Well my friend Daryl says he won't become a follower of this blog unless I post weekly so this one is for you Daryl.
My sister is in town so I am taking some time off. No design advice this week but check back soon.
Jon
Have a design dilemma? Jon LaDosz, the lead designer at Furniture Affair is here to help.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Boring Bath
Dear Jon-
Our guest bath is soooo boring. White fixtures, brushed nickle hardware, builder beige tile floors and Arizona white wall make it blah and uninteresting. I would love for it to make a statement but am paralyzed into inaction. I don't know where to begin. All that white is overwhelming. The rest of our home is in warm nuetrals but I was hoping for something different. Please help.
Boring in Buckeye.
Dear BiB,
Classic white bath fixtures and brushed nickle hardware are perfect elements to build a wonderful guest bath around as they offer limitless possibilities. I also feel that guest baths are a great place to "step out of the box" and create a surprise space that will wow your guests.
The biggest impact will be color so pick a shade you've always liked but have never used. Dark, rich, dramatic tones are a warm and oppulent choice. I love when the color extends up to the ceiling creating a jewel box effect. Think topaz, amythest, lapis lazuli, jade. Paint all the trim white to tie in the fixtures and you've immediately created drama.
If you still have the builder standard plate mirror, now is the time to replace it with something with charm and character. A beautifully framed mirror adds instant architecture and has a big impact in a small space.
I really like fabric at the tub/shower, even if it already has glass doors. It adds warmth, pattern and texture. Take it from the ceiling to the floor to really up the wow factor.
Finish your space with some interesting wall art, accessories and fresh flowers and you will have a memorable room your guests can enjoy.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Creating A Home Theater
Dear Jon,
My family and I are big movie buffs and would like to create a special space to enjoy them. Any suggestions?
Hooray for Hollywood
Dear HfH,
What a great opportunity to create a special place for cherished family times
A room dedicated to movie watching is the ultimate luxury for movie buffs. Find a quiet out of the way location. Have a qualified professional determine the best audio video equipment for your space and budget and have it professionally installed. Now the fun part!
Padded and/or upholstered walls will give your home theater a cocoon like silence and add an air of sophistication and luxury. A dark rich tone will help focus your attention at the screen while a lighter shade will help expand small spaces and bold primary colors can create a fun and playful ambiance.
Think of the grand movie palaces of old when considering the style for your new space. A home theater is a great place to have some fun with your decorating style. Some classic choices include:
Art Deco- sinuous curves, metallic finishes, crystal and big black and white publicity shots are hallmarks of this style.
Neoclassic – black painted furniture with guilt accents, animal prints, small geometric and jewel toned accents are perfect for this look.
Edwardian- Red velvet, big gold braided fringe, carved dark wood accents and plush upholstery fabrics will all contribute to this lush and luxurious look.
Egyptian- Yes Egyptian. It was a classic look for movie theaters early in the last century and a fun and unexpected look to resurrect today. Sand colored carpets, billowing gauze fabric, sarcopogus and busts of King Tut and Nefroterri are obvious choices for this classic movie theater theme.
Obviously the most crucial piece of furniture is the seating and for that real movie theater feel nothing beats “theater seating” Reclining, with built in headrests, cup holders, and storage compartments these units offer the best in both comfort and style. Available in a myriad of fabrics and configurations choose one that is right for your room and your family. For that real theater feel, buy 2 and have a platform built for the back row. As little as 6” can make a big difference in the site lines and the final feel of your room.
Add dimmers to your lighting, a popcorn machine, framed movie posters and even a candy counter to complete your family friendly home theater.
Happy Viewing.
Jon
My family and I are big movie buffs and would like to create a special space to enjoy them. Any suggestions?
Hooray for Hollywood
Dear HfH,
What a great opportunity to create a special place for cherished family times
A room dedicated to movie watching is the ultimate luxury for movie buffs. Find a quiet out of the way location. Have a qualified professional determine the best audio video equipment for your space and budget and have it professionally installed. Now the fun part!
Padded and/or upholstered walls will give your home theater a cocoon like silence and add an air of sophistication and luxury. A dark rich tone will help focus your attention at the screen while a lighter shade will help expand small spaces and bold primary colors can create a fun and playful ambiance.
