2024-03-19 18:28
For homeowners who have an existing deck, or for those considering building one, we have some creative and fun ideas for you! With people enjoying their homes more, taking “staycations… Read More
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Laura U Interior Design Journal Blog
laurauinteriordesign.com
Find design inspiration and exclusive project reveals in this blog from residential interior designer, Laura Umansky and her team.
2024-03-15 10:54
As Spring dips into its vibrant palette and paints its way across the Houston landscape, there’s no better time to celebrate the native plants that embody the spirit and resilience of… Read More
2024-03-13 21:21
Whether embraced as bold accents or as a soothing neutral base, green hues offer a versatility and timelessness unmatched by other colors. The color green can transform a space in countless… Read More
2024-03-07 16:51
In celebration of International Women’s Day, our women-led interior design firm pays homage to the trailblazing female icons of architecture and interior design who have shaped our ind… Read More
2024-03-05 02:12
From the hustle and bustle of Houston to the serene mountain air of Aspen, LUDC’s twin hometowns offer a plethora of charming restaurants perfect for a memorable date night. The ideal… Read More
2024-02-22 19:39
Whether you are renovating a kitchen and butler’s pantry or updating your primary bath, nothing beats the charm and functionality of custom cabinets. Of course, designing bespoke millw… Read More
2024-02-08 00:10
Valentine’s Day has evolved into so much more than a commercial holiday. It symbolizes commitment, appreciation, and mutual understanding. The love you share with your partner is uniqu… Read More
2024-01-15 21:59
From the incorporation of eco-friendly materials and minimalist designs to the resurgence of vintage aesthetics and the integration of multifunctional elements, fireplace designs are becomin… Read More
2024-01-13 02:21
As the first month of 2024 comes to a close, homeowners considering a house remodel are understandably concerned about the changing costs associated with those projects. Today’s home r… Read More
2024-01-02 15:32
As we bid farewell to another remarkable year, it’s time to reflect on our journey over the last twelve months. For Laura U Design Collective, this year has been one of creativity, com… Read More
2023-12-12 19:32
In this season of warmth and celebration, we view selecting the perfect gift for a gracious hostess as an absolute art form. From adorable olive-embroidered cocktail napkins to a charming te… Read More
2023-11-13 22:20
Color psychology—a field at the intersection of psychology and design—examines how colors influence human emotions and behaviors. For interior designers, this understanding is pi… Read More
2023-09-29 04:09
Over the years, our team at Laura U Design Collective has created and updated dozens of home offices. Some are quirky and colorful like the home office at Circle Drive. Others are serene and… Read More
2023-09-17 10:00
With Fall and Winter fast approaching, many of us will be spending more time at home. During these cozier months, we often search for ways to create special spaces that capture our memories… Read More
2023-09-07 21:14
Lighting plays a pivotal role in interior design. It not only enhances the aesthetics of a space but also profoundly influences its functionality. Lighting also influences our mood and cogni… Read More
2023-08-29 21:15
A few years ago, our team embarked on a renovation of and addition to the stunning 1974 Bauhuas Expressionist home revealed in this post. We sought to preserve this one-of-a-kind home design… Read More
2023-08-17 17:41
Just a few years ago, extreme minimalism was all the rage. Many interiors were beige and a bit bland. Some were downright clinical. We can certainly appreciate a measured approach to minimal… Read More
2023-08-09 17:29
Whether you live in a wildfire hazard severity zone (FHSZ), a FEMA flood zone, or a hurricane evacuation zone, home hardening can help protect your property from significant damage during n… Read More
2023-07-31 22:21
Everyone loves a clutter-free countertop, but no one enjoys rifling through drawers or rooting around the pantry while cooking for one’s family or preparing to entertain guests. Keepi… Read More
2023-07-21 22:06
As we approach the dog days of summer, many of us are finalizing plans for Labor Day weekend and squeezing in a few more weeks of fun. For some, this means one last trip to their beach hous… Read More
2023-07-15 16:20
As noted in a recent post in the Journal, homeowners undertake gut renovations or whole home remodels after natural disasters like winter storms, hurricanes, tornados, earthquakes, and wild… Read More
