Inspiration found through Color.
Part 1….
Trend 1: Nature Inspired.
What a relief for lovers of neutral color schemes – everyone agrees this year that understated room schemes inspired by nature will be one of the strong trends for 2009. Designer’s have been inspired this year by everything from rich ochre colors to the simple beachfront homes with bleached cream wooden shutters, weathered and worn woods, and stones in warm hues, punctuated by cooler tones of blues and greens to create a natural balance of colour and texture that is warm and embracing.
Elements of the natural world have also inspired Wallpaper palettes such as this colour palette and is combined with flame red for an injection of vibrancy. Combine the ever popular greens with fresh yellow’s and add a touch of raspberry and mint green for a unique combination.
Being “Eco-Conscious” or “Green” is a deciding factor for many when decorating. In 2009, the will be slightly more subtle. With people moving less frequently, look for fresh and bright to become increasingly more important. Expect to see “New-Neutrals” take root, as the year continues.
Natural tones will also be an enduring popular choice for furniture, with wall colours being chosen to echo the tones of the upholstery.
Living Room
Inspired by nature doesn’t have to mean “No” color in a living room ! You can choose anything from deep dark browns to rich ochres, mustard yellows, pale greens and blues. When incorporating patterns… using something light and airy as opposed to heavily patterned choices creates a visually pleasing environment.
Bedrooms
Natural schemes doesn’t mean feminine and traditional – you can give a nod to the trend within a contemporary scheme too, as in this bedroom. Combine wood panelled wardrobes or walls with natural floor coverings and furniture in woody tones, and add texture with throws and cushions in deep earthy shades. Combine with a bold accent color to add a “Punch” to the area.
Kitchens
When making selections for your kitchen in the Natural trend, think sensibly and long term. Walls can always be painted and Accent your Kitchen with unique objects such as lighting, accessories, rugs, stools and window treatments to add flair….
Dining Room
This is a particularly good look to go for in your dining room. And, if your dining room is part of your kitchen area -like in an open plan – a Neutral scheme is a must to create a relaxed and cohesively calm space.
Kids’ Room
Design a neutral scheme for a kids’ room is easy and sustainable for the long-term (not having to change the scheme every few years is easy for the wallet as well). So, whether you’ve got a baby or a teenager, hit this trend in a big way…
Bathroom
Space is always a factor, but any bathroom can be given the natural touch easily. When looking for a new bathroom cabinet, choose one in real wood. Flooring, choose a natural stone. Wall tile, choose something light and airy with some visual texture. On a budget? Paint the walls a soft shade of green or blue.
Tags: 2009 home trends, Advice, choosing colors, Decorate on a budget, decorating styles, Design Styles, design trends, Do's & Don'ts, Eclectic style, home decorating, Home Improvements, Home makeover, inexpensive tips, Interior Design, Interior design style, Interior Design Tips, Interior Styles, paint colors
Posted by PC Design on Jul 13, 2009 in
Hot new items,
Resources,
design,
trends PSST….
I wanted to share some great new items HomePortfolio is showing off for “Outdoor Living”.
****Remember....Your backyard/frontyard/porch/patio/etc...
are all area's to consider when decorating in and around your home.
Check out HomePortfolio.com to see more great items.
Tags: Advice, affordable interior design, backyards, barbeque, decorate, design blog, design trends, diy, frontgate, grills, homeporfolio, Interior Design Tips, Lighting, Lights, new items, outdoor living, outdoors, party, patio's, pc design, pools, seating, tables, water
With an overwhelming response to last weeks blog….here are some more “affordable” tips to revitalize your home for Spring & Summer.
Give your windows a temporary face-lift:
If you have “layers” on your windows (panels and sheers), take the panels off and give an airy feel to your space with simple sheers, allowing light to flood in and give a beachy feel to your home.
from heavy…
to breezy.
Lighten up your bedding by removing the heavy comforter and adding a light weight blanket or coverlet that highlights a brighter or “sunnier” color from the comforter. If it’s a solid, find something with a pattern or floral with bright “Juicey” colors to change things up.
Change out the pillows on your sofa….
Remove these dark wintery pillows….
and add these bold, beautiful Summer pillows.
