Volume 37: December
What a year
It's our last newsletter of 2024 - our 20th year anniversary! Was it the easiest year? No. Did we have a blast continuing to work with amazing clients and remodeling their homes? Absofreakinlutely!
GREEN INSPIRED KITCHEN
Did you see our sneak peek from last month? Well, here it is!
We had so much fun designing this project with some really wonderful clients. They were ready to say goodbye to their 90s kitchen and hello to more color with natural wood accents.
The Smeg refrigerator was a must-have and plays into the vintage styling our client loves. A 36" range allows for more more pans on the cooktop as well as a larger oven. This was especially important as our client is an avid baker!
We chose a palette of green, brass, and oak to suit their tastes with touches of pink throughout. Shades of green can be found in the cabinetry and refrigerator as well as the lovely garden backdrop through the windows . Oak upper cabinets were designed to tie in with the new red oak floor. Rounded oak detailing can also be found in the paneled vent hood.
There are vintage touches throughout the kitchen and dining room to complement their 1930s cottage-style home with plaster walls and many original hardware features. This can be seen in the shelf brackets, cabinet hardware, and modern light fixtures that give a nod to the past.
To make better use of the square footage, we enclosed a narrow staircase to the driveway to make room for the pantry and to relocate the refrigerator. Cabinetry and countertops were installed to the back corner to highlight the beautiful view from the corner windows which had previously been hidden. The standard doorway going into the kitchen was enlarged to an open arch that mirrors the existing arch between the dining and living rooms along with the arched niche in the dining room. We designed the built-in buffet style cabinetry to improve storage and in a more formal style to appear as it could be original to the home.
A LOOK BACK
2024 played out a bit differently than years past with some surprises along the way. We were still able to work with our wonderful clients, attend fun and educational events, and continued to work on new challenges that helped us grow.
Our projects continued to bring new opportunities to flex our design muscles including prepping a family home to be listed for sale and more than one client making updates post-heartbreak. Both scenarios allow us to help clients create a fresh start, new beginnings if you will. We were successful in updating a five bedroom, three bathroom house in a competitive market to obtain top dollar and minimize time on the market. Top to bottom and inside and out, we selected paint colors and fixtures to allow the house to be home for the next owners.
It's always a perk when our projects are featured in the media; we were very proud of our Bathroom of the Week featured on Houzz. This all new bathroom was designed for dear repeat clients in a traditional style for their Tudor style home in Seattle. The NKBA Puget Sound Gala was a highlight, too, as we won awards for our Powder Room and Small Kitchen designs!
We continue to give back to our community as I was elected as the ASID Washington State President-Elect. I was active in ASID since attending design school and choose to be active again as we have a fantastic group of designers, vendors and manufacturers in Washington!
As we shared with you last month, we supported Providence O'Christmas Trees by designing a tree for their auction at the Westin Seattle, themed Christmas Memories. That tree was able to bring in $18,000 in donations for Providence Home and Community Care and was donated back to one of their residences. All good reasons to donate our time and efforts.
STAY TUNED FOR NEXT MONTH!
We have some new pictures in the works of a Bellevue home that we are updating with a sophisticated color palette and show stopping wallcoverings! You may have seen some behind the scenes on our Instagram page.
All the best to you and yours as we say goodbye to a helluva year and spend time with our loved ones.
Hugs to you from all of us!
Volume 36: November
We are Grateful!
As we are knee deep in the holiday season, we want to take a moment to wish you all the joy and fun that this time of year can bring. It's not always easy, so I hope you are connecting with loved ones with special time for celebration and reflection.
Growing up in my small Italian family, our holidays were centered around our meals. One of my favorite things to do during the holidays was to go to the Italian deli, grab a number and wait for the magic to be cut, prepped and sliced from behind the counter. My younger brother and I would crunch on the breadsticks they handed out to keep everyone quiet and patient as we waited. It worked as they were yummy! It's a memory that makes me smile and remember my loved ones that are no longer with us to celebrate.
What's your favorite holiday activity? Or one holiday you look forward to more than the others?
As the holiday season is prime time for entertaining, the kitchen often becomes the center of these gatherings. Whether it's baking cookies, preparing a festive meal, or simply gathering to enjoy each other's company, we are often huddled in the kitchen.
