31 Bright and colorful kitchen design inspirations

Even though white kitchens are still the mainstream because they are clean-lined and safe for anyone who is afraid of using color, bold and colorful cooking spaces seem to have made a major comeback. Most of us are used to decorating our favorite social space with a neutral color palette, but adding a splash of color can make the heart of the home feel bright and cheery. The kitchen sets the stage for the quality of life enjoyed in the home, as not only a place to gather together for a meal but for before and after.  It should harmoniously connect with the entire home, reflecting the style and personality of the inhabitants. It is in the details that create that personal statement of style, with the basic ingredients being the appliances and cabinets, which should specifically be selected to fit the design style of the home.

Hues such as red, bright green and yellow may not be what you would expect to see in the food-prep areas, but that’s exactly why they can elevate a kitchen beyond the ordinary. Whether they are applied to the entire room, or limited to a vibrant backsplash, they can also help personalize your cooking space. If you are wishing to infuse your kitchen with color but don’t know where to start, take a look at this inspiring collection of colorful kitchens that we have gathered for you with their neon countertops, brightly colored cabinetry, and incredible backsplashes and you might just get the motivation you need to start experimenting with color in your own home.

Don’t forget to tell us which colorful kitchen we have featured is your favorite!

38 Brilliant interiors by Jeffers Design Group

Jeffers Design Group is an award winning interior design firm out of San Francisco, California that creates luxurious but livable homes. The firm creates spaces that have soul and an atmosphere that feels like they have been collected over a period of time. The design principal is Jay Jeffers who started out 14 years ago with one client in the guest bedroom of his home. His goal is to “create beautiful, livable homes that are well-edited, collected, reflect my clients’ personalities and have a touch of whimsy. Design doesn’t have to take itself too seriously.” From remodeling to interior design and collaborating with architects, the firm takes on projects from 800 square feet to 25,000 square feet. With a bold and innovative design approach, the images we have collected range from mountain cabins to trendy and chic apartments. Enjoy the images and please let us know what you think of this fabulous collection in the comments section below!

Photos: Matthew Millman

Collection of 26 stunning Kohler-inspired bathrooms

Find some inspiration for your next bathroom remodel in our collection of stylish bathrooms that range in attitude from contemporary to traditional to even Zen-like simplicity. You’ll find that with the right planning and product selection, you could be well on your way to designing your own perfect bathroom retreat. Today, well designed bathrooms are not only beautiful, they are also very durable and highly functional. A full bathroom must comprise of four plumbing fixtures, a sink, bathtub, shower and toilet. After incorporating these four essential elements into your bathroom scheme, you can mix and match materials to transform a utilitarian space into a tranquil private spa, a glamorous spot to apply make-up or an eco-friendly place to shave. Bathroom cabinets and vanities help to create extra storage for the accumulative number of necessary products.

Each of these beautiful bathrooms that we show in the collection of pictures below have one thing in common, they all feature Kohler bathroom faucets, and various other fixtures designed by Kohler. Kohler is known for their innovation and design as one of the leading manufacturers of kitchen and bathroom plumbing fixtures. Their products are not only gorgeous to look at, they make statement pieces in any home. Kohler’s vast assortment of products makes it easy to find whatever it is that you are looking for to fit into your design scheme, whether it be a more minimalist design or creating a showstopper such as a powder room or even a private spa sanctuary.

Some of the current trends making a huge impact in bathroom styling includes, Hotel Inspired- recreating a luxury experience of a five star hotel within your own home with the focus on light, space and finish throughout. Organic- applying soft, gentle curves that are inspired by nature with sweeping contour that flows effortlessly; lines that are designed to soothe and relax the mind. Classic Boho- a style that embraces the character of the past, mixing in contemporary elements to create an original design. Black & White- it’s all about making a statement with and leaving an impression with bold, dramatic and visual theatre.

Eco- a sustainable bathroom that brings the outdoors in, connecting with the natural environment. Be bathed in warm light, save water, energy and awaken your spirit. Open Spaces- One free-flowing expanse where the bathroom becomes part of the living zone, a connected gallery space where fixture become sculptures, such as a bathtub. Minimalist- Creating a modern aesthetic with clean lines, using only what’s essential. Day Spa- A wellness oasis designed with warm tones and natural materials with a soothing touch. Traditional- Classic pieces create a relaxed space, timeless design with the little details. Family- Create a kid friendly atmosphere with function for all, with great traffic flow, storage and a hint of color to customize.

