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Create a Home that Grows with You from Age 1-100

by Rachel Blindauer | Mar 4, 2024 | Interior Design

Aging in Place thru Universal Design Principals

Create a home that grows with you from the start. Universal Design principals are the key to home life ease and retirement success! Universal Design principals used during the design process create a space that is inclusive of the elderly and children resulting in a better thought out space. Older adults can and do continue living independently in their own homes and communities as they age. A recent study by AARP finding that 77% of 50 year olds and above prefer to age in place. This preference is also supported by multiple studies that highlight the numerous benefits of aging in place.

One of the key components of aging in place is the home itself. However, a report from 2020 estimated that only 10% of American homes are considered “aging ready,” meaning they are equipped to meet the needs of older adults (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9495472/). This suggests that there is a significant gap between the desire to age in place and the actual readiness of homes to support this lifestyle.

Despite this challenge, there are compelling reasons why aging in place is favored. A familiar environment can provide a strong sense of identity and allow older adults to utilize neighborhood services and resources, fostering a greater sense of community and connection (https://www.forbes.com/health/healthy-aging/aging-in-place-statistics/). Additionally, aging in place offers the comfort and security of being surrounded by cherished possessions, family, and pets, which can contribute to overall well-being and happiness[5](https://gero.usc.edu/students/current-students/careers-in-aging/the-value-of-aging-in-place/).

Furthermore, aging in place can result in potential cost savings at both the individual and societal levels. Recent studies on home-based health programs have shown that aging in place can lead to cost savings for individuals, as well as for state and federal governments (https://www.huduser.gov/portal/periodicals/em/fall13/highlight2.html). By minimizing the need for institutional care and medical interventions, aging in place can help reduce healthcare costs while promoting independence and autonomy.

As we age, it becomes increasingly important to create an environment that supports our changing needs. Aging in place is the concept of designing and adjusting our homes to accommodate the physical and emotional challenges that come with getting older. All commercial bathrooms are designed for the American Disabilities act, so the bathrooms can be attractive but it needs to be planned for ideally at the architecture stage so you have enough space and wide enough doors. Below we will explore some key elements to consider when designing an age-friendly home.

1. Safety First:

One of the primary goals of aging in place is to ensure safety within the home. Installing grab bars in the bathroom, improving lighting, and removing tripping hazards are just a few examples of safety modifications that can be made. By taking these steps, we can prevent accidents and promote independence.

2. Accessibility:

Another crucial aspect of designing an age-friendly home is improving accessibility. This includes a no step entrance, main level living, wide doorways to accommodate mobility aids like wheelchairs or walkers, not having multiple floors, and installing barrier free showers. If you have a Montessori kid or a family member in a wheel chair consider putting dishes in drawers so they can reach it and set the table. By removing the barriers for children and elderly, we can ensure that every part of the home is accessible to individuals with different physical abilities.

3. Functional and Comfortable Living Spaces:

As we age, it’s essential to have living spaces that are both functional and comfortable. Consider incorporating adjustable features such as height-adjustable countertops or adjustable beds. Additionally, choose furniture and decor that prioritize comfort and ease of use. By creating spaces that cater to our changing needs, we can maintain a sense of independence and enhance our overall well-being.

4. Smart Home Technology:

Embracing smart home technology can greatly enhance the aging-in-place experience. Automated lighting systems, voice-activated assistants, and motion sensor faucets are just a few examples of how technology can make daily tasks more manageable. These innovations not only promote convenience but also increase safety and security within the home.

5. Emotional Well-being:

Incorporate natural light, views and integrate ways to exercise into your lifestyle. Additionally, consider incorporating elements that evoke happy memories, such as displaying family photos or cherished mementos.

