In the midst of COVID-19, I am trying to stay hopeful. We don’t know when this is going to end, but I believe it will. So, I’m doing my best to look to the future and plan for the time when we see the other side of this. We are two weeks into staying home and I’m finding all kinds of home improvement projects that I want to tackle. I don’t know about you, but I’m tired of staring at the same four walls. When I’m not at the store curating Easter Baskets and quarantine kits for folks or chasing after two teens to do their homework, I’m planning a little room refresh for our master bedroom. If you’re doing the same kind of planning, then we want to help with some inspiration from a few of our interior design friends. 

Photo from Nicole Lanteri of Nicole Lanteri Design

 Starting today, we are launching a series of “Meet the Designer” posts on our Instagram page. We have asked some of our favorite DMV interior designers to share a picture of their favorite project and tell us a little bit about it. Then they will be taking your questions. Ask them whatever you like. It can be about the project itself, your own project that you’re planning, or the meaning of life. It’s up to you!We are excited to bring you projects from our old friends, Lindsay Boudreaux of Shotgun Double, Kristin Try, and Regan Billingsley, and to introduce you to a few new folks. In the coming weeks, you’ll have the opportunity for design guidance from color loving Nicole Lanteri, my new design crush, Lori Anderson Wier, stylist extraordinaire, Kristin Alcorta of Pursuing Vintage, and the queens of classic Rebecca Penno and Liz Mearns. 

Photo from Suzanne Manlove of Arlington Home Interiors

 First up is Arlington Stylebook contributor, Suzanne Manlove of Arlington Home Interiors. Her cool and contemporary style is ridiculously appealing. I think you are really going to enjoy the beautiful outdoor space that she created for her clients. Be sure to check out all our designers’ websites to see more projects!As we stay home, we will bring you more content from these fine folks. I’ve always believed that planning for the future brings hope and hope is what we need right now. The goal of this series is to keep us moving forward together. Because it’s together that will bring a better – and prettier – tomorrow. Take care and stay safe!