Modern And Warm Mansion Interior Inspiring Serenity in Australia
What a wonderful atmosphere managed to create Georgia Ezra, the head of G. A.B. B. E. studio! Take a look at the exquisite Brighton Escape house in Australia and let the positive energy flood your senses! We really like this stunning interior space because it is the result of a wonderful play of shapes (without being too eccentric) and it also inspires a warm feeling of belonging in a place that evokes serenity. Contemporary lines, beautiful curves and impeccable finishings – this is what the Brighton Escape house is made of.
The interior captures the tranquility of the natural environment, making the inhabitant feel like tasting the sweet escape of freedom. The courtyard has corners sprinkled with zen pebbles and a green emerald grass field surrounds the house. “The space was treated from its genesis, with the same respect for design as a museum. Carving of ceiling, walls and floor not only creates sculptural partitions throughout the residence, but with the spirit of a rock pool, provides channels to flow through and delineates ample space in which to dwell together.” The result is a harmonic composition, that seems to evolve together with its inhabitants.
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5 CommentsTop 10 Most Talked About Interior Design Trends for 2013
We are looking forward to fascinating interior design projects in 2013 and by the looks of things, our expectations will be met. Even though we can not anticipate how most of the projects will look, we ran across some interesting trends for this year, which we would like to share further. Here are the top 10 most talked about key tendencies in interior design for 2013:
#1. A New Relationship Between Men and Interior Design
Society is changing and its “movements” have collateral effects on all aspects of life as we know it. In developed countries, men are known to spend a lot more time at home than in the past, helping out with children and housework, as a result of the proclaimed men-women equality. In 2013, interior design will thus begin to mirror male preferences like never before.
Sober furniture details, less flashy colors and functionality over “cuteness” are just some of the features expected in a home with male dominance. If you think about it- strictly from an aesthetic point of view- this situation can create a great visual balance, one that will make both partners feel at ease in their own crib.
#2. Group Dynamics
Men being more involved in interior design is not the only social trend for this year. Another interesting shift will be made from personal tastes to group tastes and from a single designer to interior design teams. Efficiency will go sky-high, as project tasks will be well managed by more than one person.
For example, when it comes to designing a room, one team member could do the planning, another could take care of the lighting effects and the third designer could take on the finishing touches. Having more people dealing with a project is a good way to share responsibilities and speed up the work process for the client.
#3. DIY projects
Desire for self expression is more and more obvious in the houses of people everywhere. We want to have furniture and decorations that mean something, that make us smile and that ultimately make the place feel like home. Re-purposing various objects and materials is now both a passion and a form of art.
DIY projects are slowly starting to gain power in the process of interior design, whether we are talking about old chairs being revamped or new candle supports being created. Creativity is once again taken to the next level and the home owner is more than just an innocent bystander- he is now in complete control of the project’s outcome.
#4. Texture and Touch
If people did not pay much attention in the past to how a furniture object feels when touching its surface, this is probably due to the fact that functionality used to be the main sought after characteristic in a household item. Now things are much different. People are in search for “touchable” textures, which inspire warmth and comfort as a way to engage and experience a proper home atmosphere. Suede and wood are two of the materials which will define the interior design world in 2013. Variety of texture will also be a key factor in arranging spaces.
#5. Embroidery and knitting
It’s a shame we did not learn everything our grandmothers thought us; if we did, our homes would probably look a lot more cheerful right now. Nevertheless, embroidery and knitting is a major trend for 2013. From colorful carpets with thousands of knots to various storage baskets and poof covers, handmade is back and appears it will be here for a while.
The modern twist of these items produced by hand gives them a particular charm, one that can not be obtained from any industrially produced household decoration. Here are some thoughts on knitting and crocheting from a post we published on Freshome a while back.
#6. Stripes, stripes, stripes
In 2013 social spaces will likely turn to design dynamics, in order to inspire vibrant living and energy. One of the most simple ways to achieve this effect is by employing stripes in an elegant manner. Carpets, wallpapers, upholstery, graphic art- each of these elements can wear the distinct feature of movement as long as they are defined by… stripes.
Bold red and black&white patterns are the highlight of the design themes again, only this time associated with minimalist decor complements. The idea is to make things stand out, without compromising in elegance or visual harmony.
#7. Floral patterns with a white background
Floral patterns are also back in style, only this year they come with a twist: a white background. Ensuring a very romantic touch and giving the feeling of a perpetual holiday, these stylish additions make a strong statement in a room. You can go for a variety of colors, as long as the overall result is appealing. Try new fabric covers, graphic art, wall paintings and wallpapers- the effect will be pretty strong.
