ImagineCozy

Lamps Can Warm up a Winter Day!

2012-01-07T12:02:00.004-07:00

It snowed at our house last night!

Finally it feels like winter.

So this morning I went around the house

turning on the lamps.

It really creates a warm inviting atmosphere---

So nice on a wintery day.

Today I have posted all kinds of different decor styles

and rooms, just so you can see that turning on a lamp

in any space makes it feel more inviting.

So...go ahead and turn on a lamp... you will FEEL Better!!

A Little Inspiration!

2012-01-05T22:55:00.004-07:00

bhg

As the new year is here and all of the holiday decor

is packed away it is always a wonderful time

to look at fresh inspiration.

A great opprotunity to look at your room with new eyes

and see what you like---

and be inspired to try a thing or two different.

These are just random photos of rooms and homes

that I like and thought I would share.

bhg

I guess I like chairs around the fireplace!!

I do sit next to mine almost everyday.

hgtv

What are you inspired by?

Decorating the Front Door for the Holidays

2011-12-09T09:52:00.001-07:00

I just had to do a little post with beautiful doors!

All of these photos are from

HGTV

I love wreathes--- and love to see them on doors for the holidays.

Aren't these so inviting...

When you decorate the front door

it is like saying come on in!

This RED door with the iron hardware is just darling!

Love the Green Ribbon here.

So maybe with this little bit of inspiration

you can figure out something

to add to your front door!

Freshen up the Kitchen with Fabric

2011-12-08T12:59:00.001-07:00

Fabric can add such life to a kitchen!

BEFORE

AFTER

We added some color to the windows, the fabric and pattern as well

as the color gives so much more interest and warmth to the kitchen.

BEFORE there was little that tied the space together.

AFTER

The runner on the table as well as the curtains become an

inspiration piece.

You can use those same colors to accessorize

the rest of the kitchen.

Try a little fabric in your Kitchen!!

Use a Rug... for Inspiration

2011-11-07T13:26:00.000-07:00

So today, lets talk about using an inspiration piece

to pull the room together.

This friend of mine was ready to freshen up

a number of rooms in her home.

She really liked the idea of bringing in some orange.

And knew she needed to purchase a few new pieces.

Her walls were recently painted a lovely gold and sage green.

so we wanted the color palette to have those colors.

I really thought a rug could be the perfect solution to pull it all off.

We found that perfect rug at Pottery Barn ...of course!

For over $1000.

We decided that we would keep looking----

and found THE inspiration piece

we were looking for at TJ Maxx-HomeGoods,

for $199.00 Can you believe it~!

It was a great shopping day.

It was warm and had golds and greens as well as the Orange

she wanted to add to the space.

It made for a great inspiration piece because it had

3 of the colors that we wanted to place around the room.

Here is the Living Room

BEFORE

AFTER

We picked up a couple of IKEA chairs to help lighten up the space,

as well as some new toss pillows---

You know how I love to add pillows!:)

BEFORE

AFTER

What a different feel the room has now

with the rug and the lighter chairs.

BEFORE

AFTER

We decided to make a little entry grouping.

It really worked well in that space.

See how well the cabinet goes with the colors in the room.

The floral pillow on the couch has just the

right colors and design to go with the rug.

And my friend picked it out herself.

Many times when I work with a client and they need

to purchase new items, I tell them to find something

that they really like and that has the colors

we are looking for.

There are other times when I do the shopping and get what

I think works. But most of the time the client shops for

thier own accessories--

it gives them a real feeling that the space it theirs,

because they picked out something that they were drawn too.

It also gives you such a great sense of ackomplishment

to know that you chose something that really worked.

Lamps behind the sofa looking out into the fall leaves---

(I LOVE Fall! Have I mentioned that before?)

I love putting a round table between two chairs,

and this one worked out great!

BEFORE

AFTER

We changed out the curtains. Using a gold color similar to the wall
softens the space and lightens it up.

I would prefer the rod to be hung just down from the ceiling,
because it pulls your eyes up and make the room feel taller.

My friend is waiting on her sweet husband to finish up the job.
I will post the before and after photos when it is done.
You will be amazed at how different it feels!

Notice the artwork on the wall also has some of the same colors

that we were pulling around the room.

So if you are wanting to create a new feel to a space

Using a Rug for the inspiration piece

may just work for you!

Sneek Peek... on 3 Room Redesigns

2011-11-01T15:00:00.000-06:00

This is the house of a good friend of mine.

Her house was ready for a good "facelift"!

Here is a sneek peek at what we did.

I will show you some quick before and afters

and in upcoming posts

I will give you all of the juicy details and more photos!

Living Room BEFORE

Living Room AFTER

Kitchen BEFORE

Kitchen AFTER

Family Room BEFORE

Family Room AFTER

It was quite the project and we had some really funny stories.

My good friend Connie does a blog and is a fantastic writer.

She will be doing a write up on the redesign

and I will be sure and give you all a link, so you can see

how it all went down from her perspective as well.

See you at the end of the week!

A Simple Entry--- in the Fall

2011-10-29T12:55:00.000-06:00

Okay my dear friends---I have to apologize for being away so long!

I have been doing a number of bigger design jobs

and we have had to wait for furniture and curtains and hardware

so I have just not posted.

Forgive me--- I will do better!!

