Re-Design Blog

The art of Re-design is not what you have, but placement with consideration of the architectural features of the room and its surroundings.

We start off by removing all of the accessories, including pictures on the walls, leaving only the large furniture pieces in the room.  We group the removed accessories in a side room or dining room table in likeness of color and texture.  For instance, candles together, pewter and silver, pictures leaning on a wall grouped by color, etc...

Now that we have a "blank canvas" the room is seen in an entirely new way, with primary focal points, architectural  features, room and wall shapes including angles readily identifiable. 

Next we "shop" the house, always asking the homeowner prior if there is a room or area of the house that is off limits.  We look for the hidden treasures including lighting, greenery, art, or collections that may not be in the current room.  We have even found covered antiqued furniture pieces in garages, attics, or in the yard.....nothing goes unnoticed.  Our job is to tell the story of the homeowner reflecting their sense of style.  It is our job to gather the pieces that will give the most impact in relationship to the room.

Now it's time to bring the furniture back one  layer at a time after we have placed the "bones" of the room.  (Large upholstered pieces).  Remember, we may have found a chair or table that will define our new space from another part of the house.  The key is to create converstation areas that are warm and inviting centered around the focal point of the room.  Creating angles with the furniture is always more interesting.  Think of the seating area as a diamond set within the larger rectangle of the room.  Follow the angle of the walls when placing the larger pieces of furniture.  Always sit in the funiture to  insure the distance for conversation is comfortable.

Area rugs, tables, accent pieces and plants are introduced next.  Plants breathe life into any room.  Glass tables tend to be cold, so by adding greenery you will immediately warm the space.

Lighting is critical.  Think of a triangle.......placeing the light throughout the room.  Using uplights on the floor at the base of trees will create balance and bring the eye up.  The room can come alive or fall flat if the lighting is not placed correctly.

Now it's time for the art work.  Pull it together with color.  A common color can unify different furniture and accessory styles.  Mirrors should be placed in entrys or when they reflect a beautiful view.  In rooms where there is seating, artwork should be hung at a height where it can be appreciated while seated, rather than "eye level" while standing.  Add interest hanging pieces lower than usual in relationship to a chair.

The accessories is the final and finishing touch in a room.  Think of the shoes and purse to complete the outfit.  Work with odd numbers to add interest, keeping it dramatic.  Create tablescapes and vignettes in shelfs with highs and lows when placing.   Keep the thread of color throughout the room adding pops of a accent color for interest.  Reflect the homeowners style with an element of surprise..........that's when your house becomes your home!

Now the homeowner walks through the front door and feels harmony within.

ENJOY!