Ann Gilbert has led our design team since 2022. With more than 20 years in the field of interior design , Ann excels in guiding clients through every phase of the design process and can provide design direction for homes of every size, style, and price range. She is committed to helping homeowners realize the potential of any room…or an entire house.
Ann’s fundamental philosophy is simple: “I believe that every home should tell your story and every room should have a beautiful and comfortable place to sit. Function and form can and should go hand in hand in every room.” She elaborates, “It involves considered choices teamed with a sense of bravery and a careful understanding of scale, balance, and cohesion. Above all, your home should reflect your personal style in every room.” We couldn’t agree more.
Our clients will tell you that we are not the typical “snooty” design firm. Our goal is to give our clients a livable design that doesn’t break the bank. We believe everyone deserves to love the home they live in. Just like our approach to Home Staging, we understand that every service we provide needs to offer value to those we serve, and Ann is grounded in these same principles.
Now is always the best time to get started on creating a beautiful space that is uniquely yours. Call our office 248.591.4290 to set up a consultation with Ann, or visit our services page for more information on our design package options.
Visit our Interior Design gallery for some examples of our work, and be sure to follow our blog for more features, tips, and trends curated by Ann and her team.
https://impactids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/ImpactIDSweb.png00Sara Pomishhttps://impactids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/ImpactIDSweb.pngSara Pomish2024-03-03 18:07:482024-03-03 19:58:31INTERIOR DESIGN IS IN OUR DNA
As we enter a new year, the world of interior design is brimming with creative concepts. At Impact Interior Design Services, we look forward to our annual review of industry publications and news, and we’ve curated a selection of our favorite trends for this year. We predict these are poised to make a significant “Impact!” in 2024.
The overall theme for 2024 is a welcome combination of coziness, wrapped in sophistication and modern allure. Anticipate a transformation in living spaces as these trends take center stage in the coming year.
TRENDING: Cozy Spaces
While open-plan living has been popular for a while, consumers and designers are discovering that walls aren’t necessarily evil and people do need their personal space. The result is a trend toward more intimate layouts in which to socialize, read and relax.
For maximum coziness, we recommend deeper colors on the walls, drapery panels and bookshelves. In larger rooms, floating furniture away from walls creates smaller, more intimate seating areas that are conducive to cocktails, conversation and cuddling.
TRENDING: Rich color (and blue!)
In with the bold! Rich hues are in and anything gray is out. In 2024 you will see earthy browns, rich terracotta and deep oranges shades. These saturated hues bring comfort and hominess to your spaces by creating a welcoming atmosphere.
In 2024, green is making way for blue. In shades ranging from sky to Robin’s egg to navy, blue is the “it” color on everyone’s “This Year’s Hottest” list.
Bold to serene and everything in between, you’ll see blue on walls, cabinets, and textiles this year. If you’re not ready to commit to an entirely blue room, a blue ceiling is evocative of the outdoors and can be a lovely touch in a bedroom or kitchen.
Photo: Stephen Kent Johnson / Styling: Colin King
TRENDING: Black Accent Walls
Soft black walls resonate in the design world because bolder, moodier colors make a dramatic yet sophisticated statement. At once modern and timeless, it creates a stunning backdrop for art and furniture.
A matte finish is best here; dark walls with sheen tend to highlight imperfections in the plaster or sheetrock. Wallpaper is one option for this look; today’s peel and stick papers make it easy to do a wall like this one without worrying about painting over a dark color later.
It’s definitely a bold approach but it’s so elegant, and it’s showing up everywhere, in keeping with the coziness trends we’re seeing in 2024.
TRENDING: Warm, Inviting Kitchens
White is out, wood is in. The trend is toward earthy color palettes and plenty of wood tones (yes, mixing woods is fine!). Simple backsplashes is a kitchen trend that we love; timeless is always a good choice for tile.
Integrated appliances and other European-style elements (range hoods!) are evident while cabinets and appliances continue to innovate with new features to elevate your culinary experience and better support a busy lifestyle.
Time for a new look?
We’ve just barely scratched the surface for 2024, so we’ll be updating our blog with more specific trends throughout the year. Watch for what’s happening in textiles, furniture, paint colors, even doors…coming soon!