This is the entry in a home that I have been working on.

This is the BEFORE.

Really it just had the table.

AFTER

This entry has a high ceiling and a beautiful chandelier,

so I wanted to do something in the right scale

to fill the space and pull your eyes upward.

It can be as simple as a couple of lamps and some artwork on the wall.

The lantern in the middle is placed in a wreath.

I will give you some close ups as soon as I get back up to the house

to take some additional after photos of other rooms.

Have a wonderful Fall and Halloween weekend!

When Redesigning a Bedroom--- Make the Bed the Focal Point of the Room

2011-09-28T11:15:00.003-06:00

The bed makes a wonderful focal point

when redesigning a bedroom.

BEFORE

The homeowner of this master bedroom,

was trying to give it a new look.

She had purchased new bedding

but it was not enough to give the room a change.

We just needed to rearrange a little

and add some interest with fabric!

AFTER

When you are redesigning a bedroom

you usually want the bed to be the focal point of the room.

So we moved the bed to the wall between the two windows.

Doesn't that create a very nice focal point?

See how the layering of pillows and bedding

really does make the bed stand out.

The coordinating curtains give the room some drama and elegance.

BEFORE

The bed was on the opposite wall

so when you entered you did not really see it.

AFTER

See how we created a nice balance on that wall across from the bed.

The homeowner purchased fabric and hemmed a coverlet

for the end of the bed as well as the curtain panels.

So simple... just hem the sides and the ends and hang with curtain rings.

It really makes a difference!

What a beautiful and relaxing retreat!

Take a look at your bedrooms---

What could you do to create more of a focal point?

An Office for Her

2011-09-14T21:01:00.000-06:00

Here are a few shots just to get you curious---

This homeowner moved into a new home and wanted to create

an office with her own style.

Do these accessories give you an idea of what she likes?

The room is not totally done, we are waiting on some chairs

and a larger set of shelves but for now this is what we created.

I had her go shopping and look for items that made her happy,

colors that she liked and that felt good to her.

As you can see she liked robin egg blue, birds, nests,

eggs, fresh greenery and twigs.

Here is the BEFORE

And the AFTER so far...

I will give you an update when it is all put together!

So remember when you are creating a space in your home---

1. Have things that you LOVE.

2. Have things that are USEFUL.

And of course have fun!

A Change of Style

2011-09-12T17:31:00.001-06:00

This beautiful bedroom now reflects the taste

of the woman of the house.

This client was new to the home, she married into family of 6

where her new husband had been a widower.

So, much of the style of the room was that of the

previous lady of the house.

BEFORE

There was a lot in the room and we needed to trim it down.

Notice the heavy armoir on the side wall.

AFTER

We moved the heavy piece and created a grouping on the wall.

It feels much more to scale and quite warm and inviting.

BEFORE

AFTER

We found out as we tried moving the armoir that it was in three pieces.

Which was perfect, because now we could take the drawer sections

and use them in the closet as a dresser.

BEFORE

AFTER

The art grouping on the wall with the lamp

even out the space and help to create a warm inviting atmosphere.

The newly married couple now have space

to hang some wedding photos.

Notice what a difference the curtains make.

Simple and clean decor.

BEFORE

A different view of the side of the room.

See how the mirrored piece was just to large for the space.

AFTER

The bookcase with the painting feels much better.

BEFORE

Notice the corner by the window.

The dresser that is there feels too tight for the space.

AFTER

See how the taller narrower cabinet works so much better.

Sooo... fun to see the transformation!

Arrange Your Furniture on an Angle

2011-08-24T11:49:00.002-06:00

We gave this living room a little shake up!

BEFORE

AFTER

We turned the couches on an angle and placed them close together

in a L pattern so you can have a nice conversation

without having someone walk between you.

BEFORE

AFTER

See how welcoming and inviting this arrangement feels.

We have divided the room up into different areas.

The back wall with the keyboard now feels like it has it's own space.

The two couches create a conversation area

as well as tv viewing.

BEFORE

AFTER

On this back wall we arranged a nice reading area

with a lamp and table.

It also works for veiwing the tv.

Notice how we added a lamp and some flowers on the table.

This is a quick easy way to accessorize a tabletop.

The red pillow in the chair is a nice way

to pull color around the room.

Overall, we created a warm inviting place

to visit, read a book or watch a movie!

Try placing some of your furniture on an angle

and see what you think.

You may be surprised!

Using an Inspiration Piece to Decorate a Living Room

2011-08-12T13:10:00.001-06:00

This Living Room had a fantastic rug

that we used for the inspiration in the room.

BEFORE

AFTER

When using an inspiration piece it is good to pull out around 3 colors.

We took some blues, rust and gold colors from the rug.

(This was before the painting arrived.)

See how adding the blue really made the space feel so much more comfortable.

BEFORE

There were some rust colored accessories on the mantle,

but it really needed something else.

AFTER

See how the painting has similar colors to those in the rug.

The bits of blue really pull it together nicely.

As you can see some of the room is done,

but the buffet in the back on the left was not yet completed.

AFTER

Here is how we tied it in to the rest of the room.

See how we added a touch of blue,

a lamp and some natural balls.

It is so much more inviting now!

Using pillows is a great way to tie in the color and pattern.

