Luxury Interior Designer Shares Top 5 Design Secrets

Kellie Burke Interiors

Tue, Sep 25, 2012

While most people would like to believe that their home is impeccably designed with the utmost taste and style, the fact remains that not everyone knows as much as an interior designer does. Their skills and expertise allow these professionals to bring the most unique design schemes into reality. For those individuals who would like to give interior design a try on their own, premier interior designer Kellie Burke Interiors is revealing the top five interior design secrets.
Taking your interior design to the extreme is the work of top interior designers, but for a simple room change-up, here are a few helpful tips.

• Secret 1: Let the light shine in. You can change the entire ambiance of a room simply by changing the lighting. Try hanging a large pendant light above the center piece of the room, like a dining room table or a large coffee table. Add in a dimmer switch to casually adjust the mood when necessary. Be aware of the color of your shade, as this will greatly impact the light reflected in the room. 

• Secret 2: Don’t let the TV consume your life. While everyone enjoys watching a little television, if it’s too large it can completely throw off the interior design of a room. In order to ensure the right size television, measure from the sofa to where the TV would go and divide this number by 2.5. That sum is the width of the television screen you should have in that room. 

• Secret 3: Don’t overcrowd your space. It is nice to be an accommodating host, but having too much furniture in a room makes it feel cluttered, messy and small. You want to have enough space inbetween your furniture to comfortably walk by. Start by marking imaginary furniture into a room and then walk around to see how much space you really have. 

• Secret 4: Choosing the right paint color is essential. Without the help of an interior designer, choosing paint from a color chart can be difficult and daunting. Instead, buy sample pots to paint on to thick white paper and then hang on your walls. This will allow you to see the color when it is dried and the way it reflects with the light in the room. 

• Secret 5: Be careful when hanging pictures. Many people make the mistake of hanging pictures too high or low. A good rule of thumb is hanging a picture 1.5m from the floor, which is the average person’s eye line. 

Interior design can be fun, but for expert advice and a hassle-free design experience, enlist the help of professional interior designers at Kellie Burke Interiors.

Restaurant Design by Kellie Burke Interiors

Good food and customer service are the core of a successful restaurant, but the ambience can make all the difference to diners. When guests first walk into a restaurant, the interior design is the first aspect that grabs their attention. There are several components to take into consideration when it comes to the interior design of a restaurant, but with the help of professional decorators like Kellie Burke Interiors, dining perfection is possible.

Kellie Burke Interiors can sculpt the ideal interior of restaurants. This Connecticut design company has meticulously crafted the interior of Bricco Trattoria and Grant’s Restaurant.
The decor should encompass both a welcoming ambiance and the ability to seat plenty of guests comfortably. Professional interior decorators are able to identify those problem areas in a restaurant, and transform the space to accommodate their guests' desires.

Appealing to clientele poses the question: what do diners want in their dining experience? Guests crave an intimate, yet lively atmosphere that is pleasing to the eye and comfortable enough to fully enjoy. A skilled interior designer understands how the use of shutters can create a more intimate space, hiding the parking lot scene while still allowing light to filter in. The addition of window treatments will both flank and warm the space, as well as providing acoustical value, depending on fabric choice.

Everything from the windows to the floors needs to appeal to diners. In today’s interior design world, there have been great advancements in commercial flooring. Restaurants can keep a classic look on the floor while still being modern, with ceramic tiles that are designed to look like wood, but with added durability.

While the core foundation is important, diners are most concerned with being comfortable while dining. Creating open spaces within the restaurant allows diners to feel like they have room to breathe and eat with family and friends. The use of unique lighting and ceiling treatments can really define an area, with custom woodwork built into the walls and utilitarian areas.

Whether it’s a farmhouse industrial theme or a futuristic appeal, the interior design of a restaurant is always important. Pair with Kellie Burke Interiors, adding in divine food and customer service for restaurant success.

Linen Embroidered Pillows

Linen Embroidered Pillows, $140 each

 At Kellie Burke Interiors we love to change out the pillows on our sofas and chairs seasonally, and when we came across these linen embroidered pillows we couldn't wait to share.  These bright, fun prints are the perfect way to brighten up your sofa in these late summer months and into fall!

