Just what is a Powderbird, anyway? No, it’s not some rare feathered species. It’s actually an unforgettable heli-skiing (helicopter skiing) experience offered right here in Utah. Skiers and snowboarders come from all over the world to be carried via helicopter to backcountry mountain peaks, where they’re then left to cruise down its slopes. Unfortunately, for as unusual and awesome as this experience is, it’s home-base facility didn’t have that same wow factor. Here’s a look at what the Powderbird lodge looked like before its remodel.


With its green, rubber flooring, the acoustical ceiling, and stark, white walls, the words “school cafeteria” come to mind. Nothing about the space suggested “once in a lifetime skiing experience.”


TIME FOR A REMODEL
The last time this space was updated was back in 1995. The Powderbird team wanted a fresh look — one that would accurately reflect the impressive experience they offer. Randi Smith, one of our expert designers at The Black Goose Design, was delighted to step in and help this bird soar into 2020 on a high note.

Jessika Long, who works for Powderbird and headed up this design project on their end, actually has a special connection to The Black Goose Design.
“I worked for The Black Goose Design for a year before taking on my role at Powderbird,” Jessika said. “So when this project came up, I was super excited to go back to design, which I love, and work with my talented friends again!”
Even with her design background, Jessika understood the importance of having a partner to work on this project with.
“It was nice to have a hand to hold,” Jessika said. “Having Randi on the project as a consultant reinforced the decisions I was making. With her, I knew it was all coming together and was going to look good, even when we were far from finished.”
A good design experience is always about collaboration. For as much as Jessika appreciated Randi’s help, Randi loved being a part of the Powderbird team with Jessika and the many others who were involved with the remodel.
“I loved working with Jessika and the team at GV Construction,” Randi said. “Jessika was my intern a few years ago and then a designer at The Black Goose Design. Some of our past projects include work together on the phase-one remodel of Archibald's Restaurant, designing for a 2018 Parade of Homes house, and the remodel of Jessika’s parents' home. The team at GV Construction and I have also done several commercial projects together. Previous experiences as a group is never a requirement when starting a project together, but it sure doesn’t hurt. Because we’ve worked together before, it was easy to pick up and begin working together to achieve a beautiful goal on this project.”

YOU ALWAYS HAVE OPTIONS
Whether you’re looking for someone to lean on completely or you simply want a sounding board to offer advice in a consultation or two, The Black Goose Design team is ready to support you and your project.
“When I couldn’t find the last few pieces I needed to complete our remodel, Randi gave great recommendations and feedback,” Jessika said. “She also had smart suggestions for the stone used on the fireplace and backsplash. She even helped me measure the entire space to make sure things would fit properly before purchasing anything. Having Randi available throughout this process was such an asset. Whenever I found myself stuck, I could count on her to provide the missing piece. And from a budget perspective, it was wonderful to be able to pay for design consults here and there as needed vs. hiring a full-time designer.”

QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP
At The Black Goose Design, we recognize the unique needs businesses have when it comes to furniture. Clients often want their pieces to have the comfort and sophistication of home but also be able to withstand business traffic. It’s why we carry top-grade manufacturers, known as much for their style as they are for their quality and craftsmanship.
“We have clients coming in and out with big, bulky equipment,” Jessika said. “We knew we needed furniture pieces that could take a good beating and still look good. We found several furniture options that would withstand such use at The Black Goose Design. We ended going with Wesley Hall Furniture. We chose fabric from Sunbrella, which holds its pigment very well… perfect for sitting in our really big windows, where it gets plenty of sun. The fabric also protects against water damage, which is important. Of course, for as durable as it all is, it’s equally gorgeous!”

Even if you don’t have a business to furnish, quality furniture that's made to last makes a difference. We carry pieces that stand up to children and grandchildren, house guests and renters, pets, and nearly any other challenge you might want to throw at it. The same is true for dining room pieces.

“At Powderbird, we serve our guests two meals a day,” Jessika added. “This means a lot of wear and tear on the dining furniture as well. I knew The Black Goose Design carried Hooker Furniture, which is really well known for its extremely high-quality wood pieces. With our guests eating in their ski boots, such durability was important to us, and we just love the sophisticated look these pieces add!”
“Jessika had a very clear vision of how she wanted the space to function when the remodel was complete,” Randi recalled. “She wanted high-end luxury, but also somewhere where you could stomp about covered in snow. And that’s just what we were able to achieve.”
CUSTOM MADE TO MATCH YOUR NEEDS
Whether you’re updating your home or business, The Black Goose Design will help you add your signature style to everything you do.

“It was really fun selecting the fabric and finishing touches,” Jessika recalled. “With so many options to choose from, we were able to select textiles that complement the cabinetry, backsplash, granite, etc. It really allows you to pick pieces that fit your surroundings!”
BUSINESS BENEFITS
Sometimes it takes a business to help a business. Commercial spaces present their own unique challenges and requirements. Our team is well versed in what those needs are and how we can best help you meet them to ensure a successful outcome.

“In designing this space, we had many regulations to follow,” Jessika recalled. “We had to meet specific ADA standards and codes.It’s a different realm of functionality than designing for a home. This is another reason I was glad to have a designer to collaborate with. Randi was a huge help in many different areas. She really does understand the importance of staying on schedule, working with contractors, and designing for a commercial space.”
AT LAST, A TRUE REFLECTION
“The views at Powderbird, which face down Little Cottonwood Canyon, are phenomenal,” Jessika added. “I love that we now have a facility that matches those views in its beauty. And everything functions so much better now.”
“Jessika and I walked the space early on in the process, discussing the layout and how the space should function,” Randi added. “Since it would be used for breakfast during the day and a second meal after the heli-skiing adventure concluded, we knew we needed to make the most of the seating availability while also leaving enough open space for clients to freely and comfortably move about. The solution we came up with is the live-edge seating along the west wall of windows, which ended up being my favorite thing about this remodel. It gives guests room to dine comfortably while also experiencing the unbelievable view of Little Cottonwood Canyon down to the Salt Lake Valley. Talk about a room with a view!”

THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING
When we asked Jessika what her employer thought of the remodel, she had this to say:
“They were thrilled! They said this update changes everything in the way we’re able to serve our guests. They’re so excited and pleased with the overall look. They love that we’ve created a space that our clients can really buy into and enjoy.”

GREAT DESIGN IMPROVES THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
Powderbird is certainly a unique business, but its needs aren’t all that unusual. Like any business, they want a space that reflects their brand and leaves their guests with favorable impressions. We can create that for you at The Black Goose Design, and the outcome will be one you can actually see reflected back to you in the way your customers feel when they’re with you.
“With helicopter skiing being so weather dependent, clouds, high wind speeds, or heavy snowfall can mean delays,” Jessika said. “People spend a lot of money to come to Powderbird, often flying hundreds of miles to be here. They look forward to the day so much, so it’s easy to understand how weather delays can cause stress. However, since remodeling our space, we’ve seen a noticeable change in our clients when they have to wait. Where people used to get anxious, they seem at ease and comfortable. Having an inviting sofa, big, comfortable chairs, and a large TV over a warm fireplace will do that. It all creates such a calming effect and helps eliminate guest anxiety. It just goes to show how a well-designed space really can make a difference in the business you do.”

AVAILABLE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Due to current Covid-19 concerns, The Black Goose Design is open for design services by appointment only. You can schedule an appointment via our website. Stay safe, dear friends!
Wednesday Jan 11 2023 by Stacey Beyer
It’s January, and we’re suddenly in the mood to sort, clean,and organize. There could be any number of explanations for this annual organization phenomenon, from the new influx of items in the home to returning things to their “everyday” appearance after months of holiday styling. Whatever the reason, we’re all for getting our stuff together on this month and have several sleek ideas, big and small, for many areas in your home.
BRING ON THE BASKETS
Let’s start small. Okay, as far as baskets go, these aren’t exactly petite, but they're on the smaller end of our storage solution line-up. Tuck these beauties in a corner for a storage solution that’s as decorative as it is functional.
Here are just a few fav ways to put the baskets in business:
INTRODUCING THE ENTRY/SOFA TABLE
Adding a new furniture item doesn’t have to mean overhauling your entire floorplan. Opt for something slender, like this sofa table, which adds storage space without taking up a bunch of room in the process.
Here are a few fav ways to include accent tables:
CALLING ALL CABINETS
Now we’re to our largest solution – cabinets. Whether you find yourself short on closet/cabinet space (don’t we all?) or you simply want a gorgeous new focal point for the home, these favorite cabinets are just the ticket.
Here are a few fav ways to use cabinets:
NOTE: Look for a cabinet with drawers for smaller or less eye-catching items, such as linens, cutlery, and other go-to items.
Yes, there’s something about flipping the calendar flipping that makes now a fine time to get organized. Stop by The Black Goose Design today to explore these and other options. If you find yourself stuck with a specific storage task, don’t hesitate to bring a few pics in and chat with one of our designers. They’ve never met a storage challenge they couldn’t master and would love to help you achieve your org goals this year!
Wednesday Dec 21 2022 by Stacey Beyer
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
TIP: Dropping ceilings, when height in a room allows, is a savvy way of hiding duct work and electrical elements and other unsightly elements that could be in view. It’s also a way to reinforce your home and allow for heavier chandeliers to be introduced. Consult a design professional for more on this process.
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.
Wednesday Dec 7 2022 by Stacey Beyer
What a year! From brilliant residential rennovation and new builds to unforgettable commercial space and an update to our own home base, our team at The Black Goose Design has been busy and loving every moment and completed project 2022 has had to offer. Here, in no particular order, is a look at a few of our favorites, along with design trends and market finds that continue to put smiles on our faces.
Psstttt... We're even sharing a first look at the updates recently made to the upper level of our showroom. You don't want to miss this transformation! Let's get to it!
Bell Canyon Home Renovation Project with GV Construction Renovation Specialists
Photos by: Lindsay Salazar Photography
Breathing new life into an existing home it can be both challenging and extremely rewarding. In this inherited project, we got a gorgeous foundation to build from and still can't get over the end result.
The natural light and views combined with the rich colors and interior elements come together in perfect harmony.
Why we love it: This canyon home is infused with natural influence. From the stone work on the walls to the marble finishes, iron additions, and on-point wood workings throughout, the home's exterior surroundings weave seamlessly into the interior, making it the perfect mountainside oasis.
See it all for yourself in the two-part reveal here and here.
Sweet Bath Co. Commercial Project
Photos by: Lindsay Salazar Photography
As much as we adore working residential, switching it up with commercial spaces is always a fun change of pace. Especially when that space is as sparkling as this Traverse Mountain shop.
Why we love it: This isn't your ordinary shop. It's open and inviting but also warm and cozy. Of course, they're sensational bath bombs and other self-care products are pretty wonderful too. For a sneak peek, you can do a little shopping from the comfort of your phone, but there's nothing like visiting the shop in person to take in the full ambiance of this 2022 design highlight.
See the full Sweet Bath Co. reveal here.
Marx/Herr Residential Project
Photos by Lindsay Salazar Photography
The blank slate of a new build always fills us with joy. When we started this home project, the building process was nearly complete, which meant we got to collaborate with the amazing owners with every decorative detail.
Why we love it: This home has beauty and style all its own. The floral influences and soft feminine touches throughout make it feel light and so very happy! Plus, you've simply got to see the master closet in this one!
Take a two-part look around by visiting here and here.
The Black Goose Design Remodel Project (upper level)
Big things are happening around here! Here's a first look at the many chic updates we’re making to our showroom at The Black Goose Design. (Check back soon for a look at the full reveal!)
What a difference a new wall finish makes! Need help adding texture to your walls. Our designers are full of helpful tips and tricks that will make the project one you can tackle.
We’re in shiplap heaven with this facelift, featuring a top 2022 color – Redend Point 9081 by Sherwin Williams.
The wall wonder continues with a fresh coat of Vintage Vogue 462 paint by Benjamin Moore on the bricks and tons of rich texture using wood.
TIP: Adding texture or even just new paint to a blank wall is relatively low-cost/time investment that guarantees a big return.
2022 Market Memories
Of course, we can’t list every item that caught our eye at this year’s markets, but here are two of the ones that leave a big impression.
High Point Furniture Market
Doesn’t this BEAUTIFUL sitting area by Wesley Hall make you want to sit for a bit and share some laughs with friends? What a cozy yet cool vibe!
See more show favorites here and visit The Black Goose Design to get your hands on the pieces we purchased from the show.
As this gorgeous Wesley Hall number represents, we saw lots of warm shades and playful patterns this year.
Cheers!
Awwww, 2022, you certainly were good to us! Thanks, friends, for joining us for the reminiscing. We hope the trip down memory lane leaves you feeling inspired and excited about the fabulous things to come in the year ahead. We can assure you, they’re going to be GOOD. In the meantime, thanks for making this year so magical (and pretty!).
Wednesday Nov 23 2022 by Stacey Beyer
Decorate a tree that sparkles in three easy steps. The expert designers at The Black Goose Design have tips to create an evergreen look that’s on point!
Before we get into the our three tree steps, we have a few go-to tips we use at The Black Goose Design.
Three Tree Tips
Okay, now that we have a few key tree tips in place, let’s get to decorating! If you want to light your tree, begin by adding lights, from there, we suggest taking the following approach:
1. Start with stems. Stems, also known as picks, are a larger focal point, so it makes sense to start here. Place a few in strategic spots around the tree. Your tree will instantly start to fill in with texture and color.
Stem Tip: Feel free to stick with the same style or mix and match in styles that complement.
2. Time for the larger ornaments. These can be harder to place, so it’s’ wise to get them on early.
3. Finish off your look with the small details. Fill any remaining holes with small bulbs and trinkets. For extra texture, try tying small ribbons to the branches. We adore a slim velvet trim!
There you have it! In three simple steps, your Christmas tree is holiday perfection. Of course, we’d be remiss if we failed to mention a fourth and ever-so-important tip – HAVE FUN! Don’t overthink it or get too caught up in trends and “perfection.”
Happy holidays from your friends at The Black Goose Design!
Wednesday Nov 9 2022 by Stacey Beyer
A new year means new trending colors to love, but this hue is clearly standing the test of time as a timeless classic – PINK! What do we expect more of in 2023? Pink paint! And we couldn’t be more tickled. We'll share a few of our favorite shades at The Black Goose Design.
image credit: Farrow & Ball
PINK PAINT FOR 2023
Redend Point (SW 9081)
It's easy to see why this warm, welcoming hue is the Sherwin Williams Color of the year.
Conch Shell (052) by Benjamin Moore
This soothing shade is one of the selected Color Trends for 2023. See the shades Benjamin Moore pairs it with here.
image credit: Benjamin Moore
Templeton Pink no. 303 by Farrow & Ball
image credit: Farrow & Ball
Pink is no longer just for little kids and dreamhouses. These tones are straight out of nature. No wonder they have the ability to create such a calming effect.
PINK FABRIC
If you want to try pink on for size before taking your roller for a spin on those walls, look at adding pink fabrics to your upholstered items. Whether it’s a full-on pink chair or sofa (swoon!) or some pink accent pillows, you’ll feel the warmth and coziness this color family creates.
Ready to think pink? Stop by The Black Goose Design today, and we’ll help you find your perfect pink match.
Wednesday Oct 26 2022 by Stacey Beyer
It’s always a happy day when we get to introduce a new team member at The Black Goose Design. Meet Ashley Bell, a designer as skilled with traditional pen and paper as she is with CAD creation. She loves the classic simplicity of neutrals but also finds herself drawn to the ornate and eclectic. Let’s get to know Ashley a bit better and learn a few fresh ideas to try in the process.
Ashley is from Idaho but moved to Utah when she started school at Ensign College, where she studied interior design.
FAVORITE SPACE TO DESIGN: The Bedroom
Q: How do you find out what those unique aspects are?
A: I spend time getting to know them and how they tend to use the space from a practical point of view. But I also observe their likes beyond interior design. What style of clothing do they wear? What art do they like? These observations are great clues when thinking of ways to make a bedroom feel custom.
FAVORITE TREND GOING INTO WINTER 2022: Texture
FAVORITE COLOR COMBO: Neutrals & Pastels
YOUR STYLE: Parisian/Maximalist
GO-TO TIP: Love It
Ashley is an extremely talented designer who can sketch detailed renderings on paper or using a computer. Her fresh eye and unique style interests make working with her fun. The best part is, she can work with any style or interest. Perhaps your minimalist and feel less is more. That’s okay. Ashley certainly has much to offer you in your design project process. We’ll leave you with a look at some of her portfolio pieces. Reach out today by calling The Black Goose Design or stopping in to learn more about Ashley and set up a consultation.
Wednesday Oct 12 2022 by Stacey Beyer
Who are we to deny you what you want? Recently, we shared a sneak peek of some of the fab fall and winter accessories headed your way this season. The response was big! Big enough, in fact, that we’re back with more. Here’s an even closer look at the good things available to you this holiday season at The Black Goose Design. (You’re welcome!)
SET TO IMPRESS
Get ready to set. The table is a natural gathering place in the home. Make it shine with a few fresh layers. Reach for a cutting board. Place a pretty bowl. Opt for an attractive container.
TIP TO TRY: Decorate using a favorite book. It adds a personal and interesting touch.
Don’t forget the flora.
This time of year, greenery and foliage replace flowers as a timeless centerpiece. Look for rich hues and interesting textures.
COZY UP
Want to know our fav go-to tip with making a bed feel extra inviting? Place a fluffy, folded duvet along the foot of the bed. It’s an easy way to make your guest room feel like a luxury resort.
With cooler temps, knits are another excellent way to weave in some warmth.
TURNING TEMPS (AND SCENTS) UP
The candle craze is here! We have battery-powered options if you want something that lasts.
Flammable finds are also in store. It’s hard to resist the fall smells available, but we do offer unscented candles if you simply want to add warmth without the added aromas.
METALLIC MAGIC
As you think ahead to holiday decorating make a metallic note. With the gorgeous glow these pieces add, you’ll be humming a little Silver & Gold by Burl Ives in no time.
Thanks for asking for more in décor. We LOVE sharing and are always delighted to know you share our passion for the pretty. For even more fall and winter wonders, check out our Instagram account or stop by and see them IRL soon.
Wednesday Sep 14 2022 by Stacey Beyer
Fall into a cozy at-home vibe without going “in your face” with autumn additions. These simple updates will give your home a seasonal shift without feeling overdone. Take a look at some of what we're loving right now at The Black Goose Design!
Set the Tone
Adding earth tones is on trend right now, no matter the season, but this is an ideal time to get on board with the idea if you haven’t done so already. Look to natural wood finishes and warmer hues to add some autumn elegance.
Switch Up Your Greens
No, we aren’t talking your latest smoothie ingredient. This is all about swapping out florals. You can reuse jars and pots and simply add some fall-inspired arrangements. Our go-tos are fall berries and, of course, autumn leaves!
Let’s Layer
Adding a few extra throws and swapping out your accent pillows instantly ups the cozy level.
Accessory Recess(ory)
Don’t forget to put away accessories that don’t work with your fall décor. It’s okay if some items need to hibernate for the winter. Rather than working around colors that don’t evoke a fall feel, swap them out for more season-appropriate looks. Or, if you prefer a look that lasts, turn to metallic neutrals, like these gorgeous gold canisters.
Light it Up
Candle light is always a good idea. Especially now, when candles are battery/remote operated, making them convenient to use. You know such light is the perfect fall finishing touch. Plus, candles are a gorgeous fixture to use throughout the upcoming holiday season. Get them out now and have one less thing to do later.
Come in and check out our Radiance Candles in ivory and champagne. These gorgeous neutral shades complement so many décor styles and seasons!
Just because it’s fall doesn’t mean you have to go nuts with décor updates. In this in-between time, as we eagerly await the coming holiday decorating season, try making a few adjustments using any of the ideas above. It will get you thinking sweater weather without layering on a bunch of extra work. Visit The Black Goose Design today for more looks you're sure to, ahem, fall for.
