Kitchen Design for the Efficient Home Chef

Posted on January 30, 2019February 26, 2021 by Dev Bigpxl

Have you ever been frustrated by the limited space and less-than-optimal design of your kitchen? The struggle to finish Christmas dinner with a lack of counter space is an experience many have faced. Luckily, it’s possible to maximize the efficiency of your kitchen with a few design choices. Today, the team at Ellecor Interior Design will share a few ways to turn your cramped cooking area into a model of efficiency.

Designing for Efficiency

One of the first questions we ask our clients is how they use their existing kitchen space, and how would they like to use it? Are you hosting dinner parties? How do you serve your meals? Do you use a family style dinner table or do you spend most of your meals in front of the TV? These choices can have a major impact on the ideal kitchen design for you.

For instance, if you like to serve buffet style from your kitchen island, it would make a lot of sense to create storage room for your plates and silverware in the island rather than across the room.

Related Blog: Maximizing Your Kitchen Space

Remember the Golden Triangle

The age-old concept of the “Golden Triangle” of kitchen design is famous for a reason. Creating adjacent zones to maximize your space and avoid overlap is the ideal way to design a kitchen. For the uninitiated, the golden triangle, or working triangle, refers to a kitchen design goal that places the sink, oven, and fridge connected in a three-point triangle. This creates a corner of your kitchen in which you can prepare, cook and clean, all in a convenient space designed to make life in the kitchen easy. The more counter space you can fit within this area the better.

Create Zones Around Specific Areas

Designing work zones with specific jobs in mind will allow you to place the right tools and design goals in these areas to maximize efficiency. Consider the following zones when designing:

Prep Area – This is where your kitchen workflow starts. This area will be where you gather your cooking ingredients, prep your tools, and cut and measure your ingredients. This is usually best placed directly beside your cooking area/oven to avoid having to move too far when it’s time to cook.
Cook Area – The cooking zone is where your oven, stovetop, and microwave should be. Store your tools in this space, like spoons, spatulas, pots and pans. It is also a great idea to have a seasoning pantry here for ease of access.
Clean-Up – Your sink, dishwasher, and trash should be in this zone. Ideally, you want it near your cooking zone to make clean-up a cinch.
Storage – The storage zone is where you will put everything away. You want your refrigerator and pantry in this zone. Keep your Tupperware, plastics, and foils in this area.

Kitchen design with mindful use of storage, movement and workflow can transform your kitchen into the efficient heart of your home.

Contact Ellecor Interior Design Today

If you are looking to get the most out of your kitchen space with an efficient, stylish design — visit the experts at Ellecor Interior Design today. You can call our team directly at 417-720-2602 or come visit our storefront in Farmer’s Park on East Republic Road in Springfield.

Interior Design Tips for the College Student

Posted on January 23, 2019May 27, 2020 by Dev Bigpxl

Interior Design Tips for the College Student

Nothing is quite as bleak as an undecorated dorm room. Blank white walls with a bunk bed and a few computer desks can start to feel like a prison after a few hours of study time. Just because your dorm room is temporary doesn’t mean you can’t have an inspired, stylish space. Today, the experts at Ellecor Interior Design will share a few tips for dorm room interior design to spruce up your living space!

The Rug Really Ties the Room Together

Stepping on the cold, bare floor in the dead of winter while getting ready for an 8 a.m. class can be enough to make you want to call the whole day off. A throw rug in the middle of your dorm room will add some much-needed texture and warmth. Remember, interior design is supposed to be fun and comfortable. Don’t be afraid to experiment with a few colors and patterns to find what is best for your space.

Invest in Your Lighting

Many dorms feature harsh fluorescent ceiling lighting. This lighting casts a cold, blue light that is hard on your eyes and your room’s style. Instead, opt for floor and desk lamps. This is an inexpensive way to create warm light that makes your room feel more spacious and comfortable.

Show Your Personality on Your Walls

Blank walls are the death of interior design. Decorating your walls will make your room feel larger, and give you the opportunity to really express yourself. Whether it is a poster of your favorite band, pictures of your friends and family, or a print of your favorite Edward Hopper painting, use your walls to show what makes you, you.