Our design team is excited by this year’s outlook. Why not try one of these trends on for size? We can help you with anything from an update to your existing décor or a fresh start, in one room or an entire home!
With the holidays upon us and home entertaining in full swing, it’s easy to overlook the significance of a seemingly modest space—the powder room. This often-neglected corner of your home holds tremendous potential, as it’s the one room that everyone visits. Why not transform it into a spectacular and memorable part of your home?
Impact Interior Design’s team tapped into the talent and expertise of our lead designer, Ann Gilbert, for tips on leveraging the untapped possibilities of powder room decorating and to provide insights on making this little room a treat for both you and your guests.
A Canvas for Creativity
Powder rooms offer a unique opportunity to create something unexpected. Despite their small size and often windowless nature, these rooms can become a design treasure chest when you let your creativity run wild.
“In the field of kitchen and bath design, the powder room stands out as a canvas for creativity, where even the smallest details can make a big impact,” says Ann.
“It’s a jewel-box-sized canvas waiting to be adorned with unique features that captivate anyone who steps inside.”
Attention to Detail
While the standard elements of a bathroom—cabinetry, countertop, faucet, sink, and toilet—may seem mundane, they don’t have to be. Little details make big impact, and with a small space like the powder room, you can afford to invest in higher-end finishes.
Ann believes that “In the powder room, every detail matters. From the comfort height toilet to the choice of faucets, attention to detail elevates the space from ordinary to extraordinary.”
Making a Statement with Fixtures
One of the easiest ways to make a statement in your powder room is through the choice of fixtures. A well-designed and eye-catching light fixture can instantly transform the ambiance of the room. According to Ann, “I like to let the fixtures do the talking. A statement mirror or stunning light fixture with a dimmer switch can turn a functional space into a captivating experience.”
Materials that Wow
“Don’t skimp on quality when it comes to materials,” Ann suggests. The size of this space lets you be a little ‘extra’ without breaking the bank. You can get maximum impact at minimal cost. “Glass, porcelain, and wallpaper; think small amounts of material with big impact.” Turn your powder room into a visual delight with materials that leave a lasting impression.
Less is More
Remember the old adage, “less is more.” By focusing on quality over quantity, you allow the unique features of the room to shine without overwhelming the senses. “Simplicity is the ultimate in sophistication. In the powder room, invest in upgraded fixtures and let them be the stars of the show.”
Power Up Your Powder Room
With a touch of creativity, attention to detail, and the right fixtures and materials, you can transform this often-neglected space into a true gem within your home. Our design team can help elevate your powder room to a place of distinction—one that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who crosses its threshold.
https://impactids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/ImpactIDSweb.png00Sara Pomishhttps://impactids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/ImpactIDSweb.pngSara Pomish2023-12-04 19:32:432023-12-04 19:39:18Impact Interior Design Services on Unleashing the Power of the Powder Room
Most services begin with a scheduled Design Consultation For new clients, this is an entry level consultation to ease clients into the design process.
A home consultation will include discussing and determining the scope of your project with one of our Designers. Our discussion may include paint color ideas, furniture placement, décor editing, material selection ideas (where applicable), solving general design dilemmas and more!
Prior to the consultation we’ll give you some homework to prepare for the meeting. (It’s fun homework, we promise.) We’ll ask you to think about and capture ideas you would like to incorporate into the project. We usually begin the discussion about a singular décor problem that needs to be solved quickly… often times we can begin to execute a solution during this meeting/consultation!
Then we get to work in determining the scope of what you want, exchange ideas and determine what should stay or go in your current décor. Upon completion, we have a vision for styling, color, storage and lifestyle-enhancing necessities. Pricing: $249
Ann Gilbert, Interior Designer of Impact Interior Design shares some not so obvious tips before working with a designer. Time is Money! And she wants to make sure you get your money’s worth when working with Impact. Having these tips in the back of your mind will help you achieve the best results possible.
Tip #1: DO Ask Questions (And We Will Too!)
We are never quite sure what we are going to walk into at that first visit.
