Welcome back to the second half of our two-part remodel and reveal of this stunning Draper home. In our previous post, we looked at how even when faced with the obstacles an older home can present, amazing things can happen if you know how to see beyond challenges.

All remodel images in this post provided by Lindsay Salazar Photography. 

Now, let’s look at how your team at The Black Goose Design can meet you where you are in life and design a space that will work with your age, lifestyle, family size, and more. The family that calls this happy place home is busy. They have four active children, and they like to entertain. A main goal of theirs with this remodel was creating a space that better accommodates the hustle and bustle while also providing a calm spot to return to at the end of the day. Here’s how Del Reanne Lucas Wilson, our senior designer on this project, made that happen.

A SPACE FOR FAMILY

“It starts with the sectional,” Del Reanne said. “We customized a spacious piece that works well with the floorplan and offers plenty of seating. It was upholstered with specific performance fabric and upgraded cushions. These are not only beautiful touches, they also help the furniture better withstand wear and tear.”  

“Framing the sectional with two matching console tables provides added seating and gives the kids a place to eat and do homework their homework,” Del Reanne said. “Bonus! No food on the sectional.”

STOP & DROP

Any busy family can benefit from a drop zone – a space near a main entrance, where you can place bags, keys, shoes, etc.

“By adding a bench behind the piano room, the family now has a space to pause when coming home,” Del Reanne said. “This added drop space also provides a natural segway to a main corridor that leads to the garage, mud room, and family room.”

WELCOMING WARMTH

While two of the primary colors used throughout this space are shades of blue and gray, this outcome is anything but chilly. Instead, it embodies warmth. How? It’s in the color selection and surrounding touches.

“This is a feel-good space,” Del Reanne noted. “Details like the warm tone of the island, the rich wood choices, and the upgraded lighting all work together and prove that you can use colors traditionally thought of as cool in ways that feel warm and welcoming.”

It’s amazing to see how this home came alive in this remodel. It went from a dark space to one that is light and airy. (See the striking before/after shots in our previous post, as well as additional after photos at the end of this post.)

“The new lighting works wonders,” Del Reanne said. “We added can lights and updated fixtures. The result is bright and airy, which is just right for the joyful family who lives here!”

DESIGNED TO LAST

What a transformation! And because thought was put into every detail, the look of this home will stand the test of time.

“We didn’t do trendy with this home,” Del Reanne said. “Instead, we focused on fresh. This way, the home feels current and stylish for a very long time.”

Beyond its timeless quality, the end result is also versatile.

“We incorporated high-end design that’s relatable across age brackets, demographics, and lifestyles, so it will age beautifully with the lovely family who lives here,” Del Reanne added. “They’ve been dreaming of a remodel for years, and I’ve loved helping them make it happen!”

Thanks for joining us on this two-part look at this elegant home remodel. Want more? We sat down with the homeowners to discuss this project and are sharing those videos on our Instagram account. You can also view the first half of this home reveal on our blog, here. To get started on your own dream project, stop by The Black Goose Design today.  

ONE MORE LOOK AT THE BEFORE

Because it's always fun to look back at the end of a project like this, we'll leave you with a few more "before" shots of this home. 

After months of work, reveal days are always our favorite at The Black Goose Design! Today, the big reveal is this gorgeous Draper, Utah home. In this, the first of two posts, we share some of the many details, including impressive before/after shots. They prove any kind of transformation is possible with an open mind and the right team by your side. (See part two of this remodel here.)

“This family really was the dream client,” said Del Reanne Lucas Wilson, the senior designer on this project. “They listened, trusted the process and were open to ideas.”

If you can imagine, this spectacular space came together in just four short months – an expedited timeframe, to say the least.

“The homeowners wanted the project complete by December, which was far from typical,” Del Reanne added. “Between the necessary city approvals, the design/planning phase, the custom work, and time needed to obtain materials, it’s difficult to completely control how long a process will take. With some foresight, we can try to make selections that we know will help expedite the process.” 

In looking at the before and after photos of this space, it’s impossible to imagine this work was done as fast as it was, especially given some of the obstacles in place.

“This home did present some funky challenges,” Del Reanne said. “It was a huge space when you walked in. It had high, vaulted ceilings, a large volume of space to fill and a dark and dated appearance. Then there was the hole in the floor for the stairwell, behind the piano. Not only was it very unsightly but also strongly negated any possibility of a feng shui flow.”

Fortunately, Del Reanne saw the potential beyond these obstacles and knew just what to do to make a large, open area feel warm and welcoming.

WALL WISDOM

“I know people don’t often add walls in remodels,” Del Reanne said. “This was an instance where this was the perfect choice. By placing a statement wall behind the piano, we removed the hole in the middle of the floor and created this stunning backdrop. It also gave us a designated sitting space and broke up some of the vastness that was in place before. The brilliant chandelier added a beautiful brilliance to the whole area.” 

Before

After

FLOOR-TO-CEILING TOUCHES

The work continued overhead, where handcrafted architectural touches created a huge impact.

“We added shiplap and wood beams to the ceiling,” Del Reanne said. “The contrasting textures made all the difference in the scale and big volume that was in place before. It can be hard to identify with such an open area or even know where to begin. It’s important to remember the ceiling as a great source when looking to make a large volume feel more intimate.”

Underfoot, the same attention to detail was given.

“We added striking hardwood flooring throughout,” Del Reanne added. “Together with the ceiling, these updates changed the entire look of the home and made it feel more personable and inviting.”

FIREPLACE FOCAL POINT

The artistic touches continued with the fireplace. 

“We replaced the mantel and covered all of the old stone with woodworking that matched the paneling on the accent wall,” Del Reanne described. “We also added an entire new stone hearth and firebox surround. The result enhances the overall look and feel of the space and breathes new life into this focal point.”

Before

After

MORE TO COME

There’s more in store! You'll find the second half of this reveal here. It includes tips for creating a space that fully supports a young, busy family while also being fresh and elegant. In addition, we’ll have information on how you can watch interviews with the homeowners. You won’t want to miss it. Until then, we'd like to give a special thanks to Lindsay Salazar Photography for providing the images of the finished home. 

Welcome back to Zen House, the newly remodeled home of our co-owner here at The Black Goose Design, Joe Long. Joe also owns GV Construction and has put his specialized touch on many homes throughout Utah. We’ve loved seeing time being devoted to his own space. And what a striking space it is, too! See the first half of this two-part reveal here. 

GV Construction specializes in remodels, and this home is a gorgeous example. It was built in 1969 by iconic Utah architect Ron Mullen. What a cool starting point for the GV/Goose team! To give you an idea, take a look at this awesome before/after shots.

“Going into this project, we knew we wanted to honor the original architect’s style but elevate and modernize things,” Jessika Long, lead designer on this project, said. “From the flat roof and skylights to the sunken pit living room and fireplace focal point, the home already had so much character!”

Walls were removed. Additional skylights were put in. Fixtures were replaced. Ducts and piping were even moved!

“When we cut into the flooring, we found asbestos piping from the ‘60s,” Joe noted. “Knowing that needed to be replaced, we made the decision to overbuild the roof and place these fixtures above. Doing this makes the home far more energy efficient and adds to the overall mass of the home.”

“That’s the kind of thing that happens when you work with a company like GV Construction,” Jessika added. “These aren’t ‘quick flips.’ Thought and expertise are put into every stage and every aspect of the process.”

This home is so open and bright, which is quite impressive for a house built in the ‘60s. 

“The lighting might be my favorite thing about this house,” Jessika said. “From all of the natural light coming in through the floor-to-ceiling windows and added skylights to the LED touches, it really does create ambiance.”

“I love that you can go into the half bath and not even have to turn on a light,” Joe added. “The light coming in from the skylight is all you need.”

The relaxing vibe extends to the outdoors, where you’ll find a fireplace, a zen garden, and other special touches.

“Because this home is a one-story rambler without a basement, I had to consider my storage space,” Joe recalled. “Not wanting to clutter up the garage, I decided to go with a shed. We built this one in such a way that it functions as storage as well as part of the overall landscaping. By extending the roof of the shed out, we were able to create a covered patio for the hot tub.”

The cold plunge and sauna are also in this relaxation equation. What a lovely way to start any day!

Of course, there’s a finishing touch on the front, exterior wall that really sets the tone for this Zen House.

“I work on many projects with a stone mason who treats every project like a work of art,” Joe noted. “One day during the building process, I came out to find a covered pallet. It held a yin-yang made of stone. I loved it and knew it belonged right on the front of the house. Now, I have neighbors and passers by stopping often to tell me how much they love the design. I was touched to receive such a gift.”

