The Black Goose Design is known for its furniture, lighting, rugs, designer services, and other important investments, but did you know we also carry a wide variety of smaller accessories, perfect for gifting? Looking for a hostess gift? We’ve got you! How about something special to slip in a loved one’s stocking? Yup, we have that too. And with everything on this list under $100, we’re your place to stop and shop this holiday season. Take a look!

Goose Gift Guide 2023

$10­ to $30

Tiny Photo Frames (3 assorted): $7.95 each

Say "cheese" in threes with this charming trio, sized to stocking-stuffing perfection! 

Marble Salt & Pepper Containers: $10.95 each

Spice things up with this cute couple.

Small Fluted Bowl: $11.95; Fluted Bowl: $24.95

Add a little something extra to the bowl for your own signature touch. 

Ribbed Photo Frame: $16.95

You can't go wrong with the gift of a framed photo, especially when that photo comes in this beauty!  

Glass Candle Holder: $18.95

Light up the holidays with this glowing gift. The way the light comes through the glass is something to see! 

Two-Tone Photo Frame: $19.95

If a picture is worth a thousand words, what happens to that value when you frame it in this eye-catching piece? It's neutral finish makes this the ideal choice for just about any space. 

The Year of the Dogs: $29.95

Coffee tables are going to the dogs in 2024, and we’re here for it!

Voluspa White Cypress Candles

• 4 oz.: $12
• 9 oz.: $30
• 18 oz.: $36

Okay, so technically the largest of this gorgeous trio belongs in the next group of goodies, but we couldn’t not group them together for their close-up. Doesn’t this lit bundle sparkle? And just wait until you give them the all-important smell test! 

$30 to $50

Marble Flower Dish: $39.95

Fill it with your favorite holiday treat and make someone's day! 

Brass Photo Frame: $39.95

Capture the feel of Christmases Past thanks to the vintage vibe this sophisticated number creates. 

This is Home: $42

There’s no place like it. Put this coffee table book under the tree at the place you call home.

5x7 Horn Frame: $44.95

The detail on this one is something to see (and feel!). 

The Devol Kitchen: $45

Give your hostess something to devour with this fav read!

$50+

Chip & Dip Basket: $69.95

Serve this one up with chips and your secret dip recipe. You're sure to leave a tasty impression!

Bunny Bookends: $89.95

Bunnies! Need we say more?

The inspo doesn't end here. You'll find treasures around every turn at The Black Goose Design! Stop by ahead of the Thanksgiving weekend and pick something up for your hard-working hosts. And don't forget to give us a visit on Small Business Saturday. It's November 25, and we'd love to see you and help you with gifts for everyone on your Nice list.

Halloween may be over, but we’re still in a mood here at The Black Goose Design. Specifically, the moody shades of paint we're craving for both the interior and exterior. Feeling all the feels, a few of our designers are here to take a deep dive and share their fav darker hues for 2023 and looking ahead to 2024.

Georgia’s Picks: Backwoods by Benjamin Moore; Cyberspace by Sherwin Williams

Monica’s Picks: Blue Note and Blue Spruce by Benjamin Moore; Sea Serpent by Sherwin Williams 

Sea Serpent by Sherwin Williams

Suzee’s Picks: Wrought Iron, Hale Navy, and Rainy Afternoon by Benjamin Moore

DelReanne and Lindsay’s Picks: Nocturnal Gray by Benjamin Moore; Rockwood Shutter Green by Sherwin Williams

Rockwood Shutter Green by Sherwin Williams

Karaden’s Picks: Intrigue by Benjamin Moore; Urbane Bronze and Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams

Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams

Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams

Whether you use these shades indoors or out, they’ll definitely give your home or office a modern yet inviting vibe.

Yes, you can paint your walls or even opt for wallpaper in these shades, but adding color to cabinets is also a look we love! 

It’s a common misconception that deeper shades can make a space feel cold or even small. That’s not necessarily the case. It’s all in how you use the color – other shades you’re pairing it with, the undertones the color casts, etc.

If you love a broody vibe but aren’t sure where to begin or which shade is right for you, schedule a paint consultation with one of us at The Black Goose Design. We love a good color chat and the opportunity to connect with you. Plus, we have a tremendous number of swatches and samples to pull and play with, so you can really get an idea of what pairs well and where your brood ‘tude resides. Hope to see you soon!

It’s always a treat when we get to introduce you to a new member of our team here at The Black Goose Design! Today, that’s someone is Karaden Lodder. She comes to us with years of experience, a passion for design, lots of tips for making your next design project a great one.

Get to Know Karaden Q&A

Q. Tell us a bit about your design background.  

A. I’ve been doing design work for more than a decade now, with much of my background in new home construction. I also attended interior design school in Scottsdale, AZ, and managed a well-known home décor store.

Q. What is it about this kind of work that appeals to you?

A. Above all else, I love that being a designer allows me to work with people. I like getting to know my clients and discovering what it is that’s most important to them. Connecting in this way is key to a successful design experience, but it also makes everything I do feel that much more meaningful.

Q: What can a client expect when they start working with you?

A. Besides a personal connection, we’ll spend time up front identifying your style. You might not even know what your style is, and that’s okay. We can discover this together. This could be from looking at your photos or a favorite décor piece, or it could be through exploring an inspiration/Pinterest board together. We’ll have fun capturing your style and taking it to the next level … putting our own unique and custom spin on an idea.

Q. How do you put a custom spin on a design project?

A. For me, it’s all about creating little moments in a home. A beautiful way to approach this is with a sentimental item or family heirloom. For example, how can we take Grandma’s old table and weave it into a modern project in a way that feels natural and thoughtful? It’s fun to achieve this goal and watch as old pieces are given new life! Every home has a story to tell. The story of those who live there. Every home should feel like a sanctuary. These are what we focus on when bringing a concept to fruition.

Q. What is your favorite space in a home to design?

A. The main living spaces, because they revolve around family and entertaining and making memories. Homes are a wonderful way to tell your story and much of that story happens in the main living areas where people gather.