Use Curtains and Bedspreads to Add Color

Most dorm rooms do not allow you to paint your walls. As such, many dorm rooms can feel like a sterilized doctor’s office. Your curtains and bedspread are one of the few places you can really add color to your room.

Visit Ellecor Interior Design for Inspiration

Following the above steps will have you on your way to a beautiful, stylish dorm room. If you want to truly create an amazing dorm room design, we’d love for you to visit and come talk with us. Ellecor Interior Design is located in Farmer’s Park on Republic Road in Springfield, Missouri, and we’re always happy to have college students visit. Or if you just have questions, contact us directly at 417-720-2602!

Common Bathroom Remodel Mistakes to Avoid

Posted on January 16, 2019May 27, 2020 by Dev Bigpxl

Whether you’re updating an outdated bathroom style or you’re renovating your entire space, a bathroom remodel can turn into a nightmare without the proper planning and execution. Read on to learn about some of the more common mistakes to avoid during your next bathroom renovation.

Common Bathroom Remodel Mistakes

Lack of a solid plan – Perhaps the worst thing you can do is go into your remodel flying by the seat of your pants. Make a plan that accounts for the materials you will need, your potential costs, and your personal taste.
Not discussing major renovations with a professional – If you are planning on moving fixtures, plumbing, or any other major renovations, it is crucial that you discuss your plans with a professional. Everything from the location of your doors, windows, plumbing, and electric wiring can significantly impact your remodel. A professional designer can ensure that things run as smoothly as possible and save you thousands of dollars in work.
Failing to set aside reserve funds – No matter how thorough a plan you have, unexpected costs will always arise during a bathroom remodel. If you don’t reserve funds for emergencies, you may find yourself in a situation where you can’t finish your renovations. Set aside around 15% of your remodeling budget for emergencies. If you need it you’ll be glad you did, if you don’t you can treat yourself for a job well done!
Factor function into your material selection – When shopping for materials, the most important factor to keep in mind is if they can stand up to the stress of daily use. Many people don’t realize the stress we put on our bathroom. Moisture and temperature changes can be devastating to the wrong materials. Nothing is worse after a remodel than spending thousands on materials only to find your new vanity warping and your wallpaper peeling.
Ignoring small mistakes – Even the smallest mistakes in your bathroom remodel may result in serious annoyance down the line. During your remodel, be sure to address even small mistakes, otherwise, you’ll notice them every time you use the space.

Contact the Experts at Ellecor Interior Design Today

If you are contemplating a remodel of a room in your home, trust the experts at Ellecor Interior Design. Our team is dedicated to exceeding our customer’s design expectations. Call our team at (417) 720-2602 or come visit us today in Farmer’s Park in Springfield, Missouri.

Curating An Interior Design Collection

Posted on January 7, 2019February 5, 2021 by Dev Bigpxl

At Ellecor, we source the most unique items to help you achieve your design dreams. Curating a collection is time-consuming. It requires attention to detail, focus, and an understanding of aesthetic. How do we select the items that we offer? Keep reading to find out more. Our team has years of combined experience, and we are happy to share that experience with you!

Understanding Our Community

We understand the unique culture of Springfield, Missouri, and we are so glad that we chose this community. We appreciate the comforts of the Midwest and enjoy combining rustic elements like hardwoods and antique elements with sharp and innovative design elements that are reminiscent of the East and West Coast.

Keeping Design In Mind

We are constantly taking stock of new trends in the industry. We are adapting and developing our products daily in order to ensure that we are providing our customers with the best of furniture, design, and decor items. We ensure you that you will find something unique and interesting every time that you visit us. Every item in our store is hand-picked.

Providing Top Quality Products

We only choose to partner with companies that we believe in. If the quality of an item is sub-par, you won’t find it in our store. We specialize in providing reclaimed wood-home furnishings that add a rustic authenticity to any room. We also provide several modern pieces.

Related Blog: 4 Benefits of Custom Furniture

Connect With Ellecor

We would love for you to stop in and shop our collection. Feel free to contact us online or call us at (417)720-2602. We have taken significant time to prepare collections that will suit a wide array of tastes, and that are dynamic enough to help reshape your space. Our collections are always growing and changing, so feel free to stop in and shop with us today!

