Interior Design Blog

Turning the TV Into Art

Sun, 07 Mar 2010 21:35:31 GMT

I always love it when I discover new twists on otherwise typical decor and design elements. Here is my latest inspiration piece - a TV easel from Restoration Hardware. What an 'artistic' alternative to the typical media cabinet! Often a television feels like an imposing or interrupting presence to the style of a space, but I think this solution helps to minimize that by creating the feeling of a gallery retreat. How fun!

Tricks of the Trade

Sun, 28 Feb 2010 19:22:45 GMT

When you are designing and furnishing a small space, there are techniques you can use to trick the eye into thinking it is larger than it really is. Take this small bathroom featured in Architectural Digest, for example. It is windowless. Yet the designer has created the illusion of greater space. One way this was done was through the use of mirrors. The reflections create the sense of more space beyond. A low-contrast color scheme from floor to ceiling also makes the elements visually recede a bit. The materials chosen for furnishings look light and airy within the space as well. All together, the elements work to enhance reality in a lovely way.

How an Online Kitchen Design Tool Can Help You!

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 02:15:07 GMT

Discover how online kitchen design tools give you invaluable insight into your project before you even spend a dime.

Special Offer: Your Own Custom Interior Design Plan

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 01:16:33 GMT

I'm happy to share some exciting news! Interior-Design-Tutor.net has partnered with Diane Kolak of Dwelement Home Design to provide an exclusive offer to visitors of this site. Now you can get a customized interior design plan for that room that's desperately in need of a makeover. You know the one. You have a sense of how you would like it to look and function but just aren't quite sure how to pull it off. Diane will create a road map to achieve exactly the kind of space you have in mind. She'll even provide you with an artistic conception of how it will look before you ever lift a paint brush. The process is fun and easy! And there are no expensive interior designer contracts to sign. Click the link below to learn more.

Neutral Color Advantages

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 01:42:48 GMT

Choosing a neutral background for your space provides a wonderful stage to feature a vibrant color scheme. A neutral background doesn't necessarily mean plain white. Light gray or tan tones combined with cream or white can create create an interesting combination that is visually more subtle than straight-up white. The other great thing about using a neutral color palette as the base for your overall color scheme is the ease with which you can change the look. When it all gets tiring, swap out decor elements for an alternate punch of color and a whole new look. This photo featured on Crate & Barrel is a nice example of a color scheme with a neutral background. The subdued wall color allows the vibrant bedspread to take center stage. I love how the dark wood of the furniture contrasts with the walls, and how the arrangement of tiny mirrors over the bed provides a fun diversion from the predictable.

Home Office: Design on the Wireless Side

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 02:39:36 GMT

Wireless technology is expanding our options for home office design. Desks no longer need to be next to wall outlets for the sake of power or internet connections. A case in point is this home office. A sawhorse desk by Ballard Design takes center stage in this stylish space. The sleek lines of the table are contrasted by a patterned fabric on desk chairs that aren't quite what you would expect to see in a typical home office. A standard cork noteboard is elevated to art status with a chic, black frame. My point? Your home work space can be free flowing, stylish and unpredictable. A laptop computer and wireless internet connection give you greater latitude with design.

Wild Style

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 02:08:24 GMT

Carpet runners and area rugs are a great element for layering a space and creating interesting pattern across an otherwise solid, floor expanse. Carpets help to soften and warm a space, making it feel more inviting. As a general rule, floral and oriental patterns coordinate well with a traditional interior while geometric patterns and color blocked designs lend a more contemporary feel. This entry hall features Stanton Carpet runners in a delightfully wild print that spices up the traditional, architectural elements without detracting from them. Whats also nice is the carpets are made of eco-friendly wool.

Living Room

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 21:32:24 GMT

Hi! I am 14, and I want to become an interior designer. This is a sketch I did of my dream living

The Color of 2010

Sat, 02 Jan 2010 01:07:56 GMT

Ready to give your space a fresh look for this new year? Consider adding turquoise to your color palette. Color authority, Pantone, has declared turquoise the color of 2010 for it's soothing effects and flattering qualities. Worried that painting a room this color might be a bit too much? Instead of applying it across large surfaces of your space, consider using it as an accent color within a more neutral environment for a degree of sophistication. Pantone notes, "Turquoise pairs nicely with any other color in the spectrum. Turquoise adds a splash of excitement to neutrals and browns, complements reds and pinks, creates a classic maritime look with deep blues, livens up all other greens, and is especially trend-setting with yellow-greens." How's that for versatility? Turquoise it is. To read Pantone's entire press release click here.