Q. How would you define your personal design style?

A. I’m very eclectic! I love how timeless transitional is, but I’m also drawn to French and coastal and whimsical. With French, it’s classy and timeless. Plus, I just adore florals, which are a significant aspect of French design.

A. (continued) What draws me to coastal is the calm it creates. People often think coastal means blue and white and shells and palms, but it can be so much more than this. In fact, I just sold this chair to a client and love how, when paired with this rug, it immediately pulls coastal and creates a relaxing mood. It’s also a common misconception that coastal = vacation home. This isn’t true. At least not entirely. You can create a coastal getaway right here in landlocked Utah. Why not bring that beachy vibe home and enjoy its soothing impact? You don’t have to be overtly “beach” to take advantage of the soothing effects.

A. (continued) I also have a blast decorating children’s rooms because they are a great space to play with whimsical. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns and prints and vibrant colors.

Q. You mentioned flowers. What are some of your other go-to design favs?

A. Texture is another must when working on a space. Incorporate different finishes to add interest and personality to a space.

A. (continued) Did I happen to mention we just got these AMAZING artificial peonies in? Flowers are a beautiful way to add texture, and artificial flowers are extra nice as we’re heading into the winter months.

Q. What is your favorite color scheme?

A. I’ve always been drawn to blues and pairing various blue shades. There’s just something special about the way blues can cast an immediate calm over a space. Whether it’s gray blues or warm tones, the colors are timeless and never go out of style.

Q. You used to work with new home builds, helping clients select their home fixtures. That can be an overwhelming process. Do you have any advice for someone embarking on a build?

A. Don’t rush to get it all selected. This seems counterintuitive, but it actually helps to finish up some of your selections after the home is done. Live in the space a while. See how you really use it. Let it marinate. You might even want to design one room at a time. Put simply, avoid rash decisions and ditch the idea that it has to all be “done” on move-in day. It’s okay to go slow and build that relationship and understanding first. If that isn’t an option (or even if it is), it’s also always helpful to seek design help from an expert.

Q. Do you have any design takeaways to leave us with today?

A. Less is often more! With that, it can sometimes help to start fresh. If you’re ready for a new look, try taking everything out of a room and slowly adding it back. While you’re at it, don’t be afraid to move stuff around from time to time. See what different placement does. I move stuff around in my home all the time. I love how it gives the area a whole new look. You don’t necessarily need new pieces to create a new feel. Of course, weaving in a few new items from time to time is always fun!

Thank you for the great suggestions, Karaden! It’s clear you know what it’s like to work on new construction as well as updates to an existing space. We love your people/story-first approach and how much heart you put into everything you work on.

Stop by The Black Goose Design and get to know Karaden even more. You’re sure to gain additional valuable insights and have fun exploring your many creative options.

Ready for a lightbulb moment? Adding new lighting fixtures is one of the easiest ways to update the look and feel of your home! Swap out your current options for some of the latest lighting trends and see what a difference it makes. Here are a few of our favorite looks right now at The Black Goose Design.

image: Hudson Valley Lighting

LIGHTING TREND 1: Statement Lighting

Add instant personality and set the tone for the entire room with a statement lighting piece. These fixtures are typically oversized and do more than simply illuminate the room, they lead the room! They create an overhead focal point, adding fun and personality. If long-term commitment fears tend to interfere with your ability to make interior modifications, this is a lovely entry point. After all, you can always change out your fixture if you decide it’s time for something new. In other words, don’t hesitate to select a look that’s really going to make a statement!

image: Hudson Valley Lighting

image: Palecek

LIGHTING TREND 2: Black & Gold Fixtures

For a modern look, choose fixtures in the two leading neutrals -- black and gold! The resulting contrast adds  sophistication that looks amazing in just about any area of the home.

image:Palecek

image: Made Goods

LIGHTING TREND 3: Warm Tones

The heat has officially been turned up in the world of design. From cool whites and greys, the pendulum has swung to warmer hues and nature's influence. This includes the look of light fixtures. With the use of warm metals, stone, natural fibers, and rich hues, warmer light creates a cozy and inviting feeling. The same is true for warm lightbulbs.

 image: Made Goods

image: Made Goods

LIGHTING TREND 4: Accent Lights

Bitty lights can make a big imapact! Try adding smaller lighting options and watch as it elevates your space. Here are a few of our favorite accent options:

• Picture Lights
• Sconces
• Cabinet Lights
• Lamps

image: Hudson Valley Lighting

image:Palecek

There you have it! We our hope our list of lighting trends for Fall 2023 help light your way as you make your design plans. Stop by The Black Goose Design today to discuss a unique plan for illuminating your space with the addition of new lights. 

The Las Vegas Market just wrapped for another season. Being Vegas in July, it only makes sense that the trends are all about warmth. Take a look at what's catching our eye. We’re excited to bring these looks to The Black Goose Design in the coming weeks and months!

Just in time for fall, we’re seeing cozy colors, including: 

• Warm Whites & Creams
• Caramel
• Browns
• Reds
• Oranges
• Greens

Texture is still the name of the trend game. Take a look at this fabulous faux fur!

Wood finishes are full of character with rich finishes and deep tones.

Speaking of furniture, curve is the word with interesting shapes and rounded corners. 

Finally, expect floor-to-ceiling warmth with must-have rugs and light fixtures.

We feel so inspired and ready to welcome these soothing styles to The Black Goose Design. Stop by and see them for yourself soon. If you have a question about a specific item shown here, please don't hesitate to give us a call at 801.562.1933 We can give you more info over the phone and let you know when the item is scheduled to arrive. 

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

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

ROOM TO WORK

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

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

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

ROOM FOR WORK

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

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

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

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

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

TIMELESSNESS

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

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

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

The original windows were another story.

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

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

YOUR TURN

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

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

WORD TO THE WISE

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

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

SEE FOR YOURSELF

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

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

All photography by Lindsay Salazar.

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

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

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

Learn how this statement wall came to be here. 

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

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

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

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

The wood clouds add variety to this overhead idea.