“That’s the thing about GV Construction,” Jessika added. “They’ve fostered amazing relationships and quality partnerships with their subcontractors. Working with them, you know you’ll have dedicated, skilled artisans involved with your project.”

Want to embark on a remodel of your own? Contact GV Construction at 801.566.8903 or reach out to Joe directly at joe@gardnervillage.com. At The Black Goose Design, we’d love to help fill your newly remodeled space with the perfect furnishings and décor details. For ideas and more examples of Jessika’s work, including projects completed by GV Construction, check out @JesskiaLongCollective on Instagram. Finally, we’d like to thank Lindsay Salazar Photography for providing most of the images in this post.

Don’t forget, you can see more of Joe’s calming Zen House here. We hope it leaves you feeling relaxed, recharged, and inspired!

Welcome to Zen House! We’re so excited to share this remodel with you. We love all of our design reveals, but this one holds an extra special spot in our hearts. The home belongs to our co-owner here at The Black Goose Design, Joe Long, who also owns GV Construction, our sister company and the company who worked on this job. This is a two-part reveal. You can see the second half here. 

“Joe works so hard on each and every project he and his team do,” Jessika Long, the lead designer on this project, said. “It’s really nice to see that same love and effort be put into his home.”

Jessika is a not only the talented real estate agent and interior designer on this home project, she’s also Joe’s daughter. Who better to know just what vibe to create for his home?

“Getting to know my clients is an important part of my process, both as a real estate agent and a designer,” Jessika said. “I need to understand their vision and hopes for their home. Designing for my dad made that part easy. I loved working with him and selecting things that felt perfectly suited to his tastes and personality.”

“What a blast it was doing this project with my kid,” Joe added. “It’s really awesome to now live in this home and see her special touches throughout.”

The great thing about working with Jessika, GV Construction, and The Black Goose Design is that you don’t have to be family to be treated that way. Knowing you is always a top priority, and attention to detail is never sacrificed.

On this, the Zen House, you’ll see that quality throughout!  

“I wanted my home to be open enough for family and friends to gather while really focusing on everyday living,” Joe said. “That’s where the name Zen House came from; I wanted the surroundings to create a calm, light, relaxing atmosphere.”

“I know how important Joe’s morning routine is to him,” Jessika added. “That very much factored into our design choices. The outcome is peaceful yet intentional. Every space is used well and suited to Joe’s lifestyle, including the cold plunge, hot tub, and sauna, which he uses daily.”

The vision for this space started before the “sold” sign was even up.

“Before we even made an offer on the home, Joe and I were walking through it and bouncing ideas off each other,” Jessika recalled. “For instance, we knew we’d want to build on to the main bedroom to create a true owner’s suite. This kind of collaboration is what makes walkthroughs so much fun. Plus, it helps clients feel more confident and excited about their purchase.” 

Once the paperwork was complete and the home was Joe’s, everyone set to work on the remodel. This including building out into the yard to create the spacious owner’s suite. It features 10’ ceilings, includes an en suite bathroom (something the main bedroom didn’t originally have), and adds an impressive closet.

DESIGN SELECTION

Every color, material, and finish comes back to Joe’s personality.

“Knowing Joe, I knew this home had to have a mountain flavor,” Jessika said. “We started by selecting hardwood flooring and stonework. Wanting to cover much of the drywall, we then incorporated various natural elements. The walls transition from stone to concrete panels to metal. It all works together to create an earthy atmosphere.”

FURNITURE & FINISHING TOUCHES

One of the more challenging aspects of this redesign was making the furniture flow well.

“Because we took out so many walls to open up the space, it eliminated some of the more obvious furniture placement options,” Jessika noted. “My goal was making it easy to pass from one space to another. My challenge in doing so was making this open area also feel like separate, cozy spaces.”

Digital renderings, drawings, and tape to the rescue! It’s one of the many reasons it makes sense to work with a professional designer. They know how to create and furnish a floorplan in a way that supports how you’ll use the home. Plus, you won’t run into unwelcome surprises when a piece of furniture doesn’t fit or feels too small. The same is true for the exterior as well. It all gets concepted before the reality comes to be. Here's a look at the original landscaping art.

“Drawing everything up on paper and on the computer makes all the difference,” Jessika said. “I also measure and tape areas off to mark where furniture will go. Having visuals helps all involved!”

What about the task of creating separate spaces? It’s all in how you group your furniture. Rugs also work to mark the foundation of a seating area.

Like the foundational choices, the furniture and accents evoke a natural feel. Through earth tones, natural finishes, plants, and nature-inspired artwork, the calm created by the great outdoors can definitely be felt throughout.

There is more to see and learn about the Zen House, including the always-fun-to-see 'before' photos. Join us again next week for part 2. In the meantime, love something you see? Odds are we can get it for you. Contact The Black Goose Design or stop by to see what’s new. For more on GV Construction, you can reach email Joe directly at Joe@gardnervillage.com or you can call or text 801-566-8903. To see more of Jessika’s work and projects done by GV Construction, check out @JessikaLongCollective on Instagram.

A special thanks to Lindsay Salazar Photography for providing most of the photographs used in this post. 

See you next week for more! 

Hello! We’re delighted to introduce our new assistant manager at The Black Goose Design, Suzee King. Suzee has a rich management background at well-known design/home furnishing businesses. We’re so happy she now calls The Goose her professional home. Let’s get to know a bit more about her:

Q. What is it about this career move that has you the most excited?

I’ve worked in both retail, managing well known home décor and furnishing brands, and real estate, where my husband and I spent many years running a successful mortgage company. I enjoyed this work and feel the combination of experience really lends itself to this position. It has me very excited to move forward in my career in this way. Being able to do more custom work for clients is something I’m already enjoying. I also love management and being a part of this talented team.

Q. What are your favorite colors going into 2024?

Specific colors that really catch my eye right now are Regent Green and Antique Pewter, both by Benjamin Moore. Even though these are darker shades, they both add warmth, which creates interest and coziness to a home.

Q. What is your favorite area of the home to work on with clients?

A. Every area has something wonderful to offer, but the family/great room, where everyone congregates together, is my favorite. In my own life, I’ve loved creating a space where my adult kids can come home to and be together. I think this is what inspires me when helping others. Knowing I’m helping with an area where families can be together and feel comfortable is a special way to spend my time.

Of course, my desire for togetherness extends to my siblings and parents. There is no better way to spend time than with those you love. Speaking of love ... we all share a love for Disneyland. If we aren't gathered together at one of our homes, there's no place we'd rather be! 

Q. What’s a go-to tip you share with anyone embarking on a design project?

A. When working on YOUR home, make it about you first. Trends are fun. Design ideas are inspiring. But these things are nothing compared to personalized touches. Even if you’re working with a designer, don’t be afraid to speak up. Designers want you to love the outcome, and this includes adding your unique touch to every room you work on, whether or not it’s currently popular.

Q. How do you help someone make a space feel unique to them?

A. I spend time getting to know my clients and use that knowledge to visualize a space that feels like them. I believe a home should be more than just a space – it should also be a feeling. A well-designed space creates a mood representative of those who reside there. It’s why the time spent getting to know my clients is some of the most important time I spend on any project.

Q. How would you describe your personal design style/preference?

A. I’m a neutrals-first person. I tend to begin with a neutral pallet. Not only does this create an evergreen foundation, it also instantly makes an area feel cozy and inviting. With a warm, neutral base in place, I then love to work in pops of color and lots of texture. 

Q. What got you interested in design work?

A. I’ve always loved designing and updating my home. Because of that, friends and family often asked for my help on their own projects. All of this fueled my passion for this work, even before my career went in this direction.

Q. The new year is upon us. What is a trend going into 2024 that has you excited?

A. More color! It’s going to be a colorful year, which adds energy and excitement. That being said, don’t feel like you have to change your entire home based on this evolution. There are easy ways to work in colors you love without an overhaul. I’m also eager to see more organics in the coming year. Bringing the outdoors in with wood finishes and other elements is something that brings me joy.

Thank you for taking time with us, Suzee. We can’t wait to see you work your design magic in 2024!

If “finishing a design project” is one of your New Year’s resolutions, please give us a call or stop by. Suzee or any of our skilled team members would love to help you cross that worthwhile goal off your list. In the meantime, we’re all wishing you and yours a happy, healthy holiday and year ahead! 

Remodeling a space that you’re simultaneously living or working in may seem impossible. It isn’t. We know this from experience. Yes, because we’re trained designers, but also because we just renovating The Black Goose Design to update the showroom space and create new design offices, all while remaining open and operational. This project was spearheaded by our senior designer, Del Reanne Lucas Wilson, and she’s here to share some pointers and the big reveal with you.