Think of the grand movie palaces of old when considering the style for your new space. A home theater is a great place to have some fun with your decorating style. Some classic choices include:
Art Deco- sinuous curves, metallic finishes, crystal and big black and white publicity shots are hallmarks of this style.
Neoclassic – black painted furniture with guilt accents, animal prints, small geometric and jewel toned accents are perfect for this look.
Edwardian- Red velvet, big gold braided fringe, carved dark wood accents and plush upholstery fabrics will all contribute to this lush and luxurious look.
Egyptian- Yes Egyptian. It was a classic look for movie theaters early in the last century and a fun and unexpected look to resurrect today. Sand colored carpets, billowing gauze fabric, sarcopogus and busts of King Tut and Nefroterri are obvious choices for this classic movie theater theme.
Obviously the most crucial piece of furniture is the seating and for that real movie theater feel nothing beats “theater seating” Reclining, with built in headrests, cup holders, and storage compartments these units offer the best in both comfort and style. Available in a myriad of fabrics and configurations choose one that is right for your room and your family. For that real theater feel, buy 2 and have a platform built for the back row. As little as 6” can make a big difference in the site lines and the final feel of your room.
Add dimmers to your lighting, a popcorn machine, framed movie posters and even a candy counter to complete your family friendly home theater.
Happy Viewing.
Jon
Monday, June 21, 2010
Room Arrangement for the Masses
Dear Jon,
I have a design dilemma of biblical proportions. I am the mother of four with two teenagers. We are quite involved in our church and host a variety of events in our home. Most recently we have agreed to host a weekly bible study in our home. It's the opportunity I've needed to purchase new upholstery. How do I create an inviting room with enough seating for a large group of people? I've considered a sectional but feel that forcing people to sit beside one another in a row for a bible study wouldn't be very comfortable.
Mt Carmel Sarah
Dear Sarah,
Creating a room that works for both a crowd and day to day family living can be a challenge but if you keep in mind the 4 "bilities" you can achieve a room that both looks and works great. They are: Flexibility, Durability, Compatibility and Affordability,
Flexibility is the key to achieving a room that works in many different configurations. I agree that a large sectional isn't conducive to conversation so consider a smaller sofa that seats 3-4. Pair this with a two club chairs with matching ottomans. Two chairs take up the same foot print as a loveseat yet offer much more versatility, are easier to move about, and are more comfortable for two people than sharing a loveseat. The ottomans are also easy to move and offer additional seating for two when you have a crowd and feet up comfort when it's just the family. By pulling these pieces into the center of the room you open up a corner that's perfect for a pair of occasional chairs. These can be pulled into the main seating area when needed and make a quiet spot for coffee and conversation when not entertaining. Instead of a traditional cocktail table consider an oversized ottoman or a sturdy bench or trunk to offer more even more flexible seating. If this still doesn't provide you with enough seating for your group consider folding chairs. "Ballroom" folding chairs are timeless, are now available in several finishes (in addition to the traditional gold) and store away easily when not in use.
With a family that includes 2 teenagers durability is an important consideration. Leather and micro fiber offers easy to clean maintenance and tough as nails wearabilty. When selecting case goods, keep in mind that distressed finishes are much easier to maintain than slick or highly polished pieces and can instantly add a lot of character and history to your space.
Compatibility is equally as important to the success of your room. Make sure that the pieces you select are of similar scale. Don't pair small delicate chairs with an overstuffed sofa or your room could end up feeling unbalanced.
Finally affordability means different things to different people. Just be certain to purchase the highest quality furniture your budget allows. Model Home furnishings offer unparalleled value and will help you stretch your decorating budget.
By following the 4 "bilities" you will have a space that's warm and comfortable for your family and perfect for when the crowds descend. Happy shopping!
Jon
I have a design dilemma of biblical proportions. I am the mother of four with two teenagers. We are quite involved in our church and host a variety of events in our home. Most recently we have agreed to host a weekly bible study in our home. It's the opportunity I've needed to purchase new upholstery. How do I create an inviting room with enough seating for a large group of people? I've considered a sectional but feel that forcing people to sit beside one another in a row for a bible study wouldn't be very comfortable.