Adjusting the Color Temperature

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 02:12:23 GMT

To keep your space from feeling too warm or too cool in appearance, practice your balancing skills. The good news is its not as complicated as, say, performing a high wire act. Its simply a balance of color temperature. If your room has a primarily warm color scheme, include some accents from the cooler side of the color wheel or vice versa. The result can be significant to the overall perception of the space. I like this photo by Crate & Barrel. I think it illustrates the principle well. The warm red walls and the red, leather furniture are balanced by a cool gray floor and stainless steel accent pieces. This room would look great any time of the year, but it looks especially nice all dressed up for the holidays.

Online Interior Design School - Right for You?

Sat, 12 Dec 2009 19:56:34 GMT

Want to get an interior design degree without completely disrupting your current life situation? Learn how an online interior design school could be perfect for you.

Customizing Your Style

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 02:32:24 GMT

What gives a room its unique character? Sometimes it's the color palette or the style of flooring. Perhaps it's an unusual light fixture or work of art. Often it's the combination of several of these elements that makes the difference. When you want to make a quick statement without remaking the entire room, even one unique furniture item can do the trick. This cart-style coffee table by Restoration Hardware is a great example of the customized flavor a special item can instill in a space. When you decorate, always look for a way to incorporate an unexpected element to customize your style.

The Crown Jewel

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 22:47:07 GMT

A unique lighting fixture can sometimes be the crown jewel of a well designed space. I like this dining room by Vastu. The individual elements combine to form a delicious entre of eye candy. From the creamy gray walls to the golden draperies and sleek furniture there is an atmosphere of uncluttered beauty. Vivid artwork creates a focal point that brings together the various hues of color in the space and gives it life. And then...ah, yes...that chandelier. It crowns it all. Yum!

Contemporary Elegance

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 01:58:50 GMT

Bringing together the best of two worlds can spark magic in a room. Enter the sophisticated elegance of this contemporary space. Clean lines in the surrounding architecture and furnishings provide a contemporary stage for a classically inspired fireplace mantle. As a design technique, I love how firewood was stacked inside the empty firebox. The logs create a pattern of natural texture that warms and adds interest to this chic, all-white color scheme. The result is beautiful! Image Courtesy: Carree

Awakening the Interior Designer Within You

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 16:16:07 GMT

Imagine a resource that not only provides a wealth of how-to information for home decorating but has a built-in system of helping you uncover your own interior design style. Allow me to recommend an ebook collection I recently purchased for review called Awaken Your Interior Designer (AYID). For a beginner still unsure about his or her style sense, AYID provides a comprehensive series of engaging quizzes and scenarios that reveal your personal style preferences. The author then shows you how to apply decorating techniques to fit your style perfectly from color to fabrics and much more. This ebook is written in an easy-to-read, conversational style from the perspective of someone who has been there and done that. While not overflowing with photos of high-end showrooms, I found the photos and illustrations that are included to be relevant and real world. The author even includes the exact brand and color name of what is shown in many of the images, which is useful if you want to use it in your own home. The Awaken Your Interior Designer collection is a resource you will return to time and time again. Click here to learn more and get your copy.

Balancing Act

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:42:50 GMT

Creating visual balance within a room scheme is a tried and true interior design approach. Imagine an invisible line slicing your space in half. Visually balancing each side against the other helps to create a sense of overall unity. Balance can be achieved through a very literally (and more formal) approach or a bit more subtly through a balance of visual weight. That is...the decor elements may not exactly mirror each other but overall they feature an equal look and heft. I like this photo by Margaret Sheridan Interior Design because it exemplifies a beautifully balanced interior design scheme.

