Throwback Reveal: The Oakview Project

It's been a while but I can honestly say that #TheOakviewProject is still one of my favorites to date! This cool craftsman was in need of a little refresh, but overall, the architectural details were there, and just needed to be highlighted. The vaulted ceiling in the living room and the southern shutters were totally charming - but the original 80's fireplace? Oy. That was the definitely the first thing to go! 

We updated the fireplace by replacing the stone with a warm marble tile and by lowering the hearth to be flush with the hardwoods, which gave it a modern feel. To keep with the more traditional aspects of the home, we designed a custom wood mantle with craftsman detailing and painted it in a clean, fresh white that accentuated the stone.

The client loved to entertain, so we made sure that the living room had plenty of seating too, in a layout that was conducive to conversation. The window treatments really brought the height of the ceiling down to a more proportionate view and the reading chair is one of my absolute favorites!

In the dining room, we decided to maximize the square footage by adding an oversized round table with super comfy dining chairs and a knockout statement light fixture to brighten up the space. That fixture is everything! We also were able to repurpose the client’s original art in this space and it really came alive against the natural light.

And I have to say, I absolutely love me a good fiddle leaf fig, even though they’re not always the easiest to care for. A little effort goes a long way with this one since this entry packs a vibrant punch with this sweet spot of greenery and large-scale art. We also opted to keep the console really simple with a rustic finish detail to added depth and character.

This home is timeless and we alI loved how it turned out. There’s a modern, earthy and casual feel to this home that makes it unique and oh-so-welcoming! Make sure to follow along on Insta and check out #TheOakviewProject to see the amazing before-and-afters!

So what do you think? Are there any pieces that you could see incorporating into your own home? Let me know in the comments section below!

Current Mood

Brrr... it’s so cold outside! Is anyone else just totally over it? February is the month that I start getting antsy for warm weather, craving cocktails at the beach and missing my flip flops. I guess I can only tolerate the cold for about a month or two at the time… someone turn on the dang heat! Anyway, we’ve been super busy here at SDS since the new year started. I’ve been working on a few new spaces in the homes of repeat clients... It was Christmas, I blinked, and now here we are! I guess time really does fly by when you’re having fun! Or when you have a pre-toddler living with you. Either one, really.

So one of the projects I’ve been working on is for literally the coolest clients ever. She’s super fun, young, hip, and we’re creating a totally vibrant living room for her downtown Atlanta loft. I presented her with two options, one that I felt perfectly matched her colorful personality, and one that was a bit more toned down, just in case she wanted to go in a different direction . No surprise to me- she chose the color! The moodboard you see here is based on the second design option, (the one that wasn’t chosen, haha). But this look is still super funky with a boho flair and I. want. it. all. I’m mean really. So since I’m vibing this design for myself and it currently lays unclaimed, I thought heyyy, why not share it with you all and maybe make a monthly thing of it!? Yeah, ok. I think I just might!

So every month, I’ll be posting one of my recent design boards here and in my Insta Stories and I’ll include the vendor links in the blog post so that you can easily shop the look on your own. This’ll be a cool way for you to get a little behind-the-scenes glimpse at how a design project of mine starts off, and also to give you some design inspiration along the way! What do you think about that?!

Now tell me, are you feeling this mood? Do you want to see more of these? Let me know your thoughts in the comment section below! I’d love to hear from you. :)

Until next time, cuties!  Xo, Luz

Area Rug // Sleeper Sofa // Hexagon Side Table // Round Side Table // Gray Pillow // Orange Mudcloth Pillow // Leather Stitch Pillow // Black Floral Pillow // Black and White Basket // Pompom Basket // Black End Table // Wood Table Lamp // Floor Lamp // Media Stand // Paradise Art // Moving Hair Art // Abstract Art // Faux Ficus Tree // Gold Planter

January’s Favorite Finds

Hey! Can you believe it’s almost February already?! It feels like only yesterday we were jamming out to “All I want for Christmas” and eating up all the holiday sweets! Ammiright? Well, the month of love is undoubtably just around the corner, and when we talked about natural materials being totally in style for 2019, my heart literally skipped a beat!

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So in honor of Valentine’s Day and all that is lovable, I’ve rounded up my favorite natural and neutral design finds that are seriously worth crushing over.

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1. Rattan Basket // 2. Natural Agate Clock // 3. Aren Pot // 4. Painted Pillar Holders // 5. Recycled Cotton Throw // 6. Acacia Board // 7. Dip Dyed Stools // 8. Zoo Doormat // 9. Black & White Table Lamp // 10. Wood Serving Bowls // 11. Framed Art Print // 12. Two Tier Wall Shelf

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Rattan Basket: This leather basket is so versatile and I LOVE the leather trim and handles! This would be great in a living room to store cozy blankets or under a entry console to hold your favorite shoes.

Natural Agate Clock: I’m absolutely obsessed with this artisan agate clock, it stunning to look at and would make a great nightstand or desk accessory. If anyone is buying me a gift anytime soon, this one for sure is a winner!

Aren Pot: This sweet little vase is perfect for displaying a fresh bouquet of tulips or silver dollar eucalyptus! I like that it’s not too big, so you can corral it in a larger tray to create a pretty catch-all.

Painted Carved Wood Pillar Holders: After hosting thanksgiving dinner (for 20+ people, mind you!) this year- I’m obsessed with alllll the candleholders. These chunky turned wood holders have an antique look and distressed finish that gives it charm and depth.

