass trim to give contrast and ornamentation. This gives a crisp look with an industrial type edge. 

*photo from The Bolig Magasinet photo credit Christina Kayser O.

Stay tuned to our blog for more chic interior design trends from our talented design team at The Black Goose Design located in Midvale, Utah. It is our goal and passion to bring our loyal readers inspirational design and the latest in designer trends. The design industry is consistently changing with new innovative ideas, stunning textiles and creating exeptional products to grace our homes. We are always thrilled to share our favorite trends with you!

We all know the moment your heart skips a beat when you see a perfectly designed space with all the stunning finishwork and details. In that dreamy moment we think, "Wow, how can I recreate this designer look?" The Black Goose Design is sharing some expert designer tips on how to create a custom look in your home with detailed millwork!

Millwork

First off, what exactly is millwork? Millwork is all of those dramatic designer details that gives a spectacular custom look and complements the overall architectural design of a home. Millwork can include crown moulding, finished trimwork, interior doors, shiplap, board and batten and wainscoting. Basically any type of woodwork that is made from raw lumber and that is cut or trimmed in a saw mill defines the term, millwork.

Trimwork

Ceiling details are always a unique and unexpected way to showcase beautiful millwork. Incorporating wood planking or a stunning coffered design detail can impact a room and create a beautiful design element.

We adore the contrast of the crisp white mouldings with the inlay of this warm natural wood planking. Ceiling detailing can add a subtle accent to your space and will create a distinct and unanticipated custom look to your room. 

Wood Beams

Exposed wood beams are visually stunning and can be a tremendous feature within a room. Wood beams add so much character and charm to a home. There are many ways to style wood beams that will cohesively and effortlessly blend with your design style. A vertical or horizontal pattern can elongate and suit your space perfectly. Another option is to match the pitch of your ceilings with the beams. This will give a glorious outline with architectural detail. Natural wood color brings a warm, rustic texture. However, if sleek transitional design is what you desire, painting the wood beams will still give you a beautiful custom feature that is bright and airy.

Shiplap

The crisp and uniform look of shiplap, nickleboard and wood paneling can be seen everywhere throughout the design industry and for good reason! This sleek wall treatment can intermix with any design style giving an eye-catching custom look to any wall. Installing shiplap horizontally will give an expansive feel to the room. This beautiful board also gives a lustrous texture that plain or painted dry wall just cannot. 

This millwork treatment is an ideal way to create a custom look in your home. Adding millwork to your home may seem overwhelming or a large project, but it is relatively simple and can make a huge difference in the overall look of a space. A helpful suggestion is to start in an entryway, bedroom or hallway. Keep in mind key areas and focal points within your home. These particular areas may be the perfect place to apply this distinct treatment without overwhelming a space.

Shiplap is so versatile when it comes to design styling. A deep and moody paint color can instantly bring a modern and transitional look. Mix up paint colors with millwork on an accent wall to create depth and add a distinct design feature. Another helpful tip is to ensure you are selecting the correct width of the planks you are using for your space. When it comes to sizing, generally speaking a five to six inch board is used. Do not shy away from using a variety of mixed-width boards both in flooring and on your walls. Remember they do not need to be the same size. 

Wood Paneling 

Wood paneling in many applications gives a room a sophisticated and special detailing that is always impressive. A variety of panel styles can be used to complete the overall fashion and design of your home. Wood paneling, board and batten and wainscoting are all exceptional and custom treatments you can easily incorporate.

A flat recessed panel will give you a clean, smooth transitional feel while raised panels with decorative moulding tend to be a bit more formal and traditional in style. Wainscoting gives your home that classic, "high-end" appeal and will allow you to admire those custom details for years to come.

Wood paneling can visually break up larger wall expanses while still adding a decorative element. We adore this intricate pattern and design on the ceiling. This is a great way to tie a room together nicely.

Crown Moulding

Decorative mouldings and crown mouldings also give an impactful presence to any room. This delightful trim is simple, yet adds so much elegance and appeal to this master suite. 

Essentially, incorporating any type of beautiful millwork into your space will instantly bring in a key tonal texture within the walls (or ceilings) of your home. As designers, we always suggested selecting specific millwork you really love! Millwork will be a part of your home forever so selecting a style that makes you feel the happiest will, in the end, be the very best choice for you and aesthetically for your home. We offer the very best professional interior design services in Utah to assist you in your design needs. Our talented designers are always eager to create a personalized design plan you will adore! 

*Disclaimer some photos from MadebyMood, Houzz, Elizabethstreet post, Lowes and Emily Henderson Design

As the cheerful holiday decorations are back into storage, we start to feel a little blue and our homes begin to look a bit sparse. Our talented designers are here to help you to keep those wintery blues from starting to settle in. The Black Goose Design is excited today to share some helpful designer tips to keep your home looking refreshed and renewed for the upcoming year! We are delighted to spill some useful designer advice on how to breathe life back into your space and keep your home looking beautiful.

1. Incorporate Organic Elements

We all adore the gorgeous boughs of the Christmas tree, garlands and holiday greenery but as they are tucked away our homes are feeling a little scant. An excellent way to invigorate your space is to add some organic elements and greenery back into your room. Allow pops of greenery and organic texture to flow thoughout your home. A fiddle leaf fig tree is a perfect solution to add an adundance of height and fullness into your room. Fill in with smaller to medium sized plants and greenery sprays within your accessory groupings. Greenery accents are so versatile and will instantly bring vitality to any room.

2. Refresh Throw Pillows and Home Decor 

Brighten up your surroundings with fresh new throw pillows! An easy way to refresh your decor is simply by switching up your pillows with some energetic color and textiles. This small change will completely change the entire look and feel of your space and spruce up that sofa! Try introducing a new bold color scheme, pattern or playful texture within your decor to add visual interest and dimension.

Another helpful tip is to take this opportunity to eliminate clutter and rearrange your home accessories. With the holiday decorations clear, it is the perfect opportunity to "regroup" your home decor and switch some things around. Layer in some pretty pottery or large statement pieces into your room to create an eye-catching vignette. We always suggest grouping accessories together atop a large tray. This is a great way to keep things looking simplified and organized with design-savvy style.

 3. Layer your Home with Warm Lighting

Accent lighting is always so inviting and brings a feeling a comfort, especially when the holiday lights were all aglow. Bring back that warm ambiance within your home by layering with key lighting pieces. Lighting is a powerful and vital element of interior design and it can elevate, highlight and set the tone for your entire space. Treat your home to a new lighting feature such as a stunning chandelier or gorgeous accent lamps. When lighting is used correctly, it can enhance and accent your space.

5. Create a Focal Point with Key Pieces

Starting with a fresh space will give you the option to create a stunning focal point within your room. A mantel tends to be a natural focal point so why not layer it with some fabulous accessories? Showcase a large sparkling mirror or two! A mirror reflects beautiful light and gives the appearance of a brighter, lighter space! Incorporating dramatic designer accessories with varied sizes will assist in creating a harmonious balance. 

Treat yourself and your space this new year to a fabulous furniture piece! A small splurge on a stunning piece such as a large sideboard or even some smaller accent ottomans is a great way to make a design statement. Unique furntiure pieces will visually give you change you crave and can impact your room in an exciting new way. 

Perk up those walls and add some new artwork! Artwork is a wonderful way to easily expand coloring and interest in a room without overwhelming it. Layering in art pieces will allow for visual balance and flow throughout the room.

Now is the perfect time to embrace the feeling of an open and refreshed space during 2019! Allow our talented designers to assist you in renewing your home for the new year! We are always eager to assist you to acheive your interior design goals. We are ecstatic to share wonderful design inspiration and ideas to refresh your home. It is always a pleasure to share with our readers exclusive designer tips! Cheers to the new year!

As designers, we always want to inspire and give the best tips when it comes to interior design. Today we are sharing one of the most powerful pieces that can impact your overall space, an area rug! Placing this one simple piece within your space will instantly bring all the elements of your room together.

Area rugs make a huge design statement and are vital to a well-designed room. Reviving your space with a rug assists in "grounding" all the furniture and prevents the feeling as if your furniture was "floating." When it comes to ensuring a space will come together perfectly, is critical that you have a solid grounding feature within the room such as an area rug.

Rugs are a vibrant visual focal point and will aid in defining your space. A fun way to think of an area rug is a stunning piece of artwork for your floor! It can add playful pattern, a burst of color and neccessary texture, enriching your room with designer style.

Well-designed rooms always have a definite conversation or seating area. An area rug will naturally allow your furniture pieces to come together creating a cohesive feel.  

Area rugs always will also add a layer of warmth, texture and give a welcoming feeling to a space. These are all choice elements that we strive for when putting together a room. Pretty pattern and detaling within an area rug will give vitality to your room! 

An rug is the foundation to your living area so remember to select the correct scale suitable for your room. Choosing the right size of rug is critical to a well-balanced space. A helpful tip is to make sure the key furniture pieces in the room are all touching the area rug.

As mentioned before, rugs can also speak as art and not all art belongs on a wall! This specific and unique artwork for your floor adds warmth, depth and definition to home design.

The Black Goose Design carries the highest quality and selection of area rugs. With an extensive selection of pattern, style and durability our interior designers would love to find the perfect rug to suit your space. Revive and refresh your home with the ideal area rug. You can be assured it will make all the difference within your home!

At The Black Goose Design we are passionate about designing interior spaces. There are so many benefits that come from partnering with an interior designer when taking on a home project, remodel or even selecting a paint color. Taking on a design project may seem a bit overwhelming, there are so many critical choices and elements that go into designing surrounding spaces. We all want to feel assured that the best possible decisions were made when designing any space within your own home. 

You may have given some thought about hiring an interior designer, and we are here today to give you some helpful reasons why you should hire an experienced designer. There is tremendous value in partnering with an interior designer when starting a home design project. With a skilled designer by your side, you can feel at ease knowing you will save time and avoid costly mistakes. Most importantly, you will be investing in your overall lifestyle!

