Friday, August 12, 2011

  • Design your space, but don't over-design it. Let important elements make an impact without visual clutter detracting from them.
  • Important elements take on greater significance in an uncluttered space. Allow for walls with no pictures and empty floor space.
  • Let's analyze how you really use your space before we decide how it should look. Function First.
  • Architectural integrity gives your home beauty even when it is empty. Focus on the structure, then address the "things" you will put in it.
  • Making the most of what you have sometimes means putting away lots of the things you have.
  • If budget is an issue, exhaust all possibilities for ready-made products that will work for you before considering custom. Economies of scale and manufacturing efficiencies  keep costs down.
  • Give your space a fresh, new look with a few signature pieces of really cool furniture. A little style goes a long way!
  • Make wise decisions during the design process to reduce energy usage, conserve resources - saving money and the planet all at once.
  • No matter how spectacular a space looks, if it doesn't allow you to function comfortably and naturally in it - it's still poorly designed.
  • Interior Design includes the human aspect. Your well-designed home will include precious items given to you by loved ones that perhaps don't quite belong - from a design stand point. But they certainly do belong anyway.
  • Interior Design choices should be sustainable and socially-conscious. Ask the tough questions about the products you buy.
  • Design principles are the same for architecture, interiors, landscape and graphics - balance, rhythm, unity, scale/proportion and emphasis/focal point.
  • Beautiful Interior Design does not require great sums of money - just an eye towards the elements that will give your space harmony and a sense of style.
  • Adding art to your space brings it to LIFE.
  • Expand your living space by creating outdoor living areas as well.
  • Interior Design for small spaces requires a most careful selection of elements to create harmony. Be very particular with your finishes and furniture.
  • Sustainable Interior Design Tip: Buy the best quality you can afford for your finishes and furniture. Low quality, disposable items end up in the landfill far too quickly.
  • Draw a furniture plan for your space before making any purchases. You may be surprised by how little - or how much - room you actually have.
  • When your furniture budget is low, shop at consignment stores and furniture auctions for great deals on QUALITY furniture. It's much better than purchasing new, lower quality items. Happy Shopping!
  • Design your space to be uniquely your own. Choose individual pieces that truly reflect your tastes and speak to who you really are.
  • Designing your home is an on-going process. As you grow and change so will your tastes in architecture and design, including the furniture and art you wish to surround yourself with.
  • Renovating or remodeling your space requires great thought and analysis. How will the changes affect the natural day-lighting and flow of your space? Think carefully before you put up or remove walls.
  • Interior Design is greater than the sum of its parts. Each properly chosen element combined with all the other elements makes the sum total truly great!
  • Interior Design involves an understanding of the space, the architecture, the site and yourself.