Outdoor bathing
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Tips for Planning Your Outdoor Bathing Space

Nick Cunha August 9, 2019 Bathrooms, Furnishings, Tips & Tricks 0
Outdoor bathing area stone

Modern luxury vacation homes, especially in the islands, now have both indoor and outdoor bathing space. Features such as a rainfall showers, incorporating landscaping, and decor mimic a spa experience. Outdoor bathing areas provides the ultimate relaxation, and connect people with nature.

The concept is appealing when you live where the air is warm, with sunshine and tradewinds year long. Something about the experience adds to living that tropical lifestyle, where indoor and outdoor living areas are combined with an open-aired concept. 

Outdoor showers are not only an enjoyable luxury, but they’re functional for vacation homes. Keeping sandy feet and swimsuits outside after a day at the beach, or boating can simplify housekeeping later on.

“We love working with our clients on outdoor showers. Our clients love designing these spaces because it is a concept most do not get to enjoy at home. When on vacation, whether it be a whole season, or a week, people want to maximize their time outside. With these features, they can take time to relax while they bathe.”

Tiffany, Lagnappe Custom Interiors

Below are Lagnappe Custom Interiors’ top 5 tips for designing a fabulous outdoor bathing area:

1. Outdoor Showers & Water Fixtures

Many love the concept of a rainfall shower in an outdoor bathing area, to mimic the feeling of a waterfall. Large rain can shower heads achieves this, as the water falls softly from above, for a wonderful, relaxing feeling. 

“It is key to include a hand-held shower head, or a hose with a spray attachment in the area, as they are often used to rinse off things like dive-gear, surfboards, sand toys, and pets. It also makes showering easier for small kids, and simplifies cleaning,” says Tiffany.

2. Outdoor Bathtubs

Enjoy the relaxing experience of a bathtub, under the sun or while gazing at the stars. You can incorporate a tub in your outdoor bathroom as a statement feature, such as an oval stone bathtub. Corner tubs allow more space, and can be built in-ground within your deck like a pool.

“A tub adds extra luxury. There’s nothing quite like soaking in a big tub during the day. We can even add features such as effervescent bubble jets, heaters, or glowing, decretive lights.”

Tiffany Cassidy, Lagnappe Custom Interiors

3. Location & Landscaping an Outdoor Bathing Area

Designing your ideal outdoor bathing area includes finding the perfect location to incorporate the views of surroundings and sea. 

“Isn’t it true? Location, location, location! Will you position your outdoor tub on a private deck with an incredible view? Consider a courtyard setting with a beautiful garden, for truly tropical experience,” says Tiffany.

Combine the indoor bathing experience with the outdoor surroundings by adding greenery and vegetation. Plants like shrubs and ivy require little work, yet create a refreshing feel for your morning cleanse. If your property includes natural stones or palm trees, your design team can include these within your bathroom.

4. Storage Space

In an outdoor bathing area, storage space is crucial. You need to be able to tuck away your bathing essentials to prevent them from collecting dirt. Design teams offer suggestions to incorporate storage areas into your bathroom without taking up extra space. Be sure to include lots of hooks or bars to hang-dry wet towels and clothes. 

“Whether it’s a niche in a stone wall to hold your shampoos, or a teak cabinet with fresh towels, we have unique ideas to keep the essentials handy,” says Tiffany.

5. Seating & Decor

Depending on the size of your bathing area, consider outdoor furniture, to re-create the spa experience. A simple teak bench, or an elaborate stone seat offer additional space to rest dry items.

“Clients love comfy, outdoor steamer chairs. We offer seating made from recycled plastic, which is eco-friendly and durable,” says Tiffany.

Of course, typical indoor decorations such as artwork and ornaments will not withstand the weather conditions outside in the Caribbean. Your selections need to be made from specific materials and weather-proof when decorating your outdoor bathing space. Choose colorful titles and patterns as basics, then adorn with sculptures and even paintings designed for outdoor use.

Remember, even outdoors in the tropics, you need to enjoy hot water all year round. Your design team needs to work with expert contractors for the plumbing, electricity, and air systems, specific to the climate.

Luxurious outdoor bathing spaces are a compliment to any Caribbean vacation home. Teams like Lagnappe Custom Interiors are experienced in sourcing materials, and know the best options for the climate and location. They ensure their clients have a simple, efficient, and exciting time when planning their future outdoor bathroom. 

