Tip #8 ~ Add Depth with Decorative Finishes
Transform flat, dull walls into interesting and personal spaces with subtle or dramatic visual texture and broken color. Burnished mineral/metal finishes and layered colored glazes add depth. Some examples of softly reflective metals are mica, copper, pewter, bronze, antiqued silver & gold.
Tip #9 ~ Walk Into Another Room
Consider walls as planes of color, and see how they interact when viewing one next to the other in adjacent rooms. Approach it like a composition. You're in one room, but you're going to see a piece of another room through it. So as you're choosing colors, consider how they will flow from room to room to create your picture.
Tip #10 ~ Choose Different Paint Finishes
A single color used on walls and trim takes on new significance when applied in different finishes. For example, wall and trim colors can remain the same hue, but use an eggshell (matte and less reflective) finish on the walls and a satin or semigloss on trim. The color wall appear slightly different on each surface.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Tip #7 ~ Test Your Color Choice
Boost your confidence by testing colors on poster board or large areas of a wall. Don't be afraid to go beyond your comfort zone: Consider strong, vivid colors or soft, deep neutrals like chocolate brown or olive green as main or accent colors. Or add drama with a stronger color on the ceiling. Tinted ceilings can dramatically change the whole look of a room.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
10 Tips for Picking Interior Paint Color
Tip #6 ~ Learn the Color Terms
It helps to understand the terminology used to describe color.
It helps to understand the terminology used to describe color.
- Hue is what we call a color. Red is a hue. Blue is a hue.
- The value of the hue is how light or dark it is.
- Saturation refers to how dominant the hue is. As we go from red to pink, the red hue becomes less dominant.
- Intensity is the brilliance of the color. The pure colors such as red are more intense than the combined colors such as yellow-green. A stronger intense color usually has a more dominant hue.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
10 Tips for Picking Interior Paint Color
Why do we find one place appealing and are uneasy in another? Why are we attracted to one product over another? Color ~ whether architectural or in products ~ accounts for 60% of our response to an object or a place. Interesting!
The "buzz" about color is usually called "color psychology". But the effects of color are subtle and significant; physical and psychological. Color use is not something that results in a definitive equation between "color and our moods", as is a currently popular expression. Wherever we go we respond to color, but the importance of color is often underestimated. Color use is important to us personally in our homes and in the places where we work.
It's a good way to create a cohesive look in rooms with many windows and doors, and relatively little wall area.
Tip #1 ~ Follow the Color Wheel
A small color wheel is a great reference tool for modifying and intensifying two or more colors. For example, red and green, which are complementary (opposite) colors, are most intense when used together. You may be surprised at how many combinations function beautifully together, and you may even become attracted to entirely new color palettes. The color wheel also illustrates the visual temperature of color. Draw a line from the yellow-green mark on the color wheel all the way down to the red-violet; you'll see that all the colors on the left are warm and all the colors on the right are cool.
Complicated...no wonder clients hire Interior Designers!
Tip #2 ~ Play Up Monochromatic Schemes
Think one color is boring? Create bold or subtle variations within one color group with contrasting paint finishes. For example, use closely related colors, or try a single color in different finishes, for walls and trim in one space.
For an accent color, select a warmer (more towards reds) or cooler (more towards blues) color to complement your main color group. For a quieter ambiance, make sure your colors are not extremely bright. White or an off-white tint can be a striking accent when used as trim with a monochromatic color group.
Tip #3 ~ Start Small
If you're not sure where to begin with color, experiment in a powder room or bathroom, a small hall or area between rooms, or an accent wall. I usually paint the ceiling the same color as the walls in power rooms. It makes the room more dramatic! If you're doing your own painting, pick an area that's quick to do so you can see your results sooner, and be happy with it or change it. Let the room "grow" on you for several weeks before deciding how you "feel" about it. Look at the process as an adventure.
To get started, select a favorite color drawn from artwork, a rug, dishes, accessories or a furniture piece.
