Dealing with small spaces is a challenge that most of us have, especially city dwellers. Here are my top 3 design tips on how to handle smaller spaces:
1. De-Clutter.
2. Choose light colors for wall, trims, moldings, and doors. Whatever you use for the walls, try a slightly lighter version of that for your ceiling.
3. Select an uncomplicated color scheme. Too many colors in a small space will create a frenetic energy.
Yes, painting your house can be expensive.
In my business, I've found it to be a common expense that many people try to cut corners on...and end up paying for twice when they have to do it again. Granted, getting painting quotes can be confusing; everyone and their aunt has "a guy that you just have to use", and at the end of the day you will end up collecting estimates from both ends of the spectrum. Some will seem ridiculously cheap, while others will be so high that your eyes will literally fall out from your skull.
My tip this Tuesday for gathering painting quotes is to make sure that you are comparing apples to apples.
Remember, each contractor has a different definition of what a good paint job actually is.
Low quotes can oftentimes be basic tape and spray jobs that don't account for primer, rough plaster, chipped moldings, or even sanding off existing layers of paint -- believe me I've seen it ALL.
Of course, how detailed you'd like to get on a paint job is based on your personal preferences. But today's tip is to compare the work scope of your quotes....and not just the bottom line. I would also highly recommend visiting sites of your contractor's previous jobs to get a sense of their quality...and of course make sure they are licensed and come with referrals.
Among the most common mistakes in home design is starting with a paint color. Yes, you read this right: starting with paint = no, no. This may be okay for some commercial projects, but if you rush out and paint your dining room before you select your furniture, you're really backing yourself into a corner by limiting your fabric choices.
There are literally endless paint colors to select from. But there is really only a limited amount of fabrics that may work for your design scheme (color, pattern, budget, availability).
I always begin by selecting the main fabric for a room (usually drapery or sofa). This fabric selection will be the basis for all other fabrics, finishes, and paint color. So, if you have a general idea of what color you would like a particular wall to be (ie. red), then start by searching for a fabric that would work well with red. Once you've finalized this fabric choice, then you can select the perfect shade of red that works with your fabric. Trust me, it's a lot more cost efficient to custom mix a paint color (many vendors won't even upcharge you) then it is to make a custom fabric.
We've had great response with our recent Renovation Style cover editorial. The Gatsby Chairs in particular (in foreground) have been a big hit this month - they also made their small screen debut this month in Curb Your Enthusiasm.