Mt Carmel Sarah
Dear Sarah,
Creating a room that works for both a crowd and day to day family living can be a challenge but if you keep in mind the 4 "bilities" you can achieve a room that both looks and works great. They are: Flexibility, Durability, Compatibility and Affordability,
Flexibility is the key to achieving a room that works in many different configurations. I agree that a large sectional isn't conducive to conversation so consider a smaller sofa that seats 3-4. Pair this with a two club chairs with matching ottomans. Two chairs take up the same foot print as a loveseat yet offer much more versatility, are easier to move about, and are more comfortable for two people than sharing a loveseat. The ottomans are also easy to move and offer additional seating for two when you have a crowd and feet up comfort when it's just the family. By pulling these pieces into the center of the room you open up a corner that's perfect for a pair of occasional chairs. These can be pulled into the main seating area when needed and make a quiet spot for coffee and conversation when not entertaining. Instead of a traditional cocktail table consider an oversized ottoman or a sturdy bench or trunk to offer more even more flexible seating. If this still doesn't provide you with enough seating for your group consider folding chairs. "Ballroom" folding chairs are timeless, are now available in several finishes (in addition to the traditional gold) and store away easily when not in use.
With a family that includes 2 teenagers durability is an important consideration. Leather and micro fiber offers easy to clean maintenance and tough as nails wearabilty. When selecting case goods, keep in mind that distressed finishes are much easier to maintain than slick or highly polished pieces and can instantly add a lot of character and history to your space.
Compatibility is equally as important to the success of your room. Make sure that the pieces you select are of similar scale. Don't pair small delicate chairs with an overstuffed sofa or your room could end up feeling unbalanced.
Finally affordability means different things to different people. Just be certain to purchase the highest quality furniture your budget allows. Model Home furnishings offer unparalleled value and will help you stretch your decorating budget.
By following the 4 "bilities" you will have a space that's warm and comfortable for your family and perfect for when the crowds descend. Happy shopping!
Jon
Decorating with Whites and Lights
Dear Jon,
Are we compatible? I find I'm quite taken by the use of elegant natural tones in today's décor, but I'm not sure how my children will handle it. I'm not a sophisticated socialite but a real mom with a chaotic life and I don't want a living environment that is not compatible with my children and pets. Is there hope for such a choice?
Dear Hoping,
There is something special about the quiet elegance of a neutral décor and having kids and/or pets doesn't have to exclude you from this timeless design theme. By making smart decorating choices your rooms can look good for years to come.
A creamy backdrop is easy to achieve with a high quality latex scrubbable paint. Avoid delicate wall coverings but don't shy away from today's durable and easy care vinyl coverings. The key to a successful neutral décor is varying textures and a vinyl embossed paper is a great way to add durable texture. Don't forget the ceiling. The often overlooked 5th wall is another opportunity to reinforce your design direction.
Obviously hard surface flooring such as stone, tile, hardwood or laminate is going to be more durable than wall to wall carpeting and with so many colors and finishes to choose from finding the perfect choice is easier than ever. An easy to send out to be cleaned area rug can help warm things up. Or consider a rug made for outdoor use; they are color fast, look and feel fantastic and clean up with a garden hose.
When it comes to selecting furnishings cleanability and durability are the key attributes to keep in mind. Today's synthetics hold up to kids, pets, and daily wear and tear. For the last several years microfiber has been a very popular choice. It's suede like appearance and
feel belies its rugged durability and a scrub brush and some soapy water is all it takes to clean up most stains.
White and creamy leathers are a beautiful and practical choice for an active family. Sleek and sophisticated or plush and overstuffed, neutral colored leather upholstery from a quality manufacturer will last for years with a quick wipe down. Look for fully protected aniline dyed leathers to assure years of worry free comfort and style.
When you are selecting case goods consider some of these options. For a more casual, relaxed feel painted and distressed furniture is an obvious choice and any nicks or scratches the kids may add only improve the time worn patina. In addition, weathered woods in cool neutrals are an excellent choice. Think sun bleached to get an idea of this hot decorating trend.
You know the old saying that everything comes back in style, well that is certainly true of lacquered furniture, which was all the rage at this year's High Point furniture market. Ivory's, creams, whites and ecrus with very little hardware distinguish it from its' 80's counterparts. (no brass, yeah!)
Lacquer is a hard and tough finish although finger prints can be an issue on its' ultra shiny surface.
With some wise decorating decisions you and your family can enjoy an elegant and neutral interior that truly reflects your design personality.
