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iSearchDecor provides a free referral service to homeowners. They provide assistance with finding the perfect resources at the right price. They have prescreened all of the vendors they refer, and their vendors offer special pricing and discounts not available to the general public. If you need quick, multiple quotes for the items on your home inspection report or if you are looking to decorate or renovate after your close, they are available to assist you at any time for FREE!
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TIP #1
Creating A Spa Feel for the Bathroom:
No matter how old and outdated your bathroom, there are ways to create an inviting, relaxing, tranquil feel in the space.
1. Use natural materials (ie. white and/or cream terry cloth towels, woven baskets and mats)
2. Add candles in neutral, earth tones
3. Incorporate aromatherapy with scented oils
4. Fill a basket with bath gels, bath salts and lotions
5. Paint walls with soothing pastel colors like feather grey or green which is emotionally balancing and connects with nature
Tips of the Trade:
– by Terence, Floorcare Specialist within the iSearchDecor Vendor Network
Carpets should be vacuumed at a rate of once per week for every person living in the home.
Carpets should be cleaned every six months to remove dust mites, bacteria, and allergens not seen by the human eye.
To receive a quote for your next carpet cleaning at special discounts, contact iSearchDecor at 480-619-5505.
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TIP #2
What is the prevailing floor among top designers?
You may have guessed it – hardwood. Some designers say 90 percent of their clients want it. Solid oak finished on-site is the top choice. Oak has an open grain which hides scratches. The surface can be refinished multiple times. Also ranking high are maple, mature bamboo and Brazilian cherry.
The impact of flooring justifies splurging. The experts caution against being too frugal with flooring. Pick a floor that is of the same budget level as the other elements in the room.
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Tips of the Trade:
Water is one of wood’s worst enemies! Use a very dry damp mop when cleaning. Excess water can seep into seams and ruin a wood floor.
To receive a quote for hardwood and other flooring materials at special discounts, contact iSearchDecor at 480-619-5505 or visit www.isearchdecor.com
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TIP #3
Need to add storage in your small kitchen?
Here are a few quick ways: 1) Install wall cabinets with a depth of 15 inches. This will increase storage by 25%; 2) Remove bulkheads and extend cabinetry to the ceiling; 3) Take advantage of area closest to the kitchen like placing a recessed pantry in an area below stairs or in a back hallway.
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TIP OF THE TRADE:
Replacing kitchen cabinetry usually requires a new countertop, an undermount sink and possibly new fixtures. Don’t forget to add this into the budget.
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TIP #4:
With the Holiday’s Approaching, Treat Your Company with Guest Room Grandeur
Here are the quick tips to make your guests feel extra special:
1. Have fresh, soft fluffy towels and a warm, cozy robe with slippers
2. Make the bed with sheets with a high thread count and spray them with a hint of lavender
3. Leave a goody basket with treats such as a bottle of wine, reading material, or bubble bath
4. Clear out the closet to provide space to hang clothes
5. Place a chocolate kiss on their pillow.
Your guests will think they are staying at a Five Star Resort and will appreciate all the little details you have put into making their stay most enjoyable.To receive a quote for new cabinetry for kitchens, bathrooms or offices at special discounts, contact iSearchDecor at 480-619-5505 or visit www.isearchdecor.com
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TIP #5:
5 Easy Ways to Create a Custom Kitchen
1. Upgrade cabinetry with furniture-quality cabinets in a custom paint color and finish
2. Splurge with custom countertops
3. Include art in the kitchen to enhance the beauty of the space
4. Improve appliances
5. Add designer details such as high-end glass tiles on the backsplash
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TIP #6:
Paint Color Trends for 2012
Looking to paint? Here are quick tips to stay up to date in the new year.
