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The intention of this blogpost is to create a “less than two minute read” as I recap my most recent trip to High Point Market!

This twice a year event is open to designers and retailers and showcases over 2,000 vendors.

Please enjoy these highlights!

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Interested in creating a cozy and inviting space in your home that embraces all the comforts of home?

Give us a call – we’d love to chat!

On my kitchen shelf sits a blue, handmade clay teapot with a small crack in the lid.  I bought it about 25 years ago while shopping with my mom in Cold Spring Harbor, a small town in Long Island close to where I grew up.  A few years ago, I had taken it out to show her and realized the chip. I was devastated.   

I can clearly remember her reaction — one that I hadn’t expected.  Because she knew how important that piece was to me, she said gently, “It’s a teapot, not a person.”  

It’s crazy how one small chip can trigger such a strong emotional memory.

Embracing imperfections like this is at the core of Kintsugi — a Japanese mending process which translates to “golden joinery.” In this process, broken pottery is fixed with lacquer resin dusted or mixed with powdered gold, transforming an imperfection into something beautiful. 

Here at Fiori Interior Design, we believe your interior design choices have the power to do the same.

Antique items and heirloom pieces are often flawed — they’ve been around for generations, after all. But within these flaws is a story: every scuff, scratch or chip can reveal who, what, where and when they were used. In some situations, it may serve a space to highlight certain defects; in others, it may be best to have them reupholstered or refinished. Either way, there is often beauty and potential in flawed items, so don’t ignore them!

Stop hiding flaws in your home and start showcasing your imperfectly perfect items. In return you will be sharing your meaningful story.

Having trouble embracing imperfectly perfect items? We’re here to show you their potential AND how they can transform your home.

Contact us today to book a Discovery Call.


Just when we thought the design world would calm down after 2021, it turns out that 2022 is busier than ever!

Because of this, my #1 advice to anyone looking to start a project this year – or next: plan, plan and plan ahead! 

I know, I know, planning ahead may not be the most exciting part of the design process (we all want that accessories closet done yesterday!), but it’s the only way to maintain some sort of control these days—and when processes are controlled, your project can be stress free!

Win-win, yes? Here are four tips on how you can plan ahead for your next interior design project. 

A High Point showroom at the 2021 market

Don’t Let Lead Times Ruin Your Year

If you’re planning a renovation, we recommend purchasing your furnishings now. Why?  Because lead times are currently averaging anywhere from 20 – 40 weeks, depending on the vendor. If you wait to order that new custom sofa or set of swivel chairs when your renovation is near finished, you won’t be able to properly enjoy your new space anytime soon! 

This custom hood was made less than ten miles from our office!

Seek Out Local Vendors

Prior to the pandemic we were purchasing many items from within the United States; these days we’re purchasing almost 97% of our goods from US vendors! Even better: we’re seeking out more local craftsmen to partner with. Not only is this enabling us to provide our clients with  bespoke items, but we’re also avoiding paying those ever-increasing shipping costs.

A discovery from a trip to the National Kitchen and Bath (KBIS) show in Orlando

On-Site Items are Crucial for Kitchen and Bath Renovations

When it comes to starting a kitchen or bathroom project, my best advice is this: have everything on site before your contractor starts the demo process. (Even if your cabinet maker is telling you, again, that delivery time is two weeks away) Receiving all components on site means that you can be sure everything has been inspected and is ready to go.

Another find from KBIS from True appliances – made in America

Make Smart Choices with Appliances

A designer friend of mine, Tennille of Beautiful Habitat, offered this great advice when holding out for that dream appliance: “be flexible, but don’t settle”.  For example:  you have always wanted that 30” Wolf range in your dream kitchen, but it’s on back order until 2023. What if you could get a 30” Wolf range top and a 30” wall oven now? That’s a great compromise. You get the same end result in the same space allocated.

With these tips, you can look forward to peace of mind as you live through the renovation process. By preparing for what’s to come, you can avoid a lot of stress and anxiety—and this way you can focus on the beautiful end result.