Choosing the perfect lighting schemes for airy and well-ventilated homes

The appeal of a home is determined by a number of different factors. Homeowners carefully choose the type of furniture, the wall color, the flooring material and various other decor options to help a home feel inviting and livable. However, some neglect to appreciate the importance of lighting. In airy and well-ventilated homes, there is a belief that lighting is not as much as a concern as it would be in a more constrained atmosphere. However, the correct lighting can add a sense of uniqueness and help to break up what may appear to be a rather open and even cold environment while at the same time offering environmentally-friendly options with low consumption fixtures.

The “Warmth” Factor

Well-ventilated spaces are ideal for stifling summer days, but in the evenings should rooms be sparsely lit, they can appear altogether harsh and drab. This is especially the case should the walls be painted a darker hue. Some of the best lighting techniques can add a sense of warmth and comfort to these spaces. “Airy” should never be confused with “cold”. Ceiling-mounted “High Hat” fixtures are an excellent way to bathe a room in warm light and help to accentuate the spaciousness while not leaving the occupants feeling overwhelmed.

 Formal Dining Areas

As the dining room represents one of the areas of a home that is used most often, chandeliers can go a long way in adding a wonderful visual centerpiece that can help highlight an open environment. It is important to choose one that matches the decor around the room, otherwise the chandelier may appear “dated” and out-of-context.

Large Areas Such as Living Rooms and Other Formal Spaces

Wall sconces are a visually stunning way to accentuate the grandeur of a larger living space while simultaneously providing an elegant backdrop to any surrounding decor or furniture. There are often times when large, open areas can have a bit of an “institutional” feel about them, and these sconces can break up this space while providing an inviting ambiance during the evening hours.

The Environmental Advantage

In the past, properly lighting an airy or well-ventilated home was a concern due to the amount of energy consumption. Thankfully, we live in an era that offers many environmentally-friendly options when choosing a lighting fixture. For instance, energy efficient table lamps are very popular and are an effective way to break up the space of a large room while providing warm accents to the tables and furniture that may be nearby. These and other cost-effective fixtures make lighting a larger home easier and cheaper than ever before.

Finally, it must be remembered that proper lighting does not only provide a sense of warmth and comfort, but it also serves to accent and showcase any other interior decor.

Beautiful interior inspiration from photographer James Baigrie

South African photographer James Baigrie creates eye-catching interior photography that is stimulating to the senses and leaves you feeling very inspired. James has been shooting stunning editorial, commercial and catalog work for more than 15 years with clients like Pottery Barn, Martha Stewart Living, Crate & Barrel, Food & Wine and more. James’s idea of the perfect day for a photography shoot is a mixture of food, kids and interiors in a beautiful setting. Talented stylists and a competent art director also help in the equation, along with stunning natural light completed by 5PM.

Here is a biography on the talented photographer, “I was born in South Carolina and raised in Cape Town under an African sky. In 1994 I moved to New York City in search of adventure. New York taught me to work hard, remain focused on my goals and to constantly push my creative boundaries. I lived and worked in New York City for 15 years. Inevitably I was drawn to the west coast and its wide open spaces and spectacular waves. I now live with my beautiful wife and two sons among the redwoods of Northern California. I call this home. I love to surf, ride mountain bikes, catch fish, camp in remote places, travel in Africa and grown my own food. Most of all, I love photography.”

Completely renovated first apartment in Tel Aviv

After receiving some positive feedback on the DIY-inspired home we featured here, we decided to feature another unique home that was designed by an industrial design student who is just 27 years old and lives in Tel Aviv, Israel. Ron Benshoshan and his girlfriend had just purchased their first apartment and the place was in need of a major overhaul, so they decided to do all the renovations themselves. The 65 square meters apartment was built in the 70’s, the couple wished to have a contemporary yet functional design that is attractive and comfortable. With a limited budget and a short time frame, the project was daunting as everything needed to be replaced. Due to the budgetary constraints, it led the couple in a new direction, consisting of hand crafting and building the majority of the items that are featured in the project. It took approximately two months to complete.

Here is a description of the project from the homeowners, “In short we re-did the whole place: Tore down the wall in the kitchen opening it up to the living room and dining area. United the bathroom making one long and spacious bathroom. Made the bedroom bigger by closing an indoor balcony. A bar that comes out of the wall. I personally designed and built most of the items seen in the pictures: Large wall clock, floating unit below the TV, round table and red chairs, table, pipe lamp and the cats playing area which is hung in the red room, faucet in the bathroom, wooden bar, lights in the living room (with red cords)
bed and side table in bedroom.”  Via

Be sure to take a look at the before pictures at the bottom of the page to get an idea of how much work went into creating this incredible space! If you want to see more images with before and after’s, be sure to check out Ron’s website here. Please leave us some feedback on what you think of this project. What was your favorite part of the design? Anything that didn’t work for you?

