If your bathroom is feeling cramped and humdrum, there’s a simple way to add space and style to the area: replace your old tub with an exquisite free standing tub!  I love the drama that free standing tubs bring to a bathroom.  They add an air of  sophistication and elegance and creates an immediate focal point within the room, as if it were a piece of sculpture.

Why Free Standing?
A drop-in or under mount tub built in to a decking is somewhat expected these days, and at times can feel more like a functional fixture than something that is supposed to be comfortable. A free standing tub gives the appearance of a more spacious bathroom and the variety of unique designs available will enhance any style of master bath.

What Type of Tub Should You Choose?
Select a tub that has a unique style that fits your taste and design sensibility. For a lighter and more classic environment, consider a claw foot tub which elevates it off the floor slightly. There are no shortage of styles – from traditional, transitional and contemporary, these functional art pieces are available in a variety of different shapes, finishes and sizes.

I would love to help you create a unique bathroom design by using a free standing tub. For more interior design inspiration, please contact me at Interior Makeovers, Inc. by calling 310-788-0990.

Photo Credits:

1.) Leslie Fine Interiors

2.)Decoist

3.) House Beautiful

4.) Architectural Digest

Last week, I was invited to attend a book signing at Pottery Barn Beverly Hills for their style expert, Nathan Turner.  Nathan Turner is renowned for his expertise in both interior design and entertaining, which allows him to create designs that are simultaneously elegant and friendly.  He explains his decorating approach in detail in his new book, Nathan Turner’s American Style.

 In his book, you can see his work and get inspired to create a home that blends the best parts of style and relaxation with affordable and easy-to-maintain designs.  He also includes fabulous ideas for festive party themes and delectable menu ideas that will help you host fun but stress-free parties – any time!

I had a lovely chat with Nathan Turner at his book signing.  He is incredibly genuine and down-to-earth, just like his design principles.  I highly recommend picking up a copy of his book yourself to get inspired to create elegant but functional designs in your own home!

Stay Inspired!

In last week’s World Tour of Design, I explored the visual elements of Moroccan design and architecture.  This week, I’d like to travel to Mexico and examine the design elements that characterize this beautiful region of the world.  This country has special significance to me because I actually designed a property in San Jose Del Cabo a few years ago.  It was not the typical idea of a house layout, yet it was a unique project surrounded by spectacular views of  both the pool and the ocean.

The climate and environment have a profound influence on Mexican design.  For example, this particular home I designed was built on a hillside and, instead of the typical house enclosed by four walls, this home was comprised of several separate buildings that were open to each other.  Large sliding pocket doors were integrated into each building for security and protection from the seasonal elements.

A major architectural element in Mexican design is the palapa.  Here this main living area which is constructed of dried palm leaves and pine beams provides much needed shade – and is very common in Mexican seaside communities.  The palapa is considered one of the most important architectural elements in Mexican design.   The warm climate of Mexico combined with the fresh ocean breeze near this property made this open layout very appealing, and the views it offered were unparalleled.

Earth tones are a key feature of Mexican design, from sandy beige to burnt sienna.  More vivid reds or oranges might also make an appearance, but the colors choices are typically warm as the summers in Mexico.  Integrated furniture is quite typical in Mexico – from beds and nightstands to seating in the palapa – they seem to organically rise up from the floor.

Mexican design also makes use of a lot of natural materials and handcrafted items.  Beautiful tiles, woven baskets, tropical plants, and wood furniture are all great accessories to implement if you are designing your home in the Mexican style.

                                                             All images via Lori Gilder – Interior Makeovers Inc.

For more information on designing your interior with Mexican influences or for help with your interior design, feel free to contact me at  Interior Makeovers Inc. by calling 310-788-0990.  I would love to help you create your dream home!

I have a confession to make: I am addicted to One Kings Lane.  For the past few years, it has been one of my favorite sources for unique and affordable home furnishings and accessories, and with good reason.  With a constantly changing inventory and great discounts, it’s easy to get drawn into the excitement of hunting down the perfect addition to your home decor.  One Kings Lane merges all the appeal of a high-quality vintage thrift store with the convenience of online shopping.