#8. African influences
More and more modern villas are starting to showcase unique design themes and African influences are particularly considered dynamic and “exotic”. In 2013, African influences are said to be a major trend, bringing warm colors and animal skin imitations back into the eclectic interiors of most fashion enthusiasts. In luxury holiday villas across the globe you will likely observe wooden furniture elements decorated with carvings or wrought iron, sculptures and handmade decorations, all defined by the African style.
#9. Hand sketching and wall writing
We featured a post on Freshome a while back with some ideas on how to bring letters into your home. Hand sketching and wall writing will be more and more popular this year, as graphic artists will start collaborating with interior designers in creating original wall imprints. Imagine your favorite message elegantly written in the hallway or various letters adorning the ceiling. Here is a nice example below:
#10. Green walls, garden rooftops
Green living will be a key factor in design and architecture this year. From mobile plant panels to framed plant screens with lighting effects, this idea can bring a fresh touch to any apartment or public space. This approach is not only healthy, but also original and elegant. The advantages of having such a green wall? Air cleaning, humidification, evaporation of the air and appreciations from visitors. And here are 30 incredible garden rooftop ideas for further inspiration.
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Contemporary Ranch in Texas Showcasing a Precious Interior
Michael Malone Architects, a studio design from Dallas, Texas has recently defined a gorgeous residential project, aiming to bring together a sophisticated design style and a stunning green site, creating a particular spot that induces a strong feeling of leisure and recreation. The Raven Lake Ranch is a modern ranch, with sub-urbanesque details, neat, elegant and last, but not least, spacious. The project spreads over 2,700 square foot, being surrounded by a private emerald-like garden, offering an interesting view over the maze of trees. The clients were really satisfied with the work, pointing on the strong connection with the nature: “It’s as close as you can get to living outdoors and being sheltered”.
Simple from the outside, but extremely glamorous on the inside, the Raven Lake Ranch is fascinating in every single way. By restoring classic design and adding a glimpse of contemporary to it, the interior becomes significantly modern and somehow, more functional. Neutral tones populate the living and impressing floor to ceiling windows let the light and nature “flood” the house. The ceilings are a little bit higher than what we are used to, emphasising the house’s precious look. Rich and opulent chandeliers embellish the living room, while candles are used for a more romantic décor.
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10 Budget Friendly Tricks Interior Designers Use to Create Luxurious Looking Spaces
Dotted throughout the United States are master planned communities made up of homes that are identical to each other. As each home resembles the one next to it, it becomes more desirable to have an interior that is unique and offers a perception of affluence. We all want to have our homes look like that of high end professionally decorated mansions, but often lack the funds to achieve it. Living in a space that looks expensive and is easy on the budget does not have to be out of reach. Anyone can have dapper dwellings with a few careful considerations.
1. Crown Molding
A space that lacks crown molding tends to look average. The lack of detailing tying the walls and ceiling together gives a space an unfinished cheapened look. For very little money, crown molding applied to the walls provides richness to the space. When picking out molding opt for a wide trim for more impact. In fact the wider the trim the more expensive the room can look.
2. Paint
The toughest decision anytime you decorate can be what color to paint a space. Opting for either a crisp white or high pigment paint in a neutral hue will lend an air of sophistication and affluence to the room. Neutral walls allow for the rotation of accent colors seasonally if desired. Another easy trick that really adds that lux finish to a home is to paint interior doors black. It will instantly give the space an expensive vibe; just be sure to tie the doors to the rest of the décor with other uses of black accessories.
3. Pillows
Throw pillows are always a fabulous accessory for your sofa, loveseat or oversized chair. A collection of small store bought pillows appears to be trying too hard and shouts unoriginal and cheap. First, they are not quite big enough to be impactful and are too small to be of any real benefit. Secondly, if the goal is to look luxurious, pillows that any home can have defeats that idea. So ignore the 12-18 inch pillows that you can pick up at the local home store. Opt instead for the larger 22-inch pillow covers and stuff them with 24-inch inserts. The overstuffed pillows offer that luxurious feel you desire.
4. Window Treatments
The options for window treatments are endless and cross many price points. It is best to spend moderately on the best quality you can afford. Avoid flimsy curtains and ones that are unlined, these are two telltale signs of poor quality. Sure, the price might be nice, but you want your room to look elegant and expensive, right? Instead of buying them right off the rack at the local home store, find a selection at a specialty fabric store. Their experts can help you create window treatments with in your budget that will look like you spent a lot more for them. Once you have picked out your curtains, hang them as close to the ceiling as you can to draw your eye up and project the illusion of fullness. Curtains hung just above the window tend to look sparse.
