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Color of the Year 2024: Here’s what the leading brands suggest

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As every year, in the autumn, the major brands in the color industry make their suggestions for the color of the upcoming year; let’s see what the proposed for “The Color of the Year 2024” are!

– BENJAMIN MOORE – Blue Nova 825

This year, Benjamin Moore proposes a color that is actually a blend of blue and purple, an intense color described by the company as “inspired by the brilliance of a new star formed in space.”

Being part of the blue spectrum, it’s a soothing and, undoubtedly, very elegant color!

Andrea Magno, the Director of Marketing and Color Development, described the color as “a seductive mid-tone that balances depth and intrigue with classic charm and reassurance.”

It’s a color that can also be used on walls, but one should be mindful of the house’s orientation.

If the room faces north, it might be better to avoid using it on all walls, as it could become a bit gloomy and chilly.

Once again, Benjamin Moore offers a complete color palette to pair alongside Blue Nova 825.

This palette can be used in its entirety or selectively.

It’s a dynamic palette because it contains both warm and cool colors, light and dark!

– SHERWIN WILLIAMS – Upward

Sherwin Williams also opts for a shade of blue described as “airy and blissful.”

It’s a truly relaxing, bright, and energizing color!

Being very light and delicate, one can use it on all walls.

Upward is a color that pairs well with all styles and can even be used to give a fresh look to some furniture.

However, it’s a cold color, so it’s a good idea to warm it up somewhat with some warmer colors and perhaps some wood accents!

Here’s an interesting tidbit: Sherwin Williams collaborated with the French pastry chef Dominique Ansel for his vegan cronut filled with rice milk and glazed with dark chocolate, both made with butterfly pea flowers, a flower whose shade reflects Upward!

Sherwin Williams also offers a color palette you can pair (one or even all of them) with Upward.

These are colors that draw inspiration from the hues of nature, creating enveloping and relaxing environments.

– PPG – Limitless

For 2024, PPG proposes a warm and enveloping neutral color that, as the name suggests, can be used without limits!

It’s a sunny and energizing shade that one can apply to all surfaces and complements various styles.

As is the tradition, PPG also offers three types of color palettes:

– Volume I

It consists of calming hues and tones paired with earthy shades and cooler tones; it aims to represent the exploration of the world and harmony!

– Volume II

This palette consists of earthy and natural greens alongside warm, floral tones with some touches of vibrant blues and deep neutrals.

It symbolizes the transformation of the world with wonder and amazement!

– Volume III

These colors draw inspiration from the Baroque and Renaissance periods, Art Deco, and Pop Art, remarkably combining them.

In some sense, it’s a palette that speaks to challenging and reinventing the world!

– BEHR – Cracked Pepper

This year, Behr presents the exact complementary of last year’s color by proposing a black!

However, it’s not a pure black that might feel a bit dark; instead, it’s a soft and enveloping charcoal black that actually adds an extra dimension to spaces.

It’s a timeless color that fits well with every style, “awakening the senses and exuding confidence”!

It’s a versatile color that one can use as a neutral in any room of the house.

Like the other brands, Behr also offers a color palette to combine with its Cracked Pepper.

In this palette, you’ll find whites, neutrals, and pastels, accompanied by some bolder and more energetic colors, all inspired by nature.

– SIKKENS – Sweet Embrace

Sikkens’ Color of the Year for 2024 is a very delicate and soothing hue “inspired by soft feathers and the subtle evening clouds.”

It’s a dusty pink with a subdued beige-gray undertone that creates intimate spaces and atmospheres that exude calm and stability.

This color is a neutral and can be used in every room of the house, complementing any style!

Similar to last year, Sikkens offers three color palettes to accompany Sweet Embrace:

– Warm Colors

These are natural earth tones to create environments that harmoniously connect with nature, establishing cozy and reassuring atmospheres.

– Calm Colors

There are various shades of green and blue; these colors help create relaxing environments, making them well-suited for studies and offices.

– Uplifting Colors

This palette is decidedly more vibrant, thanks to the yellow-leaning colors.

Shades of blue and violet serve to refresh the palette, making it youthful and dynamic!

What’s your favorite color?

Tell me in the comments!

I hope you found this article helpful and enjoyable. If you did, please let me know in the comments again!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested; I would be honored, and it will help me get noticed.

If you feel that your home or any part of it doesn’t reflect you enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

 

Do you love colors? here is the color playlist on my YouTube channel!

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Decorating a Living Room: 6 Common Mistakes

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Today, I’d like to talk about the living room and discuss 6 common mistakes we could probably make, how to avoid them, and how to fix them to create a beautiful, inviting, and comfortable space.

The living room is where we go when we want to unwind, read a good book, watch TV, or enjoy the company of friends and family.

It’s crucial, therefore, that it’s inviting and comfortable so we can release the accumulated stress and relax!

Some mistakes can significantly impact our spaces, making them appear somewhat dull.

Let’s see what they are and how to fix them!

1 – FURNITURE ARRANGEMENT

As mentioned earlier, the space must be inviting and comfortable.

In other words, as soon as you step through the door of that room, you should feel like leaving all your worries behind!

To achieve this, the arrangement of the furniture is crucial.

You should arrange everything to support all the activities you want to do in that room: conversation, reading, watching TV…

As mentioned before, it’s paramount to identify the main activity and arrange everything else around it!

Pay attention to the distances!

To place everything against the walls, creating excessive distances between one element and another, is a most common mistake.

The elements shouldn’t appear isolated but feel like they belong together to make the space cohesive and inviting.

That’s why using a rug to tie the furniture and accessories together is paramount.

If the living room is large, create multiple areas, perhaps one for the TV and another for conversation.

If the space is small, try to arrange the elements uniformly and cohesively again to facilitate potential conversation, even if the primary function is watching TV!

(credits: thisisnick.com; theblushhome.com)

2 – PAY ATTENTION TO SHAPES AND MATERIALS

The choice of sofas and seating will make a big difference, both in terms of shapes and materials!

You need to be mindful not only of the aesthetic aspect but also of comfort and materials that are easy to clean!

When it comes to comfort, be careful not to go overboard.

If the seats are so reclined that you’re almost lying down, it doesn’t favor conversation when you have guests over!

As for materials, they should be easy to clean to avoid having to use unattractive sofa covers.

To make the living room even more inviting, remember to add some cushions, which not only serve as decor but can also be functional by providing additional back support if needed.

Also, put on a few blankets to make everything softer and cozier.

Of course, avoid using wool in the summer, but a colorful cotton or linen blanket has its charm even in the warmer months!

(credits: Margaret Boatner; whitepicketfarmhouse.com)

3 – PAY ATTENTION TO THE TV

In recent years, large televisions hung on the wall have become common.

It’s essential to pay close attention to the distances and the TV’s height to maintain proper comfort.

Depending on the distance between the sofa and the TV’s position, you can determine the appropriate size for it.

That is necessary to prevent eye strain, which is already prevalent caused by computer and mobile phone usage.

Another thing to keep in mind is the height at which the TV is hung, with its center ideally at eye level.