Tip #4 ~ Think About Your Mood
When selecting a color, consider the mood of a room. In a bedroom do you want the feeling to be restful and soothing or dramatic and intimate? Soft, cool colors and neutrals usually create a quieter feeling while stronger colors are for drama.
Do you want a dining area to feel sociable and stimulating or appear formal and quiet? Warmer, contrasting and somewhat brighter colors add to a sociable atmosphere; deeper blue-greens and neutrals will give a more formal ambiance.
Do you want your kid's room to create an active and exciting energy or an orderly and restful feeling? Be careful not to overstimulate your children with intensely bright hues. You may not know it, but some brighter colors can lead to unrest and irritability.
Tip #5 ~ Pay Attention to Lighting
The reason why paint stores have light boxes for you to test paint chips:
~ Natural daylight shows the truest color
~ Incandescent lighting brings out warm tones and yellows
~ Fluorescent lighting casts a sharp blue tone
So, a strong color might be too bright and overpowering when used on all walls or next to a large window, but it might be effective when used as an accent wall with indirect light.
Check back next week for Tip #6....
The "buzz" about color is usually called "color psychology". But the effects of color are subtle and significant; physical and psychological. Color use is not something that results in a definitive equation between "color and our moods", as is a currently popular expression. Wherever we go we respond to color, but the importance of color is often underestimated. Color use is important to us personally in our homes and in the places where we work.
It's a good way to create a cohesive look in rooms with many windows and doors, and relatively little wall area.
Tip #1 ~ Follow the Color Wheel
A small color wheel is a great reference tool for modifying and intensifying two or more colors. For example, red and green, which are complementary (opposite) colors, are most intense when used together. You may be surprised at how many combinations function beautifully together, and you may even become attracted to entirely new color palettes. The color wheel also illustrates the visual temperature of color. Draw a line from the yellow-green mark on the color wheel all the way down to the red-violet; you'll see that all the colors on the left are warm and all the colors on the right are cool.
Complicated...no wonder clients hire Interior Designers!
Tip #2 ~ Play Up Monochromatic Schemes
Think one color is boring? Create bold or subtle variations within one color group with contrasting paint finishes. For example, use closely related colors, or try a single color in different finishes, for walls and trim in one space.
For an accent color, select a warmer (more towards reds) or cooler (more towards blues) color to complement your main color group. For a quieter ambiance, make sure your colors are not extremely bright. White or an off-white tint can be a striking accent when used as trim with a monochromatic color group.
Tip #3 ~ Start Small
If you're not sure where to begin with color, experiment in a powder room or bathroom, a small hall or area between rooms, or an accent wall. I usually paint the ceiling the same color as the walls in power rooms. It makes the room more dramatic! If you're doing your own painting, pick an area that's quick to do so you can see your results sooner, and be happy with it or change it. Let the room "grow" on you for several weeks before deciding how you "feel" about it. Look at the process as an adventure.
To get started, select a favorite color drawn from artwork, a rug, dishes, accessories or a furniture piece.
Tip #4 ~ Think About Your Mood
When selecting a color, consider the mood of a room. In a bedroom do you want the feeling to be restful and soothing or dramatic and intimate? Soft, cool colors and neutrals usually create a quieter feeling while stronger colors are for drama.
Do you want a dining area to feel sociable and stimulating or appear formal and quiet? Warmer, contrasting and somewhat brighter colors add to a sociable atmosphere; deeper blue-greens and neutrals will give a more formal ambiance.
Do you want your kid's room to create an active and exciting energy or an orderly and restful feeling? Be careful not to overstimulate your children with intensely bright hues. You may not know it, but some brighter colors can lead to unrest and irritability.
Tip #5 ~ Pay Attention to Lighting
The reason why paint stores have light boxes for you to test paint chips:
~ Natural daylight shows the truest color
~ Incandescent lighting brings out warm tones and yellows
~ Fluorescent lighting casts a sharp blue tone
So, a strong color might be too bright and overpowering when used on all walls or next to a large window, but it might be effective when used as an accent wall with indirect light.
Check back next week for Tip #6....
