Making the World Beautiful, One Room At A Time!

Brighten Up Your Home With Paint

2012-01-24T15:08:00.000-05:00

It's easy to brighten up your home décor and create a festive atmosphere all year 'round with the simple use of paint.

When special occasions roll around, you are bound to be busy entertaining family and friends with everything from simple hors d'oeuvres and cocktails to a full sit-down extravaganza.
You may have planned the meal you will serve down to the last detail, but you're not so sure of what do to with the little time you have left to create an attractive, welcoming décor.
Here are some tips you can use to quickly spruce up the areas of your home where you'll be entertaining.

In a dining or living room, you can choose a shade bolder than the existing paint color on the walls to create a splash of color that'll instantly add pizzazz and style.
You can paint smaller spaces like your bathroom to refresh the wall color.
To liven up the look of any room, apply a fresh coat of paint to your trim and other accents.

Your table setting is another versatile decorating element that you can use to make your home more colorful and festive. Simply choose a color theme that echoes the wall and trim colors and follow it through with the tablecloth and dinner napkins.
So charm your guests with your décor ideas all year 'round with the creative use of paint color.

Fun Rooms for Everyone

2011-12-03T22:39:00.001-05:00

Fun Rooms for Everyone!

What do children’s rooms and family rooms and garden rooms have in common? Why, an opportunity to let your imagination soar with unbridled passion and creativity - .that’s what! These rooms can, and should be pure fun to decorate, and pure fun to enjoy being in. No rules, no formality – anything goes!

Be bright and gay and inventive. These are the rooms for colorful cartoons, posters, graphics and fantasies. Be uninhibited in colors and furnishings.

There is one steadfast rule however. These rooms must be carefree since there are bound to be spilled drinks or muddy shoes. It’s easy to plan it that way in this era of easy-care miracles. Fabrics are permanently pressed, stain resistant and soil retardant. So why not take advantage of all the bonuses to easy maintenance.

Tips for Organization for the Holiday's

2011-11-19T13:54:00.000-05:00

Gain more holiday time to spend where it matters most - with loved ones. These tips from expert organizers make it possible It’s supposed to be the time of year when we can relax with loved ones.

1. Keeping it all Together. We have shopping lists, grocery lists, entertaining needs, and greeting card lists. Combine them all in one holiday binder so everything is at your fingertips.

2. Shop by category. When going through your gift list, sort by category and then do all that shopping at once. For example, all your music and books can be bought together from somewhere like Amazon.com. You’ll save time, money, and sometimes shipping charges, Sullivan says. Same thing with, say, electronics. Sort them all together and just make one trip.

3. Wrap smart. Set up a wrapping station and wrap your presents all at once. Gather everything, from the tape to the wrapping paper, so you’re ready to go instead of running around the house looking for the scissors. If you take gifts to two or three different houses for the holidays, wrap gifts that are going to one house or family all in the same paper. This will make identifying gifts easy when packing and unpacking the car.

4. Specialize your food. When planning meals, many of us go overboard, idealistically hoping to prepare a few dozen items. Instead, serve a few tasty, popular items and just be sure there’s plenty for everyone, recommends Sullivan.

5. Buy en masse. If you have found one really cool gift, maybe several people will like it, suggests professional organizer Barbara Reich, who founded Resourceful Consultants in 1999.

6. Beat the rush. Take advantage of odd hours to beat mall or other travel traffic. Early in the week—such as Monday and Tuesday mornings—are good to head to the store to stock up on holiday groceries, says Sullivan.

7. Stock up on gift cards. Buy a few gift cards of different denominations from different types of stores. These make great last-minute gifts.

8. Do the dip early. Whether you’re rushing around or just get invited to a last-minute party, have all your ingredients handy for go-to dip that’s quick and easy to make.

9. Treat yourself to help. Most hosts and hostesses miss their own party because they’re too busy filling glasses and cleaning up. The economical solution? Enlist a high school student who can clean up and refill platters - it will save you loads of time and won’t cost a lot of money.

10. Avoid last-minute errands. These can be some of the biggest time wasters. Run out of wrapping paper? Try substituting your kids’ artwork if you’re wrapping a gift for their grandparents. Other ideas: old maps, any kind of fabric (a pillowcase or a scarf), or that plastic tablecloth you bought just in case but haven’t used yet. My favorite though is using wallpaper. It's economical and beautiful.Missing an ingredient? See what else you may be able to use with the help of iPhone app Smart Chef Substitutions ($1.99).

Decorative Fibers – Which one is right for your home?

2011-11-10T19:47:00.000-05:00

What fabrics will be the best choice for you to consider for your home? Window treatments, furniture, accent pieces, decorative pillows, bedding ensembles are all places that decorative fabrics can be beautifully and creatively used. With the multitude of man-made and natural fibers available from which to select, it pays to do a little homework.

Natural Fibers. Cotton has always been the number one choice of designers and homeowners alike. Cotton dyes well, and has unlimited styling potential. It tends to have a “soft hand”, and doesn’t pill or fuzz. It’s an extremely durable fabric, and can be blended with other fibers in a textile. Cotton can be made into beautiful, full-bodied fabrics and has long been the favorite of upholsterers. A custom drapery made from 100% cotton fabric will be crisp or flowing, depending upon the type of fabric weave.

Wool Fibers. Known for being springy, resilient, soft and kinky, wood fibers are extremely durable. After bleaching, wood may be easily dyed and the fiber will retain its color depth for a very long period of time. It is also a very expensive fiber, and for this reason you will rarely see it in decorative fabrics. Wool tends to be used more for upholstery, area rugs and carpeting rather than draperies.

Silk. Known for its natural luster, silk is undeniably one of the most beautiful decorative fibers of all. There are many grades of silk, and many times silk is blended with other fibers during the manufacturing process. Strong light may tend to discolor silk and might even disintegrate the fiber. Today’s manufacturers have woven many fabulous designs into silk fabrics – including the popular embroidered silks.

Polyester. A man-made fiber, polyester is used quite often in decorative textiles because of its strength. Another great characteristic of this strong fiber is its ability to stand up under strong sunlight. Textiles of polyester are also abrasion-resistant, have a soft, warm “hand” and dye extremely well. It may be used for both drapery and upholstery fabric.

Probably the most often used textile is a combination of polyester and cotton. The best characteristics of both fibers are incorporated to produce an extremely versatile and nicely priced fabric.

Naturally, there are many other fibers used in decorative textiles, but these are the most common. As you become more familiar with the many characteristics of fibers found in decorative textiles, choosing the right fabric for your needs becomes clear.

Decorating Solutions for Small Spaces!

2011-11-03T07:51:00.000-04:00

“Economically scaled” – or smaller homes - can present big decorating opportunities. Bungalows, ranch-style homes, townhouses and condominiums offer the decorating challenge of using available space efficiently and beautifully. Just be sure you don’t short change your decorating tastes because your spaces may be a bit smaller!

First of all, consider selecting furniture that is scaled to your room size. Smaller scaled furniture can make a small room seem a great deal larger. In a living room, for example, you may want to choose the cozy look of coordinating love seats instead of a larger sofa and chair combination. Sofas with open legs, such as Chippendale or Queen Anne, take up less visual space—but be careful not to have a room that’s “all legs”. Balance your open legged pieces with solid ones, perhaps a small skirted, or an enclosed wood table. Staying away from coffee tables and opting for a glass topped tables are good options to consider because the eye continues to travel through a glass surface giving your room a more spacious feeling.

Since pale, softer colors tend to recede, the lighter the wall and floor colors, the larger a room will seem. However if your room features a lot of natural light, you could actually be a bit more adventuresome with your color choices – and add a little more drama to your walls. Traditionally it’s common in smaller rooms to paint ceilings lighter shades than the walls. This actually helps to give the impression of visually taller walls or a higher ceiling. Patterned carpets or light background wall coverings will also help give a smaller room a feeling of depth and visual interest.

Adding a framed mirror, or even mirroring an entire wall, can visually double the room size. But please be sure to note what the mirrors will reflect. If it’s an eyesore, you’ll double that too!

One of the many benefits of smaller rooms is that you will always feel cozy and comfortable! So take a few of these ideas into consideration when you create the inviting, warm and expansive look you want in your own small space!

We Can't Promise You a Pot of Gold, But We Can Promise You a Rainbow!

2011-03-17T10:15:00.000-04:00

Here 's a Fun Fact For You On St. Patrick's Day: In folklore, the Irish leprechaun hides his pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. This place is impossible to reach, because the end of the rainbow is an optical illusion. The closer you try to get to it, the further away it appears. if you are standing at the end of a rainbow that someone else is viewing, you will not know it, because you will not be able to see it!

Most people are drawn to and captivated by the natural beauty of a rainbow and the essence of this beauty is captured in crystal. So why not have rainbows in your house every day? Add a beautiful crystal chandelier and follow your rainbows around your room every single day!

Your Home Entry - The First Impression

2011-03-08T14:10:00.000-05:00

The look and feeling of your home entry plays a critical role in setting the right tone for the rest of your home.  The first impression of your home's interior is established here, and you want it to be fabulous. The entry way establishes the social contract with outsiders and clearly communicates the position and status of the home.

First impressions count. Hang a unique round open-work Italian mirror in an entrance hall to fill an empty wall and provide an elegant greeting for guests.   Carefully selected home accessories will help you make it. Hand-crafted accessories or a finely crafted table lamp will make an entry elegant and graceful. Touches like this will make your entry warmer and more inviting.

Start With A Decorating Plan

2011-02-27T09:38:00.000-05:00

A beautiful home doesn’t just happen. Good decorating is the result of good planning and should start by developing a comprehensive, detailed decorating plan.

What should be included in your decorating plan? Everything that needs to be done, including timing priorities and budget. It’s vitally important to write down everything and be as specific as possible.

Most people feel they need assistance in creating and implementing their decorating plan. Professional interior decorators have the talent, experience and specialized knowledge to help you pull it all together. They can also save you time and money. After all, the most costly furnishings you will ever buy are the ones that prove to be mistakes! Here are a few suggestions that will help you understand your own preferences and prepare you to work with a decorator.

Begin by collecting decorating magazines – or design books. Consider cutting out photographs of furniture, styles, window treatments, color schemes, floor and wall coverings, etc., that appeal to you.

Then, compile everything you’ve collected into a notebook and organize it into sections for each room you’ll be doing. If you chose to work with a decorator, your preplanning will make it much easier for you to communicate your likes and dislikes.

Evaluate your present furnishing and decide what you would like to keep, eliminate, and re-do. Write down the various items in your notebook. What will be your overall color-scheme? Does the carpeting need to be replaced? Which room do you want completed first? What budget have you established for each decorating project you wish to undertake. Knowing this information will prove valuable in working with your chosen interior decorator.

And remember – no matter what your lifestyle – your home should be a reflection of your tastes – your likes and your interests!

Choosing An Area Rug

2011-02-21T17:08:00.000-05:00

The Entry Way

   •   For a large foyer, consider a round rug instead of a square or rectangle; beneath a pedestal table, it makes a dramatic first impression for your home.
   •   For a narrow entry, a runner may be the ideal solution.
   •   Remember to allow for front-door clearance; if the rug has a thick pile, choose a size that stops short of the door edge when it's fully open (at a 45-degree angle to the frame).
   •   Make sure all the doors will clear the rug

The Dining Room

   •   Measure the width and length of the room.
   •   Measure the width and length of the table with all extension leaves in place.
   •   Add 24" to 30" to the table measurements to get the minimum rug size. This will allow chairs to be pulled out without ‘falling off' the edge.
   •   Of course, the rug can be larger, but at least 18" of floor should frame the rug on all four sides.

Finally, remember to put a rug pad underneath all your area rugs. It is important to choose the correct pad for carpet to carpet or rug to wood or tile floor. Spend the extra money for a good pad. It keeps the rug from moving around and will extend the life of the rug.

What Inspires YOU?

2011-02-14T17:55:00.000-05:00

What inspires you?

What inspires you? Is it the way a beautiful flower unfolds its petals? Is it the box of chocolate that your Valentine has given you? Is the smiling faces of your children when they see you walk in the door after a long day? Is it your wife or your husband's absolute faith in you and everything you do? The sunset over a babbling brook? Your kitten or your puppy wagging their tails and giving you kisses? It could be anything. The point is inspiration can come from the smallest things.

When you think about design, you should be inspired by something. You have to ask yourself the question, will this inspire me tomorrow, next week, or next year? Design should stand up to the test of time. I always want you to feel like you will love it as much today as next year. Design trends change quickly. It's always best to add those trendy colors in small ways, like accessories. It's much easier to change throw pillows out and small accessories than to change out the sofa that you insisted had to be in the blue and brown in that wild floral pattern because you think that is the hot color combination right now.

One day you look at the sofa and think, "What was I thinking?" Then you just have to wait 20 years until that color combination comes back. It will come back but of course never in the exact color that was so popular in 2008. I work with many inspirations to give each and every client the perfect look for them. What can I inspire for you?

Adding An Area Rug In Your Bedroom

2011-01-30T14:52:00.000-05:00

An area rug can accomplish a lot for a room. Area rugs provide a point of interest in your bedroom, a soft landing for your feet, and keep the chill away from your toes in the winter. Aside from adding warmth, softness and beauty to a bedroom, area rugs are also excellent for breaking up space and structuring a room. With a large variety of rug styles, shapes and sizes available, finding the right one for your bedroom might seem intimidating at first. Here are some ideas to help you narrow down your choices.

    1.     Location: The first step to figuring out which size of area rug to buy is deciding where you want to put it, in other words, how you want to break up the space in your bedroom. For small bedrooms where not much else fits aside from a bed, a large rug for the area beneath and around the bed looks best. For larger bedrooms where there is space for a seating area, desk or vanity table, area rugs can delineate those spaces nicely. For example, place a large round rug underneath two stuffed armchairs with a reading lamp and table placed between them or place a square rug underneath your desk and chair. You can either place a large rug under the bed or you can place small rugs of any shape at the foot or sides of the bed.

    2.     Size: Once you've decided where you will place the area rug, measure the length and width of the space and write it down. If you decide to get a rug for the space beneath and around your bed, measure not only the size of the bed but any additional length and width you need to extend around the bed. For example, if you have nightstands or other furniture at the sides of the bed, you might want a rug that is big enough to cover the entire area of the bed and nightstands plus enough to border the foot of the bed.

    3.     Color and pattern: Now that you know what size and shape of bedroom rug you're looking for, choosing the perfect area rug is just a matter of personal taste and style. Take a look at the colors and styles your room already has. Are there a lot of solid colors or neutrals? If so, a rug with a pattern or a little bit more color will add just the right amount of interest. If your bedroom already has a lot of color and busy patterns, a solid color bedroom rug or a simple pattern will look better. If you're redecorating your entire bedroom, let a new area rug be the inspiration for your design. Working from the ground up, you can handpick your wall color, sheets, duvet cover and all the decorative accessories to match the colors and pattern in the rug for a designer-coordinated look.

    4.     Price and quality: The most inexpensive area rugs are machine-made using cotton or synthetic materials, while the most expensive rugs are handmade using the finest quality natural materials, like wool and silk.  Before you choose your materials, consider the location. A hand-woven silk rug is not the best choice for a high-traffic area, but it may look wonderful as a wall hanging. If the rug will be the centerpiece of your bedroom, you may want to spend a little more for higher quality materials.

Zen and Cabinet Hardware

2011-01-24T16:57:00.000-05:00

Zen and the Art of Modern Hardware   As housing prices rise, more and more young people and retirees are turning to condominiums as they look to buy their first home. Most condos were built relatively recently and have a distinctly modern design and feel, both inside and out. Most new condo owners want to maintain that look and feel as they decorate their own units, but they also want to make sure that they have the freedom to express their own individuality, being certain that their condos aren’t exactly the same as everyone else’s in the complex.

Installing cabinet hardware, door hardware, faucets, and bathroom accessories created in the modern style is one perfect way to do just that.
Fortunately, the wide variety of modern cabinet and door hardware pieces that are available for purchase in the marketplace today can easily provide room for your individual creative expression while still invoking a minimalist, modern, Zen-like feeling.

Most of the high-quality hardware pieces in the modern style are sleek, shiny, smooth, and polished, but that doesn’t mean that they aren’t attractive and compelling in their own right. Forget the ornate, intricate, and flowery designs of the past. Modern hardware is based on clean lines and cool designs that strip away superfluous elements. Whether they have a subtle matte finish or a shiny finish that catches the natural light in a room, these designs are beautiful in an understated way, yet mesmerizing when one steps in for a closer look.

Modern hardware designs complement and enhance most Asian-inspired designs, too. If you favor Asian screens as room dividers and bamboo plants for decoration, you’ll probably find the hardware you’re looking for if you focus on pieces built in the modern style. Modern hardware has an air of fine sophistication and truly makes it feel as if hardware design has evolved into something new and exciting for the 21st century. Moreover, if you have older furniture, installing modern hardware can often provide the makeover you need to make them feel appropriate for today’s lifestyle.

Many of the pieces have a distinctly European or international feel, too (just imagine running through the display rooms of a huge Ikea store). If you are an avid international traveler and you enjoy displaying your keepsakes and souvenirs in your living areas, then you might be pleasantly surprised to find that modern hardware complements your exotic treasures just beautifully, no matter how old or historic the pieces are.

Some of the hardware pieces created in the modern style may feel trendy and fad-like, especially if you aren’t accustomed to this design style. However, most modern hardware pieces will stand the test of time, retaining their beauty and popularity for generations to come.

Using Cabinet Hardware to Transform Your Kitchen

2011-01-12T18:22:00.000-05:00

Everyone knows that updating your kitchen can be one of the best ways to improve your home’s value, but also one of the most expensive and time-consuming renovation projects that you can undertake. Fortunately, you don’t have to completely overhaul your kitchen to improve its aesthetic appeal. Sure, it would be nice to install brand new appliances, cabinets, and granite countertops, but if your budget doesn’t stretch that far, don’t despair! For a relatively small investment, you can completely change the look and feel of your kitchen.

Try to look at your kitchen with fresh eyes and consider how much of the visual appeal (or lack thereof) is due to the cupboards. They probably cover most of your kitchen walls and many of them are at eye-level, attracting attention. In fact, the cabinetry is probably the first thing that people notice when walking into your kitchen. Building and installing new cabinets can be quite expensive, but simply sanding and refinishing or repainting your existing cabinets can be a major improvement. For a real transformation, though, consider changing the hardware on your cabinetry.

Those little knobs and pulls may not seem very significant, but when you find cabinet hardware that complements and enhances your design style, it can bring the whole room to life. You have a multitude of choices. Let yourself be guided by the overall style of your kitchen and, to a lesser extent, the rest of your home.

