Design Tips

Space Saving Ideas for your Children’s Bedrooms

Wednesday, January 25th, 2012

Children's Bedroom Space Saving Ideas

Finding space to store all of your children’s precious belongings can be a real chore. Use your imagination to enlarge the space in a child’s room and find extra spots to store their toys.

  • Utilize your space wisely with a captain’s bed which is equipped with storage drawers under the mattress.
  • Bunk beds are terrific space savers and luckily, kids love them. Discover the unused space at the end s of the bed and underneath when looking for storage. Place a bookcase at the end of the bunk to house books, stuffed animals and other toys. By using an open bookcase, items can be accessed from either side.
  • Incorporate an art easel at the end of the chest of drawers with paint trays and brush holders mounted at the bottom of the easel.
  • For adolescents, fit a loft bed over a desk and dresser. Paint the underside of the loft bed a funky color for a cool vibe. Ensure that the loft bed is properly attached to the wall so that it can support more than one child as this will certainly be the place all your children’s friends will want to hang out.
  • Maximize closet space with closet organizers.  Smaller children’s clothing can be hung on two rows of rods. His is an effective way to double the space.
  • Shelves, whether built-in or portable, add extra storage. Use baskets on shelves to keep toys neat and organized.
  • Place a brightly colored coat hooks by the doorway to keep coats, backpacks, purses from lying on the floor.  Remember to hand the hooks at a height that your children can easily reach.
  • Store off-season clothes or infrequently used gear on the upper shelves of the closet.
  • If closet room allows, consider painting a dresser to match the closet and place it in there.  This will free up space in the bedroom for other pieces of furniture or play space.
  • Too many stuffed animals to keep track of? Colorful netting hung from the ceiling in a corner of the bedroom can keep these little critters form being strewn all over the place.
  • Use bulletin boards to display important messages, photos or artwork your child has produced.
  • Cardboard, metal or plastic magazine holders are an effective way of keeping magazines, books and papers properly organized.

Photo Courtesy of:  http://blog.ceramiccreation.net/2011/02/how-to-find-more-space-in-your-kid’s-rooms/

For more home decorating ideas log onto www.isearchdecor.com

About iSearchDecor
iSearchDecor provides a free concierge service helping homeowners in Phoenix and Dallas find the perfect resources for furniture, flooring, accessories, and window coverings along with service pros such as remodelers, painters, carpet cleaners and more at HUGE SAVINGS!


Visit us online at www.isearchdecor.com
Call us at 480-619-5505 (Phoenix area) or 1-855-774-7327 (Toll-Free)

Coming to additional U.S. cities in 2012


Home Office Decorating Tips

Monday, December 26th, 2011

Traditional-Home-Office-Design

Your home office can often be the last room in your home to decorate.  Although it is a space where more people are spending a larger majority of their time, it is often the space that eludes people when it comes to decorating. Quite often it is the “catch all” room that serves as more of a storage space than what its actual purpose is.   How do you mix design with the corporate “function” of the space?  How do you link professionalism with comfort? Following these few tips will help you achieve this task.

  • There are a few essentials that every home office needs: a proper work station, adequate lighting, ample storage, and sufficient space for computer equipment and other electronics.
  • Position your desk in a strategic place to optimize light, comfort, and flow in the room. Invest in a comfortable office chair with casters for easy movement.
  • If space is tight, consider an armoire desk that takes up less area and can be closed up when you are not working. This can be especially useful if the room is being used for more than one purpose such as a guest bedroom.
  • Ensure the furnishings, wall color, and accessories are visually appealing and make you feel comfortable while motivating and inspiring you to be productive and creative.
  • Soften the “corporate” look of the room with family photos, plants and some personal effects.
  • If space allows, consider a wall of bookshelves with open shelving as well as closed cabinetry to house files, paper, print cartridges and other office supplies. This will not only keep you organized, it will look fantastic!
  • Your home office does not need to be expansive to be effective. It just needs to have the basics in a functional and organized manner. Adding your own personal twist will make it uniquely your own.

