HomeHome Sellers July 29, 2024

Useful Tips from a Local Interior Designer

Whether you’re wanting to update your home or you’re preparing to sell it, you’ll probably benefit from working with an interior designer. While there are many great local interior designers, we know that some of our agents here at our Windermere Bainbridge Island office are fans of Kim McCall Design, so we connected with Kim and her team to learn some tips of the trade.  

Tell us about your team & the history of Kim McCall Design. How did you get started?

I am fortunate to have a talented, diverse team. We came together over the years with a shared passion for creating beautiful spaces.

I started my design practice in 2005 and my staging business began organically during the housing market crisis in 2008. The market was flooded with inventory and agents were looking to differentiate their listings and make them stand out. To help agents I provided consultations with their clients to prepare their homes for sale, and the rest is history! 

Since then, we have grown into 3 warehouses with vast inventory for staging and a thriving interior design practice. 

What interior design styles or trends are you seeing a lot of right now?

Clean, modern design in architecture, furniture, lighting, and plumbing is popular now. More smart home capabilities: programmable LED lighting, heating/cooling, security systems, and window coverings can all be controlled through a phone.  

Are there any interior designer myths that you commonly hear?

The myth is that an interior designer comes into your home and imposes their own sense of style. Most clients know what they like but don’t know how to achieve their vision. I get to know my clients on a personal level to understand their wants and needs. 

I simplify the process and guide them on a curated journey with the goal of elevating their home within their budget. I offer streamlined ideas and options that bring forth the client’s vision in an unexpected way. My goal is to make their house feel like their home.

What are a couple of ways people can refresh their home without spending a great deal?

Don’t be afraid to move furniture and art throughout your home. Sometimes, the smallest changes have a big impact on how we feel about our space. Many people hang their art too high. To achieve a gallery look, start by lowering your art to eye level height. Pair down by storing some of your collectibles and rotating your items on display. 

Which local vendors, suppliers, or shops do you love to utilize?

Furnish Bainbridge, Tasdemir Rugs, Eagle Harbor Window Coverings, Modest Home, Mallory Paint Store, Conservatory Coastal Home, Clark Construction, Cogwheel Construction…This is just a short list we have so many great local options!

What home remodeling projects are the most popular right now? And why do you think this is?

Kitchen and bathroom remodel projects are the most popular. The kitchen is the heart of the home and serves as a gathering place for family and guests to enjoy. Bathrooms are a private space to unwind. I like to find a balance between form and function by pairing beautiful finishes with luxury appliances and fixtures.

Are there any interior designer social media accounts that inspire or excite you?

There are so many people that inspire me, to name a few: Amber Interiors, Studio McGee, Amy Storm & Company.

What’s one design secret that you can share with us?

Use plants and organic elements to soften spaces and add visual interest. Adding texture with rugs, textiles and accents can help to create a layered harmonious space.

 

Thanks Kim & team! For more ideas, check out our article about home decor inspiration, which features some great local finds.