5. Hardware Finishes
Most tract homes built come with very standard hardware finishes. They are generally cheap, in both cost and appearance. Builders use these bulk items, as they are more cost effective to use, but not always the best for a homeowner desiring a more custom look. Oddly enough, hardware is also not that expensive to replace with more personalized options. Change out the drawer pulls in the kitchen and replace them with more unique pieces. You can find them at any hardware store, specialty shop or even at a flea market. The goal is to locate ones you love and not mirror your next-door neighbors. You can change out the builder’s basic faucet for something more interesting as well. Any good plumbing shop can work with in your budget too.
6. Lighting
Just as with hardware, lighting is another one of those builder’s standard accessories that lack personality, character and style. Toss out nondescript chandeliers and ceiling fans; replace them with a unique designer look. There is no need to shop the high-end lighting stores, try scouring a flea market or second hand store for a budget friendly piece. A bargain found on a chandelier goes a long way toward creating that expensive designer inspired look. The right one may even have your friends talking. Add table lamps and floor lamps in each room, too. Lighting of any kind will also create an expensive look and feel.
7. Hardwood
While wall-to-wall carpet is soft and warm under foot, it is does not lend itself to a lavish look. Hardwood on the other hand provides that classic visual appeal. It seem like a budget buster, but it will last for years making the investment well worth it, especially if you compare it to replacing carpeting every few years. Hard wood comes in many types of wood and some are more luxurious than others are. Opt for a dark wood that will add richness to the space, similar to the idea of painting your interior doors black. You can layer a beautiful area rug on top of the wood flooring to anchor the room and tie design elements together.
8. Accessories
Gold often considered synonymous with wealth can actually appear rather tawdry. Gilded frames, gold baubles and brass lighting can be tacky when all used together. The color can be hard on the eyes while trying too hard to provide a luxurious look. Silver, chrome and brushed nickel are easier on the eyes and offer a truly polished look. Trade out those old gold frames for some new silver ones; replace that brass table lamp with a brushed nickel lamp and sell the gold at your next yard sale. Silver will also help to reflect light better than gold will, adding to the look you want to achieve.
9. Furniture
Furniture is usually the single largest investment made in a room, but not always an area that one can invest in heavily. Yet, spending on cheap poorly made furniture will cost more in the end. Instead, try shopping secondhand stores, consignment shops and estate sales for well-constructed pieces to be reupholstered. This will give you the opportunity to customize your look for a fraction of what a high-end designer piece would run you without sacrificing any desired quality.
10. Housekeeping
As Albert Hadley once said,” There’s no point in creating something beautiful for someone who is a slob….” He is right. The easiest and least expensive way to make a home look posh is to keep it cleaned. Dust and vacuum weekly, avoid clutter and your home will shine. All of the other touches will stand out and be noticeable. Isn’t that the whole point of a designer like home?
So you can see it does not take a lot to achieve an expensive look. Just follow these tips and tricks and you too can have a great looking home on reasonable budget. How do you give your home a designer look on a dime store budget?
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10 Creative Illusions Interior Decorators Use In Small Spaces
Small spaces can be a challenge to decorate. The wrong color can feel claustrophobic, too much furniture can feel chaotic, and the wrong patterns just feel too busy. Professional interior decorators are master illusionists when it comes to meeting these challenges. Using ten of their favorite tricks, you, too, can make a small space look larger than it is.
1. Don’t Use Dark Colors
Have you ever walk into a room painted a dark color with dark furnishing and a dark rug? It feels like the room is closing in on you. That is the problem with dark colors and it is especially confining in a small room. A small room needs to appear larger than it is to feel comfortable. Using light colors will make walls appear to recede, creating a bright and airy feel. Colors to consider are light blues, greens, light grays and neutrals.
2. Don’t be afraid to go bold
Some people resist the idea of going bold in a small space, but smaller spaces are great canvases to experiment with bold ideas. Start by keeping the color scheme to a few complimentary colors. Consider using, large-scale florals, and graphic prints, vertical or horizontal stripes. The horizontal stripes will visually widen a small narrow room. Vertical stripes will make a low ceiling seem taller. A small room will open up with the use of big prints. Avoid tiny prints; they will be too busy and chaotic in a small space.
3. Don’t ignore scale and proportion
Like Goldie Locks looking for the right bed, one was too big, one too small, and finally one was just right, furniture needs to be just right in a small room. A large couch in a small area can overtake the space, while a small couch will seem dwarfed. You want to use a mix of large pieces along with smaller pieces for balance. Consider using a large bookcase, or sideboard along a wall. Slipper chairs are great options too; they have a low profile and can balance out a six-foot couch.
