Monochromatic Bedroom

Creating Depth and Comfort: Shop Our Monochromatic Bedroom Design Board

When it comes to bedroom design, many homeowners are drawn to the calming simplicity of a monochromatic color palette. But creating a bedroom that feels both cozy and visually interesting with a single color scheme requires a bit of extra care. How do you ensure your space is sophisticated and inviting, rather than flat and one-dimensional? The secret is texture.

Our Monochromatic Bedroom Design Board has been carefully curated to show you how to elevate a neutral palette by playing with textures in furniture, textiles, and accessories. With a focus on luxurious materials and unique finishes, this board will help you create a serene yet layered space where texture takes center stage.

Why Texture Is Key in a Monochromatic Space

When working with a single color or shades within the same color family, texture becomes essential. It adds depth and interest to the room without introducing new colors, allowing the monochromatic palette to shine while keeping the space dynamic. The interplay of different materials, finishes, and textiles creates a feeling of warmth and dimension, making the room feel complete.

In our Monochromatic Bedroom Design Board, we’ve chosen pieces that incorporate a variety of textures—from smooth, polished finishes to plush fabrics—to create a balanced and inviting environment.

Key Pieces in Our Monochromatic Bedroom Design Board

1. Upholstered Bed Frame: The star of this design board is a luxuriously upholstered bed. The rich, plush fabric adds a touch of sophistication and softness, making your bed a cozy focal point in the room. The monochromatic hue keeps it simple, but the texture adds that extra touch of comfort and elegance.
2. Linen Bedding Set: A monochromatic color scheme works beautifully with layered bedding in varying textures. In this design, we’ve included breathable, lightweight linen duvet paired with an Alpaca throw blanket.
3. Textured Area Rug: At the foot of the bed, a soft, textured area rug grounds the space and provides a tactile element that is both inviting and comfortable underfoot. This piece adds warmth and softness to the room, and its subtle texture stands out within the neutral palette.
4. Brushed Metal & Textured Wood Nightstands: For a sleek, modern contrast, we’ve included 2D wood with brushed metal nightstands. The smooth, reflective surface provides an elegant contrast to the softness of the fabrics in the room, adding a sophisticated touch to the overall design.
5. Velvet Throw Pillows: Throw pillows are an easy and effective way to introduce a pop of color to a monochromatic room. This design board features velvet pillows in shades that match the subtle color in the wall decor. These can easily be swapped out for colors that match the bedding for a even more of a monochromatic look.
6. Textured Ceramic Table Lamps: The bedside lamps in this design have a matte, textured ceramic finish that adds an earthy, organic feel to the room. The soft lighting enhances the cozy atmosphere while the textured lamp bases offer a beautiful contrast to the smooth finishes elsewhere in the space.
7. Framed Wall Art with Embossed Details: A monochromatic room doesn’t mean that your walls need to be bare. We’ve included wall art with subtle color without overpowering the simplicity of the design. The art ties in seamlessly with the color palette while offering another layer of visual interest.

How to Make a Monochromatic Bedroom Work

To successfully design a monochromatic bedroom, focus on layering different textures rather than relying on multiple colors to add interest. Here are a few tips on how to make it work:

1. Mix Fabrics: Use fabrics with varying textures—like pairing linen bedding with a velvet headboard or adding a chunky knit throw over a smooth duvet. The difference in texture will help break up the monotony while maintaining a cohesive look.
2. Incorporate Different Finishes: Don’t be afraid to add some shine or contrast. In this design board, we’ve used brushed metal nightstands and textured ceramic lamps, which add both visual and tactile contrast to the room.
3. Play with Patterns: Even in a monochromatic space, patterns can be introduced through texture. Quilted fabrics, ribbed accessories, or subtle geometric patterns in rugs or pillows can provide the interest you need to make the room feel dynamic.
4. Don’t Forget the Accessories: Small accessories, like vases with ribbed or matte finishes, mirrors with textured frames, and woven baskets can add a variety of textures without taking up much space.