2023-07-12 19:37
Over the last few months, we have celebrated the architecture and interiors of Houston’s historic homes. We reveled in the revival architecture of Westmoreland, West Eleventh Place, a… Read More
2023-07-05 19:18
A gut renovation is a major undertaking. However, it can make a massive difference in property value and quality of life if executed by the right design team. During gut remodels, specialist… Read More
2023-06-27 23:54
As we note in our recent historic homes series, modern interpretations of Neoclassical interior design and architecture are all over Houston. Prizing symmetry, simplicity, and sophistication… Read More
2023-06-21 04:12
When designing attached ADUs – affectionately called Mother-in-Law suites – one must consider accessibility, privacy, and connectivity. Whether a parent, grandparent, or other el… Read More
2023-06-13 08:58
Metallic accents are the perfect way to add a dash of glam to any interior. Whether you want an eye-catching statement piece or just a subtle sheen, there are plenty of options to add a bit… Read More
2023-06-09 03:07
Your guest house might typically serve as a crash pad for adult offspring or a vacation spot for friends visiting from out of town. But as our parents and friends age, accessible guest house… Read More
2023-05-30 19:55
In Part III of our Historic Homes in Houston series, we explore the city’s Early, Mid-Century, and Postmodern architecture. Houston is home to many Modern buildings due in part to seve… Read More
2023-05-26 23:12
Welcome to Part II of our Historic Homes in Houston series. This week’s post will focus on Revival styles of architecture. Houston’s historic neighborhoods are filled with C… Read More
2023-05-12 02:38
From Miesian and Mid-Century Modern to Tudor Revival and Queen Anne, the greater Houston area is home to many historic homes. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Houston was also home to iconic… Read More
2023-05-09 17:04
Mother’s Day is just around the corner! Maybe you plan to celebrate your own mom this Mother’s Day. Or perhaps you’d like to honor your wife, partner, aunt, grandmother, fr… Read More
2023-04-20 17:17
Whether stone or ceramic, tile is one of the most versatile elements you can use in your home. It is also one of the most ancient and enduring decorative elements found in homes around the w… Read More
2023-04-13 02:40
With the summer months quickly approaching, everyone will be headed out to the pool in no time. Whether you plan to entertain friends, host family or create your own retreat, a pool house is… Read More
2023-04-10 17:47
Acting as steward of a historic home is both rewarding and challenging. Homeowners simultaneously take great joy in restoring historic houses and stress about the issues a renovation might… Read More
2023-03-22 01:51
At Laura U Design Collective, we pride ourselves on creating spaces that embody our two mantras: “livable luxury” and “for the love of home.” Produced through a partn… Read More
2023-03-16 16:12
Every guest – whether an elderly parent or grandchild, close friend or colleague – should feel welcome when staying in your home. While that welcome starts with a bright foyer an… Read More
2023-03-09 02:15
Installing a plaster range hood is an easy way to create a stunning architectural element. Plaster range hoods elevate your kitchen without disrupting its flow or functionality. Finished to… Read More
2023-02-20 11:20
Whether a vacation house or a primary residence, planning a whole home remodel can be complicated, time-consuming and a bit overwhelming. Thankfully, there are ways to mitigate the stress of… Read More
2023-02-16 09:31
If you’re starting a new design project, choosing a color palette for home home may seem like it’s the first thing you need to do. Your home, after all, will be your sanctuary, a… Read More
2023-02-08 15:41
Your home’s interior can be functional and family-friendly while expressing your unique design aesthetic. Family-friendly homes can embrace bold colors and intriguing textures that del… Read More
2023-02-06 10:29
Homeowners embark on kitchen remodeling projects for all sorts of reasons. They remodel to make their kitchens more energy efficient, more functional for their families and more enjoyable wh… Read More
2023-02-02 10:35
We all have a place where the “stuff” gets dropped when you walk into the house. Shoes, book bags, mail, and even the dog’s leash. Maybe it’s next to the front door o… Read More
2023-01-30 15:54
Stair runners are a functional, fun way to add personality to your home’s foyer. From the Rice Residence foyer to the Colonial Drive entryway, our portfolio showcases a number of… Read More
