decorating tips: Create the Perfect Kid’s Room

(ARA) - Redecorating your child’s room is more than a way to bring their space up to date. It can also be a great way for you to spend some time with your child, to see how their personal tastes have developed and to teach them some valuable lessons about negotiation as well.
You may be surprised to know that the first step in the room redecorating process doesn’t begin with picking out a princess theme or figuring out the right shade of rocket blue. Knowing when your child is ready for the change can be more important than the decorating process itself.

According to Dr. Steve O’Brien, assistant professor of child psychology for Argosy University/Tampa, knowing where your child is at in their development is the key. “When your child’s interests begin to expand to the world around them and become more personal, your child may be ready and excited for a new room.” Changes in television viewing from animated cartoons to “real” shows like those on Animal Planet and Nickelodeon, interest in different types of music and a move towards more mature toys are indicators as well.

Remember that your child’s room is not your own. While your furniture, collections and possessions spread over the entire home, theirs are usually confined to one room. Their bedrooms are multifunctional spaces that need to meet a variety of needs. “The space needs to be a place where your child can sleep, store their things, socialize with friends, play and even study,” says LeAnn Baier, interior design instructor for The Art Institute of Las Vegas. According to O’Brien, “It should be both comfortable and comforting to them and designed in a way that is conducive to their development.”

Weed through the contents of your child’s room and help them prioritize what they need in the space and what they don’t.” Identify what items should be in open storage where your child can access them easily, which ones can be placed in closets, which need to be convenient to access and which can be stored elsewhere or simply thrown away.

The best way to maximize space in any bedroom, according to Baier, is with a closet system. According to Steven Mann, managing partner of Crowne Closets & Cabinetry in Las Vegas, “If you have a single shelf and pole in your closet, installing a closet system can increase hanging space by two thirds and give the customer needed shelving as well.” If you can’t afford a custom system, there are other options as well. Your local do-it-yourself warehouse can also help when it comes to closet systems and storage solutions, as can a little ingenuity.

Go to the organization aisle of your favorite store, look at the various storage items there and find ways to use them in your child’s room. Baier uses canvas shoe holders that hang from a traditional closet pole to store games, puzzles and art materials for her daughter. Remember that children’s clothes are shorter so you can often fit a bookcase or toy organizer under them in the closet. Consider under-the-bed storage as well. Wall shelves and other off-the-floor storage can be a great way to allow children to display their collections in an organized fashion. Bookcases are another storage solution for kid items but can take up vital floor space in the room.

The primary pieces in your child’s bedroom should be the furniture. “The best case scenario,” says Baier, “is that parents have planned ahead of time for the transition and avoided furniture and items that are age-specific.” Whether you have them already or will need to purchase them now, opt for classic pieces that will grow with your child.

Walls should be handled in a similar manner. Baier encourages her clients to opt for strong architectural lines and neutral colors in a room. Bead board, moldings and other architectural elements can give a room the character you are looking for without overwhelming the space. When it comes to color, a light periwinkle is a great way to inject color into the room and appease your daughter’s demand for an all-purple space. “Kids generally don’t have a concept of color shades until they are 8 or 9,” says O’Brien. “Look at different shades of purple with them and come to an agreement on what shade of purple they can use for the walls, assuring them they can inject more vibrant shades in other places.”

So where is the fun, the color and the Spongebob that your child wanted in their space? It’s in the accents. Bed linens, artwork, table lamps and even window coverings are less expensive ways to bring your child’s personality into the space and help their “cool” factor. Keep window shades and light control elements neutral but experiment with a fun valance. Bring your child’s favorite character or animal into the room in the bedding or as art accents on the walls. Most importantly, know that every good design has classic elements that will stand the test of time. Creating a good base for your growing child’s room allows you to make changes at every stage of their life and with reasonable or nominal cost. Courtesy of ARA Content


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DYI decorating tips: seven secrets to shopping for lighting

(ARA) - The secret is out -- lighting is the single most important element in decorating, dramatically improving the look and feel of any room. But with so many options out there, finding that right light may be a little easier said than done. Chances are, you’ve probably wondered, do I have the right sized fixture? How do I install it? How low do I hang it? Will it be too bright or just right?

