All posts by Beth and Carolina

5 Ways that Pulp Can Make the Most of Your Project

Entertaining + Home Living, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

For some people, even at the highest income levels, there can be a question of whether or not they really need to hire an interior designer for their project. Usually it’s because they really don’t understand how much is involved in creating a new home or renovating a major space. It’s a LOT more than selecting paint colors and furniture. At Pulp, we are experts at not only delivering beautiful homes for our clients, but also making the most of every aspect of their project. Here’s how!

1. Select the Best Property

One thing that we encourage clients to do is to bring the Pulp team in at the very beginning of their project – when they’re actually looking for their dream home or a property. Because we have the expertise to understand what will give our clients the best value for their money, we can give them invaluable advice on budget, construction, renovation, and more. For a longtime client, we worked together to find the stunning home above. It was the right location and it really had the perfect “bones” for what she wanted.

2. Deliver Beautiful Functionality

One thing interior designers know more than any other professional is how a space is used. The Pulp team spends a lot of time talking to our clients about how they live, what they love to do, and where they’ve had frustrations about their living spaces. Spending all that time getting to know our clients allows us to develop beautiful spaces that also function perfectly for everyone in the family. That can include play spaces, kitchens with a lot of storage, layouts that make more sense, and unique rooms that have every luxe bell and whistle in the right place.

3. Design Creative Solutions

There is no challenge that the Pulp team can’t handle in a home project. And we’ve had plenty of them thrown our way! We’re known for designing spaces that take advantage of every single square inch in a house, like the hidden wine room we created beneath a staircase in Seattle. We also can rework an awkward layout or brainstorm solutions to tricky construction issues. We stay on top of every project to ensure that our clients will have the perfect dream home when we leave.

4. Make the Most of Your Investment

Bringing Pulp onto a project saves time and money for our clients. We know where to invest their money to add value to their home and to make the most of their project budget. We also handle every detail so our clients can live and work without worrying about the project. That includes dealing with the contractor or architect, bringing in our fabulous subcontractors, taking delivery of furniture and accessories, and making job site visits to be sure everything is being done to your specifications.

5. Tell Your Story

Your home should be uniquely yours! Every room should tell your story and show your personality in the most beautiful way possible. We guide our clients to decisions that will not only give them a home that showcases exactly who they are, but also does that in a fearless and creative way.

Ready to work with us? Give our team a call!

The Best Resolution Rooms, Part 2

Entertaining + Home Living, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Last week we talked about “resolution rooms,” spaces that will help you stick to your goals. Pulp loves to create these rooms for our clients, to support their lifestyles and welcome them home with fun and stress-free living. We’ve covered home offices and wellness spaces, and this week we’ll talk about game rooms, home bars, and ideas to keep you organized. Let’s take a look!

HOME BARS

Spending more time with family and friends should be on our goal lists every year, and what better way to entertain than with a home bar?! Whether our clients are shaking up signature cocktails or fun-for-the-family mocktails, Pulp offers everything they need at home. In these home bars we’ve designed across the country, we included wine storage, drink fridges, sinks, microwave drawers for snacks, and storage for all the glasses and accessories.

In one Seattle home, we made the home bar an indoor/outdoor space with a roll-up window.

A previously unused space in a chic modern Pulp home above was transformed into the perfect space for crafting cocktails.

Custom cabinetry, a waterfall bar, and super-comfy barstools make the Dallas home bar we designed a sophisticated destination for guests.

A bar sink, wine fridge, and custom storage for drink bottles gave this bar area in Dallas a functional style. And the open plan keeps it all in the family (room!).

GAME ROOMS

Pulp creates unique game and play spaces that little kids love, that even teens will think are cool, and that support game nights for the adults in the home. We’re even in the process of designing a golf simulation room that we’ll unveil in the coming months, so stay tuned!

This large bonus space definitely gets points for style with the bold stripes going straight up the wall. It’s a fun and chic space for the teens in the home!

This Pulp-designed room has something for everyone, whether they like board games, video games, or watching the “big game” on TV each weekend!

