Design is in our DNA. Even before Busby Group was founded, Julie Busby was working at one of the top real estate development firms in Chicago, learning the ins and outs of construction from inception to final delivery. Bit by the design bug, Julie put her knowledge to use remodeling her own homes, and helping dozens of clients. Our experience extends from the construction phase through interior design and furnishings. Think of it as our passion project side gig, that also happens to help our clients in a big way!
Before + Afters
Lincoln Park Condo: Sellers invested approximately $10K for fresh paint, new light fixtures, and refinishing the kitchen cabinets. Sold for 99.8% of list price, when another broker could not sell/lease for 100+ days.
Lakeview Condo: Sellers invested approximately $5K for new backsplash and refinished cabinets in the kitchen at wet bar. Sold for 98% of list price.
Uptown Condo: $15K invested in fresh paint, new window treatments, painted kitchen and bathroom cabinets, updated bathroom tile, new carpeting and new appliances.
Top Design Trends
Overall design: The design pendulum is swinging toward more traditional. We have been modern for the past several years, and now we will start seeing new developments/new construction properties with a more traditional feel.
Floor plans: While open floor plans are still of interest, the trend focuses on creating separate living spaces within the open floor plan creating small nooks/pockets for e-learning, Zoom calls, lounging, exercising, etc.
Colors: Along with the more modern look, colors have leaned cooler (greys, blues) for the past decade or so. 2021 is all about warmer, organic tones like putty, cream and rust.
Kitchens: Vent hoods are having a huge moment, in particular chimney breast hoods. This design creates an alcove for the range and hood that looks like a chimney. in the kitchen that looks like a chimney. For cabinets, it is all about natural wood tones!
Outdoor space: Creating a relaxing, private outdoor space is more important than ever. Simple ways to enhance even a small space include a fountain, fire pit, green wall or pergola.
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Paint: This is our number one recommendation. Paint can make smaller spaces appeal bigger, smooth imperfections and make a home feel instantly fresh and clean. Nine times out of ten we recommend white, but email us with specifics and we are happy to tailor our feedback. Paint the whole house: moldings, ceilings and walls – you won’t regret it!
Kitchen cabinets + backsplash: If you have darker wood kitchen cabinets, painting is a no brainer. While light wood is definitely having a moment, darker wood is still a throwback to the 90s and instantly make a room look dated. We recommend white or beige for the cabinets. If you do not currently have a backsplash or it is dark or dated looking, it definitely pays to update and upgrade. Subway tile or another classic shape is recommended, along with light and neutral color tones.
Light fixtures: New lighting is one of the easiest ways to update a space. We love CB2 and West Elm for reasonably priced and modern/classic pieces. Focus on lighting that is the big focus of a room: kitchen pendants or dining room chandeliers.
Carpeting: If your carpeting is old, dark or in disrepair, replacing is the way to go. Buyers love to see stain-resistant, performance weaves in a neutral color.
Staging: Now that you have invested in remodeling, make sure your furniture does it justice. If your pieces are too large or too small for the space, consider some light staging to make sure rooms look spacious and updated.
Questions?
Reach out anytime, we are happy to chat further!
