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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2013-02-01 09:17:32

Q-I am wondering if anyone has done any trend spotting for home décor this Spring? What is your take?

A-It is definitely time for 2013 trend spotting! This is true because home trends closely follow trends on the catwalk, and we are in the midst of Fashion Week. So, to get a good idea of what is hot for the home, look no further than your favorite designers for some inspiration. This year, Spring interior design is strongly influenced by nature. Shades of white, brown natural tones, wooden surfaces, rattan and other simple, natural materials set the foundation for the fresh new trend theme named ”Fresh”. Expect to see a lot of a color being called "spicy fudge" which is sort of between a fudge and butterscotch color. Another favorite and playful color is a one that is a gray/lilac, which works well when accessorizing. One of the hottest trends is taking these colors and putting them against a bold and unexpected background, such as using wood and rattan against a bold colored wall. If you love a punch of color, there is something for you too. Tribal trends bring in a host of colors, patterns, and textures. Both in fashion and in interior design, today's trends invite you mix patterns and play with color. The best thing about design today is that it encourages experimentation. It reflects a new optimistic outlook that embraces individual style. You will find that whatever you love in color or accessories will find a home in your Spring design.

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2012-11-19 11:23:20

Q- This holiday season we will have a house filled with visitors, so I want to do my best to create a festive and beautiful atmosphere. I love what I see in magazines but would have a hard time recreating the beautiful but costly scenes. Are there any trends that you recommend that are beautiful, simple, and affordable? Thank you for your advice.

A- Yes, absolutely! Certainly, magazines have much more at their disposal than the average person, but there is no reason you cannot create a holiday décor worthy of gracing the pages of any magazine. One of the hottest holiday decorating trends this year is mixing festive décor items with "upcycled" items for a charming holiday atmosphere filled with surprises around every corner. In this trend you might see a beautiful display of candles in vases, professionally created wreathes, and elegant stockings hung by the fireplace. You might also see some old ice skates spray painted in a shimmery icicle effect and tied with ribbon which hang from a chair for a whimsical vignette. Antique toys or teddy bears with some holiday greens can make a fun display as well. Let your imagination soar! The best thing about this trend is that it does not take a huge investment to achieve a stunning effect. All you need to do is think of a particular theme, style, or color trend that you would like to see, buy a few showpieces that set off the concept, and complement it with upcycled do-it-yourself items and repurposed pieces to tell a story. You might invest in some fabulous fabric for a tablecloth, purchase a few oversized candles, with pedestals and pair the display with items you already own. Add some beaded garland strands and a few ornaments. In this style, there are no limits or boundaries-- and that is what makes it so lovely. Use your imagination and let the ideas come. Try to envision even the most common items as part of your celebration. Suddenly, that old window frame is painted white and the perfect place to highlight a simple wreath and cookie cutters become tree ornaments. Once you have your idea in mind, hit the home décor stores, craft aisles, home improvement stores and your own home and collect your treasures. Once the stockings are hung with care, and you have spray painted, sprinkled, and glittered--- you will have a home ready for a wonderful celebration. May your holidays be bright and filled with joy!

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Home Furnishings

John Harrison

2012-11-19 11:21:34

Q- I grew up in a family that used only artificial Christmas trees-- my mom could not stand the mess of pine needles. Now, I am recently married and my husband grew up with only fresh trees. So, I am giving the fresh trees a shot this year. Can you give me any tips for keeping the tree fresh, healthy, and with minimal loss of needles?

A- Even if you prefer artificial trees, it is hard to resist the beauty that a live tree can add to your holiday season. You will be happy to know that beauty does not have to be hampered with an endless mound of pine needles in your living room! Here are a few tips for keeping your tree green and healthy throughout the holiday season: • Select the right tree. First, make sure it is as fresh as possible. You can ask the seller when it was cut and compare to other offerings to get the freshest tree possible. Look for trees that have been kept in shelter, and whose needles are moist and soft and do not fall off to the touch. • Consider the type of tree. Different types of trees shed more or less needles and have various levels of tolerance. Noble firs and Grand Firs have the best needle retention and when cut fresh can last up to four weeks. • Cut off an inch of trunk to expose the best surface area for water absorption. • Spray the tree with an antitranspirant which slows water loss from the needles. • Choose a location for the tree. Place the tree away from heat sources such as vents, and fireplaces. • Keep the tree well-watered. Remember not to let the water level drop below the end of the trunk or a seal will form that prevents proper water absorption. • Use lights sparingly. Remember, even though the lights are small, they do give off some heat that will dry the tree when used for long periods. • Do not over-heat your home. The cooler the temperatures, the longer the tree will last. • For easy clean up, remember to use a tree removal bag at the base of the tree. Remember to turn off the lights and unplug them overnight and when you are not at home! Have a beautiful and safe holiday season.

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Home Furnishings

Dan Longan

2012-11-19 10:50:27

Q- I have to throw a last minute Christmas party in my home for important business associates. Food is not a problem as I will have it catered, but the idea of decorating has me concerned. I need to get my home decorated quickly and beautifully. I would like to have it look professional, clean and crisp. Can you provide ideas on how I can accomplish this with minimal stress?

A- Hosting a party for business associates is important, and can cause a great deal of stress in planning. You can take off that stress though when you leverage the right kind of help and make wise choices in decorations. First, choose a vendor that not only has what you need but can also help install and take down your applications. This will help save time and frustration and let you concentrate on other aspects of the party. Next, consider the type of decorations. Greenery is always a classic choice and does not require too much time investigating trends or trying to match your other décor. You can choose from a wide selection of mixed greens, wreaths, garlands, and traditional plants such as poinsettia. Work with the vendor to cover all your needs, including table arrangements so that you have the crisp continuity for which you are looking. In addition, another helpful consideration is choosing the types of trees and greenery that last longer. For example, trees grown in Michigan take on the SEK climate well and last much longer before shedding needles. This is particularly helpful for planning holiday events. A great choice is to buy a potted tree that you can plant later in your own landscape or donate to the business or fellow worker. Once the home is all festooned in the greenery and lights, you have a beautiful, professional and festive display to welcome your guests. May your party be successful, and your holidays bright!

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2012-11-07 11:56:26

Q- What are your projections of home décor trends in 2013?

A- Understanding home decorating trends in 2013 requires knowledge of the world we live in. Wall Street is predicting growth, analysts are seeing strong signs of recovery in the job markets and the president of the United States will have just started a new four year term. All this means stronger consumer confidence combined with a new sense of reserve. When the economy became stressed, homeowners hit the pause button on furniture purchases and home renovations. They stood back, watched their savings and retirement accounts take a roller-coaster ride, and generally stopped investing in home decor. Now that sentiment is turning an important and well-decorated corner. Today the emphasis is changing from ‘Where can I save the most money’ to ‘What’s the perfect piece that totally reflects me.’ It is a great shift that offers a wide latitude for design. Low cost and highly stylized decor features in a home are prized in 2013 leading to a greater appreciation of features such as exposed wooden beams, stone flooring, marble tops and textured walls. Creature comforts that make a home unique may also see expanded inclusion of artwork, statues and antique tables. Next year you can expect to see a greater use of stripes, florals, and animal prints for those pops of color and interest. For colors, you should expect to see navy blue used as a neutral, the way you would see black used in design. Mellow yellow is another color that will be a popular neutral. Last year was all about orange, and this year it is power red--but used in moderation. In home décor style, 2013 brings a new look at the femme fatale look of the 1940's and a surge of popularity in metropolitan design, echoing the clean lines of boutique hotels.

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Home Furnishings

Kimberly Clark

2012-11-07 11:23:35

Q- We are hosting the family holiday dinners this year. I want to have everyone at one long table. Do you have any suggestions on affordable, stylish, and attractive ways to decorate the table? I would like something that adds elegance, like floral arrangements, but something to keep in mind is that I'd have to have multiple of them.

A- Fortunately, it does not have to cost a bundle to make a table beautiful, even when you need to dress one long table, or many of them. However, having a particularly long table arrangement, as you mention, does present certain issues of continuity that you will want to consider. Floral arrangements are always a festive choice that adds beauty and elegance to any table. When you have several tables, having one centerpiece per table makes sense; but what do you do when you have one long one? Here are some things you will want to avoid: • Too many arrangements that crowd the table • Arrangements that obstruct view • Table arrangements that create a feeling of separate spaces In order to keep the continuity and add to the feeling of a family table rather than just separate tables pushed together; consider using smaller floral arrangements that look very similar to each other. Try using a monochromatic theme and then tying each arrangement visually to the next with complementary items such as curled ribbons, spray painted pinecones, jars with lights in them, candles, or greenery. Make sure the eyes are drawn along a path from one end to the other, suggesting a visual story that includes everyone at the table. Again, avoid large items that will obscure the view. One fun option is to alternate floral arrangements and candy filled apothecary jars on the table. When it is time to be seated, it is always fun to see who is a kid at heart! Really, the creative options are endless. One way to get the ideas flowing is talk to your florist and find out about your options. Once you see the choices, it will spark even more ideas that are creative.

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Home Furnishings

Hillary Houston

2012-10-03 10:08:23

Q- I was wondering if you had any ideas for decorating a dorm room affordably. I really like things that are fun and unique and love color.

A- I understand that decorating a dorm room can be difficult. The small space and limited budget can dampen your inner interior designer spirit if you let it! The good thing is though; it does not have to quench your style or your design enthusiasm. Fortunately, you have very affordable options to add color and excitement to your space. First, consider adding that outrageous accent piece to your decor. While you cannot go crazy with an entire room if you share the space, a bold and colorful accent piece can add so much and really make you feel at home. Consider some wild furniture, crazy bright colors and even some with additional designs like zebra, lace, sports themes. Since you must have functional pieces as well, why not consider some colorful and crazy fun bookshelves to house all of your study materials? Fun designs make going back to school bearable I think. While making your own 'decor statement' consider incorporating some school themed items to add even more fun, show your school pride, and bump up that enthusiasm. When you choose a few statement pieces, you can save money on a complete room makeover and spend money in other worthy areas. Remember, while eating Top Ramen is a college rite of passage, it is still nice to afford some coffee or a real meal now and then. Best wishes as you hit the books!

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2012-08-30 08:49:48

Q- What is faux bois? How is it implemented in home décor?

A- Faux bois is French for "false wood" and is the latest revived decorating trend. Faux-bois lets you bring the lovely rustic and earthly qualities of wood grain in to your home in new and fascinating ways. Faux-bois is anything that was made to appear wood grained or having appeared pulled directly from nature. Typically, these items are made from cast stone, cast iron, cement, or painted to have a wood grain appearance. Today, this decorating trend is experiencing a new life in everything from trendy table settings to dramatic statement pieces, with plenty of room for do-it-yourself projects. How you implement faux-bois depends on how much of a statement you want to make. If you are a little more conservative, you could start small with a faux-bois planter filled with moss and ferns or even add a few faux-bois desk accessories to bring the peaceful feeling of the woodland to your space. Cool accessories like false wood chip coasters or trivets can add a touch of outdoor elegance to any table. If you really love the richly textured rustic look, consider working larger and more attention grabbing pieces into your design. The choices are nearly endless as new pieces are cropping up everywhere from your local home décor boutique to online venues. With very little investigation for example, you can find elegant dining room tables, visually interesting coffee and side tables, bedroom sets and more. Faux-bois also offers a wide range of opportunity for do-it-yourself projects. If investing in more items is not your aim, you could consider giving pieces you already own a wood grain make over. Drawer and cupboard fronts are prefect for this application. You will need to invest in a curved graining tool and some glaze or paint. Check out some instructions online for examples of what you need, and how to execute it. It might also be wise, to practice on a piece of cardboard or something you don’t really care about before tackling the project of your desire. But with a little effort, you can create a faux wood look that will fool the best.