Accessorize with clear glass bowls with floating candles, white vases with a single brightly colored flower and bring the outdoors…in. Flowers, reeds of grass, cattails, single bud flowers, floating magnolia’s and potted Gerber daisy’s. Anything will work as long as it doesn’t give the feel of being too heavy.
For the kitchen:
Change out dish towels, soap containers, table linens, centerpieces, chair pads and wall display to something light and lively.
hang these on the wall for a summery change.
For additional ideas email pcdesign@mac.com or visit www.affordableinteriordesigners.com
Tags: Advice, Budget Design, Decorate on a budget, Do's & Don'ts, Home, Home Improvements, Home makeover, inexpensive tips, interior, Interior Design, Interior design style, Interior Design Tips, modern design
Ideas for “Affordable” Spring Home Makeovers…..
“Juicey” Spring Colors
Spring Color ideas to paint the walls, or the floor, windows, pillows, vases, furniture, etc….
The Blue Hues
- Palace Blue— a favorite amongst designers which takes a navy undertone and makes it sparkle. A cross between a sky blue and strong navy. This is a color which works with almost any other, pink, yellow, lavender or green.
- Lavender— the regal purple of fall has been adapted to a softer lighter lilac, feminine and romantic, and slightly mystical.
- Rose Dust— a pale pinkie blue, which is a welcome break from traditional neutrals. Almost a white-washed lavender, this is one of the coolest colors.
- Slate Gray— a cool and calming nuanced neutral which provides a backdrop to any of Pantone’s 9 other colors and is a perfect pairing to lavender hues.
The Red Hues
- Fuchsia Red–—Vibrant yet seductive, powerful and robust. Fresh and dazzling, fuchsia features heavily in nail polish and lipsticks too.
- Salmon Rose— Mixing a soft salmon pink with the subtleness of oranges which is flattering to most complexions and gives a warm healthy glow.
The Green Hues
- Vibrant Green— a mossy mid-green which is bright but not harsh
- Dark Citron— a calm, almost olive color which blends perfectly with this season’s lemon tones.
- Lucite Green— a clean, subtle, soft green which adds a slight shimmer
Yellow
- Super Lemon— brings a fun, optimistic outlook to the Palette,” states the Pantone Spring 2009 report. “Its luminosity is determined to evoke a smile and attract the roving consumer’s eyes.”
Under $100……unique “Artography” at an “Affordable” price.
Upload your own photo’s for a unique visual “Artography” session.
Find a photo of something you love…You, your spouse, family, pet, building, place, etc….
Decide on the effect you would like it to have and let the world of computer magic takeover.
Check out www.photofiddle.com to learn how to create your own “Artography” collection.
Are you afraid to make a comittment to your walls?
Check out www.whatisblik.com. They have whole wall size graphics, lettering, patterns, decals, kids & adult designs for you to choose from.
Grandfather clock graphics Graphic lettering
Sphere design graphics
Looking for something on a larger scale than peel & stick decals?
Try whole wall mural sheets for under $100.
Babies nursery Dinner in Paris
Vegas... Bamboo forest (View of whole wall in room)
You might just feel like you are actually on vacation with these life like murals.
Visit www.decorplace.com for a huge selection of ideas or a few to create your own.
And finally….to add a few accessories here and there to and a punch into your spring and summer decor…check out Target.com for great priced accessories like the one’s shown below.
$9.99 for the set of votive holders Set of 4 Damask porcelain plates $27.99
$19.99 for the base…add a bold shade! Bright and bold picture frame $6.99.
Coordinate these items together or create your own palette to work from.
For these and many more ideas……visit www.affordableinteriordesigners.com/blog.
Tags: accessories, Advice, affordable decorating, Budget Design, colors, Decorate on a budget, Home Improvements, Home makeover, inexpensive tips, Interior Design, Interior Design Tips, modern design, shop at target, Target, under $50
Follow these tips to create a good home environment and making everyday life easier.
1. Home Interiors are ALWAYS a work in progress.
Keep things fresh and loose by changing things up. Perfection stifles creativity. No, one item, has a specific place.
Change out pillow covers on your sofa or in your Guest Room in the Spring and Fall (or anything else movable and easy to store for the season).
In the winter…use candles for a warm feel; and in the spring….use fresh flowers to bring the outside in.