4. Don’t use contrasting colors on the floors
Your eye follows the floor up to the wall and then to the ceiling. When they are the same colors, or tones you will see it as a continuous line. By keeping the three surfaces in the same color family the space will visually open up as they recede creating the illusion of more space. A room with one floor color, another wall color, and yet another ceiling color will appear disjointed and can make the space appear small.
5. Don’t clutter the room
Clutter is not much different from dark walls when it comes to a small room. If you walk into a room crammed with furniture, overrun with knick-knacks and collectibles it will feel like it is closing in on you. To keep the open feel you want, pick a few cherished items and display them in creative ways. Accessorize a bookcase, or hang a floating shelf for your family pictures, but do not clutter a tabletop. Less is more when furnishing a small space.
6. Don’t ignore traffic patterns
So, you have the right scale furniture, but you want to move around the space easily. A fabulous trick is to float your furniture in the space. Move your couch and chairs away from the wall. This will create depth in the space. You want to see a fair amount of the floor. The more of the floor that can be seen the larger the room will appear. Next, ground your furniture with an area rug in the same color tones as the flooring. You will visually open up the space.
7. Don’t forget the lighting
A small room with poor lighting will feel cave like and claustrophobic. A properly lit room, ought to have three sources of light that bounce off walls and give the room a visual breadth. In a space with little floor room for table lamps or floor lambs, track lighting can help to light a room. Another good trick is to use mirrors. A good mirror will do two things for a small room. It will reflect natural light and the light from lamps and it will create the illusion of a wider, deeper space.
8. Don’t use elaborate window treatments
Small rooms can be overwhelmed with windows framed in full and billowy window treatments with a lot of pattern. Using elaborate window treatments draws attention to the windows instead of just accenting them. Pick window treatments that let light in and gently frame the windows. A simpler style will gently blend harmoniously with a wall rather than visually breaking up the wall.
9. Don’t discount architectural details
Walls that lack interest are boring, but can be exciting with the addition of a few architectural details. Wainscoting and molding, often thought of, as ornate details best used in larger rooms, are beautiful options. They define small spaces well and add visual interest to otherwise dull walls. Consider using chair rails, panels molding or bead board to create some excitement.
10. Don’t ignore vertical space
Once everything is in place, you may realize you have no room for storage and no floor space to add anything. The walls are still there and they are not just for artwork. Take advantage of the vertical space the walls offer, look at it as extra square footage. They are a perfect surface for hanging shelves, or built-ins.
When it comes to decorating small spaces, it is all about tricking the eye to believe that the space is much larger. The next time you face a small uninspiring room, take a page out of the decorators’ playbook. Applying their tips will let you create the illusion of space too. Which tip did you find surprising?
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10 Daring Decorating Trends Interior Designers Love
Some trends come, some trends go, and others enjoy repeat performances. This year’s top trends include many classic motifs and patterns that have been around for a long time. They are reemerging with modernized color schemes and fresh materials, giving interior designers a range of classic yet modern elements to work with. The biggest influence this year is definitely pattern with six making the top ten list.
1.Chevrons
Chevrons aren’t new to design, but they have come on strong this year. The most sought after pattern is one with wider stripes and may even be multiple colors. The Chevron’s clean zigzag is bold and graphic. Used as accents in a room it will add a great visual appeal to a space. The one thing to be aware of is, as with any pattern, too much of it may make you dizzy. Try pairing it with other patterns that share the same color scheme, and break them up with solid colors to keep it uniform.
2. Tribal Patterns
Tribal patterns date back generations. Talented craftsmen have passed down the skill and custom of producing these timeless patterns. They can be found in the heart of Africa, or the Mountains of Peru. These textiles truly bring a global and ethnic feel to an interior design. Available in everything from kilim rugs to wood turned vases and bowls there are many options to use tribal patterns in a space.
3. Botanicals Prints
Decorators often suggest bringing the outdoors in, but if you’re like me and have a black thumb living plants don’t stand a chance. One low maintenance option is to hang botanical prints. They come in a host of colors and styles. You can have simple illustrations of herbs, or colorful drawings of ornate flowers, grouped together they can create a garden look on your walls. There are vintage prints you can find at flea markets or antique shops or more modern prints available at your local art shop. Nature is always a welcomed element in a home and nothing is more welcoming than a beautiful collection of botanical prints.
4.Plaids
Have you ever walked into a men’s den or hunting lodge? Plaids and tartans are the predominate theme creating a cozy and comfortable space. Today, plaids have gone main stream and can be found in bedrooms, living rooms and even as accents in the dining room. The traditionally casual patterns will dress down any formal space with a bit of warmth and masculinity. From the Celtic plaids to the plaids of the Scottish clans there is sure to be a plaid to fit your design style.
