Let’s Chat Countertops: Natural vs. Manufactured Stone In My Luxury Kitchen

When deciding between natural vs. manufactured stone for your kitchen countertop, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you make the right choice!

As interior designers, we assess your lifestyle and daily life patterns in the kitchen. We consider questions like how often you cook, whether you have young children or pets, and if you entertain frequently. Next, we evaluate your aesthetic preferences and the overall design concept of your dream kitchen. For example, we determine whether you prefer the unique variations and natural beauty of natural stone vs. the consistent appearance and wide range of colors available in manufactured stone. We also educate our clients on considering factors such as maintenance requirements, durability, and budget constraints when deciding on their countertop material. By asking these questions and carefully weighing the pros and cons of each option, with our help, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and preferences!

Here, we dive into the key attributes that define quality countertops and explore the ongoing debate between natural vs. manufactured options.

Natural vs. Manufactured Stone

Natural Stone Countertops

BlueSageEstate_Kitchen6 — An Example of Quartzite Island Countertops

Natural stone countertops offer a timeless elegance and unique beauty that can enhance any luxury kitchen. They come in a variety of options such as granite, marble, quartzite, limestone, and into exotic stones such as onyx and dolomite, each with its distinct characteristics and colors.

Natural stone countertops are incredibly durable and heat resistant, making them suitable for high-traffic areas like kitchens. However, they do require periodic sealing to maintain their integrity and prevent staining. That’s why it’s important for us to educate our clients about the maintenance expectation that comes with this specific material! Natural stone countertops can also be relatively expensive compared to other materials, and some varieties are more prone to etching, scratching, or chipping than others. Marble is probably the fussiest of the bunch and we are strategic as designers where and how we use this gorgeous natural stone material for countertops.

We like to use natural stone creatively and in areas that make a WOW statement. For example, our #BlueSageEstate kitchen island features a beautiful natural quartzite stone, while the perimeter countertops are a lovely contrasting manufactured quartz material. We were able to creatively provide these clients with a luxury high-end kitchen by balancing different materials for budget purposes as well as beauty.

Maintaining the pristine beauty of natural stone surfaces requires careful attention and the use of quality products specifically designed for these materials. Despite these drawbacks, the luxurious look and durability of natural stone countertops often make them a worthwhile investment for those seeking to elevate the appearance of their space.

Manufactured Stone Countertops

Unlike natural stone countertops that are taken straight from mother nature in its solid form, manufactured stone countertops are made from natural stone powders along with binding chemical ingredients combined to create a slab material.

These manufactured countertops offer a sleek and modern appearance with a wide range of colors and patterns to choose from. Some examples of manufactured countertops are porcelain, quartz & ceramic stone. Unlike natural stone, manufactured countertops are non-porous, making them highly resistant to stains, scratches, and bacteria growth, which is an advantage in kitchen settings.

Another perk of manufactured countertops is that they require minimal maintenance, as they do not need sealing like natural stone. However, manufactured stone can be more susceptible to heat damage than natural stone, so it’s necessary to use a barrier like hot pads to protect the surface from hot pots or pans. Many clients appreciate the combination of style, durability, and ease of maintenance that manufactured countertops offer.

Which Stone Should I Put in My Luxury Kitchen?

Our design firm specializes in creating stunning kitchens using a diverse range of materials, including both natural and manufactured stone. With our expertise in design, we offer our clients the flexibility to choose from the timeless beauty of natural stone or the modern elegance of engineered stone, ensuring that their countertops perfectly complement their unique style and preferences!

PROJECT REVEAL: #FamilyFunHouse

Every corner of our #FamilyFunHouse whispers the joy of modern farmhouse living

In the pursuit of creating their first dream home, our clients collaborated with our design team to create the #FamilyFunHouse —a place of style, durability, and boundless energy for their growing young family. Defined as a ‘fun fresh farmhouse,’ the design not only embraces a vibrant aesthetic but also prioritizes durability in every finish.