2. A home isn’t a Museum.
Use every room for fun and gathering. If you have a room that is only used for special occasions (maybe 6-10 times per year), what do you use it for for the other 340 days?
3. Don’t over accessorize..
Follow the rule for getting dressed…. get completely dressed, then, take one item off. A space with too many items in it will look cluttered and junky…even with the most expensive of items on display.
4. SURPRISE!
Just like when you are looking in a store and you turn the corner and see a great display….that’s a surprise.
Add spontaneous items out in the open. If you are working with a neutral palette in a room, add one bold, unique looking item that will make someone say “WOW” and people will take notice.
5. Don’t think in terms of Feminine and Masculine.
Stay away from overly ruffled items, bows and too much lace. Think in terms of “soft” or “glamorous” when wanting something a little more girly.
6. When shopping for furnishings….
It doesn’t matter where it came from, YOU, just have to love what your living with.
7. Fabulous Finds.
In today’s world of “Going Green” recycled items are a must. If a friend offers something to you, that they are tired of, do a trade and (provided they don’t want the item back) re-purpose it to coordinate with your interiors or add a “WOW” spot to your home. ANYTHING old….can become new again!
Wood floor planks to Wine Rack.
Toothbrushes as wall hooks for kids.
Old armoire turned game center.
8. Think outside of the box.
Think of all the business out there and what the possibilities there products hold. Download a picture you like online and cut-out a pattern to create your own stencil. Go to a tile store and ask for their discarded or damage products (some will be greatly discounted, others might even be free) and revamp an old side table you are looking to spiff up. There are tons of mosaic ideas online. Go to a produce company and ask for their fruit crates and create vintage storage containers. Use wide, colored tape, to create stripes on the walls in a small area .
Old milk jug...turn to table base or bird bath.
Industrial Coils turned barstools.
9. Party in a Closet.
Impromptu party? Keep everything you need stored (and organized) in a closet. Bar napkins, containers of peanuts, cups, plates, candles, wine and more. You don’t want to have to run out and shop at the last minute before entertaining. When you start running low, replenish.
10. You get what you pay for.
This is tried and true! When you find good people to work with, make it worth their while and yours. It will reflect in the work and maybe…get it done sooner, rather than later. And by the way…don’t forget to tell them how much you appreciate them….It goes a looooooooooooooong way!
Want to find out more? Visit: www.affordableinteriordesigners.com.
Tags: Add new tag, Advice, Affordable, Budget Design, Budget interior design, Decorate on a budget, Do's & Don'ts, Home, Home Improvements, Home makeover, inexpensive tips, Interior Design, Interior Design Tips
Most people today, classify themselves as “Transitional” in their Interior Design Styles (or what some of my client’s call, “the Pottery Barn Style”).
Let’s delve into the meaning of “Transitional” to find out if this style best represents you!
We go back to the unforgettable, and I say this with great respect, catalog that is received in the mail by millions of people weekly………..Pottery Barn.
As quoted from their website; “Pottery Barn began in 1949 as a single store in Lower Manhattan, and is founded on the idea that home furnishings should be exceptional in comfort, style and quality. Our in–house designers draw their inspiration from time–honored models in America and around the world to create unique collections…..”.
While this isn’t a Blog about Pottery Barn, they are one of the most widely viewed home decorating catalogs in the world and are, the best, Visual example of simple, neutral and elemental design qualities out there. Other places to find “Transitional” style furnishings are at your larger department stores and larger chain furniture (some discount) super stores.
Transitional decor, blends “Traditional” Style with “Contemporary” Styles to make distinctive, classic, yet comfortable Design. The primary influence is “American” with sleek lines and rounded profiles, rich prints with minimalistic approaches and very affordable options. Items aren’t overstated for the rooms, but sized in proportion to them.
Colors associated with this style are muted neutrals; blends of creams, taupe’s, chocolates (neither to masculine or feminine). There aren’t many additional adornments to furnishings, like fringe, tassels or “frills”. Nailhead is often used as contrast for trim on upholstered pieces. Typical fabrics used are; Suede, Corduroy, jacquard, leather, chenille, cotton, twill, woven and tweeds.