About Lagnappe Custom Interiors

Lagnappe Custom Interiors is a full-service interior design firm, specializing in bringing the small niceties to a home or commercial space that make it memorable, functional and yours. Based out of St. Thomas, Lagnappe [LAN-YAP] is led by Tiffany Cassidy who enjoys working with clients to create a home that reflects their style and needs. Tiffany marries her artistic and scientific sides together to bring the residents of the Virgin Islands and continental U.S. an interior decorating service that manages the complex and turns it into beauty. Her goal is to not only make a home prettier, but in doing so, make your life better. Visit www.Lagnappe.com for more information.

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Effective Collaboration and Communication When Designing Your Dream Vacation Home

Nick Cunha July 18, 2019 Furnishings, Tips & Tricks 0

Team collaboration software is on the rise. For employees, there is the appeal of being a ‘digital nomad’ and enjoying the perks of working from anywhere in the world. For designers who work in a location where most of their clients are residents part-time, or frequently travel, they love using virtual tools to facilitate design collaboration. 

Homeowners designing their dream vacation getaway benefit by using virtual software provided by their design team to save time by making the process easy and efficient. They can work from anywhere, and on their own time, eliminating the need to be present on the island, from the initial planning stages, to the final touches.

There are so many online collaboration tools which help clients and their design team connect, plan projects, assign tasks, and work on virtual drawing boards to incorporate feedback without face-to-face meets, or even picking up the phone. It’s not all emails either. 

Virtual Meetings

It’s basically Skype, but for the professional world. When clients work with their design team, often communication is not possible in person, and emails or even phone calls are not enough to clearly understand each other. Virtual meetings are a popular tool in all industries, and video-conferencing softwares allow the attendees to access the virtual meetings without a fee or signing up for accounts.

GoToMeeting

One of the most popular video-conferencing tools, GoToMeeting allows you to schedule meetings and share-screens. It’s quick and easy for clients to access the program, in order to connect with their design team.

Zoom

Very similar to GoToMeeting, Zoom offers the same scheduling tools, and top-notch video communication.

“We love to use Zoom for our ‘Strategy Sessions’, which is an online service where we meet virtually with the client for two hours and they get to pick our brain on anything design related.  They then get a recording of the session so they can review it later if needed. We can get TON of info covered in two hours.”

Tiffany Cassidy, Lagnappe Custom Interiors

Zoom is convenient, as the recording is available instantly, and through the same link they used to log in for the meeting originally.

Space planning and Visualizing in 3D

Commonly known as CAD, Computer-Aided Design is a technology for design and technical documentation, used by designers, architects, and engineers. It allows users to replace manual drafting with an automated, and sharable process.

 Sketchup Pro

In the design industry, Sketchup Pro is a popular choice as it offers a simple and customizable interface, and tools to create 2D and 3D designs. While this software isn’t usually used by clients, it is the program which allows interior designers to connect with the architects who work on the home. The benefit of this program for clients is that they receive a 3D model of the space that shows the details and layout of their home.

Sketchup pro allows these future homeowners to view features such as the tiles on the walls, color choice, where fixtures will be located, and walk through the newly remodeled space before it even breaks ground. 

“It allows them to give us their feedback and say things like ‘I’d like that doorway to be larger’, or ‘The TV isn’t big enough.’ In the virtual world it’s super easy to change and costs nothing! When I get on a video call with a client and give them a tour of the space as I imagine it,  we can drag, drop, resize, add, and subtract various elements in live time.  This creates a level of understanding that is very important to being happy with the finished product,” says Tiffany.

Lagnappe Custom Interiors offers their clients online access to play around with these models themselves on their laptops or iPads. This service is enjoyed by all clients, but has worked especially well for families with kids who can play around and visualize their new home so that they are comfortable and familiar with the space before they move. For couples debating a color choice or furniture selection, they can see a mock-up the room in multiple ways to see what works best. 

“I love proving this for my clients. It’s a service where design and tech meet, and people really light up for that visual experience.”

Tiffany Cassidy, Lagnappe Custom Interiors

Sharing Content and Organizing Design Documents

Dropbox

“We utilize Dropbox for all our design plan documentation and specifications so the client, contractor, architects, and any subcontractors will all have access to the latest revisions of the plan.”

Tiffany Cassidy, Lagnappe Custom Interiors

If they don’t already have one, clients can easily create a Basic Dropbox account for free. It is very user-friendly, has automatic organization and backup, and can be used on all devices. 