Jon
Are we compatible? I find I'm quite taken by the use of elegant natural tones in today's décor, but I'm not sure how my children will handle it. I'm not a sophisticated socialite but a real mom with a chaotic life and I don't want a living environment that is not compatible with my children and pets. Is there hope for such a choice?
Dear Hoping,
There is something special about the quiet elegance of a neutral décor and having kids and/or pets doesn't have to exclude you from this timeless design theme. By making smart decorating choices your rooms can look good for years to come.
A creamy backdrop is easy to achieve with a high quality latex scrubbable paint. Avoid delicate wall coverings but don't shy away from today's durable and easy care vinyl coverings. The key to a successful neutral décor is varying textures and a vinyl embossed paper is a great way to add durable texture. Don't forget the ceiling. The often overlooked 5th wall is another opportunity to reinforce your design direction.
Obviously hard surface flooring such as stone, tile, hardwood or laminate is going to be more durable than wall to wall carpeting and with so many colors and finishes to choose from finding the perfect choice is easier than ever. An easy to send out to be cleaned area rug can help warm things up. Or consider a rug made for outdoor use; they are color fast, look and feel fantastic and clean up with a garden hose.
When it comes to selecting furnishings cleanability and durability are the key attributes to keep in mind. Today's synthetics hold up to kids, pets, and daily wear and tear. For the last several years microfiber has been a very popular choice. It's suede like appearance and
feel belies its rugged durability and a scrub brush and some soapy water is all it takes to clean up most stains.
White and creamy leathers are a beautiful and practical choice for an active family. Sleek and sophisticated or plush and overstuffed, neutral colored leather upholstery from a quality manufacturer will last for years with a quick wipe down. Look for fully protected aniline dyed leathers to assure years of worry free comfort and style.
When you are selecting case goods consider some of these options. For a more casual, relaxed feel painted and distressed furniture is an obvious choice and any nicks or scratches the kids may add only improve the time worn patina. In addition, weathered woods in cool neutrals are an excellent choice. Think sun bleached to get an idea of this hot decorating trend.
You know the old saying that everything comes back in style, well that is certainly true of lacquered furniture, which was all the rage at this year's High Point furniture market. Ivory's, creams, whites and ecrus with very little hardware distinguish it from its' 80's counterparts. (no brass, yeah!)
Lacquer is a hard and tough finish although finger prints can be an issue on its' ultra shiny surface.
With some wise decorating decisions you and your family can enjoy an elegant and neutral interior that truly reflects your design personality.
Jon
Dear Jon,
How do I know what's real and what's window dressing? Upholstered furniture confuses me. Can you help me navigate the murky waters?
Confused
Dear Confused-
Like any other product, the quality of upholstered furniture can vary greatly from manufacturer to manufacturer; but there are a few guidelines to help you in your shopping.
One of the easiest to identify is weight. A piece should feel heavy for its size. This indicates a hard wood has been used for its frame; and spring construction is from a heavy gauge metal.
Also look for attention to detail in the upholstery. Seams should be tight and straight, cushions should fit snugly, pleats (when present) should be all the same size and evenly spaced and welting should be straight and even.
Patterns in fabric should be perfectly matched and aligned and the overall quality of the fabric is also a good indicator of the product quality.
If the piece has tufting, they too should be evenly spaced and the same tightness and depth. Exposed wood should be smooth and evenly finished.
Jon
How do I know what's real and what's window dressing? Upholstered furniture confuses me. Can you help me navigate the murky waters?
Confused
Dear Confused-
Like any other product, the quality of upholstered furniture can vary greatly from manufacturer to manufacturer; but there are a few guidelines to help you in your shopping.
One of the easiest to identify is weight. A piece should feel heavy for its size. This indicates a hard wood has been used for its frame; and spring construction is from a heavy gauge metal.
Also look for attention to detail in the upholstery. Seams should be tight and straight, cushions should fit snugly, pleats (when present) should be all the same size and evenly spaced and welting should be straight and even.
Patterns in fabric should be perfectly matched and aligned and the overall quality of the fabric is also a good indicator of the product quality.
If the piece has tufting, they too should be evenly spaced and the same tightness and depth. Exposed wood should be smooth and evenly finished.
