Neilson Design Studio

Sometimes, you just REALLY want to see and experience something different. In design. In art.... In food. In life. In a pandemic. This kitchen island by @devolkitchens does not disappoint... and may officially be the island of my dreams. When we say design can create a mood - THIS magic is what were talking about. So... on the note of wanting something different... I decided this week that a mini-vacay is in order. Ive booked one for the end of September. I just REALLY want to experience something different right now. Im sure Im not alone. Amiright? Im removing myself from my daily routine and staying somewhere close to nature. To rest. Recharge. Kindle creativity. Im holding no expectations. Im unplugging. I cant wait. Tell me - how do you recharge your batteries these days? #alonetime #minivacay #restandrecharge kitchendesign #kitcheninspo #kitchenisland #design #Interior #interiordesign #architecturaldesign #architecture #interiordecorating #interiorstyling #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #moderncottage #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #housetour See more

Loving the warmth in this kitchen by @paulbatesarchitects #kitchendesign #kitcheninspo #livingroomdesign #livingroomdecor... #design #Interior #interiordesign #architecturaldesign #architecture #interiordecorating #interiorstyling #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #moderncottage #modernfarmhouse #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #housetour See more

Hey wait, its a long weekend?! With our kids back-to-school schedule shifting, this weekend and its significance was admittedly lost on me. Also, not being in an office outside the home means being home for the long weekend is.... well, its the same.... As with every other occasion this year, this weekend will look different. There will be no Perth Fair, which I admit to dreading every year (introvert alert), but havent missed in 39 years. I think well take this opportunity to work on projects in and around our home, take in some family time, and find a new adventure. Suggestions for outdoor adventures welcome!! Tell me about your favourite hiking places. And waterfalls! Where can I find some good ones? Cozy long-weekend vibes brought to you by @discinteriors . Classic, warm and minimal in the best kind of way. #longweekendvibes #cozyup #livingroomdesign #livingroomdecor #design #Interior #interiordesign #architecturaldesign #architecture #interiordecorating #interiorstyling #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #moderncottage #modernfarmhouse #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #housetour See more

Process shot. Messy but starting to take shape. There will be a lot of this happening over the next few weeks/months as new projects come to life in preparation for spring and summer builds. This is the part I love the most.... I could curl up with a book, but Id rather be sketching, researching, space planning or designing. I guess thats a sign I made the right career choice. #phew! #customhome #sketch #process #design #Interior #interiordesign #architecturaldesign #architecture #interiordecorating #interiorstyling #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #moderncottage #modernfarmhouse #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #housetour See more

I have a confession to make. I have been too spent these days to make posts on social media. Im definitely feeling it. Feeling it ALL. Work. Kids. Life. The collective feeling of WTF.... My kids are heading back to school. A big part of me wishes I had the capacity to teach them from home; the bigger part knows I cant. This is whats right for our family, at present. And honestly, I cant wait. I started this business during the pandemic and have been home with my two kids for it all. I wonder: what does a normal work week look like? Right now Im booked solid through to November, but maybe with a few less distractions I can work more efficiently and open up space for more clients? Maybe I wont want to and will relish some extra time for myself. Honestly, who even knows?! I do know this: - my kids are amazing and Im killing this Mom thing (and so are you) - we were not made to spend this much time with the same people on repeat - being a business owner is super rad and so rewarding - watching Friends reruns is currently bringing life (and humour) back to our household - I want built-in benches and window seats like this one by @mcgeeandco in all parts of my next house #allthereading #windowseat #itshappening Sending all the love, to all my peeps, in all parts of the world. We all need a little extra love these days. xo. J. #design #Interior #interiordesign #interiordecor #decorating #interiordecorating #interiorstyling #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #moderncottage #modernfarmhouse #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #housetour #entrepreneur #mompreneur See more

Cozy dining room and a fun alternative to the classic pendant light! Totally inspired to try this. Design: @dminteriors... #dining #diningroom #diningroomdesign #design #Interior #interiordesign #interiordecor #decorating #interiordecorating #interiorstyling #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #moderncottage #modernfarmhouse #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #housetour See more

I saw this beauty laundry room post on @marieflaniganinteriors today and thought yep, laundry is definitely a Sunday job at our place. I say this, and fully admit that I dont do the laundry in our house. Im not sure how or when I stopped, but an unspoken agreement happened and I am rarely responsible for it! Im loving the powdery blue cabinet colour in this space. So fresh, unique and bright.... #laundryroomdesign #laundryday #laundryroomdecor #design #Interior #interiordesign #interiordecor #decorating #interiordecorating #interiorstyling #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #moderncottage #modernfarmhouse #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #housetour See more

