Do’s and Don’ts for a Home Renovation

As an experienced interior designer, I understand that any home renovation can be a significant undertaking. There’s a multitude of factors to consider, from budget and timeline to design and execution. Once you begin, it can be easy to find yourself needing to change course. That’s why it’s crucial to do your research and plan meticulously before starting any home renovations. Let me share some essential do’s and don’ts to help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your home improvement project is a success. Whether you’re planning a small kitchen update or a complete home makeover, read on for some expert advice. Do’s First, do carry out your own research. This is perhaps the most important step in planning any home renovation. Spend time browsing through home design magazines and websites, and visit local model homes or open houses. This will help you get a clear idea of what you like and dislike, enabling you to narrow down your options effectively. Next, do set a budget. Once you have a good idea of what you want to achieve, it’s essential to think about the financial aspect. Establish a realistic budget for your project, and be sure to include a cushion for unexpected costs. This preparation will help you stay on track and avoid any unpleasant surprises. Do hire a professional. Unless you’re an experienced home design contractor, it’s always best to enlist the help of a professional for major renovations. A skilled contractor can help you stay on budget and on schedule, and they’ll have the expertise to manage any unforeseen challenges that arise. Don’ts On the flip side, don’t bite off more than you can chew. It’s easy to get carried away with grand plans, but before you start tearing down walls or gutting your kitchen, realistically assess what you can handle. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to start small and gradually take on bigger projects. Don’t overlook the details. As the saying goes, the devil is in the details. When planning any home renovation, be sure to consider all the little things that will make a big difference in the end. Elements such as paint colors, hardware, and lighting can all have a major impact on the final result. Finally, don’t forget to factor in your comfort level. If you’re uncomfortable with making big changes, start small and work your way up. If you’re really unsure where to start, consider hiring a professional designer to help you get the ball rolling. Did you know that 35% of remodeling jobs involve whole home renovations? That’s a significant number of homeowners making substantial changes to their homes. However, as we’ve seen, not all home renovations are created equal. By following the do’s and don’ts I’ve outlined, you can avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your home improvement project. If you’re ready to embark on your next renovation, call the team at Janet Brooks Design today. We’d be happy to help you plan and execute your dream home renovation.
How to Choose the Best Interior Design For You!

How to Choose the Best Interior Design For You! As an experienced interior designer, I understand that selecting the right interior designer can be a pivotal decision in your life. Whether you are a homeowner, condo owner, building a new space, or renovating an existing one, finding a designer that resonates with your style is crucial. A qualified interior design firm considers budget, space, color, and style to create an environment that delights your senses. Whether you prefer a clean and open look, a tranquil atmosphere, or a richly decorated space, an educated and experienced designer can make it all possible. If you’re thinking of hiring an interior designer but aren’t sure what to look for, here are some considerations to help you make the right decision. When you begin your search for the right interior designer, a referral from friends or family or a quick internet search can be a great starting point. Look for designs that speak to your style preferences and start building a list of potential designers. Visiting design showcases in your neighborhood can also be helpful. If you see a style you love, find out who designed it and note their name. Be sure to check their reviews as well. As you narrow down your options, it’s important to ensure that your chosen designer is properly certified. Many states have specific requirements for the interior design industry, including substantial experience and an interior design degree. Professional certification guarantees they have met all the necessary education and experience criteria. Additionally, if your project involves construction and subcontractors, a certified designer will be knowledgeable about building codes and project management, which is a significant advantage. Establishing a workable budget is another crucial step, especially depending on the size and complexity of your project. Discuss your budget with an interior designer upfront. A qualified design team can help you set a realistic budget that aligns with your goals. This conversation will also help manage expectations and ensure that there are no surprises down the line. While considering your budget, it’s equally important to reflect on your personal style. Although most interior designers can adapt to their client’s style, it’s best to select a designer whose work you admire and can envision yourself living in. Style compatibility will make the design process smoother and more enjoyable. A designer familiar with various items and materials they’ve tested will also have valuable insights. According to The Robin Report, after a house and a car, furniture is generally the third most costly item a person will ever purchase. Therefore, hiring a designer who knows the current design trends and top furniture suppliers can make the project seamless and cost-effective. By using these quick tips, selecting an interior designer for your next project can be an enjoyable experience that stays within budget and on time. Ensure success by handpicking a designer who matches your design sensibility. If you have any questions or need further guidance, call the design team at Janet Brooks Design today. We’re here to help you create a space you’ll love.
Southwest Style Feature Page 2022

I am thrilled to share that Janet Brooks Design has been featured on the Southwest Style Editorial Feature Page in the 2022 Annual Edition. This feature highlights our commitment to innovative design and our passion for creating spaces that truly resonate with our clients. As the founder of Janet Brooks Design, I bring over 30 years of experience in transforming homes into stunning, personalized sanctuaries. Our team specializes in luxury residential interiors, offering a seamless blend of elegance, comfort, and functionality. Follow the link below to read our article and learn more about our design philosophy and latest projects. Click Here to view
Interior Design Trends You Won’t Want to Miss

