The CKD Blog
Where Sarah, and sometimes Steve, share design projects, renovation advice, and other project-related insights.
5 Ways to Transform your Tuscan Style Interiors Without a Major Renovation
Tuscan-style interiors were the trend of the ‘90s, with dark cabinetry, granite countertops, and travertine from wall to wall. But now, it’s 20+ years later, and your Tuscan-style home no longer feels like the reigning king of style. If you’re ready to trade those dark tones and dated materials for light, bright, and fresh, you’re in luck! Today, I’m sharing 5 ways you can make cosmetic updates that will give you the refresh you crave without requiring major construction…
Stunning Chandeliers: FAQs & Where to Find Them
By definition, a chandelier is any prominent light fixture that has multiple bulbs — which really opens up a world of possibilities! Today, I want to share some of the FAQs I hear about chandeliers, along with a few of my favorite options in stunning yet versatile designs. Come take a look…
1940s Fixer Upper: Patience & Progress in Pensacola
Wow…it’s been 6 months since we’ve updated you on our 1940s Fixer Upper! If you had told us last February (when we closed on the house) that this would be a 12-month remodel, I would have said, “No way.” Yes way. Progress has been slow, patience has been at an all-time high, but after many months, we are finally nearing the finish line. We couldn’t be happier. Here is what we have experienced and achieved since the last update…
Cabinetry 101: 5 Steps to Selecting Cabinets with High-Quality Craftsmanship
Welcome to Part 2 of Cabinetry 101, where we’ll be talking about everything you need to know about the cabinets’ style and construction. While this isn’t as exciting as deciding on various colors and hardware details, the construction and features of the cabinets are like the foundation of a house. Build on a good foundation, and the rest will fall into place. Choose the right cabinetry construction, and your design will shine. Keep reading to find out how…
Cabinetry 101: What to Know about the Investment, Quality & Source
Did you know that there is far more to cabinet selection than just choosing the door style and color? That’s why, as part of our planning process, we always take our clients to the cabinet showroom for a first-hand look at the differences in quality, functionality, and style. Steve refers to this as “Cabinetry 101.” Today, I’m inviting you to an abbreviated version of Cabinetry 101 and answering 4 of the top FAQs we hear every time…
A Year in Review: The Good, The Bad & The Oakley
I thought I would wrap up this year by sharing the ups and downs we experienced at work and at home. Without further ado, here are the top 5 things we are thankful for in 2021, along with our goals and vision for 2022 — which includes serving and supporting you. Come take a look...
Guest Post: Steve’s Favorite Kitchen Cabinet Features
Hey y’all, it’s Steve again. I’m taking over for Sarah this week...so today, let’s keep it fun with my favorite kitchen cabinet features, the ones that make cooking, entertaining, and cleanup easy...
5 Decade-Defining Features in Florida Homes & How to Update Them
I’ve been in many homes here on the Gulf coast, and I can tell you that I’ve seen some definite patterns in the types of decade-defining features homeowners are likely to be living with — or buying, if they just moved or transferred here. While not all of these dated design elements need to be given the boot, if they feel out of place to you, there are several solutions you can implement, from renovating to a cosmetic refresh.
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.