Today marked FOUR months since I launched my business officially. It doesnt feel like that long ago. Where does time ACTUALLY go? In these for months, Ive learned so much already. Especially these bits and pieces:... 1. I should have done this sooner. #obviously 2. All the free time I thought Id have to work ON the business is not a real thing. Also, #covid - WTF. 3. Hiring experts to guide you through the stuff you dont know is life saving. Or mental health saving. Or both. #investinexperts 4. My home office is quickly needing expansion. Watch for a studio build in the coming months! #necessities 5. All the fear I had was bullshit. Or head trash as one of my favourite mentors told me. Moving through the fear taught me to trust that what I have to offer is already enough. It doesnt need to be perfect. If you need to hear this: just do it already. 6. I am so supported. All of the referrals, personalized messages, DMs, emails, likes and shares, people stopping me on the street, or in the grocery store offering so much kindness and encouragement - THANK YOU. It means SO much to know I have a community of people cheering me on. I cant wait to see what the next four months will hold. I cant wait to see your projects come to life. I cant wait to share them with you all. xo. J. Design + : @neilsondesignstudio #design #Interior #interiordesign #interiordecor #decorating #interiordecorating #interiorstyling #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #relaxedmodern #customhomes #customhomedesign #modernfarmhouse #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #housetour #entrepreneur #smallbusiness See more

Design is a detail job. And a decision making job. And a job about making decisions about details.... This shower by @housesevendesign is a beauty example of how little detail decisions can make a big impact. #bathroomdesign #shower #designdetails #bath #masterdecisionmaker #design #Interior #interiordesign #interiordecor #decorating #interiordecorating #interiorstyling #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #moderncottage #modernfarmhouse #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #housetour See more

I was up early this Monday morning, but cant seem to stop thinking about going back to bed. A classic case of the Mondays after a beauty weekend at the lake. How do you motivate on Mondays?!... I usually start by finding inspiration. Like this bedroom by @muskokalivinginteriors Im loving the millwork details behind the bed. #cozy #bedroom #bedroomdesign #design #Interior #interiordesign #interiordecor #decorating #interiordecorating #interiorstyling #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #moderncottage #modernfarmhouse #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #housetour See more

Because when shes cute and snuggly like this, I forget about what an asshole she can be. #catlife #catlover #cozyup #design #Interior #interiordesign #interiordecor #decorating #interiordecorating #interiorstyling #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #moderncottage #modernfarmhouse #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #housetour

Sharing this little beauty by @ispydiy to talk about styling. Ever wonder how they make it look so damn good?! Well, some of it is practice, some of it is talent - loads of it can be learned!!... Swipe to see my markup of this image which shows a key element in styling: playing with different heights. I like to think of it like a landscape of mountains. Some are low, some are high, some are in the middle. From a distance, many mountains overlap each other creating that perfect picturesque landscape. Consider these key tips: - create groupings of items instead of just lining them up. Let the pieces get cozy with their friends - they dont need to social distance. - group similar items for repetition. A grouping of similar candle sticks, cutting boards, coloured glasses, etc. - layer. Put tall pieces in the back and smaller pieces in the front. - get friendly with triangles. Arranging pieces to create a distinct peak and valley moves your eye across an arrangement in a way that makes your brain happy. - change up the texture. Think smooth clear glass with textured rough wood. Or in this case, colourful greenery against a smooth marble backsplash. #design #Interior #interiordesign #interiordecor #decorating #interiordecorating #interiorstyling #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #moderncottage #modernfarmhouse #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #housetour See more

Officially have business cards thanks to @moo and my graphic designer Big Sis. In love with the quality, design, colours... And I love paper. The feel of the good quality stuff brings me an odd sense of joy.... #residentialdesigner #architecturaldesigner #smallbizowner #mompreneur #entrepreneur #customhomedesign #homedesign #interiordesign #interior #ottawainteriordesign #ottawaarchitecturaldesign #kingstoninteriordesign #kingstonarchitecturaldesign #graphicdesign #businesscards See more

I am consistently drawn to these shapes in residential architecture. The balance between old and new is at the core of my aesthetic as a designer. I find myself consistently drawn to older homes, farmhouses and simple salt box style.... I love the mix of the classic gable roof and modern materials shown in this beauty by @frazierhomedesign . Its a modern mix of classic elements and it makes me a happy gal. #residentislarchitecture #architecture #customhomedesign #exteriordesign #customhome #homedesign #interiordesign #interior #ottawainteriordesign #ottawaarchitecturaldesign #kingstoninteriordesign #kingstonarchitecturaldesign #modernfarmhouse #modernfarmhousedesign See more

Looking for inspo for a lakeside remodel Im working on. One of these is on the wish list and Im not mad about it! #windowseat #kitchenbar... Design inspiration @ericolsendesign See more

