Office Design

Why the Design of Our Workplaces is Important

Photo: Unsplash

At James Décor, our specialty is residential design. The design of the places we come home to every day is infinitely important.

What about the place we spend most of our time during the day?

That’s right — we’re talking about the office.

Like it or not, much of our time is spent sitting at desks and conference tables. We work hard in the office so we can play hard when we go home.

The world of office design is rapidly evolving. Research is showing that the design of boring places like offices can have a huge impact on how we work and, therefore, how we live.

An article on ScienceDaily about research conducted on how the environment impacts us says, “the scientists explain that well-built environments are important for well-being. A relationship to the space we're in is a fundamental human experience and so it is evident that built environments need to address everyone's needs.”

This is why fluid, collaborative spaces are quickly replacing the rigid cubicle farms we have grown accustomed to. Companies are working smarter — not harder — with innovative office design.

Interior Design is a magazine that keeps up with the ever-changing trends in interior design around us. Their May 2019 issue was dedicated solely to office design. The offices they featured and products they discovered were nothing short of inspiring.

Take Sunbrella’s headquarters in North Carolina, for example. The fabric and upholstery company converted a former mill into office space. The design included making use of natural light as much as possible. The building lets in so much light that there are two internal gardens in the office space. The gardens are two of the spaces referred to as “accidental spaces” in the office. These spaces aren’t assigned a specific use. Rather, they can be used for casual meetings or quick conversations — whatever they are needed for at the moment.

The North American headquarters for the Campari Group, a beverage company, incorporated four bars in their office space. The reception desk is an espresso bar. The office space also includes a cafe. It’s not all a party, though. The office features plenty of work spaces, like sit/stand workstations and conference rooms. However, there are no assigned desks. Employees work wherever they want to that day and store their belongings in lockers at the end of the day.

Trask Solutions, a technological and consulting company, has an office in Prague, Czech Republic, with a unique seating option — swinging chairs suspended from the ceiling. Little details like this bring a unique touch to office spaces. This keeps potentially boring work interesting.

Small environmental details can make all the difference in the quality of one’s work.

An article titled “How Your Office Space Impacts Employee Well-Being” from Forbes says, “A quality workspace design leads to a less stressful and more productive atmosphere. It’s essential that employers take the physical work environment of their employees into consideration.”

Good design doesn’t end at home. Take it to work, too. The office is an equally important place to pay attention to interior design.

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Sources:

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/05/160509105546.htm

https://www.interiordesign.net/articles/16454-interior-design-may-2019/

https://www.forbes.com/sites/alankohll/2019/01/24/how-your-office-space-impacts-employee-wellbeing/#2db02e864f31

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

Winter Design Inspiration

Design inspiration can be found everywhere you look.

The changing landscapes brought about by the seasons are an easy place to see this. Bursts of color in spring, summer and fall are easy to incorporate in interior design, but what about the duller setting of winter? There is inspiration to be found even in these slow and quiet months.

Green trees, powdery snow, sparkly ice, and earthy tree bark inspire patterns and colors to create a cozy space.

Go with soft or shiny textures in winter-inspired spaces.

Color schemes include silver, white, gray, gold, blue, and green. Find a combination that works for you.

Holiday Shopping Inspiration

10 Gift Ideas From Our Showroom

It’s that time of year again.

Our showroom is filled with items that would make perfect gifts. We’ve rounded up a collection of our favorites. This year, skip the boring gift cards and give your family and friends a unique piece from one of our luxury lines. They’ll be impressed with the extra thought you put into giving them such a personal gift.

Here are some ideas to get you brainstorming.

Windwood Farm Goat Milk Soap

Handcrafted soaps from a local business make the perfect stocking stuffers. Load up on all the different scents and colors.

Mina Victory Plush Collection

Don’t forget the littles. These ultra fluffy stuffed animals will be their new favorite toys. Give them their favorite animal to play with and cuddle.

Silver Ribbon Dance II Sculpture by John-Richard

Artistic sculptures like this one would make a great gift for someone who is on the hunt for the perfect home accent. Make sure you know their taste before picking one out.

La Sieste Tranquillité Eye Pillow by Branché

A silk eye mask is the perfect gift for those who are looking to get their beauty sleep over the holidays.

Jean Baptiste Hand Soap by Niven Morgan + Ceramic Bathroom Accessories

For the host or hostess on your list, help them keep their guest bathroom in tip-top shape with luxurious hand soap and stylish bathroom accessories.

Offering Bowls by Uttermost

These matte black bowls would make a trendy table centerpiece. They fit a glam style, so pick one up for the fashionista with décor to match on your list.

Paloma Pillow by Global Views

This eye-catching pillow would be a great gift for someone on your list looking for a statement piece. It fits a variety of tastes, from contemporary to artsy.

Le Blanc Linen Wash

Keep those linens in shape with this wash specifically made for linens. Anyone on your list could use this. Why not give the gift of clean and fresh bedding?

Charmeuse Silk Pillow Case by Branché

This could be paired with the eye masks above, or stand alone. The luxurious silk pillowcase even promotes skin and hair health.

