Decorating & Design
June 1, 2022
10 Things We Learned From Studio McGee’s Netflix Show
It’s no surprise that we’re obsessed with Studio McGee. If you didn’t already watch our IG Live with co-founder Shea McGee, check out the interview here, where Shea shares tips on her signature decorating style, paint colors and more! The husband and wife duo behind the popular design firm, Syd and Shea McGee, are beloved for their modern rustic style and approachable design tips sprinkled throughout their Instagram feed. With over 3 million followers, a successful retail store, McGee & Co., a retail collaboration with Target, a reality television series, and a new design book on the way, it’s safe to say these two are busy! Season 1 of Dream Home Makeover debuted on Netflix in October 2020, and we’re already anticipating the release of season 3! The show is an invitation into Syd and Shea’s busy lives as they build and design dream spaces and take care of their three daughters.
Scroll down to discover 10 design tips we stole from the show!
Styling Shelves Is Harder Than It Looks
In Syd and Shea’s Salt Lake City, Utah, home, two deep blue built-ins flanking the limestone fireplace are filled with treasures the couple has collected over time. “Objects, and how you put them together, really set the tone for the space,” says Shea. “The point is to make it look easy and feel good.” Between the beautiful woven baskets, family picture frames and sculpted accessories, you can see her struggle to find the perfect arrangement. So, it’s okay if it takes time (and a couple tries)!
Mix & Match Your Seating
With a living room this spacious, why stop at just one type of seating? Shea chose a “classy couch” (left) and a “lounge couch” (right) for their living room, plus a pair of deep wooden chairs and textured ottomans for a dynamic look.
The Bedroom Should Mirror The Rest Of Your Home
If you don’t know where to start with your principal bedroom, draw inspiration from your other rooms. “I like to take one or two colors or textures from the main part of the house and pull them in,” advises Shea. This creates a sense of flow.
A Freestanding Tub Is A Must
Syd jokes about her dream bathtub she’s had in their garage for over a year. “It’s for me to look at,” says Shea with a laugh. “‘Cause you’re not gonna use it,” adds Syd. Once it’s installed though, you can see why their principal bathroom needs it: the curved tub, tucked right under a window, is the perfect place to soak their stresses away.
Moody Hues Work In Small Spaces
“Stay away from colors and dark tones in compact quarters, especially in a basement.” This myth has been around for as long as we can remember, and in homeowner Trey Ennis’ reimagined movie room, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Dark navy panelled walls create an intimate feeling, while a plaid rug and leather sectional brighten things up.
One Room Really Can Do It All
Living room, dining room and home office? Seems like a big ask, but with proper space planning and a bit of creative thinking (okay, a lot), Shea pulled it off. Homeowners Zann and Emily Call now have a hardworking hangout for entertaining, playing with the kids and catching up on emails.
You Don’t Have To Agree On A Single Style
Shea and Syd just so happen to have the same design taste, but their clients, Oscar and Diana Ramos weren’t in the same boat. Diana’s love of bohemian and Oscar’s more modern style seemed like a challenge at first, but Shea was able to combine the two seamlessly, which worked well with the home’s mid-century modern style.
Splurge On The Staples, Save On The Accessories
Oscar and Diana’s young daughters jumped for joy when they saw their new bedroom, complete with a play tent, crafts table and bunk bed. Since the girls are growing up fast, Shea wanted to make sure they could easily switch out the accessories when the time comes. Tassels, on the other hand, are timeless!
Too Much Wood Can Be Overwhelming
In episode 5, Shea overhauls a converted barn’s upstairs family room. The floor was covered in green carpet and all of the original wood (from 1851) made it feel dark and dingy. Lesson learned: there is such a thing as too much wood. She paid homage to the barn’s history by keeping some of the beautiful beams and whitewashing the ceiling for a brighter, fresher look.
White Kitchens Don’t Have To Be Boring
Shea gave this dated kitchen new life by replacing the old wood cabinets, awkward island and unused pantry. The final result is spectacular! This all-white kitchen is anything but sterile thanks to a mix of brushed brass and stainless steel hardware, gilded pendants and hits of natural wood.
Courtesy of Netflix