Before and After Children's Study

BEFORE: Clutter, mess, minimal storage and disorganization made this small room a difficult place for homework and art projects.


AFTER: Now, the room is divided into five distinct zones:

1. A homework area with two desks


2. A memorabilia display ledge around the perimeter of the room


3. A supply and schedule center


4. A reading area


5. A TV area with two chairs and storage ottoman.

There is now plenty of room for organized storage and designated work stations. This room has become the family's favorite space in the house.

For additional photos of this project and other designs, check out the flash photo gallery on http://www.crabapplecottage.com/.

Whimsical Welcoming Room

This close-knit family treasures their family history and their front Welcoming Room is the perfect place to showcase their antiques and collectibles.

Silk fabric and lighting highlight the bookshelves brimming with memorabilia.

A multitude of fabrics dress the windows and upholstered seating in the room where the family gathers often for music and relaxation.

Holidays and family gatherings are extra special in a room like this one.

For additional photos of this project and other designs, check out the flash photo gallery on http://www.crabapplecottage.com/.

Gentleman's Office

This handsome home office is both comfortable and functional. Any busy executive would love to have a retreat such as this - a space where he can work in private yet still be near his family.



A seating area welcomes clients (and family!) and an organized desk/credenza area provides an efficient work space.



For additional photos on this project and other designs, check out the flash photo gallery on http://www.crabapplecottage.com/.

Spring Parade of Homes Design Project

Designer, Roberta Kortes, collaborated closely with builder and homeowner to create a one-of-a-kind custom home, complete with wrestling room and dance studio for their active children.

Comfortable living areas, lots of built-in storage and attention to detail give this home warmth and coziness, despite its large footprint.

For additional photos of this project and other designs, check out the flash photo gallery on http://www.crabapplecottage.com/.

Before & After Oak Kitchen Remodel

BEFORE: This outdated oak kitchen lacks pizzazz. The cabinetry, plaid wallpaper backsplash, light laminate countertops and flooring merge into one another without contrast. The room is missing a focal point and textural interest.

AFTER: Now this kitchen boasts a beautiful slate backsplash and decorative hood. The enlarged island and painted cabinetry are topped with granite countertops and a new snack and wine bar have replaced the unused desk area. This is a kitchen deserving to be called the Heart of the Home.

For additional photos of this project and other designs, check out the flash photo gallery on www.crabapplecottage.com.

Find your design inspiration

FIND YOUR DESIGN INSPIRATION

A favorite color, treasured art object or even a memento from a great vacation - any of these items can be the starting point for great design in your home. Find your design inspiration and use it to decorate in a way that speaks to your personal style.

Know Yourself
Take a tour of your own home. Do you notice you repeat a certain color in a variety of ways? Do objects, throw pillows, rugs or artwork seem to feature the same color family or design theme? Does a personal collection share the stage with your other décor? If so, you may have a more defined style than you realize. Sometimes when you live with something for awhile, you overlook its meaning. Try to step into your home with fresh eyes and rediscover what speaks to you from a design standpoint. Use that as your inspiration for the rest of your home.

Look Around
Next, observe the world around you. Are you drawn to particular objects in nature? Are there certain colors that evoke strong emotion? You might be inspired by what you experienced during a trip to a tropical paradise or you may want to capture the feel of a cozy ski lodge. From the natural world, memories of a great vacation or even a recent stop at the mall, any time you step out of your home, look to the items that catch your eye.

Find a Focal Point
A focal point creates visual interest and is often the first thing that draws your eye into a space. As you walk through your rooms, identify key focal points throughout your home. Is it a favorite piece of artwork, a distinguished architectural feature, a mirror or other collectible?

Theme - Styling
The possibilities are endless and should be as colorful and creative as your personality. Consider what hobbies, dreams, locations, experiences, collections or design elements could be used as themes in your home and begin to experiment.

Pull it all Together
A Design Professional can complete your design vision and recommend the best products and materials for your decorating or remodeling projects. A good Designer will not impose her style and tastes on you, but will apply her design expertise to your lifestyle. After all, your home should feel uniquely your own. Look for design inspiration in the world around you and learn to express your personal style.


For additional information, please visit our website http://www.crabapplecottage.com/
or contact us directly at http://www.crabapplecottage.com/contact-us.htm

Welcome To our Blog

About Crabapple Cottage Designs
Is a Minnesota-based residential Interior Design firm, specializing in European-influenced elegant design, as well as Country French, Cottage and Traditional Casual inspired, functional and comfortable interiors that are timeless and classic. Interior spaces are designed with the utmost respect for the client’s wishes, so that the final result is fully reflective of the client’s taste and lifestyle. Emphasis is on creating unique and inspiring rooms for entertaining and personal retreats for relaxation and enjoyment. Clients are provided with a detailed presentation of materials and design plans so they can visualize the entire space. Crabapple Cottage creates environments that are a delight to experience and are also a haven for rejuvenation.

Roberta Kortes, Owner and Principal Designer of Crabapple Cottage Designs, has a high level of energy, attention to detail and a passion for design. Integrity is the most important aspect of her business and she strives for complete client satisfaction in every project she is involved with. Whether creating a French Chateau motif, Tuscan Villa, English Cottage or European Country Home, Roberta is continually inspired by collaborating closely with her clients to achieve their goals and dreams. Her clients seek her out for her creative flair, blending of periods and exciting use of fabrics and textures.

Roberta is an active member of IFDA (International Furnishings and Design Association) and the WFCP (Window Fashions Certified Professionals Group).