How design updates and technology are enhancing home lighting

How design updates and technology are enhancing home lighting

Let the light shine: How design updates and technology are enhancing home lighting

Original Post from pigeon605.com

The daylight is dwindling, making this fall an ideal time to rethink how you light your home inside and out.

“We offer Whole Home Lighting – the whole package, from new construction or home remodels to helping with individual lighting selections within your home,” said Paula Kruetzfeldt, senior interior designer and lighting specialist at Montgomery’s.

“People can do their whole project at Montgomery’s with complimentary design assistance.”

Whether you’re looking to outfit an entire home with new lighting or just add updates here and there, keep these options in mind:

Exterior lighting

Extend your outdoor living season or enhance your curb appeal with updates to your exterior lighting.

“From my experience, a lot of people put on exterior lights when they build and then forget about them, so it’s once and done,” Kruetzfeldt said. “But there a lot of new fixtures on the market, including those with LED capabilities that have numerous advantages.”

Here’s a big one: No more bugs.

“They don’t generate the same kind of heat, so they don’t attract bugs like older lights do,” Kruetzfeldt explained. “Plus, the newer fixtures are more energy-efficient. You’re likely going to go from using 60 watts in a bulb to only drawing 4 or 5 watts, which adds up to a huge energy savings.”

The outside of your home “is your first impression,” she continued. “We do a lot of exterior consultations and have a vast variety of lighting styles to choose from.”

That includes your outdoor living space. Do you have a three-season room, outdoor kitchen or favorite patio? There’s likely updated lighting for it.

“We see everything from traditional to very modern. Some of our clients own lake homes, and given the unpredictably of our weather and winds, we’re able to help you make selections that will hold up in the elements,” Kruetzfeldt said.

“Remember to think of Montgomery’s for your exterior lighting.”

Living in light

As we approach 2024, lighting inside the home is all about adapting to how you live.

“Lighting in homes today is moving toward switching from task-oriented light when you need it to calming or wind-down light later in the day,” Kruetzfeldt said. “It’s a switchable technology, but it actually involves the color temperature of the lightbulb. So it can go from bright, intense light to a different color in the evening.”

Many lights in your home can be updated in small ways that can make big changes.

“Think about your kitchen pendants, a bath light, maybe a hall light you walk by everyday,” Kruetzfeldt said. “Just changing one or two fixtures gives the home a personality change and can become something you build off of as you’re inspired to do more.”

Areas with focal points for lighting include foyers, kitchens, dining rooms and living rooms.

“There are fun ways to change a fixture’s personality with just changing the lightbulb,” Kruetzfeldt added. “Some are shaped like marshmallows or spheres, crystal cut or lipstick shaped. We can accent-detail even more by switching out a lightbulb.”

Bathroom light tips

Technology can be your friend in a big way with a lighting upgrade in your bathroom.

“Again, LED is leading the way because it doesn’t produce as much heat,” Kruetzfeldt said. “There are several options for bathrooms. You can choose a bathroom bar light, ceiling light, sconces, pendants lighting and LED mirrors that will light up your space.”

Her advice: Layer your light with an LED mirror, sconces on the sides and a light behind you.

“This lighting gives a perfect environment for getting ready, with very little heat produced,” Kruetzfeldt said. “And there’s something for everyone – whether you want a minimalist look that’s functional or something with personality and design flair.”

Chandeliers shine

The coming year is showing a shift for chandeliers – literally.

“Several of the fixtures we’re seeing for 2024 are adjustable,” Kruetzfeldt said. “Shades that can move and twist and turn and angle different. So there’s movement in the fixtures.”

The sleek lines and warm tones that have gained popularity are still sought-after, plus “we’re seeing more mixed metals and leathers – a lot of detail, a lot of personality,” she continued.

Think two- or three-toned colors with sleek detail.

“Chandeliers often become a building block for a room, and they can really be pieces of art or a focal point in a design setting,” Kruetzfeldt said.

“It’s an easy way to update a room too, especially if you already have electrical. We’re also seeing moves away from bare lightbulb industrial and clear glass to a softened look with milky glass or alabaster glass, again because LED light doesn’t produce the heat, allowing us to use these appealing materials again. With the evolving technology in lighting, I foresee a lot of remodeling because people will want to incorporate these aspects into their home.”

Lamps make a statement

Lamp lighting is another way to bring a statement to a room. These smaller purchases can pack a design punch.

“We’re seeing a lot of sculptural lighting, very unique and architectural, with strong lines, marbles and mixed metals,” Kruetzfeldt said. “These are smaller purchases, and you often can move them from room to room and create more design excitement.”

Montgomery’s offers a large selection of lamps with styles for every taste, she added.

“You’ll see everything from whimsical to organic, simple and ornate. We also have minimalist and smart lighting that are very popular as well,” Kruetzfeldt said.

Beyond the showroom

While a visit to a Montgomery’s showroom is a great place to start – or get inspired – with a look at lighting, the options go beyond what you’ll see in the store, and designers are there to help you each step of the process for free.

“Our electronic catalog is an exceptional tool,” Kruetzfeldt said. “It’s very detailed. We can zoom in so you can see the finishes so clearly that it’s almost like you’re touching it. Additionally, we are able to filter by size, finish, price point, making it an easy shopping experience, saving the customer time and money.”

Within the store, various lighting styles are shown in room settings, “so you can stand back and see the scale and details and not be overpowered by having all the lighting displayed in one area,” she continued.

“You are able to better imagine it in your space. Just as importantly, we offer to consult within your home to ensure your selections are going to fit. You’re not making costly mistakes by choosing a fixture that’s too large or small for your area.”

Montgomery’s designers will sit down with your blueprint and go room by room to help choose lighting for a newly built home and even do a walk-through on an existing home.