5.Animal Prints
From leopard prints to zebra stripes animal prints never seem to go out of style, they are just more popular than ever today. Often found as area rugs, the prints have transitioned to throw pillows, upholstery and even window treatments. Mixed and matched too much and you may just feel like you walked into Elvis’ Jungle room, but used in small doses they can create a luxurious feel . Consider occasional chairs done in leopard, or ottoman‘s covered in a tiger stripe to add that small touch of this great trend. Animal prints are turning away from their natural color schemes and being produced in pastels, neutrals and tone on tone fabrics to the give the look a more whimsical and unexpected feel.
6. Quatrefoil
The ageless quatrefoil or clover pattern has roots dating back to the medieval times and has long been associated with Christianity. Its rounded shape can be seen in the architecture of the day. The Irish have often considered it a symbol of good luck. Well this lucky charm is very popular today. It has sprouted up in many mediums, from fabric to tile and wood. It can be seen in mirrors, furniture and ironwork. Anyone who adds this trend to their space is sure to have a lucky and happy home.
7. Greek Key
The symmetry, order and proportion of the Greek key are all classic elements of design. It is a favorite of interior designers as it works well with most other patterns, from paisley to plaid and even the quatrefoil. Often considered a motif for traditional décor, it can be modernized by using bright bold colors like hot pink or royal blue. Most commonly used in textiles, the design element is showing up as accents on furniture, giving interior designers many options to incorporating this versatile graphic.
8. Wallpaper
Wallpaper is the best example of what’s old is new again. Wallpaper can be found in historic homes and the newest industrial lofts. It’s reemerged with bold graphics like the Chevron, the Quatrefoil and comes in animal prints and plaids. It is one trend that truly incorporates the other popular trends. Wall paper can be used as an accent on a focal wall, or throughout a space. It can even be used in very small doses as artwork framed with molding.
9. Lucite
Lucite is a designer’s best friend right now. Visually it is weightless, almost invisible within a space. While it is considered a modern element, it mixes really well with more ornate pieces as it simply vanishes. Used in a small cramped space and it will give the space the illusion of being larger than it is. Lucite with its crisp clean lines and fresh feel make it a great material to work with. It will modernize a traditional look and take a modern theme to the next level.
10. French Renaissance
When I think of the French Renaissance, Louis the XIV and the courts of Versailles come to mind with the period’s use of opulent fabrics, and ornate furnishings. Borrowed from the Italians but given a more refined look, the French Renaissance pieces focused more on beauty and a little less on function. They opted to use walnut instead of the commonly used oak while adding hand carved legs for a more of an artistic appeal. It is not a style for the budget conscious, but smaller influences can be added to a room to create a bit of the feel. Consider hanging reproductions of paintings by Van Gogh, Monet, or Rembrandt. Incorporating rich velvet and floral fabrics will also lend to the renaissance feel.
So there you have it, the top ten list of this year’s decorating trends. It offers a lot of options to add some fun to your home and rejuvenate a decor that’s stuck in neutral. If you can’t decide which trends are suited to you, fear not, most can be used together. Pair a Lucite table with animal print chairs or add botanical prints to room done in plaid. Mix and match throw pillows with the Greek key, and the quatrefoil patterns for some visual interest. Which trends do you love?
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10 Clever Interior Design Tricks to Transform Your Home
Whether you’ve just moved or are looking for a quick, little home pick-me-up, or perhaps something more significant, there are some well-known interior design tricks that designers employ that you too can easily do with minimal effort and cost. Sometimes the smallest things make the greatest impact. It could be the addition of a mirror, a painting, a lamp or even a plant. Maybe you want to soften your walls, brighten a room, or add some warmth to your living space. Take a look at these clever design tips and see how they can inspire you!
1. Paint smaller rooms in softer, lighter colors to help make the room feel larger.
The living room above is a great example of how to maximize a small living space. A room of this size has the tendency to seem cramped, but the large windows, light colored walls and ample use of mirrors not only reflect the natural light pouring in from the doors and the windows but the use of mirrors also gives the optical illusion of space, making the room seem larger than it actually is. Conversely, darker colors will make a room feel smaller. Even with the abundance of natural light and the strategic placement of the mirrors, this room in a darker shade would have a more boxed-in feel to it.
2. Use decorative mirrors to add instant light to your living space.
As seen above, mirrors can also be used to make a small space feel larger. For larger rooms, or any room with a more limited amount of natural light, mirrors placed directly across from the windows, will add instant light. Decorative mirrors can also be used in lieu of art to fill empty wall space. Large or small, mirrors add light and dimension to your living space.
