Does your furniture talk dirty?

All of us lead active lifestyles. Kids, pets and family can be hard on your upholstery and it shows in the rooms that are most often used. So how can you clean them? It is best to avoid over the counter cleaning products like Resolve, or Wool-lite. Most of them contain oils that will leave a film or residue, that attract more dirt leaving stains larger and more visible. Never attempt to clean your upholstery without knowing what the fabric is first. Carpet is a great example of this. Many carpets contain olefin and cheap recycled products that act as stain guards. Unfortunately, those stain guards are on the surface of the fibers, so when a spill occurs the protectant is removed and your carpet is now exposed to new dirt and stains. It’s best to look for a cleaning code on the fabric tag found on the frame underneath your cushions or tag under the carpet so you are better equipped with the right products. There are 4 different cleaning codes found on furniture, fabrics and rugs:

Upholstery Cleaning codes

If you can’t find a code, then it’s best to leave it to the professionals to choose the best cleaning method. The fabric dictates which method will be the most effective and also how well it will clean. Most professionals like Citru Solution charge between $50 to $100 to clean a sofa or rug. If you decide to hire a professional always have them do a test spot first. If you’re not satisfied, or they cannot get the results you want, then it is best not to have it cleaned. Unfortunately, some fabrics and rugs, especially those made of acrylics and synthetic fibers cannot be effectively cleaned.

Upholstery cleaning

When purchasing new upholstery for your home it is best to consider what fabrics are being used in what type of room. An active room requires more than a guest room. If you have a choice always go with natural fabrics like wool, cotton or linen. They are easier to clean and not as finicky as synthetics. Or consider using commercial fabrics, they are high performance and handle messy lifestyles well.

After your upholstery has been cleaned hang your rug up or stand chair and sofa cushions up, to allow them to thoroughly dry. I highly recommend if you hire a professional to call Rose Upholstery cleaning or Citru Solution. Both use all natural cleaners that are not harsh and safe for kids and pets. Stains are inevitable, but before you allow your furniture to talk dirty, figure out the fabric materials otherwise you’re the one who gets punished!

Sign-up for our Newsletter

Don’t forget to follow us on TWITTER

And Join us on our fan page at FACEBOOK

7 Ultimate Decorating Must Haves

Gone are the days of well polished rooms that no one uses. Todays interiors are fresh with a twist and built for families, pets and entertaining. And if you want your room to sing, then here are 11 must have design items your room can’t live without!

1) Emerald

If you haven’t got it, then go on and get it! It is the hottest color of the moment and I guarantee you it will be be popping up in your clothing and home decor faster than turquoise. It is an appealing color that soothes our moods, and goes with everything!

2) Honey Comb

Honey comb

The coolest graphic on the street. While geometrics are still the hottest thing, trellis is out honey comb is in. Be prepared to see this graphic popping up in book shelves, accessories, fabric and wallpaper.

3) Unique lighting

Unique lighting fixtures

Boring light fixtures from big box stores are just hum drum. Many designers are viewing lighting as art and making it do double duty. Look for lights that are fun, unique and kick up conversation.

4) Greige

Greige

Brown is a has been, grey is the cool kid. Grey plays well with all colors and is more contemporary than it’s brown counterparts.

5) Fantastic art

Christina Baker

Art, art and more art. Always have at least one custom piece in your home that is special to you and lifts your spirits. This piece above by Christina Baker makes me so damn happy I could forfeit vodka and ice cream for a month just to own it…..I think.

6) Vintage

Vintage furniture

Buy vintage furniture or invest in antiques. Furniture today is not built like yesterday; it’s also not unique. Ever try to lift a 60′s dresser? It takes two guys, a sumo wrestler and peter pan. Not really but it’s fun to imagine a man in green tights lifting furniture. But I digress. My point, make your space different than your neighbors, find pieces that are cool and be good to the environment by recycling.

7) That piece that makes you go…..

Spider wallpaper

Always include oddities or conversation pieces in your home like this spider wallpaper for the powder room! Nothing like making your guests squirm while they pee! hahaha

Sign-up for our Newsletter

Don’t forget to follow me on TWITTER

And Join us on our fan page at FACEBOOK

Image: 1, 2, 3, 4,

Cash confessions-Quick tips to perk up your budget

It’s no secret we all wish we could stretch our dollars further in order to complete our project the way we want. As a professional I will often recommend to clients that they save their dollars to get exactly what they want, rather then sacrificing, but as a rule of thumb always keep these four things in mind:

1) If you’re not sure what your project is going to cost, hire a professional like myself to come out to give you an idea.

Kitchen in need of remodel

I was recently hired to help a gal do this very thing. She is about to move here from Dallas and loves a home located in Brentwood, TN. Great location, good size and close to work. The problem? The entire house has medallions on every cabinet (shown above). They are in the kitchen, bathrooms, laundry room…you name it they are on every surface. Unfortunately this application has ruined all of the cabinets, thus explaining why this house has been on the market sine 2010. Before even doing minor decorating this home will have a minimum of $75K in renovations. Had she not hired me she would have had to live with the existing cabinets, or fallen into a money pit.

2) Prioritize-Create a list of the essentials

Home Exterior update

If your house needs a new roof, a front door and a new garage, figure out what NEEDS to be done first and budget accordingly. If you only received $4K back on your tax return and the new roof is going to be $5800, you need to decide if you want to set that $4K aside in savings or move forward on the garage door. I see many people fall into the pitfall of wanting to do it all at once, and putting home improvements on your credit card is never wise. Plan, plan, plan.

3) Avoid DIY if you don’t have experience.

DIY projects

There is a huge DIY movement sweeping the nation thanks to reality TV shows and DIY classes at big box stores. Many homeowners fall into the trap of thinking they will save money if they “do-it-themselves” and avoid hiring a contractor. Homeowners that go it alone without proper training and experience learn real fast that mistakes are extremely costly. Especially if you end up having to hire a contractor and the materials you purchased have to be repurchased again. Not to mention the lost time!

4) Choose projects that will yield the biggest return.

Kitchen update

In our industry we call this the ‘cost vs value’ on return. Does your project retain resale, and will another potential buyer think so? If money is driving your decisions on your home improvement projects, all of the above factors must be taken into consideration, but none are more important than the ROI. If you are really scrimping pennies you need to choose projects that give you the biggest bang for your buck.

The Kitchen project shown above is a great example. By simply repainting this kitchen a complimentary color to the kitchen cabinets her small investment of $1500 turned into a $20K ROI when she put her house on the market. Why? Because the potential new homeowners saw the value in a beautiful large kitchen that works well for their kids and family….not the cabinets with a strong yellow undertone. By hiring me to help her select the RIGHT paint color, her small investment turned into big reward.

Sign-up for our Newsletter

Don’t forget to follow us on TWITTER

And Join us on our fan page at FACEBOOK

Photos: AB HOME Interiors, DIY life,

4 Mobile Apps To Boost Your Design Project

As our lives grow increasingly difficult from lack of time and overworked schedules, nothing creates more chaos than trying to manage a new home project in the midst of it all. Whether you are working on a vast home remodel or redecorating the living room, home projects take time, money and great tools!

1) Sherwin Williams Color Snap

Sherwin Williams Paint

OK, this app is brilliant and just might save lives. The Color snap app allows you to capture real items in your everyday world and match them to Sherwin-Williams paint colors; for free! The app also lets you choose coordinating colors or you can Ask Sherwin-Williams for recommendations. WIth a tool like this you can easily create a color palette from all your favorite things and keep them at your fingertips.

2) iHandy Carpenter

iHandySoft

iHandy is the easiest and most convienent tool kit in the world. Why? Because these days who doesn’t have their phone? This app gives you 5 tools in one app and it is easy to use. Not to mention handy! It comes with a plumb bob, a surface level, a protractor, ruler and once calibrated the plumb bob, surface level and level bar become an inclinometer. Ok I have no idea what that means or is, but the level and plumb bob have proved to be life savers for me!

3) Pinterest

If you’re not on Pinterest you are living under a rock. It is the quintessential tool to use if you are doing any kind of remodeling or redecorating to your home. It is the best tool to find inspiration and organize and share your findings. Essentially an online scrapbooking of sorts that allows you to keep all your ideas at your finger tips. I honestly do not know how I ran my business before this tool!

4) Houzz Design Ideas

Houzz Design Ideas

Houzz is an upscale website offering more than one million high resolution photos of anything and everything interior design. Cnn called it the Wikipedia for interior design. It offers a place to create idea books, surf through categories by room and collect inspiration on everything imaginable. It also offers up terrific articles to help educate you on what to expect on your next custom build to how to hang a chandelier.

Sign-up for our Newsletter

Don’t forget to follow me on TWITTER

And Join us on our fan page at FACEBOOK

LED and Education

Hit lights

“The Designers Lighting Forum of New York has announced its highest advance registration numbers to LEDucation 7. Held in New York City on March 20, 2013, the event draws designers and lighting professionals for educational sessions and a product expo dedicated to the LED market.” quoted by KB+B.

This is exciting news! Lighting has always been a passion of mine since college. One of my instructors instilled the importance and correlation of good lighting with good design. As she would say “If a space is lit well, the Architecture and furnishings will sing!” And I agree with her. Unfortunately, good lighting has always been done with halogen lights. They offer the whitest of light, showing off interiors in their purest form. While they make the interior look beautiful they are harsh on our environment. And frankly, fluorescent lighting is not the “green” answer-no one needs that in their environment, they’re ugly! LED is the answer! They use less energy, produce little to no heat and are the closest to white light that you can achieve! Here is a great post on lighting basics!

Don’t forget to FOLLOW US on Twitter

And Don’t forget to join our facebook fan page

Hall of Books-How to decorate a hallway

Was thumbing through the internet over the weekend and came across this lovely book shelf built into a hallway. What a great use of space and a great decorative item to add to a non descript area of the home. Like ceilings, nothing should be left undone including your hallways. Love this! What do you think of this design? Makes me want to start reading real books again!

Can also say I adore the lighting too!

Ready to get your room started? Need some help? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

Via

How to Decorate an Entry

Every home has a point of entry to welcome its guests. Some are small and require creative ways for big impact and others vast demanding key pieces to cement style and grace. No matter which you possess both require five key ingredients to command order for good reception.

AB HOME Interiors entrance

1) Color- Every home should have flow and your entry sets the stage for what’s to come. Wow your guests with an enticing backdrop that shows you and your personality off. Are you calm and elegant or bold and eclectic? What ever your style it all starts with color!

2) Art- I’m a huge advocate for art. It is what I consider to be the “wild card”. It can be abstract, traditional or somewhere in between. Choose pieces that you love and create conversation. If ever you invest in art this is one place that calls for quality.

3) Console-If you have an entry that is plentiful in space, always include a console or side table. It is a great place to dress up your entry with my next suggestion: lighting. It is also a great place to set keys or mail should you need it along with other favorable decorative items.

To continue reading this article click here!

Ready to get your room started? Need some help? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

Designer Do’s and Don’ts

I would like to thank DefySupply for featuring me as one of their experts for their latest sales infographic. If you are looking for furniture they are the place to go! As one of their favorite designers they stroked my ego by including me in their latest ad. So thanks defysupply, you rock. But honestly, I am pretty great so listen to what I recommend, it will change your life-promise!

6 Designing Secrets from an Interior Designer

When it comes to design there are few rules to adhere to. I mean let’s get something straight here, it’s about creative expression and really showing off your true personality. Setting up a list of rules on how you should and shouldn’t design your home is like telling a painter how they should wave their brush strokes. We all do it differently, approach it from all directions but the end result is always magic. So when designing your home, whether you’re a complete novice or fifteen years into the business always live through creativity but keep a few things in mind.

1) Always have flowers

AB HOME Offices

I am a huge fan of flowers and talk of them often here on the blog. Arrangements do not have to be difficult and can make a huge impact on a room with little effort.

2) Every home should shine

AB HOME Interiors

Just like the photo above, all homes and spaces should have some bling. Add sparkle where ever you can. Whether it be chandeliers, candle holders, decorative accessories, any item that reflects light helps lift a room.

3) Add beauty

Art

Simple things in our lives add beauty. It is about honoring your specific lifestyle and the little things that make your house special. It could be an expensive art piece over the fireplace or your five year olds drawing from school. Beauty comes in many things, learn how to define what your is.

4) Buy quality, buy once

Quality

My mother instilled this in me growing up. She would wait a year to buy a chair or furniture piece if it meant she wouldn’t have to ever buy it again. To this day she still has all of our original furniture from our small house in California from when I was a kid. To her quality far out weighed quantity.

5) Always buy natural

All natural

I have a particular client who is a bachelor and thought it was high way robbery to spend $40 on sheets. However, his $40 sheets were 100% polyester and sand paper would have been more comfortable for sleeping. When I suggested he upgrade to $400 sheets his 30 year old heart stopped. But when I explained to him that the benefits of all natural far out weighed the price, not to mention he’d sleep better, he was sold. Now he tells everyone he knows that better quality sheets are the way to go.

6) Get rid of the clutter

Clean and easy

So many homes I go in are stuffed with unnecessary things. Over cluttered with paper, magazines and items that rarely see the light of day. A space needs to breathe and be enjoyed. Choose items carefully and chuck the rest. You’ll be amazed at how well you feel!

Ready to get your room started? Need some help? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

Soothing decor to help you sleep

When designing a bedroom space it is always wise to choose colors, items and textures that promote rest. It may seem like a great idea to follow that new trend of flaming red on one wall, but ultimately it won’t be a wise choice so always start with things you love. I just met with a new client this past week that was a prime example of outside influence taking charge. Her mother-in-law loves red and kept advising she too put red in her living room. Problem was she hated red. But it wasn’t until she removed all the red accents from the room and replaced it with her love of blue that she realized this. Your bedroom should be decorated the same. Surround yourself with the things you love to promote a place of rest.

Brooke Giannetti

1) Choose soft colors-

They are always soothing and help lift our spirits. We lead hectic lives so simplicity is key. Don’t choose harsh colors that will agitate or raise your energy. This is a space to relax and allow you to unwind.

2) Don’t over clutter-

Clutter in a bedroom does not promote rest and sleep. In fact people who bring their work into the bedroom are less likely to sleep the entire night through. Paperwork and computer emails play on the mind even once the computer is closed. So avoid bringing anything other than fun magazines, a good book or a journal into your room.

3) Lighting-

Always use lamps in your bedroom as the main source of light. Overhead lighting can be harsh unless on a dimmer. Keep lighting low and comfortable to help warm up your space and help you unwind.

4) Easy fabrics-

A bedroom should not be decorated with complicated fabrics. Keep it simple. In fact, most of your fabrics should be all natural materials of Cotton, linen, or wool. Don’t underestimate the power of an all natural fabric. They are easy to care for, and feel great on your skin.

