August 14, 2022
"Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist." - Pablo Picasso
When you think of creativity, rules probably aren’t the first thing that come to mind. But in art, as in life, there are certain rules that point us in the right direction and give us a better chance for success; interior design is no exception. The following are guidelines for some of the most common stumbling blocks I see, those tricky little design conundrums you shouldn't need a degree to master.
Pro Tip: Don’t let the tallest person in your home hang the art (or if you do, have them read this first).
Hands down, the most common mistake I see relates to the hanging of art and believe me when I say it is almost never too low. Wall art is incredibly impactful
Pro Tip: You likely need a larger rug.
Our next set of guidelines addresses rug size. The second most common mistake I see in homes is using a rug that is too small for a space. I get it, rugs aren’t cheap, they’re an investment. But most living rooms need at least an 8’0 x 10’0 if not a 9’0 x 12’0 size rug. Our living spaces have gotten bigger and more open meaning that smaller rugs can often end up looking like a postage stamp. The goal of an area rug is to ground a space by pulling all the elements together and adding a bit of softness underfoot. Because there’s a lot riding on it in terms of cost and overall cohesiveness, it’s important to get rug size right.
Pro Tip: Your coffee table shouldn’t float in the middle of your living room (unless the middle of your living room is 12-18” from your sofa).
Consider how you use your living room. Do you like to snack while watching tv (or are you a monster)? Do you enjoy entertaining friends? How do you move within the space? There are certain dimensions that apply to the spaces in your home and the placement of objects within it that ensure it can be navigated in a way that won’t have you stubbing your toe, spilling your snack or yelling to be heard.
There you have it! A few of the most common decorating stumbling blocks made easier. Is there something you’re struggling with? If so, leave it in the comments below and I’ll compile another set of rules for a later post!
December 11, 2022
October 16, 2022
September 11, 2022
"Don’t you love Okotoks in the Fall? Makes me want to watch You’ve Got Mail."
Well, I guess if I’m being completely honest, I always want to watch You’ve Got Mail, but the urge is especially strong at the first hint of Fall. In a lot of ways, I’m not typically nostalgic when it comes to the 90’s. I’m not eager to revisit my grunge phase, but I do have a special place in my heart when it comes to 90’s interior and set design. Enter You’ve Got Mail and, more specifically, Meg Ryan’s apartment.