Patina Bowl Onyx

Another idea for those looking for accents, this bowl would match a variety of styles.

Now that you’re inspired, it’s time to grab your list and get shopping! You’ll have those gifts under the tree in no time.

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Photos: Michaela Satterfield

In the Details

The Importance of Accessorizing

In a bustle of fabric memos, sofas and rug samples, the accessories can get lost. They are the final touches. They seem like minor details. In the end, though, they make all the difference.

Good design is in the details.

Accessories are a way to let the room play. One of the best ways to show your personality, they add splashes of individuality. Sculptures, clocks, books, bowls and statues dance around a room to tell a story. They must be used tastefully, but accessories could be what your space is missing. Whether you want to choose a single statement piece or several accents, our showroom is filled with options.

Get Inspired By Some of Our Favorite Accessories

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Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Photos: James Décor

Design Around the World

Europe

Photo: Unsplash

Good design is global. The interior design trends we know and love today are from all over the world. Often rich with history, these are the trends that last through the ages and are reinvented time and time again. 

One particular place that has contributed to interior design in a vast number of ways is Europe. Everything from Scandinavian to Tuscan to French Country design has roots in Europe.

The style is broad, but there are several design principles consistent across many European based styles. These principles can serve as a starting point to inspire your design. 

Photo: Unsplash

To bring the look to your home, here’s what you need to know.

Layout

European style homes typically have one focal point, like a fireplace. The rest of the design revolves around that focus. This grew out of ancient Greek and Roman styles. 

Textures

Textures are often inspired by nature. Marble, stone or tile floors are common. Soft fabrics, like cotton or velvet, add elegance. Faux furs can also work, as they are popular in the colder regions of Europe. You’ll find a diverse range of patterns when it comes to fabrics, although some fabrics are left un-patterned to emphasize the texture.

Photo: https://pixabay.com/photos/interior-design-chairs-table-2573445/

Accents

Don’t be shy when it comes to accessorizing. Typical accessories are antiques, or at least have an Old World feel. These accessories add layers to your home. When it comes to furniture, use pieces with a large scale, rather than lighter pieces.  

Color

Color is often plentiful in European houses, though dull or pastel shades are common. Some designs include rich colors, reminiscent of the deep shades found in royal castles. 

Photo: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rex_Whistler_-_Sketch_of_his_interior_Design_1936.jpg

Inspiration

For more inspiration, research specific European styles. Some ideas are French Country, Tuscan, Spanish, Mediterranean and Italian Villa. Find the one that suits your style, or mix and match. The possibilities are endless.

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Sources:

https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/modern-european-style-and-european-interior-design/

Fall Home Inspiration

Bring a Taste of the New Season to Your Home

Fall.

A season of change. A time of reflection.

Subtle hues, toned down from the blaring brightness of summer, create a dreamy mood of nostalgia. Burnt orange, crimson red and golden yellow mimic the landscape of trees transitioning to winter. Moody neutrals, like black and mocha, create a dim but comforting atmosphere.

To spice it up, throw in some texture. We love metallics and furs.

Let cozy furniture and accessories like these set the mood as you slow down to get ready for winter’s rest.

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Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Photos: Michaela Satterfield

Back to School Home Organization Tips

Think Outside the Classroom

Photo: https://www.flickr.com/photos/rubbermaid/5093615082/

September is here, and the new school year is officially in full swing. Kids are getting used to new teachers and classrooms. Morning routines are in place. Bedtimes are set. Now, you have a little bit of time to think about something else to make your schedule run even more smoothly: organizing your home.

During this busy time of year, stuff has a way of getting piled up. It starts with a pair of soccer cleats thrown over here, then a backpack slung over there. Before you know it, everything you own is scattered throughout the house. Nothing has a place of its own.

It may not seem like a big deal at first. Over time, however, this can lead to ongoing stress. Our environments are frequently blended into the background of our lives without so much as a thought. What we don’t realize is that they are of infinite importance to our well-being.

It starts with the structure of the home. Floor plans, lighting and finishes all make an impact on us. It then goes to the furnishings chosen for the home. Sofas, table and their layouts make a difference in how we live. The final layer? Organization of items within the home—our focus today.

5 Essential Home Organization Tips:

Give Everything a Home

Containers and baskets and shelves, oh my! Group your stuff into categories first. Put all those scrunchies into a pile. Arrange those books into neat stacks. Gather up all those loose toys. Once they’re all grouped, you’ll be able to tell how many storage containers you need. Stock up and get those items stashed away. When everything has a place to belong, picking up is way simpler.

Photo: https://www.needpix.com/photo/591447/shelf-container-rack-food-shelves-store-people-market-industry

Break Cleaning into Small, Daily Tasks

Instead of letting chores build until it seems like an insurmountable task to get the house clean, break everything up into small, daily tasks. For example, you could make your task of the day be vacuuming. Tomorrow, it could be cleaning the bathroom mirrors. What was once an overwhelming undertaking now seems manageable. It’s also a great way to get kids involved, who can get in the habit of doing one small chore a day.