Wednesday Aug 24 2022 by Stacey Beyer
Hello, and happy Kylie Day! We’re calling it that because it’s time to formally introduce you to talented team member, Kylie Cardwell. She’s been an interior designer with The Black Goose Design since March and, before joining us, she also designed for our sister store, CF Home Furniture & Design. In other words, we’ve been eagerly anticipating this e-meet-and-greet for a while now. Let’s get right to it, shall we?
Q. Rumor has it, you have a BS in kinesiology (the science of human body movement). Very cool! But, we’ve gotta ask, how does that turn into a career in design?
A. I spent much of my life in dance, both as a dancer and as a dance instructor. This degree made sense. But there was always a part of me very drawn to design. It stems from my grandmother. She’s constantly updating her home and helping friends and family with theirs. Like her, I have a huge passion and creativity for interior design, and something told me I couldn’t ignore that.
Q. How does your grandmother feel about being the inspiration behind your career shift?
A. She loves it! She’s so happy. In fact, she and I share ideas and inspiration back and forth all the time. It’s very special to have that kind of connection!
Q. What is your favorite area of the home to design and why?
A. Like many designers, I’m drawn to the living room, because that’s where everyone hangs out, but I also love the entry of a home. It’s a great place to make a statement. It’s the first thing people see, so it draws the eye and can set the tone for the entire home.
Q. How would you describe your personal design style?
A. Cozy comes to mind. Also, earthy and organic with some Scandinavian touches.
Q. What is your go-to color scheme right now?
A. Natural tones – tans, white oak, creams – with some moodier shades of gray, brown, and black mixed in.
Q. Can you describe what your design process looks like?
A. It can look any number of ways, depending on the size of the project. I recently helped a client redesign her entire home, which meant walking through each room with her, taking pictures, taking notes, taking measurements… After the in-home consultation, I prepared a plan and presented it to her. In this case, she needed everything ready by November, which added the challenge of sourcing ideas and custom work that could be done quickly. Every project presents unique curveballs. That’s part of what makes it exciting.
On larger projects like this, I’ll typically pair pictures from our in-home consult with product shots, swatches, patterns, and color schemes. Sometimes I'll provide more than one idea so the client has options to compare. Texture is always a good idea, so I’ll pull pieces that are sure to add various finishes. Once the design feels cohesive and captures the client’s wants, we’ll go over the ideas together and modify where needed. It’s such a fun and creative part of the process!
Q. You clearly have a great eye! Anything in particular catching it right now at The Black Goose Design?
A. Oh my… so many things! I guess my current fav would have to be this beautiful coffee table we just got in. It’s such a cute shape and the gorgeous light wood works so well with a variety of different styles and colors. You can even pair it with darker wood tones. Don’t shy away from mixing finishes.
Q. Thanks, Kylie! Any parting advice?
A. Sometimes, you have to listen to your heart. Your life might be going in one direction, but something is pulling you in another. Don’t ignore that. Following my heart and establishing a design career has made me so happy. I love being a part of the team here at The Black Goose Design!
Thanks, Kylie. We’re so happy to have your talents and warm personality on this team.
Stop by and meet Kylie at The Black Goose Design soon. She’s full of fresh ideas and happy to help you bring some new life to your space.
Wednesday Aug 10 2022 by Stacey Beyer
Hello, VIP! Here’s your backstage pass to the Las Vegas Furniture Market. Members of our team at The Black Goose Design joined buyers from our Mill Company sister stores — CF Home Furniture & Design, Down to Earth, and Layers Bedding — for a trip to Las Vegas, where we got to check out the very good things coming to stores near you soon. Here’s a sneak peek at a few of our trends and even an early glimpse at some of the Christmas looks you can expect!
TURNING UP THE HEAT
The colors keep getting warmer and warmer. We adore the comforting shades you can expect to see more of in the coming weeks and months.
LET’S PLAY
It’s all about playful. From bright shades to happy patterns, the calm neutral look is about to meet its match with lively hues and moods on the horizon.
FULL OF WOOL
Here in Utah, where four unique seasons can do a number on home fixtures and features, we love our wool. For one reason, it’s durable. For another, it’s easy to clean. So you can bet we were excited to see so much wool in the works!
We’re delighted to offer even more in-demand wool, including these welcoming rugs.
HOLIDAY FIRST LOOK
Sure, it’s still summer, but we’ve got our sites set on the upcoming holiday season. The halls are about to be decked in some gorgeous new looks. Here’s a quick sneak peek of one of the favorites making our Nice list.
From market to store, you can expect to find these looks and more coming to The Black Goose Design before the year is through. We get new pieces in all the time, so stop by often to get first dibs on your must-haves. Until then, we'll leave you with the stuff sweet dreams are made of — a few gorgeous beds that have us ready for a satisfying slumber!
Wednesday Jul 27 2022 by Stacey Beyer
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.
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.
From that instant connection and shared vision came this gorgeous outcome.
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.
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.
4. CONSIDER CUSTOMS
A commercial space has unique needs, which can mean unique fixtures and pieces. The Black Goose Design can help with that!
5. DESIGN WITHIN DESIGN
Retail often calls for unique areas and experiences within the larger space. That was the case at Sweet Bath Co.
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.
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.
Del Reanne worked primarily with Melissa on this project and felt an instant connection to her and the brand’s supportive mission.
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.
Wednesday Jul 13 2022 by Stacey Beyer
What comes to mind when you think “wallpaper?” Grandma’s kitchen, perhaps? Actually, this is no longer a look of the past. Today’s wallcoverings are modern and amazing. Perhaps you’re already on the wallcovering wagon? We’re right there with you! We love the way this modern design solution can transform a space!
WHY WALL COVERINGS?
Why not? There is MUCH to love about wallcoverings. Here are just a few of the many benefits:
1. COLOR POP
Whether you want a bold hue without the mess of paint or you want to take it even further and add an entire mural to your wall, wallcoverings provide the solution!
2. TEXTURE
These aren’t your grandma’s wallcoverings. Today’s designs are far from flat. Available textures include linen, vinyl, leather, grass cloth, cork, silk, raffia and more!
3. DEPTH
Thanks to the dynamic designs and textures, wallcoverings can take a flat wall and bring it to life!
Ready to welcome wallcoverings into your home? We’re here to help. Stop by The Black Goose Design today to flip through our many samples. If you aren’t sure what look would be best, we can offer helpful tips, or you can hire one of our trained team members to do a site visit and work on a more complete design plan with you. After all, we love sharing our wallcovering wisdom and would be thrilled to talk options with you soon!
Wednesday Jun 22 2022 by Stacey Beyer
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:
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.
Wednesday Jun 8 2022 by Stacey Beyer
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!
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.
As you can see from these before and after shots, the Bell Canyon Home underwent quite the transformation under GV Construction.
BEFORE
AFTER
BEFORE
AFTER
BEFORE
AFTER
The collaboration continued at The Black Goose Design, where more than one senior designer on our team worked with Angie on the interior details.
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.
“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.”
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.
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.
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.
Wednesday May 25 2022 by Stacey Beyer
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!
Wednesday May 11 2022 by Stacey Beyer
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 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.
Wednesday Apr 27 2022 by Stacey Beyer
Welcome to this magic carpet ride! We compiled our go-to rug rules of thumb. From size and material to care and maintenance, consider this your go-to source for rug wisdom.
MATERIAL, GIRL
Like any other textile, rugs come in various fibers and finishes. Understanding your different options and what to put where will help ensure your rug stands the test of time.
image credit: Lindsay Salazar
RUG SIZING
One of the most common questions we get is about size. What size rug should you get for your space. Here are a few helpful points of reference:
Beneath a Bed
Queen Bed: Minimum rug size is 6x9; ideal size is 8x10
King Bed: Minimum rug size is 8x10; ideal size is 9x12
Beneath Living Room Furniture
This one has many variables to consider (size of room, placement of furniture, etc.). With that, it’s best to look at your rug as an anchor. As long as the front legs of your furniture items are on the rug a minimum of 4-6 inches, you’re in good shape!
image credit: Lindsay Salazar
Beneath a Dining Table
A dining room rug should extend 24 inches past the edges of the table. Ideally, you want the legs of your dining chairs to be on the rug. Specifically, the side chairs, which can sometimes mean placing a custom rug order to get the perfect size. For tables extending longer than 8’, 9x12 rugs can come up short. We know not everyone can afford a custom rug. Don't fret. If your host chairs hang off the rug just a bit, we won’t tell.
Dining Tip: Select a rug with a low pile to keep chairs from catching as they slide in and out. Ideally, one that cleans easily.
In the Entry
Go big! Avoid 2’x3’ rugs in this area to keep the rug from looking like a door mat. A larger rug in your entry will elevate the look and create a more inviting space. Since this is where people enter the home from outside, durable and cleanable are a must! If it can fit, 5x7 is a great size for this space.
RUG RULE OF THUMB
When rug shopping, the main thing to remember is that every space is different. With that, these rug “rules” can vary from space to space. If a typical rug size doesn't fit your space, we have custom rug options.
RUG WISDOM
We always recommend following the care instructions on your rug tag and having your rug professionally cleaned. We also recommend using a rug pad, which helps prevent slipping hazards, adds comfort, and creates added durability.
YOUR RUG HUB
We have hundreds of rug samples in store. Guess what?! You can even check them out to see how they look in your home before making a purchase. Stop by today and try a few on for size. Rugs are a wonderful way to update the home, create warmth, and make your surroundings all the more inviting. Rugs for the win!
Wednesday Apr 13 2022 by Stacey Beyer
High Point Furniture Market is like a crystal ball of good things on the design horizon! We love making this trip to North Carolina to take in the trends, shop for new pieces, and immerse ourselves in the wonderful world of home décor and design.
Will you be our +1? Join us on this walk-through of Market highlights and favs!
Market Must #1: Warm Meets Cool
Whether you’re on Team Warm or drool for cool, the upcoming color schemes should make you smile. We saw gorgeous warms like red and rust being paired with calming greens and blues. These winning rugs from Surya are prime examples.
Market Must #2: Traditional Timelessness
Sometimes “traditional” is associated with heavy, dark, and large pieces. Not the case with these beautiful pieces.
Market Must #3: Neutral Fabric
One of the best things about working with the vendors we do is the wide world of customization made available to you. You have so many gorgeous choices in upholstery with pieces like these from Wesley Hall, so even if you aren’t sure about a neutral finish, you can come in and shop our huge assortment of swatches to find your perfect finish!
Market Must #4: Dedication to Detail
From fancy frames to intricate fabric finishes, the subtle but impeccable details spotted on our favorite pieces prove it pays to invest in quality brands. We’ll leave you with a look at a few more of our must-haves!
Break up the solid routine with a fresh pattern on a favorite accent chair!
The fringe takes this Wesley Hall ottoman to the next level!
We adore the placement of these Wesley Hall chaise pieces and the detail in the upholstery!
Thanks for joining us on this spring 2022 market recap. Stop by The Black Goose Design for more fresh looks for spring!
Wednesday Mar 23 2022 by Stacey Beyer
The Lee Industries Tailor Made Ottoman is our go-to at The Black Goose Designs for MANY reasons. Take a look at why it holds our hearts.
image: Lindsay Salazar
IT'S YOUR TOP CHOICE FOR TOPS
Where finishes are concerned, this ottoman offers several options. Choose from one of the following:
1. Plain: Offering a smooth, modern, seamless look.
2. Diamond Tuft: For a more traditional take, this geometric option is a girl’s best friend. (And a guy’s, for that matter!)
3. Waffle Tuft: Mmmmm… waffles… No, it’s not the delicious name that makes this pattern our go-to. It’s the fact that it offers a beautiful blend between the two aforementioned tufts (plain and diamond), creating a pleasing transitional design.
IT’S SIZE WISE
This is far from a one-size-fits-all ottoman. In fact, you can customize it to nearly any size you’d like.
You can even make it into an eye-catching bench!
While we’re firm believers that it’s hip to be square, we are also all about the round option!
IT’S A PHOTO FINISH
Whether you opt for leather or another fabric, you’ll swoon at the photo-worthy finish. Choose from any number of fabric or leather options and find the perfect material for your space.
Fabric Finish
Leather Finish
image: Lindsay Salazar
A LEG UP
Adding another customizable feature, you can select from various leg styles, including tapered and round, casters and no casters.
Adding to the leg love, you can also choose your wood finish.
DECORATIVE EXTRAS
Time to choose your finishing touches. You have various welt choices, including a bias welt, a leather welt, and more. (Learn more about welts here.) The following is an example of a fabric ottoman with a leather welt. What a striking combo!
image: Lindsay Salazar
If adding hardware, you’ll find Lee has many nail heads to consider. You also have stitching selections, buttons, mitering, and even bands to consider. We love the fabric band paired with the leather top on this round design!
Who knew one small furniture piece could pack such a BIG punch? Stop by The Black Goose Design in Midvale, Utah today and see this Lee Designs beauty for yourself! You really oughtta, man. (Sorry. Couldn't help ourselves.) But, seriously, you definitely want to come by and check it out soon! :)
Wednesday Mar 9 2022 by Stacey Beyer
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!
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.
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!
Wednesday Feb 23 2022 by Stacey Beyer
It's the final week of February, and love certainly lingers in the air. Perhaps that’s why we long to whisper sweet nothings in your ear. Actually… on second thought… this pillow talk is all about the sweet somethings. More specifically, accent pillow pointers! Let's look at a few tips and tricks for accenting your sofa with this decorative dream:
ACCENT PILLOW POINTERS = FLAWLESS SOFA STYLING
Step 1: Bring on the Bookends
When adding decorative pillows to your seating, a safe approach is to begin with a foundation pair of matching pillows. We like to refer to these as your bookends, as they create a strong anchor, a pleasing sense of balance, and an obvious frame for everything to come afterward.
PILLOW POINTER: Bookends can be solid or patterned. There's no right or wrong option.
Pilow Pointer: Here's some budget-friendly buzz to note. A neutral bookend, like these divine white pillows, can sit pretty all year long, while those that come after can change with the seasons.
Step 2: Add Accents
This second pillow layer is a great place to break away from mirror images and instead select two pillows that complement.
PILLOW POINTER: A good rule of thumb to keep in mind here is the overall size of the print. Opt for small, medium, and large patterns for easy movement. If you were to use all large-patterned pillows, the eye wouldn’t know where to look, whereas a progression in size is easy for the eye to follow.
Step 3: Do you, pillow, take these pillows…
Want to tie your look together? If your answers is an enthusiastic “I do!,” the marriage pillow is key. This bridge connects all of your pillows, typically through color. In true matrimony fashion, a marriage pillow creates unity by representing shades from each of the pillows in play.
Commitment issues clearly aren't a problem for this handsome fella. With shades of blue and gold, he's the family man of pillow, here for the long haul.
A FEW MORE POINTERS TO ADD TO YOUR PILLOW PLAYBOOK
Just like that, you’ve mastered flawless sofa styling! Not wanting this love fest to end, we’ll leave you with a bit more pillow talk and tips to try:
1. We know, we know... Again with the texture. What can we say, it just feels right. ;) Pillows are an excellent place to incorporate different finishes. Whether you’re pairing linen with knit or velvet with cotton, combining different finishes is always a good idea!
2. Monochromatic doesn’t mean monochro-boring. A single color scheme is classy and calming. To ensure this solo approach doesn’t turn into a sofa blah, vary your prints. Pssst… Don’t forget to keep the scale/size of your patterns in mind and vary those, too.
3. Say yes to solids. As much as we adore patterns, weaving in a solid is a, well, solid choice. It offers grounding and allows the surrounding patterns to shine.
4. Little lumbars are like the team-building exercise of pillows. They’re there to support the whole gang as another unifying option to consider. Have fun mixing up the height of your pillow tops from time to time!
Want to mix and match pillows until you find your perfect match? Stop by The Black Goose Design, here in Midvale, Utah, and try ours on for size. We’re happy to help and offer suggestions or simply let you do it to it until you’ve found perfect pillow placement.
Wednesday Jan 26 2022 by Stacey Beyer
If we could sum 2022 up in one word it would be… NATURAL. Natural elements and nature-inspired finishes are all the rage this year. From earth tones to organic textures, it’s all about simplicity and getting back to our roots. Take a look!
WHY NATURAL?
NATURALLY SPEAKING
Here are a few of the MANY ways nature-inspired looks are appearing in interior design:
From rocking the rattan to singing the blues (and greens!), now’s a wonderful time to thank Mother Nature for the organic wonders adding warmth to our homes. Which natural look is your favorite?
Adding a few new natural pieces to your surroundings is a great way to welcome spring (or at least get a jump on that beloved season!). Stop by The Black Goose Design, located in Midvale, Utah, and find an organic option to adore today!
Tuesday Jan 11 2022 by Stacey Beyer
Putting the holiday décor away is a bittersweet experience. It’s nice to have things back in order, but it can also leave things feeling… bare. After all, glitter and lights and packages galore can be a tough act to follow! If you now find yourself feeling the post-holiday void (or you simply want a new ‘do for 2022), try these three simple tricks:
1. SET YOUR SIGHTS ON HEIGHT
A common design slip comes when décor items used are all the same (or nearly the same) height. It’s one of the great things about a Christmas tree — it adds height to a space. Follow the pine’s flair for design and introduce another taller element into your space and see if it doesn’t create some more interest.
Height to Try:
2. ADD A TOUCH OF TEXTURE
Just as the holidays warm a space with furs and flannels and all the warmth of winter, texture can continue to create a cozy vibe well into spring.
Texture to Try:
3. PLAY DRESS UP
Kids aren’t the only ones who love a good game of dress up. Dress those windows with new window treatments. Like icing on the cake, this is a sweet way to transform a space with a perfect finishing touch!
Treatments to Try:
Chase those winter blues away with these easy-to-apply ideas. They’ll add instant warmth to your home and fill that holiday void in no time. Our designers at The Black Goose Design in Midvale, Utah are always happy to meet and discuss your unique space and ideal solutions. Call to schedule a consultation today.
Wednesday Dec 22 2021 by Stacey Beyer
We always adore designing homes, but we feel an extra appreciation this time of year. After all, creating a space where our clients can gather together and make memories is a gift! In that spirit of togetherness, our team at The Black Goose Design is here to share a few of our favorite holiday traditions with you. Perhaps you’ll find a new idea to enjoy with your loved ones!
HOLIDAY TRADITIONS TO TRY
Thanks for joining us on this stroll down Memory Lane. Wherever you find yourself this season, we hope you’re enjoying traditions of your own with the ones you love. Happy holidays!
Warmly,
Your friends at The Black Goose Design
Wednesday Dec 8 2021 by Stacey Beyer
With a new year comes new colors to crave. Some are subtle variations on timeless favorites, while others are new to the spectrum of must-have hues. Let’s take a look at the shades coloring our world at The Black Goose Design going into 2022, starting with Benjamin Moore’s 2022 Color of the Year…
October Mist (1495)
image credit: Benjamin Moore
Here’s what they have to say about this earthy elegance:
Well said and great work, Benjamin Moore! Ready to see the rest of the carefully-curated palette? Let’s do it!
Gloucester Sage
image credit: Benjamin Moore
Pale Moon
image credit: Benjamin Moore
Wildflower
image credit: Benjamin Moore
Farrow & Ball Curated by Liberty
In other color news (is there any better kind?), two of our favorite brands, Farbricut (Liberty fabric) and Farrow & Ball, have joined forces to bring us paint AND prints in colors that coordinate! The happiness gets even better. We carry Liberty fabrics at The Black Goose Design, so you can come in and select your favorites, knowing there’s a paint to pair it with. Here are a few of the stunning examples of this partnership!
image credit: Farrow & Ball
image credit: Farrow & Ball
image credit: Farrow & Ball
Thanks for chatting color with us today! It’s one of our favorite topics and aspects of design. Have questions about how to add a little more color to your space? Call to schedule a paint consultation. Whether it’s the Color of the Year or simply your go-to fav, we want to see it and help you find your perfect solution!