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2012-08-02 11:28:04

Q- I am moving to a very small (660 sq ft) apartment and need some design help to make it work. The space has a small kitchen area on the end, divided from the rest of the space by a bar countertop. The bathroom and bedroom are side by side and run the length of the next wall. The bedroom is small, but has a large walk-in closet. The rest of the space is comprised of a small entry and small living room. I need it to work as a mature and beautiful living space and carve out a small office somehow. Your help is deeply appreciated.

A- It may seem like an impossible task, but it is possible to have all that you need and want in a small space. Here are my suggestions in making it work beautifully. First, make the most of kitchen space by investing in a few quality utensils and multifunctional pans and dishes. Use space saving aids whenever possible and remove all unnecessary items. Conserve space by using a small table and some stylish folding chairs that can be stored out of the way when not in use. Look for pieces that can serve as artistic design pieces that stand alone. One option for workspace would be the kitchen table, so consider leaving one cupboard free to conceal work essentials. Next, for the bedroom, you do not have to forfeit comfort for space. Choose minimal but comfortable pieces and bring in the style in your choice of accessories. Think about what you really need in your room, and do without the rest. You also have several workspace options in your bedroom. Instead of nightstands, use two small and functional tables which can serve as an office station. Another option would be to bring in a wardrobe to house your clothing, and convert your walk-in closet into a small but efficient workspace. When you think about the living room, you want it to be comfortable and multifunctional. If you need extra sleep space, choose a convertible sofa and build around it. Keep pieces few and ones that are not only stylish but help in space management. A bright colored storage ottoman can serve as seating, a coffee table, and a place to stow away extra bedding, for example. Add statement decorator pieces, use luxurious fabrics, and add dramatic up-lighting. Naturally, your living room also holds office space potential. There are many companies that specialize in ultra efficient space-saving office furniture online and with a little research, you can find one that sells something that will fit your space and design aesthetic. Be sure to add visual interest where your eyes are drawn naturally, and where you want to guide attention. For example, you might want to draw attention to the something beautiful on the wall you first see upon entering, rather than a workspace in the same area. Once you begin, I think you will find that designing for a small space can really be a lot of fun. Enjoy your new home!

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2012-08-01 16:12:06

Q- I love candles and want to decorate my home with them. Can you give me some pointers? Thanks in advance for your help.

A- Candles are a wonderful and popular way to beautify your home no matter the style of home décor. In fact, 7 out of 10 US households use candles in decorating their homes and candle sales are estimated at $2 billion annually. Today, consumers are using candles as a focal point of interior design as well as for the sense of relaxation and indulgence it brings to any room. First, you need to know that you have vast choices in types, styles and scents. It is estimated that there are over 10,000 different candle scents available in the United States. While that number is astonishing, it is understandable when you realize that consumers list "scent" as most important in choosing candles for their home. Choose scents that are pleasing to you and that reflect the mood you are trying to create for the space. If you want a cozy feel, you might choose caramel, apple, or cinnamon. For a tropical, get-away-from-it-all feel you might choose coconut, pineapple, or mango. Next, you will want to consider the style of your home, and compliment that with your choice in the style of candle, candleholder, and candle color. There are many different and exciting candleholders out there, from tall striking holders to colorful art glass lanterns. However, do not restrict yourself to those choices alone. Anything that can hold a candle upright and capture drips is a potential holder. I have seen a very creative candle display using canning jars. Displaying candles in home décor also involves deciding on how to group them. Try groups of odd number and various heights to add visual interest. One thing to know about candles is that not all candles are created equal. Many candles are pure paraffin while others have a combination of paraffin, bee’s wax or soy wax. Depending on the purity of wax can determine how clean the candle will burn in your home & how much time the candle, will actually burn. So sometimes, it’s worth spending a little more on a candle to keep soot out of your house and have a candle that will burn for many hours. My favorite clean burning candles have a soy blend and nice fresh scents.

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2012-06-01 11:34:14

Q: Can you give me your best tips for decorating a bedroom? I’d like to use it as a simple guideline as I (try) to do each of our bedrooms one at a time.

A: Sure! Much about decorating is about your own personal flair, but here are some of my best tips to help keep your project on track. 1. Set the mood with color and pattern. No matter what style you choose, a well-placed pop of color or pattern can set any mood you would like to create. Do not be afraid to incorporate bold touches to an otherwise subdued room, or to mix patterns. It is all about personal style. 2. Make the headboard a focal point of interest. Whether it is an upholstered work of art, or a bold piece of reclaimed beauty, and interesting headboard steals the show. 3. Create privacy. From room darkening shades to layers of lush fabric canopies, remember to make the room a retreat. 4. Furnish for comfort and use, as well as beauty. That oversized chair may be a thing of beauty in the store, but unless you have ample room, make sure to choose your furnishings well. 5. If you are going to splurge, do it on the bedding. Nothing sets off the beauty of a room more than luxurious bedding. 6. Traditional is not always necessary. Forego with the matching bedside night stands if they are not your thing and opt instead for what you need, or what thrills you, whether it is a writing desk and chair, or a small dresser to add extra storage, they do not always have to match. They just have to make you happy. 7. Rather than a footboard, take advantage of the space with a backed bench for convenience and a stand out classic look. 8. Remember lighting. Great spaces have lighting for function and for design. 9. Employ looks that last. Kids are not the only ones that “out grow” the look of a room. Avoid the truly kitschy and opt to express yourself using broader themes of color and texture. 10. Invest in organizing the closet. Nothing can spoil the mood of a room than closet overflow. I hope these tips help keep you on track. Happy decorating!

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2012-04-20 11:25:53

Q: I have decided to freelance and work from home. We have a small guestroom which I want to repurpose as my office. Can you give me some ideas on how to make it beautiful, but very functional since space is limited?

A: Certainly! With the trend toward working remotely in so many industries, there are many ideas and products that will help produce a beautiful space that is efficient and tailored to your needs. When decorating a home office, blend professionalism with a dash of coziness. It should be beautiful, but a space that inspires, not distracts. First, consider the look and feel to be accomplished. Should the office feel like a quiet study, a hub of creativity, modern, industrial, or contemporary? All of your subsequent choices should consider that ultimate goal. One of your most important tools is color. If the rest of your home is more subdued, consider differentiating the space with a color that inspires you. No matter what your ultimate design goal, color is important in making it happen—whether it is a striking blue wall used to display projects, or pops of color that provide design cohesion. Consider adding color to normally mundane office furniture by recovering an office chair with decorator fabric for example. Space and efficiency are important concerns for home offices. There are many ways to make the most of every inch of space and still not feel overwhelmed or cluttered. First, consider what is really need in the office. If you do not needed lots of storage, or run a paperless office, consider keeping file cabinets (and their alternatives) to a minimum. On the other hand, if you have a substantial amount of things that need to be stored, make provisions for that or those items will take over your space. • Consider storage options that are visually appealing as well as functional. Cubby-style storage for example can house baskets and interest while still being useful. • Consider your workflow and place working items logically. • Make sure you have enough lighting. If not, consider a wall mounted desk lamp to save space. • Look for unused space and consider useful options like adding a storage seat beneath a window, shelves to line a high ceiling, or a pull out workspace. • Make space do double duty as much as possible. The tops of storage spaces can be work or display areas for example. I hope these pointers get you off on a wonderful design adventure!

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2012-03-27 10:30:15

Q: I have a step-daughter that visits the home three weeks of the year. Since our home is small, every room sort of does double duty, including her bedroom which doubles as a guestroom. I would like to redecorate her room to make it more inviting and a room that she would be proud to call her own, but still be functional to any visiting adults. Any ideas?

A: Fortunately, there is a growing trend to accommodate those who, for various reasons, are working toward making every room and the furnishings in them multitask to the fullest extent. The result is a proliferation of fabulous new designs, fabrics, pieces, and ideas that will make any space feel inviting. If you want to make your step-daughter’s space uniquely her own, yet still be one that would comfortably accommodate adult guests, here are a few tips to help you get started. • Avoid painting the room in a way that is only appealing to a child. Instead, use an attractive background which will showcase the rest of the room. • Instead of child size furniture, think of pieces that work well for any age yet still express the child’s likes and creativity. For example, instead of a student desk, try a cool modern table which can be used elsewhere or repurpose an antique door and build something new. Think neutral pieces which serve as one layer of a design. • Use accent pieces to add color and more of the child’s personality. Accessories can go a long way in making a space feel unique and owned yet can be changed as the child’s interests or the needs of the room change. • When thinking of pictures, choose pieces that highlight the child’s interests, but ones that are not excessively juvenile. • Store toys in containers that can grow with the child rather than ones that define the age of the occupants. • Use photos and small collections to personalize the room. If necessary, these things are easily stored so that visiting grandparents or friends do not feel as if they are intruders in the space. Remember that something as simple as a choice in bedding helps define the space. By choosing simple and functional foundational pieces and highlighting with bedding and accessories, you can make the space special and unique for your stepdaughter and beautiful and relaxing for guests.

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2012-02-28 10:01:53

Q: We bought the house we are in because we loved that it has so many windows and brought in so much light. Now we have had the same tired window treatments for years because changing them all seems like a monumental task, not to mention costly. Please give me some creative ideas and pointers on how to choose. Our home décor is sort of “cottage” in style.

A: Many aspects of interior design provide the ideal opportunity to express your creative and artistic side. Although challenging, windows highlight your talent unlike anywhere else. There are many things that guide choices in window treatments, which help to narrow down the choices. Most people remember to think about the widow size, type, and style, but forget to place importance on the many other things that will help make the choices both beautiful and functional. When considering your choices, remember to consider the type of room, the room’s architecture, and the décor. You asked for creative ideas, and today choices abound and you are not boxed in to traditional options. In fact, your options are only limited by your own preferences. Your choice in cottage style also lends itself well to “out-of-the-box” thinking, and many do-it-yourself treatments. If you are handy with a sewing machine, you can choose some stellar fabric and stitch your own roller blinds to add your own flair. Another 2012 trend popular for an eclectic, cottage, and shabby chic feel is using a collection of shutters (particularly on a wall that has many windows) as the window treatment. Wood treatments are very popular, even in decorative hardware, and are beautifully paired with natural fibers. Using window treatments to add a touch of luxury is another option. Rich luxe fabrics and embellishments add flair to any room. Consider incorporating your colors and introducing silks and damasks and special hardware. The choices are limitless, so enjoy the process and embrace a wonderful opportunity to let your design shine!

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2012-01-30 11:24:47

Q: I love both fashion and home décor. I am no expert, but I enjoy the topics. I have noticed that more fashion designers have home décor lines that look a lot like their fashion lines. Knowing that much of what is in my closet today will be noticeably out of style next year, would the same hold true for the home décor line? I would like to follow some of the trends, but really can’t afford to change everything “hourly” as my husband says.

