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| Design Questions |
(Debbie Clark)-
Is it possible to place a fireplace and a 60 inch flat screen tv in the same 20-32 living room? If so which should be the focal point and how do you see both, or do you make two focal points and separate the two spaces?
This is difficult question to answer without understanding exactly the design and shape of your fireplace. Most times, fireplaces and flat screen televisions are being incorporated together on the same wall if the fireplace is situated squarely on the wall. Usually, a flat screen can be mounted above the fireplace to create one focal area in a room. For this reason, you must consider the type of fireplace configuration to accommodate a layout as described. However, if you have a corner fireplace, then a flat screen can be placed in a custom unit next to it in order to create one larger focal space.
(Ranjana)- I am hoping you can help. I am currently redecorating the master bedroom, size 18'x20'. I have new furniture Cherry wood colour,the walls r dark beige, carpet is lavender , I am wondering what colour bed linen and drapes would brighten the room
my favourite colours cream/sage green/lavender. I am not planning to paint the room or change the carpet. I welcome your sugestions.
Home Link Design suggests to incorporate a bedding ensemble that has the blend of sage, lavender and beige. There are many contemporary beddings available today that have a combination of these colors. For example, there are stripe patterns available that would look great in a bedroom. Also, choose a solid bed sheet set that is one of the accent colors (sage, beige or lavender) of your choice. This will combine nicely with the entire look of your bedroom without overpowering the space.
(Sim)- I would like to get some color advice as well as sofa choice advice. Color: I would like to pick one color to flow through the entire room (formal dining/living, kitchen, and family room). We have mahogany hardwood floor that flows through the front entrance (formal dining/living) area, and into the family room. Family room and the kitchen are in one open space with an arc divider. Our kitchen cabinet is chocolate maple with tan brown granite countertop and black appliances and with very light brownish-red 12" tiles.
What color would be suitable for our wall? We want something soothing.Sofa: We are debating between leather and fabric sofas. Leather might make the family room seem a bit cold/hard where fabric might bring warmth/cozyness. Or maybe I'm totally wrong. :)
The easiest alternative to choosing paint colour is to add a neutral beige tone to the walls. Today, the mocha and soft chocolate browns are popular because of their earthy warm feel. Look at Benjamin Moore Paints for examples in the Historical paint category. Also, a good quality brown leather sofa can be cozy and contemporary. (You may also want to accent your leather sofa with throw pillows that coordinate with the existing color of your home.)
(Bhavna)-My room is fairly small, with a small window as well in one corner. The room is about 10ftX10ft and the furniture is oversized in a cherry mahogany type of color. We're repainting the room from the original "icing on a cake" (the light green colour you find as icing) to something elese, the colour should also help brighten the room. Right now, I'm thinking olivey green, the colour we picked was "the thames" by Behr. However, no one seems to agree. What would you suggest? Another thought that crossed my mind was painting the ceiling the same color as the wall...would this help to make the room look bigger?
Thanks.
Greens are very popular in today's Alpine style chalet decor with rustic and rich wood finishings! Therefore, you might be choosing the right type of color scheme. For example, the "sage" colors are very warm and inviting. However, you may want to add an accent paint color of sage to the room and use a neutral base paint color for the rest of the walls. This would give the room character without "overkill." For instance, Benjamin Moore has many new types of sage greens that would be great for an accent wall color like; Providence olive (HC-98) or Nantucket gray (HC-111). These accent colors can be coordinated with a soft neutral paint color like; Manchester tan (HC-81) or Carrington Beige (HC-93)-for the remaining walls. If you introduce a soft base color with an accent paint color, the room will not look smaller! Instead, it will create more character and interest!
(Kay)- I need to replace my fridge. My oven and dishwasher are white. Would it be okay to get a stainless steel fridge. Thanks.
Today there are many people who are slowly updating to newer appliances. With this said, it is still okay to purchase a stainless steel fridge even if you have white appliances in the kitchen. However, there are a couple of things that you can check out beforehand. Firstly, if your existing white appliances have any noticeable black color features (like black handles) , then you might want to consider a black fridge so that it coordinates better with the existing look of your kitchen. But, if this is not the case, then you might also want to consider having the front of your dishwasher paneled with a stainless steel face if you buy a stainless fridge. Most older dishwashers have a panel face that can be replaced easily to coordinate with the look of the area. (Later, you can purchase a matching oven/range when the time allows.)
