I know it’s been said many times before, but it really is “all in the details”.
I know it’s been said many times before, but it really is “all in the details”. When I’m working on a project, I spend many sleepless nights thinking about the very detailed finishes that will make a project come together beautifully.
However, working on my own project has kicked the level of sleepless nights up a notch. In case you missed my March post, I wrote about choosing a floor, one of the larger components of a project. After lots of research, I zeroed in on the best choice for our family of 4 French Bulldogs, my husband and me – engineered wood.
If you have little or no experience choosing finishes, I can’t imagine what you must be going through. There are so many choices. Mistakes are expensive and living with the mistake you look at every day does not make for a happy home design project experience.
I always like simple classic design that doesn’t get tired down the road. And a design that gives me the option for change when I feel like I need a refresh.
With all this in mind, let me list a few finishes that will make or break a project.
Fireplaces:
Keep the surround simple. A fireplace can become bossy and dictate what you can do in the rest of the room. A clean looking surround gives you options and keeps the feel of the room flexible.
Windows and window treatments:
Shades, panels, motorized, fabric, blackout, etc. Be mindful. With all finishes, the style should reflect the use of the room.
Wall color:
So many options. White is very “in” right now.
There are a gazillion of them.
Cabinets:
They’re not just for kitchens. Bar areas, bathrooms and even closets require cabinet choices. There are wood options as well as any color you can imagine.
Then, cabinet door style, molding, knobs or pulls, trims etc.
For kitchens:
Faucets, backsplashes, countertops, lighting, appliances, flooring etc.
Furniture:
Fabric, style, comfort, use. Consider the room function. What style are you going for?
Bathrooms:
Faucets, tubs, shower, tile, flooring, shower doors, mirrors, lighting etc. These all require decisions about finishes.
Are you overwhelmed yet?
I think you get the idea. So many choices. I make my ultimate decision about finishes by going back to the way I want the room to feel and the use of the room. Do my choices fit with the architecture of the house and the personalities of the people using the rooms?
Don’t forget the Art! Yes, You do need it. It’s that beautiful last layer that makes a room yours. It’s the finish line of your project
The trick is to make something new look like it has always been a part of the house. A new room or room refresh should not make the rest of the house look out of place or shabby.
The reason to hire a designer is because we do know what options are available, how to choose and cohesively come up with a design that makes for a beautiful home interior that’s in keeping with the architecture of your home. This can ultimately save you time and money. And maybe even marriage counseling.
You deserve a home that makes you happy!