Color Psychology

Have you ever walked into a room and thought, "I want to leave, but I don't know why".  That can happen when the wrong color is used in a space.  We are going to help you avoid this.

To begin we want to find out what your favorite paint color is or the color that you want to use in a room, but are a bit worried about using.  Then we will take the most popular comments and "answer" the them in our next color post.

We are EXCITED to hear your imput!  So, leave your comment and we could be discussing it the next time you read!  Hear from you soon.

Website Makeover

Hi Everyone!

We want to thank you for your support during our website makeover.  There will be a brand new post next week after all the major renovations have been completed.  It will be great, so you won't want to miss it.

Thanks!

Room in a Magazine!

We are extremely excited for our post today!  Any feedback from our readers is appreciated.  We want to know what you think about our newest posts.  So, make sure and leave a comment about your favorite piece of information shared!

The room that was chosen by our readers is room "A".

This room has a ton of awesome features and offers an excellent contemporary look.  Today, we are going to answer three important questions.  Which will help you achieve the look and feel of this room in your own home!

 Question number one:  What aspects make it clearly a contemporary style?

Answer:  Let's break the room down into two individual elements.  The first feature that catches the eye are the cleanlines of the cieling, furniture, and cabinentry.  Cleanlines are typical of the contemporary style.

The decor offers a modern feeling as well.  Not only do the accessories have cleanlines, but they are simple.  Even though they are simple they have class and aren't junk. The contempory style is clean and uncluttered.

Question number two: What makes it flow and harmonize so well?

Answer: The furniture isn't obstructing the walkways.  So many times we focus souly on the look and forget about function.  Function is key in making your room flow and harmonize.

 The surfaces aren't cluttered with stuff.  There is an apmle amount of decor to make the room feel homey and designed, but there isn't so much that it is suffocating.

 Question number three: How did they make the room appear light and airy?

Answer: The designers chose a bright, light color and used it multiple places in the space.  On the cabinents, ceiling, light fixture, table, and walls.  Now all white isn't for everyone, but use the same concept of applying light reflecting colors (not black) throughout your space.  By doing so, it brightens the room.

The other features they took advantages of, are the windows.  Utilizing that natural light allows it to be bright and airy without needing to add extra lighting.  This was accomplished by using minimal window coverings.  Such as blinds or blinds paired with light drapery panels or a valance.

Now take your favorite tidbits and incorporate them into your space, so you can love your room too.  Also, don't forget about letting us know what your favorite part of the article is.  As design lovers we always want to share, right?  We are excited to hear from you! 

Sign In

Sign in to vote

We want to THANK our readers for bringing an issue to our attention.  Something we didn't realize was that to leave your vote in the survey you needed to sign in to your blogger acount.

If you don't already have a blogger account, don't fre.  It is easy to create one.  To start the process Click here and it will take you to the sign up page.  After that it is just a couple of steps.  Then you can come leave your opion in our poll.

Readers THANK YOU for helping us out!

Don't forget to vote!!

There are two days left to vote for your favorite room!  Let you opinion be heard.  We added a survey on the right hand side, at the top.  Don't wait, choose your favorite now!!!

Room A

Room B

Extra give away!!!

We are giving away an extra design service and one sign up to our seminar ($25 value), this month. 

There was a technical glitch with the seminar and drawing entry forms, on our website.  When they were filled out the information was lost in cyberspace. If you filled out either one of them we would appreciate it if you would fill them out again.

Due to this inconvenience we are are giving away an extra service and one sign up to our seminar. Thank you for your support! Don't forget to fill out the forms for your chance to win!!!

http://www.yourharmonydesign.com/

Give us your opinion and check out our new blog layout!!!

With all of the awesome design out there we wanted to hone in on some of the aspects you are most interested in.  To do that, we have created a new blog layout.  We also wanted to make it more interactive, so we will be asking for your opinion and hope that everyone will participate.  Below is our new monthly schedule.


First Thursday: Decor Tip- Can range anywhere from wall decor, accessories, lamps, windows, accessory arrangement, really anything decor.


Second Thursday: Color Psychology - We will discuss how different colors make you feel and what rooms certain colors are best used in.


