I Need a Paint Color By Tomorrow!

Okay, I may not have had a client need it quite that quickly. But I will say I have had any number of clients who call on Monday and say the painter is coming Thursday and ask my availability. And that's a problem for a number of reasons . . .

Selecting a paint color can be very tricky. First, the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. When I visit a client I bring fan decks for Classic Colors, Preview Colors, and Aura, along with eight rings of 2x8 Preview samples in a case that looks like this - only much bigger. All in all there are over 3500 colors to choose from. So although my job as a designer is to narrow those choices for my clients (hopefully to three), it might take just a little bit of time.

Once the color selections have been made (always in the room to be painted), clients need to see larger samples in the room - and in different locations. So I order large (8x8) paper samples that then must be put on white poster board so that the white shows around the edges. Those poster board samples are placed around the room in strategic places: the darkest wall, the lightest wall, the place where your eye goes when you enter the room from each entry - and anywhere else that is important. This usually involves placing 5-8 sample boards around the room. Then the clients need to look at the boards at all times of the day and night. Seeing the boards in direct daylight, under artificial light, on cloudy days, and at all times of the day and night (because the lighting will be different). This process generally takes at least several days. And to show why, here are three photos of three different rooms all painted in Benjamin Moore's Powell Buff.

At this point the clients may have a color selected. It's taken a lot longer than a day - or three. But the really good news? The chances are very good it's the right color. And that makes everyone happy. Except perhaps for the painter, who was looking to get paid repainting.

You've Got This

One of the most difficult aspects of working with my clients is seeing how some of them struggle to feel comfortable in their own homes. And the reason is usually because they think they don't know how to "decorate". It seems that with our design "rules" and shelter magazines, we've intimidated people so they are afraid of doing something wrong. So they do nothing at all.

I understand when people have rooms that just don't quite seem right and they can't figure out why not. There are some things that do go a long way towards making rooms warm and inviting. But that's different from not doing anything because you're afraid to do the wrong thing.

So here are a few of my "rules" that anyone can implement. And immediately feel better about their homes.

1. If you don't love it or use it, lose it. Why keep things around you that aren't useful or don't make you smile when you see them?
2. If you do love it, showcase it, whatever it is. And no matter what anyone else says. That means putting it on display, hanging it on the wall, using it regularly and not just on special occasions.
3. Less is generally more, but only because we can really notice our things if there's not too much else around them. That doesn't mean getting rid of anything (unless you don't love it), but perhaps rotating your things. You'll really appreciate them so much more when you do see them. 
4. Don't pay attention to trends, unless there's one you happen to really love. I can't tell you how
   
   many times I hear things like "I really love green, but I know it's not a good color for a dining room". There are no decorating police. See Rule #2.

Of course there are tips and tricks that can really work to make our homes look and feel the way we like. And we don't always know what they are or how to use them. But start with these 4 "rules" and you'll be well on your way!

Where Should the Money Be Spent?

It's getting close to move time! We will be in our new home shortly after the 4th of July. It's been a long while since I moved into a new home........16 years to be exact. I've been implementing suggestions I've used with my clients. And what better way to prove them true! Here are a few I've shared that are also working for me.

First, when buying new upholstered furniture, particularly the largest and most expensive pieces (such as the sofa) stay with neutrals. That means not only a neutral fabric, but also a neutral style. Neutral doesn't have to be borrowing, but it does  have to be something that can easily change as your tastes change. So when you want to change from the mod colors above to something a bit more formal and subdued, you can do so without having to spend a fortune on a new sofa.Or in the room below, plan for when the kids get older and their artwork is replaced by something more adult the sofa will still work. Simply change the coffee table and end table for something a bit more sophisticated and you have a new room - with the old sofa!


Keep window treatments simple. If you need privacy or light control, something classic and practical like Hunter Douglas Silhouettes or the rattan shades in these photos can be used alone. Ready for a change? Add stationery panels in fabrics and colors that give  you the new look and feel you are after. A much less expensive alternative to new custom draperies with all the bells and whistles. And an instant update to the room!

And finally, use area rugs to give you the color and texture you need, but don't spend a fortune. That way when it's time for a change in the style of the room, the rug can be a part of that change - and one you won't feel badly about.

