Creatively Yours Custom Interior Design

Senior Color Schemes – Paint Designs for Senior Safety

2012-01-25T11:43:00.000-08:00

I am not sure if it is a medical miracle or not, but Americans are living longer these days. As a result, our aging population segment is mushrooming. We have a growing need for age restricted communities and to be able to retool existing residences for comfort, safety and independence. Today I will focus on the role of color in design for this stage of life. It is so important.

The human eye changes with age. Its ability to perceive subtle color contrasts diminishes over time. I noticed this with my Mom as she would have trouble seeing the grey and brown colors of the steps in front of her. Using my Mom as my test subject, I challenged myself as an interior decorator to create a color scheme with enough contrast and brightness of hues for the senior eyes. This has become one of my areas of specialization.

Contrast is the key. It is so very important and the concept of contrast can be applied in many situations for older adults. Starting with the walls, I would recommend light color schemes. They are the best colors because their finishes increase light reflectance without glare – a major problem that leads to visual confusion and can be hard on cataract patients. Light colors on walls help show up contrasting furniture, wall switches, etc. Even using dark switch plates on a wall mounted lights is a boon. Also, if you use contrast color on the baseboards and floors, it becomes easier to identify the edges of a room. One last work on walls – using low VOC paints (volatile organic compounds).They are eco-friendly and cut down on the toxic fumes emitted from fresh paint. That is good news for seniors who will be spending a lot of time in their rooms NOT breathing paint fumes!

Skillful use of contrast finishes can define a doorway, outline furniture and indicate the top and bottom steps of a flight of stairs. If the colors are easier to see, the result is a help for mature eyes. Doorframes and baseboards can be painted a darker color or stained a dark wood tone to easily indicate a wall or doorway. Put a colorful tread on the top and bottom step of a set of stairs to separate that area from the rest the floor.

Here’s the rest of the scoop on pattern and color. Patterned wallpaper can be used but skip large stripes. They can appear as bars in motion and affect balance and mobility for mature eyes. Wall coverings in small patterns are always winners. Washable and strippable paper is always best. Be wary when using two intense colors together as their borders often become unstable and jumpy. Definitely use bright intense colors to grab bars, levers and light switches for instance and they will become easy to find.

Making the right interior design color and furnishings decisions can go a long way to a better life and a comfortable living environment. For further information check into www.ncoa.org and www.usa.gov/topics/Seniors.shtml. Through my designs, my Mom and I hope to impart a sense of safety, comfort and enjoyment for all seniors.

Buying Green at the White Sales

2012-01-19T11:55:00.000-08:00

The white sales that are on now are a great time to stock up on linens and towels for your home. You can be eco-friendly with your purchases by choosing organic fibers such as cotton or bamboo for your sheets and towels. Both are renewable sources. They do not give off toxic odors and feel much softer than synthetic fibers. So go shop the white sales, pick up some really nice linens and help preserve our planet.

So Pretty and Flattering

2012-01-19T11:53:00.000-08:00

I just love the way this scalloped valance turned out for one of my clients. She was working with the colors of nature and neutrals and wanted a treatment to complete the decor but not cover the window as blinds were there for privacy.

This valance adds curves and contrast. The color "Leather" adds the highlights in the jabots and top cording. See more images of my work on my online gallery and set up your own personal design consultation.

My Home is On A Diet

2012-01-13T07:48:00.000-08:00

This year's diet resolution is not just for my husband and myself-I have included my home in this losing project! The timing is just perfect. After a holiday season of over-indulging on sweets and goodies, I discovered that my home also had been over-indulged and is "full" of just too much stuff.
We are empty-nesters and need put the house through an organizing and simplifying routine. It takes being a little ruthless when deciding what to get rid off but it is so cathartic. Just thinning a closet feels really good.I like to call it "simple clean" and as a side benefit, it has given me a lot more breathing room.
I have 2 e-books on organizing and living in small spaces that put the best of my advice at your fingertips so you can do it yourself. Click here:www.creativelyyourscustom.com/bookstore.html and scroll down to these very reasonably priced e-books!

Oh Christmas Tree

2011-12-14T11:39:00.001-08:00

was walking my dog one night last week and noticed that many of my neighbors have put up their tree. It is a sight that I just love - the twinkling tree visible through the window. I guess that means it is time for me to get out my holiday decorations and perform the annual ritual of adorning my house from head to toe. Over the years I have developed a “method to the madness” of decorating my home. I thought I might share some of my thoughts on this subject with you and inspire you to create your own version of the “method”!
Start with the biggest part - the tree. If you have a pre-lit, skip ahead to the next step of tree decorating. You can never have too many lights. Ten strands of 100 lights for a 7 foot tree is a good guideline. Work from the inside of the tree to the outside wrapping lights to the tip of each branch. Sounds like a lot of work - but your tree will shine. Put the topper on next. It needs to be eye-catching as most people tend to look up at the tree top first. It will give you a better feel for how to proceed with the rest of the tree. Garland would come next if you want to add it to the tree. It adds color and texture in an unexpected way. Start at the top and go horizontally leaving enough slack to make the garland swag as it goes across. Drop down for the next row on the back of the tree. Add your ornaments next. As a guide, consider basic ball ornaments as fillers and use 10-20 per 3 feet of your tree. Larger ones should be put toward the back near a light so they will glow from deep inside. Your favorite ornaments should hang in a visible spot and on the outer tips of the outermost branches. Ornaments show off the best when suspended from a branch. The same rule 10-20 per 3 feet of tree applies.
Many of you have collections of angels or Santas that you put out during the holidays. Select 2-3 places in your home to set up your displays. It could be the dining room table, the mantel, or a side table. Remember the “less is more” rule and just display a few pieces in each grouping. Add some greenery and a pretty holiday mat under it all and you are set.
I like to dress up the outside of my home with lots of simple wreathes with big red bows. It is a Christmas tradition and gives a welcoming, homey look to visitors. Since it is on the outside of the house, the bigger wreathes look more proportionally correct.
Homes with lots of outdoor lights look really great too. To me, it says the person who did all that decorating on the outside, loves Christmas as much as I do.
Happy holidays everyone!

A House Hunting Adventure

2011-10-20T21:14:00.000-07:00

My son is now looking to buy his first home. He asked me to help him and I jumped at the chance to do what I do best-design. We have seen everything from well kept ranchers to 4 bedroom fixer-uppers. I want to share some nuggets of the advice and visions I gave him after each house visit -usually in the car as we were driving to the next one on his list. I will hit the highlights of our conversations that can help those of you looking to purchase a home.
I have always stated that a fresh coat of paint is easy to do and can cover a multitude of sins from previous owners. Also, if the colors do not flow from room to room, the house may seem chaotic and chopped up. My son will get my”color walk through” service when he picks the home he wants to give it harmony and cohesion without major remodeling. Always inspect the walls before painting for signs of foundation shifting/cracking or mold presence. These issues could be a deal breaker.
Many houses on the market are a little dated. They can become more current with the addition of a few new things. Consider changing door knobs, hinges and cabinet hardware to a more modern finish. Replace interior doors with new 6 panel doors. Change out light fixtures in the ceiling, at the front door and over the bathroom vanity. Carpets that are in bad shape can be replaced or changed to laminate/hardwood floors. They are long lasting and easier for people with allergies especially if the previous owner had pets.
As far as the structure of the house goes, enlist a home inspector to look for things you would not normally notice. They check roofs, utility systems and foundations for any issues that could potentially become a costly repair for the new owner.
Here is my point. I tell my clients that it takes 3-5 years to make a house a “home”. When you are considering purchasing a home, you need to try and see beyond its current décor to what you would like it to be. If it is the size and style you want and is structurally safe, you can move in and slowly change the décor to put your personal style on it. Make your own 3 year plan for remodeling.
Repairs and replacements that are beyond the scope of interior design need to be looked at differently. Necessary repair costs need to be addressed along with the price of the home. For the house of your choice, make a list of what needs to be done and get prices for those items . Consider that cost in relation to the asking price of a home and what you will offer to the seller. Stay within your budget.
Well, there are three more houses on my son’s list to look at tonight. Maybe one of these will “the one”. We shall see.

The Journey of The Family Room Updating

2011-10-11T08:27:00.000-07:00

When my husband built the fireplace surround, the entire room had the same dark wood stain on the paneling and screamed 1970's very loud and clear. Until last month, my husband fiercely fought to protect that outdated image. What made him give in and let me start updating that room is unclear to this day. But, nonetheless, it has started. Paint was the first step. I wanted to get to a bright, warm and inviting feel for the room. There were steps we had to take first- deglossing and priming. But the look is awesome! The paint is Valspar Homestead Resort Tea Room Yellow, a yellow that does not turn green on the wall. I have become a strong advocate for the sample jars of paint. Stay tuned for furniture, accessory and window treatment updates.

A Carpet That Has It All

2011-09-27T09:52:00.000-07:00

How would you like to have carpet of your dreams-very strong,eco-friendly and superior stain resistance? Who wouldn't? I think I have found the answer!
Mohawk's new line of sustainable carpet features Smartstrand. I have the scoop on this product for you. About 1/3 of the ingredients are made from renewable resources. The stain resistance of this carpeting will never wear off. Just think, superior stain resistance that is there forever! Warm water will remove some very scary permanent stains on the SmartStrand- mustard, wine and bleach-yes bleach! The worldwide ecomony and ecology benefit from less production energy needed and lower greenhouse gas emissions in these carpets.
This product is the answer to consumers needs.You have to see it to believe it.

Answering a Request for Ceiling Fan Redesign Pictures

2011-09-22T10:56:00.000-07:00

By popular request, I have posted here pictures of my redesigned ceiling fans. Hope they will get your creative juices going!

More of the Fresh Ideas

2011-09-12T18:47:00.000-07:00

1.For a quick side table, use a luggage rack. There are so many styles to fit any décor. Top with a tray or your favorite book collection.

2. Perk up a guest or master bathroom. Display a selection of high quality hand towels rolled up and placed inside a reed basket or wooden bowl set on the countertop. Add a decorative trim or tassel fringe to the bottom of a readymade shower curtain to get a custom look.