FARMHOUSE KITCHEN WITH A MODERN TWIST

The #FamilyFunHouse kitchen, with incredible features, acts as the heart of the home. Glossy painted cabinetry, a white cast iron Kohler apron front sink, and durable quartz countertops balance the modern style. The smooth wood ceiling beams, horizontal nickel-gap wall treatment, and captivating details like rift-cut oak cabinets add to the farmhouse feel in an elevated way.

Opening from the kitchen into the dining and great room, the main layout created a beautiful open concept. A focal point of the great room is the stone fireplace complemented by uniquely stylized built-in shelves by our team. The interconnected spaces became a hub of family life, combining style with functionality.

A BOLD WORKSPACE

We went all out designing this cool office space in the #FamilyFunHouse. Our goal was to mix modern elements with a rustic charm to create a bold yet super-inviting atmosphere. We added a bold statement through charcoal wall paint that matches perfectly with the custom built-ins, creating a dark surround in the space.

To add interest and bring the eye up, we threw in this eye-catching wood treatment on the ceiling that adds some height and plays with the stunning four-arm globe chandelier. The light wood floors give off a cozy feel that ties everything together. We balanced the rustic details with a sleek modern desk that’s the center of the show, making the workspace clean and sharp. An ornate rug and a cozy sitting area add a cozy touch.

While celebrating the farmhouse charm, our goal was to bring in some fresh, fun energy to make this office a dynamic and inspiring spot that breaks free from the usual office vibe.

PUTTING THE ‘FUN’ IN FUNHOUSE

Venturing into the basement, a space designed as an ‘activity central,’ features a full basketball court, movie theatre, arcade room, and a built-in playhouse. An incredible slide from the main floor to the basement offers the most extravagant entrance, ensuring every corner of the #FamilyFunHouse radiates joy and excitement. This new build transcends the ordinary, containing the essence of family life in a vibrant, durable, and stylish home!

The Key to Trusting Your Interior Designer

At Alisha Taylor Interiors, we ease our clients’ worries by following a streamlined design process led by an interior designer, ensuring a seamless and informative experience. However, the key to making your vision a reality lies in having an open and transparent relationship with your team. When clear and honest expectations are discussed at the beginning of the process, the benefits go beyond just making things look good – it extends to making your space work better for you, being more efficient, and creating an environment that truly suits your unique lifestyle.

Trust and open communication make decision-making smoother throughout the project. When expectations are clear from the start, potential misunderstandings are minimized, making the design process collaborative and stress-free. This approach saves lots of time and makes the experience more enjoyable for everybody!

EXPRESSING YOUR STYLE

One of the primary advantages of open communication is the ability to articulate your vision in detail. By clearly expressing your preferences, lifestyle, and design dreams, you provide your team with insights that serve as the foundation for a one-of-a-kind project. This enables them to craft a custom project that doesn’t just look good but also mirrors your personality and preferences, making it uniquely yours.

ADVANCED FUNCTION

Another significant benefit is taking full advantage of optimizing the functionality of your space. Transparent communication allows us, as your interior designer, a thorough understanding of your daily routines, needs, and desires. From clever storage solutions to smart room layouts, the design can be customized to elevate your lifestyle by combining creative aesthetics with utility.

Transparent communication ensures that every small aspect of your vision is carefully considered and executed with precision. Whether it’s choosing high-end materials or incorporating unique furnishings, the result is a space that is timeless and sophisticated.

Hiring an interior designer may seem daunting, but anyone can benefit from having a professional come in and add beautiful touches to your home or help with the process of building or remodeling. Reach out with any questions you may have about what we believe, what we do, or what you can expect from hiring Alisha Taylor Interiors.

Our Full-Service Concierge Procurement Service for Elevated Luxury Interior Design

As a full-service interior design firm, our team at Alisha Taylor Interiors takes pride in offering an all-inclusive procurement service that goes above and beyond our clients’ expectations. We understand that crafting an elevated living space requires a blend of creativity, quality, and attention to detail. Our full-service procurement service is designed to alleviate our clients’ stress, offering a ‘one-stop-shop’ that ensures every element within their custom homes is carefully considered and expertly placed revealing a turn-key experience.