6. Other Keys to Retirement Success:

Home maintenance services like lawn and landscapers, handymen and HVAC technicians

Food and meal delivery services such as Peapod, Amazon and your local restaurants

Personal caregiving for help with bathing, dressing, cooking and walking

Home therapies with Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Speech Therapists

Cleaning services for your house, vents, gutters, and pressure washing

Ridesharing services such as Uber, Lyft or your local senior transit

Telemedicine and health monitoring to communicate with your doctors without actually having to be with them in person

Remote banking and financial services to manage your finances from the comfort of your home

Safety and security services such as cell phones, call buttons, and remote door cameras

By implementing these strategies, we can create homes that support us as we age, allowing us to maintain our independence and quality of life. Remember, aging in place is not just about the physical modifications but also about fostering the spirit, comfort of home, social engagement and saving money by not using facilities.

Take the first step towards creating your dream space. If you are a couple with multiple homes looking for a decorator near you, a hotelier doing a redesign, or a developer looking for top-notch interior design services near you, Rachel Blindauer and her team are here to bring your vision to life. With our wealth of experience and expertise, we can create stunning and functional spaces that exceed your expectations and bring you to a new height of design and sophistication.

GET STARTED TODAY

Let Rachel Blindauer help you think through your project starting with a complimentary consultation.

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Ultimate Lighting Guide

by Rachel Blindauer | Mar 4, 2024 | Interior Design

When it comes to interior design, lighting plays a crucial role in creating the right atmosphere and enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your space. Whether you’re renovating your home or designing a new one, it’s important to understand the different types of lighting available and how to use them effectively. In this expert guide, we will explore the importance of lighting in interior design and provide valuable insights on how to effectively utilize different types of lighting to transform any space into a visually stunning and functional masterpiece.

The right lighting can make or break a room. It has the power to transform a dull space into a warm and inviting haven, or a vibrant and energetic environment. It involves the deliberate use of light to create a desired ambience, highlight specific features, and provide functional illumination for various tasks. By combining these types effectively, you can create a layered lighting scheme that not only illuminates your space adequately but also adds depth and visual interest. All while ensuring all light color is matching across the property. Kelvins (k) denote the temperature scale, so the higher the number, the whiter the light. Cool, whiter light (3000K) is cold, ugly and blue often seen in commercial kitchens, while warm light (1800K-2700K) is best for cozy spaces like bedrooms, living rooms, and restaurants.

Layering

Layering involves combining different types of lighting to create depth and dimension in a room. By using a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting, you can achieve a layered lighting effect that adds visual interest and flexibility to your space. For example, you can use recessed lighting or track lighting as your ambient lighting, task lighting such as desk lamps or under-cabinet lights for specific activities, and accent lighting like spotlights or wall sconces to highlight architectural features or artwork. This layering of light sources allows you to create different moods and adapt the lighting to various activities or occasions.

Ambient Lighting:

This type of lighting provides overall illumination to a room. It ensures a comfortable level of brightness and allows for general visibility within the space. The goal of ambient lighting is to create a soft, diffused light that evenly illuminates the entire space without any harsh shadows. This can be achieved through the use of chandeliers, pendant lights, flush mounts, recessed lighting, or even natural light sources like windows and skylights.

Task Lighting:

Task lighting is designed to provide focused illumination for specific activities such as reading, cooking, or working. It helps reduce eye strain and allows for efficient completion of tasks. This includes Bedroom Bedside Lights and gooseneck reading spot lights. Task lighting should be adjustable and placed strategically to prevent glare and shadows. Table lamps, desk lamps, under-cabinet lighting, and track lighting are popular choices for task lighting. Above a kitchen island, fixtures should reach around 30″ to 36″ from the countertop and multiples should be placed 30″ apart for optimal airflow and light spread. A 30″ to 36″ drop rule applies to lights above dining tables, but you’ll want to get your proportions right: your chosen piece should be at least 6″ narrower than the width of your table, and with round styles, between 1/2 and 3/4 of the diameter. Bathroom/ Wet Rated/Outdoor Lights – Sconces 5’ on center fixtures. For an effective spread of light, an outdoor light fixture should measure at least 1/4 the height of the door.

Accent Lighting:

Accent lighting is used to highlight specific features or objects in a room, such as artwork, architectural details, collectibles, candle light and fire light. It adds drama and visual interest to your space by creating focal points. It can be achieved through the use of spotlights, track lighting, wall sconces, or picture lights. The key is to ensure that the intensity and direction of the light draw attention to the desired element without overpowering the overall lighting scheme. Picture lights should be angled at 30 degrees from the piece, and measure half the width of the framed piece below it.