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

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

OTHER CUSTOM WORK

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

SMART DESIGN

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

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

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

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

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

BEFORE AND AFTER

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

What a difference a year makes! 

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

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

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

To this!?

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

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

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

COMPANY CORE VALUES

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

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

FASHION

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

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

PERFORMANCE

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

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

ENVIRONMENT

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

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

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

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

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

A LEASING LESSON

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

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

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

CUSTOM WORK 

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

SPECIAL THANKS

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

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

Where should I hang my art? What about my mirrors? At The Black Goose Design, we get asked these questions all the time. It’s easy to understand why this is a common conundrum. After all, a blank wall is a big space to tackle. Hanging height can make or break the look. Fortunately, we’re here to help with our top 10 placement pointers. Thanks for hanging out!

TIP 1: Sight Before Height

This, of course, makes sense for mirrors. If a mirror is placed too high, it becomes useless. But did you know the same is true for art? When hanging an art piece, a wise rule of thumb is to place the midpoint of the picture about 57" from the floor. Depending on the size of the art this can vary, but this should keep the focal point at eye level, where it can be most enjoyed. After all, nobody wants to kink their neck to take in the sights.

photo credit: Universal Furniture 

TIP 2: Become One with the Art

Okay, this advice is actually for your furniture, but we’re all for any Zen appreciation you have for your surroundings. In this instance, we encourage you to create a single unit between your wall hanging and the surrounding structures. Where you hang your items makes all the difference. If pieces on the wall are too far from the furniture, it will feel disjointed and like two separate collections. Grouping them together provides a more collected collection.

photo credit: Universal Furniture 

When hanging something above a console, for example, we recommend defaulting to 4-10" above. Again, this distance can differ a bit depending on the size of the art or the height of the accessories on the console, but less than a foot is typically pleasing and unifying. The same is true when hanging items above sofas and other significant pieces.

TIP 3: Center-Shmenter

Okay, so this isn’t exactly a technical term, but we want to bust the belief that everything has to be directly centered between the floor and the ceiling. Let’s say, for example, you have 10’ ceilings and a 5’ headboard. You don’t want to also center your art at headboard level. Nor do you want to center wall pieces at equal distance between the headboard and the ceiling. Going back to our previous tip, this could feel disjointed. Instead, sticking with this example, hang the item(s) approximately 4-8” above the headboard. Rather than finding your perfect floor-to-ceiling center, consider the surrounding items and place accordingly.

photo credit: Universal Furniture 

TIP 4: Purpose First

A mirror is often a beautiful art installment all on its own, but it pulls double duty as a tool. When adding a full-length mirror to the home – something super on trend at the moment, BTW – put function first. Position the mirror in such a way that it will reflect your full reflection back. Seems obvious, but you’d be amazed at how quickly mirror placement can go wrong. This is no reflection on the home owner. It’s an easy mistake to make. Avoid it by always putting function first.

TIP 5: All Hail Scale

When choosing an art piece, you want it to be a minimum of 2/3 the width of the furniture piece it is going over. Anything smaller and you would need multiple items to create a sense of balance. Of course, you don’t want to go too far in the opposite direction either. If the wall art is wider than the furniture beneath, it could feel too heavy and looming.

photo credit: Hooker Furniture 

TIP 6: Let It Lean

Who says you have to hang your accents? We’re all about the perch. Art can be set on a piece of furniture or leaned up against the wall. It’s still a good idea to secure your item(s) to the wall for safety’s sake.

TIP 7: The Stack Is Where It’s At

If you aren’t hanging and are instead placing, give the layered look a try. We love stacked art. Whether you place art in front of art or slightly overlapping a mirror, the collected look introduces interest and depth.

photo credit: Universal Furniture 

TIP 8: Remain Seated, Please

In dining rooms, you are sitting much of the time, making this one space in the home where you’ll want to hang things a little lower than is otherwise considered normal. Lower placement brings the pieces closer to eye level for seated guests.

photo credit: Universal Furniture 

TIP 9: Won’t You Be My Neighbor

When hanging a group of pictures, make sure to hang them between 2-4" inches apart. Anything more and items begin to feel disjointed and floaty. Again, this is all about helping the collection come together.

TIP 10: Common Margin Magic

The eye appreciates balance, which is why it’s never a bad idea to create equal spacing around your grouped art. By this, we mean common margins from one item to the next and on all sides. For example, if you have a mirror grouped with a canvas grouped with a framed photo, keep the spacing between each equal. This is especially important when creating a collage wall with numerous pieces. The margins above, below, and in between each item should be the same. Yes, like any rule, there are exceptions to this, but common margins are a smart place to start if you’re unsure of placement.

photo credit: Hooker Furniture 

Bonus Tip: If you need a margins guide, painters tape is the tops. Add strips between your pieces when hanging for consistent spacing.

Thanks for hanging out today! We hope this roundup of our top 10 placement pointers will take the guesswork out of bringing your walls to life with art and mirrors. If you remain unsure or would simply like to discuss options, stop by The Black Goose Design. We’d love to take a look at your unique space and offer suggestions.

A sofa is a significant investment, so it’s important you do your homework. Consider this your place to start when it comes to prepping for your purchase – how to choose the right fabric. Our team at The Black Goose Design has prepared a list of dos and don’ts to remember when it comes time to shop for your next sectional, sofa, or any other upholstered piece.

FABRIC DOS 

Consider Your Sitters

If kiddos or pets will be regular resters on your sofa, performance fabrics are the way to go. Each brand of performance fabrics has different qualities, so you should look into each to determine what is best for your space. If you aren’t sure where to begin, give us a call or stop by to discuss your performance options.

Here’s the Rub

Fabrics go through what is called an abrasion test, which determines the durability of the fabric. The results are referred to as double rubs. A low number of double rubs means the fabric wears through quickly and will not be a great sofa/sectional option. Anything over 40,000 double rubs falls into the “heavy” category and should be a good option.

FABRIC DON’TS 

Clean is King

Any fabric that is not cleanable is one to avoid. Yes, this seems pretty obvious, but it’s always good to double check a fabric’s cleanability factor.  