What to Expect from Our Concierge Procurement Service

Careful Ordering Process for Custom Furniture

Following the conceptual & detailed design presentations, where we dive into the specifics of the full furniture design, and the proposal is approved, we then transition into the ordering process. This crucial step is done in-house by our Business & Logistics Director, Emma, to ensure that every detail discussed and specified in the design presentations is carefully noted.

Bi-Weekly Progress Updates for Informed Clients

Our clients can trust that their unique and made-to-order furniture pieces are being properly ordered through our trade-only manufacturers and will receive bi-weekly progress reports indicating the status of each item in the home. This allows our clients to be informed without the burden of coordinating the moving parts!

Unfortunately, this phase requires the most patience, but we promise it will be worth it! Custom furniture is not made with a magic wand (we wish!), talented artisans create your items, sometimes from scratch. It’s a labor of love for everyone and lead times can take up to 16 weeks because of the talented human hands making sure they get your furniture or workroom items absolutely perfect!

Top-Notch Handling and Inspection at the Warehouse

What sets our full-service procurement apart is the fact that all your furniture items will be shipped to our third-party furniture handlers, Fully Loaded Deliveries, ensuring top-notch service and attention to detail. EVERY SINGLE ITEM is carefully inspected after it arrives at the warehouse, and the item is stored in an air-conditioned, clean warehouse while it waits for the rest of the items to arrive.

Another advantage of our service is that we manage all damage claims and make every effort to address and resolve any issues that may arise. Most of these items are traveling from long and far, so sometimes they don’t always arrive in tip-top shape. Our team will organize repairs or re-orders and note the solution in our progress reports so that our clients are always in the loop!

A Detailed Installation for the Final Reveal

The wait is finally over! Once every piece reaches our warehouse, our team orchestrates a detailed installation with our delivery team. They expertly unbox, position, hang, and fluff each item in the home, aligning with the initial furniture plan discussed during the design presentations. Before our clients witness their new design for the first time, we conduct our own thorough quality inspection and add a touch of love to ensure everything looks perfect.

Our full-service procurement is the finishing touch to creating luxury homes that go beyond the ordinary. From the selection of custom furnishings to coordinating with talented craftsmen, we manage the entire process simplifying the journey of creating a custom home.

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.

We believe that your home is the one place you can escape to after a long day, a place to host and gather with family and friends, and a place that represents growth, memories, and stability. We do what we do in order to make your home beautiful and livable for the life you want to live within its walls.

Top 5 Arizona Home Builders for Luxury Custom Homes

Custom home builders play a pivotal role in the creation of luxury custom homes, offering a unique and personalized approach to the construction process. As interior designers, our collaboration with custom home builders is essential to the success of crafting unique, luxury living spaces. The teamwork between our design expertise and the builders’ construction proficiency ensures that every element of a luxury custom home reflects the homeowner’s personalized needs and lifestyle.

From the initial conceptualization to the final execution, the partnership between interior designers and custom home builders is a well-communicated “dance” that results in homes that meet and exceed the expectations of our clients. This process also allows for a perfect blend of architectural aesthetics and functional design elements, all while staying within our client’s expected budget & timeframe.

In this Builder Round-up, we celebrate the top five builders in Arizona whose commitment to quality, innovation, and craftsmanship has left a lasting mark on our industry.

Modern Splendor Homes

With over 20 years of construction experience, Matt Segerstorm, Owner & President of Modern Splendor Homes, started his first construction company in roofing at the age of 19 before transitioning to constructing luxury residential homes. Segerstrom expresses, “As the owners of Modern Splendor Homes, we take pride in delivering high-quality custom-built homes to our clients. Our focus is on ‘Building Livable Luxury.’” As a custom builder with a cost-plus transparent model, MSH ensures open communication and accountability for each of their projects. Segerstrom adds, “We provide our clients with a clear breakdown of costs and project expenses, ultimately delivering high-quality construction with a sense of assurance and trust in our work.” In addition to transparency, Segerstrom emphasizes that “assembling a team of skilled and experienced professionals who are dedicated to the project’s success are essential” and will contribute to an enjoyable building journey & beautiful home for our clients.