“We can help produce a complete package. No detail is overlooked, down to making sure you have the right light outputs and bulbs in your fixtures,” Kruetzfeldt said. “Our job is to make sure our clients feel educated and comfortable. We ensure every lighting decision is a special reflection of our clients’ personal style.”

Ready to add a little light to your living space? Schedule an appointment with a Montgomery’s designer.

Get Custom Furnishings in time for the Holidays

Get Custom Furnishings in time for the Holidays

Custom furnishings in time for the holidays? It’s possible with this approach

Original Post from pigeon605.com

Let’s say you’re looking for a new sofa.

A green sofa.

When you walk into the Montgomery’s showroom, you’ll likely see a sea of sofas.

But what you won’t necessarily know is that nearly all could be green.

“Actually, most of the sofas you see on the floor are available in green,” design consultant Kayla Hathaway said. “We’d be happy to pull out some fabric samples and show you.”

At Montgomery’s, customization is incredibly common, and an expert design team is waiting to help you make it happen.

“Nearly any of our furniture can be customized,” senior interior designer Emily Meyer said. “And a lot of people don’t realize all we do. We quite literally can come to your house and then help you customize everything from flooring to drapes, curtains to bedding and, of course, furniture.”

Looking for a 19-foot dining table?

“We have the resources to do that,” Meyer said.

“We can also take old tables and have new granite or stone tops made for them, or side boards. You don’t have to give up a favorite piece just because it’s aging or you’d like it to have an updated look.”

Updating or designing a bedroom?

“There’s an incredible variety of pieces,” Meyer said. “Many of our vendors might have 10 nightstands to choose from, or you can pick the wood, the color, the knobs.”

Custom touches even extend to the finishing touches of a room.

“We can customize rugs, drapery, pillows, essentially anything you can think of,” Hathaway said.

“We really take a customer-first approach. We want your whole home to be beautiful, whether you’re shopping with us for a single lamp or a whole home renovation.”

Even better: Montgomery’s design services are complimentary.

“Don’t be afraid to talk to us,” Meyer said. “We know the questions to ask, and as we’re getting to know each other, we’ll figure out more what the customer wants. A lot of times, the customer knows what they don’t like. They might not know what they like, but people tend to know what they don’t, so then we can begin eliminating options.”

Working with a designer also helps you learn what’s possible in your home, Hathaway added. And at Montgomery’s, that often means a lot of options.

“We have all the tools we need to build and create your custom project,” she said. “We can walk through what is offered for each brand. For instance, with one fabric vendor, you can only change the color of the fabric. With another, you can change the depth, height, seat cushion construction and more.”

“We have more and more vendors utilizing those tools, so it’s very helpful because a lot of people have trouble visualizing how pieces or fabrics will look,” Meyer said.

And unlike recent years, when longer-than-average wait times made some hesitate on customization, things are getting back to normal, the designers said.

“Every brand is different, but we’re right at one to four months for most custom pieces,” Meyer said. “Before, it was generally one to two months, so things are definitely normalizing.”

Special offer

Start planning now for holiday gatherings and guests. During Montgomery’s Labor Day sale, choose from a selection of sale-priced custom-order beds, sofas, sectionals and dining room tables that you can have in your home in time for Thanksgiving when you order by September 11, 2023.

Stop into any Montgomery’s showroom to get started.

Sioux Falls Showroom

Meet The Sioux Falls Design Team

1725 W 41st St
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
605-332-4400

We are currently closed.
We open again at 9am.

Madison Showroom

Meet The Madison Design Team

747 S Washington Ave
Madison, SD 57042
605-256-4000

We are currently closed.
We open again at 9am.

Watertown Showroom

Meet The Watertown Design Team

1000 9th Ave SE
Watertown, SD 57201
605-886-5000

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We open again at 9am.

Aberdeen Showroom

Meet The Aberdeen Design Team

3502 7th Ave SE
Aberdeen, SD 57401
605-262-4700

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We open again at 9am.
Home design simplified: How this free, complete service brings visions to life

Home design simplified: How this free, complete service brings visions to life

Home design simplified: How this free, complete service brings visions to life

Original Post from pigeon605.com

She walked into the Sioux Falls Montgomery’s store like most customers.

“I just went to browse the showroom floor,” homeowner Miranda Nolte said. “I told them I was looking for furniture for an entire new house, and that’s when I learned about their free design service. I’d shopped there before for a chair or something, but never to this capacity, and I didn’t know about the service.”

When she learned the Montgomery’s design experts literally could help her step by step, from floor to ceiling, with her custom home build, it was like a weight lifted.

“It was huge. I didn’t even know where to go or where to start,” she said. “I just knew what I liked.”

Montgomery’s designer Anastasia Duin and flooring manager Olivia Niggeling took it from there.

“It was amazing. We totally hit it off,” Nolte said. “Olivia went and sourced all my tile and laid it out and did all the leg work and I was able to pick from selections. Anastasia was great with the décor and furniture and fabrics.”

As a single mom and busy insurance industry leader, “my running around time is precious,” she added. “And they were able to take that all off my plate. I had no idea how easy and hands-on this was and how curated they make it to your specific design. I came in and they had all the furniture laid out, fabric samples, paint colors. It was a one-stop shop.”

Today, she goes home to the “mountain modern” home she always envisioned, something that draws on her love for the Black Hills with lots of warmth and without an overly rustic feel.

“The three of us worked awesome together, and it has to all go cohesively, so to have both people in the same place – my flooring and tile person and my furniture person – rather than trying to pull it together myself was exactly what I needed.”

