I absolutely agree. Especially unfair to the client. I see so much "work" that is substandard, and deceptive. In Boise there is a lack of licensing anything - but of course licensing interior designers here would be the perfect solution. It may take more fires, more home owners deaths to get the attention of anyone that is willing to make the governmental changes. A real industry tragedy. Claiming to be anything that you are not is illegal. Fraudulent and deceptive. But in the interior designer - decorator realm clients here tend to accept it - because the decorator has a "flair" for what they do. Have you ever hired a person claiming to be a doctor, dentist, attorney, or engineer because they have a "flair" for what they do? Of course not. Health and safety concerns may end up changing the playing field as more and more people move here from states with legislation in the interior design arena.

I like Patricia's idea for head-to-head beds along the long wall with something between them -- maybe two back-to-back low bookcases or a big cube? Then they would have a bit of privacy and perhaps some storage. That would free up the opposite wall for work/creative space. Rather than bulky desks, a long narrow laminate board set on top of something sturdy -- maybe desk height small dressers -- would provide work space without taking over the room. Find low-profile chairs that can slide under the desk area. A bright rug, bedding and some art will make a bright, cheerful space. This room screams out for Ikea solutions -- you could furnish the entire room with their products. Take a look at their many modular storage products. Take the kids along with you to a showroom if there is one nearby and let them pick out bedding and accessories. My kids always loved shopping there. Have fun and good luck!

Facts According to the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), 26 U.S. states have laws recognizing interior designers. Some of these states require individuals to be licensed to work as interior designers. Although interior design laws and licensing requirements vary throughout the U.S., those individuals who hold the title of registered, certified or licensed interior designer have met the minimum requirements to offer their interior design services in their state. States Requiring Licensure The states that require interior designers to become licensed are known as practice law states. States including Alabama, Florida, Louisiana and Nevada have established agencies that enforce licensing requirements for individuals working as interior designers and regulate the practice of interior design along with the use of designated titles for these professionals. Although all these states require interior designers to obtain a license, individuals who conduct their work under the direct supervision of a licensed interior designer or only work with residential clients may be exempt in some states. Basic Licensing Requirements Each practice law state has different education and experience requirements for licensure, but all these states require interior designers to pass the exam given by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ). To take the NCIDQ exam, applicants must have at least six years of combined interior design work experience and college-level education. Although the NCIDQ offers applicants several ways to meet these requirements, the council does not approve applicants who have not completed one of the six available eligibility routes.

What a gorgeous home! A Craftsman Bungalow with 2 front facing gables and 1 side facing gable. I suggest this design for the fireplace. Holds to the style, yet works in the updated room. Research the two brothers, Charles Sumner Greene and Henry Mather Greene who designed the bungalow on the West coast in the early 1900’s. My guess is they are the original architects of this style and maybe designed your house. Who knows?