Season’s Greetings from Carole Lee Interiors

Christmas tree with silver balls on pink background. Christmas card with white silver decor. Top view

As the year draws to a close, I want to take a moment to thank you for trusting me and my team with your homes and spaces. Whether it was transforming a kitchen, creating a cozy retreat in your bathroom, or reimagining outdoor spaces, it has been an absolute privilege to bring your visions to life.

Your continued support and partnership mean the world to us. Every project is a true partnership, and having the chance to design and create spaces that showcase your unique style and meet your needs is what makes this work so rewarding.

As we head into the holiday season, I wish you and your loved ones a season filled with joy, warmth, and cherished moments. May your home be a place of celebration and connection, surrounded by those you hold dear.

Looking ahead, I’m excited for what the new year will bring. Whether you’re dreaming of a small update or planning a full-scale renovation, we’re here to help turn your ideas into reality.

Wishing you a happy, healthy holiday season and a bright new year! Thank you for letting us be part of your journey.

Warm regards,
Carole Lee
Carole Lee Interiors and Complete General Contracting

Six Hardwood Flooring Updates to Warm Up Your Home This Fall

 

Open entryway with wood floor and staircase, with view of living room. Horizontal format.

As the cool, crisp days of autumn approach, there’s no better time to consider updating your home with beautiful hardwood flooring. Hardwood floors not only add warmth and timeless elegance to your home, but they’re also durable and can increase the value of your property. With the upcoming holiday season, it’s the perfect time to refresh your space and create a cozy, inviting environment for family gatherings.

As both an interior designer and a general contractor, Carole Lee can help guide you through the process of selecting and installing the perfect hardwood floors for your home. Here are six types of hardwood flooring that can make your space shine this fall:

  1. Wider Plank Hardwood Floors

Wider planks are a popular trend in hardwood flooring, offering a more open, seamless look. These floors are ideal for creating a rustic, yet modern feel. Wider planks, often made from oak, walnut, or other hardwoods, can make a room appear larger and add a sense of continuity. They’re perfect for living rooms, dining areas, and open-plan kitchens where you want to highlight the beauty of natural wood grains.

  1. Oak Hardwood Flooring

Oak is one of the most traditional and durable hardwood options available. With its distinct grain pattern and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic, oak is a fantastic choice for high-traffic areas like entryways, kitchens, and hallways. Oak comes in both red and white varieties, with white oak offering a more neutral tone that pairs well with autumnal decor. Oak is a strong hardwood, making it perfect for families who want flooring that will last for decades.

  1. Walnut Hardwood Flooring

Walnut is a luxurious, darker wood that brings warmth and sophistication to any space. Its rich, chocolate tones and smooth grain make it an excellent choice for more formal areas like dining rooms or home offices. Walnut is slightly softer than oak, but its aesthetic appeal makes it a favorite for those looking for a more refined look this fall.

  1. Cherry Hardwood Flooring

Cherry wood offers a beautiful, warm red hue that deepens over time, making it a unique and vibrant choice for hardwood floors. Cherry is a softer wood, meaning it’s better suited for lower-traffic areas such as bedrooms or living rooms. If you’re looking to add rich, natural color to your space without the need for additional staining, cherry is a stunning option.

  1. Gray-Stained Hardwood Flooring

Gray hardwood floors have become increasingly popular for their modern, sophisticated look. This finish can be applied to various wood types, including oak and maple, providing a contemporary twist on traditional hardwoods. Gray flooring works beautifully in kitchens and living areas, offering a neutral backdrop that complements both cool and warm color palettes, making it ideal for the autumn season.

  1. Hickory Hardwood Flooring

Hickory is one of the hardest domestic woods available, making it highly durable and ideal for busy households. Its dramatic grain pattern and natural color variation add character to any room. Hickory works well in open-concept spaces where its striking appearance can be showcased. Its durability makes it perfect for homes with pets and children, providing both beauty and resilience.

Each of these hardwood flooring options offers its own unique benefits, from timeless beauty to unmatched durability.  As someone who can manage both the design and installation, Carole Lee can ensure your new floors are not only stunning but also installed to perfection. Ready to give your home a seasonal update?  Contact Carole Lee Interiors today to schedule a consultation and start your fall flooring transformation!

Fall-Ready Kitchen: Quick Updates for a Warm and Inviting Space

 

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s no better time to consider refreshing your kitchen in preparation for the cozy gatherings and festive meals that autumn brings. The kitchen is the heart of the home, especially during the fall when cooking hearty meals and entertaining loved ones become central activities.

