Why Custom Furniture is Delayed: Furniture Shortage 2021

You and your interior designer have just chosen the stunning custom furniture that will fill your new space. All that’s left now is to wait patiently for its arrival so your dreams can come to life. But how long should it take for this furniture to be delivered? And what happens when you receive a notification that your furniture is going to be delayed?

Read on to learn more about how long it takes for furniture to get delivered and why it’s been taking a bit longer to receive your custom furniture lately.

How Long Does It Take to Get Furniture Delivered?

You may be wondering to yourself, “Why does furniture take so long to deliver?”. We understand how stressful it can be waiting on your beautiful custom furniture to arrive. You just want your new space to come together, and that comfortable couch on backorder is calling your name.

So, how long does it take to get furniture delivered? This truly depends on a number of factors, including, but not limited to:

The store you ordered from
The type of furniture ordered
The level of customization
The current store inventory

From some, you may receive your furniture within the week. For others, it may take a few weeks to deliver. With an interior designer like Alisha Taylor, you’ll have a much clearer estimate of delivery times. Her expertise and relationships in the design industry have given her insight into typical delivery times for a variety of custom furniture manufacturers.

You may have recently learned, however, that your custom furniture is arriving much later than the initial estimate. There’s a reason for that — the furniture shortage of 2021. Keep reading to learn more about this shortage and why it’s impacting delivery times of your furniture.

Furniture Shortage 2021

Many have seen a significant increase in furniture delivery times in 2021. While originally you may have seen delivery times of days to weeks, many homeowners have suddenly received notifications that their custom furniture will arrive in a few months.

While this can be beyond frustrating after all the time you’ve invested into creating your dream home, there’s a reason (or two) behind this delay.

To start, there are normal furniture delays that can occur, even when a shortage isn’t happening. These can be due to the level of custom designs you requested for your furniture or a single delayed shipment that pushed your furniture delivery back. However, there are much larger factors at play that contribute to the furniture shortage of 2021.

Some furniture deliveries are still trying to catch up from the unexpected Suez Canal blockage that happened at the beginning of the year. This blockage caused a major backup in deliveries for furniture manufacturers and stores around the world. Unfortunately, some of those stores are still trying to catch up.

And, of course, COVID-19 is a major source of the 2021 furniture shortage. Many manufacturers shut down production during the high points of the pandemic to avoid a massive outbreak. However, these shutdowns have caused an exponential delay in furniture delivery. With the ongoing spread, many of these companies are still struggling to safely return to in-person work and fulfill orders.

Additionally, supply chains are having a hard time meeting demands overall. During the pandemic, online shopping caused a huge uptick in orders — including furniture. Some homeowners used the time inside to reimagine their spaces, leading to an increase in furniture orders with no manufacturers to meet those demands.

Unfortunately, the combination of these factors may mean that the gorgeous wood kitchen table you just ordered may not make it in time for the holidays. Luckily, there are a few ways that you can navigate these delays with the help of Alisha Taylor.

How to Navigate Delays

Interior designers have the expertise needed to carefully navigate these furniture delays. Over the years, Alisha Taylor has developed strategies to help her clients accelerate the furniture delivery timeline.

Utilize Vendor Connections

When it comes to receiving the furniture of your dreams, having the right connections is essential. Alisha Taylor knows just what vendors to contact to find the perfect pieces for your home and may have the opportunity to receive them at an expedited time. These vendors will also be able to provide a more accurate estimate of delivery time before you even place an order so you can better understand what the finalized interior design timeline will be.

Check In Regularly

Once you have these connections, utilize them! Our team checks in regularly with furniture vendors to see where your order is and how the timeline may have changed. Vendors are often more willing to be transparent with interior designers they have a strong working relationship with. You’ll gain a much clearer picture of when your home will finally be finished by communicating regularly.

Find Smaller Venders

Unfortunately, major vendors are often hit the most by furniture delays. Since they tend to receive larger quantities of orders, they may fall behind faster than a smaller vendor. They likely will also be waiting a bit longer on deliveries as they may order some furniture in bulk. Working with smaller vendors can speed up your furniture delivery timeline and may even give you access to higher-level customization options.

Have a Back-Up Plan

If all else fails, having a back-up plan never hurts! This may mean investing in a readily-available office desk until your luxurious custom one arrives. It may not be exactly what you were hoping for, but it will allow you to use your space until your order arrives. Work with us to determine the best course of action should you receive a delivery notification that your furniture won’t arrive until well into the new year.

Design Stunning Furniture with Alisha Taylor

A furniture delay shouldn’t stop you from achieving the home of your dreams! With Alisha Taylor on your side, you can still design the furniture you need for your space. Her expert knowledge of the industry can help you overcome some of these delays and receive your breathtaking finishing pieces a little sooner.

Contact Alisha Taylor Interiors today to learn more about custom designing your furniture and how you can get started today!

Architects & Interior Designers: Benefits of Collaboration

When designing the home of your dreams, you’ll want a trusted team to bring your ideas to life. This team should include architects and interior designers with the experience to create the space you’ve been envisioning. You may even be wondering, “Can an architect and interior designer work together?” The answer is yes! In fact, your chosen architect and interior designer should collaborate effectively to ensure that your requests are met. Read on to learn more about the benefits of architect and interior designer collaboration.

