The Seven Elements of Interior Design | Part Two

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Design is more than throwing décor in a room and hoping some sort of magic happens.  There are several contemplated elements found in interior designs that are considered when creating a space.  Knowing how to spot these elements and facilitate them in your own home can give you a top-notch design.  As we saw in Part One, lines and space are crucial elements that establish boundaries in a home.  Now we will explore how forms, color, and light are vital elements that cannot be avoided when designing your space. 

Forms 

Form is the embodiment an object takes in a space.  The several ways form is classified, either geometric or natural, which consist of man-made versus organic or open and closed form, which include objects that can or cannot be seen through.  You can mix all of these forms into your home to eliminate negative space and create positive space.  Negative space is the emptiness of the house which is removed through adding “form” into an area. 

Color

Using color is a way to create a mood in the atmosphere.  All colors and combinations can change the overall psychological mindset of the area.  Learning color meaning is a great tool when designing your space.  The more you know on how each color can individually work, the better your ability to pair the perfect combinations in your own home. 

Light 

Light is extremely important in creating your home.  You can get light through windows or have artificial lights throughout your home.  Different lighting can be used throughout your home to help with your design.  Ambient lighting is used to blanket the whole space and create a clear, visible light in the area.  Accent lights are used to illuminate areas like décor or highlight artwork and sculptures.  You can use task lighting in areas where more lighting in need to perform a task, such as reading, cutting food, or painting. 

These three elements will start livening up your space and lines in the atmosphere.  You will notice how color, light, and form all add character and life to the area.  Lastly, textures and patterns are used to help the interior design.  Check out the final part of this series to learn more. 

The Seven Elements of Interior Design | Part One

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Interior design is the harmony of art and science to create not only a functional space but one that is aesthetically appealing as well.  We may not all have a keen eye for design, but knowing the fundamental elements can help improve your personal style and design.  The rules can be broken to express creativity, but knowing how and when to use them is essential for creating a purposeful and beautiful environment.  Here are the seven elements of interior design you need to know when designing your space.

Space 

Functionality is imperative to developing a well-thought out and functional atmosphere.  Nothing can make a room less inviting than a poorly-spaced or obtrusive environment. When considering your space, do not think on two dimensions but expand your conception towards the three-dimensional.  Do your furnishing and décor not only create adequate space horizontally but allow the area to feel opened vertically as well?  Your home should find the sweet spot of balance between over furnished and too empty. 

Lines 

Lines are the “meat and potatoes” of your design.  Without lines, you would not have the other elements in which they contribute to in the design.  There are three types of lines to consider in interior design: horizontal, vertical, and dynamic.   

  • Horizontal lines are the lines, which are established by being parallel to the horizon.  These can be stripes on the wall, desktops, coffee tables, or other lines that contribute to this horizontal plane.  Horizontal lines create layering in the environment and depth. 
  • Vertical lines can be formed through anything running up and down in the space.  Windows, doorways, and pillars are some of the few ways these lines are created in an environment.  This gives the room height and contrasts with horizontal lines. 
  • Dynamic lines are great for adding a dramatic effect like staircases or asymmetrical lines which ties everything together.  These simple lines are always there, but learn how to allow them to harmonize and complement each other is another challenge. 

These two elements are very vital in creating a balanced atmosphere.  All of the elements need to be in harmony with one another to form a unified space.  Check out part two to have a greater understanding of the seven elements of interior design.  If you can master all seven in your home, you have accomplished a perfectly synchronized environment. 

Nine Ways to Improve Your Master Bathroom

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Master bathrooms can be an escape from the busyness of everyday life. After a long, hard day of work, there is nothing quite like a relaxing bath to help you unwind. If you are looking for ways to create this calming oasis, we have nine ideas to help you improve your master bathroom. Let’s take a look! 

Stunning Chandelier

Set the tone for elegance and luxury with a sparkling chandelier in your bathroom. A chandelier radiates class and beauty while adding to the room’s overall decor. If a chandelier is not within your budget, try to make all of your light fixtures match. It is a simple and less expensive way to add luxury without breaking the bank.