“We remained open the entire time, and a busy time it’s been,” Del Reanne said. “We can do the same for you. We go to great lengths to be as inobtrusive and non-invasive as possible. We recognize an area can’t function if it’s completely down, which is why a big part of our job to stage every process and work around the life happening within.”

ROOM TO WORK

There is much to appreciate about working in a beautiful, historic building, but excess open space isn’t typically on the list. In fact, when this project began more than a year ago, there weren’t even individual desk space spaces for each of our designers. Wanting to offer our designers and clients the best experience possible, we knew this meant it was time for a remodel.  

Beyond needing more space to work, our team needed privacy and an area set apart from the high traffic of the main entrance.

“Our design offices were up front, just to the right of the front door” Del Reanne recalled. “It’s human nature to want to go right upon entering a space, which meant our offices were right in the way of a natural traffic pattern for customers, creating disruptions and distractions for the designers. Creating a new space in another part of the building gave us the privacy needed to give our clients our undivided, uninterrupted attention.”

ROOM FOR WORK

The client experience has been truly transformed through large work surface areas for layout out complete concepts, big screen media to enhance the presentation and easily access plans and websites, and, at the top of our list, top-notch lighting.

Of all the changes, the focal point has to be the island. More specifically, the striking chandelier overhead that draws you right in.

“I loved that chandelier and those bar stools,” Del Reanne noted. “They set the tone for the rest of the visual concepts to unfold.”  

For as impressive as the chandelier is, the real lighting magic comes from the three additional light sources. Integrating linear task lighting, overhead recessed LED can lights, and natural light from the many windows, it all comes together to create a winning combination.

“With so many different textiles and color variables that have to work together, perfect lighting is critical. You have to really be able to see every detail in every different material to insure the success of any project. The lighting in this room allows you to do just that. It really is perfect. I hate to dare and use that word to describe it,” Del Reanne laughed, “but … it really is!”   

TIMELESSNESS

Freshening and expanding a space doesn’t necessarily mean a drastic departure. We wanted the style to feel original to the building’s architectural integrity. It’s that rich history and personality that makes our building so unique. Otherwise, we’d build something new. It’s always more difficult to renovate than start from scratch, but we were up for the task.

“We didn’t want it to feel like an alien space landed inside this elegant, grand old lady,” Del Reanne laughed. “We wanted to preserve her historic beauty while still making her feel fresh.”

Sadly, one thing that didn’t survive was the original hardwood flooring. It was too far gone to refinish, which meant adding all new flooring. Keeping with our original roots, we opted for hardwood in a warm tone that isn’t too light or too dark and has a beautiful transitional pattern.

The original windows were another story.

“We weren’t going to touch the old, original casework,” Del Reanne said. “It’s a big part of what makes this space so memorable that can’t be manufactured. But you can always update a space without destroying its charm.”

This is where the new dark paint and custom window treatments came into play. They add depth and breathe new life while beautifully complementing the new, built-in bench seating.  

YOUR TURN

So, what does all of this mean to you? We hope it goes to show we can work within the confines of a working or lived-in space, that we’re trained to see potential that might otherwise remain unseen, and that we can bring your ideas and wishes to life, even when they feel impossible.

“Our talent is to take the goals of a client and realize them … that’s our job and we take it seriously while loving the whole process! It was fun to be on both sides of the table with this project,” Del Reanne said.

WORD TO THE WISE

Reaching this milestone would not feel complete without a shoutout to our business owners, Angie Gerdes and Joe Long. It’s because of their dedication and vision that passion projects like these are made possible at The Black Goose Design and our sister company, Gardner Village.

“We’ve got amazing owners,” Del Reanne emphasized. “They’re constantly, constantly looking at what’s next to better serve their employees, customers, and the community as a whole. They’re super responsive and make doing projects like this extra special. You aren’t going to find better people to work with!”

SEE FOR YOURSELF

Ready to see what all the fuss is about? Our hours are M–S from 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (MT). You can also call to schedule an appointment (801.562.1933). We hope you’ll stop by soon! For now, we'll leave you with a look at how this project came together. 

Welcome back to the impressive Kevin Murphy North American headquarters in Holladay, Utah. In part one of our reveal, we shared how Del Reanne Lucas Wilson, senior designer at The Black Goose Design, and her team used the company’s core values as her guidepost in designing this space. The result is a fashion-forward design that focuses on environment, performance, and overall employee satisfaction.

All photography by Lindsay Salazar.

Today, we’re breaking this design down to the custom level and looking at how personalized touches can take tenant renovations to new heights in a leased space (pending necessary building approvals, of course!). You’re in for a major treat! Besides sharing these inspiring design ideas, Del Reanne also shares many of her local sources for getting this next-level custom work done. Grab a pen and paper, open Notes on your phone, or simply get ready to take screenshots. These are details you’ll want to remember.

CUSTOM TOUCH #1: Logo Accent Pillows
Local Resource: Brent or Parker Burnham

K, these are cool! And they’re one of the first things to catch your eye upon entering the Kevin Murphy offices. Best part is, you won’t find these statement pieces anywhere else. That’s the beauty of having something made to order. Believe it or not, Brent or Parker Burnham can even print photographs on fabric for a truly one-of-a-kind look.

Learn how this statement wall came to be here. 

CUSTOM TOUCH #2: Motorized Roller Shades and Steel Work (columns, transoms, valances, trim, logos)
Local Resource: Site Shade Co, Jacob Packard

The Kevin Murphy name stands out in a big way throughout this office, thanks to local artistry. Incorporating your business logo into your space is a wise way to make your mark, and going with steel certainly adds to the elegance. Additionally, the custom valances elevate the look.

CUSTOM TOUCH #3: Ceiling Clouds
Local Resource: Creative West, Jake Riddle

Look up and you’ll notice an absence of typical office-building ceiling tiles. Wanting to open up the space, they decided to completely remove the low conventional ceiling and expose the whole ceiling, pipes and all! While the industrial look is on trend, it didn’t completely complement the elegance of this space, so Del Reanne put her head in the clouds and started dreaming up solutions. These ceiling clouds were handmade and work to soften the overall space without crowding the overhead area. Plus, they really support the acoustics, which is key in an open environment like this.

The wood clouds add variety to this overhead idea.

CUSTOM TOUCH #4: Live Plant Wall
Resource: Cactus and Tropicals

This one has us green with envy. Every space should have a live plant wall. After all, it’s both beautiful and environmentally friendly, making it a lovely touch for employees.

OTHER CUSTOM WORK

Some of the focal points found in this memorable space were outsourced from as far away as Italy. Take a look!

SMART DESIGN

A long, lean area can start to feel like a bowling alley if you aren’t careful. Knowing this, Del Reanne was strategic with her flooring. By opting for two tones and a curved, diagonally oriented design, it creates the allusion of a much wider space and sends that bowling alley vibe to the gutter.

LED lighting is used throughout. Again, this supports the Kevin Murphy desire to be sustainable, as it’s the most energy efficient choice. It’s also beautiful and really brightens the space, providing the perfect amount of light for the exact task required. 

With any design project, it’s smart to first identify your strengths already in place. In this case, the huge windows bring in the natural light as well as the views. There's no reason to clutter with art on the walls when Mother Nature is already putting on such a show.

Of course, a few key art pieces are never bad things.

This is more than just an office building. It’s also a place to really understand the Kevin Murphy brand and products. In fact, they have a salon area built in where employees can learn and trainers can demonstrate the unique, high-end hair care offering.

BEFORE AND AFTER

To really understand the magic of this transformation, we’ll leave you with a few more of the before shots. What a difference!

What a difference a year makes! 

Ready to elevate your business space or apply some of these same looks to your home? Reach out to our team at The Black Goose Design today. You can also continue to fill your inspo bucket by taking a second look at the first half of this Kevin Murphy reveal here. Enjoy! 

No, this isn’t the Australian coastline, though we totally see how you got that impression. Believe it or not, this serene scene is actually located in Holladay, Utah! It’s the brilliant new North American home of Kevin Murphy, a high-end international haircare brand that originated in Australia.

So, how does a relatively generic office space go from this…

To this!?

In this case, it was the perfect combination of company core values + handcrafted custom work! Of course, having Del Reanne Lucas Wilson, a senior designer here at The Black Goose Design, leading the project also helped. She has years of commercial work experience!

“I wish I could just move into this space,” Del Reanne laughed. “We started working on this project last September. After that much time together, working with a team you love on a project you care about, it’s always hard to reach the end.”

Who could blame Del Reanne for feeling this way. There is much to adore about this design. Fortunately, there are also beautiful takeaways that you can apply to your own surroundings, whether for your home or office. Let’s take a good look around in this two-part reveal of the outstanding Kevin Murphy offices!