First, consider what kind of material you’d like to have. Knobs and pulls are available in wood, ceramic, stone, glass, and a variety of metals, including brushed nickel, polished brass, antique brass, antique copper, stainless steel, and many, many other finishes. Pick something that looks good next to your existing cabinetry, countertops, and appliances. Obviously, if you have stainless steel appliances, you probably don’t want to choose golden-colored copper handles. Instead, opt for stainless steel knobs and pulls, or perhaps interesting stone or glass hardware pieces.

Next, consider which style of hardware you’re most interested in. The style of your hardware should depend on the overall style of your kitchen. If you’re going for a modern look for the kitchen as a whole, quaint arts and crafts hardware will probably look out of place. Similarly, if you have a carefully restored Victorian home, you’ll probably want to stay away from fancy art deco hardware. No matter how beautiful a piece of hardware may look on its own, you need it to blend seamlessly with the rest of the room's decor.

Finally, make sure that the knobs and pulls you choose are functional. You’ll be opening your kitchen cupboards and drawers a lot, so make sure that the knobs and pulls are easy to pull. Also, if you often bump your hip into drawers, consider getting flush pulls that are fully recessed into the surface.

Top Ten Tips For Hanging Artwork

2011-01-06T16:39:00.000-05:00

Hanging artwork baffles so many people. How high should it be hung, is it the right proportion for the wall, and how do you decide where it should go? If hanging artwork challenges you, you are not alone! If you are afraid to buy artwork or pull that great piece out of the closet, fear no more. Below are 10 of my top tips for hanging artwork and "getting it right".

1.       Time to Break Out The Tools

Let's start off right: Using the proper tools is vital to correctly hanging artwork. You need a tape measure, pencil, picture hooks (or nails), hammer, and level.

2.       Eye to Eye

As a general rule of thumb, the center point of artwork should be placed at the eye level of an average woman (which is 5' 6"). The idea is to be able to enjoy it at a natural level, not have to look up at it to appreciate the piece. (See image 1)

3.       Create Conversation Among Your Furnishings

Make your furniture and artwork "speak to each other" . For example, when hanging a piece over your couch the bottom of the artwork should be no more than 4" to 6" above the top of the couch. This way everything connects and creates harmony. It will also give the illusion that your ceilings are taller and make the room feel more spacious.

4.       Big Makes an Impact

Instead of multiple pieces of art, how about one large piece? It will create a focal point whether it is over a couch, above the mantle, or above a bed.

5.       Think Size and Scale

Choose smaller pictures for narrow walls and larger pieces for big wall spaces. Don't allow the wall to swallow up the piece. If you have to strain your eyes to see the artwork then it is too small for the wall.

6.       Seeing Multiples

When you are hanging two or three pieces in a series, only separate them by about 2-3". The artwork will have a much greater impact and will create a cohesive pulled together look.

7.       Use the 75% Rule

A piece of art mounted on the wall should not be larger than the furniture it is hanging over. The artwork should be about 75% the size of the table or couch's width that it is over.

8.   Symmetry or Not?

Should you hang artwork symmetrical or asymmetrical? For a more formal room symmetrical works really well. If you are hanging artwork in a play room kids room, or casual living room hanging artwork in an asymmetrical way can be fun and unexpected.

9.   Group Them For Greater Impact

Grouping smaller pieces together can make a huge impact. Unite the grouping with the same color frames so it is cohesive. A great way to experiment and create your grouping is to lay the pieces down on the floor and arrange it until you have found the perfect way to display your artwork.

10.   Vacation Spots or Landscapes

In smaller rooms or rooms without windows hanging pictures of landscapes such as ocean scenes or trees will visually open up the space by creating a feeling of a window.

I hope you found these 10 tips helpful. You can easily master the art of hanging artwork and no longer need to fear getting it wrong. So you need not be afraid to start your hanging projects today.

What's In A Name? When It Comes To Paint, Plenty!

2011-01-03T15:23:00.000-05:00

What's in a name? Plenty. It has always fascinated me that people are absolutely influenced by the name of a color. The color might be the absolutely perfect color that complements everything else in the room, but if it has a terrible name, it's a goner. An example of this was a young man about 9. He was choosing the color for his bedroom. He wanted the room to be serene, but have a nautical feel. Boats, anchors, you get the idea. A Blue. The blue he chose was called "Little Boy Blue". As soon as he saw the name of the color, he threw up his hands and said" I'm not a little boy!" The color was done. Something else had to be chosen.

If you think that this theory is limited to children, think again. I've see adults like a color based strictly on the name. It isn't even the right color, they just like the name. They have to have it somewhere! What a job these paint manufacturer's have. They can start a trend just by naming a color something terrific. Chocolate Truffle (Benjamin Moore 2096-20) sounds so much better than dark brown. Cotton Candy (Benjamin Moore 1268) sounds yummy and therefore is a better influencing name than light pink. The names evoke images in your mind and will be judged strictly on that basis. The manufacture's have their finger on the pulse of the people and they want to sell paint. It is up to us as designers to give our clients the best possible look regardless of the name of the paint.

What’s Hot – What’s Not - for 2011!!

2011-01-01T15:06:00.000-05:00

What’s Hot – What’s Not - for 2011!!

Isn’t it great fun to learn a bit about what’s new in decorating? Each year new color and design trends abound, and most of my clients are curious as to where these new ideas actually originate. Did you know that most of our home furnishing design trends actually follow design trends in the woman’s fashion industry? So what you see walking down the red carpet today, might actually be translated into one of the hottest design trends of tomorrow! This year, the color of the year according to Pantone, is Honeysuckle. Not the yellow Honeysuckle that you see that grows wild, especially around where I live, but it is the dark pinkish orange color that is the year's HOT COLOR.

SIMPLE, CLEAN LINES ABOUND!

Typically, we see a bit more of a traditional design style when we talk about a transitional design. Today, this transitional design style tends to have a more modern contemporary influence rather than traditional. Look for cleaner, straighter lines in upholstered and occasional furniture style. We also see a trend to smaller scaled furniture styles. And many of today’s new occasional tables tend to feature straight rather than curved lines. But ell free to mix up these rules. Rules are meant to be broken. That's why the Transitional style today is what I see the trend heading for.

TEXTURE, TEXTURE, TEXTURE!

Whether you chose to display your love of texture in your upholstery – leather, ultra suede, or micro fiber, or in your wall art, with dramatic wrought iron designs, texture continues to add drama to any décor. Area rugs in various styles, shapes and designs, help add visual interest to hard-wood or tile floors. And draperies deliciously designed with silks, and embroidered patterns continue to be all the rage. LINENS, SILKS, TEXTURE!

DETAILS!

Brass or silver toned nail head trim instantly adds drama when outlining the wood frames of many of today’s furniture pieces. Appliqués, embossing, leather piping, beaded fringe, and dramatic tassels and tiebacks continue their everlasting popularity.

PAISLEY PRINTS ARE STILL A PIZZAZZ ELEMENT!

We’ve seen years when the trends have gone from large dramatic florals, to small geometric designs. One of the hottest print styles for the coming years will be paisley designs. This beautifully ornate pattern was commonly used for 19th century shawls manufactured in the town of Paisley, Scotland. And the Scots got the idea from Kashmir shawls made in India around the 1800’s. Filled with a myriad of gorgeous colors, paisley designs add excitement and pizzazz to any décor. You'll find them in sheers, in silks and more.

GREY – THE NEW BEIGE!

When it comes to color trends, we’ll be seeing a more glamorous and dramatic color palette this year. Grey is definitely the new beige, and purple continues to be a hot accent color! Silver is still a key factor.

LUSCIOUS LAYERS!

Designers have layered window treatment for centuries. And, now that same luxurious feel is moving from windows to floors! Area rugs abound in colors, shapes, styles and textures. And one of the hottest trends today is to layer your floor –not with just one area rug – but two or three! Area rugs placed over carpeting not only adds instantaneous visual interest, but can help give a tired carpet a fresh new look! DIMENSION,DIMENSION,DIMENSION!

Your "New Year's Resolution" This Year

2010-12-27T20:10:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

This year, instead of making that same old New Year’s resolution of losing those ten pounds or going to the health club three times a week, resolve to give your home a New Year’s face lift!

These design tips should serve you well as you move towards an updated, fresh new look for your home:

• Start a file of magazine pictures of rooms that you like. Even if you can’t exactly pinpoint why you find a room setting so appealing, by reviewing your file, your decorator will be able to quickly understand the feel that you want for your home.

• Involve your professional decorator at the very beginning of your project. Doing so will help you avoid the costly mistakes that many homeowners make. The most successful decorating projects are those where the decorator and homeowner are very candid with each other regarding tastes, priorities, budget, timing and goals.

• Your first goal should be to design your home to suit the way you and your family actually live. Analyze all the rooms of your home – are some underutilized and some just exhausted from use? Maybe its time to relocate some activity centers and redirect some traffic patterns.

• Be realistic when determining the amount you plan to invest in the project. If you haven’t redecorated in several years, you may need to acquaint yourself with today’s pricing to determine your budget range.

• Resist the urge to repaint your interior as the first step in your new look. There are myriad beautiful paint colors to compliment your final fabric selections but painting your walls first will severely limit your choices in fabric selections. Color schemes should flow smoothly from room to room, especially in the adjoining living areas. This means some detailed attention needs to be paid early to the long range overall color plan.

• Forget matching sets of furniture and mono-chromatic “safe” schemes. A far more interesting look is a room of complementing wood pieces and companionable fabrics in exciting complementary colors.

• Something slightly whimsical in every room will ensure that your rooms don’t take their new look too seriously. Lamps, area rugs, candles and other accessories are all opportunities for a novel touch to keep rooms feeling light and welcoming. Use many different textures, materials and surfaces. Combinations of metals, woods, glass, woven reeds, fabrics, ceramics and stone will provide depth and interest to your decorative theme.

• Insist upon good lighting. A well planned room will have lighting at varying levels and intensities appropriate to the activity of the area. Close attention should be given especially to task lighting for activities such as reading, dining, and cooking and desk top work.

This is one New Year’s resolution that you and your family will be pleased you kept for years to come.

I'll Be Home for the Holidays, How About You?

2010-12-25T18:42:00.000-05:00

I'll Be Home for the Holidays

Foyers set the stage in every home.
It's where a great first impression can be made. So consider dressing up your front door with a beautiful holiday wreath. It can range from a natural evergreen wreath to one featuring beautiful dried flowers mixed with silk greenery, a wreath will definitely give your home a holiday style right from the start.

Is your entryway inviting?
It's the first impression your company will have. A welcoming, well lit foyer is a must for every home. Mirrors can help brighten and enlarge these areas. And a well selected area rug will help add a much needed touch of warmth.

Onto the Living Room!
Moving on from your entryway, family and friends generally settle in your living or family room. Typically the centerpiece of either room is a brightly decorated Christmas tree. If your room features a fireplace, then mantle decorating is a must. Candles, pine cones, holiday stockings hung with care, will add just the right festive touch to your fireplace area. Often furniture needs to be slightly rearranged to accommodate your Christmas tree. Be sure to keep these newly arranged pieces in a comfortable and conversational grouping. If one piece needs to be taken out, remove it! Don't let your decorations overpower or over-clutter the room.

Delightful Dining Rooms.
Naturally, the dining room should provide an attractive and delicious atmosphere for your special holiday meals. A well set, decorative table is a must. Perhaps a holiday linen or lace tablecloth will become the backdrop for a lively, but not overbearing holiday centerpiece.

Put a holiday touch in your guest room.
If you have guests staying, think of ways you can make their visit with you even more special. Inspire the guest room with just a touch of holiday magic. Perhaps holiday inspired accent pillows on the bed, or holiday throw draped over the bed to add that welcoming touch.

Above all else, when decorating for the holidays, make sure to put your own family's personality into everything you do. Preparing to welcome family and guests to your home is a lot of fun...if not a great excuse to complete that long overdue decorating project!

Holiday "To Do's" Right Now

2010-12-21T21:32:00.000-05:00

Tis the season to decorate, and here's a few things to start with...

   Replace your tablecloth with one featuring a holiday theme. It's time to break out of the norm. Try golds and reds, blues and silvers. Set an elegant table! The kids and grownups alike will love it.

Change your lampshades from ivory to black or even red– and add a gold tassel, or holiday themed finial. What a sophisticated look!

Change your candles to ones featuring your favorite holiday colors. Try the new candles that are wax on the outside and have a battery to power them. All the look with none of the worry! You can use those same candles with the cutout paper bags and sand to line the pathway to your home for your holiday party!
    Add a holiday bow to your planters – or place your plants in wicker baskets painted red, green, gold or silver.

    Tie a holiday colored bow around 3 old books, and display them on your coffee table.

    Add twinkle lights to your real trees. Change it up and make them a color.

    Wrap toss pillows like a holiday present with beautifully colored holiday
    ribbon.

    Buy yards of tulle (it's that ballerina tutu fabric) in white a wrap the bottom of your tree. Make sure that
   you open it. Makes the tree look ethereal.

    For years I've made the garage door look like a present by threading a thick red velvet ribbon through all
   the panels both vertically and horizontally. Then I make a big bow and put it in the middle. It opens up with
   the door. Looks really fabulous! Do this with the front door too!

Change your window treatment tie-backs, by adding holly, berries or even a sprig or two of evergreen.

Check your yard or the neighbors (if they don't mind) and pick up some twigs. Spray them with a white
spray paint. Toss some glitter on them while they are wet. You can add the white lights and stand them in
a large floral pot.

Fill up a large glass container with glass ornaments. Use one color for an eye catching display.

Try studding oranges with cloves and placing them in a bathroom for some aromatic decorating!

The important thing here is to have fun! There are no hard and fast rules. It will all look fantastic in the end!

2011 Color OF The Year is Honeysuckle

2010-12-14T18:41:00.000-05:00

So what is the color of 2011? According to Pantone, a leader in the color business, it is Honeysuckle. I see a pattern here. Last year it was Turquoise (Blue tone), this year it is Honeysuckle (pink tones). Sounds like we are getting back to basics. Updates of boy/girl colors. Let's take a look at Pantone's thoughts.

PANTONE 2011 COLOR OF THE YEAR

A Color for All Seasons Courageous. Confident. Vital. A brave new color, for a brave new world. Let the bold spirit of Honeysuckle infuse you, lift you and carry you through the year. It's a color for every day – with nothing "everyday" about it.

While the 2010 color of the year, PANTONE 15-5519 Turquoise, served as an escape for many, Honeysuckle emboldens us to face everyday troubles with verve and vigor. A dynamic reddish pink, Honeysuckle is encouraging and uplifting. It elevates our psyche beyond escape, instilling the confidence, courage and spirit to meet the exhaustive challenges that have become part of everyday life
.
"In times of stress, we need something to lift our spirits. Honeysuckle is a captivating, stimulating color that gets the adrenaline going – perfect to ward off the blues," explains Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. "Honeysuckle derives its positive qualities from a powerful bond to its mother color red, the most physical, viscerally alive hue in the spectrum."

Eiseman continues, "The intensity of this festive reddish pink allures and engages. In fact, this color, not the sweet fragrance of the flower blossoms for which it was named, is what attracts hummingbirds to nectar. Honeysuckle may also bring a wave of nostalgia for its associated delicious scent reminiscent of the carefree days of spring and summer."

Honeysuckle is guaranteed to produce a healthy glow when worn by both men and women. It's a striking, eye-catching hue that works well for day and night in women's apparel, accessories and cosmetics, and in men's ties, shirts and sportswear. Add a lively flair to interior spaces with Honeysuckle patterned pillows, bedspreads, small appliances and tabletop accessories. Looking for an inexpensive way to perk up your home? Paint a wall in Honeysuckle for a dynamic burst of energy in the family room, kitchen or hallway.
Honeysuckle products are currently available from a variety of manufacturers:

Wedding Apparel- A flattering hue for wedding attendant apparel and accessories, Honeysuckle is now one of the nearly 200 PANTONE WEDDING Colors available from Dessy, a leading manufacturer of bridesmaid, social-occasion and flower-girl dresses. PANTONE WEDDING exclusively from Dessy provides a collection of color tools to make it easy for brides to achieve perfectly color-coordinated weddings – from inspiration to "I do." See www.dessy.com for more information.

Paint -  Honeysuckle is one of 3,000 colors available in Pantone's line of superior-quality, eco-friendly paint. PANTONE Paints combine the accuracy of PANTONE Colors with the beauty of high-performance Dutch paints. See www.pantonepaints.com for more information.

Home Interiors  - Honeysuckle is upbeat and dynamic when used on large areas like the entry area of a house or an apartment. It is an appetite and conversation stimulant when used on the dining room walls. In the kitchen, it adds a fun touch on the table in placemats and other linens (patterned or solid), colored glassware, candles and small appliances. Honeysuckle is a great color to cover up shabby kitchen cabinets, or, if that's too much of a color statement for you, try repainting knobs and drawer pulls. But be warned – once you try this arresting shade, it can become addictive.

Packaging  - Honeysuckle is an excellent packaging color for products that speak to something active or festive, or are suggestive of sweet tastes and scents. It's an especially good shade for delicious food or drink packaging. The name Honeysuckle is evocative of these perceptions.

Let's face it. It's a happy color and who doesn't deserve a little happiness?

For More Information about this color, visit www.pantone.com

Family Room-Tips and Tricks

2010-12-12T15:59:00.000-05:00

The Family Room at any residential structure is essentially the focus point for interior designing and decorating. True to its name, it is the room where the family will actually live in. Hence, it becomes increasingly important to design and decorate it appropriately with a specific theme and under a specific budget. Since most of the time, it is the room that has the maximum dimensions, a much greater attention is required to its look. The family room designing becomes all the more important as it creates a lasting impression on the visitors about your house and you in general.

Let's look at some of the basic principles while designing a family room:

   •   First and foremost, choose a design style. Reflect on your and your family's attitudes and choose a theme to work on. Some like vibrant themes, others like stylish, some adore ancient themes and some very modernized themes. So select your flavor and make a note to design every room on those standards.
   •   It is very important to create a focus point in your family room. Focus point essentially means a certain area where the eye just grabs the attention first. Such a focus point should always have a strong color with spotlights to enhance and brighten the strong color at the same time.
   •   To make the space look wider and brighter, well-placed big mirrors are the best accessories. Place them a little lower on the walls as placing them high gives a restricted look to the living room.
   •   Using picture frames in certain sections can really give the room richness and beauty. Too big picture frames should be avoided for small rooms and they should be placed at a height comfortably below the ceiling to give a wider look.
   •     As said earlier, choosing the right color is very important. Whites and cream give illusion of more space while darker colors give the appearance of restricted space. But these colors can work well to make the space feel "cozy". However, keeping one stronger color on a wall and lighter colors on other walls brings an astounding effect.
   •   Avoid using glossy paints as it shows more unevenness in lights. Matte color is always a good option.
   •   Any type of flooring can be improved by just putting a darker or lighter rug to give your room a comfortable and cozy look.
   •   For the couch, always place a contrasting pillows on it. This gives it a more interesting and brighter look.
   •   Installing shade lamps with different colors such as amber or blue give a romantic look to the room.
   •   Fireplaces add a touch of excitement but also give the space a shorter look. If space provides, fireplace should always be on the list and the more the depth, the better it is.
   •   Wall mounted TV set is a definite yes but chose a size that is not too big or too small. A larger size can completely disarray the room, hence choose wisely.
   •   The seating arrangement in a family room should always be facing each other. This creates a comfortable "conversational environment".
   •   Try to use more glass surfaces as light reflects easily on such a surface. A stylish glass table in the center provides a brighter look and gives an open feel, while hard wood tables can shrink the room.
   •    Hope these tips might help you in designing and decorating your family room. Now it's up to you to make a great space.