 

Because Montgomery’s name is synonymous with fine home furnishings, many consumers looking to remodel or build don’t fully realize the free interior design services Montgomery’s offers, or the specialized services available to them through The Floor Store at Montgomery’s, where tile, backsplash, countertops, and fixtures are part of the Whole Home package. This suite of complementary services is offered at each of Montgomery’s four locations.

“We do full interior design services, and it’s not what people necessarily associate with us,” Niggeling said. “They don’t realize we can help select everything, source materials even if we don’t have samples in the store, and find super specific things like tile or other flooring that fit their budget and complement their design.”

In Nolte’s case, the Montgomery’s team helped problem-solve continually. Niggeling helped sourced a large tile product that create the look Nolte was hoping for with her fireplace, for instance.

“It’s a great large-format tile, and we’re doing a lot of that lately because it’s very budget-friendly and yet you get the grand look of a big marble fireplace,” Niggeling said.

On the furniture side, Nolte loved a white sofa – but was a bit wary with twin three-year-olds.

“The protection program Montgomery’s sells is so amazing,” Nolte said. “I wanted white, but I have little kids, and once I learned about the benefit with the protection program I was able to get what I wanted because I felt confidence with that extra piece in place.”

For builders, Montgomery’s works with contractors or uses its own installers to help create welcoming, neutral spec homes.

“For contractors, it’s a big load off their plate,” Niggeling said. “We general install at least one portion – tile, carpet, hard surfaces – if not all of it. A lot of the spec homes we do feel custom because everything is selected with a purpose. It’s not just for the masses. It’s something that’s specifically chosen to complement the home’s design.”

And with custom home owners, “we’re making sure both the customer and the contractor is happy and taking the burden off everyone of selecting and searching and finding products,” she continued.

Bathrooms are a great example, she said.

“Those seem to be a struggle for people. Only certain tile or natural stone can go in places with water, so we help navigate all that and show them options they can choose,” she said. “We don’t want them to fall in love with a tile that doesn’t work in a shower.”

The overriding goal is “to makes sure the first decision complements the last decision,” Niggeling said. “We’re another sounding board, we’re communicating throughout and we’re sharing back and forth with different ideas and solutions for their vision.”

For Nolte, the process was “nothing but wonderful the whole way through,” she said. “They made the experience the best and brought all my ideas to life.”

Headed to the Parade of Homes? Here’s what to look for.

Headed to the Parade of Homes? Here’s what to look for.

Headed to the Parade of Homes? Here’s what to look for.

Original Post from pigeon605.com

When you step inside a newly built Parade of Homes house, don’t overlook the details.

That’s where the work of Montgomery’s designers shines. You’ll find their signature approach from top to bottom and throughout multiple homes on this year’s Spring Parade of Homes, which runs May 13-14 and May 20-21 and is hosted by the Home Builders Association of the Sioux Empire.

“Most of the time, we’ve worked on many homes on the Parade event, and this is no exception,” designer Paula Kruetzfeldt said. “Often it begins as working with a builder on a spec home that then progresses to having the house shown on the parade.”

Creation Builders

When a builder builds a home “on spec,” it means there is no immediate buyer. So, Montgomery’s designers are integral in making design selections that are appealing to a wide range of owners.

“When we’re selecting finishes, we’re keeping things neutral with little pops of color, so if by chance the home owner prefers something different it’s easy to switch out,” Kruetzfeldt said. “We keep the home neutral but jazz it up with materials, metals or lighting for more of a wow factor.”

1J Homes

Montgomery’s designers help select everything from flooring to wall coverings, lighting and kitchen finishes.

“We give our contractors the absolute best products possible, while fitting within what their budget allows,” flooring manager Olivia Niggeling said.

1J Homes

“All the products in these homes are extremely high-performing but meet the budget of a home owner who would be shopping within that price point.”

In a Parade of Homes house, visitors are going to see the latest and most current materials on the market.

1J Homes

“We’re continually going to trade shows and bringing back new products to builders before they even get to the store at times, so they will be showing the newest products in their homes,” Kruetzfeldt said.

What does that look like this year? Niggeling is excited for visitors to see the latest in luxury vinyl plank flooring, “which gives a really updated, enhanced look while still having the durability and performance that owners need and expect,” she said.

1J Homes

“We’ll be showing some natural bevel products that are new to the market. I also suggest owners ask about materials. Some luxury vinyl can look like real wood or ceramic, so it’s important to understand what you’re seeing and what your expectations for the product could be.”

Kruetzfeldt recently returned from a lighting market and found “white is really trending in fixtures right now,” she said. “There’s a lot of bigger, bold and gold fixtures. And now because of LED light bulbs and the fact they don’t get hot, we’re seeing a lot of alabaster glass coming back and a lot of milky white. Mixed with gold it’s very classy looking, almost like turning light fixtures into beautiful art.”

Creation Builders

Many Parade visitors are looking to make a statement in their home, “so it’s fun to show how lighting can do that,” she said.

In this Parade home by Creation Builders, the Montgomery’s designers assisted with everything from paint colors to the fireplace surround, the tile back splash, lighting, mirrors and carpet. Plus, they staged the entire home with furniture and accessories.

Creation Builders

“We actually started with a new stain color, which is a unique honey grey color, and we built off of that, paired with some black and white to keep it classic, and had that warm wood color bring it all together,” Kruetzfeldt said.

“Many people don’t realize we work with hardware too, for kitchen cabinets, and we can coordinate that with light fixtures and other design elements in the house. So it really can be almost a complete stop for contractors or home owners to design the entire house. And when we stage with furniture and accessories for the Parade, it’s not uncommon for owners to ultimately go with many of those selections permanently.”

For a look at all four homes Montgomery’s supported on this year’s Parade, click here.