See how one pillow is the same pattern as the chairs and the other has rust, gold and blue.

It really creates a pulled together feel in the entire room.

Decorating using the Right Scale

2011-07-20T21:17:00.003-06:00

Here is a quick little before and after.

Just want you to see how simple it can be to fill a space

when using the right design principles.

BEFORE

The space above this buffet is quite tall and

needs something in the right scale to make it feel complete.

AFTER

See how this is a simple solution.

The mirror is large enough to balance out

the piece of furniture and is the right size for

the space on the wall.

By hanging it vertically it is taller as well as narrow enough

to come in about 6 inches on each side of the buffet.

When you look at the whole grouping,
the height of the mirror, the lamp and the glass bowl
are three different heights.

This is a simple way to create a unit that works!

Here is a little more of the room...

I will show you the rest soon.

Look what a consult can do!

2011-07-18T18:16:00.006-06:00

This room makeover was done all by

the homeowner---herself!

She hired me to come and do a consultation,

we walked throughout the house and talked about

what she could do to make the family room more inviting.

After an hour and a half I left.

Some months later she called and said I am DONE!

Come and take the after shots.

Here is the entry BEFORE

The end table was just too short to fill the space.

AFTER

We found this dresser down in her storage room

(it was previously white).

This space needed something taller so that the scale would feel right.

See how a coat of paint, a little larger mirror and a lamp

magically changed this space.

Wow! the paint on the wall made such a difference,

the molding and the door really stand out now.

It also warms up everything---so much more inviting.

BEFORE

Notice the mirror propped above the fireplace,

it was really not reflecting anything interesting,

mostly just the ceiling.

This is the mirror that is now in the entry.

It adds light and movement to that space.

I really like mirrors in the entryway.

AFTER

She painted the wall a light beige and added the accent brown.

The homeowner also added new furniture which

really does update the family room.

Notice how we flanked the two sofas on either side of the fireplace.

This helps to create a nice focal point,

and a great conversation area.

BEFORE

Here she had a number of smaller items on the mantle

as well as hanging on the wall.

AFTER

Look at how much better it feels to take a collection of items

and place them together in a group---the box shelves on the left

and the three framed photos on the right.

The fabric on the chair is repeated

with a couple of toss pillows on the couch.

See the touches of red throughout the room.

It gives a pop of life to the space.

Nice simple focal point.

It is always important to have items in the room that you love.

The painting was important to her,

as well as the quilted wall hanging that her mother made

specifically for the new colors in the room.

This makes the room yours.

Okay, I want to sit by the fire and read a book here!

So... see what a great transformation was made.

This homeowner just needed a little direction,

She knew what she liked but was

not quite sure how to get it.

I came in and gave her a few ideas and

suggestions, but she did all the work!

I am so happy to help any of you . . .

This also makes a great gift.

My consulting rate is $50.00 an hour.

A Glimpse at the Parade of Homes

2011-07-04T17:00:00.002-06:00

I wanted to post a few more observations that I had

while touring through the Utah Valley Parade of Homes.

So many of the rooms in different homes had

white trimwork up the walls.

I really like it!

I think it gives the space a fresh and clean updated feel.

I really like this headboard

and the pillows with a touch of blue and green.

Here is more white finishwork on

the walls of this bedroom.

I like the white trim in the ceiling, with the tan color paint.

It looks so great with the stone!

I love this style of house!

Look at the white trim going up the stairs ...

and the railing finish work.

Very refreshing!

I love the white with the chocolate brown rail.

Notice how the cabinet and the artwork

make a very nice grouping.

Also love the lamp lighting.

In this laundry room notice how the fabric

in the curtain ties in with the pillows on the chair.

Isn't this such a lovely space.

The peach color on the wall would not have

been my first choice, but look how great it all ties together.

The chandelair finishes off the room perfectly.

Still love this style.

Here is the inside of the previous house.

This boy's room was fun.

Notice the wood finish on the blue wall.

It makes for a nice texture,

and of course the mural is great!

Now this is a unique boy's room.

My son who is 11 loved the room

except for the metal on the wall.

The wood on the ceiling, the quilts and the

red accessories cozy up the space.

It is always fun to see the new trends and get some inspiration.

Even if we only take a small idea here or there.

Hope you are all having a great 4th of July!!

2011-06-30T10:30:00.006-06:00

I went to the Utah County Parade of Homes and BLUE

was in this year!

I have never really been a fan of blue,

but I have to say it is growing on me!

Just thought I would show you a few photos of

the blue decor.

What do you think?

Do you want to add a little blue paint

or maybe a few blue accessories?

I don't know, I may just add a few myself . . .

I will let you know.

Here are some more ideas for BLUE at:

HGTV.

Total Room Makeover Using What Was in the Home Already!

2011-06-09T18:12:00.001-06:00

This room started out completely different---

but by shopping around the house and using items that the homeowner

had in her home already, we created a

completely different space!

BEFORE

AFTER

The antique secretary and the couch were in the basement.

The rocking chair was in the bedroom.

The other chair was in the family room.

And the two end tables were elsewhere in the house.

BEFORE

The floral sofa and loveseat were dated and she just wanted an excuse

to part with them---and this was it!

The grouping above the couch was a little too high

so it felt disconnected from the loveseat.