Wednesday Nov 24 2021 by Stacey Beyer
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.
Thursday Nov 11 2021 by Stacey Beyer
When you think of MODERN design, what impressions come to mind? It’s commonly thought that modern = cool or sterile. (Especially in a space that's quite large!) This stunning South Jordan, Utah, home, which stands at an impressive 10,000 sq. feet, proves that couldn’t be further from the truth.
MODERN = WARM & INVITING!
Through strategic use of texture and an organic/natural influence, this residence is cozy and welcoming — a perfect complement to the warm people who call this beauty home.
NATURAL INFLUENCE
As soon as you open the front door, it’s clear that this home brings the stunning outdoors in. In fact, the stone that adorns the front exterior also wraps around and lines the entryway of the interior.
You’ll also find various other natural influences throughout, including gorgeous wood detail, plants, stone, and an earth-toned color scheme.
BRINGING THE OUTSIDE IN WITH TEXTURE
A great way to warm up the clean lines and geometric structure of a modern design is with texture. From bricks and wood to granite and metal, the strategically placed finishes add movement and a cozy feel to this home. They've even added water features to the organic mix! The lesson here: Don't be afraid to bring exterior elements IN!
Various beams and wall treatments were even made to look like concrete. Very cool!
LIGHT IT UP
Another way to brighten up a home? Windows!
So. Many. Wonderful. Windows.
We love the way these homeowners opted for minimal window treatments (electric roller shades), which they keep open most of the time. Not only do they allow natural light to flow freely in, they also treat the eyes to the gorgeous Utah surroundings!
THE FIXTURE IS IN
Various light fixtures throughout the home provide ample warm lighting, adding to the relaxing ambiance.
Isn’t this cabinet lighting in the bathroom a nice touch? It would be a great addition in a guest bath, as you could leave it on at night to guide guests without causing a distraction.
Of course, the chandelier above the tub isn't bad either. (Swoon!)
Don't be afraid to take risks with your light fixtures. Selecting pieces that make YOU happy will set your home apart from the rest and allow your personality to come shining through. Isn’t this linear light hanging above the two-story ceiling in the kitchen a cool statement piece?
The homeowners weren’t afraid to take risks with their lighting, and those risks pay off in a chic and unique way!
GUYS JUST WANNA HAVE FUN
Who says girls get to have all the fun. The gentleman homeowner is a visionary who had brilliant ideas for this entire abode, including the oh, so FUN lower level. Join us next time for an inspiring look at how to make your house into an entertainment mecca. With these design ideas, you’ll never have to leave home again!
A NOTE FROM THE DESIGNER
I’m going to miss these homeowners and our regular encounters. After seeing them weekly for a year and a half, we've established a tremendous connection. I consider them dear friends of mine. That's the wonderful thing about an extensive design project like this. The designer and the homeowner(s) really get to know and understand one another, making it an exciting and rewarding process." --Denise Johnson, The Black Goose Design, Midvale, Utah
ABOUT THIS POST
Nearly all furnishings and décor in this post are available through The Black Goose Design.
Pillows, throws, and bedding 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. Well done, all!
Wednesday Oct 13 2021 by Stacey Beyer
What do you get when you combine a designer with a team player with a CAD specialist? Rachel Corbett, our newest team member at The Black Goose Design.
With a degree in design and certified CAD abilities and training, Rachel has proven an outstanding addition since starting at The Black Goose Design six months ago.
“Having Rachel here has been awesome,” Manager Georgia Kendall said. “She’s always willing to help with anything around the store, she brings fresh perspective and ideas to the table for our clients, and her CAD drawings elevate our services, particularly where the construction process is concerned.”
When asked about her favorite aspects of the position, Rachel said it's the variety and creativity that bring her the greatest job satisfaction, as well as the team she works with.
“My grandma was an artist,” Rachel said. “I remember how she’d come from work and paint to fill her creative bucket. It’s nice that I get to COME to work and be creative. It’s the best possible outcome for me.”
Clearly, talent runs in Rachel’s family. No wonder she’s always had a desire to make.
“I’ve always been into interior design, but I grew up in a small town and didn’t know it could become a career. My interests grew when I worked for a local store in town, doing DIY projects and preparing furniture to sell. That opened my eyes to schooling possibilities.”
After getting her degree in design, Rachel pursued CAD (computer-aided design).
WHY CAD?
Having this service offered at The Black Goose Design makes a big difference for our clients. Especially those building a home or office space.
“Using CAD, I can download an architect’s floorplan with their precise measurements. We can then add furniture options in, complete with measurements, so clients can see how a piece will fit with the overall flow of the space. Where architects are always quite busy getting their jobs done, I’m glad I can take this on for our clients and make the process easier for everyone involved.”
Here, Rachel drafted a fireplace design for a client so they could envision the end result and unique brick pattern before committing to the style.
It’s fun to see the end product and how closely it aligns to the work Rachel does upfront.
In this example, Rachel created a digital version of a gorgeous flooring design.
The end result is a perfect match and certainly doesn't disappoint! While we aren't going to reveal the entire thing yet, here's a sneak peek.
MAKING MOODS
Beyond drafting, Rachel also enjoys using a computer to create 3D mood boards for clients.
“Mood boards are a great way to identify a client’s true style. I ask clients to provide inspiration images and we can pinpoint what it is they want. There have been many times when I’ve asked a client what their style is. They’ll respond with something like Farmhouse, so I’ll show them that style and they’ll realize that isn’t actually what they want after all. This is why time spent on mood boards is time well spent. Plus, it’s fun getting to connect creatively in this way.”
Want a mood board or a drafted floorplan to design from? Wise choice. Stop by and talk to Rachel or any of the designers at The Black Goose Design. Our team loves working together, collaborating and pulling from our unique strengths, all to ensure you get the best possible outcome on your project.
Welcome, Rachel! We’re so happy you’re here. You really do make our services that much better, and you’re such fun to have around. Clients and team members alike are in for a treat when working with you!
Wednesday Sep 22 2021 by Stacey Beyer
From pumpkin spice to buckets full of candy, fall makes our mouths water at The Black Goose Design. Of course, it’s the 2021 color trends that really have us saying YUM!
image credit: Wesley Hall
Hues are going deep with rust red, burnt orange, and rich shades of burgundy, blue, and green.
fabric by Highland House Furniture
image credit: Highland House Furniture
fabric by Highland House Furniture
These cozy colors pair perfectly with leather. Good news! We have some fabulous leather pieces on order that should be arriving just in time for the holidays.
image credit: Four Hands
image credit: Wesley Hall
image credit: Bradington Young
image credit: Highland House Furniture
Fall is all about layering. Like your favorite sweater, a decorative pillow can add just the right amount of warmth to your home. We have many new styles to choose from that definitely say "fall."
Sweater weather is here. Time to cozy up your home with some inviting autumn shades. Stop by The Black Goose Design and grab a few new pieces today.
image credit: Wesley Hall
Wednesday Sep 8 2021 by Stacey Beyer
It's market season, which means NEW delights coming your way at The Black Goose Design. We've just returned from the Las Vegas Furniture Market and have a few sneak peeks to share with you. Take a look and let us know which ones are calling your name!
A FEW FURNITURE FAVS
Striking 100” sideboards are a current fav in the furniture department, so you know we’re all about this amazing metal version! What a cool home addition this versatile piece will make, whether you add it to a game room, a great room, an entryway, or even a bedroom!
You’re going to want to sit down for this one… and never get up! These chairs are as comfortable as they are stylish!
LET’S GET DOWN TO BEDDING BUSINESS
Linen = LOVE! This inviting linen bedding is headed our way soon, just in time for you to create the coziest of fall beds!
AWESOME ACCESSORIES
We purchased a number of new accessories at this show, so you’ll have plenty of choices when it comes to lining your shelves, adorning your walls, and dressing up your dressers. Here are a few sweet items you can expect!
We’re all about large, textured, unique pieces that make a statement. Watch for vases and lanterns in various shapes and sizes.
Plus, we have THE BEST rechargeable candles coming this fall, which will give these containers the perfect autumn glow!
Plants are a main attraction right now. Look forward to a number of container options for housing your faux freshness!
Don’t forget your walls! The new wall art we found is both calming and striking, creating the ideal balance for your home décor.
What’s your favorite item here? Stop by The Black Goose Design to share what you’re loving this season. Trust us, you definitely want to see these beauties IRL, and you know we love seeing YOU!
Wednesday Aug 25 2021 by Stacey Beyer
Welcome back to the fab Canyon Residence, one of our latest new-build home projects to reach completion at The Black Goose Design. This attractive transitional design blends modern lines and prints with more classic curves and traditional colors.
All images provided by Lindsay Salazar Photography.
In our previous post, we were inspired at the home’s seamless inside/outside living space, as well as the way its mountainous surroundings influenced the overall look and feel. Today, we’re taking in the details and more of the inviting interior.
The dining room is an ideal example of transitional design. The curve and style of the chairs paired with the contemporary fabric beautifully illustrates the blend of modern and traditional.
You’ll find another example of transitional chair styling in the living room. We love how modern complements traditional!
In this attractive arrangement, the traditional finish of the warm white oak seamlessly joins the modern upholstery on the bench and the more dramatic dark wall.
If this remarkable home teaches us anything, it’s that anything can work with design. You don’t have to fit a set mold or trend to create a home that feels current yet classic. Don’t ever shy away from your style. Instead, stop by The Black Goose Design and let’s explore it. Together, we’ll come up with fresh takes for the looks and pieces you love. It’s a process we enjoy so much, and we can’t wait to experience it with you soon!
Wednesday Aug 11 2021 by Stacey Beyer
Hello, and welcome to the latest project to be completed by The Black Goose Design, the magical Canyon Residence!
photo credit: All images provided by Lindsay Salazar Photography.
At last, our big reveal is here! After two years in the making (from lot selection to completion), we’re delighted to finally pull back the curtain and share this inspiring canyon home. This is a big home, so we’re splitting our tour into two parts. Today, we're looking at how the stunning mountain surroundings have influenced the architecture and flow of this inviting residence.
INSIDE, OUT
With the unreal mountain backdrop, a seamless living space seemed a must. Inspired by the GRAND mountains, we went large to accommodate that inside-out-vibe.
LARGE TILE
In a space this size that flows from the interior to the exterior, large floor tile works well. It’s durable yet sophisticated and connects the two areas of the home nicely.
LARGE WINDOWS
Such an impressive view deserves nothing less. Floor-to-ceiling windows create the feeling of being at one with your surroundings, and who wouldn’t want to be connected to this serene scene?
ANGLED EXCELLENCE
The mountainous terrain even inspired the architecture of the home. Check out the how the roof peaks and valleys mirror those of the surrounding landscape.
Inside, the unique angles and lines continue. We worked with the architect to focus the views of the home on the mountains, which required veering from a traditional rectangular floorplan. This can, at first, seem overwhelming. It isn’t. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at The Black Goose Design with any questions you might have about maximizing space that doesn’t follow the standard mold. We love the challenge and have many tips for working with floorplans of all sizes and types.
TRANSITIONAL DESIGN
This home is a gorgeous example of transitional design. As the name suggests, this style transitions beautifully between modern and traditional, sampling elements from each aesthetic to an equally classic and fresh feel.
On the traditional side, we used stained white oak on the interior doors, while the custom-designed baseboards and door casings add a modern profile.
For seating, we paired classic menswear patterns on the upholstery with more traditional frames.
Working with this homeowner on this house has been an absolute treat. In fact, it’s the fourth project our designer, Randi Smith, has worked on with these particular homeowners, including our 2018 Parade of Homes residence. From the early days of visiting site lots with the owners to today’s big reveal, every step has been a memorable experience. We can’t wait to share part two with you soon!
Wednesday Jul 14 2021 by Stacey Beyer
You’re in for a rare treat! We’re taking you on a behind-the-scenes tour of one of our favorite furniture brands — Wesley Hall. Remain seated, please. Permanecer sentados, por favor.
Okay, so it isn’t THAT kind of ride, but you're in for a thrill if you appreciate hand-crafted quality and made-in-America tradition.
Members of our team at The Black Goose Design were lucky enough to visit the Wesley Hall factory in Hickory, NC, recently, and we’re sharing just a few of the MANY highlights.
Welcome to Wesley Hall!
If you know quality furniture, you know the name. Wesley Hall has been a family-owned business for generations (currently in their fifth generation making high-end upholstered products), crafting top-of-the-line sofas, ottomans, beds, bar/dining options, sectionals and chairs. They’re a locally-owned business that always makes quality the top priority!
MADE RESPONSIBLY
This made-in-the-US furniture keeps your wellbeing in the forefront of all it does. From springs made from recycled goods and coated with organic, lead-free materials to toxin-free, fire-retardant materials, you can expect the best! Of course, the way our Wesley Hall pieces sell, we already know you’re a fan. Here’s a client favorite, the Hartwell Chair.
And here’s what the same chair model looks like in the process of being hand crafted.
Step by Step
So much goes into every Wesley Hall piece produced. From the rolls and rolls of fabric to the many patterns to numerous artisans, it really is an impressive process with many moving parts and contributors.
This "Our Story" quick flick describes the process best. In a nut shell…
“Generations of tradition. Classic made current. We are Wesley Hall.”
Eight-Way What, Now?
Clearly, attention to detail is in every step of the time-intensive process. Of course, a little elbow grease is also involved. Have you ever heard of an eight-way hand tie? Wesley Hall sofas and sectionals are actually suspended so the springs can be tied eight ways, giving you a universal sit, no matter where your fav spot happens to be. This added (and BIG!) step keeps your springs in place so you won’t find yourself with a pit or springs that move around on you. Who knew an eight-way tie finish could be the ideal outcome? (See it in action here.)
Why Wesley?
Okay, so this question is a bit redundant at this point, but these gorgeous chairs should seal the deal. (If nothing else, it will delight our fellow furniture nerds!) See the way the intricate pattern lines up from section to section? That's what hand-engineered, hand-cut, hand-sewn quality gets you. Pretty cool, right?
The Tour Continues
We’ve done business with Wesley Hall for decades, but we still felt like kids in a candy store seeing where the magic behind some of our favorite furniture happens. We hope this back-stage look at your beloved pieces leaves you appreciating all that goes into them even more (if that’s possible). Now that you've seen the factory tour, take a virtual showroom tour here to see the latest and greatest from Wesley Hall. When you find your next obsession, give us a call and we'll see that it gets to you. Happy touring!
Wednesday Jun 16 2021 by Stacey Beyer
Welcome back to The House That She Built, which is available to tour as a part of the Utah Valley Parade of Homes, now through June 19, 2021!
In our last post, we shared the details behind this special home and a look at the bedrooms our team members at The Black Goose Design put together.
Today, the fun continues with a walk-through of the rest of the home. You’re in for an inspiring treat! The designers behind the main, upper, and lower living areas of the home went above and beyond.
NOTE: All images of The House That SHE Built featured in this post and our previous post were taken by Amanda Peterson.
MAIN LEVEL LIVING SPACE (designer: Allison Campbell)
DESIGN IDEA TO TRY: Slim Trim
Love the idea of a mantel but don’t want its footprint eating up limited space? Opt for a slim fireplace frame in an accent color. The color will make the statement without the need of a larger piece, and you’ll still have enough room for chic (and sleek!) décor!
SHE-influence: Cabinets for Miles
You’d be hard-pressed to find a woman alive who complains of too much storage space. No wonder a home engineered, constructed, and designed by women makes storage a priority!
UPPER LEVEL LOFT (designer: Kimberly Parker)
SHE-influence: Homework Happiness
One of the many neat things about this home being created completely by women is the way its design supports the demands of motherhood. No place is that more felt than this open study area. The ample use of natural light makes it a bright and inviting space for young scholars to focus on their studies. Having a designated study space makes the daily the homework routine easier to embrace and enforce.
LOWER LEVEL LIVING SPACE (designer: Kimberly Parker)
SHE-influence: Room to Move
This space takes the expression “my kids are climbing the walls” quite literally. Unlike days gone by, parents aren't as able to simply send their children outdoors to get their wiggles out. SHE to the rescue, with a room design focused on so much more than screen time. So cool!
TRENDS TO NOTE
One of our favorite things about any Parade of Homes is seeing the various design trends being showcased. It’s a wonderful opportunity to gain ideas and inspiration, and this home certainly delivers. Here are just a few of the looks throughout this home that we’re loving right now:
TREND TO NOTE: Color Blocking
Welcome to the block party! You’ll notice several color-blocked elements (items with solid blocks of different tones) used throughout this home. A gorgeous example in the main living area can be found on the drapes.
Look closely at the decorative pillows in the entryway and bedrooms. They’re another inviting example of color blocking.
Even the Roman shades on the kitchen window, in their own way, reflect color blocking. However, in place of two colors, it’s a block of color paired with a block of glass. The two-tone outcome remains and is enhanced by the use of two-tone cabinets.
Finally, you'll find big block appeal on the shower curtain in this bathroom designed by Chell Broadhead for Cambridge Home Company.
TREND TO NOTE: Geometrics
We know, we know, it’s summer. The last thing anyone wants to do is discuss geometry, but we can’t help but adore the striking geometric shapes used throughout this home. It’s a way to add interest and pattern in a way that doesn’t feel busy. From the details on the front door to the overhead lighting, a linear look greets you as soon as you enter.
You'll take a step in the geometric direction on these VERY cool stairs.
If you look closely at the backs of these stools, another geometric pattern is at play.
THE HOUSE THAT SHE Built — It’s About Opportunity
A Parade tour through The House That SHE Built concludes in the garage, where the walls are lined with images of the incredible women who made this plan a stunning reality. It’s a scene that made a significant impact on Utah’s Lt. Governor, Deidre Henderson.
In a recent event honoring this project, Lt. Governor Henderson reflected on how she couldn’t help but relate the garage scene to the government buildings she’s served in throughout the years, where the portraits lining the walls are predominantly male. In fact, in Utah’s 125-year history, only 31 senate seats have been held by females. No wonder the garage scene had such an impact!
The House That SHE Built is about so much more than inspiring design choices. It’s about inspiring females everywhere and reminding them that they can be anything they put their keen, capable minds to! With your visit, we hope you’ll embrace the opportunity to have this conversation with your amazing girls AND boys. Let the experience empower change and continue to open doors of opportunity for all.
Thanks for taking this virtual tour with us today. We hope to see you at the Utah Valley Parade of Homes for the LIVE tour soon. You only have until June 19, 2021 to stop by. Get your tickets here.
Wednesday Jun 9 2021 by Stacey Beyer
Hello! Come on in! Welcome to The House That SHE Built.
This is a project near and dear to our hearts, and we’re SO EXCITED to share the big reveal!
Okay, on with the reveal. Today, we’re going to focus on the areas of the home that two of our team members from The Black Goose Design, Denise Johnson and Randi Smith, furnished and decorated — the bedrooms! There are four bedrooms in this 3,200 sq. ft. home.
PRIMARY BEDROOM
Showing SHE-support
The drapes used in the bedrooms of this home were provided by a woman-owned business we admire — Annie Selke.
DESIGN TIP: Interior Brick Work
Nope, that's not brick paneling. It's actual brick. Did you know you can get thin brick, which looks amazing as a feature wall inside the home! Don't let its thin finish fool you; brick laying is an undertaking! We recommend you hire a professional for the install.
PRIMARY BATH
We know we said we were going to focus on the bedrooms, but this primary bedroom tour doesn't feel complete without a look at the amazing primary bath, designed by Chell Broadhead of Cambridge Homes.
TREND TO TRY: Wet Room
Bathrooms are getting a major upgrade with these all-inclusive spaces, designed for a full shower AND a soaker tub.
BEDROOM 1
DESIGN TIP: Focus Wall Wisdom
The accent-wall game is changing. In place of bright paint, walls are being treated with texture and pattern. Consider millwork, wallpaper, etc. Believe it or not, homeowners are even adding woodgrain tile to their walls right now, which creates a cool effect in areas like bathrooms where moisture is a factor.