That helps prevent you from getting a crick in your neck every time you watch TV!

Television is an element that most of us have, and especially if it’s large, it could somewhat impact the living room’s design.

There are ways, if desired, to hide it or make it less impactful, which I’ve discussed here!

(credits: giseletaranto.com; @rcpa)

4 – COFFEE TABLES

Often, people have a central coffee table and sometimes a side table near the sofa, where you might place a table lamp.

Each seating area must have a surface nearby to set down a book, a glass, a plate, etc.

Coffee tables, especially the central one, are also the right place to create some compositions that can enhance the perception of space.

In smaller spaces, they could even be storage elements to help maintain order.

As for the coffee table, it doesn’t necessarily have to be one large piece; it could also be a composition of several tables of different sizes and heights.

That would allow you to move them quickly, as needed, and add some rhythm, which is always a good thing!

Coffee tables don’t have to be all of the same shape or material.

On the contrary, a bit of variation will make the space more attractive. Ensure, however, that the various tables have elements in common with other furniture or objects in the room.

(credits: vemzu.sk; Rafael Soldi)

5 – LIGHTING

I touch on this point frequently because it’s genuinely crucial.

It is not enough to have a single overhead light source, even if adequate, for visual comfort.

One reason is that it could cast annoying shadows.

It’s paramount to have multiple light sources, perhaps with different color temperatures.

Using bulbs with a natural color temperature (around 4000° Kelvin) could be an excellent idea for general lighting.

For other lights, bulbs should be warm (around 2700° Kelvin).

That helps create a more relaxing and inviting atmosphere.

(credits: katiehodgesdesign.com; studio-mcgee.com)

6 – SCALE AND PROPORTIONS

Pay attention to the measurements of furniture and accessories.

Scale is the size of an element concerning the room, while proportion is the size of an item concerning another.

It’s paramount to play with the scale and proportions of various elements to create visual interest in the environment.

The environment would appear a bit flat if you placed everything on the same plane.

Balance and vary the heights, using plants, artwork, or perhaps a large floor mirror to assist you.

All of this creates movement and visual interest, precisely.

(credits: sohohome.com; sawdust2stitches.com)

PROPORTION

As for proportions, this mainly concerns the coffee table related to the sofa, the rug to the conversation area, and even the hung artwork!

A coffee table that’s too small compared to the sofa may appear as if it’s placed there somewhat by mistake.

The rule suggests that it should be 2/3 the size of the sofa, but as mentioned before, it doesn’t have to be a single table; it could be a composition of multiple tables!

(credits: serenaandlily.com; imgnyc.com)

Regarding the rug, you’ve heard me say it multiple times: it should accommodate all the elements to bring them together in a unified area. If it’s smaller, it would create barriers and make the room look smaller.

The same applies to artwork and wall decorations.

If they are too small, they will get lost, while too large, they risk overwhelming the space.

As for wall decorations, pay attention to heights; the center of the picture or composition should be at eye level.

(credits: rugsusa.com; Meridiani living)

I hope this article has been helpful and enjoyable for you. If so, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

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Open space: 8 ideas to make it beautiful and functional

Open space is a concept that you often see in modern homes.

Some time ago, I talked about how to divide an open space kitchen and living room.

Today, I want to give you some tips to make your open space beautiful and functional.

1 – PLAN HOW YOU WANT TO USE THE SPACE

It’s essential to understand how you want to use the available space to figure out how to furnish it.

Generally, in an open space, there are three areas:

– Kitchen

– Dining area

– Living room

To make the open space functional, you need to determine how you use these three spaces:

Do you have many guests for lunch or dinner? In this case, you’ll need an appropriate dining table and prioritize that area.

How do you use the living area?

Do you want to have a kitchen island?

The answers to these questions will determine the layout of the various elements.

The same room can be furnished in different ways.

For instance, if you often have guests and enjoy conversations with them, it might be ideal to position the elements so that the three areas communicate with each other, making it easy to move from one place to another.

On the other hand, you might want to keep the zones well-separated by using the back of the sofa as a divider if you enjoy using the living area for watching television!

It will also be vital to keep in mind the size and shape of the room to buy furniture and elements that are proportionate and scale-appropriate for the available space.

In small spaces, you’ll need to give greater importance to the area you use the most to ensure that the rooms are truly functional.

When you have ample space, it’s still important to consider the space as a whole, even when divided into areas.

In this case, it’s also paramount to avoid placing furniture against the walls but create central areas to make the transitions flow smoothly.

Studying the shape, dimensions, and how you use the room will help you understand how much furniture to buy and how to position it so that the space represents you and is functional for your needs!

(credits: missjessicanicoleblog; dizain-krasivo)

2 – MAINTAIN A CONSISTENT STYLE IN EACH AREA

In an open space, it’s important for each area to “communicate” with one another!

Style, colors, and shapes should be visually similar to create harmony.

If you have a very modern and minimalist kitchen but a rustic-style living room, the contrast will be strong and visually divide the two areas!

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you can’t mix styles; rather, the mix should be present in all areas!

If you want to create some division between the different areas, you can use furniture or other elements, as explained here, but it’s better to maintain a consistency of style!

In small spaces, you’ll need to give greater importance to the area you use the most to ensure that the rooms are truly functional.

When you have ample space, it’s still important to consider the space as a whole, even when divided into areas.

In this case, it’s also paramount to avoid placing furniture against the walls but create central areas to make the transitions flow smoothly.

Studying the shape, dimensions, and how you use the room will help you understand how much furniture to buy and how to position it so that the space represents you and is functional for your needs!

(credits: Erin Vogelpohl; Kennedy Cole Interior Design)

3 – PAY ATTENTION TO COLORS

It’s paramount to have a cohesive color palette and, as with style, use it in all three areas of the open space.

To create a sense of unity, use a neutral color on all the walls and incorporate colors into furniture and accessories (two or three, but not more, I recommend) to add some movement and character to the open space.

On the other hand, if you want to divide the different areas optically, you can change the wall colors, but the important thing is to keep the color palette the same throughout all the open space.

That way, you’ll create a virtual division while maintaining harmony!

(credits: urbanologydesigns.com; @egilfarstad)

4 – USE CONNECTING ELEMENTS

Ensure that the different zones communicate with each other by seeking connecting elements.

As mentioned before, definitely utilize the same style or a mix of styles and distribute the color palette skillfully throughout all the spaces.

You can also use shapes and materials!

For instance, you could use the same metal for the legs of the coffee table in the living room, a candle holder on the dining table, and as handles for the kitchen cabinets!

Doing this creates a certain rhythm, which is one of the fundamentals of interior design (discover the others here!).

Repetitions of colors, materials, patterns, and textures tie the spaces together, providing harmony and unity that are never boring!

(credits: @ed__interiordesign; article.com)

5 – FLOORING

The discussion about flooring is somewhat similar to that of colors:

– if you want to maintain space homogeneity, it’s good to use the same flooring throughout;

– if you want to create a sense of division, especially for the kitchen, you can change the flooring, of course, but try to incorporate the same color or pattern in the other areas!