3. Move a decorative display or collection in your home to a different room than where you now have it. Add a beautiful placemat or a metallic charger plate under the display. It will seem brand new to you.

4. Replace the top screws on your lampshades with a decorative finial. They are available in cut glass, metallic designs and marble finials. It is a nice touch to freshen the look of the lighting in your homes.

Some Fresh Ideas

2011-08-31T11:18:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the decorating bug bites and we want to make quick, easy changes that can shake things up a bit in our homes. As a bonus, these 5 ideas that do not involve picking up a paint brush or any other form of manual labor. We all like that.
1. Bring in fresh flowers. This is so simple yet it can have a powerful punch. Many retail locations now offer pretty bouquets at a very reasonable cost. Your home will feel fresh and welcoming to your guests and your family.
2. Create some spaciousness in your small spaces by replacing bulky wood tables with open, glass-top styles. They are available as dining tables and coffee tables.
3. Get a new lamp. Newer styles range from some that have attractive sculptures as their base to those that have clear vases that you can fill with different elements to create just the right mood for your rooms.
4. Show your flair just a little! Use that color or fabric you have been wanting to display in a small way such as a throw pillow or a small chair. You will get the punch of pattern and color that will work fine with your existing décor.
5. Add a little fun to any conversation area with the addition of a super fluffy shag rug in either a bold color or a soft creamy color. It adds the unexpected touch.

Is It Real Or Faux?

2011-08-23T10:30:00.000-07:00

Faux is a fancy French word for "false".It refers to a manufacturing process that creates items to closely resemble the genuine article. Faux has been a buzz word in interior décor for a long time. It offers clients a variety of price points for their home’s interior design, it preserves our natural resources,and it opens up a world of design possibilities. Besides, who wants to tell their friends about the fabulous “false” interior décor items in their home?
Everyone is familiar with faux wood blinds. They provide great coverage on the window and the slats are pretty impressive for a fake. The same faux wood can be used in shutters. Also,there are some really good faux fabrics out there that are durable, eco-friendly and a good value. Faux silk has the same luster and slub as real silk. Faux suedes and leathers offer an excellent combination of color, value pricing and are easy to care for.
One of my favorite faux products is the perfect answer to one of my least favorite design issues – the windowless room. I always feel like the walls are closing in and that the room lacks the brightness afforded by light pouring in a window. The solution is another faux. It is a wall mural that can be a fake window with a scene of beaches and forests out the window. It is applied to the wall like wallpaper. There are images of French doors open to the outside view of a beach with the ocean beckoning beyond. The effect on the room is dramatic. It visually pushes the walls out and opens up the room to the horizons of the mural. You just have to see the effect this has on a room for yourself. Rooms increase in size without any remodeling! I have one client who took this design style one step further. We put an octagon window mural in their windowless guest bathroom. My client then went out and got some window moldings to frame in the window mural. What a great idea. Not only did the window mural open up the room but then when it was framed in, it gained dimension. I guess you could say it was a blend of faux and real.

Its all in the Details

2011-08-15T21:22:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of visiting Biltmore Estates in Asheville, NC last week. The beauty and design of the place was amazing. Nothing was left to chance. Everything was finished to the last detail. Lots and lots of detail. Each of the beams in the ceilings was decoratively finished with a pattern painted on or papered on. The raised panel doors also had a fluted edge in each of the panels of the door. The door latches had large adorned brass platings. Arched doors that had arched wood moldings also had a patterned decorative arched wood piece next to the moldings.
It may sound like more than you want for your home but the concept to remember is that it is the details that make the decor unique and beautiful.
What a great place. Plan to visit there!

Color Focus- For Today and 2012

2011-08-02T07:37:00.000-07:00

The gurus of the home fashion world are now enlightening us with their fresh color combinations for the coming year. The hues that they forecast will be showing up in home stores all across the country. This year the movement in color is based on all things of nature that inhabit the Earth. We realize the need to sustain Mother Earth for generations to come. These new color schemes draw deeply on the many hues we see right outside our windows.
Neutrals will become warmer- just as if the sun were shining on this color palette. They will reflect the golden tint of a sunny day and will include everything from the color of a wheat field blowing in the breeze to a piece of driftwood found on the beach.
The shades of red and orange are going to show marvelous variations. Think of a ripe red apple. If you look closely at it, you will see more than one color in the peel. Expect to see these natural color variations for this category.
Blues for 2012 reflects the color of water as the world works to preserve this valuable natural resource. Stand on the shoreline and observe the variation of the colors in the water. This group contains the colors of ocean currents and rushing waves. Look also for faded blue to make a statement in fabrics and décor. Take a trip to an aquarium and become inspired for colors.
Lastly, greens are and will always be the color of nature. The movement for sustainability of the earth –“going green”- takes its name from this color. The beautiful greens in the unspoiled places on earth- deep in the forest and in the undersea world- will dominate this coming year. Green is one of my favorite colors as every color of flower has a green stem and leaves.
This is the year for you to take your cue from nature and look outside your window for inspiration. Mother Nature still reigns as the best color consultant around.

Your Color Questionairre

2011-07-28T21:20:00.000-07:00

Bohdan Gernaga calls it tapping into his clients inner rainbow. I refer to it as discovering a client's color personality. Color self assessment will tell you a lot. Consider the following: How does the room make you feel? Would you like to change how you feel about that room? How do you use the room? What do you want this room to say to guests in your home? Do you have any furnishings or fabrics you want to put in the room?
Your answers will help you determine your color personality. That is a good guideline to refer to when you are making a decorating decision.
Fall 2011 color forecast will be out soon. Stay tuned.

Design for your Community

2011-07-21T11:26:00.000-07:00

How about a little design work "outside the box"? As I look around at a lot of residential communities (mine included), the entrances and signs have become ragged, weatherworn and overgrown. I have a design plan in mine for the ones in my neighborhood that will transform the entrances into something all of us can enjoy. How about you? Does your neighborhood entrance need a little sprucing up? Need a new sign? Lighting? I am thinking that I can use some solar lights there for illumination- no power bill for that type of lighting. Here is the before pic and the after pic will follow when the weather is better( 100 degrees today) and we can get to the work. Let's share pics and ideas!

The Best Fabric For Your Home- By Far!

2011-07-15T08:01:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading a blog about the beautiful variety of indoor/outdoor fabrics in the market and I just love them! If they are meant to stand up to the elements of summer weather, then imagine how good they would be for indoor use where fabrics get a lot of wear and tear and use by the whole family. I am currently designing a sunroom on the river that sees a lot of family traffic, wet swimsuits, and fruity thirst-quenching drinks. We are covering the dining table benches and the furniture in that room in an indoor/outdoor fabric for easy maintanence and less worry and more summer fun and enjoyment. Pictures will follow when the room is complete.

Create a Custom Ceiling Fan

2011-07-07T10:53:00.000-07:00

This is just about the time that the original ceiling fans that I purchased for my home are starting to look dated. I could have replaced them I suppose but instead chose to try a little "recycling design". The blades were wood look with a cane insert from the 1980's. So we took them off the fan, turned them over and painted them a glossy black for our master bedroom. Voila! Instant class!
The blades from my kitchen fan got a coat of red paint to complement the red and blue/white toile scheme. See picture:https://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Creatively-Yours-Interior-Design/110651859738
That was just painting them. Think marbelized paint, decorative finishes, tole painting and more.

"Mom's Cave"- What a Great Idea

2011-06-28T11:37:00.000-07:00

This idea is just for us girls. The “mom cave” is the new decorating phenomenon for the women of the house as they stake a claim to a secluded and quiet space of their own. It is a wonderful idea not only for moms and wives- girls can create their own “girlfriend cave”. The macho looking “man cave” with its sport memorabilia and big screen television has inspired the creation of this very feminine space that offers solace and a place for rebuilding inner strength and regrouping.
The “mom cave” can be any size you can carve out in your home. A walk-in closet would make a wonderful cozy space that is budget friendly. Find a space away from the center of activity in your home if possible.Just get started and find a spot to call your own.
Decorating the “mom cave” and the “girlfriend cave” is a breeze. Always have the room measurements handy so when you see the perfect chaise, you will know if it is a perfect fit. Think about how you want the room to work for you. It could be a place to sit in a comfy chair and listen to your favorite music. Or if you would like to try your hand at different arts you will need to include a table surface.
Start by deciding what to use on the walls Be as colorful or neutral as your heart desires. After all, this space will be a reflection of you to be enjoyed by you. Do you like stripes, florals, or pastel colors? This is the place to put them. Then get furnishings and accessories new or from around the house that will work for your vision of the “mom cave.” The only rule for this space is that you feel happy and relaxed in your personal cocoon.
Now just sit back and enjoy your special area and never again be envious of the guys relaxing in their “man cave”. Besides, our special spaces are so much prettier!!
So many of you are crafty and like design. I would love to see some of the ideas you come up with for this! E mail photos to me at Linda@Creativelyyourscustom.com. Call me to help you get started on your special space. I have some great ideas for you.

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How to Pull It All Together

2011-06-15T08:15:00.001-07:00

How to Pull It All Together

Have you gotten to that place yet? I have been there more times than I care to admit. Every one of us will come to that place of not knowing how to pull our interior decorating together in our homes. We may have good design furnishings in our homes but completing the look and the flow of colors can be a challenge. I hear from many of my clients that they too are stuck and cannot bring their interior decorating together. But why does that happen? Are there some quick coordinating tips to help pull a look together? Oh yes, and I have lots of experience completing interior designs for my clients so they live happily ever after in their homes!
”Know your style.” Do you like traditional furnishings? Or is that too old fashioned for you and the latest up to date style is more you? What pieces do you already have that you love? Pay close attention to home décor items that you really like in magazines or in furniture stores. All of these things will lead you to discover your design style. Then you will have sufficient information to work on decorating your room. When you get stuck and cannot decide what else a room may need to complete it, let your newly discovered style sense guide your choices. It is a big help and keeps you on track.
“Analyze your colors.” Colors set a mood, create atmosphere and can totally influence the décor of a room. Whether your walls are painted with a lot of color or you have it in small doses with throw pillows, it is very important. Do you have a color scheme? Do you use your colors when considering the design elements of your room? You will not believe how much easier it is to decorate when you consider the colors involved.
Consider the accessories in your room. They need to coordinate and compliment the overall interior decoration of your room and are part of the whole picture.
“Acquire the power of observation.” There is another great tool I suggest to my clients and I encourage you to try it also. Sit in your room for awhile without any distractions and write down your design thoughts as they come into your mind. Train yourself to become observant of the room’s furnishings and how they make you feel. Calm? Happy? Warm? Disorganized? Doing this little exercise will tell you a lot about how you see your room presently and where you would like it to go in the future. That is a plan if there ever was one for coordinating a room’s décor.
Now you are ready to go forth and decorate. Have no fear- run with your ideas to create a successful design!