COMPANY CORE VALUES

The Kevin Murphy brand is built around equal appreciation for the environment and high-quality, high-performing haircare products. With this, the company’s core values are fashion, performance, and environment. But how does one take a position and turn it into a visual representation? Simply put, they work with a designer.

“That’s my job,” Del Reanne said. “And I love it. It’s all about bringing vision to life. Designing for a company, this includes capturing what a brand stands for and really showcasing that identity in all of the design elements." 

FASHION

One look at this contemporary space, and it’s easy to see Kevin Murphy is a stylish and sophisticated company.

“Like the Kevin Murphy brand, the design of this space is elegant,” Del Reanne noted. “It was important that the building’s backdrop complemented that fashion-forward position.”

PERFORMANCE

Just like Kevin Murphy products, their business space is high performing.

“This is a company that believes in being very open and transparent,” Del Reanne said. “Their office reflects that. The workstations are together and the executive offices have all-glass walls. It comes together to create a friendly and inviting environment that aligns seamlessly with their approach to doing business.”

ENVIRONMENT

Environment is everything, and we don’t just mean this internal oasis. At Kevin Murphy, eco awareness is top of mind.

“The natural elements represent the company’s love of our earth while also allowing the colorful products to shine,” Del Reanne shared. “More than anything, these details create a wonderful environment for the employees. The live plant wall is more than just a beautiful statement, it reduces toxins in the atmosphere and also brings the outside splendor right inside.”

Raise your hand if you now want a plant wall in every room. What a cool concept! Live plants, on a wall or not, are more than just a pretty detail. They do much to improve the air you breathe. It’s why nearly every plant in this space is alive and working hard to support the Kevin Murphy team.

“It’s made up of 3,000 individual wood blocks that were each hand cut, sanded, and stained,” Del Reanne said with a smile. “This proves natural doesn’t have to mean boring. It’s organic and beautiful and, in this case, a great way to breathe new life into an old resource.” 

Wow! Shout out if “wood block wall” is now being added to that wish list as well. What a clever statement and way to upcycle!  

A LEASING LESSON

Creating this kind of retreat within the confines of a leased space seems an impossibility… unless you’re a trained designer who knows the ins and outs of the “tenant improvements” process. Of course, Del Reanne will tell you it’s also about the location you choose and the importance of doing your homework before signing a lease. In this case, the Vibe Building in Holladay, Utah, ended up being a dream place to be.

“Working with Nyla and the Vibe Inc. team was an absolute pleasure,” Del Reanne said. “They not only allowed the kind of detail work we needed to happen, but they also encouraged and welcomed it. It was collaborative and fun!”

In our next part of this two-part reveal, we’ll share more before/after shots that really emphasize how far a leased location can come with the right space and team in place. You don’t want to miss it. 

CUSTOM WORK 

Another tip Del Reanne lives by is the importance of customization. Custom is key, especially when starting with a very basic, boxy space. The Kevin Murphy office is filled with floor-to-ceiling details, and most of them were created just for this project. In essence, designers are like magicians, with many tricks up their talented sleeves. However, unlike magicians, Del Reanne is going to reveal her secrets. That’s right, join us next time when she shares not one but MANY of the local artisans and skilled craftspeople she worked with to make each original detail. Set a reminder in your phone. It’s a list you won’t want to miss and a close-up look at ideas you won’t soon forget. We’ll see you back here on July 19 for part two of this inspiring Kevin Murphy reveal!  

SPECIAL THANKS

Del Reanne and The Black Goose Design would like to thank Lisa Marx, the President of North America, Tyler Doveton, Global CFO, and the rest of the Kevin Murphy team for making this project possible. Collaborating with you has been an extreme pleasure.

We'd also like to recognize our talented photographer, Lindsay Salazar, who photographed this space. Great work, Lindsay!  

In our previous post, we shared one of our latest home remodel projects. Denise Johnson, one of our talented team members here at The Black Goose Design, helped the homeowner weave color into every room of this vibrant home. But they didn’t use just any colors. Every shade was used intentionally, all in an effort to create a Feng Shui finish.

Previously, we shared how reds and pinks were used in the main living areas, adding energy and love, while blues were placed in the entryway, creating a calming welcome.

Now, let’s see what work was done in the more private areas of the home with a look at the bed and bath. Plus, we’ll explore earth accents and why they’re a natural finishing touch.

BEDROOM: YELLOW

Unwind after a long day surrounded by soft yellow. This relaxing color evokes calm.

PRO TIP: Doors are an awesome place to add some color and paint. The mirrors on this door also give the appearance of added square footage. 

You’ll notice metals also making an appearance in this room. Gold complements the yellow, so it looks amazing, but it’s also said to increase clarity, which is a nice emotional balance to yellow's soothing ways.

PRO TIP: Keep the foundation neutral. A simple way to work color into your space without overwhelming the area or creating a clash is to begin with a neutral foundation. The white walls in this home offer the perfect backsplash and allow the colorful accessories and furniture to come shining through. Find our favorite whites for 2023 here. 

BATHROOM: MULTI COLOR

This bathroom is the best of all worlds. By working in a rainbow of color, it connects all areas of the home in one happy way. While “rainbow” isn’t technically a part of the Feng Shui family, it never hurts to add some extra vibrancy.

EARTHY ACCESSORIES

Complement any area of the home/color using earth-inspired extras. Wood creates more harmony and energy indoors.

Whether real or artificial, plants sprinkle in vitality.

FENG SHUI TAKEAWAY

At the end of the day, the way color speaks to you is the most important aspect to keep in mind when designing your space. Feng Shui isn’t a hard and fast rule, and there is certainly no singular approach. It is simply meant as a guide to help bring about added harmony in the home. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to bring in some color, which we fully support. Want to learn more about this energetic approach to design? Stop by The Black Goose Design today!  

Using specific tones to SET specific tones is behind the design of this beautiful home. Following Feng Shui guidance, color has been intentionally placed throughout the residence.

Denise Johnson, a senior designer here at The Black Goose Design, worked closely with the homeowner to create a space of intention through strategically placed color. Join us and learn how to choose your perfect feng shui hues.

“I’ve been designing for decades, but this is my first time mapping out a home in the feng shui way,” Denise said. “I think it’s great! The flow and energy in a home are important”

FENG SHUI COLOR CODE

The Feng Shui philosophy breaks colors up into five groups.

1. Fire Colors: Here’s where you’ll find reds, purples, oranges, and bright pinks.
2. Earth Colors: Naturally, this is an assortment of yellows, browns, beiges, and soft oranges.
3. Metal Colors: This metallic mixture includes white, gold, silver, copper, and pastels.
4. Water Colors: Dive into this blend of black, indigo, and dark blues.
5. Wood Colors: You’d think this would be browns, but it’s actually colors found IN the woods, meaning greens!

LIVING ROOM & KITCHEN: PINK & RED + SPLASHES OF GREEN

These spaces combine fire and wood to create an energized spot for entertaining and being together with loved ones. Plus, pink is the color of romantic relationships, and red represents passion, so adding these colors also ups that loving feeling!

PRO TIP: You don’t have to paint your walls or even introduce all new furniture to create a Feng Shui feel. Color accessories are an easy place to start weaving in specific shades.

Avoid overheating the kitchen by adding muted reds and pinks to the room. The awning above the window offers that happy medium.

PRO TIP: An area rug is an awesome way to work in color. Place one beneath the dining table to anchor the area.

In the living area, a common fixture that can interrupt the Feng Shui feel is the television. It’s a large black hole that isn’t exactly cute. Fortunately, Denise has your solution. 

“A picture TV is an easy way to turn your dark TV into a beautiful portrait, adding cohesion to your space.”

PRO TIP: Take your TV from a black box to a work of feng shui-inspired art using YouTube. Simply search “TV art” and discover amazing options that are designed to stay on for hours.

No need to reach for the paint. Accent pillows are an effortless way to paint the town red.  

Of course, adding some earth green is a gorgeous and grounding complement. 

ENTRY: BLUES

Choose blues for the entry of your home. Shades of gray and lighter blue come together to make a calm, relaxing effect. What better way to end a busy day away from the house than to be greeted with a calming welcome.

Since striking shades of blue are on trend, you should have no trouble creating a cool welcome. Find this classic entry table and more at The Black Goose Design.

On a smaller scale, blue accessories are always a win.

FENG SHUI TAKEAWAY

Seek balance. No one color dominates this happy home. It’s a well-balanced blend of shades. Taking a Feng Shui approach doesn’t have to mean going overboard with color. In fact, we suggest easing in and finding your sweet spot. After all, it’s far easier to add than to have to take away.

Join us next time as we continue this colorful tour. You might be surprised by the bedroom color choice, and you’re sure to feel inspired by the bathroom brilliance.