As a professional interior designer who also offers general contracting services, Carole Lee understands the importance of balancing style with functionality.  Here are six easy kitchen updates that can help transform your space this fall, ensuring it’s both beautiful and practical for the upcoming fall and holidays.

  1. Update Your Backsplash

The backsplash is one of the most visible parts of your kitchen and updating it can make a significant impact with minimal effort. Consider warm, earthy tones or natural materials like stone or wood-look tiles to bring in the warmth of autumn. A new backsplash not only refreshes the aesthetic but also provides a durable, easy-to-clean surface that’s perfect for a season filled with cooking.

  1. Install Under-Cabinet Lighting

As the days get shorter, good lighting becomes even more critical in the kitchen. Under-cabinet lighting is an easy upgrade that enhances both functionality and ambiance. Whether you opt for soft, warm LED strips or classic puck lights, this addition can make your kitchen feel cozier while also improving visibility for food prep and cooking during those darker evenings.

  1. Add a Kitchen Island or Update the Existing One

A kitchen island can be a game-changer, offering extra counter space, storage, and a place for family and friends to gather. If you already have an island, consider updating it with a new countertop, adding open shelving, or even integrating an under-counter appliance like a wine fridge. For those with smaller spaces, a portable island or a cart can add flexibility without a major renovation.

  1. Refresh Your Cabinet Hardware

Swapping out old cabinet hardware for new handles and knobs is a quick and easy update that can modernize your kitchen instantly. This fall, think about using materials like brushed brass, copper, or matte black to bring in that autumnal warmth and complement the season’s palette.

  1. Repaint or Refinish Your Cabinets

If your cabinets are looking tired but you’re not ready for a full replacement, repainting or refinishing them is a cost-effective way to breathe new life into your kitchen. Consider deep, rich colors like navy, forest green, or even a soft gray for a sophisticated, seasonal update. As a general contractor, Carole Lee can ensure the job is done with precision, making your cabinets look as good as new.

  1. Incorporate Seasonal Decor and Textiles

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of seasonal decor. Introduce autumn-themed items like patterned dish towels, a cozy area rug, or a centerpiece featuring pumpkins, gourds, and autumn leaves. These small touches can make your kitchen feel inviting and festive without requiring a major overhaul.

Each of these updates offers an opportunity to enhance your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetic, making it ready for the busy season ahead. As someone who can handle both the design and the execution, Carole Lee can ensure that your kitchen not only looks beautiful but also functions perfectly for all your fall cooking and entertaining needs. Ready to get started?

Contact Carole Lee Interiors today to schedule a consultation and let’s bring your dream kitchen to life this autumn!

Summer with Carole Lee Interiors: Your Go-To for Outdoor Projects

 

Photo of luxury garden furniture at the patio

As the warm days of summer approach, it’s the perfect time to transform your outdoor living spaces. Whether you’re dreaming of a new deck, a sleek blacktop driveway, or a beautifully furnished patio, we’re here to bring your vision to life. Our expertise spans from designing stunning interiors to building high-quality outdoor spaces, ensuring your home is a place of comfort, beauty, and functionality year-round.

Some of Our Outdoor Services

At Carole Lee Interiors, we specialize in a wide array of outdoor projects tailored to meet the unique needs of our residential clients. Here’s how we can help you make the most of your outdoor space this summer:

  • Deck Construction: We build decks from a variety of materials, each offering distinct benefits to suit your lifestyle and preferences.
  • Blacktop Driveways: Our durable and stylish driveways enhance curb appeal while providing long-lasting performance.
  • Power Washing: Revitalize your existing decks and patios with our professional power washing services.
  • Patios, Pool Decks and Walkways: Create the perfect setting for relaxation and entertainment with our custom patios and pool decks and walkways.
  • Outdoor Furniture and Accessories: From deck furniture and bar storage cabinets to decorative pillows and patio table umbrellas, we provide everything you need to create an inviting outdoor space.

Choosing the Right Deck Material

Selecting the right material for your deck is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of aesthetics, durability, and maintenance. Here’s a detailed look at some popular deck materials, along with their pros and cons:

 Wood Decks Wood decks are a classic choice that offers natural beauty and a timeless appeal. Common types include cedar, redwood, and pine.

  • Pros:
    • Aesthetic Appeal: Wood provides a warm, natural look that blends seamlessly with any outdoor setting.
    • Versatility: Can be stained or painted to match your desired color scheme.
    • Initial Cost: Generally lower upfront cost compared to composite and PVC materials.
  • Cons:
    • Maintenance: Requires regular sealing, staining, or painting to prevent weather damage and decay.
    • Durability: Prone to splintering, warping, and insect damage over time.