(J.Kennedy)- I have a 10 year old open concept home. The main floor has natural maple hardwood floors. There are approx 6 steps that go upstairs to a bonus room(over the garage) then continue with 3 more steps to the upstairs bedrooms. I need to replace the carpet on the stairs, bonus room and bedrooms. The bonus room is used as a t.v room. I am thinking of putting hardwood on the stairs and bonus room. Can I use a different hardwood than natural maple? I was thinking of Ash or Hickory. Also, I am worried the hardwood in the bonus room will be cold since the room is over the garage.
Adding a new type of wood than an existing wood flooring will be quite different because of the differences in grain, texture and stain uniformity. It is best to maintain consistency with wood flooring in order to keep the same look, feel and flow within a home. Before installing hardwood in the bonus room, you should check to see that the room is not subjected to high levels of humidity and moisture. It is also important to check the subflooring in this area depending upon the type of finished and unfinished hardwood you select. In order to maintain heat within this room, be sure to finish your garage ceiling with double installation and drywall (if this is not already done.)
(Hannah)-How do I make my tiny bathroom seem bigger? It is very dark, has no room for more lights or mirrors. Thanks!
There are different ways to create the appearance of a larger bathroom. FIrstly, try to paint the walls and ceiling in a neutral base color in order to brighten the area. (You can add an accent paint color to the mirror wall area in order to add interest and contrast.) Try to select bathroom decor that is light and airy like; glass, stainless steel or white accents. It is important that you do not clutter a small bathroom with unnecessary items. Another idea to enhance the size of your bathroom, is to change out any old lighting that may dim the space. Try to select new light fixtures that are modern and bright. If you have a shower curtain, try to relocate the curtain rod to the top of the celing height and add longer shower curtains that come down close to the base of the bathtub. This will create the appearance of height within your bathroom that makes a dramatic look.
(Penny)- Wanting to update kitchen....still in good shape...just over 25 years old....Maybe new countertops and new flooring. Wanting "middle" of the line on budget...Any suggestions? I do have stainless steel appliances.
There are different ways to update a kitchen without having to spend money on an entire renovation. For instance, update your existing cabinetry with new stainless steel or nickle hardware like door handles and/or knobs. Also, try to replace faucets, sinks and lighting to enhance the look of your kitchen. Today there are many different modern styles of kitchen finishings that can provide an immediate upgrade and facelift to any kitchen. Another great way to modernize your space is to upgrade your countertops and backsplash with granite, slate, mosaic glass tile, stainless steel, or quality laminate. There are many new laminate countertops that appear like real stone or solid surfaces (all of which are less expensive than granite.) Try to spend quality money on at least one aspect of the kitchen like either the flooring, countertops, backsplash and/or cabinetry!
(Collins)- What is the best way to update a fireplace wall that is Old Chicago brick? There is no mantel to speak of, either, just two brick pieces jutting out that can hold a piece of wood as a mantel. Thanks!
Depending whether if you like the color of your "Old Chicago" style brick or not, there are easy ways to update a fireplace with paint! There are various ways to paint the surface of brick, but be sure to buy a high quality oil based paint like Benjamin Moore’s Satin Oil Impervo paint. A trick is to thin out the oil based paint so that it will penetrate the brick without it blistering away like regular paint. Other options for updating your fireplace is to change out the hearth (or base floor cap) of the fireplace with stone or tile and/or adding a mantel or (wood surround mantel) to the existing fireplace. Usually, a good finishing carpenter can design or box the fireplace with a mantel without any difficulties. Another new idea seen today, is adding cement surfaces to existing brick treatments. This is a modern look that uses cement to create large tiles or slats along the wall surface of a fireplace! However, you will need to hire the right contractors for the job because the preparation of the face of your fireplace needs to be done correctly for this to work.
(S. Bachoric-Regina, SK)
Our new home has kind of an awkward living room. It is 14' x 9'6". The north wall has a three-sided fireplace that runs E-W about 4' (the rest of the north wall is open to the dining room), the west wall is bare wall, the south wall has a 10' x 6' picture window (9' ceilings so only 2' off the floor) and the east wall is a 5' stub wall dividing the living room from the front entry. The rest of the east side of the room is open to the front entry. I am trying to figure out what living room furniture to purchase and how to arrange it. My instinct is to go with a condo-sized sofa along the west wall, and two arm chairs, an arm chair and chair-and-a-half, or love seat and arm chair on the east side of the room, and perhaps a square coffee table in the middle. I do not want to place a sofa along the window since it is so large and is the focus of the room. There will be no television or entertainment centre in the room. Thank you for any ideas!
This room configuration can incorporate furniture as you already suggest, but Home Link Design recommends to add the two stylish arm chairs in front of your picture window with an accent table in the middle that showcases a slender or glass contemporary table lamp. The window will not be obstructed with two chairs that are angled slightly toward the main living space. Also, you can incorporate a large square ottoman that can be used either as a coffee table and extra seating when needed. Use the west wall as the main wall to place a mid size sofa. (You may also want to consider a rectangular table to place parallel to the window and fireplace focal areas...this will lengthen the room visually. However, a square table will work too.)
