Ep. 242: Renovation Tips with Rasheeda Gray

Published: March 1, 2022, 8 a.m.

b'Our guest today is the inspiring and highly knowledgeable interior designer Rasheeda Gray. Her Philadelphia-based firm, Gray Space Interior Design, specializes in residential and boutique commercial projects. Her work has been featured in Better Homes and Gardens, Architectural Digest, ELLE D\\xe9cor, HGTV, and more. In 2021 Rasheeda was named one of House Beautiful\\u2019s Next Wave Designers. This episode is all about renovating! Rasheeda gives us tips and tricks for the entire renovation process, insight into her personal and professional experience answers all of your renovation questions and more. She gives us an in-depth look at why planning is so important as well as how to stay focused and on budget!\\n\\nWhat You\\u2019ll Hear on This Episode:\\n\\nWhat kind of questions should you ask yourself before a home renovation project?\\n\\nRasheeda walks us through the budget and pricing process.\\n\\nHow often do clients veer off course during renovations?\\n\\nIs it better to renovate project-by-project or all at once?\\n\\nWhen to hire a professional vs. when it\\u2019s okay to DIY.\\n\\nHow supply chain issues are affecting renovation projects and what delays to expect.\\n\\nThe importance of taking a holistic approach to renovation and design planning.\\n\\nHow to keep a focus and theme during the entire process.\\n\\nHow much should you worry about resale value when renovating?\\n\\nWhat colors are trending in 2022 and where can you use them?\\n\\nIf you\\u2019re on a tight budget, what one room would Rasheeda suggest focusing on?\\n\\nThe importance of getting measurements and creating a floorplan.\\n\\n\\nDecorating Dilemma:\\nHi Tracy,\\nThis is definitely a complex design dilemma! Keeping in mind that you want the space to be comfy and inviting, let\\u2019s start there. Since there are no defined walls I would suggest you float the furniture. I would recommend getting an area rug that\\u2019s big enough to contain all the furniture and ground the space. I would lean towards putting the sectional on the window wall. Then I would have 2 chairs and maybe a small ottoman flanking the sofa to create conversational areas. The ping pong table is a really difficult addition to this space! But you could put it to the far right side of the room. If possible, I would look for a table where you can put a cover or nicer fabric over it that makes it look less \\u201cping pong-y!\\u201d To save space I would put some ottomans for seating in this zone that can slide under the table. Regarding window treatments, I wouldn\\u2019t cover the windows since you love that natural light. Think of window treatments like eyebrows in that they frame and complete the look. It will give the room a sense of cohesiveness, as well. On those 2 thin windows on either side of the main window, I would hang the curtain rods the same height and use one small panel on each. If you\\u2019re worried about baseboard heaters you could use shades, but I don\\u2019t think it\\u2019s a problem. I prefer floor-length curtains for this space and you could always use tiebacks when you use the heaters. The chandelier is a bit big and formal for the space so if you\\u2019re looking to change it, I would personally get rid of it. If you have a choice I would go with recessed lights throughout the space with a few accent lamps, as well. For paint, I always say pick it last. You can certainly go with white, but to make the space feel really cozy I would go with a medium neutral color like a taupe or gray to warm it up. One of my favorites is Repose Gray. Then bring color in with all of your furniture, artwork, accessories, etc.\\nWe\\u2019re so glad you enjoy the show, Tracy! Please send us the after photos!\\n\\nMentioned in This Episode:\\n\\nGray Space Interior Design\\n\\nGray Space Interior Design on Instagram\\n\\nGray Space Interior Design on Facebook\\n\\nGray Space Interior Design on YouTube\\n\\nGray Space Interior Design on Pinterest\\n\\nHouse Beautiful Next Wave Designers'