Our designers understand your time is valuable. By collaborating with an expert designer, we can assist you in your project and ease the decision-making process. Having an experienced designer by your side throughout the entire design process will give you reassurance that every detail of your project will come together perfectly. Starting with a master design plan that a professional interior design will create for you puts you on a path for design planning success!

Interior designers have trained eyes and are professionals in every aspect of design. We love creating and sharing the overall vision of home design. Having a clear master design plan will ensure that every detail of a room will cohesively flow with ease.

Our elite design knowledge ensures that what we create with our clients will remain true and timeless to their design preference and lifestyle. Design done well gives you the pleasure of being surrounded in a beautifully-designed home that is tailored to how you actually live in it.

Hiring a designer will help you experience the feeling of being confident. Your investment in your home is important and knowing it will be taken care of and managed properly can give you great peace of mind.  You also will be certain the end result will be completed just as you had envisioned.

As designers, we thoroughly enjoy the entire design process and are eager to assist you from consultation to finishing the last designer detail! A planned layout for your home is essential for all the design pieces to come together with proficiency and style. Our goal is to create an entire vision for your space from start to finish with a plan and a purpose. Take the first step toward achieving your design dreams by collaborating with an expert interior designer at The Black Goose Design.

We would love to help you with all of your interior design needs. A simple consultation eases the stress of the design process, and we are delighted to talk through your design goals and expectations. We offer the very best in interior design services in the Salt Lake City area. Contact one of our talented designers here, and start your design journey today.  

Mixing patterns within your space can sometimes be a challenging task! So, how do you mix patterns like a pro? Well, today we are thrilled to hear from expert designer Ali on how to correctly mix all those gorgeous patterns in your home. 

We sometimes can feel overwhelmed with so many fabric choices when selecting upholstery or when you are trying to create a perfectly balanced look with a punch of personality in your space. Ali has some helpful tips to guide you in the right direction when it comes to mixing patterns and color within your home. 

Mixing varied patterns in your home can bring out the indiviuality of your design style in a big way. Incorporating assorted colors and diverse patterns with varied scales can take your home from ordinary to looking like a professional designer has worked marvelous magic!

Here are a few simple design tips from expert interior designer, Ali, that will help you begin to mix and match patterns within your home with ease. 

1. COLOR

Start with two colors which will work delightfully in your space. This will keep the task simplified and will add the desired color and contrast to your space without "over-doing" it. Refrain from adding a third color (yet). Live with the two colors for a few weeks and see if you really like the mix.

(our inspiration image with bright orange and navy blue hues)

2. ADDING PATTERNS

After you have lived with your two color selection and really like the combination, you can then blend in a third color and/or pattern! Flirty florals, stunning stripes, perfect plaids and gorgeous geometric prints are all classic patterns to select from. Do not be shy about your third selection, take a walk on the wild side and even mix in an animal print!

3. BLENDING

Here is a big design secret when it comes to "tying" your patterns together. Be sure to select at least one fabric that has two of your selected colors in it. This is key to correctly blending and mixing patterns and color with simplicity. This one step will help incorporate and allow your room to cohesively flow together.

4. SCALE

Be sure to integrate varied size and scale of your patterns. For example, if you desire stripes and floral patterns, do not use ALL stripes and florals that are the same size. Mix up the scale by doing a large buffalo check, a smaller stripe ticking and a medium-sized floral. This will give the space a united feel and will enhance the color pattern play.

5. RULES

As designers, we do break the rules (gasp!).  If you fall in love with a floral or conflicting patterns, it is alright! By being unique and occasionally breaking the rules, you can still create stunning design. These are just some general guidelines to help you achieve an expert look of mixing color and patterns together. If you happen to gravitate toward several striped patterns you adore, by all means do what you love the most in your surroundings and enjoy it! 

Seeing beautiful interiors are always a great way to get inspired! Ali mentions an exquisite and expressive blog, I Suwanee. They feature a designer, Lila Hobogood, whose home is full of ideas for mixing and matching patterns. Lila's home is an expression of her personality and passions in life.  Take a look inside of her home here for ideas on mixing and matching patterns like a pro! Designer Lila Hobogood's does an outstanding job of allowing her design style and her passions to come flying through with her smart use of color and patterns. 

If you desire to take your room up a notch, consider adding bold colors and mixing in those pretty patterns! Combine complementary patterns to bring vitality into your room, refresh your current pillows, rugs and artwork with lively color. 

Whatever designer style suits you, allow the patterns and color to fit your personality! The designers at The Black Goose Design are eager to hear your ideas and help you achieve your vision. Let the pop-of-pattern shape your space into a comfortable haven that will define home to you.

 *Disclaimer photos from Pink Chandelier, I Suwanee Design

This month we are surrounded with our nation's bold and bright colors. Ravishing reds, beautiful blues and fresh, crisp whites! With these eye-catching colors proudly displayed, it is only fitting that The Black Goose Design is sharing our top classic white paint picks!

Our talented designers Jessika and Sam are giving us their top white paint colors that are sure to renew any space.

Applying a fresh coat of paint to your walls can impact your space in a big way! These classic white paints will instantly brighten and promote a feeling of fresh airiness into your home.

Sam

Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore - "Swiss Coffee is a warmer whtie that will give walls color without being too harsh or cold. This paint is an excellent choice to apply throughout the home, but my personal favorite is in a great room or a master bedroom."

Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore - "Chantilly Lace is a bright yet cool white. This white looks beautiful on cabinetry, especially in the kitchen! I love this paint paired with gold hardware and natural wood accents."

Spanish White by Benjamin Moore - "Spanish White is a warmer white with slight undertones of grey, and this paint pairs beautifully with Chantilly Lace. The best application for Spanish White is to use as a main wall color with Chantilly Lace as the trim for a gorgeous contrast."

Crisp, white walls are versatile and blend well with any color pallete allowing flexibility for accent colors in furniture, accent pieces, artwork or draperies. 

 Jessika

Alabaster White by Sherwin-Williams - "I love Alabaster White because of its extreme versatility! This color comes off beautifully in just about any room or level of light. Be sure to stop by our Parade of Homes, Banbury Manor, in August to see in person just how gorgeous this color looks in a number of different spaces."

Cloud White by Benjamin Moore - " I have always been drawn to Cloud White by Benjamin Moore because of the subtle sophistication that it brings to a space. Cloud White is a cooler white, a color that is sure to bring a fresh and renewed look to any space."

Pink Damask by Benjamin Moore - "For those of you craving your wall color to be neutral with just a hint of pop, I would absolutely recommend Pink Damask by Benjamin Moore. This color has the slightest undertones of a pale pink and brings great warmth to a room. This color is dynamite in a bedroom, master or powder bathroom or even a nursery Try painting Pink Damaks with Chantilly Lace trim and it will be love a first sight!"

Incoporating paint color, (yes, white is a color) into your home has always been an excellent way to pack a huge punch of design drama that gives life to any area of your space!

It is always our pleasure to assist all of our wonderful clients with any and every design need. We love sharing  helpful interior design information and ideas with you, our loyal readers! Our blog is the perfect way to stay up on the latest in designer trends and obtain exclusive designer tips from The Black Goose Design!  

*Due to individual device monitor limitations, colors seen here may not accurately reflect  Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin More  paint colors. To confirm your color choices, visit with one of our interior design professionals.

*Disclaimber photos from Bungalow Home, Decorpad, Popsugar, Babywatchhome, Houzz, Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams

Today we have the pleasure of hearing from one of our expert designers Denise. She is dishing some of her top tips on how to create a fresh coastal feel within your home. When it comes to designing clients homes, Denise is always ecstatic when they request a crisp coastal style. Her amazing talent and adoration for all things coastal showcases beautifully in her many design projects.

To Denise, coastal is defining a specific "feeling" of a space rather than a theme of seashells and palm trees. It is all about loving your surroundings and creating a relaxed tranquil feeling in your space.

A light and serene color palette sets the mood for a peaceful retreat. Refreshing, soothing colors like moody blue-green hues and natural textures are always a must for achieving a coastal look!

Incorporating a contrast of crisp white details will always give a hint of coastal atmosphere within your space.

Denise has been in the design industry for over 20 plus years, and with many diverse styling trends she feels as the coastal look has always felt like "home" to her. She adores nautical finds like unique sea glass bottles, white worn accessories, and oversized shells. Her favorite coastal detail is her collection of sanddollars that are beautifully displayed in a large glass jar with white sand. Denise recently purchased a home with gorgeous original wood flooring which flowed perfectly with her white casual slipcovered sofas. Adding just an inkling of coastal touches can go a long way without feeling overwhelming or a defining "beach house" look. 

Combine natural light wood tones and touches of texture throughout the space. Using soothing colors will help transform any home into a cozy place to relax.

Pairing deep sea blues with warm wood tones creates visual interest with a bold statement of color. 

Do not limit your coastal vibe exclusively to the interior of your home, the exterior of your home can define your style as well. A refreshed painted pale blue door is a welcomed sight to greet friends and family. Adding charming details such as a simple lanterns or a natural jute rug will also complement your coastal look.

Add in accent pieces such as oversized seaglass jar and eclectic vintage artwork in unexpected places. These small details will help to bring in the tranquil and calming sense of the ocean.

The Black Goose Design is always delighted to create a cozy coastal space tailored to your personal style. We all want to have a sense of serenity and relaxation within our homes. There is no better way to love your surroundings and feel like you are on vacation everyday than with coastal touches throughout your home. Thank you Denise for your helpful tips on creating a composed coastal space! 

Today we are pleased to hear from one of our expert interior designers, Michelle. She is dishing out her top design tips when it comes to new home construction. Taking on a design project like building a home can feel overwhelming, but don't worry! Michelle is here to help give some great main points for tackling a new home build. Every great design ending starts with solid design planning.

1. Creating a Master Plan and Budget

• First, choose the size of home that will fit your needs. Factor in what specific spaces will be utilized the most! Consider choosing a larger gathering area if entertaining is important to you or a bigger mud/laundry room for busy, active kids. Essentially, choose a plan that fits your lifestyle. 

