All Forum Posts by: Sara Plaisted

@Braeden Cobb Very cool!  Thank you!

@Braeden Cobb I'm curious about the mattresses... do they retreat back into the space on the other side of the wall (laying flat?), or do they roll/fold up behind the cabinetry on the wall (vertical)?  I just heard someone trying to explain this last month.  Thank you!

Hi David,

I would suggest adding some warmth (great job with the gold!).  Warm white or a soft beige is nice and neutral for cabinets.  Or you could go darker on the lower cabinets for contrast.  Or keep the uppers and lowers the same and contrast the island color.  You may look for a "pre-fab" countertop supplier who sells half slabs (perfect for counters and already fabricated.

Look on Pinterest for a little inspiration and start collecting ideas, then see the common look that you gravitate towards.

If you'd like to hop on a call, I'd be happy to help with some pointers.

I would suggest you do it right the first time, and build new if you can.  The design vision, standards and approach will be much more cohesive and streamlined, giving you more freedom.  Less surprises and less "cooks in the kitchen" over however many years.

I painted the interior of my rental myself on weekends.  It took a bit longer than expected because I was meticulous about caulking and getting the details clean - and I had the time.  However, I paid a contractor to paint the exterior because they also replaced siding, added flashing (waterproofing), sealed it up, and was able to bang it out in a faster timeline.  I would pay them again in a heartbeat because of the added value of weather protection on the home.

I would look into a couple more quotes to give you a broad range, which might make you feel more comfortable in whatever direction you go.  And ask how many gallons they'll need and you provide it.  That would save you a 20% markup on the paint.  Just make sure they have more than enough and it's on site before they want to start.

Oh, I also painted my interior the same warm white from base to crown / ceiling (White Dove by Benjamin Moore, or Swiss Coffee by Sherwin Williams/Benjamin Moore) 

I've also been looking for Builders and Contractors to partner or collaborate with because I want to develop a Design | Build team that is efficient, streamlined and cohesive.  

Hi Matthew,

I second the idea of skimming through the beautiful rabbit hole of Pinterest to get ideas and brainstorm. And focus more on your Kitchen, Bathroom, Flooring and Paint (inside and out) for better bang for your buck on your ROI.

As an Interior Designer, I've been working with realtors remotely to help update properties prior to listing.  For most projects, we tend to go with an elevated warm neutral color palette that feels contemporary, fresh and approachable for most buyers.  Of course, some areas have a little more room for play.

Warm white walls, like Benjamin Moore White Dove feels modern and clean with a slight putty undertone.  Or Swiss Coffee (any brand), which is also warm.  Eggshell finish.

Trims and Doors in a clean white, like Simply White, in Satin Finish.
Ceilings in Simply White, Eggshell Finish.

If you'd like to paint your Kitchen Cabinets, since they're in pretty good shape, a nice greige (grey beige) or dark taupe is nice.  You could think about painting the uppers in a warm white or light beige, just a skootch darker than the walls.  Or paint the perimeter cabinets in a warm white and accent the island in another darker color for a contrast that feels like it's a piece of furniture.

Black Door Lever Hardware and Plumbing Hardware, Cabinet Hardware, Accents and Light Fixtures are a nice pop that feels modern and cohesive.  Black is also more affordable than the gold, but if you're budgeted for Gold, it does give a great warmth to a Kitchen and Bath, and can be paired with the black you have going on.

I agree about leaving one bath for resale, unless the tub is in another bathroom?  When you replace the wall tile and shower fixtures - Larger scale tiles (24x48) should be more affordable on labor, less grout and easy to clean.  Smaller scale tiles (subway, 4x4 or decorative 12x12) add texture, dimension and excitement.

Lastly, a PSA about lighting. Please make sure all the bulb temperatures throughout the house are the same so that it feels inviting and cohesive from room to room.  It's a subtle annoyance that may be subconscious to most people. This goes for Recessed Cans, Sconces, Pendants, Chandeliers, Lamps, Outdoor Lights, etc.  If you can install Dimmer Switches, even better.  Select warm white bulbs or LED cans (preferably 2700k to max max max 3,000k. Anything higher is a harsh, uncomfortable blue light that feels like high noon to our brain).  

If you need anything, feel free to reach out.  I'm happy to help!

Hi @Aaron Kaplan

I'm an Interior Designer and can help you remotely with selections on finish materials, fixtures, lighting, you name it. I can also redesign and draft a complete set of construction drawings, if you have a base drawing or your own sketch to work from.  (Demo, New Walls, Electrical, Reflected Ceiling, Finishes, Elevations, etc).

Getting your foundation designed, organized, and ready to go from the start will help your builder give you a proper bid and hopefully avoid any change orders down the road.

I'm happy to help if you have any questions!  

Sara Plaisted

nook creative co

Welcome @Brittany Allerdyce!  I think you'll be able to help a lot of people here!  Great to have another designer on board!  ; )

Hi @Don M.

I'd love to help you with a light cosmetic update.  I've worked with people remotely and they've been really happy with how their space turned out. If you'd like, let's hop on a call and can see how I can help you.