Here are eleven practical tips for designing a study room that encourages creativity, improves concentration, and fosters a life-long love of learning. The post Back to School: Our Top Tips for Creating Study Spaces for Kids appeared first on Laura U Design Collective ..read more

At the intersection of cooking, dining, and socializing, kitchen islands are now the heart of many modern homes. Of course, not all kitchen islands are created equal. A custom-designed island can transform your kitchen into a space that is both beautiful and bespoke—catering to your unique needs and preferences. Which features will optimize your kitchen? Read on for our top seven kitchen island elements and all the reasons why investing in a custom design makes perfect sense! Why Should I Invest in a Custom Kitchen Island? Whether you’re the head chef in your home, the self-proclaimed sommeli ..read more

Whether you’re working with a sprawling backyard or a cozy patio, our outdoor kitchen design tips will help you create the perfect summer entertaining space. From selecting the right layout and incorporating strategic storage to layering your lighting, we’ll guide you through ten steps to optimizing your outdoor kitchen. For additional inspiration, be sure to pore over our portfolio. 10 Outdoor Kitchen Ideas to Optimize Your Summer Entertaining Space #1 Select the Right Layout for Your Outdoor Kitchen Design When designing an outdoor kitchen space, the size and shape of your backyard might di ..read more

Readers of our Journal will already know that the LUDC team recently completed a gorgeous outdoor design project at Balmore. This project included everything from a loggia with its own outdoor kitchen to a putting green to an expansive swimming pool designed with accessibility and aesthetics in mind. From glittering glass to mosaic murals to elegant porcelain, the aesthetic value of pool tiles might be top of mind for you. However, the right pool tiles also enhance safety, comfort, and ease of maintenance. Given the wide variety of materials to choose from, working with a designer can make an ..read more

Working alongside Shelton Builders, our team at LUDC recently completed a comprehensive indoor-outdoor design project for our Balmore clients. The overarching design objective of our Balmore Residence remodel was to craft a multi-generational home capable of hosting expansive family gatherings. Every detail of this residence caters to diverse needs and preferences: ADA-compliant features ensure accessibility for the grandmother, a putt-putt golf course offers outdoor enjoyment for our client, a well-appointed prep kitchen provides a space for the women of the household to bake together during ..read more

Father’s Day is the perfect occasion to show appreciation for the special men in our lives. Whether they’re new dads, outdoorsy adventurers, devoted Formula 1 fans, or the ultimate summer hosts, finding a meaningful gift can make his day unforgettable. Our LUDC Father’s Day Gift Guide lists the team’s curated picks—each tailored to various interests and personalities to ensure every dad feels celebrated. From luxury timepieces and sophisticated cigar humidors to professional landscape consultations and top-notch grilling gear, these gifts will truly elevate his Father’s Day experience. For the ..read more

We are just days away from early summer weather and endless outdoor entertaining, but is your home ready for the season? From rotating artwork to stocking your pool house to optimizing your outdoor living space, here’s everything you need to do before guests gather in the backyard. If your summer will be spent elsewhere—perhaps abroad amidst the cobblestoned streets of Europe, south of the border on tropical beaches, or up north in a mountain cabin—now is the perfect time to schedule remodeling projects for your main house. Read on to learn all about how to prep your home for summer and which ..read more

From the Art Nouveau Palacio de Bellas Artes to the soaring mid-century Torre Latinoamericana skyscraper to the unparalleled Museo Nacional de Antropología, Mexico is home to some of the most iconic buildings in the world. Plus, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) in Mexico City has produced many influential architects and designers who are well-regarded internationally. Some Mexican architects are known for the ways in which they leverage Mexico’s rich natural resources while creating sustainable and environmentally-friendly spaces. Others are respected for their interpretations of ..read more

Mother’s Day is the perfect time to show the special women in our lives how much they mean to us. Whether you’re honoring your own mother, your partner, a cherished family member, or a dear friend, this day is about celebrating their love and the powerful influence they have on your life. If you’re looking for a gift that goes beyond the ordinary, our guide has some fantastic suggestions. Maybe she loves gazing out over the garden, or perhaps entertaining is her passion—we have all the inspiration you need in our 2024 Mother’s Day Gift Guide! LUDC Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2024 There’s always a ..read more

In honor of Earth Day, we’re shining a light on sustainability in the interior design industry. Sustainability is a concern for many Americans, and our clients at Laura U Design Collective are no exception. According to Nathan Miller in an article for Forbes, “homebuyers want — and will pay more for — sustainable features like energy-efficient appliances, windows and the like, alongside features that ensure better air quality.” Whether you are renovating your current home or purchasing a new one, here’s how the interior design industry is adapting to ensure your space is healthier and more eco ..read more