Point Me in the Right Style Direction, Please.

The very first thing I like to nail down at the start of every project is its style direction.  Taking cues from the era of the home, the existing architecture, and even existing décor, I “label” my style direction.  Names like “boho-retro” and “classic-glam” and “moody-eclectic.”   You may be wondering why it’s necessary to start with this.  Here’s why:  with the gazillion design choices out there I need a way to focus.  When I’m choosing a chandelier, for example, the ones I focus on are very different if I’m designing a “boho-retro” space versus a “classic-glam” space.  In a sea of chandelier options, if I know which style I’m going for I can zoom in and narrow down my options.  Needless to say, I need a style direction for the Eastlake Reno.  The Eastlake Reno is my first attempt at flipping a home and I’m letting you, the reader, help me make every decision I’m mulling over during this flip.  I need to know what appeals to the masses, so I am asking the masses (aka you) via Instagram polls.

This is the Eastlake Reno:

My very first poll had my viewers choose between two style directions: charming farmhouse and modern cottage.  I narrowed it down to these two styles because this house is small with simple lines, both elements seen in cottages and farmhouses.

In my opinion, these are the elements of a charming farmhouse:  shiplap (definitely), creamy neutrals, relaxed furniture, white-on-white kitchen, and weathered wood.   Here is an example:

Modern cottage, on the other hand, has clean lines, modern hardware, in-the-moment yet neutral color and a little shine.  It still has some elements that make it “cottage-y”, like aged wood flooring and florals.  Here is an example of one:

Both styles would suit this house, I think.  If I had to guess, I would say charming farmhouse would win because isn’t shiplap and all white the craze?  Apparently not.  Here are the results:

What a pleasant surprise!  It was fun watching the votes come in, not to mention super-helpful.  I can’t wait to have all of you weigh in on my next poll:  the bathroom tile design!  Follow me on Instagram @urbanhausdesigns if you’d like to play along!

‘Til next time,

Orooj