Inspired by: Cedar & Oak
ENTRY XXVIII · V.XXIX.MMXXIII
At Era Design House, we love taking the time to appreciate and celebrate the expertise of fellow industry professionals who continue to inspire us. We had the pleasure of engaging with the talented team at Cedar & Oak to delve into their design processes as a prominent design-build firm.
Cedar & Oak is a design-build firm that is committed to building timeless homes in Central Texas. Their approach prioritizes longevity without compromising aesthetic. With an unwavering commitment to quality, they consistently advocate for the use of sustainable materials, ensuring each home they build stands the test of time.
Cedar & Oak simplifies the design and construction journey for their clients. Guiding them through every phase with meticulous care, they ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Their mission is clear: “We exist to build beautiful, functional, healthy homes that you and your family can live in for years to come.”
DESIGNS BY CEDAR & OAK. ERA DESIGN HOUSE DOES NOT TAKE CREDIT FOR ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CONTENT. LEARN MORE ABOUT CEDAR & OAK HERE.
Sinclair I | photography by Chase Daniel
WHAT DIFFERENTIATES CEDAR & OAK?
“As a design-build company, we are a one-stop-shop for clients, we offer a comprehensive suite of services under one roof, we streamline the process for our clients, making it exceptionally convenient and simple. Our goal is to ensure that our clients enjoy a seamless and enjoyable experience while navigating the significant decision-making involved in building a home.”
WHAT IS YOUR SOURCE OF INSPIRATION FOR DESIGN?
"I find inspiration from all over. I grew up in different parts of the country and got to experience different architectural styles. From Texas ranches to St. Louis French brownstones in the city. The details, materials, and composition of these homes are unique to each area and I’m always excited to see what I can find when traveling. When a new project begins, I love to research the architectural style of home and use that information to implement design features as a nod to the original sources. When it comes to Pinterest, I prefer to use it as a visual source to grow the overall look-and-feel of the home, using bits and pieces that weave together a unique design."
photography by Chase Daniel | shop Sinclair I lighting here
WHAT IS YOUR DESIGN ETHOS OR PHILOSOPHY?
"Our design ethos revolves around the seamless integration of functionality, form, and aesthetic appeal. We focus on designing purposeful homes, ensuring that all the selections used within the home endure for years to come. Our team is committed to the use of resilient materials, artisanal craftsmanship, and timeless design with a twist."
HOW DO YOU STAY UP TO TRENDS WITHOUT BEING TOO TRENDY AND KEEPING THINGS TIMELESS?
"As a baseline, we tend to lean towards timeless finishes and materials. We like to incorporate trends in area’s that can easily be changed over time. For example, paint colors, light fixtures, furniture, wallpaper, etc. This allows for flexibility in your design as the years go by."
photography by Chase Daniel
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE DESIGN PROCESS?
"My favorite part of the design process is at the very beginning as I cast the overall vision for the project. I’m energized by new concepts and finding inspiration that spark unique and original designs that take every project one step further. Once I hone in the concept of the design, I feel the house take on a new life of its own and I really settle in."
WHAT ADVICE CAN YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO GET INTO THE INTERIOR DESIGN INDUSTRY?
"If design is something you’re passionate about then I say go for it! Sometimes we can convince ourselves that this industry is a crowded space, but the reality is being an interior designer has so much more opportunity than I ever realized! I quickly learned there is a whole world outside of residential design. Find your niche and follow your gut."
photography by Chase Daniel | shop Sinclair II lighting here
HOW DO YOU MANAGE WORKING CONTRACTORS AND SUBS WHEN THEY ARE NOT FAMILIAR WITH YOUR VISION?
“Fortunately, we’re supported by an exceptional team of subcontractors and project managers who help translate our design vision into reality. We work closely with them to resolve any challenges that arise. Additionally, our team prioritizes frequent on-site visits to ensure seamless communication and alignment throughout the project’s progression.”
WE NOTICED YOU IMPLEMENT MARBLE IN A LOT OF YOUR HOMES WHEN QUARTZ IS ALL THE RAGE – HOW DO YOU CONVINCE YOUR CLIENT THAT NATURAL STONE IS BETTER FOR THEIR HOME & THE ENVIORNMENT?
"We implement marble into all of our homes because we believe in the integrity of this natural material. We understand that often, people shy away from marble because of the upkeep. Because of this, we’ve learned to equip our clients with knowledge on how to care for their stone for years to come. Some marks are inevitable, but remember- your home is a living, breathing structure that grows and changes alongside you and your family... Just don’t put a lemon on it!"
photography by Chase Daniel