Design

PART ONE: My Secret to Creating a High-End Aesthetic

I’m often asked about my secret for crafting a luxurious aesthetic in interior design, but without breaking the bank. It’s a common misconception that you need a fat wallet for a high-end look. Well, good news — you don’t! Clients regularly task me with delivering that elevated, chic vibe, but here’s the kicker: it’s not about splurging on every piece. Trust me, there’s an art to balancing where to splurge and where to save. If you stick with me, I’ll spill my secrets on achieving that designer, bougie style without drowning your budget.

Alright, buckle up for the first few game-changers to elevate your space! No need for a total overhaul! Just sprinkle in some of these touches, and watch your room undergo a Pinterest-worthy transformation. Stay tuned next week for Part 2, where I’ll unveil the remaining trio. Now let’s get started on creating that picture-perfect vibe!

 

Elevate the Aesthetic with Window Magic

Source: Kate Marker Interiors

Let’s talk game-changer number one: Window Coverings. Don’t sleep on the impact of this underrated element! Whether you opt for custom or explore online resources, the key is reaching for the stars – go high with those panels. Hang them close to the ceiling or on a ceiling track to add height and a touch of grandeur. Trust me, the transformation is real! Check out some examples where the rod meets the ceiling-wall junction. We also included some of our favorite window covering options that really level up your space: faux linen pinch pleat semi sheer curtains and custom pleated color blocked drapery panels.

Speaking of window coverings, let’s talk wall treatments for a second. It’s crucial to divert from sheetrock walls in order to elevate a space. Embrace alternatives such as wallpaper, wood paneling, tile, plaster, and more. These materials not only transcend the ordinary, but also redefine the ambiance, allowing you to really show off your personal style.

Source: Nickey Kehoe on Instagram

Invest Wisely in Upholstery Elegance to Achieve your Desired Aesthetic

Source: Kristen Panitch interiors

 

I get it — the world of upholstered furniture can be overwhelming. Clients often wonder why they should splurge here. Well, my answer is simple: if you go for a bench-made piece in the U.S. (meaning crafted by a single artisan from start to finish, not an assembly line creation), the investment will pay off. A well-built sofa with performance-grade fabric, custom fills of down and alternative fill will be a timeless piece that can last you a lifetime. Splurge on craftsmanship, opt for a classic profile, and rest assured it will compliment your style wherever life takes you. Get ready to make a statement with your furniture game!

Source: Max Rollitt

Illuminate with Thoughtful Fixtures

Source: Yond Interiors

I’ve been steering away from the abyss of recessed can lighting, and embracing the allure of overhead fixtures instead. Imagine this: wall sconces gracefully highlighting artwork, or strategically placed for that extra touch of ambiance. It’s the subtle accents that work wonders for a space. When planning your room, seek out chances to incorporate decorative lighting. Trust me, it adds intention and thoughtfulness, far surpassing the “swiss cheese” effect of a ceiling full of can lighting. 

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In Part One of our journey to unlock the secrets of a high-end aesthetic without a budget blowout, we’ve explored the power of window coverings, wall treatments, the enduring charm of well-crafted upholstered pieces, and the transformative magic of lighting fixtures. But, this is just the beginning! Stay tuned for Part Two, where I’ll uncover the remaining elements that will have your space feeling fresh and elevated. Ready to take your design game to the next level? Join me next week for more insider tips and tricks!

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Six years ago, Derrick and I found ourselves at a crossroads—he was unemployed at 49, and I was a stay-at-home mom with little job experience. We knew we wanted more out of life, so we took a leap of faith and moved our family from Portland to Bend, Oregon. People thought we were crazy, but we didn’t let that stop us.

One day, as I showed our realtor our Portland home before selling, she asked, “Who did the design work?” When I said, “Me,” she looked me in the eyes and said, “Why aren’t you doing this for a living? People will pay you for this!” It was a sign. Without Derrick’s income, I decided it was now or never. And so, in 2018, Allison Clouser Interiors was born.

Meanwhile, Derrick was also exploring his next chapter. We decided to renovate and sell a fixer-upper, just like we had done over the years with our own homes. It was the beginning of something bigger. 
Our first project in Bend sold in just 20 days, above asking price. Derrick got his contractor’s and realtor’s licenses, and together we launched Clouz Houz in 2021.