Why Our Monochromatic Bedroom Design Board Is Perfect for You

This Monochromatic Bedroom Design Board is the ideal solution for anyone who wants to create a bedroom that feels serene yet sophisticated. The carefully selected pieces are designed to work together, offering texture and depth without straying from a unified color palette. With the added bonus of a shoppable format, transforming your space into a peaceful, textured retreat has never been easier.

• Effortless Elegance: The curated selection of furniture, textiles, and accessories adds instant luxury to your bedroom without the stress of coordinating pieces yourself.
• Layered Textures: From soft velvet and linen to smooth metal and textured ceramics, this design board shows you how to layer textures for a room that feels both calming and interesting.
• Limited Availability: All items are available for a limited time, so don’t miss your chance to shop these exclusive pieces before they’re gone!

Ready to Shop the Monochromatic Look?

Elevate your bedroom with our Monochromatic Bedroom Design Board today. With luxurious textures and timeless pieces, this collection will help you create a serene, stylish sanctuary. Shop the entire look or pick your favorite pieces before they’re gone!

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Explore our Monochromatic Bedroom Design Board now and discover the power of texture in design. Shop the collection before it’s too late!

Outdoor Space- Modern

Elevate Your Outdoor Living: Shop Our Curated Modern Outdoor Space Design Board

Transform your backyard into a luxurious retreat with our latest Modern Outdoor Space Design Board. Whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying family time, or simply relaxing under the stars, this curated collection of outdoor furniture and décor brings comfort, style, and functionality to your outdoor living area. With a focus on clean lines, durable materials, and a sleek modern aesthetic, these pieces will turn your outdoor space into an extension of your home. But hurry—these items are only available for a limited time, so shop now before they’re gone!

A Modern Outdoor Escape: What’s Included

Our Modern Outdoor Space Design Board features a carefully selected assortment of furniture and accessories that reflect the best in outdoor living. Think of this as your blueprint for creating a luxurious yet comfortable space where you can unwind or entertain in style.

Key Pieces in the Modern Outdoor Design Board:

1. Large Modular Outdoor Sofa: This weather-resistant sectional sofa offers flexibility and comfort. The modular design allows you to customize your layout to fit any space, whether you’re arranging it around a fire pit or setting it up for a cozy conversation area.
2. Contemporary Fire Pit Table: This sleek, rectangular fire pit brings warmth and ambiance to any outdoor gathering. Its modern design features a concrete top and a built-in propane tank holder, ensuring both beauty and function for those cool evenings outdoors.
3. Durable Outdoor Dining Set: Dine al fresco in style with a modern outdoor dining set featuring a sturdy, weather-resistant table and comfortable chairs. Perfect for hosting family dinners, weekend brunches, or evening cocktails with friends.
4. Sleek Lounge Chairs: Kick back and relax on these minimalistic yet chic lounge chairs. With comfortable backs and durable fabric, they are ideal for soaking up the sun in your private outdoor sanctuary.
5. Outdoor Area Rug: Tie the whole space together with a large outdoor area rug that’s designed to handle the elements. This rug adds texture and a soft touch underfoot while helping to define different sections of your outdoor living area.

Why Choose Our Curated Modern Outdoor Design Board?

1. Effortless Outdoor Styling With our Modern Outdoor Space Design Board, you no longer need to spend hours searching for pieces that work well together. Every piece has been handpicked by professional designers to ensure a seamless, cohesive look. From seating to décor, you can easily create an outdoor oasis that is both stylish and functional.
2. Designed for Durability Outdoor furniture and décor need to stand up to the elements, and this board features items made from high-quality, weather-resistant materials that are built to last. Enjoy your outdoor living space season after season without worrying about wear and tear.
3. Perfect for Entertaining or Relaxing Whether you’re hosting summer barbecues, having a quiet night around the fire pit, or sipping coffee at dawn, this modern outdoor setup adapts to your needs. With enough seating for guests and cozy nooks for you to relax, this design board helps create an outdoor space that fits your lifestyle.
4. Shop with Ease Our curated design boards take the guesswork out of designing your outdoor space. Each item is available for purchase directly from our partnering retailers. Whether you want to recreate the full look or pick a few favorite pieces, it’s as easy as a few clicks.
5. Limited-Time Availability Like all of our curated design boards, the items featured in the Modern Outdoor Space Design Board are only available for a limited time. Once they’re gone, they may not be restocked! This ensures your space remains as unique as it is stylish, so don’t miss out.

