Home should be our sanctuary from what our high-standard world dishes out. However, if our living space is a state of chaos — with rooms lacking in cohesiveness and functionality — it becomes another one of life’s stressors.
Getting it right in your home does not have to cost a fortune, all it takes is a meditative approach. Keep these simple strategies in mind when you are ready to shake up your environment.
Budget: This dictates what you can use and what products you can incorporate into your space.
Find your style: Look at your home’s architectural features and your possessions — do they speak old world, contemporary or cottage? Once you identify your style, you can build upon it with the right furnishings, elements and color palette. Create a file of inspiring home photos to use when embarking on shopping excursions to help keep you focused.
Think function: Measure your space and draw a rough sketch, noting its focal points and scale, making a note of doorways, windows and traffic zones. Experiment with furniture templates. Consider editing out what does not work if you are using your existing furnishings.
Lighting: We find it often overlooked, but proper lighting enhances the function of your space. Determine your lighting needs, making a note of your room’s activities. Have at least three sources — task, accent and ambient — all of which should be structured in a triangular formation. Always consider natural light when selecting wall colors. For example, a north-facing room will steer you away from cooler colors and heavier window treatments.
Set forth realistic goals for yourself, approach one room at a time and have fun with it. With some thought and planning getting it right is easy.
Kat Powers and Susan Dobrovolny operate The Designer’s Co-op, a full-service interior design firm in Scarborough. Call them at 222-2023 or check them online at http://thedesignersco-op.info.