Today we're diving into the exciting world of multi-functional spaces! The days of single-purpose rooms are difficult when space is an issue. Today's interior design trends embrace versatility, creativity, and, of course, fun! Join us as we explore the endless possibilities of designing spaces that effortlessly adapt to our ever-changing needs.

1. The Living Room Retreat: Imagine a space that seamlessly transforms from a cozy family gathering spot to a home theater or even a yoga studio. With clever design elements like modular furniture, hidden storage solutions, and a retractable screen, your living room can be an entertainment hub one moment and a zen oasis the next. Movie nights, yoga sessions, and family game tournaments—this multi-functional space has it all!
2. The Office Nook: Working from home has become the new normal, and having a dedicated workspace is essential. But who says your office nook has to be boring? Let's inject some fun into your work routine! Incorporate vibrant colors, inspiring artwork, and adjustable furniture that can double as a standing desk or a comfortable reading corner. It's the perfect space for productivity and creative brainstorming sessions.
3. The Guest Haven: Transform your spare bedroom into a multi-functional haven that accommodates both guests and personal needs. A Murphy bed or a stylish daybed can provide a cozy place for visitors, while the rest of the time, the room can serve as a hobby studio, a home gym, or a peaceful reading retreat. Customize the space with versatile storage solutions to keep your hobbies organized and out of sight when guests arrive.
4. The Kitchen Social Hub: Kitchens have always been a gathering spot, but now they're taking on even more roles. Design your kitchen to be the heart of the home—a place for cooking, dining, working, and socializing. Incorporate a spacious island with built-in seating, creating a casual dining area, a homework station, or a comfortable workspace for recipe experimentation. The kitchen becomes a multifunctional hub where friends and family can gather, connect, and create memories.
5. The Outdoor Oasis: Who said multi-functional spaces are limited to the indoors? Take advantage of your outdoor area by creating an oasis that caters to different activities. From a dining area for al fresco meals to a lounge zone for relaxation and a fire pit for cozy gatherings, your backyard can be a versatile haven for entertaining, unwinding, and embracing nature.

Conclusion: Embrace the versatility and fun of multi-functional spaces in your home. By combining thoughtful design, adaptable furniture, and a touch of creativity, you can create spaces that effortlessly cater to your ever-changing needs and add an element of excitement to your daily routines. So, let your imagination run wild and design a space that truly reflects your dynamic lifestyle!
Remember, the key is to prioritize functionality, flexibility, and personalization while infusing your unique style into each corner. Get ready to enjoy a home that adapts to your needs and inspires joy at every turn!



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XoXo,
Erica McMillon
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Hello Friends,
Happy New Year! It has definitely been a while since my last post. Today's post will be about the 7 elements of Interior Design. Those 7 elements are color, texture, patterns, space, forms, light and line. All 7 of these elements are super important to keep a balanced design that are pleasing to the eye. If one of these elements are off by being too overpowering or under-whelming it can be vital to your space's aesthetics and throw your whole design off. 

Let's talk about color first. Colors are mastered by interior designers to create an ambiance that their clients are looking to achieve. It can allow for spaces to appear larger or smaller than they actually are. Colors can define spaces and depending on what room you are designing you can either create something powerful with dramatic and deeper tones or something calming, light and airy with more natural tones. When designing on a tighter budget I always say that paint can go a long way.

Next element is texture. Texture is a fun way to add dimension to spaces. You can add textures in furniture pieces, fabrics, drapery, accent rugs, throw pillows, wall paper, and/or throw blankets. When interior designers want to add texture to a space they usually mix several fabrics and materials that are well balanced and work well together. I typically use textures for my client couples who usually have two completely different styles and find ways to marry both styles so that it works for the space but that they are also both happy with. Texture is a good way to add feeling to your spaces, reflect your personality into it.  After all, I believe a design should always tell a story of who you are and what you love. 

The following element is patterns. Patterns are very similar to texture, it also adds visual appeal to your space. In the use of patterns you can carry themes throughout your entire home if that is what you prefer or you can define one space on its own. There are several patterns available such as geometric, abstract, horizontal, vertical, stripes, prints, etc. selecting patterns can come easily for some but, not for everyone. If you find yourself needing a pattern but unsure how to select, it will depend on the style you are going to use for your design and then you can look for patterns in that category. For instance, I typically use geometric and abstract patterns in my more modern and contemporary designs. My go to patterns for a traditional style is more of the organic and floral patterns. 