We've recently had the pleasure of completing a couple of kitchen remodels for some wonderful clients. If we've had the opportunity to speak about our design projects, you may have heard us talk about how much we love the diversity in our projects. It may be subtle at times, as kitchens have common features, but each one has specific elements for each family. Maybe it's a tile, maybe it's a color, maybe it's a view out the window....maybe it's all those things...
Kitchen with a view
This kitchen was a true delight to work on with a retired couple updating their forever home. We started by opening up the passageway from the dining room into the kitchen which allowed for more natural light and better access for multiple people to be and work in the kitchen together.
The new space showcases the large single basin sink under an existing larger window than in its previous location. Repositioning or augmenting the windows would prove cost-prohibitive with the brick exterior of the house so we worked with the existing kitchen layout.
For cabinetry, a beautiful Pacific Blue color was chosen for the lower cabinets, and Irish Linen for the uppers. The new Shaker upper cabinets were able to reach the ceiling by removing the soffit. We added small intentional cabinet details that play up the traditional style of the house. Those include the shiplap detail on the vent hood and at the end of the lower cabinets and an applied upper door.
For flooring we chose sheet vinyl in a neutral color palette as hardwood floors were not an option due to cost and the maintenance they would likely incur because of their 60lb. chocolate lab. The new flooring blended well with the adjacent original hardwood floors while fitting the budget and the paws of their beloved rescue dog.
An induction range was specified for its safety features and easy maintenance. Ease of use was also supported with the microwave drawer.
In addition, the passage door to the adjacent laundry room was upgraded with a full lite detail. Further supporting their request for a more open and bright feel in the kitchen.
The varied feature tile was placed on the range wall to balance the ever-changing landscape seen outside the windows. This porcelain tile, inspired by Japanese pottery, allowed for an unique pattern and was a fun group effort as we worked together and laid it out on the floor prior to installation.
Green Inspired kitchen
Here is a sneak peek of a recent completion for a 1930s home that was stuck with a '90s remodel. Our directive was to bring back vintage charm coupled with the modern conveniences of today. Keep an eye out next month for our full before and after reveal.
christmas trees
This year we are proud to again support the charitable efforts of Providence Home and Community Care through their O'Christmas Trees auction and events. They are celebrating their 40th anniversary of this festive event.
The theme for our tree this year is "Christmas Memories". Come down to check out the trees, stop by and say hi, and maybe bid on a tree of your own during one of the events December 2-4.
As we approach the end of year festivities, we wish you a season filled with happiness and cherished moments. Happy Thanksgiving and happy holidays to come!
Volume 35: August
Happy summer!
Isn’t August the best month? A perfect blend of the leisurely mindset of summer with the anticipation of back to school time. Sunshine calls for beach days and dinners al fresco. At Kirk Riley Design we are enjoying late summer days around the pool and visits with family and friends. Above is a picture from Roxann's (our business manager) recent vacation to Newport, RI to tour the Gilded Age mansions. I was fortunate to have visited as well some years ago and highly recommend it if you find yourself on the east coast. Would you like to officially meet our team?
The cabanas at the Fontainebleu from Heather's recent trip to Las Vegas visiting close friends.
From Jenny's recent trip to Northern Washington watching the moonlight over the water after a full day with family.
We’ve also been working on some colorful projects. Check out our Instagram for sneak peeks!
Bathroom of the Week
We are honored to share that one of our Seattle bathroom remodels was chosen as a Bathroom of the Week on Houzz! This bathroom showcases a combination of beautiful materials installed by skilled contractors and tradespeople.
With our project, "Wash The Blues Away," we were inspired by the vintage Tudor home and the client’s personal classic style. Standout elements that highlight vintage charm are our use of marble including the baseboards, antique inspired hardware, and textured wallpaper. Varying shades of blue were used in the painted inset cabinetry, strie wallpaper, and printed marble tile on the back wall. We also used a mix of finishes including the oil-rubbed bronze light fixtures and cabinet hardware along with brushed nickel plumbing fixtures.