3. Mix it up. Mix up patterns and textures. Mix up old and new, expensive and inexpensive.
There’s nothing wrong with placing family heirlooms alongside your modern couch. All good interior decorators will tell you that the most important aspect to decorating your home is that it reflects who you are, your personality and your style. The antique Chippendale desk that was your grandfather’s tells a story. It tells the story of your past. The modern couch you fell in love with and simply had to purchase also tells a story, your present story, and there is no reason why the present and past can’t co-exist beautifully together. The same can be said for art. Now you might not want to place a painting by Salvador Dali on the same wall next to a Monet, but there’s no reason why they can’t be in the same room together. With fabrics whether it be furniture, rugs or pillows, varied colors and patterns can bring warmth and texture into your living space.
4. Slip into something a little more comfortable!
Slip covers often get a bad rap but they are truly wonderful things. They can serve as a means of changing your furniture’s look to reflect the seasons. These easily removed coverings allow you to have a sophisticated look without constantly worrying about people dirtying or spilling on your furniture. Slip covers are ideal for rooms used frequently by children. Above the white slip-covered couches gives the air of a casual, comfortable, easy yet sophisticated elegance.
5. Wicker baskets
Wicker baskets are an economical and elegant way to add storage to any room. Baskets can be used to store and display books, architectural and decor magazines, toys, towels and blankets to name a few. Place a couple of small wicker baskets on the counter-tops in your kitchen to beautifully display and store your fruit and vegetables.
6. Use what you already have to decorate.
We all have items in our possession, probably packed up in boxes somewhere and haven’t given them a second glance. Your home needs some accessories. Instead of running to the store, take a good look at what you already have. Trays, wooden, acrylic, metal or silver can be placed on top of luggage racks, tea carts, trunks, bedside tables and coffee tables for extra texture and dimension. Arrange candles on them, frames or pile books on top of them. Plates can be hung to create wonderful wall art. Art from children’s books can be framed and hung in nurseries, children’s rooms or their bathrooms. You will be amazed at what you can do with what you already have!
7. Add a hanging pot holder to your kitchen.
Kitchens are meant to be warm and inviting. We spend much of our time in them whether it be for preparing meals, serving meals or entertaining. A hanging pot rack is useful elegance. Kitchens are meant to feel as though they are in constant use and a hanging pot rack certainly makes one feel this way. In addition to looking so wonderful, (there are many sizes and styles available) additional cupboard space below is now freed up to store other items. Seldom has anyone complained of having too much storage.
8. Go green.
Add plants to your living space. Add them to every room, small or large, few or many. Plants are an inexpensive means to accessorizing your space and adding color and texture. Not only are plants beautiful but many can clean household air and balance humidity. They can absorb pollutants and remove harmful gases from the air. No home should be without these wonderful greens!
9. Paint or wallpaper your bookcases.
This instant pop of color will brighten and re-energize any room! It’s amazing how something so simple as a coat of colorful paint can instantly energize and transform your space. This built-in bookcase would be simple and ordinary without the bright blue interior. Perhaps the simplest and most inexpensive way to transform a boring space is to apply a coat of paint somewhere unexpected. Bookcases are an ideal place to start because you don’t need to paint a large area. Other fun places to add a pop of color include painting fireplace mantels, the insides of closets, hallways and ceilings.
10. Use area rugs to soften hardwood floors.
Throw rugs give warmth and can add great texture, color and personality to your living space. Hardwood floors are beautiful and easy to maintain but they lack the comfort that carpeted floors offer, especially in the cooler months. Area rugs can add fun and functionality to your living space. Use several of varying patterns and fabrics together to showcase your character. Or add several rugs of the same pattern and fabric, or different textures but the same color. The possibilities are endless. You can change your area rugs to reflect the seasons using warmer tones and fabrics for cooler months and lighter ones for the warmer days of the year. There are many lovely cotton, washable area rugs which are ideal for those homes with children. There really is no reason why a home with young children cannot also be a stylish one.
What inspired you? Personally, I’m just mad about these animal hide rugs that seem to be all the rage lately. The question is, do I go for the cow or the zebra? Or both, and just say that I live in a barn!
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10 Reasons Why You Should Hire an Interior Decorator
It’s something to think about if you haven’t already done so. Hiring an interior decorator is a smart decision if you’ve invested a good bit of money into your home and want to be able to showcase it to look its best. Decorators truly serve a purpose for everyone. Whether you have no idea where or how to begin to decorate your home, or whether you have an idea but need help tying pieces together, or you simply haven’t the time to execute your style and desires due to your busy day to day schedule.