The Role of an Interior Designer

To guarantee that your home is as beautiful as possible, architects and interior designers step in to provide expert advice on structure and design. Interior designers plan, decorate, furnish, and manage the look of a room or home. With Alisha Taylor as your interior designer, you can rest assured that careful attention will be paid to every element from cohesive color schemes to stunning wood furniture to natural lighting. We’ll coordinate with your trusted architect to build out rooms and make your dream home a reality.

The Role of an Architect

An architect’s role is to create functional spaces that meet the needs of clients and work within the home’s structure. Alisha Taylor will work with your architect to determine the site location and size as well as design rooms and accessories such as windows, doors, closets, staircases, and more. Your architect will also coordinate with your interior designer to ensure that the design is properly implemented.

Collaboration Between Architects and Interior Designers

When architects and interior designers collaborate effectively, magic happens in your home. We’ve outlined just a few of the many benefits that come with the collaboration between architects and interior designers.

1. Creativity

Architects and interior designers collaborate to provide a creative space that is both breathtaking and functional. Each member brings a unique skill set to the table, including an interior designer’s eye for design and an architects’ practical knowledge of how a space will be built out. They’ll take your design ideas and create a stunning home for your family with its own unique flair. Creating a home you love takes these experts working together from start to finish.

2. Efficiency

When architects and interior designers work together, they can save you time and money on your project. The architects’ expertise in construction translates to the architects’ ability to make changes quickly during the design process before building occurs. You’ll also avoid having the architects redo work that was done by an interior designer — this leads to cost savings.

3. Expertise

The combined experience of architects and interior designers is unmatched. Alisha Taylor alone has almost 20 years of experience under her belt. Bringing these two experts together gives you the opportunity to work with professionals who know exactly how to design and build a home that exceeds your expectations.

4. Timely construction

When architects and interior designers work together to build out your home, you can expect timely results according to an agreed-upon construction schedule. Accountability is an essential part of meeting deadlines, and working together is a great way to accomplish just that. Getting your project done quickly and efficiently is a big win for architects, interior designers, and their clients.

5. Satisfaction

When architects and interior designers work together on a project, they should collaborate with you from start to finish — this builds trust within the team. When you have architects and interior designers working together on your home, you’ll know that your project will be built to the architects’ specifications and an interior designer’s attention to detail. Ultimately, working with a team that you trust will increase your chances of receiving the home you’ve been hoping for.

Make Your Dreams a Reality with Alisha Taylor

In addition to outstanding interior design expertise, Alisha Taylor has all the connections you’ll need to hire the right architect for your home. Our team at Alisha Taylor Interiors can provide you with recommended architects based on your design expectations and allotted budget. Since Alisha Taylor already recommends these experts, she’ll easily be able to work alongside these architects to create your dream home.

Contact Alisha Taylor today to learn more about the design process and get started building your next home!

How Alisha Taylor Interiors Blends with the Sherwin-Williams 2022 Colormix Forecast

After Sherwin-Williams had announced their Colormix Forecast for 2022, we found the collection spoke directly to our team here at Alisha Taylor Interiors.

Sherwin-Williams’s 2022 Forecast is a collection of 40 hues separated into four palettes encompassing the acronym “MODE”: Method, Opus, Dreamland, and Ephemera. “There is so much more to color than meets the eye. It’s a part of our identity. It moves us. It has the power to change the very essence of everything it touches. Color can set a mood, create a conversation, soothe and ground us. Through color, we navigate our world, understand it more deeply, and lend it our personal touch,” (Sherwin-Williams, www.sherwin-williams.com, 2021).

“MODE” is inspired by balance and transition, and the thought that all is ever-changing. Sherwin-Williams describes the palettes to be all about warm neutrals, bold metallics, organic greens, and nostalgic reds. The 2022 Colormix Forecast is especially exciting for us because it is a perfect blend of our staffs’ personalities. As each palette was announced, we were shocked by how perfectly our team fits into this collection.

METHOD

Sherwin-Williams describes their Method palette as, “Nature’s processes, the gentle acts of becoming, show themselves in a collection of organic neutrals and tonal luxury. This palette’s earthiness and rich warmth—with its sepia softness—balance the lush refinement of art deco silhouettes on the radical raw edge of 1980s postmodernism.”

This palette fits our Marketing Director & Office Manager, Rebecca Rudd, so perfectly because she possesses the softness & warmth of neutrals while balancing refinement and structure to complete the modern organic Method palette. Although Rebecca does not design for us, she keeps us grounded and works intentionally on the marketing side of Alisha Taylor Interiors.

OPUS

Sherwin-Williams describes their Opus palette as, “Color creates movement, composing a unique masterwork of dynamic transitions and stirring rhythms. This palette of dusky deep tones and unexpected accents was created to be a new kind of classical, to set drama and emotion to the art of good style, and to never, ever fade into the background.”

This palette fits our Creative Designer, Justice Cook because she truly has a deep sense of self and enjoys formulating meaningful connections with others. Her darker, edgier side of creative expression plays on the bold & dynamic hues of the Opus palette. She is extremely talented and brings the classical drama of design to the Alisha Taylor Interiors’ team!