The Pittock Double Sconces above each vanity mirror are focal points in the space, providing both illumination and charm. Their elegant curves and historic-inspired design enhance the overall ambiance. Pairing them with beautifully crafted Rigdon knobs and pulls creates a cohesive vintage aesthetic. We love sourcing modern reproductions that pay homage to classic design.
Now get out there an enjoy the sunshine!
Volume 34: July
Happy summer and cheers to the rest of 2024!
It’s always so surprising to see the calendar turn the halfway mark on the year. Six months can go by in the blink of an eye! Here’s a bit of what we have been up to the first half of 2024.
The beginning of this year included some amazing traveling, trade shows, and fortunately, a couple of fabulous installs for our clients.
Do you follow us on Instagram to see that we won two awards at the NKBA Puget Sound Gala?! Our designs of a kitchen and powder room were both winners. Deep down we know all of our clients are winners, contests can be difficult and you never know what may grab the judges’ eye.
Made in Spain
Heather’s trip to Spain with Cosentino included a tour of their factory. A highlight of the tour was seeing their natural stone showroom. Ay dios mio! Their hospitality also included a city tour of Granada.
Mid-Century Darling
We were honored to win 3rd Place | Small Kitchen for this project at the annual NKBA awards last month. This project was such fun to work on as we got to really lean into the mid-century vibe with a modern and natural twist.
Organic Aura
We were also quite excited to walk away with a 2nd Place | Powder Room win for this unique project that encompassed our clients’ style while complimenting the other design features within their home.
We can’t say enough about how blessed we are to work with such wonderful clients on each of our projects. Here’s to the second half of 2024!
Volume 33: March/April
It’s Our Birthday
If you haven’t heard us shout about it yet, 2024 is a big year for Kirk Riley Design. This year we celebrate our 20th anniversary!! Kirk Riley Design was started while I was still living in Southern California and continued working on projects there while I relocated to Seattle. I knew I wanted to be in a city and Seattle reminded me of Long Beach, also a port city, and a favorite that I lived in for several years. The first year was exciting as my business launched doing a showcase house that was also featured on a national program.
A Few Favorites
Years ago I got the opportunity to design a bathroom for Bath Crashers on DIY Network. Anyone remember that show where they would “find a couple” in a home improvement store and offer to help remodel their bathroom? That was fun to get to be so creative in the design and see all of the behind-the-scenes action for a week.
Having one of our kitchens featured in Portrait magazine (pictured above) over several glossy pages was also a proud moment.
Finally, being able to support Providence O’Christmas Tree for 10 years has been an incredibly fulfilling and heart-warming experience to contribute to.
On the Horizon
KBIS, the national annual kitchen and bath show, is a great way to get motivated for fresh product launches in the new year just before spring starts! This year did not disappoint as materials and appliances continue to push the envelope for creativity and functionality.
Color, color, and more color is what you are going to see more of in your kitchen and bathroom designs. You know we are always finding ways to use color in our designs so this is really exciting for us! Manufacturers are constantly working on the development of customization of handles and finishes. Think brass fronts, leather pulls, and custom color options for your refrigerators and ranges. Sound good? We are sure to see even more of this coming in the next couple of years.
I am passionate about design and I am proud of being a mom to an amazing daughter who sees how much I love developing this business.
Here’s to the next 20 years!
Volume 32: January/February
Thank you to our wonderful clients for a fantastic 2023!
As we move in to 2024 we are excited to share what we've seen and learned at this year's design shows. Last month we attended Las Vegas Market where we saw the latest and greatest in furnishings and color. Let us know what you think of these new furnishings and decor direct from Market.
Winter just got a lot more fun
It’s design show season!
Thank you to our wonderful clients for a fantastic 2023!
As we move in to 2024 we are excited to share what we've seen and learned at this year's design shows. Last month we attended Las Vegas Market where we saw the latest and greatest in furnishings and color. Let us know what you think of these new furnishings and decor direct from Market.
Stayed tuned for next month's newsletter where we will share fresh to the market fixtures and appliances from KBIS (follow our Instagram for our real-time finds).