I recently asked Michelle Cortizo of Cortizo Interiors in Boston, Massachusetts, to explain why hiring an Interior Decorator is a wise and sensible choice. Toss aside the idea that interior decorators are only for the rich and famous or those with so much money that they don’t know what to do with it all. In reality they save you a great deal of time and money and headache medicine!
1. Save Money.
It might sound strange that hiring someone to decorate your home would save you money since you have the additional fee of the designer, however Cortizo makes a compelling point. “Hiring a designer can help you to avoid costly mistakes that will not only help you save money but can increase the value of your home.”
2. Professional Assessment.
“A designer can give you a professional assessment of your situation, that will will lead to a solid plan of action. The order of things in a design plan is key in determining what can be repurposed or should be edited. This will not only effect the budget but help you to spend it more efficiently.” A designer offers an extra set of eyes, but these eyes are trained to see and notice things that you may not.
3. Budgeting and Planning.
A designer can keep you on budget and save you time and effort. A designer knows where to go for resources for everything related to your home. This will save you endless amounts of time researching products, brands and prices. A designer will have all this readily on hand, and should he or she not, will spend the time researching so that you don’t have to.
4. Liaison
A designer will be able to build “a stronger bridge between you and your architect or contractor early on and can head off design misses in your overall plan. This is crucial in managing time and money explains Cortizo. Also designers are trained to think about things we may overlook. “It’s so important that the lighting and furnishing needs are addressed before construction. If your living room sofa is floating in a the middle of the room you want to make sure you have the proper placement for floor outlets.”
5. Wide availability of resources.
There are things available to designers that are not available to the general public in terms of connections, resources and general merchandise. By culminating these resources designers can help to make your space look more collected, unique and pulled together.
6. Contacts.
Cortizo states that : “In addition to vendor resources, designers have many home improvement industry contacts. They can save homeowners time and headaches trying to identify reliable, contractors, plumbers and electricians for their projects.”
7. Wow Factor.
Designers can help to give you the “wow” factor you’ve been looking for. They are trained to think differently, spatially and to see an overall picture that clients often cannot. Cortizo adds that “Thinking outside of the box is what designers do all day long.”
8.Home sale.
A decorator can potentially add a great deal to the aesthetic of your home, which in turn can increase showings and sales. This increased appeal can exponentially speed up the amount of time your home sits on the market before it is sold. The benefit here is two-fold, a faster turn-around time and more money in your pocket.
9. A trained eye.
“A designer is a professional with a trained eye that can automatically tell you if there is something wrong or right with a space. Having that immediate consult is a major advantage when making aesthetic decisions. It is the result of years of experience.” says Cortizo.
10. Visual story-teller
Cortizo concludes with the fact that : “Interior design is a skill and an art that will only enhance the space and the quality of your life in the space. Hiring a pro raises the level of that experience and makes your house a home. A designer can help you tell your visual story. I can’t think of a better reason than that!”
Given all this information will you consider hiring an interior designer the next time you remodel, buy a home or move?
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10 Secrets From Top Interior Designers to Better Your Home
Sometimes we need a little help with our homes. Whether we have lived in our homes for 2 months of twenty years, we all need to change things up from time to time. Our lives our ever changing and this should also be reflected in our living spaces. Changes can be simple, the purchase of a few new accessories, or perhaps a painting. But maybe a big change is due, a new paint color, some new furniture, perhaps even a remodel. Following are some very simple secrets from some well known interior designers to help you transform your living space to best reflect your style and personality.
1. “The first rule about decorating is that you can break almost all the other rules.” — Billy Bladwin
Something almost all decorators will tell you is that rules are meant to be broken. It is more important that the decor in your home reflects your living style and your personality than any conventional rule. It is important, however, to find balance so that a home doesn’t become to stale and boring or too busy and distracting.
2.”Never push furniture up against the walls. By pulling your seating arrangement in (even just a few inches) you instantly warm up a space and create flow. ” — Betsy Burnham
While each designer has his or own trick to transforming a room, they unanimously believe that a home should feel well lived in, represent the home-owners interests and passions and should never be too serious. Above this cozy library manages to do it all. This library is warm and inviting while giving us glimpses into the owner’s own life.
3. “Ceilings must always be considered. They are the most neglected space in a room.” — Albert Hadley
When decorating one’s home one tends to immediately think of the walls, followed by the furniture and then the floor, but rarely do people think of what’s overhead. This gold ceiling manages to do several things in this room. It reflects the natural light coming in from the oversized windows, it adds depth and warmth to the room, and it certainly adds a touch of whimsy.