To purchase, please contact: 

Kellie Burke Interiors 

993A Farmington Avenue 

West Hartford, CT 06107

860.232.9128

All About Window Treatments!

Window treatments can be custom made in a variety of different styles, and working with a designer will help select the perfect style for the house, design style of room, and needs of client.  Between panels, shades, swags and valances the choices can seem overwhelming, but a good designer can help narrow them down and select whats best.  At Kellie Burke Interiors, we can also combine treatment styles or even create a whole new custom look depending on needs and wants of client.   Window treatments are the best way to warm up a space, make it feel homey and give a room a finished look.  Many clients are worried about losing their view or having a treatment that is too heavy, but even a simple top treatment can make all the difference in the world without obstructing the view. 

Layered looks for window treatments are also key.  The best under-treatments to start with are woven wood shades, shutters, or shades in custom fabric options.  These all make a great foundation to start with, and for those with a tighter budget more ornate layers can be added on later.  The under-treatment is the best way to control light and privacy.  Any additional layers, with the exception of some panels, are best to be used as a decorative option. 

Window treatments can be as ornate or as simple as the client and the space requires.  Panels are the most versatile, as they can be ultra-modern with clean lines in a simple fabric, or trim can be added to a patterned fabric and you’ve already stepped up the look. Additional options can be layered with panels including cornices, swags and jabots (just to name a few). 

Working with a designer is most beneficial when it comes to window treatments because many time stock sizes aren’t quite right, leaving an unfinished look.  A decorator will also understand scale and proportion of the space, as well as placement of the treatments on the wall.  Color and texture are also two qualities that can enhance a space when used correctly.  

For more information, or to set up a consultation, please contact Kellie Burke Interiors at 860.232.9128.

Kellie Burke Interiors Summer Sale!

Construction has finally begun!  We are transitioning our space from a retail store to a design studio, and all of our floor samples have to go!  Come shop our in-stock floor samples and find amazing deals of 50% off!  Sale includes all furniture pieces, chandeliers and lighting and larger home accessories.  All items will be on sale until they sell!  We are open Monday- Friday 9:00am-5:00pm, come by and check it out! 

Chandelier: $1060 (Was: $2120)

Slip Covered Chairs: $418 each (Was: $836)  2 Available

Column Lamp: $220 (Was: $440)

French Pet Bed: $880 (Was: $1760)

Mirror & Gold Leaf Chest: $1097 (Was: $2195)

 **** Sale Applies to In-Stock Items Only.  Final Sale, No Returns, Exchanges or Refunds.  Exclusions May Apply. ****

Habersham: Old World Elegance

Kellie Burke Interiors is proud to announce that we are the Connecticut dealer for Habersham Kitchen & Bath!  After 40 years in business, Habersham Home launched their Kitchen and Bath Collection in Spring 2002.  Designed with luxury and elegance in mind, Habersham Kitchens and Baths are “inspired by the elaborate furnishings of Europe’s 18^th century palatial estates and the simplified, romantic styles of the French countryside.”

Custom Habersham Kitchen

Our favorite thing about Habersham Kitchens is that they are fully customizable.  From sizes to styles to finishes, every detail is hand selected.  We work closely with our clients and the staff at Habersham to design a kitchen that best suits the needs and wants of the client.  Kitchen storage has improved drastically over the years, and Habersham has all of the latest options for pots and pans, pantry storage and everything else imaginable.  Habersham also has a large selection of finishes to choose from. There are Studio Finishes which combine color and texture in a gradual layering process that has amazing depth and character.  The Connoisseur Finishes have the look of fine antique furniture seen in many estate homes.  Habersham also works with Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams to provide custom colors in any paint selection you find.  Habersham Home also makes furniture, so the look that you select for your kitchen can be carried into the dining room and beyond. 

Habersham cabinetry also has a home beyond the kitchen; it is great for a home office, creating a great built in storage look that, like their kitchens, is fully customizable.  Habersham also makes dressing rooms that are to die for. They can be customized to hold laundry, closet rods, shoes, jewelry and more. 