What Makes a Desk?

Since reading Jennifer Hofmann's blog post from a few days ago about using tables as desks I've become mildly obsessed. I've also heard from a number of you that you also use a table in place of a desk. It makes sense for those of us who need a little more space. But I've really decided I love them just for their looks.

Courtesy HGTV

As an example, this one wouldn't work for me because of the size. But what a perfect desk for home use! If you do need a bit more space, a larger table like this would work just fine. With wonderful wireless technology, you can place it in the middle of the room so it really makes a statement.

Courtesy HGTV

I also love the idea of using a dining table as a desk. Keep it in the dining room so it has can still host holiday dinners. But use it the rest of the time as your desk. Or if you're lucky enough to have a great office space, a dining table still works very well. This is a great look - complete with dining chairs!

And finally, I'm a huge fan of sawhorse desks. I love the lines of the legs and the overabundance of space on top. I love that they are a contemporary look but can be used in a more traditional setting, like this one from William Sonoma. I love that the tops can be wood, or formica, or glass, or whatever flat surface that you choose. I love that you can even make one yourself if your so inclined.

Bottom line: think creatively yet practically  when it comes to your desk space. Tables of all shapes and sizes work very well in place of traditional desks. Just make sure you have the storage space you need elsewhere, then have fun!

Like these desk ideas? Check out my latest Pinterest board Unusual Desks for more great ideas.

Rugs Aren't the Only Answer for Floors

While I've never done it in my own home, painted floors are beginning to appeal to me. It started with a great article in House Beautiful.......and went from there. There are so many creative ideas out there!

Courtesy HGTV

If  your wood floor just isn't in good shape, a paint job may be just the uplift you need. And if you keep it simple not only will it be a fraction of the cost of refinishing, but you can also keep your area rug.

Courtesy House Beautiful

Want a little more interest? Think colors! A pretty color will add more pizazz and make a rug unnecessary. If you're afraid of going to bright in the house, what about a porch or patio? Nothing brings to mind summer skies better than a sky blue floor.

If you really want to get creative, consider a pattern. While this may be a little tricky for the amateur (but certainly not impossible), even the cost of hiring a professional is worth the unique patterns you can have. Your floor becomes truly one of a kind.

If your entire floor doesn't need painting (or even if it does), consider a painted rug. And just like a "real" rug, the wear and tear on a painted rug just adds a lovely patina.

If you decide to paint your floor, there are a few things to keep in mind. The floor needs to be completely free of dirt and dust before you begin. Otherwise, you'll have a bit more texture than you may have bargained for. If you're getting a bit creative, it's probably a good idea to paint a sample board. That way you can make sure you are getting the colors, patterns and textures you really want. If the floor is already varnished, that will need to be removed before painting. And a coat of polyurethane is probably a very good idea, particularly in high traffic areas.

Like these ideas but want to see more? Check out my Painted Floors board on Pinterest!

Mirrors, Mirrors, Everywhere?

Much as I love mirrors, I've learned to really pay attention to where I hang them. They really do have a function. They can be hung to reflect something pretty, like the light of a beautiful chandelier. (But make sure they don't reflect the people eating.) Or to double the impact of a vase of fresh flowers or it candles.

They  can be hung where they are useful. Bathrooms are the most obvious of these places, but what about entry halls? Isn't it nice to do a quick check before you go out the door? Or perhaps the entry is on the small size. Nothing like a mirror to open up the space and make it feel larger and lighter.

And they can be used as art. But even as art, unless you are doing something fun like this creative grouping from Real Simple, be very careful what the mirror reflects.

Placing mirrors on mantels can be a great idea - as long as the ceiling isn't reflected. And that dining room mirror? Hang it high enough so the chandelier is reflected, but not the diners (unless you aren't sure you have enough to feed everyone). Above the sofa? Maybe.......as long as the main thing you see is yourself - or others - walking by. It may be that an eye-catching piece of art is a better idea.

Want more reflections on mirrors? Check out my board on Pinterest.

Winter Bedrooms

Nothing is better during the winter than settling into a nice cozy bed - in a nice cozy bedroom. Although I'm a believer in the sanctity of the bedroom at any time of year, it becomes even more important during the cold winter nights which are almost upon us.

