The Panache Life Blog
My Favorite Shelf Styling Decor
When we moved back to Illinois one of my primary concerns was to get my office up and running and construct a bookcase. I had bins and bins of books and decor ready to find their forever home.
Five Must Haves when Buying a Sofa (So you don’t regret it later)
You’re excited. You and your spouse are in agreement that its time for a living room refresh as well as a new more grown-up sofa. You start your search on-line. All the links say high quality. But what does that mean?
Conflict resolution
The top 5 Reasons I chose Hardwood Flooring
New Beginnings…
Color is Energy
Mr Man and I just returned from a trip to St Augustine, Florida, the oldest city in America. I thoroughly enjoyed taking pictures of the architecture around the most historical part of the city. One of the most interesting tours I went on was the first military hospital that was founded by the Spanish. Being a very devout Christian people their standard of cleanliness was before their time. Their survival rate was double what it was around the world. The pharmacist also grew many plants as medicine.
What does this have to do with color and design, Fran?
Joy
When you walk into a beautiful home design boutique what do you feel?
If you are like me you experience joy when experiencing the world around you. I recall years ago, entering thru the door of a local home decor retail shop I cried.
It was clean, organized, and filled with fine linens and furnishings. As I walked around
I’ve been reading the book, Joyful by Ingrid Fetell Lee. Upon reading the introduction, this book had me. The author, Ingrid, asks the question “How do tangible things create an intangible feeling of joy?”
2025 Color Trends: Classic hues for Elegant Interiors
As I’m getting back to real life, Pantone FINALLY revealed their color of the year earlier this morning. I watch and listen to experts in the design industry for the pulse regarding color. Pantone is the leading color influencer in fashion, marketing, and my favorite interior design. Why?
Peak behind the Curtain
Did you hear the news?
Benjamin Moore announced their color of the year for 2025! You definitely want to see this gorgeous color!
The Only White you Need
My walls in my new home are white, so I am inspired to talk about white paint. Lets get started!
Did you realize that white has an undertone? It can be difficult to determine with out asking deeper questions. And you know I’m all about the questions.
A Season of Change…
After a false start to spring in February here in the Northwest Suburbs, I think we have finally gotten here. The sun is shining today. Its energizing me today which is a great thing! I have big plans today.
The “No-Surprise” Initial Consultation
Step into Cathy’s world for a moment. Cathy and her husband are empty nesters now and ready to embrace their new life. She and her husband are wanting to renovate their home. Cathy is so excited for all the possibilities but at the same time is overwhelmed by all the possibilities. They decide together that the best plan of attack is to hire a designer to help with the decisions. They have never hired a designer before and wonder, “what can I expect?” Well guess what, that’ alright, I don’t like surprises either!
Six Must Haves before You Decorate!
As I sit here and reflect on the past year there have been so many things that have happened. The good, the bad and the ugly. And we have overcome the ugly and come out on the other side. I’m sure you can relate on some level. One reason, the primary reason is that I made a decision a few years back that I would choose to find something to be grateful for each day in many areas of my life. This I believe has had a profound change in me and those who I love. I will continue this.
Color of the Year 2024
I’m like a little kid at Christmas. I set my alarm on my calendar so I don’t miss the reveal of the Benjamin Moore Color of the Year.
How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets
When we purchased this house we knew it would be a big undertaking. This kitchen was sadly out dated and needed some love to bring it into the 21st century. I began to dream about what this refreshed kitchen could mean to a family. What improvements needed to happen, what to focus your eye on for the most success.
It’s getting Warmer…
Elevate your Home’sCurb Appeal
Captivating potential buyers with an elegant and inviting exterior sets the stage for a positive impression. Not only attract potential buyers but also create an ambiance that warmly welcomes them to envision their future in your elegant abode.
From Chaos to Panache
The Best Front Door Paint Colors
The Best front door paint colors can be found here!
Aromas that Attract Buyers
We all know that first impressions are often lasting impressions. When you drive up to a home that is for sale you first see the house and its condition its in, you get out of the car and you hear the sounds in the neighborhood, children laughing and playing, birds chirping. Upon entering your senses are flooded yet again and you take a deep breath from the excitement. What aromas do you smell? It can either repel you or have you drawn in more. How you prepare your home for selling can evoke those warm fuzzy memories that connect the buyer with your property.