How to Shop the Modern Outdoor Design Board

1. Browse the Full Look – Head to our Shoppable Design Boards section and explore the Modern Outdoor Space collection.
2. Shop Each Item – Click on the individual pieces to learn more and purchase. You can shop the entire board for a cohesive look or choose the pieces that best suit your outdoor space.
3. Limited Availability – Act fast! These products are only available for a short time, and once they sell out, they won’t be restocked. Secure your favorite pieces before they’re gone for good.

Transform Your Outdoor Space Today

Ready to upgrade your outdoor living? Our Modern Outdoor Space Design Board has everything you need to create a stylish, functional, and welcoming environment. From lounging by the fire pit to dining under the stars, this collection will help you make the most of your outdoor space. Don’t wait—shop now and bring this curated look to your home before it’s too late!

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Visit our Modern Outdoor Space Design Board page now and shop your favorite pieces before they’re sold out! Transform your outdoor area into the sleek, stylish retreat you’ve always wanted.

Transitional Living Room

Transform Your Space with Our Shoppable Transitional Living Room Design Board

If you’ve been dreaming of a living room that blends timeless elegance with modern comfort, then our Shoppable Transitional Living Room Design Board is just for you! We’ve curated this collection to offer the perfect balance between classic and contemporary styles—creating a versatile, sophisticated space that feels both fresh and welcoming.

What is Transitional Design?

Transitional design is a seamless blend of traditional and contemporary elements. It takes the best of both worlds—classic furniture lines with modern updates, neutral color palettes with pops of texture, and clean silhouettes paired with warm, inviting accents. The result? A timeless space that feels cozy, but never dated, and chic, but never cold.

If you’re looking to update your living room with a style that transcends fleeting trends while still feeling current and inviting, transitional design is the answer. And with our Shoppable Design Board, we’ve done all the hard work for you, curating pieces that blend these elements beautifully.

Introducing the Shoppable Transitional Living Room Design Board

Our Transitional Living Room Design Board is now available with limited-time products that are perfect for refreshing your space. Each piece has been hand-selected by professional interior designers to ensure that your living room looks pulled together and cohesive. Here’s a sneak peek of what’s included:

Key Pieces in Our Transitional Living Room:

1. Neutral Upholstered Sofa: The centerpiece of the room, this neutral-toned sofa features a blend of modern, clean lines. It’s as comfortable as it is stylish and serves as the perfect anchor for your living room.
2. Wood and Metal Coffee Table: This rectangular coffee table features a wood top with black metal detail surrounding the sides—a beautiful mix of rustic and industrial, bridging the gap between traditional and modern.
3. Patterned Area Rug: A soft, textured rug with a subtle, distressed pattern that complements the space while adding warmth and visual interest. Its neutral tones ensure it pairs well with both the modern and classic elements in the room.
4. Linen Shade Chandelier: For lighting, we’ve included a chandelier in black iron with white linen shades in a contemporary silhouette. The lamp’s clean design fits well within a transitional space, offering both functionality and an extra touch of sophistication.
5. Decorative Throw Pillows: We’ve added layers of coziness with neutral throw pillows. Each one has a touch of texture or subtle pattern to elevate the design without overpowering the space.
6. Timeless Wall Art: Finish the look with a collection of curated wall art that complements the room’s neutral palette. Simple, abstract designs or classic landscapes that provide depth and character without distracting from the rest of the décor.

