Making a house, into a home

Lately most of my clients have been seeking help with their existing homes. Time after time I find people who have been in their home for awhile and still are not sure what to do with their stuff! So I tell them THROW IT ALL OUT!! Just kidding that is what most think I will say when I get to their home. Sometimes it just takes a new set of eyes to see solutions to each room.

Iwas approached by a friend not to long ago with this same issue. They have been in a new home for about a year and a half, and struggled with certain rooms. One room to start with was the Living Room they had past issues with seating they did not want to feel overwhelmed with large sofas and wanted it to have a feel of more space and have functional seating that would really be used by all. Also needed just a few things to finish of the room.

After a consultation and some brainstorming a design was presented...They wanted more seating, but not a large sofa which would take up the room. The love seat seemed to fit well. The thought of 2 chairs was considered but could be a bit much, we were already keeping 2 chairs on the room.

With the ottomans even more seating if offered with additional function.

The Drapery panel style and color were inspired by an existing rug used in the room.

Throwing in a plant can really add to any room it is simple solution and something anyone can add it will always go with any room.

A few new lamps and some other existing pieces from the owners personal collection and now they call this living room home.

DIY Gifts

These days it seems to be worry for some when it comes to gift giving. With tight budgets it can be quiet hard to get the perfect gift for your loved ones and friends. I think it is a great idea to give a gift that shows one of your talents. It could be painting, scrap booking, maybe even gardening. Taking the time to create the perfect gift I think really shows how much you care for someone.

One great thing I like to give especially first time home buyers is a render of their home. Taken from a simple picture and designing it to look like a sketch! It makes a really great house warming gift. I have done it for many people and what I once thought was a gift I have done way to many times is now thought of as a specialty by my friends. Some have even requested the drawing to be their gift before I can even ask what they need for their new home. I really enjoy taking the time to create something they will treasure.

Here is one of my favorites I did for a friend, she actually passed it on to another friend to give them a housewarming gift. Currently I am working on a really cool one that includes a render of the home and the house plans. I will post a picture of it once it is framed.

I wonder what creative gift can you think of to give??

Coming In For A Landing...

Today I was thinking about one spot in the home that gets overlooked. The landing of a stairway can be a hard and tough place to put a piece of furniture, but why not make a focal point. After all the landing is a high traffic spot so placing some eye catching art or furniture is a real great idea.

One of my favorites...

A few months ago I got a chance to work with the wonderful designers at Signature Homes and any chance I get to work with my old friends it is great. This table found a perfect spot in the landing! The size is great and the color is fun.

Where might I pick up this table??? Well it can be found at one of Birmingham's newest hot spots for great furniture Nadeau located in downtown Homewood. Yes if you know me well I do work there and it is great to see all the wonderful pieces.

So take the time and see what you could do with a landing or small area in your home. I gave the same table above (painted red) to a friend for a wedding gift they found a perfect spot for it in their bath room. Another great spot to add interest. Maybe you could add a piece with character like the one above, or some really great art.

Looking To Blog

Well I have been thinking about starting a blog!! After spending many hours reading other blogs and seeing other designers talents and ideas I decided to join everyone else. It makes you wonder will others read your blog... will they enjoy it...Well only time will tell.

I have been out of design school for almost two years, I have always enjoyed design and had a good sense of space and proportion. While in school I began to understand a good designer is for the most part talent and desire. I have really worked with a lot of great people and continue to learn something new each time. Many times I know my clients think they have gained so much from working with me, honestly it is the other way around. Just the chance to help someone with their home is truly a gift to me.