3 Tips FOR CHOOSING FURNITURE

The right furniture can make all the difference by creating the look and feel you want. But knowing what to choose can be daunting. Here are Lisa’s top three tips.

1. SET YOUR GOALS. Begin by determining your goals for the space. How do you want to use the room, and what furniture will you need for those functions? Create an idea board to get a strong sense of your vision. Look for pieces that best reflect the vibe you want. For example, for a more minimalist look, choose pieces that have clean, sharp lines.

2. START WITH A STATEMENT. Consider featuring a statement piece and building the rest of your design around it. Choose a sofa with patterned upholstery or an antique desk to add character. You could also use a rug or tile flooring to serve as the focal point for your room and inspire your furniture palette.

3. KEEP IT FUNCTIONAL. Find furniture that works for both style and function, especially if you have kids or pets. Lisa recommends finding pieces upholstered with performance fabrics and choosing pieces that can withstand continued use. “When picking tables and accent pieces, I love the patina of a distressed piece that also stands up to the heavy wear and tear of an active family,” she says.

"Keep it simple, and above all, cozy. That’s what home should be, right?”

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in linen draperies and textured pillows and throws.”

FARMHOUSE TOUCHES

For this Georgia manor project, Lisa’s clients wanted to infuse practicality and relaxed elements into their grand estate that includes an in-law apartment, home theater and pool. With a penchant for hosting, her clients needed spaces that were both spacious and approachable. After establishing a floor plan and the main furniture pieces,

Lisa helped her clients choose fabrics, rugs and paint. The final step was choosing lighting and the special pieces to make the space unique and inviting. “It’s what adds individuality and charm, and the ever-important cozy-factor,” Lisa says.

In order to create this “cozy-factor,” Lisa incorporated features of farmhouse style into her design. In the great room, rustic wood beams draw the eye upwards to the high ceiling and a simple but elegant chandelier. Textures and soft patterns create a welcoming feel, and the custom chicken-wire cabinets add a vintage touch. The kitchen also showcases rustic wood support beams, as well as a farm sink and oak flooring. The mudroom is a farmhouse classic, with clean lines and simple striped cushions that provide a fun and functional storage space. All of these design choices come together to create the elegant yet relaxed manor home Lisa envisioned. “Keep it simple, and above all, cozy,” she says. “That’s what home should be, right?”

(top) The in-law suite feels like its own home. “We went more informal with a cottage flair for this space,” Lisa says. She used much of the clients’ in-laws’ original furniture, but added a slipcover to the sofa, textures and lighting for character and warmth.

Large wood crossbeams and a classic farm sink add farmhouse functionality and simplicity to the kitchen. Aiming to create a casual but timeless space, Lisa used neutrals and natural textures. “The beams make the house feel more authentic and match the oak floors, which are stained gray and treated with a beeswax finish called Rubio,” Lisa says.

(top, right) Overlooking the pool and lake, this outdoor space serves as a location for hosting large gatherings. “We wanted it to be an extension of the living/dining/kitchen area inside when all of the doors are pulled open,” Lisa says.

(top, left) Continuing the cottage feel, Lisa added whimsy and touches of the French countryside for the in-law suite bedroom. “I especially love the bird chandelier and the large-scale gingham drapes with ties,” she says.

Carrara marble tile and soft neutrals are a timeless touch in this master bathroom. “The Damask patterned drapery fabric and free-standing tub add to the elegance of the space and tie in well with the French manor style of the bedroom,” Lisa says.