Design Tips for the Bedroom

2010-12-02T16:57:00.000-05:00

The bedroom is that very important space in your house that offers you and your partner a good night's sleep. A good night's sleep is essential to wake up fresh and weather the challenges of tomorrow. A good night's sleep in the comfort of your partner is what you need to live your life at the fullest. Your bedroom should generate feelings of peace, serenity and harmony when you enter and when you come out of it.

Designing a bedroom is actually very easier if you work along some simple basic concepts. Here are some of the tips that you need to keep in mind while designing your bedroom.

1. Chose calming and soothing colors. Colors such as blue, light green, neutral tones such as sand and beige are always the best choices. These colors are known to produce emotions of peace and harmony.

2. Use lighting that creates romanticism. Diffuse, subtle lighting is always a yes. Avoid using bright lights or too colorful lights. Shade lamps are a definite yes and incorporate task lighting near your bed for those reading moments before you go to sleep.

3. Your mattress selection should be such that it makes you feel comfortable. Some like to rest on soft, doughy beds while others like their beds to be little firm. So choose a mattress that is more appropriate for your sleep and not for the look. Stylize your bed by getting a contrasting colored comforter. This also provides a more cozy look to your bedroom.

4. Almost all of us watch a little TV before going to bed. Try to fit either a wall mounted TV or place a table TV facing directly opposite to your bed.

5. Give a look of more openness and more space to your bedroom by maximizing the use of windows and using light colored fabrics or blinds on the windows. You can always add blackout to your draperies to block the light.

6. Do not gather a lot of furniture in the bedroom. Make sure that you allow sufficient space for you to move around in dark without hurting yourself.

7. The furniture for your bedroom should be clean lined with simple patterns to give the illusion of space.

8. Use glass mirrors to the best advantage so that a minimum of light in your bedroom spreads evenly.

9. Use of picture frames at a lower height than your ceiling is highly recommended.

10. Provide more shelf storage on the sides of the bed for comfort and ease. Wall shelves on the sidewalls give the appearance of more space.

11. Finally, try adding a fireplace in your bedroom. It would give the most royal and luxurious look to your bedroom that you always dreamt of.

Hope these tips help you while designing your bedroom. The designing themes keep on changing not only with times but also with age. Design with comfort in mind!

Your Bedroom - Uncover the Possibilities

2010-11-29T16:41:00.000-05:00

UNCOVER THE POSSIBILITIES! –

Accessories – the Finishing touch to any room

Your bedroom is certainly no exception! There’s no better room in your home than to accentuate your personality – display your favorite treasurers – show off your family pride! More than any other decorative product you could purchase for your home, your accessories will give each and every room its own distinct personality. They help make your rooms come alive!

I find collecting accessories is a never-ending delight. Whenever and wherever you see something that appeals to you strongly, acquire it if possible, because it will give you pleasure every time you look at it and will add a very personal touch to your home.

Your newly designed bedroom might incorporate a bit more of a romantic touch if you consider displaying accessories that will enhance the mood and overall feeling of your room. Softly glowing candles, beautifully framed family photos, a single rosebud in a crystal vase, even a dish of potpourri, will add to your romantic ambiance.

Finally – the Floors!

Depending upon what part of the country you’re from, you have a variety of comfortable and decorative flooring options. If colder climates are your forte, then you must definitely consider walking on your bare bedroom floor in the winter. In this case, wall-to-wall carpet is far and away your best choice. Your next best selection, would be generously sized area rugs on either side of your bed. And, actually, carpeting in your bedroom can be a bit more luxurious and colorful than elsewhere, because it’s not a high-traffic area, and usually not entered from outdoors.

If warmer climates appeal, then your choices of flooring can be a little more varied. Ceramic tile, hardwood floors covered with beautiful – and color coordinated area rugs, would add a wonderful touch of texture and warmth. Corks and Bamboo's are earth friendly.

So….Uncover the Possibilities!

And last, but not least, remember that your romantic bedroom redecorating project should be an enjoyable adventure. Remember you’re not only making your new room express your personality, but you’re making it more enjoyable and attractive. Any decorating project that involves the world of color, the fabulous furnishings and accessories that are now available, the marvelous materials for floors, walls, windows and beds is an exciting undertaking. And above all remember that you spend more time in your home than anyone else. Be sure your ultimate decorating choices reflect your personality and your unique sense of style.

Light Up Your Life and Your Home!!

2010-11-26T22:41:00.000-05:00

Light Up Your Life and Your Home!!

With a little thought and planning, the lighting in the activity areas of your home can be made more efficient and attractive. But the right choice of fixture, the proper lamp (and bulb), placement, and height all have major effect on the results. When it all comes together, beauty, comfort and convenience can be added to every area of your home.

Four basic types of lighting are often used together to provide desired functionality and flexibility. Ambient lighting illuminates the entire room and should create a warm and inviting look. It should be relatively low level to avoid glare and dreariness. The amount needed is also affected by natural light sources, wall/floor/ceiling colors, and ceiling light.

Task or focal lighting is for reading, cooking, desk work, etc. and should be cooler in tone. It should be carefully placed to avoid shadows or glare to minimize eye strain. Accent lighting illuminates and highlights architectural features or objects in a room. Decorative lighting attracts attention to itself as an object. Examples are chandeliers or sconces. Decorative shades can make any lamp a decorative piece, as well.

Just as with furniture or window treatments, always start with the function or purpose of a particular lighting need when working with clients. From there, the type of lighting is usually obvious, although there may be choices or a combination required. With the exception of chandeliers, most residential lighting requirements are met best with lamps rather than recessed or ceiling-mounted fixtures. Wonderful lamps are available today for any location or purpose: wall sconces, table lamps, accent lamps, floor lamps, desk lamps, and torchieres of every size and material add variety and interest to any décor.

Are You ReadyTo Put Up The Art?

2010-11-17T17:53:00.000-05:00

You poured over fan decks and color samples for hours and finally painted your room the most perfect color. The walls are gorgeous, but awfully blank. How do you choose wall decor for the room?
Here are the basics when choosing wall decor:

   1.   Go for what you like. Art is completely subjective, so if it speaks to you then it’s right.

   2.   Pick unexpected items. You don’t want the same look in every room.  Look for ornate mirrors in darker finishes or framed iron medallions. Works of metal are very popular and give an expected twist to wall decor. Hang pairs or triples of items for visual interest. Texture is important too!

   3.   Please, please, please…..no more pictures hung at the ceiling! Wall art should be placed at average eye level. For me, I'm 5'5", so I tell everyone it is where my eye height hits the wall. (Just because hubby is 6’4” does NOT mean it is OK to hang art at his eye level!)

   4.   Make sure your art pieces are large enough. Hanging an 8×10 family picture above a ninety inch sofa does not work…..think bigger and also in groups. It's OK to fill up a wall, as long as it's done well.

   5.   All frames in a room do not have to match perfectly. Shake things up and use various textures and tones. But be careful! Mixing too many styles and colors can get busy and confusing.

   6.   Keep wall paint color in mind when choosing art. The colors in your art should be complimentary to your wall color.

So there you go….the basics to starting your wall décor collection. Best of luck and happy decorating!

Can a Decorator Help Me With A Small Project?

2010-11-13T18:28:00.000-05:00

Can a decorator help me with a small makeover?

This question seems to keep a lot of potential clients from calling a decorator.   I’m always amazed at how timid people can be about a simple inquiry. In our office, we welcome calls from everyone. We’re happy to answer their questions, because it helps them — and us– to determine if we are a good fit.    I’ve lost track of how often we’ve been able to help someone who was convinced that their job was too small.   I know that other decorators and designers have had similar experiences. Having said that, there are some clues as to how receptive a design professional may be to a smaller job.    And I have some hints on how to approach the initial conversation…

   •   First of all, you need to determine if your definition of small is the same as theirs. I once had a client worry on the phone that her job might not be big enough, then it turned out to be worth $30,000 to $40,000. I believe she had a budget of $50,000 for all the work that was needed, and she was concerned that my estimate would be more than she could afford.   This is not the norm, but it’s a great example of how one person’s assumptions can vary greatly from reality. More often, callers are worried that we won’t go out for a single window treatment, or to reupholster a few pieces of furniture. While not every design consultant will say yes to these jobs, many of us look at such jobs as our ‘bread and butter’, and we’re happy to do them.    After all, many great clients started out by trying us on a smaller job. And if your job really is too small for us, we will let you know.

   •   Be observant about how you’ve found the decorator or designer. How do they reach out to the public? If they are making themselves available for a group seminar at your church or women’s group, or you’ve met them at a business network, or some other one-on-one, face-to-face venue, then chances are good that they are open to all kinds of jobs.   Someone who only speaks to the public from a stage, at a high-priced event, or on TV, may not be as open to our ‘little’ jobs.

   •   Ask how the design consultant gets paid.  (Yes, this means you actually have to call their office.) How much will it cost you to meet with them? Sometimes the ‘cost of admission’ is so high ($5000 or more) that you can infer how large your job needs to be in order to make it worth your while.    Some designers will actually tell you that they have a minimum requirement, so you are clear on whether or not your job quailifies.    No matter what, you should never be embarrassed to ask this question, and anyone who makes you feel that way doesn’t deserve your business.

Much of the information you need will be on a decorator’s website, so that’s a great place to start. However, if you really want to be sure, you will ultimately need to make that first call. Most important is talking to the decorator. Be open to new ideas and be honest about your expectations and they will give you the beautiful room that you desire!

What's Hot - What's Not-

2010-11-11T19:04:00.000-05:00

What’s Hot – What’s Not -

Isn’t it great fun to learn a bit about what’s new in decorating? Each year new color and design trends abound, and most of my clients are curious as to where these new ideas actually originate. Did you know that most of our home furnishing design trends actually follow design trends in the woman’s fashion industry? So what you see walking down the red carpet today, might actually be translated into one of the hottest design trends of tomorrow!

SIMPLE, CLEAN LINES ABOUND!

Typically, we see a bit more of a traditional design style when we talk about a transitional design. Today, this transitional design style tends to have a more modern contemporary influence rather than traditional. Look for cleaner, straighter lines in upholstered and occasional furniture style. We also see a trend to smaller scaled furniture styles. And many of today’s new occasional tables tend to feature straight rather than curved lines.

TEXTURE CONTINUES TO TAKE CENTER STAGE!

Whether you chose to display your love of texture in your upholstery – leather, ultra suede, or micro fiber, or in your wall art, with dramatic wrought iron designs, texture continues to add drama to any décor. Area rugs in various styles, shapes and designs, help add visual interest to hard-wood or tile floors. And draperies deliciously designed with silks, and embroidered patterns continue to be all the rage.

DETAILS!

Brass or silver toned nail head trim instantly adds drama when outlining the wood frames of many of today’s furniture pieces. Appliqués, embossing, leather piping, beaded fringe, and dramatic tassels and tiebacks continue their everlasting popularity.

6 Quick Design Tips

2010-11-09T18:37:00.000-05:00

6 QUICK DECORATING TIPS

#1: GREENERY!! Nothing can add so much spark for such a modest investment!   Everyone likes plants and flowers, but too few give them credit for being a decorative accent. Plants cheer up a room and humanize it by adding nature’s own basic color – Green! And beautifully designed floral arrangements will not only help pull your room’s color scheme together, but will bring a bit of the outdoors in!

#2: PIANOS! Positioning a piano isn’t always easy, but if you love yours, you’ll find a way that’s good for it and for your room. If it’s a grand piano, the curved side should face the room and the straight side should be parallel to the wall. Never place a piano on an outside wall. It's bad for the sound board.

#3: PLAN AHEAD! Keep a scrapbook of design ideas, color combinations and room layouts that you find particularly pleasing. This will help you and your professional interior decorator easily focus on your project. When I've looked through the pages that my client has saved, I can always point out the theme that they are attracted to. Sometimes they don't even know what it is that they like about a room.

#4   REMEMBER TO BE PRACTICAL! When selecting fabrics, wall covering, floor covering and furniture, be sure to keep in mind their practical as well as decorative effects. Children and pets must be considered in selecting all your home furnishings products. Practical doesn't mean boring. You may want washable fabrics. I always recommend dry-cleaning. It keeps the integrity of the fabric much longer.

#5 ADD DRAMA TO YOUR WINDOWS! By extending a window treatment further than the window itself, you’ll be able to give smaller sized windows the illusion of greater space and drama. After all, shouldn't the room be dramatic! Remember that adding fabric to the room creatfes a warmth that cannot be achieved any other way.

#6 LONG TERM INVESTMENTS!   Don’t fall into the trap of buying home furnishings because they’re a bargain. Always make your home furnishings purchases – especially wood and upholstered pieces – a long term investment. You should plan to spend the most on the pieces that you use everyday. You'll be happier in the long run.

The "DO's and Don'ts of Painting"

2010-11-08T13:14:00.000-05:00

DO buy a quart first instead of a large quantity in case you’re not committed to the color. Paint a piece of foam board and move it around the room to see how the light affects the color at different times of the day. This is a lot easier than painting all of those swatches on the wall and it looks better too!

DO take the time to prep the area. Gather artwork and accessories in one box and place out of the way. Move furniture to the center of the space (or into another room altogether), wipe down walls and tape off molding. Cover the floor with a drop cloth. (Plastic sheets can be slippery and messy.)

DO remove all of the hardware—switchplates, doorknobs, drapery hardware, etc.--and place the parts in a plastic bag.

DO gather everything you’ll need to get the job done and set up a "paint station" in or near the room. Include a paint tray, painters' tape, brushes, rollers, stir sticks, a paint can opener, rags, paint thinner, a screwdriver, hammer and ladder.

DO purchase one good paint tray and line it with inexpensive disposable plastic tray forms. Aluminum foil works well in a pinch.

DO calculate how much paint you’ll need. It’s always best to get it mixed at one time.

DO choose the appropriate rollers and brushes. Specific rollers are required depending on the paint’s viscosity (i.e. how well it rolls onto the surface) and the wall’s texture. Brushes with angled tips are best for painting on and around trim.

DO wear appropriate clothing (you will get paint on you somewhere) and slip-on shoes for easy access in and out of the room.

DO prime the walls if going from one extreme color to another. For instance, if the walls are tan and you want deep green, paint first with a primer tinted to match your intended top coat to ensure you'll end up with the true color.

DO expect to apply at least three coats when painting walls red--one coat of primer and two coats of paint.

DO keep a stash of paint for touch-ups in a small plastic cup or glass jar, like margarine containers or baby food jars (thoroughly cleaned, of course). Be sure to label each container with the color and brand name.

DO clean up your brushes when you are finished. It's much easier to tackle it while it's wet. Good brushes are expensive and you don't want to have to throw it away because you forgot about it and it dried out.

DO have fun! Get out of your element and experiment with color. After all it's just a little paint!

Oil or Latex Paint?

2010-11-06T11:34:00.000-04:00

Should you use oil or latex paint for your painting project? Here are some of the pros and cons of each product.

Oil-Based Paint
Advantages of oil:
    •    It goes on smoother
    •    Covers more thoroughly in one coat
    •    Shrinks less
    •    Takes longer to dry so you have more working time
    •    Holds up well in high-traffic areas

Disadvantages of oil:
    •    It's more likely to crack, fade and yellow over time.
    •    The fumes can be overwhelming.
    •    Cleanup solvents like mineral spirits and turpentine are necessary for washing brushes. These hazardous chemicals need to be managed carefully (look in the phone book's government pages for local facilities).

Other important considerations:
    •    Oil-based paints should never be poured down a drain. Disposal is regulated by local waste management agencies (look in the government pages for more information).
    •    Many cities have local hazardous waste collection centers that accept old paint and stain. No matter which formula you reach for, oil or latex, use a laundry or bath sink for minor cleanup. Paint can ruin kitchen disposals.

Latex (Water-Based) Paint
Advantages of latex:
    •    Doesn't yellow over time
    •    Is better for the environment
    •    Dries faster
    •    Much easier to clean up by using soap and water
    •    Latex is far more forgiving, primarily for cleanup, making it a great choice for the weekend warrior.
    •    Many painters are finding latex is more widely available than oil.

A disadvantage of latex is it swells the grain of wood, making sanding between coats a necessity.

More Painting Tips:
    •    All paints contain chemicals, so wear gloves when tackling large projects to minimize direct skin exposure.
    •    If you're painting a wall or doing some simple effects, reach for latex. If there's wood involved, you may want to consider oil-based paint.
    •    When in doubt, tell the experts at your home center what you're doing and they'll be happy to offer advice. With all the new products out there for latex paint, you can tackle almost any decorative finish!

What is in that Fabric?

2010-10-29T13:04:00.000-04:00

There are two basic forms of fabric:  

1. Fabric found in nature (the Naturals) 

2. Fabrics made in a test tube (the Synthetics)

Both natural and synthetic fabrics have their positive qualities. Synthetics, for instance, can be very durable and can often resist sun damage. Don't think of naturals as necessarily being weaker than the synthetics, however. Durability often depends on the weave and finish applied to the products, not the inherent qualities of the fabric itself. For example, chintz is highly polished somewhat thin-fibered cotton that is not specifically long wearing. It is a "look," whereas a cotton using thicker fibers and heavier weave will perform better for greater periods of time. Think of the "Shabby Chic" look that was so popular some years ago.

In some cases a synthetic-natural blend is going to be the best option for your upholstery, floor covering or window treatment need. Blends can give you the strength of the synthetics combined with the desirable qualities of the naturals.

The Naturals

Cotton is extremely versatile and the strongest of the natural fibers with the exception of wool (but who wants to sleep on wool sheets?). Cotton accepts dyes very well, so color options are great, and it allows for the flow of air through the goods; in industry jargon we would say that it’s a fabric that "breathes" well.