Photorealistic Rendering of #ModernFrenchHaven | Rendering by Cory Black Design

A Finer Touch Construction

With 29 years of experience in the construction industry, including 19 as a general contractor in Arizona, Brad Leavitt, President of A Finer Touch Construction, emphasizes his background in both commercial and residential construction has contributed to AFT’s success. Specializing in luxury residential projects, AFT Construction’s unique approach prioritizes customer experience & communication, integrating 24/7 online access to budgets, regularly updated schedules, and weekly videos for clients. The AFT Construction team attributes successful construction projects to detailed planning from the start. Leavitt adds, “It is part of our SOP to include an interior designer on every project, as well as the architect and landscape designer [at the beginning of the project]. These team members allow for projects to be correctly set up to optimize build time, and also create an accurate budget.”

#ModernSunset Project | Photo by Joshua Caldwell Photographic

Fenn Rogers Custom Homes

Brady Fenn, Vice President of Fenn Rogers Custom Homes, forged a remarkable decade-long partnership in the construction industry when he joined forces with Jeff Rogers’ team. Fenn’s roots in custom home building stem from his upbringing, where he worked alongside his father in the family business. Specializing in custom home building and remodeling, Fenn states that Fenn Rogers Custom Homes distinguishes themselves by “taking a very hands-on approach to our projects. We have a small business feel while still being capable of running several multimillion-dollar projects.” Fenn also emphasizes “the importance of a unified team effort for success, with builders, designers, architects, subcontractors, vendors, and clients all aligned towards a common goal—a principle that contributes to a successful construction project.”

Photorealistic Rendering of #ClassicSomerset | Rendering by Pinnacle Conceptions

Phoenix Home Builder

Phoenix Home Builder places the unique vision of clients at the forefront of their process. Mike Larsen, President of Phoenix Home Builder, explains, “Our focus has been in the luxury custom home niche primarily in the East Valley for people that love to be the central hub and gather family & friends together. We have a proven process and a remarkable team that is highly trained in creating spaces and environments that foster connection and deeper relationships.” After nearly 30 years in the industry, Larsen’s firsthand experience in mastering the construction process has significantly contributed to the success of Phoenix Home Builder. He goes on to emphasize, “Building a great home is a team sport. The qualities we look for in the team are capable, creative, collaborative, and prioritizing having fun together,” which will result in an overall successful project!

#BlueSageEstate Project | Photo by Joshua Caldwell Photographic

Mike Oliver | Independent Contractor

Mike Oliver, an Independent Contractor, brings a personalized touch to every custom project. His approach involves seamlessly blending his architectural expertise with his desire for hands-on presence onsite. Oliver reflects on this process, stating, “The custom home industry is greatly diverse and unique. As a builder, I have never built the same house twice and I thrive on the variety and ability of making it personal to my clients.” Oliver believes that having trust in your team [architect, builder, designer] contributes to a successful construction project, and will make the custom home journey a pleasant one.

#FamilyFunHouse Project | Photo by Joshua Caldwell Photographic

As we navigate the details of each project, these top 5 builders—each with their unique approach and signature style—continually inspire us to raise the bar in our dedication to elevated design!

In this collaborative journey, this Builder Round-up serves as a celebration of accomplished partnerships and a testament to the impact that high-end builders can have on the luxury custom home-building process. Together, we are shaping the future of luxury Arizona residences, where innovation, craftsmanship, and personalized design come together to redefine luxury living.

PROJECT REVEAL: #BellaVistaEstate

Our #BellaVistaEstate remodel project effortlessly blends traditional charm with elegance

Introducing the stunning transformation of #BellaVistaEstate, where we turned a dated Tuscan-inspired space with disjointed layouts into a masterpiece of open-concept design and traditional charm. The homeowners’ vision was to revitalize their kitchen, maximizing spatial efficiency while implementing classic elements, like hardwood flooring and timeless cabinetry.

As interior designers, our mission is to seamlessly blend a modern open-concept layout with charming details. To achieve this, we reimagined the layout by introducing a larger island as the dynamic centerpiece, which fosters a hub connecting to the great room.

