Wish List
What look or feel do you want the space to have? Think of what you like in terms of colors, style and overall feel. If you’re looking for a calming environment in the bedroom, then maybe white walls, bedding and furniture (as shown here) are a good approach. I always recommend that clients create their own ideabook for each space and add comments on each photograph. Think about what it is in each photograph that inspires you, such as the color on the walls, the artwork, a piece of furniture or the overall feeling. Include information and pictures of appliances, plumbing fixtures, lighting fixtures, cabinet and door hardware, and flooring materials if these will be elements in your project. Consider what speaks to you. Is there anything you personally cherish? Recently a client of mine traveled to Europe and fell in love with a colorful silk scarf that she brought back. This set the tone for her family room. We painted the walls white to provide a neutral backdrop that allowed us to add color throughout. We added a tan sofa with colorful pillows and an accent piece of furniture painted a color taken from the vibrant scarf. A neutral rug grounded the space, and we brought the scar...
Here’s another example. If your countertops are full of mail, keys, homework, magazines, electronic devices and so on, then maybe a main station is for you. A piece of furniture that has numerous compartments or drawers can help store those miscellaneous items. If clutter collects in your family room, you might consider side tables with drawers or open side tables with a large basket or wooden crate for magazines, books and knitting supplies. Or maybe an ottoman that allows for storing items inside, such as blankets, pillows and
Install speakers and dimmers. A bright and quiet kitchen may be ideal for the everyday, but parties are quite the opposite. Lights are dimmed, and music gets turned up. Dimmers are easy to install, and they give good ambience for a party. This kitchen has a nearby television and speakers, so guests and cooks can keep their eye on the game while hanging out in the kitchen.
Audio system—this open-plan kitchen — connected to a dining area and living area — features built-in speakers in the ceiling. Although it’s easier to install these during a remodel, it’s not too difficult to add them to an existing kitchen. Consider hiring an acoustical consultant to help figure out the best places to install speakers. Using built-in speakers throughout your entertaining areas allows you to play music more quietly and still hear it in different ro
Free prints or old calendar images. Here a salvaged window makes for a creative and interesting way to display a series of botanical prints. You can find free botanical images from the New York Public Library as well as other online sources. Or, if you have an old calendar you’ve kept because you love the images in it, why not display your favorite ones in a window like the one shown here? Alternatively, you could mount your calendar prints individually in a grid arrangement to get a similar effect.
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