unusual-designs

What You Need to Know About Interior Shutters in 2025

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 15:07:58 GMT

Interior shutters are and always have been a popular window covering. They add instant sophistication to your home and will highlight your windows with charm. Today, our team at Unusual Designs is delighted to discuss what to consider when investing in plantation shutters, introduce our selection, and explain how our professional designers can assist.

What to Consider When Investing in Plantation Shutters

While there are many factors to consider when investing in plantation shutters, here are a few of the most important.

Louver Size can change the entire look of your plantation shutters. The basic rule of thumb is the wider the louver, the more casual the look, and the thinner the louver, the sleeker the design. Louver size also affects light and privacy. Wide louvers let in more natural light but compromise your privacy, while thin louvers do the opposite.

Cleaning is always a priority. Plantation shutters are easy to maintain with frequent dusting and mild soap and water.

Home Value is another essential factor. Plantation shutters are considered a permanent fixture in the home. If you plan to sell in the near future or down the road, plantation shutters can add value during the appraisal.

Explore Our Selection of Hunter Douglas Shutters

Unusual Designs is proud to carry three different styles of Plantation Shutters.

NewStyle ^® Composite Shutters are perfect for high-traffic spaces. They offer the same genuine aesthetic of genuine wood but with extended durability. You can also select from 8 different color choices. They are perfect for both horizontal and vertical window types.

Palm Beach ^™ Polysatin ^™ Vinyl Shutters are ideal for hot and humid climates such as Newport News. These innovative shutters will stand up to intense sunlight and moisture, making them a perfect fit for bathrooms, kitchens, and spas. You can select from 3 soft white color hues. This collection is also our only motorized shutter option. Ask us about adding PowerView® Automation to your new shutters.

Heritance ^® Wood Shutters offer a classic, timeless look. They are crafted from 100% genuine wood and will transform any room with complete sophistication. Real wood shutters are a superior choice for bedrooms, dining, and living rooms where moisture is not an issue.

Our Design Team Can Help You Style Your Plantation Shutters

When it comes to styling your plantation shutters, we recommend booking a consultation with one of our professional designers. They can suggest various style ideas, such as layering with other window treatments, such as roller shades, drapery, and more. Our designers have years of experience working with customers to select shutter type and color, and are eager to listen to your ideas. They will come to your home and work with you side by side.

Visit Our Newport News Window Treatment Store for Interior Shutters

Unusual Designs has served Newport News and its neighboring communities for over two decades. Our talented team knows our products and services inside and out and is standing by to help you discover how plantation shutters will transform your home with style and function. Request a consultation , give us a call at (757) 595-5131, or stop by our showroom. We proudly serve Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, and Gloucester, Virginia.

Window Treatments for New Constructions

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 15:03:53 GMT

Investing in a new build, whether residential or commercial, is an exciting time, as it allows you to customize your design from start to finish. While there are many factors to consider, selecting window treatments is one of the most essential because it significantly influences how people interact with the space, including lighting, privacy, design, and more.

At Unusual Designs, we are excited to discuss why window treatments matter in new construction, what to consider when selecting new window treatments, and how our interior design consultation can provide you with professional guidance.

Why Window Treatments Matter in New Constructions

Elevated Aesthetics

Window treatments will enhance your space with style and tie the complete look together. This is easy to accomplish with hundreds of fabric styles, colors, textures, and opacities to choose from. Easily blend custom window treatments with varying color schemes and interior design styles.

Energy Efficiency

Every dollar counts when designing a new home, business, or office building, so it’s worth investing in window treatments that can help reduce your monthly energy consumption. Whether you’ll be living at the property or selling it, energy-efficient window treatments are a huge benefit.

Light and Privacy

In every property, residential and commercial, there’s a time for light and there’s a time for privacy, so you need window treatments that offer the best of both. Custom window treatments can prevent bothersome glare and protect the space from harmful UV rays. They can enhance natural light, provide excellent view-through, and even offer perfect privacy with little to no lighting gaps.

Work with Design Professionals to Find the Right Window Treatments

Beyond all the functional benefits of window treatments for new construction, style is the most important consideration. At Unusual Designs, we specialize in Hunter Douglas window treatments, offering blinds, shades, shutters, drapery, and motorized window treatments. When you visit our Newport News window treatment store, our design professionals help you find the right window treatments for your space, interior design style, and functional needs. Get hands-on and see how they function. Look at the colors and textures up close. Most importantly, ask all the questions you want – we’re here to help!

Our Interior Design Consultations are for everyone, whether you know what you’re looking for or aren’t sure where to start. We offer expert advice on which window treatments are the best solution for your new construction. Our design professionals have years of experience and will listen to your vision for your new construction. They will come to your space and assess it, helping you discover how not only our window treatments, but all our other interior design products that will transform your space.

Contact Us for Custom Window Treatments Near Newport News, VA

As a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery dealer, Unusual Designs has served Newport News and the surrounding communities for over twenty years. When you’re ready to enhance your new construction with state-of-the-art window treatments, request a consultation , give us a call at (757) 595-5131, or stop by our window treatment store in Newport News. We proudly serve Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, and Gloucester, Virginia.

Room-By-Room Interior Design: Dining Rooms

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 16:05:37 GMT

Now is a perfect time to refresh your home’s interior and get ready for the holidays. If you plan to entertain this season, redesigning your dining room is a great place to start. One design motif gaining momentum is durable design that adapts to meet a homeowner’s needs at any stage of their life. Today, our team at Unusual Designs in Newport News is sharing what durable design means, a few ideas tailored to dining rooms, and how our professional consultation services can help.

What Is Durable Design?

Durable design celebrates longevity—spaces planned with furniture, surfaces, and flooring that stand up to everyday gatherings and special-occasion hosting—adaptable to how a home changes throughout its lifespan. These changes can include:

Comfort & safety: Solid chairs with good back support keep family and guests comfortable and steady—especially important in busy dining rooms where spills and bumps can happen.
Adaptable furnishings: Dining room tables with leaves for added seating and storage furniture that can act as a serving surface are great additions that adapt to the needs of the room.
Sustainability: Choosing environmentally friendly materials gives you a beautiful space and peace of mind that you’re doing your part for the planet.

Durable Interior Design Ideas for Dining Rooms

Reclaimed wood: A timeless, sturdy choice for tables, sideboards, walls, floors, and even ceilings. Its natural patina hides wear, and every board adds character.
Recycled glass: Consider recycled-glass accessories or dinnerware for a unique, sustainable statement that’s easy to wipe clean.
Natural fibers: Cotton, linen, and wool are renewable, breathable, and easy to maintain. Use them for curtains, chair covers, and table linens for a soft, tactile finish.
Window treatments from natural materials: Bring in warmth and texture with fibers that complement an earthy, durable aesthetic.

The Final Touch: Dining Room Shades and Blinds

No dining room design is complete without window treatments that support your look and your lifestyle.

Hunter Douglas woven shades a re made from bamboo, wood, reeds, and grasses , these shades add an organic, earthy vibe that suits durable dining rooms and softens acoustics during lively dinners.
Hunter Douglas Heritance® Wood Shutters feature a rich grain that elevates your space and offers excellent light control. Choose from a wide range of stain hues to complement your palette and durable finishes.

Professional Interior Design Consultation for a Stunning Dining Room

Redesigni ng your dining room can be both exhilarating and challenging. Our professional interior design consultation services make it easier—and more fun. We offer:

Furniture layout that optimizes flow for everyday meals and holiday gatherings
Color palette creation to harmonize woods, textiles, and finishes
Furniture purchase assistance and custom fabrics & window treatments
Access to trusted professional contractors to bring the plan to life

Our designers listen first—then elevate your vision with practical, durable solutions.

Contact Us for Interior Design Solutions Near Newport News, VA

As a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery dealer, Unusual Designs has served Newport News and surrounding communities for over twenty years.

When you’re ready to design the dining room of your dreams, request a consultation, give us a call at (757) 595-5131 or stop by our showroom.

We proudly serve Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, and Gloucester, Virginia.

The Perfect Sunroom Window Treatments for Fall

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:09:44 GMT

A cozy Virginia autumn is the perfect time to nestle in your sunroom with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and a fresh slice of pumpkin pie. Fall is the season to enjoy the beauty of your favorite spot in your home—and a completely new design.

Today, our team at Unusual Designs is delighted to share our selection of sunroom window treatments from Hunter Douglas perfect for the fall—and all year long. Work with our design team to make your next project sparkle with dynamic design.

Make the Project Come Alive with Our Sunroom Window Coverings

Autumn in Virginia brings a golden glow that makes your sunroom the perfect retreat—whether you’re sipping coffee in the morning chill or winding down with a warm mug of cider in the evening. But with the beauty of fall also comes shifting sunlight, chilly drafts, and the need to protect your space year-round. That’s why our selection of Hunter Douglas window treatments is designed to complement your style and make your sunroom as comfortable as it is beautiful.

Hunter Douglas Designer Solar Shades are a smart choice for a space that recieves the autumn afternoon sun. While the light is undeniably beautiful, it can create unwanted glares and fade your furniture. Hunter Douglas solar shades feature a streamlined roller style that blocks UV rays while still preserving the view of your stunning fall landscape. And when the sun softens, they roll up effortlessly, leaving you free to soak in every amber leaf and golden horizon.

For homeowners who want to bring the natural beauty of autumn inside, Woven Shades are a timeless option. Crafted from grasses, reeds, bamboo, and wood, these shades echo the season’s textures and tones, blending seamlessly into an autumn-inspired design. Pair them with a Top-Down/Bottom-Up application to create a variety of lighting scenarios—whether you want filtered sunlight for a cozy afternoon read or more open views for entertaining guests against the backdrop of colorful foliage.

When crisp fall mornings give way to cooler evenings, Duette® Cellular Shades offer both elegance and energy efficiency. Their unique honeycomb design traps air close to the window in hidden pockets, creating an insulating layer that helps regulate temperatures in your sunroom all year long, pairing beautifully with your autumn décor.

Consult Us for Sunroom Design Ideas

Redesigning your sunroom for the autumn season is an exciting task, and our i nterior design consultation services can make the project even more exciting. Our talented designers can offer a range of traditional and trendy decorating ideas and work closely with you to create the sunroom of your dreams. We can suggest a color scheme, furniture placement, and custom fabric and window treatments. With guidance from our design team, you can craft a sunroom that sparkles with personality, style, and functionality—making fall afternoons, winter mornings, and summer sunsets equally delightful.

Contact Us for Sunroom Window Treatments

As a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery, we have served Newport News and its surrounding communities for over twenty years. Our talented team is excited to help you spruce up your sunroom for autumn with gorgeous Hunter Douglas window treatments and full-service interior design.

Please request a consultation today or stop by our showroom, and one of our friendly staff members will contact you. We proudly serve Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, and Gloucester, Virginia.

Why Should I Choose Commercial Window Blinds and Shades?

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 16:20:18 GMT

When you’re a business owner, taking pride in your commercial space brings satisfaction to you, your team members, and most importantly, your loyal customers or clients. One of the best ways to upgrade your property and the customer experience is with quality commercial window blinds and shades.

