ReDESIGNS by Ava

15 Favorite Decorating Tips

“For a house to be successful, the objects in it must communicate with one another, respond and balance one another.” ~ Andre Putman

Every month I begin my article with a quote. The quote is my inspiration for what follows in my article. I collect quotes; not only about decorating but also about ‘life.’  Near my desk is a notebook where I write quotes that speak to me. I treasure that notebook. I also love collecting decorating tips that I can share with you. Tips that will help you create a beautiful home for your family.

Here are a few of my favorites:

1. Place a bench or chair on the front porch near the door to help create a welcoming entry.
2. Purchase furniture that will work in multiple rooms in case you move or your needs change.
3. Keep things in proportion when making a floral arrangement. Flowers should be 2 to 2 ½ times as high as the container in which you place them.
4. Do not toss an old dated lamp; update it by adding a new shade or repainting the base.
5. Use window treatments in patterned or textured fabrics to soften the space and reduce the noise in a room with a lot of hard surfaces, like in a kitchen or dining room.
6. Leave the decision for paint colors until the end when planning your decorating project. Gather fabrics, rugs, art, etc. and then decide on wall, trim, and ceiling colors.
7. Incorporate special items on your bookcase that have meaning to you and your family.

This helps personalize the space and tell your family’s story.

8. Don’t be afraid to mix styles and periods of furniture. To get the perfect combination, keep proportion and balance in mind when you place the furniture pieces in your room.
9. Add healthy green plants. They are always a positive addition to any room, adding life and personality to a room.
10. Place at least three lamps in a room to create a triangle. This will ensure the light is spread around the room. You can always add more than three.
11. Hang a mirror to reflect something beautiful. Be careful that it doesn’t reflect a ceiling fan or another mirror.
12. Use a set of white dishes as a very versatile kitchen accessory. Every home should have a set. Use them with white linens and crystal for an elegant dinner party or dressed down with colorful linens and glassware for a casual setting.
13. Build a room around a focal point: a fireplace, bookcase, a gorgeous piece of large art, a beautiful view, or the ‘real life’ focal point: the TV.
14. Highlight your collections by gathering them together to make a statement rather than spreading them around the house. Seeing a collection together will make a greater impact and be easier for you and your guest to enjoy.
15. Add at least one tall element in a room to draw the eye upward to the un-crowded space above.

Enjoy making your house a home where you and your family will find love, be refreshed, and encourage each other.

I am honored that you read my column each month. It is my pleasure to share decorating ideas to help you create a beautiful home. Give ReDESIGNS by Ava a call for an Interior Redesign or help with your next decorating project.