1. Work toward shades that reflect nature: Greens from native plants and trees; Earth tones from desert landscaping; Sea-glass blues mimicking the clear sky
2. Stick with colors that are toned-down and subdued
3. Mix and match colors close on the color wheel
4. Experiment with texturing and patterning through stenciling and lacy designs
5. Use a high quality acrylic latex paint
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TIP #7:
What to Consider When Choosing Carpet
There are 5 important factors to consider:
1. Level of Durability – determined by the type of carpet selected such as Nylon, Wool, Polyester, Olefin or Sisal
2. Style – multiple selections are available such as Level-Loop, Cut Pile, Multi-Level or Cut-and-Loop
3 Stain and Moisture Resistance – most American-made carpets have been treated with protective coatings
4. Density – the denser the carpet, the longer it will look like new
5. High Quality Underpad – adds to the life of the carpet by reducing the wear and tear
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TIP #8:
Considering Selling Your Home? Top 10 Staging Tips
1. Rearrange or remove some of the furniture in your home
2. Paint rooms as needed
3. Clear all unnecessary objects from the kitchen counter tops and clear refrigerator fronts of messages, magnets, pictures, etc.
4. In the bathroom, clear any unnecessary items from the counter top, tub, shower stall and commode top. Coordinate towels in one or two colors.
5. Reduce or rearrange pictures on the walls
6. Hire professional cleaners for the entire house, carpet/tile and windows
7. Hire a plumber or electrician to fix leaks or non-working fixtures.
8. Store extra possessions in the garage or rent a storage unit.
9. Leave on all lights during the day.
10. Play light FM music for all viewings.
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TIP #9:
5 Current Trends in Home Design for Baby Boomers
1. Open Concept Design, Wider Hallways, Larger Doorways
Allows for ease of mobility
2. Larger Garages
Not necessarily for more vehicles but for storage of recreational items (golf carts, boats, bicycles, etc.)
3. Built -in Resource Centers
For quick access to computer/ laptop/ ipad
4. Dual Master Suites
To house aging parents or kids who return home
5. Green Energy Efficiency
Protects the environment and cuts down utility expenses
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TIP #10:
10 Tips for Avoiding the Bedroom Blahs
If your bedroom is as tired as you are at the end of the day, these simple tips will help you create a comfortable, relaxing retreat without spending a fortune.
1. Make the bed the focal point of the room. Angle your bed to change the flow.
2. Update your headboard. Reupholster it or paint it to give it new life.
3. Keep walls and flooring neutral in pallet and create visual interest and drama with linens, comforters, throws and cushions.
4. Create a feeling of comfort through the use of texture in rugs, linens and bedding fabrics.
5. Add pattern to give energy to the space. Choose a combination of stripes, florals and damasks.
6. Create ambience with lighting. Choose lamps that give a soft and subtle glow.
7. Break up a large wall with crown molding or wainscoting.
8. Use draperies for a formal feel, shades for an informal feel and blinds for a contemporary look.
9. Mix and match furniture. Not everything needs to be the same.
10. Use wallpaper to highlight a wall or reading nook.
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TIP #11:
Creative Storage Solutions
Wondering where to put all of your “stuff”? Below are creative storage ideas for your home:
1. Utilize space underneath staircases by installing a food pantry, a writing desk, or a child’s playhouse.
2. Turn stair rises into functional slide-out drawers by hiring a professional carpenter.
3. Create a quiet study nook in an alcove space. Construct overhead dividers to store magazines, recipes or other documents.
4. Add slide-out shelves, vertical racks, lazy susans and appliance garages for additional storage in the kitchen.
5. Install low-level cabinets underneath a child’s bed.
6. Use shelving instead of a headboard to store books, photos, trophies and memorabilia.
7. Add shelving to your shower or use a caddy that hangs over the shower head.
8. Stash small items in attractive bins or wicker baskets to avoid clutter.
9. Install door-mounted racks inside cabinets.
10. Place prefabricated closet systems in rooms with limited closet space.
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TIP #12:
5 Things to Clean that are Typically Forgotten
1. Underneath and Behind Appliances
Using your crevice attachment, vacuum all the coils and underneath the appliances.