Here at Unusual Designs, our team is ready to discuss the benefits of commercial window treatments, how adding automation seals the deal, and where you can buy window shades near Newport News, VA.

The Benefits of Investing in Commercial Window Blinds and Shades

Here are a few benefits you can enjoy as a business owner when you invest in commercial window blinds and shades:

Customer and Employee Comfort

One of the most vital factors in operating a successful business is customer and team member comfort. Commercial window blinds and shades help to create a comfortable shopping and working experience. Nothing is worse for customers than entering an establishment with untreated windows.

Open windows can let in too many UV rays, making interactions or activities uncomfortable. Customers may find it challenging to view products or interact with your team members with excessive sun glare. Excessive glare also makes it difficult for the staff to complete computing tasks.

Branding Your Business

Commercial window treatments can help ensure your business's identity. For example, if your company promotes a traditional product or service, select a window treatment that echoes that appeal. Wood blinds are an excellent choice to uphold a traditional style.

On the other hand, if your establishment is more modern, roller shades are an excellent choice. Whatever type of business you own, commercial blinds and shades create a storefront that reflects its personality.

Cost Efficiency

Investing in blinds and shades has long-term effects that outweigh the up-front costs. Your business will be more productive if your customers and staff are comfortable. Commercial window treatments will also reduce your monthly energy bill.

It’s a return-on-investment (ROI) win/win situation.

Add Automation to Your Commercial Window Blinds and Shades

Adding automation to your commercial window blinds and shades offers a world of convenience, especially for team members who are busy attending to customers, like in a restaurant or café. They no longer need to manually adjust the window treatments, giving them more time to meet consumers' needs. Automation also cleans up the look of your windows by eliminating the need for unsightly cords and wands.

Another perk of automation is that it helps with property security. You can schedule your blinds and shades to open and close at certain times of the day, so when your business is vacant, you can have peace of mind that it’s secure.

Where Can I Buy Window Shades Near Newport News, VA, for My Business?

You can find commercial window shades near Newport News, VA, at Unusual Designs, one of Virginia's leading commercial window distributors. As a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery, we have served our surrounding communities for over two decades with state-of-the-art commercial window treatments and more.

We’re eager to assist you in selecting the best blinds and shades that work for your business. When you’re ready to get your commercial project going, request a consultation online or call (757) 595-5131 . Unusual Designs proudly serves Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, Gloucester, and our surrounding areas.

Difference in Constructing a Bathroom Addition vs. Remodeling

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 16:37:28 GMT

As a proud Virginia homeowner, one of the best things you can do is invest in your bathrooms. Whether it's a primary or guest bath, upgrading, redesigning, or remodeling is well worth the time, cost, and effort.

Our Unusual Designs team is delighted to discuss the differences between bathroom design and remodeling, offer a few design ideas, and provide some tips on adding a bathroom addition.

Bathroom Design and Remodeling vs. a Bathroom Addition

The difference between bathroom design and remodeling versus a bathroom addition is actually quite simple. Bathroom design focuses on the aesthetics of the space to make it more visually appealing. It involves interior design products such as paint, wallpaper, and new fixtures.

On the contrary, investing in a bathroom addition focuses on the entire layout, such as structural changes. It can range from expanding the space to adding storage closets, installing new cabinetry, adding a new sink, bathtub, and shower, or even adding square footage to the room.

Our Favorite Bathroom Remodeling and Design Ideas

If you’re ready to tackle a bathroom remodeling, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Follow a Monochrome Style

Using shades of black and white is an excellent way to give a bathroom a distinct personality. Experiment with a black and white tile floor for a stunning foundation. If your bathroom is large, laying them on the diagonal can make the area seem even larger.

Monochromatic design offers a clean, crisp look, perfect for a guest bathroom where you want to impress your visitors.

Focus on Unique Pieces

If you redesign a smaller bathroom, creating a focal point can help distract from the space's size. Consider an interesting piece of original art, a freestanding tub, or an eccentric chandelier for a punch of focal power.

Express Your Personality

When redesigning a primary bath, it's imperative to express yourself. Primary baths are places to unwind and gather your mind after a hectic day of work or responsibilities. Use your favorite paint color as a starting point, and the rest of your ideas will flow naturally.

Go Vintage

Vintage design is a popular motif that reflects the nuances of former design periods. A clawfoot tub and a lively, patterned wallpaper can set the design in motion. Go on the hunt for a vintage mirror to use above your vanity.

What to Include When Designing a Bathroom Addition

Adding more space to your bathroom is one of the best ways to add value to your home. Creating more room brings great satisfaction, whether you have a small or large bathroom. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Choose Smart Storage Solutions

Storage is always an issue in bathrooms. To keep towels, cleaning items, and personal products out of sight and for an uncluttered look, consider adding a closet to make all the difference.

Install Modern Windows for Well-Being

Natural light is good for the soul, especially in a bathroom where you want to regroup after a long day. Not to mention that opening a window helps ventilate the area, which is ideal when cleaning.

Breaking out a wall to install a modern bathroom window is well worth the investment for aesthetics and health.

Ditch the Shower Curtain

While shower curtains add a touch of color and pattern, they also collect mildew and often hang awkwardly. For a uniform and clean look, it's wise to install a solid bath door. A glass bathroom door can also make the space more modern and open.

Find Bathroom Design and Remodeling Ideas Near Newport News, VA

Unusual Designs has everything you need to redesign or remodel your bathroom. We’re a Hunter Douglas Gallery that has served Newport News, VA, and its neighboring communities for over twenty years. Our talented staff is eager to demonstrate our interior design products, including flooring, window treatments, wallpaper, and more!

When you’re ready to complete the project, request a consultation online or call (757) 595-5131 . Unusual Designs is honored to serve Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, and Gloucester, VA.

What Is an In-Law Suite? Remodeling and Design Tips

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 16:45:56 GMT

Our families come in all different sorts of shapes and sizes—and we seek to live in spaces that enhance the quality of the time we spend with our loved ones. Many modern homeowners are seeking more flexible living arrangements that can evolve with the needs of their loved ones—large suites with guest bathrooms, guest houses, multi-residents homes with apartments or Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU), duplex homes, mother-in-law suites, and many more styles.

As family living arrangements change and the people in your life begin to age, creating a unique space in the home takes more than just setting up door, a bed, a couch, and a television. That’s where Unusual Designs can assist. Today, we are delighted to discuss tips for designing an accessory dwelling unit.

What Is a Mother-in-Law Suite?

A mother-in-law suite, often called a “granny suite,” is a space created directly within the home, such as a spare bedroom or finished basement, or areas detached from the house, like an extra guesthouse or tiny home. Many mother-in-law suites offer expera space like kitchenettes and living spaces that flex between your residence and theirs, giving your loved one a place to connect with the rest of the family. For a person who has raised a family and now finds themselves alone, a human or animal presence is essential for their overall well-being. Mother-in-law suites can allow you to experience co-generational living with flexible spaces that allow all parties to enjoy privacy and time alone when they need it.

What Is An Accessory Dwelling Unit?

An accessory dwelling unit is the official term for additional dwelling spaces attached or detached from the home. These spaces may have their own address and are totally separate apartments that may or may not connect to the rest of the home. Typically, face limitations of size compared to the main residence and may face other legal requirements in your county or city.

Tips for Designing an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) In Your Space

Here are some tips to consider when designing this space.

Safety is Essential

Safety is first and foremost; keeping space safe and according to code is the top priority. When thinking about how to plan a space for many chaning uses, such as the use of a loved one with health issues, that may dictate how you will potentially use the space in the future. Building in ramps, installing wide doorways, and adding grab bars that blend in with the space can be great add-ons for those aging in place.

Durable performance carpet is an excellent choice when it comes to flooring as it prevents and breaks falls far better than hardwood or tile. Its more compact pile also makes it easier to clean!

Personalize The Space

If you share interior space with a loved one, ideally that space should reflect both your and their personalities. Private spaces with more personal surroundings are also at the top of the list in a remodel. Unusual Designs is home to a complete line of accessories, carpet, furniture, and flooring that will create a home away from home for your guests or loved ones.

For an in-law suite, fill the space with your loved one’s favorite personal belongings. Family photos go a long way in creating a sense of connection.

Design for the Future

If we’ve said it before, we’ll say it again: think about how you (or a future buyer) will use this space over time. Durable floors and high-quality finishes will ensure that the space will hold up longer. Don’t forget to give it some of your personality with design, too. This space should receive the same detail and care as your home with an eye toward how the space may be used in the future.

Wallpaper can also enhance the mood of any ADU. Unusual Designs offers thousands of patterns, each with unique aesthetic attributes.

Visit Us for Interior Design Solutions

Unusual Designs Inc. is your one-stop shop for all interior design needs, including window coverings from Hunter Douglas, furniture, accessories, fabric, and wallpaper from stellar brands. Our team of experts is well-versed in all our products and services and is eager to assist you in creating the perfect in-law suite or apartment space.

Contact us today to get your project started. We proudly serve Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, and Gloucester, Virginia.

Add Blinds for a Beachy Room near Newport News, VA

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 16:55:48 GMT

One of many perks of living in a coastal region like Virginia is taking in all the gorgeous waterside views. The sun’s intensity comes with the water, making window treatments necessary for superior design and better function in your room.

Today, our Unusual Designs team discusses two different styles of maritime design popular in many coastal homes or beach houses and introduces a selection of blinds to complement each motif.

Understanding Different Styles of Maritime Design

So, what is maritime design? Maritime design celebrates the characteristics of the ocean and waterside life. One of the dominating factors is a gentle palette that reflects coastal hues, along with accessories that capture the essence of the sea and coastal life.

You might think that beachy and coastal motifs are the same thing, but they do celebrate their subtle differences.

Beachy vs Coastal

Beachy design offers a more casual look than coastal. Furniture can be artfully mismatched and painted in bright colors. Beachy vibes celebrates comfort so those tired beach-combers can find respite after a long day in the sun. Overstuffed pieces but nothing overly fancy. Light neutral whites, pale yellows, greens and hints of coral or baby blue so your guests can relax even in a wet swimsuit.
Coastal design offers a more classic and sophisticated, polished look that reflects a simple life on the water. Furniture and accessories in grays, greens, and sandy beiges with pops of red or blue, more traditional than the splashy décor in a beachy design.

For both types of motifs, window treatments play an essential role. Read on to discover some options.

Try These Blinds for A Beachy Room

Beach homes typically have large expanses of windows, making vertical blinds a perfect fit. Their vertical alignment heightens the space and makes your beachy room appear larger. Their lightweight fabric offers a fresh, casual look, echoing your beachy design's “come in and relax” aesthetic.

We offer our vertical blinds in various styles and stunning neutral hues, making them a perfect backdrop for the rest of your beachy décor or open for lovely views out. On days when the sun is not so intense, the blinds can be drawn back to either side, allowing for captivating views of the watery scenery.

Add These Blinds for A Coastal Design

Since coastal interiors often feature natural materials, faux wood blinds are an excellent option. Our faux wood blinds withstand the sun’s intensity and resist warping and fading. They offer the classic look of real wood but with optimized durability. You can enjoy views of the water and sand without raising the entire blind, and still be protected from harsh UV rays.