Colors Lead the Way in Senior Friendly Design

2011-06-01T19:11:00.001-07:00

Americans are living longer these days thanks to modern medicine and healthier lifestyles. As a result of all this good stuff, the elder segment of our population is mushrooming and many new living issues have cropped up. Today’s focus is the role of color in design for empty nesters and seniors, whether they age in place at home or downsize to an age restricted community. Good senior design addresses furnishings for their safety as well as colors for their living environment.
The human eye undergoes major changes with age. Vision and color perception diminish over time. These changes can make everyday life quite challenging. A very important part of every senior design I do is to create a color scheme for elderly eyes that will improve their quality of life. The key to this is good use of color contrast in their living environment.
I always start with the walls and the doors since they are the biggest surfaces in a room. My recommendation is to use light colors for the wall in a matte finish. They increase light reflectance and do not cause annoying glare that can be hard on someone with cataracts. Furniture and fixtures show up easily if their colors are in contrast to a light wall color. In addition, when contrast colors are used on the baseboards and floors, it is easier to identify the edges of a room. Skillful use of contrast finishes can define a doorway and indicate the top and bottom steps of a flight of stairs. These painting ideas help make life easier for our aging population. One final word about paint- use low VOC paints to cut down on fumes which can affect the respiratory systems of some seniors. It is also eco-friendly.
I have some additional thoughts on color and pattern. Skip wallpaper patterns with large stripes. They tend to appear as bars in motion to senior eyes and can affect mobility. Wall coverings in small patterns are always winners. Be wary of using two intense colors side by side in the same room as their borders can appear unstable and jumpy. Limit the bright intense colors to grab bars, levers and light switches. It will make them easy to find.
Making the right interior design and color decisions can go a long way to a better life and comfortable living environment for our older citizens. Through my interior designs, I hope to impart a sense of safety, comfort and enjoyment for all seniors. They deserve the best in this new stage of living!

Persian Rug Inspired Design

2011-05-25T10:32:00.000-07:00

I love the deep brick red and royal blues of the living room that led the way for the interior design color scheme of this living room. The 2 wing chairs were recovered in the brick red. The banding on the draperies and the throw pillows also got a dose of this color. In front of the drop leaf table, a floral arrangement of the color scheme was added and highlighted by the rich wood of the table.The deep blue was added only as the accent color on the pillows and in some of the accessories around the room. The result was a room of beautiful colors that meshed so nicely!

New Styles, Energy Efiiciency and Green Design Window Treatments

2011-05-09T11:25:00.000-07:00

Would you believe that your window treatments can be stylish, contemporary, green and energy efficient? Well now it is possible to have it all for your home. Hunter Douglas has created the best of all worlds for your windows.
Natural Elements is their new collection of horizontal blinds that combine modern metal alloys with the warmth of real wood accents. Textured and shimmery finish slats give maximum view. Rich wood valances and keystones create a fashion statement. Materials used in these blinds are 95% recycled making them a green product. That is a winning combination of style and earth friendly materials.
Solar Energy Sensors for Hunter Douglas shades automatically raise or lower window shade treatments according to the changing sunlight to provide energy cost savings. They couldn’t be simpler to install- just stick them to the window where the shades are installed. Watch them go to work adjusting the shades to keep out the heat. Many of their shade products have a high R-value- an indicator of a product’s resistance to air flow passing through it from outside. A high R-value can stop much of the hot air from entering your home. Even the efficiency of low e-glass windows can be doubled with certain energy efficient shades. And the Federal Tax Credit applies to some of these products to boot. How can you lose? You just have to see them! Call me to arrange your personal energy saving design consultation and see all of the stylish, green and efficient products.

WHAT IS YOUR STYLE

2011-04-20T12:27:00.001-07:00

WHAT IS YOUR STYLE?
Every month, you will find me poring over more issues of home décor magazines than you can shake a stick at! I love reading them and seeing what is new. I am always tearing out pictures of rooms that have that “wow” factor in their décor. I just know that some future client will be totally into that style! Hmm, it just so happens that today’s topic is style. What is it? How do you find your style?
Spend a few minutes people watching at the mall and you will see a wide variety of styles in peoples’ clothing and overall appearance. Some of them will not appeal to you. But it works for them and they are comfortable in their own skin. So let’s talk about your “style” and making you “comfortable in your own skin” as it applies to your home. I would like you to start by evaluating your clothes closet. Do you see lots of one particular color? Are there a lot of bright colors or neutrals? Are most your outfits very traditional or the very latest in fashions? You should see your “style” begin to emerge by doing this. So suppose you have noted your clothes are mostly neutrals and conservative. Your style is more traditional with a neutral palette and you would be more at home with a tan colored sofa and maybe a few throw pillows in a brighter color. Armed with this knowledge about yourself, you can begin to transform your rooms to fit your own personal colors and preferences. When your surroundings reflect your taste and style, it is very welcoming and lifts your spirits. So, go ahead and look in your closet, make a few general notes and apply the findings to your rooms. It really works, cross my heart!
Another good indicator of personal style lies in how you read a home décor magazine. I know that sounds odd, but just bear with me. As you flip through a decorating magazine, you will see lots of photos of completed rooms on the pages. Here again, you will have a love/hate reaction to the different looks. Take notice of the pictures that hold your attention the longest, or in my case, the ones where I tear the pages out! These particular pages that you ooh and aah at are further indicators of your style. It could be the colors used or the type of furnishings and accessories. When this happens to you, take notes and if possible, tear out the page for later reference. Think about how the ideas shown in your favorite photos can be applied to your rooms.
There you have two excellent ways to start transforming your home to reflect your personal style. You can begin with small changes, like accessories, or go big and repaint. If your home reflects your passions and interests and is full of what you love, then it is truly a pleasure to live in it.

Favorite Things Fine Designer Fabrics

2011-04-08T14:00:00.000-07:00

I have been pouring over 3 new custom fabrics from Kasmir and I certainly have my favorites. If you like beautiful tapestry weaves, unique fabric color palettes and lovely softness then this exclusive volume set of fabrics is for you. The experience of seeing this variety of quilted, woven and layered styles is a feast for the eyes. Imagine the substantial hand of a woven fabric with threads of many wonderful colors hanging at your windows or on your sofa. They are so luxurious and dreamy. See them in the comfort of your own home. Let me know how I can help!

A Window Treatment Fresh Idea- Quilted Cornices

2011-03-31T10:34:00.000-07:00

My client’s dining room got a “quiet elegance” interior decorating makeover last week. The beautiful quilted cornice boards played a big part in the decor. The grey Chinese wallpaper in the room had a soft luster to it. Soft coral flowers with green stems were randomly placed on the wallpaper. Grey peau de soie cornices in a custom quilt pattern nicely coordinated with the wallpaper. The carpeting pulle

d out the coral of the flowers. Silky custom pleated sheers completed the interior design of the room. The look was a huge hit especially with the chandelier lights dimmed to a soft glow.

More On The New Lightbulbs

2011-03-23T10:50:00.000-07:00

The Kelvin number is important in deciding whether you want a yellow or white glow in your room’s décor. It is also important when considering the use of a room. 2700K is considered good for bedrooms and dining rooms. 4100K is used for general lighting and for offices and work areas. To read, a 5000k bulb is recommended.
Lumens - This term indicates how much light is produced by a particular bulb. A 75 watt standard bulb or an 18-25 watt CFL (spiral fluorescent) bulb will both give you about 1100 lumens but the CFL bulb uses one-third of the wattage. Think of the energy savings possible for your home and others around the world just by changing to CFL bulbs!
CFLs or compact fluorescent lamps are being met with mixed results. They do last very long and cost less over their lifetime. I know you are saying they are plain ugly and do not give off bright light. I can now get them for you encased in a bulb like the standard ones we all want. As far as their light output, there are now different “lumens” and “colors” available in CFLs to address every lighting need you may have.
Changes in our environments and lifestyles are never easy. It seems like we have used the standard incandescent light bulb in our homes forever. So, there is some learning and adapting to be done to understand all the new light bulb. This is the start for all of us on this important change that will affect global energy use. It is definitely a move in the right direction.

The New Light Bulbs

2011-03-17T08:20:00.000-07:00

There are 3 things you will need to know to select the best light bulb for your needs.Shades of Light has broken it down into understandable parts for everyone. All bulb cartons will have a "nutrition label" stating color, lumens and lumens per watt. Read on for the explanation.
Color- The familiar incandescent bulb gave a "warm white" and was 2700K. You can now get a "daylight" bulb that measures 5000K.
Lumens- Measures how much light is produced. For example to get 1600 lumens of light, you need a 100 watt incandescent bulb or a 25 watt LED bulb. Same brightness from both BUT much less energy used!
Lumens Per Watt- measures how much light you get for the energy consumed by a bulb. The 60 watts of energy used in an incandescent only gives 13 LPW-not very efficient. Contrast that with a 6 watt LED bulb that gives 100 LPW- much stronger light with much less power used.
Hope that helps all of us be more energy efficient!