At the homeowner’s request, an exclusive “pretty pantry” was designed for mom’s use only. This delightful pantry, with floor-to-ceiling wallpaper and custom shelving featuring a pop of green, adds a touch of personality and elegance. The rustic window door not only enhances the aesthetics but also provides a unique glimpse from the outside – because who says pantries can’t have a little drama?

In the transformative redesign of #BellaVistaEstate’s primary bathroom, we undertook a bold approach to enhance both functionality and aesthetics. We replaced the outdated and bulky tub with a sleek stand-alone counterpart, instantly opening up the space and delivering a sense of modern sophistication. The revamped vanity now stands as a testament to thoughtful design, providing a balance between practicality and beauty.

The #BellaVistaEstate remodel demonstrates a beautiful marriage of contemporary and timeless appeal. The result is a home that meets the demands of modern living and also captivates with its classic charm. Stay tuned to get the exclusive details behind the redesign of this project and what architectural challenges go into a full remodel design!

Before we start installing countertops and shipping furniture to your door, we first want to assess your unique needs. While we use our expert interior design knowledge to beautify your space, we work hard to make it feel like YOU! We get to know you and your lifestyle to design a home that perfectly fits you. Hiring an interior designer may seem daunting, but anyone can benefit from having a professional come in and add beautiful touches to your home or help with the process of building or remodeling.

Reach out with any questions you may have about what we believe, what we do, or what you can expect from hiring Alisha Taylor Interiors.

Quality Furniture Designs Should Be a Priority in Your Luxury Home

A Comparative Analysis of Cheap vs Luxury Furniture

Explore why quality furniture designs should be a priority in your luxury home, and the essential distinctions between cheap and quality furniture. When it comes to furnishing your custom luxury home, the choices you make can significantly impact the overall aesthetic and comfort. The contrast between cheap, hastily assembled furniture and luxurious pieces crafted with intentional design planning is not about the price tag, but about capturing the essence of the items themselves.

How Cheap, Low-Quality Furniture Can Compromise a Design

Affordability can be a tempting factor when purchasing furniture; however, in the context of creating a luxury custom home, it is imperative to refrain from considering cheap furniture, as it jeopardizes the integrity of the design. Here’s how cheap furniture can compromise a space:

Quality: Cheaper furniture is often made with lower-quality materials, which can result in a shorter lifespan and the need for more frequent replacements. Investing in higher quality pieces may cost more upfront but can save you money in the long run.
Cohesiveness: Mass-produced furniture is often produced with cost efficiency in mind, which can result in a lack of cohesive design. When furniture pieces don’t work together visually, it can disrupt the flow of a room and make it feel chaotic & disjointed.
Sustainability: Again, inexpensive furniture is often made with cheaper materials and manufacturing processes, which can have negative environmental impacts. Investing in sustainable furniture options can not only benefit the environment but also provide a unique and thoughtful design element to a space.

The Artistry of Intentional Luxury Design with High-Quality Furniture

Luxury furniture is a tribute to the beauty of intentional design. Each component is carefully evaluated to add to a collective concept, producing a cohesive & complete story. Every aspect, from the materials used to the delicate features, is part of a bigger story that enhances the entire home. Investing in expert craftsmanship guarantees durability and a well-designed space that stands the test of time.

The craftsmanship of luxury furniture extends beyond the surface with an additional focus on functionality and comfort. Thoughtful ergonomic design transforms furniture into more than just decor; it becomes an experience. When investing in quality furniture designs, “the result is a unique piece that reflects the hand of a craftsperson, the quality standards of an industry leader, and the personal vision of each and every customer” (Hickory Chair, 2024).

The significance of a professionally designed furniture plan goes hand in hand with the emphasis on quality pieces. A crafted furniture plan not only complements the aesthetic vision of the home but also ensures optimal spatial utilization, creating a collective & sophisticated living environment. The integration of interior design expertise with high-quality furniture pieces elevates the overall space, transforming a custom home that seamlessly merges style, functionality, and luxury.