5) Furniture

I am a huge fan of upholstered headboards in a bedroom. They are comfortable to lean on when reading in bed and can easily be changed up for the seasons. I am also a huge fan of comfy seating in a bedroom. Even if you can only fit one chair in your space, it is a great place to throw on some shoes, read a book or catch up on blogging.

Love Joy design

Another tip, always have two nightstands. I go into so many homes that only have one nightstand. Sorry folks, this is a big party foul. Even if it is small like the one shown above, each side of the bed should have a place to set a book or a cup of coffee, there is always enough room!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

Trove Wallpaper

I recently visited one of my favorite blogs, Quintessence and was introduced to Trove wallpaper. Wallpaper is red hot and I am using it everywhere, so I was excited to find this new resource. So many awesome papers to choose from and nothing run of the mill or cookie cutter.

Like this one shown above called Chroma. It looks like DNA to me, but love the blur and movement of color. This paper would be excellent in large room or powder room.

Love this one called NYX. How great would this be in an entry way, mudroom or hallway? Love this and the fact that it’s muted in color, allows you to use it in many different applications.

Another favorite is the Navi pattern. I am working on putting together a pink office. This pattern would be stunning in an office, bedroom, or bathroom. Of course I love the pink!

For the original article and additional information on this paper, visit the Q Blog. What do you think of this paper? Could you find a place in your home to use it? Um, I think so!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

How to Decorate Around a TV

Clients often ask me what to do with their TV’s. Women want to hide them, and men want to highlight and show them off. I am not opposed to having a TV out in the room. Now that TV’s are flat and very small they are not nearly as obtrusive as they used to be. I mean think about it, TV’s used to be close to twenty four inches thick. (Not to mention weigh over 100 pounds!) But why not hang your TV on the wall and include some attractive art?

As I perused through One Kings Lane today they had this article on how to incorporate your TV into a work of art. This is a great way to make your TV disappear and turn it into a feature rather than an eye sore. A win-win for both hubby and wifey. What do you think? Do you like this application or would you rather hang your art and TV separately?

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

The writing is on the wall

I design a lot of homes around active families so when I came across this design on pinterest (shown below) I knew it was something that I would be using in a future design. It is originally from this website here, but I am not from the Netherlands so I have no clue what this is for, or what the website is trying to say. Lucky for us this design is easy to replicate and ideal for an active family. How great would this be in a hallway or in the kitchen?

Take some old frames from a flea market or thrift store and paint them the color of your home. Place dry erase or chalk board paint inside of them and hang in an area that the whole family uses. With chalk or dry erase pens the whole family can leave fun notes for one another, and create fun art as you go. Who says art needs to be boring?!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

Bonus Spaces for Quiet Solitude

Many of the main spaces in our homes are designed for social gathering. However, there is no denying that with our hectic, busy lives we crave solitude. Many homes provide natural nooks and crannies within their architecture, perfect for creating a small space for any activity carved out for one. When designing your space for one don’t always default to an easy chair and lamp. Think of the many possibilities a special space can bring you and suddenly the restful quiet opportunities are endless. When designing your new space take a few things into consideration.

1) Discover your space

Harley's Nook

Our homes are filled with them. All sorts of little areas just dying for attention. No matter where the location, determine the best nook in your home. It can be in a hallway, bedroom, stair landing, living room, corner or even a closet.

2) How will you use it?

We love it

Once you have determined where the nook will be, you’ll need to determine what it will be for. This is important when selecting furniture and accessories. Will you be reading, journaling, listening to music or napping? Choose your furniture pieces accordingly. For example, if this space will be for listening to music you will probably want a comfortable chair and a place for equipment.

3) Decorate your space

Babble

Allow your space to reflect your special interest. Decorate for the activity you will do most in this space. For example if you want a quiet reading nook you may also want to indulge in a cup of tea. This will require a small tea table next to your chair to place a cup of tea and your novel if necessary. Maybe you would like to have flowers in your space. What ever it is create a laundry list of things you’ll need to make that space cozy and comfortable for the perfect afternoon of solitude!

Do you have a nook in your home? What do you use your special and quiet space for?

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

Designer Resources-Where I like to shop

I’m often asked by clients where I like to shop. It really depends on the project and client, which may not always be what you want to hear. So many factors play into my decisions on designing a room, but ultimately it comes down to selecting products that fit into my design concept for that particular project. One of my favorite new resources for clients is Pure Home.

It is a site that offers my clients, and every day folks like you, the necessary tools to execute your project with ease. With just a few clicks they will ask you questions that help you figure out your style and colors with out the hassle of weeding through thousands of products that you probably shouldn’t be looking at or buying.

home_page_category_banner

Their process prevents you from being overwhelmed or buying unnecessary items by asking you questions ahead of time. This helps you understand your preferences and then directs you to the exact items that meet your needs. Awesome! You’ll know paint, furniture and accessories all with the click of a button. I love it when shops make our lives easier.

Another one of my new favorite crushes is Furbish. I love my interiors to have a mix of new and old so it feels collected. This shop gives me the ability to do just that. With a great mix of new and vintage pieces it’s easy to add that spunk to any interior with a pair of vintage candlesticks or a fun new rug from this site.

Furbish

[/caption]

This shop does require a little more expertise on creating that thing I like to call design magic. Without a plan you might end up buying the wrong thing, however, with that aside, it is the perfect place to cozy up your home with unique items that other places won’t have!

What are some of your favorite places to shop? DO you have a particular style that a particular online store caters to?

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

Quick Change-5 simple things to update your home for fall

It’s that time of year again. When the trees begin to turn, the foliage begins to thin out and the weather shifts from warm to cold. It is a magical time of year and according to most, probably their favorite time of year. The fall captures family and joyful memories for many people making it a great time to redecorate. Here are five quick and easy tricks to update your home for fall:

1) Pillows

Put summer brights into the closet and add pillows around your home in warm fall colors. Burnt orange, slate blues, earthy grays and warm golds are a great way to update your home quickly and easy. Such colors bring the out doors in and also give added comfort for the many nights in on cooler nights.

2) Quilts

Plush quilts are a great way to add warmth and color to your fall decorating scheme. Many quilts have wonderful patterns and add a feeling of comfort and “home” to a space in an instant. Choose quilts that have many fall colors but don’t necessarily match your everyday interiors.It is better to choose quilts that coordinate instead of match to give your space a more collected and homey feel, perfect for the holiday season.

3) Art

A quick and easy way to add fall color to your space is through inexpensive art. One of my favorite things to use for inexpensive art is paint chips. They are easy to find, and really versatile in all sorts of mediums. Whether you choose to completely frame them or apply them directly to canvas it is the easiest way to update your art and home with the feeling of fall.

4) Baskets

Seems like a simple thing, but adding baskets to your home adds warmth and functionality. Filled with blankets or easy reading like magazines, baskets add texture and an element of wood which is perfect during the winter months. Place them around the home in nooks, next to chairs or under tables.

5) Making Scents

Vintage White Milk Glass Hobnail Scalloped Decorative Bowl - Candy Dish

Etsy Dish

Take a decorative dish (like this one above, from Etsy) and create a wonderful DIY homemade air freshener. One of my favorites scents is peppermint but you can use any essential oil that creates an aroma that you love. For me, peppermint adds a fresh and invigorating smell that reminds me of the holidays. It is also safe for kids and pets!

AB Home’s Peppermint Dish

3 Tbsp Vodka (non flavored)

3 Tbsp vinegar

30-45 drops peppermint oil

Combine all ingredients in an attractive dish and place in living room, or any room that needs fragrance for an instant air freshener.

All simple and easy tips to update your home for fall. What are some of your favorite things you do to update your home for the holidays?

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

How to Brighten a Room With Color

Gone are the days of dark dreary interiors. When I first got into the design business fifteen years ago, everything was dark, oversized and glazed. The look was considered to be Mediterranean or European. That translated into a lot of dark reds, deep browns, heavy golds and fabrics with just as little buoyancy. I never thought I would dislike green until I painted so many sage walls that I wanted to puke. Lucky for us, that trend is gone. Todays interiors are bright, fresh and full of personality thanks to pops of crisp color. If you are slowly making your way out of the nineties and not sure where to start, here are some terrific examples of ways to brighten up your space with just a few easy steps.

1) Accent chairs

Chairs around the house, or dining room are a great way to add that punch of fruit flavors to your space.

This photo above is from Better Homes and Gardens. A very traditional space with oak table, original built-ins, and simple chandelier but painting it a crisp white adds the perfect backdrop for a sunkist orange fabric on the dining chairs. Instantly this space is transformed.

2) Fabric accents

Another great example from Better Homes and Gardens of an updated traditional space. Here the room houses a very traditional bedroom set, and soft robins egg blue walls.

Bridging the Gap

But add an accent of complimentary orange and peach and the room perks up immediately. A very inexpensive and quick fix that can be done to any room.

3) Bold Furniture Moves

This is by far the hardest decision to make for most clients…and often those are the risks with the biggest rewards!

When it comes to large furniture pieces take a risk and upholster them in something bold. Like this sofa above from House and Home, yellow completely makes the space, and dare I say makes you smile? Yellow is rarely a color used. It is typically gold or worse beige! Take that risk and you will be surprised at how happy it makes you! Perhaps your favorite color is Mint Green? Use it and uphoslter accordingly!

Don’t forget to visit us online at www.abhomeinteriors.com Find us on facebook or Twitter!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter, and receive our top tips on “How to accessorize and where to shop!” And be sure to register for my powerful FREE teleclass, 3 Design steps to a more Productive and Profitable Office.

Feng Shui 101 – A Beginner’s Guide

Feng Shui is ancient Chinese philosophy that can bring harmony and order in a person’s home. It is meant to promote positive energy, which can give a variety of great feelings. Applying it to one’s home can be done by anyone, if they just learn the basics! Here is a step-by step guide for those who haven’t got a clue where to start. You will see that it is not has hard as it seems, and you too can enjoy the advantage of integrating your #mce_temp_url# with your lifestyle.

Baqua Map, Tisha Morris

The Bagua Map
Before you can start, a Bagua map is needed. This map represents the eight areas of life: health, love, wealth, career, wisdom, reputation, children and people in your house.

You can make a Bagua map by first sketching your house’s shape. Common shapes for houses are rectangles, L-shapes and U-shapes. Your goal for the map is to have a rectangular or square sketch. For L-shaped and U-shaped houses, dotted lines are recommended and will represent missing areas.

After this, split the domain by thirds by evenly cutting it twice diagonally and horizontally. This will give a tic-tac-toe look. When done, you can mark the building blocks of life accordingly using the center as a basis.

- North is reputation
- North-East is love
- East is children
- South-East is helpful people
- South is career
- South-West is wisdom
- West is health
- North-West is wealth

Note that houses with several floors should have the plan started on the main level, and then the plan done for the next level and so on. To define the Bagua of the second floor, you should be working in the same orientation of the house’s front door – tracing paper can be useful for this.

Baqua house plan

Planning
Now that you have your Bagua map, you can start planning. The goal of Feng Shui is to have your décor represent the area of life for that room . For example, in rooms that represent health, you can put medicine or herbs.

Colors are a vital aspect in this form of design. Each area of life has colors associated with them.

- Career – Black, Blue and Brown
- Wisdom – Black, Blue and Green
- Health – Blue and Green
- Wealth – Blue, Red and Purple
- Reputation – Red
- Love – Red, Pink and White
- Children – White
- Helpful People – White, Gray & Black
- Center – Earth Tones

Have your furniture and decor match its respective color. This will ensure optimal positive energy. Also, consider its placement, a crucial aspect of Feng Shui, which needs to be comfortable but in line with the various rules – do a quick search before you place each item, because there are too many to list here!

Remove clutter
Once your plan is done, you can start removing your clutter. Clutter is the enemy for Feng Shui as it promotes disorder and stagnate energy. Ask yourself when was the last time you actually used each object in each room – many people consider a small investment in storage away from their home well-worth it if they can’t bear to throw away their excess items, but don’t want to have to face trying to hide too much stuff in their house!

Rearrange Your Home
If everything goes well, you will experience an environment of serenity and begin reaping the benefits of Feng Shui. It’s a fantastic project for a week long “staycation” if you want to save a bit of money on your vacation this year. Or maybe spend a few evenings to sort out your home – the benefits will be well-worth the effort.

Don’t forget to visit us online at www.abhomeinteriors.com Find us on facebook or Twitter!

Happy designing from Sarah – ex-interior designer turned blogger for a conservatories company in the UK.

Posted: July 20, 2012 by Amanda Gates |Filed Under: Feng Shui | design 101 | design tips | baqua map, beginners guide to feng shui, career sector, chi energy, feng shui, rearranging furniture 1 Comment AB Homes Interiors Blog

Colour-When Black Works

Black is one of the most dramatic colors you can add to your space. It instantly adds sophistication, drama and depth to any space. Not to mention, adds a perfect backdrop for any added color that is combined with it. Here are some fantastic examples of why black works:

Office in Black

Entrance hall

Nate Berkus Black

Moody bedroom

Perhaps a real letter?

No matter how you approach it, black is sexy. It instantly makes your space stylish and clean. It is also one of those back drops that has never gone out of style. In some form or fashion I have had black in every office, or interior of my own home for over 15 years. And if you review any old decorating magazines or books, black is always consistently shown. Use it, flirt with it, you’ll be amazed at how it will transform your space!

Find us on facebook or Twitter!!

Images: made by girl, 2, 3 Nate Berkus, tumblr, flourish and design

Recharging Your Batteries with Meditation

In my opinion (the one that counts) there are three elements that allow small shifts of transformation in our lives that make us better human beings: Inspiration, Expansion and Celebration. Inspiration is that illuminated spark within all of us that sits dormant and unrealized until something triggers it. It offers an instant refueling that drives you to act. Expansion is all about making that spark come alive. Freeing up the necessary space and doing whatever it takes to create that transformation that moves energy in unimaginable ways. When you move mountains, gain that clarity and fall into your place it’s cause for celebration because you’ve mastered the unconceivable task of making it happen.

Your home is a reflection of who you are to the core and of your conscience, whether you realize it or not. Too often many of us spend so much time in our default mode of judgement and negativity, getting sucked into expectations of those around us, that we never attain that sweet spot of absolute clarity. By arranging your space in the mental and physical body, along with your home you will promote spiritual and mental clarity with great reward.

One of the easiest ways to start your path of clarity is to live with intention. Intention moves energy, sets motion forward and keeps your eye on the prize. But in order to do that you need to create space to relax and work with that intention without distraction. The easiest way to do this is to add meditation to your life.

By simply taking a small space in your home you can create a space to gain mental clarity, relax your mind and set daily intentions for improvements. You will be amazed at the results. Allowing your mind to relax allows you to refuel, recharge and think better and if you lead a stressful and demanding job this is absolutely necessary!

