Design With Exspansion In Mind

Is there a room in your home that is too small and causing you to have decorating woes? Expanding your space with a home renovation can easily solve that problem. However, if you can’t afford that renovation project just yet there are a few things you can do to increase your space.

In order to visually increase the appearance of your living space use color schemes that are lighter in shade. Lighter colors are excellent for creating the illusion of a larger room. Dark color do the absolute opposite. Dark colors lessen the space. Color schemes to consider are neutrals, pastels and white variations such eggshell or bone white.

Another important element to creating an open space is lighting. Introducing light that literally bounces of the ceilings or installing recessed spot lighting is a perfect way for small spaces to quickly expand. Creating a seamless feel from ceiling to floor is the key. Avoid dark flooring. Seek lighter colored flooring for a endless appearance. Examples of such flooring are the lighter shades of carpeting or the lighter tones of oak wood flooring. These simple enhancements invites the open feel.

As mentioned in a previous post; the use of a single color scheme with items such as furniture, rugs and wall art help in creating that uniform yet expanded illusion. However, in order to spruce things up a bit introduce variances in shades as well as textures of that same color grouping.

Adding wall mirrors or mirror tiles to a focal wall in the room also gives the illusion of increased space. Mirrors do a superb job of reflecting light and color.

Here are a final few things to remember when creating space:
Don’t over accessorize with too many furniture pieces. Instead of opting for a the traditional 3-piece furniture set consider a love seat and 2 outspokenly designed sitting chairs. Remember less, light and bright is more when creating added space.

Recession Proof ing your Décor

Wanting to redesign your space however, is left with the feeling that perhaps now is not the right time to do so? Are the constant warnings to cut back due to the state of the economy leaving you a bit hesitant? Honestly, with a little creativity and the ability to give a few key pieces a second life it can be done for a fraction of the amount. It’s truly about the ability to expand on your ideas and come up with keen ways to make your space look like you spent a great deal when you really didn't. When it comes to colors it’s always best to choose a color that is most appealing to you. Consider supplementing that color with several related colors in the same group for a nice harmony of hues. Choosing monochromatic shades is classic yet trendy. Adding accent color items as finishing touches like silver, bronze, black or white will boost your color scheme perfectly

Use existing items within your home. Visit your garage, basement and other rooms of your home and consider grouping similar items by them or color together to make a room have more a designer collection feel. Remember everything does not necessarily have to always match. Diversity brings a little something to be reckoned with.

For more decorating tips on a budget check out Domino Magazine Budget Decorating Guide Learn how to recession proof your décor by checking out Domino's Magazine sections on: $1 design finds, under $10 decor, under $100, cheap tips from domino readers, interior design for non-millionaires,dining room on a dime, the thrifty living room, bedroom on a budget and vintage shopping tips.

A Point Click Redesign Favorite

iVillage has a very nifty decorating online tool called the "Design A Room". This virtual interior room designer allows you to create your own unique room designs just before your eyes. Thinking about redesigning a room and feeling a bit sketchy? Are your visual concerns holding you back from getting the project underway? This program allows you to experiment with color and design. iVillage site says “Our new Design a Room tool is the perfect place to unleash your inner interior designer”. With just a few clicks you choose the style and the type of room. Get creative and enjoy changing the flooring, wall colors, ceiling types, colors and cabinetry. Once you have created your ideal room you have the option of saving it to your personal idea folder. This also generates a personalized product list for you as well. Hope you enjoy this clever redesign must.

Hot New Rug Design Style

How beautifully chic is this…what a great new spin on the traditional rug. This Bisanzio tile mosaic rug from Sicis enhances the style and beauty of any living space. This new design element can be best described as exciting, interesting and texturally alluring. The glass mosaic reflects a light on the surface that conveys a touch of elegance that makes these innovative rugs unique. These colored glass mosaic tiles has a luxurious look. Initially when you look at the glass tile rugs they appear to be like the traditional rugs were accustomed to but only after a closer look the complete effect of the precious glass is revealed. This eye trick is due to the classic designs and patterns that we are use to. These durable inventive rugs are also ideal for any bathroom or entrance way.

Heighten Your Shower Style

I know I often discuss one of my favorite design styles “Shabby Chic” however; I'm an Aficionada of numerous other design styles as well. I sometimes veer towards the modern designs that are more prominent from time to time. I particularly love when I see a space that has an eclectic feel. I’m also keen on spaces that do a great job of mixing the old in with the new. Here Antonio Lupi takes modern shower doors that are often plain, and added a wonderful print that I feel says old world. This shower door is visually pleasing yet provides privacy. I must say that this is quite a chic innovation.

Creating a Chic Cottage Getaway

MyHomeIdeas.com has a wonderful slide show that shows you eight ways to add charm to your chic cottage. Don’t have a cottage? Don’t worry; you can simply make your space look like one. Many of these redesign tips are quite affordable and can add the allure your space was in need of. Remember its all about the details, the themes, the right pop of color and perfectly selected accents and accessories. Keep these in mind when seeking to enhance or transform any décor.

Inspiration for a Shabby Chic Motif

You hired the building contractors and the work is successfully completed to your standards. Now it’s time to put your personal style stamp on things. The Shabby Chic style is surely a Design Chic favorite. This design element has a sheer romantic elegance and is considered to be ultra posh. You cannot think of Shabby Chic without Rachel Ashwell coming to mind. She has brought this decorating style to the forefront like no other through her appearances on HGTV. If you like the look of this beautiful European vintage style, then you have a few options as to achieving this pristine look. Rachel Ashwell has an official online store at shabbychic.com or enjoy her Simply Shabby Chic collection at Target’

There are other thrifty ways as I mentioned before to achieving this look such as garage sales, thrift, vintage or antique shops. These are great places to look for unique furniture or accessories on a budget. I have also added below a few online links that can be used for key pieces, finishing touches or design ideas.

For Shabby Chic and cottage style decorating check out: Not too shabby while on the site be sure to check out their photo gallery for some decorating inspiration. If you’re looking for a shabby chic gift or accessories visit the old painted cottage.

….Next post I will have more Shabby Chic inspired links.