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STYLE IS A CONTINUOUS PROCESS
We’ve covered many decorating dos and don’ts in recent weeks, and now I
would like to sum up my philosophy on what makes a home outstanding.
This will be my last column as John and I are moving to Phoenix at the
end of June.
Remember that color and lighting are the pillars of good design. Don’t
leave your walls white thinking they will make everything seem fresh.
Unless white is combined as an intentional part of a design plan, it
comes off as cold and unimaginative. Color adds warmth, contrast,
interest, and it reflects your taste and personality. It’s not about
making rainbow décor, but varying a few well -chosen hues that blend.
Keeping rooms free of clutter is on a par with good color schemes. Since
beginning home staging for resale, including my own, my awareness of
what is essential to a room, and what is overkill, has deepened. We all
love fluff and accessories, but we can’t accommodate the vast array of
things we find appealing. Only buy items that compliment your design
scheme, and that you can place properly. Remember that a few larger
scale items are much easier to read.
Think it over before you embark on collectibles. How many hummels,
lladros, or snow babies can you focus on at one time? No matter how
adorable, or skillfully crafted, stacking such items in rows, on
multiple shelves, resembles a museum or department store, more than
comfortable home décor. If you have collections, keep them contained in
one or two well-lit cabinets, and keep them rotated so the viewer can
focus on just a few items at a time.
Proper placement of the main furniture pieces is essential to good
design. Place the biggest pieces first so that they balance the focal
point, and progress to the smallest items lastly. Look at what you have
placed from every angle, since everything should look appealing as you
enter any doorway, or sit in any chair.
We all love bargain shopping, but every home should have a few high
quality items, commensurate with your budget, that will be pivotal in a
room. Refurbished flea market finds can often be that quality, but so is
a solid wood credenza with a marble top. Don’t get overly involved with
the throw away mentality.
To get the most benefit from your biggest investment, your home, you
have to maintain it and keep it updated. How may of us are content with
the twenty year old sofa and carpeting? Even a house full of costly
antiques that are ageless can benefit from style trends that enhance
their appeal.
Don’t be reluctant to seek professional advice if you have difficulties
pulling a design plan together. A designer will keep you on track and
help you avoid costly missteps.
It has been a pleasure writing this column and getting the positive
feedback from so many of you. Thank you for your support, and keep your
design eye open.
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