As a seasoned interior designer with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the vast realm of home design, I am genuinely excited to divulge the captivating interior design trends that are defining the landscape of 2022. This year promises a delightful array of innovative concepts, textures, and color palettes that are set to redefine and elevate the aesthetics of residential spaces. With my expertise and keen eye for emerging trends, I am eager to explore the captivating developments shaping the design landscape this year. Embracing the Elegance of Arches: Arched doors, reminiscent of Roman architecture, are making a stylish comeback, softening the sharp lines that have dominated interiors for years. Their smooth curves infuse spaces with a sense of relaxation, offering a timeless yet contemporary aesthetic. Whether integrated as a pattern or utilized in the form of windows and doors during renovations, arches add a touch of sophistication to any design scheme. Vibrant Concrete Accents: In modern bathroom designs, concrete emerges as a versatile canvas for injecting personality while preserving a serene, spa-like ambiance. With an array of vibrant colors, textures, and depths, colored concrete lends itself beautifully to interior spaces, offering a unique blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. Its resurgence as a favored material extends beyond bathrooms, gracing exteriors, kitchens, and flooring with its distinct character. Revived Technicolor Patterns: The classic checkered pattern undergoes a vibrant transformation, embracing brighter tones and a glossy finish to exude a celebratory charm. This timeless design, now infused with contemporary flair, adds visual interest and whimsy to interiors, particularly in narrow hallways where it can serve as a playful focal point. From flooring to bathtub surrounds, incorporating checkered patterns injects energy and character into any space. Sleek Cordless Table Lamps: Advancements in preferences and technology have revolutionized portable lighting solutions, giving rise to sleek and stylish cordless table lamps. These innovative designs, offered by renowned brands, redefine lighting trends for 2022, seamlessly blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. Whether adorning kitchen shelves, enhancing bathroom ambiance, or illuminating outdoor patio areas, cordless table lamps elevate both indoor and outdoor living spaces. As the design landscape awakens from the subdued tones of 2020 and 2021, the path forward for 2022 is marked by ingenuity and creativity. Whether you’re seeking to refresh your interior or exterior living spaces, my team and I are here to bring your design visions to life. Contact us today to embark on your design journey and transform your home into a haven of style and sophistication.
Relaxing Bedroom Color Palettes for 2022

Relaxing Bedroom Color Palettes As an expert interior designer with years of experience in crafting beautiful living spaces, I deeply understand the significance of choosing the right colors for your master bedroom. Your bedroom is more than just a place to sleep; it’s a sanctuary where you can unwind, recharge, and escape from the stresses of daily life. That’s why it’s crucial to select colors that not only reflect your personal style but also promote tranquility and relaxation. In my extensive career working with homeowners, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of color in interior design. The hues you choose can significantly impact the mood and ambiance of your space, influencing everything from your sleep quality to your overall well-being. That’s why I’m passionate about helping my clients navigate the myriad of color options available to create a master bedroom that truly embodies their vision of comfort and serenity. In 2022, there are several popular color choices that can help you achieve the ideal ambiance for a restful night’s sleep. Let’s explore some of the best colors for your master bedroom and how they can enhance your space. When it comes to promoting relaxation and tranquility, blue and gray are often hailed as the top contenders. These cool-toned hues have a calming effect on the mind, making it easier to unwind and drift off to sleep. Opting for medium or lighter shades of blue and gray can evoke a sense of serenity, ideal for creating a soothing sleep environment. Many paint companies offer a variety of beautiful blue and gray shades, allowing you to find the perfect tone to suit your preferences. Neutral colors like white are timeless choices for master bedrooms, providing a versatile backdrop that complements various decor styles. With over fifty different shades of white to choose from, you can find the perfect hue to create a serene and inviting atmosphere in your bedroom. Neutral tones also help balance brighter accessories or furniture, allowing them to stand out without overwhelming the space. Incorporating shades of green and brown into your master bedroom can evoke a sense of harmony and connection with nature. Green, being an earthy color, brings a sense of calmness and rejuvenation to your space. Whether you opt for light, medium, or darker shades, green can infuse your bedroom with a tranquil ambiance. Similarly, brown hues exude warmth and serenity, offering a comforting backdrop for relaxation. Lighter shades of brown, such as cream or beige, create a soft and inviting atmosphere that promotes restful sleep. Whether you prefer the calming allure of blue and gray or the earthy warmth of green and brown, selecting the right colors for your master bedroom is essential for creating a peaceful sanctuary. As an interior designer, I can guide you through the process of choosing the perfect color palette and creating a cohesive design that reflects your unique style and preferences. Contact our office today to discover more about the latest color trends and design ideas for your master bedroom.
Is Southwestern Interior Design Style Still In?

Southwestern Interior Design Style As someone who has spent years navigating the intricacies of interior design, I’ve developed a profound understanding of the nuanced relationship between tradition and innovation within the realm of home decor. Through my extensive work in the field, I’ve witnessed firsthand the cyclical nature of design trends, where what’s old often becomes new again, and where innovation breathes life into traditional concepts. Drawing from my expertise, I’ve honed a deep understanding of how to blend contemporary flair with classic elegance, creating spaces that not only reflect current tastes but also stand the test of time. I’ve witnessed the ebb and flow of design trends, and the southwestern style has certainly made its mark on home decor in recent years. Originating from the American southwest, this style boasts earthy tones, animal prints, and the charm of succulents. But amidst its popularity, the debate lingers: has southwestern style reached its pinnacle, or does it still hold relevance in contemporary design? Critics of southwestern-style decor often cite its potential for kitschiness, invoking images of stereotypical cowboys and overuse of cowhide. Moreover, concerns arise about cultural appropriation when incorporating patterns inspired by Navajo blankets or other indigenous designs. Additionally, the geographical context is crucial; adopting a southwestern color palette in a region far removed from the southwest may appear disjointed and out of place. However, proponents of southwestern style argue for its versatility and enduring appeal. Rather than replicating cultural motifs, a modern take on this aesthetic emphasizes earthy tones and subtle nods to the southwest through prints or artwork. By adhering to a rustic, shabby-chic vibe, homeowners can infuse their space with southwestern sensibilities without overwhelming the decor. Ultimately, the question isn’t whether southwestern style is in or out—it’s about how it’s executed. With thoughtful curation and a balanced approach, southwestern elements can add character and warmth to any home, transcending passing trends to become timeless features of interior design.