Bathroom Designs

I'm not sure if I'm into contemporary or modern design when it comes to bathrooms. A recent home project pushed me to decorate my bathroom. I think this is the last room in the house that one thinks of when they think of "cozy" rooms. I've discovered that a bathroom should be warm and inviting...it should hug you as you walk into it and make you want to stay a while. So, after my project I decided to look at some other designs to see how well I did. And, I think I passed the test! So let's take a look at a few designs to give you some ideas on warming up your bathroom space.

Adding accessories to bring in pops of color can make any space feel warm and inviting. Bathrooms can even exude romance! I prefer darker colors as seen in the bathrooms below...

Now how does that feel? You don't have to remodel your entire bathroom to make it feel cozy. You can add new curtains, photos, flowers, rugs, books, or even change the paint color. There are so many things that you can do and it's a fun project! So, as always...let's get started!

Outdoor Gardens

Now is the perfect time to start your outdoor garden. Whether you have a backyard space, patio, or terrace, you can create an outdoor garden that looks wonderful and brings relaxation to your life. Let's get some ideas...

A rooftop terrace can be a nice place to relax after a long day, so why not make it a place where you can go and smell the roses! You can create planters by using pots or boxes. Choose different colored flowers that catch the eye. You can also plant slow growing trees or shrubs.

Whatever you like, you can use to create an outdoor space that will help you unwind!

A backyard sanctuary can be created by using an outdoor fountain surrounded by beautiful plants. Select plants of different heights and choose garden ornaments for a whimsical look!

Create a pathway filled with your favorite flowers. There are so many to choose from...annuals or perennials. The root in both words, "annual" and "perennial" (i.e., per-annual) is the Latin word for "year". Annual plants are those that last only a year in their native climate. Perennial plants have something extra: that "per" in their name. The per prefix in Latin intensifies or adds to what comes after it. So perennials live additional years, when compared to annual plants.

Assorted bulbs; will return every year.

Hostas (perennials)

Impatiens

Outdoor planters add an elegant touch!

And don't forget your outdoor lighting to brighten things up! The ambiance will be most enjoyable.

Design Ideas for Small Spaces!

I was recently challenged with finding design ideas for small spaces. Downsizing can be overwhelming! I recently downsized, and while space did pose a challenge sometimes it just means you have to get rid of things. The hardest thing for me was giving up some of my plants, but this gave me the opportunity to maximize what I had and eliminate what I didn't need. Clearing out is always fun!!










One of my favorite designers is Candice Olson. She has a way of changing the ordinary to sophisticated! Because a space is small does not mean it can't be elegant.





















Let's not leave out my favorite HGTV designers!


Neutral Sophistication
This studio apartment may be small in size but makes up for this deficiency with sophisticated-city style. Neutral walls and curtains make the space appear much larger, while black and silver accents add to the crispness of the style. The living room's furniture arrangement keeps the space separate from the bedroom and study area, giving the small apartment more functional areas. Tip: Ghost furniture is a perfect addition to ultra-small spaces. This coffee table is hardly visible but still serves its purpose. The piece relieves the space of bulky furniture, preventing a crowded look.





Room for Entertaining
This stylish Philadelphia studio utilizes every inch of space without making the room seem busy. The neutral walls and bedding keep the space controlled and balanced. The designer tried to separate the space with organic textures, eclectic accessories, shiny metallic objects, soft draperies and unique lighting schemes. To quickly hide the bedroom from the kitchen and dining area, he added tall draperies as an easy room divider. Tip: Downsize the furniture to expand the space — buy a loveseat instead of a large sectional. If you like to entertain, invest in small barstools: They take up little space and provide plenty of seating for guests.


Industrial Style
High, exposed ceilings automatically make this 700-square-foot apartment seem much larger. This designer separated the bedroom from the living room and dining area with a cubicle bookshelf. The look not only provides additional storage but gives the bedroom some privacy from the rest of the space. Tip: Spice up a small studio with a vibrant focal wall in red or orange.

Creating a small living space can be fun and exciting...you just need to look at some ideas, pick those you like best, and start decorating! It's that simple....

Designing with Color

Many people are skeptical when it comes to designing with color. They don't know if they will like it, if it will be too much, or simply don't know what color to choose. Many play it safe and go with neutrals. I am one of those people who stick to neutrals but love color in a design. So, for those of us that are afraid to use color in our own designs let's explore some interesting color schemes.

As you know, I am a fan of HGTV! My television stays on this channel. So I would like to share some of the designs that I have come across that are very interesting; always giving props to the designer!



Blue and orange are a classic combination. In this bedroom, an orangey coral headboard stands out against steely blue walls. Great look! Design by Meredith Heron





Add Accent Furniture: A small dose of Tangerine Tango can add spice to virtually any palette. The designer used a geometric accent wall in chocolate coupled with a red-orange nail head-trimmed cocktail table to bring in a splash of color...nice! Design by Elaine Williamson


The grid pattern of the orange tiled walls, coupled with a mixture of modern fixtures and antiques, creates an anchored composition of complimentary "old and new" pieces. Framed mirrors add depth of personality reflective of your style.
Design by Don Raney



Don Raney also designed this kitchen; it's one of my favorites! The blonde wood finish of this kitchen's cabinetry is complemented with the use of black granite surfaces. The dual height island breaks up the openness of the kitchen and takes away from the visual impact of the large refrigerator while providing additional, less traditional island storage. Great look!




















Now any one of these rooms would offer a look that is not too much, with just the right elements. You should always use different patterns and textures to bring out the best in your room. So, are we ready to decorate yet? I am always up for a challenge. This is what I love to do...so lets go!!