With four children, including three teenage boys, a welcoming place for the family and friends to gather was the driving force behind this inviting home update. We shared the main living areas in our previous post. Let’s finish up this tour with the fun that awaits on the lower level!

All images in this post provided by Lindsay Salazar Photography.

But, first, we have one main-level room left to reveal – the home office!

Isn’t this dark blue built-in incredible? As with the other areas of the home, it pulls in that soothing shade, giving the shelving a professional polish!

To really understand what this pop of color does, here's what the room looked like before. 

Okay, let’s head downstairs. Wait! Speaking of stairs… Check out the stairway update! By adding carpet, it softens the space and absorbs the excess sound, which is a winning combination. While hardwood stairs are beautiful, they don’t always feel as cozy. This runner solution maintains the beauty of the wood while upping the warmth.

To see a side-by-side, here’s how the stairway looked before.

Now that we’ve made our way down this cushioned flight of stairs, we find ourselves in a gamer’s dream. With triplets, three screens were a must. Now the kids can sit together and play instead of spreading out.

Here’s a before shot of this same space. What a difference!

The theater area also got a major upgrade, with the new seating and other theatrical touches!

The before on this shows the drastic change that happened here. Very cool!

Of course, it isn’t all fun and games. This family also focuses on fitness, so a home gym was a priority. Oh, who are we kidding, this, too, is FUN! Especially with a room like this to break a sweat in.

And because we love a good before/after, here’s how the area looked before the redesign.

Finally, a touch we love about this family-focused dwelling is the way the walls are lined with loving photos. Whether they’re professional shots or snapshots, the end result is the same – photos make a house feel like a home.

Monica Woodland, an interior designer here at The Black Goose Design, did an amazing job collaborating with this fab family. The outcome will leave them with a space to make so many memories and simply enjoy being together. Thanks again to these residents for allowing our team to be a part of such a heartfelt project!

Don’t miss the first half of this inspiring tour!

More than two years ago, Monica Woodland, an interior designer here at The Black Goose Design, stepped in to help a local Utah family with the finish work in their relatively new home. After having lived in the new build for two years, the family was ready to work on updates to the cabinetry and flooring, the beams and columns, the paint and wallpaper, and other finishing details. Today, we’re delighted to sit down with Monica and share the first half of this inspiring two-part reveal!

All images in this post provided by Lindsay Salazar Photography.

“When I first met my clients, they had only been living in their newly built home for two years,” Monica recalled. “They had a few goals with the project. The first goal being to make their spaces more welcoming and homier as they entertained family and friends. Having four children, including a set of triplet boys, they constantly have friends in their home and they wanted more room to welcome any all who happen along. They also wanted to beautify and complete several spaces. With these goals, we got to work.”

ENTRY EXPERTISE

Upon entering this home, you’re greeted by a statement piece, proving that every area of a home has something valuable to add.

“I always strive to include a statement piece in the entry way of a home,” Monica said. “If someone only comes to the front door, what kind of message is your entryway conveying? Is it representing the overall look and feel of your home in the way you want it to? If your entry could use a refresh, consider a large area rug, a place to sit, and a spot to remove a coat.”

GREAT EXPECTATIONS

Once through the beautiful entry, the great room makes everyone feel right at home with its ample seating and overall welcoming ambiance.

“We wanted to increase the seating so everyone would have a place to relax,” Monica noted. “We used two full-sized sofas, two swivel chairs, and two poof ottomans, which are not only darling but also very comfortable as seats.”

Overhead, the lighting was updated and ceiling beams were added. Both elements work together beautifully to warm up the space.

“For a custom touch, we added the beams,” Monica said. “This brought the floor color up and added warmth.”

Here's a before shot of this space. Love the transformation!

ACCESSORIZING ADVICE

When thinking about finishing touches, always think about items that will reflect those living in the home.

“We completed the look of the room by adding custom drapery and accessories that really displayed the love this family has for each other, their horses, and the great outdoors,” Monica mentioned.

BOOK SMARTS

When adding books to shelves, pull some of the largest ones out and use them as statement items with other display pieces. Simply place them horizontally to create the base of a display stack.

For books lined up on the shelf, we often suggest removing the book jackets, as they can quickly get tattered and are often hiding a pretty book cover beneath. Removing the outer jackets creates a more polished feel.

ADDING TO EXISTING

Because this home is nearly brand new, much of the work focused on enhancing existing elements. Take the rich blue on the cabinetry in the kitchen. It was already in place and really created a theme to work with throughout the home’s otherwise neutral foundation.

“I took hues of that blue and worked them into other spaces,” Monica said. “Creating this kind of cohesive connection makes the home feel larger and creates natural flow. If you want to give this design concept a try, take a pillow from a coordinated grouping of pillows located in one room and pull it into another room. The connection created will work to create the illusion of added square footage by mentally expanding the overall space.”

A PLACE TO GATHER

The kitchen in any home is often filled with much love, so Monica and the homeowners knew they wanted to warm up that area.

“The curtains framing the dining space make it feel inviting and cozy, which is just what we wanted for this central gathering spot,” Monica shared. “We also selected a custom table and chairs that could expand during the holidays to accommodate extra friends and family.” 

Here's another shot of how this room looked before. The textures added definitely warm things up! 

MORE IN STORE

We can’t wait to share part two of this home reveal with you in our next post this month. Until then, you can contact our team at The Black Goose Design for more information on any of the ideas shared here. We love when a finished project can help inspire something you’ve been working on. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.

A special thanks to these homeowners for including us in this memorable project. We’ve loved working with you and can’t get enough of the outcome. Your home is stunning! 

If you’ve followed The Black Goose Design for a substantial amount of time, you know our building has been remodeled a time or two since we opened in 1985. This leads us to our first design tip…

TIP: Don’t be afraid to see your structure and try new ideas. For ideas and directions on how to safely add or remove walls, where a structure update could help, and more, we suggest working with a designer and/or a contractor. 

We’re currently working with GV Construction & Remodel Specialist to add a wall, new flooring, and drop the ceilings.

Why the remodel? We want The Black Goose Design building to feel open and inspiring from the moment you walk in. By moving the showroom focus to the front of the building, you’ll be greeted with design happiness.

Speaking of design happiness, we also want the brilliant talent working here to be surrounded by beauty. By moving our Design Center to the southeast corner of the building, we’re able to create a more functioning space for them to work and feel inspired.

OUR HISTORY (and a special memorium)

Our beautiful building was built in the early 1900s. It’s a piece of Utah history we take great pride in preserving. The building was purchased by our founder, Nancy Long, in 1984. We’d be remiss if we didn’t pause here to show our respects to and appreciation for Nancy. You see, she passed away a few weeks ago after a difficult battle with muscular dystrophy. You can read more about her incredible life story here. Rest peacefully, dear Nancy.

OUR CHALLENGE

Residing in an old building is a unique and wonderful treat that comes with unique and not-always-wonderful responsibility. If you’ve ever tried to remodel an older home, you know the interior walls and ceilings were typically built using lath and plaster, which can make hanging art and light fixtures difficult. Also, sadly, the flooring was showing its age.

TIP: Know the history and age of your structure before diving into a remodel. If possible, obtain blueprints. As mentioned, working with a designer and trained remodelers can make this entire process easier and safer, as they know what to look for and questions to ask to ensure the process is a safe one.

OUR SOLUTIONS

TIP: Don’t be afraid to build over existing structures. Professionals know how to safely and effectively add new elements, such as floors, and when you can do so without compromising room height.

New Walls

Reinforced Walls

TIP: Faux wall finishes can introduce fresh textures while also giving older walls some new structure from which to hang pieces. I think all of this could go.

Dropped Ceilings

Pardon Our Dust

This is no small project. We anticipate completion sometime in the spring of 2023. In the meantime, we are open. Call today to get the latest on connecting with a designer and to learn more about GV Construction & Remodeling.

In loving memory of Nancy Long, our founder at The Black Goose Design.
1940-2022

The shop is Sweet Bath Co, but the name should actually be SWEETEST Bath Co, as Melissa and Alexa, the business owners, have put their hearts into creating a company that supports working moms. 

“I was a new mom and my daughter hated the bath, so we created these really fun bath bombs,” Alexa recalled. “We thought, if we can take one stressor out of the bedtime routine… let’s do it!” 

And do it, they did. Sweet Bath Co has been in business for two and a half years now, but they only opened the doors of their first brick-and-mortar store at Traverse Mountain in March of this year. Del Reanne Lucas Wilson, a senior designer at The Black Goose Design, helped make that happen.

“We met with Del Reanne in October of 2021 and started the planning process,” Melissa said. I knew what I wanted for our space and she definitely helped bring that vision to life!”

