Archive for July, 2009

Design Tip: Blending His and Her Styles

Lots of clients call us about blending their styles. It can be a fine line as well as an emotional process, but Room Redo can come to the rescue!

COLOR POWER

Consider both sexes when selecting colors. By blending his and her colors in all areas, including wall color, furniture, art and accessories, you will achieve a more comfortable balance.

SET THE MOOD WITH STYLE

Mood in a room can stem from many influences, masculine, feminine and gender neutral.  Whether you decorate with texture, deep colors, wood tones, lighting, glass, or metal, it’s nice to come home to a sumptuous space that blends both of your styles.

KEEP IT BALANCED

Don’t be afraid to mix styles.  Unify the room by working with what you already have then fine tune and pair down the look using similar color palettes.  Implement small portions of his and her accessories into the blend.  For example, a white desk for her and an iron candle stand for him.  Continue this balanced look using accessories that work for both sexes like mirrors, live plants, picture frames, clocks, books, and artwork.

COVER IT UP

If working with upholstered furniture that isn’t the right color or if the piece is in poor condition, consider using slip covers in neutral colors to make it work in the space.  This is a great way to cover up what you have and mix and match pieces of various styles.  And your favorite fixer upper—Paint!  Don’t be afraid to paint furniture to give it a fresh new look.

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Feng Shui Tip: Love and Romance

To attract more love in your life, adjust your environment accordingly. Dingy surroundings, piles of clutter, and self-absorbed artwork can actually drive Cupid from your door. Here, then, are some simple tips for finding love or to increase the passion in a current relationship.

Replace images of lone figures with pairs of items or couples:  Artwork has a tremendous impact on the subconscious. When you surround yourself with photos, paintings, sculptures and knickknacks of solitary figures, you’ll carry yourself accordingly. Replacing such images with representations of happy couples will make you more receptive to love.

Make Your ‘Relationship Gua’ a Shrine to Love:  using the front door of your home as a reference point, the far right corner of your home represents relationships and is known as the “Relationship Gua” in Feng Shui. Therefore, you need to keep this area intimate and inviting. A love seat illuminated with adjustable lighting is ideal for this special spot.

Even if the relationship area of your life is nearly perfect, these are still good design tips that can add coziness to your home.   If your bedroom lacks warmth, consider trying a few of these ideas.  And be sure to de-clutter!  Harmonious design is always a great idea and helps keep the energy flowing.

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Regional Refuge

If you’re tired of the same bland styles around your home or office, consider spicing it up! Here are 4 inspirations that can add an eclectic, rich flair to your space.

1. Asian Aesthetic: This approach combines the serenity of the natural world with the excitement of the eastern culture. Consider inspiration from the outdoors in both color and material. Natural stone, green moss hues, and bamboo are great starters to build the decor around. Next incorporate the boldness that gives Asia is flair–deep reds mixed with black, metallic, and patina finishes. 

2. Indian Interior: This approach also utilizes the beauty of the outdoors, but in a much more saturated, earthy manner. Search for ethnic prints, classified by bright colors and large-scale patterns. The use of metallic also applies here, especially in gold tones.

3. African Artistry: This approach is all about funky, bold patterns. Consider leopard and other animal prints to add an exotic touch.  Use fossils or horns to compliment the animal motif. Also look for intricate tapestries that showcase paisley, stars, or ironwork patterns. Look for grasses and metallic accessories to accompany lacquered wood furniture.

4. New England Niceties: This approach is the perfect combination of prep and sophistication. Different from the boldness of other regions, this style utilizes a deeper, darker color palette. Be inspired by beachy, whimsical sources. Use neutral browns and light greens to add balance and calming undertones. Use the motto ”rustic and warm” to direct your design.

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