Third Thursday : Outfit to Room:  Many of us pull an outfit out of the closet or see one in a magazine and say "that is my style."  But, then we are left baffled at how to create a room in the style of an outfit.  We will help with the translation of outfit style to room style. 


Fourth Thursday: Room in a Magazine - You love looking at pictures in design magazine, but have no idea why all of the elements work together, what style it is, or how a room was made to have a certain feel (romantic, casual, formal).  We will dissect different aspects of rooms featured in magazines, so that you can recreate it at home.


Fifth Thursday: This will be a by week most of the time.  But, if we find a design issue that you are wanting to know about, and doesn't fall into one of the other categories, this is the week it will be featured. 


In preparation for next weeks blog entry we need your help.  Here are two rooms featured in design magazines.  In the comments please let us know which room you like best, "A" or "B".

A

B

We have archived the images and not sure which magazines they are from. But, we are not taking credit for their design or the photography.


Thank you everyone for your support and we are extremely excited for our new layout.  Let us know what you think!

Windows Part 6: Drapery's

For those of you that have been following our windows series, we are on the last installment. Today's post is all about drapery's.  We are going to help you decide what drapery is right for you. 

To decide if drapery panels are for you, ask yourself these questions.  First, how much room do you have on either side of your window?  If there isn't enough room on sides of the windows, panels won't fit.  Second, is obstructing the light coming from the window an issue?  If blocking any of the light is any issue than you won't be happy with drapes. Last, is it a safety hazard?  Such as above a stove where it could start a fire.  If you do have enough room, blocking some light is okay, and it isn't a safety hazard, than it is time to decide what type of drapery panels you need.  

First, do you want functional or stationary panels.  If all you need are the panels for the look and don't need them to keep out light or peeping eyes, then save some money, do a stationary panel.  A stationary panel is one that stays drawn to the side of the window the whole time.  It gives you the look without spending money on un-needed fabric.

Second, do you need full length panels or short panels.  If it is above a kitchen sink, in a bathroom shower, or where small children might get hurt or break the panels, then short panels would be the ones to go with.  But, if there are none of the above concerns, than full length panels would work great.

Now, once the length has been chosen you need to decide whether you will have a tie back or if they will hang straight, when drawn open.  It really depends on the look you want.  Tie backs can look more traditional, where hanging straight can be more contemporary. 

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Last, the style of your panels.  What most effects the style is the fabric and trim chosen, but also take the finish at the top into consideration.  Is it going to be a gusset (a pocket you put the rod through), pleated, rings clipped to the top, or tabs added.  Gussets and pleats are more traditional, rings more contemporary, and tabs country. 

Don't forget when choosing drapery panels to select the ones right for you.  Remember the panels don't have to be functional if it isn't necessary. Having stationary panels can save you money.  Make sure they aren't going to create a saftey hazard and they are a style you will enjoy long term.  

There is a ton of information on selecting drapery's and we can't fit it all into the post. We found this article by Southern Accents that gives more detail on some of the points we have discussed. Check it out.

Windows Part 4: Valances

Today we are going to answer your valance questions.  Like: "How long should a valance be", "What style is masculine/feminine?", and "What rooms to use different styles in?".  We aren't able to cover all valance styles, so we are discussing the ones that are most versatile.  Keep in mind that all of the valance styles can be used alone or with a drapery panel. 

When choosing a valance you want to make sure it is long enough.  Normally a valance is mounted four inches above a window (unless it is mounted inside the window moulding) and covers about eight inches of the window.  You don't want it to look like you ran out of fabric and the valance didn't get finished.  If it is too short it will break the flow of the space, and look unprofessional.  But, don't go overboard the other direction and turn your valance into a drapery panel that covers the whole window.
 
The first style is of the basic box pleat valance.  It looks just as it names describes, like it could be going around a box.  The basic box pleat looks clean and sophisticated.  Having the clean lines makes it either feminine or masculine.

This basic box pleat goes well in master bedrooms, kitchens, great rooms.  Really any room you can think of.

Here is an example of a more boyish style, box pleat valance.  It would compliment a young boys bedroom well.  Adding that softness to the window with out being girly. The magazine feature also talks about it being used in a playroom. 