The Holiday Home

Posted on December 24, 2018February 6, 2021 by Dev Bigpxl

If you are planning on hosting any family gatherings this holiday season, you know that time is of the essence! In this blog, Ellecor Interior Design explains how you can use your existing decor in order to make your home holiday-ready!

Use What You Have

Before you run out to the store, take a look at your existing decor. Look for rich colors, and pay close attention to any decorative pieces you have that have motifs like elk, deer, pine trees, cardinals, snowflakes, or berry bushes. You can use those pieces to help create your overall holiday vision.

Pick A Color Scheme

If you are more drawn to icy blues and bright whites than greens and reds, use them! You will probably have more of those colors in your year-long decor anyway. Do not be afraid to experiment with the addition of silvers and golds to brighten any room. Metallic surfaces reflect candlelight and can add to the overall ambiance you are building.

Create Calm

In a season of chaos, you and your guests can both appreciate a clean and calm environment. Try using candles and lamps in the place of overhead lights. This will give any room a cozy feeling. If you have little ones who might be roaming about, it is a good idea to use flameless candles that have LED lights in them to make them fire safe. Use lots of folded blankets to change the color scheme of your standard furniture. Remember that your friends and family will be happy to be with you for the holidays and that any environment you create will be wonderful!

Contact Ellecor Today

If you feel that your home could use a revamp, contact Ellecor today! We provide a full range of interior design services and work with your unique needs, tastes, and ideas. Contact us online today or call us at (417) 720-2602.

DIY Design Ideas

Posted on December 17, 2018February 5, 2021 by Dev Bigpxl

It can be very fun to update your home from time to time, but it can also be a bit of a process. In this blog, Ellecor Interior Design guides you through five simple DIYs that will have your home looking great in no time!

1. Tape Picture Frames

Do you have a wall in your home that is bare and boring? Spice it up a bit with tape picture frames. First, purchase a few rolls of Washi tape that are in patterns or color schemes that you enjoy and that you believe work with your current decor. Next, print a few images from your personal photo collection and apply them to the blank wall of your choice using paint safe tape. Frame the images with the Washi tape. Keep a small space between the edge of the print and the tape itself to add some contrast.

2. Pom-Pom Runner

Pom-pom runners can be used to make an older table look trendier, and can even be hung up on the wall or draped across the back of a chair or a couch to add a fun statement. Go to your local craft store and purchase two or three bags of pom-poms. Purchase two rolls of twine. Using a hot glue gun, apply the pom-poms along the twine about two inches apart. Be careful not to burn your fingers. Now place the pom-pom runner in an area of your home that needs some color and enjoy!

3. Permanent Chalkboard Sign

Buy a small chalkboard from your local craft store. Purchase some white acrylic paint. Use a piece of paper and a pencil to determine your design. Take your pencil and trace the design onto the chalkboard in pencil. Use a paintbrush and the acrylic paint to paint over the top of the design. Allow to dry fully. Your Chalkboard now has a permanent design!

4. Gold Accents

Are you into gold lately? Do you want your furniture to look a bit more modernized and a bit trendier? Purchase a small container of gold paint. Using a two or three-inch thick paintbrush, paint the legs of your older furniture. Allow your first coat to dry, and then reapply. Not only does this simple trick update your furniture and help tie your rooms together, and it also hides any scrapes or scuffs that can come with age.

5. Modern Twig Arrangement

To update the classic table centerpiece, all you need is some gold paint, a jar or vase, and some twigs from your yard! Go outside and gather twenty or so fallen twigs. Use warm water and a paper towel to clean off the dirt. Allow them to dry. Once they are dry, completely cover one side of them in the paint and allow that to dry. Then apply the paint to the other side of the twigs. If you want to add a bit more gold, try painting the jar or vase that the sticks are displayed in.

Contact Ellecor

Even after using DIYs to update your home, you may still want to seek the assistance of a professional. Ellecor has been assisting clients with interior design solutions since 2013. From simple design inspiration to complex project assistance, the Ellecor team can help you style your home in a way that suits your needs, and takes into account your unique tastes. Contact us online today or call (417) 720-2602.