Expert advice

If you’re heading to the Spring Parade of Homes, the Montgomery’s designers have plenty of tips.

Touch and feel

The Parade is your chance to go beyond carpet samples and tiny pieces of tile, so make the most of it.

“Feel it, touch it, stand on it, all the things you can’t get from small samples,” Niggeling said. “Walk on the carpet, on the tile, on the laminate vinyl plank. You might have it in your head what you think something is like, but seeing it in application is a whole different ballgame.”

Ask away

Often, a Montgomery’s designer will be in the Parade home while you browse.

“We love when you ask questions about the performance of the product as it helps us get an idea for your style,” Kruetzfeldt said.

“There’s a lot of beautiful things to look at, and we can make sure we find something that’s within your budget. If we know what you like, you often can either buy that identical item or we can find a budget-friendly alternative.”

Don’t be afraid to dig into the details either, Niggeling added.

“Ask about things like the carpet or flooring’s wearability and traffic, especially if that’s key in your household,” she said. “Ask what type of carpet it is so you’re learning what you like.”

See a lot

With more than 60 homes on this year’s parade, there are options throughout the Sioux Falls area and in all budgets. But ideas can come from any home, so the designers recommend stopping in several.

“We encourage you to see as many Parade homes as you can,” Kruetzfeldt said. “You’ll leave with a better idea of what you like and don’t like, because you’ve actually seen the products.”

To connect with a Montgomery’s designer for your own home design needs, stop in any Montgomery’s store.

A better night’s sleep awaits with this design and mattress advice

A better night’s sleep awaits with this design and mattress advice

A better night’s sleep awaits with this design and mattress advice.

Original Post from pigeon605.com

What a difference losing even just one hour of sleep can make.

If you find yourself dragging a bit after our recent shift to daylight saving time, you can relate.

Now multiply that out by hours, days, weeks, even months.

It becomes apparent how small changes definitely can impact how well you rest and consequently all your waking hours.

“I share that a lot,” said Emily Meyer, a senior interior designer at Montgomery’s. “I’ve dealt with medical issues nearly my entire life, and changes to your bedroom – and especially your bed itself – can make a huge difference.”

This week appropriately is National Sleep Awareness Week, making it the ideal time to take stock of your own sleeping situation and make adjustments.

“One in three adults don’t get enough sleep,” said Clint Richards, mattress manager at Montgomery’s.

“And if you’re not getting a restful seven or eight hours, it puts you at risk for everything from cardiovascular problems to drowsiness that can lead to all kinds of accidents or other issues. Sleep is the time when your body and brain repair themselves, and if you’re tossing and turning, you don’t get that deep, restful sleep.”

The sleep experts at Montgomery’s are ready to help, whether it’s assisting you in finding a perfect mattress or designing the space where you sleep.

They offered these tips to help put you on course to better overnights ahead.

Evaluate your space

Step back and take stock of your bedroom.

First, how does it feel when you sleep?

“The temperature in your bedroom should be colder than you’re used to the rest of the time in your house,” Meyer said. “That doesn’t have a lot to do with design, but it does have a lot to do with how you’ll sleep at night.”

Got that set? Now think calming colors.

“You want this to be a calm and peaceful space,” Meyer said. “Color matters here. No reds, which can bring unwanted energy. Think light blues, grays, blushes.”

Sound a bit boring? There’s a solution for that.

“Texture,” Meyer said. “If you keep everything neutral tones, it can get boring, but in a bedroom, that’s important. So things like big, fluffy pillows and a tweed comforter or velvet mixed in can keep the room interesting and give a designer touch and look.”

Montgomery’s custom approach extends to bedroom furnishings too.

“With our workroom and seamstresses here in Sioux Falls, we have a huge selection of fabrics, and our designers can help customers with customized bedding, draperies and pillows,” Meyer said. “When a person can’t find just what they want, we can make it for them.”

Play attention to the lighting in your bedroom too.

“Use multiple lights – so you can have an overhead light, but bring in table lamps too so you can have low, more calming light,” Meyer said. “And with window treatments, find ways to layer in light. You might use light-filtering blinds and be able to pull curtains for when you want to sleep in.”

Montgomery’s Mattress 1st makes perfect matches

Each Montgomery’s store includes a Mattress 1st, where you’ll find the latest in sleep technology and a team of experts to guide you to your ideal mattress.

“We carry multiple styles that are going to fit what you’re looking for in a mattress as well as your budget,” Richards said.

Customers begin by trying out various numbered mattresses to determine which suits their style.

“We walk you through it and help figure out your ideal bed and then show you options from there,” Richards said. “It can be overwhelming to shop for a mattress, and this really helps make it a straightforward decision.”

For those who appreciate the cooling effect of a specially designed mattress and pillows, he suggests the Arctic mattress, which “is the ultimate cooling mattress on the market,” Richards said.

“There’s a lot of new technology in mattresses. One from Simmons is using a plant-based cooling material, and another uses recycled plastic in the fabric, so there’s a good eco story as well as comfort and technology.”

He also suggests considering an adjustable bed – no matter what your age.

“Even if you only use it when you’re sick or your back is hurting, it’s a sturdy base that makes your bed feel more solid,” he said.

“We know that a very high percent of kids with ADHD, for instance, have sleeping problems at night. This can help keep the head elevated correctly, especially if there are breathing issues.”

Meyer has seen that impact firsthand.

“Adjustable bases can help with blood circulation, relieve stress from the lower back, open up the airway for breathing, alleviate pressure on your bladder and help with hip pain,” she said. “Alleviating issues such as these will help you sleep better.”

Purchasing a mattress at Montgomery’s is a complete no-pressure situation. Thanks to Montgomery’s Perfect Sleep Promise on a mattress purchase over $999, “at a minimum there’s a 120-night guarantee, so a customer can sleep on the mattress and still do an exchange if needed,” Richards said.

