Let's Get Our Act Together!

Welcome Back Blog Readers,

Now that it's time to wash the sand off from between our toes, close the beach home, get our kids organized for school and college to finally think about your home. The holidays that seem to be far away will creep up on all of us. It's time to start looking around your home and focus on the areas that need freshening up!

The first room naturally is your dining room. Take a look at your dining room chairs, see if the fabric needs to be re-upholstered. Look at the wallpaper in your dining room, if it's older, maybe update it, as there are so many new and exciting wallpaper designs. If it's painted, being the owner of The Four Walls naturally, I love wallpaper. It really adds personality to a room in a very economical way.

The next room that may need attention is your living room. Take a look at the fabric on your sofa, chairs, and window treatements. Maybe a splash of color and a new exciting pattern will lift your room. Also look at the walls. If they're painted, maybe update it with a stunning texture, such as grass cloth, that will add warmth to the room without being too overpowering.

Lastly, the area of the home that needs attention during the entertaining holiday season is the powder room. Remember this little forgotten room is just as important as any other space. Add a spark of an interesting color and bold design through wallpaper. Don't be afraid to go gutsy and interesting. It's such a small space that you can be daring!

So let's get your home in order. And as I always say, "Don't be afraid to decorate!"

Best Always,

Robin

 

Finding the right Interior Designer

Welcome Back Blog Readers,

Today’s subject is the importance of finding the best interior designer for you to work with. Being in the interior design industry for over thirty years, I have noticed clients trying to handle their projects on their own. The issue I have with this, is the fact of witnessing costly mistakes. When you choose a professional to work with you eliminate doing things twice. An interior designer’s help is critical because of the vast knowledge and designer resources they have at their fingertips that then become available to you, the client.

An interior designer will sometimes pass on a trade discount at the showrooms they do business with and charge separately for their time. Some of my fellow designers will charge a percentage, which is considered a commission on everything that is purchased. Others will also work on a flat fee, as no two design projects involve the same time. Fee schedules always vary based upon the needs of the client and the scope of the project.

Getting to the most important aspect is the fact that an interior designer’s knowledge of color, scale, style, practicality and design guidance is priceless. When choosing your design professional, it is, as I call it, “a design marriage.” The personality of your interior designer must also be considered. Remember readers, re-designing your home should be a fun, happy and an exciting experience!

For me personally, I have made several lasting friendships that started as a professional working relationship. I feel very fortunate to be in a field that I love!

So, folks, as I always, ‘Don’t be afraid to decorate!’

Best,

Robin

P.S. Remember, the holidays are coming up soon!