Why Our Transitional Design Board is Perfect for You

1. Effortless Style for Your Home The transitional design style is all about balance. With its neutral color palette and harmonious mix of classic and contemporary pieces, this design board allows you to create a sophisticated and inviting living room that feels like home. Whether you’re updating your current space or decorating a new one, this board makes it easy to get that designer look without the guesswork.
2. Easy Shopping Experience Shopping for a cohesive look has never been easier. Every item on our Transitional Living Room Design Board is shoppable. No need to search through endless catalogs or worry about how different pieces will work together. With just a few clicks, you can purchase the exact items we’ve curated, so you can recreate the look in your own home.
3. Limited-Time Offer Like all our design boards, the products featured are available for a limited time only. Don’t miss the chance to bring this transitional living room concept into your home while you can. Each piece is carefully chosen for both its timeless appeal and trend-forward design, ensuring your space will look stylish for years to come.
4. A Flexible Style for Any Space One of the reasons transitional design is so popular is because it works in virtually any home. Whether your house leans traditional, contemporary, or somewhere in between, transitional design complements a variety of architectural styles. The neutral palette and balanced mix of furniture and decor make it easy to integrate these pieces into your existing setup or create an entirely new look.

Transform Your Space Today

Ready to refresh your living room? Our Transitional Living Room Design Board offers everything you need to create a stylish, welcoming space. With its timeless appeal and modern functionality, it’s the perfect solution for anyone looking to elevate their home décor without the stress of piecing it together on their own.

Shop the Look today and transform your living room into a space you’ll love to spend time in.

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Head to our Curated Design Board page now and start shopping! These items are only available for a limited time, so don’t wait to create the living room of your dreams!

Modern Family Room

Transform Your Space with Our Curated, Shoppable Design Boards

If you’ve ever felt stuck or overwhelmed with decorating your home, you’re not alone. Whether you’ve just purchased a home or you’re looking to refresh your space, creating a beautifully designed room can seem like a daunting task. But we’ve got the perfect solution for you—our Shoppable Design Boards, starting with our Modern Living Room board.

Why Our Shoppable Design Boards Are Perfect for You

We understand that not everyone has the time or resources to go through a full-scale interior design project. Sometimes, all you need is a little inspiration and a few key pieces to transform your space. That’s where our design boards come in. Our curated, shoppable design boards offer a collection of perfectly coordinated furniture and decor that make it easy for you to recreate a designer room in your home, without the stress of decision overload.

Key Benefits:

• Professionally Curated: Every item is hand-selected by a professional interior designer to ensure it’s both stylish and functional.
• Limited Availability: This adds a sense of exclusivity and urgency. Each board features items that are only available for a limited time, so once they’re gone, they’re gone! This makes your space feel truly unique.
• Easy Shopping: All items are shoppable directly from our website or partnering stores, meaning you can transform your space in just a few clicks.
• Budget-Friendly: Our boards offer a range of items at different price points, so you can choose what works for you, without breaking the bank.

What’s in Our Modern Living Room Design Board?

Our Modern Living Room design board is ideal for anyone seeking a chic, minimalistic space with a touch of warmth. Here’s a sneak peek at the pieces included:

1. Sleek Sectional Sofa – A comfortable, neutral-toned sectional that anchors the room and offers plenty of seating.
2. Statement Coffee Table – A unique, modern design featuring a chunky oak base and italian marble top, perfect for adding a luxe vibe.
3. Accent Chairs – Modern barrel swivel chairs with rich, olive velvet upholstery to add texture and color to your space.
4. Textured Area Rug – A soft, neutral rug with a subtle texture to tie the room together.
5. Minimalist Wall Art – Abstract art prints that bring in a pop of color while maintaining the room’s modern aesthetic.
6. Lighting Options – Sleek floor and ceiling lighting in matte black or brass finishes for ambient and task lighting.
7. Decorative Accessories – Think sculptural vases, ceramic bowls, and cozy throw blankets to add the finishing touches.

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Perfect for Quick Room Makeovers

If you’re someone who just needs a few ideas or products to freshen up your space, these boards are ideal. You don’t need to reimagine your whole home; sometimes all it takes are a few well-chosen pieces to make your living room feel brand new again.

Why Choose Us?

