So much can happen in ten years.

Ten years ago this month, I obtained my business license to start my own company – to hang up my own shingle, as it is said. I had entrepreneurship in my genes, but I never seriously considered the idea until I was practically forced into it that tumultuous year.

2007 was the beginning of the great recession and the beginning of my new life. I was a newlywed, and had been working in the thriving model home industry for several years before it came to a screeching halt. Massive downsizing had begun throughout my industry, and in the midst of this – having been laid off 3 times in 18 months – working for myself became more and more attractive.

RWD had a very slow beginning, which was to be expected given the state of the economy. I was still working part time for other firms, but this allowed me time to learn how to run a business, network, market, and try on all of the other hats a business owner has to wear. Experience is the best teacher, and I had plenty on this new journey, dealing with unhappy clients, surly contractors, difficult vendors, scammy marketers, changing business models, and shifting company structures.

Now that my company is enjoying constant growth and continued success, I do not hesitate to share my experiences, giving the honest truth to any interested student or beginning designer. Seriously, I could write a book to advise on what works/doesn’t work in the business of design. But day in and day out, I have never regretted the decision I made ten years ago to start my company.

I am blessed to be able to practice my passion every day, bringing purpose, beauty and inspiration into my clients’ lives and homes. I am looking forward to seeing what the next ten years bring!

A happy medium. You know, like chocolate-covered pretzels striking the perfect balance between sweet and salty. Or that great pair of shoes that’s both attractive AND extremely comfortable.

Think of transitional interior design as the ultimate happy medium – it combines the best aspects of two worlds: the luxury of traditional design, and the clean lines of contemporary design. Though less ornate than a traditional interior, a transitional interior will feel more warm an inviting than a contemporary space, because of its simple curves, plush materials, and inviting textures. Since this style is essentially the union of two opposing design styles, it’s ok to have a little fun and mix in the occasional vintage rug or sleek, lucite table. No two transitional spaces are alike!

Check out the photos below for some transitional design ideas:

Sources: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 // 10 // 11 // 12 // 13 // 14 // 15 // 16

Read this post to learn about some more design styles!

Xoxo,

If you read our post on traditional interior design and thought, “Well, that’s pretty, but it’s exactly the opposite of my taste,” this one’s for you.

Contemporary interior design is sleek, clean, and largely free of embellishment, making it a favorite for anyone who strives for simplicity and minimalism. While many contemporary interiors tend toward neutral palettes, especially gray and taupe, color blocking (see photo with blue wall & sofa) can be a stunning addition to this style. Contemporary furniture features straight lines and sharp angles, steering clear of the curves and delicate scrolls of more traditional styles.

What this style lacks in ornamentation, it makes up for in inviting textures and mixed metallics. Minimalism is anything but boring! Take a look below for some inspiration:

Sources: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 // 10 // 11 // 12 // 13 // 14 // 15 // 16 // 17

Want to see some other styles? Visit this post for a more comprehensive Design Dictionary.

Xoxo,

There’s a reason why some things never go out of style – they’re classic. Take Debussy’s Claire De Lune, or Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, for example. The former was composed over a hundred years ago, and the latter was painted half a millennium ago, but both are still praised for their beauty in 2017.

The same is true of traditional style interior design. It takes a page straight out of the old world book of 18th and 19th century Europe. Elaborately carved wood furniture, roll-top sofa arms, tassles, gilded finishes, chinoiserie, lace, and tufted details come together to create graceful and stately interiors. Lovers of this style tend to be attracted to consistency, comfort, elegance, and – you guessed it – tradition.

Think this might be the style for you? Take a look below to get some style inspiration!
Sources: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 // 10 // 11 // 12 // 13 // 14 // 15

If these photos don’t speak to you, check out this post to learn about some other interior design styles!

Xoxo,