Expert advice to help you create beautiful, functional spaces at home
Foundational concepts that every homeowner should understand
The relationship between furniture size and room dimensions determines visual harmony. A common mistake is choosing pieces that are too small for the space, making rooms feel disconnected and awkward.
Measure your rooms before shopping. Allow at least 30 inches for walkways. Large rooms can handle substantial furniture, while small spaces need carefully scaled pieces that don't overwhelm.
Grouping objects in odd numbers, especially threes, creates visual interest and balance. This applies to everything from throw pillows to artwork arrangements to decorative accessories on shelves.
Try clustering three candles of varying heights, arranging three frames on a wall, or styling a coffee table with three books stacked with a small object on top.
The classic approach uses a dominant color for 60% of the room, a secondary color for 30%, and an accent color for 10%. This creates cohesion while allowing personality to shine through.
Your walls typically carry the dominant color, upholstery the secondary, and accessories the accent. This framework prevents color chaos while encouraging creativity.
Tailored advice for different areas of your home
Arrange seating to encourage conversation, ideally within 8 feet of each other. Float furniture away from walls in larger rooms to create intimate groupings. Ensure traffic flow doesn't cut through conversation areas.
Keep electronics minimal and invest in blackout curtains for quality sleep. Place your bed as the focal point, ideally opposite the door. Use bedside tables of equal height to the mattress for functionality and symmetry.
Maintain the work triangle between stove, sink, and refrigerator for optimal flow. Keep counters as clear as possible, storing appliances you use less than weekly. Use vertical space with open shelving or tall cabinets.
Maximize storage with over-toilet shelving, drawer dividers, and vanity organizers. Use matching containers to corral small items. Add a stool or small ladder for decorative towel display and extra storage.
Transform your space without breaking the bank
A fresh coat of paint offers the biggest visual impact for the least investment. Consider an accent wall in a bold color, painting kitchen cabinets for a new look, or using paint to create architectural interest where none exists.
Replacing cabinet pulls, door handles, and light switch covers instantly modernizes a space. Choose finishes that complement your fixtures. This simple swap takes minutes but changes the entire feel of kitchens and bathrooms.
New throw pillows, curtains, or an area rug can completely shift a room's color scheme and style. These items are easy to change seasonally, letting you refresh your space regularly without major investment.
Learn from these frequent missteps we see in homes
Creates a bowling alley effect and disconnected feeling
Makes spaces feel choppy and disjointed
Creates visual disconnect from furniture below
Leaves rooms feeling unfinished and stark
Results in harsh shadows and flat ambiance
Simple ways to update your home throughout the year
Lighten your space with sheer curtains, fresh flowers, and pastel accents. Deep clean and declutter, storing away heavy winter textiles. Open windows to welcome natural light and fresh air that revitalizes every room.
Incorporate natural elements like seashells, driftwood, or fresh greenery. Switch to lighter bedding in breathable fabrics. Use bright, cheerful colors in accessories while keeping the base neutral for cooling visual effect.
Layer in cozy textures with knit throws, velvet pillows, and wool rugs. Add warm metallics through candleholders and picture frames. Display seasonal elements like branches, pinecones, or gourds in simple vessels.
Our team can help you implement these ideas and create a personalized design plan
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