• No Guesswork: We’ve done the hard part for you. Every piece has been curated to complement the others, so you know they’ll look great together.
• Effortless Shopping: You can instantly shop the entire board or pick and choose items that fit your style and budget.
• Quick Turnaround with Transparency: Because the products are available for a limited time, there’s no need to worry about decision fatigue. You can have a refreshed space and see the availability and lead time

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Shop While You Can!

Remember, the products featured in each design board have limited availability. Once they’re sold out, they’re gone! Don’t miss out on the chance to bring this Modern Living Room design into your home.

Ready to transform your space? Check out the Modern Living Room Design Board today and start shopping! 🛒

Stay tuned for more design boards coming soon, each offering unique styles from Monochromatic bedrooms, Transitional Living Rooms and even Outdoor Spaces! We can’t wait to help you create a home that’s as stylish as it is functional.

Fall Home Updates: Transforming Your Space for the Season

As the leaves start to turn and the air gets a bit crisper, it’s the perfect time to update your home for Fall. Embrace the cozy charm of the season by incorporating some simple yet impactful changes into your living space. From warm color palettes to textured decor, here are some Fall home updates to help you create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.

1. Warm and Cozy Color Palette

2. Layered Textures

3. Seasonal Decor Accents

4. Cozy Lighting

5. Fall-Inspired Artwork

6. Seasonal Textiles

7. Functional Fall Accessories

8. Scented Candles

9. Outdoor Decor

By incorporating these Fall home updates, you can transform your space into a cozy retreat that welcomes the season with open arms. Whether you prefer subtle touches or a full-on Fall makeover, these ideas will help you create a home that’s perfect for savoring the beauty and comfort of Autumn.

5 Tips to Styling A Great Room

Are you looking to create a stunning great room that seamlessly blends functionality and style? As an Interior Decorator near you, I’m here to tell you that it’s all about having a design direction. In this post, we’ll explore how to create a design direction for your great room and provide styling tips to help bring your vision to life.

Creating Design Direction

Before you start styling your great room, you’ll need to establish a design direction. This will serve as the foundation for your entire project and guide your decision-making process. When creating a design direction, consider the following:

• Mood: What mood do you want to create in your great room? Do you want it to be cozy and inviting or sleek and modern?
• Color Palette: What colors do you want to incorporate into your space? Do you prefer neutral hues or bold pops of color?
• Style: What style best represents your personality and lifestyle? Are you drawn to traditional, transitional, or modern designs?

Once you have established your design direction, you can start selecting furniture, textiles, and accessories that align with your vision. As an Interior Decorator in Tampa FL, I recommend creating a mood board to help visualize your design direction and ensure that all elements work harmoniously together.

Styling Tips for a Great Room With Your Design Direction In Place!

It’s time to start styling your great room. Here are some tips to help bring your space to life:

• Create zones: Great rooms can serve multiple functions, such as a living area, dining area, and workspace. To define each zone, use furniture placement and area rugs to create visual boundaries.
• Layer textures: Add depth and visual interest to your space by layering different textures, such as a plush rug, velvet pillows, and a cozy throw.
• Mix and match: Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns, colors, and textures. When done correctly, it can add dimension and personality to your space.
• Add greenery: Plants not only add color and texture to a space but also have air-purifying benefits. Consider adding a variety of plants, from large floor plants to smaller succulents.
• Personalize with accessories: Accessorize your space with personal items such as family photos, books, and meaningful decor pieces. It’s these unique touches that truly make a house feel like a home.

Styling a great room can be a daunting task, but working with an Interior Decorator can make the process easier and more enjoyable. As an Interior Decorator, I offer a range of services to help bring your design vision to life. From creating a design direction to selecting furniture and accessories, I am here to guide you every step of the way.

In conclusion, creating a stunning great room is all about having a design direction and incorporating key styling tips. Whether you’re searching for an Interior Decorator in Tampa FL or searching for an Interior Decorator near you, I hope this post has provided valuable insights to help you create your dream space.

Tampa Interior Decorator, Cathy Di Leo wins Best of the Best for February 2021!