Jon
DEAR JON,
I have found my epic love. He is Antony to my Cleopatra. How do I merge our two very different styles into one home that we are both happy with?
Cleo
Dear Cleo,
Sometimes it's hard making the perfect barge for smooth sailing down the Nile. Ok. That's my one and only Egyptian reference, I promise. The truth is it can be a challenge when two divergent design styles merge.
The first step is to pare down and eliminate any piece(s) you can live without. Not only will this earn you points with your true love but it makes room for a few new purchases that you agree on together. Another approach is to take turns selecting piece(s) you love that you agree to use somewhere in your home.
Next, look for a common denominator to build on. One of the easiest to identify is color. Consider painting a few pieces of furniture from each style a single unifying color and you have instant coordination. The same can be achieved with unifying fabric, 2 different chairs upholstered in the same fabric can look spectacular together.
You can also take a separate but equal approach. Divide up the rooms evenly and each of you decorates them to your own taste. This works best in older homes where spaces are separate and clearly defined. You may find it refreshing and it can help avoid monotony. Certainly this is more difficult to achieve successfully in today's open floor plans.
For the ultimate solution, sell and/or donate everything and start from scratch building a home that truly reflects who you are as a couple. Having sold the contents of my own home last year I can assure you that after the initial piece is sold the rest gets easier. It's also very liberating. As the saying goes "out of sight out of mind."
Like every other aspect of a successful relationship designing a home together is all about compromise, being open to new ideas, and truly listening to your partner's needs and desires.
The Egyptians weren't destroyed; they were a-Nile-ated. Work together to avoid the same in your household (I know I promised but I couldn't resist).
Jon
I have found my epic love. He is Antony to my Cleopatra. How do I merge our two very different styles into one home that we are both happy with?
Cleo
Dear Cleo,
Sometimes it's hard making the perfect barge for smooth sailing down the Nile. Ok. That's my one and only Egyptian reference, I promise. The truth is it can be a challenge when two divergent design styles merge.
The first step is to pare down and eliminate any piece(s) you can live without. Not only will this earn you points with your true love but it makes room for a few new purchases that you agree on together. Another approach is to take turns selecting piece(s) you love that you agree to use somewhere in your home.
Next, look for a common denominator to build on. One of the easiest to identify is color. Consider painting a few pieces of furniture from each style a single unifying color and you have instant coordination. The same can be achieved with unifying fabric, 2 different chairs upholstered in the same fabric can look spectacular together.
You can also take a separate but equal approach. Divide up the rooms evenly and each of you decorates them to your own taste. This works best in older homes where spaces are separate and clearly defined. You may find it refreshing and it can help avoid monotony. Certainly this is more difficult to achieve successfully in today's open floor plans.
For the ultimate solution, sell and/or donate everything and start from scratch building a home that truly reflects who you are as a couple. Having sold the contents of my own home last year I can assure you that after the initial piece is sold the rest gets easier. It's also very liberating. As the saying goes "out of sight out of mind."
Like every other aspect of a successful relationship designing a home together is all about compromise, being open to new ideas, and truly listening to your partner's needs and desires.
The Egyptians weren't destroyed; they were a-Nile-ated. Work together to avoid the same in your household (I know I promised but I couldn't resist).
Jon
Accent Tables
DEAR JON,
I always fall for an accent, even when there's little substance. Can you help me be more discerning in my choice of accent tables?
Attracted to Accents
Dear ATA,
I'm a sucker for a great accent also. Everything sounds better in an accent; and every room looks better with one too!
Accent tables (end, coffee/cocktail and console/sofa tables) are a wonderful opportunity to reinforce your design style. Or they can be used to set a whole new and unexpected tone by choosing a different, but complimentary, style.
In the past, matching sets were the standard choice for accent tables. Today a more personal and interesting room can be achieved by mixing them up a little. For example, if your end tables match each other, compliment them with a different cocktail table. Or add a unique console table to your mix to add interest and generate conversation. A traditionally furnished room is so much more interesting when you add a contemporary cocktail table; and a modern room benefits from a touch of tradition. Viva la différence!
A change of wood finish and/or color is also a great option. One painted piece added to the mix of natural wood finishes can really energize a space.
As in all your furniture selections, choosing the appropriate scale is critical. Don't pair a spindle legged end table with a chunky oversized coffee table. Also, make sure they all are in proper scale to the upholstery in the space.
