Designer Spotlight with Grace!

I joined the DRH team in the fall of 2018 and I have already learned so much. While my role is on the social media side of things, and less on the design, I still practice design and learn from my amazing co-workers. One of my favorite features to include in nearly any design, is a gallery wall.

A gallery wall, when done properly, can entirely transform a space. It can transform the space if it is the only thing that is done, or as an addition to a fully redesign. I admire that something this simple can change the aesthetic of a space, and it is one of my favorite inexpensive ways to dress a space. Let’s talk about how to properly execute a gallery wall!

First of all, Have fun with the layout!
As humans we are inherently drawn to symmetry, though that is a rule that I feel, is meant to be broken. Take this as an opportunity to represent who you are. Family pictures, artwork, black and white, color, prints- include it all. To me, the more pieces the more unique the installation. It doesn’t have to be pieces that are identical or even from the same artist, as long as the framing is cohesive it will look perfectly imperfect. Here is a great guide on various layouts (including symmetrical ones for all the rule-followers out there!)

Source

Mix up the pieces!
Don’t be afraid to include eclectic pieces that aren’t considered “standard” wall art. I love to take framed artworks and match them with wall decor, instead of having to choose between one or the other!

Play with the levels!
A gallery wall can take up the whole wall, floor-to-ceiling, just half of the wall above a piece of furniture, a section of the wall where it’s empty. The point is- make it your own! Do what makes you happy, what reflects your personal style, and how you want to display it. Here are some ideas of the leveling you can play with.

6 Spring Refresh Tips for 2019

Despite the mild weather we had this winter in New England, all of us at Darby Road are so excited for Spring and nice weather! Spring is the best time to clean out your home, refresh your decor and get ready for the summer! Here are some of our tips on how to rejuvenate your home to reflect the growth and change a new season brings.

1. Throw Pillows! Swap out those old, dark throw pillows and refresh with some new brighter ones! Or patterned, if you’re feeling particularly wild! This is a great way to refresh an entire room, without breaking the budget.

2. New Bedding! Another easy, budget-friendly tip. Swap out your heavy winter duvet, for a light and airy spring one! Try a lighter color, some floral patterns, or a lighter linen.

“Make It A Double” $1130

3. Artwork This is one of my favorite things to change out- It’s a bit more of an expensive option, but it makes a massive difference. Spring is all about bright colors and freshness, so adding new artwork, or swapping out the artwork you do already have- is a great way to dress up your space and make a big impact.

4. Renovation Time! Have room in your budget for a renovation? Now is the perfect time to do it! Whether you choose to go the D.I.Y route, or the professional route, this is the best time to re-imagine your space. This way, it’s done for all the fabulous summer parties you’ll throw!

5. De-clutter, Organize & Purge! It’s time to get rid of all that old junk you’ve been hanging onto and make room for new things! Whether it’s your closet, your pantry, your living room, or your basement; Take a day and go through each space, deciding what pieces to keep and what pieces to donate.

6. Flowers & Plants Bring spring into your home through fresh flowers and plants. If you’re not the best plant-parent or maybe you have allergies, try some succulents, they’re fairly easy to care for and are a great addition to liven up a space! I love bringing in air-purifying plants into my space this time of year.

Now you’re ready for the warm months! If you try out any of these tips, let us know on Instagram @darbyroadhome! We’d love to see what you do.