Composite Decks Composite decking is made from a mix of wood fibers and plastic, offering a durable and low-maintenance option.

  • Pros:
    • Low Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep – no staining or sealing needed.
    • Durability: Resistant to rot, insects, and fading.
    • Eco-Friendly: Often made from recycled materials.
  • Cons:
    • Cost: Higher initial cost compared to wood.
    • Appearance: While improved over the years, some people still find it lacks the natural look of wood.

PVC Decks PVC decking is made entirely of plastic and offers a high level of durability and weather resistance.

  • Pros:
    • Durability: Highly resistant to moisture, insects, and mold.
    • Maintenance: Easy to clean and does not require staining or sealing.
    • Weight: Lightweight and easy to install.
  • Cons:
    • Cost: Typically, the most expensive decking material.
    • Temperature Sensitivity: Can become very hot in direct sunlight.

Pressure-Treated Wood Decks Pressure-treated wood is treated with chemicals to resist rot, decay, and insect damage, making it a cost-effective option.

  • Pros:
    • Affordability: Lower cost compared to other materials.
    • Durability: Enhanced resistance to elements and pests.
    • Availability: Widely available in various sizes and lengths.
  • Cons:
    • Maintenance: Requires regular maintenance, including sealing and staining.
    • Chemical Treatment: Some people are concerned about the chemicals used in the treatment process.

 Tropical Hardwoods Tropical hardwoods, such as a Brazilian hardwood known as IPE and teak, are known for their rich colors and exceptional durability.

  • Pros:
    • Aesthetic Appeal: Stunning natural beauty with unique grain patterns.
    • Longevity: Extremely durable and resistant to decay, insects, and weather.
    • Strength: High density makes it less likely to warp or splinter.
  • Cons:
    • Cost: Higher initial cost due to material quality and sourcing.
    • Workability: Can be challenging to cut and install due to its density.

At Carole Lee Interiors, we’re dedicated to helping you create an outdoor space that you’ll love. Whether you’re envisioning a cozy wood deck or a low-maintenance composite patio, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process. From initial design concepts to the finishing touches of outdoor furniture and accessories, we ensure that every detail is crafted to perfection.

Ready to start your next outdoor project? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let Carole Lee Interiors bring your dream outdoor space to life!

Renovation Projects That Provide a Good ROI

Spring is in the air and is usually the time we begin to consider tackling home improvement projects we have on our to-do list.  And while investing in home renovations is about making your living space your own, and keeping things up to date, it also about increasing your home’s value. Here are some tips from Carole Lee some of the best home renovations that promise a solid return on investment:

Kitchen Remodel: The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, making it one of the most valuable areas to renovate. Focus on upgrading countertops, cabinets, and appliances for a modern and functional kitchen that appeals to potential buyers.

Bathroom Remodel: Renovating bathrooms can significantly boost your home’s resale value. Consider adding new fixtures, updating tiles, and improving storage to create a spa-like retreat that adds both luxury and functionality.

Curb Appeal: First impressions matter, so investing in exterior renovations can yield high returns. Improve curb appeal by updating siding, replacing garage doors, and enhancing landscaping to make your home more attractive to buyers from the moment they arrive.

Energy Efficient Improvements: Energy-efficient upgrades not only reduce utility costs but also increase the value of your home. Consider installing new windows, upgrading insulation, or investing in solar panels to make your home eco-friendlier and appealing to environmentally conscious buyers.

Finished Basement: Converting an unfinished basement into a usable living space can add significant value to your home. Whether transformed into a family room, home office, or additional bedroom, a finished basement provides extra square footage and versatility, appealing to a wide range of buyers.

Carole Lee Interiors is a full-service Design & Build firm that works with each client through concept, design, installation, and completion of small and large scale home renovation projects.  Give us a call today.

How To Elevate Your Home for The Holidays

 

Elevating your home for the holidays involves a thoughtful blend of festive elements combined with your unique style.  Working with a professional interior designer can help the process move forward without the risk of mistakes, while saving you both time and money, two things we all need more of during the holiday season. Below are a few tips from the pros at Carole Lee Interiors.

Start by selecting a color palette that complements your existing decor while infusing seasonal warmth. Integrate traditional reds and greens, icy blues and silvers, or neutral tones with metallic accents for a contemporary touch.