“Using Dropbox helps us to be sure everyone on the team has access to all the info that may be needed anytime day or night.  If I’m not in the office, you can still review your kitchen specs,” Tiffany explains.

Tiffany Cassidy, Lagnappe Custom Interiors

Project Management Software

Studio Designer

Lagnappe uses a unique software specifically for interior designers called Studio Designer. The program’s most notable feature is the Client Portal. Clients receive a web link to their own personal project page. This tools allow the homeowners to log in at any time from anywhere and view updated information on estimated ship dates, payments that have been received, and items that are proposed for their project. 

Interior Design Software | Studio Designer

This software allows the designers to quickly generate quotes, complete with item specs and pictures for increased clarity.

The design team will put together a proposal with pricing that includes all the items needed to complete the clients’ interior design plan. This proposal includes images, costs, quantities and specs for everything all in one place.

“Our project management software is quite robust and enables us to coordinate thousands of moving pieces with relatively few hiccups.  We love Studio webware.”

Tiffany Cassidy, Lagnappe Custom Interiors

Technology has drastically improved so that those designing their dream vacation rental can rest assured the process will be smooth and enjoyable. The stresses of coordinating times to meet and miscommunication have been replaced with easy, user-friendly softwares, such as the one’s used when you work with design teams like Lagnappe Custom Interiors.

About Lagnappe Custom Interiors

Lagnappe Custom Interiors is a full-service interior design firm, specializing in bringing the small niceties to a home or commercial space that make it memorable, functional and yours. Based out of St. Thomas, Lagnappe [LAN-YAP] is led by Tiffany Cassidy who enjoys working with clients to create a home that reflects their style and needs. Tiffany marries her artistic and scientific sides together to bring the residents of the Virgin Islands and continental U.S. an interior decorating service that manages the complex and turns it into beauty. Her goal is to not only make a home prettier, but in doing so, make your life better. Visit www.Lagnappe.com for more information.

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How to Design an Instagrammable Vacation Rental

Nick Cunha July 1, 2019 Furnishings, Tips & Tricks 0

Stunning vacation rentals with striking interiors capture the eyes of the those who enter them, and now, the hearts and imaginations of those who see images posted on social media.

What makes a space ‘social media worthy’, and especially on the number one picture sharing app, Instagram, is the unique features, breathtaking surroundings, and remarkable decor. 

“An Instagram-worthy space is definitely one aspect of how great design can add value to a vacation rental property. When people rent your condo, love it, and post a photo to social media, it becomes an outlet for exposure to their friends, who could be potential clients for repeat business,” Tiffany Cassidy of Lagnappe.

How can you you make your rental home selfie-worthy? We’ve outlined a few of our top tips below.

1. Focal Point

The focal point of the room should provide some “Wow Factor”. It may be the incredible view that has been framed by the interior surroundings, or a furnishing piece with iconic style  that starts a conversation every time.  Regardless of what the item is, it’s the one thing in the room that when your guests enter, they notice it right away, and always make a comment.  When deciding what the focal point of your room should be to get more social media attention, think like a photographer and ask yourself, “How would I want to be photographed in this space?” Your entranceway is a perfect spot for a focal point, as it is likely the first area a guest sees, and their first impression when welcomed to your home.

Small kitchens in homes are no different. Keep functionality at the forefront, but add touches of your personality in with things like unique backsplash tile or easy-to-clean flooring that has more personality with a funky pattern.

2. Views, Lighting and Furniture Placement

Most vacation homes in the Virgin Islands are situated in a location which boasts incredible vistas. When designing the interior of a room, consider the layout so that the furnishings and backdrop can all be incorporated in one, Insta-worthy shot. It is also important to acknowledge lighting when planning a space, so that both the decor and people in the photos look their best. Nothing misses the point more than a home with a fabulous view where all the seating has been arranged to face a TV, and not the scenery your guest have traveled so far to see.

3. Unique Decor

Lighting is a really important way that interior designers work to change the way a room looks and feels. Good lighting can make all the difference, and bad lighting can really make a space feel smaller.

It’s good to think outside the box when it comes to Caribbean vacation rentals. Vacationers want to escape the plain and typical surroundings of home, so when they stay in a place which is anything but ordinary, they will want to share the experience. 