SHOWING SHE-support
For this room, we were delighted to use Ditsy Floral wallpaper, designed by one of our fomer collegues, Brooke Christen, who worked with us for 17 years before moving across the country and starting Nesting With Grace. We love that she was able to be here and collaborate on this project! Her wallpaper is the perfect feature-wall finish!
BEDROOM 2
DESIGN TIP: Tone-on-Tone Millwork
A great way to accent a wall without overwhelming a smaller space is a tone-on-tone treatment. Here, we added thin millwork, which adds tremendous interest while maintaining an open feel.
BEDROOM 3
DESIGN TIP: Stained Poplar
It’s no secret that lumber is hard to come by right now. If you love the look of oak but are having a hard time getting your hands on it, try using poplar. It will save you money and stains beautifully. That’s what we did to create the accent wall in this room.
FROM OUR HEARTS
We mean it when we say we LOVE every design project we have the pleasure of working on, but this one will forever hold a special spot in our hearts. Being a part of this movement and working alongside brilliant women in construction and design is empowering and important. Plus, money raised on this home is being put towards creating more opportunities for females through scholarships and other financial support. Join us next week as we see the rest of this life-changing home and celebrate more gifted women and showcase their talents!
Tuesday May 25 2021 by Stacey Beyer
It’s no wonder window dressings are commonly referred to as “treatments.” If there’s an important player in a home that should be treated well, it’s the windows. That said, your treatment choices should accent your space and not act as focal points. Let’s remove the blind(s)fold and take a look at various treatment options and why they work well.
WHY WINDOW TREATMENTS?
Whether your window treatments are strictly decorative or serve a functioning purpose, they bring the benefits. Check out these window-treatment pros:
WINDOW TREATMENT PLACEMENT
As a general rule of thumb, it’s smart to place curtain rods close to the ceiling, as it makes the room appear larger. We also advise extending the length of your rod beyond your window so your panels can sit past the opening and not in front of it. This will make your window look better and maximize light flow. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule, including these golden guidelines. It’s why we encourage you to consult one of our team members at The Black Goose Design when choosing window treatments and placing hardware.
Speaking of hardware, it’s not as simple has hanging a curtain from a rod. Your hardware options vary depending on the purpose and type of treatment you’re adding. Let’s take a closer look at one of our go-to rod options…
TALKING TRAVERSE RODS
Traverse curtain rods use an internal track and slide system and clips or curtain pins to pull curtains/panels open and shut. They’re ideal for:
WHEN IN ROME…
…Do as the roman shades do. At The Black Goose Design, we’re big fans of this low-profile option. It’s ideal for spots with limited surrounding wall space, such as kitchen and bathroom windows, as well as windows that share real estate with surrounding furnishings (bed, sofa, table, etc.).
THINK BEYOND THE WINDOW
Why should walled windows have all the fun? Don't forget to dress those doors! Contact one of our designers to discuss your door design ideas.
WINDOW WISDOME
Let’s close the window on this conversation by reiterating our top treatment tip — draperies and dressings of all kinds should serve to enhance your overall space, not steal the show. Don’t be shy if you’re feeling stuck or unsure. We’re here to enhance your window wisdom and help you come up with the perfect treatment plan for your home. Stop by, call, or even reach out via DM on Instagram.
Wednesday May 12 2021 by Stacey Beyer
At The Black Goose Design, it's no secret we like talking trends. Part of being good at our jobs is knowing what styles are in, what’s coming our way, and what's cycling out. That said, we’d like to take this opportunity for a little PSA, if you will.
Take this year’s Pantone colors — sunny yellow (Illuminating) and Ultimate Gray. While this is a classic combination, it isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay! Love blue? Decorate in blue! All about vibrant colors and strong prints? Embrace the bold!
After all, how boring would life be if we were all doing the same thing? In the spirit of such variety, let’s take a look at a few looks we love right now that aren’t necessarily on any expert’s hip list but remain gorgeous nonetheless!
NEUTRAL BASE WITH COLOR POP
Starting with a neutral foundation is a great way to incorporate color, because you can easily swap those colors out as your interests and seasons change.
USING BLUE AS A NEUTRAL
Blue seems to be the superhero of the color community, as it can pop as an accent color AND also step in as a neutral. Check out how it plays that neutral role beautifully here!
EMBRACE THE BOLD
Scrolling Pinterest and Instagram, it’s clear neutrals are having their day (which we fully support!), but it’s not a one-or-the-other game. As much as we appreciate classic neutrals, we still get excited to see clients using bold colors and prints. They can add such energy and delight to a space.
image credit: Wesley Hall
Clearly, there’s plenty of room in the design sandbox for all styles. Stop worrying about the "shoulds" and "dont's" and simply embrace your own wonderful interests and tastes. It's key in creating a space you'll love for years to come! Perhaps you've started down this path but find yourself feeling a little stuck? That's what we're here for. We delight in getting to know you and, as part of that, understanding what speaks to you from a design point of view. Stop by so we can get the conversation started and help you put more YOU into your beautiful surroundings!
Tuesday Apr 27 2021 by Stacey Beyer
What happens when a group of driven, talented, smart women put their minds to something? Magic! The House That SHE Built is our proof!
What started out as an empty lot is transforming into a show-stopping home of one lucky family’s dreams in the Oakwood Homes Wander Community in Saratoga Springs, Utah.
It’s a project bringing together talented female professionals to complete every stage of the home-building process, from the moment the first plans were drafted to the day the last landscaping touch is completed.
On this fab female team — our very own Randi Smith and Denise Johnson from The Black Goose Design!
The House That SHE Built truly puts the heart in the art of homebuilding. The proceeds from the sale of this beautiful two-story home will continue to create opportunities for women, with support going to women-run businesses and charities, as well as a scholarship program.
“The scholarships will account for 60% of the total prof and will be awarded to women pursuing construction management related degrees and trade school programs.” –UtahPWB.com
WHY SHE
Such skilled trades as excavation, plumbing, and engineering (to name just a few) are often thought of as “a man’s world.” Of course, we know this to be false. Women are key players in every aspect of home building, but they ARE underrepresented. The House That SHE Built hopes to change that by creating more opportunities for females and shining a brighter light on these in-demand careers.
Plus, women bring unique and valuable perspective to home design, simply based on the fact that they can often see a home’s functionality and needs differently than their male counterparts.
“The home design is centered on functionality for a family, from a woman’s unique perspective. The design does an excellent job of providing for the individual needs of the family by incorporating elements such as a children’s play area downstairs and a serene master retreat, while also including opportunities for the family to gather together and create memories.” –UtahPWB.com
SHE is skilled. SHE is capable. SHE deserves every opportunity to share her gifts with the world as SHE makes it a better place. Nothing against the talented, hardworking fellas out there. We need them! They, of course, bring much to the table, too. This project is just a shining reminder that there’s room and need for all kinds, backgrounds, experiences, and genders in this (and every!) field!
TAKE A TOUR
Save the date! The House That SHE Built will be in the 2021 Utah Valley Parade of Homes. It’s your opportunity to see the grand unveiling and the stunning results of Randi and Denise’s labor of love. With the amount of time, effort, thought, determination, strength, and creativity we know went into every single stage of the home’s development, we know you’re in for an inspiring treat! In the meantime, you can learn more about this noteworthy endeavor on the Utah Professional Women in Building website.
YOU MAKE US PROUD
We’re so honored that The Black Goose Design was invited to be a part of this memorable experience. Our team beams with pride as we observe the work Denise and Randi are doing with the other brilliant minds on this project. And we aren’t the only ones recognizing their dedicated contributions. They were just featured on The House That SHE Built Instagram account (which is totally worth following, BTW!). See Denise’s spotlight here and click here to read what Randi had to say.
GET INVOLVED
The House That SHE Built is about more than building a home. It’s about building up women in the field of construction, where they’re currently severely underrepresented. Show your support through a financial contribution or submit a quick note on their website if you wish to be a part of it all
“We are always looking to add to our team and network of contributors for The House That SHE Built!” –UtahPWB.com
Our hardhats are off to all who are involved with The House That SHE Built. We can’t wait to see the end product at the Utah Valley Parade of Home this May 2021. We hope to see you there!
Wednesday Mar 24 2021 by Stacey Beyer
Ah ha! Like the flip of a switch, new lighting easily updates any home. After a year spent indoors, it’s only natural to desire a breath of fresh air. Unlike bigger cosmetic changes, such as paint and flooring, lighting changes can be completed quickly. Plus, we're having our popular Spring Sale event at The Black Goose Design, making now the bright time to make such updates!
Seven Lighting Tips to Update Your Home
BRIGHT IDEA #1: Set YOUR Tone
Both indoors and out, your main entry lighting is important. For its function, of course, but also because it communicates your style to your guests before they’ve even set foot inside.
TIP: Chandeliers are a common choice in this space, but it depends on the amount of room you have. Our team at The Black Goose Design can help you figure out the best size and style for your home.
BRIGHT IDEA #2: Light Attracts Light
Think about where your family gathers. How is the lighting in those areas? If you plan on updating your home’s lighting in stages, communal spots are a natural first choice.
TIP: For your dining space, select a fixture that complements your table. If you have a long table, consider a longer option. If your table is round, on the other hand, and the area surrounding it is limited, a more compact choice, such as a striking drum, makes sense.
BRIGHT IDEA #3: Mood Matters
From bulb tone (warm vs. cool) and intensity to the style of your fixture, lighting choices will vary from room to room and area to area of your home. The master bedroom is a wonderful example. Being where you go to unwind, warm light is a calming choice. For your fixture, opt for something that supports the overall look of your space. This chandelier, for example, is understated and romantic in its design, which goes beautifully with the neutral color scheme and soft florals.
TIP: Ceiling height plays a part, but please don’t feel as if you’re out of luck if your ceilings aren’t vaulted. The Black Goose Design has pieces for all floorplans.
TAKE NOTE: We love lights with a temperature of 2700-3000 Kelvin!
BRIGHT IDEA #4: Add Wall Wow
Wall sconces are an on-trend choice that will immediately up the class and sophistication of your space. Of course, the added light they introduce is always nice! And being on the wall (or even the mirror!), they free up table and counter space -- another sconce score!
TIP: Consider your power source. If your sconce needs to be plugged in, there’s the chance you’ll have unsightly cords to contend with. Fortunately, with the help of an electrician, sconces can be hardwired, which means they don't have to be plugged in. If you don't want to cut your wall, however, you can can strategically hide your cords to keep your space looking sleek.
BRIGHT IDEA #5: Enhance the Details
Shelf lighting brings in yet another light source without the need for any major electrical updates. At The Black Goose Design, we have numerous cabinets and display pieces available with built-in lighting, as well as options with lighting attached. This allows you to up the ambiance while giving your precious photos and keepsakes the spotlight they deserve.
TIP: You can also add lighting to existing furniture. Ask our designers how this simple trick is done.
BRIGHT IDEA #6: Consider Closets
While your closet might not be the first spot you consider when making lighting selections, it shouldn’t be overlooked. Besides furthering the overall style of your home, it also serves an important role. After all, this is where you go to glow. It's important to see your style choices in full brilliance.
TIP: Even the closet is worthy of an overhead wow, but it’s the lights IN the cabinets that are the real show stoppers. Add these touches and your accessories will really sparkle!
BRIGHT IDEA #7: Play with Pattern
Why have one fixture when you can add three? Fill the space in larger rooms with smaller repeating fixtures, such as pendant lighting.
TIP: Hanging multiple pendant lights above a kitchen counter is common, but this patterned approach also looks great in entry ways, halls, game rooms, and even outdoor living areas.
Yes, if you want your home’s design to really shine, lighting is an important factor. Stop by during our Spring Sale and discover how to give your home a brilliant update. Bring pics of your space, inspiration you love, and questions you have, and our team at The Black Goose Design will help you find your ideal illumination.
Wednesday Mar 10 2021 by Stacey Beyer
Working with a designer at the design phase of a project? Seems like a no-brainer, right? Not always! Especially in the age of Pinterest and Insta, it’s common to take the “I’ve got this” approach. And more power to you if you do! The problem is, what can look like a fun and easy endeavor on Pinterest boards is actually a much bigger puzzle to piece where new builds and renovations are concerned. After all, it’s about creating a cohesive feel throughout. More importantly, it’s about creating a space that realistically meets your needs and serves your unique family flawlessly. That’s a tall order for even the savviest of screen scrollers. Hiring an interior designer can be the best investment in your project. It’s the wise move to make, and our team at The Black Goose Design is here to share seven reasons why.
WHY WORK WITH A DESIGNER: THE DESIGN PHASE
We’ve discussed the reasons why it’s smart to have a designer by your side during the construction stage of a new build or remodel. Now, let’s look at why it also makes sense at the fun decorating portion of the project.
1. IT’S A LOT
Simply put, this is a BIG undertaking. With years of combined schooling and experience, our team knows how to effectively scale such a task. More than that, we know how to prioritize and properly order the steps involved so we aren’t putting any carts before horses. We say nay to that kind of time waster! Having the ability to break the steps and decisions down might not seem like a big deal right now, but we assure you you’ll feel otherwise a few weeks into a solo project of this scale.
2. IT’S PERSONAL
Okay, so it might seem counterintuitive to advise hiring help to make your design process MORE personal. But knowing YOU and your needs are always our first priorities. We know the questions to ask and conversations to have to get us to your ideal outcome. In other words, we’ll take your most-loved Pins and translate them it into YOUR home, with your unique flair and fabulousness.
3. IT’S EDUCATED
We don’t make random purchases here and there. We KNOW product. We know what sofas stand up to children and pets. We know what coffee table shape fits best in a specific room footprint. We know what table will serve both as your everyday dining and a place to host Thanksgiving dinner. We begin by knowing you and your vision for your home (see #2), and we combine that with our extensive product knowledge to get you THE BEST selection of pieces for your day-to-day living.
4. IT’S FINISHED
Do you have those spots in your home that just don’t feel quite right and you can’t put your finger on why? Totally normal! This is another area where we come in to lend our know-how. Sooo… you’ve got the sofa table… now what? We can tell you, again based on ideas that are both practical and pretty. (Sorry, fancy vase, you simply aren’t two-year-old friendly. But here’s another awesome option that is! You know… as a ‘for instance.’)
Remember, design doesn’t stop at furniture. Accessorizing is all about striking balance. Comparing it to fashion, each decorative pillow and piece of wall art is like jewelry for your room. When done well, it creates the perfect finishing detail. Alas, when done poorly, it can detract from all of your hard work and become an eyesore.
5. IT’S PERSONAL (part 2)
Okay, so we already said this, but let’s take personalizing to the next level. Beyond function that works for you, we’re talking detail. The sentimental pieces, the photos, your children’s artwork… all of the amazing details that make a house a home. We know how to blend that love layer with new pieces to create a fresh, balanced outcome that is very much YOU.
6. IT’S A COST (and headache) SAVINGS
Rather than guess at pieces and go through the process of ordering online, only to have to then return, we can bring many of the samples to you. From color swatches to actual accessory samples, we can try accents on for size, so you can keep only what captures your heart. It takes shipping costs and return fiascos out of the picture. Plus, it allows you to compare selections in a real-life way, which makes a HUGE difference in finding your look.
7. IT’S COHESIVE
Going back to our jewelry analogy, creating a beautiful room is like putting together an outfit. You don’t want to wear all of your favorite things at once. They simply won’t go together. With home décor, we can help you select only the items that will work well together and create a stunning overall look. Suffering from decision fatigue? We get it! Often, it just takes a second set of eyes to make such decisions. On a larger scale, we’ll help you create a beautiful room that complements another beautiful room and another and… well, you get where we’re going with this. We’ll help you create a consistent tone and feel throughout your home. An entire experience, if you will, and an experience you and your lucky guests will LOVE!
There it is, friends — seven+ reasons why working with a designer at the design phase of a project is a GREAT idea. Of course, we hope that designer is a member of The Black Goose Design team. We delight in learning about you and turning your hopes and dreams into reality, whether you’re making over a room or creating from the blank canvas of a new home. Stop by or give us a call to discuss how we can come together and make your plans happen.
Wednesday Feb 24 2021 by Stacey Beyer
It’s a common misconception that designers come into the building/remodeling phase when it’s time to pick furniture and add decorative touches. Truth is, it’s even more important to have dedicated design assistance at the construction stage. After all, the last thing anyone wants to do is spend all of the money and time on a new build or remodel, only to find they aren’t in love with the outcome. So sad! Our team at The Black Goose Design is trained to know YOU and your unique wants and needs. We’re able to see every detail, even before a space has actual walls to adorn. Let’s look at six reasons why working with a designer at the construction phase of the process is key.
WHY WORK WITH A DESIGNER: THE CONSTRUCTION PHASE
1. SAVE MONEY & SPEND WISELY
Enough said, right? Some feel it costs MORE money to hire a designer, when it can actually be a big cost savings. Having a designer involved as you select structural and cosmetic details will have you making confident decisions, so you can avoid buying the wrong things and/or those nasty change fees later on in the building process, as you realize something isn’t working. This is a very common (and understandable!) pitfall when building without a trained eye in your corner.
2. EXPERIENCE & EXPERTISE
As some would say, this isn’t our first rodeo. Giddy up! Where you’re not likely going to have much experience building and remodeling homes, we've spent years refining our technical skills through schooling and hands-on training. We know what questions to ask, what's trendy vs. timeless, what mistakes to avoid, and what must-have features to add.
3. ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS FOR Y-O-U
A BIG part of any designer’s process is getting to know you. What is YOUR vision? What do you want out of your home? As funny as this sounds, a good designer often knows more about what you’ll want than you do. At least initially. Because of that, we help ensure you’re adding details to your plans that will best serve you in the long run. Need a table that seats 12? We can make sure your dining area will accommodate. Want a sofa table with lamps? We know to incorporate floor outlets into your space and where to put them. Want natural lighting to hit just right? We’re all about window placement pointers! And the list goes on!
4. NARROW DOWN THE SEA OF CHOICES
People often want to choose paint first. Reality is, you should first identify any must-have elements that can't/shouldn't change. Perhaps there's only ONE rug you love, one tile that makes your heart sing, or one perfect sofa/chair fabric combination. These details should lead the way, with paint selections to follow. This allows you to choose shades that enhance your must-haves. With more than 900 shades of paint, it's far easier to adapt your paint to fit your finishing details. Of couse, this also brings up the fact that there are 900+ colors. Yowza! Don't worry, we know how to narrow that massive swatch book down to your perfect pairings.
5. CATCH THE VISION
As designers, we have the tools needed to bring plans on a spreadsheet to life. By creating samples, pulling swatches, and designing room renderings, we can turn data and lines into a first look at your new home. And who doesn’t want to see what their space could look like BEFORE making big decisions?!
(Okay, we confess: Designers are part wizard.)
6. GOOOO… TEAM!
We work with many excellent custome home builders. Being on the building team in this way is a role we thrive in. It's our joy and pleasure to serve as a voice between the builder and you, the amazing homeowner, to achieve the best results for all involved.
Ready to get to work? So are we! Call or stop by The Black Goose Design today to explore your options and get your design bestie by your side. Together, we’ll turn what's often an overwhelming process into an experience that’s fun and beyond rewarding!
Wednesday Feb 10 2021 by Stacey Beyer
Sure, Valentine's Day is near, but it's spring design trends that have the hearts in our eyes. BEAUTIFUL new looks are coming to The Black Goose Design. From fresh trends and dreamy textiles to chic new furniture styles and design motifs, now’s a great time to breathe some new life into your space. All of the eye candy you’re about to see will be available at The Black Goose Design in the coming weeks, with some of it already in. Woot! Enjoy this look at styles we're crushing on right now.
ROLLING IN THE DEEP
Gone are the days of white on white on white. We're happy to see the pendulum swinging in the opposite direction, introducing striking contrast with dark statement pieces like these show stoppers from Gabby:
It's official, we're "leg" people. How can anyone not be with shapely gams like the ones on this chic console?
