Hi! Lilly here, the most recent addition to the RWD team! Of course, I was beyond excited when I found out I would be able to go to the Las Vegas Market with Rebecca and Leah this year! It seemed like a dream come true – being completely surrounded by beautiful pieces of furniture and being able to sit in chairs that I had admired on websites. Actually being there to feel and experience them in person was thrilling. Not to mention, this was also my first time to Las Vegas. I had heard so much about all of the hotel designs on the strip, and about Vegas in general, that going there was also so exciting! We stayed in the Bellagio, which was completely gorgeous. The sheer size of everything, including the hotel, was overwhelming.

Market itself was everything I hoped it would be. With Leah and Rebecca as my guides, I got to go into all of the vendor showrooms that we source from for our clients, and we got to explore and learn about some new companies too. Much of the furniture that we saw was distinct for its quality, ingenuity, creativity and comfort, which is, in my opinion, everything you would want from a piece of furniture. Below are a few of my favorite things that I saw at Market!

The first piece of furniture I saw which excited me was a cabinet from Studio A Home. At first glance, it just looks like an attractive Mid-Century cabinet. But it has a really cool feature! The slats in the front of the piece are offset, so that when you push back the cabinet door, the intertwined slats create a solid face. The functionality and simplicity of it combined with how much I liked the look of it when it was opened, closed, or even partly open, is what made me so excited about the piece.

We are BIG fans of Four Hands furniture here at RWD, so going to their showroom was a must for me! Needless to say, it did not disappoint. Not only were they serving the best food (very important), but I may have found the most comfortable chair on earth there. We went back multiple times, and each time made sure to spend some time on this heavenly chair, one time even running toward it only to have someone else sit down out of nowhere, stealing our seats. We of course waited patiently for them to move and then swooped in swiftly so that they were not stolen again. This chair really did make you feel as though you were sitting on a cloud. We also found a bookcase that really spoke to us. It is a simple design but also gorgeous, and is definitely something I could see in a client’s home, or in my own!

Another unforgettable experience was walking through the Christopher Guy showroom. Just being in this showroom was a luxurious experience. Lots of incredible colors, textures and shapes overwhelmed your senses as you walked through. My favorite items to look at and experience were the mosaic art pieces which adorned the walls. Each piece was incredibly intricate, and the colors and shine of the tiles made it an experience in and of itself. We learned from our sales rep that there were often thousands of pieces of tile in each piece, and that they were handmade, sometimes taking thousands of hours to create just one. They were massive, looming over you as you viewed it, making it just that more impactful.

There were quite a few pieces at Oly that I really liked. The first thing I noticed when walking into the showroom was this four poster bed frame. I am a big fan of four poster beds and this one was particularly cool. The materials (wood and metal) and the simple shape of the posters put a modern twist on a piece of furniture that is usually rather traditional and historical. They also had multiple pieces made out of capiz shells, my favorite being this nightstand, and a runner up being the floor lamp. Capiz shell is just plain pretty.

As my old classmates can attest to, I love a little blush, and at Bungalow 5, they had some blush furniture! One chair’s fabric was a velvety wood pattern. And it was blush! Yes please! They also had these Clover side tables which were cute on their own, but bunch them together and you get a coffee table like no other. Not only did I like them because of their form and unique functionality, but I thought it was fun to have a piece of furniture that could be pulled apart into smaller pieces if you needed more side tables while entertaining, or wanted a room opened up for kids to play.

Leftbank was rolling out a new line of art which I really enjoyed. It was so quirky, fun and different that it immediately grabbed my attention. They were portraits with a twist: an elegant Victorian women who just so happens to be a bird, a stately gentleman in an elegant robe… with a tiger’s head, and a revolutionary man adorned in metals, his face obscured by butterflies. These are just three examples from the collection and each one is so fun and unexpected that it is hard not to be a little silly in the presence of such a piece, as Leah and I discovered as we contemplated which of the bird ladies we would be (the one below is me).

We came across a furniture company that we didn’t previously know about, but are now very excited to use! It’s called Black Label Home, and we talked to Robert Wylie, the founder of the company, while we were there. All I really have to say about this company is that sitting on one of the couches, I could have stayed there all day. I mean, REALLY comfortable. The designs were good and were customizable (which is always a plus) and talking to Robert, you could tell how knowledgeable and passionate he was about building quality furniture. It was such a good experience talking to him, and it gave us a reason to sit on his couch for a while, so that we didn’t have to just loiter in his showroom!

