Avoid a Decorating Disaster with these simple tips!
Having a master plan is essential to success. Often times a person will purchase an entire fuiture grouping because it is what they see in the fuiture showroom. If you think about it, that�s how most high ticket fuishings are marketed. Fuiture retailers want to sell you a sofa, love-seat, chair, accent tables and all the lamps in a grouping. The reason for this? They make MORE MONEY and the salespeople get to THINK LESS! This is an example of one size fits all decorating. In some situations this is fine, but It usually lacks character and personality. If you want to create a room that is unique and special... Here is a list of mistakes you can avoid.
Fuishings that do not fit the room.
This is the most important design element and should be addressed first. Many rooms contain too much "stuff" and make the space appear smaller than it actually is. Measure your room and bring the tape measure with you when shopping for large pieces. (Everything looks smaller in the store!)
Poor fuiture placement.
Often large pieces are placed too far apart. This does not create a comfortable, cozy conversation area. Consider creating two intimate seating arrangements in a larger room
The room does not function.
Besides looking good you will want to create a space you can live in. You will need to determine how the room is used and if there are any specific needs of family members or pets. Proper traffic flow is essential. You do not want to create a patte that constantly walks in front of the television!
Artwork hung too high.
This is quite common. The rule of thumb is to position the center of the piece 5 to 5 1/2 feet from the floor. (This applies even if you have cathedral ceilings.) Mirrors should never be in a dark coer. Instead place them adjacent a window. Remember what will be reflected and position items appropriately. Too many pictures on the wall. In this case, less is more. Think about what your favorite pieces are and showcase them! Remember it is a good idea to leave one wall void of accessories to create a resting place for the eye.
Improper lighting.
Often not enough light sources. This is common as many people will purchase two matching lamps and think they have decorated! (remember the fuiture showroom?) Essential to a properly lit room are General Lighting, Task Lighting and Accent Lighting.
Stuck in a the past.
Unfortunately, many of us are guilty of this. We may have items that were purchased twenty years ago. This is great if your theme is retro but if not, consider a few inexpensive purchases to update the decor.
Accessories out of balance or no theme.
Try to create a balance of high to low. Just as with floral arrangements, keep the items to groups of 3,5 and 7. Most importantly you should keep similar items together. Glass with glass, metals with metals etc. You will be amazed how this will work every time!
White walls.
Many people have a fear of color. They think that white goes with everything or have the mistaken idea that white walls will make the room appear larger. Don�t be afraid to try a bold paint color. It will dramatically change the feel of the room and enhance the decor.(see selecting the right paint color)
Good Luck and Happy Decorating!
Julie Rieman is an accomplished instructor in the arts of faux painting and interior redesign.. She offers two and four day classroom or online interior redesign training. If you live in the Twin Cities area, you can invite Julie into your home for a personalized consultation. For more information about any of her decorating services and training opportunities please visit http://www.allaboutredesign.com and http://www.allaboutwalls.net.
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