Ready to start your renovation and decorating project?

Contact us today!

At Fiori Interior Design, we pride ourselves on designing homes that speak to the heart of every client. When we begin any new design, we ask our clients to show us objects that are meaningful to them. Oftentimes, these objects become our springboard into inspiring design.

Here are three unique ways we have begun a few of our interior design projects.

Hand-Crafted Items Can Be a Catalyst for Creativity 

Having worked with this client for over a decade, we were quite aware of her love for one-of-a-kind, handmade items.  When I presented this Fromental wallpaper to her, she fell in love with its hand-embroidered details and exquisite level of artistry. Following our V.I.B.E standard, we took an innovative approach and had the wallpaper adhered to individual panels. This allowed the client to have the panels taken down and removed, should they ever decide to move.


Personal Pieces May Provide the Best Inspiration

Designing spaces with a personal touch is at the core of every project, so when this client shared a cherished piece of jewelry with us from her collection, we couldn’t help but be inspired by it. This particular item was specifically made for her by one of her favorite artists. Its beautiful details, vibrant colors and handmade craftsmanship inspired us to create a bespoke mosaic for her primary bathroom. Because this is still a work in progress, there will be more updates and photos to follow, so stay tuned!


Heirloom Items are the Perfect Details to Drive Design

The design we created for this living room was entirely driven by the embroidered sampler hanging on our client’s wall. Not only does it serve as an eclectic focal point in the room, but its history gives this space a personal touch — our client made it when she was 16 years old! Because her living room had heirloom furnishings that were well made and meaningful to her, the embroidered sampler influenced how we reupholstered each piece. Its subtle hues, playful shapes and mix of patterns wound up creating a relaxing but playful living room aesthetic.


Whether you want a room’s design to be inspired by an object you cherish or you’re simply ready to transform a space in your home, we’re here to make sure it speaks to your heart! 


What inspires you? Contact us today to schedule a complimentary Discovery Call!

Looking back at these “before” photos reminded us that the most important part of a design is not always the furnishings and objects that we bring to a project. Some of our most successful projects are ones that start with our client’s collections. For this Bergen County project, our clients wanted to keep their sentimental photo collection in the living room.

Check out the before and after pictures to see how we literally married the old with the new to create a pleasing balance between the two! Enjoy!

Since the Dining Room is open to the Living Room, we updated this space as well. Our clients had several sentimental antique pieces in this space that worked perfectly with the newer furnishings. The antiques become the thread that tie the two rooms together while telling the owner’s story.

Finally, we updated the foyer and stairwell by adding new tile, a textured blue raffia wallpaper and a graphic runner!

Four Ways to Create a V.I.B.E. in Your Home

We believe that every home should speak to our hearts — this means including those familial touches, heirloom pieces and hues that make you happy – objects that are meaningful to you and your family. Simply put, your home’s interior design should capture a V.I.B.E. (Vibrant, Innovative, Bespoke and Enchanting).

Today we’re sharing four ways to incorporate these elements into your home to create your unique V.I.B.E. !

Incorporate Vibrant Touches

Research has shown that saturated colors can energize a person’s mood, whereas muted colors are known to help you relax. We were hired to design a client’s living room with the specific purpose of hosting monthly meetings for professional women. The space needed to spark conversation and creative thought.

Tip #1: Start with your favorite piece of art. Add complementary pops of vibrant, saturated colors along with stimulating patterns.


Opt for Innovative Items 

A home should reflect the people who live in it and tell their story in a personal way. While artwork is a wonderful option, we advise (Tip #2) to think “outside of the box”. When a client asked us for a “family portrait,” we avoided the classic headshot route and instead asked each family member to “ink” their thumbprint. We then enlarged and then gilded each one, and had it framed. Above is the end result of a fun twist on a classic family portrait.


Create Meaningful Spaces with Bespoke Products 

Is there a particular piece that you have been searching for…forever? Tip #3: When you cannot find that perfect size, shape or color, it’s time to enlist the talent of a local tradeperson. At Fiori Interior Design, we’re all about working with local trades whenever possible. Thanks to our partnerships with a variety of local trades, we’re able to design one-of-a-kind heirlooms for our clients that are the perfect shape, size and design for them and their home. Plus, because these handcrafted items are well made, they can be enjoyed by generations for years to come. 