• You can modify any basic plan with the assistance of a civil engineer. A basic outline can be a helpful guide when selecting a final floor plan. Make a list of what your absolutes are and what you are willing to negotiate with the builder. Clear communication is crucial for a successful build.

• Consider splurging on a separate electrical plan. Outlet and lighting placement are not fully thought through. Avoid the costly mistake and inconvenience of any electrical changes after completion by having a great plan in place from the beginning.
• Budget for window coverings, furniture and landscaping. These items are very important but often get pushed aside simply because the funds were not part of the original planning process. 

2. Select the Right Builder

• Remember to get referrals for a good builder as this is so important. Set interviews with several builders before making your selection. Some key questions may be - are they a hands-on builder or do they have superintendents? Do they exclusively use loyal subcontractors or tend to get the best price for subs?

• Feel like you have clear and honest communication with the builder you choose. Ensure your building experience will be a positive one. This starts with making a good choice of who you build with.
• Know that your builder takes absolute pride in their product, and most importantly in your home. 

3. Expect the Unexpected

• Expect that there will be unforseen circumstances when building it is all part of the process. 
• Many people and products are involved in the home construction so you can guarantee a few things may not go exactly as planned but will work out in the end.
• Set clear communication with your builder. You may want to establish ahead of time how you would like to work through a complication if it arises.

With a good plan, budget, and builder you trust, your new home build can be a great success and turn out better than you ever imagined! Our expert designers at The Black Goose Design can create a master design plan to work with you and your builder in creating the home you have always dreamed of! Thank you Michelle for these delightful designer tips and helpful guidelines on the topic of new home construction.

Today we are thrilled to hear from one of our talented designers, Kelly. She is giving some helpful design advice on how she works with clients to achieve the perfect finishing touch to a room with window treatments.  

As designers, it is our goal to complete the room with every designer detail including window treatments. Dressing your windows is like the icing on the cake, or the perfect accessory to your fashionable outfit, it just feels complete!

The same rule applies to draperies. After investing in a room full of gorgeous furniture, accessories and artwork, you want the space to feel finished to perfection. That can be accomplished with the final touch of window treatments.

We all strive for the room that we see in a designer magazine, or perhaps on social media. Kelly mentions, "At times, there may be  a client who purchases a room full of beautiful furniture, but are still feeling like the space is not completed. To eliminate this feeling, window treatments are the solution to finishing off the room." Every room and window are unique, and it is helpful to collaborate with a designer when it comes to window treatments. This ensures the right treatment will be installed, also that the design style, coloring and pattern will complement the room.

There are many styles of window treatments, from Roman shades to dramatic drapery panels. Partnering with an expert designer is key. Kelly listens and guides her clients to the best application of window treatments that will give them that beautiful, functional and finished look. Window treatments are a great way to introduce pattern, color or soft texture into a space. 

Blinds or shutters are great for privacy and light control, but it is the window detailing that really showcase the room and make it shine! Kelly adds, "the truth is, even if you do have blinds or shutters, you need draperies to soften the hard surfaces of the room. They aid in sound absorption, especially if you have higher ceilings or hardwood flooring. Draperies also add key texture and vital color to the space." 

"By establishing the need for a window treatment, I can then work with a client to achieve the overall look and feel they desire in the space." By engaging with the client and asking what their personal needs are for window treatments, we can focus on what will work for them. The client may want the focal point to be on the window treatment itself. In this case, we would select a high contrasting or patterned fabric to really highlight the windows.

If a softer look is desired by the client, a subdued window treatment can be applied. Window treatments can also provide more of a supporting look that blends in and harmonizes with other furnishings. 

It is always a great pleasure to work with every single client and assist them in achieving the designer look they dream of! Dress up those windows and complete your space with the perfect designer draperies from The Black Goose Design!

The Christmas tree is down, those holiday decorations are tucked away, and your mantel is bare. Suddenly your home is feeling a bit sparse. Not to worry, our interior designers have the perfect remedy for curing those wintery blues! 

Warm up your space with eye-catching artwork that will be sure to complement any wall in your home.

Incorporating artwork into your home will instantly add color, texture and visual interest. 

 Large dramatic pieces always demand attention and make a stunning design statement.

Select artwork pieces that you are drawn to and that you love. Artwork is an essential accessory for your home as it is something that you will look at day after day so choose art that you absolutely adore! 

Big walls need big interest! Group or stack art pieces together to make a noticeable focal point. 

Be sure to include a common theme throughout your grouping. Matting, framing, coloring and subject matter should all flow creating a harmonious look.

The Black Goose Design has the most spectacular and stunning artwork ready to grace your home. Give your walls the color and creativity they crave. Our unique wall pieces are specially priced through the end of January 2018. Stop by our spectacular showroom floor to search out your favorite art piece today!

A stunning sectional is the coziest and most complementary piece when it comes to custom upholstery! Sectional seating has many seating arrangement options giving you the flexibility to create a personalized upholstered piece tailored exclusively for your space.    

Sectionals are a great solution when extra seating is needed no matter how large or petite your space may be. You can comfortably seat many guests in your space with a vareity of pieces configured to an ideal seating arrangement. Our expert designers are eager to put together the perfect sectional pieces for your room and create a gorgeous gathering area! (and just in time for the holidays)

Full size sofa lengths, loveseats and "apartment sized" sofa pieces (meaning in-between a full size sofa and a loveseat) can be configured to suit your design needs. All of our custom sectionals are made with high-quality upholstery fabrics, sturdy construction and plush, ultra-comfortable cushioning for those lounge worthy evenings indoors. 

Keep in mind the overall styling of the actual sectional frame. There are many beautiful styles to select from but choose a frame that will fit your personal design taste. Clean-lined and modern pieces are versitile for a transitional type settings and a classic tapered english-arm style is wonderful for a traditional and timeless look.

When you think of a sectional you may think your space cannot accomodate such a large piece of furniture, but this is not always the case! Even the tightest of spaces can benefit from sectional seating and visually can give the illusion of making the space appear larger. Placing a sectional in your room will set the scene for a clean and simplistic look with definitive design-savvy style!

An appropriate sized sectional verses trying to fit a larger sofa with some chairs can sometimes be the best solution when additional seating is needed. Extra seating is always an added bonus without the bulk!

Style your sectional with fabulous fabrics and a luxurious variety of throw pillows to bring out your personal design style. Incorporating texture with a pop of pattern will really showcase your sectional and display your homes personal style.

It is always encouraged to consider the cushioning depth of the sectional, you will want the cushion to feel what is most comfortable and best to you. Typically a sectional is designed for more of a "lounge type" setting so  seat cushions tend to be a little deeper resulting in added comfort!

A chaise lounge can also be added to your sectional piece with ease. A chaise piece allows for you to really indulge and stretch out, or for sneaking in an afternoon nap! A helpful tip is to place the chaise portion on the side of the room that has the least amount of traffic if possible.

Snuggle-up with a custom stunning sectional and enjoy the winter months ahead. Our expert designers have mastered the art of creating the perfect sectional configuation with functionality and dramatic designer flare!  These gorgeous high-quality sectionals are specially priced at The Black Goose Design, just in time for all of those happy holiday gatherings! 

Are you ready to perk up the personality of your home with one easy designer trick?! That's right, with a simple paint change to your front door, you can completely change the entire look and enhance the curb appeal of your home instantly.

Today our designers are inspiring you to make a fabulous front door impression with our top designer paint picks! The front door is easily one of the greatest focal points on the exterior of any home, so why not let it represent your home's personal style?

Color can make a huge impact on a front door of a home. A simple splash of vibrant color will instantly add character to one of the most important places of the home, the entry.

Welcome friends and family with a design-savvy door that defines the style of what awaits inside of your home.

Sophisticated rich colors like deep navy, black and jeweled-toned paint colors can complement any exterior showcasing a classic look.

Bold and bright colors look best with neutral exteriors and creates a cheerful accent.

Pairing crisp whites with striking black is always a showstopper, and this combination creates beautiful balance and brings brightness to your home.

Adding unique hardware is also a great way to give your home a designer presence. Whether your hardware selection is traditional and elegant or simple and modern, a hint of handsome hardware is always a great idea.

Our top designer paint picks to flaunt your front door are as follows:

    Hale Navy - Benjamin Moore      

 Pale Smoke - Benjamin Moore

Barefoot in the Grass - Benjamin Moore

           Revere Pewter- Benjamin Moore   

         Ravishing Red- Benjamin Moore

Paint is such a powerful tool, it has the ability to change the look and feel of the entire exterior of a home. For example, this classic door is painted a midnight black, but what if you were feeling a little more of a moody blue, a graceful grey or a ravishing red?

Painting your front door can significantly alter the entire appearance of your home and entryway in a snap! Take a dramtic design leap and break out of boring beige! Flaunt your front door with a complementary paint color. It is the ideal place to display your design style. Meet with one of our skilled designers today and we can select the perfect paint color that will suit your individual design style giving your home the most beautiful front door on the block!

*disclaimer some photos from houzz,thisoldhouse,countryasides,magnoliamarket,homebunchdesign,copycatchic,elementsofstyle

The Black Goose Design welcomes you back to part two of helpful lighting designer tips from our expert interior designer, Heather. We are thrilled to share these key points when it comes to creating the perfect layers of warm lighting for your home. Lighting is a powerful and vital element of interior design, and it can enhance, highlight and set the tone for your entire space. 

Bulbs

• Give particular thought about the type of bulb you may be using in the areas of your home. Choosing the correct bulb for a particular space can make a big difference in both appearance and function. 
• Warm incandescent lighting is always flattering (think soft restaurant lighting). This lighting is best applied for softer accents and not for bathrooms. Use a bulb that will mimic or give off light closest to natural daylight for a bathroom or vanity area. This type of bulb will especially help when it comes to putting make up on. The best bulb for achieving this daylight effect is a halogen bulb.
• Color temperature is measured in Kelvins, and the lower the number the warmer the color. Natural daylight is measured at 6500K, but a romantic date night it may be 2700K. When installing bulbs in your bathroom, opt for the higher number giving you beautiful, natural-looking light.