“Between my initial conversations with Melissa and their company their logo, I could see what they wanted … what they needed, “Del Reanne added. “We saw eye to eye from the beginning, which was really fun.”

From that instant connection and shared vision came this gorgeous outcome.

“I find the success of any project is based on the synergy of the client and the designer. When you come together and feed off each other and love a project together, you always have a much happier end result. That was certainly the case here,” Del Reanne added.

DESIGNING A COMMERCIAL SPACE

While certain design principals ring true whether you’re designing a residential space or a commercial one, there are aspects unique to commercial to consider.

1. MORE EYES ON THE PRIZE

“I love designing commercial spaces,” Del Reanne said. “More people get to see and experience your work, so creating a space the public really enjoys and watching people over and over and over come in and react is very creatively fulfilling.”

2. FIRST IMPRESSIONS ARE EVERYTHING

Del Reanne comes from a rich background in commercial design and knows you only have mere minutes to capture your audience and set your desired tone.

“When designing a commercial space like this, you have to give the audience an experience as soon as the step through the door,” Del Reanne explained. “You only have three seconds to make your first impression. It was our goal at Sweet Bath Co to create a space that feels fun, fresh, lovely and a bit elegant.”

“Stores often feel full and crowded,” Melissa added. “We knew we wanted a more open feeling and a very relaxing and welcoming environment. Light woods and lots of white… We wanted the shop to feel bright and happy, but also a bit fancy.”

3. EXPECT PERAMETERS

When designing a leased space, you can sometimes be met with elements to work around. In this space, one such element was the flooring. It would have taken the project well beyond the budget to replace it, so it was up to the team to work with it and make it all come together seamlessly.

“Unless the flooring in a space is spectacular, you don’t want to make it memorable,” Del Reanne said. “Where this warm, orange-toned floor was already in place, it was my job to work with it and not make it look like a mistake. We wanted to draw the eye up and create the focus someplace completely different. Our solutions for doing that ended up being some of my favorite features in the store. The chandeliers are spectacular! They make the biggest pop! And the crazy gold metallic flowers on the walls really add a ‘wow’ to the entire space!”

4. CONSIDER CUSTOMS

A commercial space has unique needs, which can mean unique fixtures and pieces. The Black Goose Design can help with that!

“A lot of people don’t realize we can create custom casework,” Del Reanne noted. “It’s one of the many services we offer. Here, we designed the gorgeous front counter specifically for this business, and I adore it!”  

5. DESIGN WITHIN DESIGN

Retail often calls for unique areas and experiences within the larger space. That was the case at Sweet Bath Co.

“We needed to create sections to support the various product types,” Del Reanne explained. “A kids section… A bath and shower section... A seasonal section… A gift section… The trick is making each section feel unique but also cohesive and on brand as a whole.”

6. DESIGN TO ENHANCE INVENTORY

We saved the best for last. In a retail space, the design should ALWAYS complement the product on display, not over overpower it.

“Creating a beautiful space is important, but you want to equally highlight the product,” Del Reanne explained. “You don’t want either one to get lost. Especially when that product is as beautiful as this. It’s unlike anything I’ve seen. I knew we needed a backdrop that would showcase that kind of beauty and uniqueness.”

THE SWEET OUTCOME

It’s easy to see the outcome of this collaboration does the brilliant products at The Sweet Bath Co justice. The shop, like the specialty bath products within, is relaxing. As you walk in, you’re not only greeted by the best smells imaginable but also a truly serene scene.  

ON A MOM CALM MISSION

Of course, the calm sweet Sweet Bath Co provides extends well beyond their Traverse Mountain retail shop or even a soak using their high-quality bath products. For them, it’s about adding much-needed mom calm. It’s why they’ve created a business owned and run by women that focuses on supporting women. From their design and fulfillment center to their storefont, Sweet Bath Co employs nearly 25 females, most of whom are busy mothers. For them, that’s the ultimate success story and the foundation of their happy brand.   

“I seriously can’t wait to get to work every day,” Melissa remarked. “We take dancing breaks and get to chat with friends all day. It is so much fun! We couldn’t ask for a better group of employees or a better way to recharge and bring more balance to all areas of our lives.”

Del Reanne worked primarily with Melissa on this project and felt an instant connection to her and the brand’s supportive mission.

“Melissa and I had the same excitement and vision, which I found very motivating. I mean, my desire to please is always huge, but when you add that kind of mutual excitement, it catapults it. I would do anything for Melissa. She’s darling and delightful. She’s so creative. Plus, she’s a really hard-working mom supporting other hard-working moms. That really resonates with me on a personal level.”

Wanting a solution to end-of-day bath time chaos, Sweet Bath Co ultimately created something even bigger. Even better. An inviting place to relax and feel supported. A memorable place to not only shop but to immerse yourself in beauty. Experience it all for yourself and stop by this serene storefront at Traverse Mountain soon.

Not in Utah? Don’t you worry. You can also shop their fabulous assortment of specialty products online. 

Welcome back to the brilliant Bell Canyon Hom in Sandy, Utah, one of the latest projects to reach completion for our team at The Black Goose Design.

If you’ll recall from Part 1 of this two-part reveal, this home was the ultimate in collaboration, involving a previous home owner who started the build, our sister company, GV Construction, who completed the build and breathed modern design into the project, and design work by more than one senior designer on our team at The Black Goose Design! Wow! That’s a bunch of talent and vision behind one locale. No wonder the outcome is this beautiful!

Picking up where we left off, we have more favorite features to share, as well as design takeaways for you to try in your home today. Let’s go!

NOTE: All imagse taken by Lindsay Salazar Photography unless otherwise noted. 

BELL CANYON FAVORITE FEATURES 

FAV FEATURE: The Front DOOR

For a home this substantial, an average front door simply wouldn’t do. It’s hard not to be smitten by this grand entrance!

“As you walk up to the home, the front door immediately grabs your attention,” Joe Long, co-owner of GV Construction and The Black Goose Design, said. “Everybody who sees it is like ‘whoa!’ It’s a huge pivot door, measuring 10’ x 7’. It’s incredible!”

FAV FEATURE: The Cantllever Decks

These statement areas are extensions of the interior living space.

“Another favorite aspect of this home are the cantilever decks. The doors are bifold collapsible, creating a seamless extension from the interior to the exterior of the home,” Joe remarked. “The way these decks extemd out, with the nearby Bell Canyon Creek running through the yard, it brings that beautiful outdoor sound and ambiance inside as soon as you open the doors.”

image credit: Coldwell Banker Homes

DESIGN IDEAS TO TRY

Like the dimensional design of art work, a design idea shared in our previous post, let’s layer on ideas to apply to your home.

IDEA TO TRY: RULE OF THIRDS(ish)

The Rule of Thirds design principle relates to the strategic placement of three focal items. Did you know you can group a bunch of items together to equate to a single stop in your Thirds trifecta?

Even though this bookshelf holds multiple accent pieces, it still acts as a single focal point when grouped with the two adjacent art pieces. As a whole, the trio creates a well-balanced occupant for this space. Look for a decorative shelf in your home and see if it might be enhanced with the addition of two counterparts. You could try art, as we have or opt for large plants, an ottoman, or any other substantial presence. 

Of course, a pair of shelves is equally as striking!

IDEA TO TRY: ADD OTTOMANS

Ottomans are popping up in homes everywhere right now! With as versatile and CUTE as these smaller furniture pieces are, it’s easy to see the BIG appeal Here are just a few of the awesome ottoman benefits:

• Being smaller, they’re easy to tuck under thin side or entry tables. This both fills the space nicely and keeps extra seating close at hand.
• They’re light weight, making them easy for even kids to grab, should they need to pull up another chair.
• They stand alone. Float a pair under a fireplace, add them as seats at the heads of the dining table, or place one next to a soaker tub. Ottomans are so attractive that you certainly don’t have to tuck them away.
• They’re more than just added seating and foot rests. Ottomans are also excellent options when you’re in need of a side table, a game table, or another convenient surface.

TIMELINE TIP TO REMEMBER

When working on a remodel or new build, don’t wait for walls and floors before ordering tables and drawers. Order furniture and high-end appliances as soon as possible. Our designers can work from floorplans and blueprints to help you select properly fitting pieces. If you’re a visual person, we can even create 3D renderings to help you see how those pieces will look in the finished space, long before a single wall gets framed. Why? Because lead times are currently lengthy and you don’t want to be stuck waiting when your project is done.

“Right now, custom upholstery orders and high-end appliances are taking from nine months to a year to be delivered,” Denise Johnson, one of the senior designers on this project, shared. “Don’t wait for your home project to be done to start placing your orders. The last thing you want to do is get moved in and then have to wait a long time for the furniture. If you’re sticking to a budget and furnishing areas in stages, prioritize key areas like the great room, primary bedroom, and dining room. You can then focus on the other areas as time and finances allow.”