Awkwardly Shaped Spaces – Interior Design – Ellecor

Posted on December 17, 2018May 27, 2020 by Dev Bigpxl

It would be nice if every room was simply laid out and easy to decorate. However, occasionally, you come across a living room that is oddly shaped. Find some tips below to help you decorate an oddly designed living room layout.

Create Symmetry in the Space

If you’re decorating a room that is odd and asymmetrical, then try to create a little bit of symmetry with the décor. This could be something as simple as creating a symmetrical gallery wall or placing two comfortable sitting chairs in a symmetrical position. It doesn’t have to be anything big, but creating a little bit of symmetry will help bring the space together.

You’ll Need Creative Storage

If your space is oddly shaped or very small, you’ll need to be creative with your storage. Consider a built-in entertainment center if you have a long wall. This can double as storage space. The last thing you want is for your small space to feel cluttered and overwhelming. Keep things simple and tidy!

Make Sure Furniture Pieces Can Multitask

Again, if your space is small or awkward, it is a good idea to have furniture that can be many things. Maybe consider getting an ottoman instead of a coffee table that way it can double as seating if you have guests. You could also consider a coffee table that has storage space in it. The possibilities are endless when it comes to clever pieces that are both beautiful and functional!

Keep Your Color Palette Simple

In a space that has a busy design or is very small, it’s good practice to employ a simple color palette. You can add pops of color, but your main pieces should be pleasant and natural. This will make the space feel calmer and larger.

Let Ellecor Help!

Some spaces are challenging and require the intervention of a professional interior designer. Luckily for you, Ellecor has a team of incredible interior designers who are ready and able to help you turn an awkward space into a dreamy living room setup. Contact us today to find out more about how we can help you!

Interior Design With Bohemian Style Decor by Ellecor

Posted on December 3, 2018February 26, 2021 by Dev Bigpxl

Your décor should always reflect your personality. So, for our more free-spirited readers, we’ve decided to write a blog about how to design the perfect bohemian master bedroom. If you’re a fan of bright color and interesting texture, this interior design trend will be right up your alley. Read on to discover our tips for creating a dream bohemian oasis!

Use String Lights

Soft light is a hallmark of the bohemian style. With all the bright, busy colors and texture of the style, you want to keep the lighting soft and relaxing. String lights add a feeling of romance and magic to any space. String them behind sheet curtains or hang them across your ceiling. Wherever you put them, they’ll most certainly enhance the space.

Include Lots of Patterns and Color

If you want to truly capture the spirit of a bohemian interior design project, then be bold with your color and pattern choices. Ignore all of the rules you previously learned about not using patterns that clash in the same room. A brightly colored rug mixed with an equally bright and patterned bedspread is a perfect place to start. Don’t shy away from wild patterns. Embrace them!

Add Texture

Add depth and comfort to your bohemian room by layering lots of different textures in the space. Plush blankets, soft comforters and fuzzy rugs will cozy-up a brightly colored space. As with the colors, don’t shy away from mixing a multitude of textures in the space. Go wild!

Related Blog: Types of Faux Painting

Mix and Match

If there’s one thing that a Bohemian bedroom shouldn’t be it’s super matchy. Embrace the free spirit within and stop trying to make everything perfectly match and coordinate. Bohemian style is about a multitude of seemingly conflicting patterns and colors coming together to create something fascinating. Throw caution to the wind and let your free spirit take over!

Let Ellecor Help!

If you need a little bit of help unleashing the Bohemian artist within, give Ellecor a call. We have a team of phenomenal interior design experts who would be thrilled to help you make your Boho dreams come true. Contact us today!

Ellecor & Interior Design Tips for Cozy Minimalism

Posted on November 26, 2018February 26, 2021 by Dev Bigpxl

Cozy minimalism is a rising trend in the interior design world. This trend is essentially the halfway point between harsh minimalism and a busier interior design trend. You don’t want your house to be cluttered, but you also don’t want it to feel like an operating room. The idea behind cozy minimalism is to focus on both comfort and functionality. Read on to find out more about how to curate a cozy minimalist look in your own home!