We offer these stunning blinds in various paints and stains, so you will surely find one that brings your room to life. We can fit our faux woods to various window and door styles for a long-lasting look.

Shop Our Store for Beach Room Blinds Near Newport News, VA

Unusual Designs Inc. has everything you need to make your maritime design pop with personality. We are home to many interior design products, including furniture, accessories, fabrics, and window treatments. Our talented staff are experts in all our products and services and stand by to assist you. Contact us today to get your project started. We proudly serve Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, and Gloucester, Virginia.

Room-By-Room Interior Design: Bedrooms

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 17:04:39 GMT

Many Virginia homeowners and contractors believe that the warmer months are the best time to focus on certain interior design projects. One of the last spaces homeowners think about upgrading, sadly, is their bedroom—even though it’s one of the spaces that we spend the most of our time.

Today, our team at Unusual Designs in Newport News is eager to share some tips for different bedroom designs, window treatments that complement each bedroom style, and how our professional design services can assist you in creating the bedroom oasis to lead to sweeter dreams.

Tips for Different Bedroom Interior Styles

Minimalist Oasis: Many current design trends go for a sleek and minimal look—but this streamlined style is not as easy to achieve as one might think! Start with cohesive food floors or soft and neutral carpets and color the walls in a modern neutral shade, then go for low-sling bed frames and furniture in neutral tones or light wood. Accessorize mindfully with one accent color or complementary neutrals in exciting textures to get that high-end hotel or spa-like vibe.
Rustic Retreat: A wooden headboard is a great way to establish the first impression of a rustic bedroom. You can adorn the bed with plenty of textured pillows and throws for a warm, relaxed look. Consider using stone or tile around your fireplace or floor for an organic depth. Any natural element enhances the rustic look. Vintage accessories are an excellent way to pull the whole look together.
Maximalist Marvel: In the world of maximal design, more is more, and what better place to explore this style than your bedroom? Consider embracing bold wallpaper and mix-and-match patterns for a strong, contrasting look. Create a gallery wall of old photos and art with various frames and themes. The maximal design allows you to use all your favorite treasures for a warm, complex aesthetic.
Updated Traditional: Four-poster beds are popular in traditional bedrooms. They offer a stately, timeless look and make your bed your room’s focal point. Consider using floral patterns for wallpaper and bedding. Antique furniture is also a common element in traditional design. Now’s the time to take Grandma’s old rocking chair and have it reupholstered with a modern and funky fabric for an additional feature element.

The Final Touch: Bedroom Shades and Blinds

No bedroom design is complete without window treatments that complement your chosen style. Now that you have some inspiration for redesigning your bedroom, let’s explore a few bedroom shade and blinds ideas for the final touch.

Cellular shades are the ideal choice for almost any space—but they perform especially well in modern minimal designs. Their light-blocking and insulating power can’t be beat—plus, they muffle sound and heat transfer with hidden layers of honeycomb-shaped cells.
Woven Shades are a perfect choice for a bedroom design. They are made from grasses, reeds, bamboo, and wood, celebrating a natural theme. You can select from a wide range of textured fabrics that will be the final touch to your rustic bedroom.
Drapery is well-suited for maximal bedrooms where you want a rich, luxurious window treatment. We are proud to carry Carol Fabric Custom Drapes, which offers a robust selection of fabrics ranging from lively prints to subtle, neutral patterns. Plus, they pair well with other foundational window treatments.
Shutters are the way for a traditional design where an architectural appeal is essential. You can pair it with drapery for a stunning layered look. Real wood is the best material for bedroom shutters—but for kid’s rooms, we recommend hybrid or composite materials for their added durability.

Professional Interior Design Consultation for a Stunning Bedroom

Taking on a new design project can be overwhelming. You have to consider so many things, like furniture placement, color palette, and more. Our professional design services will alleviate the stress. You can rely on our grounded and experienced designers to guide the process from beginning to end. They will work with your ideas to make the whole project come alive.

Contact us for Bedroom Blinds and Bedroom Shades Near Newport, VA

As a state-of-the-art interior design hub, Unusual Designs has served Newport News and its surrounding communities with custom Hunter Douglas window treatments and design services for years. Our priority is to help you make your dream home—or commercial space—a reality.

When you are ready to give your bedroom some TLC with a new design motif, request a consultation today. We proudly serve Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, and Gloucester, Virginia.

Room-By-Room Interior Design: Bathrooms

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 17:56:29 GMT

Bathrooms are among the most important rooms in your home. For homeowners, the perfect bathroom should feel like a luxury hotel or spa. For guests and family, they should be able to achieve the privacy they need to refresh themselves while visiting your home.

Redesigning your bathroom will add value and better performance to your home. Today, our team at Unusual Designs is delighted to share bathroom interior design ideas, including furniture, and window treatment ideas for a whole-space bathroom redesign.

Bathroom Interior Design Ideas

Match Your Sink Area to Your Design Style: If you have an older home, preserving the integrity of its era is always a good idea. For a smaller bathroom, consider a vintage pedestal sink. If the original is too damaged, you can always find a replacement at an antique or salvage store. If you have a larger bathroom, you can repurpose a vintage or antique dresser as a vanity. You must ensure the wood is sealed and the top is protected with a countertop or tiles.

Large Print Wallpaper: You might think that using a large-printed wallpaper in the smallest room in your home might make the space look even smaller. But that is not necessarily the case. Large prints can make the room feel more expansive and breathe life into it.

Accent Hardware: Your hardware and fixtures cap off the look and feel of your bathroom space. Many interior designers refer to powder rooms and bathrooms as “little jewel boxes” because they can withstand much more flash and style than other rooms in the home.

Master Bathroom Furniture for a Whole Space Design

If your bathroom is large enough, the right furniture additions can make the space even more usable.

A corner chaise lounge offers a space to relax after a bath or shower. You can choose a lively print so it becomes the space's focal point.
Dressing tables provide a space for people to ready themselves for the day. They allow your regular sink vanity to be free of clutter and personal products.
Bathroom storage is essential. To store towels and robes, a repurposed vintage cabinet will do the trick. You can also line a vintage piece or new built-in with wallpaper for a refreshing, unique look.

Bathroom Blinds for Windows

No design project is complete without high-quality window treatments. Window blinds have been and always will be a classic window covering. Unusual Designs is proud to carry two well-suited styles for a bathroom space.

Metal blinds offer a sleek, modern appeal. You can select from a rainbow of colors, ranging from bright, bold hues to soft pastels and neutral earth-bound hues. Metal blinds are perfect for a bathroom as they withstand humidity and moisture. They are easy to clean with mild soap and water, so you are certain that mildew will not build up.

Vertical blinds are an excellent choice if your bathroom has large expanses of glass. We offer our vertical blinds in smooth metal finishes and high-quality fabrics. They will add height to your windows, making your bathroom appear larger.

Another excellent addition to bathroom windows is Hunter Douglas Palm Beach™ Polysatin™ Vinyl Shutters! These interior shutters are moisture and water resistant and will not warp, mold, or crack. They can fit into a variety of spaces, including angles windows!

Visit Us for Bathroom Design Ideas Near Newport News, VA

Unusual Designs is a your one-stop shop for high-quality interior design products. We’re also a Hunter Douglas dealer serving Newport News and its neighboring community.

Our professional team is well-versed in all our products and services and stands by to assist you in designing the home of your dreams.

When you are ready to redesign your bathroom, request a consultation, and one of our dedicated staff members will reach out. We proudly serve Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, and Gloucester, Virginia.

Room-By-Room Interior Design: Offices

Thu, 29 May 2025 19:25:54 GMT

Whether you work from a home office or are seeking to design a commercial office space, functional and thoughtful design is the way to make your space feel welcoming and more productive.

Today, our team at Unusual Designs discusses the benefits of working with a professional interior designer. When you sign up for an interior design consultation with one of our experts, we can help with the details of your office design and offer inspiration for creating an effective space at home or for commercial offices.

Why Work with an Interior Designer

Taking on a design project is not easy; you have to make a multitude of decisions and select from a vast array of products and services to create one cohesive space. However, our talented interior design team is here to make the process enjoyable rather than stressful.

Our designers work with you to create a palette of fabric, flooring, furnishing, and accessory goals. A designer will also help with a practical office layout and a color scheme that reflects your design taste.

Design Tips for an Efficient Home Office

Since the pandemic, home offices have become increasingly popular, with more companies allowing employees to work from home. Here are some ideas for creating a home office that works for you.

Privacy is a must, especially if your job requires handling confidential information. Privacy is also essential if you meet with clients face-to-face or have virtual meetings where noise from the rest of the house can be a distraction.
Professionalism is also a key element. The backdrop behind your desk should be well lit and include a professional motif, like a curated bookcase display with a tasteful piece of art.
Comfort is one of the most critical components of work. If you work from an uncomfortable chair unsuited to your body, your back and neck can develop health issues. An ergonomic desk and chair are a necessity.
Light Control: Taking the strain off your eyes with proper lighting is also an excellent idea. Natural light with custom window coverings, appropriate task lighting, and overhead lighting all help create mood and build a design.

Inspo for a Collaborative Commercial Office

Versatile Furniture: is a must. Furniture that you can rearrange for various productivity will enhance collaboration. Tables that you can easily move will allow employees to meet flexibly and share ideas on specific projects.
Effective Individual Spaces: are also essential since each team member has unique tasks. Ensuring your employees have state-of-the-art ergonomic Furniture shows your commitment to their well-being, thus increasing their productivity.
Reflect Your Company’s Brand: When customers enter your space, they want to know where they are and what your business is all about. Hanging local art that celebrates your company’s product and mission can combine the whole look.

Contact Us for Interior Design Consultations Near Newport News, VA

Unusual Designs is a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery offering interior design solutions to the Newport News community for over 25 years. Our professional interior designers are eager to help you redesign a single room or entire home with our state-of-the-art interior design products.

When you are ready to redesign your home or commercial office, request a consultation , and we will reach out. We are honored to serve Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, and Gloucester, Virginia.

Room-By-Room Interior Design: Kitchen

Mon, 12 May 2025 19:34:31 GMT

For many modern homeowners, their kitchen is the heart of the home—a place where we prepare meals and make memories. In 2025, kitchens are evolving. Many current kitchens are being transformed with cutting-edge technology and materials with sustainability in mind, all while creating a durable, welcoming hub for people to gather. At Unusual Designs, we’re here to help you reimagine your kitchen with forward-thinking trends and trusted solutions like Hunter Douglas window treatments.

The adage goes, “Good food and a warm kitchen make a house a home.” So why not redesign the heart of your home with assistance from Unusual Designs? Today, we are delighted to share some inspiration for designing a durable kitchen that will serve your family for years.