2. Telephone / Remote Control / Computer Keyboard
Antibacterial wipes are a great way to remove bacteria from these items. Use cotton swabs in crevices and hard-to-reach places.
3. Coffeemaker Reservoir
Combine equal parts of vinegar and water and allow to sit in the reservoir for 30 minutes before running through your machine. Repeat twice and rinse with fresh water.
4. Stove Knobs / Door Knobs / Light Switch Covers
Pull stove knobs off and wash in warm, soapy water to remove grease and grime. Wipe door knobs and light switch covers frequently with antibacterial wipes.
5. Kitchen Sink
Kitchen sinks harbor more bacteria than anywhere else in the home. Use an environmentally friendly cleaning product depending on the type of sink.
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TIP #13:
5 Tips for Hiring a Contractor
1. Get references from all contractors bidding on the job. Follow-up with both trade and customer references.
2. Ensure your contractor is licensed, bonded and insured. Find out if the Contractor specializes in your type of project.
3. Have a detailed contract in place before work begins. Make sure the contract lists all sub-contractors, completion date, and what the homeowner is responsible for.
4. Familiarize yourself with the Mechanic’s Lien Law- understand what you can be held liable held for if your contractor does not pay their supplier.
5. Shop locally- local contractors know the area and are familiar with city by-laws and requirements. If there is any recourse, they can be easily located.
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TIP #14:
5 Money Saving Landscaping Tips
1. Plan ahead- Sketch your landscape design on paper before you begin planting and building. Knowing exactly what you need and where you want to put it will save you valuable time and money.
2. Talk to a Pro- You may not need to hire a landscape architect or designer to develop your whole project, but getting a consultation with a qualified professional is well worth the money to avoid costly mistakes later.
3. Buy in phases– If you do not have the financial resources available to landscape your entire property at once, divide your project into phases and pay as you go with funds on hand. You will be able to evaluate your progress and adjust your plans as you move forward to the next phase.
4. Check alternative sources for plants and landscaping materials- Botanical Centers often hold plant sales and neighbors may have perennial slips they are willing to share.
5.Time your purchases- When you buy is often as important as where you buy. Save money by purchasing plants late in the season.
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TIP #15:
5 Things to Answer before Remodeling your Kitchen
1. What do I love about my current kitchen?
2. How important is the functioning of my kitchen to the rest of the home?
3. What do I do the most in my kitchen?
4. Do I entertain often?
5. What is the overall style I want my kitchen to have?
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TIP #16:
5 Don’ts of Decorating
1. Don’t Choose Paint from a Paint Chip:
Buy a quart and paint a small section to see how it looks in natural light.
2. Don’t Decide on Colors in a Store:
Take samples of paint and carpet and swatches of fabric to see them in your home. Check with natural light and with evening lamps.
3. Don’t Let Your Furniture Hug the Walls:
Make groupings of furniture and pull pieces into the center of the room.
4. Don’t Invest in Trends:
Spend money on resources that will last.
5. Don’t Settle for Cheap:
Check that furnishings are well-made, have interesting details or classic lines.
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TIP #17
5 Quick Tips for Your Home
1. Declutter
You’ve got to leave some breathing room. Every space will feel bigger if you leave some things out.
2. Arrange Closets Carefully
Well-organized closets are essential. Install extra lighting for extra functionality.
3. Make a Mirror Image
Mirrors help make any room feel more expansive, and they double the light.
4. Create Contrast With Color
Stain the floors dark, use light colors on walls, and paint the ceiling a lighter tint. This helps the eye travel up the walls giving a sense of added space.
5. Reach New Heights
Floor-to-ceiling curtains make walls seem taller and windows larger. Do this with your shower curtain to create the impression of a bigger, more luxurious shower.
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TIP #18
5 Tips for Enhancing Curb Appeal
1. Clean Up the Yard
Cover patchy lawns with new grass seed. Edge the driveway. Prune overgrown plants and trees.