A: True, more fashion designers are bringing their design aesthetic to the home, which provides a new world of opportunity. If you love Fendi, John Jacob, or Missioni for example, then why not bring that same design feel to your home? While it is true that some elements can eventually look dated, in home décor as in fashion, the trick is to blend classic elements along with trendy elements that can be easily and affordably changed. Most of us would like a bottomless decorating budget, but have limitations. I would suggest using designer signature pieces to create vignettes as focal points in your home, rather than trying to overhaul design every few months. For example, rather than redecorating your entire kitchen, invest in a striking chandelier, bold table cloth, and accent picture on the wall that are in keeping with other design elements already in place. The living room is another easy place to bring in your favorite clothing designer’s home design aesthetics. Think lighting, side and coffee tables, pillows and pictures before buying bigger signature pieces. Another option is to let your favorite designer inspire the designer in you. Rather than adding signature pieces, add pieces that pay homage to the design using the elements that strike you. I bet you will be amazed at the style you possess. Remember, if you bring in what you love, the chances are pretty good you will be able to live comfortably with it for some time. If you want to keep your décor trendy, but don’t want to spend a fortune, I have a one more tip. In the fashion world, you can usually find a look for less, and that is also true in the décor world. If you look, you will most likely find what are called “knock off” décor pieces that remind you of a particular designer piece. If you keep up with the designer trends in magazines (like this one) and home improvement TV shows, you will be able to spot those similar items at a much less price than the originals. Design is exciting. Let it reflect your passion!

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2011-12-27 13:45:08

Q: I was wondering if you could give me some simple ways to freshen up my home décor. I am not looking for a complete make over, just touches that make it look as if I have done more than I actually have!

A: There are plenty of ways you can give everything a fresh look without getting too involved. In fact, with a little resourcefulness and creativity, even a few touches can make a huge impact. Here are a few ideas to help give your creativity some direction. 1. Replace curtains with a fresh color. If you are handy, you can make your own and splurge on fabric that is more expensive. 2. Add some punchy pillows that incorporate a fresh and vibrant color. (The color of the 2012 is a radiant and encouraging “Tangerine Tango” so you will see it in plenty of accent pieces in it in stores soon). 3. Add new accent chairs that bring up the color. 4. Change your art to reflect a new attitude. 5. Modernize your lighting. Nothing dates a home or décor more than dated lighting. 6. Change the throw or area rugs. 7. Hang mirrors to reflect more light. 8. Incorporate a few new key objects of interest for your coffee table, mantle or bookshelf such as whimsical ceramic pieces. 9. A fresh coat of paint in a new color not only brightens your room, but also will inspire other changes. 10. Replace a piece of furniture with something that adds more interest. 11. Experiment with new furniture arrangements. You may find something that opens up a new focal point or adds new interest. 12. Freshen up accessories that you already own with a coat of unexpected color. Whether you are redoing an entire room or just adding new inspiration to the room, you do not need that $8,000 chair you saw in the magazine to create the ambiance you want. All you need is imagination, inspiration, and a little patience.

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Home Furnishings

Jolene Holdaway

2011-12-27 09:58:59

Q: With my growing family, my house feels like it gets smaller and smaller. Moving is not an option for us. Do you have any suggestions for home improvement projects or suggestions for ways to help our house “live” larger and how can we implement these suggestions?

A: With the New Year just around the corner, now is a great time to think about a home improvement project. Consider re-organizing or re-purposing your space into neat and well functioning areas that are able to work double-duty for your growing family. This is much easier than you may think. Entry areas, foyer and even dining rooms often have under utilized space. For example, create a quiet reading nook in your dining room space by simply adding one or two comfortable upholstered chairs and a small side table. Also consider using traditional pieces of furniture in non-traditional ways. A sideboard server can also make a fantastic desk space. If your home improvement consideration is much larger and will require contractors it is wise to also consider hiring a professional decorator or interior designer. Many decorators and designers will offer free consultations to discuss your project and will be able to guide you in the sometimes overwhelming processes of space planning, color selection and furniture placement. No matter the size of your project, it is always helpful to be as organized as possible in your new space. Purge items that you no longer need or use. Designate your project space to accommodate no more the two or three task and set up a “station” for each task. Organize each “station” with containers, bins and appropriate storage or shelving. You will be pleasantly surprised how easy these ideas are to implement in your home. Happy decorating in 2012!

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2011-11-21 10:09:12

Q: We hare hosting a holiday party and I want my home to be perfect and filled with holiday cheer. I am not looking for anything kitschy though as it is a business function. What are the holiday design trends for this year?

A: It is amazing to think that while most of us are just beginning to think of design trends, the design world is already predicting and shaping holiday design trends years ahead! The great thing about that is designers have spent time creating concepts within those trends and can pass along plenty of ideas. According to Christmasworld, an international event held in Germany that presents the latest designs for the next year, and The Trend Curve, an international authority on home décor design, this year’s design trends include incorporating exotic cultures, 1950’s inspired designs, and simplicity and nature. Culture Inspired Holiday Design One of the hottest trends this holiday season is Scandinavian inspired concepts with simple lines, ornaments in red and white or blue and white patterned after the traditional sweater design, and unpainted wood carved animals such as reindeer, bear, and wolves. 1950s Trend Nostalgia ranks high this year and when you think of design trends, think vintage. Designers presented fabulous concepts incorporating the best of the 1950s including bubble lights, colorful glass balls, angel hair or silver tinsel and aluminum trees lit by color wheels. Simplicity and Nature Silver and a lighter shade of green are being paired this year for a “frosted greenery” look that reflects the beauty of nature. Using natural elements, such as floral displays in all white is also a trend adding a sophisticated touch to the season. However you decide to make your home festive for your party, the main idea is to make it enjoyable for all. Create a comfortable conversational seating plan, serve some tasty food and offer your guests a cocktail to get them in the spirit of the event. Sometimes less is more, so just be selective of your décor and the event will be a sure success! May your event be beautiful and filled with cheer!

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Home Furnishings

Jolene Holdaway

2011-11-17 13:28:22

Q: I haven’t even decorated for Christmas yet. How can I make my home look festive with such little time left?

A: Christmas decorating doesn’t have to be as challenging as we make it out to be. Quick decorating ideas would be to first make sure to set up your Christmas tree, wreaths and garland or all of these if you like. Accent your tree with colors that you wish to accent within your home. Next step, find yourself some accent pillows that go with your Christmas decor, or throws that would warm up your living space. Add floral or plant arrangements that spread holiday through out your home. A bundle of fresh boughs tied with a lovely bow would bring in the outdoors in a complimentary way, not to mention a nice natural scent to finish off the project.

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2011-10-20 10:58:03

Q: I have a big dine-in kitchen in addition to the formal dining area. During the holidays, everyone seems to gather in the kitchen, completely missing the holiday atmosphere I try to create in the other rooms. Can you give me any ideas to make my kitchen look more festive?

A: While kitchens seem more utilitarian by nature, they are one of the most fun of all the home spaces to bring some festiveness to the family feast. While a great centerpiece can really set the stage for the holiday spirit, there are many things you can do beyond decorating your kitchen table. Treat your room like a holiday canvas and repurpose kitchen items to add holiday flair. Here are a few ideas that can make any kitchen come to life. 1. Use alphabet cookie cutters tied with fall or winter colored ribbon to spell out a holiday greeting. 2. Make a swag of metal cookie cutter ornaments, clear plastic beads and ribbon that matches your color scheme. 3. Add touches of seasonal whimsy by using creamers as vases and fill with greenery mums, or holly. 4. Use candy and cake stands as decorative pieces by displaying pinecones, oranges and cinnamon sticks and dressing up with ribbon. 5. Use otherwise forgotten spaces to add touches of the season by creating colorful displays such as under butcher blocks and on top of refrigerators. 6. If you have glass in your cupboard doors, affix ribbon to the inside in beautiful patterns. 7. Take vintage pieces, like bread pans or mason jars to create season displays in keeping with a kitchen. 8. Look for items and ideas in home decorating stores to supplement items and ideas you already have. 9. Make the seating area, in this case the kitchen table and chairs more inviting with comfortable touches like chair coverings or small pillows that tie in to your holiday color scheme. 10. If your space is big enough, and conducive to it, add a comfortable accent chair for extra seating while you gather. 11. Add a festive table runner or placemats to your island or bar area for a splash of fall color. 12. Fill a simmer pot with a little water or juice and fall spices, such as pumpkin pie spice & whole cloves. Whether you use a portable simmer pot or your stovetop, it will add an Autumn aroma when you are not actually cooking. The ideas are endless. If you are stuck, try looking in some magazines on decorating or visiting home décor stores to spark your creativity. May you have a wonderful family gathering!

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2011-09-29 12:50:29

Q: Shows like American Pickers and Picker Girls have inspired me to try to repurpose old items into my décor. I am not as creative as they are on some of the shows though and while I may find a particular item interesting, it is hard to translate that into design. Do you have any tips on what sort things are most usable? Where can I look for items to repurpose? How do you blend repurposed items with new and have it look purposeful?

A: Last month we talked about repurposing what you have in your home. This month let’s focus on outside sources for creative repurposing and decorating magic. You do not have to traipse all over the country like they do on those popular shows to find great items to repurpose and add decorating flare to your home. Chances are you have a wealth of opportunity very close to home. First, check out yard sales and estate sales with an eye for decorating. Many times, you can find well-made items, such as furniture, that have great bones. Try to visualize the item in another color or covered in a different fabric. Look for items that are visually stimulating, and think of ways you could implement them. Next, join local online groups that focus on re-homing items to keep them from the local refuse centers. You’ll be astonished at how little effort it takes to give new life to an item that was headed to the landfill. Think outside the box and view the community as a resource. If an old building is going to be demolished soon, find out if you can take a tour and see if there is anything you can use. Look for architectural details that you find pleasing. For example, old doorknobs are often much more detailed than newer ones. Old crown molding can be taken down and reused in the same way or used to add detail to plain cabinets or bookcases or made into frames for art. Thrift stores, junk shops, and even junk yards are also wonderful sources for interesting pieces that you can use in brand new ways. Usability is an issue to keep in mind. Unless you have a staff of handy carpenters, welders and upholsterers, making your vision a reality may cost more time and money than it is worth. That said, some projects such as the simple wiring for a lamp, might be well worth your time to learn.

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Home Furnishings

Jolene Holdaway

2011-09-26 10:23:14

Q: Are you bored with your home decor? Are you puzzled on where to begin?

A: While warm weather was keeping some folks indoors this summer, within the comforting walls of a climate controlled home. Most have already ventured out, as children prepare for the school year and begin to enjoy the fall weather. Something to consider, if you sent your college student off with a portion of your home furnishings, new furniture. Some options may be traditional pieces, contemporary, and transitional pieces. Browse through a variety of art for your home: oils, acrylics or prints. Accessorize your home with a new and different look. Designing a calm relaxing room can be a wonderful and rewarding project. The first step is to identify what is calming for you ,whether it’s a warm day at the beach or a refreshing walk in the park. Maybe an outdoor candle lit evening among great company. Identifying calm and extracting colors may help recreate the peaceful mood desired in your very own home. Beginning with color schemes is an ideal plan followed by decor style. For example, a refreshing walk in the park could allow you to incorporate a raspberry blush or eucalyptus leaves. The room could then be accented with golds, yellows, reds and creams. The fall season is here, and the colors of autumn are popular and bring a relaxing, comfortable feel to your home decor.

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2011-07-01 08:19:00

Question: I am thinking about using some faux finishes in my home interior design. Having never done anything more than a simple one room paint job, is that too ambitious? What are some options and considerations?