Durable Design Ideas for the Kitchen

It All Starts with Cabinetry: Durable cabinetry is essential to tolerate the wear and tear of cooking. If you have a kitchen that appears dark, paint your cabinetry in a white or light neutral tone, and add a pop of color to your island or lower cabinetry for a modern dual tone look.
Countertops Set the Stage: High-quality countertops are a must for upgrading the look of your kitchen design. You can select from a wide variety of materials—popular options include marble, butcher block, granite, quartz, quartzite, and porcelain. Many man-made or manufactured materials offer the same look as a high-end surface without the extra cost.

Hunter Douglas Window Treatments for the Kitchen

Kitchens demand window coverings that withstand heat, moisture, and daily wear while enhancing aesthetics.

Palm Beach™ Polysatin™ Vinyl Shutters: Moisture-resistant vinyl with adjustable louvers for privacy and light control.
EverWood® Faux Wood Blinds: Sleek, humidity-proof designs with the look of real stained or painted wood, ideal above sinks.
Duette® Cellular Shades: These energy-efficient shades can reduce HVAC costs, pairing sustainability with style.

Our Interior Design Services and Products

Our designers are here to help merge your vision with the highest quality products. Our professional interior designers have years of experience and expertise and can easily guide you collaboratively through the design process.

Wallpaper has always been a popular design element. We carry scores of different wallpaper styles and patterns, so choose this trending wall covering to accent or enliven your space.

Flooring is an essential component of any design project, especially your kitchen. We recommend that your selection be suitable for high-traffic areas.

Paint is an important part of any interior design. We recommend you choose several samples on the walls in your space before committing to a color. Remember to select hues that reflect your overall design and, most importantly, formulas that clean up easily in the kitchen.

Accessories are like icing on the cake. Unusual Designs carries a wide variety of home goods to complete the look of your kitchen.

Contact Us for Kitchen Design Ideas Near Newport News, VA

As a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery, we bring you premium window treatments alongside a curated selection of interior design products. Serving Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, Gloucester, and beyond, we’re here to transform your kitchen into a space that’s as functional as it is visionary.

Request a consultation today or visit our showroom to speak with a team member and learn more about how we can help you with your next interior design project!

Room-By-Room Interior Design: Living Rooms

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 19:43:21 GMT

After a long winter indoors, spring invites us to rethink how our homes are adapted to our way of living—and no space is evolving faster than the living room. Once a formal area reserved for guests, today’s living rooms are transforming into versatile hubs that blend family comfort, entertainment, and open-concept flow.

At Unusual Designs, we’re passionate about helping you embrace a flexible interior design, whether you’re craving a cozy family room for game nights, a sleek media room with immersive tech, or a fluid open layout that connects cooking, dining, and lounging. We specialize in curating furnishings and automated solutions that align with your lifestyle, ensuring your living room space is reimagined.

Ready to turn your living room into a dynamic space that grows with your needs? Let’s collaborate to blend innovation, comfort, and style—because modern living deserves a room that does it all.

The Benefits of Investing in a Professional Interior Designer

Stress Reduction: Redesigning a living room is no easy task. It takes planning, vision, and organization. Investing in a professional interior designer can alleviate the stress of such a complicated process and turn it into a collaborative and imaginative experience.

Resourceful: It takes a village to redesign a single room or an entire home. Our interior designers have excellent contacts and relationships with local contractors, so you won’t have to worry about finding reputable businesses for electrical, painting, or construction work.

Interior Design Ideas for Living Rooms

An interior design plan starts with space planning and color selection. Our designers can help you select a color palette that suits your design taste. If you like a more subtle design, we suggest neutral hues so your furnishings and art can take center stage. If you prefer to be bold and mix things up, we can help you play with color imaginatively.

Trending

Color drenching a space in vibrant jewel tones, soothing neutrals, or expressive wall coverings are all modern ways people are adding color and texture to their living rooms.

Furniture Sets the Stage

Once you’ve chosen your color palette, selecting custom furniture that is functional and aesthetically pleasing is one of the most important steps. Our designers can walk you through your selections and help you make a wise decision that will bring satisfaction for years.

Accessorize to Your Heart’s Content

Selecting accessories allows you to express your personality with your living room design. Unusual Designs is home to a curated collection of pillows, throws, sculptures, and vases by designer brands such as A&B Hom es, Crestview, Curry & Company, and more.

Window Treatments for the Final Touch

Window treatments can either make or break a living room design. Selecting window coverings that complement your chosen interior style will combine the entire look. For example, interior shutters layered with custom drapery is an excellent choice if you gravitate towards a traditional design. On the other hand, if you prefer modern or contemporary, roller shades or mini blinds are well-suited to many types of windows.

Contact Us for Interior Design Solutions for Your Home

Unusual Designs has served our customers with state-of-the-art interior design services and products for over twenty years. As a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery, our priority is to help you make your dream home a reality.

When you are ready to give your living room a new style for the season, please request a consultation today or visit our showroom to speak with a team member. We are honored to serve Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, and Gloucester, Virginia.

Room By Room Interior Design: Foyers

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 19:52:05 GMT

Whether you own a home or a business in Virginia, your foyer sets the tone for the entire space. It’s where you greet guests and customers and where they get a first impression of your home or business, making its design crucial. At Unusual Designs, we specialize in crafting stunning, functional entryways—with luxurious Hunter Douglas window treatments , wall coverings, flooring, furniture, and decor that enhance both style and comfort.

Interior Design Ideas for Your Commercial Space Foyer

Comfort is Key

A well-designed commercial foyer should welcome clients with ease. Soft, comfortable furniture is essential, especially if your business requires customers to wait an extended period. Consider a charging station for client convenience and refreshments for a welcoming atmosphere. Pair these elements with sleek, motorized window coverings from Hunter Douglas for privacy and light control while maintaining a polished aesthetic.

Reflect Your Company’s Brand

Your interior design should reflect your company’s identity—which is why your commercial foyer design should reflect the personality of your business. Neutral tones convey professionalism, while bold colors can energize creative spaces. Incorporate art to match and let your backgrounds remain neutral enough to handle all different types of accessories.

Pro Tip: Pick window treatments that blend in to a neutral look—but stand out due to their performance! Custom roller shades or modern vertical blinds are neutral ways you can frame windows with sophistication.

Residential Foyer Design: Warm & Welcoming Inspiration

Convenience is a Must

Whether guests have traveled miles or just blocks, you know the one thing they want to do is hang their coats and find a place to relax. Built-in storage, a stylish bench, and decorative hooks keep clutter at bay. For added elegance, outfit your front door or sidelight windows with Hunter Douglas Luminette® Sheer Panels or Silhouette® Sheer Shades to gently soften natural light. Just twist their vanes closed to enhance privacy.

Reflect Your Home’s Interior Motif

Since your foyer is the grand entrance to your home, you want to be sure that its design reflects your home’s current interior motif. If you embrace a traditional interior, consider painting your foyer in a deep, jewel-tone for a rich, inviting experience. If paint isn’t your thing, a lush, intense wallpaper can also set the stage. Soft lighting is essential for a warm, inviting ambiance.

Window Treatments for Home and Commercial Foyers

No foyer is complete without the perfect window coverings. As a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery , Unusual Designs offers:

Motorized Solutions – For effortless light control in high-traffic areas.
Energy-Efficient Shades – Like Duette® Cellular Shades, ideal for temperature regulation.
Custom Drapery – To elevate both residential and commercial spaces.

Our talented team can help you select the best window treatment for your foyer design.

Visit Us for Interior Design Solutions for Entryways Near Newport News, VA

As a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery, we have served Newport News and its surrounding communities for over two decades. Our professional team is eager to work with you to design a foyer that makes your business or home stand out.

Please request a consultation today or stop by our showroom, and one of our friendly staff will contact you. We proudly serve Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, and Gloucester, Virginia.

Interior Design for Commercial Spaces: Tying It All Together

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 20:00:13 GMT

Walking into a well-designed commercial space should feel effortless—like everything is exactly where it’s meant to be. The room is well-lit, the furniture invites clients to stay awhile, and the overall atmosphere aligns with the business’s purpose. Whether you’re running a boutique hotel, a bustling office, or a cozy café, thoughtful interior design can elevate the experience for both customers and employees.

As a dedicated Virginia business owner, you know that the aesthetics of your commercial space is essential for overall success. When your customers and employees are happy, the better your business will be. At Unusual Designs, we believe commercial spaces should be more than just functional—they should tell your brand’s story. Today, our team is delighted to discuss how to implement a successful commercial design and why working with our professional designers can help with the process.

Why Use a Professional Interior Designer for Commercial Spaces?

Imagine walking into a restaurant where the tables are too close together, forcing diners to squeeze past each other. Or an office where employees trip over cords because workstations weren’t properly planned. These are the kinds of headaches good design prevents.

When you start with a professional interior design consultation, our design team can help you see the big picture. We start by mapping out movement—how people naturally flow through a space—and then build our plans from there.

Our interior designers are experts in maximizing space use. The right space arrangement can make all the difference, whether it’s modular shelving for a retail store or ergonomic workstations that keep employees comfortable during long workdays. At your consultation, we can help create a plan for your design to use your space as efficiently as possible.

If renovating an older commercial space, you might have to invest in some construction or contractor services. If that’s the case, our designers have their contacts ready. Hiring the right electricians, plumbers, and other contractors is essential, so you know your space is safe for the public.

Beauty and Durability for your Business Interior Design

Commercial spaces experience constant foot traffic, along with the random spills and other wear-and-tear, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing style.

For businesses aiming for a warm, organic feel, exposed brick, reclaimed wood, or stone accents add character without compromising durability. And for those committed to sustainability, we source eco-friendly options that look just as polished as traditional materials.

Your interior designer will help you set the stage with materials that stand up to the rigors of your business, like flooring options for high-traffic areas or window treatments that stand up to humidity in spaces like restaurants or spas.

Furniture That Works as Hard as You Do

Commercial furniture must be functional and multitask. A hotel lobby’s seating should be as comfortable as it is stylish. Office chairs need to support posture without looking industrial. And in retail, displays should be both functional and eye-catching.

We look for pieces that combine durability with design—stain-resistant fabrics for restaurants, modular sofas for flexible lounges, and space-saving solutions for offices with smaller footprints. Even something as simple as the right barstool height can improve customer comfort in a café or brewery.

Commercial Lighting Design

Lighting can make or break a space. Too harsh, and an office feels sterile. Too dim, and a retail shop loses its vibrancy. At Unusual Designs, we can help source the perfect window treatments to prioritize natural light, like easily adjusted blinds or sheer shades can soften glare while keeping the space bright. In a boutique or showroom, lighting can even guide customers toward featured products.

We can also help you choose task and ambient lighting options for your space:

Task lighting ensures workspaces are functional, whether it’s a well-lit checkout counter or focused desk lamps.
Ambient lighting includes fashionable pendant lights or a striking chandelier and adds personality and warmth.

Color & Branding with Commercial Interior Design

Color isn’t just about aesthetics—it shapes mood and perception. A tech startup might thrive in a space with bold, energetic hues, while a wellness center benefits from calming neutrals.

Our interior design team can help businesses choose wall colors or wallpaper that align with their brand identity while keeping the space versatile.

An accent wall in a deep navy or textured wallpaper can make a statement without overwhelming.