  Where to Use It: For upholstery, cotton's breathability has distinct advantages. For a room in which people sit for long periods of time — a family room, for example — the breathability factor will enhance the comfort of the furniture. If you like that ever-so-fashionable wrinkled, easygoing "forever summer" look, you can't go wrong with cotton slipcovers. To add durability to the breathability mix, look for a cotton-synthetic combination.

Cotton is also a great choice for breathable seat cushions for occasional chairs or, with fabric protection, for dinette chair covers. Cafe curtains and less formal window treatments for spare bedrooms can be made from inexpensive chintz or brushed cotton (this type of cotton has a soft, smooth hand, like chamois), giving you great color at a low price.

Linen: Made from a vegetable fiber, linen has a fine luster. It possesses a healthy stain resistance, but wrinkles if you even look at it funny. Therefore, the style of linen is wrinkled. Often style follows the inherent nature of the material.   Where to Use It: Linen is super as a table covering. It's lighter hand and casual nature relates to spring and summer. Use it to add a little magic to summer table settings or as a casually elegant unstructured window treatment on a decorative rod.

Silk: Worms make silk, with glorious results. But silk gets a bad rap because it is susceptible to sun damage. If you avoid too much sun exposure (which can create what's called sun rot), silk can be a wonderful investment. It comes in a wide variety of fabric weights, from light handed to heavy raw silk. The weave will often determine the wearability of silk with some of the raw silks being much stronger and able to take more wear.

Where to Use It: Lined silk makes gorgeous window treatments and is very long wearing. It makes durable upholstery fabrics as well. Let's remember that before synthetic fibers, silk and cotton were extensively used. Many of the finest Oriental rugs are made of silk and last for hundreds of years. Silk makes terrific throw pillows, limiting the amount of fabric needed and feeling cool and slick on the cheek when taking that too rare nap on the sofa.  

Wool: The battleship of the naturals, wool is a fabric that provides long wear. Wool can be scratchy and warm, however, and some people may be allergic to it (your dog, too, might have an allergic reaction to wool carpeting or upholstery).

Where to Use It: Wool makes fabulous hard-wearing, wall-to-wall carpeting. Wool sheepskin, in its natural state, brushed and airy with long fibers, makes wonderful small floor coverings at the side of a bed or near a cozy fireplace. Wool upholstery will last to the next ice age. Think of wool upholstery as the famous Pendleton shirt, which warms and breathes well simultaneously. For some people, though, it gets a little too warm.

The Synthetics

Rayon: Here's a synthetic that can hang well, but it also can do some pretty bizarre things for a fabric. Check the fabric contents on window treatments to be sure the rayon content is low, or nonexistent. In the summer rayon absorbs humidity and rises up your window or shrinks upward. It lets back down in lower humidity months. It’s like window treatments on a pogo stick.

Where to Use It: Rayon is fine for window treatments in a very low-humidity area.

Acrylic: Acrylic is colorfast and resists stains well. It also has sun-resistant qualities not found in the natural fabrics, but it is slightly harder to clean than wool and it can pill.

Where to Use It: Acrylic is often blended with natural fabrics to add durability.

Nylon: Nylon is tough stuff. It says "no" to stains and static electricity and wears well. Nylon is a continuous filament as opposed to a twist (hence nylon can’t breathe, while cotton has a high breathability factor as air passes through the twist).

Where to Use It: The solidity of the filament makes nylon not particularly comfortable to sit on as it warms up from body heat quickly, but it is fabulous if you are jumping out of an airplane.  

Olefin: Another test-tube baby with high durability, but not so high on style.

Where to Use It: Olefin is great for professional-football stadiums (it makes for swell AstroTurf), but it's not so great in the home — unless you have a need for some indoor-outdoor carpeting.

Polyester: This synthetic is what's called a staple yard, consisting of strands bonded together. It's fade-resistant but is harder to clean than nylon or wool, and it's not as resilient as other fabrics. The term staple refers to a short length of fiber that is twisted to form a thicker strand.

Where to Use It: Often used as part of an upholstery blend.  

Acetate: Acetate is long wearing and is less affected by humidity than rayon. Softer than the other test-tube babies, acetate rarely pills and is tough to wrinkle.

Where to Use It: Good in window treatments because of its draping wrinkle-resistant qualities.

Types or Styles of Fabric

Chintz: The style originally hails from India and was brought to the West by the British Raj. Chintz is a highly polished, rather thin, calico brightly colored cotton fabric. Popular for upholstery and slipcovers.

Cretonne: A plain weave fabric with both printed floral motif and angular shapes for people who can’t make up their minds as to what they like. Often used for chair coverings and curtains.

Damask is a glossy Jacquard weave (a Jacquard weave is made with a Jacquard loom which was invented Joseph Marie Jacquard in 1801) that has a flat look on the pattern itself, but glossy for the background. In silk, rayon or linen, it is often used for draperies and upholstery.

Gingham: A relatively inexpensive fabric that usually has a checkered pattern. Looks swell as a dining tablecloth in Italian restaurants or on kitchen or nursery windows.

Grosgrain: A silk with a ribbed appearance.

Herringbone: A regular geometric pattern consisting of two slanted rows that form a "V" shape on the fabric. This menswear look is popular in upholstery now.

Moiré: For some reason the French liked fabric with water spilled on it, just like your kids do. Moiré is a "water-marked"(now produced by cylindrical presses) fabric that has cathedrals (lines that look like the peak of a cathedral) running vertically.

Mohair: Angora goats’ hair. Sometimes used for throws and pillows.

Satin: This one dates from the 14th century. It is believed to be named after the town of Zaitun in China, though no one knows where Zaitun was. Satin was originally a glossy silk fabric with a dull back, but the look can be reproduced in rayon for the cost conscious.

Tapestry: Tapestries were originally developed in the Middle Ages as a form of insulation as the walls at the time had pretty low "R" values. Tapestries helped to block the wind coming in through the chinks in your basic castle’s mortar and later developed into a brocade type of weave with ornamentation.

Ticking: Ticking is a striped cotton fabric traditionally made in black and white, but also seen in blue/white and red/white. It’s used for mattress covers, of course, but also for informal curtains and coverings.

Toile de Juoy: Literally meaning "Fabric of Joy," toile is a French fabric with a pattern that is somewhat naive featuring country scenes of a solid black, red, gray or blue against a cream colored background. Toile is often associated with cottons.

Ultrasuede: An advance in technology, ultrasuede replicates natural suede (the underside of leather), but resists stains much better than the highly absorbent suede. Second-generation ultrasuedes are the more affordable microfibers that are less dense in terms of fiber count, therefore more affordable.

Velvet: A pile that is cut at uniform lengths to create an even overall surface. Very durable and great for heavy flowing draperies.

This should give you a little better understanding of kinds and types of fabrics. You should work with your decorator closely so that they can help you pick out the right fabric for the right application. It shouldn't just look beautiful, it should wear well too!

Color Continuity- Get with the Flow

2010-10-27T10:47:00.000-04:00

I talk about color flowing through a house all the time. Many decorators recommend color continuity throughout a house. However, this doesn't mean using the same color scheme in every room – how boring would that be! It does, however, mean a smooth color transition from one room to the next.

One connecting color will serve to accomplish this. It could be a soft sage green shade – or robin's egg blue – or buttercup yellow – any color actually. The key is to use your connecting color in varying degrees of intensity from room to room. Sometimes your main color in one room would then be better used as an accent color in an adjoining room. It might be carpeting in one room; walls in another; an occasional chair in a third; an element in the drapery fabric in a fourth.

It's also extremely important to add one unexpected fun, splash color into your basic color scheme. Did you know that when we walk into any room, our eyes crave visual movement? And by adding a splash color – something unexpected into your overall color scheme, you instantly add visual interest into your design plan!

Think about a basic color scheme of buttercup yellow, sage greens, and warm winter whites. Most would find this a calming color palette, and can easily visualize carrying varying degrees of intensity of these colors from room to room. But just think about the awesome impact a splash color could add! How about introducing a warm coral shade into this color scheme. By cleverly using this color in accent or accessory pieces, and then moving these colored accents strategically around your room – you've immediately created a much more pleasing design plan,full of impact and visual interest!

And if you love to rearrange your furniture – just think of the possibilities color continuity from room to room affords! All your furniture pieces, as well as your accessories can be easily interchangeable color wise room to room!

It's Only A Little Paint

2010-10-25T08:36:00.000-04:00

In the 1800s, most Americans painted their walls white. Only wealthy people had color in their rooms, because colored paint was very expensive. Today, color is accessible to everyone and it can make a room come alive.

The main goal of using color is to give a room a new look. Turning away from the neutral palette is a great way to add spirit to a space and give things their own personality. Here are some tips for pulling it off:

1. Deep red walls do more than just add color — they create a mood that brings down the brightness of the surroundings, providing a feeling of being encompassed by the room. They also set neutral furniture off.

2. The trick with working with sunshiny-bright yellow is selecting upholstery and accessories to match the walls. Find a painting or a floral or patterned chintz that combines different bright colors, and use that as a guideline.

3. Not all strong colors are stimulating. Forest-green walls can blend beautifully with mahogany furniture, and the contrasting colors are comfortable because they're found in nature.

4. Dark colors recede. When a room is painted a dark to medium color, the color will actually make the room look larger rather than bringing the walls in, which is a common concern.

5. You don't need to commit to painting the walls intense shades to have a room all about color. Painting the various colors found in furniture behind a wall of bookshelves can create a theatrical backdrop for favorite pieces, for example.

6. When in doubt about a color, don't limit yourself to small color chips. Paint big sheets of cardboard and prop them up in the room in question. This gives you a better idea of what it's going to look like.

Five Easy Ways to Get Green in the Kitchen and Bath

2010-10-19T16:58:00.000-04:00

Five Easy Ways to Get Green in the Kitchen and Bath

Happy National Kitchen and Bath Month! Okay, so you’re not probably out shopping for gifts for the occasion, but we figure it’s a great time to look at easy ways to conserve energy in two of the most important rooms in your home. After all, with these savings you’ll have a little extra green for the upcoming holiday season.

    1.    Ambient Lighting. A kitchen may require six or more recessed floodlights for ample illumination. Outfit them with low-voltage, LED or CFL lighting to get the most bang for your buck. LEDs and low-voltage systems require special drivers and transformers, so let your Yale lighting consultant know if you have questions.

    2.    Accent and Task Lighting. For everyday tasks or to showcase your cabinets, go with low-voltage or LED under-cabinet or in-cabinet lighting. They’ll give a warm glow, plus some cool savings.

    3.    Dimmers. The perfect solution for adjusting lighting to fit the mood while trimming back on energy usage. Even at their most intense levels, dimmers provide a savings. Try a whole house dimming system to control lighting output in every room from one centralized location.

    4.    Paddle Fans. Kitchens get hot. Why not use that hot air to warm adjacent rooms? Paddle fans push hot air that rises to the ceiling into nearby rooms in the winter and chill the air in the summer.
Pair it with an energy-efficient lighting kit and you’ve got yourself an energy-saving double-whammy.

    5.    Ventilating Fans. They’ve made tremendous strides in energy-efficiency and functionality. Look for those with the ENERGY STAR label for 70% less energy usage and superior noise reduction.

Are You Unhappy With Your Homes Color?

2010-10-18T20:42:00.000-04:00

Are you unhappy with your home's interior design? If so, you may be the victim of a bad color scheme. It's no secret that color can either make or break a design, but luckily, neither is finding out how to choose the perfect color palette for you.

When the color's right, it can:
• Enhance feelings of health and wellbeing
• Modify perceived temperature — make your space feel warmer or cooler
• Transform perceived space — make your space feel larger, or more cozy and intimate
• Illuminate dark areas • Create mystery and romance in dull areas 
• Energize static areas

But it has to be the right color for you. Color, and the psychology of color, is a big design trend says Barbara Pettinella, principal of Decorating Den Interiors- Hockessin/Greenville. "But generalizations — green is relaxing, blue is soothing, red is energizing — only apply when certain hues are used," she says. "A sharp, electric green definitely would not be relaxing; a deep blue-green might feel cold instead of soothing. The wrong red used in an entire room might create the sensation of entrapment rather than energy." Look at McDonald’s and Burger King. Those bright yellows and oranges are meant to get you in and out of the restaurant quickly. They are not colors that you want to linger around and have a great meal.

Before planning color in your personal environment, make a mini-questionnaire and poll yourself and your family. Your answers are 50 percent of the project because your color choices depend on them for direction,. She asks her clients many questions, but you can start with these five. The answers will lead you to your new color scheme.

1. Where is the room?
2. How many windows are there and which direction do they face?
3. Is there landscaping outside that will have an effect on the colors in the room?
4. Who will use the room, and what will they do there? Is it private or community space?
5. Will it be a sociable and active place, or a peaceful place? How do I want it to feel?

Sharpie Fall Fashion

2010-10-15T10:44:00.000-04:00

Sharpie Fall Fashion

Fall In Love With Color!

2010-10-12T09:01:00.000-04:00

Fall In Love with Color!

How do you choose a color scheme? It’s really quite easy – but first you have to fall in love! Fall in love with a painting, fall in love with wallpaper, an area rug, even a floral arrangement – and the color scheme of your dreams will magically appear! Anything with a pattern – including upholstery or drapery can give your color choices a wonderful starting place.

When developing your color scheme, remember the 60%-30%-10% rule of thumb. Your favorite color should play a dominant role (60%), while other colors should be proportionate to your dominant color focus.

Historically, there were definite rules about what colors went in what room of your home. Pale colors tended to be used in more formal settings, while bright primaries were associated with more contemporary, fun looks. But, for today’s color choices, whatever you enjoy--go for it!

Treating Your Windows With Creativity and Flair!

2010-10-10T17:18:00.000-04:00

Treating Your Windows With Creativity and Flair!

When you’re flipping through the pages of your favorite design magazine or even looking at model homes, what catches your eye first? Would it surprise you to know that most homeowners find their eyes drawn to creatively designed window treatments?

Why? Well, maybe it’s because most homeowners have a wide variety of window shapes, styles, and sizes to address when decorating their own homes. We’re always looking for fresh ideas…or maybe... we’re simply daunted by all the windows we’re dealing with and the myriad of choices available!

One of your first decisions is recognizing what you want to accomplish when you cover your windows. Some homeowners are adamant about not obstructing wonderful vistas, while others have an unsightly view they want to mask. In addition to whether you want to cover or enhance your view, basic light and privacy needs, sizes, shapes, and styles must be taken into consideration. If everything is carefully considered in creating a custom window treatment design, the finished product will be a window treatment that enhances not only a window but your entire room, while offering the necessary privacy and light control.

After determining what your window treatment will do, consider the theme or style of the room…casual, contemporary, traditional, or trendy. Once you’ve defined your style, think “out of the box” for hardware needs. For example, in a family room with a casual sports theme, consider using golf clubs or even pool cues as window treatment hardware. In a trendy or contemporary room, perhaps a high-tech, quasi-industrial look of cable wires for drapery hardware will dramatically enhance your design.

Color Quickies

2010-10-05T22:52:00.000-04:00

1. Forget the rule that white will make a space appear larger. White will only reflect the available light. If you have a small room with little light, it will reflect the shadows, making the space more desolate.

2. Select cool colors for a relaxing interior. They tend to slow us down, and give us a calm feeling.

3. Need a little energy? Then warm colors are the ticket because they tend to be very stimulating. Yellow, for instance, is associated with the mind and actually stimulates mental activity i.e., yellow legal paper and yellow Post-It notes.

4. Need a little more balance in your life? Then give green a try. Green is the only color that has no effect on the physical system, because it contains both warmth (from yellow) and coolness (from blue).

5. Bright colors are fast paced. If your life isn't, then adding some bright colors to your surroundings might give your energy a little boost.

Design Tips 101

2010-10-04T09:00:00.000-04:00

Always mix up the textures.

Move things around so that you have opposites in the same room (eg. metal, wool, wood, ceramic)

Too many hard surfaces (or soft ones) will make a room less interesting.

When in doubt, go with organic accessories and colors

Always go bolder than you think you should.

Small patterns and scaled down furniture will actually make your home look smaller.

Put something in your room just because you love it.

Your taste is unique to you, own your ideas.

Look for everyday small appliances that reflect your style. When you replace them don't automatically buy generic ones. Do a little research and see if you can find ones that are both functional and decorative.

Four Tips For Bedroom Illumunation

2010-09-26T13:07:00.000-04:00

Your bedroom is where you begin and end each day – a place to unwind and escape. A well-designed, energy efficient lighting plan will create a comfortable atmosphere, enhancing your lifestyle and encouraging rest and relaxation.
For sweet dreams and even sweeter savings, keep these four bedroom lighting tips in mind:
    1.    Create an Ambient Glow. Your central light source doesn’t need to be overpowering to be effective. Select one that fits your unique style – from an exquisite chandelier to a clean, contemporary fixture. You can even add some beautiful shades. This eliminates the bare bulb look. Then, outfit it with a dimmer switch to save green and adjust light levels to your mood. This is all about the "drama". The good kind of drama! 
    2.    Stay on Task. Choose light fixtures that illuminate everyday tasks in the bedroom. For reading, try wall-mounted, swing-arm or bedside lamps on each side of the bed. For getting ready, install lights on either side of your vanity. Again, dimmers are key here – providing complete control over light levels. 
    3.    Accent-uate Your Best Features. Illuminate a favorite painting or sculpture with inconspicuous LED accent lights. They add a pleasing glow to the room’s focal point, and are super-energy-efficient. 
    4.    Be a “Fan” Fan. Reduce your energy bill and enjoy year-round comfort. Ceiling fans chill the air in the summer and push warm air down from the ceiling during the winter. No need to sacrifice style for savings – they come in every size, finish and style. Some even have remotes, and you know you'll have to pry that away from the "remote king".

Decorating Den Interiors-Barbara Pettinella - A Room With A View

2010-09-07T20:00:00.000-04:00

Decorating Den Interiors-Barbara Pettinella - A Room With A View

Decorating Den Interiors-Barbara Pettinella - A twist on Traditional

2010-09-07T19:59:00.000-04:00

Decorating Den Interiors-Barbara Pettinella - A twist on Traditional

Decorating Den Interiors-Barbara Pettinella - Tuscany Transition

2010-09-07T19:53:00.000-04:00

Decorating Den Interiors-Barbara Pettinella - Tuscany Transition

What is Thread Count?

2010-09-06T12:52:00.000-04:00

The most important thing to understand about thread count is higher numbers do not mean better quality. In fact, there is an argument to be made that a lower thread count may be a more comfortable sheet. Let me explain.

First, you have to understand thread count. The right way to calculate this involves adding up all of the vertical and horizontal threads (warp and weft) in a square inch of fabric. There are only so many threads you can realistically fit into a square inch and generally speaking, anything over 300 is more perceived value than real value. Many companies exaggerate the number by counting the number of ply’s in a yarn, so a 300 count sheet using a 2 ply yarn may be promoted as a 600 count.

