Monday, October 1, 2007

First Home



When you purchase your first home...or move into a new apartment...you will probably feel overwhelmed. Here's some good advice on where to start.
Firstly, pat yourself on the back. Congrats on finding a place you love and making the jump!
Second, decide on an over-all feel.
If you want your house to feel welcoming and personal, pick soft fabrics, put up personal photos and create a soft look with good lighting. Be aware, don't over load your house with personal photos. Putting up tons of photos may feel cluttered. A welcomng space has an open feel!
If you want your house to feel modern, then choose modern pieces of furniture, use color on the walls (or even the floor) and choose lighting that creates focal points of interest.
If you want your house to feel classic, choose pieces of furniture that you would see centuries ago (but be sure to mix with practical pieces), use soft colors and wallpaper and use lamps for your lighting.
There are many ways to 'start' the decorating process, but I think deciding on an over-all theme is a good place to start.
Thirdly, during your decorating process make sure you stop and assess your progress. Often times I start wondering away from my theme because I just like certain pieces. That's great! Just be sure it's where you want to be going.
And lastly, have fun. For me, decorating is one of my favorite hobbies. I love the thrill of the hunt. It's about finding great style, and making your own.
I find great inspiration on HGTV and Better Homes and Gardens.