However, if the space is small, the advice is to keep the same flooring, or at least the same color, to avoid a sharp interruption.

In small spaces, sharp interruptions can visually shrink the rooms even further!

(credits: loveandrenovations.com; Habitat Sintoni)

6 – DEFINE THE AREAS

It’s paramount to define the various areas very clearly!

Saying this may seem contradictory to what I mentioned earlier, but even while maintaining style and color consistency, it’s good to define the different zones.

You can divide the areas by positioning the furniture in a certain way, such as placing the sofa with its back to the kitchen/dining area. Alternatively, you could use rugs!

Rugs are fantastic because they not only help define spaces but also add warmth and texture!

If you use more than one rug, for example, one in the living area and another under the dining table, make sure they have something in common.

It could be the same pattern but with different tones (in line with the color palette), or vice versa, the same shades but different patterns!

They can also share the same colors and patterns but differ in shape, such as having a round rug under the table!

When it comes to rugs, pay attention to the dimensions!

As you know by now, it should accommodate all the elements or at least the front feet for the living area, while, for the dining area, you should also consider the space needed to move the chair when sitting down!

(credits: i.pinimg.com; theeverygirl.com)

Another way to define the areas could be to use dropped ceilings to lower one of the zones!

That is a great idea and can be actually effective in visually separating different areas of an open space.

By creating a lower ceiling in one specific area, you can clearly demarcate the boundaries between the spaces while maintaining a cohesive overall design.

It’s an architectural approach that adds an interesting dimension to the interior design of the open space.

(credits: @penny.rogers.home; kathleenlindesign.com)

7 – LIGHTING

Maintain a certain uniformity for the general lighting using the same color temperature, preferably a natural one (around 4000 kelvin).

Then, add table lamps or floor lamps in the living area with a warmer color temperature, which will also promote relaxation.

Place a light above the dining table and, if present, over the kitchen island.

Having various points of light will not only provide adequate illumination but also highlight each area correctly!

The lamps should ideally have some common elements, either in terms of shape or color, to maintain consistency in the overall design!

(credits: orangetreeinteriors.com; Studio McGee)

8 – CURTAINS

In an open space, it’s essential to have the same window treatments!

That doesn’t necessarily mean having the same curtains on all windows because, for example, draped curtains might be impractical in the kitchen but perfect for the living room!

In using different types of curtains, however, make sure that they are perhaps of the same material and color so that here, as well, there is a common thread!

It’s also essential to hang the curtain rod at the same height, even if you have windows of different sizes.

That helps maintain some visual order and makes everything look more cohesive.

(credits: devongraceinteriors.com; katewalkerdesign.com)

I hope this article has been helpful and enjoyable for you. If so, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

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7 home decorating tricks that will make a difference!

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Today I want to share with you some home decorating tricks you can use right away that will help you furnish and decorate your home to the fullest!

I have already mentioned some of these tricks in other articles, but it never hurts to repeat them!

1 – USE OF MASKING TAPE

– FOR FURNITURE ARRANGEMENT

Masking tape is mainly used for painting walls because it is easily removable without leaving residue and without taking away the plaster.

This tape, however, can be really super useful for other purposes!

One really super helpful use is to draw with it the footprint of furniture and rugs on the floor so you can see that the proportions are correct.

Just because a two-meter sofa theoretically fits, for example, does not mean that it is proportionate to the rest or functional to be able to move around!

As I often say, there is nothing like seeing for yourself to understand.

Of course, there are 3d modeling programs, even free ones, that can help with this, but it can become time-consuming if you are not familiar with them.

Drawing instead with tape is quick and immediate!

So draw the elements you would like on the floor and move around the room to see that everything is functional and proportionate!

(credits: Vivere lo Stile; thesunnysideupblog.com)

– TO DECORATE THE WALLS

This trick can also be used on walls to see if paneling or wall lamps would fit.

You can also use it to create your own composition: whether it is just paintings or pictures with mirrors and other objects! (For this, there is also another trick!)

You only have to draw the outline of the frames or objects on the wall with the tape; you will see immediately if you really like the result!

Moreover, the tape is also very valid for hanging those pictures or mirrors with 2 hooks!!!

All you need to do is put the tape behind the picture or mirror at the height of the hooks and mark where they are placed on it.

Then you will place the tape on the wall at the desired height, of course taking care to put it on a level, et voila, the game is done!

That avoids measuring the distance between the two hooks, which is often impractical!!!

(credits: littlehouseonthecorner.com; sharonehines.com)

2 – USE PAPER TO HANG PAINTINGS

Whether you need to hang a painting or a composition of them, perhaps even with other objects, it is paramount to consider proportions and heights well.

To do this and avoid unnecessarily poking holes in the wall, you can use the trick from before, which is masking tape, or get help from paper and cardboard!

I personally prefer this method because the paper will contrast from the wall across the entire painting surface, giving an even clearer idea, in my opinion!

Not only that, if you don’t like the position, it will be easier to move the paper than to re-frame it with tape!

The trick is quite simple: draw the outline of the picture (or mirror or any object) on the paper and cut it out!

I recommend, also, marking the location of the hook(s) as well and maybe writing the description of the picture!

Then place the cutout on the wall by securing it with paper or masking tape.

With this simple gimmick, you can move and rearrange the sheets of paper until you are sure you have found the correct position!

Having marked the position of the hooks will be a snap then, hammer in the nail or drill holes to put in the dowels!

By doing this, you will drill holes in the right place on the first time, and the wall will thank you!

(If you are interested here I’m going into details about how to hang paintings)

(credits: claireprints.com)

3 – ADHESIVE TAPE FOR POTS

If you have vases with a large opening, putting flowers, whether real or fake, is really tricky because they will rest on the edges of the vase, leaving a gap in between.

Here again, the trick is there, and it is indeed simple but effective: again, use tape, possibly the transparent kind!

All you need to do is create a kind of grid on the vase opening with tape and then arrange the flowers inside this grid!

The result is guaranteed!!!

If the vase is quite large and not glass, another way might be to put a smaller vase in it!

(credits: kristywicks.com; maisondecinq.com)

4 – LINING THE BOOKS

Books are really a beautiful way to decorate the home: on the coffee table, shelves, or console table, they give that quid to our compositions!

The problem with books, however, is often the color of the covers that doesn’t match the color palette you’ve chosen at all!

When this is the case and, understandably, you don’t want to buy books specifically just for decoration, you can decide to line them!

All you need to do is buy some paper or fabric that matches the color palette you have chosen for your home and line your favorite books!

Then, to recognize them, you can write the title by hand if you have nice handwriting, print a label or use stamps!

By doing this, you can put your favorite books in your compositions!

It might also be an idea to have a cover for each season or at least 2: one for fall-winter and one for summer-spring!

(credits: chloemoorephotography.blogspot.com;thehouseofelements.com)

5 – USE WAX OR DOUBLE-SIDED TAPE TO SECURE OBJECTS

I guess you have a cutlery tray in your kitchen drawer, and every time you open it, it moves around, ending up in the bottom!

