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The 5 Elements of Our Signature Style

Ever wonder what makes the magic happen at Clouz Houz? Well, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing the secrets to our signature style. Over the years, our aesthetic has taken a few twists and turns, but these four factors are the ride-or-die essentials that consistently elevate and are prominent in our designs. So, grab a cup of your favorite coffee and join me as I explain the “why” behind our work!

Source: Clouz Houz

Aging Gracefully: Embracing Living Finishes in Design

Don’t be afraid to let your space age gracefully, just like a fine wine. We’re head over heels for unlacquered brass, and copper or bronze. They’re our go-to materials for that perfect patina that only gets better with time. 

Sure, you can clean them up and restore them to their original glory, but we’re all about letting them do their thing. It gives your accents a sort of vibe that is just irreplicable. Embrace the beauty of life’s imperfections and let them shine in their own way!

Source: Amber Interiors

From door hardware to lighting fixtures, and even those little accents in décor, living finishes are the unsung heroes that bring a layered look and undeniable charm to our projects. So, next time you’re eyeing that gleaming brass faucet or considering cabinet hardware, don’t shy away – let it age like a pro! It can become your own signature look.

 

Playful Harmony: Unleashing the Art of Pattern Play

In our playbook, more is definitely more! I’ve never been one to turn away from mixing patterns. In fact, I believe a room truly comes to life with at least two different patterns on textiles like pillows or furniture. But why stop there? Make a bold statement with vintage rugs, or infuse patterns into larger furniture items. It’s the secret to injecting loads of personality into our spaces. 

Source: Clouz Houz

While solids and neutrals have their time and place, patterns with a signature pop of color are our absolute favorites. Lately, I’m swooning over florals – they’re like a breath of fresh air for any room … literally! 

Source: Unkown

Curious about my current favorites? Check out my roundup at the very end!

 

Embrace Nature Through Natural Materials

I’m a firm believer in the power of materials straight from Mother Nature herself: think natural stone, real wood, and the cozy charm of wool carpet. These aren’t just design choices; they really set a space apart in terms of quality and feel. 

Source: Clouz Houz

Sure, natural stone might etch over time. But let me tell you, the look and quality of real marble, quartzite, and granite are unmatched for that luxe and layered vibe. Sorry, man-made materials – you’ve got some tough competition. 

Source: Clouz Houz

I get it — low-maintenance materials have their appeal. But, if you’re open to the beauty of natural materials, I’ll shout it from the rooftops – real and natural materials are the MVPs! 

 

Blending Traditional Charm with Modern Edge

It’s all about that eclectic edge: a room with soul is born when you throw tradition and contemporary into the design blender. Picture a vintage piece stealing the show in a sea of sleek and modern elements. There’s a lot of beauty in the unexpected mix that just warms my design-loving heart. 

Source: Clouz Houz

Take a dining space, for instance – pairing an old table with contemporary dining chairs adds a layer of intrigue that a matchy-matchy set can’t quite achieve. It’s the collision of eras that makes the space not just interesting, but downright charming. 

Source: Lauren Liess

And, let’s talk textiles! Who says a current contemporary chair can’t cozy up with a vintage-inspired floral pattern? It’s the eclectic twist that turns a simple piece into a conversation starter. 

 

Textural Elegance

Texture is the true element that transforms any space from flat to fab! In my opinion, rattan, textured finishes on furniture, and the warm embrace of mohair mixed with linen are game-changers. It’s all about that sweet sweet dance of materials – think rattan or wicker cozying up with marble for that perfect blend of textures. 

Source: Clouz Houz

Why stick to just one texture when you can create a harmonious blend of different feels? Mix materials with varying textures, and voilà – true bliss! It’s that layering effect that adds depth and richness, making your space feel special and sensational. 

Source: Clouz Houz

Clouz Houz tip: All linen or all velvet? It can feel blah sometimes. But blend them together, and it will truly elevate your whole space and take it to the next level. 

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In the world of design, it’s not just about trends; it’s about understanding what a room desires to be and embracing its purpose. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Each space is tells a unique story that mirrors our clients’ dreams and the narrative of their home.

Our Signature Style

As we spill the secrets behind our signature style, we invite you to take a closer glimpse into the heart behind our work.

These elements aren’t just design principles for us; they’re the core values that guide our projects, infusing each space with soul and character.

Curious to see more of this in action? Check out the handpicked items below that speak to each element. For a more immersive experience, follow along on our Instagram and Pinterest

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I’ve been getting a lot of questions about how I run my business… so whether you are a prospective client or a new designer here’s something I wanted to share…
After 15+ years, I can tell you this: running a design studio is about so much more than creating something beautiful.
Most days, it feels like 80% of my job is understanding people—how they live, what they need, what matters to them and only 20% is the actual design. And honestly, that might surprise you.
A lot of how I operate comes from my early career as an Executive Assistant at Nike, where I learned the value of being organized, anticipate needs, and keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes. That foundation shapes everything we do.
Because in the end, it’s not just about pretty homes… it’s about creating spaces that truly support the people living in them. And the process in getting there can completely change the entire experience. 
So if you are questioning if you have what it takes to do this, or maybe you are considering working with us- know this: if you think designers are just “creatives” you are wrong- it’s also all the unsexy stuff - the process in which we create a beautiful space.
If you want your home to feel more custom, look up.
One pet peeve is when electricians “swiss cheese” your ceiling with a bunch of recessed can lights. By strategically placing them you can get a beautiful and seamless look. Standard recessed lights have a visible trim that creates a subtle shadow line on the ceiling.
These 3” mud-in recessed lights are installed and finished directly into the drywall, so there’s no trim, no harsh edge, no visual interruption. Seamless.
A subtle ceiling detail I have never done before but I’m soooo glad we did!
It’s quieter. Cleaner. More intentional.
Save this and bring it up early in your planning phase. This is a detail WORTH considering! Also, If you want the exact lights we used comment ‘ME’ and we will DM you the link.
Hear me out on something...I want to break down the WHY behind this service.
Over the years, we’ve had so many people reach out who don’t necessarily need full-service design... but they know they still want expert guidance before making big decisions in their home.
Maybe you’re working with a contractor and need help choosing finishes.
Maybe you’re stuck on a layout.
Maybe you just want to make sure the pieces you’re investing in will actually work together.
That’s exactly why I created Designer for a Day. It gives you 6 hours with our team, split into two 3-hour sessions so you have time to sit with decisions, talk with your contractor, and come back with questions or revisions.
During our time together, we tackle whatever is holding you back so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. Everything happens live in the session, which means we can talk through ideas, problem-solve, and make decisions together in real time.
And the best part? It works beautifully virtually.
For example: I’m in Tennessee, our junior designer Kaylei is in Oregon, and our clients can be anywhere.
I truly believe good design shouldn’t be reserved for only the biggest projects. Sometimes all you need is the right guidance at the right moment.
If you’re navigating a remodel, renovation, or design challenge and feeling a little stuck, this service was created with you in mind. Link in bio (or head to our website) to inquire!