The Fifth Wall

2011-03-10T11:06:00.000-08:00

I want everyone to start looking up. To the ceiling that is! For years we have come up with color schemes for the 4 side walls in our homes. We have agonized over using the right shade of beige or blue. Many sample paints have been put on our walls to be stared at and pondered about. I have done it too! My friends and family have seen many paint cards taped up to my walls over the years. I am willing to bet that there is a can of “Ceiling White” paint gathering dust in the dark recesses of your garage. That color was a staple for our home for years. Are you ready for a change? I want to get you thinking about putting the same efforts into ceiling color decisions that you put into the rest of your walls.
If you are building or remodeling, there are architectural details available for the ceiling. A tray ceiling is easy to add during home construction. It can be contrast painted to highlight its features. I have seen rectangle and octagon styles that definitely make a statement. Paint a strong accent color on the angled sides of the tray for a great look. Also, a decorative painter can create the “look” of a tray on any ceiling. It is lovely!
Decorative crown moldings can be added into the tray ceiling. They also go nicely along the top edges of any room. It creates a level of interest wherever you want to add to the look of your home... The different shapes of the moldings can be layered for a more dramatic look. Painted or stained, it is a dimensional detail for your décor.
Decorative medallions can be added to the center of a ceiling alone or around a light fixture. You can “fake it” by faux painting the “look” of a medallion or center design on any ceiling They can be painted in just about any color and could be made like the design on an oriental rug you may have in that room. How about making the ceiling look like you are inside a luxurious tent for a little girl’s room? If you can dream it, I know the perfect person to create it for you.
Even just a coat of paint in a color other than white makes for a great look. In a sunroom, you could paint the ceiling a soft blue, like the sky and feel more like you are outdoors. Dark paints used on the ceiling can add a great bit of drama to a room. Any wall color can be mixed with white to create a tint for the ceiling that is low risk.
Well there you have it. I hope that I have sparked your imagination to think about your ceilings and enhance your interior décor style. If nothing else, at least

give your ceiling a fresh coat of that “Ceiling White “paint and the whole room will brighten. Just in time for spring!

COLOR CONNECTION- PINK

2011-03-03T21:09:00.000-08:00

Pink has claimed the title of hot new color for 2011. It is the color of optimism and has the power to lift our spirits and push aside our worries and gloomy thoughts. Everyone could all use a dose of it to help feel better about life with all its ups and downs. We are seeing the whole spectrum pinks being used for fabrics, paints and accessories. There is a passion and a depth to pink. It is flattering for all skin tones, making people look good and feel good.
If you are still not convinced to take the plunge into pink as your main color, I have some ideas for adding it in small doses. Try a pink candle, pink clothes hangers for the closet or thumbtacks in pink. Write your notes with a pink pen. Change the knobs on your bedroom cabinets to a fresh shade of pink.
The whole point here is to just give it a try. Check out the huge variety of pinks available in a paint deck. There is bound to be one that is just right for you.
One more thing, last year’s turquoise is still a strong color in home décor and will work with pink. So go shopping and have no fear of coordinating the two colors.
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Accent on Color

2011-02-24T09:45:00.000-08:00

I am so proud to have one of my designs featured on the AVA Living premier designer website. It is a great honor.
The photograph is the feature listing on AVA.
This was a small wall in between the family room and the formal rooms that needed its own pizzaz to stand up with the other colors in the rooms. It became the accent wall in the room with a color taken from the rooftops shown in the painting. It was Behr Warm Terra Cotta. The rest of the walls facing it were in Behr River Bank. This little wall carried a big impact!

My Top Organization Tips for You

2011-01-26T20:36:00.000-08:00

They are everywhere this time of year, those colorful storage bins. They are the promise of an organized life and all we have to do is neatly pile our stuff inside, close the lid and put a label on the outside. That would be nice but it is not reality! It takes training to be organized and stay that way. It goes hand in hand with interior decorating and can help create spaciousness in your living space. So I have some great organization tips to pass along to you.
Create a desk/bill paying area in your home. Keep all your important and time sensitive mail and bills together there for ease of locating. You will find that if you have a designated area for those important things, you will not spend time searching around the house and risk losing your paperwork. If you can have a file cabinet with manila folders to hold all important documents in alphabetical order in the desk area, all the better for organizing. You can put a hook there for your house keys and never search for them again!
Everyone can find a small wall area in their home for organizing coats, hats and backpacks. You don’t need much space. Coat hooks are available at your local home improvement store and are very inexpensive. So, there is no excuse for not having your family’s coats, hats and etc. hanging neat and organized!
Don’t you just hate trying to find the right suitcase/travel totes when you need them? I got you covered. Store your suitcases one inside of the other when not in use. They will be easy to find all together and take up less space in your home. While you are at it, put your jewelry travel cases and other carry-on travel items with your luggage. Everything will be at your fingertips when you need travel.
This is one I love. Instead of throwing all your laundry together and waiting for laundry day to sort the wash, buy a hamper with divided bins. Then every time you add a piece of laundry to the appropriate bin of the hamper, your sorting is automatically done. Laundry day just got a whole lot easier!
Now, as ambitious as all this organization stuff may sound, I have a greater reason for doing this neatnik kind of work. The unseen benefits for me are a simpler, easier lifestyle with less work in a home that is definitely easy to care for. That is the ticket for me! Maybe the idea of less work sounds appealing to you too. As someone once said, life can be messy- let’s clean it up!

Interior Design Expert Memorial Wall

2011-01-20T20:45:00.000-08:00

This is the wall I designed for my client who wanted a memory area of her deceased brother's life. From the collection of pictures, mirrors, musical notes and Wall Words emerged a lovely tribute. The words were special to the client. Any words or quotes can be designed to fit the decor. It was perfect in every way for her.

2011 RESOLUTION: PUT YOUR HOME ON A DIET!

2011-01-13T12:23:00.000-08:00

2011 RESOLUTION: PUT YOUR HOME ON A DIET!

This is the time of the year when I wish all of you a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year while planning to start my annual diet. Don’t we all start dieting and eating better this time of year? Well I have a diet for you that will not deprive nor starve you. The work will be done by you but not to you! Make sense yet? We are going to put your home on a “diet”. This is a really good resolution for 2011.
One of the things that I notice about my home and that of many of my clients is that there is too much stuff in each room. Book collections, doll collections, and jars full of seashells are just some of the things that take over and clog up our decors. Many of us are collectors and savers of beautiful and unique treasures that we love to put on display for all to see. That in and of itself is great. Then we all know what happens next, our families and friends get wind of what we like and shower us with more of them on our birthdays and Christmases until we cry uncle! But we love all of them and try to show the whole collection off to the world that passes through our door. There is a problem with that. I will explain it by relating a little story about one of my clients. She had 2 china hutches in her dining room and lots of pretty dish sets and pewter/silver pieces. When I started moving them around for her, I discovered she had this lovely 3 piece silver tea service right in front of me that I had not seen due to the large amount of items in the cabinet. It was so beautiful but could be appreciated among all the other things. Hmm, sounds like the perfect example of the saying “less is more”.
So here is how your home diet works. Look at your stuff and collections as “calories”. Your job is to reduce the number of household “calories”. This will let you feature some of your treasures but not all of them at once. The pieces you leave out will stand out and probably garner some compliments from people who say they had never seen those pieces before! They were hidden by the excess stuff. The ones you put away for now can be rotated out at a later date and have their chance in the spotlight. There are added bonuses too- less for you to have to dust and the streamlined look in your rooms can be very soothing to the soul.
So once you are on a roll, keep it going in your closets and drawers. Your favorite charity would appreciate donations of stuff that result from this special household diet. The results are seen immediately in your rooms. Too bad our own personal diets don’t work so well and so quick!

Interior Design Swag Window Treatment

2011-01-04T10:29:00.000-08:00

Swags are a timeless and beautiful addition to any formal room in your home. The ones pictured here are where the swag is placed over ( on top of) the cascades. You can see the full, graceful effect of the swoop. This is that new peau de soie type fabric. The colors and the soft hand of it are just so graceful.

The Best Vintage Christmas Tree for a baby boomer

2010-12-27T13:05:00.000-08:00

You will love this video on my tree and the history of some of the ornaments and decorations we all grew up with in the 50's and 60's. The smell of the pine is just an added bonus. Enjoy

Versatile Dining Centerpiece

2010-12-02T07:17:00.001-08:00

How about some understated elegance for your holiday table that can be used year round? For Thanksgiving, I got some mirror squares, circles and ovals and placed them down the middle of my table. I purchased some fluted, short and tall clear glass votive holders and then the votives in white and put them on the mirrors. A little sticky tape on the underside held them in place in case the table got shook. I had some Thanksgiving type ribbon that I interwove with the votives. That's it! With the lights dimmed, the sparkle and the reflection from the candles was wonderful! I will get a lot of use out of those candles. Give it a try yourself- just remember safety first when it comes to using candles.

Design a Color Palette

2010-11-17T10:57:00.000-08:00

Hi again,
Here I am about to do another whole home and our first task is to pick the color palette for the home. Not that all rooms will be the same but the flow will be established. Green will be a large part of it and that is good because green is the easiest color to work with and so many other colors are good complements for it. Pictures coming when they are ready!

A Rainy, Stay Indoors Kind of Day

2010-11-04T09:46:00.000-07:00

It has been rainy,chilly and cloudy here in Richmond, Virginia for the last couple of days. I have lots of time to catch up on my work and do some interior decorating kind of thinking and planning for the upcoming Christmas season. Here is my checklist: 1. Keeping readers up to date on the latest vintage holiday tree plans on Facebook-check! 2. Offering discounts on our holiday decorating service for your Christmas tree, mantel and windows- check again! 3. Postcard and online reminders of the sale- check,check! 4.Have some colorful and cheery red and green plaids and stripe fabrics to make into winter slipcovers for furniture and pillows- another big check!
And in the meanwhile, I will continue to come up with great ideas for you. Stay tuned.

Decorator's Dream Fabric

2010-10-28T14:00:00.000-07:00

I am so in love with Kasmir's Grand Soiree fabric. Many years ago we had a similar fabric for window treatments that was the same as this beautiful medium weight satin weave with a soft luster finish-similar to peau de soie. Then they discontinued it!! Now it is back and better than ever with a fresh color palette and wonderful drapability for soft folds. The words "peau de soie" translate into "skin of silk". The photo shows it in a color called "slipper" but you really need to see it and hold it in your hand to get it!

Make Some Pomanders!

