Splash of color

COLOR! It is an aspect of design that can make a world of difference in any space. For those that are looking to add a little or a lot of spice to a room, color is the answer.



When we talk about color, most people think that means painting. Good news! You can add color with out picking up a paint brush.



One of our favorite ways to add a pop to any room are accent pillows. They come in many shapes, styles, and designs. It makes it such a versatile accent. They can be placed on a bed, sofa, or chair.

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Another awesome décor item are lamp shades. They don't have to be plain Jane white or cream. Mix it up with a colored one. Shades come in different fabrics, shapes, and colors. It is unbelievable what a lamp shade can do for a room.

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Last, how about trying a colorful piece of art. A colorful art piece can not only add the needed pop, but can also become a focal point. This is the best kind of accent. One that does two jobs. Just because art is colorful, doesn't mean it is abstract. There are many traditional and contemporary pieces that with more intense color.

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Remember, color doesn't have to mean picking up a paint brush. It can be adding accessories to your space, to achieve the amount of color and pop that is perfect for you. So, don't be scared about giving it a try. I know once you do, you will love it.

Adding life to your space

So, you have gotten a start on the interior design changes around your home. Found the accessories you love. Arranged the furniture so it is perfect, but it still feels as if something is missing.


For many spaces that missing element is a plant. Having either a real or fake plant, whether it been cut flowers in a vase or a small indoor tree, it can be the finishing touch that a room needs. A plant adds a little bit of life to a space and makes it more inviting.


Now there is a fine balance when accessorizing with plants. First, choose the right plant and container for the space. If your space is contemporary in style and you choose a more country flower, such as a sunflower, it will take away from the harmony of the space. Second, don't over do it. Make sure not to put to many plants in your space, otherwise it will have the opposite effect that you want.


If you are wanting ideas of what plants and containers to use, a place to start is by looking at design magazines and websites. Many of the pictures I have posted in past entries give some great examples of kinds of plants and containers you can use to accessorize.

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Also check out these other design magazines. Southern Accents, Country Living, and House Beautiful. Many of there home pages have pictures that plant accessories in a designer space. Also, check out other articles on the sites and you will find a plethora of examples.

If you have any questions or have topics you are interested in please email questions@yourharmonydesign.com.

Where to find accessories

                          Contemporary                       Country

        

                                    Eclectic                              Traditional

                      

                                              
A couple of weeks ago I posted an entry about accessory arrangement. To go along with that, this weeks entry is about websites and stores you can find accessories at.

Some of the well known places to find home décor are Target, Ikea, and Ross Dress for Less. But, lets look at some of the other places that designers shop.




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Those of you looking for specialty containers with either a utilitarian or decorative look, either Crate and Barrel or The Container Store are awesome sites to peruse. They have everything from kitchen containers and hooks to closet organizers. Also, Crate and Barrel has some furniture and accessories available on their website.









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For everything from tabletop accessories to furniture Pottery Barn and Pier 1 Imports are good sites to find items that fit all styles (traditional, contemporary, country, eclectic). Not only do they both have websites, but they also have stores in many states.







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 If you are looking for an even more designer look, check out these sites: Design Public and 2modern. They have a wide variety of accessories to choose from. Design Public has some wonderful wall art that I wouldn't hesitate to hang in my or a client's homes. One of my favorites is there contemporary piece: Wallter Teardrops Wall Applications (pictured at left).



          
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Then 2modern has an awesome selection of vases. To add to the contemporary look check-out their Alex Marshall Studios - Mini Ripple Vase (pictured at left).






There are a wide variety of sites and stores to find your home décor at. So, if you don't find just the right accessory the first place you look continue searching, because the décor you are looking for is out there waiting for.



To aid you in you journey, here is a larger list of websites to check out.
http://www.thecontainerstore.com/
http://www.crateandbarrel.com/
http://www.potterybarn.com/http://www.pier1.com/
http://www.designpublic.com/
http://www.2modern.com/
http://www.zgallerie.com/
http://www.overstock.com/
http://www.pillowsandthrows.com/
http://www.burkedecor.com/
http://www.nambe.com/
http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/
http://www.target.com/
http://www.ikea.com/
http://www.rossstores.com/
http://www.tjmaxx.com/
http://www.michaels.com/
http://www.joanns.com/


If you have questions or topics you are interested in email me at questions@yourharmonydesign.com.

Accessory Arrangement

Now that the room is painted you have all of the accessories waiting to be placed, but where to begin.

First, decide if all of the existing accessories will be used and if any new ones will be added. Then start preliminary groupings of the accessories to be sure that it is going to work the way you want. This keeps nail whole repair to a minimum. Make sure when grouping your items they are in odd numbers (one's, three's, five's, etc). This gives your décor that finishing touch and professional finish.


Now that your accessory arrangements have been grouped, think about placement. There are four ways in which arrangements are done: symmetrical, asymmetrical, radial, and stepped.


A quick example of each grouping style. Symmetrical: A sofa with the same lamp and end table flanking each side. Asymmetrical: A mantel with a tall item on one side and shorter item on the other. Radial: Wall grouping with objects stemming from a central point and coming out in a circular fashion. Stepped: A group of pictures as you head up a staircase.


If you can't decide on one arrangement style no worries, you can mix and match. But, don't get carried away. I suggest only doing two in a space, especially to start with.


Last, keep in mind visual weight. Even though objects may not weigh a lot on a scale, they may look like they do. If you had a large picture hung it would look heavy compared to a smaller picture. In order to balance these pieces out you would need to hang the large picture with a grouping of smaller ones next to it.


When arranging your accessories remember odd numbers of objects in a group and to have the visual weight balanced, for harmony to be achieved throughout your space.


If you have any questions or topics you are interested in please feel free to email me at questions@yourharmonydesign.com.

Here is a great Better Homes and Garden article I found that has some expanded information on accessory arrangement: http://www.bhg.com/decorating/home-accessories/collectibles/tips-on-arranging-accessories/