One client’s love for table tennis gave us the inspiration to find a stylish table that would be the perfect place for fun.

Organized spaces

When it comes to resolutions (and home design), it isn’t all fun and games. There’s nothing better than having a place for everything, and everything in its place. We spend a lot of time with our clients talking about how they use their homes and what they need to organize and put away. We want to give them the perfect storage for every single item, whether that’s in a pantry, a closet, or even in a home organizing station that keeps appointments and mail where it needs to be.

In a colorful Seattle home, we wanted to add a bit of whimsy to the pantry. A bold orange offers the perfect backdrop to the super-organized shelves.

Staying organized is proven to reduce stress! We know our Seattle clients are keeping cool and put together with the calendar and organizing station we provided in this pantry.

Custom closet design is a Pulp specialty! We want there to a be a specific space for whatever our clients need, from hats to boots to bags.

Now it’s time for you to set another resolution! Get in touch with our team to craft spaces that support your goals!

The Best Resolution Rooms, Part 1

Entertaining + Home Living, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Now that we’re halfway through the year, how are you doing with your resolutions?? It can be hard to keep those goals in mind, but your home can definitely help. Pulp believes that a home should always support the way you want to live, so we’ve become experts at creating spaces that will help you stick to your goals. In this first installment, we’ll show you wellness spaces and home offices we’ve designed that can definitely make a difference!

HOME OFFICES

If one of your goals has been to write a novel, start a new business, or just work from home more often, having a dedicated space for that all-important goal is key! Pulp has created home offices with plenty of space, desks that tuck into kitchens or bedrooms, and homework spaces for the kids in the home.

In the home above, we added a credenza to help hide electronics, papers, and cords. It keeps things chic and clean.

Tucked into a nook right off the kitchen, this office space allows our client to get work done while keeping an eye on her family.

Adding an office to the guest house in this Seattle home allows our client to have a quiet and productive space that’s away from the busier living spaces.

WELLNESS ROOMS

Personal wellness and self care are always on-trend, so rooms that can support those goals are definitely on the top of our clients’ lists for their homes. That can include home gyms, yoga rooms, spa bathrooms, steam shower rooms, saunas, and even indoor pools.

A sauna in this Seattle home gives our clients a place for stress relief and muscle recovery.

Pulp used a natural and organic design to craft a serene spa-like space in this Dallas primary suite.

It’s so much easier to stick to your exercise goals when the gym is right in your home. Pulp loves to design workout rooms that give our clients’ spaces to support their favorite way to stay in shape.

Bathrooms shouldn’t just be beautiful – they should also support the health of our clients. So we use steam showers, sound baths, heated floors and more to create that spa setting.

Do you need spaces to better support your resolutions? Get in touch with our team!

6 Tips for Kitchen Makeovers

Entertaining + Home Living, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Nothing makes a home feel brand new more than a fabulous kitchen redesign. It’s the heart of the home and where everyone wants to gather. At the top of most renovation lists, this room needs both a stunning look and amazing functionality. Here are Pulp’s top tips for creating the perfect kitchen.

1. Type Cast

We always start a kitchen renovation by asking our clients what type of cook they are. If they love to bake, then we’re going to deliver specialty storage, cabinets made for their baking pans, and a fabulous range. If they like to order in more often, then their kitchen design might focus more on microwave drawers and easy-access refrigerators. And serious entertainers will want wine storage and double dishwashers. Knowing how you plan to use this room should always be the focus for how it is designed!

2. Island Time

No matter how you use the kitchen, Pulp believes an island or peninsula is a must-have! It creates seating for guests when you’re preparing a meal, a space for homework and crafts, or a second dining area for your family. This one detail creates that hub that’s so important for this “heart of the home.”

3. Light Up

The Pulp team always reviews a lighting plan for every kitchen we design. There should be a layered design here, with bright overhead lights, task lighting, a fixture over the sink or stove, and maybe even under-cabinet lighting. That plan can literally determine whether or not you love your finished kitchen!