The key element most people don’t think about when purchasing sheets is how they sleep. Everyone perspires while sleeping, so ideally you would want a sheet that is breathable and absorbent, as well as being soft and comfortable. Higher thread counts mean a tighter weave and consequently a sheet that does not breathe as well, or a hotter sleep. If you live in a warm climate already, sleeping with a higher thread count may just make your nights even warmer.

Selecting a good quality sheet involves looking for a brand that uses 100% cotton. Cotton is still one of the best fabrics when it comes to comfort, durability and care. In August 2005, Consumer Reports issued a report about high thread count sheets from nationally known brands and concluded; “Two hundred is typical and perfectly fine; 400 may provide a finer, softer sheet. Above 400, the only difference is likely to be price.”

Contemporary Design Tips

2010-08-29T10:07:00.000-04:00

Contemporary Design Tips

1. Create balance - To get a feeling of harmony in your home create balance in your decorating. Pay attention to the details! It could be a theme, a fabric or a color that you repeat. If your favorite color is red,(but the family think that is to much to paint the living room wall in that color), add some red details to the area instead, red pillows, red curtains, a painting with red in it, red area rug… Do not clutter, keep it simple.

2. Choose some encouraging words to put on your wall - Make your home personal. What inspires you and your family? Decorating should be personal and what is more personal than an inspiring message on the wall. It could be a classic message or words you put together yourselves. I personally have - Do the thing you think you can not do, by Eleanor Roosevelt inspiring me daily, on my wall. You can paint them your selves or use templates. You can also order online.
3. Rearrange the furniture you have - Rearrange the furniture you already own, it will not get cheaper than that. Sometimes by just changing the setting you will get a totally new room. Clean out what you don’t like or want. Change position of a chair, move a picture… Do not put all your furniture along the wall, if you have a long room try to move the couch out in the middle of the room or maybe an armchair. If you have a book shelf you can divide your long room in to two sections. Put a nice fabric on the back and it will look great from both sides.

4. Play with your light - Great light is very important, critical to a lot of interior decorators. Nothing can uplift a room as much as the right light does. You can play with colored lamps and put light were it surprises you. Buy a new lamp or move the lights around, try what works for you. One idea is to put rope light along a stairway or an outdoor entrance.

5. Concentrate the art - Make a picture wall or a wall with art, with a different shape, use your imagination to create the outer shape of the frames. Have the same frames in different sizes, in line with the same distance between the frames. The main rule is to line the pictures up either by bottom edge or top edge of the frames or have a mid line between the pictures. The picture looks best in eye level. Big colorful paintings do themselves best on a big wall with a lot of space around the piece. You can also group pictures with similar motives, colors or feeling together. Try different combinations before you start putting the nails in the walls. Putting a light on a special picture or painting, can make a huge difference.

6. Modern with fabric - Fabric is a fantastic material that comes in so many colors and patterns. You can get them in large wall hangings or smaller pieces of fabric on a frame. They are very affordable. Check out www.avecdeco.com they have fantastic contemporary style wall hangings. They also have a lot of Scandinavian inspired products.

7. Use all your senses - It is not just what we see and feel that is importing to decorating but also what we smell, taste and hear. A fresh bouquet of flowers is the oldest quickest decorating idea. There is something special about fresh air so make sure you get that fresh air in your house, often. You can also use your favorite candle or incense and of course make sure you have some nice music to listen to, this will make a different in the total impression.

Color in the Bath

2010-08-07T19:14:00.000-04:00

    •    Creams and taupes have long been popular color choices for the bath because they wear well and fit easily into any design scheme at resale time. These soft colors are giving way to bolder choices in color, often borrowed from children’s baths. The new palettes create a cheerful, fun space to wake up to each morning.
    •    For the greatest impact, add color to the largest surfaces in the room: walls, floors, countertops.
    •    An easy way to add and incorporate color in the bath is to introduce color in wall tiles. This color or element is then repeated in small amounts, such as with an inset or border, on the floor.
    •    Larger stones and slabs in crisp glass and stone materials are particularly suited to contemporary designs.
    •    While color is often associated with contemporary designs, it also works well in traditional designs since, historically, the bathroom was often full of muted and bright colored tiles.
    •    Neutral colors are often chosen for resale purposes. The chances are, however, that if you like the colors you use in the bath, someone else will, too. The color might become a selling point rather than a disadvantage.
    •    Towels and accessories are a quick way to add color to the bath. Also, oil rubbed bronzes, stainless steel and enamel faucets can add a burst of unexpected color. Pendant light fixtures also bring an added design element with color and form.

Accent Furniture?

2010-08-01T20:00:00.000-04:00

Although a supporting player for years, accent furniture has recently taken spotlight status as the star in home décor. Certainly, it still serves the purpose of providing interest in an already functional room, but more often these days designers are using accent furniture for all their furniture needs.

Gone are the days of the matching suite’s dominance. In fact, the seeming consensus holds that the matching suite of furniture is a somewhat dull design option. Intriguing designs in a wide range of prices make accent furnishings the perfect choice for those homeowners seeking a change.

If you usually play it safe by having everything match, now is the time to step out of your comfort zone and dare to be eclectic. In the living room, if you have matching tables, chairs and lamps – divide and conquer. Remove one or two of your wood tables and replace with a glass-topped, iron-based table. Add a single ottoman or a chair covered in a dramatic animal print. Eliminate one of a pair of table lamps and substitute with a stately floor lamp. If all your upholstered furniture sports the same fabric, break the monotony by recovering one or two pieces.

When stuck with a suite of bedroom furniture, you can make a striking difference by changing the bed. Introduce a sumptuous padded headboard or an impressive iron canopy bed. Break the set of night tables and replace one with a rectangular skirted table, a round-tiered table, or a painted chest.

In your dining room, replace the two end chairs with fully upholstered ones that are of a different style and color than the side chairs. Or eliminate the breakfront and replace it with a beautifully printed buffet and a grand mirror.

Conveniently, with the addition of today’s array of unique accent pieces, you can work around many of your existing furnishings to spice up your home’s décor. Call your personal decorator to find out more

The Warmth of Wood

2010-07-25T19:24:00.001-04:00

Wood furnishings are usually very precious to us, our rooms, our overall furnishing plan and our budget. Perhaps you've inherited a precious heirloom. Or maybe you've decided it's time to invest in new wood pieces to enhance the beauty of a newly designed room. In any case, properly caring for these pieces will insure their long life.

It's important to remember that the wood used for your furniture pieces were designed and manufactured was once part of a living, breathing tree. Before it's created into the beautiful piece you've just purchased, the wood was first carefully dried, typically in a kiln. This is done so that excess moisture can be removed. It's important that the wood retains some moisture, so that it can easily adapt to the relative indoor humidity of your home.

In winter months, when your heating system is much more active, the wood in your furniture tends to lose moisture and shrink just slightly. And, during summer months, or rainy times, when humidity is high, moisture is absorbed into the wood from the air. That's why you may notice that the halves of the extension table in your dining room part slightly during dry cold winters – or that the doors on your cabinets tend to stick on rainy summer days.

For the best protection of your fine wood furniture try to keep the relative humidity of your home at about 25 to 35 percent. Also, it's important that you avoid placing furniture in front of radiators, heating vents or fireplaces. And don't forget, that natural sunlight can be very cruel to your furniture's finish. Never place a piece of fine wood furniture in front of a window where it will be subjected to the sun's harsh rays.

Be sure to consult the manufacturer's directions for details on how best to care for your new furniture pieces. I suggest that my clients keep these instructions filed away for future reference. Manufacturer recommendations may suggest a special brand of wax, and it's important that it be applied as directed. In between any special applications, frequent dusting is advisable. Use a soft cloth that has been slightly moistened to prevent a build up of dust.

Care for your wood furniture properly, and someday it promised to become a most treasured heirloom!

So, You Want Leather...

2010-07-25T19:22:00.000-04:00

Did you know that over half the furniture sold worldwide today is covered in leather? Leather furnishings are considered by many to be romantic, extravagant, sophisticated, long lasting, and very comfortable. All these wonderful reasons make leather-upholstered items a perfect choice for many of today's consumers.

Leather for home furnishings products comes from around the world. A majority of hides are produced in Europe - particularly Italy - and South America. Leather is not limited to sofa and chair coverings, but can also be incorporated into design accessories such as leather framed mirrors, picture frames, lamps, lampshades, area rugs and even window treatments!

Before leather covering can be utilized as upholstery for home furnishings and accessories, hides are subjected to a judging and dyeing process. Once leather hides arrive at a tannery for processing, they are hand-sorted based on quality.

The hides with the fewest imperfections are cut into layers. The top layer, called "top" or "full" grain, is the highest quality layer, and is also the layer of the hide that lies closest to the animal. The second and third layers are called "splits" and can also be used for covering furniture. This is often the grade of leather used in promotional furniture. Once the hides are sorted and cut into layers, the leather is colored by using one of three dyeing methods.

The highest quality layers of leather are colored using a translucent, pure aniline dye. This dye process renders beautiful color variations in the leather. Since this process is used on unfinished, top-quality leather, the finished product usually has a softer feel. Another coloring process, also used on top-grain hides, is a surface finish application, called semi-aniline. This method produces a uniform color look. A third coloring procedure, called pigmented, coats the leather surface uniformly with an opaque color. This durable process covers most imperfections in the leather, and is very commonly used.

Since the purchase of leather furniture for your home can be a long lasting investment, it's important that you make a wise decision about what type of leather furniture will work best for you, and ultimately give you the look and feel that you desire. And what better way to make that investment than to work with a professional and knowledgeable decorator?

Thinking About a Kitchen Remodel?

2010-07-19T19:45:00.000-04:00

It isn't surprising that the kitchen is the number one spot in the home to remodel. Considered the heart of the home, the kitchen is probably the most frequently utilized room in your home. The kitchen also plays an important factor in selling your home. Most buyers today are looking for an updated kitchen when purchasing a new home.

Below are some quick and easy tips on how to redecorate your kitchen:

Change the current lighting. Lighting often gets overlooked in a home, but it is one of the easiest ways to create a new look for a room. Don't be afraid to add some glass pendants or a chandelier.

Paint- Is a quick way to update your kitchen without spending lots of money is to repaint the room. If you are on a tight budget you can also paint or restain your kitchen cabinets. Just choose the correct paint at a paint store.

Change out the doors and especially the hardware on your cabinets. You would be surprised a what a difference this few little changes make.
Refacing your kitchen cabinets is another way to save on remodeling costs. Figure that a big kitchen remodel typically will cost about 10% of the value of the home. You will also get your biggest return on your investment here.

Replace the area rug in your kitchen. It's a small thing, but it's a simple and quick way to update the colors.

Replace an older kitchen faucet for a new one. There are some new colors like oiled bronze and copper.

Finally, make sure all the appliances are the same color. The new appliances today are much more energy efficient than ever. If your appliances are more than 15 years ago, it might be time to replace them with a more efficient model.

What light bulbs are you using?

2010-07-08T22:09:00.000-04:00

Bulb Type

Secondly, determine the purpose (which helps you choose the type of bulb to use). Are you creating a room for relaxation, specific tasks (such as studying) or do you need general lighting? Here is some general information about the three most common bulbs used today.

Incandescent:

In order to create a warmer, more inviting living space, you should use incandescent light bulbs. This type of bulb will be able to generate that particular mood or atmosphere because it tends to cast a slight yellow tone. This is the most common type of bulb found in homes today. It is the cheapest to buy but is sadly the least efficient. Some types of incandescent bulbs include: A-bulbs, Reflector bulbs, Globe shaped bulbs and Par bulbs.

Fluorescent:

These energy efficient lights are very bright and are thus, good for lighting detailed projects, such as reading fine print or sewing. While they are efficient, a common reason for disliking them is that their light lacks warmth and can appear harsh. Some types of fluorescent bulbs include: T-12, T-8, circular fluorescents and compact fluorescents (which are the most popular of the fluorescents). They come in 2 foot, 4 foot and 8 foot lengths.

Halogen:

This type of bulb uses a halogen gas which heats to a very high temperature, and through chemical reaction, deposits tungsten back on the filament. The bulbs last considerably longer than incandescent bulbs and provide bright, yet soft, quartz lighting. The best use for Halogens is in fixtures and lamps because they provide clear white light. Do not use in homes with small children because the bulbs get quite hot.

Chandeliers are a bright idea

2010-07-08T22:00:00.000-04:00

You would be surprised how quality and creative lighting can change the ambience of your home. And, lighting is one of the easiest and most cost-effective improvements you can make. All it takes is some inspiration. For this reason we provide you with a few extra guidelines to help you choose the right chandelier for your home.

Make sure to think about room size, bulb type, fixture colors and wattage.

Size

For starters, a basic rule of thumb for choosing the right size chandelier requires a few measurements. Determine the length and width of the room and add those figures together. The sum, converted to inches, will equal the diameter of the correct size chandelier.

Example:

Your dining room is 16 ft. x 12 ft. Knowing that 16 + 12 is 28, the proper size chandelier for the dining room would be 28 inches in diameter. Keep in mind, the minimum diameter of the chandelier should be about half the width of your table.

Things to Keep in Mind

Also consider, some areas in your home may be used as task areas and may need extra illumination such as a kitchen work island or a desk area where schoolwork is done. For these task areas, multiply length by width, then multiply that number by 2.5 (rather than 1.5) for extra wattage.

Keeping these guidelines in mind, you should now be able to select the right size chandelier, the appropriate bulb type, and the amount of wattage necessary for any room in your home. Since they are the rooms most often seen by company, the most popular rooms to feature chandeliers include the Dining Room, Living Room, and Foyer. Other rooms that are recently featuring chandeliers include Large Bathrooms, Bedrooms, Kitchens, Kitchen Nooks, and Studios.

Choosing the right style for the room of choice is up to you. It is suggested that chandeliers match the theme of the room, but is certainly not required. So use these guidelines to help narrow down the field, and have fun shopping for your chandelier!

Authentic Benjamin Moore Paint Colors for Architects and Designers

2010-07-01T17:09:00.000-04:00

Authentic Benjamin Moore Paint Colors for Architects and Designers

We crave our outdoor spaces in Wilmington

2010-06-30T21:58:00.000-04:00

We crave our outdoor spaces in Wilmington

Wilmington paint stores promote healthy paint

2010-06-30T21:57:00.000-04:00

Wilmington paint stores promote healthy paint

Color in nature at The Hagley Museum

2010-06-30T21:56:00.000-04:00

Color in nature at The Hagley Museum

Delaware's duPont Winterthur Museum

2010-06-25T21:03:00.000-04:00

One of the most impressive jewels in the duPont family crown is Winterthur Museum. From a design stand point, it is a must see. If you have never been to this gorgeous former country home/museum, then you are truly missing out. From the beautiful appointed gardens to the children's Enchanted Woods you will not be disappointed.

Then there is the house. If you could really call this mansion on the estate , a house. Take the house tour. The docents are a wealth of information. The house belonged to Henry Francis duPont (1880-1969) who modeled it after the country homes of Europe in the late 18th and early 19th century. It has the most stunning circular staircase that you can imagine. It is a feat of brilliant mathematical ingenuity. The home was envisioned as a museum from the beginning. H. F. duPont was accomplished horticulturalist and a passionate collector of antiques. Just notice as you stroll through the house the vast collections of teas sets and dishes.

The small selection of rooms that you can see on the tour are fully furnished in the period of the time. A good amount come from George Washington's time as H.F. was an avid collector of this period. The dining room is amazing and you will see how all of the furnishings coordinate with everything else in the room. The home is a primer for the interior designer and anyone who is interested in design o rdecorating.

If you fancy yourself an artist, come and bring your paints and paint the gardens. There is plenty to inspire you from color, to design. To the designer in you, the house, the fabrics and the decor will certainly inspire you.

Light Up Your Landscaping

2010-06-13T19:57:00.000-04:00

Landscape lighting that if well chosen and well placed can transform any property at night creating dramatic focal points in such ordinary objects as trees, shrubs and buildings. Not only can it add beauty to a property it can also add safety and security. Falls and other accidents are far less likely in well lit areas, and intruders prefer breaking into dim lit properties over well lit ones.

Typically landscape lighting is low voltage using 12 volt electrical instead of 120 volt. Not only does this reduce the chance of injury to people or animals if they should come in contact with the wires but also helps keep the electrical costs down of using the landscape lighting. In the last few years LED landscape lighting has also become an attractive option.

There are some beautiful options available to the marketplace. You can even go solar. The light from the solar lights however is a more blue light and really is better for just ambiance, since you will get much better light from a system that is hard wired. It is really simple to do this yourself. It requires the lights, the wire and a transformer that you could locate in your garage or basement. So pick out some beautiful new lights and light it up!

What's for Dessert? Cupcakes With Crushed Raspberry Cream Recipe | Canadian House & Home

2010-06-11T14:24:00.000-04:00

Cupcakes With Crushed Raspberry Cream Recipe | Canadian House & Home

Decorating Your Outdoor Spaces

2010-06-10T18:08:00.001-04:00

The line between indoors and outdoors continues to blur as many of us want to take our indoor comforts and solitude outdoors. This concept is becoming more realistic as many manufacturers of home products develop more and more appliances, furniture, lighting and accessories that can be used indoors or out.

People are driven to find peaceful sanctuaries as a prescription for our stressful lives. Outdoor patios and porches are becoming more sophisticated and refined, and are becoming a living extension of the indoor spaces. Three season indoor spaces are also making a come back.

Creating or renovating an outdoor space has many elements. Landscape design, stonework and carpentry are all critical components of designing your outdoor haven. Outdoor furnishings, lighting and accessories are also an essential element in your overall plan. As you begin the process and consider space planning and design be sure to include the entire family. You will be amazed at the wish list that you come up with.

Your outdoor space should accommodate all your needs throughout the year. Do you entertain outdoors? Make sure that there will be enough seating for your larger parties. Do you spend time outdoors in the evenings and at night? Make sure that you have adequate lighting and bug control included in your plan. Is the outdoor grill seasonal for you or all year round? Where you place the grill and whether it has a protective roof will make a difference depending on how you use it. Do you plan to have your family meals outdoors often? If so make sure that your dining area comfortably accommodates your family and then some.

Outdoor furniture has greatly evolved from the folding, vinyl strap versions of the past, to beautiful pieces made of teak, steel, rattan, and wicker. Many pieces look just like indoor furniture but are constructed and designed to stand up to the North Eastern outdoor elements.

Fabrics are being manufactured to resist fading from ultraviolet rays, to resist mildewing from damp conditions and to resist odor absorption. These types of fabrics are a must for any upholstery or drapery that will be used outdoors or in a screened-in location.