For businesses that prefer timeless elegance, a neutral base with pops of color in furnishings or artwork keeps things fresh and adaptable.

Why an Interior Designer Makes All the Difference

It’s tempting to tackle a commercial redesign alone, but an experienced designer brings more than just a good eye.

Designers anticipate problems before they happen.
Designers have access to trade-only resources , from custom fabrics to furniture options that aren’t available to the public.
Designers help manage the details , so you don’t have to juggle contractors, deliveries, and installations on top of running your business.

Most importantly, we help create a space that feels intentional—one that reflects your brand and makes employees and customers feel at ease.

Contact Us for Interior Design Solutions Near Newport News, VA

As a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery offering interior design solutions to homes and businesses, Unusual Designs has served Newport News, Virginia, and its surrounding communities with state-of-the-art interior design products for 25 years.

Whether you want to redesign a single room or your entire space, our gifted team of designers is standing by to assist. When you are ready to give your home a new look and feel for spring, request a consultation today.

We are honored to serve Newport News and the surrounding areas, including Williamsburg, Suffolk, Gloucester, Yorktown, Poquoson, and Portsmouth.

Whole Home Interior Design Works Together

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 14:49:52 GMT

Completing a new interior design project is not for the faint of heart. Interior remodels require careful planning, product selection, color palette creation, and space arrangement. This is followed by the implementation process, which can take a lot of time and planning.

While taking on this project on your own is an option, sometimes relying on the guidance of a professional interior designer offers various benefits. Today, we will discuss some of the many elements to consider for whole-home design and the perks of hiring a personal interior designer to help you with this process.

Investing in the services of an interior design will save you time and money in the long run—and an interior designer can help you create a beautiful space for you. At Unusual Designer, our team goes above and beyond to help designers and homeowners source and select unique and bespoke design elements to ensure that you select the best products for your home.

Why Hiring an Interior Designer for Consultation Matters

Many homeowners underestimate the value of a n interior design consultation. However, a designer’s expertise can save you time and money by avoiding costly mistakes, streamlining the selection process, and maximizing your space’s potential. Interior designers are highly creative and can offer ideas and unexpected suggestions.

Our design team at Unusual Designs wants to partner with you rather than control the process. We are eager to listen to your vision for your home and help you achieve your goals. At Unusual Designs, we offer our years of industry knowledge and experience with access to products and trade services so that you can create custom solutions for your interiors.

We can help create a well-planned layout that balances aesthetics and function, handling measurements, installations, and some project management services.

At Unusual Designs, we work with top designers to source custom window treatments, furnishings, textiles, and home decor that reflect your personal style while enhancing functionality.

Luxury Furniture Store Near Newport News, VA

Window treatments do more than provide privacy—they control natural light, provide energy efficiency, and build the overall ambiance of a space.

The right choice depends on your needs: if you’re seeking a sense of elegance and softness, then custom fabric shades would make a great addition to your living areas. For bedrooms, we often recommend cellular shades with blackout capabilities to create a private oasis. We also offer faux wood and composite shutters and blinds for kitchens and bathrooms, as well as motorized solutions perfect for both homes and commercial spaces.

Our selection of Hunter Douglas window treatments includes custom fabrics, automated solutions, and durable materials to enhance any window or door.

The Importance of Flooring in Interior Design

Walls are your canvas—whether you pref er bold wallpaper or classic paint colors, the right choice can transform a room. At Unusual Designs, we source high-end paints and exclusive wallpapers to bring personality to your interiors.

Accent Walls – Create depth with dramatic wallpaper or rich paint tones.
Neutral Palettes – Offer flexibility for evolving decor styles.
Textured Wallcoverings – Add dimension with grasscloth or 3D designs.

Home Accessories To Tie Your Design Together

The final layer of any design is the accessories that pull everything together. Thoughtful styling adds character and polish. We can help you choose functional and statement-making lighting like task lights, chandeliers, pendant lights, and sconces to set the mood. With a wide selection of fabrics, we can help you create custom throw pillows, blankets, and top window treatments to introduce additional color and texture to your design. We can help you select handpicked, one-of-a-kind accessories to complete your dream space. Art objects and decor pieces add functionality and enhance visual interest.

Where to Start with Interior Design?

Prepare for your consultation by creating a physical or Pinterest storyboard, depending on your preference. Collect images of various design styles, furniture, and accessories from interior design websites, books, and magazines to flow your creative juices. Include fabric, flooring, paint, and wallpaper samples in your storyboard for visual inspiration.

Creating a color palette that compliments your furnishings and acts as an appropriate backdrop is essential but not easy. Working with a designer for hue selection can make the process exciting rather than taxing. Whether you like bold, bright colors or soothing neutrals, a designer can help lead the way.

Contact Us for Interior Design Solutions Near Newport News, VA

As a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery, Unusual Designs has served Newport News, Virginia, and its surrounding communities with state-of-the-art interior design products for 25 years.

Whether you want to redesign a single room or your entire home, our gifted team of designers is standing by to assist. When you are ready to give your home a new look and feel for spring, request a consultation today.

We are honored to serve Newport News and the surrounding areas, including Williamsburg, Suffolk, Gloucester, Yorktown, Poquoson, and Portsmouth.

Accessories To Tie Your Design Together

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 14:57:57 GMT

If you are looking for a simple and inexpensive way to bring unity to your interior design, accessories are the answer. Accessories like accent and other function pieces can easily pull your whole look together. Today, our team at Unusual Designs is delighted to discuss how accessories can transform home and commercial spaces.

Benefits and Best Practices of Using Accessories in Home and Commercial Design

Benefits

Accessories are not just eye candy. They offer flair and function and can make any space come alive with texture, pattern, and form. At Unusual Designs, we carry accessories from some of the finest designers. Here we name a few:

DW Silks for high-quality interior silk foliage.
J.C. Fine Arts for visually appealing artworks.
Uttermost for various décor items, including lamps, mirrors, art, furniture, and more.

Best Practices

When using accessories to elevate a commercial or home design, it’s essential to consider the following:

Mix it up. Avoid choosing too many look-alike accessories, as this might result in a space that feels too contrived.
Select functional accessories that elevate the room’s ambiance. Lamps are a great way to transform an area; side tables provide more work or decorative space.
If the area you are re-imagining is small, don’t overwhelm it with oversized accessories. This will make your space feel cramped.
Consider ornate area rugs for residential design and industrial strength for commercial. Area rugs are a quick way to section off larger spaces.
Sculptures and wall art are another way to add depth and visual appeal.
Trays, plates, and bowls can be both decorative and functional. For residential and commercial spaces, you can fill them with fresh fruit or store keys and office materials.

Consult Us for Home and Commercial Interior Design

Sometimes, revamping a room with accessories can be overwhelming, but that’s when we can assist. Unusual Designs offers Interior Design Consultations. Our professional designers can help you select accessories that will complement your space and satisfy your design appetite.

While accessorizing a space is essential, it’s not the only element involved with redesigning a room. Our designers can guide you through our selection of flooring, wallpaper, paint, and more. They can also help you with space planning and furniture arrangement.

Working with an interior designer offers many benefits. One, it can save you money. Our interior designers know the industry and help you set up a cost-effective plan. Two, it will alleviate the stress often associated with creative projects. Our designers have established relationships with local contractors, so you won’t have to worry about hiring an ineffective company.

Visit Us for Accessories Near Newport News, Virginia

Unusual Designs is a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery in Newport News, Virginia. Our gifted team of design experts stands by to help you transform your home or commercial space with unique accessories from popular designers. When you are ready to elevate your space with stylish and functional accessories, request a consultation today.

We are honored to serve Newport News and the surrounding areas, including Williamsburg, Suffolk, Gloucester, Yorktown, Poquoson, and Portsmouth.

Why Hiring an Interior Designer for Consultation Matters

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 15:07:23 GMT

Redesigning your residential or commercial interior is no easy task. Before you begin, you must decide on a particular design style and learn about that motif's innate qualities and characteristics. You must consider various elements such as color palette, furniture and furniture placement, accessories, and window treatments. Making so many simultaneous decisions is overwhelming, but that's where Unusual Designs in Newport News, VA, can assist. Today, we are delighted to discuss the benefits of hiring an interior designer and introduce you to our complete consultation service.

The Benefits of an Interior Designer for Commercial and Residential Spaces

A Wealth of Creativity and Expertise

Our interior designers have a plethora of creative vision and expertise. They will listen to your vision, help you see the big picture, and imagine the desired outcome. They will assist you with a color palette and help you select furniture, art, and other décor. They know how to mix and match patterns and textures and will ensure that your space is stylish and functional.

Unlimited Industry Contacts

One of the most challenging aspects of a redesign is hiring confidential contractors. Our designers have hearty contacts with craftspeople and manufacturers unavailable to the general public. This unparalleled access will help you select from an array of unique fabrics and other materials for an exclusive design that reflects your lifestyle and personality.

A Money Saving Resource

While investing in an interior design consultation is initially expensive, it will save you money in the long run. Our designers will ensure you make the best flooring, paint, furniture, wallpaper, and more selections. You can be confident you won't have to return furniture and other expensive décor. Our designers will help you create and stay within a reasonable budget.

Personalization

One of the most powerful aspects of working with our designers is that they will listen to and honor your ideas and vision. They will not talk you into anything that disinterests you but will ensure that your new design style is exactly what you want.

Our Interior Design Services

Now that you understand the benefits of hiring an interior designer, we want to introduce you to our Interior Design Consultations. Our team has over thirty years of experience and is well-versed in their art. They will work with you side-by-side on all residential and commercial design aspects. They know what it takes to make any space aesthetically pleasing and functional.

They can help you arrange furniture and select a design style motif. They will also introduce you to our various popular brands, such as Hunter Douglas window treatments and fabrics, and furnishing from sophisticated vendors, such as Davis & Davis, Kravet, Our House Designs, and many more.

Contact Us for Interior Design Services Near Newport News, VA

Unusual Designs is a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery in Newport News, Virginia. Our talented team consists of experts in all our products and services, and their main goal is to help you make your dream home a reality. When you are ready to learn how to hire an interior designer for professional consultation, request a consultation today . We are honored to serve Newport News and the surrounding areas, including Williamsburg, Suffolk, Gloucester, Yorktown, Poquoson, and Portsmouth.

Furniture for Functional Interior Design

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 15:42:11 GMT

Function is one of the most essential elements in both home and commercial design. It’s equally as important as aesthetics, especially for rooms like kitchens, bedrooms, and commercial offices.

Investing in functional furniture will unify the entire design for a practical, cohesive look. Today, our team at Unusual Designs discusses furniture for functional homes and commercial spaces.

Furniture for Functional Home Design

While all the rooms in your home require a certain level of functionality, practicality is also important.

Your kitchen is the most productive room in your home, and you need the space to be efficient. Storage and surface area are two elements that every homeowner wants in their kitchens. For that, we recommend a thoughtful combination of the right table and other prep surfaces, like kitchen islands.

Fold-out kitchen tables are a popular functional piece. They can be a space saver when not in use and provide extra preparation space and place settings.
Kitchen islands can be purchased and moved out of the way, or they can built-in with elements like stovetops and sinks to offer increased efficiency, especially for significant entertaining events.

