Hello, hello! it's me again. I'm so excited to share with you some of my favorite tips for designing the perfect entryway. Whether you have a lot of space or just a little, certain must-haves can make your entryway shine. Let's dive in, shall we? First things first, you need an anchor element. This is a statement piece that really sets the tone for your entryway. Depending on your style, it could be a big piece of art or a mirror that catches the eye and creates a focal point. Next up is the landing piece. This is where you can drop your keys, shoes, purse, and anything else you're carrying. If you have the space, a console table is a great option. But even if you don't, you can always add a floating shelf or some hooks to create a functional landing area. Trust me, your guests will appreciate having a designated space to put their stuff. Lighting is an optional but oh-so-important element. If you have a console table, a table lamp can create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. And in the evening, a dimmed light can make all the difference. Adding some greenery is another must-have for me. Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can always opt for some faux greenery to add a touch of freshness to your space. When it comes to decor, it's all about balance. Don't feel like you have to match everything perfectly on both sides of the entryway. Instead, focus on creating a cohesive look by using the rule of 3's. And don't forget to add something unique, like a trinket jar or a special heirloom, to give your entryway a personal touch. To sum it up, designing an entryway is all about creating a functional and inviting space that sets the tone for your home. Be sure to include tall elements, greenery, a landing object, a candle (because who doesn't love candles?), books, and a runner rug or rug to tie everything together. I hope these tips were helpful for you. If you have any questions or thoughts, please don't hesitate to share them with me. I love hearing from you! Shop my entryway favorite picks: Don't forget to share your thoughts with me! I always try to answer all the e-mails you guys send my way :). Thank you for reading!! write you soon, GET IN TOUCH | WORK WITH US Alkemi Interior Design Studio offers the most advanced design solutions, CAD drawings, technical specifications, and 3-D reality-depicted design renderings to bring your vision to life while providing a thorough plan of execution for all parties involved.

Hello Fellow designers! I've been thinking about starting this blog where I can share a bit more of my experience of running my interior design biz, and if you are trying to grow yours, be a resource that will help you thrive. I'd love to know what topics would it be something you are interested in learning more about so I can create the entries accordingly! So leave a comment, send me an e-mail, or a DM however you prefer, I'd love to know. As for this one, I thought of sharing my favorite 3 interior design tools that I use every day to run my business. I've been on my own for more than 2 years, and it's been a trial and error for a long time sometimes still I decide a tool is not for me; So I do suggest trying and finding out what works better for your Interior design business and workflows. I will start with a general look at my workflow and the tools I use for every step of my design onboarding process. 1-Onboarding a new client Tool: Honeybook. I use Honeybook for a lot of things in my business. Most importantly, Improved my Workflow 100%. My lead form is through them...so on my website, I have this contact form that automatically connects with my Honeybook portal and creates a new lead. My Customized lead form includes specific questions that help me understand the needs of my future client and the best scope that fits their project- with this said, I contact them with the information I received, already with a plan of action on how to get their project started. A smooth start for them and easy for me. Other than that, I do have my contracts there, I invoice, and I have automation through this platform. I've been with them since I started my business and although it is an investment, I've found it SO WORTH IT. Plus, with their new smart files, I'm now able to ask for immediate feedback on my client's projects. If you want to know more about how I use Honeybook, let me know and I can create a specific blog entry on how I use it and better practices to improve your workflow. Recap: Honeybook is for you if... 1- You need to optimize your workflow and enjoy more the design process. 2- You need a platform to invoice, schedule, and sign contracts. 3- You want a responsive space where your client can find all the e-mails and files in the same spot. If you want to give it a try, Get 50% Off your first year with my referral code by clicking the button below. You also have a 7-day trial to see if it is the right fit for you. 2- Start of the Creative Process. Tool: Milanote Once I signed a client, and gathered the information I needed, My creative process starts. This means, mood boards, brainstorming, context research and I start gathering together all the visual elements that I need to start creating mood boards or style boards. This website app has helped me to have all the links of products, pins, etc. in the same spot with client boards. You can add color schemes, and notes and even draw in it. My favorite feature is that I can create boards inside boards allowing me to have a client brief, mood board, to-do lists, and schedules and never miss a due date. Recap: Milanote is for you if... 1- You need a place to organize pictures, inspiration pins, and brainstorming. 2- You struggle with to-do's and due dates. 3- You want to share ideas with your clients through a website. I do not have a promo code for you with Milanote, but they have a free plan for you to try it out! website: Let me know your thoughts! 3- Material Board Tool: Mattoboard The Most Innovative app I've been using EVERY DAY. The fact you can create realistic material boards for your clients and the fact it's completely FREE and you can download your boards with good quality, is just pure gold. I used to do material boards in Photoshop emulating shadows, materiality, etc. But this app is a game changer. My process is way faster and the options you can create are endless. I'm not sure if they will develop a subscription or if they will keep it as a free resource, but definitely something you should be taking advantage of to elevate your deliverables. Hope this is helpful for you, I'm getting ready to share more details about running an Interior design business and hopefully in the future create a community where we all can help each other! :) Leave a comment below with what would you like to learn more about and I'll get on it! Write to you soon, creative.