I recently inherited some beautiful furniture from my in-laws’ home in New York, which I am trying to make work in my living room.  Right now, the furniture just needs a few added accents and occasional pieces to make the whole look of the room feel cohesive, so I have been hunting down tables, lighting, accessories, and a bar cart on One Kings Lane.  Every night I take a look at the “Vintage and Market Finds” section.  If I find something fantastic, I have to grab it; these items go fast.

I’ve been very happy with One Kings Lane, and I’ve made several purchases from them over the years for my own home.  I highly recommend signing up if you enjoy discovering items with a lot of character to add to your home decor.  I would love to help you find the ideal way of mixing and matching these items in your interior design, so feel free to contact me by calling 310-788-0990 or emailing Lori@InteriorMakeovers.com.

Where is your favorite place to find home furnishings and accessories?

Photos via One Kings Lane

When it comes to your home renovation, addition or remodel, selecting the type and style of windows will be one of the most important architectural details you’ll choose.  Take the time and choose your windows wisely to ensure they work with your home’s architectural style.

Here in California according to the building energy efficiency code (or Title 24) the use of dual pane windows are typically required  not just for new construction but renovations and additions alike.

In this video I share a few simple reasons why you should invest in dual pane windows.  Take a look!

Stay Inspired!

I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2012 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

It’s that time of year again, when researchers at the Pantone Color Institute released the 2012 Color of the Year.   After analyzing the emerging trends from the home, fashion, sports and entertainment industries they determined the ideal color choice for the New Year is Tangerine Tango.

According to executive director Leatrice Eisman at Pantone this is why they selected this reddish-orange color for 2012.

“…the current economic climate and frustrations call for something bolder this coming year. Pantone has turned to the “spirited reddish-orange” hue to “provide the energy boost we need to recharge and move forward.” Orange signals not only vitality, but also urgency and strength—associations that should resonate in a year where many are hoping to finally start seeing changes. “There’s the element of encouragement with orange”.

Here is a quick flashback into the past five years of Pantone’s Color of the Year.

From top to bottom:

Tangerine Tango 2012 – Honeysuckle 2011 – Turquoise 2010 – Mimosa 2009 –

Blue Iris 2008

Whether used a lot or a little – this reddish orange color instantly infuses high energy into your home’s interior.   It is an energizing lively and invigorating warm hue, which evokes enthusiasm, self-confidence and creativity.  Tangerine Tango pairs beautifully with many color stories and works beautifully with black, white, cream, grey, brown, khaki and blue.

Why not update your foyer, living room, dining room, or bedroom with a boost of Vitamin C?  Accessorizing with vases, throws, lamps, pillows and linens is all you will need to freshen up your home for 2012.

Enjoy these interior inspirations.

Image via Elle Décor

Image via Elle Décor

Image via Houzz                                        Designer:  Betsy Burnham

Image via Houzz                          Designer:  Rebekkah Davies

Image via Lonny

Contact us at Interior Makeovers Inc.  Looking forward to hearing from you.

Stay Inspired!

I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Determining how much to spend on your home renovation projects can be overwhelming and confusing.   So what is a wise investment?

Watch my latest video where I share a quick tip on this very subject.

Stay Inspired!

Please leave your questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

If you want to start your renovation off on the right foot and set the tone for the next several months or more, then consider a few of these surefire ways to win over your design team, and make your renovation experience a great one.

In this video I give you some tips on how to not only survive a renovation but maybe even enjoy it! Have fun!

Stay Inspired!

Please leave your questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Take it from me, YOU JUST NEVER KNOW what you’re going to find. So be PREPARED and be FLEXIBLE!

Stay Inspired!

Please leave your questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

Freshome is a fabulous online interior design and architecture magazine for design savvy enthusiasts. It spans the design world from furnishings, interiors and architectural properties from across the globe. The inspiration here is endless.  

Thank You Freshome! I am very honored to be featured here today.

Click here to check it out!

Stay Inspired!

Please leave your questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”

Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.