Because we are a full service interior design firm, we have the ability to do a complete kitchen remodel; from moving walls and windows to selecting the cabinet finishes, counter tops and hardware; an entire design scheme will come together beautifully.  

Custom Habersham Dressing Room

Custom Habersham Dressing Room

Custom Habersham Bathroom

Custom Habersham Media Center

Custom Habersham Door/Bookcase

Get It While It's Hot!! Hunter Douglas Now at Kellie Burke Interiors!!

Kellie Burke Interiors is proud to announce that we are now a dealer for Hunter Douglas!  To celebrate we are offering a free measuring appointment, a savings of $150!!***  As a full service interior design firm we are always looking for products that will enhance our client’s home and for that we love our Hunter Douglas products.  

Hunter Douglas offers a full range of treatment options including, wooden blinds, woven wood shades, soft shades, shutters and motorized options.  Hunter Douglas’ treatments can all be customized to suit your needs. The Design Studio Roman Shades have over 300 fabric options to choose from, as well as four shade styles and six valance options.  Many of the other treatment options have variety of fabrics and options to choose from as well.  The translucency of the treatments can also be customized, with options ranging from sheer to blackout in many varieties.   

Hunter Douglas is also keeping up with the latest technological options, many of their brands can be installed with the Easy Rise Touch feature which allows the shades to rise and lower with the touch of a finger.  This easy, cordless option is great for families with kids, or those that want a clean, streamlined look.  Many treatments can also be motorized, which is an excellent option for spaces with high windows.  This feature is great because you can have you full view when you want it and sun protection and shade when you need it.  This can be done with radar remote or, if you are building a new house, can be hardwired into a wall switch.   

As designers, we love Hunter Douglas for the layered look that they provide when used as an under treatment.  Many times we have clients who want a full window treatment, complete with panels, swags, jabots and tons of trim, but they still want the light control and privacy option of blinds or shades.  Because Hunter Douglas can be customized, we can make sure that the under treatment coordinates with the treatment and the room’s design scheme.  Aside from the functionality of the under treatment, the layered window treatment adds depth and texture to the design; at Kellie Burke Interiors we love woven woods underneath.  They can include the right amount of translucency or opaqueness desired, plus a great look and texture for the space.  If you like a clean modern look, Hunter Douglas products can also be great as a stand-alone window treatment. Gone are the blinds of yesteryear, these products all have an updated, contemporary look that is great in any household.  

Hunter Douglas Provenance Woven Wood Shades

Hunter Douglas Design Studio Roman Shades

Hunter Douglas Heritance Hardwood Shutters

Hunter Douglas Luminette Draperies

Hunter Douglas Pirouette Shades

*** Measure fee of $150 to be paid upfront and then deducted from purchase of $500 or more ****

Fun Summer Colors & Tribal Prints!!

Warm weather has arrived and is here to stay!  At Kellie Burke Interiors, we love doing a seasonal swap-out in our spaces, and for Summer 2012 we are loving fun, bright colors and tribal prints.  Tribal prints, like ikat arrived on the design scene a few years ago and they're still a major trend; we don't see them going away any time soon!  When done in bright, vibrant colors they are perfect for summer.  Check out the pictures below to see how we mixed a fabulous silk ikat print pillow with a geometric print, cut velvet, and tons of fun trim.

The easiest way to update a seasonal look in a space is to swap out smaller accessories.  For summer, its great to throw in some punchier prints and to use more saturated hues than what you already have in the space.  Don't be afraid of the brights; because they are just on the pillows, it will be a pop rather than an overwhelming look.

Mother's Day Gifts at Kellie Burke Interiors!!

The month of May is rapidly approaching and that means that Mother’s Day is right around the corner!!  You will be sure to find the perfect Mother’s Day gift at Kellie Burke Interiors, and most of our in stock items are 20% - 50% off regular price!  We’ve put together some great gift ideas below. 

