Inspired Design from Starbucks

If you read my blog you know how much I love Starbucks coffee, but I also love their interiors and learn from the designs of their coffeehouses. Their designer's mission is to create a spectacular Starbucks café experience that is steeped in the local culture and designed to reflect the unique characteristics of each neighborhood. 

Here are some design ideas I learned from their shops...

Many homes, especially newer ones have popcorn ceilings. It can be expensive and messy to scrape and remove the popcorn texture. Instead, consider covering the ceiling with wood--it will give the room instant warmth. 

If you're dealing with a ceiling that has lots of unattractive things in it (like air conditioning, attic fans, vents, etc.) paint it all a saturated dark color. All those things will almost disappear into the darkness.

Simple pendant lighting can instantly update a room especially when used in multiplies. The good news is it's cheap and easy to put together yourself with simple cylinder lampshades from Target or Ikea.

Black frames and white mats make almost any picture look great. Print some photos or cut up a book with great pictures and frame in ready-to-go frames.

Take your favorite photos to Staples and ask for giant blow-up engineer prints. Using wallpaper paste, glue them to a wall instead of wallpaper for cheap and unique wall covering.

Made of wicker, fabric or wire, large baskets not only look great but keep anything more organized from toys, shoes, bottles or magazines.

Solar shades are mostly used in commercial spaces they work just as well at home to block out glare and hot sun while allowing you to see outdoors.

So, next time you're getting a frappuccino don't ignore the beautiful interiors!