Bedrooms and nurseries also call for function. Furniture such as a comfortable seating areas or convertible furniture, like a dresser that can also serve as a changing table or a crib that transforms into a child’s bed, are an excellent investment. It will save you both money and time.

Furniture for Functional Commercial Design

Commercial spaces are all about function and productivity. Ergonomic furniture is essential for employees’ physical well-being.

Chairs that adapt to a person’s weight and body build will increase worker output and overall satisfaction. Choose ergonomic task chairs for those who work at a desk or computer for extended periods. Mesh desk chairs are excellent for increased breathability.

Spacious multi-functional working stations allow employees to meet their maximum productivity. Here are several different functional desk styles:

Single desks are for a single person and are perfect for a small commercial space with many employees working on individual tasks.
Standing desks focus on back health. Studies have proven that too much sitting can cause back problems and other health issues.
Conference desks keep collaboration and brainstorming at their core. They foster team and client interaction.
Adjustable standing desks are popular because they can meet various ergonomic needs. You can adjust them to fit different team member heights to ensure a healthy posture and reduce the amount of sitting time throughout the day.

Visit Us for Home and Commercial Furniture Near Newport News, VA

Unusual Designs is a Hunter Douglas Gallery that has served our customers with interior design products for over twenty years.

Offering furniture from leading brands like Chateau D’Ax, Fabricut, Kravet, Norwalk, Our House Designs, and Uttermost, o ur talented team is standing by to listen to your ideas and help you find the best furnishings for your space and answer any questions you might have.

Please request a consultation today or visit our showroom to speak with a member of our team. We are honored to serve Newport News, VA, and its surrounding communities, including Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, and Suffolk, VA.

The Importance of Flooring in Interior Design

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 16:42:23 GMT

Complex and engaging interior design requires a pleasing mix of different textures of materials to make a space come alive. Interesting accessories, select furnishings, and window treatments play a significant role. But one of the most essential materials when creating a unique interior is flooring.

If you’re looking to change your interior or invest in your property, one of the best ways to make a big design impact and add value to your home or business is upgrading your flooring surfaces. Replacing worn or outdated carpet, vinyl, and tile is one method that will give you great visual satisfaction and increase the overall value of your home.

Our team at Unusual Designs is here to discuss how to make an interior space come alive with our selection of new flooring options. Read on to learn why this simple upgrade is important for residential and business interior design.

Flooring for Home Design

It Makes the First Impression: Flooring is the first thing your guests will notice when they enter your home, so you want to be sure it makes a lasting impression. Whether you install new carpet, tile, vinyl, or hardwood, you want to be sure it fulfills the needs of your daily lifestyle.

Functionality: Residential flooring should be functional as well as good looking. It would make no sense to lay plush carpet in most kitchens or bathrooms because it deep carpet may retain moisture. Tile and vinyl are perfect for places where water and humidity are an issue. If you want soft, cozy flooring on your feet, then heated flooring or carpet is the perfect solution, especially in relaxed playrooms or bedrooms.

Style: Flooring can set the stage for various design motifs. For example, if your interior design style is modern, selecting sleek flooring like tile or rich hardwood is a great idea. On the other hand, if your interior is more casual, a classic hardwood laminate or vinyl will fit the bill.

Flooring for Commercial Design

One of the major functions of commercial flooring is to endure constant foot traffic while maintaining its appearance over months and years. Most businessplaces are subject to the wear and tear of employee and customer traffic, so selecting durable flooring such as laminate, or engineered wood, is imperative.

Another function of commercial flooring is safety. You want to ensure that your flooring resists slips and fire so you can have peace of mind that your employees and clients are safe.

While the main purpose of any commercial space is to conduct business, you must choose an attractive flooring to ensure that your space is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Studies prove that attractive workspaces increase employee productivity and please customers as well.

Design is also about more than looks: commercial spaces often feature open-plan layouts. You can use different flooring materials to define specific spaces, such as eating areas, production areas, and individual cubicles.

Shop Our Store for Quality Flooring Near Newport News, VA

Unusual Designs carries a wide variety of high-quality flooring to outfit your home or commercial space. Our talented team can guide you through our product selection and help you decide which flooring works for you.

When you are ready to explore your options, schedule a consultation today . We are honored to serve Newport News, VA, and its surrounding communities including Williamsburg, Suffolk, Gloucester, Yorktown, Poquoson, and Portsmouth, VA.

Paint and Wallpaper for Interior Design

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 16:49:58 GMT

When it’s time to update your home or business, your walls are one of the most impactful surfaces and act as a canvas to express your interior design style or brand. Wall color impacts how a space makes its occupants feel, and this also determines how we act and interact within a space.

Today, our team at Unusual Designs is delighted to discuss how paint and wallpaper can transform your home or commercial space.

The Impact of Wall Treatments in Home Design

Setting the Mood: The paint colors or wallpaper patterns you choose can dramatically influence the atmosphere of any room. Warm tones can create a cozy, inviting feel, while cool colors can improve a sense of rest and relaxation. Light neutral shades offer style versatility and can make a space feel larger.

Expressing Brand or Personal Style: Your walls are a perfect opportunity to showcase your brand or personality. Whether you prefer bold colors, subtle neutrals, or pops of patterns, the right wall treatment can reflect your unique taste and create a space that truly feels like your own.

At home, well-chosen wall colors or wallpapers can complement your furnishings, artwork, and accessories. They can serve as a backdrop that ties all elements of a room together, creating a cohesive and polished look.

In a commercial setting, your walls can be a powerful tool for reinforcing your brand identity. Using your company's colors or incorporating your logo can create a strong visual impact on clients and employees alike.

Productivity and Mood: Studies have shown that color can affect productivity and mood in the workplace. For instance, blue can promote focus and mental clarity, while bright colors can stimulate creativity. Choosing the right colors for different areas of your business can optimize the work environment.

Defining Spaces: Paint colors or wall coverings can be used to delineate various areas without the need for walls or barriers. This can help create distinct zones for different activities while maintaining an open concept layout.

Experiment with Pattern or Texture: Florals, botanicals, and geometrical patterns are popular for different interiors. You can easily create an accent wall with wallpaper and select a hue from the pattern accompanying paint for the rest of the room. Just be sure to view samples in the space before you begin the big project. Both paint and wallpaper can take on different personalities in various lighting scenarios.

Paint vs. Wallpaper: Choosing the Right Option

Paint

Offers versatility and ease of change
Generally more cost-effective
Can be easily touched up or refreshed

Wallpaper

Provides intricate patterns and textures
Can hide wall imperfections
Durable and long-lasting
Ideal for creating statement walls or unique designs

Here are just a few unique ideas.

Staircases are one of the most appealing architectural features of any space. You can easily use paint or wallpaper on the stairwells or risers to create a statement.
Bookcase backings can be given a new look with Paint or wallpaper accents.
Ceilings are called the new fifth wall. These surfaces are another opportunity for paint and wallpaper to add a new layer of dimension.

Shop Our Store for Custom Paint and Wallpaper Near Newport News, VA

At Unusual Designs, we offer a wide range of high-quality paints and wallpapers to suit every style and budget. Our experienced team can guide you through the selection process, helping you choose the perfect wall treatments to bring your vision to life.

Ready to transform your walls? We welcome you to schedule a consultation today, and one of our staff members will reach out. We are honored to serve Newport News, VA, and its surrounding communities, including Williamsburg, Suffolk, Gloucester, Yorktown, Poquoson, and Portsmouth, VA.

The Best Commercial Office Window Treatments

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 16:57:01 GMT

Investing in the aesthetics of your commercial office is a wise choice for your business's longevity and productivity. We’ve discussed previously how one of the most effective ways to elevate the look and feel of your office space is with new window treatments .

Today, our team at Unusual Designs is delighted to share a few of our best commercial office window treatments.

Designer Roller Shades for a Pleasing Office Space

Studies have proven that the more light and open your commercial space is, the happier your employees and clients will be. Dim, mundane offices will not inspire your workers or impress your guests. The more attractive your office space is, the more productive your employees will be. It's easy to assume that customers will be more likely to purchase in an aesthetically pleasing space.

Designer Roller Shades are an excellent option for adding excellent light control and additional flair to your commercial space. We offer these convenient roller shades in a generous selection of fabrics available in patterns and colors to give your commercial environment a pop of personality. These shades allow each user to manage light and privacy control to their exact need.

Modernize Your Office Space with Metal Mini Blinds

Modern design is an excellent choice for commercial spaces. It boasts clean, straight lines and an uncluttered, efficient aesthetic. Modern, minimal style also brings to mind a more organized space. Clients will notice the professional looking Modern Precious Metals® Mini Blinds , an excellent choice for creating a no-fuss, effective commercial space. But these blinds are far from boring and basic—we offer these streamlined blinds in a generous array of colors, from bold brights to soft pastels and calming neutrals. Whatever personality you want to infuse into your commercial space, we have options suited for your space.

Create a Class Act Commercial Office with Wood Shutters

Heritance® Wood Shutters are the perfect choice if your office space is more formal or traditional. Perfect for doctor’s offices, lawyer’s offices, foyers, conference rooms, and beyond, these sophisticated shutters will enhance any space with a stately built-in appeal. You can manage your light and privacy by simply tilting the slats. We offer these luxurious shutters in a generous selection of paints and stains, so you are sure to find one that enhances your office furnishings.

You can opt for a full shutter covering the entire window length or a divided shutter. Divided shutters allow you to manage your light from the top or the bottom. You can also choose bifold or bypass tracks for sliding glass or French doors.

Shop Our Store for the Best Commercial Office Window Treatments Near Newport News, VA

Unusual Designs is your premier source for everything you need to enhance your business space's interior design. Our gifted designers are eager to hear your ideas and help you create an office or commercial design that inspires employees and guests alike.

When you are ready to explore your commercial window treatment options, stop into our showroom in Newport News, VA, or request a consultation today , and one of our friendly staff will contact you.

We are honored to serve Newport News, VA, and its surrounding communities, including Williamsburg, Suffolk, Gloucester, Yorktown, Poquoson, and Portsmouth.

Decorating Windows and Doors with Shades and More

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 17:03:11 GMT

One of the fundamental principles in interior design is cohesion. Interiors that feature elements can sometimes come across as artfully collected, but it’s more likely that without an eye for design, spaces that lack a certain level of cohesion and have too many different elements added together without a plan rarely succeed and often look disjointed.

While there are many ways to ensure a solidified aesthetic, such as unifying a space with paint and flooring, a singular window treatment style is one of the most effective methods to create a cohesive look across one room or an entire home.

When your home features multiple window sizes and glass doors, creating a cohesive look with your window treatments is key to achieving a polished and harmonious interior. By selecting blinds or shades with similar styles and fabrics, you can unify the appearance of your windows throughout your home.

Read on to learn more about creating a cohesive space with a Whole Home Solution™ with Hunter Douglas window treatments from our team at Unusual Designs.