2023-01-22 08:59
Strasburg steps into a new role at the award-winning interior design firm
Houston, TX – Megan Strasburg has stepped into the Director of Residential Design role at Laura U Design Colle… Read More
2023-01-12 07:25
Many homeowners place finding a rug last on their decorating to-do list, when it should actually rank towards the top. After all, the right rug can make an enormous functional and aesthetic… Read More
2023-01-09 16:42
We love designing with color and selecting hues that match our client’s personality. Whether you’re using color on the ceiling or as an accent wall, color adds an extra visual di… Read More
2023-01-03 16:45
Since 2006 when Laura Umansky founded the Laura U Interior Design firm, we never anticipated that we would grow to where we are today. Over the last fifteen years, we have expanded our studi… Read More
2022-12-15 09:52
2022 was a momentous year for Laura U Design Collective. We hosted a fête filled with friends, partners and colleagues to celebrate fifteen years in business. We put the finishing touc… Read More
2022-12-12 20:01
Restoring a historic home is much like renovating any other house. Many historic home restoration steps one must undertake are quite similar. In both, one must determine project scope, meet… Read More
2022-12-05 19:26
For all of us at Laura U Design Collective, the love of home is a guiding force. It exists at the center of everything we create, and has inspired our firm’s approach since 2006. We ar… Read More
2022-11-29 14:42
Focus on mental and physical wellness came to the fore shortly after COVID-19 emerged. Renewed discussions about home health naturally intertwined themselves with conversations about sustai… Read More
2022-11-28 07:57
The River Oaks neighborhood of Houston, Texas is a multigenerational mix of historic homes, mid-century manors and new construction estates. For the Colonial Drive project outlined below, ou… Read More
2022-11-22 17:45
What does lodge living mean to you? Musty bear skin rugs and dusty trophies all over the wall? Say goodbye to fussy old-fashioned log cabins and hello to modern mountain homes, where beautif… Read More
2022-11-15 10:01
What’s one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to instantly “dress up” yo… Read More
2022-11-10 10:00
How To Mix Color with Modern Design
Many of the same philosophies embodied by modern art and architecture – like innovation, utilitarianism and abstraction – can be found in mode… Read More
2022-11-07 15:55
The holidays are here and the Laura U Design Collective team is ready to celebrate! We’ve put… Read More
2022-11-02 16:40
Every six months, Laura and other members of our studio make the pilgrimage to High Point, North Car… Read More
2022-10-28 10:39
There are so many ways you can add drama to a room. A fabulous light fixture, a gorgeous… Read More
2022-10-25 08:47
From grand chandeliers to sculptural sconces, statement lighting truly makes a space. Unfortunately… Read More
2022-10-20 09:50
Millions of Americans began working from home — either temporarily, semi-permanently or full… Read More
2022-10-14 12:01
Interior design is about so much more than just beautiful furnishings. We believe the objects we br… Read More
2022-10-14 10:46
Reveal day is finally here! Over the past several weeks, we’ve been detailing the southwester… Read More
2022-10-13 16:29
Homeowners remodel their kitchens for all sorts of reasons. They remodel to make their kitchens more… Read More
2022-10-06 10:18
Elegant and organic, the French Modern interior design style is a genre of juxtapositions. It pairs gilded accents with natural elements and contemporary art with antique furniture. The Fren… Read More
2022-10-04 09:22
“I believe that telling the homeowner’s personal story is paramount, understanding o… Read More
2022-09-30 12:20
One of the many families to seek out alternative accommodations during the pandemic, LUDC’s H… Read More
2022-09-30 09:12
In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans exercised and entertained outdoors because it was the only way to socialize safely. More than two years later, a greater number of Ameri… Read More
2022-09-30 08:00
In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans exercised and entertained outdoors because it was the only way to socialize safely. More than two years later, a greater number of Ameri… Read More
2022-09-29 10:04
The staircase is one of the main focal points of your home’s entryway. It is part of the firs… Read More
2022-09-29 09:30
Our favorite part about designing bedrooms for kids is getting to know the children. We are excited to share some of our boys bedroom design ideas to inspire you!