Enhance the Feel of a Room with Enchanting Pieces 

You and your family are unlike anyone else — we believe your home should reflect that. Whether that means incorporating flea market finds with finesse or highlighting special collectibles in a chic way, placing eclectic pieces throughout your home tells your story in a unique way. At FID, we love these eclectic touches – so much so that we leave behind handcarved mushrooms (made from local cherry trees!) at the end of every project. 

Tip #4: Visit your local flea market or antique shop and find that one piece that stops you in your tracks. Talk to the seller about the piece and find out its provenance. Your find can become that “story-telling” piece that will create conversation for years to come.


Ready to create a home you LOVE with an interior design V.I.B.E. that’s all your own? Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

The project below is one that we completed last year. Once again, looking at “before” photos reminds us of the transformation that is possible! Enjoy!

Ta da!

3 Top Reasons Why We Need (now more than ever) to Plan Ahead!

And just like that January 2022 is behind us.  Although the future looks different for everyone, it’s been repeatedly proven that planning can help us cope with unforeseeable hardships in a healthy and stress-free way. Whether you’re planning to become an empty nester or to start a family, the time to plan for your future home is now, and here are three reasons why.

One of our favorite vendors showing at a recent High Point show

1. Meet Deadlines By Anticipating Lead Times

These days, it’s hard to know if — and for how long — a project may be delayed. 

In fact, upholstery orders are currently taking an average of 20 weeks to be fulfilled. (and that doesn’t factor in the shipping time!) To avoid this, utilize (shameless plug) an experienced interior designer who can help you visualize your overall home design. This will help you see the big picture, so you can establish a plan, get your orders placed and have the ability to install multiple rooms at once.

It’s not pretty, but it can be kept neat!
It’s not pretty, but it can be kept neat!

2. Cut Down on Construction Chaos 

Planning ahead can result in calmer, healthier lives; the road to designing one should be the same!  If you’re designing a bathroom, for example, we strongly advise not to initiate construction until all of the pieces have arrived and have been inspected.  This gives our contractors the time to block out and reserve space on their calendar and to be able to plan for any unforeseen issues.

We designed these three rooms at once to ensure a seamless transition.

3. Create Cohesion By Seeing the Whole Picture

When homes are designed in fragments, it results in disjointed spaces and differing styles.  To avoid this, it’s best to have a vision of your home in its entirety – even if you are not ready to implement it all at once.  This will ensure a seamless, fluid design that will serve your family’s needs for years to come.

Bonus Material:

Although you can’t predict the future, there are things you can prepare for, such as:

  • Multiple Generations living under one roof

20% of homes in the US have more than one adult generation living under one roof, and if you think (or already know) your home could become a multi-generational home, it’s wise to plan for that now. Click here to see how I transformed my own house into a well-oiled multi-generational home.

  • “Livable Design” aka “invisible” design

We can’t predict where our lives will bring us, but we can envision how we want our home to look and perform. These tips  can help you to stay in your home safely and easily for years to come. 

Let 2022 be the year you plan for you and your family’s future and prepare for the many curveballs of life.

Schedule a consultation today and get one step closer to making your future home a reality. 

Welcome to Fiori Interior Design’s Countdown to the New Year! We are excited for the holiday season and look forward to spreading joy and cheer with those around us. Because who can’t use a little of that?

For those last minute shoppers (ahem, like us) we wanted to share a few local shops, artisans, and everything in between that are “FID approved”! Enjoy and Happy Holidays!

This wonderful local organization assists with moving families from shelters to furnished apartments. FID is a proud partner! How about donating to this cause in someone’s name?

Wortendyke Studio – This pottery studio located in Midland Park, NJ is nestled in an 1865 railroad station. What’s not to love? Check out their unique pottery or try your hand at learning how to create your own!