Unify Your Horizontal and Vertical Blinds with These Decorating Ideas

While traditional windows and those requiring vertical panels (such as sliding glass doors) may have significant differences, it's still possible to maintain a consistent aesthetic by choosing shades or blinds with a cohesive look. One of our tips? Consider selecting shades with similar light filtering properties.

Hunter Douglas sheer shades are made from similar materials with comparable textures across different shade types, even if the styles vary.

For example, Luminette® Sheer Panels are a vertical sheer shade that combines the best features of drapery, blinds, and sheers for a vertical window treatment that is perfect for sliding glass doors and windows that are wider than they are tall. To create a cohesive look, pair them with Silhouette® Sheer Shades in a matching fabric. These sheer shades fit windows of all sizes and shapes, but in a horizontal orientation. You can pick the same fabric across Luminette® Sheer Panels and Silhouette® Sheer Shades for a cohesive solution.

Try Multiple Orientations of The Same Shade

When dealing with a variety of window sizes and orientations, it's essential to find window treatments that can adapt to different needs while maintaining a unified appearance. Look for versatile options that can be customized for both multiple applications without compromising on style.

If your home has numerous window and door styles, such as arches, skylights, sliding doors, and more, outfitting them with an adaptable window treatment makes perfect sense. One of our most versatile window treatments is Duette® Cellular Shades. We can easily fit these shades to fit oval, arches, bay, geometrical angles, and even sliding glass doors with the vertical Vertiglide™ feature.

By focusing on these aspects, you can create a cohesive look for your window treatments that enhances the overall aesthetic of your home, regardless of the diversity in window sizes and types.

Shutters are also excellent for this type of styling.

Power Up Your Window and Door Shades and Blinds

Nothing detracts from a cohesive look than shades and blinds hanging at different levels. Manual operation is the culprit. It’s challenging to get every shade and blind to hang evenly with manual adjustment. PowerView® Automation , an innovative cord-free automated control system, designed for perfected and safer window treatment adjustment. You can rest assured that not one blind or shade is out of sync with the others. When you look throughout your home, you’ll see a harmonious, balanced aesthetic.

Visit Us for Window and Door Window Treatments Near Newport News, VA

Unusual Designs is a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery in Newport News, Virginia. Our gifted team of design experts is here and ready to help you create the space of your dreams with custom window treatments and interior design solutions like flooring, wallpaper, and more.

When you are ready to learn how to unify your space with high-quality window treatments, request a consultation today .

We are honored to serve Newport News and the surrounding areas, including Williamsburg, Suffolk, Gloucester, Yorktown, Poquoson, and Portsmouth.

What to Expect from Your Window Covering Installer

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 17:56:36 GMT

If you’re new to ordering custom window coverings, the process can be in-depth to assure the perfect fit for your windows. From selecting your perfect window treatment to measuring the window accurately to the final installation—this isn’t necessarily a DIY project and it can be hard to know what to expect.

That’s where our team of professionals at Unusual Designs can guide you along the way. We work with our clients to ensure that the window covering installation process is seamless from beginning to end.

What To Expect When Ordering Specialty Window Coverings

Our professional window covering installation service is handled by Hunter Douglas certified installers. Our team members are fully trained experts with years of experience to guarantee a perfect installation. Our installers can answer any questions during the entire process.

After you order your window treatments, that is where the process begins.

Accurate Measurements

The most essential step to any window covering installation is accurate measurements. If the measurements are just slightly off, the window treatment won’t fit your windows precisely. Not all windows are perfect in dimensions, so we measure them on the horizontal, vertical, and diagonal orientations to achieve the most accurate results. Relying on our professional installers to measure is your safest bet for a successful installation. We consider window molding and nearby light switches that can interfere with the installation. We will also inquire whether you prefer an inside or outside mount:

Window treatments with an outside mount are mounted outside of the entire window frame. This mount type is perfect for camouflaging unsightly trim or molding and can also make your window appear larger.
Inside mounts hang directly within the frame and are best for a snug, clean fit. They increase insulation because they create a layer of protection close to the glass.

Our installers use professional tools and hardware that will not damage your window’s frame and molding.

Timely Installation

Once you’ve chosen your desired window covering and our team completes the final measurement, we receive your custom shutters made to measurements. Our professional installers will then schedule a time that is convenient for you to come to your home to install your treatments, transforming your space into the home of your dreams. Our installers have years of experience working in homes with various window types and architectural features. They are familiar with all the nuances of installation and can offer you advice on the best type of mount for your new window treatments.

Contact Us for Window Covering Installation Near Newport News, VA

Unusual Designs is your premier source for everything you need. We carry wallpaper, furniture, window treatments, flooring, and more to make your dream house a reality.

When you are ready to invest in new window coverings and want to learn about our professional measuring and installation service, contact us today, and one of our friendly staff will reach out.

We are honored to serve Newport News, VA, and its neighboring communities.

The Benefits of Custom Shutters Near Newport News, VA

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 18:05:03 GMT

Interior plantation-style shutters offer a timeless aesthetic and a substantial architectural presence to any space. They come in many styles and materials, and their charming yet elegant design can fit into various interior styles. Whether you’re interested in the look of wood or are seeking a durable material that blends seamlessly into your trim, we have options for you. Our team at Unusual Designs is here to discuss their different benefits and how you can use shutters to complement your unique and unusual design style.

What Are The Benefits of Customized Plantation Shutters?

Interior shutters are a popular choice for many homes and businesses because they are a protective window covering with a lot to offer:

Increased Property Value: Not only do custom shutters look good on the interior of your home—they also enhance the value of your home. Unlike many other window treatment styles, interior shutters can elevate your appraisal value, which is important if and when you plan to sell your home.
Elevated Insulation: Custom shutters fit tightly within the window’s frame to deter warm or hot air from entering your home. If your room gets too sunny, you can shut the slats in the summer so your home stays cool. Open the slats and keep your space warm in the winter.
Ultimate Light and Privacy Control: Custom shutters allow you to easily manage your light and privacy by tilting the slats. When you want a bit of light and limited privacy without compromising your view, you can open the slats from different angles, depending on your preferences.
Design Versatility: Custom plantation shutters are among the most versatile window treatments on the market. They can enhance a variety of interior design styles, from modern to traditional. With different options that control the slats with or without a tilt bar, as well as closure styles that include bypass and bi-fold systems, you can find the perfect fit for your doors or windows with interior shutters.

How Our Custom Plantation Shutters Can Elevate Your Design Motif

Explore how our plantation shades can complement a few interior design styles.

Traditional Design with Wood Shutters

When you think of traditional interiors, you probably envision classic wood furniture, woven rugs, and neutral colors with a spare use of bold hues. Traditional interiors often feature crown molding and wainscotting for luxe, layered aesthetic.

The rich, warm wood grain of Hunter Douglas Heritance® Wood Shutters perfectly enhance a traditional design. We can fit our 100% hardwood poplar or basswood shutters to various window styles, including French and sliding glass doors. Whatever the dominant wood hue in your room, you can select from a generous collection of stain colors so you are sure to find a match—or select a paint color to either pop out or match your trim.

Go Coastal with Vinyl Shutters

Homes in beautiful coastal towns like Newport News deserve a design that embraces the elements of the region, like design elements that reflect the beauty of the water, sky, and beaches. Bright colors, wicker, and botanical prints are popular in coastal homes.

When it comes to your window treatments, consider layering drapes with Palm Beach™ Polysatin™ Vinyl Shutters . They resist water, moisture, and humidity—all elements common near a coast. These luxurious shutters will not bow, bend, crack, or break due to the elements.

Hybrid Shutters That Can Go Anywhere

For those looking for a shutter style that can fit into many different interior designs—from modern to traditional and everywhere in between—we recommend the durable and versatile look of Hunter Douglas NewStyle® Composite Shutters . They feature the look of hardwood with the durability of composite materials and are available in neutral shades that are as comfortable in a coastal design as they would be in a farmhouse or mid-century modern home.

Contact Us for Custom Shutters Near Newport News, VA

Since 2000, Unusual Designs has been a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery showroom with residential, commercial, and institutional clients across the Hampton Roads and Tidewater region. Our team eager to assist you with any project, large or small. When you are ready to outfit your space with custom plantation-style interior shutters, request a consultation today , and one of our friendly staff will contact you.

We are honored to serve Newport News, VA, and its surrounding communities.

Matching Window Treatments & Hardware

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 18:12:54 GMT

Sometimes, even one of the smallest elements in your interior design, like your hardware, can either make or break the look of your space. After making a time and financial investment when it comes to renovating a room or adding new window treatments to your existing space, you want to be sure that all the hardware choices work together to enhance the beauty of your home for a long-lasting, cohesive design.

Today, our team at Unusual Designs is delighted to offer a few tips for successful hardware selection and our state-of-the-art operating system, PowerView® Automation—always a perfect fit for any home interior design.

The Art of Selecting the Right Hardware for Your Window Treatments

Selecting cohesive hardware for your home decor is an art unto itself. It’s much like choosing a frame for a piece of original art. For example, you wouldn’t necessarily want a big bulky wood frame for a delicate watercolor—and you would want your frames to either match well or fit together in an artful, eclectic combination. The same goes for your hardware. Think about the existing finishes in your space—from the doorknobs to the color of fixtures and other elements like handles, door pulls, and brackets.

When it comes to window treatments & hardware, rods, brackets, rings, hinges, tiebacks, and finials are all part of the hardware family. Unusual Designs has a vast collection of hardware to complement our selection of Hunter Douglas window treatments—and the existing hardware in your space.

Here are a few helpful hints that will make the process easier.

Consider Material

Your hardware material can drastically change the look and ambiance of a room. If you choose hardware made from natural materials like wood or bamboo, this offers a more stately, casual, or at times country look—it It all depends on the type and color of the wood.

Metal hardware has its own challenges. Stay with hardware in the same metal finish or color family. Avoid mixing too many metal finishes like silvers, golds, and coppers—while they all look great when paired with black or white.

Consider Sheen

It is imperative to ensure that the hardware adds a cohesive look rather than a clashing one. For example, be thoughtful about how to mix and match matte and shiny or glossy finishes together. Too many elements will complicate the look.

Consider How They Feel with Fabric

If you have drapery or fabric window treatments, then your hardware material consideration is crucial. Hanging heavy velvet drapes on a flimsy rod will be disastrous. You want your hardware to support the weight of the fabric. You also wish the rings and finials to match the personality of your fabric.

Consider Function

Hardware plays a significant role in how your belongings and window treatments operate. You can consider a tieback if you want a quick way to open your treatments. If you wish to complete ease of operation, curtain rings are a perfect way to allow the length of material to traverse the rod smoothly.

Hands-Free Automation with the PowerView® Gateway

Now that you know more about selecting hardware, consider handsfree operating systems for elevated convenience. That’s why we offer PowerView® Automation ! You can choose a wall-mounted or handheld Pebble® remote to match your interiors and hardware.

Another great option for voice control is by pairing your smart home system with the PowerView® Gateway by Hunter Douglas. This innovative Gen 3 system accessory offers many benefits, including voice control, home automation compatibility, range extension, precise movement, overall home control, and perfect synchronization. No matter your window treatment or hardware, automation is a timeless choice that enhances any space.