We love having our client… Read More
2022-09-27 10:33
Designing a bathroom can be daunting. After all, materials must stand up to high humidity and daily use. No matter their size or location, every bathroom should be both durable and beautiful… Read More
2022-09-23 10:03
Hanging bougainvillea, statuesque poplar firs, blooming cypress, and well-manicured boxwoods&hellip… Read More
2022-09-20 17:07
WELCOME HOME
Our approach to interior design is client-centric and site-specific, thoughtfully mixing furnishings and accessories, in a way that is bold, contrasting, and timeless. Our sign… Read More
2022-09-19 10:17
Over the last three years, the Laura U Design Collective collaborated with the architecture firm studioMET, and our Braeswood Place clients to craft a truly special space that honors their l… Read More
2022-09-15 10:00
After the COVID-19 pandemic and several lockdowns, homeowners simply do not take their outdoor living space for granted. This year’s interior design and home renovation trends both dem… Read More
2022-09-07 09:12
Shannon Smith Announced as Laura U Design Collective’s New Director of Interior Design
Smith steps into a new role at the award-winning design firm
Houston, TX – Shannon Smith h… Read More
2022-09-06 09:39
MAKE ANY ROOM LUXURIOUS WITH JEWEL TONE DESIGN TRENDS
After many months spent at home, Americans are looking for ways to mix things up. We are searching for ways in which to create spaces th… Read More
2022-08-15 14:56
When remodeling an existing house or building a new custom home, owners hope to create an inviting space that evolves with them over time. They want a home that will meet their needs and cap… Read More
2022-08-10 06:00
Home Additions & Renovations: Take a Virtual Tour of Our Hedwig Village Project
As a residential building design firm, we often tackle interior design, major gut remodels, and new const… Read More
2022-08-09 09:14
Instead of moving house when they need more space, many homeowners choose to build onto their existing property. Based on local restrictions and your family’s lifestyle, an interior re… Read More
2022-08-05 09:05
The typical laundry room formula of subway tiles, winter white walls and pine board flooring is classic and reliably pretty. However, after decades of similar designs, it can feel a bit too… Read More
2022-07-27 09:00
Whether you’re involved in a renovation or starting a new construction project, there’s a lot to think about in terms of your home’s exterior design. Landsca… Read More
2022-07-14 09:56
Any established design firm – whether a sole proprietorship or a multi-office international – will have a portfolio. Prospective clients can browse each design firm’s portf… Read More
2022-07-06 05:43
University Place can be found in the West University suburb of Houston. In this Houston neighborhood, tree-lined streets, large lots, unique boutiques and incredible restaurants draw young f… Read More
2022-07-05 01:59
Working with a full-service design firm on your custom home means collaborating with an incredibly organized, focused and creative team of professionals. Our in-house designers work closely… Read More
2022-06-21 19:42
With July Fourth weekend just around the corner, we are officially in the thick of summer! We are anticipating many parties and gatherings this year and have our event planning hats on. Whe… Read More
2022-06-20 09:00
The key to creating a gorgeous custom home within the client’s budget and timeline is assembling a stellar team of designers, builders and engineers. While some clients choose each mem… Read More
2022-06-17 09:15
Over the last fifteen years, esteemed designer Laura Umansky has transformed her boutique interiors practice into a widely celebrated full-service design firm. Today, the Laura U Design Coll… Read More
2022-06-10 09:42
Beginning with an initial consultation and ending with a final reveal, the interior design process is very similar from firm to firm. What sets our process apart is our client-first approach… Read More
2022-05-25 07:00
Whether you just purchased a new home or you are looking to refresh the interior of your current home, renovations are a great way to create the functionality you need. In addition to upgrad… Read More
2022-05-25 07:00
Whether you just purchased a new home or you are looking to refresh the interior of your current home, renovations are a great way to create the functionality you need. In addition to upgrad… Read More
2022-05-24 09:25
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us adapted to a life spent mostly at home. While restaurants were delivery-only and bars were non-operational, we cooked our own meals and mixed our own… Read More
2022-05-16 08:00
When we introduced our Mountain Lane Show House project back in January 2021, our multidisciplinary team was brimming with excitement over its potential. Together, we brought Mountain Lane d… Read More
2022-05-06 09:00
Summertime means vacations, laying out by the pool and gathering with friends for a relaxing dinner under the stars. It also means we’re halfway through the year and before you know it… Read More
2022-05-03 07:30
Friends, it has been a long-time dream to move to Colorado, and when Michael and I made the decision to move mid-2020, it was so important for us to select the perfect home for our family. A… Read More
2022-04-26 09:00
Mother’s Day is almost here, so it’s time to start thinking about your Mother’s Day gift ideas. 2022 has been a busy year already, and we know moms are the busiest of us al… Read More
2022-04-20 09:00
With rainstorms and wildflowers, spring is always a season for fresh starts and new beginnings. Spring-cleaning is another hallmark of the season. According to Emily Williams in a post for D… Read More
2022-04-08 18:32
Timeless and transcendent, white paint color is one of the most popular color choices for good reason. Selecting a white paint color will make a room appear bigger and allow your furnishings… Read More
2022-04-05 07:00
The owners of Oak Estate recently moved to Houston from New York. There, they lived in a much smaller space with a crisp, modernist aesthetic. Moving from an apartment in New York to a home… Read More
2022-03-24 09:27
Centuries after it was first invented, wallpaper remains popular amongst homeowners and interior designers alike. Interest in wallpaper waned after the 1980s, when glamour was overdone to th… Read More
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