No question about it, shopping for lighting can be an overwhelming and frustrating experience, and if you start the process before doing your homework, you’ll quickly find yourself in the dark. The good news is, whether you’re giving an old space a makeover or putting the finishing touches on a new one, there are a few simple tricks that can take interior gloom to glow without giving you a major headache.

Before even stepping foot in a showroom, you should first know your budget and come prepared with information about your home. Look for pictures in magazines that reflect your taste. Bring in fabric swatches or color chips for areas you’re redecorating, and take a few quick measurements before leaving your home.

To get you started, follow these helpful interior designers’ tips:

1. How can I achieve the proper illumination in a room?

There’s actually a proven formula for calculating the proper amount of light you’ll need, and it’s not difficult -- just some basic arithmetic.

Formula: Room Length x Room Width x 1.5 = Proper Amount of Watts to Light a Room

For example, let’s say, you have a 12x16-foot living room: 12x16x1.5 = 288 watts of lighting. Therefore, a five-light chandelier using 60-watt bulbs will provide sufficient light for the room. For more concentrated lighting over a task or work area such as a kitchen island, simply multiply the dimensions of the island by 2.5.

2. What size chandelier would best suit a foyer?

Always keep in mind that the bottom of the chandelier should be at least 7-feet from the floor. If there is a window above the front door, center the chandelier so it can be seen from outside. If the foyer is extra large, you may also want to include wall sconces for additional light.

To determine the chandelier’s width, simply add the dimensions together. For example, let’s say you have a 12x16-foot foyer: 12+16=28. Therefore, the foyer chandelier’s diameter should be approximately 28-inches in width.

3. What’s the best way to light a hallway?

There should be a light every 8 to10-feet. Either flush-mounts or semi-flush fixtures can be used depending on ceiling height.

4. What size chandelier should hang over my dining room table?

It’s best to choose one with a diameter equal to one half the width of the table. Here, as in the foyer, room dimensions dictate the width of the chandelier. Also, keep in mind that the bottom of the chandelier should be at least 2 1/2 feet above the table.

5. How do I light a dinette area?

Normally, a decorative pendant or a fixture with a down light will do the job. Use a dimmer to soften the light when entertaining and brighten the area for homework or hobby-related tasks. Again, the bottom of the pendant should be at least 2 1/2 feet above the table. Normally 100 watts of light is sufficient for these areas.
6. What’s the best way to light a bathroom?

Most bathrooms only have a light fixture above the mirror because that is where the single outlet box is usually placed. The problem: top-mounted lighting casts shadows down on the face, harshly accentuating flaws and making lines look deeper. If you want to see your true self, then you also need lighting on each side of your face.

7. When do I need portable lighting?

Besides adding a focal point, portable lights can provide extra light for tasks such as reading, homework and crafts and should be used when additional task light is needed. If you’re using a floor or desk lamp, the bottom of the lampshade should be approximately 42-inches from the floor’s surface. Desk lamps should be 16-inches above the work surface, and torchieres, used to light dark corners, should be 66 to 72-inches from the floor.

Feel a little more prepared? So go ahead, take out that home improvement list and get ready to cross a few things off. Courtesy of ARA Content


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home decorating idea: sconces set latest trend in style

ARA) - The latest look in decorative lighting has hit the wall. Sconces, light fixtures attached to the wall halfway between the floor and ceiling, get thumbs-up approval for adding sophistication to a space.

“The most significant current trend in sconces is the extraordinary variety of styles that have appeared in the marketplace,” says Joe Rey-Barreau, AIA, IES, CSI, architect, educational consultant for the American Lighting Association and professor of interior design at the University of Kentucky. “It seems as if every conceivable material, finish and style is available. This is a trend in the lighting industry in general, but sconces have significantly proliferated as a category in the last three to four years.”

While traditional brass sconces continue to rate raves, there has been an increase in painted metal, and nickel or pewter finishes. Hand-forged steel offers rustic appeal. Post-modern styles emphasize simple sconces with modernist lines and shapes but with some variety in the details and the ornament.

