Talo Design Co.

Karen Dorsey Design is now Talo Design Co. The same creative designs with a new name.

Happy Lunar New Year! There is no better time than now to highlight the beauty of Asian design. When you think of Asian design you instantly think serene, peaceful and Zen. Here are seven essential elements that are characteristic of this design style

#1 Low Furniture

#2 Altar-like Alcoves

#3 Natural Materials

#4 Clean Lines

#5 Circle Motif

#6 Orchids

#7 Balance with Asymmetry

What people think interior designers do vs what we actually do.

Here is an interesting fact about me that always surprises people.

I don’t watch HGTV!

It’s not because I don’t like it because I obviously love all things design. It’s more about me being obsessed with the Real Housewives. Yes, it is my guilty pleasure. When I have some down time I really enjoy snuggling up on the sofa with my schnoodle and watching the housewives. My favorites are Beverly Hills, New York and the OC.

5 Reasons to Hire an Interior Designer

Your home is where you spend a large portions of your time, so why not hire an interior designer to design your space? Designers are trained professionals who create beautiful spaces that meet your everyday needs. Unfortunately, many people are concerned with the cost and process of working with a designer. Here are the top five reasons hiring an interior designer is the right move.

#1 Save Money
Have you ever had to repaint because the color just wasn’t right? Have you ever bought a piece of furniture that looked great in the store but didn’t fit once you got it home? Avoid costly mistakes like this by hiring a designer. Not to mention if you are on a tight budget, a designer is going to know how to get the best value out of what you can spend.

#2 Save Time
Have you ever spent hours or maybe days or weeks looking at Pinterest for ideas? Have you spent your entire weekend driving around town looking for materials? Hiring a designer will save you time by searching out resources and planning the project for you. Not to mention a designer has a trained sense of scheduling and anticipating obstacles that may arise as the project progresses.

#3 Project Liaison
Interior designers speak the same language as your architects, contractors and tradesmen. This is crucial for managing time and money. Strong communication is key for a project’s success.

#4 Resources
Everyone knows it is difficult to find good resources. By hiring a designer it gives you access to qualified service providers as well as materials that are not available to the general public.

#5 The Wow Factor
Designers are trailed to think creatively and out of the box. It’s guaranteed a designer will come up with ideas that homeowners have never considered. They will create a custom designed space that ensures everything fits perfectly and is truly unique to your home.

Contact Karen Dorsey Design if you are ready to get started making your house a home.

Getting ready for Super Bowl Sunday with one of my favorite chili recipes from Ree Drummond. There is nothing quite like chili on a cold winter day while watching the Chiefs win the again. Yes, I'm a Chiefs fan. I grew up in Missouri which means I like the Chiefs and beans in my chili! I've adapted to a lot of Texas traditions but I can't get into the beanless chili.⁠

Recipe Link: https://www.karendorseydesign.com/post/super-bowl-chili-recipe
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Enjoy! xoxo,⁠ Coco

Although I create all types of design styles, I seem to have settled into the niche of transitional design. What is transitional design you ask?

Transitional design is the blending of traditional and modern element in a way that creates a cohesive, timeless design. It is built on the concept that a space should be both refined and comfortable. Here are a few elements you will see in transitional design:

-neutral color schemes
-colorful accessories
-limited accessories
-focus on comfort
-large scale patterns
-layering of textured finishes
-mixed metal tones
-symmetry
-simple lines
-traditional statement pieces
-contemporary art

Transitional design is best summed up with the description understated sophistication. It has become a popular style as it allows you to integrate heirloom pieces with more up to date finishes and less clutter.

If you are ready to give your home a fresh, transitional update give me a shout!

Blog Link: https://www.karendorseydesign.com/post/transitional-design

Word Of The Day: BANQUETTE

A built-in or free-standing upholstered bench. Often used in breakfast nooks. Commonly seen in commercial applications.



Blog Link: https://www.karendorseydesign.com/post/word-of-the-day-banquette

Photo Credit
Left: Enzo banquette from www.urbannatural.com
Right: www.pickledbarrel.com

Rise & Shine! It's time to get the day started. How do you start your mornings?⁠
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Here is how I start each workday. First I fix a cappuccino from my machine...which I can not live without. FYI, I still need to learn how to make decorative patterns on top of the froth like a real barista but until then cinnamon and sugar will work. Then I head to my office. It is about 20 feet from the kitchen so the commute is a breeze. I open my daily planner from and list my tasks to complete for the day and schedule my day. Then it is over to my Mac to reply to emails. From there I'm off and running for the day.

Blog Link: https://www.karendorseydesign.com/post/get-to-know-your-designer

Now offering DIY By Design online interior design services. Online Design is perfect for homeowners who are ready to tackle their project in a more hands-on, budget-friendly approach to interior design. Online Design is a great option no matter where you live.

I've really been loving Arteriors lighting and home decor products these days. Their use of mixed metals, organic form and modern simplicity inspires me to push the edge of my own projects.