Design Sleuth-more $1,000 budget ideas
When a client approaches designer Nathan with a budget of $1000 or less and desires to update his or her kitchen, Nathan usually starts with paint. “I’d probably go with a shade of green,” he says. “It’s a popular color and always looks fresh and matches everything so you wouldn’t have to change your basic furnishings.” For a clean contemporary look he suggested using a green with some yellow, almost a lime green. While moss green would be a better color for a kitchen with more traditional decor. For the ceiling, he’d use antique white, or white with a little color added, and then would paint the trim a shade or so darker. Check out the 2009 yellow-greens here: http://www.sherwin-williams.com/pro/paint_colors/paint_color_trends/2009/yellow-green-family/index.jsp.
Next, Nathan would look at accessories. Those of you that have display space above your kitchen cabinets might want to consider purchasing some new display items. Nathan likes blown glass ornaments in various shapes and sizes and silk florals such as orchids to add pizzazz to a modern interior. For a more traditional look, he’d go with Italian vases, silk magnolias, and lots of ceramics and pottery. Sometimes, he said, just buying a new light fixture or replacing the shade of an existing fixture can make a big difference.
Another simple but more expensive change, would be to replace your under-counter bar stools. Should you decide to go that route, DOTI at John’s Creek has a nice selection. If that is more money than you want to spend, consider re-covering your current stools with a durable, stain-resistant fabric as an easy do-it-yourself project. Adding rugs and floor mats in today’s new colors is another low-cost way to make a room more exciting.
On Thursday, I’ll talk with you about some common mistakes people make with their home offices. After talking with Nathan and Alan, I know I’m guilty. In today’s world, even those who don’t work at home need a place to set up at least one computer! Talk with you then.
Deborah
A.k.a. Design Sleuth
Tags: accessories, bar stools, design on a budget, interior decorating, interior design