Sconces range in size and shape to fit any wall. While the average indoor sconce is about 12 inches tall, some are as long as 30 inches and quite slender.

“People are increasingly looking for sconces with a clean, architectural look,” says Brandon Levin, a vice president at a renowned design group in Los Angeles. “Brushed nickel and dark bronze are popular finishes which work in a wide variety of applications.”

Most exciting is the availability of shades made of glass, fabric and other materials. Rey-Barreau says, “Traditional sconces with exposed lamps designed to simulate the appearance of a candle tend to be glaring, since the filament of the light bulb is exposed. “Shades help soften the look.”

Sconces add tremendous comfort to a space because they bring attention to the perimeter of a room. Added to soaring spaces, they offer a method of creating a more human scale. When controlled by a dimmer, they are extremely valuable in places such as family rooms, media rooms and living rooms as a means of controlling the mood of the space.

From their perch on the wall, sconces create a play of light and shadow that changes as the evening darkens. Add a dimmer to control the light quality of a sconce, and a room can be modified to create unique and varying moods.

Technically, a sconce is a term used to define wall-mounted fixtures that are installed on the inside of a home. The use of wall-mounted fixtures on the exterior of a home is a common detail, but these fixtures are more commonly called outdoor fixtures or wall lanterns. They serve the same purpose as interior sconces, but are designed to withstand exposure to varied weather conditions. Courtesy of ARA Content

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decorating tips: color your home with the feeling of fall

(ARA) - As the air becomes crisp and we spend more time indoors, it’s time to make your home look as warm and inviting as possible. The hottest new home decorating trends are reflecting the colorful changing landscape.

According to Peggy Van Allen, color specialist for Pratt & Lambert Paints, the new trends are easy to incorporate into existing design schemes.

“The fall season and its vibrant color palette contain some extraordinarily rich, yet versatile hues. The depth of color provides extensive options for adding room accents, changing themes and styles, and even completely redecorating,” says Van Allen.

The following are some tips from Van Allen to help you get started:

Embrace color

Painting is one of the easiest and most impactful ways to give a room a facelift. Currently, autumn-inspired hues are the must-haves on the market. According to Van Allen, red is an ideal choice when it comes to fall colors. Whether it’s cherry, persimmon, or cranberry, there is an abundance of red accessories -- such as rugs and pillows -- to coordinate, making red a bold, yet safe selection. “Along with darker shades of burgundy and cinnamon, reds make a room feel both comforting and energizing, adding a feeling of warmth as the weather gets colder,” she adds.

Traditional neutral colors never go out of style, but there are a number of new additions to the category this season. Sand, wheat, mustard, stone, and clay, are just a few of the new colors that blend harmoniously with most existing decor schemes. They also make a room appear larger and more open.

Using a few different but coordinating colors can be a great way to add dimension to your room and highlight decorative trims, furnishings, doorways, and shelves. In a large room, different colors can divide space into visually separate areas. This is helpful in a room that serves multiple functions.


Accessorize

Painting isn’t the only way to give a stylish nod to autumn. Look for blankets, pillows, and rugs in darker colors and textured fabrics to complement your furniture. Choose fabric patterns with metallic or beaded detail, embroidery, or Mid-eastern influences. Besides providing an instant updated look, these easy additions will make your home seem warmer and more comfortable. Fill shelves, tables and bare corners with various-sized candles in delicious seasonal scents like cinnamon, vanilla, apple, and pumpkin pie. Or, use copper accents wherever possible for a rustic fall look.


Get Creative

Festive fall decorating doesn’t mean you have to be the neighbor with the Styrofoam ghost on your front lawn. Seasonal staples like pumpkins, gourds, and autumn leaves look great in and around the home, but try using them in new and appealing ways. For a modern centerpiece, simply line up mini pumpkins, gourds, or fruit on a long white platter, low basket, or tray. Then add berry clusters, leaves, or flowers for a colorful garnish.

Fill miniature glass vases with seeds, dried berries, or potpourri for stylish countertop or windowsill accents. Create elegantly simple fall wreaths by repeating one item like acorns, berries, or miniature pumpkins in a circle and add a satin bow.

