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28Oct

Selecting Finishes: Where to start | Elevation Interiors

28 Oct, 2020 | Lifestyle, Designer Spotlight |

Designer Spotlight - Stephanie McLaughlin

Stephanie McLaughlin, owner of Elevation Interiors, has over 10 years of experience designing custom homes in Colorado. Whether it’s new construction, an extensive remodel, or a full furniture package, Stephanie is passionate about making each home the best reflection of her clients’ personalities. No two projects will ever look the same.


Starting with a blank slate can be overwhelming to many people. Clients are often unsure where to begin. The answer is not the exact same for every situation, but here are a few tips to help bring the overwhelming task down to size.

Elevation Interiors, Professional Interior Designers

No. 1: Hire A Professional

I always recommend hiring a professional. Depending on the scope of your project this can be a full-service interior design firm, which is what we offer at Elevation Interiors. Our role in the project varies to match what the specific client needs. It could also be a kitchen and bath designer or a design build company with an in-house team. Don’t be afraid to ask for references and if possible, a client who had a scope similar to yours.

No. 2: Establish Your Budget

Before you fall in love with a finish or product, decide what you are willing to invest in your project. For some people that number is flexible and for others it is firm. Be honest with the professional you hire. They are there to help you understand what is realistic within that number and guide you in the right direction. If you don’t know what your budget should be, ask for help to develop it.

No. 3: Decide What Your Most Important Piece Will Be

Where you want your focal point? This is what will vary most person to person. If you are considering your kitchen, do you want your focal point, or “wow factor”, to be your range and hood, kitchen island, or backsplash? Some people may say they don’t want a focal point which could lead to a very neutral, tone on tone design. When I found this gorgeous material at Francini Inc. in Denver, I knew it had to be the kitchen island for an upcoming project! The Forte Porcelain in Calacatta Borghini has a mix of warm and cool tones that lends it to work with many other elements. This material is a showstopper! Below it is shown installed in a bathroom.

Calacatta Borghini, a Forte Porcelain slab offered by Francini, Inc. Calacatta Borghini Forte Porcelain installed in a spacious bathroom

If you are having a hard time deciding on your focal point, think if you have a piece of art you want to use in the space, an heirloom piece of furniture, or a favorite color. All you need is one element to start, as large or small as that may be!

No. 4: Build Your Palette

Elevation Interior Kitchen Finishes | October 2020 Elevation Interiors Kitchen Finishes | October 2020

Once you’ve selected your most important or favorite item, you can start building the rest of your palette. For the Calacatta Borghini from Francini Inc., we paired it with a warm quarter sawn oak cabinet, polished nickel plumbing fixtures and white bronze hardware. When you are building your palette, getting physical samples of your selections is very important. If you select an item or material that has varying colors, get a few samples that represents the true range of colors you will see when installed. Always view your samples in lighting that is similar to what will be in your finished space. Warehouse or showroom lighting is not always the best representation.

Throughout your project take time to enjoy the process and get excited about the end result. If you hire the correct people along the way and trust their expertise, it will be a positive experience.

If you're interested in selecting the perfect finish for your project, contact Stephanie at Elevation Interiors. Visit the site at elevationinteriors.com or email her directly at stephanie@elevationinteriors.com.

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