Accent tables aren't just for living and family rooms. Foyers, hallways, even bathrooms can gain a lot of personality with the addition of a well chosen accent.
So whether you choose that traditional console table, a funky end table or an ultra modern cocktail table, your room's accent will be music to your ears.
I always fall for an accent, even when there's little substance. Can you help me be more discerning in my choice of accent tables?
Attracted to Accents
Dear ATA,
I'm a sucker for a great accent also. Everything sounds better in an accent; and every room looks better with one too!
Accent tables (end, coffee/cocktail and console/sofa tables) are a wonderful opportunity to reinforce your design style. Or they can be used to set a whole new and unexpected tone by choosing a different, but complimentary, style.
In the past, matching sets were the standard choice for accent tables. Today a more personal and interesting room can be achieved by mixing them up a little. For example, if your end tables match each other, compliment them with a different cocktail table. Or add a unique console table to your mix to add interest and generate conversation. A traditionally furnished room is so much more interesting when you add a contemporary cocktail table; and a modern room benefits from a touch of tradition. Viva la différence!
A change of wood finish and/or color is also a great option. One painted piece added to the mix of natural wood finishes can really energize a space.
As in all your furniture selections, choosing the appropriate scale is critical. Don't pair a spindle legged end table with a chunky oversized coffee table. Also, make sure they all are in proper scale to the upholstery in the space.
Accent tables aren't just for living and family rooms. Foyers, hallways, even bathrooms can gain a lot of personality with the addition of a well chosen accent.
So whether you choose that traditional console table, a funky end table or an ultra modern cocktail table, your room's accent will be music to your ears.
Working with a Neutral Palette
Dear Jon,
Although we like most of our furniture and accessories, our room seems boring. We've kept our upholstery and flooring a versatile neutral beige and now no matter what we do we can't seem to generate any excitement. Any ideas to add some "wow" without a big expense?
Beige and Boring
Dear B&B,
Although you may be second guessing your choice of neutral upholstery, it is the perfect starting point for a warm and exciting room. One of the least expensive and easiest ways to add interest to a space is with color. A few gallons of paint and an afternoon of effort can create a completely new space.
Almost anything can act as color inspiration. A painting or print, a piece of pottery, or even your favorite scarf or blouse can provide just the spark you need to get started.
In addition, every year color analysts within the paint industry predict hot colors for the coming year. Color trends for this year range from softer tans to the big new neutral; warm gray. Pair it with tans, whites, and creams for a relaxing Zen-like feel.
Turquoise and teal are also back in a big way. A little richer and warmer than their 70's counterparts, these hues impart your room with a relaxing yet vibrant feel.
Lavenders and Purples are being revitalized this season too. A great companion to the new gray they also work well with neutrals and white and offer a sophisticated and unexpected background to your interiors.
In addition to deciding on what color, you must also decide what areas to paint. For well proportioned rooms keep all 4 walls the same color but for long and narrow rooms consider painting the back walls a darker color or tone to help visually shorten up the room . Don't forget the fifth wall - the ceiling. Ceilings don't automatically have to be white. In fact most rooms can benefit with a little color on the ceiling.
Not sure of your color choice? Paint 3x5 poster board with the color(s) you are considering and tack them up in different areas of your space. Look at it in different light at different times of the day and adjust the hue or tone accordingly. And remember, relax. It's just paint and can easily and inexpensively be changed.
Now scatter that new wall color throughout the room in toss pillows, candles, accessories and art. You will have an exciting and vibrant room in no time.
Good Luck,
Jon
Although we like most of our furniture and accessories, our room seems boring. We've kept our upholstery and flooring a versatile neutral beige and now no matter what we do we can't seem to generate any excitement. Any ideas to add some "wow" without a big expense?
Beige and Boring
Dear B&B,
Although you may be second guessing your choice of neutral upholstery, it is the perfect starting point for a warm and exciting room. One of the least expensive and easiest ways to add interest to a space is with color. A few gallons of paint and an afternoon of effort can create a completely new space.
Almost anything can act as color inspiration. A painting or print, a piece of pottery, or even your favorite scarf or blouse can provide just the spark you need to get started.