2. Add Landscaping
For shrubs around the house, choose varieties that won’t grow taller than three or four feet. Plant taller bushes and trees at the edge of the house. Add a splash of color with flowers.
3. Integrate Window Boxes
Customize wooden boxes with paint or stain. Plant flowers that contrast or complement the home’s appearance.
4. Update the Front Door
Replace the front door. For an inexpensive lift, simply paint or stain the front the door. Add new door knobs, locks and knockers.
5. Install Outdoor Lighting
Install a light at the front door for safety reasons. The right light will also give the home a warm, inviting appearance.
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TIP #19
5 Questions to Ask Your Electrical Contractor
1. Check Credentials
Electrical contractors should be able to provide licensing and insurance information.
2. Request References
Get at least 3 references from recent clients. Be sure to ask about timeliness, job performance and overall satisfaction.
3. Ask About Training and Experience
Inquire about training policies for the technicians and their experience level.
4. Beware of Upfront Pricing
Pay for work only after it has been completed.
5. Get a Guarantee
Request a guarantee in writing. If you don’t get a guarantee in writing and something breaks, you may find yourself in the position of paying to fix it twice.
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TIP #20
5 Tips For Home Renovations
1. Get Everything in Writing- Make sure the details of the work to be completed are clearly documented. Any changes to the original proposal should be documented as well.
2. Keep Paint for Touch-Ups and Document– Always have your painter leave leftover paint for touch ups. Don’t forget to document not only your paint color, but also the type of paint: eggshell, flat, semi-gloss, etc.
3. Request the Contractor to Clean Up Mess Everyday- Ask your Contractor to clean daily. You won’t want to have dust circulating through your heating and cooling system.
4. Change your Air Filters During and After the Renovation– You will want to keep filters clean in order to not cause serious damage to your HVAC system.
5. Do Not Make Final Payment Until Everything is Completed- Wait until every item on the final punch list has been completed to your satisfaction before writing that final check.
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TIP #21
5 Tips For Moving
1. Take Notes- Keep a notebook to track important dates and times relevant to your move, including utility shut off and start-up dates. Keep a tally of your moving expenses and keep copies of all your receipts.
2. Make Contacts– Call your local Utility Companies, Insurance Agents, Schools, Healthcare Professionals and Post Office to notify them of your change of address.
3. Keep Records– Make a detailed list of all your valuables (cash, jewelery, important documents and photo albums). Try to transport these items yourself rather than sending with movers.
4. Pack Well– Stock up on moving supplies such as masking tape, scissors, box-cutters, bubble wrap felt-tipped markers, boxes and storage containers. Pack an “Open Me First” box with all the essentials you’ll need as you unpack including medications, toiletries, towels, linens, tool kit and pet supplies. Keep boxes under 50 lbs.
5. Remember Final Details–Do a final check of your house and property to ensure you have left nothing behind. Have payment (plus a tip) ready when you arrive at your new address.
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TIP #22
5 Ways to Maximize Storage
1. Space for Books with a Built-in Look- Three inexpensive store-bought bookcases joined with molding from your local do-it-yourself center provides plenty of space for books and has a built-in feel.
2. Closet Solutions- If closet space is tight, consider a pair of armoires on each side of the bed, painted to match the walls, giving a custom look while providing ample storage.
3. Nifty Lockers for Kid’s Rooms– A narrow stack of lockers provide a funky accessory to any kid’s room and will give added storage for books, sports equipment, and other collectables.
4. Kitchen Essentials– If storage is an issue in your kitchen consider a pot rack to hang pots, pans, and cooking utensils. Floor to ceiling slide-out pantries offer great stow-away potential, and a kitchen island with shelves is a great place to store cookbooks and other frequently used items.
5. Think Vertical– Any time space is tight, maximize the space by going vertical. Install a wall system to keep items off the floor and at eye level.
