Design Insights From the Studio
A space for honest advice, beautiful ideas, and the kind of thinking that helps you make smarter, more confident decisions about your home. Each post is written by Gaddah — with the same directness and warmth she brings to every client conversation.
Interior Décor Is Not One Size Fits All
… You know the feeling you have when you are wearing a fabulous outfit? The kind of outfit that is not only flattering, but also fashionable (without being trendy), high quality and comfortable.…
The First Step is Always Space Planning
… By doing this first, not only will you ensure all of your functional needs are met, but you will also know the exact size and scale of what you need for your space.
Here’s how we approach space planning at Yassein Interiors…
Creating Harmony in Your Home: Cohesive Interior Design
…To create harmony in your home, you must consider the design of the whole home. This is not to say you cannot tackle things in phases if you choose. However, knowing your plan for the entire home allows you to create spaces that connect and speak to one another.
Here are some ways to create harmony in your home…
The Art of Customizing Your Home: Personalize Your Living Spaces
… I understand if there’s a certain aesthetic that you’re drawn to. Or perhaps you take inspiration from a particular aesthetic. However, your home isn’t yours until you’ve personalized it… Here are some examples of things to consider in personalizing your space…
What Interior Designers Actually See When They Enter Your Home
… As an interior design professional, I consider myself, first and foremost, a problem-solver. I like to ask questions, figure out what’s not working (and why) and come up with solutions to my clients’ problems. It is enormously satisfying! When I go into or visit someone’s home for the first time, here are the things I do notice…
What Is My Design Style?
… Whether it’s a renovation or redesign of your interior space, a label can provide clarity, right? My answer may not be quite what you expect. When thinking about your space and your needs, start with its function…
Great Accessories Finish A Space
… It seems like a small thing, and maybe even an afterthought, but the finishing accessories you add into your space will make it feel complete…
Where to spend when furnishing your home
…where is it best to spend? And where is more restraint appropriate? ... 4 factors to consider when deciding where to dream big vs. spending more modestly.
How to Make a Room Feel Warmer
If you updated your interior in the last few years with a monochromatic neutral interior, you may find yourself craving a little more warmth or colour at this bleak time of year.
What Does It Really Cost to Furnish a Home?
An honest guide to interior decorating budgets for homeowners investing in their forever home. From furnishing costs to full-service fees — what to expect and how to plan.
How much does an interior decorator cost in Canada?
… In a typical full service design project, 15-30% of the total budget is allocated to the design and procurement portions to ensure that the remaining 70-85% is spent wisely in achieving a great and lasting result…
Great Design Increases the Value of Your Home
Some people consider hiring a designer a luxury. My clients view it as an investment, not only in their well-being, but also in one of their most substantial assets - their home.
What to do with extra rooms, now that the kids have moved out
If your kids have moved out, you might find yourself with some extra rooms or space. Some people at this stage wonder if they should consider moving and downsizing. But consider the expense of moving (not to mention the hassle). If you already like your house, there is a better approach: redesign your space to better function for your current needs.
Better Sleep Month
More and more we know that sleep is critical to good health and longevity. Not only are you a better version of yourself when rested, but you are also preserving your brain health and physical health.
Now why is it we underestimate the value of a beautifully finished and well functioning bedroom to sleep in?
Southern Beauty
There are bathrooms that play it safe, and there are bathrooms that commit. Botanical mosaic tile, dark veined marble, a forest green vanity with brass hardware, and black fixtures throughout — a primary bathroom where every decision supports the one next to it.
Why We Always Mix Metals
Matching every metal finish in a room is one of the most common decorating mistakes. Here's why mixing metals creates more timeless, interesting spaces — and how to do it with confidence.
Seven shades of white
… There are hundreds of white colours that have varying undertones that can make or break a space design. Picking the right one can be very challenging. Here are seven Yassein Interior projects that each feature a different white paint from Benjamin Moore …
Purge Before Starting to Design
Let’s face it… we all enjoy instant gratification. Designing our spaces is no different… it is incredibly difficult to resist the temptation to jump in and start looking at all the new elements you can bring into your space. But I believe this is exactly the right moment to pause…
The Power of Decor
The power of decor is often underestimated. Whether it is a small update or a complete renovation, unless you plan out and execute the decor portion of the project, your room or home will not give you the feeling you desire. Of course, if what you desire is an empty space then that’s a different blog topic!
Selecting a paint colour for your room
One of the most common mistakes people make is selecting a paint colour first and then trying to decorate around it. The paint colour is the last thing you should select! Think about putting together a woman’s clothing outfit. Would you select lipstick first and then go shopping to find the outfit, shoes and accessories? Of course, not. The same is true when decorating your home.