The next element is space. Space is often the foundation on an interior design. It is what we have available to work with unless you have an option and luxury to change the footprint. Often the questions are what is the space currently, what do you want the space to become, what will it's functionality be, and how can we utilize what we have in the best way possible. One way to give the illusion of a space to appear taller in height is by adding objects from floor to ceiling that will capture the eye. I often use floor to ceiling drapes in spaces for my clients who have shorter ceiling heights and it makes a world of difference.

The following element is forms. Forms are the shapes of a space and the dimensions you have available to work within. While it is easier to work  with square, rectangular, and circular dimensions there will be times where a room can have an odd shape such as geometric. A good designer will be able to create something even with the oddest shaped rooms. 

The next element is light. Light is a super vital element to any space. It is the aspect that can either make or break a space's design. If not properly balanced the rest of your room's design will not radiate to its full potential. Depending on the space and its usage, lighting can and will make all the difference. Lighting sets moods, defines areas, furniture, art  pieces and it helps all other aspects of your design shine. It is one of my personal favorite elements and if left up to me I would install a chandelier even in your laundry room LOL. 

Last but, not least the final element is line. Lines are important when guiding the eye when entering a space. It can be vertical or horizontal lines that would either make the space feel longer or taller. It will depend on how you prefer your space to feel. Often designers use lines in their spaces to convey movement. Lines will not just be walls in a space, but also in furniture pieces such as tables, sofas, accent rugs, etc. I often use lines in my more rustic designs creating illusions of either a wider room or a taller ceiling.

Now that you have a bit of understanding of the 7 important elements of interior design and their usage I hope this helps you when creating your spaces. Again, these elements are all critical when designing and when used within balance can create moods, ambiance, and functionality. When used off balance can either make or break your space's design. Have fun when designing your areas!

Tip of the Month:
For my DIYers, if you have furniture pieces that you are bored with but prefer not to break the bank on another piece, simply re-paint your piece and change out the hardware. It is cost effective and can totally change your piece into something you now love.

XoXo,
Erica McMillon

With the holidays right around the corner, the best way to start your season's decor is by creating a wonderful, and inviting table scape. Although you may not be entertaining a large group of guests this year, you can still transform your space into something magical. I am sure your immediate family will definitely appreciate it. 

While creating a table scape you can use something super extravagant or you can use something neutral. It is your personal preference, there is no wrong way to do it. If you decide to go extravagant, you can use your centerpieces and dinnerware as your statement pieces and then decorate your other spaces to play off of your table. If you decide to go with a neutral palette, you can have your other spaces become your statement. With a neutral table scape, you can use dinnerware with subtle patterns or even just plain white, use a charger plate with a solid color perhaps a color you plan on using throughout your home for the season. You can also add subtle florals, such as eucalyptus or white hydrangeas for your centerpieces and possibly some white or silver candles. 

Whichever style you choose, as long as it's a space that you are happy with that is all that matters. Don't be afraid to try mixing patterns, colors, or textures. Just have fun with your creativity and watch the magic begin.

Tip of the week:
You can find some inexpensive disposable dinnerware with beautiful & elegant designs. Although they are plastic, the quality of these dishes appear to be the real thing. There is something out there for every style and every budget. 

XoXo,
Erica McMillon

Hello Friends,
My name is Erica McMillon, I am the Owner of E.C. Elegant Designs, LLC. I am a northern NJ native, but currently reside in northern VA. I started this company exactly 4 years ago and I am so grateful that I did. I have been doing and being inspired by Interior Design & decor since I was about 7 years old. Although I have led a career in Finance and Administrative management over the past 6 years, my passion has always been designing, decorating, and writing. I am a mom of two beautiful children and a wife to the most amazing husband. I have earned two degrees thus far, and am hoping to obtain a third after this pandemic. I have always enjoyed traveling the world, meeting new friends, learning about different cultures, languages, trying new foods, and new adventures. I have a special place in my heart for fashion and art. Interior Design is something that came naturally to me since singing wasn't my forte LOL! I've decided to start this blog because I truly enjoy sharing my ideas, inspirations, tips, tricks, my processes, and my projects with my social media followers, clients, friends and family. I hope that you enjoy my content and are inspired along the way. What you can expect on my Bi-weekly blog are tips for decorating on a budget, my processes when working on a project, inspirational content, my opinion on all types of styles or holiday decor, how to purchase timeless pieces, and anything in particular my followers may be interested in learning. Thank you for supporting me throughout my Interior Design journey. I look forward to creating beautiful spaces with you all. Please feel free to leave any questions or comments in the section below. 

Tip of the Week:
A quick way to transform a space on a budget can be achieved by switching pillow covers on existing throw pillows, adding a throw blanket and/ or rug, adding a book or an accent piece to tie it all in. 

XoXo,
Erica McMillon