In addition, every year color analysts within the paint industry predict hot colors for the coming year. Color trends for this year range from softer tans to the big new neutral; warm gray. Pair it with tans, whites, and creams for a relaxing Zen-like feel.
Turquoise and teal are also back in a big way. A little richer and warmer than their 70's counterparts, these hues impart your room with a relaxing yet vibrant feel.
Lavenders and Purples are being revitalized this season too. A great companion to the new gray they also work well with neutrals and white and offer a sophisticated and unexpected background to your interiors.
In addition to deciding on what color, you must also decide what areas to paint. For well proportioned rooms keep all 4 walls the same color but for long and narrow rooms consider painting the back walls a darker color or tone to help visually shorten up the room . Don't forget the fifth wall - the ceiling. Ceilings don't automatically have to be white. In fact most rooms can benefit with a little color on the ceiling.
Not sure of your color choice? Paint 3x5 poster board with the color(s) you are considering and tack them up in different areas of your space. Look at it in different light at different times of the day and adjust the hue or tone accordingly. And remember, relax. It's just paint and can easily and inexpensively be changed.
Now scatter that new wall color throughout the room in toss pillows, candles, accessories and art. You will have an exciting and vibrant room in no time.
Good Luck,
Jon
Dear Jon,
I'm ready for a spring housecleaning now that the weather is getting warmer. What can I do to freshen up the look of my house?
Fresh and Fab
Dear Fresh and Fab,
Thanks for your timely question. Spring is an ideal time to refresh your interior and after getting everything sparkling clean there are several easy and inexpensive ways to get started.
No cost decorating includes rearranging your furniture to a new orientation. Not sure how to start? Empty the room of all but the biggest pieces then place those first, adding smaller pieces and accessories as you go. Also if your room has heavy drapes, send them out to be cleaned (and have the cleaner store them for the season) and replace them with inexpensive blinds or shades. Now you are really ready to get started.
Declutter: Eliminate excess on table surfaces. A few well chosen accessories will have a greater impact and a cleaner and airier look than a bunch of small knick knacks.
Change Out Your Wall Art: Look for new art in a cleaner and brighter palette. Go bigger and bolder to really make a statement.
Swap out your accent pillows. Keeping them fresh and bright can really change the look of your upholstery without spending a lot money.
Roll Up Your Area Rugs. Let your bare floors shine or replace your heavier rugs with sea grass, sisal, or other natural materials. A pastel colored Dhurri is also a great choice.
Update your lighting: You would be surprised how big a change switching out your lamps can have on the overall look and feel of your room.
Bring the Outdoors In: Add greenery and floral arrangements to every room in your house. They really breathe life into your space. If you don't have a green thumb (like me) today's silks are hard to tell from the real thing.
Remember any of our talented Interior Advisors are available to assist you and with our huge selection of art and accessories a new look for Spring is just a shopping trip away.
Good luck and happy cleaning.
Jon
I'm ready for a spring housecleaning now that the weather is getting warmer. What can I do to freshen up the look of my house?
Fresh and Fab
Dear Fresh and Fab,
Thanks for your timely question. Spring is an ideal time to refresh your interior and after getting everything sparkling clean there are several easy and inexpensive ways to get started.
No cost decorating includes rearranging your furniture to a new orientation. Not sure how to start? Empty the room of all but the biggest pieces then place those first, adding smaller pieces and accessories as you go. Also if your room has heavy drapes, send them out to be cleaned (and have the cleaner store them for the season) and replace them with inexpensive blinds or shades. Now you are really ready to get started.
Declutter: Eliminate excess on table surfaces. A few well chosen accessories will have a greater impact and a cleaner and airier look than a bunch of small knick knacks.
Change Out Your Wall Art: Look for new art in a cleaner and brighter palette. Go bigger and bolder to really make a statement.
Swap out your accent pillows. Keeping them fresh and bright can really change the look of your upholstery without spending a lot money.
Roll Up Your Area Rugs. Let your bare floors shine or replace your heavier rugs with sea grass, sisal, or other natural materials. A pastel colored Dhurri is also a great choice.
Update your lighting: You would be surprised how big a change switching out your lamps can have on the overall look and feel of your room.
Bring the Outdoors In: Add greenery and floral arrangements to every room in your house. They really breathe life into your space. If you don't have a green thumb (like me) today's silks are hard to tell from the real thing.