(H. Robinson) I live in a basement apartment with low ceilings... and office lights! Any suggestion on how I can beautify them?
If you are able to upgrade without restrictions from a landlord or by-laws, then there are some easy light alternatives for fixing office lighting. Firstly, you can easily change out office lighting to modern track lighting. There are many great styles available today that provide brushed chrome or stainless finishings. Also,depending on the number of office lights that you need to remove, you can cover any extra lighting sockets with special metal covers without having to install track lights for every office light you remove. (Remember that you can always put back the office lights when you're ready to move out!) Secondly, if you don't like track lighting because the celiings are low, then try buying some ceiling lights that will not hang too low. However, the most professional look to improve your basement is to have "pot" lights or recessed lights installed. An electrician and drywaller will have to be hired, but this will increase the value and look of the space tremendously.
(Lyane Selman-AB) What is Celenio?
Celenio is an exlusive wood tile that is becoming popular today because of its multiple uses within interior design. It is the shape of tile, but has the look of stone, slate or leather. This product is a great way to achieve an exciting and unique look with a glueless installation process.
(Brianne Joans-N.J) Are there any drawbacks to using cork floorings?
Cork flooring is very durable and warm. There are many fantastic cork floorings today, but be sure to look at the installation and preparation process before selecting your flooring. Also, cork flooring can fade over time if your flooring is exposed to a lot of sunshine.
(J. Martheson-B.C) What are some color trends today?
Today many kitchens and bathrooms have gone dark with rich browns and blacks. However, bold contrasts with black and white have also been popular with bunches of bright colors. Another hot color is "purple" for that trendy modern look!
(Milan Bathes-FL) What is online home staging?
Online home staging is unique to Home Link Design because we offer room make overs and decor services to improve the look of your home with online services. Home Link Design can help you achieve a designer feel and look via distant delivery! You just submit your room photo and we do the rest.
(Michelle Breson-AB) How can I get a spa bathroom feel without spending too much money?
This is a great question because it can be simple to achieve that spa bathroom for less! Try to purchase accessories that look and feel as if you were in the spa. This would mean buying; white towels, natural bath mats like wood or bamboo, placing candles, white cotton shower curtains; fragrances/soaps and soothing artwork. Try to look for items that are natural and comforting. Also, remove any clutter within the bathroom that would take away from the calm feeling that you want to achieve.
(E. Emerson-CA) Where should I put my renovation dollars when remodelling a home?
This is a common question that many clients face when renovating a home. If you are watching your budget, or just want to be sure to get your dollars out later when selling, then look at two major areas in renovations; kitchens and bathrooms. Most times, people will get their money out of homes when the kitchens and bathrooms are upgraded with fixtures, hardware, appliances, flooring, cabinets, countertops and accessories. Try not to skimp on these areas because buyers will notice!
(Bill Rells-AB) What is k2?
No, this isn't a mountain for you to climb! Instead, K2 is the subfloor material usually used below our flooring surfaces like carpet or vinyl. However, be sure to check the installation of certain wood and cork floorings because K2 may be too soft for these flooring types.
(T. Olden-NV) How can I reuse furniture without having to go out and buy new ones?
Depending on the furniture, you can purchase slip covers or re-cover chairs with new fabrics. Another great way of getting a new look is to re-paint furniture. Be sure to prep first with stripping if necessary. Also, tossing throw pillows on sofas can create an instant change.
(Melaney F.-AB) What is with window coverings today?
If you mean, what is new in the world of window treatments? Then you have asked the right question! As you might have noticed, window treatments are becoming simple, but impressive with rods and long drapes and/or tab drapes. Our fabrics are becoming more interesting with sheers and shimmer, but also simple enough like cotton or linen. Another focal point is the curtain rod. The rods are bold and deep. However, if you are looking for a modern feel, then look at the panel drapes or clean lines in fabric material. The draperies today are accentuating our main features which are the windows in a room.
(Freede-NY) Should I repaint cabinets in a kitchen and bath area?
Depending upon your budget, you can get away with re-painting cabinets. However, be sure to find a professional painter who can do a great job or be sure that you prep and strip them well. The better efforts that you make on stripping and filling, the better the outcome! The less chipping will occur during time.
(E.H-CA) I need some help with trying to fill a wall with something inexpensive to hang?!