This guide's perfect for your friend who loves to go camping or for the soul who loves to get on a plane and get lost. No matter if is around the corner or the Country, these picks will put a smile on your friend/lover's face ;)- Let me know your thoughts! #giftguide #travellovergiftguide #giftguidefortravelers #alkemiinteriors 01- Adventure Flask // 02- Passport holder with blocker // 03- Air Fly Pro, Bluetooth wireless transmitter // 04- Travel watercolor paint kit // 05- Everyday Belt Bag // 06- Lugagge scale // 07- Bamboo Sleep Mask // 08- Deluxe Travel packing Set // 09- The Camper Gifts Set Don't forget to take a look at our other gift guides! Gift Guide for the Chef. Gift Guide for the Tech Savvy. Gift Guide for the Book Worm. Gift Guide for the Coffee Lover. Gift Guide for the Traveler. Stocking Stuffers Enjoy these holidays with your loved ones... Make sure to give company, love, empathy, and honesty. I wish you the best! Write to you soon, Astrid.

If you're on the hunt for the perfect present for the Tech savvy soul in your life (or maybe that's you!), look no further. I got expert help for this one ( Cache a.k.a the Hubs) to pick a few items that would make a great addition to your techy person. Take a look and let me know your thoughts! #giftguide #techsavvygiftguide #alkemiinteriors #techloversgiftguide 01-Dual-Device Charging Stand // 02- Hand massager with compression and heat // 03- Runaway alarm clock // 04- Floating Moon Desk Lamp // 05- Bluetooth bone conductor headset // 06- Amazon Kindle Scribe // 07- Razer streaming cam // 08- Darth Vader controller holder // 09- Travel cable organizer Don't forget to take a look at our other gift guides! Gift Guide for the Chef. Gift Guide for the Tech Savvy. Gift Guide for the Book Worm. Gift Guide for the Coffee Lover. Gift Guide for the Traveler. Stocking Stuffers Enjoy these holidays with your loved ones... Make sure to give company, love, empathy, and honesty. I wish you the best! Write to you soon, Astrid.

If you are looking for a gift for the coffee connoisseur, I'll give you some quick ideas below. I'm no expert but I do enjoy a good cup of coffee. I did some research and here's my best shot at recommending you a nice gift. Take a look at this Gift Guide for Coffee lovers and Let me know your thoughts! #giftguide #coffeelover #coffeelovergift #giftforcoffeelover #alkemiinteriors 01- Barista cup with instructions // 02- Vacuum canister for coffee // 03- Pump espresso maker individual // 04- White coffee grinder // 05- Glass stackable canister // 06- Breville Milk frother // 07- Ceramic espresso cup // 08- Coffee Advent calendar // 09- Temperature control smart cup Don't forget to take a look at our other gift guides! Gift Guide for the Chef. Gift Guide for the Tech Savvy. Gift Guide for the Book Worm. Gift Guide for the Coffee Lover. Gift Guide for the Traveler. Stocking Stuffers Enjoy these holidays with your loved ones... Make sure to give company, love, empathy, and honesty. I wish you the best! Write to you soon, Astrid.