AFTER

See what a nice grouping we made with the leather sofa

the artwork and the lamp.

BEFORE

We took most of these items out of the room,

and created a really different feel.

AFTER

We traded the curtains from the family room to create a more formal feel.

The table is more to scale with the two chairs in this after shot.

BEFORE

AFTER

The lamps and the artwork are about the only items

that were in the room originally.

This homeowner had a number of furniture pieces that had

belonged to her grandmother.

They were in different places around the house.

But once we pulled many of them together in one space

it created a completely different style.

Notice the curtains.

I really like them better than the topper that was originally there.

The colors work very nicely in this room.

BEFORE

AFTER

Now with the curtains changed out.

Which one do you like better?

The small pieces of artwork are needlework and buttons,

They go so well with the antique feel in this room.

It is so interesting how we collect different items that we love

and usually you can see a theme that runs through them.

So when you place these items together using

design principles it feels really nice!

BEFORE

See how there were a few too many items in one space.

AFTER

If you take out some pieces and free up a little room

it looks and feels much more inviting.

See how fun this can be---

Look around your house and see if you can do a room makeover!

What Makes a Good Grouping on the Wall?

2011-05-26T15:56:00.002-06:00

A good grouping can include pieces of furniture

that are next to the items on the wall.

In this photo we hung two framed pieces with

one green wreath in the middle.

This added texture, something 3-dimensional and a

natural element all in one!

See how the framed art is hung vertical

and the bottom one feesl like it fits right

in with the chair.

When you add the lamp right next to the chair

it all fits together nicely.

In this BEFORE shot the grouping on the wall

is hung high above the couch.

This is the AFTER of the same wall.

See how we created a group with the artwork,

the lamp, and the couch.

(We brought up the leather sofa from the basement)

BEFORE

In this area there was too much in the group.

AFTER

Sometimes you have to take away items.

And when you do it feels so much better.

The wall cabinet with the lamps and the mirror

really work well as a group.

Doesn't this feel more like a space you want to be in?

And this was all done using items that this home owner

had in her home already!

Look around your house and see what you may be able

to group together.

How to Accessorize a Living Room

2011-05-19T13:51:00.004-06:00

Thank you to those of you who took the pop quiz!

At the bottom of the post I have a fun story about this living room...(go and take a look)

Also ---

I am linking up to a blog party over at

Between Naps on the Porch

to see some great transformations go and take a look!

Try a few of these ideas in your home and

see how much better it will feel.

BEFORE

I was able to take one photo and my camera battery died!

So... I only have one BEFORE,

but you get the idea that it was just two couches and a TV on the wall.

You will see what an amazing difference

adding a few accessories will do!

AFTER

See how we added:

A lamp (lighting)

Toss pillows with colors and patterns (fabric)

Tables (to place accessories on)

A bowl of apples a green plant

and some berries in the plate rack (natural elements)

We also put both of the sofas on an angle

so that the room was more open and inviting to step into.

I really think that a TV hanging on the wall needs something

underneath to anchor it.

It will give a more balanced feel to the room.

See how adding a few accessories on the table creates

a more inviting, comfortable feel.

On the back wall we added the bookcases and the table,

which were in an office downstairs.

Notice the tray on the coffee table.

I love to use trays, it is a nice neat way to contain remotes magazines

and the bowl of apples makes a colorful centerpiece.

We created a nice "unit" with the table, the lamp

and the pictures on the wall.

The ottoman was in the bedroom, but I felt like this was a great way

to soften the dark wood, it ties in nicely with the white in the

pillows and the white tray as well as the white frame above.

See how we are pulling little bits of white and green

throughout the space.

Bookcases are a great way to accessorize a room

and gives it that warm cozy feel.

We hung this mirror above the bookcase to add some more

height to the grouping. It needed a little something to

soften all of the hard edges, so the wreath was a perfect way to

add a natural element as well as something round.

It also has the right coloring accents for the room.

Notice the furniture is very neutral, so the pillows really give

it the personality, with the colors and patterns.

This homeowner purchased some pillows from Pottery Barn,

later when she returned to buy a few more they where gone.

But she found table napkins in the same coordinating fabric,

so she bought a few and sewed them into pillows...

Very creative!

Notice the fabric is not the same but they all have the

colors white, salmon and green.

The ornamental iron chair fits right in with the other accents

of ornamental iron throughout the room.

See how we softened it with a throw blanket and pillow.

Take note of the pillows and the ornamental iron wall art.

These frames also carry the color theme.

I had a previous client who purchased a redesign for her friend. This living room is the friends home.

Her house had been for sale for sometime, although they were not really thinking that it would sale anytime soon. They had purchased land to build on at a later time, and in order to qualify for the land they had to put thier house up for sale.

About a week or two after I did the redesign on the Living Room she recieved an offer on the home requesting that they include all of the furnishings just the way they were here!

She was so surprised and thrilled. Although the friend who gave her the gift was not to happy since they were neighbors.

So... what I am teaching you WORKS!

These principles make a difference in how a space feels.

You can really do this on your own

if you follow what I am teaching you.

if you live in Utah I am happy to come and assist you.

For $50.00 an hour you can have your space redesigned!

One room usually takes 2-3 hours to complete.

Call me at 801-798-0478 or email me at

imaginecozy@gmail.com

It is truely one of my Favorite things to do!