Today, we design and renovate homes, combining our talents and passions. The journey hasn’t always been easy, but we’ve learned to embrace change and trust the process. Life may be unpredictable, but it’s never too late to make it what you truly want.

Our motto? Life is Short. Make it Beautiful. 💫 

Whatever stage you’re at, know this: It’s never too late to start over, to follow your passion, and to create the life you deserve. We believe in the power of reinvention—and in the beauty of starting anew.
We have dreamt of what it would be like to build a fire, pour a glass of wine and settle in for the night in this home! And it’s finally happening! It’s almost surreal to be experiencing our first fall here... I remember when I urged Derrick to call the listing broker so we could schedule a viewing. Now just a little over two years has passed and we are living in it the way I dreamt it would be.

When I walk into a home, whether a client’s or one we are viewing for an investment project, I have a way of visualizing immediately all that could happen there. My mind starts racing with ideas and its potential. When we found Tumalo Ranch it was lovingly cared for by it’s previous owners but it needed updating. My job as a designer is to tap into the potential and make the house into a home- suitable for those that live there, or soon to live there! And I love this part of my job... the dreaming and scheming to tell the home’s story is pretty rewarding.

When I sit in here now and look around the room at all the details and plans that went into creating this space I am reminded of why it’s so important to take the time to conceptualize and set the vision. We’ve designed the living room intentionally to make unwinding feel effortless, whether it’s the end of a long day or just a quiet night in. It is our fave corner for relaxing and visiting with family and friends. It is all in the details that make it feel special and inviting: the dim lighting, warm textures, and that perfect spot to kick back in front of the fire. So dream big and don’t discount the little things that can make a big difference on how a room feels and lives.
Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. Family, gathering, food, relaxation. ❤️

Thinking back to my childhood, Thanksgiving always meant an incredible meal prepared by my mom, and it brings back so many cherished memories. Now, I love carrying on that tradition with my own family. Over the years, I’ve found ways to keep things simple yet still beautiful and delicious. Today on the blog, I’m sharing some of my favorite table-setting essentials and tips to make the day as enjoyable as possible.

By the way, has anyone watched the Martha Stewart documentary? So inspiring! I used to joke with my mom that she was “Martha Stewart 2.0,” but honestly—I learned from the best!
Welcome to Tumalo Ranch. This home has been our journey, our vision slowly brought to life, and, honestly, a work in progress every step of the way. When we first set foot here, it was more of a blank canvas than a home a place just waiting to be shaped into something that felt like us.

From the start, we wanted it to be a place where every nook invites you to slow down, and every room carries a little bit of history. Take the kitchen, for example: we decided to skip upper cabinets and bring in open shelving. It was one of those choices that felt risky, but it ended up making that space feel more open, more connected-like everyone who steps in is part of our daily rhythm.

Then there’s the living room, where Lucy lounges in the sun, watching chipmunks through the window. We’ve filled it with little pieces we’ve picked up over the years, each telling its own story. It’s the little quirks like these that make our home feel alive, always evolving just like us.

This is just a first look— a trailer, if you will —of what’s become our sanctuary. There’s so much more to share: the rooms where we’ve celebrated with friends, the quiet corners where we retreat on those long, cozy evenings. Tumalo Ranch is all about creating a home where moments linger a little longer, where imperfections make it feel even more like us.

If you’re curious to see more, stay with us. We’re excited to share this journey and maybe inspire you to dream a little bigger in your own space.
Big things are coming your way this season! Get ready for room reveals, home tours, client project walk-throughs, and so much inspiring holiday content. We’ve been pouring our hearts into these projects behind the scenes for the past few months, and we can’t wait to start sharing them with you.

This fall, we’re introducing a fresh look for CH! We teamed up with @bozemanmediadesign to capture the journey, and we’re so excited for you to be part of it. 

Autumn has always been my favorite time to slow down, light the first fires of the season, and make space for cozy, quality moments. Here’s to embracing the change, creating memories, and making your spaces feel more like home. Cheers to the season ahead!