How annoying is it?

Maybe you also have objects on display that you care about, but there is a risk of bumping into them or you have children or animals and you are afraid they might fall…

What to do in these cases?

Simply by doing as in museums: blocking these objects with wax or double-sided tape!

Specifically, as waxes, there is “museum wax”, and as double-sided tape, there is “PfX Nano” (you can find them on Amazon).

You only need to put a small amount of wax or a small piece of tape to lock the objects where you want them.

However, both wax and double-sided tape are easily removed without leaving any residue!

(credits: Amazon)

6 – RECHARGEABLE BULBS

How often have you found yourself wanting to put a lamp, whether floor or table one, in one place and then not having an outlet nearby?

When this is the case, either you use unsightly, as much as dangerous extension cables, or you end up giving up putting the lamp there!

Well, here, too, there is finally a solution: rechargeable bulbs!!!

Thanks to these bulbs, you can add a few light points, perhaps even on the wall, to give that extra quid without having to break anywhere or redo the wiring!

By the way, thanks to the remote control, you can also decide the brightness by adjusting it as needed!

You can find them on Amazon!

(credits:Amazon)

7 – FIND THE COLOR USED FOR THE WALLS AGAIN!

It’s time to whiten the walls of your home: if you have them white, no problem, but if you have them colored and want to keep the color, you need to remember the codes!

Easily you no longer have them!

It is normal; it has happened to everyone!

To find the right color, if you do not want to buy special tools, you will need to scrape a little plaster, perhaps under a socket or behind a piece of furniture.

The paint store has the tools to recognize color.

Once you find it, however, to avoid going crazy next time and having to ruin the wall each time and then retouch it, I reveal an effective trick!

Take the plate off one of the sockets and write the color code for that wall behind it with a permanent marker!

By doing this, especially if you have multiple colors, you won’t have to go crazy to remember the codes or where you put the paper where you marked them all!!!

(credits: lonefoxhome)

I hope this article was helpful and you love it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your home, or some environment of it, does not reflect you enough, do not wait any longer and book your consultancy: just contact me!

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Decorating your home in spring: some tips!

Decorating home differently for each season is a way to give new life to our homes while giving them new energy too!

You don’t need big things because then we know we have to retire them at the following season change: just small touches that can make a difference, though!

Spring is approaching, so here are some tips for decorating your home for this beautiful period!

One of the first things to do is to take advantage of the famous spring cleaning, not only to do deep cleaning but also to get rid of anything that is no longer needed.

Good decluttering will help give rooms a fresher, lighter feel!

TYPICAL ELEMENTS

Spring kicks off the beautiful season, longer days, and the awakening of nature!

Plants, flowers, pastel and light colors, and fresh aromas are among the most typical elements to use in decorating your home and bringing a little spring into the home.

It is a proper time to take care of your plants, change the pots of those that need it, remove any yellowed leaves, and clean and polish them!

For flowers, I understand that it is not always feasible to have fresh ones everywhere, and I know I always say it is better to avoid fake plants and flowers, but let’s be objective: sometimes, it remains the best solution.

Always without exaggeration, of course, but nowadays, there are fake flowers that look real!

Then 2 tricks can help and not make people perceive that they are using artificial flowers:

– if using in a glass jar, put some water inside;

– add some authentic branches.

Berry branches, rather than that of eucalyptus or butcher’s broom, last for weeks and will give that touch of authenticity to the artificial flower arrangement!

In addition, pots can be created with small arrangements of moss.

Let’s now see, room by room, how to bring in a little spring!

(credits: awonderfulthought.com; onsuttonplace.com)

(credits: designthusiasm.com; thriftyandchic.com)

LIVINGROOM

After taking care of the plants that are there, a quick and effective way to decorate is to change the covers of the pillows you have on the sofa.

Use colors in cheerful spring hues with some floral patterns, and use cotton, linen, and silk fabrics!

If you like to have the blanket on the couch, you can have it just as long as it is not wool but cotton and in spring colors, even vivid if you like to give some movement.

Change the decorations on the coffee table, putting a lovely vase of flowers and colorful and scented candles.

If you have dark-colored covers books on your coffee table, you might consider replacing them with books with lighter-colored covers.

If you have frames with prints, as I had suggested for fall decorations, you can think about changing them by putting ones with typically spring themes and colors.

These are all things that are not bulky yet change the face of an environment.

Wicker baskets are always “the welcome ones” and a great way to decorate and pick up anything that doesn’t need to be on view!

If you have double curtains, it’s a good idea, unless it’s neutral, to also change the non-filtering one to more spring colors.

A lovely centerpiece with a nice glass vase and flowers will be ideal for the dining table too!

(credits: ©EmeryBastable; lifeonvirginiastreet.com)

KITCHEN

The best way to bring spring into the kitchen is to have jars with aromatic herbs and maybe lavender!

The scents these give off immediately bring you back to this fresh season!

You can also accompany these with lemons to give them some color and fragrance!

If you have pretty colored mugs, you can take them out and place them on a tray on the countertop.

You can hang some garland, maybe DIY, on the walls: you can find many tutorials on the internet!

And, of course, change textiles, such as gloves, potholders, and aprons, but also any cushions on chairs and rugs!

(credits: adventuresindecorating1.blogspot.com; vibekedesign.blogspot.com)

BEDROOM

Here too, as you can imagine, the easiest and most effective way is to change textiles!

You can decide on a bedspread in cheerful colors, perhaps with floral patterns (always being careful not to overdo it).

Or you can keep a more neutral bedspread and add the splash of color with pillows and a blanket at the foot of the bed!

Similar to the living room, you might think about changing the non-filtering ones if you have double curtains.

On the dresser, a beautiful arrangement with flowers in a lovely glass vase and a few colorful, scented candles.

You can as well put small flower arrangements on the nightstands or place a faux tulip on it.

Again, if you have paintings with prints, replace them with more spring-like images.

(credits: @abbie_melle; kenayhome.com)

START THINKING ABOUT THE OUTDOORS AS WELL

However small your balcony may be, take advantage of the outdoor spaces as well and start fixing them up!

There can be no shortage of plants there, possibly with flowers to give some color too, but also think about a small seat or just some cushions on the ground!

Make the interior and exterior connected to enlarge and give more breathing space!

If you want more ideas on how to decorate a balcony, I talk about it here (7 ways to make a balcony pleasant and functional) and here (How to decorate your balcony, even if it is small and narrow!)!

(credits: gordmans.com; blackhaus.com)

I hope this article about decorating your home in spring was helpful and you love it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

And if you need advice for your home, do not hesitate to contact me!

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Curtains: ideas for hanging them the right way!

Curtains, I always say, are really essential when furnishing and decorating a house!

This is because they dress the windows and bring warmth, textures, and wanting colors to the room.

Today I would like to look at some common mistakes you make when putting up curtains and also how to do it in special situations such as when there are radiators, you have an arched window, or the window is very close to a wall!

LET’S START WITH THE COMMON MISTAKES!