Accessorizing takes a back seat in transitional design. Crisp, clean black or white framing and monochromatic artwork, hammered metals, natural wood, geometric shapes. Accessories that are ornate, fancy, elegant or over-the-top are limited to one (or none) per space. Keeping things simple, but interesting, is primary.
Transitional lighting includes, understated, unadorned chandeliers, ceiling fans with adjustable lighting, pendants that seem to fade in rather than stand out in contrast to cabinetry and lamps that carry a classic yet simple style with an updated feel.
Next, Interior Design Style Revealed………. “Contemporary”.
Tags: Advice, cotton, decorating styles, Design Styles, diy transitional design, furniture like pottery barn, interior, Interior Design, Interior design style, Interior Design Tips, Interior Styles, neutral colors, neutral decor, pottery barn, pottery barn design, suede furniture, transitional design, transitional interior design
Home Improvements for $100 or Less
Paint one wall a darker neutral to really make your room shine — and increase its drama, style and value.
Tip 1: Spend an hour with a pro.
Invite a realtor or interior designer over to check out your home. Many realtors will do this as a courtesy, but you will probably have to pay a consultation fee to a designer. Check with several designers in your area — a standard hourly fee is normally less than $100. PC Design LLC offers these services starting at $25/hour.
In an hour, a professional can give you lots of ideas for needed improvements. Even small suggestions, such as paint colors or furniture placement, can go a long way toward improving the look and feel of your home.
Tip 2: Inspect it!
Not every home improvement is cosmetic. Hidden problems like deteriorating roofs, termite infestation or outdated electrical systems can negatively impact your home’s value. Hire an inspector to check out the areas of your home that you don’t normally see. Small problems, like a hidden water leak, can become expensive headaches if you put off repairs. A little investment now can save you loads of cash later.
Tip 3: Paint, paint, paint.
One of the simplest, most cost-effective improvements of all is a fresh coat of paint. Newly painted rooms look clean and updated — and that spells value. Neutral paint colors appeal to the greatest number of people, therefore making your home more desirable. On average, a gallon of paint costs around $25, leaving you plenty of money to buy rollers, tape, drop cloths and brushes. So, buy a few gallons and get busy! PC Design LLC offers color consultations for four rooms starting at $50/hour.
Tip 4: Cut energy costs.
If you think your utility bill is a fixed amount, call your local utility company to find out. Many energy providers offer free energy audits of their customers’ homes. They can show you how to maximize the energy efficiency of your home. A power- and water-saving home will conserve your money now, and is more valuable in the long run. Plus, you can use the money you save for more updates!
For more great ideas….contact PC Design LLC or check out the original article at:
http://www.frontdoor.com/Sell/10-Ways-to-Increase-Your-Homes-Value/1233
Tags: Advice, Budget Design, Decorate on a budget, decorating styles, Design Styles, Home Improvements, Home makeover, inexpensive tips, Interior Design, Interior design style, Interior Design Tips
Posted by PC Design on Apr 6, 2009 in
Interior Design Tips When you think of the style, French Country; you think of France, in the Provence Region. You think of old French Chateau’s in the country with rolling hillsides and romantic french accents.
French Country is a category of Design within the Country theme. There are many attributes to the “Country” them (depending on the provenance, country, city you are taking influence from), but we will get into that in the future.
French Interiors hold a romantic yet casual feel, with pleasing colors of contrast, wood and upholstery mixed together and Natural elements used to accent Architecturally.
Color is one of the first things that pop into your mind when you are thinking about what French Country entails. You think of mustard and burnt reds, oranges, grassy greens and deep dark hunter green, powder blue and sunny yellow. Don’t forget about the stylish Black & Whites as well.
One of the first elements used in French Country Design are “Natural” materials. Rough stained items (otherwise known as Rustic). Woven chair seats of straw to give a “rough” texture. Distressed wood with flowery carving. Old, distressed wood repurposed to make furniture. Stone Flooring with cotton throw rugs. Stone or brick fireplaces with large openings and iron accessories to the side. Plaster walls (or faux plaster walls) to give the aged effect of the outside coming in.
Distressed wood with straw seating.
This armoire is made out of antique door panels from France (sometimes referred to as a “Knock-down” armoire).
