home design don'ts

5 Home Design Don’ts

I love everything about design – including learning new skills and tricks of the trade!

Along the way, I’ve also learned what NOT to do. These don’ts apply to any type of home design, whether you are flipping a house from top to bottom, renovating a historic home, or simply remodeling a few rooms. 

Keep reading to learn what you shouldn’t do when designing your home!

1. Don’t be afraid of color.

Neutrals ranging from gray to off-white to tan are popular choices. And with good reason – neutrals are timeless, can make a room appear larger, and go with just about any type of decor. This does not mean you have to stay away from color! Adding a pop of color on an accent wall, kitchen island, or even small decor items can brighten up any space and take away from the monotony of neutrals. 

2. Don’t forget to look up. 

Lighting accents can become a focal point of any room.  In fact, light fixtures can set the decorative tone of any space. Statement pieces are bold and beautiful, while recessed lighting can create a more minimalistic feel. 

3. Don’t underestimate the power of tile. 

When it comes to tile, the choices are endless. The versatility of tile allows you to use it as flooring or a decorative backsplash. I love incorporating tile into newly designed spaces! Add a tile backsplash in your bathroom or kitchen for a pop of color or visual separation from the countertop or wall. With countless options in color, material, texture, and shape, tile becomes a focal statement with the ability to bring any room to life. 

4. Don’t think inside the box. 

Who says lockers are only for schools? These lockers were an incredible find at Monger’s Market, and helped create a perfect space for cleaning up and getting ready after at day outside. If you see something you love, think outside the box and figure out how to incorporate it!

5. Don’t throw everything in the dumpster. 

Sometimes, when you walk into a run-down home, the first reaction is to toss everything out. But even in the worst situations, there are timeless pieces that can be salvaged and reused. These two doors were saved during total renovations, and made incredible additions to the finished space!

Do you have any design questions you want answered? Let me know in the comments!

residences at 66 high street

First up: Residences at 66 High Street

You may have already heard the news: my first project with the Social REdesign is in a brand new unit at the Residences at 66 High Street. 

What you don’t know is how incredibly special this is for me. residences

Not just because it’s the first design in this new venture, but because I am working with a group of industry professionals with the same passion for excellence and quality as me. The team at the Horton Group, including Interior Designer Maryellen Sullivan, is one I’ve gotten to know well over the years. The opportunity for us to design a new unit with all of YOU is indescribable. 

Hometown Pride

I’m a Guilford girl. Always have been. 

Guilford is a unique community on the Connecticut shoreline. Filled with local shops and restaurants, many owned by town residents, the Town Green brings people together year after year. With a train station for easy access to cities, a small-town feel, and beaches and hiking trails all around, it’s quite simply my favorite place.  

When I first heard about the Horton Group’s plan for the old Mill Building at 66 High Street, I was immediately intrigued. Their vision was bold: build the premier luxury development in the state – part historic renovation, part new build – walking distance to downtown. What could be better?

About 66 High Street

The Residences at 66 High Street are a blend of luxury and history – not to mention an incredible location. The first building on site is a beautifully restored mill building. Originally built in 1884, the mill once made everything from lollipops to torpedo switches. I love the original features that remain intact: old mill trusses, refurbished factory lights, brick, and exposed beams.  

Named after Guilford’s original settlers, the Whitefield and Leete are brand new buildings, and the Chittenden is soon to be built. The attention to detail is apparent everywhere: the landscaping, unit finishes, even the hallways. 

Exclusive Listing Agent

Almost three years ago, I became one of the exclusive listing agents for the new development. Working with Kenny Horton and his team, I’ve learned the ins and outs of the property, am familiar with every single unit, and have become part of the special community the residents created. My work at One + Company has helped fill the units with incredible people who love Guilford (almost) as much as I do. 

Award-Winning and Record-Breaking Development

If you haven’t heard about the Residences at 66 High Street yet, get ready to get excited!

Just this month, our latest sale was of the Leete Building penthouse, which broke two New Haven County records for the highest sale for a condo unit (at $3.65 Million) and highest price per square foot (over $912 per square foot). 

In addition, the development has won 10 HOBI Awards since 2016, including Best Luxury Condominium Community, Best Luxury Condominium Unit, Best Luxury Townhouse, and Best Historic Rehab Overall.

Do you see why I’m so excited now?

Starting next week, get ready to help me, Maryellen Sullivan, and the Horton Group design the newest unit in the Leete Building at the Residences at 66 High Street!

Introducing The Social [RE]design

I’m so excited to introduce you to The Social Redesign: a new platform where we can design and learn together. 

What led me here….

Those of you who were part of The House that Social Media Built know my love for design and community. That journey marked an amazing four years of learning, swooning over tile choices (among other design elements!), and connecting with incredible people and businesses in Connecticut and beyond. 

What many of you don’t know is that I do so much more than flips! As a real estate agent with over a decade of experience, I work with builders, developers, and homeowners on a regular basis. 

I realized in the past, I only shared such a small part of what I do. And the desire to share more sparked the next step on my journey.

The Social Redesign

So what is The Social Redesign? It’s a deep dive into all things home design – from dilapidated homes to brand new developments – from mood boards to floor plans. With each new project, I’m inviting you to join by voting on your elements and watch your vision come to life.

But that’s not all. 

I receive so many questions about interior design. And I thought, why not make those questions part of the journey? I’ll be featuring YOUR questions about YOUR homes, and giving you my best insights along the way. 

First Project

Right now, I’m gearing up for the first project for The Social Redesign – a blank slate in an award-winning luxury development at 66 High Street. Join me and the Horton Group team as we turn studs into something spectacular!

Can’t wait to see you there!


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