Now this is one of our favorites.  It is a more whimsical box pleat with the curves at the bottom.  Due to the curves it has more of a feminine feel to it.  This style would go well in a teenage girl's room or a fun craft or hobby space.  The use of the curves gives it a girly feeling without making it feel juvenile. 

The pencil pleat valance is the final style we will be talking about today.  Pleating the valance gives it amore feminine feel with out making it look fruffie and outdated.  Adding this valance to a living room, girls bedroom, or even a nursery can add a bit of style with out going overboard.

For more great valance ideas check out House Beautiful, Southern Accents, and Country Living.  They all offer great ideas with visuals.  Helping you picture what it will look like in your space.

Remember when choosing that it isn't too short or too long.  You want it to look professional and complete the space.  Also, don't forget to choose the style the compliments the room it is going in.  So, don't choose a feminine style for a boys bedroom.


The images come from the House Beautiful magazine's feature of "Jim Howards pattern book of valances".

Windows Part 3: Types of treatments

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This is part three of our window series. Last week it was all about window coverings: blinds, shades, and shutters. This week it is about window treatments: Drapes and valances. There is so much information to cover on this subject, today we will discuss the basics. Where to use these and then the last two entries of this series will be about specific details of each.

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Let's start with drapes. Drapes are typically panels of fabric and can be used many places. They also come in a variety of styles.

Hang floor length panels in:
-Offices

-Bedrooms

-Sliding glass doors

-Living/Family Rooms

Hang short panels:

-Above kitchen sinks

-Above a couch

-Bedrooms

-Bathrooms

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Make sure when you hang drapery panels that they are not too long or short for their location. If the panel is going to be stepped on or played in by kids, maybe it isn't the best choice. Always take into consideration what the end result will be before choosing your panel length. You want style to harmonize with function, not one or the other.

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Now for valances. They can stand alone or be paired with drapery panels. Pairing a valance with a drapery panel adds more depth to a room. But, you want to be sure not to over do it. Sometimes a stand alone valance is the way to go. It softens the window and adds a pop of color and can be functional. Where panels would be to long or a safety hazard, a valance can takes its place.
Stand alone valance:

-Above a kitchen sink

-Bathroom shower window

-Windows that are close to fire places

Paired with drapery panels:

-Living Room

-Office

-Great room

-Bedroom
Remember to evaluate each space individually when selection window treatments. Even though a panel may fit your style, don't forget about safety. Don't be afraid to try a variety of treatment styles through out your home, just make sure it flow harmoniously.

Windows Part 2: Types of window coverings

Last week we talked about basic reasons windows get ignored. This week we are discussing the different types of window coverings.  This way you can decide which one is right for you.

Blinds are the first window coverings that come to every bodies mind and for good reason.  The right set of blinds can enhance the look of a room and properly keep light and peering eyes out.  It can do all of this for a reasonable price.

 Now the least expensive blinds are the thin vinyl or aluminum ones.  We do not recommend these.  They don't look as aesthetically pleasing, not as much light is kept out, and the slats break more easily.  Our recommendation is faux wood.  They are heavier, much more eye catching, higher quality, and won't break your budget like real wood will.

Whether you decide to go with faux or real wood blinds, keep in mind, you most likely will still want to add a window treatment.  Such as a valance or drapes.  Window treatment will be covered in next weeks post.

There are variety of places you can purchase blinds.  Lowes, Home Depot, many department store, and many online stores.  The blinds pictured at the right are from blindbarn.com. 

When purchasing blinds it is important to measure correctly.  There is so much information when it comes to measuring for blinds; we have found two great websites that have step by step lists on how to measure for blinds. No Brainer Blinds and Lowes.



Roman Shades are another covering options.  These are shades that are hung like blinds, but are made out of fabric.  They add that bit of style and a little more color and pop to a room.  Many times with roman shades you don't need window treatments, like drapes, but sometimes they can enhance the shades. 

We had a client email us this HGTV video about window treatments and it specifically talks about roman shades.  It gives an awesome idea on adding drapery panels to windows with roman shades. 

Shutters, the last type of covering we are going to talk about, today.  There are two type of shutters: traditional and plantation.  Traditional shutters give a traditional feelings and plantation shutters offer a country undertone.  Theye have many differences, so take a look at this link.  It will help you decide which is best for you.
They can be used in any room.  Shutters come in all sizes for a variety of window shapes and styles.  When shutters are used, typically a window treatment is not added.  They make an awesome statement by themselves and don't need any type of drapes to help them out.