Rustic furnishings are a key element in this design. Wood panels, old french milk crates, hand carved pottery, distressed tables, white wash (milk painted) finishes, carved sofa’s with tall legs, wood and upholstery mixed.
The one item you CAN’T forget in a French Country Design, is the timeless Rooster. Used in many different facets throughout the home; from chandeliers, to pottery, to clocks, fabric linens, tableware and more; this icon is one element you cannot be without when designing your home with this beautiful theme.
Other elements (or icons) used are; olives, grapes, lavendar, cows, copper accessories (especially pots & pans), sunflowers and vintage wine items. Things you would think of, or have seen on the French Countrysides.
White, yellow and cream grounds stand as the popular choices for fabrics with the design in bold contrasting colors, as in toile. Most carry a cream or white background and then red, black green, blue and orange as the design. Window treatments are ornate and layered in fabric or simple with decorative trim.
If you find that you lean toward the French Country style, give it a try. It is cheery, “Green” in today’s standards if using items (like the antique armoire above) that were previously used in a different manner and fun to coordinate. Accessories are easy to find, due to the popularity of the style and searching through flea markets and old antique shops will surely bring out your creative side.
Be sure to watch for the next….Interior Design “Style”……. Revealed! Au Revoir!
Tags: Advice, Decorating in French Country, decorating styles, Design Styles, French, French Country, French Country Design, French Country Sytle, French Design, Home, Interior Design, Interior design style, Interior Design Tips, Interior Styles, Style
Posted by PC Design on Mar 31, 2009 in
Interior Design Tips What does lighting do…besides the obvious?
Lighting adds style, function, and mood to a space.
How do you know if your Interior is lit properly? Glad you asked!
Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
1. Can you walk thru a room without tripping over anything?
2. Does light bounce off surfaces creating a soft glow?
3. Can you read the newspaper in your favorite chair? In bed?
4. Does the fixture ENHANCE your home’s Interior?
The first thing you need to do before you add any lighting…is to define the PURPOSE of the room.
The second, is to establish the area’s main lighting needs.
And, Third, is to create Lighting “Layers”.
Types of lighting:
Overhead lighting: Chandelier & Recessed
Task: Reading lamp & Desk lamp
Ambient (Accent): Floor lamps, Table Lamps (for enhancing the overall mood)
**Quick & easy Lighting change.**
Change the shades on your Dining Room Buffet Lamps.
Take the old, drab, outdated shades off the fixture (should be very easy and slide right off) and add new, updated shades with a punch of color or beaded design.
Examples of lighting
Table Lamp Floor Lamps Buffet Lamps
Pendants
(traditional) (non-traditional)
Chandeliers
Wall Sconces
Uplight Recessed
Track Cable/ Tech Lights
The key to lighting is making sure you have enough; and still be able to create a variety of moods, through the different lighting layers.
Tags: Advice, Buffet Lamps, Chandelier, decorating styles, Floor Lamps, Interior Design, Interior design style, Interior Design Tips, Layered lighting, Light sources, Lighting, Lights, Pendant lights, Recessed lights, Room lighting, Table lamps
The Do’s & Don’ts… of Good Home Design.
Have you ever found yourself feeling overwhelmed with all the decisions involved in decorating your home? Don’t worry… you aren’t the only one. To give a little insight into the Interior Design world, I compiled a list of good, “Do’s” & “Don’ts” you should follow when it comes to your home. Follow this, and you are off to a fabulous start.
DO…
DON’T…
- Go overboard with “Theme’s” in your home.
- Impulse buy! You get into trouble and end up with boxes of “What was I thinking” stored in the basement, under the stairs.
- Match all the wood pieces in a room setting. Mix “coordinating” woods to create a unique look.
- Go “Cheap” just to fill all your rooms. Work on a budget and invest in good, quality constructed pieces.
- Decorate your entire home with the “Latest Trends”. They will be outdated before you get a chance to enjoy it.
- Use greenery in your home (real or silk) UNLESS, you plan to maintain them and dust them frequently. Nothing is worse than looking at a dead plant in the corner of someone’s living room or faux greenery on top of the kitchen cabinets that hasn’t been dusted in 2 years.
Tags: Advice, Do's & Don'ts, Interior Design, Interior Design Tips