Mayfair Antiques – This store hides in plain sight off of Goffle Road in Midland Park in the Brownstone Mill. Be sure to check out the other surrounding antique and vintage shops as well!

Grayhill Woodworking – We discovered this hidden gem at the YMCA Holiday fair! If you are obsessed with all things hand carved, this one is for you.

Meyers House of Sweets – Hands down, Meyer’s has the best chocolate around! Head on over to this Wyckoff chocolate shop in town to get your fix.

Abma’s Farm in Wyckoff – Who doesn’t love a multi-generational family-owned farm with a petting zoo?! Try their homemade apple pies – they are amazing!

New Jersey Botanical Garden – For those who are still in hiking mode, this beautiful retreat in Ringwood is just a stone’s throw away. Don’t miss the beautiful castle!

Our last shout out is to the Community Thrift Shop in Midland Park, New Jersey. We love this organization because they partner with the Social Service Association of Ridgewood, serving local families in the New Jersey towns of Wyckoff, Ridgewood, Midland Park, Waldwick, and Hohokus.

As was the case with several of our projects in 2020, this particular project began just prior to Covid, then picked back up again after a six month hiatus. We needed to take the steps that would ensure that our client – as well as our trades – were kept safe during this redesign. Protocols included open windows for fresh air flow, temperature checks and closing off other rooms in the home so that the homeowner could have free reign during the renovation process.

Looking at “before” photos reminds us of the transformation of this year-long project. The stunning results make these challenging processes worthwhile.

In our client’s formal living room and foyer, the goal was to create a more casual, cozy and inviting space where friends and family could gather for holidays. We updated several of the architectural elements such as the dental moulding that was replaced with a more streamlined crown moulding.

We replaced almost all of the furnishings with updated, clean silhouettes that are still traditional in feel. Our client’s amazing sunburst mirror was hidden in her dining room, so offered it center stage by anchoring it above one of the two sofas. We used rhythm and repetition by adding pops of blues and greens throughout the space. This technique creates a cohesiveness in the adjoining spaces and allows your eyes to move seamlessly around the room.

A vibrant chinoiserie wallpaper was chosen for above the chair rail in the dining room. From the entryway of this home the jeweled-toned colors draw you in to this space – but does not distract. An indoor-outdoor area rug (it’s the same that was used on the front steps and foyer) was chosen to establish a casual vibe and create balance between the more formal details of the client’s crystal chandelier. The dining room chairs were upholstered in that same green velvet fabric that you see on the chair that greets you at the front door. (both performance, worry-free fabrics) Rather than choosing traditional art for this space, we found a contemporary piece of artwork that contrasts with the style of the traditional wallpaper – this dichotomy adds a little bit of friction and a whole lot of interest to this space.

A butler’s pantry refers to the space between a kitchen and dining room. Back in the 18th century, these were common in traditional, palatial households as they served multiple purposes, such as storing valuable heirlooms like silverware and china. 

Over the years, this space has evolved due to architectural trends such as the open floor plan as well as the need to use space judiciously. 

 Unlike your regular pantry, where you stock boxes of pasta, pumpkin puree (which, let’s face it, you almost never use), and your favorite snacks, a butler’s pantry is meant to provide prep space and storage for silverware and barware. Think of it as a closet, prep-station, and home-bar all rolled into one (sans the bow-tie-wearing steward polishing expensive china).

Tips On How To Design A Butler’s Pantry

Designing your butler’s pantry could mean having a simple storage area with shelves, or it could be a more elaborate space with a wine fridge, dishwasher drawers, a sink and spacious countertops. The butler’s pantry can be open, sealed-off, or free-standing. It’s a truly versatile space and fun to design!

If you’re planning on including or adding a butler’s pantry in your home, here are my top five tips:

1. Keep It Classic

If you’re a fan of simple and minimal designs, keep your butler’s pantry light and airy with a classic white paint.  Yes – this is the “safe” way to go.

Photo courtesy of Amy Kartheiser Design

2. Pop Of Color

If you find neutral colors a tad boring, paint your butler’s pantry blue and add contrast with a white quartz countertop.

