It’s The ‘Why’ That Makes Each  Project Special   

 
 
We get to work on many different types of projectsThe best part… It’s the ‘why’ behind our 
clients projects that makes it unique and personal. And honestly, it’s the ‘why’ of a project that 
helps us, their design consultant, connect with our client’s vision in a personal way.  
A special project we recently completed has given us a happy our heart, so let us share the 
story.  
Instead of moving from a home they love, our clients chose to stay and renovate. They grew 
their single-family ranch by transforming it into a multi-generational dwelling. And while adding 
a separate home for to care for family, they were able to also fulfill a long-awaited dream of a 
beautiful kitchen update! 
 
 
Family Suite: A Second Home Addition 
 
Growing a home is not an easy feat, luckily an unused side yard offered the perfect location to 
attach a perfectly sized home for 1-2 additional family members. Intentionally designed to be 
adaptable, the new 1,000 square feet allowed for future changes for any age or ability. A 
separate front door welcomes privacy and independence, while a shared passageway keeps the 
two homes, and family members connected. The kitchen is a perfect location for a shared 
passageway. It is the heart of the home, you know.
 
Repurpose for the win!  
 
In the case of this home’s transformation, reusing parts of the original kitchen to create the 
kitchenette for the Family Suite. A simple reconfigure of the cabinets, lighting and other fixtures 
made a perfect design while saving money on the addition. It’s always a project win when our 
client is able to repurpose and save money. (Tip: Keep your cabinets clean and well maintained 
to extend life)
 
Give and then Receive 
 
When you give, you shall receive. And it’s our opinion that creating a space in your home to care
for family is a sure sign of a giver’s heart. So, a dream kitchen is what our client gave themselves
in return. A vision that included beautifully crafted cabinets, warmth of natural stone and
copper, a few technology upgrades, and a unique personal signature. Our clients waited a long
time to see their vision become reality. It was surely the icing on the cake to wrap up this special
project for both this two-household dwelling and for us, their design consultant.
 
Click here to see what this client had to say about her experience with Another Opinion!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Every project we have had the honor to work on is special in its own way.  
Another Opinion will fit in where you need us to complete your project.  
Call us at 314-623-4594! 

Helping Your Parents with Letting Go

 

Helping Your Parents with Letting Go


Have you tried telling your parents that it’s time to declutter and to let go of some of things? How did that go? It’s usually a difficult conversation because no one wants to be told to downsize. And sorting through a life-long collection of belongings is hard work. But I know you love your parents and want to help them. Whether you’re standing by their side as they sort, or you’re offering some advice on their decisions, it can be an anxiety-inducing and emotionally draining experience. So, I have a few tips I want to share with you.  

 

It Has Sentimental Value

            While it is okay to save things with sentimental value, it’s also okay to let them go. There is a little guilt that comes along with sentimental items, the feeling that we must hold on to things that span time. It’s important for your parents to know that they don’t have to feel bad about getting rid of things. They might need to hear that they have permission to let things go, such as family heirlooms and your childhood artwork they’ve been holding on to for you. Sorting through special things can be tough but passing them along can be so rewarding.

 

A Lifetime of Collections

            We are all collectors, of something, at every age. Your parents have been growing and curating their belongings, surrounding themselves with the things they love. So, having to minimize is a tough one. Instead of ‘getting rid of’ these items, use a ‘less of’ approach. Give them lots of time to select the most special 3 (or 5) pieces in their collection that they will keep.

 

We Might Need It Later

            Probably not. And when the time comes, will we be able to find it or even remember we have it? It doesn’t matter, because hanging on to things ‘just in case’ feels better. You can help your parents learn to live with less with a few organizing tips. First is to group like items, to eliminate duplicates scattered around the house. Then, sort areas by separating items used daily versus occasionally so they can find what they need when they need it. You’ll be surprised by how many extras you find of those ‘just in case’ items.

We can help! Another Opinion has vast experience with clients of all ages; helping with clutter, organization and downsizing. Call Staci at Another Opinion 314-623-4594

2021 Interior Design Trends

2021 Trends

 Trends… they inspire us to find design styles we love and want to surround ourselves with. And, after a challengingyear that forced most of us to stay at home, it could not be a better time to bring more comfort into your home. With a new year comes new trends! Here is what we are seeing come to light for the year 2021.

Mixing Wood Tones

            Mixing wood tones can be daunting, but if done right, can make a beautiful accent in your home. If all wood tones are the same, nothing stands out and the room can fall flat. Try contrasting floor with furniture. For example, if you have a dark wood floor, try pairing a piece of furniture with more of a light wood color. Also, wood doesn’t have to be brown. There are some beautiful grey stain colors out there if grey is more your style!

Modern Rustic

            We are seeing more and more rustic homes, adding a touch of modern! The two can create a beautiful blend of old and new. Let’s go back to mixing woods. Try adding some modern touches in with your wood tones and wa-la! You get the best of both worlds, a beautiful blend of modern and rustic.

White is Back

            Remember when we were all painting our walls beige, or grey? While these are still gorgeous, we are seeing more and more white walls coming back into the picture! This is a classic trend that gives you more accent color options. White walls just give you that fresh and airy feeling that we all love.

 

At the end of the day a trend is just that, a trend. While they are fun, it is most important to decorate your home how you like! Call Another Opinion at 314-623-4594 and we can help you get your project done! What 2021 trends will you be trying?