This is a great opportunity for the homeowner to “try on” a style they would not usually go for in their 12-months-a-year home. Is there a look you’ve always admired, or a color you want to use but fear it’s a little too bold? Now’s your chance, go for it and use that to create something unique with a sense of fun.  A turquoise chandelier in an entrance way welcomes the guests, and give them the sensation that the home owners want to offer a memorable vacation. Furnishings such as funky daybeds or hanging swings are places for guests to share a picture of them relaxing in style.  One of a kind items with a story to tell are always a good choice.

4. Colour Choice

When decorating a Caribbean rental property, often clients want to make every wall a different “Caribbean color”. Instead, consider choosing light or natural tones for the walls and flooring, to keep the space feeling open and fresh; use the bright colors in smaller doses. Instead of including an overwhelming amount of colour in the painting stage, consider decorating with vibrant artwork, such as a large photo of a bay and sunset, which will act like an accent wall.  Brightly colored rugs, throw pillows, and other accessories are easy items to change over time, so you can provide something new to look at every year.  If repeat guests are the goal, you’ll want to surprise them and let them know you are working to keep the place fresh and different.

5. Outdoor Lounging and Poolside Patios

Those who vacation to the sunny Caribbean enjoy the year round warm climate and the opportunity for outdoor living, therefore you’ll want to create an amazing outdoor living space for your guests, and yourself. Think of this as the place to enjoy the sunshine, entertain, or simply relax with a good book. Luxury rental properties usually include a pool, which is not just for swimming, but the centre of a‘room’ where you can add a bar, lounging area, and even an outdoor kitchen. Guests loving eating ‘al fresco’.

Purchase Hanging Rattan Chair

The design team at Lagnappe have experience sourcing materials, furnishings, and services for the luxury Caribbean market. Design your dream home for your tropical escapes, and share it with vacationers seeking the ultimate rental property

Want to incorporate some of these ideas into your own home? Let us help! Visit www.Lagnappe.com for more info.

About Lagnappe Custom Interiors

Lagnappe Custom Interiors is a full-service interior design firm, specializing in bringing the small niceties to a home or commercial space that make it memorable, functional and yours. Based out of St. Thomas, Lagnappe [LAN-YAP] is led by Tiffany Cassidy who enjoys working with clients to create a home that reflects their style and needs. Tiffany marries her artistic and scientific sides together to bring the residents of the Virgin Islands and continental U.S. an interior decorating service that manages the complex and turns it into beauty. Her goal is to not only make a home prettier, but in doing so, make your life better. Visit www.Lagnappe.com for more information.

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Before and After: Family Condo with Great “Rentability”

lagnappe May 13, 2019 Before & After, Tips & Tricks 0

Looking for an escape from their stateside jobs and school schedules, a lovely family with four children hired Lagnappe to renovate and design their island oasis condo. 

When the family isn’t vacationing here, they will utilize it as a short-term rental property to share with other families looking for the perfect island getaway. Later on, it may be used long-term as a place to enjoy retirement.

The best part of what we do as designers is supporting our clients in creating the life they want to live in their homes.  In this case, it’s creating space in a 3-bedroom condo for a family of 6 to relax and enjoy, making the space work for them now, then making this a space that will transition well for them over the years from rental to retirement.  Creating that balance between personal luxury and rental durability is a special kind of balancing act.  We believe strongly in the value of doing things just once and doing them all the way, really right.  The mindset of “just get something cheap and quick” doesn’t feel like value for our clients and it sure doesn’t seem environmentally friendly!  We believe in the value of things chosen well rather than often.  When a space is remodeled to stand the test of time, the effect on the lives of the people who live there is wonderful, and means more time with family, less time shopping and shipping!

Enjoy this before and after journey! If you’d like us to take a look at your space and see how we could make a transformation in your own home, please contact us.

Expanding the area that will become the kitchen.

More kitchen expansion

Kitchen coming together…

A complete, functional, beautiful kitchen!

A beautifully connected space allows for conversation.

Reconfiguring the guest bath

Fully functional and beautiful bath

The garden guest room now features a queen bed and twin trundle.  Plenty of space for everyone to get a good night’s rest!  We used durable, machine washable fabrics and a classic seagrass rug for a beachy look that will stand the test of time.

The space that will become the master bedroom.

