Finding the Middle Ground: Balancing Beauty and Accessibility in Design

By Gina Stigi

“Learn more about the evolution of interior design from a focus on costly trade-only options to embracing a broader range of services that incorporate innovative, affordable design solutions. ” - GINA STIGI

What is the Middle Ground?

Middle Ground refers to a balanced approach that merges contrasting ideas or styles, fostering collaboration and creativity in design. In the realm of interior design, it signifies the sweet spot where high-quality solutions meet accessibility, allowing a wider audience to achieve beautiful, personalized spaces without overwhelming costs or time commitments. This philosophy embraces the idea that great design can be attainable for everyone, regardless of budget.

When I started my Interior Design business in 1998, it was a different world. 

Pre-internet, the core of my business was “use what you have” – the premise was that I would use ONLY what people had in their homes to create functional, beautiful spaces.

I did a lot of rearranging and reimagining of their belongings, providing well-designed spaces for a broader demographic. My early focus was on maximizing clients’ existing possessions to create thoughtful, beautiful interiors for everyday people.

Eventually, my clients (and I) wanted more. I’ve expanded the business from solely ‘use what you have’ to include full-service design and everything in between, but my ethos remains – use what you have first. My role is to refine homes and help clients realize their design dreams within their budget.  While my services have grown, my commitment to enhancing what clients already own continues to guide my work.

Similarly, wonderful new services have emerged that help consumers achieve high-end custom designs with less investment in time and money. This “Middle Ground” of design is where I’ve always thrived, and I’m excited to share these tools with my clients. The rise of innovative design services allows more people to access quality design solutions without breaking the bank.

Middle Ground Resources

Window treatments are one of the priciest and most time-consuming aspects of high-end interior design. When I started, choices were limited to low-quality shades or expensive custom treatments. Enter TWOPAGES, a perfect example of Middle Ground design. This service offers hundreds of customizable fabrics and a comprehensive measuring tool that ensures accuracy. TWOPAGES provides a valuable, easy to use option for custom window treatments, combining quality and affordability.

Beyond windows, the semi-custom online design world also includes rugs with companies like Ernesta Rugs and The Perfect Rug. These options offer high-quality rugs cut to the inch, unlike the standard ready-made options. FLOR tiles further enhance flexibility by allowing custom sizes and patterns that can easily adapt to everyday life. These modern rug solutions offer customization and practicality, making them ideal for family homes.

For wall decor, many clients are shocked by the high cost of custom framing. Companies like Frame it Easy and Framebridge enable you to create custom frames at a fraction of the cost by uploading your artwork digitally. Affordable custom framing options make it easier to showcase your cherished artwork without overspending.

In upholstery, while most online retailers offer limited fabric choices, Liven Up Design allows for extensive customization. You can choose your design, fabric, and finishing touches. Etsy is also a treasure trove for finding custom pillow makers. Custom upholstery options empower you to create unique pieces that reflect your personal style, and you don’t need a pricey designer to find what you need! 

Lastly, built-in shelving can be expensive and impractical for renters. Modern Shelving and Shelfology offer modular, customizable solutions for various spaces. Even traditional retailers like Room & Board provide customizable furniture options. Modular and customizable furniture solutions are widely accessible and fun to create, making it easier to design personalized and functional spaces.

The choices are endlessly customizable, just as your home should be! Embrace the myriad of design options available today to create a space that truly reflects your individuality.

*All photographs provided by Gina Stigi.

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