Viscose Can Be Vicious

High viscose quantity won’t hold up well to stains of any kind, so you’ll want to do your research in this area.

High Maintenance

Some fabrics will pile and require being shaved every so often. If you don't want to shave your sofa, make sure to ask for fabrics that are lower maintenance in the shaving department.

FINAL FABRIC THOUGHT

This one can sound silly, but consider what looks and feels like you, even if it’s not on trend or in all the home décor magazines. Truth is, we all have our personal preferences. With those, it’s important to remember that different fabric types can wear differently. Velvet, for example, often looks more formal, while linen feels more casual. Selecting a fabric that aligns with the style of your home and those who live there is your best bet. We just encourage you to do a little research in the process to ensure you’re getting something you adore that also stands the test of time. If you’re unsure, the designers at The Black Goose Design can help steer you in the right direction. Stop by today to see fabric swatches, do some test sitting on our sofas, and walk away confident you’re ready to make an informed decision. 

If we could describe the 2023 High Point Market in one word, it would be… TEXTURE. This fingertip treat was large and in charge at this season’s buyers’ market. We can’t wait to get our hands on the enticing assortment headed to The Black Goose Design in the coming weeks. Here’s just a small sampling of what you can expect, as well as a few texture tips to know going into this 2023 show-stopper.

TEXTURE TIP 1: Keep it Clean

Because textures are often fabric in finish, it’s a common misconception that texture = hard to clean. While there are times when this can be the case, it’s less of a concern with high-end furniture. Many of the new gems coming soon are “performance fabrics,” which means they’re made to be used AND cleaned.

TEXTURE TIP 2: Get Set for Depth

A big reason texture is gaining in popularity is its ability to instantly add depth to any space. By incorporating a variety of finishes, you’ll notice your room springs to life in a more dynamic way.

TEXTURE TIP 3: Pattern Alternative

If you love the idea of variety but prefer solids and neutrals to prints, texture is tops! It mixes things up in a way all its own with or without the help of a pattern.

TEXTURE TIP 4: Count On Color

A newer take on texture comes in the form of color. Neutral finishes such as sherpa, wool, and other classic options are now coming out in rich hues, taking texture to new and vibrant heights.

Which texture is your favorite? Stop by The Black Goose Design soon to see AND FEEL these tactile treasures.

Let’s get straight to the point… High Point Furniture Market. We’ve just returned from this annual trip to High Point, North Carolina, and our team at The Black Goose Design is filling energized and excited! We can’t wait to share the good things coming your way in this two-part recap. Welcome to Part 1 of our High Point Highlights!

COLOR IS KEY

The last few market/buying trips we’ve made have proven color is the comeback queen, and this show was no exception! The colors that caught our eye at High Point are greens, reds, oranges, and blues.

Chair by Wesley Hall 

We always love seeing blue on the list because it pulls double duty as a color boost AND a calming neutral option.

For a brighter take on these earth-inspired shades, fuscia is an on-trend choice!

PATTERN, PLEASE

We’re coming out of the season of solids and seeing more patterns at play. New, BOLD patterns are in! You’ll start to see more of these statement stars in pillows, furniture, art, and wallpaper.

Sofa by Wesley Hall

Even the wall art is taking things up a notch.

PATTERN PAIRS

A newer approach to pattern that we’re loving is pattern pairing. For example, this can be done by mixing more than one wallpaper in a single room, with one design on one wall and another on another. Bold? Yes! Amazing? Absolutely! The trick to remember is considering your pattern’s weight/scale. If one print is very large or busy, opt for a smaller or more symmetrical look as its counterpart. This helps the two complement rather than compete.

Sectional by Wesley Hall 

CRAZY FOR CURVES

Also on the softer side, we’re taking our straight lines for a curve. The blunt, linear look is being offset with movement.

Chairs by Lee Industries

We also spotted unique furniture configuration, like the larger cushion at the center of this sectional.

From color works and pattern play to shapely finds and more movement, t’s easy to see why this trip to High Point Furniture Market was an annual highlight.

Stop by The Black Goose Design over the next few weeks to see these and other new looks start to hit our showroom floor. Plus, don’t forget to join us right back here on May 17, 2023 for part two of our High Point Highlights. Next time, we’re talking a trend taking the design world by storm. You won’t want to miss it!

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

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

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

BEDROOM: YELLOW

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

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

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

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

BATHROOM: MULTI COLOR

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

EARTHY ACCESSORIES

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

Whether real or artificial, plants sprinkle in vitality.

FENG SHUI TAKEAWAY

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

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

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

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

FENG SHUI COLOR CODE

The Feng Shui philosophy breaks colors up into five groups.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ENTRY: BLUES

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

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

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

FENG SHUI TAKEAWAY

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

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

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

All images in this post provided by Lindsay Salazar Photography.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All images in this post provided by Lindsay Salazar Photography.

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

ENTRY EXPERTISE

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

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

GREAT EXPECTATIONS

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

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

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

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

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

ACCESSORIZING ADVICE

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

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

BOOK SMARTS

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

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

ADDING TO EXISTING

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

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

A PLACE TO GATHER

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

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

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

MORE IN STORE

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

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

White is white… right? No, actually. White comes in various shades, tones, and temps, which can make choosing the right white tricky. Your friends at The Black Goose Design are here to help. We’ve rounded up our favorite white paint picks for 2023 and added why we love them and where they work well. Take a look, take notes, and find out which will be your fav takeaway.

Monica Woodland, one of our talented designers, has a three-way tie for her top white likes.

SWISS COFFEE by Benjamin Moore

“This is my number one go-to white. It looks great with modern, transitional, traditional, cottage, farmhouse... Really, it goes with everything. It is not a cool, stark white, but warm without being beige or yellow. It is a great color to use to take a space from dated and tired, to fresh and updated.”

We recently painted one of our showrooms at The Black Goose Design using this striking white. What a difference a coat of paint makes to the overall feel of this room! 