What makes a space we want to spend time in? I think an inviting space is a thoughtful combination of classic pieces, warm woods, textured materials and a fun infusion of something modern. The combination of these elements keeps a space fresh and a little bit unpredictable.... Were humans after all, and even as we resist change - we crave it. I think this dining space by @anthology_creative_studio mixes these elements beautifully. I would happily pull up a seat and share this space with friends and family. See more

This kitchen layout is one of my favourites! This type of layout breaks the kitchen into work zones and it eliminates corner cabinets, which can be a tricky place to utilize functionally. The full-height cabinets on the left are balanced on the right with tall pantry cabinets and the fridge (not shown) - this gives a classic sense of symmetry and tons of functional storage.... There are no traditional upper cabinets, but windows flanked by cabinets that come down to the countertop instead. Im in love with it all Design: @amberinteriors See more

Serene and simple. Relaxed. Ready for a cuddle. Design: @parkandoakdesign ... See more

Im an informal dining kind of gal. I know that if I had a separate formal dining area I would never use it, and it would end up collecting dust and any other bits and pieces that didnt have a home. As we are forever thinking of our future house we have discussed a big island and a dining table in the same space as the kitchen.... That being said, there IS something special about sitting down for dinner in a space where you cant see the kitchen sink. Which way do you lean? Formal dining? Informal dining? design: @imperfectinteriors Also - love this cabinet door detail. Its my current obsession. See more

Wallpaper! Its not a scary thing. Wallpaper can be neutral, loud, fun, bright, soft, textured, smooth, solid, patterned, graphic and floral. I could go on.... My point is that wallpaper gives us so many opportunities to infuse personality into a space. Granted, we might have gone a little wild in the 70s and 80s - but hopefully time can heal that trauma. And while wallpaper is typically a larger investment than paint, it is still removable. Nothing in life is permanent - not even wallpaper. +design: @neilsondesignstudio See more

Process. Sketches. Getting it out on paper.... Playing with materials. Seeing it come to life. #vacationrental #coastalmodern #cozyup #design #Interior #cottagedesign #architecture #architecturaldesign #interiordesign #interiordecorating #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #designsponge #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #moderncottage #athomewithrue #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful. #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #housetour See more

Work in progress. These babies will grace the coast of PEI some day and I cant wait! ... #vacationrental #coastalmodern #cozyup #design #Interior #architecture #architecturaldesign #interiordesign #interiordecorating #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #designsponge #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #moderncottage #athomewithrue #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful. #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #housetour See more

How can a space be modern and still warm? I think @anthology_creative_studio has nailed it in this kitchen design. - mix up materials (wood + lacquer cabinets)... - infuse a neutral colour (navy backsplash) - clean and simple lines (no fuss here!) - warm monochromatic colours (tone on tone baseboards, walls, cabinets and floor) #nailedit #monochromatic #doingneutralright #kitchendesign #cozyup #design #Interior #interiordesign #interiordecorating #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #hometohave #designsponge #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #modernrustic #moderncottage #athomewithrue #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #housetour See more

On this rainy Saturday morning, this looks like the perfect place to be. @seanandersondesign #cozyup #design #Interior #interiordesign #interiordecorating #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #hometohave #designsponge #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #modernrustic #moderncottage #athomewithrue #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #doingneutralright #housetour

Little curious helping hands. #rosiemags #tile ... #design #Interior #interiordesign #interiordecorating #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #hometohave #designsponge #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #modernrustic #moderncottage #athomewithrue #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #doingneutralright #housetour See more

@alvarezmorris just posted this beauty and my heart is aflame! The dramatic window! The scenery!... All the statements with exclamation points!!! #design #architecture #lakehouse #waterfront #Interior #interiordesign #interiordecorating #mydomaine #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #hometohave #designsponge #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #modernrustic #moderncottage #athomewithrue #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #housegoals #smmakelifebeautiful #hometohave #pocketofmyhome #lightandbright #doingneutralright #housetour See more

Im too excited to wait for the professional shots so my iPhone will have to do :) Heres a shot of the Mary St project which was the sweetest galley kitchen in a beautiful century home. Also, the sweetest customers - which is really what makes this job the BEST job around.... Design / @neilsondesignstudio #design #Interior #interiordesign #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #mudroom #kitchendesign #kitchen #modernfarmhouse #designdetails #interiordetails #classicdesign #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #modernrustic #moderncottage #athomewithrue #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #smmakelifebeautiful See more