2010-10-20T09:20:00.000-07:00

Back in the "olden days" when taking baths and using deodorant was not always the norm, people had to do something to disguise the odors from themselves and others. One way was to make pomanders. Their sweet, citrus and spice scent usually did the trick and was easy enough for anyone to do! They were natural deodorizers and could be set on a table or if small enough, worn around the neck as a pendant. Today, we use them as a lovely centerpiece for our homes around holiday time. Here in Richmond Virginia, we like them due to the Colonial Williamsburg influence.They add to your interior design in an unusual way.
As you can see from the picture, they are usually oranges or lemons but crabapples and clementines have been used also. Get a skewer and pierce the skin with holes in a custom design or just overall lines. Fill the holes with whole cloves. Get decorative and tie twine or ribbons around the fruit and enjoy. A mix of cinnamon and other spices can be added to the fruit to preserve it for longer use. The fruit must sit in this mix for 5 weeks in the dark wrapped in tissue.
Also, try using 3 fruits and spell out the word "joy"-very unique.

Stop the Confusion - Get A Free Decorating Plan

2010-10-17T19:29:00.000-07:00

A common dilemma for many of my clients is to find a way to get started on their design projects. It all seems so overwhelming to them. Here I am to the rescue with a f*r*e*e* e-book on starting your decorating journey. It is written in a logical approach that puts decorating in perspective for everyone.
This is the same approach that I use with my clients and it is now available to you for f-r-e-e.
You need a priority list and a template to become organized on decorating your home. Visit the bookstore page on my website and request a copy for yourself.

OCTOBER IS WINDOW CORD SAFETY MONTH

2010-10-07T20:23:00.000-07:00

Every October, I climb upon my soapbox to write about this very important issue. As you are reading this, you can probably think of someone in your life that should become aware of window cord safety. Together we can all help protect our precious children.
Child safety begins at home. We do not often think of the windows in our home as potential danger spots. But the statistics are tragic and speak for themselves. Two hundred infants and children have died from window cord accidents since 1990. Parents are often the ones who unwittingly bring these dangers into their homes and even into their children’s bedrooms. In fact, we all have looked this dangerous killer right in the eye and not recognized it. For the third year in a row, I am working to raise awareness of the importance of window cord safety issues and bring to light the dangers and solutions available. Children and window cords don’t mix!
It only takes a few seconds for a youngster to strangle on window cords that are within their reach. Think how often cribs are placed by windows. It makes it all too easy for a baby to grasp the dangling window treatment cord and roll over wrapping it around their necks. Active toddlers and older children are climbers and can accidentally become tangled and caught in window cords. But know that there are things you can do right now to create a safer environment in your home.
The Window Covering Safety Council recommends only using cordless window blinds and shades in young children’s sleeping areas. These are popular, clean and streamlined window treatment designs that use batteries, wands or spring-loaded mechanisms to replace the cords. All pre-2001 window treatments in children’s rooms should be replaced immediately with today’s safer products. Doing this also gets rid of the lead dust danger prevalent in pre-2001 vinyl mini blinds.
Active youngsters like to explore their bedrooms and play areas. Move all cribs, beds and furniture in their rooms that can be used for climbing to windowless walls whenever possible.
Make sure all window treatments with cords in your home are out of children’s reach by keeping them short or having them permanently anchored to the wall with a cord cleat. Lock cords into position whenever they are lowered partially or all the way to the sill.
Today’s safer window treatment products meet child safety standards. There are free cord-retrofit kits and window safety information available to consumers from the Window Covering Safety Council to install on pre-2001 blinds and shades that are in your home. They may be obtained by contacting them at www.windowcoverings.org. and going to their “How to Retrofit” area.
It is a great idea to use caution and choose safety for our children every time. Learn what you should and do what you can. Let’s make “home sweet home” a safe haven for our younger generation.

Create a Fireplace Focal Point

2010-09-30T07:44:00.000-07:00

I have just taken on a design project that includes creating a prominence for the fireplace to make it the center of the room. As the work progresses, I will be posting comments and photos for you to follow the transformation as it goes along.
I have always loved to see a fireplace show off its beauty and design in a room's overall decor. It does not have to be of the style or size like the one at Biltmore-you can drive your car right into that hearth! There are lots of small changes you can make to add to your fireplace. Photo here had framing, mirror and spotlight added to create its focus. Take a look.

Who Thinks This Stuff Up Anyway??

2010-09-23T11:47:00.000-07:00

Every fall and spring I receive my assortment of new fabric books for draperies and upholstery. And with each new shipment, I sit and wonder where on earth they came up with the color choices they feature that always have crazy names. There is no genie sitting on a tasseled pillow dreaming up the future colors with fancy names for home design. The Pantone Color Institute is the global authority on colors and future trends in fashions. Their determinations are formulated as a result of much observation of nature and its beauty in the world as well as any influences that will impact our world in the future. Some of the factors that influence color direction include socioeconomic issues, technology, lifestyles and entertainment. The needs, moods, fantasies and aspirations of consumers are part of the emotional component of color.
So how about a heads up on some of the color trends they have identified? Three of their most popular color palettes are named Greenmarket, Gatherings and Galaxy. Let’s see if you can draw on these groupings to inspire you with color ideas for your home direct from the authority! You will be right on with colors. You can get more information from their website www.pantone.com.
Greenmarket color palette, as the name suggests, evolved from the inviting colors one would see at a roadside produce stand. Those products are an important part of our need to eat healthier and have a healthier lifestyle. They are the “produce colors” of Tomato Puree, Super Lemon, Apple Green, Chutney and Paprika. These Greenmarket colors are the hues that appeal to both the eyes and the taste buds. They are the beauty of nature and the need of consumers to live better.
The Gatherings palette is inspired by the continent of Africa with its vast open spaces and very unique regional artifacts and handicrafts. These are the colors of creative boldness and include Sand, Oasis, Lemon Curry and Copper Coin.
The Galaxy color collection is a reflection of the harmony of hues of the mysterious night sky. Earth colors in the backdrop of the night sky include Greener Pastures and Peridot. They sit contrasted against the violets, silvers and smoky blues of the sky. Turquoise and orchid enhance the sky while radiant golds capture the rays of the warmth and energy of the sun.
These three color palettes are a snapshot of life and the global atmosphere that we are all a part of in 2010. They are easy to identify with and create a strong level of comfort for us. Try them on for size and see for yourself!

REALLY FREE AND ALMOST FREE DECOR TIPS

2010-08-26T06:25:00.000-07:00

REALLY FREE AND ALMOST FREE DECORATING IDEAS

In these belt-tightening days, I want to do my part to help with economical decorating tips you will love.

5 No Cost Decorating Changes You Can Make Now:
Play with moving your furniture into different rooms in your home. Move your accessories around from room to room. You will be surprised at how well that works. Your furnishings will have a whole new life.
Get out one of your pretty dishes and put it in your guest powder room to hold fancy soaps and tissues. They will feel so special.
Wrap and knot a decorative scarf around a throw pillow for a decorative look on your sofa. Do not be afraid of pattern and color for the pillows, they are small dashes of accent color.
How about folding up your bedspread and putting it away for awhile? There are many fancy trimmed top sheets that you can use in its place. It will be a breath of fresh air for your bedroom.
Stack a couple of large hardcover books under your table lamps. It is very chic and increases the light and brightness in your rooms.

5 Low Cost Decorating Changes:
Buy a can of paint. It is more of a labor cost than a monetary one. Choose to do one wall or whole room, either way it makes an impact. Maybe you can start with your powder room.
Purchase new bathroom fixtures – towel bar, robe hook, toilet tissue holder, etc. They are available at local home improvement centers and in most cases are easily installed. I love the variety of finishes and styles!
A can of spray paint is an inexpensive way update your picture frames. There are metallic and stone finishes available to help you create high fashion décor. This works on mirror frames too.
Buy new lampshades for your existing lamps. Experiment with new shapes, colors and trimmings for a fresher look. Don’t forget your chandelier shades also. Banding and tassels add decorative touches and make your lampshades very unique.
Colorful decorative throw rugs can make nice room decorating changes. Use some different weaves and brighter tones. Put them in the kitchen, bathroom and under the coffee table.
There you have it. It is possible to do some decorating on the cheap with good results. I hope it has given you some inspiration for your home. Get to it!

My Window Treatment In the Spotlight

2010-08-04T10:28:00.000-07:00

This week one of my window treatments was selected to be in the Ava Living Designer Spotlight. I would love for you to check it out on Ava website and I invite you to browse the site.
This photo is an example of one of the ways I can create a design for your unusual window shapes!

Don't You Love Window Seats?

2010-07-28T08:23:00.000-07:00

Grab your book and curl up for reading. I love this kitchen window seat. The custom made cushions ensure your comfort and the bright colors warm the space.

Thoughts on Recycling and Carpooling

2010-07-21T12:05:00.000-07:00

Who among us is not concerned with saving the earth and our way of life? Interior decorating can help in 2 ways!
1. Recycle your gently used furnishing and decor items. Consignment and thrift shops are flourishing today. Your discards will be new to someone else. They will find a new home that is not in the local landfill. That is a win-win.
2. We have joined with Nu-Ride, a company that offers rewards for carpooling, biking, taking a bus etc. We have a nice meaty discount on their site that can be earned through the miles you rack up not taking your personal car to work! How nice is that? Be sure to check them out!!

Easy Decorating Idea

2010-07-14T09:25:00.000-07:00

I love ideas that we can all use for unique design. From the Better Homes and Gardens July 2010 issue , an inexpensive rectangular tablecloth 60" x 90" was remade into a tailored skirt for an average size round end table.
Cut the short ends of the rectangle to your round table height plus about 1 inch for a seam. Add even more extra if you want the skirt to puddle on the floor.
From the center of the cloth, cut your circle 1" larger than the table top diameter.
Pin the skirt sides to the top and sew up. Any extra width can be box pleated or cut to fit at the top. See the magazine for complete details and give it a try. Great idea!

July 4th Decorating

2010-07-07T10:30:00.000-07:00

The neighborhood door decorating contest for the 4th was a lot of fun! We won for most red, white and blue. I made red and white tieback curtains. I also carried it on to the front lamppost with a version of Uncle Sam. His lovely beard and hair are from a dollar store mop! Can't wait till next year! Enjoy the pictures.

