Baby Time!

I recently found out that I’m pregnant with my first baby (yay!) And, being the interior designer that I am, my first though immediately went to designing the nursery (even though I don't even know if it's a boy or girl yet!). I was of course concerned with some other things, but none more so than what that room would eventually look like. So I started my search. My home is contemporary, and I automatically knew that room needed to fit with my house somewhat. Plus, I’m not really into the “baby blue” and “cotton candy pink” thing anyway.

Then, something caught my eye that I had to have from Wallcandy Arts. The cutest removable & reusable owl decals I’ve ever seen! And the price is so reasonable. I can't imagine the cost to have an artist paint these. They look even better in person! If you haven’t checked out Wallcandy, definitely do so.



So, that made me automatically decide on my “theme” – a contemporary forest! Of some kind or another - I’m still working out the details. I’ll keep you posted on the progress! And of course, anything else I might find on my journey...

Pam K.

Very cool article!

“…New research in neuroscience hints at how our surroundings affect feelings and behavior. In the current issue of Scientific American Mind, Emily Anthes describes how ceiling height, colors and other design factors influence attention and creativity. Scientists are just beginning to address these questions, in part by studying changes in brain activity as subjects make their way through virtual reality rooms.”

“Researchers at the University of Rochester asked a group of interior designers to mock up cocktail lounges in red, blue, and yellow. Subjects were invited to have a drink wherever they liked. Most gravitated to the yellow and red rooms, which proved to be the most socially active areas. But the participants in the blue rooms stayed longer, presumably because blue has a calming effect. (In earlier studies scientists found lower heart rates in blue rooms.)”

Read the entire article here:
This Is Your Brain on Architecture

Lofty Goals

What is the best way to approach decorating small spaces?

In small spaces, every inch counts – so attention to detail is a must! By utilizing the following tips, you can maximize the amount of space you have.

1. Each furniture piece needs to serve more than one purpose. For example, an antique chest can be used as both a nightstand AND to store extra bedding.

2. Use a few large, interesting pieces, instead of many small items to keep the room feeling open and uncluttered.

3. A large framed mirror can add sparkle and visual interest, as well as help to extend the space.

4. Consider making use of your vertical/wall space. Wall-mounted shelving can provide extra storage for books, while still allowing the floor area below to be utilized.

5. A wall-mounted TV will eliminate the need for a bulky armoire.

Have a troubling small space? We can help!

Dining In - with style

Families are opting to dine-in more than dine-out in these tough economic times - and for good reason. However, a boring or bland dining room can make the idea seem less than appetizing.

We have some interesting ways to spice up your dining room and keep your family coming back for seconds:

1. Paint. This is the easiest designer trick to transforming a space. Use an appetite stimulating color, such as red, green, or brown.

2. Updating the light fixture will instantly brighten your space. Choose a fixture where the light bulbs face the ceiling so you’re not seeing an exposed bulb while dining.

3. Find a character piece to use as a sideboard or buffet. Even in contemporary settings, mixing in a few ethnic pieces will make the space come alive – and provide an interesting conversation piece for guests.

4. Choose a table that fits your family comfortably. There’s nothing worse than bumping elbows while trying to enjoy a wonderful meal.

Spring (or Summer already if you live in Phoenix!) Cleaning

Warmer weather gives us the perfect excuse to open all the windows, clear out clutter from our busy lives and view our rooms with a fresh eye.

To get started, remove everything except your large stationary items like sofas, chairs and tables out of the room. Remove all decorative items and artwork as well, it’s easiest to start with a clean palette.

A fresh coat of paint will do wonders for a room. Not only will the room be clean and fresh, the feeling of the room will dramatically change - with minimal effort and cost. Choose a color from your favorite piece of artwork, or from an area rug you absolutely love.

Then, try changing the placement of your large items that will remain. Get the furniture away from the walls. Experiment with angles and avoid the urge to line everything up on right angles.

Once you have everything where you want it, you can begin to bring back your existing decorative items – but remain objective! If there is an item that doesn’t fit into your new design scheme, but holds a great deal of sentimental value, use it in a guest room or den instead. Bring in new, fresh accessories such as new toss pillows for the sofa, for instant change.

But remember, less is always more – especially when it comes to Spring Cleaning!

Can't-Miss Ways...Day 5

Update the cabinet hardware in your kitchen or bath to give the room an instant lift!

Can't-Miss Ways...Day 4

Drapery panels will add instant softness, texture and color to your space. There are tons of fabulous, inexpensive pre-made options out there!