Courtesy BHG

Many of my clients consider their bedrooms last in their decorating priority list. But I encourage them to at the very least consider easy, cost-effective changes to make this an inviting sanctuary at the end of the day.

One of the easiest changes is layering. Use a white quilt - no duvet cover is even necessary. Cover it with a lighter weight coverlet to add color and interest. Or fold a beautiful blanket at the end of the bed for additional warmth as needed.Add a wool throw pillow and you're ready for chilly nights!

Courtesy BHG

If you prefer a colorful duvet, it can be easy to make. Simply sew two sheets together on three sides and add velcro or pretty ribbon ties on the fourth to keep it together. Fold it at the end of the bed or use it as a spread for a pretty, colorful change.

Courtesy BHG

But don't stop with the bedding. What about adding a soft, textured cover to the bedside table?This may be in the living room, but it would still be at home next to the bed.

And of course, there are a flokati rug will add coziness, a bit of a warm, dramatic color, soft lighting, candles......you get the idea. For more winter bedroom inspiration, check out my new board on Pinterest.

The Importance of Vignettes

I had the opportunity to stage a small but light-filled vacant condo in Milford, CT last week. Of course it was on a limited budget, which meant lots of creativity with the accessorizing. Then when I saw a fabulous vignette posted by Jill Hosking Cartland of Hosking Interiors on Facebook, I realized just how important accessorizing and vignettes are - regardless of the budget. They are truly like the icing on the cake.

So what does it take to create a memorable vignette? For one thing, not overdoing it. That means to let the display items speak for themselves. The simplicity of this arrangement allows each of the items to work together without one of them standing out. And the colors work perfectly with the rest of the room.

Courtesy BHG

Scale  is also important. Not only do the accessories need to fit the space they also need to work with each other. If implementing the rule of 3, think small, medium, and large.

Creativity in vignettes really makes them personal. Adding items that are important to you and your family add meaning. And mixing styles and textures can also create interest. And don't forget the artwork! Including artwork when appropriate completes the "picture".

Color, textures, shapes, creativity in selection - all go together to create something memorable. And for additional ideas, check out my new board on Pinterest.

That '70's Look

I'm not sure I'm wild about it, but it seems to be making a comeback. Having started my first away-from-home decorating experiences in college during the '70's, it can feel a little old to me rather than retro. Having said that, there are some things from the '70's I'm glad to see!

I love, love, love "shag" rugs. Now called Flokati, modern shag, or longer-pile rugs, they have a softer more appealing look than those of the '70's, despite being a bit difficult to clean.

While avocado green isn't a favorite, there is something to be said for harvest gold, especially when paired with brighter, more up-to-date colors like this light green and orange.

IKEA has fabulous offerings of the '70's retro look. Complete with floral coverings for their sofas and chairs, interesting coffee and end tables
(remember metal carts?), and very cool lights, it may just be the go-to place for that '70's look. I love this table!

And finally, lighting.....think swags, chrome, lava lamps........ Okay, forget the lava lamps. But don't hesitate to swag your pendant lamp. And if you're looking for a desk lamp, what could be cuter - or more retro - than this?

If you're like me and thinking maybe the '70's decorating wasn't all bad, check out my new board on Pinterest.

Family Rooms Are For Families

Family rooms.......there's a reason they are called that. It's where the family hangs out. Sometimes it's immediate family only, sometimes it's extended family, and sometimes it's friends who feel like family. Because it needs to work for the family it serves, there aren't any hard and fast decorating "rules" to follow. But here are some ideas that just might make yours a little more fun!

Roger Davies

Have younger family members? Rather than putting their art on the refrigerator, what about framing and using it in place of more traditional art? Simple frames in black or white won't interfere with more colorful art and make switching art projects easy.For art that can change more often, paint a large piece of plywood (make sure it's been sanded) or even the wall with chalkboard paint. Frame it and keep a basket of colorful chalk nearby and the "art" may change daily!

BHG

Need lots of seating? Use poufs as side tables, store small ottomans under console tables for extra seating, use a bench as a coffee table, decorate
with large pillows that transition easily from the furniture to the floor.