A Few Ideas for the Master Bedroom

2010-06-30T17:49:00.000-07:00

This bedroom I designed for my busy professional clients has some good tips everyone can use to create a retreat from the hectic lifestyles we all have.
Notice the wall color. That is the biggest use of color in any room. Shades of turquoise were used that are very tranquil and peaceful. That is how we started. The fabric is an understated stripe-nothing busy or too active-great for a bedroom where you want to relax. There was no bedskirt used to keep the look very clean and straight lined. But we did go all out with lots of soft decorative pillows. That is in keeping with the simple luxury of the bedroom. The lamps allow for nighttime reading in bed that is easy on the eyes because they are at a good height.
The result is a retreat from the world! What can you apply to your master bedroom?

Let's Talk Floors

2010-06-28T07:22:00.000-07:00

What to use especially in a kitchen? We all want the best of both worlds - a really nice look with lots of durability to handle all the household traffic, even the family dog. I will help you know what you need to look for when you are floor shopping for all your rooms
Linoleum or vinyl floors are by far the most popular. They wash up nicely and leave no traces of most common household spills. There are many colors available and some styles even mimic the look of tile and marble. So far so good! Here is what you need to know if you are considering vinyl. The different grades of vinyl will have different depths of the pattern. Inexpensive grades will show the black backing where there is wear or where a gouge has occurred. Higher grades of vinyl have more depth of the pattern so as wear and tear occurs; there are more layers of the pattern underneath before the backing layer starts to show. Good subflooring is a necessity to avoid cracks and bumps. This type of flooring is expensive to install properly but will ensure you many years of use.
Hardwoods and laminates are becoming very popular for kitchens as well as the rest of the home. The look of wood can warm a kitchen and goes with all styles. Hardwoods have all the wonderful variations and grains nature provides. They must be properly sealed by a professional for use in the kitchen and have their own variety of cleaning and care products. This is a value added product for your home. Laminates are a faux wood with a huge variety of widths and stains available. They install right over an existing floor. The one thing you must be careful of is dropping blunt and sharp objects on the laminate. It will leave a gouge. Clean up is a breeze and the look is really nice!
Let’s talk about maintenance for your flooring choice. Remember that grit from outdoors sticks to the soles of shoes and can be very abrasive to a floor. Use lots of washable, rubber-backed rugs at all entrances to your home to catch most of that grit. High traffic areas in the home benefit from rugs also. Everyone go and check now to see if you are using leftovers from wall to wall carpeting as little rugs. If you find it, get rid of it as soon as possible! The hard woven backing of carpet is abrasive to all floor types, even carpeted ones.

Let's Talk a

2010-06-28T07:17:00.000-07:00

Highlight an Area in your home

2010-06-17T10:24:00.000-07:00

This was a great little wall that looked into the family room and was just begging for a special treatment. The artwork had wonderful clay tiles on the roofs and in the accents. So we painted the wall in a bright clay called Warm Terra Cotta from Behr. The look is knock-out. Look around your home for that special area- such as the wall around a bay window- that would look good with an accent paint.

Every Man Needs His Space

2010-06-08T11:21:00.000-07:00

So often when designing our interior spaces, the choices in styles, colors, fabrics, and furnishings are geared towards the woman of the home. With Father’s Day coming up, this is the perfect time to discuss designing spaces that appeal to men.
Men often feel pampered and comfortable in spaces that are linked in some way to their interests or hobbies. Some people call this using a “theme”. Working with a theme offers a great starting place. Choose the theme elements carefully and deliberately so as not to go overboard with the interpretation of the theme in his space. Use the “feeling “and “sense” of the theme without being too obvious. Do not repeat the theme everywhere. Just add subtle cues. Here’s how:
Let’s say for example that your husband (or dad) loves to refurbish old cars. One way to work with this hobby design would be to place within the space a major piece related to old cars. This could be an attractive and well-made model car on a stand, or a beautifully framed picture of a classic car.
You would then take design cues for the color and texture of the rest of the room from this major accent piece. If for example, the framed art had beige, blue, and red as the main colors, use those colors elsewhere in the room. You could paint the walls in the space a deeper version of the beige. Add a sofa upholstered in a neutral brown or beige. Leather works so beautifully in masculine spaces. You could also place a dark blue or red accent chair in the space, again picking up the colors from the picture. The key to great seating in a man’s space is comfort over beauty (although you CAN and should have both).Next, use various hues of the beiges, blues and reds from the picture as throw pillows for the sofa. This adds pattern, texture, and warmth to a room cooled by leather.
Finally, add one or two accessory pieces based on the hobby or object of interest without going overboard. He will both be very happy in his new spaces.

What i've Noticed Lately

2010-05-06T19:43:00.000-07:00

I once took a personality test that asked the question:"When you go in to a room do you notice the furnishings and decor?". I do not know why that was there but, it is so very true of me. Lately, I have been seeing some absolutely wonderful wall coverings. They appeared to be made out of a stone veneer. Some of them had a coppery finish to them. Like nothing I had ever seen before-just beautiful. Look around restaurants and hotels and see what you can find for yourself!

How About a Free Designer Room Review?

2010-04-29T20:50:00.000-07:00

http://www.avaliving.com/myava.php
The above link is your connection to a free room review. When you get to the page on the link, just scroll down and click on Designer Room Review. I will look over your room from a picture and evaluate its positive and need improvement aspects. It will be your personal interior decorator room review. All at no cost to you. All you need to do is upload a picture for me! Give it a try, you will love it.

Paint Makes it Pop

2010-04-09T20:16:00.000-07:00

Decorative architecture and wall art can be highlighted with paint accents in a room. In the photos, the main color of the room is a mossy green with terra cotta as an accent color. The narrow wall features a wonderful oil painting with terra cotta roofs on the homes. Painting that wall in the terra cotta makes it turn into a focal point of the room. The colors are a perfect blend for that wall. You can't help but stare at it!
The colors are Behr paints: "Warm Terra Cotta" and "River Bank" in an eggshell finish.

Create your own Rug

2010-04-02T20:10:00.000-07:00

You can design your own area rugs for a very reasonable price. Flor rug tiles fit together with sticky dots that can be repositioned for unlimited styles. Complement your decor with ease. Individual carpet tiles lift out of the rug and can be washed or replaced as needed. What is better than that? I love the versatility of these rug tiles. Be your own rug designer. Here is just one example for you. Give me your needs and I can create a rug for your home!

Color Scheme Accents

2010-03-29T18:24:00.000-07:00

You all know I am very big on sharing interior decorating ideas that everyone can use in their homes. Those are the best kind of of tips.One of my favorite tips is painting the backwalls of cabinets and shelves a bright pop of color that accents your color scheme. Here is my corner cabinet. The backwall has been painted a deep red. Before it was a dark stain and looked like I had a "black hole" in my family room. Now it has some bright attention getting color and my blue and white pieces really pop against it. Deep colors require a coat of primer before applying your color of choice. My cabinet took three coats of paint. I only needed a quart.

My Favorite Color Scheme

2010-03-18T07:18:00.000-07:00

I have always loved the blue and white china with a deep red color. It is traditional with a fresh brightness to the combination that is very appealing.The attached photo is of the wall in my kitchen. It is painted red on the bottom half and there are pieces of wall art and china in the red, and blue/white on the top half. My husband made the wall mounted shelves above for displaying accessories. I will soon have a photo of my corner cabinet. I have repainted the back wall of the cabinet in the deep red. The pieces I use in the cabinet are all styles of blue/white. See it in next week's post.

Less is More--Really!!

2010-03-11T18:59:00.000-08:00

Today I worked with a client on her family room design. She had two wood hutches with beautiful plates and dishes. There was way too many dishes on display at once and it was hard to see some of the really unique pieces on there. We started removing some of the excess pieces and put white placemats under other pieces to highlight them. I found she had a beautiful blue and white tea set there that was lost in the clutter. Now it is the central highlight of the hutch. Lesson here- having "less" pieces on the hutch made the others that were left "more" noticeable.

Home Decorating goes Green

2010-03-04T19:05:00.000-08:00

We have a strong commitment to the environment. It is a work in progress. One of our newest fabric collections “Footprints” contains certified organic cottons that were fabricated leaving a minimal effect on the environment. It is a great assortment and very environmentally conscious.
Give a 2nd life to your home decor items. Spray paint a light fixture with some of the new modern finishes instead of throwing it out. Accent tables that have seen better days can be repainted in a new color. How about some new knobs? Add some decorative trim wood to have a fancy new look. Be adventuresome and not afraid. You were going to get rid of it anyway, so try some different ways to update it.It is a whole new life for your furniture.

New Fabrics and the Resurgence of Draperies

2010-02-25T07:42:00.000-08:00

I have started to receive my semi-annual group of new fabrics. Faux silks have just exploded with beautiful lusterous solids and embroderies. Sheers have beaded swirls. I always embrace the new selections to show my clients and offer them the latest.

More on Painting your Walls

2010-02-17T20:30:00.000-08:00

There is one great group of interior wall paints that you have just got to check out! Ralph Lauren has a line of paints that create either a metallic, a shimmer, a suede or a rock texture finish to them. They are so nice and the only thing you have to do different is to apply them with a different paint roller. Nothing complicated about the applications but the look is so unique and comes in a variety of colors.The company of Ralph Lauren has a sign-up for designers to get paint chips and other samples. I would really like to have them to show.You have to see them to believe them. All paints are latex.

Beautiful Space Saving for Baths

2010-02-11T21:58:00.000-08:00

Ever since we traveled to Europe a few years ago to see my son, I have had my sights set on what is called a "bath screen". In my bath, there is a sheetrock and tile wall for the shower. It is so obstructive. I want the wall taken out and the bath screen put in. Being glass it does the same job as a solid wall but it does not appear to take up any room. It appears very spacious! Photo here shows the idea of it.

What's Up Now

2010-02-03T10:39:00.000-08:00

The new year has gotten started and with it many people make resolutions,goals and the plan to work them.Same here! I want to share my goals with all of you. They will be of great benefit to all of us.
You will see lots more of me in blogs and emails. I've gotten a decorator designed new website.It is chock full of information and very easy to navigate. I want to make all my information easy for you to find and benefit from. Bottom line- I will be serving you better in 2010. I already am liking this-hope you will too!
A little bit of the home decor forecast for 2010 for you! The economy has cast a gray pall over all aspects of our lives. We long for the bright, warm tropical escapes to help us getaway from it all. Turquoise is the color that represents that. It is peaceful like cool blue waters and healing like the green of nature. Wear it and show it in your personal life. Let it be a bright spot for you this year!