DREAMLAND

Sherwin-Williams describes their Dreamland palette as, “The fullness of living, of existing just as we are, meets the vernal sweetness of bud and bloom, of life-giving energy at the start of a new season. Set yourself adrift in a fantasy realm of pearlescent tones, new-growth greens, and lavish pinks, and tend to a space where fresh ideas flourish.”

This palette seems as though it was personally designed for our newest Junior Designer, Madi McNeal. The soft and romantic tones appeal to her compassionate and bubbly personality while complimenting her peaceful energy. Her youthful perception and darling creativity are the perfect addition to our Alisha Taylor Interiors team!

EPHEMERA

Sherwin-Williams describes their Ephemera palette as, “Honoring the timelessness of sleek and functional midcentury modern design, this palette is a play on primary color—an evolution of bygone basics from fleetingly familiar to forever loved. Each shade is carefully chosen to evoke the fond remembrance of what once was and the unwavering optimism of what could someday be.”

This palette fits our incredible Junior Designer, Marti Diehl because she offers our team the most wisdom and experience while influencing transitional, modern design. Marti has grown with the Alisha Taylor Interiors’ team for over six years, which plays along with the representation of evolution in the Ephemera palette. Her timeless and functional design has become a signature impression at Alisha Taylor Interiors!

MODE

“A way of being, of doing, of embracing the style of the moment. When the life we know becomes something brand-new, we adapt, grow, and settle into an entirely new way of existing. This is your invitation to do so creatively, with intention, in a way only you know how.”

Alisha Taylor, Owner and Design Director, is the perfect blend of all four Colormix Forecast palettes. Her interior designs and lifestyle are driven by intentional actions, unique transitions, energized ideas, and timeless design. Inspired by growth and creativity, Alisha embraces a new way of being while exploring beyond the familiar.

Like “MODE”, Alisha curated a team that blends beautifully and can grow from the past, embraces the present, and transition into the future. This Colormix Forecast directly speaks to us and we couldn’t be more excited to start 2022 with curated colors that reflect the team at Alisha Taylor Interiors.

Modern Farmhouse Interior Design Guide: 9 Tasteful Ideas

The time has come — you’re ready to design the home of your dreams! You may be struggling to choose between a more traditional home style or a modern look that matches current trends. Why not blend them together? The modern farmhouse is a stunning combination of vintage and contemporary that may just be the perfect home style for your family. And with an interior designer like Alisha Taylor on your side, you’ll have no problem bringing this dream to life. Read on to learn more about the must-have modern farmhouse interior design elements.

9 Modern Farmhouse Interior Design Ideas

Ready to start planning your modern farmhouse? Alisha Taylor has the expertise needed to evaluate your lifestyle and choose the following design elements that will work best in your new home.

Open Floor Plan

The modern farmhouse interior design is all about open spaces. This includes a luxurious open floor plan. An open-concept space eliminates the separation of kitchen and living areas, blending the rooms together in a continuous flow. This is an ideal choice for homeowners aiming to entertain regularly as there is plenty of space for guests to mingle.

Vaulted Ceilings

In line with wide-open spaces, vaulted ceilings are a staple feature of modern farmhouse interior design. These ceilings have a way of making your home seem more spacious with their rustic and lofty feel. They can be constructed to match the rest of your interior design for a seamless look in your home.

Wide Plank Floors

Flooring can make or break a room. Modern farmhouse interiors often boast a wide plank flooring — and there’s a reason for that. This floor option creates the illusion of a larger room, adding to the open space concept of the modern farmhouse. In addition, the wide plank is offered in neutral wood tones that match the classic colors of the common modern farmhouse interior design.

Natural Lighting

Natural lighting is just another part of the modern farmhouse charm. Between the open floor plan and vaulted ceilings, there is ample opportunity to include natural light in your space. Add massive floor-to-ceiling windows in your living room or include a stunning circle-top window above your office desk and bask in the sunlight as it fills your space.

Reclaimed Woods

Reclaimed wood is a common characteristic found in modern farmhouse interior designs. This highly sought-after wood is a gorgeous design element that adds a touch of rustic flair to a modern farmhouse. Additionally, this sustainable wood is an incredibly durable option for long-lasting furniture.

Modern Furniture

The modern farmhouse-style furniture is just that — modern. Your furniture will play on the classic elements of a farmhouse with a present-day twist. This may mean taking the traditional farmhouse dining bench and turning it into a luxurious seating arrangement renovated with the coveted reclaimed wood. Modernized furniture will keep the elements of a farmhouse that many homeowners adore without losing touch with contemporary trends.

Nature-Inspired Decor

The modern farmhouse interior design takes elements from nature and brings them to life in your space. That’s why nature-inspired decor is such a prominent feature of many modern farmhouses. As you prepare to select decor with us, search for elements that will add this pop of nature to your space.

Vintage Elements

Part of what makes the modern farmhouse interior so unique is the vintage elements that are laced throughout the home. The charming vintage decor adds a hint of rustic character to an otherwise modern space. It’s a top choice for homeowners looking to add a touch of history to their homes.