We love the calm relaxing feel in this master bedroom.  There’s even a pull-out chair for little ones who need to be close.  Designing to stand the test of time means more than just the furnishings.  Our choice to add the white washed cedar planked ceiling is not only a beautiful look, it is resistant to moisture and bugs (It’s the tropics, after all!).

Soon-to-be master bathroom…

A modern vibe with a feeling of energy.  This tile makes us think of the sea with it’s wave like pattern and Caribbean turquoise color.


If you’re traveling with 4 kids you might want a quiet private spot for your morning coffee!

An ocean-front bedroom with fantastic outdoor space will appear soon…

I love this mix of colors and patterns.  It’s both classic and lively at the same time.  Sometimes when I tell other designers that I use Subrella fabrics for drapery and bedding I get some worried looks. In the island environment, the performance fabrics are the way to go, especially for rentals.  In this photo you’re looking at Sunbrella drapery, dust ruffle and headboard!  The rug is an indoor-outdoor too.  Technology has come such a long way now that the performance fibers really feel luxurious.

Texture, color and accessories come together to create island magic.

A guest bath with an easy-access closet.

Cool and calm, ready for guests!

About Lagnappe Custom Interiors

Lagnappe Custom Interiors is a full-service interior design firm specializing in bringing the small niceties to a home or commercial space that make it memorable, functional and yours. Based out of St. Thomas, Lagnappe [LAN-YAP] is led by Tiffany Cassidy who enjoys working with clients to create a home that reflects their style and needs. Tiffany marries her artistic and scientific sides together to bring the residents of the Virgin Islands and continental U.S. an interior decorating service that manages the complex and turns it into beauty. Her goal is to not only make a home prettier, but in doing so, make your life better. Visit www.Lagnappe.com for more information.

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Yacht Style: Small Spaces with Big Personality

lagnappe March 14, 2019 Furnishings, Tips & Tricks 0

Who hasn’t dreamed of living aboard a luxurious yacht? Floating on the ocean and visiting any island you want with all the comforts of home sounds pretty nice…

While most of us can’t afford a mega-million dollar floating palace, you can steal some of these design ideas and make your home feel like a million bucks (with a touch of nautical style, of course)!

The nature of yacht life is dealing with spaces that are smaller than typical homes. This is never more evident than in the kitchen. Because yachts sometimes have smaller appliances and prep space is limited, getting creative is the name of the game!

Small kitchens in homes are no different. Keep functionality at the forefront, but add touches of your personality in with things like unique backsplash tile or easy-to-clean flooring that has more personality with a funky pattern.

Another way to deal with small spaces: mirrors. Mirrors make any space look bigger, and it’s no different on sea than on land. The beautiful Mrs. Happy yacht utilizes mirrors in spaces that may normally feel cramped to help open them up and evoke more breathing room.

Image courtesy of CYI Charters
Image courtesy of CYI Charters

Lighting is a really important way that interior designers work to change the way a room looks and feels. Good lighting can make all the difference, and bad lighting can really make a space feel smaller.

Some top tips for lighting…

  1. Maximize natural light first. But don’t forget that the sun does go down! Pay special attention to where you spend time after dark, then make sure those areas are lighted well.
  2. Watch the wattage. If the bulbs in the lighting fixture don’t match the feel of the room, the entire piece may feel out of place. You wouldn’t want really bright lighting in a space that should be relaxing (like a bedroom), just like you wouldn’t want low, soft lighting in the kitchen, where you need to be able to see well.
  3. Light your way. Take a note from yacht lighting and think about places that aren’t easy to see in the dark. There are plenty of unique ways to light staircases and hallways so that lighting is both elegant AND functional.
Image courtesy of CYI Charters

Want to incorporate some of these ideas into your own home? Let us help! Visit www.Lagnappe.com for more info.

About Lagnappe Custom Interiors

Lagnappe Custom Interiors is a full-service interior design firm specializing in bringing the small niceties to a home or commercial space that make it memorable, functional and yours. Based out of St. Thomas, Lagnappe [LAN-YAP] is led by Tiffany Cassidy who enjoys working with clients to create a home that reflects their style and needs. Tiffany marries her artistic and scientific sides together to bring the residents of the Virgin Islands and continental U.S. an interior decorating service that manages the complex and turns it into beauty. Her goal is to not only make a home prettier, but in doing so, make your life better. Visit www.Lagnappe.com for more information.