Lighting is also a very important aspect in creating an inviting outdoor space. Be sure you incorporate various types of lighting in your outdoor space just as you would in your indoor spaces. Landscape lighting, overhead lighting, ceiling fans or decorative side lighting are good ideas. Torches or tiki lighting can also be a charming and functional element to your lighting plan. Developing a creative lighting plan can help you create a space with increased ambiance and functionality.

Remember to create a space that is perfect for you and your needs. This is a space where memories will be made so consider it an important investment. I like to call an investment like this an emotional anchor: a space where your family gathers, shares and remembers forever.

Color It Sold, Part 7

2010-06-07T22:48:00.000-04:00

The last word. I’m often asked what are a few things I’d do to make a house appealing to buyers, if I could only do three things. Here they are:

1) Paint. You can transform any home with cans of paint and a well-planned palette. If it’s been years since you’ve painted, it might be time to freshen up your look. If possible, tour model homes and see what palettes are popular with buyers in your area, and see which ones are absent. Create a palette idea for your home, and always test the paint colors faithfully before committing them to an entire wall. Perfectly-sized paint samples in your favorite colors are available for testing.

2) De-clutter. They way we live vs. the way we live when our homes are for sale, should look pretty different. Consider moving non-essentals into a storage unit, or have that garage sale now, before your home sells. Buyers want to see your lovely home, not your stuff.

3) Do all those little projects you meant to do when you first bought your house (you know the ones!) Those projects are the ones you saw when you bought the house and told yourself you would change right away, but then you lived with them awhile and got used to the tarnished gold faucet, the ceiling fan in primary colors, the broken light switchplate. You’ve gotten used to them, but your buyers won’t.

Happy home-selling!

Color It Sold, Part 6

2010-06-07T22:45:00.000-04:00

Heart of the home. Painting the kitchen is often the first, and sometimes only, room that gets painted when you move into a new home. The kitchen and adjacent eating area of family room is likely considered the “heart” of your home.

Buyers gravitate toward those rooms, and they can make or break a sale. If you’ve chosen a nice neutral color for the majority of your home’s interior, the kitchen area is where you’ll want to kick it up a notch with color while keeping it neutral enough to appeal to a wide group of buyers.

Color It Sold, Part 5

2010-06-07T22:35:00.000-04:00

Reconsider the red dining room. Red has been a popular color for the last several years, because it makes a bold statement in the one room you expect a bold statement! There are many gorgeous shades of red in dining rooms across your town. But if you just can't bring yourself to be that bold, try a neutral. Think warm Chocolate!

Color It Sold, Part 4

2010-06-07T22:32:00.000-04:00

A colorful welcome.It sets the tone. The mood is set before a buyer ever walks through the front door. A welcoming front door puts buyers in the right frame of mind for touring your home.

Fresh flowers in the Spring and the Summer, Pumpkins and Fall Flowers in the Autumn. Fresh Holly and greens in the Winter.

Now it not the time to drag out a left over can of paint from another painting project. Treat yourself and your door to a fresh and beautiful color. Try some colors above your welcome mat!

Color It Sold, Part 3

2010-06-07T22:26:00.000-04:00

Variety is the spice of life, up to a point. Enhancing a home for sale by adding or changing paint is more than just choosing a beige paint and coating every wall with it. Too much beige begins to look like too much white, but too many paint colors throughout your home just looks like too much. Choosing buyer-friendly paint palettes gives you a chance to capitalize on your home’s personality, and even soften your home’s flaws.

You’ll want to keep your palette somewhat small when selling your home. Choose a unifying neutral for your entry, halls, and several rooms. The goal with your pre-sale paint makeover is to appeal to the widest possible audience, and at the same time do everything you can to prevent disqualification.

Color It Sold, Part 2

2010-06-07T22:23:00.000-04:00

Less is definitely more. Unless the wallpaper or wallpaper borders were put up in your home in the last five years, you may want to consider removing them. If you have a lot of wallpaper, or are not sure if it looks dated, ask your Realtor or a good friend who will be honest, if the wallpaper dates the house.

While removing it can be a pain, not removing dated wallpaper can turn buyers off. Buyers don’t want to remove it either. Some painters can successfully paint over wallpaper, but this is best left to an expert to decide if it’s possible. While you’re at it, take a hard look at your window treatments, too. If your fabric valances were put up around the same time as your wallpaper, it might be time to retire them, too.

But don't be afraid of wallpaper. The papers today are sophisticated and are easily removed. It might be just the "pop" you need to make your house go from ho hum, to wow, how about that!

Color It Sold, Part 1

2010-06-07T22:18:00.000-04:00

Conventional wisdom dictated for years that when you sell your home, the first thing you need to do is paint all the walls white. I sold a home in Ohio some years ago, and the first Realtor that wanted my listing told me over the phone that, sight unseen, I needed to paint all the walls white. No exceptions. Luckily, I found a wonderful Realtor that came out to my home and declared that the beautiful wall colors would enhance the prospect of a sale, not detract. The home sold the first day, with multiple offers, and there was not one white wall in that house!

Thanks to the explosive interest in networks like HGTV and DIY, home buyers are more sophisticated, and expect a home to have distinct personality. I’ve worked with countless homeowners to choose the right paint color to enhance their home, and put their home at the top of a buyer’s short-list.

I’ll share with you some of the the tips that I give my clients for getting their home in sell-ready shape!

Hot Colors For Spring

2010-06-05T15:22:00.000-04:00

COLOR MARKETING GROUP PREDICTS THIS SPRING’S HOT COLOR
BAREFOOTIN’

Alexandria, VA– What’s the hot new color for Spring of 2010? According to Color Marketing Group, the leading international organization of color design professionals which has been successfully predicting color trends for 48 years, it’s Barefootin’!

‘Think of the last time you slipped off your shoes....ahhh”. This is how James Martin, President of CMG, describes Barefootin’. “It is just that feeling.” The need to ease up on stress and strain brought this new “color infused” neutral to the forefront. With its roots in orange, an often highly energized, vivacious color, Barefootin’ has taken a step back to soothe a weary psyche, but without being dull.

Appealing across product lines, it takes on the sheens and special effects with equal success, especially in fabrics. In a matte finish, it recalls the softened views of sandy beaches and gloss conjures lacquerware and porcelain surfaces. It enhances metallics, especially as a foil to copper, and shows its “party side” when embedded with iridescence for some glitz. This new interpretation of a vintage color pairs wonderfully with today’s newest soft and muted grays.

According to CMG, look for these additional color trends in 2010: Red – Reds are strong with pink intuition; bright and clean with energy and excitement -- a clean pop to go with neutrals. Yellow – A greener, more natural yellow, softened with gray. Green – Optimistic and uplifting, a clear and bright accent green with a slight shift toward blue. Blue – A saturated blue with gray influences; rich without being too luxe. Beige-Brown – A true chameleon to complement darker hues, it can be either matte or metallic. Neutral-Gray – Gray with a touch of purple, drawing inspiration from mineral, concrete and steel.
xxx
Color Marketing Group, founded in 1962 and based in Alexandria, Virginia, USA, is an international association of color design professionals. CMG’s major focus is to forecast the direction in which color is developing across multiple industries.

QUICK DECORATING TIPS

2010-06-01T21:13:00.000-04:00

QUICK DECORATING TIPS

#1: GREENERY!! Nothing can add so much spark for such a modest investment!   Everyone likes plants and flowers, but too few give them credit for being a decorative accent. Plants cheer up a room and humanize it by adding nature’s own basic color – Green! And beautifully designed floral arrangements will not only help pull your room’s color scheme together, but will bring a bit of the outdoors in!

#2: PIANOS! Positioning a piano isn’t always easy, but if you love yours, you’ll find a way that’s good for it and for your room. If it’s a grand piano, the curved side should face the room and the straight side should be parallel to the wall. Never place a piano on an outside wall. It's bad for the sound board.

#3: PLAN AHEAD! Keep a scrapbook of design ideas, color combinations and room layouts that you find particularly pleasing. This will help you and your professional interior decorator easily focus on your project. When I've looked through the pages that my client has saved, I can always point out the theme that they are attracted to. Sometimes they don't even know what it is that they like about a room.

#4   REMEMBER TO BE PRACTICAL! When selecting fabrics, wall covering, floor covering and furniture, be sure to keep in mind their practical as well as decorative effects. Children and pets must be considered in selecting all your home furnishings products. Practical doesn't mean boring. You may want washable fabrics. I way recommend dry-cleaning. It keeps the integrity of the fabric much longer.

#5 ADD DRAMA TO YOUR WINDOWS! By extending a window treatment further than the window itself, you’ll be able to give smaller sized windows the illusion of greater space and drama. After all, shouldn't the room be dramatic!

#6 LONG TERM INVESTMENTS!   Don’t fall into the trap of buying home furnishings because they’re a bargain. Always make your home furnishings purchases – especially wood and upholstered pieces – a long term investment. You should plan to spend the most on the pieces that you use everyday. You'll be happier in the long run.

Accentuate with Accessories

2010-06-01T21:01:00.000-04:00

More than anything else in your home, your accessories give each and every room a little bit of your personality! Without them, you only have the setting for a model room in a model home.   Accessories make each room come alive with pop and pizzazz! There’s nothing better to help you reflect your tastes and those of your family. Simply stated, a home without accessories is like food without seasonings!

Acquiring accessories is truly a never-ending delight. Whenever and wherever you see something that grabs your eye or catches your attention, acquire it if possible, because it will give you never ending pleasure every time you look at it. Plus it adds a very personal touch to your home.

Ardent collectors of one type of object often purchase them without any thought of what to do with these treasures afterwards. Here are a few ideas of how these precious treasures can be incorporated into a decorative accessory plan for your home.

•    Small artistic objects are most effective when arranged in groups of odd numbered pieces
•    Blocks of wood – or old books can be used to achieve varying degrees of height as you place your accessories
•    Silk plants are always an imaginative addition to an accessory plan
•    It’s not necessary for groupings to consist of similar elements.
•    Old fashioned family portrait photographs are not out of place in a sophisticated room, when grouped in a variety of interesting frames.

Above all, let your imagination soar as you place your precious accessories. By adding this “spice” to your design plan, you’ll be sure to add the decorative finishing touches each room craves.

                       Call me for your Complementary Consultation Today.
                                      Barbara Pettinella 302-239-7315 or
                                   email me at bdpettinella@verizon.net

What’s Your Color Personality

2010-05-28T22:50:00.000-04:00

Did you know that like you, colors have personalities too? For instance, blue is considered a calming color. And red makes people think of danger! A color’s personality can completely transform a room. Here’s a little guide (and examples of my favorite colors) to help you choose a color personality for your rooms.

RED – Hot and spicy, known to actually raise the heart rate! Red is perfect in a dining room because it is thought to increase the appetite. Red has also gained popularity in kitchens and can be used in a family room where activity outweighs relaxation.

ORANGE – Orange generally makes people feel happy and lively and it is much more daring as a color choice than red! A high energy color, orange is great as an unexpected color burst in a room. Orange can energize a dull area such as a laundry room or mudroom.

YELLOW – Sunshiny and happy, yellow is a trickster! It’s very easy for yellow to have green undertones which quickly turn the color to a sickly shade! Stick to golden and buttery yellows to evoke a cheerful vibe in any room.

BLUE – Blue tends to have a calming effect on people so it’s the perfect choice for bedrooms or other restful areas of your home. It has been said that blue decrease a person’s appetite, so be careful in a kitchen! Blue and white is a classic combination and is reinvented in home trends every few years.

GREEN – As a dominant color in nature, green pulls double duty. It is energizing and relaxing at the same time. This combination makes green a perfect choice for offices. Green is peaceful, rejuvenating and refreshing so it’s also a great choice for bedrooms and living rooms.

BROWN – Brown used to mean “blah”. But now brown is the new black-it goes with everything! A rich, deep brown (think chocolate bar) is super versatile. It can be used with most colors – red, black, pink, orange, lime green, powder blue – and it looks fabulous!

PINK – Not just for little girls anymore. Gray undertones give pink a grown up, rich look while saturated pink looks hot! Keep in mind though; pink still has a feminine quality and a softer side. If you’re using pink in rooms for mixed company, make sure to include masculine touches to keep the room in balance.

PURPLE – Purple is regal! But an overuse of purple can make the home feel like a “stage”. Instead use purple sparingly or as an accent to add drama to any room!

BLACK – A classic. Black is a fabulous choice and has grown from accent pieces to upholstery and wall color. If you’re attempting to use large amounts of black in a room, be careful! There is a fine line between luxurious and depressing!

WHITE – Another classic. White feels clean, sleek and sophisticated. Like black, white can be used in both contemporary and traditional looks. When using large amounts of white, make sure to utilize several different tones and textures to avoid a boring, sterile look.

the color you choose for your room can really tell a story and give your home a personality! Let me know if you have Tny specific color questions! I’m happy to help color your world!

Is Your Life Zen?

2010-05-28T08:15:00.000-04:00

When your day is going wrong, when work goes on too long, there’s nothing we want more than to be in our home. This is the mantra of millions of us who want to leave the stress outside when we step in through our front door.

In my work as a designer and color consultant, my client’s goals have changed from simply wanting a more beautiful space, to wanting a sanctuary. Sometimes we don’t want showplaces, we want escape and comfort. Home sellers also seek that zen atmosphere because they know that buyers respond to it. It’s not about decorating a home, it’s about balancing it. It’s that feeling that you, or even a home buyer, will walk in and say “this feels right.. this feels like home.” That’s zen.

I can design a space with perfect balance — I can suggest furniture and accessories that speak to that calming retreat you want. But, it’s color that truly creates the sanctuary we crave. Color sets the mood in your home. If you’re seeking a relaxing place to unwind, your paint color choices are crucial. Starting with a balanced color palette, you can add accessories, linens, and artwork, to help you achieve that relaxed atmosphere.

There is a common misconception about zen in color and design. It doesn’t mean that you decorate in a Japanese style. Zen is a frame of mind, a feeling, and a sense that everything is balanced and “right” in your home. Many offices, restaurants, and retail spaces have embraced that philosophy. The most beautiful hotels and resorts have known this secret for years. A zen color palette is harmonious; It’s that long exhale, that everything-is-right-with-the world feeling when you walk in the door and kick off your shoes.

The Accent Wall

2010-05-22T09:34:00.000-04:00

When I say “Accent Wall”, I am referring to a room where only one wall is painted a color- and the other walls are left white. Usually the wall to be painted was the wall with a focal point- the fireplace wall or the wall with the bed. This is one trend that I am not a huge fan of.

I find that people still have accent walls or want accent walls! Once I get to the root of the preference, I find its usually due to fear of color and what color might do to a room. The biggest fear is that four walls of color will cause a room to be “dark” or “make the room look smaller”.

Accent walls have grown on me. I started to notice good ones in restaurants and retail designs, and I figured out how to apply what I saw to a residential interior. The number one tip for a “good” accent wall in your home is this:

No matter the space, accent walls are best achieved where all the walls are painted a light or medium neutral color and the accent wall is painted a darker color that relates to the neutral or a bold color that contrasts with the neutral. Don’t leave the other walls white!
You can even use wallpaper to make the accent wall. Lots of gorgeous papers are available today. Patterns, textures, glass beads and sands that have been impregnated on the papers. What a fabulous way to make a statement.

To fully execute a good accent wall, a few other considerations come into play:

1) You have to be sure that every other element in your room coordinates (but isn’t “matchy-matchy”!) and carries out the accent colors hue and value. If there is no thought of coordination and balance of color throughout the room, your accent wall will look like floating, unrelated color. Think about coordinating pillows, rug, upholstery fabric and drapery.

2) Think about putting a flower arrangement in your accent color somewhere else in the room. I like the long stemmed florals that are out right now- lots of little blooms on long stems that arc softly downward. Stay away from expected arrangements that can look dated. If you are using a neutral or earthy color, do a stick or grass arrangement. Flowers and natural grasses are a great way to mix that accent color around. Accent colors are great to experiement with. You can switch the color out when you get sick of it, you can play with popular color trends, and best of all- you will be more adventurous with color when you don’t have to be so committed to it!

What about the Foyer Table?

2010-05-16T09:56:00.000-04:00

Sometimes you need a table and you don’t even realize it. But the right accent table can truly be the finishing touch you are searching for to make your room complete. Whether you want to create a beckoning entrance with a stunning foyer table or just need a pedestal to perch your palm plant on it is easy to find what you need in the eclectic genre that is accent tables.

An accent table is defined as a table that complements a decorative style or makes the features in a room stand out. They are available in many sizes, shapes and colors and are crafted from many materials. The best way to find one that makes your room stand out is by doing some comparison shopping online. You’ll be amazed at the styles that are out there from actual tables to pedestals to serving carts.

Wherever you need or don’t need a table you’ll find one that fits perfectly in your space and décor. Dress up a corner with a pot of posies on a striking pedestal of twisting metal or a small round table with a rich inlay design. Need a spot to put a glass of water and a reading light by your bed but don’t want to be boxed in with a chest of drawers? Try a more feminine pedestal table that will give your room a lighter look. The more you look around your home the easier it is to find spots or things that could be bright and beautiful with the help of an accent table.

But to find one that is just right you have to narrow the field with a few decisions. First you will have to figure out the look you’re trying to achieve or complement. Is your décor more traditional or maybe even vintage? Then go with a table made of wood with a dark stain and carved details. Try a table made with glass or metal for a more contemporary look.

Second you need to decide what you need the table to do. Do you need a table alongside an armchair, perhaps you need something to showcase a plant, or maybe you want an easier way to serve tea to your guests. You might even need some small tables to use when you are entertaining that can easily be stored. Once you decide on your table’s use there is just one more step to finding perfection.

Third you have to look at the color and design, this is the fun part. Make a room pop with an emerald green chest; try a white pedestal table with hand painted flowers for some shabby chic appeal or go for a modern edge with a silver and black oval table. Add a touch of fantasy with a table supported by three griffin-like creatures. Once you find a table that speaks to you, your search is over.
So slide that last puzzle piece into place and take a deep breath of satisfaction. Your decorating days are over. Your rooms are refreshed, rejuvenated and finally complete with the addition of a few select accent tables.

Doesn’t it cost more to work with a decorator

2010-05-16T09:49:00.000-04:00

There is a perception among some consumers that they will spend more on their home if they work with a decorator, than if they did the work themselves. Here are some possible reasons why a client might feel that they are spending more with an interior decorator, than they would have on their own:

    •    Decorators look at the whole project all at once.   Most homeowners, either through time constraints, budget constraints, or lack of knowledge on what to buy or where to buy it, acquire their furnishings over a period of time. They never stop to add up all of the items that have gone into their rooms over the years.   Remember how your first sofa was a cast-off from your parents, then you added some IKEA tables, then you moved into your first house and upgraded the sofa, but kept the IKEA, then added a kitchen table and chairs, etc. Did you ever stop to add up all the money that you spent over time?