As a Tampa and Wesley Chapel interior decorator I was so honored to be named the one of the “Best of the Best Home Interior” decorators for the month of February 2021 by Home Staging Resources.

The HSR Best of the Best awards showcase the decorators and stagers that are among those certified by Home Staging Resource under the guidance of Audra Slinkey. Winners are hand-picked by four judges out of hundreds of photos every month!

The winning photo (featured above) has a really funny backstory you can read all about by clicking here. I’ve been so fortunate over the last year to have the opportunity to decorate and stage some amazing homes. Even with the pandemic, my clients have been amazing and business has been fantastic!

What an honor it is to be on this list and to have the opportunity to create beautiful homes!

E-Design?… What The Heck Is It?

When I tell my clients that I offer E-Design services, the first thing they ask is… “What is E-Design?”.  Think of this as the most convenient, collaborative way for you to redecorate your space!  Many people have heard it called Virtual Decorating or Online Interior Decorating.  E-Design is convenient, affordable, and faster than traditional design services because there is a true partnership and collaboration between the client and designer.  Most of the work is done virtually through email, video calls, text, pinterest and the Design Files program so the benefits to the client are flexibility, faster turn arounds and affordability.

How Does It Work?

The Questionnaire

A questionnaire is filled out online which covers everything from timeline, budget, color, style, who will use the space and why you’re wanting to decorate.  From there, I schedule a video call with you so that I can see your space and go more in depth about the goals for your project.

Your Homework

I give you directions to measure your space and take plenty of good photos and make note of any existing pieces you want to work into the new design.

Secret Pinterest Board

I create a secret Pinterest board that only you and I can see.  This is a GREAT resource for us to share inspirational ideas for your room, and to make sure we’re traveling down the right path to creating the perfect design.  The more information we share, the better your design will be!  (This is particularly important if you purchase my Basic Eye for E-Design package because you only receive one board with NO revisions).

Mood Board Creation

Based on the package purchased, you’ll receive a set number of mood boards.  A mood board is created in my Design Files program virtually and will be the core to turning inspiration and ideas into your room design. Boards are created based on answers in your questionnaire, your Pinterest saves and inspiration photos.  My signature Lay It Out For Me E-Design package is the best value and allows for 1 revision.  I like to make sure we are vibing with the color, pattern and general direction of the space before delivering your final board. Have fun with this and take the time to provide feedback! This is as much your design as it is mine so the more feedback the better!

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The Deliverables

I have several package options that will fit the needs of a variety of clients.  I also offer a-la-carte services such as shopping, lighting mood board, rug mood boards etc. If you have a room that is in need of a little extra help, just let me know and I can better customize your package to your specific needs

The Execution

All my packages include shopping lists and links to purchase product.  After receiving the final mood board, you’re responsible for purchasing the recommended items at your leisure and decorating the room once product is received.  I offer an optional Post-Design virtual call with my signature packages that allows you go call me for decorating advice if needed.  This call is for me to advise you on hanging artwork, styling your accessories or to address any remaining questions you have about finishing your space.

Is E-Design Right for Me?

Hire An E-Designer If…

• You can measure and photograph your space
• Pinterest is your friend and you’re able to use this as a tool to communicate your vision, inspiration, furniture and décor ideas.
• You want a design plan narrowed down within a few weeks
• You want to shop retail, can order products on your own and are able to handle any returns/exchange

Talk To Me About Traditional Design Services If…

• You need or want more of a personal touch
• Desire in-home consultations
• Need or want someone to take detailed room measurements and photos
• Would like to receive a discount on furniture purchases
• Would like for someone to handle purchasing product for you

Common E-Design Misconceptions

Even if you are just now hearing about virtual interior design it is already causing a stir in the design community and beyond.  I think it’s important to address some of the impressions that are currently out there and provide a bit more background about E-Designers in general.

If you’re new to E-Design, it doesn’t necessarily mean that E-Design is a new concept.  Online decorating sites have been around for a few years and are increasing in popularity; giving more credibility to E-Design as a decorating option.  With the recent COVID epidemic, virtual/ online decorating has exploded and gained even more popularity since it’s business model supports social distancing and online collaboration.