For more decorating tips or to find home office furniture retailers log onto www.isearchdecor.com.

About iSearchDecor

iSearchDecor provides a free concierge service helping homeowners in Phoenix and Dallas find the perfect resources for furniture, flooring, accessories, and window coverings along with service pros such as remodelers, painters, carpet cleaners and more at HUGE SAVINGS!

Visit us online at www.isearchdecor.com

Call us at 480-619-5505 (Phoenix area) or 1-855-774-7327 (Toll-Free)

Coming to additional U.S. cities in 2012

Decorating High Ledges and Spaces

Thursday, December 22nd, 2011

Ledges and High Places Image

A common decorating dilemma is what to do with high ledges and empty spaces.  The following ideas will show you how to turn these forgotten areas into decorative showcases.
·         Look up! Are there cabinets, armoires, niches that could use a little pizzazz? Highlight these spaces with interesting groupings of baskets, glassware, candles, or collectibles.
·         Color and texture are essential to the visual interest of the display. Mix it up with diverse sizes, colors and materials.
·         To create a lofty focal point, add simple arrangements of items you find interesting. Items need not be expensive.  Their sentimental value, charm or whimsy makes them valuable parts of an attractive collection.
·         High spaces are perfect for storing fragile items where they can remain visible but out of harm’s way. Use plate holders to secure fragile objects.
·         Your kitchen is a perfect place in your home to decorate high ledges and empty spaces.  Create groupings of glass bottles, pottery, grapevine branches and framed pictures of various sizes to draw the eye up.
·         Because the view is slightly distorted when you look up to see the display, remember to keep larger and taller pieces to the back of the shelf and smaller items should take a prominent front seat.
·         Keep enough space between each of the items so that each can be appreciated but still give a sense of cohesion.
·         Add a seasonal twist. Create a Fall display of colorful foliage, gourds and pumpkins or a magical Christmas array of scented candles, pine boughs, holly branches and wooden nutcrackers.
·         Add directional lighting to spotlight these eye-catching spaces.
·         Showcase your special interests, hobbies and imagination on top of hutches, dressers or armoires. This not only creates visual appeal it is a reflection of your own unique personality.
For more design tips go to www.isearchdecor.com.

_______________________________________
About iSearchDecor
iSearchDecor provides a free concierge service helping homeowners in Phoenix and Dallas find the perfect resources for furniture, flooring, accessories, and window coverings along with service pros such as remodelers, painters, carpet cleaners and more at HUGE SAVINGS!

Visit us online at www.isearchdecor.com
Call us at 480-619-5505 (Phoenix area) or 1-855-774-7327 (Toll-Free)
Coming to additional U.S. cities in 2012

Creating Mood in your Home with Lighting Design

Monday, December 12th, 2011

LIghting Design

There is no better way to create a mood in your home than with lighting design. It is important to keep in mind the function of the space as well when choosing lighting in your home.  Consider the following tips when determining proper lighting design for your home.

  • Have a clear idea of what you want your home to look like and devise a lighting plan. Professional lighting designers can help you design a functional lighting scheme that takes into consideration light from natural sources as well as artificial light.
  • Have more than one lighting option in each room. i.e. mood lighting in your master bedroom as well as task lighting for reading.
  • Consider using dimmer switches in spaces such as your dining room to create ambience while being able to control the intensity of light.
  • Make sure there is enough lighting in each space. How much is enough? The rule of thumb is 200 watts of light for every 50 square feet of space. Kitchens require light in every square foot of the space.
  • There are many different types of bulbs that can be used in recessed pot lights and lamps. Incandescent, fluorescent and halogen are a few and vary in light intensity, color of light and energy usage.
  • When choosing lighting, take into consideration the color on the walls, ceiling and the other solid surface hues that may absorb light or reflect it.
  • Don’t forget to use accent lighting to highlight specific pieces of art or architecture in your home.
  • Under-cabinet lighting in your kitchen is an excellent source of task lighting and is hidden from eyesight. Track lighting is another form of directional lighting that can be used for tasks.
  • When designing lighting for your bathroom ensure there is enough natural light and compliment that with sconces near the mirror with high voltage capacity for applying make-up.
  • Consider waterproof lighting in your shower and ambient light near your tub so that you can enjoy a relaxing soak.