Back in my earlier years, I took any and all clients that I could get. Over the years I’ve learned that there are some red flags that I make myself aware of at this first, very important consult. I’ve learned to approach the clients with lots of questions to see if we are going to be a good fit. This is true not only for the designer but also for the homeowner. Maybe you won’t like my design style or approach to decorating. It’s important to ask the questions. This is your space, and you need the right person for the job.
Tip #2: DON’T SWALLOW THE ELEPHANT
During my first visit here is what always happens: You want everything done and you don’t know where to begin. When I go to any new appointment, I will tell you that 90% of my clients call me to their home for one room but I end up going through the entire house with them. The frustrations of failed attempts at within the home quickly take us off track.
Best advice I can give to you is to tackle one room at a time. Don’t swallow the elephant! Even though other spaces need attention, focusing on one room is best. Inevitably, nothing will get done and certainly not the spaces that need it the most. While we are focusing our attention on one room, any good designer is keeping the other rooms in mind even if they’re not going to be redesigned now.
Image from Today.com
Tip #3: DON’T Go into This Thinking You Want the Magazine Photo as Is
Because even though we do our very best to bring you that look you will certainly want to bring in your own pieces. We’ve all walked into those perfectly decorated model homes where everything is in its place with perfect symmetry and perfection. What we don’t see our personal photos, personal belongings, dads favorite chair – faded and all. We don’t see the family heirlooms like moms old dining table that we just can’t part with and the family dog photo that MUST be displayed. We are designers. Our job is to make your home beautiful and a place you want to be in. We can work with just about any clients’ items.
Tip #4: DO Know Your Budget
Be realistic but add fluff – usually 20%. As much as we want to stay in that budget when furnishing your spaces, there is with every client that sofa they sat in and has to have! Or that piece of art that just speaks to you!
When we ask what you’ve set aside for this budget, give us a number. I need to know if I’m shopping for furniture at Target or Gormans.
WE KNOW WHAT THINGS COST! We deal with it every day. Trust what we tell you. If it can be done, we will make it happen. Our reputation and referrals depend on it. I can replace the kitchen cabinets, get you the 42” cooktop, but we are painting your table and chairs. Get it?
Tip #4: STAY IN YOUR LANE – FIND YOUR STYLE
Find your style. Everybody has one. Sometimes it takes some research, and I can help with that…but find it. Many clients simply don’t know what they like, or they say they don’t so I pick what I think will work best, usually to start them off, and they begin to reveal their likes and dislikes and eventually we can find out who they are. It can actually be a fun process, but it takes some strategy, and plenty of open-mindedness. A good designer can work with anything and will help you reveal your style. Now we can work this style throughout the home.
Tip #5: Home Decor Should Flow
What did I say about Don’t Swallow the Elephant? When doing any one space I am always keeping the other spaces in the back of my mind. The whole house should have a natural flow to it. And each room should speak to the next. A main color in one room can be a secondary color in the next while an accent color or pattern can be brought in 3 different rooms in 3 different ways. Count on your designer to create this for you. It’s what we do!
Bottom Line
I want you to be happy with your experience. I want you to be over the moon with the space created. It is your home and at the end of the day, you are the ones that are going to be enjoying it! Ask your questions, have a budget, have fun, be realistic, and find your own unique style. It is our job as designers to help you create a space that is personal to you, and your lifestyle. Keeping these tips in mind will allow you to stretch your dollar and get the most out of our services and get great results. I look forward to working with you on your next space!
https://impactids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/ImpactIDSweb.png00Darla Rowleyhttps://impactids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/ImpactIDSweb.pngDarla Rowley2022-07-08 09:35:282022-07-08 09:35:33Tips From a Designer You Should Know
In this Article, our Interior Designer will be sharing her very own 7 must-have principles in creating the perfect design for your home.
With over 20 years in the field of Interior Design, Ann is bringing her talents and vision to Impact Interior Design Services. Ann has been using her professional talent through Metro-Detroit by guiding clients through every phase of the design process.
Ann’s fundamental philosophy is: “I believe that every home should be tell your story and every room should have a great place to sit. I believe that function AND form can go hand in hand and every room should possess both. It involves considered choices teamed with a sense of bravery and a careful understanding of scale, balance, and cohesion. Most of all, your home and every room should reflect your style.”