Or how about this high gloss forest green hue? So dramatic!

Courtesy of Housebeautiful.com

3. Backsplash Materials

Since the backsplash is a much smaller space than in your kitchen, this is the perfect opportunity to go all out.  Opt for bold statement tiles.  The reflective surface of a mosaic glass tile on the backsplashes creates a sparkle, reflects light and will brighten up the space. (See the entire project in our Bergen County Kitchen Project.)

Mosaic tile from Artistic Tile

4. Add Task Lighting

Recessed lighting (on dimmers) is always recommended. Recessed lighting that highlights the workspace will ensure that the proper areas are illuminated. Under cabinetry lighting is important If you’re planning to do prep work in your butler’s pantry. Don’t forget about the insides of the cabinets as well; interior cabinet lighting with glass fronts will draw you into the space and creates a dramatic backdrop.

5. Statement Pieces

​​A ceiling fixture will add another layer to this space. Choose a hanging vintage chandelier for an eclectic feel. (If it’s truly vintage, have it rewired of course!)

Courtesy of Rejuvenation.com

Bonus tip:

Don’t treat the hardware as an afterthought; it can make a statement on any cabinetry!

Leather wrapped pulls from Hardware Designs.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re thinking of updating or completely renovating your butler’s pantry, remember that this pass-through space oftentimes needs to connect visually with several rooms. Its style should complement each space – not visually distract from the surrounding spaces.  Have questions or comments?  Give us a call!  We’d love to chat!

I’m an early riser and love to spend my summer mornings on my front porch with a cup of coffee. I can’t tell you how grateful I am for this space – particularly during Covid – it’s become my quiet haven. (aka secret hiding space)

If you’re planning to add a front porch to your house or just thinking about a spruce up, here are my five top tips.

(By the way, did you know that in 2018, according to the National Association of Home Builders, approximately 65 % of new-construction single-family homes were designed with a front porch?)


1. Size

Most contractors suggest that a front porch should have a minimum depth of six feet. As an interior designer,  I recommend a generous depth of ten feet. This ensures that you have enough space to easily accommodate sofas, chairs, plants, lamps, and other furniture you’re planning to add to your space. Of course, the width will depend on the porch’s location, roofline, and the size of your house.


2. Railing Styles

When designing my own front porch, my contractor wanted to add only columns, whereas I wanted columns and a railing.  Looking back, a railing with a bit more architectural detail would have been a more interesting choice. Adding a railing with “personality” can be the  jewelry on the exterior of your home.   


If you love detailing, instead of just a straight rail, opt for a Chippendale Style railing. It lends a classic architectural detail.


Two other options are the Drummer Boy Panel which offers privacy as well. It comes in different patterns and styles and can be mixed and matched with straight rails to create your own unique design.


The Double Cathedral Picket Panel can also be mixed and matched with different finishes.


Thinking about your second home?  This decorative railing panel below works particularly well in the mountains or by the lake as it will blend well with your natural surroundings.


3. Switch To Solid Cellular PVC

If you’re thinking, “ugh, PVC?” I can assure you that you can find PVC that looks exactly like wood (minus the headache of constant upkeep and maintenance). Need more convincing? Cellular PVC doesn’t chip or crack. It doesn’t absorb moisture and it can be shaped or molded easily.


4. Furniture

When thinking of adding furniture to your front covered porch, I recommend woven wicker furniture as it will add texture, pattern and color to your patio. Wicker is also fairly durable and doesn’t need a lot of upkeep under a covered porch – just dust it off at the beginning of the season and cover it in the winter months.

A classic front porch swing is a feature I would also recommend adding. It creates an immediate visual of a summer afternoon, relaxing on the front porch.

Photo courtesy of theporchswingcompany.com

Another great addition is a sideboard, which is the perfect place to store board games, cups, napkins, and other small items so that they’re easily accessible!


5. Lighting

Recessed lighting (on dimmers) is always recommended – I also recommend adding a ceiling fixture if you have the height. Free-standing lamps will also make your porch feel cozier.