Lighting design is a very important aspect in creating mood and ambience in your home.  To locate a lighting design professional, log onto www.isearchdecor.com.

About iSearchDecor

iSearchDecor provides a free concierge service helping homeowners in Phoenix and Dallas find the perfect resources for furniture, flooring, accessories, and window coverings along with service pros such as remodelers, painters, carpet cleaners and more at HUGE SAVINGS!

For more design tips visit us online at www.isearchdecor.com

Call us at 480-619-5505 (Phoenix area) or 1-855-774-7327 (Toll-Free)

Coming to additional U.S. cities in 2012

Top 10 Design Accessory Must-Haves

Saturday, December 10th, 2011
Courtesy of Southern Home

Courtesy of Southern Home

Every home, regardless of size or grandeur, must have the following top 10 design accessories to enhance the living space and make it feel warm and inviting:

    1. Cushions.  Lots and lots of cushions on your sofa, armchairs, floor, you name it.  Mix and match colors, textures and sizes to create visual appeal and a real sense of comfort.
    2. Candles. Create ambience with groupings of candles in various shapes, sizes and colors. Tealights, votives, pillars, round, square, or liquid, the options are limitless.  If you are sensitive to the scent of candles, most manufacturers make scent-free varieties for you to enjoy.
    3. Rugs. Area rugs create visual interest through their design, texture and esthetic appeal.  Area rugs can be placed in virtually every room of your home to create a warm and cozy atmosphere.
    4. Plants. Need to fill in that empty corner? Do you have a desire to bring the outdoors in? Do it with plants.  Either living or artificial, plants provide a sense of peace and tranquility.  If you do not have a green thumb, most high quality, artificial silk plants look like the real thing.
    5. Mirrors.  Every home needs mirrors.  They can alter the dimensions of any space by making rooms feel larger; hallways longer; and can reflect light into dark spaces.
    6. Personal collections.  Make your home your own by displaying personal collections of items that mean the most to you.
    7. Artwork. From posters to oil paintings, photography to sculpture, artwork is a vital component of any home.  It not only fills up unused wall space, it gives an indication of the homeowner’s personality and taste.
    8. Reading material. Whether you are a classical book lover or only enjoy reading the cover of your favorite magazine, displaying reading material throughout your house gives it that comfortable, “lived in” feel.
    9. Family photos.  Show off your family by displaying groupings of family photos on a wall, sofa- back table or shelving.
    10. Fresh flowers. Not only do fresh flowers look beautiful they emit such a lovely fragrance how could you decorate your home without them?  Choose seasonal varieties that are low maintenance, long lasting and eye-catching.

      For more design tips visit www.isearchdecor.com.

      iSearchDecor provides a free concierge service helping homeowners in Phoenix and Dallas find the perfect resources for furniture, flooring, accessories, and window coverings along with service pros such as remodelers, painters, carpet cleaners and more at HUGE SAVINGS!

      Visit us online at www.isearchdecor.com

      Call us at 480-619-5505 (Phoenix area) or 1-855-774-7327 (Toll-Free)

      Coming to additional U.S. cities in 2012

      Paint Color Trends for 2012 – Which Hue is New?

      Thursday, December 8th, 2011

      Paint Color Wheel

      Paint Color Trends for 2012

      What hue is new?

      Looking to have your home painted in the New Year? The following color palette ideas will give you a sense of what hue is new in 2012!