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How to Choose Lighting for Every Room in the Home

lagnappe February 4, 2019 Lighting, Tips & Tricks 0

This comes as a surprise to many people (and clients!), but you don’t have to keep the lighting that was in your home when you bought it. It’s true! There are so. Many. Options. Gone are the days when a single light fixture in a room was sufficient or that all the fixtures need to be the same throughout the house. Here are some ways to choose lighting for any room in your home, as well as some different types of fixtures to spark your imagination.

Size is a top thing to consider when choosing a fixture. A good basic equation to keep on hand is to add the length of the room plus the width of the room, and that measurement in inches should be the approximate diameter of your light fixture:

Width of room (10 feet) + Length of room (12 feet) = Diameter of light fixture (22 inches)

This equation will keep the light fixture on scale with the rest of the space, and keep lighting from either overpowering or looking oddly small.

Use is something else to make sure and consider before installing lighting. If the living area is used for relaxing and entertaining, there’s no need for lots of bright fluorescent lights. The kitchen, however, is not the place to be without adequate light.

Lastly, haven’t you always wondered how high lighting is supposed to be? For pendant lights, measure 66-72 inches from the floor to the bottom of the fixture. For lighting above a dining table, hang the fixture 28-36 inches from the table top to the bottom of the fixture. Where people may be walking underneath the fixtures, like in living areas, bedrooms or hallways, leave a 7-foot clearance when possible. If you have shorter 8-foot ceilings, a lower-profile fixture is the way to go (keep reading for more info!).

In addition to HOW to choose a light fixture, it can be hard to know what KIND to choose as well. Here are some basics:

Flush Mount/Semi-flush Mount

These fixtures hug the ceiling or hang just a few inches down. They offer the “low profile” mentioned above, and are great for smaller rooms or rooms with lower ceilings.

Pendant

Pendant lighting has become more popular in the last few years, and it can often be seen in kitchens, though pendants are making their way into every room of the home. A pendant light – or grouping of pendant lights – hang from long cords or bars and can be quite dramatic.

Chandelier

A “classic” lighting fixture, the modern chandelier is a far cry fro your grandmother’s, dripping in crystals (though those are still around too!). Chandeliers can be made from anything now, and are often used to fill larger spaces.

Floor and table lamps

Lamps are another way to add light to a room without needing to hang anything. From architectural pieces to timeless lampshades, the possibilities are endless.

About Lagnappe Custom Interiors

Lagnappe Custom Interiors is a full-service interior design firm specializing in bringing the small niceties to a home or commercial space that make it memorable, functional and yours. Based out of St. Thomas, Lagnappe [LAN-YAP] is led by Tiffany Cassidy who enjoys working with clients to create a home that reflects their style and needs. Tiffany marries her artistic and scientific sides together to bring the residents of the Virgin Islands and continental U.S. an interior decorating service that manages the complex and turns it into beauty. Her goal is to not only make a home prettier, but in doing so, make your life better. Visit www.Lagnappe.com for more information.

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5 Ways to Make Your Patio Pop

lagnappe January 24, 2019 Tips & Tricks 0

Having a great patio space is an asset in the islands, as it is not only somewhere with a great view, but it’s usually cooler as well. Anyone can create a backyard with a place to eat and drink, maybe an umbrella and a barbecue, but a space that looks great and makes you want to be there is on another level. Here are five ways to make your patio pop.

Create a Lookout

With a great view from every angle, why would you need to create a dedicated “viewing” area? By getting the best possible view and making that place cozy and secluded, you’re creating prime memory-making space. Who wouldn’t want a secluded spot on your property that you and the one you love spend a quiet moment each day? Make it comfortable and you won’t want to leave.

Take a Swing

The porch swing gets an upgrade with seating that literally floats on air. With a good rug and plenty of places for everyone to enjoy swaying to the breezes, elevated seating is a cool place to spend time outdoors.

A Chic Bar

Everybody loves a good happy hour, so why not make your patio the place to get one? A great bar is a fun way to entertain friends and family and a bar that looks as great as the drinks that come out of it is a major plus.

Be Shady

That’s right, be a little shady. Especially in the hot Caribbean sun, a good umbrella or awning is an asset to any patio or backyard. Invest in a great umbrella that really gives your space the shade you need to make the day comfortable, no matter the time.

Al Fresco Dining

Yes, anybody can put up a table and some chairs and it will still be a great time. But a really great dining area can turn a regular patio into an entertainment paradise. Choose a table that can seat a group that you’d normally have, but have options available for more intimate settings as well. Make the seating comfortable and inviting, and you have the perfect recipe for a good time.

