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Blending Spaces

Achieving Seamless Style Across Every Shade, Structure and Surface

Article by Nicole Browning

Photography by Olga Polo Photography

Originally published in Loveland Lifestyle

They say home is where the heart is—so shouldn’t your home be a place that sparks joy? A place that really feels like you? Absolutely yes. But if you’re not sure where to start with this outward manifestation, look no further than Julia Bender Interiors. With 19 years of experience, you’re in willing and capable hands.

A small, independent design company, no project is too big or too small. “I work on new home constructions from the very first slab laid or foundation poured. I do everything—new home construction to remodels, kitchen to bath additions,” Julia Bender, owner and lead designer, explains of the projects she’s willing to take on. From helping you select what paint color will look best in your new home to simply adding window treatments in an already existing space, there’s nothing Julia won’t (can’t!) do when it comes to interior design.

From the get-go, Julia sets herself and her company apart by offering a computer rendering of your design to kick the project off—not something every design firm offers. Another unique approach? “Sustainable and natural designs—they’re really important to me,” says Julia. Whether that’s buying Made in the USA or shopping furniture companies that only use sustainable wood, Julia tries to be deliberate about where her items are coming from. “Everyone is getting more conscious these days about what they’re putting on or in their bodies, and for me, that also extends to your surroundings. I’m conscious about what I add to my clients’ homes, taking a holistic approach to design.”

Recently, Julia finished up this gorgeous natural modern new-build ... a brand-new construction where Julia was involved with the whole process. “This client was a little bit more hands off. They gave me an idea of how they functioned and what was comfortable for them, but then they said ‘Just show us what you think would look good,’” Julia smiles. And while clients are always welcome (and encouraged) to be as involved as they’d like, it’s often a wise idea to give your designer some space to stretch their creative freedom—which Julia did and pulled off beautifully with this design.

The openness of the space moves flawlessly from room to room, blending thematic colors and textures, which was key to creating an aesthetic that truly flowed. Julia has been in this business for a long time—a key element when creating such beautiful designs—but there are some tricks to creating this effect, working to keep a level of consistency through the whole home to help pull the design together. This was done in several ways, including through color. “I went neutral with a lot of the main pieces of furniture, and then I was able to pop accent colors into different rooms. Those natural, neutral pieces acted as the anchor, which was consistent throughout.” Another way she tied everything together was with materials and textures—Julia chose similar materials in different rooms, many of them evoking earthy, natural textures.

Working with Julia means you’re in good, capable hands. She’s passionate about every detail. “Even though I’m the one doing the designing, it truly is a collaborative effort between me and the client,” she promises. It’s not turning your space over to a designer, it’s finding a team player who will listen to your needs, consider your wants and create the perfect space for you and your family.

“My approach is truly client-focused. I’m a people person, and I love getting to know people. I ask questions about the client, how they live, what their needs and wants are, and I get a good sense of their style. You can learn a lot about a person just by listening—and I’m a good listener. My job is to create a functional but aesthetically pleasing space where you can find joy and comfort.”

JuliaBenderInteriors.com | 513.889.6478

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