– HANG AT THE RIGHT HEIGHT

That is a mistake people often make: which is to hang curtains just above the window!

Putting the curtains at that level will not emphasize the heights by visually shrinking the room!

The curtain should be hung as close to the ceiling as possible; to give an idea about two-thirds of the space between the window and roof.

If the ceiling were really very high, the curtains should be hung at least 15-20 cm above the window!

– PAY ATTENTION TO THE LENGTH OF THE ROD

Another mistake that is often made is to buy a rod the same size as the window or just slightly longer.

That, as with the previous point, somewhat shrinks the window, but mostly it is nonfunctional.

The curtains, when open, obstruct the passage of light because they overlap the windows!

You need to calculate at least 10-15 cm on each side so that the open curtain barely covers the window profile.

 

– CHOOSE THE RIGHT WIDTH PANEL!

Curtains should always be soft both when open and closed.

Choosing a too narrow panel will result in the curtain appearing drawn when the curtains are closed.

Conversely, if the panel is too wide, it will be heavy both when the curtains are closed and especially when they are open!

In either case, the curtains will look randomly placed and unstudied!

(credit: la redoute; amazon)

– TAKE GOOD MEASUREMENTS IN LENGTH!

Another very common mistake is to have curtains that are too short!

Doing this will visually shrink the room, and as with the previous point, the curtains will look as if they were placed without a proper study.

Depending on the style and especially how much they are opened and closed and the footfall in that area, three lengths can be studied:

– the curtain that skims the floor: this is ideal when curtains often open, in high footfall areas, and for an elegant yet casual look;
If you really don’t like the idea of it skimming the floor, you can make it slightly shorter, but no more than a couple of inches.

(credits: Pion studio; villedesign.be)

– make the curtain rest slightly: this means adding 1-2 cm to the curtain relative to the floor so that it caresses it.
It is ideal for giving an extra dynamic touch!

(credits: Cille Grut; Kate Lawrence Interiors)

– create a slight puff on the floor: to do this, you need to add 4-6 cm to the fabric relative to the floor.
That will give a touch of formality to the room.

Be careful not to overdo the puffing, first of all, because there is then the risk of stumbling in, but it will turn out anything but elegant!

(credits: thedesignfiles.net;borgonovo1930.com)

HOW TO DO IN PARTICULAR SITUATIONS?

– WINDOWS NEAR THE WALL – ANGLE WINDOWS

You might happen to have windows near the wall that do not allow you to have that extra 10-15 cm for the rod: how to do it?

In this case, it might be advisable to decide to change the type of curtain, choosing packet or roller blinds, not necessarily glass blinds!

If you have two windows in a corner with not enough wall portion between them, it is best to avoid having 2 panels for each window; when open, they would overlap the window, not letting light through well!

If this is the case and you would still like to use drapery, the solution is there: use two different types of curtains!

That is, a roller or package to the window and then use an angle rod and use only one panel per window!

This simple trick will make the windows look like one, even if angular!

(credits: nadinestay.com; thehomesihavemade.com)

If, on the other hand, there is a good portion of the wall, possibly equal for the two windows, then double drapery panels will do!

I still recommend using two separate rods to emphasize each window.

If the corner window is a unique window indeed, I would recommend not using rods but ceiling tracks for a simpler and cleaner effect.

(credits: Marie Flanigan Interiors; Houzz.com)

– RADIATORS

Perhaps in the new generation houses not, but in most other homes, the radiators are put under the windows.

That presumably is so as not to steal valuable space from other walls.

Positioned this way, however, makes it more complicated to use curtains because if they cover it, obviously they block the passage of heat somewhat.

Again, it might be worthwhile to use two different types of curtains, that is use roller or packet curtains and drapery!

When the heaters are on, you will keep the drapery curtains open to let the heat in, but you will not have to give up privacy because you can pull down the other curtains!

Doing so will not block the heat but will not give up the elegance and fullness that drapery curtains give!

(credits: @Huisno26; Greenbank Interiors)

– ARCHED WINDOWS

When you have arched windows, the ideal is to treat them like regular windows and then put the rod over the arch as close to the ceiling as possible!

You can put the rod below the arch only in case the window, and consequently the ceiling, is a really high one.

The risk, if not, is to suffocate it by making the environment visually smaller.

(credits: makingprettyspaces.com; Jane Lockhart Design)

I hope this article was helpful and you love it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your home, or some environment of it, does not reflect you enough, do not wait any longer and book your consultancy!

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10 Ikea items that are designer approved!

A year or so ago, I talked about 15 Ikea items that, while remaining affordable, could give that refined touch to the home without making it clear where they came from…

Well, today, I would like to add new products, always designer approved!

1 – APPLARYD

This sofa is relatively recent, and as you can see, it does NOT look like an Ikea couch at all!

It has a remarkably minimalist and essential line, and its black steel raised feet lighten it and make it modern and elegant.

Perfect for scandinavian, modern, and contemporary styles.

It exists in two and three seats, and there is the possibility of a three-seater with a chaise lounge.

In Italy, it exists in two versions, gray or beige melange, but abroad it is also found in terracotta red and blue velvet.

APPLARYD IKEA

2 – REGISSOR

This sideboard exists both low and as a window cabinet, and there is a white and brown variant.

The lines here, too, are essential and clean, with a handle built into the door, and the raised legs give that light touch.

It really adapts easily to any environment.

Both the cupboard and the window cabinet turn out to be very spacious.

Small idea, which is presented in the store: add light to the window cabinet; this elevates the perception of the cabinet even more, especially if you have unique objects inside; by doing so, you can make it the focal point!

REGISSOR IKEA

3 – FROSET

It is a really versatile chair, suitable for nordic, japandi, modern, and contemporary styles; it can be put in the room as an extra seat but as an armchair in the living room, too, especially if it is small.

Its organic, essential, and light line does not weigh down the environment; on the contrary!

It exists in natural wood, black, and red.

The black one could be the accent piece that creates some rhythm in the house!

FROSET IKEA

4 – SANELA CURTAINS

As you know for me, curtains are vital, because they dress the environment.

I have also often talked about double curtains, one filtering to let light through but protect the privacy and one blackout or semi-blackout for giving some contrast and rhythm.

If you like the idea, Sanela curtains can really go for you: they have a nice texture and are beautiful to look at.

They exist in a wide variety of colors; undoubtedly, there will be one that suits your home.

SANELA CURTAINS IKEA

It is a versatile tent because it easily fits on both rods and rails.

 

SANELA CURTAINS IKEA

Of this same fabric, then there are also pillow covers, so both in the hall and in the room, it might be a good idea to get at least a couple of pillow covers in the same color as the curtain to make a reminder!

SANELA PILLOWS COVER IKEA

5 – MANALG

 

The nod to nature is now a growing trend, so Ikea has added pieces made of natural fibers like this wall lamp!

It is a handmade lamp that radiates light up and down and lets it filter through its fibers.

Basically, it is suitable for rustic and japandi styles.

And it brings warmth into the home and is undoubtedly an original piece!

6 – TUFJORD

This bed frame has an organic and enveloping shape!