Place less emphasis on the television by having lots of games handy. Store them in an armoire or in baskets or bins, but make sure they are easily accessible - and there is room to play them.

Family rooms should have family memories. Keep a basket on the coffee table of photos from family vacations through the years. Or cover the coffee or side table with photos, then cover with a glass top to preserve them. Or decorate with treasures picked up during these trips. Fill a glass jar with seashells collected while at the beach, make a collage of leaves found during a fall foliage tour, or hang a map of the state, the country, or the world and put a decorative pin in all of the places the family has traveled.

Whatever you do, make it yours. Family rooms are all about families, so make sure yours reflects the love of the people who live there........and inviting to all those who visit. And if you would like more family room ideas, check out my board on Pinterest!

Preparing to Sell.......or Stay!

Two years ago my husband and I decided to downsize, so we made some upgrades to our  home. And guess what happened? We decided we really liked what we had done, so we were going to stay a little bit longer. This spring, the downsizing idea came around again. So we started making a few changes and........we'll see what happens, but it's looking pretty nice around here. So why didn't we do some of these things earlier? Good question. So in case you're considering selling - or staying - here are a few inexpensive (and mostly) easy ideas that will help you enjoy whatever time you have left in the house. And make a good impression on your potential buyers when the time comes to sell.

Paint the grout. We have an off-white tile in our foyer and kitchen which originally had an off-white grout. But over the years the dirt built up, making the floor look old and dated. Rather than regrout, I cleaned the old grout with a special cleaner, then used a combination grout paint and sealer to bring back the old color. For a fraction of the cost of new tile the floor looks fabulous!

Paint or cover dated tile. If you're selling your home, dated kitchens and baths can be deal-breakers. But removing dated tile is very expensive. Instead, try painting it. You need to cover the tile with a 2 JANE. They offer some solid colors and some patterns - with a frequently expanding selection. I've used them for staging clients and have just ordered some for my kitchen backsplash.
special adhesion primer, then use an epoxy-based paint on the tile. If painting tile is a bit more than you want to do, try Tile Tattoos from

Paint the brick fireplace. You can do this one of two ways. To simply tone down the color, use a rag to lightly cover each brick, which will tone down the color but not cover it completely. If the fireplace is really unsightly, use a color that matches the walls.

Paint the cabinets. Talk about an instant update to kitchens and baths! Change the hardware and you've got a whole new - and updated - look!

Paint paneling. Nothing dates a home faster than old, worn paneling. For a simple update, use a milk-based paint to cover the defects. To get rid of the wood-look completely, fill in the cracks between the panels, then paint when dry. Hard to tell it's wood.

Use vinyl tile. If you have a floor that really needs updating, vinyl tile may be an easy, inexpensivesolution. Now available in many different styles, it looks like the "real" thing, as you can see in this sample from Armstrong.  If you are putting it over an old floor, just make sure doors can still open and close properly.


If this seems like a lot of work, break it into manageable chunks. The results will be well worth it!

Yellow is the Color of......

Yellow usually brings to mind the sun, happiness, energy. I remember sunny yellow kitchens of my childhood, with cafe curtains blowing in the breeze. I have friends who painted their yet-to-be-born babies' rooms yellow thinking it was a good solution when the sex was unknown. (Unfortunately it wasn't as yellow has too much energy for babies, keeping them from sleeping soundly.) But yellow has moved into the 21st century, becoming a sophisticated version of it's happy-go-lucky 50's self.

Because it's a primary color, it can be used with almost any other color, depending on the look, feel, and mood you are going for. Want to pair it with tried-and-true blue? One of the other primary colors, so of course it works! Orange? Wouldn't be a color without yellow! What rooms can you use it in? Whatever rooms you want! It certainly still works in kitchens. Look at this beauty from BHG! The style of the cabinets and the shade of yellow tells you this isn't your grandmother's kitchen.And the pop of orange shows you how well those two colors blend.

