Beyond the Designs
Welcome to Beyond the Designs - a lifestyle blog by CRD&CO. I look to share some moments beyond the projects including lifestyle, fashion, food, and all the things I love! I hope you enjoy this fresh and new content. And, please, reach out with any and all feedback or ideas. I’d love to hear from you! xx
Let There Be Light: Fixtures That Make a Statement
Discover how thoughtful lighting design can completely transform your home. From statement chandeliers to cozy bedside sconces, learn how to layer light beautifully in every room for a warm, inviting glow. 💡
A Dreamy Design for a Milestone Birthday
This primary bedroom remodel was designed as the ultimate birthday gift — a serene, light-filled retreat that blends luxury and comfort. From soft textures and calming tones to personalized details that reflect the client’s story, this space captures the essence of restful living. Discover how thoughtful interior design can transform a bedroom into a tranquil sanctuary that feels both timeless and deeply personal.
A Cozy Home
Fall has a way of inviting us to slow down, gather close, and savor the comforts of home. As the crisp air rolls in and the days grow shorter, it’s the perfect time to refresh your spaces with thoughtful fall decorating ideas that feel both elevated and timeless.
Celebrating Three Years of CRD&CO.
Three years. It feels impossible to sum up everything that has happened since I launched CRD&CO., but this anniversary feels especially meaningful. The late nights that turned into early mornings, the stress and the tears, the wins both big and small—all of it has shaped not only this business, but me too.
Everything I Loved: September Edition
September is moving at the speed of light! It was a month that I thought I was really going to embrace my morning routine - you know, the 5:00 AM wake, hydrate, meditate, and tackle the days workout routine, all before B and the girls wake up - but little did I know, September would come in on fire and make me BEYOND exhausted! Despite the new school year and activity schedule whipping me out, there are endless moments that made me smile and cry just a bit!
From Blank Canvas to Cozy Haven
Some spaces begin as a true clean slate—empty walls, bare floors, and endless possibility. This project was just that, and the transformation is one of warmth, color, and collected beauty.
Sourcing Corner: Fall Decor Refresh
There’s something about the shift into fall that makes us crave warmth, texture, and a fresh layer of cozy in our homes. As an interior designer (and someone who loves embracing seasonal transitions), I look at fall décor not just as pumpkins and plaid, but as an opportunity to refresh your spaces with thoughtful pieces that carry you from crisp September mornings through the holidays.
Back to School & a New Routine
As both a mom and an interior designer, I know how quickly the first week of school can fly by. The rush of new routines, school supplies, and the excitement (and nerves!) of a fresh start often leaves our homes buzzing with activity. Now that we’ve made it through week one, it’s the perfect time to pause, catch our breath, and create spaces that support calm, focus, and a little inspiration for the year ahead.
From Chaos to Calm
Every year, back to school feels like turning a page — exciting, a little chaotic, and always bittersweet. As a mom, I’m juggling the usual: new shoes, lunchbox ideas, earlier bedtimes… all while trying not to cry over how fast they’re growing.
Sourcing Corner: Shelfie Accessories
As an interior designer, one of the most rewarding parts of a project is getting to the finishing line — and shelf styling is one of my favorites. It’s where personality and design truly come together.
Holding Onto Summer Nights
As July fades and school supply lists start appearing on the fridge, I find myself holding onto summer nights a little tighter.
Everything I Loved: July Edition
I feel like every time I sit down to write my monthly recap, I say the same thing, “How is it the end of the month already?” July was a fast one full of design moments, major project progress on our (2!) full home remodels, styled moments that I can’t wait to share, and softball - lots and lots of softball.
Behind The Name
“Hey Catherine! It’s so nice to meet you.” is the phrase I hear on a daily basis. In the past two-and-a-half years, my name has gone from Alison to Catherine and back to Alison in the matter of minutes of meeting vendors, potential clients, and everyone in between.
Designing the Perfect Summer Bar Cart
As the summer sun stretches into the evening and entertaining moves outdoors, there’s no better time to refresh your bar cart. Whether you're hosting a backyard soirée or enjoying a quiet cocktail on the patio, a well-styled bar cart adds both function and flair to your summer gatherings.
Happy Fourth of July
As both an interior designer and a mom, the Fourth of July holds a special place in my heart—it’s the perfect blend of celebration, creativity, and cherished family time.
Everything I Loved: June Edition
The end of June always gets me super emotional. Another school year comes to an end, the season shifts and the craziness that surrounds these last few weeks all seem to blend into each other. It’s the time of year I wish we could slow down just a bit.
School’s Out For The Summer
School’s out, the kids are home, and summer is officially here — which means life just got a whole lot louder, messier, and somehow even busier.
Gift Guide: Last Minute Teacher Gift Ideas
As the school year wraps up, I always find myself asking the same question: "How is it already the last week of school?" With the chaos of end-of-year events, sports, and summer plans ramping up, remembering to put together a thoughtful teacher gift sometimes falls to the bottom of the list.
Everything I Loved: May Edition
Is it me or do the spring months just blend into one big cluster? As a mom, the days are so chaotic and it seems like 2:30 pm appears out of nowhere. May was full of a lot of late night office moments to hit deadlines, play catch up, and check things off my to-do list.
MDW: The Kickoff to Summer
Summer always sneaks up on me — but as both an interior designer and a mom, I’ve learned that a little early prep can make the season smoother, more beautiful, and a lot more fun.