Its steel legs lighten the structure, which already has an essential line anyway.

It exists in sugar paper color and green velvet.

It is adapted to modern, contemporary, glam, and art deco styles!

7 – EKOLN SERIES

A few weeks ago, I mentioned how important it was to have dispensers all the same in the bathroom instead of a thousand colored bottles!

Here Ikea offers a series in which there are not only dispensers but also other bathroom accessories.

This series is really very elegant with opaque colors, and can be the right solution and at an affordable price to decorate like a pro!!

8 – HULTARP

To stay on topic, this series can really elevate and make the kitchen super functional!

Once you’ve chosen the rails (which exist in black, brass, and steel), then all you have to do is look for the right accessories that allow you to have the things you often use on hand but displayed stylishly!

9 – KONSTFULL

Again in the video a few weeks ago, I talked about the importance of small arrangements of flowers and branches, even if they are fake!

Here Ikea offers a stunning vase for this purpose!

The shape is original, but what makes it distinctive is the frosted glass work that allows you to glimpse inside but giving it an abstract effect.

That is perfect precisely if you have fake flowers because it is usually just the stem that betrays artificiality, so however it will show and not show!

Adding a little water will really make a difference!

From the same series, there are also cylindrical and spherical shaped vases with very natural colors such as smoky and forest green… it can be a lovely and elegant idea to create a composition of these vases!

10 – GLASSES

When you get to the glasses section, it is good to stop for a moment because some pieces are quite beautiful!

In particular, I point out storsint, which has glasses for all kinds of drinks (even beer) and a nice decanter too. Of the series, I find the cocktail glass and the champagne glass particularly interesting.

For water, are lovely Ivrig and dyrgrip, which also has captivating red and white wine glasses!

As a champagne glass, I still report storhet!

I want to say one more word about Ikea furniture… Don’t disdain those pieces of furniture we all know by now because, with a pinch of imagination, you can change them into something unique and original!

There are many ideas online on how to “hack” Ikea furniture: a simple Besta, for example, with different feet and knobs, can really become unrecognizable at a price that is always affordable!

I hope this article was helpful and you love it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your home, or some environment of it, does not reflect you enough, do not wait any longer and book your consultancy!

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How much does home staging cost?

I often hear the question: “How much does home staging cost?!”

Albeit it is not easy to give a precise answer because the figure depends on so many factors: the size of the house, whether it is inhabited or not, the location of the house (i.e. ease of use)… let’s at least try to give ranges.

Let’s start by saying that we can divide home staging into three types of interventions:

  • inhabited home;
  • Uninhabited but furnished apartment;
  • empty property.

In all cases, they are considered in the prices:

  • the inspection,
  • the identification of the target audience,
  • color consulting,
  • the Project
  • the photo shoot.
INHABITED PROPERTY

Having made this necessary introduction, let us start with the simplest intervention on paper, named inhabited property.

A consultation will tend to be enough here, with which we will assess: possible interventions in the colors of the house, possible moves of some furniture, what accessories to use to give it that extra appeal.

It is difficult for the home stager to have to bring materials except for the photo shoot.

for that reason, this intervention could then be around 500 euros.

UNINHABITED, BUT FURNISHED PROPERTY

For uninhabited but furnished houses, it will be necessary to assess the type of furniture present.

Of course, one will always try to keep as much as possible, but something will likely have to be eliminated.

Any work to be done, such as painting the housing, will be decided.

Finally, the materials needed to complete the set will be added (which will remain in the apartment for the agreed time, of course).

So let’s say the starting point could be as low as 1300 for a two-room apartment.

EMPTY PROPERTY

Finally, concerning the empty property, as can be imagined, there is more work to do.

In fact, it will be necessary to determine, transport, and place EVERYTHING needed to give a correct idea of the spaces.

(If you want to see an intervention on empty real estate, I’ll take you with me here!)

Of course, here again, there is the rental of materials for the agreed-upon time to consider.

We can reasonably expect the price to start at 2100 euros for a two-room apartment.

As you can see, it is not easy to say how much home staging costs! And as mentioned before, these are approximate prices, which also change depending on the house value: as you can imagine, the material brought in for staging will be quite different if it is a luxury house!

BUT THEN I FURNISH AND SELL FURNISHED…

That said, I would like to take the opportunity to consider a possible objection that might come to your mind:

“But, especially on an empty house, wouldn’t it be an idea to furnish it directly and try to sell it furnished?”

I want to talk about it because it is actually an objection made to me some time ago.

I had submitted an estimate of 2600€ for a three-room apartment and was immediately answered that with 1000/2000€ more, the apartment would be furnished and offered for sale with furniture included (of course with a higher price)!

An objection I respect, but in case you feel the same way, I would like to analyze with you whether it is a functional and cost-effective solution.

Let’s say you are in the same situation: let’s analyze this case together.

WHAT DO YOU DO WITH THE TARGET?

First, do you really only need €5000 to furnish that kind of house?

If the square footage is not a lot, it might well be.

The problem, however, might arise with the kitchen.

Even going to low-cost chains, the ones that give you kitchens “with blocked compositions,” you would have to be lucky to have the correct square footage and attachments where you need them.

Because, at the slightest change, it would become a “custom” kitchen that would raise prices!

(In the specific case, there was a corner to put the washing machine, so it definitely had to be studied).

EVEN IF YOU CAN DO IT…

Let’s be optimistic and say you manage to stay in the 5000 euros, now I’ll explain why it’s a risk to furnish to sell:

  • selling furnished will lose possible buyers because many already have their own furniture, and especially because everyone wants a home that represents them (they would find furniture not chosen by them here);
  • to furnish at that price, you have to buy basic furniture, otherwise, it’s not worth the risk, and this will reduce the potential customer’s interest more;
  • you will have to decide the style and colors, and once again, you will cut off a good chunk of people who were potential targets.
    In fact, if you choose a “strong” style or particular colors, you will lose the interest of those who do not like that style or those colors!
    If you try to stay as neutral as possible, on the contrary, you will lose those who like bolder styles!
    I know, now you’re thinking: “But home staging is very neutral, then even with this method, I lose potential customers”… that’s not the case because the house is sold empty!!!
    So the observer perceives the spaces and perhaps takes cues but knows that he will then do as he pleases!

These three points should give pause for thought: FURNISH TO SELL AT LEAST HALVES THE TARGET!!!

WHAT ABOUT THE TIME?

But there are other aspects to which I want to bring your attention.

We said that economically we could furnish with 5000€, but how much value do you give to YOUR time?

Oh yes, because if you have to furnish, you will have to go to the various stores to decide what to buy and place orders.

Not only that: you will have to wait some time before this furniture is delivered and assembled (and the house will remain stopped).

In addition, you will have to give this house a minimum of appeal: bedspreads, pillows, curtains, chandeliers, a few paintings…

These are all things you will have to bring and put in.

How long does it take? Time to find everything, buy and arrange the complements… can we say at least a day? I think I am also optimistic!