Hmmm... Maybe we're leg AND feet people. After all, this cabinet's cute feet are impossible to resist.
While the previous pieces are arriving in the weeks ahead (something awesome to look forward to!), we just got this attractive coffee table in. Yay! It's a must-see. Stop by our showroom and pay it a visit. You'll be glad you did.
Our friends at Noir are also embracing this divine design trend. The dark finish on this classic sideboard creates a vibe we certainly aren't mad at. ;)
TREAT YOURSELF TO TEXTURE
Who says texture has to come exclusively from textiiles, flooring, and wall treatments? These pieces from Hooker Furniture give us all the feels. The modern design is taken to the next level by the linen finish. And the warm neutral color means these pieces will complement a number of colors and design preferences.
TEXTILE TRENDS
Whether you’re selecting fabric for a new sofa or chair or you simply want the refreshing pop new pillows provide, these are some of the 2021 textile trends to note:
GEOMETRICS
Wesley Hall takes those straight lines for a curve with these unique geometric prints:
Lee Industries is also embracing geometric gold with these new prints:
NATURE-INSPIRED
We're really feeling this spring fling now, thanks to these outdoor-inspired works of art by Wesley Hall. Which upholstery swatch is calling your name?
TAKE A SEAT
You’re going to want to sit down for this one. Just look at these NEW beauties by Welsey Hall! They make any excuse to sit impossible to resist.
Meet the Milbrook (above) and his curvey counterpart, Tulip (below). They'll both be in our showroom very soon.
Oh my… SO MANY good things to look forward to as the seasons change. Which looks are you loving? Flag your favorites and come see us at The Black Goose Design soon to start your spring refresh.
Cheers!
Wednesday Jan 27 2021 by Stacey Beyer
Grab the welcome mat; we have a new team member. Madison Johnson is the latest designer to join The Black Goose Design. She recently moved to Utah from Michigan, where she worked as a designer for several years. Up until her move, much of her design focus was on the foundation-level details (paint, flooring, lighting, etc.). She now enjoys taking the process even further with the finishing details we offer.
“I’m excited to add the staging and furniture aspects of design to what I do,” Madison said. “Whether I help clients with just the finer details or we start from the ground and work our way up, it’s already proving to be very fun work.”
Beyond her professional work in design, Madison has a personal attachment that adds to her background and know-how.
“As I child, I was that kid who was constantly rearranging my room,” Madison laughed. “I come from a family of designers, so my parents always supported my creativity. In fact, we now work together flipping homes. The start-to-finish process of turning a run-down house into a gorgeous home has taught me so much. I know the experience makes me better at my day job.”
Q&A WITH MADISON
We asked Madison a few questions to get to know her even better. Take a look!
Q. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ROOM/AREA TO DESIGN AND WHY?
A. The entry of the home. Even though it’s the first room most guests see, it’s often overlooked or a design afterthought. I like putting the focus on this space. it’s where guests are first introduced to the personality of the home and those living in it, so you want it done right. Setting an intentional tone in the entry is important.
Q. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL DESIGN STYLE?
A. It gravitates towards modern, but with soft accents thrown in. I like the way warm tones add a relaxed feel to a modern home. Of course, the beauty of being a designer is that you get to experience all sorts of styles and tastes. It keeps things interesting and makes the work that much more rewarding.
Q. WHAT DESIGN TREND(S) DO YOU SEE FOR 2021?
A. Softer tones and natural elements that complement modern design schemes are big. For example, champagne, which is a softer take on metallics/neutrals, will make its debut.
Q. DO YOU HAVE A GO-TO TIP OR DESIGN STRATEGY?
A. As you begin a re-design, it helps to start with a central item. A piece of art or favorite pillow can help you make unified decisions throughout the home. Starting with a key piece makes it easier to make color choices, pull fabrics, and find the right furniture. It also helps your designer get to know your personality better.
Q. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE STAGE IN THE DESIGN PROCESS?
A. Every stage has something wonderful to offer, but I’d have to say the reveal is the sugar on top. Seeing the client’s reaction when it all comes together is magical. It’s like all of the dots have finally been connected.
Q. WHAT CAN CLIENTS EXPECT WHEN WORKING WITH YOU?
A. I always do a 3D rendering for my clients. The visual representation helps us picture various outcomes so clients can be confident in the decisions they’re making. I put a great deal of effort into communicating ideas to ensure we’re on the same page with things every step of the way.
Something that’s been helpful lately is my ability to work with a client remotely. With enough input, I can do a great deal virtually, which clients have appreciated since COVID happened.
BEFORE & AFTER TRANSFORMATIONS
Before-and-afters are always fun to see. Check out these dramatic transformations from Madison's portfolio:
before: kitchen
after: kitchen
before: bath
after: bath
before: entry
after: entry
Whether you want to work with Madison from afar or come in to The Black Goose Design to get to know her better, she’d love to help you create a space you adore.
Wednesday Jan 13 2021 by Stacey Beyer
Now that the New Year's Eve champagne cork has popped, it's time to celebrate color pop. Add a fresh feel to your home with a new coat of paint in any of the inviting 2021 on-trend shades. To get you inspired, our team at The Black Goose Design is here with our favorites.
2021 HUE NEWS WITH DEL REANNE LUCAS: Welcome back, warmth!
So glad to see the really warm tones coming back for 2021! Muted golds, greens, and clay colors are the newest accents. Combining these with warm creams, tans, and grays will create some interesting moods. From totally renovating to just replacing accents with the new palette, it should be a fun endeavor! Try a bit of paint or some new accessories to get you started.
Even the temperature of the grays has gone up.
The trick is blending what you currently have with the fresh palette and make it look on purpose! Our interior design team is ready to help you do just that!
2021 HUE NEWS WITH RANDI SMITH: Add Sparkle; Enhance Detail
I love a jewel box room at the front of the home. It could be a formal living room, music room, or office. We made a long room feel cozy at our Federal Heights Remodel by using Knoxville Gray by Benjamin Moore.
I love a pop of color on the mill work. It gives a room depth and character. In our Federal Heights remodel, we used Woodlawn Blue by Benjamin Moore.
With the tall ceilings and dramatic angles at our #MilesfromthePost home in Big Cottonwood Canyon, we decided to paint both the walls and celiings in the same color. We had a few wood accent walls. The rest of the walls and ceilings were painted in Colonnade Gray by Sherwin Williams.
2021 HUE NEWS WITH DENISE JOHNSON: Going Green; Embracing Monochrome
I’m loving the pops of green! I recently used Rosemary by Sherwin Williams for a client’s island and built-in breakfast nook. It creates a very inviting feel.
We also refreshed the client’s railing by painting her null posts in black (Caviar by Sherwin Williams) and white (Alabaster by Sherwin Williams). Black is ALWAYS a favorite neutral!
2021 HUE NEWS WITH MONICA WOODLAND: Bring On Blue
Color is back! One of my current favs is Wall Street by Sherwin Williams, which is a versatile blue-grey color that pairs beautifully with a warm white. For a moodier look, go all out and paint the trim work in this rich shade.
image credit: Sherwin Williams
2021 HUE NEWS WITH MADISON JOHNSON: Gaga for Green
I’m drawn to green kitchen accents. Give it a try on your cabinets or the island.
Some soft greens I adore are:
Dark green cabinets with gold or champagne hardware are always a crowd favorite!
For interior paint in larger, open spaces, I see the trend going toward softer neutrals. The gray phase is mellowing out, and I think off whites will be coming back.A couple to take note of are:
Swoon! Who’s excited to warm things up in 2021? Even if you’re not ready to commit to paint, you can take your first steps by adding warmer accents (decorative pillows, florals/containers, wall art, area rugs, etc.). Stop by The Black Goose Design any time (Mon.-Sat.) to chat trends and see what we have in store.
Happy New Year!
Thursday Nov 12 2020 by Stacey Beyer
Welcome to another meet-and-greet. Today, we’re joined by Del Reanne Lucas Wilson. She brings 35+ years of professional design experience to The Black Goose Design, including two years as a senior designer at our sister store, Down to Earth at Gardner Village. Del Reanne is a creative who believes beautiful interiors have the power to transform daily life. With an eye for quality, a superior sense for style, and a client-centered approach to her work, she’s a strong addition to our team.
Del Reanne has two rules she always follows when working on projects: 1. Her clients must love the experience and outcome; and 2. Everyone involved must have fun!
We’re confident you’ll have fun getting to know more about this talented lady. Read on to see samples from her impressive portfolio and pick up some design tips along the way.
Quick Q&A With Del Reanne
EXPLORING WITH DEL REANNE
Exploring possibilities can sometimes feel overwhelming. Fortunately, Del Reanne knows just what to do to ensure clients enjoy the experience and land on looks they’ll love.
“It’s my job to stretch each client so they know where they’re comfortable. If I show them all the same concepts within a single genre, it’s not stretching them. I would hate for them to see something after a project is complete and ask why I didn’t share it with them, so I ensure our options are all explored. It’s how I hone in and get clients extremely comfortable. After all, you can’t appreciate one style fully if you haven’t seen its counter. I believe in being thorough and exploring to the fullest to ensure every client is 100% confident in the choices they’ve made.”
PORTFOLIO PIECES
Let's take a closer look at some of Del Reanne's work.
BEFORE & AFTER TRANSFORMATIONS
As these impressive transformations show, Del Reanne can take you from start to gorgeous finish, whether you’re building a new home or simply want to update your current place.
“Before we began this process, the homeowners were pretty sure they needed to buy a new home or build,” Del Reanne explained. “It’s amazing seeing what kind of transformation can happen within your existing space, no matter how dated.”
PHOENIX, AZ RESIDENCE
Isn’t this a show-stopper? Del Reanne worked on it in Phoenix several years ago, proving she’s ahead of the curve where trends are concerned.
PARADE OF HOMES
Del Reanne worked with the team at Down to Earth on a 2019 Parade of Homes residence, but her role extended beyond design. She acted as a liaison between the stylists and the builder. It’s a task her depth of experience prepared her for, as she’s worked with every facet of the design process over the years. While this was the first Parade for Down to Earth, it was the sixth for her, so she knew what to expect and helped guide her team to this striking and well-received outcome.
Of course, we’re honored to work alongside someone with such talent and experience, Del Reanne, but it's your personality and heart that really close the deal. You're a special part of our team, and we’re so glad you're here!
No project is too big or too small for Del Reanne or any of our team members at The Black Goose Design. Stop in and see how we can fit into your next design endeavor.
Thursday Nov 5 2020 by Stacey Beyer
Hello! Please join us in welcoming Monica Woodland to The Black Goose Design.
Monica has a long history with The Black Goose Design. She’s been a loyal customer for 20 years and in her 10+ years of design work with two different firms, she often came to us for furniture and decor to complete many of her clients' projects.
“Even though I’ve only been an employee here since August, it already feels like home.” Monica said. “I think some of that comes from the many years I’ve spent shopping here, but it’s also about our team. They already feel like my extended family.”
The path leading Monica to our family is a special one, involving her own family. We’ll let her tell you about it:
“It started when my father passed away,” Monica said. “For as heartbreaking as that was, it also offered clarity. In April, I was furloughed due to the COVID pandemic shutdown, which gave me time to think about fulfilling my purpose. As much as I liked my previous employer, I knew I needed to seek a new job with a different firm. That's when I stumbled upon The Black Goose Design listing. The way things just sort of fell into place, I knew my dad was opening doors for me. Now I can continue doing the work I adore and know I am supposed to be doing. Losing a loved one was a poignant reminder that life is short and I needed to take a leap of faith and join The Black Goose Design team."
We love when life paths so perfectly align. Many who work for The Black Goose Design have known Monica for years as a valued client. To now have her on our team is such a gift!
Q&A with Monica
Q. What is your favorite aspect of design?
A. Color and textiles. A little pop of color goes a long way. Right now, I’m preparing a color scheme for a client that’s made up of blues. By adding just a hint of kiwi, it really brings it all together. I’ll even dress this way sometimes… like an all-black outfit but with pink shoes. Just the smallest amount of a second color can really add energy to a room, an outfit… anything.
Q. What is your favorite space to design and why?
A. I love working on kitchens and family rooms, because those are the areas where families create so many of their memories. It’s where holidays are spent and where people come together.
Q. What is your go-to design tip or advice?
A. Home should feel welcoming… a place where people can come in and relax. Creating that kind of feeling is always my goal.
Thank you, Monica. You already bring so much wisdom and warmth to The Black Goose Design. We’re so grateful our long history with you turned into having you on our in-house team.
With the holidays around the corner, now's a great time to add welcoming touches to your home. If you’d like to sit down with Monica or any of our team members to discuss your options and ideas, stop in or give us a call.
DESIGN BOARDS BY MONICA
We'll leave you with a few of Monica's latest design boards she's created for clients since joining us. As they show, this talented lady has a gift when it comes to getting the most out of a space and bringing a fresh feel to any project she works on.
Thursday Oct 22 2020 by Stacey Beyer
Who says a home can’t be sophisticated and cozy at the same time? This remarkable new residence (and recent The Black Goose Design project) in Riverton, Utah, is proof that you can have the best of both worlds — a place that’s as stunning as it is inviting. Come inside; we’ll take a look around!
Nothing says “inviting” quite like a roaring fire. Having this fab fireplace be the first thing to greet you upon entering sets a warm tone in more ways than one.
The warmth continues around the corner, with furniture and accents in rich, fall hues.
“Fun” is another adjective to add to the long list of words describing this home. It’s hard to beat a large game set at the ready, welcoming players to sit for a bit and enjoy some screen-free entertainment.
DECORATING TIP: Make a statement with a large focal piece. This oversized chess board does more than add a great game option on rainy days. It adds decorative interest. Plus, because it’s all located on a single item (the game board), it’s easy to set out of the way when the ottoman is needed for kicking up those feet.
Rounding out the great room, the kitchen feels completely cohesive with its living room counterpart.
Look closely and you’ll see that this striking space is also loaded with decorating tips to apply in your home. Let’s discuss!
DECORATING TIP: Citrus often evokes feelings of summer sunshine, but citrus fruit is actually an excellent choice to use for pops of fall color. Pair them with more seasonally thought of items (gourds, mini pumpkins, etc.) for a fresh take on fall.
DECORATING TIP: Look beyond countertops. Adding interest to a kitchen doesn’t have to clutter those beautiful countertops. Think of other open space, such as the stovetop. Simply station your items on an easy-to-move surface, such as a tray or cutting board, and set the pretty display aside in one simple step when it comes time to cook.
DECORATING TIP: Lanterns often equal light, but don’t let that idea limit your creative potential. Fill lanterns with other items of interest, such as floral arrangements, fruit/veggies, seasonal décor, and more!
Ready for some major wow factor? This kitchen is keeping a little… errr… make that a BIG secret. Behind the far wall, a butler’s pantry is built in. Warning: Prepare yourself for some serious storage envy.
The rest of this remarkable residence is equally as stunning. Let’s go on a little room-by-room walk through, starting with the rest of the main floor.
MASTER SUITE
More like master sweet! You can’t help but feel a serious sense of calm as soon as you enter this space.
While the room is fairly neutral in color, it is alive in texture. The combination is on trend and beautiful!
The master bath follows the same lead, with various textures and an overall calm about it. Of course, can a soak in a freestanding tub like this leave you feeling any other way? So relaxing!
POWDER ROOM & LAUNDRY
Things to note in these essential spaces:
1. The stunning metallic wallpaper in the laundry room. When the light hits it just right, it really puts on a show.
2. The different flooring and how it works to add interest and movement to the space as a whole.
3. The cohesive vibe created using minimal accents, clean lines, and home-inspired décor items.
HOME OFFICE
Question: Would one really get any work done in this room, or would they be too distracted by its beauty and the view out those amazing, large windows to get anything done? What a sophisticated space to place those Zoom calls!
ENTRYWAY & STAIRS
Channeling The Dixie Chicks, we’re all about these wide-open spaces!
BASEMENT
Okay, let’s make our way downstairs, where this home continues to put on a show with its brilliant autumn ambiance, farmhouse charm, and overall warmth.
BEHIND THE DESIGN
See that blur in this photo? That's Denise, the design mind behind this gorgeous home. She was far too engulfed in the process and every gorgeous detail to pause for pictures. (Plus, she’s a tad camera shy.)
Christy, Tyson, and their children call this stunner home. We sat down with Christy to discuss her experience working on a design of this scale.
“I know what I like, but I sometimes have a difficult time with size and scale,” Christy said. “Denise is amazing; she can simply look at an area and know sizes and how things will and should fit within a space. That isn’t an easy thing to do!”
“We worked with Denise on every aspect of our home,” Christy continued. “She helped me design all the cabinets, pick out the floors… even the stone for the outside of the home. Having someone by my side throughout the process who truly understood the look we wanted made all of the decision making easier.”
We’re always curious about how our clients find us at The Black Goose Design, so we asked Christy that very question. This is what she had to say: “We went to a Parade of Homes before we started building. There was a home we loved and found out it was designed by The Black Goose. That’s how we knew exactly where we wanted to go.”
We worked with Denise from start to finish because we clicked right away.
QUICK Q&A WITH CHRISTY
Q: How would you describe your style?
A: Farmhouse style, for sure. I don’t want it to be like I own horses and live on the pumpkin patch. I’d be a poser. So minimal shiplap, not all distressed – a more modern take.
Q: What advice do you have for someone just entering into the design phase of a project or new build?
A: Patience is everything. It all takes longer than you think it will. Keep the big picture in mind. Eventually, you’ll be living in the space and loving it.
A (part 2): Also, don’t take it too seriously. Have fun with it. Trust your gut.
“Denise was great about reminding me of this when I’d feel conflicted or stuck on a decision,” Christy recalled. “’If you love something, just get it and we’ll make it work,’ she’d say. ‘If it speaks to you, you have to buy it and find your spot for it. Trust your gut.’ And that’s what I did. Now that the project is complete, I can see how she was absolutely right. The pieces all fit together beautifully and bring us joy. I’m so glad we followed our instincts.”
Q: What’s next?
A: Honestly? I keep stringing Denise along, because I don’t want it end. This entire experience has been so much fun, and I just love spending time with Denise.
Q: Based on your lovely previous answer, we think we know the answer to this one, but we’ll go ahead and ask it anyway. Would you recommend The Black Goose Design to a friend or neighbor?
A: Absolutely! We just loved working with the company. Everyone there who helped out did a great job. Of course, that goes double for Denise. We’re super happy with the way everything turned out!
Thanks so much for the tour of your incredible home, Christy and Tyson. The team at The Black Goose Design has loved going on this journey with you and couldn’t be happier for you now. For anyone reading this who’s about to enter into a design project, whether it’s an entire build or simply an update of a space within your home or business, we invite you to stop by or give us a call. Collaborating is our favorite! We hope to see you soon.
Thursday Jul 2 2020 by Stacey Beyer
Q. What do you get when you combine the scenic backdrop of Utah’s Wasatch Mountains with a style that epitomizes contemporary cool?
A. Mountain Modern Design
And Mountain Modern style is exactly what this stunning Park City residence embodies!
“When it comes to a Mountain Modern design, striking the right balance is crucial,” says Ali Thomson, The Black Goose Design lead designer on this home project. “You go too modern, and it feels like an art gallery. Not modern enough, and it says cabin.”
DODGE THE LODGE
With any client collaboration, our goal is always to begin by capturing the client’s dream for the look and feel of the home. Just because this divine dwelling sits at 6,000 ft. in elevation doesn't mean it needs to feel the least bit rustic.
“The homeowners had a very clear vision for their home,” Ali explained. “This is their primary residence, not a lodge, so we intentionally avoided commonly used mountain-inspired motifs. No skis on the ceiling. No moose head or pictures of buffalo on the walls. No wool blankets. But we did want to weave more subtle outdoor inspiration throughout, balanced with a blend of contemporary.”