Neutral Tones

Choosing the colors for your space can be overwhelming. Should your countertops be a unique color that will make your kitchen pop or should you select a more classic design? In general, the modern farmhouse interior design tends to stick with neutral tones. Colors such as whites and light greys can add to the modern feel of your farmhouse while still allowing the vintage elements to shine.

Design Your Dream Home With Alisha Taylor Interiors

Ready to design the modern farmhouse of your dreams? It’s time to contact Alisha Taylor Interiors! For almost 20 years, Alisha Taylor has been working her magic on luxury custom homes in the Scottsdale, AZ area. She has the knowledge needed to handle the construction and interior design process of your beautiful new home. Let Alisha Taylor and our team create your ideal modern farmhouse and enjoy life-long memories in your new home.

Meet Alisha Taylor

Meet the magic behind Alisha Taylor Interiors! Alisha has been running her design studio in Arizona for almost 20 years and has been recognized for her award-winning designs locally and nationally. Enjoy an interview with Alisha Taylor and learn what made Alisha Taylor Interiors what it is today!

1. How did you get started with Alisha Taylor Interiors?

I graduated with a four-year design degree and got hired by the same university to teach their AutoCAD course to design and construction management students. Quickly I became a point of contact for builders and homeowners who needed plans drawn and designs drafted. After two years of teaching, I went out on my own to meet the design needs of many builders in the area. I also give credit to a fabulous 6th-grade teacher who inspired me to be a designer or architect someday.

2. What sets you apart from other interior designers?

We are organized in how we accomplish a design. Design is a creative process, but we use very structured systems and processes behind the scenes to stay on task and on time to get the best design for our clients.

3. How has your style evolved?

With each project and client, there is something to learn & appreciate thus I incorporate into my business and design style.

4. When designing a room, what is the most important factor for you?

Layering! It’s why clients hire a designer. If you just need a piece of furniture, there’s plenty of furniture stores that can help with that. But layering in each detail, not just the sofa but also the pillows, the drapes, the soft area rug, the textured coffee table, drink table, the sculptural lamp, and the list goes on… it’s all about looking for ways to layer, create interest in a room and capture the clients’ style through those layers.

5. Where do you get your inspiration from?

I fangirl over many other designers around the world, follow their work and attend seminars and conferences where I know I can learn from them. Also, I am constantly inspired by the world around me, whether it’s staying in a fun hip boutique hotel in downtown LA during a quick weekend getaway with my husband, walking the art galleries near my office, or checking out a new restaurant, design is everywhere… I can’t turn it off.

6. What was the best piece of design advice you’ve ever received?

Listen. I read an article in a design magazine years ago when I was just starting on my own about a lovely design firm in Atlanta that had gorgeous pictures of a client’s home, and the entire article was about the designer listening to what the client wanted. I have heard that advice again and again since and it’s something that I continue to bring to each project. The homes I design are not my home, they are my clients’ homes, it needs to reflect who they are and there’s no better way to know what that is than to listen.

7. What are you looking forward to in the next coming years?

We have a fabulous team, a fabulous office, and great clients….I’m excited to see my company continue to elevate and to refine & sharpen our skills as we continue to tackle larger and more challenging projects. I had a builder recently tell me that my company and design team was an “A Team”. I politely thanked him and let him know that pretty soon we will be his “A+ Team!”

8. If you weren’t the Owner & Design Director of Alisha Taylor Interiors, what would you be doing?

My geeky side is going to come out here….I would be teaching high school math. I love teenagers and I’m a total nerd when it comes to mathematics. Math is something many kids feel they aren’t good at, but it’s because they haven’t seen how powerful and useful it is and will be in their lives. I’d love to teach kids, not just math skills to pass a class, but to see how math helps them in life and that it’s something they can be good at!

9. What’s your definition of success?

Ending each day with a smile is my definition of success. For me, it’s not about money or a job title, it’s about enjoying the journey and the people around me. I have a great team around me at work, I enjoy the projects and clients I work for, and I absolutely adore my husband and the time we get with our children as they grow up and become adults themselves.

10. What three words describe you the best?

Kind, Creative & Honest

11. What advice would you tell your younger self?

I would tell the younger Alisha to give herself a little more grace, to breathe a bit, and ensure that amazing things are ahead.

12. What did you have to learn the hard way?

I can’t control everything! I know, I know…it sounds silly, but I truly did have to learn this one! Back in 2007, I went through a divorce and was a single mom of 4 young kids, while running my own design business. Then before I could even get my bearings as a newly divorced single mom, the housing market crashed and almost no one was hiring a designer. I went through many humbling experiences during those years to hold onto my business, while trying to create and maintain a happy home for my kids. Now, 14 years later, I’m much better at not sweating the small stuff, and seeing what is not in my control is not worth my stress and anxiety.

We strive to enhance our clients’ lives by not only creating beautiful interiors for them but by keeping the design process understandable and efficient through a systematic method that allows them to visualize and be excited about their designs. Schedule a consultation with Alisha Taylor Interiors to get started on your custom home design!

Behind the Design: BELLA VISTA ESTATE

We’re so excited to announce that our Bella Vista Project’s Design Book is complete! The project is now fully designed with exact measurements and drawings carefully illustrated, and ready to officially begin the remodeling process.