Gorgeous Tile Work

There is no doubt that tile can transform an entire space. Adding beautiful tile to your master bathroom can transform it into a luxurious retreat. If it is within your budget, consider adding heated tile floors. Imagine the indulging warmth your feet will feel as they step out of the bathtub.

Nature’s Appeal

Plants can bring life and beauty to any space. Be sure to buy some fresh flowers and plants to place around your master bathroom for a chic look.

Delicate Features

When you are selecting your fixtures for the bathroom, look for delicate designs. Swirls and curved handles can add a touch of simple elegance to your space while being decorative enough to add style.

Skip on Wallpaper

Instead of using wallpaper, consider adding a rich, deep color to your bathroom walls. Navy blue or plum purple are colors of elegance and royalty. A master bathroom with these colors takes charge and allows the homeowner to get creative.

Elegant Color Palette

While choosing a color scheme, be sure that all of your colors are harmonious with one another. Limit yourself to three colors during the design process. Also, make sure that one of the three colors is a neutral tone. If you are looking for extra elegance, you may want to consider doing your entire bathroom in black and white.

Extra Storage

Having extra storage in your bathroom can instantly improve its functionality and usefulness. Try hanging a cabinet above your toilet to store your toiletries for optimal storage. Plus, try and keep your countertops clean for a well-kept look.

Go Vintage

Claw-foot tubs and antique mirrors can be the finishing touch that your master bathroom has always needed. Search vintage thrift shops and discover unique finds that you can use in your master bath.

Treat Yo’Self

Maximize on your bathroom’s relaxation by adding spa-like features into the space. Dim lighting, candles, and relaxing music can be just what your bathroom always needed.

What are your thoughts? How do you feel about these upgrades for your bathroom? Let us know below in the comment section.

Four Things to Avoid Before Moving into Your First Apartment

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Moving into your own place can be a very exciting journey.  Being anxious is completely normal for significant changes in your life.  Change is essential for your growth yet we resist it because we fear to fail at adapting.  This fear can cause us to make irrational and rash decisions.  If you are moving into your very first apartment, there are several beginner mistakes you need to avoid.  Knowing what to avoid can help you successfully stay on the right path and make a smooth transition into your new living environment. 

Not Reading Your Lease 

Before you move into your apartment and sign you lease, make sure you thoroughly read and understand everything.  Things may be discussed verbally but not written in your lease physically.  This can be quite messy in situations.  For example, maybe the person signing you up says dogs can live with you for no charge; however, your lease is written differently.  You may be under terms to be evicted for failure to comply with your contract in a situation that you were under the impression that you were obeying everything just fine.  Your landlord may not be the one to sign you up and you may have a sales representative not being forward with you.  Make sure you read your lease and discuss any areas in which seem questionable to you. 

Buying Everything At Once 

Once you move into your apartment, it can be exhilarating, but be smart!  There are new living demands along with a new lifestyle of budgeting.  Do not go and buy everything at once.  You are not set on a mission to design the space the day you move into your new apartment.  It is important to prioritize what you need in your apartment versus what you want in your apartment.  As exciting as it may be to get artwork, rugs, and decor, it is important to take things slow and start with all your essentials.  Time will determine what a “need” is and what a “want” is.

Furnishing for Short Term Goals 

Be cognitive that you are not just furnishing for your short term goals.  If you can get inexpensive furniture or items donated to you, take advantage of the opportunity.  However, do not buy expensive furniture that is of value to your living space now.  Unless you plan on staying in your apartment for years to come, be wise in your investments.  Perhaps your bedroom can only fit a queen size bed, but in the future, you know you want a king.  Do not spend a lot of money on furniture you will not need in the future.  Be smart and consider everything that comes into your space.
 

Buying Everything “Cheap”

Understand what is worth investing in for your home.  If you know an investment is substantial, save and buy the quality version.  Do not put yourself in an endless cycle of buying “cheap” products that continually need to be replaced or refurbished every month.  Buying inexpensive goods is a great idea for budgeting, but quality can be quantity when you are frequently replacing products.  Be wary of over-furnishing your space as well.  Perhaps, you have a small space that can fit one couch comfortably, but there is a sale if you buy three sofas as a set. Remember to consider your space and not go overboard. 