4. “Pinches of color keep a room feeling youthful and engaging.” — Christina Murphy
Many people are afraid to paint their walls a bright color. Color can also be added through accessories. Lovely blankets, vases, paintings, pillows and rugs are a wonderful way to add a pop of color. Start in small increments. Perhaps add a colorful lamp, then you can add a vase, the blanket, and if you are ready try tackling larger areas. Color really does affect your mood and can make your living space a happy and energetic one.
5. “Use wallpaper in unexpected places: on the ceiling, in a paneled room, in closets, hallways and small foyers. A great pattern or texture in small spaces can be a prodigious twist.” — Lindsay Coral Harper
It’s always fun to walk in to someone’s home and find the unexpected. A formal dining room with a bright colored ceiling, a white hallway and an unexpectedly colorful stairwell. A simple white bedroom may offer up a playful surprise with a fun patterned papered wall in the closet. In the room above one’s eye is immediately drawn upward to the playful yet elegant ceiling.
6. “I appreciate history but you have to bring your own experience into your rooms.” — Istvan Francer
What makes your home uniquely your own home are the things you have in it. Showcase your personal possessions to reveal your personality, adventures, and achievements. Mix your accessories with new and old. We all have a past, present and a future and these are all a part of our personal histories.
7. “I don’t think people have enough fun with decorating. It doesn’t always have to be so serious. Design isn’t like marriage, you don’t have to commit for life.” — Ross Cassidy
Don’t be afraid to try something new. You can always change it. Furniture can be rearranged and walls can be repainted. As with all things, in home decor, try something new, you might like it. Start small if you must then go bigger. The room above would be very bland without the fun and colorful furniture. The furniture gives the room its personality. It shows that the owner is fun loving and most likely doesn’t take him or herself too seriously. Conversely, if the walls and lamp shades were not white, the room would be much too busy and too distracting.
8. “Real comfort, visual and physical is vital in every room.” — Mark Hampton
Another area where all designers seem to agree is the importance of comfort in one’s home. It doesn’t matter what your own personal style is – Whether you are elegant and sophisticated or casual and whimsical… Whether you are minimalist, eclectic, classic, bohemian – the most important thing is to make your home livable. A well designed home is one that is both comfortable and functional.
9. “The most important thing? Perfect lighting at all times.” — Oscar de la Renta
Natural light is best but when natural light sources are limited there should be plenty of light sources. Consider your environment. Are you in a large city, near a forest or by the ocean. Some homes will have more natural light than others and the light in your home will shift and vary through the day. Sit in all the rooms of your home throughout the day and you will notice where lighting needs to be supplemented. The right kind of lighting in the right space will add a glow and a warmth to your surroundings.
10. “Accessories are where I like to make a statement. They’re the soul of a room.” — Austin Warner
Accessories are a great way to tie in all decor together. They can pull all the pieces together to give your space a finished look. Accessorizing is another way to add a personal touch to your space as they often tell a story of where you have been and where your interests lie. If you are too timid to go for large amounts bold color, patterns or decor in your home, you can still create a colorful atmosphere with the accessories you choose.
Are you inspired to make a few changes around the house? Where will you start? What will you do? I need to add some more color, myself and am looking for just the right rug to tie everything together.
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Contemporary Townhouse Interior by Cecconi Simone
A few days ago Cecconi Simone sent us images about their latest project. Cecconi Simone has designed the model for a community of thirty-seven contemporary townhouses by Treasure Hill Developments in Little Italy / Little Portugal, Downtown Toronto. Here are a few words about this project according to Cecconi Simone : “The 662 s.f. show suite is a careful study in urban living, its manifest simplicity belying its essential complexity. It embodies the modern impulse for openness, unity, and fluidity, within which functional parts are accommodated effortlessly. The character of the different zones is easy to read though their interrelationship is dense and multi-faceted.
Three distinct yet continuous areas – dine-cook-live – are defined clearly within the spatial totality, linked by an interplay of surface planes in cadence; horizontal and vertical, matte and reflective, transparent and opaque, dark and light. Deep espresso, custom millwork contracts the space, creating intimacy and warmth, while the white lacquer, custom kitchen island provides visual expansion and release. The oak stair on a single stringer behind floor-to-ceiling plate glass is highlighted with LEDs, imbuing it with complexity and dimensional depth.
As part of the overall design discourse, there are few freestanding or decorative furnishings within the suite. The integrity of its interior architecture stands on its own, enlivened with carefully-calibrated artificial and natural light. Sliding veneer panels – for concealed storage, media, and food preparation – maintain the model’s architectonic focus, ensuring clear and extended sight lines. The eye is led through the space where its discrete elements are introduced then fused into a seamless whole. - Photography: [ Joy von Tiedemann ]
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