I’m always inspired by what interior designers can do to a space. While I think in terms of how a space is organized, an interior designer is so easily able to balance things like color and texture all while creating a beautiful scene out of furniture and form.

This month, I am so happy to feature Elyse Garlock of Elyse Garlock Home. I had heard how amazing Elyse was from mutual friends that she and I had in common but didn’t end up meeting her in-person until years later when we both relocated from California to Utah.

Once we connected, I just knew I wanted to interview her and have her share some of her design insights with you in this month’s Design Series Feature.

Q: How do you go about planning out a new space?

A: I usually sit down with the client (or myself) and talk through a few things—1) the purpose/main use of the space (want it pretty but also practical); 2) what their general design style is—simple, modern, traditional—I usually have them send me a few inspiration pictures so I can really get a sense of what they’re picturing in their head for the space; 3) and their realistic budget.

Q: What budget-conscious tips do you have for someone who wants to redo a space in their home? Where should they look for ideas and pieces?

A: I usually tell people to invest in nicer large items that will hold up well and that they can have for a long time - think area rugs, couches, kitchen table, etc. I think a lot of people - especially those with kids - will just get something cheap because they figure it will get trashed anyway. Well, cheap items usually do get trashed pretty quickly, and then they just don’t look nice! And no one wants that. Instead, purchase large items that are good quality and will be able to withstand the wear and tear. Solid wood, performance fabrics, etc. These will usually cost more up front, but will last longer, look nicer, and clean up easier. Other items that are easily influenced by ever-changing design trends are great places to save money. This could include decor to fill shelves & built-ins, throw pillows, art work, etc. For things like this, I turn to places like Target, Amazon, H&M home, Zara Home, IKEA, and Heirloom Art Co (for art prints). Bringing in natural elements like wood tones and greenery can also make your space feel more refined without costing a lot.

Q: How do you feel about the relationship between home organization and home design?

A: For me, home organization and home design are completely intertwined. I value simplicity and clean lines in my design, and that is impossible to achieve when things are cluttered and disorganized. Designing is all about how the space is going to make you feel - for me I’m looking to feel peaceful and content - and a huge part of that feeling comes from knowing that everything has its place and that I know where to find the things I need. When I can see all the messes in my house, it adds so much to my anxiety. I wish I were better at keeping things organized - it’s definitely a constant battle!

Q: Design isn't the only thing you're an expert about - can you share more about Dualspace?

A: Dualspace is a company my husband and I started in 2018. It is essentially a marketplace of locations - homes and studios - that are available to rent for photo and video shoots. It wasn’t something we ever really intended to do. In 2017, the company my husband was working for needed a house for a product shoot (my husband was on the marketing team), and he volunteered our house as a last minute replacement. It went well and was a super easy way to make money. After that, some of the people on the video team asked for other location recommendations for other shoots, and we reached out to some friends and neighbors who had cool homes to see if they’d be interested. It just kind of snowballed from there. We found there wasn’t really a great option for finding locations, other than these sites with thousands of homes that were all over the place style/design wise. We thought it would be helpful for crews to have a smaller, more curated collection to choose from. And, it would also be helpful to those homeowners wanting to host shoots to have a platform to get greater exposure… I find that brands are looking for a couple different types of homes when they do shoots. One preference is for spaces that are light and bright, free of clutter, and that are neutral enough to change decor as needed to match the brand. Alternatively, they sometimes are looking for a home with a very specific style - mid-century modern, tuscan, farmhouse - that is consistent throughout the space.

Thank you so much Elyse for taking the time to answer my interior design questions and for sharing your tips! Be sure to give her a follow on Instagram and you can learn more about Dualspace here.

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