So basically, to this 5000 euro investment, you have to add the time it takes to look for furniture and accessories, the waiting time for delivery and assembly, and the time to make the house look nice!

If you don’t want to do it yourself, you will have to pay someone to do it for you.

WHAT IF THEY DON ‘T WANT THE FURNITURE?

Also, once everything is done, if you find someone who would like to buy but absolutely doesn’t want the furniture, what would you do?

If you leave the task of doing everything to the buyer, you will necessarily have to lower the price!

On the other hand, if you take care of it yourself, you will be forced to pay someone to come and disassemble and take away the furniture (increasing costs), and find a place to put it all away (which has a price)!

Indeed, you could try to sell everything, but it is not that simple, especially if you intend to sell the furniture before the delivery of the house keys.

Besides, we are always talking about low-end furniture to stay within the prices!

Assuming you have another apartment to sell, you might think about reusing them there and selling that one as furnished…

But, again, the problems will not be few.

For example, you are unlikely to readapt the kitchen (at the very least, if you are lucky, you will have to change the countertop).

Furthermore, how will you sell the house? As “furnished new”?

Remember, again, that we are talking about basic furniture, so it is easy to ruin it on the second assembly…

ALL THINGS CONSIDERED…

All this considered, taking your time into account as well, not only did you pay significantly more than 5000 euros, but:

  • you may have to pay a mover to take everything away,
  • a possible warehouse to pick up the furniture, waiting to sell it,
  • or invest more time preparing a new house, where you will have the same target reduction problems as the first one!

Is it worth it?

In the above approximate prices, as mentioned before, are included:

  • identification of the target audience,
  • study of a project for a MIRATE set-up,
  • time required for transportation, installation, and dismantling (as well as the photo shoot)!

I am convinced that it is paramount to see home staging as an investment, not a cost, an investment that will lead to selling your home sooner and at the best price.

What do you think?

I hope this article was helpful and you love it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you have a house to sell, or if you feel that your house, or some environment of it, does not reflect you enough do not wait any longer and book your consultancy!

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Color of the year 2023, here the proposals of leading brands.

We are now in the last part of the year, and like every year, we start talking about home color trends for the coming year, each brand proposing its color of the year 2023.

While waiting for the very familiar color of the year 2023 by Pantone, let’s see what other brands in the industry are offering us!

This year too, the call is to nature, although no longer only on the green, is very strong, but some dared a little more!

– BENJAMIN MOORE: Raspberry blush

Benjamin Moore offers a vibrant and charismatic color this year, a coral mixed with red.

“Raspberry blush enlivens the senses with electrifying optimism!”

It is a powerful color, far from the neutrals proposed in 2022, which will give a touch of character to rooms.

You can use it in small doses, but you can also dare on doors or furniture up to walls!

Fun fact: To commemorate this year’s selection, Benjamin Moore collaborated with electro-funk duo Chromeo to highlight the optimistic tone of the palette and the dynamic role that color plays in personal expression, just like music (you can find the track on their website)

Benjamin Moore 2023

(credit Benjamin Moore)

Benjamin Moore proposes a whole palette of colors, which, for them, will be the trend of 2023.

As you can see, the colors, if you exclude conch shell and new age, are all quite bold and intense.

When using these colors, I recommend calming them down with neutrals, like the four proposed by Benjamin Moore himself!

Benjamin Moore 2023

(credit Benjamin Moore)

– SHERWIN WILLIAMS: Rendend point

Sherwin-Williams offers a warm and intriguing color that goes well with all styles.

Basically, it is a neutral color, an earthy color with a hint of pink, a color that helps you feel rooted!

It is a soothing color, so it is also suitable for the bedroom, giving a touch of personality.

It is versatile, so in addition to fitting all styles, it also goes well with most colors, although it gives its best with white and other warm colors!

Sherrwin Williams 2023

(credit Sherwin Williams)

Fun fact: Sherwin-Williams worked with Etsy to find a selection of items that would go well with this color.

Sherwin-Williams also offers a whole palette of colors that you can safely pair together!

Sherrwin Williams 2023

(credit Sherwin Williams)

– PPG: Vining ivy

PPG stays in shades of green, although this year’s is a bolder green!

“It’s a deep, shaded Caribbean aqua with turquoise undertones” that goes with any style!

It is an elegant color that becomes truly gorgeous when paired with warm wood tones.

Relaxing, refreshing, and revitalizing, you can use it in all rooms, either as furniture or on walls!

PPG 2023

(credit PPG)

This year too, PPG offers three color palettes that include Vining ivy:

– Serenity

It is a color palette that combines pastels, watery tones, and warm neutrals, all calming and soothing colors that bring serenity precisely!

PPG 2023

(credit PPG)

– Duality

It is a palette that plays with contrasts: there are, in fact, pastel colors and very bright colors; it is for those who like to dare and give a touch of powerful character!

PPG 2023

(credit PPG)

– Origin

It is a palette that takes inspiration from the natural world, picking up the colors of nature, forests, earth, and sea…

PPG 2023

(credit PPG)

We can also find this color in one of the three color palettes proposed last year:

– Invaluable

Dark, refined hues, in short, an elegant color palette that winks at traditions!

PPG 2022

(credit PPG)

– BEHR: Blank canvas

The Behr brand chooses, as the color of the year 2023 Blank canvas, a warm, buttery, and enveloping white.

It is a calming and soothing color that you can use with all styles and in all rooms; you can use it alone, but it will be an excellent glue for many other colors.

It is less rigid and austere than pure white, it nevertheless retains its brightness, so it’s excellent on walls.

In an exclusive interview with AD, Erika Woelfel, vice president of color and creative services at Behr, described the shade as “that perfect artistic color to allow people to start expressing their creativity.”

Behr 2023

(credit Behr)

Behr, too, offers a color palette that can be used in conjunction with the blank canvas.

They are all dusty colors, many of them echoing the colors of nature and the earth.

Behr 2023

(credit Behr)

– SIKKENS: Wild wonder

Sikkens, too, draws on nature with its Wild wonder, a color that echoes that of wheat.

A warm, positive color that reconnects us precisely with nature, bringing calm and serenity.

That, too, is a color that goes with all styles and can be used in all rooms, from the furniture to the walls, for a definitely relaxing and bright environment.

Sikkens 2023

(credit Sikkens)

This brand is no exception and creates no less than 4 palettes around its color of the year, all inspired by nature:

– Lush colors:

Resumes forest shades “help us make our homes feel part of the world”.

Sikkens 2023

(credit Sikkens)

– Buzz colors:

echoes the bright colors of the meadow and flowering fields; they are shades that “give energy, harmony, and joy”

Sikkens 2023

(credit Sikkens)

– Raw colors:

echoes the hues of the harvest, conveys “the wonder of nature’s products, and can give a sense of richness and creativity to the environment.”

Sikkens 2023

(credit Sikkens)

– Flow colors:

echoes the hues of the sea; they are delicate shades “capable of conveying a sense of balance in our hectic lives.”

Sikkens 2023

(credit Sikkens)

– FARROW & BALL:

As always, this brand offers more than one color each year: this year, as many as 11, all inspired by moments of joy, comfort, and refreshment.

