Steps for that perfect room for spring
The advent of warmer weather seems to strike a desire in many people to redesign their home. Perhaps it is the hope of an easier style of living after winter's harshness combined with that hoped for tax return that has many people seeking out ideas to redo a room (or their whole house)! If you find yourself looking at your home and wishing for that done designer look here are some steps to take for that perfect room for spring-
|
|
- Figure out what the room will be used for. For many people space is at a premium and rooms have to multi-task. But if you have the space go ahead and delineate what a room will be used for. Ask yourself-Will you eat, watch T.V. or just relax in there? What a room is used for is one of the strongest cues on how to decorate it.
- Remember who lives there. While you may have an idea to decorate your living room in shades of white for that relaxed beach vibe if anyone under the age of 12 lives in your house (or you have an indoor pet) you may want to rethink your plan. While really great design is beautiful if it isn't practical for the people who live in your house it really is not worth it.
- Keep in mind that size does matter. One of the major mistakes many homeowners make when redecorating is not sizing the scale of the furniture to the room. While you can end up with doll-sized looking furniture in a large room more commonly most people think they have more space than they really do. They buy oversized furniture and it all ends up looking smashed together. Be sure that you measure several times before buying any furniture so that when you get it home it will fit.
- Go with your flow-You want continuity in your home. Most people find it disturbing and jarring to go from room to room each with its own color and decorating scheme. When you are planning a redo of a room it is important to think about all the rooms that touch it and continue the decorating flow throughout your home. Most design experts recommend trying to stay within a similar tone throughout your entire home.
- Have a plan-Designers tend to carry around complete portfolios of the rooms they design. You may not have to go such extremes but you will find that decorating is easier when you have all the fabric swatches, paint chips and flooring samples all together. In addition you may want to keep a list of what you have purchased, websites and catalogs you have browsed and ideas you come up with along the way in order to see a complete picture of the room you have envisioned and are working on.
- Shop around-For that really personal look you need to shop around. Instead of buying that complete bedroom set from the furniture showroom you may want to look like you put some thought into it, so it's not something you'll see in your neighbor's home. Experts recommend that the best way to accomplish your own unique look is to avoid buying matching furnishings from one store and instead, shop from a variety of retailers, auctions and flea markets. And keep in mind that you don't need to buy everything at once. You can establish a basic look and feel and let your style and décor evolve over the years. Also it is crucial to keep in mind that when you are shopping that form and function are equally important. You will never really want to relax on that rock hard sofa no matter how much you love how it looks or you won't use that computer desk if it isn't big enough to keep your stuff organized.
