The CKD Blog
Where Sarah, and sometimes Steve, share design projects, renovation advice, and other project-related insights.
Color Combinations That Work With Travertine Tile
Tuscan-inspired homes have almost always included travertine because of its soft golden tone (which matched those yellow walls). Style aside, however, I think its true popularity stems from the fact that it was an affordable upgrade material for flooring and bathroom tile.
The Story of Tile Installation Gone Wrong (With a Happy Ending)
One of the most significant line items for a bathroom renovation with a fully tiled shower is the cost of building the shower and installing the tile. It will be tempting to want to save money on the install by hiring an installer who will do the job for less and use less expensive materials… but is the savings worth it?
3 Myths About Renovating Your Home Before Listing
Steve and I always get asked, “Should I renovate my house before I sell it?” Our answer is: Proceed with caution when spending time and money fixing a house for the next owner. Today, I’m busting 3 myths about renovating before moving. I’m also sharing 5 tips to help you decide if renovating is worth the investment. Come take a look...
How Window Treatments, Textiles & Textures Make Your House Feel Like Home
Finding the right window treatments and textiles is still a large part of what I do — and honestly, is what makes a newly renovated house feel like home.
Top 6 Biggest Decorating Mistakes in Vacation Rentals
Vacation renters are all about the experience your property can give them. They want to vacation in a place that is more luxurious than their own home. When potential guests are looking for a rental, they want a place to enjoy their family, cook dinners, and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere.
Case Study: Beautiful Kitchen Refresh Using Our “Designer By Your Side” Service
She wanted a professional to bounce ideas off of, someone who could ensure she was making a wise investment and help her create a design that looks professionally done. She reached out to us to see if we could help. Yes, we can — with our new Designer By Your Side service!
3 Ways Renovating During Post-Pandemic Times Has Been a Struggle
Home renovations have been impacted by the pandemic, and the setbacks the industry is seeing show no signs of slowing, even as we shift into what will hopefully be post-pandemic times. Here’s what you can expect and how to handle it…
Biggest Regrets Homeowners Have After a DIY Renovation
89% of Americans said that they attempted a home improvement project during the pandemic. However, how many of these projects ended in success? Fewer than you might think...
Designer By Your Side: How It Works & What to Expect
Renovating a kitchen or bathroom? Having a contractor asking for your design selections… but you don’t have them or even know where to start? Then this might be for you…
How to Choose Beautiful & Cohesive Hardware for Your Home
Did you know that your hardware choices can make or break a room? It’s true. Hardware seems like such a small detail, but it’s one that is important to get right. It helps bring your whole design together and create interest in your space. Here’s how…
The 1940s Fixer Upper: Changing up the Floor Plan
Today, I’m sharing our process for creating a floor plan, along with the specific updates we will be making to create a family-friendly home…
How to Select the Perfect Pendants for Any Space in Your Home
Adding pendant lighting to your home is a great way to create a focal point in a room. It also helps define a space (especially if you have multiple “rooms” within an open concept floor plan) and pumps up the style of the space by adding extra light, texture, or pops of color…