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TIP #23
8 Best Places to Add an Area Rug
A rug is more than just a place to wipe your feet; the right rug can add color, style, safety and functionality to every room in your home.
1. Front Door
Say “Welcome” with a colorful weather-resistant rug, which not only creates visual interest, but also gives your guests a place to wipe their shoes before entering your home.
2. Foyer
Show off your decorating style by laying a rug that fits the space appropriately and complements the wall color, art and accessories in the entrance.
3. Hallway
Use runners in hallways to give your home a finished look and to provide safety. Make sure to use a non-skid pad to hold rugs in place.
4. Conversation areas
Arrange furniture in conversational groups to make the space feel more cozy and inviting.
5. Dining Room
Define the space with a large area rug under your dining room table. A rug can also improve the acoustics in the room.
6. Kitchen
Place a small, washable area rug with cushioned pads in front of your oven and sink to reduce your risk of leg and back pain when standing for long periods of time.
7. Bedroom
Lay a luxurious area rug in your bedroom on either side of the bed or a larger one at the foot of the bed to add comfort and visual interest to the space.
8. Bathroom
Transform a cold tile floor by placing small, washable rugs throughout your bathroom to create a cozy oasis for your feet. Rugs should complement each other and coordinate with the room décor.
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TIP #24
How to Brighten your Space
Over time, your home can feel drab and tired-looking. Transforming your living space does not have to be a costly venture. The injection of both color and lighting can give your space a fresh, new feel without breaking the bank.
1. Introduce a bold color to an accent wall. Popular paint colors this year are orange- infused reds, watery blues, lush greens and earthy neutrals.
2. If you are reluctant to try a vibrant color, use a neutral tone on your primary walls and a more intense shade of the same color on your accent wall.
3. Update your chandeliers with trendy pendants and give a room a whole new feel.
4. Add sconces to both sides of your bathroom mirror instead of the traditional over-the-mirror bar lighting.
5. Use bold lamp shades and colorful decorative accessories to give your home a much-deserved face-lift.
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TIP #25
Simple Repairs Before Selling Your Home
Don’t wait for the Home Inspector to give you a long list of to-do’s before selling your home. Simple tasks prior to listing can simplify the process and add value to your property.
1. Detect all leaks and water problems.
2. Ensure all drains are clean and operational.
3. Replace dirty air filters.
4. Re-grout bathroom tiles, re-caulk around tub and shower and make sure glass and mirrors are sparkling clean.
5. Make sure all gates, latches and locks are in proper working order.
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TIP #26
How To Protect Your Frost Sensitive Trees and Plants
1. Know which plants in your garden are frost sensitive.
Most common are Bougainvillea, Hibiscus, Natal Plum, Cape Honeysuckle and Red Bird of Paradise.
2. Plant sensitive plants in places that minimize frost.
Favorable planting spots include south or west sides of property, near the pool, close to block walls, rocks or concrete, under roof overhangs or patio extensions.
3. Protect plants from frost damage by covering with sheets, light blankets or burlap.
Do not place heavy blankets or plastic as these may damage the plant.
4. Remove frost covers late-morning of the next day.
Don’t remove covers if it is still dark or if it is just after sunrise.
5. If frost gets to your plant, don’t remove the damaged parts.
The dead branches actually help protect the parts of the plant that are still alive. You can prune the frost damaged plants in the spring.
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TIP #27
2013 Décor Trends
Watch out 2013! Interior Design is taking a new turn with high-energy color palettes, sleek design styles and the re-invention of accessories from years gone by.
1. Hot Paint Colors
The latest for 2013 are Aqua Chiffon, Cathedral Gray, Cedar Green and Grape Hyacinth.
2. Lighting Techniques
Give your room more ambience with filtered lighting and/or dimmers.
3. Brass is Back
The golden hue of this metal provides a subtle, elegant gleam and mixes well with other metals.
