Monday, December 16, 2013

Fabrics, Textures, and Materials: What are some of their names?

I'm sure you've come across the name of a fabric that was unfamiliar to you and thought, "What does that look like?" How many times have you seen the fabric after you've learned the of name and though "Ah! So that's what it's called!" I know that has happened to me many times!! Here are just some of the fabrics, textures, and materials, and their corresponding names. I can't list them all. The world of Textiles and their terminology is huge!! There are just too many out there, but this may help.

Jacquard


Lame


Matelasse


Moire


Boucle


Brocade


Chambray


Crewel


Batik


Burn-Out velvet


Chintz


Some names you may recognized, others you may not. The world of textile and fabric is a huge one. Decoding the names may be at bit overwhelming!! Arming yourself with knowledge is key to deciphering that code. But let's face it, that is a daunting task!! This is a good start!!





At Abella Home Staging & Redesign, we believe any home can be beautifully transformed. We believe in delivering a custom-made look, but without the custom-made price tag!! Call us and let's get started today!!

Monday, December 9, 2013

Eight Biggest Design Mistakes People Make!

As an Interior Decorator and Home Stager, I have seen my share of homes! Many times the mistakes people make are the same. Sometimes, they are easy to fix. Other times, not as much!! By knowing what to do, and what not to do, you can avoid these mistakes.

1. Furniture. Having too much or not enough. Most of the time it's too many pieces. To avoid the
    mistake of having the furniture not fit, measure the room first. You would be amazed at how many
    people DO NOT do this simple task!!


2. Color Scheme. Often it's a lack of color. Or they add color, but it's in one area only. For example; 
    yellow pillows on the sofa and but no where else. Notice how you eyes linger on those yellow 
    pillows? 


3. Wall Art. Most of the time, people hang wall art too high.  Good rule of thumb, 60" from floor to center of the picture. With an exception of wall art hanging over the sofa, then it's 8" off the sofa.



4. Clutter. Nothing ruins a good design faster then clutter. Less is more!!


5. Lighting. Here's a formula you can follow, when deciding if you have enough light in a room. 
    Multiply length x width of the room, then multiply 1.5 = wattage.  For Kitchen, multiply 2.5 
    instead of 1.5 for wattage. Don't forget about ambient lighting.


6. Focal Point. Each room should have a focal point. In the bedroom, it's the bed. In today's home,
    the TV seems to be the focal point. Group your furniture around the focal point, and if necessary, 
    use an area rug to ground the space.


7. Matchy-Matchy. A look that is outdated and boring!! Add piazza and character to your room by 
    designing a room that co-ordinates rather then match.


8. Accessories. Don't line your accessories in a row. Instead, group them in odd numbers, 3 being the perfect number. You can add in different height, texture and color (all blue but different shades of blue). Don't forget about scale.



These tips should guide you in achieving the room you desire. If you would like your room to be filled with happiness every time you walk in, contact us!

#ABELLAHOMESTAGING



At Abella Home Staging & Redesign, we believe any home can be beautifully transformed. We believe in delivering a custom-made look, but without the custom-made price tag!! Call us and let's get started today!!


Thursday, December 5, 2013

Radiant Orchid: Pantone color for 2014!

Radiant Orchid is Pantone's color of the year for 2014. Expect to see this color everywhere in the next few months. What a beautiful color!  “An enchanting harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones, Radiant Orchid inspires confidence and emanates great joy, love and health. It is a captivating purple, one that draws you in with its beguiling charm". said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. I couldn't agree more!!





So my friends out there, keep your eyes open. In the next few months, you will see an influx of Radiant Orchid out there! Will you be using this color in your design theme? Perhaps purchasing some item of clothing instead? My guess is, no matter what, you will probably have SOMETHING in this color!!

Monday, December 2, 2013

Decorating for Christmas!!

Decorating for Christmas can be a long and daunting task. I know, it takes me three days to complete the look I'm striving for, but the outcome is very satisfying!! Nothing makes it feel like the holiday then a decorated home. Are you ready for the holidays? Are you looking to change your color theme? Last year I went from a more traditional Christmas theme of Red, and Green, to a more contemporary theme of Turquoise, Chartreuse Green and White. I love it. Don't be afraid to change the look of your holiday decoration. Here is a look on how I decorate for the holidays.


My living room. As you can see, I kept the Christmas decor color the same as my living room color theme.



I love to decorate my chandelier by adding more bling!! It sparkles when the lights are turned on!!



I brought this 4' tree last year from Ballards. The perfect fit for this area of the living room.


I even decorated behind the sofa. Sort of "leave no stone unturned"!! Notice the deer theme?!!!


In the dining room, I once again decorated the chandelier. I use tie backs to hold the greenery in place. Don't be afraid to create your own.



Centerpiece for the dining room table. Uh more deer please!!


Using the decor that is already there, I add the finishing touch by adding turquoise gift box, acorns, greenery, and some glitter covered leaves. 


Once again, I use acorn, glitter covered leaves and tiny turquoise ornaments for a pop of color.


When you light the candles in those crystal candle holders, they sparkle!! So pretty!!


Centerpiece for the kitchen island.  Notice how I kept the same color theme throughout?

                                    

I created this piece by putting together branches, white balls and white flowers, to coordinate the colors for the Christmas decorations. This is one of the benefits of creating your own decor. Plus you can custom make it to fit any items you want.


                            



Finally the show piece, the Christmas Tree. All dressed up and ready for it's debut!! 





It's even prettier when it's lit!! It seems to come alive with color!! If you need help decorating, give us a call!!  Happy Holiday decorating!!





At Abella Home Staging & Redesign, we believe any home can be beautifully transformed. We believe in delivering a custom-made look, but without the custom-made price tag!! Call us and let's get started today!!