      • The color palette in home décor for 2012 will be geared to shades that reflect nature.  Greens from native plants and trees, earth tones from the desert landscape, and sea-glass blues mimicking the clear sky will guide you to what the trend is for the coming year.
      • This year is all about bringing the outdoors in through color and design using nature as your model. Colors will be toned down, offering subtle, subdued hues to please the eye.
      • Don’t be afraid to mix and match colors that are close together on the color wheel.  Nature itself is not a single color.  It is a combination of many shades of colors and so should we do in design.
      • Texture and patterning is also making a comeback in 2012.  Stenciling will be popular with color blocking techniques, lacy designs and hound’s tooth finishes taking the forefront.  Don’t be afraid to experiment with various forms of paint texture and pattern in your home design.
      • Even though there are new paint colors and trends for 2012 some things will remain the same.  Using a high quality acrylic latex paint will still offer the best finish and value for the homeowner. Hiring a professional painter through iSearchDecor will guarantee you a job that is done properly giving you the ultimate results.

      About iSearchDecor

      iSearchDecor provides a free concierge service helping homeowners in Phoenix and Dallas find the perfect resources for furniture, flooring, accessories, and window coverings along with service pros such as remodelers, painters, carpet cleaners and more at HUGE SAVINGS!

      Visit us online at www.isearchdecor.com

      Call us at 480-619-5505 (Phoenix area) or 1-855-774-7327 (Toll-Free)

      Coming to additional U.S. cities in 2012

      The Holidays are Here…Treat Your Company to Guest Room Grandeur!

      Monday, November 21st, 2011

      Guest Room Tips

      Ding-dong…the doorbell is ringing and guests are arriving for the Holidays. To make your company feel extra special while staying in your home, try a few of these tips to provide comfort and enjoyment to those who mean the most to you.

      • Make sure you have fresh, soft, fluffy towels to give your guests the ultimate in luxury.
      • Your guests will feel truly pampered when you adorn them with a warm, cozy robe and slippers to relax in.
      • High thread count, luxurious, crisp sheets will make your guests feel like royalty.
      • Spraying your linens with a hint of lavender will leave your guests feeling a sense of calmness and tranquility as they fall asleep.
      • Leave a goody basket filled with items you know your guests will enjoy: a bottle of water, some reading material, bubble bath, and mouthwash for example.
      • Have a photo of you and your guests in the guest room.  It will be a reminder to them of how special they are to you.
      • Clear out the closet so that your guests have a space to hang their clothing during their stay.
      • Display an arrangement of fresh flowers to bring your guest room to life.  It will not only be pretty to look at, it will also provide a beautiful fragrance to the room.
      • Place a chocolate kiss on their pillow.  They 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.

      About iSearchDecor

      iSearchDecor provides a free concierge service helping homeowners in Phoenix and Dallas find the perfect resources for furniture, flooring, accessories, and window coverings along with service pros such as remodelers, painters, carpet cleaners and more at HUGE SAVINGS!

      Visit us online at www.isearchdecor.com

      Call us at 480-619-5505 (Phoenix area) or 1-855-774-7327 (Toll-Free)

      Coming to additional U.S. cities in 2012


      “Home” for the Holidays

      Saturday, November 5th, 2011

      Holiday Picture

      With only a few short weeks left until the festive season is upon us, now is the time to make plans to decorate your home for the holidays. Whether or not you choose a theme for your entire home or you only pick a few items to display, here are a few tips on how to create Fabulous without Fortune this Christmas Season.