KK. This is my specialty * I think *. Here are the best little gifts that a book lover would appreciate. Thank me later ;) Also a gift card for Barnes and Noble, amazon, kindle, etc it's a good way to show some love. I personally don't recommend buying books since it's a bit personal and you never know what mood your favorite person is in! Take a look at the bookworm gift guide and let me know your thoughts♥ #giftguide #booklover #booklovergifguide #alkemiinteriors 01- Personalized Candle // 02- Library card tote bag // 03- Pride and Prejudice purse // 04- Original personal library kit // 05- Bookworm sweatshirt // 06- 100 book bucket list //07- Retro Keyboard wireless typewriter // 08- Acrylic book vase // 09- Leather bookmark Don't forget to take a look at our other gift guides! Gift Guide for the Chef. Gift Guide for the Tech Savvy. Gift Guide for the Book Worm. Gift Guide for the Coffee Lover. Gift Guide for the Traveler. Stocking Stuffers Enjoy these holidays with your loved ones... Make sure to give company, love, empathy, and honesty. I wish you the best! Write to you soon, Astrid.

This was my favorite gift guide by far! Let me tell ya... I am one of those people who likes small details that mean a lot- and I'm sure you can find something that will mean a lot to the other person. I found a Tamagotchi...YES, a Tamagotchi... remember? no? Am I that old? FINE. Trust me, sometimes something small means more than a big gift. Let me know your thoughts! #giftguide #stockingstuffers #holidaygiftguide #giftsunder50 #giftsunder20 #alkemiinteriors 01- Tamagotchi // 02- Actually Curious card game // 03- The Five Minute Journal // 04- AirTag // 05- Crystal Starter Kit // 06- Foodie Dice // 07- Personalized Embroidered Corner bookmark // 08- Hidden Pocket Scrunchie Set // 09- Custom Golf Ball stamp Don't forget to take a look at our other gift guides! Gift Guide for the Chef. Gift Guide for the Tech Savvy. Gift Guide for the Book Worm. Gift Guide for the Coffee Lover. Gift Guide for the Traveler. Stocking Stuffers Enjoy these holidays with your loved ones... Make sure to give company, love, empathy, and honesty. I wish you the best! Write to you soon, Astrid.

We all know that person who loves to cook! and we love it even *more*. Being a "wannabe chef" myself, this gift guide might be a little wishlist lol. I do own the instant pot in here, and *not sponsored* I LOVE IT. OMG. I couldn't recommend it enough. Life-changer. Also, I'm including cute accessories and nostalgic elements like the customized recipe book... I mean!! the perfect gift. Take a look and let me know your thoughts! #cheffavorites #giftguide #giftguideforthechef #entretainergiftguide #alkemiinteriors 01 - Silicone Utensil set // 02 -Ultimate Garlic grinder // 03- Everyday Cookbook // 04- Multo by CookingPal, Multi-Functional Stainless Steel Food Processor // 05- Acacia Pasta drying rack // 06- Blue Carbon Steel Wok // 07- Instant pot stainless steel (cuz health comes first) // 08- Truff | Truffle lovers pack // 09- Personalized recipe book Don't forget to take a look at our other gift guides! Gift Guide for the Chef. Gift Guide for the Tech Savvy. Gift Guide for the Book Worm. Gift Guide for the Coffee Lover. Gift Guide for the Traveler. Stocking Stuffers Enjoy these holidays with your loved ones... Make sure to give company, love, empathy, and honesty. I wish you the best! Write to you soon, Astrid.