Answer: You do sound ambitious indeed! However, there are many faux techniques that can be quickly learned and whose results are quite pleasing, so no need to fear. For those who may not be familiar with the term, faux comes from the French word for false. Faux finishes are painting and staining techniques that replicate more complex or expensive finishes for such things as walls or furniture. The practice has been in use in decorative arts for thousands of years. Today, we have many products on the market make creating faux finishes relatively simple. Before you begin, you might want to investigate all of the many different types of faux finishes and determine what elements you would like to add to your home design. For example, you may want to create a faux rug or transform a child’s room with a denim look. With a little investigation, you’ll find that the options are nearly endless. Some of them include: Sponging, rag rolling, color washing, brushed metals, patina and rust finishes, sand tones, distressing and many, many more. Once you have selected the technique you would like to try, it is a good idea to find a book that covers the technique comprehensively, step by step. Look for ones that provide a shopping list and professional tips that include things like dealing with corners and working in tight spaces. Here are a few important tips to keep in mind: •Follow all instructions for cleaning and prepping the surface. •Practice the technique on something disposable before you begin on the permanent surface. •Spot test the area before you begin. •Always use high quality paints and stains for best results. •Use high quality tools as it will save time on replacements and on problems caused by such things as brush or fiber shedding, bleed through and other poor results. Remember, faux finishes, if done correctly can replicate an expensive look for a more affordable price. I hope these hints will help you get off to a great start!

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2011-06-01 12:22:00

Question: We live in an older home that has many rooms of wallpaper that we want to update. What is the best way to remove the old paper and improve the walls with new paper, paint or texture?

Answer: Last month, we touched base on the removal of wallpaper from drywall. Plaster walls are a bit different. If you have plaster walls, most likely there may be several layers of paper, because it was common to paper every couple years due to soot, which would build up on wall from the heat source used. But the paper was usually very thin. If the paper is older, usually you can soak it with warm water and it will scrape off with a large putty knife. If it is newer paper with a vinyl coating, the top of the paper may pull off, but there may be a paper backing left, which you will need to soak and scrape off. When taking paper off plaster walls, you can use more water to remove it than on drywall because it is a harder surface than sheet rock. Usually, if the plaster wall under the paper is in relatively good shape, the paper will scrape off nicely. If the wall has bulging areas, you may want to reconsider removing the paper because the plaster has most likely pulled away from the lathe in those areas, and the paper may be what is holding the wall together. After working so hard to remove the old paper, you may not want to put new paper up because you don’t want to go through that work again in the future. However, the new wallpapers are not your grandma’s wallpapers. New papers are designed to go on easy and come off easy. Wallpaper companies have heard the complaints, and now many types of wallpaper have easy match marks and will pull off without a lot of effort. There are hundreds of beautiful designs to choose from. Painting is still an option, but be sure you walls look good enough to make the paint look good. Flat paints will show fewer imperfections in your walls than paints with a satin or gloss look. You may need to have a professional re-texture your walls or you can pick up a textured roller to add your own. However, sometimes doing it yourself may not have the finished appeal as hiring a professional. Whatever direction you choose, new wallpaper or paint, a new look will brighten your home and make it feel new again.

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2011-05-01 10:46:00

Question: We live in an older home that has many rooms of wallpaper that we want to update. What is the best way to remove the old paper and improve the walls with new paper, paint or texture?

Answer: Wallpaper is one of those decorating mediums that is either loved or hated. If you were the one who originally picked it out, you may love it for years and years. However, if the wallpaper was already in the home when you moved in, you may hate it. There is, also, paper that you loved when you picked it out, but it looks very outdated compared to the home you would like to have now. Before trying to remove the old wallpaper, there are some things you need to discover first. Are your original walls plaster and lathe, or are they sheet rock (drywall) wallboard? If your home was built before 1950, and has not had any major renovations, the walls are most likely made of plaster over lathe. If your home is newer than 1950, the walls may be sheetrock or a form of gypsum board. Once you know what type of walls you have it will help with the removal of the wallpaper. How to remove wallpaper over newer walls made from drywall board or sheet rock: First, find a seam on the wallpaper and try to pull a corner loose to see if the paper will pull off easily. If the walls were primed and sized (primed for wallpaper), the paper may pull off very easily. If it doesn’t pull off easily, you are in for some work. If the paper does not come off easily, it may have been applied directly to the drywall or sheetrock without first priming or painting the drywall. If this is the case, when you try to remove the paper, the paper from the drywall may also come off, leaving a rough ugly surface. If you find the paper is stuck tight, it may be best to use a wallpaper primer over the old wallpaper and leave it intact. Once the old paper is primed with a latex wallpaper primer, it can be papered over with new paper. If painting is the way you want to go, it is possible to paint the old wallpaper, but don’t expect it to look as nice as new drywall. The seams may show, and the paper may bubble slightly in places. Even if the paper does pull off easy, painting still may not be a good idea unless you texture the wall first. Most walls that are painted were finished for paint when they were first built. The walls for paint almost always have some kind of knock down texture and the seams are finished very smooth, but for wallpaper, the seams are covered and no texture is added. If the paper does come off, but in small pieces, the best way to get it off is to use a steamer. Large steamers can be rented with wallpaper remover attachments. More on plaster walls next month…

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2011-04-01 13:55:00

Question: I have a great patio but it is just not being used. I would like to see it used as more of an outdoor living space and even installed small outdoor kitchen and bar and yet, it just does not work as an extension of the home like I would like. Can you give me some pointers on how to help this space transform?

Answer: It sounds like you have the functionality part satisfied so you are well on your way to making your patio the most popular, and used, part of your property. Many people are in the same position you are, having invested in outdoor living, but find the space lacks the most important element-life! To take your space to the next level, try adding features that make it inviting. First, take care of the obvious by making sure that there is plenty of comfortable outdoor seating. In addition to regular patio chairs and lounges, try adding things that can double as seating when you have extra friends over, such as sturdy side tables, or low walls. Try to think of the space as you would a room in your home. Even the most beautiful room will not get used if it is empty or void of warmth. Include items that add to the enjoyment and functionality of the space, such as handy grilling tools, outdoor lighting, or an outdoor clock. Create focal points of interest, such as using outdoor ottomans that also serve as coffee tables to display outdoor art or used as extra seating. Just like in your home, add elements that add interest such as planters, or statues. Use transition items such as plenty of pillows and cushions made from weather resistant fabrics to create a space that flows from the indoors out seamlessly, making it more likely to be used. The ideas are really endless. When you plan your patio well, you will have created an outdoor space that will become a welcome retreat for everyone in the family.

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2011-03-01 11:31:00

Question: I would like to redecorate or remodel my home. What steps do I need to take to get started and make it a great makeover?

Answer: When you decide you want to improve your home with a makeover, there are several things you should consider before beginning. First, look at your home or the rooms you intend on working on and think about what you don’t like about them in their current state. What could change that would improve their looks? For example, do you need new carpet, or does it just need to be cleaned? Maybe your walls are white and would look warmer if painted a color, or the color on your wall is a color you haven’t seen since the 80’s, and just needs to be updated. Are your window coverings old? Maybe some new blinds, drapes or a valance would help the area. Then, what furniture pieces are you going to keep or get rid of. Can you recover, or refinish some of your furniture or does it just need replaced? You will need to have a budget in mind. Without a budget, you could find yourself spending a lot more than you ever imagined. After you decide how much you have to spend, go shopping or look on line to see how much the things, you are wanting to replace, are costing these days. Next, go through your ideas and find out how far your budgeted money will go. Write your ideas on paper and write beside them what the estimated cost for each will be. You may decide to only do one room for now, and wait awhile to continue on the rest of the house. Another step is to pick a style or theme for your makeover. There are many, many decorating themes in use around. Your home may be suited better for some styles than others. If you live in a CapeCraftman style home, contemporary ideas won’t fit well into your plan, but a Mission or Craftsman style of décor and furnishings will make your home feel complete. However, if you live in a downtown loft, contemporary, clean looks may just be the ticket. You can choose to decorate with a theme that relates to you, such as a golf theme for a den, or roosters in the kitchen. If there are activities or things you enjoy being around, then feel free to bring them into your home. Some themes are also based on geographical areas, such as Italian, Moroccan, or African. Styles are decorating ideas that have made statement throughout the years, like, Victorian, Rustic, Vintage, Traditional, Minimalist, Contemporary, Monochromatic, Shabby Chic and Primitive. All of these styles have unique characteristics that make them what they are. Once you have decided what you like and what you have to spend, now decide how much of the work do you want to do yourself and how much do you want to have hired done. Almost everyone thinks they can paint, but sometimes hiring a professional will make the job much neater and faster doing it yourself. Usually flooring is left to a professional as well, unless you are refinishing a hardwood floor, and want to try it yourself. In most cases, you will need to hire someone along your way for part of your makeover. Most companies offer free estimates, so you can decide if having something done as custom or professionally installed will fit into your budget. Find out what you really like and go from there. You’re the one living in the space, so don’t decorate for show, decorate for you! You won’t have regrets if you make purchases and choose colors you really like. Follow your own instincts and you won’t go wrong. With these simple steps in place, you will be on the road to a fabulous makeover for your home. Feel free to consult with a decorating expert to go over your ideas, and possibly gain a few more. Good Luck!

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2011-02-01 14:24:00

Question: I was putting away my holiday items and realized that I had too much clutter. How can I control the clutter of my storage areas?

Answer: Well I know I’ve been there. I needed to put away seasonal items and there were still old seasonal items left in storage that I didn’t use. As the years go by, the clutter seems to get greater. Well I hope I can help. First off, put to one area all the things that you neglected to use in the past year. Ask yourself, “Why didn’t I use it?” “Do I still need it?” If you decide you don’t need it, now is the time to get rid of it before it gets buried again. If it is seasonal items, you may want to put them in containers that are easily accessible, and give them to charity before that season comes around again. If it is Christmas and you donate it now, most charitable donation places don’t have space to keep it throughout the year, but if you wait until fall to give it to them, they will be able to put it out right away. So be sure to mark those boxes with dates of when to donate, so you don’t forget! If you have items you don’t use anymore, but consider them sentimental, then pass it on to someone in the family who can use and appreciate them. If you have children’s clothing that is still good in good condition, but your kids have outgrown them and you don’t want to take the time to have a garage sale or put them on E-bay, think of friends or neighbors who may have children in those sizes and ask if they would like to have them. At least you will be comforted knowing they are being used by someone you know. When they are done with them, they can pass them on to other friends or take them to a charity. These friends and neighbors will remember you when you need something and its shows that you care for them. Now that we have gotten rid of some things, we can start organizing what we want to keep. A storage area must be more than just a floor space. So much space is wasted from the floor to the ceiling. Look into investing in some shelving or have a carpenter build some shelves. Measure the tubs or containers you already have to give yourself an idea of how much space you will need between your shelves and how deep they will need to be. If you need to invest in some more storage containers, you won’t regret getting them. I prefer clear ones, so if you don’t get everything marked, at least you can see what is in them. Before putting all your keepsakes in containers, you need to sort them and put like things together. This takes some space, but you’ll be glad you did later. Make sure all things that belong together, stay together. So the next time you need to find what you are looking for in storage, you will know exactly where it is. This may also be a time when you decide there are a few more things you don’t need, and put them in boxes to give away or dispose of. Once all of the items are in containers, take the time to mark the containers and put them in order so that they are accessible when needed. If there are things that you won’t need for a long time, put those things up high and put the things you need to get to lower on the shelves. Once everything in your storage area has a place, it will be much easier to keep it organized. Just be sure to put things back where you got them each time you use them. If your storage area is organized, you will be inspired to start on the rest of the house. Just take one room at a time!

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2010-12-01 13:20:00

Question: What are some great holiday gift ideas that I can give to my friends and family that won’t break my budget?

