This year has been traumatic for all of us as we learn, not just how to cope with COVID19, but also how to live a different lifestyle. People worldwide have been confined to their homes and the mental trauma has caused both physical and psychological damage. We are anxious and stressed.

However, during 2020 we have also found new passions, made new friends and been entertained through television and social media. People have shown themselves to be creative and gifted, passing on their skills whether it be learning to cook, playing an instrument or being crafty – there has been an excess of things to do on lockdown.

With winter approaching, the one place where you’re going to be confined is probably the very place you want to escape – your home.  Americans with pre-existing conditions have been locked down for months and frustration is high so how can this be alleviated? Here are a few changes that can make a big difference to the morale of you and your family.

Furniture Placement

It’s amazing how moving furniture around a room can elevate your mood. Pull armchairs closer to the fire, move art to a different wall, or use your creativity to re-purpose the whole space. You don’t always need to purchase new furniture so apart from the thoughtful new layout, you can also feel good because you’re not spending money!

A Private Space

Create a special place for yourself to unwind, read a book or just look out the window. A small desk in an alcove or a comfortable chair in a corner with good light are both ways to use furniture placement to create a small space to call your own.

Kid’s Rooms

Children have been particularly affected by COVID19 losing one-on-one interactions with friends, family and teachers. To perk up your child (whatever their age) get them to help you declutter their space, add new paint and change out the bedding. Explain the benefits if teens push back against change.

Full Confinement

Do you have family or friends who have to be extra careful of their health? They may be stuck at home for months but there are ways to reach out. One example is to send them a framed photo to remind them they are in your thoughts. If you know their decorating style, purchase and ship them some pillows or a new throw.

Paint

If your space doesn’t allow you to move the furniture around, then paint a dramatic accent wall or the whole room. Paint can change the ambience entirely letting you imagine yourself in a different place! Local paint stores offer curbside delivery, some will deliver to your door and you can order paint swatches online.

Drapery Panels

If you only have blinds on your windows, splurge for some beautiful drapery. This could be simple side panels blending into the walls, or choose a fabric with pattern and color. Add drama, keep out winter chills and create a sanctuary.  Draperies bring a room to life, completing your décor and adding style. Talk to your decorator about drapes for your home.

Art & Accessories

Purchasing a piece of art can be therapy in itself because you are naturally drawn to your own aesthetic. It could be a large piece for over a bed or sofa, or a small piece to sit on an office shelf. A large mirror is a cheerful piece that will reflect light, adding natural cheer. Buy new pillows for the sofa in cheery colors to suit the décor or for the coming holiday season. Talking of which…

Holiday Decorating

If you do nothing else, it’s almost time to decorate your home for the Holidays! It’s only October, but as soon as Halloween is packed away on November 1 wouldn’t it be a cheery thought to fill your home inside and out with your favorite decorations and seasonal color. The additional holiday lighting is also bound to give cheer, along with pillows and throws to match the season.

If making choices for paint colors, drapery and bedding is stressful for you, call your decorator for some collaboration. In this stressful time, isn’t it nice to have some ideas where you can take control, improving your home and your wellbeing? Let’s head towards the holidays with joy, knowing that a new year is approaching.

This blog was written for my clients at Decorating Den Interiors.

As interior designers, working remotely isn’t a new thing. There are plenty of occasions when we work via video conferencing, email and text. Clients may have a vacation home, while some have several homes in different States or even countries! Another example is when we work from blueprints and use our fertile imaginations for those clients building a new home and want to make their décor purchases prior to move-in. In all these examples the designer is working without actually being in the home they are decorating.

In this unprecedented time when the majority of us are staying in place and working from home, you might think that your decorating project has to be put on hold. At a time when your home is so important, sprucing it up or starting a complete makeover is just what you need to keep your spirits up. There is plenty that can be done from the comfort and safety of your own home. This blog lets you know what you can expect when working remotely.

Find a designer who has a virtual design process
Call your designer and ask if they can work on your project with video conferencing and remote design presentations. Milestones to discuss will be:

• Initial consultation
• Design Presentations
• Viewing fabric/rug samples
• Installation of furniture, soft furnishings and décor items

First steps
The initial phone call or video chat gives you the opportunity to discuss the important aspects of your project:

• Design objectives
• Style and color
• Functionality
• Any limitations or constraints
• How you live in your home
• Budget

Your first communication with the designer should allow you to assess whether you would like to move forward. This is a relationship built on trust and will become a true partnership as you and the designer work on your home.

Learn your design style
If you haven’t worked with an interior designer before you may feel a little apprehensive. There is no need to be. Your designer understands the process and will lead you through it, from initial selections to the final reveal.

If you are unsure about a style for your home, finding inspirational images is a great start and will help both you and the designer. Your interior designer will want to know specific things you like about the images: color palette, décor style, architectural elements, furniture choices, and functionality. Whether you prefer a more traditional style, a farmhouse vibe or a contemporary space, knowing how to discuss your style will make for more productive conversations with your interior designer.

Along with style, think about your lifestyle too. Are you casual or formal? Do you prefer rustic or polished finishes? What colors do you gravitate to? Which metallic finishes do you prefer? If you are unsure, your designer will help you narrow down the choices by finding out what you don’t like!

Floor plans and photographs
To get started on your interior design project the interior designer needs to see the space and get dimensions for furniture placement and traffic. If you have blueprints or floorplans of your home this step will be easy. If not, your designer can help you draw a rough floorplan and take accurate measurements. The floorplan should include any doors and windows, and show which way they open.

Just as important will be taking a video or multiple photographs to give a clear image of what the space looks like. We recommend taking photographs from all four corners, separate photos of windows, and any furniture pieces you may want to keep. Take the photos during the day when the room has the most light. Make note of any problem areas such as harsh sun on rugs and furniture, or issues with traffic patterns.

Relax and enjoy the journey
Once you’ve done your part and the designer has the information they need, it’s time to enjoy the process. You will be taken through the remainder of the design process until reaching your goal of a beautifully transformed space that you will love.

Written for Decorating Den Interiors.