Our Advice to You: Choose Quality Over Cost in Design

The difference between low-cost, poorly designed furniture and high-end, intentionally planned pieces goes far beyond just surface-level appearances. The contrast is a testament to the level of dedication involved in creating a fully furnished space that is also expertly curated with thoughtful care. While choosing cheaper alternatives may seem like an attractive option, investing in quality and design ultimately will benefit you & your custom home in the long run.

At Alisha Taylor Interiors, we design with intention. We believe that your home should reflect your unique personality and style. That’s why we take the time to listen to your needs and create a personalized design plan that suits your lifestyle. Alisha Taylor Interiors sources the highest quality materials and works with trusted craftsmen to bring your vision to life. Our goal is to create a space that you’ll love for years to come, one that is both beautiful, functional, and timeless.

Vote for Us | 2024 ‘Luxe Interiors’ People’s Choice Awards

We have some exciting news! Drum roll please… a few of our latest New Build projects have been selected to participate in the 2024 Luxe Interiors People’s Choice Awards!!!! This is HUGE, this is on a national level! Whooo hooo! But….we need your help! You can vote for one of our kitchen designs and our interior architecture design each day (starting January 29^th, ending February 16^th). We are honored that it’s friends, fans, and clients like you who are part of our unfolding success story!

So GO VOTE!!! (see the projects and links below)

The Luxe Interiors + Design People’s Choice Awards will be based on results of online voting from the general public, that’s you!

Luxe People’s Choice is your platform to empower your preferences! Casting your vote ensures that the brands, personalities, and trends you love receive the recognition they deserve.

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE PROJECTS BELOW: (don’t forget, you can vote for each category up to once a day)

BEST KITCHEN – Blue Sage Estate

Eye-catching drama partnered with multi-generational family-friendly function defines this new build kitchen located in the up-and-coming luxury community of Somerset in Gilbert, Arizona. The barrel-arched beamed ceiling takes center stage pulling your eye up to appreciate the volume and drama then points to the various details and materials below.

BEST KITCHEN – Family Fun House

This darling light and bright farmhouse kitchen was designed for a fun young family excited to move into their first custom home. The design was kept clean and simple to help balance the chaos of young children and family life. Glossy painted cabinetry, a white cast iron Kohler apron front sink, and durable quartz countertops are all easy to wipe clean and all lend to the fresh farmhouse style.

BEST INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE – Modern Sunset

This soft-contemporary new build sits on the boulders overlooking the desert landscape of Scottsdale Arizona. In collaboration with principal architect, Scott Carson with Cosan Studio, the inspiration for the interior architectural details was about how to beautifully dance with Mother Nature herself. Featuring a 40-foot disappearing sliding glass door with unobstructed views of city lights and desert terrain, the great room is the very definition of interior and exterior living working together.

Participating in Luxe People’s Choice is not just about voting; it’s about being an integral part of a movement that celebrates and elevates the finest in the world of design. Your vote adds a unique perspective to the collective voice of enthusiasts who appreciate excellence in its many forms. Happy Voting!

Luxe Interiors + Design’s annual RED Awards recognizes and honors excellence & innovation for the best-designed new product introductions and the best residential architecture, interior design, built environment, and landscape architecture projects across the country. The Editor-in-Chief of Luxe Interiors + Design and a multidisciplinary panel of notable industry experts will review submissions and select winners.

Mastering the Use of Color in High-End Home Designs

As interior designers creating high-end home designs, mastering the use of color is a defining skill that can transform spaces into works of art. Achieving the perfect color palette requires understanding aesthetics, client preferences, and the spatial dynamics of each space.

The Study of Color Psychology

One key aspect of our approach to mastering the use of color is, to begin with a comprehensive understanding of color psychology. We recognize that colors inspire specific emotions and moods, influencing the overall ambiance of a space. In high-end designs, where luxury and sophistication dominate, we often choose a refined palette that includes deep blues, muted greens, and rich woods. These hues radiate elegance and create an atmosphere of grace and class.

Creating a cohesive color scheme is an art in itself. We carefully select colors that harmonize with each other, fostering a sense of unity throughout the home. This involves exploring complementary and analogous color combinations that enhance the overall aesthetic. We also pay careful attention to undertones, ensuring a consistent warmth or coolness that ties the elements of a room into a whole.

