Sunday, September 23, 2012

Hit Refresh!

Curtains: Wayfair.com, Chair & Pillows: Homedecorators.com, Lamp: Lightunguniverse.com


Sometimes re-doing an entire space just isn't feasible for any number of reasons. Instead of a room re-do, try doing a refresh! Update or change out accessories, artwork, window treatments, and maybe even an accent piece or two. You'd be surprised at what a difference a few small changes can make.
 

Here is a basic recipe for a room refresh:
 
1. Paint: Paint changes a room instantly. Sometimes this is all you need. But for the biggest bang, it helps to make additional changes (I'm getting to it :)
 
2. Window Treatments: Layering is key. Paint offset by curtains or blinds puts you well on the road to maximum design impact.
 
3. Decorative Pillows: Using pillows is a fun way to play with design trends, or seasonal changes like holidays, or simply update the look of your space. Mix patterns and textures, but try to keep a common theme (like shape or color for example).
 
4. Lamps: Lighting makes a space, but a good looking piece makes it that much better. New table or floor lamps add yet another dimension that visually enhances your room.
 
5. Artwork: Depending on your budget, this step isn't necessary, but if you can afford to do it, do it! Like I said before, layering is key. The more layers that pull your look together, the better (within reason of course).  
 
6. Accent Piece: Whether you are switching out a coffee table, a love seat, or just adding an accent chair, the addition of a new piece will serve your space well. This step isn't necessary either, but if you can swing it, certainly do it. You won't regret it.
 
And VOILA!!! There is your room refresh. Happy decorating.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Content: #Room Makeover, #Before and After, #Affordable Design, #Decorating Tips, #NYC Designer, #Interior Design, #DIY
 

Saturday, September 15, 2012

Outta Space...

One might think "the bigger the better" when it comes to living spaces but I don't feel that way. Sure big expanses of real estate are nice to look at.  Quite frankly, I prefer the charm of smaller spaces. The practical side of me is drawn to studios because they have the bare necessities, sleep/eat/"go" areas and there isn't a lot of space to maintain. If well laid out and put together, I'd take a studio over a mansion any day.

Here are a few studios that show that great planning and intention can make a grand statement.




Crisp, white, and well appointed.




 
Fun and Fresh!


 
Warm, quaint, and Oh so cozy.

Sunday, September 9, 2012

Dream a little dream...

Every now and then I post a picture of a space that I wouldn't mind having in my own home. This would be one!

Oh So Clever!!


Whenever I see something clever, I just  have to spread the word! So here it goes...
 
 
 
 
 
This is such a cute idea. Buy some simple hooks, hang your favorite items, and then trace them with washable marker. Clever and Adorable!!

 
 
 
 
 

Check out this wonderful teen bedroom. Fabulous work by Minneapolis designer Lisa Ball. When I first saw the walls, I thought it was cork. The concept that the cork is the wall covering and another material is used on top of that as a bulletin board is a great idea. However, the texture on the wall is actually a great wall covering by Phillip Jeffries. I'm not sure if that was the designer's intention but either way it is a very clever space.  From the nightstands that double as workspace to the modern taxidermy mounted above the bed. The space is fun and functional and certainly a job well done!

Monday, September 5, 2011

Chic This Week!

Photo Courtesy of Moxieq.com


Unconventional Centerpieces!!!

Every party can benefit from a bit of whimsy and all it takes is imagination.  The above table scape is a love fest of green vessels.  As always, what makes any and all designs great is variation in color, texture, scale, etc. But with that common element (green in this case) that ties them all together. So for your next event, try something unconventional and you may even surprise yourself! Bon Appetit!!

Friday, September 2, 2011

M.I.A.

Dear Readers and Design Enthusiasts,

Thank you for visiting and I apologize for my absence over the past month (yes it's been exactly one month). I had been under the weather and decided to take a much needed break. So thank you all for understanding and now we can get back to all the great design dish and tips.

Sincerely,
M. Daniels