Overhead Lighting

• Recessed can lighting can really help increase the lighting in your home while accomplishing a sleek, streamlined look. By matching the size of the can itself, you can determine how far apart they should be installed. A 4" can should be placed 4' apart, 5" placed 5' apart and so on. 6" can can look a bit dated so we prefer a 4" or 5" can size.
• A common mistake when installing cans is to space the cans evenly between the walls and with each other. This creates uneven distributing of light. A can closest to a wall should be about half of the distance between the other lights but keeping a safe distance of 32" from the wall.
• We recommend painting the trim of the recessed can the same color as your ceiling to give an even and seamless look.

Artwork Lighting

• Lighting your favorite piece of artwork not only brings the art to life but also adds another lovely layer of light. With so many fixture options to choose from, wall lighting can really highlight and add an unexpected design element in your space.
• Use a low-voltage MR16 bulb. This will really make your colors pop because these bulbs have a high color temperature.
• Be sure to plan ahead when lighting your artwork by using the light in the correct application, fixture, type of bulb and using a non-reflective glass if applicable.

Be sure to balance lighting effectively by spreading light throughout your room. Correct balance and flow will be accomplished when incorporating the correct aspects of lighting. 

Our expert designers would love to help in any of your lighting design needs. From creating a master design lighting plan, adding new ceiling fixtures, or even introducing soft warm accent lighting with our gorgeous lamps. The Black Goose Design is always delighted to assist our wonderful clients. We have beautiful lighting pieces in-stock ready to adorn your home at our showroom located in the Salt Lake Valley.

 *disclaimer some photos from HGliving, JanturnerinteriorDesign and Lonny Design

Today one of our talented designers, Heather, is spilling some expert tips on how to create a master plan for lighting your home! Lighting is one of the most important and powerful elements of interior design, and it is key for a well-designed home. The lighting used in your space will strongly affect the overall feel and ambiance of your space. We are excited to present these wonderful tips to help you illuminate your home with layers of beautiful, inviting lighting.

Pendant Lights

• A great way to add style and additional task lighting in a kitchen or dining area is with pendant lights! We suggest hanging your perfect pendants 36" above the countertop allowing for ample lighting for your task space. 
• Incorporate a light above your sink area whether it is a can light, small pendant or a sconce. The added light will not only highlight this area but will provide additional task lighting.
• Under cabinet lighting will brighten up your kitchen. Mount your lighting as close to the front of the cabinet as possible. This will help prevent glare that may show on your work surface.
• Use lighting inside of cabinetry with glass door fronts. Installing lights inside of the cabinets will allow for an amazing accent with an extra soft glow. If you are feeling extra fancy, add an LED light strip inside of your drawers.

When lighting is used correctly, it can enhance and accent particular aspects in your space creating an inviting atmosphere. Consider adding a mini chandelier over your tub, this will cast beautiful shadows in the evening and will give charm to your home.

Chandelier Fixtures

• Use the length and width of the room as a guideline to determine an adequate size of a chandelier for your dining space. Be sure to select a size that will fit the scale of the room. Avoid selecting a piece that may be too small or too large for the dining table and overall area.
• For a pleasing proportion, place your lighting piece between half and three quarters of the table's length to ensure the best lighting when dining, or consider placing two pieces over your table.
• The dining table should be the focal point of your dining room;  therefore, it should be illuminated well. If other lighting is used in the room, put them on a dimmer. This will make the walkways visually look like a secondary accent space. 

Bathroom Lighting

• Install sidelights in a bathroom. This placement will be the most flattering to your face so consider using sconces. Lighting shining from above creates shadows. By using sconces, this will help you to look your best!
• A general rule is to place the sconces 36-40" apart and take note not to place them too high to avoid the glare of the light in your eye. Hang the bottom of the shade approximatley at eye level, 60-65" is a good standard.
• For a designer look, consider using a backlit mirror in a powder bath for a little ambiance. Another nice touch would be adding in a toe-kick light to illuminate the entire space.

Be inspired by bold beautiful layers of light, do not shy away from illuminating your space with soft ambiant lighting. Adding in layers of light will always enhance and highlight areas of your home. Warm lighting gives off such a refreshed  and brightening feeling.

Our talented designers are always eager to assist you in creating a lighting plan that is tailored to your exact design needs. The Black Goose Design also offers expert interior design services to help you achieve your design goals. Allow our skilled designers to execute a master design plan to give you a solid foundation to accomplish any design project. 

 *disclaimer some photos from HGliving, JanturnerinteriorDesign and Lonny Design

Choosing quality carpet is an extremely important factor for your home especially when it comes to functionality, durability, and achieving the overall look that you desire in your space. Today we delighted to share some helpful tips from our own expert designer, Kelly Winn.

First, you need to know the basics; the fiber type, choosing a style or pattern and the color of the carpet. A big factor you may want to consider is the warranty and longevity of the carpet . By checking off each item on the "basics" list, you will be able to evaluate what style and the carpet type that would be most functional for your home and lifestyle.

1.Fiber Type

Nylon- The most well-known fiber when it comes to synthetic carpet. It has a strong resiliency and is extremely durable, meaning your carpet will keep its shape making it less likely to mat or crush. Will perform the best over time.

Polyester- Polyester has built-in stain resistance and is soft to the touch. Polyester is less expensive but can be prone to matting and crushing. Best applied in light traffic areas.

Olefin- Resistent to mildew and will not absorb liquids making clean up easy. It has a great softness to it and is mostly manufactured in a looped style to look like wool. It is also resistant to sun fading.

Triexta- Think durability of nylon, resistance of polyester and the softness of olefin. This fiber is stain resistant and will not absorb water allowing for spills to puddle on top of your carpet. With its fade and UV resistance, its comfortable softness makes triexta a good value for the cost.

Once you have selected your desired fiber, be sure to look at varied carpets and brands to compare warranties. Some carpets may look very similar but the warranties will give you a greater clue on how they will perform over time. One may be 10 years and another 20 years. Be sure to select wisely if you are investing in a carpet that you want to last.

2. Style, Pattern and Color

Now you are ready for the fun part, choosing the color pattern and design that is just right for your home! A helpful tip would be to bring along your paint color, fabrics and wood samples to the showroom. This will provide aid in selecting the best choice and color coordination. When it comes to coloring, consider the overall look. The entire room of the carpet will look a lot lighter than just the small sample.

Another helpful idea is to ask the dealer to order samples so that you will be able to see the coloring and pattern in your own home. Your own lighting will affect the color and may look different than what appeared in the store. Also, very light colors and very dark colors show more wear than the midtone colors. 

Lighter carpet coloring and very dark coloring will show more wear than a midtone color. Neutral colors will give you a longer shelf life to coordinate with different trends in design. You might want to make your fashion statement with a pop-of-color in an accent throw pillow rather than a bolder statement in your carpet.

The current designer trends in carpeting are showing plentiful low pile patterns, mixing textures together and even combining colors. My favorite brand for these patterns are Tuftex carpet. We love using the style "only natural" on stairs. it has the look of a great Sisal and is supremely design savvy.

When investing in your carpet, we cannot stress enough the importance of purchasing a high-quality carpet pad! Simply put, do not skimp on a great pad! A durable pad will help with the overall wear and tear on your carpet giving you longevity of your flooring. A good carpet pad will be more comfortable to walk on, and let's face it we all want happy feet! An excellent pad will also help your carpet to look its best for a much longer period of time.

If wall to wall carpeting does not suit your space or style but you still admire the softness, color and pattern it brings into your home, consider getting a carpet that can be custom sized and bound to specific measurements.  Our client adored this gorgeous patterned carpet and wanted to incorporate it into her home. A large rug was needed to ground this living area but was a challenge to find such a large size. As designers, we always want to achieve our clients' desires and create a look that is beautiful yet cost effective, so a custom carpet was a great option! 

There are many considerations when it comes to selecting carpet, and we are hopeful we could give some clarity as to what selection would be best for you and your lifestyle. Our talented designers at The Black Goose Design are always eager to assist our clients with a master design plan that suits your individual style. We want to make your designer dreams become a reality!

*Disclaimer: some photos from Tuftex carpet

Thank you for all your kind comments and suggestions for our "Ask A Designer" series. We are delighted to share with you today expert design advice so get those pencils ready for some serious note taking.  

One question stood out to us, “How can I mix patterns and not be matchy matchy.” This is a question that our designers at The Black Goose Design get asked daily! We have selected a few of our favorite spaces to show you to how to pattern mix like a pro!

Holladay Master Bedroom Remodel

Our client’s dream was to have a master suite that was calm and serene. The white shiplap walls were the perfect place to start. This consistent white throughout was our canvas on which to paint. The pop of color from the sea salt cabinet, the bold pattern of the grey buffalo check, all work to counteract the calm simple bedding. 

With such simple walls and bedding, we needed a rug to break up the solids and give life to the floor. This rug is like artwork and helps tie all the individual colors and patterns together.

Daybreak Retreat

We love how much our Daybreak client loves bold colors and patterns. Ali was perfect to help our client make all of these patterns come together flawlessly. It is important when mixing patterns to choose patterns of different sizes. We love that she mixed three various sized stripes in one room.

The dining room rug has a bold, large scale pattern, so to balance this Ali selected one color from the rug, and choose a pattern of a smaller scale to coordinate on the drapes.

The Black Goose Design Remodeled Showroom

Designing a showroom is always different than designing a home. Our showroom changes weekly, so we needed a neutral backdrop to show off our furniture. We at The Black Goose Design are obsessed with the paint color Swiss Coffee from  Benjamin Moore and this was our selection of paint for our stunning shiplap walls. We admire this handsome dark grey cabinet for this particular space, the size and scale fits perfectly in this room. We also loved how it anchored and gives depth to this wall that is 20 feet wide and 10 feet tall! We always are delighted when we can layer such a large space with amazing artwork. The new shiplap walls that were installed gives such a crisp feeling and adds textured interest. With such neutral walls and a custom light upholstered sectional, it is always important that the throw pillows, accessories and rugs have bold patterns that helped anchor the space and show off this classic style.