4. 20th Century Furnishings
Classic, straight lines and bold new materials are the newest trend.
5. Grass Cloth Wallpaper
Believe it or not, don’t be so quick to strip the wallpaper off. The trend setters say wallpaper adds texture and coziness to any space.
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TIP #28
4 Ways to Save on Kitchen Updates
Updating your kitchen can be a costly venture but, if you follow these tips, you can have your dream kitchen on a cost-effective budget.
1. Kitchen Countertops– Kitchen galleries usually have a section for mis-cut countertops that they sell for a fraction of the original price. If they don’t have enough for all of your countertops consider doing an island with a separate piece.
2. Refinish your kitchen cabinets– Instead of incurring the high cost of installing new kitchen cabinets, consider having your existing cabinets re-stained. This not only gives your kitchen a fresh, modern look, it costs substantially less than new.
3. Update your kitchen faucet– Installing a brand new kitchen faucet modernizes the look of your kitchen. It is an easy do-it -yourself project that will add pizzazz to any kitchen.
4. Lighten up the space– Change out your pendant lights, add recessed and under-cabinet lighting to bring life to a once-tired space.
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TIP #29
5 Quick Tips for Sprucing Up Your Home for Spring
1. Start Up Front
Turn a front yard from “Blah” to “Ah” with a few key changes. Trim up bushes, plant new, colorful flowers, paint the garage door or lay new gravel in the driveway.
2. Extreme Cleaning
Steam clean carpets, tile and grout, power wash windows, and remove extra dust bunnies. By taking it one room at a time, the job will not seem so daunting.
3. Out with the Old, In with the New
Remove old, unused, unnecessary junk from the house. Have a garage sale or donate the items. This will allow the space for bringing in new more useful items.
4. DIY Projects
Browse the online website “Pinterest” for hundreds of creative ideas for potential projects. Feel a sense of accomplishment with your finished product.
5. Upcycling
Transform an old item into something new. By re-purposing vintage items, you not only save money, but you also create useful works of art.
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TIP #30
5 Quick Tips for Pet Proofing Your Home
1. Make It Safe
Prescription medication, cleaning solution, living plants, and cable wires can all be poisonous to your furry friends. These common household dangers need to be hidden or out of reach!
2. Toddler Proofing Techniques
Taking care of an animal is similar to taking care of a small child. Thus, some of the same proofing techniques can be used! Closed trash cans and cabinet locks are key.
3. Minimize Damage
Be sure to make sensible chew toys available for your companions, that way they’re not teething on your furniture! Distinguish what’s theirs, and what’s not.
4. Décor Isn’t Out of the Question
Home décor can be achieved without items out in the open. Chests with doors keep a barrier between your little critters and their potential chew toys. Fantastic wall art is another great option!
5. Keep It Clean
We all know Fido tends to be a bit messier than we’d like, but there are ways to make it easier on you. Find washable fabric for furniture, make tile areas available, and invest in a pet hair vacuum.
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TIP #31
5 Quick Tips for Dealing With a Small Bedroom
1. Keep It Simple
Too many pieces of furniture or décor in a small space can not only take up space, but also make the room appear smaller than it actually is. Be sure to pick the décor wisely, and remember that less is more!
2. Slim Furniture
Look for a wrought iron bed or smaller wood pieces so the furniture does not dominate the room. Also, be sure to avoid large, boxy sets that can take away valued space.
3. In-Closet Systems
Replace a chest of drawers with an in-closet storage system. The use of one of these will help keep everything organized and hidden as well!
4. Use Mirrors
To help combat the size of the room, use a mirror as part of the décor in order to create the illusion of a larger room. As opposed to a blank wall, a mirror’s reflection brings depth to a space.
5. Light Wall Colors
Having lighter colors on the walls with contrasting décor pieces will also help enhance the small space.
For assistance with locating local resources for your home decor or home renovation needs, contact iSearchDecor at 480-619-5505 or 1-855-774-7327.