Window Treatments 101

2010-01-28T10:57:00.000-08:00

It is a good time to review 2 of the basics of window treatments for you.
1. Fullness= This is having more fabric on the window either in pleats or gathers and not just flat fabric on a rod. Fullness is a good thing! It keeps whatever you are putting at your window from looking skimpy. Custom sheers are made at 3 to 1 fullness. That means if you have a 50" wide window the workroom will use 150" worth of fabric for that width. Custom draperies are usually done at 2 1/2 to 1 fullness. So if you use ready-made treatments, be ready to add extra pieces to get enough fullness on your window. Some ready-made treatments are 1 1/2 to 1 fullness- very skimpy.
2. The Look= This one is easy and often overlooked. No one would take a man's shirt out of the wrapper and put it on. It has folds and wrinkles! The same with your window treatments. Before you hang them, make sure they are pressed and looking good. My installer steams and dresses down every fabric treatment we put up. Now you know that you have to do the same!

Look at the wonderful fullness put in the 2 drapery styles shown here. That is how they all should look!

Another Thought About Draperies

2010-01-21T10:59:00.000-08:00

I saw some drapery panels with attached valances that had an initial monogrammed on the valance. It was so uniquely beautiful. I would love to try that! Just another idea for drapery treatments I am passing along to everyone.

To Do Draperies or Not??

2010-01-21T10:30:00.000-08:00

I am getting this question from my clients more frequently. It would seem that the era of minimalist treatments at the window is slowly changing. The styles and designs from my workroom reflect that emerging trend. I love them! There are many styles available that are not your mother's pinch pleated antique satin draperies. The look has been modernized for today's homes. More at the window also translates to better coverage and energy savings. Lots of air exchange takes place at even the best of windows. Draperies help stop that and look beautiful also.I think this is a win-win for everyone! So next time you are contemplating a change of window treatments, consider 21st century style draperies.

A Few of My Favorite Things

2009-12-03T08:49:00.000-08:00

I hang my “Christmas swags”. It seems I can never get interior décor out of my mind. Even my Christmas decoration names sound like window treatment styles! All they are is just 3 strands of Christmas décor beads that I drape softly over the top of my windows-right on top of the draperies and then loop the ends over the rods. The color and the glimmer of the beads is beautiful. The beaded garland is available where Christmas decorations are sold. Strands of evergreen garland or ornaments strung on ribbons also make great swags. Try your hand at making your own Christmas window treatments.
You will just love this beautiful and unusual decoration from “across the pond” in Europe for your table. Get a group of 6-7 Christmas balls and remove the top loop part. Put a small artificial single flower down in the balls with a sticky dot on the bottom of the ball. It becomes a round vase for the flower. On a sturdy plate, spread out some stone or glass chips to cover. Use sticky dots on the bottom of the glass balls to anchor them on the plate amid the stones. A few tips on creating this look- choose a color theme for the balls, flowers and stones, usually one floral spray will suffice for the arrangement and use your imagination to come up with different materials or garland that you can nestle the balls into. A picture is worth a thousand words, so here is a completed one for you to use as a guide.
I love decorating- whether I am designing for a client’s home or creating a beautiful mantel for the holiday season. That’s me! I’m cooking up more design goodies for you. See you in the next issue. Always remember to decorate with joy and happiness.

Make a unique wreath this year!

2009-11-24T07:49:00.000-08:00

I am a wreath lover! I use varieties of them year round. So naturally when I saw this DIY wreath in my CB2 catalog, I was hooked! The possibilities are endless.Instructions can be found at http://blog.cb2.com/?s=DIY+wreath. The size you want your wreath to be determines the number of ornaments you need. Other supplies are a coat hanger and ribbon.

As you read about this wreath, consider also that you can use other types of ornaments or decorations and achieve the same result. You could use sleigh bells, angel ornaments, Santas etc.

New Idea for Christmas

2009-11-24T07:34:00.000-08:00

This time of year I am poring over the holiday catalogs and Christmas idea magazines that come my way. This peaked my interest and I had to pass it along to you!

I have found a hardwood stocking holder at Improvements. It is very nice looking and will not mar your beautiful mantel or get in the way of your garland. No nails needed either! It is the best of both worlds. It can be found at http://www.improvementscatalog.com/.

Holiday Design 2009

2009-11-10T11:50:00.000-08:00

It is just around the corner and I want to make all of you the stress-free host or hostess. These are things I do in my home this time of year and I know they work very well.
Lets start with the table. You will probably need extra chairs. Use what you have around the house and tie them together with decoration. Festive ribbons and fabrics can be tied to the back of the chairs. Small grapevine wreaths also work well. Just like that you will have a coordinated table look.
Keep the table clears for your guests and their plates by using a sideboard or countertop to set your dishes and platters on. Let them serve themselves buffet style.
More holiday tidbits to follow later!
Linda

Learn Color for Your Interiors

2009-10-30T20:06:00.000-07:00

I have just finished teaching classes on the keys to decorating with color. It is such an important concept and everyone got something out of the class. The class format is available as an e-book on my website titled 'The Keys to Decorating with Color". At $4.99 it is cheaper than class tuition and it packed with information. Give it a try. I want everyone to be armed with color help to make their interiors the best they can be!

Window Treatments Designed to Save Energy

2009-10-16T18:38:00.000-07:00

Dare I say it? We are marching forward into Winter 2009 and the icy temperatures
that come along with the season. Uggh!! Along with that, energy costs have continued to be one of the heavyweights of every household budget living through the current economy! It is time to start looking closer at how the proper type of window treatments can help reduce your utility expenses. This is a key point and I am going to shout it from the rooftops. Window treatments can have both beauty and brains (so to speak). Energy efficiency at your windows is a step in the “green” direction also.
Engineers speak in terms of R-value in reference to the energy efficiency of any given product. It also applies to window treatments. R-value is defined as a product’s resistance to transferring heat between two environments of different temperatures. Higher R-value numbers are better at keeping out cold.
While energy efficient windows that do not allow any air leaks are better than older windows, there is still too much energy being transferred between the outdoors and your rooms.
Here is what you need to remember to help beef up your window treatment energy efficiency-layers. The more layers you have at the window, the better. Each layer adds its own R-value to the overall total, as do the air pockets created between them. That is a huge boost! For example, wood blinds could be the first layer, draperies the second and a valance the fourth. The wood of the blinds is a natural insulator and your first line of defense. There are good air pockets between the blinds and draperies that also help cut down on energy transfer. There are thermal drapery linings fabricated with the latest technology. Your valance should have a dust cap cover on it to prevent air leakage above the window and to help keep dust off your draperies and blinds. Hey, there is another plus, keeping your draperies cleaner longer! Each layer that you have added to your windows, helps slow down the transfer of energy.
Now, for all of you who just love the view out of your window and do not like to have it obstructed at all by window treatments, you can get in on this too. I always recommend cellular honeycomb shades for my clients who like open, airy looks at their windows. In the raised position, they are so compact you can barely see them. In the lowered position, their cells are more like “layers” or air pockets on the window with a significantly higher R-value compared to other treatments. This is a great solution for all those “open window view” aficionados among us. What’s not to like? There are a variety of colors and textures to suit every décor.
Armed with all this information, you can go out and get energy efficient, beautiful window treatments and keep your budget happy with the savings that are sure to follow!

Space Saving with Style

2009-10-01T11:18:00.001-07:00

You know me, always looking for the unique and one of a kind for my great clients. I have discovered some interesting small space storage ideas from a company called Topdeq.

The Stretto (with the red coat) is a slim coatrack that you can use in any combination of the coatrack pieces or the mirror pieces. Use 1,2,or more to get what works best for your entry. I love the look!

The cube boxes come in different finishes and can be stacked up to 4 high,staggered as in the picture or used in any combination. More and more possibilities!

Linda

Window Cord Safety Month

2009-09-17T10:16:00.000-07:00

I am jumping ahead a little bit with my last post on window cord safety but the topic is so important that I needed to get the word out.
Graber, a major window blind manufacturer is also offering a $25.00 rebate for every blind you purchase with the safety upgrades. That is a good deal for you and a great safety bonus for your loved ones. Let me know if I can help you.

Children and Window Cord Safety

2009-09-17T10:09:00.000-07:00

Parents and parents-to-be have a million things on their minds when it comes to raising their children. But every parent needs to be aware of child safety, and this begins in the home.
Children’s rooms are the best place to start. According to child-safety experts, the typical focal points for decorating a child’s room – windows, cribs and bedding – also hold the greatest potential danger to a child’s safety.
To make sure your child’s room is a safe one, consider the following:
Window Areas: Never place a crib, playpen, bed or any type of low-standing furniture near a window. In exploring their surroundings, young children can accidentally fall through an open window or window screen, or become tragically entangled in a nearby window cord. Whenever possible, place cribs and furniture on a non-windowed wall.
The Window Covering Safety Council recommends you make the right choice and only use cordless window products in young children’s bedrooms and play areas. Owners and renters should replace all window coverings in the home made before 2001 with today’s safer products.
However, if you wish to keep your older window coverings (i.e., purchased before 2001), visit our ‘How To Retrofit’ at www.windowcoverings.org/safety_design_tips.html section for instructions on how to retrofit these products'

Product Innovations:
When it comes to choosing window treatments most consumers consider color, style, and even privacy. If young children are around the home, then cord control should be another important factor in selecting your window treatments.
Although today’s window fashions come with built-in cord-safety features, the Window Covering Safety Council believes cordless window coverings are the best choice for use in children’s bedrooms and any area of the home where children spend time playing.
In fact, cordless designs are rapidly gaining favor with consumers and decorators because of their “clean” look and streamlined design. Most traditionally corded window fashions are available in “cordless” styles through the use of spring-loaded mechanisms, battery- or motor-operated lift controls, or simple wand pulls. When combined with the scores of new fashion looks in today’s window coverings, consumers can pick from a wide choice of high-style cordless designs.