4. Be Bold

Take a risk in your kitchen design! It shouldn’t all be about functionality – you’re going to spend a LOT of time in this space, so be sure that it is fashionable, too. There are no rules for which colors should be included in kitchen designs, so think out of the box!

5. Store More

No one has ever regretted including a lot of storage in their new kitchen! Plan the cabinetry wisely and use every available square inch. You can store flat pans at floor level in the “toe kick” molding. You can include specialty storage for spices, utensils, baking necessities, and more. And you should definitely think about where and how you want to store small appliances.

white kitchen, custom hood, brass hood, copper hood, hammered copper hood, thermador appliances, the kitchen work triangle, panel-ready refrigerator, double oven, seattle kitchen designer, kitchen designer

6. Invest Wisely

When it comes to where to invest in a kitchen, the sky really is the limit! If you want to target your investment, this is the time to think about how you will use the kitchen. Our clients who cook will always go for the top-of-the-line range, for example. So what is most important to you?

If you’re ready for your dream kitchen, give our team a call!

Pro Tips for Improving Curb Appeal

Entertaining + Home Living, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Some homes just make you stop in your tracks. But what separates a ho-hum house from one with major curb appeal? Pulp loves to work with contractors and architects to create stunning homes and to update those that need a little more chic style! Here are some of our pro tips for upgrading a home’s curb appeal.

To modernize and update the exterior of this Laredo home, Pulp created an entire front wall, brought in oversized planters, and crafted custom doors to create a grand private entry. The idea was to create privacy, but still have a gorgeous welcoming exterior. Now THAT is curb appeal!

For an updated Tudor home in Seattle, a little paint goes a LONG way to creating a fresh take. The dark windows and eaves are complemented by an apple green front door.

We love working with top-notch landscape architects on our projects. It’s always key for Pulp to include gorgeous outdoor sculptures and planters for visual interest, like in the gardens of this Seattle modern treehouse.

For a modern Dallas farmhouse, we created a more functional and entertaining front yard by creating a custom swing and a firepit. Who wouldn’t want to be invited to a fun event here?

For a Seattle lakeside home, the architects created a beautiful modern style that pulled the outdoors inside. Pulp defined the spaces with furnishings that balanced that look without getting in the way of the gorgeous view!

If you want to upgrade your home’s curb appeal, give our team a call!

The Pulp Edit: Top 10 Spring Inspirations

Entertaining + Home Living, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

For the Pulp team, starting a new project always begins with an inspiration board like the one you see above. It helps us capture our client’s style and gives us a guide for the interiors. We also like to create these mood boards to define cutting-edge looks that we see coming on the horizon. Spring is another time of new beginnings, and one of our favorite seasons, so we were inspired to select some of our favorite trends for the season! In true Pulp style, these aren’t your usual pastels and florals, but are new ideas that are more dramatic and complex. Check them out below!

A playful catchall bowl from Haas is crafted in an eye-catching gold and matte black. It’s made of porcelain and embellished with 24K gold.

The stunning ads from Dior in Architectural Digest offer a moody take on spring fashions – and we’re here for it!

Carolina gave these Stevie hoops from Mejuri to Beth for Christmas. They are two-toned and can be worn in multiple ways, which is a perfect fit for Beth’s style!

Matisse’s cut-outs were the inspiration for a handpainted wallcovering from Porter Teleo, soon to be seen in a Pulp project in Florida.

A friend and fellow designer who passed too soon, Traci Zeller gave this necklace to the Pulp duo. To honor her, Pulp is asking for donations to a scholarship in her name at VCU. To give, enter Traci’s name in “Special Instructions.”

Donghia’s Blockbuster wallcovering is infused with mica, giving it a stunning glow. Who knew you could showcase minerals on your walls?

The new Hermès H Booming bracelet is inspired by architectural design. Gorgeous in black and gold, it was featured in the Winter issue of Elle Decor.

Mohair and woven checks are timeless looks that are elevated by both color and style in these luxe Donghia fabrics that Pulp is using in a mountain project.