Quiz Yourself

2011-05-17T11:56:00.002-06:00

POP QUIZ!

Here is a quick BEFORE and AFTER

See if you can see what we did!

BEFORE

AFTER

Tell me what you think?

Color and Pattern Tie Together a Living Room

2011-04-30T12:43:00.002-06:00

This is the Living Room in the house that we staged to sell.

I want you to notice how the colors and patterns in this space tie it all together.

See the greens, pinks and teal color in the fabric, the wall cabinet and the china plates.

Here is a wide angle of the room.

We are standing in the entry.

The greens and teal are carried over into the entry.

See the pinks and green as well as the china that is in the dining room.

This is the view from the dining room.

Isn't this a fun arrangement on the piano?

Notice the green, pink and teal blue again.

So if you want to tie a space together

and give it a designer look,

Use similar colors and patterns throughout the room.

Have fun and try this with your own things!

Accessorize the Bathroom

2011-04-26T09:59:00.001-06:00

What a difference a few little accessories can make!

BEFORE

The vanity used to be golden oak, it was painted expresso

brown at the same time the kitchen was.

A very nice update.

AFTER

Add just a couple of items.

1. The little tree on the back of the toilet is a nice natural element.

2. The antique white cabinet door with a mirror and the little china plate really adds some personality. (you will notice she has this theme going throughout her whole house)

3. The tray on the counter has a hand towel in the same color as the shower curtain, with a few glass jars filled with cotton balls and qtips.

See how these little accessories really do add the touch

to make the room feel cozy!

Little Girl's Dresser

2011-04-25T17:46:00.001-06:00

One easy way to decorate a dresser or

table top is to add:

1. A lamp

2. A natural element

3. Something of personal interest

BEFORE

AFTER

Turning the dresser on an angle and hanging some art on the wall, really finishes off the space.

Staging a Kitchen

2011-04-25T17:23:00.000-06:00

This post is a continuation of the home we staged to sell.

Isn't this a beautiful dining area.

I wish I had before photos because these cabinets used to be golden oak!

She had someone come in and spray them all an expresso brown.

What an update!

When staging a kitchen to sell you want to have everything CLEAN and the clutter removed.

It is also very nice to have some fresh flowers on the table.

Additional rooms

to be posted soon!

Add Some Spring to Your Entry

2011-04-18T11:58:00.001-06:00

This lovely entry is in the home that we staged.

The cabinet that we used, was originally in the office.

I did not take a before picture (darn!) of this space, but it had an oversized buffet that was not the right fit for the entry. This little cabinet fit perfectly and worked so well with the spring decor.

We simply added a couple of natural elements, as well as an arrangement on the wall of art, a wreath and a mirror. Which sometimes reflects the entry lighting!

Love how the butterflies, greenery and birds give it all a Spring feel!

Master Bedroom... Staged to Sell!

2011-04-06T19:59:00.007-06:00

This is a beautiful Get Away!

Don't you want to climb into this bed!

I had so much fun staging this house to sell.

The owner has a really fun style, and we used her things with a few new accessories

to create a stylish comfortable space.

I will be showing you a number of rooms in the next few posts!

BEFORE

AFTER

We arranged the bed to be the focal point of the room, so that when you first enter, this is what catches your eye. It is always a good idea to make the bed the focal point of a bedroom.

BEFORE

AFTER

On the dresser. It works to accessorize with books as well as greenery.

The mirror with the candles creates the illusion of a larger headboard.

We added some additional bedding.

See how it is layered and a combination of blue and white.

We pulled those two colors around the room so that it feels like it all fits together.

Adding toss pillows and a blanket folded on the end of the bed makes it feel really inviting.

The master bath.

See how adding a green plant on the window seal really freshens up the space!

Overall ... a simple, fresh and inviting retreat.

Here is the MLS listing for any of you who may be looking to buy a new home.

WFR Multiple Listing Service

$235,000

2154 E 1710 S Spanish Fork UT 84660

I have linked up today with Transformation Thursday.
It's a fun place to see some great make overs!

The Dining Room, Family Room Swap

2011-03-21T12:42:00.002-06:00

This is a little vinette in the new family room.

I have some fun before and afters of a difficult space that the homeowners have always seemed to have trouble with.

And it was a bit of a challange!

BEFORE

Here is a space next to the kitchen, with a lovely fireplace but no room to really enjoy sitting in front of it.

This is were they would watch TV as well.

AFTER

We changed this into the dining room. It seemed to work so much better.

BEFORE

AFTER

The three simple boxes that we hung above the table was the right scale and not to distracting.

Now the fireplace could really be a focal point.

We carried some blue accessories throughout the space to help tie it all together.

BEFORE

The bar was so high that they did not really ever use it.

So it was no problem moving the seating area.

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

We then created a nice conversation and TV watching space in the Family Room.

When you are standing in the kitchen this is the view that you get.

Notice how we added some lamps and the occasional chair.

The TV now has it's own little grouping that fits nicely on this wall.

BEFORE

The TV was in the bookshelf beside the bar.

AFTER

By adding the chair and ottoman next to the couch and placing a rug with the group it anchors the space together. Also notice the table with the lamp, which warms up the space.

See how the bookshelf can now be used more to tie into the kitchen dining area.

