As we head into a new year of great design, we thought we’d recap the last 12 months of Savvy Design Tips. Hopefully some of these have resonated with you and offered you some good advice. Here’s to more savvy design in 2018.
1. BEAUTY + BRAINS DOES EXIST!
Sophisticated spaces can be functional and functional spaces can be sophisticated. You don’t have to give up style for a space that works efficiently and easily for your family.
Design by Diane Fogerty
Photo by Michael Jacob
2. NEUTRAL ROOMS DON’T HAVE TO BE BORING.
When using all neutral colors in a room, add texture in wall coverings, fabrics, rugs and finishes to keep things interesting.
Design by Kathleen Matthews
Photo by Michael Jacob
3. USE ITEMS IN UNEXPECTED WAYS TO MAKE A TABLETOP INTERESTING.
When planning a tablescape, use items in unexpected ways, such as a marble cheeseboard as a plate or charger, flower garlands or a sculpture as a centerpiece. Having an adventurous eye will make your tabletop fun.
Design by Kathleen Matthews
Photo by Michael Jacob
4. USE FABRIC ON THE FLIP SIDE.
If a fabric you love is too bold for your taste, turn it over and use the flip side. You just might find that the more muted look is more pleasing and a better fit for your room. Designers sometimes use the “wrong” side of a fabric to add an aged patina to an upholstered piece of furniture or drapery treatment. And sometimes the “wrong” side is just as pretty as the right side. Whatever the case, if you like it better, the “wrong” side is always “right.”
Clarence House
5. IT’S ALL IN THE MIX.
Some of the most beautiful rooms are a mashup of design styles; a thoughtful blending of colors, textures and patterns; a modern mix of global influences and points of view.
Design by Savvy Design Team
Photo by Anne Matheis
6. WHITE WALLS ARE A PALETTE CLEANSER.
Dial down the drama of a space filled with bold color choices in upholstery and accessories by dressing the walls in a soft white. White walls can be a palette cleanser, giving they eyes a much needed resting place.
DCW Design
7. ANIMAL PRINT IS A NEUTRAL.
Really! It blends with almost everything and adds an edgy punch to a room. Use it in small does on a pillow or accent chair, or make it your focus. Animal prints of all kinds are timeless.
St. Jude’s 2016 Showhouse
Design by Kathleen Matthews
Photo by Michael Jacob
8. BE HONEST ABOUT YOUR LIFESTYLE.
When designing and decorating your home, be honest about your lifestyle. Nothing is more draining than living in a space that is more work than it is beautiful. Kids and pets don’t need to dictate your style choices, but you need to be mindful of them when making your design decisions. Lovely spaces should make everyone who lives in them comfortable and happy.
Design by Diane Fogerty
Photo by Michael Jacob
9. IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS.
Do not underestimate the power of stunning hardware to put the finishing touch on a space. Classic cabinetry with showstopping pulls, for example, can take a design to the next level. Hardware is like jewelry. It complete a look, just like pearls on a little black dress.
Design by Savvy Design Team
Photo by Michael Jacob
10. BRIGHT IDEAS
Lighting is extremely important, it shouldn’t be an after thought. Layer lighting everywhere, from recessed lighting, chandeliers and pendants, to under cabinet lighting, table and floor lamps and art spotlights. And remember 3 is the magic number for any grouping.
Kichler
11. DON’T FORGET THE FIFTH “WALL.”
Ceilings are often overlooked when designing a space. Think of the ceiling as the fifth “wall” in a room. Look up to make a statement in your space with paint, wallpaper, or a special architectural treatment.
Design by Diane Fogerty
Photo by Michael Jacob
12. ADD A LITTLE SPARKLE!
Even if you’re not into full on glam, adding a little sparkle to a space can be just the thing you need to put the exclamation point on your room.
Design by Diane Fogerty
Photo by Michael Jacob
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