These beautiful leather looks are meant to be used as flooring, a luxe and surprisingly durable idea from EcoDomo.

This grasscloth brings spring vibes while still retaining a modern style. It’s the Gru Magnus design from Schumacher in a lovely beige and gray palette.

Founders’ Five: The Glamorous Life

Entertaining + Home Living, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Pulp Design Studios’ co-founders love finding new products that make their lives easier and more glamorous! Here are their favorite finds to brighten their lives…

BETH’S PICKS

As a business owner, I am always on my phone. This faux python leather case from Flaunt gives my phone a chic look while I’m talking to clients or texting with Carolina!

This organic lamp by Studio Palatin offers super functionality due to its cordless design, allowing it to go anywhere you do!

My goal for 2025 is to read more, and top of my list is this first book by my good friend Jonathan Savage!

I like to mix metals in interiors and for my own jewelry! This ear cuff from Jennifer Fisher takes two-toned to a modern level.

Is fitness on your 2025 list of resolutions? This Bala Beam will make you feel as sleek as it looks!

CAROLINA’S PICKS

Stunning shapes form a diamond and gold design from Azlee, a unique take on
the tennis bracelet.

Speaking of cocktails, this Smokeshow starter bundle gives you everything you need to craft those on-trend smoky bourbon drinks!

I’m into charms of all shapes and sizes, so I’m obsessed with this quill-shaped piece of turquoise topped by a diamond. Available from Irene Neuwirth, this charm can be worn alone or with other favorite keepsakes.

I love modern design and beautiful functionality, so the Wave Pitcher from Mociun definitely fits the bill. It’s perfect for mixing up a batch of chic cocktails.

This luxe throw is both cozy and chic, featuring a Mondrian-themed by Jonathan Adler.

Styling Bookshelves Like a Pro

Entertaining + Home Living, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

At Pulp, we see bookshelves as another form of art for interiors. If the shelves are properly styled, they can reveal a lot of personality and style! Here’s how to set up your bookshelves like a pro, giving them a gorgeous individuality for your home.

1. Start with Books

There’s a reason that these structures are called bookshelves – you’ve got to include books! If you’re a reader, this is going to be easy. But if you aren’t, don’t just put any old book on the shelves. Select books that really do reflect what you love, like travel, fashion, photography, cars, or nature. Compelling covers help add style, too. But what you want these books to do is show a visitor what you love and who you are! The books can be stacked horizontally or vertically, and we even love to prop one up like art if the cover shot is really good.

2. Use Sculptural Forms

Interesting shapes help create amazing visual interest on shelves. Select sculptural accessories that will draw all eyes! But again, don’t just pick up any random object at a home goods store. You want to use accessories that tell your story, that let people know what you really love. So choose pieces that really speak to you.

3. Consider the Background

Showcase the items you love against a gorgeous backdrop! The Pulp team styles bookshelves backed with stunning wallpaper or incredible paint colors. Make a big statement with color and pattern.

4. Layer in Artwork

Framed art should be layered onto the shelves in interesting ways. You can prop pieces in front of each other, use small stands to display art on a stack of books, or even hang art directly on the shelves. Give your shelves a stunning style with original art that you’ve collected!

5. Use Interesting Materials

Texture is important for crafting a visually compelling story. Use a variety of materials on your shelves, from woven boxes to textured metals to stone sculptures. Even strings of beads, luxe gameboards, and Chinese paintbrushes can offer a lot of personality!

Use these ideas to tell your story through your gorgeously styled bookshelves!

5 Tips for Stress-Reducing Rooms

Entertaining + Home Living, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Reducing stress is a top priority for wellness and self-care. That can be tough with world events and daily pressures from jobs, family, and more. The Pulp team works with our clients to create beautiful homes with rooms that support the family in their goals and lifestyle. There are ways to reduce stress with a room’s decor, so here are our top 5 pro tips for making your home an oasis from a high-pressure life!