This video by TheCaliforniaCo gives awesome instructions on how to measure for inteior shutters

These are the three most popular types of window coverings.  There are many other types available, but most of them are variations of these three.

Remember blinds are the most versatile, but that shutters and roman shade can add that extra pop of style.  Always measure correctly, or you will have much chaos when you get the coverings home and they don't fit.  Never be afraid to spice up your windows with a new type of covering.  You will be amazed at your rooms transformation.

The icing on your windows

Photo from House Beautiful

Windows, the element of a room that seems to throw everything off.  If you have ever decorated a space, you know what I am talking about.  It appears that all of the finishing touches have been added, but something just doesn't feel right.  That is likely because the windows have been forgotten.

This is part one, in a multiple part series, to help remedy this problem.  Adding design to your windows is like adding icing to a cake.  The cake looks okay un-iced, but man does it look better with icing. 

Today's post is about the reasons people draw a blank when it comes to design and windows.

Complaint:
"I don't want to lose my light" (number one reason)

Answer:
This is a valid complaint, but keep in mind that most of us don't live on a deserted island. That means we have neighbors.  Do we want those neighbors peering in at us as we are sleeping?

So, having some sort of covering is not only icing, but functional, too.  Some of the options you have for covering that let in light are: blinds, shutters (no they are not just for exteriors), roman shades, and the list can go on. Check out this website to the plethora of options :http://www.yourblinds.com/.

Complaint:

"My spouse thinks it will look to feminine/masculine."

Answer:

This can be the case if you don't use the correct treatment for your needs and style.  But, don't worry there are so many options there is one that will work for you. 

In the coming installments we will discuss how to find a balance.  So, stay tuned.

Complaint:

"I have to have drapes with my other window coverings, such as blinds, right?"

Answer:

No. Not in all cases.  It depends on the window covering you have chosen.  Majority of the time we recommend window treatments with blinds, but if that isn't your style, then you can choose a different window covering. 

For instance, if you have shutters or roman shades we most likely wouldn't recommend window treatments.  Though these options aren't for everyone.

In another episode of this series we will discuss what coverings need complimenting window treatments.

If you would like more one-on-one customized professional design help, click here.

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These are some of the major complaints we receive about window coverings.  We hope this and our coming installments will help to calm any window covering fears and leave you free to add the icing to your "cake"

If you have other concerns about window covers, please let us know at questions@yourharmonydesign.com.

Splash of color

COLOR! It is an aspect of design that can make a world of difference in any space. For those that are looking to add a little or a lot of spice to a room, color is the answer.



When we talk about color, most people think that means painting. Good news! You can add color with out picking up a paint brush.



One of our favorite ways to add a pop to any room are accent pillows. They come in many shapes, styles, and designs. It makes it such a versatile accent. They can be placed on a bed, sofa, or chair.

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Another awesome décor item are lamp shades. They don't have to be plain Jane white or cream. Mix it up with a colored one. Shades come in different fabrics, shapes, and colors. It is unbelievable what a lamp shade can do for a room.

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Last, how about trying a colorful piece of art. A colorful art piece can not only add the needed pop, but can also become a focal point. This is the best kind of accent. One that does two jobs. Just because art is colorful, doesn't mean it is abstract. There are many traditional and contemporary pieces that with more intense color.

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Remember, color doesn't have to mean picking up a paint brush. It can be adding accessories to your space, to achieve the amount of color and pop that is perfect for you. So, don't be scared about giving it a try. I know once you do, you will love it.

Treasure or Trash....

Garage sale season is here once again. For those that like to frequent them, treasures can be found. But, as many find out, more trash is discoverd than treasure. Sadly we don't realize it is junk until we have spent the money and have gotten it home. To help avoid "garage sale remorse" take a look at the checklist below.



We have compiled a checklist that can be taken to any garage sale, to help identify what is trash and what is treasure. The first four topics are from the Family Circle magazine. The last two are items are ones we added.