Accessorized with cookbooks and bowls of fruit.

The dining room now. Clean, simple and elegant!

The family room now. Warm, cozy and inviting.

Look around your home and see if there are any changes that you could make to improve your space!

It is so fun, can make such a difference, and will cost Nothing!!

The Dining Room and Family Room Trade Places

2011-03-07T12:11:00.003-07:00

Can I just tell you all how much I love what I do! This is my favorite way to spend a couple of hours!

We really transformed this space, see if you can tell what we did.

Here are a few before and afters, feel free to comment on the changes that you can see.

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

What a warm and inviting space now!

I will post more details and photos in my next post... stay tuned!

Warm up a Room with Paint

2011-02-22T14:18:00.000-07:00

A little warm paint can have a calm and soothing effect.

In this post I have a few photos from a client, before she painted and after she painted.

See if you can see the subtle difference.

BEFORE --- The walls were plain white.

AFTER --- Notice the white plate against the wall and the teacups, they really stand out now.

Before

After

Before

After

Before

After

The paint color is very neutral but it gives an overall warm feel to the room.

I love paint! You can create so many different effects just with a gallon of paint.

You should try this!

How to "Cozy-up" the Living Room

2011-02-18T21:14:00.001-07:00

This Living Room just needed a few little tweeks

and it really created a more inviting space.

BEFORE

AFTER

By adding the chairs and the table with the lamp, we created a very nice little conversation area.

One chair came from the office and the other chair and table from the bedroom.

BEFORE This view is to the left of the previous shot.

AFTER

See how we moved the sofas closer together and on an angle.

The ottoman works so much nicer between the two sofas.

We have now created another conversation area.

BEFORE

The table and the TV seem like two very different objects with nothing tying them together.

AFTER

After adding some height to the table, it now creates a grouping and is much more comfortable to look at.

The natural element and the odd numbers also really add to the cozy feeling on the table.

Having a bookcase in the room makes it very nice to accessorize and add some of your own personality to the space.

Notice how it is just a few books as well as a few items of interest.

This makes the bookcase much more pleasing to look at.

Just a different view.

Remember we are doing this redesign using only items that the homeowner already has. Usually this means that everything is not just right. But the homeowner now has an idea of what she needs and some homework for when she is ready to shop!

It would be ideal to have a few blue or green patterned toss pillows for the sofa as well as the chairs.

I would also love a couple of pillows on the other sofa as well.

A tray would be nice on the ottoman. The lamp really does warm up the room.

But overall don't you think this space is very inviting!

Now go and try alittle rearrange at your house---and I would love to see the before and afters.

Feel free to send me some photos!

Accessories Can Make ALL the Difference!

2011-02-09T15:36:00.003-07:00

This is the Family Room that we used for the quiz in my last post.

I want to share with you today what a difference a few accessories can make to a the feeling of a room.

BEFORE

The homeowner wanted this family room to feel more comfortable.

AFTER

We added a rug from the office, a curtain topper and a few colorful pillows.

Notice that we did not change the furniture around. The cozy feel comes from the accessories that we brought into the space.

BEFORE

AFTER

See how the "unit" we made with the two little tables and the photos,

created such a great focal point in the space.

She had these photos all ready in the colored mats and was looking for frames. We hung them up so she could see what it would feel like in that group and how to rehang them all when she had the frames.

Notice the colorful artwork!

It makes such a statement in the room.

This creative homeowner had her children paint this art!

Isn't that fantastic!

So with the teal blue in the art as well a mat on one of the photos and the teal pillow and blanket on the couch it really ties the room together.

BEFORE

AFTER

We created another "unit" on this wall.

Each little drawer in this shelf holds shoes since this is right near the door to outside.

See how the artwork along with the shelf and the basket of reeds makes a nice grouping.

The flower motif in the curtain, the rug, and the artwork in the previous photo

also tie the feel of the room together because of the

similar pattern.

The teal color adds some real LIFE to the space.

Of course having a lamp warms up the space as well.

Even if you only have ONE.

So by adding a few
simple accessories
you can really cozy up a room!

I am participating in Transformation Thursday there are so many ideas on things transformed!

Go and take a look.

Redesign QUIZ!

2011-01-25T12:13:00.000-07:00

Today we are doing a little Quiz!

Take a look at the before and the after photos,

what do you see that made the difference in how the room feels---

BEFORE

AFTER

I would love it if you post your answers!

Next post I will show you all of the photos

and have the answers.

Your Furniture Does Not Have to Match

2011-01-17T21:45:00.003-07:00

This Family Room Makeover is such a great example

of how to take different types of furniture

and make them look good all together in one room.

Here is the BEFORE

This homeowner had taken one of my classes and had so
many things right---

Notice the lamps turned on, the throw on the couch

and natural elements throughout the space.

AFTER

Sometimes it is nice to have a new set of eyes

to walk through your home and see other possibilities.

We found a round leather ottoman upstairs in the study,

it really brought a different feel to the room.

And of course you will notice the brown loveseat

(isn't it just wonderful!)

We traded this out with the matching loveseat.

The reason I did this was to bring more color and interest to the room.

Since the walls were white and the curtains not yet in place,

the patterned loveseat really brought some spice to the room!

BEFORE

There are two things that I would like you to notice about this shot.

