Find your jumping-off point
Having a jump-off point or inspiration to get started is a must, a photo depicting your dream room, the perfect piece of art or area rug to define the style or period, you desire to create. Collect fabrics and wallcovering samples that set the tone, then we can start building the color scheme
I typically choose three colors in a room. Select one as the primary color, another for the secondary color and then the accent. The accent should be used at least three times in small amounts, but don’t make it too obvious.
Have fun with walls and ceiling
Adding interesting details to a wall can easily transform a bland space that lacks built-in character into something unique and amazing. Just like raised panel or Shaker kitchen cabinets add charm and beauty to a kitchen, interesting details on the walls can do the same elsewhere in the home. Wainscoting or paneling can easily be planned into the project during the design phase. Think about different and unique wall and ceiling textures, and did you know wallcovering is back, I’ve seen it recently used in bookcases, large format images in bedrooms or add a bit of texture in the entry.
Flooring trends for 2019 and 2020
As we all know natural wood, wood look vinyl, tile and eco-friendly products have really taken over the market. The newest trend is Blonde Flooring, light and airy it makes your room look bigger and works with any décor. Wood-look and textured flooring mimicking classic hardwood in laminate, vinyl and ceramic tile continues to be very popular. Waterproof vinyl, laminate and carpet is here to stay and very popular for kitchens baths and more.
Arranging your furniture for conversation and movement
Create comfortable conversation areas with your furniture groupings around the fireplace or other feature in the room. Avoid placing furniture up against the wall. An interesting room might be eclectic in the furniture choices, there is always an inherited antique that must be part of the arrangement. Think in terms of the Seven Principles of Design: Balance, Rhythm, Pattern, Emphasis, Contrast, Unity and Movement.
Window Treatments
Some say that a room is not complete without window treatments, but today’s society many of us are very casual, installing only hard window coverings with a simple soft fabric covering for more privacy. Depending on the style you choose window treatments can add rhythm and movement to a room and be the star attraction. A fabric color different than the walls will break up the space, and your eyes will stop to look. A drape or window treatment that blends with the walls will expand the room, making it look bigger.
Window coverings will insulate the space, provide filtering from the harsh sun and can be automated to work by control. Mounted on the outside of the window, window coverings hide ugly imperfections.
Contact GreenEastman for a Free Interior Design Consultation
Bring light to your space
By strategically placing light in the corners of a room, even a small space is visually enlarged. Using lamps in unusual places, maybe on the bathroom vanity to add a surprise element.
There are three different kinds of artificial light, plus natural light.
Ambient Lighting: A soft glow that blankets your space just enough for you to relax without glare. Different types f this light are recessed lighting, track, chandeliers and pendants fixtures.
Task Lighting: A smaller more concentrated light. Task lighting is meant to help you see when you’re doing projects in which you need a finer light, such as, reading, cooking, writing, sewing and many other things. Table lamps, floor lamps, swing arm, undercabinet and vanity lighting.
Accent Lighting: Concentrated light with the intention of adding style and drama to your home. You can illuminate the pieces you want to accentuate while shadowing dull areas. People use accenting for wall washing, artwork, bookcase displays, pieces of furniture, collections and the general architecture of their homes.
Make the space your own, accessorize!
Use design trends as a guide to accessorize the space, but make sure that you and your family’s personality shine thru. Mix soft accessories such as silk flowers, pillows draperies, and plants in to create that balanced look Rhythm and Contrast.
When placing artwork, mirrors and photos above the sofa start your arrangement about 7” to 9” above the furniture. The arrangement should span the space horizontally about 2/3 the length of the furniture item. Place larger, darker items at the bottom and smaller, lighter pieces at the top to give the feeling of Balance and Unity.
Have fun with your project and please send us a photo or two of the finished room.