We sat down with our Junior Designer, Marti Diehl, to get some insight on what we can look forward to as this remodel progresses!

THE BEFORE

The client wanted to create a different feeling in their home. They have lived in this home for several years already and done some minor remodeling but had never got it to a point where they felt like it really made them feel comfortable and cozy. They also wanted to change or move some spaces to better meet their needs as a family.

THE DESIGN

I loved the process we went through to construct a better floor plan in the mudroom, pantry, kitchen, and dining nook spaces. There was a lot of room to work within this home, so we proposed some unique and purposeful spaces that are very custom to their needs as a busy family. For example, there are two pantries in the kitchen: one for the kids and one just for the mom. She’s so excited to have a very pretty space in the kitchen that her kids won’t even have to enter because it’s just for her.

WE CAN’T WAIT FOR…

I’m excited about the transformations that will happen in their new kitchen and great room space, as well as the primary bathroom! The kitchen is going to be reoriented to face their newly redone backyard (which is gorgeous). The primary bath will have a total upgrade with a much more open concept, a door to a private patio, a beautiful freestanding bathtub, and even a hidden makeup counter that was very important for our client to have in her space.

Be sure to check back in for the Bella Vista Project’s progress! We’re so excited to watch this project transform and present our clients with their luxury custom home! At Alisha Taylor Interiors, our clients and their satisfaction are our top priority, and we make sure to understand your ideal design vision to bring your dream home to life. We take pride in listening to your wants & needs and pay attention to every little detail to deliver the best results.

What to Expect at Your First Kickoff Meeting with Alisha Taylor Interiors

Congratulations, you’re ready to design with us! Right off the bat, we love getting together for a Kickoff Meeting to determine your expectations, design desires, lifestyle & priorities. This is also the time where we educate you on our procedures and processes, and the expectations of our journey together!

Before jumping into the nitty-gritty, it’s important to be 100% honest with your interior designer about your needs & desires during this process. This is a VERY personal project of yours, and we want you to love the final result and the experience.

Come Prepared

Lifestyle & Day-to-Day Preferences

Look into what your current lifestyle entails. What do you find yourself doing from day to day, weekly, or even on vacation? Do you have a routine? Do you host and entertain guests at your home? Understanding your lifestyle will allow us to formulate solutions, layout & materials that will best fit your home and the way that you live. We’ll ask you lots of questions about this but if you have thought this through before our kickoff meeting the conversation seems to flow smoothly and we can get at the right info more efficiently.

Describe Your Dream Home

Come to your Kickoff Meeting with your design priorities in mind. We like to ask this right off the bat, so we can make sure your priorities are our focus before designing your home. Perhaps your design priority is to have a personal and cozy feel, or maybe a luxurious sense with custom-made pieces. Or let’s say you prefer to entertain your guests, or your space to be functionally driven instead. It’s important to describe what you would like your home to look AND feel like. We use this information to decide on a creative direction based on your priorities and the vision you seek for your custom dream home.

Inspiration Photos

Although we design custom homes and develop very personalized designs for each client, we still request inspiration photos that you are drawn to. This helps us make sure what you’re verbally describing matches what you visually are attracted to. These inspiration photos can be as broad or as detailed as you like, such as an entire kitchen concept or a specific cabinet handle. These photos can also represent the color palette you are most drawn to. A few great resources for inspiration photos are on Instagram, Pinterest, Houzz, and our website. Collect as many as you can, we’ll take whatever you have whether it’s 5 or 500. Having these inspiration photos available at your Kickoff Meeting will get our team started on brainstorming and architecturally visualizing your dream home.

The Kickoff Meeting is nothing to be stressed about! This meeting is just about getting to know you and the expectations of your custom home. Think of it as sitting down with friends having a fun conversation. We guide the entire meeting so there’s no stress on you. These meetings are fun! We get excited for each and every one of our clients because it’s such a personal and exciting experience, and we love making your dreams a reality!

Our interior design projects are individualized to create a true sense of place, reflecting the desires, personality, and style of the clients that put their home in our hands. Are you ready to see if your project is a good fit for the Alisha Taylor design team? Contact us here!

Gorgeous Guest House Floor Plans & Interior Design Ideas

Designing your guest home from the architectural floor plan to the very last finishing touches can be an exciting endeavor. However, it also can come with its own set of obstacles, such as knowing what type of floor plan to choose.

Should you select an open floor plan design and use interior features to section off spaces? Should the living room be extra spacious or small and cozy? With Alisha Taylor as your interior designer, you’ll have no problem figuring out the answers to all of these questions and designing a stunning guest home.

Read on to learn more about creating a luxury guest house plan.

Enhance Guest Experience With an Elegant Floor Plan

When it comes to choosing the perfect guest house plan, your guests should be at the forefront of your mind. This may be friends and family looking for extra privacy when they come for short visits or a long-term visitor that intends to move into your guest home for an extended stay. Knowing how your space will be utilized is the first step in selecting the right floor plan.