Photo courtesy of Southern Living

Pro-Tip: Don’t forget to accessorize your porch with a bell! It adds a little nostalgia…like when kids used to be called in for dinner! (okay, or happy hour for the adults!)


Final Thoughts

​​Front porches are fairly versatile . Adding a front porch is like adding another room to your home. No matter where you live, it’s an investment you will not regret.

I just returned from another High Point Market – one of the top furnishing trade shows in the world. It’s always inspiring to discover new vendors.

Here’s just a peek of what we found to be “note-worthy.”


We discovered a line of beautiful large scale paperweights made with lacquered dried flowers – made by a local High Point artist. We place several orders because unfortunately all of her pieces were sold out by the time we arrived!


Vahallan is another company that has been on our radar! They create a line of handmade, hand painted wallpapers out of Lincoln, Nebraska.  We were finally able to see their process first-hand!


Blaxsand is another company that we frequently visit at High Point. They recently joined forces with a “cohab” that partners with smaller, unique vendors. One line in particular drew us in – beautiful, one of a kind furniture that is designed and built by reformed prisoners. These now rehabilitated men have discovered their value and purpose in life through their craft.


This pewter flower that is embedded in each piece of furniture is a “calling card.” One can be found in each piece of hand-crafted furniture. Each artist is given a pewter flower that they keep in their pocket – a reminder of their newly found craft – and purpose in life.


This recent trip solidified an absolute “trend” that we are seeing these days: one of a kind, hand-crafted pieces. What better way to bring meaningful objects into our home?

What type of things do you find meaningful in your home? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!


Below are some of the wonderful pieces we saw at High Point Market in June.

We are looking forward to going back again in October!

Let us know if we can help you design that beautiful space you have been dreaming of!

I love when clients have artwork that serves as the inspiration for a space. Most often they are sharing a piece of their unique story.  

It becomes more challenging when we seek out artwork for our clients. The process needs to be approached in a thoughtful, creative, and authentic manner that lends itself to sharing their narrative.  

Although  art always is the “last piece of the design puzzle” we are asking questions from the very start that will lend inspiration.  It’s a process that needs to develop over time…not overnight. We make a point of learning about what our clients love…and hate. Discovering to where they have travel, how they spend their weekends, which books they’ve read and what shows they’re seeing.  It’s how we can choose pieces that truly reflect them.  

And oftentimes, we create original art for them.

The importance of art in a room not only adds beauty to a space but intrinsic meaning to the homeowners.

It connects us.

Is it just me or does everyone feel a bit off kilter when they walk into a dark and cluttered room? 

And, how about when you enter a light-filled space, filled with earth tones like beiges and browns with muted cranberry accents? Doesn’t that make you feel a little more serene and stable?

It’s amazing the effect the right design can have on our psyche. Research proves how a room’s design influences and enhances people’s moods and emotions.

Fiori Interior Design takes that concept, blending your goals with your personal style to design spaces that elevate moods, improve focus and enhance efficiency. By bringing your favorite vintage or patina items into the design, we raise the bar, making your space infinitely more interesting and welcoming.

Harvey Cedars, New Jersey Beach House

The view from the Dining Room into the Living Room

I have a habit of redesigning homes in my head.  So when my good friend, who happens to be a realtor, showed me this amazing home on Long Beach Island in Harvey Cedars, these images appeared in my head.

Starting with the dining area, I envisioned a classic round Saarinen tulip table surrounded by vintage wicker chairs.  

The living room is surrounded by a beautiful open staircase.  The modern meets vintage theme continues.  Grounding the area with a colorful wool rug, I (shamelessly?) envisioned one of our semi custom sofas, two wicker chairs and end table and a streamlined Serena and Lily coffee table.  The lighting is from Design Within Reach.

And of course…no view is complete without a hanging daybed.  
You might just find me there this weekend.  

A beautiful first day of summer! Fortunately for us, designing with florals are back…and they’re bigger and better than ever!

image

Inspiration board for a new beach house project.