SNOWBOUND by Sherwin Williams

“You don't have to tell me white isn't a color. It has so much depth to offer. Around here, Snowbound has become a staple. The reason I'm drawn to its clean, bright aesthetic is because of its ability to match the variety of white tiles and look sharp against grays, taupes, and blacks without feeling like a blinding bright white. This is all thanks to its gray undertones. I used Snowbound in a whole house to provide a clean backdrop for inherited artwork and collected accessories, which helped make everything feel more cohesive and every random piece feel special.”

 

EGRET by Sherwin Williams

“Although the color says "white," if placed next to a brighter white like Sherwin Williams Snowbound, you can tell that Egret has a nice light taupe tone to it. I especially love this color in homes with darker stained cabinets and accents, as it brings everything into balance without making the color scheme feel too hot and cold. This shade provides a subtle hint of warmth without being completely white.”

Ashley Dawson is all about the versatility her selection offers. 

CITY LOFT by Sherwin Williams

“I like that this paint color can pull towards warm or cool tones depending on what you fill the space with. Overall, it is just a cozy off-white.”

Olga Liu, another talented designer, has a two-way tie for her top spots.

ALABASTER by Benjamin Moore

“This is a great option when you’re looking for something that’s more of an off-white.”

WHITE DOVE by Benjamin Moore

“This has a beautiful warmth to it and makes the space feel cozy and inviting.”

Denise Van Ekelenburg, one of our senior designers, has two go-to whites as well.

ALABASTER by Sherwin Williams

“This is a great trim white and also great for walls and kitchen cabinets. Depending on the sheen, you could use it in the same space.”

EIDER WHITE by Sherwin Williams

“This is a ‘white’ that shows you different sides of itself depending on the time of the day, which is fun. No matter when you view it, it comes off very warm and plays well with brighter whites. It’s also a great exterior color to mix with rocks and stucco.”

Kylie Cardwel, our assistant manager and designer,l adds a second vote to two of the whites already mentioned.

SNOWBOUND by Sherwin Williams

“This white is a perfect soft white that can be used to create a calming and tranquil atmosphere. The taupe undertone brings warmth, helping to create a good balance between that cold whiteness and yellow-ish white. This would be a great option for a well-lit bedroom or kitchen.”

ALABASTER by Sherwin Williams

This is a classic go-to white, offering the brightness of white without being too stark or sacrificing a warm and cozy feel. The beige undertone brings a soft white and would be a great neutral to pair with versatile colors.”

Georgia Kendall, general manager of The Black Goose Design, also has one of her selections in common with a fellow team member, as well as a new shade to put on your list. 

SUPER WHITE by Benjamin Moore

“This is a great bright white. I used this on an exterior project, and it went well with the bright white soffit and fascia on the home. It creates a crisp, clean finish.”

WHITE DOVE by Benjamin Moore

“This is a cozy white. With a little more of a warm grey undertone, this white can really brighten up a space without being too white. I use this on walls and trim.”

There you have it. Our list of go-to color catalog of whites to try during 2023. To see swatch samples and how they might pair with your painting plans, stop by The Black Goose Design in Midvale, Utah and chat with one of our team members today.

It’s one of our favorite times of the year at The Black Goose Design – Market Season! We’ve just returned from the Las Vegas Market and have your first look at the good things coming your way!

VINTAGE-STYLE ART

We have a new art line coming in that specializes in vintage-inspired prints. These smaller art pieces are great for any area of your home and can be ordered in different sizes and frames.

A TREAT FOR THE FEET

New rugs are rolling in! You’ll find a bunch of new wool options, as well as fun polyester runners. The runners are durable and come at a great price point, making it easy to switch up your look.

ACCESSORIES, IF YOU PLEASE

Now's the best time to buy new accessories for the home. We have new options arriving nearly every day, giving you a wide assortment to choose from!

NATURAL WONDERS

You’ll see more organic styles this upcoming season. From earthy colors to outdoor-inspired materials, it’s a beautiful time to bring the outdoors in!

OUR FAVORITE

Nah. We can’t choose just one item to love, but we're a little extra excited about all of the new art coming in. We think you’re going to love it too! Stop by The Black Goose Design soon, and see what stands out as your new must-have! 

We’ve all seen those model home beds. Perfectly made. Fabulously fluffed. Every detail fits so seamlessly and effortlessly together. It all seems simple enough, so why do these display beds so often have something our own beds are lacking? It could be something as simple as incorrect sheets or, gasp, too many pillows.

Our team at The Black Goose Design is here with five simple tips that will take your bed-making to designer levels. 

TIP 1: SHEET DEETS

It all starts at the foundation with properly fitting sheets. Just because this layer is hiding behind the scenes doesn’t mean it’s not worth investing in quality and the right fit. This may sound silly, but ill-fitting sheets can leave the rest of the bed looking and feeling sloppy.

TIP 2: BIG NEWS

A quick way to make a bed feel full and inviting is with pillows, but this can get cumbersome. The solution is fewer pillows in larger sizes. They’ll fill the space beautifully without creating a cluttered feel.

Dutch Euros are our favorite! They’re the length of a king-size pillow and about the height of a regular Euro. Two fit perfectly across a king bed, or you can place one on a twin for a fresh fullness and designer detail.

TIP 3: LET’S LAYER 

Layer, layer, layer. One layer simply won’t do. Two will give your bed some depth and allow you to add another color or texture, but three really is the magic number.

Masterful layering is as simple as 1, 2, 3:

1. A nice base layer
2. A duvet folded at the bottom
3. A textured throw across the bottom

TIP 4: TIE WITH TEXTURE

Use pillows, throws, and quilts to introduce texture.

Texture doesn’t have to come from the feel of the fabric. Patterns also work as a texture treat. The floral pattern on this bed ties the colors together and offers a unique resting place.

On the opposite end, you can even introduce texture using solids.

Can’t decide? Try combining both and mixing patterns. When going this route, think in scale – small, medium, and large. Using two patterns of the same size will have the patterns competing for your attention. It’s best to vary the sizes.