We hope that we have given you some helpful tips on how to mix patterns effortlessly without being perfectly matched. As designers, we always encourage our clients to be adventurous by incorporating playful patterns in your own home.

As designers, we are confident in assisting each one of our clients in achieving their design dreams and are always eager in making those dreams become a reality! We would be delighted to partner with you to create a master design plan for your space.

When the time comes to update your space we all seem to be in the same big debate, whether to start over and build a new home or to remodel your existing home? Perhaps you are thinking you might want to give your existing space a little "TLC" with a remodel update if you are not ready to take a giant step and build new. Not to worry, The Black Goose Design is here to give you some helpful hints and clarity in weighing out the options. We are hopeful that we can help you to find the answer to the ever frequently asked question, should you remodel or rebuild?

It is always beneficial to start with a list of your needs are and ask the following questions...

• What is the amount of living space I desire, do I need to scale up or down?
• Is my existing structure sound?
• Does the layout of my home work for my lifestyle presently and for the future?
• Is the styling of your home what you would like it to be?

By answering these questions honestly this can be a good way to start the process and will help you with your choice whether to start remodeling your home or to build new. 

New Build

Building a new home allows you to "restart" the design clock and gives you a fresh, clean pallete to work with not only from a design standpoint but architectually as well. There are many benefits of working with a clean slate and this may be a better option for you rather than remodeling. If you are feeling like the existing layout of your space is not working at all for your lifestyle, it may be a good indication that a design reset may be in your future. 

It is important to weigh out the factors of what your existing home may need, if you find that your needs can be met with minor changes then remodeling is completely doable. If your existing structure is not sound and cannot meet your personal living needs presently it may be time to rebuild.

A new build means ALL of the physical elements of a home will be reset including new appliances, roof, foundation, windows, flooring, updated kitchen and bathrooms, design savvy-styling and many more benefits can be added to this list of a fresh start. 

Remodel

Perhaps you are a bit hesitant to take a big leap and completely start over with a new build. If your exisiting structure is in good condition and you like the layout of your home but are in need of a few updated changes then remodeling is your answer! From a financial standpoint remodeling tends to be more affordable. Do keep in mind unexpected costs may arrive but sticking to a specific budget will help you stay on track and to prioritize where you want to improve your space. Even a wide-ranging update will still be more cost effective then starting a complete new build. 

*client remodel project before

Remodeling also gives you the flexibility to work sections of your home at your own pace. Perhaps upgrading your space size and layout is a priority  by reworking sections at a time this will give you the ability to create a customized space as you live presently and how you will continue to live in your home in the future. 

Updating your home is always a good idea and will increase the value of your home so you cannot go wrong with remodeling. The added bonus of comfort and ease of livability will make a huge improvement in your lifestyle making a remodel a win-win.

*client remodel after

Be sure to choose a contractor, builder or designer that you work well with. Having a professional understand your needs and desires for either a new home or remodeling project is HUGE and will make all the difference when it comes to the success of your end result. The designers at The Black Goose Design will carefully listen to your needs and create a master design plan that suits your individual needs whether it is a remodel or a new build.

Our expert designers are happy to assist you in making your design dreams come true. Our entire design team has tremendous experience in both new home construction and remodel projects and we are eager to help you achieve your design goals.

Whatever your choice may be your surroundings should make you happy, and give you a renewed feeling of tranquility and comfort!

The Black Goose design is always eager to share expert design advice at every opportunity! Today we are thrilled to announce we will be answering your most frequently asked questions by our own manager and buyer,  Randi Smith in future posts! Interior design is our absolute passion along with assisting our wonderful clients, so this combination is perfection! Stay tuned as we dish out delightful designer advice from the very best at The Black Goose Design!

Hello. My name is Randi Smith, I am the manager and buyer for The Black Goose Design. I have been with our parent company, Gardner Mill Company for over twenty-two years, and The Black Goose Design for six years. I have a master’s degree in economics, and was co-winner of the 2014 Salt Lake Parade of Homes Best Interior Design $1.5 million+ category. All of my experiences give me a unique ability to see both the logical and creative process of designing a home.

Parade of Home project Designed by Meagan Rae Interiors in Partnership with The Black Goose Design

Hiring a designer can be exciting, intimidating, stress reliving, and scary – all at the same time. I, and my fellow designers at The Black Goose Design see design first and foremost as a partnership. A designer will see elements you don’t and has the experience to know what questions to ask, what works and what doesn’t.

Client home update and remodel

As a designer, my job is to create a home that truly reflects the personality of the people who live in the space. I want to challenge my clients to think outside of the box and their comfort zone, because this is where the best ideas happen. I often tell my clients, you would never wear all your favorite clothes at once. You wear the little black dress, with the statement shoes. The same goes for your home, you need pieces that are stars, and pieces playing a supporting role.

Archibald's Restaurant remodel design project

I am in awe of the design experience of the team at The Black Goose Design, and how they truly care about creating the perfect space for their clients. I often have people say they want their home to look just like mine, until they find out I have all white furniture. I don’t have kids, I don’t have pets, and I only allow for white wine.

Randi's personal home design

If you are starting out in the design process, my most important piece of advice is to find a designer who you connect with. Your designer is going to be a part of your home, in your private spaces and the person you call when you just can’t decide what kind of doorknob you want. Many of my clients become my dearest friends. You need a partner who will understands your style and wishes, but who you also trust to challenge you to create the best version of your home.

The Black Goose Design storefront remodel design project 

In twenty-two years, I have seen trends come and go and come again (I am looking at you plaid sofas!). Myself and my team, would love to offer our expertise to you. You can learn more about our design services here http://www.theblackgoosedesign.com/Interior-Design-Services.  We would also love to know what questions you have for us.

• What are your design challenges?
• Why do you hire a designer?
• How can we better serve you?

Be sure to visit our Instgram page to comment and question on this photo. What design aspects about this space would like to know more about? We will be selecting a random winner from those who comment! We look forward to better helping you!

Welcome back to part two of our best paint picks. Our talented designers are spilling their top paint choices when it comes to color! This year, the design trend is all about using color throughout your home and our designers saw a lot of it with this year's recent furniture market. Color is making a huge comeback, and there is no better way to incorporate vibrant color than with paint! 

Our expert designers are revealing their favorite classic paint colors and why they are drawn to these rich beauties! 

Ellie

• Isle of Pines by Sherwin Williams - " A rich green is a very popular 'go-to' color for 2017. Isle of Pines is one of my favorite green paints for cabinets or used as an accent because it is lively, yet organic."

• Gray by Benjamin Moore - "I consider this a charcoal gray paint a "color" not a neutral because it has a slight navy undertone that makes it rich and versatile. It is still a gorgeous dark charcoal paint without being too black or too gray.

Kelly

• Sassy Green by Sherwin Williams - "I love this pop of fresh green, especially coupled with white and navy."

• Romance by Sherwin Williams - "This is a sophisticated blush/coral color that is great for master bedrooms or powder bathrooms."

Lisa

• Sea Salt by Sherwin Williams - "This silvery blue-green is soft, peaceful and serene when paired with whites and neutrals. It pairs beautifully with pops of fresh color for a cheerful and bright space."

• Quiet Moments by Sherwin Williams - "Tranquil, light, blue-gray that inspires moments of quiet meditation. This soothing shade creates a look of elegance and simplicity."

   

   
  
  

Denise

• Flexible Gray by Sherwin Williams - "I have been drawn to this color lately...  it is nice that it can go a blush direction or a hint of purple.  I think it would be spectacular in a girls room or a lady's study."

   

• Stillwater by Sherwin Williams- "I'm naturally a blue girl so this was a simple. I like that you could put any shade of blue with it or cozy up an entire space painting all of your walls.  Darling in a boys room."

Michelle

• Rosebud by Sherwin Williams - "The most romantic and feminine color of all time. Looks beautiful in bedrooms and powder baths."

• Sanguaro by Sherwin Williams - "This color adds a fun earthy element to a bright color palette or jazzes up a neutral scheme." 

Ali

• Wedgewood Gray by Benjamin Moore - "A fabulous grey/green, I've never used it when the client didn't want to see MORE of this color."

• Woodland White by Benjamin Moore- "The palest hint of green. It's barely there with a soft hue to the green without being overwhelming."

Randi

• Collonade Gray by Sherwin Williams - "I have many clients who want to remodel, but aren’t ready to paint their gorgeous wood trim. Collonade Gray is my go to for blending wood tones with gray. It is warm but feels fresh and current."

Every paint pick that our designers have shared with you today are all truly classic colors. The design professionals at The Black Goose Design return to these beautiful choices time after time and they never disappoint, always giving the perfect backdrop to any space.

Incoporating paint color into your home has always been an excellent way to pack a huge punch of design drama that gives life to any area of your space!

_{*Due to individual device monitor limitations, colors seen here may not accurately reflect  Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin More  paint colors. To confirm your color choices, visit with one of our interior design professionals}

_{*Disclaimer photos from Shae McGee design, Desigerpaint, Creativity Exchange, Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, Home Coloriste, Houzz and Wordpress.}

Get ready to sharpen those pencils and take some serious notes, we have a wonderful treat on our blog today! Our talented designers are sharing their top neutral paint picks of all-time. 

Paint has the power to impact an entire room, having a strong affect on the overall mood and feeling of the space. If you are looking to make a dramatic impact to your home while getting the biggest bang for your buck, without-a-doubt your solution is as simple as a few cans of paint! 

Our designers are happy to reveal their top neutral paint choices and why they adore the color so much.

Ellie

• Simply White by Benjamin Moore- "I love all white walls and all white baseboards and Simply White is a soft white that will give you that clean palette yet will still feel cozy."

• Tricorn Black by Sherwin Williams - "This true black is fantastic for trim, doors or any accents of black in any room."

Kelly

• Agreeable Grey by Sherwin Williams - "I love the warmth that this grey adds to a room. It is aptly named and it agrees with almost any color."

• Hale Navy by Benjamin Moore - "I consider Hale Navy a great rich neutral. It's the perfect classic navy and complements accent colors in the same way a great navy suit shows off a great colorful tie or scarf." 