1. That the fireplace is covered up by the chair.

A fireplace is a natural focal point and always a great place to draw attention.

2. The furniture here does not match and is lacking something.

AFTER

See how we moved the chair away from the fireplace,

and placed a number of more interesting objects in the space above.

We also postioned the furniture

around the fireplace so it felt like the focal point of the room.

We took out the loveseat that matched the couch and brought in

the brown patterned sofa.

It became the inspiration piece of the room.

We took the gold, red, and green that were in the sofa and

added those colors throughout the space using

toss pillows, books and accessories.

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

The red pillows in the chairs as well as the accessories

above the fireplace help to unify the room.

Spreading the color throughout the room really ties it all together.

We added in some gold and red accessories as well as a natural element and some fabric.

The fabric softened the square opening and added color to the space.

So... if you want to create a designer look---

Use furniture that does not match---

BUT is tied together with colors that you have pulled from an inspiration piece.

(here, it was the brown patterened loveseat.)

Move those colors around the room with toss pillows, throw blankets and accessories.

This will create a unified space that looks fantastic but does not all match exactly!

Lighting --- The Perfect Way to Warm up a Room

2011-01-08T23:37:00.000-07:00

This time of year I especially love to turn on the lamps.

The extra lighting creates a warmth that makes your home so inviting

when it is cold and dreary outside.

It works in every room---

Now take a minute and turn on a few lamps!

You will be amazed at how good it FEELS.

Add Some Personality With Curtains

2011-01-02T00:11:00.003-07:00

I am excited to start off the new year and show you

how you can totally change up a space by adding some FABRIC.

I know that I have been posting alot about this recently,

but I just have some wonderful photos to share with you all!

I had so much fun doing this dining room!

We decided that it really needed a little more personality,

and FABRIC is a wonderful wayto pull in color and style---

as well as soften a space.

BEFORE

AFTER

Can you believe how much personality this room just got!

(Don't you just love that unique light fixture --- I would really like to find one for myself!)

See how the color really adds to the room.

The fabric softens the sides of the windows and ties in with the runner on the table.

BEFORE

AFTER

When you coordinate stripes with a floral pattern

as long as they have the same colors, it works together nicely.

BEFORE

AFTER

See how nice FABRIC is!

The curtains really did add some personality and warmth to this dining room.

Now go add a little fabric to your house---

and it's personality will just Blossom!

The Best Christmas Decoration of All!

2010-12-22T12:19:00.011-07:00

SNOW!

We recieved almost 2 feet of snow!

Isn't that the best Christmas Decoration you can possibly have.

And it is a gift straight from heaven!

Have a White Christmas!

Christmas Decor This Year

2010-12-21T12:10:00.002-07:00

Christmas in a different house can be really fun!

Notice many of the same items that I had from last year

(in the last post)

but how they are incorporated in a different space.

So nice to have a little fire!

Same tree.

A little bit of lighting.

Did you notice the same quilt and the mirror with the garland?

(Fabric and Natural Elements)

Little wreaths on the lamps.

Merry Christmas!

Using Design Principles at Christmas

2010-12-15T12:00:00.000-07:00

Just a Little Christmas to share.

This was some of our Christmas decorations last year.

Notice, many of the principles that we talk about

also work well when decorating for Christmas.

Lighting

Fabric

Natural Elements

Balance

Groupings

Color and Pattern

It all creates a cozy comfortable space to live in!

In my next post I will share some of the Christmas decor of this year.

More FABRIC in a Bedroom

2010-12-06T11:40:00.001-07:00

This is the third post on how fabric can really soften up a space!

BEFORE

AFTER

Look at what a difference the curtains made!

It dresses up the window and softens the hard lines of the window.

BEFORE

Notice how the touches of blue are brought around

the room with the curtains, the pillow and the

throw blanket on the end of the bed.

Now the room looks finished and it feels so inviting.

Here is the same shot--- but look what a little red pillow adds!

The rug has some red in it as well as some little bits

in the pillow and the bird prints.

I just wanted to show you a little different look.

Wow--- fabric really does make your world more comfortable!!

Fabric--- Add Curtains and a Pillow

2010-11-29T16:19:00.002-07:00

This is the second in a series of posts on Fabric.

BEFORE

This bedroom before really does look good ---

it just needed some fabric on the windows.

AFTER

We did just a little bit of fabric on the top of the two windows

and added a pillow on the bed with the same fabric as the new curtains.

It ties the space together nicely when you take similar fabric and

have it in different places around the room.

BEFORE

AFTER

The large window really needed to be softened

by adding the long paneled curtains it really warmed up the bedroom

and made if feel more inviting and comfortable.

Add a few curtains and pillows

and you will be amazed

at how comfortable and cozy your room will feel!

Fabric --- It can make all the difference!

2010-11-19T11:45:00.003-07:00

This post is a first, in a series on FABRIC

and how it really does make a home

FEEL so much more comfortable and COZY!

BEFORE

This bedroom has some beautiful furniture and great bedding,

but it just needed a little something more---

AFTER

What made the difference?

FABRIC

Curtains

Rug

Throw pillows

Throw blanket

(And of course see how much warmer it feels

with the lamp turned on!)

BEFORE

AFTER

Curtains really do soften a space and make it feel more inviting.