TIP 5: LOVE IT

Your bedroom is your most personal space in the home. Select bedding elements that hold significance for you. Perhaps it’s a quilt your cousin made, a throw you inherited, or a decorative pillow you picked up when you bought your first home. If you like the way the item looks, it’s good. If you like the way the item makes you feel, it’s GREAT.

Don’t hit snooze. Visit The Black Goose Design in Midvale, Utah today and check out our impressive assortment of bedding essentials and put these tips to work in your room today. A restful night’s sleep is sure to follow tonight.

Sweet dreams! 

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:

• A shoe catch-all, strategically placed near the entry of your home. Say goodbye to the clutter and hello to a welcoming doorway.
• A blanket bank. Having a few extra throws nearby is always a good idea, but it’s extra wise this chilly time of year. Use your big baskets to house the heat.
• A toy box. Add a few large baskets to the main living areas of your home and keep toys within arm’s reach… even those little arms. Plus, this makes clean up a breeze and something everyone can help with.
• Pillow placement. Whether you’re tucking away seasonal accent pillows currently in the off season or you place baskets near your bed for nightly use when it’s time to set those dreamy bed pillows aside, baskets are great for keeping the fluffy stuff contained.

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:

• Some extra sofa storage. They’re often referred to as sofa tables for a reason – they line up nicely behind a sofa or sectional. This means you have more room to store things like the remotes, chargers, pens, and other go-to items you like to have on hand without being out in the open.
• A welcoming place to place. Entryways are often narrower than the rest of the home, making a sleek piece like this an ideal option. It provides a place for car keys, handbags/backpacks, homework, water bottles, and other frequently-used on-the-go elements. Of course, nobody wants a pile of packs greeting them as they walk in the door, which is why we love adding closed containers like these wood boxes to the lower level of entry tables. They’re the prime spot for such everyday essentials.
• A hallway helper. Another narrow spot that sometimes need a little support is the hallway. If your walkway is large enough to support a slim addition, you could make this a central location for frequently-used household items (scissors, pens, paper, tape, chargers, batteries, schedules/planners, passes/library cards/etc., permission slips, shopping lists and more.

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:

• Your office assistant. Whether you opt for a tall cabinet or a horizontal style, you'll find a cabinet makes a fine office companion. Add some pretty books, plants, and other decorative touches for style, and use boxes for the less attractive office supplies. 
• A kitchen keeper. Because cabinets are often open or have glass doors, it’s a good idea to be intentional with the items you select. Think of pieces that not only serve you well but look good while doing it. Examples include your beloved dishes, cake stands, barware, pretty mixing/serving bowls, candle sticks, trays, etc.

NOTE: Look for a cabinet with drawers for smaller or less eye-catching items, such as linens, cutlery, and other go-to items.

• A TV ta-da! The television is a common gathering place, so it might as well look its best. Add a horizontal cabinet as a chic TV stand and place key entertainment items inside. For things that don’t really fit your design aesthetic, add small boxes and baskets. Abracadabra, the unsightly clutter is gone (but never out of reach!).
• Your playroom partner. A horizontal cabinet is also a smart choice in a playroom, as it’s close to the ground, which helps with accessibility and safety. This is another time when baskets and bins come in handy and make sorting different toy types easier. With a long, lean storage machine such as this, you can have baskets for art supplies, blocks, dolls, toy cars, stuffed animals, play food, dress-up supplies, and so much more. Let your storage dreams run wild!

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! 

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

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

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

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

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

OUR HISTORY (and a special memorium)

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

OUR CHALLENGE

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

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

OUR SOLUTIONS

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

New Walls

Reinforced Walls

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

Dropped Ceilings

Pardon Our Dust

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

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

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!). 

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.

Tree Tip 1: Balance your size. Include larger items (stems, large bulbs, paper chains, etc.), medium elements (traditional bulbs, trims, etc.), and small elements (lights, tinsel, etc.). Thinking in this S/M/L way helps the tree feel balanced. 

Tree Tip 2: Once your tree is lit, start with a few key large items and then fill in with medium and small items.

Tree Tip 3: Blend a few new favs (if you wish) with some classic family favs to keep your tree feeling special and uniquely yours.

Tree Tip 4: If you love the look of a tall tree but don’t have one, place the tree on a small end table. Use a stylish tree skirt or throw (we love faux fir at the bottom of a tree!) to disguise the left. Not only will this give your tree a boost, it leaves more room to easily get to the gifts beneath.

Tree Tip 5: Flock is fun. If you're looking for extra texture, consider this cool faux snow option.

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! 

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.

image credit: photo by Wesley Hall

Ready to think pink? Stop by The Black Goose Design today, and we’ll help you find your perfect pink match.

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. 

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. 

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DESIGNING A COMMERCIAL SPACE

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

1. MORE EYES ON THE PRIZE

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

2. FIRST IMPRESSIONS ARE EVERYTHING

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

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

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

3. EXPECT PERAMETERS

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

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

4. CONSIDER CUSTOMS

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

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

5. DESIGN WITHIN DESIGN

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

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

6. DESIGN TO ENHANCE INVENTORY

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

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

THE SWEET OUTCOME

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

ON A MOM CALM MISSION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!  

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

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

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

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

BELL CANYON FAVORITE FEATURES 

FAV FEATURE: The Front DOOR

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

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

FAV FEATURE: The Cantllever Decks

These statement areas are extensions of the interior living space.