Answer: It’s an age old question! What makes a gift special to most people is the thought that was put into the gift that was given. So if you know just a little bit about the person you’re gifting, there are many ways to put together a special gift. Gift Baskets are an exceptional way to show someone you really care, because they offer the opportunity to make the gift fit the person it is for. When I say “Gift Basket,” I don’t mean it always has to be in a basket. Many things can be used to create that personal gift. Here are some examples: If the person you are buying for loves to cook and loves Italian food, use a stainless steel or porcelain colander as your basket. Add some colorful gourmet pasta and your favorite spaghetti sauce mix. Line the colander with napkins or kitchen towels that go with the theme, and add a couple hot pads and a wooden spoon. If you want more, add some bread dipping spices and a small bottle of olive oil. Maybe you know someone who loves to garden. Use a flower pot as the basket and fill it with everything from a garden apron and gloves to hand tools. If you can find them add some seed packets for that added touch. Add some dried or silk flowers to a bow to give it that garden spark. If you have a guy who enjoys the outdoor life, use a fishing hat and fill it full of all types of fishing lures, bobbers, sinkers and a stringer. Even if he is an avid fisherman, many of these things need often replaced. For the handy-man mechanic, use an oil pan for the basket and find out what type of vehicles he has and give him everything needed to do his own oil change. Make sure this guy likes useful gifts!! For the lady who loves pretty scents. Create a colorful basket of beautifully fragranced candles and diffusers for the home and some nice hand creams. Add some pretty towels and maybe potpourri sachets. To save you some money, it is fine to use a basket you already have to put the gifts in. If you have tissue paper or cellophane wrap to package the final product and a pretty bow, the gift basket you give will be a gift not forgotten soon. Have a wonderful holiday season!

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2010-11-01 13:31:00

Question: I love the idea of decorating the home for the seasons, and but want it to look professional versus as if I just put out a few seasonal items. Can you give me a few ideas on how to achieve a polished and professional look?

Answer: That is a great question, and a fun one to answer! Certainly, fall centerpieces will look out of place surrounded by other things that reflect another season. Seasonal decorating does not have to be costly, or even elaborate to be elegant and festive. Designers achieve that polished look by giving a cohesive context in which to present those seasonal touches. To make a seasonal change, think subtle, yet all encompassing. For example, think of all of the nonpermanent features of a room, and change the ones that can contribute the most to an overall feel. •Replace pillows, throws and area rugs with ones in subtle fall colors. •Consider changing pictures to ones that reflect the new color scheme. •Bring the outdoors in where possible. •Add subtle details like candles in warm colors and choose candleholders that recall fall in color or design. •Replace arrangements with ones that reflect fall in shape, feel and texture. •Use fall flowers and foliage to grace tables and add a beautiful and refined look. •Change the drapery for a complete and polished look. Once the room has become the canvas, adding the more blatantly seasonal items will not create a jarring effect. A group of pumpkins by the fireplace or a fall wreath in an entry will become an added layer of interest in a beautifully remade room.

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

2010-09-01 09:38:00

Question: When choosing new window covering treatments, how do I know what type of blinds or window coverings are best for my windows and my room?

Answer: You will want to decorate your windows for style, comfort and practicality. Your windows can make a big impact on a room when trying to decorate. Go from room to room and ask yourself: 1: How will we use the room? If you are using a computer or watching TV, consider light control to prevent glares. If it is a dining area you may want diffused lighting. The kitchen may need something that is easily cleaned and provide ventilation if you need to open the window. Think of child safety in the kids room, and privacy and light control in bedrooms. Also, bathrooms may need a treatment that can tolerate high humidity. 2. How important are privacy, security and sound absorption? Are you close to a neighbor or do you live on a busy street? Are the windows easily viewed from the sidewalk or street? 3. Do you need to protect fabrics and floors from UV light? UV light can quickly fade furniture fabric, area rugs, and wood. Many window treatments can protect these things from damaging UV light. 4. Is energy efficiency a consideration? Uncovered windows can bring in the beautiful outdoors, but can also impact your energy bills and comfort. Sun in the summer can really heat up a room when the windows aren’t covered and cold air can be controlled in the winter with the right type of treatment also. 5. Finally, look at the big picture: How do you want your windows to coordinate with the rest of your décor? What kind of budget have you allowed and how long will you want to live with these window treatments? Other things to consider are: Directional Differences: Where the light is coming from is important. Know which direction your windows face. North light tends to be cold and clear, so an energy efficient treatment might be a wise choice. Light from the South is warm and strong year round, so consider a light-diffusing window covering to protect your furniture. If your window faces east, bright warm morning light calls for a covering that blocks UV rays. And if light comes from the west, hot, bright afternoons demand solutions that are both light controlling and light diffusing. There are many, many types of window coverings to choose from. Choices that are popular in this era are: 2” wood or faux wood blinds, cellular or pleated shades, roller sun shades, fabric roman shades, custom made fabric panels and specialty shades that are specific to companies such as Hunter Douglas that offer innovative ideas for window coverings. They offer products such as Luminette Privacy Sheers that recall traditional draperies but with a lighter softer feel, and Silhouettes with a similar look in a horizontal type of window shade. Hunter Douglas’s newest innovative product is the Pirouette window shade, which combines the personality of a classic fabric shade with the ability to control light in an entirely new way. It’s a must see for anyone wanting a unique window covering that is exceptionally beautiful and provides many wonderful features. The best way to determine what is right for your home and your window treatments is to have a professional visit your home and show you all the options that are available. Note: Hunter Douglas product names should have a trademark symbol behind them. Some of this information came from Hunter Douglas Copyrighted material that is handed out to customers and on their website. www.hunterdouglas.com

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Home Furnishings

Jolene Holdaway

2010-05-01 14:25:00

Question: How can I give my home a new spring look?

Answer: The colors of spring are all around us. Beautiful colors of all the blooming trees, shrubs and early bulbs. I know we have had days recently that may have looked and felt more fall than spring; but, we can bring inside the bright colors of spring that make us smile! The first thing you might want to do is consider painting some walls a fresh spring color. Light yellow, soft pale green, you might even use a light blue. In recent markets blues are making a comeback in every shade from light pale blue to midnight navy. Another great way to bring spring indoors is with flowers. You may want to do fresh cut flowers, there are a lot of flowers that last for a week and some will last even longer. Permanent floral arrangements can be beautiful with the quality stems that are available. You can freshen your floral arrangements by replacing some of the stems that look a little tired. The ones you would like to use in the arrangement can be cleaned. You may want to change pillows on your furniture to fun spring and summer colors - really announce the change of seasons. Another idea is lightening up the color and weight of your bed covers. I remember my grandmother taking the flannel comforters and blankets off the beds and hanging them out on the clothesline to air out. Seersucker or plisse on the beds, usually white. Next she would take down the winter drapes and put up cotton panels. I loved my grandmother’s house!

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Home Furnishings

Jolene Holdaway

2010-04-01 12:04:00

Question: I’ve had the same pinch pleated drapes up in my living room for almost 15 years. What can I do to make my windows look better?

Answer: The first thing I would suggest is take them down plus the sheers if you have them. Look at the window and see how much light comes in. Light will make so much larger, and brighter. You might want to consider going back with a totally new look; drapery panels with a large grommet that slides on a decorative rod. This is a great look for your living room, dining room, or even the bedroom, plus they are very easy to open and close. Another option for a totally new look could be wood shutters, the wider ones look fantastic. They are available in lots of different woods and stains. The width can vary from 2 or more inches. They are very versatile and can be used in any room.

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Home Furnishings

Scott Francis

2010-02-01 08:42:00

Question: How long should furniture last?

Answer: More often than not, a furniture purchase is an investment. Therefore, the longevity of a piece of furniture is important to know before the purchase is made. However, there are many factors that will influence how long a piece of furniture will last, because there is nothing written in stone that will tell you the life span of furniture. The three main factors that will influence how long a piece of furniture will last are: 1. Quality (how well the piece was constructed by the manufacturer) 2. Usage (how often the furniture is used and how much stress is put on the furniture) 3. Placement in the Home (where the furniture spends most of its time in the home) Quality is the first thing to consider when buying a piece of furniture. The better the quality, the more likely it will last. A sofa, or any other upholstered piece of furniture, for example, can vary greatly in quality, depending on the manufacturer. A hardwood frame instead of a pressed wood frame will increase durability. The higher the density and/or thickness of the foam used in a sofa’s cushions will reduce the amount of foam breakdown over a period of time. Also, the closer the springs are inside the sofa, the less likely you will get the “sagging in the middle” syndrome. There are different gauges of springs to consider as well. The lower the number of spring gauge, the thicker the steel is in the spring. The spring must be durable enough to withstand use, but at the same time flexible enough to be comfortable. Another important feature to look for in a sofa is the stitching of the seams. Are the stitches even and straight? Does the fabric feel tight across the whole body of the sofa frame? In the case of quality for wood pieces, look for the following: • Occasional tables - consider the construction of the joints o On a coffee table or end table, having the legs bolted onto the tabletop underside instead of inserted and glued is preferable to reduce the chance of breakage at the point of insertion. o Examine the weight of the table and, in most cases, the heavier the better. • Bedroom furniture – consider the construction of the drawers o On a chest of drawers, examine the construction of the drawer. Dovetail joints (where the sides and back of the drawer interlock together) are preferred the majority of the time for added strength. • Dining room furniture – consider the construction of the joints o Examine the underside of a dining table to see how the tabletop is attached to the base. Generally, the more bolts used, the better. o Consider the weight of the table – the heavier the better Mattresses have varying qualities that are important to note while shopping. The ticking (the stitching across the top of the mattress) is a quick way to identify the level of firmness – the tighter the ticking, the firmer the mattress. The items to consider as far as the “innards” of a mattress are the coil count, the type of coil used, the type of foam used, and the thickness of the foam layers. Generally speaking, the more coils in the mattress, the better. However, a foam encased coil unit, regardless of how many coils, is a better value. The type of coils used is similar to the springs in a sofa – the gauge of steel gets thicker as the number goes down. Memory foam is a popular choice in mattresses; however, it has a natural tendency to trap heat. Therefore, those who tend to sleep “hot” may prefer latex foam instead, assuming that a latex allergy does not exist. Latex is a natural product of the rubber tree and is breathable, eliminating the problem of retained heat. It is also naturally resistant to mold, mildew, dust mites, and other allergens. Once a piece of furniture is purchased, it should always be used as the manufacturer intended. Therefore, having your children avoid jumping on the furniture will increase its useful life. Also, if a sofa is placed in an infrequently used sitting room, it will most likely last a very long time. A sofa that is used daily for a good length of time will, obviously, take some wear and tear. However, it goes back to the original quality of the furniture to determine how much wear and tear it can take. Some pieces of furniture have weight limits. Therefore, take into consideration the person’s weight who will be using the furniture the most and act accordingly. Pets, of course, are to be considered when determining how long furniture will last. The majority of the time, pets accelerate the decline of furniture longevity. The furniture’s placement in the home is also a key in determining the longevity of its life. Some fabrics and some woods will fade over time if placed in direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures can sometimes lift veneers off of tables, also making the veneers brittle. Also, if the furniture is placed in a high-traffic area of the home, it may be bumped into often, or brushed up against, causing wear and tear. Considering the three main factors of how long a piece of furniture will last, the customer can control the usage of his or her furniture and the placement of his or her furniture in the home. However, the quality of the furniture cannot be controlled by the customer. Therefore, it is important that the customer be well-educated in what to look for in a quality piece of furniture. At Lytton’s Furniture, providing quality products is vital to our business. It is our way of taking care of the one factor that is out of the customer’s hands and increasing the chances of that customer having furniture that lasts for a long time.

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Home Furnishings

Jolene Holdaway

2010-02-01 08:42:00

Question: Can you give me some ideas on giving a fresh new look to any given room on a limited budget?

