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Kitchen design is our jam here at SBD. We think there's nothing better than nerding over your kitchen space, discovering the best layout, and filling it with as many pull-outs or other storage aids as possible. Check out our favorite inserts that you can add into your current or future kitchen.  1. Peg Drawers
2. Pull-Out Trash Cans
3. Drawer Dividers
4. Pull-Out StorageWhether it's for a wall, base, or tall cabinets, pull-out storage aids are super handy. These devices are a super functional way to keep pantry items, spices and oils, or even cutlery easily accessible. They come in multiple heights and widths and can even fit within a 3" space making them the best tools to get every square inch of space in your kitchen working for you.
5. Blind Corner Pull-Out
Bonus: Kitchen Storage TipThe Lift-Up Appliance Garage
Here are five essential design features to add this appliance garage in your kitchen.
1. Make this cabinet and the ones above it 15-18” deep rather than the typical 12”, so it fits your deeper appliances. 2. Include 1-2 outlets in the back so you can keep the appliances in the garage without moving them out to plug them in. 3. Add an LED light inside so you don't end up with a dark cave where crumbs can hide. 4. Include a backsplash so everything is easy to clean. 5. These lift-up hinges are only good for shorter cabinets, around 18-20" high. If you want a taller door, then we suggest pocket doors.
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Styling for your |
2023 Trends
Trend 1: Moody AND Colorful Palette
 | Think pine trees glistening with snow, while snuggling next to cozy fires under a deep navy night sky. These colors translate perfectly into my favorite holiday memories and look great together for any fall or winter dinner party. That is right, you are seeing these again. We love when color schemes translate to more than one event. That (hint hint) is how you keep styling on a budget. Scroll down for more insight. |
Trend 2: Glazed Stoneware
| Have you seen those pottery shows? Oh, I could watch them all day. It amazes me how these potters use their artistry and skill to throw a bowl and apply glaze to make some of the coolest reactions and unique patterns. In another life I would be at that potters wheel right now. The beauty found in glazed stoneware is making waves in the interior world. From crackling, to dripping, to cool reactive glazes, these functional pieces of art are being appreciated by more and more people. Not only do they make dynamic dinnerware, you can find beautiful vases for your flowers or multi-piece wall art installations showcasing these techniques. |  |
For our Holiday table we added a glazed plate and bowl that coordinate with the beautiful navy base color, but don't necessarily match. When you are hunting for stoneware, look for similar colors or styles, but feel free to add in pieces that used different techniques to add interest to your table.
Tips for Making this Table Your Own
Tip 1: Repeat and Repurpose | If you checked out our Thanksgiving table design you may have noticed what pieces we repurposed for Christmas. 1. Silverware - I have a set that I inherited from my grandma that we use for holidays. No need to buy new when heirloom pieces are great to use. 2. Cranberry Drinking Glasses - yup those are the same ones we used for Thanksgiving. In fact, they are so fun to use they may be our new daily use glasses. I just love the color, texture, and price. (Scroll to the bottom for links to buy them yourself). 3. Centerpiece Greenery - this piece of simple 5' greenery I bought years ago at Target and it has been repurposed so many times. For this table, I added some different accents like white faux berries, frosted cranberries, and dried fruit. |
Really, you could repurpose a lot from one holiday and use it for the next, especially if you are using the same color scheme. Although we are showing you more ideas, you could easily save some $ and reuse many of the same table setting pieces.
Tip 2: Remember that Texture Adds Depth
Oh the beauty and interest that texture can add to a table. It's the design element that takes your everyday dinner table to a special event. How does one add them correctly?
| First: add lots of different types of texture. Look for both visual and actual texture. See the great glazing technique on the plate. That is visual texture. The nubby surface design on the cranberry drinking cup represents actual texture. Soft fabrics and shiny metals are more great textures. Second: Layer, Layer, & Layer. This is one of my favorite design techniques. Gradate size with chargers and plates so that you can appreciate all the different textures. Add 2 drinking glasses, not just for guest preference, but also to show off multiple textures and colors. |  |
Tip 3: DIY Dried Oranges
 | Are you looking for a fun, inexpensive activity to do with your kids? Consider making your own dried fruit. These dried orange slices are an easy DIY activity that allows your kids to help with the table decor while adding a natural element to the table. There are a myriad of recipes online but here is one blogger with great advice. Barley and Sage *As an additional note, if you are planning to string the orange slices consider cutting a hole in one of the segments before drying them. That way it is easy to slide wire or ribbon through them. |
Shop The Look - Links
Want this look for yourself? Check out the shoppable links below of some of the exact items we used in our Holiday table setting. But feel free to add your own mix with what you have in your collection.
Styling Your
Thanksgiving Table
Are you looking for new ideas to make your Thanksgiving or fall themed dinner party a bit more special this year? We are seeing striking trends this year and want to share with you some simple ways to add them your existing entertaining supplies.