Recycled Cotton Throw: I love me a patterned throw blanket. This one in particular would look amazing draped over the foot of the bed. With a bold dark gray and white chevron pattern, it’s sure to jazz up a space in need of a little pattern pick me up.

Acacia Serving Bowl: This gorgeous acacia board had me at dovetail! The woods natural split is joined by a butterfly dovetail and the teardrop handle is delicate and seamless. Perfect for an elegant cheese board.

Dip Dyed Stools: Who doesn’t love these perfect little dip-dyed stools?! I see them used everywhere, they’re petite enough to be moved around easily and are great for a little extra surface space. I’ve been dying to get one of these myself for my daughter’s room!

Animal and Kids Doormat: Hahaha! And speaking of my daughter,  this custom doormat always makes me laugh! I have two dogs and a toddler- so it personally rings true, but they’re a bunch of other really funny ones in the shop. 

Black and White Table Lamp: I love this tall and earthy desk lamp! The shape is a perfect mix of sturdy and delicate and the pattern is interesting without being too busy. 

Wood Serving Bowls: These wooden bowls are great for displaying treasures and trinkets. Load one up with a few beaded necklace or do like Danielle Moss from The Everygirl and fill a bowl up with fun polaroid pics. They’ll jazz up your coffee table and be an awesome conversation starter!

Framed Art Print: This is one of my favorite art prints this year. It’s one out of a series of two, so they’ll look great in large format side by side, or you can opt for a smaller one for your nightstand or dresser. I love the neutral colors, and paired with a dark metal frame, it’s chic and oh-so-classy. 

Two Tier Wall Shelf: I love this wicker storage basket to collect everyday essentials! I might use it in a home office to sort mail, but where I really want one is in my kitchen! I could finally store all of our ground coffee jars in something beautiful that’ll keep my counters clutter free.

So there ya have it! What do you think of this round up? Are there any favorites that you’re eager to bring into your home?

5 Interior Design Trends that Are Going to Rock 2019

2018 brought us a shift from light and bright interiors to deeper tones and bolder choices. This year, expect the boldness to continue with five solid design trends that are sticking around and can’t be ignored.

1. Floral wallpaper

Big bold wallpaper is back- and (some) folks have lost the fear! Gone are the days of gray paint and gallery walls to fill up a space. Rooms with colorful wallpapers in botanical themes are really setting the stage for high contrast and cheerful design. Not to mention that the wow factor is amplified, especially when paired with thoughtful trim molding, or used in smaller spaces.

By Michelle Gage

By Lindsay Hill Interiors

By Chango & Co

2. Jewel Tone Furniture

Piggy backing on the deep, moody color trend, furnishings have stepped onto the color wheel and are now being offered in rich emeralds, violets and glorious teals. Pair these vivid tones with leather and natural woods and you have a cozy and dynamic environment that just envelops you in comfort.

By House of Nomad Design

By Studio Ashby

By Cortney Bishop

3. Patterned Tiles

Patterned encaustic tiles are having a serious moment and are possibly here to stay. From colorful backsplashes to monochrome floor tiles, these pattern-rich squares tell a story and can work in a variety of styles from farmhouse to modern. Keep it simple when the surroundings are bold, or really play it up in a tamer room.

By Studio Life/Style

By Old Brand New

By Amber Interiors

4. Natural Materials

Leather and linen are king in my book, and it looks like most designers agree. While I prefer a great performance fabric for kid and doggy friendly sofas, there’s great opportunity to bring these natural materials in to a space through window treatments, ottomans, and accessories. In addition to that, there’s an increased interest in being natural wood, and earthy furniture and decor peices into the home. A great way to bring the outdoors in, I say, and I’m all in.

By Studio Life/Style

By Chango & Co.

By Studio McGee

5. Curved Furniture

This bold ‘70’s inspired style started popping up in 2018 and it looks like we’re embracing it. Moving away from straight lines and boxy furniture, this natural and organic shape can really dress up a room and give it an elegant feel without being stuffy or uncomfortable.

By Leyla Uluhanli Interiors

By Studio DB

By Donna Mondi Interior Design

So there you have it! I’d love to know what you think- do you see yourself implementing any of these design styles in your home? Let me know in the comments section below!  

Lovely to Meet You!

Hi there & Happy New Year! My name is Luz and I am an interior designer living in San Antonio, Texas. Welcome to my little space on the web! A few months ago, my husband and I boxed up our lovely life in Atlanta and transferred it all the way to the big state of TX. Our time spent in Atlanta was amazing, such a beautiful, diverse and vibrant city- we miss it for sure. But, onward we go to new adventures! Our happy one-year-old daughter and two doodle pups have enjoyed the change of scenery. These days our house is filled with lively giggles, little stomping feet, and lots and lots (and lots) of kids songs.

In the spirit of settling in, we bought a rehabbed craftsman which I suspect will go through some additional changes over the course of the next year. With this blog, I hope to share my real-life projects with you and give you insight into my personal design aesthetic. It's also meant to serve as a platform to inspire and enlighten. I'd like to take you along on this crazy journey of mine and hope that we can all learn from each other and evolve together. I can't wait to make this new house a proper home and make some new friends along the way.

Cheers, and so very lovely to meet you!

Xo, Luz