Creating Movement Through Textures

Texture is a powerful tool in mastering the use of color. To add depth and visual interest, we experiment with luxurious materials like brass, wood, and marble. The play of light and shadow on these textured surfaces enhances the impact of carefully chosen colors, contributing to the overall sense of luxury and sophistication.

While subtlety is often the hallmark of high-end designs, we also recognize the importance of bold accents. Strategic placements of bold-colored walls or standout pieces of furniture serve as focal points for personality and uniqueness in a design. This boldness becomes a signature element, making the space memorable & distinctive.

At Alisha Taylor Interiors, our mastery of color involves a delicate balance of psychology, harmony, and texture. By understanding the emotional impact of colors, creating cohesive palettes, and incorporating luxurious textures, we craft spaces that transcend the ordinary, leaving a well-thought-out & timeless design.

The Taylor Series: Our January Discoveries

As we move into the new year of 2024, we’ve released our January Discoveries —a curated collection of insights, trends, and noteworthy findings that promise to set the tone for a dynamic journey ahead.

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Interesting Piece to Read:

THE CREATIVE ACT: The Way of Being by Rick Rubin

Music producer, Rick Rubin, is known for creating a space where artists of all different genres and traditions can hone in on who they really are, and what they offer. He has thought deeply about where creativity comes from and where it doesn’t. He’s learned it’s about your relationship to the world, and that creativity has a place in everyone’s life. The Creative Act is a course of study that illuminates the path of an artist as a road we all can follow.

Episode to Tune Into:

THE INTERIOR COLLECTIVE | When Gap Meets Gucci: Livable Luxury with Brigette Romanek

Quiet Luxury is the buzzword in every marketing campaign and TikTok video these days. But the concept of mixing bespoke, one-of-a-kind pieces with quality, everyday items is here to stay. Joining us today is Brigette Romanek, founder, and principal designer of Romanek Design Studio. Brigette built her studio on the foundation that spaces should be fresh and functional, aesthetically provoking, and completely lived in. Tune in as Brigette breaks down how she achieves that livable luxury in every project–from quiet family homes to multi-million-dollar high-profile projects.

Dishes to Devour:

ROSEMARY GARLIC PULL-APART BREAD

Crafted from a straightforward, homemade dough infused with the aromatic essence of rosemary, this pull-apart bread weaves together layers of butter, garlic, cheese, and herbs. Baked to a glorious golden brown and served in an enticing pull-apart style, this bread captivates with its flaky texture and rich flavors. Anticipate the irresistible allure that wafts through the air as it bakes—truly an undeniable favorite.

Add-to-Cart Finds:

PALECEK Donovan 30″ Barstool in Gold

You’ve most likely noticed this barstool in our #BlueSageEstate & #ModernSunset projects because we were blown away by the quality and unique design. This PALECEK barstool features an antique gold finish metal frame and legs with a fixed upholstered seat and inside backrest. The outside backrest features cane matting, which is available in all PALECEK finishes. If you envision these barstools in your new custom home, reach out to us to start designing your furniture plan! They are sure to make a statement!

In exploring our January Discoveries, we embark on the rest of 2024 enhanced by the insights that will pave the way for a year filled with beautifully designed possibilities.

A Year in Review for Alisha Taylor Interiors

Join us in celebrating our Year in Review for 2023 characterized by creativity, dedication, and passion for luxury interior design!

We completed seven amazing projects.

In the whirlwind of 2023, our Alisha Taylor Interiors design firm achieved a remarkable accomplishment—completing seven stunning full-service furniture and New Build/Full remodel projects. We revealed to our clients the completed projects for #PinnacleCanyonRemodel, #PoshManor, #BellaVistaEstate, #BlueSageEstate, #DesertCharmRemodel, #ModernSunset, #FamilyFunHouse. We are so proud of the commitment from our builder & architect partners, sub-contractors, our install team at FLD, and of course, our team at ATI.