    •    Decorators give a budget estimate that includes every little detail that goes into a finished room, or home.   We include not only the furniture and rugs, but also the window coverings, the correct number of lamps, the art and accessories, the plants, the overhead lighting. Most homeowners plan their purchase of larger items, but forget about the ‘little things’, and dismiss those as ‘minor’ costs. However, those minor costs add up and when you see them all at once, it can be a revelation.

    •    Decorators work with a better quality of merchandise than many homeowners. That’s not meant as a put-down, it’s just that you don’t know what you don’t know. If all you see in the stores is low to mid-range quality and price, how could you possibly prepare yourself for the cost of something better?   A good decorator takes pride in her work, and wants to be sure that you are happy with it for years to come.   We source out better quality products that you may not find in many stores.
So the real question is, do you understand what you are getting from the decorator?    If you are honest with yourself, are you really spending more, or are you just doing it in a larger ‘chunk’ than you would on your own? Are you ready to pay for better-quality furniture, and to get help to be sure you purchase the right furnishings?    As with any purchase you will make, you should ensure that you know what you are getting for your money.

Can I Afford To Work With A Decorator?

2010-04-28T23:53:00.000-04:00

This is such a great question!     As your affluence increases, and your time decreases, you are bound to wonder if you could get help putting your home’s interiors together. And unless you grew up with an interior decorator on retainer to your family, it’s difficult to know what to expect from one.   If you agree with the following statements, then you can probably afford to work with an interior decorator:
    •    I’m ready to purchase better quality furnishings for my home.
    •    I’m already shopping at up-market stores, like Art Shoppe or Ethan Allen.
    •    I’ve recently done a mid- to high-end renovation of a kitchen or bathroom.
    •    I’m already paying for landscaping and/or house cleaning services.
    •    I drive a late-model luxury vehicle.
    •    I wear the latest fashions and shoes and (gasp!) I don’t always buy them on sale.
Some of my clients would argue that they don’t fit any of the above criteria, and yet they found a way to have an interior decorator involved in their projects. But we have to start somewhere, and these are all indicators that you’ve moved from ‘need’ to ‘want’ with your disposable income.   You have nothing to lose by making some calls and speaking to decorators about your project, to get some ballpark estimates.
Whether or not you choose to work with an interior decorator is a matter of priorities.   In my 15 years of design practice, I have discovered that the difference between those who hire a decorator, and those who don’t, isn’t their income or the value of their homes. I have had clients with very modest homes and incomes, who have made my services a priority, and others who have far larger homes and incomes, who have found my services ‘too expensive’ for their priorities.    So, when someone says they can’t ‘afford’ to work with a decorator, often they really mean that they choose not to make it a priority.   What works for you?

Color Confidence

2010-04-28T23:47:00.000-04:00

How can you use color to its best advantage when you’re considering updating your interior design scheme? Many of my clients ask me this question, so I’d like to share some simple “Color Confidence” steps with you that I think will be of help.

First, choose colors for larger areas first! Large areas in your room would include the walls, ceiling and floor. Once you’ve settled on colors for those areas, select fabric colors for upholstery pieces and window treatments, or begin by selecting the colors and pattern of an area rug.

Next, it’s important to consider limiting yourself to 2 or 3 colors, achieving variety and interest with shades, tints and intensities of those colors. And, of course, any color scheme can be extended by using neutral shades.

If you want your room to have a feeling of spaciousness, consider focusing on lighter colors. They will tend to reflect light better instead of absorbing it. And conversely, bright and strong colors will help you create a cozy feeling in especially large rooms.

If your rooms contain interesting architectural details, you might consider emphasizing these details with a strong accent color. Or, if architectural defects are present, then you’d want to select a neutral color that would blend with the walls, ceiling and floor.

And by all means, if this all sounds overwhelming, just give me a call and we’ll choose those colors together!

2010-04-23T22:08:00.000-04:00

Dining tables size

Dining tables come in many sizes. Be sure the dining furniture you choose is sized appropriately for the room. A bistro table set could be cute for a breakfast nook or a patio, but it tends to look strange in a large room. Before choosing a dining room table, measure your dining room. Remember that you'll need space around the table for walking and pulling out chairs. Try to leave at least 48 inches between the edge of the table and the wall or closest piece of furniture. Also, dining tables need to measure around 36 to 42 inches wide to accommodate food and place settings. Any wider and your dinner guests will find it difficult to carry on conversations with anyone across the table.

One common mistake people make in a smaller dining room is to buy a large dining table and push it against a wall to maximize the walking room on one side. This will actually make your dining room look smaller. Instead, choose a smaller, round dining table; traffic will be able to flow on all sides of the round table and your dining room will feel much larger.

Dining table capacity

The capacity of a dining table refers to how many people can be seated around it comfortably. If entertaining is kept among close friends and family, then a small table works just fine. Seating four or five people around a large dining room table isn't very inviting; instead of promoting conversation, it can feel impersonal and distant. If you are filling a large space with a large formal dining table, consider a drop leaf table with extra leaves, so you can add or subtract space as needed. As a general rule of thumb, choose a table that affords each diner at least 24 inches.

Dining table shape

The shape of a table has a direct effect on its size, capacity and style. Round tables are generally smaller, but they can be very large. Oblong and rectangular dining tables come in a wider range of sizes and tend to be more common. For a large room, choose a large, long dining table to create a dramatic setting. Select a rectangular dining table and create a clearly defined "head" of the table to distinguish the guest of honor on special occasions.

Round dining tables tend to encourage conversations because they let everyone see each other. These tables are great for creating a social atmosphere. You will need to be careful with round dining tables, however; a round table large enough to seat 12 people will be huge, and it probably won't fit in your dining room.

Small, square dining tables are perfect for small groups, and large square dining tables can be surprisingly accommodating. Square dinner tables, like round tables, are social and intimate. Conversations flow easily, and -- if the square table isn't too large and the corners aren't too sharp -- traffic will be able to move around the table with ease as well.

Dining table style

What tone do you want your dining room to set? For a room that reinforces the architecture of your home, from Georgian to Queen Anne to French Colonial, choose dining room furniture that reflects that style. Style is also where the material of your table plays a supporting role. If your home is sleek and modern, then an ornately carved table will look dated and out of place. If your molding includes richly colored woods and carved finials, then an aluminum table will clash and a straight-legged wood dining table will stand out.

Wood dining tables have always seemed a little more formal than metal and glass dining tables, but that doesn't have to be the case. Pine dining tables, along with most lightly stained woods, will have a fairly casual feel to them; on the other hand, darker woods, like cherry and mahogany, make wonderful formal dining tables.

Metal and glass dining tables, even though they're more modern than wood, can be just as formal as a dark mahogany ornate dining table in the right room. Dark metals lend themselves toward more reserved occasions, whereas shiny steel and aluminum evoke a casual, retro feel.

Dining table finish

There are several finish options for wood and metal dining tables. Wooden dining tables can be finished with a clear, light finish to enhance the natural color and grain of the wood, or they can be finished to look like other, rarer woods.

Common wood finish colors include: Walnut: a chocolate brown color Mahogany: a medium brown to deep brown and dark red Cherry: a light brown to dark reddish brown Oak: a greyish brown if it is white oak or a reddish cast if it is red oak Pine: a light yellow color.

If you'd like to experiment with color, pick out a wood dining table that you can paint to your exact specifications. For a contemporary, masculine dining table, consider metallic options like a powder-coated black dining table or choose between aluminum and stainless steel.

Dining table care

As you are choosing your table, consider the care you're willing to put into it. Many wood dining tables are durable and may need only the occasional application of furniture polish; softer woods may be more susceptible to scratches and could benefit from the use of a tablecloth. Glass dining tables won't scratch or stain easily, and any window cleaner can be used to clean fingerprints from glass dining tables.

Wood dining tables often have removable legs or leaves. When cleaning or polishing your table, check the legs for any wobble. If you have a drop leaf table, pull out the leaves from storage once in a while and give them a polish. Place them in your table and check them regularly to see if they have warped. Regular checking can save you from aggravation later. Rotate the different leaves, so they will have even wear and exposure to light.

What’s Hot – What’s Not - for 2010!

2010-04-23T21:59:00.000-04:00

Isn’t it great fun to learn a bit about what’s new in decorating? Each year new color and design trends abound, and most of my clients are curious as to where these new ideas actually originate. Did you know that most of our home furnishing design trends actually follow design trends in the woman’s fashion industry? So what you see walking down the red carpet today, might actually be translated into one of the hottest design trends of tomorrow!

SIMPLE, CLEAN LINES ABOUND!

Typically, we see a bit more of a traditional design style when we talk about a transitional design. Today, this transitional design style tends to have a more modern contemporary influence rather than traditional. Look for cleaner, straighter lines in upholstered and occasional furniture style. We also see a trend to smaller scaled furniture styles. And many of today’s new occasional tables tend to feature straight rather than curved lines.

TEXTURE CONTINUES TO TAKE CENTER STAGE!

Whether you chose to display your love of texture in your upholstery – leather, ultra suede, or micro fiber, or in your wall art, with dramatic wrought iron designs, texture continues to add drama to any décor. Area rugs in various styles, shapes and designs, help add visual interest to hard-wood or tile floors. And draperies deliciously designed with silks, and embroidered patterns continue to be all the rage.

DETAILS!

Brass or silver toned nail head trim instantly adds drama when outlining the wood frames of many of today’s furniture pieces. Appliqués, embossing, leather piping, beaded fringe, and dramatic tassels and tiebacks continue their everlasting popularity.

PAISLEY PRINTS PIZZAZZ!

We’ve seen years when the trends have gone from large dramatic florals, to small geometric designs. One of the hottest print styles for the coming years will be paisley designs. This beautifully ornate pattern was commonly used for 19th century shawls manufactured in the town of Paisley, Scotland. And the Scots got the idea from Kashmir shawls made in India around the 1800’s. Filled with a myriad of gorgeous colors, paisley designs add excitement and pizzaz to any décor.

GREY – THE NEW BEIGE!

When it comes to color trends, we’ll be seeing a more glamorous and dramatic color palette this year. Grey is definitely the new beige, and purple continues to be a hot accent color!

LUSCIOUS LAYERS!

Designers have layered window treatment for centuries. And, now that same luxurious feel is moving from windows to floors! Area rugs abound in colors, shapes, styles and textures. And one of the hottest trends today is to layer your floor –not with just one area rug – but two or three! Area rugs placed over carpeting not only adds instantaneous visual interest, but can help give a tired carpet a fresh new look!

What about the Sidelights?

2010-04-05T19:28:00.000-04:00

Next up are sidelights. Now not every home has sidelight but for those that do, choosing the right sidelight window treatment can really make a difference as it can make the entry way in your home really beautiful and functional. Sidelight shades need to be available in narrow widths, that is why there aren’t more choices. That said, there are slightly more choices for sidelights than skylights including, woven wood shades (also known as bamboo shades), cellular shades and sheer shades. Woven woods come in a huge variety of materials and weaves.

The material choices include bamboo, grasses, rope, reeds, matchsticks, and wood planks. These materials are often woven together in different combinations and range in appearance from casual to elegant but all with a bent towards a more natural-look. Woven woods can also be purchased with optional liners for additional room-darkening and privacy. Sheer shades are a versatile and elegant choice for sidelights. They are versatile because they are like two shades in one combining the functionality of a blind with the soft light filtering of shades. Sheer shades for sidelights have horizontal blinds (fabric vanes) with two sheer fabric facings over the fabric vanes. When the vanes are open the sheer fabric offers soft light-filtering and when closed offer privacy and light dimming.

Cellular shades, as mentioned before, are attractive, come in a wide variety of colors and offer good insulation which is important for almost any home. For the sheer variety of fabric and other material combinations, I would recommend looking into woven woods but, they may not compliment every décor, whereas, cellular shades and sheer shades have more universal appeal.

To Cover the Skylights or Not

2010-04-05T19:24:00.000-04:00

Starting with skylights, here are some window treatments options for you to consider. First, I would highly recommend cellular shades. You probably already know, but cell shades add insulation to your window. They come in single, double and triple cell, the latter offering the greatest amount of insulation. That said, cell shades are attractive and come in a wide variety of colors to compliment almost any décor. Also, cell shades can be purchased with a motorized function which is especially useful for skylights which are often out of reach.

If you want a slightly less expensive option consider pleated shades which essentially look the same as cell shades but do not have the excellent insulating properties. Both cellular and pleated shades come in a variety of light-filtering options from sheer to room darkening so you can choose how much light you want to be filtered. Lastly, both of these shades come specially designed to work with skylights and come with side tracks that hold the shade in place but allow it to open and close.

Think Big, Not Small

2010-04-05T19:21:00.000-04:00

Decorating a small room? While these spaces can be a bit challenging, here are a few ideas that you might find beneficial in helping your small space take on a much larger look!

Furniture: Smaller scale pieces are a must. Opt for a loveseat paired with two small swivel chairs, instead of a large sofa and loveseat combination.
You’ll also want to look for pieces that feature curved arms and backs. Curved pieces work very well in small spaces because they tend to help the eye move easily from one piece to another. When adding wood pieces into a small space, try to incorporate pieces that have open bases, rather than wood pieces that are solid to the floor. By adding open based accent pieces you are allowing for more visual movement in your room.

Mirrors definitely provide a spacious feeling to any small space, as well as a fashionable touch. But, if you’re adding mirrors to a small dining room, be careful to not place them at eye level when seated. Most of us don’t enjoy watching ourselves, or our guests eat! If you wish to mirror an entire wall, consider the changes it will crate in your room’s visual dimensions. It is usually best to mirror a wider wall to avoid creating a tunneled feeling.

Lighting is an effective tool for any small room. Track lighting or wall lights definitely help to brighten walls. Adding “up” lights in corners will also create a more spacious feeling in your small room.

Color schemes for small spaces can vary dramatically. If your small room features a tremendous amount of natural light, then you might have a bit more latitude in your color selections. Even darker, bolder shades work in small spaces, when natural light is abundant. However, if your small room features limited natural light, then a brighter, lighter color palette is definitely preferred.

Look to Today's Fashion for Tomorrow's Design Trends

2010-03-31T21:46:00.000-04:00

It's always fun to learn a bit about what's new in decorating. Each year new color and design trends abound, and you may be curious about where these new ideas originate. Did you know that most of our home furnishing design trends actually follow design trends in the women's fashion industry? So what you see walking down the red carpet today might actually be translated into one of the hottest design trends tomorrow.

In the past, when we labeled a room as "transitional"--the most popular style, which is a blend of traditional and modern--it tended to lean a little more toward traditional. But today, transitional design styles seem to have a more modern, contemporary influence. Look for cleaner, straighter lines in upholstered furniture styles, as well as pared-down scaling. Many of today's new occasional tables also feature straight rather than curved lines.

Whether you choose to display your love of texture in your upholstery--with chenille, leather, ultra-suede or microfiber--or in your wall art--with dramatic wrought-iron or canvas designs for example--texture continues to add drama to any décor.
Area rugs in various styles, shapes and designs can help add visual interest to hardwood or tile floors. And window-framing draperies designed with silks, linens and embroidered patterns continue to be all the rage.

Bronze or brushed nickel nail-head accents instantly add drama when outlining the wood or upholstery frames of many of today's furniture pieces. Appliqués, embossing, leather piping, beaded fringe, and dramatic tassels and tiebacks continue in their popularity.

We've seen years when the trends have gone from large dramatic florals to small geometric designs. One of the hottest print trends this year is paisley. This beautifully ornate pattern was commonly used for 19th century shawls manufactured in the town of Paisley, Scotland. The Scots were inspired by Kashmir shawls made in India during the 1800s. Filled with a myriad of gorgeous colors, paisley designs add excitement and pizzazz to any room.

When it comes to color trends, we'll be seeing a more glamorous and dramatic color palette this year. Gray, in all its manifestations, is the hottest neutral, and purple continues to be a hot accent color.
Designers have layered window treatment for centuries. And now that same luxurious feel is moving from windows to floors.

Area rugs abound in colors, shapes, styles and textures. One of the hottest trends today is to layer your floor--not with just one rug--but two or three! In addition, heavy area rugs placed over carpeting can add instant visual interest, as well as helping to give a tired carpet a fresh new look!

Ten Tips For A Change

2010-03-29T20:19:00.000-04:00

1. Paint your ceiling. Add a beautiful pale color to your ceiling to add new life to a room.

2. Add a block of color to a wall rather than a full accent wall. Choose a bold color and paint a large rectangle, leaving a border of about 6”-9” on all four sides. Layer it with more color by adding art or photography for a bold and colorful effect.

3. Change your flooring by investing in a new, colorful rug. Use colors from that rug as accents in the space.

4. Look at the upholstered pieces in your space and consider reupholstering them to add years to your furnishings. Schumacher has some great patterns and colors that I’ve designed for them. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns and colors that can add a level of sophistication.

5. Change your lampshades. Lampshades get worn out quickly and adding new ones with fabric, paint, and patterns can brighten up your space.

6. Add dimmers everywhere you can! Color is entirely related to light. Appropriate and ambient lighting can help to set the mood and can be more flattering for both people and color in your space.

7. Create a new accessories story in your home, to give a whole new expression and life to your room. Regroup items you have already by color and buy new colorful accessories to add to the room over time.8. Paint tired kitchen cabinets in a shiny bright color, or shiny bright white. Or paint the inset panel of framed cabinet doors.

9. Make a bold and dramatic statement with your children’s artwork. Use eight pieces of artwork—all on the same size paper—and frame in all the same frames. Hang in two rows of four, spaced one-inch apart.

10. Shop at Home! We all have hidden treasures in our homes, so take a look at the forgotten furniture and lamps in your home. Spray paint or lacquer it with shiny bright color to make it fresh and new. See how you can refashion what you already have.

Think Big

2010-03-29T20:16:00.000-04:00

Think Big –

Decorating a small room? While these spaces can be a bit challenging, here are a few ideas that you might find beneficial in helping your small space take on a much larger look!

Furniture: Smaller scale pieces are a must. Opt for a loveseat paired with two small swivel chairs, instead of a large sofa and loveseat combination.
You’ll also want to look for pieces that feature curved arms and backs. Curved pieces work very well in small spaces because they tend to help the eye move easily from one piece to another. When adding wood pieces into a small space, try to incorporate pieces that have open bases, rather than wood pieces that are solid to the floor. By adding open based accent pieces you are allowing for more visual movement in your room.

Mirrors definitely provide a spacious feeling to any small space, as well as a fashionable touch. But, if you’re adding mirrors to a small dining room, be careful to not place them at eye level when seated. Most of us don’t enjoy watching ourselves, or our guests eat! If you wish to mirror an entire wall, consider the changes it will crate in your room’s visual dimensions. It is usually best to mirror a wider wall to avoid creating a tunneled feeling.