Floral Arrangement $313.50 (Originally: $627)

Set/3 Candle Holders $412.50 (Originally: $825)

Set/3 Mini Frames $34 (Originally: $68); Set/2 Mirrored Trays $33 (Originally: $66)

Home Fragrance: 20% off Original Prices; Shelf $715 (Originally: $1430)

NEW!! Jewelry Line, Turquoise, Brass, Gold and Silver Pieces

Chandelier Necklaces $280 (Originally $350); Clutches $96.50 (Originally $193); Tray $47.50 (Originally $95)

Vietri 20% Off All In Stock Items!!! 

For more information please call: 

Kellie Burke Interiors 

860.232.9128

*** All Sale Items are Final Sale, and Sold "As-Is". No Exchanges, Refunds or Returns. Sale Applies to In-Stock Items Only, Some Exclusions May Apply***

KBI Haute House Sale

Kellie Burke Interior's Haute House Sale officially starts Monday!! Today's preview item is our fabulous Dog Bed Side Table. So chic, with it's dark ebony finish and ivory upholstered interior, perfect for our furry friends!

Dog Bed Side Table $880 (Originally: $1760)

For details please call: 

Kellie Burke Interiors 

860.232.9128 

*** All Sale Items are Final Sale, and Sold "As-Is". No Exchanges, Refunds or Returns. Sale Applies to In-Stock Items Only, Some Exclusions May Apply***

KBI Glamour Sale!!

Our KBI Haute House Sale officially kicks off Monday April 16th (one short week from today!) so we thought we'd give you a little preview... 

Crystal Lamp $946 (Originally: $1892), Set of Bottles $115.50 (Originally: $231), Granite Side Table $336.50 (Originally: $673)

This lamp with a solid cut crystal base and Swarovsky Crystal embellished shade is so chic! It would add the perfect amount of sparkle to any space; we love it for a glamorous bedroom! The set of smoke gray bottles on antique mirrored tray would be a fabulous addition to a dressing room, and the black granite side table would a wonderful addition to any space! 

For details please call: 

Kellie Burke Interiors 

860.232.9128 

*** All Sale Items are Final Sale, and Sold "As-Is". No Exchanges, Refunds or Returns. Sale Applies to In-Stock Items Only, Some Exclusions May Apply***

Bling! Bling! Bling!!

If there's one thing we LOVE at Kellie Burke Interiors, its BLING! Sparkles, rhinestones, crystals, you name it, we will eat it up.  Adding sparkle to a space can keep it from being basic and boring, it adds that little "extra something" that makes a room interesting.  One thing we love doing is adding  some bling to everyday objects. We had crystals added to a candelabra and how it takes a basic silver candelabra and gives it a little more presence. Just imagine how the crystals will sparkle once the candles are lit, and how it will reflect out into the space!

Another option: take your utilitarian, everyday object that you look right through and make it super special.  For example, we had this make up mirror bling-ed out for a sparkle loving client.  What was something that didn't look so great sitting out on your vanity can now stand proud in a display with pretty perfume bottles on a tray, or with a set of makeup brushes in a fabulous brush holder.  Just by adding a little sparkle takes this simple object (and therefore your room) a long way! 

Kellie Burke Interiors Spring Sale!

Kellie Burke Interiors

Invites you to join us for our “Haute House” sale!

We are cleaning out and redesigning our studio, now is your once-in-a-lifetime chance to save up to 50% on select items!

Monday April 16^th 2012 - Saturday April 21^st 2012

50% off

Home Accessories

Select Fashion Accessories

Select Past-Season Jackets

20% off

Home Fragrance

Jewelry

Vietri Tableware

Beatrice Ball

***Some exclusions may apply, sale applies to in-stock items only, all sale items are final sale***

Custom Closets by Kellie Burke Interiors

Spring has officially arrived! At Kellie Burke Interiors, two things come to mind: Spring Cleaning and Spring Wardrobes. We are itching to get into our closets, put away all of the heavy sweaters and boots and dust off the brighter, lighter clothes! 

If you are ready to do the same, but are overwhelmed by a dark, disorganized closet, fear not, fear not. Kellie Burke Interiors has a solution. A Customized Closet! As part of our Interior Design Services, Kellie Burke Interiors, we can design a dream closet. Imagine being able to “shop your closet” and have all of your treasures out of hiding; well lit, organized and on display.  Sounds like a dream come true! 