(You may have noticed the Part 1 in the title. That's right, we are going to not only give you tips and tricks for the fall season, but we are looking ahead to Christmas as well. So make sure you check out the next blog article. You will notice how some of the purchases can be used for both holidays. We love a two-for!! )
2023 Trends
Trend 1: Moody Yet Colorful Palette
 | Oh how we love color! Deep, bold tones are becoming more common not just in accessories but in all-over painted rooms. This color palette creates moody environments that encourage cozy snuggles and thoughtful contemplation. They are easy to add to warm and cool neutral homes. We highly suggest adding all the colors together to make a more exciting tablescape, but if that seems too bold, at least choose two, to really get the vibe of this colorful trend. |
Trend 2: Colored Glass
| One of the best ways to play with color is in colored glass. There are so many ways to add tonal sparkle to your table: stemware, candle holders, light fixtures, beading, stained glass, and translucent accessories. If you are a little nervous to put so much glass around your children or klutzy friends, consider the easy alternative—colorful translucent plastics. The possibilities are endless! |  |
Tips to Making it Your Own
Tip 1: Utilize Your Basic Supplies
 | Before you go out and buy all new plates and glasses, take inventory of your current supplies. - What dishes, linens, and decor already works with this color scheme? Having a set of neutral dishes makes it easy to use them for multiple color schemes. - Not enough place settings? Can you mix and match to make a full set? We love layering plates and using mixed sets. - Do you have any holiday decor that could be reassigned to the table? Grab a couple pumpkins off the mantle to fill in gaps in the middle. - Do you already have greenery that just needs a few added fall touches? One basic greenery strand can be repurposed for almost any holiday or season. |
The goal is not to recreate this exact look but to be inspired and make your own unique interpretation.
Tip 2: Add Vintage and Dollar Section Items
| As much as we love the the new luxury products out there, you can never go wrong when you bargain hunt. Check out your local thrift stores and estate sales for unique vintage finds—especially glassware and candleholders. Another of our favorite haunts is the Target dollar section. Can we get an amen?! That's where we found the little glass pumpkins to put on the plate, for just a couple bucks. They always have fun, seasonal items that don't break the bank. |  |
Tip 3: Mix Textures and Add Layers
 | The more layers the better it looks. Stacking different textures or patterns helps create depth and interest. Not everything has to match, in fact, matching sets can be boring. As long as you stay within the general color scheme, it will look amazing. The main rule is— have fun with it! We don't set our tables like this very often, so throw Emily Post's book out the door. If it puts a smile on your face then you are doing it right. |
Shop The Look - Links
Below are some of the exact items we used, or similar ones, that you can buy today to replicate this look for your upcoming Thanksgiving party.
1. Red Colored Drinking Bubble Glasses
2. Small White Pumpkins
3. Green Glass Candle Holders
4. Woven Jute Placemats
5. Navy Linen Napkins
6. Fall Garland
7. Minimal Gray Plates
8. Minimal White Plates
2. Small White Pumpkins
3. Green Glass Candle Holders
4. Woven Jute Placemats
5. Navy Linen Napkins
6. Fall Garland
7. Minimal Gray Plates
8. Minimal White Plates
Bonus Tip: Other than the pumpkins and fall garland, everything above can be used for other holidays, or even every day, so don't feel bad about investing more.
What's Hot and
What's Not in 2023
Written By: Sonia Barney
| It's a couple weeks into the new year and I’m already seeing a rejuvenation in design. No longer are we keeping things calm, and quite frankly, boring, in response to the dreaded 2020. Life is being infused back into our homes with full abandon. Take for example Pantone's Color of the Year, Viva Magenta. Below is a list of trends I see on the way out, and the ones I see replacing them. But always remember, if you love it, it doesn’t matter what other people think (including me)! However, if your home feels dated and you’re looking to make some changes, these ideas will steer you in the right direction. |  |
Trends on Their Way Out
#1 - White Shiplap
Can I say overdone? (With apologies to my shiplap loving friends.) It was a great idea until it was, well, everywhere. I recognize it was a perfect way to create an inexpensive accent, but I just can't endorse its use any longer! When every builder adds at least one accent wall in each of their new builds, then it’s no longer special.
Can I say overdone? (With apologies to my shiplap loving friends.) It was a great idea until it was, well, everywhere. I recognize it was a perfect way to create an inexpensive accent, but I just can't endorse its use any longer! When every builder adds at least one accent wall in each of their new builds, then it’s no longer special.