Design Trends
If you've followed me since Milan it's still about mixing textures, interesting materials, and natural elements. It’s still curvy, baby! Fluted details, rounded corners and everything wavy continues to be seen in new homes furnishings for a couple of seasons. Think wall details, round tables, and woven materials; keep your eye out for round pillows. If you are looking for reference, Michael Taylor did it best for his California cool look in the 1970’s + 80’s. His design work continues to influence trends and inspire designers decades later.
Color Trends
Jewel tones, muted or bright, they’re here again. If you think things are looking like the 80’s, you’re right. There’s a strong Art Deco influence from the 1930's flowing through the design world. We are seeing styles and trends update every couple years now when it used to take a decade for styles to run the course. We didn’t get our roaring 20’s!
Safety in Numbers
With the new year and holiday decorations put away (hopefully but no judgment), it is the perfect time to address how we all can make sure our bathrooms and kitchens are as safe as they are beautiful.
Here are 5 design elements you can add to your home that not only check off the safety box, but can be visually appealing and, dare I say, elegant.
Grab bars
Installing these in the shower can provide stability and support for those who may have difficulty standing for long periods of time or getting in and out of the shower. I know, you’re thinking of a hospital grab but that’s not what these look like. There are a variety of styles and finishes to complement your bathroom design that are “hidden” in most of our remodels.
Curbless showers
These are inherently a safety feature designed for aesthetics. By eliminating the raised edge of a traditional shower, there is less risk of someone tripping and falling when entering or exiting. Curbless shower pans can be beautifully achieved with the proper floor tile and grout. Material selections matter!
Nightlights
Another simple yet effective safety feature for households with children or elderly individuals who may need to use the bathroom during the night. Think bigger than your typical plug-in nightlight (which can be useful). Hidden lights under a vanity bring a sleek look to nighttime lighting without taking up space in your outlets. Outlets are also available with built-in sensor lights for an easy hallway update. Leviton and Snap Power both have great, easy-to-install options.
Induction ranges
These convenient additions to the kitchen are becoming increasingly popular due to their safety features. Unlike traditional stovetops, induction ranges have no open flame, reducing the risk of burns or fires. They also have built-in sensors depending on the model that turns off the heat when a pot or pan is removed, providing an added layer of safety.
Pot fillers
Adding these can be a game-changer for those with mobility issues, or really anyone that loves pasta! These faucets extend over the stove to easily pots and pans can be filled without having to carry across from the sink. This feature does need some planning as it requires a water line in the wall, so be sure to plan and consider if anyone in your household for those with arthritis or difficulty lifting heavy objects.
Safety in the home is crucial and is easy to plan for and incorporate. We hope these five precautionary principles will help you make your rooms a safer and more convenient place for everyone in your household. Let's make this year a time for prioritizing our well-being and health.
Volume 31: December
As 2023 comes to a close, we are filled with gratitude for the amazing clients and tradespeople we have had the pleasure of working with over the last 12 months. This year's projects featured a wide range of design styles - all in a different vintage era - that were both challenging and rewarding. From Everett to Bellevue to West Seattle, we are proud of the designs updating our client's homes.
Winding down
It's been a great year!
As 2023 comes to a close, we are filled with gratitude for the amazing clients and tradespeople we have had the pleasure of working with over the last 12 months. This year's projects featured a wide range of design styles - all in a different vintage era - that were both challenging and rewarding. From Everett to Bellevue to West Seattle, we are proud of the designs updating our client's homes.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of our job is seeing a project go from just a dream and a moodboard to a fully realized and stunning space. This year, we embarked on some exciting new remodels.
We are constantly pushing ourselves to incorporate new styles and ideas into our designs as often as we can. This year we were motivated by attending KBIS, Milan Design Week, and Cosentino’s newest product launch to soak up all the inspiration.
Our wonderful business manager, Roxann, has continued to excel at keeping all our ducks in a row and making things go smoothly behind the scenes. This year also brought us our newest team member, Jenny, she is the Junior Interior Designer here at Kirk Riley Design. It has been fun to have another California transplant who speaks the same design language (we both went to FIDM!) and loves all things color. Here is a photo of us at the NKBA Holiday party, 76 floors above the city of Seattle at Columbia Tower.
