Leslie’s Favorite Design Projects

Leslie has worked in the design industry for 20 years and has worked on countless projects. Leslie and her team approach every project that sets L. Moore Designs apart from the rest. With a mix of classic and eclectic, formal and relaxed, fine and rustic, every space becomes a mix of styles, making it unique to each client. While every project is different, we sat down with Leslie to find out what her favorite design projects have been over the years.  

 

What were your favorite projects you’ve worked on?

“Love so many, but will note these…

 

Supple Reno – This project was for clients that I have been working with on-going for 20 years. In a long-term relationship like this, we are able to cut to the chase as far as aesthetics for the project. This was very challenging because it was a very intrusive project in their lives while they were living through the reno of the kitchen, casual dining space, family rooms, and having 2 bathrooms in other parts of the house gutted at the same time. This client was very engaged during the process, which is very important because many people just want to check out and leave decisions up to the contractor or subs, assuming the decisions will be ones that they like and then they don’t end up liking the end result. There are countless decisions to be made on a daily basis, so it is important that the clients, designer, and contractor get on the same page early on.

East Barrett Road: This was a great project because the clients (new clients) were ready and willing to go with a whole new look from what they previously had and were making a move to a new house that did not require any renovating, so it was all about furniture, fabrics, finishes, and artwork and accessories which is nice sometimes to get away from construction details which can be very consuming for all. They really trusted me to give them the casual but lovely environment that they wanted to live in and enjoy. They wanted nothing formal. The spaces are relaxed and peaceful and really just invite you in to sit and stay awhile.

Trade Street – this one was fun because I got to work in a loft-style building in downtown Winston-Salem. I had worked with the client on a previous new build which was over 5,000 sq ft. And the client was downsizing to approx. 2,000.00 square feet, so the challenge was how do we pare down all of the most favorite items to fit and work in the new space, which was also a very different style from the previous home. We also ended up needing to buy some new furniture because the buyers of the previous home bought some of the client’s furniture, but that let us really get seating more conducive to the open living space. The client was thrilled with the end result and continues to be after several years there.”

Is there a specific style you love to work with?

“Eclectic, mixing of styles creates more of a timeless look rather than a look that in 10 years time you can mark the decade that it was from. Many times with repeat work for clients, when we are reusing or updating spaces, we repurpose a lot of items previously purchased and maybe update with new fabrics, but if we choose well to begin with, we can re-incorporate and give pieces new life.”

Ready to work on a design project of your own? Reach out to the team today or check out the portfolio for more design inspiration! 

How the Pandemic Changed How We Design Our Homes

The pandemic has not only changed how we live our day-to-day lives, but it has changed the inside of our homes. It resulted in many of us spending more time in our homes, making it essential to design for form and function. Being at home helped bring to light what we needed to add to our living spaces to help make day-to-day life easier and more enjoyable, ultimately creating a living area that would suit all of our needs, from working to relaxing. From structural to aesthetic, we’ve put together a list of some critical changes in home design that we see due to the pandemic.

Private Spaces

Open layouts have been trendy for years, but we are now seeing more and more private spaces being created. The pandemic created a need for private rooms for studying, working, or getting cozy on the couch. Having an open layout does now allow you to dedicate certain spaces for specific functions. From designing spaces when building to adding key furniture pieces to separate rooms, having a dedicated area for particular functions has become a key feature in home design.

Home Offices 

Having a dedicated workstation has become a high priority in most homes. Working remotely from the kitchen counter is perfect for a day or two but tends to be uncomfortable in long-term circumstances. Dedicating a corner of a room or an extra room in the home to your home office makes it easy to leave the workday behind and relax. From office decor to desk design, creating a space that allows you to have the space to work will result in a more productive day and get you off the couch. It also allows you to create space for work accessories and even set up an aesthetically pleasing Zoom background. 

Bold Colors

Neutrals have always been popular, but bold colors are great for making a space feel more lively. From colorful kitchens to moody bedrooms, we are starting to see more homes embrace colors and patterns. If committing to a wall color seems too tricky, opt for accent pieces in bold shades to liven up your space. It will add decor as well as color.  

Creative Spare Rooms 

We are seeing more and more spare rooms being used for just about anything. Unused spaces, like basements, are perfect for making a multipurpose room. Turn it into a home gym, guest room, home office, or even a craft room!  

Added Texture

Texture can change the look and feel of a space, making it feel more cozy and warm. We are seeing more textured items being added to rooms to help make the area feel more welcoming and easy to relax. From soft rugs to throw blankets, these soft and textured items will help add a cozy appeal. 

Cozy Outdoor Spaces 

While outdoor spaces have always been appreciated, homeowners are taking more time for themselves to relax. From tables and chairs to adding TVs to covered porches, it helps change the scenery after a long day of work and helps you utilize your outdoor space in nice weather. 

A Place to Unplug 

Being home during a pandemic made it really important to have a space to unplug (alone and with family.) It’s great for kicking back and relaxing with a good book, meditating, and being with your family. It’s full of cozy essentials like throw blankets, pillows, and oversized chairs to curl up in. 

Dinner Spaces 

The pandemic causes more and more people to cook at home together, creating a reason to come together and enjoy meals more often together, all from home. From updating kitchen cabinets to redoing the floors, creating a kitchen space that is functional and inviting is an easy way to make it the ultimate gathering space. Adding in a kitchen island helps create a reason to cook together while adding stylish storage.  

Reach out to start designing your space today.