ONE MORE LOOK

Before we conclude this two-part tour of the stunning Bell Canyon Home, we'll leave you with a few final looks at the home.  

REQUEST REMODEL ASSISTANCE

Need help on a remodel project? Call The Black Goose Design today to get connected with the pros at GV Construction. 

Not all projects we take on at The Black Goose Design are new builds and remodels. We like to call this gorgeous Bell Canyon home an inherited project. Welcome to Part 1 of this two-part home reveal!

Lindsay Salazar Photo

COLLABORATION = COMPLETION

The home started its life in the loving hands of its previous owner more than a decade ago. In that time, construction got underway, but life also happened and the build was never completed. Enter GV Construction Renovation Specialists. Like Gardner Village and its flagship stores, CF Home Furniture & Design, Down to Earth, and Layers Bedding, GV Construction is one of our sister companies, owned by the talented sister/brother team of Angie Gerdes and Joe Long. 

“I focused on building and construction,” Joe said. “As my partner and equal, Angie puts her expertise to work overseeing the furnishings and décor. It was definitely a tag-team effort.” 

As you can see from these before and after shots, the Bell Canyon Home underwent quite the transformation under GV Construction.

BEFORE 

AFTER

Lindsay Salazar Photo

BEFORE

AFTER

Lindsay Salazar Photo

BEFORE

AFTER

 Lindsay Salazar Photo

The collaboration continued at The Black Goose Design, where more than one senior designer on our team worked with Angie on the interior details.

Lindsay Salazar Photo

“I loved working on the finishing touches with the furniture and accessories,” said Denise Johnson, senior designer. ”It’s fun to see the project come to life at this phase.” 

FAVORITE FEATURE

Selecting a favorite feature on a home like this is a tall order, but here are just a few of the many standouts:

FAV FEATURE: Surroundings that Inspire

This Bell Canyon home is located below Snowbird in the impressive Little Cottonwood Canyon. With such a backdrop and the amazing 360-degree views, it’s no surprise that the home took on a mountain modern design scheme.

Lindsay Salazar Photo

“This home’s location really does check all the boxes,” Denise said. “Location: check! View: check! Private/secluded: check! It’s like the windows are works of art on the walls. Each window offers another amazing view, from the city view to the mountainside to the shrub oak in the yard, there is so much to take in.”

 Lindsay Salazar Photo

“As soon as I visited the property and saw the Bell Canyon Stream running through the property, I immediately had ideas and visions for working the home’s impressive surroundings into the design,” Joe added.

That majestic Utah scenery certainly inspired the home’s interior. From the stone work throughout the home, including the unique granite backdrop in the kitchen, to the striking wood detail throughout, it’s easy to see how Utah’s backdrop inspires the details.

Lindsay Salazar Photos

DESIGN IDEA TO TRY

This home leaves us with many inspiring takeaways. Here is one of our favorite tricks to try in your home today!

EXPAND YOUR ART

Add dimension to your art pieces by layering a few accessories in front.

Lindsay Salazar Photos

On Part 2 of this massive home reveal, scheduled for June 22, 2022, we’ll share more of our favorite features and design ideas to try, plus a look at some of the top 2022 design trends. We can’t wait to see you then. In the meantime…

HOME FOR SALE

Good news! This home, completely furnished, can be yours! It went on the market last week. See the listing here for more information and even more pics! 

REQUEST REMODEL ASSISTANCE

Need help on a remodel project? Call The Black Goose Design today to get connected with the pros at GV Construction. 

Welcome back, friends! We can’t wait to share part two of this gorgeous Marx/Herr home reveal. But first, you can take a second look at part one of this home here. Not going back for seconds would be a mistake. It’s just THAT good!

photos by Lindsay Salazar

Filled with florals, spring feels like the perfect time for our show & tell of this brilliant space. You’ll find its fresh femininity takes a turn toward the linear on the lower level of the home.

To bridge the gap between the softer stylings upstairs and the richness downstairs, The Black Goose Design senior designer, Del Reanne Wilson Lucas, worked with the home owners to create a seamless transition area outside of the more masculine media room.

This open, airy space is welcoming and provides plenty of room for family and friends to gather.

To create the design transition. Softer patterns were strategically placed with more geometrics and heavier textures. By setting the tone in this way, the shift to a more masculine area doesn’t feel at all jarring or out of place.

This rug was a perfect piece for this area of the home. The blush/blue combo pulls influence from the upper and lower levels.

TIP: Your home doesn’t have to be one style exclusively. Well… on second thought, it does — YOUR style. To create that, don’t hesitate to blend looks. Our team at The Black Goose Design can help you create smooth transitions and a harmonious look overall!

A WARM & WELCOMING PLACE 

No wonder this space is a family favorite. The lush charcoal corduroy sectional is as comfortable as it is stunning. It’s topped with a sweet drizzle of caramel in the form of leather chairs and accent pillows. Together, it creates a warm space to relax.

We’d like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the Marx/Herr family for inviting The Black Goose Design to be a part of this memorable project. The end result is nothing short of spectacular!

Feeling inspired? Good news! Many of the fixtures, fabrics, and finishes seen in the Marx/Herr home are available now at The Black Goose Design. Stop in today to get your favorites! 

Welcome to the Marx/Herr residence, one of our latest design projects in south Salt Lake County. We’re delighted to unveil this show-stopper home with you and the many inspirational takeaways you can apply to your own design work.

Home: Marx/Herr Residence

The Black Goose Design Team Member: Del Reanne Lucas Wilson

Photography: Lindsay Salazar

Project Timeframe: 20 months

Home Style: …It’s complicated

HOME STYLE

Why complicated? Well, the home was purchased as a nearly-finished new build, so the style was already in place — a contemporary industrial design. While the home owners were quite taken with the amount of space in the home and the fabulous neighborhood, they weren’t seeking an industrial look. Enter Del Reanne. It’s at times like this that having a trained professional at your side can make all the difference. Del Reanne saw the challenge in transforming the space but certainly didn’t fear it. She knew that with the right furniture and pieces in place, the homeowners’ true style would come shining through.

And just what is that style? The female home owner, with complete support from her fiancé, knew she wanted to infuse her personal preferences for the fun, feminine, light, and happy. You’ll see a French Country influence, but with a modern take, which complements the home’s foundation beautifully.

HOW TO BLEND STYLES

The key to making an established structural design bend to meet another style preference is often in selecting the right pieces. Where the home's industrial structure incorporated black, these gorgeous display pieces flanking the fireplace were the first big purchases, setting the tone for the design work to follow. The curve of the arch offers a softer, more feminine finish, and the shelves décor items work to further that feel.

BOLD BLOOMS

A fast track to femininity is florals! From wallpaper that wows and impressive artwork to floral displays and fabric choices, the bold blooms bring this home to life!

As far as transforming an established style was concerned, the bathrooms proved the biggest challenges. They had a very industrial look to them and yet it didn’t make sense to gut a brand new build. Flowers to the rescue! The ice blue florals with the gold and silver accents on this wallpaper were just what this powder room needed to take the edge off.

TAKEAWAY TIP: Statement pieces don’t have to be furniture. Key accessories can work just as well to capture the look and feel of a home. The huge ginger jar on the fireplace mantel is a lovely example.

FEMININE FABRIC

Another easy way to weave a particular feel throughout a home is in your fabric choices. The selection used on the draperies, decorative pillows, linens, etc. certainly strike a lighthearted note.

THE RESULT

This home is certainly not without its modern moments. For example, the use of black seamlessly ties the modern with the French flair. In theory, this could seem like an odd pairing, but this home proves otherwise. The harmonious blend creates a space that’s as comfortable and casual as it is elegant and fresh.

WOW!

While this entire home is a perfect 10.0, you’ll want to sit for these statement stops on our tour.

WALK-IN CLOSET

With spare rooms available and a home owner with a healthy respect for fashion and style, it only made sense to transform an entire spare bedroom into a closet!

Everything in this room was custom made, including this swoon-worthy shoe storage!

Of course, the light fixture takes an already-amazing space and adds even more brilliance!

TAKEAWAY TIP: Don’t limit your thinking when it comes to extra rooms. How many times do homeowners feel they have to have a dedicated guest room when, in reality, they rarely have company? If you have another way that you could use the room so much more, go for it! It’s your home and you should absolutely make the most of every square foot. 

OFFICE

Since this is the home to a happy couple, you will find more masculine influences as well. (Wait until you see the magical media room in our next post!) The one exception? The office! This beauty is a space created exclusively for the female homeowner who also happens to be a female entrepreneur who loves entertaining and welcoming business associates to her home. The spacious office perfectly captures this phenomenal woman and her impeccable style.