Find us on facebook or Twitter!!

3 design techniques to increase your business’ bottom line

Office Design for the Future in one Easy Plan

By Amanda Gates, AB Home Interiors

Last month we spoke about “3 Simple Design Techniques Built to Improve Your Business’ Bottom Line.” I wanted to talk a little more about this subject as I really feel that it is important that your office space reflect your future and not your reality…

You are probably thinking ‘what the heck is she talking about’, so let me explain a little further. Many of us get stuck in a funk, if you will. We work day in and day out wondering when we will get our “big break.” The other day, someone said to me. “It took me years to be an overnight success.” Now think about that just for a minute. So many times we see successful people and from the surface it looks like they got there “overnight,” but that just is never the case and we forget that it takes much longer to reach our visions for our business than simply one day. But, continually as I work with successful entrepreneurs to redesign their office spaces, I hear the same things over and over. ‘I surrounded myself with what I wanted and didn’t dwell on where I was at any exact moment.’

Well, this got me to thinking…should the same not hold true with your office space? If you worked in an office space that “screamed” success, would you not feel more like a success? If you started making decisions from where you want to be rather than where you are right now, would you not work harder to quickly make that vision a reality? Next time you enter your office I want you to ask yourself, “does this look like the office of someone that is a success?” If not, do something about it. Remember the simplest changes can have you looking at your business in a whole new light.

If you would like some ideas or tips on how to give your office the aura of success then feel free to contact me for an on-line phone consultation where I can give you some quick tips and ideas that you can easily implement to change your office from drab to fab!!

If you’d like to receive this powerful FREE call, sign-up here to get instant access to it! I am sure that you will be as excited to hear this class as I was to offer it!! If you have any questions after listening to this class, please feel free to email me.

Find us on facebook or Twitter!!

DIY-Clever and Easy Ways to Update a Room

Every season sparks our creativity and different moods. It is human nature to want warmth and cozy interiors in the fall and fresh bright colors in the spring. So what can you do when you decide to redecorate but fall flat on ideas? Here are a few clever ideas I found on the web that are sure to get your creative juices flowing, and decorating efforts going in the right direction!

[/caption]

Paint your front door a fresh and fun new color. Excellent for welcoming guests, and gets the energy of your home revved up for good fortune. It also gets your guests excited to enter your home, and is a delight to their eyes. Don’t forget to add bright shiny hardware to give your door that extra bling!

Bright and floral chair

Front door fun

Reupholster one chair in the room you are decorating in a wildly fun print. It will completely change the look and feel in an instant. How amazing is this chair? Does it make you happy? Are the colors exciting? Yes and Yes! This would be a terrific addition to any room and will delight the eyes over and over making the room intoxicating and cheery.

[/caption]

Update, organize and paint your bookshelves. This is something I will be talking about in my teleclass this week. Organizing alone will make a huge impact in your space, but add accessories and color and it changes the look instantly. It is also a great way to quickly change for the seasons.

Book pages

Book shelves

Add book pages to one or all of your walls in the room you are decorating for creating conversation and texture. Such a simple and easy way to decorate. Not to mention inexpensive. Find a book with noteworthy quotes, or scenes and recite during a dinner party…or perhaps the guests have to determine the author or book name. Make it fun and engaging!

Whether you redecorate the entire room or simply make a few adjustments those little things make a big difference in how the room looks and feels. And if all else fails:

Find us on facebook or Twitter!!

And don’t forget to register for my upcoming teleclass: 3 Steps to a More Productive and Profitable office. It will be held THIS THURSDAY!

Design Steps to a More Productive & Profitable Office, register HERE

images: tiny white daisies, Dying of cute,House Beautiful, Denise McGaha, By wilma

5 Ways to Brighten up a Dark Room

Is your home surrounded by trees and large foliage, making it cool in the summer, but also leaving your rooms feeling dark and gloomy? Do you have a favorite, small room that suffers from having only one window? Perhaps you live in a downstairs apartment whose only windows are located above eye level.

AB Home Interiors

Dark rooms like these are a decorator’s challenge, to be sure, but you don’t have to live with a dark and somber room. Afraid that brightening your room is going to be too expensive? Think again. Here are five, tried and true (and affordable) ways to lighten up any room:

1. Add greenery. A few plants or flowering bushes in pots add a bright and lively air to even the dingiest room. Stick with plants that thrive in limited light, such as spider plants, ferns, snake plants and flowering bromeliads. Combine these interesting shapes for a dramatic effect.

2. Reflect a bit. Mirrors trick the eye into thinking that a room is larger than it really is. Plus, they take a little light and magnify it ten-fold. Is your room narrow? Consider adding a floor-to-ceiling mirror at the end of the room. Most glass retailers will cut mirrors to order or you can also use mirrored tiles from a big box home improvement store. Is your decor more traditional? Scour estate and yard sales for a large mirror in a gilded frame for a more formal approach.

AB HOME Interiors

3. Paint it white. Though often mocked (unfairly, we think) as being suited only for apartment living, white walls add a fresh, bright look to any room and make the most of the light that you have. Paint is also one of the least expensive ways to redecorate. A gallon of white paint costs around $30, and even less if you wait for a good sale.

4. Control the clutter. We all have clutter. Those knick knacks that you collect on vacation, piles of books you intend to read, craft projects waited to be started. However, clutter makes a room seem more closed in and dark. Banish all but a few, well-chosen items to drawers or cabinets. Plus, be mindful of adding new items to your newly brightened room. Clutter can sneak up on you.

AB HOME Interiors

5. Limit the furniture. Dark, wooden furniture, while attractive, can darken a room and make it feel smaller than it actually is. Avoid over-furnishing your rooms. Instead, choose one exquisite piece to be the focal point and surround it with lighter-colored, less-substantial accent pieces. And, contrary to what your father might tell you, don’t be afraid to paint wooden furniture white or other light and bright colors. A garage sale chest of drawers or bookcase with a coat of ivory paint can become an attractive–and bright–place to store linens, books or hobby items.

Don’t resign yourself to living in a dark space. Brightening up a room doesn’t have to break your budget. Plan carefully, add a little paint, and limit the pieces you add to the room. Your dark dungeon will be transformed into a light and airy retreat in no time.

Find us on facebook or Twitter!! Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter, and receive our top tips on “How to accessorize and where to shop!”

Elli, a writer for your local security She was born and raised in Colorado and now enjoys skiing, playing tennis, and hiking in the mountains of Salt Lake City, Utah.

How to choose a light fixture

Given the vast variety of lighting fixtures available on the market today finding the right one can seem difficult, and overwhelming. Whether you’re building a new home or remodeling an exisiting one there are three things you should always keep into consideration when shopping for a lighting fixture.

1) Fixture type

Depending on the application and needs of your space you could require a surface mount, a semi-flush mount, chandelier, track, recessed or cove lighting. Sometimes it may call for three or more. Determine how much light you need for the activity of that space, because the primary consideration when choosing lighting is the beam pattern and how that fixture distributes light for your needs.

2) Size Matters

Barrington Oil Rubbed Bronze Lighting by Feiss

Fixtures will often seem smaller in the store because the showrooms are quite large. Always take measurements to make sure the size and scale will work with the space you are working on. Scale is incredibly important when choosing light and this is an area that most people error on the small side making the room look off. Many manufacturers offer fixtures in a couple of sizes so ask your designer or sales associate about the options that are available that can work for you.

3) Cost

Feiss: Decorative Chandeliers, Lamps, Outdoor Lighting, Bath Lighting

Lighting can get expensive, but remember how important it really is and remember to consider it’s energy consumption. The initial cost may seem pricey but the electric bills will prove otherwise. Choose lighting that works well for your space, is energy efficient and is low maintenance.

What are some of your struggles with lighting?

Find us on facebook or Twitter!!

And don’t forget to register for my upcoming teleclass: 3 Steps to a More Productive and Profitable office.

Design Steps to a More Productive & Profitable Office, register HERE

Feiss, All pics by murray feiss

4 Solutions to Everyday Decorating Problems

Most homes are not absolutely perfect. The good news is every room has a decorating solution to make it work. When designing a room there are four things to consider and implement to guarantee what I call design magic. It’s kinda like fairy dust, only better!

1) Center of interest

Center of Interest

For those of you in the business world you are familiar with the term Center of Influence, or COI. In decorating it is very important to have a focal point, or Center of Interest. Create drama around one area of your room and arrange your furniture to draw attention to it. The Center of Interest can be a fireplace, a garden view, or a lovely picture arrangement (shown above). What ever it is, establish to your guests that it is important.

2) Scale and harmony

Scale and Harmony

Always plan for your furnishings to be in scale of one another. I have written about scale before and it is one of the most important tools when decorating. A home with perfect scale feels harmonious. Mix heavy items around the room and never plop them on one side of a space or it will feel off. Furnishings should be similar in size and shape and accessories should be big. Less is always more and as I always say: GO BIG OR GO HOME.

3) Traffic patterns

Traffic Flow

When creating your space always take into consideration the flow of traffic. There are always obvious ways that people will flow through a room so arrange furniture accordingly like I have done in the photo above. It needs to be harmonious to conversation, and it shouldn’t interrupt the flow of traffic. When decorating a room with multiple entrances it is wise to create smaller groupings for more intimate and comfortable spaces. And never block an entrance with a piece of furniture unless there is no other choice, or their is an alternate route to and from that space.

4) Multi task

Multi tasking day of install

Multi tasking details

With my tendency towards catching the A.D.D bug I don’t recommend multi-tasking unless it is reference to your decorating. But when you are blessed with a large room make it earn its’ square footage price. Arrange furniture so games, dining, writing, entertaining, TV viewing, or reading can all take place effortlessly. The room above ( sorry for quality of photos they are from my phone!) is an example of multi-tasking. And if you follow the three rules above, this will be the best room in the house!

Need help with your next decorating project? Want your home to be stylish yet functional and bring you ultimate happiness? Call my office today to book a phone consultation for Virtual Interior Design that will change the way you live and think about your home. Contact me @ info@abhomeinteriors.com or call me @ 615-750-2763.

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

Posted: March 9, 2012 by Amanda Gates |Filed Under: accessorizing | design tips | focal point | decorating solutions, focal points, scale and harmony, traffic flow Leave a Comment AB Homes Interiors Blog

Decorating Your Home-Get everything to flow in three easy steps

It’s one of those things that makes or breaks a home. When things feel consistent you easily glide from one room to another and everything just seems right in the world. Your energy feels great, your mood elevated and the house…well it’s elevated too because it’s energy circulates delicious flow. That happy feeling creates ease and seamless movement through your home because of Chi. All of our homes consist of Chi, a philosophy from Feng Shui that every person, place and thing are alive and need appropriate flow to feel right.

When a home has a different theme in each room, different colors, clutter and no consistency it is very jarring. The energy is disrupted and the occupants and guests can’t quite get their bearing’s. You may fidget, feel tired, or anxious and not know why. In order to create flow in your home it is necessary that you remove or organize the clutter. Being organized allows you to feel “together.” It is also necessary to surround yourself with things of meaning, not just random tchotchke’s that you purchased on sale because the price was right. Here are three things to help you get the flow you need now:

1) Get rid of the clutter

De-clutter your life. If you haven’t seen it, worn it, or used it in over a year, donate it. Get rid of the various paper paraphernalia that we all have…and think we need but really don’t. Clutter holds stagnate energy and bogs us down. We feel heavy around it and it often makes a room feel bulky. If one room is somewhat together and the adjacent room is a complete disaster it will make the space feel unbalanced, ultimately disturbing the flow.

2) Color

Add New Post ‹ AB Home Interiors — WordPress

There are no rules to how many colors you can have in a house or a room…but if done incorrectly it can lead to disaster. There is a billion dollar industry designed for color and professionals who specialize in it because it is based on psychology and complex science. Color affects our mood, it can uplift us or depress us so it shouldn’t be taken lightly. Choose your colors wisely, and make sure they coordinate with what you currently own, the structure of your home and the other rooms of the house. If any one thing can make an immediate impact on the flow of your home, it’s color!

3) Furnishings

Untitled 2

Your investment pieces should be similar in style and shape from room to room. Whether that is through color, fabric, or actual style of furniture it helps pull each room together. It is a term I call “cross pollinating”. The two rooms above are adjacent to one another. Standing in the entrance if you look to your left you see dining, and to your right you see library. I have pulled these rooms together with similar style of furniture and color. The lines are the same and there is an easy flow between the two spaces. They just make sense and they have beautiful flow.

Need help with your next decorating project? Want your home to be stylish yet functional and bring you ultimate happiness? Call my office today to book a phone consultation that will change the way you live and think about your home. Contact me @ info@abhomeinteriors.com or call me @ 615-750-2763.

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

How to Plan the Perfect Party

Planning a party can be stressful. Many hosts take it upon themselves to over do it, (shooting for Martha Stewart perfection) that results in unnecessary stress and three days worth of recovery. Parties are meant to be festive and FUN! Instead of wearing yourself out and eyeballing the chaise lounge, put together a loose plan (or as I like to do: Shoot from the hip) and stop aiming for perfection. Most guests like a little structure, but when things go wrong or not at all, be honest and run with it…..besides those are often the best parties!

1) Why are you having a party?

Typically there is a reason for the party. Choose a theme or main entree and plan the festivities and dishes around it. For instance, New Years is coming up in just a few days and that can be your theme to kick off the direction of your party.

What is your WHY?

2) Keep it Simple

Choose recipes that are easy to prepare, or already prepared from the store. It is also helpful to choose recipes that can be made one or two days before the event, like these cucumber feta rolls. All the ingredients can be pre-made ahead of time and then assembled the day of the event. Easy to make, beautiful color, and super delicious.

3) Consider eye appeal

Colorful foods, such as red or orange vegetables, add instant eye appeal to your party. They can also coordinate with the festivities! Remember parties are more about the EXPERIENCE, so make it memorable with fun decor, good scents, and colorful food.

4) Prepare a list Create a list of everything you will need and buy 4-7 days before the event. Try to have at least three to five small bites, and offer tea, water, wine and if the festivities call for it, Champagne! Tea and water are simple, and water can be infused with citrus, and cucumbers to delight the taste buds. (Also steps up your game and makes your event look fancy) Having a plan saves you from the added stress of having to make last-minute dashes to the store.

5) Find ways to Add Charm

Find small ways to add charm to your event. For example, use mason jars in new ways, offer straws with bottle soda, use mismatched china from the flea market…whatever it is, use it to add to your party!

What are some of your favorite party tricks?

