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slate studios | the guide | blog

A collection of essays exploring design philosophy, process, and the spaces we create.
Explore our curated blogs on design.

slate studios | the guide | blog

A collection of essays exploring design philosophy, process, and the spaces we create.
Explore our curated blogs on design.


How to Style Your Thanksgiving Table
There’s nothing more timeless and elegant than a well-styled holiday table. This fall, we’re channeling the rich hues of nature to inspire a Thanksgiving tablescape that’s sure to impress. Think warm shades of merlot, amber, and spice, mixed metals like silver and champagne gold, layered textures, and touches of vintage glassware to create the perfect setting for gathering with family and friends. Color Palette Inspiration: Merlot, Amber & Spice When it comes to your Thanksgi
Katherine Walker
Sep 25, 20243 min read


High vs Low: Transforming the Same Office Space at Two Different Price Points
When embarking on an interior design project, one of the main questions we are asked relates to how much should be budgeted for the furnishings, finishes, and fixtures. There is not a black and white answer to this question as there are many variables to consider such as the size of the space, the elements needed to complete the space, if existing furnishings are to be used, and weather to invest in forever/heirloom quality pieces or go with more budget friendly pieces that m

Katie Walker
Aug 29, 20244 min read


Building Your Dream Team: Who do you need for your project, and why?
Whether you're situated in the vibrant neighborhoods of Ybor City, the picturesque locales of Davis Islands, or anywhere in the Tampa Bay area, embarking on a renovation or new construction project requires a strategic approach from the very beginning. With combined experience of over 35+ years of hands-on experience in residential and commercial renovations, Slate Studios understands the importance of the professionals you bring on board and why they can be the ultimate game
Katherine Walker
Jul 29, 20245 min read


Kitchen Favs We Are Obsessing Over
As interior design enthusiasts, we believe that the right kitchen tools not only enhance your cooking experience but also add a touch of elegance and personality to your space. Today, we're excited to share some of our favorite kitchen finds that seamlessly blend functionality with style. Whether you love to cook or do it simply because you have to, these bright and cheerful kitchen finds will have you wanting to spend time in the kitchen! KitchenAid Mixer: The Classic Workho
Katherine Walker
Jun 21, 20243 min read


When to Bring an Interior Designer Onboard: A Guide for Homeowners
Embarking on a home renovation or new construction project is an exciting endeavor, filled with endless possibilities for transforming your space. Amidst the hundreds (or even thousands) of decisions to be made, we often hear this question: when is the right time to hire an interior designer? I’m here to help you understand the importance of early collaboration with an interior designer and provide insights into when to bring them onboard for your project. Early Collaboration

Katie Walker
May 20, 20245 min read


Exploring High Point Furniture Market 2024: A Designer's Perspective
It’s Slate Studios favorite time of the year!! That’s right, Spring Market! I am dying to share our recent trip to the High Point Furniture Market 2024! As professional interior designers, we're always educating ourselves and strengthening our bonds with our vendors. In this blog post, I am thrilled to share our highlights, key takeaways, and the trends that have us buzzing with creativity. What is High Point Furniture Market? For those unfamiliar, the High Point Furniture Ma
Katherine Walker
May 2, 20243 min read


What’s the difference between a General Contractor, an Architect and an Interior Designer?
It may seem like the setup for a humorous anecdote, but the question of whether clients truly need an interior designer is one we encounter frequently. While the interior design, contractor and architect professions often overlap, each brings a unique set of skills and expertise to the table. This dilemma highlights a common query faced by clients navigating renovation and new construction projects. In the following discussion, let's delve deeper into the distinct roles and c

Katie Walker
Mar 18, 20246 min read


Love in Every Detail: A Valentine's Day Gift Guide for the Design Enthusiast
Whether it's your significant other, a close friend, or a family member, these carefully curated selections will add a touch of love to their spaces. Let's dive into our Valentine's Day Gift Guide! Personalized Home Decor and Luxurious Bedding Shower your design enthusiast with personalized home decor items. Consider monogrammed throw pillows, custom wall art featuring special dates or coordinates, or even a bespoke doormat with a sweet message. These items not only add a per
Katherine Walker
Feb 8, 20243 min read


Australia's Engineered Stone Ban: A Pivotal Moment for the Interior Design Industry?
In a groundbreaking move, Australia has become the first country to announce a comprehensive ban on engineered stone beginning next year, signaling a significant shift in the interior design industry. This decision comes as a response to the rising cases of silicosis, a debilitating lung disease linked to the handling and cutting of engineered stone. This means even quartz, an engineered stone, that is widely used in the U.S. will also be banned. Will the U.S. follow Australi
Katherine Walker
Jan 8, 20243 min read


Week 8: Office Reveal, One Week Late!
Welcome, dear readers, to the grand finale of my One Room Challenge journey! It's been an exciting eight weeks of design and a touch of chaos, but I'm thrilled to finally share my office reveal. Now, if you've been on this wild ride with me, you know we aimed for an eight-week sprint, but like all good stories, ours took a twist and danced its way into nine weeks. But hey, good things come to those who wait, right? In this blog post, I'll take you through the entire process –

Katie Walker
Nov 22, 20233 min read
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