Showing posts with label expert tips. Show all posts
Showing posts with label expert tips. Show all posts

Monday, January 14, 2013

How to Balance Black & White

Balance Black and White Bedroom


Q: I love decorating in black and white, but I’m finding it difficult to create balance in my bedroom. The result is always either too dark or insufficiently dramatic. Any expert tips?

A: Professional home stager and design consultant Sarah Macklem suggests “mixing patterns and textures, and combining them with soft, muted neutrals. I love to use black and white accessories to become a feature, as opposed to overpowering the room. Another way to soften the look of black and white is to combine it with natural textures like dried hydrangea, for example. Black and white décor is timeless. One way to keep a space from appearing too dark is to use a lighter complementary color, as well as white and cream, to provide contrast.”

By Rebecca J. Razo

Friday, December 14, 2012

How to Find the Perfect Faucet for You

Bathroom faucets aren’t’ just about functionality; they also show off your personal style and pull together all of the decorating elements that make up your bathroom.

Shopping for the perfect faucet is tough because there are myriad sizes, designs and finishes available to choose from.

3 Steps to Finding a Faucet You’ll Love

  1. Pink your sink. The type of sink you’ll choose absolutely determines what style of faucet application you need.
  2. Pick a style and finish that complements your décor. For example, if you’re going for a cottage look in your bathroom, you might choose an oil-rubbed finish with some curves. If your design is more contemporary, consider sleeker lines and a nickel finish.
  3. Do you want the extras? Some of the newer trends in faucets include a detachable sprayer, interchangeable handles, built-in programmable temperature controls and duo finish treatments.
Buyer Beware: Love the look of those shallow sinks that are mounted on the countertop? Then choose your faucet style and placement carefully. If the water doesn’t flow out fairly close to the vessel, you’ll have lots of splashes to clean up. A vessel sink with higher sides can help contain splashing.

By Kelly Lloyd
Photo courtesy of Thinkstock.com.