Headed to the Home Show, Keep these tips in mind

Headed to the Home Show, Keep these tips in mind

Headed to the Home Show? Keep these tips in mind.

Original Post from pigeon605.com

What comes before spring? Home show season.

In the coming weeks, home shows will take place across eastern South Dakota, including the massive Sioux Empire Home Show.

But if you’ve ever navigated the endless rows of booths, vendors and options, you know it can become a little overwhelming.

“The idea is to get the dream out of your head and into your home,” said Carly Ellsworth of Montgomery’s, who oversees outside design projects such as home shows.

“And it can be overwhelming, but there is so much available for help. That’s why, when you’re a Montgomery’s customer, we offer the Whole Home Experience to help you manage the project without any additional cost. When we know what you’re looking for, we can save you time and money by directing you where to go and how to shop.”

Ellsworth strives to make stopping by the Montgomery’s booth at a home show just like a miniature representation of the store itself.

“We change our booth each year, and we design it for the community whose show we’re participating in,” she said. “It’s 100 percent consumer-driven, so we’re looking at what consumers are looking for when they’re coming into the store, what the trends are and what you might not know as much about that we think should be elevated.”

The booth also is staffed with Montgomery’s designers ready to help guide you through your project or answer questions.

“We have a whole team of designers ready to help with the project from start to finish,” said designer Paula Kruetzfeldt.

“We become your project management helper, and that relationship can start in our booth, or you can come to the store anytime. And if you come to the store and connect with a designer before the Home Show, we can even help guide you during the show to make sure you see everything that interests you.”

Ready to prep for your Home Show experience? The Montgomery’s experts shared their advice.

First thing to consider: Your budget

“Budget is a big factor and determine that first,” said Corey McLaughlin, Montgomery’s senior manager for floor coverings.

He knows – after spending years as a contractor running building projects.

“If you’re looking at things that aren’t in your budget, you’ll struggle, and it can feel defeating. If we start with budget, we can ensure it’s a positive experience.”

Hone in on your ‘why’

We’ve all got one – the big reason why we’re hoping to refresh our space.

“One way to keep the process from becoming overwhelming is to focus on what’s important,” Kruetzfeldt said.

“That’s how we start narrowing down choices. So what’s important? Is it children, pets, color? What’s the key motivator? Most people don’t do this every day, and there are so many options. We want to make this a fun experience so that they’re enjoying investing in their home and making good choices.”

The need to engage

The Montgomery’s experts agree: The biggest mistake visitors to home shows make is seeing and not speaking.

“They browse but don’t engage,” Ellsworth said. “I can’t tell you how important it is to ask the right questions. Talk about your project. Show a picture. Ask for ideas. That’s what gives us life as designers and how our brains work.”

And, once you do, you’ll realize all the expertise waiting for you.

“For instance, if a homeowner is interested in a kitchen or bathroom project, we can suggest plumbing fixtures and faucets, appliances and cabinetry and help decide what type of sink could go in there,” Kruetzfeldt said.

“We can coordinate those things without actually supplying them, and over the years we’ve developed such valuable relationships that we can introduce you to the companies to best meet your needs. Once clients stop and talk about things, their eyes light up because they begin to realize all their options.”

Discussing flooring? Ask the right questions

Many homeowners come to a home show curious about ways to refresh their flooring.

“But anyone can sell flooring by how it looks great or because you like the color, but it may not work with your home or cabinets or counters or trim,” McLaughlin said.

“Ask if there are other items in your home affected by putting that flooring in your house.”

Curious about the trends? Here’s a peek

Not to spoil all the reveals of the Home Show, but if you’re hoping your home project will leave your space up-to-the-minute current, think warming up.

“We’re still going with an earthy, organic color scheme, but there’s increasingly a blend of warm and cool tones,” Ellsworth said. “I’m not saying gray is out, but it’s definitely shifted to warmer grays and taupes. Maybe an icy-cold blue but paired with camel. So we’re going to show how to mix both.”

Tech isn’t going anywhere, either.

“We’re seeing a big shift, from window treatments coordinating with smartphones and thermostats and appliances,” Ellsworth said. “As designers, it’s important for us to stay cutting edge, so just like our customers, this is a great opportunity for us to reconnect with people we know and see what they have to offer.”

Another tip: Ask for references

With hundreds of vendors, it can be hard to hone in on who is a match for your project, but visuals can help show if they’re a fit.

“As you talk with businesses, ask for pictures or to see examples of their work,” McLaughlin said. “We all have a different eye for quality, so what meets one person’s expectations might not for someone else. Ask them to show you their end result.”

And finally, ask about what you don’t know

A key question to ask while considering a home project is the one you might not know to ask.

“After asking a company to explain the details of what they offer, say to them: ‘What am I forgetting?’” McLaughlin said.

“That sparks the salesperson to tell you about the plumber or the electrician or the other costs and extras that might be needed. The idea is to have that conversation up front, so the road map is laid out, and you can make a value decision.”

Or, if you’d rather not be the one who has to ask what more it takes to get a project done, Montgomery’s Whole Home Experience will make sure it’s all covered for you.

“We’ll help you make the first decision go with the very last decision and everything in between,” Kruetzfeldt said.

Stop by the Montgomery’s booth at the following upcoming home shows:

  • Sioux Falls: Sioux Empire Home Show, Feb. 24-26, Sioux Falls Convention Center.
  • Aberdeen: Aberdeen Home & Garden Show, March 3-5, Brown County Fairgrounds.
  • Watertown: Watertown Home Show, March 4-5, Codington County Extension Complex.
Interior designers offer expert advice for holiday home design, decorating

Interior designers offer expert advice for holiday home design, decorating

Interior designers offer expert advice for holiday home design, decorating

Original Post from pigeon605.com

Has “decking the halls” left you feeling in need of a little holiday home updating?