Courtesy of Better Homes & Gardens

And despite the high energy nature of the color, you can still use it in the bedroom. If you want serious yellow, you may want to select the guest room, where you can go all out. But even in the master bedroom yellow works very well, although smaller doses may help you sleep a little better. Why not pair it with something soothing like brown? The brown wall makes the room cozy while the yellow makes sure you'll face the day bright-eyed and bushy-taled (as my Grandmother used to say). And the white pulls it all together, bringing a sense of calm to the space.

Do you like yellow, but aren't sure you want a room built around it? Then use it as an energetic accent! This bookshelf adds just the pop this room needs! Seeing the neutral wall color behind the shelves keeps the room from feeling jumpy, while the yellow accents on the shelves and the table keep your eye moving. And there's that new take on "traditional" blue and white!

What if you do have your grandmother's furniture? Yellow can give it just the pop it needs to make it a focal point of the room. This beautiful Victorian chest looks wonderful when painted two shades of yellow. And it can be used in any room of the house! Certainly a bedroom, but what about an entry hall?What a way to welcome your guests! It would also work in the dining room as a small buffet, or in the kitchen to hold your linens, in the bathroom to hold your towels........wherever you use it, it's sure to bring a smile. Because that's what yellow does.

Want some more ideas about decorating with yellow? Check out my new board on Pinterest Not Your Grandmother's Yellow

Decorating Small Spaces

It seems the fever for McMansions is waning a bit. People are buying and building smaller. And downsizing is the name of the game, at least for Baby Boomers. But that can present challenges. First, buying smaller furnishings can be tricky, especially since everything looks smaller in a large furniture showroom, but probably isn't when you bring it home. So how do you make a small room work like a larger one without feeling cramped?

In a living/family room, get creative with the seating. While you may be tempted to buy a sectional,
that may not be the most effective seating arrangement. While several people can sit on a sectional, can they really do so comfortably? And sectionals generally have one way to be placed, which limits any other arrangements of the furniture. Instead use ottomans for seating flexibility. They can be used with chairs for more comfortable seating, as a coffee or side table (with a tray), or as additional seating when the need arises.


If you prefer a hard surface for your coffee table, use two smaller tables rather than one large one. This not only increases maneuverability in an otherwise tight space, they can also be moved easily around the room as the need arises. Or get really creative and use garden stools. They provide a flat, steady surface as a table, or additional seating if necessary.And notice the armless chairs. Another great space-saving idea.

There are other ways to make your furniture multi-task. If you need space for guests to sleep but don't have an extra room, use a daybed instead of a sofa - no need to have the space to open it (unlike a sleeper sofa). Instead of a bedside table, use a lowboy or small chest of drawers for additional storage. Cover a console table with a long tailored cloth to hide storage.

A few more suggestions........color and pattern are fine, but keep them to a minimum as they can go a long way in a small space. Use them in an accent chair, pillow, or rug. Let in as much natural light as possible, which means keeping window treatments to a minimum - and no dark colors! A strategically placed mirror (say, across from a window) brings in light while expanding space.

Like these ideas? Check out my Pinterest board Decorating Small Spaces.

Pillows - A Definite Decorating Statement

A design tip I often hear (and use) is to make a quick but dramatic change to a room, change (or add) pillows. As we move into spring and summer, using this tip can move a room from drab winter into bright sun. These beautiful pillows from Company C will brighten any room! The colors are divine.......and will go with almost any neutral. In fact, with a solid fabric, you can use them all together to bring summer sun into a room. Are you working with a lot of pattern in the room? Then use them to keep the color story going, while toning down the pattern.

Do you prefer patterns to solids? If the background is solid, don't hesitate to mix and match different patterns to create interest. See how these patterned pillows from Pier 1 in various shades of green enliven a beige sofa? To keep things from getting too busy when you have lots of pillows, try using a pair or two. Just keep the pairs at opposite ends of the sofa or on different pieces of furniture in the room.

Even outdoor furniture needs pillows. While it's probably a good idea not to compete with the landscape, simple pillows in subtle colors can add softness, comfort, and interest to outdoor furniture. Look how these pillows make this seating area more comfortable and cozy, while blending with the beautiful view.