Lighting is always key in creating a festive ambiance. Use twinkling lights across mantels, staircases, and around windows. LED candles provide a safe alternative, emitting a cozy glow throughout your space. To evoke the essence of the season, introduce natural elements such as pinecones, holly, and evergreen branches into your arrangements.  Wreaths and garlands made from these materials offer a timeless charm.

Curate a visually appealing tree by combining cherished family ornaments with new, additions. Personal touches can make your holiday decor special, so don’t shy away from showcasing sentimental pieces. Enhance comfort with festive throw pillows and blankets, inviting loved ones to relax and enjoy the holiday spirit.

Extend the festive atmosphere outdoors by adorning your entrance with well-placed lights, a welcoming doormat, and a festive wreath. By blending tradition, personaltouches, and contemporary elements, your holiday decor becomes a reflection of your unique style and the warmth of the season.

Happy Holidays from Carole Lee Interiors!

 

How To Design Cozy Room This Autumn

Autumn in our region is such a beautiful time of year. Crispness in the air, pumpkins, and apple cider, comfy sweaters.  And trees undergo a spectacular transformation, their leaves turning a brilliant symphony of gold, crimson and burnt orange, casting a warm and inviting glow that defines the beauty of the season. As we move indoors we begin to think about how to design a snug retreat in our homes.  Here are six ideas on how to create a cozy room in your home this autumn.

Warm Color Palette: Embrace the colors of autumn by incorporating warm tones into your room.  Choose deep oranges, burgundy, and earthy browns for pillows, throws, and curtains.

Textured Textiles:  Introduce soft and textured fabrics like knitted blankets, faux fur pillows, and plush cushions.  These textiles not only provide physical warmth but also add a tactile element to the space, and make it feel more inviting.

Ambient Lighting:  Enhance the cozy ambiance with warm lighting.  Consider using dimmable recessed lighting or string or fairy lights in a casual room for a festive setting, or candles to create a warm soft glo

Natural Elements: Bring the outdoors inside by incorporating natural elements.  Dried flowers, pinecones and branches can be used to create a visually appealing focal point adding a touch of rustic charm that aligns with the autumn season.

Layered Floor Coverings: Enhance coziness underfoot and add luxury by layering rugs.  Choose soft and plush textures in warm tones to fashion a welcoming feel.  This also adds insulation and overall comfort to the room.

Create A Reading Nook: Design a dedicated reading corner with a comfortable chair and pillows, accent lighting, your favorite books, and a few personal touches.  This adds a functional element to the room and encourages relaxation during cooler months.

Working with an Interior Designer will help your creativity flow while avoiding costly mistakes and allow you to enjoy the process of transforming your home into a cozy retreat this autumn.  Call Carole Lee Interiors today and let’s begin a conversation.

 

Bring Life to Your Living Space with Colorful Design and Decor!

 

Soon the summer will have passed and before long fall will be upon us. With chillier days ahead we begin to think about rich vivid colors and cozy spaces to incorporate into our indoor spaces.

Bringing color into your room can transform its ambiance and create a vibrant and welcoming space. Whether you prefer bold and lively hues or calming and soothing tones, incorporating color into your room can be an enjoyable and creative process. Here are some tips from Carole Lee Interiors to help achieve the perfect balance of color in your living space.

Choose a Color Scheme: Start by selecting a color scheme that resonates with your personality and style. You can opt for monochromatic (shades of a single color), complementary (colors opposite each other on the color wheel), or analogous (colors next to each other on the color wheel) schemes.

Focus on the Walls: Painting the walls is an effective way to introduce color into your room. If you’re hesitant to go all-in with a bold shade, try an accent wall first. Experiment with various paint samples to find the perfect match.

Play with Accessories: Incorporate color through decorative accessories like throw pillows, rugs, window treatments, and artwork. These elements are relatively easy to change, allowing you to experiment with different colors and patterns over time.

Furniture with Flair: Consider investing in furniture pieces with colorful upholstery or finishes. A vibrant couch or an eye-catching dresser can serve as a focal point while adding personality to your room.

Indoor Plants: Greenery not only adds a splash of color but also brings life and freshness into your space. Indoor plants come in various shades, and they can complement the overall color scheme of your room.

Lighting Matters: The type of lighting you use can significantly impact the perception of color in your room. Experiment with different lighting fixtures and bulbs to achieve the desired ambiance.

Personal Touch: Don’t be afraid to showcase your personal style by incorporating cherished items that hold sentimental value. Handmade crafts or textiles or statement pieces from travels can add unique and meaningful colors to your space.