Lighting is an effective tool for any small room. Track lighting or wall lights definitely help to brighten walls. Adding “up” lights in corners will also create a more spacious feeling in your small room.

Color schemes for small spaces can vary dramatically. If your small room features a tremendous amount of natural light, then you might have a bit more latitude in your color selections. Even darker, bolder shades work in small spaces, when natural light is abundant. However, if your small room features limited natural light, then a brighter, lighter color palette is definitely preferred.

Selling Your Home? Tips For Getting Your Home “Sale-Ready”

2010-03-29T20:13:00.000-04:00

Selling Your Home? Tips For Getting Your Home “Sale-Ready”

1.    Avoid placing large pieces of furniture across the corner of a room. Rather, place large pieces on an angle. Why? Your room will appear to have move visual movement. This will give a potential buyer the idea that your room might be a bit larger and easier to work with for their own furniture placement.

2.    If your home features a vaulted wall, place large pieces of furniture close to the highest wall. This calls attention to the wall’s architectural interest, and creates balance in your room.

3.    If your home features smaller rooms, remember less is more. An under-furnished room is preferable to an over-furnished room.

4.    Change your lampshades. This “quick fix” can give any room an up- dated appearance – especially if you select dramatic black or textured shades.

5.    To make a smaller room to seem more expansive, consider purchasing a large wall mirror. Mirrors definitely give the illusion of more space. Just be sure to take special care in placing your mirror. You want to be sure that what it reflects is a pleasing sight!

6.    Add some texture! Throws, tasseled pillows, even an inexpensive area rug can create a warmer, cozier feel in any room.

7.    Let there be light! Be sure your window treatments are in the “open” position, flooding as much light as possible into each and every room in your home.

8.    Add some permanent florals and greenery. Don’t go overboard, but adding a silk tree in a bare corner, or a floral arrangement on a dining room table adds lots of ambiance to any room.
9.    Go crazy with color... or not! When selling a home, neutral shades are always the best. It’s difficult for a buyer to see beyond the colors they see when they enter a room. The colors should work harmonious from one space to the next.

10. Declutter your space. Your cherished mementos, while precious to you, might actually create a barrier in the mind of a buyer. Think about simple accessory plans with minimal clutter. Perhaps a display of leather bound books paired with small greenery, and a small picture on an easel.

What’s UP?? Why your ceilings, of course!

2010-03-14T20:47:00.000-04:00

Is there a room in your home that desperately needs a new look – or merely needs something special to make it come alive? Well, just look up! That’s right! Your ceiling offers many interesting design possibilities.

If you have a very small room and want to make it appear airy and larger, you may want to cover the walls and the ceiling in the same light color. If you desire a cozy, warm look try darker, more intense colors. Whether you’re aware of it or not, a ceiling does affect us. While a soaring ceiling in a spacious room raises our spirits, in a small room it can be disconcerting. In the matter of raising or lowering ceilings, color is your surest ally. Ceilings will seem higher if they are lighter in tone than the walls; lower if they are darker.

Decorating a ceiling can be a super solution in many rooms in your home. For example, if decorating a child’s room on a budget, perhaps wallpapering the ceiling with billowing clouds, friendly animals or maybe even a lively floral print might do just the trick.

No matter which method you choose, color, texture, fabric or wallcovering can all add a new dimension to your ceiling and give your room a special charm of its own.

Selling Your Home

2010-03-14T20:44:00.000-04:00

Ten Tips

1.    Avoid placing large pieces of furniture across the corner of a room. Rather, place large pieces on an angle. Why? Your room will appear to have move visual movement. This will give a potential buyer the idea that your room might be a bit larger and easier to work with for their own furniture placement.

2.    If your home features a vaulted wall, place large pieces of furniture close to the highest wall. This calls attention to the wall’s architectural interest, and creates balance in your room.

3.    If your home features smaller rooms, remember less is more. An under-furnished room is preferable to an over-furnished room.

4.    Change your lampshades. This “quick fix” can give any room an up- dated appearance – especially if you select dramatic black or textured shades.

5.    To make a smaller room to seem more expansive, consider purchasing a large wall mirror. Mirrors definitely give the illusion of more space. Just be sure to take special care in placing your mirror. You want to be sure that what it reflects is a pleasing sight!

6.    Add some texture! Throws, tasseled pillows, even an inexpensive area rug can create a warmer, cozier feel in any room.

7.    Let there be light! Be sure your window treatments are in the “open” position, flooding as much light as possible into each and every room in your home.

8.    Add some permanent florals and greenery. Don’t go overboard, but adding a silk tree in a bare corner, or a floral arrangement on a dining room table adds lots of ambiance to any room.
9.    Go crazy with color... or not! When selling a home, neutral shades are always the best. It’s difficult for a buyer to see beyond the colors they see when they enter a room. The colors should work harmonious from one space to the next.

10. Declutter your space. Your cherished mementos, while precious to you, might actually create a barrier in the mind of a buyer. Think about simple accessory plans with minimal clutter. Perhaps a display of leather bound books paired with small greenery, and a small picture on an easel.

MerchantCircle | Blog Entry

2010-02-28T08:12:00.000-05:00

MerchantCircle | Blog Entry

Reiventing the Color Wheel - MORE Magazine

2010-02-26T13:47:00.000-05:00

Reiventing the Color Wheel - MORE Magazine

We Dazzled The Ladies With Color

2010-02-23T09:39:00.000-05:00

More than 250 ladies waited in line to attend Cashman's Hardware 1st Annual "Ladies Night" Seminars. The highlight of the evening was the Color and Decorating Seminar given by Barbara D. Pettinella of Decorating Den Interiors. Benjamin Moore, the innovative leader in new paint technologies asked Barbara D. Pettinella, Decorating Den Interiors in Hockessin, Delaware if she would represent them at a "Ladies Night" Paint and Color Seminar at Cashman's Hardware in East Berlin, Pennsylvania.

The evening was a resounding success! There were over 800 invitations sent out to the female customers of Cashmans Hardware. It was also advertised in the local papers. The evening began at 7:00pm and ran to 9:00pm. The ladies were lined up at 6:00 past the end of the building. The doors opened promptly at 7:00pm and the ladies poured into the hardware store. The Cashman's had set up two large areas with numerous trades people. The largest area by far was the Color Design Area that Barbara Pettinella had her exhibit in. There was standing room only for her Color Presentation. Also attending and helping was Maryann Fisher, the local Decorating Den Interiors owner. Barbara and Steven Pettinella talked about how to pull color through a space, showed beautiful wallpapers from York Wallcovering and showed how to use fabric, paint and wallcoverings. The audience was mesmerized and asked many questions.

Each person who attending their seminar received a packet of information about Decorating Den and York Wallcoverings and numerous Paint Decks from Benjamin Moore. The is the first of many Color Seminars that Benjamin Moore has asked Barbara Pettinella of Decorating Den Interiors in Hockessin, Delaware to present.

Barbara Pettinella - Hockessin - Interior Designer - Biznik

2010-02-13T19:36:00.000-05:00

Barbara Pettinella - Hockessin - Interior Designer - Biznik

Lullabyland

2010-02-08T08:34:00.000-05:00

If you are expecting the stork to pay a visit to your family in the near future, chances are you are thinking of the perfect nursery for your new baby.

Perhaps you are looking for something unique - something that isn't found in every baby store. When you use your imagination, the creative possibilities are endless. From custom quilts to hand-painted wall murals, you can dream up some fun and exciting possibilities for your little one's room that can last well beyond infancy.

First, you'll want to come up with a theme. If you know it's a boy and your family loves boating, that's a great theme. For a girl whose family loves animals, try a puppy, kitten, or jungle motif. What do you do if you are waiting to be surprised by your bundle of joy's gender? How about a circus theme- a big- top tent on the ceiling with circus characters on the walls.

You will be amazed at the designer fabrics available for customizing your baby's room. It's important to know that there are hundreds of fabrics that interior decorators offer which you won't see in retail stores.
If you are hoping to achieve unique walls, but don't wish to contract an artist for an elaborate wall mural, you may find just what you're looking for among the designer wall coverings. From hot air balloons to teddy bears, crayons, to cats and dogs, the options are endless. And the new wall adhesives are great ideas, too. These wonderful pieces of children's art stick to the wall without damaging the paint or wall-covering surface, so they peel up neatly years later.

When selecting colors for the nursery, it's so easy to be tempted by those dreamy, gentle pastels. Remember, however, that babies love black and white, as well as bright primary colors. Of course, you will be spending many hours around the clock in that nursery, so be certain that you, as well as the baby, enjoy the outcome of the room.

Tuscan Style, is this You?

2010-02-05T23:07:00.001-05:00

The sun is slowly sinking behind the Tuscan hills. The sky is alive with a warm, rosy-red glow. Nothing could be more relaxing than imagining yourself enjoying This view.

If you would like to bring the peaceful, uplifting Italian Tuscan countryside into your home, read on:

To create a uniquely Italian look, the following aspects need to be considered: use of a bold design and original color scheme, attention to detail, demand for quality and a desire for creative and dramatic accents. Italian decorating expresses the individuality of the owner. Obviously, Tuscan home decorating can involve many variables. You can create an ambiance, your individual ambiance by selecting from a large variety of uniquely Tuscan décor accessories.
Bring this old world flavor into your room with bold simplicity. You will achieve this by incorporating textural contrast and earthly colors.

Consider color first when creating your look. The Tuscan people felt a connection to nature, from the landscape to agriculture, so choose from these rich, earthy tones: golden olive oil, terracotta, luscious olive green, deep browns, rich burgundy, Mediterranean blues, burnt orange and golden yellow. These colors may be made to look weathered or muted to create an attractive, timeless beauty.

One of the main features of Tuscan—Italian décor is the abundant use of texture. Add texture to your walls by combining your paint with texture additives. Wall texturing ideas include Venetian hand plastering, suede or granite texture paints or sponge style painting techniques. These wall applications will give your room that old world touch.

If you are planning a entire room makeover, you should consider stone tiles or hardwood floors for a complete Tuscan decor look. But you may achieve the Italian theme, with the incorporation of a few great furniture choices and home accessory pieces. Consider silks and linen draperies. Some beautiful embroidered sheers will add a light and airy feel.
Solid hardwood furniture with textile or leather coverings are the trademark of an authentic Tuscan home. Consider traditional, very comfortable style furnishings to pull off your Tuscan feel. Strive for quality, uniqueness and personal comfort.

Much of the décor used in these traditional homes were from products that were easily accessible in the region. With the help of local skilled artisans, many unique works were created. The most popular materials used were tapestry textiles, tile, wrought iron, ceramic, pottery, marble and hard woods. When selecting your Tuscan decorations, start with a focus piece and work out from there.

I would recommend that you select an Italian-Tuscan themed tapestry. A wall tapestry will add texture, warmth and color. Tapestries are great for any room in your home—whatever the theme. Select some of the colors in your tapestry to use as accent colors throughout your room.

Tuscan wrought iron is an important feature for your Italian décor. Start by selecting a decorative rod for your tapestry. Now that you have placed your tapestry above the sofa or fireplace mantel, you may now choose accessories to complete the entire wall. Tuscan wrought iron wall grilles make very attractive accents with a tapestry. The iron gives the sturdy, but simple Italian style and the tapestry softens the look for an inviting, comfortable feel.

As you continue to add pieces to your room, remember to mix and match textures, styles, colors, and shapes to create YOUR Tuscan room. Other trendy wall décor that will bring your room to life may include a metal wall, mantel shelf. A newer, emerging trend in Tuscan wall décor are metal wall pockets and candle wall sconces. What makes the accessories work for you, is having unique details and character, with an old world, aged finish.

One other interesting idea for your wall would be a wall clock. Wall clocks have become a must have, functional home décor piece that accessorizes any style home décor. Look for a clock of metal or a Tuscan style, hardwood frame. There are many beautiful examples available.

Small, finishing touch accents may now be added. Give attention to every detail by adding your own personal touches, incorporate such pieces as a grape accented floral wreath or garland, word wall art and framed Tuscan wall art or framed, inspirational verse art.

Your casual, Tuscan themed entertaining area calls for touches of décor featuring wine: wine and grape wall art, metal wine bottle holders and wine word art. Make it a fun and inviting place to entertain with unique, quality pieces that will help you project an authentic Tuscan-Italian theme perfectly. Add the wine, glasses, Napkins etc for the complete look.
The last areas to consider, are your shelves, counter tops, mantels and table areas. Look for unique pottery pieces—vases and pitchers; chunky ceramic, marble or iron candlesticks; metal or ceramic containers; unique metal, wine bottle holders and large decorative chargers. Just remember, it’s all about texture and color.

Where to begin with a Nursery

2010-01-19T21:17:00.000-05:00

Have Fun With Colors

While the most popular colors for nurseries are gentle pastels like mint green, sky blue, pinks and creamy yellows, psychologists say children like -and thrive- around primary colors.

First Things First

Make it easy for you! Consider selecting a room in your home that’s close to your master bedroom.

Pay attention to the direction your nursery faces. Sunlight streaming into your child’s room during most of the day -or even streetlights beaming into your nursery during the evening- might make sleeping a bit difficult.

Safety is a Must

· Be sure to child proof all locks and outlets.

· Anchor furniture, so you’re sure it won’t accidentally tip over.

· Avoid using space heaters.

· Check on “hand me down” products to be sure they haven’t been recalled and are in good, safe working order.

Create a Room Your Child Can “Grow Into”

Select furniture that will grow with your child. For instance, a baby armoire is a great idea for storing those precious little clothing items. And once your child ages, this same piece of furniture could easily be converted to a computer desk.

Furniture Arranging Is As Easy As 1 – 2 – 3

· Don’t place your crib close to a window, try an inside wall or angle instead.

· In the beginning, it’s wise to keep your room arrangements simple and functional for YOU!

· Select furnishings that are as maintenance free as possible.

· Remember, your baby will be growing by leaps and bounds! Don’t forget to look for furniture that will grow as your child grows.

· As in all decorating, start with the largest areas first – your walls and floor

· A rocking chair is a great addition to any nursery’s floor plan.

· Allow for plenty of light in the room. A ceiling light is not enough, so consider adding lamps at the bedside or on the walls.

Windows, Walls, And Floors – Oh My

Wonderful Windows! Break Away Tassels are a must on all alternative window products. Room darkening treatments topped with a fun, light hearted, thematic top treatment might just help insure a good night’s sleep for your newborn.

Whimsical Walls Have fun with wallcovering! A light-hearted border applied over neutral walls will give your nursery its own personality. When painting your walls be sure to use washable paint. Try adding a few cheerful pictures to continue your room’s theme.

Fabulous Flooring From braided area rugs to rugs featuring light hearted colorful patterns, this great and practical accent will not only help warm your nursery area, but will also add that whimsical touch.

Child's Play

2010-01-19T21:03:00.000-05:00

Decorating a child's room can be both fun and challenging. Whether you are planning for a new arrival or updating your child's room, thought and careful planning will make the project a success.

The design style and color scheme for this room should be simple and based on the child's preferences. Let him or her take part in choosing color and pattern. If your child wants a color you simply cannot live with, try to compromise with a shade variation you can accept.

Window treatments can be simple. For example, you could select pleated or cellular shades for privacy – wood blinds, shutters for your under treatment. Then have some fun with valance options. How about a wood cornice? Cornices can be wallpapered with a fantastically whimsical border, or covered with a fabric featuring with light hearted cartoon characters. A wood cornice also allows you the option of extra accessorizing space! What a great place to display a teddy bear, doll, or race car collection! And be sure to have fun with your drapery "rods" when designing a child's window treatment. Cleverly designed valances can be hung on hockey sticks, baseball bats, or golf clubs.

With careful planning, all your ideas can work together to create a special place where your child can learn and grow.

Throw On the Throw Pillows

2010-01-09T19:27:00.000-05:00

Along with pillows, throws can also be incorporated into your living room accessories and instantly add a new look to the living room. Casually drape one over the sofa in a color that coordinates with the rest of the room, and immediately you will find your eyes drawn to it. An old soft quilt thrown over a rocking chair immediately adds charm and interest to the area.

If you have any sewing skills, consider buying new blankets to fit your color scheme and decor style, or use soft blankets that you love but you no longer use on your bed. Applique simple shapes to complement your decor and color scheme onto the blanket with a zigzag or blanket stitch. Create or buy a binding to match the applique, attach it, and you have a custom made throw for your room. You could use the same applique fabric to make matching pillows to go along with it. This is a great way to add color and charm to your living room accessories without adding great cost.

What About the Fireplace Accessories

2010-01-09T19:23:00.000-05:00

Fireplace accessories can be fun to shop for at estate sales. Even if you have a gas fireplace, a stand of fireplace accessories or a wind ballast hanging on the wall will add to the ambiance of the fireplace and the addition of these to your living room accessories will bring personality to this focal point. If shopping at auctions, don't look for fireplace sets. Many interesting hand forged items are available and create a source of interest and history.

Fireplaces and hearths can be framed with interesting tiles to add color and texture. In the summer, large green potted plants placed on each side of the fireplace, or a large floral arrangement on the hearth will bring the look of the outside indoors. In the winter, a basket of scented pine cones is a fun addition to the hearth, with the added advantage of bringing a wonderful aroma to the area. Plants are a great addition to your living room accessories, especially if you also coordinate the pots and containers to match the style and color of your room.

Don't Overlook Your Fireplace Mantel

2010-01-09T19:20:00.001-05:00

The Mantle is a great focal point

Along with the fireplace, use your mantle to make a design statement. Mantles make great places to add living room accessories for creative displays of candles, small collections, clocks and sculptures.

When placing displays on the mantle, the concept of balance should be kept in mind. There are two types of balance:

Symmetrical
Asymmetrical

Symmetrical Balance

Symmetrical Balance is achieved by arranging objects equally from the center of a focal point, such as a pair of candlesticks on each side of a clock. This is a formal way of arranging items and is an affect that is easy to achieve.

Asymmetrical Balance

Asymmetrical Balance is achieved the arranging of items that are not identical in such a way as to give the impression that their visual weight is balanced. An example would be a piece of sculpture on one end of the mantle, and two small photos on the other end.

Achieving asymmetrical balance can be likened to putting small children on a seesaw. The older heavier child would be seated at the edge on one end of the seesaw and the two smaller children are placed on the other end to achieve the correct balance.

Asymmetrical balance takes more thought and creativity, but it is much more fun to experiment with, and more satisfying to view. Keep trying different combinations of your living room accessories, and eventually your eye will see the effect you are trying to achieve. Keep an eye out as you look at decorating books and magazines and you will find many instances of asymmetrical balance.

This little lesson in balance doesn't apply only to mantles. I'm sure you'll find plenty of surfaces to try out your new skill throughout the home.