Once you’ve decided on the type of guest house plan you’d like to create based on your intended visitors, Alisha Taylor can guide you through the architectural process. This is where we’ll really take a look at the layout of the space and design your guest home plans. What size is the ideal guest home? Will you need a full kitchen to accommodate long-term guests? These are questions that we’d be happy to go over with you and design a floor plan that’ll work with your guest home priorities.

When designing your guest house plans, don’t be afraid to have your architect draft multiple choices. Alisha Taylor can relay your requests and work closely with your architect and builder to draft different guest house floor plans to pick from.

The final step in selecting a gorgeous guest house plan is to consider the interior design. Our team at Alisha Taylor Interiors can evaluate your needs and help you select an interior design concept, from stunning furnishings to captivating decor to complete your space.

Guest House Interior Design Ideas

As you establish your guest home interior design plan, consider the following ideas for creating a luxurious feel for your guests.

Incorporate Home Construction

This can mean incorporating that massive bay window or building shelves right into the wall for additional storage. The architecture of your home can be an interior design element itself, so make sure to consider these unique features before the guest home building process begins.

Include Secret Storage

Guest homes are often smaller than the main home on the property. With this in mind, it’s essential to utilize your space to the fullest extent. This may mean investing in furniture that doubles as a storage unit, such as an ottoman that can be both additional seating and linen storage. This storage style can be disguised as a purposeful design element that allows you to stow everything your guests may need.

Mix and Match Decor Elements

Blending contrasting textures or patterns can liven up your space and make your guest home feel more welcoming. Though matching features is a typical go-to for interior design, the differing elements can add a unique flair to your guest home and create the dream design you were hoping for.

Design Your Dream Guest Space With Alisha Taylor

Ready to design the guest home of your dreams? Alisha Taylor Interiors has the experience and knowledge to help you select the perfect guest house plan and welcome your guests into a beautifully designed space. Whether you’d like a mini replica of your main home or a completely unique design to your new space, our team can create a breathtaking guest home that your visitors will be lining up to stay in.

Contact Alisha Taylor today to learn more about the new build process and how you can begin the guest home design process!

Should Wood Floors Match? Guide to Fabulous Flooring

Hardwood floors are a trending luxury floor option that homeowners are incorporating into their jaw-dropping new homes. With so many breathtaking wood options, it can be a challenge to know which one will match your home. Is a patterned wood floor a necessity? Should your wood floors match throughout the house? Read on to learn all about contrasting hardwood floors and how to choose the right one.

Matching Vs. Coordinating Hardwood Floors

Though matching and coordinating are sometimes used interchangeably, they have quite different meanings when discussing hardwood floors.

If you’re looking for a solid hardwood floor design, matching may be the best choice. Matching hardwood floors means using the exact same hardwood floor throughout the entire house. Your living room floors will flow right into your kitchen floors seamlessly with a matching hardwood floor look.

In contrast, coordinating hardwood floors will create a stunning blend of differing floors. Though your contrasting hardwood floors won’t match exactly, they’ll definitely complement each other. A coordinating hardwood floor gives you the freedom to play around with different colors, textures, or designs.

Whether you choose the solid look or more contrasting hardwood floors, as your interior designer, Alisha Taylor Interiors will work with you to ensure that your hardwood floors meet your design expectations and create a cohesive look for your dream home.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Mixing Hardwood Floors

So, should hardwood floors match in your house? Not necessarily! If mixing hardwood floors is the design you’ve chosen, there are a few key do’s and don’ts that you’ll want to keep in mind.

Do:

Match Undertones. If you’ve chosen a lighter hardwood route, make sure to stay consistent with it. Mixing a lighter tone flooring with a darker tone in the next room can disrupt the harmony of your space. Your contrasting hardwood floors should transition smoothly from room to room.
Consider lighting. The lighting of your home, whether through unique fixtures or beautiful bay windows, can affect the look of your hardwood floors. Before installing your contrasting hardwood floors, make sure the differing colors still work together in any lighting.

Don’t:

Match furniture. We all love a beautiful wood furniture piece, but should the color be an exact match to your floors? This look may work if the furniture is more subtle, such as a smaller side table. However, matching larger pieces of wood furniture to your floor can create a muted monochrome look.
Use Untraditional Patterns. Choosing a more untraditional hardwood floor pattern can make the contrast between the different colors more apparent. If you’re hoping to seamlessly mix hardwood floors, try staying with the traditional plank look for a smoother transition.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Hardwood Floor

As your interior designer, we’ll assist you through the process of choosing your hardwood floors, but it doesn’t hurt to prepare yourself for this exciting step.

Decide on Tone

Before setting your heart on a certain hardwood floor, decide on a general tone for your space to ensure it matches. For a more open, modern feel, lighter wood finishes are the way to go. To achieve a more comfortable, homey tone in your space, you’ll want to take a look at darker finishes. These different colors of hardwood floors can make or break the tone of your home.

Choose a Pattern

Much like tone, the pattern of your hardwood flooring is an intricate design element that should match the style of your home. As you select your pattern, take into consideration the layout and texture you’ll want in your space. Is a hand-scraped floor the best choice? Would a chevron pattern work best with your home design?