As we look towards the future, we are excited to continue our journey and take on new design challenges. Above all, we are grateful for the opportunities and experiences of the past year, and we look forward to building on these foundations and creating more in the years to come.
From all of us at Kirk Riley Design, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thank you for your continued support and being a part of our journey. Here's to making 2024 even better!
Volume 30: November
The idea of gathering around the table with friends and family for the Thanksgiving holiday is a tradition that has been around for centuries. Whether it’s a formal, sit-down dinner or a casual buffet, it’s a time to appreciate each other’s company and to give thanks for all that we have. One thing that ties it all together is the table, or in the case of our Thanksgiving, tables. Kids' table, anyone?
Thanksgiving Wishes
A Table of Thankfulness
Food, Family, Friends, and Furnishings
The idea of gathering around the table with friends and family for the Thanksgiving holiday is a tradition that has been around for centuries. Whether it’s a formal, sit-down dinner or a casual buffet, it’s a time to appreciate each other’s company and to give thanks for all that we have. One thing that ties it all together is the table, or in the case of our Thanksgiving, tables. Kids' table, anyone?
A table is an essential piece of furniture in any dining room. It’s not just a place to eat; it’s also a place to gather, to converse, and to create memories. That’s why it’s important to choose the right table when decorating your dining room.
With so many styles to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow it down. We have enjoyed sourcing quite a few at Kirk Riley Design over the years. You could go for a classic, traditional look with leaves in a mahogany or cherry wood table. For a lighter and more modern style look for a glass or metal table which also works well in a smaller space. A mix of brushed brass and a warm, live-edge wood top is an interesting combination! This season we are loving this one from Anthropologie: Nemus Dining Table | AnthroLiving (anthropologie.com) The wishbone legs have our hearts fluttering!
Pro tip: Keep in mind the size and shape of the table you will need for your space. Aside from the table, the other elements of the dining room should be considered as well. Chairs, for example, are best when both comfortable and stylish. If you prefer a rustic alternative, opt for benches in a matching wood to accompany your dining table. Needing to maximize space? An upholstered banquette with a pedestal table make the perfect combo! To add a touch of warmth and texture to the room, add rugs and curtains as well.
No matter what style of table you choose, it’s important to pay attention to the details. On Thanksgiving day especially, the dining table is the visual centerpiece of the holiday and small touches can go a long way. Just this weekend I was setting the table for one of my family’s favorite dishes (Brussel sprouts!) with my antique brass candle holders, rust-color embroidered Anthropologie tablecloth, mother-of-pearl handled flatware from my mom and yes–the plates are from Goodwill. We’ve found that just a few candles, seasonal flowers, and other personal decor can really help to create a beautiful, inviting atmosphere that will make your Thanksgiving dinner that much more special!
In the theme of thankfulness, we at Kirk Riley Design wanted to share with you a list of some of the things we are most thankful for this holiday season:
Family near, far, and those departed but remembered always.
Cherished friends, new & old who make life that much sweeter.
And…YOU! We can’t thank our dear clients enough for trusting us with designing their homes! Home is a special and personal space that we are grateful to be a part of.
Traveling. When relatives live in another state or country, we are grateful for the ability to cross oceans or mountains to see each other.
On a personal note, I’m grateful for my health in 2023 as last year was a bit difficult navigating health issues as well as COVID. It’s been almost a year exactly of working on my healing journey and I’m so appreciative of our resources in Seattle.
Not that I’m rushing through Thanksgiving but it is time to talk Christmas… O’Christmas Tree that is! You may have seen the fun I've shared on social media over the years as I’ve been a supporter of Providence O’Christmas Trees ever since I learned about the program in 2010. Here’s your opportunity to make a memory and take the family to the Westin THIS Monday from 4 – 7 to kick off your holiday festivities.
Wishing you a healthy and abundant Thanksgiving!
Volume 29: October
When it comes to interiors, there is nothing more inviting than a beautiful fireplace. Fireplaces bring a cozy and appealing feeling to any room, making it the perfect place to gather with family or friends. Not only do they add warmth and character to your home, but they can also be a great way to tie together the look and feel of a space. Whether you have a traditional wood-burning fireplace, an electric fireplace, or a gas-burning fireplace, they make a beautiful centerpiece to a home.
