Blog

April 20, 2011

Let’s say you’ve decided to do a project and are at the “now what?” place. (This scenario assumes you are working with a professional.) It’s time to set some priorities- which can be in many areas. For example, timing- do you want your project done because a wedding, graduation, holiday, or other big event is coming up? Then a timeline needs to be set so the project will be completed in plenty of time. Even if there is no specific event, setting a deadline is helpful to keep the project on track.
Then, there is the money you are planning to spend. If you are thinking of a figure before the space is designed and before preliminary cost estimates come in, it’s best to leave yourself a cushion.

Then, there is the project itself and we go to:

1. Function- how is the space to function and what family needs and wants will be met in this space?
2. Mood- lively, quiet, comfortable, elegant.etc. The mood is accomplished with the use of color, materials, style and scale of furniture, lighting, use and scale of pattern, use of art.
3. Theme-ocean, flying etc…almost any hobby or special interest can be integrated into a specific area.

An orderly way to begin the project (after space planning is done) is with the “background” of the space- the walls, floors, ceiling. Work from there to furniture layout, to lighting, to materials (tile,stone,wood) selection, to colors of paints, wallcovering, fabrics and trims.
Then the project begins to come together and the end is in sight.

Coming to a decision is often what takes the most time and sometimes angst. For example, when you see the color scheme that you LOVE (hold out for that)-not the one that is just OK- be assured that you are making a good decision. Then, move on to the next choice, then the next. When it is all together, small adjustments may have to be made but you’ll be on your way to an end result that will bring great satisfaction to you and your family.

Our best to you,
Carol