Lisa

•  Balanced Beige by Sherwin Williams - "A fabulous neutral for all those who are not part of the grey revolution. It's fresh, light and warm without the golden undertones of most beiges."

• Amazing Gray by Sherwin Williams - "Perfectly named, this grey has a lovely warmth to it and pairs well with every color!"   

Denise

• Silver Marlin by Benjamin Moore - "This a spectacular color for a bedroom, so nice in fact you can carry it on into the master bath. It is very serene and one of the closest colors I've seen that is comparable to a Restoration Hardware color."

• Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore -  "A definite store favorite! We recently remodeled a good portion of our store and we kept going on with it in multiple rooms! A happy combination of cream and white. I recently had a client do her entire kitchen cabinets in it, she is very happy with the way it turned out."  

Michelle

• Aesthetic White by Sherwin Williams - "This color is a chameleon! It looks cool against cream colored trim but gives a room an overall soft glow."

• Creamy by Sherwin Williams - "The perfect classic off white. Not too yellow not too white. It is a fantastic choice for cabinetry."

Ali

• Athena by Benjamin Moore- "This is a warm grey, almost looks like a warm-white.  Looks fantastic next to a bright white crown molding. If you want to try a grey, but are afraid it will look too cool in your home, try Athena!"

• Stonington Gray by Benjamin Moore - "A soft grey, looks excellent in a bathroom next to marble, tile or travertine. Also looks great painted on a vanity and/or island."

Randi

• White Dove by Benjamin Moore - "I love how white dove has a grey undertone. It is perfect for trims or exteriors. I selected White Dove for the exterior of CF Home and Archibald’s Restaurant at Gardner Village, because of how this white translates on an exterior."

• Mascarpone by Benjamin Moore – "White can truly be a tricky color, because there are so many different tones to white – pink, blue, grey, yellow. When I need a warm white I always start with Mascarpone. It gives a space warmth while remaining neutral."

   

   

   

By incorporating soft neutral color, the overall design and the impact of paint has a powerful payoff.  Revive and refresh your home with one of our favorite neutral paint picks!

_{*due to individual device monitor limitations, colors seen here may not accurately reflect Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin More  paint colors. To confirm your color choices, visit with one of our interior design professionals.}

_{*discliamer photos from houzz, house and home, wordpress, benchmark studios, juxtapost design, reneakeller designs, Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore}

Warmer weather evenings are upon us and we have helpful tips on how to entertain outdoors with serious style this summer! Gather your dearest family and friends and create a memorable outdoor evening filled with simple designer details.

• Scatter cozy cushions, throw pillows and snuggle-worthy blankets throughout your party. Guests will feel right at home and will want to linger a little longer!

• Use light and fresh neutral coloring in table linens. This can give you a good foundation allowing for mixing in a variety of dishes, cups and flatware. This combination always invites a comfortable and casual feel.

• Define and soften your entertaining space with a table runner or a patterned tablecloth. This will add color, texture and pattern into your outdoor area. 

• Create outdoor "stations" that will encourage your guests to mingle throughout the entire space of the party. Perhaps setting up a drink station on a darling bar cart, or a delectable dessert table across the patio giving your guests a chance to tour all of the outdoor details. 

• Utilize your entire yard. Whether you have an intimate space or a wide open area, use it to your advantage. Provide casual conversation areas by grouping seating options together like textured wicker chairs or plush ground pillows so guests are comfortable! Always be sure to place plenty of throw blankets throughout your space for chillier evenings.

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• Simple centerpieces such as fresh-cut flowers grouped in jars can make a statement without feeling too frilly! Serving edible treats are also an easy way to please your party guests and add color to your table . We see you eyeing those delectable goodies! Check out one of our favorite places to pick up these delightful sweets and fresh-baked goods at the Naborhood Bakery and cafe at Gardner Village, located right around the corner from The Black Goose Design in West Jordan, Utah. 

• Make sure you keep the ambience going throughout the entire evening by stringing patio lights or dispersing soft glowing candles for mood lighting. A little magical glow goes a long way!

• Group large glass jars together for a light and relaxed look, add fresh greenery clippings and your table is set for a cozy and casual evening.

A simple summer gathering is meant to be relaxing and enjoyable for everyone, even the host. With just a few details you can entertain effortlessly and enjoy having your dearest friends and family all-together for a most memorable outdoor evening!

We all have experienced the excitement of selecting that perfect piece of high-quality furniture and admired it's beautiful details wishing it could stay "new" forever! The Black Goose Design is here to help you always have that feeling when it comes to taking care of your furniture . Today we are giving you some helpful tips on how just a little tender loving care for your furniture will go a long way when it comes to achieving longevity of your most cherished furniture pieces. Just as you care for and clean your home with daily or weekly tasks, furniture should be included on that list as well!

When you have finally invested and filled that picture perfect room with furniture you adore, ensure that investment is well-maintained and looking it's best for years to come. It takes a very small amount of your time to properly maintain and keep your furniture looking fresh and renewed. A little love and attention towards your furniture can go a long way and is well worth the extra care.

1. Wood Care

The natural beauty of wood is stunning and with the proper care it will endure many years of use.

• Be aware of where your wood pieces will be placed in a room. Make sure that wood is never in direct sunlight for an extended period of time this will help to avoid fading the finish.
• Keeping wood dry is also essential for good care, be sure to wipe up any spills right away. Wood that may be exposed to moisture leads to warping the structure of the piece and the finish to peel away.
• Protect your wood table from scratches or dents with a tablecloth or fabric table runner. Never ever place hot pots or pans directly on a wood surface, hot temperatures may bubble and lift the protective finish burning the wood.
• Avoid placing any type of material on top of your wood that may contain chemicals that could penetrate your piece and potentially leave a permanent mark in the finish. Always make sure wood furntiure is clean and dust free. Dust with a clean cloth or a small amount of quality furniture oil and remember to dust with the grain of the wood this will keep surfaces stratch free, rich and beautiful.

2. Upholstery Care

Show some love to your favorite cozy chair or sofa, these pieces get used daily and can take some wear and tear!

• Upholstery needs proper care, just because you cannot see it does not mean it is not there. The same amount dust that ends up on your wood surfaces is on your upholstered pieces as well! Frequent vaccuming of your upholstered pieces will help to prevent dust build-up embedded in the fabric fibers.
• You live on your furniture and spills will happen, when they do be sure to immediately gently blot-up spills, do not rub! Rubbing back and forth will break down the fabric fibers leading to pilling of the fabric and possibly setting the stain.
• A professional cleaning of your high-quality upholstery at least once a year is recommended and is key for longevity and freshness!
• Most upholstery fabrics have a cleaning code or a lettering code. Generally most upholstery grade fabrics will have an "S" code cleaning label, meaning it must be cleaned with professional grade cleaning solvents not soap and water. The fibers of an "S" cleaning code will not react well when cleaned by regular detergents. Occasionally fabrics marked with a "W" code can be cleaned with a water-based cleaner, and distilled water is usually recommended. 

3. Cushion Care

Caring for the inner cushioning of your upholstery is just as important as taking care of the outside.

• Be sure to "fluff" up your inner cushions and throw pillows, this helps with maintaining their proper shape!
• Always rotate your loose cushions, we know there is always a certain spot you always like to sit so don't let it get saggy! To avoid over-use and sagging try rotating and turning over your cushions. Even wear throughout your sofa or chairs and can really help with extending the life of your inner cushioning.
• Your cushions will give you the best performance and support when they are consistantly rotated and "fluffed".

4. Leather Care

Leather is supple, rich and a naturally gorgeous product that is so durable. To maintain it's beauty you will need to care for it properly! 

• Be aware of where your leather may be placed, leather can crack and appear dry when it is placed near a heat source like a furnace vent or a radiator. Keep your leather pieces at least two feet away from heat sources. Avoid keeping leather in exposed sunlight, just like wood and upholstery the sun can potentially ruin your beautiful leather by fading the hide.
• The use of a good leather cleaner and conditioner every six months is recommended, leather can dry out just like skin. Replenish it's moisture by applying a good leather conditioner to your piece this will aid in bringing back it's richness.
• Although leather is strong and can take some use, be aware of sharp objects that could potentially puncture or scratch the hide. If a scratch does occur apply a small amount of distilled water and blot with a clean dry cloth.
• Keep in mind leather will soak up oils so be aware of any overspray of furniture polish.This could damage the leather hide or could leave it feeling sticky.
• Always clean with a damp cloth, vaccum and dust properly by keeping the surface clean, this allows for the leather to breathe and helps the hide to last longer.

A little love and attention towards your furniture can go a long way and is well worth the extra care. The Black Goose Design offers a furniture protection plan by Guardsman. A protection plan is the best way to care for your furniture investment. Guardsman's Furniture protection plan and cleaning products will give you peace of mind when it comes to lifes "uh-oh" moments like spills, stains and even damage! 

Take care of your furniture investment by properly maintaining each piece! Happy Cleaning!

There are so many benefits that come from partnering with an interior designer when taking on a home project, remodel, or even selecting a paint color. As interior designers we view every project and client tremendously important no matter the size or what the project may entail. Starting any home project may feel overwhelming at first, but with the assistance of an experienced designer by your side you can feel confident that the project will be completed with professional expertise and serious style!

Whether your current project is building a home or if you are feeling the need for a refreshing update in your space with unique accessories an expert designer can help you achieve your desired look. Creating a master design plan will give you a guide as to what your design style and end goal may be. Our expert designers are eager to be involved from concept to completion of any design project.

We are delighted to share a design project with you today that involved a bit of updating, it all started with the idea of giving a refreshed look to some fireplaces. This grand fireplace was a dramatic focal point in the room which we wanted to maintain but brighten-up the entire room a bit. With some reconstruction of the fireplace a new transitional design was achieved that included a clean-lined mantel yet still gave a dramatic look to the space. A fresh new coat of paint instantly illuminated the room making a tremedous difference in the overall styling. Beautiful light and airy custom furniture paired with a ravishing rug and goregous accessories completed this stunning revamped space!

What an amazing difference from dark and dramatic to light and refreshing! With just a few changes this entire room was instantly transformed giving new life to this space. 