Just a few simple "rules" to follow: odd numbers of pillows are usually a bit more interesting as are pillows of different sizes. Just don't have too many different sizes - two usually works fine. And don't forget about texture! Vary the textures of the pillows with that of the fabric they are on - and with each other. Then sink into the sofa and say "ahhhh". And if you like these ideas, visit my Decorating with Pillows board on Pinterest!

Mix It Up a Bit!

While I can't really say that contemporary decor is prevalent in the northeast, it is certainly true that clean lines are making quite a statement. And I love mixing a more contemporary look with furnishings that are a bit more traditional.

Jackson 2-Piece Chaise Sectional

Olivia Cocktail Table

I'm also thrilled that West Elm has opened a store in Westport, which means I no longer have to drive to Massachusetts to shop for reasonably priced clean-lined furniture. Their beautiful Jackson sectional fits with contemporary furniture as well as more traditional. Change the rug and pillows for something more traditional, switch the coffee table for something like this one from Ballard Designs and voila! A fabulous blend of contemporary and traditional. What's not to love?

Barrel Cbair

Sometimes all it takes is a statement piece.  Regency Shop has some fabulous furniture to do just that. Add one of their beautiful contemporary pieces into a more traditional room and you've got an interesting room, one that looks as if it's been put together over time.  This Barrel Chair ( a take on traditional Mission style) would look wonderful in a room with leather furniture, wouldn't it? Or what about this very contemporary Bertoia Chair surrounding a farmhouse table? Wouldn't that make a statement?

Bertoia Chair

So don't be afraid to mix it up! Add a little tension, a hint of edginess, and you've created a room that feels good, looks good and reflects you!

Bookshelves........Not Just for Books

Bookshelves play some sort of a role in most homes. Sometimes they have a simple function of, well, holding books. Strictly utilitarian, but very important. But that doesn't have to be the case. Why not add a little spice?

Bookshelves can be a great place to display collections - and not just family photos. Collections have more of an impact when they are displayed together, so why not distribute them throughout the shelves? Incorporate books as display stands, pay attention to colors and textures, and you can have a bookshelf as beautiful as this one designed by Emily Henderson.


Feel like your bookshelves are a little boring?Why not decorate the backs of the shelves with paint or wallpaper? Books and accessories will stand out beautifully and voila - no more boring bookshelf.

Design by Emily Henderson

What about making use of the front of the shelves as well? While you don't want to forget the function of bookshelves, hanging a piece of art on the front of shelves can be interesting - and can perhaps hide some of those not-so-pretty items stored there. Or better yet, perhaps this is an interesting place to showcase an interesting collectible. While you may not have anything quite likethis around your home, think creatively!

And don't forget about children's bookshelves! While these can provide invaluable storage for toys and books, make them colorful and fun.

Just a few tips to keep in mind when styling your bookshelves. It's a good idea to keep the  heavy items on the bottom. This keeps the bookshelves from looking like they may topple over. Put the prettiest books and accessories at eye level. These are the things you want people to really notice. If you have paperbacks, put them in baskets rather than displaying them on the shelves. And finally, if you have side-by-side shelves, try making the width of the shelves on each side vary just a bit. This can keep things interesting, as long as there isn't too much disparity.

Like these ideas? I've posted photos of my favorites on Bookshelves I Love on Pinterest so check them out!

Is Now the Time to Paint?

After the  holidays, our decorating often focuses on filling in the bare spots left by the removal of our holiday decorations. What about taking into consideration the paint colors on our walls? While we may not think winter is the time to paint interiors, with the wonderful variety of low and no VOC paints, there is very little odor involved. So you don't need to spend time in your beautiful new space inhaling paint fumes. And now you also have the help of a lot of websites, including Benjamin Moore. With their Color Stories, you can see a variety of tints and shades of colors you love put together in a beautiful gallery. Look at these gorgeous blues!

Color Pizzazz

Neutral Nuance

Sherwin Williams also designs Color Palettes for different styles of homes and lives. Here's their beautiful take on an upbeat passion for life called Color Pizzazz. Or if you prefer something a bit calmer, check out Neutral Nuance.

And there are plenty more colors, ideas, and websites to help you with your choices. What's important is that you love the colors surrounding you - and the paint colors you choose are a big part of that. So have fun - and make the colors surrounding you a reflection of you!