Curate a Functional Base

Get the basics right! Invest in pieces of furniture that will fit the function of the room. Build your room around simple and sleek pieces. If you’re designing a living room, your couch (which is the piece of furniture that expresses the function of the room) should be the focal point. Everything else in the room should focus on enhancing that space and highlighting its function. Function is king in a minimalist design!

Quality Over Quantity

Instead of spending money on lots of cheap décor that can end up making your home look cluttered, invest in high-quality pieces of décor that enhance the space without overwhelming it. Spend time curating your collection of décor so that you don’t end up with extraneous ornamentation.

Add in Some Texture

A great way to make a minimalist design feel cozy is to add texture to your space. You can do this by adding a fuzzy area rug. Also, a few blankets draped over chairs and couches will give the space a soft, inviting feel.

Don’t Forget to Accessorize

Cozy minimalism doesn’t call for a rejection of all accessories. Rather, you should carefully choose your pieces so that each one adds something to the space. Choose minimal accessories so as not to make the space feel cluttered. Use things like throw pillows or wall art to add pops of color to your simple design. If you forgo accessories altogether the room will feel sterile, so choose a handful of pieces that speak to your sense of cozy style.

Let Ellecor Help!

If you feel lost with your attempts to implement a cozy minimalist interior design, let the incredible interior designers at Ellecor help! Come talk to one of our team members, and they’ll be able to help you draw up a design that you’ll fall in love with. Contact us today to set up an appointment!

Interior Design from Ellecor: How To Decorate For Fall

Posted on September 25, 2018May 27, 2020 by Dev Bigpxl

Interior Design Ideas for Fall Decor from Ellecor

Fall is just around the corner which means that the whole world will soon be colorful and crisp. It also means that it’s time to bring out your fall decor and make your house cozy for the season. Whether you prefer pillows, blankets, flowers or candles, the warm colors of autumn are perfect accents for your interior design. Your fireplace can finally come out of hibernation and add a calming glow to your living room aesthetic.

If you’re not sure where to start with making your home an adorable autumn retreat, read our Ellecor Interior Design blog to discover some fantastic tips and tricks. We’ll help you update your home for the season!

Decorate Your Door

When you’re transforming your home for fall, you should start with your front door! Adorn the entrance to your home with a fun fall wreath. Natural elements such as vibrant flowers and autumn leaves are a perfect way to add fall colors to your wreath. You might even consider painting your door a fun festive color for the season.

Embrace the Colors of the Season

Autumn has such a rich palette of vibrant colors, which means you have so many colors to choose from when decorating your home. You don’t have to go with the traditional fall colors either. If cooler colors fit your style better, then go that route. There are decor options for every palette!

Bring Out The Pumpkins

Pumpkins are such a classic decorative piece for the fall season. They make an excellent display for your front porch or as a centerpiece indoors. You can opt for real pumpkins for your outside decor and artificial pumpkins in your home. You can buy them in all sorts of fun fall colors!

Show Your Mantel Some Love

Your mantel is a focal point of your living room, so it deserves a little love this fall season. You can add some fun leafy garlands, some colorful little pumpkins, or several small potted flowers in the sunset colors of autumn. Whatever you prefer, make sure that your mantle really pops, because it will draw your design together and capture the eye of your guests.

Use Colorful Centerpieces

Centerpieces are a great way to add some color and festivity to any room. It could even be something as simple as pumpkins and a couple of fall scented candles on your coffee table. Or you could make an arrangement with brightly colored fall leaves. Either way, a centerpiece is an easy and fun way to spruce things up in your home!

Bring Fall to Your Walls

There will be no shortage of fall wall hangings during the fall season. So, take down some of your year-round wall hangings and spruce up your decor with some autumn themed wall decor. Feature those warm fall colors. Your home will feel so cozy!

Let Ellecor Interior Design Help You Decorate!

We have so much to offer at Ellecor Interior Design! Not only do we have an array of fun and unique decor, we also provide interior design services. If you find yourself in need of some help setting up your seasonal decor, or if you’re thinking about a complete interior design overhaul of your home, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services or come shop in store for some inspiring decor!