Adding perfectly plush pillows into your sofa is a simple and effective way to update the entire look of your room. Mixing in a variety of color, texture and pattern within your throw pillows can change the overall feel of the space.

New lighting features are also a great way to update a space, unique fixtures give such character to a room and are easy to install! A designer can give you amazing ideas on how to ideally illuminate your home with the correct lighting features that introduce ambience and drama to a space.

A design project as simple as incorporating new accessories and artwork into your home will give an updated and refreshed look! Designers have a trained eye for executing correct proportion, scale, styling and functionality when it comes to accesory installation. The best part about having an expert designer install those dramatic designer details is all you have to do is sit back, relax and relish in design perfection!

Our interior designers wll assist you in creating a master design plan making your dream home become a reality. Our designers are committed to deliver big and beautiful designer results no matter what size your project may be!

If there was one valuable piece of design advice our talented designers here at The Black Goose Design would share with a client looking to start a design project, without a doubt it would be to invest in a master design plan with a professional interior designer!

Taking on any design project may seem a bit overwhelming, especially when your are constructing a new home. There are so many critical choices and elements that go into building a home, but in the end you want to feel assured that you made the best decision possible from beginning to end.

Today we are sharing our top five reasons why you should invest in an interior designer for home building success!

1. Time is Valuable

The new construction of a home can consume a fair amount of time...valuable time. You could spend an endless amount of it researching products, selecting materials, trying to coordinate coloring and wondering if what you are selecting is going to be the best choice for your new space. Our designers understand your time is valuable, by partnering with an expert designer we can assist you in your project and ease the decision-making process. Having an experienced designer be by your side throughout the entire building process will give you reassurance that every detail of your new home will come together perfectly. A professional partnership between you, your home builder and an expert designer will ultimately put you on a path for design planning success.

2. Avoid Costly Mistakes

Don't let the "whoops" factor happen to your new project especially when you are building your dream home. Those little mistakes can end up costing you big not only finacially but with time. Interior designers have a trained eye and are professionals in every aspect of design. We can assist in the overall vision of your home. Experience the feeling of being confident that your investment will be taken care of and managed properly, allowing the end result to be completed just as you had envisioned.

3. Professional and Complete Master Design Plan

As designers, we are delighted when are involved throughout the entire design process, from the first consultation to placing the very last interior design detail! Having a complete master design plan where all design elements are incorporated- including exterior finishes, flooring, wall treatments, hardware, lighting features, paint color pallete selection will allow for all the design details to be in place when it comes time to move onto furniture and space planning. A professional plan of action is the key to a successful home build. When you partner with a designer, every detail of your new home will be carefully considered and will be thought through with expertise. 

4. Investing in Your Lifestyle

When constructing a new home, it all comes down to marrying functionality with stylish design to suit your individual lifestyle. It is critical as designers that we reflect our client's personal design style within their home. As interior designers, our experience of assisting with thousands of homes over the years has given us elite experience and ensures that what we create with our clients remain true and timeless to their design preference and lifestyle. Design done well will give you the pleasure being surrounded in a beautifully-designed home that is tailored to how you actually live in it.

5. Product Knowledge and Resources

Building a new home can come with options and a lot of them. A designer has the expertise and knowledge of narrowing down those many choices into smart options specifically for the client and type of home being built. Designers are constantly aware of the latest styles and have access to the highest-quality materials in the industry. When it comes to finding the best products, a designer can accurately manage not only functionality but is also capable of staying within the client's budget without sacrificing designer-styling.  

By partnering with an one of our expert designers at The Black Goose Design, your home investment will be effectively maximized. A master design plan and layout for your home is essential for all the design pieces to come together with ease and style. We can create an entire vision for your space from start to finish with a plan and a purpose that will fit your personal lifestyle for you to enjoy for many years to come!

Welcome back to the second part of how to select a ravishing rug to complete that desired designer look for your home. In our last post we had touched on the content of the rug and the best application for where your gorgeous new rug may be placed. Let our designers help guide you through the next step of the rug selection process.

Once you have selected your perfect area rug, the next step is selecting your size and placement of the rug. A great question we as designers get time and time again is - "what is the correct size of rug should I be looking at in my space?" Choosing the correct sizing and scale are key when it comes to area rugs. The rug is your foundation to your living area so choosing the right size and placing it correctly is critical to a well-balanced room. 

1. The Placement

Typically you want your rug large enough so that all pieces of furniture placed in the room are connected or touching the rug, creating that grounding effect and defining your seating space. An excellent way to know exactly how large of a rug you will need is to tape off the desired size to see the measurement visually and give you a good idea of how much of the floor would be covered giving the room balance. The sketch below shows a great example of this rule.

2. The Size

When it comes to dining areas, this can be a tad tricky to tackle. A general rule to help guide you for your dining space is to maintain at least 18" to 24" out from the table giving you access to pull your chair from the table yet still be seated on the rug surface. When in doubt it is usually best to go bigger if you are debating between two sizes, and asthetically it is visually pleasing and appears balanced.

Rugs do come in varied sizes depending on the manufacturer. General sizing is usually, 4ft x 6ft, 5ft x 8ft, 7ft x 9ft, 9ft x 12ft and even larger. Have a good idea on the size you are after before you begin your rug hunt because this will help you narrow down your rug choices. 

 3. Complete the Look

Rugs add such a soft warmth and welcoming feeling to a space they also contribute pretty detailing to any room. They are appealing in design, add visual interest and can make all the difference for a beautifully-designed space! An area rug will complete your space and is the must-have item for cohesively bringing together your entire room with ease.

The Black Goose Design carries a large selection of rugs from companies that offer a variety of durablity options, beautifully patterned and vibrant colored rug pieces to suit your personal design style.

Refresh your space, pamper your floors and complete your home with a ravishing rug!

The Black Goose Design is sharing a little inside designer secret when it comes to the ONE item that will instantly complete a room and bring it to life!

Have you ever felt as if your room was missing something and it just didn't feel complete? Most of the time the missing element is an area rug. This essential piece acts as a grounding feature and a visual focal point in your space. Placing an area rug in a room prevents the feeling as if your furniture was "floating." An area rug will tie your entire floor plan and furniture pieces together with ease, and rugs are a must-have piece to a well-designed room.

The simple element of adding an area rug to a room has the power to pull your entire designer look together creating a cohesive feel into your space. Think of an area rug as stunning artwork for your floor. It can add playful pattern, a burst of color and neccessary texture to your room. The search for the perfect rug can be somewhat of a challenge but our expert designers are here to give you some useful tips on what to look for and helpful sizing guidance when selecting the ideal rug for your space.

 1.Durability and Use 

Consider where the rug will be placed in your home. You will want to feel at ease with the durability and maintenance of the rug especially if it will be located underneath a dining table or a high-traffic area. One of the most durable types of material that is woven into a rug is the celebrated natural wool rug! Wool is naturally thick, strong yet still maintains a softness about it. Wool also contains a built-in protectant called lanolin that acts as a sort-of defense against moisture and it can repel small spills making blotting up those little "uh-oh" type accidents easier. Wool can be a bit on the expensive side but it is more than worth the investment. A well-woven wool rug has natural, amazing attributes that can endure many years of use and eventually become a treasured heirloom piece. Feast you eyes on some of our most luxurious and favorite wool rugs!

Other natural fibers could include cotton, jute, sisal or bamboo. Each is a natural option for area rugs depending on your comfort level and durablity expectations. These particular fibers may be more sensitive when it comes to high-traffic areas, and generally these materials would act as good use for a medium to low traffic area of your home. 

2. Content of the Area Rug

Synthetic fibers are also an option for durable area rug content. Similar to how fabric threads are combined, the same idea is applied here. When synthetic fibers are combined together, they can produce a strong and somewhat durable piece. Acrylic has the ability to clean up easily and can mimic a wool-like feel if a soft rug appeals to you. Polyester, polypropylene, olefin, viscose, rayon and nylon are all good options. They typicallly can retain their color fastness, they are resistant to mold and mildew and also have a soft hand to them. The design industry has even created an evironmentally-friendly material called PET which is made up of a durable polyester fiber and recycled plastic bottles, eco-friendly and extraordinarly exquisite!

These rugs have a blend of viscose and wool giving a patinated vintage look. We love the subded pattern adding just enough interest without overwhelming the room.

3. Designer Style

Now that we have covered the content and durability of the area rug now comes the fun part, selecting the perfect pattern and style for your room. When introducing an area rug into a space it comes down to finding that precise balance of pattern, color and texture. Think about the other pieces in your room, are they neutral based pieces? If so, it may be a good idea to select a rug that will bring life and vitality into your space, perhaps something with an eye-catching pattern. This same idea can be applied if you have bold and dramatic furniture pieces, by bringing in just a touch of color and subdued pattern in your area rug can complement your beautiful furniture pieces and still achieve your desired designer style!

You will not want to miss part two of our ravishing rug post coming soon! We will be spilling expert designer tips on the perfect area rug placement and size for your space. 

Welcome back to part two of our educational designer tips on how to select the perfect sofa. Our last blog post we had touched on the construction of the frame, inner cushioning and function. Throughout this post, we will be focusing on the visual design of the sofa, the fabric and how to choose the right upholstery and durability level for your needs. First, you really need to know what a textile is, so let us help with the details. Really there are two categories of fibers that make up fabric, natural fibers and synthetic fibers.

Natural fibers like cotton, silk, wool and linen lend a softer touch but have a tendency to be a little less durable. However when they are combined with synthetic threads such as polyester, acrylic or viscose, those softer natural threads can become strengthened yet still provide a cozy welcoming touch.

The combination of these specific fibers are blended together in specific amounts to form what we see as fabric. Certain fibers in the fabric can determine its durability, comfort level, luster, color retention and how easy it is to clean.

Every fabric is made up of a combination of different fiber content bringing us to our next fabric factor, the grade of the fabric. Most upholstery companies separate their fabrics into specific "grades" of fabric. This specific grading system can determine a price point factor when it comes time to determining the price of a custom sofa.