1. Engage the Senses

A room should not only look beautiful, but should also soothe you. The best way to do that is by engaging all of the senses. That includes soft velvets and leather that offer amazing textures, fresh flowers that provide an incredible scent, and draperies to help keep loud sounds outside. That will keep your stress levels low and your endorphins high.

2. Kill the Clutter

Research shows a strong link between clutter and increased stress, anxiety, and even physical health issues. That means it’s really important to keep messes to a minimum in your home. The best way to handle that is to ensure you have plenty of storage to keep things organized and out of sight. In a kitchen, consider an “appliance garage” for hiding away small appliances like toasters and coffee makers. In closets, be sure you have shoe storage and shelves for every single thing you want to put away. 

3. Use Color Psychology

Studies show that the top three stress-reducing color families are blues, greens, and yellows. Selecting from those groups can create an oasis in any room, but especially in a bedroom where rest is a top priority. Think soft sage, pale blue, and shades of light yellow to create a room that will send you to dreamland.

4. Focus on Function

There are so many advances in technology for the home, so be sure you’re taking advantage of everything that will support how you want to live. That can include sound systems through every room, layered lighting with dimmer switches, steam showers, and voice activated assistants. Each of these high-tech ideas can keep your stress levels low!

5. Neutralize Stress

Go for a neutral palette throughout the home for the easiest way to keep your stress at a minimum! Nothing works better to immediately set you and your guests at ease, and it creates a cocoon of soothing rooms. We love to layer in pattern and texture to keep a neutral room from reading as boring. Think about grays, whites, taupes, and sand tones as great combinations for any room in your home.

Use these ideas to create quietly beautiful spaces that will welcome you to stress-free living! And if you want help crafting your own perfect home, give our team a call!

How to Go Bold at Home

Entertaining + Home Living, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Making bold design decisions for your home’s decor sounds like fun, but so many people find it intimidating or complicated. Pulp is known for embracing the adventure of interior design and pushing the envelope on how each room can look. So we have a few pro tips that will help you feel more confident to go bold in your home’s interiors!

Become a Mix Master

Pattern mixing can definitely be scary, but there is an art to it. First, remember that patterns don’t just mean on the fabrics! There can also be a pattern on wallpaper and art that needs to be considered as part of the mix, too. Then start with your “hero” pattern. That’s the one that you want to be the focal point. Often (but not always!!) that is also the one with the largest scale, like that stunning velvet on the back of the sofas above. Then layer in other patterns but be sure to vary the scale. The design of the art hanging behind the sofa in the room above has a more medium scale in comparison to that velvet, so it isn’t fighting for attention! And then there is a quiet and smaller scale for the pattern on the floor. That mixology will give you the perfect bold design look!

Anchor the Color

If you described the room above to someone who couldn’t see it, they might think “how does that all work?” There is a palette of blue, raspberry, grey, brown, and brass. Without an understanding of how to make it all work together, that could have been a busy mess! The key is to have an anchor for the color palette, or a place that just ties everything together. For that dining room, it’s definitely the rug, where every color is represented. Then we selected one color to be the most dominant, in this case the raspberry. And the blue plays a strong secondary role. You can be much more adventurous with color if you keep that anchoring rule in mind!

Keep Your Focus

Bold design choices can overwhelm a room and look like a huge mistake if you aren’t careful. Remember to keep your focus. There should be an obvious place for your eye to land when you enter the space. In our “sinner’s den” above, that spot was definitely the feature all with the wallpaper and that huge mirror. Everything around that is supporting the look with either its finish or its color. It’s soothing to the eye and less confusing or overwhelming if you stick to that initial focus for the room.

Speak with an Accent

You don’t have to cover a room with paint or use a truckload of tile to craft a more dramatic style! Look carefully at that bold home office above. If you took all of the furniture and art away, the room has a neutral color and a wood floor. What adds that sense of color and adventure is all of the amazing accents! The art, light fixture, accessories and fabrics give the room a real personality. It looks bold but hasn’t required a major commitment. If you’re commitment-phobic when it comes to your decor, try this design idea!

If you want a bolder home but need help getting there, give our team a call!