Ready to get your room started? Need some help? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

images: Erin ever after, good life eats, martha stewart, she knows living, I love honey lace

Posted: December 30, 2011 by Amanda Gates |Filed Under: design tips | Entertaining, how to entertain, How to Plan the Perfect Party, parties, planning a party 3 Comments AB Homes Interiors Blog

Lighting-A how-to guide to chandeliers

Houzz writer Shoshanna Goslin recently wrote an article on how to hang a chandelier, featuring one of my most glamourous dining rooms. My inbox was flooded from readers wanting to know everything from the brand of the chandelier to questions about exact dimensions. Lighting as I have said can make or break a space. When purchasing a chandelier there are 2 rules you must always follow.

1) Scale

Incorrect scale and correct scale

You know my motto: GO BIG OR GO HOME. Never purchase a chandelier that is small and wispy. Lighting is critical in a dining room. It is all about setting a mood. As the photo shows on the left, this whispy chandelier disappears. In such a large room with deep saturated color, this chandelier needs more depth, contrast and sparkle in order to work, something that this chandelier has none of!

My photo on the right has everything going for it. The perfect size, height and scale appropriate for this dining room. More importantly, the lighting is efficient. Always take into consideration the paint color, size of table, and formality of the room. Once those are determined always err to the larger side, ALWAYS! It provides better scale and better lighting.

2) Height

Incorrect height and correct height

Don’t hang your chandelier at a height that puts it into orbit above the table. It ends up in an abyss of space that is in no way related to the dining area. The light has two functions: Decorative and Functional. Putting it too high takes away from both. Always hang the chandelier 27″-36″ above the table, period. This adds beauty to the space and allows appropriate lighting of the table.

3) Options

Options

You can’t always find a chandelier that meets the size requirements for your table or room. In fact a lot of my clients fall in love with chandeliers that on their own would never work, but when doubled they instantly look beautiful. Installing two chandeliers instead of one will add to the scale of the light fixture, add drama and provides ample lighting.

Shades

Another trick to bulk up your chandelier: add shades. In the very first example above (under scale), the photo on the left displays a wispy iron chandelier with exposed lights. In my opinion the chandelier is still too small, but adding shades would bulk up the scale and instantly make it more noticeable in the room. A quick easy fix that wouldn’t cost a lot. Shades are easy to find and come in a myriad of colors, shapes, textures and fabrics.

What do you love most about chandeliers?

Ready to get your room started? Need some help? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

images: archithings, decoration ideas

Posted: December 9, 2011 by Amanda Gates |Filed Under: chandelier | design tips | buying a chandelier, chandelier, chandelier scale, chandelier size, hanging chandelier, lighting fixtures 1 Comment AB Homes Interiors Blog

Apartment therapy series

Over the past couple of years I have had the opportunity to decorate many apartments. In big cities like New York, apartment living is considered the norm. However, in smaller cities, being a homeowner is typically the norm. But the economy as it is, some people have lost their homes, some have moved across the country in search of jobs and others travel over state lines to work and have a place to stay. Some clients have gone through a divorce and are getting back on their feet. Whatever the reason, apartments today offer many amenties that a lot of previous home owners can really get used to. Fully equipped gyms, movie rooms, beautiful pools, lush landscaping, churning waterfalls, and if that wasn’t enough, many offer pet care, dry cleaning and housekeeping services!

I think it’s safe to say that apartment living is not what it used to be! A time when you should be a so called “home owner” according to society, the idea of living in an apartment after 35 no longer holds a stigma of a life gone no where. Nope, in fact many people I know, no longer want the responsibility of owning a home and are now opting for a luxurious life in a lavish apartment. I have to admit, the convenience alone and ease of living is quite appealing.

Today I kick off Apartment therapy, our newest series! My inbox has been flooded with readers glued to our remodeling series, but disappointed that many of the options shown are not available to their own circumstances. In an effort to help those living in apartments, this series will appeal to you, and the many decorating options you have!

So stay tuned, next week I kick off Mrs M’s Nashville apartment redo!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

Style secrets from our Southern Living show house design team

The design team is in full swing at the Southern Living show house and I wanted to get the inside scoop on some of their best ideas,and tricks! Ever wonder what goes on in the mind of a designer? Ever wonder what their approach to a project is? As designers we all have different philosophies and opinions on what makes a space unique and special. But put all of us in one house and soon you’ll find that we all follow very similar ideologies. Thursday I sat down with three of the designers from the Southern Living show house to get some of their best designer secrets and trade tips.

Jerome Farris

from Peddler Interiors is decorating the show house living room.

Jamali Southern Living Showhouse

1) What is the best investment when designing a home? “Original Art is THE investment that makes YOUR space an Original! Against the calming neutrals of this Showhouse, original works by renowned Artists such as Jamali provide that all-important “wow factor.” Bold statements in art define the tone of a room and tell the story of who it’s owners are! Always buy the best art you can afford as these pieces become valuable investments both financially and emotionally to be handed down throughout the years.” ~ Jerome Farris

He doesn’t know it yet, but Jerome and I are going to be best friends. For those of you who read my blog regularly, all I do is rant and rave about the importance of art, and how it transforms a space. Art truly is the best investment you can make in your home!

2) What is Jerome’s philosophy on being an interior designer? “No successful design is achieved without time and careful research. You must take time to physically discover fabrics, accessories, and furnishings that reflect originality and that will remain unique to your space. No client wants to invest in decor they may also find at their friends’ homes.” ~ Jerome Farris

3) How did you come up with the design of your space? “While the basic elements of the showhouse living room are each neutral in color, careful attention to diverse material selection is a must. Velvets, linens, metal, glass and wood must all mingle successfully to achieve texture and depth. The way these selections blend are what makes the design interesting and unique.” ~Jerome Farris

Dana Tucker and Brooks Tucker

from Bella Tucker Decorative Finishes are doing the Southern Living show house’s powder bath floor, the range hood, a ceiling in the girl’s bedroom, a custom concrete overlay patterned finish on the floor of the covered porch and the entrance to the guest retreat. Here she offers up their best tips from a painters perspective:

Bella-Tucker Decorative finishes

1) What are some great tricks with paint when designing a space? “When painting, don’t forget the ceiling. Ceilings are another opportunity to introduce a little drama into a room. If you want the ceiling color to be the same color as the walls, in most cases you will need to cut the color by 1/2 strength since paint tends to look darker on a ceiling. Choosing a color that is a few shades darker than your wall color can drop the ceiling a little. Choosing a few shades lighter will elevate a ceiling. Adding pattern and texture to a ceiling will add warmth and depth and complete a custom look.” ~Dana Tucker

2) What are some great tricks to make walls a little more custom? For a completely custom look consider designing your own custom wallpaper. This can be done with a stencil, paints of the same color with varying sheens, metallic paints, and texture mediums. There are lots of great tutorials on the web. Here is a recent one from Rosemary on the TV” ~Dana Tucker

3) Any new products on the market that we must know about? “There is a new paint on the market revolutionizing the furniture painting category. It’s called Annie Sloan Chalk Paint. It comes in 24 colors and it is perfect for furniture because it does not require a primer and it distresses beautifully. The only thing standing between you and a beautiful swedish, parisian or shabby chic look is a creative eye, a quart of chalk paint, and a lovely piece of furniture.” ~Dana Tucker

Caroline Weigel

from Castle Homes, designing the kitchen for the Southern Living Show case home

Castle Kitchen

1) Why is the kitchen so important to a home? For many families the kitchen is the center or “hub” of family life, serving as a place not only to prepare food and dine, but to read mail, do homework or catch up with friends over a glass of wine. With so much living happening in today’s kitchens, it’s important that the room’s design is both functional and inviting.

2) What are some things to consider when designing a kitchen? If you’re building your dream kitchen or remodeling your current one start with the layout, considering appliance choices and positioning. You want to create a functional work triangle with your range, refrigerator and sink. Also, consider what views you want from your kitchen. When you’re standing at the sink do you want to see the kids playing in the next room or would you like to look out your window.

3) What is one of your best weapons? Never underestimate the importance of good lighting. It can make or break a room. Consider the many different ways you can introduce lighting into your kitchen. Consider task lighting which can mean under-cabinet or pendant lights, ambient lighting which sets the mood of the room and could be a grand chandelier or a funky art piece, and general lighting which typically means recessed or ceiling lights.

I really cannot agree more! I would like to thank the designers for taking the time to chat with me on their best trade secrets!

What are some of your favorite designer tricks?

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Ready to get your room started? Need some help? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!ks?

The show will be open Oct 22-Nov 6. For more info click here

Posted: September 9, 2011 by Amanda Gates |Filed Under: accessorizing | design 101 | design tips | ab home interiors, amanda burdge, art, Cool Springs designer, lighting, paint, Southern living magazine, Southern Living Nashville TN, Southern living showcase home 7 Comments AB Homes Interiors Blog

Laundry rooms-The DIY cure to organize them, and keep them tidy

Let’s face it, we have to do laundry. As much as all of us can attest to hating one of the most basic and utilitarian household chores, it’s a necessary evil. Most clients that I work with never touch this space. Furnishing it as if it were lucifers closet, the laundry room truly gets the least amount of love and dollars. And rarely does it get any weekend DIY consideration. Poor thing. The good news is, when this space is fun and efficient it makes doing the wash less of a chore and more of an enjoyable space. Really!

I am always talking about energy and how our homes should uplift and rejuvenate us. If you leave your home in a flurry with dirty dishes, an unmade bed , toiletries all over the house and a pile of laundry everywhere, you hardly want to rush back home. My point? (Yes I do have one), when you leave your home in a frenzied mess, you come home to a frenzied mess. Same goes for the laundry room. When you enter that space with disgust and loathing, it hardly makes for a fun chore. Every time you enter that space you are already geared up for the worst! So how can you get out of the laundry room blues? Get out a can of paint, get rid of the clutter and get organized. Heres some great DIY tips to save your Laundry room from disgust and loathing, to pleasing and delightful! Heres my tips to get it organized and efficient:

1) Color coded laundry bins

Color coded laundry

Simplicity is key here. Use a light bin for white laundry, a black bin for darks, and a red bin for delicates. This example above by My Antique Barn is a perfect example. She took three antique flour bins and converted them into laundry room work horses; DIY magic!

My entire world is organized by color. Everyone in my office knows if they want me to participate in any admin responsibilities, they have to first speak my language. What most people don’t realize is that organization is a fairly simple practice to follow. Especially if initiated early on and everyone is programmed. But too often the Martha Stewarts of the world make it too difficult and way more arduaous than it needs to be. Keep it simple and simply organized and you’ll have great success.

2) Arrange your products accordingly

Cleaning supplies

laundry room cleaning products

We all know the term, “birds of a feather, flock together”. Keep this in mind when organizing your cleaning supplies. Keep detergents, softeners, stain treatments, household cleaners, what ever it is you like to use, keep them in close proximity of each other. Having detergent in one place and softener in another doesn’t make sense. Button up your efficiency and keep like-minded products together. Make your laundry room work for you.

I prefer open shelving for items I grab daily or weekly. Another great tip from Real Simple, line your items up according to how you use them. If aesthetics are a high priority, place the items in an area that is easy for you to use, won’t hinder your efficiency, and meets your visual needs. I used to transfer all my liquids to pretty bottles. But honestly, we all use these products, so if you have a few of them on a shelf it won’t be the end of the world. Plus I tend to make a lot of my own cleaning products so the bottles tend to be pretty basic.

3) Folding tables

Laundry room folding table

Every laundry room needs a place to fold. Probably the most arduous thing about laundry is the many steps it requires….folding being one of them (This is probably where the loathing and disgust come from). Once the laundry is complete, it has to be folded. Always create an area to fold your laundry with ease, and make sure the counter surface is at least 36″ high. If you have a family of four and your counter is below 36″, you will strain your back and wear yourself out. If you don’t have space for a folding table, keep an ironing board in a handy place. It can double as a surface and be neatly put away when not in use, like the one shown above.

[/caption]

Another great tip. If you have the room, devote a laundry basket to every member of the household. When their laundry is folded they can come get it, instead of you having to go to every room of the house to drop it off. Put labels on the baskets with their names on it. If you are a DIY connoisseur, you can make bins out of fabric to coordinate with your beautiful new laundry room.

4) Drying racks

Laundry drying area

Laundry bins

An area to hang up delicates is always preferable in a laundry room. I typically hang everything I own to preserve the life of the garment. The best thing is to choose something that works for you and your lifestyle. So whether you choose to have a garment rack or an area devoted for hanging several pieces, always include a portion of space for drying outside of the dryer. If you are limited on space but need a space to hang up your clothes (outside of the treadmill or strung all over the house, Urban clothes line has many options to choose from, whether you have 2 feet of space or 2″ of space. Another wonderful DIY option is to take an old ladder and hang it from the ceiling.

5) Seating

Large laundry room

[/caption]

If you are lucky enough to have the ample space, a seating area in a laundry room can be quite utilitarian. It is a great place to plop down to sew on buttons that need repair, fold in comfort, or a place to relax and read a book while the dryer finishes. It creates a more inviting environment, and makes the space more homey and less chore oriented.

What are some of your best tips for organizing your laundry room?

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Ready to get your room started? Need some help? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

Images: My antique barn, real simple, houzz, all doing,#mce_temp_url#, the inspired room,

Outdoor entertaining-fabulous tips for the ultimate party

It’s the middle of August, and there is no better way to celebrate summer than with an outdoor party with friends. It’s hot and we are lethargic, and nothing soothes that summer heat better than a cool drink,( martini anyone?) and tasty B-B-Q! Outdoor entertaining is fun, so people are turning the televisions off, hooking up with friends and neighbors and enjoying the cool summer nights together. Outdoor entertaining is easy, and requires very little,( a motto and philosophy we at AB HOME love!) One of our favorite quotes from Real Simple,

“A successful dinner party doesn’t demand anything elaborate-just simple food, good company, and a convivial setting”

I love entertaining and I especially love entertaining outdoors. SO what are some things you can do to bring the party out side? Here are a few of my tips for entertaining outdoors:

1) Outdoor rooms:

[/caption]

Outdoor furniture is wildly popular and can be found just about anywhere. Summer Classics is one of my favorites. But why not bring out a couple of chairs from the dining room or an old sofa from the basement? Buy inexpensive slipcovers in white, (Target has a great selection), and bring those peices outdoors. It creates a more intimate and cozy feeling to your soiree. White is a great back drop for any setting and can easily be dressed up for any style or occasion. It’s unexpected and super fun.

2) Lights

Outdoor lighting

Bring the indoors out

Never underestimate the power of lighting. Hang an old chandelier from an oak tree and light it up with candles, or have your skilled electrician convert the wiring to an outdoor plug. Put floating candles in the pool, string lights up through the trees, or take a strand of lights and use it as garland around the fence. You can never have too many lights and trust me, you can never have too many candles. Lights add whimsy and magic to the event and create a beautiful intoxicating mood.