Always a special on at Wall Words

2009-09-10T12:06:00.000-07:00

Every week there are Wall Word favorites on sale. Right now we have:
HP141 - Come...Gather...Give Thanks.
The font is 3” Redonda, the color is Matte Dark Brown, the approximate length is 43” and the price is only $25!!
We had such a big response to one of our Bonus Weekly Specials last month that we decided to repeat it! The Bonus Weekly Special is:

The Family Special, which features the family name in 3” size font and the year established in 2” size font.
The color is Matte Black ONLY and you choose the font style! The price is ONLY $20! The Family Special makes a great gift for newlyweds, anniversaries, new babies, etc., too. The Family Special looks really neat in Etched Glass vinyl installed on a mirror, too. Who is ready for Halloween? Wall Words can help you! Since Halloween in on a Saturday this year, you know there will be lots of opportunities to decorate. Wall Words has a great selection of Halloween items in our Halloween category, so we are putting all items in that category on sale for 15% off!! You can choose from our 7 Scary Words, witches, ghosts, all sorts of fun items! You can install your Halloween Wall Words on your windows

Look at what you can do with Wall Words!

2009-09-10T11:39:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to show you 2 of my latest Wall Word designs. You can do whatever you would like or whatever you want your walls to say.

The church chose a Bible quote and I was able to have it custom made for them.

The Christmas tree on the wall is going to an area nursing/assisted living facility as it is attached flat to the wall and is no tripping hazard. It is great for small living areas that do not have a lot of space for holiday decorating.

I am on Twitter now!

2009-09-02T18:54:00.000-07:00

Follow me on Twitter for fresh and current updates about the decorating and design world.
Check it out at www.twitter.com/LindaMHunt

Outdoor Rooms and Loved Ones

2009-09-02T18:47:00.000-07:00

Have you been trying to get the family together? I have attended family and high school reunions this year and just love keeping up with family and friends!
Setting up exterior kitchens and cozy outside seating groupings almost demand gathering and entertaining. Today’s outdoor furnishings and fabrics are sturdier and more beautiful than ever. Play around with sophisticated sinks and outside kitchen grills, lovely accessories including framed art and mirrors, elaborate planters, sconces, and even outdoor lighting fixtures, to make being outside more special than ever.
Go Neutral on seating pieces and tables (tan, ecru, gray, and deep green for example), and leave room for lots of color in your gardens, on your outdoor soft fashions, and in your yard art and accessories, letting them take center stage.

$8.00 Per Hour Interior Decorating Consultations

2009-08-27T14:42:00.000-07:00

I have poured my decorating heart and soul into my e-books. They contain the same design principles that I would give to my clients in a consult. Those run $70.00 per hour. But the e-books will give it all to you for $7.99 each. This is a great value and brings interior decorating to everyone. Check them out at my bookstore on www.richmonddecorator.com. The topics are relevant and cover design issues commonly faced. I wanted to make the information very timely and helpful for everyone. Try it!

Vacation

2009-08-27T13:59:00.000-07:00

I just came from a relaxing and refreshing 8 day vacation at the beaches of South Carolina. This is my chance to read and take in the sun and surf. I just finished reading The First Family by David Balducci. It was wonderfully absorbing and a great mental escape.
Great and unusual plants and vegitation there. The palm trees actually had fruit on them. I did a small watercolor painting of that. Very interesting!

Interior Decorating for Everyone in America

2009-08-12T15:10:00.000-07:00

You know the saying " a pot in every home..." ? Well my saying is "interior decorating for every home and window in America"! We all go to the store and get curtains, bedding, knick knacks etc. to adorn our abodes in our favorite styles and colors. The intention is very good-BUT- many times the final result is almost there but not quite! The window treatments could have been hung differently for a great look, the artwork is great but too small for the wall etc- you get the idea.
It is my goal to help every American residence achieve beautiful home decor be it custom or ready made. It can be done and the results are great.
That was the purpose of my e-book "Window Treatments-Ready Made -How to measure, fit and buy them" and is available from my website www.richmonddecorator.com for $7.99.

Virtual Decorating

2009-08-04T10:10:00.000-07:00

Want to see how your design plans will look in your room before committing to it? I love this! I can take a photo of your room as it currently is and put the total redesign on top of it so you can see it. Paint, window treatments, carpets and furniture can all be done virtually.
So many of my clients cannot visualize and this is the perfect solution.
And, furniture placement and floor plans can be done also.
You can do one room at a time or the whole house and implement the plan as you are able.
Call me if you want to give this a try.

Ready for my class

2009-07-20T14:09:00.000-07:00

In the fall I will be teaching an adult ed class on color and decorating. I have gotten all my materials and feel very ready. Quite a bit of the material come out of my book "Color Made Easy" and its' free bonus books . Good information for just $7.99 and a lot cheaper than hiring a decorator by the hour for the same info.
Go to www.richmonddecorator.com and click on the bookstore to find out about all my books and how to order them. You will be very happy you did.

Color is So Important in Your Interior Decorating!

2009-07-16T21:17:00.000-07:00

I am taking refresher classes on color in interior design. It can really make or break a room's design. I want to pass along to you some of the "must have" info before you make all your decorating decisions!
The 60/30/10 formula is still the gold standard. Basically, it means use your main color 60%, your secondary color 30% and a dash of accent color in 10% of the room. It always works! See how your rooms stack up against this proportional formula.
There are lots of great color schemes out there. What are some of your favorites? How do they make you feel?

My brochure cover

2009-06-24T19:14:00.000-07:00

When I needed to come up with a cover for my brochure, I chose a picture of one of my treatments that is beautiful and unique. It is a window style that many of my clients struggle with to decorate. Hope it gives you an idea for your own high style windows!

Small Space Decorating

2009-06-24T19:11:00.000-07:00

I have just finished reading the newest issue of House Beautiful Magazine with its feature on small space decorating ideas and suggestions. Those who know me know I live in my own small space and have written an e-book on this topic I have lived with for years. If you get a chance to get a copy and read this feature, I know you will enjoy it. We all have a small space somewhere that needs help.

Thrifty Decorating Tips

2009-06-16T07:36:00.000-07:00

The economy may be stale but you interior decorating can stay fresh! Read on for some great no-cost suggestions.

1.Move your furniture to different rooms in your home for a new look. Do the same with your accessories.
2.Get out one of your pretty dishes and put it in your powder room to hold fancy soaps and tissues.
3.Wrap and knot a fancy scarf around a throw pillow for a decorative look.
4.Use a fancy sheet in place of the spread for a fresh look on the bed.
5.Stack a few large hardcover books under your table lamps to change the light and brightness in your rooms. Be sure they are wide enough books and keep it to about 2 books for safety.

Interior Decorating Seminar

2009-06-10T11:30:00.000-07:00

Next Tuesday, the 16th is the first in a series of interior design seminars. This is the free one over the phone. Click here to register; http://richmonddecorator.com/teleseminar.
Great fun and lots of interior decorating info.
See you then.

Environmentally Conscious Fabrics

2009-06-10T11:20:00.000-07:00

I now carry a collection of drapery/upholstery fabrics that are made of organic cotton and blends. This material was fabricated with minimal effect on the environment. The group is called "Footprints" and the assortment is beautiful. Using these fabrics for your custom window treatments helps all of us and Mother Earth.

Interior Design Seminar for Everybody

2009-06-04T07:36:00.000-07:00

This seminar will be given over the phone-you all can join in where ever you are!

You have to register to get the phone number and the password to use to join in on the call. It is a proven formula of the steps to take for your decorating and redecorating projects. Here is the link:http://richmonddecorator.com/teleseminar

Green Is "In"

2009-06-02T11:05:00.000-07:00

Here at Creatively Yours Custom, we firmly believe in green decorating to help our planet and environment. It is not about a green color choice rather it has to do with using eco-friendly products in design. To introduce this practice let’s start with a few simple choices we all can make.
♣Purchase organic cotton bath towels available at most major stores. Cotton is a renewable source and when grown organically, uses no chemicals. You help preserve the soil and get a really soft towel. Cottonis also biodegradable.
♣Bamboo makes a wonderful wood floor. It is a renewable resource and does not use formaldehyde or give off toxic odors in your home. You’ll all breathe better!
♣We all have old draperies, bedspreads, etc. sitting around the house waiting to go to the landfill. You could donate them to shelters, Humane Societies, veterinary clinics to name a few. Think reusable not disposable.

No Cost Tele-Seminar on Interior Design for Everyone

2009-06-02T10:59:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday June 16th at 7:15 p.m. EST, Creatively Yours Custom will present the debut of its Tele-Seminar Series titled "Interior Decorating Blueprint" I will discuss a formula I have used successfully to apply to decorating and redecorating projects. It will work for everyone's home.
There is no charge for this session! All you need to join in is your telephone. The call will last approximately 40 minutes and there will be a question and answer session at the end.

To register for the call, click here: http://richmonddecorator.com/teleseminar

Give "Green" A Chance

2009-05-22T21:06:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of budget friendly and earth friendly things you can do in your everyday life. Here are a few thoughts to get you started:
♥Use low – VOC paints. They give off considerably less fumes and are less toxic to the environment.Think of it as making a better choice and not sacrificing a thing!
♥Whenever possible, opt for quality furniture. It will last longer and not make its way to the landfill. Plus it can gain new life through refinishing.
♥Be a creative recycler. Rescue beautiful pieces from your attic or a thrift store. Give them a
makeover and a place of honor in your home.
♥Long before air conditioning, we all knew that tall ceilings, porches, and trees helped keep us cool in the summer. If you are building or remodeling consider these alternatives to cut down on air conditioning costs.
♥Green living is about making smart, healthy, long term decisions. Purchase only natural materials, choose energy-efficient options when buying everything from appliances to lightbulbs.
♥Resist the urge to bring home cheap disposable stuff. Remember that everything that you throw away will last a lifetime in the landfill.

No-Cost Decorating Teleseminar

2009-05-21T07:07:00.000-07:00

I am so excited that my new teleseminar series is going to launch on June 16th with a very informative session on "Blueprint for Successfully Decorating Every Room in Your Home". All you need is a telephone to call in and paper and pen to take notes. I will be posting times and call-in info in the near future. See you then!
I have so much design info to impart to all of you and am so ready to start.
Linda