Hello, hello! it's me again. Let's talk about a design element that often gets overlooked but is absolutely vital in the world of restaurants. I'm starting this blog after going to the bathroom (Yes) sorry for being so explicit. But hear me out. WHAT a terrible experience I just had in a HIGH-END restaurant. Geez. I promise I try not to be that designer who judges or complains instead of appreciating the surroundings but GUYS- this place made it so hard. I'm not here to complain about it, but I'm for sure sharing WHY Interior design in public restrooms is SO important. From this blog more specifically talkin' on a restaurant. If you didn't know this, I have a Master's degree in interior design for hotels, bars, and restaurants (GET OVER IT, GIRL)...Before you think I'm over my head, I'm just saying this to let you know that I do have a bit more information about the subject and that's why I felt confident enough to write this, and not just to say like "the wallpaper was terrible". So let's get started, friends! Now, you might be thinking, "Why are we talking about bathrooms when we could be discussing mouthwatering dishes and stylish dining areas?" Well, hold on to your napkins, because restaurant bathrooms have a lot more to offer than you might imagine! 🍽️ As an interior designer with a flair for commercial restaurant spaces, I'm here to spill the beans on why restaurant bathrooms are more than just a place to wash your hands. They're a canvas where design meets functionality, and here's why they're so darn important. Picture this: You've just enjoyed a delicious meal, and now it's time to freshen up. You step into a bathroom that's more like a work of art than a washroom. The stylish fixtures, captivating colors, and unique design elements instantly elevate your experience. That "wow" moment in the restroom can leave a lasting impression and make your dining experience unforgettable. Restaurant bathrooms are an extension of the restaurant's brand and theme. Whether it's a cozy bistro, a hip café, or an upscale fine dining establishment, the bathroom should seamlessly fit into the restaurant's overall aesthetic. When the design flows from the dining area into the restroom, it creates a harmonious experience for the guests, reinforcing the restaurant's identity. Have you ever been in a beautifully designed restaurant only to be disappointed by a neglected bathroom? This is what happened to me Today. Attention to detail is key in interior design, and restaurant bathrooms are no exception. From the choice of tiles to the lighting fixtures and even the hand dryers, every detail should be carefully curated to enhance the overall atmosphere. Ultimately, the goal of any restaurant is to provide a memorable experience for its guests. And guess what? The bathroom is an integral part of that experience. A beautifully designed restroom can leave a lasting impression, and it's a topic of conversation long after the meal is over. 🗣️ So, if you're a restaurant owner or manager reading this, take a moment to appreciate the potential of your restroom space. And if you're looking to revamp your restaurant or create a new one, don't underestimate the power of a professional interior designer who specializes in commercial restaurant spaces (hint: like me!😏). We're here to turn your restaurant's restroom into a masterpiece that complements your brand, creates a buzz, and keeps guests coming back for more. To wrap this up, this is what we look for when designing a commercial restroom: 1- Wow factor 2- Reflecting the brand 3- Attention to detail 4- Hygiene and comfort 5- A memorial experience. Don't forget to share your thoughts with me! I always try to answer all the e-mails you guys send my way :). Thank you for reading!! write you soon, GET IN TOUCH | WORK WITH US Alkemi Interior Design Studio offers the most advanced design solutions, CAD drawings, technical specifications, and 3-D reality-depicted design renderings to bring your vision to life while providing a thorough plan of execution for all parties involved.