Many have said this is the most beautiful desk they’ve ever seen. They aren’t wrong.

The big and powerful yet soft and feminine floral artwork is no accident. It’s a beautiful reflection of the dedicated business professional occupying this office. 

TAKEAWAY TIP: Don’t just choose something pretty to hang on the wall. Think about the message it conveys and what message you might want conveyed in the space.

GUEST RETREATS

Since the homeowners enjoy having house guests, much thought and loving detail went into each of the spare bedrooms. The best part is that no two guest rooms are alike. They each have their own personalities. Of course, they also complement the home as a whole, keeping up the continuity.

TAKEAWAY TIP: Just because it’s a guest room, doesn’t mean it can’t represent your style and interest. Guests will enjoy seeing your influence infused in their surroundings. No need to keep things generic or stale. 

SEE YOU SOON (on May 25 to be exact)

That’s it for joining us on this first portion of this magnificent Marx/Herr home tour. Join us on May 25 for a look at the rest of this inspiring original! 

BRING THIS LOOK HOME

See something (or many somethings) you love? Stop by or contact The Black Goose Design in Midvale, Utah to discuss how you can make this inspiring style your own.  

Is there an area of your home that triggers the "One of These Things is Not Like the Others" song from our old-school Sesame Street days? The basement is a common contender. This remodel of a 20+ year-old home's basement definitely completes the gorgeous look and feel of the rest of this Kaysville, Utah, home. See how we took this space out of the, ahem, limelight, and into the modern day with impressive before-and-after pics, design rendering ideas, comforting color schemes, and more! 

PROJECT: Kaysville Basement Remodel
DESIGNER: Sam Atkinson
PHOTOGRAPHER: Lindsay Salazar 

COLOR IS KEY

Or... in this case, a little less color. ;) Yes, a bright color can help lighten up a dark basement, but opting for a white or pops of color works to both lighten up a room AND keep it feeling calm and inviting. 

BEFORE 

AFTER

We love that these home owners aren't afraid of color. By adding gorgeous earth tones, the space feels intimate and relaxing while still neutral. 

TIP: Don't be afraid to use color as a neutral. Shades of green and blue often work in a neutral capacity and can add more warmth than traditionally thought of neutrals. 

IN A BASEMENT BIND

Remodeling a basement isn't always easy. As the base of the home, you frequently have load-bearing beams/walls, duct work, and other elements to consider. In this case, these three awkwardly placed pillars couldn't just come down, at least not without taking the rest of the house with them. So, Sam Atkinson, The Black Goose Design expert on this job set out to problem solve.

BEFORE

Consulting with the project's contractors, she found a solution that not only keeps the support in place but also opens up the room — a built-in media center. By adding two larger beams where the outside pillars were, they were able to safely remove the center pillar, leaving the ideal spot for this new focal point of the room.

 AFTER

Thanks to vital duct work, the ceiling above this space is lower. Placing the media center strategically under this lower area, adds to the built-in design and leaves more room for seating, including an extra large sectional, perfect for family!

TIP: Consult the pros. Basements frequently come with obstacles that can be dealt with, but it's best to work with trained contractors and designers to ensure you proceed with caution.

WHERE OLD MEETS NEW

Okay, so sometimes the word "old" is frowned upon, but it's very positive in this space. By "old," we simply mean things you already own. Existing. Loved. Yours! A key to making a new space feel like "home," whether it be a new build or a remodel, is in the pieces you already own. There's no need to start from scratch with decor. Blend some of the old with a bit of the new to create YOUR ideal surroundings. Adding new greenery to the homeowners' collection of pottery, for example, is an easy way to take the decor to the next level without starting over.

Even some of the furniture was already in the home. Isn't this bed stunning? It was already in the house and didn't even need a drop of paint. By pairing it with these modern surroundings, you get an amazing outcome! 

MODERN TRADITIONAL

This basement is a lovely example of modern traditional design. It brings together florals and other classics with bolder prints and clean lines. In this darling guest room, the bed frames and wallpaper are more modern, while the accent pillows and linens are more traditional.

SPACE ON THE MOVE

At one point, the playroom was closed off in this basement, which didn't support the owners' desire to have their entire family together. By knocking out that wall and eliminating the smaller room, the space gained a bunch more room for all to gather. Of course, the grandchildren still needed an area all their own. The solution? This stylish reading nook. 

With ample pull-out storage, including storage that pulls out from the bookshelf (so cool!), the beloved toys and favorite reads remain at the ready for the younger guests. The whimsical house wallpaper offers a youthful vibe but also blends seamlessly into the rest of the space.

TIP: Hidden storage is a great way to house toys and things that might not otherwise "fit" the look and feel of the area. Plus, it makes clean up a breeze! 

A FAMILY RETREAT

The home owners have 10 kids and many grands! They love spending time with their impressive family and wanted a retreat to welcome them. We'd say this breathtaking basement certainly fits the bill. The kitchenette, guest rooms, play space, and living area all create home-away-from-home happiness. The finishing touch... a bathroom remodel!

BEFORE

AFTER

Wow, what a difference! (Dibs on the mirror!) 

TAKEAWAY TIP

Sam was so sweet when asked what her takeaway tip is from this project. 

"I'm not trying to sound boastful or brag, but it really does help to work with a designer on a project of this scale. We know how to see potential in a space that might not be seen otherwise. We can create exact design plans before a single change is made. We're trained to work side by side with contractors so the homeowner doesn't have to be a go between. Most of all, we LOVE getting to know our clients. It's about more than just building a strong connection with them because we adore them; it's about knowing them to ensure the finished result is an accurate reflection of the amazing people they are!"

Not boastful at all, Sam. You're absolutely right! It does help to work with an interior designer for so many reasons. Plus, it's just more fun to tag team it. We have a team of trained experts at The Black Goose Design, ready to help you on your next project. Stop by or give us a call to discuss your ideas soon! 

In our last post, we took you inside the impressive South Jordan, Utah, home that proves modern design is quite inviting. From various natural elements and textures to an earthy color scheme and a focus on fabulous lighting, the home embodies warmth.

Today, we see another feature this home exudes — FUN! The lower level brings all the entertainment a person could want home. Not a bad thing in these pandemic times! Actually, not a bad thing at any time. This space is an entertainer’s dream and gives a family night at home all new possibility. Take a look!

LET’S GET DOWN TO BUSINESS

Before we make our way downstairs, we must pause to check out this COOL home office! Work from home? More like PLAY from home!  

No, that’s not the garage. It’s actually an extension of the homeowner’s office! Check out those custom, marbleized floors. Certainly not a bad view or backdrop for those Zoom calls!

All that hard work can work up an appetite. Good thing there’s a kitchenette for those midday (or late night) snack breaks!

GAME ON!

Yup, this home actually has its own sports bar. Game days just got a lot livelier!

NOW SEATING!

Forget sticky floors, sitting next to strangers, freezing temps, and overpriced concessions. With a home theater of this caliber, it’s like going out to the show but with all the comforts and intimacy of home.

Roll out the red carpet! The entry way adds to the theatrics with these amazing custom sliding doors.

PLAY DATE

Whether you want to hit the shooting range, put around the golf course, or toss a pigskin on the field, you’re headed in the right direction. Down this corridor is the entertainment wing of the home, which includes various sports simulators. FOUR!

WINE TIME

Vino aficionados, we advise you take a seat for this one. It takes the home wine cellar to new heights!

PLAY IT SAFE

An in-home safe is never a bad idea. Opt for a fireproof option and rest easier, knowing your important items have added protection.

LIVE IT UP

Of course, the lower level of this awesome abode isn’t all play. There are various living spaces that offer a comforting spot to visit and make all who visit feel at home.

EXIT ON THE LEFT

That concludes our tour of this imaginative, unique, captivating home. It’s been a project for The Black Goose Design for a year and a half, so this Reveal Day is always a bit bittersweet. Designer Denise Johnson has loved being a part of this family for this stretch of time and knows they’ve created a connection that will last. We now invite YOU to create your own connection as you create the home of YOUR dreams. Bringing your vision to life and helping you pinpoint what that vision is fills us with joy. Whether you’re building or simply updating, no task is too big or too small to capture our interests. Stop by or call today to get your next project underway.

ABOUT THIS POST

Nearly all furnishings and décor in this post are available through The Black Goose Design.

Pillows and throws provided by The Black Goose Design and Layers Bedding at Gardner Village.

Photos taken by Lindsay Salazar.

Home interior design was a collaboration between the talented homeowners and The Black Goose Design team member, Denise Johnson.