Research Hardwood Floor Types

When it comes to selecting the type of hardwood floor, we will evaluate your lifestyle and provide options that will work best. A pet-friendly hardwood floor may be best if your furry friend enjoys following you around. A sturdier hardwood floor may need to be installed if you tend to have heavy foot traffic move through your home.

Hire a Professional

Hiring a professional will ensure that the installation is done properly. Luckily, when you work with us, we provide all the contacts you’ll need to find the best installation professional. With us, you won’t have to worry about reading hundreds of reviews to find the best flooring professional.

Enjoy Stunning Hardwood Floors with Alisha Taylor

Wow your guests with your beautiful hardwood floors, picked especially for you by your professional interior designer — Alisha Taylor Interiors! For almost 20 years, Alisha Taylor has been working her design magic on luxury homes in Arizona. Her creative mind and knack for technical elements make her one of the best interior designers for your home projects. Check out our team’s previous home designs for inspiration or contact us today to get started with the design process!

Our Podcast Interview with AFT Construction

I had the privilege to sit down with Brad Leavitt, with A Finer Touch Construction, to discuss the behind-the-scenes of designing a New Build Project and creating a Dream Team on the AFT Construction Podcast!

Listen in as I give my thoughts on educating and setting expectations with our clients. I explain why embracing the role of an interior designer as a facilitator is more important today than at any other time due to changes in the industry brought on by the turbulent circumstances of the last year and a half. Brad and I unpack the reality that “there’s nothing more expensive than a cheap bid.”

We discuss that our biggest challenge right now is simply educating a client on what to expect from the new build process. The market is absolutely bananas, and prices are always changing. The ideal client understands that there’s no set number when it comes to building their custom home. They understand that they are hiring the right team, not a number or a bid.

We really try to be upfront, honest, and transparent with our clients, whether it’s how we design or how we charge, and what the industry looks like. We design custom luxury homes every day, and the client doesn’t. So, when they’re coming to us looking for that right builder or keep talking about bids, we’re not afraid to pump the brakes on that conversation, educate them about trust and reputation in the industry, and how important it is to choose the right builder, not just the cheapest one.

In this podcast, we dive into much more about our processes and systems, our personal aesthetic, and how we are navigating today’s supply chain and the everchanging industry of interior design. At Alisha Taylor Interiors, our goal is to make each one of our clients feel at home in their living space. Through our personalized design process, we work to create homes that are unique, timeless, and reflective of the people who live in them.

Listen to the Podcast Interview here:

Interior Designer vs. Interior Decorator: Key Differences

When it comes to creating your dream home, the decorative elements of your space can make all the difference. However, you may be wondering whether you should be investing in an interior designer or an interior decorator to add the flourish your space needs to feel complete.

That’s right — despite popular belief that the two are interchangeable, there is a difference between an interior designer vs. interior decorator. This difference stems from the process involved in designing the home of your dreams.

Interior design is the process of understanding and creating a functional space from the start, incorporating both the architecture of the room and the decorative details in the design.

Interior decorating occurs after the architectural structure has been created and works with the existing flow of the room.

We’ll discuss the capabilities of an interior designer vs. interior decorator below to help you distinguish between the two and decide which interior extraordinaire to hire for your home.

Interior Designer vs. Interior Decorator

While an interior decorator has all the industry knowledge to exceed your home design expectations, an interior designer is able to take it one step further. Read on to learn a bit more about the key differences between an interior designer vs. an interior decorator.

Interior Decorator

If you’re looking for a simple room remodel to liven up your space, an interior decorator may be the way to go. But what is an interior decorator? Instead of constructing the architectural design of your space, an interior decorator focuses solely on the room’s existing functionality. Your interior decorator is skilled in the art of choosing the best fabrics for your drapes and essential wall decor that will spruce up your space. They can help you choose the luxury furniture that will fill your home and add a touch of flair to your interior design style. However, an interior decorator is limited in the extent of design they are able to complete since they are not a part of the home building process. Instead, they use their talents to design a home post-build.

Interior Designer

So, what is an interior designer? From the minute you decide to build a brand new home or re-invent your current space, an interior designer is a must-have part of the project. Your interior designer can not only play the role of your decorator, but they also have the knowledge and experience to incorporate the architecture of your space into the design plan.

When your interior designer joins the team, they consider the big picture of your space. They’re taking into account your lifestyle and how your home should function to best fit that. Instead of wondering how the furniture you’ve chosen will fit into a pre-existing room, your interior designer plays a part in designing the architectural layout of the room to increase functionality and match your vision.

Since an interior designer is such an integral part of the entire construction and design process, you’ll want to choose your interior designer right from the start. Working with Alisha Taylor means having access to an interior design guru and her incredible team of architects and builders.

Consider Alisha Taylor for Your Next Interior Designer

Hiring an interior designer opens up a world of opportunities to create the home you’ve been dreaming of. Alisha Taylor has the advanced skills and experience to make your home an absolute masterpiece, from the architectural layout to the very last picture frame on the wall. Check out our portfolio for inspiration before you give us a call to get started turning your designs into reality!

The Interior Design Process to Expect For Custom Homes

Our goal at Alisha Taylor Interiors is to make each one of our clients feel at home in their living space. Through our personalized design process, we work to create homes that are unique, timeless, and reflective of the people who live in them.