Feathering Your Nest

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 03:29:47 GMT

I discovered this whimsical interpretation of a canopy bed at Shawn Lovell Metalworks. I have never seen a bed quite like it before. But I love it! There is a wonderful, artistic approach to its construction and clear attention to detail right up to the bird's nest high in its branches. This sculptural beauty takes the concept of a bed to a whole new level through an exquisite combination of form and function.

Loft Interior Design

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 03:18:34 GMT

You love the openness of your new loft. Need a strategy to make it feel like home? Learn the secrets of loft interior design.

Cozy Nook

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 19:33:24 GMT

That odd shaped area of your home can turn out to be the most interesting when you use it to create a unique yet functional display. This beveled staircase landing provided a cozy spot with a great view. An upholstered bench with decorative pillows creates a place to sit and read or just enjoy the sunshine streaming through the beautiful windows. Potted plants and a fringed throw help to soften the display and create an inviting atmosphere. If you have an odd shaped area in your home, experiment with ways to make it a focal point. It just might become the favorite spot in the house. Image Courtesy: champagne.chic

Spunky Bedroom for a Teenager

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 23:45:08 GMT

I wanted a sophisticated yet bright room for my 12 year old. I definitely did not want a kiddish and cluttered look, and so this is what I came up

Start Your Interior Design Career

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 13:18:39 GMT

Ready for an interior design career? Find out how you can get started on the path to success.

Feng Shui Interior Design Secrets

Sat, 08 Aug 2009 02:33:09 GMT

Create a greater sense of harmony in your living space with these essential Feng Shui interior design techniques.

Striking A Pose

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 01:45:40 GMT

I love this leather chair. It looks so rich and timeless. Fine leather furniture can be quite versatile - perfect for various interior styles. A sleek, black leather chair like this one might reside beautifully in a contemporary, transitional or even a classical inspired interior. Its clean-lined silhouette establishes a chic, modern pose. Simultaneously, tufted seat and back panels provide a classic touch which softens it a bit and creates a more sophisticated composition. I think this chair exhibits a nice fusion of modern and classic elements. Maybe that's why I like it so much. Image courtesy:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/bbaunach/ / CC BY 2.0

Interior Design Photo Showcase!

Sun, 12 Jul 2009 18:04:00 GMT

Do you have the top interior design photo? Get noticed!

Top Kitchen Floor Design Options

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 01:14:07 GMT

Looking for the best kitchen floor design option for your home? Here are some ideas.

Decorative Wall Art Tips

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 00:32:49 GMT

Choose and arrange decorative wall art with a designer's touch. Avoid a decor disaster with these basic guidelines...

Gallery Bedroom

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 02:05:40 GMT

This bedroom caught my eye. I love the black and white photo arrangement over the bed. To me it evokes an art gallery. The asymmetrical arrangement of the frames lends a more casual, yet chic, feeling to the room than it might otherwise have. And that bed? It makes me want to grab one of the books on the floor and then sink into its comfortable depths. Image Courtesy: saraleeab, on Flickr

Create A Home Office Solution

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 16:15:26 GMT

Minimize visual clutter in your interior environment with a functional and harmonious home office solution.

Gustavian Inspired, Swedish Interior Design

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 02:03:26 GMT

Beautiful, light and airy! It is classic style with a Scandinavian twist. Learn how to create this Gustavian inspired Swedish interior design style in your home.

Interior Design Color Psychology

Sun, 17 May 2009 02:11:46 GMT

Want to create a space that feels airy and light, or perhaps intimate and cozy instead? An understanding of interior design color psychology will help you get it just right.

'Her' Master Bath

Fri, 15 May 2009 22:19:00 GMT

This bathroom was done for the Veranda Magazine/ Trump Tower Showhouse in 2007. The building is located on the corner of 57th and Park Avenue,

Living Room Redesign

Wed, 13 May 2009 23:41:11 GMT

When my husband and I bought this house several years ago it was stuck in the 70's and badly in need of an update. I chose a sand and creme color

Lounge Concept Sketch

Tue, 05 May 2009 23:29:56 GMT

This is a quick concept sketch which was done free hand in pen and water

Royal Romance

Mon, 04 May 2009 02:54:04 GMT

My husband and I were living overseas on Guam and our bedroom furniture that had been given to us when we got married was, unfortunately, badly

High Style: Attic Interior Design

Sat, 02 May 2009 19:07:23 GMT

Dust off your design portfolio. Your next project may be waiting overhead. Here's what you need to know about creating a bonus room or attic interior design plan.

