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
The Pretty Part vs. The Actual Part
The finished photos are always the pretty part—but the real design happens in between. We’re taking you behind the scenes of The Peacock Project to share the decisions, details, problem-solving, and layers that turned a traditional 1990s home into a space that truly feels like the family who lives there.
Autumn: According to an Interior Designer
Cozy layers, richer colors, comforting flavors, and playful seasonal touches - discover why autumn is my favorite time of year, at home and beyond.
Everything I Loved: September Edition
September brought a return to school routines, a refreshed design studio, project finishing touches, and new beginnings with both new and returning CRD&CO. clients.
Trending Around CRD&CO: Custom Furnishings
A closer look at how thoughtful sourcing, custom upholstery, and a rich, family-friendly color palette transformed this Westfield home into a comfortable place for everyday living.
We’re So Back: Fall at Our New Jersey Interior Design Studio
After taking a much-needed break from marketing, CRD&CO. is back with fresh perspective, recently completed installations, exciting renovations, and limited availability for new fall interior design projects.
Project Spotlight: The Kitchen at #CRDCOxItWasMeantToBe
From custom Macadamia Nut cabinetry and Statuario Nuvo quartz to a striking soapstone range feature and vertical shiplap backsplash, this Scotch Plains kitchen was designed to be the heart of the home and a place where everyday moments become lasting memories.
My Go-To Summer Side Dish: Creamy Cucumber Avocado Chickpea Salad
A fresh, easy summer side dish inspired by Kristin Cavallari and Bobby Flay, made with cucumbers, avocado, chickpeas, lemon, honey, and flaky sea salt.
Everything I Loved: May Edition
From exciting shifts behind the scenes at CRD&CO. to sourcing beautiful furnishings for clients and embracing all things Americana, May brought a sense of peace, creativity, and the perfect start to summer.
Project Spotlight: The Primary Bathroom at #CRDCOxItWasMeantToBe
Layered with checkerboard tile, handcrafted zellige, warm mixed metals, and timeless details, the primary bathroom at Project: It Was Meant to Be was designed to feel like a calming escape from everyday life.
What to Prioritize First When Designing a Family Home
Before layouts, furnishings, and final styling, the inspiration phase is one of the most important parts of designing a family home. At CRD&CO., this early stage creates clarity, connection, and the foundation for a thoughtfully curated space.
Summer Entertaining: What we’re eyeing, how we prep, and all the fun!
A look into my favorite summer entertaining finds, how I prep for hosting, and the intentional details that make gatherings feel effortless, elevated, and full of meaningful moments.
The Project That Was Meant To Be: A Story of Perfect Timing & Thoughtful Design
A full home renovation and addition that came together through perfect timing and meaningful connection. This thoughtfully curated project blends traditional design with bold, expressive details—creating a home that reflects a new chapter for a dynamic, all-female household.
Everything I Loved: April Edition
A look back at everything I loved in April—from meaningful family moments and travel to behind-the-scenes design projects and a busy season in business. A personal and professional recap as we transition into late spring and begin welcoming new design projects.
The Finishing Layers That Make a Home Feel Complete
A home isn’t complete when the furniture arrives. It’s the finishing layers, textures, lighting, and personal details that bring everything together and make a space feel elevated, intentional, and truly yours.
What Clients Are Always Surprised By During the Design Process
Discover what clients are most surprised by during the interior design process - from sourcing and procurement to timelines and finishing details. Learn what truly goes into creating a thoughtfully curated, elevated home that works beautifully for real life.
Designing for Real Life
Designing for real life means creating a home that supports the rhythm of everyday moments. From thoughtful storage solutions to elevated, calming spaces, CRD&CO. focuses on designing beautiful, functional homes that help busy families feel organized, at ease, and truly at home.
5 Small Design Changes That Make Your Home Feel Brand New
Small design changes can completely transform how your home feels. From updating seasonal family photos to restyling bookshelves and simplifying everyday spaces, these easy, thoughtful updates bring a fresh perspective and renewed energy without a full redesign.
Everything I Loved: March Edition
March is the in-between season where winter slows and spring momentum begins. From packed schedules to stunning client presentations, discover how the beautifully chaotic month sets the stage for upcoming family room and bedroom transformations at CRD&CO.
Out With the Heavy, In With the Light
As the seasons change, our homes naturally shift with them. Here’s how we move away from winter’s heavier layers and welcome a lighter, fresher feeling for spring.