We strive to enhance our client’s lives by not only creating beautiful interiors for them but by keeping the design process understandable and efficient through a systematic method that allows them to visualize and be excited about their designs.

Read on to learn more about the interior design process you will experience working with Alisha Taylor Interiors.

The Interior Design Process

For nearly 20 years, we have honed our interior design process for luxury homes. We take your dreams and turn them into a beautiful reality. Our interior design process allows you to be involved every step of the way to ensure you are thrilled with the final results.

Let’s start at the very beginning and take a closer look at the Project Initiation Phase.

Project Initiation Phase

The project initiation includes the new client inquiry form, the initial client meeting, and the design kickoff meeting. This is the time when logistics are discussed, and visions are expressed.

Step 1: New Client Inquiry Form and Initial Client Meeting

The first part of the interior design process is filling out an inquiry form. This form will entail the type of project you are interested in (New Build, Remodel, or Interior Design) and logistics such as square footage and budget. We will review your form and provide you with the project proposal.

At the initial client meeting, we will take measurements of the spaces needed, evaluate the furnishings level, and take “before” photos of the existing home.

Step 2: Proposal/Design Kickoff Meeting

At the design kickoff meeting, we will discuss your lifestyle, style preferences, priorities, vision, and review inspiration photos.

We will use all the information we gather from the kickoff meeting to create a design that incorporates your unique vision and lifestyle.

Interior Design Development Phase

The interior design development phase is likely what you think of when you think about the interior design process. This phase includes interior design renderings and storyboards that are used to visually communicate each room’s design.

Step 3: Interior Design Concepts and Material Selection

Next, we will go room by room and talk about interior design concepts you are imagining.

With this information, we will present a storyboard for each room. An interior design storyboard like the one below showcases the different elements of a room’s design. It is an easy way to get an idea of what the finished room will look like before an interior design rendering is made.

During this step, we will also select quality materials such as quartz for kitchen countertops, high-end flooring, and paint colors to elevate the design.

Step 4: 3D Interior Design Renderings

We will present interior design renderings of each room for you to clearly envision the final product. These renderings are drawn to scale to create a realistic-looking model. All of the small details, including wall hangings, furniture, light fixtures, and more, are included in an interior design rendering.

Below is an example of a realistic 3D rendering we created for a client’s great room design.

Design Documentation Phase

The design documentation phase is an essential part of the interior design process because it’s when all of the plans are compiled into the Design Book.

Step 5: Floor Plans, CAD Elevations, and Ceiling Plans

During this phase, custom floor plans, CAD elevations, and ceiling plans will be carefully drawn to include in the Design Book. CAD elevations are computer-generated drawings of rooms as viewed from standing in the room itself. Ceiling plan drawings will show the interior of your home viewed from above.

Floorplans are like the blueprints to your custom home. They are drawn to scale and designed to show the relationship between different rooms in the house. Larger furniture pieces will be drawn to scale to see the organization of each space. Room sizes and wall lengths are noted and used in the construction process.

Step 6: Showroom Viewings and Material Selection

Next, we will take you to view showrooms and select more materials for the interior design process. We will work with you to decide upon materials that you love and work in your price range.

Step 7: Design Book

All of the design elements, materials selected, floor plan, 3D renderings, storyboards, and more will be compiled into the Design Book. We will spend time reviewing the final selections before the construction phase begins.

Construction Phase

So how does an interior designer fit into the construction process? An interior designer incorporates your lifestyle needs and aesthetic wants into the entire interior design process, including construction. We will share the plans we created with the architect and builder to ensure your needs and desires are met.

Step 8: Builder Reviews Design

After you approve the Design Book, we will review the designs with the builder to ensure they have a perfect understanding of the project. The builder will see what changes you want to make to your home and how the interior design will fit into the process.

Step 9: Site Visits

Throughout the construction process, we will conduct site visits to check in on the builder and the home. This will ensure that construction is on track and that your needs and desires are being met. You can rest assured that we will keep the process running smoothly.

Furniture/Furnishings Development Phase

The furniture development phase is when we source the custom and unique furniture pieces that will fill your new home.

Step 10: Furniture Layouts/Sourcing

We will present final furniture layouts and decide the placement of pieces in your space. This step is where the design begins to feel complete. Through 3D renderings and storyboards, we can communicate what your space will look like at the end of this process.

Furniture/Furnishings Project Management Phase

Step 11: Order Placement, Inspection, and Installation

Once agreed upon, orders will be placed for furniture and decor pieces. The goods will be received and inspected thoroughly to ensure they are in good condition. Then, the furniture and furnishings will be installed in your home. We will stage each room to create a balanced and elevated look.

Step 12: Reveal and Walk-Through

Finally! The time has come for the big reveal of your new home design. The interior design process is complete. You will do a final walk-through of your newly furnished home and see your dreams come to life!

Trust Alisha Taylor Interiors To Design Your Home

Now that you know the interior design process, it’s time to work with a professional interior designer. Our team at Alisha Taylor Interiors is ready to bring your vision to fruition. Our expertise and collaborative process provide our clients with the best possible experience.

Let us work with you to showcase your style and meet your lifestyle needs with our design services. Contact us today for more information!