Artistic Focal Point

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 23:29:35 GMT

Here is a great example of turning a long, blank wall into an artistic focal point. The owner of this home arranged framed photos in an asymmetrical format to create an attractive art display. The variation in frame shape from rectangular to round creates further interest while the whole arrangement feels anchored by the dark console table below. For more tips on this topic check out my wall decor page. Image Courtesy: saraleeab, on Flickr

Deluxe Suite at the Four Seasons Hotel in Florence

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 00:41:55 GMT

I'm relatively new to rendering and this is my latest one which I consider a progress compared to all my previous ones. My interior sketch tip:

Our Privacy Policy

Sun, 15 Mar 2009 22:57:56 GMT

We have updated our website privacy policy. For more information, click the link below...

Chapel of St. Ignatius, Seattle

Sun, 15 Mar 2009 18:29:08 GMT

I like to keep a sketchbook with me when I travel to record the places I visit. Sometimes I capture an interesting detail or in this case, the play

A Musically Coordinated Interior?

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 00:05:03 GMT

For some, good interior design is more than space planning and visually coordinated colors and textures. It also aural! This New York Times article enlightens.

Fresh and Exciting!

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:52:47 GMT

Now here is a way to make a white room pop! I love this photo. The designer of this room obviously took care to make what could have been a bland, white space into something special. An exhilarating color scheme is established through fabric elements. The yellow and fuchsia colors in the window draperies are echoed by accent pillows on the sofas as well as fabrics on the other chairs throughout the room. There is just the right amount of color to give life to the space without overwhelming it. The large black area rug grounds the whole scheme and keeps it from looking too light or over the top. Touches of black overhead relate back to the rug and round out a unified look. Notice how the adjacent room in the background exhibits some of the same pink featured in the living room? Repeating a color element in adjacent spaces is a great way to provide continuity and overall cohesiveness to an interior style. Image Courtesy: sarahleeab, on Flickr

Tuscan Interior Design Techniques

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 02:11:30 GMT

Create old world style in your space with beautiful Tuscan interior design elements. Heres how!

2009 Color Trends

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 01:11:33 GMT

Recently I was thinking about the direction of color trends in interior design, wondering where they might be headed as we move toward the end of another decade. Through some research I discovered this informative video on the subject released by color authority Pantone. Pantone has selected a shade of yellow called Mimosa as the 2009 color of the year. To see a sample of Mimosa click here. (Note: Link opens in a new window)

Design A New Kitchen

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 05:02:55 GMT

Save valuable time and hard earned money. Here's what you need to know before you design a new kitchen.

Ceramic Tiled Lobby

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 02:43:48 GMT

I'm a student of interior design at University Pelita Harapan (Indonesia) and this is my third year class drawing. It's not perfect, but I'm making

Work from Home Opportunity

Sat, 03 Jan 2009 17:57:55 GMT

Feeling the financial pressures of a weakening economy? Ready to take control of your life? Why not start an online business? Turn your passion into income from the comfort of home. Site Build It (SBI) is a fun and powerful way to build an online business that works. How do I know? It's how I created this website. I love SBI because it provides me with extra income just by sharing what I enjoy. Everybody knows something about something. You do too! Turn your knowledge into income with SBI's step-by-step approach. Click here for more on SBI! It works.

Rose

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 01:56:45 GMT

This is one of my beginner's sketches. I have been sketching for 5 years now. My tip for sketching is to do the shading and highlighting last. My

Create A Restful, Simple Bedroom

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 02:52:33 GMT

If elaborate elements are not what you had in mind for a bedroom makeover, consider a simple bedroom scheme that is restrained and restful. Here are some tips for creating it.

Great Holiday Decor Ideas for a Festive Interior

Sat, 06 Dec 2008 20:41:49 GMT

Make your home warm and inviting this season. Here are ten holiday decor ideas that are sure to add some comfort and joy.

Dining Room Interior Design Tips

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 22:35:17 GMT

Entertain your guests in style! Here's how to create a dining room interior design plan that works.