Are You Neglecting your Foyer?

I enter a lot of foyers in my line of work. Sometimes they're welcoming...sometimes, not so much. What I HAVE found is that in a large percentage of the time, not enough emphasis is spent on making this area a showplace. This needs to change!

Entries are the gateway to the rest of your home.

For key suggestions on energizing your foyer, be sure that you read My Newsletter. If you haven't subscribed, Click Here.

Here are a couple more suggestions that weren't listed.

I love this picture. Drama at it's best, yet very tastefully done. What grounds it is the addition of the floor plant. Plants, no matter where you place them, always evoke warmth, energy and a welcoming feel. Whether you use real plants or quality silks, they're a nice addition to any entry.

Here's something you may not have considered: The front door. If your front door has seen better days, DO something. It doesn't make sense to have a well decorated home INSIDE with an uninviting door for an entrance.

Paining is a an inexpensive and painless way to make a big difference.

Or, you might consider changing the door altogether. Consider one with glass to let the light in. This makes a huge impact..not only on the 'look" (both from the inside and the outside), but also on the "feel". A well lit entry will even seem larger if it's lit by natural light. A beautiful door will also increase the perceived value of your home.

I DO hope this has inspired you to re-visit you entry. Please call me if you need any help.
Till next time,
Alba

Jonathan't Place is almost completed!

Last Friday, we (members of the Interior Design Society) met at Jonathan's Place for a day of work and fun. The work part included installation of the finishing touches...painting, moving furniture, installing foam flooring, cleaning, etc. The plan is to complete the project within the next two weeks. Everyone's done an amazing job so far.



The fun part is seeing it come together...experiencing the generosity of so many talented people and being a part of this amazing group.

Traditional? ..not anymore!

I just completed a Guest Room for a client who first hired me 7 years ago. In those 7 years her style has gradually changed from traditional to a more definite Transitional.

This is a trend that I see more and more. The challenge is: How to incorporate your existing traditional furniture and make the "look" more contemporary?

In my client's case, we needed to work with an antique brass bed. It doesn't get more traditional than that! But look what happened when we added very contemporary metal sculptures over the bed. Voila!!

The "look" is now Transitional.

Of course other elements play a part in pulling this off...the colors used, shapes, textures...
But the point is, you can still update without breaking the bank. So go for it! Give your rooms a lift and your spirit will follow.

And if you need help, call me.

Happy Decorating!
Alba

Ideas for Your Outdoor Decor

Last Friday morning I drove to McKinney airport and took Petunia for a spin. Petunia is my favorite Cessna 152. It was a bit windy and the morning began a bit hazy but after a while it cleared and turned into a gorgeous day.

I LOVE this time of year. It's perfect for flying....but not just flying...living.

Outdoor Living!

That's why I've devoted this week's E-Newsletter to outdoor decorating. Here are a few additional tips that I didn't include in the newsletter.

And by the way, if you're not getting My Newsletter, what are you waiting for?
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Put Out a Bird Bath
Bird baths are sculptural art for the yard. They come in all shapes and styles. Find one you love and place it where you can see it. Our feather friends are sure to appreciate it as the weather gets hotter.

Add a Fountain

If you love the "water" idea, but not the wildlife, try adding a fountain. Whether a standing or a wall fountain, there's nothing like the sound of water. Many fountains are inexpensive, easy to install and create enormous atmosphere. You may consider looking into solar fountains too.

Outdoor Drapes

What better way to bring the indoor atmosphere outside? Outdoor drapes are not only beautiful but also functional. Depending on where you hang them, they can provide privacy plus heat, sun and mosquito protection. But DO make sure they're made for the outdoors. Interior panels won't hold up to the elements.

Hope these have inspired you to get outside and enjoy the outdoors!

Till next time,

Alba