Knowing when to be wary and what not to do is a great plan to help keep you on track for success.  Do not be stressed about living on your own.  This is an exciting time, and it will bring new adventures and opportunity! Remember to save, be cognitive of credit card debt, and consider renters insurance.  All these little tips can help you successfully be a new renter!

Real Solutions: Room Dividers

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Open layout homes are becoming more common lately.  While the open space is great for creating an airy, free-flowing atmosphere, sometimes it is to your advantage to incorporate room dividers.  For example, studios without privacy walls have a bed technically inside of the living room. Maybe you do not own a studio and want to create more privacy in your home, but luckily, building a “privacy wall” does not mean you need to recreate the blueprints of your house.  There are several creative ways to create room dividers that can keep the open layout feel while providing a temporary or casual room division.  Here are some of our favorite room divider projects you can incorporate in your own home today. Let’s take a look!

Book Shelf

Adding a bookshelf to divide your space is an easy hack that can help create privacy.  Find a bookshelf that is accessible from both sides and turn it perpendicular to the wall.  These will not create a total barrier between the rooms but can still create a division.  Plus, it can help split rooms while allowing the open atmosphere to thrive still.

Frosted Glass

A great way to add privacy to a bedroom or bathroom area in a studio is by adding a frosted glass wall.  It still allows light to move throughout the space to feel open but can create privacy.  This is a great addition and can be a do-it-yourself project just by purchasing the glass and installing it.  You can even install rollers to allow the privacy wall to extend or contract.

Privacy Curtain

Incorporating a privacy curtain is great for bathrooms or even balconies.  Install a rail in which your curtains can hang.  Your rail does not have to be straight across but can be creative and have an arch or bend.  You also are not limited to just textile curtains.  Find a curtain style that enhances your atmosphere.  Metal mesh or wooden bead curtains are some the many different options you can consider including in your home.

Be creative in your room division.  Open layouts have many advantages and are an advantage for resell value.  Consider creating your own room divider in your home while allowing the space to stay open and spacious, and remember that these tricks are great for any size home.  For more great tricks and tips, be sure to subscribe to our email.

 

No Space? No Problem!

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When designing a room, it can quickly become over-cluttered not feel “big” enough.  One of the most limiting factors in interior design is a room’s size.  Space is a luxury, hence why the larger the space, the large the price tag.  Unfortunately, we cannot all buy a home to accommodate the proportions we desire.  We can, however, change the perception of the space. To help you master your current space, we have created a must-read guide. Let’s take a look!

Portions vs. Perception 

Portions are considered the constants and the fixed floor plans.  You cannot alter the dimensions of your room easily; however, perception is our eyes’ take on space value.  Interior designers love to play with perceptions to give the illusion that a space is bigger than it actually is.  For example, hardwood flooring is usually put long ways down a hall to “perceive” the hallway as longer.  Our eyes take a 3-dimensional world and portray it to us in 2-dimensions.  Our brains then use perception tactics to convey size, height, and distance.  Stripes running horizontally on a long wall will give the make the wall seem longer and lines going vertical can make the wall appear taller. 

Lights, Glass, and Views 

Our eyes take or attracted to views.  If a wall has a picture on it, we would prefer to look at the picture rather than stare at the blank wall encompassing it. Who is not to say that a window cannot be utilized like a gorgeous portrait. When natural light comes in through windows and reflects on bright surfaces, it gives our eyes the perception that a room is bigger.  The more light in a room, the bigger it will feel.

Textures and Dark Colors 

Dark textures absorb more light and take away from the room’s size.  If you paint the whole room black, it will feel confined and smaller than if you paint the whole room white.  If a rectangular room has the long white walls and the short walls dark, it will visually create a long room and widen it.  When flipping the concept though, if the side walls are dark and the short length walls are light, the room will lengthen.  Plus, ceiling height plays a significant value in how grand a room feels.  Try keeping light colors on the ceiling to maximize the room’s height.