Monday, October 4, 2010
Design with Distinction Interior Design Trends for the Living Room
Top Interior Design Trends for the Living Room
- Distressed leather ottomans (use as cocktail tables too)
- Vintage cocktail tables
- Black & White color palettes (sophisticated chic)
- Room dividers (stacked boxes, iron, hand painted)
- Textiles w/painted African landscapes & wildlife
- Rich, earthy color tones for carpeting
- Wood flooring (bamboo, hand distressed, wide plank)
- Simple, understated sofas & chairs w/clean lines
- Less detailing on upholstered pieces
- Modular furniture for limited spaces (lofts, libraries)
- Curvy sofas
- Eco-friendly chairs and slipcovers
- Antique tapestries
- Globally-inspired pieces
- Hollywood glam (yes, even wallpaper is making a comeback)
Interior Design Tips for Decorating for Fall
~ Fall is in the Air! ~
With the upcoming fall season, we find ourselves spending more time outdoors. Finally!!!! Let's take a look at what's new in "outdoor living rooms".
Furniture has really changed and become much more sophisticated. Tables come in all shapes, sizes and materials. Wrought iron bases with tops made of glass, granite, faux-stone or flagstone add a sense of richness. Other popular materials are a resin type wicker or actual wicker which add either an "Asian" or "Southern" feel. A major benefit to iron furniture is it's weight and durability. Because of this feature, it won't blow away in our monsoon weather.
Chairs come in such a variety of styles. Removable cushions with a sun protectant fabric make sense in our harsh climate. Ottomans are an important element and can serve double duty as both a foot rest and small cocktail table. Chaise loungers are seen both under the patio cover and poolside. Size on everything is over-scaled. Loungers are even available in double size width. There is an array of fabric pattern choices, so plan on mixing stripes, prints and solids together. This creates a custom "designer" look. Fire pits with comfy seating are BIG in today's backyard environment. Add candles for both warmth and ambiance. Nothing is more relaxing then sipping your favorite drink and watching the flame of a candle flicker. Enjoy!
Next week...more on outdoor living!
With the upcoming fall season, we find ourselves spending more time outdoors. Finally!!!! Let's take a look at what's new in "outdoor living rooms".
Furniture has really changed and become much more sophisticated. Tables come in all shapes, sizes and materials. Wrought iron bases with tops made of glass, granite, faux-stone or flagstone add a sense of richness. Other popular materials are a resin type wicker or actual wicker which add either an "Asian" or "Southern" feel. A major benefit to iron furniture is it's weight and durability. Because of this feature, it won't blow away in our monsoon weather.
Chairs come in such a variety of styles. Removable cushions with a sun protectant fabric make sense in our harsh climate. Ottomans are an important element and can serve double duty as both a foot rest and small cocktail table. Chaise loungers are seen both under the patio cover and poolside. Size on everything is over-scaled. Loungers are even available in double size width. There is an array of fabric pattern choices, so plan on mixing stripes, prints and solids together. This creates a custom "designer" look. Fire pits with comfy seating are BIG in today's backyard environment. Add candles for both warmth and ambiance. Nothing is more relaxing then sipping your favorite drink and watching the flame of a candle flicker. Enjoy!
Next week...more on outdoor living!
Monday, May 10, 2010
Decorating Children's Rooms - Part 3 (final)
Keeping your child's room organized will be one of your greatest challenges. Shelving is a quick and easy way to store items. A window seat with either drawers or cabinet style doors underneath will provide an area for sitting (add a cushion on the top w/decorative pillows) and also add wonderful hidden storage. There are plenty of free-standing shelving options as well. Large decorative wicker baskets work well for toys, books, art supplies, socks, etc. Plastic (see through) storage containers are also handy for the closet. If your child loves games and puzzles you will need a place to store all of these items. Separate games from puzzles and store them in plastic containers and creatively label them. Use a pair of chests next to the bed instead of tiny nightstands. Chests are a great solution for storing games, toys, books and art supplies. Add an armoire instead of a dresser. This can accommodate both clothing and a television. Customize stock bookshelf units by installing them side by side along a wall or on each side of a desk. Apply stock crown molding along the top for a more finished, custom look.