Factors of the grading system can range from performance ability, a printed pattern verses a woven pattern, or the construction and fiber content of the fabric. The grading of fabrics can start from a grade "G" which is usually the least expensive and range up to a double lettering grade which would be more of a complex weave or possibly a higher thread count of the fabric, which would be a bit on the higher end of price.

We all want our beautiful sofa and fabric to withstand the everyday use of our family and friends giving us the longevity we desire in an upholstered piece. Now the question is just how durable of a fabric should you be considering?

The durability of a fabric can be measured, this is called a double-rub. Double-rub refers to how well the fabric can stand up to a constant rub or a wear test before it gives way. Fabric is tested using a machine that passes a pad back and forth over the fabric, each pass is called a "rub". Typically residential fabrics can range between 10,000 - 25,000 double-rubs. For example, if you are looking for a heavier more durable wear you would most likely want to be considering strong blended fibers like a rayon/polyester blend because this would hold up a bit better verses a 100% cotton textile.

The design industry has developed stunning fabrics that have come a long way when it comes to high performance and family-friendly upholstery. The Black Goose Design carries Lee Industries and Wesley Hall both wonderful, custom upholstery companies. These companies offer an amazing selection of these high-performance fabrics that do not look like your typical indoor/outdoor fabric, they are super design savvy! There are so many options when it comes to these amazing durable fabrics that are not only washable but are stain and spill resistant even fade resistant! Yes, you read that correctly - today you can have best of both worlds with pure sofa perfection and practicality.

It is important to note that if your sofa will be a highly-used piece of furniture consider how it is recommended to be cleaned and maintained. Often times most fabrics have a cleaning code or a lettering code. Generally most upholstery grade fabrics will have an "S" code cleaning label, meaning it must be cleaned with professional grade cleaning solvents not soap and water.

The fibers of an "S" cleaning code will not react well when cleaned by regular detergents. Occasionally fabrics marked with a "W" code can be cleaned with a water-based cleaner, and distilled water is usually recommended. This reduces the chances of pulling the pigment out of the fabric color. 

The end result is a gorgeous custom sofa piece to call all your own. With hundreds of fabric choices, your designer should help guide you to a sofa and fabric that will be practical for your daily use and lifestyle. Dramatic detailing can also be applied like a decorative nailhead trim or contrasting fabrics, this will highlight your sofa with distinct details and showcase a unique and custom look. Play up pattern and texture with varied throw pillows that will allow your sofa to show your personal design style.

Every element of how a sofa is put together are all important factors when selecting your perfect sofa. When all of these elements come together cohesively, a stunning work of art is produced. Creating a high-quality sofa takes many labor intensive hours to complete a beautiful piece that is custom made just for you. Committing to a well-made quality piece is worth the investment and you will appreciate its total beauty both inside and out.

The Black Goose Design offers supreme design services from expert interior designers that will create a master plan and assist you every step of the way of the entire design process.  Investing in furniture that holds a standard of the highest quality will give you the longevity of timeless design for years to come.

The Black Goose Design is sharing some excellent educational designer tips when it comes to selecting that stunning sofa you have been dreaming of.  The sofa is likely to be one of the most well-used pieces of furniture in you home, so what really should you be looking for? Size, level of comfort, fabric durability or all of the above? Absolutely all the above, but most of all you want an ultra-comfy functional sofa that suits your every design need within your home. With so many questions it may seem a bit overwhelming but don't worry becuase we can answer all of those need-to-know questions and more in our two-part blog post on some very useful tips on selecting the perfect sofa!

The sofa is a piece of furniture you most likely use everyday. Think about it, that's 365 days just in one year! That is a lot of use so you will want to ensure it stands up to your daily functions and that it is a comfortable high-quality piece of upholstered furniture.

1. Selecting a Frame Style

With the many options of frame styles to select from transitional to traditional our talented designers will help guide you to a sofa frame that will fit your design personality. You want to love the style of the sofa but also think of the functionaly of the sofa. Style is what draws us to a particular piece but it is also important to know what is it constructed of.

• Think of your sofa as an investment. You want it to perform and give you and your family longevity. A well-constructed sofa should endure everyday use. Make sure the frame is manufactured from a sturdy kiln-dried hardwood. Kiln-dried is a process that removes any moisture from the frame making it less susceptible to possibly distorting the frame shape and also will help with strenghthening the wood. 
• It is best that the sofa houses a quality suspension system, this is the constructive part that allows you to sit down on the sofa without feeling like you are sinking into a hole. Ideally you should be looking for an "8-way" hand-tied suspension system. This system means each spring beneath your seat is individually hand-tied to eachother and also tied to the frame itself. The 8-way hand tied method distributes your weight evenly when you are sitting preventing your cushions from looking "saggy" overtime. Durable webbing straps should also be placed over this system giving you a sturdy well-built frame.

2. Cozy Cushioning 

Every comfort level varies from person to person but there may be options when it comes to your inner cushioning when ordering a custom sofa. Lee Industries is a wonderful, upholstered furniture company that gives you varied options of inner cushioning for your desired comfort level. A  high-resiliency foam should be used inside of the cushion. This foam will hold up well and give you that little bit of "push-back" when you sit down allowing you to sink in just a bit while the cushion still keeps its shape. There are also options with coils placed into the center of the cushion for an even firmer feel; or if a feather cushion is your preference, that is offered as well. Whatever you select, be sure your cushioning is wrapped in a down-proof ticking or quality dacon wrap as this ensures that your feathers and fill will stay right where you want them to. You can find these wonderful cushion options on Lee Industries website here.

3. Form and Function

We all want our sofas to be pleasing to the eye, but function should also play a large part in your sofa selection.

• Think in terms of the overall use of your sofa, will it function and serve you properly in the room it will be placed in? Measurements are key and could be a deciding factor when you make your selection. Look at the overall measurements of the piece, be sure it will fit in your space yet still allow for high traffic areas to flow easily.
• Overall measurments are just one part of the sofa, now you should look at interior measurments. How deep the cushions are, what the seat and arm height might be, would you be more comfortable in a cushion back or a tight-back sofa? These considerations are all vital measurments and factors to fit the right sofa to your comfort level. There are many solutions and options to fit every need. If you need a bit of assistance with this decision, The Black Goose Design offers superior design services. Our talented designers will measure and draft out your space, listen to your needs and help guide you to the ideal sofa size tailored to your exact needs.

You will be ahead of the sofa selection game if you are educated on the type of product you are selecting. Keep in mind these key points when shopping for your dream sofa, you will make a great choice on a sofa that will provide you the longevity you desire!

*Disclaimer: some photos from Lee Industries and Wesley Hall

Have you ever wondered what the secret is to sucessfully creating that perfect bedding look? We all desire that gorgeous bedding ensemble that makes you want to cozy up right in the middle of all of that beautiful bedding!

Well, get ready for some expert designer tips on how to turn your bedding into a luxurious layered slice of heaven!

Creating a designer bedding look can seem complicated, but really this process can easily be achieved by thinking in simplistic layers! Be sure to begin with a quality bed that you truly adore! Whether your style is simple and modern, or timeless and traditional, The Black Goose Design carries an exclusive selection of stunning beds that will complement your beautiful bedding. 

 1. The Foundation

Start off with the correct foundation for your bedding. By "foundation" we mean investing in an excellent mattress. We spend a fair amount of time in our beds so why not be kind and rejuvenate your body with a great night's rest on a high-quality mattress! Our expert designers agree that bedding can be beautiful, but overall it must be functional. The Black Goose Design has well-constructed mattresses that provide ideal support and will suit your level of comfort.

2. Selecting a "Base"

The first layer is key as this will determine a "base" color for your bedding. Our expert designers suggest selecting a duvet that is neutral. This allows for flexiblity in other areas of the bedding where you may want to pull in an accent color or a pattern. Perhaps this particular color or pattern could be applied within your throw pillows or an additional duvet at the foot of your bed. A neutral base will also prevent the overall presentation of the bedding from looking too busy.

Another helpful tip to add "fluff" within your bedding is to incorporate a feather bed into your duvet. This simple trick will make a world of difference in your bedding when completing your look! A feather bed will contribute depth, dimension and drama. These three elements are important factors when creating perfectly put-together bedding.

3. Create Height with Pillows

Now we can begin filling in those essential layers with pillows. You want to create height and fullness throughout bed because it is essential for keeping visual appeal. This can be attained by using larger sham pillows as a starting point. Keep in mind the scale of the bed. If you happen to have a larger scaled bed, it is best to use a larger-scaled pillow or sham to set as your background. This will keep the balance throughout your bedding grouping.

 4. Fill-in with Euro Shams

The second layer of placing 26" Euro shams will naturally allow the eye to fall from the larger background shams toward the front of the bed. This is where color and pattern come into play. Let your personal design style show within the shams. Our design team at The Black Goose Design always suggests using a quality feather down-fill inside of your shams because the down will keep its shape visually, giving a look of fullness.

5. Add Depth with a Duvet

Here comes the extra "fluffy" part, an additional duvet folded at the foot of the bed lends softness and great texture. 

A lighter weight quilt that complements your Euro shams can also be included. This is an ideal way to tie in the coloring or pattern that the Euro shams may have allowing the bedding to flow properly.

6. Include Personality with Pillows

Now here comes the really fun part, blending all of those lovely throw pillows together! Bedding comes to life when mixing in varied patterns and color so do not shy away from mixing different pillows together. When mixing in your gorgeous throw pillows, remember to balance larger patterns with some smaller prints and solids. This an excellent expert guideline to follow. Also change up the sizing of your pillows as this keeps visual interest and will create a cohesive look to your bedding.

7. Placing those Gorgeous Details

Oh yes, there is one final touch, mingling in a dramatic textured throw. This is a welcoming invitation to cuddle up in all of those glorious bedding layers.

Sleep in style and ultimate comfort with cozy bedding layers and perfectly-plumped pillows. The Black Goose Design has one-of-a-kind bedding and extraordinary throw pillows ready to grace your beautiful bed. Allow our expert designers to create a personalized luxurious designer bedding look just as unique as you!