Interest and demand for smokeless and odorless candles and fireplaces are on the rise.  Bioethanol options are just one of the many ways you can invest in a greener and healthier home.   At the International Builders show in Las Vegas last month the eco-friendly story was as hot as ever, and gaining in popularity.  Click on the link here for more ways to be green.  

It's bamboo (hello earth friendly) and you can stain or paint it any color under the sun.  

Besides the fact that this product is eco-friendly and made from pressed bamboo pulp, the extra bonus is that the panels are also absorb sound.  First installation that comes to mind - kid's playroom!

When you want to add a unique new texture to a feature wall, backsplash, or ceiling, take a look at Architectural Systems' award winning product: Eco- Dimensions' Bamboo wall panel.

Here is another installation photo of the Eco-Dimension Bamboo wall.  This was designed by the Robert F. Stettner Interior Design Group at Element in New York, NY.

Since most days in the life of an interior designer involve hours spent hunting for that perfect piece, we thought you would like to see some of the unique pieces we come across.  Here is the first of many.

At the request of a client, I discovered Sioux Falls' newest home furnishing shop, the Zing Idea Factory at 301 S Minnesota Avenue.  The old Firestone warehouse has been converted into an interior shop, offering fresh new products, with tendencies towards urban modernism and whimsical fancy.  
The accessories and wall decor inspired me the most, and the friendly staff made it a wonderful visit.  
Did we purchase? You bet.  A dining table turned desk, a convertible sofa bed, and a bulldog statue, of course.  
Looking forward to going back and doing a little shopping for myself!  Thank you Zing Idea Factory, for providing a different avenue of inspiration. 

NCIDQ.
The big "boards" of interior design.  It requires an interior design degree and nearly two years of experience.  For Michele, that was in 2005.  Now almost 8 years later she has agreed to bite the bullet and submit herself to the exam.  For her, it's less about the credentials and more about the continuing education.  Clients will only benefit from the up-to-date and relevant knowledge that will be crammed into her head over the next six months.  Good luck!! 

That's right. In an attempt to bring out the craftiness within, Michele is hosting a decorating class on September 10 through Sioux Falls' Community Education.  The class will be held at Traditions (downtown on Phillips Ave) and will showcase different options for organizing and displaying your mantle for the upcoming season.  The holidays are upon us and if you want to celebrate them in style, sign up today!

The Sioux Falls Community Ed course catalog arrived in the mail today!  
Check out the design, property, and finance section to sign up for Michele's newest class offering: "Staging Your House for Sale."  
The one and only class is offered on Thursday October 25 from 6:30-8:30

When should you hire a professional home stager?  BEFORE you list your house, of course.  BEFORE you bring in a real estate agent? YES.  Home Staging will showcase your house for the most important decision you need to make - how much to list it for.  Like everyone else, realtors are influenced by their first impression.  Let Awaken Interiors help you make it count.