* Priceless antique: Unless you are quite knowledgeable about the antique world, don't buy items marked "priceless antique". Most of the time they aren't antiques


*Work in progress: If the item is something that needs to be refinished, fixed, etc. don't buy it unless you already have the skill to fix it. If you don't already have the skill needed, it will most likely sit on a shelf in your garage. Never to be seen again.


*Does it work: Before you buy a lamp or any electronic item ask if there is an outlet you can plug it into. You don't want to get it home and to find out it doesn't work.


*Clean or Dirty: When buying furniture of any sort check for bedbugs. Look along the seams for black specs (this is the bedbugs droppings). If you see evidence of bedbugs don't buy the furniture. After inspection if you don't see evidence of bedbugs, before taking it in your house spray it with bedbug spray. This helps kill them.

*Sturdy: Before buying furniture make sure it isn't about to fall apart. No one wants to spend money on an item that is about to break.


*Gem buried in time: If you see a furniture piece, lamp, or anything else that looks like it has an inkling of hope check it for layers of paint. Sometimes wonderful pieces of furniture or decor have been painted so many times there true beauty is hidden. But, when doing this remember the "Work in Progress" rule.


Remember when looking for those treasures, make sure they are actual treasure before taking them home. There is nothing worse than spending money on an item, getting excited about it, and then taking it home and realizing it isn't what it seemed to be. Avoid "garage sale remorse" by taking this check list with you.

Bathroom remodeling-Simple to Complicated

Do you hate moving, but want a change? Here is a solution. Remodeling. Today it is all about bathrooms.



You say the word remodel and your husband (or wife for some) goes running for the hills. Here is some good news, remodeling doesn't have to be a horrible experience. The great thing about it is you get to choose how big or small the project is.



For your bathroom here are ideas that range from small to large projects.



-Changing your mirror from the “normal” bathroom mirror to one that is in a frame and hang it above the vanity. Ikea, Pottery Barn, and Pier 1 are just a few of the stores that have some awesome framed mirrors.



-Replacing your counter top and sink. Sometimes updating your counter top and sink can be that needed change.



-Painting your bathroom. A fresh coat of paint and possibly a new color does wonders for your space.



-On a larger scale replacing the flooring. A great bathroom flooring product is tile. There is a large variety to fit all styles. When putting tile in your bathroom make sure to choose one that is made for bathroom flooring. Otherwise there is a greater risk of people slipping and falling when it is wet.



-Then there is the full bathroom remodel. Changing the shower walls, possibly to cultured marble or tile. Replacing the cabinetry, counter top, sink, and flooring.

For more bathroom remodeling ideas check out this House Beautiful link.



Remember remodeling your bathroom doesn't have to be a horrible experience. It can range from simple to complicated. You choose which works for you.




If you have any remodeling tips please email them to questions@yourharmonydesign.com or comment on the post.

Outdoor Porch Face Lift

You might be wondering what a porch has to do with interior design. Well, there are many people that use their porch as dining room during the spring and summer. Why shouldn't it have the same harmonious feel as your indoor dining room, since you are spending a lot of time there.


Here are some great ideas, featured on BHG do it yourself for changing your outdoor patio into an amazing dining space:


-You can hang panels of burlap around the whole area to enclose it and give it a more personal feel. Check out the picture at top from BHG do it yourself.

-If there are columns at regular intervals you can hang wire and put up Chinese paper lanterns or jars with candles it. Gives a wonderful intimate feel.

-An idea from BHG do it yourself is getting a gazebo and putting it up. Offers ease and flexibility in the design.

-If wanting to add a canopy, but want it low key, check out this picture from BHG do it yourself.

These are just a few ideas to make your porch a wonderful, intimate gathering place. When you implement anyone of them you will be pleasantly surprised with how much more you enjoy using your porch. To see more of these great ideas from BHG do it yourself click here.  Another great place to check out is a A Punch of Color blog. 


Also, if you have any great ideas for morphing your porch into a great gathering space email them to questions@yourharmonydesign.com

Grand Openning-Your Harmony Design

You have been following the blog and learning about design options for your space, though at times not sure exactly what your space needs.  That is where Your Harmony Design Website can help

Your Harmony Design is "Providing Professional Interior Design Services at an Exceptional Price".  The services range from full service design to aiding in paint and color selection.  Check us out at http://www.yourharmonydesign.com/.