Multipurpose Storage 

Consider having versatile storage/furniture in your room.  Perhaps a coffee table that doubles up as a storage compartment or seat with storage under the cushion.  It will allow you to keep everything in the room the is needed to keep the room functional without eliminating space.  Decluttering an area is the easiest and fastest way to make a room feel bigger! 

Do not feel limited by your space but understand how to give off the perception that your space is open and welcoming. Thanks for reading!

Genius Ways to Sound-Proof Your Apartment

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You have overheard enough conversations through your thin apartment walls. From nosey streetcars to loud neighbors, you have had it up to here with all of the noise. Fortunately, you do not need to be bothered by your noisy surroundings any longer. With our genius ways to sound-proof your apartment, you will be able to forget you even have neighbors. 

Genius Ways to Sound-Proof Your Apartment:

1. Seal Your Doors

If you are overhearing conversations from the apartment complex’s hallway, you can easily fix this with a door sweep. We recommend installing two just to be safe. You will want one on the outside of the door and one on the inside of the door. This rubber seal will help to keep drafts and noise from entering your apartment. For extra precautions, you can also seal off the door with a foam weatherstrip.

2. Absorb Noise

If you feel like that still is not enough, you can add blackout curtains over top of your doorways. The fabric will help to grab the sound waves and not let them enter into the apartment. They also work well over windows for keeping sunlight and street sound out of your apartment.

3. Block Drafts

Foam weather strips can also be used inside of your home. They will help block the drafts leading into your bedrooms and reduce the amount of noise that is spread throughout your home. They can be a perfect addition to your sound-proofing list.

4. Embrace Fabrics

Musicians understand the importance of fabrics. To help maintain unwanted sounds, you can add soft fabrics into your space and on the walls. Hanging rugs and tapestries will help to absorb more sounds.

5. Add Padding

Speaking of rugs, they can help muffle those unwanted noises. You can place rugs on hard surfaces to help absorb some of the noises that are being produced. You can even add a dense pad underneath of the rug to help remove all of the excess noises.

How do you soundproof your apartment? We would love to hear your tips and tricks below in the comment section.

How to Remove Common Carpet Stains

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Carpet can help cozy up your home and create a more welcoming environment.  Plus, carpets, today, have come a long way and can last longer than ever.  However, nothing is more disheartening than having an accident or stain ruin your new flooring, and unfortunately, not all stains are created equal.  Knowing how to treat common household stains can save you the headache of replacing your carpet or just putting up with the eyesore.  Here are several common residential stains techniques for your carpet:   

Glue 

Not all adhesive are made with the same compounds.  For most glues, scrape up as much to begin the removal process.  Then, you want the glue to harden.  Apply an ice cube to help tighten the glue and break off as much as possible.  You can also apply acetone that has been diluted in water to help remove the remaining glue or use a more natural approach with distilled white vinegar. 

Red Wine 

Time is your enemy with most stains and wine is no exception.  This stain can be quite tricky, so handling it fast is vital.  First, remove as much wine from the surface of the carpet using white paper towels.  Do not rub to clean because this can cause the wine to penetrate the carpet fibers making it much harder to remove.  You can then add small amounts of water to help dilute the red wine.  Continue to pat up this liquid and remove as much as possible.  Next, you will need to create a stain removing paste.  Mix baking soda with water until it forms a paste-like texture then apply the mixture to your stain and allow it to dry.  Use a vacuum to remove the dried paste and apply a manufacturer-recommended carpet stain remover as soon as possible.  These can be one of the toughest stains to remove so prepare for multiple attempts. 

Urine 

Use paper towels to remove as much urine as possible from the carpet.  Create a homogenous blend of water and white vinegar.  Apply it to the stain and continue to use white paper towels to soak up the liquid.  You may want to use a shop vacuum to remove the remaining urine.  It is recommended to steam clean the area as well to help eliminate the odor from lingering and staying embedded in the padding.   