Dimmers and Controls

Installing dimmers and lighting controls is a great way to enhance the versatility of your lighting design. Dimmers allow you to adjust the intensity of light, creating a more dynamic and customizable lighting experience. They also help save energy by reducing the amount of electricity used when dimmed. Additionally, lighting controls such as timers or motion sensors can automate the operation of your lights, making them more convenient and efficient.

Natural Light Integration

Integrating natural light into your lighting design can have a significant impact on the overall ambiance of your space. Consider the placement of windows, skylights, or light tubes to maximize the amount of natural light entering the room. Natural light not only enhances the visual appeal of your space but also provides numerous health benefits, such as boosting mood and productivity. However, it’s important to control and filter natural light to avoid glare and excessive heat gain.

Energy Efficiency & Avoid Glitchy Leds

LED (light-emitting diode) are only a good idea when they are not glitchy on a dimmer. WARNING MOST LEDS ARE GLITCHY AND NOT DIMMER FRIENDLY. That includes under counter light strips, etc.

Landscape Lighting

Landscape lighting encompasses bullet lights, flood lights, motion sensors, deck lighting, security lighting, and well and wash lights from landscape lighting to security lighting. My favorite vendor is https://www.voltlighting.com/

Lighting is an essential element of interior design that can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your space. By understanding the different types of lighting fixtures, incorporating effective lighting techniques, and considering energy efficiency, you can create a well-designed and harmonious living environment tailored to your needs and style. Remember to experiment, play with different lighting combinations to find the perfect balance.

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Coastal Interior Design

by Rachel Blindauer | Mar 1, 2024 | Color, Interior Design

Picture this: a serene coastal retreat, right in the comfort of your own home. With beach interior design, you can transform any space into a coastal oasis that exudes relaxation and tranquility. Whether you prefer a minimalistic and modern look (as seen above) or a more tropical and vibrant style, there are endless possibilities to bring the beach vibes indoors. Here we will explore how to create your own beach-inspired haven.

Embracing the Outdoors

One of the key features of beach interior design is the incorporation of elements that evoke a sense of the outdoors. This can be achieved through various means, such as using natural materials, incorporating beach-inspired colors, and integrating elements like shells and nautical motifs. By bringing the outside in, you can create a space that truly captures the essence of the beach.

Coastal Chic: Refined and Classic

While a beachy vibe is more relaxed and carefree, coastal interior design emphasizes a more refined and classic look. Clean lines and rigid shapes are commonly used in coastal design to create a sophisticated aesthetic. This style incorporates a neutral palette with pops of coastal colors like blues and whites to achieve a timeless and elegant look.

Less is More

In designing a sophisticated coastal chic home, it’s important to adopt the principle of “less is more”. Instead of overwhelming the space with seashell-themed decor, focus on carefully selected pieces that make a big impact. This minimalist approach allows the beauty of the coastal elements to shine through without overcrowding the space.

Vernacular Architecture and Formal Dining

To bring timeless style to your coastal home, consider incorporating vernacular architecture and creating a formal or semi-formal dining room[1](https://www.southernliving.com/home/decor/best-beach-house-design-trends). Vernacular architecture refers to the traditional local architectural style of a region. By incorporating elements of the local architectural style, you can create a sense of authenticity and connection to the coastal environment.

Texture as a Statement

Textures play a significant role in beach interior design, serving as a statement and adding depth to your space. When selecting textiles for your beach-inspired haven, opt for light and breezy fabrics that channel the relaxed coastal vibe. Consider incorporating linen curtains that allow natural light to filter through, or choose slipcovers made of cotton or soft, durable fabrics for your furniture.

To enhance the beachy ambiance, incorporate linens. Additionally, striped patterns reminiscent of beach umbrellas or nautical-inspired textiles can add a playful and coastal touch to your beach interior design.