While you won't find a buffalo on the wall, that's not to say you won't find other interesting animal influence here and there. ;)
NATURE NUTURES
Even in an amazingly modern home, it’s easy to bring the peace of the outdoors in. From plant placement and wood works to stone styling and metal marks, let’s check out a few of the many striking mountain-meets-modern touches found inside this home:
Before you’ve even set foot in this home, its style is made clear. The front door is a brilliant blend of mountain and modern.
“If this door were all black, it would have been way too cold and modern,” Ali noted. “By warming it up with a walnut stain, it creates the welcoming feel of home.”
Upon entering the home, the three lights above the entryway continue to bridge the mountain-to-modern gap. Find these and other wood/metal fixtures at The Black Goose Design.
It doesn’t get much more mountain than rock. The eye-catching rock surrounding the fireplace meets its modern counterpart at the ceiling, where the clean lines of the beams intersect.
ROCK ON!
The fireplace stone is actually part of the home’s structure, both inside and out. In fact, this house was designed by Upwall Design Architects, with the stonework being a key element. The architectural design of this floorplan is as technical as it is incredible. And to see the flawless way the construction team at Kent Construction brought such involved blueprints to life is remarkable. The Black Goose Design experts were thrilled to round out this design trio!
Whether you opt for real or artificial, potted plants are an on-trend way to bring the outdoors in. There isn’t a right or wrong in the number of plants you use. That has more to do with personal preference. But you do want to pay attention to your plant containers. To go modern, consider a concrete finish, hairpin legs, or other midcentury-inspired aesthetics.
TIP: If you’d love to go green but find your thumb doesn’t always cooperate where real plants are concerned, check out the gorgeous artificial fig and olive trees available now at The Black Goose Design.
WHY MOUNTAIN MODERN?
There’s nothing cool about this home… errr, by that, we mean nothing cold or uninviting. From a design standpoint, it’s all sorts of cool. It can be easy to go too modern with design, creating a harshness that is anything but inviting. By working in the natural influences of the home’s mountain locale, it creates a welcoming warmth that’s undeniable. Even with all its cool sophistication, it feels like a home you can rest and relax in with the ones you love. Doesn’t get much better than that.
LET’S TALK TAKEAWAYS
Now that we’re rock solid on what Mountain Modern is all about, let’s look at several tips to note as you consider your next design project or home update.
The easiest way to design a home is to first select a key inspiration point to take the lead on all remaining choices. In the case of this casa, that element was the incredible stonework. Because it incorporates a plethora of amazing neutrals, it acted as a color coach for everything else.
“You should have seen us as carrying huge pieces of rock with as we shopped for every home detail,” Ali laughed. “We’d walk into fine showrooms and unearth this slab of stone from a big, beat-up bag, covered in debris, all to ensure we were selecting the perfect paint, carpet, and wood finishes.”
Did you know The Black Goose Design can order handcrafted, 100% custom furniture pieces for your home? This dining set, for example, was handmade by Amish crafters at Fusion Dining. No production line here. Everything from the stain, the wood used, the shape, and even the apron (beveled edge) were hand selected by the homeowners. Fabric was also selected and sent to Fusion Dining for the chairs. The rug that ties it all together is available at The Black Goose Design. What does the dining room of your dreams look like? We want to make it your reality!
Up your seating with a thin console table behind your sofa. Besides added seats, you’ll find it’s a great place for kids and adults alike to craft, snack, play games, do homework, and so much more.
Sofa, console table, and bar stools: The Black Goose Design
Why should the kitchen have all the fun? Tile the space surrounding a soaker tub to create a sleek bath backsplash (bathsplash?).
Bath and kitchen tile: Venetian Tile & Stone Gallery
Bench and accessories: The Black Goose Design
Of course, the kitchen tile isn't to be ignored. It's equally as elegant and also from Venetian Tile & Stone Gallery.
Free up valuable nightstand space with wall sconces or hanging pendants.
Pendant lights: Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallary
Speaking of lighting, take a look at these lights, which hang above the kitchen counter. They're definitely modern in design, while they almost have a mountain look to them with their fun shape and all. Cute!
Same is true with these darling bathroom pendants.
One of these things is not like the other. That’s right, there’s a lone black pillow on an otherwise light, neutral sofa. You might say the sleek black decorative pillow is the splash of modern mixed in with a mountain of nature-inspired neutrals. Don’t be afraid to mix and match your decorative pillows, including both asymmetrical placement and color selection.
Decorative pillows: The Black Goose Design
You'll notice an asymmetrical placement with the pillows on this bed. It's a subtle touch that adds interest.
A FEW MORE BEFORE WE GO
This guided hike through Mountain Modern at its best has yet to peak. Let’s take in a few final scenic shots of our sophisticated surroundings.
For help turning the home of your dreams into the home of your reality, whether it’s a new build or a update to an existing one, call or stop by The Black Goose Design today.
Thursday Apr 9 2020 by Stacey Beyer
Just what is a Powderbird, anyway? No, it’s not some rare feathered species. It’s actually an unforgettable heli-skiing (helicopter skiing) experience offered right here in Utah. Skiers and snowboarders come from all over the world to be carried via helicopter to backcountry mountain peaks, where they’re then left to cruise down its slopes. Unfortunately, for as unusual and awesome as this experience is, it’s home-base facility didn’t have that same wow factor. Here’s a look at what the Powderbird lodge looked like before its remodel.
With its green, rubber flooring, the acoustical ceiling, and stark, white walls, the words “school cafeteria” come to mind. Nothing about the space suggested “once in a lifetime skiing experience.”
TIME FOR A REMODEL
The last time this space was updated was back in 1995. The Powderbird team wanted a fresh look — one that would accurately reflect the impressive experience they offer. Randi Smith, one of our expert designers at The Black Goose Design, was delighted to step in and help this bird soar into 2020 on a high note.
Jessika Long, who works for Powderbird and headed up this design project on their end, actually has a special connection to The Black Goose Design.
“I worked for The Black Goose Design for a year before taking on my role at Powderbird,” Jessika said. “So when this project came up, I was super excited to go back to design, which I love, and work with my talented friends again!”
Even with her design background, Jessika understood the importance of having a partner to work on this project with.
“It was nice to have a hand to hold,” Jessika said. “Having Randi on the project as a consultant reinforced the decisions I was making. With her, I knew it was all coming together and was going to look good, even when we were far from finished.”
A good design experience is always about collaboration. For as much as Jessika appreciated Randi’s help, Randi loved being a part of the Powderbird team with Jessika and the many others who were involved with the remodel.
“I loved working with Jessika and the team at GV Construction,” Randi said. “Jessika was my intern a few years ago and then a designer at The Black Goose Design. Some of our past projects include work together on the phase-one remodel of Archibald's Restaurant, designing for a 2018 Parade of Homes house, and the remodel of Jessika’s parents' home. The team at GV Construction and I have also done several commercial projects together. Previous experiences as a group is never a requirement when starting a project together, but it sure doesn’t hurt. Because we’ve worked together before, it was easy to pick up and begin working together to achieve a beautiful goal on this project.”
YOU ALWAYS HAVE OPTIONS
Whether you’re looking for someone to lean on completely or you simply want a sounding board to offer advice in a consultation or two, The Black Goose Design team is ready to support you and your project.
“When I couldn’t find the last few pieces I needed to complete our remodel, Randi gave great recommendations and feedback,” Jessika said. “She also had smart suggestions for the stone used on the fireplace and backsplash. She even helped me measure the entire space to make sure things would fit properly before purchasing anything. Having Randi available throughout this process was such an asset. Whenever I found myself stuck, I could count on her to provide the missing piece. And from a budget perspective, it was wonderful to be able to pay for design consults here and there as needed vs. hiring a full-time designer.”
QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP
At The Black Goose Design, we recognize the unique needs businesses have when it comes to furniture. Clients often want their pieces to have the comfort and sophistication of home but also be able to withstand business traffic. It’s why we carry top-grade manufacturers, known as much for their style as they are for their quality and craftsmanship.
“We have clients coming in and out with big, bulky equipment,” Jessika said. “We knew we needed furniture pieces that could take a good beating and still look good. We found several furniture options that would withstand such use at The Black Goose Design. We ended going with Wesley Hall Furniture. We chose fabric from Sunbrella, which holds its pigment very well… perfect for sitting in our really big windows, where it gets plenty of sun. The fabric also protects against water damage, which is important. Of course, for as durable as it all is, it’s equally gorgeous!”
Even if you don’t have a business to furnish, quality furniture that's made to last makes a difference. We carry pieces that stand up to children and grandchildren, house guests and renters, pets, and nearly any other challenge you might want to throw at it. The same is true for dining room pieces.
“At Powderbird, we serve our guests two meals a day,” Jessika added. “This means a lot of wear and tear on the dining furniture as well. I knew The Black Goose Design carried Hooker Furniture, which is really well known for its extremely high-quality wood pieces. With our guests eating in their ski boots, such durability was important to us, and we just love the sophisticated look these pieces add!”
“Jessika had a very clear vision of how she wanted the space to function when the remodel was complete,” Randi recalled. “She wanted high-end luxury, but also somewhere where you could stomp about covered in snow. And that’s just what we were able to achieve.”
CUSTOM MADE TO MATCH YOUR NEEDS
Whether you’re updating your home or business, The Black Goose Design will help you add your signature style to everything you do.
“It was really fun selecting the fabric and finishing touches,” Jessika recalled. “With so many options to choose from, we were able to select textiles that complement the cabinetry, backsplash, granite, etc. It really allows you to pick pieces that fit your surroundings!”
BUSINESS BENEFITS
Sometimes it takes a business to help a business. Commercial spaces present their own unique challenges and requirements. Our team is well versed in what those needs are and how we can best help you meet them to ensure a successful outcome.
“In designing this space, we had many regulations to follow,” Jessika recalled. “We had to meet specific ADA standards and codes.It’s a different realm of functionality than designing for a home. This is another reason I was glad to have a designer to collaborate with. Randi was a huge help in many different areas. She really does understand the importance of staying on schedule, working with contractors, and designing for a commercial space.”
AT LAST, A TRUE REFLECTION
“The views at Powderbird, which face down Little Cottonwood Canyon, are phenomenal,” Jessika added. “I love that we now have a facility that matches those views in its beauty. And everything functions so much better now.”
“Jessika and I walked the space early on in the process, discussing the layout and how the space should function,” Randi added. “Since it would be used for breakfast during the day and a second meal after the heli-skiing adventure concluded, we knew we needed to make the most of the seating availability while also leaving enough open space for clients to freely and comfortably move about. The solution we came up with is the live-edge seating along the west wall of windows, which ended up being my favorite thing about this remodel. It gives guests room to dine comfortably while also experiencing the unbelievable view of Little Cottonwood Canyon down to the Salt Lake Valley. Talk about a room with a view!”
THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING
When we asked Jessika what her employer thought of the remodel, she had this to say:
“They were thrilled! They said this update changes everything in the way we’re able to serve our guests. They’re so excited and pleased with the overall look. They love that we’ve created a space that our clients can really buy into and enjoy.”
GREAT DESIGN IMPROVES THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
Powderbird is certainly a unique business, but its needs aren’t all that unusual. Like any business, they want a space that reflects their brand and leaves their guests with favorable impressions. We can create that for you at The Black Goose Design, and the outcome will be one you can actually see reflected back to you in the way your customers feel when they’re with you.
“With helicopter skiing being so weather dependent, clouds, high wind speeds, or heavy snowfall can mean delays,” Jessika said. “People spend a lot of money to come to Powderbird, often flying hundreds of miles to be here. They look forward to the day so much, so it’s easy to understand how weather delays can cause stress. However, since remodeling our space, we’ve seen a noticeable change in our clients when they have to wait. Where people used to get anxious, they seem at ease and comfortable. Having an inviting sofa, big, comfortable chairs, and a large TV over a warm fireplace will do that. It all creates such a calming effect and helps eliminate guest anxiety. It just goes to show how a well-designed space really can make a difference in the business you do.”
AVAILABLE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Due to current Covid-19 concerns, The Black Goose Design is open for design services by appointment only. You can schedule an appointment via our website. Stay safe, dear friends!
Thursday Mar 19 2020 by Stacey Beyer
Welcome back to the Spendlove home. Our last look at this breathtaking dwelling took us through the kitchen/great room, the living room, and the entryway. Today, our tour of this impeccable remodel continues in the owner’s retreat.
Before we take a deeper dive, let’s pause and see what this space looked like when Kari and Scott Spendlove moved in.
And today…
Wow! What a difference nine months of hard work makes! Like the living room (seen here), the barrel ceiling in this room is thanks to the talents of Trent Colarusso and his team at Colarusso Construction.
Once the room’s structure was so beautifully established, Ali Thomson, one of the extremely talented designers at The Black Goose Design, continued her work on the Spendlove home, creating a place here that's all about the R&R!
MASTER BATH
There isn’t much to say about this calming corner of the Spendlove home except, “ahhhhhh!”
Such a tub setting ought to come with fineprint: “Warning: High risk of pruned skin due to prolonged tub exposure; enter at your own risk.”
Of course, the shower is not to be ignored. Looks like either option puts the “Oh!” in H2O.
DESIGN TIP: Don’t hesitate to ask for exactly what you want. This window treatment wasn’t found in any store, but Kari and Ali knew a window this grand needed the perfect finishing touch. The pros at The Black Goose Design can have custom designs created to complement your specific needs. The same is true for nearly every chair and sofa we carry. Don’t like the color/finish? Let’s swap it! Your wish is our command!
HOME THEATER
This media room all started with a tile sample. Kari loved this flooring (and we don't blame her!), and Ali and Trent took it from there, creating a media room that rivals old Hollywood.
BEFORE & AFTER
Ready for a major wow? This room once looked like this:
Trent’s team rebuilt the entire space, adding the coolest custom door, stunning wall paneling and lights, creating a look straight out of the Golden Age.
Ali added the comfort, with sectional seating, chic decorative pillows, and a center ottoman that serves as both a table and a padded place to kick up your feet!
She even found a media cabinet that perfectly blends with the wood work in this incredible space.
DESIGN TIP: Keep it personal. Wanting this room to reflect their family, Scott and Kari asked all of their children to share their favorite movies. They then selected and framed movie posters to represent their choices, with this particular poster representing a shared family favorite.
No matter your media room style, you’ll find furnishings and decorative touches at The Black Goose Design to complete the look. Don’t hesitate to bring a photo of your room in to the store. Together, we'll find you just the pieces you’re looking for!
GUEST BED & BATH
Kari wanted her mother to feel right at home at their house, so created this space specifically for her.
DESIGN TIP: When gutting your kitchen in a remodel think of ways you can repurpose cabinets that still have some life left in them. These cabinets once lived in the Spendlove kitchen, and with a little elbow grease and updating, they look good as new in this guest bath.
DESIGN TIP: Create unity within a space by adding cohesive patterns throughout. In this case, the delicate flower style of the floor tile also makes an appearance in the shelves of the shower.
GUEST BED #2
Kari’s mom isn’t the only lucky lady on the Spendlove guest list. Grandchildren are also frequent occupants. Kari worked with Ali to create this sweet room just for them.
MUD ROOM
Speaking of grandkids, what kiddo wouldn’t love access to their own water fountain?! This hallway addition is so charming!
Down the same hall, it's all about the bomb lighting in the mud room! (Does it remind you of any tile we've seen?)
Of course, the unique stained-glass window isn't too bad either! In our last post, this window was a Texas find, adding another bit of the Spendlove’s roots to their home’s design.
DESIGN TIP: Think of design elements that represent aspects unique to your past and story. Such touches are sure to make your house feel more like home.
LAUNDRY ROOM
It's just us to push the laundry off until last. Nah. We kid. This may be a work space, but that doesn't make it any less fun than the rest of this remarkable home. Laundry? Fun?! Welllll… maybe not. But it sure would be more enjoyable in a room like this.
SEE THE REST
Don’t miss the rest of the impressive Spendlove home. It’s glorious great room, luxurious living room and enchanting entry will leave you inspired, whether you’re looking to update or simply love a little eye candy!
YOUR TURN
Did we wet your whistle? Ready to start your own home remodel?
Maybe you have your eye on a particular item from this post? The Black Goose Design offers both residential and commercial design services, and we carry the latest looks in furniture, wall art, area rugs, bedding, lighting and more for your home. Helping our clients bring their visions to life fills us with gratitude and delight. We can't wait to chat with you!
Thursday Mar 5 2020 by Stacey Beyer
“You should have seen where we started.” Scott Spendlove laughed as he gave our photographer the tour of his newly-remodeled home in Mapleton, Utah. “We’ve come a long way from that little one-bedroom apartment in Provo where we lived when we were first married.”
Indeed! It’s easy to see why Scott’s beaming. After nearly a year of hard work, the home he shares with his lovely wife Kari is finally remodeled. From floor to ceiling, every detail looks magazine-amazing!
Being the warm people they are, the Spendloves have graciously invited us inside to tour their newly- finished re-design. Let’s go!
A DREAM REALIZED
“We live here!” Kari said several times throughout our visit, almost to herself, as if she were trying to pinch herself awake from a dream. Yes, Kari, this is YOUR breathtaking home. YOUR stunning vision. YOUR happily ever after. Here’s to a job well done. The Black Goose Design, and designer Ali Thomson specifically, LOVED being a part of this memorable transformation!
ENTRYWAY
The clean sophistication of the home hits you as soon as you enter. It’s a feeling that’s as calming as it is inviting.
LIVING ROOM
Just inside the entry, the living room takes center stage with its impressive barrel ceiling and detailed wood work on the walls.
These custom touches are the genius of Trent Colarusso and his team at Colarusso Construction (pictured with Ali and Kari below).
The connection Kari, Scott, Trent, and Ali share is clear from the moment they get in a room together. The design/remodeling experience, with the right personality fits, is a very connective experience for those involved.
“It’s so important for the designer/client relationship to click,” Ali said. “That’s absolutely what happened at the Spendlove home. The four of us quickly became close and caught a shared vision, which made the process smooth and FUN!”
A remodel? Fun? Yes, it can happen, and The Black Goose Design will see that it does!
GREAT ROOM
The main living area of the home reflects both the Spendlove family’s history and where it’s going, with pieces representing their past combined beautifully with new fixtures and designs.
“We had this wide-open wall space to fill,” Ali recalls. “I mentioned it to Kari and gave her a few possible ideas. From there, she found the perfect touch — these doors from Texas, the state they called home for many years.”
KITCHEN
Of course, it's the kitchen that puts the added GREAT in this great room. It's the stuff chef dreams are made of!
BEFORE & AFTER
When the Spendloves moved in, their kitchen looked like this. What a difference design updates make!
TRUST IS EVERYTHING
With any design project, trust is paramount. The Black Goose Design prides itself on prioritizing the client/designer relationship. This promotes confidence and trust, which, in the end, leads to a space reflective of the client’s visions and then some. We never want the process of designing a space to feel overwhelming or unattainable.
“As we started this process, I was unsure of everything,” Scott recalled. “But as the work started to expand and I could see the direction we were headed in, it gave me great confidence in Ali, Trent and their teams. I knew they were doing this project right. Everything my wife had envisioned came together just as we hoped it would.”
“I feel so grateful Scott trusted me to do what I wanted in our home,” Kari added. “I just love the way it all came together!”
We love it too, Kari! You and Scott have impeccable taste. We’re honored you looked to The Black Goose Design to turn your dreams into such a special reality. We know you’re going to make a lifetime of amazing memories with your darling family in this heartfelt space.
JOIN US FOR PART 2
Loving the Spendlove home? We are too! Join us again on March 19, 2020, for the second half of this gorgeous walkthrough. We’ll check out:
YOUR TURN — LET’S BRING YOUR DREAMS TO LIFE
Like something you see in the post? Odds are, it's available for purchase at The Black Goose Design. We carry everything from area rungs and wallpaper to furniture and light fixtures to decorative pillows and on-trend finishing touches.
Ready to start your own design process? Our designers live for this stuff and want to help you bring your dreams to life. Stop by or call The Black Goose Design today so we can start putting your plans into motion.