There are plenty of ways to update your space for the season – and beyond – with a little help from the experts.

“For a while, everyone gravitated to gray and white, and now we’re seeing trends shift to more natural colors,” said Lauren Peterson, a design consultant at Montgomery’s in Madison.

“We’re seeing greens and rusts coming back, and that also can be very timely if you’re looking for an update for the holidays.”

Whether you’re preparing to entertain at home, looking to add a little sparkle for your own enjoyment or just trying to find the best place to place your Christmas tree, the Montgomery’s team is waiting for personalized advice.

But in the meantime, we asked them to weigh in on easy adjustments you can make to create a “home for the holidays” you’ll love.

The dining experience

The holiday season kicks off with the mother of all meals: Thanksgiving. So whether you’re hosting this Thursday or preparing for another holiday dining event, assessing your dining space can make a big difference.

“We have a lot of dining furniture available right now,” Peterson said. “You can customize it to your specific wood species, two-tone it like using a white and a gray or a wood and black, or consider something like a trestle table we offer that has three butterfly leaves in it. It can seat about six when closed but open up to double in size.”

Make sure your lighting is appropriate for the space, she added.

“A lot of times, people don’t think about updating the lighting in their dining space, but it can really transform the room,” Peterson said. “We have chandeliers, sconces and more available to take today or order.”

And finally, don’t forget about the centerpieces for your dining table.

“You don’t want those too high so they’re blocking guests or conversation,” Peterson said. “For instance, we have a nice wooden bowl in multiple sizes, and you can decorate it with pumpkins or greens or florals and adjust depending on the occasion.”

Make the space functional and interactive, added Alex Reff, a design consultant at Montgomery’s in Aberdeen.

“Have the table dressed well and stocked with hors d’oeuvres as an option before the big meal,” he suggested. “When in doubt, symmetry is a safe and effective route — something as simple as a small bouquet with a couple flaked candlesticks on either side and a few woven or real mini pumpkins with fun colors.”

Want to get away from traditional reds, oranges and yellows?

“Try using fun pinks and vibrant greens, a nice floral bouquet accented with pomegranates, some greens and candlesticks to keep it simple.”

Easy home updates

Are you looking ahead to the holiday season and less than excited to welcome guests into your space? Some simple updates or redesigns might be in order.

“When I do space planning for clients, I always plan for how the space is used daily and how it is used for entertaining,” said Kayla Hathaway, a design consultant at Montgomery’s in Sioux Falls.

“Some ideas are as simple as ordering a matching dining bench in addition to your chairs at a dining table. For daily use, place the bench inside an entryway or at the end of a bed. When the holidays roll around, use the bench for additional seating at the expanded table. It will match and look finished and intentional. I also recommend using additional dining chairs in a home office or vanity.”

If you’ve not stopped in a showroom lately, you might be surprised at all the options that exist.

“There are so many innovative pieces of furniture being created,” Reff said. “One thing I love is a self-storage table. Some will store three 18-inch leaves in them! That gives a person hosting for the holidays less headaches when it comes to eat.”

Need a little extra seating in your living space? The design consultants agree: Go with poufs.

“They’re an especially great option for children and young adults,” Reff added.

They double as accents or decorative pieces, Peterson said. And ottomans “can store things year-round,” she continued. “You can use it as a coffee table, a foot rest or a bench.”

Easy additions such as new lamps, rugs, throws or pillows “also can really transform a space,” she continued.

“Sometimes, clients will come in with photos of their rooms on a phone, and we can look at that or do a house call and help you find some pieces that are available today and can make an immediate impact on a room.”

The holiday decor

Now that you’re loving the furniture, it’s time to truly deck the halls.

“I always say don’t overdo it,” Peterson said. “Mix in accessories you have with holiday accents. Something like a glass bowl can be very nice. You can put ornaments in it, but you also can put florals in it, so there’s year-round use.”

Montgomery’s has a wide selection of winter florals available now.

“You can do some whites and reds for Christmas and maybe add something glittery in silver or some white sticks that carry you into winter,” Peterson said. “We also have beads in the store on a long string that can be used in centerpieces, to decorate a tree or to wrap around a lamp to bring some fun to the base. They go for all seasons and are becoming popular.”

And if you’re stumped with how best to arrange your Christmas tree in a room, you don’t have to go it alone.

“Having a second set of eyes on your space can give you a fresh idea on how to utilize your space more efficiently. It’s quite common that I plan out where a Christmas tree will fit best in a client’s living room and how to best rotate furniture for the holidays,” Hathaway said.

“My goal for my clients is to have them utilize and enjoy their space to its full potential, whether it is just a night at home alone or a house full of people entertaining for the holidays.”

You also can’t go wrong keeping your decor simple, Reff said.

“We’re seeing classic looks from the past with a botanical or cottagecore-inspired decor, with vintage-inspired accessories and a lot of natural elements,” he said. “I have also seen a big emphasis on elegant barware and sophisticated dinnerware.”

The Whole Home Experience

The Whole Home Experience

Complimentary home design sets Montgomery’s Whole Home Experience apart

Original Post from pigeon605.com

Maybe you think you can’t afford a professional interior designer for your home or apartment.

Or you figure designers are mostly out to sell you furnishings and finishes.

You might find the whole idea of working with a designer a little intimidating.

Those perceptions of design and designers quickly will be turned upside down as soon as you discover the Montgomery’s Whole Home Experience.