Designer tip: Turn off any security features like motion sensitive flood lights. Nothing kills a mood like flood lamps hitting your eyes every time you run to the bathroom!

3) Comforts of home

[/caption]

Many parties start in the afternoon and continue through to late evening. Outdoor entertaining is all about the comforts of home. Relaxing, laughing and enjoying good food. Don’t spoil the magic because you weren’t prepared. Have bug spray handy (I often keep it in the bathroom, in a basket on the counter), soft throws for your guests to snuggle up in, decaf coffee, soft music, anything you think they might need, have it on hand. When entertaining make your guests feel comfortable and welcomed. The more accessible these items are, the more they will feel at home. Often people don’t like to ask for things. They feel it is too much to ask, and they will either leave or suffer. That isn’t a memorable experience. Have all of these items on there own buffet table, in the bathroom, or in an area that encourages them to grab what they need without regret.

4) Dinnerware

Outdoor dining

Comforts of home

Just like bringing out a few upholstered pieces of furniture, I love using real dishes outside. Yes it’s not practical, they need to be cleaned but a mismatched set of china combined with old stemware is romantic and decadent. Life is too short, live it up and enjoy the simple pleasures of life! Take a trip to your local flea market and gather up beautiful mismatched dishes and stemware that work perfectly with your outdoor space. You’ll be amazed at how happy it makes you!

5) Cloth napkins and silverware

[/caption]

Always use cloth napkins, even if it’s simple B-B-Q or hamburgers. If there are children at the event you can provide paper napkins for them to use, but the juxtaposition of formal-rustic is a good tug and pull for outdoor entertaining. It is more inviting, and they work a hell of a lot better than those napkins with seasonal prints that work as good as a plastic bag. Cloth linens are easy to find and not expensive. If you are concerned about stains, go for a black or brown option. Same goes for silver ware. Pick up an inexpensive set like this one from amazon, if you don’t want to use your every day stuff. It is more civilized and enjoyable. Guests will often sit longer and enjoy themselves rather than bolting for the door. Include them in the clean-up. Most guests are happy to help. It’s not the end of the party destination that counts, its the journey through the evening that should be enjoyed…even cleaning dishes!

6) Flowers

Outdoor flowers

Outdoor entertaining

Always include fresh cut flowers on the buffet table, dining table, in the bathroom-where ever your guests will be. They are pleasant and uplifting and suit the festivities perfectly. Outdoor entertaining is all about the outdoors! Not sure how to put your arrangements together? Click on Mondays easy tips for arranging. Keep it simple and easy. The more simple you can make it the more charming and delightful the arrangements are to your guests.

images: room-galleries, outdoor lighting, apartment therapy, the brides cafe, hellow lucky

Random but clever tricks for the home

Clever tricks from harley the guru

We all love good tips. And we all love clever tricks that make our lives easier….so here are some random things I found that I think you humans will love.

[/caption]

Easy DIY for the laundry room. Hang a ladder upside down for an easy place to hang delicate’s.

Paint sticks

Hanging ladder

Use stir sticks to recall your paint colors. Write paint name and number on the end of the stick, along with what you painted. Bundle the sticks with twine and store in a utility closet. By Martha Stewart.

[/caption]

Chalk wall with inspirational quotes. For those of you who read my blog frequently, you know how much I believe in a positive and inspirational home. A home that supports you, uplifts you. Having a wall with inspirational quotes like “Don’t worry everything is going to be amazing!” is a great way to start and end your day.

Photo runner

Chalk wall

Great for a family reunion or anniversary, a table runner made of photos is a great way to decorate for the festivities and get the conversations started.

What are some randow but clever tricks you use around the home?

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

images: unknown, Martha Stewart, sweet home style, rizy bee

How to update your home without the cost of adding on

According to this article by STL today, in order to get the best return on your home there are five remodeling projects that get you the most bang for your buck. But like most cities, Nashville is a city with a lot of history, style and small homes. Maxwell coffee started here, Vanderbilt’s, and of course, country music. At the turn of the century many every day folks lived in wonderfully small bungalows, not in the suburbs where many of today’s urbanites find sprawling square footage! Thankfully, because of our history we have some of the most quaint neighborhoods and homes that I have ever seen. Edgehill, Sylvan park, 12 South, Berry hill, Downtown Franklin, just to name a few. Several of my client’s live in these beautiful areas, and they take pride in their wonderfully small bungalows. But how do you maximize and update a cracker jack lifestyle, two kids, and a dog when trying to salvage your homes original charm? It’s hard to imagine a massive remodel, that includes exploding that home’s charm out into the garden, just to suit the needs of your 21st century lifestyle. So what do you do if you live in a smaller space and a remodel is not an option? Heres how to get an update without the cost of adding on!

1) Taller doors

Tall doors

Taller doors give the illusion of more space in your home. Have you ever walked into a small family room that had vaulted ceilings? Often, when there is added height, the space creates it’s own optical illusion and you don’t feel cramped. Same goes for the doors. Taller doors give you the illusion that there is more space, and they also allow more light to flood into the space. An added bonus is painting them something special. Like the photo above, this home’s kitchen is very small, however, the beautifully tall, GREEN, doors take your attention away from the obvious, and makes the space spectacular! Here is a great place to find stylish doors, that are tall and affordable.

Designer tip: Can’t afford to replace and remodel your doors from 6’8 to 8′? Add pediments, antique windows or mirrors above your doors. It will give you the added affect, and won’t break the break.

2) Raise the drapes

Tall drapes

Just like raising the doors, raise your drapes all the way up to the bottom of the crown. Drapes add softness to a space, and draw your eye upward. For additional illusion select colors for your walls, trim and drapes in a similar color.

Designer tip: Add features to the top of your drapes like grommets, ribbon, or buttons. The added texture creates shadowing and more weight to the top of the drape.

3) Extended cabinets

Taller cabinets

Instead of choosing the ever-popular and standard 42″ upper cabinet, opt for the 36″ cabinet and top it with a 12″ upper with glass. As with the drapes and doors, it extends the eye up and the glass adds sparkle. The 12″ uppers can have lights placed inside them, grabbing the eyes attention with light. It is a great way to display some of your more special china, and also makes your space look more custom.

Designer tip: Already have a good kitchen in place and not about to remodel your kitchen? Paint your ceiling the same color as your wall, and add rope lighting or LED ribbon to the top of your cabinets. It will be harder for the eye to discern where the wall and ceiling meet, and the lights will help expand the space up.

4) Mirrors

Vintage mirrors

Mirrors add sparkle, grab and bounce light, and reflect objects from different angles. They are superb weapons for a small space.

Designer tip: You can never have enough mirrors!

5) Rug

Small Rug

Instead of choosing a small rug, go for the largest one that your room can fit. The photo above is a great example, by Southern Living, on making a too small rug, work.

Large rug

Many homeowners want to put a small rug in their small room, for fear of covering the floors! Above, this photo is a great example of extending the eye with a sisal rug, and then adding color and texture with a beautiful hide. If the rug option you have is too small for the room, layer it with one or two rugs to add texture and color. Otherwise the eye will only devote attention to the rug thats in a small room.

What are some of your favorite tricks?

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

images: houzz, kitchen cabinets, elements of style, simply seductive, emily clarke

Remodeling series-Week 10

Before I left for Atlanta, Richie and I had a meeting at my office to discuss the upcoming week of events for the bathroom. ( he has a tendency to get crazy when unsupervised) and I don’t want to come back to a pink bathroom that’s been moved to the opposite side of the house. We determined that he’d be doing a dry run of the tile for the floor, laying the radiant floor and hooking up the floor thermostat. The biggest issue is what to do with the most noticeable corner in the bathroom:

Bathroom corner

1) To butte or miter, that is the question

If the opposite side of the bathroom lined up with the tile design, (as I drew it above) there wouldn’t be an issue. But the two points are actually 20″ apart. OY! So the question is, do we make it a butte joint, or a miter? Well my first instinct was to blurt out, MITER! But of course, it wasn’t that easy. The tile border is being cut down from 24″ pieces, into 6″x24″ strips. Laying tile doesn’t follow the philosophy of fuzzy math, that I commonly stand behind. The pieces are not long enough to create a clean miter, so in order to miter the corner we need to make an extension with a 6″x6″ piece…..UM, Huh? Mrs Burdge,…..You say….I din’t get that! See below:

Major bathroom corner

Butte joint or miter

The decision to be made? To butte joint (shown in pink) or miter (shown in black). The strips don’t match up, so we either cut them down for the butte joint, or create a mitered corner from a 6″x6″ piece.The decision we choose will be revealed next week. Oh the suspense! Can you stand it?

2) Tile layout, pre-run

So Richie continued with his dry run lay out, to get all his cuts, and make sure there were no other hiccups. Here is a sneak peek: ( Fill in oooooo’s, and awwwwwww’s here!

Dry run

3) Radiant flooring

OK, back to the regularly scheduled program. Before the tile can be laid, Richie has to put down the radiant floors. What’s that you say? Well it’s this fancy orange stuff that is essentially a heated blanket under your tile. It makes your footsies feel warm and fuzzy in the middle of winter when it’s coldy. Pretty awesome!

Warm and fuzzies

This will be hard wired into the electrical, and Mrs S will be able to control the thermostat via a remote control panel that hangs on the wall. Purty cool!

4) Cabinet vanity

Along with tile, we made final decisions on the vanity and it will go into production next week.

Mrs S bathroom vanity

There are a few things that have been tweaked and changed from this drawing, but this gives you the general idea! And I am ready to get this built. I feel like this imaginary box of wood with pretty detail and paint has been floating around in my head for months. I am ready to SEE it!

There you have it, week 10! So what do you think so far? Think you’re ready to remodel? Not quite as fast as they make it on those home decorating shows now is it? haha, stay tuned!

If you missed week one, click here.

If you missed week two, Click here

If you missed week three, click here

If you missed week four and five, click here

If you missed week six, click here

Have questions? See something that you want more clarification on? Send me your comments and let us know your thoughts. We will post questions and answers here on the blog.

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

If you missed week seven, click here

If you missed week eight, click here

If you missed week nine, click here!

Remodeling series-Week 9

We are on the home stretch for all you weary homeowners…….and that includes Mrs S! This week the tile installation was continued, the electrical fired up and the first coat of paint went up. Exciting times! This is when all those daunting decisions finally start coming into fruition. Picking colors, tiles, and what seems like infinite details from objects less than 3″ in size, can really make a person go insane! Not to mention, question every little decision. Will that tiny piece of wall tile coordinate with that basket weave floor tile? Does the cabinet door style work with the door style you picked (from a three panel brochure the size of a Nat!) and fit with the overall look? OMG! What IS the overall look? Did we even decide that?

The good news is, YES to all of the above! That is the greatest benefit of working with a designer. Designers put together a vision, and then make sure you stay on track. Often where homeowners fall of the cliff is three quarters of the way through the project. They forget some of their first decisions, or loose site of the over all goal and the exhaustion sets in, taking over like a bad mother-in-law. And whether you have a plan or not, sometimes these last few weeks take their toll, and you just want to throw your hands in the air and be done with it already! The dust, the heat, the trades coming and going, definitely can make the most calm homeowners feel defeated. Don’t get exasperated. Take a deep breath. Remember that construction always takes longer than planned, always, and while being in the thick of things may seem like too much, rarely does a homeowner remember the heartache once the project is completed. Sure you may have some giggles about the OMG! moments, but as I always say,

“A homeowners quality of enjoyment and satisfaction is always remembered far beyond the cost and construction, once their project is completed.”~ Amanda Burdge

Scouts honor!…….. And no I wasn’t a scout, but if it helps, it will hopefully convince you that it’s worth a few months of pain. Ten to fifteen years of utilizing that new space brings you ultimate pride and joy, and that far out weighs the time it takes to create it.

1) Shower Tile Continued

Shower tile

Last week the shower floor (basket weave) had been installed, and the back wall got started about 40″ up from the floor. This week the side walls continued to get their 12″ pieces, and then the pencil mold went up to create a breaking point between the 12″ and 3×6 tiles.

Tile installation

I had Ritchie take the ceiling up 18″ in the shower to make it feel more spacious. The original ceiling was barely seven and half feet, and felt like being in a wet, dark coffin. (Everyone’s dream, right?) Originally the tile was going to stop at the 8′ mark, however, after reviewing it, Ritchie and I decided that it would be better to tile the entire shower. Now this was not a hiccup, but rather an ‘on the job observation on how to make life better’ decision. We could have easily left the tile at the 96″ mark and called it a day. However, a small box shower, as this one is, tends to hold moisture. TN happens to be VERY humid. And despite having a fan and custom shower door made to dispel moisture, there just isn’t any guarantee! Leaving the ceiling and upper wall in painted drywall would eventually mildew, and we didn’t want that for Mrs S. So for maintenance and cleaning purposes, we decided to tile the entire shower enclosure.

2) Preliminary Bathroom floors

Floor pattern layout

Here, shown above, Ritchie has laid out the tile according to my chicken scratch (you’ll remember the pic below). As you recall, our original tile was back ordered until August. Each and every one of those marble 12″ tiles had to be cut to size…..a very laborious task!

Amanda's floor tile chicken scratch

On this particular day I had to rush out to the house for a tile emergency! Mrs S was not certain the black border looked good with the marble. This is something very important for homeowners to remember. Often, when you see something in an incomplete state you will question it. Again, this is where a professional can help you through this seemingly scary process. If Mrs S took this black border out of the design, the bathroom floor would fall flat. The border is there to outline the bathroom, add punch and wow factor but most importantly, ground the space. An all white floor would be way too wispy, and would get lost. And after each and every tile has been hand cut, I’m sure Ritchie wants everyone to take notice!

Designer tip: Certain design elements date a space. For instance, a home with gold fixtures screams the 80′s! So if you are about to remodel, how do you pick items that feel on trend, but won’t date your space? Always keep it classic. Hard elements like floors and cabinets should have simple, classic lines. This ensures a solid investment and allows you to change other elements, like paint, in a snap, and it easily updates your space.

3) Electrical

Sloppy First coat of paint

Ritchie got the tradewinds primer up end of last week, and the electrical went live this week. Electrical was suppose to go live last week….and they were having some issues. At any rate it’s up and running now. I was very pleased with the paint color. Although this is just a sloppy starter, what a difference it makes compared to the look of the old bathroom! Tile will most likely continue until the end of this week, and may go into next week. Since every piece has to be hand cut, the installer is moving much slower than usual. But we will keep our hopes up for end of week!

There you have it, week 9! So what do you think so far? Think your ready to remodel? Not quite as fast as they make it on those home decorating shows now is it? haha, stay tuned!

If you missed week one, click here.

If you missed week two, Click here

If you missed week three, click here

If you missed week four and five, click here

If you missed week six, click here

If you missed week seven, click here

If you missed week eight, click here

Have questions? See something that you want more clarification on? Send me your comments and let us know your thoughts. We will post questions and answers here on the blog.