“I believe that every home should tell your story and every room should have a great place to sit. I believe that function AND form can go hand in hand, and every room should possess both. It involves considered choices teamed with a sense of bravery and a careful understanding of scale, balance, and cohesion. Most of all, your home and every room should reflect your style.”
Ann Gilbert, Impact Interior Design Services
Ann understands many of our clients want good design without breaking the bank. Using her uniquely creative approach she can start with what our clients already own, or she can create more dramatic results by starting from scratch.
At Impact, we are excited about the heightened level of professionalism and creativity that Ann brings to our design team. Below are her 7 rules she wants to share with you when she is creating just that.
Sounds like a lot to remember but all hold their own place in Interior Design and are equally important. Most of the time I’m not thinking about it but all of the time I know when a space needs one of these. Call it experience, call it creativity… Call it whatever you like. It is what designers use and its how we do what we do. Sometimes it comes naturally and other times it poses more of a challenge. Although, EVERY time you know when you’ve got it right. And so, the room feels complete.
The real definition: The principles of design are a set of rules that designers can follow when creating a composition to create visually pleasing work. The purpose of these rules is to deliver a message in the most organized and functional way.
You can read endless articles on how to define the above but I’m going to simplify it for you and give you my “7 Principles Of Design” – MY rules and tips. We will use a typical living room as our example.
Ann’s Rules:
Find your focal point. Fireplace, window, TV. Pick one. Work your whole arrangement around that. Balance
Take the largest piece of furniture and place it along your largest wall. Doesn’t mean its flush, it might need to float away from it depending on its space. Scale
Stay neutral for walls and large furniture pieces and add from there. If you’re someone who is not sure what they like. It is easier to add secondary and accent colors to a neutral wall color or sofa. Adding your secondary and accent colors for interest. Contrast
Some may argue this but it is my tried and true rule. And when working patterns within a space there should be a large scale, medium scale and small scale print. You can use one or all but never two of the same. Pattern
Keep in mind conversation areas and places to set a drink or a plate. Every seat should have one. Movement
The 3 color rule: One main color – usually the largest piece; Secondary Color is its compliment and usually is in the chairs or ottoman; Accent color – dotted sparing throughout the space. Rhythm
Lighting and mirrors. Your lighting is your jewelry. It can never be too big. So play it up! Every room needs it. Your mirrors bring in light and if placed properly, bounce that light around a room. Reflection
https://impactids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/ImpactIDSweb.png00impactids_adminhttps://impactids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/ImpactIDSweb.pngimpactids_admin2022-05-03 13:26:222022-05-03 13:36:33Principles of Design that make an Impact
Several key design publications and influencers have focused on the interior design trends that will lead into next year. We see big changes coming in interior treatments already. Better Homes and Gardens focused on the 8 that we think are most prevalent (link to their article here) but focus on our favorites below.
Which trend inspires you to give your home an update for 2022? Let us know in the comments. We love to hear your thoughts!
Though we offer a wide variety of Interior Design Services for Metro Detroiters and Ann Arbor residents, we are excited to introduce our (drum roll, please)…
https://impactids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Room-to-Go-Image-6.jpg598757Darla Rowleyhttps://impactids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/ImpactIDSweb.pngDarla Rowley2021-12-23 11:11:312021-12-23 12:56:56CUSTOM Made Furniture In-Stock NOW! Made in the USA!
Thanks mostly to Hollywood, most of us conjure up images of extravagant processes, dramatic individuals and huge budgets when we think of interior designers. Though in some cases that may be true, it is certainly not always the case. In fact, a part of the reason we established Impact Interior Design was to assure greater flexibility, ease and options for those who desire help in creating their dream home interior.
https://impactids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Why-Hire-an-Interior-Designer-Header-Photo.jpg6821024Darla Rowleyhttps://impactids.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/ImpactIDSweb.pngDarla Rowley2021-12-23 10:27:102021-12-23 12:56:26Why Hire an Interior Designer (and What To Expect When you Do!)