Paint is the least expensive way to decorate and adds instant "splash". Be bold and creative with your paint selections. For even more punch consider painting a decorative mural. Does your child like the jungle or maybe airplanes? Murals can even be incorporated into the furniture and then carried onto the walls. Decorating your child's room will be a wonderful experience for the entire family. I hope this quick overview helps start you off on the right track. Get going and have FUN!
Paint is the least expensive way to decorate and adds instant "splash". Be bold and creative with your paint selections. For even more punch consider painting a decorative mural. Does your child like the jungle or maybe airplanes? Murals can even be incorporated into the furniture and then carried onto the walls. Decorating your child's room will be a wonderful experience for the entire family. I hope this quick overview helps start you off on the right track. Get going and have FUN!
Monday, April 12, 2010
Decorating Children's Rooms - Part 2
Give your child a say! Their room should be fun. Purchase furniture that is excellent in quality. Children tend to really use their furniture and accessories. Whether it involves jumping on the bed (didn't you do that too?), opening and slamming shut the drawers or playing tag with pillows. If you are willing to make several changes as your child ages, the room may call for a fabulous "fantasy" bed. Fairytales, storybook princesses, and dragons live in the hearts and minds of nearly every child. Fantasy beds range from racecars to stagecoaches to Cinderella coaches to boats and more. When considering a fantasy bed purchase, make sure you have room for the bed of your choice. Also, ask yourself if you're comfortable with the fact that some of these beds may be outgrown by the teen years or before and will need to be replaced.
When decorating a child's room make it multi-functional. Play areas for younger children may include an arts and crafts center. Most children love to draw and color, so set aside an area for a child sized table and chair set and an easel. Hanging a chalkboard is a great idea for drawing or writing "to do" lists. There is paint available that works as a chalkboard - very durable - very cool! A reading area is essential. Provide a quiet and comfortable space that will entice them to do just that. Children love pictures. So dedicate a wall to display your child's favorite photographs and artwork. Pictures of family and friends will add to the comfort of the room. Use wide matching frames for continiuty.You should also dedicate space or shelving for displaying collectibles, trophies and other personal items. Computer desks with hutches are essential for homework, studying and staying "in touch".
When decorating a child's room make it multi-functional. Play areas for younger children may include an arts and crafts center. Most children love to draw and color, so set aside an area for a child sized table and chair set and an easel. Hanging a chalkboard is a great idea for drawing or writing "to do" lists. There is paint available that works as a chalkboard - very durable - very cool! A reading area is essential. Provide a quiet and comfortable space that will entice them to do just that. Children love pictures. So dedicate a wall to display your child's favorite photographs and artwork. Pictures of family and friends will add to the comfort of the room. Use wide matching frames for continiuty.You should also dedicate space or shelving for displaying collectibles, trophies and other personal items. Computer desks with hutches are essential for homework, studying and staying "in touch".
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Decorating Children's Rooms - What Fun!
As you might expect, decorating children's rooms is a bit different than decorating adult bedrooms. To children, a bedroom is a place to play games, read, listen to music, wrestle, have tea parties, display or hide prized possessions, fight dragons, or just be alone. Decorating children's rooms is a great opportunity for you to show off your playful side, do some family bonding and allow yourchild to be creative. Whether tackling this project by yourself or with the assistance of an interior designer there are many things to consider. First, talk to your child (if old enough) and find out what activities they enjoy. What brings them comfort? What are their favorite colors? What is unique about their personality that you can build a theme around?
Monday, January 4, 2010
Winter Guests
Winter Guests ~ Are you ready for your Winter guests? Make sure that extra blankets and pillows are in the closet. Remember to clear plenty of hanging space & purchase new heavy duty hangers. Buy two fluffy white terry cloth bathrobes for guests to use during their stay. That way they can lounge around and go to and from the bathroom easily.
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