Try to remove stains as soon as you notice them.  Most stains become worse over time and can penetrate deep into the carpet fibers.  Some manufacturers have created solution-dyed carpets which can be cleaned with bleach, which is another great option.  Make sure your carpet can handle the bleach before applying it by consulting with your manufacturer.

How to Remove Popcorn Ceilings

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Throughout the 1930s to the 1990s, popcorn ceilings were installed in most homes. Recently, the style has become more obsolete and out-dated, leaving homeowners wanting to remove the dated ceiling look. If you find yourself wanting to get rid of your popcorn ceiling, we have the perfect DIY project for you. Let us get started!

Supply List:

    • Plastic Tarp
    • Spray Bottle
    • Drywall Knife
    • Wet/Dry Vacuum
    • Painter’s Tape
    • Sandpaper
    • Paint + Primer

Step One

Take off any air vents and cover or remove your light fixtures from the ceiling.

Step Two

Place a plastic tarp overtop of all of your furniture to prevent staining.

  • Pro-Tip: Most homeowners find it easier to place all of their furniture into the center of the room then put one giant tarp overtop of all it. This way you do not have to buy multiple plastic tarps.

Step Three

Grab an empty spray bottle and fill it with warm water. Once the bottle is filled, lightly mist the ceiling.

Step Four

Let the dampened ceiling sit for approximately fifteen minutes.

Step Five

Taking a file, you will want to file down your drywall’s knife. This will help to avoid “gouging.”

Step Six

Attach your drywall knife to a wet/dry vacuum head.

  • Pro-Tip: You can use painter’s tape to hold the pieces together.

Step Seven

Run the drywall knife + vacuum over your ceiling to remove the popcorn look.

Step Eight

Take sandpaper and run over any leftover rough patches.

Step Nine

Now that your ceiling has been “un-popcorned,” you will want to prime and paint the area. For suggestions on paint, contact your local paint store for their advice.

Step Ten

Let the ceiling dry before you move back your furniture and put the air vents/light fixtures back in place.

Please Note: It is essential to make sure you are safe during this project. Be sure to wear a face mask to avoid potential exposure to dust and debris. Also, if you own a home that was built before 1978,  you will need to test for lead and asbestos.

Five Things to Maintain for a House Showing

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If you are putting your home on the market, you may be faced with several challenges. The biggest challenge of all is creating an atmosphere that appeals to your buyers. You want to provide them with a home that they could picture making their own. From the indoor decor to outdoor curb appeal, you want to make sure your home is in tip-top shape.  With a lot to do on your selling check-list, you may overlook your home’s maintenance. To help make sure that you have all of your bases covered, we have created a list of five things that you should take care of for a house showing. Let us take a look!

The Lawn + Walkway.

You want to take into consideration your home’s curb appeal. How does your house compare to the others in the neighborhood? Ideally, you want your home to stand out for all the right reasons. To help make sure your home is in tip-top shape, we recommend going around your yard and removing any excess branches and leaves. You will also want to take a look at your flowerbeds and make sure that it looks well-kept. Lastly, be sure that your walkway is clear of weeds and unpleasantries.

The Gutters + Roof.

An overflowed gutter can actually damage the foundation of your roof and lead to leakage in your home. To help ensure that your home stays in great shape, you will want to clean out your gutters. Afterward, we recommend hiring a professional to do a roof inspection. There is nothing worse than having a sale fall through from something you could have fixed.

The Heating + Air Conditioning.

You will want to have your HVAC system looked at by a professional before you put your home on the market. It could also be a good idea to have your chimney checked for reassurance that your home is in great shape!

The Windows + House Siding.

If you want your home to look brand new, you may want to rent a pressure washer for your windows and siding. By simply washing the exterior, you can cut down on dirt and debris; making it look brand new!

The Outdoor Decor + Seating.

Even though you are getting ready to move, you want to leave out some of your outdoor decor and seating. A home that looks lived in and shows a lot of character tends to help the buyer imagine themselves living there. Be sure to keep some seating options and decor pieces out to show the buyers what they can do with the incredible space.

We wish you the best of luck on your selling endeavors! For more expert advice, visit our blog hub at From The Floors Up. Thanks for reading!