PHOTOS PRIOR TO RENOVATION:

Photos: Ron Benshoshan

Chic DIY-inspired loft home in Los Angeles

Today we are bringing you something a little different from our usual posts here on 1 Kindesign. After scouring the internet for interesting and unique finds we fell on this unique Los Angeles home that is chalk full of DIY-inspired design that is so full of life. It is very inspiring and original and we enjoyed it so much that we wanted to share it with you! Here is some background information from the owner himself, Adam Pogue, who also has a fun instagram page entitled mrpoguemahone.

“I moved to Downtown LA three years ago and have never met my landlord. I responded to a craigslist ad that had been posted for a while. He gave me the code to the lock box and I would come here at different times of day, or night, and just hang out. I moved from a duplex in Boyle Heights that was kind of classic LA. It had an original Batchelder tile fireplace and built-ins and pocket doors, which were amazing, but I felt like I needed to respect those details and create space around them. I ended up wanting a space that wasn’t so specific, so I loaded my Scion Xb and headed over the bridge.

The space has gone through several transformations in the last few years. For a time, I had an IKEA bookshelf separating the “bedroom” from the rest of the space. I replaced that with curtain panels that I sewed together and dip-dyed. They’re not a solid separation, but they create an intimate space that feels separate.

I also created the rolling ottoman and benches for the TV and under the windows. The ottoman is upholstered in dyed black canvas and has a washable quilted top (I have two cats). The benches are 10′ x 12′ dark stained Doug fir on plumbing pipe frames. They used to be stacked with books on the lower level and the TV on top, but I wanted a bench, so I separated them. The wall behind the TV is stucco on masonry. I’m not so comfortable with hanging things in masonry, so my boyfriend (at the time) had painted a beautiful chevron pattern, which I recently re-painted.

I got the couch in an “as-is” section of a local shop like 10 years ago for $150. It’s huge and comfortable and I like the shape of it, so when it needed an update (and re-upholstering was too pricey) I ended up patch-working over the original upholstery. It took me a year of random hours with scrap fabric and spare time to cover most of the visible surfaces. I recently started re-covering the re-covering.

I also ended up painting the credenza and replaced the legs with wheels so I can easily roll it away for projects, or gatherings, that require more space. I originally made the hanging above the bed as a knotted fleece rug and the sconces on either side are upside-down plant pots with rope-wrapped wiring.

I found the glass coffee table and my workspace shelving at St. Vincent de Paul’s (amazing thrift store) for $85 altogether. The desk and the bench (between the “bedroom”) I got at a vintage shop, and used The Brick House refinishing method. And the plants! Some I’ve had for years, but most are from clippings. The stacked plants in the living room are attached to a drainpipe from the roof through the apartment

As for the rest, I try to choose things I love. I generally enjoy old, handmade and well-designed pieces. I set aside spaces for things that are sentimental. Kind of shrines in a way.”

Please enjoy the tour and don’t forget to leave us your thoughts about this unique home at the bottom of the post! If you have a home that you just remodeled or that you feel is very unique in design and you would to share with us, please contact us here.

Photos: Old Brand New Blog

Stunning modern update to Berlin’s Das Stue Hotel

The Das Stue Hotel in Berlin, Germany was recently reinvigorated by Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola who gave this hotel a major modern facelift, designing all public spaces such as the lobby, cocktail bar and restaurants. LVG Arquitectura finished the project by implementing their own final touches in the interior rooms and suite designs. The color combinations of amber, burnt orange, and deep teal are combined in just the right amounts to create beautiful harmony. The hotel is a stunning merger between contemporary and classical, creating a very inviting space that will make you feel right at home.

Most popular bedrooms on 1 Kindesign of 2012

 House of seventeen balconies infused with eclectic charm

 Today we present to you a collection of the most fabulous bedrooms that have been showcased throughout the year of 2012 here on 1 Kindesign. These bedrooms were selected based on popularity through several social media sites. All of the bedrooms are featured in beautiful houses and retreats throughout the world. There are links under each bedroom in case you want to refresh your memory of where the bedroom belongs. Bedrooms are our favorite retreats in our home and are one of the most sought out pictures for design inspiration. We hope you enjoy looking through the pictures, with bedrooms ranging from contemporary and modern to tropical oasis. Here is to you having some Kozee Sleep in one of these fabulous and dreamy bedrooms!