I have loved Loloi for their rugs, but I was reminded at Market that they also have the cutest pillows. One section of the showroom was like a pillow wonderland! Not only do they have a line from Ellen DeGeneres (my fave), but they also have lots of other pillows with amazing texture, pattern and color. It made me excited to have another place to look when on the hunt for fun pillows for our clients.These are just a few of the pieces and showrooms that blew my mind. Everywhere I went had cool things to see and comfortable furniture to sit on, as well as yummy food, drinks, and some candy to enjoy! What’s not to love about that!? As a recently graduated designer, an experience like this is so valuable and I am so happy that I had Rebecca and Leah to show me the ropes! Getting to go the Luxe cocktail party, explore the hotels on the strip, and go out with the girls was amazing, and it gave me a taste of the Las Vegas experience. Can’t wait for next time!

We have been doing a TON of window treatments recently including a home in Davis which has at least 50 windows that all need covering! All of this window talk really has us thinking about the different window treatment options out there, (pst, there are so many!) and each style has its own strengths and weaknesses. Each option also has its own look and feel that enhances the space’s design. Many window treatments are multi-functional, with a sheer option, an opaque option, and a light blocking option, which is ideal for bedrooms.

The amount of light that goes through the treatment isn’t the only consideration. Where the window is located, if you have children, if you have an oddly shaped or very narrow window or if the window is high up on a wall are all variables that might influence what type of window treatment you need. Layering treatments is often a good way of solving multiple problems in one swoop. You could have roller shades with both sheer and light blocking options, or a roman shade under some pretty curtains. You can layer for different light blocking and privacy options, or for aesthetic purposes. And don’t be afraid to mix different treatments on one window! Layer as much as you would like. There is always a way to solve the problem and still be stylish!

To help you navigate your way through the crazy world of window treatments, we have complied a list of our favorite treatments and all the specs on these options, as well as some of our personal, professional opinions.

Venetian Blinds

Venetian blinds are a classic. You have probably seen them your entire life and not known what they are called but I guarantee you are familiar with this treatment. They are a horizontal treatment that are available in a fine wood, aluminum or a faux wood. They come in multiple slat sizes, colors and textures, and are a cost-effective option! They are hardier than fabric coverings, so would be good in a room where they might get more ware and tare, like a child’s room! They are also good in warm, humid environments (again, because they aren’t fabric!) like a bathroom. If you want to dress them up, you can add a cornice for a more finished look, or add a ribbon where the strings are, like in the picture below.

Vertical Blinds/ Panels

Vertical blinds are another popular window treatment that you have probably seen many times in your life, especially on a sliding glass window. Vertical blinds are a traditional window solution and can be used to cover oddly shaped windows. They come in a range of fabrics, vinyl, aluminum, wood and faux wood. Vertical panels are a similar concept to vertical blinds but are a more sleek and modern design. When open, both treatments stack to offer the largest view possible, and when closed, almost seem to become part of the wall.

Curtains

Curtains are another classic window treatment! They are great because the possibilities are endless due to the endless options of fabrics out there. There are also countless styles of curtains, they can be casual or formal, there are numerous accessories that can be added or changed to the curtain or curtain rod to change the style of the curtain. They can be stationary or functional or both! They are accessible at any price range; get them at Ikea or get custom curtains made. Curtains are often called different things based on how it is attached or how it looks at the curtain rod. Grommet curtains, eyelet curtains or pinch pleat curtains are some examples. The sky is the limit with curtains, especially when you start layering them with other treatments!

Cellular Shades

Cellular shades are a great option for a window treatment whether it be alone or layered. They are available in a wide range of fabrics and colors and can be stacked from the bottom up or top down. They can be anything from sheer to light blocking and have an insulating quality because air gets trapped in the honeycomb structure, acting as insulation and adding to efficiency. They can be oriented both horizontally or vertically and can be operated with or without a cord.

Shutters

Shutters are durable, versatile and add a lot of style to a space. They come in many different color options and can be made for custom shapes. Because shutters are not made out of fabric and they don’t warp, crack, or fade, they work well in hot, humid environments. While in Hawaii, I saw screens and shutters used in place of windows, which worked well because it allowed for the breeze and light to come into the room while still providing some privacy.

Roller Shades

Roller shades give a clean, modern look to a window and are a dream for layered treatments. They come in lots of different colors and fabrics and can be sheer or opaque. How they work is the material rolls up into the roller. This keeps the window looking clean and simple. They can come cordless or motorized for added convenience!