 

To set up a consultation appointment, please contact: 

 

Kellie Burke Interiors 

993A Farmington Avenue 

West Hartford, CT 06107

T. 860.232.9128

Wedding Season Is Upon Us!

Spring is coming and that means one thing, wedding season is upon us!  At Kellie Burke Interiors we know that every modern bride has a lengthy to-do list, and one thing we’d be happy to help with is the bridal registry.  

The first step with bridal registries is to sit down with your fiancé and talk about what kind of lifestyle you will have as a married couple? Will you be frequent entertainers, with your home always open to friends and family? Will you be casual or formal? Once you have determined the type of lifestyle you will have a good idea of what items and products you will want to register for.  We recommend that, when registering, you focus on high quality basics. These kind of items will last you for years and will allow you to mix and match trends in as your tastes and styles change. 

A great option for tableware is Vietri.  Vietri is a fabulous line because it is versatile. It is suitable for everyday use, dishwasher and microwave safe. It also sets a beautiful table, perfect for large family dinners, as well as includes many, many serving pieces, all making it ideal for the entertaining couple. We love the Bianco and Incanto lines; Bianco is your classic white tableware. With simple, clean lines it is great for a couple with modern or classic style. It also allows for trendy colors or patterns to be mixed in, and of course, Vietri has both.  Incanto, also white, is slightly more formal than Bianco, as each piece has a texture or surface pattern. Elegant details such as scalloped edges, fluted bowls, lace and baroque details make it perfect for a couple who loves design details or enjoys more formal entertaining.

In keeping with our love for basics in white, we recommend registering for white sheets and towels; we love the clean, fresh look that they give a space.  For sheets suggest Legna classic sheets in cloud white (don’t forget, 2 sets!) and for towels we like to wrap ourselves in Abyss 100 percent cotton in white (also Oprah’s favorite). 

A few more tips to keep in mind: Make sure to vary your price points to keep options available for all guests. And, your guests will want to give you something that you will remember them by (the vase from Aunt Sally, a beautiful monogrammed sheet set from your sister –in-law). A good way to do that is to register for unique items at a smaller boutique store with a personal service. In addition to giving you the attention that you deserve, it will also give your guests a pleasurable experience!

Vietri: Irresistibly Italian

At Kellie Burke Interiors we strongly believe in “designing for your lifestyle”. We feel that the spaces we design should feel well traveled, lived in and kid friendly.  No more “plastic living rooms” and off limits spaces and accessories.  When we had the opportunity to carry Vietri dinnerware, we were delighted that they share the same philosophy.  Vietri dinnerware is high quality dinnerware imported from Italy, however, it is meant to be used for every day. 

The days of fine china and cut crystal stemware are over.  Modern brides and young families today do not share the same lifestyle as their parents and previous generations did; today we want classic elegance for everyday use at a great price.  And that is exactly what Vietri offers. 

They have a vast variety of dinnerware, stemware and linens, and their line even extends into linens and home décor.  With the variety of selection that they have there surely is something for everyone. Our favorite is the Incanto line, which encompasses a variety of shapes. There are ridges and stripes, and scallops and ruffles.  The line is made from black clay with a white glaze over it, which gives all of the pieces an antiqued look. Because the dinner plate differs from the salad plate, which differs from the bowl, it adds visual interest whether combined in a table setting or used alone for more casual dining.  The best part? Dishwasher safe! Perfect for a busy young couple, a growing family, or anyone who doesn’t want to hand wash any longer. 

For those with more simple, modern tastes, we recommend the Blanco line, which features clean, simple lines.  Shown here in white, it comes in a variety of colors which allows you to mix and match and achieve the perfect look for you.  

We love the wide color selection because, at Kellie Burke Interiors, we love starting off with a crisp white table, and then adding in the trends and colors as desired.  Rather than doing an entire table in a single trend, the option to add it in or subtract it, and to mix and match ensures longevity and many, many options.