My design brain loves DETAILS. And details dont necessarily mean something ornate. They are a thoughtful consideration of how materials and elements fit together. How they are finished or joined. How they elevate something we see daily and make it truly unique. Special. Beautiful.... *sigh* This is the romantic quality of design. The one I remind myself of when Im doing my bookkeeping, or tracking my hours, or standing knee deep in mud during site visits.... ....or looking for something in the building code. This island by @clementsdesign - I mean, cmon. Do you see these details?! This is what Im talking about! #design #Interior #interiordesign #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #mudroom #mudroomdesign #modernfarmhouse #designdetails #interiordetails #classicdesign #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #modernrustic #moderncottage #athomewithrue #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful #smmakelifebeautiful See more

Im noticing more and more exterior elements being brought inside - and Im not mad about it at all. Inspo @schoolhouse #design #Interior #interiordesign #ottawainteriordesign #kingstoninteriordesign #mudroom #mudroomdesign #modernfarmhouse #cedarshake #classicdesign #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #modernrustic #moderncottage #athomewithrue #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful

Sneak peek of my favourite part of the Mary St. project. Cant wait to share this little galley with you all. #interiordesign #design #interior #classicdesign #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #kitchen #kitchendesign #kitchengoals #modernrustic #countrykitchen #moderncottage #athomewithrue #likeitstyleit #home #houseenvy #myhousebeautiful

My go to tips for a timeless space: - play with a mix of old and new (old brick wall + modern tub and fixtures) - use elements that are current but not trendy (brass fixtures, painted brick) - keep a neutral colour palette (white on white)... - use furniture or materials with different textures to create interest and depth (smooth concrete floor, painted brick, textured wood vanity) - highlight architectural details (these doors!) Inspiration from the ever-talented @leannefordinteriors #interiordesign #design #interiors #classicdesign #moderninterior #relaxedmodern #designinspiration #bathroomdesign #bathroom #modernrustic See more

Early morning flower deliveries from my Bestie. Life is good and the house smells glorious. Thank you @berverse... @thehomestylist.ca check out the tables! Thanks for the tip, I love them. #happybirthday #bestiesarethebest #birthdayflowers #peonies #freshflowers #interiordesign #design #ottawadesign #kingstondesign #likeitstyleit #foundandforaged #homewithrue #grateful #gratitude See more

Dinners look different in our house when Im the only one home. Sometimes they look like this - sometimes they look like cereal. (But lets just let that first line simmer.... Im. The. Only. One. Home.) Glorious.... I typically experiment and throw a bunch of stuff in a pan or pot and hope to heck its turns out. This process isnt always as easy when there are kiddos with opinions about which foods should touch, or which veggies are on the ever changing acceptable list. These moments are a simple pleasure. In this dish, all sauted together: Kale, Red onion, Garlic, Corn, Black beans, Partial can of diced tomatoes Seasoned with: Seasoning salt, cumin, Franks Hot Sauce Topped with: fresh cilantro, feta, Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice Nom. Nom. Nom. #eatrealfood #dinnerforone #vegetariandinner #veggies #home #summerdinner #summertime

Todays inspiration is all about texture. Finding ways to use a variety of material texture adds interest and depth to even the most subtle colour palette. Texture in interior design is more than a tactile thing. Visual texture can be found by using different materials, shapes and patterns.... Here @designbywbl does it so well by mixing three distinct textures. A linear texture on the uppers/hood. A smooth texture on lowers. A texture with subtle movement on the concrete/plaster backsplash. The space is simple - almost lean in its adornment - and yet it is winning on the texture front. See more

I took a break this past week (and a bit). I spent this time following others and taking time to reflect. Ive read so much. Ive diversified my social feed to be more inclusive of black designers, leaders, influencers, writers and speakers. Im humbled. Im heartbroken.... These steps are small, I know. But they are the catalyst for a sustained momentum. This is my story, my experience. Yours may be different. Our pace may be different. Maya Angelou has one of my favourite quotes that feels particularly relevant now - When you know better, you do better. Be kind: to others and to yourself. Todays kitchen inspo: @devolkitchens #knowbetterdobetter #blacklivesmatter #kitcheninspiration #design #interiordesign #ottawainteriordesign #kitchendesign #kitchendecor #kitchen #kitchenisland #kitcheninspo See more

Ok seriously. How fun is this powder room by @girlandgrey ?! I love that powder rooms have become an opportunity to express your most fun self! #powderroom #powderroominspo #inspiration #design #ottawadesign #ottawainteriordesign #interiordesign

#blackouttuesday #blacklivesmatter #blackouttuesday

My heart hurts. Our hearts are hurting collectively, and it was time to speak up forever ago. My privilege means I get the opportunity to LEARN about racism instead of having to experience it throughout my life.... Todays inspiration isnt for your home design. Its inspiration to choose humanity first. Without borders, or colours, or religions. #blacklivesmatter #blm @thefeministvibe See more