Don’t forget about the importance of comfort when it comes to textiles. Incorporate plush area rugs made of natural fibers, such as sisal or jute, to create a cozy and beachy feel underfoot. Layering different textures, such as a chunky knit throw or woven pillows, can add warmth and depth to your living space.

In conclusion, beach interior design is all about creating a tranquil and coastal atmosphere in your home. By embracing the outdoors, incorporating refined and classic elements, and adopting a minimalist approach, you can bring the serene and refreshing ambiance of the beach into your living space. Consider incorporating elements of vernacular architecture and using textiles as a statement to enhance the coastal aesthetic. With these trends and ideas, you can create your own beach-inspired haven that transports you to a relaxing seaside retreat.

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Yes, Kid Friendly Interiors Can Look This Good.

by Interior Design + Furniture Design | Feb 23, 2024 | Interior Design

Importance of Kid-Friendly Interiors

Having kid-friendly interiors is essential for creating a safe and enjoyable space. It involves choosing durable materials and furniture that can withstand the wear and tear from children. Everything has evolved to a point where kid-friendly interiors, really don’t look any much different then a normal great interior, there is just a lot more thought put into creating it. You can create a welcoming environment where your children can play freely without causing too much damage. Childproofing your home and incorporating elements that are both functional and stylish can ensure that your interiors remain aesthetically pleasing while being conducive to a child-friendly environment.

Interior Design By Rachel Blindauer

Design Tips for Kid-Friendly Interiors

Keep in mind that kid-friendly interiors can still look stylish and attractive. Here are some design tips to consider:

Opt for durable and easy-to-clean materials such as leather, solution dyed acrylic (aka outdoor fabric) fabric or performance fabrics for furniture and upholstery.
Use washable, stain-resistant paint for walls
Choose furniture with rounded edges to prevent accidents and injuries.
Incorporate plenty of storage solutions to keep toys and clutter organized and out of sight.

Selecting Durable and Stain-Resistant Materials

When choosing materials for kid-friendly interiors, it’s important to opt for durable and stain-resistant options. This can ensure that your home remains stylish and practical, even with little ones around. Look for materials such as performance fabric for sofas and chairs, easy-to-clean flooring like laminate or vinyl, and stain-resistant surfaces for countertops and tables. These materials are designed to withstand the wear and tear of everyday family life, making it easier to maintain a beautiful and functional living space.

Incorporating Playful and Functional Furniture

When designing a kid-friendly space, it’s important to choose furniture that is both fun and practical. Consider investing in items like convertible cribs that grow with your child, storage ottomans that double as seating, and colorful bookshelves with easy-to-reach shelves. Functional furniture is a key component of a child-friendly interior, providing both practicality and style.

Child-Safe Decor Ideas

When decorating for kids, safety comes first. Opt for furniture with rounded edges and avoid sharp corners. Choose non-toxic paints and materials for furniture and toys. Install cordless window treatments to prevent accidents. Consider using washable, stain-resistant fabrics for upholstery and carpets. Use furniture straps to secure heavy items and prevent tipping. Apply soft padding to sharp corners and edges. Always ensure that electrical outlets are covered with childproof caps. Prioritize safety while creating a playful and stylish living space for your little ones.

Creating Safe Play Zones

When creating a safe play zone for kids, it’s important to prioritize their safety without compromising on aesthetics. Consider the following tips to achieve a kid-friendly interior that looks good:

Use soft, non-toxic materials for furniture and flooring to minimize the risk of injury.
Opt for rounded edges on furniture to prevent any potential accidents.
Incorporate ample storage solutions for toys and play items to keep the space tidy and organized.
Choose vibrant, playful colors to stimulate creativity and energy in the play zone.
Implement childproof locks on cabinets and drawers to ensure hazardous items are out of reach.
Consider incorporating a variety of interactive and educational toys to encourage learning and development in the space.

By following these guidelines, you can create a visually appealing and safe play area for kids to enjoy.