Everyone loves the idea of jack-o-lanterns, but not everyone loves carving them. If pumpkin carving isn’t your thing, try this chic alternative: drill lines of different-sized holes down the sides of your pumpkin. After adding a candle, these “designer” pumpkin accents will provide elegant light for a room.

Any of these fall decorating tips are sure to add a feeling of stylish festivity to your home’s interior. “The most important decorating tip is to make your home as comfortable and pleasant as possible for you and those you love,” says Van Allen. “Get creative and find out what works best for you.” Courtesy of ARA Content


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decorating tips: Do-It-Yourselfer's Guide to Building a Home Theater

(ARA) – If you love watching movies, but not the movie theater experience you’re not alone. According to an AP-AOL poll released in June of 2005, 73 percent of Americans would rather watch movies at home. Among the many reasons cited in the poll, crowded theaters, uncomfortable seats, expensive tickets and pricey concessions.
With so many complaints about theaters, it should come as no surprise that one of the hottest home improvement projects there is these days is to transform a family room, extra bedroom, basement or even a garage into a home theater. If the idea sounds enticing to you, but you don’t want to spend a small fortune, you may want to do the project yourself.

* Seating

A good place to start is by deciding how realistic you want the experience to be. Try thumbing through a home theater magazine for ideas. If you’re going to set the room up in a wide open space, like a basement, for example, you’ll have room to go so far as to install authentic movie theater seats, complete with the tilting backs and drink holders. If your space is limited, a sofa would make a better seating option.

* The screen

As far as the screen goes, they come in various fabrics, sizes and prices. At the high end are cloth screens that roll up and down at the click of a button -- at the low end, square-shaped screens like those your teacher may have rolled out of the closet when you were in school. The type of screen that’s best depends on the projector, the viewing angle, the amount of ambient light in the room and the distance from the projector to the screen.

* The projector

The big ticket item for this venture will be its key component -- the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) or Digital Light Processing (DLP) video projector, which range in price from $2,000 to $10,000. Since this type of equipment projects images, it’s necessary to have an adequate amount of distance between the projector and screen.

The projector can be located on a table, shelf or special stand, but the most popular way to set it up is to attach it to the ceiling via a ceiling mount. You can pick up a custom one from your projector’s manufacturer, or save money by going with the new Sanus Systems Universal Projector Ceiling Mount. It was designed to simplify installation for virtually every projector available for ceiling mount application. “This mount’s sleek look, sturdy construction, projector compatibility and professional adjustment mechanism make it the best low profile universal mount on the market,” says Keith Pribyl of Sanus Systems.

* Surround sound

When most people think about "watching" a movie they think of the visual image. But what really differentiates a home theater from a big screen television is the audio. According to Dolby Laboratories, innovators and leaders in sound technology, a good home theater set up has at least five main speakers: a center speaker, usually on top of or just below the screen or TV; two speakers in the front of the room on either side of the screen or TV near the corners of the room, generally about ear level for seated listeners and placed at the same height as the center speaker; and two speakers placed slightly behind and above ear level but facing horizontally and not down toward the listener. This gives the valued “surround sound” effect.

The speakers can be placed on bookshelves, on speaker stands or mounted right to the walls or ceiling. Sanus makes both speaker stands and mounts that can be attached to walls and ceilings. The stands and mounts both come in three color options (silver, black and white).

For more information about Sanus Systems Universal Projector Ceiling Mount or the speaker mounts, log on to www.sanus.com.

Courtesy of ARA Content

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decorating tips: innovation makes kitchens convenient, functional and stylish

(ARA) – The kitchen has become the center of the action in today’s home. It’s used for everything from entertaining to doing homework. Oh, and cooking, too. The amenities found in the kitchen reflect this multi-tasking. You’re likely to find a computer and a television in the room in addition to more traditional appliances.
But the fundamental role of the kitchen hasn’t changed – and neither has the desire of home cooks for features that make the kitchen functional and practical as well as attractive. “Double ovens, commercial-grade appliances and solid surface countertops were once found only in upscale homes, but they are becoming the standard for all kitchens as they go from being behind the scenes to the forefront of the action,” notes Jamie Hurd, academic department director of interior design at The Art Institute of Portland.