Bamboozle is the somewhat bolder and more vibrant of these colors; the others are a bit more neutral.

All of them, however, including bamboozle, fit well with any style and can be used together to create an original palette that will give your home some character!

Farrow & ball 2023

(credit  Farrow & Ball)

Farrow & ball 2023

(credit  Farrow & Ball)

I hope this article was helpful and you love it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your home, or some environment of it, does not reflect you enough, do not wait any longer and book your advice: just contact me!

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Decorate home in style: 6 tips for doing it best!

Today, I would like to share with you some tips and tricks used by interior designers to decorate home with style!

A few suggestions are really very simple and usable right away in your home!

– SCALE AND PROPORTIONS

It is paramount that furniture and accessories are correctly scaled to the size of the room and in proportion to each other.

Furniture or elements that are too large will give a feeling of an overstuffed and confusing environment.

Conversely, too small will be lost, giving the feeling that something is missing.

So to furnish and decorate in style, it is really essential to measure the space and buy items with the correct size for that specific place and in relation to the rest!

(credits: artheco.it; Bronxes Studio)

– BALANCE AND SYMMETRY

Our eyes really like symmetry: it is something that subconsciously calms us!

Decorating your home in style using symmetry is undoubtedly a great thing to do…

BUT, as always, without overdoing it, because then it can get boring!

Perfect symmetry, if repeated over and over again, loses its appeal then, making the environment flat.

The key word is always BALANCE, so don’t be afraid to use asymmetry you only need to balance it visually!

Now let me explain:

If, for example, you decide to put a picture above the couch but not centered, you can balance on the other side with a beautiful floor or wall lamp.

Balancing visual weights will maintain a balance even without perfect symmetry!

The important thing is not to decorate only one side of the wall or place all the furniture in one area of the room without balancing it with something: otherwise, it will look like something is wrong.

(credits: neptune.com; Knoll)

– ATTENTION TO THE USE OF COLORS

The right or wrong use of color will make a big difference in decorating your home in style.

Color has deep psychological significance and is a fantastic ally for our homes.

You can use it on walls, furniture, and decorations, such as pictures, pillows, and vases…

Unless you want a total white or total black or total grey home, you certainly use some colors: in fact, neutrals are colors because they will have a definite undertone (actually, unless you use pure colors white, black, and gray, do too).

You can have a monochromatic home, that is, using the same color everywhere, changing the saturation and intensity: this creates rhythm and does not make everything flat.

You can also use color just in small touches, so in a room, which tends to be neutral, add a few colorful elements here and there (a pillow, an ottoman, an armchair… for example!).

Then, again, you can use different shades of this color to give that sophisticated and stylish touch.

Of course, you can also use more than one color by creating a well-thought-out color palette that allows you to have a balanced and harmonious environment.

If you are afraid to use color, proceed in small steps, with small elements first!

(credits: mooielight.com; Sean Litchfield)

– ALWAYS MAKE COMPOSITIONS IN ODD GROUPS

When making your decorations on a coffee table, a console table, the shelves, or a bookcase, always make compositions with an odd number of elements.

If you put only two elements next to each other, there will be a bit of a feeling of something incomplete; something put there somewhat randomly.

One is an odd number, so, especially on the dining or coffee table putting only one object, perhaps a vase with flowers, may be an option; the only caution will be that it be proportionate to the surface on which it is placed.

The fact remains that three is always the perfect number, although nothing prohibits making five-element compositions as well.

Small clarification, if you put books on top of each other and place an object on there, the whole thing will be considered as one element of the composition!

When making these groups, to make them attractive and sophisticated, always remember to play with different sizes, materials, colors, and finishes.

The elements should create a triangle or diagonal, as always, to give rhythm and dynamism.

Also for compositions, pay attention to the things mentioned in the previous point, namely, the proportions between the elements that make up the composition itself and this in relation to the place where it is placed!

(credits: boho-farmhouse-decor-home-tour-2020; Scout & Nimble)

– THROW PILLOWS

Throw pillows are a quick, easy, and inexpensive way to decorate your home in style.

It will also allow you to change the face of your environments whenever you want!

In fact, once you have bought different-sized and shaped interiors, you can purchase different slip-coverings that you can replace at every change of season, for example, or whenever you see fit.

The slipcovers do not take up too much space and, as just seen, allow you to renovate your home with ease.

I recommend considering throw pillows as any decorative object and so, also with them, as mentioned in the previous point, make compositions in groups of three, or at any rate, always in odd numbers on the couch or bed.

Therefore, even with throw pillows, it is good to use different sizes, colors, patterns, and textures in the composition to give some rhythm and dynamism.

Be careful how you mix patterns, keep in mind the colors, but also the scale of the designs so that each piece blends well with the other (I talk in detail about how to mix patterns here).

Avoid, unless you are in an armchair, leaving a pillow alone, it would seem to be put there a bit haphazardly!

A well-designed composition will immediately give a sophisticated and elegant effect.

(credits: Enorm d’Acheteromme; lifeoncedarlane.com)

Little Tips:

– to get pretty filled pillows, get interiors a little bigger than the covers.

– if you like to give a magazine look to your pillows, get interiors that you can shape well (not too dense, to be honest), and then once it’s pretty filled, you can karate chop it with your hand in the middle!

It is very trendy, but, actually, it gives that feeling of something more studied.

(credits: Etsy.com)

– WALL DECORATIONS

Decorating walls with style is not as easy as it looks, and mistake is really just around the corner!

On the wall, you can put mirrors, pictures, or photographs; you can put one or two pieces or a whole gallery, and, in all cases, the first thing, the most important, is to hang at the right height!

Mirror or pictures, or, better, the center of them, should be hung at eye level, being around 145 and 170 cm from the floor; it will depend on your height, of course!

If you hang the picture or mirror too high, it looks like its own thing, separate from everything else.

In the case of a composition, this measure should be taken for the center of it.

The distance between the various elements on the gallery wall is also significant, which must always be the same and is around 5 cm, both in height and sideways.

If the paintings are too close together, it will create confusion, while if they are too separate, they will look like stand-alone pieces and will not form a cohesive and harmonious composition.

(credits: etsy.com; posterstore.it)

Small cautions:

Regarding mirrors, as seen on other occasions, you can also dare to use huge mirrors, perhaps resting on the floor; they will double the light and give an incredible touch of elegance and style.

For paintings, on the other hand, I recommend avoiding buying elements mass-produced because they will not bring originality.

Of course, I understand that one cannot always afford an auteur painting, but if you look well, you might find a large number of emerging artists who have really cool and distinctive works.

Another way to have original paintings is to create them yourself: if not painting, you can use fabrics, for example… don’t limit your creativity.

The important thing, however, is to look for elements that represent you and tell who you are so that you can decorate in style, your style, your home!

(credits: Sarah Richardson Design; hepsiburada.com – Voovart)

I hope this article was helpful and you love it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your home, or some environment of it, does not reflect you enough, do not wait any longer and book your advice: just contact me!

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