Thursday Feb 6 2020 by Stacey Beyer
Utah might be up to its knees in snow at the moment, but spring is very much on our minds at The Black Goose Design. Our buyers recently attended the Las Vegas Market, where the trade show floor was alive with florals, color, clean lines, warm lighting, and more! Here’s a little sneak peek at some of the sweet things coming your way soon!
SOFT FLORALS & COLOR
While we appreciate clean lines and the minimalist approach to design, we can’t help but swoon when a good floral crosses our paths. You bet we’ll carry these beauties in the coming months.
The world of textiles was a vibrant mix of color and patterns, opening up many creative doors for your home!
TREND TIP: Expect to see more color and bold blooms as the temps rise.
CLEAN LINES & MONOCHROME
In design, every yin has its yang. In contrast to the color and blooms, we saw many clean and simple, yet eye-catching and unique accessories.
Along with the geometric element, the monochrome contrast of black and white was well represented.
DESIGN TIP: Design is never all-or-nothing. Soft florals and pops of color can blend beautifully with geometric shapes and a primarily monochromatic approach. The trick is placement and ratios. If you’re a fan of both styles but aren’t quite sure how to proceed, let us know. We’ll happily help you find your sweet spot.
LIGHTING
Nothing says “inviting” quite like the right lighting.
Plus, a new light fixture is an easy and relatively affordable way to breathe new life into a room. If lighting is on your list, you’re going to love the looks debuting at market.
LIGHTING TIP: We recommend the lighting be consistent throughout your home. A go-to bulb choice is soft white at a temperature of 2700-3000k.
IT’S A SPRING THING
Ready to welcome the fresh feel of spring in your home? Visit our store in the coming weeks and be the first to get the latest and greatest market releases.
Thursday Dec 12 2019 by Stacey Beyer
You’re going to want to sit down for this one. Literally. This chair share is going to have you longing for a lounge. Go ahead, sit back. Relax. Kick up those tired feet. This is your time to simply enjoy a little eye candy and our list of must-have chairs for 2020!
The Scout by Wesley Hall
Why We Love It: The outline! It’s sleek and stylish and we just can’t get enough.
Features to Fancy: Its height. This is a great chair for a room with taller ceilings.
Customization Qualities: The Scout is an extra fun option, because the customization options are endless. In this version, one fabric is on the body, another is on the seat, and leather has been used for the welt and buttons. What a chic combination!
Placement Pointer: The Scout is perfectly placed when it's in an open space (not up against a wall) where it can be seen from every angle, as it has qualities to show off from all sides.
The Hartwell by Wesley Hall
Why We Love It: The sit! It’s so good! This is, hands down, one of the most comfortable chairs we carry at The Black Goose Design.
Features to Fancy: The darling English arm and its nailhead detailing!
Customization Qualities: You can choose from a number of different fabrics to find your perfect Hartwell finish. Plus, the casters on the front legs are optional. You can always order without them.
Purchase Pointer: Its accommodating height. This chair is an ideal option for a family, because it’s comfortable for the tall and the small.
The Foremost by Peter Jacob for Wesley Hall
Why We Love It: It's tall, dark (when you want it to be), and handsome. What's not to love? Of course, this is one book you can judge by more than just its attractive cover. It's also incredibly comfortable!
Customization Qualities: From sleek leather to fashionable fabric, there are numerous ways to customize this king.
Features to Fancy: Its height makes it the star of any room it graces, and the buttons along the lower back (front side) are cute as a... well, you know where we're going with this.
Placement Pointer: Place this handsome devil in a bedroom, a living area, or even at the head of your dining table. It plays nice with any spot it calls home.
’Tis the Seating Season
Who wouldn’t adore a new statement piece of furniture? Whether you’re looking for one standout choice or a chair pair for a sitting area, you’ll find these three fab frames and many more stylish choices at The Black Goose Design. Stop by for a test sit today.
Thursday Oct 31 2019 by Stacey Beyer
image credit: Benjamin Moore
image credit: Dash & Albert
image credit: Dash & Albert
image credit: Benjamin Moore
image credit: Wesley Hall
image credit: Wesley Hall
image credit: Wesley Hall
image credit: Gabby
image credit: Wesley Hall
image credit: Dash & Albert
Thursday Oct 24 2019 by Stacey Beyer
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.
Thursday Oct 17 2019 by Stacey Beyer
“It’s a wonderful building! I drove by it nearly every day, and each time I’d pass, it would catch my eye. Then, one day, it came up for sale! I said to my husband, ‘We’ve got to buy it!’ He asked what for and I told him we’d think of something…”
And think of something, she did! This is how Nancy Long, The Black Goose Design and Gardner Village founder, describes her introduction to what is now our gorgeous home, furniture showroom and interior design business.
It’s a building rich with Utah history and loads of unique personality. Join us on this behind-the-scenes tour. We’ll go through areas not typically open to the public and discover the rich history behind our showroom home.
THE BUILDING HISTORY
Let’s kick this trip back in time off with a look at this building’s story:
THEY DON’T MAKE ‘EM LIKE THIS ANYMORE
Step foot inside The Black Goose Design, and you know you’ve arrived at a special place. At your feet, you’ll likely see original hardwood flooring, as well as a peek at its rec center past.
Along the walls, you can’t help but notice the antique radiators, which are still used to heat the building.
Around nearly every turn, you’ll see signs of the antique architecture:
… and the list goes on! It really is a treat to experience.
AN UNSUAL FEATURE & A COLORFUL PAST
Of course, a feature that often catches the most attention are the large walk-in safes on both the main and upper levels.
Today, they house fabric swatches and clearance items, but they served a much more intense purpose when this building was the Sharon Steel Smelter office building. They held large sums of money for the mining company, including solid gold used in payroll.
At that point in history, a train ran directly behind the building and would stop to make high-dollar cash deliveries. This was before the days of armored cars, so armed guards would sit in these very upstairs windows, machine guns in hand, guarding the deliveries against theft. Crazy stuff to imagine today!
BEHIND THE SCENES
The Black Goose Design recently got a new front door. As the entryway was being remodeled, those who've worked here came by and signed their name on the wall around the door frame before the new casing went up. It's like our way of adding a piece of history to this already-interesting building's story!
If you look closely, you might see "Joe Long" written across the top of the door before the gorgeous new frame (pictured below) went in. Others followed suit, adding their names all around the door. Very cool!
TREES, PLEASE
Have you ever looked around Midvale and noticed a lack of trees? Well, maybe not a lack of trees, per se, but a lack of TALL trees. There’s a reason for this.
“Some 20-25 years ago, Midvale did a cleanup, saying the ground was contaminated and needed to be removed,” Angie Gerdes, Nancy Long’s daughter and Gardner Village co-owner, recalls. “Much of Midvale was given the choice to either have their trees removed at no cost or keep their trees, knowing that if they were to die, the expense of the removal would fall to the property owner. Nearly everyone allowed the city to remove the trees, but Mom opted to keep our trees. It paid off. The trees lived. Today, they stand beautifully above The Black Goose Deisgn, adding to the building’s unique beauty.”
The exterior is also known for its ivy abundance.
Between the towering trees and the green coating its brick walls, The Black Goose Design looks a bit like a cottage tucked away in the woods. Well… except for the fact that it sits right on the west end of Midvale, but you get the fairytale vision we like to see.
FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
The building may look like the stuff of fairytales, but The Black Goose Design's story sure doesn't have a fairytale beginning. Let’s pick up where Nancy Long left off in 1985. She and her husband had just purchased the building. Though, her husband still wasn’t entirely convinced of the decision.
“As we worked on renovating the space, my husband kept asking me what we were going to do with the building. ‘Make it a store,’ I’d tell him. ‘You already have a store,’ he’d reply. But I saw this store serving a different purpose than Country Furniture [now CF Home at Gardner Village]. It would be a higher-end furniture store.”
Nancy went ahead with her dream, attending a furniture market and buying as much as she could with her less-than-impressive credit rating at the time and a net-30 payback arrangement.
“The pressure was on. I had just one month to sell this furniture in order to make the payment, so I called my daughter Stacy in Wyoming and put her to work in the store. We filled the building with what we little we were able to purchase at market. I even brought in some of my own furniture to make it look less bare. To advertise our grand opening, we opted for a mailer, using our Country Furniture mailing list. On grand opening day, we had two furniture reps and our small staff ready to welcome our new customers... only they never came. Turns out the post office had failed to mail our flyers. I was so mad that I couldn't even get mad at that point. I just knew we HAD TO move this furniture, so I made a quick flyer and had the employees at Country Furniture put it in all the bags. I told them they had to get the word out. And that’s just what they did. We did $50,000 in business that first month and have been a success ever since.”
Talk about a stressful foot to start on. We admire Nancy Long and her vision. She knew she was on to something as soon as she saw the sale sign in front of this remarkable space, and she followed that gut instinct through, even though the deck seemed stacked against her. How happy we are she did, too. This space with all its character and its layers of history is the ideal backdrop for The Black Goose Design. Stop by anytime to take a look around for yourself. We'd love to meet you. Every customer who visits and client we serve adds to the rich tapestry that makes us who we are today!
Wednesday Oct 9 2019 by Stacey Beyer
25 years! Talk about a milestone! It’s how long Denise Johnson has been with the Gardner Mill Company stores. It’s also what makes Denise the employee who has been with our company the longest. That can only mean one thing—time for a party!
Friends from The Black Goose Design and Gardner Village gathered together to celebrate Denise.
Little tributes to Denise were woven throughout, including plenty of cheese (her fav food!) and a blue/coastal decor vibe, because this girl LOVES the water.
Denise’s Gardner Mill story began when she was just 16 when she was hired by Gardner Village founder, Nancy Long.
“At that time, there was no Village,” Denise recalls. “It was just one store, Country Furniture. And the idea of working there sure beat delivering pizzas, so I left my Pizza Hut job and started this incredible journey!”
THE JOURNEY
Country Furniture wasn’t Denise’s only place of employment before joining us at The Black Goose Design. In fact, she’s worked at a total of 15 different stores in Gardner Mill Company stores over the years. In 2011, she started her full-time design position with us here at The Black Goose Design.
“I was on the store-front side of things for many years, where I did the merchandising and displays and customer service and management and buying, but my vision has always been more big picture. I’m grateful for all of the experiences I’ve had that have helped get me where I am now. I know each thing I've done and learned have helped prepare me for what I do now. I have a broader perspective and it all relates to how well I’m able to do my job.”
A LOOK AT DENISE’S INTERIOR DESIGN WORK
And what a fine job Denise does! Here are just a few of her recent projects:
A HOME AWAY FROM HOME
Working with the same company for a quarter century is no small thing. No wonder Denise feels extremely close to her coworkers.
“All of the relationships I’ve cultivated over the years… These are my people! When you spend this much time with others, they become your family.”
CONGRATULATIONS!
25 years with this fine woman? No wonder a celebration was in order. We have much to be grateful for. Not only is Denise amazing at what she does, she’s also a wonderful human being. Having her in our family is a gift. Congratulations on your milestone, Denise! Thanks so much for all you've done over the years!
Want to work with Denise on your next project? Call the store to schedule an appointment. 801.562.1933
Thursday Oct 3 2019 by Stacey Beyer
The Black Goose Design is known for home interior design, but did you know we also specialize in transforming commercial spaces? Whether it's taking an office from blah to ahhh or helping you decorate a brand new build from the ground up, we love helping business owners identify and create their ideal spaces.
One of our recent ground-up projects — The Wheel Room at Gardner Village!
Believe it or not, this gorgeous events space was once a dark and crowded furniture store basement. Today it serves as an in-demand spot to host weddings and receptions, corporate gatherings, reunions, holiday parties, and more. Phew! Designing a space that serves so many purposes? That's a tall order! But we were up for the challenge. Take a look at what our talented designer, Randi, did with this space.
MAKING A LIST
Like any project we approach, Randi first had to identify the client's wish list, as well as any unique requirements for the space. In this cool commercial area, that list included (but wasn't limited to) the following:
* creating a cohesive design that works with the other events spaces already located in the historic Gardner Mill
* embracing the established industrial look of the mill and allowing its cool factor to shine, while also incorporating softer touches that complement such an asthetic
* designing a space that works for a variety of purposes, including corporate gatherings, weddings/receptions, reunions, and more
TASK 1: CREATING COHESION
Just as you want the overall feel of your home to be cohesive from one room to the next, a business should maintain a unifying feel throughout. Fortunately for us, we were actually involved in the designing phase of the Archibald's Restuarant (also located in the Gardner Mill at Gardner Village) re-model a few years ago, as well as the design work in the various events spaces on site, so it was easy to pick up where we left off with this newest addition.
Of course, this isn't to say we can't come in and enhance a project we haven't already had a hand in. We absolutely can. We love picking up where someone else has left off to create the finished look you desire.
TASK 2: ADDING WARMTH
It's not every day you get to offer design expertise for a building that was made before Lincoln was president. Talk about an exciting challenge! Our goal was to add touches of warmth that would let this one-of-a-kind building still come shining through as the star. Greens were a natural choice. They're a bright addition that will add life to any space (yes, even if those greens aren't, themselves, alive -- artificial works!).
Linens increase the inviting aspect of a room. This is true in a home and can also be true in a commercial space. When appropriate, look for an area where you can add a bench or a few decorative pillows to a seating area. It can make all the difference in how your customers feel.
If throws and pillows don't make sense for your business, consider windor treatments and other opportunities to introduce fabric finishes.
When it comes to friendly details, inspiring words are a no-brainer.
Finally, we worked warm and neutral shades in, like the reds woven into this divine table runner and the warm furnishings.
TASK 3: EMBRACING THE INDUSTRIAL
An old flour mill that functioned in Utah's pioneer days? Talk about a designer's dream today. Industrial is in! To enhance such a magnifcent canvas, we opted for classic simplicity. Clean lines and geometric shapes made sense and support the wheels and gears and such of days gone by.
The sleek contrast of black and white was another go-to choice. While very much on trend right now, black and white are also a classic choice that will stand the test of time. That's an imporatant aspect to consider when designing a commercial space. You don't want it to feel dated one, two, or five years from now.
TASK 4: MAKING A MULTIFUNCTIONAL SPACE
As mentioned, Gardner Village created this space to meet their many clients' needs. From high school reunions and wedding receptions to business meetings and corporate celebrations, it's a room for all. The room even has a smaller meeting space on site, which can be used as a bridal suite or a smaller business meeting space.
To go from corporate-cooperative to happily-ever-after in a single room? It can be done! The trick is sublety. For example, romantic touches that don't scream lovey-dovey but still offer sweet touches in the background of those wedding shots.
We also selected decorative touches that wouldn't be too distracting. The last thing you want is a room full of business women and men who are more caught up in the decor than they are the task at hand.
We recognize that not all businesses serve a one-size-fits all purpose, and we have the tricks up our sleeves to ensure your space can effectively transition from one need to the next.
FROM BLEAK BASEMENT TO BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL
It’s hard to imagine this bright, beautiful, open area was once the dark, crowded basement of a furniture store. To see it transformed in this way has been such a neat experience.
YOUR NEXT COMMERCIAL PROJECT
Being involved in your business is a highlight of ours! Whether you already have an idea for the direction you want to take your commercial space in or you’re starting with a blank slate, the team at The Black Goose is here for you. Give us a call to set up an appointment with one of our talented designers today.
Thursday Jul 25 2019
Today we will be giving you some gorgeous designer inspiration on how to dress up and refresh your walls with amazing artwork! Artwork has the tremendous ability to transform a space and infuse it with a pop-of-personality! Those beautiful pictures we hang on our walls add stylish finesse within our homes and are a crucial detail to completing a well-designed room.
Be innovative when displaying your beloved art work. Art does not always necessarily have to be hung on a wall. Layering gorgeous art atop a mantel, a shelf or a piece of furniture always contributes unexpected interest. Displaying artwork in a unique way is always visually stunning and adds a "surprise" element in a room.
The walls of your home tell a story about the people who live in it, so make it as personal as you can. We adore the idea of mixing and matching your favorite pieces of art in a collage-style display. This type of display feels effortless and eclectic, and it also allows flexibility to add even more pieces to your personal art collection in time. Grouping art together is visually expressive and powerful.
Eye-catching wall prints, above this amazing console piece, create a stunning focal point. We love the bits of blue and grey tones throughout this room. Utilizing these subdued colors in the entire room, especially within the artwork, give such a tranquil feeling.
Artwork can capture the essence of your personal design style. 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 and pen and ink drawings always peek a visual interest with chic style. Muted coloring with simple shapes also can add great interest not only in the subject matter but in the amazing quality of the art piece itself!
Clustering unique sketches and paintings together can visually make a large impact within a space. We feel selecting artwork for your home is a very personal process. Choosing art pieces that you truly adore on your walls is important so display something you love! These sketched and watercolor art pieces are so elegant grouped together. Layering artwork also gives great depth and dimension. Every unique personal piece of art gives this room a refined and collected feel.
As designers, we often are asked how to fill large wall spaces within the home. Well, there is no better way to make a dramatic design statement than with a substantial art piece. Showcasing one visually impactful piece on a large wall or area in your home will add designer flair with sophisticated simplicity.
Large art pieces contribute generous proportion bringing scale and balance to spacious rooms. Expansive spaces call for a heavier visual weight when it comes to artwork so select art pieces that are adequate sizes. Creating balance is key for making a room feel complete and grounded.
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 a stylish and sleek presence when combining multiple art pieces together.
Art is more than just hanging a picture on a wall. It is a way of expressing your design style and surrounding yourself in an atmosphere that you love to be in. Our designer showroom located in Midvale, Utah is filled with gorgeous unique artwork that is sure to suit any style. Our interior designers are always delighted to suggest art pieces that will complement your space perfectly.
Thursday Jul 4 2019
The Black Goose Design is ecstatic to welcome our new store manager, Georgia Kendall! We are absolutely thrilled to have Georgia be a part of our talented interior design team.
Georgia is a very familiar face to Gardner Mill Company. For five years, she did an outstanding job managing Layers Bedding, one of our charming sister stores that specializes in beautiful bedding and located at Gardner Village. Gardner Mill Company holds a special place in Georgia's heart as she has close ties with this amazing company located in West Jordan Utah. Her grandmother, Nancy Long, is the founder of Gardner Village, and Georgia is the third generation of her family to be working at Gardner Mill Company. She feels fortunate to be able to work side by side with her her uncle, Joe Long, and aunt, Angie Gerdes, who own Gardner Mill Company and Gardner Village, along with her mama Chris Fawson, who manages CF Home.
Georgia is delighted to be able to share her expertise and design talents with The Black Goose Design!
Georgia's years of experience working at Gardner Mill Company give her essential knowledge on the many high-quality companies that we carry. Ensuring every client has a wonderful design experience complete with supreme customer service that results in total project success is her top priority. Georgia's focus is to create beautiful spaces for her clients to enjoy, but most importantly a functional space that fits her clients' individual design needs. She enjoys collaborating timeless pieces with fresh, new design elements, creating a unique look specific to her clients' personalities.
Georgia has assisted in home renovations, and has enjoyed the process of seeing a space come together beautifully. Georgia truly embraces collaborating all the principles and elements of design together to create excellence. She specializes in space planning, material selection and remodeling.
Georgia is currently renovating her 1975 brick rambler and it's well underway to becoming a beautiful space! Georgia was gracious enough to share the tremendous before and after results of one of the powder baths in her home.
As you can see, Georgia has such amazing talent! We absolutely adore this gorgeous refreshed bathroom. Stunning crisp, white shiplap gives a completely different look to this space. Can you believe the difference? The handsome touches of industrial lighting add an eye-catching contrast and this renewed bathroom is now a lovely tranquil space. We are looking forward to seeing more of her renovation projects, and we are positive they will be captivating.
Georgia is an absolute expert when it comes to beautiful, cozy bedding. One of her passions is creating inviting, restful bedroom retreats complete with luxurious bedding.