Give your mom a great Mother's Day gift.  Now through May 9, 2010 it is 10% off any service ordered.  Including Face to Face consultations.  For online services at check out use code mothersday2010.

Spring and Design

"Photo". Flowers. Better Homes and Gardens 2010. 15 April 2010 <http://www.bhg.com>

Hooray ! Spring is finally here. For most of us this means opening the windows to let in the spring air, spring cleaning, and watching flowerbeds come alive. For design it means a fresh new look with a few simple additions to our space with spring inspired ideas.

Start with adding a fresh vase of flowers to your table, shelf, or mantle. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate, some fresh cut stems from your garden add that perfect touch. A tablecloth in a spring a color; spring green, lavender, pink, white, to cover your table with will brighten your space. Giving it that fresh spring feel.

Check out these ideas from Better Homes and Gardens for brightening your space for spring. First, replace heavy draperies with lighter window treatments and second, place spring colored throw pillows on your furniture.

"Photo". Room. Better Homes and Gardens 2010. 15 April 2010 <http://www.bhg.com/>

 

Don’t forget to take advantage of spring and all of the wonderful décor opportunities it offers. Adding spring touches to your space makes your home feel fresh and alive. You will be amazed at how wonderful it makes your rooms feel.
 
 
Questions or topics you are interested in email questions@yourharmonydesign.com.

Customizable Shelf

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Have you been looking for decorative ledge shelving? But, just can't find the style you want. The solution is here.


Here is a customizable ledge shelf. You use a piece of crown moulding from the hardware store. The wider the better. This is quick and simple project if you want to do-it-yourself.



-Go to the hardware store and choose your crown molding.


-Have it cut the length you desire.


-Then choose the finish you want. A couple of finish options include paint (gloss, semi-gloss, flat, metallic) or staining.


-Pick-up the appropriate hardware and hang it on the wall. Make sure to purchase hardware that will hold the right amount of weight. You don't want to get your project done and then have it fall down.



Now if you want a pre-made ledge shelf there are a variety of places to purchase them. Pottery Barn, Pier 1 Imports, Ikea, and Target just to name a few.



This is a great idea for any space. It allows you to get a shelf that fits your style perfectly.



Have questions or topics you are interested in email questions@yourharmonydesign.com.

Tile Backsplash

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Have you ever wanted to make a design change to your kitchen, but a full remodel was out of the question. Good news, you don't have to do a full remodel to make a great looking design change to your kitchen. A new tile backsplash can do the trick at a much lower cost.

One wonderful thing about tile backsplashes is you can custom design it to fit your style. The only limitation is your budget. The other great part is you can hire a third party to install it or your can do-it-yourself.

When deciding on your backsplash design:

-First, decide how high you want the backsplash to go. Majority of the time they go from top of counter to bottom of cupboard, but they don't have to.

-If doing it yourself take thorough measurements of the backsplash area and calculate amount of tile needed before going to purchase it. This way you don't get home and realize you didn't purchase enough. To calculate the amount of tile you will need take length (in inches) times height (in inches), divide by 12, and then divide by 12 again. This gives you the area in square feet.

-Third, draw the design of your backsplash to scale. Decide what tiles you are going to use. Square, rectangle, rhombus, or circular. This way you know the amount of each tile type you need and if the tiles you want to use will fit in the space available.

-Last, look at your design and take into consideration the color and style of the tiles and be sure they fit the style of you kitchen. You don't want to complete the project and then realize it clashes with the rest of the space.

-For some more basic tile backsplash information check out this do-it-yourself website.

Here are some backsplash examples from a variety of design websites.

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Remember when deciding on a tile backsplash the skies the limits. You can either hire a third party to install it or you can do-it-yourself. If you decide to install it you can pick up a book on installing tile at your local hardware or bookstore. When your done don't forget to sit back and enjoy the finished project. I promise it will be worth all of the work.

Have questions or topics you are interested in email questions@yourharmonydesign.com.

Headboards...A crucial element for the design of your bedroom

Headboards are a key element to giving your bedroom that finished look. But, where to find that perfect one and what to do if you can't find that ideal headboard.