About Lagnappe Custom Interiors

Lagnappe Custom Interiors is a full-service interior design firm specializing in bringing the small niceties to a home or commercial space that make it memorable, functional and yours. Based out of St. Thomas, Lagnappe [LAN-YAP] is led by Tiffany Cassidy who enjoys working with clients to create a home that reflects their style and needs. Tiffany marries her artistic and scientific sides together to bring the residents of the Virgin Islands and continental U.S. an interior decorating service that manages the complex and turns it into beauty. Her goal is to not only make a home prettier, but in doing so, make your life better. Visit www.Lagnappe.com for more information.

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3 Times Hiring A Designer Really Pays Off

lagnappe November 29, 2018 Tips & Tricks 0

It’s easy to see some of the advantages of having an interior designer at your disposal for a home project. Check out our blog here for more  reasons it’s usually a good idea! But it’s also easy to say “no” to  hiring a designer, whether it seems unnecessary or too expensive. In case you’re on the fence about beginning a project, here are three times you’ll be very glad you hired a quality interior designer to help!

Choosing a design

When this part of a project seems so simple, how can an interior designer pay off? By letting you rest easy with your final decision. It’s really easy to overthink every little detail, and even when you think you’ve got what you want, are you sure it really goes with the rest of the design? Interior designers know what looks good together, and can even provide suggestions that you may have never thought of yourself. This wealth of knowledge can be your best friend and not only help you stress less about the choices you’ve made, but also make your project even more than you imagined it could be.

Remodeling

Even if you know exactly what you want your home to look like, when it’s time to remodel a space, the sheer number of decisions and tasks that go into the project can become overwhelming. When you have an interior designer by your side, you’ll have someone who can manage that task list for you. A remodel project isn’t simply picking paint and tile. If you’re making a big transformation, it could involve moving walls or making building adjustments, as well as decor elements and furniture choices. The bigger the project, the more valuable a designer becomes. They can not only help save your sanity but also help you save money by finding different ways to achieve the outcome you’re looking for!

Negotiating with Vendors

It can be a tricky business talking with different vendors to get the products and services you need for a design project. While you most certainly are a  capable person, it’s hard to know if you’re getting the best possible deal. A good interior designer will give you at least two distinct advantages. First, they will already have relationships with many vendors. This means they may get special pricing or can help lubricate communication or shipping channels if needed. Secondly, even if you choose a vendor they don’t already have a relationship with, they have a broad knowledge of products and services and will be able to help you get the best possible bang for your buck.

If you have a vision for how you want your home to look and feel, we want to help bring that vision to life. Call or visit us at the show room! www.Lagnappe.com/contact

About Lagnappe Custom Interiors

Lagnappe Custom Interiors is a full-service interior design firm specializing in bringing the small niceties to a home or commercial space that make it memorable, functional and yours. Based out of St. Thomas, Lagnappe [LAN-YAP] is led by Tiffany Cassidy who enjoys working with clients to create a home that reflects their style and needs. Tiffany marries her artistic and scientific sides together to bring the residents of the Virgin Islands and continental U.S. an interior decorating service that manages the complex and turns it into beauty. Her goal is to not only make a home prettier, but in doing so, make your life better. Visit www.Lagnappe.com for more information.

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Mixing Old and New Home Decor

lagnappe October 29, 2018 Furnishings, Tips & Tricks 0

Refreshing your home doesn’t have to mean a complete overhaul of a room or knocking down a bunch of walls to make the space look new. You can bring a fresh new vibe to any room and keep up with interior design trends by sprinkling in new elements with pieces you already have in your home. Here are a few tips for successful mixing!

Add Color

Sure, it sounds simple – because it is! Adding a new hue can totally transform the look and feel of any room. And there are plenty of ways to do it:

  • Paint. Choose a bright new color for an accent wall, or change the entire room completely. It will feel brand new in an instant.
  • Furniture. Instead of buying a whole set of new furniture, find one new piece in a bold hue that will give the room a new edge.
  • Accessories. Adding in a few new home accessories in eye-catching colors is an easy and inexpensive way to brighten up the space.
  • Textiles. From new curtains to a comfy pillow or throw, new textiles create a softness in your home and are a great place to add accent color.