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Posted: July 20, 2011 by Amanda Gates |Filed Under: Before and after | Interiors | bathrooms | design 101 | design education | design tips | design tricks | remodeling | amanda burdge bathroom design consultant, bathroom inspiration, bathroom remodel, bathroom tile, construction, cool springs remodel, how to remodel, master bathrooms, paint, remodeling help, shower installation, showers, tile, tile installation, what to look for when remodeling 6 Comments AB Homes Interiors Blog

6 things to consider, before planning your new kitchen

When it comes to designing, or remodeling your kitchen, bigger is not always better. In a society that prides itself on larger than life portion sizes, that may be hard to believe. But when it comes to your hub, an efficient plan trumps it’s larger counter part. So what do you need to know in order to make smart decisions and feel confident about you choices? Here are my tips for designing the best kitchen.

1) It’s all about geometry

Always work within the bermuda triangle, otherwise you’ll get lost! Wait,… what? Ok, not really, but you will get tired and worn out. The triangle was concieved to help cooks perform more efficiently. When everything is tight and easily accesible you expend less energy. Real science y’all! SO design your kitchen accordingly!

AB HOME kitchen

2) Open shelving

Did she just say what I think she said? Yes, I know, your teeth just clinched, your butt tightened and your head is already bobbing into the “NOOOOO” position. What most homeowners don’t realize is that 20% of their kitchen items are used 80% of the time. So what does that mean? That means you are utilizing the same things, over and over and over again…and most often, more than twice a week. How much easier would your life be if all you had to do is grab them off the shelf, and then place them back on the shelf after they were cleaned? Ummm, ooo, ooo I know! EASY!!

Stylish Kitchen, Better Homes

3) Flooring

What type of cook are you? A microwave connoisseur? An every day, Rachel savant? Or an expert Ramsey gastronome? When designing your kitchen, the materials you choose under your feet should not go unnoticed. Sure, most homeowners choose their floors merely on whether or not it coordinates with the rest of thier Kitchen finishes. However, if you tend to spend hours on end in your kitchen, choose materials that are going to be forgiving on your knees!

Kitchen floors

4) Cooking the Books

In my experience, even the microwave connoisseur (who swears they can’t cook), owns The joy of cooking. And for the more adventurous wannabes, Mastering the art of French cooking. Don’t we all dream of being Julia Childs? Although I haven’t been able to pull it off, I have a copy of Beef Bourguignon in my cupboard that is going to win awards!…….As soon as I actually attempt to cook it. So whether you have four books or hundreds, always plan for storage of your books. Every houshold has them, and you don’t want it to be an after thought.

Cookbook storage

5) Kitchen Island

Even if your kitchen is small on size, always plan for an island, or penisula where possible. Kitchens tend to house a lot of people at one time, especially during gatherings or holidays. Even though this isn’t a Justin Beiber concert, the more you can distribute the tribe, the better. They are also great to set up buffets or prepare meals, desserts and or crafts on. Islands and penisulas are kitchen utility workhorses, that get you away from the perimeter of the room (where you are staring at a wall; BO-ring!) and into the actual space, where you can enjoy conversation and the activities.

Kitchen island

6) Let there be light!

Six years ago the family and I journeyed to Memphis Tennessee, to visit with the king. OK, we weren’t actually visiting WITH him per say, it was more like visiting his home, Graceland. But let me tell you, there were folks in our tour that were not only with him, but having conversations with him!…..OK,moving on. The one thing that has stood out until this day, the lack of lighting. How on earth did y’all cook and prepare meals in these archaic dungeons? Better yet, how on earth did you manage to make it to the 80′s with all ten fingers?

Graceland kitchen

When it comes to designing your new kitchen, lighting is THE most important ingredient. Things to consider: Natural light, recessed light, under counter light/under shelf light, over cabinet light and toe kick lighting. Now whether you decide to do all of them or not, at least choose three of those options. Recessed lighting gives you the overall general lighting necessary to SEE. Under cabinet and under shelf lighting prevents shadowing from the recessed cans, and provides you with important (no fingers were harmed during this remodel) task lighting. Over cabinet and toe-kick lighting are spectacular for entertaining and create a dreamy mood in your kitchen. Not to mention, they are wonderful nightlights to come home to.

Lighting

What are some challenges you have faced, or are currently up against with your kitchen design?

Heres a few more posts I recommend that may help you with your kitchen:

How to create dining space in your kitchen

6 known facts to help you out in the kitchen

5 things to update your dining table

How to build a lighting plan

Best ways to get organized

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

images: Better homes and gardens, the kitchen, Design Sponge, DS, peta flop, sacramento street

5 tips for decorating a small space

Have you heard? The new trend in the housing market is no longer buying Mcmansions. Pocket sized homes are the hottest, big-thing to hit the housing market. As our economy struggles to get back on it’s feet, one lousy foot at a time, homeowners no longer have big house envy. Nope. People are scrambling to buy pocket sized homes, smaller than 800 square feet. Some even as small as 400 square feet. Gone are the days of being house poor. Homeowners want to live within their means, and live the bigger dream: being debt free! So how on earth do you decorate and luxuriate 400 square feet of space? Here are my top tips to show you how!

1) Mirrors

Mirrors

Your biggest weapon to make the space appear larger than it is! Also adds character and charm.

2) Use tone-on-tone colors

Soft tone on tone room

Through out the space, use tone-on-tone paints and fabrics in light colors. Keep base, walls, crown and ceiling paint in the same color, and vary the finishes. Matte for walls, satin for trim. The softer the palette the easier the room is to read, and the easier it is on the eyes. When working with a small space, it is important!

3) Laquer your floors.

Shiny floor

Lacquered floors

Whether they are wood, concrete or acrylic, paint or coat your floors in a high gloss sheen. It is reflective, and makes the space feel expansive.

4) Add skylights

Skylights

You just can’t go wrong with natural light….

5) Go big with less

go big in small spaces

Homeowners always assume that in a small space, their decorations should be small. Not true! Opt for larger pieces and less of them. Larger pieces, decorated in a simple, easy to read fashion, makes your space appear larger, and less cluttered. Always choose larger scaled items. You know my motto: GO BIG, OR GO HOME!

What are some of your favorite tricks?

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

Harley decorations

I find that decorating with Harley’s is the perfect solution for decorating in small spaces, like live sculpture. So avant garde, and stuff. Puur-oew!

Think I’m awesome? Me too! Find me on facebook!

images: tumblr, twenty two avenue, #mce_temp_url#, creamy life, apartment therapy, jordinII

6 things you can do now for an instant home makeover, that won’t break the bank

So you have decided it’s time to decorate, or maybe redecorate your home. You are excited, overzealous about all the things you’re going to do, and you are equipped with all the necessary inspiration: the magazine clippings, the home shows set on your DVR and plenty of decorating books to boot. There’s no way you can fail! Then you realize how much one room will cost. Oh dear, you think, I was planning on doing the whole house! SO what can you do? Here are my top tips to get the biggest bang for your buck with the best impact.

1) First rule of thumb-dont try to do everything all at once!

Trying to do it all at once

One of the biggest mistakes most homeowners make, they try to do it all at once! Believe it or not, decorating your home is overwhelming. There are a lot of decisions that need to be made, it takes a lot of time, and it can get expensive. Instead of trying to do several rooms all at once, keep your sanity and do one room at a time. Trust me, when you do it slowly you have more focus and actually enjoy the process. It isn’t a race so take your time!

2) Paint-least expensive with the biggest punch

Paint

Designers and the like preach this over and over again. Paint is by far the most prolific tool we pocess. Why? Nothing can transform a room like a fresh, new coat of paint. Think about it. If your room was white and you paint it a deep eggplant, that has an immediate look that changes that space. Nothing can create mood, drama, and change better than paint. And if you are trying to keep things budget friendly, or simply test the waters, paint is the best improvement to start your decorating.

3) Moldings. Base, crown, and waincoting

Molding

Never underestimate the power of moldings! It can add instant sophistication and detail to a room. Molding is inexpensive, and easy to install. Designer tip: Many homeowners want to do their own moldings to save cash. But keep in mind that your resources are limited compared to a professionals. I alone have three molding companies in my back pocket, that provide beautiful moldings that few have ever seen! Not to mention I get terrific pricing on those materials. Most homeowners run to their nearest home improvement store to find their materials. While they have moldings to choose from, their selection are limited, and costly. I would also recommend hiring a professional to install them. My contractor can install a rooms molding in one day. If you are really short on cash and you are a terrific carpenter, then install it yourself. However, my experieince has seen that when a homeowner installs it, it turns into a month long project. One day of labor to hire a professional installer is much less than a months worth of your valuable time.

4) Move your furniture around

Repurpose and move furniture

Don’t stay married to your furniture arrangements. Mix things up! For some reason I find that clients can’t envision their sofa in the next room, or a chair from the living room placed in their bedroom sitting area. Tear everything up, place it in the center of the room and then rearrange everything in other parts of the house. It sounds scary, but I promise it creates a fresh and exciting look, without costing anything other than time!

5) Move art

AB HOME art

Like furniture, most of my clients hang their art on a wall and only envision it on that first wall it was ever hung on…until of course they move. Don’t feel like your art has to be stationary. Move it around. Like paint it is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to update your home, and give it an instant facelift!

6) Paint your cabinets

Painted cabinets

Don’t have the budget dollars to remodel? Update your kitchen by painting your cabinets. In the past three years I have had many clients opt for this update, instead of completely remodeling and gutting their kitchen. This is a great way to update, change and spend a third of the money a typical remodel would cost.

Harley

‘Scuse me! Why have I not been on the blog???? Hmmmm? I am the most important contributor to this space on the web!

Thats right, I am the best putty cat on the web. Damn straight! Find more of my awesomeness on facebook!

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

images: flickr, design sponge, oh happy day, small shop studio, traditional home, quinntessence

Remodeling series-week 6

This week things started getting a bit sticky. Literally! It’s been very hot here in TN, and throw in the 70% humidity and you feel like you need to grow some gills to breathe. But as our remodel progresses so do the decisions that need to be made. Before I left on vacation the electrician accidentally poked a hole into the drywall going into the powder room. So now the powder room drywall, and wallpaper have to be stripped and repaired. This weeks hiccup number 1 to fix.

Along with that little mishap, we had a few other major decisions and re-decisions that needed to be made

1) The doors we picked out in week three:

Bathroom doors

I personally have opted for stained doors. The room will be predominately white, and sparkly so stained doors will ground the space. But the first reaction to this idea “absolutely not, we want them painted!” Which was perfectly OK. I can ground with other items….however, as we approach and pass week six, Mr. and Mrs. S cannot decide if they do in fact like the idea of painted doors, and they are now thinking that staining them is a good idea. The problem with this indecision is that it takes three to four weeks to mill a door. An additional week when they are customized with frosted glass. So remember this when you are about to remodel: Always have as many selections and decisions made UP FRONT, before the project starts, so construction is not delayed, and costs don’t escalate for days lost.

2) Also in week six, all tile products and tile designs were finalized. We started out with this:

Original idea and layout for tile

This is an example of my chicken scratch (shown above) that I typically do in the beginning stages of the project. This is to help give a direction for tile layout and selection, but also helps give the client an idea of overall design direction. I used to do very elaborate designs in the very beginning but found it to be counter productive. A design will typically morph into something bigger or change due to budget or availability of the product, so elaborate designs are saved until ALL decisions are made.

Tile I chose for the bathroom:

Marble

Tile, hiccup number 2: Tile was all in stock when Ritchie checked quantities three weeks ago…….when Ritchie placed his tile order on Friday the 12″ tile was backordered until August. To prevent further delays and force the entire project to stop, Ritchie wanted me to determine the solution. Did I mention that being an interior designer is all about being fast on your feet and solution oriented?? Well the company makes 12″ x 24″ tiles and those happened to be in stock. The problem? Well each and every piece has a beveled edge:

Beveled edge

So if we cut the tile in half…one edge is straight while the other three sides are beveled. In order for us to move forward the edge will have to be cut and beveled, each.and.every.piece! Yup, so this is going to slow us down and add to the labor cost. But if we were to wait until August to buy the material when it is available we would make up that cost in construction delays. It is what it is.

SO, you are all wondering, why didn’t we order the material three weeks ago? Too many things were undecided. Mrs S was still determining her vanity cabinet style, the marble slabs were not selected, the bathroom floor blue print was still not completed and the shower layout has changed three times. I have been on jobs that have done it both ways, (ordered ahead of time and at the time it is needed) and neither one is perfect. If you order the product up front you may: 1) end up with too much, 2) the design concept gets tweaked and requires something different, 3) not have enough by the time you start installing at which point the dye lot could change and the material looks distinctly different, 4) And the biggest of all issues, storage, where do you put all the product? But as with anything, when you wait to avoid the above issues, you get hit with a whole other set of issues….nothings perfect!

At any rate, the design has been tweaked to accommodate the available material and tile will start going down next week.

3) Drywall sanding and finishing

Drywall

Along with the items listed above, the drywall was taped, sanded and smoothed out for paint. If you’ll notice, the drywall has a funny gold color now. Ritchie always paints his drywall a dark color to ensure absolutely NO imperfections are visible. He is a perfectionist when it comes to walls, and he insists that his drywall guys SEE everything. So far no hiccups with the drywall…but it’s still the beginning of the week!

There you have it, week six in a nutshell. If you have been tuning in each week you’ll notice that we are heading into our second month swiftly and we are still doing major construction. This is important to know for all you first time remodelers. At this stage of the project homeowners are starting to get jaded, they question their decisions, and start getting frustrated because they still aren’t seeing results. Remodels are expensive, dirty and you have strange people coming and going out of your house. Six weeks is a long time, and although we are approaching the home stretch, we are not out of the woods yet! Trust your decisions, grab your second wind with gusto, and hang in there!

If you missed week one, click here.

If you missed week two, Click here

If you missed week three, click here

If you missed week four and five, click here

Have questions? See something that you want more clarification on? Send me your comments and let us know your thoughts. We will post questions and answers here on the blog.

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Interior Scale-2 ways to get it right

I have done many posts on scale and explained why it is important to our interiors. And if you have taken my Design strategies class, you know I put a lot of focus on this subject. You see, when it comes to decorating your home, scale is what creates harmony. Without harmony your home just feels off! Ever walked into a home and it just didn’t feel right…but you couldn’t quite put your finger on why?

Today I show some wonderful examples of beautiful rooms with poor scale, and awesome examples of how to correct it!

1) Lamps-this is MY BIGGEST pet peeve. Lamps should not be smaller than 30″. If your lamp is below your bed, side table, end table, etc….how the heck are you suppose to read? or see for that matter!?