There are a lot of different ways that you can fill up a wall without having to purchase expensive art pieces. We have worked with clients in the past who like art work, but cannot afford the price tag associated with some pieces. So here are some options: try using outside branches or sticks to make an artistic back drop; try grouping small framed pictures together to make one large focal point on the wall; try a panel fabric art work or panel screens; look at different stick on murals that can even be found in Ikea; try hanging an iron frame art piece or screen; try a collection of plates depending upon your space area or try floating shelves!
(Brad Kensington-N.J) I need help with my apartment for storage?
Small spaces can be challenging, but there are a lot of options today. Look at furniture pieces that have storage compartments in them like; ottomans, tables, buffet tables, etc. There are other ways to create storage space, by placing shelves or sleek cabinetry on walls to create a build in look. Also, look at storage boxes that look more like furniture so that they can be placed out in a room as a show piece.
(Kimberley Sienes-VN) Can you tell me what colors would coordinate well with dark brown-black floors for a kids bedroom?
There are some really neat kids bedroom colors that you can coordinate with dark brown flooring. Some recent colors that are rich and inviting are pink with brown, blue with brown, purple with brown and lime w/ brown. Of course, you can combine more traditional colors like creams, reds, yellows, and whites with rich browns.
(J.Merlon-AZ) Can you place slate on exteriors of homes?
Yes, you can place stone tiles and slate outside. However, be sure to seal and prep your mesh backing properly so that rain does not loosen your product. Since you live in a hotter climate, you will have less worries than colder climate locations for cracking. There are a lot of slate homes in Mexico with humidity higher than Arizona.
(Cindy Johnson) I’m considering bamboo flooring but I’ve been told by a friend that it’s rather “passe” now and that it really doesn’t go with my more traditional décor. What’s your opinion?
(PeoplePC Online) How do you solve the TV vs. Fireplace focal point battle in a living room?
Televisions can be an eye sore in most rooms, however there are ways that you can create balance with your fireplace! First, create a focal point above your fireplace with a painting and/or accessories above the fireplace and mantel area to balance the "squareness" of the television. Placing artwork or a large print will counter-balance the t.v wall unit and fireplace area. Add interest with your decor by treating the wall unit and fireplace together in your space. Be sure to add interesting pieces on the shelves of your unit to soften the harshness of the t.v. Today, many modern rooms are incorporating the flat screens with pivotal mounts to accommodate the positioning of the t.v screen..(this will eliminate the neck strain as you mentioned.) However, if this is not your preference, then consider a few options below:
a. If your wall unit is built in, have a professional carpenter customize your unit with the addition of either sliding doors or panel glass doors to hide the television from sight. This is not as difficult as it may seem if you can add doors to your unit and it will hide your television from sight!
b. If your budget allows, changing your television to a modern wide screen can be more appealing in a room! Today, televisions have come a long way, and you do not have to mount it on the wall! The free standing flat screens are very modern and sleek!
c. Try eliminating your clutter around the television area by placing CDs, DVD's and remotes in a basket or hidden ottoman compartment. De-clutter your t.v unit with items that might make it appear messy. Use your bookcase as a showcase for decor items! Remember that less is more when decorating!
d. If you want a complete overhaul, then have your entire bookcase redone! This will be the more expensive option, but if your bookcase is not a custom build-in, then you might want to reconsider adding a quality unit for the entire look to flow together. There are even excellent prefabricated bookshelves available at different stores that have a modern look to them without being too expensive! Also, consider adding lighting within your bookcase to soften the look at night!
*Your options can be variable, however try working with your room by adding decor items that flow together and soften the fireplace & TV wall area!
(W. Brooks Barker, JD)- I live in a 4000sq foot home that was built in the 1980. The walls are made of cedar except for the bedrooms. The great room has a big two story fireplace that is made of stone. The question I have is how do I lighten the room up. The walls are too dark and it will be an issue when I try to resale the house.
It sounds like your home has a lot of character! This can be a good thing or a bad thing, but for the most part, if your walls are covered with cedar planks it may not be that bad! Today, many design styles are moving towards adding natural materials on walls and even ceilings.There is a trend that is being seen with stone feature walls and wood plank walls! Now, if you do not want to paint out your walls, then try to add decor elements that soften the look and feel of your areas. This means that your furniture, area carpets, window treatments and lighting should be neutral and brighter. Try to incorporate more neutrals within your design style. Another good idea is to make sure that you declutter your areas before selling. If you add too many items and furniture elements, then your space will feel smaller. You can also soften your walls with great art pieces that have lighter abstract tones. There are many soft white tones that would look good contrasted against darker walls. Also, if your floors are dark, you can brighten them up with a neutral color area carpet that may soften the feel of your room.
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