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

image credit: Coldwell Banker Homes

DESIGN IDEAS TO TRY

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

IDEA TO TRY: RULE OF THIRDS(ish)

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

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

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

IDEA TO TRY: ADD OTTOMANS

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

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

TIMELINE TIP TO REMEMBER

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

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

ONE MORE LOOK

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

REQUEST REMODEL ASSISTANCE

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

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

Lindsay Salazar Photo

COLLABORATION = COMPLETION

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

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

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

BEFORE 

AFTER

Lindsay Salazar Photo

BEFORE

AFTER

Lindsay Salazar Photo

BEFORE

AFTER

 Lindsay Salazar Photo

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

Lindsay Salazar Photo

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

FAVORITE FEATURE

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

FAV FEATURE: Surroundings that Inspire

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

Lindsay Salazar Photo

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

 Lindsay Salazar Photo

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

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

Lindsay Salazar Photos

DESIGN IDEA TO TRY

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

EXPAND YOUR ART

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

Lindsay Salazar Photos

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

HOME FOR SALE

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

REQUEST REMODEL ASSISTANCE

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

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

photos by Lindsay Salazar

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

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

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

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

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

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

A WARM & WELCOMING PLACE 

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

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

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

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

Home: Marx/Herr Residence

The Black Goose Design Team Member: Del Reanne Lucas Wilson

Photography: Lindsay Salazar

Project Timeframe: 20 months

Home Style: …It’s complicated

HOME STYLE

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

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

HOW TO BLEND STYLES

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

BOLD BLOOMS

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

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

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

FEMININE FABRIC

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

THE RESULT

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

WOW!

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

WALK-IN CLOSET

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

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

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

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

OFFICE

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

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

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

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

GUEST RETREATS

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

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

SEE YOU SOON (on May 25 to be exact)

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

BRING THIS LOOK HOME

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

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  

WOOL

Placement: High-traffic areas, such as entryways, living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms.

Quality: Extremely durable.

Avoid: Outdoor usage — wool is best for indoor use.

Pricing: Varies, depending on construction. Machine-made is the less expensive option, while hand tufted means a price increase.

Maintenance: Wool will shed but does so less and less with time. You can vacuum wool, making it easy to clean.

Note: Hand-knotted wool rugs will sprout. When this happens, simply trim the pulled areas with scissors.

Cotton

Placement: Great in high and low traffic areas.

Quality: Durable, lightweight, and soft.

Pricing: Pricing varies depending on construction, pattern, and blends. Cotton is typically less expensive than wool.

Maintenance: Hand wash or professional cleaning. 

Note: This is typically a thinner rug, which makes it great for layering!

Jute

Placement: Great in high and low traffic areas, both inside and out (when under a covered porch). 

Quality: Durable.

Maintenance: Jute can be “dusty” and frequently shed. Avoid spot cleaning. 

Note: Jute rugs are dyed with vegetable oil, which means they’ll fade in the sun. Avoid putting them in direct sunlight.

Polyester

Placement: Best in high to low-traffic areas.

Quality: Durable, but not as durable as their wool counterparts.

Pricing: Inexpensive option when wool is out of your price range. Offer the look of a high-end traditional rug without the price tag.

 

Polypropylene

Placement: Great for indoor/outdoor use.

Quality: Durable.

Maintenance: Can be hosed off and cleaned with diluted bleach.

 

Viscose

Placement: Great in lower traffic areas, such as bedrooms

Quality: Durable and soft but does not tolerate spills well.

Avoid: Getting it wet.

Maintenance: Any liquid, including water, can discolor a viscose rug. Avoid damp forms of cleaning.

Note: This is the softest rug you can get your feet on. If you love the idea of walking on butter, you’ll love a viscose rug.           

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! 

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.

What We Love About the Traditional Trend

• Prove classic and classy can still be light

• Pieces you can have in your home for years to come

• These looks blend beautifully with numerous design styles and looks

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! 

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! :)

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

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

COLOR IS KEY

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

BEFORE 

AFTER

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

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

IN A BASEMENT BIND

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

BEFORE

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

 AFTER

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

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

WHERE OLD MEETS NEW

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

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

MODERN TRADITIONAL

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

SPACE ON THE MOVE

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

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

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

A FAMILY RETREAT

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

BEFORE

AFTER

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

TAKEAWAY TIP

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

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

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

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.

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!

image credit: Four Hands

WHY NATURAL?

1. It’s warm. Weaving in natural elements, such as warm wood tones, helps break up the white on white we saw so much of in years past.
2. There’s a big trend toward simplification, and embracing elements naturally found around us represents getting back to our roots.
3. Mother Nature provides looks that are calming, and evergreen. Shades of blue and green create a calming effect, have mass appeal, and look great all year long!

image credit: Four Hands

image credit: Loloi

NATURALLY SPEAKING

Here are a few of the MANY ways nature-inspired looks are appearing in interior design:

• Natural woods
• Earth tones
• Greens (real plants and artificial options)
• Plant-based textures (bamboo, rattan, etc.)
• Feathers and grasses
• Stone

image credit: Hooker Furniture 

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?

image credit: Loloi

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! 

image credit: Hooker Furniture 

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:

• A tall furniture item, such as a cabinet or
• Draperies
• Floor lamp
• Plants: Why should evergreens have all the fun? Try a faux tree. Olive is one of our favs! (available at The Black Goose Design). If you have a green thumb, you can always go for the real deal, which is good for you and good looking!

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:

• Add a throw to your sofa
• Try new throw pillows on for size
• Update an area rug

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:

• Drapery panels on larger windows
• Roman shades in the kitchen

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.

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

My favorite Christmas tradition is getting together with my whole family on Christmas Eve for our holiday dinner party. After dinner, we give a homemade gift to the person whose name we drew on Thanksgiving. We’ve been doing this for 10 years now, and it’s amazing how creative we have gotten over the years! I love this not only because it’s a very heartfelt way to give, but also because it gives us a chance to see what we’re capable of doing when we give ourselves the time. —Sam Atkinson

Every Christmas Eve, after our family dinner, we would drive around the neighborhoods and parks to look at all the lights. My parents would let us sit on their laps (not something we’d get away with these days LOL) and bring hot cocoa. It was a great way to end the night before Christmas! —Rachel Corbett

My favorite Christmas activity is to decorate trees!  It’s a big family tradition accompanied by hot chocolate and popcorn.  And then I decorate clients‘  trees also, just to spread the fun and joy!  So many trees, so little time! —Del Reanne Lucas-Wilson

I’m a coastal at heart, so I love incorporating that seaside vibe into my holiday decorating. Here, you can see that sneaky little elf of ours decided to take a trip on our sailboat one year. He was always a fun tradition. My adult kids still ask about him every year. —Denise Johnson

