Design Tips & Ideas

 

  
 

So...here you are browsing the web looking for some ideas for a project you have been thinking about starting in your home.

Where do you start?  How do you pull it all together?

You want to do it yourself and are just looking for someone to point you in the right direction.

Well...here is some advice you might find useful to help you tackle that project.

Take Your Time

One thing is for certain… any space thrown together in a hurry…usually looks that way.  Impulse purchases, especially big ones, often become mistakes.  Once you make a plan…it is fun to fill in the blanks with the right paint color, finish, furniture and fabrics.  You will feel less confused and overwhelmed by so many choices and be more focused completing your plan towards a beautiful space. 

Do a little homework

If you are uncertain of where to begin…start with what catches your eye.  You probably know what you like but haven’t ever focused on what that might be.  For example, you may always be drawn to a certain color, or style from your favorite magazine.  Focus on those styles and colors, then search around to find other resources that provide examples of the style you like to help in your decision.

Start with what you have and cannot change

Kitchen cabinets, existing tile, room design, flooring, furniture - these may or may not be an element you have to start with in considering your design.  Almost anything can be changed, however your budget may be the determining factor in what goes and what stays.

Remember, Caromal Colours® finishes have changed many things that people thought they were “stuck with” - like kitchen cabinets, for example.

Make a wish list

If you covet red walls, a toile fabric, polka dots, gingham or plaid, add those elements wherever possible toward your goal.  Start with everything you would love to have...dream a little (or a lot!).  You can always whittle your wish list down later.

Create a storyboard

Story Board

   Gather every element for your space and lay them out together. Paint a large enough wall color or finish sample to lay all other elements on. If possible even paint a small piece of wood to represent your molding color. You will quickly see which elements that don’t belong. 

Consider surrounding spaces.  Few rooms are islands.  Most of them connect to other spaces.  Don’t back yourself into a corner designing one space that doesn’t flow into others.

Simplify whenever possible

You may consider some of the following:

  • Are there too many fabrics?
  • Are there too many colors?
  • Choose one color palette for all hallway areas of your home.
  • Choose one color on trim throughout.
  • Start in the kitchen.  This often creates a flow in the living areas of the home.
  • Choose Cabinets first, kitchen wall color second and branch out from there.
  • Choose neutral colors for all permanent items such as tile and counter tops.
  • Limit the number of floor choices thoughout your home to three.
  • Go crazy in the “dead end” spaces or spaces that don’t connect to other such as small powder rooms or bedrooms.
 

Most important - Have Fun!