Balancing Style and Practicality

When designing kid-friendly interiors, it’s important to find a balance between style and practicality. You can achieve this by choosing furniture and decor that are both aesthetically pleasing and durable. Look for materials that are easy to clean and maintain, such as stain-resistant fabrics and hardwood floors. Consider incorporating storage solutions that are both functional and stylish, such as built-in shelves and multi-purpose furniture. By striking the right balance between style and practicality, you can create a space that is both kid-friendly and visually appealing.

Organizing and Storage Solutions

Kid-friendly interiors can look stylish and organized with smart storage solutions. Here are some ideas to keep your space clutter-free and safe for your little ones:

Utilize multi-functional furniture such as storage ottomans, built-in bookshelves, and toy chests.
Use open shelving for easy access to toys and books, and colorful bins or baskets for quick cleanup.
Consider wall-mounted hooks for backpacks, jackets, and hats, keeping the floor clear of clutter.
Use furniture with rounded edges and soft materials to prevent bumps and injuries.
Create designated play areas with kid-friendly furniture and storage for toys and games.

Lighting and Color Choices for Kid-Friendly Interiors

When designing kid-friendly interiors, it’s important to choose lighting and colors that are both practical and visually appealing. Opt for bright, vibrant colors that can withstand wear and tear. Consider using washable, stain-resistant paints and durable, easy-to-clean fabrics. Incorporate playful, interactive lighting options, such as colorful pendant lights or fun-shaped lamps, to create an inviting and engaging space for children. Natural light is also essential, so maximize windows and add sheer curtains to let in plenty of daylight. Soft, warm lighting in the evening can create a cozy and calming atmosphere for bedtime stories and relaxation.

Conclusion: Achieving Stylish and Safe Interiors for Kids

To sum it up, creating stylish and safe interiors for kids is entirely possible. By focusing on durable and easy-to-clean materials, incorporating playful and colorful elements, and ensuring proper safety measures, you can achieve a space that is both fun and practical for your little ones. Remember to prioritize functionality and safety without compromising style, and you can create a kid-friendly interior that looks good and meets the needs of your family.

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Expert Tips for Successful Kitchen Renovations

by Interior Design + Furniture Design | Feb 13, 2024 | Interior Design

Transform Your Kitchen into a Stylish and Functional Space

Are you considering a kitchen renovation? The kitchen is the heart of the home, where family and friends gather to create memories and share meals. A well-designed kitchen not only enhances your daily cooking experience but also adds value to your home. In this blog post, we will provide expert tips and insights to help you achieve a successful kitchen renovation. From design considerations to material selection, we’ll guide you through the process of transforming your kitchen into a stylish and functional space.

Planning and Design

Before starting any renovation project, proper planning and design are crucial. Here are some expert tips to consider:

Assess your needs: Determine how you use your kitchen and what improvements you would like to make. Consider factors such as storage, workflow, and seating areas.
Create a layout: Work with a professional designer to create a functional layout that maximizes space and efficiency.
Consider lighting: Proper lighting is essential in the kitchen. Plan for a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a well-lit and inviting space.
Choose durable materials: Opt for high-quality, durable materials that can withstand the demands of a busy kitchen. Consider factors such as scratch resistance, easy maintenance, and longevity.

Cabinetry and Storage Solutions

Cabinetry plays a significant role in both the functionality and aesthetics of your kitchen. Here’s what experts recommend:

Custom or semi-custom cabinets: Custom or semi-custom cabinets allow you to maximize storage space and create a cohesive look. Consider features such as soft-close hinges and full-extension drawers.
Consider organizational solutions: Incorporate clever storage solutions such as pull-out pantry shelves, built-in spice racks, and drawer dividers to keep your kitchen organized and clutter-free.
Mix and match finishes: Experiment with mixing different finishes for your cabinets, such as combining painted and stained wood, to create visual interest and depth.

Countertops and Backsplashes

The right countertop and backsplash can elevate the overall look of your kitchen. Consider these expert tips:

Choose durable countertop materials: Quartz, granite, and marble are popular choices for their durability and aesthetic appeal. Select a material that suits your lifestyle and design preferences.

Coordinate with backsplash: Your backsplash should match your countertop

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Let Rachel Blindauer help you think through your project starting with a complimentary consultation.