Rustic retreat with an industrial edge in Big Sky

Industrial chic loft with open-plan interiors in NoHo

Monastery transformed into charming mountain refuge

Chic New York Style Warehouse Home In Brisbane

Industrial chic loft in historic Gastown district

 Algarrobos House resting on steel and wood beams

 Fabulous concrete and glass eco-resort

 Ultimate getaway on the Balinese coast

 Whidbey Island barn conversion

 Stunning contemporary beach house retreat

 Impressive bright and sunny residence in Cádiz

 Beautiful Casa Mecano in the Osa Peninsula

 Exceptional steam punk-inspired pad in Chelsea

 Beautifully restored refuge in Costa Brava

Exquisite Barcelona apartment built for book lovers

Contemporary resort style home in Fig Tree Pocket

 Carpinteria Foothills Residence with coastal views

 Alpine dream cabin in the French Mountains

Rustic mountain cabin retreat in Big Sky

Imposing house in Cadiz dominated by art

Tropical retreat in the South-Indian Countryside

 Beautifully adorned farmhouse in Jämtland

Fabulous rustic farmhouse in Italy

Functional yet stylish 40 square meters Swedish flat

Fabulous luxury island getaway to Barbados

Breathtaking steel and glass penthouse

Fabulous retreat in the Mallorcan countryside

Sicilian farmhouse overlooking the Mediterranean Sea

Beyond incredible fantasy house in London

Contemporary forest retreat filled with light

Otter Cove Residence gripping the cliffs of Carmel

Old warehouse converted into fabulous urban home

Casual luxe weekend beach refuge in Seaview

Breathtakingly romantic Sextantio Hotel in Italy

Striking rammed earth dwelling in the countryside

Luxurious Song Saa Private Island retreat

Small home with a clever layout on Sauvie Island

A sleek urban loft in Barcelona

Luxury Provencal hideaway on the Bay of St. Tropez

Blissful retreat in an idyllic seaside setting

Stunning contemporary beach house retreat

Montana ranch home exuding rustic modern style

That concludes our roundup of the whole year of 2012′s most popular bedroom designs that were featured on 1 Kindesign. Hope you enjoyed this post, please let us know which one was your favorite!

This article was sponsored by Bedstardirect

Moss Mountain Farm: An Arkansas holiday home

Moss Mountain Farm is a country estate overlooked the Arkansas River, located near Little Rock, Arkansas and can only be described as the ‘garden home for the holidays’. The Greek Revival-style home was decorated by homeowner and designer P. Allen Smith. The owner has holiday open houses every year; anyone can stop by and see the farm completely decorated for the season. The designer also has smaller gatherings with friends and family for dinner parties. The designer has an important decorating philosophy that he likes to abide by when decorating for the holidays, which is that the holiday decor must work with the existing décor in the home. It is about celebrating the spirit of the season and traditional colors do not necessarily need to be used. The designer instead likes to looks for colors and ideas that will work harmoniously with the interior of the home.

The color palette he uses is mixing dark chocolate browns with chartreuse greens, which pops against natural greens. He gathers together natural items from around the farm to incorporate into his decorating scheme, which are earthy browns and greens as well as other more subtle colors, such as Eastern Red Cedar, which has blue berries, as well as magnolia branches, brown leaves of bracken, mosses and lichens, assorted sizes of pine cones and native deciduous holly with red berries. He also mixes fruits and vegetables into the décor, some grown on the farm and others picked up from the grocery store, such as artichokes, kumquats and pomegranates. Last year he used Satsuma oranges added with a few camellia leaves to a grouping, which resembles the foliage of an orange. After the holidays, he uses the oranges to make marmalade so nothing goes to waste.

His holiday decorating always encompasses using items he already has and adding what he can collect and gather together on the farm. Anything additional he needs he seeks out at a craft or discount store, or even a second-hand shop. He prefers the juxtaposition of something earthy and natural alongside something that is shiny and glamorous. The hardware throughout the home is polished nickel, so he tends to utilize silver as the metallic accent rather than brass or gold. Those small details create harmony, which is an element that cannot be identified, only felt. The designer warms up rooms with family traditions of by switching out pillows, slipcovers and some art. Via

A twelve foot fresh cut tree lies in the parlor, one where you can see the trunk, and where the limbs are open and layered so ornaments are visible, as well as a more natural, unclipped look, rather than one that has been shaped. His hope is that visitors will be inspired to re-create some of the decorating ideas in their own homes and gardens, that they have an experience that inspires and instructs.

Photos:  Nancy Nolan