Answer: A word that is used so much today in decorating is redesign. This is a wonderful way for people to get a great new look without spending any or very little money. Start with repositioning of your furniture, sometimes even removing some pieces from the room and taking the artwork down, even your clocks and mirrors. Rearranging these pieces makes a huge difference in appearance of the room. If you have silk flower arrangements, take the stems out of the vases and give them a bath in a tub with mild detergent, then let them air dry. Place these back in a different mix and you have fresh looking arrangements. Window treatments are another way of waking up your room. Take the window coverings off and polish those windows until they shine. If you decide to put the curtains back up, look for a way to reconfigure the way they were. These are just a few of many ideas to give you that fresh new look you’re looking for.

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Home Furnishings

Jolene Holdaway

2010-01-01 15:32:00

Question: I have been given the “opportunity” to start the New Year off with a new look for our dining room, but it’s not that big of an “opportunity”. Can you please help with some suggestions?

Answer: Sure there’s nothing wrong having a New Year’s resolution that involves a new look for your home, in fact I like the idea of starting the New Year off with a fresh new dining room or any other room as far as that goes. If I could there are a few things you need to know before going out and buying dining room furniture. In my opinion a good dining experience depends on three things: (a) Delectable food to tickle the palate, (b) Good company of friends and loved ones, and most importantly (c) Good dining furniture for an enjoyable eating experience. Dining table and chairs constitute a vital link between a good dining experience and an ordinary one. If you are comfortable sitting on the furniture, even ordinary food can taste good and a lonesome dining event could feel like a full-fledged party! So when shopping for dining furniture you should consider two things: (a) The furniture should be comfortable (b) It should look sufficiently decorative and consistent with your overall scheme of things as far as room furnishing is concerned. The first thing before you set your foot towards the furniture store is to gather enough knowledge about the kind of furniture that would be suitable for your specific requirements. For example, if the dining room is very small or a makeshift one, you may consider furniture that’s either made of plastic or a very light wood. This is because these kinds of table and chairs are easier to maneuver in a tight place. But if you are lucky and have a dedicated spacious dining room at your disposal, you have a wide variety to choose from. The wide variety of material to choose from and plethora of designs make things comfortable for the shoppers. While we are at it, you may consider dining chairs and tables made of Amish Furniture. Amish made furniture makes for an imperial outlook and sets you apart in your peer group. The only thing before buying Amish dining furniture is to make sure that you are dealing with wholesale Amish furniture dealers to avoid buying cheap fakes. Needless to say, you must have dimensions of the available space with you before planning to buy dining furniture, or for that matter, any piece of furniture item for your dream home. Spontaneous buying decisions should be avoided while buying furniture primarily due to the sole factor of lack of availability of dimensions of available space. The dimensions of chairs and table are equally important before you buy dining furniture. After all, they should be comfortable to dine on! As a yardstick, avoid chairs that are narrower than 17 inches and allow a minimum of 12 inches between the top of the seat and the top of the table. The ideal height of dining tables should be between 28-31 inches. Decide upon upholstery that is easy to clean off dust and stains. Leather fabric or commercial fabrics are ideal for easy care. A combination of man-made fibers with natural fibers lends a very good Therefore, you need to know few things before buying dining furniture enhance your knowledge and learn some tips to buy dining furniture in this article. This makes your shopping for dining furniture an onerous task where you have to ensure two things: (a) the furniture should be comfortable, and (b) it should look sufficiently decorative and consistent with your overall scheme of things as far as room furnishing is concerned. In this article, we will provide some useful tips for the buyers so that when you go out to purchase dining furniture, you come back with a prized possession! Finally, use due diligence when buying dining furniture. Sit on the chairs and apply little pressure to check the strength of joints. Thoroughly check the table and chairs for any protruding nail or piece of wood or metal.

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Home Furnishings

Scott Francis

2010-01-01 15:32:00

Question: We are not interested in selling our home at present, but some day we will. We have watched many others when they do this and it seems as though they always do it AFTER they decide to sell. The expense seems huge and it is done quickly. We would like to plan an eventual sale long before we’re ready. Most people work on “curb appeal” and try to improve the value from the outside. Few talk about how to increase the value of one’s home from the inside. Do you have any tips?

Answer: Yes. Your prudence will serve you well. The home is often the biggest investment people will have in their lives. You are right. All too often, doing the things necessary to protect, improve and enhance this value are left unattended until they are ready to sell. A home should be like a business. One should do the things to “groom” a business for sale from the first day that business begins to operate. So too should be the case for one’s home. The value of a home comes down to how much money someone else is willing to pay to buy it. An appraisal value is based on comparing your home to other similar homes in the same area. The person performing the appraisal must also rate the condition of the property, considering any upgrades or additions. While the appraisal process tends to be rather subjective, there are some things you can do to enhance a home’s appeal and increase its value from the inside, on an ongoing basis. Here are some of those things: 1. Remove any clutter in the home and put high-wattage bulbs in lamps and ceiling lights. 2. Store collectibles or personal items you really do not need somewhere else. You want your house to look well lit, clean and organized. 3. Consider hiring a cleaning service to add sparkle and shine. A cleaning service will generally spot things needing attended to long before the owner will. 4. Make improvements to the main living space, not in the basement. While having added space in the basement may be a positive perk, people are usually much more interested in the condition of the rooms where they will do most of their daily living. 5. Repaint walls a neutral color for a fresh, clean look. 6. Add crown molding around the living room ceiling for a more sophisticated appeal. 7. Update the kitchen with new energy-saving appliances and plumbing fixtures. Although replacing old kitchen cabinets can be expensive, according to a joint report by Remodeling and Realtor Magazines, even a modest kitchen remodel can increase the value of your home substantially. If new, wood kitchen cabinets are more than your budget can handle, apply a fresh coat of paint and install modern, decorative cabinet hardware. 8. Install a water filtration system in the kitchen. The improvement is inexpensive, but it’s an amenity that most people are bound to appreciate. Mount decorative ceiling fans in rooms that get high visibility. 9. Remodel the bathroom with a focus on making it more functional. The quality of the bathroom fixtures can make all the difference. 10. Replace dirty or worn carpeting. New carpet can revitalize the look of your home at an affordable cost. 11. Increase the value of your property by installing a home security system. The price tag is reasonable, and the addition will always be a big selling point, especially if your home is located in an urban area. 12. Invest in quality furnishings. There are several reasons for this. First, quality furnishings will keep you looking at your home from the inside, from the perspective of the most discriminating buyer. They will cause you to see things differently…things that might need attention…modifications and improvements that you can make that will compliment the overall look and feel of your home. Second, you will be ready to show your home on a moment’s notice, as you already have in place…what you would want...if you were going to sell. Third, while you may want to take your furnishings with you, quite often you will get more than what you paid for them by leaving them and negotiating the price to include them. Lastly, you will enjoy your home more with quality furnishings. Furnishing should be to a home what good bookkeeping records are to a business. You can run a business under the old system of ledger books and old accounting practices. Or, you can run a business with the newest software, with all of the entries correct, with reconciling points, in a very organized reporting form, complete with charts, graphs and the ability to pull history from any area. Someone looking to buy a business with the latter in place will pay much more.

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Home Furnishings

Scott Francis

2009-12-01 08:24:00

Question: We just purchased a new home; can you provide some tips on new furnishings?

Answer: If there’s a bright side to a down economy, it’s that those who are looking for a new home are in a “buyer’s market” right now. Good or bad, home prices are at record levels and investing in real estate is still a good strategy for creating long-term wealth. But buying a home is only part of the cost of home ownership. In fact, the average homeowner spends nearly $9,000 to furnish their new home, nearly double what others spend. More than three-fourths of this is spent on furniture and changes to the property, such as paint and carpeting. The rest is spent on new appliances. Of course, in a down economy, getting the most for your money – whether you’re buying your first home or moving from one home to another – is an important strategy as well. Following are some helpful tips to help you budget smartly: Decide what you actually need. It’s easy to go nuts when furnishing a new home. But buying furniture that fits your lifestyle is essential. Otherwise, that baby crib you picked up at a clearance sale wasn’t really such a deal, since it’s going to just take up space for a few years in your home. Take an inventory of the items you use most and invest in those items – a good sofa, a comfortable bed, a dining room set and a big screen television. Then fill in later as your budget allows and you see what you actually need. Think Quality and Value. Furniture needs to hold up to the rigors of daily use. Leather is a durable, long lasting fabric choice, but it’s not a good choice if you have pets that could scratch the leather. Choose furnishings for their ability to last a long time, rather than choosing the cheapest pieces that will fall apart or fabrics that will wear quickly. Start slowly. You don’t need to fill your new home to the rafters with furniture. Sometimes less is more. Add the basics, and then live in the home for a while. It will tell you what you need, whether it’s end tables because you don’t have a place to set your drink or more seating to accommodate family and friends in a grouping that promotes conversation. Set a budget and stick with it. This is a good time to buy furniture. Prices are down and retailers want to deal. But don’t stray from the budget you set. Find a retailer that can show you the features and benefits of their products, and is willing to help you with your design, and willing to work within your budget. Choose a theme. One of the best ways to get the most for your money is to buy a singular style for all the rooms in your home. That way you can mix and match pieces to create fresh, new looks. Modern furniture is particularly good for this, since the furniture has a unified theme, but the individual pieces can all look very different.

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Home Furnishings

Scott Francis

2009-11-01 15:55:00

Question: I wonder how many people there are like me who really do not understand the different types of furniture. Can you provide some information about these and a bit about their history?

Answer: What a great question! I did some research and have found a wonderful site that provides lots of information, www.furniturefromhome.com. Here are a few things that may assist. For the first part of the answer, see last month’s issue. Last month we talked about furniture styles throughout history. Here are some of today’s furniture styles: Traditional Furniture Traditional is the most formal of furniture styles today. Rich, elegant and refined, traditional furnishings incorporate rich fabrics with darker furniture woods like mahogany and cherry. Traditional style gets its influences from some of the great eras in furniture history, including Victorian, Queen Anne and Chippendale and may incorporate design elements from different American and English historical eras. Casual Furniture Today’s casual styles are a reflection of the more laid-back, less formal lifestyle that many Americans embrace today. Casual furniture styles include overstuffed sofas constructed of a variety of lush, easy-to-clean fabric covers. A variety of furniture woods are used, including maple, oak and pine, often with matte finishes. Colors are often neutral or earth-toned. Casual décor is cozy, comfortable and warm as well as designed for easy and unpretentious living. Casual furniture styles may be further classified into Country Casual, Casual Contemporary, and Casual Traditional categories. Country Furniture Home and hearth, that’s what Country furniture is all about. Country gets its influences from American, European and even Mexican furniture. Country style is versatile - it may be rustic, like the décor of a log cabin, homey like a lakeside cottage, or it may use softer designs like those of America’s first settlers where ruffled skirts were popular on upholstered pieces. Most frequently used furniture woods include pine, oak, maple and ash. Finishes may be intentionally distressed to add “character” or they may be painted; fabrics can run the gamut from soft denim, flowery chintz or linen and often include gingham checks or subtle plaids. Décor accessories may also evoke comfort, like oval braided rugs over hardwood stained or painted floors, needlework and beautiful quilts or antique bottles and American flags. Country style may also be labeled as Country Casual, although as a rule, Country style is inherently casual. Contemporary Furniture With Contemporary style, function is the primary focus. Designs are typically simple, without much ornamentation, sleek and streamlined. The simpler lines of the Shaker, Mission and Scandinavian may be incorporated into the furniture. The look is modern, fabrics may be bright and bold without much patterning. Contemporary furniture is usually mated with larger accessories and artwork to create a crisp, uncomplicated interior décor. Additional classifications of this style include Casual Contemporary and Modern Contemporary. Modern Furniture Sharp and linear, clean and crisp, the Modern style goes one or more steps beyond Contemporary and may even include retro or Art Deco elements. Wood, chrome, steel and glass may all play a role in the decor of the Modern home. Upholstery fabrics are mostly simple but may be textured or tightly woven. Splashes of bold color work or blacks and grays work well with the Modern style, as does the timeless look of leather. Mixed Furniture Styles Not all of today’s furniture or home décor fits neatly into one style category. A hybrid of mixed styles will often grace American homes to meet the wide variety of consumer style preferences. Casual Contemporary Contemporary style with a casual flair can make for a comfortable home in which the furnishings are functional and relaxed, yet up to date in appearance. Furniture wood and finishes may be light like maple or birch, mid-range in Oak, or darkly stained in coffee or espresso shades. The Arts and Craft influence of Mission furniture, leather or microfiber-covered sofas and chairs all fit in the Casual Contemporary home. Casual Traditional A blend of Casual and Traditional styles in the home may feature handsomely carved but comfortable furniture for a lived-in look with touches of style elegance. Fabrics may be softly neutral but with a trim, tailored look. Many of today’s furniture for use in a home theater, like handsome leather recliners and sofas, along with solid wood entertainment centers work well with the Casual Traditional style. Eclectic Interiors that mix compatible or complementary styles in order to achieve a unique and individual look are said to be Eclectic – in that they strive to use the best of what may be several styles. Eclectic décor often includes collectors’ items from across the globe or unique works of art and pottery. Furniture woods and upholstery fabrics may run the full range of available choices, textures and colors. In fact, color is often used to create harmony in the design of a room.