Contact Us for Window Treatments & Hardware Near Newport News, VA

Unusual Designs is your go-to source for all things in interior design. We have everything you need to make your unique home vision become a reality. Our talented staff is well-versed in all our products and services and is eager to work with you.

When you are ready to learn how to select hardware for your window treatments successfully, request a consultation today , and one of our friendly staff will contact you. We are honored to serve Newport News, VA, and its surrounding communities including Williamsburg, Suffolk, Gloucester, Yorktown, Poquoson, and Portsmouth.

Try These Blinds and Shades for Entry Doors and Sidelights

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 18:21:15 GMT

Your front door is the main attraction of your home. It makes a first impression on guests and visiting family members. Enhancing your entry door or sidelight windows with a high-quality window covering guarantees your entryway will stand out—plus, these blinds and shades offer both aesthetic and functional benefits.

Our team of design experts at Unusual Designs is eager to introduce you to a few of our favorite window treatments for entry doors and sidelights.

Insulate Your Entryway with Cellular Shades for Entry Doors

While your front door certainly is the hallmark of your home, it is also a place where cold and hot air can enter your space. In fact, up to 30% of heat and air loss happens at your windows and doors. Cellular shades from Hunter Douglas are some the most energy-efficient window treatments on the market. We are proud to carry two different styles.

Duette® Cellular Shades have an innovative design featuring honeycomb shaped cells hidden between two fabric layers. They fit close to the window and trap hot and cold air within their pockets, preventing air from entering or exiting your home. These sophisticated shades also boast superior sound absorption for a tranquil, quiet foyer or entryway.

You can opt for three pleat sizes: —⅜", ¾," or one ¼" and select from various luxurious fabrics. You can add Top-Down or Top-Down/Bottom-Up operation and the Duolite® dual shade system for additional lighting scenarios.

Sonnette® Roller Shades combine the simplicity of a roller shade with a layer of insulating honeycomb cells. These 2" cells trap cold and hot air so your home remains cool in the summer and warm in the winter. We offer these shades in two fabric opacities (semi-opaque and room darkening). Your final selection depends on your need for privacy and light management:

You can select from over 50 fabric and color choices ranging from airy pastels to calming neutrals to earth-loving tones. These shades will transform light for a beautiful entryway.

Add Warm and Depth to Your Entry with Sidelight Blinds

Doors with sidelights are a unique architectural feature. The added panels of glass on one or either side make your entryway appear grander, but they also allow for more light and air to enter.

Parkland® Wood Blinds are a perfect fit for sidelight doors, adding instant sophistication and warmth. Hunter Douglas uses authentic real wood from responsible forests, so you can have peace of mind that your blinds are sustainably sourced. The rich, deep grains of poplar or basswood hardwood will add dimension and everlasting beauty to your sidelights. You can also select from over 50 stain and paint choices, ranging from deep natural wood tones to lighter shades of white.

For even more architectural zest, consider decorative tapes in a variety of patterns and colors to hide light holes and prevent unnecessary glare.

Contact Us for Entry Door Shades and Sidelight Window Treatments

Unusual Designs is a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery in Newport News, Virginia. Our talented professionals are experts in our generous assortment of entry door and sidelight window treatments.

When you are ready to explore your options, please visit our state-of-the-art showroom in Newport News, VA, or request a consultation today or give us a call at (757) 595-5131 .

We are honored to serve Newport News and the surrounding areas.

The Benefits of Professional Window Treatments for Your Business

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 18:28:24 GMT

As a Virginia business owner, you know the success of your company depends on the happiness of your employees and customers and the impression they have when encountering your business space for the first time.

Creating a productive working and selling space is also paramount for your company growth. One way to make a workspace feel more welcoming and comfortable is the proper window treatments. Today, our team at Unusual Designs will discuss the benefits of professional window treatments and introduce you to the features of our favorite commercial shades and blinds.

An Elevated Aesthetic with Designer Roller Shades

If your business looks dull and drab, you won’t instill positive first impressions on your customers and employees. No one wants to work or shop in a place that lacks natural light or that is too bright, which makes Hunter Douglas Designer Roller Shades a perfect window treatment choice for fostering an inviting, confident appeal.

These roller shades offer a modern, minimal look and are easy to control—no matter your window size. You can select from a vast array of colors, patterns, and textures so that your business environment can manage incoming light and develop its personality.

You can add decorative accents for the top and bottom of the shades for even more design style. You can rest assured that Designer Roller Shades can either stand out from the crowd or blend into the background and create a more comfortable space for your employees and customers as they enter and experience your business space.

Increased Energy Efficiency with Commercial Shades

As both an employee and a consumer, you know there is nothing worse than working or shopping in a place of business that is either too hot or cold. An uncomfortable room temperature can put a damper on the entire work or shopping experience. Plus, heating and cooling are one of the biggest utility payments your business makes on a monthly basis. Duette® Cellular Shades are the most insulating window treatments available, and they will not only help you save on your business’s monthly energy bill but also add a soft ambiance to the environment.

These innovative shades trap air within their honeycomb pockets, protecting your employees and customers from drafts of cold or incoming hot air. Studies have repeatedly proven that the physical comfort level of your business workspace will increase employee productivity and enhance consumer sales and interactions.

Superior Light Control with Vertical Blinds for Businesses

Unwanted glare from the sun on computer work screens can decrease team member productivity. Too much contact with the direct sun can also cause material to fade and discolor and overheat cash registers, computers, and employees and guests alike. Effective light management is also essential for presentation rooms where employees and vendors display vital information on a big screen.

Vertical Blinds are an excellent choice for advanced light management for large windows and sliding doors. Hunter Douglas vertical blinds allow you to create different lighting scenarios, and their horizontal form will add visual height to your windows, accenting your business space. We are proud to carry several different styles of vertical blinds to fit the look and feel of your business.

Contact Us for Professional Window Treatments for Your Business

Unusual Designs is a certified Hunter Douglas Gallery in Newport News, Virginia. Our talented team of design experts is eager to help you make your place of business more inviting and comfortable for your employees and customers.

When you are ready to explore your window treatment options, request a consultation today . We are honored to serve Newport News and the surrounding areas.

The Best Kitchen Window Blinds

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 13:53:21 GMT

When it comes to crafting the perfect kitchen, each detail matters. From the colors of your walls to the flooring beneath your feet, it all contributes to the overall aesthetic of your space. One often-overlooked aspect that can elevate your kitchen's style and functionality is the choice of window blinds.

Boost your kitchen's aesthetics with our diverse range of blinds. Wood blinds bring warmth and natural charm, adding a rustic touch. For a sleek and modern vibe, choose the durability of metal blinds. Our stylish vertical blinds are the perfect choice if you're aiming for versatile light control and a contemporary look. Transform your kitchen into a stylish haven with custom blinds for your taste.

Blinds for kitchen windows: a blend of style and practicality

Your kitchen is the heart of your home, where you prepare meals, share laughter, and make memories. Choosing the right window blinds enhances the visual appeal of your kitchen and plays a crucial role in managing light, privacy, and energy efficiency.

Unusual Designs' Window Treatments

At Unusual Designs, we understand the importance of creating a space that reflects your style. Our curated collection of window treatments, including Hunter Douglas blinds and Carole™ Fabrics, is designed to cater to your specific needs.

Uncovering The Perfect Kitchen Window Blind

1. Hunter Douglas Brilliance in Every Detail

When it comes to premium window treatments, Hunter Douglas stands out. The kitchen window blinds from Hunter Douglas offer a variety of innovative features. From motorized options for added convenience to a wide range of fabrics and materials, these blinds blend seamlessly with your kitchen's decor.

2. Carole™ Fabrics: Elevating Elegance

For those seeking a touch of elegance and timeless appeal, the Carole™ Fabrics collection is a must-see. These blinds are not just window coverings; they are statement pieces that add luxury to your kitchen. With an array of colors and textures, you can effortlessly match them with your existing design elements.

Why Unusual Designs Stands Out

1. Comprehensive Solutions Beyond Blinds

At Unusual Designs, we offer more than just window blinds. Our expertise extends to flooring, furniture, paint, and wallpaper. We provide a one-stop solution to transform your kitchen into a cohesive and visually stunning space.

2. Serving Your Local Community

Based in Newport News, Virginia, Unusual Designs proudly serves the local community. Our service areas include Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, and Gloucester, Virginia. We understand the unique design preferences of the region, ensuring our products resonate with the local aesthetic. .

Why Unusual Designs Stands Out

Your kitchen deserves the best, including the finest window blinds to complement its charm. Visit Unusual Designs to explore the exquisite range of kitchen window blinds, Hunter Douglas window treatments, Carole™ Fabrics, and more. Let Unusual Designs be your partner in creating a kitchen that meets your practical needs and captivates with its exceptional style. Your culinary haven awaits! Contact us if you have any questions.

The Best Sheer Shade Options for Your Windows

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 13:59:13 GMT

When it comes to decorating your windows, no one does it better than Unusual Designs . We have the right professionals and experience to provide you with the best window treatments you have ever had. We carry the best products on the market to ensure that we can provide you with everything you have been looking for. Our favorite products are our Hunter Douglas Sheer Shades, which help you create the interiors of your dreams with the lighting and privacy you have always wanted. If you have been considering adding sheers to your home, you will not regret learning about our three options.

Silhouette® Sheer Shades

The secret of these sheers lies in the S-shaped vanes that float between and front and back sheer. This creates gorgeous, diffused light, along with daytime privacy. It would be best if you didn’t have to choose between one or the other. These sheers have been designed so you can Get it all. This one-of-a-kind design creates a soft radiance that is ideal for your home. By tilting the fabric vanes, you create an ambiance that is perfect for the mood. You can even opt to enhance the view-through with ClearView® sheers, giving you the best privacy control and visibility.

Pirouette® Sheer Shades

Control light in a magical way with these sheer shades. They offer UV protection your home needs, so you don’t have to risk your flooring, furniture, and artwork fading from the sun. You can protect your home further by adding shades to your windows. These sheers are offered in sumptuous fabrics that are beautiful and high-quality, making them perfect for your interiors. The Alustra® Collection of fabrics is the best in the industry, and they come in either 4” or 5” vane sizes to match your preferences. They are designed with unique fabric vanes and a single back sheer, offering light in a space with a gorgeous design.

Luminette® Sheer Panels

Our sheer panels are an excellent option for larger windows and doors. The drapery-like sheers exude a soft glow into your rooms, creating an elegant aesthetic. These shadings are distinctly designed to control light while creating privacy. The vanes rotate, so you can position them in a way that fits your needs. They provide a buffer between your interiors and the sun, giving you peace of mind that your interiors are being protected. Plus, don’t forget that you can get these sheer fabrics cut in accents by the yard, so your entire interior design comes together perfectly.

Contact Us

Sheer shades are a highly sought-after product because of the benefits and beauty they can add to a room, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. Contact Us today to set up a free consultation with one of our experts who will help you every step of the way during this window decorating journey. We proudly serve Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, Gloucester, VA, and the surrounding area. We cannot wait to help you bring your interior dreams to life!