Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Simple switch makes a difference in your home

Here is a simple decorating tip to make your room look more professionally decorated:


Make sure the switch plates blend with your paint color.


This picture is of "what not to do".





When switch plates are a contrasting color (like above) they are more noticeable. They add an extra visual element to the room - aka clutter.


Solution: Paint or cover the plates to blend in. It is a simple switch (pun intended) that will make a difference in your home.

Monday, November 26, 2007

Decorating question from my mailbox.

Here is a question I recently received:

Is the hardwood floor supposed to match your kitchen cabinets ?

My answer:

I usually don't care for hardwood in the kitchen. Kitchen floors get really dirty. Being able to use a really wet soapy mop and strong cleaners are often necessary. Hardwood floors usually can't take that. The wood warps and discolors. I prefer ceramic tile. If you do really want hardwood floors in your kitchen I would go with contrasting, not matching.

Here are some photos:

Don't you think contrasting looks better? I think it is more interesting to look at.






If you have a question, sent it in! I would love to hear from you.

Friday, November 23, 2007

Bright colors do not sell

I have been quite busy lately with Home Staging Consultations. It seems that homeowners whose houses have been on the market since this summer are starting to panic.

"Why is my house still on the market? " they ask.

One of the most common problems is bright or dark color paint.

Quite simply: Buyers don't like dark and bright paint.

Here is an example:



Now maybe the Real Estate agent did tell the homeowner to paint the room and declutter but maybe not. The house will have a hard time selling with a room like this. Yes, this is a real house on the market currently right in my neck of the woods.