Roman Shades

Roman shades are soft fabric folds that lift up and down into a headrail. They are a horizontal treatment that often work well on elongated windows. Because they are made out of fabric, they can come in any color or pattern you want! You can also add decorative tapes or trims (like in the picture below) and paired with a valance to finish off the look. Depending on the style of roman shade and the finishes you use, you can end up with a soft, feminine looking treatment or a simpler shade. Also, you can line it for light blocking, have it sheer, or use it to insulate.

Pirouette and Silhouette Shades

Pirouette and Silhouette shades are a favorite of the RWD team! They are horizontal folds of fabric attached to sheer backing so when they are open, you can see out of the window. The softly contoured fabric open and close completely, or to any angle you want allowing the user to have complete control over how much light comes into their space. They can be brought all the way up to the top of the window to open the view of the window completely. When they are closed, they provide protection and maintain privacy. The treatment can also be light blocking and come in many different colors and patterns. They are a simple and elegant window treatment!

If you have been thinking about getting some new window treatments for your house or want more information or pricing on any of these window treatment options, please feel free to contact us!

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Xoxo,

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There’s something to be said for the simplicity of a minimalist interior. The clean lines, lack of clutter, and abundance of negative space create a feeling of tranquility, and the quietness of the decor somehow allows you to focus your thoughts and take a break from your busy schedule.

A form of minimalism, zen interior design also takes inspiration from Asian culture. The use of natural materials, such as smooth pebbles, water features, and bamboo give these spaces the feeling of being an extension of the outdoors. Accent furniture and tables tend to be low and flat, and upholstery follows suit, with a lower seat height. This allows the ceilings to feel even higher, creating even more negative space. Cherry blossom motifs and paper shoji doors have become trademarks of this style.

Take a look at these beautiful zen interiors and contact us if you’d like some help creating your own spa-like oasis!

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This is the final post in our Design Styles Defined series! We hope you’ve enjoyed following along and learning about twelve of our favorite styles. Need a recap? Head over to this blog post!

Xoxo,

As the weather gets warmer, we’re itching to hop on a plane and see the world! It’s true what they say: once you’ve been bitten by the travel bug, you’re incurable for life. This summer, we’re drawn to architectural destinations – cities and places with beautiful buildings, ancient ruins, and all-around irresistible atmospheres. Keep scrolling to see which places have made our top 5 list (click the photos for sources)!

#5 Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne’s juxtaposition of experimental, modern buildings and classic, Victorian buildings creates a compelling and eclectic vibe that we’ve been dying to experience firsthand. It’s rapidly becoming a popular tourist destination, and looking at photos alone is enough to tell us why. Walking down a busy street lined with skyscrapers, you might just run into a Gothic cathedral! And don’t even get us started on the food – one glance at a restaurant website is enough to get our mouths watering!

#4 Florence, Italy

While this city isn’t unfamiliar to the RWD team, lately we’ve been missing the streets of Florence – you could call it a form of homesickness. Florence (or Firenze, if you’re Italian), is one of the most cultured and vibrant cities we’ve come across in our travels. The Duomo alone is intricate enough to occupy several hours at least, not to mention the museums packed to the brim with paintings and sculptures created by well-known classical artists. The Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge), pictured here, would also be a great stop on an architectural tour – it’s an outdoor shopping mall built over the river!

#3 Machu Picchu, Peru

Although this one sits in stark contrast to the other, more polished destinations on this list, we can’t help but be drawn in by these ancient Incan ruins. How cool would it be to witness the organization and creativity of a civilization that came way before our modern methods of design and construction?? Machu Picchu is definitely a destination for the more adventurous traveler, since it involves some scary bus rides and a bit of hiking, but we think it’d be worth it to get a glimpse of such an amazing, ancient site.

#2 Tokyo, Japan

With more Michelin star restaurants than any other city in the world, we’d be lying if we said architecture was our only reason for adding Tokyo to the bucket list. But the architecture certainly holds its own as well. With odd angles and experimental shapes around every corner, pushing boundaries seems to be the theme for many of the architects and designers in this city. We’re particularly interested in seeing Kenzo Tange’s ultramodern St. Mary’s Cathedral and, of course, Tokyo Tower.

#1 Barcelona, Spain

We’re particularly excited about this one, because one of RWD’s designers is headed here at the end of the month! Barcelona has been on the list for quite a while for many reasons, not the least of which being the gorgeous and bizarre architecture by Antoni Gaudí on display here. La Sagrada Familia boasts some of the most ornate stained glass we’ve ever seen, and we can’t complain about the ocean views we’re bound to see while there. Stay tuned on Instagram for some swoon-worthy pictures on our account!

Bon voyage!

Xoxo,