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Decorating Tips
SPRING TIPS
Spring means a return of sunshine and crisp fresh breezes,
blooming flowers, and the fragrance of fresh cut grass.
A fresh coat of paint on the walls is a good place to start to
help make your home feel alive and revitalized . Some of the
hottest colors of the season are celadon green, purple,
combinations of red, white and blue (how about cobalt blue), and
coral (the new red for 2002). Also, why not experiment with
pastels...like pink and lavender. The spring neutrals that reign
this season are antique yellows, off white, brown and tan. And,
be daring...it's only paint and it's your least expensive and
most effective decorating tool.
The Bath
This season, monogram a set a white Egyptian cotton towels in
your favorite color for a classic look. Or if you can't find
towels to match your decor, sew a band of fabric or trim to the
edges. For that sophisticated all white European look, purchase
a waffle-weave shower curtain. Terrycloth is still a favorite
for covering bath chairs and vanity stools, it's also luxurious
in bathrobes and slippers.
Windows
Let the sunshine in! Replace heavy drapes with shears, cotton or
lace. For a spring look remove panels and add interest by using
a valance or simply revel the architectural element of the
Venetian blind.
Table Settings
Table lines should also be transitioned. Leave your tablecloths
off for a lighter look. If you prefer a cover, try using a
translucent sheer fabric, cotton lace, or summer chintz. For
drama, casually lay a table scarf across your table or counter.
This makes for an interesting table setting when entertaining.
Add two candlesticks and ..."viola," another exquisite
conversation piece for your home.
The Kitchen
Add fresh lemons or green apples to your favorite bowls and
baskets and display on an island or countertop. Colored glass,
Italian tile, and mirrored tile added to the backsplash of your
kitchen countertop are a few ways to update to a contemporary
look. Don't forget to de-clutter. In a small kitchen, one of my
favorite ways to disguise large, bulky appliances is to store
them in a BIG basket on top of the fridge.
Furnishings
Lighten up slipcovers. There are many inexpensive, lightweight,
ready-made covers available in lots of colors and styles. Heavy
wing chairs and recliners can be replaced with wicker and rattan
chairs. Roll up and store your area rugs. Replace with sisal or
canvas, or just leave the floors bare. Use pillows and throws
printed in French provincial themes, spring florals, brightly
colored plaids and checks, or solid pastels. Jungle themes are
VERY popular this season. Using anything with leopard, designs
with palm tress, monkeys or elephants, and pillows adorned with
accents such as embroidery, beading and mirrors will give
charming results.
Lighting
Rethink lighting. Buy a new lamp that's fun and interesting
(think of it as jewelry for you home). We all know that
sometimes it's the simplest accessory that can take an outfit
from ordinary to extraordinary. Make a statement...change your
lampshades. I think the best thing that has happened in home
accessories for 2002 is the beaded lampshade. Adding at least
one beaded lampshade in your home is a great way to spruce up
for spring.
Last but not least, add lots of fresh flowers and bulbs
to vases and pots, and display throughout your home. If you do
only one thing for spring...do this!
GET YOUR FIX...
Housekeeping Tips That Really Work!
Heavy Metal
Cut a lemon any shape and sprinkle liberally with table salt.
Rub this on your brass and it instantly shines!
Dust in the Wind
To remove dust and reduce static on your window blinds use a
damp dryer sheet - it smells fresh too.
Get the Sparkle Back
To remove the stain from the bottom of a glass vase/cruet, fill
with water and drop in two Alka Seltzer tablets. Oh what a
relief it is!
This Bud's for You
To prevent fresh tulips from drooping, put two pennies in the
bottom of a vase.
Ask Melanie...
I'm not familiar with the interior redesign process. Can you
tell me how it works?
On a typical redesign consultation, I first meet with the
homeowner to talk about their problems, expectations, and
specific needs. Maybe it's adding more warmth to a room, or
making a space more inviting, comfortable, or functional. Next,
I asses the furniture arrangement for balance and flow, and look
at the accessories and art placement. On my next visit I empty
the room and start rearranging. I may shop for additional items
(within the client's budget) to complete the transformation. The
design process for one room typically takes 3 to 4 hours. It's
like working a jigsaw puzzle - all the pieces are there - it's a
matter of knowing just where to place them that makes all the
difference.
Please send your design questions to
melanie@interior-revivals.com
Previous Tips
Pretty
up Your Mirrors in Minutes
8
Ways to Transform Your Rooms From Now to Wow!
Summer
Decor
Helpful
hints to prepare your home for market
Fall
Tips
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