We Are Stealing Traditional Designers’ Work

E-design and Traditional Interior Decorating appeal to different types of clients.  E-Design clients are typically very savvy decorators that just need some professional pointers or the confidence in knowing their ideas will come together with a beautiful result.  Because online design boards are very fluid, results are immediate. Clients have full visibility to budget, sourcing, and design elements and when completed, the decision to purchase everything at once, or in stages based on their timeline.

E-Design Decorators Are Uneducated

My path to interior decorating has not been a straight line and it’s not something I keep secret.  I was an art major in college for 2 years studying design, painting, drawing and architecture prior to earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Major in Marketing. After college I was fortunate enough to follow my dream of being a retail buyer and working for some of the top fashion retailers in New York and San Francisco in their corporate buying offices.  My responsibilities ranged from product development, sourcing, buying, strategic planning, and merchandise planning, to store management.  From this experience I was able to create products and dictate fashion trends that translated nationwide. If any of you purchased polar fleece from Old Navy in the 90s as an “Item of the Week”… you’re welcome!

At this point you’re probably wondering how this is all related to E-Design… WELL… After 15 years in fashion I found myself in Tampa Florida, which is not exactly known as the fashion hub of the US.  I went to work in the corporate buying office for a large local furniture and décor company, that I realized much of my fashion industry experience translated to home décor.  I immediately started to get my education and certifications in Interior Decorating, Home staging, Interior Color Application and E-Design.  I built my business because, like my clients I wanted flexibility in location and hours.  I love that I can work conveniently and affordably with clients and still create the perfect space for them!

E-Design Is Easy

False. A lot of work goes on behind the scenes to create design boards.  I customize each board based on my client’s vision.  Just because I’m not coming to your home with samples doesn’t mean the boards are easy.  The design process of getting room inspiration, shopping, and working with clients is still the same and takes hours behind the scenes to complete.  The method of procurement and way we interact are the only things that change E-Design vs traditional decorating.

I Can Perform Miracles

I pride myself on working within my clients’ specific budget requirements and curating product from multiple sources.  However, I cannot realistically furnish an entire living room from scratch for $1000. Technically I could, but in the end the quality of the furniture would suffer, and your design would look like a college dorm room.  Because of this, I provide a budget calculator so we can level-set the budget expectations together and create a result everyone is happy with.   

I’ve Personally Seen and Tested All The Products I Recommend

I’ve work with many products and have a list of preferred, trusted vendors that I trust.  Have I seen and touched all the items on your boards? NO.  If I have any questions about quality, texture, or colors I’ll sometimes order swatches or do more research, YES.  But this is an exception and not the rule.  At the end of the day, I cannot personally guarantee the color/texture/quality of every item.  Nor can I guarantee the availability or the shipping times for products.  I seek out companies that offer preferred terms for designers, reliable delivery and returns but have no -authority over the third-party companies.

I Can Read Minds

I ask a lot of questions of my clients and have both written questionnaires and Facetime meetings to understand the specifics of each project.  I even take it a step further in setting up a collaborative Pinterest board for each client to pin inspiration or specific elements they want included into their design.  These tools are used for me to deliver the perfect design for my client, not for my clients to do my job.  I’m very upfront that E-Design involves more client collaboration than traditional decorating since we work virtually.  If you desire direct communication with me, I offer packages that address this need.  My goal with all clients is to deliver the perfect design and I’m unable to do that if I don’t know what the client wants the end result to look like.

E-Design is not for everyone, but it’s a GREAT option for the right client.  If you want design direction and expertise but don’t mind being involved in the process to prepare, manage and execute the project, then E-Design is the perfect service for you!

Cathy Di Leo Live on the Jen & Jason Show

Time’s Up on Tuscany Decor!

Peanut butter brown…gold or burgundy paint…Faux Finishes…

wrought iron chandeliers with 12 tiers weighing 800 pounds, window treatments with fringe, fake plants on the tops of your cabinets, metal wall décor, dark wood kitchens…oh how the Tuscany Style from the year 2000 haunts us!  

