“Her Office” designed by Catherine Kwong Design was the star! Designed for a fashion blogger client, this stylish office hit the mark with a sophisticated palette and modern furnishings.

The “Teen Only Hangout Room” designed by Em Design Interiors was another fabulous space, with a groovy neon sign and wallpapered ceiling. I was even more impressed when I learned that this was removable! (Find it here.)

I liked the quiet sophistication and muted palette of “The Listening Room” by MacCaul Turner Design. The lighting was all PERFECT.

Last, but not least, is the “Gentlemen’s Study” designed by Geoffrey De Sousa Interior Design. No wonder we loved this room so much – we shop at this showroom A LOT. How insane is that desk??

This was my first experience working with an interior decorator and I was nervous that I was going to end up with a room that was more their style and not mine. That was not the case with Jennifer! Jennifer really listened to what I had in mind and how I intended to use the space. She also had me look through pictures and identify what I liked/disliked in each one. I think this really helped me also get a sense of the feel of the room that I was looking for. I also loved that for each piece that was recommended, Jennifer provided three pricing options. This allowed me to really mix and match from big box stores and unique items. It also helped me stay within a budget I was comfortable with.

Throughout the process, Jennifer was always in communication and let me know where we were with each item. This was a wonderful experience and I am so happy with both the living room and media room.

The room already had a good start – with high ceilings, architectural details, and existing drapery panels and mirrors. We spruced it up with a new seating arrangement featuring an octagonal ottoman designed by Niche Interiors, upholstered armchairs, a rug, and new lighting. (Do you covet that ottoman as much as we do?!)

There’s a lot of buzz about eco-friendly, non-toxic nurseries these days. Hooray, it’s about time! All this information can be helpful but a little overwhelming. We are here to help you sort through the details and focus on the most important elements that will impact your baby’s health.

Indoor air quality should be your biggest concern. Your little one will be spending hundreds of hours in their nursery, so it’s important to pay attention to the potentially harmful chemicals that off-gas into the space. Most importantly, pay attention to the following three elements.

1. Paint: Choose zero or low VOC paint, which releases less harmful VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, into the air.  Added bonus: The icky just-painted smell is practically non-existent! Our favorite line is Benjamin Moore’s Natura paint: It’s zero VOC and it’s compatible with any of Benjamin Moore’s wide range of colors.

2. Crib: Choose a crib with non-toxic finishes and that meets the highest regulations for formaldehyde emissions. Most cribs manufactured in Europe or Canada will meet this standard. We like Oeuf and Muu for their clean, modern style and use of sustainably harvested wood.

3. Mattress: This might be the most important purchase of all. Standard crib mattresses often contain harmful chemicals and fire retardants. Look for mattresses that are made of natural latex, organic wool, or organic cotton. Try Naturepedic or OMI Mattress.

Additional tips: Avoid roller shades made of PVC and avoid installing new wall to wall carpet (the adhesives can off-gas like crazy). Opt for hardwood floors instead. Wherever possible choose natural organic fabrics such as cotton, linen, and wool rather than synthetics. And, don’t forget to open a window! Fresh air will help prevent any harmful chemicals from building up in your home.

 *Still need professional help? Contact us today about our San Francisco green interior design services!

1. Make a big statement. Use a patterned wallpaper to add impact to a dull powder room, or create a tile accent wall to bring the eye upwards, imparting the illusion of space.

2. Maximize your space with an efficient floor plan. Every inch counts in a tiny bathroom, so evaluate if your existing layout works for you. Do you bang your knee on your toilet every time you open the door? Chances are you need a change. In the bathroom above we moved the toilet from in front of the door to the back wall and added a wall-mounted sink in place of a vanity. Just remember to check your clearances with California building codes, especially if you plan to move the toilet.

3. Wall-mounted sinks and recessed niches are your best friends.  To avoid an overstuffed bathroom consider using a wall-mounted sink in the place of a traditional vanity. Utilize every inch of storage by carving out niches in your shower wall and installing recessed medicine cabinets for additional storage.

*Need professional help? Contact us about our San Francisco bathroom remodeling services.

Eco-conscious clients tasked Niche Interiors with creating a stylish and sustainable pied-à-terre for weekend stays in the city. 

The open plan living and dining room feature a custom designed eco-friendly sofa made locally in San Francisco. Organic cotton and linen fabrics mix with a silk and wool rug and zero-VOC paints. A vintage dining table is paired with a hand-blown glass chandelier. 

A mix of luxurious fabrics, plush organic wool pillows, and tailored upholstery create a welcoming guest retreat. In the master bedroom warm tones compliment the reclaimed wood bed. 

Click here to create your free Joss & Main account now. Happy shopping!

New to the retail scene is Aldea Home, a larger home furnishing and accessory offshoot of their Aldea Niño kids store on Valencia Street. Stop in to check out the new Dwell Studio furniture line, Jonathan Adler accessories or John Robshaw textiles.

Aldea Home

Another notable newcomer is FLOR – the manufacturer that made carpet tiles cool (and recyclable!)– they open up shop in Union Square this month. For more eco-friendly options head to the Green Depot on Bryant Street for a recently expanded offering of environmental building products, including flooring, countertops, and cabinetry. Happy shopping!

1. Edit & Mix it Up. Pare down your stockpile to the most interesting and unique items and mix these in with books and other accessories. Stack books vertically and top with an interesting object.

2. Color coordinate.  Group items from the same color family together to create a more cohesive look.

3. Keep it Simple. To get the most impact from large collections, display on simple shelves without any other distracting objects.