“Sometimes, people think we’re only a furniture store,” said Carly Ellsworth, manager of outside design.

“And once they begin to work with us, they’re absolutely surprised and excited by how much we’re able to help them for free simply because they’re a Montgomery’s customer.”

Established in 1888, Montgomery’s is a fifth-generation family-owned business with locations in Sioux Falls, Madison, Watertown and Aberdeen.

Here, the design services are as affordable as they could be – because they’re complimentary – and they encompasses everything from top to bottom in the home, from furniture to flooring, window treatments to lighting and even your mattress.

The designers you’ll work with are experts in their field who love what they do. And they will work with you on everything from choosing a piece of furniture to completely building or renovating a home.

“I was drawn to Montgomery’s as an independent designer doing my thing all over town,” said interior designer Paula Kruetzfeldt, who has been with the business nearly four years. “I knew Montgomery’s had everything I needed to offer my clients, so I decided this would be the right fit.”

She considers herself more of an interior project manager, which is a good way of describing her role in delivering the Whole Home Experience.

“Many people tell us they thought designers were only for people who have million-dollar houses,” she said. “Instead, our services are designed for everyone. And it becomes a much different relationship with people than just selling them furniture.”

Here’s what to know about making the most of your own Montgomery’s Whole Home Experience.

Where to start

Thinking of building, renovating or just making some minor but effective updates to your living space?

You can stop in any Montgomery’s store – the Sioux Falls location is at 1725 W. 41st St. – and go to the welcome desk to be connected with a designer.

“It can be intimidating when you walk in the store,” Ellsworth said. “It’s beautiful, but you might assume it won’t fit your budget, which is rarely the case. Our team is very approachable and very skilled at finding pieces to match individual tastes and budgets.”

Want to begin the relationship online? Click here to learn more about the team of designers and to reach out to anyone you’d like to get to know.

“A lot of our designers are very versatile in terms of what they design,” Ellsworth said. “And as designers, we collaborate. We love what we do so much we’re constantly sharing ideas and feedback with each other, so you really get the expertise of our entire team. There are many relationships behind the scenes that clients don’t see that make us effective at what we do.”

Then, the designer will begin getting to know you, your needs, your budget, what you’re hoping to achieve with your home project and your overall vision.

“We need to know your comfort level and your end game,” Kruetzfeldt said. “We need to understand where they’re at in the process, so we can begin to work with them each step of the way. I typically will take people through the store and let them show me what they like, what they feel comfortable with. We talk about the budget and ensure we’re all on the same page.”

Services offered

From there, the relationship can become as detailed as the customer desires. Montgomery’s designers also enjoy visiting in your home to learn more about your lifestyle and tastes.

“An even if you live in an apartment, we’ll come out and help you design your space and make it true to who you are,” Ellsworth said. “Our home is such a reflection of our identity, especially today as we’re spending more time there, be it for work or after work; it’s crucial that it feels like you.”

The Whole Home Experience also encompasses much more than furniture. Complimentary design services include every aspect of a room:  flooring, lighting, wall coverings, window treatments, custom upholstered furniture or even custom pieces made right in the Montgomery’s workroom and the Mattress 1st store connected to the showroom.

“It’s a huge differentiator,” Kruetzfeldt said. “It’s all included. Every piece of flooring or fabric, every light fixture we can help select. For people who have never built or remodeled, it can be hard to remember what they picked out along the way. So we help keep the selections consistent, keep it on track, and we manage it so they don’t feel overwhelmed.”

Designers also have access to space planning software, design studios and thousands of fabric samples, flooring and hard surface options.

“We can access literally hundreds of vendors and brands for every budget, and Montgomery’s has been in business so long our vendors love Montgomery’s and want to work with us so our clients are happy,” Kruetzfeldt said.

The same service also is available to contractors, she added.

“A lot of newer contractors don’t realize that we do flooring and windows treatments and wall coverings and counters and that it can all be a one-stop shop,” Kruetzfeldt said. “They can call one designer, and the needs are taken care of from start to finish.”

Finished products

When the Whole Home Experience comes together, clients love the finished product.

This Parade of Homes house for a family in Harrisburg utilized the Whole Home Experience literally from the ground up.

“We used their floor plans and the owner’s Pinterest boards and built off that,” said Ellsworth, who designed for the family. “They have four kids, so we wanted to make sure everything would work for their lifestyle.”

At the same time, “this was their forever house,” she continued. “So they want it to be passed on to their grandchildren in 100 years, and they were very intentional about lighting, tile, wallpaper and figuring out what brought them joy in their space.”

Both are professionals with busy schedules, trying to build a house while parenting four kids, so the design services were a big time-saver, she said.

“It got to the point where I could show them two or three selections, and they loved everything and just asked me to choose what coordinated best with the vision,” she said.

“They wanted functionality and timeless quality, but they are still a family on a budget, and I think this intentional design combined with really getting to know them definitely achieved that.”

With this Parade of Homes house in Hartford, also designed by Ellsworth, she worked with client Callies Homes on all the design selections.

“They are very much a family-owned business like Montgomery’s with a lot of pride in ownership,” she said. “And they really stand out for their quality craftsmanship, so I needed to make sure the flooring, tile, lighting and furniture complemented the home they had built.”

It was built as a spec home, so without knowing the final owner, Ellsworth set out to honor the craftsmanship and vision of the builder.

“They wanted modern craftsman, which is unique, so things like the tile and backsplash were intentional to go with the darker woods that were used,” she said.

“But I also had to show how such a beautiful house could function for a family that needed six bedrooms. The flow and floor plan made it easy to find furniture that gave a formal but inviting main level and a family-friendly casual space downstairs.”

Ready to partner?