All of these upgrades add style to a room that many consider the focal point of their homes. “In newer homes, the kitchen often opens up into the family room, becoming part of the living area,” says Hurd. For this reason, in addition to state-of-the-art appliances, homeowners are adding other stylish elements as well, such as colorful tiled backsplashes and beautiful wood cabinets.

“People realize the value of a good kitchen, and the value it adds to their homes,” says Hurd. And details like plumbing and lighting are just as important as the right appliances. Two new sinks and accessories from Kohler reflect the trend of kitchens that work hard and look great. Cast iron sinks with Smart Divide functionality provide the best of both worlds – the convenience of a double-basin sink and the roominess of a single-basin sink. Kohler accomplishes this thanks to a basin divider that is half the height of conventional dividers and thereby offers greater clearance between the faucet and the mid-section of the sink.

Thanks to this innovative design, the Smart Divide sink is better suited to accommodate larger pots and pans with extended handles. It also helps save water, since extra long pots and pans can be more fully submerged, meaning less water is required to soak the cookware. The Smart Divide sinks are available in two models, Iron/Tones and Langlade.

Homeowners who want streamlined functionality will love the accessories they can use with the sinks, including Kohler’s popular Forté pullout kitchen faucet. Graceful and functional, the spout height and reach are generous enough to provide added clearance when handling large containers. The pullout spray head is easy to maneuver and the spray pattern can be changed with one hand. It is easy to maintain, featuring a MasterClean Sprayface that withstands calcium buildup and can be cleaned simply by rubbing the sprayface with a fingertip. The faucet is available in a number of finishes to fit any décor.

If you’re searching for an uncluttered look for your kitchen, you can add a hot water dispenser for making instant coffee or tea and put soap or lotion dispenser under your sink for a sleek look. A new universal cutting board means you can wash and chop your produce right at the sink no matter what size your kitchen sink happens to be. Courtesy of ARA Content

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decorating tips: bedroom linen care tips

(ARA) - As summer winds down and temperatures begin to drop, it is the perfect time to remake the bed with warm comforters and cozy quilts. Bedding can be an expensive investment. The following guidelines from the Coin Laundry Association will help extend their life:
* Be kind to your bedding. Wash and dry in large-capacity machines. Most household washers can hold between 10- and 12-pounds of laundry. This is not large enough for a queen-size comforter. Commercial-grade washers, such as those found at your coin laundry, can handle up to 75 pounds of wash and are best for cleaning bedding. Using larger machines will not only extend the life of your comforter, but also your home washer and dryer.

* Wash colored bedding in a mild detergent. Whites should be followed up with an oxygenated-bleach. Avoid chlorine bleaches, which leave a residue that is hard to clean and can cause discoloration over time.

* When drying your bedding, use a fabric-softening sheet as opposed to a liquid-softener. Fabrics, such as down, have a tendency to absorb the liquid unevenly.

* Contrary to popular opinion, you can wash down-filled bedding. Be sure to read the care instructions, but most down comforters and pillows can be laundered. Use a mild detergent to wash and when drying put some clean tennis balls into the dryer to help fluff and distribute the down.

* Wash and dry flannel sheets separately. Flannel has a tendency to deposit lint in the dryer. Perhaps the most important care instruction for flannel is not to over-dry. Over-drying can cause wrinkles to set and colors to fade.

* Wool blankets can be washed and dried! Use cold water on a gentle cycle and fluff dry. Add some towels to help absorb moisture and cut down on drying time.

* Save time and use a coin laundry’s convenient wash-dry-fold service, all you have to do is drop the bedding off and pick it up the next day. Some stores will even pick-up and drop-off for an additional charge.

* Always read the care-labels! Laundering comforters and bedspreads at the coin laundry saves a considerable amount of money over dry cleaning, but certain fabrics, such as satin, cannot be washed and should be taken to a professional dry cleaner. Courtesy of ARA Content

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