Top 10 Decorating Questions
1) I AM READY TO DECORATE MY HOME BUT WHERE DO I START?
Big or small, all decorating projects should start with a design theme or concept. It is very important to first determine an overall design style before making any concrete decisions.
2) WHAT ARE THE DESIGN TRENDS OR STYLES BEING USED TODAY?
Today there is no absolute design style, so almost anything is possible. Interior decoration reflects a movement that is original and eclectic. We are breaking design rules and mixing the old with the new while adding our own personal flair to our homes.
3) HOW WILL I KNOW IF MY PERSONAL STYLE IS THE RIGHT CHOICE ESPECIALLY WHEN I HAVE A HARD TIME MAKING A DECISION?
It can be very costly to make decorating decisions for your home and hope that it will magically come together. Now is the perfect time to clarify your look by gathering pictures from magazines and books that express what style you like. Create a home file of image clippings from magazines that reflect your style.
4) DO YOU HAVE EASY-TO-FOLLOW ADVICE FOR SELECTING PAINT COLORS FOR MY HOME?
Don't overdo your home with different paint colors for every room; determine your home's color palette first. As a guideline, start with one main paint color and work with two or three accent colors that you can use in different areas. Rooms that are open to one another should have a harmonious look, while rooms that have doors, such as bedrooms, offices, and bathrooms, can have their own color.
The key is to have something from each room that ties it to another to make the color transition a smooth one. Start with something in the room's decor you like, such as a picture, a rug, or a fabric patter, and choose a color that will complement it. For instance, if one of the predominant colors in your fabric is green, find a color that is similar in hue and value. Use a color fan deck to match that green, then darken or lighten the color in value to suit your taste.
5) HOW CAN I MAKE MY HOUSE FEEL MORE LIKE A HOME?
One way to add warmth to a home is by painting. We suggest working with a warm color palette with muted values. Add throws or cushions for color using exciting and exotic prints. Make sure your furniture layout is warm and inviting. Consider adding an area rug to personalize your home. Surround yourself with family photos and use baskets to organize your clutter.
6) HOW CAN I TELL IF I AM BUYING A QUALITY SOFA?
It is important to ask many questions when purchasing furniture. Your salesperson should have knowledge of the products he or she sells. If you are looking for a solid and sturdy piece, ask if the sofa frame is made of hardwood.
Most hardwood frames are constructed using dowels, screws (not stapels) and corner bracket supports so you are guaranteed a long-lasting investment. The eight-way hand tied coil springs method has more bounce, whereas the sinuous spring system give you a firmer sit. The key is to look for a well-constructed sofa that is layered with jute, felt and quality foam. If the frame of the sofa is well covered, whatever fabric you choose will be longer lasting.
7) HOW SHOULD I BEST DEAL WITH MY HOME'S DECOR WHEN I DON'T HAVE THE BUDGET TO BUY NEW ITEMS? DO YOU HAVE ANY INEXPENSIVE DECORATING IDEAS?
If your home is a mix of distressed styles and accessories, our motto is "less is more." Keep things simple by minimizing your accessories. Try to unify the space in terms of color by painting the home in a neutral color palette. Also, create a focal point so your eye does not bounce around the room. Consider buying an attractive inexpensive area rug that has a pattern and colors your like. Emphasize the qualities of the room.
8) WHAT STYLES OF WINDOW TREATMENTS ARE FASHIONABLE THESE DAYS?
Overdone window treatments are outdated. Simple treatments with clean lines and details ar the way to go. Chose a fabric that co-ordinates with your furnishings and accessories, or be subtle and blend your fabric selections with your wall color. Simple panels with clips, or a swag and rod treatment can be nice in almost any style of room. Roman blinds are also a good choice. They are sophisticated, streamlined and can look great especially as an inside mount treatment to show off your window mouldings.
9) WHEN AND HOW SHOULD I HANG MY PICTURES?
Always accessorize at the end of your decorating project. The best time to hang pictures is after you have determined your furniture placement. Hang pictures at eye level whenever possible. Think about scale and proportion when choosing picture size and composition. Look at the available space on the wall and evaluate it in terms of its shape. If the wall space over the sofa is rectangular, a rectangular composition will complement it. Visit our Decorating Ideas for more information.
10) HOW DO I CHOOSE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
Sheely's offers fabulous design service. Call our store for details.