Beautiful room, poor scale

So this is an example of poor scale (shown above)

Good scale

This is an example of good scale (shown above). This lamp is ABOVE the furniture setting and can be utilized to SEE!

2) Coffee tables-Pet peeve number 2! I cannot stand it when I see teensie-weensie cocktail tables in front of furniture arrangements. We walk around these peices to sit, so why would I want them to bite me in the process? Is there anything worse than getting shazzammed in the shin as you go to sit on the sofa? I think not! Stay away from the pint sized midget furniture.

Poor scale

Very, very poor scale (shown above). Too short, too small, too pointy! Screams ouch all the way around!

Proper scale

Great scale, soft corners, correct height and perfect scale with the over all room!

I have found that most people instinctually choose proper scale. Why? Becuase it feels better and more comfortable. As I mentioned above, when the scale is off it makes us uncomfortable, and looks funny. Where most people get themselves into trouble is when they blindly go into a store or shop through a catalog and buy something without measuring, and not taking into consideration their own room. Always measure what you are about to buy, and always keep in mind how that item will fit into YOUR room.

What is the most confusing thing about scale for you?

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

images: digs, good girl gone glad, houzz, french by design

Posted: June 27, 2011 by Amanda Gates |Filed Under: Before and after | Interiors | design | design 101 | design basics | design education | design tips | design tricks | accessories, accessories in cool springs, design 101, design basics in Brentwood tn, design education, design how-to, Home decor Nashville tn, how to buy accessories, how to buy decor, Interiors in brentwood TN, scale and proportion 4 Comments AB Homes Interiors Blog

Art 101-Why art is synonymous with a well lived life

According to wikipedia: Art is the product or process of deliberately arranging items in a way that influences and affects ones senses and intellect. As I often say here on this blog, interiors done well equal a true lifestyle. And what is a lifestyle? A home that inspires and influences your mood!

My biggest arsenal when decorating: ART. I.love.art! I cannot tell you what makes a piece special, or why one costs more than another, but I can tell you that art, like a well lived life, influences your mood, and emotions. Nothing can make a home more personal or special than the art that you put in it.

Case in point: Three years ago my hair stylist went to Alabama for a weekend get away with her three sons. Before this trip her and I had many, many conversations about interior design and art. “Why oh why does art need to be so expensive?” she’d say. “And why oh why would someone pay thousands of dollars for it?” “I just don’t get it!” she’d screech.

Well on this particular trip she found herself immersed in the art district (thanks in part to her eldest) and like fate, she was whacked in her flabby dabs by a sculpture that made her weep. Never had she experienced such emotion over what she’d declare as “an absurd blob, deemed as art for a ridiculous price”. Her three sons, 17,19,and 22 years of age had never seen their tough, single mother cry in such a way over “an absurd blob…deemed as expensive art.” Those boys worked out a deal with the art dealer and saved for an entire year to buy that sculpture and gave Tracy (mom) an absurd blob on Mothers day 2010.

To this day when I tell a client that very story my eyes well up with emotion. Not only did the sculpture bring her to tears before she owned it, but now knowing how important it was for her sons to buy that art for her, it means ten thousand times more to her now. Those three gentlemen not only negotiated a deal with the art dealer to make payments for a year, but worked as a team to save up $3800 for their mama to have something extraordinary! How many young men do you know that would do that?

Art may seem like an absurd amount of money. Or it may be completely reasonable. But have you ever cried in the middle of a Target because a pillow or vase was just too much? Or screeched with laughter in the middle of a Costco because you were so moved by their Starving artist plate series? Probably not. Genuine art moves us in ways that cannot be explained. And each piece speaks to all of us differently. What peaks my interest may put you to sleep. What is important about art that speaks your language is that living in a home that screams authenticity rather than HGTV, allows you to live your best life.

Every time Tracy passes, “Three Sons” (her blob named after her sons) in the entrance of her home, she cannot help but smile from ear to ear. When she is having a bad day she sits with it, and on a good day she speaks her praises to it. Art transcends and transforms you. Just like Music, it can completely change your life. And sorry ladies, but plastic ivy from Michael’s, or a cheap vase from TJMAXX can’t do that!

Art by Carl Plansky

This beautiful piece of art (shown above) from Carl Plansky, compliments of, Young House Love, is a beautiful display of using art correctly. So many homeowners feel that they have to put tons of stuff in a hallway to make it pretty. Beautiful, large art is the perfect compliment to add a splash of color, and interest. And I don’t know about you, but this piece would definitely elevate my mood!

AB HOME, October showhouse

In our most recent show house, this painting by Marabeth Quinn, brought this antique console to life. Paired with modern, turned-wood lamps, and a mirrored bar tray, the homeowners loved it so much they bought it!

AB HOME, Living green in green hills Show house

Here, in the Living green in Green Hills show house I placed this beautiful piece of art in our hallway to add a wonderful splash of color, interest and whimsy. This painting was such a success, Marabeth, the artist, got more attention and acclaim than anything I did with the interior. The interior designer, whO?? But as luck would have it, Marabeth and I became wonderfully close and this past April she and her husband decided to move to Hawaii and as a gift to our friendship she gave me her most famous trademark piece,”Wonder”, that now hangs in my conference room:

AB HOME Interiors

For three years I would randomly call her up and tell her the studio had been robbed and the only thing they took were her paintings. Of course it was a cheap effort to get a piece of her magic, and a quick giggle amongst friends…..although I was tempted many times to take one home to see if she would notice. My efforts finally paid off and I swear I go into the conference area all the time with Harley just because it makes me so freakin’ HAPPY!!

Your home should influence and uplift your mood. It should breathe every interest you have and show you off. Nothing does that better than Art. It doesn’t matter if Suzy down the street doesn’t agree with your selection. If that piece of Art changes your mood for the better, your day will be more productive and in harmony with your intent. That my friends is a lifestyle!

Do you have a favorite artist, or painting that you love?

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Find us on facebook and Twitter too!!

images: Young house love, AB HOME Interiors, AB HOME Designs, Amanda Burdge

Remodeling series-week three

Knowing that I was heading into vacation for a week, this particular week for the Mrs S remodel was hectic. I wanted to make sure that everything was in order, decided on and ready to go for my contractor Ritchie, while I was out of town. I rarely go out of town, and vacation is only once or twice a year. SO when I leave, I do not want to think about work. I want to think about morning coffee on the porch, moms old fashion cooking, and stiff drinks on the lake surrounded by laughter and funny memories. My biggest stress of the day: What time do we eat, go out in the boat, and who do we want to see. Serious stress!

This week the new boards for the floor were completed so new drywall could go up.

New tub drywall

Walkway to toilet

His vanity and shower

Her vanity

This week Mrs S and I had to reselect several of our original plumbing pieces. They came in over budget and they were not things she felt were items worth being over budget, and I agreed with that decision. Original tub selection was fine but we had to purchase faucets after finding out old ones could not be reused, and reselect our shower hardware and tub hardware. We kept Kohler as our brand but selected a line that was less expensive.

New faucets and shower hardware

In addition to re selecting our plumbing, we also went to the slab yard to select our counter slabs. We picked a beautiful polished marble:

Carrera Marble

Never choose your counter tops from a small 4×4 square. A lot of kitchen and bath companies will have little samples for you to choose from which is great to get an idea of the direction you want to go. However, always go to the slab yard and select THE slab that will go in your home. Marble and granite are natural materials and each slab is different. The veining is different and oftentimes the slabs will have blobs, smudges, and boogers in them (and yes those are technical terms!) Some people love the variances and others absolutely hate them.

Blob

This slab above was rejected by Mrs S. She hated that large, dark vein. She preferred the more subtle and consistent slab that we chose above. I have worked in three major cities as a designer and every slab yard has a terrific team of experts that will move these gargantuan slabs around so you can find the perfect one for your home and preference.

After we selected our slabs we went to the door and window company to choose our doors. The bathroom layout is unique in that it has four doors. There are two closets, one for her, one for him, there is a door for a linen closet, and finally a water closet housing the toilet. Because Mrs S has a small bathroom with a lot of doors, I wanted to highlight the doors and make them an architectural feature. I also wanted them to be glass to make the bathroom appear larger than it was, and allow more light into the closets.

Bathroom doors

This is the door we will use, but ours will be a three panel not a five. Mrs S also prefers that the glass be frosted so both of the closet doors will have a light frosted glass, and the linen closet will have mirrors. A decision Mrs S came up with, that I thought was a terrific idea! It is also important to note that design is a group effort. Oftentimes design will start with a strong direction from the designer but will typically unfold and come into it’s own style as decisions are made by the client. Never underestimate your style and creativity. Many of my clients think that they are not creative and unable to do design, but often their contributions to the project are what solidify and define the look and feel that makes it extraordinary!

So there you have it. If you missed week one, click here.

If you missed week two, click here.

Have questions? See something that you want more clarification on? Send me your comments and let us know your thoughts. We will post questions and answers here on the blog.

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Posted: June 15, 2011 by Amanda Gates |Filed Under: Interiors | bathrooms | design tips | remodeling | amanda burdge bathroom design consultant, bathroom remodel ideas, master bathroom ideas, remodeling, remodeling help in brentwood tn 12 Comments AB Homes Interiors Blog

3 ways to add decadence to your bathroom

Let’s face it, we spend a lot of time in our bathrooms. It is a space that is typically used individually, so why not adorn them with decadent luxuries that uplift your mood. Here a few things that I like to always have in a bathroom for added decadence.

Rustic bathroom

Vintage faucet

1) Add fresh flowers, a rustic or flea market mirror, and a special faucet. Faucets add bling, whether a shiny new find, or a vintage masterpeice.

White bathroom

2) Add white. Bathrooms in white are timeless, and feel soothing. Compliment your faucet with a chandelier or a pair of sconces to add glamour.

White bathroom

Bath accessories

3) Dont forget the details! A fluffy mat, fresh cut flowers, a ruffled shower curtain and a pop of color from a side table make the first photo above feel inviting. Always have on had sumptuous thick towels, bath salts, and personal care items that are easy to find. As an added bonus I always like to add a jar of chocolates or mints and have a tray of bottled water. This is very decadent for your guests as well!

What do you think of white bathrooms?

Find us on facebook and follow us on twitter!

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter

Harley the harlequin

I find that I prefer black in my spaces with lots of papers, Very homey and decadent. I always find that a good nap never hurt no one!

Think I am awesome? Yeh, me too! Find me on facebook!

Organization in new ways

As Mondays always approach at warp speed…and Fridays seem to run in the opposite direction, I decided to share some great organization tips in an unlikely medium: food! As Spring approaches, and we shed a layer or two of clothing, we are graced with warm weather B-B-Ques, get-together’s, and plenty of excuses to eat. Here are some terrific ways to multi-task your way to a full belly!

1) Cupcakes on a stick:

Cupcakes on a stick

How fun is this? From Sweet Paul magazine, this idea keeps your party goers filled with surprise and excitement. Easy to eat, and a throwback to our child hood.

2) Old favorite in a new way:

Eggplant fries

From use real butter, courtesy of the Hungry Mouse, the perfect appetizer for an afternoon of family chit chat and relaxation. Easy to make, tasty, and healthier than it’s potato counterpart. And wrapping a small portion in wax paper stuffed into a cup is the perfect casual presentation for your guests, and hints at appropriate portion control!

3) Beer multi tasking at it’s finest!

Beer drinking multi tasker

Oh my holy heaven I think this is brilliant. Talk about having your beer and drinking it to! The GO plate, from Keg works, makes the party practical, and you never have to set your drink down again! And works with all types of drink bottles. Absolutely brilliant!

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter

Savvy Collecting-Top Tips for Vintage Cocktail Shakers

Cocktail Shaker collection

For those of you who know me, and for those of you who don’t, my booze of choice is Vodka. It’s the kool aid with so many options it can be hard to decide what to drink next, and when your finished drinking you can simplify your cleaning habits, and maybe sneak a slurp or two! My drink of choice is an extra dirty Vodka martini, three olives, preferably with Grey Goose or Belvedere. Yes, I know there are stupidly expensive, supposedly more smooth than rain vodkas like, Crystal head vodka, by the blues brother himself, Dan Aykroyd. But a good quality Vodka shouldn’t cost more than $20-$30 bucks a bottle. However, anything below $10 bucks a bottle save your self the trouble, run to Target and buy yourself some rubbing alcohol. It’s cheaper and tastes about the same . Ok, obviously I am not condoning such ridiculous behavior but cheap Vodka feels like jet fuel down your throat. If you can’t afford the good stuff, wait until you can.

Crystal head vodka

Part of the allure and fun of drink making is the ritual of making the drink. Due to the resurgence of such drinks like the martini and the cosmopolitan, there has been a renewed curiosity with cocktail shakers. More importantly the revival of pre WWII cocktail shakers. The height of their decorative popularity was between WWI and WWII. However, when WWII began the heyday of the luxury item ceased and all metal went to the war effort, therefore they have become highly collectible!

1927 Lighthouse Cocktail shaker

This cocktail shaker shown above, from Cocktailshakers.com is made by International Silver Plate, and is one of the rarest cocktail shakers around. Mainly due to its enormous size, and it has been preserved in such magnificent condition it comes in at $23,900!

Manhattan cocktail shaker

Also by CocktailShakers.com, this shaker by Revere Bel Geddes is ca 1936. Pulling in a price tag of $3900, this set is highly collectible and equally rare because it includes the cups, which were only made between 1936 and 1940.

Instant Style that’s affordable:

Vintage cocktail shakers are a great way to add immediate style to your bar, and are a fun item to look for and collect. They are also very fun to incorporate into your decor. Many of them have sharp lines, energetic pops of color,and a spirited history. For those interested in collecting and thinking this sort of thing is out of your price range, not to worry. Many sets are available in the $150-$300 price range.

Commonly found Styles:

1) The Skyscraper

Vintage Cocktail shaker

Deemed the skyscraper for their unique sleek shapes, iconic asymmetrical spout and staggering height. Drink up!

2) Revere

Revere Cocktail Shaker

The epitome of Art Deco design many of W.A Weldon’s pieces were designed in the mid to late thirties. This iconic cocktail shaker is a great example of modern 1930′s American design. It was designed by William Archibald Welden in 1938 for the Revere Copper and Brass company.

3) Chase

Chase Cocktail shakers

Also during the Art Deco period in the mid to late thirties was the Chase Brass and Copper company. Their shakers were streamlined polished chrome and included Bakelite accents, jewel color and their iconic tops. While they made several shaker styles, this shaker shown above, to me, embodies THE chase cocktail shaker.

4) The Zeppelin

The Zeppelin Cocktail Shaker

The Zeppelin Cocktail shaker was introduced in 1928 with nickel plated body and gold inserts containing the following: four cups, one funnel, one strainer with juicer, cap and body, nose cone, decanter, tail and cover for sugar, cup & cover for dried fruit, muddler, and finally a cork screw. The zeppelin comes in many shapes, but always holds true to it’s iconic silver bullet style.