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The Best Colors To Live in & Wear If You’re A Summer Color Palette

by Interior Design + Furniture Design | Feb 9, 2024 | Color, Interior Design

Summers are characterized by warm weather, sunny days, and vibrant energy. To complement this delightful season, it is important to choose colors that evoke a sense of freshness, brightness, and coolness. In this blog post, we will explore the best colors to live in and wear if you’re a Summer Color Palette.

Understanding the Summer Color Palette

Before diving into the specific colors, let’s understand what the Summer Color Palette represents. Summer is one of the four seasons in the color analysis system, where individuals are categorized into different color palettes based on their skin tone, hair color, and eye color. The Summer Color Palette typically features cool undertones, delicate hues, and soft shades.

Living in the Colors of Summer

When it comes to interior design, choosing the right colors for your living space can greatly impact the atmosphere and overall vibe. Here are some of the best colors to live in if you’re a Summer Color Palette:

Sky Blue: The color of clear summer skies, sky blue brings a sense of tranquility and calmness to any room. It pairs well with white and neutral tones, creating a light and airy ambiance.

Lavender: Soft and soothing, lavender adds a touch of elegance to your living space. It works well as an accent color or as the main color for a bedroom or relaxation area.
Mint Green: Mint green is a refreshing color that brings a cool and rejuvenating feel to a room. It can be used as a wall color or incorporated through furniture and decor pieces.

Wearing the Best Colors for Summer

Just as colors can transform your living space, they can also enhance your personal style and appearance. Here are some of the best colors to wear if you have a Summer Color Palette:

Light and airy blues: Shades like sky blue or periwinkle can create a fresh and breezy look, perfect for summer outfits. Pair them with white or beige for a stylish and summery ensemble.

Soft pinks: Rose quartz or salmon shades can bring a touch of femininity and elegance to your wardrobe. These colors can be worn in dresses, tops, or even accessories like scarves or handbags.
Cool-toned neutrals: Dove gray or pale beige are versatile colors that can be easily incorporated into your summer wardrobe. They provide a subtle and sophisticated backdrop for other colors and patterns.Remember to consider your personal style and preferences when incorporating colors into your outfits. Experiment with different combinations and find what makes you feel confident and comfortable.

Additional Tips for Incorporating Colors

To fully embrace the essence of a Summer Color Palette, consider the following tips for incorporating colors into your living space and wardrobe:

Accent pieces: Start small by adding accent pillows, drapes, or artwork that feature the soft hues of summer. These small touches can make a big impact on the overall ambiance of your home.

Statement walls: If you’re feeling bold, consider painting a statement wall in one of the recommended summer colors. This can add a vibrant and energetic focal point to your living space.

Furniture choices: When selecting furniture, opt for pieces in the recommended summer colors. This can create a cohesive and visually appealing look in your home.

Accessories: In your wardrobe, incorporate summer colors through accessories like jewelry, handbags, or shoes. These can add pops of color to your outfits and tie everything together.

Remember, there are no strict rules when it comes to incorporating colors. Feel free to experiment, mix and match, and create a living space and wardrobe that truly reflects your personal style and embraces the beauty of the Summer Color Palette.

Understanding and embracing your Summer Color Palette can greatly enhance both your living spaces and personal style. By incorporating the recommended colors, you can create a harmonious environment that reflects the essence of summer.

Whether you choose to live in the best colors for summer or wear them in your outfits, the key is to choose colors that make you feel vibrant, fresh, and confident. So go ahead, explore the world of summer colors, and create a space and wardrobe that truly celebrates the beauty of the season!

Take the first step towards creating your dream space. Weather you are a couple with multiple homes looking for a decorator near you, a hotelier doing a redesign, or a developer looking for top-notch interior design services near you, Rachel Blindauer and her team are here to bring your vision to life. With our wealth of experience and expertise, we can create stunning and functional spaces that exceed your expectations and bring you to a new height of design and sophistication.

Get Started Today

Let Rachel Blindauer help you think through your project starting with a complimentary consultation.

New Client Inquiries

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