The key is to strike a balance between different colors and avoid overwhelming the room.  Whether you go for a bold and lively look or a calm and serene atmosphere, incorporating color thoughtfully will undoubtedly enhance the overall appeal and comfort of your room. Working with an Interior Designer will help your creativity flow while avoiding costly mistakes and allow you to enjoy the process of transforming your living space into a colorful haven.  Contact Carole Lee Interiors today and let’s begin a conversation.

Home Design Tips for Spring

 

As the weather gets warmer and the flowers start to bloom, it’s time to refresh your homes interior and exterior with some spring-inspired design ideas. Here are some tips to give your home a fresh, new look for the season.

Power Washing:  Start by power washing your home’s exterior, walkways, driveway, and outdoor furniture to remove the buildup of dirt and grime from winter.  This will give your home a fresh, clean look and help you get started on other outdoor projects.

Outdoor Lighting:  Update your outdoor lighting fixtures to give your home a warm and inviting glow in the evenings. Consider adding landscape lighting to highlight your garden and pathways.

Painting:  A fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest ways to give your home a new look. Choose light, bright colors like pastels or neutrals to bring a sense of freshness and lightness to your space.

Lawn Furniture:  Add some outdoor lawn furniture to your backyard or patio for the perfect spot to enjoy the spring warm weather. Consider investing in a durable, weather-resistant furniture that will last throughout the season.

Adding Decks: Installing a deck is an excellent way to expand your living area and create a relaxing outdoor space. Whether you choose wood or composite decking, it provides a versatile platform for outdoor dining, entertaining, or simply enjoying the fresh air. Customize your deck with comfortable seating, potted plants, and decorative accents to make it a cozy extension of your home.

Redoing Patios: Give your patio a makeover by repainting or staining the surface to breathe new life into the area. Consider adding outdoor rugs, cozy seating arrangements, and vibrant throw pillows to create a welcoming atmosphere. Incorporate a shade structure such as a pergola or an umbrella to provide relief from the sun during warmer days.

New Blacktop for Driveway: If your driveway is showing signs of wear and tear, spring is the perfect time to invest in a new blacktop. A freshly paved driveway not only improves the curb appeal of your home but also provides a smoother driving experience. Ensure proper maintenance by filling any cracks and applying a sealant to protect it from future damage.

Overall, these spring-inspired interior design ideas will help you create a welcoming and refreshing atmosphere in your home.  Let the experts at Carole Lee Interiors help you with power washing, updating your lighting, painting, and adding lawn furniture to transform your space into a bright and inviting oasis for the season.

Embrace The Winter Season with These Interior Design Tips

With the festivities of the holidays behind us and February right around the corner, it can sometimes feel bleak and dreary during the winter months.  If it were not for our Philadelphia Eagles, and Valentines Day, what would we do to keep our spirits up?

Now is a great time to spice up your home with a spark of winter wonderland and embrace the winter months with a cozy space.  Here are a few tried and true interior design tips from Carole Lee, that will not require an entire renovated space, but still help you embrace the winter season.

Increase Warmth

Begin with adding warmth using your built-in fireplace to instantly increase the coziness factor.  If your home lacks a built-in fireplace, you can try a traditional fireplace stove, an electric fireplace insert, or electric fireplace log inserts.  For a more custom look turn to a wall mounted fireplace, a mantle and fireplace combination or even an electric fireplace TV stand.

Include Area Rugs

Cozy up any room by styling your rooms with an area rug. The right rug can breathe life into your decor, especially in an open area. But before you start shopping, consider working with an interior designer to help you narrow down both the right size rug and how to place your rug to ground your room or create a seating area and arrange a runner with style.

Use Softer Lighting

Softer lighting creates a warm environment to relax.  Try installing scones above a bed, around a bathroom mirror, or over a mantle to cast a pleasant glow. Instead of using a single light source, scatter multiple lower wattage fixtures around the room. Also consider recessed lighting and under cabinet lighting.

Add Texture

In an interior design context, texture refers to the use of furniture, textiles, objects, and finishes in a range of materials that add visual interest and tactile variation to a room design. Add a touch of winter-specific elements that include deep velvets or luxurious jacquard fabrics. Switch out your regular accent pillows, window treatments, and other upholstery with winter-specific elements to give existing decor a lift by building on the textures that are already there and adding more layers.

Carole Lee Interiors is a full-service Interior Design & Build firm that offers an expansive selection of high-quality furnishings, lighting, accessories, and curated art for a complete renovation, or simply updating one area or element in your home. Stay warm!