If you’re ready to take advantage of Montgomery’s Whole Home Experience, just stop in the store anytime or click here to get started.

Tips for Creating the Perfect Faux Floral Arrangement

Tips for Creating the Perfect Faux Floral Arrangement

Tips for Creating the Perfect Faux Floral Arrangement

March 20, 2022
Post by Breana McHugh

Floral Room Sioux Falls Showroom

Spring is officially here! Time to trade out those evergreens and white eucalyptuses and welcome the new season into your home. By mixing floral into your Spring decorating, you can breathe new life into your space, adding freshness, texture, and color. Now the task remains to create an arrangement you love! Our Sioux Falls designer, Kayla, specializing in floral design, gave us great insight into accomplishing this. We are excited to share her process for crafting a realistic, eye-catching faux floral arrangement. 

1. Decorate with Floral After Your Space is Designed
Consider floral arrangements as the finishing touch to complement design elements already in place. “The purpose is to bring in all the colors you have already worked with, like fabrics from the sofa and window treatments,” says Kayla. It is important to repeat those hues and keep with the overall scheme.

2. Determine the Aesthetic
With the color palette chosen, consider other factors contributing to the visual. First, where will the arrangement be placed? A lot of this depends on the desired size of the arrangement and the statement you want it to make. For instance, an extravagant arrangement is best as a centerpiece for a dining table, whereas a less complex arrangement works on a coffee or side table. When it comes to height, taller arrangements are more fitting for an end table, with shorter arrangements best suited for coffee tables. The selection of the vase or bowl also plays a role; the wider the vessel, the more spread your arrangement will have. 

3. Make Everything Intentional 
When designing with floral, every decision should be deliberate. In the arrangement pictured, Kayla begins with the largest flower off-centered. This gives her the perfect starting point, allowing her to build around it. It is key that you work with odd numbers, filling in space with flowers in batches of three, or three types of greenery, to balance out the arrangement. Think about the other floral stems, foliage, and accents you want to include. What will they add to the piece? In Kayla’s arrangement, she incorporates twig balls with hints of white to mix in some neutral tones. She also adds vines as a finishing touch to provide height and visual interest. 

Kayla with floral arrangement
Start Arrangement Large floral pick
Working on the faux floral arrangement
Kayla working on faux floral arrangement

4. Strive for Realism
We can all agree we want our faux floral to resemble fresh flowers as much as possible. Several tips can help accomplish this. According to Kayla, “Shaping the flowers and petals by giving them a direction will create a natural feel.” Bending stems over the side of the vase or bowl will provide an asymmetrical look, typical of real flowers. Combining natural greenery is a convincing way to make the piece seem more realistic. Finally, turning the arrangement and looking at it from every angle will help you know what is missing and ensure you fill in any bare spots.

Visit us at any Montgomery’s location to purchase florals for your next DIY project. You may also work with a designer who will happily create an arrangement for you!  

Spruce Up Your Home In Time For The Holidays

Spruce Up Your Home In Time For The Holidays

Spruce Up Your Home In Time For The Holidays!

November 6, 2020
Post by Emily Connolly

Okay, okay. I KNOW we are all tired of 2020. It’s been a long year, and it seems like more than 11 months have passed. So, now that people are spending time with family and small groups of friends at home, it’s the perfect time to give your space an update. Here are some tips for creating a new, comfy feel to your home.

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Paint your front door! Nothing sets the tone for your home like a freshly painted or stained door. Always keep your home’s style in mind when picking the picture-perfect color. Modern Homes can handle energy-rich colors, like indigo, to liven up your entry as a guide. Classic homes embrace the timeless look with a fresh red, blue, black, or deep charcoal gray. For the traditional architectural homes, add a bit of those bright pops of yellow, orange, or red to liven up and create a backdrop for your fall foliage. Add textures like a basket with fall foliage and layered rugs.

Switch up your entry: Grounding your space with texture and pattern can be a great way to make a person feel at home. Bring in those plants from your patio and repot them in a container with a pop of color. Place a mirror to make small spaces feel more extensive, and layer with your favorite fall accessories. Place in a textured cube, providing a place for your guests to remove their shoes.

LAYERS. LAYERS. LAYERS! – Going into the cold seasons, we’re aware of layering our clothing, but this works exceptionally well in the home also!

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Change out your old rugs with the season! Nothing says new season like new rugs that will draw your eyes to the floor. Layering is a great way to liven up your home and create more texture, patterns, and depth to the flat surface. Using this technique will make an eye-catching point of interest. Look outside the box and layer with the one of a kind character of a hair-on-hide rug. The textural difference of this natural rug is well suited for all décor styles.

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Liven up your bedding: 2020 has been a year of unexpected, and winter is upon us in South Dakota. When all you want to do is crawl into hibernation, you know you have to adult and go to work. Even IF it is only down the hall and you’re still in your pajamas… So how do you create that homey, cozy, safe, comfortable, relaxing oasis in YOUR bedroom? Add knits! Knits are so comfy and are always in style during the colder months. It’s easy to drop-in some knit pillows and blankets in bright colors or a patterned quilt or two at the end of your bed layered on top of a solid-colored, down-filled duvet to create the comfy and inviting look of a well-tailored, layered outfit.

Add foliage: Succulents are all the rage. Unlike your dog, they need very little water and attention. Just pot and go! Enjoy the texture and vibrant colors all winter long with the ease of these all-year plants.

Add lighting: You can add a bit of extra light in the simplest forms, from a cluster of candles to a new fixture in the corner of your room. A multilayered floor lamp is an easy addition anyone can make! Remember, lighting changes do not have to require an electrician. Think of lighting as jewelry for your room. A quick change by adding or clustering multiple light fixtures helps create a mood and style as unique as you!

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