The throw blanket and pillow on the ottoman

help to create a softer welcoming feel.

Notice how we brought the colors and patterns around the room.

It helps to tie the space together.

The toss pillows on the bed have some solid colors and some pattern.

But 3 main colors --- Green, Brown, and White

The green pillow in the front has the same fabric as the curtains ---

we are moving that pattern and color around the room.

On the window seat we added more pillows with texture and pattern.

See how they do not all match but do look good together.

On the chair across the room notice the patterned pillows .

The curtains really do soften the space!

So add a little Fabric to your home

and it will FEEL more COZY!!

Living Room Redo

2010-11-01T03:00:00.003-06:00

This Living Room received a Sophisticated Upgrade---

and all with what the homeowner had already!

BEFORE

AFTER

What made the difference?

We just moved the furniture on an angle,

added an armchair that was in storage down in the basement,

and added an area rug, that was rolled up in the garage!

See how the placement of the pillows
creates a more sophisticated feel.

BEFORE

AFTER

See how inviting this space is now.

You really want to sit down and visit.

The area rug anchors the furniture

and really helps to create a nice conversation area.

The piano wall BEFORE

AFTER

It was such a high wall that we needed to add some height to the top of the piano.

This made the scale of the wall not feel so large.

BEFORE

AFTER

What do you see that makes such a difference between these two shots?

Notice how the AFTER FEELS so much Calmer.

See how the size of the armoire fits the space

between the two windows better,

and because it has doors, it can close up the visual clutter

of movies and books.

Amazing isn't it!

The wicker baskets under the table add some texture to the space.

There are touches of green, white and brown throughout the room.

Using these colors around the room, ties it all together.

The votive candles on the table add some visual life to the room.

The fabric runner softens the tabletop.

What a difference!

See if you can take some of these simple tips

and make your own space more Cozy!

Studio 5 - Fall Decorating---Great Looks For Your Front Porch And More!

2010-10-19T21:04:00.004-06:00

Here is the segment that we did on Friday!

I always love to work with Studio 5,
Thanks for having me on.

4 ideas on how to decorate

your front porch for Fall---

all for under $50.00.

1. Paint the front door ---a little fresh paint in a fall color, really adds to the autumn feel.
2. Add vinyl numbers on the door---what a fun way to show your address.
3. Hang a wreath---a great way to add some texture and personality.
4. Place a pot of mums and some pumpkins--- flowers and pumpkins always add a pop of color.

How to bring some of that fall décor inside.

• I love to add little pumpkins ---

there are a wide variety of styles, and you can put them in almost anything.

• Add a lantern with an orange candle.

• I have a cake plate full of leaves and squash on my table.

• Hang a wreath on the mirror in the entry.

• Frame a few pressed leaves.

Front Porch Makeover for under $50

2010-10-18T01:36:00.004-06:00

We did this front porch makeover for a Studio 5 segment.

BEFORE

AFTER

I think the biggest change is just the color of the front door.

Paint was only $8.55--- it was Dot com by Kwal and I did it in a satin finish.

The vinyl letters on the door were only $5.00 and what a nice difference they make compared to the plastic letters that were under the light in the before shot.

BEFORE

AFTER

The wreath on the front door was an ordinary twig wreath with some fall color and ribbon.

Of course the pumkins really add to the fall theme, and the flowers some real happy color!

It was so fun to do.

Thanks, Andrea for letting us come and have fun with your front porch!

I am joining the Fall Makeovers at Between Naps on the Porch
Go there and see some creative decorating for the season!

I will post the video from the show with all

of the details in my next post.

More of the Living Room

2010-10-11T12:42:00.001-06:00

In my last post I showed you a before and after of this Living Room.

The homeowner really just wanted to figure out a way to make the room

feel different than it was.

BEFORE

AFTER

Remember our goal is to make the space feel more COZY using what is in the home already.

The Living Room was more formal and we wanted to create a more casual feel---

and something different.

BEFORE

AFTER

We folded the quilt over the back of the chair and placed a couple of pillows

that did not match-- but had the same colors of the room.

We also placed a lace coverlet on the back of the other chair,

it ties in nicely with the lace drapes, and relaxes the formalness of the chairs.

BEFORE

AFTER

We placed the sofa on an angle which was very different from what they were used to.
Also notice a throw blanket on the arm of the sofa
and a couple of pillows that are not the same fabric as the sofa.

A few books on the table with some greenery and you may want to sit down and read!

We decorated the end table with a lamp, a couple of books with some greenery on top,
and a pair of little angels.

The entry

We created a nice unit with the bookcase and the mirror grouping.

Notice how we took the pillow from the sofa and placed it on the chair,

that way you tie the color and pattern around the room.

It does feel inviting!

Try placing your sofa on an angle and see how it feels --- you may be surprised!

Change Up Your Living Room

2010-10-02T22:24:00.001-06:00

Here is a Living Room that we changed up.

This is the BEFORE.

(I am having some trouble uploading the photos so here are a couple to start with)

AFTER

Can you tell what we did that made the difference?

I LOVE Fall!

2010-09-23T12:19:00.001-06:00

Fall is my favorite time of the year

and a wonderful time to decorate your home

with some fall color.

Wreathes are one way to decorate for the season.

So. . . here are 3 inspirations from

Better Homes and Gardens!