Hi Friends! Astrid here, writing you again excited to share some rug tips with you all! In today's post, we will talk about my usual rules for placing rugs inside the bedroom with Queen and King beds. I'm planning on making a rug-size guide for the living room, dining room, etc. Soon! so stay tuned. For now, enjoy these tips and visual guide for you to always pick the right size of rug for your bedroom. And, without further ado, let's go! When choosing a rug for a bedroom, it's important to consider the size of the bed and the layout of the room. The right rug can tie the room together and create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Here's how to select the right rug size for different scenarios: 1. Standard Bedroom Layout: Queen Bed: For a standard bedroom with a Queen-sized bed, a 5'x8' or 6'x9' rug is usually a good choice. Place the rug horizontally under the lower two-thirds of the bed, leaving the top third of the bed and nightstands off the rug. King Bed: With a King-sized bed, opt for a larger rug, ideally an 8'x10' or 9'x12'. Place the rug under the bed so that it extends beyond the sides and foot of the bed, providing a soft landing for your feet when you get out of bed. 2. Tight Space: Queen Bed: In a small bedroom with a Queen bed, consider a 4'x6' or 5'x7' rug. Place it vertically under the bed, leaving a few inches of rug visible on either side. This creates the illusion of a larger space. King Bed: For a small bedroom with a King bed, a 6'x9' rug can work. Center the rug under the bed, ensuring it extends just beyond the sides of the bed. 3. Large Room: Queen Bed: In a spacious bedroom with a Queen bed, go for a larger rug, such as a 7'x10' or 8'x11'. Position it horizontally under the bed with enough space to accommodate the nightstands as well. This anchors the bed in the room. King Bed: In a generous-sized room with a King bed, choose an oversized rug, like a 9'x12' or larger. Place it under the bed, extending well beyond the sides and foot of the bed. This creates a luxurious and balanced look in the room. 4. On a Budget: Queen Bed: If you're on a budget, a 4'x6' or 5'x7' rug can work for a Queen bed. Place it vertically under the lower two-thirds of the bed, as mentioned earlier. King Bed: For a budget-friendly option with a King bed, consider a 6'x9' rug. Position it under the bed, extending slightly beyond the sides of the bed. Remember that these are general guidelines, and you should also consider the overall room layout, the placement of furniture, and your personal style preferences. Additionally, the rug's material and texture can influence the overall look and feel of the room, so choose one that complements your decor. Rugs we love: Write to you soon, BOOK YOUR FREE DESIGN DISCOVERY CALL:

Rome, oh Rome, the city that keeps calling me back like a siren's song. I've ventured into its cobblestone alleys and bustling piazzas three times now, and each time feels like the first – a fresh discovery waiting to unfold. These photos, relics from pre-Covid times, capture moments from my three sojourns in the eternal city, each a chapter of its own. Come with me and join me in this designer in Rome story. I'll admit, I'm no Hemingway, but as the years blur memories, there's something comforting about pouring thoughts onto paper. My Roman escapades, you see, were a tad too "eat, pray, love" with a heavy emphasis on the "eat" part – because let's face it, food in Rome is a celestial experience. The water tastes crisper, the wine – oh, the wine – and pasta becomes a sonnet of flavors. Now, before you start imagining me reciting historical facts at ancient ruins, let me tell you: my most profound Roman moments involved unexpected hilarity. Oh, the stories I could tell you! Though some are a bit too cringe-worthy – even as I recount them now – they had me cackling on my couch for weeks on end. And yes, a select few dear friends got a kick out of my misadventures too. Twice, the skies above me opened up as if to shower me with a dose of reality – a reality that left me both drenched and entertained - I understood I needed a tourist poncho and an umbrella-. Once, I found myself unceremoniously evicted from a high-fashion shopping center (Oh, the cringe-worthy saga! It's a tale locked in the vault, and no, I won't break it open here. But trust me, it's a plot twist you won't see coming!) And if that weren't enough, fate decided I should also moonlight as the impromptu consoler for a girl on the street, caught in the midst of a romantic wreckage – the kind that usually belongs in movies; and I ended up in her apartment sharing a table of cheese with her friends. I didn't understand a word of the whole evening lol. But... Ever get that sensation of being the protagonist in your own movie, with the world as your stage? Rome had me feeling like a modern-day Audrey Hepburn, striding through her Roman Holiday. Each step was a performance, every meal a delectable scene, and the Colosseum itself a dramatic backdrop. During two of my stays, I settled into charming Airbnb abodes. The first time, I found myself in a mildly eerie situation – the hosts insisted on serving breakfast in bed. Now, don't get me wrong, I love breakfast as much as the next person, but sharing that intimate moment with strangers was a bit too Hitchcock for my taste. Besides, my idea of breakfast was a coffee and maybe a toast back then. I've since expanded my breakfast horizons, rest assured. And here I am, starting this journal, my own patchwork of memories and experiences that shaped who I am today. Tragedy struck last year when I lost a trove of cherished photos and videos – a digital graveyard. It was a brutal lesson in letting go, but it ignited a spark to encapsulate my adventures here. No, you won't find me recommending bed linens or wall art, but you will find me baring a slice of my soul, sharing the whispers of who I am. After all, knowing where we've been can offer insights into where we're headed, if you're inclined to dig into that treasure trove. But let's not overlook the simple joys – like sipping wine under the night sky, awaiting a steaming plate of pasta. Ah, Cacio e Pepe, my heart's true desire. The finest pasta symphony I've ever tasted, not in a five-star Michelin haunt, but in a local gem hidden down a rain-soaked alley. I can't recall why I chose that alley or what guided me there, but isn't that the essence of Rome? Unplanned serendipity. It feels a bit surreal, me jotting down these fragments of my Roman tale. But indulge me, won't you? If your feet ever tread the stones in front of the "Piazza di Spagna," remember this: remember to look up. There's magic in the details, and Rome, with all its grandeur, thrives in those stolen glances heavenward. Oh, and of course, you need to make a wish in the famous Fontana di trevi. Which I'm sure Lizzie Mcguire taught you that dreams come true. If you don't know this reference please leave and come back whenever you know what I'm talking about. Let me know what you think of this new journal section. Write to you soon, Astrid Now, a photo dump.