Growing up, my dad would spend the majority of every December asking my siblings and I what our most memorable moments of the year were. He would then create homemade ornaments out of clay to represent those moments so we could look back and reflect! After Thanksgiving, we would haul up the ornaments from all the previous years and decorate our tree. As we took each one out, we’d reflect on all the memories they held. Once Christmas Eve came around, we would go out to dinner, go home to play cards, and receive our new ornament for that year! —Madi Johnson

Christmas traditions... So many come to mind! Making gingerbread houses, Nutcracker performances, and ski trips, to name a few. My favorite, though, just happens to overlap with my birthday. I often hear friends tell me how much they dislike celebrating their birthday in December, but I love it!! After all, it's the most wonderful time of the year! On (or near) my birthday, my family and I will go out to dinner to celebrate. We then bundle up and walk Main Street to see the fun Christmas Window displays. We really enjoy Temple Square in downtown Salt Lake; it has the most beautiful Christmas lights and Christmas music playing. And we always stop at the "Giving Machines" to make a donation.  

This meaningful Christmas/birthday tradition has made lasting memories with my family! —Monica Woodland

My family’s Christmas tradition is to get a real tree. We have two little girls who are making the tradition more and more fun every year. We let them pick the tree and then take it home and decorate it together as a family. —Georgia Kendall

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

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: 

“Our annual celebration of color is the result of a yearlong exploration into design, art, fashion, cultural and environmental influences around the globe. From Benjamin Moore’s library of over 3,500 colors, we carefully curate a Color Trends palette that balances modern-day relevance with long-lasting appeal. At the center is one special hue that defines the palette—and the moment: the Color of the Year.”

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! 

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.

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! 

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

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!

See more of this stunning Canyons Home reveal here. 

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!

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…

• Attended
• Engineered
• Finished
• Hand Tied
• Cut
• Sewn
• Crafted
• Upholstered
• Detailed
• Perfected

“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! 

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. 

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!

First, a few important things to note:

1. You can see this home in person now through June 19, 2021 at the Utah Valley Parade of Homes.

2. The House That SHE Built is just what its name suggests, a home engineered, built, and designed exclusively by women. Construction has always been a male-dominated field, and this home is opening doors in more ways than one! Read more about it here.

3. All of the beautiful photos featured in this post were taken by Amanda Peterson Photography.

4. This home is for sale! Interested? Check out the MLS listing. 

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! 

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:  

• Add color
• Present pattern possibility
• Create texture
• Soften external noise
• Increase insulation
• Reduce internal noise (echo, vibration)
• Provide privacy
• Enhance or block light (depending on finish)

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:

• Functioning window treatments that are opened and closed regularly
• High/tall windows
• Heavy panels/curtains

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.

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.

Always decorate to your tastes first. Trends come and go, but your unique likes reflect you and, therefore, serve as a source of joy.

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!

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!

“I have always loved construction and design,” Randi shared. “It’s in the fiber of who I am. I love being able to use my experience and talents to help others design their dream homes.”

“I’ve been in the field of design for over 20 years and have worked on every aspect of building a house,” Denise added. “But being a part of this particular project is extra special. I’m so proud of the work everyone is doing and the hearts behind that work!”

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! 

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.   

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. 

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! 

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! 

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:

• Softened Green by Sherwin Williams
• Frosted Fern by Sherwin Williams
• At Ease Soldier by Sherwin Williams

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:

• Moderne White by Sherwin Williams
• Oat Milk by Sherwin Williams 

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!

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

Q. What is your favorite room to design?

A. My favorite space is any one I’m currently working on. Each has so much to offer, making every design experience special and memorable.

 

Q. What do you feel sets you apart as a designer?

Q. I’m really good at pinpointing a person’s style. More often than not, clients are unsure about what it is they like. Nurturing them through this part of the process is one of my favorite things to do. It’s how I connect to my client and also how I help my client connect to our theme and process.

 

Q. What is one go-to design tip you like to share with clients?

A. Don’t be afraid to branch out and explore possibilities before you make design decisions.

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. 

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. 

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.

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:

MOUNTAIN: Walnut stain

MODERN: Front door design

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.”

MOUNTAIN: Wood trim

MODERN: Metal accents

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.

MOUNTAIN: Stone mantel

MODERN: Linear beams

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!

MOUNTAIN: Plants

MODERN: Planters

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.

TAKEAWAY TIP #1: Find your common denominator

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.”  

TAKEAWAY TIP #2: Create something all your own

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!

TAKEAWAY TIP #3: Expand your seating

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

TAKEAWAY TIP #4: Bring the backsplash to the bathroom

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.

TAKEAWAY TIP #5: Keep things light

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. 

TAKEAWAY TIP #6: Embrace subtle asymmetry

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.

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! 

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! 

The Spendlove home tour continues here.

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!

“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: 

• The bedrooms: From the magnificent master to special spots created for family, you’re sure to be inspired!


• The laundry room: It’s pretty difficult to make the task of laundry look appealing, but this space manages to do just that!


• The home theater: Hello, old Hollywood! This space is close-up ready. You won’t believe the before-and-after. 

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. 

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. 

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

image credit: 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. 

image credit: Benjamin Moore

 image credit: Dash & Albert

image credit: Benjamin Moore 

 image credit: Wesley Hall

 

Learn more about Benjamin Moore color forecasting here. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“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:  

• This gorgeous space was built in the early 1900s.
• Nancy Long purchased it in 1985.
• Before The Black Goose Design called it home, this building was the Sharon Steel Smelter mine office building, a rec center, a doctor’s office, and a seamstress shop/drapery workroom.

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: 

• gorgeous windows overhead

• a stylish stairwell running up the building’s center

• lightswitch plates that stand out from today’s flat crowd

• layers of personality peeking through in a spot where the wallpaper has fallen off the wall

• thick brick walls… 

… 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!

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. 

Denise with Gardner Village co-owner, Angie Gerdes.

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