#2 - Cheap Collage Walls
You wouldn't know it by my over-stuffed office, but I’m a minimalist at heart. I don't feel the need to display everything I own—especially knowing that it’ll have to be cleaned. Collage walls came into vogue when collectors started displaying their beloved treasures in a unique maximalism potpourri. (Which I fully admit is still amazing.) But are you a collector? Do your items tell a story and have special meaning? Then by all means, display them. But if you have to go out and buy items to make your collage wall, then save your money. Don't do it. There are cleaner and more elevated looks for your home. (see below)
You wouldn't know it by my over-stuffed office, but I’m a minimalist at heart. I don't feel the need to display everything I own—especially knowing that it’ll have to be cleaned. Collage walls came into vogue when collectors started displaying their beloved treasures in a unique maximalism potpourri. (Which I fully admit is still amazing.) But are you a collector? Do your items tell a story and have special meaning? Then by all means, display them. But if you have to go out and buy items to make your collage wall, then save your money. Don't do it. There are cleaner and more elevated looks for your home. (see below)
#3 - Plant Shelves
One of the banes of this designer’s existence... plant shelves (at least that is what I call them.) They are those open drywall ledges cut into your walls often seen high up towards the ceiling. Like their close cousin, the collage wall, these areas end up being not much more than a dust collector. At one point, did all home builders and local architects decide this feature is the pinnacle of design? They are prolific, and in turn, many homeowners wonder how to style these random spaces at the top of their vaulted ceilings. The answer is simple, do nothing! Again, unless you have an amazing collection of the right sized objects that needs to be displayed, do not go buy a bunch of useless objects to fill the spot. You don’t want to feel guilty about not cleaning up there regularly. In fact, the next time you have a contractor in your home, ask him to frame that area in. Clean, vertical wall at 10 feet off the ground is much better than a useless collection of stuff you can barely see.
One of the banes of this designer’s existence... plant shelves (at least that is what I call them.) They are those open drywall ledges cut into your walls often seen high up towards the ceiling. Like their close cousin, the collage wall, these areas end up being not much more than a dust collector. At one point, did all home builders and local architects decide this feature is the pinnacle of design? They are prolific, and in turn, many homeowners wonder how to style these random spaces at the top of their vaulted ceilings. The answer is simple, do nothing! Again, unless you have an amazing collection of the right sized objects that needs to be displayed, do not go buy a bunch of useless objects to fill the spot. You don’t want to feel guilty about not cleaning up there regularly. In fact, the next time you have a contractor in your home, ask him to frame that area in. Clean, vertical wall at 10 feet off the ground is much better than a useless collection of stuff you can barely see.
Trends on the Scene
#1 - Bold and Dark Paint Colors
As much as we love an all-white home, special rooms swathed in a dark toned paint color will make anyone swoon. From deep plums to forest greens, and even black, these bolder wall-to-wall paint choices are an inexpensive way to express personality and create a vibe. Take a look at how some designers have bravely applied this trend.
As much as we love an all-white home, special rooms swathed in a dark toned paint color will make anyone swoon. From deep plums to forest greens, and even black, these bolder wall-to-wall paint choices are an inexpensive way to express personality and create a vibe. Take a look at how some designers have bravely applied this trend.
#2 - Pattern Mixing
Maximalism is the art of "more is more." You can do that with more accessories or, in the way I prefer, mixing and layering color and pattern throughout the space. Why choose only one tile for your backsplash? Why play it safe with plain white drapes? Why only have pattern on throw pillows? Start playing with contrasting patterns and materials on your wall, furniture, window treatments, and decor and make something uniquely yours. Need inspiration? Check out these amazing spaces below that prove mixing patterns is not just a old grandma look.
Maximalism is the art of "more is more." You can do that with more accessories or, in the way I prefer, mixing and layering color and pattern throughout the space. Why choose only one tile for your backsplash? Why play it safe with plain white drapes? Why only have pattern on throw pillows? Start playing with contrasting patterns and materials on your wall, furniture, window treatments, and decor and make something uniquely yours. Need inspiration? Check out these amazing spaces below that prove mixing patterns is not just a old grandma look.
#3 - Oversized Art
You know how I said I’m over collage walls? This may leave you asking, “Then what do I put on my walls?” The answer is simple - go big! Invest in oversized art. I don't care if it’s a framed family picture or an amazing wall sculpture of a hamburger. Let your art cover the wall and make a spectacular focal point in the space. Added benefit: oversized artwork can enhance an architecturally deprived space (such as the lack of fireplaces or trim work). Don't take my word for it. See for yourself how these designers have completely upleveled the space with art.
You know how I said I’m over collage walls? This may leave you asking, “Then what do I put on my walls?” The answer is simple - go big! Invest in oversized art. I don't care if it’s a framed family picture or an amazing wall sculpture of a hamburger. Let your art cover the wall and make a spectacular focal point in the space. Added benefit: oversized artwork can enhance an architecturally deprived space (such as the lack of fireplaces or trim work). Don't take my word for it. See for yourself how these designers have completely upleveled the space with art.
When in doubt, you can always ask an expert.
If you need design services to update your space, don't hesitate to start the process. Set up an introductory phone call today and learn how we can bring new life into your space.
If you need design services to update your space, don't hesitate to start the process. Set up an introductory phone call today and learn how we can bring new life into your space.
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Spark your creativity and implement ideas with our SBD Studio Blog - The Spark. This is where we share with you our take on upcoming trends, favorite things, and even give you seasonal shoppable looks.* We can't wait to see how you incorporate these amazing ideas into your home. And please share your pics with us on Instagram @soniabarneydesign.
*Note that we do provide affiliate and sponsored links from which we can make extra money. Income we earn from your purchases will never increase the cost to you, but does support our caffeine addictions! Remember, a well caffeinated designer is a happy designer who in turn loves to give you more helpful tips and tricks.