These leafy companions will not only beautify your space but also bring a touch of nature indoors. So, let's dive in and discover how to keep these plants thriving! Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is general in nature. It's always a good idea to research specific care instructions for each plant and consider the individual conditions of your home environment. Spider Plant: Spider Plants are fantastic for beginners. Their arching leaves and delicate white flowers add an elegant touch to any room. Place them in bright, indirect light and water them when the top inch of soil feels dry. Spider Plants are forgiving, so even if you occasionally forget to water, they'll bounce back with their resilience. Rubber Plant: The Rubber Plant is a sturdy and low-maintenance friend. With its glossy, deep green leaves, it brings a touch of sophistication to your space. Place it in bright, indirect light and water when the top inch of soil is dry. Remember, they're not fans of soggy roots, so let the soil dry out between waterings. Your Rubber Plant will reward you with its stunning foliage! Monstera: Ah, the Monstera, a true showstopper! Its iconic, fenestrated leaves make it an Instagram favorite. Provide your Monstera with bright, indirect light, and water it when the top inch of soil is dry. These beauties appreciate a touch of humidity, so mist their leaves occasionally or place a humidifier nearby. Get ready to witness your Monstera's leaves unfurl and grow before your eyes! Pothos: Pothos, with its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, is a perfect addition to any hanging planter or shelf. It's incredibly adaptable and forgiving. Place it in bright, indirect light or even low-light conditions, and water it when the top inch of soil feels dry. Pothos is known to purify the air and bring a breath of fresh air into your home. Fiddle Leaf Fig: The Fiddle Leaf Fig is an eye-catching plant with its large, violin-shaped leaves. It thrives in bright, indirect light near a window. Water it when the top inch of soil is dry, and be mindful not to overwater, as they prefer slightly drier conditions. Give your Fiddle Leaf Fig some extra love by wiping its leaves gently to keep them dust-free and shiny! Snake Plant: Snake Plants are true survivors, making them perfect for busy plant parents. With their tall, upright leaves and striking patterns, they add a touch of modern elegance to any space. They can tolerate a range of lighting conditions, from bright to low light, and prefer to dry out between waterings. A word of caution: don't overwater them, as they prefer to stay on the drier side. Congratulations on becoming acquainted with these fabulous indoor plants! Remember, each plant has its own unique care requirements, so observe and adjust accordingly. With a little love, attention, and occasional conversations with your green friends, you'll enjoy their beauty and reap the rewards of a greener and more vibrant home. Happy plant parenting! Write to you soon, GET IN TOUCH | WORK WITH US alkemi interior design studio offers the most advanced design solutions, CAD drawings, technical specifications, and 3-D reality-depicted design renderings to bring your vision to life while providing a thorough plan of execution for all parties involved.