She loves introducing and educating her clients on high-quality fine linens, and allowing each client to experience the gift of a good night's rest in spectacular bedding. We can all relate to that!
Georgia loves what she does; and with her skill set, we are so excited to see her thrive at The Black Goose Design.
Georgia's passion, knowledge and expertise in design make her a well-rounded designer and will be a tremendous asset to The Black Goose Design. Georgia has such an enthusiasm for interior design and embraces the entire process. Welcome Georgia to The Black Goose Design!
Thursday Jun 27 2019
Get ready for part two of the stunning Smalls Manor, a historic home built in 1899 and located in the Avenues of Salt Lake City, Utah. This glorious home has recently been through a two-year design renovation completed by our own interior designer, Randi Smith. We are absolutely thrilled to give you an exclusive look inside of Randi's charming home. We had previously featured her lovely home on our blog during renovations, and if you missed it, be sure to check out the incredible before and after photos here.
Randi felt the renovations that needed to take place should look fresh and modern, yet still capture the charm of a historical home. Classic and timeless materials were used to keep true to this home's historic roots. A fully-updated kitchen, complete with luxurious appliances, are definitely a highlight at Smalls Manor. We adore this bright, white kitchen with its accents of gold hardware and vintage pendant lighting. A large island was constructed in the center of the kitchen along with a counter bar to provide functional use and additional seating.
We admire the sharp contrast of black and white features within the kitchen. They are oh-so-handsome! Classic coloring and sleek custom cabinetry were combined to create a timeless and seamless look. Here is a quick reminder of what this kitchen looked like before renovations took place.
Randi also paid close attention to the architectural features of the home, such as crown molding and interior doors. She had a clear vision of how the interior details should be showcased and went to work on designing fashionable doors. These custom doors were made specifically for Smalls Manor, and the rich detailing of each door is amazing! We love the curvature and elegant lines of every unique interior door. They finish off the home perfectly.
Smalls Manor houses some incredible lighting fixtures. Everywhere you look there is a different visually stunning source of light. These kitchen pendant lights are a strong feature and visually echo a vintage look, which is ideal for this home.
The kitchen and living space give an open and airy feel. This space is ideal for lounging in total comfort with friends and family.
As interior designers, we are always ecstatic when we have the opportunity to create a spectacular space for our clients. If you are thinking about starting your own renovation, building a new home or simply are needing a refreshed look within your home, we would be happy to be your partner and assist you in your design projects. Having an experienced interior designer by your side through the design process can save you valuable time and expense. We have the expertise and knowledge to bring your interior design vision together with ease!
This open living space is so welcoming and warm! The rich color palette is sophisticated yet casual. A custom sectional paired with a rich leather ottoman are ideal for this space. The Black Goose Design carries the highest quality upholstery companies, and can be completely customized to fit your personal design style!
Before this casual living space felt heavy and dark. A lighter bright paint and new window treatments completely transformed this room, The difference is amazing!
So many gorgeous details fill this room, and we love the idea of incorporating additional seating wherever you can. These sleek stools are tucked away perfectly but can be pulled out with ease if extra seating is needed!
These custom roman shades give a pop-of-pattern without overwhelming the space. Window treatments can add fantastic texture to a room and will also visually help "frame-in" your windows. We especially like how these Roman shades complement the gorgeous original stained-glass window in the center of the room.
Custom, cozy chairs are abundant at Smalls Manor. This particular chair style is one of our favorites! We adore the high-back and the plush luxurious seat on these custom accent chairs. The exposed wood also highlights the chic lines of the chair frame and gives definition to both chairs.
Off the kitchen is an endearing hallway filled with beautiful artwork (many art pieces are originals) that hold special meaning and are close to Randi's heart. Many of the art pieces are varied in scale and size making this hallway visually interesting. These fun art pieces have been arranged in a gallery-type styling which allows for flexibility to keep adding to her beautiful art collection with ease.
At the end of the charming hallway, a darling door opens up into a quaint powder bath. This magnificent bathroom is complete with black and white hexagon tiling, an ideal selection for keeping true to this home's original style.
As we journey upstairs, a lovely vignette is arranged at the top of the stairs which leads into the marvelous master bedroom.
A serene scene of tranquil bedding and plush pillows make this master bedroom heavenly! Natural textures, combined with light coloring, give a peaceful ambiance throughout this room. When it comes to bedding, it is a good idea to select versatile main bedding pieces. By keeping your main bedding pieces neutral, this will allow for flexibility to mix in a variety of accent throw pillows or playful prints. This is especially helpful when you may be itching to switch up your bedding seasonally.
A delightful seating area, complete with a lush velvet chaise lounge, adorns this master bedroom. Randi visualized a small seating area in the bedroom where she could relax in total comfort at the end of the day. Natural elements are carried throughout this gorgeous seating area, and the large textured rug brings in an organic feel to this space and creates a cohesive look. Grand french doors are dressed with the most spectacular pleated draperies and are the perfect finishing touch to this master suite.
Master bedroom before
The many renovations that took place in Smalls Manor have been completed with absolute design perfection! It has been our pleasure to share this incredible design journey of an extraordinary project and transformation.
Our interior design team is always eager to partner with you in all of your design needs. We offer professional interior design services that will ease the design process. Whether you are building a new home, starting a renovation project or are considering refreshing your space, we would love to assist you through it all! Investing in an interior designer and having a design expert by your side will assure you that you are making the very best choice in your design selections. Our latest major interior design project Banbury Manor, was a property featured in the 2018 Salt Lake Parade of Homes. This stunning home had a beautiful master plan and vibrant vision. Each of our talented designers made this home a stunning design dream and tremendous success.
Each interior designer at The Black Goose Design is extremely knowledgeable, professional and will give you the expertise and guidance you desire throughout you design project. We would love to meet with you, to set up a design appointment click here.
We want to be your interior design partner in all of your projects, there is no better time then now to meet with one of our expert designers to start making your design dreams become a reality. Working with an interior designer will put you on the path to design success. Our knowledge in many aspects of design will give you peace of mind that your design project is properly managed and will deliver the gorgeous results you had envisioned.
Thursday Jun 20 2019
The Black Goose Design is so delighted to present a very special designer home tour. This beautiful home located in the historic Salt Lake City Avenues belongs to one of our designers, Randi Smith. Randi has been on a two-year journey renovating this incredible home that was built in 1899. We previously featured her lovely home on our blog while she renovated. You can check out the amazing before and after photos here.
We are ecstatic to finally reveal many stunning designer details throughout this home and give you an up close and personal sneak peek inside! Welcome to Smalls Manor, a charming home that showcases gorgeous interior design.
As you are welcomed into this quaint entryway, a handsome vignette greets you. We absolutely adore the stunning floor, and the tilework is a work of art! The entryway sets a classic feel and style for the entire home. Randi felt it was important to keep many of the home's features timeless, as if these fabulous details had always been part of the home.
Below is a friendly reminder of what this space looked like before renovations took place. Amazing isn't it?! Look for the "before" photos so that you can see the stunning transformation of this extraordinary home! You will not believe your eyes!
Entryway before
Many striking lighting fixtures are displayed throughout Smalls Manor, giving such a unique and visual presence. We love how this round light casts gorgeous shadowing as you enter the home.
One of our favorite upholstered furniture pieces is this custom-made bench. The textured fabric and tufted backing is simply stunning! Incorporating an upholstered piece into your entryway is a great way to create an inviting look to the space that welcomes friends and family.
The sleek lines of this bench gives a transitional and modern feel, and the nailhead trim combined with contrasting fabrics are delightfully picturesque.
Living room before
When starting a renovation, (or any design project) having a professional designer by your side can be a tremendous help and is a great investment. As expert interior designers, we have the ability to help you see the potential of your space and create a master design plan to suit your design style and needs.
We absolutely admire all of the soft textures within this space. The hair-on-hide pouf ottomans display soft curves and are such a pretty detail to finish off this sitting room.
A simple yet stunning mantel display lends a touch of gold glam. Layered artwork, which incorporates the color palette of this space, fits the room perfectly. We love the crackled vintage presence this art piece brings to the room.
Crisp, white walls paired with deep jewel-toned accents create a sharp and handsome contrast. Adding rich color within your space will contribute depth and dimension for a visually impressive room.
Every single design detail was flawlessly brought together to create phenomenal interior design! Randi has incredible design talent and her expertise in every aspect of this home made the renovation a complete success (and it shows)!
Dining room before
The dining room is the ideal space to share a delicious meal and make memorable moments surrounded in style. Randi enjoys hosting dinner parties and social get-togethers so a large, functional dining area was a must! Cozy upholstered dining chairs paired with a warm-toned dining table sets the mood for a lovely soiree.
A chic black sideboard visually anchors this room, and how can you overlook the breathtaking floral artwork? These large art pieces add such a delicate touch and echos the beautiful blooms on display.
Every angle in this room is a total interior design dream!
We simply cannot get enough of all of the phenomenal lighting fixtures throughout this home. This particular light gives a soft, warm glow making it the perfect fixture for hosting cozy dinner parties. The exposed bulbs and chic design of this chandelier fits the room and style of the home magnificently.
The home features many beautiful and grand windows. Custom draperies are not only essential for controlling light exposure and privacy, they also aid in framing in those wonderful windows. Adding draperies to your home will give you the ultimate finished and refined look to any space. We are always happy to customize window treatments for your home.
Mixing in amazing accessories completes a room with perfection! A hint of gold with some organic elements atop this stunning sideboard gives life to the space and also draws attention to the striking artwork.
Layering accessories within a room will bring color and key textures that are essential for a well-designed room. Allow us to manage all of your home accessory needs, creating ambiance and designer presence in a room is our specialty. Our designers can install beautiful and unique accessories in your home with a designer's touch. The best part is you will not even have to worry about placing a single item!
Glorious natural lighting fills this stairway giving a bright and fresh ambiance.
Magnificent original stained glass windows are present throughout this historic home. Each window is a complete artistic masterpiece and contributes so much character.
Stairway before
Updating a home is always a good idea and will increase the value of the 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.
We are so thrilled to give you, our wonderful readers, an exclusive look at the completion of this amazing historic home. Our talented designers would love to assist you in any and all of your design projects. We are always eager to create a custom master design plan that is tailored to your design needs. It would be our absolute pleasure to partner with you on your next design project, large or small! Next week we will be showing many more striking details of Smalls Manor, and you won't want to miss it!
Thursday Jun 13 2019
Hip, hip, hooray, summertime is finally here! With warmer days ahead, we find ourselves spending a little more time outside, making this the ideal time to refresh your outdoor living space. The Black Goose Design is ecstatic to introduce our brand new outdoor furniture line, Summer Classics. As designers, we love creating gorgeous outdoor spaces just as much as interior spaces! Summer Classics has the very finest in high-end outdoor furniture that will perform and stand up to the test of mother nature! Every furniture piece in this new line has charming designer details and breaks the mold of the typical "outdoor furniture" look.
Cozy custom chairs, sectionals, dining sets, chaise lounges and table accents were all designed to be visually pleasing, functional and comfortable. These stylish pieces are constructed with durable materials and excellent craftsmanship that will give you the longevity you are looking for when investing in your outdoor furniture.
As designers, we always encourage utilizing the entire space of your home, both inside and out! Outdoor spaces often get overlooked, however, they should be viewed as an important extension of your home and property. Who could say no to relaxing in your very own private retreat? Creating a serene space that surrounds you in nature's beauty is a wonderful bonus, especially when you get to relax in the most comfortable outdoor furniture.
Summer Classic's entire line of outdoor furniture is timeless and designer chic. The very best in materials is used on each product to ensure quality and durability. Powder coated framing, UV resistant fabrics, and high-quality teak wood are just a few features that makes this furniture line the pinnacle of technology with beautiful craftsmanship.
Guests will most certainly feel right at home and want to linger a little longer in your new outdoor escape. Custom upholstery pieces can be created to your personal design style. Hundreds of fade resistant fabrics with design-savvy style can be customized on cozy cushions and throw pillows to make a vignette that is as unique as you.
All of the plush, deep cushioning will surround you in total comfort. Distinct designer details like this striking brass hardware on the back of these heavenly chairs are stunning! Relish the outdoors in complete luxury with furniture from Summer Classics this summer. A welcoming outdoor space can be as simple as putting a few chairs together to create a great conversation area.
Gather your dearest family and friends and create a memorable outdoor evening filled with designer details, delicious food and a beautiful space.
Our expert designers are eager to create an outdoor oasis tailored to your personal design needs. We are happy to design the ultimate outdoor entertaining space that you will adore for years to come! So grab a glass of refreshing lemonade and allow us to help you enjoy your new space in the great outdoors! Cheers to summertime!
Thursday Jun 6 2019
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.
Thursday May 30 2019
You are in for a interior design treat today! Lee Industries, a high-quality upholstery company that we absolutely adore and carry, has given us an exclusive look at their brand new fabric and furniture design trends for this year! You will be the first to see this incredible line of amazing fabrics and latest in upholstery trends here on our blog.
The Black Goose Design carries the finest in furniture, especially when it comes to upholstery. Lee Industries produces extremely high-quality pieces made with precision craftsmanship. Every upholstered piece is proudly constructed in the USA, specifically in North Carolina! Each piece of furniture is crafted by skilled associates all by hand, ensuring a high standard of quality. Did you know 98% of Lee's components that go into their products are supplied domestically? Being eco-friendly is extremely important to Lee. By sourcing materials from local suppliers, this results in reduced transportation costs, which is all around better for the environment. Lee Industries had a fantastic spring furniture market, and we are thrilled to be showing these fresh new textiles.
We feel honored to have had a visit from the very talented Jan Whitson. She is the lead fabric designer and buyer for Lee Industries. Jan has been in the design industry for over 25 years. With a degree in textiles, her knowledge and expertise about creating new textile designs is astonishing.
Jan created original fabric designs specially for Lee Industries, and they are nothing short of stunning! Her vision for a few fabrics came from organic, nature-inspired elements. She focused on fluidity and movement within the textiles, and her final products are proudly welcomed into Lee's new spring line. Her inspirations started from agate rock, ash trees, an african mud cloth and tantalizing textures. The fabrication of these fabulous fabrics all came together wonderfully!
This gorgeous print was actually inspired from a lily pad. Bold larger-scaled prints always look stellar on upholstered accent chairs. Utilizing a large-sized print such as this one delivers a punch of personality and visual interest.
This extraordinary textile mimics the look of aspen trees and is an unbelievable work of art!
This faux paux (meaning "fake bark") pattern resembles the natural beauty of a tree trunk. Organic elements influenced a large part of this year's market at Lee. Every print turned out phenomenal.
The movement in this fabric is breathtaking. Dramatic patterns are a must for a well-designed room, and this particular fabric truly brought a "wow" factor to the 2019 spring line!
An eye-grabbing geometric with a subtle texture was inspired from an African mud cloth design. We adore the primitive simplicity of this remarkable fabric.
Delicate watercolor floral prints are always a designer favorite! These prints are soft, feminine and are a great take on a modern, chic floral look.
Lee has incredible fabrics that are also super durable. These types of fabrics are a perfect match for busy homes that take a lot of wear and tear! Crypton fabrics are serious performance fabrics that will not only look beautiful but will give you longevity for your upholstery. These fabrics have an impressive soft hand or "feel" and are extremely comfortable. We featured an entire blog post specifically on crypton fabric, and be sure to revisit that post here to learn more!
Lee has also created mind-boggling indoor and outdoor endurance fabrics that can resist any spill. The unique moisture barrier allows spills to bead up on top of the fabric which helps to avoid seepage into your upholstery. A simple blot and wipe will have your sofa or chair looking brand new in no time! Lee has state-of-the-art textiles that can withstand the true test of "life!" Combining multiple fibers such as linen, wool and soft cotton produce exceptional fabrics that encompass both beauty and durability.
The Black Goose Design is ecstatic to have had a wonderful business partnership with Lee Industries for many years. The high-quality and craftsmanship that goes into every custom upholstered piece is amazing! As designers, it is our goal to always educate and share the very best in furniture that the design industry has to offer to our clients. Partner with one of our talented designers to customize any high-quality upholstered piece from Lee Industries today. With hundreds of extraordinary, beautiful fabrics to select from, our expert interior designers are happy to help guide you in creating an ideal living space that suits your personal style.
Thursday May 23 2019
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
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
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
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!
Wednesday May 15 2019
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
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
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
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
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.
Thursday May 9 2019
Get ready for an exclusive inside peek at the latest in gorgeous designer fabrics and a showroom tour from upholstery company Wesley Hall! Wesley Hall is a high-quality upholstery line that is proudly manufactured in the USA with supreme craftsmanship. The Black Goose Design proudly carries Wesley Hall and is delighted to work with them to bring you the very latest in interior design textiles and upholstery. This spring market was a sensational success with stunning new fabrics and chic upholstery styles galore!
Zack Taylor, the president of Wesley Hall, has given us an exclusive showing of stunning new fabrics that have been introduced for this year. Mr. Taylor is an expert on furniture and fabric construction creating the perfect combination of experience to grow with the Wesley Hall brand. Previous to being at Wesley Hall he worked for Valdese Weavers, a fabric product manufacture. Valdese Weavers makes a very large portion of Wesley Hall's fabrics. Quality textiles are a tremendous part of upholstery, and the distinct blending of colors, patterns and textures found in fabric makes each upholstered piece unique. As designers, it is our goal to educate our clients about the textiles they are investing in for their furniture. Exceptional fabrics of the highest quality are made exclusively for Wesley Hall. Each custom upholstered piece is made to detailed specifications, making Wesley Hall a supreme upholstery company that delivers excellence in design.
Wesley Hall is a family owned company that is currently employing their fifth generation in the business! All of their fabulous furniture pieces are made right here in the USA, specifically in North Carolina, the furniture capital of the world. These splendid photos are from their latest spring design market which displayed remarkable fabrics and new upholstered pieces that were added to their line. We absolutely adore this quilted leather chair! Leather is always a winner for incorporating rich texture within a room, Wesley Hall provides the very finest in leathers and hair-on-hides.
Wesley Hall is extremely detail-oriented from start to finish, they make sure that every upholstered piece is completed with perfection. They hand cut all of their quality fabrics with absolute precision, this guarantees the fabric pattern will match-up with exactness and produces very little waste of the fabric. This high-quality upholstery company also uses the "8-way" hand-tied system, meaning each spring inside the frame is tied together eight times which establishes even wear. They use this system for all of their seating including stools and chairs.
Every textile and fabric is a true work of art within Wesley Hall's gorgeous line! This stunning scene has light airy fabrics paired with a deep jewel-toned tufted leather sofa, a designer match made in heaven! Patterned fabrics are eye-catching and can showcase personality, Wesley Hall has hundreds of impeccable patterns to choose from to adorn your personal space.
Wesley Hall puts an enormous amount of time in making sure each custom upholstered piece is completed to a high standard. Their large selection of frame styles will always remain classic pieces with enduring style. Wesley Hall's tagline is, "Classic made Current", taking classic design and approaching it with fresh styling.
Rich color, pattern and texture are ample within Wesley Hall's gorgeous fabric selection. Their brilliant combination of styling and high-quality craftsmanship makes Wesley Hall furniture the very best in the design industry! The Black Goose Design was ecstatic to have a visit with Peter Jacobs, an expert designer and stylist who is the genius behind some of these wonderful collections specially made for Wesley Hall.
Wesley Hall has just celebrated a tremendously successful 30 years within the furniture business! The Black Goose Design is proud to say we have shared a strong business relationship with them for many years. We firmly believe in partnering with the best in the design industry and creating long-term business relationships that are cherished.
Our design team is always delighted to indulge our clients with the finest textiles and assist in creating a custom upholstered piece that is ideal for their design style. We have full access to the most sought-after designer fabrics within the industry allowing for us to create gorgeous one-of-a-kind handmade furniture. The Black Goose Design has a stunning showroom located in Midvale, Utah filled with phenomenal, comfortable upholstery that will knock your socks off!
Thursday Apr 25 2019