Remember any of our talented Interior Advisors are available to assist you and with our huge selection of art and accessories a new look for Spring is just a shopping trip away.
Good luck and happy cleaning.
Jon
Getting Started
Dear Jon,
What is the best way to get started on decorating a room? I get so confused when I go shopping and afraid to make a mistake that I end up buying nothing! I like this, I like that, but does it go together? I have lived in my house for three years and still have a room with nothing in it-Clueless
Dear Clueless,
Thanks for the excellent question.
It's a problem many people face and there are a few ways to overcome it.
First analyze the space, the number and ages of the people who will be using it and the function(s) you need it to perform. Remember just because the floor plan calls it a dining room it doesn't have to be used for dining. Maybe an office, game room, or media room better suits your needs, Take accurate measurements of the space including window locations before you go shopping to assure the perfect fit.
If you are starting from scratch look for an inspiration piece to get you started. A beautiful rug, fabulous painting, or knockout furniture piece can really help set the tone and start to define the style. Not sure of the look you want? A favorite vacation, location, or memory can be an excellent place to start.
When shopping keep the function, look, and scale of the pieces you are considering in mind. Also consider the things you cannot/will not be changing such as the floor covering. If you have them bring samples of the flooring, paint and any exisiting fabrics shopping with you. Digital pictures of the space can also be very helpful. Proper scale (both for the space and the other pieces) is imperative to a successful room. Don't pair a delicate table with a big overstuffed chair.
Any good furniture store will be happy to move pieces you are considering into a vignette so you can get a clear idea of how the items work together. At Furniture Affair we do this all the time. If you are considering pieces from more than one store take a digital picture and accurate measurements of the pieces you are considering to make sure they work successfully together.
Also many stores (Furniture Affair included) offer in home design consultations. This is a great way to have an experienced designer help you achieve the perfect room. Although many people are intimidated by working with a designer for fear that it will be expensive and that they will end up with a room in the designers style and not theirs. The fact is the opposite is true. A qualified designer will help you define you goals and style and will save you money by helping eliminate expensive mistakes.
Most of all relax and have fun with the process. Take your time, consider the above points, and buy what you love. You will end up with a room your family and friends will enjoy for years to come.
Happy Shopping,
Jon
What is the best way to get started on decorating a room? I get so confused when I go shopping and afraid to make a mistake that I end up buying nothing! I like this, I like that, but does it go together? I have lived in my house for three years and still have a room with nothing in it-Clueless
Dear Clueless,
Thanks for the excellent question.
It's a problem many people face and there are a few ways to overcome it.
First analyze the space, the number and ages of the people who will be using it and the function(s) you need it to perform. Remember just because the floor plan calls it a dining room it doesn't have to be used for dining. Maybe an office, game room, or media room better suits your needs, Take accurate measurements of the space including window locations before you go shopping to assure the perfect fit.
If you are starting from scratch look for an inspiration piece to get you started. A beautiful rug, fabulous painting, or knockout furniture piece can really help set the tone and start to define the style. Not sure of the look you want? A favorite vacation, location, or memory can be an excellent place to start.
When shopping keep the function, look, and scale of the pieces you are considering in mind. Also consider the things you cannot/will not be changing such as the floor covering. If you have them bring samples of the flooring, paint and any exisiting fabrics shopping with you. Digital pictures of the space can also be very helpful. Proper scale (both for the space and the other pieces) is imperative to a successful room. Don't pair a delicate table with a big overstuffed chair.
Any good furniture store will be happy to move pieces you are considering into a vignette so you can get a clear idea of how the items work together. At Furniture Affair we do this all the time. If you are considering pieces from more than one store take a digital picture and accurate measurements of the pieces you are considering to make sure they work successfully together.
Also many stores (Furniture Affair included) offer in home design consultations. This is a great way to have an experienced designer help you achieve the perfect room. Although many people are intimidated by working with a designer for fear that it will be expensive and that they will end up with a room in the designers style and not theirs. The fact is the opposite is true. A qualified designer will help you define you goals and style and will save you money by helping eliminate expensive mistakes.
Most of all relax and have fun with the process. Take your time, consider the above points, and buy what you love. You will end up with a room your family and friends will enjoy for years to come.
Happy Shopping,
Jon
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)