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Home Furnishings

Scott Francis

2009-10-01 09:07:00

Question: I wonder how many people there are like me who really do not understand the different types of furniture. Can you provide some information about these and a bit about their history?

Answer: What a great question! I did some research and have found a wonderful site that provides lots of information, www.furniturefromhome.com. Here are a few things that may assist. Furniture Styles Throughout History Skilled craftsmen have been constructing furniture since the Stone Age. Although actual pieces of furniture have not survived that long, evidence that furniture was in use is provided by surviving ancient artworks in pottery and frescos. The oldest known actual piece of furniture may date as far back as 3,000 BC. Early Egyptian furniture was placed in tombs and some of it has been recovered as it was preserved in a sealed environment. Additionally, some early Egyptian pieces have been recreated based on archaeological findings. Greek, Roman and Egyptian Influences The Greek love of beauty and art extended to furniture design, which evolved from ancient Egyptian furniture and simple pieces of Greek furniture were considered works of art in many Greek households. The main items of Roman furniture found in the best houses were couches or beds (lectus), chairs and stools, tables and lamps. Since Romans treasured open space, the main focal points in Roman décor were centered on artworks and fountains used prominently in the home. Greek, Roman and Egyptian decor was the inspiration for the neoclassical furniture styles popular in Europe and America in the 18th and 19th centuries. English and European Influences on American Furniture American furniture styles were greatly influenced by the English as well as by the European immigrants who settled here. Over the past 400 years or so, styles of American furniture evolved through a number of important periods and influential eras. While it would be impractical to include all of the influences on American furniture styles and construction, an abridged summary is provided here in the hope that it may help give you a better idea of how furniture styles have evolved and useful information on the characteristics of certain styles that continue to be mimicked and admired today. • Jacobean (1600-1690) – Much of American furniture in its early days was based on this medieval English style of furniture. Sturdy furniture with rather straight lines, dark finishes and ornate carvings are characteristic of Jacobean styles. • Early American (1640-1700) – Based largely on English, French, Scandinavian and Spanish styles, Early American furniture in this period was built from readily available local furniture woods and built more for rugged comfort than refined elegance. • William and Mary (1690-1725) – A tribute to royals William and Mary of England, furniture crafted in this style used ornately turned legs with a ball or Spanish foot at the end of each leg, as well as caned seats and beautiful Oriental lacquers. William and Mary styles later influenced Colonial furniture. • Queen Anne (1700-1755) – Queen Anne styles are based on William and Mary period furniture with some refinements. Queen Anne furniture is moderately proportioned, often constructed from Walnut, and is characterized by a variety of feet, including claw and ball, scroll, spade and square feet, as well as wing back and fiddle-back chairs. Over time, the Queen Anne period evolved from the very ornate and decorative, appealing to the elite society, to refined and comfortable, yet delicate: equally appealing to a much broader base of society. Georgian furniture (1714-1760) also appeared during this time, and is considered a more ornate version of the Queen Anne style. • Colonial (1700-1780) – American Colonial furniture styles were influenced by some of the style characteristics of the William and Mary and Queen Anne periods. During the mid to latter part of the Colonial era, designs were also influenced by the strength and simplicity of country made furniture designs by Thomas Chippendale (1718-1779) of England. In the United States, the Chippendale style was a more elaborate version of Queen Anne style with cabriole legs, ball-and-claw feet, and broken pediment scroll tops on taller pieces. • Georgian (1714-1760) – Coinciding with the reign of Kings George I and George II of England from 1714-1760, in terms of furniture, works from this period can be described as more ornate versions of Queen Anne furniture, with heaver proportions, elaborate carvings and gilding. • Federal (1780-1820) – It was during the Federal era, around the birth of an independent America, when some of the most beautiful and elegant antique furniture was produced. Federal era furniture in America was often constructed of cherry and sometimes red-stained walnut, unlike British Federal furniture, which was often mahogany. Many American Federal furniture works incorporated symbols of the new-found American freedom, like eagles and stars. Some of the important, influential furniture designers of this period included Duncan Phyfe, John Shaw, John Dolan and Samuel McIntire. The styles of English designers Thomas Sheraton and George Hepplewhite also influenced American Federal design. Outstanding examples of American Federal furniture have been preserved and are on display in museums and historic homes in many of the historic districts around the nation’s capital, such as Georgetown, Alexandria, and Rosslyn, Virginia. • Shaker (1820-1860) – Shaker furniture represents a substantial contribution of the utilitarian lifestyle of the religious group, the United Society of Believers. Living in self-contained communities, Shaker craftsmen were responsible for creating “beauty through utility”. Shaker furniture was often constructed from maple, and sometimes cherry, birch, and walnut: furniture woods that were readily available within their communities. Shaker chairs, including side chairs used at meetings, and rocking chairs for the elderly, sewing rockers for Shaker women, made without arms to allow access to the sewing basket, are all important contributions to American furniture design. Shaker communities continue to exist today, where furniture craftsmen continue to construct beautifully practical, handmade furniture pieces in small numbers, with careful attention to detail. Shaker style is characterized by straight tapered legs (tilted legs on chairs, with ball and socket construction) and mushroom shaped wooden knobs. • Victorian (1840-1910) – Extending for a period of 70 years during the reign of Queen Victoria, the Victorian era in England saw noted changes from its early days to late Victorian style. During its early years, no single style emerged as dominant. Instead, furniture was styled around influences from earlier periods, including Gothic, Tudor, Elizabethan, Renaissance, English Rococo, and Neo Classical. Ornamentation was extensive, and, in the opinion of some, a bit overdone. Mahogany and rosewood were often used, and, to a lesser extent, oak in furniture designed for the masses. Iron and paper maches were also used in some pieces. During the latter part of the Victorian era, the Arts and Crafts and the Aesthetic or Art Furniture movement were born. A number of antique styles were also revived. Late Victorian furniture was known for its straight lines and solid woods with dark stains and less upholstery than earlier Victorian pieces. Painted decorations replaced carvings. The Victorian period was the first furniture style to be mass produced. • Arts and Craft (1880-1910) – Furniture from the Arts and Craft movement (also referred to as Mission style) is characterized by simple utilitarian design, and construction, just as Shaker design was centered on utility. William Morris and John Ruskin inspired the movement, which was in part meant to restore the craft of handmade furniture. Victorian Arts and Crafts style furniture in England was handmade in a country or farmhouse style and often looked good, but in some cases, was uncomfortable for sitting. No furniture style guide would be complete without mentioning at least a few other styles. For example, Pennsylvania Dutch style is a reflection of the Pennsylvania Dutch way of life - simple, utilitarian and focused on quality craftsmanship. It is characterized by colorful hand painted motifs, massive cupboards of walnut or cherry, sometimes also painted with fruit or floral decorations. Like the Shakers, Amish, Mennonite and Pennsylvania Dutch communities still exist today and the furnishings, rugs, quilts and other products they produce have retained their exceptional quality craftsmanship and beauty. Scandinavian Contemporary style originated from Danish and Swedish craftsmen. It emphasizes utility (function over form) with straight or sometimes gently curving lines and little to no ornamentation. We will be back next month with examples of today’s furniture styles and mixed furniture styles.

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Home Furnishings

Scott Francis

2009-09-01 14:47:00

Question: I would like to have information on the different woods used in furniture and what to look for when one is purchasing the same. Can you help me?

Answer: I would love to. It will take more space than what they will allow me in just this issue, but that is fine. Over the next few issues, I will try to provide as much information as I can. In this first article, I will just touch on a few items that should be of interest to you. Nothing looks better than natural wood furniture! Wood furniture is a natural product of beauty and enhances any decor theme you have going. Plus it lasts for a long time if it is a quality piece. A nicely constructed furniture collection will be heirlooms for generations in your family. Unless it’s really ugly and then no one will want it! First, let’s talk about levels of quality. Wood furniture comes in a wide variety of qualities to meet different budgets and needs. Perhaps one of the most affordable types of wood furniture is RTA or “ready to assemble” furniture. It usually comes flat packed and you put it together yourself. It tends to be a very cost effective way to get furnished. Most typical furniture you see is a combination of real wood veneers and solid woods. It does not have to be solid to be of excellent quality, in fact solid wood can have problems with cracking and splitting as weather conditions like humidity can cause solid woods to expand and contract. Most very high end and expensive furniture is NOT 100% solid, but a mix of excellent quality veneers to get great wood patterns and finishes. Just a word or two on these wood finishes. Wood finishes are simple protective covers over stains of color. Others utilize extensive finishing techniques to imitate weathered and worn looks. Many of today’s looks also incorporate painted finishes. Then there is drawer construction. The best quality drawer construction is a technique called “dove tail” type construction where the wood is woven like interlocked fingers to provide excellent strength and durability over time. Other construction techniques are usually just fine, but dove tail is the best. Have you ever heard of “dust proofing?” Let me tell you about it. Dust proofing on a dresser or night stand means that there is a piece of wood or other material between the different levels of drawers on the case piece. This prevents dust from wood on wood type drawer glides from landing in the drawer underneath. It also prevents socks from going over the back of the drawer and landing in the drawer below it. Perhaps one of the best benefits of this feature is the overall structural integrity and solidness it results in for case pieces. And finally, a bit about types of wood. Typical wood species used in furniture, bedroom furniture, office furniture and home office furniture are Oak, Cherry, Pine and Maple. But the span of species so vast it’s impossible to list them all. Wood species vary in hardness and wood grains as does the price of furniture constructed with exotic types like Mahogany and Tiger Maple. In future articles, we will discuss some of these topics and others in more detail. Thanks again for the question.

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Home Furnishings

Jason Klassen

2008-07-01 15:11:00

Question: I have an old desk. I think that the look is slightly outdated, but it seems like a well-built piece of furniture and I would hate to throw it out. What should I do with it?