Layer

Who says you can only use one rug? If you have one you love, find a complementary pattern or choose a new neutral to layer under or on top of your current rug. This small change can really shift the way a room feels – from the ground up.

Layering doesn’t have to only mean rugs or floor coverings. A fresh new window covering to go on top of your blinds or alongside your curtains can spruce up your natural light sources.

Go Big OR Small

When it comes to artwork, it can be tough to know how to correctly fill a wall. A good rule of thumb is to pick one wall to be a focal point. Choose big, bold artwork that covers a lot of area, or pick a number of smaller works that coordinate into a gallery-type formation to draw the eye into the room.

Another way to create big bang for your buck on walls is choosing interesting wallpaper. THere are SO many more options now than your grandmother’s damask, and a dramatic wallpaper print could take a room from boring to bold. Whether you go with a repeating pattern throughout the room or a graphic print for an accent wall, this new type of wall covering could be easily changed again and again as your preferences do.

Repurpose

Old things can be made new again with a little time and effort, and they can make for big changes in your home. Have an old chair you love but hate the fabric? Breathe new life into it by reupholstering with a fresh fabric. Have a seamstress or tailor create new slipcovers for your couch pillows to incorporate more color or texture into your living area. Stain a dining room table with a dramatic dark color or sand and paint the table a bright new hue.

Just because the room looks one way today doesn’t mean it must stay that way forever!

We love projects big and small. Contact us today to begin designing your dream space: https://www.lagnappe.com/contact/

About Lagnappe Custom Interiors

Lagnappe Custom Interiors is a full-service interior design firm specializing in bringing the small niceties to a home or commercial space that make it memorable, functional and yours. Based out of St. Thomas, Lagnappe [LAN-YAP] is led by Tiffany Cassidy who enjoys working with clients to create a home that reflects their style and needs. Tiffany marries her artistic and scientific sides together to bring the residents of the Virgin Islands and continental U.S. an interior decorating service that manages the complex and turns it into beauty. Her goal is to not only make a home prettier, but in doing so, make your life better. Visit www.Lagnappe.com for more information.

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Color Forecast 2019

lagnappe September 26, 2018 Furnishings, Tips & Tricks 0

Every year, the major paint companies, as well as Pantone (the major color-matching experts) put out their favorite colors and predictions for upcoming trends. In 2019, we’re seeing a great mix of cool tones perfect for island homes that want a touch of the ocean indoors. There is a surprise in the mix, but what’s a good color story without some contrast?

While nobody can ever fully predict the future, if you’re looking to update your home in the coming year, let these trends guide your choices.

As always, if you have an idea for your perfect room and want a professional’s opinion, give us a call!

Reflecting Pool

The folks at HGTV  have chosen this lovely turquoise shade as their 2019 color of the year. Reflecting Pool is a cool tone that works will with nearly any neutral color, allowing for a bright pop of color to make a statement.

Blueprint

Paint pros Behr have chose Blueprint as their featured hue for 2019. Another cool tone, it looks fantastic in any room of the home. Paired well with warm neutrals and metallics, it’s a lovely choice for a Caribbean home as it is reminiscent of the sky and sea.

Night Watch

This lovely jewel-toned green evokes a lush green rainforest or a deep emerald. PPG Paints chose Night Watch and predicts to see this deep color on accent walls, cabinetry and door colors. Taking a note from fashion, a deep green is a timeless color that will last.

Cavern Clay

Sherwin Williams deviates from the crowd a little with a warmer shade in Cavern Clay. Like its name suggests, the rocky color has tones of red and orange, and pairs well with soft neutrals like creams and beiges. Add a touch of metallic brass and this color will light up any space.

The folks at Pantone have yet to release their 2019 pick, but you can be sure to see a blog about it here when it is announced!

What colors are you thinking about trying in your home?

About Lagnappe Custom Interiors

Lagnappe Custom Interiors is a full-service interior design firm specializing in bringing the small niceties to a home or commercial space that make it memorable, functional and yours. Based out of St. Thomas, Lagnappe [LAN-YAP] is led by Tiffany Cassidy who enjoys working with clients to create a home that reflects their style and needs. Tiffany marries her artistic and scientific sides together to bring the residents of the Virgin Islands and continental U.S. an interior decorating service that manages the complex and turns it into beauty. Her goal is to not only make a home prettier, but in doing so, make your life better. Visit www.Lagnappe.com for more information.