Author Archives: Brad Miller

Transformed Kitchen

It’s a sign of trust when former clients contact us to update a previously completed project.  After 16 years of entertaining and enjoying their city home, they needed their luxury condominium on Michigan Avenue updated for resale.  Since they just needed a simple refresh, they required a solution that wouldn’t end up costing them too much money or taking too much time to create.

The main focus was the kitchen.  In order to settle down the orange cabinetry color that existed when they purchased the home, I suggested painting the cabinetry a soft black that would compliment the existing Giallo Venetian granite countertops and avoid having to replace them and incurring an additional cost.

When people hear the word “Black” they are concerned that the color will be too dark and overwhelming. Contrary, black can create an elegant and bold aspect to your space. I explained to the client that when used in the right way it can psychologically influence people’s purchasing power. Hesitant at first, they approved painting the kitchen island. Realizing the impact “black” had they approved painting all the cabinetry. We also replaced the upper cabinetry glass inserts and painted the interiors of those cabinets white to contrast the black to create more interest.

This was a quick, inexpensive fix for the space. The home sold quickly at the price they desired.

We know how color can impact each person’s space and appreciate the trust of our clients.

Refreshed

Streeterville, Chicago

I have known CINDY Howard for over 22 years. When my husband & I first purchased our condo 20 years ago at the Park Hyatt she was instrument in helping us create the floor plan, lighting, furniture layout as well as paint colors & fabrics. She was terrific to work with & made the whole process seamless & enjoyable. 18 years later Cindy once again helped us do a refresh on our condo. Again she did an outstanding job!

In addition I have recommended her services on several occasions to clients of mine. I sell condos primarily in the Gold Coast. They were extremely pleased with her professionalism & the results. They also had her do a refresh after 15 years.

I would highly recommend her to anyone needing design help."

-Randi F.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

Using mirrors to add light, space and more…

Mirrors aren’t just for looking at ourselves as we do our hair.  Mirrors can be an element in a room that enhances the light, space, and more. In the hands of a designer, a mirror can be a subtle, sophisticated element that creates interest and enhances a room.

As an example, let’s look at this kitchen we designed for a client in Naples, Florida. We used mirrors on the custom pantry decorative doors to stimulate the eye and bring an element of interest while concealing stored items. The mirrors reflect and bring in the beautiful palm tree-lined ocean view. They also bring in extra natural light that complements the space. Adding a trellis style door overlay on the mirrors personalized the clients space. The result is a kitchen that is high in style and brightness that goes far beyond the reflection offered with simple glass doors.

Also, we used mirrors in the family room and repeated the trellis door style element to create a harmonious space. The mirrors here don’t serve the tradition functions but expand the space, brighten the space, and reflects the outdoor tropical view.

The Case for Case Goods

Custom is Key

Howard Design Group has a deep knowledge of vendors and isn’t limited to sourcing existing furniture. If the perfect piece doesn’t exist for our client’s space, it can be created.

To deliver more diverse choices for our clients, the firm specializes in bespoke-designed furniture. From both freestanding case goods to built-ins, we have cultivated premium vendor partners in the business to construct each piece with the highest level of craftsmanship. Giving our clients greater choices and an opportunity for the design to accommodate their individual style and needs at the same time. Creating a room that is more functional and stylish.

 

Interior Designer or Interior Decorator?

Just what is the difference?

You need to transform your space or maybe just update it, but do you need an interior decorator or an interior designer?  Are they the same thing?

Interior decorators and interior designers are not the same thing, even if some people have used the terms interchangeably. They are similar professions, but an interior designer does so much more.

Interior Decorating

Interior decorators primarily focus on aesthetics and don’t participate in renovations or structural planning. You bring a decorator after the structures are completed to focus on the  look of the space.

Skilled decorators come into a room and transform it. They work with the client to determine the best style for the space and also how the space should function. By choosing the right colors, materials, finishes,  and furniture, they create the look of the space.

Interior Design

An interior designer can accomplish what an interior decorator can do, but they are not limited to only decorating.  Interior designers are skilled with spatial planning and can help design and renovate interiors. Your space can can be designed holistically from drawing up the initial floor plans to placing the last decorative accent. Think about a kitchen, you need it designed, not just decorated.

Interior designers can work closely with architects and contractors to help achieve the look the client desires.  The designer’s vision does not have to be limited by existing structures.

Even if you don’t need to move walls or disturb plumbing, an interior designer can be the right choice.  They have the abilities of a decorator and more.