Answer: That is a good question and it can be applied to many older things, but I will limit my answer to furniture, wood or otherwise. To figure out if this would be a good piece to recondition and bring up to date we start by asking you a few questions. 1) Is the piece of well-built construction? Does it contain quite a bit of solid wood? Are there some craftsman-type qualities like book-matched veneers, dovetail drawers, or maybe solid brass hardware? 2) Has it been in the family for quite a while, or has some special sentimental value? 3) Does this piece still fit with your current house style, or personal style preference? If the answer to these questions is “yes” then we have something that makes the cut. Much can be done to a wooden or upholstered piece of furniture that allows some style changes. For wooden furniture one can change the color of the wood and the position or type of hardware. You can also change the lines of a piece by reshaping corners, feet or trim. Applicays can be applied and glazes added. For upholstered furniture, you would obviously change the fabric, but you can also reshape the frame, add or subtract foam and stuffing in certain areas to change the line, add an ottoman, or change a reclining piece into a fixed piece. Upholstered furniture that is older is almost without question built better than the pieces today. This would be especially true for sofas that can be purchased for under $1000.00. In addition to changing style, a quality recondition can add durability to a piece of furniture. For example, new fabrics could contain a stain guard, or clear wood finishes could allow for water cleanup. In many cases this type of service allows a blending of styles that brings about a marriage of classic looks and modern performance. Not to mention that the piece stays out of the landfill. So, take a look at your items, answer the questions above and make a determination for yourself. But as I look around my house, I find that not much of my furniture has been bought new, nor would I trade my pieces for something new if given the chance.

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Home Furnishings

Jason Klassen

2008-06-01 13:45:00

Question: My kitchen is really looking bad. What are my options for helping it look better without all the mess of total remodeling?

Answer: There are four options for you, five if you would include a total remodel. I will list them for you and try to explain the benefits and the drawbacks of each. The 1st option would be a clean-up / touch-up type of service. This is where one would go over all the cabinets, clean them where needed, then apply touch-up color where needed followed by some clear finish in the touched-up areas. This would be the least expensive option that would require the least amount of disturbance to your daily life. Most times repairs of this nature could be done in an afternoon. Advantages: Price and no disruption. The drawbacks of this service are that it does not last for long periods of time, and cannot correct more major damage. The 2nd option would be a recoat. This is where the cabinets are cleaned, prepped, touched up where needed and then they have a new clear coat shot over the entire surface. This can bring quite a bit of new life to some older cabinets, but the current finish must be in good shape. In some cases the color can be darkened for a color change appearance with this option. Advantages: Brings fresh life to a kitchen where the look is still desired, faster turn around than other methods. The drawbacks are that the cabinet style does not change, and the kitchen down time is more extensive than option one. The 3rd option is similar to the 2nd except that the cabinets would be stripped of the old finish and color before a new color and finish is applied. This would be the standard strip and refinish method most think of when talking about such services. With this service one can change the color, remove finishes that are worn out totally, and add in new cabinets to blend in with the old ones. The advantages of such a service are the flexibility of color, and the fact that you get a totally new finish starting from the wood up. The drawbacks are price and kitchen down time. The 4th option would be a service called refacing. This is where the old doors and drawers are removed and not reused. New doors and drawers are selected from a cabinet manufacturer. They are applied to the old cabinet boxes along with new wood veneer face frame materials that match the new doors and drawer fronts. One can also add different moldings, and styling accents in the same wood. The advantages of this service are that your kitchen is not out of service for long periods of time, you get to change the style totally, and this costs less than the full out remodel project. The drawbacks to this service are that you build on the current cabinet box, so not all kitchens work to have this done, and one still cannot change the kitchen layout significantly. The short story is that each of these options has their place in fixing up your kitchen; it depends on the problems in need of correction and the budget of the project. But one of these four options should solve your issues. It’s important to remember that the kitchen is one of those rooms in your home that can bring the greatest return on your investment, so dollars spent here will almost always be returned on the sale of the home.

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Home Furnishings

Jason Klassen

2008-05-01 13:20:00

Question: How do I care for the wood pieces of furniture in my home?

Answer: This is a question that I get quite often. It mostly centers around the idea of keeping the wood from “drying out”. Let’s start off by saying that wood furniture does not dry out in the sense that it causes the cracks and loose joints to appear, veneers to lift, or the finish to crack. This is mostly the cause of drastic changes in humidity or exposure to sunlight over time. Changes in humidity cause the wood to shrink or swell as the wood either absorbs water or releases water as it reaches equilibrium with the surrounding climate. Exposure to direct sunlight causes colors to fade, and finishes to crack and craze. To combat these two conditions it is wise to try and control the relative humidity, keeping it within 40% to 60%. This range will keep wood movement to a minimum. Also keep blinds on the windows with sun exposure, tint those windows with a UV tint, or cover pieces when not in use. In the past, clear finishes were limited to varnish, shellac, or lacquer. These types of finishes were not as durable as the more modern types of finishes that we have now. Even though quite a lot of furniture manufacturers still use lacquer, the more modern finishes such as polyurethane, catalyzed lacquer, catalyzed varnish and water based finishes are quite a bit more worry-free. With that in mind, regular dusting and cleaning can be done with a simple damp cloth followed with a dry cloth, or a furniture polish sprayed on the dust rag with just enough to trap dust and not leave the polish on the surface of the wood. I recommend that when selecting a polish to pick one that does not have a lot of silicone in it. Silicone tends to build up on a finish over time, leaving behind a greasy film that fingerprints easily and looks oily. It also is a contaminate for the finishing process so if one ever has work done on that piece, the professional will need to overcome the silicone to do the job correctly. I would generally recommend an emulsion polish. This is one that usually is milky white in color when first applied. This has a good blend of cleaning and dust catching properties, plus it usually does not have silicone as an ingredient and thus does not leave behind contamination. If one has an older piece of furniture, applying a paste wax can help the older finish. This type of maintenance product is the most permanent. It is also the hardest to apply because of the extra effort required to remove the wax that is not needed. But, it also can have dramatic effects in bringing back shine and hiding blemishes. If a paste wax is applied, then little to no polish should be used on that piece, as a polish will tend to remove a paste wax from the wood surface. The last thing is to make sure that you get a good cloth to use only for furniture care. Micro-fiber is a really great choice for this. Call your furniture professional if you have further questions about care of your wooden furniture.

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Home Furnishings

Jason Klassen

2008-04-01 12:10:00

Question: If I refinish my antique secretary desk, will it decrease its value?

Answer: This is a very good question, and I will try to give you a concise answer. It depends. I would first want to ask some specific questions about the piece: is the piece in unmolested original condition? Is this piece of museum quality? What will be its use? What is the origin? Is it intended for resale? Popular TV shows and antique dealers have propagated the myth that repairs and finish work decrease the value for any older piece of furniture. While this may be true of a high-quality piece that is truly in its original condition, most furniture isn’t of significant value to begin with. Moreover, most pieces have already had some structural or refinish work along the way. In these cases, additional work of good quality can actually enhance the value of the piece. When we look at the furniture’s use, we want to know if the piece is to be functional or decorative. If the furniture is required to handle a person’s weight, to hold objects, or to sustain frequent movement of hinges and pivot points, then a repair would be worthwhile. If the furniture is intended to be set in a corner to look good, then repairs or finish work may not be necessary. Is the furniture of European or American origin? Collectors of early American furniture tend to prefer things in original condition, even if it’s less than perfect. Collectors of European furniture don’t generally consider the value of a piece to be diminished by a good quality repair or refinish. If your piece of furniture is intended for resale, it is important to consider how the monetary value would be affected by repairs or finish work. However, if this is a meaningful piece of furniture to you, or one that you want to eventually hand down to the next generation, then it makes sense to keep it in good shape. The value of the piece will be realized in its use and enjoyment over the years. In conclusion, if you had two pieces of furniture that were the same, except that one was in great original condition and the other had been repaired and/or refinished, then the first one would be worth more to a collector. But most of us don’t own a piece like this. So, look at your antiques as simply needing maintenance. Keep them in good shape, love the way they look, and appreciate the old growth wood and craftsmanship of days gone by. Don’t be scared of some high quality repairs or finish work. It will likely increase the value over the long term.

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Home Furnishings

Jolene Holdaway

1969-12-31 18:00:00

Question: What can a person expect or 2010 in the way of home decoration?

Answer: For décor in 2010 you could see the following: • Adventurous design - layering of fabrics, textures accessories, bold patterns, and pattern mixing are the finishing touches that completes any room. • Natural inspired designs - green products, the colors of sand, sea, sky and trees, plus natural materials like stone, wood, glass, and animal prints. • Eclectic style – edgy, funky, ethnic handcrafted originals, and lots of color and patterns • Dramatic style – black & white, mirrors, crystal and metallic’s. • Vintage/Nostalgic style – combining period pieces with contemporary and transitional pieces. When considering the redecorating of your home, it maybe more cost effective to hire an interior designer to help you with a plan before you make a costly mistake. A good designer will keep your budget in mind by helping you integrate new pieces with what you already own and treasure. General Tips There are a few universal ideas which help improve the overall look of every home. Some of the favorite options include internal landscaping with a variety of botanical plants that do very well indoors or those who do not have a green thumb can choose from permanent botanical plants. People hate a boring and dull atmosphere at home. Attractive furnishing matched with the color scheme of our home can help in avoiding such situations. Using wall paintings or statues made of marble or Plaster of Paris is also an ideal way to provide different look to modern home. A wall painting of rising sun or natural sceneries in the bedroom (just in front of the bed) will provide freshness everyday when you get up. Remember, people want extreme comfort (comfort for the body as well as the eyes) in their bedroom. Implementing a light color scheme in bedroom is the best option. Apart from that, there are varieties of ideal bedroom furniture options that people can choose.

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Home Furnishings

Shellie Blevens

1969-12-31 18:00:00

Answer: Well basically it has to do with illusion. You can’t make the room bigger, but there are things that can be done to create the illusion that the room is bigger. Color plays a big role. Lighter colors usually will make a room look larger than darker. If the trim is painted, it is best to paint it either white or a lighter shade than the wall because of basic perspective 3-D rules. Darker colors recede in space while lighter colors appear to move forward. So if the walls are slightly darker than the trim they will appear to further away, thus making the room appear to be larger. Ceiling paint should be white as well as any cove molding that is painted along the ceiling line. Another area color can help is in the furnishing and fabrics. A Monochromatic color scheme will give a room the illusion of a bigger space. Using the same color in lighter and darker tones will give a uniform look to the room making it flow without disturbance. Flooring should be kept light and solid in design. Patterns and dark colors will make the room look smaller because it will compete for attention, while light neutral floors will seem to disappear. One of the most important things that will make a room look larger is to de-clutter it. Clear out small nick knacks to make the room feel more open. Limit multiple items on counters and tables. Use one or two distinctive pieces verses several small items. The same goes for walls, one large picture will make the room look larger than a group of small ones. Lighting can increase the rooms feeling of space. A Torchiere light will bounce light off the ceiling and bounce it back down to the room, making the eye move around the room rather than focusing on one area. Put the most visual element in the room in the farthest corner away from the entrance, so your eye will travel across the room as entering it. This will make the room feel more spacious. Angle some of the furniture because you look for the longest line in the room and furniture at an angle will appear to be longer. Use a large floor or wall mirror to make a room look larger. This used to be a trick mobile homes did in bedroom by using mirrored closet doors, and it did work! However, there are more attractive mirror choices that can make the same illusion. If you are able to pick out furniture for the space, glass tables will make a room look more spacious than heavy dark pieces, and choose furniture that is all similar in scale. If you want seating that doesn’t over power the room, a love seat may work better than a full size couch. Use as few pieces of furniture as you are able and keep it to outside of the room, leaving the center of the room open. Doing one of these tips or a combination of them will help you to make that small room appear to be the large room of your dreams.