All Things Cozy
Fireplaces, candles, and blankets...oh my!
When it comes to interiors, there is nothing more inviting than a beautiful fireplace. Fireplaces bring a cozy and appealing feeling to any room, making it the perfect place to gather with family or friends. Not only do they add warmth and character to your home, but they can also be a great way to tie together the look and feel of a space. Whether you have a traditional wood-burning fireplace, an electric fireplace, or a gas-burning fireplace, they make a beautiful centerpiece to a home.
In decorating around a fireplace, the mantel is an opportunity to show off your personal style. Fresh or dried flowers, leaning artwork, and other decorative elements can all be used to create a beautiful and inviting atmosphere. If space allows, you can also add some comfortable seating around it to make it easier to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of the fire. Sometimes, you have the fireplace but need the style. Take this river rock fireplace for example, it used to be a 1980s gilt mirror and now reflects a much more organic and natural mood. Another way to make a statement is by choosing a pop of colorful tile to brighten the space, as seen in this photo. Kirk Riley Design is “where a colorful life happens” and we love it when our clients embrace that wholeheartedly!
If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to decorate with light and cozy vibes this season, fragrant candles and wool blankets are an excellent option. We have used them in bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, entryways…the possibilities are plenty! Candles foster a moody atmosphere, and the variety of fall-themed fragrances can fill your home with a pleasant aroma. If you are caution-minded, battery-powered candles and scented oil diffusers are a viable substitute for flame-burning wicks. Throw blankets add a comfy feeling and can be used to snuggle up in your favorite chair or settee. Hint: Neutrals, plaids, and tartans have been ever so popular this season.
No matter how you choose to create warmth in your home, we are wishing you “all things cozy” as we head into the winter months!
Check out more of our cozy designs on Houzz and our website!
Give us a call if you're considering adding a fireplace to your world, or some candles. Either way, we'd love to hear from you.
Volume 28: September
Last week we were fortunate to have fantastic designer events in Seattle. First up was a "Tilepalooza" at a local showroom, United Tile. The next was a day of learning about what's new for home appliances at Albert Lee Appliance. Both of these showrooms represent lines manufactured all over the world and they were able to bring in the best from their manufacturers. We got the freshest information from the people in the know.
Fresh for Fall
What we saw last week
Last week we were fortunate to have fantastic designer events in Seattle. First up was a "Tilepalooza" at a local showroom, United Tile. The next was a day of learning about what's new for home appliances at Albert Lee Appliance. Both of these showrooms represent lines manufactured all over the world and they were able to bring in the best from their manufacturers. We got the freshest information from the people in the know.
One of my favorites was speaking with one of the owners of Sonoma Tile, a woman-owned business. They manufacture a lot of their product line in the United States, mostly in California. I especially love their tiles that feature recycled material! Sustainability and eco-awareness are not just buzzwords in the home improvement market. Big companies are spending big dollars to improve their packaging, distribution, and products to minimize their impact on local environments.
Inax is another line that we've used for their gorgeous Japanese glazes. Interesting colors and shapes combined for a truly interesting tile that you just want to reach out and touch. Here we used an inax tile on the kitchen backsplash in a recent remodel.
Appliance manufacturers continue to add customizations, allowing us to create personalized appliances. What does that mean? You want a brass-paneled refrigerator? Okay! Oversized luxurious yet completely durable leather handles? Check! Washing machines with not only a smaller footprint in your home but also environmentally friendly? Done!
What's the word on the street for your cooking range? Induction. Our clients have been selecting induction for years, as they combine fantastic ease of use with numerous safety features. Be prepared to continue to see more of this in the market.
Several prototypes were featured, but sorry, we signed an NDA. Even more new products and cutting-edge ideas will be showcased in February at KBIS in Las Vegas. Be sure to follow along on Instagram as you never know what I'll be sharing. I'm thrilled to live in a vibrant city, fortunate to have such gracious clients, and grateful to work with a team of vendors and tradespeople. We work together to make all of our crazy design ideas come to life! As always, if you're not sure how to start your next design project or maybe you do and you're ready to go, give me a call or send me an email.
Happy fall y'all!