      1. Make a fantastic first impression right from the front door. Think about wrapping your front door with Christmas gift wrapping paper. Create a giant bow and tie it around the door. Don’t forget a beautiful wreath made from natural elements such as pine cones, balsam twigs and dried berries.
      2. Decorate a small tree at the entrance way.  It is a lovely way to greet guests as they arrive. Display ornaments on it that have been given to you by special friends and loved ones.
      3. Decorate a wreath filled with kitchen gadgets, cookie cutters, and small utensils to add Christmas Cheer to your kitchen.
      4. A footed clear glass bowl piled high with colored glass tree ornaments makes a pretty centerpiece in place of flowers. Fill vases with water and cranberries for a beautiful eye catching accessory.
      5. Cluster several candles on a shelf in front of a wall mirror, or use a small mirror as the candle tray. Use flameless or battery operated candles in vases to create the same glowing effect for a fraction of the price.
      6. Plan a party around your theme…Winter Wonderland, All that is Glitter and Gold, Candy Cane Lane, The Colors of Christmas are a few ideas.
      7. Have a simple holiday decoration in every room that your guests will enter. Use a pretty wreath on the door of the room where they’ll leave their coats, a glowing candle in the powder room, a beautiful poinsettia in the kitchen, a small arrangement on the hall table.
      8. Let the aroma of Christmas fill the air. Delight houseguests with the warm scent of a mulling spice bag using cloves, allspice, cinnamon sticks, and nutmeg with dried orange and lemon peel simmering in a pot of water.
      9. Keep traditions alive. Display items that have significant meaning to you and your family in a suitable place for all to enjoy.

      Log onto http://www.isearchdecor.com/design_tips/ for more home decorating tips and ideas.

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      Tips for Avoiding the Bedroom Blahs!

      Monday, October 31st, 2011

      Bedroom FurnitureIf your bedroom is as tired as you at the end of the day, it is time to give it a fresh new feel that you will enjoy coming home to! These simple tips will help you create a comfortable, relaxing retreat without spending a fortune.

      • The bed is usually the major focal point in the room. Keep walls and flooring neutral in pallet and create visual interest and drama with linens, comforters, throws and cushions.
      • Textures incorporated in a bedroom create the feeling of comfort. Depending on your design style, this can be achieved through rugs, linens and various types of bedding fabrics.
      • Add pattern to liven up a space.  Choose a combination of stripes, florals and damasks to give energy to the space.
      • Update your headboard. Reupholster it, paint it, or create a new one by using refurbished materials.
      • Mix and match furniture.  Not everything needs to be the same.  Incorporate side tables, lamps and accessories from other rooms in your home.
      • Rearrange the furniture in the room. Angle your bed to change the flow.
      • Wallpaper is making a comeback. Use it to highlight a wall giving attention to a specific area, such as a reading nook.
      • Create ambience with lighting. Choose lamps that give a soft and subtle glow.
      • Break up a large wall with crown molding or wainscoting.
      • Use draperies and swags for a formal feel in your bedroom, curtains and shades for an informal feel and blinds for a contemporary look.

      Visit www.isearchdecor.com or call 855-774-7327 for more home decorating and remodeling ideas. We match homeowners to top local vendors at special savings for FREE!

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      Wonderful Window Treatment Ideas

      Saturday, October 29th, 2011

      Window Treatment Tips

      Putting the finishing touches on a room is what makes it feel complete, comfortable, and elegant. Window treatments are one of the finals steps in creating the mood in your home. Your choices will reflect your individual taste and decorating style.

      When choosing window treatments for any room take into consideration these 4 factors: function, style, privacy and light control.

      • What look are you trying to achieve?
      • What is the purpose of the room?
      • How much natural light do you require in the room?
      • What is your decorating style?
      • Do you need your windows to look larger or smaller?

      There are a multitude of different window treatments to choose from: swags, valances, cornices, blinds, shutters, pleated shades, roman shades, jabots, silhouettes, and scarves are just some of the types.

      Color, design and texture are also very important considerations when picking window treatments. You can match existing carpets, furniture and paint color or choose colors that complement the existing pieces in the home. Reds and purples create passion, greens and blues promote calmness and relaxation, and lighter colors give the appearance of space.

      Window treatment hardware is another detail that you should not overlook. There are various styles, finishes and functions of window covering hardware including sconces, cornices, tiebacks, decorative rods and rings to name a few.

      Take your time when picking out your window treatments as it is a major investment and something that will be a feature in your home for years to come.

      To find professional window treatment specialists:

      Visit www.isearchdecor .com

      or

      Call 855-774-7327

      We match homeowners with pre-qualified local merchants and vendors offering special saving for free!