Make it a Game

Speaking of getting the kids involved, a great way to do this is to make it a game. Make it a race to see who can get their toys picked up the fastest. See how many days in a row they can go without forgetting to take out the trash. Another idea is to create a reward system.

Plan Ahead

Oftentimes, a little planning is the key to keeping your home organized. Schedule cleaning times. Get in the routine of cleaning every day at a certain time. Routines are especially helpful in the morning. Lay out outfits and pack lunches the night before. This prevents the closets and kitchens from turning into madhouses in the morning rush. In the mornings, there often isn’t time to put things back, so the mess builds. A little planning will take care of the problem.

Deep Clean Every Six Months

While small, daily tasks work for most chores, there are some things that don’t need to be done as often. You can save these things for a deep clean about twice a year. This is also a great time to get rid of any clutter that has built up in the past months. Sift through what you haven’t touched in the past six months, and donate it.

Photo: https://www.pexels.com/photo/flat-lay-photography-of-calendar-1020323/

These incredibly simple tips can get your home in tip-top shape. Mornings will be a breeze, and evenings will be more enjoyable. What are you waiting for? Get organizing. It’s not as hard as you think.

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

The Dog Days of Summer

Cool Color Inspiration to Help You Beat the Heat

It’s the time of year when even a quick swim or run through the sprinkler isn’t enough to make the sticky heat enjoyable. The crisp days of fall seem just within reach, yet aren’t close enough to touch. Hot and humid air is here to stay, at least for a little bit longer.

That’s why we’ve rounded up some inspiration from our showroom to cool things down. Cool colors like blue, green and purple bathe a space in refreshing calmness. Mix the shades in with your warm and neutral colors, or even let them stand on their own. Use them anywhere—accents, artwork, linens and furniture.

Feel the breeze yet? The dog days of summer just got a little less humid.

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Photos: Michaela Satterfield

Interior Design Around the World

Japan

Photo: https://pixabay.com/photos/apartment-view-interior-room-3564955/

One of the best ways to step out of your style comfort zone is to try an interior design style from another country. There is an endless world of design possibility out there. Most of these design styles have trickled to the United States in one way or another, but their uniqueness is still not as well known. 

The Japanese interior design style is one that would suit those who enjoy clean, modern spaces. Minimalists feel at home in spaces like these. The Japanese style puts more emphasis on space than it does on the things filling a space. This is the opposite of most European styles, which are known for specific accents or types of furniture. Japanese principles include balance, order and natural beauty. 

What else? Read on to discover more attributes of Japanese interior design.

Layout

Japanese interiors emphasize open space. Don’t make things crowded; use as little furniture as possible. Many Japanese spaces don’t even use interior walls to split things up--they opt for movable screens instead. This keeps the entire space open.

Photo: https://pixabay.com/photos/asia-live-living-room-japanese-4209448/

Textures 

Much of Japanese design is based off of nature. The goal of a Japanese interior is to become one with nature. This means many textures used in Japanese spaces are those that can be found in nature. One specific example is wood, which is used abundantly in Japanese homes. Find it on floors, frames and doors. 

Accents

As with everything else, keep the accessories minimal. Japanese spaces are as uncluttered as possible. Use plants, like bamboo or bonsai, to spruce things up.

Photo: https://pixabay.com/photos/bamboo-forest-green-plant-wood-20936/

Color

Colors, like other aspects of Japanese design, are also based off of nature. Soft blues and greens, along with neutrals, work well. Make sure colors are muted, as the goal of a Japanese space is to be relaxing and blend in with nature. 

Deck out your whole home with the Japanese design style, or simply incorporate a few of the design principles for a calmer, more relaxing space.

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Sources:

https://www.impressiveinteriordesign.com/japanese-interior-design-the-concept-and-decorating-ideas/

http://www.home-designing.com/2012/12/japanese-style-minimalist-inspiration

The Best of Both Worlds

Transitional Interior Design

Photo: Michaela Satterfield

If there is one style that James Décor is known by, it would be transitional interior design. A mix of traditional and contemporary pieces, seamlessly brought together in the same space, is the trademark of this timeless style. While many are deeply divided between traditional and contemporary styles, those who can’t decide will be happy to know there is a middle ground. With the transitional style, you can truly have your cake and eat it too.

It’s important to note that transitional design is different than eclectic design. Eclectic design is more scattered, combining things that typically wouldn’t go together. Transitional design is intended to be cohesive.

The key to pulling off transitional design is making sure the two styles are mixed together well. You don’t want there to be too many pieces of either style—balance is essential. Typical color palettes are neutral. Nothing should stand out, because it should all work smoothly together. The style veers on the side of minimalism, but isn’t too cold and stark like some modern spaces. You won’t want to overdo it with the accessories. The ones you choose should be tasteful and well-planned. Large pieces of artwork are common.

To see what the transitional style is all about, take a stroll through our showroom. Our interior designers are experts on the style.

Out with the old and in with the new? Neither. You can keep both.

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Sources:

https://freshome.com/transitional-design/

https://www.housebeautiful.com/design-inspiration/a24895237/what-is-transitional-design/