Tips for collecting:

Design-Look for whimsical and clever designs. The Zeppelin, a lighthouse, or a women’s leg are most valued amongst collectors. Anything with unusual shape and style
Manufacturers-Chase, International Silver, and Revere are known for their silver-plating. If you prefer glass look for shakers by Cambridge Glass, Hawkes Glass company or Hazel Atlas,( known for their cobalt blue glass.)
Pricing-Styles that were mass produced bear a lower price tag for collectors. These pieces can be picked up for less than $200 while rarer finds by designers like Geddes or Russel Wright can run into the thousands. (hence the $23K price tag of the lighthouse)

What to avoid:

Avoid pieces with dents, scratches and flakes. Major damage will lower the value and will not appreciate in value.
Examine a glass shaker closely for any major chips, cracks or scratches
Color-The more brilliant the color the higher the value. Look for bright, clear colors for glass. For instance cobalt blue was the hardest to produce and therefore commands the highest price tag.
Reproductions-Be sure the piece you are buying is authentic. Get to know the shakers you love. Learn their history and do your homework before you purchase. Most shakers have patent numbers, manufacturer inscriptions or stamps.

Vintage cocktail hour

Where to buy:

Having an afternoon toddy was a favorite past time of many Americans during the 30′s, 40′s and 50′s. It was considered an entertaining essential to all get together’s. For this reason the cocktail shaker is fairly easy to find. Antique malls, flea markets, swap meets and places like Ebay.com, Cocktailshakers.com and 1stdibs.com are excellent online resources. And you will never have more fun than looking for one, and when you find a set that sings to you, you’ll be hooked!

Great recipes from AB HOME that we recommend, to shake it up!

French 75 cocktail

Pineapple Mint Julep

Orange blossom cocktail

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Harley the Kit Kat

“Yea, I don’t need a cocktail to get my shake on, it just comes naturally.”

Think I’m awesome? Me too! Find me on facebook!

images: flickr, james allen,Cocktail shakers, 1st dibs, Art knowledge, Space modern, Southern accents

Content research: Stephen Viskay

Mondays clever tips to beat the organizing blues

I saw a quote on facebook last Friday that made me chuckle. “Why is Monday so far from Friday, but Friday so close to Monday?” Very good point indeed! Todays tips are clever tricks to repurpose everyday items into organizing workhorses.

1) Kids unused toys

Dollhouse organization

I just love this. From country living, this family repurposed their daughters old dollhouse into a functional yet whimsical storage shelf for their everyday nessesities in the laundry room. Super cute, great repurposing and very clever.

2) Antique blanket rack

Bathroom

From Marthastewart.com, here a clever use for a blanket rack. This homeowner uses her rack to hang towels for the kids. Not only is this pretty and unexpected, but also more functional than an ordinary towel rack.

3) Cookie sheets

Instant mudroom

From doll store crafts, this easy to make, instant mudroom is a clever way to repurpose everyday cookie sheets. Fill with river stones from a home improvement store and voila, you have yourself an easy to use tray to place wet or muddy shoes right off the most used door in your house. The best part? Easy to clean too!

What are some everyday items you use in a clever new way?

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Harley the AB HOME kit kat

“Yup the human claims to have built this so called office, but we all know it’s MY empire.”

Think I’m awesome? Me too! Find me on facebook!

The ultimate guide to purchasing a toilet

The Nebulous Kingdom from etsy

Every time I remodel a bathroom the conversation always stops at the toilet. I will easily and swiftly choose your tile, counters, floors, faucets, sinks, even your towels, but my selections stop at the toilet. Why? Well in my opinion the toilet area is a sacred space. I really don’t care to share your bowl size. Nor do I care to know if you need a one piece or two. What you do with your giggly bits is entirely up to you. It is a space of quiet, and intimate vulnerability that is as individual as nature itself. Me selecting your toilet is essentially like me telling you the kind of undergarments you should wear without knowing the proper sizes.

Toilet exposure in Switzerland

Time and time again I have been in the position to make such a decision. Unfortunately my dear mavens, I find the water closet a highly classified place of business. Therefore, it is my duty to educate and share my knowledge, letting you make the decision that is right for you and your snicker doodles.

The toilet

So how do you pick the right one?

Just like the egotistic wallstreet tycoon, the toilet with the most appeal is faster, more powerful and quiet while destroying everything around it. When selecting a toilet here are a few factors that you should keep in mind, before you make a selection.

Top 10 amenities in a toilet:

1) Comfort. Many are available in comfort height. What does that mean? The toilet is close to the height of a chair so you expend less energy seating and getting back up. Can I insert this into general life?

2) Style-A toilet is not an American patron of consumerism without options. Skirts, traps, seats, trip levers…all available to customize to suit your needs and desires.

3) Bowl shape-Do you prefer round or elongated? How much room do you have? Elongated bowls are more comfortable but space can be an issue so you can choose compact elongated.

4) Performance-From Double cyclone from toto, to Kohlers Class five technology, every manufacturer has options galore when it comes to flushing performance and hygiene.

5) Water conservation-Most toilets now use less water by incorporating larger flush valves and larger trapways. This ensures less clogs for less water use.

6) Noise-Ever been woke up at three am by the gurgling airplane sounding vacuum? And then been unable to sleep as the tank fills with water for what seems like 10 years? New toilets don’t do that!

7) 1 peice or 2-One piece toilets are just as they sound. Their tank is not separate. Performance is the same as a two piece, but word on the street is a one piece is less likely to leak and is more hygienic.

Efficiency-Most toilets now use less water. But thanks to the EPA’s water sense program, manufacturers are trying to outdo themselves by manufacturing HET toilets. A.K.A. High efficiency toilets. Less water, better performance

9) Concealed or exposed trap-Concelaed traps feature a smooth surface at the back of the toilet rather than an open area. Easier to clean and also adds to the design element.

10) Color-Companies like Kohler have 35 colors to choose from. What is America without the choice of an orange or pink toilet option!

My top three manufacturer that I recommend for toilets are Kohler, American Standard and Toto. The average toilet costs between $300-$800. Each bell and whistle you add makes the price go up. Also keep in mind that the more efficient toilets can be more dollars and that is not a decision that should be taken lightly. If you are in the market for a new toilet the one amenity that should be kept on the table is water conservation. The average toilet from twenty years ago flushed (wasted) FIVE gallons of water PER flush. You know that water cooler at the office? One of those every time you flush. Now imagine an office of ten people, twenty people or fifty people flushing on average four times an hour. An average family of four using an old toilet will flush 300-400 gallons of water PER DAY!!

All three of the listed manufacturers above offer a toilet with Water Sense, the EPA’s seal of water conservation, stamped approval. They have a fancy little blue and green sticker that signifies water conservation. What does that mean exactly? In comparison to the above mentioned five gallons per flush, most toilets today have higher performance with an impressive 1.28 to 1.6 gallons per flush. And many manufacturers offer dual flush technology. Dual flush means one flush is for the down and dirty, (using up 1.28/1.6 gallons of water) while the latter uses .9 gallons of water. (My flush of choice since I pee like fifty times a day!)

Dual flush technology

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Harley cat

I don’t like it when you talk about my giggly bits that way……I may decide to ignore you as soon as I get what I want.

Think I’m awesome? Me too! Find me on facebook!

Images: The nebulous kingdom, the money pitt, fwd emails

Posted: February 25, 2011 by Amanda Gates |Filed Under: Interiors | bathrooms | design 101 | design education | design tips | design tricks | Bathrooms, guest bathroom, guide to toilets, How to purchase a toilet, master bathroom, toilet how-to's, toilet style, toilet tips, toilet trends, toilets, top 10 in toilets 6 Comments AB Homes Interiors Blog

Organization 101: Monday’s quick tips

Over the last month our office has been in the dust, literally. We have been in the midst of a remodel shifting items from one side of the studio, to the other and then back again. And as you can imagine, it’s close to a nightmare trying to stay organized with this chaos. Now more than ever I am craving organization, and a swiffer!

Luckily for us the major things are done and we can get back to work! It was a great week, we started to get the paint up on the walls, the phones back in place and I got to meet one of my readers, Gretchen and her husband! They own a lovely home here in town that needs some Design TLC, so my team and I will be heading to their home this week to share in the design love. Can’t wait! Here are some of our tips to keep us on track with our organizational goals.

1) Antique cabinet:

Antique cabinet

Antique cabinets like this are great to help get you organized. Ever heard the term, “Hiding in plain site?” This acts as a great piece of furniture in your home but quietly doubles as an organizational ninja. This can easily organize bills that are due, kids projects, monthly events, and much more. Once you have the system in place it is easy to follow, and a cabinet like this makes it fun, really!

2) Cord management:

Cord management

I see this more as a temporary solution, but this system by Oboiler is super easy to put in place, and covers your cords in a snap. It’s a charming way to avoid unsightly cords and I think this would be great in an office where cords take over. I could even see these painted in fun colors to add an extra unexpected detail.

3) Office envy

Pottery barn organization system

I wish I could claim to be THIS organized…..but I’m not. However, I have used this system many times for clients, so that counts, right? This is a great system for busy familys on the go. I have also used this in craft rooms, sewing rooms, hobby rooms, and mud rooms. The calendars shown above are great to place in a mud room inside each persons locker. It keeps their daily events in check, and no one forgets where to be!

4) Everyday in new ways:

Lid management

Not every home has a butlers pantry, or sufficient cabinet storage. I don’t know about y’all, but cooking pans turn tedious when it comes to their lids! One of my favorite tips (compliments of the Queen herself) is to use everyday towel bars from your home improvement store to organize your lids. I have used this system in free standing peices of furniture, and I have installed the bars directly on the walls in the kitchen or adjacent hall as functional art. Super easy to install and even better to use!

Ready to get your room started? Contact us. We offer an array of services to meet your design needs whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Want more designer tricks, tips and trade secrets, delivered to your inbox, all for FREE? Click here for our monthly newsletter!

Harley Cat

Harley’s attempt at decorating the office……”How do I look?” Black, white, and yellow. “Mom seriously this is perfection!”

Don’t forget to fan Harley on Facebook!

images: sycamore street, Oboiler, pottery barn, Martha Stewart

4 colors that will change your life, but often get overlooked!

AB HOME Interiors Pink Ribbon BM 1340

Sometimes being a designer is exhausting, especially considering that our creative minds are always fluttering like A.D.D butterfly’s and to us, it makes perfect sense to wall paper the ceiling or put headlights in the floor. And when our clients look at us like we have lost our marbles, we screech with exhilaration about how great it will be and we are certain that it IS the right thing to do! One of my favorite quotes from the ever dapper and charming Don Draper:

” A new idea is something they don’t know yet, so of course it’s not going to show up as an option!”

~ Don Draper

I’m always trying to throw in a little of the unexpected in my interiors and color is the best way to achieve serious eye candy in a room. Wake up your room with these four colors that behave a lot like neutrals but get overlooked and stereotyped before they make it off the paint chip…try it you’ll see!

1) Pink

The least respected color in the paint deck, and deemed a feminine color, but nothing adds sophistication like a shocking pink. One of my favorite pinks:

[/caption]

2) Acid Green

One of my all time favs. A scandalous green will activate and energize a room. It adds pop to any room and stimulates your senses. One of my favorites to use:

AB HOME Interiors by Gerald Tolomeo

AB HOME Interiors photo by Amanda Nisbet

3) Turquoise

This little gem of a color goes with everything and adds glamour and allure to a room. Mixed with a lovely metallic and your room feels instantly exotic. One of my favs:

[/caption]

4) Purple

Once looked upon as Royalty, this color always gets shoved to the back of the eyeballs and hardly given a chance. Regal, soft and uber chic, this color adds poise and elegance to any room.

AB HOME Interiors photo by Beckwith Interiors

AB HOME Interiors photo by Shane Reilly

Don’t forget to follow us on twitter!

And become a FAN on our AB HOME facebook fanpage!

We offer an array of services to meet your design needs

whether you live in our area, or out of state. Click here for more info!

Straight from the Harley Inbox

Harley the cat

Yes, yes the dog will show off his affections by greeting you and following you like an aimless fool.

I will show you my affections by ignoring you and demanding you feed me when I am hungry; and

maybe come around for attention when I feel like I have the time….

Think I am the greatest cat ever? Me too, find me on

facebook!

1) If you’re not sure what your project is going to cost, hire a professional like myself to come out to give you an idea.

2) Prioritize-Create a list of the essentials

3) Avoid DIY if you don’t have experience.

4) Choose projects that will yield the biggest return.

1) Discover your space

2) How will you use it?

3) Decorate your space

1) Accent chairs

2) Fabric accents

3) Bold Furniture Moves

And don’t forget to register for my upcoming teleclass: 3 Steps to a More Productive and Profitable office. It will be held THIS THURSDAY!

1) Fixture type

2) Size Matters

3) Cost

And don’t forget to register for my upcoming teleclass: 3 Steps to a More Productive and Profitable office.

1) Center of interest

2) Scale and harmony

3) Traffic patterns

4) Multi task

1) Get rid of the clutter

2) Color

3) Furnishings

1) Why are you having a party?

2) Keep it Simple

3) Consider eye appeal

4) Prepare a list

5) Find ways to Add Charm

1) Scale

2) Height

3) Options

Jerome Farris

Dana Tucker and Brooks Tucker

Caroline Weigel

1) Color coded laundry bins

2) Arrange your products accordingly

3) Folding tables

4) Drying racks

5) Seating

1) Outdoor rooms:

2) Lights

3) Comforts of home

4) Dinnerware

5) Cloth napkins and silverware

6) Flowers

1) Taller doors

2) Raise the drapes

3) Extended cabinets

4) Mirrors

5) Rug

1) To butte or miter, that is the question

2) Tile layout, pre-run

3) Radiant flooring

4) Cabinet vanity

1) Shower Tile Continued

2) Preliminary Bathroom floors

3) Electrical

1) It’s all about geometry

2) Open shelving

3) Flooring

4) Cooking the Books

5) Kitchen Island

6) Let there be light!

1) Mirrors

2) Use tone-on-tone colors

Soft tone on tone room

3) Laquer your floors.

4) Add skylights

5) Go big with less

1) First rule of thumb-dont try to do everything all at once!

2) Paint-least expensive with the biggest punch

3) Moldings. Base, crown, and waincoting

4) Move your furniture around

5) Move art

6) Paint your cabinets

1) The doors we picked out in week three:

2) Also in week six, all tile products and tile designs were finalized. We started out with this:

3) Drywall sanding and finishing

1) Cupcakes on a stick:

2) Old favorite in a new way:

3) Beer multi tasking at it’s finest!