There are many resources where you can start your search for your headboard. Listed below are a few places to begin.


http://www.potterybarn.com/


http://www.overstock.com/


http://www.headboardsource.com/


http://www.pier1.com/


When looking for that perfect headboard make sure you don't end up with buyers remorse by asking yourself these question.


What is the headboard made out of?


Is it a quality material?
The type of material you want is determined by how long you want the headboard to last. If you only want it to last a year or two than a lesser quality product would fit your needs. Where if you are wanting to last for a longer period of time a higher quality material would be best.

Will the headboard fit your bed and in the available space?
It is always best to check this before purchasing, otherwise you could be disappointed when you get it home.

Is it the perfect headboard (or sometimes, as close as you can come to perfect)?
When asking yourself this question think about whether it fits the style of the room and if it harmonizes with the other colors and finishes in space.

For more hints on choosing a headboard look at this Southern Accents article. It discusses what size your headboard should be and benefits of headboard slipcovers.

After going through all of your headboard resources if you still can't find a headboard that fits your style or price point, or both you can have one custom made. Or if you are looking for a project you can create one yourself. It does take a little time, but you can get exactly what you want.


Here are a few of my favorite do-it-yourself headboard ideas:

Better Homes and Garden shows this idea where they took two windows, spiced them up, and used them as a headboard.

This Better Homes and Garden headboard offers a more romantic style.

Then this  Better Homes and Garden headboard idea discusses how to make your own upholstered headboard.

HGTV.com also offers tips on how to create a three-sided upholstered headboard.  







Remember when are looking for a headboard to ask the right questions so you don't have buyers remorse.  Also, if you can't find it in stores or online there are many options to have one specially made (by a third party or yourself) to get that ideal headboard.

If you have questions or topics you are interested in email questions@yourharmonydesign.com

Adding life to your space

So, you have gotten a start on the interior design changes around your home. Found the accessories you love. Arranged the furniture so it is perfect, but it still feels as if something is missing.


For many spaces that missing element is a plant. Having either a real or fake plant, whether it been cut flowers in a vase or a small indoor tree, it can be the finishing touch that a room needs. A plant adds a little bit of life to a space and makes it more inviting.


Now there is a fine balance when accessorizing with plants. First, choose the right plant and container for the space. If your space is contemporary in style and you choose a more country flower, such as a sunflower, it will take away from the harmony of the space. Second, don't over do it. Make sure not to put to many plants in your space, otherwise it will have the opposite effect that you want.


If you are wanting ideas of what plants and containers to use, a place to start is by looking at design magazines and websites. Many of the pictures I have posted in past entries give some great examples of kinds of plants and containers you can use to accessorize.

Click Here

Also check out these other design magazines. Southern Accents, Country Living, and House Beautiful. Many of there home pages have pictures that plant accessories in a designer space. Also, check out other articles on the sites and you will find a plethora of examples.

If you have any questions or have topics you are interested in please email questions@yourharmonydesign.com.

Inspiration and where to find it

Here you are wanting to make changes to your home interiors, but the perfect idea hasn't come to you yet. It leaves you wondering where to find that inspiration needed for your space. Finding a creative starting point can be the hardest part of designing a room, but man once you do, the idea takes off at lightning speed.

One place I like to look is my favorite piece of furniture, accessory, or art piece that is in the space and use it as a jumping point. Recently I was helping a client with accessories for her living room. I asked if she had an idea of what accessorizes she was in the market for, to get an idea of size and scale. She wasn't sure, but there were two pieces of décor my client was partial to. A picture of magnolias and a statue of a giraffe that sat on her mantel. We used this as a inspirational place to start and were able to find some awesome accessories for her living room. Never underestimate where one small piece of décor can take you.

The other place I like to look for is in the small or big details I fall in love with. A while back I was in Europe visiting the Eiffel Tower. While standing very close to it I looked up and saw how awesome the small details of the construction were and that sparked my creative juices.

But, don't think you have to be far away from home to get inspired. For me the color of leaves in the fall help inspire a color palette for projects. So, always be prepared for that design spark, you never know when it could hit you.

When looking for inspiration don't think to hard you will just give yourself a headache. Instead think of the décor and details that you love and go from there.

If you have any questions about finding inspiration for a project or design topics you are interested in email questions@yourharmonydesign.com.