What sets our design process apart is the collaborative effort of our dedicated design and business team. In the design phase, I, alongside a junior designer (either Marti or Mia), craft the design for the interior and furniture selections. Emma, our Logistics & Business Director, takes charge of procurement details, ensuring a seamless process over the 4-6 months delivery timeframe. She also acts as lead and orchestrates the full installation day, collaborating with our Marketing Director, Rebecca. The two transform spaces into works of art, adding the final touches to make them reveal-ready. Rebecca then concludes the project with a professional photoshoot, capturing the essence of our clients’ beautiful homes.

We attended KBIS & High Point Market.

In a quest for inspiration, our design & business teams attended the KBIS Conference in Las Vegas and the High Point Market in North Carolina. These experiences allowed us to forge connections with innovative vendors and physically engage with the furniture pieces we love incorporating into our designs.

We celebrated a branding milestone.

Celebrating a significant milestone, we achieved over 10,000 followers on Instagram in 2023, a goal set in our ambitious Marketing Plan. This milestone signifies the growing community that shares our passion for interior design, and we express our gratitude to each follower who has joined us on this journey.

We welcomed our newest team member.

Welcoming Mia Schultz to our team was a highlight of the year! As a small but mighty team, we take pride in our collective efforts to turn our clients’ visions into realities, emphasizing aesthetics and functional details. We’re grateful to have Mia on our growing team!

We hosted our First Annual ATI Team Awards Night.

To cap off the year, we introduced a new tradition—the First Annual ATI Team Awards Night, held at the enchanting Wrigley Mansion. This evening of team appreciation allowed us to come together, savor a delicious meal, and celebrate the unique stories and accomplishments of each team member.

As we reflect on our Year in Review, we are grateful for the growth, connections, and shared successes that have fueled our passion for creating stunning spaces. Looking ahead, we are excited to carry this momentum into 2024, continuing to elevate the world of interior design with creativity, dedication, and a commitment to excellence!

Cheers to the New Year!

BEHIND THE DESIGN: #ClassicSomerset

Partnering with luxury builder, Fenn Rogers Custom Homes, and the distinguished architectural designer, Pinnacle Conceptions, our interior design firm, Alisha Taylor Interiors, is collectively shaping the vision for our #ClassicSomerset project, combining our expertise to create a truly exceptional luxury custom home.

Discover the ‘Behind the Design’ into the epitome of luxury with our latest new build #ClassicSomerset project that blends classic elegance with modern functionality. Our client’s vision came to life as we crafted a home that radiates sophistication and style.

Culinary Masterpiece: The Kitchen in Focus

The heart of this luxury new build is the kitchen, a masterclass in timeless design. A classic white palette, highlighted by brass hardware, creates a striking contrast. Shiplap and trim on the ceiling add a touch of intricate detailing, elevating the space to new heights. The kitchen’s focal point, a drywall hood, serves a functional purpose and adds a sculptural element to the space.

Every detail has been carefully curated, from the white perimeter cabinetry to the wood and navy finish on the island cabinetry, adding a pop of interest. Quartz countertops and a square tile backsplash complete the kitchen, creating a perfect sight of luxury.

Unveiling the Essence of #ClassicSomerset

In crafting our #ClassicSomerset project, we’ve combined innovative and recreational elements into the design, ensuring a home that caters to both luxury and leisure. With a golf simulator offering entertainment, the cozy reading nook invites a unique twist – a rock climbing wall, adding an adventurous flair to the tranquil space. Open-railing stairs are designed with exquisite metal and wood accents that guide through the different levels. The harmonious blend of materials adds a visual appeal, enhancing the overall aesthetic and providing a subtle yet impactful design statement throughout the home.

Our Promise to You & Your Luxury Custom Home

Step into our #ClassicSomerset luxurious new build and experience the seamless fusion of classic design and modern amenities, where every corner tells a story of elegance. At Alisha Taylor Interiors, we aim to make each 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 believe that your home is the one place you can escape to after a long day, a place to host and gather with family and friends, and a place that represents growth, memories, and stability. We do what we do to make your home beautiful and livable for the life you want to live within its walls.