If you’re like the majority of my clients, you’re watching HGTV getting depressed.  Moving or building a new home seems easier than remodeling, but is not always the answer.  If you’re in a great neighborhood and love the bones of your Tuscan style home, fear not! Updating is not as difficult as you may imagine.  You can go at it alone or click here to schedule a free discover call with me.  

The first step in updating your home, is to determine your style and have a plan.  Whether your home is Transitional, Mid-Century Modern, Farmhouse or Contemporary, the style should be curated to reflect both your family’s personality and the style of the home.  Also remember to keep the chosen style cohesive throughout the entire home so there is a flow rather than a disruption to that flow.  

“Update a home by using an outdated color or palette”, said no one EVER!  A good rule of thumb is that if it resembles peanut butter, you should repaint.  The tricky thing with homes built 15 years ago, is that the trim and wood colors are not compatible to today’s trends.  Many homeowners want to paint in the grays or cool colors that are trending and end up getting a result that doesn’t quite feel right.  This leads to having to repaint or live with a bad result.  There are some great warm neutrals that will give your home an updated look, but still match the undertones in granite and travertine used in Tuscan homes. Painted Accent walls and faux finishes are highly discouraged! Many people add an accent wall when they want a pop of color.  However, many times this is not done purposefully so it ends up giving a less than desired results.  Accent wall are a great idea, but need to be used to accent architectural features, or improve the space.  They are the exception, not the norm!

Many of the mid 2000 homes I go into have very ornate vanities with gilded gold or tile encased mirrors. Even worse, they have a builder mirror that’s glued to the plaster!     Replacing this type of mirror with an oval or round mirror is an easy way to lighten up and modernize the bathroom. When considering paint for the bath, painting the walls and vanities will easily add value to your home.  Walls in blue are always a good choice and bathroom cabinets will benefit from paint if you’ve got dated, dark wood.  Add updated and coordinated cabinet hardware, towel racks, toilet paper holders, lighting and Voila!  No more Tuscany!

Kitchens are definitely an area of the home that echo the century in which the home was built. If you have carved grapes, ornate columns, or other decorative cabinetry, you may want to consider some updates.  While it can be more expensive and time consuming to update your kitchen, cabinets can be painted to completely change the look of a home.  If you’re not yet ready to commit to painting your cabinets, consider an accent color on the island.  These changes can be made easier than completing an entire kitchen renovation, and it’s a lot less expensive.  Even a simple change to the cabinets such adding or updating hardware can completely makeover the kitchen and get you a little closer to the modern era 

Updating your lighting is another great way to give your space an updated look.  Change out that heavy iron multi-tiered chandelier with an orb or visually lighter iron pendant.  Lighting should create a focal point in a room without overpowering.  Pay attention to scale when selecting chandeliers. A good rule of thumb is to measure the length plus width of the room in feet. This should equal the width of a chandelier in inches.  It’s also a good idea to check the height of chandeliers above tables which should be no lower than 30 inches above the tabletop 

A makeover would not be complete if we didn’t touch on furniture and accessories.  It’s time to say bye-bye to the leather furniture! Nothing sucks up the light in a room or screams Tuscany like a leather sofa.  I get it! Leather is exceptionally durable for families and easy to clean with pets.  However, leather isn’t your only option.  There are many performance fabrics in the market like Crypton and Sunbrella brands, for durable, stain resistant upholstered furniture.  Cream, Ivory or oatmeal are great color choices in updated silhouettes with track arms.  This can be as little as an $800 investment and will catapult you into this decade quickly. Keep the leather to a minimum and consider using it for an accent chair or a beautiful ottoman.  Add the finishing touch with metal, wood, glass and white accessories with a pop of color in your pillows and rug.. and you’ve got a fantastic looking space! 

De-Tuscanizing your home may take some time, but keep in mind simple, clean lines with lighter colors is the key to catapulting your home into this century and adding value!